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Final Results (final + result)
Selected AbstractsSequential Treatment of Severe Postmenopausal Osteoporosis After Teriparatide: Final Results of the Randomized, Controlled European Study of Forsteo (EUROFORS),,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 4 2009Richard Eastell Abstract It is unclear which treatment should be given after stopping teriparatide therapy for severe osteoporosis. In a prospective, randomized, controlled, 2-yr study, we compared BMD effects and clinical safety of three follow-up treatments (anabolic with teriparatide, antiresorptive with raloxifene, or no active treatment) after 1 yr of teriparatide. Postmenopausal women with osteoporosis and a recent fragility fracture received open-label teriparatide (20 ,g/d) for 12 mo before they were randomized (3:1:1) to continue teriparatide (n = 305), switch to raloxifene 60 mg/d (n = 100), or receive no active treatment for the second year (n = 102). All patients received calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Changes in areal BMD from baseline to 24 mo were analyzed using mixed-model repeated measures. Daily teriparatide treatment for 2 yr significantly increased spine BMD by 10.7%. Patients receiving raloxifene in year 2 had no further change in spine BMD from year 1 (change from baseline, 7.9%), whereas patients receiving no active treatment had a BMD decrease of 2.5% in year 2 (change from baseline, +3.8%). At the total hip, BMD increases from baseline at 2 yr were 2.5% with teriparatide, 2.3% with raloxifene, and 0.5% with no active treatment; the respective changes at the femoral neck were 3.5%, 3.1%, and 1.3%. The study had insufficient power to assess antifracture efficacy. In conclusion, BMD increases progressively over 2 yr of teriparatide therapy in women with severe osteoporosis. After discontinuation of teriparatide, raloxifene maintains spine BMD and increases hip BMD. [source] Hard palate perforation: an unusual finding in paracoccidioidomycosisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2001Luiz G. M. Castro MD A 36-year-old black man presented to his dermatologist in May 1996 complaining of mucosal lesions in the mouth, as well as perforation of the hard palate. The lesions had started approximately 7 months before and had worsened gradually. Other complaints included odynophagia, dysphagia, mild dyspnea, and dry cough. The patient was in good general health, but reported a 3 kg weight loss over the previous semester. The hard and soft palate presented erythematous ulcers with a finely granulated base and irregular, but clearly defined margins. A perforation (diameter, 0.5 cm) of the hard palate was seen in the center of the ulcerated region (Fig. 1). Direct examination of 10% KOH cleared specimens showed typical double-walled, multiple budding yeast structures. Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) serologic reactions tested positive for double immunodiffusion (DI), complement fixation (CF) 1 : 256 and counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIE) 1 : 128. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections of oral lesions showed an ulcer covered by a fibrous leukocytic crust, with a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate, as well as multinuclear giant cells containing round bodies with a double membrane. Gomori,Grocott staining showed budding and blastoconidia suggestive of PCM. Lung computed tomography (CT) exhibited findings consistent with pulmonary PCM. Diagnosis of the chronic multifocal form of PCM with oral and pulmonary manifestations was established. Drug therapy was initiated with ketoconazole (KCZ) 200 mg twice daily, which led to clinical cure in approximately 2 months. Serum antibody values rose 30 days after institution of therapy (CIE 1 : 256; CF 1 : 512), peaking at day 60 (CIE 1 : 1024; CF 1 : 1024). Three months later the daily dose was reduced to 200 mg and titers declined slowly. The diameter of the perforation remained unchanged (Fig. 2). The hard palate perforation was corrected with a palatoplasty 27 months after initiation of drug therapy (Fig. 3). KCZ was discontinued when serologic cure was achieved after 34 months of treatment (DI weakly positive; CIE 1 : 8; CF not measurable). The patient was discharged 46 months after the first visit. Figure 1. Ulcers with a finely granulated base on the hard palate with irregular but clearly defined margins. A perforation (diameter, 0.5 cm) of the hard palate is seen in the center of the ulcerated region Figure 2. Clinical aspect after 2 months of oral ketoconazole 200 mg twice daily. Resolution of ulceration was evident, but the diameter of the perforation remained unchanged Figure 3. Final result of palatoplasty to cover hard palate perforation [source] Overexpression of malignancy-associated laminins and laminin receptors by angiotropic human melanoma cells in a chick chorioallantoic membrane modelJOURNAL OF CUTANEOUS PATHOLOGY, Issue 12 2009Claire Lugassy Background: As distinct from intravascular/lymphatic dissemination, extravascular migratory metastasis (EVMM) has been described as a potential additional mechanism of melanoma spread in which tumor cells migrate along the external surfaces of vessels. Angiotropic melanoma cells are linked to the endothelium by a matrix containing laminin. In addition, it has been shown that C16 laminin-derived peptide increases extravascular migration of human green fluorescent protein (GFP) melanoma cells along vessels in a chicken chorioallantoic membrane model (CAM). In this study, we have tested the hypothesis that expression levels of some genes related to lamimin and metastasis are differentially expressed in vascularized angiotropic melanoma areas vs. avascular melanoma areas from the same tumor. Design: C8161 human melanoma cells in a shell-less chick CAM assay were used to study EVMM associated with the presence of vascularized angiotropic melanoma areas. For both high-quality histomorphology and RNA preservation in paraffin-embedded tissue, we used a methanol-based fixative coupled with microwave-assisted rapid tissue processing as previously described. Using laser capture microdissection, angiotropic melanoma areas as well as avascular areas were microdissected. Using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR), six genes have been studied: LAMC2 (laminin ,2 chain), LAMA4 (laminin ,4 chain), ITGB1 (integrin ,1), ITGB3 (integrin ,3), RSPA (ribosomal protein), and MMP2 (matrix metallopeptidase 2). QRT-PCR data were normalized to human GAPDH housekeeping gene and values were compared against Human Total RNA. Final results were expressed as percentage of expression. Results: All tumors demonstrated a similar pattern, i.e. EVMM of angiotropic melanoma cells. The microdissected