bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-harm and suicidal acts: a suitable case for treatment of impulsivity-driven behaviour with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)
Authors: Tracy Derek K. , Shergill Sukhwinder S. , David Anthony S. , Fonagy Peter , Zaman Rashid , Downar Jonathan , Eliott Emma , Bhui Kamaldeep
Published: September 2015

Suicidal thinking, self-harm and suicidal acts are common, although determining their precise prevalence is complex. Epidemiological work has identified a number of associated demographic and clinical factors, though, with the exception of past acts of self-harm, these are non-specific and weak future predictors. There is a critical need shift focus from managing ‘suicidality-by-proxy’ through general mental health treatments, to better understand the neuropsychology and neurophysiology of such behaviour to guide targeted interventions. The model of the cognitive control of emotion (MCCE) offers such a paradigm, with an underlying pan-diagnostic pathophysiology of a hypoactive prefrontal cortex failing to suitably inhibit an overactive threat-responding limbic system. The result is a phenotype – from any number of causative gene-environment interactions – primed to impulsively self-harm. We argue that such neural dysconnectivity is open to potential therapeutic modification from repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). The current evidence base for this is undoubtedly extremely limited, but the societal and clinical burden self-harm and suicide pose warrants such investigation.
Improving quality of care among patients hospitalised with schizophrenia: a nationwide initiative
Authors: Jørgensen Mette , Mainz Jan , Svendsen Marie Louise , Nordentoft Merete , Voldsgaard Inge , Baandrup Lone , Bartels Paul , Johnsen Søren Paaske
Published: September 2015

Background

The effectiveness of systematic quality improvement initiatives in psychiatric care remains unclear.

Aims

To examine whether quality of care has changed following implementation of a systematic monitoring programme of hospital performance measures.

Method

In a nationwide population-based cohort study, we identified 14 228 patients admitted to psychiatric departments between 2004 and 2011 from The Danish Schizophrenia Registry. The registry systematically monitors the adherence to guideline recommended processes of care.

Results

The overall proportion of all relevant recommended processes of care increased from 64 to 76% between 2004 and 2011. The adherence to individual processes of care increased over time, including assessment of psychopathology using a diagnostic interview (relative risk (RR): 2.01, 95% CI: 1.51–2.68), contact with relatives (RR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.27–1.62), psychoeducation (RR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.19–1.48), psychiatric aftercare (RR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.11) and suicide risk assessment (RR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.21–1.42).

Conclusions

Quality of care improved from 2004 to 2011 among patients hospitalised with schizophrenia in Denmark.
Ethical considerations in placebo-controlled randomised clinical trials
Authors: Kaufman Kenneth R.
Published: September 2015

Ethical considerations in standard medical care and clinical research are underpinnings to quality medicine. Similarly, the placebo-controlled double-blind randomised clinical trial is the gold standard for medical research and fundamental to the development of evidence-based medicine. Researchers and clinicians are challenged by ethical concerns in the informed consent with a need to maximise understanding and minimise therapeutic misconception. This editorial expands on themes raised by Chen et al's article ‘Disclosing the Potential Impact of Placebo Controls in Antidepressant Trials' and serves as an invitation for further submissions to BJPsych Open on ethics, research design and informed consent.
Open Sesame: a new generation journal
Authors: Bhui Kamaldeep , Malhi Gin S. , Kaufman Kenneth R.
Published: September 2015

The Royal College of Psychiatrists welcomes you to its newest peer-reviewed research journal, British Journal of Psychiatry Open (BJPsych Open), which has been created to maximise the College's efforts to publish and disseminate the most exciting and progressive research in psychiatry and allied disciplines. BJPsych Open will maintain the same high quality standards established by the British Journal of Psychiatry (BJPsych). As an online journal without print restrictions, BJPsych Open will be able to publish many more excellent articles and article types not currently accommodated within BJPsych. The breadth of BJPsych Open is outlined in ‘What we publish’ and its strength is realised in our first issue, ‘Powerful papers'. As editors, we welcome both your submissions and comments as our new generation journal grows.
Atg9 is required for intraluminal vesicles in amphisomes and autolysosomes
Authors: Bader C. A. , Shandala T. , Ng Y. S. , Johnson I. R. D. , Brooks D. A.
Published: September 2015

Autophagy is an intracellular recycling and degradation process, which is important for energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, physiological stress response and organism development. During Drosophila development, autophagy is up-regulated in fat body and midgut cells, to control metabolic function and to enable tissue remodelling. Atg9 is the only transmembrane protein involved in the core autophagy machinery and is thought to have a role in autophagosome formation. During Drosophila development, Atg9 co-located with Atg8 autophagosomes, Rab11 endosomes and Lamp1 endosomes-lysosomes. RNAi silencing of Atg9 reduced both the number and the size of autophagosomes during development and caused morphological changes to amphisomes/autolysosomes. In control cells there was compartmentalised acidification corresponding to intraluminal Rab11/Lamp-1 vesicles, but in Atg9 depleted cells there were no intraluminal vesicles and the acidification was not compartmentalised. We concluded that Atg9 is required to form intraluminal vesicles and for localised acidification within amphisomes/autolysosomes, and consequently when depleted, reduced the capacity to degrade and remodel gut tissue during development.
Ultrafast Microwave Synthesis of Activated Carbon from Enteromorpha prolifera and Its Electrochemical Capacitive Behavior
Authors: Gai Yansong , Wang Longqiang , Gong Liangyu , Su Linghao , Shang Yuanyuan , Dong Fengying , Chen Ping , Xia Yun
Published: September 2015

