bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of the scientific evidence for biofilms in wounds
Authors: Percival Steven L. , Hill Katja E. , Williams David W. , Hooper Samuel J. , Thomas Dave W. , Costerton John W.
Published: September 2012

Both chronic and acute dermal wounds are susceptible to infection due to sterile loss of the innate barrier function of the skin and dermal appendages, facilitating the development of microbial communities, referred to as biofilms, within the wound environment. Microbial biofilms are implicated in both the infection of wounds and failure of those wounds to heal. The aim of this review is to provide a summary of published papers detailing biofilms in wounds, the effect they have on infection and wound healing, and detailing methods employed for their detection. The studies highlighted within this paper provide evidence that biofilms reside within the chronic wound and represent an important mechanism underlying the observed, delayed healing and infection. The reasons for this include both protease activity and immunological suppression. Furthermore, a lack of responsiveness to an array of antimicrobial agents has been due to the biofilms’ ability to inherently resist antimicrobial agents. It is imperative that effective strategies are developed, tested prospectively, and employed in chronic wounds to support the healing process and to reduce infection rates. It is increasingly apparent that adoption of a biofilm‐based management approach to wound care, utilizing the “antibiofilm tool box” of therapies, to kill and prevent reattachment of microorganisms in the biofilm is producing the most positive clinical outcomes and prevention of infection.
Systematic Review of Bone Health in Older Women Treated with Aromatase Inhibitors for Early‐Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Becker Taryn , Lipscombe Lorraine , Narod Steven , Simmons Christine , Anderson Geoffrey M. , Rochon Paula A.
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To review data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluate adverse bone outcomes in older women using aromatase inhibitors (AIs) for early‐stage hormone receptor–positive breast cancer.

Design

Systematic review.

Setting

International RCTs referenced in Medline and EMBASE databases through August 1, 2011.

Participants

Postmenopausal women with early‐stage hormone receptor–positive breast cancer receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy.

Measurements

Fracture rates and changes in bone turnover markers and bone mineral density.

Results

Eleven RCTs were identified. The majority of trials included women with a mean age in the 60s; and women aged 75 and older and 80 and older were excluded from two studies. Fracture rates ranged from 0.9% to 11%, with AIs having a 1.5 times higher risk than tamoxifen or placebo. Fracture data were not systematically collected in many of these trials. In a small subpopulation of women, AIs were associated with higher markers of bone turnover and lower bone density. The relationship between age and fracture was not described.

Conclusion

AIs are associated with low bone density and high fracture risk in women with a mean age in their early 60s. There is a paucity of data describing the effect of baseline fracture risk factors, particularly age, and the longer‐term effects on bone health in older women. Future research is needed regarding baseline fracture risk, interventions, and long‐term effects on bone in this vulnerable population to inform management decisions to optimize AI duration and ensure quality of life after breast cancer.
Effect of Micro‐Additions of Carbon Nanotubes to Polymethylmethacrylate on Reduction in Polymerization Shrinkage
Authors: Turagam Neeraja , Prasad Mudrakola Durga
Published: September 2012

Purpose: Carbon nanotubes are used in dentistry, although there are no adequate scientific data to support their use in acrylic resins. The polymerization shrinkage that occurs with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) resins is well known. This study compared the polymerization shrinkage of denture base acrylic resin with and without micro‐additions of carbon nanotubes.

Materials and Methods: Two materials were used, PMMA resin and multiwalled carbon nanotubes. Four groups were established of 10 specimens each according to the weight percent of carbon nanotubes dispersed and disintegrated in the monomer: group I (0.5% of carbon nanotubes in monomer), II (0.25%), III (0.125%), and IV (control group, 0%). The polymerization shrinkage of acrylic resin for each group was evaluated based on the distance between the reference points in wax (before polymerization) and in acrylic (after polymerization), measured using a traveling microscope. The data were submitted to Kruskal‐Wallis and one‐way ANOVA for comparison among the groups, and the results were statistically analyzed.

Results: The Kruskal‐Wallis test detected that the different percentages of carbon nanotubes incorporated in the monomer showed significant differences, and the mean ranks of polymerization shrinkage (%) showed differences among all the groups (group IV = 0.126, III = 0.037, II = 0.017, I = 0.006). Hence, the order of severity of polymerization shrinkage was 0% > 0.125% > 0.25% > 0.5% for the amount of carbon nanotubes incorporated in methylmethacrylate.

Conclusion: The present study was done to prove polymerization shrinkage in PMMA resins with micro‐additions of carbon nanotubes. The results clearly show reduction in polymerization shrinkage when carbon nanotubes are incorporated into the PMMA resin.
Effect of Mica Reinforcement on the Flexural Strength and Microhardness of Polymethyl Methacrylate Denture Resin
Authors: Mansour Mohamed M. , Wagner Warren C. , Chu Tien‐Min G.
Published: September 2012

Purpose: Conventional denture base polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is low in strength, soft, and brittle on impact. Improvements in the mechanical properties of denture base materials have been sought by adding different reinforcing phases to the PMMA matrix. The purpose of this work was to study the effects of mica reinforcement on the mechanical properties, flexural strength, and microhardness of PMMA denture base resin.

