bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synchronous Malignant Otitis Externa and Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the External Auditory Canal
Authors: Chin R. Y. , Nguyen T. B. V.
Published: October 2013

Objectives. To discuss the management of a squamous cell carcinoma in the presence of malignant otitis externa.Study Design. We present only the third reported case in the literature of a synchronous tumour with malignant otitis externa in the literature.Methods. A case report and review of malignant otitis externa and squamous cell carcinomas of the external auditory canal are discussed.Results. A 66-year-old female is presented here with a 2-month history of a painful, discharging left ear refractory to standard antibiotic therapy. Computerised tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, technetium 99 m, and gallium citrate Ga67 scans were consistent with malignant otitis externa. Biopsy in the operating theatre revealed a synchronous squamous cell carcinoma of the external auditory canal. Primary resection of the tumour and surrounding tissues was performed with concomitant treatment with intravenous antibiotics.Conclusions. This is only the third case to be reported in the literature and highlights several important diagnostic and management issues of these two rare conditions. Both conditions may present in a similar manner on clinical assessment and radiological investigations. Aggressive management with surgical resection and treatment with appropriate intravenous antibiotics is necessary to give the best chance for cure.
MFT-MAC: A Duty-Cycle MAC Protocol Using Multiframe Transmission for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Lee EunJin , Jwa Jeong Woo , Kim HeungSoo
Published: October 2013

In many sensor network applications, energy efficiency and latency are major design criteria because battery-operated sensor nodes limit network lifetime. In this paper, we propose a new contention-based duty-cycle MAC protocol using a synchronized approach for use in wireless sensor networks. In the proposed MFT-MAC protocol, we use a control frame that considers the number of DATA frames to be transmitted to the next node in order to improve the energy efficiency and reduce the end-to-end delay. During the SLEEP period, each node transmits multiple DATA frames to the next node through the use of the control frame. The performance of the proposed MAC protocol is confirmed through the use of NS-2 simulator.
All‐Solution‐Processed InGaO3(ZnO)m Thin Films with Layered Structure
Authors: Cho Sung Woon , Kim Jun Hyeon , Shin Sangwoo , Cho Hyung Hee , Cho Hyung Koun
Published: October 2013

We fabricated the crystallized InGaZnO thin films by sol‐gel process and high‐temperature annealing at 900°C. Prior to the deposition of the InGaZnO, ZnO buffer layers were also coated by sol‐gel process, which was followed by thermal annealing. After the synthesis and annealing of the InGaZnO, the InGaZnO thin film on the ZnO buffer layer with preferred orientation showed periodic diffraction patterns in the X‐ray diffraction, resulting in a superlattice structure. This film consisted of nanosized grains with two phases of InGaO3(ZnO)1 and InGaO3(ZnO)2 in InGaZnO polycrystal. On the other hand, the use of no ZnO buffer layer and randomly oriented ZnO buffer induced the absence of the InGaZnO crystal related patterns. This indicated that the ZnO buffer with high c‐axis preferred orientation reduced the critical temperature for the crystallization of the layered InGaZnO. The InGaZnO thin films formed with nanosized grains of two‐phase InGaO3(ZnO)m superlattice showed considerably low thermal conductivity (1.14 Wm−1 K−1 at 325 K) due to the phonon scattering from grain boundaries as well as interfaces in the superlattice grain.
Automated and Manual Human Papilloma Virus in situ Hybridization and p16 Immunohistochemistry: Comparison in Metastatic Oropharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Fatima Nazneen , Cohen Cynthia , Lawson Diane , Siddiqui Momin T.
Published: October 2013

Objectives: We compared the efficacy of automated and manual human papilloma virus (HPV) in situ hybridization (ISH) and p16 immunohistochemical staining (IHC) in fine needle aspiration (FNA) of metastatic oropharyngeal carcinoma. Study Design: A total of 41 FNA cell blocks (CB) were evaluated. HPV ISH was interpreted as positive if a minimum of one tumor cell showed punctate dot-like nuclear positivity. p16 was interpreted as positive if ≥70% of tumor cells showed brown nuclear and cytoplasmic staining. Results: Thirty of 41 CB (73%) were positive by automated HPV ISH, 25 of 41 CB (60%) with manual HPV ISH. Eighteen of 41 CB (43%) were positive for p16 IHC. Twelve of 41 CB (29%) with automated HPV ISH and 2 of 41 CB (4%) with the manual method were positive at 10× magnification. Three of 41 CB (7%) with automated HPV ISH and 14 of 41 CB (34%) with the manual method were positive at 20× magnification. Fifteen of 41 CB (36%) with automated HPV ISH and 9 of 41 CB (21%) with the manual method were positive at 40-60× magnification. Conclusion: Automated HPV ISH plays a more significant role in determining the HPV status in CB. However, the failure to use high magnification in the evaluation can give false-negative results.
Triple versus Dual Antiplatelet Therapy in Acute Coronary Syndromes: Adding Cilostazol to Aspirin and Clopidogrel?
Authors: Niazi Asfandyar K. , DiNicolantonio James J. , Lavie Carl J. , O'Keefe James H. , Meier Pascal , Bangalore Sripal
Published: October 2013

