bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boron subphthalocyanine polymers: Avoiding the small molecule side product and exploring their use in organic light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Lessard Benoît H. , Sampson Kathleen L. , Plint Trevor , Bender Timothy P.
Published: May 2015

In this study, we set out the steps to efficiently synthesize boron subphthalocyanine (BsubPc)‐containing polymers while circumventing the formation of a known side product. The synthesis was achieved using the post‐polymerization coupling reaction of a carboxylic acid functional prepolymer with bromo‐BsubPc. We have earlier shown that when copolymerizing styrene and acrylic acid (AA) a significant amount of an undesired side product is formed. In this study, we have determined that this side product persisted when styrene was copolymerized with AA or n‐butyl acrylate but could be avoided when styrene was copolymerized with methacrylic acid (MAA), methyl methacrylate, or acrylonitrile. Therefore, MAA/styrene copolymer, synthesized by nitroxide‐mediated polymerization was chosen to be coupled to BsubPc. The resulting BsubPc polymer was found to have similar electrochemical properties, solution state absorption and photoluminescence characteristics when compared against a small molecule model compound although the solid‐state PL emission of the polymer was found to be excitation wavelength dependent. Finally, preliminary organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) were fabricated to assess the potential role(s) of the BsubPc polymer in organic electronic devices. These OLEDs represent the first‐solution processed organic electronic devices containing BsubPc polymers as a functional material. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 1996–2006
Social support and its implications in older, early‐stage breast cancer patients in CALGB 49907 (Alliance A171301)
Authors: Jatoi Aminah , Muss Hyman , Allred Jake B. , Cohen Harvey J. , Ballman Karla , Hopkins Judith O. , Gajra Ajeet , Lafky Jacqueline , Wolff Antonio , Kottschade Lisa , Gralow Julie , Hurria Arti
Published: May 2015

Background

Studies point to a direct association between social support and better cancer outcomes. This study examined whether baseline social support is associated with better survival and fewer chemotherapy‐related adverse events in older, early‐stage breast cancer patients.

Methods

This study is a pre‐planned secondary analysis of CALGB 49907/Alliance A171301, a randomized trial that compared standard adjuvant chemotherapy versus capecitabine in breast cancer patients 65 years of age or older. A subset reported on the extent of their social support with questionnaires that were completed 6 times over 2 years.

Results

The median age of this 331‐patient cohort was 72 years (range: 65, 90); 179 (55%) were married, and 210 (65%) lived with someone. One hundred forty‐five patients (46%) described a social network of 0–10 people; 110 (35%) of 11–25; and 58 (19%) of 26 or more. The Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) social support survey revealed that the median scores (range) for emotional/informational, tangible, positive social interaction, and affectionate social support were 94 (3, 100), 94 (0, 100), 96 (0, 100), and 100 (8, 100), respectively. Social support scores appeared stable over 2 years and higher (more support) than in other cancer settings. No statistically significant associations were observed between social support and survival and adverse events in multivariate analyses. However, married patients had smaller tumors, and those with arthritis reported less social support.

Conclusion

Although social support did not predict survival and adverse events, the exploratory but plausible inverse associations with larger tumors and arthritis suggest that social support merits further study. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Medical interventions to reverse pulmonary hypoplasia in the animal model of congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A systematic review
Authors: Eastwood Mary Patrice , Russo Francesca Maria , Toelen Jaan , Deprest Jan
Published: May 2015

Objective

We aimed to systematically review all published pre‐clinical research on prenatal medical treatment of pulmonary hypoplasia in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Background The neonatal mortality due to isolated CDH remains high. Whether fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) reduces mortality is still to be demonstrated. Therefore more potent preferentially medical therapy would be welcomed. Methods We searched MEDLINE (Pubmed), Embase and the Web of Science including all studies from the earliest date (1951) to December 2013. Article quality was assessed using the modified CAMRADES checklist. Inclusion criteria were those animal studies addressing prenatal medical interventions and principal variables were confirmation of a diaphragmatic defect, lung to body weight ratio (LBWR), formal airway morphometry or DNA/protein content. Results In total 983 articles were identified. Following abstract review, 96 articles were assessed by two authors in agreement with a third for eligibility. Of these, 43 were included in the final analysis. The median number of study quality checklist items (maximum 10) scored was 4 (IQ range: 2–5). Thirty (69.8%) of studies were in the nitrofen rat. The majority were treated with vitamins or glucocorticoids. Single studies reported some improvement in lung morphology with alternative therapies. It was impossible to identify a pattern in animal model selection or creation, mode, time point or duration of treatment and readouts. Only one study reported a sample size calculation. Conclusion Comparison in pre‐clinical studies in CDH is challenging due to methodological variation. Agreed standardized methods need to be applied in future investigation of new medical therapies. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:820–838. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Retention time of chlorophacinone in black‐tailed prairie dogs informs secondary hazards from a prairie dog rodenticide bait
Authors: Witmer Gary W , Snow Nathan P , Moulton Rachael S
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Secondary toxicity in mammals and birds that consume animals containing residues of anticoagulant rodenticides represents a persistent conflict between conservation, agriculture and environmental contamination. Chlorophacinone residues in black‐tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) represent a secondary exposure hazard to predatory and scavenging avian and mammalian species in the Central Plains of the United States, especially considering efforts to re‐establish black‐footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes). Rozol® Prairie Dog Bait (chlorophacinone 0.005%) is registered to control black‐tailed prairie dogs in ten states throughout the midwestern and western United States.

