bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The First Course
Authors: Moon Michelle , Stanton Cathy
Published: August 2014

The current enthusiasm for “local food” offers public historians an opportunity to strengthen civic dialogues about place, land and energy use, labor, economy, health, and governance. Moving beyond conventional exhibitry and living history approaches challenges public history practitioners and institutions to confront politicized “real-life” aspects of food systems, but it also offers important benefits to those engaged in the reshaping of both scaled-down food systems and civically engaged museums and historic sites. A nuanced, reflexive engagement with food and farm history can be a way to address much broader issues of economic, institutional, and environmental sustainability.
Above and Below at the Oakland Museum of California
Authors: Pubols Louise
Published: August 2014

With more than 100,000 square feet of gallery space on four city blocks, the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is one of the largest cultural institutions in the San Francisco Bay Area and the only museum devoted exclusively to the art, history, and natural environment of California. From August 31, 2013 through February 23, 2014, OMCA presented Above and Below: Stories From Our Changing Bay. This project served as a model for the institution for both the intensity of our partnerships with significant local institutions and stakeholders, and for how we might connect a broad audience to the human history of our shared natural environment.
[Re]Evaluating Significance: The Environmental and Cultural Value in Older and Historic Buildings
Authors: Merlino Kathryn Rogers
Published: August 2014

Traditionally the value of a building is measured through the historical, cultural, or architectural significance that has emerged from the established traditions of historic preservation policy in the United States. Although the designation of historic properties is a critical venue to save our most historically significant buildings, it does not account for those that fall outside of the established categories of significance. Accounting for the environmental value of buildings and understanding them as repositories of energy and materials repositions the way we value of the built environment for a more sustainable future.
Quantitative analysis of mammalian translation initiation sites by FACS‐seq
Authors: Noderer William L , Flockhart Ross J , Bhaduri Aparna , Diaz de Arce Alexander J , Zhang Jiajing , Khavari Paul A , Wang Clifford L
Published: August 2014

An approach combining fluorescence‐activated cell sorting and high‐throughput DNA sequencing (FACS‐seq) was employed to determine the efficiency of start codon recognition for all possible translation initiation sites (TIS) utilizing AUG start codons. Using FACS‐seq, we measured translation from a genetic reporter library representing all 65,536 possible TIS sequences spanning the −6 to +5 positions. We found that the motif RYMRMVAUGGC enhanced start codon recognition and translation efficiency. However, dinucleotide interactions, which cannot be conveyed by a single motif, were also important for modeling TIS efficiency. Our dataset combined with modeling allowed us to predict genome‐wide translation initiation efficiency for all mRNA transcripts. Additionally, we screened somatic TIS mutations associated with tumorigenesis to identify candidate driver mutations consistent with known tumor expression patterns. Finally, we implemented a quantitative leaky scanning model to predict alternative initiation sites that produce truncated protein isoforms and compared predictions with ribosome footprint profiling data. The comprehensive analysis of the TIS sequence space enables quantitative predictions of translation initiation based on genome sequence.
Novel X-Linked Genes Revealed by Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction in the Green Anole,Anolis carolinensis
Authors: Rovatsos Michail , Altmanová Marie , Pokorná Martina Johnson , Kratochvíl Lukáš
Published: August 2014

The green anole, Anolis carolinensis (ACA), is the model reptile for a vast array of biological disciplines. It was the first nonavian reptile to have its genome fully sequenced. During the genome project, the XX/XY system of sex chromosomes homologous to chicken chromosome 15 (GGA15) was revealed, and 106 X-linked genes were identified. We selected 38 genes located on eight scaffolds in ACA and having orthologs located on GGA15, then tested their linkage to ACA X chromosome by using comparative quantitative fluorescent real-time polymerase chain reaction applied to male and female genomic DNA. All tested genes appeared to be X-specific and not present on the Y chromosome. Assuming that all genes located on these scaffolds should be localized to the ACA X chromosome, we more than doubled the number of known X-linked genes in ACA, from 106 to 250. While demonstrating that the gene content of chromosome X in ACA and GGA15 is largely conserved, we nevertheless showed that numerous interchromosomal rearrangements had occurred since the splitting of the chicken and anole evolutionary lineages. The presence of many ACA X-specific genes localized to distinct contigs indicates that the ACA Y chromosome should be highly degenerated, having lost a large amount of its original gene content during evolution. The identification of novel genes linked to the X chromosome and absent on the Y chromosome in the model lizard species contributes to ongoing research as to the evolution of sex determination in reptiles and provides important information for future comparative and functional genomics.
Classification and methodical features of fitness and wellness facilities
Authors: Beliak Yu. I.
Published: August 2014

