bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Junior doctors and healthcare reforms: are they ready? A questionnaire study
Authors: Palazzo Stefano , Chehab Omar
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To assess the awareness, understanding and opinions of National Health Service (NHS) reforms among foundation year junior doctors.

Design

Participants completed a 16 question online survey, consisting of multiple-choice questions and questions with free text responses.

Setting

Foundation doctors were all working within one of the four London, Oxford or Severn foundation schools.

Participants

One hundred and two foundation year junior doctors.

Main outcome measures

Understanding and awareness of NHS reforms and health politics in general as assessed through six free text and multiple-choice answers to a set of basic factual questions. Opinions of the reforms were assessed through Likert scale (1–5) responses to seven questions.

Results

Basic understanding of health politics and NHS reforms was poor, even on issues affecting future training. A total of 17.7% could not name the health secretary, 66.7% did not know the budget of the NHS and 71.6% did not know who would be responsible for healthcare commissioning after the reforms. A total of 68.7% of respondents reported being interested in the reforms and 63.7% reported being concerned about their effect on their own career path. Despite this, 63.7% self-reported poor understanding of the NHS reforms and 90.2% felt they would value formal education on the current changes.

Conclusions

Despite being interested and concerned, junior doctors are surprisingly uninformed about the NHS reforms. Given the findings of this study, more work needs to be done to educate the current cohort of medical students and foundation year doctors and engage them with the changes taking place.
Oral antiviral therapies for chronic hepatitis C infection
Authors: Pol Stanislas , Corouge Marion , Sogni Philippe
Published: May 2013

The treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with pegylated interferon alpha and ribavirin leads to a sustained virologic response in around 50% of patients with HCV genotype 1, 65% with HCV genotype 4, 75% with HCV genotype 3 and around 80% with HCV genotype 2. A better understanding of the HCV lifecycle has resulted in the development of several potential direct-acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) targeting viral proteins [NS3/4A protease inhibitors, NS5B nucleos(t)idic and non-nucleos(t)idic polymerase inhibitors, NS5A replication complex inhibitors]. This review summarizes the main clinical data for the combinations of oral DAAs. DAAs, either in combination with pegylated interferon alpha or in interferon-free regimens, have demonstrated a high level of antiviral efficacy and a generally well-tolerated safety profile in treatment-naïve patients and in prior nonresponders to pegylated interferon alpha/ribavirin. Oral combination of new DAAs is likely to become the standard of care for chronic HCV in treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced patients. However, most studies so far have included small numbers of ‘easy-to-treat’ patients with short post-treatment periods for defining the sustained virologic response. Extension of the number of treated patients (including ‘difficult-to-treat’ patients, i.e. patients infected with genotype 3, who failed to respond to first-generation protease inhibitors or with cirrhosis as well as immunocompromised patients) and of the post-treatment follow up in a real-life setting could significantly worsen the rate of recovery. In these ‘difficult-to-treat’ patients, the rate of virologic cure with new DAAs could be lower than expected and consequently interferons may be still necessary in combination with the new drugs.
A cross sectional study of colonic diverticulosis in the London Bangladeshi population
Authors: Lahiri Rajiv P , Abeles Aliza , Burnand Katherine M , Alazawi William , Bhattacharya Satyajit , Foster Graham R , Knowles Charles H
Published: May 2013

Background

Diverticular disease is the most common morphological abnormality of the colon and the fifth most important gastrointestinal disease in terms of cost in the Western world. Tower Hamlets is the poorest borough in London containing a large Bangladeshi community. We observed that emergency admissions with complications of colonic diverticulosis were minimal in the Bangladeshi community. The objective was to compare the background prevalence of colonic diverticulosis in Bangladeshis with other ethnicities in patients undergoing colonoscopy at a single centre in Tower Hamlets.

Methods

Four thousand four hundred and fifty‐four consecutive colonoscopy reports over a 2‐year period were retrospectively analysed. Patients under 40 years of age and repeat colonoscopies were excluded, leaving 3151 patients (mean age: 63 years; 48% male). Demographics including ethnicity and medical background were retrieved from the electronic patient record system and findings correlated with the prevalence of other ‘Western’ diseases in the cohort.

Results

Six hundred and thirty out of 3151 (20%) colonoscopies were performed on Bangladeshis. The prevalence of colonic diverticulosis was significantly lower in Bangladeshis (17/630: 2.7%) than Caucasians (673/1869: 36%), Indians/Pakistanis (16/161: 9.9%), Oriental (15/44: 34%) and Black (90/369: 24.4%) patient groups (χ2 p  < 0.0001 for all comparisons). The prevalence of classical sigmoid diverticulosis in the Bangladeshi cohort was only 1.0%, despite significantly more Bangladeshi patients undergoing colonoscopy for abdominal pain (p  < 0.0001, χ2 ) and diarrhoea (p  < 0.0034, χ2 ). There was also a significantly greater incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and ischaemic heart disease (p  < 0.0001, χ2 ) in Bangladeshi patients.

