bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Total knee replacement performed with either a mini-midvastus or a standard approach
Authors: Karachalios Th. , Giotikas D. , Roidis N. , Poultsides L. , Bargiotas K. , Malizos K. N. 
Published: April 2008

We report the clinical and radiological results of a two- to three-year prospective randomised study which was designed to compare a minimally-invasive technique with a standard technique in total knee replacement and was undertaken between January 2004 and May 2007. The mini-midvastus approach was used on 50 patients (group A) and a standard approach on 50 patients (group B). The mean follow-up in both groups was 23 months (24 to 35). The functional outcome was better in group A up to nine months after operation, as shown by statistically significant differences in the mean function score, mean total score and the mean Oxford knee score (all, p = 0.05). Patients in group A had statistically significant greater early flexion (p = 0.04) and reached their greatest mean knee flexion of 126.5° (95° to 135°) 21 days after operation. However, at final follow-up there was no significant difference in the mean maximum flexion between the groups (p = 0.08). Technical errors were identified in six patients from group A (12%) on radiological evaluation. Based on these results, the authors currently use minimally-invasive techniques in total knee replacement in selected cases only.
The functional relevance of neurological recovery after lumbar discectomy
Authors: Mariconda M. , Galasso O. , Secondulfo V. , Cozzolino A. , Milano C. 
Published: April 2008

We have studied 180 patients (128 men and 52 women) who had undergone lumbar discectomy at a mean of 25.4 years (20 to 32) after operation. Pre-operatively, most patients (70 patients; 38.9%) had abnormal reflexes and/or muscle weakness in the leg (96 patients; 53.3%). At follow-up 42 patients (60%) with abnormal reflexes pre-operatively had fully recovered and 72 (75%) with pre-operative muscle impairment had normal muscle strength. When we looked at patient-reported outcomes, we found that the Short form-36 summary scores were similar to the aged-matched normative values. No disability or minimum disability on the Oswestry disability index was reported by 136 patients (75.6%), and 162 (90%) were satisfied with their operation. The most important predictors of patients’ self-reported positive outcome were male gender and higher educational level. No association was detected between muscle recovery and outcome. Most patients who had undergone lumbar discectomy had long-lasting neurological recovery. If the motor deficit persists after operation, patients can still expect a long-term satisfactory outcome, provided that they have relief from pain immediately after surgery.
The long-term outcome of high tibial osteotomy
Authors: Akizuki S. , Shibakawa A. , Takizawa T. , Yamazaki I. , Horiuchi H. 
Published: April 2008

We carried out a prospective study of 132 patients (159 knees) who underwent closed-wedge high tibial osteotomy for severe medial compartment osteoarthritis between 1988 and 1997. A total of 94 patients (118 knees) was available for review at a mean of 16.4 years (16 to 20). Seven patients (7.4%) (11 knees) required conversion to total knee replacement. Kaplan-Meier survival was 97.6% (95% confidence interval 95.0 to 100) at ten years and 90.4% (95% confidence interval 84.1 to 96.7) at 15 years. Excellent and good results as assessed by the Hospital for Special Surgery knee score were achieved in 87 knees (73.7%). A pre-operative body mass index > 27.5 kg/m2 and range of movement < 100° were risk factors predicting early failure. Although our long-term results were satisfactory, strict indications for osteotomy are required if long-term survival is required.
Chemotherapy in Elderly Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Köhne Claus-Henning , Folprecht Gunnar , Goldberg Richard M. , Mitry Emmanuel , Rougier Philippe 
Published: April 2008

