bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cattaneo-Mindlin problem for a rigid punch with tangential load applied above the interface line
Authors: Grimaldi G , Papangelo A , Ciavarella M
Published: January 2016

We study the contact between a rigid flat punch and an elastic half-space using Coulomb friction for a normal load followed by a tangential load applied at a certain height above the interface line. The study is inspired by recent experiments by the group of Jay Fineberg in Israel. Three regimes are found in the evolution of slip at the interface depending on a dimensionless parameter [Formula: see text] , the ratio between the halfwidth of the contact and the product of twice friction coefficient and height of the loading point. Normal pressure and shear tractions are plotted for each case. It is shown that the effect of height does not collapse the data, contrary to the experimental data of Fineberg’s setup. However, this is not surprising given the many deviations from the ideal configuration we have studied, namely the finite thickness of the bottom block, the presence of vertical surfaces on the upper block (both not permitting the assumption of halfspace elasticity) and finally local effects due to concentrated tangential load which give rise to local and not only global induced moment.
Rearticulating Audience Engagement
Authors: Moe Hallvard , Poell Thomas , van Dijck José
Published: January 2016

This introduction to the special issue on social media and television audience engagement sketches the key dimensions that affect how audiences are transformed through the development of social platforms. Building on the five contributions to the special issue, we identify three dimensions that deserve further attention: (1) the character of national media cultures, (2) whether social platforms are employed by public or commercial broadcasters, and (3) the specific techno-commercial strategies of television producers and social media companies. By exploring these three dimensions, the article presents a basic analytical model to systematically compare and contextualize empirical findings on the relationship between social media and audience engagement.
POMC expression of the urothelium of the urinary bladder of mice submitted to pelvic radiation
Authors: Ozbilgin M Kemal , Aktas Caner , Temel Merve , Önal Tuna , Türköz Uluer Elgin , Vatansever H Seda , Kurtman Cengiz
Published: January 2016

Objective:

Patients who have had pelvic radiotherapy as part of their cancer therapy may develop subsequent urinary bladder injury. The acute changes that the urothelium undergo after radiation are known, but the healing mechanism of the urothelium of the urinary bladder after pelvic radiotherapy is not clearly understood. Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) peptides, which have immunomodulatory effects, are produced locally in sites outside of the central nervous system. This study aims to determine the role of POMC expression in the urothelium during radiation injury.

Methods:

Twenty-four male Swiss Albino mice were divided into four groups. A single-fractioned 10 Gy of ionizing radiation was applied to the pelvic zone of all mice with Cobalt-60 radiotherapy. The first group 1, which consisted intact animal and not irradiated was the control group, and the second, third, and fourth groups were euthanized after 24 h (Group 2), 48 h (Group 3), and 7 days (Group 4) after irradiation. All bladders were prepared for histochemical analysis using hematoxylin eosin (H&E) and immunohistochemical analysis using anti-POMC antibody.

Results:

No morphological differences were seen in all the group samples stained with H&E. POMC expression of the urothelium of bladder tissue samples shows different staining levels. Group 1 (96.7 ± 7.68), Group 2 (88.3 ± 8.04), and Group 3 (85.10 ± 10.9) were very weakly stained, but the POMC immunoreactivity of Group 4 (113.0 ± 12.8) was observed to be strong.

Conclusion:

Expression of POMC from urothelium seems to prevent bladder damage from radiation supplying differentiation and restoration of the urothelium.
Increased DNA methylation of Dnmt3b targets impairs leukemogenesis
Authors: Schulze Isabell , Rohde Christian , Scheller-Wendorff Marina , Bäumer Nicole , Krause Annika , Herbst Friederike , Riemke Pia , Hebestreit Katja , Tschanter Petra , Lin Qiong , Linhart Heinz , Godley Lucy A. , Glimm Hanno , Dugas Martin , Wagner Wolfgang , Berdel Wolfgang E. , Rosenbauer Frank , Müller-Tidow Carsten
Published: January 2016

Key Points

Increased gene body methylation inhibits leukemia, and oncogenes require varying levels of DNA methylation for efficient leukemogenesis. Dnmt3b-induced DNA methylation in mice targets stem cell–associated genes with prognostic association in acute myeloid leukemia patients.
Efficient and automated large-scale detection of structural relationships in proteins with a flexible aligner
Authors: Gutiérrez Fernando I. , Rodriguez-Valenzuela Felipe , Ibarra Ignacio L. , Devos Damien P. , Melo Francisco
Published: January 2016

Background

The total number of known three-dimensional protein structures is rapidly increasing. Consequently, the need for fast structural search against complete databases without a significant loss of accuracy is increasingly demanding. Recently, TopSearch, an ultra-fast method for finding rigid structural relationships between a query structure and the complete Protein Data Bank (PDB), at the multi-chain level, has been released. However, comparable accurate flexible structural aligners to perform efficient whole database searches of multi-domain proteins are not yet available. The availability of such a tool is critical for a sustainable boosting of biological discovery.

