bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative, Prospective, and Randomized Study of Two Conservative Treatment Protocols for First-episode Lateral Ankle Ligament Injuries
Authors: Prado Marcelo Pires , Mendes Alberto Abussamra Moreira , Amodio Daniel Tasseto , Camanho Gilberto Luis , Smyth Niall A. , Fernandes Tulio Diniz
Published: January 2014

Background:

The objective of this study was to investigate functional results, the amount of time that patients missed from regular working activities, and the incidence of residual mechanical ankle instability following conservative treatment of a first episode of severe lateral ankle ligament sprain (with articular instability).

Methods:

This prospective and randomized study included 186 patients with severe lateral ankle ligament injuries, who were randomly assigned into 2 conservative treatment groups. In group A, participants were treated with a walking boot with weight-bearing allowed, pain management, ice, and elevation with restricted joint mobilization for 3 weeks. In group B, patients were treated with a functional brace for 3 weeks. After this period, patients from both groups were placed in a short, functional brace for an additional 3 weeks, during which they also started a rehabilitation program.

Results:

No statistically significant difference was found in pain intensity score between the 2 groups; however, functional evaluations based on the AOFAS ankle and hindfoot score system showed a statistically significant improvement in the group treated with the functional brace. In addition, the average recovery period necessary for patients of group B to resume their duties was shorter than that for patients in group A. No significant difference was detected in residual mechanical ankle instability between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

Patients with severe lateral ankle ligament lesions treated with a functional brace were shown to exhibit somewhat better results than those treated with a walking boot, and both methods presented a very low incidence of residual chronic instability. We found adequate conservative treatment was sufficient to reestablish ankle stability and that functional treatment had a marginally better clinical short-term outcome with a shorter average recovery period.

Level of Evidence:

Level I, prospective randomized study.
Effect of Supramalleolar Osteotomy and Total Ankle Replacement on Talar Position in the Varus Osteoarthritic Ankle
Authors: Colin Fabrice , Bolliger Lilianna , Horn Lang Tamara , Knupp Markus , Hintermann Beat
Published: January 2014

Background:

In varus osteoarthritic ankles, joint congruency is usually lost leading to progressive wear of the medial tibiotalar joint. Recent studies have shown that balancing the hindfoot with the aid of supramalleolar osteotomy (SMOT) is an effective method to decrease symptoms and to delay progression of osteoarthritis of the ankle joint. Resurfacing the articular surfaces with total ankle replacement (TAR), in contrast, may compensate for the lost joint congruency and lost stability of the talus at the peritalar joint. However, no literature exists with regard to the overall correction of talar position in all 3 planes when using these 2 treatment modalities. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of SMOT and TAR on talar position in all 3 planes, and to compare the efficiency of both procedures in restoring overall hindfoot geometry.

Methods:

Out of 104 ankles with a varus-tilted ankle, 52 patients were treated with SMOT and 52 with TAR. Weight-bearing radiographs were analyzed to measure the talar position in all 3 planes, including the talar tilt angle (TT), the sagittal talocalcaneal inclination angle (TCI), and the talometatarsal 1 angle (TMT1) pre- and postoperatively.

Results:

Although after TAR the talar position was corrected in all the 3 planes, SMOT on the other hand did not fully correct the TT, and furthermore TMT1 remained unchanged.

Conclusions:

Resurfacing of the worn-out articular surface and tensioning of ligaments, as is the case in TAR, radiographically restores the hindfoot geometry in the neutral position better than SMOT does.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Characterization of the Adenosine Pharmacology of Ticagrelor Reveals Therapeutically Relevant Inhibition of Equilibrative Nucleoside Transporter 1
Authors: Armstrong Duncan , Summers Claire , Ewart Lorna , Nylander Sven , Sidaway James E. , van Giezen J. J. J.
Published: January 2014

Introduction:

Studies have shown that ticagrelor has a further adenosine-mediated mechanism of action in addition to its potent inhibition of the P2Y12 receptor, which may explain some of ticagrelor’s clinical characteristics. This study aimed to further characterize the adenosine pharmacology of ticagrelor, its major metabolites, and other P2Y12 receptor antagonists.

Methods:

Inhibition of nucleoside transporter-mediated [3H]adenosine uptake by ticagrelor, its major metabolites, and alternative P2Y12 antagonists was examined in recombinant Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. The pharmacology of ticagrelor and its major metabolites at adenosine A1, A2A, A2B, and A3 receptor subtypes was examined using in vitro radioligand binding and functional assays and ex vivo C-fiber experiments in rat and guinea pig vagus nerves.

Results:

Ticagrelor (and less effectively its metabolites) and the main cangrelor metabolite inhibited [3H]adenosine uptake in equilibrative nucleoside transporter (ENT) 1-expressing MDCK cells, whereas cangrelor and the active metabolites of prasugrel or clopidogrel had no effect. No significant inhibitory activity was observed in MDCK cells expressing ENT2 or concentrative nucleoside transporters 2/3. Ticagrelor demonstrated high affinity (inhibition constant [Ki] = 41 nmol/L) for ENT1. In adenosine receptor-binding experiments, ticagrelor and its major circulating metabolite, AR-C124910XX, had low affinity (Ki > 6 µmol/L) for each of the adenosine A1, A2A, and A2B receptors, whereas ticagrelor had a submicromolar (Ki = 190 nmol/L) affinity for the adenosine A3 receptor. However, in functional assays, at high concentrations (10 µmol/L) ticagrelor only partially inhibited 3 mmol/L adenosine-induced depolarizations in the guinea pig and rat vagus nerve preparations (by 35% and 49%, respectively).