histopathological sections presented both angiotropic areas and avascular areas. All genes were overexpressed in angiotropic melanoma areas vs. avascular melanoma areas, especially LAMC2, LAMA4 and ITGB3 (respectively, 165.18, 208.86, and 483.69%). Conclusion: This study shows that several genes related to laminin are overexpressed in angiotropic melanoma areas vs. avascular melanoma areas. Since extravascular migration of melanoma cells along vessels has been demonstrated in the CAM model, taken together these results suggests that some laminins and laminin receptors may play a role in extravascular migratory metastasis. This model may represent a promising strategy to analyze differential gene expression in EVMM. [source] Using soft computing techniques for improving foot trajectories in walking machinesJOURNAL OF FIELD ROBOTICS (FORMERLY JOURNAL OF ROBOTIC SYSTEMS), Issue 7 2001Elena Garcia Walking machines have been investigated during the last 40 years and some basic techniques of this field are already well known. However, some aspects still need to be optimized. For instance, speed seems to be one of the major shortcomings of legged robots; thus, improving leg speed has been chosen as the main aim of this work. Although some algorithms for optimizing trajectory control of robot manipulators already exist, we propose a more computationally efficient method that employs fuzzy set theory to involve real dynamic effects over leg motion instead of an inaccurate mathematical model. In this article, we improve leg speed by automatically tuning the acceleration of legs. For this purpose, we define fuzzy rules based on experiments and we find the optimal acceleration for every given trajectory. A simple fuzzy inference system is used to compute the required acceleration. It is based on five rules using three linguistic variables. Final results show that foot acceleration tuning for straight trajectory generation is a suitable method for achieving accurate, smooth and fast foot movements. Also it is shown that under some conditions average leg speed can be increased up to 100% using the control methods herein proposed. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [source] University of life or academia?JOURNAL OF NURSING MANAGEMENT, Issue 6 2008A review of community matrons/case managers continuing professional development; accessing a post-graduate programme without meeting the current academic entry criteria Aims, To inform managers and gatekeepers of the pre-requisites for staff engaging in post-graduate level study. To acknowledge the support students in new roles require in clinical practice and continuing professional development (CPD). Background, A post - graduate course for case managers/community matrons was developed as a rapid response to government policy. As a result, candidates entered this programme with non-traditional requirements. However, this did not appear to hinder their success. Evaluation, Student entry data and their achievements on completion were collected and compared with another post-graduate course that did require standard entry academic requirements. Final results were analysed and a narrative obtained from students and mentors. Key issues, Gatekeepers should recognize the importance of past experience and motivation of candidates in relation to CPD and also the student's insight and self-awareness when accessing courses. Conclusion, Candidates accessing post-graduate courses can achieve learning outcomes at an advanced level when given the right support and are capable of undertaking the role of case manager/community matron . Implications for nursing management, The article is relevant in light of the current financial constraints for Trusts to ration the funding of CPD. Choosing the right person to attend the right course often depends on the manager's discretion and not necessarily the candidates' ability or motivation. It highlights the importance of not only recognizing the candidates' academic level but also their motivation to study, and with careful selection candidates should be allowed the opportunity to access higher levels of CPD. Fitness to practice is also an important aspect to consider on completion of a course and this can be achieved with the mapping of competencies in relation to the post holder's specific job. [source] Reconstruction of anterior through and through oromandibular defects following oncological resections,MICROSURGERY, Issue 2 2010Bernardo Bianchi M.D. Background: Resections of oromandibular squamous cell carcinoma involving anterior mandible, floor of the mouth, and the skin, lead to composite oromandibular defects that can be approached in several ways depending on the extension of the bone defect, of the soft tissue and cutaneous resection, the patient's general status, and the prognosis. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of 27 patients has been performed. The techniques described included single osseous or soft tissues free flap reconstruction, two free flaps or free and locoregional flap association. Results: Postoperative follow-up ranged from 12 to 120 months. Final results were evaluated with regards to deglutition, speech, oral competence, and esthetic outcome. Conclusion: Reconstruction of the anterior mandible is strongly indicated whenever possible. When the defect involves the tongue, the best results are provided by the association of two free flaps. Finally, the association of free and locoregional flaps ia a good option for external coverage reconstruction. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2010. [source] A retrospective evaluation of congestive heart failure and myocardial ischemia events in 14,237 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus enrolled in 42 short-term, double-blind, randomized clinical studies with rosiglitazonePHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGY AND DRUG SAFETY, Issue 8 2008Alexander Cobitz MD Abstract Purpose Retrospectively investigate potential associations between rosiglitazone and congestive heart failure (CHF) and, separately, events of myocardial ischemia. Methods Data from 14,237 individuals in 42 short-term, double-blind, randomized studies of rosiglitazone versus placebo or active diabetes medications were analyzed across seven treatment comparisons using an exact logistic regression model, adjusted for number of major cardiovascular risk factors and duration of exposure. Results CHF incidence ranged 0,1.27% (SAEs) and 0.12,2.42% (all AEs) with rosiglitazone versus 0.07,0.75% (SAEs) and 0.25,1.36% (all AEs) with control. Higher odds ratios (95%CI) were observed for CHF SAEs with sulfonylurea- and insulin-containing combinations: rosiglitazone monotherapy versus placebo, 0.25 (<0.01,4.75); rosiglitazone monotherapy versus