bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Antibodies Associated with Herd Immunity: A New Indicator to Evaluate the Establishment of Herd Immunity and to Decide Immunization Strategies
Authors: Plans Pedro
Published: April 2010

Objective. To develop a method to estimate the critical prevalence of antibodies associated with herd immunity (pc) and to assess the establishment of herd immunity against measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, and pertussis in Catalonia (Spain) using this method. Methods. The herd immunity is established when the prevalence of antibodies (positive serological results) is higher than pc = Ic Se/PV, where Ic is the prevalence of protected individuals necessary to block the transmission of an infection in the population, Se is the sensitivity of the serological test, and PV is the predictive value of a positive serological result. The establishment of herd immunity was assessed comparing the age-group specific pc with the prevalence of antibodies (p) observed in Catalonia in 2002 in schoolchildren (6—9 years) and individuals aged 14 to 29 years and 45 to 54 years. Results. The herd immunity was not established (p < pc) against measles, mumps, and varicella in schoolchildren aged 6 to 9 years, against measles in individuals aged 15 to 24 years, and against pertussis in all age groups. Based on these results, the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine should be given to schoolchildren and individuals aged 15 to 24 years, the varicella vaccine to schoolchildren aged 6 to 9 years, and the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP/dTaP) vaccine to all age groups in order to establish the necessary herd immunity in the population. Conclusion. Serological surveys and the critical prevalence of antibodies can be used to assess the establishment of herd immunity for vaccine-preventable diseases in different population groups, indicating to which of them immunization activities should be prioritized.
Bias Associated with Failing to Incorporate Dependence on Event History in Markov Models
Authors: Bentley Tanya G. K. , Kuntz Karen M. , Ringel Jeanne S.
Published: April 2010

Purpose. When using state-transition Markov models to simulate risk of recurrent events over time, incorporating dependence on higher numbers of prior episodes can increase model complexity, yet failing to capture this event history may bias model outcomes. This analysis assessed the tradeoffs between model bias and complexity when evaluating risks of recurrent events in Markov models. Methods. The authors developed a generic episode/relapse Markov cohort model, defining bias as the percentage change in events prevented with 2 hypothetical interventions (prevention and treatment) when incorporating 0 to 9 prior episodes in relapse risk versus a model with 10 such episodes. Magnitude and sign of bias were evaluated as a function of event and recovery risks, disease-specific mortality, and risk function. Results. Bias was positive in the base case for a prevention strategy, indicating that failing to fully incorporate dependence on event history overestimated the prevention’s predicted impact. For treatment, the bias was negative, indicating an underestimated benefit. Bias approached zero as the number of tracked prior episodes increased, and the average bias over 10 tracked episodes was greater with the exponential compared with linear functions of relapse risk and with treatment compared with prevention strategies. With linear and exponential risk functions, absolute bias reached 33% and 78%, respectively, in prevention and 52% and 85% in treatment. Conclusion. Failing to incorporate dependence on prior event history in subsequent relapse risk in Markov models can greatly affect model outcomes, overestimating the impact of prevention and treatment strategies by up to 85% and underestimating the impact in some treatment models by up to 20%. When at least 4 prior episodes are incorporated, bias does not exceed 26% in prevention or 11% in treatment.
Stem Cells Genetically Modified With the Developmental Gene MT1-MMP Improve Regeneration of the Supraspinatus Tendon-to-Bone Insertion Site
Authors: Gulotta Lawrence V. , Kovacevic David , Montgomery Scott , Ehteshami John R. , Packer Jonathon D. , Rodeo Scott A.
Published: April 2010

Background: Rotator cuffs heal through a scar tissue interface after repair, which makes them prone to failure. Membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) is upregulated during embryogenesis in areas that develop into tendon-bone insertion sites.

Hypothesis: Bone marrow-derived stem cells in the presence of the developmental signal from MT1-MMP will drive the healing process toward regeneration and away from scar formation.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Sixty Lewis rats underwent unilateral detachment and repair of the supraspinatus tendon. Thirty animals received mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in a fibrin glue carrier, and 30 received adenoviral MT1-MMP (Ad-MT1-MMP)–transduced MSCs. Animals were sacrificed at 2 weeks and 4 weeks and evaluated for the presence of fibrocartilage and collagen fiber organization at the insertion. Biomechanical testing was performed to determine the structural and material properties of the repaired tissue. Statistical analysis was performed with a Wilcoxon rank-sum test with significance set at P = .05.

Results: There were no differences between the Ad-MT1-MMP and MSC groups in any outcome variable at 2 weeks. At 4 weeks, the Ad-MT1-MMP group had more fibrocartilage ( P = .05), higher ultimate load to failure ( P = .01), higher ultimate stress to failure ( P = .005), and higher stiffness values ( P = .02) as compared with the MSC group.

Conclusion: Mesenchymal stem cells genetically modified to overexpress the developmental gene MT1-MMP can augment rotator cuff healing at 4 weeks by the presence of more fibrocartilage at the insertion and improved biomechanical strength.