RESULTS

We fed Rozol Prairie Dog Bait to captive black‐tailed prairie dogs for 2 days and analyzed their livers and whole bodies (without livers) for chlorophacinone residue on days 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 14, 18 and 27 post‐exposure. We found the greatest levels of residues in livers ( = 5.499 mg kg−1) and whole bodies ( = 1.281 mg kg−1) on day 3. Residues in both tissues declined rapidly over time, with estimated half‐lives of approximately 6 days post‐exposure. However, a risk assessment of secondary toxicity to non‐target mammals indicated acute risks for mammalian species up to 27 days post‐exposure and negligible risks for birds.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the greatest risk of secondary toxicity occurs ≤14 days post‐application of Rozol Prairie Dog Bait and declines thereafter. This corresponds to the time when chlorophacinone residues are high, and prairie dogs exhibit signs of intoxication and are perhaps most susceptible to predation and scavenging. These results confirm that Rozol Prairie Dog Bait should not be used in areas where black‐footed ferrets or other sensitive species occur. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Preparation and characterisation of epitaxial Pt/Cu/FeMn/Co thin films on (100)‐oriented MgO single crystals
Authors: Schmidt Mathias , Gräfe Joachim , Audehm Patrick , Phillipp Fritz , Schütz Gisela , Goering Eberhard
Published: May 2015

FeMn/Co thin‐films, a purely metallic exchange‐bias system, were prepared on (100)‐oriented MgO single crystals. The layers were grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The crystalline and magnetic properties could be tuned by using sputtered Pt buffer layers deposited at variable temperatures. A transition of the crystalline orientation from (111)‐terminated layers at lower deposition temperatures to (100)‐terminated layers at temperatures higher than 950 K was established and the impact on the magnetic sample properties was investigated. Here, the detailed sample preparation process is shown together with low energy electron diffraction (LEED), medium energy electron diffraction (MEED), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measurements revealing the samples structure and composition. The crystalline orientation of Pt was imprinted to the magnetic layer stack and clearly influenced the exchange‐bias (EB) and coercive field (HC) as shown by superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) and magneto‐optical Kerr effect (MOKE) measurements. Furthermore, a correlation between the crystallite size and the temperature dependent magnetic properties could be identified.
Use the arts to creatively, effectively address Title IX education, awareness mandates
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2015

NEW ORLEANS, LA. — Title IX education and awareness programming — check! It's one thing to make sure you've met the mandates. But it's quite another to make sure the information actually got through to everyone in a way they could absorb and apply it.
Analysis of accelerated failure time data with dependent censoring using auxiliary variables via nonparametric multiple imputation
Authors: Hsu Chiu‐Hsieh , Taylor Jeremy M. G. , Hu Chengcheng
Published: May 2015

We consider the situation of estimating the marginal survival distribution from censored data subject to dependent censoring using auxiliary variables. We had previously developed a nonparametric multiple imputation approach. The method used two working proportional hazards (PH) models, one for the event times and the other for the censoring times, to define a nearest neighbor imputing risk set. This risk set was then used to impute failure times for censored observations. Here, we adapt the method to the situation where the event and censoring times follow accelerated failure time models and propose to use the Buckley–James estimator as the two working models. Besides studying the performances of the proposed method, we also compare the proposed method with two popular methods for handling dependent censoring through the use of auxiliary variables, inverse probability of censoring weighted and parametric multiple imputation methods, to shed light on the use of them. In a simulation study with time‐independent auxiliary variables, we show that all approaches can reduce bias due to dependent censoring. The proposed method is robust to misspecification of either one of the two working models and their link function. This indicates that a working proportional hazards model is preferred because it is more cumbersome to fit an accelerated failure time model. In contrast, the inverse probability of censoring weighted method is not robust to misspecification of the link function of the censoring time model. The parametric imputation methods rely on the specification of the event time model. The approaches are applied to a prostate cancer dataset. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kolihapeltine trilobites, the spiniest scutelluids from the eastern Anti‐Atlas (Morocco, Early Devonian): evolution, environment and classification
Authors: Feist Raimund , Chatterton Brian D. E.
Published: May 2015

