bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monoclonal antibodies: Pharmacokinetics as a basis for new dosage regimens?
Authors: Azanza J-R , Sádaba B , Gómez-Guiu A
Published: June 2014

Complete monoclonal IgG antibodies which are in use in clinical practice share some pharmacological properties resulting in high concentrations in plasma. This fact is reflected in their low volumes of distribution, which can also be correlated with a high molecular weight and water solubility. This feature allows a novel approach to be applied to the dosing schedule for this group of drugs with fixed doses being used instead of the initially developed weight- or body surface-adjusted dosing schedules. In addition, the development of a new formulation containing hyaluronidase allows a subcutaneous route of administration to be used, because hyaluronidase creates a space in the subcutaneous tissue that helps antibody absorption. This method requires higher doses, but has allowed testing the feasibility of administering a fixed dose, with no individual dose adjustments based on weight or body surface. Moreover, loading doses are not needed, because the first dose results, within 3 weeks, in minimum concentrations that are higher than effective concentrations.
Effect of static electricity on static friction force between plastic film and steel roller
Authors: Hashimoto Hiromu , Sunami Yuta , Fujita Hagino
Published: June 2014

To establish the new technology named Roll-to-Roll Printed Electronics, which can be applied to manufacture the high functional thin film based devices such as flexible displays, batteries, and electric skins, it is needed to combine the roll-to-roll transportation system and coating technology effectively. For that purpose, one of important factors to be considered is the effect of electrostatic force on the friction characteristics between the film and roller surface. In this paper, the static friction between the plastic film (polyethylene terephthalate film) and steel roller was measured to clarify the effect of electrostatic force on the friction characteristics. The static friction was measured by pulley method while changing the film thickness, web tension, and relative humidity of ambient air. In the process it was found that both the decrease in the film thickness and increase in relative humidity of the air have an effect of an increase in the static friction coefficient in the system. Moreover, the tendency can be pronounced with the decrease in the web tension.
Effect of surface parameters on finite element method based deterministic Gaussian rough surface contact model
Authors: Megalingam A , Mayuram MM
Published: June 2014

Three-dimensional rough surface contact models enrich the understanding of the influence of surface texture in rough surface contacts. Most of the existing contact models did not consider the effect of elasto-plastic deformation and neighboring asperity interactions for the rough surface contact analysis, or only to a limited extent. In the present work, three-dimensional contact analyses of Gaussian rough surfaces are carried out using finite element method. By fast Fourier transform approach, Gaussian rough surfaces having auto-correlation lengths of 0.5, 2.0, 5.0, and 10 µm and surface roughness of 0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 µm are generated. The generated rough surfaces are transferred to finite element method based ANSYS package for micro-contact analysis. The continuity of elastic, elasto-plastic, and plastic deformations of near realistic feature-based asperities and effects of asperity interactions are inherently included in the present analysis. Each rough surface contact analysis is carried out in such a manner to cover the entire asperity distribution with incremental displacements. The contact load, real area of contact, and contact pressure are extracted from each analysis. The results showed that the surface having low surface roughness, the asperities deform mostly elastically whereas in medium and high surface roughness surfaces, the elasto-plastic and plastic deformation of asperities are significant and also in low auto-correlation length surface, the intensification of sub surface stresses cause the mean contact pressure ratio to reach peak value whereas in high auto correlation length surface, the larger size of asperities and the neighboring asperity interaction keep the mean contact pressure ratio at low level.
Differences and similarities in the explanation of ethnic minority groups’ trust in the police
Authors: Van Craen Maarten , Skogan Wesley G.
Published: June 2014

Little is yet known about which factors influence the trust in the police of different ethnic minorities in European countries. This article is a step towards filling in that gap. To assess differences and similarities in the explanation of minority groups’ trust, we replicated a recent study on Turkish and Moroccan minority group members’ trust in the Belgian police (Van Craen, 2013). The study on which we report here shifted the focus from traditional minority groups in Belgium to a new immigrant group: Polish immigrants. We anticipated that our findings would depart in two ways. We hypothesized that social capital and perceptions of discrimination would not play an important role in the explanation of Polish immigrants’ trust in the Belgian police. Regression analyses on data gathered in the city of Antwerp ( N = 418) suggest that there is no correlation between Polish immigrants’ social capital and their trust in law enforcement. However, perceptions of discrimination are a key explanatory factor for this minority group too. Implications for theorization and research are discussed.
Exercise-induced regulation of matrix metalloproteinases in the skeletal muscle of subjects with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Scheede-Bergdahl Celena , Bergdahl Andreas , Schjerling Peter , Qvortrup Klaus , Koskinen Satu O , Dela Flemming
Published: June 2014