Results

Here we report on the development of a new method for the fast and flexible comparison of protein structure chains. The method relies on the calculation of 2D matrices containing a description of the three-dimensional arrangement of secondary structure elements (angles and distances). The comparison involves the matching of an ensemble of substructures through a nested-two-steps dynamic programming algorithm. The unique features of this new approach are the integration and trade-off balancing of the following: 1) speed, 2) accuracy and 3) global and semiglobal flexible structure alignment by integration of local substructure matching. The comparison, and matching with competitive accuracy, of one medium sized (250-aa) query structure against the complete PDB database (216,322 protein chains) takes about 8 min using an average desktop computer. The method is at least 2–3 orders of magnitude faster than other tested tools with similar accuracy. We validate the performance of the method for fold and superfamily assignment in a large benchmark set of protein structures. We finally provide a series of examples to illustrate the usefulness of this method and its application in biological discovery.

Conclusions

The method is able to detect partial structure matching, rigid body shifts, conformational changes and tolerates substantial structural variation arising from insertions, deletions and sequence divergence, as well as structural convergence of unrelated proteins.
Influence of different electrode belt positions on electrical impedance tomography imaging of regional ventilation: a prospective observational study
Authors: Karsten Jan , Stueber Thomas , Voigt Nicolas , Teschner Eckhard , Heinze Hermann
Published: January 2016

Background

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a non-invasive bedside tool which allows an individualized ventilator strategy by monitoring tidal ventilation and lung aeration. EIT can be performed at different cranio-caudal thoracic levels, but data are missing about the optimal belt position. The main goal of this prospective observational study was to evaluate the impact of different electrode layers on tidal impedance variation in relation to global volume changes in order to propose a proper belt position for EIT measurements.

Methods

EIT measurements were performed in 15 mechanically ventilated intensive care patients with the electrode belt at different thoracic layers (L1-L7). All respiratory and hemodynamic parameters were recorded. Blood gas analyses were obtained once at the beginning of EIT examination. Off-line tidal impedance variation/tidal volume (TV/VT) ratio was calculated, and specific patterns of impedance distribution due to automatic and user-defined adjustment of the colour scale for EIT images were identified.

Results

TV/VT ratio is the highest at L1. It decreases in caudal direction. At L5, the decrease of TV/VT ratio is significant. We could identify patterns of diaphragmatic interference with ventilation-related impedance changes, which owing to the automatically adjusted colour scales are not obvious in the regularly displayed EIT images.

Conclusions

The clinical usability and plausibility of EIT measurements depend on proper belt position, proper impedance visualisation, correct analysis and data interpretation. When EIT is used to estimate global parameters like VT or changes in end-expiratory lung volume, the best electrode plane is between the 4th and 5th intercostal space. The specific colour coding occasionally suppresses user-relevant information, and manual rescaling of images is necessary to visualise this information.
The future of antiviral immunotoxins
Authors: Spiess Katja , Jakobsen Mette Høy , Kledal Thomas N , Rosenkilde Mette M
Published: January 2016

There is a constant need for new therapeutic interventions in a wide range of infectious diseases. Over the past few years, the immunotoxins have entered the stage as promising antiviral treatments. Immunotoxins have been extensively explored in cancer treatment and have achieved FDA approval in several cases. Indeed, the design of new anticancer immunotoxins is a rapidly developing field. However, at present, several immunotoxins have been developed targeting a variety of different viruses with high specificity and efficacy. Rather than blocking a viral or cellular pathway needed for virus replication and dissemination, immunotoxins exert their effect by killing and eradicating the pool of infected cells. By targeting a virus-encoded target molecule, it is possible to obtain superior selectivity and drastically limit the side effects, which is an immunotoxin-related challenge that has hindered the success of immunotoxins in cancer treatment. Therefore, it seems beneficial to use immunotoxins for the treatment of virus infections. One recent example showed that targeting of virus-encoded 7 transmembrane (7TM) receptors by immunotoxins could be a future strategy for designing ultraspecific antiviral treatment, ensuring efficient internalization and hence efficient eradication of the pool of infected cells, both in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we provide an overview of the mechanisms of action of immunotoxins and highlight the advantages of immunotoxins as future anti-viral therapies.
Antibody blockade of IL-17 family cytokines in immunity to acute murine oral mucosal candidiasis
Authors: Whibley Natasha , Tritto Elaine , Traggiai Elisabetta , Kolbinger Frank , Moulin Pierre , Brees Dominique , Coleman Bianca M , Mamo Anna J , Garg Abhishek V , Jaycox Jillian R , Siebenlist Ulrich , Kammüller Michael , Gaffen Sarah L
Published: January 2016

