bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphic study of forearc basin sediments: Lower to Upper Cretaceous Budden Canyon Formation (Great Valley Group), northern California, USA
Authors: FERNANDO ALLAN GIL S. , NISHI HIROSHI , TANABE KAZUSHIGE , MORIYA KAZUYOSHI , IBA YASUHIRO , KODAMA KAZUTO , MURPHY MICHAEL A. , OKADA HISATAKE
Published: June 2011

The results of a calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphic investigation of the North Fork Cottonwood Creek section of the Budden Canyon Formation (BCF; Hauterivian–Turonian) in northern California are summarized using the Boreal – cosmopolitan Boreal Nannofossil Biostratigraphy (BC) – Upper Cretaceous Nannofossil Biostratigraphy (UC) nannofossil zonal schemes of Bown et al. and Burnett et al. Sixteen intervals, ranging from the BC15 to UC8 zones, were established in the section. Combined biostratigraphic and magnetostratigraphic studies suggest a Hauterivian to mid‐Turonian age for the studied sequence. The Hauterivian–Barremian, Barremian–Aptian, Aptian–Albian, Albian–Cenomanian, and Cenomanian–Turonian stage boundaries were delineated near the top of the Ogo Member, below the Huling Sandstone Member, within the upper Chickabally Member, in the upper portion of the Bald Hills Member and within the Gas Point Member, respectively. Unconformities probably exist at the base of the Huling Sandstone Member and the upper part of the upper Chickabally Member. The nannofossil assemblage in the North Fork Cottonwood Creek suggests that the study area was under the influence of cold‐water conditions during the Barremian to Lower Aptian interval, shifting to tropical/warm‐water conditions during the Albian to Turonian interval as a result of the mid‐Cretaceous global warming. Although oceanic anoxic events have not yet been reported in the BCF, preliminary total organic carbon, along with nannofossil data, suggest the presence of the global Cenomanian–Turonian boundary oceanic anoxic event 2.
Partial longitudinal resection of the anorectum and sphincter for very low rectal adenocarcinoma: a surgical approach to avoid permanent colostomy
Authors: Cong J. C. , Chen C. S. , Zhang H. , Qiao L. , Liu E. Q.
Published: June 2011

Aim  Abdominoperineal resection has been the standard procedure for low rectal cancer. The present study details a new technique, partial longitudinal resection of the anorectum and sphincter, and assesses the oncological and functional outcomes.

Method  Between January 2004 and April 2008, 12 patients underwent partial longitudinal resection of the anorectum and sphincter for low rectal cancer. All patients underwent a diverting ileostomy and received biofeedback training before stoma closure. Functional results were assessed by vector manometry, Wexner constipation score and Wexner incontinence score. The quality of life (QoL) was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ‐C30).

Results  There was no postoperative mortality and a R0 curative resection was confirmed in every case. Morbidity included anastomotic leakage in three patients, one of whom underwent reoperation, and stenosis in 11, which was successfully managed with dilatation. The patient who underwent reoperation was not included in the functional analysis. The 11 successful patients received biofeedback training for 1–4 months, and underwent ileostomy closure 6–12 months after surgery. No patient had severe faecal incontinence after stoma closure. The EORTC QLQ‐C30 global health status and QoL scores at 12 months after stoma closure were 50.4 ± 24.3, similar to preoperation scores of 52.3 ± 25.6 (P = 0.927), and not significantly different to scores for the healthy control population of 63.4 ± 23.5 (P = 0.539). No patients developed local recurrence during the median observation period (35.5 months). One patient had distant metastases at 24 months, and underwent resection of the left liver.

Conclusion  Curability and acceptable anal function can be obtained by partial longitudinal resection of the anorectum and sphincter in patients with very low rectal cancers. This technique is recommended as an alternative to abdominoperineal resection in patients with external sphincter muscle invasion or tumours located below the dentate line.
Marijuana‐induced recurrent acute coronary syndrome with normal coronary angiograms
Authors: SAFAA ALI M. , MARKHAM RYAN , JAYASINGHE ROHAN
Published: June 2011

We report a case of a man in his 40s presented to the emergency department twice, 1 month apart, with severe ischaemic sounding chest pain within 1 h of smoking marijuana on both occasions. He had elevated serial biomarkers and ischaemic electrocardiogram changes. His coronary angiograms on both episodes were entirely normal along with normal echocardiogram. This potentially suggests a coronary vasospasm as an underlying mechanism for these non‐ST elevation myocardial infarctions. This should alert clinicians and the public alike to this potential risk of cannabis use.[Safaa AM, Markham R, Jayasinghe R. Marijuana‐induced recurrent acute coronary syndrome with normal coronary angiograms. Drug Alcohol Rev 2012;31:91–94]
Privatising Foster Care: The UK Experience within an International Context
Authors: Sellick Clive
Published: June 2011

