bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ENHANCED BODY CONSCIOUSNESS TRAINING SYSTEM: A TOOL SERVING THE PROMOTION OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Authors: Kazaki Menia , Malliaropoulos Nikos , Epaminontidis Kostas
Published: June 2013

It is since the mid 80's that exercise and various forms of physical activity have been receiving both gradual interest and growth in the modern world as accumulating data have been demonstrating their relation to the prevention of and rehabilitation from several health conditions. In addition, the concern of establishing health related quality of life in our inactive, disease threatened societies has received great dimensions. Accordingly, the need to disseminate information, increase participation and adherence while avoiding injury as much as possible has become imperative and accurately expressed in the words of R.E. Sallis who stated that we must begin to merge the fitness industry with the health care industry if we are going to improve world health.

E.B.C. is a training system that emerged out of the aforementioned facts and aims at fighting inactivity, promoting safety during exercise and everyday living, relieving stress and pain and thus promoting health in a general, pleiotropic way. E.B.C. is a carefully selected, creative, multidimensional application of the various, known elements that should underpin every exercise/physical activity regimen but are usually not. According to E.B.C. acquiring partial and total body consciousness enhances performance, technique, adaptations, injury prevention, stress management and finally retainability. E.B.C. is designed to precede all various modes of traditional and contemporary exercise but also to safely induce activity after rehabilitation. Through elaborated guidance and instruction the joints of the body are mobilized, realized and manipulated with special attention to movement patterns that exhibit low levels of consciousness and/or adequate problems. Physical execution is always accompanied by information on body construction and function as well as injury prevention. Mental support, continuous assiduity and emotional well-being are also provided. The fields of sports'n'exercise medicine, physiotherapy and health'n'fitness are reflected in the system and are continually supporting, adjusting, progressing and updating it in order to increase its effectiveness upon public health.
RETURN-TO-PLAY CRITERIA AFTER HAMSTRING INJURY: ACTUAL MEDICINE PRACTICE IN PROFESSIONAL SOCCER TEAMS
Authors: Delvaux François , Rochcongar Pierre , Bruyère Olivier , Bourlet Guillaume , Daniel Christophe , Diverse Pierre , Reginster Jean-Yves , Croisier Jean-Louis
Published: June 2013

Background

Return-to-play (RTP) criteria after a sport injury represent a key point in order to decrease the risk of subsequent re-injury.

Objective

To analyze how clinicians decide, in their daily practice, when a hamstring injured professional soccer player is fully able to get back to competitive activities.

Methods

Thirty-seven doctors for French and Belgian professional soccer clubs filled in a questionnaire formulated with multiple choice questions.

Results

Nearly 80% of the questioned doctors declared to use at least 7 criteria in order to assess player's ability to return to competitive soccer after a hamstring injury. The most important ones are: complete pain relief, normalized muscle strength assessment, subjective feeling reported by the player, normalized flexibility and achievement of a specific soccer test. For some of these criteria, most notably muscle strength assessment, there is a lack of consensus about the choice of assessment parameters and the limit value allowing doctors to authorize or forbid RTP. Our study also highlighted the interest for clinicians to consider the opinion of physical therapists and physical trainers.

Conclusion

After a hamstring injury, clinicians for professional soccer clubs assess player's ability to return to full sport according to a “criteria-approach” instead of a “timed-based” approach. However, even if the scientific evidence about this topic is not sufficient at the moment, the implementation, in daily practice, of scientifically demonstrated assessment parameters and limit values should help the RTP decision and decrease the risk of re-injury.
EFFECTS OF VIBRATION TRAINING IN DEGENERATIVE CEREBRAL MICROANGIOPATHY ON MOTOR PERFORMANCE
Authors: Nitzsche Nico , Reinhardt Fritjof
Published: June 2013

Background

The degenerative cerebral microangiopathy (CMA) is a disease penetrating brain arteries with the result of single or multiple acute small subcortical infarcts with or without associated leukoencephalopathy. The consequences are focal neurological deficits, gait and balance disorders, and vascular dementia (de Laat. 2010 & 2012). Previously, stimulus set showed in neurological degenerative diseases due to the high density stimulus positive effects on motor activity (del Pozo Cruzet al2012; Claerboutet al2012). The prevalence in people over 60 years is at 20–30%. The pilot study was to examine the goal of a multi-week vibration training on motor performance of patients.

Methods

Thirty-two patients (72.7±8.5 years, BMI 28.9±4.3 kg/m2) with mild to moderate CMA were studied before and after training on postural control (C1=Condition 1 & C2=Condition 2), isometric trunk strength, hand strength response and quality of life (SF 36). The measurements of postural control were in the upright position on an unstable platform and have a quiet place with disturbance (Haider Posturomed®). The oscillation travel (s) and oscillation velocity (v) (Noraxon® 6g) of the stood plate were observed. The strength of the hull (anterior/posterior) and the hand (Vernier®) were measured isometrically (Dr. Wolf® Back Check). The assessment of gait (30m) was performed using an inertial sensor (Lokometrix®). A thirty meters distance has been covered. Step frequency, stride length, walking speed and symmetry were measured. Training was performed 3 times weekly for 10 weeks on a vibration plate (Galileo®) with sinusoidal oscillations. Static and dynamic exercises were used while standing.