Conclusions:

Ticagrelor inhibits cellular adenosine uptake selectively via ENT1 inhibition at concentrations of clinical relevance. However, the low-binding affinity and functional inhibition of adenosine receptors observed with ticagrelor or its metabolites indicate that they possess a negligible adenosine-like activity at clinically relevant concentrations.
Science and National Pride
Authors: Lemańczyk Szczepan
Published: January 2014

This study is the first attempt to study media representations of nanotechnology in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Content analysis has been used to investigate the potential risks and benefits of nanotechnology, centering on the dominating frames, themes, actors, and tone and on the geographical focus of the articles published in the Iranian daily press between 2004 and 2009. The results will offer a new perspective to the ongoing discussion on the social aspects of nanotechnology, looking at it through the lens of a different culture, religion, language, and sociopolitical system.
Increased Levels of Metalloproteinase 10 and Hemostatic Markers in Patients With Noncomplicated Primary Varicose Veins
Authors: Dzieciuchowicz Lukasz , Espinosa Gaudencio , Páramo José A.
Published: January 2014

The purpose of the study was to analyze a systemic activation of hemostasis and concentration of matrix metalloproteinase 10 (MMP-10) in patients with primary varicose veins (PVVs). A study group consisted of 41 patients with noncomplicated PVVs. A control group consisted of 30 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals without varicose veins. The concentration of d-dimers (DD), prothrombin fragments 1 and 2 (F1+2), antigen of von Willebrand factor (vWF), and activity of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) in plasma and concentration of MMP-10 in serum were analyzed. In patients with PVVs, higher concentrations of DD ( P < .001), F1+2 ( P < .001), vWF ( P = .027), MMP-10 ( P = .006), and higher activity of PAI-1 ( P < .001) were observed. However, no correlation between the concentrations of MMP-10 and prothrombotic markers was found. Noncomplicated PVVs are associated with systemic, prothrombotic activation of hemostasis and increased concentration of MMP-10, suggesting a prothrombotic and proinflammatory state.
Associations of Age, Gender, and Subtypes With ADHD Symptoms and Related Comorbidity in a Danish Sample of Clinically Referred Adults
Authors: Soendergaard Helle Moeller , Thomsen Per Hove , Pedersen Erik , Pedersen Pernille , Poulsen Agnethe Elkjaer , Winther Lars , Nielsen Jette Moeskjaer , Henriksen Anne , Rungoe Berit , Soegaard Hans Joergen
Published: January 2014

Objective: The aim was to examine associations of age and gender with ADHD subtypes and subsequently to examine associations of age, gender, and subtypes with comorbid psychiatric disorders. Method: Odds ratios were calculated and logistic regression performed using information from a clinical sample of 155 ADHD adults referred to a Danish specialized ADHD unit from 2010 to 2011. Results: A majority of men (65%) was found in the sample. Most patients were subtyped ADHD combined (78%), followed by ADHD inattentive (18%), and ADHD hyperactive-impulsive (4%). No significant differences were found in gender and age across subtypes. Current comorbid disorders were found in 57% of the ADHD patients. Significantly more comorbidity was found in the ADHD combined type and in patients ≥25 years. Significantly more men had substance use disorders and significantly more women had personality disorders. Conclusion: When assessing adult ADHD patients’ age, gender, subtype, and related comorbid symptom profiles should be taken into account.
The surface characterization of microporous titanium carbide coating on titanium alloys
Authors: Luo Yong , Chai Wei , Yang Li , Tian Maocai , Xu Hao , Chen Wenwen
Published: January 2014

Surface composition, the pore size and pore distribution of microporous titanium carbide were investigated to understand the potential use of titanium alloys in the field of artificial joints. The tribological behaviours of the ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) were investigated to evaluate the potential value of microporous titanium carbide coating on titanium alloys. The result showed that the uniform microporous titanium carbide coating was formed on the substrate of titanium alloys with a porosity of 24.4% after sequential carburization. It was found that the nanohardness values of the bottom and the edges of the pore were significantly increased and kept approximately the same value. Finally, the results also revealed that microporous titanium carbide could not only decrease the friction coefficient, but also decrease the wear rate of UHMWPE.
Sun exposure and multiple sclerosis risk in Norway and Italy: The EnvIMS study
Authors: Bjørnevik Kjetil , Riise Trond , Casetta Ilaria , Drulovic Jelena , Granieri Enrico , Holmøy Trygve , Kampman Margitta T , Landtblom Anne-Marie , Lauer Klaus , Lossius Andreas , Magalhaes Sandra , Myhr Kjell-Morten , Pekmezovic Tatjana , Wesnes Kristin , Wolfson Christina , Pugliatti Maura
Published: January 2014

Objectives:

The objective of this paper is to estimate the association between multiple sclerosis (MS) and measures of sun exposure in specific age periods in Norway and Italy.

