bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy Using Three Fractions for Isolated Lung Recurrence from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kim Mi-Sook , Yoo Sung Yul , Cho Chul Koo , Yoo Hyung Jun , Choi Chul Won , Seo Young Seok , Kang Jin Kyu , Lee Dong Han , Hwang Dae Yong , Moon Sun Mi , Kim Min Suk , Kang Hye Jin , Kim Young Han
Published: February 2009

Objective: To determine the feasibility of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) using 3 fractions for isolated colorectal lung metastases. Methods: From June 2003 to December 2006, 13 cases of isolated pulmonary metastasis from colorectal cancer were treated by SBRT due to an inoperable state (7 patients), or the patient’s refusal to undergo surgical excision (6 patients). All patients underwent chemotherapy for salvage treatment. SBRT doses ranged from 39 to 51 Gy in 3 fractions. Nine patients had a solitary lesion, 3 patients had 2 lesions, and 1 patient had 3 lesions. Median tumor volume for the 18 lesions was 5.9 ml (range 1.6–45 ml). Results: Follow-up duration was 15–57 months. Three-year overall survival, local control and progression-free survival rates were 64.7, 52.7 and 11.5%, respectively.Univariate analysis showed that total internal target volume was a significant prognostic factor for local control. During the follow-up, 11 of the 13 patients experienced local recurrence, distant metastasis or both. The most frequent site of failure was in a nontargeted lung region. No severe complication was attributed to SBRT. Conclusion: Our study suggests the potential feasibility of SBRT for selected patients with 1–3 small metastatic nodules. A further larger-scale study is required to define the indications for SBRT in cases with isolated pulmonary metastasis from colorectal cancer.
Cranial Prophylactic Irradiation in Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Topkan Erkan , Yildirim Berna Akkus , Selek Ugur , Yavuz Melek Nur
Published: February 2009

As a result of improved local and regional control with aggressive multimodality protocols, the brain has become one of the major sites of relapse in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung carcinoma (LA-NSCLC). The demonstrated efficacy of prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) in small-cell lung carcinoma led to studies of its effectiveness in LA-NSCLC, which indicated that PCI also has a high potential to reduce the incidence or delay the occurrence of brain metastases in this patient group. This report provides an extensive review of the current evidence from nonrandomized and randomized trials regarding the use of PCI in LA-NSCLC and discusses related key issues including risk factors, patient selection criteria, timing of PCI, preferred PCI dosing scheme, toxicity profile and potential novel PCI techniques.
Sensitivity to Change and Predictive Validity of the MOODS-SR Questionnaire, Last-Month Version
Authors: Miniati Mario , Rucci Paola , Frank Ellen , Oppo Annalisa , Kupfer David J. , Fagiolini Andrea , Cassano Giovanni B.
Published: February 2009

Background: Instruments that are intended to measure change over time need to emphasize sensitivity to change as a central property. The aims of this report are to test whether the MOODS-SR, a measure of mood spectrum symptomatology, is sensitive to changes during acute and continuation treatment of depression and whether residual mood spectrum symptoms predict relapse in the subsequent 6 months. Methods: The study sample includes 316 patients with nonpsychotic depression participating in the protocol ‘Depression: the search for treatment-relevant phenotypes’. Patients were initially randomized to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or interpersonal psychotherapy and then treated for 9 months using an algorithm-based protocol. Measures of mood symptomatology included the self-report version of the structured clinical interview for mood spectrum (MOODS-SR), the Quick Inventory for Depressive Symptomatology and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. Results: Repeated-measures ANOVA indicates that during the acute phase MOODS scores decrease significantly from baseline to weeks 6 and 12. This decrease was significantly different (p < 0.001) between those who remitted and those who did not remit on the depressive, the rhythmicity component and the total score. Nonrelapsing subjects had stable scores across the continuation phase, while among relapsing subjects, a significant increase was found in the depressive component (p < 0.001), the rhythmicity component (p = 0.024) and the total score (p < 0.001), at 2 months, followed by a decrease from 2 to 6 months. Scores on the depressive component at the entry into continuation predicted relapse in the subsequent 6 months. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the MOODS-SR is sensitive to change in depression status and may help the clinician to detect symptoms and signs not considered by established symptom severity scales.
Treatment of Nail Psoriasis with a Two-Compound Formulation of Calcipotriol plus Betamethasone Dipropionate Ointment
Authors: Rigopoulos D. , Gregoriou S. , Daniel, III C.R. , Belyayeva H. , Larios G. , Verra P. , Stamou C. , Kontochristopoulos G. , Avgerinou G. , Katsambas A.
Published: February 2009