Results

There were completed 23±3.2 training sessions (16.7±4 minutes. 20.5±4.6 Hz. A=4mm). Postural control (C1: sprä=0.66±0.9 m vs. spost=0.33±0.3 m; vprä=4.4±5.6 m/s vs. vpost=2.5±3.9 m/s. C2: speed: vprä=9.1±6.2 m/s; vpost=6.2±3.2 m/s; sprä: 1.0±0.8 m; spost 0.5±0.2 m) improved in both conditions significantly (p<0.01). There were significant increases in isometric trunk strength (ventral: 2.8±1.3 to 3.3±1.4 N/kg; dorsal: 3.4±1.8 to 3.9±2.1 N/kg; p<0.01) and improvements in five of eight items in quality of life (physical function, role function of physical body, general health, social functioning, emotional role; p<0.01). Changes in gait and hand strength were not available (p>0.05).

Discussion

Initial findings by vibration training on motor performance could be gained. Several weeks of vibration training could become a key therapeutic approach for Training CMA present affecting the motor skills disorders positively. Postural control and quality of life appear as signficantly improved values. Often these are important requirements for activation of bodys. The next step should be followed by a randomized trial.
THE EFFECT OF SIX WEEKS TALENT DIAGNOSE SYSTEM (TDS) JUMP TRAINING ON MUSCLE REACTION TIME AFTER SURGICAL RECONSTRUCTION OF THE ACL
Authors: Jin Hong Kim , Jung Sok Oak , Dong Kyu Lee , Byung Roh Kim , Moon Jib Yoo , Joong Bae Seo , Yun-a Shin , Hoseong Lee
Published: June 2013

Background

Neuromuscular training protocols that plyometrics, dynamic balance exercises, agility training, etc, can significantly improve biomechanics and neuromuscular performance and reduce anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk in athletes.1 2

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 6weeks TDS Jump training on muscle reaction time after surgical reconstruction of the ACL.

Methods

Seven patients men 12 to 36 months following reconstructive ACL operation continuously participated TDS Jump training at seven sets of five times (7 sets×5 times=35 jumps), 3 days/week, for 6 weeks. Premotor reaction time (PRT) of vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL), hamstring medialis (HM), and hamstring lateralis (HL) were recorded by electromyography through the examination sudden knee eversion stress. Two physical therapists evaluated each subject's performance ability using a talent diagnose system (TDS Jump).

Results

PRT of all tested muscles were significantly decreased after both three and six weeks of TDS Jump training than at before training (p<.05). Grounding time (TDS Jump) of operated legs was significantly decreased after both three and six weeks of TDS Jump training than at before training (p<.05).

Conclusions

These results demonstrated in the present that TDS Jump training could improve PRT and grounding time in operated legs. Therefore, suggested that TDS Jump training applying in not only an assessment of the neuromuscular function after reconstructive ACL operation but also training and rehabilitation.
CORRECT NUTRITION AND SUPPLEMENTS HAS SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS ON ANAEROBIC POWER AND CAPACITY OF LOWER AND UPPER LIMBS OF ELITE WRESTLERS
Authors: Abbasalipour Masoud
Published: June 2013

Aim

The aim of study was to investigate the influence of correct nutrition, creatine and glutamine supplements on anaerobic power, capacity of upper and lower limbs of the elite wrestlers of Mazandaran province, Iran.

Materials and methods

The samples for this study consisted of 18–27 years old elite wrestlers. The voluntaries were divided into creatine, glutamine, supplement, correct nutrition and control groups. After a usual warm-up exercise for 15 minutes, the participants exercised with a hand and bicycle ergometer with the maximum energy till the point of complete exhaustion and afterwards physical performance tests were carried out. Paired t test was used for measurement of anaerobic power.

Results

As have shown the results the effect of correct nutrition, supplements (creatine and glutamine) on anaerobic power and capacity of lower and upper limbs of elite wrestlers of Mazandaran province, there was practically no need to use a glutamine as a separate supplement cause of its lower efficiency. As about creatine supplement have to say that surely it have a positive effect on the anaerobic power and capacity of upper and lower limbs.

Conclusion

The effect of correct nutrition, supplements (creatine and glutamine) on anaerobic power and capacity of lower and upper limbs of elite wrestlers of Mazandaran province, there is practically no need to use a glutamine as a separate supplement cause of its lower efficiency. As about creatine supplement have to say that surely it have a positive effect on the anaerobic power and capacity of upper and lower limbs, but despite the known fact that diet cannot provide the necessary creatine quantity we prove by our study that depend on type of diet and ingredients quantity and quality it is possible to reach the same results as if we use the supplements itself.
EFFECT OF SELECTED PHYSICAL, TECHNICAL AND MOTOR FITNESS VARIABLES ON THE PREDICTION OF POLE VAULTING PERFORMANCE OF MEN
Authors: Ibrahim S , Kanniyan A
Published: June 2013