Conclusions

There is a negligible prevalence of colonic diverticulosis in the Bangladeshi population of London who undergo colonoscopy. This is in spite of a high incidence of type 2 diabetes and ischaemic heart disease. The effect of diet and genetics on the prevalence of colonic diverticulosis in Bangladeshis is not known and merits further investigation.
Gastric obstruction after endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Kakushima Naomi , Tanaka Masaki , Sawai Hiroaki , Imai Kenichiro , Kawata Noboru , Hagiwara Tomoko , Takao Toshitatsu , Hotta Kinichi , Yamaguchi Yuichiro , Takizawa Kohei , Matsubayashi Hiroyuki , Ono Hiroyuki
Published: May 2013

Background

Bleeding and perforation are two major complications of gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). There are only a few reports concerning gastric obstruction related to ESD in the stomach.

Objective

The aim of this study was to clarify the clinicopathological features of patients who experienced gastric obstruction after gastric ESD.

Methods

Clinicopathological data of 1878 patients who underwent gastric ESD from September 2002 to December 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Data of lesion location, circumference, circumferential extent of ESD ulcer, specimen diameter, depth of cancer, ulcer findings within the lesion, curability of ESD, number of simultaneous lesions, and occurrence of post‐operative bleeding and perforation were collected. The risk of gastric obstruction regarding lesion and procedure related factors were assessed, and treatment for these patients was studied.

Results

Gastric obstruction was observed in 2.5% of the patients (47/1878). Symptoms occurred in a median of 24 days after ESD. The incidence among patients with lesions in the upper part of the stomach was 4.7% (17/316), 0.36% (3/818) in the middle, and 3.8% (27/699) in the lower part. In relation to the circumferential extent, the incidence was 50% (33/66) among patients with a resection of >75% of the circumference. Stenosis was observed in 87% (41/47) of patients with gastric obstruction. Endoscopic balloon dilation was performed in 45 patients. Perforation due to EBD occurred in four patients; one was referred to surgery.

Conclusions

Patients with a wide resection of >75% of the circumference should be considered for early repeat endoscopy after ESD, and dilation should be performed with caution if found to have stenosis.
Application of nanoengineering to research and development and production of high strength steel sheets
Authors: Seto K. , Matsuda H.
Published: May 2013

The design concepts and properties of three unique high strength steel sheets developed utilising nanoengineering are reviewed. The first steel is developed by optimising the distribution of nanoprecipitates and exhibits low yielding ratio in spite of being strengthened by grain refinement and precipitation hardening. The second is the ferrite single phase tensile strength 780 MPa grade advanced high strength steel sheet utilising the thermally stable nanosized precipitates, which possesses significantly well balanced elongation and stretch flangeability. These two were already commercialised. The last is the ultrahigh strength steel, of which the formability is enhanced by optimising the combination of hard phases. The steel consists of bainite, retained austenite and tempered martensite and exhibits 35 of elongation with 1470 MPa of tensile strength. Although further optimisation of the composition and the processing are needed to produce and commercialise the steel, the results indicate that the approach has the potential to improve formability dramatically.
Effect of heat treatment on erosive wear behaviour of Ti6Al4V alloy
Authors: Fidan S , Avcu E , Karakulak E , Yamanoglu R , Zeren M , Sinmazcelik T
Published: May 2013

In this paper, the erosive wear behaviour of Ti6Al4V alloy depending on various heat treatment conditions was evaluated. It is aimed to understand the relationship between the microstructure and the erosion rate of Ti6Al4V alloys. Furthermore, the hardness and the surface morphology variations depending on the annealing parameters and the effects of these parameters on the erosion behaviour of the annealed Ti6Al4V alloy were also considered. Moreover, eroded surfaces of samples were examined by using a scanning electron microscope in order to understand dominant material removal mechanisms depending on the annealing parameters. Results showed that the aging process has dramatically affected the erosion resistance of Ti6Al4V alloy. The microstructure and the hardness of the samples have significantly affected the erosion resistance of the alloy. Surprisingly, erosion resistance decreased when the hardness increased. Finally, SEM investigations of the eroded surfaces of the heat treated samples showed that microcutting and microploughing were the dominant erosion mechanisms occurred during the erosion process.
Fe–15 wt-Cr–X wt-C hardfacing surface layer: Wear resistance and its enhanced mechanism with C additive
Authors: Yang J , Yang Y L , Jiao X Y , Zhou Y F , Qi X W , Ren X J , Yang Q X
Published: May 2013

An electrode with different C additives was developed. The microstructure of the hardfacing surface layer was observed by optical microscopy. The phase structure was determined by X-ray diffraction. The hardness and wear resistance of the hardfacing surface layer were measured respectively. The worn-out surface and three-dimensional morphology were observed by field emission scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry. The relation curve between mass fraction of M7C3 carbide and temperature was calculated according to thermodynamics software Thermo-Calc. The results show that, with the increase in C additive, the hardfacing surface layer changes from a hypoeutectic structure to a hypereutectic one. Meanwhile, the primary phase changes from austenite to carbide. The hardness and wear resistance of the hardfacing surface layer increase gradually with the increase in C additive, and when the C additive is 25 wt-, they are the largest. With the increase in C content, the precipitation temperature of M7C3 decreases from 1280 to 1260°C, while the maximum amount of M7C3 increases instead, which is from 0·154 to 0·313. The reason of the improvement for wear resistance of the hardfacing surface layer is that the carbide initiates and the amount of M7C3 increases.
A distinct evolution of the T-cell repertoire categorizes treatment refractory gastrointestinal acute graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Meyer Everett H. , Hsu Andro R. , Liliental Joanna , Löhr Andrea , Florek Mareike , Zehnder James L. , Strober Sam , Lavori Philip , Miklos David B. , Johnson David S. , Negrin Robert S.
Published: May 2013

