bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maya Cultural Resistance in Los Angeles
Authors: Batz Giovanni
Published: April 2014

The migration of thousands of Guatemalan Maya due to political violence and poverty since the 1970s has led to the establishment of various diasporic communities throughout the United States. A frequent destination for the Maya is Los Angeles, California, where they are confronted with pressure to adapt to an environment that is predominantly Latino/Hispanic. Maya identity, expressed through the use of traditional dress, language, literature, and spirituality, is challenged by Euro-American culture, which discriminates against these customs. These conditions are more severe for Maya children, who face difficulties in maintaining their heritage as public education socializes them into U.S. culture and history. The children of Maya in Los Angeles are recovering their identity and culture through music, religion, literature, and language, resisting imposed identities and reaffirming their Maya roots.

La migración de miles de mayas guatemaltecos debido a la pobreza y la violencia política desde los años setenta ha llevado al establecimiento de varias comunidades diaspóricas en todo Estados Unidos. Los Angeles, California, es un destino frecuente donde los mayas se enfrentan a la presión de adaptarse a un entorno predominantemente latino/hispano. La identidad maya, que se expresa mediante el uso del traje (ropa maya), la lengua, la literatura y la espiritualidad, es desafiada por la cultura euro-americana, que discrimina en contra de estas costumbres. Estas condiciones son más severas para los niños mayas, que enfrentan dificultades para mantener su patrimonio dado que la educación pública les socializa como parte de la cultura e historia estadounidenses. Los niños mayas en Los Angeles están recuperando su identidad y su cultura a través de la música, religión, literatura y lengua, resistiendo las identidades impuestas y reafirmando sus raíces.
Development of a Mapped Diabetes Community Program Guide for a Safety Net Population
Authors: Zallman Leah , Ibekwe Lynn , Thompson Jennifer , Ross-Degnan Dennis , Oken Emily
Published: April 2014

Purpose

Enhancing linkages between patients and community programs is increasingly recognized as a method for improving physical activity, nutrition, and weight management. Although interactive mapped community program guides may be beneficial, there remains a dearth of articles that describe the processes and practicalities of creating such guides. This article describes the development of an interactive web-based mapped community program guide at a safety net institution and the lessons learned from that process.

Conclusions

This project demonstrated the feasibility of creating 2 maps: a program guide and a population health map. It also revealed some key challenges and lessons for future work in this area, particularly within safety net institutions. Our work underscores the need for developing partnerships outside the health care system and the importance of employing community-based participatory methods. In addition to facilitating improvements in individual wellness, mapping community programs has the potential to improve population health management by health care delivery systems such as hospitals, health centers, or public health systems, including city and state departments of health.
Evaluating and Quantifying the Specific Deterrent Effects of DNA Databases
Authors: Bhati Avinash , Roman Caterina G.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Today, the ability of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence to place persons at crime scenes with near certainty is broadly accepted by criminal investigators, courts, policy makers, and the public. However, the public safety benefits of investments in DNA databases are largely unknown and research attempting to quantify these benefits is only gradually emerging. Given the inherent difficulty in randomly assigning offenders to treatment and comparison groups for the purpose of inferring specific deterrence and probative effects (PREs) of DNA databases, this study developed an alternate strategy for extracting these effects from transactional data.

Research Design:

Reoffending patterns of a large cohort of offenders released from the Florida Department of Corrections custody between 1996 and 2004 were analyzed across a range of criminal offense categories. First, an identification strategy using multiple clock models was developed that linked the two simultaneous effects of DNA databases to different clocks measuring the same events. Then, a semiparametric approach was developed for estimating the models.

Results:

The estimation models yielded mixed results. Small deterrent effects—2–3% reductions in recidivism risk attributable to deterrence—were found only for robbery and burglary. However, strong PREs—20–30% increase in recidivism risk attributable to PREs—were uncovered for most offense categories.

Conclusion:

The probative and deterrent effects of DNA databases can be elucidated through innovative semiparametric models.
Salesperson Ethics
Authors: Castleberry Stephen
Published: April 2014

A new interactive computer simulation designed to teach sales ethics is described. Simulation learner objectives include gaining a better understanding of legal issues in selling; realizing that ethical dilemmas do arise in selling; realizing the need to be honest when selling; seeing that there are conflicting demands from a salesperson’s company, customers, and colleagues; and experiencing some of the challenges of selling. Assessment results suggest each objective was met, for both males and females. A description of how this and other simulations can be effectively used in sales courses is provided.
Ligamentous Injuries and the Risk of Associated Tissue Damage in Acute Ankle Sprains in Athletes
Authors: Roemer Frank W. , Jomaah Nabil , Niu Jingbo , Almusa Emad , Roger Bernard , D’Hooghe Pieter , Geertsema Celeste , Tol Johannes L. , Khan Karim , Guermazi Ali
Published: April 2014

Background:

Ankle joint injuries are extremely common sports injuries, with the anterior talofibular ligament involved in the majority of ankle sprains. There have been only a few large magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies on associated structural injuries after ankle sprains.