Foster placements for children in care in the UK are being increasingly provided by non‐governmental organizations. However, although local authorities are purchasing almost one third of their required placements from these external agencies, the UK has not yet followed the examples of other English speaking countries. In parts of the USA and Australia all fostering and other child welfare services have been wholly outsourced or transferred from the public to private and non‐profit organizations. A number of these initiatives have been independently evaluated and some of their findings resonate with what seems to be happening in the UK. This article explores these but also other factors which appear to distinguish the policy and practice of foster care in the UK from those of the USA and Australia. Using theory related to the privatization of welfare and relevant domestic and international research, the article examines the development of external commissioning of foster care in Britain. In the light of changing law, ideology and policy, the article concludes by speculating on how the future of fostering and wider child welfare provision in the UK may look, at a time of political change and economic austerity.
Corporate Governance and the Value of Excess Cash Holdings of Large European Firms
Authors: Schauten Marc B.J. , van Dijk Dick , van der Waal Jan‐Paul
Published: June 2011

We examine the relation between the quality of corporate governance and the value of excess cash for large publicly listed European firms from common‐law and civil‐law countries. Besides different law origins, we distinguish different dimensions of corporate governance by using ratings for the quality of Shareholder rights, Takeover defences, Disclosure and Board structure. We find that the value of excess cash is positively related to the Takeover defences score only. This finding is mainly driven by firms from common‐law countries. If we focus on changes in the level of excess cash, we do find significant effects for civil‐law country firms, where the marginal value of €1 of excess cash in a poorly governed firm is only €0.78 while the value is €1.10 for a good governed firm. We furthermore show that the spending of excess cash by poorly governed firms has a negative impact on their operating performance.
The development of a blended learning approach to delivering information skills training to large health related student audiences with limited staff resource
Authors: Ware Fiona
Published: June 2011

This feature considers the challenges that academic librarians are increasingly being faced with in the delivery of information skills training to large student numbers with limited time and staff resources. A case study is presented of how an academic liaison librarian used a blended learning approach and innovative teaching practice to successfully deliver information skills training to large student numbers within the Faculty of Health and Social Care at Hull University.

HS
Maternal hepatitis B and hepatitis C carrier status and perinatal outcomes
Authors: Connell Laura E. , Salihu Hamisu M. , Salemi Jason L. , August Euna M. , Weldeselasse Hanna , Mbah Alfred K.
Published: June 2011

Background and aims: To examine the association between maternal hepatitis B and C mono‐ and co‐infections with singleton pregnancy outcomes in the state of Florida.

Methods: We analysed all Florida births from 1998 to 2007 using birth certificate records linked to hospital discharge data. The main outcomes of interest were selected pregnancy outcomes including preterm birth, low birth weight (LBW), small for gestational age (SGA), fetal distress, neonatal jaundice and congenital anomaly.

Results: The study sample consisted of 1 670 369 records. Human immunodeficiency virus co‐infection and all forms of substance abuse were more frequent in mothers with hepatitis B and C infection. After using multivariable modelling to adjust for important socio‐demographical variables and obstetric complications, women with hepatitis C infection were more likely to have infants born preterm [odds ratio (OR), 1.40; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.15–1.72], with LBW (OR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.11–1.74) and congenital anomaly (OR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.14–2.11). In addition, women with hepatitis B infection were less likely to have infants born SGA (OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.66–0.95).

Conclusions: Our findings provide further understanding of the association between maternal hepatitis B or C carrier status and perinatal outcomes. Infants born to women with hepatitis C infection appear to be at risk for poor birth outcomes, including preterm birth, LBW and congenital anomaly.
A Case of Focal Fibrosis Near the Fascicle as a Possible Cause of Incessant Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: LEE DONG‐WON , OH IL‐YOUNG , SEO JEONG‐WOOK , CHOI EUE‐KEUN , OH SEIL
Published: June 2011

A 22‐year‐old woman presented with ventricular tachycardia and heart failure of acute onset, and rapid hemodynamic deterioration despite medical treatment. The heart failure required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation followed by cardiac transplantation. The histopathological mapping of the ventricular conduction system of the explanted heart revealed focal fibrosis of the myocardium in close proximity to the left posterior fascicle. There was no other evidence of myocardial infarction or myocarditis. Immunohistochemical staining did not demonstrate any cause of this lesion; however, atrophy of cardiac muscle fibers around the lesion was noted. The focal fibrosis was presumed to be the cause of the ventricular tachycardia. (PACE 2012; 35:e131–e135)
The carbohydrate recognition domain of collectins
Authors: Veldhuizen Edwin J. A. , van Eijk Martin , Haagsman Henk P.
Published: June 2011

Collectins are effector molecules of the innate immune system that play an important role in the first line of defence against bacteria, viruses and fungi. Most of their interactions with microorganisms are mediated through their carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD), which binds in a Ca2+‐dependent manner to glycoconjugates. This domain is a well‐known structure that is present in a larger group of proteins comprising the C‐type lectin domain family. Collectins form a subgroup within this family based on the presence of a collagen domain and the trimerization of CRDs, which are essential for the ligand‐binding properties of these proteins. The ligand specificity among the nine collectin members is significantly different as a result of both the structural organization of the trimers and specific sequence changes in the binding pocket of the CRD. In addition, some collectin members have additional features, such as N‐linked glycosylation of CRD residues and additional loop structures within the CRD that have a large impact on their interaction with the glycoconjugates present on microorganisms or host cells. The availability of crystal structures of three members of the collectin family (surfactant proteins A and D and mannan‐binding protein) provides an important tool for addressing the impact of these CRD differences on ligand binding. In this review, the structural differences and similarities between the CRDs of collectins are summarized and their relationship with their ligand‐binding characteristics is discussed.
Plant Variety Protection in Sri Lanka and its Impact on Sri Lanka's Agricultural Economy: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Perera Asanka
Published: June 2011