Materials and Methods: Wet ground muscovite mica and Lucitone 199 original shade denture base resin were used. Two micas were tested: W200 and P66 with average particle sizes (d50) of 131 μm and 30 μm, respectively. The mica was silane treated in a solution of 3‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane, ethanol, and water, and then dried. The specimens were fabricated using the denture base resin manufacturer's instructions with a powder : liquid ratio of 21 g/10 ml and a mixing time of 30 seconds. Five treatment groups were produced with differing amounts of mica added to the PMMA denture base resin: (A) control group with 0 vol% mica, (B) 10 vol% W200 mica, (C) 20 vol% W200 mica, (D) 10 vol% P66 mica, (E) 20 vol% P66 mica. The mica replaced equal volumes of the PMMA powder component to minimize changes in viscosity. The three‐point bending flexural strength specimens were 70 × 11 × 3 mm3. Seven specimens were prepared for each treatment group. The hardness specimens were prepared from the ends of the three‐point bend specimens after they were broken (N = 7). After deflasking, the specimens were polished with 600 grit silicon carbide paper to achieve smooth surfaces. A standard three‐point bending jig with a span length of 50 mm was attached to an Instron universal testing machine. The specimens were placed on the jig, and loading was carried out using a 1 mm/min crosshead speed until failure. Microhardness was measured using a Clark microhardness tester with a Knoop indenter. The load was set to 200 g and the dwell time to 15 seconds. ANOVA and Tukey tests were used for statistical analyses (Alpha = 0.05).

Results: The flexural strength of the control group was between 77% and 94% higher than all the mica‐containing groups (p≤ 0.05). No significant differences were found within the four mica groups. Microhardnesses of the 20% mica groups (both fine and coarse) were 33% and 26% higher than the control (p≤ 0.05). The 10% mica groups had higher hardness than the control group, but the increase was not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Mica additions to denture PMMA reduced flexural strength; however, with the specimens containing highest mica concentrations (20%), microhardness significantly increased.
Modeling Population Immunity to Support Efforts to End the Transmission of Live Polioviruses
Authors: Thompson Kimberly M. , Pallansch Mark A. , Tebbens Radboud J. Duintjer , Wassilak Steve G. , Cochi Stephen L.
Published: September 2012

Eradication of wild poliovirus (WPV) types 1 and 3, prevention and cessation of circulating vaccine‐derived polioviruses, and achievement and maintenance of a world free of paralytic polio cases requires active risk management by focusing on population immunity and coordinated cessation of oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV). We suggest the need for a complementary and different conceptual approach to achieve eradication compared to the current case‐based approach using surveillance for acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) to identify symptomatic poliovirus infections. Specifically, we describe a modeling approach to characterize overall population immunity to poliovirus transmission. The approach deals with the realities that exposure to live polioviruses (e.g., WPV, OPV) and/or vaccination with inactivated poliovirus vaccine provides protection from paralytic polio (i.e., disease), but does not eliminate the potential for reinfection or asymptomatic participation in poliovirus transmission, which may increase with time because of waning immunity. The AFP surveillance system provides evidence of symptomatic poliovirus infections detected, which indicate immunity gaps after outbreaks occur, and this system represents an appropriate focus for controlling disease outbreaks. We describe a conceptual dynamic model to characterize population immunity to poliovirus transmission that helps identify risks created by immunity gaps before outbreaks occur, which provides an opportunity for national and global policymakers to manage the risk of poliovirus and prevent outbreaks before they occur. We suggest that dynamically modeling risk represents an essential tool as the number of cases approaches zero.
“Varieties of minimum wage system” through the dubious lens of indicator‐based rankings
Authors: LEE Sangheon
Published: September 2012

Growing interest in the impact of labour regulations on labour market performance has prompted attempts to quantify labour standards for cross‐country comparison. While recognizing the contribution of such quantification to empirical research, this article takes issue with indicators that purport to rank countries' regulatory regimes. With reference to the minimum wage component of the World Bank's Doing Business indicators, the author identifies major limitations of this device – theoretical bias, measurement error, disregard of institutional particulars and failure to account for regulatory indeterminacy. His examination of minimum wage systems concludes with an argument against the grounding of policy decisions on indicator‐based rankings.
Empleo de baja remuneración en Sudáfrica
Authors: OOSTHUIZEN Morné
Published: September 2012

Existen abundantes estudios sobre niveles salariales en Sudáfrica, pero pocos sobre el empleo de baja remuneración, como el presente artículo. Tras proponer diferentes umbrales como referencia, el autor estima la frecuencia de este tipo de empleo en el país entre trabajadores asalariados de 2001 a 2007 y analiza algunos de los factores asociados a la probabilidad de ocuparlo. A continuación investiga los efectos de los salarios mínimos establecidos por el Ministerio de Trabajo mediante normativas sectoriales (cotejándolos con datos de la Encuesta de Población Activa), y también de la negociación colectiva, que parece reducir la frecuencia del empleo de baja remuneración.
Empleo de baja remuneración en el Brasil
Authors: FONTES Adriana , PERO Valéria , BERG Janine
Published: September 2012