Abstract

Learning Objectives
After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Evaluate elderly CRC patients with regard to overall health, independence, and performance status using a comprehensive geriatric assessment.Assess the determinants for response to treatment and overall survival in elderly CRC patients who can be categorized as either fit, intermediate, or frail.Determine the optimal first-line chemotherapy regimen for the fit elderly polymedicated patient with CRC.
CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
Significant advancements in chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) have been achieved over the past decade, and the median overall survival duration is now close to 24 months with appropriate treatment. The most widely recommended chemotherapy regimens are based on the use of irinotecan or oxaliplatin in combination with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin; some data suggest further benefit with the addition of the targeted agents bevacizumab or cetuximab. Colorectal cancer primarily affects the elderly; however, much of the defining clinical research in this field has excluded subjects of advanced age or with a poor performance status, making it difficult for clinicians to interpret current treatment paradigms for their older patients. Most clinical trials that have included elderly patients document similar survival rates and toxicity profiles to those seen in younger patients. Moreover, survey data suggest that &gt;70% of elderly patients with cancer are willing to undergo strong, palliative chemotherapy. While these findings suggest that age itself should not determine candidacy for chemotherapy, it is important to note the great heterogeneity of the elderly population with regard to overall health, independence, and performance status. The use of a comprehensive geriatric assessment is recommended to evaluate chemotherapy appropriateness. The management of frail elderly patients and those with a short life expectancy should be focused on palliation, while fit elderly patients can receive aggressive therapy in a similar fashion to younger patients.
“If You Know You Exist, It’s Just Marketing Poison”: Meanings of Tobacco Industry Targeting in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community
Authors: Smith Elizabeth A. , Thomson Katherine , Offen Naphtali , Malone Ruth E. 
Published: April 2008

In the public health literature, it is generally assumed that the perception of “targeting” as positive or negative by the targeted audience depends on the product or message being promoted. Smoking prevalence rates are high among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals, but little is known about how they perceive tobacco industry targeting. We conducted focus groups with LGBT individuals in 4 US cities to explore their perceptions. Our findings indicated that focus group participants often responded positively to tobacco company targeting. Targeting connoted community visibility, legitimacy, and economic viability. Participants did not view tobacco as a gay health issue. Targeting is a key aspect of corporate–community interaction. A better understanding of targeting may aid public health efforts to counter corporate disease promotion.
Evaluation of an HIV Prevention Intervention Adapted for Black Men Who Have Sex With Men
Authors: Jones Kenneth T. , Gray Phyllis , Whiteside Y. Omar , Wang Terry , Bost Debra , Dunbar Erica , Foust Evelyn , Johnson Wayne D. 
Published: April 2008

Objectives. We assessed the efficacy of an HIV behavioral intervention adapted for Black men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods. We conducted serial cross-sectional surveys, 1 baseline measurement followed by initiation of an intervention and 3 follow-up measurements, among Black MSM in 3 North Carolina cities over 1 year. Results. We observed significant decreases in unprotected receptive anal intercourse at 4 months (by 23.8%, n=287) and 8 months (by 24.7%, n=299), and in unprotected insertive anal intercourse (by 35.2%), unprotected receptive anal intercourse (by 44.1%), and any unprotected anal intercourse (by 31.8%) at 12 months (n=268). Additionally, at 12 months, the mean number of partners for unprotected receptive anal intercourse decreased by 40.5%. The mean number of episodes decreased by 53.0% for unprotected insertive anal intercourse, and by 56.8% for unprotected receptive anal intercourse. The percentage of respondents reporting always using condoms for insertive and receptive anal intercourse increased by 23.0% and 30.3%, respectively. Conclusions. Adapting previously proven interventions designed for other MSM can significantly reduce HIV risk behaviors of Black MSM.
Interactions of Iron and Viscoelastic Surfactants During Well Stimulation: A New Formation Damage Mechanism
Authors: Al-Nakhli Ayman R. , Nasr-El-Din H. A. , Al-Baiyat A. A. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Viscoelastic surfactant-based acids have been extensively used over the last few years in matrix and acid fracturing treatments. Two main types of viscoelastic surfactants have been used; amphoteric and cationic. Once the acid reacts with the carbonate formation and the pH increases above two and the concentrations of calcium and magnesium ions increases, these surfactants form a long rod shaped micelles. As a result, the viscosity of the solution increases significantly. This will result in better acid diversion in matrix acid treatments and deeper acid penetration in acid fracturing treatments.
Viscoelastic surfactant-based acids were used in more than 600 successful treatments. The results, however from some treatments were below expectations. Analysis of the live acid used in one unoptimum treatment indicated that this acid contained nearly 10,000 mg/l total iron. It was clear that there were some interactions between iron and the viscoelastic surfactant used. Therefore, this study was conducted to better understand interactions between iron and various types of viscoelastic surfactants. All tests were conducted on live acid that contained 3 & 20 wt% HCl, 4 to 6 vol% surfactant, and 0.3 vol% corrosion inhibitor. Ferric chloride was added to the live acids at various concentrations from 0 to 10,000 mg/l.
Compatibility tests indicated that there are strong chemical interactions between iron (III) and all types of viscoelastic surfactants examined. A gel like material was noted at a certain iron concentration. SEM analysis indicated that the gel-like material contained iron. Also analysis of the iron in the supernatant using ICP confirmed this result. The critical iron concentration was found to be a function of the surfactant type. Extensive lab testing indicating that there is interactions between iron and the amide and amine groups present in these surfactants. Corrosion inhibitors contain amine and amide groups, and they did affect the interactions between iron and viscoelastic surfactants. These interactions resulted in the formation of the gel-like material that can cause sever formation damage. This paper will discuss the results obtained and give recommendations to avoid the formation of such damaging material.
The role of the soil seed bank in vegetation recovery on an oceanic island severely damaged by introduced goats
Authors: Weerasinghe Udayani R. , Akiko Shimizu , Palitha Jayasekara , Seiki Takatsuki 
Published: April 2008

