bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The end(s) of economics and economic sociology
Authors: Ross Sandy
Published: August 2014

The global financial crisis has been called a crisis for not only economies but economic knowledge and the discipline as a whole. We may be forgiven for wanting to take economists to task, but are they the only ones who must think carefully about the products of their research? This essay reviews two books written in response to recent economic turbulence: Farewell to Growth by Serge Latouche and The End of Finance by Massimo Amato and Luca Fantacci. The former is an impassioned plea for social change targeted at activists. The latter is a magisterial work of economic history that explores the roots of repeated economic collapses over previous centuries, questioning the nature of money and the importance of liquidity to market societies. Both books are interesting reads, but though Latouche’s book would be very useful in classrooms, it is Amato and Fantacci’s text that offers intriguing possibilities for sociologists of money, and raises troubling questions for economic sociologists more generally.
The theory of love and the theory of society: Remarks on the oeuvre of Niklas Luhmann
Authors: Morgner Christian
Published: August 2014

Niklas Luhmann’s work has been gaining popularity in the Anglophone world. The reader who is unfamiliar with the overall development of Luhmann’s version of system theory is introduced in this review essay to the central theoretical changes in Luhmann’s version by way of the author’s elaborations on love. The first part of this review introduces Luhmann’s reduction of the complexity paradigm, and discusses the importance of one’s particular decisions regarding communication and love. The second part highlights Luhmann’s concept of the self-referential system and the semantics of love. The final section of this review introduces the concept of observation in Luhmann’s work, and focuses on the paradoxical nature of the observational mode of love. This review demonstrates how Luhmann’s thinking provides abundant concepts and terms for describing the social phenomenon of love in our everyday lives. One might not become a better lover by reading this review, but it is hoped that people might be able to broaden their understanding of love from the perspective of system theory.
Calibration of Risk Prediction Models
Authors: Van Calster Ben , Vickers Andrew J.
Published: August 2014

Decision-analytic measures to assess clinical utility of prediction models and diagnostic tests incorporate the relative clinical consequences of true and false positives without the need for external information such as monetary costs. Net Benefit is a commonly used metric that weights the relative consequences in terms of the risk threshold at which a patient would opt for treatment. Theoretical results demonstrate that clinical utility is affected by a model’;s calibration, the extent to which estimated risks correspond to observed event rates. We analyzed the effects of different types of miscalibration on Net Benefit and investigated whether and under what circumstances miscalibration can make a model clinically harmful. Clinical harm is defined as a lower Net Benefit compared with classifying all patients as positive or negative by default. We used simulated data to investigate the effect of overestimation, underestimation, overfitting (estimated risks too extreme), and underfitting (estimated risks too close to baseline risk) on Net Benefit for different choices of the risk threshold. In accordance with theory, we observed that miscalibration always reduced Net Benefit. Harm was sometimes observed when models underestimated risk at a threshold below the event rate (as in underestimation and overfitting) or overestimated risk at a threshold above event rate (as in overestimation and overfitting). Underfitting never resulted in a harmful model. The impact of miscalibration decreased with increasing discrimination. Net Benefit was less sensitive to miscalibration for risk thresholds close to the event rate than for other thresholds. We illustrate these findings with examples from the literature and with a case study on testicular cancer diagnosis. Our findings strengthen the importance of obtaining calibrated risk models.
Examining the Role of Familial Support During Prison and After Release on Post-Incarceration Mental Health
Authors: Wallace Danielle , Fahmy Chantal , Cotton Lindsy , Jimmons Charis , McKay Rachel , Stoffer Sidney , Syed Sarah
Published: August 2014

A significant number of prisoners experience mental health problems, and adequate social support is one way that facilitates better mental health. Yet, by being incarcerated, social support, particularly family support, is likely to be strained or even negative. In this study, we examine whether familial support—either positive or negative—in-prison and after release affects mental health outcomes post-release. Using the Serious and Violent Offender Reentry Initiative (SVORI) dataset, we regress post-release mental health on in-prison familial support, post-incarceration familial support, and changes in familial support. We find that while in-prison family support does not affect mental health, post-release familial support does. Also, experiencing an increase in negative familial support is associated with lower post-incarceration mental health. We conclude with a discussion of policies which may facilitate better familial support environments.
Prescribing Some Criminological Theory
Authors: Maahs Jeffrey R. , Weidner Robert R. , Smith Ryan
Published: August 2014

Recent evidence indicates that the illicit use of prescription stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin is common across college campuses and in professions (e.g., trucking) where staying awake and focused is valued. Existing research has established use patterns and explored respondents’ reasons for using these stimulants. Less is known, however, about whether or how well mainstream criminological theory explains this type of illegal activity. This article reports results from a survey ( N = 484) of college students from a Midwestern university, examining whether measures of strain, self-control, and social learning predict the illicit use of prescription stimulants. Measures from social learning and social control theories were significant predictors of illicit use of prescription stimulants, whereas the measure of academic strain was not; the strongest predictor of illicit use of prescription stimulants was general deviance. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Chronic Leg Pain in Athletes
Authors: Burrus M. Tyrrell , Werner Brian C. , Starman Jim S. , Gwathmey F. Winston , Carson Eric W. , Wilder Robert P. , Diduch David R.
Published: August 2014

