bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lactic Acid Bacteria as a Surface Display Platform for Campylobacter jejuni Antigens
Authors: Kobierecka Patrycja , Wyszyńska Agnieszka , Maruszewska Marta , Wojtania Anna , Żylińska Joanna , Bardowski Jacek , Jagusztyn-Krynicka Elżbieta Katarzyna
Published: February 2015

Background: Food poisoning and diarrheal diseases continue to pose serious health care and socioeconomic problems worldwide. Campylobacter spp. is a very widespread cause of gastroenteritis. Over the past decade there has been increasing interest in the use of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as mucosal delivery vehicles. They represent an attractive opportunity for vaccination in addition to vaccination with attenuated bacterial pathogens. Methods: We examined the binding ability of hybrid proteins to nontreated or trichloroacetic acid (TCA)-pretreated LAB cells by immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis. Results: In this study we evaluated the possibility of using GEM (Gram-positive enhancer matrix) particles of Lactobacillus salivarius as a binding platform for 2 conserved, immunodominant, extracytoplasmic Campylobacter jejuni proteins: CjaA and CjaD. We analyzed the binding ability of recombinant proteins that contain C. jejuni antigens (CjaA or CjaD) fused with the protein anchor (PA) of the L. lactis peptidoglycan hydrolase AcmA, which comprises 3 LysM motifs and determines noncovalent binding to the cell wall peptidoglycan. Both fused proteins, i.e. 6HisxCjaAx3LysM and 6HisxCjaDx3LysM, were able to bind to nontreated or TCA-pretreated L. salivarius cells. Conclusion: Our results documented that the LysM-mediated binding system allows us to construct GEM particles that present 2 C. jejuni antigens.
Smart Stylet: The Development and Use of a Bedside External Ventricular Drain Image-Guidance System
Authors: Patil Vaibhav , Gupta Rajiv , San José Estépar Raúl , Lacson Ronilda , Cheung Arnold , Wong Judith M. , Popp A. John , Golby Alexandra , Ogilvy Christopher , Vosburgh Kirby G.
Published: February 2015

Background: Placement accuracy of ventriculostomy catheters is reported in a wide and variable range. Development of an efficient image-guidance system may improve physician performance and patient safety. Objective: We evaluate the prototype of Smart Stylet, a new electromagnetic image-guidance system for use during bedside ventriculostomy. Methods: Accuracy of the Smart Stylet system was assessed. System operators were evaluated for their ability to successfully target the ipsilateral frontal horn in a phantom model. Results: Target registration error across 15 intracranial targets ranged from 1.3 to 4.6 mm (mean 3.1 mm). Using Smart Stylet guidance, a test operator successfully passed a ventriculostomy catheter to a shifted ipsilateral frontal horn 20/20 (100%) times from the frontal approach in a skull phantom. Without Smart Stylet guidance, the operator was successful 4/10 (40%) times from the right frontal approach and 6/10 (60%) times from the left frontal approach. In a separate experiment, resident operators were successful 2/4 (50%) times when targeting the shifted ipsilateral frontal horn with Smart Stylet guidance and 0/4 (0%) times without image guidance using a skull phantom. Conclusions: Smart Stylet may improve the ability to successfully target the ventricles during frontal ventriculostomy.
Laryngeal Muscle Activity during Nasal High-Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation in Nonsedated Newborn Lambs
Authors: Hadj-Ahmed Mohamed Amine , Samson Nathalie , Nadeau Charlène , Boudaa Nadia , Praud Jean-Paul
Published: February 2015

Background: We have previously shown that nasal pressure support ventilation (nPSV) can lead to an active inspiratory laryngeal narrowing in lambs. This, in turn, can limit lung ventilation and divert air into the digestive system, with potentially deleterious consequences. On the other hand, nasal high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (nHFOV) is particularly attractive in newborns, especially since, unlike nPSV, it does not require synchronization with the patient's inspiratory efforts. Objectives: The main aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that glottal constrictor muscle activity (EMG) does not develop during nHFOV. A secondary objective was to study laryngeal EMG during nHFOV-induced central apneas. Methods: Polysomnographic recordings were performed in 7 nonsedated lambs which were ventilated with increasing levels of nPSV and nHFOV at both 4 and 8 Hz, in random order. States of alertness, diaphragm and glottal muscle EMG, SpO2, and respiratory movements were continuously recorded. Results: While phasic inspiratory glottal constrictor EMG appeared with increasing nPSV levels in 6 out of 7 lambs, it was never observed with nHFOV. In addition, nHFOV at 4 Hz dramatically inhibited central respiratory drive in 4/7 lambs, with 64-100% of recording time spent in central apnea in 3 lambs. No glottal constrictor EMG was observed during these central apneas. Conclusion: nHFOV does not induce glottal constrictor muscle EMG in nonsedated newborn lambs, in contrast to nPSV. This may be an additional advantage of nHFOV relative to nPSV.
Effects of Oral Administration of Lactobacillus acidophilus L-92 on the Symptoms and Serum Cytokines of Atopic Dermatitis in Japanese Adults: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Clinical Trial
Authors: Inoue Yusuke , Kambara Takeshi , Murata Naoko , Komori-Yamaguchi Junko , Matsukura Setsuko , Takahashi Yukitoshi , Ikezawa Zenro , Aihara Michiko
Published: February 2015