Purpose:

To describe the injury pattern in athletes who were referred to MRI for the assessment of an acute ankle sprain and to assess the risk of associated traumatic tissue damage including lateral and syndesmotic ligament involvement.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 261 ankle MRI scans of athletes with acute ankle sprains were evaluated for: lateral and syndesmotic ligament injury; concomitant injuries to the deltoid and spring ligaments and sinus tarsi; peroneal, flexor, and extensor retinacula and tendons; traumatic and nontraumatic osteochondral and osseous changes; and joint effusion. Patients were on average 22.5 years old, and the average time from injury to MRI was 5.7 days. Six exclusive injury patterns were defined based on lateral and syndesmotic ligament involvement. The risk for associated injuries was assessed by logistic regression using ankles with no or only low-grade lateral ligament injuries and no syndesmotic ligament damage as the reference.

Results:

With regard to the injury pattern, there were 103 ankles (39.5%) with complete anterior talofibular ligament disruption and no syndesmotic injury, and 53 ankles (20.3%) had a syndesmotic injury with or without lateral ligament damage. Acute osteochondral lesions of the lateral talar dome were seen in 20 ankles (7.7%). The percentage of chronic lateral osteochondral lesions was 1.1%. The risk for talar bone contusions increased more than 3-fold for ankles with complete lateral ligament ruptures (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.43; 95% CI, 1.72-6.85) but not for ankles with syndesmotic involvement. The risk for associated deltoid ligament injuries increased for ankles with complete lateral ligament injuries (aOR, 4.04; 95% CI, 1.99-8.22) compared with patients with no or only low-grade lateral ligament injuries.

Conclusion:

About 20% of athletes referred for MRI after suffering an acute ankle sprain had evidence of a syndesmotic injury regardless of lateral ligament involvement, while more than half had evidence of any lateral ligament injury without syndesmotic involvement. Concomitant talar osseous and deltoid ligament injuries are common.
What Factors Influence the Relationship Between Feedback on Cognitive Performance and Subsequent Driving Self-Regulation?
Authors: Ackerman Michelle L. , Vance David E. , Ball Karlene K.
Published: April 2014

Recent research indicates that providing feedback about cognitive abilities (i.e., UFOV® test performance) may change driving self-regulation; however, 42% of participants who received negative feedback failed to increase driving self-regulation (Ackerman, Ball, Crowe, Owsley, Vance, & Wadley, 2011). The current study extends those findings, using the same sample ( N = 129) to investigate factors that may influence the relationship between feedback regarding cognitive abilities and driving self-regulation. Feedback by age and feedback by number of eye conditions showed significant interactions, and feedback by baseline driving exposure interaction approached significance. Older participants (80-94; n = 38) who received negative feedback significantly increased subsequent avoidance of challenging driving conditions relative to baseline. Participants with no reported eye conditions ( n = 36) who received negative feedback significantly increased subsequent driving avoidance, and participants below median baseline driving exposure ( n = 66) tended to increase subsequent driving avoidance. These results identify individual level factors that may influence the relationship between feedback regarding cognitive abilities and self-regulation and have implications for encouraging older adults to make informed decisions about appropriate driving behavior.
Delivered Volumes of Enteral Nutrition Exceed Prescribed Volumes
Authors: Walker Renee Nichole , Utech Anne , Velez Maria Eugenia , Schwartz Katie
Published: April 2014

Background: Enteral nutrition (EN) provisions are typically calculated based on a 24‐hour infusion period. However, feedings are often interrupted for daily activities, procedures, or gastrointestinal intolerance. The study's objective was to determine the delivered EN quantities provided to stable hospitalized patients, using cellular time and measured volumes to verify our EN calculation adjustment. Methods: A supply of consecutively numbered ready‐to‐hang (RTH) EN product was delivered to the bedside of 26 inpatients with established EN tolerance at goal rates on various types of nursing units. The dietitian weighed the volume remaining in the infusing product and recorded the measurement time. On the following days, the dietitian continued to weigh the infusing RTH product and the empty RTH bottles saved by nursing. The primary outcome was the difference between the prescribed and delivered EN provisions, which was calculated with a paired t test. Results: Patients received significantly more calories in the delivered enteral feeding (mean [SD], 1678 [385] kcal) than prescribed calories in the EN order (1489 [246 kcal]; t = 3.736, P = .001), adjusting for observed time. No significant differences were found between nursing units, product, and rate. Conclusion: EN delivered may actually exceed ordered amounts by 5%–21% (mean, 12%) with feeding pump inaccuracy as the primary contributing factor. This differs from what others have found. Our findings support using a volume‐based ordering system vs a rate‐based ordering system for more accurate EN delivery.
Nutrition Support Team‐Led Glycemic Control Program for Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Dickerson Roland N. , Maish George O. , Minard Gayle , Brown Rex O.
Published: April 2014