The trends in Athletic Performance, skilled techniques, standards and records has drastically transformed with elite athletes reaching levels which are mind blowing. This is the net result of new innovate track equipment, methods and scientific training and coaching. The inherent ability of individuals predominantly differs and has to be channelized for best results. The identification of potentials is combined responsibility of scientists and educationalists. The main purpose of the study was to find out certain performance variables that would contribute for the development of pole vaulting performance of men.MethodsA total of 15 State elite Pole Vaulters were randomly selected as subjects for the study. The dependable variable was the performance of the subject in pole vault and the independent variable selected for the study were speed, height, weight, arm power, leg explosive power, hip flexibility, abdominal endurance, hand grip, effective hand grip and push-off. The Pearson product moment correlation was employed to determine the relationship between the criterion variable and the predictor variables. The multiple regression equation to predict the maximum vaulting height was developed with selected predictor variable. The level of significance was fixed 0.05.Results:The multiple regression analysis showed that the height of the hand grip, push-off and speed were strong predictors of maximum vaulting height. The results also showed that there are many influencing factors of hand grip on the pole like speed, strength, coordination, height of vaulter and the method of pole shift and plant. The push off and speed showed high degree of correlation with performance in pole vault.Conclusion:It was concluded that the speed, height of the hand grip on the pole and push off are very important predictors of reaching maximum height in the event.
COMPARING TWO ECCENTRIC EXERCISE PROGRAMMES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY. A PILOT TRIAL
Authors: Stasinopoulos Dimitrios , Manias Pantelis
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To compare eccentric exercises as proposed by Alfredson with eccentric and static exercises as proposed by Stanish in the management of Achilles tendinopathy.

Methods

Patients with midportion Achilles tendinopathy for at least 3 months were included in this trial. They were sequentially allocated to receive either Alfredson's exercise programme or Stanish's exercise programme. Outcome measures were pain and function using the VISA-A score. Patients were evaluated at baseline, at the end of treatment (week 12), and six months (week 36) after the end of treatment.

Results

41 patients met the inclusion criteria. At the end of treatment, there was a rise in VISA-A score in both groups compared with baseline (p<0.05, paired t-test). There were significant differences in the VISA-A score between the groups at the end of treatment and at the 6-month follow up; Alfredson exercise programme group produced the largest effect (p<0.0005, independent t-test).

Conclusion

An exercise programme based on Alfredson protocol was superior to Stanish model to reduce pain and improve function in patients with Achilles tendinopathy at the end of the treatment and at the follow-up. Further research is needed to confirm our results.
APPLICATION OF INTRINSIC TIME-SCALE DECOMPOSITION (ITD) TO EEG SIGNALS FOR AUTOMATED SEIZURE PREDICTION
Authors: MARTIS ROSHAN JOY , ACHARYA U RAJENDRA , TAN JEN HONG , PETZNICK ANDREA , TONG LOUIS , CHUA CHUA KUANG , NG EDDIE YIN KWEE
Published: June 2013

Intrinsic time-scale decomposition (ITD) is a new nonlinear method of time-frequency representation which can decipher the minute changes in the nonlinear EEG signals. In this work, we have automatically classified normal, interictal and ictal EEG signals using the features derived from the ITD representation. The energy, fractal dimension and sample entropy features computed on ITD representation coupled with decision tree classifier has yielded an average classification accuracy of 95.67%, sensitivity and specificity of 99% and 99.5%, respectively using 10-fold cross validation scheme. With application of the nonlinear ITD representation, along with conceptual advancement and improvement of the accuracy, the developed system is clinically ready for mass screening in resource constrained and emerging economy scenarios.
A CLUSTERING-BASED FUZZY WAVELET NEURAL NETWORK MODEL FOR SHORT-TERM LOAD FORECASTING
Authors: KODOGIANNIS VASSILIS S. , AMINA MAHDI , PETROUNIAS ILIAS
Published: June 2013

Load forecasting is a critical element of power system operation, involving prediction of the future level of demand to serve as the basis for supply and demand planning. This paper presents the development of a novel clustering-based fuzzy wavelet neural network (CB-FWNN) model and validates its prediction on the short-term electric load forecasting of the Power System of the Greek Island of Crete. The proposed model is obtained from the traditional Takagi–Sugeno–Kang fuzzy system by replacing the THEN part of fuzzy rules with a "multiplication" wavelet neural network (MWNN). Multidimensional Gaussian type of activation functions have been used in the IF part of the fuzzyrules. A Fuzzy Subtractive Clustering scheme is employed as a pre-processing technique to find out the initial set and adequate number of clusters and ultimately the number of multiplication nodes in MWNN, while Gaussian Mixture Models with the Expectation Maximization algorithm are utilized for the definition of the multidimensional Gaussians. The results corresponding to the minimum and maximum power load indicate that the proposed load forecasting model provides significantly accurate forecasts, compared to conventional neural networks models.
MODIFIED SUPERGRAVITY AND EARLY UNIVERSE: THE MEETING POINT OF COSMOLOGY AND HIGH-ENERGY PHYSICS
Authors: KETOV SERGEI V.
Published: June 2013

We review the new theory of modified supergravity, dubbed the [Formula: see text] supergravity, and some of its recent applications to inflation and reheating in the early universe cosmology. The [Formula: see text] supergravity is the N = 1 locally supersymmetric extension of the f(R) gravity in four space–time dimensions. A manifestly supersymmetric formulation of the [Formula: see text] supergravity exist in terms of N = 1 superfields, by using the (old) minimal Poincaré supergravity in curved superspace. We find the conditions for stability, the absence of ghosts and tachyons. Three models of the [Formula: see text] supergravity are studied. The first example is devoted to a recovery of the standard (pure) N = 1 supergravity with a negative cosmological constant from the [Formula: see text] supergravity. As the second example, a generic [Formula: see text] supergravity is investigated, and the existence of the AdS bound on the scalar curvature is found. As the third (and most important) example, a simple viable realization of chaotic inflation in supergravity is found. Our approach is minimalistic since it does not introduce new exotic fields or new interactions, beyond those already present in (super)gravity. The universal reheating mechanism is automatic. We establish the consistency of our approach and also apply it to preheating and reheating after inflation. The Higgs inflation and its correspondence to the Starobinsky inflation are established in the context of supergravity. We briefly review other relevant issues such as non-Gaussianity, CP-violation, origin of baryonic asymmetry, lepto- and baryo-genesis. The [Formula: see text] supergravity has promise for possible solutions to those outstanding problems too.
DEGENERATE BIFURCATIONS OF HETERODIMENSIONAL CYCLES WITH ORBIT FLIP
Authors: LIU XINGBO , LIU JUNYING , ZHU DEMING
Published: June 2013

