bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing Nasopharyngeal Trauma: The Urethral Catheter–Assisted Nasotracheal Intubation Technique
Authors: Wong Allen , Subar Paul , Witherell Heidi , Ovodov Konstantin J
Published: March 2011

Nasal intubation is an advantageous approach for dental procedures performed in the hospital, ambulatory surgery center, or dental office, when possible. Although many who provide anesthesia services are familiar and comfortable with nasal intubation techniques, some are reluctant and uncomfortable because of lack of experience or fear of nasopharyngeal bleeding and trauma. It has been observed from experiences in various settings that many approaches may be adapted to the technique of achieving nasal intubation. The technique that is described in this paper suggests a minimally invasive approach that introduces the nasoendotracheal tube through the nasopharyngeal pathway to the oropharynx in an expedient manner while preserving the nasopharyngeal structures, thus lessening nasal bleeding and trauma to soft tissues. The technique uses a common urethral catheter and can be incorporated along with current intubation armamentaria. As with all techniques, some limitations to the approach have been identified and are described in this paper. Cases with limited mouth opening, neck injury, and difficult airways may necessitate alternative methods. However, the short learning curve along with the many benefits of this technique offers the anesthesia professional additional options for excellent patient care.
Adverse Drug Interactions
Authors: Becker Daniel E
Published: March 2011

The potential for interactions with current medications should always be considered when administering or prescribing any drug. Considering the staggering number of drugs patients may be taking, this task can be daunting. Fortunately, drug classes employed in dental practice are relatively few in number and therapy is generally brief in duration. While this reduces the volume of potential interactions, there are still a significant number to be considered. This article will review basic principles of drug interactions and highlight those of greatest concern in dental practice.
Toward the Validation of Visual Analogue Scale for Anxiety
Authors: Facco E , Zanette G , Favero L , Bacci C , Sivolella S , Cavallin F , Manani G
Published: March 2011

Anxiety is a relevant problem in dental practice. The Visual Analogue Scale for Anxiety (VAS‐A), introduced in dentistry in 1988, has not yet been validated in large series. The aim of this study is to check VAS‐A effectiveness in more than 1000 patients submitted to implantology. The VAS‐A and the Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) were administered preoperatively to 1114 patients (459 males and 655 females, age 54.7 ± 13.1 years). Statistical analysis was conducted with Pearson correlation coefficient, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and McNemar tests. A close correlation between DAS and VAS‐A was found (r  =  0.57, P < .0001); the VAS‐A thresholds of dental anxiety and phobia were 5.1 and 7.0 cm, respectively. Despite a significant concordance of tests in 800 cases (72%), disagreement was found in the remaining 314 cases (28%), and low DAS was associated with high VAS‐A (230 cases) or vice versa (84 cases). Our study confirms that VAS‐A is a simple, sensitive, fast, and reliable tool in dental anxiety assessment. The rate of disagreement between VAS‐A and DAS is probably due to different test sensitivities to different components of dental anxiety. VAS‐A can be used effectively in the assessment of dental patients, using the values of 5.1 cm and 7.0 cm as cutoff values for anxiety and phobia, respectively.
Kinematic Analysis of Gait Following Intra-articular Corticosteroid Injection into the Knee Joint with an Acute Exacerbation of Arthritis
Authors: Mehta Saurabh , Shay Barbara L. , Szturm Tony , El-Gabalawy Hani S.
Published: March 2011

Purpose: The objective of this study was to examine the effects of intra-articular corticosteroid injection (ICI) on ipsilateral knee flexion/extension, ankle dorsiflexion/plantarflexion (DF/PF), and hip abduction/adduction (abd/add) during stance phase in people with an acute exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) of the knee joint. The study also assessed the effects of ICI on spatiotemporal parameters of gait and functional status in this group.

Methods: Nine people with an exacerbation of RA of the knee were recruited. Kinematic and spatiotemporal gait parameters were obtained for each participant. Knee-related functional status was assessed using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Spatiotemporal gait parameters and joint angles (knee flexion, ankle DF/PF, hip abd/add) of the affected side were compared pre- and post-ICI.

Results: Data for eight people were available for analysis. Median values for knee flexion and ankle PF increased significantly following ICI. Gait parameters of cadence, velocity, bilateral stride length, bilateral step length, step width, double-support percentage, and step time on the affected side also showed improvement. Pain and knee-related functional status as measured by the KOOS showed improvement.

