bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change in sinus membrane dimension following sinus floor elevation: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Anduze‐Acher Guillaume , Brochery Benoit , Felizardo Rufino , Valentini Pascal , Katsahian Sandrine , Bouchard Philippe
Published: June 2012

Objectives

To investigate: (1) the effect of the lateral window technique for maxillary sinus augmentation on sinus membrane thickness, and (2) to identify factors associated with the mean postoperative surgical space.

Material and methods

This retrospective cohort study included 37 sinuses corresponding to 37 consecutive patients referred for maxillary sinus augmentation procedures aiming to increase with deproteinized bovine bone the surgical space for dental implant placement in the posterior maxilla. A total of 74 preoperative and postoperative computed tomography were analyzed with regard to the thickness of the sinus membrane. A linear regression model was used to explain the difference between the mean preoperative and postoperative surgical space

Results

No significant change in the membrane thickness was shown between pre and postoperative CT scans. The mean height of the graft was 12 mm (P < 0.001), resulting in a significant augmentation of the surgical space (P < 0.001). The multivariate analysis performed to identify variables associated with the postoperative surgical space shows that current smoking significantly reduces the chance to achieve the mean value of the surgical space normally expected in this type of surgical procedure (P = 0.02). No significant effect of complications, history of periodontal disease or ENT was found.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that: (1) sinus floor augmentation via a lateral approach with deproteinized bovine bone alone has no impact on the natural sinus physiology; and (2) that the mean postoperative surgical space may be affected by smoking.
In Vivo Barrier Challenge and Initial Recovery in Human Facial Skin
Authors: Gorcea Mihaela , Hadgraft Jonathan , Moore David J. , Lane Majella E.
Published: June 2012

Background

Many in vivo biophysical studies focus on parts of the body which are generally less exposed to the environment compared with facial skin. This study characterizes in vivo changes in the barrier function of cheek stratum corneum (SC) during controlled conditions of damage.

Objectives

The objective was to investigate structural and compositional changes in cheek SC in vivo using tape stripping and Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy.

Methods

In vivo ATR‐FTIR spectra of the cheek were collected before and after tape stripping. Trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements from the same site were conducted before and after stripping. Data were also collected 24 h after the last tape strip to investigate any initial recovery process.

Results

Sequential tape stripping of the cheek progressively increases TEWL to twice baseline values but some barrier recovery is evident 24 h later. ATR‐FTIR spectra show increasing water content within the SC with each tape strip with concomitant increase in lipid conformational order.

Conclusions

Several structural and compositional parameters have been analyzed for cheek SC and these have been correlated with barrier function. The depth dependent changes in face SC map those in body skin but over a much shorter distance.
Dynamics of Rab7b‐Dependent Transport of Sorting Receptors
Authors: Progida Cinzia , Nielsen Morten S. , Koster Gerbrand , Bucci Cecilia , Bakke Oddmund
Published: June 2012

The small GTPase Rab7b localizes to late endosomes–lysosomes and to the Golgi, regulating the transport between these two intracellular compartments. We have recently demonstrated that depletion of Rab7b causes missorting of the cation‐independent mannose 6‐phosphate receptor (CI‐MPR), suggesting that Rab7b may control the trafficking of this receptor. Here we further investigated the function of this small GTPase with special attention to its role in the trafficking of sorting receptors and dynamics in living cells. Using endosome‐to‐Golgi retrieval assays we show that Rab7b is involved not only in CI‐MPR transport but also in the MPRs independent pathway. Indeed, we find that it regulates and interacts with sortilin, a mannose 6‐phosphate‐independent sorting receptor. CI‐MPR and sortilin are sorted from the trans‐Golgi network (TGN) in tubular structures and the expression of Rab7b mutants or its silencing reduces CI‐MPR and sortilin tubulation. In addition, the constitutively active mutant Rab7b Q67L impairs the formation of carriers from TGN. Collectively, our observations show for the first time that Rab7b is required for transport from endosomes to the TGN, not only of the CI‐MPR, but also of sortilin, and that alterations in this transport result in impaired carrier formation from TGN.
Evidence‐based prevention: a comparison of oral hygiene advice given by dental and dental care professional students
Authors: Morgan MZ , Verkroost S , Hunter L
Published: June 2012

Aim

This study aimed to examine the oral hygiene advice given by student dentists and dental care professionals (DCPs), focussing on adherence to evidence‐based recommendations provided by the Department of Health and the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network.

Method

A self‐administered questionnaire was distributed to 121 fourth‐ and fifth‐year dental undergraduates and 38 hygiene/combined dental hygiene and dental therapy students at a UK dental school.

Results

Completed questionnaires were returned by 39/64 fourth‐year and 36/57 fifth‐year dental students and 23/38 student DCPs, an overall response rate of 61.6%. Only 48% (36) of dental undergraduates in comparison with 95.7% (22) of DCP students stated that they would give oral hygiene advice to every adult patient (P < 0.001). In addition, only 24 (32%) responding dental students were able to accurately state the recommended fluoride toothpaste concentration for adult use; this contrasts with 18 (78.3%) student DCPs. Dental undergraduates tended to accord less importance to oral hygiene advice when compared with student DCPs, only providing it when they felt it was clinically necessary.