Antibodies targeting IL-17A or its receptor, IL-17RA, are approved to treat psoriasis and are being evaluated for other autoimmune conditions. Conversely, IL-17 signaling is critical for immunity to opportunistic mucosal infections caused by the commensal fungus Candida albicans, as mice and humans lacking the IL-17R experience chronic mucosal candidiasis. IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-17AF bind the IL-17RA-IL-17RC heterodimeric complex and deliver qualitatively similar signals through the adaptor Act1. Here, we used a mouse model of acute oropharyngeal candidiasis to assess the impact of blocking IL-17 family cytokines compared with specific IL-17 cytokine gene knockout mice. Anti-IL-17A antibodies, which neutralize IL-17A and IL-17AF, caused elevated oral fungal loads, whereas anti-IL-17AF and anti-IL-17F antibodies did not. Notably, there was a cooperative effect of blocking IL-17A, IL-17AF, and IL-17F together. Termination of anti-IL-17A treatment was associated with rapid C. albicans clearance. IL-17F-deficient mice were fully resistant to oropharyngeal candidiasis, consistent with antibody blockade. However, IL-17A-deficient mice had lower fungal burdens than anti-IL-17A-treated mice. Act1-deficient mice were much more susceptible to oropharyngeal candidiasis than anti-IL-17A antibody-treated mice, yet anti-IL-17A and anti-IL-17RA treatment caused equivalent susceptibilities. Based on microarray analyses of the oral mucosa during infection, only a limited number of genes were associated with oropharyngeal candidiasis susceptibility. In sum, we conclude that IL-17A is the main cytokine mediator of immunity in murine oropharyngeal candidiasis, but a cooperative relationship among IL-17A, IL-17AF, and IL-17F exists in vivo. Susceptibility displays the following hierarchy: IL-17RA- or Act1-deficiency > anti-IL-17A + anti-IL-17F antibodies > anti-IL-17A or anti-IL-17RA antibodies > IL-17A deficiency.
Editorial: Proton pathway paradox: Hv1 H+ channel sustains neutrophil Nox2 activity, yet suppresses HOCl formation
Authors: Clark Robert A
Published: January 2016

Discussion on the functional roles of Hv1 proton channels in activated neutrophils.
Ground-penetrating radar and surface nuclear magnetic resonance monitoring of an englacial water-filled cavity in the polythermal glacier of Tête Rousse
Authors: Garambois Stéphane , Legchenko Anatoly , Vincent Christian , Thibert Emmanuel
Published: January 2016

In polythermal glaciers, specific climatic, topographic, and exposure conditions may lead to the formation of englacial lakes that can produce catastrophic effects downstream in the event of abrupt natural drainage. We have determined how a combination of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and surface nuclear magnetic resonance (SNMR) surveys helped to locate and visualize the evolution of a water-filled cavity within the Tête Rousse glacier (French Alps). We have used GPR results to delineate the roof of the cavity and monitor the cavity deformation caused by artificial drainage. Because the glacier bed and cavity have complex 3D geometries, we needed dense acquisition lines and 3D GPR views to qualitatively identify out-of-plane reflections. This 3D approach made it possible to establish a precise map of the glacier bed topography, the accuracy of which was verified against borehole observations. Then, repetitive GPR measurements were used to obtain a quantitative estimate of the vertical deflection of the cavity’s roof and changes in crevasse geometry observed in response to the decrease in the water pressure when [Formula: see text] of water was drained by pumping. We have used 3D SNMR imaging to locate water accumulation zones within the glacier and to estimate the volume of accumulated water. The SNMR monitoring revealed that in two years, the cavity lost approximately 73% of its initial volume, with 65% lost after the first drainage. Knowledge of the water contained in the ice provided a better understanding of GPR images and thus a more reliable interpretation of GPR data. However, SNMR imaging had a much lower resolution in comparison with GPR, and consequently GPR allowed a more accurate study of the evolution of cavity geometry caused by consecutive drainage and refilling. This study demonstrated the value of combining GPR data with SNMR data for the study of polythermal glaciers.
Lowered Cisplatin Dose and No Bleomycin in the Treatment of Pediatric Germ Cell Tumors: Results of the GCT-99 Protocol From the Brazilian Germ Cell Pediatric Oncology Cooperative Group
Authors: Lopes Luiz Fernando , Macedo Carla Renata Pacheco Donato , Aguiar Simone dos Santos , Barreto Jose Henrique S. , Martins Gisele Eiras , Sonaglio Viviane , Milone Marcelo , Lima Eduardo Ribeiro , Almeida Maria Teresa de Assis , Lopes Paula Maria Azevedo Allemand , Watanabe Flora Mitie , D´Andrea Maria Lydia Mello , Pianovski Mara Albonei , Melaragno Renato , Vianna Sonia Maria Rossi , Moreira Mauber Eduardo Schultz , Bruniera Paula , Zanardo de Oliveira Cleyton
Published: January 2016

Purpose

We describe the results of a risk-adapted, response-based therapeutic approach from the Brazilian GCT-99 study on germ cell tumors.

Patients and Methods

From May 1999 to October 2009, 579 participants were enrolled in the Brazilian GCT-99 study. Treatment, defined as specific chemotherapy regimen and number of cycles, was allocated by means of risk-group assignment at diagnosis with consideration for stage and primary tumor site. Patients at low risk received no chemotherapy. Patients at intermediate risk (IR) with a good response (GR) received four cycles of platinum and etoposide (PE), for total doses of platinum 420 mg/m2 and etoposide 2,040 mg/m2. Patients at IR with a partial response (PR) received three cycles of PE plus three cycles of ifosfamide, vinblastine, and bleomycin. Patients at high risk (HR) with a GR received four cycles of PE and ifosfamide (PEI) at total doses of platinum 420 mg/m2, etoposide 1,200 mg/m2, and ifosfamide 30 g/m2. Patients at HR with a PR received six cycles of PEI.