Objectives: Several studies on lactobacilli have demonstrated they are effective against atopic dermatitis (AD) in children, but there are very few reports of their effects in adults. We investigated the changes in AD symptoms in adults after the ingestion of the Lactobacillus acidophilus strain L-92 (L-92), which has been shown to have a curative effect on AD in children. Methods: A double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled comparison was performed on 49 AD patients aged ≥16 years using heat-killed L-92. Skin lesions were assessed using the SCORing AD (SCORAD) index before the start of L-92 ingestion and 4 and 8 weeks after ingestion. Serum cytokine and blood marker levels were measured 8 weeks after the start of L-92 ingestion. Results: The group that ingested L-92 had lower SCORAD scores than the controls (p = 0.002). The L-92 group also had decreased ratios of change for eosinophil count (p = 0.03) and increased ratios of change for serum TGF-β (p = 0.03). Ratios of change for serum TGF-β rose significantly (p = 0.04) in patients showing mitigated symptoms with L-92 administration. Conclusions: Administration of heat-killed L-92 was effective for AD symptoms in adults. L-92 may contribute to the suppression of Th2-dominant inflammation. Our preliminary trial is the first to report the effects of L-92 on adult AD.
Massive Cystic Degeneration of a Uterine Leiomyoma in a Patient with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Tomimatsu Takuji , Sugihara Mika , Nakamura Takafumi , Kashihara Naoki , Shimoya Koichiro
Published: February 2015

Background: A uterine cyst occurring as an extrarenal manifestation of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is extremely rare. Case: A 46-year-old Japanese woman was referred with a large abdominal mass causing severe abdominal distension. A large uterine cyst as an extrarenal manifestation of ADPKD was strongly suspected. First, we managed this patient by aspirating the cyst fluid through a small laparotomy. A year later, the cyst recurred and the patient underwent hysterectomy. Massive cystic degeneration of a uterine leiomyoma was diagnosed histologically. Conclusion: We described the rare case of massive cystic degeneration of a uterine leiomyoma in a patient with ADPKD, in which a causal relationship was suspected.
Long-Term Data from the Swiss Pulmonary Hypertension Registry
Authors: Mueller-Mottet Séverine , Stricker Hans , Domeninghetti Guido , Azzola Andrea , Geiser Thomas , Schwerzmann Markus , Weilenmann Daniel , Schoch Otto , Fellrath Jean-Marc , Rochat Thierry , Lador Frederic , Beghetti Maurice , Nicod Laurent , Aubert John-David , Popov Vladimir , Speich Rudolf , Keusch Stephan , Hasler Elisabeth , Huber Lars C. , Grendelmeier Peter , Tamm Michael , Ulrich Silvia
Published: February 2015

Background: Registries are important for real-life epidemiology on different pulmonary hypertension (PH) groups. Objective: To provide long-term data of the Swiss PH registry of 1998-2012. Methods: PH patients have been classified into 5 groups and registered upon written informed consent at 5 university and 8 associated hospitals since 1998. New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, 6-min walk distance, hemodynamics and therapy were registered at baseline. Patients were regularly followed, and therapy and events (death, transplantation, endarterectomy or loss to follow-up) registered. The data were stratified according to the time of diagnosis into prevalent before 2000 and incident during 2000-2004, 2005-2008 and 2009-2012. Results: From 996 (53% female) PH patients, 549 had pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), 36 PH due to left heart disease, 127 due to lung disease, 249 to chronic thromboembolic PH (CTEPH) and 35 to miscellaneous PH. Age and BMI significantly increased over time, whereas hemodynamic severity decreased. Overall, event-free survival was 84, 72, 64 and 58% for the years 1-4 and similar for time periods since 2000, but better during the more recent periods for PAH and CTEPH. Of all PAH cases, 89% had target medical therapy and 43% combination therapy. Of CTEPH patients, 14 and 2% underwent pulmonary endarterectomy or transplantation, respectively; 87% were treated with PAH target therapy. Conclusion: Since 2000, the incident Swiss PH patients registered were older, hemodynamically better and mostly treated with PAH target therapies. Survival has been better for PAH and CTEPH diagnosed since 2008 compared with earlier diagnosis or other classifications.
Can We State Stable Bladder? How Many Repetitions Should We Do for an Appropriate Demonstration of Involuntary Detrusor Contraction?
Authors: Rodrigues Paulo , Hering Flávio , Cieli Eli , DʼImperio Marcio , Campagnari João Carlos
Published: February 2015

