bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the interactional dimension of evidentials: The case of the Spanish evidential discourse markers
Authors: Cornillie Bert , Gras Pedro
Published: January 2015

Spanish has a series of evidential discourse markers that combine the lexical semantics of visual perception with reference to inference or hearsay, for example, evidentemente ‘evidently’, por lo visto ‘visibly, seemingly’, al parecer ‘seemingly’ and se ve (que) ‘one sees that, apparently’. The main aim of this article is to examine the grammatical, semantic and interactional properties of these four evidential discourse markers in informal and formal spoken Spanish. From a semantic point of view, we study the evidential values expressed by these markers (i.e. direct evidence, reportative, inference) and discuss the correlations between them. From a functional point of view, we analyse the evidential markers on the basis of discourse-interactional criteria such as illocutionary force, position in the turn and kind of turn. From a grammatical point of view, we address the preferences in terms of person and Tense/Aspect/Modality (TAM) experienced by these evidential markers in discourse. The main result of our analysis is that, as far as the semantic and discourse properties are concerned, evidentemente differs from por lo visto, al parecer and se ve que. The former seems to refer primarily to shared thoughts, developing a reading that goes beyond any of the traditionally distinguished evidential values. The three other markers, by contrast, refer to indirect evidence, often combining the evidential values of reported knowledge and inference. In talk-in-interaction, the two types of markers behave differently: evidentemente does not enhance turn-taking, whereas the other markers leave room for the co-participant to give his or her view of the state of affairs.
From truth-attesting to intensification: The grammaticalization of Spanish la verdad and Catalan la veritat
Authors: González Montserrat
Published: January 2015

The aim of this article is to discuss and illustrate the grammaticalization process and the polysemic and polyfunctional nature of the Spanish and Catalan markers la verdad and la veritat, from an original objectified referential meaning of the forms (‘tell the truth’, opposite to ‘tell a lie’) to a highly subjectified procedural meaning of the markers (figuratively/metaphorically: ‘frankly/sincerely/honestly’). The pragmatic meaning of these markers stems from the loss of semantic features (i.e. semantic bleaching) and the different uses that they can adopt in a variety of syntactic and pragmatic contexts, where their (inter)subjective, evaluative, and intensifying modal dimensions are fully manifested. In lexical terms, they are noun phrases that can take variable and invariable forms. In morphological terms, the variable form is inflected in number (Sp. cantar las verdades; ‘tell the truths’) and has a referential value, whereas the invariable form, prosodically extraposed, or followed by a verbal predicate when working as pragmatic marker (Cat. la veritat, no m’agrada; ‘frankly, I don’t like it’), is always uninflected and is polyfunctional, with a procedural value. When followed by a verbal predicate ( la verdad/veritat es/és que; ‘the truth + be + that), la verdad and la veritat acquire a structural dimension, besides their modal illocutionary one, being used as boundary markers that separate description of facts from first person evaluation, in a monologued stretch of discourse. In an interactional context, the marker frequently prefaces counter expectations. In order to show its grammaticalization process, I will discuss and exemplify their role as (a) evidential marker with a truth-attesting value (‘tell the truth’), (b) epistemic modality markers used to introduce the speaker’s attitude to the content of the proposition (modal meaning) or to the addressee (affective meaning) in the context of an utterance (‘frankly’, ‘honestly’), (c) intensifiers or boosters used to modify the illocutionary force of a speech act (‘really’, ‘truly’), and (d) discourse boundary markers used to delimit real-world facts (description) from personal opinion (evaluation; ‘in fact’, ‘actually’). In order to account for their polysemic and polyfunctional dimensions, I will propose salient meanings and prototypical functions.
An analysis of some evidential structures in essays written by students of French as a foreign language
Authors: Miche Elisabeth
Published: January 2015

In this article, we perform an evidential analysis of three types of construction taken from essays written by students of French as a foreign language: the shown source, the quoted source and borrowed knowledge. The issue with these constructions, which refer to passages from a book, is knowing the extent to which they have an evidential value because, within the context of our analysis, the source and the knowledge reference overlap. We defend an evidential reading of these segments given their argumentative function in the students’ discourse. We perform a pragmatic analysis of these language forms that take into account the parameters of the communicative situation and the type of text that the students have to produce. Our hypothesis is this: the figure of the teacher (who, in this case, is the hearer and the addressee) and his or her instructions have a direct impact on the way in which the student presents his or her knowledge of the book on which he or she is commenting. The analysis of the function of these three forms has also led us to address the issue of the relationship between evidentiality and notions like the reliability and epistemic modality. We conclude that source (evidentiality) is a reliability’s character and an epistemic function in the discourse.
3D dynamic model of the railway wagon to obtain the wheel–rail forces under track irregularities
Authors: Naeimi Meysam , Ali Zakeri Jabbar , Shadfar Morad , Esmaeili Morteza
Published: January 2015