Background: Treatment of nail psoriasis remains a challenge. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of a two-compound product of calcipotriol plus betamethasone dipropionate ointment on nail psoriasis in an open-label study. Methods: Twenty-five psoriatic patients with nail involvement and mild cutaneous psoriasis were instructed to apply a calcipotriol-betamethasone valerate ointment formulation once daily for 12 weeks on affected nails. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and at weeks 4, 8 and 12 using the nail psoriasis severity index (NAPSI). Results: Twenty-two patients having 114 nails involved at baseline with a mean NAPSI of 5.8 ± 1.7 were followed up for 12 weeks. The mean NAPSI at the end of the treatment period was reduced to 1.6 ± 0.6 presenting a 72% improvement. Significant improvement was observed for hyperkeratosis and onycholysis (reduction of mean hyperkeratosis NAPSI from 2.2 ± 0.5 to 0.5 ± 0.1 and mean onycholysis NAPSI from 2.0 ± 0.6 to 0.4 ± 0.2), moderate improvement for oil drops (reduction of mean oil drop NAPSI from 1.2 ± 0.4 to 0.8 ± 0.3) and slight improvement for pitting (reduction of mean pitting NAPSI from 0.8 ± 0.2 to 0.6 ± 0.2). Conclusions: The calcipotriol plus betamethasone dipropionate two-compound ointment, applied once daily for 12 weeks, was shown to improve nail psoriasis.
Differential FGF Ligands and FGF Receptors Expression Pattern in Frontal and Parietal Calvarial Bones
Authors: Quarto Natalina , Behr Björn , Li Shuli , Longaker Michael T.
Published: February 2009

The mammalian skull vault consists mainly of 5 flat bones, the paired frontals and parietals, and the unpaired interparietal. All of these bones are formed by intramembranous ossification within a layer of mesenchyme, the skeletogenic membrane, located between the dermal mesenchyme and the meninges surrounding the brain. While the frontal bones are of neural crest in origin, the parietal bones arise from mesoderm. The present study is a characterization of frontal and parietal bones at their molecular level, aiming to highlight distinct differences between the neural crest-derived frontal and mesodermal-derived parietal bone. We performed a detailed comparative gene expression profile of FGF ligands and their receptors known to play crucial role in skeletogenesis. This analysis revealed that a differential expression pattern of the major FGF osteogenic molecules and their receptors exists between the neural crest-derived frontal bone and the paraxial mesoderm-derived parietal bone. Particularly, the expression of ligands such as Fgf-2, Fgf-9 and Fgf-18 was upregulated in frontal bone on embryonic day 17.5, postnatal day 1 and postnatal day 60 mice. Frontal bone also elaborated higher levels of Fgf receptor 1, 2 and 3 transcripts versus parietal bone. Taken together, these data suggest that the frontal bone is a domain with higher FGF-signaling competence than parietal bone.
Comparison of activated clotting times obtained using Hemochron and Medtronic analysers in patients receiving anti-thrombin therapy during cardiac catheterisation
Authors: Chia Stanley , Van Cott Elizabeth M. , Raffel Christopher O. , Jang Ik-Kyung
Published: February 2009

Accurate monitoring of anti-thrombin therapy with activated clotting time (ACT) is important to prevent thrombotic and haemorrhagic complications during cardiac catheterisation. Significant variability in ACT tests exists when different analysers are used. Our objective was to compare ACT results obtained using Hemochron→ and Medtronic ACT PLUS→ devices and anti-Xa activity in patients undergoing cardiac catheterisation. Thirty-two patients who received unfractionated heparin or argatroban therapy during cardiac catheterisation were enrolled. Blood sampling was performed to determine ACT values using Hemochron and Medtronic (with high-range cartridges) devices in all patients (n=130 pairs), and anti-Xa activity following heparin administration. In the heparin group, ACT tests (n=95 pairs) showed very good correlation (r=0.84, y=1.31x–0.81; p<0.001). However, Hemochron values were consistently higher and the difference more pronounced with increasing ACT (for ACT>150 sec, mean difference 65 ± 48 sec; p<0.001). Both Hemochron and Medtronic ACT tests correlated well with plasma anti-Xa levels (r=0.85, r=0.81, respectively; p<0.001); Hemochron ACT>300 sec corresponded to anti-Xa>1.48 IU/ml. With concomitant eptifibatide therapy, the divergence in ACT was greater compared to heparin alone. In the argatroban group, ACT tests (n=35 pairs) demonstrated excellent correlation (r=0.94, y=0.61x+79.9; p<0.001). In contrast to the heparin group, ACT values were higher with Medtronic compared to Hemochron. Therefore, despite good correlation between Hemochron and Medtronic ACT results, and strong association with anti-Xa activity, Medtronic ACT values were consistently lower compared to Hemochron following heparin anticoagulation. Paradoxically, Medtronic ACT results were higher after argatroban therapy. Understanding this discrepancy is crucial when using ACT to guide invasive cardiac procedures.
Genetic Variations in Nitric Oxide Synthase 1 Adaptor Protein Are Associated With Sudden Cardiac Death in US White Community-Based Populations
Authors: Kao W.H. Linda , Arking Dan E. , Post Wendy , Rea Thomas D. , Sotoodehnia Nona , Prineas Ronald J. , Bishe Bryan , Doan Betty Q. , Boerwinkle Eric , Psaty Bruce M. , Tomaselli Gordon F. , Coresh Josef , Siscovick David S. , Marbán Eduardo , Spooner Peter M. , Burke Gregory L. , Chakravarti Aravinda
Published: February 2009

Background—

The ECG QT interval is associated with risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). A previous genome-wide association study demonstrated that allelic variants (rs10494366 and rs4657139) in the nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein (
NOS1AP
), which encodes a carboxy-terminal PDZ ligand of neuronal nitric oxide synthase, are associated with the QT interval in white adults. The present analysis was conducted to validate the association between
NOS1AP
variants and the QT interval and to examine the association with SCD in a combined population of 19 295 black and white adults from the Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities Study and the Cardiovascular Health Study.