Purpose : health and fitness use a large arsenal of different sports and physical activity. Development of fitness industry promotes its expansion and requires classification and methodological features that lead to the use of appropriate fitness programs. Material : more than 60 literature and video of 42 prestigious international fitness - conventions lessons were analyzed. Results : the evolution of species fitness and wellness, as well as the character used in those funds. Conclusions : as a means of improving classification attribute fitness appropriate to use their orientation, according to which they are divided into aerobic, strength exercises that promote flexibility and psychomotor coordination. The main methodological features fitness facilities are highlighted: the variety and interchangeability, clear regulation, the ability to transform, to exercise a selective effect on the body, the ability to solve a wide range of tasks, innovation.
Justification for experimental methods for circuit training aerobics classes first mature age women
Authors: Martyniuk O.V.
Published: August 2014

Purpose: develop and validate a methodology for circuit training aerobics. Methodology focused on improving physical health first mature age women. Material : a study was conducted with 81 women (age 21 - 35 years). Results : justified the means and methods of circuit training, the duration of the structural components, the rational parameters of physical activity, pulse modes. Depending on the physical health of women developed a set of circuit training for the main part of the session. Complex circuit training consists of 2 series, active rest interval between 3 minutes. Duration of employment in one series of 23 minutes. Exercises are performed at 5 locations: 3 - aerobic (3x5 min), 2 - power (2x4 min). The total duration of training - 49 minutes. The intensity of the training load is regulated by the level of physical health and the maximum test results. Conclusions : The positive changes morphofunctional indicators show an increase in the body's bioenergy and women transition to a higher level of physical health.
IMPACT OF SHIFT IN FOCUS OF ATTENTION ON LEARNING TABLE TENNIS BACKHAND WITH SELF-TALK IN HIGH SCHOOL FEMALES STUDENTS
Authors: Mohamadi Ghazal , Shojaee Masoome , Daneshfar Afkham , Nili Ahmadabad Zahra
Published: August 2014

Aim: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of variability of attentional focus distance by self-talk on the learning of table tennis backhand. Methods: Therefore, 80 high school girls by mean age 16(+-0/62) yr. were randomly selected from sport school of Sanandaj and assigned to 5 groups. After pretest, the participants performed 180 forehand strokes during 6 sessions with repeating the words *slightly rotation* in the internal focus group *slightly open* in the near external focus group, *over the net* in the far external focus group, and each of the words *slightly rotation, slightly open, and over the net* respectively in each 2 sessions in the increasing distance of attentional focus group. Control group performed without self-talk during acquisition phase. Retention test was performed 48 hours after acquisition test in the same situation without self-talk, and after half an hour break, transfer test was done by changing the direction of target (parallel forehand) without self-talk. The accuracy and the pattern of forehand strokes were measured by a 5 point-scale (Liao and Masters, 2001) and researcher-made scale, respectively. At the end of acquisition phase, participants filled out the frequency and self-talk beliefs questionnaire. Results: According to the results of 2-factor mixed ANOVA, acquisition, retention, and transfer of backhand accuracy in internal focus of attention group were significantly lower than other groups (p<0.05). Furthermore, the effect of increasing attentional focus distance on acquisition of backhand pattern was significant. The effect of near external attentional focus on retention of pattern was significant. But transfer of stroke pattern in control group was significantly more than far external focus group (p<0.05). Conclusions: Thus, it is recommended to use self-talk by increasing attentional focus and near external attentional focus and not to use internal focus of attention to instruct backhand to novice adolescents.
Exclusion of Older Patients From Ongoing Clinical Trials for Hematological Malignancies: An Evaluation of the National Institutes of Health Clinical Trial Registry
Authors: Hamaker Marije E. , Stauder Reinhard , van Munster Barbara C.
Published: August 2014

Introduction.

Cancer societies, research cooperatives, and countless publications have urged the development of clinical trials that facilitate the inclusion of older patients and those with comorbidities. We set out to determine the characteristics of currently recruiting clinical trials with hematological patients to assess their inclusion and exclusion of elderly patients.

Methods.

The NIH clinical trial registry was searched on July 1, 2013, for currently recruiting phase I, II or III clinical trials with hematological malignancies. Trial characteristics and study objectives were extracted from the registry website.

Results.

Although 5% of 1,207 included trials focused exclusively on elderly or unfit patients, 69% explicitly or implicitly excluded older patients. Exclusion based on age was seen in 27% of trials, exclusion based on performance status was seen in 16%, and exclusion based on stringent organ function restrictions was noted in 51%. One-third of the studies that excluded older patients based on age allowed inclusion of younger patients with poor performance status; 8% did not place any restrictions on organ function. Over time, there was a shift from exclusion based on age (p value for trend <.001) toward exclusion based on organ function (p = .2). Industry-sponsored studies were least likely to exclude older patients (p < .001).

Conclusion.