Results

The risk-group distribution was 213 LR, 138 IR, and 129 HR for 480 evaluable patients. Overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) rates at 10 years were, respectively, 90% and 88.6% in the IR-GR group (n = 126) and 74.1% and 74.1% in the IR-PR group (n = 12). Ten-year rates for the HR-GR group (n = 86) were an OS of 66.8% and an EFS of 62.5%. The HR-PR group (n = 43) had an OS of 74.8% and an EFS of 73.4%. In univariable and multivariable analysis, increased serum lactate dehydrogenase level and histology for a metastatic immature teratoma were prognostic of a worsened outcome.

Conclusion

Reduction of therapy to two drugs did not compromise survival outcomes for patients in the IR-GR group, and escalation of therapy with PEI did not significantly improve OS and EFS in patients at HR.
Importance of Radiation Oncologist Experience Among Patients With Head-and-Neck Cancer Treated With Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy
Authors: Boero Isabel J. , Paravati Anthony J. , Xu Beibei , Cohen Ezra E.W. , Mell Loren K. , Le Quynh-Thu , Murphy James D.
Published: January 2016

Purpose

Over the past decade, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has replaced conventional radiation techniques in the management of head-and-neck cancers (HNCs). We conducted this population-based study to evaluate the influence of radiation oncologist experience on outcomes in patients with HNC treated with IMRT compared with patients with HNC treated with conventional radiation therapy.

Methods

We identified radiation providers from Medicare claims of 6,212 Medicare beneficiaries with HNC treated between 2000 and 2009. We analyzed the impact of provider volume on all-cause mortality, HNC mortality, and toxicity end points after treatment with either conventional radiation therapy or IMRT. All analyses were performed by using either multivariable Cox proportional hazards or Fine-Gray regression models controlling for potential confounding variables.

Results

Among patients treated with conventional radiation, we found no significant relationship between provider volume and patient survival or any toxicity end point. Among patients receiving IMRT, those treated by higher-volume radiation oncologists had improved survival compared with those treated by low-volume providers. The risk of all-cause mortality decreased by 21% for every additional five patients treated per provider per year (hazard ratio [HR], 0.79; 95% CI, 0.67 to 0.94). Patients treated with IMRT by higher-volume providers had decreased HNC-specific mortality (subdistribution HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.50 to 0.91) and decreased risk of aspiration pneumonia (subdistribution HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.52 to 0.99).

Conclusion

Patients receiving IMRT for HNC had improved outcomes when treated by higher-volume providers. These findings will better inform patients and providers when making decisions about treatment, and emphasize the critical importance of high-quality radiation therapy for optimal treatment of HNC.
Leptin-Induced CART (Cocaine- and Amphetamine-Regulated Transcript) Is a Novel Intraovarian Mediator of Obesity-Related Infertility in Females
Authors: Ma Xiaoting , Hayes Emily , Prizant Hen , Srivastava Rajesh K. , Hammes Stephen R. , Sen Aritro
Published: January 2016

Obesity is considered detrimental to women's reproductive health. Although most of the attention has been focused on the effects of obesity on hypothalamic function, studies suggest a multifactorial impact. In fact, obesity is associated with reduced fecundity even in women with regular cycles, indicating that there may be local ovarian effects modulating fertility. Here we describe a novel mechanism for leptin actions directly in the ovary that may account for some of the negative effects of obesity on ovarian function. We find that normal cycling, obese, hyperleptinemic mice fed with a high-fat diet are subfertile and ovulate fewer oocytes compared with animals fed with a normal diet. Importantly, we show that leptin induces expression of the neuropeptide cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) in the granulosa cells (GCs) of ovarian follicles both in vitro and in vivo. CART then negatively affects intracellular cAMP levels, MAPK signaling, and aromatase mRNA expression, which leads to lower estradiol synthesis in GCs and altered ovarian folliculogenesis. Finally, in human samples from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization, we show a significant positive correlation between patient body mass index, CART mRNA expression in GCs, and CART peptide levels in follicular fluid. These observations suggest that, under obese conditions, CART acts as a local mediator of leptin in the ovary to cause ovarian dysfunction and reduced fertility.
Introduction
Authors: Steingo Gavin , Moreno Jairo
Published: January 2016

Questions of value might seem beyond the pale in cases of sound and music. Both are objects of immense accumulation, appreciation, exploration, and investment—not just for the human species but also among other species, and indeed the world. Sound simply is, its existence is inexhaustible, and remarkable things happen in and through it—end of story. Why, then, the question of value? Divesting sound and music from naive notions of intrinsic value, the essays here examine heterogeneous modalities by which sound and music produce value in and as history, politics, and ontology. In turn, the very question of what sound and music are—of what constitutes them, as well as what they constitute—is precisely what is at stake.
All the Marxes at the Big Store; or, General Fetishism
Authors: Szendy Peter
Published: January 2016