Conclusions

The role of the dental practitioner in providing oral health education requires greater emphasis in the undergraduate curriculum. Given the unfavourable comparison between the attitude and knowledge of dental students and that of DCPs, prequalification training for the dental team should be integrated wherever possible. The apparent lack of awareness of current guidelines is of concern.
Prediction of organ transplant rejection by HLA‐specific and non‐HLA antibodies – brief literature review
Authors: Slavcev A.
Published: June 2012

The application of solid‐phase assays for detection and definition of Human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐specific antibodies has significantly facilitated the diagnosis and monitoring of treatment of antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR). There is, however, a major discussion in the literature concerning the clinical relevance of the use of the Luminex technique for the prediction of cellular and/or AMR and survival. This may be explained on one hand by the complexities of the method and on the other by variations in patient demographic characteristics, immunosuppression and other factors. As far as non‐HLA antibodies, it is clear that they may induce AMR; nevertheless, a difficult problem in their definition remains the fact that most of the non‐HLA antigens still remain to be identified. Hereby is a short literature review of several recent publications discussing the role of HLA‐ and non‐HLA‐specific antibodies in organ transplant rejection and survival.
Museum Exhibition on Testing and Measurement: Scientific Principles, Social Impact of Testing, and Dialogue With the Public
Authors: Allalouf Avi , Alderoqui‐Pinus Diana
Published: June 2012

This article deals with a pioneering project currently being developed, namely, the Exhibition on Testing and Measurement. This interactive traveling exhibition will be presented in science museums in Israel, the United States, and other countries. It has been conceived as an innovative means of familiarizing the public with educational measurement concepts and scientific principles. The exhibition will initiate and encourage a dialogue regarding the social aspects of testing. Science centers and museums can play a vital role in helping to forge a more authentic relationship between science and society. Presenting an exhibition on testing and measurement in a science museum is an excellent way to engage the public in a discussion on the benefits and risks of measurement in our society. In this article we discuss the opportunities that this exhibition offers the challenges of converting theory into interactive exhibits, the feedback received thus far, and the current status of the exhibition.
Introduction of External, Independent Testing in “New Countries”: Successes and Defeats of the Introduction of Modern Educational Assessment Techniques in Former Soviet and Socialist Countries
Authors: Bakker Steven
Published: June 2012

A particular trait of the educational system under socialist reign was accountability at the input side—appropriate facilities, centrally decided curriculum, approved text‐books, and uniformly trained teachers—but no control on the output. It was simply assumed that it met the agreed standards, which was, in turn, proven by the statistics provided by authorities.
The introduction of professional testing methods for national large‐scale assessment efforts and participation in international surveys such as Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) unveiled the myth of the traditional “all is good” message spread by the former party rulers. But another aspect of the introduction of external independent testing has probably even had a bigger impact: the fight against the pervasive corruption in student admission it became part of. If any, the successful use of independent external testing in this struggle has done a lot to have its methods accepted by the audience at large.
The article describes the experiences of the author as a senior consultant to ministries and newly established testing institutes in former Soviet and socialist republics.
Antioxidant Activities and Phenolic Compounds of Pigmented Rice Bran Extracts
Authors: Jun Hyun‐Il , Song Geun‐Seoup , Yang Eun‐In , Youn Young , Kim Young‐Soo
Published: June 2012

Abstract:  This study was carried out to investigate the antioxidant activities and phenolic compounds of pigmented rice (black, red, and green rice) and brown rice brans. Antioxidant activity was determined by using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical assay, 2,2‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylenebenzothiozoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical cation assay, reducing power, and chelating ability. Phenolic compounds were measured by using HPLC. Pigmented rice brans were extracted by using aqueous mixtures of acetone, ethanol, and methanol to determine the most effective extraction solvent. Of all solvents examined, extract from 40:60 acetone–water mixtures (v/v) provided the highest DPPH radical assay as well as the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content. We finally selected 40% acetone as an extraction solvent for antioxidant study of pigmented rice bran. Antioxidant activities of 40% acetone extracts of pigmented rice bran, measured in the range of 0 to 1500 μg/mL. At 500 μg/mL concentration, red rice bran, which had the highest total phenolic (259.5 μg/mg) and total flavonoid (187.4 μg/mg) contents, showed the highest antioxidant activity: 83.6%, 71.5%, 1.2%, and 16.4% for DPPH radical assay, ABTS radical cation assay, reducing power, and chelating ability, respectively. Red rice bran showed a lower EC50 value (112.6 μg/mL) than that of butylated hydroxytoluene (144.5 μg/mL) from the DPPH radical assay. The major phenolic acids of red rice bran were ferulic, vanillic and p‐coumaric acids. The results indicated pigmented rice bran might be used as a natural antioxidant.