Abstract.Question: Are the seed banks of an isolated subtropical oceanic island capable of naturally regenerating vegetation either with species of the historical forest community or with the existing grassland community after severe damage to the vegetation by goats?Location: Nakoudojima Island, Bonin Archipelago (Ogasawara Shoto), Japan.Methods: Soil samples were collected at 0–5 cm and 5–10 cm depths from seven plots in forests, grasslands, artificially matted areas and bare land. Soil seed banks were assessed using the seedling emergence method followed by the hand‐sorting of ungerminated seeds. We determined the size and composition of the seed banks in upper soil layers of plots and compared the seed banks to the standing vegetation.Results: A total of 12 220 seedlings belonging to 42 species from 20 families germinated. Total mean seed density (0–5 cm depth) was low in all plots within forest, grassland, and heavily degraded vegetation types (34.7 ± 8.6 to 693.5 ± 123.6, 58.6 ± 7.8 to 107.1 ± 10.0, and 1.1 ± 0.5 to 7.2 ± 2.3 seeds/m2, respectively). Forbs and graminoids dominated the seed banks of grassland and forest plots including Cyperus brevifolius, Gnaphalium pensylvanicum, Oxalis corniculata and Solanum nigrum, and these alien species comprised 90% of the density of the seed bank. There was little correlation between seed banks and standing vegetation of the island (Sørensen similarity coefficient values 0.26 to 0.45).Conclusions: If natural regeneration occurs from the seed bank of the island, future vegetation will not move toward the original forest community, because the seed bank is dominated by non‐native herbaceous grassland species. Though isolated, a few forest remnants with low species richness could be an important source for the natural re‐establishment of forest on the island; however, seed availability may be limited by either poor dispersal or pollination so that woody species will probably recover very slowly on this goat‐impacted island.
Use of trans sodium crocetinate for sensitizing glioblastoma multiforme to radiation
Authors: Sheehan Jason , Ionescu Adina , Pouratian Nader , Hamilton D. Kojo , Schlesinger David , Oskouian Rod J. , Sansur Charles 
Published: April 2008

Object
Adjuvant treatment with radiation (radiation therapy or radiosurgery) is a mainstay of treatment for patients harboring glioblastomas multiforme (GBM). Hypoxic regions within the tumor make cells less sensitive to radiation therapy. Trans sodium crocetinate (TSC) has been shown to increase oxygen diffusion in the brain and elevate the partial brain oxygen level. The goal of this study was to evaluate the radiosensitizing effects of TSC on GBM tumors.