Chronic leg pain is commonly treated by orthopaedic surgeons who take care of athletes. The sources are varied and include the more commonly encountered medial tibial stress syndrome, chronic exertional compartment syndrome, stress fracture, popliteal artery entrapment syndrome, nerve entrapment, Achilles tightness, deep vein thrombosis, and complex regional pain syndrome. Owing to overlapping physical examination findings, an assortment of imaging and other diagnostic modalities are employed to distinguish among the diagnoses to guide the appropriate management. Although most of these chronic problems are treated nonsurgically, some patients require operative intervention. For each condition listed above, the pathophysiology, diagnosis, management option, and outcomes are discussed in turn.
Clinical Pertinence Metric Enables Hypothesis-Independent Genome-Phenome Analysis for Neurologic Diagnosis
Authors: Segal Michael M. , Abdellateef Mostafa , El-Hattab Ayman W. , Hilbush Brian S. , De La Vega Francisco M. , Tromp Gerard , Williams Marc S. , Betensky Rebecca A. , Gleeson Joseph
Published: August 2014

We describe an “integrated genome-phenome analysis” that combines both genomic sequence data and clinical information for genomic diagnosis. It is novel in that it uses robust diagnostic decision support and combines the clinical differential diagnosis and the genomic variants using a “pertinence” metric. This allows the analysis to be hypothesis-independent, not requiring assumptions about mode of inheritance, number of genes involved, or which clinical findings are most relevant. Using 20 genomic trios with neurologic disease, we find that pertinence scores averaging 99.9% identify the causative variant under conditions in which a genomic trio is analyzed and family-aware variant calling is done. The analysis takes seconds, and pertinence scores can be improved by clinicians adding more findings. The core conclusion is that automated genome-phenome analysis can be accurate, rapid, and efficient. We also conclude that an automated process offers a methodology for quality improvement of many components of genomic analysis.
Unusual Clinical Presentation and Role of Decompressive Craniectomy in Herpes Simplex Encephalitis
Authors: Singhi Pratibha , Saini Arushi Gahlot , Sahu Jitendra Kumar , Kumar Nuthan , Vyas Sameer , Vasishta Rakesh Kumar , Aggarwal Ashish
Published: August 2014

Decompressive craniectomy in pediatric central nervous infections with refractory intracranial hypertension is less commonly practiced. We describe improved outcome of decompressive craniectomy in a 7-year-old boy with severe herpes simplex encephalitis and medically refractory intracranial hypertension, along with a brief review of the literature. Timely recognition of refractory intracranial hypertension and surgical decompression in children with herpes simplex encephalitis can be life-saving. Additionally, strokelike atypical presentations are being increasingly recognized in children with herpes simplex encephalitis and should not take one away from the underlying herpes simplex encephalitis.
An Interactive Input–Process–Output Model of Social Influence in Decision-Making Groups
Authors: Pavitt Charles
Published: August 2014

The first goal of this article is to demonstrate that the dichotomy between informational and normative influence in group decision making is long outdated and should be replaced with a distinction among compliance, comparison, and argumentation influence processes. The second goal of this article is to use this distinction as the basis for a literature review of the impact of various input factors on social influence during small group discussion. The third goal of this article is to present the Simplified Model of Group Social Influence Processes, an interactive input–process–output model relevant to decision-making groups. The article ends with a discussion of the implications of this model for future research and further model development.
A Culture of Future Planning
Authors: Cheney Ann M. , Ostrach Bayla , Marcus Ruthanne , Frank Cynthia , Ball Cassandra , Erickson Pamela I.
Published: August 2014

In this study we examined how social processes, specifically the acquisition of postsecondary education and capital, shaped perceptions of sexual risk and impacted sexual practices and sexual health among young adults. Using qualitative research methods we collected and analyzed data among students attending a 4-year university in the northeastern region of the United States over a 1-year period. By analyzing participants’ narratives, we found that the reproduction of shared norms and values encouraged educated young adults to focus on educational and professional success, pressing many of them to be concerned about preventing pregnancy rather than preventing disease transmission, and increasing their risk for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS. Sexual-health educators need to address how social processes shape sexual practices, encourage educated young adults to challenge unequal gender expectations, and consider how sexually transmitted infections might also interfere with life plans.
Concerns of Patients Undergoing Palliative Chemotherapy for End-Stage Carcinomatous Peritonitis
Authors: Kakuta Mayumi , Kakikawa Fusako , Chida Misao
Published: August 2014

