bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spanin function requires subunit homodimerization through intermolecular disulfide bonds
Authors: Berry Joel D. , Rajaure Manoj , Young Ry
Published: February 2013

The λ Rz and Rz1 proteins are the subunits of the spanin complex, required for the disruption of the outer membrane during host lysis. Rz, the inner membrane or i‐spanin, has a largely alpha‐helical periplasmic domain, whereas Rz1, the outer membrane or o‐spanin, has a 25% proline content with no predicted secondary structure. We report that both Rz and Rz1 accumulate as homodimers covalently linked by intermolecular disulfide bonds involving all three Cys residues, two in Rz and one in Rz1. Moreover, of these three intermolecular disulfides, spanin function requires the presence of at least one of the two linkages nearest the Rz–Rz1 C‐terminal interaction domains; i.e. either the Rz1–Rz1 disulfide or the distal Rz–Rz disulfide link. In a dsbC host, but not in dsbA or dsbA dsbC hosts, formation of the covalent homodimers of Rz is severely reduced and outer membrane disruption is significantly delayed, suggesting that the spanin pathway normally proceeds through DsbA‐mediated formation of an intramolecular disulfide in Rz. In contrast, efficient formation of the Rz1–Rz1 disulfide requires DsbA. Finally, Dsb‐independent formation of the covalent homodimer of either subunit requires the presence of the other, presumably as a template for close apposition of the thiols.
Activity of the Bacillus thuringiensis NprR–NprX cell–cell communication system is co‐ordinated to the physiological stage through a complex transcriptional regulation
Authors: Dubois Thomas , Perchat Stéphane , Verplaetse Emilie , Gominet Myriam , Lemy Christelle , Aumont‐Nicaise Magali , Grenha Rosa , Nessler Sylvie , Lereclus Didier
Published: February 2013

NprR is a quorum sensor of the RNPP family found in bacteria of the Bacillus cereus group. In association with its cognate peptide NprX, NprR controls the expression of genes essential for survival and sporulation of Bacillus thuringiensis during its necrotrophic development in insects. Here, we report that the nprR–nprX genes are not autoregulated and are co‐transcribed from a σA‐dependent promoter (PA) located upstream from nprR. The transcription from PA starts at the onset of the stationary phase and is controlled by two transcriptional regulators: CodY and PlcR. The nutritional repressor CodY represses nprR–nprX transcription during the exponential growth phase and the quorum sensor PlcR activates nprR–nprX transcription at the onset of stationary phase. We show that nprX is also transcribed independently of nprR from two promoters, PH and PE, dependent on the sporulation‐specific sigma factors, σH and σE respectively. Both promoters ensure nprX transcription during late stationary phase while transcription from PA has decreased. These results show that the activity of the NprR–NprX quorum sensing system is tightly co‐ordinated to the physiological stage throughout the developmental process of the Bacillus.
Prediction, Authority, and Entitlement in Shared Activity
Authors: Roth Abraham Sesshu
Published: February 2013

Shared activity is often simply willed into existence by individuals. This poses a problem. Philosophical reflection suggests that shared activity involves a distinctive, interlocking structure of intentions. But it is not obvious how one can form the intention necessary for shared activity without settling what fellow participants will do and thereby compromising their agency and autonomy. One response to this problem suggests that an individual can have the requisite intention if she makes the appropriate predictions about fellow participants. I argue that implementing this predictive strategy risks derailing practical reasoning and preventing one from forming the intention. My alternative proposal for reconciling shared activity with autonomy appeals to the idea of acting directly on another's intention. In particular, I appeal to the entitlement one sometimes has to another's practical judgment, and the corresponding authority the other sometimes has to settle what one is to do.
Pyogenic granuloma mimicking peripheral dentinogenic ghost‐cell tumour recurrence: case report and meta‐analytic literature update
Authors: Pommer B. , Dvorak G. , Rappersberger K. , Jordan R.C.K. , Watzek G. , Pogrel M.A.
Published: February 2013

Peripheral (extraosseous) dentinogenic ghost‐cell tumours are extremely rare neoplasms, representing less than 1% of all odontogenic tumours. Only 28 cases (including the present report) are described in literature: the majority of patients (89%) are over 40 years of age (mean: 59.1 ± 20.5 years) and 63% are male. Seventy‐three per cent are located in the mandible, and anterior jaw regions are most commonly affected (74%). Erosion of the underlying bone can be observed in 53% radiographically. The present case report describes a recurrent swelling after excisional biopsy of a peripheral dentinogenic ghost‐cell tumour in the anterior maxilla of a 78‐year‐old male patient mimicking tumour recurrence. Histopathological examination of the second biopsy, however, revealed no evidence of ghost‐cell tumour recurrence but development of a pyogenic granuloma. In contrast to central dentinogenic ghost‐cell tumours, there is no evidence of recurrence of peripheral dentinogenic ghost‐cell tumours in literature to date.
Reflections on the process of translation and cultural adaptation of an instrument to investigate taste and smell changes in adults with cancer
Authors: McGreevy Jenny , Orrevall Ylva , Belqaid Kerstin , Bernhardson Britt‐Marie
Published: February 2013