Key Points

T-cell clones identified in the GI tract of patients with steroid-refractory acute GI GVHD expand in the blood with disease progression. The T-cell repertoire in the GI tract of steroid-refractory patients at the time of diagnosis is more similar than for responsive patients.
Real-time interactive data mining for chemical imaging information: application to automated histopathology
Authors: Mayerich David , Walsh Michael , Schulmerich Matthew , Bhargava Rohit
Published: May 2013

Background

Vibrational spectroscopic imaging is now used in several fields to acquire molecular information from microscopically heterogeneous systems. Recent advances have led to promising applications in tissue analysis for cancer research, where chemical information can be used to identify cell types and disease. However, recorded spectra are affected by the morphology of the tissue sample, making identification of chemical structures difficult.

Results

Extracting features that can be used to classify tissue is a cumbersome manual process which limits this technology from wide applicability. In this paper, we describe a method for interactive data mining of spectral features using GPU-based manipulation of the spectral distribution.

Conclusions

This allows researchers to quickly identify chemical features corresponding to cell type. These features are then applied to tissue samples in order to visualize the chemical composition of the tissue without the use of chemical stains.
Genotype imputation accuracy in a F2 pig population using high density and low density SNP panels
Authors: Gualdrón Duarte Jose L , Bates Ronald O , Ernst Catherine W , Raney Nancy E , Cantet Rodolfo JC , Steibel Juan P
Published: May 2013

Background

F2 resource populations have been used extensively to map QTL segregating between pig breeds. A limitation associated with the use of these resource populations for fine mapping of QTL is the reduced number of founding individuals and recombinations of founding haplotypes occurring in the population. These limitations, however, become advantageous when attempting to impute unobserved genotypes using within family segregation information. A trade-off would be to re-type F2 populations using high density SNP panels for founding individuals and low density panels (tagSNP) in F2 individuals followed by imputation. Subsequently a combined meta-analysis of several populations would provide adequate power and resolution for QTL mapping, and could be achieved at relatively low cost. Such a strategy allows the wealth of phenotypic information that has previously been obtained on experimental resource populations to be further mined for QTL identification. In this study we used experimental and simulated high density genotypes (HD-60K) from an F2 cross to estimate imputation accuracy under several genotyping scenarios.

Results

Selection of tagSNP using physical distance or linkage disequilibrium information produced similar imputation accuracies. In particular, tagSNP sets averaging 1 SNP every 2.1 Mb (1,200 SNP genome-wide) yielded imputation accuracies (IA) close to 0.97. If instead of using custom panels, the commercially available 9K chip is used in the F2, IA reaches 0.99. In order to attain such high imputation accuracy the F0 and F1 generations should be genotyped at high density. Alternatively, when only the F0 is genotyped at HD, while F1 and F2 are genotyped with a 9K panel, IA drops to 0.90.

Conclusions

Combining 60K and 9K panels with imputation in F2 populations is an appealing strategy to re-genotype existing populations at a fraction of the cost.
Competing-risk analysis of death and dialysis initiation among elderly (≥80 years) newly referred to nephrologists: a French prospective study
Authors: Faller Bernadette , Beuscart Jean-Baptiste , Frimat Luc ,   and on behalf of the ‘Association des néphrologues de l’Est’
Published: May 2013

Background

Reasons underlying dialysis decision-making in Octogenarians and Nonagenarians have not been further explored in prospective studies.

Methods

This regional, multicentre, non-interventional and prospective study was aimed to describe characteristics and quality of life (QoL) of elderly (≥80 years of age) with advanced chronic kidney disease (stage 3b-5 CKD) newly referred to nephrologists. Predictive factors of death and dialysis initiation were also assessed using competing-risk analyses.

Results

All 155 included patients had an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 45 ml/min/1.73 m2. Most patients had a non anaemic haemoglobin level (Hb) with no iron deficiency, and normal calcium and phosphate levels. They were well-fed and had a normal cognitive function and a good QoL. The 3-year probabilities of death and dialysis initiation reached 27% and 11%, respectively. The leading causes of death were cardiovascular (32%), cachexia (18%), cancer (9%), infection (3%), trauma (3%), dementia (3%), and unknown (32%). The reasons for dialysis initiation were based on uncontrolled biological abnormalities, such as hyperkalemia or acidosis (71%), uncontrolled digestive disorders (35%), uncontrolled pulmonary or peripheral oedema (29%), and uncontrolled malnutrition (12%). No patients with acute congestive heart failure or cancer initiated dialysis. Predictors of death found in both multivariate regression models (Cox and Fine & Gray) included acute congestive heart failure, age, any walking impairment and Hb <10 g/dL. Regarding dialysis initiation, eGFR <23 mL/min/1.73 m2 was the only predictor found in the Cox multivariate regression model whereas eGFR <23 mL/min/1.73 m2 and diastolic blood pressure were both independently associated with dialysis initiation in the Fine & Gray analysis. Such findings suggested that death and dialysis were independent events.