Employing a dynamic model of the railway wagon in three dimensions, this paper presents the results of dynamic wheel–rail forces under the presence of track irregularities. A mathematical model of the wagon system is developed using dynamic equations of the components, taking into account the vertical (bounce), pitch and roll motions of the system. The model examines the dynamics of the wagon system under arbitrary rail irregularities. The spectra of rail surface irregularities are fed into the vehicle model to extract the time histories of dynamic forces between the wheel and the rail. Using the irregularity spectra of left/right rails, vibration of the wheelsets is studied for the bounce–roll motions. The dynamic contact forces between wheels and rails are determined for three examples of the measured irregularities. Moreover, three V-shape defects are modelled as examples of the singular defects on rail surface. The results of dynamic simulations confirm the large amounts of impact forces due to the presence of rail irregularities, particularly for the cases with much unevenness between the left/right profiles.
Bound by inequality: The social capital of older Asians and Latinos in Phoenix, Arizona
Authors: Fukui Haruna M. , Menjívar Cecilia
Published: January 2015

This paper investigates how every day interactions within senior centers may be conducive to the generation of social capital that seniors can tap into, and how the creation of social capital is shaped by the social positions and physical location of the individuals involved. Based on 22 in-depth interviews and 15 months of field observations at two centers in Phoenix, one serving Asians and the other Latinos, we find that the presence of seniors in socially advantageous positions facilitates the flow of beneficial resources for other seniors. Seeming ethnic differences in the generation of social capital actually stem from the interaction of other forms of capital and the structure of opportunities for different groups, reflecting broader patterns in the reproduction of inequality. These observations may be policy-relevant with regard to the allocation of public resources in the face of fiscal crises.
Crankcase gaseous and particle emissions in common rail diesel engine
Authors: Bai Jinlong , Qiao Xinqi
Published: January 2015

In this study, the crankcase gas temperature, flow rate, gaseous emissions (NOx, CO and HC) and particle emissions (particle size distribution, number and mass concentration, geometric mean diameter) compared with tailpipe are investigated in a light-duty common rail diesel engine. It is shown that the emissions from the crankcase are mainly affected by the second in-cylinder pressure peak. The crankcase gas temperature varies between 52 °C and 68 °C, and the crankcase gas flow rate slightly increases with load and speed but does not vary much with injection timing. The CO emission from crankcase is about 2%−5% of that from tailpipe, the NOx emissions are only about 1% and the HC emissions are more than 10%. The blow-by gas percentage is 10−8 order and reduces with heavier engine load and faster engine speed. The blow-by HC emission percentage varies from 5% to 35%. As engine load is increased and engine speed is decreased, the nuclei mode particles of crankcase reduce and the accumulation mode particles increase. Furthermore, the particle total number concentration increases with load but decreases with speed and retarding injection timing. The total mass concentration increases with load but rises and falls with speed and injection timing. The crankcase particle geometric mean diameter based on mass is nearly twice larger than that of tailpipe, while the ones based on number are rarely different except the higher load.
Feed-forward control of purge flow in internal combustion engines
Authors: Zamanian Fatemeh , Franchek Matthew A , Grigoriadis Karolos M , Makki Imad
Published: January 2015

Presented is a feed-forward controller that coordinates engine fueling with a purge event to reduce air–fuel ratio excursions. The controller employs a linear parameter-varying model to estimate the necessary changes in fuel pulse-width based on a hydrocarbon sensor located in the purge line. Synchronization between the purge fuel vapor arrival at the intake manifold and the fueling command is realized using a transport delay model. The proposed controller is experimentally validated on a Ford 5.4-L port injected engine and a 3.6-L EcoBoost engine. Significant reductions in air–fuel ratio excursions are achieved during the steady-state engine operating conditions associated with highway conditions.
Challenges and coping strategies in leavening an ultra-Orthodox community
Authors: Berger Roni
Published: January 2015

This article reports and illustrates challenges encountered by those who were born and raised in an insular Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community and opted to transition to the modern world. Based on content analysis of the narratives shared by means of in-depth interviews with 19 men and women from the NY metropolitan area, social, intellectual, legal, logistic, and financial challenges were identified. Reported strategies for coping with these challenges included reaching compromises and reasoning, relocating to a different geographical area, often to states with a small Jewish population, pretending, developing a “thick skin,” catching up and reinventing. These findings are discussed using a stress and copying conceptual framework. Implications for practice and directions for future research are suggested.
“Of course it’s relevant!”: A focus group study of older adults' perceived importance of HIV/AIDS prevention education
Authors: Altschuler Joanne , Katz Anne
Published: January 2015

This article reports on older adults’ perceptions and opinions about the importance of HIV/AIDS prevention education and reasons for participation. It reports on specific themes that emerged from five focus groups consisting of 52 ethnically diverse adults 50 years and older. Participants identified four themes regarding HIV/AIDS prevention education: 1) “Knowing someone who has it”, 2) “Tell me about it at work”, 3) “We’re not dead yet”, and 4) “How do I talk about this with my doctor?” The article discusses the meaning of the findings as they relate to current knowledge about HIV prevention education and older adults, sexual activity, and implications for social work research, education, and outreach.
To be seen or not to be seen: Photovoice, queer and trans youth, and the dilemma of representation
Authors: Holtby Alix , Klein Kate , Cook Katie , Travers Robb
Published: January 2015

