bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell-based laboratory evaluation of coagulation activation by antineoplastic drugs for the treatment of lymphoid tumors
Authors: Tsunaka Misae , Arai Reina , Ohashi Ayaka , Koyama Takatoshi
Published: July 2016

Objectives:

Combining vorinostat, L-asparaginase, and doxorubicin (Dox) led to improved response rates in the treatment of lymphoid tumors. However, deep-vein thrombosis has been noted as one of the most serious side effects with these drugs, and how these regimens cause deep-vein thrombosis is unclear.

Methods:

We investigated the procoagulant effects of vorinostat, L-asparaginase, and doxorubicin in lymphoid tumors, focusing on tissue factor, phosphatidylserine, and antithrombin. The human vascular endothelial cell line EAhy926 as well as the lymphoid neoplastic cell lines HUT78 (cutaneous T-cell lymphoma), Molt4 (acute T-lymphoblastic leukemia), and Ramos (Burkitt lymphoma) were employed to investigate these procoagulant effects.

Results:

Vorinostat, L-asparaginase, and doxorubicin induced exposure of phosphatidylserine and procoagulant activity on the surface of lymphoid tumor cells. Vorinostat and doxorubicin also induced phosphatidylserine exposure and increased procoagulant activity on EAhy926 cells. Expression of tissue factor antigen was induced by doxorubicin on the surface of each type of cells, whereas expression of tissue factor mRNA was unchanged. Secretion of antithrombin from HepG2 cells was reduced only by L-asparaginase.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that vorinostat and doxorubicin may induce procoagulant activity in vessels through apoptosis of tumor cells and through phosphatidylserine exposure and/or tissue factor expression on vascular endothelial cells. L-asparaginase may induce a thrombophilic state by reducing the secretion of anticoagulant proteins such as antithrombin. The laboratory methods described here could be useful to evaluate the procoagulant effects of antineoplastic drugs.
Composing hope through collage: A community-based intervention for cancer survivors living with lymphedema
Authors: Thomas Roanne , Hamilton Ryan
Published: July 2016

Secondary lymphedema after cancer may result in distress, yet few interventions exist to support coping skills in this population. As part of a community-based intervention, we piloted the use of creative practices to promote active orientations to hope. A total of 19 participants completed the workshops; 11 collaged. The main themes address the collage processes as well as their content. The former addresses sub-themes such as selecting/composing. The latter includes sub-themes related to movement depicted in the collages. Collages and their associated discussions concretized hoping as an active and accessible process for participants living with two chronic illnesses.
Testicular microlithiasis and preliminary experience of acoustic radiation force impulse imaging
Authors: Pedersen Malene Roland , Osther Palle Jørn Sloth , Rafaelsen Søren Rafael
Published: July 2016

Background

Elastography of the testis can be used as a part of multiparametric examination of the scrotum.

Purpose

To determine the testicular stiffness using acoustic radiation force impulse imaging (ARFI) technique in men with testicular microlithiasis (TML).

Material and Methods

In 2013, 12 patients with diagnosed testicular microlithiasis in 2008 (mean age, 51 years; age range, 25–76 years) underwent a 5-year follow-up B-mode ultrasonography with three ARFI elastography measurements of each testis. We used a Siemens Acuson S3000 machine.

Results

No malignancy was found at the 5-year follow-up B-mode and elastography in 2013. However, we found an increase in TML; in the previous ultrasonography in 2008, eight men had bilateral TML, whereas in 2013, 10 men were diagnosed with bilateral TML. The mean elasticity of testicles with TML was 0.82 m/s (interquartile range [IQR], 0.72–0.88 m/s; range, 65–1.08 m/s).

Conclusion

Elastography velocity of testis with TML seems to be in the same velocity range as in men with normal testis tissue.
Sonographic Assessment of Uterine Dehiscence During Pregnancy in Women With a History of Cesarean Section
Authors: Hatstat Lauren M.
Published: July 2016

Uterine scar dehiscence is a complication seen in pregnancy commonly from previous cesarean scars. It increases the risk for uterine rupture, which carries a high incidence for maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Ultrasound is an effective method to monitor the defect closely throughout pregnancy to help predict uterine rupture or neonate complications. Repair of a dehiscence may be possible, allowing for future pregnancies.
Organophilization of a Brazilian Mg-montmorillonite without prior sodium activation
Authors: Cavalcante Manoella Silva , Paz Simone Patrícia Aranha , Angélica Rômulo Simões , Ito Edson Noryuki , Freitas Neves Roberto
Published: July 2016