Taking a close reading of the Marx Brothers' film The Big Store (1941) as its thread, this article explores the possibility of extending the concept of fetishism to the very performance of music, that is, to the bodily gestures and keyboardistic fingerings executed by Chico and Harpo. Drawing on Karl Marx's and Sigmund Freud's theories of fetishism, but also taking into account Jacques Derrida's generalization of the very concept of fetish, Szendy then suggests that the condition of possibility for musicality in general (or cinematicity, for that matter) is a certain type of striated, discrete mobility, which he names “elevatoriality.” Fetishism would be inherent to music insofar as it is the name not only for the possibility of infinite exchange or circulation that music presupposes but also for the possibility of a freeze-frame or a stuck key where eyes or ears can halt.
From Authoritarian to Free State: Balancing Faith and Politics in Tunisia
Authors: Gandolfo Luisa
Published: January 2016

Discourses on the Arab revolutions have, to date, focused on regime change and its implications for future democratization in the region. This essay explores the impetus behind the religiopolitical tensions in Tunisia and posits that to grasp the events unfolding since 2010 the unrest must be located within an understanding of the dynamic between the Islamists and the state under President Habib Bourguiba and, later, President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. The essay revisits the terms revolutionary and revolution within the Tunisian context and reflects on the application of the label revolutionary, contending that the act of selective labeling bears implications for an objective understanding of the revolution and its actors. Finally, the essay evaluates how far the political tensions of the past continue to mark the present through the subsequent generation of religious movements emerging from the revolution.
Attractant and repellent cues cooperate in guiding a subset of olfactory sensory axons to a well-defined protoglomerular target
Authors: Taku Alemji A. , Marcaccio Christina L. , Ye Wenda , Krause Gregory J. , Raper Jonathan A.
Published: January 2016

Olfactory sensory axons target well-defined intermediate targets in the zebrafish olfactory bulb called protoglomeruli well before they form odorant receptor-specific glomeruli. A subset of olfactory sensory neurons are labeled by expression of the or111-7:IRES:GAL4 transgene whose axons terminate in the central zone (CZ) protoglomerulus. Previous work has shown that some of these axons misproject to the more dorsal and anterior dorsal zone (DZ) protoglomerulus in the absence of Netrin 1/Dcc signaling. In search of additional cues that guide these axons to the CZ, we found that Semaphorin 3D (Sema3D) is expressed in the anterior bulb and acts as a repellent that pushes them towards the CZ. Further analysis indicates that Sema3D signaling is mediated through Nrp1a, while Nrp2b also promotes CZ targeting but in a Sema3D-independent manner. nrp1a, nrp2b and dcc transcripts are detected in or111-7 transgene-expressing neurons early in development and both Nrp1a and Dcc act cell-autonomously in sensory neurons to promote accurate targeting to the CZ. dcc and nrp1a double mutants have significantly more DZ misprojections than either single mutant, suggesting that the two signaling systems act independently and in parallel to direct a specific subset of sensory axons to their initial protoglomerular target.
Future developments: your thoughts and our plans
Authors: Pourquié Olivier , Brown Katherine
Published: January 2016

Summary: In this Editorial, we discuss the results of a recent community survey on the current state and future directions of the journal.
Evaluation of Archival documents transfer operation in Algerians central administrations: study made in Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research
Authors: Tirichine Omar , Youcef Ouled
Published: January 2016

The Archives documents are very important in organism, they trace path of both public and private organism, justify all actions and activities, help leaders to make good decisions, what makes them more important is that they guaranty rights of people and organisms that belong to them…..etc., the transfer of records from bureau to archives center is very important operation, it has big impact on other operations of archives management, because it is the first operation in Archival chain, this study was made in central administration of high studies and scientific research ministry, in Algeria, his goal is evaluate records transfer operation, gives some recommendations for improving this records transfer. First part dedicated to research presentation, introduction, problematic, hypothesis and search goal. Second part gives some principles of archives sciences, managing records, document life cycle…..etc. , process of records transfer from bureau to archives center, the tools we can be used to perform this operation for preparing lectures to get in study. Third part is marrow of study; it presents research tool, process, results, recommendations and conclusion.
The impact of international publishing on the ranking of universities in international classifications: Cairo University as an example
Authors: Baknam Kareman
Published: January 2016

This study aimed to clarify the importance of international publishing as a standard for classifying universities globally according to the known standards for classifying universities in the world. The study provides a presentation of the most famous international university classifications, which are, in order: Shanghai Classification, Times Classification, Webometrics Classification, QS Classification; In terms of defining the classification, its objectives, the criteria upon which the classification is based, and highlighting the relative weight of each criterion, in addition to that, the top universities ranked internationally in each classification in general are clarified, and the ranking of Cairo University in particular is clarified, whether at the level of international universities, Arab universities, or Egyptian universities in each classification. .
Radiographic and functional outcome of posterolateral lumbosacral fusion for low grade isthmic spondylolisthesis in children and adolescents
Authors: Tsirikos A. I. , Sud A. , McGurk S. M.
Published: January 2016

Aims

We reviewed 34 consecutive patients (18 female-16 male) with isthmic spondylolysis and grade I to II lumbosacral spondylolisthesis who underwent in situ posterolateral arthodesis between the L5 transverse processes and the sacral ala with the use of iliac crest autograft. Ten patients had an associated scoliosis which required surgical correction at a later stage only in two patients with idiopathic curves unrelated to the spondylolisthesis.