In this paper, nongeneric bifurcation analysis near heterodimensional cycles with orbit flip is investigated for three-dimensional systems. With the aid of a suitable local coordinate system, the Poincaré map is constructed. By means of the bifurcation equations, the existence, nonexistence, coexistence and uniqueness of homoclinic orbit, periodic orbits and the heterodimensional cycle are studied, the relevant bifurcation surfaces and their existing regions are given. Some known results are extended. An example is given to show the existence of the system which has a heterodimensional cycle with orbit flip.
DERAILMENT RISK ANALYSIS OF A TILTING RAILWAY VEHICLE MOVING OVER IRREGULAR TRACKS UNDER WIND LOADS
Authors: CHENG YUNG-CHANG , HUANG CHENG-HAO , KUO CHEN-MING , CHEN CHERN-HWA
Published: June 2013

Based on the nonlinear creep model and Kalker's linear theory, this paper studies the governing differential equations of motion for a tilting railway vehicle moving over irregular curved tracks under wind loads. The tilting vehicle is modeled by a 24-degree-of-freedom (24-DOF) car system, considering the lateral, roll and yaw motions of each wheelset, the lateral, vertical, roll and yaw motions of each bogie frame and the car body. The derailment quotients of the tilting railway vehicle with the wheelsets moving over irregular rails in the lateral direction and the car body acted upon by the wind loads are investigated for various tilting angles. The analysis results show that in general, the derailment quotient of the wheelset increases as the tilting angle of the railway vehicle increases. When the railway vehicle moves at low speeds, the derailment quotient calculated for the case with rail irregularities is greater than that for the case with no rail irregularities. Moreover, the derailment quotient of a wheelset moving over curved tracks of various radii is presented. Finally, the derailment quotient computed for the case under wind loads is greater than that free of wind loads. As a result, the influence of rail irregularities and wind loads on the derailment risk of a tilting vehicle cannot be ignored.
THE NEXT GENERATION OF SIMILARITY MEASURES THAT FULLY EXPLORE THE SEMANTICS IN BIOMEDICAL ONTOLOGIES
Authors: COUTO FRANCISCO M. , PINTO H. SOFIA
Published: June 2013

There is a prominent trend to augment and improve the formality of biomedical ontologies. For example, this is shown by the current effort on adding description logic axioms, such as disjointness. One of the key ontology applications that can take advantage of this effort is the conceptual (functional) similarity measurement. The presence of description logic axioms in biomedical ontologies make the current structural or extensional approaches weaker and further away from providing sound semantics-based similarity measures. Although beneficial in small ontologies, the exploration of description logic axioms by semantics-based similarity measures is computational expensive. This limitation is critical for biomedical ontologies that normally contain thousands of concepts. Thus in the process of gaining their rightful place, biomedical functional similarity measures have to take the journey of finding how this rich and powerful knowledge can be fully explored while keeping feasible computational costs. This manuscript aims at promoting and guiding the development of compelling tools that deliver what the biomedical community will require in a near future: a next-generation of biomedical similarity measures that efficiently and fully explore the semantics present in biomedical ontologies.
Optimal Entanglement Witnesses for Two Qutrits
Authors: Chruściński Dariusz , Sarbicki Gniewomir
Published: June 2013

We provide a simple proof that entanglement witnesses considered recently in [1] are optimal.
The chilling tale of copyright law in online creative communities
Authors: Fiesler Casey
Published: June 2013

Online content creators are making decisions every day based on copyright laws that even judges have trouble interpreting. What impact does this confusion over the law have on our technology use and our creativity online?
Making a scene
Authors: O'Neill Brian
Published: June 2013

How can people and AI equally participate in creating something? How do they do it when they cannot edit or revise their work?
Kodu game lab, a few lessons learned
Authors: Coy Stephen
Published: June 2013

Kodu Game Lab is a complete, 3-D game development environment designed to be accessible to children as young as 9 years old. The core of Kodu is a custom visual programming language, which blends ease of use with expressibility.
PROMISE technology transfer day
Authors: Forner Pamela , Bentivogli Luisa , Braschler Martin , Choukri Khalid , Ferro Nicola , Hanbury Allan , Karlgren Jussi , Müller Henning
Published: June 2013

The Technology Transfer Day was held at CeBIT 2013 from March 5 to March 9, at the Deutsche Messe in Hannover, Germany. PROMISE presented three events at CeBIT: a panel in the CeBIT Global Conference (CGC) - Power Stage, a one-day workshop hosted in the CeBIT Convention Center, and a stand "EU Language & Big Data Projects" in Hall 9. The whole program included 4 panelists, 12 invited talks, and discussions among the speakers and with the public. This report overviews the aims and contents of the events and outlines the major outcomes.
An EDF run-time profile based on ravenscar
Authors: Burns A.
Published: June 2013