We sought to identify how nurses can help to alleviate the concerns of inpatients undergoing palliative chemotherapy when the treatment effects are weakening. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 8 inpatients receiving palliative chemotherapy for end-stage carcinomatous peritonitis at a university hospital. Qualitative inductive analysis of the interview data revealed 7 categories of patient concerns. Overall, patients faced many dilemmas and expressed concerns about wanting to continue chemotherapy while also thinking about discontinuing it. However, they also expressed hope, the strength of which was influenced and changed in complex ways by each treatment outcome and the severity of their physical symptoms. From these results, we suggest specific aspects of nursing care for patients with end-stage cancer who are receiving palliative chemotherapy that is becoming less effective.
Red Blood Cell Distribution Width in Patients With Cryptogenic Stroke
Authors: Vayá Amparo , Hernández Victoriano , Rivera Leonor , Hernández José Luis , Lago Aída , España Francisco , Bautista Daniel
Published: August 2014

Background:

There is no information about a possible association of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) with cryptogenic stroke (CS). We aimed to analyze the association of RDW with CS.

Patients and Methods:

One hundred and sixty-three patients with CS were included along with 186 healthy controls. Fibrinogen, leukocytes, hemoglobin, and erythrocyte indices were evaluated.

Results:

Patients showed higher RDW, leukocyte count, and body mass index (BMI) than controls ( P < .05). No differences were observed in the erythrocyte indices or in glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides levels ( P > .05). When patients with anemia were excluded from the study (6 controls and 5 cases), the differences between cases and controls persisted ( P = .005). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that, after adjusting for potential confounders (anemia, age > 40 years, gender, and fibrinogen >382 mg/dL, total cholesterol >240 mg/dL, and BMI > 28.7 kg/m2), RDW >14% was the only parameter that independently increased the risk of CS.

Conclusion:

The RDW >14% increased the risk of CS by 2.5-fold, irrespectively of anemia, inflammation, and lipidic profile.
How Are Previous Physical Activity and Self-Efficacy Related to Future Physical Activity and Self-Efficacy?
Authors: David Prabu , Pennell Michael L. , Foraker Randi E. , Katz Mira L. , Buckworth Janet , Paskett Electra D.
Published: August 2014

Self-efficacy (SE) has been found to be a robust predictor of success in achieving physical activity (PA) goals. While much of the current research has focused on SE as a trait, SE as a state has received less attention. Using day-to-day measurements obtained over 84 days, we examined the relationship between state SE and PA. Postmenopausal women ( n = 71) participated in a 12-week PA intervention administered via cell phone and monitored their daily PA using a pedometer. At the end of each day, they reported their state SE and number of steps. Using a longitudinal model, state SE was found to be a robust predictor of PA even after accounting for trait SE and other covariates. The findings offer insights about the temporal relationship between SE and PA over the course of an intervention, which can be of interest to researchers and intervention designers.
Would Your Patient Prefer to Be Considered Your Friend? Patient Preferences in Physician Relationships
Authors: Magnezi Racheli , Bergman Lisa Carroll , Urowitz Sara
Published: August 2014

Objectives. To understand how patient preferences and perceptions of their relationship with their doctor (as patient, friend, partner, client, consumer, or insured) affects confidence in care provided and participation in health care. Methods. Telephone questionnaire to 2,135 households, representative of the population in Israel. Results. A total of 508 completed the questionnaire. Most described perceived and desired relationships with their doctor as patient or friend. Individuals were least satisfied with business-type relationships implied by client, consumer, or insured. Preference in relationship type was not associated with participation in health care. Those with a patient, friend, or partner relationship were twice as confident in their care as those with a business-type relationship. Conclusions. Preferences for the terms patient and friend over business terms highlight the importance of the human connection in the patient–physician relationship. Although one might consider patient a paternalistic term, those with a patient, partner, or friend-type versus a business-type relationship had much greater confidence in their care and were no less likely to be active participants in their own health care.
The Digital Health Divide
Authors: Hall Amanda K. , Bernhardt Jay M. , Dodd Virginia , Vollrath Morgan W.
Published: August 2014

Objective. Innovations in health information technology (HIT) provide opportunities to reduce health care spending, improve quality of care, and improve health outcomes for older adults. However, concerns relating to older adults’ limited access and use of HIT, including use of the Internet for health information, fuel the digital health divide debate. This study evaluated the potential digital health divide in relation to characteristic and belief differences between older adult users and nonusers of online health information sources. Methods. A cross-sectional survey design was conducted using a random sample of older adults. A total of 225 older adults (age range = 50-92 years, M = 68.9 years, SD = 10.4) participated in the study. Results. Seventy-six percent of all respondents had Internet access. Users and nonusers of online health information differed significantly on age ( M = 66.29 vs. M = 71.13), education, and previous experience with the health care system. Users and nonusers of online health information also differed significantly on Internet and technology access, however, a large percentage of nonusers had Internet access (56.3%), desktop computers (55.9%), and laptop computers or netbooks (43.2%). Users of online health information had higher mean scores on the Computer Self-Efficacy Measure than nonusers, t(159) = −7.29, p < .0001. Conclusion. This study found significant differences between older adult users and nonusers of online health information. Findings suggest strategies for reducing this divide and implications for health education programs to promote HIT use among older adults.
A novel association of ocular neuromyotonia with brainstem demyelination: Two case reports
Authors: Menon Deepak , Sreedharan Sapna Erat , Gupta Maneesh , Nair MD
Published: August 2014