The use of Mg-montmorillonite in the production of organoclay without sodium activation was investigated. For this purpose, organophilization experiments were carried out by varying the concentration of two surfactants: hexadecyltrimethylammonium (HDTMA+) and dodecyltrimethylammonium (DTMA+) ions. These surfactantswere used at concentrations 0.7, 1.0 and 1.5 times that of the cation exchange capacity (62.6 meq/100 g) of the clay, with a reaction time of 8 h at temperatures of 25 and 80°C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirmed the intercalation for bothin naturaand activated samples. The Fourier-transforminfrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and XRD results showed that the ratio ofgauche/transconformers decreased with increased basal spacing. The results of thermodifferential and thermogravimetric analysis (DTA/DTG) confirmed the thermal stability of the organoclay up to 200°C, permitting the use of suchmaterial in the synthesis of polymer/clay nanocomposites obtained by the melt blending. Thus, Mg-montmorillonite can be intercalated with alkylammonium ions without prior Na-activation to form organoclays. The possibility of using natural (non-activated) Mg-montmorillonite represents a significant difference in terms of processing cost in comparison with existing Ca-montmorillonite in Brazil or even with imported bentonites that require Na-activation during beneficiation.
Hierarchy for targeting prosurvival BCL2 family proteins in multiple myeloma: pivotal role of MCL1
Authors: Gong Jia-Nan , Khong Tiffany , Segal David , Yao Yuan , Riffkin Chris D. , Garnier Jean-Marc , Khaw Seong Lin , Lessene Guillaume , Spencer Andrew , Herold Marco J. , Roberts Andrew W. , Huang David C. S.
Published: July 2016

Key Points

Only a minority of myeloma cell lines are killed when the prosurvival BCL2 or BCLXL are selectively inhibited with BH3 mimetic compounds. In contrast, targeting MCL1 readily killed ∼70% of the myeloma cell lines tested, including both low-passage and well-established ones.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Some new results on the boundary behaviors of harmonic functions with integral boundary conditions
Authors: Xie Xiaozhen , Viouonu Costanza T
Published: July 2016

In this paper, using a generalized Carleman formula, we prove two new results on the boundary behaviors of harmonic functions with integral boundary conditions in a smooth cone, which generalize some recent results.
Complete genome of Nitrosospira briensis C-128, an ammonia-oxidizing bacterium from agricultural soil
Authors: Rice Marlen C. , Norton Jeanette M. , Valois Frederica , Bollmann Annette , Bottomley Peter J. , Klotz Martin G. , Laanbroek Hendrikus J. , Suwa Yuichi , Stein Lisa Y. , Sayavedra-Soto Luis , Woyke Tanja , Shapiro Nicole , Goodwin Lynne A. , Huntemann Marcel , Clum Alicia , Pillay Manoj , Kyrpides Nikos , Varghese Neha , Mikhailova Natalia , Markowitz Victor , Palaniappan Krishna , Ivanova Natalia , Stamatis Dimitrios , Reddy T. B. K. , Ngan Chew Yee , Daum Chris
Published: July 2016

Nitrosospira briensisC-128 is an ammonia-oxidizing bacterium isolated from an acid agricultural soil.N. briensisC-128 was sequenced with PacBio RS technologies at the DOE-Joint Genome Institute through their Community Science Program (2010). The high-quality finished genome contains one chromosome of 3.21 Mb and no plasmids. We identified 3073 gene models, 3018 of which are protein coding. The two-way average nucleotide identity between the chromosomes ofNitrosospira multiformisATCC 25196 andNitrosospira briensisC-128 was found to be 77.2 %. Multiple copies of modules encoding chemolithotrophic metabolism were identified in their genomic context. The gene inventory supports chemolithotrophic metabolism with implications for function in soil environments.
Multichannel analysis of passive surface waves based on crosscorrelations
Authors: Cheng Feng , Xia Jianghai , Luo Yinhe , Xu Zongbo , Wang Limin , Shen Chao , Liu Ruofei , Pan Yudi , Mi Binbin , Hu Yue
Published: July 2016

Passive seismic methods in highly populated urban areas have gained much attention from geophysics and civil engineering communities because traditional seismic surveys, especially in complex urbanized environments, might be improperly applied. In passive seismic methods, directional noise sources will inevitably bring azimuthal effects and spatial aliasing to dispersion measurements due to the fact that true randomness of ambient noise cannot be achieved in reality. To solve these problems, multichannel analysis of passive surface (MAPS) waves based on long noise sequence crosscorrelations is proposed. We have introduced a hybrid method of seismic interferometry and the roadside passive multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) using crosscorrelation to produce common virtual source gathers from 1 h multichannel noise records. Common virtual source gathers are then used to do dispersion analysis with an active scheme based on phase-shift measurement. Synthetic tests demonstrated the advantages of this method with azimuthal adjustment and dispersion imaging for directional noise source distribution. Two field applications were conducted, and results from the roadside passive MASW, MAPS, and spatial autocorrelation method were compared. Our study indicated the superiority of MAPS over the roadside passive MASW on the validity of azimuth detection, feasibility of combining the active MASW and MAPS, and accuracy in determining dispersion energy trends, especially at a relative low-frequency range ([Formula: see text]) in urban areas.
Models and methods for predicting hydraulic conductivity in near-surface unconsolidated sediments using nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Maurer Jeremy , Knight Rosemary
Published: July 2016