Clinical Relevance: Biologic augmentation of repaired rotator cuffs with MT1-MMP–transduced MSCs may reduce the incidence of retears. However, further studies are needed to determine if this remains safe and effective in larger models.
Effect of 2 Soccer Matches in a Week on Physical Performance and Injury Rate
Authors: Dupont Gregory , Nedelec Mathieu , McCall Alan , McCormack Derek , Berthoin Serge , Wisløff Ulrik
Published: April 2010

Background: Recovery duration may be too short during the congested fixtures of professional soccer players with regard to maintaining physical performance and a low injury rate.

Purpose: To analyze the effects of 2 matches per week on physical performance and injury rate in male elite soccer players.

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: Match results, match-related physical performance, and injuries were monitored during 2 seasons (2007–2008 and 2008–2009) for 32 professional soccer players in a top-level team participating in the UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) Champions League. Total distance, high-intensity distance, sprint distance, and number of sprints were collected for 52 home matches. Injuries and player participation in matches and training were recorded throughout the full season.

Results: Physical performance, as characterized by total distance covered, high-intensity distance, sprint distance, and number of sprints, was not significantly affected by the number of matches per week (1 versus 2), whereas the injury rate was significantly higher when players played 2 matches per week versus 1 match per week (25.6 versus 4.1 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure; P < .001).

Conclusion: The recovery time between 2 matches, 72 to 96 hours, appears sufficient to maintain the level of physical performance tested but is not long enough to maintain a low injury rate. The present data highlight the need for player rotation and for improved recovery strategies to maintain a low injury rate among athletes during periods with congested match fixtures.
Correlation of Torque and Elbow Injury in Professional Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Anz Adam W. , Bushnell Brandon D. , Griffin Leah Passmore , Noonan Thomas J. , Torry Michael R. , Hawkins Richard J.
Published: April 2010

Background: During the pitching motion, velocity is generated by the upper extremity kinetic chain on internal rotation of the shoulder and trunk translational/rotational motion. This generation of power places significant forces and torques on the elbow and shoulder. Elbow valgus torque and shoulder rotational torque are theoretically linked to elbow injury.

Hypothesis: Pitchers experiencing higher levels of elbow valgus torque and shoulder external rotation torque throughout the pitching motion are more likely to suffer elbow injury than pitchers with lower levels of torque.

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: With an established biomechanical analysis model, 23 professional baseball pitchers were videotaped during spring training games and followed prospectively for the next 3 seasons for elbow injury. A mixed statistical model using differences of least squares means and analysis of variance was used to analyze the association between elbow injury and torque levels throughout the pitching motion as well as at each major event within the pitching motion.

Results: There were overall statistical trends relating elbow injury with both higher elbow valgus torque ( P = .0547) and higher shoulder external rotation torque ( P = .0548) throughout the entire pitching motion. More importantly, there was an individual significant correlation of elbow injury with both higher elbow valgus torque ( P = .0130) and higher shoulder external rotation torque ( P = .0018) at the late cocking phase (pitching event of maximum external rotation of the shoulder).

Conclusion: This study provides information that supports existing theories about how and why certain injuries occur during the throwing motion in baseball. The late cocking phase appears to be the critical point in the pitching motion, where higher levels of torque at the shoulder and elbow can result in increased risk of injury. Manipulation of pitching mechanics to alter these torque levels or using these measures to identify pitchers at risk may help decrease injury rates.
Endoscopic Compartment Release for Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Wittstein Jocelyn , Moorman Claude T. , Levin L. Scott
Published: April 2010

Background: Chronic exertional compartment syndrome is an entity that typically fails nonoperative management and requires operative treatment with fasciotomies for return to activity. Fasciotomies performed through single or multiple incisions may fail to totally release the fascia of the afflicted compartment(s) and may result in injury to neurovascular structures that cannot be visualized.

Purpose: The authors report results of endoscopic compartment release with the assistance of a balloon dissector in the treatment of chronic exertional compartment syndrome.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: The clinical outcomes of 14 cases of chronic exertional compartment syndrome in 9 patients treated with endoscopic release were assessed with a retrospective chart review and the results of mailed questionnaires.

Results: Fourteen legs in 9 patients (4 male and 5 female; average age, 24 years) were treated with endoscopic compartment release for chronic exertional compartment syndrome. Eight of 9 patients were able to resume preoperative activities, including collegiate athletics in 5 cases and recreational sport in 3 cases. No neurovascular injuries occurred. Complications were isolated to postoperative hematomas that resolved in 2 patients. Seven patients completed questionnaires an average of 3.75 years after surgery. There were no recurrences of symptoms.

Conclusion: Endoscopic compartment release is a cosmetic, safe, and effective means of treating chronic exertional compartment syndrome.
Can Osteochondral Grafting Be Augmented With Microfracture in an Extended-Size Lesion of Articular Cartilage?
Authors: Lane John G. , Healey Robert M. , Chen Albert C. , Sah Robert L. , Amiel David
Published: April 2010

Background: Both microfracture and osteochondral autografting procedures have been useful in treating osteochondral lesions.