Methods and Results—

We examined 19 tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the genomic blocks containing rs10494366 and rs4657139 in
NOS1AP
. SCD was defined as a sudden pulseless condition of cardiac origin in a previously stable individual. General linear models and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used. Multiple single-nucleotide polymorphisms in
NOS1AP
, including rs10494366, rs4657139, and rs16847548, were significantly associated with adjusted QT interval in whites (
P
<0.0001). In whites, after adjustment for age, sex, and study, the relative hazard of SCD associated with each C allele at rs16847548 was 1.31 (95% confidence interval 1.10 to 1.56,
P
=0.002), assuming an additive model. In addition, a downstream neighboring single-nucleotide polymorphism, rs12567209, which was not correlated with rs16847548 or QT interval, was also independently associated with SCD in whites (relative hazard 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.39 to 0.83,
P
=0.003). Adjustment for QT interval and coronary heart disease risk factors attenuated but did not eliminate the association between rs16847548 and SCD, and such adjustment had no effect on the association between rs12567209 and SCD. No significant associations between tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms in
NOS1AP
and either QT interval or SCD were observed in blacks.

Conclusions—

In a combined analysis of 2 population-based prospective cohort studies, sequence variations in
NOS1AP
were associated with baseline QT interval and the risk of SCD in white US adults.
Effects of the Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator Raloxifene on Coronary Outcomes in The Raloxifene Use for the Heart Trial
Authors: Collins Peter , Mosca Lori , Geiger Mary Jane , Grady Deborah , Kornitzer Marcel , Amewou-Atisso Messan G. , Effron Mark B. , Dowsett Sherie A. , Barrett-Connor Elizabeth , Wenger Nanette K.
Published: February 2009

Background—

The Raloxifene Use for The Heart (RUTH) trial showed that raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, had no overall effect on the incidence of coronary events in women with established coronary heart disease or coronary heart disease risk factors. We provide detailed results of the effect of raloxifene on coronary outcomes over time and for 24 subgroups (17 predefined, 7 post hoc).

Methods and Results—

Postmenopausal women (n=10 101; mean age, 67 years) were randomized to raloxifene 60 mg/d or placebo for a median of 5.6 years. Coronary outcomes were assessed by treatment group in women with coronary heart disease risk factors and those with established coronary heart disease. Raloxifene had no effect on the incidence of coronary events in any subgroup except in the case of a post hoc age subgroup analysis using age categories defined in the Women’s Health Initiative randomized trials. The effect of raloxifene on the incidence of coronary events differed significantly by age (interaction
P
=0.0118). The incidence of coronary events in women <60 years of age was significantly lower in those assigned raloxifene (50 events) compared with placebo (84 events; hazard ratio, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.41 to 0.83;
P
=0.003; absolute risk reduction, 36 per 1000 women treated for 1 year). No difference was found between treatment groups in the incidence of coronary events in women ≥60 and <70 or ≥70 years of age.

Conclusions—

In postmenopausal women at increased risk of coronary events, the overall lack of benefit of raloxifene was similar across the prespecified subgroups.
Isoforms and Functions of NAD(P)H Oxidase at the Macula Densa
Authors: Zhang Rui , Harding Pamela , Garvin Jeffrey L. , Juncos Ramiro , Peterson Ed , Juncos Luis A. , Liu Ruisheng
Published: February 2009

Macula densa cells produce superoxide (O
2
−
) during tubuloglomerular feedback primarily via NAD(P)H oxidase (NOX). The purpose of the present study was to determine NOXs expressed by the macula densa and the role of each one in NaCl-induced O
2
−
production. To identify which isoforms are expressed, we applied single-cell RT-PCR to macula densa cells isolated by laser capture microdissection and to MMDD1 cells (a macula densa-like cell line). The captured cells expressed neuronal NOS (marker of macula densa), NOX2, and NOX4 but not NOX1. Expression of the NOXs and neuronal NOS was essentially identical in the MMDD1 cells. Thus, we used MMDD1 cells to investigate which isoform is responsible for NaCl-induced O
2
−
production. We used small-interfering RNA to knock down NOX2 or NOX4 in MMDD1 cells and measured O
2
−
exposed to low-salt solution (LS; 70 mmol/L of NaCl) or high-salt solution (HS; 140 mmol/L of NaCl). Exposing control cells (scrambled small-interfering RNA) to HS increased O
2
−
concentrations from 0.75±0.28 to 1.48±0.46 U/min per 10
5
cells in LS and HS, respectively (
P
<0.001). Inhibiting NOX2 blocked the HS-induced increase in O
2
−
(0.62±0.39 versus 0.76±0.31 U/min per 10
5
cells in LS and HS groups, respectively). Blocking NOX4 did not affect HS-induced O
2
−
levels. O
2
−
levels in the control cells during LS and HS were 0.80±0.30 and 1.56±0.49 U/min per 10
5
cells, respectively (
P
<0.001); whereas O
2
−
levels in NOX4-small-interfering RNA–treated cells during LS and HS were 0.40±0.25 and 1.26±0.51 U/min per 10
5
cells, respectively (
P
<0.001). We conclude that, whereas macula densa cells express the NOX2 and NOX4 isoforms, NOX2 is primarily responsible for NaCl-induced O
2
−
generation.
Effects of Woven Fabric Construction and Color on Ultraviolet Protection
Authors: Polona Dobnik Dubrovski  , Golob Darko
Published: February 2009