El empleo de baja remuneración en países en desarrollo es un problema prevalente y poco analizado. Las autoras emprenden un estudio sobre su frecuencia, persistencia y características en áreas metropolitanas brasileñas de 2002 a 2009. Observan un descenso de la tasa de baja remuneración del 24,4 al 21,5 por ciento entre los asalariados. Como en países de renta elevada, las categorías de trabajadores más frecuentes encontradas en este tipo de empleo son las mujeres, las personas de color, los jóvenes y los menos calificados. La experiencia laboral parece mejorar las perspectivas profesionales incluso para los asalariados con baja remuneración.
Baja remuneración y fracaso de las políticas aplicadas en la República de Corea
Authors: HWANG Deok Soon , LEE Byung‐Hee
Published: September 2012

A pesar de la implantación y mejora de la negociación colectiva, el salario mínimo y las prestaciones sociales vinculadas al empleo, la baja remuneración es cada vez más frecuente en la República de Corea, en contradicción con las conclusiones de numerosos estudios, incluido el Informe mundial sobre salarios 2010/2011 de la OIT. Los autores examinan esta paradoja coreana y concluyen que, si bien se adoptaron las políticas adecuadas, su eficacia se vio limitada por una cobertura escasa y un nivel de prestaciones insuficiente. Ello representa un fallo del mercado de trabajo y un fracaso de las propias políticas.
The uphill battle ahead for ‘responsible capitalism’
Authors: Curtice John
Published: September 2012

In his regular column for Juncture, John Curtice reviews the latest findings of the British Social Attitudes survey, which suggest that the recession and economic downturn have – perhaps surprisingly – done little to engender support for more active government.
Innate immune responses to TLR2 and TLR4 agonists differ between baboons, chimpanzees and humans
Authors: Brinkworth J.F. , Pechenkina E.A. , Silver J. , Goyert S.M.
Published: September 2012

Background

African catarrhine primates differ in bacterial disease susceptibility.

Methods

Human, chimpanzee, and baboon blood were stimulated with TLR‐detected bacterial agonists and cytokine/chemokine induction assessed by real‐time PCR.

Results

Humans and chimpanzees shared similar cytokine/chemokine responses, while baboon cytokine/chemokine induction differed. Generally, responses were agonist independent.

Conclusions

These primates tend to generate species rather than agonist‐specific responses to bacterial agonists.
Problematizing health coaching for chronic illness self‐management
Authors: Howard Lisa M , Ceci Christine
Published: September 2012

To address the growing costs associated with chronic illness care, many countries, both developed and developing, identify increased patient self‐management or self‐care as a focus of healthcare reform. Health coaching, an implementation strategy to support the shift to self‐management, encourages patients to make lifestyle changes to improve the management of chronic illness. This practice differs from traditional models of health education because of the interactional dynamics between nurse and patient, and an orientation to care that ostensibly centres and empowers patients. The theoretical underpinnings of coaching reflect these differences, however in its application, the practices arranged around health coaching for chronic illness self‐management reveal the social regulation and professional management of everyday life. This becomes especially problematic in contexts defined by economic constraint and government withdrawal from activities related to the ‘care’ of citizens. In this paper, we trace the development of health coaching as part of nursing practice and consider the implications of this practice as an emerging element of chronic illness self‐management. Our purpose is to highlight health coaching as an approach intended to support patients with chronic illness and at the same time, problematize the tensions contained in (and by) this practice.
Full-Coverage Film Cooling: Film Effectiveness and Heat Transfer Coefficients for Dense and Sparse Hole Arrays at Different Blowing Ratios
Authors: Ligrani Phil , Goodro Matt , Fox Mike , Moon Hee-Koo
Published: September 2012

Experimental results are presented for a full coverage film cooling arrangement which simulates a portion of a gas turbine engine, with appropriate streamwise static pressure gradient and varying blowing ratio along the length of the contraction passage which contains the cooling hole arrangement. Film cooling holes are sharp-edged, streamwise inclined at 20 deg with respect to the liner surface, and are arranged with a length to diameter ratio of 8.35. The film cooling holes in adjacent streamwise rows are staggered with respect to each other. Data are provided for turbulent film cooling, contraction ratios of 1 and 4, blowing ratios (at the test section entrance) of 2.0, 5.0, and 10.0, coolant Reynolds numbers Refc from 10,000 to 12,000 (for a blowing ratio of 5.0), freestream temperatures from 75 °C to 115 °C, a film hole diameter of 7 mm, and density ratios from 1.15 to 1.25. Changes to X/D and Y/D, nondimensional streamwise and spanwise film cooling hole spacings, with Y/D of 3, 5, and 7, and with X/D of 6 and 18, are considered. For all X/D=6 hole spacings, only a slight increase in effectiveness (local, line-averaged, and spatially-averaged) values are present as the blowing ratio increases from 2.0 to 5.0, with no significant differences when the blowing ratio increases from 5.0 to 10.0. This lack of dependence on blowing ratio indicates a condition where excess coolant is injected into the mainstream flow, a situation not evidenced by data obtained with the X/D=18 hole spacing arrangement. With this sparse array configuration, local and spatially-averaged effectiveness generally increase continually as the blowing ratio becomes larger. Line-averaged and spatially-averaged heat transfer coefficients are generally higher at each streamwise location, also with larger variations with streamwise development, with the X/D=6 hole array, compared to the X/D=18 array.
Curve Decomposition for Large Deflection Analysis of Fixed-Guided Beams With Application to Statically Balanced Compliant Mechanisms
Authors: Kim Charles , Ebenstein Donna
Published: September 2012

