bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐parallax‐barriers‐based autostereoscopic liquid‐crystal display without cross‐talk
Authors: Luo Jiang‐Yong , Wang Qiong‐Hua , Zhao Wu‐Xiang , Qi Lin , Shi Guo‐Kai
Published: September 2011

Abstract— An autostereoscopic liquid‐crystal display (LCD) consists of two parallax barriers and an LCD including a liquid‐crystal panel, and a backlight panel is proposed. Parallax barrier 1 is located between the backlight panel and the liquid‐crystal panel, and Parallax barrier 2 is located between the liquid‐crystal panel and viewers. The operation principle of the autostereoscopic display and the calculation equations for the parallax barriers are described in detail. The autostereoscopic LCD was developed and produces high‐quality stereoscopic images without cross‐talk at the optimal viewing distance and less cross‐talk than a conventional one based on one parallax barrier at other viewing distances.
Analyse du concept qualité de vie dans le contexte des personnes âgées avec incapacités physiques
Authors: Levasseur Mélanie , Tribble Denise St-Cyr , Desrosiers Johanne
Published: September 2011

Description générale. L'objectif ultime de l'ergothérapeute est d'améliorer ou de maintenir la qualité de vie de sa clientèle. But. Il est cependant difficile de trouver une définition opérationnelle de ce concept. Cet article présente les résultats d'une analyse du concept qualité de vie dans le contexte des personnes âgées avec incapacités physiques. Résultats. La qualité de vie se définit par une évaluation subjective des circonstances de vie d'un individu, compte tenu de ses valeurs. Les résultats indiquent l'importance du bien-être physique, psychique, social et spirituel, de la satisfaction envers sa vie et de la réalisation d'occupations valorisantes. Un état fonctionnel satisfaisant, manifesté par la présence de comportements adaptés, et un sentiment de contrôle sur sa vie sont aussijugés utiles. Conséquences pour la pratique. Cette définition suggère aux ergothérapeutes d'avoir une vision plus élargie de leurs objectifs d'intervention (au-delà de la réalisation des activités de la vie quotidienne et domestiques) et offre certaines pistes d'intervention pour l'amélioration de la qualité de vie.
Evaluation of a Teleconference-Delivered Energy Conservation Education Program for People with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Finlayson Marcia , Holberg Christa
Published: September 2011

Background. Little is known about the strengths and limitations of teleconference delivery for energy conservation education for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study evaluated such a program to address this gap. Methods. Data were collected from 28 individuals with MS who participated in a teleconference-delivered energy conservation education program. Participants shared their perspectives on the course and its delivery format. Session notes from the three occupational therapists who delivered the program were also reviewed. Findings. Participants found the format to be convenient and relaxed, and the content to be relevant to their everyday lives. Technical issues, lack of time for sharing, and lack of time to practice strategies were limitations. Although the format challenged the occupational therapists' group leadership skills, they were surprised at the extent of group cohesion that developed using this format. Implications. Feedback from both people with MS and occupational therapists suggests that providing energy conservation education by teleconference is acceptable, practical, and worth pursuing in the future.
Power and Client-Centred Practice: An Insider Exploration of Occupational Therapists' Experiences
Authors: Mortenson W. Bennett , Dyck Isabel
Published: September 2011

Background. Although problems with power sharing are frequently described in discussions about client-centred practice, little research has explored occupational therapists' experiences with this model of service delivery. To critically examine this aspect of occupational therapy, an insider study was conducted. Purpose. The objectives of the study were to explore therapists' experiences with client-centred practice and to reveal how power works within this practice and in the health service environment. Method. Semi-structured interviews with 9 therapists were conducted, and a thematic analysis of these transcripts was completed. A variety of institutional documents were reviewed and analysed. Results. Three main themes were identified: the different interpretations of occupational therapy discourse, the power of context, and the continuum of client-therapist interactions. Clinical Implications. It is important to consider the various competing discourses and institutional practices that frame the therapeutic relationship when evaluating methods to improve client-centred practice.
Le Profil du Loisir, un instrument prometteur en ergothérapie
Authors: Dutil Élisabeth , Bier Nathalie , Gaudreault Céline
Published: September 2011

Description : Les bienfaits du loisir sont bien connus, mais peu d'instruments ont été conçus dans l'optique de mesurer l'engagement d'une personne dans ses loisirs et d'évaluer les facteurs personnels ou environnementaux qui diminuent sa capacité de s'y engager. But : Cet article à pour but de présenter les étapes du développement du Profil du Loisir entre 1990 et 2002. Méthodologie : La planification, la construction et la validation de l'outil ont été faites selon les étapes de Benson et Clark (1982). Les premières versions ont été expérimentées par des ergothérapeutes auprès de personnes ayant eu un traumatisme cranio-cérébral. Résultats : La validation a permis l'élaboration de la version finale (3.0). L'outil présente une fidélité inter-juges allant de acceptable (kappa 0,21–0,4) à très bien (0,61–0,80) et test-retest de acceptable à modérée (0,41–0,60). Conséquences pour la pratique : Le Profil du Loisir s'avère prometteur pour amener les ergothérapeutes à considérer le loisir dans leur pratique et à l'évaluer de façon systématique.
Cognitive Assessments for Older Adults: Which Ones are Used by Canadian Therapists and Why
Authors: Douglas Alison , Liu Lili , Warren Sharon , Hopper Tammy
Published: September 2011