New material from five localities in the Pragian and Emsian of the south‐eastern Moroccan Tafilalt and Ma'der regions sheds new light on the morphology and function of the entire exoskeleton of kolihapeltine trilobites and on their ecology and taphonomy. Entire and articulated specimens are preserved in what appear to be slumped obrution deposits. Monospecific cavity infillings in the Hamar Laghdad mounds are considered to have resulted from transport of sclerites from nearby gregarious assemblages. Development of pronounced spinosity is mainly interpreted as a defensive strategy. The overall morphology, in particular the elongated shape of the tail, and the absence of strongly developed muscle attachment areas, points to an epibenthic bottom life rather than a swimming lifestyle. Evolutionary trends mainly concern morphological changes in the shape of the pygidia that narrow considerably and elongate through time. We provide a systematic assessment of the subfamily Kolihapeltinae. Hitherto poorly known species of Kolihapeltis Prantl and Přibyl are reviewed and their diagnoses completed; two new taxa, K. bassei sp. nov. and K. tafilaltensis sp. nov., are described. Sagittapeltis Kim is emended after revision of its type species S. triangularis. A new species, S. belkai sp. nov., is described. The genus Andegavia Pillet is discarded after we show that its type species is an indeterminable scutelluid fragment. The new genus Heliopeltis with two species, H. ihmadii gen. et sp. nov. and H. johnsoni gen. et sp. nov., is erected.
Efficient conversion of carbohydratesto ethoxymethylfurfural and levulinic acid ethyl ester under the catalysis of recyclable DMSO/Brønsted acids
Authors: Liu Jitian , Tang Yu , Fu Xu
Published: May 2015

This paper presents a novel and environment‐friendly process for the dehydration of carbohydrates to ethoxymethylfurfural (EMF) and levulinic acid ethyl ester (LAEE) under the catalysis of DMSO/H2SO4. The catalyst was recycled efficiently and easily over seven times without any significant loss in fructose conversion. For the conversion of fructose and inulin, EMF and LAEE were obtained in 83% and 80% total yields, respectively. The effects of catalyst loading, reaction temperature, and reaction time on dehydration reaction were investigated.
Are recent changes in the terrestrial small mammal communities related to land use change? A test using pellet analyses
Authors: Torre Ignasi , Gracia‐Quintas Laura , Arrizabalaga Antoni , Baucells Jordi , Díaz Mario
Published: May 2015

Human‐induced landscape changes are expected to have strong effects on the composition and structure of terrestrial small mammal communities (Orders Rodentia and Soricomorpha). However, testing such expectations is difficult due to low detectability of these animals. We used analyses of barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets sampled in the same roosting places during 1977–1991 and again in 2011–2014 to (a) document small mammal community changes and (b) relate them to changes in land use. Forest and synanthropic small mammals increased by a 7 % between both periods, whereas open‐land species decreased by 13 %. Man‐made loss (crops and meadows) and expansion (forest and urban) of relevant habitat types were closely related to these changes. Localities with land use changes opposite to the general trend showed also an opposite trend in small mammal community change. Land use heterogeneity increased and dominance decreased between both sampling periods, and this pattern was paralleled by an increasing trend in diversity and a decreasing trend in dominance in small mammal communities. Decreasing trends of some generalist northern species with restricted ranges may have been due to climate change. Diet monitoring of barn owls are thus valuable tools for both documenting and analyzing fine‐grained small mammal responses to global change.
Return to Play following Metacarpal Fractures in Football Players
Authors: Etier Brian E. , Scillia Anthony J. , Tessier Darin D. , Aune Kyle T. , Emblom Benton A. , Dugas Jeffery R. , Cain E. Lyle
Published: May 2015

Background

Metacarpal fractures are common in football players and lead to time away from competition, but current operative treatment data is limited. The purpose of this study was to examine demographics and outcomes of football players who underwent operative fixation for metacarpal fractures.

Methods

Retrospective review from 2009 to 2012 of any football player surgically treated at one institution for a metacarpal fracture. Charts were reviewed for player position, level of competition, mechanism of injury, return to play, postoperative bracing, and re-fracture event. Current information was obtained via phone interviews with the patient and their athletic trainers. Fractures were classified by radiographic analysis.

Results

Twenty injuries in ten high school players, nine college players, and one recreational player were identified. The most common injured position was wide receiver (six cases) followed by defensive back (five cases). Most injuries occurred through player-to-player contact (12 cases). The long finger (11 cases) was most commonly involved metacarpal. Two players had multiple metacarpal fractures. The most common location was mid-diaphyseal (15 cases). The mean return to play for all in-season athletes was 6.3 days (range 1–21). Protective splints were used for an average of 21 days (range 14–36). All athletes returned to their preinjury level of play without recurrence of fracture or wound complication.

Conclusion

Football players who required surgical fixation of a metacarpal fracture demonstrated an efficient return to play, including in-season players with use of protective bracing.