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP) play a critical role during vascular remodelling, in both health and disease. Impaired MMP regulation is associated with many diabetes-related complications. This study examined whether exercise-induced regulation of MMPs is maintained in the skeletal muscle of patients with uncomplicated type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Subjects [12 T2DM, 9 healthy control subjects (CON)] underwent 8 weeks of physical training. Messenger RNA (mRNA) was measured at baseline, during and after 8 weeks of training. Protein was measured pre- and post-training. At baseline, there were no effects of diabetes on MMP or TIMP mRNA or protein. mRNA and protein response to training was similar in both groups, except active MMP-2 protein was elevated post training in T2DM only. Our results indicate that exercise-induced stimulation of MMPs is preserved in skeletal muscle of patients with T2DM. This early stage of diabetes may provide an opportunity for intervention and prevention of complications.
Pathways From Bullying Perpetration, Victimization, and Bully Victimization to Suicidality Among School-Aged Youth
Authors: Hong Jun Sung , Kral Michael J. , Sterzing Paul R.
Published: June 2014

In the wake of several highly publicized adolescent suicides attributed to bullying victimization, national attention has been brought to bear on the profound public health problem of bullying. This article reviews the extant literature on the associations between bullying perpetration, victimization, and thoughts of or attempts at suicide and proposes five potential mediators, namely depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loneliness, and hopelessness, that may explain this relationship. Numerous studies have found empirical support for the interrelations between internalizing behaviors and both bullying perpetration and victimization and suicide. We find that further longitudinal research needs to be conducted to more conclusively determine the role and causal ordering these various psychosocial factors may play in bullying perpetration, victimization, and suicide. Although the research literature implies causal directions among all these potential mediators, untangling the unique influence of bullying perpetration, victimization, and bully victimization on suicide and its mechanisms of action has major research and practice implications.
Development of insecticide-incorporated knitted fabric having long-lasting efficiency
Authors: Katiyar Priyanka , Mishra Shraddha , Singh Dev , Chandra Lal , Srivastava Anurag , Saxena Arvind K
Published: June 2014

Insecticide-incorporated knitted fabrics are used to provide long-term efficacy against mosquitoes. This article described the method for making insecticide-incorporated filaments by using bi-component-spinning technique having core-sheath morphology whereas deltamethrin has been incorporated in the sheath-containing high-density polyethylene. The concentration of the deltamethrin is varied from 0.25% to 0.75% to assess its impact on bioassay efficacy. The developed filaments subsequently converted into knitted structure and possess excellent insecticidal efficiency even after 20 wash cycles and therefore can be effectively used for the fabrication of knitted mosquito nets. The residual deltamethrin content was also evaluated after successive wash cycles.
Can Experiences of Authentic Scientific Inquiry Result in Transformational Learning?
Authors: Walker Tracy , Molnar Tim
Published: June 2014

This work examines the experience of secondary school students involved in authentic science inquiry (ASI) at the Canadian Light Source. We suggest this experience is a transformational learning experience for participants. Using evidence from surveys and interviews from a total of 119 high school students, 23 teachers, and 18 scientists participating in the Students on the Beamline project during 2007–2010, we employ a transformational learning theory framework (Cranton, 2002; Mezirow, 1997a, b; Imel, 1998) in an interpretive approach to determine the extent this experience is transformative. Discussions of ASI and transformational learning are provided. Our investigation suggests that transformational learning can occur through such learning activity highlighted, for example, by changes in student perceptions of scientists, perceptions of themselves as capable of sophisticated science investigation, and considerations of science as a future life endeavour.
Compliance and echographic carotid plaque evolution in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with atorvastatin according to usual care
Authors: Delgado Montserrat G , Naves Manuel
Published: June 2014

The aim of the paper is to assess the compliance and efficacy of atorvastatin treatment according to usual care on carotid atheromatous plaque and lipids during follow-up for one year in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Sixty-six patients were included. Morphological plaque characteristics were described and a complete blood analysis was performed at admission and at one year. Nineteen patients stopped treatment. Lipid reduction was significant in triglycerides, cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, with an increase in HDL cholesterol. Morphological characteristics of carotid plaque were not modified. In conclusion, an irregular compliance has been seen in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with atorvastatin according to usual care. Nearly one-third of our patients stopped the treatment before the course of a year. The effect on lipids and its pleiotropic effect on atheromatous carotid artery disease might support the long-term use of atorvastatin, regardless of the dose, in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Animal models of atherosclerosis and magnetic resonance imaging for monitoring plaque progression
Authors: Millon Antoine , Canet-Soulas Emmanuelle , Boussel Loic , Fayad Zahi , Douek Philippe
Published: June 2014

Atherosclerosis, the main cause of heart attack and stroke, is the leading cause of death in most modern countries. Preventing clinical events depends on a better understanding of the mechanism of atherosclerotic plaque destabilization. Our knowledge on the characteristics of vulnerable plaques in humans has grown past decades. Histological studies have provided a precise definition of high-risk lesions and novel imaging methods for human atherosclerotic plaque characterization have made significant progress. However the pathological mechanisms leading from stable lesions to the formation of vulnerable plaques remain uncertain and the related clinical events are unpredictable. An animal model mimicking human plaque destablization is required as well as an in vivo imaging method to assess and monitor atherosclerosis progression. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is increasingly used for in vivo assessment of atherosclerotic plaques in the human carotids. MRI provides well-characterized morphological and functional features of human atherosclerotic plaque which can be also assessed in animal models. This review summarizes the most common species used as animal models for experimental atherosclerosis, the techniques to induce atherosclerosis and to obtain vulnerable plaques, together with the role of MRI for monitoring atherosclerotic plaques in animals.
Carotid axillary artery bypass: an option following failed open and percutaneous procedures
Authors: Orozco Vicente , Impellizzeri Paul , Naftalovich Rotem , Dardik Herbert
Published: June 2014