Practical Application:  The present study revealed black and red rice bran shows high antioxidant activities and they contain high amount of phenolic compounds. Indeed, black and red rice bran could be better raw materials for manufacturing the food with high antioxidant activity.
Efficacy of Different Sanitizing Agents and Their Combination on Microbe Population and Quality of Fresh‐cut Chinese Chives
Authors: Dai Xiaomei , Luo Haibo , Jiang Li , Ling Li , Xue Yanjun , Yu Zhifang
Published: June 2012

Abstract:  The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of individual sanitizing agents (sodium hypochlorite, SH; peracetic acid, PA; chlorine dioxide, CD) and the combination of CD and PA on reducing the total aerobic bacteria, coliforms as well as their effects on ascorbic acid (Vc), chlorophyll, and a* value of Chinese chives. All sanitizing treatments significantly (P < 0.05) reduced microorganisms compared to the control. After treatment with single SH, PA, and CD, the reduction of the total aerobic bacteria on Chinese chives was <1.0 log CFU/g (where colony‐forming units is CFU), approximately 1.68 to 2.22 log CFU/g, and approximately 0.99 to 2.85 log CFU/g, respectively. The greatest reduction of total aerobic bacteria achieved by the combination of 40 ppm CD, 150 ppm PA for 8 min, was 2.45 log CFU/g. This treatment had a slight discoloration effect as indicated by a* value and chlorophyll content; and is therefore the optimal combination for reducing microorganisms on Chinese chives.

Practical Application:  Fresh‐cut vegetables are known to be susceptible to contamination; and subsequent growth of microorganisms result in quality concerns. Chinese chive leaves are hollow, cylindrical, and are more inclined to accumulate microbes. Currently, there is limited information on the decontamination of Chinese chives. This research focused on the evaluation of sanitation options for fresh‐cut Chinese chives; and the information obtained should be applicable and useful in other fresh‐cut vegetables.
Mechanism of thrombocytopenia in chronic hepatitis C as evaluated by the immature platelet fraction
Authors: ZUCKER M. L. , HAGEDORN C. H. , MURPHY C. A. , STANLEY S. , REID K. J. , SKIKNE B. S.
Published: June 2012

Introduction:  Thrombocytopenia occurs frequently in chronic hepatitis C. The mechanism of this association was investigated utilizing the immature platelet fraction (IPF%) as an index of platelet production together with assay of thrombopoietin (TPO).

Methods:  In a cross‐sectional study, 47 patients with chronic hepatitis C were studied, 29 with thrombocytopenia and 18 without thrombocytopenia (six patients in each group were on interferon therapy).

Results:  IPF% was elevated in the thrombocytopenic compared with the nonthrombocytopenic group (9.0 ± 4.8%vs. 4.7 ± 2.4%, P < 0.001), and an increase in IPF% was significantly associated with thrombocytopenia on multivariable analysis (P < 0.05). Splenomegaly was more common in thrombocytopenic than in nonthrombocytopenic subjects (66%vs. 6%, P < 0.001), and on multivariable analysis, splenomegaly was the factor associated with the highest relative risk of thrombocytopenia (RR = 1.9, P < 0.05). IPF% values were elevated in a similar proportion of thrombocytopenic patients with and without splenomegaly (58% and 60%, respectively). There was no difference in TPO levels between thrombocytopenic and nonthrombocytopenic patients, and TPO levels were not related to the risk of thrombocytopenia on multivariable analysis. Significantly more thrombocytopenic than nonthrombocytopenic subjects had abnormal liver function tests, cirrhosis, and portal hypertension, and a decrease in serum albumin was significantly associated with thrombocytopenia (P < 0.005) on multivariable analysis.

Conclusions:  Factors associated with liver disease in general are associated with thrombocytopenia in chronic hepatitis C. Peripheral platelet destruction or sequestration is the major mechanism for thrombocytopenia, with hypersplenism being an important cause. Low TPO levels were not related to the occurrence of thrombocytopenia in this study.
An Air‐Cooled, High‐Yield, Compact and Inexpensive Teflon Still for High‐Purity Reagents
Authors: Gopalan Kunchithapadam
Published: June 2012

Mattinson’s (1972) well‐known simple design of a sub‐boiling still for the preparation of ultra high‐purity reagents consists of two Teflon bottles connected at right angles with one acting as the feed bottle and heated on its upper surface by infrared radiation and the other kept in a cold water bath serving both as the condenser and receiver. Connection of the two bottles in a vertical configuration and replacement of radiative surface heating with conductive bulk heating result in an equally simple and inexpensive still but with a smaller footprint, much larger yield and higher energy efficiency using only ambient air cooling. It can be easily configured for tandem distillation, supply of continuously purified reagent and fractional distillation. Ease and very low cost of fabrication of this still may be of particular interest to many geochemical laboratories requiring up to 500 ml of mineral acids and other common reagents per day.
Early male maturity explains a negative correlation in reproductive success between hatchery‐spawned salmon and their naturally spawning progeny
Authors: Ford Michael , Murdoch Andrew , Howard Sharon
Published: June 2012