Ocular neuromyotonia (ONM) is a rare disorder of ocular mal-alignment in which painless, transient spontaneous or gaze-induced abnormal deviation of the eye manifests as episodic diplopia. With only a few cases reported in the literature, ONM mostly follows months to years after cranial irradiation for sellar or suprasellar lesions. Here we present two patients with this rare ocular condition, secondary to brainstem demyelination, the association of which is hitherto unreported in the literature. Both patients were 15-year-old girls who presented to us with episodic forced-eye deviation with diplopia. Examination during these attacks revealed ONM involving the superior rectus and medial rectus in the first and second patient, respectively. There was clinical evidence of intrinsic brainstem involvement with downbeat nystagmus and skew deviation in one patient without any other cerebellar or long tract signs. MRI showed evidence of demyelination involving the brainstem in both, with CSF showing positive immunological markers and with positive aquaporin-4 antibody in one patient. Both patients responded remarkably to immunomodulatory therapy and are asymptomatic at follow-up. That ONM can occur with brainstem demyelination has not been reported in the literature. This association may help in explaining the pathophysiology of ONM as secondary to segmental demyelination.
Sudden onset of sleep due to hypothalamic lesions in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder positive for anti-aquaporin-4 antibody
Authors: Okuma H , Matsumura K , Hatanaka Y , Saito F , Sonoo M
Published: August 2014

We report a patient with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders who presented with sudden onset of sleep as the sole manifestation. Magnetic resonance imaging investigation revealed lesions in the hypothalamus bilaterally, which vanished completely after methylprednisolone pulse therapy.
Addressing the regulatory and scientific challenges in multiple sclerosis – a statement from the EU regulators
Authors: Balabanov Pavel , Haas Manuel , Elferink Andre , Bakchine Serge , Broich Karl
Published: August 2014

Improving and facilitating the process of making new drugs available to patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) requires cooperation among the regulators and other stakeholders. This cooperation will also positively contribute towards developing guidelines of the highest quality in medical, regulatory and scientific aspects. This would be beneficial both in areas that require further guideline development, but also in fields where existing guidance should be adapted to take into account evolution in science. Considering the input from all stakeholders, the European Medicines Agency confirmed its intention to update the relevant guideline and apply a flexible approach towards new drug development strategies in MS. This article is the first official position from the EU regulators, presenting the main changes to be expected in the guidance document.
Global migration meets TV format adaptation: The post-Soviet diaspora, ‘Whiteness’, and return migration in Dancing with the Stars (US) and Ukraine’s The Bachelor
Authors: Sadowski-Smith Claudia
Published: August 2014

This article examines representations of the post-Soviet diaspora on US Dancing with the Stars and Ukraine’s version of the US Bachelor to show how their use of diasporic performers conflicts with narratives of national cohesion that are essential to the adaptation of reality TV formats to new markets. The first season of Холостяк starred an emigrant from Odessa who is also a regular on the US version of the British franchise Dancing with the Stars. Cast because his diasporic identity and expertise helped facilitate the adaptation of the two TV franchises, his transnationalism came into conflict with narratives of nationalism that are key to formatting. In an effort to appeal to assumed local audience preferences for conservative versions of national identification, the two shows reduced his post-Soviet identity to that of a ‘Ukrainian’ return migrant or a ‘white’ US immigrant, which also obscured the failures of each national project with regard to migration.
The DVD region code system: Standardizing home video’s disjunctive global flows
Authors: Elkins Evan
Published: August 2014

Drawing together work from global media studies, studies of digital media regulation and governance, and cultural theory, this article analyzes the DVD region code system. It details how the technology came about through a process of global governance that set the terms for home video’s global distribution to the general advantage of Hollywood’s film industries. Rather than presenting a picture of purely top-down technological control, however, it argues that the emergence of region codes represented an international process of technical development and standardization by private media industries that reflected and generated understandings of media regions as both differentiated economic markets and spaces of cultural organization and coherence.
Social media in literacy education: Exploring social reading with pre-service teachers
Authors: Vlieghe Joachim , Vandermeersche Geert , Soetaert Ronald
Published: August 2014