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting is being employed with increasing frequency for stenosis involving the brachiocephalic circulation. However, the efficacy of these procedures is limited by intimal hyperplasia and subsequent re-stenosis. Long-term results for treating lesions of the subclavian or innominate artery have shown significant re-stenotic rate. Accordingly, carotid–subclavian bypass remains as an important procedure. Alternative methods may still be required, particularly after failure of open re-vascularization and percutaneous techniques. This report describes an underused technique that enables upper extremity revascularization following prior attempts at endovascular and standard open techniques.
Long-term outcome after surgical and endovascular management of true and false subclavian artery aneurysms
Authors: Zehm Sarah , Chemelli Andreas , Jaschke Werner , Fraedrich Gustav , Rantner Barbara
Published: June 2014

Subclavian artery aneurysm is a rare but serious disease due to the risk of thrombosis, embolization, rupture and compression of adjacent structures. Treatment consists of surgical and endovascular techniques. Up to now few long-term follow-up results have been reported. In our study the results from 15 patients treated for subclavian artery aneurysms were evaluated. Eleven patients underwent open surgical reconstruction, four patients were treated endovascularly. After a mean follow-up period of 77 months (83 months for the open surgical group, 38 months for the endovascular group), 10 of 11 open surgical reconstructions and all primarily implanted stent grafts were patent. Secondary intervention was necessary in two patients. Thirty-day mortality for both treatment groups was 0%. Subclavian artery aneurysm-related symptoms disappeared in six out of 10 patients after the treatment. Long-term outcomes with good technical results, patency rates and low periprocedural morbidity could be shown in both treatment groups.
Late onset venous thoracic outlet syndrome following clavicle non-union fracture: A case report
Authors: Wong Daniel J , Holm Tammy M , Dyer George SM , Gates Jonathan D
Published: June 2014

A 59-year-old woman was admitted three times over a six-month period with recurrent upper extremity deep venous thrombosis (UEDVT). It was determined that this patient was suffering from an unusual presentation of Paget-Schröetter syndrome secondary to a 20-year-old non-union of a midshaft clavicle fracture. Following thrombolysis the patient underwent resection and plate fixation of the clavicle fracture non-union. Despite the anatomic proximity of the subclavian vessels to the clavicle, vascular complications from fracture are rare. Treatment of midshaft clavicle fractures is often non-operative. Non-union rates are generally less than 10%, and easily treated secondarily without complication. Clavicular pseudo-arthroses from trauma have been implicated in the development of the thoracic outlet syndromes, however, onset 20 years after fracture has never before been reported.
A rare cause of massive haematuria: Internal iliac artery-ureteric fistula
Authors: Rao Ahsan M , Khalil Ahmed , Suttie Stuart
Published: June 2014

Ureteric fistula into the arterial tree is a well-recognised, but uncommon condition. The involvement of internal iliac artery is rare. We present a rare case of fistulous communication and subsequent infection of an internal iliac artery aneurysm and ureter secondary to insertion of ureteric stent following endovascular exclusion of the aneurysm and its management. Nephrostogram identified the fistula not seen on computerised tomography. This case highlights the awareness of such pathology allowing for prompt recognition of the condition and importance of appropriate imaging.
Optimization of behavioral dynamic treatment regimens based on the sequential, multiple assignment, randomized trial (SMART)
Authors: Collins Linda M , Nahum-Shani Inbal , Almirall Daniel
Published: June 2014

Background and purpose

A behavioral intervention is a program aimed at modifying behavior for the purpose of treating or preventing disease, promoting health, and/or enhancing well-being. Many behavioral interventions are dynamic treatment regimens, that is, sequential, individualized multicomponent interventions in which the intensity and/or type of treatment is varied in response to the needs and progress of the individual participant. The multiphase optimization strategy (MOST) is a comprehensive framework for development, optimization, and evaluation of behavioral interventions, including dynamic treatment regimens. The objective of optimization is to make dynamic treatment regimens more effective, efficient, scalable, and sustainable. An important tool for optimization of dynamic treatment regimens is the sequential, multiple assignment, randomized trial (SMART). The purpose of this article is to discuss how to develop optimized dynamic treatment regimens within the MOST framework.

Methods and results

The article discusses the preparation, optimization, and evaluation phases of MOST. It is shown how MOST can be used to develop a dynamic treatment regimen to meet a prespecified optimization criterion. The SMART is an efficient experimental design for gathering the information needed to optimize a dynamic treatment regimen within MOST. One signature feature of the SMART is that randomization takes place at more than one point in time.