This paper presents the effects of woven fabric construction and color on the ultraviolet protection factor. Weave type, fabric tightness, cover factor, volume porosity and color of lightweight summer woven fabrics were observed in this research. Color had the biggest influence on the ultraviolet protection factor of fabrics, whereas woven fabric construction was essential when light pastel colored fabrics were used as ultraviolet protection. This work provides guidelines for engineering woven cotton fabrics with sufficient ultraviolet protection.
Evaluation of Surfactant Detergency using Statistical Analysis
Authors: Ilec Eva , Simončič Barbara , Hladnik Aleš
Published: February 2009

In this article the use of statistical analysis to determine the efficiency of surfactants as washing agents is presented. Two types of surfactants of different ion activities, three different types of fabrics, and four different types of soil — tea, coffee, red wine, and charcoal — were used for this research. The application of soil to fabric samples was carried out with the pad-dry method. The washing of all the soiled samples was carried out in a Launder-Ometer using the standard method at two temperatures, 40 and 60°C. A colorimetric evaluation according to a CIELAB system was used for all the samples, where the Δ E* values between the washed and unwashed samples, as well as between the washed and unsoiled samples, represent the criteria for the soil removal efficiency. A multi-factorial analysis of variance was used to explain the effects of the surfactant ionic activity, the fabric type, and the soil type on the efficiency of the surfactants as detergents. The results revealed that the efficiency of both studied anionic and non-ionic surfactants are similar when removing the tea, coffee, or wine soils, but when removing the charcoal soil the non-ionic surfactant proved to be more efficient. The surfactant detergency was not significantly improved when the temperature was increased from 40 to 60°C.
Effect of Solvent Exposure on the Filtration Performance of Electrostatically Charged Polypropylene Filter Media
Authors: Kim Jooyoun , Hinestroza Juan P. , Jasper Warren , Barker R.L.
Published: February 2009

Solvent-induced performance deterioration in corona charged polypropylene electret filter media was studied. Electret media, exposed to isopropanol (IPA) in the liquid phase, exhibited reduced filtration efficiency with negligible changes in the pressure drop across the media. Scanning electron microscopy imaging indicated no observable morphological changes after IPA exposure. Solvent-induced efficiency deterioration of electret filter media was hypothesized to originate from charge deterioration rather than charge masking. The charge of the individual fibers in filter media was characterized using electrostatic force microscopy (EFM). EFM investigation produced evidence that exposure to IPA in the liquid phase affected the electrostatic charges on fibers. Exposure to organic solvents such as xylene, toluene, and ethyl benzene has been reported to increase charge mobility in polypropylene fibers, thereby reducing the electrostatic charge and the ability of the fibers in the electret filter media to capture particulates.
Evaluation of Dye Sorption of Reinforced Zeolite Esparto Fiber
Authors: Ben Marzoug I. , Sakli F. , Roudesli S.
Published: February 2009

Rising concern about environmental issues has promoted the textile industry to investigate appropriate environmentally friendly treatment technology. Effluent aqueous waste containing dye compounds causes serious problems. Removal of dyes from the dye-containing effluents is currently based on a wide variety of physicochemical processes. The search for alternative and innovative wastewater treatment techniques has focussed on the use of biological materials. Activated carbon, zeolite and diatomite have been used as efficient methods for adsorption. For the first time, this paper reports on the use of reinforced zeolite esparto fiber as a cheaper alternative for the removal and absorbency of reactive dyes from aqueous solution. Reinforced zeolite esparto fibers were synthesized from cellulose esparto fibers pretreated with NaOH and preformed zeolite powders. Deposition of zeolite onto esparto fiber was made at fixed conditions of treatment and drying. Several techniques, such as infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, were used to characterize these materials. The obtained materials were treated with solution of reactive dyes in different conditions to evaluate their sorption capacities. This uptake from aqueous solution was found to be influenced by pH of the solution, temperature, salt quantity and initial dye concentration. Sorption of reinforced zeolite cellulosic esparto fibers increased as the initial dye concentration increased in the solution. Maximum absorption capacity for reinforced zeolite esparto fiber at equilibrium was evaluated with variation of pH, temperature and salts quantities. Equilibrium data fitted very well to the Langmuir model in the studied concentrations. The sorption data were found to follow the second-order kinetic model with r2 of 0.97.
The Logic of Random Selection
Authors: Stone Peter
Published: February 2009