Hypothesis: Combining microfracture and osteochondral autografting procedures can extend the size of lesions that can be treated with either technique.

Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods: Eight adult goats underwent osteochondral autograft transfer of a 4.5-mm femoral trochlea plug into an 8-mm full-thickness chondral defect. Microfracture was performed in the gap region surrounding the autograft. The animals were allowed normal activity until the end of the experiment at 6 months. At harvest, the knees were assessed grossly, and then evaluation was performed by histology, histomorphometry, biochemistry, and biomechanics.

Results: The osteochondral plugs healed well, with integration of the bone and preservation of the chondral cap. The chondral gap between the host site articular cartilage and the transferred plug had decreased from 3 mm at implant to less than 0.1 mm. Histologic analysis demonstrated regions of variable cartilage repair, with integration of the cartilage layer at some sites but incomplete healing at others. Histomorphometry demonstrated filling of the chondral gap to 75% to 85% of the normal volume. Biochemical analysis revealed greater than 90% type II collagen at most sites, with some areas containing 80% type II collagen. Biomechanical indentation testing indicated that the repaired area had variable thickness and stiffness, with a trend of increased stiffness in the bulk graft and decreased softness at the proximal microfracture interface site.

Conclusion: The performance of a combined microfracture and osteochondral autograft transfer procedure to resurface a large chondral defect appears promising.

Clinical Relevance: This combined technique shows promise for treatment of large chondral defects with a single operative procedure with autogenous tissue that is safe and potentially would have a shorter period of rehabilitation, similar to that of osteochondral transfers and microfracture, in a cost-effective setting.
Elimination of persistent toxicants from the human body
Authors: Genuis Stephen J
Published: April 2010

There is compelling evidence that various chemical agents are important determinants of myriad health afflictions — several xenobiotics have the potential to disrupt reproductive, developmental, and neurological processes and some agents in common use have carcinogenic, epigenetic, endocrine-disrupting, and immune-altering action. Some toxicants appear to have biological effect at miniscule levels and certain chemical compounds are persistent and bioaccumulative within the human body. Despite escalating public health measures to preclude further exposures, many people throughout the world have already accrued a significant body burden of toxicants, placing them at potential health risk. As a result, increasing discussion is underway about possible interventions to facilitate elimination of persistent toxicants from the human organism in order to obviate health affliction and to potentially ameliorate chronic degenerative illness. An overview of the clinical aspects of detoxification is presented with discussion of established and emerging interventions for the elimination of persistent xenobiotics. Potential therapies to circumvent enterohepatic recirculation and a case report highlighting a clinical outcome associated with detoxification are also presented for consideration.
Statewide CBT Training for Clinicians and Supervisors Treating Youth: The New York State Evidence Based Treatment Dissemination Center
Authors: Gleacher Alissa A. , Nadeem Erum , Moy Amanda J. , Whited Andria L. , Albano Anne Marie , Radigan Marleen , Rui Wang  , Chassman Janet , Myrhol-Clarke Britt , Eaton Hoagwood Kimberly
Published: April 2010

In recent years, several states have undertaken efforts to disseminate evidence-based treatments to agencies and clinicians in their children’s service system. In New York, the Evidence Based Treatment Dissemination Center adopted a unique translation-based training and consultation model in which an initial 3-day training was combined with a year of clinical consultation with specific clinician and supervisor elements. This model has been used by the New York State Office of Mental Health for the past 3 years to train 1,210 clinicians and supervisors statewide. This article describes the early adoption and initial implementation of a statewide training program in cognitive-behavioral therapy for youth. The training and consultation model and descriptive findings are presented; lessons learned are described. Future plans include a focus on sustainability and measurement feedback of youth outcomes to enhance the continuity of this program and the quality of the clinical services.
Application of Transfer Functions to Canned Tuna Fish Thermal Processing
Authors: Ansorena M.R. , del Valle C. , Salvadori V.O.
Published: April 2010

Design and optimization of thermal processing of foods need accurate dynamic models to ensure safe and high quality food products. Transfer functions had been demonstrated to be a useful tool to predict thermal histories, especially under variable operating conditions. This work presents the development and experimental validation of a dynamic model (discrete transfer function) for the thermal processing of tuna fish in steam retorts. Transfer function coefficients were obtained numerically, using commercial software of finite elements (COMSOL Multiphysics) to solve the heat transfer balance. Dependence of transfer function coefficients on the characteristic dimensions of cylindrical containers (diameter and height) and on the sampling interval is reported. A simple equation, with two empirical parameters that depends on the container dimensions, represented the behavior of transfer function coefficients with very high accuracy. Experimental runs with different size containers and different external conditions (constant and variable retort temperature) were carried out to validate the developed methodology. Performance of the thermal process simulation was tested for predicting internal product temperature of the cold point and lethality and very satisfactory results were found. The developed methodology can play an important role in reducing the computational effort while guaranteeing accuracy by simplifying the calculus involved in the solution of heat balances with variable external conditions and emerges as a potential approach to the implementation of new food control strategies leading not only to more efficient processes but also to product quality and safety.
Development of a Structured Sensory Honey Analysis: Application to Artisanal Madrid Honeys
Authors: González M.M. , de Lorenzo C. , Pérez R.A.
Published: April 2010