Plant variety protection legislation, commonly known as plant breeder's rights laws, is a concept novel to Sri Lanka and this paper discusses certain safeguards. The requirement to provide intellectual property rights for plant varieties arrived for the first time with the ratification of the Agreement on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement). Yet Sri Lanka still debates how to meet those requirements sixteen years later. As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and as a signatory of the TRIPS Agreement, Sri Lanka is obliged to confer effective protection on plant varieties either by patents, by a system specifically for plant varieties (sui generis) or any combination thereof. A sui generis system with regard to plant varieties is provided in the International Convention for the Protection of New Plant Varieties (UPOV). The UPOV 1978 or 1991 model is another way in which Sri Lanka could provide a sui generis system. At present, there is still no intellectual property protection for plant varieties in Sri Lanka and hence Sri Lanka is non‐compliant with TRIPS. In order to fulfil its article 27.3 (b) TRIPS obligations, the National Intellectual Property Office (NIPO) in Sri Lanka introduced the Protection of Plant Varieties Bill 2001 (the Draft), based on the UPOV 1991 Convention, as its version of the new sui generis regime. This article discusses safeguards for traditional varieties and for small farmers. For the time being, my discussion will address the merits of protection. In the course of the discussion, I shall refer to the Indian legislation along with other national legislation and international agreements additional to TRIPS.
Patent Law and Public Health under the TRIPS Agreement Standards: How Does Vietnam Benefit from the WTO Membership?
Authors: Tran Anh L. T.
Published: June 2011

Being a full‐fledged WTO member from January 2007, Vietnam started to gradually open its pharmaceutical market from 1 January 2007 with drug tariff reduction and to allow the foreign pharmaceutical companies to open their branches in Vietnam. Consequently, as the level of productions of drugs remains low, the price of pharmaceutical products in Vietnam's market depends largely on the international market and foreign pharmaceutical companies. Indeed, these challenges require Vietnam to find solutions and one of them would be a legal response to the problems. The time has come to review the existing legal framework for pharmaceutical products and devise some ways of addressing the problems without undermining the obligations arising out of the Agreement on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement) and patent law concerning access to medicine and the price, importation and production of drugs in Vietnam. For this, an analysis of the manner in which the TRIPS Agreement provisions on patents have been implemented is called for so that some suggestions on how to use the provisions of “the TRIPS Agreement exceptions” and the TRIPS Agreement amendments could be made in order to improve the access to medicine by the people of Vietnam regardless of their level of income.
Distinctive aquatic assemblages in water‐filled tree holes: a novel component of freshwater biodiversity in New Zealand temperate rainforests
Authors: BLAKELY TANYA J. , HARDING JON S. , DIDHAM RAPHAEL K.
Published: June 2011

Abstract.  1. Water‐filled tree holes provide important freshwater microhabitats for a wide array of aquatic species in rainforest canopies. There is extensive indirect evidence of the distinctiveness of water‐filled tree‐hole faunas, but few direct quantitative comparisons with ground‐based freshwater habitats, in either tropical or temperate regions. Here, we explore the importance of water‐filled tree holes for aquatic invertebrate species in the temperate rainforests of New Zealand. It is well documented that freshwaters in New Zealand are dominated by relatively few ubiquitous genera, many of which are habitat generalists. The key question, therefore, is whether water‐filled tree holes in New Zealand’s temperate rainforest are also dominated by habitat generalists that typically utilise ground‐level water bodies, or whether water‐filled tree holes support habitat‐specialist species.

2. Water‐filled tree holes were dominated by dipteran larvae, whereas ground‐based water bodies were dominated by mayflies, dipterans, and other arthropods. Most importantly, tree‐hole assemblage composition was markedly distinct from that of the ground‐based water bodies, with only eight (out of a total of 83) aquatic species shared in common between tree holes and adjacent ground‐based freshwater habitats.

3. Although water‐filled tree holes are typically rare and patchily distributed within New Zealand’s rainforest canopies, our results show very clearly that a distinct assemblage of freshwater species has evolved to occupy these unique microhabitats. We emphasise the importance of incorporating the unique biodiversity of water‐filled tree holes into future conservation prioritisation exercises and biodiversity management plans for temperate rainforest remnants.
Diagnostic yield and efficacy of endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration in mediastinal lymphadenopathy
Authors: Jernlås Björn , Nyberger Henrik , Ek Lars , Öhman Ronny , Jönsson Per , Nozohoor Shahab
Published: June 2011

Introduction:  Endobronchial ultrasound transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) is an emerging minimally invasive option for pathologic examination of intrathoracic lymphadenopathy as well as for staging lung cancer.