Photovoice is increasingly lauded as one of a number of emergent research methodologies designed to be empowering for participants. In this paper, we explore the findings from a photovoice study with 15 queer and trans youth in a small urban centre in Ontario, Canada and some of the challenges faced in navigating photovoice ethics when working with a marginalized community that must grapple with dilemmas of visibility and representation in their daily lives. This paper identifies some practical considerations in confronting issues of representation in photovoice research, and reflects on the interaction of the research study with participants’ ongoing negotiation of power imbalances in their daily lives.
Black History and the Struggle for Justice
Authors: Jordan Glenn
Published: January 2015

In the United Kingdom, Black History Month (BHM) occurs in October. This short talk—an example of the author’s work as a public intellectual—was given at the launch of BHM in Wales in 2013. It begins by suggesting that Black history is (a) scholarship, (b) a form of cultural politics and cultural democracy, (c) a mode of vindication and counter-narrative, and (d) celebration. After warning that some practices of Black history have negative consequences, the talk briefly compares the origins and development of BHM in the United States and the United Kingdom. The concluding section discusses the question: “Why does Black history matter?”
Enhancement of Cancer Chemotherapeutic Efficacy of Cyclophosphamide by Curculigo orchioides Gaertn and Its Ameliorative Effects on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Oxidative Stress
Authors: Murali Vishnu Priya , Kuttan Girija
Published: January 2015

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a synthetic antineoplastic drug with severe and life-threatening side effects. Studies in search of protective agents, preferably natural products, that can alleviate these side effects are valuable because they can contribute to improve current chemotherapeutic treatment strategies. Curculigo orchioides Gaertn (family Hypoxidaceae) is well known for its medicinal use in the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine, and various studies have been reported that proved its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, the tumor reduction capacity of CTX in combination with C orchioides methanolic extract was studied using Dalton’s lymphoma ascites-induced solid tumor models. Effect of C orchioides on the reversal of the damage induced by CTX administration (intraperitoneally) was also determined in this study. For this, solid tumor volume, serum cytokine levels, hematolological parameters, intestinal histopathology, and serum and tissue biochemical parameters (Glutathione [GSH], alkaline phosphatase [ALP], glutamate pyruvate transaminase [GPT], lipid peroxidation [LPO]) were analyzed. Immune suppression and increased serum proinflammatory cytokine levels caused by CTX administration (25 mg/kg body weight) were reversed by C orchioides (20 mg/kg body weight). The alcoholic extract enhanced the tumor reduction capacity of CTX and reduced GPT and ALP levels in liver and serum, which were elevated by CTX administration. The LPO level was also lower in the CTX-administered animals when treated with the C orchioides extract. In conclusion, the plant extract when administered in combination with CTX, can result in enhanced anticancer properties; it also ameliorates the toxic side effects of CTX.
Extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 phosphorylation is required for hepatic differentiation of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Yan Yongmin , Zhu Yuan , Sun Feng , Zhang Bin , Li Limin , Sun Zixuan , Li Wei , Qian Hui , Zhu Wei , Xu Wenrong
Published: January 2015

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the capacity to restore liver function by differentiating into hepatocyte like cells. However, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we have investigated the signals involved in the hepatic differentiation of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs). hUCMSCs were treated with mouse fetal liver-conditioned medium (FLCM) to induce hepatic differentiation. Flow cytometry, reverse transcription PCR, real-time PCR, immunocytochemistry, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array were used to detect the expression of MSC- and hepotocyte-specific markers in FLCM-treated hUCMSCs. Urea production and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) activity were used as indicators to evaluate liver cell characteristics. Raf/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) was analyzed in hUCMSCs by Western blotting. Following FLCM treatment, expression of MSC-specific markers decreased, while hepatocyte-specific gene expression was increased. Urea production, albumin secretion, glycogen storage, and CYP3A4 activity were significantly enhanced in FLCM-treated cells. In addition, ERK1/2 phosphorylation was increased in a time-dependent manner through Raf/MEK/ERK pathway, and phosphorylation was sustained at a high level during hepatic induction. Inhibition of ERK1/2 activation by U0126 (an ERK1/2 inhibitor) and pFLAG-CMV-ERK1(K71R) (negative mutant of ERK1) reversed the expression of liver-specific genes in hUCMSCs and affected hepatic function significantly. In summary, this work shows that ERK1/2 phosphorylation plays an important role in inducing hepatic differentiation of hUCMSCs in FLCM.
Inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3β prevents sympathetic hyperinnervation in infarcted rats
Authors: Lee Tsung-Ming , Lin Shinn-Zong , Chang Nen-Chung
Published: January 2015