Glycemic control is an important component of the metabolic management of the critically ill patient. Nutrition support teams are frequently challenged by complicated patients who exhibit multiple concurrent etiologies for hyperglycemia. Nutrition support teams can serve in a pivotal role in the development and evaluation of safe and effective techniques for achieving glycemic control. This review describes the efforts of a nutrition support team in achieving safe and effective glycemic control at their institution. Identification of target blood glucose concentration range, development, initiation, monitoring of a continuous intravenous insulin infusion algorithm, nursing adherence to the algorithm, modification of the algorithm based on the presence of conditions that alter insulin metabolism and glucose homeostasis, and transition of the patient who receives continuous enteral nutrition from a continuous intravenous insulin infusion to intermittent subcutaneous insulin therapy are discussed.
Methods to calculate accurate wheel/rail contact positions and static contact stress levels
Authors: Huang Longwen , Li Zhengmei , Li Liuxiang , An Qi
Published: April 2014

The key requirement to calculate the fatigue and wear levels of wheels and rails is to establish a method that can accurately represent the wheel/rail contact stress. Wheel and rail surfaces are composed of a series of surfaces each with a different curvature, which makes research on wheel/rail contact very difficult. In this paper, a wheel from a passenger train with a LM-type worn tread profile and a 60 kg/m rail are taken as the research objects in a study on the contact positions and static contact stress. An analytical model for accurately finding the contact position is established by building and solving wheel and rail profile equations. Furthermore, a slice-based model is established to calculate the contact stress of a contact point, especially for points on the profiles near the junction of two surfaces with different curvatures. The error created by using the slice-based model is corrected so as to make the calculation more accurate. An example, in which the axis load is 18 t, is analyzed. The maximum contact stress, deformation and contact spot size are calculated, and some useful conclusions are obtained. The research presented in this paper can provide a reliable foundation for future research on wheel and rail fatigue, friction and wear.
Thai visitors’ expectations and experiences of explainer interaction within a science museum context
Authors: Kamolpattana Supara , Chen Ganigar , Sonchaeng Pichai , Wilkinson Clare , Willey Neil , Bultitude Karen
Published: April 2014

In Western literature, there is evidence that museum explainers offer significant potential for enhancing visitors’ learning through influencing their knowledge, content, action, behaviour and attitudes. However, little research has focused on the role of explainers in other cultural contexts. This study explored interactions between visitors and museum explainers within the setting of Thailand. Two questionnaires were distributed to 600 visitors and 41 museum explainers. The results demonstrated both potential similarities and differences with Western contexts. Explainers appeared to prefer didactic approaches, focussing on factual knowledge rather than encouraging deep learning. Two-way communication, however, appeared to be enhanced by the use of a ‘pseudo-sibling relationship’ by explainers. Traditional Thai social reserve was reduced through such approaches, with visitors taking on active learning roles. These findings have implications for training museum explainers in non-Western cultures, as well as museum communication practice more generally.
When in Rome: the exercise of power by foreign multinational companies in the United States1
Authors: Compa Lance
Published: April 2014

Multinational corporations exercise power in the United States by integrating themselves into the US economic and legal systems, not by interfering with them. Firms take advantage of the relatively deregulated labour market in the United States and its ‘at-will’ employment relations, compared with ‘just cause’ requirements elsewhere. Many multinational companies also adopt US management-style behaviour towards trade unions, notwithstanding their publicly declared support for global norms on workers’ freedom of association. They exploit US labour laws that violate international standards and interfere with trade union formation. Case studies examine several examples of this ‘when in Rome’ anti-union phenomenon. At the same time, some counter-examples of companies that adhere to ILO core standards are offered. The conclusion contains recommendations for securing multinational companies’ respect for workers’ freedom of association in the United States, including application of ILO core standards, UN Guiding Principles, OECD Guidelines and Global Framework Agreements.
Assessing Challenges in End-of-Life Conversations With Patients Utilizing a Public Safety-Net Health Care System
Authors: Nedjat-Haiem Frances R. , Carrion Iraida V.
Published: April 2014

Multiple factors influence end-of-life (EOL) care discussions that occur in health care systems, within organizations, among individuals working within these systems and in patients and family/friend support networks. This study examined barriers to EOL care discussions as experienced by health care providers working in a public safety-net health care system where the majority of their patients were low-income and immigrant Latinos seeking medical treatment. Qualitative data were collected in South Central Los Angeles through semistructured interviews with 46 health care providers from different disciplines in medicine, nursing, social work, and chaplaincy. The themes indicated communication barriers in the public sector health care setting and sociocultural patient- and family-level factors. All providers made valuable contributions to clarify the complexity of the problems. Universal strategies are needed to improve communication.
The Sex Ratio of Full and Half Siblings of People Diagnosed With ADHD in Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: Mouridsen Svend Erik , Rich Bente , Isager Torben
Published: April 2014

Objective:It has been suggested that high levels of prenatal testosterone exposure are implied in the etiology of male preponderance disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and ADHD. Within this scope, we studied the sex ratio (proportion of males) in siblings of individuals diagnosed with ADHD in childhood and adolescence. Method: We did a nationwide, register-based cohort study of the sex ratio in siblings of the 16,381 patients in Denmark diagnosed with ADHD at age 17 years and younger and registered in the nationwide Danish Psychiatric Central Register between January 1, 1994 and May 28, 2013. Results: Among the 33,151 siblings, 17,041 were males and 16,110 females. This yields a sex ratio of 0.514, which is not statistically significant different from the Danish live birth sex ratio of 0.513 during the relevant years ( p = .70). Conclusion: These findings provide no support for the hypothesis that the sex ratio is elevated among the siblings of people with ADHD.
Mood changes following social dance sessions in people with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Lewis Carine , Annett Lucy E , Davenport Sally , Hall Amelia A , Lovatt Peter
Published: April 2014