This essay lays out the common reasoning underlying a diversity of arguments for decision making using lotteries. This reasoning appeals to the sanitizing effects of ignorance. Lotteries ensure that bad reasons are unable to affect a decision. (They also ensure that good reasons have no effect as well, which is why care must be applied in deciding to use them.) All arguments for or against the use of a lottery to make a particular decision will thus appeal to the same property that lotteries possess. This fact is compatible with continued vigorous disagreement about whether particular decisions should be made by lot. Such disagreements, however, will focus on the nature of the circumstances surrounding the decision. People can thus agree that a given set of circumstances calls for the use of a lottery even as they disagree over whether those circumstances hold.
Type 2 Diabetes in Urban Black and Rural White Women
Authors: D'Eramo Melkus Gail , Whittemore Robin , Mitchell Jessica
Published: February 2009

Purpose The purpose of this secondary analysis was to describe and compare physiological, psychosocial, and self-management characteristics of urban black and rural white women with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the northeast United States.

Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional secondary analysis was conducted with baseline data from 2 independent study samples: rural white women and urban black women.

Results Results revealed the sample were on average educated, working, low-income, mid-life women with poor glycemic and blood pressure control, despite having a usual source of primary care. When compared, black women were younger, had lower income levels, worked more, and were often single and/or divorced. They had worse glycemic control, significantly higher levels of diabetes-related emotional distress, and less support than white women.

Conclusion Despite differences in geography and study findings, both groups had suboptimal physiological and psychosocial levels that impede self-management. These findings serve to aid in the understanding of health disparities, emphasizing the importance of developing and evaluating effective interventions of diabetes care for women with T2D.
Mothers' Perspectives About Reproductive Health Discussions With Adolescent Daughters With Diabetes
Authors: Hannan Margaret , Happ Mary Beth , Charron-Prochownik Denise
Published: February 2009

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore mothers' perspectives about reproductive health (RH) discussions with their adolescent daughters with diabetes.

Methods This study of mothers used a sequential explanatory mixed-method design with 2 phases. Phase 2, the focus of this report, was a qualitative descriptive study using open-ended semistructured telephone interviews. Ten mothers from a larger study sample were selected by purposeful sampling. Qualitative content analysis techniques were used to analyze the interview transcripts.

Results The following 4 themes describing mothers' perspectives about RH discussions with their adolescent daughters with diabetes were identified: (1) maternal awareness, (2) maternal knowledge, (3) triggers for initiating RH discussions, and (4) maternal fears/concerns. Several mothers were aware of their daughters' sexual activity and were aware that their daughters should preplan a pregnancy. They knew that an unplanned pregnancy may have detrimental effects on their daughters' health and feared that their daughters would have an unplanned pregnancy. A major trigger for mothers to initiate RH discussions was when a daughter had a steady boyfriend. Mothers' fears and concerns were focused around their daughters' having an unplanned pregnancy. Overall, mothers reported they were not comfortable with RH conversations.

Conclusions Mothers fear unplanned pregnancies for their daughters with diabetes and want to discuss RH issues with them but are uncomfortable doing so. Diabetes educators could be instrumental in educating and providing communication skills to mothers to help foster RH communication with their adolescent daughters with diabetes.
NK1(TACR1) receptor gene ‘knockout’ mouse phenotype predicts genetic association with ADHD
Authors: Yan TC , McQuillin A. , Thapar A. , Asherson P. , Hunt SP , Stanford SC , Gurling H.
Published: February 2009

Mice with functional genetic ablation of the Tacr1 (substance P-preferring receptor) gene (NK1R−/−) are hyperactive. Here, we investigated whether this is mimicked by NK1R antagonism and whether dopaminergic transmission is disrupted in brain regions that govern motor performance. The locomotor activity of NK1R−/− and wild-type mice was compared after treatment with an NK1R antagonist and/or psychostimulant (d-amphetamine or methylphenidate). The inactivation of NK1R (by gene mutation or receptor antagonism) induced hyperactivity in mice, which was prevented by both psychostimulants. Using in vivo microdialysis, we then compared the regulation of extracellular dopamine in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and striatum in the two genotypes. A lack of functional NK1R reduced (>50%) spontaneous dopamine efflux in the prefrontal cortex and abolished the striatal dopamine response to d-amphetamine. These behavioural and neurochemical abnormalities in NK1R−/− mice, together with their atypical response to psychostimulants, echo attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in humans. These findings prompted genetic studies on the TACR1 gene (the human equivalent of NK1R) in ADHD patients in a case—control study of 450 ADHD patients and 600 screened supernormal controls. Four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs3771829, rs3771833, rs3771856, and rs1701137) at the TACR1 gene, previously known to be associated with bipolar disorder or alcoholism, were strongly associated with ADHD. In conclusion, our proposal that NK1R−/− mice offer a mouse model of ADHD was borne out by our human studies, which suggest that DNA sequence changes in and around the TACR1 gene increase susceptibility to this disorder.
A Review on the Dynamic Control of Parallel Kinematic Machines: Theory and Experiments
Authors: Paccot Flavien , Andreff Nicolas , Martinet Philippe
Published: February 2009