Background. Occupational therapists routinely evaluate cognition in older adults, yet little is known about which assessments they use and for what purposes. Purpose. To examine the standardised and non-standardised assessments used by occupational therapists to evaluate cognition. Method. Arandom sample of 1042 Canadian occupational therapists completed the questionnaire by e-mail, post, or Internet website (n=247, response rate: 24.5%). Results. Respondents reported using 75 standardised and non-standardised measures. The assessments were grouped according to theoretical approach: bottom-up (assessment of cognitive components), top-down (assessment of function) and combined (either of above, plus interview). Theoretical approaches were used similarly across regions, despite differences in reporting of particular assessments. Therapists used more bottom-up assessments that were standardised, identified deficits, and easy to administer. They used more top-down assessments that were non-standardised, predicted function, and fit with their theoretical approach. Conclusion. It is recommended that standardised top-down assessments be developed to support evidence-based occupational therapy.
The Impossible Dream? Codes of Practice and the International Migration of Skilled Health Workers
Authors: Connell John , Buchan James
Published: September 2011

The international migration of skilled health workers has increased significantly from the 1990s. Many source countries have expressed concern over losses of health workers, resulting in regional Codes of Practice and bilateral Memoranda of Understanding being established since 1999 to achieve more effective, equitable and ethical international migration. The finalisation of a Global Code in 2010 drew attention to continued migration concerns. Codes have three key objectives — protecting rights of migrant workers, adequate workplace support for migrant workers and ensuring that migration flows do not disrupt health services in source countries. There is no agreed definition of ethical international recruitment, and no consensus on the significance and location of harmful recruitment practices. Most codes have covered relatively few regions and exhibit a high degree of generality. Several source countries encourage rather than discourage migration. Migration is a right and occurs in contexts that do not necessarily involve health issues. There are no incentives for recipient countries and agencies to be involved in ethical international recruitment. All codes are voluntary which has restricted their impact. Substantial migration and recruitment have occurred outside their scope, and codes have diverted skilled health workers beyond regulation. The private sector is effectively excluded from codes. Bilateral agreements and memoranda have a greater chance of success, enabling managed migration and return migration, but are more geographically limiting. The most effective constraints to the unregulated flow of skilled health workers are the production of adequate numbers in present recipient countries and provision of improved employment conditions in source countries.
Diagnosing Possible Hypertension When Blood Pressure Is High in The Emergency Department
Authors: Niska Richard W.
Published: September 2011

Purpose: Emergency physicians refer to primary care for follow‐up of conditions identified in the emergency department (ED). Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Its detection is key in decreasing morbidity and mortality. We examined factors associated with diagnosing possible hypertension in patients with high blood pressure (BP), as a first step in outpatient referral. Methods: Data from a national ED survey were examined for visits by adults with high BP. The dependent variable was a hypertension diagnosis. Independent variables were BP elevation stage, age, sex, ethnicity, payment, year, pain severity, and urban versus rural location. Bivariate associations were tested between all independent variables and a diagnosis of possible hypertension. Logistic regression models determined significant predictors of a hypertension diagnosis. Results: Only 5.5 percent of ED patients with high BP were diagnosed with hypertension. Predictors included stage 2 BP elevation, age over 30 years old, females, minority ethnic groups, and mild or no pain. Conclusions: This analysis suggests associated factors influencing the diagnosis of hypertension in the ED to facilitate referral, which can have significant benefits in reducing complications of untreated hypertension.
Influenza A/H1N1 Vaccine in Patients Treated by Kidney Transplant or Dialysis
Authors: Broeders Nilufer E. , Hombrouck Anneleen , Lemy Anne , Wissing Karl Martin , Racapé Judith , Gastaldello Karine , Massart Annick , Van Gucht Steven , Weichselbaum Laura , De Mul Aurelie , Brochier Bernard , Thomas Isabelle , Abramowicz Daniel
Published: September 2011

Background and objectives

In 2009, the pandemic influenza A/H1N1 accounted for worldwide recommendations about vaccination. There are few data concerning the immunogenicity or the security of the adjuvanted-A/H1N1 vaccine in transplanted and hemodialyzed patients.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Sera from 21 controls, 53 hemodialyzed (HD) patients, and 111 renal transplant recipients (RT) were sampled before (T0) and 1 month after (T1) a single dose of Pandemrix® vaccine (GSK Biologicals, AS03-adjuvanted). We measured the neutralizing antibodies against A/H1N1/2009, the geometric mean (GM) titers, the GM titer ratios (T1/T0) with 95% confidence intervals, and the seroconversion rate (responders: ≥4-fold increase in titer). The HLA and MICA immunization was determined by Luminex technology.

Results

The GM titer ratio was 38 (19 to 78), 9 (5 to 16), and 5 (3 to 6) for controls, HD patients, and RT patients, respectively (P < 0.001). The proportion of responders was 90%, 57%, and 44%, respectively (P < 0.001). In RT patients, the prevalence of histocompatibility leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I, histocompatibility leukocyte antigen class II, and MHC class I-related chain A immunization, was, respectively, 15%, 14%, and 14% before and 14%, 14%, and 11% after vaccination (P = 1, 1, and 0.39).

