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Better Results (good + result)
Kinds of Better Results Selected AbstractsEffect of vitamin E supplementation in patients with ataxia with vitamin E deficiencyEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 5 2001S. Gabsi Ataxia with vitamin E (Vit E) defciency (AVED) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations of the , tocopherol transfer protein gene. The Friedreich ataxia phenotype is the most frequent clinical presentation. In AVED patients, serum Vit E levels are very low in the absence of intestinal malabsorption. As Vit E is a major antioxidant agent, Vit E deficiency is supposed to be responsible for the pathological process. Twenty-four AVED patients were fully investigated (electromyography, nerve conduction velocity (NVC) studies, somatosensory evoked potentials, cerebral computed tomography scan, sural nerve biopsy, genetic studies) and supplemented with Vit E (800 mg daily) during a 1-year period. Clinical evaluation was mainly based on the Ataxia Rating Scale (ARS) for cerebellar ataxia assessment and serum Vit E levels were monitored. Serum Vit E levels normalized and ARS scores decreased moderately but significantly suggesting clinical improvement. Better results were noted with mean disease duration , 15 years. Reflexes remained abolished and posterior column disturbances unchanged. Vitamin E supplementation in AVED patients stabilizes the neurological signs and can lead to mild improvement of cerebellar ataxia, especially in early stages of the disease. [source] Modification of polycondensation of isophthalic and terephthalic acids and bisphenols with tosyl chloride/dimethylformamide/pyridine by the presence of additivesJOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE (IN TWO SECTIONS), Issue 7 2003Fukuji Higashi Abstract In copolycondensation with 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane (BPP) and bisphenols (BPs) containing various alkylidene linkages, the associative interactions between BP moieties in the resulting oligomers most likely affected the reaction. To modify the interactions to favorably control the reaction, several additives were examined in a two-stage polycondensation of an equimolar mixture of isophthalic acid and terephthalic acid, first with BPP (50 mol %) and next with additional BPP. Of additives used, diphenylmethane of an equivalent to BPP in the preformed oligomers was most effective. The results are discussed in terms of the distributions of resulting oligomers prepared at 70% extent of reaction. Better results were obtained when the distributions showed profiles similar to the theoretical one calculated on the basis that the reactivity of the oligomers is the same independent of their chain lengths. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 970,975, 2003 [source] Determination of pentachlorophenol and tribromophenol in sawdust by ultrasound-assisted extraction and MEKCJOURNAL OF SEPARATION SCIENCE, JSS, Issue 6-7 2008Claudia Mardones Abstract An ultrasonic bar-assisted extraction and CE separation procedure for the determination of pentachlorophenol (PCP) and 2,4,6-tribromophenol (TBP) residues in sawdust was developed and applied. For this purpose, micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MEKC) was used and compared with a GC/MS methodology. This methodology allowed the quantification of PCP and TBP in a concentration range of 2.5,12.0 mg/kg for TBP and 2.8,12.0 mg/kg for PCP. Different sample treatment processes were evaluated in order to extract these compounds from sawdust. Better results were obtained when the residues were extracted with ultrasound-assisted hexane, filtered, evaporated, dissolved in Na2CO3, and injected into the CE equipment. The optimal option for GC/MS was extraction with Na2CO3 followed by a derivation using acetic anhydride and liquid,liquid extraction with hexane. This method allowed the quantification of TBP and PCP in sawdust in a concentration range of 0.19,12.00 mg/kg and 0.14,12.00 mg/kg, respectively. The CE method was compared with the GC/MS as reference method. The results were shown to be statistically similar by both methods for PCP as well as for TBP. [source] Usability in space science instrumentationASTRONOMY & GEOPHYSICS, Issue 6 2009Article first published online: 23 NOV 200 The scientists who will eventually use data from a space instrument may not be the most important people to consider during the development programme, argues Alec McCalden. Better results could come from treating instrument usability as a design parameter from the start. [source] Use of Physicochemical Tools to Determine the Choice of Optimal Enzyme: Stabilization of d -Amino Acid OxidaseBIOTECHNOLOGY PROGRESS, Issue 3 2003Lorena Betancor An evaluation of the stability of several forms (including soluble and two immobilized preparations) of d -amino acid oxidases from Trigonopsis variabilis (TvDAAO) and Rhodotorula gracilis (RgDAAO) is presented here. Initially, both soluble enzymes become inactivated via subunit dissociation, and the most thermostable enzyme seemed to be TvDAAO, which was 3,4 times more stable than RgDAAO at a protein concentration of 30 ,g/mL. Immobilization on poorly activated supports was unable to stabilize the enzyme, while highly activated supports improved the enzyme stability. Better results were obtained when using highly activated glyoxyl agarose supports than when glutaraldehyde was used. Thus, multisubunit immobilization on highly activated glyoxyl agarose dramatically improved the stability of RgDAAO (by ca. 15 000-fold) while only marginally improving the stability of TvDAAO (by 15,20-fold), at a protein concentration of 6.7 ,g/mL. Therefore, the optimal immobilized RgDAAO was much more stable than the optimal immobilized TvDAAO at this enzyme concentration. The lower stabilization effect on TvDAAO was associated with the inactivation of this enzyme by FAD dissociation that was not prevented by immobilization. Finally, nonstabilized RgDAAO was marginally more stable in the presence of H2O2 than TvDAAO, but after