The cost-effective activated carbons derived from Enteromorpha prolifera (E. prolifera) were obtained via a single-step, quick microwave irradiation method. The activated carbon (AC-4) obtained at the radiation power of 800 W and the ZnCl2/E. prolifera mass ratio of 4 shows the maximum specific capacitance of 214 F g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and offers a good capacitance retention of ca. 91.2% after 1000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1, suggesting its potential application in supercapacitors.
Case Report: "ADHD Trainer": the mobile application that enhances cognitive skills in ADHD patients
Authors: Ruiz-Manrique Gonzalo , Tajima-Pozo Kazuhiro , Montañes-Rada Francisco
Published: September 2015

We report the case of a 10 year old patient diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and comorbid video game addiction, who was treated with medication combined with a novel cognitive training method based on video games called TCT method. A great risk of developing video game or internet addiction has been reported in children, especially in children with ADHD. Despite this risk, we hypothesize that the good use of these new technologies might be useful to develop new methods of cognitive training. The cognitive areas in which a greater improvement was observed through the use of video games were visuospatial working memory and fine motor skills. TCT method is a cognitive training method that enhances cognitive skills such as attention, working memory, processing speed, calculation ability, reasoning, and visuomotor coordination. The purpose of reviewing this case is to highlight that regular cognitive computerized training in ADHD patients may improve some of their cognitive symptoms and might be helpful for treating video game addiction.
Emergency care within hospitals: can it be done more efficiently?
Authors: Borgert Marjon , Goossens Astrid , Adams Rob , Binnekade Jan , Dongelmans Dave
Published: September 2015

Introduction:

Cardiac Arrest Teams (CATs) are frequently activated by nurses when patients experience ‘false arrests’ (FAs). In those cases activation of the Rapid Response Team (RRT) might be more efficient. The authors determined the level of urgency of FAs to find a scope for improvement in efficiency within emergency care.

Methods:

CAT-activations for FAs in a university hospital from September 2009 to 2012 were retrospectively analysed and classified as urgent or less-urgent.

Results:

In 26% (107/405) the CAT was activated for FAs. Calls were classified as urgent in 43% (46/107). Less urgent calls comprised 57% (61/107) of the FAs, difference 14% (95%CI: 1% to 26%).

Conclusions:

A significant part of the CAT-activations for FAs were less urgent and an RRT-activation might be more efficient. To minimise the CAT-activations for FAs, nurses need to recognise early patients who clinically deteriorate. Therefore, nurses should use the Modified Early Warning Score correctly.
Empowering patients with diabetes
Authors: Meer Maggie
Published: September 2015

Maggie Meer, founder of this November's Diabetes Professional Care event and long-standing diabetes patient, gives her views on how nurses can capitalise on their pivotal role to empower patients with diabetes and improve self-management
The professional duty of candour
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: September 2015

Emeritus professor Alan Glasper, of the University of Southampton discusses the recently published report looking at the duty of health professionals to be open and honest with patients and people close to them
Acute oncology: a developing sub-specialty
Authors: Pugh Alison , Rogerson Helen , Cosh Helen , Hart Jane , Williams Hilary , Jenkins Christopher
Published: September 2015

Patients with cancer frequently present to hospital as an emergency admission acutely unwell. Patients can suffer from complications of the cancer itself, or significant adverse effects/toxicities related to their cancer therapy. Alternatively, the initial presentation of the malignancy may be through a hospital admission, and the cancer can frequently be widespread and with a poorer prognosis. Patients are often admitted under general physicians, away from their comprehensive cancer care centre or oncologists. Without specialist input or staff adhering to most appropriate pathways, the management of these complicated conditions may be difficult, with patients sometimes having unnecessary and painful investigations and prolonged hospital stays. To address these issues the concept of an acute oncology service has recently evolved. This is a developing sub-specialty that aims to improve the care of cancer patients presenting acutely to hospital at a devastating time in their lives. This article will explore the literature to describe the recent development of the acute oncology model, and consider different methods for the delivery of this service.
Enhanced recovery programme in robotic hysterectomy
Authors: Iavazzo Christos , Gkegkes Ioannis D.
Published: September 2015

The standard care for endometrial cancer includes total hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, peritoneal washings with or without bilateral pelvic and/or paraaortic lymph node dissection/sampling with or without omental biopsy or omentectomy. The aim of this narrative review is to present the advantages of robotic surgery in combination with the enhanced recovery programme to offer better care to patients with endometrial cancer. The authors argue that a well-organised service for robotic hysterectomy should be set up in all hospitals. As part of this, an enhanced recovery programme including the following elements should be implemented: patient education, preoperative carbohydrate drinks, spinal or local analgesia, goal-directed fluid therapy, early feeding and intensive early mobilisation. The enhanced recovery programme includes pre, intra and postoperative changes in patient management. A comprehensive enhanced recovery programme starting in the preoperative setting and extending through to the patient's discharge, combined with robotic approach, could lead to optimal care of patients with endometrial cancer.
Guidance about MERS for pilgrims
Authors: Umeed Margaret
Published: September 2015