Methods
A rat C6 glioma model was used, in which C6 glioma cells were stereotactically injected into the rat brain to create a tumor. Following creation of a right frontal tumor, animals were randomized into 1 of 4 groups: 1) TSC alone (animal treated with moderate-dose TSC only); 2) radiation (animals receiving 8 Gy of cranial radiation); 3) radiation and low-dose TSC (animals receiving 8 Gy of radiation and 50 μg/kg of TSC); or 4) radiation and moderate-dose TSC (animals receiving 8 Gy of radiation and 100 μg/kg of TSC). Animals were observed clinically for 60 days or until death. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was performed at 2-week intervals on each animal and quantitatively evaluated for tumor response. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed on all brain tumors. Survival differences were also evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results
On MR imaging, a statistically significant reduction in tumor size was seen in the group receiving moderate-dose TSC and radiation treatment compared with the group receiving radiation treatment alone. The rate of tumor growth was significantly less for the combination of TSC and radiation treatment compared with either modality alone. Median survival times for the TSC-only and the radiation therapy–only groups were 15 and 30 days, respectively. The 60-day median survival times for the groups receiving a combination of either low- or moderate-dose TSC with radiation therapy were statistically improved compared with those for the other treatment groups.

Conclusions
Use of TSC improves the extent of GBM tumor regression following radiation therapy and enhances survival. Radiosensitization of hypoxic tumors through increased oxygen diffusion may have clinical utility in patients with GBM tumors but must be explored in a clinical trial.
Biomechanical study of cervical flexion myelopathy using a three-dimensional finite element method
Authors: Kato Yoshihiko , Kataoka Hideo , Ichihara Kazuhiko , Imajo Yasuaki , Kojima Takanori , Kawano Shunichi , Hamanaka Daisuke , Yaji Kentaro , Taguchi Toshihiko 
Published: April 2008

Object
The goal of this study was to perform a biomechanical study of cervical flexion myelopathy (CFM) using a finite element method.

Methods
A 3D finite element model of the spinal cord was established consisting of gray matter, white matter, and pia mater. After the application of semi-static compression, the model underwent anterior flexion to simulate CFM. The flexion angles used were 5° and 10°, and stress distributions inside the spinal cord were then evaluated.

Results
Stresses on the spinal cord were very low under semi-static compression but increased after 5° of flexion was applied. Stresses were concentrated in the gray matter, especially the anterior and posterior horns. The stresses became much higher after application of 10° of flexion and were observed in the gray matter, posterior funiculus, and a portion of the lateral funiculus.

Conclusions
The 5° model was considered to represent the mild type of CFM. This type corresponds to the cases described in the original report by Hirayama and colleagues. The main symptom of this type of CFM is muscle atrophy and weakness caused by the lesion of the anterior horn. The 10° model was considered to represent a severe type of CFM and was associated with lesions in the posterior fand lateral funiculi. This type of CFM corresponds to the more recently reported clinical cases with combined long tract signs and sensory disturbance.
Solar steam reforming of natural gas for hydrogen production using molten salt heat carriers
Authors: Giaconia Alberto , de Falco Marcello , Caputo Giampaolo , Grena Roberto , Tarquini Pietro , Marrelli Luigi 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThe utilization of concentrated solar energy as external heat source for methane steam reforming has been investigated. Molten salts at temperatures up to 550°C can be used as solar heat carrier and storage system, and hydrogen selective membranes can be used to drive reforming reaction at lower temperatures than conventional (<550°C), with hydrogen purification achieved thereby. The combination of new technologies such as membranes and membrane reactors, concentrating solar power (CSP) systems, and molten salt heat carriers, allows a partial decarbonation of the fossil fuel together with the possibility to carry solar energy in the current natural gas grid. Different plant configurations and operating conditions have been analyzed using a mathematical model and AspenPlus simulator. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Heritability of fluctuating asymmetry in a human twin sample: The effect of trait aggregation
Authors: Johnson Wendy , Gangestad Steven W. , Segal Nancy L. , Bouchard Thomas J. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractFluctuating asymmetry is thought to reflect developmental instability, which may in turn indicate genetically influenced fitness. Controversy surrounding these claims has centered on the extent to which fluctuating asymmetry is heritable. Most studies have estimated its heritability to be very low using single‐trait measures. This study uses data from a human twin sample to demonstrate that the heritability estimate resulting from the aggregation of fluctuating asymmetry across multiple traits is non‐zero. This is the case even when the estimates of fluctuating asymmetries of the individual traits do not differ significantly from 0. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical delineation of Giuffrè–Tsukahara syndrome: Another case with microcephaly and radio‐ulnar synostosis with apparent X‐linked semi‐dominant inheritance
Authors: Gaspar Harald , Albermann Kurt , Baumer Alessandra , Schinzel Albert 
Published: April 2008