In this work a methodology to evaluate the sensory properties of honeys has been developed. The sensory analysis was carried out by means of a quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) method, based on several reference scales, for the coverage of the designed range for each descriptor. The peculiarity of this sensory analysis is that the reference scales have been constituted by common foodstuffs agreed upon by consensus of the panel. The main sensory attributes evaluated in the analyses were: adhesiveness, viscosity, bitterness, aroma, sweetness, acidity, color and granularity. Both the intensity and persistence of honey aromas have also been estimated, together with the classification of the identified aromatic attributes into different groups. The method was applied to 55 artisanal honeys from Madrid (Spain) with the following results: (i) the developed sensory profile sheet allowed a satisfactory description of Madrid honeys; (ii) correlations between sensory attributes of three broad groups of Madrid honeys were obtained and (iii) aroma persistence, sweetness, bitterness, color and granularity appeared as the main sensorial characteristics of honey with discrimination power between floral and honeydew honeys.
Quality Changes During Storage of Minced Fish Products Containing Dietary Fiber and Fortified with ω3 Fatty Acids
Authors: Cardoso C. , Mendes R. , Pedro S. , Vaz-Pires P. , Nunes M.L.
Published: April 2010

Two ready-to-eat minced fish products from hake were developed, their proximate composition and fatty acid profiles determined and their quality changes followed during 3.5 months under refrigeration at 2 ± 1 °C and 10 ± 1 °C. These products contain dietary fiber and are innovative and healthy. The formulation was identical, except vegetable oil (VO), 5.6% (w/w) in one group and 2.7% (w/w) plus 2.9% (w/w) cod liver oil (CLO) in the other. CLO products had a higher ω3/ω6 ratio (0.54 ± 0.02 versus 0.08 ± 0.02) and ensured, per 100 g serving, the 500 mg recommended daily intake of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids. CLO products showed lower gel strength (p ≤ 0.05), however, other textural properties were similar to those of the VO group. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values were higher in CLO products. All groups presented acceptable sensory scores and no microbiological growth. During storage products became redder and less yellow, while seafood aroma and flavor declined and saltiness perception augmented. Temperature had a negative effect on sensory elasticity and instrumental texture.
Pre-harvest Application of Putrescine Influences Japanese Plum Fruit Ripening and Quality
Authors: Khan A.S. , Singh Zora
Published: April 2010

To investigate the role of pre-harvest application of putrescine (PUT) in regulating fruit ripening and quality of early-, mid- and late-season maturing Japanese plum fruit, whole trees were sprayed with an aqueous solution containing PUT (0, 0.1, 1.0 and 2.0 mM) one week before anticipated commercial harvest for each cultivar separately. The PUT (2.0 mM) treatment reduced the respiration rate and ethylene production more than untreated fruit during fruit ripening at ambient temperature (20±1 °C). Activities of ACS and ACO enzymes, and ACC content were delayed and suppressed in all plum cultivars and these effects were more pronounced with higher PUT concentrations. PUT application reduced the fruit softening, soluble solids content, titratable acidity ratio, the levels of ascorbic acid, total carotenoids and total antioxidants in all plum cultivars. ‘Black Amber’ did not exhibit any change in fruit color parameters, while, PUT application to ‘Amber Jewel’ and ‘Angelino’ fruit, delayed the changes in chroma value and hue angle during fruit ripening. In conclusion, pre-harvest application of 2.0 mM PUT delayed the fruit ripening with reduced respiration rate, ethylene production, activities of ACS and ACO enzymes, ACC content, fruit softening, levels of ascorbic acid, total carotenoids and total antioxidants in Japanese plum.
Rheological Characterization and Sensory Evaluation of a Typical Soft Ice Cream Made with Selected Food Hydrocolloids
Authors: BahramParvar M. , Razavi S.M.A. , Khodaparast M.H.H.
Published: April 2010

The effect of two novel hydrocolloids known as Balangu seed gum (BSG) and palmate-tuber salep (PTS) with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) on the rheological characteristics of a typical soft ice cream was studied. The power law model well described the flow behavior of mixes with a high correlation coefficient (r). The flow behavior index was in the range of 0.450-1.154, while the consistency coefficient varied from 0.051 to 6.822 Pa sn. All mixes showed a pseudoplastic behavior except the mix containing 0.3% PTS, which was found to have a slightly dilatant characteristic. An increase in the concentration was accompanied by an increase in the pseudoplasticity and consistency coefficient. The effect of selected gums on some sensory properties of a soft ice cream such as viscosity, coldness, firmness, degree of smoothness (coarseness), liquefying rate, body and texture and total acceptance has also been investigated in this work. The correlation between the apparent viscosity and sensory attributes has been determined because of the importance of viscosity in the quality evaluation of an ice cream. Taking into account the commercial ice cream properties, a 0.4% BSG gum concentration may be recommended.
Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy Determination of Trace Element Composition of Argan Oil
Authors: Gonzálvez A. , Ghanjaoui M.E. , El Rhazi M. , de la Guardia M.
Published: April 2010