Hajj will begin soon. Travellers are at risk of Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome, explains Margaret Umeed
Tips for vaccinating patients safely and correctly
Authors: Smith Tricia
Published: September 2015

Ensuring that vaccines are administered safely is everyone's priority, writes Tricia Smith
Política de remuneração de executivos: um estudo em empresas industriais brasileiras, estadunidenses e inglesas
Authors: Machado Débora Gomes , Beuren Ilse Maria
Published: September 2015

O estudo objetiva verificar como a política de remuneração de executivos, nas perspectivas de nível e estrutura, conforme a proposição de Murphy (1999), tem sido praticada por empresas industriais brasileiras, estadunidenses e inglesas, no período de 2007 a 2010. A coleta de dados foi documental e a amostra constituiu-se de 400 empresas industriais, sendo 30 brasileiras, 47 inglesas e 323 estadunidenses. Os resultados mostram que a remuneração dos executivos estadunidenses, quanto ao nível é quase três vezes maior do que a dos executivos brasileiros e ingleses. Quanto à estrutura da remuneração, também não se constatou semelhança na política de remuneração dos executivos brasileiros, estadunidenses e ingleses, sendo que grande parte da remuneração dos executivos estadunidenses é baseada em ações. Conclui-se que a política de remuneração de executivos praticada por empresas industriais brasileiras, estadunidenses e inglesas, no período de 2007 a 2010, não apresenta semelhanças nas perspectivas de nível e estrutura evidenciadas.
Diagnóstico sistêmico e participativo das comunidades do Médio Maracá – AP: preparação para inserção de energia elétrica alternativa no âmbito do programa "Luz para Todos"
Authors: Maduro-Abreu Alexandre , Brasil Jr Antônio César Pinho , Nascimento Elimar Pinheiro , Perafan Mireya Eugenia Valencia , Nascimento Jr Antônio
Published: September 2015

Diante do desafio da universalização da energia elétrica, o Estado demonstra o interesse em assumir a responsabilidade de investir em tecnologias que viabilizem a geração de eletricidade em comunidades isoladas e, concomitantemente, prepará-las para utilizar a energia de forma produtiva. Para isso, o Ministério de Minas e Energia - MME, juntamente com o Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico – CNPq, lançaram o Edital CT-Energ/MME/CNPq xxxxx. Em resposta a este Edital, elaborou-se e foi aprovado um projeto para se trabalhar com as comunidades do Médio Maracá, localizadas no Projeto de Assentamento Extrativista – PAE de Maracá, no município de Mazagão, no Estado do Amapá. O presente trabalho apresenta a metodologia Gestão Sistêmica e Participativa Local – GSPL, que foi formulada para apoiar a comunidade no processo de gestão local, a partir da inserção da energia, e que também orientou a execução do projeto. Assim como demonstra os resultados do diagnóstico realizado na comunidade e aponta as ações necessárias para: a) produzir bens e serviços que melhorem a qualidade de vida da população local, particularmente de sua renda familiar, b) a manutenção do funcionamento da tecnologia de suprimento; e c) a utilização da energia em atividades para o desenvolvimento social.
Praia, sol e mar: um mergulho na compreensão da orla marítima de João Pessoa (PB) como organização
Authors: Cavalcante Erica Dayane Chaves , Bispo Marcelo de Souza , Soares Lídia Cunha
Published: September 2015

Neste artigo a Orla Marítima de João Pessoa/PB foi analisada como uma organização resultado das suas práticas cotidianas e do seu Comitê Gestor (Projeto Orla - Governo Federal), tendo por organização um processo coletivo e dinâmico em torno de uma prática, que consente o seu reconhecimento e a manutenção social, considerando ainda as relações sociomateriais. Prática, de forma simplificada, como um conjunto de ações socialmente sustentadas. Houve a participação em reuniões do comitê gestor Orla; e na sequência, aconteceram visitas à Orla, isso no propósito de compreender a percepção de atores que utilizam este espaço e que possuem representação no referido comitê. Dentre os resultados, apontou-se como os cinco conceitos-chave da etnometodologia se comportam na Orla, exemplificando cada um. Constatou-se que o uso da Orla vai além do que é discutido no seu comitê gestor e enquanto organização social ela só é possível porque existe a interação sociomaterial.
ADEUS PAPEL, MARCA-TEXTOS, TESOURA E COLA: INOVANDO O PROCESSO DE ANÁLISE DE CONTEÚDO POR MEIO DO ATLAS.TI
Authors: Walter Silvana Anita , Bach Tatiana Marceda
Published: September 2015