Conclusions

Octogenarians and Nonagenarians newly referred to nephrologists by general practitioners were highly selected patients, without any symptoms of the common geriatric syndrome. In this population, nephrologists’ dialysis decision was based exclusively on uremic criteria.
Measures of satisfaction with care during labour and birth: a comparative review
Authors: Sawyer Alexandra , Ayers Susan , Abbott Jane , Gyte Gillian , Rabe Heike , Duley Lelia
Published: May 2013

Background

Satisfaction is the one of the most frequently reported outcome measures for quality of care. Assessment of satisfaction with maternity services is crucial, and psychometrically sound measures are needed if this is to inform health practices. This paper comparatively reviews current measures of satisfaction with care during labour and birth.

Methods

A review of the literature was conducted. Studies were located through computerised databases and hand searching references of identified articles and reviews. Inclusion criteria were that the questionnaire was a multi-item scale of satisfaction with care during labour and birth, and some form of psychometric information (either information about questionnaire construction, or reliability, or validity) had to be reported.

Results

Nine questionnaires of satisfaction with care during labour and birth were identified. Instruments varied in psychometric properties and dimensions. Most described questionnaire construction and tested some form of reliability and validity. Measures were generally not based on the main theoretical models of satisfaction and varied in scope and application to different types of samples (e.g. satisfaction following caesarean section). For an in-depth measure of satisfaction with intrapartum care, the Intrapartal-Specific Quality from the Patient’s Perspective questionnaire (QPP-I) is recommended. Brief measures with good reliability and validity are provided by the Six Simple Questions (SSQ) or Perceptions of Care Adjective Checklist (PCACL-R).

Conclusions

Despite the interest in measures of satisfaction there are only a small number of validated measures of satisfaction with care during labour and birth. It is important that brief, reliable and valid measures are available for use in general and specific populations in order to assist research and inform practice.
Burden of self-reported acute gastrointestinal illness in China: a population-based survey
Authors: Chen Yan , Yan Wei-Xing , Zhou Yi-Jing , Zhen Shi-Qi , Zhang Rong-Hua , Chen Jiang , Liu Zhan-Hua , Cheng Heng-Yi , Liu Hong , Duan Sheng-Gang , Lan Zhen , Sun Ji-Chang , You Xing-Yong , Li Jing-Guang , Wu Yong-Ning
Published: May 2013

Background

Acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI) is an important public-health problem worldwide. Previous national studies of the incidence of AGI in China were performed decades ago, and detailed information was not available. This study therefore sought to determine the magnitude, distribution, and burden of self-reported AGI in China.

Methods

Twelve-month, retrospective face-to-face surveys were conducted in 20 sentinel sites from six provinces between July 2010 and July 2011.

Results

In total, 39686 interviews were completed. The overall adjusted monthly prevalence of AGI was 4.2% (95% confidence interval, 4.0–4.4), corresponding to 0.56 episodes of AGI per person-year. Rates of AGI were highest in children aged < 5 years. Healthcare was sought by 56.1% of those reporting illness. Of the cases who visited a doctor, 32.7% submitted a stool sample. The use of antibiotics was reported by 49.7% of the cases who sought medical care and 54.0% took antidiarrhoeals. In the multivariable model, gender, age, education, household type, residence, season, province and travel were significant risk factors of being a case of AGI.

Conclusions

This first population-based study in China indicated that AGI represents a substantial burden of health. Further research into the specific pathogens is needed to better estimate the burden of AGI and foodborne disease in China.
The classical progesterone receptor mediates the rapid reduction of fallopian tube ciliary beat frequency by progesterone
Authors: Bylander Anna , Lind Karin , Goksör Mattias , Billig Håkan , Larsson DG Joakim
Published: May 2013

Background

The transport of gametes as well as the zygote is facilitated by motile cilia lining the inside of the fallopian tube. Progesterone reduces the ciliary beat frequency within 30 minutes in both cows and mice. This rapid reduction suggest the involvement of a non-genomic signaling mechanism, although it is not known which receptors that are involved. Here we investigated the possible involvement of the classical progesterone receptor in this process.

Method

The ciliary beat frequency of mice fallopian tube was measured ex vivo using an inverted bright field microscope and a high speed camera. The effects of the agonists progesterone and promegestone and an antagonist, mifeprestone, were investigated in wildtype mice. The effect of progesterone was also investigated in mice lacking the classical progesterone receptor.

Results

Progesterone, as well as the more specific PR agonist promegestone, significantly reduced the CBF at concentrations of 10–100 nanomolar within 10–30 minutes. In the absence of progesterone, the PR antagonist mifeprestone had no effect on the ciliary beat frequency at a concentration of 1 micromolar. When ciliated cells were pre-incubated with 1 micromolar mifeprestone, addition of progesterone did not reduce the ciliary beat frequency. Accordingly, in ciliated cells from mice not expressing the classical progesterone receptor, exposure to 100 nanomolar progesterone did not reduce the ciliary beat frequency.

Conclusions

This is the first study to provide comprehensive evidence that the classical progesterone receptor mediates the rapid reduction of the tubal ciliary beat frequency by progesterone.
Maternal nutrient restriction in the ewe from early to midgestation programs reduced steroidogenic enzyme expression and tended to reduce progesterone content of corpora lutea, as well as circulating progesterone in nonpregnant aged female offspring
Authors: Long Nathan M , Tuersunjiang Nuermaimaiti , George Lindsey A , Lemley Caleb O , Ma Yan , Murdoch William J , Nathanielsz Peter W , Ford Stephen P
Published: May 2013

Background

Previously we reported decreased circulating progesterone and fertility in one and two year old ewes born to undernourished mothers. This study was designed to investigate if this reduction in progesterone persisted into old age, and if it did, what mechanisms are involved.