stabilization by multisubunit immobilization, its stability became 10 times higher than that of TvDAAO. Therefore, the most stable DAAO preparation and the optimal choice for an industrial application seems to be RgDAAO immobilized on glyoxyl agarose. [source] Randomized clinical trial comparing conservative and surgical treatment of neurogenic faecal incontinenceBRITISH JOURNAL OF SURGERY (NOW INCLUDES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY), Issue 9 2004A. Österberg Background: The treatment of choice in idiopathic (neurogenic) faecal incontinence is controversial. In a randomized study levatorplasty was compared with anal plug electrostimulation of the pelvic floor with respect to functional outcome and physiological variables. Methods: Thirty-one patients underwent levatorplasty and 28 anal plug electrostimulation of the pelvic floor over 3 years. The results were evaluated at 3, 12 and 24 months after completion of treatment by means of a validated questionnaire and anorectal manometry and manovolumetry. Results: Incontinence scores were significantly reduced during the entire observation period in both groups (P < 0·001) as was the use of pads (P = 0·003 to P < 0·001). The proportion of patients reporting improvement in physical and social handicap was greater in the levatorplasty group after 3, 12 and 24 months (P = 0·036 to P < 0·001). No significant changes in physiological variables were observed in either group. Conclusion: Better results were obtained with levatorplasty than with anal plug electrostimulation of the pelvic floor in patients with idiopathic (neurogenic) faecal incontinence. Levatorplasty should be therefore be considered the treatment of choice for this condition. Copyright © 2004 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Design of an Ultrasound Contrast Agent for Myocardial PerfusionECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Issue 2000Michel Schneider Ph.D. Myocardial contrast echography (MCE) has been a major research objective in cardiovascular ultrasound for almost two decades. The design of a contrast agent fulfilling the needs of MCE requires taking into consideration a number of points: a basic decision has to be made whether a deposit agent or a free-flowing agent would be more appropriate and whether an agent active at low/medium mechanical index (MI) is preferable to an agent active only at high MI; only a small percentage of the cardiac output enters the coronary microcirculation, which means that highly sensitive bubble detection methods, such as harmonic imaging or pulse inversion, are needed; the low velocity of blood in the microcirculation that leads to extensive bubble destruction during imaging means that intermittent imaging and/or an agent active at low MI is (are) required; the duration of the contrast effect must be sufficient to allow a complete examination and is affected by the rate of contrast administration; the performance of the contrast agent should not be equipment-dependent. The ultimate goal in MCE is to be able to quantify blood flow in the various segments to determine if adequate oxygenation is achieved. Ultrasound-mediated bubble destruction followed by the measurement of bubble replenishment kinetics opens new perspectives for quantification. SonoVue is a free-flowing ultrasound contrast agent made of sulphur hexafluoride microbubbles stabilized by a highly elastic phospholipid monolayer. SonoVue is able to produce myocardial opacification at a wide range of acoustic pressures and in particular at Mis as low as 0.1. Its performance is not equipment-dependent. Good results for myocardial opacification have been observed in all animal species tested (dogs, minipigs, rabbits), using continuous as well as intermittent imaging. Trials are in progress to demonstrate the clinical utility of SonoVue for rest and stress perfusion studies, in particular for the diagnosis of CAD, the detection of myocardial infarction, the assessment of the success of interventions and myocardial viability, and the detection of hibernating myocardium. [source] Effects of an adapted intravenous amiodarone treatment protocol in horses with atrial fibrillationEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 4 2007D. de CLERCQ Summary Reason for performing study: Good results have been obtained with a human amiodarone (AD) i.v. protocol in horses with chronic atrial fibrillation (AF) and a pharmacokinetic study is required for a specific i.v. amiodarone treatment protocol for horses. Objectives: To study the efficacy of this pharmacokinetic based i.v. AD protocol in horses with chronic AF. Methods: Six horses with chronic AF were treated with an adapted AD infusion protocol. The protocol consisted of 2 phases with a loading dose followed by a maintenance infusion. In the first phase, horses received an infusion of 6.52 mg AD/kg bwt/h for 1 h followed by 1.1 mg/kg bwt/h for 47 h. In the second phase, horses received a second loading dose of 3.74 mg AD/kg bwt/h for 1 h followed by 1.31 mg/kg bwt/h for 47 h. Clinical signs were monitored, a surface ECG and an intra-atrial electrogram were recorded. AD treatment was discontinued when conversion or any side effects were observed. Results: Three of the 6 horses cardioverted successfully without side effects. The other 3 horses did not convert and showed adverse effects, including diarrhoea. In the latter, there were no important circulatory problems, but the diarrhoea continued for 10,14 days. The third horse had to be subjected to euthanasia because a concomitant Salmonella infection worsened the clinical signs. Conclusion: The applied treatment protocol based upon pharmacokinetic data achieved clinically relevant concentrations of AD and desethylamiodarone. Potential relevance: Intravenous AD has the potential to be an alternative pharmacological treatment for AF in horses, although AD may lead to adverse drug effects, particularly with cumulative dosing. [source] Diels,Alder Reactions of 2,-Hydroxychalcones with ortho -Benzoquino-dimethane: A New Synthesis of 3-Aryl-2-naphthyl 2-Hydroxyphenyl KetonesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 11 2006Cristela M. Brito Abstract Diels,Alder reactions of the 2,-hydroxychalcones 1a,e with ortho -benzoquinodimethane (3) yielded the 3-aryl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-naphthyl 2-hydroxyphenyl ketones 4a,e in good yields. The dehydrogenation of the cycloadducts 4a,e to 3-aryl-2-naphthyl 2-hydroxyphenyl ketones 5a,e was studied. Good results were obtained when DDQ was used as oxidant and microwave irradiation as energy source. Several benzoxanthone derivatives were also obtained as minor products. Structures of all new compounds were established by extensive NMR studies. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006) [source] A robust air-gap flux estimation for speed sensorless vector control of double-star induction machineINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADAPTIVE CONTROL AND SIGNAL PROCESSING, Issue 6 2004M.F. Mimouni Abstract The paper presents a new direct field-oriented control (DFOC) for double-star induction machine (DSIM) drives using the stator currents. First, we propose a new algorithm to estimate air-gap flux for speed sensorless air-gap flux orientation control. Compared to the previous DFOC schemes the new one is independent from any motor parameter variation, specially on the stator resistance. Then, the DFOC is associated with a low pass filter (LPF) to solve the dc drift problems caused by the pure integration of air-gap flux. In the present paper, the rotor resistance is estimated by an algorithm using Lyapunov theory. Good results have been obtained in the benchmark simulations. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Botulinum toxin for periocular lines: the single-injection techniqueJOURNAL OF COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2004Giovanni Salti Summary Background, Botulinum is a well established treatment for facial wrinkles and hyperfunctional lines, including those at the periocular area. Objective, To illustrate a simple periocular injection technique. It differs from the usual one since it is a single injection, instead of several. Methods, Thirty consecutive patients were treated with this technique on one side, and the standard multipuncture technique on the contralateral side. Each patient, being their own control, received 10,12 Botox units to each side. The orbicularis oculi muscle was injected using two different types of needles: a standard 30 g 13 mm needle for the multipunctured side and a 30 g 25 mm needle for the single puncture side. Follow up assessments were made on days 7, 15 and 120. Results, Good results were achieved in all patients. No relevant cosmetic difference was noticeable between the two sides. The pharmacological effect lasted about 5 months, with no difference between the two techniques. Both techniques were safe and caused the same amount of bruising. The single injection was preferred by patients. The single-injection technique, on the other hand, requires more skill and experience by the operator. Conclusions, The single-injection technique for periocular lines is a useful alternative to the standard multipuncture technique. It reduces patients' discomfort. [source] Rapid contrasting of ultrathin sections using microwave irradiation with heat dissipationJOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY, Issue 2 2001F. Hernández-Chavarría The use of microwave irradiation (MWI) to accelerate fixation, dehydration and contrasting (staining) for electron microscopy has been applied to the development of rapid methods to process biological samples in electron microscopy. A simple explanation is that the reduced time in those procedures is due to heating. In this paper we propose a contrasting method for thin sections that avoids the thermal effects of MWI. Grids with thin sections of mouse kidney, the dinoflagellate Alexandrium monilatum, spermatophores of the fly Archicepsis diversiformis, the bacteria Acinetobacter calcoaceticum and Enterobacter cloacae were placed into Beem capsules and stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate, while immersed in an ice-water bath, and irradiated for periods ranging from 30 s to 2 min. After each contrasting procedure, the Beem capsule was filled with distilled water to wash the grids under MWI with the same irradiation time as used to contrast. Good results were obtained on irradiating for 1 min and the temperature of the Beem capsule was maintained around 5 °C. [source] Enantiomeric separation of mirtazapine and its metabolites by nano-liquid chromatography with UV-absorption and mass spectrometric detectionJOURNAL OF SEPARATION SCIENCE, JSS, Issue 14 2005Salvatore Fanali Abstract Mirtazapine (MIR) and two of its main metabolites, namely, 8-hydroxymirtazapine and N -desmethylmirtazapine, were separated in totheir enantiomers by nanoLC in a laboratory-made fused-silica capillary column (75 ,m ID) packed with a vancomycin-modified silica stationary phase. The simultaneous separation of the three couples of the studied enantiomers was achieved in less than 33 min, using an experimentally optimized mobile phase delivered in the isocratic mode. Optimization of the mobile-phase composition was achieved by testing the influence of the buffer pH and concentration, the water concentration, the organic modifier type and concentration, and on the retention and resolution of the analytes. The optimum mobile-phase composition contained 500 mM ammonium acetate pH 4.5/water/MeOH/MeCN, 1 : 14 : 40 : 45 v/v/v/v. Using a UV detector at 205 nm, the method was validated studying several experimental parameters such as LOD and LOQ, intraday and interday repeatability, and linearity. Good results were achieved: LOD and LOQ were in the range 5,15 and 10,40 ,g/mL, respectively (the highest value was obtained for the DEMIR enantiomers); correlation coefficients, 0.9993,0.9999; the intraday and interday precision was acceptable (RSD < 2%) using an internal standard. The method was tested for the separation of the studied enantiomers in an extracted (solid-phase) serum sample spiked with standard racemic