Study Design

Case series, Level of evidence, IV
Postprocessing in Maxillofacial Multidetector Computed Tomography
Authors: Mazziotti Silvio , Blandino Alfredo , Gaeta Michele , Bottari Antonio , Sofia Carmelo , D'Angelo Tommaso , Ascenti Giorgio
Published: May 2015

Multidetector computed tomography (CT) and volumetric rendering techniques have always been a useful support for the anatomical and pathological study of the maxillofacial district. Nowadays accessibility to multidetector CT scanners allows the achievement of images with an extremely thin collimation and with high spatial resolution, not only along the axial plane but also along the patient's longitudinal axis. This feature is the main theoretical assumption for multiplanar imaging and for an optimal 3-dimensional postprocessing. Multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) techniques permit images along any plane in the space to be obtained, including curved planes; this feature allows the representation in a single bidimensional image of different anatomical structures that develop on multiple planes. For this reason MPR techniques represent an unavoidable step for the study of traumatic pathology as well as of malformative, neoplastic, and inflammatory pathologies. Among 3-dimensional techniques, Maximum Intensity Projection and Shaded Surface Display are routinely used in clinical practice. In addition, volumetric rendering techniques allow a better efficacy in representing the different tissues of maxillofacial district. Each of these techniques give the radiologist an undoubted support for the diagnosis and the characterization of traumatic and malformative conditions, have a critical utility in the neoplastic evaluation of primary or secondary bone involvement, and are also used in the planning of the most modern radiosurgical treatments. The aim of this article is to define the main technical aspects of imaging postprocessing in maxillofacial CT and to summarize when each technique is indicated, according to the different pathologies of this complex anatomical district.
Buriti oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.) negatively impacts somatic growth and reflex maturation and increases retinol deposition in young rats
Authors: Medeiros Maria C. , Aquino Jailane S. , Soares Juliana , Figueiroa Edigleide B. , Mesquita Hanni M. , Pessoa Debora C. , Stamford Tania M.
Published: May 2015

Buriti oil contains nutrients such as essential fatty acids and vitamins, which are directly involved with neonates' development. However, the refining process of this oil can change its nutrient profile. This study investigated the effects of maternal consumption of Buriti oil (crude or refined), on reflex and somatic development and retinol levels in neonatal rats. Thirty‐six Wistar male neonate rats born from mothers who consumed diet with 7% lipids during gestation and lactation were used. Rats were randomized into three groups: rats receiving diet added of soybean oil (control‐CG), crude Buriti oil (CB) and refined Buriti oil (RB). Offspring weight, tail length, reflex ontogeny and somatic maturation were assessed during lactation. At the end of the experiment, serum and liver retinol concentrations were measured. Animals from CB and RB groups showed delayed onset of palm grasp, righting reflex and cliff avoidance reflexes compared to the control group (CG). However, animals from RB group showed anticipation of auditory startle compared to those from BC group. Regarding somatic maturation indicators, animals from RB group showed delayed eye opening and eruption of superior and inferior incisors in relation to control and anticipation in the auditory conduit opening in relation to CB group. Rats from CB and RB groups showed higher serum and liver vitamin A contents. Buriti oil delays physical parameters and reflex maturation and increases serum and liver retinol deposition among neonatal rats.
The First Case Using Synthetic Vein for Jugular to Iliac Vein Bypass to Treat Superior Vena Cava Obstruction: Clinical Dilemma and Literature Review
Authors: Zaki Mohamed , Hynes Niamh , Alawy Mahmoud , Kassaby Mohamed El , Tawfick Wael , Sultan Sherif
Published: May 2015

Chronic refractory venous hypertension is a common complication following repeated central venous cannulation performed as a temporary vascular access for dialysis in patients with chronic renal failure. The symptoms of venous hypertension may diverge from being asymptomatic to severe edema, ulceration, headaches, bloating, and blackouts, especially if the patient has a surgical arteriovenous fistula for dialysis in any of his upper limbs. Treatment options for such patients are mainly directed toward endovascular management via balloon angioplasty and possibly stenting of the stenosed vein. Resistant lesions or cases with total venous occlusion coerce surgeons to consider surgical bypass. We present a case of a 43-year-old patient with history of renal impairment and repeated bilateral central venous cannulation for dialysis. The patient experienced superior vena cava syndrome with bilateral total occlusion of the internal jugular veins and both subclavian veins (with an occluded previously inserted stent) along with the superior vena cava. An extra-anatomical bypass was done from the left internal jugular vein to the left external iliac vein using a synthetic silver Dacron ringed graft. The procedure was successful and resulted in relief of the patient's symptoms and a dramatic improvement of the patient's quality of life. Superior vena cava syndrome represents 1 of the most challenging complications for patients with chronic renal impairment and repeated central venous cannulation. The endovascular approach is currently gaining popularity as the first line of treatment for such patients. However, surgical management is sometimes the only available option when the endovascular approach is not technically feasible. Our case, along with others, shows that an extra-anatomical synthetic graft bypass can be a reliable, less invasive option for the management of superior vena cava syndrome once surgical intervention is inevitable.
Radiology-Implanted Arm Ports: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Burbridge Brent , Stoneham Grant , Lim Hyun J. , Lee Chel-Hee
Published: May 2015

Introduction: Placement of totally implanted venous access devices, or port systems, in the upper arm is becoming a common practice in interventional radiology. To gain a better understanding of the literature in this area, we performed a search for and analysis of previous publications related to upper arm implantation of these devices by members of interventional radiology departments.