O software Atlas.ti consiste em uma ferramenta para a análise de dados qualitativos que pode facilitar o gerenciamento e a interpretação desses dados. Entretanto, o emprego desse software tem sido bem menos frequente em estratégia, apesar da crescente utilização da análise de conteúdo nessa área. Este estudo objetivou apresentar, por meio de um exemplo, a aplicabilidade do software Atlas.ti na realização de análise de conteúdo temática na área de estratégia. O exemplo usado é o de uma pesquisa com dois escritórios de contabilidade de Curitiba, Paraná (PR), a cujos dirigentes se aplicou, como instrumento de coleta de dados, entrevista semiestruturada.  Empregou-se, com o auxílio do software Atlas.ti 5.0, análise de conteúdo do tipo temática a qual deixou perceptível que os dois escritórios possuem uma trajetória similar; caracterizam-se como familiares; possuem ou possuíam centralização de poder; realizaram inovações; não possuem planos formalizados; e a maior parte de suas estratégias é emergente. O exemplo apresentado permitiu apresentar o processo de codificação, a criação de notas de pesquisa e de comentários, o estabelecimento de relações entre os elementos analisados e o agrupamento e gerenciamento de tais elementos. Espera-se que este estudo contribua para o estímulo da utilização do software Atlas.ti e auxilie na melhoria da consistência e do aperfeiçoamento das pesquisas qualitativas por meio da facilidade de verificação empírica.
AVALIAÇÃO DA APRENDIZAGEM: UM ESTUDO COM BASE NAS PERCEPÇÕES DOS ALUNOS DO CURSO DE GRADUAÇÃO EM ADMINISTRAÇÃO
Authors: Silva Marianny Jessica De Brito , Ramos Raquel Souza
Published: September 2015

O artigo tem como objetivo identificar qual a percepção dos alunos do curso de graduação em Administração da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Campus Agreste, sobre as formas avaliativas aplicadas por seus professores. Adotou-se uma abordagem metodológica quantitativa, utilizando-se de um questionário para alcançar o objetivo proposto, apresentando como amostra da pesquisa 155 estudantes. Os dados coletados e analisados revelaram que os estudantes em questão apontam as funções didáticas e burocráticas como motivos pelos quais se realiza uma avaliação e reconhecem sua importância apenas para o discente, ao representar um indicativo de desempenho. A maioria afirma que os sentimentos em relação aos processos avaliativos variam de acordo com o tempo de estudo e a empatia na disciplina e que a relação de ensino-avaliação geralmente é positiva. O feedback da avaliação é prática comum para estes alunos, mas não há diversidade de instrumentos de avaliação e, os que são utilizados, destoam com aqueles instrumentos desejados pelos estudantes. Conclui-se que, com base na percepção do aluno, é possível desenvolver uma reflexão pluralizada sobre os processos de avaliação, conduzindo melhorias nas práticas educacionais e na formação e treinamento de professores universitários.
How ‘il caffé sospeso’ became ‘suspended coffee’: The neo-liberal re-‘invention of tradition’ from Bourdieu to Bourdieu
Authors: Buscemi Francesco
Published: September 2015

This article analyses the way in which il caffè sospeso, an old Italian tradition of giving needy people a free coffee, has become ‘suspended coffee’, a current trend in the United States. This study explains the Italian phenomenon through Bourdieu’s ‘classic’ theory linked to food as provider of social distinction, distance from reality and culinary capital. To explain the new American model, this article builds on Bourdieu’s later work on neo-liberalism. This double theoretical approach enables a double methodological approach. The old Italian practice is investigated through Bourdieu’s historical field analysis. The American, neo-liberal model is studied through political economy analysis of websites owned by the companies supporting suspended coffee. The results show that in Italy il caffè sospeso was an opportunity for the donor to gain social distinction thanks to distance from reality, not providing the poor with something more necessary than a coffee. In the United States, private companies have taken hold of this tradition and altered the old relationship between donor and receiver. Giving is no longer spontaneous. Companies advise/force their clients to donate and confer culinary capital to ‘elected’ customers on their websites, with texts aiming to advertise rather than to inform. In conclusion, neo-liberalism exploits old traditions for commercial reasons.
Consumed: Food in The Hunger Games
Authors: Parks Lori L. , Yamashiro Jennifer P.
Published: September 2015

In the futuristic dystopia of The Hunger Games, food divides rich and poor, empowered and oppressed, pure and putrid. It also provides a lens to analyse power and rebellion through theory, surveillance, and the art historical genre of memento mori. This article considers the following: How does food represent and enact power? How does food send moral and political messages? How does the government control and, in fact, author the lives of the citizens? How do Katniss’ rebellions reflect, represent and magnify the crisis of the state?
Head to head comparisons in performance of CD4 point-of-care assays: a Bayesian meta-analysis (2000–2013)
Authors: Wilkinson Samantha , Chiavegatti Tiago , Nauche Bénédicte , Joseph Lawrence , Pai Nitika Pant
Published: September 2015