Statically balanced compliant mechanisms require no holding force throughout their range of motion while maintaining the advantages of compliant mechanisms. In this paper, a postbuckled fixed-guided beam is proposed to provide the negative stiffness to balance the positive stiffness of a compliant mechanism. To that end, a curve decomposition modeling method is presented to simplify the large deflection analysis. The modeling method facilitates parametric design insight and elucidates key points on the force–deflection curve. Experimental results validate the analysis. Furthermore, static balancing with fixed-guided beams is demonstrated for a rectilinear proof-of-concept prototype.
ATTRACTORS AND THEIR INVISIBLE PARTS FOR SKEW PRODUCTS WITH HIGH DIMENSIONAL FIBER
Authors: GHANE F. H. , NAZARI M. , SALEH M. , SHABANI Z.
Published: September 2012

In this article, we study statistical attractors of skew products which have an m-dimensional compact manifold M as a fiber and their ε-invisible subsets. For any n ≥ 100 m2, m = dim (M), we construct a set [Formula: see text] in the space of skew products over the horseshoe with the fiber M having the following properties. Each C2-skew product from [Formula: see text] possesses a statistical attractor with an ε-invisible part, for an extraordinary value of ε (ε = (m + 1)-n), whose size of invisibility is comparable to that of the whole attractor, and the Lipschitz constants of the map and its inverse are no longer than L. The set [Formula: see text] is a ball of radius O(n-3) in the space of skew products over the horseshoe with the C1-metric. In particular, small perturbations of these skew products in the space of all diffeomorphisms still have attractors with the same properties. Moreover, for skew products which have an m-sphere as a fiber, it consists of structurally stable skew products. Our construction develops the example of [Ilyashenko & Negut, 2010] to skew products which have an m-dimensional compact manifold as a fiber, m ≥ 2.
CHAOS SYNCHRONIZATION OF CHEN SYSTEMS WITH TIME-VARYING DELAYS
Authors: TANG JIANENG , ZOU CAIRONG , WANG SHAOPING , ZHAO LI , LIU PINGXIANG
Published: September 2012

In this paper, the synchronization problem of Chen systems with time-varying delays is discussed based on the stability theory of time-delay systems. Through the analysis of the error dynamical systems, the time-delay correlative synchronization controller is designed to achieve chaos synchronization. And finally, numerical simulations are provided to verify the effectiveness and feasibility of the developed method.
ESSENTIAL ENTROPY-CARRYING HORSESHOES AS SET LIMITS
Authors: PEDERSON STEVEN M.
Published: September 2012

This paper studies the set limit of a sequence of invariant sets corresponding to a convergent sequence of piecewise monotone interval maps. To do this, the notion of essential entropy-carrying set is introduced. A piecewise monotone map f with an essential entropy-carrying horseshoe S(f) and a sequence of piecewise monotone maps [Formula: see text] converging to f is considered. It is proven that if each gi has an invariant set T(gi) with at least as much topological entropy as f, then the set limit of [Formula: see text] contains S(f).
GENERALIZED HOPF BIFURCATION IN A FREQUENCY DOMAIN FORMULATION
Authors: TORRESI A. M. , CALANDRINI G. L. , BONFILI P. A. , MOIOLA J. L.
Published: September 2012

The multiplicity problem of limit cycles arising from a weak focus is addressed. The proposed methodology is a combination of the frequency domain method to handle some degenerate Hopf bifurcations with the powerful tools of the singularity theory. The frequency domain approach uses the harmonic balance method to study the existence of periodic solutions. On the other hand, the singularity theory provides the conditions and formulas for the classification problem of the unfolding of the singularity in terms of the distinguished and auxiliary parameters. A classical example introduced by Bautin is shown in which the multiplicity of limit cycles is recovered by using this type of hybrid methodology and standard software in the continuation of periodic solutions (LOCBIF and XPPAUT). For small amplitude limit cycles, the proposed methodology gives accurate results.
ANALYTIC CENTER OF NILPOTENT CRITICAL POINTS
Authors: LIU TAO , WU LIANGGANG , LI FENG
Published: September 2012

For third-order nilpotent critical points of a planar dynamical system, the analytic center problem is completely solved in this article by using the integrating factor method. The associated quasi-Lyapunov constants are defined and their computation method is given. For a class of cubic-order systems under small perturbations, sufficient and necessary conditions for an analytic center are obtained.
ON JONES POLYNOMIALS OF ALTERNATING PRETZEL KNOTS
Authors: HARA MASAO , YAMAMOTO MAKOTO
Published: September 2012

We show that there are infinitely many pairs of alternating pretzel knots whose Jones polynomials are identical.
MULTIFRACTAL ANALYSIS OF CHARGED PARTICLE DISTRIBUTION IN 28Si-Ag/Br INTERACTION AT 14.5A GeV
Authors: MALI P. , MUKHOPADHYAY A. , SINGH G.
Published: September 2012