Methods: A review of the literature pertaining to upper arm port systems implanted in human beings by members of interventional radiology departments was performed, assessing publications between the years 1992 and 2014. Only English-language publications were assessed.

Results: Eighteen publications met selection criteria during the time frame reviewed. None of the studies used a prospective, randomized design; rather, all studies consisted of case–cohort descriptions of outcomes for a single device or for multiple devices. Analysis of the available literature for interventional radiology-inserted arm ports was performed. The technical success rate ranged between 93.7% and 100%, with an average of 98.9%.

Conclusions: The high technical success rate of arm port implantation and the elimination of the potential for pneumothorax, hemothorax, catheter pinch-off syndrome, and subclavian and carotid artery injury are strengths of the arm implantation strategy. There was wide variation in the rates of complications detected, in addition to inconsistent study design and study implementation strategies.
Loss of SOX2 expression induces cell motility via vimentin up‐regulation and is an unfavorable risk factor for survival of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bayo Pilar , Jou Adriana , Stenzinger Albrecht , Shao Chunxuan , Gross Madeleine , Jensen Alexandra , Grabe Niels , Mende Christel Herold , Rados Pantelis Varvaki , Debus Juergen , Weichert Wilko , Plinkert Peter K. , Lichter Peter , Freier Kolja , Hess Jochen
Published: May 2015

Recurrent gain on chromosome 3q26 encompassing the gene locus for the transcription factor SOX2 is a frequent event in human squamous cell carcinoma, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Numerous studies demonstrated that SOX2 expression and function is related to distinct aspects of tumor cell pathophysiology. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood, and the correlation between SOX2 expression and clinical outcome revealed conflicting data. Transcriptional profiling after silencing of SOX2 expression in a HNSCC cell line identified a set of up‐regulated genes related to cell motility (e.g. VIM, FN1, CDH2). The inverse regulation of SOX2 and aforementioned genes was validated in 18 independent HNSCC cell lines from different anatomical sites. The inhibition of cell migration and invasion by SOX2 was confirmed by constant or conditional gene silencing and accelerated motility of HNSCC cells after SOX2 silencing was partially reverted by down‐regulation of vimentin. In a retrospective study, SOX2 expression was determined by immunohistochemical staining on tissue microarrays containing primary tumor specimens of two independent HNSCC patient cohorts. Low SOX2 expression was found in 19.3% and 44.9% of primary tumor specimens, respectively. Univariate analysis demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between low SOX2 protein levels and reduced progression‐free survival (Cohort I 51 vs. 16 months; Cohort II 33 vs. 12 months) and overall survival (Cohort I 150 vs. 37 months; Cohort II 33 vs. 16 months). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard model analysis confirmed that low SOX2 expression serves as an independent prognostic marker for HNSCC patients. We conclude that SOX2 inhibits tumor cell motility in HNSCC cells and that low SOX2 expression serves as a prognosticator to identify HNSCC patients at high risk for treatment failure.
Acceleration and Orientation Jumping Performance Differences Among Elite Professional Male Handball Players With or Without Previous ACL Reconstruction: An Inertial Sensor Unit‐Based Study
Authors: Setuain Igor , González‐Izal Miriam , Alfaro Jesús , Gorostiaga Esteban , Izquierdo Mikel
Published: May 2015

Background

Handball is one of the most challenging sports for the knee joint. Persistent biomechanical and jumping capacity alterations can be observed in athletes with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Commonly identified jumping biomechanical alterations have been described by the use of laboratory technologies. However, portable and easy‐to‐handle technologies that enable an evaluation of jumping biomechanics at the training field are lacking.

Objective

To analyze unilateral/bilateral acceleration and orientation jumping performance differences among elite male handball athletes with or without previous ACL reconstruction via a single inertial sensor unit device.

Design

Case control descriptive study.

Setting

At the athletes' usual training court.

Participants

Twenty‐two elite male (6 ACL‐reconstructed and 16 uninjured control players) handball players were evaluated.

Methods

The participants performed a vertical jump test battery that included a 50‐cm vertical bilateral drop jump, a 20‐cm vertical unilateral drop jump, and vertical unilateral countermovement jump maneuvers.

Main outcome measurements

Peak 3‐dimensional (X, Y, Z) acceleration (m·s−2), jump phase duration and 3‐dimensional orientation values (°) were obtained from the inertial sensor unit device. Two‐tailed t‐tests and a one‐way analysis of variance were performed to compare means. The P value cut‐off for significance was set at P < .05.

Results

The ACL‐reconstructed male athletes did not show any significant (P < .05) residual jumping biomechanical deficits regarding the measured variables compared with players who had not suffered this knee injury. A dominance effect was observed among non‐ACL reconstructed controls but not among their ACL‐reconstructed counterparts (P < .05).