Notably, 27% of currently recruiting clinical trials for hematological malignancies use age-based exclusion criteria. Although physiological reserves diminish with age, the heterogeneity of the elderly population does not legitimize exclusion based on chronological age alone. Investigators should critically review whether sufficient justification exists for every exclusion criterion before incorporating it in trial protocols.
Effect of axial compression ratio on dynamic mechanical properties of RC beam–column joints
Authors: Fan Guoxi , Song Yupu
Published: August 2014

The dynamic mechanical properties of 15 interior beam–column joint specimens subjected to various axial compression ratios are studied. Failure patterns of beam–column joints and development of cracks are predicted by a softened strut-and-tie model and binomial logistic regression model. According to the Coulomb failure criterion and Mohr's circle theory, a model to calculate the shear strength of concrete is derived under the shear compression state. In terms of the effects of different strain rates and axial compression ratios, the carrying capacity, stiffness and carrying capacity degradation, energy dissipation, displacement ductility, bond slip and failure mode of beam–column joints are discussed in detail. Finally, different building codes are selected to compare the results. It is found to be unsafe to substitute the dynamic strengths of concrete and reinforcement bar directly into the quasi-static design formulas to calculate the shear carrying capacity of the beam–column joint, because the shear carrying capacity of the joint is overestimated. To make a more reasonable assessment of the effect of strain rate and axial compression ratio, an empirical equation to predict the dynamic increase factor of horizontal shear carrying capacity of beam–column joints under different axial compression ratios and strain rates is proposed through multiple linear regression analysis.
Belowground bud banks of tallgrass prairie are insensitive to multi‐year, growing‐season drought
Authors: VanderWeide Benjamin L. , Hartnett David C. , Carter Daniel L.
Published: August 2014

In tallgrass prairie plant communities, new shoots are recruited from belowground bud banks, often in response to disturbance. We explored the contribution of belowground bud banks to grassland stability when perturbed by severe drought. We sought to quantify changes in bud bank density and demography, assess the contribution of the bud bank to aboveground net primary productivity, and compare shifts in above‐ and belowground plant community structure in response to drought. We experimentally reduced precipitation 76% from ambient levels for two years, and compared responses of drought plots to ambient and irrigated controls during the two years of drought and two years of recovery. We measured belowground bud bank density and aboveground shoot density, canopy cover, and aboveground net primary productivity. While aboveground net primary productivity and C4 grass flowering shoot density declined during drought, bud bank density was insensitive to drought. Rapid resilience of the aboveground plant community following cessation of drought appears to be mediated by the resistance of bud banks to drought. Shoot density, but not bud bank density, was positively correlated with total aboveground net primary productivity. Furthermore, proportional reductions in aboveground net primary productivity increased as shoot density increased. Plant community structure shifted both above‐ and belowground in response to precipitation treatments. Our results suggest that the response of perennial grasslands to drought may be mediated by the stable belowground bud bank, with shifts in abundance of individual species maintaining overall bud bank density and ecosystem function.
Changing forest structure across the landscape of the Sierra Nevada, CA, USA, since the 1930s
Authors: Dolanc Christopher R. , Safford Hugh D. , Thorne James H. , Dobrowski Solomon Z.
Published: August 2014

Understanding the dynamics of forest structure aids inference regarding future forests and their distributions around the world. Over the last few decades, several papers have addressed changing forest structure in the Sierra Nevada, CA, USA, but these studies were limited in scope. We carried out a broad comparison of forest density and composition in the 1930s versus the 2000s for the west slope of the central and northern Sierra Nevada, using the two most extensive data sets available. Forests in this region have endured a long, complex history of human disturbance, and are now experiencing climatic shifts. We subdivided the landscape into elevation and latitude zones and compared historical and modern tree densities within each zone. We compared densities in historical plots to burned and unburned modern plots, as well as densities of individual tree species in historical vs. modern plots for their entire elevational distribution. Density of small trees (10.2–30.4 cm dbh) was significantly higher in the modern data set for all elevations and all latitudes, ranging from 20 to 148% higher. However, density of large trees (≥61.0 cm) was lower in the modern data set for most elevations and latitudes, ranging from 41% to 60% lower in most zones. Density difference of mid‐sized trees (30.5–60.9 cm) was mixed, but was generally higher in modern plots. The pattern of more small trees but fewer large trees held for most individual species as well, but with notable exceptions. Our comparison of burned and unburned plots strongly implicates fire suppression as a driver of increased density of small trees in low‐ to mid‐elevation forests. However, modern high‐elevation (>2500 m) forests, where fire suppression impacts should be minimal, were also significantly denser than historical plots. Changing climatic conditions may be driving increased densities of small trees in high elevations, as well as decreased densities of large trees across the region.
The Effects of Bilateral Eye Movements on EEG Coherence When Recalling a Pleasant Memory
Authors: Keller Brandon , Stevens Larry , Lui Colleen , Murray James , Yaggie Matthew
Published: August 2014

In an investigation of the interhemispheric coherence (IhC) model for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) bilateral eye movement (BEM) effects, 30 participants were exposed to a stationary dot, a blinking red/green dot, or saccadic BEMs during the contemplation of a positive emotional memory. Electroencephalographies (EEGs) were measured afterward during an eyes-closed processing stage. Analyses revealed no significant IhC enhancement for the BEM condition but significant increases in Delta and Low Beta EEG intrahemispheric BEM coherence in the right and left frontal areas, respectively, and a trend increase in Right Frontal Low Beta BEM coherence. LORETA neuroimaging was employed to visually present significant amplitude changes corresponding to observed coherence effects. The functional significance of these intrahemispheric coherence effects is presented and a cortical coherence extension of the IhC model is suggested.
Compassion-Focused EMDR
Authors: Kennedy Angela
Published: August 2014