sulfonylurea/metformin monotherapy, 0.23 (<0.01,2.14); sulfonylurea,+,rosiglitazone versus sulfonylurea monotherapy, 0.95 (0.01,75.20); metformin,+,rosiglitazone versus metformin monotherapy, 0.60 (0.00,8.28); metformin,+,rosiglitazone versus metformin,+,sulfonylurea, 1.04 (0.39,2.86); sulfonylurea,+,metformin,+,rosiglitazone versus sulfonylurea,+,metformin, 3.15 (0.35,150.52); insulin,+,rosiglitazone versus insulin monotherapy, 1.63 (0.52,6.01). Myocardial ischemia incidence ranged 0.75,1.40% (SAEs) and 1.49,2.77% (all AEs) with rosiglitazone versus 0.21,2.04% (SAEs) and 0.56,2.38% (all AEs) with control. Each comparison had an OR >1, with wide confidence intervals generally including unity. With data pooling, more events of myocardial ischemia were observed with rosiglitazone (2.00%) versus control (1.53%) (HR 1.30, 95%CI 1.004,1.69). Conclusions CHF incidence may be greater when rosiglitazone is combined with sulfonylureas or insulin. When data were pooled, more events of myocardial ischemia were observed with rosiglitazone versus control. Final results from RECORD will allow a more rigorous evaluation of the cardiovascular safety profile. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Effectiveness of Amitriptyline Versus Cough Suppressants in the Treatment of Chronic Cough Resulting From Postviral Vagal Neuropathy,THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 12 2006Anita Jeyakumar MD Abstract Objective: The objective of this prospective, randomized, controlled study (N = 28) was to evaluate the effectiveness of amitriptyline versus cough suppressants in the treatment of chronic cough resulting from postviral vagal neuropathy. Methods: Patients were selected based on a clinical history consistent with postviral vagal neuropathy and a history of an antecedent upper respiratory tract infection. All patients had been tried on antireflux medication (proton pump inhibitors) and had a negative chest x-ray before presentation. All were nonsmokers without a history of asthma. Patients on angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors were excluded from the study. All patients completed a pretreatment, validated cough-specific quality-of-life (QOL) survey. Patients were randomized by chart numbers to either 10 mg amitriptyline at bedtime or 10 to 100 mg/5 mL, 10 mL codeine/guaifenesin every 6 hours standing dose while awake. Both groups were instructed to complete 10 days of therapy and then asked to subjectively rate the reduction in the frequency and severity of their cough by 100%, 75%, 50%, 25%, or 0% as well as completing the posttreatment cough QOL questionnaire. Those patients experiencing a 75% to 100% reduction were recorded as having a complete response, 25% to 50% a partial response, and 0% as having no response. Final results and the cough QOL survey were recorded and used for statistical analysis. Results: A majority of patients in the amitriptyline group achieved a complete response on the initial dose of 10 mg. None of the codeine/guaifenesin group achieved a complete response. The data were analyzed using a logistic regression model, and amitriptyline was found to be a highly significant predictor of a greater than 50% response when compared with codeine/guaifenesin (P = .0007). The same data were analyzed using a proportional odds model and similar results were noted. Conclusions: Chronic cough can have a profound impact on the psychosocial function of patients. The most common causes of a persisting cough in the absence of infection or chronic smoking are laryngopharyngeal reflux, asthma, particularly the cough variant, allergy, rhinosinusitis, bronchitis, and medications, in particular angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. Currently, there are few effective treatments for cough with an acceptable therapeutic ratio and more selective drugs with a more favorable side effect profile are needed. This is this first prospective, randomized, controlled study comparing the effectiveness of amitriptyline versus codeine/guaifenesin for select cases of chronic cough resulting from suspected postviral vagal neuropathy. [source] Final results of European Remicade?ACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2009RESCU study [source] Soil erosion assessment using geomorphological remote sensing techniques: an example from southern ItalyEARTH SURFACE PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS, Issue 3 2010Sergio Lo Curzio Abstract The aim of this study is to assess of the distribution and map the geomorphological effects of soil erosion at the basin scale identifying newly-formed erosional landsurfaces (NeFELs), by means of an integration of Landsat ETM 7+ remotely sensed data and field-surveyed geomorphological data. The study was performed on a 228·6,km2 -wide area, located in southern Italy. The study area was first characterized from a lithological, pedological, land-use and morpho-topographic point of view and thematic maps were created. Then, the georeferenced Landsat ETM 7+ satellite imagery was processed using the RSI ENVI 4.0 software. The processing consisted of contrast stretching, principal component analysis (PCA), decorrelation stretching and RGB false colour compositing. A field survey was conducted to characterize the features detected on the imagery. Particular attention was given to the NeFELs, which were located using a global positioning system (GPS). We then delimited the Regions of Interest (ROI) on the Landsat ETM 7+ imagery, i.e. polygons representing the ,ground-truth', discriminating the NeFELs from the other features occurring in the imagery. A simple statistical analysis was conducted on the digital number (DN) values of the pixels enclosed in the ROI of the NeFELs, with the aim to determine the spectral response pattern of such landsurfaces. The NeFELs were then classified in the entire image using a maximum likelihood classification algorithm. The results of the classification process were checked in the field. Finally, a spatial analysis was performed by converting the detected landsurfaces into vectorial format and importing them into the ESRI ArcViewGIS 9.0 software. Application of these procedures, together with the results of the field survey, highlighted that some ,objects' in the classified imagery, even if displaying the same spectral response of NeFELs, were not landsurfaces subject to intense soil erosion, thus confirming the strategic importance of the field-checking for the automatically produced data. During the production of the map of the NeFELs, which is the final result of the study, these ,objects' were eliminated by means of simple, geomorphologically-coherent intersection procedures in a geographic information system (GIS) environment. The overall surface of the NeFELs had an area of 22·9,km2, which was 10% of