bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small-angle neutron scattering as a probe to decide the maximum limit of chemical waste immobilization in a cement matrix
Authors: Das A. , Mazumder S. , Sen D. , Yalmali V. , Shah J. G. , Ghosh A. , Sahu A. K. , Wattal P. K.
Published: January 2014

Immobilization of low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste in a cement matrix is an important process in any nuclear industry. In this regard, setting the maximum limit of waste loading in cement is a crucial issue and one that significantly depends on the mesoscopic density fluctuations of the composite cement matrix. Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), a technique that maps coherent neutron scattering length density fluctuation, is efficient in monitoring the degree of homogeneity of a condensed matrix. It is prudent, then, to use SANS to probe the degree of homogenization in a composite cement matrix upon immobilization of low-level non-heat-generating radioactive waste. In the present work, the effects of loading of simulated cerium waste on the mesoscopic structure of hydrated cement have been investigated by SANS complemented by scanning electron microscopy and mercury intrusion porosimetry. Utilizing the multiple-scattering phenomenon, the scattering mean free path has been estimated, which has a direct relevance to the degree of homogenization of the waste-loaded cement matrix as far as the neutron scattering length density is concerned. It has been revealed that the structure of hydrated cement becomes less consolidated because the mass fractal dimension decreases with an increase in waste loading. Scattering data unveil the existence of pores at two widely separated length scales. The size of the larger pores increases with loading beyond a certain concentration. However, no significant modification has been observed for the pores on the smaller length scale.
Conformational characterization of a protein complex involving intrinsically disordered protein by small-angle neutron scattering using the inverse contrast matching method: a case study of interaction between α-synuclein and PbaB tetramer as a model chaperone
Authors: Sugiyama Masaaki , Yagi Hirokazu , Yamaguchi Takumi , Kumoi Kentaro , Hirai Mitsuhiro , Oba Yojiro , Sato Nobuhiro , Porcar Lionel , Martel Anne , Kato Koichi
Published: January 2014

Cumulative genomics and proteomics data have now highlighted the presence of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), which are devoid of stable secondary or tertiary structures under physiological conditions. While the flexible nature of IDPs precludes their study by crystallographic methods, IDP interactions with their cognate proteins, during which the IDPs often form their secondary structures, have been characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. In view of this, a complementary small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) technique has been developed for probing IDP conformations in larger protein complexes. As a model interaction system, α-synuclein (αSN) bound to an archaeal homotetrameric chaperone, PbaB, was analyzed. To selectively observe the SANS profile of αSN in the complex, the bacterially produced PbaB was fractionally (75%) deuterated using D2O and deuterated glucose for contrast matching to approximately 100% D2O solvent. By employing 75%-deuterated PbaB, the conformational changes of αSN upon capture by this tetrameric chaperone were successfully observed with minimal background scattering. Together with the present NMR data, the SANS data reveal that the PbaB tetramer grasps the N-terminal segments of αSN, disrupting the residual ordered structure in this region, while leaving the remaining regions flexible within a slightly reduced conformational space.
Minoxidil 2% lotion for eyebrow enhancement: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, spilt‐face comparative study
Authors: Lee Saridpong , Tanglertsampan Chuchai , Tanchotikul Mingkwan , Worapunpong Nigun
Published: January 2014

Topical minoxidil has been successfully used to treat androgenetic alopecia. It can also be applied to enhance eyebrows. However, there is no study comparing minoxidil lotion with placebo for eyebrow enhancement. In this trial, we determined the efficacy and safety of minoxidil 2% lotion for eyebrow enhancement compared with placebo. Forty patients were randomized for minoxidil on the eyebrow on one side of the face and placebo on the other. Efficacy was evaluated by global photographic assessment, eyebrow diameter, eyebrow count and subject's satisfaction. Side‐effects were also evaluated. Thirty‐nine patients (97.5%) completed the study. After 16 weeks, the minoxidil group achieved significantly better results in all measured outcomes compared to the placebo group. Side‐effects were minor and did not preclude patients from continuing the study. Our study suggests that minoxidil 2% lotion is a safe and effective treatment for eyebrow hypotrichosis.
Drug‐induced hypersensitivity syndrome due to minocycline complicated by severe myocarditis
Authors: Kanno Kyoko , Sakai Hiroyuki , Yamada Yutaka , Iizuka Hajime
Published: January 2014

A 60‐year‐old woman presented with a 13‐day history of a generalized erythematous rash accompanied by fever, periorbital edema and axillary lymphadenopathy. Prior to the appearance of the rash, the patient had been treated with intermittent courses of oral minocycline for cystitis. The patient was diagnosed with drug‐induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS) due to minocycline. During the admission, infectious endocarditis was suspected and the patient was treated with i.v. gammaglobulin (0.4 g/kg per day). The following day, the patient suffered from systemic deterioration and symptomatic low blood pressure that prompted repeat echocardiography which revealed an ejection fraction of 10%. DIHS‐associated myocarditis was suspected and management with circulation assistance devices and steroid pulse therapy were started, resulting in satisfactory resolution. A rise in titer of human herpesvirus‐6, cytomegalovirus and Herpes simplex virus‐1 antibodies was detected. Although minocycline‐induced myocarditis is rare, this severe drug reaction should be considered with DIHS.
Antimycotics suppress the Malassezia extract‐induced production of CXC chemokine ligand 10 in human keratinocytes
Authors: Hau Carren S. , Kanda Naoko , Makimura Koichi , Watanabe Shinichi
Published: January 2014

