bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acetaldehyde Induces Cytotoxicity of SH‐SY5Y Cells via Inhibition of Akt Activation and Induction of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Yan Tingting , Zhao Yan , Zhang Xia
Published: November 2015

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to brain tissue damage and cognitive dysfunction. It has been shown that heavy drinking is associated with an earlier onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Acetaldehyde, the most toxic metabolite of ethanol, is speculated to mediate the brain tissue damage and cognitive dysfunction induced by the chronic excessive consumption of alcohol. However, the exact mechanisms by which acetaldehyde induces neurotoxicity are not totally understood. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic effects of acetaldehyde in SH‐SY5Y cells and found that acetaldehyde induced apoptosis of SH‐SY5Y cells by downregulating the expression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL and upregulating the expression of proapoptotic Bax. Acetaldehyde treatment led to a significant decrease in the levels of activated Akt and cyclic AMP‐responsive element binding protein (CREB). In addition, acetaldehyde induced the activation of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) while inhibiting the activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases (ERKs, p44/p42MAPK). Meanwhile, acetaldehyde treatment caused an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species and elevated the oxidative stress in SH‐SY5Y cells. Therefore, acetaldehyde induces cytotoxicity of SH‐SY5Y cells via promotion of apoptotic signaling, inhibition of cell survival pathway, and induction of oxidative stress.
Encapsulated Whole Bone Marrow Cells Improve Survival in Wistar Rats after 90% Partial Hepatectomy
Authors: Uribe-Cruz Carolina , Kieling Carlos Oscar , López Mónica Luján , Osvaldt Alessandro , Ochs de Muñoz Gustavo , Silveira Themis Reverbel da , Giugliani Roberto , Matte Ursula
Published: November 2015

Background and Aims. The use of bone marrow cells has been suggested as an alternative treatment for acute liver failure. In this study, we investigate the effect of encapsulated whole bone marrow cells in a liver failure model. Methods. Encapsulated cells or empty capsules were implanted in rats submitted to 90% partial hepatectomy. The survival rate was assessed. Another group was euthanized at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after hepatectomy to study expression of cytokines and growth factors. Results. Whole bone marrow group showed a higher than 10 days survival rate compared to empty capsules group. Gene expression related to early phase of liver regeneration at 6 hours after hepatectomy was decreased in encapsulated cells group, whereas genes related to regeneration were increased at 12, 24, and 48 hours. Whole bone marrow group showed lower regeneration rate at 72 hours and higher expression and activity of caspase 3. In contrast, lysosomal‐β‐glucuronidase activity was elevated in empty capsules group. Conclusions. The results show that encapsulated whole bone marrow cells reduce the expression of genes involved in liver regeneration and increase those responsible for ending hepatocyte division. In addition, these cells favor apoptotic cell death and decrease necrosis, thus increasing survival.
The Cellular Response to Oxidatively Induced DNA Damage and Polymorphism of Some DNA Repair Genes Associated with Clinicopathological Features of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Savina Nataliya V. , Nikitchenko Nataliya V. , Kuzhir Tatyana D. , Rolevich Alexander I. , Krasny Sergei A. , Goncharova Roza I.
Published: November 2015

Genome instability and impaired DNA repair are hallmarks of carcinogenesis. The study was aimed at evaluating the DNA damage response in H2O2‐treated lymphocytes using the alkaline comet assay in bladder cancer (BC) patients as compared to clinically healthy controls, elderly persons, and individuals with chronic inflammations. Polymorphism in DNA repair genes involved in nucleotide excision repair (NER) and base excision repair (BER) was studied using the PCR‐RFLP method in the Belarusian population to elucidate the possible association of their variations with both bladder cancer risk and clinicopathological features of tumors. The increased level of H2O2‐induced DNA damage and a higher proportion of individuals sensitive to oxidative stress were found among BC patients as compared to other groups under study. Heterozygosity in the XPD gene (codon 751) increased cancer risk: OR (95% CI) = 1.36 (1.03–1.81), p = 0.031. The frequency of the XPD 312Asn allele was significantly higher in T ≥ 2 high grade than in T ≥ 2 low grade tumors (p = 0.036); the ERCC6 1097Val/Val genotype was strongly associated with muscle‐invasive tumors. Combinations of homozygous wild type alleles occurred with the increased frequency in patients with non‐muscle‐invasive tumors suggesting that the maintenance of normal DNA repair activity may prevent cancer progression.
A Multicenter Retrospective Survey regarding Diabetic Ketoacidosis Management in Italian Children with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Zucchini Stefano , Scaramuzza Andrea E. , Bonfanti Riccardo , Buono Pietro , Cardella Francesca , Cauvin Vittoria , Cherubini Valentino , Chiari Giovanni , d’Annunzio Giuseppe , Frongia Anna Paola , Iafusco Dario , Maltoni Giulio , Patera Ippolita Patrizia , Toni Sonia , Tumini Stefano , Rabbone Ivana ,   Diabetes Study Group of the Italian Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology (ISPED)
Published: November 2015