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 receptor antagonist is the standard of care in acute coronary syndromes. Additionally, novel P2Y12 receptor antagonists such as prasugrel and ticagrelor are even recommended over clopidogrel in certain clinical guidelines. Despite the fact that clopidogrel is fraught with significant variability in on-treatment platelet reactivity, the novel P2Y12 receptor antagonists come at the price of increased side effects and cost. Therefore, alternative or supplementary antiplatelet therapies are needed. Cilostazol, a phosphodiesterase III inhibitor, has been shown to significantly improve high on-treatment platelet reactivity in patients receiving both aspirin and clopidogrel and has antiproliferative effects (inhibiting neointimal hyperplasia and smooth muscle proliferation), thus reducing the risk of restenosis after coronary stent implantation. Further, cilostazol in addition to aspirin and clopidogrel versus DAPT in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention showed that triple antiplatelet therapy (TAPT) was associated with a significantly greater platelet inhibition, reduced major adverse cardiovascular events, target lesion revascularization, and target vessel revascularization with no increased risk for a hemorrhagic event. Moving forward, larger randomized controlled trials are required comparing TAPT versus DAPT (clopidogrel, prasugrel or ticagrelor on top of aspirin).
Macular Tractional Retinoschisis in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy: Clinical Characteristics and Surgical Outcome
Authors: Su Chien-Chia , Yang Chang-Hao , Yeh Po-Ting , Yang Chung-May
Published: October 2013

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical characteristics and surgical outcome of macular tractional retinoschisis (TRS) as compared with tractional retinal detachment (TRD) in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Methods: This retrospective, longitudinal study collected consecutive cases with optical coherence tomography (OCT)-confirmed TRS and TRD between January 2007 and June 2013. All cases had surgical treatment. Their preoperative findings and follow-up data were subsequently compared. Results: Thirty-two eyes (32 patients) with TRS and 32 eyes (32 patients) with TRD were included. The TRS group had more clinically inactive fibrosis and less extensive fibrovascular proliferation than the TRD group. The involved area and height of the schisis varied among cases; associated macular abnormalities included inner macular cyst (43.75%), lamellar hole (12.5%) and foveal detachment (9.38%); sequential OCT in some cases showed a progression of macular changes. Both groups had significant visual improvement after surgery. Of the patients with TRS, 40.62% had residual retinoschisis. Preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), postoperative BCVA and improvement in visual acuity showed no significant difference between TRS and TRD. Conclusions: Unique features exist for macular TRS in PDR. Visual function may benefit from vitreous surgery despite residual macular abnormalities in some cases.
Epigenetics in Twin Studies
Authors: Craig Jeffrey M.
Published: October 2013

It is emerging that the environment, particularly in early life, can cause long-lasting epigenetic changes that are accompanied by latent effects on health outcomes. Furthermore, the reversibility of some epigenetic marks in animal models indicates that, once recognised in early life, such epigenetic changes may be reversible, providing potential avenues for disease prognosis, prevention and treatment. Twin studies, which were originally used to calculate gross components of genetic and environmental influence on phenotype, are now being used to associate specific genetic and epigenetic variants with specific human conditions and diseases. Epigenome-wide association studies of phenotypically discordant, genetically ‘identical' monozygotic twins have the power to focus solely on epigenetic association with disease and are providing information about gene-environment interaction and variable penetrance. Going beyond association, such studies can help generate epigenetic biomarkers to predict disease long before clinical onset, which has important implications for disease prevention. Furthermore, when epigenetic information on a genome scale is combined with other ‘omics', twin studies will be a strong force for the improvement of human health.
Management and Outcomes of Major Bleeding During Treatment With Dabigatran or Warfarin
Authors: Majeed Ammar , Hwang Hun-Gyu , Connolly Stuart J. , Eikelboom John W. , Ezekowitz Michael D. , Wallentin Lars , Brueckmann Martina , Fraessdorf Mandy , Yusuf Salim , Schulman Sam
Published: October 2013

Background—

The aim of this study was to compare the management and prognosis of major bleeding in patients treated with dabigatran or warfarin.

Methods and Results—

Two independent investigators reviewed bleeding reports from 1034 individuals with 1121 major bleeds enrolled in 5 phase III trials comparing dabigatran with warfarin in 27 419 patients treated for 6 to 36 months. Patients with major bleeds on dabigatran (n=627 of 16 755) were older, had lower creatinine clearance, and more frequently used aspirin or non-steroid anti-inflammatory agents than those on warfarin (n=407 of 10 002). The 30-day mortality after the first major bleed tended to be lower in the dabigatran group (9.1%) than in the warfarin group (13.0%; pooled odds ratio, 0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.46–1.01;
P
=0.057). After adjustment for sex, age, weight, renal function, and concomitant antithrombotic therapy, the pooled odds ratio for 30-day mortality with dabigatran versus warfarin was 0.66 (95% confidence interval, 0.44–1.00;
P
=0.051). Major bleeds in dabigatran patients were more frequently treated with blood transfusions (423/696, 61%) than bleeds in warfarin patients (175/425, 42%;
P
<0.001) but less frequently with plasma (dabigatran, 19.8%; warfarin, 30.2%;
P
<0.001). Patients who experienced a bleed had shorter stays in the intensive care unit if they had previously received dabigatran (mean 1.6 nights) compared with those who had received warfarin (mean 2.7 nights;
P
=0.01).