Conclusions

The influenza A/H1N1-adjuvanted vaccine is of limited efficacy but is safe in renal disease populations. The humoral response is lower in transplanted versus hemodialyzed patients. Further studies are needed to improve the efficacy of vaccination in those populations.
Fracture Risk and Prevention: A Multidimensional Approach
Authors: Perry Susan B. , Downey Patricia A.
Published: September 2011

Although physical therapists commonly manage neuromusculoskeletal disorders and injuries, their scope of practice also includes prevention and wellness. In particular, this perspective article proposes that physical therapists are well positioned to address the client's skeletal health by incorporating fracture prevention into clinical practice with all adults. Fracture prevention consists primarily of maximizing bone strength and preventing falls. Both of these initiatives require an evidence-based, multidimensional approach that customizes interventions based on an individual's medical history, risk factors, and personal goals. The purposes of this perspective article are: (1) to review the role of exercise and nutrition in bone health and disease; (2) to introduce the use of the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) into physical therapist practice; (3) to review the causes and prevention of falls; and (4) to propose a role for the physical therapist in promotion of bone health for all adult clients, ideally to help prevent fractures and their potentially devastating sequelae.
Primary hypertension and neurovascular compression: a meta-analysis of magnetic resonance imaging studies
Authors: Boogaarts Hieronymus D. , Menovsky Tomas , de Vries Joost , Verbeek André L. M. , Lenders Jacques W. , Grotenhuis J. André
Published: September 2011

Object

Several studies have suggested that neurovascular compression (NVC) of the brainstem might be a cause of hypertension. Because this compression syndrome might be demonstrated by MR imaging studies, several authors have tried to assess its prevalence in small series of patients with hypertension. This article presents a meta-analysis of these studies.

Methods

The studies reviewed by the authors were based on MR imaging and included the presence of left-sided NVC of the left rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata (RVLM) and/or the cranial nerves IX and X root entry zone in patients with apparent primary hypertension compared with normotensive patients. Several studies also included patients with secondary hypertension as an additional control group, which is analyzed separately.

Results

Meta-analysis included data from 14 studies (597 patients with primary hypertension and 609 controls). The effect size was OR 2.68 (95% CI 1.51–4.75, p = 0.001) (random effect), which is consistent with the hypothesis that NVC of the left RVLM is more frequent in patients with apparent primary hypertension compared with normotensive individuals. Stratification for the study design revealed an effect size for prospective studies of OR 1.97 (95% CI 0.74–5.30, p = 0.178) and for retrospective studies of OR 3.36 (95% CI 1.66–6.79, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

This meta-analysis indicates a statistically significant effect size for left-sided NVC in apparent primary hypertension. However, this effect is absent if subanalysis is confined to prospective studies.
Improvement in the standard treatment for experimental glioma by fusing antibody Fc domain to endostatin
Authors: Grossman Rachel , Tyler Betty , Hwang Lee , Zadnik Patti , Lal Bachchu , Javaherian Kashi , Brem Henry
Published: September 2011

Object

Brain tumors pose many unique challenges to treatment. The authors hypothesized that Fc-endostatin may be beneficial. It is a newly synthesized recombinant human endostatin conjugated to the Fc domain of IgG with a long half-life (weeks) and unknown toxicity. The authors examined the efficacy of Fc-endostatin using various delivery methods.

Methods

Efficacy was assessed using the intracranial 9L gliosarcoma rat model treated with Fc-endostatin for use in rodents (mFc-endostatin), which was administered either systemically or locally via different delivery methods. Oral temozolomide (TMZ) was administered in combination with mFc-endostatin to determine if there was a beneficial synergistic effect.

Results

Intracranial delivery of mFc-endostatin via a polymer or convection-enhanced delivery 5 days after tumor implantation increased median survival, compared with the control group (p = 0.0048 and 0.003, respectively). Animals treated weekly with subcutaneous mFc-endostatin (started 5 days post–tumor implantation) also had statistically improved survival as compared with controls (p = 0.0008). However, there was no statistical difference in survival between the local and systemic delivery groups. Control animals had a median survival of 13 days. Animals treated either with subcutaneous mFc-endostatin weekly or with polymer had a median survival of 18 and 15 days, respectively, and those treated with oral TMZ for 5 days (Days 5–9) had a median survival of 21 days. Survival was further increased with a combination of oral TMZ and mFc-endostatin polymer, with a median survival of 28 days (p = 0.029, compared with TMZ alone). Subcutaneous mFc-endostatin administered every week starting 18 days before tumor implantation significantly increased median survival when compared with controls (p = 0.0007), with 12.5% of the animals ultimately becoming long-term survivors (that is, survival longer than 120 days). The addition of TMZ to either weekly or daily subcutaneous mFc-endostatin and its administration 18 days before tumor implantation significantly increased survival (p = 0.017 and 0.0001, respectively, compared with TMZ alone). Note that 12.5% of the animals treated with weekly subcutaneous mFc-endostatin and TMZ were long-term survivors.