This paper presents a definition of a Ravenscar-like profile (EDF Ravenscar) that incorporates EDF scheduling. Rather than just replace the dispatching policy, an argument is made for simplifying the support that is provided in full Ada for controlling access to protected objects. As a result all tasks and protected objects have their default priorities, and only one ready queue is needed (ordered by absolute deadline). The paper also outlines the static scheduling analysis that can be applied to applications conforming to the profile.
Revisiting transactions in Ada
Authors: Barros António , Pinho Luís Miguel
Published: June 2013

Classical lock-based concurrency control does not scale with current and foreseen multi-core architectures, opening space for alternative concurrency control mechanisms. The concept of transactions executing concurrently in isolation with an underlying mechanism maintaining a consistent system state was already explored in fault-tolerant and distributed systems, and is currently being explored by transactional memory, this time being used to manage concurrent memory access. In this paper we discuss the use of Software Transactional Memory (STM), and how Ada can provide support for it. Furthermore, we draft a general programming interface to transactional memory, supporting future implementations of STM oriented to real-time systems.
Deferred setting of scheduling attributes in Ada 2012
Authors: Sáez Sergio , Crespo Alfons
Published: June 2013

Some scheduling techniques, specially in multiprocessor systems, require changing several task attributes atomically to avoid scheduling errors and artifacts. This work proposes to incorporate the deferred attribute setting mechanism to cope with this problem in the next Ada 2012.
Is Sleep Essential for Neural Plasticity in Humans, and How Does It Affect Motor and Cognitive Recovery?
Authors: Gorgoni Maurizio , D'Atri Aurora , Lauri Giulia , Rossini Paolo Maria , Ferlazzo Fabio , De Gennaro Luigi
Published: June 2013

There is a general consensus that sleep is strictly linked to memory, learning, and, in general, to the mechanisms of neural plasticity, and that this link may directly affect recovery processes. In fact, a coherent pattern of empirical findings points to beneficial effect of sleep on learning and plastic processes, and changes in synaptic plasticity during wakefulness induce coherent modifications in EEG slow wave cortical topography during subsequent sleep. However, the specific nature of the relation between sleep and synaptic plasticity is not clear yet. We reported findings in line with two models conflicting with respect to the underlying mechanisms, that is, the “synaptic homeostasis hypothesis” and the “consolidation” hypothesis, and some recent results that may reconcile them. Independently from the specific mechanisms involved, sleep loss is associated with detrimental effects on plastic processes at a molecular and electrophysiological level. Finally, we reviewed growing evidence supporting the notion that plasticity-dependent recovery could be improved managing sleep quality, while monitoring EEG during sleep may help to explain how specific rehabilitative paradigms work. We conclude that a better understanding of the sleep-plasticity link could be crucial from a rehabilitative point of view.
Comparison of99mTc-N-DBODC5 and99mTc-MIBI of Myocardial Perfusion Imaging for Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Ma Haiyan , Li Sijin , Wu Zhifang , Liu Jianzhong , Liu Haiyan , Guo Xiaoshan
Published: June 2013

Despite recent advances in therapeutic and diagnostic approaches, coronary artery disease (CAD) and its related cardiac disorders represent the most common cause of death in the United States. Nuclear myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) technologies play a pivotal role in the diagnosis and treatment design for CAD. Recently, in order to develop improved MPI agents for diagnosis of CAD,99mTc-[bis(dimethoxypropylphosphinoethyl)-ethoxyethyl-amine(PNP5)]-[bis(N-ethoxyethyl)dithiocarbamato(DBODC)]nitride(N-DBODC5)(99mTc-N-DBODC5) with a faster liver clearance than conventional single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging agents (technetium 99m sestamibi (99mTc-MIBI) or technetium 99m tetrofosmin) has been introduced. In preclinical and phase I studies,99mTc-N-DBODC5 has shown characteristics of an essentially ideal MPI tracer. Importantly, however, there is no data to support the use of99mTc-N-DBODC5 to evaluate myocardial ischemia in patients with suspected CAD. The present study was designed to assess the clinical value of this agent; the findings of stress and rest MPI after the administration of this agent were compared to those of stress and rest99mTc-MIBI, as well as those of coronary angiography, with respect to the detection of CAD. Our findings indicated the usefulness of99mTc-N-DBODC5 as a promising MPI agent.
The Demise of Poskanzer and Schwab’s Influenza Theory on the Pathogenesis of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Estupinan Danny , Nathoo Sunina , Okun Michael S.
Published: June 2013

In 1961, David C. Poskanzer and Robert S. Schwab presented a paper, “Studies in the epidemiology of Parkinson’s disease predicting its disappearance as a major clinical entity by 1980.” This paper introduced the hypothesis that Parkinson’s disease was derived from a single aetiology, the influenza virus. We review the original Poskanzer and Schwab hypothesis that Parkinson’s disease was based on the association between the 1918-19 influenza epidemic and the later observation of Parkinsonism in some influenza sufferers. We also further explore the prediction that Parkinson’s disease would totally disappear as an entity once original influenza victims were all deceased. Current research has revealed that there are many potential causes and factors important in the occurrence of Parkinson’s disease, postencephalitic Parkinsonism, and encephalitis lethargica. Poskanzer and Schwab presented a novel hypothesis; however, it was proven false by a combination of research and time.
Effects of pH Value of the Electrolyte and Glycine Additive on Formation and Properties of Electrodeposited Zn‐Fe Coatings
Authors: Karahan İsmail Hakki
Published: June 2013