Conclusions—

Patients who experienced major bleeding on dabigatran required more red cell transfusions but received less plasma, required a shorter stay in intensive care, and had a trend to lower mortality compared with those who had major bleeding on warfarin.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov
. Unique identifiers: NCT00262600, NCT00291330, NCT00680186, NCT00329238 and NCT00558259.
Anticoagulation and Survival in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Olsson Karen M. , Delcroix Marion , Ghofrani H. Ardeschir , Tiede Henning , Huscher Doerte , Speich Rudolf , Grünig Ekkehard , Staehler Gerd , Rosenkranz Stephan , Halank Michael , Held Matthias , Lange Tobias J. , Behr Juergen , Klose Hans , Claussen Martin , Ewert Ralf , Opitz Christian F. , Vizza C. Dario , Scelsi Laura , Vonk-Noordegraaf Anton , Kaemmerer Harald , Gibbs J. Simon R. , Coghlan Gerry , Pepke-Zaba Joanna , Schulz Uwe , Gorenflo Matthias , Pittrow David , Hoeper Marius M.
Published: October 2013

Background—

For almost 30 years, anticoagulation has been recommended for patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). Supporting evidence, however, is limited, and it is unclear whether this recommendation is still justified in the modern management era and whether it should be extended to patients with other forms of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Methods and Results—

We analyzed data from Comparative, Prospective Registry of Newly Initiated Therapies for Pulmonary Hypertension (COMPERA), an ongoing European pulmonary hypertension registry. Survival rates of patients with IPAH and other forms of PAH were compared by the use of anticoagulation. The sample consisted of 1283 consecutively enrolled patients with newly diagnosed PAH. Anticoagulation was used in 66% of 800 patients with IPAH and in 43% of 483 patients with other forms of PAH. In patients with IPAH, there was a significantly better 3-year survival (
P
=0.006) in patients on anticoagulation compared with patients who never received anticoagulation, albeit the patients in the anticoagulation group had more severe disease at baseline. The survival difference at 3 years remained statistically significant (
P
=0.017) in a matched-pair analysis of n=336 IPAH patients. The beneficial effect of anticoagulation on survival of IPAH patients was confirmed by Cox multivariable regression analysis (hazard ratio, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, 0.66–0.94). In contrast, the use of anticoagulants was not associated with a survival benefit in patients with other forms of PAH.

Conclusions—

The present data suggest that the use of anticoagulation is associated with a survival benefit in patients with IPAH, supporting current treatment recommendations. The evidence remains inconclusive for other forms of PAH.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01347216.
Somatic
ATP1A1
,
ATP2B3
, and
KCNJ5
Mutations in Aldosterone-Producing Adenomas
Authors: Williams Tracy Ann , Monticone Silvia , Schack Vivien R. , Stindl Julia , Burrello Jacopo , Buffolo Fabrizio , Annaratone Laura , Castellano Isabella , Beuschlein Felix , Reincke Martin , Lucatello Barbara , Ronconi Vanessa , Fallo Francesco , Bernini Giampaolo , Maccario Mauro , Giacchetti Gilberta , Veglio Franco , Warth Richard , Vilsen Bente , Mulatero Paolo
Published: October 2013

Aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) cause a sporadic form of primary aldosteronism and somatic mutations in the
KCNJ5
gene, which encodes the G-protein–activated inward rectifier K
+
channel 4, GIRK4, account for ≈40% of APAs. Additional somatic APA mutations were identified recently in 2 other genes,
ATP1A1
and
ATP2B3
, encoding Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase 1 and Ca
2+
-ATPase 3, respectively, at a combined prevalence of 6.8%. We have screened 112 APAs for mutations in known hotspots for genetic alterations associated with primary aldosteronism. Somatic mutations in
ATP1A1
,
ATP2B3
, and
KCNJ5
were present in 6.3%, 0.9%, and 39.3% of APAs, respectively, and included 2 novel mutations (Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase p.Gly99Arg and GIRK4 p.Trp126Arg).
CYP11B2
gene expression was higher in APAs harboring
ATP1A1
and
ATP2B3
mutations compared with those without these or
KCNJ5
mutations. Overexpression of Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase p.Gly99Arg and GIRK4 p.Trp126Arg in HAC15 adrenal cells resulted in upregulation of
CYP11B2
gene expression and its transcriptional regulator
NR4A2.
Structural modeling of the Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase showed that the Gly99Arg substitution most likely interferes with the gateway to the ion binding pocket. In vitro functional assays demonstrated that Gly99Arg displays severely impaired ATPase activity, a reduced apparent affinity for Na
+
activation of phosphorylation and K
+
inhibition of phosphorylation that indicate decreased Na
+
and K
+
binding, respectively. Moreover, whole cell patch-clamp studies established that overexpression of Na
+
/K
+
-ATPase Gly99Arg causes membrane voltage depolarization. In conclusion, somatic mutations are common in APAs that result in an increase in
CYP11B2
gene expression and may account for the dysregulated aldosterone production in a subset of patients with sporadic primary aldosteronism.
Physical Activity and Risk of Hypertension
Authors: Huai Pengcheng , Xun Huanmiao , Reilly Kathleen Heather , Wang Yiguan , Ma Wei , Xi Bo
Published: October 2013