Dance interventions have physical benefits for the elderly, especially those with Parkinson’s disease. This study assessed the psychological benefits of dance. A total of 37 participants, with either Parkinson’s disease ( n = 22) or age-matched controls ( n = 15) completed mood questionnaires before and after a 10-week dance intervention. An overall reduction in total mood disturbance and a specific reduction in anger were observed. In addition, less fatigue was found for those initially scoring higher in depression. This suggests that dance can provide psychological benefits for both people with Parkinson’s disease and the elderly, with findings suggesting that this is an avenue to be explored further.
Justice and Gini coefficients
Authors: Everett Theodore J , Everett Bruce M
Published: April 2014

Gini coefficients, which measure gross inequalities rather than their unfair components, are often used as proxy measures of absolute or relative distributive injustice in Western societies. This presupposes that the fair inequalities in these societies are small and stable enough to be ignored. This article presents a model for a series of ideal, perfectly just societies, where comfortable lives are equally available to everyone, and calculates the Gini coefficients for each. According to this model, inequalities produced by age and other demographic factors, together with reasonable choices under equal opportunity, can raise the Gini coefficients for perfectly just societies to levels at least as high as those of any current Western country, and can as easily account for differences in Gini coefficients between such societies or within one such society over time. If Gini coefficients at these levels are possible for ideal societies without distributive injustice, then they should not be used as proxy measures of distributive injustice in real societies.
The role of social science in action-guiding philosophy: The case of educational equity
Authors: Bischoff Kendra , Shores Kenneth
Published: April 2014

Education policy decisions are both normatively and empirically challenging. These decisions require the consideration of both relevant values and empirical facts. Values tell us what we have reason to care about, and facts can be used to describe what is possible. Following Hamlin and Stemplowska, we distinguish between a theory of ideals and descriptions of feasibility. We argue that when feasibility constraints are used to rank competing states of affairs, two things must be articulated. First, one must explain why one feasibility constraint is preferred over another. Second, because of empirical uncertainty, one must describe the upper and lower bounds of a specified feasibility constraint. The first case implies that different optima are possible depending on, for example, what one takes to be fixed about the world. The second case implies that different optima are always possible, and the upper and lower bounds of these optima will depend on the empirical uncertainty of an estimated feasibility constraint. We then describe three distinct forms of empirical uncertainty. Careful consideration of these sources of uncertainty can help to mitigate the risks of imprecision. The article closes by considering a case study whereby a meritocratic conception of fair equality of opportunity is considered alongside competing values of priority and parental partiality.
Varenicline and cardiovascular adverse events: a perspective review
Authors: Chelladurai Yohalakshmi , Singh Sonal
Published: April 2014

Smoking is a leading preventable cause of mortality and morbidity. Varenicline, a first-line smoking cessation aid, is used widely to achieve successful quit rates in smokers. A number of studies and systematic reviews have evaluated the safety profile of the drug. To date, three systematic reviews by Singh and colleagues, Prochaska and Hilton, and Ware and colleagues, published between 2011 and 2013, have evaluated serious cardiovascular adverse events with varenicline use. Even though all three reviews demonstrated that serious cardiovascular adverse events were nominally more frequent in varenicline-treated patients when compared with placebo, a significantly increased event rate was found only in the review by Singh and colleagues. The three reviews included similar trials but differed in the evaluation of outcomes and performance of summary statistic computation. Though the evidence from the two most recent systematic reviews demonstrated that risk of serious cardiovascular events might not be increased with varenicline use, the US Food and Drug Administration has advised prescription with caution combined with close monitoring and education of patients until more conclusive evidence is available. Results of these reviews cannot be generalized to patients with unstable cardiac conditions.
Enlargement of Glenoid Defects in Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Nakagawa Shigeto , Ozaki Ritsuro , Take Yasuhiro , Mizuno Naoko , Mae Tatsuo
Published: April 2014

Background:

Large glenoid rim defects in patients with traumatic anterior shoulder instability are often regarded as a contraindication for arthroscopic Bankart repair, with a defect of 20% to 27% considered as the critical size. While recurrence of dislocations, male sex, and collision sports were reported to be the significant factors influencing large glenoid defects, the influences of subluxations and more detailed types of sports were not investigated.

Purpose:

To investigate the influence of the number of dislocations and subluxations and type of sport on the occurrence and size of glenoid defects in detail.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 223 shoulders (60 with primary instability, 163 with recurrent instability) were prospectively examined by computed tomography. Glenoid rim morphology was compared between primary and recurrent instability. In patients with recurrent instability, the relationship between the glenoid defect and the number of dislocations and subluxations was investigated. In addition, glenoid defects were compared among 49 male American football players, 41 male rugby players, 27 male baseball players, and 25 female athletes.