A methodology based on inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) after microwave assisted acid digestion has been developed to determine the trace element content of Moroccan argan oil. Limit of detection values equal or lower than few mg/kg were obtained for all elements under study. To assure the accuracy of the whole procedure, recovery studies were carried out on argan oil samples spiked at different concentration levels from 10 to 200 µg/L. Quantitative average recovery values were obtained for all elements evaluated, demonstrating the suitability of this methodology for the determination of trace elements in argan oil samples. Aluminum, calcium, chromium, iron, potassium, lithium, magnesium, sodium, vanadium and zinc were quantitatively determined in Moroccan argan oils being found that their concentration is different of that found in other edible oils thus offering a way for authentication and for the evaluation of possible adulterations.
The Effect of Germination on Antioxidant and Nutritional Parameters of Protein Isolates from Grass Pea (Lathyrus sativus) Seeds
Authors: Starzyńska-Janiszewska A. , Stodolak B. , Mickowska B.
Published: April 2010

The aim of this research was to study the antioxidant and nutritional (selected objects) properties of protein isolates obtained from grass pea seedlings as compared with soaked and raw seeds. Two percent extract of isolate from 5-day-old seedlings showed the highest total antioxidant activity (25%) and the ability to chelate Fe 2+ (2.35 mg/g d.m.) as compared with other isolates. Protein isolates from grass pea seeds had on average 89% total protein, 87% in vitro protein bioavailability, about 5574 TIU/g (d.m.) (trypsin inhibitors activity) and did not contain ODAP. Germination of seeds for 5 days considerably improved the in vitro bioavailability of isolates, by 12%, and profile of sulfur amino acids by 42%, in comparison with isolates obtained from the raw seeds. Isolates from 5-day-old grass pea seedlings had the best antioxidant properties and improved nutritional parameters (as compared with raw seeds), which makes them worthy of being considered as a potential food additive.
Review. Ochratoxin A: Presence in Human Plasma and Intake Estimation
Authors: Coronel M.B. , Sanchis V. , Ramos A.J. , Marin S.
Published: April 2010

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a fungal toxic secondary metabolite that can be found in several foodstuffs and thereby ingested by humans. One way to assess exposure of humans to OTA is the determination of the levels of this mycotoxin in blood plasma from a certain population. Such studies have been done in many countries, both in healthy people and nephropathy patients. Relationships with individual characteristics were investigated in several cases. Thus, most studies found no correlation with age, either with gender. However, the few studies that found correlation between OTA plasma levels and gender showed that men presented the highest values. When sampling was done over more than one season, the highest OTA plasma levels were found mostly in summer. Differences within regions of a country were related to dietary habits of each area. OTA levels of group populations showed variations from year to year, whereas intraindividual repetitions showed no specific trend. Daily intake of the toxin can be estimated from OTA plasma concentrations by the Klaassen equation. OTA toxicokinetics are considered in this review. Calculated daily intake of OTA by different studies did not overpass the proposed tolerable daily intakes of OTA.
The limits of governmentality: Social theory and the international
Authors: Joseph Jonathan
Published: April 2010

Foucault’s concept of governmentality goes beyond the narrow limits of state power to look at how these societies employ more subtle methods of power exercised through a network of institutions, practices, procedures and techniques which act to regulate social conduct. This approach is now gaining influence in International Relations and this piece reflects on this emerging field and tries to steer the debate in a certain direction. It is concerned to explore the limitations of the concept as a social theoretical explanation and also as an account of the international domain. It suggests that because the international domain is highly uneven, governmentality can only usefully be applied to those areas that might be characterized as having an advanced form of liberalism. To explain these limits requires that governmentality be set within a wider theorization of social context.
The influence of ground reflectance on the overcast sky luminance
Authors: Kocifaj M.
Published: April 2010

The approximate analytical expressions for overcast sky luminance depending on both the physical state of the atmosphere and the reflectance of an underlying ground surface are derived and verified against numerical calculations. The physical parameters (such as ground reflectance, scattering efficiency of the atmosphere and/or atmospheric optical depth) make the model easily-scalable and feasible for describing sky luminance under various meteorological conditions. Despite the significant simplifications applied in the theoretical derivations, the approximate formulae can provide satisfactorily accurate data (contrary to empirical models in current use). Because the analytical equations enable extremely fast calculations, the presented approach is suitable for rapid modelling of daylight availability.
System Entity Structure Ontological Data Fusion Process Integrated with C2 Systems
Authors: Lee Hojun , Zeigler Bernard P.
Published: April 2010