We have demonstrated that nerve growth factor (NGF) expression in the myocardium is selectively increased during chronic stage of myocardial infarction, resulting in sympathetic hyperinnervation. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) signal has been shown to play key roles in the regulation of cytoskeletal assembly during axon regeneration. We assessed whether lithium, a GSK-3 inhibitor, attenuates cardiac sympathetic reinnervation after myocardial infarction through attenuated NGF expression and Tau expression. Twenty-four hours after ligation of the anterior descending artery, male Wistar rats were randomized to either LiCl or SB216763, chemically unrelated inhibitors of GSK-3β, a combination of LiCl and SB216763, or vehicle for four weeks. Myocardial norepinephrine levels revealed a significant elevation in vehicle-treated rats compared with sham-operated rats, consistent with excessive sympathetic reinnervation after infarction. Immunohistochemical analysis for sympathetic nerve also confirmed the change of myocardial norepinephrine. This was paralleled by a significant upregulation of NGF protein and mRNA in the vehicle-treated rats, which was reduced after administering either LiCl, SB216763, or combination. Arrhythmic scores during programmed stimulation in the vehicle-treated rats were significantly higher than those treated with GSK-3 inhibitors. Addition of SB216763 did not have additional beneficial effects compared with those seen in rats treated with LiCl alone. Furthermore, lithium treatment increased Tau1 and decreased AT8 and AT180 levels. Chronic use of lithium after infarction, resulting in attenuated sympathetic reinnervation by GSK-3 inhibition, may modify the arrhythmogenic response to programmed electrical stimulation.
Direct intracardiac injection of umbilical cord-derived stromal cells and umbilical cord blood-derived endothelial cells for the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Suss Paula H , Capriglione Luiz Guilherme A , Barchiki Fabiane , Miyague Lye , Jackowski Danielle , Fracaro Letícia , Schittini Andressa V , Senegaglia Alexandra C , Rebelatto Carmen LK , Olandoski Márcia , Correa Alejandro , Brofman Paulo RS
Published: January 2015

The development of new therapeutic strategies is necessary to reduce the worldwide social and economic impact of cardiovascular disease, which produces high rates of morbidity and mortality. A therapeutic option that has emerged in the last decade is cell therapy. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of transplanting human umbilical cord-derived stromal cells (UCSCs), human umbilical cord blood-derived endothelial cells (UCBECs) or a combination of these two cell types for the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy (IC) in a Wistar rat model. IC was induced by left coronary artery ligation, and baseline echocardiography was performed seven days later. Animals with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of ≤40% were selected for the study. On the ninth day after IC was induced, the animals were randomized into the following experimental groups: UCSCs, UCBECs, UCSCs plus UCBECs, or vehicle (control). Thirty days after treatment, an echocardiographic analysis was performed, followed by euthanasia. The animals in all of the cell therapy groups, regardless of the cell type transplanted, had less collagen deposition in their heart tissue and demonstrated a significant improvement in myocardial function after IC. Furthermore, there was a trend of increasing numbers of blood vessels in the infarcted area. The median value of LVEF increased by 7.19% to 11.77%, whereas the control group decreased by 0.24%. These results suggest that UCSCs and UCBECs are promising cells for cellular cardiomyoplasty and can be an effective therapy for improving cardiac function following IC.
Phase II Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial of Patient-Led Therapies (Mirror Therapy and Lower-Limb Exercises) During Inpatient Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Tyson Sarah , Wilkinson Jack , Thomas Nessa , Selles Ruud , McCabe Candy , Tyrrell Pippa , Vail Andy
Published: January 2015

Background and objective. Patient-led therapy has the potential to increase the amount of therapy patients undertake during stroke rehabilitation and to enhance recovery. Our objective was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of 2 patient-led therapies during the acute stages of stroke care: mirror therapy for the upper limb and lower-limb exercises for the lower limb. Methods. This was a blind assessed, multicenter, pragmatic randomized controlled trial of patient-led upper-limb mirror therapy and patient-led lower leg exercises. Stroke survivors with upper and lower limb limitations, undergoing inpatient rehabilitation and able to consent were recruited at least 1 week poststroke. Results. Both interventions proved feasible, with >90% retention. No serious adverse events were reported. Both groups did less therapy than recommended; typically 5 to 15 minutes for 7 days or less. Participants receiving mirror therapy (n = 63) tended to do less practice than those doing lower-limb exercises (n = 31). Those with neglect did 69% less mirror therapy than those without ( P = .02), which was not observed in the exercise group. Observed between-group differences were modest but neglect, upper-limb strength, and dexterity showed some improvement in the mirror therapy group. No changes were seen in the lower-limb group. Conclusions. Both patient-led mirror therapy and lower-limb exercises during inpatient stroke care are safe, feasible, and acceptable and warrant further investigation. Practice for 5 to 15 minutes for 7 days is a realistic prescription unless strategies to enhance adherence are included.
Epidemiology and treatment strategies of iliac vein thrombophlebitis
Authors: Dua Anahita , Desai Sapan S , Kumar Naveen , Heller Jennifer
Published: January 2015

Introduction

This study aimed to determine the epidemiology of iliac vein thrombophlebitis and describe gender differences associated with the management of this pathology.