Conclusions: This study demonstrated a beneficial short-term effect of ICI on knee-joint movements, gait parameters, and knee-related functional status in people with acute exacerbation of RA of the knee.
The Animal Rights Debate: Abolition or Regulation? By Gary L. Francione and Robert Garner. Columbia University Press: New York, NY, USA, 2010; Paperback, 144 pp; $23.05; ISBN: 978-0231149556; Hardcover, 288 pp; $74.10; ISBN: 978-0231149549
Authors: Mepham Ben
Published: March 2011

The simple, but quite unusual plan, promised much: two leading academics (Gary Francione and Robert Garner) prepared to make their respective cases with conviction and candour, followed by a lively debate between them, during which no stone need be left unturned. In prospect, then, was an opportunity for nuances to be clarified, misunderstandings dispelled and some common ground established. But while it proved to be an enthralling engagement, the apparent inability of one author to concede even an inch of ground to the other’s case meant that the divide between the viewpoints was, regrettably, no narrower at the end than at the beginning. [...]
Cancer Stem Cells in Breast Cancer
Authors: Takahashi Ryou-u , Takeshita Fumitaka , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Ono Makiko , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: March 2011

The cancer stem cell (CSC) theory is generally acknowledged as an important field of cancer research, not only as an academic matter but also as a crucial aspect of clinical practice. CSCs share a variety of biological properties with normal somatic stem cells in self-renewal, the propagation of differentiated progeny, the expression of specific cell markers and stem cell genes, and the utilization of common signaling pathways and the stem cell niche. However, CSCs differ from normal stem cells in their chemoresistance and their tumorigenic and metastatic activities. In this review, we focus on recent reports regarding the identification of CSC markers and the molecular mechanism of CSC phenotypes to understand the basic properties and molecular target of CSCs. In addition, we especially focus on the CSCs of breast cancer since the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy can lead to the enrichment of CSCs in patients with that disease. The identification of CSC markers and an improved understanding of the molecular mechanism of CSC phenotypes should lead to progress in cancer therapy and improved prognoses for patients with cancer.
The Proteasome Inhibitor Bortezomib Sensitizes AML with Myelomonocytic Differentiation to TRAIL Mediated Apoptosis
Authors: Dijk Marianne van , Murphy Eoin , Morrell Ruth , Knapper Steven , O’Dwyer Michael , Samali Afshin , Szegezdi Eva
Published: March 2011

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive stem cell malignancy that is difficult to treat. There are limitations to the current treatment regimes especially after disease relapse, and therefore new therapeutic agents are urgently required which can overcome drug resistance whilst avoiding unnecessary toxicity. Among newer targeted agents, both tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and proteasome inhibitors show particular promise. In this report we show that a combination of the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib and TRAIL is effective against AML cell lines, in particular, AML cell lines displaying myelomonocytic/monocytic phenotype (M4/M5 AML based on FAB classification), which account for 20-30% of AML cases. We show that the underlying mechanism of sensitization is at least in part due to bortezomib mediated downregulation of c-FLIP and XIAP, which is likely to be regulated by NF-κB. Blockage of NF-κB activation with BMS-345541 equally sensitized myelomonocytic AML cell lines and primary AML blasts to TRAIL.
Breast Cancer-Initiating Cells: Insights into Novel Treatment Strategies
Authors: Santilli Guido , Binda Mara , Zaffaroni Nadia , Daidone Maria Grazia
Published: March 2011

There is accumulating evidence that breast cancer may arise from mutated mammary stem/progenitor cells which have been termed breast cancer-initiating cells (BCIC). BCIC identified in clinical specimens based on membrane phenotype (CD44+/CD24−/low and/or CD133+ expression) or enzymatic activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1+), have been demonstrated to have stem/progenitor cell properties, and are tumorigenic when injected in immunocompromized mice at very low concentrations. BCIC have also been isolated and in vitro propagated as non-adherent spheres of undifferentiated cells, and stem cell patterns have been recognized even in cancer cell lines. Recent findings indicate that aberrant regulation of self renewal is central to cancer stem cell biology. Alterations in genes involved in self-renewal pathways, such as Wnt, Notch, sonic hedgehog, PTEN and BMI, proved to play a role in breast cancer progression. Hence, targeting key elements mediating the self renewal of BCIC represents an attractive option, with a solid rationale, clearly identifiable molecular targets, and adequate knowledge of the involved pathways. Possible concerns are related to the poor knowledge of tolerance and efficacy of inhibiting self-renewal mechanisms, because the latter are key pathways for a variety of biological functions and it is unknown whether their interference would kill BCIC or simply temporarily stop them. Thus, efforts to develop BCIC-targeted therapies should not only be focused on interfering on self-renewal, but could seek to identify additional molecular targets, like those involved in regulating EMT-related pathways, in reversing the MDR phenotype, in inducing differentiation and controlling cell survival pathways.
Differential Responses to Blood Pressure and Oxidative Stress in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Wistar-Kyoto Rats and Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats: Effects of Antioxidant (Honey) Treatment
Authors: Erejuwa Omotayo O. , Sulaiman Siti A. , Wahab Mohd Suhaimi Ab , Sirajudeen Kuttulebbai N. S. , Salleh Md Salzihan Md , Gurtu Sunil
Published: March 2011

Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis and/or complications of hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus. A combination of these disorders increases the risk of developing cardiovascular events. This study investigated the effects of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg; ip)-induced diabetes on blood pressure, oxidative stress and effects of honey on these parameters in the kidneys of streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Diabetic WKY and SHR were randomized into four groups and received distilled water (0.5 mL) and honey (1.0 g/kg) orally once daily for three weeks. Control SHR had reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased systolic blood pressure (SBP), catalase (CAT) activity, and total antioxidant status (TAS). SBP, activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) were elevated while TAS was reduced in diabetic WKY. In contrast, SBP, TAS, activities of GPx and GR were reduced in diabetic SHR. Antioxidant (honey) treatment further reduced SBP in diabetic SHR but not in diabetic WKY. It also increased TAS, GSH, reduced glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio, activities of GPx and GR in diabetic SHR. These data suggest that differences in types, severity, and complications of diseases as well as strains may influence responses to blood pressure and oxidative stress.
Delaunay Triangulation as a New Coverage Measurement Method in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Chizari Hassan , Hosseini Majid , Poston Timothy , Razak Shukor Abd , Abdullah Abdul Hanan
Published: March 2011

Sensing and communication coverage are among the most important trade-offs in Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) design. A minimum bound of sensing coverage is vital in scheduling, target tracking and redeployment phases, as well as providing communication coverage. Some methods measure the coverage as a percentage value, but detailed information has been missing. Two scenarios with equal coverage percentage may not have the same Quality of Coverage (QoC). In this paper, we propose a new coverage measurement method using Delaunay Triangulation (DT). This can provide the value for all coverage measurement tools. Moreover, it categorizes sensors as ‘fat’, ‘healthy’ or ‘thin’ to show the dense, optimal and scattered areas. It can also yield the largest empty area of sensors in the field. Simulation results show that the proposed DT method can achieve accurate coverage information, and provides many tools to compare QoC between different scenarios.
Potentiometric Electronic Tongue to Resolve Mixtures of Sulfide and Perchlorate Anions
Authors: Wilson Deivy , Abbas Mohammed N. , Radwan Abdel Latief A. , Valle Manel del
Published: March 2011

This work describes the use of an array of potentiometric sensors and an artificial neural network response model to determine perchlorate and sulfide ions in polluted waters, by what is known as an electronic tongue. Sensors used have been all-solid-state PVC membrane selective electrodes, where their ionophores were different metal-phtalocyanine complexes with specific and anion generic responses. The study case illustrates the potential use of electronic tongues in the quantification of mixtures when interfering effects need to be counterbalanced: relative errors in determination of individual ions can be decreased typically from 25% to less than 5%, if compared to the use of a single proposed ion-selective electrode.
Gyroscope Pivot Bearing Dimension and Surface Defect Detection
Authors: Ge Wenqian , Zhao Huijie , Li Xudong
Published: March 2011

Because of the perceived lack of systematic analysis in illumination system design processes and a lack of criteria for design methods in vision detection a method for the design of a task-oriented illumination system is proposed. After detecting the micro-defects of a gyroscope pivot bearing with a high curvature glabrous surface and analyzing the characteristics of the surface detection and reflection model, a complex illumination system with coaxial and ring lights is proposed. The illumination system is then optimized based on the analysis of illuminance uniformity of target regions by simulation and grey scale uniformity and articulation that are calculated from grey imagery. Currently, in order to apply the Pulse Coupled Neural Network (PCNN) method, structural parameters must be tested and adjusted repeatedly. Therefore, this paper proposes the use of a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, in which the maximum between cluster variance rules is used as fitness function with a linearily reduced inertia factor. This algorithm is used to adaptively set PCNN connection coefficients and dynamic threshold, which avoids algorithmic precocity and local oscillations. The proposed method is used for pivot bearing defect image processing. The segmentation results of the maximum entropy and minimum error method and the one described in this paper are compared using buffer region matching, and the experimental results show that the method of this paper is effective.
Paradoxical Interplay of Viral and Cellular Functions
Authors: Domingo Esteban
Published: March 2011

Some cellular editing functions can restrict the replication of some viruses but contribute to completion of the life cycle of others. A recent study has identified an isoform of the adenosine deaminase acting on RNA type 1 (ADAR 1) as required for embryogenesis, and as a restriction factor for a number of important RNA virus pathogens [1]. The dual implication of key cellular functions in the innate immunity against viruses, or, paradoxically, as mediators of virus replication is interpreted in the light of the concept of virus-host coevolution and tinkering proposed for general evolution by François Jacob decades ago.
Peatlands as Filters for Polluted Mine Water?—A Case Study from an Uranium-Contaminated Karst System in South Africa—Part II: Examples from Literature and a Conceptual Filter Model
Authors: Winde Frank
Published: March 2011

As the second part of a series of four, this paper reviews a number of case studies of natural uranium attenuation in peat, as well as underlying chemical mechanisms reported in literature. Based on this review, a generic, conceptual, model for peat to act as filter for dissolved uranium (U) is developed for guiding subsequent field investigations. The model consists of a chemical and an hydraulic component which is derived largely from data reported in literature as well as from limited field observations. For the chemical model component 10 different processes, each controlled by factors relating to water chemistry, have been identified to govern the attenuation of U in peat via a net balance of immobilization and remobilization. For the hydraulic aspect of the filter model, five different principal modes of U polluted water coming in contact with peat are discussed, focusing on the associated peat-water contact time as a crucial parameter controlling chemical U attenuation. Moreover, links between the two model components are discussed and, based on the integrated conceptual model, possible effects of natural and anthropogenic events on U attenuation in peatlands are outlined. Guided by the model, various site-specific field and laboratory investigations are finally designed to verify how far the identified generic factors and processes are indeed applicable to the Gerhard Minnebron Peatland.
Peatlands as Filters for Polluted Mine Water?—A Case Study from an Uranium-Contaminated Karst System in South Africa—Part IV: Quantifying the Chemical Filter Component
Authors: Winde Frank
Published: March 2011