We conducted a retrospective survey in pediatric centers belonging to the Italian Society for Pediatric Diabetology and Endocrinology. The following data were collected for all new-onset diabetes patients aged 0–18 years: DKA (pH < 7.30), severe DKA (pH < 7.1), DKA in preschool children, DKA treatment according to ISPAD protocol, type of rehydrating solution used, bicarbonates use, and amount of insulin infused. Records(n=2453)of children with newly diagnosed diabetes were collected from 68/77 centers (87%), 39 of which are tertiary referral centers, the majority of whom (n=1536, 89.4%) were diagnosed in the tertiary referral centers. DKA was observed in 38.5% and severe DKA in 10.3%. Considering preschool children, DKA was observed in 72%, and severe DKA in 16.7%. Cerebral edema following DKA treatment was observed in 5 (0.5%). DKA treatment according to ISPAD guidelines was adopted in 68% of the centers. In the first 2 hours, rehydration was started with normal saline in all centers, but with different amount. Bicarbonate was quite never been used. Insulin was infused starting from third hour at the rate of 0.05–0.1 U/kg/h in 72% of centers. Despite prevention campaign, DKA is still observed in Italian children at onset, with significant variability in DKA treatment, underlying the need to share guidelines among centers.
Multiband Polarization Imaging
Authors: Zhao Yongqiang , Peng Qunnie , Yi Chen , Kong Seong G.
Published: November 2015

Multiband polarization imaging is an emerging sensing method that enables simultaneous acquisition of multiband spectral and multiangle polarization information of an object of interest in the scene. Spectral signatures of the light reflected from a target reveal the characteristics of the material composing the target while polarized light provides useful information on the surface features such as light scattering and specular reflection. In multiband spectral imaging, combined spectral and polarization information offers a comprehensive representation of an object utilizing complementary spectral and polarization information in visual sensing. Multiband polarization imaging has demonstrated a potential in the recognition of targets in challenging operating environments such as low-contrast and hazy conditions. This paper presents the concept and recent advances of multiband polarization imaging techniques, in particular, a bioinspired multiband polarization vision system. Applications of multiband polarization imaging in various fields include atmospheric observation, object detection and classification, medical diagnostics, surveillance, and 3D object reconstruction.
HERG Protein Plays a Role in Moxifloxacin-Induced Hypoglycemia
Authors: Qiu Hai-Yan , Yuan Sha-Sha , Yang Fang-Yuan , Shi Ting-Ting , Yang Jin-Kui
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of moxifloxacin on HERG channel protein and glucose metabolism. HERG expression was investigated using immunohistochemistry. The whole-cell patch clamp method was used to examine the effect of moxifloxacin on HERG channel currents. A glucose tolerance test was used to analyze the effects of moxifloxacin on blood glucose and insulin concentrations in mice. Results show that HERG protein was expressed in human pancreatic β-cells. Moxifloxacin inhibited HERG time-dependent and tail currents in HEK293 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The IC50 of moxifloxacin inhibition was 36.65 μmol/L. Moxifloxacin (200 mg/kg) reduced blood glucose levels and increased insulin secretion in wild-type mice at 60 min after the start of the glucose tolerance test. In contrast, moxifloxacin did not significantly alter blood glucose and insulin levels in HERG knockout mice. Serum glucose levels increased and insulin concentrations decreased in HERG knockout mice when compared to wild-type mice. The moxifloxacin-induced decrease in blood glucose and increase in insulin secretion occurred via the HERG protein; thus, HERG protein plays a role in insulin secretion.
Mitochondrion‐Permeable Antioxidants to Treat ROS‐Burst‐Mediated Acute Diseases
Authors: Zhang Zhong-Wei , Xu Xiao-Chao , Liu Ting , Yuan Shu
Published: November 2015

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a crucial role in the inflammatory response and cytokine outbreak, such as during virus infections, diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, antioxidant is an important medicine to ROS‐related diseases. For example, ascorbic acid (vitamin C, VC) was suggested as the candidate antioxidant to treat multiple diseases. However, long‐term use of high‐dose VC causes many side effects. In this review, we compare and analyze all kinds of mitochondrion‐permeable antioxidants, including edaravone, idebenone, α‐Lipoic acid, carotenoids, vitamin E, and coenzyme Q10, and mitochondria‐targeted antioxidants MitoQ and SkQ and propose astaxanthin (a special carotenoid) to be the best antioxidant for ROS‐burst‐mediated acute diseases, like avian influenza infection and ischemia‐reperfusion. Nevertheless, astaxanthins are so unstable that most of them are inactivated after oral administration. Therefore, astaxanthin injection is suggested hypothetically. The drawbacks of the antioxidants are also reviewed, which limit the use of antioxidants as coadjuvants in the treatment of ROS‐associated disorders.
MicroRNA-148a Suppresses Invasion and Metastasis of Human Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Li Jing , Yu Tao , Cao Jun , Liu Lei , Liu Ying , Kong Han-Wei , Zhu Miao-Xin , Lin He-Chun , Chu Dan-dan , Yao Ming , Yan Ming-Xia
Published: November 2015