Taste and smell changes are common and distressing symptoms in patients with cancer, which may contribute to decreased nutritional intake leading to malnutrition and reduced quality of life. Evidence‐based knowledge available to healthcare staff regarding dietary counselling of patients with taste and smell changes is lacking. To be able to develop advice to patients, these symptoms need to be characterised and assessed. The Taste and Smell Survey (TSS) is a 16‐item questionnaire in English, which has been used in Canada to investigate self‐perceived changes in taste and smell reported by patients with cancer. As no equivalent instrument exists in Swedish, we therefore translated the TSS. This article describes and discusses experiences of using a 5‐step process for translation and cultural adaptation of the TSS. Each of the five steps was found to elicit different, essential information contributing to the enhancement of the translation and building further upon refinements of the previous steps. Using a structured, multistep approach to translation and cultural adaptation, we have produced a robust instrument to investigate taste and smell changes specifically adapted for use in the Swedish language and culture.
Differential Endosomal Sorting of a Novel P2Y12 Purinoreceptor Mutant
Authors: Cunningham Margaret R. , Nisar Shaista P. , Cooke Alexandra E. , Emery Elizabeth D. , Mundell Stuart J.
Published: February 2013

P2Y12 receptor internalization and recycling play an essential role in ADP‐induced platelet activation. Recently, we identified a patient with a mild bleeding disorder carrying a heterozygous mutation of P2Y12 (P341A) whose P2Y12 receptor recycling was significantly compromised. Using human cell line models, we identified key proteins regulating wild‐type (WT) P2Y12 recycling and investigated P2Y12‐P341A receptor traffic. Treatment with ADP resulted in delayed Rab5‐dependent internalization of P341A when compared with WT P2Y12. While WT P2Y12 rapidly recycled back to the membrane via Rab4 and Rab11 recycling pathways, limited P341A recycling was observed, which relied upon Rab11 activity. Although minimal receptor degradation was evident, P341A was localized in Rab7‐positive endosomes with considerable agonist‐dependent accumulation in the trans‐Golgi network (TGN). Rab7 activity is known to facilitate recruitment of retromer complex proteins to endosomes to transport cargo to the TGN. Here, we identified that P341A colocalized with Vps26; depletion of which blocked limited recycling and promoted receptor degradation. This study has identified key points of divergence in the endocytic traffic of P341A versus WT‐P2Y12. Given that these pathways are retained in human platelets, this research helps define the molecular mechanisms regulating P2Y12 receptor traffic and explain the compromised receptor function in the platelets of the P2Y12‐P341A‐expressing patient.
Addition of ascorbic acid solution to stored murine red blood cells increases posttransfusion recovery and decreases microparticles and alloimmunization
Authors: Stowell Sean R. , Smith Nicole H. , Zimring James C. , Fu Xiaoyun , Palmer Andre F. , Fontes Jorge , Banerjee Uddyalok , Yazer Mark H.
Published: February 2013

Background

The storage of red blood cells (RBCs) results in numerous changes, which over time result in decreased recovery of transfused RBCs. In addition (at least in animal models), stored RBCs can be more immunogenic and also stimulate the systemic release of inflammatory cytokines in transfusion recipients. One component of the RBC storage lesion is the accumulation of oxidative damage. We tested the hypothesis that adding a chemical antioxidant (ascorbic acid) to stored RBCs would improve the quality of the stored RBCs.

Study Design and Methods

RBCs were harvested from FVB.HOD mice that express an RBC‐specific model transgene (HOD) and stored for 14 days with either ascorbic acid in saline or saline alone. Twenty‐four‐hour posttransfusion recovery of RBCs was tracked by flow cytometry. Alloimmunization was monitored by flow cytometry crossmatch. Cytokines were monitored by multiplex bead arrays.

Results

RBCs stored under standard conditions had decreased 24‐hour posttransfusion recovery and increased induction of both alloantibodies and interleukin (IL)‐6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1 secretion in the mouse recipients. Addition of ascorbic acid from 3.6 to 10.8 mmol/L resulted in a significant decrease in microparticle formation, an improved RBC 24‐hour posttransfusion recovery (p < 0.01), and a decrease in recipient alloimmunization (p = 0.0001). Induction of MCP‐1 and IL‐6 secretion was not decreased by ascorbic acid.

Conclusions

These data indicate that the addition of ascorbic acid solution to RBCs during storage has a beneficial effect on recovery and immunogenicity of RBCs, but not cytokine induction. The addition of ascorbic acid (or other antioxidants) to human RBCs may have beneficial effects.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Properties of Leather Treated with Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Majidnia Zohreh , Idris Ani , Valipour Peiman
Published: February 2013

Objektif kajian ini adalah untuk merawat kulit dengan nanopartikel perak untuk membangunkan ciri-ciri antibakteria di kulit. Aktiviti biologi ke atas kasut kulit menyebabkan pertumbuhan bakteria dan menyebabkan bau yang tidak menyenangkan. Nanopartikel perak telah diketahui mempunyai beberapa kesan antibakteria dan telah ditambah kepada minyak yang digunakan dalam langkah pemprosesan kulit. Sedikit nanopartikel perak (6 dan 8%v/v) telah dimasukkan ke dalam minyak dan ciri-ciri antibakteria telah dinilai menggunakan rendaman dan kaedah ujian kapasiti. Larutan bakteria, bersamaan kekeruhan McFarland piawai sebanyak 0.5 telah disediakan untuk staphylococcus aureus dan bakteria Escherichia coli. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa ujian antimikrobial ke atas sampel yang mengandungi nanopartikel perak menunjukkan ciri-ciri antibakteria yang indikasi oleh Piawai Antarabangsa (ISO 22196) kelembutan penggantungan kurang dari 3x108 CFU/ml. Oleh itu kulit yang dirawat dengan nanopartikel perak mempunyai ciri-ciri antibakteria dengan kecenderungan untuk mengurangkan bau-bau tidak menyenangkan.