Methods

Ewes were fed a nutrient restricted (NR, 50% of NRC recommendations) or control (C, 100% of NRC) diets from day 28 to 78 of gestation, then all were fed to requirements through parturition and weaning. Female offspring (4 per treatment group) were maintained as a group and fed to requirements from weaning until assigned to this study at 6 years of age. Ewes were synchronized for estrus (day 0) and blood samples were collected daily from day 0 to day 11 before necropsy on day 12. Blood serum and luteal tissue were assayed for progesterone concentrations by validated radioimmunoassay.

Results

Circulation progesterone concentrations tended to be lower (P = 0.06) in NR than C offspring from day 0 to 11 of the estrous cycle. While total luteal weight was similar across groups, total progesterone content also tended to be reduced (P = 0.07) in luteal tissue of NR than C offspring. Activity of hepatic progesterone catabolizing enzymes and selected angiogenic factors in luteal tissue were similar between groups. Messenger RNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes StAR and P450scc were reduced (P < 0.05), while protein expression of StAR tended to be reduced (P < 0.07) and P450scc was reduced (P < 0.05) in luteal tissue of NR versus C offspring.

Conclusions

There appears to be no difference in hepatic steroid catabolism that could have led to the decreased serum progesterone. However, these data are consistent with the programming of decreased steroidogenic enzyme expression in CL of NR offspring, leading to reduced synthesis and secretion of progesterone.
Enhanced efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells doped with green phosphors LaPO4:Ce, Tb or (Mg, Zn)Al11O19:Eu
Authors: Hong Chang Kook , Ko Hyun-Seok , Han Eun-Mi , Yun Je-Jung , Park Kyung-Hee
Published: May 2013

We have successfully introduced green phosphors LaPO4:Ce, Tb (G4) or (Mg, Zn)Al11O19:Eu (G2) into TiO2 photoelectrode of dye-sensitized solar cells. The conversion efficiency of the G4-doped device was enhanced by 30% compared with the pristine TiO2 photoelectrode. The green phosphor doped at 5-wt.% ratio contributed to the reduction of resistances of the surface and interface of the photoelectrode and to the great enhancement of the absorption spectrum in UV-visible and near-infrared regions. The internal resistances and absorbance of the photoelectrode directly affect the power conversion efficiency. Green phosphor plays an important role towards the realization of high-efficiency dye-sensitized solar cells.
Drug eluting balloons for de novocoronary lesions – a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fröhlich Georg M , Lansky Alexandra J , Ko Dennis T , Archangelidi Olga , De Palma Rodney , Timmis Adam , Meier Pascal
Published: May 2013

Background

The role of drug-eluting balloons (DEB) is unclear. Increasing evidence has shown a benefit for the treatment of in-stent restenosis. Its effect on de novo coronary lesions is more controversial. Several smaller randomized trials found conflicting results.

Methods

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating the effect of local Paclitaxel delivery/drug eluting balloons (DEB) (+/− bare metal stent) compared to current standard therapy (stenting) to treat de novo coronary lesions. Data sources for RCT were identified through a literature search from 2005 through 28 December 2012. The main endpoints of interest were target lesion revascularization (TLR), major adverse cardiac events (MACE), binary in-segment restenosis, stent thrombosis (ST), myocardial infarction (MI), late lumen loss (LLL) and mortality. A random effects model was used to calculate the pooled relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Eight studies (11 subgroups) and a total of 1,706 patients were included in this analysis. Follow-up duration ranged from 6 to 12 months. Overall, DEB showed similar results to the comparator treatment. The relative risk (RR) for MACE was 0.95 (0.64 to 1.39); P = 0.776, for mortality it was 0.79 (0.30 to 2.11), P = 0.644, for stent thrombosis it was 1.45 (0.42 to 5.01), P = 0.560, for MI it was 1.26 (0.49 to 3.21), P = 0.629, for TLR it was 1.09 (0.71 to 1.68); P = 0.700 and for binary in-stent restenosis it was 0.96 (0.48 to 1.93), P = 0.918. Compared to bare metal stents (BMS), DEB showed a lower LLL (− 0.26 mm (−0.51 to 0.01)) and a trend towards a lower MACE risk (RR 0.66 (0.43 to 1.02)).

Conclusion

Overall, drug-eluting balloons (+/− bare metal stent) are not superior to current standard therapies (BMS or drug eluting stent (DES)) in treating de novo coronary lesions. However, the performance of DEB seems to lie in between DES and BMS with a trend towards superiority over BMS alone. Therefore, DEB may be considered in patients with contraindications for DES. The heterogeneity between the included studies is a limitation of this meta-analysis; different drug-eluting balloons have been used.
Prognostic impact of postoperative radiation in patients undergoing radical esophagectomy for pathologic lymph node positive esophageal cancer
Authors: Xu Yaping , Liu Jinshi , Du Xianghui , Sun Xiaojiang , Zheng Yuanda , Chen Jianxiang , Li Bo , Liu Wei , Jiang Hao , Mao Weimin
Published: May 2013

Purpose

Though postoperative radiation for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is offered in selected cases, there is conflicting evidence as to whether it improves overall survival (OS). A retrospective investigation was performed to analyze the prognostic impact of postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) in a large cohort of patients.