Environmentally friendly and cyanide‐free sulfate bath under continuous current and the corrosion behavior of electrodeposits of zinc‐iron alloys were studied by means of electrochemical tests in a solution of 3.5% NaCl in presence and absence of glycine. The effects of pH on the quality of Zn‐Fe coatings were investigated in order to improve uniformity and corrosion protection performance of the coating films. The deposit morphology was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) was used to determine the preferred crystallographic orientations of the deposits. It was found that the uniformity and corrosion resistance of Zn‐Fe coating films were strongly associated with pH of the coating electrolyte. To obtain the effect of pH on the film quality and corrosion performances of the films, the corrosion test was performed with potentiodynamic anodic polarization method. It was also observed that uniformity and corrosion resistivity of the coating films were decreased towards pH = 5 and then improved with increasing pH value of the electrolyte. The presence of glycine in the plating bath decreases the corrosion resistance of Zn‐Fe coatings.
Immunohistochemical Analysis of Vimentin in Oral Submucous Fibrosis
Authors: Nayak Meghanand T. , Singh Anjali , Desai Rajiv S. , Vanaki S. S.
Published: June 2013

Background. Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), a precancerous condition, is characterized by abnormal accumulation of collagen fibers in oral submucosa. Vimentin is a Class 2 intermediate filament (IF) and primarily expressed in cells of mesenchymal origin. Vimentin is also found to be involved in cell growth, cell cycling, and tumour differentiation.Objective. The purpose of the study was to compare the expression of vimentin in various histological grades of OSF.Materials and Methods. To assess the immunohistochemical expression of vimentin in 20 mild cases of OSF, 20 severe cases of OSF, and ten cases of normal oral buccal mucosa.Results. The overall staining intensity of vimentin significantly increased statistically (P<0.01) in OSF cases over normal control. A significant increase in the staining intensity of vimentin was also noted in the fibroblasts of severe cases of OSF (P=0.03).Conclusion. Considering the marked vimentin expression in the present study, future studies should include cytoskeleton IF and other filaments in the fibroblasts of OSF.
Efficacy of Anti-TNF Agents as Adjunctive Therapy for Knee Synovitis Refractory to Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs in Patients with Peripheral Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Sakellariou Grigorios T. , Anastasilakis Athanasios D. , Bisbinas Ilias , Gketsos Anastasios , Berberidis Charalampos
Published: June 2013

Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors as add-on therapy for knee synovitis that did not respond to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and other standard treatments in patients with peripheral spondyloarthritis (SpA). We retrospectively studied 27 SpA patients, in whom an anti-TNF agent was added for active peripheral arthritis with knee synovitis refractory to DMARDs and treatment with low-dose oral corticosteroids and/or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and intra-articular (IA) corticosteroids. As response of knee synovitis, were considered the absence of swelling, tenderness, and decreased range of movement in the clinical examination, after 4 months of anti-TNF therapy. In twenty-four (88.9%) of the patients there was response of knee synovitis. No statistical differences in gender (P=0.53), age (P=0.88), disease subtype (P=0.22), and pattern of arthritis (P=0.20) between knee synovitis responders and nonresponders were found. Fourteen patients managed to stop DMARD therapy and six, all of whom were initially on DMARDs combination, to decrease the number of DMARDs to one, maintaining simultaneously the response of knee synovitis. Our results imply a beneficial effect of adjunctive anti-TNF therapy on knee synovitis not responding to DMARDs and other standard treatments in patients with peripheral SpA.
The Effects of Practice on the Concurrent Performance of a Speech and Postural Task in Persons with Parkinson Disease and Healthy Controls
Authors: Foreman K. Bo , Sondrup Stuart , Dromey Christopher , Jarvis Eon , Nissen Shawn , Dibble Leland E.
Published: June 2013

Purpose. Persons with Parkinson disease (PD) demonstrate deficits in motor learning as well as bidirectional interference (the performance of one task concurrently interferes with the performance of another task) during dual-task performance. Few studies have examined the practice dosages necessary for behavioral change in rehabilitation relevant tasks. Therefore, to compare the effects of age and PD on motor learning during dual-task performance, this pilot study examined persons with PD as well as neurologically healthy participants during concurrent performance of postural and speaking tasks.Methods. Seven persons with PD and 7 healthy age-matched and 10 healthy young control subjects were tested in a motion capture facility. Task performances were performed concurrently and recorded during 3 time periods (acquisition (beginning and ending), 48-hour retention, and 1-week retention). Postural control and speech articulatory acoustic variables were measured.Results. Healthy young participants consistently performed better than other groups on all measured postural and speech variables. Healthy young participants showed decreased variability at retention, while persons with PD and healthy age-matched controls were unable to consistently improve their performance as a result of practice. No changes were noted in the speech variables.Conclusion. The lack of consistent changes in motor performance in any of the tasks, except in the healthy young group, suggests a decreased efficiency of motor learning in the age-matched and PD groups and argues for increased practice dosages during balance training.
Posttranscriptional Regulation of PER1 Underlies the Oncogenic Function of IREα
Authors: Pluquet Olivier , Dejeans Nicolas , Bouchecareilh Marion , Lhomond Stephanie , Pineau Raphael , Higa Arisa , Delugin Maylis , Combe Chantal , Loriot Sandrine , Cubel Gaelle , Dugot-Senant Nathalie , Vital Anne , Loiseau Hugues , Gosline Sara J.C. , Taouji Said , Hallett Michael , Sarkaria Jann N. , Anderson Keith , Wu Wenting , Rodriguez Fausto J. , Rosenbaum Jean , Saltel Frédéric , Fernandez-Zapico Martin E. , Chevet Eric
Published: June 2013