Kata kunci: Kulit; sifat anti-bakteria; nanopartikel; perak

The objective of this study is to treat leather with silver nanoparticles so as to develop antibacterial properties in the leather. The biological activity on leather shoes resulted in bacterial growth and caused the unpleasant smell. Silver nanoparticles have been known to possess some antibacterial effects and were added to the oil used in the leather processing step. A small amount of silver nanoparticles (6 and 8%v/v) were added to oil and its antibacterial properties have been evaluated using the immersion and capacity test methods. The bacteria suspension, a turbidity equivalent to a 0.5 McFarland standard was prepared for the S. aureus and E. coli bacteria. Results revealed that antimicrobial tests on samples containing silver nanoparticles showed suitable antibacterial properties indicated by the International Standard (ISO 22196) tenderness of suspension of less than 3x108 CFU/ml. Thus leather treated with silver nanoparticles has antibacterial properties with the tendency to reduce the unpleasant odors.

Keywords: Leather; antibacterial properties; nanoparticle, silver
Impak Strategi Politik Terhadap Amalan Kepimpinan Pengajaran
Pengetua Cemerlang
Authors: Mohd Tahir Lokman , Al Muzammil M. , Salleh Mislina
Published: February 2013

This study aimed to assess the instructional leadership practices and political strategies implemented by the senior principals. Samples for this study consist of 327 teachers from ten secondary schools in Johor Bahru that was leads by the senior principals. Insruments for this research was based on the political strategies adapated from Bolman and Deal (2003)’s political frame and instructional leadership (PIMRS)
model which was developed by Hallinger and Murphy (1987). Result indicates that the senior principals
utilized high-level all the eleven instructional leadership practices which emphasizes on the setting and
enforcement functions of the basic or standard curriculum and the functions to clarify the school’s aims in
instructional leadership, whereas the function of supporting the teaching activities and functions of
perceiving and evaluate the teaching are given less priority. Finding for implementation of political
strategies reveals that senior principals given greater priority to the elements of negotiation and
bargaining, but less practices on the dimension of setting the agenda in choosing the elements of the
current political strategy while leading the school. In addition, the data also showed that political strategies
that used by the senior principal has much influence in practicing the instructional leadership while
leading the school.

Keywords: Political strategies; senior principals; structure equation modeling; instructional leadershipivity tinggi

Kajian ini dirangka untuk menilai amalan kepimpinan pengajaran serta strategi politik yang dipraktikkan oleh Pengetua Cemerlang (PC) dalam memimpin guru. Dalam menilai kepimpinan pengajaran dan strategi politik Pengetua Cemerlang, seramai 327 orang guru yang berkhidmat di 10 buah sekolah yang dipimpin
oleh Pengetua Cemerlang dijadikan sebagai lokasi kajian ini. Instrumen kajian telah dibina dan ditadbir
berdasarkan strategi dalam kepimpinan politik oleh Bolman and Deal (2003) manakala item kepimpinan
pengajaran diasaskan model Hallinger and Murphy (1987). Hasil kajian mendapati bahawa Pengetua
Cemerlang telah melaksanakan 11 fungsi dalam kepimpinan pengajaran dengan fungsi penetapan dan
penguatkuasaan dasar atau standard kurikulum sebagai amalan yang paling kerap dilaksanakan. Sementara
itu, fungsi memberi sokongan dalam aktiviti pengajaran dan fungsi mencerap dan menilai pengajaran guru
dinilai oleh guru-guru sebagai aspek yang masih kurang diberi keutamaan oleh Pengetua Cemerlang.
Perbincangan dalam strategi politik pula mendapati bahawa keutamaan diberikan kepada elemen
perundingan dan tawar menawar namun masih lagi kurang melaksanakan proses menetapkan agenda
dalam ketika memimpin sekolah. Kepimpinan pengajaran yang diamalkan oleh Pengetua Cemerlang juga
didapati disumbangkan oleh aspek strategi politik Pengetua Cemerlang ketika memimpin sekolah.

Kata kunci: Strategi politik; pengetua cemerlang; model persamaan berstruktur; kepimpinan pengajaran
Keperluan Ijtihad dalam Pengurusan Pewarisan Harta: Kajian Terhadap Amalan Nuzriah di Singapura
Authors: Mustar Suhaimi , Nor Muhamad Nasrul Hisyam
Published: February 2013

This article analyzes the need for ijtihad in the management of inheritance with particular reference to the practices on nuzriah in Singapore. For that purpose, the discussion has been made on a nuzriah case that was decided in the High Court of Singapore. In order to analyze the position of nuzriah, the authors has examined the legal views of fiqh, the contemporary fatwas, the provisions of law, and the objectives of
Shariah in nuzriah implementation nuzriah in inheritance. The study found that nuzriah is an instrument
for the distribution of property that is suitable to be practiced in certain situations to address issues of
conflict in the inheritance. In the Singapore context, the concept of nuzriah can be adapted in planning the
family property distribution in addition to the use of hibah, wills and trusts. Nevertheless, the effectiveness
of nuzriah as estate planning instrument also depends on its compliance with both Civil law and Islamic
law.