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) logging provides a relatively new approach for estimating the hydraulic conductivity [Formula: see text] of unconsolidated aquifers. We have evaluated results from model validation and uncertainty quantification using direct-push measurements of NMR mean relaxation times and [Formula: see text] in sands and gravels at three field sites. We have tested four models that have been proposed for predicting [Formula: see text] from NMR data, including the Schlumberger-Doll research, Seevers, and sum-of-echoes equations, all of which use empirically determined constants, as well as the Kozeny-Godefroy model, which predicts [Formula: see text] from several physical parameters. We have applied four methods of analysis to reanalyze NMR and [Formula: see text] data from the three field sites to quantify how well each model predicted [Formula: see text] from the mean log NMR relaxation time [Formula: see text] given the uncertainties in the data. Our results show that NMR-estimated porosity does not improve prediction of [Formula: see text] in our data set for any model and that all of the models can predict [Formula: see text] to within an order of magnitude using the calibrated constants we have found. We have shown the value of rigorous uncertainty quantification using the methods we used for analyzing [Formula: see text]-NMR data sets, and we have found that incorporating uncertainty estimates in our analysis gives a more complete understanding of the relationship between NMR-derived parameters and hydraulic conductivity than can be obtained through simple least-squares fitting. There is little variability in our data set in the calibrated constants we find, given the uncertainty present in the data, and therefore we suggest that the constants we find could be used to obtain first-order estimates of hydraulic conductivity in unconsolidated sands and gravels at new sites with NMR data available.
3D block QT inversion of surface nuclear magnetic resonance data
Authors: Jiang Chuandong , Liu Junyan , Tian Baofeng , Sun Shuqin , Lin Jun , Müller-Petke Mike
Published: July 2016

Surface nuclear magnetic resonance (surface NMR) has up to now rarely been applied to 3D subsurface modeling. Inversion approaches currently in use are smooth inversion techniques that are not useful for identifying sharp geologic boundaries. Although they are already computationally expensive, the resulting models are restricted to imaging the subsurface water content distribution and do not deliver relaxation times [Formula: see text] based on the QT inversion scheme established elsewhere. We have developed a method of 3D block QT inversion that uses horizontal smoothness constraints to resolve sharp boundaries in the vertical direction and the distributions of the water content and relaxation time [Formula: see text]. We have improved the computational efficiency, i.e., the ability to perform the inversion using a common desktop computer, by gating the surface NMR data, reducing the model space to monoexponential decays within the subsurface bodies, and inverting based on blocklike structures instead of smooth distributions. We have developed a synthetic study to assess the effectiveness of our block QT inversion technique in imaging 3D water content distributions, and we compared the results with those of a smooth inversion. Furthermore, we evaluated results from a field survey conducted on the frozen surface of an artificial lake. We found that our block QT inversion approach provides results that are superior to those of smooth inversion and consistent with the available construction plan of the lake. We expect that 3D block QT inversion will be a useful approach also in other geologic settings, such as buried valleys, because it overcomes the current limitations of applying 3D surface NMR inversion.
Integrated VTI model building with seismic data, geologic information, and rock-physics modeling — Part 1: Theory and synthetic test
Authors: Li Yunyue , Biondi Biondo , Clapp Robert , Nichols Dave
Published: July 2016

Seismic anisotropy plays an important role in structural imaging and lithologic interpretation. However, anisotropic model building is a challenging underdetermined inverse problem. It is well-understood that single component pressure wave seismic data recorded on the upper surface are insufficient to resolve a unique solution for velocity and anisotropy parameters. To overcome the limitations of seismic data, we have developed an integrated model building scheme based on Bayesian inference to consider seismic data, geologic information, and rock-physics knowledge simultaneously. We have performed the prestack seismic inversion using wave-equation migration velocity analysis (WEMVA) for vertical transverse isotropic (VTI) models. This image-space method enabled automatic geologic interpretation. We have integrated the geologic information as spatial model correlations, applied on each parameter individually. We integrate the rock-physics information as lithologic model correlations, bringing additional information, so that the parameters weakly constrained by seismic are updated as well as the strongly constrained parameters. The constraints provided by the additional information help the inversion converge faster, mitigate the ambiguities among the parameters, and yield VTI models that were consistent with the underlying geologic and lithologic assumptions. We have developed the theoretical framework for the proposed integrated WEMVA for VTI models and determined the added information contained in the regularization terms, especially the rock-physics constraints.
Transcutaneous Pco 2 Monitoring in Newborn Infants During General Anesthesia Is Technically Feasible
Authors: Karlsson Victoria , Sporre Bengt , Ågren Johan
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND:

Transcutaneous (TC) measurement of Pco
2 (TC Pco
2) is a well-established method to monitor assisted ventilation in neonatal intensive care, but its use in the operating room is limited, and the data regarding its performance during general anesthesia of the newborn are lacking. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance of continuous TC Pco
2 monitoring during general anesthesia in newborn infants.

METHODS:

Infants (n = 25) with a gestational age of 23 to 41 weeks and a birth weight of 548 to 4114 g were prospectively enrolled. During general anesthesia and surgery, TC Pco
2 was measured continuously and recorded at 1-minute intervals. Five-minute mean values were compared with simultaneously obtained blood gas (BG) analyses of Pco
2. Only the first paired TC and BG samples were used in this analysis. We defined precision as 2.1 times the standard deviation of the difference of the 2 samples. P < .01 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:

We obtained samples from 25 infants. The difference between TC and BG was 0.3 ± 0.7 kPa (mean ± standard deviation) giving a precision of 1.47 kPa. Nineteen of twenty-five (76%) sample pairs displayed a difference of <1 kPa (99% confidence interval, 48%–92%, P = .016). The difference in paired samples was similar for different gestational and postnatal ages and did not appear to be affected by electrocautery.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this small study, we did not demonstrate that TC CO2 monitoring was accurate at P < .01. This partly reflects the small size of the study, resulting in wide 99% confidence bounds.
Mesopontine Switch for the Induction of General Anesthesia by Dedicated Neural Pathways
Authors: Sukhotinsky Inna , Minert Anne , Soja Peter , Devor Marshall
Published: July 2016