Conclusion

MOST and SMART can be used to develop optimized dynamic treatment regimens that will have a greater public health impact.
Point-of-Care Blood Glucose Testing for Diabetes Care in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Rajendran Rajesh , Rayman Gerry
Published: June 2014

Glycemic control in hospitalized patients with diabetes requires accurate near-patient glucose monitoring systems. In the past decade, point-of-care blood glucose monitoring devices have become the mainstay of near-patient glucose monitoring in hospitals across the world. In this article, we focus on its history, accuracy, clinical use, and cost-effectiveness. Point-of-care devices have evolved from 1.2 kg instruments with no informatics to handheld lightweight portable devices with advanced connectivity features. Their accuracy however remains a subject of debate, and new standards for their approval have now been issued by both the International Organization for Standardization and the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. While their cost-effectiveness remains to be proved, their clinical value for managing inpatients with diabetes remains unchallenged. This evidence-based review provides an overall view of its use in the hospital setting.
Critical social thinking
Authors: Grossman Rebecca , Thayer Amanda L. , Shuffler Marissa L. , Burke C. Shawn , Salas Eduardo
Published: June 2014

As technology, globalization, changing work demands, and a growing reliance on teams are changing the work environment, the social complexity surrounding work functions is increasing dramatically. While a variety of socially relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) have been examined, we argue that studying them in isolation is no longer sufficient, as individuals require a repertoire of KSAs that must be utilized in combination to be effective in complex social situations. Thus, we propose the construct critical social thinking (CST), a holistic, integrated approach to understanding the processes that enable individuals to function in such settings, and the KSAs that are necessary for each process. Because the significance of the CST construct is closely tied to the growing need for it in practice, we also integrate disparate training findings and link them to components of our conceptual model, enabling us to put forth initial insights regarding the approaches through which CST can be trained effectively.
Comparison of bias resulting from two methods of self-reporting height and weight: a validation study
Authors: Scribani Melissa , Shelton Jessica , Chapel David , Krupa Nicole , Wyckoff Lynae , Jenkins Paul
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To contrast the validity of two modes of self-reported height and weight data.

Design

Subjects’ self-reported height and weight by mailed survey without expectation of subsequent measurement. Subjects were later offered a physical exam, where they self-reported their height and weight again, just prior to measurement. Regression equations to predict actual from self-reported body mass index (BMI) were fitted for both sets of self-reported values. Residual analyses assessed bias resulting from application of each regression equation to the alternative mode of self-report. Analyses were stratified by gender.

Setting

Upstate New York.

Participants

Subjects ( n = 260) with survey, pre-exam and measured BMI.

Main outcome measures

Prevalence of obesity based on two modes of self-report and also measured values. Bias resulting from misapplication of correction equations.

Results

Accurate prediction of measured BMI was possible for both self-report modes for men ( R2 = 0.89 survey, 0.85 pre-exam) and women ( R2 = 0.92 survey, 0.97 pre-exam). Underreporting of BMI was greater for survey than pre-exam but only significantly so in women. Obesity prevalence was significantly underestimated by 10.9% ( p < 0.001) and 14.9% ( p < 0.001) for men and 5.4% ( p = 0.007) and 11.2% ( p < 0.001) for women, for pre-exam and survey, respectively. Residual analyses showed that significant bias results when a regression model derived from one mode of self-report is used to correct BMI values estimated from the alternative mode.

Conclusions

Both modes significantly underestimated obesity prevalence. Underestimation of actual BMI is greater for survey than pre-exam self-report for both genders, indicating that equations adjusting for self-report bias must be matched to the self-report mode.
Thoracic amyloidomas: Two case reports of an evasive diagnosis
Authors: Cresner Rosie , Mahmood Shameem , Chen Jane , Rowan Camilla , Wechalekar Ashutosh D
Published: June 2014

Lesson

Amyloidosis is a rare differential diagnosis of a mass detected in the chest. Amyloidoma is caused by a local proliferation of clonal B-cells secreting an unstable immunoglobulin light chain which accumulates. FDG-PET scan are useful but not specific. Treatment is generally by local resection for treatment of symptoms.

We report two cases of amyloidomas, which are rare entities characterised by large local amyloid deposits. These can occur in the upper respiratory tract, soft tissues and central nervous system. 1
Antiplatelet antibodies in oxaliplatin-induced immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Mittal Kriti , McNamara Michael J , Curtis Brian R , McCrae Keith R
Published: June 2014

Lesson

Drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia may be potentially fatal; here we report the development of severe thrombocytopenia with strong oxaliplatin-dependent antiplatelet antibodies.
Correlates of Knowledge of HIV Transmission Among Incident Cases of HIV in a Cohort of Injection Drug Users Receiving Harm Reduction Services at Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Samo Rab Nawaz , Altaf Arshad , Shah Sharaf Ali
Published: June 2014

Background:

Knowledge of risk factors for HIV transmission in high-risk population plays a critical role in averting the risk of HIV transmission. In Pakistan, injection drug users (IDUs) constitute the core risk group of HIV prevalence, where the epidemic has transitioned to a “concentrated level.” Still nothing is known about the role of knowledge in HIV transmission and HIV sero-conversion among IDUs in Pakistan.

Methods:

From 2009 to 2011, a nested case–control study was conducted in a cohort of 636 IDUs receiving harm reduction services in the mega city of Karachi.