Timely detection, staging, and treatment initiation are pertinent to controlling HIV infection. CD4+ cell-based point-of-care (POC) devices offer the potential to rapidly stage patients, and decide on initiating treatment, but a comparative evaluation of their performance has not yet been performed. With this in mind, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses. For the period January 2000 to April 2014, 19 databases were systematically searched, 6619 citations retrieved, and 25 articles selected. Diagnostic performance was compared across devices (i.e., PIMA, CyFlow, miniPOC, MBioCD4 System) and across specimens (i.e., capillary blood vs. venous blood). A Bayesian approach was used to meta-analyze the data. The primary outcome, the Bland–Altman (BA) mean bias (which represents agreement between cell counts from POC device and flow cytometry), was analyzed with a Bayesian hierarchical normal model. We performed a head-to-head comparison of two POC devices including the PIMA and PointCareNOW CD4. PIMA appears to perform better vs. PointCareNOW with venous samples (BA mean bias: –9.5 cells/μL; 95% CrI: –37.71 to 18.27, vs. 139.3 cells/μL; 95% CrI: –0.85 to 267.4, mean difference = 148.8, 95% CrI: 11.8, 285.8); importantly, PIMA performed well when used with capillary samples (BA mean bias: 2.2 cells/μL; 95% CrI: –19.32 to 23.6). Sufficient data were available to allow pooling of sensitivity and specificity data only at the 350 cells/μL cutoff. For PIMA device sensitivity 91.6 (84.7–95.5) and specificity was 94.8 (90.1–97.3), respectively. There were not sufficient data to allow comparisons between any other devices. PIMA device was comparable to flow cytometry. The estimated differences between the CD4+ cell counts of the device and the reference was small and best estimated in capillary blood specimens. As the evidence stands, the PointCareNOW device will need to improve prior to widespread use and more data on MBio and MiniPOC are needed. Findings inform implementation of PIMA and improvements in other CD4 POC device prior to recommending widespread use.
Genome Size, Leaf, Fruit and Seed Traits – Taxonomic Tools for Species Identification in the Genus Nasturtium R. Br.
Authors: Morozowska Maria , Czarna Aneta , Jędrzejczyk Iwona , Bocianowski Jan
Published: September 2015

Flow cytometry estimation of 2C nuclear DNA content of the examined Nasturtium species resulted in taxonomic identification of N. × sterile in eight new localities, N. microphyllum in four new localities and N. officinale in one new locality in western Poland. Scanning electron microscopy proved a few of the micromorphological traits of seeds and fruits (size and shape of cells on the fruit septum surface, their anticlinal walls; secondary sculpture on the outer periclinal walls of cells on the siliqua valve internal surface) to be of taxonomic importance.
Biomechanical effect of different femoral neck blade position on the fixation of intertrochanteric fracture: a finite element analysis
Authors: Lee Pei-Yuan , Lin Kun-Jhih , Wei Hung-Wen , Hu Jin-Jia , Chen Wen-Chuan , Tsai Cheng-Lun , Lin Kang-Ping
Published: September 2015

Medial migration or cutout of the neck helical blade has commonly occurred in the treatment of trochanteric fracture of the femur. The position of the helical blade within the femoral head is one of the influencing factors that cause the blade to perforate the intact joint surface; however, the ideal placement of the helical blade is not currently known. A finite element model of a femur/nail construct was utilized to analyze five possible blade positions in the femoral head. Normal strain at the fracture surface, the minimum principal strain in the cancellous bone, and the von Mises stress in the implant itself were calculated and compared between different blade positions. The results showed that a large area of normal compressive strain at the fracture surface was observed in the inferior and posterior blade positions. The volume of cancellous bone strained to yielding in the femoral head and neck was lower for the inferior and posterior positions, whereas it was the highest for the superior position. The inferior and posterior positions had lower von Mises stress in the implant itself. The inferior and posterior positions may be the ideal position for the intramedullary nail with a helical neck blade.
Measurement of dabigatran, rivaroxaban and apixaban in samples of plasma, serum and urine, under real life conditions. An international study
Authors: Harenberg Job , Du Shanshan , Wehling Martin , Zolfaghari Shabnam , Weiss Christel , Krämer Roland , Walenga Jeanine
Published: September 2015

The utility of measuring non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in plasma, serum and urine samples and with the point-of-care test (POCT) on urine samples should be analysed in an international laboratory study.

The study was performed to determine the inter-laboratory variance of data from two chromogenic assays each for the NOACs rivaroxaban, apixaban and dabigatran, and to analyse the sensitivity and specificity of the POCT assays for factor Xa- and thrombin inhibitors. Plasma, serum and urine samples were taken from six patients in each group on treatment with a NOAC.

The inter-laboratory variances, which can be identified best by the coefficient of variation, ranged from 46% to 59% for apixaban, 63% to 73% for rivaroxaban and 39% to 104% for dabigatran using plasma, serum or urine samples and two chromogenic assays for each NOAC. The concentrations were about 20% higher in serum compared to plasma samples for apixaban and rivaroxaban, and 60% lower for dabigatran. The concentration in urine samples was five-fold (apixaban), 15-fold (rivaroxaban) and 50-fold (dabigatran) higher. Sensitivity and specificity of POCT for apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran were all >94%.

The inter-laboratory study showed the feasibility of measurement of apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran in plasma, serum and urine samples of patients on treatment. Dabigatran was determined at far lower levels in serum compared to plasma samples. Concentrations of NOACs in urine were much higher compared to plasma. The POCT was highly sensitive and specific for all three NOACs.
The utility of clinical findings to predict laboratory values in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
Authors: So Jane , Young Elizabeth , Crnosija Natalie , Chappelle Joseph
Published: September 2015

Preeclampsia is the 2

A retrospective chart review of women who presented for evaluation of hypertension in pregnancy during 2010. Demographic information, medical history, symptoms, vital signs, and laboratory results were collected. Bivariate analysis was used to investigate associations between predictors and the outcome.

Of the 481 women in the sample, 22 were identified as having abnormal laboratory test results (4.6%). Women who reported right upper quadrant pain or tenderness had significantly increased likelihood of having laboratory abnormalities compared to those without the complaint.