Keywords: Ijtihad; inheritance; nazar; nuzriah; Islamic Law in Singapore

Artikel ini menganalisis keperluan ijtihad dalam pengurusan pewarisan harta dengan rujukan khusus kepada amalan nuzriah di Singapura. Untuk tujuan tersebut, perbincangan telah dibuat terhadap satu kes berkenaan nuzriah yang telah diputuskan di Mahkamah Tinggi Singapura. Penulis dalam menganalisis
kedudukan nuzriah telah membahaskan pandangan-pandangan fiqh, fatwa semasa, peruntukan undangundang, dan tujuan Syariah dalam pelaksanaan nuzriah dalam pewarisan harta. Kajian mendapati bahawa nuzriah adalah instrumen agihan harta yang sesuai diamalkan dalam situasi-situasi tertentu bagi menangani isu-isu yang menjadi konflik dalam perwarisan harta. Dalam konteks Singapura, konsep nuzriah boleh diadaptasi dalam merancang agihan harta keluarga di samping penggunaan instrumen hibah, wasiat dan amanah. Sungguhpun demikian, keberkesanan nuzriah sebagai instrumen perancangan harta juga bergantung kepada pematuhannya dengan kedua-dua undang-undang Sivil dan Islam.

Kata kunci: Ijtihad; pewarisan; nazar; nuzriah; undang-undang Islam di Singapura
Atomic layer deposition of TiN for the fabrication of nanomechanical resonators
Authors: Nelson-Fitzpatrick Nathan , Guthy Csaba , Poshtiban Somayyeh , Finley Eric , Harris Kenneth D. , Worfolk Brian J. , Evoy Stephane
Published: February 2013

Films of titanium nitride were grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD) over a range of temperatures from 120 °C to 300 °C, and their deposition rates were characterized by ellipsometry and reflectometry. The stress state of the films was evaluated by interferometry using a wafer bowing technique and varied from compressive (−18 MPa) to tensile (650 MPa). The crystal structure of the films was assessed by x-ray diffraction. The grain size varied with temperature in the range of 2–9 nm. The chemical composition of the films was ascertained by high-resolution x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and showed the presence of O, Cl, and C contaminants. A mildly tensile (250 MPa) stressed film was employed for the fabrication (by electron beam lithography and reactive ion etching) of doubly clamped nanoresonator beams. The resonance frequency of resonators was assayed using an interferometric resonance testing apparatus. The devices exhibited sharp mechanical resonance peaks in the 17–25 MHz range. The uniformity and controllable deposition rate of ALD films make them ideal candidate materials for the fabrication of ultranarrow (<50 nm) nanobeam structures.
Lineage Structure of the Human Antibody Repertoire in Response to Influenza Vaccination
Authors: Jiang Ning , He Jiankui , Weinstein Joshua A. , Penland Lolita , Sasaki Sanae , He Xiao-Song , Dekker Cornelia L. , Zheng Nai-Ying , Huang Min , Sullivan Meghan , Wilson Patrick C. , Greenberg Harry B. , Davis Mark M. , Fisher Daniel S. , Quake Stephen R.
Published: February 2013

High-throughput sequencing suggests age-related differences in the changes in the human antibody repertoire after influenza vaccination.
Tangled Up in Nanofibers
Authors: Collier Joel H.
Published: February 2013

Self-assembled peptide nanofibers are capable of manipulating viruses.
Modeling a Failing Heart Right in the Dish
Authors: Nahrendorf Matthias
Published: February 2013

Patient-derived iPS cells recapitulate the pathological features of ARD/C (arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia).
Software for Dosage Individualization of Voriconazole for Immunocompromised Patients
Authors: Hope William W. , VanGuilder Michael , Donnelly J. Peter , Blijlevens Nicole M. A. , Brüggemann Roger J. M. , Jelliffe Roger W. , Neely Michael N.
Published: February 2013

The efficacy of voriconazole is potentially compromised by considerable pharmacokinetic variability. There are increasing insights into voriconazole concentrations that are safe and effective for treatment of invasive fungal infections. Therapeutic drug monitoring is increasingly advocated. Software to aid in the individualization of dosing would be an extremely useful clinical tool. We developed software to enable the individualization of voriconazole dosing to attain predefined serum concentration targets. The process of individualized voriconazole therapy was based on concepts of Bayesian stochastic adaptive control. Multiple-model dosage design with feedback control was used to calculate dosages that achieved desired concentration targets with maximum precision. The performance of the software program was assessed using the data from 10 recipients of an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) receiving intravenous (i.v.) voriconazole. The program was able to model the plasma concentrations with a high level of precision, despite the wide range of concentration trajectories and interindividual pharmacokinetic variability. The voriconazole concentrations predicted after the last dosages were largely concordant with those actually measured. Simulations provided an illustration of the way in which the software can be used to adjust dosages of patients falling outside desired concentration targets. This software appears to be an extremely useful tool to further optimize voriconazole therapy and aid in therapeutic drug monitoring. Further prospective studies are now required to define the utility of the controller in daily clinical practice.
Phospholipase C of Cryptococcus neoformans Regulates Homeostasis and Virulence by Providing Inositol Trisphosphate as a Substrate for Arg1 Kinase
Authors: Lev Sophie , Desmarini Desmarini , Li Cecilia , Chayakulkeeree Methee , Traven Ana , Sorrell Tania C. , Djordjevic Julianne T.
Published: February 2013