Growing evidence supports a role for the unfolded protein response (UPR) in carcinogenesis; however, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain elusive. Herein, we identified the circadian clock PER1 mRNA as a novel substrate of the endoribonuclease activity of the UPR sensor IRE1α. Analysis of the mechanism shows that IRE1α endoribonuclease activity decreased PER1 mRNA in tumor cells without affecting PER1 gene transcription. Inhibition of IRE1α signaling using either siRNA-mediated silencing or a dominant-negative strategy prevented PER1 mRNA decay, reduced tumorigenesis, and increased survival, features that were reversed upon PER1 silencing. Clinically, patients showing reduced survival have lower levels of PER1 mRNA expression and increased splicing of XBP1, a known IRE-α substrate, thereby pointing toward an increased IRE1α activity in these patients. Hence, we describe a novel mechanism connecting the UPR and circadian clock components in tumor cells, thereby highlighting the importance of this interplay in tumor development. Cancer Res; 73(15); 4732–43. ©2013 AACR.
Platelet Transfusion - the Art and Science of Compromise
Authors: Cid Joan , Harm Sarah K. , Yazer Mark H.
Published: June 2013

Many modern therapies depend on platelet (PLT) transfusion support. PLTs have a 4- to 7-day shelf life and are frequently in short supply. In order to optimize the inventory PLTs are often transfused to adults without regard for ABO compatibility. Hemolytic reactions are infrequent despite the presence of ‘high titer' anti-A and anti-B antibodies in some of the units. Despite the low risk for hemolysis, some centers provide only ABO identical PLTs to their recipients; this practice might have other beneficial outcomes that remain to be proven. Strategies to mitigate the risk of hemolysis and the clinical and laboratory outcomes following ABO-matched and mismatched transfusions will be discussed. Although the PLTs themselves do not carry the D antigen, a small number of RBCs are also transfused with every PLT dose. The quantity of RBCs varies by the type of PLT preparation, and even a small quantity of D+ RBCs can alloimmunize a susceptible D- host. Thus PLT units are labeled as D+/-, and most transfusion services try to prevent the transfusion of D+ PLTs to D- females of childbearing age. A similar policy for patients with hematological diseases is controversial, and the elements and mechanisms of anti-D alloimmunization will be discussed.
Ratio of Transmitral E-Wave Velocity to Early Diastole Mitral Annulus Velocity with Cardiovascular and Renal Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Chen Szu-Chia , Chang Jer-Ming , Tsai Yi-Chun , Huang Jiun-Chi , Chen Ling-I , Su Ho-Ming , Hwang Shang-Jyh , Chen Hung-Chun
Published: June 2013

Background/Aims: Impaired left ventricular diastolic function and increased left ventricular filling pressure are frequently noted in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), even in early stages. The association of increased left ventricular filling pressure with cardiovascular and renal outcomes remains uncertain in CKD. This study is designed to assess whether the ratio of transmitral E-wave velocity (E) to early diastole mitral velocity (Ea) is associated with cardiovascular events and progression to dialysis in patients with CKD stages 3-5. Methods: This longitudinal study enrolled 356 predialysis CKD patients. Cardiovascular events were defined as cardiovascular death, hospitalization for unstable angina, nonfatal myocardial infarction, ventricular tachycardia, hospitalization for congestive heart failure, transient ischemia attack, and stroke. The renal endpoint was defined as commencement of dialysis. The relative cardiovascular events and renal endpoints risks were analyzed by Cox regression methods. Results: The high E/Ea was independently associated with old age, cerebrovascular disease, congestive heart failure, high systolic blood pressure, hypertriglyceridemia, low hemoglobin, proteinuria, and worse echocardiographic profiles. Besides, the high E/Ea increased the risk of cardiovascular events (hazard ratio (HR) 1.067; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.017-1.119; p = 0.008) and progression to dialysis (HR 1.042; 95% CI 1.000-1.085; p = 0.048). Conclusions: Our study in patients of CKD stages 3-5 demonstrated the high E/Ea was associated with increased cardiovascular events and progression to dialysis. Assessment of the E/Ea by Doppler echocardiography is useful for predicting the risk of adverse cardiovascular and renal outcomes in CKD patients.
Embryonic Stem Cell–Derived CD166
+
Precursors Develop Into Fully Functional Sinoatrial-Like Cells
Authors: Scavone Angela , Capilupo Daniela , Mazzocchi Nausicaa , Crespi Alessia , Zoia Stefano , Campostrini Giulia , Bucchi Annalisa , Milanesi Raffaella , Baruscotti Mirko , Benedetti Sara , Antonini Stefania , Messina Graziella , DiFrancesco Dario , Barbuti Andrea
Published: June 2013

Rationale:

A cell-based biological pacemaker is based on the differentiation of stem cells and the selection of a population displaying the molecular and functional properties of native sinoatrial node (SAN) cardiomyocytes. So far, such selection has been hampered by the lack of proper markers. CD166 is specifically but transiently expressed in the mouse heart tube and sinus venosus, the prospective SAN.