Adaptation of plants or animals to captivity is a risk associated with any captive breeding program that has the intent of returning organisms to the wild. The risk is particularly acute for species that are captively bred and released on a large scale, as is the case for many species of fish. Several studies, particularly in salmonids, have reported rapid adaptation of populations to captivity, but the mechanisms of such adaptations are not always clear. We evaluated a large three‐generation pedigree of an artificially supplemented salmon population, and found that the fish with the highest reproductive success in captivity produce early maturing male offspring that have lower than average reproductive success in the wild. In contrast to an earlier study of steelhead trout, we found little evidence that parental origin of the captive spawners influenced the subsequent reproductive success of their naturally spawning progeny.
NATURAL RESOURCE ABUNDANCE, INSTITUTIONS AND TAX REVENUE MOBILISATION IN SUB‐SAHARA AFRICA
Authors: BOTLHOLE THUTO , ASAFU‐ADJAYE JOHN , CARMIGNANI FABRIZIO
Published: June 2012

The contribution of natural resources to tax revenues has generally yielded mixed results in the literature. This study asserts that the missing link to explaining these differences is the quality of institutions. More resource revenues reduce tax revenues when institutions are poor. Using an interaction term for natural resources and institutional quality, we show that institutions are decisive for the contribution of natural resources to tax revenue mobilisation. The interaction effect is statistically significant after controlling for per capita gross domestic product (GDP), an alternative measure of quality of institutions and additional regressors. This finding is robust to different econometric specifications and the type of natural resources.
Diagnostic Yield and Adverse Effects of MRI‐Guided Free‐Hand Brain Biopsies through a Mini‐Burr Hole in Dogs with Encephalitis
Authors: Flegel T. , Oevermann A. , Oechtering G. , Matiasek K.
Published: June 2012

Background

The diagnosis of encephalitis is usually presumptive based onMRI, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, or both. A definitive diagnosis based on histopathology, however, is required for optimizing treatment strategies.

Objective

To investigate the diagnostic yield and adverse effects of minimally invasive brain biopsies in dogs with encephalitis.

Animals

Seventeen dogs with suspected encephalitis, based onMRimaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

Methods

Retrospective study. Minimally invasive, free‐hand brain biopsy specimens were taken from forebrain lesions through a 4‐mm burr hole using a Sedan side‐cutting needle. Routine histopathological examination was performed. The adverse effects were assessed byMRIevaluations after biopsy procedure (12/17) and by sequential neurological examinations.

Results

The overall diagnostic yield with regard to a specific type of encephalitis was 82%. Encephalitis was evident in an additional 12%, but a specific disease could not be determined. There were no deaths caused by the biopsy procedure itself, but the indirect case fatality rate was 6%. Morbidity was 29%, including stupor, seizures, tetraparesis, hemiparesis, ataxia, and loss of conscious proprioception. All these signs resolved within 3–14 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Minimally invasive brain biopsy in dogs with suspected encephalitis leads to a definite diagnosis in the majority of dogs, allowing for a specific treatment. The advantages of a definite diagnosis outweigh potential case fatality rate and temporary neurological deficits.
Comparing two independent groups: A test based on a one‐step M‐estimator and bootstrap‐t
Authors: Özdemir A. Fırat
Published: June 2012

A new test is proposed for the problem of comparing two independent groups in terms of some measure of location. The proposed test () uses a one‐step M‐estimator and a bootstrap‐tmethod with the procedure proposed byÖzdemir and Kurt (2006). Eight methods were compared in terms of actual Type I error and power when the underlying distributions differ in skewness and kurtosis under heterogeneity of variances. For the 21 theoretical distributions, the Yuen test with the bootstrap‐tmethod was the most favourable, followed bytest. For the five real data sets, the proposedtest and percentile bootstrap method with the one‐step M‐estimator performed best.
Evaluation of Methods for Thermal Management in a Coal-Based SOFC Turbine Hybrid Through Numerical Simulation
Authors: Tucker David , VanOsdol John , Liese Eric , Lawson Larry , Zitney Stephen , Gemmen Randall , Ford J. Christopher , Haynes Comas
Published: June 2012

Managing the temperatures and heat transfer in the fuel cell of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) gas turbine (GT) hybrid fired on coal syngas presents certain challenges over a natural gas based system, in that the latter can take advantage of internal reforming to offset heat generated in the fuel cell. Three coal based SOFC/GT configuration designs for thermal management in the main power block are evaluated using steady state numerical simulations developed in ASPEN PLUS. A comparison is made on the basis of efficiency, operability issues and component integration. To focus on the effects of different power block configurations, the analysis assumes a consistent syngas composition in each case, and does not explicitly include gasification or syngas cleanup. A fuel cell module rated at 240 MW was used as a common basis for three different methods. Advantages and difficulties for each configuration are identified in the simulations.
A Fast Implicit Algorithm for Time-Dependent Dynamic Simulations of Air Bearing Sliders
Authors: Hua Wei , Yu Shengkai , Zhou Weidong , Sett Myo Kyaw
Published: June 2012