Phospholipase C (PLC) ofCryptococcus neoformans(CnPlc1) is crucial for virulence of this fungal pathogen. To investigate the mechanism of CnPlc1-mediated signaling, we established that phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) is a major CnPlc1 substrate, which is hydrolyzed to produce inositol trisphosphate (IP3). InSaccharomyces cerevisiae, Plc1-derived IP3is a substrate for the inositol polyphosphate kinase Arg82, which converts IP3to more complex inositol polyphosphates. In this study, we show that inC. neoformans, the enzyme encoded byARG1is the major IP3kinase, and we further demonstrate that catalytic activity of Arg1 is essential for cellular homeostasis and virulence in theGalleria mellonellainfection model. IP3content was reduced in the CnΔplc1mutant and markedly increased in the CnΔarg1mutant, while PIP2was increased in both mutants. The CnΔplc1and CnΔarg1mutants shared significant phenotypic similarity, including impaired thermotolerance, compromised cell walls, reduced capsule production and melanization, defective cell separation, and the inability to form mating filaments. In contrast to theS. cerevisiae ARG82deletion mutant (ScΔarg82) strain, the CnΔarg1mutant exhibited dramatically enlarged vacuoles indicative of excessive vacuolar fusion. In mammalian cells, PLC-derived IP3causes Ca2+release and calcineurin activation. Our data show that, unlike mammalian PLCs, CnPlc1 does not contribute significantly to calcineurin activation. Collectively, our findings provide the first evidence that the inositol polyphosphate anabolic pathway is essential for virulence ofC. neoformansand further show that production of IP3as a precursor for synthesis of more complex inositol polyphosphates is the key biochemical function of CnPlc1.
An unusual presentation of diabetic amyotrophy: myoclonus
Authors: Zaidi Syed Amir , Chhetri Suresh Kumar , Lekwuwa Godwin , Majeed Tahir
Published: February 2013

Diabetic amyotrophy is a distinctive form of diabetic neuropathy. It is characterised by a weakness and wasting of proximal muscles of the lower limbs with associated pain. We report a case of an elderly patient with unusual presentation of diabetic amyotrophy. He presented with myoclonic jerks and recurrent falls. Examination findings and electrophysiological studies were consistent with a diagnosis of diabetic amyotrophy. He responded well to steroids with marked improvement in strength of the lower limb muscles and complete resolution of myoclonic jerks. Diabetic amyotrophy presenting as myoclonic jerks has been rarely reported before.
Calcaneal osteosarcoma: a rare cause of heel pain in the paediatric population
Authors: Taslakian Bedros , Issa Ghada , Saab Raya , Jabbour Mark N , Khoury Nabil J
Published: February 2013

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary non-haemopoietic malignant bone tumour in children and adolescents. However, it rarely occurs in the calcaneus with only a few case reports in the literature. We report a case of a 14-year-old boy with calcaneal osteosarcoma, who presented with heel pain followed by swelling. The pain was initially thought to be related to a benign process and treated with analgesics, delaying the diagnosis. We discuss the clinical presentation, the differential diagnosis, multi-imaging and pathological findings of a calcaneal osteosarcoma, its clinical outcome and the importance of early diagnosis to improve outcome.
The use of local anaesthesia for intrauterine device insertion by health professionals in the UK
Authors: Akintomide Hannat , Sewell Robert D E , Stephenson Judith M
Published: February 2013

Background

Pain associated with the insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD) is a known barrier to intrauterine contraception use in the UK. It is good practice for health professionals to discuss pain relief and use with women prior to the insertion of an IUD.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of and reasons for and against the use of local anaesthesia (LA) for IUD insertion.

Methods

A survey was undertaken using paper questionnaires to determine LA use for IUD insertion by UK health professionals.

Results

Overall, approximately one quarter (n=129) of all respondents use LA routinely, one quarter hardly ever or never use LA, while the remaining half use it sometimes. Use of LA was more prevalent among health professionals who worked in integrated sexual and reproductive health and contraception-only services, compared to general practice. UK health professionals who hardly ever or never used LA for the insertion of IUDs were more likely to be working in general practice.

Conclusions

The results of this survey suggest that more UK health professionals need to routinely discuss pain relief and offer this to their patients prior to IUD insertion as part of the care pathway for patients who choose to use intrauterine contraception.
NONLINEAR SAINT–VENANT COMPATIBILITY CONDITIONS AND THE INTRINSIC APPROACH FOR NONLINEARLY ELASTIC PLATES
Authors: CIARLET PHILIPPE G. , MARDARE SORIN
Published: February 2013

Let ω be a simply connected planar domain. First, we give necessary and sufficient nonlinear compatibility conditions of Saint–Venant type guaranteeing that, given two 2 × 2 symmetric matrix fields (Eαβ) and (Fαβ) with components in L2(ω), there exists a vector field (ηi) with components η1, η2 ∈ H1(ω) and η3 ∈ H2(ω) such that ½(∂αηβ + ∂βηα + ∂αη3∂βη3) = Eαβ and ∂αβη3 = Fαβ in ω for α, β = 1, 2. Second, we show that the classical approach to the Neumann problem for a nonlinearly elastic plate can be recast as a minimization problem in terms of the new unknowns Eαβ = ½(∂αηβ + ∂βηα + ∂αη3∂βη3) ∈ L2(ω) and Fαβ = ∂αβη3 ∈ L2(ω) and that this problem has a solution in a manifold of symmetric matrix fields (Eαβ) and (Fαβ) whose components Eαβ ∈ L2(ω) and Fαβ ∈ L2(ω) satisfy the nonlinear Saint–Venant compatibility conditions mentioned above. We also show that the analysis of such an "intrinsic approach" naturally leads to a new nonlinear Korn's inequality.
PECULIAR SURFACE SIZE-EFFECTS IN NaCl NANO-CRYSTALS
Authors: KANA N. , KHAMLICH S. , KANA KANA J. B. , MAAZA M.
Published: February 2013