Methods

The 2010 National Inpatient Sample was retrospectively reviewed to include all inpatients with ICD-9 codes identifying iliac vein thrombophlebitis (451.81). Demographics, disposition, anticoagulation, thrombolytics, stent placement, open operative intervention, complications (deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism), and mortality rates were reported. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and Student’s t-testing with P < 0.05 deemed significant.

Results

The incidence of iliac vein thrombophlebitis was 1/1,000,000 people. Men had an average age of 48 ± 20 years and women were significantly older at 59 ± 18 years (P = 0.02). There were no differences in treatment strategies or rates of complications between men and women including pulmonary embolism (23% for males, 16% of females) and deep vein thrombosis (29% for males and 19% for females). Length of stay between groups was not significant (11 ± 20 days for males and 7.7 ± 6 days for females). Overall mortality was 1.5%.

Conclusion

Iliac vein thrombophlebitis is a rare disease. Females who develop iliac vein thrombophlebitis are significantly older than their male counterparts. The rates of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and interventional strategies are not different between the sexes.
The impact of abdominal aortic aneurysm on muscle mass and energy expenditure: A novel preliminary investigation
Authors: Delaney CL , Miller MD , Allan RB , Spark JI
Published: January 2015

Objective

Vascular surgical patients, including those with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), are nutritionally vulnerable. The aim of this study was to compare resting energy expenditure (REE) of patients with AAA relative to age- and gender-matched controls and explore relationships between aneurysm size and muscle mass.

Methods

Twenty patients with AAA underwent assessment of REE using indirect calorimetry. Mid-arm circumference and triceps skinfold thickness were measured and corrected arm muscle area calculated. Twenty gender- and age-matched controls were assessed using the same procedures.

Results

Mean (SD) age of participants with AAA was 74.7 (7.7) years, size of AAA ranged from 45 to 70 mm. Median (IQR) REE was significantly higher than controls [5990 (5469, 7017) kJ/day versus 5086 (4536, 5886) kJ/day, p = .011; or 69 (64, 80) kJ/kg/day versus 66 (61, 69) kJ/kg/day, p = .046]. While weight-adjusted REE was independent of aneurysm size ( r = .200; p = .397), as aneurysm size increased, weight-adjusted corrected arm muscle area decreased ( r = −.576; p = .008).

Conclusion

The raised REE and decline in muscle mass associated with larger AAA suggest that early detection and attention to nutritional requirements of patients with AAA may be warranted.
Male prisoners’ family relationships and resilience in resettlement
Authors: Markson Lucy , Lösel Friedrich , Souza Karen , Lanskey Caroline
Published: January 2015

Theories of social bonding and social capital support the argument that positive family relationships are important for resilience in resettlement after release from prison. However, this topic has rarely been addressed in prospective longitudinal studies of resettlement processes. This study gathered interview data from 39 family pairs of British male prisoners and their (ex-)partners before and after release. Questions on the father’s relationship, involvement and contact with the family were used as an index to predict seven resettlement outcomes. At the bivariate level and after control of pre-prison risk variables, family relationships predicted positive outcomes with finding accommodation, alcohol and drug use, the extent to which ex-prisoners felt they were coping with resettlement challenges and the quality of post-release family relations. In contrast, difficulties with employment and finance were neither related to previous family relations nor to the other resettlement outcomes. The findings suggest no general protective influence of family relationships during resettlement, but a strong effect on social and emotional aspects. Theoretical issues, limitations and potential practical consequences are discussed.
The anti-inflammatory effects of acetaminophen and N-acetylcysteine through suppression of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in LPS-challenged piglet mononuclear phagocytes
Authors: Liu Yu , Yao Wenxu , Xu Jun , Qiu Yinsheng , Cao Fangyuan , Li Sali , Yang Sheng , Yang Hailan , Wu Zhongyuan , Hou Yongqing
Published: January 2015

Acetaminophen (AAP) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects via the TLR–NF-κB pathway in LPS-challenged piglets. However, the action mechanisms employed by AAP and NAC have yet to be completely understood. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of AAP and NAC on LPS-induced inflammatory responses via the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway in piglet mononuclear phagocytes. The results show that mRNA expression levels of IL-1β, IL-18 and NLRP3, as well as the protein level of cleaved caspase-1, are significantly increased after LPS challenge in vitro. LPS stimulation did not change ASC and caspase-1 mRNA levels, which were components of NLRP3 inflammasome complex. AAP (0.5–1.0 mM) and NAC (0.5–1.0 mM) used individually or in combination could down-regulate protein expression of cleaved caspase-1 and mRNA expression of IL-1β, IL-18 and NLRP3. NAC could significantly enhance the above inhibition actions of AAP. The combined use of AAP plus NAC had better inhibition action on the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. These results indicate that the anti-inflammatory effects of AAP and NAC occur via the regulation on mRNA expression of NLRP3 and activation of caspase-1. The anti-inflammatory activity of AAP and NAC could be related to the suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome pathway under LPS stimulation.
The OneTogether collaborative approach to reduce the risk of surgical site infection: identifying the challenges to assuring best practice
Authors: Wilson Jennie , Topley Katherine , Stott Dawn , Neachell Jonathan , Gallagher Rose
Published: January 2015

Background:

Surgical site infections (SSI) account for 16% of healthcare associated infections, and are associated with considerable morbidity, mortality and increased costs of care. Ensuring evidence-based practice to prevent SSI is incorporated across the patient’s surgical journey is complex. OneTogether is a quality improvement collaborative of infection prevention and operating department specialists, formed to support the spread and adoption of best practice to prevent SSI. This paper describes the findings of an expert workshop on infection prevention in operating departments.