mixture of MIR and its two metabolites. Finally, the nanoLC system was connected to a mass spectrometer through a nanoelectrospray interface and the MS, MS2, and MS3 spectra were acquired showing the potential of the system used for characterization and identification of the separated analytes. [source] Effect of fluence on efficacy using the 1440 nm laser with CAP technology for the treatment of rhytids,LASERS IN SURGERY AND MEDICINE, Issue 6 2008Jenifer R. Lloyd D.O. Abstract Background and Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of fluence on the treatment of rhytids using a 1440 nm laser with CAPSM technology and the T350 tip. Study Design/Materials and Methods Twelve subjects with rhytids were enrolled in an IRB approved study. The AffirmÔ laser with CAP technology (Cynosure, Inc., Westford, MA) 1440 nm, 10 mm T350, 2 milliseconds, 1.5 Hz was used at fluences ranging from 3.0 to 5.5 J/cm2 in a split face study. At each treatment visit, fluences on the right side of the face were held constant at 3.0 J/cm2, while the left side of the face started at 3.0 J/cm2 and increased 0.5 J/cm2 with each treatment to a maximum of 5.5 J/cm2. Five treatments were given at 2-week intervals using the SmartCoolÔ (Cynosure, Inc.). Photographic comparisons at baseline and 3 months were used to compare fluence results as well as to evaluate for efficacy in the treatment of rhytids. The following standard scale was employed: Poor (0,25%), Fair (26,50%), Good (51,75%), and Excellent (76,100%). In addition, following the study, a few subjects received a series of laser pulses at increasing fluences on their buttocks to further evaluate the effect of fluence on tissue reaction. Results Comparing the right and left photographic results, no clinically observable differences were noted. Both sides received the same grade in all cases. Five subjects (42%) were noted to have Good results, three (25%) were given a rating of Fair, and four (33%) were given a Poor result with little or no improvement observed. The follow-up buttock fluence study demonstrated an effect threshold at 3.0 J/cm2. Conclusion The 1440 nm laser with CAP technology can provide overall improvement in patients with rhytids at moderate fluences. Increasing the fluence does not appear to increase efficacy. Lesers Surg. Med. 40:387,389, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Rapid method for determination of chlormequat residues in tomato products by ion-exchange liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometryRAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY, Issue 19 2002M. Careri A rapid method has been devised for the direct determination of chlormequat in tomato samples. No clean-up is required, and analysis uses ion-exchange liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry interfaced with electrospray ionization (LC/ESI-MS/MS). A cation-exchange column was used with an aqueous ammonium acetate/acetonitrile mixture as the mobile phase under isocratic conditions. The method was validated in terms of detection limits (LOD), quantitation limits (LOQ), linearity, recovery, precision and accuracy. Good results in the low,µg kg,1 level were obtained for the LOD and LOQ of chlormequat in tomato samples. Comparison of solvent and matrix-matched calibration curves demonstrated the absence of significant matrix effects and the feasibility of using external calibration. Linearity was established over two orders of magnitude by performing homoscedasticity and Mandel fitting statistical tests. The absence of both constant and proportional systematic errors was verified by evaluating the recovery function, demonstrating good method accuracy. Excellent precision in terms of intra-day repeatability was calculated (RSD% <3.4). Extraction recoveries from tomato products were calculated, by using a labelled internal standard (d4 -chlormequat), to be in the 93,±,5,99,±,7% range. The applicability of the method to the determination of chlormequat residues in tomato products was demonstrated. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Combined Ultrapulse CO2 Laser and Q-Switched Alexandrite Laser Compared with Q-Switched Alexandrite Laser Alone for Refractory Melasma: Split-Face DesignDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 1 2003Suhattaya Angsuwarangsee MD Background. Melasma is common and can cause major psychological impact. To date, the mainstay of treatment, including various hypopigmenting agents and chemical peels, is ineffective and can cause adverse effects. Laser is a new approach and is yet to be explored for its efficacy and safety. Objective. To compare combined Ultrapulse CO2 laser and Q-switched alexandrite laser (QSAL) with QSAL alone in the treatment of refractory melasma. Methods. Six Thai females were treated with combined Ultrapulse CO2 laser and QSAL on one side of the face and QSAL alone on the other side. The outcome was evaluated periodically for up to 6 months using the modified Melasma Area and Severity Index score and the modified Melasma Area and Melanin Index score. Results. The side with combination treatment had a statistically significant reduction of both scores. On the QSAL side, the score reduction was not significant. Two cases developed severe postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and were effectively treated with bleaching agents. Transient hypopigmentation and contact dermatitis were observed with the combination treatment side. Conclusions. Combined Ultrapulse CO2 laser and QSAL showed a better result than QSAL alone but was associated with more frequent adverse effects. Long-term follow-up and a larger number of cases are required to determine its efficacy and safety for refractory melasma. [source] Interesting properties of Thomas,Fermi kinetic and Parr electron,electron-repulsion DFT energy functional generated compact one-electron density approximation for ground-state electronic energy of molecular systemsJOURNAL OF COMPUTATIONAL CHEMISTRY, Issue 9 2009Sandor Kristyan Abstract The reduction of the electronic Schrodinger equation or its calculating algorithm from 