We review evidence that the induction of anesthesia with GABAergic agents is mediated by a network of dedicated axonal pathways, which convey a suppressive signal to remote parts of the central nervous system. The putative signal originates in an anesthetic-sensitive locus in the brainstem that we refer to as the mesopontine tegmental anesthesia area (MPTA). This architecture stands in contrast to the classical notion that anesthetic molecules themselves directly mediate anesthetic induction after global distribution by the vascular circulation. The MPTA came to light in a systematic survey of the rat brain as a singular locus at which microinjection of minute quantities of GABAergic anesthetics is able to reversibly induce a state resembling surgical anesthesia. The rapid onset of anesthesia, the observed target specificity, and the fact that effective doses are far too small to survive dilution during vascular redistribution to distant areas in the central nervous system are all incompatible with the classical global suppression model. Lesioning the MPTA selectively reduces the animal’s sensitivity to systemically administered anesthetics. Taken together, the microinjection data show that it is sufficient to deliver γ-aminobutyric acid A receptor (GABAA-R) agonists to the MPTA to induce an anesthesia-like state and the lesion data indicate that MPTA neurons are necessary for anesthetic induction by the systemic route at clinically relevant doses. Known connectivity of the MPTA provides a scaffold for defining the specific projection pathways that mediate each of the functional components of anesthesia. Because MPTA lesions do not induce coma, the MPTA is not a key arousal nucleus essential for maintaining the awake state. Rather, it appears be a “gatekeeper” of arousal function, a major element in a flip-flop switching mechanism that executes rapid and reversible transitions between the awake and the anesthetic state.
Sex and the Colonial Archive: The Case of “Mariano” Aguilera
Authors: Martínez María Elena
Published: July 2016

Building on recent scholarship that has problematized the evidentiary status of archived sources and created new methods and analytical categories for reading sex and gender in those sources, this essay considers the case of Mariano Aguilera from mid-eighteenth-century New Spain. Raised as a girl, Aguilera upon reaching adulthood petitioned ecclesiastical authorities to order a physical inspection of his body so that he could be declared a man and marry Clara Ángela López. The essay shows how both abjection and criminality—or a discourse of “queerness”—led Aguilera to be exiled from his community, denied his petition, and prohibited from having any contact with López. The essay opens further questions about the meanings of hermaphroditism and androgyny in the Atlantic world, the ways in which they shaped medical and legal discourses on sodomy in metropolitan and colonial contexts, and the role of doctors and surgeons in legal cases involving queer bodies and lives.
Optimization of Curvilinear Needle Trajectories for Transforamenal Hippocampotomy
Authors: Comber David B. , Pitt E. Bryn , Gilbert Hunter B. , Powelson Matthew W. , Matijevich Emily , Neimat Joseph S. , Webster Robert J. , Barth Eric J.
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND: The recently developed magnetic resonance imaging–guided laser-induced thermal therapy offers a minimally invasive alternative to craniotomies performed for tumor resection or for amygdalohippocampectomy to control seizure disorders. Current laser-induced thermal therapies rely on linear stereotactic trajectories that mandate twist-drill entry into the skull and potentially long approaches traversing healthy brain. The use of robotically driven, telescoping, curved needles has the potential to reduce procedure invasiveness by tailoring trajectories to the curved shape of the ablated structure and by enabling access through natural orifices.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility of using a concentric tube robot to access the hippocampus through the foramen ovale to deliver thermal therapy and thereby provide a percutaneous treatment for epilepsy without drilling the skull.

METHODS: The skull and both hippocampi were segmented from dual computed tomography/magnetic resonance image volumes for 10 patients. For each of the 20 hippocampi, a concentric tube robot was designed and optimized to traverse a trajectory from the foramen ovale to and through the hippocampus from head to tail.

RESULTS: Across all 20 cases, the mean distances (errors) between the hippocampus medial axis and backbone of the needle were 0.55, 1.11, and 1.66 mm for the best, mean, and worst case, respectively.

CONCLUSION: These curvilinear trajectories would provide accurate transforamenal delivery of an ablation probe to typical hippocampus volumes. This strategy has the potential both to decrease the invasiveness of the procedure and to increase the completeness of hippocampal ablation.
Editorial
Authors: Editores Os
Published: July 2016

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Observability Increases the Demand for Commitment Devices
Authors: Exley Christine L. , Naecker Jeffrey K.
Published: July 2016

Previous research often interprets the choice to restrict one’s future opportunity set as evidence for sophisticated time inconsistency. We propose an additional mechanism that may contribute to the demand for commitment technology: the desire to signal to others. We present a field experiment where participants can choose to give up money if they do not follow through with an action. When commitment choices are made public rather than kept private, we find significantly higher uptake rates.

Data are available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2016.2501 .