An unstructured triangular mesh is successfully applied to the static simulations of air bearing sliders due to its flexibility, accuracy and mesh efficiency in capturing various complex rails and recess wall regions of air bearing surface, as well as fast simulation speed. This paper introduces a new implicit algorithm with second order time accuracy for the time-dependent simulations of the slider dynamics and available for the unstructured triangular mesh. The new algorithm is specially developed for the finite volume method. Since the algorithm has second order time accuracy, it provides the flexibility of applying various time steps while guaranteeing the numerical accuracy and convergence. Moreover, the unstructured triangular mesh is highly efficient and fewer nodes are used. Finally, due to the small variation of flying attitude between two neighboring time steps, it is especially efficient for iteration methods which are used in the finite volume method. As a result, the algorithm shows very fast speed in time-dependent dynamic simulations. Simulation studies are conducted on the flying dynamics of a thermal flying-height control slider after external excitations. The simulation results are compared with the simulation results obtained by the rectangular mesh based on the finite element method. It is observed that the simulation results are well correlated. The fast Fourier transform is also employed to analyze the air bearing frequencies. It is indicated that the new algorithm is of high efficiency and importance for time-dependent dynamic simulations.
How energy efficient is your car?
Authors: Roura Pere , Oliu Daniel
Published: June 2012

A detailed energy balance indicating how fuel energy is transferred from the engine to the wheels of a commercial car is obtained using non-specialized experiments that can be readily understood using elementary mechanics. These experiments allow us to determine the engine’s thermal efficiency, its mechanical losses, and the rolling (friction) and aerodynamic (drag) coefficients. We find that approximately 28% of the fuel energy is transferred to the wheels.
Simple, simpler, simplest: Spontaneous pattern formation in a commonplace system
Authors: Strombom Evelyn H. , Caicedo-Carvajal Carlos E. , Thyagu N. Nirmal , Palumbo Daniel , Shinbrot Troy
Published: June 2012

In 1855, Lord Kelvin’s brother, James Thomson, wrote a paper describing “certain curious motions” on liquid surfaces. In the present paper, we describe several curious motions produced in the simplest possible manner: by introducing a droplet of food coloring into a shallow dish of water. These motions include the spontaneous formation of labyrinthine stripes, the periodic pulsation leading to chaotic stretching and folding, and the formation of migrating slugs of coloring. We use this simple experiment to demonstrate that the formation of ordered macroscopic patterns is consistent with the requirement of the second law of Thermodynamics that microscopic disorder must increase. This system is suitable for undergraduate experimentation and can be modeled by advanced students in a straightforward finite difference simulation that reproduces the labyrinths and other patterns.
EFFECTS OF STIFFNESS ON SHORT, SEMIFLEXIBLE HOMOPOLYMER CHAINS
Authors: SEATON DANIEL T. , SCHNABEL STEFAN , BACHMANN MICHAEL , LANDAU DAVID P.
Published: June 2012

Conformational and transition behavior of finite, semiflexible homopolymers is studied using an extension of the Wang–Landau algorithm. Generation of a flat distribution in the sampling parameters energy and stiffness allows for efficient investigation of transitions between various conformational phases. Of particular importance is the ability to predict behavior for a given stiffness value, where three classes of minimum energy conformations are expected: Solid-globular, rod-like and toroidal. We present first results highlighting the behavior of a single N = 20 length chain.
SIMILARITY LEARNING BASED ON SEMI-SUPERVISED GRAPH FOR CLASSIFICATION
Authors: WANG QIANYING , YUEN PONG C. , FENG GUOCAN , WANG PATRICK S.
Published: June 2012

Similarity measurement is crucial for classification. Based on the manifold assumption, many graph-based algorithms were developed. Almost all methods follow the k-rule or ε-rule to construct a graph, and then focus on the algorithms based on the graph. However, the graph may not represent the local structure well, and it does not fully utilize the label information yet. The local structure can be presented by the local density and the distance between the samples and their neighbors. And the graph constructed by the guidance of label information will be better approximate of the relationship of the input data. In this paper, we propose an adaptive semi-supervised graph constructing method. The similarity is learned when constructing the graph. The advantages of the similarity learned by our method include: (1) The similarity is measured along the manifold by constructing a graph; (2) nearby points and points in the same cluster share high similarity; (3) samples from the same class have higher similarity than samples from different classes. Experimental results show that using the proposed similarity for classification task could get better recognition accuracy.
Stercoral Perforation Requiring Subtotal Colectomy in a Patient on Methadone Maintenance Therapy
Authors: Sakharpe A. , Lee Y. K. , Park G. , Dy V.
Published: June 2012

Stercoral perforation of the colon is a rare but serious complication of chronic constipation. We present a case of stercoral perforation requiring subtotal colectomy in a 41-year-old female who had been on methadone maintenance for a history of long-term intravenous heroin use. Our case highlights the importance of prompt and thorough surgical intervention in the successful treatment of this rare condition.
Focal Adhesion-Chromatin Linkage Controls Tumor Cell Resistance to Radio- and Chemotherapy
Authors: Storch Katja , Cordes Nils
Published: June 2012