Aims: Involuntary Detrusor Contraction (IDC) may alter therapeutic plans; therefore, urodynamic demonstration (UD) is pivotal. We explore if same session repetitions enhance its demonstration and minimize false-negative results. Methods: Two hundred fifty two women (mean age 47 ± 5.7) had 4 full repetitions of UD with the last round filled with 4°C fluid (Ice-water test). IDC was diagnosed if with at least 3 cm H2O after artifacts were ruled out. Results: 44.4% of the cases showed IDC in the first round of the exam but it could be demonstrated in 88.5% of the women if 4 rounds are taken into account. Only 2 cases showed IDC exclusively in the first round. Nine cases (3.5%) showed IDC in the first round and only on Ice-test, while all other IDC-detected cases revealed it in scattered patterns along the repetitions. Likewise, IDC detection on the second, third and fourth rounds varied widely and unpredictably, many failing to show a consistent pattern of presentation after its detection. IDC wave amplitude did not show any correlation to the detection. Conclusions: Urodynamic repetition is a necessary procedure where IDC is important to demonstrate, as its false-negative rate is high and its unpredictable pattern of detection may be improved by repetition.
The Time of Spontaneous Resolution of Monosymptomatic Nocturnal Enuresis (MNE) Is Familial
Authors: Oguz Ural , Aykac Aykut , Demirelli Erhan , Sancak Eyup Burak , Resorlu Berkan , Sarikaya Selcuk , Damar Erman , Bozkurt Omer Faruk , Ogreden Ercan , Yalcin Orhan
Published: February 2015

Purpose: To investigate whether or not the age of spontaneous resolution of monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE) was familial. Patients and Methods: A questionnaire was administered to more than 1,500 people, and 100 appropriate participants were identified from four referral hospitals. We included the participants who had MNE and whose parents also had MNE with spontaneous resolution. Then the association between the spontaneous resolution time of MNE in parents and that in their children was investigated. Results: The mean ages of spontaneous resolution were 10.7 (10-30 years), 9.4 (6-17 years) and 10.9 (6-18 years) in participants, their mothers and their fathers, respectively. According to the statistical analysis, there was a positive correlation between participants and both their mothers and fathers (p < 0.05). In addition, it was revealed that familial MNE history based on first- and second-degree relatives, in addition to their parents, was also associated with the increased spontaneous resolution age of MNE (p < 0.05). According to our results, gender and parents' education status were not statistically associated with the spontaneous resolution (p > 0.05). Conclusion: As a conclusion, the age of spontaneous resolution of MNE is familial. Although the exact reasons of spontaneous resolution still remain a mystery; further genetic investigations may be able to resolve this mystery.
The Association of Blood Pressure and Collateral Circulation in Hyperacute Ischemic Stroke Patients Treated with Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Rusanen Harri , Saarinen Jukka T. , Sillanpää Niko
Published: February 2015

Background: The integrity of collateral circulation is a major prognostic factor in ischemic stroke. Patients with good collateral status have larger penumbra and respond better to intravenous thrombolytic therapy. High systolic blood pressure is linked with worse clinical outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with intravenous thrombolytic therapy. We studied the effect of different blood pressure parameters on leptomeningeal collateral circulation in patients treated with intravenous thrombolytic therapy (<3 h) in a retrospective cohort. Methods: Anterior circulation thrombus was detected with computed tomography angiography and blood pressure was measured prior to intravenous thrombolytic therapy in 104 patients. Baseline clinical and imaging information were collected. Group comparisons were performed; Collateral Score (CS) was assessed and entered into logistic regression analysis. Results: Fifty-eight patients out of 104 displayed good collateral filling (CS ≥2). Poor CS was associated with more severe strokes according to National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) at arrival (16 vs. 11, p = 0.005) and at 24 h (15 vs. 3, p < 0.001) after the treatment. Good CS was associated with higher systolic blood pressure (p = 0.03), but not with diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.26), pulse pressure (p = 0.20) or mean arterial pressure (p = 0.07). Good CS was associated with better Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) in 24 h follow-up imaging (p < 0.001) and favorable clinical outcome at three months (mRS ≤2, p < 0.001). Median CS was the highest (CS = 3) when systolic blood pressure was between 170 and 190 mm Hg (p = 0.03). There was no significant difference in the number of patients with good (n = 11) and poor (n = 12) CS who received intravenous antihypertensive medication (p = 0.39) before or during the thrombolytic therapy. In multivariate analysis age (p = 0.02, OR 0.957 per year, 95% CI 0.92-0.99), time from the onset of symptoms to treatment (p = 0.005, OR 1.03 per minute, 95% CI 1.01-1.05), distal clot location (p = 0.02, OR 3.52, 95% CI 1.19-10.35) and systolic blood pressure (p = 0.04, OR 1.03 per unit mm Hg, 95% CI 1.00-1.05) predicted good CS. Higher systolic blood pressure (p = 0.049, OR 0.96 per unit mm Hg, 95% CI 0.93-1.00) and pulse pressure (p = 0.005, OR 0.94 per unit mm Hg, 95% CI 0.90-0.98) predicted unfavorable clinical outcome at three months in multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Moderately elevated systolic blood pressure is associated with good collateral circulation in patients treated with intravenous thrombolytic therapy. However, there is an inverse association of systolic blood pressure with the three-month clinical outcome. Diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure and pulse pressure are not statistically and significantly associated with collateral status.
The Effect of Isotretinoin on Ovarian Reserve Based on Hormonal Parameters, Ovarian Volume, and Antral Follicle Count in Women with Acne
Authors: Aksoy Huseyin , Cinar Levent , Acmaz Gokhan , Aksoy Ulku , Aydin Turgut , Vurdem Umit Erkan , Oz Leyla , Idem Karadag Ozge , Kartal Demet
Published: February 2015