Background/Aims: microRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that regulate multiple targets through either the degradation of mRNAs or the inhibition of protein translation, thereby altering several functions simultaneously. Growing evidence indicates that miRNAs are involved in carcinogenesis and tumor progression in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: In this study, the mRNA expression levels of miR-148a were examined in NSCLC cell lines and patient specimens using quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. The functions of miR-148a in migration/invasion and lung metastasis formation were determined by using transwell and tail vein injection assays, respectively. Results: We demonstrated that miR-148a was down-regulated in NSCLC metastatic samples, and its expression was suppressed in NSCLC compared with the corresponding nonmalignant lung tissues. Clinical analysis indicated that miR-148a expression was lower in NSCLC patients compared with nonmalignant lung tissues . Decreased miR-148a was significantly associated with tumor node metastasis stage and lymph node metastasis. Furthermore, functional assays showed that miR-148a expression suppressed NSCLC cell invasive and migratory abilities in vitro and suppressed cancer metastasis in vivo, while inhibition of miR-148a enhanced NSCLC cell invasion and lung metastasis formation in a mouse model. Conclusions: Evidence from this study demonstrated that miR-148a exerts tumor-suppressive effects in NSCLC and suggests a new therapeutic option for NSCLC.
MicroRNAs as Regulators of Cisplatin Resistance in Lung Cancer
Authors: Chen Ying , Gao Yanping , Zhang Kai , Li Chen , Pan Yan , Chen Jing , Wang Rui , Chen Longbang
Published: November 2015

Cisplatin (CDDP) is one of the most effective broad-spectrum anticancer drugs, which has been employed for the treatment of lung cancer. The development of CDDP resistance is a major problem of tumor chemotherapy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an abundant class of small non-protein-coding RNAs, involved in the initiation and progression of human cancer. Increasing evidence has shown that dysregulation of miRNAs is involved in chemo resistance of tumor cells to anti-cancer drugs, including CDDP. This article summarizes current research involving miRNAs as regulators of key target genes for CDDP resistance in lung cancer. Potential use of targeting miRNAs can lead to miRNA-based therapies, which will be helpful for overcoming drug resistance and developing more effective personalized anti-cancer treatment strategies in human lung cancers.
CCR4-NOT2 Promotes the Differentiation and Lipogenesis of 3T3-L1 Adipocytes via Upregulation of PPARγ, CEBPα and Inhibition of P-GSK3α/β and β-Catenin
Authors: Sohn Eun Jung , Jung Deok-Beom , Lee Jihyun , Yoon Sang Wook , Won Gun-Ho , Ko Hyun Suk , Kim Sung-Hoon
Published: November 2015

Background/Aims: Though CCR4-NOT2 (CNOT2), one of CCR4-NOT complex subunits, was known to be involved in metastasis and apoptosis through transcription and mRNA degradation, its other biological function is poorly understood so far. The aim of this study is to elucidate the molecular role of CNOT2 in the differentiation process of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Methods and Results: CNOT2 was overexpressed during the differentiation process of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Consistently, mRNA levels of CNOT2, adiponectin, adiponectin 2, PPARγ and CEBPα were enhanced in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Conversely, CNOT2 depletion by siRNA transfection also reversed the activation of PPARγ and CEBPα and inhibition of GSK3α/β and β-catenin at the protein level in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Immunofluorescence assay revealed that CNOT2 was colocalized with PPARγ, but not with CEBPα in 3T3-L1 adipocyte. Consistently, IP western blots revealed that CNOT2 interacted with PPARγ in 3T3-L1 adipocyte. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that CNOT2 promotes the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes via upregulation of PPARγ, and CEBPα and inhibition of GSK3α/β and β-catenin signaling as a potent molecular target for obesity.
Short-Term Outcomes for Opiate and Crack Users Accessing Treatment: The Effects of Criminal Justice Referral and Crack Use
Authors: Jones Andrew , Hayhurst Karen P. , Millar Tim , Pierce Matthias , Dunn Graham , Donmall Michael
Published: November 2015