Methods

No patient underwent spinal decompression or instrumentation placement. Mean surgical time was 1.5 hours (1 to 1.8) and intra-operative blood loss 200 ml (150 to 340). There was one wound infection treated with antibiotics but no other complication. Radiological assessment included standing posteroanterior and lateral, Ferguson and lateral flexion/extension views, as well as CT scans.

Results

A solid posterolateral fusion was confirmed in all patients at mean latest follow-up of 4.7 years (3.4 to 9.8) beyond skeletal maturity into early adult life. Fusion of the isthmic lesion was documented in nine patients bilaterally and eight patients unilaterally. The poor fusion rate across the spondylolysis has not affected the excellent functional results of the procedure, which in our series depended on achieving a stable lumbosacral junction.

Conclusion

Quality of life assessment demonstrated significant improvement in all functional scores and high patient satisfaction with 28 patients returning to previous sports activities at an elite competitive level. Take home message: Posterolateral arthrodesis in situ with autologous iliac crest bone without instrumentation has achieved a solid fusion between the L5 transverse processes and the sacral ala in patients with grade I to II isthmic lumbosacral spondylolisthesis and this has produced excellent clinical outcomes and high patient satisfaction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:88–96.
Significant reduction in the incidence of C5 palsy after cervical laminoplasty using chilled irrigation water
Authors: Takenaka S. , Hosono N. , Mukai Y. , Tateishi K. , Fuji T.
Published: January 2016

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine whether chilled irrigation saline decreases the incidence of clinical upper limb palsy (ULP; a reduction of one grade or more on manual muscle testing; MMT), based on the idea that ULP results from thermal damage to the nerve roots by heat generated by friction during bone drilling.

Methods

Irrigation saline for drilling was used at room temperature (RT, 25.6°C) in open-door laminoplasty in 400 patients (RT group) and chilled to a mean temperature of 12.1°C during operations for 400 patients (low-temperature (LT) group). We assessed deltoid, biceps, and triceps brachii muscle strength by MMT. ULP occurring within two days post-operatively was categorised as early-onset palsy.

Results

The incidence of ULP (4.0% vs 9.5%, p = 0.003), especially early-onset palsy (1.0% vs 5.5%, p < 0.001), was significantly lower for the LT group than for the RT group. Multivariate analysis indicated that RT irrigation saline use, concomitant foraminotomy, and opened side were significant predictors for ULP.

Discussion

Using chilled irrigation saline during bone drilling significantly decreased the ULP incidence, particularly the early-onset type, and shortened the recovery period for ULP. Chilled irrigation saline can thus be recommended as a simple method for preventing ULP. Take home message: Chilled irrigation during laminoplasty reduces C5 palsy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:117–24.
Early mobilisation of thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurology
Authors: Jaffray D. C. , Eisenstein S. M. , Balain B. , Trivedi J. M. , Newton Ede M.
Published: January 2016

Aims

The authors present the results of a cohort study of 60 adult patients presenting sequentially over a period of 15 years from 1997 to 2012 to our hospital for treatment of thoracic and/or lumbar vertebral burst fractures, but without neurological deficit.

Method

All patients were treated by early mobilisation within the limits of pain, early bracing for patient confidence and all progress in mobilisation was recorded on video. Initial hospital stay was one week. Subsequent reviews were made on an outpatient basis.

Results

The mean duration from admission to final follow-up was three months, and longer follow-up was undertaken telephonically. The mean kyphosis deformity on arrival was 17.4° (5° to 29°); mean kyphosis at final discharge three months later was 19.5° (1° to 28°). Spinal canal encroachment had no influence on successful functional recovery.

Discussion

Pain has not been a significant problem for any patient, irrespective of the degree of kyphosis and no patient has a self-perception of clinical deformity. In all, 11 patients took occasional analgesia. All patients returned to their original work level or better. Two patients died 2.5 years after treatment, from unrelated causes. Take home message: The natural history of thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurology would appear to be benign. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:97–101.
Placement of the acetabular component
Authors: Beverland D. E. , O’Neill C. K. J. , Rutherford M. , Molloy D. , Hill J. C.
Published: January 2016

Ideal placement of the acetabular component remains elusive both in terms of defining and achieving a target. Our aim is to help restore original anatomy by using the transverse acetabular ligament (TAL) to control the height, depth and version of the component. In the normal hip the TAL and labrum extend beyond the equator of the femoral head and therefore, if the definitive acetabular component is positioned such that it is cradled by and just deep to the plane of the TAL and labrum and is no more than 4mm larger than the original femoral head, the centre of the hip should be restored. If the face of the component is positioned parallel to the TAL and psoas groove the patient specific version should be restored. We still use the TAL for controlling version in the dysplastic hip because we believe that the TAL and labrum compensate for any underlying bony abnormality.