Published literature reports controversial results about the association of physical activity (PA) with risk of hypertension. A meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies was performed to investigate the effect of PA on hypertension risk. PubMed and Embase databases were searched to identify all related prospective cohort studies. The
Q
test and
I
2
statistic were used to examine between-study heterogeneity. Fixed or random effects models were selected based on study heterogeneity. A funnel plot and modified Egger linear regression test were used to estimate publication bias. Thirteen prospective cohort studies were identified, including 136 846 persons who were initially free of hypertension, and 15 607 persons developed hypertension during follow-up. The pooled relative risk (RR) of main results from these studies suggests that both high and moderate levels of recreational PA were associated with decreased risk of hypertension (high versus low: RR, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, 0.76–0.85 and moderate versus low: RR, 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 0.85–0.94). The association of high or moderate occupational PA with decreased hypertension risk was not significant (high versus low: RR, 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.81–1.08 and moderate versus low: RR, 0.96; 95% confidence interval, 0.87–1.06). No publication bias was observed. The results of this meta-analysis suggested that there was an inverse dose–response association between levels of recreational PA and risk of hypertension, whereas there was no significant association between occupational PA and hypertension.
Paul’s “Indebtedness” to the Barbarian (Rom 1:14) in Latin West Perspective
Authors: Harrison James R.
Published: October 2013

Abstract

In moving the geographical focus of his mission from the Greek East to the Latin West (Rom 15:23-24, 28; cf. 1:9-10, 13), Paul states that he was indebted to “Greek and barbarian” (1:14). Paul’s language of “indebtedness” not only relativises the ethnic and linguistic divide of antiquity (v. 14 a), but also cultural and educational stereotypes, including the denigration of barbarians (v. 14 b). The apostle’s thought here should not be restricted to the evangelisation of the Latin West and the pastoral care of its churches, even though that is the focus of the pericope (vv. 8b-9a, 11-12a, 13b, 15-17). His language of “indebtedness” occurs in various contexts, several of them social (1:14a; 4:4; 13:8; 15:1, 27). It evokes the world of Roman political and social parlance, with its interplay of imperial patronage and the reciprocation of favour in the western provinces where many barbarian tribes resided. After examining renderings of barbarians in select Roman writers and the Augustan triumphal iconography, the article explores the notion of “obligation” in the Gallic and Spanish inscriptions.

The author proposes that Romans 1:14 articulates what “indebtedness” meant for the believer’s mission to the marginalised people groups outside of the body of Christ. This would enable Paul’s house-churches not only to embrace the peoples from barbarian tribes with whom the Romans had patronal relations, but also those tribes in the Latin West whom the Romans had punished for their non-compliance.
Eight New Atlantic Rainforest Species and Nomenclatural Notes in Brazilian Myrtaceae
Authors: SOBRAL MARCOS
Published: October 2013

Eight Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest species are described and illustrated: Calyptranthes santalucia, Eugenia barrana, E. culicina, E. lacistema, E. viscacea, Myrcia basicordata, M. monoclada and Myrciaria evanida. Calyptranthes santalucia, from the state of Espírito Santo, is related to C. brasiliensis, differing for its acute leaves and pauciflorous inflorescences; Eugenia barrana, from the states of Minas Gerais and Bahia, is related to E. chlorophylla, but has smaller leaves and larger flowers; Eugenia culicina, from the state of Pernambuco, is related to E. roseiflora, differing through the smaller petioles, adaxially sulcate lateral veins, pilose flowers and larger fruits; Eugenia lacistema, from Bahia, is related to E. platyphylla, differing by the inflorescences with lignified bracts and smaller pedicels;  Eugenia viscacea, from Bahia, is related to E. ellipsoidea, differing through the inflorescences with densely imbricate bracts and smaller pedicels; Myrcia basicordata, from Espírito Santo, is related to M. pubescens, but presents applanate glabrous twigs and glabrous and sessile leaves with cordate base; Myrcia monoclada, from Bahia, is related to M. riodocensis, but has larger leaves and pentamerous flowers, and Myrciaria evanida, from Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais, resembles M. floribunda, differing by the vanishing secondary veins and smaller flowers. The new species are also evaluated as to their conservation status according to IUCN criteria. Additionally, the synonymization of Eugenia apiocarpa under E. astringens and of Eugenia pleurantha under E. umbellata and the lectotypification of Eugenia ellipsoidea are proposed.
A new species of Prosopistoma (Ephemeroptera: Prosopistomatidae) from China with a key to Oriental species
Authors: SHI WEIFANG , TONG XIAOLI
Published: October 2013