Malassezia, a lipophilic yeast, exacerbates atopic dermatitis. Malassezia products can penetrate the disintegrated stratum corneum and encounter subcorneal keratinocytes in the skin of atopic dermatitis patients. Type 1 helper T (Th1) cells infiltrate chronic lesions with atopic dermatitis, and antimycotic agents improve its symptoms. We aimed to identify Malassezia‐induced chemokines in keratinocytes and examine whether antimycotics suppressed this induction. Normal human keratinocytes were incubated with a Malassezia restricta extract and antimycotics. Chemokine expression was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays and real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)1 activity was examined by luciferase assays. The tyrosine‐phosphorylation of STAT1 was analyzed by western blotting. The M. restricta extract increased the mRNA and protein expression of Th1‐attracting CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)10 and STAT1 activity and phosphorylation in keratinocytes, which was suppressed by a Janus kinase inhibitor. The antimycotics itraconazole, ketoconazole, luliconazole, terbinafine, butenafine and amorolfine suppressed M. restricta extract‐induced CXCL10 mRNA and protein expression and STAT1 activity and phosphorylation. These effects were similarly induced by 15‐deoxy‐Δ‐12,14‐prostaglandin J2 (15d‐PGJ2), a prostaglandin D2 metabolite. Antimycotics increased the release of 15d‐PGJ2 from keratinocytes. The antimycotic‐induced suppression of CXCL10 production and STAT1 activity was counteracted by a lipocalin‐type prostaglandin D synthase inhibitor. The antimycotics itraconazole, ketoconazole, luliconazole, terbinafine, butenafine and amorolfine may suppress the M. restricta‐induced production of CXCL10 by inhibiting STAT1 through an increase in 15d‐PGJ2 production in keratinocytes. These antimycotics may block the Th1‐mediated inflammation triggered by Malassezia in the chronic phase of atopic dermatitis.
Proliferative fasciitis mimicking a sarcoma in a child: A case report
Authors: Yamaga Kensaku , Shomori Kohei , Yamashita Hideki , Endo Koji , Takeda Chikako , Minamizaki Takeshi , Yoshida Haruhiko , Teshima Ryota , Ito Hisao
Published: January 2014

Proliferative fasciitis (PF) is a benign, discrete proliferation of fibroblasts or myofibroblasts in soft tissue. Proliferative fasciitis mostly occurs in adults and is often confused with a sarcoma because of its rapid growth and peculiar histological features. We report a case of PF mimicking a sarcoma which developed in a 13‐year‐old boy, who noticed a painful tumor, with gradual enlargement, in his right lower leg. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed that the tumor measured 34 mm × 20 mm × 41 mm and was located in the subcutaneous tissue. The tumor was surgically resected. Pathologically, the tumor was composed of a proliferation of atypical spindle cells, admixed with larger ganglion‐like cells. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were positive for vimentin, cytokeratin, smooth muscle actin, HHF‐35 and Fli‐1. The tumor was subsequently diagnosed as a PF, although it was difficult to differentiate from a sarcoma. Five years after surgery, the postoperative course has been uneventful with no recurrence or metastasis.
Testing a silvicultural recommendation: Brazil nut responses 10 years after liana cutting
Authors: Kainer Karen A. , Wadt Lúcia H.O. , Staudhammer Christina L.
Published: January 2014

Lianas or woody vines can be detrimental to the trees that support them. Research on liana cutting for tropical timber management has demonstrated positive yet costly benefits, but liana cutting to enhance commercial outputs of nontimber forest products has not been examined. We implemented a controlled experiment to quantify the effects of cutting lianas on Brazil nut Bertholletia excelsa Bonpl. fecundity.

We conducted our 10‐year experiment in a Brazilian extractive reserve where local harvesters collect fruits from this Amazonian canopy‐emergent species as part of their forest‐based livelihood system. We cut 454 lianas with a total basal area of 2·41 m2 from 78 of 138 host trees ≥50 cm diameter at breast height.

Treated trees were significantly better producers 3 ½ years after liana cutting, and these differences increased dramatically in subsequent years, with consistent proportionally higher production in treated versus untreated individuals.

The number of lianas rooted within 5 m of the host tree significantly explained production levels, suggesting both above‐ and below‐ground liana–host tree competition. Once host crowns were liana‐free, branch regrowth was highly visible, particularly in heavily infested trees, and crown reassessments suggested that liana cutting improved crown form. Additionally, liana cutting may induce some nonproducing trees to become producers and may circumvent mortality of trees heavily infested with lianas (> 75% crown covered).

Liana removal can be implemented easily when harvesting Brazil nut fruits. Only lianas associated with B. excelsa trees should be cut to conserve liana ecosystem functions.