Backgroud/Aims: Widely prescribed in routine practice, isotretinoin has an unknown impact on ovarian reserve. With a long history in acne treatment and numerous potential side effects, it is surprising that very few prospective studies have investigated its effect on ovarian reserve. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the impact of oral isotretinoin on ovarian reserve based on hormonal parameters, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), ovarian volume (OV), and antral follicle count (AFC) in women of reproductive age with acne. Methods: Our study group consisted of 82 women of reproductive age with acne who were treated with oral isotretinoin. The patients were evaluated for ovarian reserve prior to therapy and reevaluated 6 months after isotretinoin treatment with regard to hormonal parameters, AMH, OV, and AFC. Results: Significant differences were found between the pre- and posttreatment period for AMH [2.20 ng/ml (25th-75th percentile 1.14-4.07) vs. 1.31 ng/ml (0.32-2.28)], total AFC [16 (14-18.25) vs. 12.5 (10-15)], and total OV [23 ml (18-29) vs. 15 ml (13-18); p < 0.001]. Conclusion: Our study is the first to analyze the levels of serum AMH, AFC, and OV together in patients treated with oral isotretinoin for acne. The results of our study demonstrated that oral isotretinoin had a significant negative effect on ovarian reserve.
A Novel Hemizygous Mutation of MAMLD1 in a Patient with 46,XY Complete Gonadal Dysgenesis
Authors: Ruiz-Arana Inge-Lore , Hübner Angela , Cetingdag Cigdem , Krude Heiko , Grüters Annette , Fukami Maki , Biebermann Heike , Köhler Birgit
Published: February 2015

MAMLD1 is suggested to play a role in the development of 46,XY disorders of sexual development (46,XY DSD). So far, mutations in this gene have been detected in several cases of hypospadias with normal testosterone levels at birth. From in vitro studies it was concluded that Mamld1 might transiently affect testosterone synthesis during genital development. We describe the first MAMLD1 mutation in a 46,XY patient with complete gonadal dysgenesis. The novel MAMLD1 missense mutation (p.P677L) results in a severely reduced transactivation in vitro of the promoter of the MAMLD1 target gene HES3/Hes3. However, as knowledge about the functional role of MAMLD1 in gonadal development is limited, we suggest that additional factors (digenic or oligogenic cause) play a role in the development of complete gonadal dysgenesis in this patient.
Association Between Dietary Intake of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and the Incidence of Hypertension in a Spanish Cohort
Authors: Donat-Vargas Carolina , Gea Alfredo , Sayon-Orea Carmen , de la Fuente-Arrillaga Carmen , Martinez-Gonzalez Miguel Angel , Bes-Rastrollo Maira
Published: February 2015

Polychlorinated biphenyls are persistent organic pollutants that are consumed because of their bioaccumulation through the food chain. Evidence from different sources suggests a positive association between polychlorinated biphenyls exposure and the incidence of hypertension. However, no previous prospective study has investigated this potential relationship in adults. We prospectively assessed the association between dietary intake of polychlorinated biphenyls and the incidence of hypertension in a large cohort. The Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra project is a Spanish cohort of university graduates, most of them health professionals. We included 14521 participants, initially free of hypertension, who were followed-up for a median of 8.3 years. Dietary intake of polychlorinated biphenyls was assessed at baseline through a previously validated 136-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The published concentration levels of polychlorinated biphenyls measured in samples of food consumed in Spain were used to estimate dietary intake. Multivariable Cox regression models were fitted to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence interval for incident hypertension. During follow-up, 1497 incident cases of medically diagnosed hypertension were identified. After adjusting for total energy intake and for potential confounders, participants in the fifth quintile of total polychlorinated biphenyls intake were at higher risk of developing hypertension (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.43 [95% confidence interval, 1.09–1.88;
P
for trend 0.017]) compared with those in the first quintile. In this Mediterranean cohort, dietary intake of polychlorinated biphenyls, estimated using a food frequency questionnaire, was associated with a higher risk of developing hypertension during follow-up. Nevertheless, further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our results.
Influence of Diagnostic Criteria on the Interpretation of Adrenal Vein Sampling
Authors: Lethielleux Gaëlle , Amar Laurence , Raynaud Alain , Plouin Pierre-François , Steichen Olivier
Published: February 2015

Guidelines promote the use of adrenal vein sampling (AVS) to document lateralized aldosterone hypersecretion in primary aldosteronism. However, there are large discrepancies between institutions in the criteria used to interpret its results. This study evaluates the consequences of these differences on the classification and management of patients. The results of all 537 AVS procedures performed between January 2001 and July 2010 in our institution were interpreted with 4 diagnostic criteria used in experienced institutions where AVS is performed without cosyntropin (Brisbane, Padua, Paris, and Turin) and with criteria proposed by a recent consensus statement. AVS procedures were classified as unsuccessful, lateralized, or not lateralized according to each set of criteria. Almost 5× more AVS procedures were classified as unsuccessful with the strictest criteria than with the least strict criteria (18% versus 4%, respectively). Similarly, over 2× more AVS procedures were classified as lateralized with the least stringent criteria than with the most stringent criteria (60% versus 26%, respectively). Multiple samples were available from ≥1 side for 155 AVS procedures. These procedures were classified differently by ≥2 right–left sample pairs in 12% to 20% of cases. Thus, different sets of criteria used to interpret AVS in experienced institutions translate into heterogeneous classifications and hence management decisions, for patients with primary aldosteronism. Defining the most appropriate procedures and diagnostic criteria is needed for AVS to achieve optimal performance and fully justify its status as a gold standard.
Age-Related Difference in the Sleep Pressure-Lowering Effect Between an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker and a Calcium Channel Blocker in Asian Hypertensives
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Hoshide Satoshi
Published: February 2015