This paper was accepted by Uri Gneezy, behavioral economics.
The Moderating Role of Submarket Dynamics on the Product Customization–Firm Survival Relationship
Authors: Bhaskarabhatla Ajay
Published: July 2016

In this paper, we examine how the provision of product customization services affects firm survival. Integrating literatures on industry evolution, product-related adapting services, and entry deterrence, we hypothesize that the relationship between product customization—the costly modification of a product to cater to customer needs—and firm survival differs across industries, based on the extent of submarkets. We argue that in industries that feature submarkets more prominently, the positive association between product customization and firm survival is stronger for two conceptually distinct and empirically distinguishable mechanisms: customizing firms enter new submarkets and also deter potential entry. We conclude that offering product customization services has strategic benefits that sometimes outweigh the cost of coordinating with customers.
Commodity Representations and Cut-Set-Based Inequalities for Multicommodity Capacitated Fixed-Charge Network Design
Authors: Chouman Mervat , Crainic Teodor Gabriel , Gendron Bernard
Published: July 2016

We improve the mixed-integer programming formulation of the multicommodity capacitated fixed-charge network design problem by incorporating valid inequalities into a cutting-plane algorithm. We use five classes of known valid inequalities: the strong, cover, minimum cardinality, flow cover, and flow pack inequalities. The first class is particularly useful when a disaggregated representation of the commodities is chosen, and the last four are expressed in terms of network cut sets. We develop efficient separation and lifting procedures for these classes of inequalities. We present computational results on a large set of instances of various characteristics, allowing us to measure the impact of the different classes of valid inequalities on the quality of the lower bounds, in particular with respect to the representation of the commodities.
The role of biomarkers in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection
Authors: Shahi AliSina , Parvizi Javad
Published: July 2016

The role of serum erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) as the first line for evaluating a patient with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) has been debunked. We are living in the era of biomarkers for the diagnosis of PJI, and to that effect, several biomarkers have been introduced such as synovial fluid alpha defensin and leukocyte esterase. The synovial fluid leukocyte esterase test has a low cost, is accessible, and has provided promising results for diagnosing PJI. There is an urgent need for an accurate and reliable serum biomarker for diagnosing patients with PJI.

Cite this article: Shahi A, Parvizi J. The role of biomarkers in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection. EFORT Open Rev 2016;1:275-278. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.160019.
Evaluation of the hemostatic state, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in young women with abdominal obesity and hypertension
Authors: Sumerkina Veronika Andreevna , Chulkov Vasiliy Sergeevich , Chulkov Vladislav Sergeevich , Golovneva Elena Stanislavovna , Telesheva Larisa Fedorovna , Mezentseva Elena Anatol'evna , Nikushkina Karina Viktorovna
Published: July 2016

Aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of the laboratory parameters of hemostasis, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in women with metabolic syndrome, isolated abdominal obesity or with hypertension.Materials and methods. The study included 71 women aged 30 – 44 years and was conducted at laboratory study of hemostasis system, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.Results. In women with abdominal obesity and arterial hypertension we found an increased levels of glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-C and triglycerides and a decrease in a concentration of HDL-C compared to healthy women. The study of hemostasis revealed prothrombotic changes in the form of activation of coagulation hemostasis and fibrinolysis system activity.Conclusions. The disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism are very prevalent in young women with abdominal obesity and hypertension with every second woman meeting the criteria for the metabolic syndrome. The most pronounced signs of activation of blood coagulation markes was seen in women with abdominal obesity and hypertension. In women with the individual components of the metabolic syndrome there were no significant changes in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, although we saw an early signs of activation of hemocoagulation.
How I Treat Elderly or Comorbid Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Smolej Lukáš
Published: July 2016

Treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) has recently undergone several major changes. Most importantly, large randomized trials (CLL-8 in first line and REACH in relapse) clearly demonstrated superiority of chemoimmunotherapy consisting of fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab (FCR) over fludarabine and cyclophosphamide (FC) alone, thus establishing FCR regimen as the new gold standard in younger and physically fit patients. However, management of elderly and/or comorbid patients is still a challenging task because they cannot be treated with agressive approaches due to high risk of unacceptable toxicity. To date, no randomized trials in this patient population have improved therapeutic results over chlorambucil; therefore, this agent remains the backbone of treatment against which the new protocols should be tested. When deciding about the intensity of treatment, performance status, biological age and number as well as severity of comorbidities should be taken into account. Emerging treatment concepts for elderly/comorbid patients include combination of chlorambucil with monoclonal antibodies (rituximab, ofatumumab, GA-101), fludarabine-based regimens in reduced doses or protocols based on bendamustine and lenalidomide. Combination of highdose steroids with rituximab represent a promising option in relapsed/refractory CLL; however, infectious toxicity remains a serious issue. Finally, ofatumumab monotherapy appears to be a safe and effective therapy for heavily pretreated patients with CLL. This article reviews the current and future possibilities in the treatment of elderly and comorbid patients with CLL.
Plasma Interleukin-6 Level is Associated with NT-proBNP Level and Predicts Short- and Long Term Mortality in Patients with Acute Heart Failure
Authors: Pudil Radek , Tichý Miloš , Andrýs Ctirad , Řeháček Vít , Bláha Václav , Vojáček Jan , Palička Vladimír
Published: July 2016