The TAL should not be used as an aid to inclination. Worldwide, > 75% of surgeons operate with the patient in the lateral decubitus position and we have shown that errors in post-operative radiographic inclination (RI) of > 50° are generally caused by errors in patient positioning. Consequently, great care needs to be taken when positioning the patient. We also recommend 35° of apparent operative inclination (AOI) during surgery, as opposed to the traditional 45°.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B(1 Suppl A):37–43.
Ceramic on ceramic arthroplasty of the hip
Authors: Sentuerk U. , von Roth P. , Perka C.
Published: January 2016

The leading indication for revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) remains aseptic loosening owing to wear. The younger, more active patients currently undergoing THA present unprecedented demands on the bearings. Ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearings have consistently shown the lowest rates of wear. The recent advances, especially involving alumina/zirconia composite ceramic, have led to substantial improvements and good results in vitro.

Alumina/zirconia composite ceramics are extremely hard, scratch resistant and biocompatible. They offer a low co-efficient of friction and superior lubrication and lower rates of wear compared with other bearings. The major disadvantage is the risk of fracture of the ceramic. The new composite ceramic has reduced the risk of fracture of the femoral head to 0.002%. The risk of fracture of the liner is slightly higher (0.02%).

Assuming that the components are introduced without impingement, CoC bearings have major advantages over other bearings. Owing to the superior hardness, they produce less third body wear and are less vulnerable to intra-operative damage.

The improved tribology means that CoC bearings are an excellent choice for young, active patients requiring THA.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B(1 Suppl A):14–17.
The effects of various physical non-operative modalities on the pain in osteoarthritis of the knee
Authors: Cherian J. J. , Jauregui J. J. , Leichliter A. K. , Elmallah R. K. , Bhave A. , Mont M. A.
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of various non-operative modalities of treatment (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS); neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES); insoles and bracing) on the pain of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.

We conducted a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify the therapeutic options which are commonly adopted for the management of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.

The outcome measurement tools used in the different studies were the visual analogue scale and The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index pain index: all pain scores were converted to a 100-point scale.

A total of 30 studies met our inclusion criteria: 13 on insoles, seven on TENS, six on NMES, and four on bracing. The standardised mean difference (SMD) in pain after treatment with TENS was 1.796, which represented a significant reduction in pain. The significant overall effect estimate for NMES on pain was similar to that of TENS, with a SMD of 1.924. The overall effect estimate of insoles on pain was a SMD of 0.992. The overall effect of bracing showed a significant reduction in pain of 1.34.

Overall, all four non-operative modalities of treatment were found to have a significant effect on the reduction of pain in OA of the knee.

This study shows that non-operative physical modalities of treatment are of benefit when treating OA of the knee. However, much of the literature reviewed evaluates studies with follow-up of less than six months: future work should aim to evaluate patients with longer follow-up.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B(1 Suppl A):89–94.
Minimising the risk of infection
Authors: Heller S. , Rezapoor M. , Parvizi J.
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this article is to provide the reader with a seven-step checklist that could help in minimising the risk of PJI. The check list includes strategies that can be implemented pre-operatively such as medical optimisation, and reduction of the bioburden by effective skin preparation or actions taking during surgery such as administration of timely and appropriate antibiotics or blood conservation, and finally implementation of post-operative protocols such as efforts to minimise wound drainage and haematoma formation.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B(1 Suppl A):18–22.
The obese patient
Authors: Perry K. I. , MacDonald S. J.
Published: January 2016

Obesity is a worldwide epidemic that has both economic and health implications of enormous consequence. The obese patients tend to have earlier symptoms related to osteoarthritis, more peri-operative medical problems, higher rates of infection and more technical difficulties intra-operatively following hip and knee arthroplasty. Nevertheless, these patients have good long-term clinical outcomes and implant survival rates and are often some of the most satisfied patients after joint arthroplasty. Therefore, obese patients should not be denied surgery based on their weight alone.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B(1 Suppl A):3–5.
Total shoulder arthroplasty with a second-generation tantalum trabecular metal-backed glenoid component
Authors: Merolla G. , Chin P. , Sasyniuk T. M. , Paladini P. , Porcellini G.
Published: January 2016

Aims

We evaluated clinical and radiographic outcomes of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) using the second-generation Trabecular Metal (TM) Glenoid component. The first generation component was withdrawn in 2005 after a series of failures were reported. Between 2009 and 2012, 40 consecutive patients with unilateral TSA using the second-generation component were enrolled in this clinical study. The mean age of the patients was 63.8 years (40 to 75) and the mean follow-up was 38 months (24 to 42).

Methods

Patients were evaluated using the Constant score (CS), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and routine radiographs.