Synthesis and applications. We quantified effects of liana cutting on Brazil nut host tree fecundity and provided estimates of increased commercial yields. Our long‐term (10‐year) study permits understanding of biological variation and informs related management decisions. Findings suggest that liana cutting reduces above‐ and below‐ground competition with individual trees, ultimately allowing mature host crowns to recover such that 9–10 years after liana cutting, treated trees produced on average three times more fruits than untreated trees. Application of liana cutting to other tropical species would likely boost fruit and seed production, increase host tree fecundity and potentially enhance future recruitment.
The evidence base for couple therapy, family therapy and systemic interventions for adult‐focused problems
Authors: Carr Alan
Published: January 2014

This review updates similar articles published in JFT in 2000 and 2009. It presents evidence from meta‐analyses, systematic literature reviews and controlled trials for the effectiveness of couple and family therapy for adults with various relationship and mental health problems. The evidence supports the effectiveness of systemic interventions, either alone or as part of multi‐modal programmes, for relationship distress, psychosexual problems, intimate partner violence, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, alcohol problems, schizophrenia and adjustment to chronic physical illness.
Reading relations backwards
Authors: Strathern Marilyn
Published: January 2014

It would hazardous for an anthropologist to read back from the present to admonitions from nearly a century ago that the whole world is kin or that all forms of life are related. It would be even more hazardous to read back from the present to three centuries ago. None the less, a contemporary issue in social anthropology makes the risk conceivably worth taking. This is to do with the role that generic terms play in knowledge‐making, and specifically in what we know about kinship. Pondering on the adoption of a generic, ‘relation’, in the acknowledgement of kinspersons inEngland around the time of the scientific revolution, this article points to a precise way in which the generic might have been useful for both kin‐makers and knowledge‐makers. Describing relations without having to specify the entities involved served both. This speculative exercise might be of interest in current contexts where appeals are made to the relational and relationality.
Temporal dimensions of selfhood: theories of person among the Suruí of Rondônia (Brazilian Amazon)
Authors: Yvinec Cédric
Published: January 2014

In reply to the cognitivist criticism that claims that selfhood cannot be studied by ethnographical tools, the author argues that the study of indigenous ‘theories of person’ should focus on the temporal dimensions of selfhood rather than on notions such as ‘body’ or ‘soul’, and should pay attention to the contexts in which such concepts and discourses occur. An ethnographical case study of Native Amazonia, in which the conceptions of persons include numerous souls and bodies, shows that this multiplicity corresponds to several fields of social relationships and several scales of temporality as multiple ways of differing from others and becoming different from oneself.
Peel, De Grey and Irish Policy, 1841–1844
Authors: Read Charles
Published: January 2014

Historians have traditionally framed debates over Irish policy in the early 1840s between London and Dublin Castle in sectarian terms. Robert Peel's ‘liberal‐minded’ attitudes towards Catholics have been portrayed as conflicting with his lord lieutenant's, which were supposedly anti‐Catholic, sectarian and ‘Orange’. Using the Earl de Grey's political papers in addition to Peel's for the first time in historical analysis, this article shows this is a misinterpretation which has concealed the actual nature of the policy debates between Peel and De Grey during the ‘Repeal Year’ period. Conflict arose, not along sectarian or ideological lines, but over the cause of the sudden rise in popular support for the Repeal Association and the nature of public policy which would best counteract this. De Grey thought the ‘Repeal Year’ crisis was the result of economic grievances, while Peel considered it a religious issue. In the resulting disagreement over the most effective policy, De Grey favoured policies based upon economic conciliation, and Peel prioritized religious concessions towards Irish Catholics. This anticipated debates in Irish policy much later in the nineteenth century between constructive unionists, who advocated economic conciliation to combat the rise of Irish nationalism, and those who supported religious and constitutional reforms.
Using Computer‐Extracted Data from Electronic Health Records to Measure the Quality of Adolescent Well‐Care
Authors: Gardner William , Morton Suzanne , Byron Sepheen C. , Tinoco Aldo , Canan Benjamin D. , Leonhart Karen , Kong Vivian , Scholle Sarah Hudson
Published: January 2014

Objective

To determine whether quality measures based on computer‐extracted EHR data can reproduce findings based on data manually extracted by reviewers.

Data Sources

We studied 12 measures of care indicated for adolescent well‐care visits for 597 patients in three pediatric health systems.

Study Design

Observational study.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Manual reviewers collected quality data from the EHR. Site personnel programmed their EHR systems to extract the same data from structured fields in the EHR according to national health IT standards.

Principal Findings

Overall performance measured via computer‐extracted data was 21.9 percent, compared with 53.2 percent for manual data. Agreement measures were high for immunizations. Otherwise, agreement between computer extraction and manual review was modest (Kappa = 0.36) because computer‐extracted data frequently missed care events (sensitivity = 39.5 percent). Measure validity varied by health care domain and setting. A limitation of our findings is that we studied only three domains and three sites.