Methods:

A total of 84 delegates from 75 hospitals attended the workshop, comprising 46 (55%) theatre nurses/operating department practitioners; 16 (19%) infection control practitioners and 22 (26%) other healthcare practitioners. Discussion focused on evidence, policy implementation and barriers to best practice. Responses were synthesised into a narrative review.

Results:

Delegates reported significant problems in translating evidence-based guidance into everyday practice, lack of local polices and poor compliance. Major barriers were lack of leadership, poorly defined responsibilities, and lack of knowledge/training.

Conclusions:

This workshop has provided important insights into major challenges in assuring compliance with best practice in relation to the prevention of SSI. The OneTogether partnership aims to support healthcare practitioners to improve the outcomes of patients undergoing surgery by reducing the risk of SSI.
Higher Income Is Associated With Less Daily Sadness but not More Daily Happiness
Authors: Kushlev Kostadin , Dunn Elizabeth W. , Lucas Richard E.
Published: January 2015

Although extensive previous research has explored the relationship between income and happiness, no large-scale research has ever examined the relationship between income and sadness. Yet, happiness and sadness are distinct emotional states, rather than diametric opposites, and past research points to the possibility that wealth may have a greater impact on sadness than happiness. Using data from a diverse cross section of the U.S. population ( N = 12,291), we show that higher income is associated with experiencing less daily sadness, but has no bearing on daily happiness. This pattern of findings could not be explained by relevant demographics, stress, and people’s daily time use. Although causality cannot be inferred from this correlational data set, the present findings point to the possibility that money may be a more effective tool for reducing sadness than enhancing happiness.
Is objective and accurate cognitive assessment across the menstrual cycle possible? A feasibility study
Authors: Farrar Diane , Neill Jo , Scally Andy , Tuffnell Derek , Marshall Kay
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

Variation in plasma hormone levels influences the neurobiology of brain regions involved in cognition and emotion processing. Fluctuations in hormone levels across the menstrual cycle could therefore alter cognitive performance and wellbeing; reports have provided conflicting results, however. The aim of this study was to assess whether objective assessment of cognitive performance and self-reported wellbeing during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle is feasible and investigate the possible reasons for variation in effects previously reported.

Methods:

The Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale were used to assess the cognitive performance and wellbeing of 12 women. Data were analysed by self-reported and hormone-estimated phases of the menstrual cycle.

Results:

Recruitment to the study and assessment of cognition and wellbeing was without issue. Plasma hormone and peptide estimation showed substantial individual variation and suggests inaccuracy in self-reported menstrual phase estimation.

Conclusion:

Objective assessment of cognitive performance and self-assessed wellbeing across the menstrual cycle is feasible. Grouping data by hormonal profile rather by self-reported phase estimation may influence phase-mediated results. Future studies should use plasma hormone and peptide profiles to estimate cycle phase and group data for analyses.
Disseminated cryptococcosis in a patient with HIV/AIDS at a teaching hospital in Ghana
Authors: Akakpo KP , Quayson SE , Lartey M
Published: January 2015

Objective:

To raise awareness of the existence of cryptococcal infections in HIV/AIDS patients in Ghana.

Method:

Detailed postmortem gross and histopathological analysis of an HIV/AIDS patient suspected to have cryptococcal meningitis was carried out and histopathological findings correlated with clinical findings.

Results:

showed disseminated Cryptococcosis in an HIV/AIDS patient which was confirmed with special stains.

Conclusion:

cryptococcal infection occurs in HIV /AIDS patients in Ghanaian and when clinically suspected the diagnosis should be pursued vigorously.
Aneurysm growth after late conversion of thoracic endovascular aortic repair
Authors: Kasahara Hirofumi , Hayashi Ichiro , Haijima Norimasa
Published: January 2015

A 69-year-old man underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair of a descending aortic aneurysm. Three years later, he developed impending rupture due to aneurysmal expansion that included the proximal landing zone. Urgent open surgery was performed via lateral thoracotomy, and a Dacron graft was sewn to the previous stent graft distally with Teflon felt reinforcement. Postoperatively, four sequential computed tomography scans demonstrated that the aneurysm was additionally increasing in size probably due to continuous hematoma production, suggesting a possibility of endoleaks. This case demonstrates the importance of careful radiologic surveillance after endovascular repair, and also after partial open conversion.
A unique case of isolated, spontaneous, symptomatic celiac trunk dissection
Authors: Ferguson Craig , Rockley Mark , Panu Anukul , Turnbull Robert
Published: January 2015