This is the final part of a paper series on the ability of peat to filter uranium (U) from mining-polluted water. The focus is on the characterization and site-specific quantification of the chemical component of the filter model introduced in Part II. Based on U levels in different sediment-water systems of the study area that were analyzed in this paper, peat generally displays the highest geochemical U enrichment even though absolute U levels are relatively low. Results of batch experiments suggest that peat removes U from local mine waters exceptionally well, reaching a removal efficiency of close to 100%. However, almost all of the initially sorbed U is released again on subsequent contact with clean dolomitic water. A synoptic summary of the findings presented in Parts I to IV concludes the paper series.
In vivo imaging neurotransmitter function
Authors: Larisch R. , Vosberg H. , Beu M. , Hautzel H. , Wirrwar A. , Mueller H.-W. , Antke C. , Nikolaus S.
Published: March 2011

This article gives an overview of those small animal imaging studies which have been conducted on neurotransmitter function in the rat 6-hydoxydopamine (6-OHDA) model of Parkinson’s disease, and discusses findings with respect to the outcome of clinical studies on Parkinsonian patients.
Enquête sur les lieux de résidence des homosexuels masculins à Paris
Authors: Giraud Colin
Published: March 2011

Résumé Cet article explore la problématique des formes de présence homosexuelles en ville sous un angle spécifique et peu investi jusqu'à présent : celui du lieu de résidence des populations homosexuelles. À partir de données quantitatives originales, on se propose de décrire et de comprendre les spécificités de l'inscription résidentielle des gays dans le cas de Paris. Après avoir précisé les problèmes méthodologiques que pose une telle démarche, on montrera l'existence d'espaces résidentiels plus ou moins attractifs pour ces populations et l'on décrira les permanences et les changements en cours depuis une décennie. On soulignera enfin l'influence de l'âge, de la génération et de la position sociale dans l'explication et la compréhension des choix résidentiels des gays parisiens.
Vitamin C-Induced Oxalate Nephropathy
Authors: Lamarche Jorge , Nair Reji , Peguero Alfredo , Courville Craig
Published: March 2011

Although a multitude of syndromes have been thoroughly described as a result of vitamin deficiencies, over consumption of such substances may also be quite dangerous. Intratubular crystallization of calcium oxalate as a result of hyperoxaluria can cause acute renal failure. This type of renal failure is known as oxalate nephropathy. Hyperoxaluria occurs as a result of inherited enzymatic deficiencies known as primary hyperoxaluria or from exogenous sources known as secondary hyperoxaluria. Extensive literature has reported and explained the mechanism of increased absorption of oxalate in malabsorptive syndromes leading to renal injury. However, other causes of secondary hyperoxaluria may also take place either via direct dietary consumption of oxalate rich products or via other substances which may metabolize into oxalate within the body. Vitamin C is metabolized to oxalate. Oral or parenteral administration of this vitamin has been used in multiple settings such as an alternative treatment of malignancy or as an immune booster. This article presents a clinical case in which ingestion of high amounts of vitamin C lead to oxalate nephropathy. This article further reviews other previously published cases in order to illustrate and highlight the potential renal harm this vitamin poses if consumed in excessive amounts.
PINK1-Interacting Proteins: Proteomic Analysis of Overexpressed PINK1
Authors: Rakovic Aleksandar , Grünewald Anne , Voges Lisa , Hofmann Sarah , Orolicki Slobodanka , Lohmann Katja , Klein Christine
Published: March 2011

Recent publications suggest that the Parkinson's disease- (PD-) related PINK1/Parkin pathway promotes elimination of dysfunctional mitochondria by autophagy. We used tandem affinity purification (TAP), SDS-PAGE, and mass spectrometry as a first step towards identification of possible substrates for PINK1. The cellular abundance of selected identified interactors was investigated by Western blotting. Furthermore, one candidate gene was sequenced in 46 patients with atypical PD. In addition to two known binding partners (HSP90, CDC37), 12 proteins were identified using the TAP assay; four of which are mitochondrially localized (GRP75, HSP60, LRPPRC, and TUFM). Western blot analysis showed no differences in cellular abundance of these proteins comparingPINK1mutant and control fibroblasts. When sequencingLRPPRC, four exonic synonymous changes and 20 polymorphisms in noncoding regions were detected. Our study provides a list of putative PINK1 binding partners, confirming previously described interactions, but also introducing novel mitochondrial proteins as potential components of the PINK1/Parkin mitophagy pathway.
Citrate Anticoagulation for Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy in Critically Ill Patients: Success and Limits
Authors: Mariano Filippo , Bergamo Daniela , Gangemi Ezio Nicola , Hollo' Zsuzsanna , Stella Maurizio , Triolo Giorgio
Published: March 2011