Only a small percentage of women evaluated were determined to have abnormal laboratory findings, predominantly among women with severe preeclampsia. Right upper quadrant pain or tenderness was positively correlated with laboratory abnormalities. The restriction of laboratory analysis in women with clinical evidence of severe disease may be warranted – a broader study should, however, first be used to confirm our findings.
Clinical results of proton beam therapy for twenty older patients with esophageal cancer
Authors: Ono Takashi , Nakamura Tatsuya , Azami Yusuke , Yamaguchi Hisashi , Hayashi Yuichiro , Suzuki Motohisa , Hatayama Yoshiomi , Tsukiyama Iwao , Hareyama Masato , Kikuchi Yasuhiro , Nemoto Kenji
Published: September 2015

Background. In an aging society, increasing number of older patients are diagnosed with esophageal cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of proton beam therapy for older patients with esophageal cancer.

Patients and methods. Older patients (age: ≥ 65 years) newly diagnosed with esophageal cancer between January 2009 and June 2013 were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent either proton beam therapy alone or proton beam therapy with initial X-ray irradiation. Toxicities were evaluated using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0.

Results. Twenty patients were eligible for this study and all completed the treatment. The median age was 78 years (range: 65–89 years) and the median follow-up time was 26.5 months (range: 6–62 months). Seven patients had lymph node metastases and 10 had stage II/III cancer. The median dose of proton beam therapy was 72.6 Gy relative biological dose effectiveness (RBE) (range: 66–74.8 Gy [RBE]) for proton beam therapy alone and 33 Gy (RBE) (range: 30.8–39.6 Gy [RBE]; total dose range: 66.8–75.6 Gy [RBE]) for proton beam therapy with initial X-ray irradiation. The 2-year overall survival rate was 81.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 62.4%–100%), and the 2-year local control rate was 89.4% (95% CI: 75.5%–100%). Grade 2 or 3 toxicities occurred in some cases; however, no grade 4 or 5 toxicity was observed.

Conclusions. High-dose (66–75.6 Gy [RBE]) proton beam therapy without chemotherapy was an efficacious and safe treatment for older patients with esophageal cancer.
Age-Related Differences in Postural Control and Attentional Cost During Tasks Performed in a One-Legged Standing Posture
Authors: Ihira Hikaru , Makizako Hyuma , Mizumoto Atsushi , Makino Keitarou , Matsuyama Kiyoji , Furuna Taketo
Published: September 2015

Background and Purpose:

In dual-task situations, postural control is closely associated with attentional cost. Previous studies have reported age-related differences between attentional cost and postural control, but little is known about the association in conditions with a one-legged standing posture. The purpose of this study was to determine age-related differences in postural control and attentional cost while performing tasks at various difficulty levels in a one-legged standing posture.

Methods:

In total, 29 healthy older adults aged 64 to 78 years [15 males, 14 females, mean (SD) = 71.0 (3.8) years] and 29 healthy young adults aged 20 to 26 years [14 males, 15 females, mean (SD) = 22.5 (1.5) years] participated in this study. We measured the reaction time, trunk accelerations, and lower limb muscle activity under 3 different one-legged standing conditions—on a firm surface, on a soft surface with a urethane mat, and on a softer more unstable surface with 2 piled urethane mats. Reaction time as an indication of attentional cost was measured by pressing a handheld button as quickly as possible in response to an auditory stimulus. A 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was performed to examine the differences between the 3 task conditions and the 2 age groups for each outcome.

Results and Discussion:

Trunk accelerations showed a statistically significant group-by-condition interaction in the anteroposterior (F = 9.1, P < .05), mediolateral (F = 9.9, P < .05), and vertical (F = 9.3, P < .05) directions. Muscle activity did not show a statistically significant group-by-condition interaction, but there was a significant main effect of condition in the tibialis anterior muscle (F = 33.1, P < .01) and medial gastrocnemius muscle (F = 14.7, P < .01) in young adults and the tibialis anterior muscle (F = 24.8, P < .01) and medial gastrocnemius muscle (F = 10.8, P < .01) in older adults. In addition, there was a statistically significant interaction in reaction time (F = 8.2, P < .05) for group-by-condition.

Conclusions:

The study results confirmed that reaction times in older adults are more prolonged than young adults in the same challenging postural control condition.
TERT promoter mutations in thyroid cancer: a report from a Middle Eastern population
Authors: Qasem Ebtesam , Murugan Avaniyapuram Kannan , Al-Hindi Hindi , Xing Mingzhao , Almohanna Mai , Alswailem Meshael , Alzahrani Ali S
Published: September 2015