The rise of digital media affects literacy practices, notably how literary fiction is read and discussed in online environments. Traditional notions of literacy and interpretations of what it means to act as readers or literature teachers can be re-examined within this new configuration of literacy. Starting from a perspective of teachers-as-ethnographers, the authors of this article study how pre-service teachers describe their roles and opportunities to act in social media environments. They present a framework which charts an evolution toward an understanding of reading as social practice. The authors present an exploration of reading practices within the social reading environment Goodreads that was set up with 79 student-teachers. The participants collaboratively composed an autoethnographic document consisting of multiple discussion threads that detail their experiences and reflections on social reading practices. Content analysis revealed seven themes, divided into two clusters: social reading and the implementation of social media in literacy education.
Benefits of Mindfulness Training for Patients With Progressive Cognitive Decline and Their Caregivers
Authors: Paller Ken A. , Creery Jessica D. , Florczak Susan M. , Weintraub Sandra , Mesulam M.-Marsel , Reber Paul J. , Kiragu Jessica , Rooks Joshua , Safron Adam , Morhardt Darby , O’Hara Mary , Gigler Kathryn L. , Molony John M. , Maslar Michael
Published: August 2014

New strategies are needed to help people cope with the repercussions of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Patients and caregivers face different challenges, but here we investigated an intervention tailored for this combined population. The program focused on training skills such as attending to the present moment nonjudgmentally, which may help reduce maladaptive emotional responses. Patients participated together with caregivers in weekly group sessions over 8 weeks. An assessment battery was individually administered before and after the program. Pre–post analyses revealed several benefits, including increased quality-of-life ratings, fewer depressive symptoms, and better subjective sleep quality. In addition, participants indicated that they were grateful for the opportunity to learn to apply mindfulness skills and that they would recommend the program to others. In conclusion, mindfulness training can be beneficial for patients and their caregivers, it can be delivered at low cost to combined groups, and it is worthy of further investigation.
Juvenile Justice System Outcomes Among Foreign-Born and Native-Born Latinos in the United States
Authors: Miller Holly Ventura
Published: August 2014

A growing body of research has identified a negative relationship between generational status and criminological outcomes such that foreign-born Latinos are significantly less likely to report offending, victimization, and drug use compared to their native-born counterparts. What has been explored to a lesser degree is the extent to which generational status impacts the experiences of Latino youth within the juvenile justice system. Using the Add Health data set, this article explores the prevalence of juvenile court involvement among foreign (i.e., first generation) and native-born (i.e., second generation or higher) Latino youth as well as the types of offenses for which they were adjudicated delinquent. Results suggest that significant differences exist between the foreign and native-born both in terms of juvenile court involvement and offense types. These findings are discussed relative to the extant literature and juvenile justice policy and practice.
Relational Behavior of Leaders
Authors: Gilbert G. Ronald , Myrtle Robert C. , Sohi Ravipreet S.
Published: August 2014

Organizational researchers widely acknowledge that positive relational behavior is associated with leadership effectiveness. In this exploratory study, we seek to extend previous research examining contextual factors that influence leadership style based on the characteristics of person–vocation fit. Using information derived from a 360° assessment that included one’s top managers, peers, and subordinates ( N = 934), we find that leaders working in settings that attract Holland’s Social (S) types demonstrate more positive relational behavior than those who work in Realistic (R) type work settings. Our research also indicates that the relationship between leadership style and perceived effectiveness varies based on the work interests shared by individuals who are attracted to different vocational settings. One style of leadership does not fit all work contexts, and the person–vocation fit framework can help explain what comprises effective leadership style in different contexts.
The emerging role of miRNAs in inflammatory bowel disease: a review
Authors: Chapman Christopher G. , Pekow Joel
Published: August 2014

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprised of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, is believed to develop as a result of a deregulated inflammatory response to environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite advances in understanding the genetic risks of IBD, associated single nucleotide polymorphisms have low penetrance, monozygotic twin studies suggest a low concordance rate, and increasing worldwide IBD incidence leave gaps in our understanding of IBD heritability and highlight the importance of environmental influences. Operating at the interface between environment and heritable molecular and cellular phenotypes, microRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous, small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression. Studies to date have identified unique miRNA expression profile signatures in IBD and preliminary functional analyses associate these deregulated miRNAs to canonical pathways associated with IBD pathogenesis. In this review, we summarize and discuss the miRNA expression signatures associated with IBD in tissue and peripheral blood, highlight miRNAs with potential future clinical applications as diagnostic and therapeutic targets, and provide an outlook on how to develop miRNA based therapies.
Mechanistic Evidence in Support of Alpha1-Antitrypsin as a Therapeutic Approach for Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Fleixo-Lima Gabriella , Ventura Hilla , Medini Michal , Bar Liliana , Strauss Pnina , Lewis Eli C.
Published: August 2014