Objective:

We have explored the possibility of using CD166 expression for isolating SAN progenitors from differentiating embryonic stem cells.

Methods and Results:

We found that in embryonic day 10.5 mouse hearts, CD166 and HCN4, markers of the pacemaker tissue, are coexpressed. Sorting embryonic stem cells for CD166 expression at differentiation day 8 selects a population of pacemaker precursors. CD166
+
cells express high levels of genes involved in SAN development (Tbx18, Tbx3, Isl-1, Shox2) and function (Cx30.2, HCN4, HCN1, CaV1.3) and low levels of ventricular genes (Cx43, Kv4.2, HCN2, Nkx2.5). In culture, CD166
+
cells form an autorhythmic syncytium composed of cells morphologically similar to and with the electrophysiological properties of murine SAN myocytes. Isoproterenol increases (+57%) and acetylcholine decreases (−23%) the beating rate of CD166-selected cells, which express the β-adrenergic and muscarinic receptors. In cocultures, CD166-selected cells are able to pace neonatal ventricular myocytes at a rate faster than their own. Furthermore, CD166
+
cells have lost pluripotency genes and do not form teratomas in vivo.

Conclusions:

We demonstrated for the first time the isolation of a nonteratogenic population of cardiac precursors able to mature and form a fully functional SAN-like tissue.
Heterozygous Disruption of Renal Outer Medullary Potassium Channel in Rats Is Associated With Reduced Blood Pressure
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyan , Zhang Zuo , Shin Myung Kyun , Horwitz Sarah Beth , Levorse John M. , Zhu Lei , Sharif-Rodriguez Wanda , Streltsov Denis Y. , Dajee Maya , Hernandez Melba , Pan Yi , Urosevic-Price Olga , Wang Li , Forrest Gail , Szeto Daphne , Zhu Yonghua , Cui Yan , Michael Bindhu , Balogh Leslie Ann , Welling Paul A. , Wade James B. , Roy Sophie , Sullivan Kathleen A.
Published: June 2013

The renal outer medullary potassium channel (ROMK,
KCNJ1
) mediates potassium recycling and facilitates sodium reabsorption through the Na
+
/K
+
/2Cl
−
cotransporter in the loop of Henle and potassium secretion at the cortical collecting duct. Human genetic studies indicate that ROMK homozygous loss-of-function mutations cause type II Bartter syndrome, featuring polyuria, renal salt wasting, and hypotension; humans heterozygous for ROMK mutations identified in the Framingham Heart Study have reduced blood pressure. ROMK null mice recapitulate many of the features of type II Bartter syndrome. We have generated an ROMK knockout rat model in Dahl salt-sensitive background by using zinc finger nuclease technology and investigated the effects of knocking out ROMK on systemic and renal hemodynamics and kidney histology in the Dahl salt-sensitive rats. The ROMK
−/−
pups recapitulated features identified in the ROMK null mice. The ROMK
+/−
rats, when challenged with a 4% salt diet, exhibited a reduced blood pressure compared with their ROMK
+/+
littermates. More importantly, when challenged with an 8% salt diet, the Dahl salt-sensitive rats with 50% less ROMK expression showed increased protection from salt-induced blood pressure elevation and signs of protection from renal injury. Our findings in ROMK knockout Dahl salt-sensitive rats, together with the previous reports in humans and mice, underscore a critical role of ROMK in blood pressure regulation.
Employer and employer association matters in Australia in 2012
Authors: Sheldon Peter , Thornthwaite Louise
Published: June 2013

This article examines the industrial relations issues that have attracted most time and attention of employers and their associations during 2012, as well as the public, policy-directed rhetoric in which they have engaged. A first element is representative and institutional, in a year of substantial change in senior association personnel. Accordingly, we examine associations’ engagement in the Fair Work Act Review and Modern Awards Review. At the company level, we examine important instances of employers’ own industrial relations activism as well as their responses to labour shortages in the resources sector. We also briefly discuss recent dramatic job cuts in public sector employment. Throughout the year, through their public rhetoric, the heads of some of Australia’s largest companies have led an incessant, vociferous attack on the federal Labor government. Industrial relations have increasingly become a central plank in this attack. Some of this appears to have a policy basis but it is overwhelmed by a backward-looking desire for a more anti-union, anti-collective bargaining legislative regime. Calls for maximising managerial prerogative appear within a loud but misplaced assertion that productivity improvement requires regressive changes to industrial law.
Span of control and the significance for public sector managers’ job demands: A multilevel study
Authors: Wallin Linda , Pousette Anders , Dellve Lotta
Published: June 2013

The aim of this article is to investigate how span of control influences seven job demands common amongst operational public sector managers. Self-administrated surveys were collected from 434 managers organized in 37 municipal operations, i.e. management teams in a set of public organizations in Sweden, and complemented with register data. Multilevel analyses were performed and it was shown unfavorable to have a large number of subordinates for the majority of job demands investigated. Furthermore, managers who were members of management teams with a higher average span of control experience some job demands to an even higher extent. Thus, the results of this study demonstrate that span of control is a key upstream component of managers’ job demands and emphasize the value of a reasonable number of subordinates.