Conclusions

Systemically or directly (local) delivered mFc-endostatin prolonged the survival of rats implanted with intracranial 9L gliosarcoma. This benefit was further enhanced when mFc-endostatin was combined with the oral chemotherapeutic agent TMZ.
Distraction of facets with intraarticular spacers as treatment for lumbar canal stenosis: report on a preliminary experience with 21 cases
Authors: Goel Atul , Shah Abhidha , Jadhav Madan , Nama Santhosh
Published: September 2011

Object

The authors report their experience in treating 21 patients by using a novel form of treatment of lumbar degenerative disease that leads to canal stenosis. The surgery involved distraction of the facets using specially designed Goel intraarticular spacers and was aimed at arthrodesis of the spinal segment in a distracted position. The operation is based on the premise that subtle and longstanding facet instability, joint space reduction, and subsequent facet override had a profound and primary influence in the pathogenesis of degenerative lumbar canal stenosis. The surgical technique and the rationale for treatment are discussed.

Methods

Between April 2006 and January 2011, 21 cases of lumbar degenerative disease resulting in characteristic lumbar canal stenosis were treated in the authors' department with the proposed technique. The patients were prospectively analyzed. There were 15 men and 6 women who ranged in age from 48 to 71 years (mean 58 years). Nine patients underwent 1-level and 12 patients underwent 2-level treatment. Surgery involved wide opening of the articular joint, denuding of the articular capsule/endplate cartilage, distraction of the facets, and forced impaction of Goel intraarticular spacers. Bone graft pieces obtained by sectioning the spinous processes were placed within and over the joint and in the midline over the adequately prepared host area of laminae. The Oswestry Disability Index and visual analog scale were used to clinically assess the patients before and after surgery and at follow-up. The alterations in the physical architecture of spinal canal and intervertebral foramen dimensions were evaluated before and after placement of the intrafacet implant and after at least 6 months of follow-up.

Results

All patients had varying degrees of relief from symptoms of local back pain and radiculopathy. Impaction of spacers within the facet joints resulted in an increase in the spinal canal and intervertebral root canal dimensions (mean 2.33 mm), reduction of buckling of the ligamentum flavum, and reduction of the extent of bulge of the disc into the spinal canal. The procedure resulted in firm stabilization and fixation of the spinal segment and provided a ground for arthrodesis. No patient worsened neurologically after treatment. During the follow-up period, all patients had evidence of segmental bone fusion. No patient underwent reexploration or further surgery of the lumbar spine.

Conclusions

Impaction of the spacers within the articular cavity after facet distraction resulted in reversal of several effects of spine degeneration that had caused spinal and root canal stenosis. The safe, firm, and secure stabilization at the fulcrum of lumbar spinal movements provided a ground for segmental spinal arthrodesis. The immediate postoperative and lasting recovery from symptoms suggests the validity of the procedure.
Spite and Reciprocity in Auctions
Authors: Nishimura Naoko , Cason Timothy N. , Saijo Tatsuyoshi , Ikeda Yoshikazu
Published: September 2011

The paper presents a complete information model of bidding in second price sealed-bid and ascending-bid (English) auctions, in which potential buyers know the unit valuation of other bidders and may spitefully prefer that their rivals earn a lower surplus. Bidders with spiteful preferences should overbid in equilibrium when they know their rival has a higher value than their own, and bidders with a higher value underbid to reciprocate the spiteful overbidding of the lower value bidders. The model also predicts different bidding behavior in second price as compared to ascending-bid auctions. The paper also presents experimental evidence broadly consistent with the model. In the complete information environment, lower value bidders overbid more than higher value bidders, and they overbid more frequently in the second price auction than in the ascending price auction. Overall, the lower value bidder submits bids that exceed value about half the time. These patterns are not found in the incomplete information environment, consistent with the model.
Antioxidant and Antiradical Activities of Manihot esculenta Crantz (Euphorbiaceae) Leaves and Other Selected Tropical Green Vegetables Investigated on Lipoperoxidation and Phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) Activated Monocytes
Authors: Tsumbu Cesar N. , Deby-Dupont Ginette , Tits Monique , Angenot Luc , Franck Thierry , Serteyn Didier , Mouithys-Mickalad Ange
Published: September 2011

Abelmoschus esculentus (Malvaceae), Hibiscus acetosella (Malvaceae), Manihot esculenta Crantz (Euphorbiaceae) and Pteridium aquilinum (Dennstaedtiaceae) leaves are currently consumed as vegetables by migrants from sub-Saharan Africa living in Western Europe and by the people in the origin countries, where these plants are also used in the folk medicine. Manihot leaves are also eaten in Latin America and some Asian countries. This work investigated the capacity of aqueous extracts prepared from those vegetables to inhibit the peroxidation of a linoleic acid emulsion. Short chain, volatile C-compounds as markers of advanced lipid peroxidation were measured by gas chromatography by following the ethylene production. The generation of lipid hydroperoxides, was monitored by spectroscopy using N-N′-dimethyl-p-phenylene-diamine (DMPD). The formation of intermediate peroxyl, and other free radicals, at the initiation of the lipid peroxidation was investigated by electron spin resonance, using α-(4-pyridyl-1-oxide)-N-tert-butylnitrone as spin trap agent. The ability of the extracts to decrease the cellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in “inflammation like” conditions was studied by fluorescence technique using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescine-diacetate as fluorogenic probe, in a cell model of human monocytes (HL-60 cells) activated with phorbol ester. Overall the extracts displayed efficient concentration-dependent inhibitory effects. Their total polyphenol and flavonoid content was determined by classic colorimetric methods. An HPLC-UV/DAD analysis has clearly identified the presence of some polyphenolic compounds, which explains at least partially the inhibitions observed in our models. The role of these plants in the folk medicine by sub-Saharan peoples as well as in the prevention of oxidative stress and ROS related diseases requires further consideration.
Issues in Establishing Climate Sensitivity in Recent Studies
Authors: Trenberth Kevin E. , Fasullo John T. , Abraham John P.
Published: September 2011