Citrate anticoagulation has risen in interest so it is now a real alternative to heparin in the ICUs practice. Citrate provides a regional anticoagulation virtually restricted to extracorporeal circuit, where it acts by chelating ionized calcium. This issue is particularly true in patients ongoing CRRT, when the “continuous” systemic anticoagulation treatment is per se a relevant risk of bleeding. When compared with heparin most of studies with citrate reported a longer circuit survival, a lower rate of bleeding complications, and transfused packed red cell requirements. As anticoagulant for CRRT, the infusion of citrate is prolonged and it could potentially have some adverse effects. When citrate is metabolized to bicarbonate, metabolic alkalosis may occur, or for impaired metabolism citrate accumulation leads to acidosis. However, large studies with dedicated machines have indeed demonstrated that citrate anticoagulation is well tolerated, safe, and an easy to handle even in septic shock critically ill patients.
Electrochemical Reduction of Quinones in Different Media: A Review
Authors: Guin Partha Sarathi , Das Saurabh , Mandal P. C.
Published: March 2011

The electron transfer reactions involving quinones, hydroquinones, and catechols are very important in many areas of chemistry, especially in biological systems. The therapeutic efficiency as well as toxicity of anthracycline anticancer drugs, a class of anthraquinones, is governed by their electrochemical properties. Other quinones serve as important functional moiety in various biological systems like electron-proton carriers in the respiratory chain and their involvement in photosynthetic electron flow systems. The present paper summarizes literatures on the reduction of quinones in different solvents under various conditions using different electrochemical methods. The influence of different reaction conditions including pH of the media, nature of supporting electrolytes, nature of other additives, intramolecular or intermolecular hydrogen bonding, ion pair formation, polarity of the solvents, stabilization of the semiquinone and quinone dianion, catalytic property, and adsorption at the electrode surface, are discussed and relationships between reaction conditions and products formed have been presented.
Safety and Efficacy of Fingolimod in Treatment-Naïve Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Marriott James J.
Published: March 2011

Fingolimod was recently approved for use in the United States after two phase III trials confirmed its effectiveness in reducing disease activity in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. These positive results, coupled with the important fact that this is the first oral disease-modifying therapy, has lead to considerable enthusiasm amongst physicians and patients. However, fingolimod is associated with rare but serious adverse events. In addition, unlike conventional disease-modifying therapies, cardiopulmonary, ophthalmological and dermatological safety monitoring unfamiliar to both neurologists and patients is required before and during treatment. This paper will discuss these issues from the perspective of using fingolimod as a first-line disease-modifying therapy in treatment-Naïve relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients
Phototherapeutic Keratectomy Outcomes in Superficial Corneal Opacities
Authors: Arfaj Khalid Al , Jain Vandana , Hantera Mohamed , El-Deeb Mohamed Wagih , Rushod Adel Al , Nair Akshay G , Pineda Roberto
Published: March 2011

Purpose

Compare the effectiveness of Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) in treatment corneal dystrophies versus superficial corneal scars: visual outcomes, recurrence rate and safety profile.

Methods

PTK was performed in 51 eyes of 51 patients. Data regarding the indications for PTK, ablation depth, symptomatic relief, pre-and postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), spherical equivalent changes, recurrence and complications were analyzed. The indications for PTK in our study were classified into two categories – group A: patients with corneal dystrophies (n = 23) and the other group B (n = 28) with other indications.

Results

The average age of the patients was 47 years (±16.4). The mean follow up period was 15.16 months (±10.01 months). Post operatively, there were no significant complications. While the overall BSCVA in the patients improved from 20/41 (0.484) to 20/32 (0.645), group A showed improvement from 20/35 (0.561) to 20/29 (0.687), as compared to group B in which BSCVA improved from 20/47 (0.421) to 20/33 (0.611). The most common indication in group A was granular corneal dystrophy (n = 10) and the most common indication in group B was post traumatic/infectious corneal scar or opacity (n = 10). Eighty-six percent (n = 44) of all patients had alleviation of symptoms. Recurrence of symptoms was seen in 3 eyes of recurrent corneal erosions which required retreatment.

Conclusion

PTK is a safe and effective procedure. The outcome of this study suggests that PTK improves BSCVA. PTK appears to improve ocular surface health. Furthermore, PTK can be recommended to most patients with corneal dystrophies as a treatment modality prior to other more invasive procedure (viz. penetrating keratoplasty).
Electronic Medical Record Prompts for Lab Orders in Patients Initiating Statins
Authors: Alexander C. , Radford E.A. , Leeper J. , Carroll D.N. , Carroll D.G.
Published: March 2011

Background: The Institute of Medicine (IOM) reports that at least a fourth of all medication related injuries are preventable. Therefore, the IOM recommends healthcare organizations and providers implement electronic prescribing and clinical decision support systems in practices to aid in medication error prevention.