4N -dimensions to a (nonlinear, approximate) density functional of three spatial dimension one-electron density for an N -electron system, which is tractable in the practice, is a long desired goal in electronic structure calculation. If the Thomas-Fermi kinetic energy (,,,5/3dr1) and Parr electron,electron repulsion energy (,,,4/3dr1) main-term functionals are accepted, and they should, the later described, compact one-electron density approximation for calculating ground state electronic energy from the 2nd Hohenberg,Kohn theorem is also noticeable, because it is a certain consequence of the aforementioned two basic functionals. Its two parameters have been fitted to neutral and ionic atoms, which are transferable to molecules when one uses it for estimating ground-state electronic energy. The convergence is proportional to the number of nuclei (M) needing low disc space usage and numerical integration. Its properties are discussed and compared with known ab initio methods, and for energy differences (here atomic ionization potentials) it is comparable or sometimes gives better result than those. It does not reach the chemical accuracy for total electronic energy, but beside its amusing simplicity, it is interesting in theoretical point of view, and can serve as generator function for more accurate one-electron density models. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 2009 [source] Mesalazine with or without cholestyramine in the treatment of microscopic colitis: Randomized controlled trialJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 6 2007Carlo Calabrese Abstract Background:, Collagenous colitis (CC) and lymphocytic colitis (LC) are chronic inflammatory diseases of the colon with a benign and sometimes relapsing course. Frequency among patients with chronic diarrhea and normal looking colonoscopy is around 10,15%. To date, treatment of CC and LC is not well defined. Data about these conditions are mostly derived from retrospective studies. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the response to treatment and the clinical course of CC and LC in a large group of patients prospectively diagnosed. Methods and Results:, A total of 819 patients underwent a colonoscopy because of chronic watery diarrhea and among them we found 41 patients with LC and 23 with CC. These patients were later randomized and assigned to treatment with mesalazine or mesalazine + cholestyramine for 6 months. Fifty-four patients (84.37%) had resolved diarrhea in less than 2 weeks. After 6 months a colonoscopy with biopsies was repeated. Clinical and histological remission was achieved in 85.36% of patients with LC and in 91.3% with CC, with a better result in patients with CC treated with mesalazine + cholestyramine. During a mean period of 44.9 months, 13% of patients relapsed; four with LC and three with CC. They were retreated for another 6 months. At the end of this period one patient with CC was still symptomatic and persistence of CC was confirmed at histology. Conclusions:, Treatment with mesalazine seems to be an effective therapeutic option for LC to date, while mesalazine + cholestyramine seems to be more useful in the treatment of CC. [source] Effect of Aging on Coronal Microleakage in Access Cavities through Metal Ceramic Crowns Restored with Resin CompositesJOURNAL OF PROSTHODONTICS, Issue 5 2010Ali Abdullah Alwan Al-Maqtari BDS Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine if packable resin composite with/without flowable resin composite has the ability to prevent coronal leakage in restored endodontic access openings following aging. Materials and Methods: Eighty simulated standardized access cavities of metal-ceramic crowns were fabricated and fixed on Vitrebond cavities filled with an epoxy resin. The specimens were randomly divided into two main groups: (1) Group A,Access cavities filled with only packable composite (Filtek P60); (2) Group B,Access cavities filled with Filtek P60 and a flowable composite (Filtek Z350) as liner. Each main group was further subdivided randomly into four subgroups according to water storage and thermocycling periods. All specimens were immersed in blue ink solution for 24 hours and then sectioned into quadrants. The extension of blue ink along the metal-ceramic crown/composite resin interface was measured linearly using image analyzer and then analyzed by three-way ANOVA and independent t -test with a Mann-Whitney test. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: All tested subgroups demonstrated different levels of microleakage. There was no significant difference related to restorative technique; however, there was a significant difference related to water storage and thermocycling. Conclusions: All tested techniques and materials in this study showed microleakage. Packable composite while a flowable liner showed a marginally better result than packable composite alone. Excessive thermocycling resulted in significant differences among the test groups. [source] Are Mechanistic and Statistical QSAR Approaches Really Different?MOLECULAR INFORMATICS, Issue 6-7 2010MLR Studies on 158 Cycloalkyl-Pyranones Abstract Two parallel approaches for quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR) are predominant in literature, one guided by mechanistic methods (including read-across) and another by the use of statistical methods. To bridge the gap between these two approaches and to verify their main differences, a comparative study of mechanistically relevant and statistically relevant QSAR models, developed on a case study of 158 cycloalkyl-pyranones, biologically active on inhibition (Ki) of HIV protease, was performed. Firstly, Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) based models were developed starting from a limited amount of molecular descriptors which were widely proven to have mechanistic interpretation. Then robust and predictive MLR models were developed on the same set using two different statistical approaches unbiased of input descriptors. Development of models based on Statistical I method was guided by stepwise addition of descriptors