Compassion-focused therapy was developed to enhance physiological systems related to well-being, safeness, and connectedness in people where shame and self-criticism inhibited progress in therapy (Gilbert, 2000; Gilbert & Irons, 2005). This system links attachment experiences with emotion regulation capacities, with integrative capacities of the mind and also with the interplay between different motivational systems, which are played out in multiple self-states (Cortina & Liotti, 2010; Cozolino, 2010; Gilbert, 2009; Liotti & Gilbert, 2011). Hence, a compassionate focus could potentially prove valuable in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), particularly where shame or attachment trauma is involved or for those traumas that have impacted on the structure of the self, for example, dissociation. A structured compassion-focused EMDR (CF-EMDR) seems likely to be particularly useful for therapists wishing to pay positive attention to strengths and well-being. The primary task of the CF-EMDR therapist would therefore be to facilitate a warm and wise relationship to the problems that brought the person to EMDR. This article outlines the potential benefit of a compassionate focus in the processing phases of EMDR to address self-critical blocks, giving clinical examples in tables to illustrate the process and language.
The Effectiveness of EMDR in Reducing Psychological Distress in Survivors of Natural Disasters: A Review
Authors: Natha Fehmida , Daiches Anna
Published: August 2014

Natural disasters affect whole communities both at an individual level as well as economically and socially. However, the impact of natural disasters on an individual’s mental health is substantial; yet, the response to one’s mental health needs after a disaster is underdeveloped. Nevertheless, the Humanitarian Assistance Programme has attempted to address these needs by providing eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to natural disaster survivors. This systematic review provides evidence for the effectiveness and efficacy of EMDR in the treatment of psychological distress in survivors of natural disasters. Of the 8 studies reviewed, 4 were controlled trials and 1 study part-controlled. All the studies demonstrated statistical and clinical significance in reducing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, anxiety, depression, and other distress experienced by survivors of natural disasters. In addition, 4 of the 8 studies demonstrated clinical significance after just 1 session, presenting EMDR as resource-, time-, and cost-efficient intervention. Theoretical framework, adaptation in intervention, methodological issues, and quality assessment of studies are discussed. Implications for future research and clinical practice are also discussed.
Soybean–Cereal Intercropping Systems as Influenced by Nitrogen Nutrition
Authors: Layek J. , Shivakumar B. G. , Rana D. S. , Munda S. , Lakshman K. , Das A. , Ramkrushna G. I.
Published: August 2014

Little is known how to optimize N supply of cereal components in an intercropping system that considers biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) from soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. A 2‐yr field experiment was conducted to study the compatibility of soybean–cereals intercropping as influenced by varying N levels to intercropped cereals as per recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) for respective cereals. Soybean was grown as the main crop with 100% plant population and cereals were intercropped at 2:1 ratio in additive series (without sacrificing main crop population). While the yield of intercropped maize (Zea mays L.) significantly increased up to 100% RDN, the yield of intercropped sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.] and pearl millet [Pennisetum typhoides (Burm.f.) Stapf & C.E. Hubb.] increased only up to 75 and 50% RDN, respectively. The soybean yield reduced by 33.6, 37.9 and 58.3% due to intercropping with maize, sorghum and pearl millet, respectively. The soybean equivalent yield, net return, benefit cost ratio and monetary advantage index were maximum in soybean+maize intercropping provided with 100% RDN to maize. Land equivalent ratio, relative crowding coefficient and intercropping advantage were the greatest with soybean+maize intercropping proving that there was an advantage of intercropping with maize. The aggressivity and competitive ratio were higher for pearl millet and sorghum as compared to maize indicating that pearl millet and sorghum were more competitive to soybean than maize. The study indicated the possibility to reduce N fertilizer requirement by 25 and 50% in case of sorghum and pearl millet as intercrop with soybean, respectively.
Silage Yield and Nutritive Value of Millet–Soybean Intercrops as Influenced by Nitrogen Application
Authors: Jahanzad E. , Sadeghpour A. , Hosseini M. B. , Barker A. V. , Hashemi M. , Zandvakili O. R.
Published: August 2014

Shortage of irrigation water in arid and semi‐arid regions has forced forage producers to look for drought‐tolerant species for silage production. To evaluate silage yield and nutritive value of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] intercrops as influenced by intercropping ratios and N rates, a 2‐yr field experiment was conducted using split‐plot lay out on a randomized complete block (RCB) design. Main plots consisted of 0, 37, and 74 kg N ha–1 (N0, N37, and N74, respectively) and intercropping ratios of millet and soybean (50%M:50%S; 60%M:40%S; and 40%M:60%S) along with monocultures were assigned to subplots. Increasing N resulted in 9.9 and 17.6% silage yield increase at N37 and N74 levels compared with N0. Nitrogen also increased organic acids and ammonia nitrogen (NH3–N) content. Silage pH was lower (4.23) where no fertilizer was applied compared with the fertilized plants (4.33). The highest crude protein (CP) content (170 g kg–1 dry matter [DM]) and dry mass (248 g DM kg–1 fresh weight) was at the N74. Silage produced by the millet–soybean mixtures was well fermented indicated by low pH and high lactic acid. Also, intercropping ratios had less acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) than monocultures. Although all of the intercropping ratios had characteristics of well‐fermented silage, a mixture of 60% millet and 40% soybean could be superior because of higher silage yield and CP.
Sorption and Transport of Veterinary Pharmaceuticals in Soil—A Laboratory Study
Authors: Lee Jaehoon , Seo Youngho , Essington Michael E.
Published: August 2014