Methods:

A total of 1660 MS patients and 3050 controls from Italy and Norway who participated in a multinational case-control study (EnvIMS) reported sun habits during childhood and adolescence.

Results:

A significant association between infrequent summer outdoor activity and increased MS risk was found in Norway and in Italy. The association was strongest between the ages of 16 and 18 years in Norway (odds ratio (OR) 1.83, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.30–2.59), and between birth and age 5 years in Italy (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.16–2.10). In Italy a significant association was also found during winter (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.03–1.97). Frequent sunscreen use between birth and the age of 6 years was associated with MS in Norway (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.08–1.93) after adjusting for outdoor activity during the same period. Red hair (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.06–2.63) and blonde hair (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.09–1.70) were associated with MS after adjusting for outdoor activity and sunscreen use.

Conclusion:

Converging evidence from different measures underlines the beneficial effect of sun exposure on MS risk.
Changing strategies in grassroots canvassing
Authors: Beck Paul A , Heidemann Erik D
Published: January 2014

Grassroots party contacts with voters have again become an important feature of presidential campaigns. In a bygone era, mobilization efforts were the work of local party organizations – the product of their various capabilities and needs and, consequently, less systematically patterned across the country. With the demise of these organizations, grassroots contacts declined, reaching only 18 percent of the electorate by 1992, before rebounding to over 40 percent by 2008. Using respondent reports of party contacts from the American National Election Studies, this article documents how the recent surge in mobilization is tied to the strategic priorities of the national parties and presidential campaigns. They concentrate their efforts on the most likely voters in the most competitive ‘battleground’ states, resulting in both positive and negative consequences for American democracy. In ramping up party contacts, who is contacted has changed, becoming more readily predictable, and the American electoral process has been transformed.
The 60 most highly cited articles published in the Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare and Telemedicine Journal and E-health
Authors: Askari Azam , Khodaie Mahdieh , Bahaadinbeigy Kambiz
Published: January 2014

Summary

We analysed the most highly cited articles in two specialist telemedicine journals, the Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare (JTT) and Telemedicine Journal and E-health (TJEH). Articles were extracted from the Science Citation Index Expanded in September 2012. A total of 1810 articles were listed for the JTT and 1550 for TJEH. In the JTT, the mean number of citations was 43 (SD 13); in TJEH the mean number of citations was 30 (SD 11). The average number of citations for the JTT was significantly higher than for TJEH ( P < 0.001). In each journal, the 60 articles which had the most citations were identified as highly cited publications (HCPs). The 60 HCPs in the JTT originated from 16 countries; the 60 HCPs in TJEH originated from 10 countries. Considering both journals together, the majority of HCPs came from the US, UK, Australia and Canada. In the JTT, the mean number of authors for each HCP was 4.6 (SD = 3.1); in TJEH, the mean number of authors for each HCP was 4.5 (SD = 2.3). There was no difference between the two journals ( P = 0.84) and the characteristics of the HCPs published in the JTT and TJEH were broadly similar. Although HCPs are not a direct method of measuring quality, they are an indicator of the scientific impact of the articles.
The added value of the combined use of the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule: Diagnostic validity in a clinical Swedish sample of toddlers and young preschoolers
Authors: Zander Eric , Sturm Harald , Bölte Sven
Published: January 2014

The diagnostic validity of the new research algorithms of the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised and the revised algorithms of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule was examined in a clinical sample of children aged 18–47 months. Validity was determined for each instrument separately and their combination against a clinical consensus diagnosis. A total of N = 268 children ( n = 171 with autism spectrum disorder) were assessed. The new Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised algorithms (research cutoff) gave excellent specificities (91%−96%) but low sensitivities (44%−52%). Applying adjusted cutoffs (lower than recommended based on receiver operating characteristics) yielded a better balance between sensitivity (77%−82%) and specificity (60%−62%). Findings for the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule were consistent with previous studies showing high sensitivity (94%−100%) and alongside lower specificity (52%−76%) when using the autism spectrum cutoff, but better balanced sensitivity (81%−94%) and specificity (81%−83%) when using the autism cutoff. A combination of both the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised (with adjusted cutoff) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (autism spectrum cutoff) yielded balanced sensitivity (77%−80%) and specificity (87%−90%). Results favor a combined usage of the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule in young children with unclear developmental problems, including suspicion of autism spectrum disorder. Evaluated separately, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (cutoff for autism) provides a better diagnostic accuracy than the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised.
From performance to politics? Constructing public and counterpublic in the singing of red songs
Authors: Qian Junxi
Published: January 2014