Sleep blood pressure (BP), which is partly determined by salt sensitivity and intake, is an important cardiovascular risk in hypertensives. However, there have been no studies on age-related differences in the sleep BP–lowering effect between angiotensin II receptor blockers and calcium channel blockers in Asians. Azilsartan Circadian and Sleep Pressure—the 1st Study was a multicenter, randomized, open-label, 2-parallel-group study conducted to compare the efficacy of 8-week oral treatment with an angiotensin II receptor blocker (azilsartan 20 mg) or a calcium channel blocker (amlodipine 5 mg) on sleep BP as evaluated by ambulatory BP monitoring. Among the overall population, amlodipine treatment achieved significantly greater reduction in sleep BP, awake BP, and 24-hour BP than azilsartan treatment. BP reduction by amlodipine was particularly pronounced in elderly hypertensive patients aged ≥60 years old. Among patients ≥60 years old, the amlodipine group had numerically, but not significantly, higher control rate of sleep BP compared with the azilsartan group. Similar results were found for awake BP and 24-hour BP. These results suggest a greater BP reduction/control by amlodipine compared with azilsartan and that reduction/control of BP by amlodipine was also more effective in the elderly population. As recommended in the American Society of Hypertension/The international Society of Hypertension and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines for differentiating treatment according to age, amlodipine should be one of the options for starting treatment in the elderly population.

Clinical Trial URL—

http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01762501

Clinical Trial ID—

NCT01762501
Computing an Average When Part of the Population Is Not Perceived
Authors: Pavlovskaya Marina , Soroker Nachum , Bonneh Yoram S. , Hochstein Shaul
Published: February 2015

The syndrome of unilateral spatial neglect (USN) after right-hemisphere damage is characterized by failure of salient left-sided stimuli to activate an orienting response, attract attention, and gain access to conscious awareness. The explicit failure processing left-sided visual information is not uniform, however, and patients seem to be more successful performing certain visual tasks than others. The source of this difference is still not clear. We focus on processing of visual scene statistical properties, asking whether, in computing the average size of an array of objects, USN patients give appropriate weight to objects on the left; disregard left-side objects entirely; or assign them an intermediate, lower weight, in accord with their tendency to neglect these objects. The interest in testing this question stems from a series of studies in healthy individuals that led Chong and Treisman [Chong, S. C., & Treisman, A. Statistical processing: Computing the average size in perceptual groups. Vision Research, 45, 891–900, 2005a; Chong, S. C., & Treisman, A. Attentional spread in the statistical processing of visual displays. Perception & Psychophysics, 67, 1–13, 2005b] to propose that processing of statistical properties (like the average size of visual scene elements) is carried out in parallel, with no need for serial allocation of focal attention to the different scene elements. Our results corroborate this suggestion, showing that objects in the left (“neglected”) hemispace contribute to average size computation, despite a marked imbalance in spatial distribution of attention, which leads to a reduced weight of left-side elements in the averaging computation. This finding sheds light on the nature of the impairment in USN and on basic mechanisms underlying statistical processing in vision. We confirm that statistical processing depends mainly on spread-attention mechanisms, which are largely spared in USN.
Object Affordance Modulates Visual Responses in the Macaque Medial Posterior Parietal Cortex
Authors: Breveglieri Rossella , Galletti Claudio , Bosco Annalisa , Gamberini Michela , Fattori Patrizia
Published: February 2015

Area V6A is a visuomotor area of the dorsomedial visual stream that contains cells modulated by object observation and by grip formation. As different objects have different shapes but also evoke different grips, the response selectivity during object presentation could reflect either the coding of object geometry or object affordances. To clarify this point, we here investigate neural responses of V6A cells when monkeys observed two objects with similar visual features but different contextual information, such as the evoked grip type. We demonstrate that many V6A cells respond to the visual presentation of objects and about 30% of them by the object affordance. Given that area V6A is an early stage in the visuomotor processes underlying grasping, these data suggest that V6A may participate in the computation of object affordances. These results add some elements in the recent literature about the role of the dorsal visual stream areas in object representation and contribute in elucidating the neural correlates of the extraction of action-relevant information from general object properties, in agreement with recent neuroimaging studies on humans showing that vision of graspable objects activates action coding in the dorsomedial visual steam.
Is the Study of Attitudes Sufficient for the Study of National Character? Putting the Work of Alex Inkeles in Context
Authors: Braun Jerome
Published: February 2015

The work of Alex Inkeles is emphasized as a high point in the study of national character. The value of the anthropological field once known as culture and personality, now called psychological anthropology, for the study of political psychology is also highlighted. In some ways his work has not been surpassed because the issues he dealt with to a large extent have been ignored since his time. The ultimate usefulness of his approach is for understanding the variability of personality traits in a population area, particularly one that falls within particular political boundaries, and how individual personalities can conform to or resist the pressures, particularly political pressures, that result. The relevance of this kind of analysis is for the understanding of “modal personality” as it exists within political boundaries, thus having relevance for political anthropology and political sociology, and how these cultural and political boundaries relate to each other.
Across the Continents: Engaging and Questioning Community
Authors: Thakrar Jayshree , Kenn Deborah , Minkley Gary
Published: February 2015

Academics study the concept of community as a dynamic force and, increasingly, universities have become researchers, partners, and participants in community engagement. What is surprising is the lack of a definitional framework for the word “community”, and perhaps due to the use (one might say overuse) of the term in common parlance, no one questions what we mean by community.