Cancer resistance to therapy presents an ongoing and unsolved obstacle, which has clear impact on patient's survival. In order to address this problem, novelin vitromodels have been established and are currently developed that enable data generation in a more physiological context. For example, extracellular-matrix- (ECM-) based scaffolds lead to the identification of integrins and integrin-associated signaling molecules as key promoters of cancer cell resistance to radio- and chemotherapy as well as modern molecular agents. In this paper, we discuss the dynamic nature of the interplay between ECM, integrins, cytoskeleton, nuclear matrix, and chromatin organization and how this affects the response of tumor cells to various kinds of cytotoxic anticancer agents.
The Role of Continuous Peripheral Nerve Blocks
Authors: Aguirre José , Del Moral Alicia , Cobo Irina , Borgeat Alain , Blumenthal Stephan
Published: June 2012

A continuous peripheral nerve block (cPNB) is provided in the hospital and ambulatory setting. The most common use of CPNBs is in the peri- and postoperative period but different indications have been described like the treatment of chronic pain such as cancer-induced pain, complex regional pain syndrome or phantom limb pain. The documented benefits strongly depend on the analgesia quality and include decreasing baseline/dynamic pain, reducing additional analgesic requirements, decrease of postoperative joint inflammation and inflammatory markers, sleep disturbances and opioid-related side effects, increase of patient satisfaction and ambulation/functioning improvement, an accelerated resumption of passive joint range-of-motion, reducing time until discharge readiness, decrease in blood loss/blood transfusions, potential reduction of the incidence of postsurgical chronic pain and reduction of costs. Evidence deriving from randomized controlled trials suggests that in some situations there are also prolonged benefits of regional anesthesia after catheter removal in addition to the immediate postoperative effects. Unfortunately, there are only few data demonstrating benefits after catheter removal and the evidence of medium- or long-term improvements in health-related quality of life measures is still lacking. This review will give an overview of the advantages and adverse effects of cPNBs.
Becoming Resilient: Promoting the Mental Health and Well-Being of Immigrant Women in a Canadian Context
Authors: MacDonnell Judith A. , Dastjerdi Mahdieh , Bokore Nimo , Khanlou Nazilla
Published: June 2012

This paper reports on grounded theory findings that are relevant to promoting the mental health and well-being of immigrant women in Canada. The findings illustrate how relationships among settlement factors and dynamics of empowerment had implications for “becoming resilient” as immigrant women and how various health promotion approaches enhanced their well-being. Dimensions of empowerment were embedded in the content and process of the feminist health promotion approach used in this study. Four focus groups were completed in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with 35 racialized immigrant women who represented diverse countries of origin: 25 were from Africa; others were equally represented from South Asia (5), Asia (5), and Central or South America and the Caribbean (5). Participants represented diverse languages, family dynamics, and educational backgrounds. One focus group was conducted in Somali; three were conducted in English. Constructivist grounded theory, theoretical sampling, and a critical feminist approach were chosen to be congruent with health promotion research that fostered women’s empowerment. Findings foreground women’s agency in the study process, the ways that immigrant women name and frame issues relevant to their lives, and the interplay among individual, family, community, and structural dynamics shaping their well-being. Implications for mental health promotion are discussed.
Online Measurement Perspectives for Students’ Strategy Use: Tool Use within a Content Management System
Authors: Lust Griet , Elen Jan , Clarebout Geraldine
Published: June 2012

The current study investigates whether students’ tool use in a Content Management Systems (CMSs) for example, blackboard, WebCT, relates to students’ strategy use within a CMS-supported course. In this way, the study strives to explain the tool use differences, and furthermore, it strives to find (online) behavioral indications for students’ strategy use. Data were collected within a first-year undergraduate course “Learning & Instruction”. Students (n=182) reported their strategy use as measured through the Inventory of Learning Styles (Vermunt, 1998). Students’ tool use within the CMS was logged. K-means cluster analyses revealed four clusters that were characterized by different strategies and accompanying tool use. Specifically, two clusters revealed a tool use pattern that was in line with the behavioral profile of students’-reported strategy use. Interestingly, two clusters revealed a tool use pattern that was in contrast to the reported strategy use. These results raise questions with respect to students’ tool perceptions and students’ calibration capacities.
Morbidity and Mortality Outcomes of Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy at a Single Institution in Japan
Authors: Mizumoto Akiyoshi , Canbay Emel , Hirano Masamitsu , Takao Nobuyuki , Matsuda Takayuki , Ichinose Masumi , Yonemura Yutaka
Published: June 2012

Background. Even though cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are associated with a high morbidity and mortality rates, it has been reported that CRS and HIPEC improved survival of selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. We aimed to report morbidity and mortality results of CRS and HIPEC from a single institution in Japan.Methods and Results. Total of 284 procedures of CRS were performed on patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei, peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colon cancer and gastric cancer between 2007 and 2011 in our institution. The morbidity rate was 49% of all procedure, and grades I/II and grades III/IV complications were 28% and 17%, respectively. Most frequent complication was surgical site infections including intraabdominal abscess. The mortality rate was 3.5%, and reoperation was needed in 11% of all procedures. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) greater than 20 was the only significant factor for occurrence of postoperative complications (P<0.01). In contrast, HIPEC significantly reduced postoperative complications (P<0.05).Conclusions. The morbidity and mortality rates of our institution are comparable with previous reports that are in acceptable rates. Optimal patient selection such as patients with PCI less than 20 seems to be of paramount importance to CRS and HIPEC.
A Parallel Wavelet‐Based Algebraic Multigrid Black‐Box Solver and Preconditioner
Authors: Pereira Fabio Henrique , Nabeta Sílvio Ikuyo
Published: June 2012