Objective: To assess the impact of noninstrusive-intrusive prompts from an electronic medical record on recommended baseline and follow up laboratory monitoring, CK and liver transaminase levels (AST and ALT), in patients initiated on statin therapy.

Methods: Hybrid nonintrusive-intrusive prompts for laboratory monitoring specific for statin initiation were implemented in the electronic medical record system in a community based, university affiliated family medicine residency program. A retrospective chart review was conducted to compare and assess laboratory monitoring in patients initiated on statin therapy from two specific time periods: a six month period prior to initiation of the prompts and a six month period after initiation of the prompts.

Results: One hundred seventy three patients met inclusion criteria. There were no significant differences in assessment of baseline liver transaminases and CK levels from the initial study period to the follow up study period. There were significant differences in follow up liver transaminase levels (18% vs 33%, p = 0.035) and CK levels (none vs 7%, p = 0.03) from the initial study period to the activated prompt interval.

Conclusion: A hybrid nonintrusive-intrusive specific prompts for laboratory monitoring triggered by statin initiation within an electronic medical record improved follow up lab assessments for liver transaminases and CK but did not improve baseline assessments of CK or liver transaminases.
Emergency managers, allocation of radar resources, and policy implications: The intersection of weather hazards, population, and technology
Authors: Rodríguez, PhD Havidán , Donner, PhD William , Díaz, PhD Walter , Santos-Hernández, MA Jenniffer
Published: March 2011

This article explores the end-user community’s knowledge and perception of severe weather events, warnings, and new radar technology. Particular attention has been paid to the advantages, problems, and limitations of current weather technology from the emergency manager’s perspective. Specifically, the authors focus on end-users’ recommendations regarding the allocation of the new radar resources that are being developed by the Engineering Research Center (ERC) on the Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA), which is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). In-depth interviews were conducted with members (n _ 50) of the emergency management community in Oklahoma and National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologists with diverse experiences in disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. On the basis of the results from the in-depth interviews, the authors generated seven broad categories that include the recommendations or factors that emergency managers and NWS personnel reported should be taken into account in the allocation of radar resources, including: (a) nature of the hazard event, (b) potential impact and outcomes of the hazard event, (c) lead time, d) false alarm rates, (e) population issues, (f) infrastructure, and (g) availability of other resources. Our findings suggest that respondents generally agreed that the type of hazard, its severity, and the potential impact and outcomes of severe weather events should play a primary role in the allocation of radar resources. However, there were some conflicts or concerns regarding the role that population size should and could play in the allocation of such resources.
Protection against liability for emergency medical services providers
Authors: Shin, JD, MPP Raymond K.
Published: March 2011

Emergency medical services (EMS) providers must often provide medical assistance without adequate time and resources. To encourage EMS providers not to be fearful of negligence lawsuits when they provide treatment, many states have enacted laws that protect them from civil liability. However, these laws provide immunity only under certain conditions. This article describes these conditions under which the immunity statutes generally operate.
The legal impact of emergency responders’ actions and decisions during interstate response and the need for a national immunity law
Authors: Standridge, PhD Student Steven E.
Published: March 2011

Law enforcement, emergency medical, and fire service agencies are being increasingly scrutinized as never before. The legal implications of litigations such as Kershner v Burlington, Sanders v The Board of County Commissioners of the County of Jefferson, Colorado, and the Cedar Fire lawsuits are clear. Decision makers and the agencies they represent are being held liable for their actions and decisions. This may necessitate the crafting and implementation by national policy makers of a more uniformed nationwide immunity law to help protect responders from the patchwork of state laws that currently exists. This is particularly relevant in an era of cross state, regional, and federal mutual aid response where emergency workers are exposed to uneven immunity laws that expose them to significant legal ramifications.
Disaster recovery and business continuity planning: Business justification
Authors: Brotherton, BA Heather
Published: March 2011