With the advent of Network-Centric Warfare (NCW) concepts, Command and Control (C2) systems need efficient methods to produce, exchange, and consume diverse kinds of information within the networks. The System Entity Structure (SES) is an ontology framework that can facilitate information exchange in a network environment. From the perspective of the SES information exchange framework, the Battle Management Language (BML) serves to specify the information desired by a consumer in an unambiguous way. This paper formulates information exchange in the SES ontology via BML and defines novel pruning and transformation processes of the SES to extract and fuse data into higher-level representations. This supports increased interoperability between human users and other sensor systems. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed information exchange framework for data fusion systems, we illustrate the approach in an air defense operation scenario using Discrete Event System Specification (DEVS) modeling and simulation. The demonstration shows that the information requested by a commander is delivered in the right way at the right time so that it can support agile decision making against threats.
Lipid lowering goals: back to nature?
Authors: Hochholzer Willibald , Giugliano Robert P.
Published: April 2010

Hypercholesterolemia is one of the main risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis. Decades of research have shown that lower cholesterol is better, but how low should we go? The average low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level in the untreated western population is ∼130 mg/dl. However, insights from the early phase of life in animals and humans suggest that adult humans were genetically designed for much lower lipids level than is currently considered ‘average’. Adult animals in the wild and more primitive contemporary human societies share diets that are low in fats, and have similar very low blood cholesterol levels. Furthermore, extrapolation of data from meta-analyses of large trials suggest that the incidence of cardiovascular events would approach zero if the LDL-C were <60 mg/dl in primary prevention and approximately 30 mg/dl in secondary prevention. Such goals, which are considerably lower than the recommendations in current guidelines, might be attainable with the use of newer more potent lipid-lowering therapies. To date, achieving such low lipid levels appears safe, but the generalizability of these findings to broader populations and the clinical benefit on the reduction of cardiovascular complications remains to be proven.
Review: Diagnosis and management of Barrett’s esophagus for the endoscopist
Authors: Garud Sagar S. , Keilin Steven , Qiang Cai  , Willingham Field F.
Published: April 2010

In Barrett’s esophagus, the stratified squamous epithelium lining the esophagus is replaced by specialized intestinal-type columnar epithelium. The prevalence of Barrett’s esophagus has ranged from 0.9% to 4.5%. The rate of progression from Barrett’s esophagus to esophageal adenocarcinoma is 0.5% per patient-year. Proton-pump inhibitors are the mainstay of symptom control in Barrett’s patients. Nondysplastic Barrett’s and Barrett’s with low-grade dysplasia (LGD) are typically managed by periodic surveillance. Radiofrequency ablation is being evaluated as a modality for managing nondysplastic Barrett’s and Barrett’s with LGD. The options for the management of Barrett’s patients with high-grade dysplasia (HGD) include endoscopic therapy, surgery, and intensive surveillance until biopsy reveals adenocarcinoma. Endoscopic therapy involves endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and ablation. More aggressive techniques such as endoscopic submucosal dissection and larger segment endoscopic mucosal resection are under study. In this review, we discuss the diagnosis and management of Barrett’s esophagus. The recommendations from the major gastroenterologic societies and the current and investigational endoscopic modalities for the management of Barrett’s esophagus with and without dysplasia are reviewed.
Traumatic Ipsilateral Multiple Open Metatarsal and Calcaneal Fractures With First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Dislocation
Authors: Ozkan Namik Kemal , Unay Koray , Cift Hakan , Eceviz Engin , Ozkan Korhan
Published: April 2010

A 17-year-old man fell from a height of 10 m onto his right forefoot and sustained ipsilateral calcaneal, comminuted cuboid, and second, third, and fourth metatarsal neck fractures and first metatarsophalangeal joint open dislocation. This report discusses this rare injury. The authors believe that initial debridement with immediate surgical fixation and reduction with appropriate antibiotic treatment saved the patient’s extremity.
Single-Screw Fixation for Subtalar Joint Fusion Does Not Increase Nonunion Rate
Authors: DeCarbo William T. , Berlet Gregory C. , Hyer Christopher F. , Smith W. Bret
Published: April 2010