This work introduces a new parallel wavelet‐based algorithm for algebraic multigrid method (PWAMG) using a variation of the standard parallel implementation of discrete wavelet transforms. This new approach eliminates the grid coarsening process in traditional algebraic multigrid setup phase simplifying its implementation on distributed memory machines. The PWAMG method is used as a parallel black‐box solver and as a preconditioner in some linear equations systems resulting from circuit simulations and 3D finite elements electromagnetic problems. The numerical results evaluate the efficiency of the new approach as a standalone solver and as preconditioner for the biconjugate gradient stabilized iterative method.
Natural Convection in an Inclined Porous Cavity with Spatial Sidewall Temperature Variations
Authors: Selamat M. S. , Roslan R. , Hashim I.
Published: June 2012

The natural convection in an inclined porous square cavity is investigated numerically. The left wall is assumed to have spatial sinusoidal temperature variations about a constant mean value, while the right wall is cooled. The horizontal walls are considered adiabatic. A finite difference method is used to solve numerically the nondimensional governing equations. The effects of the inclination angle of the cavity, the amplitude and wave numbers of the heated sidewall temperature variation on the natural convection in the cavity are studied. The maximum average Nusselt number occurs at different wave number. It also found that the inclination could influence the Nusselt number.
Benefit of Polyhexamethylene Biguanide in Fusarium Keratitis
Authors: Behrens-Baumann W. , Seibold M. , Hofmüller W. , Walter S. , Haeberle H. , Wecke T. , Tammer I. , Tintelnot K.
Published: June 2012

Purpose: To report a series of 3 patients with soft contact lens-related Fusarium keratitis. Two of them were treated with the antiamoebic polyhexamethylene biguanide 0.02% (PHMB) in combination with antifungal drugs, and 1 patient was treated with PHMB as sole antifungal regimen. Methods: Chart review of 3 patients treated with PHMB in Fusarium keratitis. Two of them were refractory to the commonly used therapy. The antifungal power of PHMB and propamidine isethionate was tested against the patients’ isolates as well as against the clinical isolates from another 9 patients with ocular mould infections. Results: An excellent outcome could be achieved in 2 patients with Fusarium solani keratitis refractory to common antifungal treatment by the additional use of PHMB 0.02%. In another patient PHMB alone was sufficient to resolve Fusarium proliferatum infection. The drug was well tolerated. In all patients repeated abrasion was done for better penetration of the drugs. PHMB revealed a marked in vitro antifungal activity for the three Fusarium isolates as well as for another 9 isolates of ocular infections from other patients including also the genera Scedosporium, Aspergillus and Rhizopus giving minimal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 1.56 to 3.12 µg/ml. Conclusions:Fusarium keratitis is a severe ocular infection. We report on the use of PHMB in 3 patients given additionally or as sole antifungal drug. We emphasize the benefit of PHMB 0.02% in Fusarium keratitis which might be considered as a therapeutic option especially in cases refractory to common antifungal therapy and possibly in keratitis due to other fungi.
Recombinant Human Growth Hormone Affects the Density and Functionality of GABAB Receptors in the Male Rat Brain
Authors: Grönbladh Alfhild , Johansson Jenny , Nyberg Fred , Hallberg Mathias
Published: June 2012

The beneficial effects of growth hormone (GH) on memory and learning have previously been confirmed in both humans and in animal models. An important role of GABAB receptors for multiple forms of learning and memory has also been reported. In this study, we examined the effect of GH on the density and functionality of the metabotropic GABAB receptors in the rat brain. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 24) divided into 3 groups were injected twice daily with recombinant human GH (0.07 or 0.7 IU/kg) for 7 days. The effects of the hormone were determined by quantitative autoradiography and by GABAB stimulated [35S]-GTPγS binding using the selective GABAB receptor agonist baclofen. The results demonstrate moderate but significant alterations in both receptor density and functionality in a number of brain regions. For example, a dose-dependent upregulation of GABAB receptors was found in the cingulate cortex, primary motor cortex and caudate putamen, whereas attenuation in the receptor density was encountered in, for example, the medial geniculate nucleus. Although the GH-induced effects on the GABAB receptor in brain areas associated with cognition were fairly pronounced, they were significant and we propose that the physiological responses observed after GH administration at least partly can be mediated through a mechanism involving GABAB receptors.
De Antwerpse 'witter ende paneelmaker' Melchior de Bout (werkzaam 1625/26-1658): leverancier van 'ready-made' panelen voor de Parijse markt
Authors: Koopstra Anna
Published: June 2012