Conclusions

The accuracy of computer‐extracted EHR quality reporting depends on the use of structured data fields, with the highest agreement found for measures and in the setting that had the greatest concentration of structured fields. We need to improve documentation of care, data extraction, and adaptation of EHR systems to practice workflow.
Comparing fetal scalp lactate and umbilical cord arterial blood gas values
Authors: Bowler Thea , Beckmann Michael
Published: January 2014

Background

Fetal scalp lactate has been shown to be as effective as scalp pH in predicting fetal outcomes. However, there is limited clinical evidence to demonstrate a strong correlation with fetal acidaemia at birth.

Aims

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of fetal scalp lactate and umbilical cord arterial blood gas values sampling, as it is used in clinical practice.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed on 661 term (≥37 weeks) births where a fetal scalp lactate sample was taken during labour. Cases were excluded where either the lactate was taken greater than 1 h prior to delivery, incomplete cord gas analyses were available, or a sentinel hypoxic event occurred prior to delivery. The final data set included 229 microvolume scalp lactate measurements which were compared with neonatal paired cord blood gas values taken at delivery.

Results

A fetal scalp lactate measurement of ≥4.8 mmol/L had a positive predictive value (PPV) of 1% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 100% in predicting umbilical artery pH ≤7.00, and a PPV of 5% and a NPV of 98% in predicting umbilical artery pH ≤7.10. The sensitivity and specificity for these values were 100%, 23% and 90%, 23%, respectively.

Conclusions

Fetal scalp lactate microsampling has a strong negative predictive value for fetal acidaemia at birth.
Partisanship in a Social Setting
Authors: Klar Samara
Published: January 2014

No factor appears more powerful in explaining how individuals evaluate political information and form political preferences than partisanship. Yet, virtually all work on the effects of partisanship on preference formation neglects the crucial role of social settings. In this study, I examine how social settings can fundamentally change the influence of partisanship on preferences. I demonstrate that, in fact, social settings exert an independent influence over preference formation—one that is even larger than the influence of partisan ambivalence. The central implication of these findings is that, going forward, we cannot fully explore how citizens apply their partisanship in evaluating political information without also accounting for the social settings in which individuals find themselves.
Randomised clinical trial: relief of upper gastrointestinal symptoms by an acid pocket‐targeting alginate–antacid (Gaviscon Double Action) – a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, pilot study in gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Thomas E. , Wade A. , Crawford G. , Jenner B. , Levinson N. , Wilkinson J.
Published: January 2014

Background

The alginate–antacid, Gaviscon Double Action (Gaviscon DA; Reckitt Benckiser, Slough, UK) suppresses reflux after meals by creating a gel‐like barrier that caps and displaces the acid pocket distal to the oesophago‐gastric junction. The effect of Gaviscon DA on reflux and dyspepsia symptoms has not yet been demonstrated with a modern trial design.

Aim

A pilot study to assess the efficacy and safety of Gaviscon DA compared with matched placebo for decreasing upper gastrointestinal symptoms in symptomatic gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients.

Methods

A randomised, double‐blind, parallel group study was performed in 110 patients with symptoms of GERD. Patients received Gaviscon DA or placebo tablets for 7 consecutive days. The primary endpoint compared the change in overall Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ) symptom score (combined heartburn/regurgitation/dyspepsia). Secondary endpoints assessed individual dimensions, GERD dimension (heartburn and regurgitation) and overall treatment evaluation (OTE).

Results

There was a greater decrease in overall RDQ symptom score in the Gaviscon DA group compared with the placebo group (Least Squares Mean difference −0.55; P = 0.0033), and for each of the dimensions independently. Patients in the Gaviscon DA group evaluated their overall treatment response higher than patients in the placebo group [mean (standard deviation) OTE 4.1 (2.44) vs. 1.9 (3.34); P = 0.0005]. No differences in the incidence of adverse events were observed between treatment groups.

Conclusions

Gaviscon DA decreases reflux and dyspeptic symptoms in GERD patients compared with matched placebo and has a favourable benefit‐risk balance. Larger scale clinical investigations of medications targeting the acid pocket are warranted. (EudraCT, 2012‐002188‐84)
Adenoviral infection in a collection of juvenile inland bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps)
Authors: Doneley RJT , Buckle KN , Hulse L
Published: January 2014

Case report

Juvenile inland bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) from a breeding collection in south‐east Queensland were presented at age 6–10 weeks with neurological signs, poor growth and occasional deaths. Histopathological examination revealed that six of eight lizards had multifocal non‐suppurative hepatitis associated with 5–10 μm diameter, smudgy, basophilic, hyaline intranuclear inclusion bodies that marginated the nuclear chromatin. These histological lesions were considered consistent with adenoviral hepatitis. Infection with adenovirus was confirmed positive in one of the eight dragons by PCR for adenoviral DNA.

DNA was extracted from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded pooled tissues of the juvenile inland bearded dragons and tested using a nested‐PCR protocol with primers specific for identification of adenovirus. Sequencing of the one PCR‐positive dragon showed 95% nucleotide sequence alignment with agamid atadenovirus 1. Further investigation involved testing the breeding population, including the parents of the affected juveniles. Blood and cloacal samples were collected from the adult population, DNA was extracted and tested by PCR for adenovirus. There was a high percentage of positive results from the samples collected from the breeding population.