This article uses the conceptual constructs of ‘public’ and ‘counterpublic’ to examine the collective singing of ‘Red Songs’, a state-approved, ideology-laden popular culture, in the city of Guangzhou, China. It approaches these two concepts from actions, practices and shared meanings which render the public/counterpublic visible and concrete. In Guangzhou, the interplays between hegemonic ideas expressed in the red songs and ordinary singers’ agency of re-interpreting and re-reading have shaped the fluidity and complexity of the cultural meanings and political discourses in which this grassroots public dwells. Singers do not simply re-assert the post-reform party-state’s political legitimacy by expressing political allegiance via red songs, but also creatively reconstruct and re-appropriate the meanings woven into red songs to critically reflect upon the social, cultural and moral transformations, as well as new cultural and ethical zeitgeists in the post-reform context. In the meantime, red song singing is also appropriated by New Leftist activists for cultivating new counterpublic political potentials.
Beyond antifandom: Cheerleading, textual hate and new media ethics
Authors: Jane Emma A
Published: January 2014

Drawing on a case study involving mediated vitriol targeting cheerleaders, this article identifies two potentially problematic aspects of the media studies concept of antifandom. First, it critiques the classification of vitriolic texts produced by antifans as belonging primarily to the field of audiences and reception. It argues that this move risks sidelining the fact that antifan discourse also constitutes a set of influential texts authored by a group of powerful textual producers. Second, it questions the designation of the human targets of antifandom as texts. This risks underplaying the ethical dimensions of the en masse articulation of vitriol towards human targets.
The interaction between compression ratio, boosting and variable valve actuation for high load homogeneous charge compression ignition: A modeling study
Authors: Mamalis Sotirios , Babajimopoulos Aristotelis , Guralp Orgun , Najt Paul M , Assanis Dennis N
Published: January 2014

This study discusses a novel approach toward homogeneous charge compression ignition operation in the 5 - 10 bar net indicated mean effective pressure range. This approach is based on the combination of boosting and variable valve actuation to maximize engine efficiency. Compression ratio plays a key role and determines low-temperature combustion feasibility in modern gasoline compression ignition concepts. In order to explore the interactions between compression ratio, boosting system and variable valve actuation, multi-cylinder engine models were utilized which employed the University of Michigan combustion model. Valve strategies featured switching from low-lift negative valve overlap to high-lift positive valve overlap, and the switching point was found to be dependent on compression ratio. A recent study by the authors suggested that heating the charge from external compression is more efficient than heating by residual gas retention strategies. Use of non-cooled intake air allows for valve events and combustion phasing that promote turbocharger performance and alleviate the backpressure problems often associated with low temperature combustion engines. Elevated intake pressure and reduced pumping work allow for improvements in efficiency with minimal NOx formation and acceptable ringing. It was found that further efficiency benefits can be realized by increasing compression ratio. Identification of trade-offs between engine hardware and combustion mode appears to be critical for homogeneous charge compression ignition operation in the 5 -10 bar net indicated mean effective pressure range. By focusing on this operating range, the present modeling study attempts to shed some light on practical applications of light-duty gasoline compression ignition concepts.
Land administration, planning and human rights
Authors: Enemark Stig , Hvingel Line , Galland Daniel
Published: January 2014

The people-to-land relationship is dynamic and changes over time in response to cultural, social and economic development. Land policies, institutions and land administration systems are key tools aimed at governing this relationship. Such tools will normally include the means for allocating and controlling rights, restrictions and responsibilities in land – often termed RRRs. Each of the rights, restrictions and responsibilities encompasses a human rights dimension that should be seen and unfolded as more than just political rhetoric. This article attempts to analyse the aspect of human rights in relation to land administration systems with a special focus on less developed countries struggling to build adequate systems for governing the rights, restrictions and responsibilities in land. In doing so, the article conceives planning as a key function and means of land administration systems by which human rights should be underpinned in solving concrete land issues.
Investing in HRD in Uncertain Times Now and in the Future
Authors: Cascio Wayne F.
Published: January 2014

The Problem

We live in uncertain times, exacerbated by many direct and indirect effects of the global financial crisis. However, there is a lack of understanding about how human resource development (HRD) is responding to the global financial crisis or how HRD scholars and practitioners can best respond to these new realities and thus successfully ensure the future of HRD.

The Solution

To appreciate the future, it is critical to understand the past. Thus, this reflective piece outlines several factors that have caused, and continue to cause, uncertainty in the global economy, including structural changes in labor markets and developments in technology. A literature review revealed several HRD responses of firms to these new realities. These include technology-delivered instruction and social-learning tools. The article concludes by identifying characteristics of effective training and examines some distinctive practices of three firms that have been recognized as the global best in class for their leadership-development efforts.