A new species of the monogeneric family Prosopistomatidae, Prosopistoma ocellatum sp. n., is described and illustrated based on mature larval stages from Guangxi and Hainan, southern China. The new species can be readily distinguished from the other members of Prosopistoma by the following combination of characters: antenna 6-segmented, segment III much longer than segments IV–VI; three bristles at the base of the inner canine; 10–11 pectinate setae on ventral margin of fore tibiae, ventral and basal half surface of all femora with dense scale-like structures, and color pattern of eye-spot on the mesonotum. An update key to the known Oriental species is provided.
Sunagocia omanensis, a new flathead fish (Scorpaeniformes, Platycephalidae) from the Western Indian Ocean, with comments on the distribution of Sunagocia carbuncula
Authors: KNAPP LESLIE W. , RANDALL JOHN E.
Published: October 2013

A new species of Platycephalidae having a weak development of sensory tubules on the cheek is placed in the genus Sunagocia Imamura. The description is based on two specimens taken at the Kuria Muria Ids., Oman. The new species may be distinguished from its congeners by having three preocular spines, ethmoid spines forming a rosette on mid-line with 5–6 tips coming from a common base, and a body coloration of tan with dark saddles reaching to lower sides. It is also characterized by having numerous small serrations along the supraorbital and suborbital ridges and sixgill rakers. A section concerning the status and range of Sunagocia carbuncula Valenciennes in the western Indian Ocean is also included . A key separating the species of Sunagocia appears below.
A Method for Adaptive Habit Prediction in Bulk Microphysical Models. Part III: Applications and Studies within a Two-Dimensional Kinematic Model
Authors: Sulia Kara J. , Harrington Jerry Y. , Morrison Hugh
Published: October 2013

Arctic mixed-phase clouds are ubiquitous, and the persistence of supercooled liquid is not well understood. Prior studies of mixed-phase clouds predict a single axis length assuming spherical particles or mass–dimensional relationships derived from in situ data. These methods cannot mechanistically evolve particle shape, leading to inaccuracies in estimates of mixed-phase lifetime. Parts I and II of this study report on the development and parcel model testing of an adaptive habit parameterization that predicts two bulk crystal lengths. The method is implemented into a two-dimensional kinematic model in which the dynamic flow field is prescribed, allowing for sedimentation and separate advection of length mixing ratios.

Similar to other studies, results show that mass–dimensional relationships produce large variation of phase, despite similar choice in particle type. Results with evolving ice habit promote phase maintenance in cases where mass–dimensional methods glaciate the layers. Adaptive habit simulations with sedimentation increase cloud lifetime at higher ice concentrations but can also lead to lower liquid amounts. Radiative cooling initially increases ice growth with a subsequent enhanced sedimentation flux, altering cloud-phase partitioning dependent on ice concentration. Surface latent and sensible heat fluxes of 50 W m−2 result in an increase in overall water mass, while compensating fluxes establish sufficient energy and mass amounts for liquid and ice maintenance. These studies provide insight into the fluxes that may be necessary for mixed-phase cloud maintenance.
Weakening Trend of the Tropical Easterly Jet Stream of the Boreal Summer Monsoon Season 1950–2009
Authors: Abish B. , Joseph P. V. , Johannessen Ola M.
Published: October 2013

Recent research has reported that the tropical easterly jet stream (TEJ) of the boreal summer monsoon season is weakening. The analysis herein using 60 yr (1950–2009) of data reveals that this weakening of the TEJ is due to the decreasing trend in the upper tropospheric meridional temperature gradient over the area covered by the TEJ. During this period, the upper troposphere over the equatorial Indian Ocean has warmed due to enhanced deep moist convection associated with the rapid warming of the equatorial Indian Ocean. At the same time, a cooling of the upper troposphere has taken place over the Northern Hemisphere subtropics including the Tibetan anticyclone. The simultaneous cooling of the subtropics and the equatorial heating has caused a decrease in the upper tropospheric meridional thermal gradient. The consequent reduction in the strength of the easterly thermal wind has resulted in the weakening of the TEJ.
Insulin-like growth factor-II and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2 prospectively predict longitudinal elevation of HDL-cholesterol in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Narayanan Ram P , Fu Bo , Oliver Robert L , Siddals Kirk W , Donn Rachelle , Hudson Julie E , White Anne , Laing Ian , Ollier William ER , Heald Adrian H , Gibson JM
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Associations of insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) with cardiovascular risk have been inadequately studied. We hypothesized that IGF-II and IGFBP-2 associate with longitudinal trends in lipid profiles in type 2 diabetes patients.

Subjects and methods

Four hundred and eighty nine subjects with type 2 diabetes (age 27–87 years) from the Salford Diabetes Cohort were studied. Longitudinal clinical information was extracted for an eight-year period (2002–2009) from an integrated electronic dataset of primary care and hospital data.

Results

There were 294 male subjects and mean age was 62.9 years. At baseline, IGF-II concentration was 602 ng/mL. HDL cholesterol at baseline was associated with log-IGF-II concentration in a model adjusted for age, gender, baseline body-mass index (BMI), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and lipid-lowering therapy. IGFBP-1 and IGFBP-2 were associated with high HDL-cholesterol. A higher circulating IGF-II concentration at baseline was also associated with longitudinal increase in HDL-cholesterol in mixed-effects regression analyses independent of IGF-I, IGFBP-1, IGFBP-2, IGFBP-3, age, gender, eGFR, BMI and lipid-lowering therapy. Log-transformed baseline concentrations of IGFBP-1 and IGFBP-2 were also associated with longitudinal elevation in HDL-cholesterol. No association was observed for IGF-II or IGFBP-2 with longitudinal LDL cholesterol trends.