Objectives: Interleukin 6 plays an important role in chronic heart failure (HF), but little is known about its involvement in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). The aim of our study is to evaluate the prognostic role of interleukin 6 (IL-6) in the patients with ADHF.Methods: Plasma levels of interleukin IL-6, N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide levels, and clinical covariates were measured in 92 patients with ADHF. Survival was followed up to 12 months, and prognostic factors were evaluated.Results: Elevated plasma IL-6 levels were increased in nonsurvivors and were associated with 1-year mortality (p<0.01). Plasma IL-6 levels were associated with plasma NT-proBNP levels. In multivariate analysis, increased plasma IL-6 and NT-proBNP levels remained strong independent predictors of 1-year mortality.Conclusions: Plasma IL-6 levels provide important prognostic information in the patients with ADHF. Measurement combining plasma IL-6 and NT-proBNP should serve as a powerful prognostic tool of multimarker strategy in patients with acute decompensated heart failure.
Surgical Treatment of Periodontal Intrabony Defects with Calcium Sulphate in Combination with Beta Tricalcium Phosphate – A 12-Month Retrospective Clinical Evaluation
Authors: Sukumar Sujith , Dřízhal Ivo , Bukač Josef , Paulusová Vladimíra , Pilathadka Shriharsha
Published: July 2016

Alloplastic bone graft materials are widely been used in combination with barrier membranes to achieve guided tissue regeneration in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects. This study was designed to evaluate the clinical outcome of a composite material, beta tricalcium phosphate in combination with calcium sulphate in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects. The combination of these materials is believed to aid in guided tissue regeneration owing to their properties. Thirty nine intrabony defects in 21 patients were treated with Fortoss® Vital (Biocomposites, Staffordshire, UK). Clinical parameters were evaluated including changes in probing depth, clinical attachment level/loss and gingival recession at baseline and one year postoperatively. The mean differences in measurements between the baseline and one year postoperatively are a reduction of 1.98±1.16 mm (p=0.000) in case of probing depth and a gain of 1.68±1.12 mm (p=0.000) in clinical attachment level and an increase of 0.31±0.67 mm (p=0.009) in gingival recession measurements. The study results show that the treatment with a combination of beta tricalcium phosphate and calcium sulphate led to a significantly favorable clinical improvement in periodontal intrabony defects one year postoperatively.
A Case of Disproportionate Macrodactyly or a Mild form of Proteus Syndrome? An Interesting Case
Authors: Abdullah Shalimar , Haflah Nor Hazla Mohd , Sapuan Jamari , Das Srijit
Published: July 2016

We present a 20-year-old Malay male whom we believe has Proteus syndrome, a rare congenital disorder of asymmetrical overgrowth of body tissues. There are fewer than 100 confirmed cases reported worldwide thus the clinical presentation and histopathological findings are of significance. Our patient presented with an overgrown right small finger and subcutaneous purplish pigmentation over his left upper arm and chest since birth. His small finger gradually increased in size. He had no abnormalities in sensation or power. Radiographs revealed a delta shaped middle phalanx of the small finger. His activities of daily living were uninterrupted but he requested debulking surgery for cosmetic reasons. Histopathological examination reported hypertrophic fatty tissue composed of well formed lobules of mature adipocytes interspersed with fibrous elements.
Microwave-assisted and conventional synthesis of novel antimicrobial 1,2,4-triazole derivatives containing nalidixic acid skeleton
Authors: Ceylan Sule , Bayrak Hacer , Basoglu Ozdemir Serap , Uygun Yıldız , Mermer Arif , Demirbas Neslihan , Ulker Serdar
Published: July 2016

Carbothioamides 4a,b, obtained from nalidixic acid, were converted to the corresponding 1,3-thiazolidine derivatives 5a,b by cyclocondensation with 2-bromo-1-(4-chlorophenyl)ethanone. Treatment of 4a,b with base afforded 1,2,4-triazoles 6a,b. The synthesis of 1,3-oxazolidine 7 was performed by the reaction of compound 4a with ethyl bromoacetate. Treatment of 4a with acid produced 1,3,4-thiadiazole 8. The reaction of compounds 6a and 6b with several heterocyclic amines in the presence of formaldehyde gave the corresponding Mannich bases 9–15 containing various pharmacophore groups. Conventional and microwave-assisted methods were used for the synthesis. The effect of an acid catalyst on Mannich reactions was investigated. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were elucidated on the basis of 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FTIR, EIMS techniques, and elemental analysis. All compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activity.
Protection against arsenic-induced hematological and hepatic anomalies by supplementation of vitamin C and vitamin E in adult male rats
Authors: Mondal Rubia , Biswas Sagnik , Chatterjee Anirban , Mishra Raghwendra , Mukhopadhyay Aparna , Bhadra Rupak K. , Mukhopadhyay Prabir Kr.
Published: July 2016

Background:

Chronic arsenic exposure via contaminated drinking water is a global environmental health problem associated with hematological, hepatic and many serious systemic disorders. This study on adult male rats evaluated the protective effects of vitamin E (VE) and vitamin C (VC) against arsenic-mediated hematological and hepatic toxicities.

Methods:

Arsenic was administered orally as arsenic trioxide (3 mg/kg body weight/day), as a single dose for 30 consecutive days or along with VC/ascorbic acid (200 mg/kg body weight/day dissolved in water) and VE/α-tocopherol (400 mg/kg body weight/day dissolved in olive oil) as supplements. Multiple hematological and hepatic parameters were assessed.