The Stakeholders

Scholars and practitioners interested in the HRD, technology-delivered instruction, and social-learning fields.
An Intergenerational Choir Formed to Lessen Alzheimer’s Disease Stigma in College Students and Decrease the Social Isolation of People With Alzheimer’s Disease and Their Family Members
Authors: Harris Phyllis Braudy , Caporella Cynthia Anne
Published: January 2014

The intergenerational choir was formed for the purpose of combating the stigma of Alzheimer's disease in college students, and in that process also lessening the social isolation of people with AD and their family members. The choir was composed of 13 college students and 13 people with AD and a family member. Data from the college students were gathered through semi-structured open-ended questions on attitudes and knowledge about AD, collected at three points in time over 8 weeks of rehearsals. Data were collected from the people with AD and their family members through a focus group and observations over 8 weeks of rehearsals. Results a show a decrease in social isolation for the older choir members, and for the college students: a decrease in negative attitudes, an increase in positive attitudes and themes of - recognizing capabilities, expanded understanding of AD, reduced stigma, and reduced social discomfort.
More Education May Limit Disability and Extend Life For People With Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Laditka Sarah B. , Laditka James N.
Published: January 2014

Education is associated with longer life and less disability. Living longer increases risks of cognitive impairment, often producing disability. We examined associations among education, disability, and life expectancy for people with cognitive impairment, following a 1992 cohort ages 55+ for 23 063 person-years (Panel Study of Income Dynamics, n = 2165). We estimated monthly probabilities of disability and death for 7 education levels, adjusting for age, gender, ethnicity, and cognitive status. We used the probabilities to simulate populations with age-specific cognitive impairment incidence and monthly disability status through death. For those with cognitive impairment, education was associated with longer life and less disability. Among them, college-educated white women lived 3.2 more years than those with <8 years education, disabled 24.4% of life from age 55 compared with 36.7% ( P < .0001). Increasing education will lengthen lives. Living longer, more people will have cognitive impairment. Education may limit their risk of disability and its duration.
Nasal NSAIDs for Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Lehrer Steven
Published: January 2014

Alzheimer’s disease may result from low-grade inflammation of the brain, and the characteristic amyloid β may be a protective response. Epidemiological observation indicates that long-term oral administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen to patients having rheumatoid arthritis results in reduced risk and delayed onset of Alzheimer's disease. However, oral ibuprofen, flurbiprofen, and other NSAIDs are not an effective treatment. The NSAIDs may work as an Alzheimer’s preventive but not a treatment because the oral dose to the brain is too small, 1% to 2% of the total plasma concentration. The NSAID brain dose could be significantly increased by delivering the drug intranasally. Flurbiprofen would be preferable to ibuprofen because flurbiprofen has 12½ times the potency of ibuprofen. The smaller nasal dose of flurbiprofen than ibuprofen could significantly increase patient compliance. Alzheimer’s disease starts in the entorhinal cortex, which is closely connected to the olfactory nerves, and spreads anatomically in a defined pattern. Therefore, a nasal NSAID would readily reach the region of the brain where it is most likely to be therapeutic.
The regulatory T cell effector soluble fibrinogen-like protein 2 induces tubular epithelial cell apoptosis in renal transplantation
Authors: Zhao Zitong , Yang Cheng , Wang Lingyan , Li Long , Zhao Tian , Hu Linkun , Rong Ruiming , Xu Ming , Zhu Tongyu
Published: January 2014

Acute rejection (AR) hinders renal allograft survival. Tubular epithelial cell (TEC) apoptosis contributes to premature graft loss in AR, while the mechanism remains unclear. Soluble fibrinogen-like protein 2 (sFGL2), a novel effector of regulatory T cells (Treg), induces apoptosis to mediate tissue injury. We previously found that serum sFGL2 significantly increased in renal allograft rejection patients. In this study, the role of sFGL2 in AR was further investigated both in vivo and in vitro. The serum level of sFGL2 and the percentage of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg in the peripheral blood were measured in renal allograft recipients with AR or stable renal function ( n = 30 per group). The human TEC was stimulated with sFGL2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, or phosphate buffered saline and investigated for apoptosis in vitro. Apoptosis-associated genes expression in TEC was further assessed. Approval for this study was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Fudan University. Our results showed that the serum level of sFGL2, correlated with Treg in the peripheral blood, was significantly increased in the AR patients. In vitro, sFGL2 remarkably induced TEC apoptosis, with a significant up-regulation of proapoptotic genes, including CASP-3, CASP-8, CASP-9, CASP-10, TRADD, TNFSF10, FADD, FAS, FASLG, BAK1, BAD, BAX, and NF-KB1. However, no significant changes were observed in the expression of antiapoptotic genes, including CARD-18, NAIP, BCL2, IKBKB, and TBK1. Therefore, sFGL2, an effector of Treg, induces TEC apoptosis. Our study suggests that sFGL2 is a potential mediator in the pathogenesis of allograft rejection and provides novel insights into the role of Treg in AR.
How Electroencephalography Serves the Anesthesiologist
Authors: Marchant Nicolas , Sanders Robert , Sleigh Jamie , Vanhaudenhuyse Audrey , Bruno Marie-Aurélie , Brichant Jean François , Laureys Steven , Bonhomme Vincent
Published: January 2014