Conclusion

Our analyses based on ‘real world’ data demonstrate that higher baseline IGF-II and IGFBP-2 predict increased HDL concentration over time, implicating IGF-II in modulation of circulating HDL-cholesterol concentrations.
The Feasibility and Accuracy of Using a Remote Method to Assess Computer Workstations
Authors: Baker Nancy A. , Jacobs Karen
Published: October 2013

Objective:

The objective was to test the accuracy of using remote methods (tele-ergonomics) to identify potential mismatches between workers and their computer workstations.

Background:

Remote access to ergonomic assessments and interventions using two-way interactive communications, tele-ergonomics, increases the ability to deliver computer ergonomic services. However, this mode of delivery must first be tested for accuracy.

Method:

In this single group study, the computer workstations of 30 participants who reported mild to moderate discomfort were remotely assessed using photographs taken by a research assistant and the self-report Computer Workstation Checklist (CWC) completed by the study participant. Mismatches identified remotely by an ergonomics expert were compared to results obtained from an onsite computer workstation visit completed by the same expert.

Results:

We accurately identified 92% of mismatches. The method was more sensitive (0.97) than specific (0.88), indicating that experts using the remote method were likely to overidentify mismatches.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that an expert using the self-reported CWC combined with workstation photographs can accurately identify mismatches between workers and their computer workstations.

Application:

Remote assessment is a promising method to improve access to computer workstation ergonomic assessments.
Multiple Imputation of Squared Terms
Authors: Vink Gerko , van Buuren Stef
Published: October 2013

We propose a new multiple imputation technique for imputing squares. Current methods yield either unbiased regression estimates or preserve data relations. No method, however, seems to deliver both, which limits researchers in the implementation of regression analysis in the presence of missing data. Besides, current methods only work under a missing completely at random (MCAR) mechanism. Our method for imputing squares uses a polynomial combination. The proposed method yields both unbiased regression estimates, while preserving the quadratic relations in the data for both missing at random and MCAR mechanisms.
The price of ‘progress’? From Senghenydd to Savar
Authors: Seabrook Jeremy
Published: October 2013

The response to the disaster of the clothing factories’ collapse in Savar, just outside Dhaka, in April 2013 with the loss of over 1,100 young lives, echoes the reaction to the greatest industrial calamity ever to have occurred in Britain. This took place in 1913, exactly one hundred years earlier – the Senghenydd pit disaster, which claimed the lives of 439 miners. Predictably, in the West in 2013, the conscience of the penitent cheaply clad took precedence over the actual lives of the producers of their apparel. The ‘humanitarian’ hand-wringing hides a deeper assumption, namely, that since ‘we’ have known such disasters on our journey towards prosperity, ‘they’ too, must expect a similar experience; built, as it is, into the nature of progress.
Islamophobia: Burma’s racist fault-line
Authors: Green Penny
Published: October 2013

The author, who has interviewed human rights activists in Burma, analyses the deeply entrenched and unchecked Islamophobia against the Rohingya, who have lived at least two centuries in Burma and yet are refused citizenship. They and Muslims from around the country have been subject to a recent deadly wave of anti-Muslim violence and yet politicians, including Aung San Suu Kyi, are unwilling to address the institutionalised racism, emphasising that constitutional change has to come first. The persecution of the Rohingya will continue, argues the author, while foreign governments are so willing to make political and economic deals with the racist former junta.
UK: the way to pariah status in Europe
Authors: Webber Frances
Published: October 2013

British government ministers’ use of nativist arguments to propose the removal of the basic protection of the European Court of Human Rights is causing alarm in the rest of Europe. The bid to repeal the Human Rights Act and diminish the role of the European Court of Human Rights in the UK is, the author argues, a sign of the resurgent influence of the Eurosceptic Right. Behind the rhetoric of repatriating power to the UK lies a preoccupation with halting immigration from Europe. The government’s stigmatisation of marginalised communities – Muslim, migrant and those on welfare – is paving the way for a steady erosion of rights enshrined in the Human Rights Convention.
Canadian Nursing Students and the Care of Older Patients
Authors: Gould Odette N. , Dupuis-Blanchard Suzanne , MacLennan Anna
Published: October 2013

The aim of this research was to contribute to an understanding about the professionalization of gerontological nursing. The specific objective was to explore attitudes about older people among undergraduate nursing students. Three focus groups were carried out with 3rd-year nursing students in a generalist program in a small Canadian city and discussions focused on experiences and attitudes surrounding the care of older patients. A qualitative descriptive approach was used to analyze the verbatim transcripts. Results indicated that students had positive reactions to caring for older patients, at least when dementia is not present, but they received a strong message from their mentors that this type of nursing is neither prestigious nor valued. Discussions surrounding the care of older adults highlighted students’ perceptions of conflicts between the art and science of nursing, and their concerns regarding the divisions of tasks between nursing students, registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses.
In silico interaction of methyl isocyanate with immune protein responsible for Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection using molecular docking
Authors: Shrivastava Rahul , Yasir Mohammad , Tripathi Manish , Singh Pushpendra
Published: October 2013