while Genetic Algorithm based selection of descriptors was used for the Statistical II. Internal validation, the standard error of the estimate, and Fisher's significance test were performed for both the statistical models. In addition, external validation was performed for Statistical II model, and Applicability Domain was verified as normally practiced in this approach. The relationships between the activity and the important descriptors selected in all the models were analyzed and compared. It is concluded that, despite the different type and number of input descriptors, and the applied descriptor selection tools or the algorithms used for developing the final model, the mechanistical and statistical approach are comparable to each other in terms of quality and also for mechanistic interpretability of modelling descriptors. Agreement can be observed between these two approaches and the better result could be a consensus prediction from both the models. [source] Laparoscopic obesity surgery in an Asian Institute: A 10-year prospective study with review of literatureASIAN JOURNAL OF ENDOSCOPIC SURGERY, Issue 2 2009Wei-Jei Lee Abstract Objective: Obesity surgery is the most effective treatment for morbid obesity and leads to dramatic improvement in related co-morbidities. The aim of this study was to present the long-term results of a prospective trial studying the efficacy of laparoscopic obesity surgery in a group of oriental patients. Method: From April 1998 to March 2009, 2385 patients who underwent obesity surgery in a single bariatric center in Asia were recruited. Various procedures have been adopted so far, including laparoscopic vertical banded gastric partition in 652 patients (27.3%), laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGB) in 1228 patients (51.5%), laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in 226 patients (9.5%), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in 128 patients (5.4%), gastric balloon in 68 patients (2.8%) and laparoscopic revision surgery in 83 patients (3.5%). We evaluated the clinical data and effect of obesity surgery on different procedures. Results: Overall, the major complication rate and mortality were 1.5% and 0.12%. There was an increase of surgical risk in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and laparoscopic revision surgery patients. The mean total weight loss for the population was 28.1%, 33.9%, 21.3% 18.7% and 17.4% at 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 years after surgery, respectively. LGB had a better weight loss (30.1%) than that of the restrictive-type procedures (20.9%) at 5 years after surgery. After surgery, most of the obesity-associated co-morbidities were resolved or improved in these patients. Conclusion: Laparoscopic obesity surgery resulted in significant and sustained weight loss in morbidly obese Asian patients with resolution of associated co-morbidities. LGB had a better result in weight reduction than other restrictive procedures. [source] Assessment of functional vision and its rehabilitationACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2 2010August Colenbrander Abstract. This article, based on a report prepared for the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) and the International Society for Low Vision Research and Rehabilitation (ISLRR), explores the assessment of various aspects of visual functioning as needed to document the outcomes of vision rehabilitation. Documenting patient abilities and functional vision (how the person functions) is distinct from the measurement of visual functions (how the eye functions) and also from the assessment of quality of life. All three areas are important, but their assessment should not be mixed. Observation of task performance offers the most objective measure of functional vision, but it is time-consuming and not feasible for many tasks. Where possible, timing and error rates provide an easy score. Patient response questionnaires provide an alternative. They may save time and can cover a wider area, but the responses are subjective and proper scoring presents problems. Simple Likert scoring still predominates but Rasch analysis, needed to provide better result scales, is gaining ground. Selection of questions is another problem. If the range of difficulties does not match the range of patient abilities, and if the difficulties are not distributed evenly, the results are not optimal. This may be an argument to use different outcome questions for different conditions. Generic questionnaires are appropriate for the assessment of generic quality of life, but not for specific rehabilitation outcomes. Different questionnaires are also needed for screening, intake and outcomes. Intake questions must be relevant to actual needs to allow prioritization of rehabilitation goals; the activity inventory presents a prototype. Outcome questions should be targeted at predefined rehabilitation goals. The Appendix cites some promising examples. The Low Vision Intervention Trial (LOVIT) is an example of a properly designed randomized control study, and has demonstrated the remarkable effectiveness of vision rehabilitation. It is hoped that further similar studies will follow. [source] SENTIMENT CLASSIFICATION of MOVIE REVIEWS USING CONTEXTUAL VALENCE SHIFTERSCOMPUTATIONAL INTELLIGENCE, Issue 2 2006Alistair Kennedy We present two methods for determining the sentiment expressed by a movie review. The semantic orientation of a review can be positive, negative, or neutral. We examine the effect of valence shifters on classifying the reviews. We examine three types of valence shifters: negations, intensifiers, and diminishers. Negations are used to reverse the semantic polarity of a particular term, while intensifiers and diminishers are used to increase and decrease, respectively, the degree to which a term is positive or negative. The first method classifies reviews based on the number of positive and negative terms they contain. We use the General Inquirer to identify positive and negative terms, as well as negation terms, intensifiers, and diminishers. We