Results:

Arsenic exposure caused significant reduction of erythrocyte counts (p<0.05), leukocyte counts (p<0.01) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels (p<0.01). Arsenic exposure also led to marked echinocytic transformation of erythrocytes resulting in increased morphological index (p<0.001). Altered serum oxidative balance was observed with a higher oxidative stress index (p<0.001). The results also showed a significant increase of serum cholesterol (p<0.05), low-density lipoprotein (p<0.001) and triglycerides (p<0.01), and decreased high-density lipoprotein (p<0.01) along with total protein (p<0.01). A marked elevation of hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (p<0.05) along with decreased reduced glutathione (p<0.001) levels were also observed. Interestingly, co-administration of VC and VE significantly prevented all the arsenic-induced alterations (p<0.05) except Hb content and serum protein.

Conclusions:

The present investigation offers strong evidence regarding the protective efficacy of co-administration of VC and VE against hematotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in adult male rats caused by chronic arsenic exposure.
Beauville structures inp-central quotients
Authors: Gül Şükran
Published: July 2016

We prove a conjecture of Boston that ifp≥5${p\geq 5}$, allp-central quotients of the free group on two generators and of the free product of two cyclic groups of orderpare Beauville groups. In the case of the free product, we also determine Beauville structures inp-central quotients whenp=3${p=3}$. As a consequence, we give an infinite family of Beauville 3-groups, which is different from the ones that were known up to date.
Commensurated subgroups in finitely generated branch groups
Authors: Wesolek Phillip
Published: July 2016

A subgroup

H
≤
G

${H\leq G}$

is commensurated if

|
H
:
H
∩
g
H

g

-
1

|
<
∞

$|H:H\cap gHg^{-1}|<\infty$

for all

g
∈
G

${g\in G}$

. We show that a finitely generated branch group is just infinite if and only if every commensurated subgroup is either finite or of finite index. As a consequence, every commensurated subgroup of the Grigorchuk group and many other branch groups of independent interest is either finite or of finite index.
When do L-fuzzy ideals of a ring generate a distributive lattice?
Authors: Gao Ninghua , Li Qingguo , Li Zhaowen
Published: July 2016

The notion of L-fuzzy extended ideals is introduced in a Boolean ring, and their essential properties are investigated. We also build the relation between an L-fuzzy ideal and the class of its L-fuzzy extended ideals. By defining an operator “⇝” between two arbitrary L-fuzzy ideals in terms of L-fuzzy extended ideals, the result that “the family of all L-fuzzy ideals in a Boolean ring is a complete Heyting algebra” is immediately obtained. Furthermore, the lattice structures of L-fuzzy extended ideals of an L-fuzzy ideal, L-fuzzy extended ideals relative to an L-fuzzy subset, L-fuzzy stable ideals relative to an L-fuzzy subset and their connections are studied in this paper.
Simulation of electrically controlled nematic liquid crystal Rochon prism
Authors: Buczkowska M. , Derfel G.
Published: July 2016

Operation of an electrically controlled beam steering device based on Rochon prism made by use of nematic liquid crystal is modelled numerically. Deflection angles and angular distribution of light intensity in the deflected beam are calculated. Dynamics of the device is studied. Advantage of application of dual frequency nematic liquid crystal is demonstrated. Role of flexoelectric properties of the nematic is analyzed.
Synthesis and characterization of two copper(II) complexes with carboxyl ligands
Authors: Wang Jiangyun , Ma Zhenping , Qianxiu Pan , Fenglian Zhang , Li Yang
Published: July 2016

The preparation and characterization of two novel copper(II) complexes of formula [Cu2(bpca)2(C5H4NCO2)2]·(C5H4NCO2H)·H2O 1 and [Cu(bpca)(C7H5O3)]·H2O 2 [bpca=bis(2-pyridylcarbonyl)amide anion] are reported in this paper. The structures of complex 1 and 2 were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and characterized by IR, UV-vis and EPR spectra. The magnetic susceptibilities measured over the range 2–300 K show a weak ferromagnetic interaction between the two copper(II) ions in complex 1, best fitting for the experimental data leads to J=0.073 cm−1, g=2.038, the 1/χM=f(
T
) curve for the complex fits Curie–Weiss law also implying the presence of ferromagnetic interactions between the neighboring Cu(II) atoms. For the complex 2, the study of EPR spectrum suggests the copper(II) atom is in a axial symmetry coordinated surrouding and the unpaired electrons occupy the dx2-y2 orbital.
Effects of a 10-Week Nordic Hamstring Exercise and Russian Belt Training on Posterior Lower-Limb Muscle Strength in Elite Junior Soccer Players
Authors: Rey Ezequiel , Paz-Domínguez Álvaro , Porcel-Almendral David , Paredes-Hernández Víctor , Barcala-Furelos Roberto , Abelairas-Gómez Cristian
Published: July 2016