The multifractal structure of one dimensional charged particle density distribution in 28 Si-Ag / Br interactions at 14.5 GeV per nucleon is investigated by using two different techniques. The experimental measurements are compared with a microscopic transport model of particle production based on the Ultra-relativistic Quantum Molecular Dynamics (UrQMD). Various parameters related to multifractality, for example the Lévy's index, are obtained. Our analysis shows that multifractal structure is present both in the experiment as well as in the simulation. As far as the self-similar nature of the density fluctuation is concerned, there exists, however, a small but definite quantitative difference between the two.
EFFECT OF SURFACTANTS ON THE SIZE, COLOR, PHOTOLUMINESCENCE AND RESISTIVITY OF INDIUM TIN OXIDE NANOPARTICLES PREPARED BY CO-PRECIPITATION METHOD
Authors: JAFARI AYYOOB , GANJKHANLOU YADOLAH , KAZEMZAD MAHMOOD , GHORBANI HAMZEH
Published: September 2012

Indium tin oxide (ITO) nanoparticles were synthesized by co-precipitation method using ammonia as a precipitator in absence/presence of various surfactants (LABS and Triton X-100). The synthesized nanoparticles were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, resistance measurement, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) techniques. The XRD patterns of nanoparticles were also studied by Rietveld refinement method for calculation of crystallite size, micro-strain and lattice parameter. The results indicate that by application of LABS and Triton X-100 as surfactant the particle size was increased. Two luminescence bands were observed in PL spectra of ITO nanoparticles with the excitation energy lower than their band gaps. It was found that the ratios of luminescence bands have relation with resistances and colors of ITO nanoparticles. In addition, the band structure of ITO nanoparticles was described considering the obtained results.
INTERFACE ELECTRON STRUCTURE OFTiC–NiAlCOMPOSITES
Authors: TIAN X.-F. , ZHANG W.-K. , QI Y.
Published: September 2012

Intermetallic matrix composites reinforced with ceramic particles such as TiC have received increasing attention in recent years due to the combined potential of ceramics and intermetallics to give a desirable balance of properties. But an understanding of some experimental results presented elsewhere has remained elusive. In this communication, interface valence electron structure of TiC–NiAl composites was set up on the basis of Pauling's nature of the chemical bond, and valence electron density ρ of different atomic states TiC and NiAl composites in various planes was determined. From the viewpoint of biphase interface electron density continuing, the corresponding experimental phenomena are explained.
Large Basilar Aneurysm with Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Stroke and Consequential Fatal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Patel Rohit , Allen Brandon , Desai Bobby
Published: September 2012

Basilar artery aneurysm presenting a stroke is rare, and we present a case of this along with a discussion of the management options available.
Design and Simulation of a New Model for Treatment by NCT
Authors: Mousavi Shirazi Seyed Alireza , Sardari Dariush
Published: September 2012

In this investigation, neutron capture therapy (NCT) through high energy neutrons using Monte Carlo method has been studied. In this study a new method of NCT for a sample liver phantom has been defined, and interaction of 12 MeV neutrons with a multilayer spherical phantom is considered. In order to reach the desirable energy range of neutrons in accord with required energy in absence of eligible clinical neutron source for NCT, this model of phantom might be utilized. The neutron flux and the deposited dose in the all components and different layers of the mentioned phantom are computed by Monte Carlo simulation. The results of Monte Carlo method are compared with analytical method results so that by using a computer program in Turbo-Pascal programming, the deposited dose in the liver phantom has been computed.
Successful Management of Jejunal Perforation in Burkitt’s Lymphoma: A Case Report
Authors: Finch David A. , Wilson Malcolm S. , O'Dwyer Sarah T.
Published: September 2012

Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL) is rare, rapidly growing, and highly aggressive. Urgent commencement of chemotherapy is vital to prevent complications and promote a favourable prognosis. Any factor causing a delay in the initiation of chemotherapy will affect prognosis significantly. Intestinal perforation is a well-known complication with devastating consequences. It inevitably leads to a delay in the initiation of chemotherapy. There are few reports in the literature that discuss this complication. Furthermore, there are no reports of patients that have survived intestinal perforation occurring prior to the commencement of chemotherapy. We present a case of a 55-year-old male who survived perforation of advanced sporadic BL of the jejunum occurring prior to the commencement of chemotherapy. Critical aspects of the patients care are discussed.
AMIC Cartilage Repair in a Professional Soccer Player
Authors: Bark S. , Riepenhof H. , Gille J.
Published: September 2012

We report a case of a professional soccer player suffering from a traumatic cartilage lesion grade IV according to the Outerbridge classification at the femoral condyle treated with an enhanced microfracture technique (AMIC). Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis (AMIC) is an innovative treatment for localized full-thickness cartilage defects combining the well-known microfracturing with collagen scaffold and fibrin glue. Because of the cartilage lesion (3 cm2), an AMIC procedure was performed followed by a rehabilitation program according to the protocols in the literature, (Steadman et al.; 2003). After 8 months of rehabilitation, the player returned to team training and after 10 months to competition. Altogether he returned to the same skill level for almost one year after the index operation. He is very satisfied with the clinical results after AMIC, which corresponds with the Lysholm score of 90 points at 12 months.
Polymorphisms in XPD and hOGG1 and Prostate Cancer Risk: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhu Shimiao , Zhang Hui , Tang Yang , Wang Jianmin
Published: September 2012