Results:

The mean extent of the glenoid defect was 3.5% in shoulders with primary instability and 11.3% in those with recurrent instability. A glenoid defect was detected in 108 shoulders (66.2%) with recurrent instability versus 12 shoulders (20%) with primary instability. Regarding the influence of the total number of dislocations/subluxations, the average extent of the glenoid defect was 6.3% in 85 shoulders with 2 to 5 events, 12.9% in 34 shoulders with 6 to 10 events, and 19.6% in 44 shoulders with 11 or more events. The glenoid defect became significantly larger along with an increasing number of recurrences. Although recurrent subluxation without dislocation also influenced the glenoid defect size, the number of dislocations did not. The average extent of the glenoid defect was 12.0% in rugby players, 8.9% in American football players, 4.7% in female athletes, and 4.5% in baseball players. Glenoid defects were significantly smaller in male baseball players and female athletes than in male collision athletes.

Conclusion:

The glenoid defect is significantly enlarged by damage due to recurrent dislocation and subluxation; therefore, glenoid rim morphology differs markedly between primary and recurrent instability. Glenoid defect size is also influenced by sex and by the type of sport.
Inherited biallelic CSF3R mutations in severe congenital neutropenia
Authors: Triot Alexa , Järvinen Päivi M. , Arostegui Juan I. , Murugan Dhaarini , Kohistani Naschla , Dapena Díaz José Luis , Racek Tomas , Puchałka Jacek , Gertz E. Michael , Schäffer Alejandro A. , Kotlarz Daniel , Pfeifer Dietmar , Díaz de Heredia Rubio Cristina , Ozdemir Mehmet Akif , Patiroglu Turkan , Karakukcu Musa , Sánchez de Toledo Codina José , Yagüe Jordi , Touw Ivo P. , Unal Ekrem , Klein Christoph
Published: April 2014

Key Points

Biallelic mutations in CSF3R must be considered as a novel genetic subtype in patients with congenital neutropenia. The p.Arg308Cys mutation in CSF3R leads to altered G-CSF receptor glycosylation and surface expression and abrogated downstream signaling.
Long-term outcome after haploidentical stem cell transplant and infusion of T cells expressing the inducible caspase 9 safety transgene
Authors: Zhou Xiaoou , Di Stasi Antonio , Tey Siok-Keen , Krance Robert A. , Martinez Caridad , Leung Kathryn S. , Durett April G. , Wu Meng-Fen , Liu Hao , Leen Ann M. , Savoldo Barbara , Lin Yu-Feng , Grilley Bambi J. , Gee Adrian P. , Spencer David M. , Rooney Cliona M. , Heslop Helen E. , Brenner Malcolm K. , Dotti Gianpietro
Published: April 2014

Key Points

Allodepleted-T-cells containing the iC9 safety gene persist long-term in vivo, promote immune recovery, and protect against infections. GvHD caused by iC9-T cells can be permanently controlled by a single administration of AP1903 without abrogating immune reconstitution.
Identification of airborne microbiota in selected areas in a health-care setting in South Africa
Authors: Setlhare Gaofetoge , Malebo Ntsoaki , Shale Karabo , Lues Ryk
Published: April 2014

Background

The role of bio-aerosols in the spread of disease and spoilage of food has been described in numerous studies; nevertheless this information at South African hospitals is limited. Attributable to their size, bio-aerosols may be suspended in the air for long periods placing patients at risk of infection and possibly settling on surfaces resulting in food contamination. The aim of the study is to assess the microbial composition of the air in the kitchen and selected wards at a typical district hospital in South Africa. Air samples were collected using the settle plates and an SAS Super 90 air sampler by impaction on agar. These microbial samples were quantified and identified using Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and Analytic Profile Index (API).

Results

Microbial counts were found to be higher in the fourth (≤6.0 × 101 cfu/m-3) sampling rounds when compared to the first (≥2 cfu/m-3), second (≤3.0 × 101 cfu/m-3) and third (≤1.5 × 101 cfu/m-3) sampling rounds. Genera identified included Bacillus, Kocuria, Staphylococcus, Arthrobacter, Candida, Aureobasidium, Penicillium and Phoma amongst others. The presence of these pathogens is of concern, attributable to their ability to cause diseases in humans especially in those with suppressed host immunity defenses. Furthermore, fungal genera identified (e.g. Candida) in this study are also known to cause food spoilage and fungal infections in patients.

Conclusion

Results from this study indicate the importance of air quality monitoring in health-care settings to prevent possible hospital-acquired infections and contamination of hospital surfaces including food contact surfaces by airborne contaminants.
Beacon-based (bbFISH®) technology for rapid pathogens identification in blood cultures
Authors: Sakarikou Christina , Parisato Martina , Cascio Giuliana Lo , Fontana Carla
Published: April 2014

Background

Diagnosis and treatment of bloodstream infections (BSI) are often hampered by the delay in obtaining the final results of blood cultures. Rapid identification of pathogens involved in BSI is of great importance in order to improve survival of septic patients. Beacon-based fluorescent in situ hybridization (hemoFISH® Gram positive and hemoFISH® Gram negative test kits, miacom diagnostics GmbH Düsseldorf, Germany) accelerates the identification of most frequent bacterial pathogens of sepsis.