also use positive and negative terms from other sources, including a dictionary of synonym differences and a very large Web corpus. To compute corpus-based semantic orientation values of terms, we use their association scores with a small group of positive and negative terms. We show that extending the term-counting method with contextual valence shifters improves the accuracy of the classification. The second method uses a Machine Learning algorithm, Support Vector Machines. We start with unigram features and then add bigrams that consist of a valence shifter and another word. The accuracy of classification is very high, and the valence shifter bigrams slightly improve it. The features that contribute to the high accuracy are the words in the lists of positive and negative terms. Previous work focused on either the term-counting method or the Machine Learning method. We show that combining the two methods achieves better results than either method alone. [source] Low-Fluence Q-Switched Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser for Melasma with Pre- or Post-Treatment Triple Combination CreamDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 6 2010SE-YEONG JEONG MD BACKGROUND Topical triple combination (TC) treatment is considered the primary approach to melasma. Recently, collimated low-fluence 1,064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser treatment has attracted attention as an alternative approach. OBJECTIVES To compare the clinical efficacy and adverse effects of low-fluence Q-switched Nd:YAG laser when performed before and after treatment with topical TC using a split-face crossover design. METHODS Thirteen patients with melasma received topical treatment with TC cream or 1,064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment on opposite sides of the face for 8 weeks, and then treatments were reversed for 8 weeks. Responses were evaluated using the Melasma Area and Severity Index scoring system, spectrophotometry measurements, and a subjective self-assessment method. RESULTS After 16 weeks, better results were seen in subjective assessments when laser treatment was used after 8 weeks of topical TC treatment than before usage of TC. There were no significant adverse effects with the laser treatments. CONCLUSIONS Laser treatment after topical TC cream was found to be safer and more effective than the post-treatment use of topical agents. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. [source] Results of a Survey of 5,700 Patient Monopolar Radiofrequency Facial Skin Tightening Treatments: Assessment of a Low-Energy Multiple-Pass Technique Leading to a Clinical End Point AlgorithmDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 8 2007FRCP, FRCPC, JEFFREY S. DOVER MD INTRODUCTION Monopolar radiofrequency is an effective means of nonsurgical facial skin tightening. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine whether using larger tips at lower energy and multiple passes, using patient feedback on heat sensation and treating to a clinical end point of visible tightening, would yield better results than single passes with small tips at high energy, as measured by patient and physician satisfaction. METHODS Fourteen physicians from four specialties were surveyed to determine the answers to the following three questions. (1) Is patient's feedback on heat sensation a valid and preferred method for optimal energy selection? (2) Do multiple passes at moderate energy settings yield substantial and consistent efficacy? (3) Is treating to a clinical end point of visible tightening predictable of results? RESULTS A total of 5,700 patient treatments were surveyed. Comparisons were made using the original algorithm of high-energy, single pass to the new algorithm of lower energy and multiple passes with visible tightening as the end point of treatment. Using the original treatment algorithm, 26% of patients demonstrated immediate tightening, 54% observed skin tightening 6 months after treatment, 45% found the procedure too painful, and 68% of patients found the treatment results met their expectations. With the new multiple-pass algorithm, 87% observed immediate tightening, 92% had the tightening six months after treatment, 5% found the procedure too painful, while 94% found the treatment results met their expectations. CONCLUSIONS Patient feedback on heat sensation is a valid, preferable method for optimal energy selection in monopolar radiofrequency skin-tightening treatments. [source] Laser Lipolysis Using a Novel 1,064 nm Nd:YAG LaserDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2 2006KAREN H. KIM MD BACKGROUND We studied the safety and efficacy of a 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser with a 300 ,m fiber for the reduction of small unwanted fat areas. METHODS Thirty subjects with focal areas of fat less than 100 cm3 were enrolled. Ten subjects were treated with laser lipolysis and had magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at baseline and 3 months post-treatment. Ten subjects had laser lipolysis followed by biweekly treatments with the Tri-active system. The last group of 10 subjects served as control. Patients were seen at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 month follow-up visits. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients completed the study. Self-assessment evaluations reported an improvement of 37% at the 3-month follow-up visit. MRI demonstrated an average 17% reduction in fat volume. Smaller baseline volume areas, such as the submentum, showed better results, suggesting a dose-response relationship. The most common side effects were mild bruising and swelling resolving within 2 weeks. CONCLUSION Laser lipolysis using the 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser with 300 ,m fiber appears to be a very promising procedure that delivers good, reproducible results safely and effectively. The advantages include excellent patient tolerance, quick recovery time, as well as the benefit of dermal tightening. [source] Group cognitive behavioural therapy for obsessive,compulsive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysisACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2009H. Jónsson Objective:, Behaviour therapy with exposure and response prevention (ERP) or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) including ERP are considered the psychological treatments of choice for obsessive,compulsive disorder (OCD), but group CBT/ERP has received relatively little research attention in the treatment of OCD. The aim of this study was to provide a meta-analysis of the effectiveness of group CBT/ERP for OCD. Method:, A systematic literature search was conducted and studies were meta-analysed by means of the Cochrane Review Manager Program with measures of i) pre- to post-effect sizes (ES) and ii) between-group ES in comparison with different control conditions. Outcome was primarily measured on the Y-BOCS and ES was calculated in the form of Cohens d. Results:, Thirteen trials were included in the meta-analysis. The overall pre,post-ES of these trials of 1.18 and a between-group ES of 1.12 compared with waiting list control in three randomized controlled studies indicate that group CBT/ERP is an effective treatment for OCD. Group CBT achieved better results than pharmacological treatment in two studies. One study found no significant differences between individual and group CBT. Conclusion:, Group CBT is an effective treatment for OCD, but more studies are needed to compare the effectiveness of group and individual treatment formats. [source] A controlled randomized treatment study: the effects of a cognitive remediation program on adolescents with early onset psychosisACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 1 2004T. Ueland Objective: To examine if a cognitive remediation program could be a positive supplement to a psychoeducational treatment program for adolescents with early onset psychosis. Method: Twenty-six subjects, randomly assigned to cognitive remediation (n = 14) or control group (n = 12), were assessed on cognitive, clinical, psychosocial and behavioural measures. Results: No significant between-group differences in pre- and post-treatment scores were found. This may be due to low statistical power. Exploratory within-group analyses showed that the training group improved on five of the 10 cognitive, and three of the five functioning outcome measures, while the control group improved on three of the cognitive, and one functioning outcome variable. Conclusion: Based on these results we cannot conclude that the addition of this cognitive remediation program, yields better results than psychoeducation alone. However, within-group analyses indicate that on specific cognitive functions, as well as on some functioning outcome measures, the remediation program may have a positive effect. [source] Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion with short-acting insulin analogues or human regular insulin: efficacy, safety, quality of life, and cost-effectivenessDIABETES/METABOLISM: RESEARCH AND REVIEWS, Issue 3 2004Régis Pierre Radermecker Abstract Portable insulin infusion devices are effective and safe insulin delivery systems for managing diabetes mellitus, especially type 1 diabetes. Rapidly absorbed insulin analogues, such as insulin lispro or insulin aspart, may offer an advantage over regular human insulin for insulin pumps. Several open-label randomised crossover trials demonstrated that continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) with insulin lispro provided a better control of postprandial hyperglycaemia and a slightly but significantly lower glycated haemoglobin level, with lower daily insulin requirement and similar or even less hypoglycaemic episodes. A CSII study comparing insulin lispro and insulin aspart demonstrated similar results with the two analogues, and better results than those with regular insulin. Because these analogues have a quicker onset and a shorter duration of action than regular insulin, one might expect an earlier and greater metabolic deterioration in case of CSII interruption, but a more rapid correction of metabolic abnormalities after insulin boluses when reactivating the pump. These expectations were confirmed in randomised protocols comparing the metabolic changes occurring during and after CSII interruption of various durations when the pump infused either insulin lispro or regular insulin. The extra cost resulting from the use of CSII and insulin analogues in diabetes management should be compensated for by better metabolic control and quality of life. In conclusion, CSII delivering fast-acting insulin analogues may be considered as one of the best methods to replace insulin in a physiological manner by mimicking meal and basal insulin requirements, without higher risk of hypoglycaemia or ketoacidosis in well-educated diabetic patients. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Political Determinants of Intergovernmental Grants: Evidence From ArgentinaECONOMICS & POLITICS, Issue 3 2001Alberto Porto This paper explores the determinants of federal grants allocation across provincial states in Argentina. Our analysis suggests that the redistributive pattern implicit in the federal system of intergovernmental grants cannot be explained on normative grounds exclusively. In order to understand the rationale behind federal grants distribution, a positive approach could render better results. Specifically, we claim that the distribution of federal grants could be associated with political variables such as the political representation of jurisdictions at Congress. The econometric analysis suggests that the significant disparity observed in the per capita representation across different provinces is an important factor explaining the allocation of those transfers. In this respect, overrepresented provinces, both at the senate and at the lower chamber, have received, on average, higher resources from the national government compared to more populous and less represented states. These results are consistent with those observed in other countries. 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