To engage a discussion without questioning what community means would be insufficient, if not presumptuous. Our goal is to explore. Equally presumptuous would be to define the dynamic, fluid, transforming concept of community. We aim to plumb the wisdom of our colleagues, community partners, students and mentors to bring meaning to the word community in all its richness and resilience.
Daemonorops komsaryi (Arecaceae)—a new rattan from the Bird’s Head Peninsula, Indonesian New Guinea
Authors: Maturbongs Rudi A. , DRANSFIELD J. , MOGEA J. P.
Published: February 2015

Daemonorops komsaryi (Arecaceae), a new species of rattan from the Bird’s Head Peninsula in West Papua, Indonesia, is described and illustrated. This species closely resembles D. calapparia, but is distinguished by having more than 60 leaflets on each side of the leaf rachis, and in having slender, rigid, long blackish-brown spines and long petioles.
A new Campylocentrum (Vandeae; Epidendroideae; Orchidaceae) from submontane Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil
Authors: Pessoa Edlley , Alves Marccus
Published: February 2015

A new species of Campylocentrum with reduced stems, small conduplicate leaves and long inflorescences is described from submontane Atlantic forest of Pernambuco state, northeastern Brazil. It is related to C. hirtellum, but differs by having a pedicellate ovary and base of the perianth both slightly papillate, smaller sepals, mid-lobe of the lip less than three times longer than the lateral lobes, lip 5-nerved, spur slightly longer than the pedicellate ovary and a glabrous capsule. It is illustrated and its affinities with allied species are also discussed.
Larval development of the land hermit crab Coenobita violascens Heller, 1862 (Decapoda, Anomura, Coenobitidae) described from laboratory-reared materia
Authors: KATO SAORI , HAMASAKI KATSUYUKI , DAN SHIGEKI , KITADA SHUICHI
Published: February 2015

The zoeal and the megalopal stages of the land hermit crab Coenobita violascens Heller, 1862 are described and illustrated from laboratory-reared material, and compared with larvae of nine other described coenobitid species. The larvae developed through four planktonic zoeal stages to the megalopal stage. Coenobita violascens had characteristics of zoeal pleomeres and megalopal antennules typical of those found in other Coenobita species, excluding C. brevimanus.
Revision of the genus Stenichnaphes Franz in New Zealand (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: February 2015

Three species of Stenichnaphes Franz were described from New Zealand: St. urbanus Franz (type species of the genus), St. peloriensis Franz and St. newtoni Franz, but the two former names were later synonymized. Basing on detailed morphological study, St. peloriensis is reinstated as a separate species, and St. newtoni is transferred to Scydmaenilla King, within Zeanilla subg. n., resulting in Scydmaenilla (Zeanilla) newtoni comb. n. All three species are redescribed, a previously unknown aedeagus of St. peloriensis is illustrated, and details of morphological structures of St. urbanus and Sc. newtoni are presented.
A Low Mach Number Model for Moist Atmospheric Flows
Authors: Duarte Max , Almgren Ann S. , Bell John B.
Published: February 2015

A low Mach number model for moist atmospheric flows is introduced that accurately incorporates reversible moist processes in flows whose features of interest occur on advective rather than acoustic time scales. Total water is used as a prognostic variable, so that water vapor and liquid water are diagnostically recovered as needed from an exact Clausius–Clapeyron formula for moist thermodynamics. Low Mach number models can be computationally more efficient than a fully compressible model, but the low Mach number formulation introduces additional mathematical and computational complexity because of the divergence constraint imposed on the velocity field. Here, latent heat release is accounted for in the source term of the constraint by estimating the rate of phase change based on the time variation of saturated water vapor subject to the thermodynamic equilibrium constraint. The authors numerically assess the validity of the low Mach number approximation for moist atmospheric flows by contrasting the low Mach number solution to reference solutions computed with a fully compressible formulation for a variety of test problems.
Applications of a Moist Nonhydrostatic Formulation of the Spectral Energy Budget to Baroclinic Waves. Part I: The Lower-Stratospheric Energy Spectra
Authors: Peng Jun , Zhang Lifeng , Guan Jiping
Published: February 2015