Objectives:  To evaluate the diagnostic yield and possible learning curve effects on diagnostic performance using EBUS‐TBNA in mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis was performed on 243 consecutive patients who underwent EBUS‐TBNA over a 4‐year period. Demographic and clinical data and pathology results were analysed for different time frames in order to evaluate potential learning curve effects. The procedures were performed by two experienced bronchoscopists at a single university medical centre.

Results:  Samples were representative in 83% (200/243) of the patients. The overall diagnostic yield was 66% (n = 161/243). The diagnostic accuracy of EBUS‐TBNA for detecting malignancy was 98.0% and for lung cancer 98.5%. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for lung cancer stage ≥N1 and malignant disease were 100% for the first three studied periods and slightly less favourable in the most recent study period. Representative samples were obtained more frequently in the latter study periods (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  EBUS‐TBNA is a safe method with a learning curve that is easily overcome, although previous experience with ultrasound may be necessary. The diagnostic yield of EBUS‐TBNA is in accordance with previously reported yield of standard cervical mediastinoscopy. At present, however, the relationship between EBUS‐TBNA and mediastinoscopy appears to be complementary rather than substitutive.

Please cite this paper as: Jernlås B, Nyberger H, Ek L, Öhman R, Jönsson P and Nozohoor S. Diagnostic yield and efficacy of endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration in mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Clin Respir J 2012; 6: 88–95.
Pemetrexed in malignant pleural mesothelioma and the clinical outcome
Authors: Knuuttila Aija , Salomaa Eija‐Riitta , Saikkonen Suvi , Hurme Saija , Salo Jarmo
Published: June 2011

Introduction:  Pemetrexed has emerged as standard chemotherapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).

Objectives:  MPMs at two Finnish University Hospitals during 7 years (2000–2006) were reviewed in order to evaluate the treatments, survival and prognostic factors. The results in two periods (before pemetrexed use in 2000–2002 and with pemetrexed in 2003–2006) were compared.

Methods:  Data were collected from the individual patient records retrospectively, and analysed.

Results:  Altogether 197 patients were diagnosed with following histologies: 136 (69%) epithelioid, 19 (10%) sarcomatoid, 17 (9%) mixed, 25 (13%) not specified; 141 (72%) patients received treatment (five extrapleural pneumonectomy, 36 pleurectomy/decortication, 126 chemotherapy). Median survival was 12.9 months and the 1‐, 2‐ and 3‐year survivals were 51.8%, 21.8% and 12.1%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed no significant difference in survival between the patients diagnosed before or during the pemetrexed era (P = 0.124). The patients receiving pemetrexed or other chemotherapy had median survivals of 16.7 and 15.3 months, respectively. The independent prognostic factors for survival were histology and asbestos exposure. Non‐epithelioid histology yielded 17 times higher risk of dying than epithelioid. Asbestos exposure doubled the risk of dying, but only in patients diagnosed in 2003–2006.

Conclusions:  Pemetrexed is beneficial for selected patients, but it has not changed the outcome of the whole MPM population as much as perhaps anticipated. Patient groups with various treatments or symptomatic care only reached survival results comparable to those reported in chemotherapy trials, thus emphasising the need for better subtyping of mesothelioma and individualising the treatment.

Please cite this paper as: Knuuttila A, Salomaa E‐R, Saikkonen S, Hurme S and Salo J. Pemetrexed in malignant pleural mesothelioma and the clinical outcome. Clin Respir J 2012; 6: 96–103.
Genetic variations in detoxification enzymes and HIF‐1α in Japanese patients with COPD
Authors: Putra Andika Chandra , Tanimoto Keiji , Arifin Marina , Antariksa Budhi , Hiyama Keiko
Published: June 2011

Introduction:  Genetic factors contribute as major determinants in the pathophysiological mechanisms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Therefore, identification of candidate genes and various gene polymorphisms have improved our understanding of COPD.

Objectives:  Clarify the genes, including HIF1A, that contribute to the development of COPD.

Methods:  We compared the genotype frequencies of 12 polymorphisms in seven detoxification‐related genes (GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1 exon 5, CYP1A1 exon 7, CYP1A1 3′‐flanking, CYP2E1 intron 6, CYP2E1 5′‐flanking, EPHX1 exon 3, EPHX1 exon 4 and HMOX1 promoter) and the hypoxia‐related HIF1A (C1772T and G1790A) genes between 48 Japanese patients with work‐related COPD who had a working history in a poison gas factory during World War II and two control groups (n = 172 and 110 subjects, respectively).

Results:  As expected, wild homozygotes for GSTP1 Ile105Val and EPHX1 slow/very slow phenotypes were associated with susceptibility (P = 0.031) and severity (P = 0.036) of COPD, respectively. Moreover, compound heterozygosity of transcription‐activating HIF1A polymorphisms was observed in two patients with COPD, but not in control individuals (P = 0.091).

Conclusion:  This is the first report that examined HIF1A polymorphisms in COPD and demonstrated a possible role of HIF‐1α in COPD, as well as GSTP1 and EPHX1.