Utilizing endogenous molecules as a therapeutic approach is almost unequivocally superior to engineered or synthetic molecules. However, one rarely encounters an anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, immunomodulatory and wound-healing molecule that has been available for use for decades. α1-antitrypsin (AAT), a circulating protein that rises more than 4-fold during acute-phase responses, has been administered for a rare genetic deficiency at large doses, for life. Aside from advances in insulin therapy, medical research in type 1 diabetes (T1D) has predominantly focused on autoimmunity—controlling the adaptive immune response. However, it is now appreciated that one may need to extend therapeutic targets to incorporate immune responses to cellular injury, as well as promote selective control over excessive inflammation and early tissue repair. Recent data suggest that tissue damage related to lung and renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, stroke, and ischemic heart disease is markedly reduced by AAT. AAT was also shown to protect pancreatic islet β cells at multiple levels. Unlike classic immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory approaches, AAT exerts some antiviral and antibacterial activities. Based on these and other reports, AAT is under evaluation for treatment of T1D patients in multiple clinical trials. Initial results suggest that AAT therapy could potentially improve insulin production without adverse effects. Up to 50% of individuals displayed improved islet function. It is a rare occurrence in T1D research that a therapy is offered that holds a safety profile equal or superior to that of insulin alone. While placebo-controlled trials are ongoing, the mechanism(s) behind these favorable activities of AAT are still being explored.
Bridle Procedure Combined With a Subtalar Implant
Authors: Flynn James , Wade Allison , Bustillo Jorge , Juliano Paul
Published: August 2014

Background. The bridle procedure is a tritendon anastomosis between the tibialis posterior, peroneus longus, and tibialis anterior, utilized in the treatment of drop foot. Concerned about the potential for acquired flatfoot deformity following the bridle procedure, the authors hypothesized that placing a sinus tarsi implant would prevent this potential sequela. Materials and Methods. Over a 10-year period, 15 patients (16 feet) were treated with a bridle procedure for drop foot, and 9 of these feet also had a subtalar arthroereisis implanted; 8 patients (9 feet) positively responded to requests for long-term follow-up evaluation and returned for subjective evaluation with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hindfoot Scale and Short Form (SF)-36 forms and objective clinical and radiographic measurements. Results. At an average follow-up of 61 months, the 8 patients (9 feet) who returned for long-term evaluation maintained a plantigrade foot, were able to dorsiflex above neutral both actively and passively, and did not develop a flatfoot deformity at long-term follow-up. There were no significant differences between those who had a sinus tarsi implant (6 feet) and those who did not (3 feet). Although 7 of the 9 feet evaluated in this study wore a brace preoperatively, none continued to use a brace after surgery. The major complaints were occasional pain at the subtalar arthroereisis site and a feeling that the great toe was dragging. Conclusion. The bridle procedure provided excellent outcomes in patients with drop foot, with patients achieving long-term success in being free from brace wear. The ability to actively dorsiflex the foot during gait was also restored, reestablishing a normal heel-to-toe gait pattern.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case series
Treatment of Stage II Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity With Subtalar Arthroereises
Authors: Zhu Yuan , Xu Xiang-yang
Published: August 2014

The role of arthroereises in the treatment of adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) has been controversial. This study aims to evaluate the outcome of subtalar arthroereisis in treating stage II AAFD. A total of 24 feet with stage II AAFD were treated surgically between 2009 and 2011 using subtalar arthroereisis. The average follow-up was 29.7 months (range = 24 to 35 months). The average postoperative AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale score was 85.6 (compared with 51.7 preoperatively). Average preoperative talar-first metatarsal angle and talonavicular coverage angle were −13.9° and 38.3°, respectively. The average postoperative angles were 1.6° and 11.2°, respectively (P < .01). No deformity recurrences were found at the time of last follow-up, with the exception of 1 case. Subtalar arthroereisis appears to be a reasonable treatment option for stage IIA and IIC AAFD. It can be used alone to correct mild hindfoot valgus, and it can also be performed with a calcaneal osteotomy to gain more correction in severe stage II AAFD.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Retrospective Case Series
Early Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis Intramedullary Nail for Treatment of a Complex Tibial Pilon Fracture (AO/OTA 43-C)
Authors: Hsu Andrew R. , Szatkowski Jan P.
Published: August 2014

Management of severely comminuted, complete articular tibial pilon fractures (AO/OTA 43-C) remains a challenge, with few treatment options providing good clinical outcomes. Open reduction and internal fixation of the tibial plafond, tibiotalar arthrodesis, and salvage hindfoot reconstruction procedures are all associated with surgical complications and functional limitations. In this report, we present a case of a complex pilon fracture in a patient with multiple medical comorbidities and socioeconomic disadvantages that was successfully and acutely treated with a retrograde tibiotalocalcaneal hindfoot arthrodesis nail. At final follow-up examination, the patient had decreased pain, a stable plantigrade foot, and could ambulate with normal shoes without any assistive devices.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case series
Evaluation of the Effect of Decision Support on the Efficiency of Primary Care Providers in the Outpatient Practice
Authors: Wagholikar Kavishwar B. , Hankey Ronald A. , Decker Lindsay K. , Cha Stephen S. , Greenes Robert A. , Liu Hongfang , Chaudhry Rajeev
Published: August 2014