Cases of isolated spontaneous celiac trunk dissections have been appearing in the literature more recently with the increased availability of high-resolution computerized tomography angiograms. We report a unique case of this entity. A 48-year-old woman presented with acute abdominal pain that radiated to the back and worsened with breathing. This was diagnosed as a celiac trunk dissection by computerized tomography angiogram. She was treated conservatively with antihypertensive medications, anticoagulants, and opioid medication for pain control.
Conversion rates of abstracts to publications from the Irish Society of Urology Annual Meeting (2005–2011) – Questioning the scientific value of national urological meetings for smaller European nations
Authors: O’Kelly F , Nason GJ , Bell S , Galbraith A , McLoughlin LC , Quinlan DM , Thornhill JA
Published: January 2015

Background:

Large annual scientific meetings such as the American Urological Association (AUA) and the European Association of Urology (EUA) have abstract conversion rates into publication of 37%−48%. There are no data on the conversion rates from national meetings of smaller European countries. Our objective was to present the conversion rates and manuscript characteristics of the Irish Society of Urology (ISU) annual meeting over a seven-year period (2005–2011), and to demonstrate the value, viability and sustainability of such a meeting as a model for other small national research programmes.

Methods:

All abstracts presented at the ISU annual meeting between 2005 and 2011 were identified. The subsequent publication rate following the meetings was established for the corresponding studies based on a Medline scan. A range of characteristics associated with subsequent publication were analysed using the logistic regression of the dichotomous variable of publications vs. non-publication of each factor.

Results:

Overall, 46% of the 322 abstracts presented at the ISU meeting were followed by publication into Medline-indexed journals with a mean impact factor of 2.6. A total of 74% abstracts were published within two years. Oral presentations were more likely to be published than posters ( p < 0.0001), and prospective clinical research was more likely to be published in a journal with a higher impact factor than retrospective analyses ( p = 0.033); the mean time to publication was 16.7 months.

Conclusions:

Almost half the abstracts presented at the ISU were subsequently published in peer-reviewed journals, the majority within two years. This compares favourably with larger urological meetings, and provides an incentive to other smaller countries within Europe to continue with national research programmes.
Risk assessment in the management of newly diagnosed classical Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Connors Joseph M.
Published: January 2015

Treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma is associated with 2 major types of risk: that the treatment may fail to cure the disease or that the treatment will prove unacceptably toxic. Careful assessment of the amount of the lymphoma (tumor burden), its behavior (extent of invasion or specific organ compromise), and host related factors (age; coincident systemic infection; and organ dysfunction, especially hematopoietic, cardiac, or pulmonary) is essential to optimize outcome. Elaborately assembled prognostic scoring systems, such as the International Prognostic Factors Project score, have lost their accuracy and value as increasingly effective chemotherapy and supportive care have been developed. Identification of specific biomarkers derived from sophisticated exploration of Hodgkin lymphoma biology is bringing promise of further improvement in targeted therapy in which effectiveness is increased at the same time off-target toxicity is diminished. Parallel developments in functional imaging are providing additional potential to evaluate the efficacy of treatment while it is being delivered, allowing dynamic assessment of risk during chemotherapy and adaptation of the therapy in real time. Risk assessment in Hodgkin lymphoma is continuously evolving, promising ever greater precision and clinical relevance. This article explores the past usefulness and the emerging potential of risk assessment for this imminently curable malignancy.
Programmable 3D silk bone marrow niche for platelet generation ex vivo and modeling of megakaryopoiesis pathologies
Authors: Di Buduo Christian A. , Wray Lindsay S. , Tozzi Lorenzo , Malara Alessandro , Chen Ying , Ghezzi Chiara E. , Smoot Daniel , Sfara Carla , Antonelli Antonella , Spedden Elise , Bruni Giovanna , Staii Cristian , De Marco Luigi , Magnani Mauro , Kaplan David L. , Balduini Alessandra
Published: January 2015

Key Points

Natural silk protein sponge and vascular tubes reproduce human bone marrow niche environments for functional platelet generation ex vivo. Programmable bioengineered model for the investigation and therapeutic targeting of altered platelet formation.
Ribosomopathies and the paradox of cellular hypo- to hyperproliferation
Authors: De Keersmaecker Kim , Sulima Sergey O. , Dinman Jonathan D.
Published: January 2015

Ribosomopathies are largely congenital diseases linked to defects in ribosomal proteins or biogenesis factors. Some of these disorders are characterized by hypoproliferative phenotypes such as bone marrow failure and anemia early in life, followed by elevated cancer risks later in life. This transition from hypo- to hyperproliferation presents an intriguing paradox in the field of hematology known as “Dameshek’s riddle.” Recent cancer sequencing studies also revealed somatically acquired mutations and deletions in ribosomal proteins in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and solid tumors, further extending the list of ribosomopathies and strengthening the association between ribosomal defects and oncogenesis. In this perspective, we summarize and comment on recent findings in the field of ribosomopathies. We explain how ribosomopathies may provide clues to help explain Dameshek’s paradox and highlight some of the open questions and challenges in the field.
Intraperitoneal administration of activated protein C prevents postsurgical adhesion band formation
Authors: Dinarvand Peyman , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi , Weiler Hartmut , Rezaie Alireza R.
Published: January 2015