A philosophical shift toward more joint-sparing procedures has led to increased use of isolated subtalar joint (STJ) versus triple arthrodesis. Union rates for STJ fusion range from 47% to 100%, leading to controversy regarding the optimal type, orientation, and amount of internal fixation. The purpose of this study was to determine if single-screw fixation is a predisposing factor to nonunion. Single-screw fixation is parallel to the STJ axis and may result in motion. It is hypothesized that higher nonunion rates will be observed in single-screw versus 2-screw fusions. Isolated STJ arthrodeses performed in 113 patients were retrospectively reviewed. Single screws were used in 89 (78.8%) fusions; 2 screws were used in 24 (21.2%) fusions. The mean follow-up was 11 months (range, 9-17 months). Nonunion occurred in 13 (14.6%) single-screw and 6 (25.0%) 2-screw fusions. Twenty (22.5%) single-screw and 3 (12.5%) 2-screw fusions required hardware removal. Revision surgery was performed in 6 (6.7%) single-screw and 3 (12.5%) 2-screw fusions. No significant differences in demographics were calculated between single and 2-screw fusions. Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in nonunion rate, postoperative complication incidence, or subsequent surgeries. The results from this study do not support the contention that single-screw fixation predisposes STJ fusions to nonunion. Comparable nonunion and complication incidences were observed between single and 2-screw fusions. These data suggest that the motion occurring from single-screw fixation may not be significant enough to directly affect the rate of union.
Trinity Evolution
Authors: Rush Shannon M.
Published: April 2010

Trinity Evolution Cryopreserved Cell Viable Bone Matrix is a minimally manipulated, human cellular, and tissue-based allograft containing adult mesenchymal stem cells, osteoprogenitor cells, and a demineralized cortical component. The cancellous bone used to produce Trinity Evolution is derived from freshly recovered donor tissue by Food and Drug Administration—registered facilities and processed under aseptic conditions. Preclinical in vivo and in vitro testing as well as strict donor screening has demonstrated the safety of Trinity Evolution as well as its osteoinductive and osteogenic potential contained within a natural osteoconductive matrix.
Vaccination with synthetic analog peptides derived from WT1 oncoprotein induces T-cell responses in patients with complete remission from acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Maslak Peter G. , Dao Tao , Krug Lee M. , Chanel Suzanne , Korontsvit Tatyana , Zakhaleva Victoria , Zhang Ronghua , Wolchok Jedd D. , Yuan Jianda , Pinilla-Ibarz Javier , Berman Ellin , Weiss Mark , Jurcic Joseph , Frattini Mark G. , Scheinberg David A.
Published: April 2010

A pilot study was undertaken to assess the safety, activity, and immunogenicity of a polyvalent Wilms tumor gene 1 (WT1) peptide vaccine in patients with acute myeloid leukemia in complete remission but with molecular evidence of WT1 transcript. Patients received 6 vaccinations with 4 WT1 peptides (200 μg each) plus immune adjuvants over 12 weeks. Immune responses were evaluated by delayed-type hypersensitivity, CD4+ T-cell proliferation, CD3+ T-cell interferon-γ release, and WT1 peptide tetramer staining. Of the 9 evaluable patients, 7 completed 6 vaccinations and WT1-specific T-cell responses were noted in 7 of 8 patients. Three patients who were HLA-A0201-positive showed significant increase in interferon-γ–secreting cells and frequency of WT1 tetramer-positive CD8+ T cells. Three patients developed a delayed hypersensitivity reaction after vaccination. Definite related toxicities were minimal. With a mean follow-up of 30 plus or minus 8 months after diagnosis, median disease-free survival has not been reached. These preliminary data suggest that this polyvalent WT1 peptide vaccine can be administered safely to patients with a resulting immune response. Further studies are needed to establish the role of vaccination as viable postremission therapy for acute myeloid leukemia. This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00398138.
Rebalanced hemostasis in patients with liver disease: evidence and clinical consequences
Authors: Lisman Ton , Porte Robert J.
Published: April 2010

Patients with liver disease frequently acquire a complex disorder of hemostasis secondary to their disease. Routine laboratory tests such as the prothrombin time and the platelet count are frequently abnormal and point to a hypocoagulable state. With more sophisticated laboratory tests it has been shown that patients with liver disease may be in hemostatic balance as a result of concomitant changes in both pro- and antihemostatic pathways. Clinically, this rebalanced hemostatic system is reflected by the large proportion of patients with liver disease who can undergo major surgery without any requirement for blood product transfusion. However, the hemostatic balance in the patient with liver disease is relatively unstable as evidenced by the occurrence of both bleeding and thrombotic complications in a significant proportion of patients. Although it is still common practice to prophylactically correct hemostatic abnormalities in patients with liver disease before invasive procedures by administration of blood products guided by the prothrombin time and platelet count, we believe that this policy is not evidence-based. In this article, we will provide arguments against the traditional concept that patients with liver failure have a hemostasis-related bleeding tendency. Consequences of these new insights for hemostatic management will be discussed.
Damaged DNA-binding protein 2 (DDB2) protects against UV irradiation in human cells and Drosophila
Authors: Sun Nian-Kang , Sun Chun-Ling , Lin Chia-Hua , Pai Li-Mai , Chao Chuck CK
Published: April 2010

Background

We observed previously that cisplatin-resistant HeLa cells were cross-resistant to UV light due to accumulation of DDB2, a protein implicated in DNA repair. More recently, we found that cFLIP, which represents an anti-apoptotic protein whose level is induced by DDB2, was implicated in preventing apoptosis induced by death-receptor signaling. In the present study, we investigated whether DDB2 has a protective role against UV irradiation and whether cFLIP is also involved in this process.