In this article, we review the dynamic control of parallel kinematic machines. It is shown that the classical control strategies from serial robotics generally used for parallel kinematic machine have to be rethought. Indeed, it is first shown that the joint space control is not relevant for these mechanisms for several reasons such as mechanical behavior or computational efficiency. Consequently, Cartesian space control should be preferred over joint space control. Nevertheless, some modifications to the well-known Cartesian space control strategies of serial robotics are proposed to make them perfectly suited to parallel kinematic machines, particularly a solution using an exteroceptive measure of the end-effector pose. The expected improvement in terms of accuracy, stability and robustness are discussed. A comparison between the main presented strategies is finally performed both in simulation and experiments.
`My Father is King': Chiefly Politics and the Rise and Fall of Abimelech *
Authors: Heffelfinger Katie M.
Published: February 2009

This study argues that the `complex secondary chieftainship' model recently articulated by Robert D. Miller offers explanatory power for understanding several inconsistencies in the Abimelech narrative of Judges 8 and 9. The `complex secondary chieftainship' model is briefly sketched and applied to four logical gaps in Abimelech's story. These gaps are (1) the contradiction between Gideon's refusal of hereditary kingship and the assumption by all of the characters that one of Gideon's sons would rule after him, (2) the appeal Abimelech makes to the best interests of the lords of Shechem, (3) the story's treatment of the raiding done by the lords of Shechem as a personal offense against Abimelech, and (4) the reason for Abimelech's unmotivated attack on Thebez.
Did Job Suffer for Nothing? The Ethics of Piety, Presumption and the Reception of Disaster in the Prologue of Job
Authors: Ngwa Kenneth
Published: February 2009

This study argues that the statement about Job suffering for nothing (2.3; cf. 9.17) is not peripheral to the story of Job. When Job begins to suffer, the Satan's theoretical question `Does Job fear God for nothing?' (1.9) is reframed by Yahweh's evaluative statement: `You incited me against him to swallow him for nothing' (2.3). Job's suffering is not random; rather, it is well thought out, executed, and evaluated. In response, Job raises the issue about the reception of suffering/disaster (2.10). The Prologue explores the reality of suffering/disaster through the tripartite lens of the causal theory of suffering, the reality of suffering, and the `reception' theory of suffering. Because systematic and systemic suffering strikes at the moral, existential, and social core of humanity and divinity, it often becomes the most powerful critique of its own causal, existential, and reception theories, regardless of whether such theories are of divine or human origin.
Impact of plot length on the effectiveness of different soil-surface covers in reducing runoff and soil loss by water
Authors: Smets T. , Poesen J. , Bochet E.
Published: February 2009

Covering the soil surface by rock fragments, organic mulches or vegetation is often done to reduce runoff and soil loss by water erosion compared to a bare soil treatment. The runoff or erosion-reducing effectiveness of these soil surface covers has been investigated for a range of plot lengths under different environmental conditions. Recent research indicates that the effectiveness of soil surface covers in reducing runoff and soil loss by water erosion may be affected by the size of the laboratory or field plots (ie, spatial scale). Therefore, the main objective of this review is to explore to what extent the impact of plot length on the effectiveness of different surface covers (ie, rock fragments, organic mulch and vegetation) in reducing runoff and soil loss by water erosion emerges from a worldwide data set. Furthermore, it is investigated whether there is a significant difference in runoff or erosion-reducing effectiveness between rock fragments, organic mulches and vegetation. Data from 65 experimental studies, investigating the impact of surface cover by rock fragments, organic mulch or vegetation on runoff or soil loss, are collected and analysed in this review. The results indicate that for plot lengths <11 m there is a large variation in the runoff and erosion-reducing effectiveness of a soil cover, depending on various factors and on the larger number of studies conducted on these plots compared to longer field plots. However, with an increasing plot length (up to 50 m) this variation is reduced and surface covers by rock fragments, organic mulches and vegetation become on average more effective in reducing runoff or soil loss by water erosion. A vegetation cover is significantly more effective in reducing runoff rate compared to a rock fragment cover. No other significant differences in runoff or in erosion-reducing effectiveness between the studied soil surface covers are observed. Finally, two equations are proposed describing the possible effect of plot length and cover by rock fragments, organic mulches and vegetation on relative runoff and soil loss by water erosion. These findings have important consequences for the design of runoff and erosion plots, for modelling runoff and soil erosion rates and for scaling up plot data.
Cost Analysis of Converting from Single-Bundle to Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Brophy Robert H. , Wright Rick W. , Matava Matthew J.
Published: February 2009

Background

Recent studies comparing double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction to single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction have reported some biomechanical advantages but little or no short-term clinical benefit from the double-bundle technique. In the current healthcare environment, the potential economic implications of widespread conversion to a double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction are an important consideration.

Purpose

To determine the economic implications of widespread use of the double-bundle technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Study Design

Economic analysis; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

A cost model to assess the effect of double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction was constructed using standard accounting methodology. The model was based on actual 2008 cost figures (in US dollars) for ligamentous allografts, fixation implants, and operating room time. Revision rate (4%) and time to revision surgery (mean, 4 years) for single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction was based on the available literature. Assumptions about the prevalence of double-bundle versus single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, the number of grafts used, and the revision rate for double-bundle reconstruction were varied to assess their effect on cost.