While the major target of this contribution was the stabilization of the theoretically predicted CsCl form of the sodium chloride which could exhibit a singular and peculiar metallic behavior, this study took advantage of the nano-scaled aspect of the synthesized NaCl to report for the first time in the literature, the size dependence of various thermodynamic parameters of nano-sized NaCl crystals. More accurately, size effect on vaporization temperature of NaCl nano-crystals has been conducted on NaCl nanoparticles exhibiting a net shape anisotropy. The investigated nano-scaled NaCl particles were micrometric in the basal plane while nanometric in the transversal direction. An obvious size variation of the vaporization temperature is observed experimentally in agreement with the theoretical predictions. Specifically, the vaporization temperature T V decreases from almost 1680 (bulk) to 1290 K (nano-sized): a relative decrease of nearly 23.5%. The T V ≈ T(χ) size dependence where χ is the relative molar concentration of the initial NaCl precursor was found to follow the form T V (° C ) ≈ 750.7χ2 - 340.1χ + 1002.
A SIMPLE METHOD OF APPLYING CARBON FOAM COATING FOR CARBON/CARBON COMPOSITES TO MODULATE CELL COMPATIBILITY
Authors: ZHANG LEILEI , LI HEJUN , LU JINHUA , WANG BIN , ZHAO XUENI , CAO SHENG , HE ZIBO , ZENG XIERONG
Published: February 2013

A simple slurry method was used to prepare carbon foam coatings on biomedical carbon/carbon composites to modulate the cell compatibility. The surface morphology and microstructure of the coatings were characterized and the effect of applying carbon foam coatings on cell morphology and cell proliferation was investigated. The results showed that the carbon foam coatings, consisting of carbon microspheres, resin carbon matrices and pores, covered the carbon/carbon composites entirely and uniformly with amorphous structures. There were large numbers of pores with a size ranging from submicron to tens of micrometers being found for the coatings. The cell culture experiments exhibited that both the cell spreading and the cell proliferation were improved after the preparation of the carbon foam coatings. It could be demonstrated that applying carbon foam coatings by a simple slurry method was an effective way to improve the cell compatibility of carbon/carbon composites.
STRUCTURE AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF InN THIN FILM GROWN ON SiC BY REACTIVE RF MAGNETRON SPUTTERING
Authors: AMIRHOSEINY M. , HASSAN Z. , NG S. S. , ALAHYARIZADEH G.
Published: February 2013

The structure and optical properties of InN thin film grown on 6H-SiC by reactive radio frequency magnetron sputtering were investigated. X-ray diffraction measurement shows that the deposited InN film has (101) preferred growth orientation and wurtzite structure. Atomic force microscopy results reveal smooth surface with root-mean-square roughness around 3.3 nm. One Raman-active optical phonon of E2(high) and two Raman- and infrared-active modes of A1(LO) and E1(TO) of the wurtzite InN are clearly observed at 488.7, 582.7 and 486 cm-1, respectively. These results leading to conclude that the wurtzite InN thin film with (101) preferred growth orientation was successfully grown on 6H-SiC substrate.
NONUNIQUENESS OF BV SOLUTIONS OF QUASILINEAR HYPERBOLIC SYSTEMS
Authors: YOUNG ROBIN
Published: February 2013

We construct examples of one-dimensional quasilinear hyperbolic systems for which the constant state and Riemann problem are unstable under O(1) perturbations in the space BV. We generate a system and solution consisting of three compressions which focus at the same point, resulting in a nonlinear interaction from which no waves emerge. Since this solution is time-reversible, this leads to nontrivial solutions of the system with constant initial data. These solutions are classical in the sense that they do not contain shocks and are discontinuous only at the origin. We then find some elementary necessary conditions for a system in conservative form to exhibit this type of behavior.
A modified random walk framework for handling negative ratings and generating explanations
Authors: Chen Yu-Chih , Lin Yu-Shi , Shen Yu-Chun , Lin Shou-De
Published: February 2013

The concept of random walk (RW) has been widely applied in the design of recommendation systems. RW-based approaches are effective in handling locality problem and taking extra information, such as the relationships between items or users, into consideration. However, the traditional RW-based approach has a serious limitation in handling bidirectional opinions. The propagation of positive and negative information simultaneously in a graph is nontrivial using random walk. To address the problem, this article presents a novel and efficient RW-based model that can handle both positive and negative comments with the guarantee of convergence. Furthermore, we argue that a good recommendation system should provide users not only a list of recommended items but also reasonable explanations for the decisions. Therefore, we propose a technique that generates explanations by backtracking the influential paths and subgraphs. The results of experiments on the MovieLens and Netflix datasets show that our model significantly outperforms state-of-the-art RW-based algorithms, and is capable of improving the overall performance in the ensemble with other models.
The Effect of Social and Physical Detachment on Information Need
Authors: Yom-Tov Elad , Diaz Fernando
Published: February 2013

The information need of users and the documents which answer this need are frequently contingent on the different characteristics of users. This is especially evident during natural disasters, such as earthquakes and violent weather incidents, which create a strong transient information need. In this article, we investigate how the information need of users, as expressed by their queries, is affected by their physical detachment, as estimated by their physical location in relation to that of the event, and by their social detachment, as quantified by the number of their acquaintances who may be affected by the event. Drawing on large-scale data from ten major events, we show that social and physical detachment levels of users are a major influence on their search engine queries. We demonstrate how knowing social and physical detachment levels can assist in improving retrieval for two applications: identifying search queries related to events and ranking results in response to event-related queries. We find that the average precision in identifying relevant search queries improves by approximately 18%, and that the average precision of ranking that uses detachment information improves by 10%. Using both types of detachment achieved a larger gain in performance than each of them separately.
Temporal dynamics of divided spatial attention
Authors: Itthipuripat Sirawaj , Garcia Javier O. , Serences John T.
Published: February 2013