Conclusions

Elite male handball athletes with previous ACL reconstruction demonstrated a jumping biomechanical profile similar to control players, including similar jumping performance values in both bilateral and unilateral jumping maneuvers, several years after ACL reconstruction. These findings are in agreement with previous research showing full functional restoration of abilities in top‐level male athletes after ACL reconstruction, rehabilitation and subsequent return to sports at the previous level.
Sonographically Guided Semimembranosus Bursa Injection: Technique and Validation
Authors: Onishi Kentaro , Sellon Jacob L. , Smith Jay
Published: May 2015

Objectives

To describe and validate a sonographically guided (SG) semimembranosus (SM) bursa injection technique in an unembalmed cadaveric model.

Design

Prospective, cadaveric laboratory investigation.

Setting

Academic institution procedural skills laboratory.

Subjects

Ten unembalmed cadaveric thigh‐knee‐ankle‐foot specimens from 4 male and 6 female donors ages 55‐92 years (mean 76.2 years) with body mass indices of 15.4‐31.8 kg/m2 (mean 21.9 kg/m2).

Methods

A single, experienced operator completed SG SM bursa injections in 10 unembalmed cadaveric knees using 3 mL of diluted colored latex. At a minimum of 2 days after the injection, co‐investigators dissected the specimens to assess the distribution of latex with respect to the SM bursa.

Main Outcome

Injections were graded for accuracy as follows: accurate (all latex contained within the SM bursa), accurate with overflow (latex within the SM bursa and extending into regions other than the needle track), or inaccurate (no latex within the SM bursa).

Results

All 10 injections (100%) accurately placed latex within the SM bursa and resulted in proximal spread to at least the level of the knee joint. Eight of 10 injections (80%) demonstrated minimal (<1 mL) extrabursal flow without extension into the intra‐articular space. No neurovascular injury occurred in any specimen.

Conclusions

SG SM injections are feasible and accurate and may be considered for diagnostic and therapeutic injections in patients with suspected distal SM disorders. Injection volumes less than 3 mL should be considered to reduce extrabursal spread as clinically indicated.
Weekly paclitaxel plus cetuximab reduces the lung metastasis of adenoid cystic carcinoma arising from the salivary gland
Authors: Yoshioka Yukio , Toratani Shigeaki , Nakatao Hirotaka , Koizumi Kouichi , Hayashido Yasutaka , Okamoto Tetsuji
Published: May 2015

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the salivary gland often metastasizes to the lungs. It has previously been reported that the combination chemotherapy of weekly paclitaxel plus cetuximab is effective for the treatment of lung metastasis from ACC of the salivary gland. Here, we report a case in which a regimen of this combination therapy provided an antitumor treatment for lung metastatic ACC arising from the minor salivary gland of the hard palate.
Determining content for a simulation-based curriculum in pediatric emergency medicine: results from a national Delphi process
Authors: Bank Ilana , Cheng Adam , McLeod Peter , Bhanji Farhan
Published: May 2015

Objectives

By the end of residency training, pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) residents are expected to have developed the confidence and abilities required to manage acutely ill children. Acquisition of competence requires exposure and/or supplemental formal education for critical and noncritical medical clinical presentations. Simulation can provide experiential learning and can improve trainees’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes. The primary objective of this project was to identify the content for a simulation-based national curriculum for PEM training.

Methods

We recruited participants for the Delphi study by contacting current PEM program directors and immediate past program directors as well as simulation experts at all of the Canadian PEM fellowship sites. We determined the appropriate core content for the Delphi study by combining the PEM core content requirements of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) and the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). Using the Delphi method, we achieved consensus amongst the national group of PEM and simulation experts. The participants completed a three-round Delphi (using a four-point Likert scale).

Results

Response rates for the Delphi were 85% for the first round and 77% for second and third rounds. From the initial 224 topics, 53 were eliminated (scored <2). Eighty-five topics scored between 2 and 3, and 87 scored between 3 and 4. The 48 topics, which were scored between 3.5 and 4.0, were labeled as “key curriculum topics.”

Conclusion

We have iteratively identified a consensus for the content of a national simulation-based curriculum.
Vital Signs Are Not Associated with Self-Reported Acute Pain Intensity in the Emergency Department
Authors: Daoust Raoul , Paquet Jean , Bailey Benoit , Lavigne Gilles , Piette Éric , Sanogo Karine , Chauny Jean-Marc
Published: May 2015

Objectives

This study aimed to ascertain the association between self-reported pain intensity and vital signs in both emergency department (ED) patients and a subgroup of patients with diagnosed conditions known to produce significant pain.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of real-time, archived data from an electronic medical record system at an urban teaching hospital and regional community hospital. We included consecutive ED patients ≥16 years old who had a self-reported pain intensity ≥1 as measured during triage, from March 2005 to December 2012. The primary outcome was vital signs for self-reported pain intensity levels (mild, moderate, severe) on an 11-point verbal numerical scale. Changes in pain intensity levels were also compared to variations in vital signs. Both analyses were repeated on a subgroup of patients with diagnosed conditions recognized to produce significant pain: fracture, dislocation, or renal colic.