Numerous attempts have been made to constrain climate sensitivity with observations [1-10] (with [6] as LC09, [8] as SB11). While all of these attempts contain various caveats and sources of uncertainty, some efforts have been shown to contain major errors and are demonstrably incorrect. For example, multiple studies [11-13] separately addressed weaknesses in LC09 [6]. The work of Trenberth et al. [13], for instance, demonstrated a basic lack of robustness in the LC09 method that fundamentally undermined their results. Minor changes in that study’s subjective assumptions yielded major changes in its main conclusions. Moreover, Trenberth et al. [13] criticized the interpretation of El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) as an analogue for exploring the forced response of the climate system. In addition, as many cloud variations on monthly time scales result from internal atmospheric variability, such as the Madden-Julian Oscillation, cloud variability is not a deterministic response to surface temperatures. Nevertheless, many of the problems in LC09 [6] have been perpetuated, and Dessler [10] has pointed out similar issues with two more recent such attempts [7,8]. Here we briefly summarize more generally some of the pitfalls and issues involved in developing observational constraints on climate feedbacks. [...]
Evaluation of 2 Screening Strategies for Early Identification of Patients with Axial Spondyloarthritis in Primary Care
Authors: PODDUBNYY DENIS , VAHLDIEK JANIS , SPILLER INGE , BUSS BEATE , LISTING JOACHIM , RUDWALEIT MARTIN , SIEPER JOACHIM
Published: September 2011

Objective.

To evaluate 2 referral strategies for axial spondyloarthritis (SpA) in patients with chronic low back pain at the primary care level.

Methods.

Referral physicians (n = 259) were randomly assigned to either Strategy 1 or Strategy 2 in order to refer patients with chronic back pain (duration > 3 months), age at onset of back pain < 45 years, and no diagnosis of axial SpA, to a cooperating rheumatologist (n = 43). According to Strategy 1, suitable patients were referred if at least 1 of the following screening criteria was present: inflammatory back pain, HLA-B27, or sacroiliitis detected by imaging. According to Strategy 2, patients were referred if 2 out of 5 criteria were positive: the same 3 criteria from Strategy 1 and additionally a positive family history of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) or a good treatment response to nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. The final diagnosis of the rheumatologist was used as the “gold standard.”

Results.

In total, 560 consecutively referred patients were included in the analysis. Among 318 patients referred by Strategy 1, 41.8% (95% CI 36.5%–47.3%) were diagnosed with definite axial SpA. Among 242 patients referred by the second strategy, definite axial SpA was diagnosed in 36.8% (95% CI 31.0%–43.0%) of the cases.

Conclusion.

Both referral strategies demonstrated comparable performance in identification of patients with axial SpA. Strategy 1 might be preferred as an easy and reliable screening method for axial SpA at the primary care level.
Refractive and Visual Outcomes After Intacs vs Ferrara Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segment Implantation for Keratoconus: A Comparative Study
Authors: Kaya Vedat , Utine Canan Asli , Karakus Sezen Harmanci , Kavadarli Isilay , Yilmaz Ömer Faruk
Published: September 2011

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the refractive, topographic, optical, visual acuity, and quality outcomes of two types of intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRS) in the treatment of keratoconus.

METHODS:

In this retrospective study, 16 eyes that had been implanted with Intacs ICRS (Addition Technology Inc) (Intacs group) and 17 eyes implanted with Ferrara ICRS (Ferrara Ophthalmics Ltda) (Ferrara group) were evaluated. Pre- and postoperative examinations included uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities (UDVA and CDVA, respectively), manifest refraction, slit-lamp examination, topography, and ocular wavefront analysis. Contrast sensitivity measurements under photopic, scotopic, and scotopic with glare conditions were performed 1 year postoperatively.

RESULTS:

One year postoperatively, a significant decrease was noted in spherical equivalent refractive error of 3.76±0.39 diopters (D) and 3.42±0.88 D and keratometry of 3.43±0.24 D and 3.28±0.78 D in the Intacs and Ferrara groups, respectively; and increase in mean UDVA and CDVA in Snellen lines of 0.18±0.04 and 0.21±0.05, respectively, in the Intacs group and 0.21±0.09 and 0.26±0.08, respectively, in the Ferrara group (
P
<.01 for all). The postoperative increase in UDVA and CDVA and decrease in keratometry readings were not significantly different between groups (
P
>.05 for all). Mean higher order aberrations decreased in the Intacs group and increased in the Ferrara group (
P
>.05 for both). Postoperatively, a significant decrease was noted in scotopic contrast sensitivity when glare was introduced in the Ferrara group, which was positively correlated with pupil diameter (r(15)=0.50,
P
=.04).