Results

Significant differences were found between the pre- and post-operative CS (p = 0.003), ASES (p = 0.009) scores and CS subscores of pain (p < 0.001), strength (p < 0.001) and mobility items (p < 0.05). No glenoid or humeral components migrated. Posterior thinning of the keel and slight wear at the polyethylene-TM interface was observed in one patient but was asymptomatic. Radiolucent lines were found around three humeral (< 1.5 mm) and two glenoid components (< 1 mm) and all were asymptomatic.

Discussion

TSA with the second-generation TM Glenoid component results in satisfactory to excellent clinical performance, function, and subjective satisfaction at a mean follow-up of about three years. Radiographic changes were few and did not affect the outcome. Take home message: This paper highlights that the second generation Trabecular Metal Glenoid has better outcomes than those reported with the first-generation component.   Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:75–80.
Platoon Interactions and Real-World Traffic Simulation and Validation Based on the LWR-IM
Authors: Ng Kok Mun , Reaz Mamun Bin Ibne
Published: January 2016

Platoon based traffic flow models form the underlying theoretical framework in traffic simulation tools. They are essentially important in facilitating efficient performance calculation and evaluation in urban traffic networks. For this purpose, a new platoon-based macroscopic model called the LWR-IM has been developed in [1]. Preliminary analytical validation conducted previously has proven the feasibility of the model. In this paper, the LWR-IM is further enhanced with algorithms that describe platoon interactions in urban arterials. The LWR-IM and the proposed platoon interaction algorithms are implemented in the real-world class I and class II urban arterials. Another purpose of the work is to perform quantitative validation to investigate the validity and ability of the LWR-IM and its underlying algorithms to describe platoon interactions and simulate performance indices that closely resemble the real traffic situations. The quantitative validation of the LWR-IM is achieved by performing a two-sampled t-test on queues simulated by the LWR-IM and real queues observed at these real-world locations. The results reveal insignificant differences of simulated queues with real queues where the p-values produced concluded that the null hypothesis cannot be rejected. Thus, the quantitative validation further proved the validity of the LWR-IM and the embedded platoon interactions algorithm for the intended purpose.
Model order reduction of dynamic skeletal muscle models
Authors: Mordhorst Mylena , Wirtz Daniel , Röhrle Oliver
Published: January 2016

Forward simulations of three-dimensional continuum-mechanical skeletal muscle models are a complex and computationally expensive problem. Moreover, considering a fully dynamic modelling framework based on the theory of finite elasticity is challenging as the muscles mechanical behaviour requires to consider a highly nonlinear, anisotropic, viscoelastic and incompressible material behaviour. The governing equations yield a nonlinear second-order differential algebraic equation (DAE) system, which represents a challenge for model order reduction techniques.
Design and the Function of Art
Authors: Brix Anders
Published: January 2016

Western thought tends to categorically separate art from “mere”
artefacts: The arts serve no function except for aesthetic contemplation,
while artefacts are functional objects intended for a specific purpose.This
separation has caused some confusion as to the field of design, which may
sometimes belong to either and at other times neither: not really art but
not just utility. Thus the concept of design has fluctuated between the
putative luxury of art and the practical necessity of technology. The
beaux-art view saw design as an art form in its own right. Contemporary
views, in contrast, tend to emphasize design’s capacities for problem
solving, innovation and the like—to the extent of turning design itself into
a “mere tool” for economic growth.This article examines how the art-artefact
dichotomy, rooted in the notion of “function,” permeates contemporary design
discourse. Through discussion of two examples, it reveals some of the
logical inconsistencies the dichotomy gives rise to.Having demonstrated the
shortcomings of such separation, it turns to discuss its origin in thought:
Language separates, while things, as such, are whole. Further discussion of
even more examples attempts to show how our perception of things is governed
and directed by our discourses, and how this may cause us to overlook
important features of both things in general and the potential of design in
particular.
Coalescent Times and Patterns of Genetic Diversity in Species with Facultative Sex: Effects of Gene Conversion, Population Structure, and Heterogeneity
Authors: Hartfield Matthew , Wright Stephen I , Agrawal Aneil F
Published: January 2016

Many diploid organisms undergo facultative sexual reproduction. However, little is currently known concerning the distribution of neutral genetic variation among facultative sexual organisms except in very simple cases. Understanding this distribution is important when making inferences about rates of sexual reproduction, effective population size, and demographic history. Here we extend coalescent theory in diploids with facultative sex to consider gene conversion, selfing, population subdivision, and temporal and spatial heterogeneity in rates of sex. In addition to analytical results for two-sample coalescent times, we outline a coalescent algorithm that accommodates the complexities arising from partial sex; this algorithm can be used to generate multisample coalescent distributions. A key result is that when sex is rare, gene conversion becomes a significant force in reducing diversity within individuals. This can reduce genomic signatures of infrequent sex (i.e., elevated within-individual allelic sequence divergence) or entirely reverse the predicted patterns. These models offer improved methods for assessing null patterns of molecular variation in facultative sexual organisms.