the total. The spatial analysis showed that the highest frequency of the NeFELs occurred on both south-facing and southwest-facing slopes, cut on clayey-marly deposits, on which fine-textured and carbonate-rich Inceptisols were present and displaying slope angle values ranging from 12° to 20°. The comparison of two satellite imageries of different periods highlighted that the NeFELs were most clearly evident immediately after summer tillage operations and not so evident before them, suggesting that these practices could have played an important role in inducing the erosional processes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Performance optimization of object comparisonINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS, Issue 10 2009Axel Hallez Comparing objects can be considered as a hierarchical process. Separate aspects of objects are compared to each other, and the results of these comparisons are combined into a single result in one or more steps by aggregation operators. The set of operators used to compare the objects and the way these operators are related with each other is called the comparison scheme. If a threshold is applied to the final result of the object comparison, the mathematical properties of the operators in the comparison scheme can be used to derive thresholds on the intermediate results. These derived threshold can be used to break of a comparison early, thus offering a reduction of the comparison cost. Using this information, we show that the order in which the operators are evaluated has an influence on the average cost of comparing two objects. Next, we proceed with a study of the properties that allow us to find an optimal order, such that this average cost is minimized. Finally, we provide an algorithm that calculates an optimal order efficiently. Although specifically developed for object comparison, the algorithm can be applied to all kinds of selection processes that involve the combination of several test results. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source] Factors Affecting Australia's Refugee Policy: The Case of the KosovarsINTERNATIONAL MIGRATION, Issue 2 2001Jackie King This article seeks to explain Australia's refugee policy and to identify the various objectives and factors that influence the development of that policy. Australia's refugee programme seeks to: provide a humanitarian response and protection to individual refugees; participate responsibly in the international community; honour its Convention obligations; further the interests of the people of Australia; meet high standards of administration and; acknowledge as much as possible changes in refugee populations. In fulfilling these objectives, Australian governments must weigh and balance various competing factors. These include: humanitarian responsibility, international obligations, social, political, economic and foreign policy factors, as well as efficient administration. In balancing the relative importance of these factors, the Federal government hopes to fulfil all its refugee and humanitarian objectives. However, the pluralistic nature of Australian society and the often conflicting ideals associated with protection of Australia's interests and the preservation of the rights of refugees, means that fulfilment of these objectives is difficult. This article examines the Australian government's response to the Kosovar conflict, to assess the relative success Australia had in fulfilling its refugee policy objectives and identifying the various factors that produced the final result. [source] "Backdoor" Alternative Approach to Stenting of a Post-Anastomotic Coronary Artery Lesion via a Chronically Obstructed Right Coronary Artery after Failure to Stent through a Tortuous Free Internal Mammary GraftJOURNAL OF INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY, Issue 4 2007RICHARD Y.J. CHAN M.B.Ch.B. We describe the case of a patient who previously had coronary artery bypass grafting including a free right internal mammary artery graft anastomosed to a chronic totally occluded right coronary artery (RCA) proximally and distally and who presented with a high-risk acute coronary syndrome. Coronary angiography revealed the graft to be patent with a distal post-anastomotic culprit lesion within the posterolateral branch of the native RCA. Because of technical challenges, PCI could not be performed through the graft and the lesion was stented via the chronically occluded RCA instead, in a "backdoor" approach with a good final result. [source] Recent advances in the assessment of the ratios of cortisol to cortisone and of some of their metabolites in urine by LC-MS-MSJOURNAL OF MASS SPECTROMETRY (INCORP BIOLOGICAL MASS SPECTROMETRY), Issue 4 2009Alessandro Saba Abstract A previously reported method for the assessment of the ratio of tetrahydrocortisol (THF) + allo-tetrahydrocortisol (A-THF) to tetrahydrocortisone (THE) by HPLC-MS-MS has been significantly improved, in order to increase either ruggedness and reliability. That was achieved by the introduction of an on-line sample cleanup stage, which made use of a perfusion column as a solid phase microextraction (SPE) cartridge. The set of analytes was expanded, by introducing cortisol and cortisone, whose ratio supply additional diagnostic information. The response factors of both THF and A-THF has been checked, resulting almost identical, as well as the influence of the matrix on the calibration curves which, although different for water and urine, had similar effect on the ratios of interest. As a consequence, the calibration solutions can be prepared in pure water. The influence of several different storage procedures has also been tested, resulting in no substantial effect on the final result. Finally, the improved method has been used to run real samples from healthy volunteers, with satisfactory results. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Ordering the alternatives of a strategic plan for Valencia (Spain)JOURNAL OF MULTI CRITERIA DECISION ANALYSIS, Issue 3 2001Pablo Aragonés Abstract In this article we present an evaluation of the initiatives involved in a Strategic Plan for Valencia City (Spain) by applying a method to assist Multi-Criteria Decision-Making. The complexity of the case lies in the size of the problem, 47 alternatives and 10 criteria, as well as the need to reach a consensus on the final result. The method followed, which has been named PRES Multi-expert, can be generalized and applied to other complex cases. Thirteen experts have participated in the process, representing different political and social groups of the City, a group of analysts, formed by three lecturers from the Polytechnic University of Valencia, and a consultant, representing the City Hall of Valencia. The PRES algorithm was used to order the alternatives developed in 1992 by Gómez-Senent at this University. In this article we highlight the advantages of applying the Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Aid techniques and the importance of following a procedure to select the criteria, pondering on them and evaluating the alternatives. This procedure ensures that the parties interested in or affected by the decision take part in deciding what measures to adopt. The Multi-expert PRES method facilitates this participation and can be adapted to different types of problems. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: all roads lead to RomeJOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 5 2007Jose-Luis Gonzalez de Aguilar Abstract Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent adult-onset motor neuron disease characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons, generalized weakness and muscle atrophy. Most cases of ALS appear sporadically but some forms of the disease result from mutations in the gene encoding the antioxidant enzyme Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1). Several other mutated genes have also been found to predispose to ALS including, among others, one that encodes the regulator of axonal retrograde transport dynactin. As all roads lead to the proverbial Rome, we discuss here how distinct molecular pathways may converge to the same final result that is motor neuron death. We critically review the basic research on SOD1-linked ALS to propose a pioneering model of a ,systemic' form of the disease, causally involving multiple cell types, either neuronal or non-neuronal. Contrasting this, we also postulate that other neuron-specific defects, as those triggered by dynactin dysfunction, may account for a primary motor neuron disease that would represent ,pure' neuronal forms of ALS. Identifying different disease subtypes is an unavoidable step toward the understanding of the physiopathology of ALS and will hopefully help to design specific treatments for each subset of patients. [source] Comparison of Three Pebble Count Protocols (EMAP, PIBO, and SFT) in Two Mountain Gravel-Bed Streams,JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN WATER RESOURCES ASSOCIATION, Issue 5 2009Kristin Bunte Abstract:, Although the term "pebble count" is in widespread use, there is no standardized methodology used for the field application of this procedure. Each pebble count analysis is the product of several methodological choices, any of which are capable of influencing the final result. Because there are virtually countless variations on pebble count protocols, the question of how their results differ when applied to the same study reach is becoming increasingly important. This study compared three pebble count protocols: the reach-averaged Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP) protocol named after the EMAP developed by the Environmental Protection Agency, the habitat-unit specific U.S. Forest Service's PACFISH/INFISH Biological Opinion (PIBO) Effectiveness Monitoring Program protocol, and a data-intensive method developed by the authors named Sampling Frame and Template (SFT). When applied to the same study reaches, particle-size distributions varied among the three pebble count protocols because of differences in sample locations within a stream reach and along a transect, in particle selection, and particle-size determination. The EMAP protocol yielded considerably finer, and the PIBO protocol considerably coarser distributions than the SFT protocol in the pool-riffle study streams, suggesting that the data cannot be used interchangeably. Approximately half of the difference was due to sampling at different areas within the study reach (i.e., wetted width, riffles, and bankfull width) and at different locations within a transect. The other half was attributed to using different methods for particle selection from the bed, particle-size determination, and the use of wide, nonstandard size classes. Most of the differences in sampling outcomes could be eliminated by using simple field tools, by collecting a larger sample size, and by systematically sampling the entire bankfull channel and all geomorphic units within the reach. [source] Selection of recipient vessels in microsurgical free tissue reconstruction of head and neck defectsMICROSURGERY, Issue 7 2007Sukru Yazar M.D. The development of microsurgical techniques has facilitated proper management of extensive head and neck defects and deformities. Bone or soft tissue can be selected to permit reconstruction with functional and aesthetic results. However, for free tissue transfer to be successful, proper selection of receipient vessels is as essential as the many other factors that affect the final result. In this article selection strategies for recipient vessels for osteocutaneous free flaps, soft tissue free flaps, previously dissected and irradiated areas, recurrent and subsequent secondary reconstructions, simultaneous double free flap transfers in reconstruction of extensive composite head and neck defects, and the selection of recipient veins are reviewed in order to provide an algorithm for the selection of recipient vessels for head and neck reconstruction. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2007. [source] Urinary bladder hyperreflexia: A rat animal modelNEUROUROLOGY AND URODYNAMICS, Issue 7 2003Hassan Shaker Abstract In this work, we are presenting a rat animal model for bladder hyperreflexia after suprasacral spinal cord transection. Our aim was to standardize an animal model that can be useful in studying this condition. After standardizing the animal model in a pilot study, 26 female Sprague,Dawley rats were subjected to spinal cord transection at the level of T10 vertebra. Four animals were subjected to cystometrogram (CMG) 24 hr after spinalization and six rats 3 weeks post-spinalization. These CMGs were compared to that of six normal controls. The detailed description of the model presented in this manuscript, is the final result after several modifications. All the animals consistently developed hyperreflexia after an initial period of spinal shock phase. Expressed volume of urine continued to decrease until it reached a plateau after peaking at 1-week post-spinalization. The attrition rate reached 27.3% after several improvements in the animal model and was mostly from self-inflicted injuries. Post-operative complications included hypothermia, decubitus ulcers, hematuria, urinary tract infection in addition to the unexplained death of two animals. In conclusion, we believe that this animal model closely resembles the clinical condition of hyperreflexia and follows similar course. The relative low cost of this animal model and the easy maintenance makes it a valuable tool to study such a condition. Neurourol. Urodynam. 