Conclusion

This is the first reported group outbreak of adenoviral disease in bearded dragons in Australia.
Prevalence of bacteriuria in dogs without clinical signs of urinary tract infection presenting for elective surgical procedures
Authors: McGhie JA , Stayt J , Hosgood GL
Published: January 2014

Objectives

To determine the frequency of bacteriuria in dogs presenting for elective surgery, to compare the frequency of bacteriuria in dogs presenting for orthopaedic (non‐neurological) procedures to that of dogs presenting for soft tissue procedures and to measure the agreement of microscopic visualisation of bacteria in urine sediment with the occurrence of bacterial growth on culture.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of 140 client‐owned dogs. Urine was collected via prepubic cystocentesis prior to or immediately after induction of anaesthesia. Urine was submitted for quantitative bacteriological culture and urinalysis. The dogs' age, sex, weight and breed were recorded, as well as the surgical procedure performed.

Results

In total, 80 orthopaedic and 60 soft tissue surgical cases were included in the study; 3 dogs (2.1%) returned bacterial growth on culture (positive urine culture) and 19 (13.6%) recorded urine sediment with pyuria and/or bacteriuria on urinalysis (positive urinalysis). All dogs with positive urine culture were female and two of them underwent orthopaedic procedures. Each bitch had growth ofEscherichia coli>105 CFU/mL. The agreement between positive urinalysis and positive urine culture was poor (κ = 0.15).

Conclusions

The prevalence of bacteriuria in dogs without clinical signs of urinary tract infection in this population was low (2.1%). An at‐risk population could not be identified because of the small number of positive outcomes. A positive urinalysis showed poor agreement with urine culture results and therefore the decision to treat without performing a urine culture is not advised.
An efficient approach for glomerular filtration rate assessment in older adults
Authors: Martus Peter , Ebert Natalie , van der Giet Markus , Jakob Olga , Schaeffner Elke S.
Published: January 2014

Aims

Assessment of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is crucial because the GFR value defines the stage of chronic kidney disease and determines the adjustment of drug dosage. The aim was to investigate a new method for the accurate determination of GFR in older adults based on the combination of an exogenous filtration marker, iohexol, and an endogenous marker, serum creatinine or cystatin C.

Methods

We combined variables for the estimation of GFR with a reduced set of measurements of the marker iohexol. In a population‐based sample of 570 subjects (≥70 years old) from the Berlin Initiative Study (BIS), we investigated the following: (i) the BIS1 and BIS2 equations based on age, gender and serum creatinine with or without serum cystatin C; (ii) equations based on one or two iohexol measurements; and (iii) equations based on the combination of variables from BIS1 or BIS2 with iohexol measurements. The reference standard was based on eight iohexol measurements. The cut‐off value of 60 ml min−1 (1.73 m)−2 was chosen to assess accuracy. Equations were constructed using a learning sample (n = 285) and an independent validation sample (n = 285).

Results

Misclassification rates were 17.2% (BIS1), 11.6% (BIS2), 14.7% [iohexol measurement at 240 min (iohexol240)], 7.0% (iohexol240 combined with variables included in BIS1) and 6.7% (iohexol240 combined with variables included in BIS2). Misclassification rates did not decrease significantly after inclusion of two or three iohexol measurements.

Conclusions

Combined strategies for the determination of GFR lead to a relevant increase of diagnostic validity.
The role of cognitive abilities in children's inferences about social atypicality and peer exclusion and inclusion in intergroup contexts
Authors: Abrams Dominic , Rutland Adam , Palmer Sally B. , Pelletier Joseph , Ferrell Jennifer , Lee Samantha
Published: January 2014

Children aged 6–7 years judged a loyal and a partially disloyal member of a school in terms of how typical they are within the school group and their likely acceptance by peers from the same school and a different school. Second‐order mental‐state understanding (SOMSU) predicted whether children thought atypical members would be included differently in the two groups. Counterfactual reasoning ability, multiple classification ability, and working memory ability did not predict children's judgements of group members. Moreover, as predicted by the developmental subjective group dynamics model, only children with higher levels of SOMSU and who discerned differences in the typicality of normative and deviant ingroup members inferred that peers would differently include atypical individuals from the same and different groups.
Open‐mindedness can decrease persuasion amongst adolescents: The role of self‐affirmation
Authors: Good Anna , Harris Peter R. , Jessop Donna , Abraham Charles
Published: January 2014

Objectives

Self‐affirmation (e.g., by reflecting on important personal values) has been found to promote more open‐minded appraisal of threatening health messages in at‐risk adults. However, it is unclear how self‐affirmation affects adolescents and whether it has differential effects on the impact of these messages amongst those at relatively lower and higher risk. The current study explored moderation by risk.

Design

Participants were randomly assigned to either a self‐affirmation or a control condition before receiving a health message concerning physical activity.

Methods

Older adolescents (N = 125) completed a self‐affirmation or control writing task before reading about the health consequences of not meeting recommendations to be physically active for at least 60 min daily. Most of the sample did not achieve these levels of activity (98%, N = 123). Consequently, the message informed these participants that – unless they changed their behaviour – they would be at higher risk of heart disease. Participants completed measures of responses to the message and behaviour‐specific cognitions (e.g., self‐efficacy) for meeting the recommendations.