The purpose of this article is to establish the need for disaster recovery and business continuity planning for information systems. Today’s infrastructure and economic dependence upon information technology is highlighted as a basis for the requirement of disaster recovery and business continuity planning. This planning is stressed as a basic business requirement for any reputable information systems operation. The unique needs of information systems as well as the general background for the subject of disaster recovery and business continuity planning considerations are discussed. Contingency contracts, failover locations, and testing are recommended along with communication protocols.
1997–2007 CO trend at the high Alpine site Jungfraujoch: a comparison between NDIR surface in situ and FTIR remote sensing observations
Authors: Dils B. , Cui J. , Henne S. , Mahieu E. , Steinbacher M. , De Mazière M.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. Within the atmospheric research community, there is a strong interest in integrated datasets, combining data from several instrumentations. This integration is complicated by the different characteristics of the datasets, inherent to the measurement techniques. Here we have compared two carbon monoxide time series (1997 till 2007) acquired at the high-Alpine research station Jungfraujoch, with two well-established measurement techniques, namely in situ surface concentration measurements using Non-Dispersive Infrared Absorption technology (NDIR), and ground-based remote sensing measurements using solar absorption Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometry (FTIR). We show that, even if both techniques are able to measure free troposphere CO concentrations, the datasets are influenced by different source regions and therefore are subject to exhibit significant differences in their overall trend behaviour.
Influences of the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull volcanic plume on air quality in the northern Alpine region
Authors: Schäfer K. , Thomas W. , Peters A. , Ries L. , Obleitner F. , Schnelle-Kreis J. , Birmili W. , Diemer J. , Fricke W. , Junkermann W. , Pitz M. , Emeis S. , Forkel R. , Suppan P. , Flentje H. , Wichmann H. E. , Gilge S. , Meinhardt F. , Zimmermann R. , Weinhold K. , Soentgen J. , Münkel C. , Freuer C. , Cyrys J.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. A series of major eruptions of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano in Iceland started on 14 April 2010 and continued until the end of May 2010. The volcanic emissions moved over nearly the whole of Europe and were observed first on 16 April 2010 in Southern Germany with different remote sensing systems from the ground and space. Enhanced PM10 and SO2 concentrations were detected on 17 April at mountain stations (Zugspitze/Schneefernerhaus and Schauinsland) as well as in Innsbruck by in situ measurement devices. On 19 April intensive vertical mixing and advection along with clear sky-conditions facilitated the entrainment of volcanic material down to the ground. The subsequent formation of a stably stratified lower atmosphere with limited mixing near the ground during the evening of 19 April led to an additional enhancement of near-surface particle concentrations. Consequently, on 19 April and 20 April exceedances of the daily threshold value for particulate matter (PM10) were reported at nearly all monitoring stations of the North Alpine foothills as well as at mountain and valley stations in the northern Alps. The chemical analyses of ambient PM10 at monitoring stations of the North Alpine foothills yielded elevated Titanium concentrations on 19/20 April which prove the presence of volcanic plume material. Following this result the PM10 threshold exceedances are also associated with the volcanic plume. The entrainment of the volcanic plume material mainly affected the concentrations of coarse particles (>1 μm) – interpreted as volcanic ash – and ultrafine particles (<100 nm), while the concentrations of accumulation mode aerosol (0.1–1 μm) were not changed significantly. With regard to the occurrence of ultrafine particles, it is concluded that their formation was triggered by high sulphuric acid concentrations which are necessarily generated by the photochemical processes in a plume rich in sulphur dioxide under high solar irradiance. It became evident that during the course of several days, the Eyjafjallajökull volcanic emissions influenced the near-surface atmosphere and thus the ambient air quality. Following knowledge about health effects of air pollutants and volcanic plume compounds, it is assumed that the volcanic plume contributed to the overall exposure of the population and therefore may have had minor effects on the exacerbation of respiratory and cardiovascular symptoms.
SCIAMACHY stratospheric aerosol extinction profile retrieval using the OMPS/LP algorithm
Authors: Taha G. , Rault D. F. , Loughman R. P. , Bourassa A. E. , von Savigny C.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. The Ozone Mapper and Profiler Suite, Limp Profiler (OMPS/LP) algorithm is used to retrieve ozone concentration and aerosol extinction profiles using a series of 120 SCIAMACHY limb measurements collocated with SAGE II solar occultation events. The primary goal of the study is to ascertain the capability of the OMPS/LP retrieval algorithm to accurately retrieve the vertical distribution of stratospheric aerosol extinction coefficient so as to better account for aerosol effects in the ozone profiling retrieval process. Using simulated radiances, we show that the aerosol extinction coefficient can be retrieved from limb scatter measurements within 5% and a standard deviation better than 15%, which is more than sufficient to improve the OMPS/LP ozone products to be used as Environmental Data Records. We also illustrate the ability of SCIAMACHY limb measurements to retrieve stratospheric aerosol extinction profiles with accuracy comparable to other instruments. The retrieved aerosol extinction profiles agree with collocated SAGE II measurements on average to within 25%, with a standard deviation of 35%.
Nutrient control of N2 fixation in the oligotrophic Mediterranean Sea and the impact of Saharan dust events