Results:

In multivariable regression analysis, 3 factors, namely HIV does not spread through unprotected sex (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 3.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39-6.90, P value .01), HIV does not transmit by sharing syringes (AOR: 3.5, 95% CI 1.97-6.40, P value <.00), and the risk of HIV cannot be minimized by using new syringe every time (AOR: 2.0, 95% CI 1.16-3.60, P value .01), were significantly associated with the incident cases of HIV.

Conclusion:

The study findings suggest the association between knowledge of HIV transmission and HIV sero-incident cases.
Processing of nanocrystalline copper by mechanochemical reduction of CuO and Cu2O with graphite
Authors: Sheibani S. , Ataie A. , Heshmati-Manesh S. , Khayati G. R.
Published: June 2014

The preparation of nanocrystalline Cu by mechanochemical reaction of carbon with copper oxides, CuO and Cu2O, has been studied. The phase and structural transformations, crystallite size, lattice micro strain and lattice parameters were characterised using X-ray diffraction (XRD). Morphology of the synthesis products was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that the reduction process of CuO to Cu takes place in two steps, while Cu was produced directly through one step from Cu2O. In addition, kinetics of nucleation and formation of Cu through solid state reduction of CuO is different from the reduction of Cu2O. The results reveal that the average crystallite size of copper derived from CuO after 100 h milling is ∼18 nm, while for copper derived from Cu2O after 30 h is ∼27 nm. A trivial solid solubility of C in Cu was achieved by mechanical alloying.
Room temperature tensile property and fracture behavior of CuNi10Fe1Mn alloy rods produced by OCC process
Authors: Gan C L , Liu X F , Xie J X
Published: June 2014

The Ohno continuous casting process was used to produce CuNi10Fe1Mn alloy rods with unidirectional morphologies. The results of tensile tests showed that the present alloy exhibited an elongation of 51%, which cannot be obtained by conventional processes such as the sand casting or continuous casting. Scanning electron microscopy of the fracture surfaces indicated that fracture was of the ductile dimple type. The content of sulphur was found to have a significant influence on the ductility of the present alloy at room temperature.
PTEN microdeletions in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia are caused by illegitimate RAG-mediated recombination events
Authors: Mendes Rui D. , Sarmento Leonor M. , Canté-Barrett Kirsten , Zuurbier Linda , Buijs-Gladdines Jessica G. C. A. M. , Póvoa Vanda , Smits Willem K. , Abecasis Miguel , Yunes J. Andres , Sonneveld Edwin , Horstmann Martin A. , Pieters Rob , Barata João T. , Meijerink Jules P. P.
Published: June 2014

Key Points

Microdeletions represent an additional inactivation mechanism for PTEN in human T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. PTEN microdeletions are RAG-mediated aberrations.
Estimates for the extremal sections of complex "Equation missing" -balls
Authors: Lai Duc Nam , Huang Qingzhong , He Binwu
Published: June 2014

The problem of maximal hyperplane section of

B
p

(

C
n

)

with

p
≥
1

is considered, which is the complex version of central hyperplane section problem of

B
p

(

R
n

)

. The relation between the complex slicing problem and the complex isotropic constant of a body is established, an upper bound estimate for the volume of complex central hyperplane sections of normalized complex

ℓ
p

(

C
n

)

-balls that does not depend on n and p is shown, which extends results of Oleszkiewicz and Pełczyński, Koldobsky and Zymonopoulou, and Meyer and Pajor.

MSC:52A21, 46B07.
Case–control study of risk factors for infectious mastitis in Spanish breastfeeding women
Authors: Mediano Pilar , Fernández Leónides , Rodríguez Juan M , Marín María
Published: June 2014

Background

The purpose of this study was to identify potential predisposing factors associated with human infectious mastitis.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study among breastfeeding women, with 368 cases (women with mastitis) and 148 controls. Data were collected by a questionnaire designed to obtain retrospective information about several factors related to medical history of mother and infant, different aspects of pregnancy, delivery and postpartum, and breastfeeding practices that could be involved in mastitis. Bivariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression model were used to examine the relationship between mastitis and these factors.

Results

The variables significantly- and independently-associated with mastitis were cracked nipples (P < 0.0001), oral antibiotics during breastfeeding (P < 0.0001), breast pumps (P < 0.0001), topical antifungal medication during breastfeeding (P = 0.0009), mastitis in previous lactations (P = 0.0014), breast milk coming in later than 24 h postpartum (P = 0.0016), history of mastitis in the family (P = 0.0028), mother-infant separation longer than 24 h (P = 0.0027), cream on nipples (P = 0.0228) and throat infection (P = 0.0224).