Results

For relatively inactive participants, self‐affirmation was associated with increased persuasion. However, for those who were moderately active (but not meeting recommendations), those in the self‐affirmation condition were less persuaded by the message.

Conclusions

Whilst self‐affirmation can increase message acceptance, there are circumstances when the open‐mindedness it induces may decrease persuasion. The evidence provided in this study suggests that caution may be needed when recommendations are challenging and it could be considered reasonable to be sceptical about the need to change behaviour.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Self‐affirmation can facilitate open‐mindedness and sensitivity to whether health messages suggest high or low risk on the basis of current behaviour.

What does this study add?

Demonstrates that self‐affirmation effects can be moderated by the extent of failure to meet recommendations.

Shows that self‐affirmation can be associated with less persuasion when challenging health guidelines are used.
A brief intervention changing oral self‐care, self‐efficacy, and self‐monitoring
Authors: Schwarzer Ralf , Antoniuk Agata , Gholami Maryam
Published: January 2014

Background and aim

The roles of self‐efficacy and self‐monitoring as proximal predictors of dental flossing frequency are studied in the context of an oral health intervention.

Materials and methods

A study among 287 university students, aged 19 to 26 years, compared an intervention group that received a brief self‐regulatory treatment, with a passive and an active control group. Dental flossing, self‐efficacy, and self‐monitoring were assessed at baseline and 3 weeks later.

Results

The intervention led to an increase in dental flossing regardless of experimental condition. However, treatment‐specific gains were documented for self‐efficacy and self‐monitoring. Moreover, changes in the latter two served as mediators in a path model, linking the intervention with subsequent dental flossing and yielding significant indirect effects.

Conclusions

Self‐efficacy and self‐monitoring play a mediating role in facilitating dental flossing. Interventions that aim at an improvement in oral self‐care should consider using these constructs.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

The adoption and maintenance of oral self‐care can be facilitated by a number of social‐cognitive variables.

Interventions that include planning, action control, or self‐efficacy components have been shown to improve dental flossing.

In one recent study on flossing in adolescent girls, planning intervention effects were mediated by self‐efficacy.

What does this study add?

Self‐monitoring is associated with better oral self‐care.

A 10‐min intervention improves self‐efficacy and self‐monitoring.

Self‐efficacy and self‐monitoring operate as mediators between treatment and flossing.
Review of appendiceal onlay flap in the management of complex ureteric strictures in six patients
Authors: Duty Brian D. , Kreshover Jessica E. , Richstone Lee , Kavoussi Louis R.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

To evaluate appendiceal onlay flap ureteroplasty for repairing complex right proximal and mid‐ureteric strictures.

Patients and Methods

Between August 2006 and August 2012 four women and two men (mean age 34.2 years) underwent right laparoscopic appendiceal onlay flap ureteroplasty. The mean stricture length was 2.5 cm. Stricture formation was secondary to impacted ureteric stones in three patients and failed pyeloplasty for congenital pelvi‐ureteric junction obstruction in the remaining three. Each patient had ipsilateral flank pain before surgery.

Results

The mean operating time, estimated blood loss and hospital stay were 244 min, 175 mL and 3.2 days, respectively. No intra‐ or peri‐operative complications were noted. The objective success rate was 100% (all patients had radiographic and/or endoscopic resolution of their ureteric strictures). The subjective success rate was 66%, (two patients developed recurrent discomfort, which upon exploration was found to be attributable to fibrosis away from the appendiceal onlay graft, where the gonadal vessels crossed the ureter). Both patients with recurrent pain underwent laparoscopic ureterolysis and bladder advancement flap proximal to the appendiceal onlay, which markedly improved one patient's pain but the other patient continued to have discomfort, ultimately resulting in a laparoscopic nephroureterectomy.

Conclusions

Appendiceal onlay ureteroplasty is a viable treatment option for patients with complex right proximal and mid‐ureteric strictures, while minimising the potential morbidity of appendiceal and ileal interposition.
Fluctuation in prostate cancer gene 3 (PCA3) score in men undergoing first or repeat prostate biopsies
Authors: De Luca Stefano , Passera Roberto , Cappia Susanna , Bollito Enrico , Randone Donato Franco , Milillo Angela , Papotti Mauro , Porpiglia Francesco
Published: January 2014

Objective

To evaluate the variability in prostate cancer gene 3 (PCA3) score over time in men with elevated serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels who are undergoing first or repeat prostate biopsy.

Patients and Methods

A total of 360 men from two Italian institutions who had undergone at least two PCA3 assessments were selected. Of these, 97.5% were scheduled for first or repeat prostate biopsy because of elevated PSA level and/or positive digital rectal examination (DRE). We compared the PCA3 scores in men with a negative biopsy (normal parenchyma, benign prostatic hyperplasia [BPH], chronic prostatitis, high‐grade prostate intraepithelial neoplasia [HG‐PIN]) with those in men with a positive biopsy. We evaluated PCA3 repeated measures biological variability and its possible association with basic patient characteristics (age, family history of prostate cancer, DRE, prostate volume, BPH, prostatitis and HG‐PIN). Three different thresholds were used to evaluate the possible changes in risk class: the standard threshold (a PCA3 score of 35), a US Food and Drug Administation‐approved PCA3 threshold of 25 and a threshold selected based on our previous research which was a PCA3 score of 50.