Please cite this paper as: Putra AC, Tanimoto K, Arifin M, Antariksa B and Hiyama K. Genetic variations in detoxification enzymes and HIF‐1α in Japanese patients with COPD. Clin Respir J 2013; 7: 7–15.
Nonseptic tenosynovitis of the digital flexor tendon sheath caused by longitudinal tears in the digital flexor tendons: A retrospective study of 135 tenoscopic procedures
Authors: ARENSBURG L. , WILDERJANS H. , SIMON O. , DEWULF J. , BOUSSAUW B.
Published: June 2011

Reasons for performing study:Longitudinal tears (LTs) of the digital flexor tendons are an important cause of chronic tenosynovitis of the digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS). The origin of those marginal tears is not yet fully understood. The long‐term outcome after medical and surgical treatment is guarded.

Objectives:To determine the prevalence of LTs of the digital flexor tendons in a large population of horses undergoing diagnostic tenoscopy of the DFTS and to assess the outcome of surgical treatment and the factors influencing the outcome.

Methods:Medical records of 130 horses with chronic tenosynovitis of the DFTS that had tenoscopic surgery between 1999 and 2009 were evaluated. One hundred and thirty‐five DFTSs were examined. LTs were diagnosed in 104 DFTSs in 101 horses and long‐term follow‐up was obtained.

Results:Seventy‐eight percent of the horses with a nonseptic tenosynovitis of the DFTS had a LT. Preoperative ultrasonographic examination diagnosed tears in 76% of the cases. In showjumpers forelimbs were more frequently affected than hindlimbs (88 vs. 12%), with the right front having a higher incidence of injury than the left front (76 vs. 24%). Seventy‐nine percent of the tears involved the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) and 87% were located on the lateral tendon border. Thirty‐seven horses (38%) returned to an equal or higher level of work. The use of a radiofrequency probe (coblation) was associated with a lower level of performance and decreased the cosmetic end result. Persistence of marked post operative distension of the DFTS carried a poor prognosis for return to previous level of work.

Conclusions and potential relevance:A guarded prognosis for future soundness should be given to horses presented for treatment of LTs of the digital flexor tendons. The use of coblation wands had a negative effect on the final outcome.
Arthroscopic reattachment of osteochondritis dissecans cartilage flaps of the femoropatellar joint: Long‐term results
Authors: SPARKS H. D. , NIXON A. J. , FORTIER L. A. , MOHAMMED H. O.
Published: June 2011

Reasons for performing study:Long‐term efficacy of arthroscopic cartilage reattachment for the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions in the equine femoropatellar joint is unknown.

Objective:To evaluate radiographic outcome and long‐term performance of horses undergoing OCD reattachment.

Hypothesis:Separated OCD cartilage flaps may be reincorporated into the joint surface by reattachment rather than flap removal.

Methods:Polydioxanone pins were utilised arthroscopically to reattach OCD lesions in 40 of 44 joints from 27 horses. Cartilage was reattached when it had persisting perimeter continuity, the surface was not deeply fissured or irregular, and the cartilage was not protuberant or extensively mineralised. Bone marrow aspirate concentrate was grafted to additional areas denuded of cartilage or alongside reattached cartilage.

Results:Breeds included Thoroughbred (n = 18), Quarter Horse (n = 4), Warmblood (n = 3), Standardbred (n = 1) and Arabian (n = 1). Mean age was 9.7 months. Radiographic lesion length was 1.5–6.3 cm. Reattachment alone was used in 32 of 44 affected joints, a combination of debridement and reattachment in 8 joints and debridement alone in 4 joints. One horse was destroyed due to tendon laceration. Of the remaining 26 horses, mean duration of follow‐up was 15.6 months (range 2 months–12 years). Radiographic resolution of OCD lesions treated with reattachment was significantly improved at 6 months. Twenty horses had long‐term performance data, of which 19 were sound and had reached intended athletic potential. One horse remained lame, and an additional 6 were sound but remained unbroken or were convalescing. Thus, an overall success rate based upon continued soundness in performing horses was 95% (19/20).

Conclusion:Cartilage flap reattachment can salvage OCD cartilage by integration with the underlying bone.

Potential relevance:Extensive OCD cartilage flaps may be salvaged by reattachment which can result in normal radiographic subchondral bone contour and long‐term athletic performance.
Exercise in Thoroughbred yearlings during sales preparation: A cohort study
Authors: BOLWELL C. F. , ROGERS C. W. , FRENCH N. P. , FIRTH E. C.
Published: June 2011

Reasons for performing study: There is increasing evidence suggesting that early exercise in Thoroughbred racehorses may be beneficial to the development of the musculoskeletal system. At present, information on the exercise programmes and health problems of individual yearlings during a sales preparation is scant.

Objectives: To describe the exercise and health problems of Thoroughbred yearlings during preparation for sales, and to identify variations in exercise between and within farms.

Methods: A prospective cohort study was used to collect exercise and health information from 18 farms across New Zealand. Daily exercise records for individual horses were recorded during the studfarms' preparation for the annual national yearling sales in January 2009.