Objective: To examine the association between XPD and hOGG1 polymorphisms and prostate cancer (PCa) susceptibility. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted to identify all case-control studies on the relationship between XPD and hOGG1 polymorphisms and PCa risk. Odds ratios (ORs) were used to investigate the strength of the associations. Results: A total of 15 case-control studies including 5,765 cases and 6,270 controls were eligible for the meta-analyses. For XPD Asp312Asn, no evidence indicated that individuals carrying 312Asn had an increased risk of PCa. In subgroup analyses, Asp312Asn polymorphism was associated with PCa risk in Asian populations [OR = 2.09 and 95% CI = 1.39–3.14 for Asn/Asn vs. Asp/Asp; OR = 1.49 and 95% CI = 1.12–1.98 for (Asn/Asn+Asn/Asp) vs. Asp/Asp]. For XPD Lys751Gln, the individuals with 751Gln did not have increased PCa risk compared with those with 751Arg, and no association was found in the subgroup analyses. For hOGG1 Ser326Cys, no significant association between the polymorphism and PCa risk was observed in the overall analysis. However, Ser326Cys was significantly associated with PCa risk under homologous contrast in Caucasians and Asians. Conclusions: XPD Asp312Asn polymorphism is associated with PCa risk in Asians and hOGG1 Ser326Cys polymorphism is associated with PCa risk in Caucasians and Asians.
Interleukin-8 Content in the Stratum Corneum as an Indicator of the Severity of Inflammation in the Lesions of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Amarbayasgalan Tseveendorj , Takahashi Hitoshi , Dekio Itaru , Morita Eishin
Published: September 2012

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an inflammatory skin disease characterized by both acute and chronic eczema. Various markers are used to clinically evaluate the severity of AD. In order to identify a marker of local severity of AD, we measured IL-8, IL-18, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α) levels in the stratum corneum (scIL-8, scIL-18, scVEGF and scTGF-α) and evaluated the correlation between the levels of these cytokines and the clinical severity scores of localized skin lesions. Methods: Stratum corneum samples were collected from the skin lesions of 50 patients with AD using the tape-stripping technique, and the scIL-8, scIL-18, scVEGF and scTGF-α levels were evaluated using the ELISA method. The trans-epidermal water loss and skin water content of the lesions were also measured prior to tape stripping. Results: The levels of scIL-8, scIL-18, scVEGF and scTGF-α were significantly higher in patients with AD than in healthy controls. Additionally, the levels of scIL-8, scIL-18 and scVEGF significantly correlated with the severity of AD. Conclusions: Among these cytokines, scIL-8 showed the highest correlation with the severity scores of lesions in AD as well as other parameters. Our results also suggest that measuring cytokines in the stratum corneum by using ELISA combined with tape stripping is a convenient method to evaluate the severity of skin lesions in AD.
Allometric Scaling of the Optic Tectum in Cartilaginous Fishes
Authors: Yopak Kara E. , Lisney Thomas J.
Published: September 2012

In cartilaginous fishes (Chondrichthyes; sharks, skates and rays (batoids), and holocephalans), the midbrain or mesencephalon can be divided into two parts, the dorsal tectum mesencephali or optic tectum (analogous to the superior colliculus of mammals) and the ventral tegmentum mesencephali. Very little is known about interspecific variation in the relative size and organization of the components of the mesencephalon in these fishes. This study examined the relative development of the optic tectum and the tegmentum in 75 chondrichthyan species representing 32 families. This study also provided a critical assessment of attempts to quantify the size of the optic tectum in these fishes volumetrically using an idealized half-ellipsoid approach (method E), by comparing this method to measurements of the tectum from coronal cross sections (method S). Using species as independent data points and phylogenetically independent contrasts, relationships between the two midbrain structures and both brain and mesencephalon volume were assessed and the relative volume of each brain area (expressed as phylogenetically corrected residuals) was compared among species with different ecological niches (as defined by primary habitat and lifestyle). The relatively largest tecta and tegmenta were found in pelagic coastal/oceanic and oceanic sharks, benthopelagic reef sharks, and benthopelagic coastal sharks. The smallest tecta were found in all benthic sharks and batoids and the majority of bathyal (deep-sea) species. These results were consistent regardless of which method of estimating tectum volume was used. We found a highly significant correlation between optic tectum volume estimates calculated using method E and method S. Taxon-specific variation in the difference between tectum volumes calculated using the two methods appears to reflect variation in both the shape of the optic tectum relative to an idealized half-ellipsoid and the volume of the ventricular cavity. Because the optic tectum is the principal termination site for retinofugal fibers arising from the retinal ganglion cells, the relative size of this brain region has been associated with an increased reliance on vision in other vertebrate groups, including bony fishes. The neuroecological relationships between the relative size of the optic tectum and primary habitat and lifestyle we present here for cartilaginous fishes mirror those established for bony fishes; we speculate that the relative size of the optic tectum and tegmentum similarly reflects the importance of vision and sensory processing in cartilaginous fishes.
Severe Heart Failure after Bortezomib Treatment in a Patient with Multiple Myeloma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bockorny Margarita , Chakravarty Saneka , Schulman Peter , Bockorny Bruno , Bona Robert
Published: September 2012