Background/Aims: The English drug treatment population doubled in size between 1998 and 2008, increasingly characterised by crack cocaine use and criminal justice system (CJS) referral. We assessed short-term (median 3.5 month) behaviour changes following participation in drug treatment and the moderating effect of CJS referral/crack use. Methods: Opiate and/or crack cocaine users (n = 1,267) were recruited from 342 agencies. Outcome effects were assessed via interaction term regression, clustered at participant level, controlling for client characteristics. Treatment retention effects were tested via Cox proportional hazard models. Results: Statistically significant improvements in health, drug use and offensive behaviour were observed (e.g. heroin use from 87 to 51%, acquisitive offending from 47 to 23%). Referral route was not associated with variation in outcomes. Crack use at baseline was associated with a greater chance of non-fatal overdose at follow-up (p = 0.035, 95% CI 1.08-8.20) but a greater reduction in offending income (p = 0.002, 95% CI £104-£419). Conclusion: Despite changes in the English drug treatment population, equivalent short-term improvements in client behaviour were observed a decade earlier. Outcomes for CJS-referred clients were comparable to non-CJS. Crack use at treatment entry offered some scope for greater improvements in offending but may be a barrier to cessation of mortality-associated risky behaviour.
Autologous Plasma Rich in Growth Factors Eyedrops in Refractory Cases of Ocular Surface Disorders
Authors: Merayo-Lloves Jesús , Sanchez Ronald M. , Riestra Ana C. , Anitua Eduardo , Begoña Leire , Orive Gorka , Fernandez-Vega Luis
Published: November 2015

Purpose: Preliminary information about the safety and efficacy of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) eyedrops in the treatment of refractory cases of diverse ocular surface disorders (OSDs) is presented here. Material and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included cases with OSDs refractory to previous treatment with conventional treatments or autologous serum or cyclosporine, and treated with PRGF eyedrops. The signs and symptoms of ocular surface disorders [using the ocular surface disease index (OSDI), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), visual analog scale (VAS) frequency and VAS severity] were evaluated before and after treatment with PRGF. A safety assessment was also performed reporting all adverse events or complications. Results: Forty-one patients with a total of 80 treated eyes were evaluated. Statistically significant reductions in the OSDI scale (39.27%), VAS frequency (38.9%) and VAS severity (40.3%), and a significant improvement in BCVA (54.86%) were all observed (p < 0.05). The results were stratified according to the identified potential effect modifiers. There were only two adverse events (eye redness and eyelid inflammation), which were reported as mild and resolved in a few days. Conclusions: PRGF eyedrops could be a safe and effective treatment option for refractory cases of OSDs. When treating patients the possible influence on the results of some clinical variables must be taken into account.
Autologous Internal Limiting Membrane Fragment Transplantation for Large, Chronic, and Refractory Macular Holes
Authors: De Novelli Fernando José , Preti Rony Carlos , Ribeiro Monteiro Mario Luiz , Pelayes David E. , Junqueira Nóbrega Mario , Takahashi Walter Yukihiko
Published: November 2015

Objective: To evaluate a technique of autologous internal limiting membrane (ILM) fragment transplantation for the treatment of large, chronic, and/or refractory macular holes (MH). Design: This was a 6-month prospective interventional case series. Method: Ten eyes of 10 patients with MH underwent pars plana vitretomy (PPV) and ILM peeling followed by transplantation of an autologous ILM fragment to the MH. Six patients had primary MH with an internal diameter greater than 500 µm and a duration of more than 18 months, including 1 patient with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy previously treated with panretinal photocoagulation. Four eyes with MH had previously been submitted to PPV (i.e. 1 for retinal detachment and 3 to attempt to close large MH). One of the latter also displayed juxtapapillary choroidal neovascularization due to age-related macular degeneration. The primary and secondary outcomes were MH closure and improvement of the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), respectively. Results: Complete MH closure was achieved in all cases. A statistically significant improvement in the average BCVA was observed after 6 months of follow-up (p = 0.018; paired t test). The BCVA improved in 8 eyes (80%), and in 6 of those eyes it improved by ≥15 letters. In 1 patient, the BCVA remained unchanged after the surgery, but the visual field reportedly improved. One patient experienced a slight worsening (0.16 logMAR). Two cases developed atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium despite MH closure and BCVA improvement. Conclusion: Treatment with autologous ILM fragment transplantation seems to be an efficient alternative for large, chronic, and refractory MH.
Recommendations on Quality Control and Quality Assurance in Cervical Cytology
Authors: Branca Margherita , Longatto-Filho Adhemar
Published: November 2015

Objective: We aimed to critically evaluate the importance of quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) strategies in the routine work of uterine cervix cytology. Study Design: We revised all the main principles of QC and QA that are already being implemented worldwide and then discussed the positive aspects and limitations of these as well as proposing alternatives when pertinent. Results: A literature review was introduced after highlighting the main historical revisions, and then a critical evaluation of the principal innovations in screening programmes was conducted, with recommendations being postulated. Conclusions: Based on the analysed data, QC and QA are two essential arms that support the quality of a screening programme.
Present Status of Renal Replacement Therapy in Asian Countries
Authors: Navva Pavan Kumar Rao , Venkata Sreepada Subramanyam , Shivanand Nayak Karopadi
Published: November 2015