Land application of manure can change soil chemical properties, thus affecting fate and mobility of agricultural antibiotics in soil. The main objective of this study was to examine the effects of dissolved organic C (DOC) and background electrolyte cation type on the sorption and transport of chlortetracycline (CTC), tylosin (TYL), and sulfamethazine (SMT) in two different soils. A series of batch isotherm and column miscible displacement experiments were conducted using surface and subsurface soils of Etowah clay loam (fine‐loamy, siliceous, semiactive, thermic Typic Paleudults) and Captina sandy loam (fine‐silty, siliceous, active, mesic Typic Fragiudults). Decreased retention of CTC and TYL to soils was observed in the presence of Ca2+ ion compared with Na+. For example, the Freundlich coefficient (KF) for TYL ranged from 67 to 341 under a Na+ system while it ranged from 17 to 173 under a Ca2+ system. Sorption of CTC and TYL decreased on the addition of DOC extracted from dairy manure, while SMT sorption increased by DOC addition. For example, in the Ca2+ system, CTC KF values without DOC ranged from 2.40 × 103 to 4.84 × 103 while they ranged from 1.52 × 103 to 2.86 × 103 with the addition of DOC. Column transport experiments generally agreed with the batch study results, showing increased CTC mass recovery in effluents (i.e., increased from 2.1–4.3% for both surface and subsurface soils) and decreased retardation factors (R) in the presence of dairy manure DOC (i.e., from 890–371). The reduced CTC adsorption may be explained by competition between the DOC and CTC for sorption sites or by the aqueous association of CTC with DOC. Elevated levels of DOC also resulted in increased mobility of TYL and SMT for surface soil column. In summary, changes in background electrolyte cation type and DOC level in soil solution caused by addition of animal manure can influence fate and transport of agricultural antibiotics in soils.
The Role of Water Content in Electrical Resistivity Tomography of a Vertisol
Authors: Ackerson Jason P. , Morgan Cristine L. S. , Everett Mark E. , McInnes Kevin J.
Published: August 2014

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) has been suggested as a noninvasive approach for measuring cracks in Vertisols; however, its use has been limited, in part due to a lack of knowledge of the interactions between soil water content and electrical resistivity in cracking soils. In this study, we examined the relationship between soil water content and electrical resistivity for a Vertisol under cracked and noncracked conditions. Electrical resistivity was measured on soil clods, where desiccation does not result in cracking. Results showed that soil matrix electrical resistivity could be predicted from soil water content using an empirical model (RMSE = 8.3 Ωm andr2= 0.84). On a 4.5‐ by 5‐m area of a Vertisol, in situ measurements of bulk soil electrical resistivity and soil water content were made using three‐dimensional ERT and neutron soil moisture meter, respectively. Using the empirical model from soil clod measurements and field measured soil water content, we predicted the electrical resistivity of the in situ soil. When cracks were absent, measured soil electrical resistivity fell within the prediction intervals of the empirical model. When cracks were present, average measured electrical resistivity between the 0.2‐ and 0.8‐m depth exceeded predicted electrical resistivity by 15,200 Ωm. The increased electrical resistivity measured on cracked soil cannot solely be attributed to lower soil water content. We, therefore, concluded that cracking directly increased the bulk soil electrical resistivity. Additionally, these data showed that for soils with and without cracks, in situ measurements of soil electrical resistivity could not predict soil water content within the accuracy of the neutron soil moisture meter. Observed differences between in situ electrical resistivity of the soil matrix and bulk soil indicate that ERT might be utilized to nondestructively map soil cracking.
Impact of once-daily extended-release quetiapine fumarate on hospitalization length in patients with acute bipolar mania
Authors: Bonafede Machaon , Locklear Julie C , Wahlqvist Peter , Fajutrao Liberty , Szamosi Johan , Pan Katy , Eriksson Hans
Published: August 2014