CONCLUSIONS:

Both ICRS types provided comparable refractive, topographic, and optical quality outcomes. Eyes with Ferrara ICRS experienced greater decrease in scotopic contrast sensitivity under glare, which was significantly correlated with pupil diameter.
Fifty Consecutive Cases of Transconjunctival Sutureless 23-Gauge Vitrectomy Combined With Phacoemulsification and IOL Implantation
Authors: Hütz Werner W. , Hoffmann Peter , Hengerer Fritz
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate safety and effectiveness of combined 23-gauge vitrectomy and phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation for eyes with vitreoretinal conditions and progressed cataract.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

The authors retrospectively reviewed 50 previously nonvitrectomized eyes of 50 patients with various vitreoretinal conditions and cataract affecting visual acuity. They underwent combined surgery with sutureless transconjunctival 23-gauge vitrectomy and phacoemulsification with IOL implantation. Surgical indications were a progressed cataract with various retinal conditions.

RESULTS:

Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 0.23 (range: 0.125 to 0.32; standard deviation [SD]: 0.08) to 0.48 (range: 0.32 to 0.8; SD: 0.16). Spherical equivalent changed from 0.50 to 0.08 diopters. Cataract surgery mean time was 10.46 minutes, vitrectomy mean opening time was 1.1 minutes, and mean vitrectomy procedure time varied widely depending on the type of retinal surgery (20.06 minutes; range: 5 to 55; SD: 11.10). At 1 week, relative hypotony was found in 12% and hypotony was found in 4%. There was no hypotony 3 months after surgery.

CONCLUSION:

Transconjunctival 23-gauge vitrectomy with phacoemulsification with IOL implantation appears effective with an acceptable safety profile for patients with cataract with simultaneous retinal diseases.
Direct Detection of Thrombin Binding to 8-Bromodeoxyguanosine-Modified Aptamer: Effects of Modification on Affinity and Kinetics
Authors: Goji Shou , Matsui Jun
Published: September 2011

The affinity of an 8-bromodeoxyguanosine- (8-BrdG-) substituted thrombin-binding aptamer (TBA-Br), which has the 1st and 10th guanosine residues replaced with 8-BrdG, was estimated using reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS). When comparing TBA-Br with unmodified TBA (TBA-H), it was demonstrated that the modification effectively improved the affinity of TBA; dissociation constants (KD) of TBA-H and TBA-Br were 45.4 nM and 1.99 nM, respectively. These values, which were obtained by direct observation of thrombin binding using RIfS, have the same order of magnitude as those obtained in our previous study utilizing conformational changes in TBA to detect thrombin binding, thus confirming the validity of the obtainedKDvalues. RIfS measurements also revealed that the 8-BrdG modification resulted in a lower dissociation rate constant (kd), which suggests that the enhancement of affinity can be attributed to the stabilization of the G-quadruplex structure on introduction of 8-BrdG.
Enzymatic Synthesis of the Flavone Glucosides, Prunin and
Isoquercetin, and the Aglycones, Naringenin and Quercetin, with
Selective α-L-Rhamnosidase and β-D-Glucosidase Activities of Naringinase
Authors: Vila-Real Hélder , Alfaia António J. , Bronze M. Rosário , Calado António R. T. , Ribeiro Maria H. L.
Published: September 2011

The production of flavonoid glycosides by removing rhamnose from
rutinosides can be accomplished through enzymatic catalysis.
Naringinase is an enzyme complex, expressing both α-L-rhamnosidase and β-D-glucosidase activities, with application in glycosides
hydrolysis. To produce monoglycosylated flavonoids with naringinase,
the expression of β-D-glucosidase activity is not desirable leading to the
need of expensive methods for α-L-rhamnosidase purification. Therefore, the main purpose
of this study was the inactivation of β-D-glucosidase activity expressed by naringinase keeping α-L-rhamnosidase with a high retention activity. Response
surface methodology (RSM) was used to evaluate the effects of
temperature and pH on β-D-glucosidase inactivation. A selective inactivation of β-D-glucosidase activity of naringinase was achieved at 81.5∘C and pH 3.9, keeping a very high residual activity of α-L-rhamnosidase (78%). This was a crucial achievement
towards an easy and cheap production method of very expensive
flavonoids, like prunin and isoquercetin starting from naringin and
rutin, respectively.
Kinetic Characterisation of Phosphofructokinase Purified fromSetaria cervi: A Bovine Filarial Parasite
Authors: Sharma Bechan
Published: September 2011

Phosphofructokinase (PFK), a regulatory enzyme in glycolytic pathway, has been purified to electrophoretic homogeneity from adult femaleSetaria cerviand partially characterized. For this enzyme, the Lineweaver-Burk's double reciprocal plots of initial rates and D-fructose-6-phosphate (F-6-P) or Mg-ATP concentrations for varying values of cosubstrate concentration gave intersecting lines indicating thatKmvalues for F-6-P (1.05 mM) and ATP (3 μM) were independent of each other.S. cerviPFK, when assayed at inhibitory concentration of ATP (>0.1 mM), exhibited sigmoidal behavior towards binding with F-6-P with a Hill coefficient (n) value equal to 1.8 and 1.7 at 1.0 and 0.33 mM ATP, respectively. D-fructose-1,6-diphosphate (FDP) competitively inhibited the filarial enzyme:Kiand Hill coefficient values being 0.18 μM and 2.0, respectively. Phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) also inhibited the enzyme competitively with theKivalue equal to 0.8 mM. The Hill coefficient values (>1.5) for F-6-P (at inhibitory concentration of ATP) and FDP suggested its positive cooperative kinetics towards F-6-P and FDP, showing presence of more than one binding sites for these molecules in enzyme protein and allosteric nature of the filarial enzyme. The product inhibition studies gave us the only compatible mechanism of random addition process with a probable orientation of substrates and products on the enzyme surface.
Right coideal subalgebras of $U_q^+(\frak{so}_{2n+1})$
Authors: Kharchenko V. K.
Published: September 2011