Major clinical endpoints of general anesthesia, such as the alteration of consciousness, are achieved through effects of anesthetic agents on the central nervous system, and, more precisely, on the brain. Historically, clinicians and researchers have always been interested in quantifying and characterizing those effects through recordings of surface brain electrical activity, namely electroencephalography (EEG). Over decades of research, the complex signal has been dissected to extract its core substance, with significant advances in the interpretation of the information it may contain. Methodological, engineering, statistical, mathematical, and computer progress now furnishes advanced tools that not only allow quantification of the effects of anesthesia, but also shed light on some aspects of anesthetic mechanisms. In this article, we will review how advanced EEG serves the anesthesiologist in that respect, but will not review other intraoperative utilities that have no direct relationship with consciousness, such as monitoring of brain and spinal cord integrity. We will start with a reminder of anesthestic effects on raw EEG and its time and frequency domain components, as well as a summary of the EEG analysis techniques of use for the anesthesiologist. This will introduce the description of the use of EEG to assess the depth of the hypnotic and anti-nociceptive components of anesthesia, and its clinical utility. The last part will describe the use of EEG for the understanding of mechanisms of anesthesia-induced alteration of consciousness. We will see how, eventually in association with transcranial magnetic stimulation, it allows exploring functional cerebral networks during anesthesia. We will also see how EEG recordings during anesthesia, and their sophisticated analysis, may help corroborate current theories of mental content generation.
“Aren’t Labels for Pickle Jars, Not People?” Negotiating Identity and Community in Talk About ‘Being Gay’
Authors: Adams Jeffery , Braun Virginia , McCreanor Tim
Published: January 2014

Understanding how people in any given population think about and experience their sexuality is fundamental to developing and implementing good health policy, research, and practice. Yet despite several decades of focus on sexual identity and HIV risk within health research, gay men as a category are often treated in an uncomplicated way. This article reports on focus group discussions held with 45 gay and other men who have sex with men in New Zealand to identify how they talked about issues of gay identity and gay community/ies. The men negotiated and renegotiated their gay identity and being gay was reported as just one part of most men’s lives. Many men did not like to be labeled as gay and downplayed aspects of their gay identity. Only a few men proclaimed being gay. Men reported very mixed experiences with the gay community/ies. Understanding how men experience being gay, provides information vital to enhancing policy, research and practice responses to gay men’s health issues. A major challenge for health service provision to appropriately engage with men who have sex with other men but resist being labeled as gay was identified.
A Theory of Vulnerability-based Morality
Authors: Dijker Anton J. M.
Published: January 2014

The recent introduction of the concepts of tenderness, vulnerability, and parental care in the field of moral emotions has brought us closer to an understanding of the underlying mechanisms, but has not yet resulted in a systematic evolutionary and proximate analysis. Applying such an analysis, the present article proposes a hypothetical care mechanism that produces different motivational states or moral emotions (e.g., tenderness, sympathy, guilt, moral anger) in response to individuals perceived as vulnerable. The mechanism consists of a care system automatically triggered by vulnerability cues, a system for defense and aggression, and a process of causally attributing changes in the vulnerable object’s well-being. The mechanism may also be useful in explaining moral responses in domains other than harm prevention.
Liposomal vincristine for relapsed or refractory Ph-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a review of literature
Authors: Pathak Priyanka , Hess Rosemary , Weiss Mark A.
Published: January 2014

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a heterogeneous group of hematologic malignancies that arise from clonal proliferation of immature lymphoid cells in the bone marrow, peripheral blood and other organs. There are approximately 3000 new adult cases diagnosed every year in the United States with a 5-year overall survival ranging from 22% to 50%. Most adult patients with ALL who achieve a complete response will ultimately relapse and for this subset of patients the only hope of curative therapy is successful re-induction to achieve a complete response followed by allogeneic transplant. Conventional vincristine has been used in all phases of ALL therapy but its efficacy is limited by cumulative toxicity, typically neuropathic in nature. Historically, the dose of conventional vincristine has been capped at 2 mg to avoid severe neurotoxicity. Liposomal vincristine [as vincristine sulfate liposomal injection (VSLI)] constitutes encapsulating vincristine in a sphingomyelin/cholesterol envelope. This process is thought to enhance drug delivery to the target tissues, decrease neurotoxicity by reducing the percentage of free drug in the plasma and therefore results in increased efficacy with acceptable toxicity. Results from recent trials using VSLI in the setting of relapsed/refractory Ph-negative ALL have been encouraging. VSLI as salvage monotherapy has been successful in inducing complete responses in a minority of adults with relapsed/refractory ALL so that they can be bridged to stem-cell transplantation. Rigorous post-approval testing needs to be conducted to clarify its utility in the clinic.
Fournier’s gangrene: outcome analysis of 62 consecutive cases
Authors: El-Shazly M , Sultan M , Salem S , Alkandari I , Shebl M
Published: January 2014

Objectives:

The objective of this article is to study the outcome of management of 62 consecutive cases of Fournier’s gangrene (FG).

Patients and methods:

We conducted an observational study of all cases of FG admitted to the Urology and General Surgery departments of Farwaniya Hospital, Kuwait, between 2004 and 2013. We recorded the laboratory and clinical findings on admission. Operative and postoperative data were also recorded.