Aims:
Evaluate the impact of quetiapine extended release (XR) versus quetiapine immediate release (IR) on hospitalization length in acute bipolar mania using Truven Health Analytics MarketScan
®
Hospital Drug Database.
Patients & methods:
Generalized linear model analyses were used, adjusting for patient and hospital characteristics.
Results:
Using data from 3088 discharges, quetiapine XR reduced hospitalization length by 6.7% versus quetiapine IR (p = 0.11; no statistically significant differences between groups), corresponding to 0.6 fewer days in hospital. Excluding the outlier, quetiapine XR significantly reduced hospitalization length by 9.6% versus quetiapine IR (p = 0.02), corresponding to 0.9 days.
Conclusion:
Inpatient use of quetiapine XR in acute bipolar mania may be associated with reduced hospitalization length (7–10%), possibly owing to the faster titration schedule versus quetiapine IR.
Hospital Discharge Algorithm Based on Admission HbA1c for the Management of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Umpierrez Guillermo E. , Reyes David , Smiley Dawn , Hermayer Kathie , Khan Amna , Olson Darin E. , Pasquel Francisco , Jacobs Sol , Newton Christopher , Peng Limin , Fonseca Vivian
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE

Effective treatment algorithms are needed to guide diabetes care at hospital discharge in general medicine and surgery patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a prospective, multicenter open-label study aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of a hospital discharge algorithm based on admission HbA1c. Patients with HbA1c <7% (53.0 mmol/mol) were discharged on their preadmission diabetes therapy, HbA1c between 7 and 9% (53.0–74.9 mmol/mol) were discharged on a preadmission regimen plus glargine at 50% of hospital daily dose, and HbA1c >9% were discharged on oral antidiabetes agents (OADs) plus glargine or basal bolus regimen at 80% of inpatient dose. The primary outcome was HbA1c concentration at 12 weeks after hospital discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 224 patients were discharged on OAD (36%), combination of OAD and glargine (27%), basal bolus (24%), glargine alone (9%), and diet (4%). The admission HbA1c was 8.7 ± 2.5% (71.6 mmol/mol) and decreased to 7.3 ± 1.5% (56 mmol/mol) at 12 weeks of follow-up (P < 0.001). The change of HbA1c from baseline at 12 weeks after discharge was −0.1 ± 0.6, −0.8 ± 1.0, and −3.2 ± 2.4 in patients with HbA1c <7%, 7–9%, and >9%, respectively (P < 0.001). Hypoglycemia (<70 mg/dL) was reported in 22% of patients discharged on OAD only, 30% on OAD plus glargine, 44% on basal bolus, and 25% on glargine alone and was similar in patients with admission HbA1c ≤7% (26%) compared with those with HbA1c >7% (31%, P = 0.54).

CONCLUSIONS

Measurement of HbA1c on admission is beneficial in tailoring treatment regimens at discharge in general medicine and surgery patients with type 2 diabetes.
Serum High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Levels Are Associated With High Risk of Development, Not Progression, of Diabetic Nephropathy Among Japanese Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study (Diabetes Distress and Care Registry at Tenri [DDCRT7])
Authors: Hayashino Yasuaki , Mashitani Tsuyoshi , Tsujii Satoru , Ishii Hitoshi ,   for the Diabetes Distress and Care Registry at Tenri Study Group
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prospective association between baseline serum hs-CRP concentration and the subsequent risk of development or progression of diabetic nephropathy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Longitudinal data were obtained from 2,518 patients with type 2 diabetes registered in a Japanese diabetes registry. To assess the independent correlations between serum baseline hs-CRP and either the development or progression of diabetic nephropathy 1 year later, the Cox proportional hazards model was used and adjusted for potential confounders.

RESULTS

The mean patient age, BMI, and HbA1c level were 66.1 years, 24.6 kg/m2, and 7.5% (57.6 mmol/mol), respectively. Baseline serum hs-CRP levels were significantly associated with the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio at baseline (P < 0.001). Multivariable adjusted hazard ratio for the development from normoalbuminuria to microalbuminuria was 1.31 (95% CI 0.80–2.17; P = 0.286), 1.55 (1.16–2.08; P = 0.003), and 1.57 (1.22–2.03; P = 0.001), respectively, for the second, third, and fourth quartiles of serum hs-CRP levels, showing a statistically significant linear trend across categories (P < 0.001). We did not observe a significant association between hs-CRP levels and the subsequent risk of diabetic nephropathy progression (P for trend = 0.575).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum hs-CRP levels, independent of possible confounders, were associated with a subsequent risk of developing, not progressing, diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetic patients. Serum hs-CRP may be useful for predicting the future risk of developing diabetic nephropathy.
miR-375 induces human decidua basalis-derived stromal cells to become insulin-producing cells
Authors: Shaer Anahita , Azarpira Negar , Vahdati Akbar , Karimi Mohammad , Shariati Mehrdad
Published: August 2014