Results

The PCA3 scores varied significantly (P < 0.001) when comparing men with a negative biopsy with those with a positive biopsy (median [range] PCA3 score: 25 [2–276] vs 43 [7–331]). There was no significant difference in PCA3 scores in men with chronic prostatitis and HG‐PIN compared with other men with negative biopsies. The median (range) time between the two PCA3 assessments was 16.2 (3–53.7) months. No association was found between PCA3 repeated measures modifications and age, family history of prostate cancer, DRE, BPH, prostatitis, HG‐PIN and use of 5‐α‐reductase inhibitors. The variability of PCA3 scores on repeated measures confirmed the risk class for about 80% of patients; of the remaining 20% of patients, the risk class was upgraded in two thirds and downgraded in one third.

Conclusion

PCA3 score can be considered a stable marker over time in most cases but there is a group of men among whom there is clinically notable risk class change. Further investigation is required to determine the genesis of this phenomenon.
A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model of alvespimycin in mice and extrapolation to rats and humans
Authors: Hu Zhe‐Yi , Lu Jingtao , Zhao Yuansheng
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose

Alvespimycin, a new generation of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitor in clinical trial, is a promising therapeutic agent for cancer. Pharmacokinetic models of alvespimycin would help in the understanding of drug disposition, predicting drug exposure and interpreting dose–response relationship. In the present study we aimed to develop a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of alvespimycin in mice and evaluate the utility of the model for predicting alvespimycin disposition in other species.

Experimental Approach

A literature search was performed to collect pharmacokinetic data for alvespimycin. A PBPK model was initially constructed to demonstrate the disposition of alvespimycin in mice, and then extrapolated to rats and humans by taking into account the interspecies differences in physiological‐ and chemical‐specific parameters.

Key Results

A PBPK model, employing a permeability‐limited model structure and saturable tissue binding, was built in mice. It successfully characterized the time course of the disposition of alvespimycin in mice. After extrapolation to rats, the model simulated the alvespimycin concentration‐time profiles in rat tissues with acceptable accuracies. Likewise, a reasonable match was found between the observed and simulated human plasma pharmacokinetics of alvespimycin.

Conclusions and Implications

The PBPK model described here is beneficial to the understanding and prediction of the effects of alvespimycin in different species. It also provides a good basis for further development, which necessitates additional studies, especially those needed to clarify the in‐depth mechanism of alvespimycin elimination. A refined PBPK model would benefit the understanding of dose–response relationships and optimization of dosing regimens.
Salidroside exerts angiogenic and cytoprotective effects on human bone marrow‐derived endothelial progenitor cells via Akt/mTOR/p70S6K and MAPK signalling pathways
Authors: Tang Yubo , Vater Corina , Jacobi Angela , Liebers Cornelia , Zou Xuenong , Stiehler Maik
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose

With the increase of age, increased susceptibility to apoptosis and senescence may contribute to proliferative and functional impairment of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). The aim of this study was to investigate whether salidroside (SAL) can induce angiogenic differentiation and inhibit oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis in bone marrow‐derived EPCs (BM‐EPCs), and if so, through what mechanism.

Experimental Approach

BM‐EPCs were isolated and treated with different concentrations of SAL for up to 4 days. Cell proliferation, migration and tube formation ability were detected by DNA content quantification, transwell assay and Matrigel‐based angiogenesis assay. Gene and protein expression were assessed by qRT‐PCR and Western blot respectively.

Key Results

Treatment with SAL promoted cellular proliferation and angiogenic differentiation of BM‐EPCs, and increased VEGF and NO secretion, which in turn mediated the enhanced angiogenic differentiation of BM‐EPCs. Furthermore, SAL significantly attenuated hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐induced cell apoptosis, reduced the intracellular level of reactive oxygen species and restored the mitochondrial membrane potential of BM‐EPCs. Moreover, SAL stimulated the phosphorylation of Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin and p70 S6 kinase, as well as ERK1/2, which is associated with cell migration and capillary tube formation. Additionally, SAL reversed the phosphorylation of JNK and p38 MAPK induced by H2O2 and suppressed the changes in the Bax/Bcl‐xL ratio observed after stimulation with H2O2.