Results

We included 153,567 patients (mean age of 48.4±19.3 years; 55.5% women) triaged with pain (median intensity of 7/10±3). Of these, 8.9% of patients had diagnosed conditions recognized to produce significant pain. From the total sample, the difference between mild and severe pain categories was 2.7 beats/minutes (95% CI: 2.4−3.0) for heart rate and 0.13 mm Hg (95% CI: -0.26−0.52) for systolic blood pressure. These differences generated small effect sizes and were not clinically significant. Results were similar for patients who experienced changes in pain categories and for those conditions recognized to produce significant pain.

Conclusion

Health care professionals cannot use vital signs to estimate or substantiate self-reported pain intensity levels or changes over time.
A Culture in Transition: Paramedic Experiences with Community Referral Programs
Authors: Brydges Madison , Spearen Chris , Birze Arija , Tavares Walter
Published: May 2015

Objectives

As an aging population continues to place strain on the health care system, many older adults are living with unmet social and medical needs. In response, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) have initiated programs that encourage paramedics to refer patients in need to community based support services. This qualitative study explores frontline paramedic experiences with referral programs to identify opportunities and challenges in their practice.

Methods

This study used an intepretivist qualitative study design involving interviews of frontline paramedics employed in a region where referral programs were in place. Interviews were semi-structured and one-on-one. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using inductive open coding throughout, then grouped to identify themes. Data collection and analysis were conducted simultaneously and flexibly until saturation.

Results

Twenty-three interviews were conducted representing 6 regions. When participating with referral programs the data revealed that frontline paramedics appear to experience (a) role confusion, (b) an inadequate knowledge base, (c) inadequate feedback, (d) undefined accountability, and (e) strong patient advocacy.

Conclusions

In a strained health care system, EMS and paramedics have an opportunity to better serve patients by initiating referrals for patients they encounter with unmet social and medical needs. However, referral programs face a number of challenges that, if left poorly addressed, may threaten the success of such programs.
Engaging Families in Early Intervention for Child Conduct Concerns
Authors: Plath Debbie , Crofts Penny , Stuart Graeme
Published: May 2015

Early intervention programs assist families to deal with emerging child behavioural difficulties that are likely to worsen over time. Identifying families suited to an early intervention program and then generating their interest in the program can be an uncertain and complex process. This paper describes the approach to family engagement in a school-based early intervention program for children with emerging conduct problems, calledGot It!, and presents some of the findings from an external evaluation of the program conducted by the authors for New South Wales (NSW) Ministry of Health. Child behaviour screening questionnaires were completed by parents/carers and teachers, and qualitative data were gathered through interviews with parents/carers, teachers and health staff. The views of families who participated in the targeted intervention and those who were exposed only to the universal intervention were sought. Results indicate that offering the specialised group intervention in the school, in the context of universal interventions and screening, supported engagement with families of children with identified conduct problems. Many parents said they would not otherwise have sought assistance. A partnership approach between schools and specialist child and adolescent mental health services is a central feature of program delivery. Factors that contribute to an effective partnership are discussed.
Pope Francis and American Economics
Authors: Cloutier David
Published: May 2015

Reaction among conservatives to Pope Francis' Evangelii Gaudium has most often been negative. Ross Douthat, however, in his 2013 New York Times op-ed, has offered a more nuanced critique. Our four Roundtable authors respond to Douthat's implied invitation to a discussion by responding from the viewpoint of Catholic social thought.
Statistical Studies of Supernova Environments
Authors: Anderson Joseph P. , James Phil A. , Habergham Stacey M. , Galbany Lluís , Kuncarayakti Hanindyo
Published: May 2015

Mapping the diversity of SNe to progenitor properties is key to our understanding of stellar evolution and explosive stellar death. Investigations of the immediate environments of SNe allow statistical constraints to be made on progenitor properties such as mass and metallicity. Here, we review the progress that has been made in this field. Pixel statistics using tracers of e.g. star formation within galaxies show intriguing differences in the explosion sites of, in particular SNe types II and Ibc (SNe II and SNe Ibc respectively), suggesting statistical differences in population ages. Of particular interest is that SNe Ic are significantly more associated with host galaxy Hα emission than SNe Ib, implying shorter lifetimes for the former. In addition, such studies have shown (unexpectedly) that the interacting SNe IIn do not explode in regions containing the most massive stars, which suggests that at least a significant fraction of their progenitors arise from the lower end of the core-collapse SN mass range. Host H ii region spectroscopy has been obtained for a significant number of core-collapse events, however definitive conclusions on differences between distinct SN types have to-date been elusive. Single stellar evolution models predict that the relative fraction of SNe Ibc to SNe II should increase with increasing metallicity, due to the dependence of mass-loss rates on progenitor metallicity. We present a meta-analysis of all current host H ii region oxygen abundances for CC SNe. It is concluded that the SN II to SN Ibc ratio shows little variation with oxygen abundance, with only a suggestion that the ratio increases in the lowest bin. Radial distributions of different SNe are discussed, where a central excess of SNe Ibc has been observed within disturbed galaxy systems, which is difficult to ascribe to metallicity or selection effects. Environment studies are also being undertaken for SNe Ia, where constraints can be made on the shortest delay times of progenitor systems. It is shown that ‘redder’ SNe Ia are more often found within star-forming regions. Environment studies are evolving to enable studies at higher spatial resolutions than previously possible, while in addition the advent of wide-field integral field unit instruments allows galaxy-wide spectral analyses which will provide fruitful results to this field. Some example contemporary results are shown in that direction.
The Mopra Southern Galactic Plane CO Survey — Data Release 1
Authors: Braiding Catherine , Burton M. G. , Blackwell R. , Glück C. , Hawkes J. , Kulesa C. , Maxted N. , Rebolledo D. , Rowell G. , Stark A. , Tothill N. , Urquhart J. S. , Voisin F. , Walsh A. J. , de Wilt P. , Wong G. F.
Published: May 2015