This paper focuses on the development of renewable sources of isletreplacement tissue for the treatment of type I diabetes mellitus. Placental tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising source for regenerative medicine due to their plasticity and easy availability. They have the potential to differentiate into insulin-producing cells. miR-375 is a micro RNA that is expressed in the pancreas and involved in islet development. Human placental decidua basalis MSCs (PDB-MSCs) were cultured from full-term human placenta. The immunophenotype of the isolated cells was checked for CD90, CD105, CD44, CD133 and CD34 markers. The MSCs (P3) were chemically transfected with hsa-miR-375. Total RNA was extracted 4 and 6 days after transfection. The expressions of insulin, NGN3, GLUT2, PAX4, PAX6, KIR6.2, NKX6.1, PDX1, and glucagon genes were evaluated using real-time qPCR. On day 6, we tested the potency of the clusters in response to the high glucose challenge and assessed the presence of insulin and NGN3 proteins via immunocytochemistry. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed that more than 90% of the cells were positive for CD90, CD105 and CD44 and negative for CD133 and CD34. Morphological changes were followed from day 2. Cell clusters formed during day 6. Insulin-producing clusters showed a deep red color with DTZ. The expression of pancreatic-specific transcription factors increased remarkably during the four days after transfection and significantly increased on day 7. The clusters were positive for insulin and NGN3 proteins, and C-peptide and insulin secretion increased in response to changes in the glucose concentration (2.8 mM and 16.7 mM). In conclusion, the MSCs could be programmed into functional insulin-producing cells by transfection of miR-375.
Alveolar echinococcosis in a highly endemic area of northern Slovakia between 2000 and 2013
Authors: Antolová D , Miterpáková M , Radoňák J , Hudačková D , Szilágyiová M , Žáček M
Published: August 2014

Long-term surveillance of Echinococcus multilocularis occurrence in red foxes in Slovakia revealed the existence of highly endemic areas, with an overall prevalence rate of 41.6 % in the northern part of the country. Between 2000 and 2013, 26 human cases of alveolar echinococcosis were detected and only three of them were not in endemic localities in northern Slovakia. Remarkable is the occurrence of the disease in eight people younger than 35 years, including three patients aged eight, 14 and 19 years. Occurrence of E. multilocularis in red foxes throughout the country and high incidence of alveolar echinococcosis in young people indicate high infectious pressure in the environment of northern Slovakia. It can be assumed that the real incidence of alveolar echinococcosis is significantly higher than recorded by official data due to the lack of existing registration and reporting system. For effective management of prevention and control strategies for this disease improvement of the national surveillance system and engagement of specialists outside the medical community are necessary. Our study presents a comprehensive picture of the epidemiological situation of E. multilocularis in northern Slovakia. In addition, we report the first list of confirmed human cases of this serious parasitosis in Slovakia.
Effectiveness of seasonal trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine in preventing influenza hospitalisations and primary care visits in Auckland, New Zealand, in 2013
Authors: Turner N , Pierse N , Bissielo A , Huang Q S , Radke S , Baker M G , Widdowson M  A , Kelly H , on behalf of the SHIVERS investigation team Collective
Published: August 2014

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Gonococcal infections and emergence of gonococcal decreased susceptibility to cephalosporins in France, 2001 to 2012
Authors: La Ruche G , Goubard A , Berçot B , Cambau E , Semaille C , Sednaoui P
Published: August 2014

Resistance to cephalosporins may lead to untreatable gonococcal infections. We describe the results of the sentinel surveillance of gonococcal infections and the evolution of the resistance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to antibiotics in France from 2001 to 2012. We also analyse the factors associated with decreased susceptibility to third generation cephalosporins. In France, surveillance of gonococcal infections is conducted through a network of voluntarily participating laboratories. Strains are sent to the national reference laboratory to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for six antibiotics. During the study period, the number of gonococcal infections increased steadily. The susceptibility of 8,649 strains was studied for this period. The proportion of strains with decreased susceptibility to cefixime (MIC>0.125 mg/L) quadrupled between 2011 (0.7%:10/1,521) and 2012 (3.0%: 33/1,093; p<0.001). Between 2001 and 2012, only two of the 8,649 strains, both collected in 2010, had a MIC>0.125 mg/L for ceftriaxone. Decreased susceptibility to cephalosporins increased with older age and was more common in pharyngeal strains. Decreased susceptibility to cefixime may indicate that the national recommendation to use ceftriaxone as a first line treatment for cases of urethritis and cervicitis has not been fully implemented. Enhanced surveillance of pharyngeal strains is strongly suggested.
Age-related differences in unruptured intracranial aneurysms: 1-year outcomes
Authors: Mahaney Kelly B. , Brown Robert D. , Meissner Irene , Piepgras David G. , Huston John , Zhang Jie , Torner James C.
Published: August 2014

Object

The aim of this study was to determine age-related differences in short-term (1-year) outcomes in patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs).

Methods

Four thousand fifty-nine patients prospectively enrolled in the International Study of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms were categorized into 3 groups by age at enrollment: < 50, 50–65, and > 65 years old. Outcomes assessed at 1 year included aneurysm rupture rates, combined morbidity and mortality from aneurysm procedure or hemorrhage, and all-cause mortality. Periprocedural morbidity, in-hospital morbidity, and poor neurological outcome on discharge (Rankin scale score of 3 or greater) were assessed in surgically and endovascularly treated groups. Univariate and multivariate associations of each outcome with age were tested.