Conclusions and Implications

These findings identify novel mechanisms that regulate EPC function and suggest that SAL has therapeutic potential as a new agent to enhance vasculogenesis as well as protect against oxidative endothelial injury.
Breakout of squeezed stocks: dispersal of roof fragments, source of extrusive salt and interaction with regional thrust faults
Authors: Dooley T. P. , Jackson M. P. A. , Hudec M. R.
Published: January 2014

We used seven scaled physical models to explore the near‐surface structural evolution of shallowly buried, actively rising salt stocks. The models consisted of dry sand, ceramic microspheres and silicone. Previously dormant stocks rose because of lateral squeezing or pumping of salt from below. The pressure of rising salt created a dynamic bulge in the crest of the diapir, which arched the overlying roof sediments. Eventually this dynamic bulge collapsed and its overlying roof broke into rafts along subradial grabens. The rafts were dispersed outwards by shear traction of spreading salt, surmounting an upturned collar of country rock and eventually grounding at the front of the extrusive flow. Flow of salt around these stranded fragments created a lobate extrusion front, common in submarine salt sheets in the Gulf of Mexico and subaerial salt glaciers in Iran. Stock geometry, regional dip and roof density affected extrusion rates and spreading directions. Stocks leaning seaward extruded salt faster and farther than did upright stocks. Dense roofs foundered and plugged the vent, limiting surface extrusion. In tilted models, broad salt sheets spread asymmetrically downslope. Stock contents were inverted within the extruded salt sheet: successively deeper parts of the stock's core rose to the surface and overran salt extruded from the shallower parts of the diapir. As shortening continued, salt from the source layer reached the surface after being driven out by thrusting. A central thrust block, or primary indenter, moved ahead of surrounding thrust blocks, impinging against and squeezing the stock into an elliptical planform. After high shortening, secondary indenters converged obliquely into the salt stock, expelling salt from the periphery of the diapir. The models shed light on (1) the origin and fate of large rafts or carapace blocks atop allochthonous salt, (2) cuspate margins of salt sheets and (3) interaction of thrusting, diapir pinch‐off and emplacement of allochthonous salt sheets.
Rapid outer marginal collapse at the rift to drift transition of passive margin evolution, with a Gulf of Mexico case study
Authors: Pindell J. , Graham R. , Horn B.
Published: January 2014

Interpretation of long‐offset 2D depth‐imaged seismic data suggests that outer continental margins collapse and tilt basinward rapidly as rifting yields to seafloor spreading and thermal subsidence of the margin. This collapse post‐dates rifting and stretching of the crust, but occurs roughly ten times faster than thermal subsidence of young oceanic crust, and thus is tectonic and pre‐dates the ‘drift stage’. We term this middle stage of margin development ‘outer margin collapse’, and it accords with the exhumation stage of other authors. Outer continental margins, already thinned by rifting processes, become hanging walls of crustal‐scale half grabens associated with landward‐dipping shear zones and zones of low‐shear strength magma at the base of the thinned crust. The footwalls of the shear zones comprise serpentinized sub‐continental mantle that commonly becomes exhumed from beneath the embrittled continental margin. At magma‐poor margins, outer continental margins collapse and tilt basinward to depths of about 3 km subsea at the continent–ocean transition, often deeper than the adjacent oceanic crust (accreted later between 2 and 3 km). We use the term ‘collapse’ because of the apparent rapidity of deepening (<3 Myr). Rapid salt deposition, clastic sedimentation (deltaic), or magmatism (magmatic margins) may accompany collapse, with salt thicknesses reaching 5 km and volcanic piles 1525 km. This mechanism of rapid salt deposition allows mega‐salt basins to be deposited on end‐rift unconformities at global sea level, as opposed to deep, air‐filled sub‐sea depressions. Outer marginal collapse is ‘post‐rift’ from the perspective of faulting in the continental crust, but of tectonic, not of thermal, origin. Although this appears to be a global process, the Gulf of Mexico is an excellent example because regional stratigraphic and structural relations indicate that the pre‐salt rift basin was filled to sea level by syn‐rift strata, which helps to calibrate the rate and magnitude of collapse. We examine the role of outer marginal detachments in the formation of East India, southern Brazil and the Gulf of Mexico, and how outer marginal collapse can migrate diachronously along strike, much like the onset of seafloor spreading. We suggest that backstripping estimates of lithospheric thinning (beta factor) at outer continental margins may be excessive because they probably attribute marginal collapse to thermal subsidence.
Structural Factors Affecting Cytotoxic Activity of (E)‐1‐(Benzo[d ][1,3]oxathiol‐6‐yl)‐3‐phenylprop‐2‐en‐1‐one Derivatives
Authors: Konieczny Marek T. , Bułakowska Anita , Polak Justyna , Pirska Danuta , Konieczny Wojciech , Gryń Patrycja , Skladanowski Andrzej , Sabisz Michał , Lemke Krzysztof , Pieczykolan Anna , Gałązka Marlena , Wiciejowska Katarzyna , Wietrzyk Joanna
Published: January 2014

Derivatives of (E)‐1‐(5‐alkoxybenzo[d][1,3]oxathiol‐6‐yl)‐3‐phenylprop‐2‐en‐1‐one demonstrated exceptionally high in vitro cytotoxic activity, with IC50 values of the most active derivatives in the nanomolar range. To identify structural fragments necessary for the activity, several analogs deprived of selected fragments were prepared, and their cytotoxic activity was tested. It was found that the activity depends on combined effects of (i) the heterocyclic ring, (ii) the alkoxy group at position 5 of the benzoxathiole ring, and (iii) the substituents in the phenyl ring B. Replacement of the sulfur atom by oxygen does not influence the activity. None of the listed structural fragments alone assured high cytotoxic activity.