Conclusions

Valuable factors related to an increased risk of infectious mastitis have been identified. This knowledge will allow practitioners to provide appropriate management advice about modifiable risk factors, such as the use of pumps or inappropriate medication. They also could identify before delivery those women at an increased risk of developing mastitis, such as those having a familial history of mastitis, and thus develop strategies to prevent this condition.
Attributable fraction of tobacco smoking on cancer using population-based nationwide cancer incidence and mortality data in Korea
Authors: Park Sohee , Jee Sun Ha , Shin Hai-Rim , Park Eun Hye , Shin Aesun , Jung Kyu-Won , Hwang Seung-Sik , Cha Eun Shil , Yun Young Ho , Park Sue Kyung , Boniol Mathieu , Boffetta Paolo
Published: June 2014

Background

Smoking is by far the most important cause of cancer that can be modified at the individual level. Cancer incidence and mortality rates in Korea are the highest among all Asian countries, and smoking prevalence in Korean men is one of the highest in developed countries. The purpose of the current study was to perform a systematic review and provide an evidence-based assessment of the burden of tobacco smoking-related cancers in the Korean population.

Methods

Sex- and cancer-specific population-attributable fractions (PAF) were estimated using the prevalence of ever-smoking and second-hand smoking in 1989 among Korean adults, respectively, and the relative risks were estimated from the meta-analysis of studies performed in the Korean population for ever-smoking and in the Asian population for passive smoking. National cancer incidence data from the Korea Central Cancer Registry and national cancer mortality data from Statistics Korea for the year 2009 were used to estimate the cancer cases and deaths attributable to tobacco smoking.

Results

Tobacco smoking was responsible for 20,239 (20.9%) cancer incident cases and 14,377 (32.9%) cancer deaths among adult men and 1,930 (2.1%) cancer incident cases and 1,351 (5.2%) cancer deaths among adult women in 2009 in Korea. In men, 71% of lung cancer deaths, 55%–72% of upper aerodigestive tract (oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus and larynx) cancer deaths, 23% of liver, 32% of stomach, 27% of pancreas, 7% of kidney and 45% of bladder cancer deaths were attributable to tobacco smoking. In women the proportion of ever-smoking-attributable lung cancer was 8.1%, while that attributable to second-hand smoking among non-smoking women was 20.5%.

Conclusions

Approximately one in three cancer deaths would be potentially preventable through appropriate control of tobacco smoking in Korean men at the population level and individual level. For Korean women, more lung cancer cases and deaths were attributable to second-hand than ever-smoking. Effective control programs against tobacco smoking should be further developed and implemented in Korea to reduce the smoking-related cancer burden.
Evaluation of simplified acute physiology score 3 performance: a systematic review of external validation studies
Authors: Nassar Antonio Paulo , Malbouisson LuizMarcelo Sa , Moreno Rui
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Simplified Acute Physiology Score 3 (SAPS 3) was the first critical care prognostic model developed from worldwide data. We aimed to systematically review studies that assessed the prognostic performance of SAPS 3 general and customized models for predicting hospital mortality in adult patients admitted to the ICU.

Methods

Medline, Lilacs, Scielo and Google Scholar were searched to identify studies which assessed calibration and discrimination of general and customized SAPS 3 equations. Additionally, we decided to evaluate the correlation between trial size (number of included patients) and the Hosmer-Lemeshow (H-L) statistics value of the SAPS 3 models.

Results

A total of 28 studies were included. Of these, 11 studies (42.8%) did not find statistically significant mis-calibration for the SAPS 3 general equation. There was a positive correlation between number of included patients and higher H-L statistics, that is, a statistically significant mis-calibration of the model (r = 0.747, P <0.001). Customized equations for major geographic regions did not have statistically significant departures from perfect calibration in 9 of 19 studies. Five studies (17.9%) developed a regional customization and in all of them this new model was not statistically different from a perfect calibration for their populations. Discrimination was at least very good in 24 studies (85.7%).

Conclusions

Statistically significant departure from perfect calibration for the SAPS 3 general equation was common in validation studies and was correlated with larger studies, as should be expected, since H-L statistics (both C and H) are strongly dependent on sample size This finding was also present when major geographic customized equations were evaluated. Local customizations, on the other hand, improved SAPS 3 calibration. Discrimination was almost always very good or excellent, which gives excellent perspectives for local customization when a precise local estimate is needed.
Estrogen-Negative Feedback and Estrous Cyclicity Are Critically Dependent Upon Estrogen Receptor-α Expression in the Arcuate Nucleus of Adult Female Mice
Authors: Yeo Shel-Hwa , Herbison Allan E.
Published: June 2014

The location and characteristics of cells within the brain that suppress GnRH neuron activity to contribute to the estrogen-negative feedback mechanism are poorly understood. Using adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated Cre-LoxP recombination in estrogen receptor-α (ERα) floxed mice (ERαflox/flox), we aimed to examine the role of ERα-expressing neurons located in the arcuate nucleus (ARN) in the estrogen-negative feedback mechanism. Bilateral injection of AAV-Cre into the ARN of ERαflox/flox mice (n = 14) resulted in the time-dependent ablation of up to 99% of ERα-immunoreactive cell numbers throughout the rostrocaudal length of the ARN. These mice were all acyclic by 5 weeks after AAV-Cre injections with most mice in constant estrous. Control wild-type mice injected with AAV-Cre (n = 13) were normal. Body weight was not altered in ERαflox/flox mice. After ovariectomy, a significant increment in LH secretion was observed in all genotypes, although its magnitude was reduced in ERαflox/flox mice. Acute and chronic estrogen-negative feedback were assessed by administering 17β-estradiol to mice as a bolus (LH measured 3 h later) or SILASTIC brand capsule implant (LH measured 5 d later). This demonstrated that chronic estrogen feedback was absent in ERαflox/flox mice, whereas the acute feedback was normal. These results reveal a critical role for ERα-expressing cells within the ARN in both estrous cyclicity and the chronic estrogen negative feedback mechanism in female mice. This suggests that ARN cells provide a key indirect, transsynpatic route through which estradiol suppresses the activity of GnRH neurons.
Vegfd can compensate for loss of Vegfc in zebrafish facial lymphatic sprouting
Authors: Astin Jonathan W. , Haggerty Michael J. L. , Okuda Kazuhide S. , Le Guen Ludovic , Misa June P. , Tromp Alisha , Hogan Benjamin M. , Crosier Kathryn E. , Crosier Philip S.
Published: June 2014