Methods

We explored the role of DDB2 in mediating UV resistance in both human cells and Drosophila. To do so, DDB2 was overexpressed by using a full-length open reading frame cDNA. Conversely, DDB2 and cFLIP were suppressed by using antisense oligonucleotides. Cell survival was measured using a colony forming assay. Apoptosis was monitored by examination of nuclear morphology, as well as by flow cytometry and Western blot analyses. A transcription reporter assay was also used to assess transcription of cFLIP.

Results

We first observed that the cFLIP protein was upregulated in UV-resistant HeLa cells. In addition, the cFLIP protein could be induced by stable expression of DDB2 in these cells. Notably, the anti-apoptotic effect of DDB2 against UV irradiation was largely attenuated by knockdown of cFLIP with antisense oligonucleotides in HeLa cells. Moreover, overexpression of DDB2 did not protect against UV in VA13 and XP-A cell lines which both lack cFLIP. Interestingly, ectopic expression of human DDB2 in Drosophila dramatically inhibited UV-induced fly death compared to control GFP expression. On the other hand, expression of DDB2 failed to rescue a different type of apoptosis induced by the genes Reaper or eiger.

Conclusion

Our results show that DDB2 protects against UV stress in a cFLIP-dependent manner. In addition, the protective role of DDB2 against UV irradiation was found to be conserved in divergent living organisms such as human and Drosophila. In addition, UV irradiation may activate a cFLIP-regulated apoptotic pathway in certain cells.
A knowledge-guided strategy for improving the accuracy of scoring functions in binding affinity prediction
Authors: Cheng Tiejun , Liu Zhihai , Wang Renxiao
Published: April 2010

Background

Current scoring functions are not very successful in protein-ligand binding affinity prediction albeit their popularity in structure-based drug designs. Here, we propose a general knowledge-guided scoring (KGS) strategy to tackle this problem. Our KGS strategy computes the binding constant of a given protein-ligand complex based on the known binding constant of an appropriate reference complex. A good training set that includes a sufficient number of protein-ligand complexes with known binding data needs to be supplied for finding the reference complex. The reference complex is required to share a similar pattern of key protein-ligand interactions to that of the complex of interest. Thus, some uncertain factors in protein-ligand binding may cancel out, resulting in a more accurate prediction of absolute binding constants.

Results

In our study, an automatic algorithm was developed for summarizing key protein-ligand interactions as a pharmacophore model and identifying the reference complex with a maximal similarity to the query complex. Our KGS strategy was evaluated in combination with two scoring functions (X-Score and PLP) on three test sets, containing 112 HIV protease complexes, 44 carbonic anhydrase complexes, and 73 trypsin complexes, respectively. Our results obtained on crystal structures as well as computer-generated docking poses indicated that application of the KGS strategy produced more accurate predictions especially when X-Score or PLP alone did not perform well.

Conclusions

Compared to other targeted scoring functions, our KGS strategy does not require any re-parameterization or modification on current scoring methods, and its application is not tied to certain systems. The effectiveness of our KGS strategy is in theory proportional to the ever-increasing knowledge of experimental protein-ligand binding data. Our KGS strategy may serve as a more practical remedy for current scoring functions to improve their accuracy in binding affinity prediction.
Starr: Simple Tiling ARRay analysis of Affymetrix ChIP-chip data
Authors: Zacher Benedikt , Kuan Pei Fen , Tresch Achim
Published: April 2010

Background

Chromatin immunoprecipitation combined with DNA microarrays (ChIP-chip) is an assay used for investigating DNA-protein-binding or post-translational chromatin/histone modifications. As with all high-throughput technologies, it requires thorough bioinformatic processing of the data for which there is no standard yet. The primary goal is to reliably identify and localize genomic regions that bind a specific protein. Further investigation compares binding profiles of functionally related proteins, or binding profiles of the same proteins in different genetic backgrounds or experimental conditions. Ultimately, the goal is to gain a mechanistic understanding of the effects of DNA binding events on gene expression.

Results

We present a free, open-sourceR/Bioconductor packageStarrthat facilitates comparative analysis of ChIP-chip data across experiments and across different microarray platforms. The package provides functions for data import, quality assessment, data visualization and exploration.Starrincludes high-level analysis tools such as the alignment of ChIP signals along annotated features, correlation analysis of ChIP signals with complementary genomic data, peak-finding and comparative display of multiple clusters of binding profiles. It uses standard Bioconductor classes for maximum compatibility with other software. Moreover,Starrautomatically updates microarray probe annotation files by a highly efficient remapping of microarray probe sequences to an arbitrary genome.

Conclusion

Starris anRpackage that covers the complete ChIP-chip workflow from data processing to binding pattern detection. It focuses on the high-level data analysis, e.g., it provides methods for the integration and combined statistical analysis of binding profiles and complementary functional genomics data.Starrenables systematic assessment of binding behaviour for groups of genes that are alingned along arbitrary genomic features.