In naturalistic settings, observers often have to monitor multiple objects dispersed throughout the visual scene. However, the degree to which spatial attention can be divided across spatially noncontiguous objects has long been debated, particularly when those objects are in close proximity. Moreover, the temporal dynamics of divided attention are unclear: is the process of dividing spatial attention gradual and continuous, or does it onset in a discrete manner? To address these issues, we recorded steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) as subjects covertly monitored two flickering targets while ignoring an intervening distractor that flickered at a different frequency. All three stimuli were clustered within either the lower left or the lower right quadrant, and our dependent measure was SSVEP power at the target and distractor frequencies measured over time. In two experiments, we observed a temporally discrete increase in power for target- vs. distractor-evoked SSVEPs extending from ∼350 to 150 ms prior to correct (but not incorrect) responses. The divergence in SSVEP power immediately prior to a correct response suggests that spatial attention can be divided across noncontiguous locations, even when the targets are closely spaced within a single quadrant. In addition, the division of spatial attention appears to be relatively discrete, as opposed to slow and continuous. Finally, the predictive relationship between SSVEP power and behavior demonstrates that these neurophysiological measures of divided attention are meaningfully related to cognitive function.
Shape Control of CdTe Nanocrystals: Influence of the Solvent Composition and Ligand Effects
Authors: Jin Xiaoping , Parisi Jürgen , Kolny-Olesiak Joanna
Published: February 2013

CdTe nanocrystals were synthesized by the hot-injection method with a mixture of oleylamine and octadecene as a solvent. The influence of the composition of the solvent and of the injection solution on the shape of CdTe nanoparticles was investigated. Various shapes of CdTe nanocrystals, such as nanodots, nanorods, multipods, and nanowires, could be obtained by changing the reaction conditions. Tuning the reactivity of both the cadmium and the tellurium precursors at the same time was found to be the main reason for the shape control of CdTe nanocrystals in this reaction system. The reactivity of the Cd precursor was controlled by the composition of the solvent, while the activity of the Te precursor could be influenced by using trioctylphosphine and tributylphosphine in the injection solution.
Stab Injury of the Thoracic Aorta: Computed Tomography Findings
Authors: Yildiz Seyma , Toprak Huseyin , Serter Asli , Kocakoç Ercan
Published: February 2013

Stab injury of the thoracic aorta is a rare condition with high mortality rate. Patients must be evaluated carefully, and the diagnosis usually should be confirmed by radiological modalities. In this case, we report a 37-year-old man presented with a penetrating stab injury to the upper back and the thoracic aorta, and the diagnostic role of computed tomography is discussed.
Advanced Imaging Modalities in the Detection of Cerebral Vasospasm
Authors: Mills Jena N. , Mehta Vivek , Russin Jonathan , Amar Arun P. , Rajamohan Anandh , Mack William J.
Published: February 2013

The pathophysiology of cerebral vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is complex and is not entirely understood. Mechanistic insights have been gained through advances in the capabilities of diagnostic imaging. Core techniques have focused on the assessment of vessel caliber, tissue metabolism, and/or regional perfusion parameters. Advances in imaging have provided clinicians with a multifaceted approach to assist in the detection of cerebral vasospasm and the diagnosis of delayed ischemic neurologic deficits (DIND). However, a single test or algorithm with broad efficacy remains elusive. This paper examines both anatomical and physiological imaging modalities applicable to post-SAH vasospasm and offers a historical background. We consider cerebral blood flow velocities measured by Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonography (TCD). Structural imaging techniques, including catheter-based Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA), CT Angiography (CTA), and MR Angiography (MRA), are reviewed. We examine physiologic assessment by PET, HMPAO SPECT,133Xe Clearance, Xenon-Enhanced CT (Xe/CT), Perfusion CT (PCT), and Diffusion-Weighted/MR Perfusion Imaging. Comparative advantages and limitations are discussed.
Cutaneous Plasmablastic Lymphoma in an Immunocompetent Patient with Long-Term Pyrimethamine Use for Essential Thrombocythemia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tiong Ing Soo , Strauss Magreet , Lau Michael B. Y. , Chiruka Shingirai
Published: February 2013

We report a case of Epstein-Barr-virus-(EBV-) positive primary cutaneous plasmablastic lymphoma in a human-immunodeficiency-virus-(HIV-) negative, immunocompetent 62-year-old female patient. We postulate that her lymphoma development is due to the longstanding use of pyrimethamine for essential thrombocythemia. This has never been described in the literature.
Holey Perfect Mendelsohn Designs of Type 2nu1 with Block Size Four
Authors: Zhang Hantao
Published: February 2013

Let 4-HPMD denote a holey perfect Mendelsohn design with block size four. The existence of 4-HPMDs with n holes of size 2 and one hole of size 3, that is, of type 2n31, was established by Bennett et al. in 1997. In this paper, we investigate the existence of 4-HPMDs of type 2nu1 for 1≤u≤16: a 4-HPMD(2nu1) exists if and only if n≥max(4,u+1), except possibly for (n,u)=(7,5), (7, 6), (11, 9), (11, 10). We also investigate the existence of 4-HPMD(2nu1) for general u and prove that there exists a 4-HPMD(2nu1) for all n≥⌈5u/4⌉+4. Moreover, if u≥35, then a 4-HPMD(2nu1) exists for all n≥⌈5u/4⌉+1; if u≥95, then a 4-HPMD(2nu1) exists for all n≥⌈5u/4⌉−2.
Reliability Model of Mechanical Components with Dependent Failure Modes
Authors: Wang Shijie
Published: February 2013