22:693,698, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] IR and UV laser-induced morphological changes in silicon surface under oxygen atmospherePHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI (C) - CURRENT TOPICS IN SOLID STATE PHYSICS, Issue 10 2005J. Jiménez-Jarquín Abstract We irradiated silicon (100) wafers with IR (1064 nm) and UV (355 nm) nanosecond laser pulses with energy densities within the ablation regime and used scanning electron microscopy to analyze the morphological changes induced on the Si surface. The changes in the wafer morphology depend both on the incident radiation wavelength and the environmental atmosphere. We have patterned Si surfaces with a single focused laser spot and, in doing the experiments with IR or UV this reveals significant differences in the initial surface cracking and pattern formation, however if the experiment is carried out in O2 the final result is an array of microcones. We also employed a random scanning technique to irradiate the silicon wafer over large areas, in this case the microstructure patterns consist of a "semi-ordered" array of micron-sized cones. (© 2005 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Two isomorphous crotonatolanthanide complexes: tetra-,-but-2-enoato-bis[diaqua(but-2-enoato)Ln],2,6-diaminopurine (1/2) (Ln = Dy and Ho)ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION C, Issue 11 2009Ana María Atria The title isomorphous compounds, tetra-,-but-2-enoato-bis[diaqua(but-2-enoato)dysprosium(III)],2,6-diaminopurine (1/2), [Dy2(C4H5O2)6(H2O)4]·2C5H6N6, and tetra-,-but-2-enoato-bis[diaqua(but-2-enoato)holmium(III)],2,6-diaminopurine (1/2), [Ho2(C4H5O2)6(H2O)4]·2C5H6N6, consist of [Ln(crot)3(H2O)2]2 dimers (crot is crotonate or but-2-enoate; Ln is the lanthanide cation), built up around inversion centres and completed by 2,6-diaminopurine molecules. The lanthanide cation is coordinated by three chelating crotonate units and two water molecules. One of the chelating carboxylate groups acts also in a bridging mode sharing one O atom with both cations and the final result is a pair of DyO9 tricapped prismatic polyhedra linked to each other through a central (Dy,O)2 loop. A feature of the structures is the existence of a complex intermolecular interaction scheme involving two sets of tightly interlinked non-intersecting one-dimensional structures, one of them formed by the [Dy(crot)3(H2O)2]2 dimers (running along [100] and linked by O,H...O hydrogen bonds) and the second formed by 2,6-diaminopurine molecules (evolving along [010] linked by N,H...N hydrogen bonds). [source] Adult self-sufficiency and social adjustment in care leavers from children's homes: a long-term assessmentCHILD & FAMILY SOCIAL WORK, Issue 1 2008Jorge F. Del Valle ABSTRACT This paper presents a study carried out in Spain that followed up 260 young people, the majority of them adults, who had been in residential care for significant periods. The follow-up takes place between 1 and 9 years after participants had left residential care, and assesses their level of social and work integration, as well as considering the incidence of problems related to marginalization and social exclusion. Furthermore, it analyses the reasons for the child being taken into care, the socio-family context, length of stay, changes in placement and other features or incidents in relation to the residential care. The data show that close to 15% have serious problems (drug dependence, delinquency, etc.), 25% receive help from the social services and the rest manage independently to a greater or lesser extent. We discuss the significance of these data, especially the relationship between the final result and the initial and process variables. [source] Cosmetic Color Improvement of the Nipple-Areola Complex by Optimal Use of Tretinoin and HydroquinoneDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 12 2002Kotaro Yoshimura MD background. A successful treatment to improve the color of nipple-areola complex (NAC) has never been reported, although the number of women seeking the more attractively colored NAC is not small. objective. To determine the effectiveness of our bleaching protocol for cosmetic improvement of the NAC. methods. The protocol was composed of two phases: bleaching phase (4,8 weeks) and healing phase (4,6 weeks). 0.2,0.4% tretinoin aqueous gel was applied concomitantly with 5% hydroquinone, 7% lactic acid ointment for bleaching twice a day. Tretinoin was applied to the NAC with a small cotton applicator, while hydroquinone was widely applied beyond the NAC area. After obtaining sufficient improvement in NAC color, the application of tretinoin was discontinued and hydroquinone alone was continually applied in the healing phase until the reactive erythema was eliminated. Fifteen female patients were involved in this study. results. The average treatment period was 16.6 weeks. Improvement of NAC color was obtained in 12 patients (80%) by the physician's estimation, and 11 patients (73%) satisfied with their final results. The treatment was repeated after a 1-month interval of tretinoin application in 4 patients: 2 desired further improvement in color, and 2 had the second course conducted to treat the postinflammatory hyperpigmentation on the surrounding mound induced by the first course. conclusion. This approach appeared to be most effective for cosmetic improvement of NAC color among treatments available so far. [source] Internet-based prevention for alcohol and cannabis use: final results of the Climate Schools courseADDICTION, Issue 4 2010Nicola C. Newton ABSTRACT Aims To establish the long-term efficacy of a universal internet-based alcohol and cannabis prevention programme in schools. Methods A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the Climate Schools: Alcohol and Cannabis Course. The evidence-based course, aimed at reducing alcohol and cannabis use, is facilitated by the internet and consists of 12 novel and curriculum consistent lessons delivered over 6 months. Participants A total of 764 year 8 students (13 years) from 10 Australian secondary schools were allocated randomly to the internet-based prevention programme (n = 397, five schools), or to their usual health classes (n = 367, five schools). Measures Participants were assessed at baseline, immediately post, and 6 and 12 months following completion of the intervention, on measures of alcohol and cannabis knowledge, attitudes, use and related harms. Results This paper reports the final results of the intervention trial, 12 months following the completion of the Climate Schools: Alcohol and Cannabis Course. The effectiveness of the course 6 months following the intervention has been reported previously. At the 12-month follow-up, compared to the control