Background: Asia is a huge and populous continent with diverse economies where the status of renal replacement therapy varies among different countries. Summary: The penetration of dialysis is poor among low income countries like India and China. A lack of trained nephrologists and limited numbers of dialysis facilities plague South Asian countries. Most of the hemodialysis centers are in the private sector; the few centers that are government-run or run by charitable organizations cannot meet growing needs. China has shown that twice-a-week hemodialysis can be feasible in female patients with small build. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) has less penetration among the developing countries than the developed countries in Asia. Novel schemes in India including the ‘once-in-a-lifetime payment' scheme and an insurance scheme for peritonitis are attracting more patients to PD. New biocompatible PD solutions and home care facilities have brought down the peritonitis rates. The PD-first policy in Thailand alongside the domestic manufacture of PD fluids has decreased the cost of PD there. Iran has shown drastic changes in its PD policy (from 0 to 1,150 recruitments in 5 years) in spite of its high transplantation rate. Home hemodialysis is practiced in mostly affluent countries like Japan, where again it accounts for only 0.1% of all hemodialysis. Key Messages: Developing countries should have more budgetary allocation for chronic ailments such as chronic kidney disease that can be utilized for training programs and establishing dialysis units, and thus meet the growing demands for renal replacement therapy. PD should be encouraged and adopted as first modality of renal replacement therapy considering its ease and economy.
The Frail Dialysis Population: A Growing Burden for the Dialysis Community
Authors: Johansen Kirsten L.
Published: November 2015

Background: The dialysis population is aging worldwide. It is well known that patients on dialysis have limited functional status, but only recently has frailty been considered. Summary: The prevalence of frailty among patients on dialysis ranges from 3.4- to 10-fold higher than among community-dwelling elderly, depending on the method of assessing frailty and patient characteristics. Despite its high prevalence and the high overall mortality in the dialysis population, frailty is associated with higher mortality, independent of clinical and demographic characteristics and comorbidity. The prevalence of frailty among patients with non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (CKD) is also high, and cross-sectional data suggest that the prevalence may increase as CKD progresses. Thus, interventions to improve frailty have the potential to improve quality of life and mortality. Although interventions to improve physical dysfunction have been successful in the population with end-stage renal disease, no studies have specifically targeted frail individuals. Therefore, the extent to which exercise or physical activity interventions are feasible among frail patients and can improve frailty urgently needs to be examined. In the meantime, providers should refer frail patients to physical therapists and encourage them to be more active if possible. In addition, more attention should be focused on the possibility that rehabilitation among patients with earlier stages of CKD could improve dialysis outcomes. Key Messages: Frailty is extremely common among patients on dialysis and is independently associated with adverse outcomes. Providers should take advantage of available resources to improve functioning in this population, and research should address the optimal strategy for addressing frailty, including timing of intervention.
Application of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy: What Should We Consider Based on Existing Evidence?
Authors: Hanafusa Norio
Published: November 2015

Background: Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is performed mainly in patients with acute kidney injury, severe sepsis, or septic shock. Evidence has emerged about the indications for and therapeutic conditions of CRRT. In this review, we focus on the evidence for CRRT to date. Summary: CRRT employs diffusion, convection and adsorption to remove solutes from plasma. Indications can be divided into renal and non-renal indications. Concrete renal indications have not yet been determined, except for life-threatening absolute indications. Modality selection is a point of debate. Intermittent renal replacement therapy is reportedly equivalent to CRRT in terms of overall survival. However, the selection of modality must consider individual circumstances. The optimal dosage of CRRT has proven to be lower than that previously recommended, and the dosage is almost the same as the one employed in the ‘real-world' setting. Patients treated by CRRT often have bleeding complications. In this situation, regional citrate anticoagulation can be used, but nafamostat is widely used in Japan. The right jugular vein is the most preferred vascular access site because it has the lowest likelihood of catheter malfunction. As for the complications of CRRT, hypophosphatemia and nutrient loss should be managed properly. When CRRT is no longer necessary, we should consider the appropriate timing of discontinuation. Key Messages: Even though CRRT is an established technique, several points remain under debate. Individualization of therapy should be considered in light of the changes in patient characteristics.
Sustainability of the Peritoneal Dialysis-First Policy in Hong Kong
Authors: Choy Agnes Shin-Man , Li Philip Kam-Tao
Published: November 2015

In Hong Kong, the average annual cost of haemodialysis (HD) per patient is more than double of that of peritoneal dialysis (PD). As the number of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) has surged, it has posed a great financial burden to the government and society. A PD-first policy has been implemented in Hong Kong for three decades based on its cost-effectiveness, and has achieved successful outcomes throughout the years. A successful PD-first policy requires medical expertise in PD, the support of dedicated staff and a well-designed patient training programme. Addressing patients' PD problems is the key to sustainability of the PD-first policy. In this article, we highlight three important groups of patients: those with frequent peritonitis, ultrafiltration failure or inadequate dialysis. Potential strategies to improve the outcomes of these groups will be discussed. Moreover, enhancing HD as back-up support and promoting organ transplantation are needed in order to maintain sustainability of the PD-first policy.
Current Focuses in Serum Lipid Abnormalities in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Shoji Tetsuo
Published: November 2015