Methods

From 2001 to 2009, 725 patients underwent radical esophagectomy (R0) with or without PORT were eligible for retrospective analysis. Patients were grouped into surgery alone (n = 467) and surgery plus PORT (n = 258). Median irradiation doses were 50 Gy (range: 40-56 Gy). Radiation fields encompassed the bilateral supraclavicular fossa, mediastinum, subcarinal area, and the tumor bed for the upper/middle-third disease; the bilateral supraclavicular fossa, mediastinum, the tumor bed, subcarinal area, and lower thoracic paraesophageal area for the lower-third disease. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis were used to compare OS.

Results

After median follow-up of 53 months, the median OS was 29 months in the PORT group and 23 months in the surgery alone group. The addition of PORT improved OS at 3 years from 36.6 to 43.6% compared with surgery alone. The use of PORT was associated with significantly improved OS (p = 0.018). For American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage III esophageal cancer (T1-2N2M0, T3N1-2M0, T4N1-3M0), there was significant improvement in OS (p = 0.002) in the PORT group, not only for lymph-node metastatic ratio (LNMR) ≥0.25 (p = 0.001), but also for LNMR <0.25 (p = 0.043). However, for stage IIB disease (T1-2N1M0) there was no significant differences. The addition of POCT didn’t prolong the OS significantly (Surgery alone group, p = 0.079; PORT group, p = 0.111).

Conclusions

This large retrospective analysis supports the use of PORT for pathologic lymph node positive stage III esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Given the retrospective nature of this study, the results should be confirmed by appropriately powered randomized trials. Further development of adjuvant therapy in EC is warranted.
The SFT-1 and OXA-1 respiratory chain complex assembly factors influence lifespan by distinct mechanisms in C. elegans
Authors: Maxwell Sara , Harding Joanne , Brabin Charles , Appleford Peter J , Brown Ruth , Delaney Carol , Brown Garry , Woollard Alison
Published: May 2013

Background

C. elegansmitochondrial (Mit) mutants have disrupted mitochondrial electron transport chain function, yet, surprisingly, they are often long-lived, a property that has offered unique insights into the molecular mechanisms of aging. In this study, we examine the phenotypic consequences of reducing the expression of the respiratory chain complex assembly factorssft-1(homologous to humanSURF1) andoxa-1(homologous to humanOXA1)by RNA interference (RNAi). Mutations in humanSURF1are associated with Leigh syndrome, a neurodegenerative condition of the brain caused by cytochrome oxidase (COX) deficiency. Both SURF1 and OXA1 are integral proteins of the inner mitochondrial membrane, functioning in the COX assembly pathway.

Results

RNAi of both of these genes inC. elegansis associated with increased longevity, but the mechanism by which lifespan is extended is different in each case.sft-1(RNAi)animals display lifespan extension that is dependent on thedaf-16insulin-like signaling pathway, and associated with sensitivity to oxidative stress.oxa-1(RNAi)animals, in contrast, exhibit increased longevity that is at least partially independent ofdaf-16, and associated with a reduced developmental rate and increased resistance to oxidative stress.

Conclusions

This study further delineates the consequences of mitochondrial dysfunction within a whole organism that will ultimately help provide new models for human mitochondrial-associated diseases. The difference in phenotype observed upon down-regulation of these two COX assembly factors, as well as phenotypic differences between these factors and other respiratory chain components analyzed thus far, illustrates the complex inter-relationships that exist among energy metabolism, reproduction and aging even in this simplest of metazoan model organisms.
Dysfunction of the mTOR pathway is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Yates Sharon C , Zafar Amen , Hubbard Paul , Nagy Sheila , Durant Sarah , Bicknell Roy , Wilcock Gordon , Christie Sharon , Esiri Margaret M , Smith A David , Nagy Zsuzsanna
Published: May 2013

Background

The development of disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer’s disease is hampered by our lack of understanding of the early pathogenic mechanisms and the lack of early biomarkers and risk factors.

We have documented the expression pattern of mTOR regulated genes in the frontal cortex of Alzheimer’s disease patients. We have also examined the functional integrity of mTOR signaling in peripheral lymphocytes in Alzheimer’s disease patients relative to healthy controls.

Results

In the brain mTOR is seen to control molecular functions related to cell cycle regulation, cell death and several metabolic pathways. These downstream elements of the mTOR signaling cascade are deregulated in the brain of Alzheimer’s disease patients well before the development of pathology. This dysregulation of the mTOR downstream signaling cascade is not restricted to the brain but appears to be systemic and can be detected in peripheral lymphocytes as a reduced Rapamycin response.

Conclusions

The dysfunction of the signaling pathways downstream of mTOR may represent a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and is independent of the ApoE status of the patients.