Results

In this study a total of 558 blood culture (377 blood culture positive and 181 negative) were tested with the hemoFISH® method and the results were evaluated in comparison with the traditional culture based methods. The overall sensitivity and specificity of the hemoFISH® tests were 94.16% and 100%, while, the PPV and NPV were 100 and 89.16%, respectively. As the hemoFISH® results were obtained within 45 mins, the time difference between the final results of the traditional culture method and the hemoFISH® assay was about two days.

Conclusions

Considering the good sensitivity and specificity of the hemoFISH® assays as well as the significant time saving in obtaining the final results (p-value 0.0001), the introduction of the system could be rialable in the microbiology laboratories, even alongside the traditional systems.
Differential regulation of MMPs by E2F1, Sp1 and NF-kappa B controls the small cell lung cancer invasive phenotype
Authors: Li Zunling , Guo Yanxia , Jiang Hanming , Zhang Tingguo , Jin Changzhu , Young Charles YF , Yuan Huiqing
Published: April 2014

Background

E2F1 transcription factor plays a vital role in the regulation of diverse cellular processes including cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis. E2F1 overexpression has been demonstrated in small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and extensive metastasis in early phase is the most important feature of SCLC. In this study, we investigated the involvement of E2F1 in the process of invasion and metastasis in SCLC by regulating the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression of E2F1 and MMPs in SCLC samples in a Chinese Han population. The impact of E2F1 on invasion and metastasis was observed by transwell and wound healing experiments with depletion of E2F1 by specific siRNA. The target genes regulated by E2F1 were identified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-to-sequence, and the expressions of target genes were detected by real time PCR and western blotting. The dual luciferase reporter system was performed to analyze the regulatory relationship between E2F1 and MMPs.

Results

E2F1 is an independent and adverse prognosis factor that is highly expressed in SCLC in a Chinese Han population. Knockdown of E2F1 by specific siRNA resulted in the downregulation of migration and invasion in SCLC. The expressions of MMP-9 and −16 in SCLC were higher than other MMPs, and their expressions were most significantly reduced after silencing E2F1. ChIP-to-sequence and promoter-based luciferase analysis demonstrated that E2F1 directly controlled MMP-16 expression via an E2F1 binding motif in the promoter. Although one E2F1 binding site was predicted in the MMP-9 promoter, luciferase analysis indicated that this binding site was not functionally required. Further study demonstrated that E2F1 transcriptionally controlled the expression of Sp1 and p65, which in turn enhanced the MMP-9 promoter activity in SCLC cells. The associations between E2F1, Sp1, p65, and MMP-9 were validated by immunohistochemistry staining in SCLC tumors.

Conclusions

E2F1 acts as a transcriptional activator for MMPs and directly enhances MMP transcription by binding to E2F1 binding sequences in the promoter, or indirectly activates MMPs through enhanced Sp1 and NF-kappa B as a consequence of E2F1 activation in SCLC.
Comparative chest computed tomography findings of non-tuberculous mycobacterial lung diseases and pulmonary tuberculosis in patients with acid fast bacilli smear-positive sputum
Authors: Yuan Mei-Kang , Chang Cheng-Yu , Tsai Ping-Huang , Lee Yuan-Ming , Huang Jen-Wu , Chang Shih-Chieh
Published: April 2014

Background

Early diagnosis and treatment of nontuberculous mycobacterial lung diseases (NTM-LD) and pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) are important clinical issues. The present study aimed to compare and identify the chest CT characteristics that help to distinguish NTM lung disease from PTB in patients with acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear-positive sputum.

Methods

From January 2009 to April 2012, we received 467 AFB smear-positive sputum specimens. A total of 95 CT scans obtained from the 159 patients were analyzed, 75 scans were from patients with PTB and 20 scans from NTM-LD. The typical chest CT findings of mycobacterial diseases were analyzed.

Results

In patients with PTB, the prevalence of pleural effusion (38.7% vs. 15.0%; P =0.047), nodules < 10 mm in size (76.0% vs. 25.0%; P < 0.001), tree-in-bud pattern (81.3% vs. 55.0%; P =0.021), and cavities (31.1% vs. 5.0%; P =0.018) were significantly higher than patients with NTM. Of the 20 patients with NTM lung diseases, bronchiectasis and cystic changes were significantly higher than patients with PTB (20.0% vs. 4.0%; P = 0.034). In multivariate analysis, CT scan findings of nodules was independently associated with patients with diagnoses of PTB (odds ratio [OR], 0.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02-0.30). Presence of bronchiectasis and cystic changes in CT scans was strongly associated with patients with NTM-LD (OR, 33.04; 95% CI, 3.01-362.55).