Results:

Our study included 62 cases of FG. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (survival) consisted of 55 cases and Group B (mortality) of seven cases. The mean duration of symptoms before admission was significantly longer in the mortality group (3.86 days versus 1.96 days in survival group) ( p < 0.05). The mean duration of symptoms until time of first debridement was also significantly longer in the mortality group (4.39 days versus 2.35 days in survival group) ( p < 0.05). There was also a statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the percentage of the affected area in relation to total body surface area (4.6% in Group A versus 8% in Group B) ( p < 0.05). The Fournier Gangrene Severity Index score (FGSI) was significantly higher in Group B (10.26) in comparison to Group A (6) ( p < 0.01). The mean duration of hospital stay was significantly higher in the survival group (22.24 days versus 14.28 days) ( p < 0.01). Diabetes and renal failure were significantly higher in the mortality group (100% and 57.1% in Group B versus 54.5% and 9.1% in Group A, respectively) ( p < 0.05). The number of patients presenting with severe sepsis was higher in the mortality group (71.4% in Group B versus 12.7% in Group A) ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

We concluded that FG is a serious, potentially fatal disease. Higher mortality is related to severe sepsis on admission, renal failure, diabetes, extensive disease involving extra-genital areas and late presentation. A multidisciplinary approach in diagnosis and management of the disease can achieve good outcome with low mortality rate.
Oral D-mannose in recurrent urinary tract infections in women: a pilot study
Authors: Porru D , Parmigiani A , Tinelli C , Barletta D , Choussos D , Di Franco C , Bobbi V , Bassi S , Miller O , Gardella B , Nappi RE , Spinillo A , Rovereto B
Published: January 2014

Background:

In recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) usual prophylactic antibiotic regimes do not change the long-term risk of recurrence. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of D-mannose in the treatment and prophylaxis of recurrent UTIs.

Methods:

In this randomized cross-over trial female patients were eligible for the study if they had an acute symptomatic UTI and three or more recurrent UTIs during the preceding 12 months. Suitable patients were randomly assigned to antibiotic treatment with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole or to a regimen of oral D-mannose 1 g 3 times a day, every 8 hours for 2 weeks, and subsequently 1 g twice a day for 22 weeks. They received the other intervention in the second phase of the study, with no further antibiotic prophylaxis. The primary endpoint was evaluation of the elapsed time to recurrence; secondary endpoints were evaluation of bladder pain (VASp) and urinary urgency (VASu).

Results:

The results for quantitative variables were expressed as mean values and SD as they were all normally distributed (Shapiro–Wilk test). In total, 60 patients aged between 22 and 54 years (mean 42 years) were included. Mean time to UTI recurrence was 52.7 days with antibiotic treatment, and 200 days with oral D-mannose ( p < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

Mean VASp, VASu score, and average numbers of 24-hour voidings decreased significantly. D-mannose appeared to be a safe and effective treatment for recurrent UTIs in adult women. A significant difference was observed in the proportion of women remaining infection free versus antibiotic treatment.
Young Children’s Engagement With E-Books at School
Authors: Roskos Kathleen , Burstein Karen , Shang Yi , Gray Emily
Published: January 2014

Differences between digital devices on children’s engagement with e-books are examined. The sample included 24 typical 4-year olds enrolled in Head Start. Over a 1-month period, video captures of children’s multi-sensory behaviors during shared reading at a tabletop touchscreen computer and teacher-facilitated book browsing with iPads and iPods were obtained. Data were coded on each child at 1-min intervals, examining the simultaneity of behaviors present, then aggregated to determine frequencies of each behavior by device and format. Differences between media devices on median percent of observation time were evaluated. Looking, touching, moving, and gesturing behaviors were significantly different among different devices. Large effect sizes indicated considerable variability attributable to the device. Mobiles support more looking and touching but less moving and gesturing than the tabletop touchscreen; none of the devices favored listening over another. Given the role of haptic perception in digital reading experience, access to mobiles may favor behaviors that support literacy motivation, sense of control, and interaction.
Public Perceptions and Attitudes Toward Adolescent Marijuana Use
Authors: Resko Stella M.
Published: January 2014

The purpose of the current study is to examine patterns in public perceptions and attitudes toward marijuana use among adolescents. Computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) was used to collect data from a statewide sample of adults in Michigan identified through random-digit dialing ( n = 560). CATI interviews were supplemented with web- and paper-based surveys for nonrespondents. We used latent class analysis to characterize patterns in public perception, using a vignette technique that assessed (a) whether adults recognize adolescent marijuana use as a problem, (b) how they view the efficacy of treatment, (c) how they view help-seeking with mental health professionals, and (d) whether they support prevention services for adolescents. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between class membership and demographics, substance use, and methodological factors. Three latent classes were identified: (a) a discriminating group, (b) a low-concern group, and (c) a high-concern group. Age and substance use were among the strongest determinants for membership in the discriminating group. Results provide insight into how the general public perceives marijuana use and marijuana-related problems among adolescents.
Learning Transfer in English for General Academic Purposes Writing
Authors: Zarei Gholam Reza , Rahimi Ali
Published: January 2014