Results: Data were collected from 319 yearlings, of which 283 (88.7%) were exercised (hand walking, mechanical walker and lungeing) during their preparations. Sales preparation lasted a median of 69 days (interquartile range 61–78) and differed significantly between farms (P<0.001). The median exercise time performed differed significantly by gender (P<0.001), farm (P<0.001) and month of the preparation (P<0.001), but not by type of sale (P = 0.14) or category of sales price (P = 0.12). Within certain farms, daily exercise differed between horses as did total exercise by gender and the number of days spent in the sales preparation. Lameness was the most common condition affecting yearlings and the overall incidence rate of lameness was 0.08 per 100 horse days (95% confidence interval 0.05–0.13). Incidence rates of lameness varied significantly between farms (P = 0.02), but not by age (P = 0.77), sales type (P = 0.58) or month of the preparation (P = 0.53).

Conclusions and potential relevance: Yearling exercise programmes varied between and within farms. Since exercise is already being tailored for each individual horse, there may be an opportunity to allow for modifications to sales preparation with the future career in mind.
Endothelium-independent vasorelaxation by ticlopidine and clopidogrel in rat caudal artery
Authors: Froldi Guglielmina , Bertin Riccardo , Dorigo Paola , Montopoli Monica , Caparrotta Laura
Published: June 2011

Objectives

Thienopyridines are prodrugs currently used as anti-aggregating agents. The aim of this study was to determine if these compounds might have vascular activity independent of hepatic bioactivation.

Methods

The direct activity of thienopyridines was studied in rat caudal arterial rings and aortic smooth muscle cells in culture.

Key findings

Both compounds (0.01 µm–100 µm) showed a concentration-dependent vasorelaxation in arterial tissues precontracted with phenylephrine, 5-hydroxytryptamine and KCl. The relaxation induced by 100 µm ticlopidine and clopidogrel was greater than 80%. The relaxation by ticlopidine was compared with the activity of acetylcholine. These two agents showed similar potency, although ticlopidine was slightly more active. Pretreatment with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME inhibited the relaxation by acetylcholine but not that by ticlopidine. To further study vasorelaxation by ticlopidine, other pharmacological inhibitors including propranolol, nifedipine and suramin were used. These compounds lacked inhibitory effects on the vasorelaxation by ticlopidine. In vascular smooth muscle cells, 1 µm ticlopidine induced a decrease in cell proliferation, while incubation with both ticlopidine and ADP or 2-methioADP led to an additive effect.

Conclusions

The data suggest that ticlopidine and clopidogrel cause relaxation of arterial tissues and influence vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation directly without hepatic biotransformation. Furthermore, the arterial relaxation induced in vitro by thienopyridines is endothelium independent, and β-adrenergic and P2 receptors are not involved.
Investigation of Inner Surface Groove Formation Under Radially Inward Pressure During Immersion Precipitation-Based Hollow Fiber Membrane Fabrication
Authors: Yin Jun , Coutris Nicole , Huang Yong
Published: June 2011

Axially aligned grooves can be formed on the hollow fiber membrane (HFM) inner surface under some controlled fabrication conditions during a typical immersion precipitation-based phase inversion fabrication process. Such grooved HFMs are finding promising medical applications for nerve repair and regeneration. For better nerve regeneration performance, the HFM groove geometry should be carefully controlled. Towards this goal, in this study the polyacrylonitrile (PAN) HFM groove number has been modeled based on the radially inward pressure-induced buckling mechanism. HFM has been modeled as a long six-layer fiber membrane, and the HFM inner skin layer has been treated as a thin-walled elastic cylindrical shell under the shrinkage-induced inward radial pressure. The groove number has been reasonably estimated based on the resulting buckling mode as compared with the experimental measurements.
Two-Sided Quadratic Model for Workpiece Fixturing Analysis
Authors: Luo Chen , Zhu LiMin , Ding Han
Published: June 2011

This paper presents a novel model for workpiece positioning analysis. Existing fixturing models may underestimate the positioning error due to neglect of the curvature of one or both contacting bodies. By using surface-to-surface signed distance function, a two-sided quadratic model for fixture locating analysis is developed. A system of quadratic sensitivity equations, which relate locators’ source errors to the resulting workpiece localization error, are derived. The second-order geometric properties of both workpiece and locators are taken fully into account. The present model is more accurate than the existing linear model and one-sided quadratic model, which is verified through numerical examples. It has potential applications in fixture design, fault diagnosis, and tolerance analysis.
Analysis of Capstone Design Reports: Visual Representations
Authors: Westmoreland Sophoria , Ruocco Ashley , Schmidt Linda
Published: June 2011

Mechanical engineers and those in related fields require effective written communication skills. These include the appropriate presentation of mechanical design information in visual format. A study of 48 Capstone Design Reports submitted over a period of five semesters gives insight into the visual representations used to describe designs. This study presents observations on the use of visuals in a set of Capstone Design Reports with particular emphasis on sketches. The findings are that students will include hand drawn sketches of design alternatives during the conceptual design process when specifically required to do so. The sketches tend not to be of high quality artistically but they do include details relevant to engineering analysis as determined by a coding scheme focused on the content level of sketches. The authors believe that the positive benefits of sketching should be encouraged by requiring students to produce hand drawn sketches and accepting sketches as visuals in concept generation design sections of design reports.
Experimental Study and Modeling of Lapping Using Abrasive Grits with Mixed Sizes
Authors: Chung Chunhui , Korach Chad S. , Kao Imin
Published: June 2011