Results

The risk of aneurysmal hemorrhage did not increase significantly with age. Procedural and in-hospital morbidity and mortality increased with age in patients treated with surgery, but remained relatively constant with increasing age with endovascular treatment. Poor neurological outcome from aneurysm- or procedure-related morbidity and mortality did not differ between management groups for patients 65 years old and younger, but was significantly higher in the surgical group for patients older than 65 years: 19.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 13.9%–24.4%), compared with 8.0% (95% CI 2.3%–13.6%) in the endovascular group and 4.2% (95% CI 2.3%–6.2%) in the observation group. All-cause mortality increased steadily with increasing age, but differed between treatment groups only in patients < 50 years of age, with the surgical group showing a survival advantage at 1 year.

Conclusions

Surgical treatment of UIAs appears to be safe, prevents 1-year hemorrhage, and may confer a survival benefit in patients < 50 years of age. However, surgery poses a significant risk of morbidity and death in patients > 65 years of age. Risk of endovascular treatment does not appear to increase with age. Risks and benefits of treatment in older patients should be carefully considered, and if treatment is deemed necessary for patients older than 65 years, endovascular treatment may be the best option.
Neurostimulation for traumatic brain injury
Authors: Shin Samuel S. , Dixon C. Edward , Okonkwo David O. , Richardson R. Mark
Published: August 2014

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a significant public health problem and is a leading cause of death and disability in many countries. Durable treatments for neurological function deficits following TBI have been elusive, as there are currently no FDA-approved therapeutic modalities for mitigating the consequences of TBI. Neurostimulation strategies using various forms of electrical stimulation have recently been applied to treat functional deficits in animal models and clinical stroke trials. The results from these studies suggest that neurostimulation may augment improvements in both motor and cognitive deficits after brain injury. Several studies have taken this approach in animal models of TBI, showing both behavioral enhancement and biological evidence of recovery. There have been only a few studies using deep brain stimulation (DBS) in human TBI patients, and future studies are warranted to validate the feasibility of this technique in the clinical treatment of TBI. In this review, the authors summarize insights from studies employing neurostimulation techniques in the setting of brain injury. Moreover, they relate these findings to the future prospect of using DBS to ameliorate motor and cognitive deficits following TBI.
Vascular complications of penetrating brain injury: comparison of helical CT angiography and conventional angiography
Authors: Bodanapally Uttam K. , Shanmuganathan Kathirkamanathan , Boscak Alexis R. , Jaffray Paul M. , Van der Byl Giulia , Roy Ashis K. , Dreizin David , Fleiter Thorsten R. , Mirvis Stuart E. , Krejza Jaroslaw , Aarabi Bizhan
Published: August 2014

Object

The authors conducted a study to compare the sensitivity and specificity of helical CT angiography (CTA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in detecting intracranial arterial injuries after penetrating traumatic brain injury (PTBI).

Methods

In a retrospective evaluation of 48 sets of angiograms from 45 consecutive patients with PTBI, 3 readers unaware of the DSA findings reviewed the CTA images to determine the presence or absence of arterial injuries. A fourth reader reviewed all the disagreements and decided among the 3 interpretations. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of CTA were calculated on a per-injury basis and in a subpopulation of patients with traumatic intracranial aneurysms (TICAs).

Results

Sensitivity of CTA for detecting arterial injuries was 72.7% (95% CI 49.8%–89.3%); specificity, 93.5% (95% CI 78.6%–99.2%); PPV, 88.9% (95% CI 65.3%–98.6%); and NPV, 82.9% (95% CI 66.4%–93.4%). All 7 TICAs were correctly identified by CTA. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of CTA in detecting TICAs were 100%. To compare agreement with DSA, the standard of reference, confidence scores categorized as low, intermediate, and high probability yielded an overall effectiveness of 77.8% (95% CI 71.8%–82.9%).

Conclusions

Computed tomography angiography had limited overall sensitivity in detecting arterial injuries in patients with PTBI. However, it was accurate in identifying TICAs, a subgroup of injuries usually managed by either surgical or endovascular approaches, and non-TICA injuries involving the first-order branches of intracranial arteries.
Restoration of hand function in C7–T1 brachial plexus palsies using a staged approach with nerve and tendon transfer
Authors: Zhang Cheng-Gang , Dong Zhen , Gu Yu-Dong
Published: August 2014

Brachial plexus palsies of C7–T1 result in the complete loss of hand function, including finger and thumb flexion and extension as well as intrinsic muscle function. The task of reanimating such a hand remains challenging, and so far there has been no reliable neurological reconstructive method for restoring hand function. The authors aimed to establish a reliable strategy to reanimate the paralyzed hand. Two patients had sustained C7–T1 complete lesions. In the first stage of the operative procedure, a supinator motor branch to posterior interosseous nerve transfer was performed with brachialis motor branch transfer to the median nerve to restore finger and thumb extension and flexion. In the second stage, the intact brachioradialis muscle was used for abductorplasty to restore thumb opposition. Both patients regained good finger extension and flexion. Thumb opposition was also attained, and overall hand function was satisfactory. The described strategy proved effective and reliable in restoring hand function after C7–T1 brachial plexus palsies.