We have also identified the molecular substrates of the beneficial effects of Rapamycin on the nervous system. We believe that these results can further inform the development of clinical predictive tests for the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in patients with mild cognitive impairment.
Grand canonical ensemble of the extended two-site Hubbard model via a nonextensive distribution
Authors: Reyes Navarro Felipe Américo , Torres-Tapia Eusebio Castor , Peña Pedro Pacheco
Published: May 2013

We hereby introduce a research about a grand canonical ensemble for the extended two-site Hubbard model, that is, we consider the intersite interaction term in addition to those of the simple Hubbard model. To calculate the thermodynamical parameters, we utilize the nonextensive statistical mechanics; specifically, we perform the simulations of magnetic internal energy, specific heat, susceptibility, and thermal mean value of the particle number operator. We found out that the addition of the intersite interaction term provokes a shifting in all the simulated curves. Furthermore, for some values of the on-site Coulombian potential, we realize that, near absolute zero, the consideration of a chemical potential varying with temperature causes a nonzero entropy.

PACS

75.10.Jm, 05.30.-d, 65.80.+n
A comparative perspective on lipid storage in animals
Authors: Birsoy Kıvanç , Festuccia William T. , Laplante Mathieu
Published: May 2013

Lipid storage is an evolutionary conserved process that exists in all organisms from simple prokaryotes to humans. In Metazoa, long-term lipid accumulation is restricted to specialized cell types, while a dedicated tissue for lipid storage (adipose tissue) exists only in vertebrates. Excessive lipid accumulation is associated with serious health complications including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Thus, significant advances have been made over the last decades to dissect out the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in adipose tissue formation and maintenance. Our current understanding of adipose tissue development comes from in vitro cell culture and mouse models, as well as recent approaches to study lipid storage in genetically tractable lower organisms. This Commentary gives a comparative insight into lipid storage in uni- and multi-cellular organisms with a particular emphasis on vertebrate adipose tissue. We also highlight the molecular mechanisms and nutritional signals that regulate the formation of mammalian adipose tissue.
Crystal-face Dependence of Photoinduced Hydrophilic Conversion on SrTiO3 Surfaces
Authors: Katsumata Ken-ichi , Okayasu Yuki , Matsushita Nobuhiro , Okada Kiyoshi
Published: May 2013

The photoinduced hydrophilicity of SrTiO3 single crystals with (100), (110), and (111) facets was investigated. The (100) and (111) facets had a higher hydrophilic conversion rate under UV irradiation than the (110) facet. This is attributed to an unstable O atom on the surface of the (100) and (111) facets. The crystal-face dependence of the hydrophilic conversion was weakened by repeated UV irradiation, which indicates that an irreversible structural change is caused on the SrTiO3 surface by UV irradiation.
One-pot Anatase TiO2 Nanocoating on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes via Liquid-phase Deposition Process
Authors: Sakemi Daisuke , Lee Hackkeun , Selyanchyn Roman , Lee Seung-Woo
Published: May 2013

The facile one-pot fabrication of anatase TiO2-coated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) via a liquid-phase deposition process is demonstrated. Optimization of the deposition parameters of precursor concentration and reaction temperature was investigated for the achievement of a uniform titania coating on the surface of MWCNTs.
Credit Risk Spillovers Among Financial Institutions Around the Global Credit Crisis: Firm-Level Evidence
Authors: Yang Jian , Zhou Yinggang
Published: May 2013

Using credit default swap data, we propose a novel empirical framework to identify the structure of credit risk networks across international major financial institutions around the recent global credit crisis. Specifically, we identify three groups of players, including prime senders, exchange centers, and prime receivers of credit risk information. Leverage ratios and, particularly, the short-term debt ratio appear to be significant determinants of the roles of financial institutions in credit risk transfer, while corporate governance indexes, size, liquidity, and asset write-downs are not significant. Our findings carry important implications for a new regulatory standard on capital subcharge and liquidity coverage ratio.

This paper was accepted by Wei Jiang, finance.
The Impact of Acquisitions on the Performance of Existing Organizational Units in the Acquiring Firm: The Case of an Agribusiness Company
Authors: Mingo Santiago
Published: May 2013

Companies frequently expand their production capacity through the acquisition of new organizational units. This study analyzes how the performance of existing units is affected by the acquisition of another unit. The research focuses on three mechanisms: managerial distraction, resource transfer, and knowledge sharing. These mechanisms are studied in the context of existing units and acquired units with different levels of proximity and similarity between them. Using a detailed data set from an agribusiness company, empirical analysis shows that after an acquisition event there is a temporary decrease in the performance of existing units that are geographically proximate to the acquired unit. Data analysis also shows that after an acquisition event there is an increase in the performance of existing units that have similar characteristics to the acquired unit. In this latter case, the rate of increase in performance diminishes over time. This research demonstrates that the acquisition of an organizational unit can have differing dynamic effects on different parts of the organization.