Lymphangiogenesis is a dynamic process that involves the sprouting of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) from veins to form lymphatic vessels. Vegfr3 signalling, through its ligand Vegfc and the extracellular protein Ccbe1, is essential for the sprouting of LECs to form the trunk lymphatic network. In this study we determined whether Vegfr3, Vegfc and Ccbe1 are also required for development of the facial and intestinal lymphatic networks in the zebrafish embryo. Whereas Vegfr3 and Ccbe1 are required for the development of all lymphatic vessels, Vegfc is dispensable for facial lymphatic sprouting but not for the complete development of the facial lymphatic network. We show that zebrafish vegfd is expressed in the head, genetically interacts with ccbe1 and can rescue the lymphatic defects observed following the loss of vegfc. Finally, whereas knockdown of vegfd has no phenotype, double knockdown of both vegfc and vegfd is required to prevent facial lymphatic sprouting, suggesting that Vegfc is not essential for all lymphatic sprouting and that Vegfd can compensate for loss of Vegfc during lymphatic development in the zebrafish head.
Without children is required for Stat-mediatedzfh1transcription and for germline stem cell differentiation
Authors: Maimon Iris , Popliker Malka , Gilboa Lilach
Published: June 2014

Tissue homeostasis is maintained by balancing stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. How surrounding cells support this process has not been entirely resolved. Here we show that the chromatin and telomere-binding factor Without children (Woc) is required for maintaining the association of escort cells (ECs) with germ cells in adult ovaries. This tight association is essential for germline stem cell (GSC) differentiation into cysts. Woc is also required in larval ovaries for the association of intermingled cells (ICs) with primordial germ cells. Reduction in the levels of two other proteins, Stat92E and its target Zfh1, produce phenotypes similar to woc in both larval and adult ovaries, suggesting a molecular connection between these three proteins. Antibody staining and RT-qPCR demonstrate that Zfh1 levels are increased in somatic cells that contact germ cells, and that Woc is required for a Stat92E-mediated upregulation of zfh1 transcription. Our results further demonstrate that overexpression of Zfh1 in ECs can rescue GSC differentiation in woc-deficient ovaries. Thus, Zfh1 is a major Woc target in ECs. Stat signalling in niche cells has been previously shown to maintain GSCs non-autonomously. We now show that Stat92E also promotes GSC differentiation. Our results highlight the Woc-Stat-Zfh1 module as promoting somatic encapsulation of germ cells throughout their development. Each somatic cell type can then provide the germline with the support it requires at that particular stage. Stat is thus a permissive factor, which explains its apparently opposite roles in GSC maintenance and differentiation.
Multiplexed modulation of behavioral choice
Authors: Palmer Chris R. , Barnett Megan N. , Copado Saul , Gardezy Fred , Kristan, Jnr William B.
Published: June 2014

Stimuli in the environment, as well as internal states, influence behavioral choice. Of course, animals are often exposed to multiple external and internal factors simultaneously, which makes the ultimate determinants of behavior quite complex. We observed the behavioral responses of European leeches, Hirudo verbana, as we varied one external factor (surrounding water depth) with either another external factor (location of tactile stimulation along the body) or an internal factor (body distention following feeding). Stimulus location proved to be the primary indicator of behavioral response. In general, anterior stimulation produced shortening behavior, midbody stimulation produced local bending, and posterior stimulation usually produced either swimming or crawling but sometimes a hybrid of the two. By producing a systematically measured map of behavioral responses to body stimulation, we found wide areas of overlap between behaviors. When we varied the surrounding water depth this map changed significantly, and a new feature - rotation of the body along its long axis prior to swimming - appeared. We found additional interactions between water depth and time since last feeding. A large blood meal initially made the animals crawl more and swim less, an effect that was attenuated as water depth increased. The behavioral map returned to its pre-feeding form after about 3 weeks as the leeches digested their blood meal. In summary, we found multiplexed impacts on behavioral choice, with the map of responses to tactile stimulation modified by water depth, which itself modulated the impact that feeding had on the decision to swim or crawl.
Metabolic incentives for dishonest signals of strength in crustaceans
Authors: Bywater Candice , White Craig R. , Wilson Robbie
Published: June 2014