In this paper, the lapping process of wafer surfaces is studied with experiments and contact modeling of surface roughness. In order to improve the performance of the lapping processes, effects of mixed abrasive grits in the slurry of the free abrasive machining (FAM) process are studied using a single-sided wafer-lapping machine. Under the same slurry density, a parametric experimental study employing different mixing ratios of large and small abrasive grits and various normal loadings on the wafer surface applied through a jig is conducted. Observations and measurements of the total amount of material removed, material removal rate, surface roughness, and relative angular velocity are presented as a function of various mixing ratios and loadings and discussed in the paper. The experiments show that the 1:1 mixing ratio of abrasives removes more material than other mixing ratios under the same conditions, with a slightly higher surface roughness. Modeling of the mixed abrasive particle distributions correspondingly indicates that the roughness trend is due to the abrasive size distribution and the particle contact mechanics. The results of this study can provide a good reference to the FAM processes that practitioners use today by exploiting different abrasive mixing ratios in slurry and normal loadings in the manufacturing processes.
Protein Interactome Reveals Converging Molecular Pathways Among Autism Disorders
Authors: Sakai Yasunari , Shaw Chad A. , Dawson Brian C. , Dugas Diana V. , Al-Mohtaseb Zaina , Hill David E. , Zoghbi Huda Y.
Published: June 2011

We developed an autism protein interaction network that provides a framework for studying autism pathogenesis and reveals shared molecular pathways among distinct autism spectrum disorders.
Ramping Up a Cell’s Chemical Weapon
Authors: Emadi Ashkan
Published: June 2011

Genetically correcting induced pluripotent stem cells derived from a patient with chronic granulomatous disease demonstrates the feasibility of this therapeutic approach.
Production in Escherichia coli of Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate-
co
-3-Hydroxyvalerate) with Differing Monomer Compositions from Unrelated Carbon Sources
Authors: Chen Quan , Wang Qian , Wei Guoqing , Liang Quanfeng , Qi Qingsheng
Published: June 2011

The industrial production of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-
co
-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) has been hindered by high cost and a complex control strategy caused by the addition of propionate. In this study, based on analysis of the PHBV biosynthesis process, we developed a PHBV biosynthetic pathway from a single unrelated carbon source via threonine biosynthesis in
Escherichia coli
. To accomplish this, we (i) overexpressed threonine deaminase, which is the key factor for providing propionyl-coenzyme A (propionyl-CoA), from different host bacteria, (ii) removed the feedback inhibition of threonine by mutating and overexpressing the
thrABC
operon in
E. coli
, and (iii) knocked out the competitive pathways of catalytic conversion of propionyl-CoA to 3-hydroxyvaleryl-CoA. Finally, we constructed a series of strains and mutants which were able to produce the PHBV copolymer with differing monomer compositions in a modified M9 medium supplemented with 20 g/liter xylose. The largest 3-hydroxyvalerate fraction obtained in the copolymer was 17.5 mol%.
Nodulation of Thermopsis lupinoides by a Mesorhizobium huakuii Strain with a UniquenodAGene in Kamtchatka, Russia
Authors: Ampomah Osei Yaw , Huss-Danell Kerstin
Published: June 2011

Very little is known about rhizobia that form nodules onThermopsisspp. We report the isolation of aMesorhizobium huakuiistrain with a uniquenodAgene that form nodules onThermopsis lupinoidesin Kamtchatka, Russia. The isolate did not form nodules onThermopsis chinensisorThermopsis caroliniana, which suggests it may be host specific.
Microbial Community Profile of a Lead Service Line Removed from a Drinking Water Distribution System
Authors: White Colin , Tancos Matthew , Lytle Darren A.
Published: June 2011

A corroded lead service line was removed from a drinking water distribution system, and the microbial community was profiled using 16S rRNA gene techniques. This is the first report of the characterization of a biofilm on the surface of a corroded lead drinking water service line. The majority of phylotypes have been linked to heavy-metal-contaminated environments.
Chromosomal Rearrangements in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhi Strains Isolated from Asymptomatic Human Carriers
Authors: Matthews T. David , Rabsch Wolfgang , Maloy Stanley
Published: June 2011

Host-specific serovars of
Salmonella enterica
often have large-scale chromosomal rearrangements that occur by recombination between
rrn
operons. Two hypotheses have been proposed to explain these rearrangements: (i) replichore imbalance from horizontal gene transfer drives the rearrangements to restore balance, or (ii) the rearrangements are a consequence of the host-specific lifestyle. Although recent evidence has refuted the replichore balance hypothesis, there has been no direct evidence for the lifestyle hypothesis. To test this hypothesis, we determined the
rrn
arrangement type for 20
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhi strains obtained from human carriers at periodic intervals over multiple years. These strains were also phage typed and analyzed for rearrangements that occurred over long-term storage versus routine culturing. Strains isolated from the same carrier at different time points often exhibited different arrangement types. Furthermore, colonies isolated directly from the Dorset egg slants used to store the strains also had different arrangement types. In contrast, colonies that were repeatedly cultured always had the same arrangement type. Estimated replichore balance of isolated strains did not improve over time, and some of the rearrangements resulted in decreased replicore balance. Our results support the hypothesis that the restricted lifestyle of host-specific
Salmonella
is responsible for the frequent chromosomal rearrangements in these serovars.