Key Points

APC exhibits anticoagulant, antifibrinolytic, and antiinflammatory properties. Intraperitoneal administration of APC effectively prevents postsurgical adhesion band formation.
The evaluation of microbiology and prognosis of fournier’s gangrene in past five years
Authors: Tang Lap-Ming , Su Yu-Jang , Lai Yen-Chun
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Fournier’s gangrene (FG) is an devastating disease that affects the perineum and genitourinary region, and is commonly a result of poly-microbial infection. This study is aimed to determine the correlation between micrology and prognosis of FG in the past five years.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study that was designed to study the trends in micrology and prognosis of FG. From the PubMed database, articles published in the recent 5 years (from Jan1st, 2009 to Dec 31st, 2013) were reviewed. A total of 19 articles (each with n > 30 and with thorough data descriptions in the topic of Fournier's gangrene), were enrolled in this study. The consolidated data was further analyzed by commercial statistical software (SPSS for Windows).

Results

The twenty-two studies have covered FG cases from year 1981 to 2011, with a mean duration of 9.2 years. The total number of cases is 4,365. Majority of the cases are male (84.1%). The mean age and mortality rate is 51.8 ± 5 years old and 11.1 ± 8.9%, respectivly. The most commonly found pathogen is poly-microbial organism (54%), followed by Escherichia coli (46.6%) and Streptococcus (36.8%). The major risk factors are diabetes (43.7%), Body mass index of > 30 (40.7%), and hypertension (38.1%). Mortality rate in older patient group (age > 51.8 years old) is significantly higher than those of the younger group (22% vs. 5.5%, p = 0.0001).

Conclusions

Older patients with genital or perineal pain should be examined for crepitus dermis. When a patient is diagnosed with FG, swift consultation with surgeons and administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics are required in order to save the patient’s live.
Possible significance of spatial heterogeneities of local visual features for face perception
Authors: Babenko Vitaly V. , Alekseeva Daria S. , Yavna Denis V.
Published: January 2015

Second-order visual filters are the mechanisms which preattentively combine the rectified outputs of first-order filters (the linear striate neurons). This allows them to select the image areas which are characterized by spatial heterogeneity of the local visual features. The aim of our research is to determine whether information from these areas may be sufficient to detect unfamiliar faces and to distinguish their gender. In our experiments we used digital photos of real living things or artificial objects and faces. All these images were adjusted to an average luminance, contrast and size (7 angle degree) and were processed to extract the areas which differ the most in contrast, orientation, and spatial frequency in each of the six spatial frequencies (0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 cpd). The other image parts were adjusted to the background. The obtained pictures were presented in a random sequence. The observer had to say what he/she saw after each presentation. When a face was presented the observer’s answer could be assigned to one of the categories: ‘it is not clear’, ‘head’, ‘human face’, ‘male / female’. We found that the information contained in the image areas with a spatial heterogeneity of the local features is sufficient not only for detecting a face, but also for distinguishing its gender. The best results were obtained at a carrier frequency of 2 cpd. The results were a little bit worse at 0.5 and 1 cpd. However, the information extracted from the high-frequency half of the spectrum was significantly less useful. The obtained results allow us to suggest that the information transmitted by the second-order visual filters may be used for pattern recognition.
Ionizing Radiation Induces Structural and Functional Damage on the Molecules of Rat Brain Homogenate Membranes: A Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Demir Pinar , Akkas Sara B. , Severcan Mete , Zorlu Faruk , Severcan Feride
Published: January 2015

Humans can be exposed to ionizing radiation, due to various reasons, whose structural effects on biological membranes are not well defined. The current study aims to understand the ionizing radiation-induced structural and functional alterations in biomolecules of brain membranes using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy using rat animal models. For this purpose, 1000 cGy of ionizing radiation was specifically directed to the head of Sprague Dawley rats. The rats were decapitated after 24 h. The results revealed that the lipid-to-protein ratio decreased and that irradiation caused lipid peroxidation and increases in the amounts of olefinic =CH, carbonyl, and methylene groups of lipids. In addition, ionizing radiation induced a decrease in membrane fluidity, disordering of membrane lipids, strengthening of the hydrogen bonding of the phosphate groups of lipid head-groups, and weakening in the hydrogen bonding of the interfacial carbonyl groups of lipids. Radiation further caused significant decrements in the α-helix and turns, and significant increments in the β-sheet and random coil contents in the protein structure. Hierarchical cluster analyses, performed in the whole region (3030–1000 cm–1), lipid (3030–2800 cm–1), and protein (1700–1600 cm–1) regions separately, successfully differentiated the control and irradiated groups of rat brain membranes and showed that proteins in the membranes are affected more than lipids from the damages induced with ionizing radiation. As a result, the current study showed that FT-IR spectroscopy can be used successfully as a novel method to monitor radiation-induced alterations on biological membranes.