To reduce the potential costs of combat, animals may rely upon signals to resolve territorial disputes. Signals also provide a means for individuals to appear better than they actually are, deceiving opponents and gaining access to resources that would otherwise be unattainable. However, other than resource gains, incentives for dishonest signalling remain unexplored. In this study, we tested the idea that unreliable signallers pay lower metabolic costs for their signals, and that energetic savings could represent an incentive for cheating. We focused on two-toned fiddler crabs (Uca vomeris), a species that frequently uses their enlarged claws as signals of dominance to opponents. Previously, we found that regenerated Uca vomeris claws are often large but weak (i.e. unreliable). Here, we found that the original claws of male Uca vomeris consumed 43% more oxygen than weaker, regenerated claws suggesting that muscle quantity drives variation in metabolic costs. Therefore, it seems that metabolic savings could provide a powerful incentive for dishonesty within fiddler crabs.
Blood flow for bone remodelling correlates with locomotion in living and extinct birds
Authors: Allan Georgina H. , Cassey Phillip , Snelling Edward P. , Maloney Shane K. , Seymour Roger S.
Published: June 2014

Nutrient arteries enter limb bones through discrete foramina on the shafts. They are required for bone remodelling in response to mechanical loading and dynamic forces imposed by locomotion. The cross-sectional area of the nutrient foramen of the femur represents an index of blood flow rate to the shaft and thus provides insight into the animal’s level of activity. Morphometric data on femoral length, mass and foramen size from 100 extant bird species and eight extinct moa species were analysed allometrically and phylogenetically. The nutrient foramen blood flow index (Qi) and femur mass (Mf) increase with body mass (Mb). At 1 kg body mass, cursorial species have approximately 2.1 times higher Qi and 1.9 times heavier Mf than volant species. The scaling of Qi on Mf is independent of the primary mode of locomotion, but the ratio Qi/Mf decreases significantly in larger birds, although absolute Qi increases. The overall avian equation for Qi on Mb is not significantly different from previous data from mammals, but when differences in blood pressure are accounted for, estimated blood flow to the femur is about 1.9 times higher in cursorial birds than in mammals, possibly in relation to bipedalism and quadrupedalism, respectively. Femoral bone blood flow in both endothermic groups is estimated to be 50-100 times higher than in ectothermic reptiles.
Cold-induced depolarization of insect muscle: Differing roles of extracellular K+ during acute and chronic chilling
Authors: MacMillan Heath Andrew , Findsen Anders , Pedersen Thomas Holm , Overgaard Johannes
Published: June 2014

Insects enter chill coma, a reversible state of paralysis, at temperatures below their critical thermal minimum (CTmin), and the time required for an insect to recover after a cold exposure is termed chill coma recovery time (CCRT). The CTmin and CCRT are both important metrics of insect cold tolerance that are used interchangeably although chill coma recovery is not necessarily permitted by a direct reversal of the mechanism causing chill coma onset. Onset and recovery of coma have been attributed to loss of neuromuscular function due to depolarization of muscle fibre membrane potential (Vm). Here we test the hypothesis that muscle depolarization at chill coma onset and repolarization during chill coma recovery are caused by changes in extracellular [K+] and/or directly by low temperature. Using Locusta migratoria we measured in vivo muscle resting potentials of the extensor tibialis during cooling, following prolonged exposure to -2°C and during chill coma recovery, and related changes in Vm to transmembrane [K+] balance and temperature. Although Vm was rapidly depolarized by cooling, hemolymph [K+] did not rise until locusts had spent considerable time in the cold. Nonetheless, a rise in hemolymph [K+] during prolonged cold exposure further depressed muscle resting potential and slowed recovery from chill coma upon rewarming. Muscle resting potentials had a bimodal distribution, and with elevation of extracellular [K+] (but not temperature) muscle resting potentials become unimodal. Thus, a disruption of extracellular [K+] does depolarize muscle resting potential and slow CCRT, but it is unrelated to the insect CTmin, which is caused by an as-yet-unknown effect of temperature on muscle function.
Communicants’ Personal World in the Verbal Texture of the Interpreted Discourse
Authors: Бойко  , Boyko Galina
Published: June 2014

The paper is devoted to the linguistic representation of the communicants’

individual inner world. German narrative discourse is viewed as the center

of different evaluative cognitive worlds, which create a poliphony of points

of view and evaluative attitudes. The author gives examples of verbal reflection

of the axiological orientations change predetermined by sociocultural

causes.
Communicative Competence as a Metalanguage for Revealing Hard and Soft Skills in Cross-Cultural Communication
Authors: Гаспарян  , Gasparyan E.
Published: June 2014

The article analyzes one of the key notions of lingsuitics adn methodology — that of communication competence, interpreting each of its components. Then the author evaluates the importance of the term in teaching a foreign language for professional communication in cross-cultural context and provides the rationale for considering cultural differences revealed in professional communication. Accounting for this need, the author then makes a list of professional competences which can be applied in communication through a formed linguistic competence. The article goes on to analyze the existing Russian documentation on the classification of hard and soft skills. Revealing the gaps in the existing classification the author offers her classification which addresses the current issues in developing communication competence for professional communication in multi-cultural context.