This paper was accepted by Bruno Cassiman, business strategy.
SOFTWARE LIVRE EM RELAÇÃO AO SOFTWARE PROPRIETÁRIO: ASPECTOS FAVORÁVEIS E DESFAVORÁVEIS PERCEBIDOS POR ESPECIALISTAS
Authors: Garcia Mauro Neves , Santos Silvana Mara Braga dos , Pereira Raquel da Silva , Rossi George Bedineli
Published: May 2013

Objetivando valorizar a percepção de especialistas a respeito de vantagens e desvantagens do uso de software livre em relação ao uso de software proprietário, esta pesquisa feita com 222 especialistas em informática buscou responder a seguinte indagação: Que aspectos são favoráveis ou desfavoráveis no software livre em relação ao software proprietário? A metodologia adotada foi a de pesquisa qualitativa, partindo-se de revisão teórica conceitual, seguida de entrevistas com especialistas na região da Santa Ifigênia, na cidade de São Paulo. Constatou-se que para os especialistas entrevistados, as principais vantagens do SW livre são os custos menores e Segurança e Qualidade. E as desvantagens são a manutenção e a qualidade e segurança. A opinião dos especialistas entrevistados na pesquisa segue as observações destacadas na pesquisa bibliográfica, reforçando as percepções acerca da importância da disseminação do conhecimento e da liberdade proporcionada por softwares livres, ainda pouco disseminados e com baixa utilização. Entretanto, esse cenário aponta para uma significativa mudança, já que a sociedade está cada vez mais consciente da possibilidade de redução no consumo de licenças para uso de software proprietário.
ESTRUTURA ORGANIZACIONAL E GESTÃO SOB A ÓTICA DA TEORIA DA CONTINGÊNCIA
Authors: Fagundes Jair Antonio , Petri Marly , Lavarda Rosalia Barbosa , Rodrigues Marcos Rogério , Lavarda Carlos Eduardo Facin , Soller Cristina Crespo
Published: May 2013

O presente artigo tem como objetivo identificar como se classifica a estrutura organizacional e a gestão de uma empresa de fabricação e montagem de equipamentos industriais sob a ótica da teoria contingencial. Este estudo trabalho fundamenta-se nos estudos de Burns & Stalker (1960) e Lawrence & Lorsch (1967) que contribuíram com a utilização da variável ambiente para a definição das estruturas organizacionais nas organizações. A metodologia foi o estudo de caso qualitativo e realizaram-se entrevistas semi estruturadas como principal técnica de coleta de dados. No fator relativo à divisão do trabalho os resultados confirmam que o modelo de estrutura da empresa classifica-se como uma estrutura mecânica. Nos demais fatores a empresa apresenta indícios dos dois modelos de estrutura, tanto mecânica quanto orgânica. Pode-se afirmar que os achados corroboraram com a literatura acerca da teoria da contingência, onde se assegura que não há uma fórmula única para administrar uma empresa.
Atividades de inovação tecnológica e cooperação: Um estudo de caso com empresas participantes do “petrópolis-tecnópolis”
Authors: Alves Alessandro Pereira , Da Fonseca Ana Carolina Pimentel Duarte , De Almeida Rodrigo Santana , Ayres Rosângela Mesquita
Published: May 2013

O objetivo deste estudo é apresentar as principais características de um polo tecnológico, analisar a prática deatividades de inovação e o esforço em P&D, bem como a existência de relação de cooperação entre as empresas participantes do polo. Para tanto, procedeu-se a uma pesquisa descritiva realizada através de um estudo de caso com aplicação de questionários semiestruturado, utilizando-se, para o tratamento dos dados, da abordagem qualitativa. Os resultados demonstraram que o ambiente é favorável ao desenvolvimento tecnológico, mas carece de articulações de parcerias. Constatou-se também que o baixo investimento e as atividades de inovação tecnológica atualmente desenvolvidas revelam a pouca vontade para inovar. Nessesentido, concluiu-se que a cooperação entre os atores sociais do polo pesquisado é incipiente e que talvez sejanecessária uma mudança no enfoque da política de indução por redução da carga fiscal por outras que gerem maior necessidade de associação no interior do polo.Palavras-chave: polo tecnológico, atividades de inovação, cooperação.
Preço de Transferência Interna como Instrumento Gerencial: Um Estudo da Utilização por Indústrias Localizadas no Estado Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Souza Marcos Antonio , Cardoso Mauricio Farias , Machado Rosane
Published: May 2013

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar o uso do preço de transferência interna como parte dos instrumentos gerenciais das empresas. O crescimento das organizações provoca, dentre outras questões, a necessidade de adaptação das práticas de gestão. Para empresas que optaram por uma gestão descentralizada, o preço de transferência interna, segundo a literatura da área, revela-se de grande utilidade. A pesquisa realizada identificase como um estudo exploratório, descritivo e qualitativo. Para desenvolvimento do estudo, utilizou-se a estratégia metodológica do estudo de caso múltiplo, o qual contou com a participação de três empresas gaúchas de médio e grande porte, que viabilizaram a coleta de dados mediante entrevistas realizadas com os respectivos gestores. Os principais resultados sinalizam que o uso do preço de transferência está consistente com as recomendações da literatura enquanto instrumento de planejamento, controle e avaliação de desempenho das áreas e dos gestores correspondentes, prevalecendo o preço baseado no custo real e no custo padrão mais margem. Os entrevistados ratificaram a utilidade do preço de transferência em possibilitar a identificação das principais fontes geradoras de valor na empresa.Palavras-chave: gestão empresarial, descentralização, resultado divisional, preço de transferência interna.
GOLDEMBERG, José. Energia e desenvolvimento sustentável. São Paulo: Blucher, 2010. Série Sustentabilidade Vol. 4
Authors: Pereira Raquel da Silva
Published: May 2013

Resenha do Vol. 4 da Série Sustentabilidade, coordenada pelo Prof. Dr. José Goldemberg. São Paulo: Blucher, 2010.