Background: Clinical decision support (CDS) for primary care has been shown to improve delivery of preventive services. However, there is little evidence for efficiency of physicians due to CDS assistance. In this article, we report a pilot study for measuring the impact of CDS on the time spent by physicians for deciding on preventive services and chronic disease management. Methods: We randomly selected 30 patients from a primary care practice, and assigned them to 10 physicians. The physicians were requested to perform chart review to decide on preventive services and chronic disease management for the assigned patients. The patients assignment was done in a randomized crossover design, such that each patient received 2 sets of recommendations—one from a physician with CDS assistance and the other from a different physician without CDS assistance. We compared the physician recommendations made using CDS assistance, with the recommendations made without CDS assistance. Results: The physicians required an average of 1 minute 44 seconds, when they were they had access to the decision support system and 5 minutes when they were unassisted. Hence the CDS assistance resulted in an estimated saving of 3 minutes 16 seconds (65%) of the physicians’ time, which was statistically significant ( P < .0001). There was no statistically significant difference in the number of recommendations. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that CDS assistance significantly reduced the time spent by physicians for deciding on preventive services and chronic disease management. The result needs to be confirmed by performing similar studies at other institutions.
Elevated temperature tribological properties of AlTiN coating up to 700°C
Authors: Liu A. H. , Deng J. X.
Published: August 2014

High Al content AlTiN were deposited on YG6 (WC+ 6 wt-%Co) cemented carbide by cathodic arc evaporation technique. The tribological properties were investigated up to 700°C at a high speed of 100 m min−1. The results showed that the friction coefficient of the coating decreased with the increase of temperature apparently. The wear rate of room temperature was higher than that of 200 and 400°C, but showed ‘negative’ value at temperature over 500°C. The wear mechanism of the AlTiN coating at temperature less than 400°C was primary abrasive wear, while oxidation and adherence were suggested to be the main wear mechanisms at elevated temperature over 500°C. By comparison, adhesive wear was more predominant in the friction, the contribution of adhesive wear was more than that of abrasive wear at elevated temperatures.
On minimax programming problems involving right upper-Dini-derivative functions
Authors: Jayswal Anurag , Ahmad Izhar , Kummari Krishna , Al-Homidan Suliman
Published: August 2014

In this paper, we derive necessary and sufficient optimality conditions for a general minimax programming problem involving some classes of generalized convexities with the tool-right upper-Dini-derivative. Moreover, using the concept of optimality conditions, Mond-Weir type duality theory has been developed for such a minimax programming problem.

MSC:26A51, 49J35, 90C32.
Metabolism under hypoxia in Tm1 murine melanoma cells is affected by the presence of galectin-3, a metabolomics approach
Authors: Bacchi Pedro Starzynski , Bloise Antonio Carlos , Bustos Silvina Odete , Zimmermann Lara , Chammas Roger , Rabbani Said Rahnamaye
Published: August 2014

Metabolomicshas proven an useful tool for systems biology. Here we have used ametabolomicsapproach to identify conditions in whichde novoexpression of an established tumor marker, galectin-3, would confer a potential selective advantage for melanoma growth and survival. A murine melanoma cell line (Tm1) that lacks galectin-3 was modified to express it or not (Tm1.G2andTm1.N3, respectively). These variant cell line were then exposed to conditions of controlled oxygen tensions and glucose levels. Metabolic profiling of intracellular metabolites of cells exposed to these conditions was obtained in steady state using high resolution1H Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (1H-MRS) and multivariate statistical analysis. The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectra contained a large number of absorption lines from which we were able to distinguish 20 metabolites, 3 fatty acids and some absorption lines and clusters were not identified. Principal Components Analysis (PCA) allowed for the discrimination of 2 experimental conditions in which expression of the tumor marker galectin-3 may play a significant role, namely exposure of cells to hypoxia under high glucose. Interestingly, under all other experimental conditions tested, the cellular system was quite robust. Our results suggest that theMetabolomicsapproach can be used to access information about changes in many metabolic pathways induced in tumorigenic cells and to allow the evaluation of their behavior in controlled environmental conditions or selective pressures.
P2Y2receptor activation by nucleotides released from highly metastatic breast cancer cells increases tumor growth and invasion via crosstalk with endothelial cells
Authors: Jin Hana , Eun So Young , Lee Jong Sil , Park Sang Won , Lee Jae Heun , Chang Ki Churl , Kim Hye Jung
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Extracellular nucleotides are released and detectable in a high concentration within the tumor microenvironment. G protein-coupled P2Y2 nucleotide receptor (P2Y2R) is activated equipotently by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and uridine 5′-triphosphate (UTP), which mediate proinflammatory responses such as cell migration and proliferation. However, the role of P2Y2R in the process of cancer metastasis remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the role of P2Y2R in the proliferation, migration and invasion of highly metastatic MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells through crosstalk with endothelial cells (ECs).