Background: Bortezomib is a novel, first-in-class peptide which reversibly inhibits the proteasome and is Food and Drug Administration approved for the treatment of multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, and systemic light chain amyloidosis, among others. Case Report: Very few cases of bortezomib-induced cardiotoxicity have been reported in the literature, and most of them have been confounded by the previous use of anthracyclins. We reviewed the case of a 56-year-old woman with a medical history of well-controlled hypertension who was newly diagnosed with International Staging System stage I multiple myeloma. She presented with new symptoms of exertional dyspnea, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, and orthopnea after a 4th cycle of a bortezomib/dexamethasone-based chemotherapy. Clinical examination was consistent with heart failure. 2-D echocardiogram showed an left ventricular ejection fraction of 25%, abnormal wall motion, severe eccentric mitral regurgitation, and moderate pericardial effusion. Coronary angiogram showed normal coronaries, and cardiac magnetic resonance did not show delayed gadolinium enhancement. Conclusion: We reviewed the possible mechanisms involved in cardiotoxicity caused by bortezomib, and the diagnostic methods and importance of early identification of this adverse event. Differential diagnoses such as cardiac amyloidosis and viral myocarditis are also discussed. To our knowledge, this is the first case where pericardial effusion and mitral regurgitation were described after bortezomib treatment.
Correlation between Protective Immunity to α-Synuclein Aggregates, Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Gruden Marina A. , Yanamandra Kiran , Kucheryanu Valery G. , Bocharova Olga R. , Sherstnev Vladimir V. , Morozova-Roche Ludmilla A. , Sewell Robert D.E.
Published: September 2012

Objective: Protein aggregation leading to central amyloid deposition is implicated in Parkinson’s disease (PD). During disease progression, inflammation and oxidative stress may well invoke humoral immunity against pathological aggregates of PD-associated α-synuclein. The aim was to investigate any possible concurrence between autoimmune responses to α-synuclein monomers, oligomers or fibrils with oxidative stress and inflammation. Methods: The formation of α-synuclein amyloid species was assessed by thioflavin-T assay and atomic force microscopy was employed to confirm their morphology. Serum autoantibody titers to α-synuclein conformations were determined by ELISA. Enzyme activity and concentrations of oxidative stress/inflammatory indicators were evaluated by enzyme and ELISA protocols. Results: In PD patient sera, a differential increase in autoantibody titers to α-synuclein monomers, toxic oligomers or fibrils was associated with boosted levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor-α, but a decrease in interferon-γ concentration. In addition, levels of malondialdehyde were elevated whilst those of glutathione were reduced along with decrements in the activity of the antioxidants: superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione transferase. Conclusions: It is hypothesized that the generation of α-synuclein amyloid aggregates allied with oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions may invoke humoral immunity protecting against dopaminergic neuronal death. Hence, humoral immunity is a common integrative factor throughout PD progression which is directed towards prevention of further neurodegeneration, so potential treatment strategies should attempt to maintain PD patient immune status.
Effects of Coagulation on the Autofluorescence Pattern of ARPE-19 Cells: An in vitro Study
Authors: Koutsonas Antonis , Carstesen Doerthe , Henkel Corinna , Walter Peter , Thumann Gabriele , Weinberger Andreas W.A.
Published: September 2012

Objective: Changes in fundus autofluorescence (AF) are observed in various retinal disorders. Lipofuscin accumulation within the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a source of fundus AF (FAF); however, the causes of short-term increases in FAF observed in inflammatory conditions or after laser treatment are unknown. Here, we describe an RPE cell culture model that is useful for investigations of FAF. Methods: ARPE-19 cells were cultured in 2-well chamber slides. Cells were exposed to isolated rabbit photoreceptor outer segments (POS) to mimic in vivo phagocytic activity. The AF of RPE cells exposed to POS was measured before and after focal coagulation of the cultures. AF was measured over a period of 4 weeks. Cell lysates were examined by two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry analysis. Results: The exposure of ARPE cells to POS did not lead to increased AF; however, after coagulation, cells exposed to POS showed a statistically significant increase in AF (p < 0.05). 2D electrophoresis of the cell lysates revealed changes in 3 proteins. One of these proteins, identified by mass spectrometry as ezrin-radixin-moesin-binding phosphoprotein 50, was reduced in the coagulated cell population. Conclusions: We have established an in vitro model of RPE cells in culture that can be used to evaluate the development of AF and changes in cellular proteins that accompany laser photocoagulation.
Investigation of TBR1 Hemizygosity: Four Individuals with 2q24 Microdeletions
Authors: Traylor R.N. , Dobyns W.B. , Rosenfeld J.A. , Wheeler P. , Spence J.E. , Bandholz A.M. , Bawle E.V. , Carmany E.P. , Powell C.M. , Hudson B. , Schultz R.A. , Shaffer L.G. , Ballif B.C.
Published: September 2012