This article reports in silico analysis of methyl isocyanate (MIC) on different key immune proteins against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The analysis shows that MIC is released in the Bhopal gas tragedy in 1984, which is highly toxic and extremely hazardous to human health. In this study, we have selected immune proteins to perform molecular docking with the help of Autodock 4.0. Results show that the CD40 ligand and alpha5beta1 integrin have higher inhibition compared to plasminogen activator urokinase, human glutathione synthetase, mitogen-activated protein kinase (P38 MAPK 14), surfactant protein-B, -D (SP-D), and pulmonary SP-D. MIC interacted with His-125, Try-146 residue of CD40 ligand and Ala-149, and Arg-152 residue of alpha5beta1 integrin and affects the proteins functioning by binding on their active sites. These inhibitory conformations were energetically and statistically favored and supported the evidence from wet laboratory experiments reported in the literature. We can conclude that MIC directly or indirectly affects these proteins, which shows that survivals of the disaster suffer from the diseases like tuberculosis infection and lung cancer.
Target hazard quotient evaluation of cadmium and lead in fish from Caspian Sea
Authors: Basim Yalda , Khoshnood Zahra
Published: October 2013

Heavy metals are being increasingly released into the natural waters from geological and anthropogenic sources. The distributions of several heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) were investigated in muscle and liver of three different fish species seasonally collected from Caspian Sea (autumn 2011–summer 2012). The concentrations of all metals were lower in flesh than those recorded in liver due to their physiological roles. The target hazard quotient (THQ) index for fish was calculated. Estimation of THQ calculations for the contaminated fish consumption was calculated to evaluate the effect of pollution on health. Total metal THQ values of Pb and Cd for adults were 0.05 and 0.04 in Anzali and Noshahr, respectively, and for children were 0.08 and 0.05 in Anzali and Noshahr, respectively.
Antioxidant profile of constituents isolated from Polygonatumverticillatum rhizomes
Authors: Khan Haroon , Saeed Muhammad , Muhammad Naveed , Rauf Abdur , Khan Amir Zada , Ullah Rooh
Published: October 2013

The purpose of the current study was to estimate the antioxidant profile of two compounds, diosgenin and santonin, isolated from Polygonatum verticillatum rhizomes. Stable free radical, 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and reducing power assays were employed for this purpose. The results showed profound free radical scavenging effect of both diosgenin and santonin in a concentration-dependent manner. The calculated half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for both diosgenin and santonin was 65.80 and 50.03 μg/ml, respectively. Similarly, in reducing power assay, diosgenin and santonin exhibited marked quenching effect. The corresponding IC50 values for both the compounds were 62.10 and 46.40 μg/ml, respectively. In conclusion, both the isolated compounds have strong antioxidant potential, which is consistent with the results of the extracts of the plant.
Ethical Issues Surrounding Interprofessional Collaboration
Authors: Milton Constance L.
Published: October 2013

Global healthcare and health disciplines’ education policy and position statements contain mandates for education that incorporates interprofessional collaboration. One of the popular educational technologies involves virtual simulation as tools for educating future generations of healthcare professionals. This article discusses potential ethical implications for interprofessional collaboration from a humanbecoming lens of understanding.
Protecting the Discipline
Authors: Florczak Kristine L.
Published: October 2013

Collaboration has become requisite for the funding of research by the federal government because of the complex nature of health problems facing the nation. This column will present ideas from the National Institute of Health, the Institute of Medicine, the National Institute of Nursing Research, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing that confirm the need for collaboration. The terms multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary research will be considered as they apply to successful nursing research in light of loosely coupled systems. Finally, suggestions for productive interdisciplinary research will be put forth for the reader’s consideration.
Thoughts About Multidisciplinary, Interdisciplinary, and Transdisciplinary Research
Authors: Fawcett Jacqueline
Published: October 2013

This essay focuses on multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary research. The definitions and objectives for these three types of multiple discipline research are given. Discussion centers on the gains and losses that may be experienced by individual nurses who engage in such research, as well as gains and losses for the discipline of nursing.
Robust H∞ guaranteed cost control for uncertain switched descriptor delayed systems with nonlinear disturbance
Authors: Yang Kun , Shen Yanxia , Ji Zhicheng
Published: October 2013

This article considers the issues of robust [Formula: see text] guaranteed cost control and memory state feedback stabilization for a class of uncertain switched descriptor delayed systems with nonlinear disturbance. Sufficient conditions for the existences of robust [Formula: see text] guaranteed cost controller in terms of linear matrix inequalities and switching strategy are proposed based on generalized Lyapunov function and convex optimization approach, and the memory state feedback controller ensures that the closed-loop systems satisfy the guaranteed cost function with a prescribed [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]-disturbance attenuation. Moreover, a convex optimization problem with linear matrix inequality constraints is formulated and solved by mean of the linear matrix inequality toolbox, and the optimal [Formula: see text] guaranteed cost memory state feedback controller with an upper bound of cost function is obtained. Finally, a numerical example illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Pneumocystis Pneumonia in Patients Treated With Long-Term Steroid Therapy for Symptom Palliation
Authors: Yamaguchi Takashi , Nagai Yuki , Morita Tatsuya , Kiuchi Daisuke , Matsumoto Mina , Hisahara Ko , Hisanaga Takayuki
Published: October 2013