The authors investigate the mesoscale dynamics that produce the lower-stratospheric energy spectra in idealized moist baroclinic waves, using the moist nonhydrostatic formulation of spectral energy budget of kinetic energy and available potential energy by J. Peng et al. The inclusion of moist processes energizes the lower-stratospheric mesoscale, helping to close the gap between observed and simulated energy spectra. In dry baroclinic waves, the lower-stratospheric mesoscale is mainly forced by weak downscale cascades of both horizontal kinetic energy (HKE) and available potential energy (APE) and by a weak conversion of APE to HKE. At wavelengths less than 1000 km, the pressure vertical flux divergence also has a significant positive contribution to the HKE; however, this positive contribution is largely counteracted by the negative HKE vertical flux divergence. In moist baroclinic waves, the lower-stratospheric mesoscale HKE is mainly generated by the pressure and HKE vertical flux divergences. This additional HKE is partly converted to APE and partly removed by diffusion. Another negative contribution to the mesoscale HKE is from the forcing of a visible upscale HKE cascade. Besides the conversion of HKE, however, the three-dimensional divergence also has a significant positive contribution to the mesoscale APE. With these two direct APE sources, the lower-stratospheric mesoscale also undergoes a much stronger upscale APE cascade. These results suggest that both downscale and upscale cascades through the mesoscale are permitted in the real atmosphere and the direct forcing of the mesoscale is available to feed the upscale energy cascade.
Between enlightened pragmatism and censorship resistance: Memorie della vita e delle peregrinazioni del fiorentino Filippo Mazzei
Authors: Heyer-Caput Margherita
Published: February 2015

A multi-faceted personality of the European Enlightenment and American Independence, Filippo Mazzei (1730–1816) retraces his wanderings between the Old and the New Worlds in his Memorie, written from 1810 to 1813. This paper argues that the apparent lack of theoretical depth and rhetorical strength of Mazzei’s Memorie represents rather the narrator’s ironic, pragmatic strategy of resistance to various forms of censorship, which he experienced in particular through his interactions with the Tribunal of the Inquisition. We will examine two specific episodes of the Memorie through the lens of Wilhelm Dilthey’s philosophical notion of Erlebnis or ‘lived experience.’ From the perspective of Erlebnis and the inherent interrelation between lived experience, understanding and expression articulated in Dilthey’s The Formation of the Historical World in the Human Sciences of 1910, Mazzei’s autobiographical narrative emerges as a hermeneutic strategy of resistance that weaves together History and histories, universality and individuality.
Factors affecting outcome of treatment of chronic hepatitis C: result of an open label study from eastern India
Authors: Ray Gautam
Published: February 2015

Background

Standard treatment of hepatitis C involves the use of pegylated interferon (PEGIFN) and ribavirin but directly acting antiviral agents (DAA) with seemingly greater efficacy have now appeared on the market. Thus closer detail needs to be given to optimise the use of the former.

Methods

Fifty-two chronic hepatitis C patients (Child class A) were administered PEGIFN and ribavirin in a prospective, open label study in standard dose and duration. Complete therapy was ensured for the best chance of achieving a sustained viral response (SVR) and delineating its controlling factors.

Results

Seventy-five percent had genotype 3 virus. Compensated cirrhosis was present in 38.5%. Response overall and in cirrhotics were 65.4% and 30%, respectively, without difference between genotypes 1 and 3. Non-cirrhotics had higher response in all groups, especially genotype 1 (83.3%). The factors associated with positive response were age less than 50 years, absence of cirrhosis and presence of risk factors for transmission.

Conclusion

Treatment outcome and factors affecting it are similar to studies from Europe and America.
Maxillomandibular Advancement and Tracheostomy for Morbidly Obese Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Camacho Macario , Teixeira Jeffrey , Abdullatif Jose , Acevedo Jason L. , Certal Victor , Capasso Robson , Powell Nelson B.
Published: February 2015

Objective

The objective of this study is to systematically review polysomnography data and sleepiness in morbidly obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥40 kg/m2) patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treated with either a maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) or a tracheostomy and to evaluate the outcomes.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library.

Review Methods

A search was performed from inception through April 8, 2014, in each database.

Results

Six maxillomandibular advancement studies (34 patients, age 42.42 ± 9.13 years, mean BMI 44.88 ± 4.28 kg/m2) and 6 tracheostomy studies (14 patients, age 52.21 ± 10.40 years, mean BMI 47.93 ± 7.55 kg/m2) reported individual patient data. The pre‐ and post‐MMA means ± SDs for apnea‐hypopnea indices were 86.18 ± 33.25/h and 9.16 ± 7.89/h (P <. 00001), and lowest oxygen saturations were 66.58% ± 16.41% and 87.03% ± 5.90% (P <. 00001), respectively. Sleepiness following MMA decreased in all 5 patients for whom it was reported. The pre‐ and posttracheostomy mean ± SD values for apnea indices were 64.43 ± 41.35/h and 1.73 ± 2.68/h (P =. 0086), oxygen desaturation indices were 69.20 ± 26.10/h and 41.38 ± 36.28/h (P =. 22), and lowest oxygen saturations were 55.17% ± 16.46% and 79.83% ± 4.36% (P =. 011), respectively. Two studies reported outcomes for Epworth Sleepiness Scale for 5 patients, with mean ± SD values of 18.80 ± 4.02 before tracheostomy and 2.80 ± 2.77 after tracheostomy (P =. 0034).