We give a complete classification of right coideal subalgebras that contain all grouplike elements for the quantum group

U_q^+(\frak{so}_{2n+1}),

provided that

q

is not a root of 1. If

q

has a finite multiplicative order

t>4,

this classification remains valid for homogeneous right coideal subalgebras of the small Lusztig quantum group

u_q^+(\frak{ so}_{2n+1}).

Consequently, we determine that the total number of right coideal subalgebras that contain the coradical equals

(2n)!!,

the order of the Weyl group defined by the root system of type

B_n.
Early Intervention for Autism With a Parent-Delivered Qigong Massage Program: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Silva Louisa M. T. , Schalock Mark , Gabrielsen Kristen
Published: September 2011

A recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a dual parent and trainer-delivered qigong massage intervention for young children with autism resulted in improvement of measures of autism as well as improvement of abnormal sensory responses and self-regulation. The RCT evaluated the effects of the parent-delivered component of the intervention. Forty-seven children were randomly assigned to treatment and wait-list control groups. Treatment group children received the parent-delivered program for 4 mo. Trained therapists provided parent training and support. Improvement was evaluated in two settings—preschool and home—by teachers (blind to group) and parents. Results showed that the parent-delivered program was effective in improving measures of autism (medium effect size) and sensory and self-regulatory responses (large effect size). Teacher data on measures of autism were confirmed by parent data. Results indicate that the parent-delivered component of the program provided effective early intervention for autism that was suitable for delivery at home.
Using Occupations to Improve Quality of Life, Health and Wellness, and Client and Caregiver Satisfaction for People With Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
Authors: Letts Lori , Edwards Mary , Berenyi Julie , Moros Kathy , O’Neill Colleen , O’Toole Colleen , McGrath Colleen
Published: September 2011