Results

The potential additional cost for widespread conversion to the double-bundle technique for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction ranges from $36 million to $792 million per year in the United States alone. To offset this increased cost, the double-bundle technique would have to reduce the revision rate at a minimum from 4% to 1.5% and potentially from 24.1% to 0%.

Conclusion

Double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction has the potential of adding considerable cost to the healthcare system.

Clinical Relevance

While further research is warranted to determine if there are other benefits from this technique, widespread adoption of a double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction does not appear to be cost-effective at this time.
Results of Arthroscopic Revision Anterior Shoulder Reconstruction
Authors: Barnes Christopher J. , Getelman Mark H. , Snyder Stephen J.
Published: February 2009

Background

Recurrent instability after surgical stabilization of the shoulder is uncommon. Although results of open revision stabilization procedures have been reported, only 3 studies have evaluated the outcome of arthroscopic revision surgery.

Purpose

To analyze results of arthroscopic revision anterior shoulder reconstruction at the authors’ institution.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Chart review identified 18 shoulders that had arthroscopic revision anterior shoulder reconstruction at the Southern California Orthopedic Institute between November 4, 1997, and May 14, 2002. Anterior reconstruction of the shoulder was performed using suture anchors and nonabsorbable sutures. In most patients, posterior capsular plication was also performed; in 1 patient, closure of the rotator interval was performed. Sixteen shoulders in 15 patients were examined and 1 patient who required revision surgery was interviewed at a mean of 38 months (range, 24-67 months) after arthroscopic revision anterior shoulder reconstruction. The patient population consisted of 13 men and 3 women whose age at surgery was between 17 and 55 years (mean, 30 years; SD, 11.9 years). Patient satisfaction, the Simple Shoulder Test, and the Rowe scale were used to measure outcome.

Results

Prior surgeries included 10 arthroscopic procedures in 9 shoulders and 10 open procedures in 8 shoulders. In this study group, 1 patient dislocated his shoulder 4 months after arthroscopic revision anterior shoulder reconstruction during an altercation and subsequently underwent a Bristow procedure. Of the remaining cases, none of the 16 shoulders had recurrence of dislocation or subluxation; all 15 patients were satisfied with their revision surgeries. Among this group, the Simple Shoulder Test responses improved from 8.3 yes responses to 11.3 after arthroscopic revision anterior shoulder reconstruction (P < .05). Using the Rowe scale, there were 9 excellent, 4 good, and 3 fair results. Mean Rowe score at follow-up was 83.8 (range, 55-100; SD, 14.7) for these 16 shoulders.

Conclusion

In this series, 94% of shoulders were stable after arthroscopic revision anterior shoulder reconstruction, and there were a high number of good and excellent outcomes. Results suggest arthroscopic revision anterior shoulder reconstruction using suture anchors is a viable treatment alternative for patients with failed anterior shoulder reconstructions.
Magnetic susceptibility as an indicator of heavy metal contamination in compost
Authors: Paradelo Remigio , Moldes Ana Belén , Barral María Teresa , Moldes Ana Belén
Published: February 2009

One of the main restrictions to the agronomic use of compost is the excess of heavy metals, which are often present due to inadequate separation of biodegradable fractions from non-degradable or inert materials. Magnetic susceptibility (MS) measurements are a simple technique that has been reported as a useful tool for assessing anthropogenic pollution, especially heavy metal pollution on soil and sediment samples. The close relationship of MS with heavy metal contamination has been proved by combined analyses of chemical and magnetic data. In this study, the MS and total heavy metal concentrations of eight composts from different origins were determined; all composts were passed under a magnet to remove the magnetic material, and total heavy metals were determined again. In our work, high correlations were found between magnetic susceptibility and total Cd, Zn, Pb, Cr and Ni, thus confirming the applicability of MS measurement as a proxy for heavy metal contamination in compost quality assessments. The application of a magnet over the composts reduced the MS as well as the heavy metal content, the reduction of Fe and MS being the most significantly correlated. Thus, the inclusion of an additional magnetic separation step in the post-process compost finishing could be envisaged.
Kaolin processing waste applied in the manufacturing of ceramic tiles and mullite bodies
Authors: Menezes Romualdo R. , Farias Felipe F. , Oliveira Maurício F. , Santana Lisiane N. L. , Neves Gelmires A. , Lira Helio L. , Ferreira Heber C.
Published: February 2009

In the last few years, mineral extraction and processing industries have been identified as sources of environmental contamination and pollution. The kaolin processing industry around the world generates large amounts of waste materials. The present study evaluated the suitability of kaolin processing waste as an alternative source of ceramic raw material for the production of ceramic tiles and dense mullite bodies. Several formulations were prepared and sintered at different temperatures. The sintered samples were characterized to determine their porosity, water absorption, firing shrinkage and mechanical strength. The fired samples were microstructurally analysed by X-ray diffraction. The results indicated that ceramic tile formulations containing up to 60% of waste could be used for the production of tiles with low water absorption (~ 0.5%) and low sintering temperature (1150 °C). Mullite formulations with more than 40% of kaolin waste could be used in the production of bodies with high strength, of about 75 MPa, which can be used as refractory materials.
Stress Resilience Among Border Mexican American Women
Authors: Guinn Bobby , Vincent Vern , Dugas Donna
Published: February 2009