Background: Dyslipidemia is a common metabolic complication in patients with chronic kidney disease and is detected as changes in lipoprotein concentrations in serum. Summary: Recently, other features of lipid abnormalities have been described, such as alterations in serum n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, cholesterol metabolism (proportion of hepatic synthesis and intestinal absorption), and dysfunctional high-density lipoprotein. Key Messages: Since abnormalities of these new aspects predict adverse outcomes in hemodialysis populations, they may be helpful in risk stratification of patients and could also be new targets for prevention.
Breast Cancer Induced by X-Ray Mammography Screening? A Review Based on Recent Understanding of Low-Dose Radiobiology
Authors: Pauwels Ernest K.J. , Foray Nicolas , Bourguignon Michel H.
Published: November 2015

Screening mammography offers the possibility of discovering malignant diseases at an early stage, which is consequently treated early, thereby reducing the mortality rate. However, ionizing radiation as used in low-dose X-ray mammography may be associated with a risk of radiation-induced carcinogenesis. In the context of the harmful effects of ionizing radiation, this article reviewed novel radiobiological data and provided a simulation of the relative incidence of radiation-induced breast cancer due to screening against a background baseline incidence in a population of 100,000 individuals. The use of modern digital mammographic technology was assumed, giving rise to a glandular dose of 2.5 mGy from a 2-view per breast image. Assuming no latency time, this led to a ratio of induced incidence rate over baseline incidence rate of about 1.6‰ for biennial screening in women aged 50-74 years, although it cannot be excluded that the dose and dose rate effectiveness factor values relying on new radiobiological insights may lower this number to about 0.7‰. This carcinogenic risk is considered small in relation to the potential beneficial effects of screening, especially as latency time was not taken into consideration. However, individuals who are known to be carriers of risk-increasing genetic variations and/or have an inherited disposition of breast cancer should avoid ionizing radiation as much as possible and should be referred to ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, a significant, but difficult to quantify, risk of cancer is present for individuals who suffer from hypersusceptibility to ionizing radiation.
“Disgraced Soldiers”: The Ordeal of the Repatriated pows of the Chinese Volunteer Army from the Korean War
Authors: Zhu Pingchao
Published: November 2015

This article examines the debriefing process experienced by the repatriatedpows of the Chinese People’s Volunteers (cpv) after the Korean War. It studies three major factors that contributed to the Chinese attitude toward theirpows. First, cultural understanding focused a strong resentment upon those who returned as prisoners of war. Second, Communist ideology highly politicized the debriefing process of thecpvrepatriates and demanded severely punitive outcomes. Finally, the Chinese military’s deficientpowpolicy played a crucial role in rejecting an honorable status for the repatriatedpows. As the war ended with a ceasefire and left the nation facing lingering, unsettled issues on the Korean peninsula, the returnedcpv pows seemed to be treated as scapegoats who were made to bear the blame for the outcome of the war.
Healing and Saving Life from Starvation, Mark 2:23–26, 28, Luke 6:1–5 & Matthew 12:1–8
Authors: Collins Nina L.
Published: November 2015

This article summarizes a lengthy discussion on the story of Jesus, his disciples and the Pharisees who met together in the Galilean fields ( Collins 2014 : 27–107), exploring its historicity, rather than its source. The discussion will show that that the climax of the story, when Jesus replied to the Pharisees, is almost certainly based on an ingenious Greek translation of an existing Jewish argument, originally composed in Hebrew. This Hebrew argument justified “work” that was performed on the Sabbath in order to save life from starvation, although Sabbath “work” was (and is) otherwise forbidden by Jewish law. (According to Jewish law, any act of “healing” and/or “saving life” is regarded as “work.”) The subsequent dramatization of the argument, probably by Mark, resulted in the present fictional tale. This understanding of the story shows that the Galilean incident is not “a controversy tale” in which the historical Jesus was criticized, even vilified, by the Pharisees, as is often alleged. Instead, the author of the tale aimed to promote Jesus as the arbiter of Sabbath law, and to elevate him as an equal of the Pharisees when discussing Jewish law.
The “Spiritual Body” as Oxymoron in 1 Corinthians 15:44
Authors: Schmisek Brian
Published: November 2015

In the entire undisputed Pauline corpus, the term body is used with respect to resurrection in only two verses: 1 Corinthians 15:44 and Philippians 3:20–21. In neither case does it mean resuscitated flesh, as some theologians would have it. In Corinthians, Paul uses the rhetorical device of oxymoron in modifying the term body by “spiritual.” The oxymoron expresses the ineffability of Paul's experience of the Risen Christ, which for him is something beyond precise description.
Municipal solid waste development phases: Evidence from EU27
Authors: Vujić Goran , Gonzalez-Roof Alvaro , Stanisavljević Nemanja , Ragossnig Arne M
Published: November 2015