An evidence-based review was undertaken to answer the question, “What is the evidence for the effect of interventions designed to establish, modify, and maintain activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), leisure, and social participation on quality of life (QOL), health and wellness, and client and caregiver satisfaction for people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias?” A systematic search of electronic databases and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria guided the selection of 26 articles. Limited high-level evidence on ADL interventions was identified. IADL interventions for people living in the community showed promise. Tailored and activity-based leisure interventions were common and seemed to have positive impacts on caregiver satisfaction, and some interventions had positive results for client well-being and QOL. Social participation interventions focused on people with dementia still able to engage in verbal social interactions; these interventions had at least short-term positive effects.
The size-dependent charge fraction of sub-3-nm particles as a key diagnostic of competitive nucleation mechanisms under atmospheric conditions
Authors: Yu F. , Turco R. P.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. A clear physical understanding of atmospheric particle nucleation mechanisms is critical in assessing the influences of aerosols on climate and climate variability. Currently, several mechanisms have been proposed and are being employed to interpret field observations of nucleation events. Roughly speaking, the two most likely candidates are neutral cluster nucleation (NCN) and ion-mediated nucleation (IMN). Detailed nucleation event data has been obtained in boreal forests. In one set of analyses of these measurements, NCN was suggested as the dominant formation mode, while in another, it was IMN. Information on the electrical charge distribution carried by the nucleating clusters is one key for identifying the relative contributions of neutral and ion-mediated processes under various conditions. Fortunately, ground-breaking measurements of the charged states or fractions of ambient nanometer-sized particles soon after undergoing nucleation are now available to help resolve the main pathways. In the present study, the size-dependent "apparent" formation rates and fractions of charged and neutral particles in a boreal forest setting are simulated with a detailed kinetic model. We show that the predicted "apparent" formation rates of charged and neutral particles at 2 nm for eight representative case study days agree well with the corresponding values based on observations. In the simulations, the "apparent" contribution of ion-based nucleation increases by up to ~one order of magnitude as the size of "sampled" particles is decreased from 2 nm to ~1.5 nm. These results suggest that most of the neutral particles sampled in the field at sizes around 2 nm are in reality initially formed on ionic cores that are neutralized before the particles grow to this size. Thus, although the apparent rate of formation of neutral 2-nm particles might seem to be dominated by a neutral clustering process, in fact those particles may be largely the result of an ion-induced nucleation mechanism. This point is clarified when the formation rates of smaller particles (e.g., ~1.5 nm) are explicitly analyzed (noting that measurements at these smaller sizes are not yet available), indicating that IMN dominates NCN processes under typical circumstances in the boreal forest cases investigated.
The impact of China's vehicle emissions on regional air quality in 2000 and 2020: a scenario analysis
Authors: Saikawa E. , Kurokawa J. , Takigawa M. , Borken-Kleefeld J. , Mauzerall D. L. , Horowitz L. W. , Ohara T.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. The number of vehicles in China has been increasing rapidly. We evaluate the impact of current and possible future vehicle emissions from China on Asian air quality. We modify the Regional Emission Inventory in Asia (REAS) for China's road transport sector in 2000 using updated Chinese data for the number of vehicles, annual mileage, and emission factors. We develop two scenarios for 2020: a scenario where emission factors remain the same as they were in 2000 (No-Policy, NoPol), and a scenario where Euro 3 vehicle emission standards are applied to all vehicles (except motorcycles and rural vehicles). The Euro 3 scenario is an approximation of what may be the case in 2020 as, starting in 2008, all new vehicles in China (except motorcycles) were required to meet the Euro 3 emission standards. Using the Weather Research and Forecasting model coupled with Chemistry (WRF/Chem), we examine the regional air quality response to China's vehicle emissions in 2000 and in 2020 for the NoPol and Euro 3 scenarios. We evaluate the 2000 model results with observations in Japan, China, Korea, and Russia. Under NoPol in 2020, emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs), black carbon (BC), and organic carbon (OC) from China's vehicles more than double compared to the 2000 baseline. If all vehicles meet the Euro 3 regulations in 2020, however, these emissions are reduced by more than 50% relative to NoPol. The implementation of stringent vehicle emission standards leads to a large, simultaneous reduction of the surface ozone (O3) mixing ratios and particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. In the Euro 3 scenario, surface O3 is reduced by more than 10 ppbv and surface PM2.5 is reduced by more than 10 μg m−3 relative to NoPol in Northeast China in all seasons. In spring, surface O3 mixing ratios and PM2.5 concentrations in neighboring countries are also reduced by more than 3 ppbv and 1 μg m−3, respectively. We find that effective regulation of China's road transport sector will be of significant benefit for air quality both within China and across East Asia as well.
The Eyjafjöll explosive volcanic eruption from a microwave weather radar perspective
Authors: Marzano F. S. , Lamantea M. , Montopoli M. , Di Fabio S. , Picciotti E.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. The sub-glacial Eyjafjöll explosive volcanic eruptions of April and May 2010 are analyzed and quantitatively interpreted by using ground-based weather radar data and the Volcanic Ash Radar Retrieval (VARR) technique. The Eyjafjöll eruptions have been continuously monitored by the Keflavík C-band weather radar, located at a distance of about 155 km from the volcano vent. Considering that the Eyjafjöll volcano is approximately 20 km from the Atlantic Ocean and that the northerly winds stretched the plume toward the mainland Europe, weather radars are the only means to provide an estimate of the total ejected tephra. The VARR methodology is summarized and applied to available radar time series to estimate the plume maximum height, ash particle category, ash volume, ash fallout and ash concentration every 5 min near the vent. Estimates of the discharge rate of eruption, based on the retrieved ash plume top height, are provided together with an evaluation of the total erupted mass and volume. Deposited ash at ground is also retrieved from radar data by empirically reconstructing the vertical profile of radar reflectivity and estimating the near-surface ash fallout. Radar-based retrieval results cannot be compared with ground measurements, due to the lack of the latter, but further demonstrate the unique contribution of these remote sensing products to the understating and modelling of explosive volcanic ash eruptions.
Water uptake by biomass burning aerosol at sub- and supersaturated conditions: closure studies and implications for the role of organics
Authors: Dusek U. , Frank G. P. , Massling A. , Zeromskiene K. , Iinuma Y. , Schmid O. , Helas G. , Hennig T. , Wiedensohler A. , Andreae M. O.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. We investigate the CCN activity of freshly emitted biomass burning particles and their hygroscopic growth at a relative humidity (RH) of 85%. The particles were produced in the Mainz combustion laboratory by controlled burning of various wood types. The water uptake at sub- and supersaturations is parameterized by the hygroscopicity parameter, κ (c.f. Petters and Kreidenweis, 2007). For the wood burns, κ is low, generally around 0.06. The main emphasis of this study is a comparison of κ derived from measurements at sub- and supersaturated conditions (κG and κCCN), in order to see whether the water uptake at 85% RH can predict the CCN properties of the biomass burning particles. Differences in κGand κCCN can arise through solution non-idealities, the presence of slightly soluble or surface active compounds, or non-spherical particle shape. We find that κG and κCCN agree within experimental uncertainties (of around 30%) for particle sizes of 100 and 150 nm; only for 50 nm particles is κCCN larger than κG by a factor of 2. The magnitude of this difference and its dependence on particle size is consistent with the presence of surface active organic compounds. These compounds mainly facilitate the CCN activation of small particles, which form the most concentrated solution droplets at the point of activation. The 50 nm particles, however, are only activated at supersaturations higher than 1% and are therefore of minor importance as CCN in ambient clouds. By comparison with the actual chemical composition of the biomass burning particles, we estimate that the hygroscopicity of the water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) fraction can be represented by a κWSOC value of approximately 0.2. The effective hygroscopicity of a typical wood burning particle can therefore be represented by a linear mixture of an inorganic component with κ ≅ 0.6, a WSOC component with κ ≅ 0.2, and an insoluble component with κ = 0.