The purpose of this study was to identify factors distinguishing Mexican American women living near the U.S.-Mexican border who are resilient to the experience of stress from those who are not. The study sample consisted of 418 participants ranging in age from 20 to 61 years. Data were gathered through a self-report survey instrument composed of items assessing stress vulnerability, acculturation, health, physical activity, education, and marital status. Descriptive discriminant analysis was used to determine which variables made the greatest contribution in discerning between stress-resistant and stress-susceptible women. The results indicated that higher educational attainment, greater acculturation, better health status, and marriage differentiated between those women reporting themselves resilient to the effects of stress and those reporting being vulnerable. These results have implications for stress resilience promotion among this population group.
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Birth Order
Authors: Berger Itai , Felsenthal-Berger Noorit
Published: February 2009

Birth order is considered one of the most influential environmental factors in child development, affecting cognitive abilities and behavioral traits. This study investigates the effect of birth order in relation to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the most common neuro-behavioral disorder of childhood. The study describes birth order of 598 children aged 6 to 18 years diagnosed due to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The cohort contains relatively large size families because 47.1% of the participants were born in families of more than 4 children. The results show no statistically significant differences in birth order of children among all families. We conclude that the chances of first, middle, or later born children, as well as single children, to suffer from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder are almost equal. This study provides evidence that birth order has no effect in relation to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
A Novel Approach for Repairing of Intestinal Fistula Using chitosan hydrogel
Authors: Rabbani Shahram , Rabbani Abbas , Mohagheghi Mohammad Ali , Mirzadeh Hamid , Amanpour Saeed , Alibakhshi Abbas , Anvari Maryam Sotoudeh , Ghazizadeh Yasser
Published: February 2009

Intestinal fistula is associated with high morbidity and difficult to manage. Many fistulas require surgical treatment, which usually consists of segmental resection. In this study, using a rat model, the effectiveness of chitosan hydrogel as an intestinal fistula repair agent was investigated. Twenty rats underwent laparotomy under general anesthesia. The antimesentric portion of the cecum was incised (1 cm) and sutured to the abdominal wall. Chitosan hydrogel was applied daily to the fistula until it was completely closed. Blood samples taken from all animals were analyzed. After sacrifice, the cecum was removed and histopathologic investigation was performed. Spontaneous closure of the intestinal fistula was observed in all animals for both the control and chitosan hydrogel groups. Healing in the chitosan hydrogel group healing was faster than that in the control group. Blood analysis revealed significant differences between the chitosan hydrogel and control groups with regard to the total protein, albumin, total cholesterol and HDL before the surgery versus that on the day of sacrifice. Pathologic investigation also showed greater healing in the chitosan hydrogel group than the control group. This preliminary study showed the potential of chitosan hydrogel for repair of intestinal fistula. However further studies must be performed before we can approve testing chitosan hydrogel for intestinal fistula repair in humans.
Problems with retrospective studies of the presence of schizophrenia
Authors: Fraguas David , Breathnach C.S.
Published: February 2009

Studies concerning the presence of schizophrenia in the distant past are controversial. Some authors maintain that schizophrenia-like illnesses existed in antiquity, while others argue that this is quite doubtful. Imprecise definition of schizophrenia, imposition of the current concept of schizophrenia onto the past, difficulties in interpreting ancient texts describing schizophrenia-like conditions, and cultural variables involved in the clinical definition of schizophrenia underlie these controversies. This article reviews the methodological issues that arise in such retrospective studies of schizophrenia.
Critical Psychology and Revolutionary Marxism
Authors: Parker Ian
Published: February 2009

This paper addresses the intersection between Marxism and psychology, focusing on `critical' approaches that have emerged in the discipline in the last 15 years. The paper traces the way that elements of Marxism that are diametrically opposed, and in some cases dialectically opposed, to mainstream psychology are evaded, misrepresented or systematically distorted by ostensibly `critical' psychologies in the English-speaking world. Elements of Marxist analysis—the human being as an ensemble of social relations, the materiality of the family, private property and the state, surplus value and cultural capital, alienation and exploitation and ideological mystification—are contrasted with the standard disciplinary notions of the psychological subject, society, utilitarian transparency, unhealthy experience and false beliefs. Specifications of the position of the researcher in Marxism—standpoint, reflexive location, class consciousness, institutional space and social revolution—are set against the dominant notions in mainstream psychology of neutrality, rationalism, individual enlightenment, scientific knowledge and adaptation and amelioration. Change in Marxism—as permanent change, an engagement with relatively enduring structures, theoretical practice, materialist dialectics and prefigurative politics—is pitted against the standard procedures of ratification, pragmatism, empiricism, positivism and the drawing up of blueprints. This analysis of the discipline and its `critical' variants is designed to clear the way for revolutionary Marxist work in and against the domain of psychology.