Rey, E, Paz-Domínguez, Á, Porcel-Almendral, D, Paredes-Hernández, V, Barcala-Furelos, R, and Abelairas-Gómez, C. Effects of a 10-week Nordic hamstring exercise and Russian belt training on posterior lower-limb muscle strength in elite junior soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 31(5): 1198–1205, 2017—The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of 2 eccentric hamstring training exercises, Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) and Russian belt (RB), on lower-limb strength and bilateral asymmetry using the single-leg hamstring bridge (SLHB) test. Forty-seven elite junior soccer players (age 17.7 ± 0.5 years, height 175.3 ± 3.6 cm, body mass 68.1 ± 7.4 kg) were randomized into 1 of 3 groups, the NHE group (n = 16), RB group (n = 15), or the control group (CG) (n = 16). The eccentric training intervention consisted of 27 supervised training sessions over 10 weeks. Within-group analysis showed significant improvements (p < 0.001) in right SLHB (+25.52% for NHE and +18.33% for RB) and left SLHB (+28.92% for NHE and +20.08% for RB) from pretest to posttest in NHE and RB. However, no significant pre-post changes were observed for the CG in any variable. In addition, a significant time effect (p = 0.028) was also observed for NHE in bilateral asymmetry decreasing from pre- to posttest. In the between-groups analysis, significant better results were found in right SLHB and left SLHB, in the NHE group and RB group in comparison with CG. However, there were no differences between the eccentric training groups (NHE vs. RB). The RB seems to be a viable alternative to the NHE to developing posterior lower-limb muscle strength based on SLHB.
La historia como recurso didáctico para la enseñanza de las matemáticas desde las directrices curriculares para la educación secundaria en Costa Rica (1949-2012)
Authors: Castro-Soto Leonel , Cortés-Campos Patricia , Guzmán-Gómez Roberto , Lezcano-Arias Noemí , Mora-Coto Grettel , Rosales-Fernández Natalia , Picado-Alfaro Miguel
Published: July 2016

En Costa Rica, la reforma curricular de 2012 introdujo la historia de las matemáticas como un eje disciplinar otorgándole un papel protagónico en el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje. Este artículo describe la evolución que han tenido los programas de estudio como hilo conductor de la enseñanza de la matemática dentro de la educación secundaria en Costa Rica entre 1949 y 2012. Particularmente, destacan los planteamientos curriculares sobre el uso de la historia de la matemática como recurso didáctico. El estudio ha permitido reconocer dos tendencias específicas de este uso en los programas de estudio analizados: La historia es un elemento motivador para estudiantes, y una herramienta metodológica para la planificación didáctica del profesorado.
A Quality Improvement Collaborative to Improve the Discharge Process for Hospitalized Children
Authors: Wu Susan , Tyler Amy , Logsdon Tina , Holmes Nicholas M. , Balkian Ara , Brittan Mark , Hoover LaVonda , Martin Sara , Paradis Melisa , Sparr-Perkins Rhonda , Stanley Teresa , Weber Rachel , Saysana Michele
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the impact of a quality improvement collaborative on quality and efficiency of pediatric discharges.

METHODS:

This was a multicenter quality improvement collaborative including 11 tertiary-care freestanding children’s hospitals in the United States, conducted between November 1, 2011 and October 31, 2012. Sites selected interventions from a change package developed by an expert panel. Multiple plan–do–study–act cycles were conducted on patient populations selected by each site. Data on discharge-related care failures, family readiness for discharge, and 72-hour and 30-day readmissions were reported monthly by each site. Surveys of each site were also conducted to evaluate the use of various change strategies.

RESULTS:

Most sites addressed discharge planning, quality of discharge instructions, and providing postdischarge support by phone. There was a significant decrease in discharge-related care failures, from 34% in the first project quarter to 21% at the end of the collaborative (P < .05). There was also a significant improvement in family perception of readiness for discharge, from 85% of families reporting the highest rating to 91% (P < .05). There was no improvement in unplanned 72-hour (0.7% vs 1.1%, P = .29) and slight worsening of the 30-day readmission rate (4.5% vs 6.3%, P = .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Institutions that participated in the collaborative had lower rates of discharge-related care failures and improved family readiness for discharge. There was no significant improvement in unplanned readmissions. More studies are needed to evaluate which interventions are most effective and to assess feasibility in non–children’s hospital settings.
The audience response system may help short- and long-term knowledge gain in large classrooms
Authors: Ito Akihiro , Tsunekawa Koji , Fukuzawa Yoshitaka
Published: July 2016

This article was migrated. The article was not marked as recommended. Introduction: The audience response system (ARS) is widely used to increase active learning and expert knowledge gain from lectures. Several studies have shown its effectiveness in short-term knowledge gain, but few studies have reported on long-term knowledge gain. The present authors measured short- and long-term knowledge gain with ARS in a large class. Methods: This study was conducted during a clinical reasoning course for medical students over a 3-month period. Students completed the same questionnaire (40 multiple-choice questions) before (pretest) and after the course (posttest). The authors administered 20 ARS and 20 non-ARS questions in five different sessions during the course. Average pre- and posttest scores were compared to evaluate short- and long-term knowledge gain. Results: The average posttest score for ARS questions was 2.5 points higher than the average pretest score; a statistically significant difference. The average non-ARS posttest score was 0.2 points higher than the average pretest score, but was not statistically significant. The short- and long-term average posttest scores with ARS were higher than the average pretest scores, and were statistically significant. Conclusions: Overall knowledge gain during the course showed improvement when ARS was used.