Conclusions

The CT distinction between NTM-LD and PTB may help radiologists and physicians to know the most likely diagnoses in AFB-smear positive patients and avoid unnecessary adverse effects and the related costs of anti-TB drugs in endemic areas.
Ultrahigh refractive index sensing performance of plasmonic quadrupole resonances in gold nanoparticles
Authors: Yong Zehui , Lei Dang Yuan , Lam Chi Hang , Wang Yu
Published: April 2014

The refractive index sensing properties of plasmonic resonances in gold nanoparticles (nanorods and nanobipyramids) are investigated through numerical simulations. We find that the quadruple resonance in both nanoparticles shows much higher sensing figure of merit (FOM) than its dipolar counterpart, which is attributed mainly to the reduction in resonance linewidth. More importantly, our results predict that at the same sensing wavelength, the sensing FOM of the quadrupole mode can be significantly boosted from 3.9 for gold nanorods to 7.4 for gold nanobipyramids due to the geometry-dependent resonance linewidth, revealing a useful strategy for optimizing the sensing performance of metal nanoparticles.
Kallikrein 3 and vitamin D receptor polymorphisms: potentials environmental risk factors for prostate cancer
Authors: Hu Jianpeng , Qiu Zhen , Zhang Liansheng , Cui Feilun
Published: April 2014

Objective

To investigate the relationship and interaction of the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of KLK3 and VDR and environmental factors with the predisposition to prostate cancer within Chinese population.

Methods

The comparison between 108 patients and 242 healthy people was carried out by using the TaqMan/MGB Probe Technology to determine the genotypes of KLK3(rs2735839 is located between KLK2 and KLK3) and VDR (rs731236 is located exon 9). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression model were used to assess the connection of genetic polymorphisms and environmental risk factors with PCa by collecting demographic information, as well as BMI, consumption of cigarettes, alcohol, and tea, exercise, and other environmental risk factors.

Results

The appearing frequencies of AA, AG, and GG genotypes at the SNPs rs2735839 (A/G) for KLK3 were 13.89%, 62.96% and 23.15% in PCa and 37.19%, 44.63%, 18.18% in control, respectively; these two groups are statistically different (P = 0.00). While the appearing frequencies of TT, TC, and CC genotypes at the SNPs rs731236 (T/C) for VDR were 88.89%, 9, 26%, 1.85% and 90.50%, 9.10%, 0.40% in control, respectively, with no significant statistical difference between the two group. The study confirmed decreasing risk in tea drinkers (OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.35-0.96).

Conclusions

Our studies indicate that environmental factor-tea drinking is associated with the development of PCa. The habit of drinking tea is a protective factor against PCa. The SNPs rs2735839 for KLK3 is strongly related to the development of PCa, while the SNPs rs731236 for VDR is not.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/9759981571058803.
Repeatability of a multi‐segment foot model with a 15‐marker set in healthy adults
Authors: Seo Sang Gyo , Lee Dong Yeon , Moon Hyuk Ju , Kim Sung Ju , Kim Jihyeung , Lee Kyoung Min , Chung Chin Youb , Choi In Ho
Published: April 2014

Background

Several 3D multi‐segment foot models (MFMs) have been introduced for the in vivo analysis of dynamic foot kinematics. However, reproducibility of a model should be checked and ascertained before clinical utilization of a MFM. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of recently introduced MFM with a 15‐marker set by assessing the participant's stride‐to‐stride (intra‐session) and visit‐to‐revisit (inter‐session) repeatability.

Methods

Twenty healthy adults with a mean age of 28.9 years (10 males and 10 females) were tested. Three representative strides from five separate trials were used for analysis from each session. Kinematic data of foot segmental motion was collected and tracked using the Foot3D Multi‐Segment Software (Motion Analysis Co., Santa Rosa. CA). A retest was performed in the same manner at an interval of 4 weeks. Coefficients of multiple correlation (CMC) and intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC) were calculated in order to assess the intra‐session and inter‐session repeatability.

Results

Inter‐segment foot angles from healthy adults from a MFM with 15‐marker set showed a narrow range of variability during the gait cycle. The mean intra‐session ICC was 0.981 (±0.010), which was interpreted as excellent. The mean intra‐session CMC was 0.948 (±0.027), which was interpreted as very good repeatability. The mean inter‐session ICC was 0.886 (±0.047) and the mean inter‐session CMC was 0.801 (±0.077), which were interpreted as excellent and good repeatability, respectively.

Conclusion

We demonstrated a MFM with a 15‐marker set had high intra‐session and inter‐session repeatability, especially in sagittal plane motion. We thought this MFM would be applicable to evaluation of the segmental foot motion during gait.
Role of season, temperature and humidity on the incidence of epistaxis in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Sowerby Leigh J , DeSerres Joshua J , Rudmik Luke , Wright Erin D
Published: April 2014

Background

Classical dogma holds that epistaxis is more common in winter months but there is significant variability reported in the literature. No study has yet examined the effect of season, humidity and temperature on epistaxis in a location with as severe weather extremes as seen in Alberta, Canada. The objective of the study is to evaluate for an effect of these meteorological factors on the incidence of epistaxis in Alberta.

Method

A retrospective review of consecutive adult patients presenting to the Emergency room (ER) in Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta over a three-year period was performed. Daily temperature and humidity data was recorded from the respective airports. Statistical analysis with Pearson's correlation coefficient was performed.