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations C228T and C250T have recently been described in follicular cell-derived thyroid cancer (TC) in patients from North America and Europe. In this study, we explored whether these findings could be replicated in patients from a different ethnic group. We screened 17 benign thyroid adenomas and 265 TC samples from patients in the Middle East for these mutations by PCR and direct sequencing using DNA isolated from paraffin-embedded tumor tissues. None of the 17 benign adenomas harbored TERT promoter mutations. Of 265 TC, 34 (12.8%) harbored TERT promoter mutations, including 10/153 (6.5%) conventional papillary TC (CPTC), 8/57 (14.0%) follicular variant PTC, 9/30 (30%) tall cell variant PTC, 1/3 (30%) Hurthle cell thyroid cancer (HTC), 1/5 (20%) follicular TC, and 5/13 (38.5%) poorly differentiated TC. C250T mutation was present in only 6/265 (2.3%) cases, while C228T mutation was present in a total of 28/265 (10.6%) cases. These two mutations were mutually exclusive. TERT promoter mutations were significantly more common in older (≥45 years) than younger patients and were associated with larger tumour size, vascular invasion, higher TNM stage (stage III and IV), BRAFV600E mutation and persistent/recurrent disease at 6–12 months after initial treatment and at the last follow up. These associations were stronger in non-CPTC. Thus, this study on a large cohort of TC patients from Middle East demonstrates that TERT promoter mutations are relatively common, especially in the non-CPTC, and are associated with more aggressive histopathological features, BRAFV600E mutation, and disease persistence/recurrence than the WT TERT.
Fannia fusconotata and Fannia sanihue (Diptera: Fanniidae): first records in Uruguay and distribution extension
Authors: Remedios-De León Mónica , Aballay Fernando Hernán , Domínguez M. Cecilia , González-Vainer Patricia
Published: September 2015

Fannia fusconotata (Rondani, 1868) and Fannia sanihue Domínguez & Aballay, 2008 are recorded for the first time in Uruguay, extending the Neotropical distribution of these taxa eastward in South America. The specimens were collected using modified Malaise traps located above pig carcasses in Pando, Canelones, Uruguay, from February to April 2011. This contribution is a part of the first study to be undertaken into forensic entomology in Uruguay.
New records, range extensions and updated distribution of two gymnophthalmid lizards from the Caribbean Region, Colombia
Authors: Meza-Joya Fabio Leonardo , Ramos-Pallares Eliana
Published: September 2015

In Colombia, detailed knowledge of the geographic distribution of gymnophthalmid lizards is scarce. This paper presents the first confirmed records of Leposoma rugiceps and provides additional records of Gymnophthalmus speciosus from Department of La Guajira, in the Colombian Caribbean Region. These records extend the geographical distribution of both species and support their wide distribution in the lowlands of north of Colombia. Furthermore, we provide an updated distribution map with known occurrences of these species in Colombia.
Malformations of the cranio-cervical junction: basilar impression
Authors: Bertullo Gonzalo
Published: September 2015

Cranio-cervical junction abnormalities are a rare combination of congenital or acquired malformations, linked to the occipital-cervical region that often leads to severe neurological disorders. There is a great clinical polymorphism and high variability in the natural history of these conditions, which determines therapeutic outcomes difficult to assess in a global sense. The authors of this report give an account of the case of malformative bone complex of cranio-cervical junction and carry out a non-systematic search of the literature.
Assessing the Thai Paddy Pledging Policy: Its Performance and Social Costs
Authors: Poapongsakorn Nipon , Pantakua Kamphol
Published: September 2015

The paper assesses the benefits and costs of the Thai paddy pledging policy between October 2011 and May 2014. The scheme, which purchased 52 percent of total paddy production from the farmers, was to date the largest intervention by the government in the rice market. Its total costs were 984 billion baht (or 41% of the 2013 fiscal budget). The government also became the largest rice seller, trying unsuccessfully to corner the export market by withholding large supplies of rice from the market. Thai rice export dropped sharply as the export prices of Thai rice were much higher than those of India and Vietnam which toppled Thailand from the world largest exporter position. The attempt to release rice through the channel of Government‐to‐government sales failed. But the government refused to admit its failure and kept all rice sale information in secret. In fact, most of the claimed G‐to‐G sales were sold to the connected traders who in turn sold them in the domestic market.

The policy directly benefited at least one third of the rice farmers who sold rice to the government. Other non‐participating farmers also benefited from the higher domestic price. Yet most of the benefits went to the medium‐ and large‐scale farmers. Thai consumers also gained because the government maintained a smooth flow of rice in the domestic market at the prices prevailing at the end of the previous government, despite higher paddy price. The study also finds that there was corruption in the government rice sale as it sold rice to a few connected traders at the prices below the market prices. That explained why the fiscal loss is estimated at 595 billion baht to 885 billion baht, depending on the time it will take to dispose 18 million tons of rice in the government stock. The policy also creates other social costs. Thus the social costs exceeded its benefits.
Family Farms and Investment Capacities
Authors: Roudart Laurence , Dave Benoît
Published: September 2015

This article aims to shed light on the conditions under which family farmers in developing countries could be able to invest and develop. This question is of particular interest in the Office du Niger area in Mali because, since 2006, the Malian government has been seeking to attract new investors there, under the assumption that they will be more able than family farmers to develop agriculture. On the other hand, the main union of family farmers in this area promotes investment by family farmers themselves. Based on the farming system concept, a thorough field survey was carried out, combining quantitative and qualitative methods for data collection and processing. The data analysis shows that access to properly irrigated land, and access to short and medium‐term credit to purchase inputs and equipment, are currently the main factors limiting farm productivity and investment capacities. The study suggests that for agriculture to develop in Mali, the peasant way is fully credible.
Size‐ and condition‐dependent predation: a seabird disproportionately targets substandard individual juvenile salmon
Authors: Tucker Strahan , Mark Hipfner J. , Trudel Marc
Published: September 2015