A mechanical component may fail in many modes that are usually not independent. There is generally not a joint probability density function to describe these correlated failure modes. Thus, it is difficult to compute the reliability when considering the correlations between the failure modes. It is supposed that three or more failure modes arise synchronously to be a very small probability event. The relationship between ultimate state functions in different failure modes is established by utilizing linear regression method. A double integration model for reliability of mechanical components with dependent failure modes is built according to stress-strength interference model. In case of square, cube, or exponential relationship between two ultimate state functions, a linear transformation is made. An example of pin that may fail in shear fracture, bruise, or both is discussed. The reliability is compared with that obtained by using Monte Carlo method, which represents that the reliability model with dependent failure modes proposed is correct.
Neisseria siccaEndocarditis Complicated by Intracranial and Popliteal Aneurysms in a Patient with a Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Authors: Debellemanière Guillaume , Chirouze Catherine , Hustache-Mathieu Laurent , Fournier Damien , Biondi Alessandra , Hoen Bruno
Published: February 2013

We report a case of infective endocarditis due toNeisseria siccacomplicated by intracranial and popliteal aneurysms and hepatic and splenic infarcts in a patient with a bicuspid aortic valve. No predisposing factor other than poor dental condition was found. The patient fully recovered after antibiotic therapy, aortic and mitral valve replacement, endovascular occlusion of the middle-cerebral artery aneurysm, and surgical treatment of the popliteal artery aneurysm.
Concurrent Adrenal Neuroblastoma and Kawasaki Disease: A Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Alavi Samin , Fahimzad Alireza , Jadali Farzaneh , Ghazizadeh Farid , Rashidi Armin
Published: February 2013

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a systemic vasculitis of unknown etiology and a leading cause of acquired heart disease. It is assumed that there is an activation of the immune system by an infectious trigger in a genetically susceptible host. Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor in young children. It mainly originates from primordial neural crest cells that generate the adrenal medulla and sympathetic ganglia. A diagnosis of concurrent KD and neuroblastoma in a living child has been made in only one previous report. We report the second case and review the literature.
Predictive Factors for Bladder Recurrence after Radical Nephroureterectomy for Upper Urinary Tract Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Cho Dae Sung , Kim Sun Il , Ahn Hyun Soo , Kim Se Joong
Published: February 2013

Introduction: To identify predictive factors for developing subsequent bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC) in patients undergoing radical nephroureterectomy for the treatment of upper urinary tract UC (UUT-UC). Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 78 patients with clinically localized UUT-UC who had undergone operation at our institution between June 1994 and December 2009. Univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to determine the predictive factors. Results: Out of a total of 78 patients, 14 (17.9%) developed bladder UC after radical nephroureterectomy at a median interval of 10 months (range: 3-46). Of these 14 patients, 11 (78.6%) experienced bladder recurrence within the first 2 years of follow-up. All 14 patients (100%) had non-muscle-invasive bladder UC and 10 patients (71.4%) had high-grade tumors. The univariate analysis identified preoperative voided urine cytology, tumor configuration, and adjuvant systemic chemotherapy as significant predictive factors for bladder recurrence, whereas the multivariate analysis indicated that only preoperative voided urine cytology was an independent predictive factor. Conclusions: Positive preoperative voided urine cytology is an independent predictor for bladder recurrence after radical nephroureterectomy for UUT-UC. Therefore, closer surveillance of the bladder is necessary, especially in patients with positive preoperative urine cytology.
Urinary Fluoride Excretion in 6- to 7-Year-Olds Ingesting Milk Containing 0.5 or 0.9 mg Fluoride
Authors: Maguire A. , Walls R. , Steen N. , Teasdale L. , Landes D. , Omid N. , Moynihan P. , Zohoori F.V.
Published: February 2013

Effectiveness of 0.5 mg fluoride (F) milk ingestion in preventing caries has been termed only ‘moderate’. In this 3-arm partial cross-over intervention, 32 children aged 6–7 years in a non-F area were recruited and urinary F excretion (UFE) measured before and after ingestion of 0.5 or 0.9 mg F milk. Maintaining customary dietary and oral hygiene habits, children underwent a 2-week ‘wash-in’ with non-F milk, providing a 24-hour urine sample on day 4 of non-F (baseline) and F milk ingestion containing either (i) 0.5 mg or (ii) 0.9 mg F (intervention). A comparative group of thirteen 6- to 7-year-olds living in fluoridated areas provided a 24-hour urine sample on day 4 of daily non-F milk ingestion, following a 2-week non-F milk wash-in. Valid urine samples were analysed for F and UFE estimated from corrected 24-hour urine volume and F concentration. For the 24 test children providing 2 valid urine samples, mean (95% CI) change in corrected 24-hour UFE was 0.130 (0.049, 0.211) and 0.153 (0.062, 0.245) mg/day for 0.5 mg (p < 0.007) and 0.9 mg F (p < 0.001) groups, respectively. Post-intervention, mean (SD) corrected 24-hour UFE was 0.437 (0.153) mg/day and 0.420 (0.188) mg/day for the 0.5 and 0.9 mg F groups, respectively, which were lower than the WHO provisional standards (0.48–0.60 mg F/day). F milk consumption significantly increased UFE; however, the F content of 0.5 and 0.9 mg F milk may be too low to achieve WHO provisional UFE standards concomitant with optimal F exposure in children aged ≥6 years.