Methods

ATP release and P2Y2R activity between high metastatic breast cancer cell MDA-MB-231 and low metastatic breast cancer cell MCF-7 were compared. Then, the role of P2Y2R on tumor growth and invasion via crosstalk with ECs was examined in vitro, using MDA-MB-231 cells and ECs transfected with control- or P2Y2R-siRNA, and in vivo, using an animal model injected with control-shRNA- or P2Y2R-shRNA-transfected MDA-MB-231 cells.

Results

We found that this highly metastatic breast cancer cell line released higher levels of ATP and showed a higher P2Y2R activity in comparison to a low metastatic breast cancer cell line, MCF-7. In MDA-MB-231 cells, P2Y2R activation by ATP or UTP increased proliferation at 24 or 72 hours, which was abolished by P2Y2R knock-down. In addition, the adhesion of MDA-MB-231 cells to ECs and cell migration were both significantly increased by ATP or UTP through the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) in MDA-MB-231 or ECs but not in cells where P2Y2R was knocked down. Furthermore, ATP- or UTP-mediated activation of P2Y2R induced MDA-MB-231 invasion through ECs, increased matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production in MDA-MB-231 and induced the phosphorylation of vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin in ECs. Tumor growth and metastasis to other tissues were dramatically reduced, and body weight was increased in mice injected with P2Y2R-shRNA-transfected MDA-MB-231 cells compared to mice injected with control shRNA-transfected MDA-MB-231 cells.

Conclusion

This study suggests that P2Y2R may play an important role in cancer metastasis via modulation of the crosstalk between cancer cells and ECs.
There’s life in the old dog yet: vitamin C as a therapeutic option in endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Rodemeister Sandra , Biesalski Hans K
Published: August 2014

The use of vitamin C against different diseases has been controversially and emotionally discussed since Linus Pauling published his cancer studies. In vitro and animal studies showed promising results and explained the impact of vitamin C, particularly in cases with endothelial dysfunction. Indeed, studies (reviewed in this issue of Critical Care by Oudemans-van Straaten and colleagues) using high-dose vitamin C and the parenteral route of application seem to be more successful than oral vitamin C delivery.
Noise pollution in the ICU: time to look into the mirror
Authors: Simons Koen S , Park Munhum , Kohlrausch Armin , van den Boogaard Mark , Pickkers Peter , de Bruijn Werner , de Jager Cornelis pc
Published: August 2014

No abstract
Biology of breast cancer in young women
Authors: Azim Hatem A , Partridge Ann H
Published: August 2014

Breast cancer arising at a young age is relatively uncommon, particularly in the developed world. Several studies have demonstrated that younger patients often experience a more aggressive disease course and have poorer outcome compared to older women. Expression of key biomarkers, including endocrine receptors, HER2 and proliferation markers, appears to be different in younger patients and young women are more likely to harbor a genetic predisposition. Despite these differences, little research to date has focused on the biology of these tumors to refine prognosis, and potentially direct treatment strategies, which remain similar to those offered to older patients. Accumulating evidence suggests the differences in breast stroma in younger patients and changes that occur with pregnancy and breastfeeding likely contribute to the different biology of these tumors. Reproductive behaviors appear to impact the biology of tumors developing later in life. In addition, tumors arising during or shortly following pregnancy appear to exhibit unique biological features. In this review, we discuss our emerging understanding of the biology of breast cancer arising at a young age at both the pathologic and the genomic level. We elucidate the potential role of genomic signatures, the impact of pregnancy and breastfeeding on breast cancer biology, and how even current knowledge might advance the clinical management of young breast cancer patients.
Effect of one year of a gluten-free diet on the clinical evolution of irritable bowel syndrome plus fibromyalgia in patients with associated lymphocytic enteritis: a case-control study
Authors: Rodrigo Luis , Blanco Ignacio , Bobes Julio , de Serres Frederick J
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lymphocytic enteritis (LE) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) are three common disorders. Since a gluten-free diet (GFD) has been shown to be helpful in LE, we aimed to assess its effect in a series of LE patients also diagnosed with IBS and FMS.

Methods

The study sample comprised 97 IBS plus FMS adult females, of whom 58 had LE (Marsh stage 1), and 39 had a normal duodenal biopsy (Marsh stage 0). All patients fulfilled the Rome III and American College of Rheumatology 1990 criteria. All participants followed a GFD, the effectiveness of which was assessed by changes in the results of several tests, including those of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), tender points (TPs), the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and the Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) for gastrointestinal complaints, pain and fatigue.

Results

At baseline, all patients had a poor quality of life (QoL) and high VAS scores. After one year on a GFD, all outcome measures were somewhat better in the Marsh stage 1 group, with a mean decrease of 26 to 29% in the TPs, FIQ, HAQ and VAS scales, accompanied by an increase of 27% in the SF-36 physical and mental component scores. However, in the IBS plus FMS/Marsh stage 0 group, the GFD had almost no effect.

Conclusions

This pilot study shows that a GFD in the LE-related IBS/FMS subgroup of patients can produce a slight but significant improvement in all symptoms. Our findings suggest that further studies of this subject are warranted.