This article was launched to investigate if learning from an English for General Academic Purposes (EGAP) writing course transfers to other writing contexts. The study focused on the issue of transfer across disciplines, tasks, and two languages (English and Persian). The data were collected through interviews and writing samples from the participants’ own EGAP class and their other courses in the university (non-EGAP). The interviews were transcribed and coded for the self-reports of learning transfer, and the writing samples were analyzed for the 10 learning outcomes already instructed in the class. The results demonstrated that transfer of learning was variably achieved within interview-based transcriptions and writing samples, though to a varying degree. Showing high degree of conformity and a roughly similar general regularity, both series of data indicate that learning transfer does occur, though inconsistently, across disciplines, tasks, and the two languages.
Person-Oriented Conception of Happiness and Some Personality Theories
Authors: Levit Leonid Z.
Published: January 2014

Person-oriented conception of happiness (POCH) worked out by the author of the article is based on the ideas of systemic approach. The model also serves as valuable personality theory integrating essential elements of the conceptions of Z. Freud, C. Jung, A. Maslow, C. Rogers, and some other scientists. We show how to solve some problems of modern psychology within POCH, and outline perspectives of further investigations. For the first time in world psychology, such concepts as “Egoism” and “Personal Uniqueness” are represented as multilevel systems. Their productive interaction at the higher levels helps a person achieve full-fledged, happy life.
Impediments to Information and Knowledge Sharing Within Policing
Authors: Abrahamson Douglas Edward , Goodman-Delahunty Jane
Published: January 2014

Information sharing is the lifeblood of policing, yet information/knowledge sharing within and across organizations remains problematic. This article elaborated on previous research on organizational information culture and its impact on information use outcomes in policing by examining perceived impediments to information sharing of 134 officers in three Canadian police organizations. Inductive qualitative analysis of an open-ended question revealed seven mutually exclusive impediment themes: processes/technology, individual unwillingness, organizational unwillingness, workload/overload, location/structure, leadership, and risk management. When viewed from the knowledge management infrastructure perspective, organizational structure was the single most common impediment identified, followed closely by organizational culture. Each organization had unique constellations of information sharing impediments. Recommendations for policy and practice are discussed.
Incidental Findings in Stress Echocardiography
Authors: Kallstrom Eric , Rivera Jose , Hukill Amber
Published: January 2014

Sonographic follow-up of surgical or other invasive procedures may lead to incidental findings, and knowledge of a patient’s treatment history is an important factor in properly interpreting these results. The treatment regimen for a patient with deep vein thrombosis and its sequelae can include a combination of anticoagulation, thrombolytic therapy, compression stocking, venous bypass, and stenting of the veins. This case presents an incidental finding during a stress echo examination of embolization into the right ventricle of a previously placed iliofemoral venous stent that required surgical removal. It provides an example of the reasons that sonographers need to understand patient history as well as examination protocols to properly evaluate the sonographic images and to anticipate that there may be unexpected findings with every case.
Differentiation therapy for the treatment of t(8;21) acute myeloid leukemia using histone deacetylase inhibitors
Authors: Bots Michael , Verbrugge Inge , Martin Benjamin P. , Salmon Jessica M. , Ghisi Margherita , Baker Adele , Stanley Kym , Shortt Jake , Ossenkoppele Gert J. , Zuber Johannes , Rappaport Amy R. , Atadja Peter , Lowe Scott W. , Johnstone Ricky W.
Published: January 2014

Key Points

HDACi-mediated differentiation therapy is a potent and molecularly rational treatment strategy in t(8;21) AML.
Association of the RYR3 gene polymorphisms with atherosclerosis in elderly Japanese population
Authors: Zhao Chenxi , Ikeda Shinobu , Arai Tomio , Naka-Mieno Makiko , Sato Noriko , Muramatsu Masaaki , Sawabe Motoji
Published: January 2014

Background

The Ryanodine receptor 3 gene (RYR3) encodes an intracellular calcium channel that mediates the efflux of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the RYR3 gene have been shown to associate with stroke (rs877087) and carotid intima-media thickness (rs2229116) in two independent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in Caucasian. We investigated the effect of these two SNPs as well as the 31.1 kilobases spanning region on atherosclerosis in Japanese population.

Methods

Atherosclerotic severity was assessed by carotid artery (n = 1374) and pathological atherosclerosis index (PAI) (n = 1262), which is a macroscopic examination of the luminal surfaces of 8 systemic arteries in consecutive autopsy samples. 4 tag SNPs in the 31.1 Kb region, rs877087, rs2132207, rs658750 and rs2229116, were genotyped and haplotypes were inferred to study the association with atherosclerotic indices.

Results

rs877087 and rs2229116 were associated with PAI (OR = 2.07 [1.04-4.12] (95% CI), p = 0.038; and OR = 1.38 [1.02-1.86], p = 0.035, respectively). rs2229116 was also associated with common carotid atherosclerosis (OR = 1.45 [1.13-1.86], p = 0.003). The risk allele of rs2229116 was opposite from the original report. The haplotype block of this 31.1 Kb region was different between Caucasian and Japanese. Haplotype analysis revealed that only TAGG haplotype was associated with PAI (OR = 0.67 [0.48-0.94], p = 0.020) and atherosclerosis of common carotid artery (OR = 0.75 [0.58-0.98], p = 0.034).

Conclusion

rs877087 and rs2229116 of RYR3 gene are associated with atherosclerosis severity in Japanese. The functional difference caused by rs2229116 needs to be investigated.