Results

4315 patients presented during the study period. Mean daily temperatures ranged from a low of -40°C to a high of +23°C. A significant negative correlation was found for mean monthly temperature with epistaxis (Pearson's r = -0.835, p = 0.001). A significant correlation was also present for daily temperature and epistaxis presentation (Pearson's r = -0.55, p = 0.018, range 1.8 to 2.2 events/day). No correlation was identified with humidity and no significant seasonal variation was present.

Conclusions

A negative correlation was found to exist for both daily and mean monthly temperature with rates of epistaxis. A seasonal variation was seen in Edmonton but not in Calgary. No correlation was found for humidity when compared to both presentation rates and admissions.
Tumor necrosis factor inhibitor therapy but not standard therapy is associated with resolution of erosion in the sacroiliac joints of patients with axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Pedersen Susanne J , Wichuk Stephanie , Chiowchanwisawakit Praveena , Lambert Robert G , Maksymowych Walter P
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Radiography is an unreliable and insensitive tool for the assessment of structural lesions in the sacroiliac joints (SIJ). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detects a wider spectrum of structural lesions but has undergone minimal validation in prospective studies. The Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) MRI Sacroiliac Joint (SIJ) Structural Score (SSS) assesses a spectrum of structural lesions (erosion, fat metaplasia, backfill, ankylosis) and its potential to discriminate between therapies requires evaluation.

Methods

The SSS score assesses five consecutive coronal slices through the cartilaginous portion of the joint on T1-weighted sequences starting from the transitional slice between cartilaginous and ligamentous portions of the joint. Lesions are scored dichotomously (present/absent) in SIJ quadrants (fat metaplasia, erosion) or halves (backfill, ankylosis). Two readers independently scored 147 pairs (baseline, 2 years) of scans from a prospective cohort of patients with SpA who received either standard (n = 69) or tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) inhibitor (n = 78) therapy. Smallest detectable change (SDC) was calculated using analysis of variance (ANOVA), discrimination was assessed using Guyatt’s effect size, and treatment group differences were assessed using t-tests and the Mann–Whitney test. We identified baseline demographic and structural damage variables associated with change in SSS score by univariate analysis and analyzed the effect of treatment by multivariate stepwise regression adjusted for severity of baseline structural damage and demographic variables.

Results

A significant increase in mean SSS score for fat metaplasia (P = 0.017) and decrease in mean SSS score for erosion (P = 0.017) was noted in anti-TNFα treated patients compared to those on standard therapy. Effect size for this change in SSS fat metaplasia and erosion score was moderate (0.5 and 0.6, respectively). Treatment and baseline SSS score for erosion were independently associated with change in SSS erosion score (β = 1.75, P = 0.003 and β = 0.40, P < 0.0001, respectively). Change in ASDAS (β = −0.46, P = 0.006), SPARCC MRI SIJ inflammation (β = −0.077, P = 0.019), and baseline SSS score for fat metaplasia (β = 0.085, P = 0.034) were independently associated with new fat metaplasia.

Conclusion

The SPARCC SSS method for assessment of structural lesions has discriminative capacity in demonstrating significantly greater reduction in erosion and new fat metaplasia in patients receiving anti-TNFα therapy.
Human placenta-derived neurospheres are susceptible to transformation after extensive in vitro expansion
Authors: Amendola Donatella , Nardella Marta , Guglielmi Loredana , Cerquetti Lidia , Carico Elisabetta , Alesi Viola , Porru Manuela , Leonetti Carlo , Bearzi Claudia , Rizzi Roberto , D’Agnano Igea , Stigliano Antonio , Novelli Giuseppe , Bucci Barbara
Published: April 2014

Introduction

The cancer stem cell model links neoplastic cells with normal stem cell biology, but little is known on how normal stem cells are transformed into cancer stem cells.

Methods

To investigate the processes underlying the transformation of normal stem cells we developed in vitro a cancer stem cell model from human amniotic and chorionic placenta membranes. In this model we studied the expression of specific stem cell molecules by flow cytometry, and genes, by real time RT-PCR. Microscopy immunfluorescence was employed to investigate the proliferative and differentiation patterns. Fluorescence microscopy and FACS were employed to investigate the proliferative and differentiation patterns. To evaluate the tumorigenic potential of our model we injected the cells into NOD.CB17-Prkdcscid/NCrHsd mice.

Results

Normal human stem cells from amniotic and chorionic placenta membranes were converted into neural cell lineages, under specific conditions, to form secondary neurospheres with a capacity for self-renewal. After extensive in vitro culture, these cells underwent spontaneous transformations and acquired a neuroblastoma (NB)-like phenotype with an elevated proliferative potential that is comparable to established neuroblastoma cell lines. The ability of these cells to transform their phenotype was evidenced by increased clonogenic ability in vitro; by augmented expression level of certain proliferation- and transformation-related genes (e.g., CCNA2, MYCN, ENPP2, GRIA3, and KIT); by the presence of multinucleated and hyperdiploid cells. We further demonstrated that the transformed phenotype is an NB by measuring the expression of NB-specific markers, disialoganglioside GD2 and N-Myc proteins.

Conclusions

We have developed a cancer stem cell model starting from normal human stem cells derived from amniotic and chorionic placenta membranes. These cells are able to differentiate into neural cell lineages and to undergo spontaneous transformations and acquire an NB-like phenotype.