Many countries in the European Union (EU) have very developed waste management systems. Some of its members have managed to reduce their landfilled waste to values close to zero during the last decade. Thus, European Union legislation is very stringent regarding waste management for their members and candidate countries, too. This raises the following questions: Is it possible for developing and developed countries to comply with the European Union waste legislation, and under what conditions? How did waste management develop in relation to the economic development in the countries of the European Union? The correlation between waste management practices and economic development was analysed for 27 of the European Union Member States for the time period between 1995 and 2007. In addition, a regression analysis was performed to estimate landfilling of waste in relation to gross domestic product for every country. The results showed a strong correlation between the waste management variables and the gross domestic product of the EU27 members. The definition of the municipal solid waste management development phases followed a closer analysis of the relation between gross domestic product and landfilled waste. The municipal solid waste management phases are characterised by high landfilling rates at low gross domestic product levels, and landfilling rates near zero at high gross domestic product levels. Hence the results emphasize the importance of wider understanding of what is required for developing countries to comply with the European Union initiatives, and highlight the importance of allowing developing countries to make their own paths of waste management development.
Production of biofuels and biomolecules in the framework of circular economy: A regional case study
Authors: Jacquet Nicolas , Haubruge Eric , Richel Aurore
Published: November 2015

Faced to the economic and energetic context of our society, it is widely recognised that an alternative to fossil fuels and oil-based products will be needed in the nearest future. In this way, development of urban biorefinery could bring many solutions to this problem. Study of the implementation of urban biorefinery highlights two sustainable configurations that provide solutions to the Walloon context by promoting niche markets, developing circular economy and reducing transport of supply feedstock. First, autonomous urban biorefineries are proposed, which use biological waste for the production of added value molecules and/or finished products and are energetically self-sufficient. Second, integrated urban biorefineries, which benefit from an energy supply from a nearby industrial activity. In the Walloon economic context, these types of urban biorefineries could provide solutions by promoting niche markets, developing a circular economy model, optimise the transport of supply feedstock and contribute to the sustainable development.
Reward Performance? What Else?
Authors: Greene Robert J.
Published: November 2015

Organizations are functioning in a globalized, competitive and dynamic environment. Performance is required for survival and sustained viability. How effectively performance is defined, measured, managed and rewarded will have a significant impact on workforce performance and organizational success. Performance should be defined at the organizational, group/unit and individual levels and the definitions must be integrated with each other. And employees must view their rewards as equitable, competitive and appropriate in order for them to be motivated to extend their best efforts and to focus on meeting organizational objectives. Research demonstrates that basing rewards on performance provides motivation. But rewards must be linked to performance at the appropriate level, and must be provided in the appropriate form as well as timed to reinforce the performance. Global mobility is increasing cultural diversity and organizations should consider the beliefs and values of employees when rewarding performance
In Sickness and in Health
Authors: DeVaro Jed
Published: November 2015

Starting in July 2015, California’s Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act of 2014 mandates accrual of paid sick days for most workers employed at least 30 days per year in California. This article highlights some of the anticipated responses of workers and employers to the new law and some general considerations arising from legislated floors on paid time off.
Determinants of Share Plan Participation
Authors: Muntermann Marc , Mannert Helmut , Wolff Michael , Zschoche Ulrike
Published: November 2015

Employee share plans have become a common feature of today’s labor relations across the globe. This also applies to Siemens. Since 2009, Siemens offers an equity portfolio to almost all employees worldwide and has met with great success. Whereas the overall employee participation rate is still increasing, there is potential for participation rates to increase at a local level. To tap the full potential the “Equity Culture Enhancement Project 1.0” was developed. It proved that cost-efficient localized communication measures are the key to increase equity awareness and participation rates successfully. Now the challenge is to understand on an individual level what causes employee participation on the one hand and what keeps employees from participating on the other. The “Equity Culture Enhancement Project 1.0” was adapted to meet these objectives and the “Equity Culture Enhancement Project 2.0” was initiated. By introducing a four-step approach designed to develop the best possible communication approach in order to establish equity culture, lessons learned from the Equity Culture Enhancement Project 1.0 were taken into account and corresponding communication measures were developed. Within the used four-step approach a special emphasis was now put on analyzing and addressing individual drivers of participation and nonparticipation. The Equity Culture Enhancement Project 2.0 classifies countries according to their individual employee structure and current awareness and participation rates. Tailor-made communication measures derived from this classification were designed to meet local needs most efficiently. Effective monitoring revealed that the developed four-step approach is a successful tool to design cost-efficient and tailor-made communication measures in order to increase participation and entrepreneurial thinking in the long run.
Employee Benefit Plans Require Strong Internal Controls
Authors: Berlingieri Carlo
Published: November 2015