Selection of prey that are small and in poor body condition is a widespread phenomenon in terrestrial predator–prey systems and may benefit prey populations by removing substandard individuals. Similar selection is widely assumed to operate in aquatic systems. Indeed, size‐selective predation is a longstanding and central tenet of aquatic food web theory. However, it is not known if aquatic predators select prey based on their condition or state, compared to their size. Surprisingly, no comparable information is available for marine systems because it is exceedingly difficult to make direct observations in this realm. Thus the role of body condition in regulating susceptibility to predation remains a black box in the marine environment. Here we have exploited an ideal model system to evaluate selective predation on pelagic marine fish: comparing characteristics (fork length, mass corrected for fork length) of fresh, whole, intact juvenile Pacific salmon delivered by a seabird to its single nestling with salmon collected concurrently in coastal trawl surveys. Three species of juvenile salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) are consumed by provisioning Rhinoceros Auklets (Cerorhinca monocerata); an abundant, colonial, pursuit‐diving seabird. Samples were collected from multiple colonies and fisheries surveys in coastal British Columbia in two years. As predicted, Auklets preyed on small individuals in poor condition and consistently selected them at levels higher than their relative availability. This is the first study to provide direct evidence for both size‐ and condition‐selective predation on marine fish in the wild. We anticipate that our results will be a starting point in evaluating how selective predation may structure or influence marine fish populations and bridges a fundamental incongruity between ecological theory and application; although “bigger is better” is considered a fundamental tenet of marine food webs, marine predators are often assumed to consume indiscriminately.
Evaluation Of Damage Mechanisms In Tight Gas Reservoirs: Integration Of Laboratory Experiments And Field Data With Numerical Simulation
Authors: Bahrami Nick , Dousi Niek , Lashari Arshad
Published: September 2015

Tight gas reservoirs represent a significant portion of natural gas reservoirs worldwide. Production at economical rates from tight gas reservoirs in general is very challenging not only due to the very low intrinsic permeability but also as a consequence of several different forms of formation damage that can occur during drilling, completion, stimulation, and production operations. Tight gas reservoirs generally do not produce gas at commercial rates, unless the well is completed using advanced technologies and efficiently stimulated.

Well productivity in tight gas reservoirs is largely controlled by formation damage mechanisms such as liquid invasion damage into the low permeability rock matrix that reduces the near wellbore permeability as a result of temporary or permanent trapping of liquid inside the porous media. In many cases of tight gas reservoirs, the key factors that control well productivity and formation damage mechanisms are not well understood, since it is challenging to characterise them in tight formations.

This paper presents evaluation of damage mechanisms and characterization of dynamic parameters in tight gas reservoirs and proposes the methods that can provide improved well productivity by minimizing damage to the tight formation. Numerical reservoir simulation is integrated with tight gas field data analysis and core flooding experiments to better understand the effect of different damage mechanisms on well productivity in order to propose the possible remedial strategies that can help achieve viable gas production rates from tight gas reservoirs.
Influence of Clay Content and Type on Oil Recovery Under Low Salinity Waterflooding in North Sea Reservoirs
Authors: Law S. , McDonald A. , Fellows S. , Reed J. , Sutcliffe P. G.
Published: September 2015

A high level screening has been performed of UKCS oil fields to identify the most likely LSWF candidates utilising screening criteria with a focus on kaolinite clay content. The screening results suggest that approximately 57% of the fields have 6 % or higher kaolinite clay content. Of these fields 26 % were water-wet and 74 % were mixed-wet in terms of wettability. This suggests that a significant number of fields would fall within the eligibility for consideration of LSWF EOR although their suitability will depend on field maturity (current recovery factor and facilities constraints). The difficulty in applying LSWF in tertiary mode unlike secondary mode, is in obtaining a reasonable prediction of how the reservoir is likely to respond. The question of core availability and quality has been raised in a number of studies in terms of LSWF and electrical property testing. We propose a methodology which can be applied to compensate for the lack of usable core based on petrophysical log response. The logs can be utilised to determine the clay types present (including fractions) from which the cation exchange capacity can be calculated. Selected compositions from anonymised field data from core was used to provide quality control the log derived values. The most likely recovery mechanism, multi-component ion exchange (MIE), requires the input of key electrical properties into the models (cation exchange capacity, reactive surface area, activation energy and mineral fraction) in order to predict the response of the reservoir to LSWF. In this study the effect of clay content on the reservoir response was modelled indirectly by altering the cation exchange capacity relative to the clay mineral fraction present in the reservoir to determine its effect. Utilising a mechanistic modelling approach, homogeneous Cartesian models were run in the compositional finite difference reservoir simulator GEM to assess the impact on oil recovery. The simulated coreflood tests reveal that under secondary LSWF recovery was 68.4 % compared to 63.6 % for formation water (high salinity). The conservative nature of the relative permeability curves limited the incremental recovery. An analysis of the tertiary recovery utilising a coreflood based on Fjelde et al. (2012) revealed that cation exchange impacts the predicted recovery by up to 2.65 % OOIP for the range of 5 - 30 % clay content. Given that the recovery under tertiary conditions is considered in the literature to be between 6 and 12 %, this is significant and highlights that if idealised data is selected rather than real field data, then significant potential exists to under or over-predict the incremental recovery.