TBR1 encodes a transcription factor with critical roles in corticogenesis, including cortical neuron migration and axon pathfinding, establishment of regional and laminar identity of cortical neurons, and control of glutamatergic neuronal cell fate. Based upon TBR1’s role in cortical development, we sought to investigate TBR1 hemizygosity in individuals referred for genetic evaluation of intellectual disability and developmental delay. We describe 4 patients with microdeletions identified by molecular cytogenetic techniques, encompassing TBR1 and spanning 2q24.1q31.1, ranging in size from 2.17 to 12.34 Mb. Only the patient with the largest deletion had a possible cortical malformation. Mild ventriculomegaly is the only common brain anomaly, present in all patients; a Chiari I malformation is seen in 2 patients, and mega cisterna magna is seen in a third. Our findings are consistent with Tbr1 mouse models showing that hemizygosity of the gene requires additional genetic factors for the manifestation of severe structural brain malformations. Other syndromic features are present in these patients, including autism spectrum disorders, ocular colobomas, and craniosynostosis, features that are likely affected by the deletion of genes other than TBR1.
Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptors: Biology and Therapeutic Potential in Kidney Diseases
Authors: Speeckaert Marijn M. , Speeckaert Reinhart , Laute Margo , Vanholder Raymond , Delanghe Joris R.
Published: September 2012

The major evolutionary advance represented in the human immune system is a mechanism of antigen-directed immunity in which tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and TNF receptors (TNFRs) play essential roles. Binding of TNF-α to the 55-kDa type I TNFR (TNFR1, TNFRSF1A, CD120a, p55) or the 75-kDa type II TNFR (TNFR2, TNFRSF1B, CD120b, p75) activates signaling pathways controlling inflammatory, immune and stress responses, as well as host defense and apoptosis. Multiple studies have investigated the role of TNFRs in the development of early and late renal failure (diabetic nephropathy, nephroangiosclerosis, acute kidney transplant rejection, renal cell carcinoma, glomerulonephritis, sepsis and obstructive renal injury). This article reviews the general characteristics, the analytical aspects and the biology of TNFRs in this domain. In addition, the potential therapeutic application of specific TNFR blockers is discussed.
Accessibility of Shared Space for visually impaired persons: An inventory in the Netherlands
Authors: Havik Else M , Melis-Dankers Bart JM , Steyvers Frank JJM , Kooijman Aart C
Published: September 2012

Shared Space is a concept that comprises the design and planning process of a public space. There are concerns about the accessibility of Shared Spaces for people who are visually impaired. This study provides a systematic overview of the appearance of Shared Spaces in the Netherlands and the consequences that these spaces may have for the independent mobility of visually impaired persons. Environmental characteristics of ten typical Shared-Space locations in the Netherlands were registered. The level of hindrance that these characteristics could cause visually impaired users of these spaces was judged by a group of experts in the field of orientation and mobility. In addition, compliance of the selected locations with existing guidelines for accessibility was assessed. None of the selected Shared-Space locations were free of potential problems for visually impaired persons.
Snellen versus logMAR visual acuity charts for evaluating driving standards in patients with neovascular macular degeneration
Authors: Rathore Deepa , Oyede Toyin , Narendran Niro , Yang Yit C
Published: September 2012

Purpose:

To evaluate the use of Snellen and modified Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) charts in estimating compliance with the UK Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency visual acuity standard in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

Methods:

Patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration in at least one eye underwent acuity test using 2m ETDRS chart, 6m Snellen chart and number plate test at 20m. The overlap zones between pass and fail in terms of ETDRS and Snellen charts were analyzed. The levels of descending acuity on the ETDRS chart that corresponded to varying percentages of patients passing or failing the number plate test were analyzed.

Results:

In total, 26 patients failed the number plate test and 24 patients passed. Fail acuities ranged from 6/36 to 6/6 on Snellen and from 49L to 79L on ETDRS chart. Pass acuities ranged from 6/12 to 6/5 on Snellen and from 67L to 85L on ETDRS chart. The overlap zone of acuities that contained patients who passed and failed was narrower with the ETDRS chart (69L–79L) compared to Snellen ( 6/6-6/12, which is equivalent to 85L-70L on ETDRS chart format).

Conclusion:

There are overlap zones of acuities in which patient’s presumptive eligibility to drive cannot be reliably estimated. An ETDRS cut-off of 77L provides a reasonable estimate of ability to pass the number plate test. These findings should provide a useful evidence base for advising patients of their compliance with the number plate test based on their logMAR acuity.
Citation analysis tools as workflow support for lawyers
Authors: Blankson-Hemans Liz
Published: September 2012

The number of integrated services or tools designed to characterize value and enhance the output of legal practitioners’ workflow is growing, not least because information service providers need to differentiate between themselves and their nearest competitors. In addition, legal services are under pressure to provide a more efficient and speedy service to clients. Legal citation tools and checkers are one of the aids rapidly increasing in sophisticated functionality. This article briefly reviews some of the major citation tools available, and focuses on one in particular, LexisCheck, as an example of a tool that brings together most of the desired functionality of a true citation checker.
Low carbon high manganese bainitic steel
Authors: Bhowmik N , Ghosh S K , Haldar A , Chattopadhyay P P
Published: September 2012

The present study concerns the mechanical properties of low carbon (0·05 wt-) high Mn bainitic steel. The continuous cooling transformation diagram exhibited bainitic transformation without any prior diffusive transformation of austenite even for a cooling rate as low as 0·5°C/s. The bainitic steels have shown continuous elongation behaviour with attractive combination of strength (>1200 MPa) and elongation (>14). The bainitic microstructure obtained after annealing treatment has yielded excellent combination of strength, uniform elongation, yield ratio and static toughness value.