Conclusion

Data for MMA and tracheostomy as treatment for morbidly obese, adult OSA patients are significantly limited. We caution surgeons about drawing definitive conclusions from these limited studies; higher level studies are needed.
Influence of Defect Size and Localization on the Engagement of Reverse Hill-Sachs Lesions
Authors: Moroder Philipp , Runer Armin , Kraemer Manuel , Fierlbeck Johann , Niederberger Alfred , Cotofana Sebastian , Vasvari Imre , Hettegger Bernhard , Tauber Mark , Hurschler Christof , Resch Herbert
Published: February 2015

Background:

Reverse Hill-Sachs (RHS) lesions can cause recurrent posterior shoulder instability because of engagement with the posterior glenoid rim; however, the effect of defect size and localization have yet to be determined.

Hypothesis:

Both size and localization are critical for the engagement of an RHS defect with the posterior glenoid rim.

Study design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Ten RHS defects with predefined extent and localization were created through an anterolateral rotator cuff sparing approach in 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulder specimens using a custom-made saw guide. Computed tomography scans of all specimens were completed, and standardized measurements were performed to determine the size (alpha angle) and localization (beta angle) of the defect as well as a combination of both parameters (gamma angle). Internal rotation motions were imposed on the shoulder joint in different arm positions and with varying amount of posterior translation by means of a robot-assisted shoulder simulator. The association between engagement of the defects and the defined parameters (alpha, beta, and gamma angles) was analyzed.

Results:

In 0° of abduction, a cutoff value between engaging and nonengaging defects of 37.5° for the alpha angle (100% sensitivity; 75% specificity; area under the curve [AUC], 0.875; P = .055) and 36.5° for the beta angle (100% sensitivity; 25% specificity; AUC, 0.708; P = .286) was determined. The gamma angle showed the highest discriminatory power (AUC, 0.938; P = .025) with a cutoff value of 85.5° rendering 100% sensitivity and 75% specificity in the prediction of engagement. An increase in the applied posterior translation force decreased the degrees of internal rotation necessary before engagement occurred. No engagement occurred during internal rotation with the arm in 60° of abduction or 60° of flexion.

Conclusion:

The size and localization of RHS defects are both critical factors for engagement. The combination of both parameters in terms of the gamma angle measurement might be a helpful tool to identify defects prone to engagement.

Clinical Relevance:

Not only the size but also the localization is decisive for engagement of RHS defects. The standardized measurement of the gamma angle combines both factors and might be a helpful tool to identify defects prone to engagement warranting surgical treatment.
Accelerated environmental aging effects in structural integrity of licuri fiber reinforced plastics
Authors: Leão MA , Tinô SRL , Aquino EMF
Published: February 2015

The gradual replacement of conventional materials with composite materials has become a concern due to their response to adverse environmental conditions, such as ultraviolet radiation, high temperature, and humidity. In this context, composite laminate using ortho-terephthalic polyester resin as matrix, reinforced with two layers of unidirectional woven licuri fiber, was submitted to accelerated environmental aging in order to study the influence of environmental degradation on mechanical properties, morphology, and fracture characteristics. Age-related morphological degradation of composite laminate was studied based on microscopic analysis of the microstructure and mass loss. In general, the licuri fiber reinforced plastics exhibited certain advantages in its responses to environmental aging. These advantages are evident in behavior related to photo-oxidation and microstructure degradation. Losses were recorded in the mechanical properties of the aged laminate when compared to the original condition; however, the structural integrity was little affected.
An innovative national health care waste management system in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Toktobaev Nurjan , Emmanuel Jorge , Djumalieva Gulmira , Kravtsov Alexei , Schüth Tobias
Published: February 2015

A novel low-cost health care waste management system was implemented in all rural hospitals in Kyrgyzstan. The components of the Kyrgyz model include mechanical needle removers, segregation using autoclavable containers, safe transport and storage, autoclave treatment, documentation, recycling of sterilized plastic and metal parts, cement pits for anatomical waste, composting of garden wastes, training, equipment maintenance, and management by safety and quality committees. The gravity-displacement autoclaves were fitted with filters to remove pathogens from the air exhaust. Operating parameters for the autoclaves were determined by thermal and biological tests. A hospital survey showed an average 33% annual cost savings compared to previous costs for waste management. All general hospitals with >25 beds except in the capital Bishkek use the new system, corresponding to 67.3% of all hospital beds. The investment amounted to US$0.61 per capita covered. Acceptance of the new system by the staff, cost savings, revenues from recycled materials, documented improvements in occupational safety, capacity building, and institutionalization enhance the sustainability of the Kyrgyz health care waste management system.
Using the project management office to connect the dots between projects and strategy
Authors: Phan Jacqueline
Published: February 2015

Project management is recognized as an essential skill required for healthcare leadership and as a result, Project Management Offices (PMOs) in healthcare organizations have become commonplace. When PMOs are well suited and fit to their organization, they are being valued for their ability to support appropriate trade-offs between investments, capacity, and quality. This article provides an overview of healthcare PMOs and advocates for elevating the role of the healthcare PMO from a monitoring and reporting function to a leader and the engine for strategic change within an organization.
Hardwiring improvement to achieve exceptional outcomes
Authors: Tone Jody L. , Salonga Anna , Bennett Jocelyn , Strathern Lynne
Published: February 2015

This article will discuss the experiences of two organizations who have driven process improvement through frontline ownership using the National Health Services’ Releasing Time to Care (RTC) program. Through the implementation of RTC, frontline staff learn how to gather information from colleagues, stakeholders, and literature to design potential improvements.