group, students in the intervention group showed significant improvements in alcohol and cannabis knowledge, a reduction in average weekly alcohol consumption and a reduction in frequency of drinking to excess. No differences between groups were found on alcohol expectancies, cannabis attitudes or alcohol- and cannabis-related harms. The course was found to be acceptable by teachers and students as a means of delivering drug education in schools. Conclusions Internet-based prevention programs for school-age children can improve student's knowledge about alcohol and cannabis, and may also reduce alcohol use twelve months after completion. [source] Phase transitions and heat conduction in post-glacial reboundGEOPHYSICAL JOURNAL INTERNATIONAL, Issue 2 2002M. E. Tamisiea Summary We have developed a method for including phase boundary conditions into post-glacial rebound models that allows for conduction of latent heat away from the boundary. This method returns the chemical boundary results if latent heat conducts away from the phase boundary too slowly to allow the transition to proceed, as is commonly argued. This is not necessarily the case, however. For example, the secular change of the geoid and the vertical uplift rates for phase boundaries with latent heat conduction can differ from the chemical boundary results by up to 10 and 15 per cent, respectively. When modelling the phase transition, we consider two scenarios: the latent heat is released either at a narrow boundary that separates the two phases or over a thick mixed region of the two phases. In the case where the phase transition occurs over a thick enough region (5,10 km), the final results are close to the results obtained by considering a phase boundary that ignores the release of latent heat completely. This thick boundary formulation also suggest that the phase boundaries could respond nearly instantaneously, changing both the elastic load and body Love numbers. However, we have not considered kinetics, the energetics of the mechanisms of the phase transitions, in this formulation. This work suggests a greater knowledge of the kinetics near equilibrium phase transitions is required. A naive calculation indicates that the kinetics will not be a significant factor for post-glacial rebound but will be a limiting factor for earth tides. [source] Accelerating adaptive trade-off model using shrinking space technique for constrained evolutionary optimizationINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN ENGINEERING, Issue 11 2009Yong Wang Abstract Adaptive trade-off model (ATM) is a constraint-handling mechanism proposed recently. The main advantages of this model are its simplicity and adaptation. Moreover, it can be easily embedded into evolutionary algorithms for solving constrained optimization problems. This paper proposes a novel method for constrained optimization, which aims at accelerating the ATM using shrinking space technique. Eighteen benchmark test functions and five engineering design problems are used to test the performance of the method proposed. Experimental results suggest that combining the ATM with the shrinking space technique is very beneficial. The method proposed can promptly converge to competitive results without loss of the quality and the precision of the final results. Performance comparisons with some other state-of-the-art approaches from the literature are also presented. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Comparison of global and local sensitivity techniques for rate constants determined using complex reaction mechanismsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL KINETICS, Issue 12 2001James J. Scire Jr. Many rate constant measurements, including some "direct" measurements, involve fitting a complex reaction mechanism to experimental data. Two techniques for estimating the error in such measurements were compared. In the first technique, local first-order elementary sensitivities were used to rapidly estimate the sensitivity of the fitted rate constants to the remaining mechanism parameters. Our group and others have used this technique for error estimation and experimental design. However, the nonlinearity and strong coupling found in reaction mechanisms make verification against globally valid results desirable. Here, the local results were compared with analogous importance-sampled Monte Carlo calculations in which the parameter values were distributed according to their uncertainties. Two of our published rate measurements were examined. The local uncertainty estimates were compared with Monte Carlo confidence intervals. The local sensitivity coefficients were compared with coefficients from first and second-degree polynomial regressions over the whole parameter space. The first-order uncertainty estimates were found to be sufficiently accurate for experimental design, but were subject to error in the presence of higher order sensitivities. In addition, global uncertainty estimates were found to narrow when the quality of the fit was used to weight the randomly distributed points. For final results, the global technique was found to provide efficient, accurate values without the assumptions inherent in the local analysis. The rigorous error estimates derived in this way were used to address literature criticism of one of the studies discussed here. Given its efficiency and the variety of problems it can detect, the global technique could also be used to check local results during the experimental design phase. The global routine, coded using SENKIN, can easily be extended to different types of data, and therefore can serve as a valuable tool for assessing error in rate constants determined using complex mechanisms. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 33: 784,802, 2001 [source] Early response as predictor of final remission in elderly depressed patientsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY, Issue 11 2009Rob M. Kok Abstract Background Several studies have attempted to predict the final response or remission based on improvement during the early course of treatment of major depression. There is however a great variation in cut offs used to define early response and in the optimal week to predict final results. Objective To compare different cut offs at different time points early in the treatment of elderly depressed patients. Method A 12 week randomised, controlled trial in 81 elderly inpatients with DSM,IV major depression comparing venlafaxine with nortriptyline. At least 20, 25, 30 or 50% improvement was analysed after 1, 3 and 5 weeks using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale. We plotted sensitivity against 1,specificity and calculated areas under the curve (AUCs). Results The highest percentage of correctly classified patients is found using at least 50% decrease as cut off in week 5, with acceptable sensitivity (81.8%) and specificity (87.4%). In week 5, the AUCs were 0.891 (95% CI 0.798,0.984) and 0.866 (95% CI 0.789,0.983) for the HAM-D and MADRS, respectively. Conclusions Combining the results from our study and the other studies addressing this issue, we suggest that the treatment should be changed in the elderly if after 3,4 weeks less than 30% improvement in depression score has been achieved. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Tuning the matching function for a threshold weighting semantics in a linguistic information retrieval systemINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS, Issue 9 2005E. Herrera-Viedma Information retrieval is an activity that attempts to produce documents that better fulfill user information needs. To achieve this activity an information retrieval system uses matching functions that specify the degree of relevance of a document with respect to a user query. Assuming linguistic-weighted queries we present a new linguistic matching function for a threshold weighting semantics that is defined using a 2-tuple fuzzy linguistic approach (Herrera F, Martínez L. IEEE Trans Fuzzy Syst 2000;8:746,752). This new 2-tuple linguistic matching function can be interpreted as a tuning of that defined in "Modelling the Retrieval Process for an Information Retrieval System Using an Ordinal Fuzzy Linguistic Approach" (Herrera-Viedma E. J Am Soc Inform Sci Technol 2001;52:460,475). We show that it simplifies the processes of computing in the retrieval activity, avoids the loss of precision in final results, and, consequently, can help to improve the users' satisfaction. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Int Syst 20: 921,937, 2005. [source] Concrete canal lining cracking in low to medium plastic soils,IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE, Issue 2 2002H. Rahimi sol plastique; gonflement; revêtement bétonique; Iran Abstract Failure of concrete irrigation canal linings in the form of cracking, rupture, uplifting and opening of joints, causes loss of water and money in many countries. Following the appearance of extensive cracking of concrete linings in one of the Shoeybieh sugar cane industry farms in the Khoozestan province of Iran, extensive research work was conducted to identify the main causes. In this paper, the final results of the research are presented. The testing program consisted of laboratory as well as field tests, including identification, chemical and mechanical tests of soil samples taken from the borrow pits and canal embankments. Dispersivity tests were performed using pin-hole and chemical methods. Swelling tests were conducted using the ASTM standard and ISSMFE method. The field test includes measurement of deformations of the concrete lining and embankment of an actual lined canal resulting from the filling of the canal with water. The canal was 60 m in length. The deformations were recorded by surveying the elevations of steel bars driven to different depths under the canal lining and at different points in the canal and its embankment sections. The results of laboratory tests showed the soil to have low to medium plasticity with a classification of CL-ML, having less than 1% soluble content, and being nondispersive. Swelling tests conducted by the ASTM and ISSMFE methods showed completely different results. The ISSMFE method resulted in a high free swell potential, while the ASTM method indicated a low to medium potential. The results of full-scale field tests were all in favor of the ISSMFE method. The greatest difference between the results of the two methods was found to be due to the different compaction methods used during construction of the canal, as well as the moisture content of the soil sample being prepared for the swell tests. The flocculent structure and lower compaction water content of soil samples in the ISSMFE method resulted in much higher free swell. The similarity between compaction methods used in the field and the static effort used in the ISSMFE method, as well as very low soil water content of the canal embankments during lining operations, were found to be the main reasons for swelling of the soil and the eventual cracking of the concrete linings. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. RÉSUMÉ L'écroulement du revêtement bétonique des canaux d'irrigation en forme de fissure, de la rupture, de la sous-pression et de l'ouverture des joints, est la cause de la perte d' eau et par conséquence des fonds publics de plusieurs pays dans le monde entier. Après avoir observé ce phénomène dans des canaux d'irrigation d'un grand projet de canne à sucre à Shoeybieh dans la région de Khozestan, située au sud de l'Iran, une équipe de recherche a été engagée pour trouver les causes principales de cetécroulement. Cet article présente les résultats finaux de cette recherche. Le programme consiste de deux types d'essai, en laboratoire et sur le terrain. Les échantillons du sol pour l'essai mécanique et chimique ont été pris dans des emprunts de terre et la digue du canal. Les essais de dispersivité ont été faits par les méthodes de pin-hole et de chimique. La méthode del ISSMFE et la standard del ASTM ont été utilisés pour les essais de gonflement du sol. Le mesurage de la déformation d'un canal revêté en béton et aussi de digue du canal a été fait par rempliz le canal avee de l'eau. Le canal avait une longueur de 60 m. La déformation a été observée en examinant les élévations à plusieurs points sur la profondeur du canal en dessous de la partie revêtée et aussi la digue du canal par un instrument spécifique. Les résultats des essais de laboratoire montrent que les sols qui ont une plasticité entre petite et moyenne situés dans la classification de CL-ML ayant moins d'un pour cent de contenude soluble sont non-dispersifes. Les essais de gonflement par les méthodes de l'ASTM et l'ISSME montrent des résultats tout à fait différents. La méthode ISSMFE montre un potentiel de gonflement assez élevé, tandis que la méthode ASTM montre un potentiel entre petit et moyen. Les résultats des essais en champs d'étude confirme la méthode ISSMFE. La plus grande différence entre le résultat de deux méthodes est à cause d'usage de plusieurs méthodes de compaction dans la période de la construction du canal. La structure floculée du sol ayant une humidité moins compactée dans la méthode ISSMFE montre un gonflement plus élevée du sol. Les méthodes similaires de compaction utilisées dans le champs d'étude et énergie statique utilisée par la méthode ISSFE, et aussi une petite humidité de digue du canal en période de revêtement sont les causes principales de gonflement et éventuellement de fissure. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||