We report 3 cases of pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in patients with advanced cancer who received palliative care. All patients received long-term steroid therapy for symptom management. A diagnosis of PCP was based on clinical symptoms and a positive Pneumocystis jiroveci polymerase chain reaction test from induced sputum specimens. Despite appropriate treatment, only 1 patient recovered from PCP. Long-term steroid, often prescribed in palliative care settings, is the most common risk factor for PCP in non-HIV patients. Pneumocystis pneumonia may cause distressing symptoms such as severe dyspnea, and the mortality rate is high. Therefore, it is important to consider PCP prophylaxis for high-risk patients and to diagnose PCP early and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate PCP-related symptoms and avert unnecessary shortening of a patient’s life expectancy.
Neighborhood Change in Metropolitan America, 1990 to 2010
Authors: Wei Fang , Knox Paul L.
Published: October 2013

Using k-means cluster analysis and discriminant analysis, this study systematically examines the trajectories of neighborhood change at the census tract level between 1990 and 2010 for all metropolitan and micropolitan areas of the United States. Seven types of neighborhoods are identified using a visualization technique of clustergram and other statistical tests. A sequence of neighborhood change has been identified. This research reveals the primarily stable nature of neighborhoods and the polarization of inequality in neighborhoods. Understanding changes that are not within the category of either downgrading or upgrading is very important for policy makers and practitioners in providing appropriate local services, support, or opportunities for the residents.
Implications of Network Structure on Public Health Collaboratives
Authors: Retrum Jessica H. , Chapman Carrie L. , Varda Danielle M.
Published: October 2013

Interorganizational collaboration is an essential function of public health agencies. These partnerships form social networks that involve diverse types of partners and varying levels of interaction. Such collaborations are widely accepted and encouraged, yet very little comparative research exists on how public health partnerships develop and evolve, specifically in terms of how subsequent network structures are linked to outcomes. A systems science approach, that is, one that considers the interdependencies and nested features of networks, provides the appropriate methods to examine the complex nature of these networks. Applying Mays and Scutchfields’s categorization of “structural signatures” (breadth, density, and centralization), this research examines how network structure influences the outcomes of public health collaboratives. Secondary data from the Program to Analyze, Record, and Track Networks to Enhance Relationships ( www.partnertool.net ) data set are analyzed. This data set consists of dyadic ( N = 12,355), organizational ( N = 2,486), and whole network ( N = 99) data from public health collaborations around the United States. Network data are used to calculate structural signatures and weighted least squares regression is used to examine how network structures can predict selected intermediary outcomes (resource contributions, overall value and trust rankings, and outcomes) in public health collaboratives. Our findings suggest that network structure may have an influence on collaborative-related outcomes. The structural signature that had the most significant relationship to outcomes was density, with higher density indicating more positive outcomes. Also significant was the finding that more breadth creates new challenges such as difficulty in reaching consensus and creating ties with other members. However, assumptions that these structural components lead to improved outcomes for public health collaboratives may be slightly premature. Implications of these findings for research and practice are discussed.
Exploring Behavioral Markers of Long-Term Physical Activity Maintenance
Authors: Hekler Eric B. , Buman Matthew P. , Poothakandiyil Nikhil , Rivera Daniel E. , Dzierzewski Joseph M. , Aiken Morgan Adrienne , McCrae Christina S. , Roberts Beverly L. , Marsiske Michael , Giacobbi Peter R.
Published: October 2013

Efficacious interventions to promote long-term maintenance of physical activity are not well understood. Engineers have developed methods to create dynamical system models for modeling idiographic (i.e., within-person) relationships within systems. In behavioral research, dynamical systems modeling may assist in decomposing intervention effects and identifying key behavioral patterns that may foster behavioral maintenance. The Active Adult Mentoring Program was a 16-week randomized controlled trial of a group-based, peer-delivered physical activity intervention targeting older adults. Time-intensive (i.e., daily) physical activity reports were collected throughout the intervention. We explored differential patterns of behavior among participants who received the active intervention ( N = 34; 88% women, 64.1 ± 8.3 years of age) and either maintained 150 minutes/week of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA; n = 10) or did not ( n = 24) at 18 months following the intervention period. We used dynamical systems modeling to explore whether key intervention components (i.e., self-monitoring, access to an exercise facility, behavioral initiation training, behavioral maintenance training) and theoretically plausible behavioral covariates (i.e., indoor vs. outdoor activity) predicted differential patterns of behavior among maintainers and nonmaintainers. We found that maintainers took longer to reach a steady-state of MVPA. At week 10 of the intervention, nonmaintainers began to drop whereas maintainers increased MVPA. Self-monitoring, behavioral initiation training, percentage of outdoor activity, and behavioral maintenance training, but not access to an exercise facility, were key variables that explained patterns of change among maintainers. Future studies should be conducted to systematically explore these concepts within a priori idiographic (i.e., N-of-1) experimental designs.