IMPORTANCE
Although it was previously thought that bacterial chromosomes were stable, comparative genomics has demonstrated that bacterial chromosomes are dynamic, undergoing rearrangements that change the order and expression of genes. While most
Salmonella
strains have a conserved chromosomal arrangement type, rearrangements are very common in host-specific
Salmonella
strains. This study suggests that chromosome rearrangements in the host-specific
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhi, the causal agent of typhoid fever, occur within the human host over time. The results also indicate that rearrangements can occur during long-term maintenance on laboratory medium. Although these genetic changes do not limit survival under slow-growth conditions, they may limit the survival of
Salmonella
Typhi in other environments, as predicted for the role of pseudogenes and genome reduction in niche-restricted bacteria.
NOTE ON ANOMALY CANCELLATION ON SO(32) HETEROTIC 5-BRANE
Authors: IMAZATO HARUNOBU , MIZOGUCHI SHUN'YA , YATA MASAYA
Published: June 2011

We show that the gauge, gravitational (tangent-bundle) and their mixed anomalies arising from the localized modes near a 5-brane in the SO(32) heterotic string theory cancel with the anomaly inflow from the bulk with the use of the Green–Schwarz mechanism on the brane, similarly to the E8×E8 5-brane case. We also compare our result with Mourad's analysis performed in the small-instanton limit.
EFFECT OF AWARENESS PROGRAMS IN CONTROLLING THE PREVALENCE OF AN EPIDEMIC WITH TIME DELAY
Authors: MISRA A. K. , SHARMA ANUPAMA , SINGH VISHAL
Published: June 2011

A nonlinear mathematical model with delay to capture the dynamics of effect of awareness programs on the prevalence of any epidemic is proposed and analyzed. It is assumed that pathogens are transmitted via direct contact between susceptibles and infectives. It is assumed further that cumulative density of awareness programs increases at a rate proportional to the number of infectives. It is considered that awareness programs are capable of inducing behavioral changes in susceptibles, which result in the isolation of aware population. The model is analyzed using stability theory of differential equations and numerical simulations. The model analysis shows that, though awareness programs cannot eradicate infection, they help in controlling the prevalence of disease. It is also found that time delay in execution of awareness programs destabilizes the system and periodic solutions may arise through Hopf-bifurcation.
FRACTAL DIMENSION OF THE DROSOPHILA CIRCADIAN CLOCK
Authors: FATHALLAH-SHAYKH HASSAN M.
Published: June 2011

Fractal geometry can adequately represent many complex and irregular objects in nature. The fractal dimension is typically computed by the box-counting procedure. Here I compute the box-counting and the Kaplan-Yorke dimensions of the 14-dimensional models of the Drosophila circadian clock. Clockwork Orange (CWO) is transcriptional repressor of direct target genes that appears to play a key role in controlling the dynamics of the clock. The findings identify these models as strange attractors and highlight the complexity of the time-keeping actions of CWO in light-day cycles. These fractals are high-dimensional counterexamples of the Kaplan-Yorke conjecture that uses the spectrum of the Lyapunov exponents.
A homozygous missense mutation in SCNN1A is responsible for a transient neonatal form of pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1
Authors: Dirlewanger Mirjam , Huser Delphine , Zennaro Maria-Christina , Girardin Eric , Schild Laurent , Schwitzgebel Valerie M.
Published: June 2011

Pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 (PHA1) is a monogenic disorder of mineralocorticoid resistance characterized by salt wasting, hyperkalemia, high aldosterone levels, and failure to thrive. An autosomal recessive form (AR-PHA1) is caused by mutations in the epithelial sodium channel ENaC with usually severe and persisting multiorgan symptoms. The autosomal dominant form of PHA1 (AD-PHA1) is due to mutations in the mineralocorticoid receptor causing milder and transient symptoms restricted to the kidney. We identified a homozygous missense mutation in the SCNN1A gene (c.727T>C/p.Ser243Pro), encoding α-subunit of ENaC (α-ENaC) in a prematurely born boy with a severe salt-losing syndrome. The patient improved rapidly under treatment, and dietary salt supplementation could be stopped after 6 mo. Interestingly, the patient's sibling born at term and harboring the same homozygous Ser243Pro mutation showed no symptom of salt-losing nephropathy. In vitro expression of the αSer243Pro ENaC mutant revealed a slight but significant decrease in ENaC activity that is exacerbated in the presence of high Na+ load. Our study provides the first evidence that ENaC activity is critical for the maintenance of salt balance in the immature kidney of preterm babies. Together with previous studies, it shows that, when the kidney is fully mature, the severity of the symptoms of AR-PHA1 is related to the degree of the ENaC loss of function. Finally, this study identifies a novel functional domain in the extracellular loop of ENaC.