AbstractTwo families and three sporadic cases have been described so far with the combination of radio‐ulnar synostosis and microcephaly as main features. Some authors have discussed whether the first family reported by Giuffrè et al. [1994] and the second family described by Tsukahara et al. [1995] had the same syndrome. Although there is phenotypic variability among the described cases (especially with respect to facial dysmorphisms and mental retardation), the clinical patterns do not seem to be clearly distinguishable from each other. We describe another family with apparent X‐linked semi‐dominant inheritance with milder features in the female patient due to skewed X‐inactivation. From a clinical synopsis, we consider the Giuffrè–Tsukahara syndrome as one genetic entity, which is characterized by the association of microcephaly and radio‐ulnar synostosis, mental retardation in male patients and variable minor features. Patients with the Giuffrè–Tsukahara syndrome do not present with a characteristic pattern of facial features. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cryptic 17q22 deletion in a boy with a t(10;17)(p15.3;q22) translocation, multiple synostosis syndrome 1, and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
Authors: Shimizu Reiko , Mitsui Norimasa , Mori Yasuhiro , Cho Shogen , Yamamori Shunji , Osawa Makiko , Ohashi Hirofumi 
Published: April 2008

AbstractWe report on a boy who had multiple synostosis syndrome 1, an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by progressive symphalangism, multiple joint fusions, conductive deafness, and mild facial dysmorphism. In addition the boy developed delay of puberty, bone age, and closure of the epiphyseal lines of long bones with tall stature. These findings and decreased plasma LH and FSH levels at age 19 years were compatible with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. G‐banded chromosomes showed a balanced translocation t(10;17)(p15.3;q22). Chromosomal FISH analysis, using a series of BAC clones surrounding the translocation breakpoints, detected a 2.2–3.9 Mb deletion at 17q22. The deletion encompassed NOG, a gene responsible for multiple synostosis syndrome 1. It was assumed that a gene for pituitary secretion of gonoadotropic hormones was deleted at the 17q22 segment. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association study of the estrogen receptor alpha gene (ESR1) and childhood‐onset mood disorders
Authors: Mill Jonathan , Kiss Eniko , Baji Ildiko , Kapornai Krisztina , Daróczy Gabriella , Vetró Ágnes , Kennedy James , Kovacs Maria , Barr Cathy 
Published: April 2008

AbstractDepressive disorders are heterogeneous psychiatric disorders involving deficits in cognitive, psychomotor, and emotional processing. Depressive disorders have a significant genetic component, with severe, recurrent and early‐onset forms demonstrating elevated heritability. In this study we genotyped eleven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) spanning the estrogen receptor alpha gene (ESR1) in a large family‐based childhood‐onset mood disorder (COMD) sample. None of the individual SNP or global haplotype analyses was significant in the entire COMD sample, but haplotype analysis of three SNPs in strong linkage disequilibrium (rs746432, rs2077647, and rs532010) uncovered an association with COMD, specifically in females. Our data are consistent with previous studies demonstrating a female‐specific association between ESR1 and neurobehavioral phenotypes. These results suggest the existence of sex‐specific etiological factors in depressive disorders, related to estrogen, with onset in childhood. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.