On the back of several paintings on panel in the oeuvre of Willem Kalf, the panelmakers mark of Melchior de Bout has been found. Like his father Philip, De Bout was registered in Antwerp as a 'witter ende paneelmaker'. He thus seems to have specialised in producing panels that were covered, on both sides of the wooden support, with a preparatory (ground) layer consisting of chalk and glue. Occasionally, an imprimatura was also applied. De Bout's 'ready-made' panels were not only used by Willem Kalf, but also by Sebastian Stosskopf, Charles Le Brun, Jacques Linard, Lubin Baugin and Willem van Aelst. Since these artists were all working in Paris around the middle of the seventeenth century, it seems justified to conclude that for a certain time, the Antwerp panel maker specifically produced his panels for distribution in the French capital. The popularity of the panels of this highly specialised Antwerp panelmaker illustrates the strong appeal that the dynamic art market in Paris had for artists, art dealers and buyers from France and abroad.
The Early Modern City as a Resonating Box: Media, Public Opinion, and the Urban Space of the Holy Roman Empire, Cologne, and Hamburg ca. 1700
Authors: Bellingradt Daniel
Published: June 2012

Abstract

The article analyzes the media logic of urban acts of communication in early modern German cities. As is demonstrated by Cologne and Hamburg in the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, the growing use of print (particularly pamphlets) moved local conflict away from face-to-face confrontation into progressively more multifaceted modes of communication, increasingly expressed in both manuscript and print. In highlighting the mediality of early modern urban culture, the changing relationship between the urban community, public opinion, and forms of communication is addressed. The resulting effect from the interplay and complementation of oral, written, and printed means of communication is described as echoes that formed an urban resonating box—a constant polyphonic state including both the literate and illiterate.
Die Funktion der Häresienabwehr in der Alten Kirche
Authors: Scholten Clemens
Published: June 2012

Abstract

The heresiology and heresiography of the Early Church are usually regarded as belonging to the domains of pastoral care and dogmatic theology. This paper argues that anti-heretical statements of Christian authors should also be studied in connection with Christianity’s conflicts with non-Christian culture and society.
Children’s Rights in India: Parents’ and Teachers’ Attitudes, Knowledge and Perceptions
Authors: Deb Sibnath , Mathews Ben
Published: June 2012

Individuals’ attitudes influence their behaviour towards children, including whether children’s rights and welfare are promoted. The attitudes generally present in a society shape a culture of how children are perceived and treated. This study explored the attitudes and knowledge of 300 Indian parents and teachers regarding children’s rights, and their perceptions about whether selected rights were secured in reality. Findings revealed that most parents and teachers had positive attitudes about children’s rights, including rights to health and education, and freedom from child marriage and inappropriate work. Yet, about one quarter of participants did not think children should have the rights to freedom of expression and association. Knowledge of laws promoting children’s rights was poor. Most parents and teachers perceived a denial of seven key rights in Indian children’s lived experience. Overall, findings suggest a need to heighten awareness of children’s rights and needs, which can improve attitudes towards the treatment of children. Efforts to heighten awareness and attitudes towards children’s rights are needed across society and in key sectors to enhance children’s lived experience.
Children of the Pacific: Giving effect to Article 3 UNCRC in small island states
Authors: Farran Sue
Published: June 2012

While children are universal, recognising and giving practical effect to their rights is not. Compliance with international obligations under the UNCRC imposes considerable demands on small developing nations, such as those found in the south Pacific region, where children make up over a third of the total population of many island states. Focussing on criminal and family law this paper considers how the local courts are engaging with the Convention and the challenges which arise in plural legal systems characterised by lack of legal reform and lack of resources, in which the contemporary experience of traditional social ordering may value children but not necessarily see them as right holders.
Leonardo and the “Chemical Arts”
Authors: Bernardoni Andrea
Published: June 2012

Our traditional vision of Leonardo da Vinci is based principally on his studies of mechanics, hydraulics, optics, geology, meteorology, and anatomy. However, a perusal of his manuscripts reveals his lifelong interest in chemistry and metallurgy, fields to which he contributed both as an innovator and as a reliable chronicler of the technological inventions of others. He conducted studies on various types of materials (including glass, paper, and le terre di fusione, the clay used in the lost wax process) and sought to develop more efficient alembics and metallurgical furnaces, as well as ingenious devices to study the elements and the dynamics of the transformation of matter. Leonardo’s atelier therefore could be viewed as a veritable ‘technical laboratory’ in which he conducted experiments not only on the techniques and materials required for his art, but also to satisfy his thirst for knowledge by engaging in the heuristic study of natural and artificial phenomena.
“Hobbes Is of the Opposite Opinion” Kant and Hobbes on the Three Authorities in the State
Authors: Guyer Paul
Published: June 2012

Like Hobbes and unlike Locke, Kant denied the possibility of a right to rebellion. But unlike Hobbes, Kant did not argue for a unitary head of state in whom legislative, judicial, and executive powers are inseparable, and thus did not believe that the executive power in a state to whom must be conceded a monopoly of coercion also defines all rights in the state. Instead, Kant insisted upon the necessary division of authority in a state into a separate legislature, executive, and judiciary, and thus, while rejecting the idea that a people could ever rightfully overthrow their entire constitution or government, he could and did hold that a people represented by a parliament have genuine rights against the executive power within their state even though that executive power properly has a monopoly on the coercive enforcement of the parliament's laws.