Authors: Ridame C. , Le Moal M. , Guieu C. , Ternon E. , Biegala I. C. , L'Helguen S. , Pujo-Pay M.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. A better understanding of the factors controlling N2 fixation is a pre-requisite for improving our knowledge on the contribution of N2 fixation in the nitrogen cycling in the Mediterranean Sea. Trace-metal clean nutrient/dust additions bioassays (+P, +PFe, +dust) were performed at three stations located in the western, central and eastern Mediterranean Sea, in summer 2008 as part of the BOUM cruise. The main goals were to investigate the nutrient factor(s) limiting N2 fixation (uptake of 15N2) and to evaluate the potential impact of a Saharan dust event on this biological process during the stratification period. Initially, surface waters at the three stations were DIP-depleted (<10 nM) while the DFe concentrations were relatively high (from 1.2 to 2.3 nM) most likely due to atmospheric iron accumulation in the surface mixed layer. At all stations, Saharan dust input relieved the ambient nutrient limitation of diazotrophic activity as demonstrated by the strong stimulation of N2 fixation (from x2.3 to x5.3). The highest dust stimulation of N2 fixation was recorded at the station located in the eastern basin (x5.3). The responses of diazotrophic activity to nutrients addition were contrasted at the sampled stations suggesting a spatial variability of the factor controlling N2 fixation over the whole basin. At all stations, N2 fixation was not limited by Fe nor co-limited by P and Fe. At the western station, N2 fixation was DIP limited while at the eastern one, N2 fixation was first DIP limited then was limited by one or several chemical element(s) released by dust. Our results demonstrated that a Saharan dust input was able to relieve the successive on-going N2 fixation limitations. Very interestingly, at the station located in the central basin, N2 fixation was not limited by the availability of P yet it was strongly stimulated by dust additions (up to x3.1). A chemical element or a combination of several, released by the added dust may have been responsible for the observed stimulations of N2 fixation. These results indicated that Saharan dust pulses to the surface Mediterranean waters, in addition to P and Fe, could be a source of chemical(s) element(s) that are necessary for metabolic processes and therefore influence rates of N2 fixation.
Technical Note: Preliminary estimation of rockfall runout zones
Authors: Jaboyedoff M. , Labiouse V.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. Rockfall propagation areas can be determined using a simple geometric rule known as shadow angle or energy line method based on a simple Coulomb frictional model implemented in the CONEFALL computer program. Runout zones are estimated from a digital terrain model (DTM) and a grid file containing the cells representing rockfall potential source areas. The cells of the DTM that are lowest in altitude and located within a cone centered on a rockfall source cell belong to the potential propagation area associated with that grid cell. In addition, the CONEFALL method allows estimation of mean and maximum velocities and energies of blocks in the rockfall propagation areas. Previous studies indicate that the slope angle cone ranges from 27° to 37° depending on the assumptions made, i.e. slope morphology, probability of reaching a point, maximum run-out, field observations. Different solutions based on previous work and an example of an actual rockfall event are presented here.
Effects of storm events on the shelf-to-basin sediment transport in the southwestern end of the Gulf of Lions (Northwestern Mediterranean)
Authors: Palanques A. , Puig P. , Guillén J. , Durrieu de Madron X. , Latasa M. , Scharek R. , Martin J.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. Shelf-to-basin sediment transport during storms was studied at the southwestern end of the Gulf of Lions from November 2003 to March 2004. Waves, near-bottom currents, temperature and sediment fluxes were measured on the inner shelf at 28-m depth, in the Cap de Creus submarine canyon head at 300-m depth and in the northwestern Mediterranean basin at 2350-m depth. This paper is a synthesis of results published separately in different papers; it includes some new data and focusses on the subject of storms. It is the first paper in which simultaneous data about the effect of storms on the shelf, the slope and in the basin are shown together. During the winter studied, there were two severe E-SE storms with significant wave heights ≥ 7 m: one in December 2003 and one in February 2004. During these storms, coastal water was exported off-shelf producing strong near-bottom currents (up to 82 cm s−1) at the canyon head that resuspended sediment and increased the downcanyon sediment fluxes by several orders of magnitude. The suspended sediment flux increase in the canyon head was much larger during the February storm than during the December storm. At the deep basin site, particle fluxes also increased drastically (1–2 orders of magnitude) immediately after the February storm but not after the December storm. The reason was that the February storm was reinforced by dense shelf water cascading and was long enough (43 h) to transfer large amounts of resuspended sediment from shallow shelf areas to the canyon head and from there to the northwestern Mediterranean basin. Thus, in the western Gulf of Lions, severe winter E-SE storms occurring during the dense shelf water cascading period can significantly increase the transfer to deep-sea (> 2000 m) environments of shelf and slope resuspended material, including anthropogenic contaminants and organic matter.
Synoptic patterns associated with wildfires caused by lightning in Castile and Leon, Spain
Authors: García-Ortega E. , Trobajo M. T. , López L. , Sánchez J. L.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. The Iberian Peninsula presents the highest number of wildfires in Europe. In the NW of Spain in particular, wildfires are the natural risk with the greatest economic impact in this region. Wildfires caused by lightning are closely related to the triggering of convective phenomena. The prediction of thunderstorms is a very complex task because these weather events have a local character and are highly dependent on mesoscale atmospheric conditions. The development of convective storms is directly linked to the existence of a synoptic environment favoring convection. The aim of this study is to classify the atmospheric patterns that provide favorable environments for the occurrence of wildfires caused by lightning in the region of Castile and Leon, Spain. The database used for the study contains 376 wildfire days from the period 1987–2006. NCEP data reanalysis has been used. The atmospheric fields used to characterise each day were: geopotential heights and temperatures at 500 hPa and 850 hPa, relative humidity and the horizontal wind at 850 hPa. A Principal Component Analysis in T-mode followed by a Cluster Analysis resulted in a classification of wildfire days into five clusters. The characteristics of these clusters were analysed and described, focusing particularly on the study of those wildfire days in which more than one wildfire was detected. In these cases the main feature observed was the intensification of the disturbance typical of the cluster to which the wildfire belongs.