Employee benefit plans require strong internal controls to operate effectively and efficiently. The Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Department of Labor have given companies clear indication that they take note of plans that are governed by strong internal controls, and companies will notice more efficient, more focused examinations as a result. A strong system of internal control incorporates both preventive and detective controls to assure the plan is administered in an orderly manner, to safeguard plan assets, to deter wrongdoing, to ensure accuracy and completeness of information and to produce reliable and timely information. A strong control environment would be designed to assure the plan is run in accordance with the plan document and that funds are flowing to the correct trust or individual and according to the timing intended. This gives plan administrators a clear understanding of how the goals of the plan are being met. Good controls would assure policies and procedures are clearly established and are followed to keep the plan in compliance both with the plan document and with all relevant regulatory requirements.
Idarucizumab, a Humanized, Monoclonal Antibody Fragment for Immediate Reversal of Dabigatran
Authors: Miyares Marta A. , Kuyumjian Yara , Eaves Shannon , Dollard Eliza
Published: November 2015

Objective:

To evaluate the role of idarucizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody fragment, as a specific reversal agent for the anticoagulant activity of dabigatran and to review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetic properties, efficacy, and safety of this agent.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted consisting of a PubMed database using the MeSH term idarucizumab and the key word dabigatran antidote. Studies evaluating the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy of idarucizumab for the reversal of the anticoagulant activity of dabigatran were included.

Results:

Idarucizumab represents a novel treatment option as it is the only humanized, monoclonal antibody fragment that specifically binds to dabigatran. Studies evaluating reversal of dabigatran-induced anticoagulation have demonstrated immediate, complete, and sustained effects with idarucizumab. Idarucizumab did not overcorrect thrombin generation. Additionally, evaluations have shown that dabigatran can be safely reinitiated 24 hours after the administration of idarucizumab. The United States Food and Drug Administration granted priority review for the biologic license application and accelerated approval for idarucizumab.

Conclusion:

Idarucizumab represents an encouraging development in the reversal of dabigatran. Its novel mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, tolerability, and lack of thrombotic events contribute positively to its use in patients who experience bleeding or for those who require emergent surgery or procedures.
Félix Voisin and the genesis of abnormals
Authors: Doron Claude-Olivier
Published: November 2015

This article traces the genealogy of the category of ‘abnormals’ in psychiatry. It focuses on the French alienist Felix Voisin (1794–1872) who played a decisive role in the creation of alienist knowledge and institutions for problem children, criminals, idiots and lunatics. After a presentation of the category of ‘abnormals’ as understood at the end of the nineteenth century, I identify in the works of Voisin a key moment in the concept’s evolution. I show how, based on concepts borrowed from phrenology and applied first to idiocy, Voisin allows alienism to establish links between the medico-legal (including penitentiary) and medical-educational fields (including difficult childhood). I stress the extent to which this enterprise is related to Voisin’s humanism, which claimed to remodel pedagogy and the right to punish on the anthropological particularities of individuals, in order to improve them.
Determining organisation-specific factors for developing health interventions in companies by a Delphi procedure: Organisational Mapping
Authors: van Scheppingen Arjella R , ten Have Kristin CJM , Zwetsloot Gerard JIM , Kok Gerjo , van Mechelen Willem
Published: November 2015

Companies, seen as social communities, are major health promotion contexts. However, health promotion in the work setting is often less successful than intended. An optimal adjustment to the organisational context is required. Knowledge of which organisation-specific factors are relevant to health promotion is scarce. A Delphi procedure is used to identify these factors. The aim is to contribute to more effective workplace health promotion. The identified factors are described and embedded into a practical methodology (Intervention Mapping). A systematic use of these factors (called ‘Organisational Mapping’) is likely to contribute to more effective health promotion in the work setting.
Can Fortification be Implemented in Rural African Communities Where Micronutrient Deficiencies are Greatest? Lessons from Projects in Malawi, Tanzania, and Senegal
Authors: Mildon Alison , Klaas Naomi , O'Leary Melani , Yiannakis Miriam
Published: November 2015

Background

Fortifying common foods with micronutrients is an effective strategy for decreasing micronutrient deficiencies at a population level. National fortification initiatives often do not impact remote communities that are unreached by commercially produced food. The feasibility and sustainability of small-scale fortification as a mechanism to overcome this barrier are not well documented.

Objective

To document the process and assess the feasibility of implementation of community-based fortification of staple grains in rural communities in Malawi, Tanzania, and Senegal.

Methods

In the late 1990s, World Vision piloted community-level fortification within a large-scale, multicountry, integrated nutrition and health program. The exploratory approach focused on developing appropriate community-based methods and processes for flour fortification. An external review in 2012 documented the implementation process, identified barriers and enablers for sustainability and effectiveness, and evaluated the potential for replication and/or scale-up of the intervention.

Results

Strong advocacy influenced national policy and legislation for mandatory national-level fortification of staple grains. Piloting community-based fortification led to community acceptance of the consumption of fortified foods; however, lack of realistic funding mechanisms limited sustainability.

Conclusions

Despite the complexity and challenges of community-based fortification, it demonstrates great potential to address unmet needs for micronutrients in vulnerable populations. Further work is needed to determine contextually feasible and sustainable mechanisms for premix supply, quality control, and cost recovery. Incorporating community-based fortification into national fortification frameworks is recommended for countries where a significant proportion of the population may have very limited access to commercially fortified foods.