We present observations of the first 10° of longitude in the Mopra CO survey of the southern Galactic plane, covering Galactic longitude l = 320–330° and latitude b = ±0.5°, and l = 327–330°, b = +0.5–1.0°. These data have been taken at 35-arcsec spatial resolution and 0.1 km s−1 spectral resolution, providing an unprecedented view of the molecular clouds and gas of the southern Galactic plane in the 109–115 GHz J = 1–0 transitions of 12CO, 13CO, C18O, and C17O. Together with information about the noise statistics from the Mopra telescope, these data can be retrieved from the Mopra CO website and the CSIRO-ATNF data archive.
Contribution of dietary starch to hepatic and systemic carbohydrate fluxes in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labraxL.)
Authors: Viegas Ivan , Rito João , Jarak Ivana , Leston Sara , Caballero-Solares Albert , Metón Isidoro , Pardal Miguel A. , Baanante Isabel V. , Jones John G.
Published: May 2015

In the present study, the effects of partial substitution of dietary protein by digestible starch on endogenous glucose production were evaluated in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). The fractional contribution of dietary carbohydratesv.gluconeogenesis to blood glucose appearance and hepatic glycogen synthesis was quantified in two groups of seabass fed with a diet containing 30 % digestible starch (DS) or without a carbohydrate supplement as the control (CTRL). Measurements were performed by transferring the fish to a tank containing water enriched with 5 %2H2O over the last six feeding days, and quantifying the incorporation of2H into blood glucose and hepatic glycogen by2H NMR. For CTRL fish, gluconeogenesis accounted for the majority of circulating glucose while for the DS fish, this contribution was significantly lower (CTRL 85 (sem4) %v.DS 54 (sem2) %;P< 0·001). Hepatic glycogen synthesis via gluconeogenesis (indirect pathway) was also significantly reduced in the DS fish, in both relative (CTRL 100 (sem1) %v.DS 72 (sem1) %;P< 0·001) and absolute terms (CTRL 28 (sem1)v.DS 17 (sem1) μmol/kg per h;P< 0·001). A major fraction of the dietary carbohydrates that contributed to blood glucose appearance (33 (sem1) % of the total 47 (sem2) %) had undergone exchange with hepatic glucose 6-phosphate. This indicated the simultaneous activity of hepatic glucokinase and glucose 6-phosphatase. In conclusion, supplementation of digestible starch resulted in a significant reduction of gluconeogenic contributions to systemic glucose appearance and hepatic glycogen synthesis.
Influence of the forms and levels of dietary selenium on antioxidant status and oxidative stress-related parameters in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fry
Authors: Fontagné-Dicharry Stéphanie , Godin Simon , Liu Haokun , Antony Jesu Prabhu Philip , Bouyssière Brice , Bueno Maïté , Tacon Philippe , Médale Françoise , Kaushik Sadasivam J.
Published: May 2015

Se is an essential micronutrient required for normal growth, development and antioxidant defence. The objective of the present study was to assess the impact of dietary Se sources and levels on the antioxidant status of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fry. First-feeding fry (initial body weight: 91 mg) were fed either a plant- or fishmeal-based diet containing 0·5 or 1·2 mg Se/kg diet supplemented or not with 0·3 mg Se/kg diet supplied as Se-enriched yeast or sodium selenite for 12 weeks at 17°C. Growth and survival of rainbow trout fry were not significantly affected by dietary Se sources and levels. Whole-body Se was raised by both Se sources and to a greater extent by Se-yeast. The reduced:oxidised glutathione ratio was raised by Se-yeast, whereas other lipid peroxidation markers were not affected by dietary Se. Whole-body Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity was enhanced in fish fed Se-yeast compared to fish fed sodium selenite or non-supplemented diets. Activity and gene expression of this enzyme as well as gene expression of selenoprotein P (SelP) were reduced in fish fed the non-supplemented plant-based diet. Catalase, glutamate–cysteine ligase and nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) gene expressions were reduced by Se-yeast. These results suggest the necessity to supplement plant-based diets with Se for rainbow trout fry, and highlight the superiority of organic form of Se to fulfil the dietary Se requirement and sustain the antioxidant status of fish. GPX and SelP expression proved to be good markers of Se status in fish.