bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood-compatible poly (2-methoxyethyl acrylate) for the adhesion and proliferation of lung cancer cells toward the isolation and analysis of circulating tumor cells
Authors: Hoshiba Takashi , Nikaido Mayo , Yagi Satomi , Konno Iku , Yoshihiro Ayano , Tanaka Masaru
Published: January 2016

Circulating tumor cells have received attention for their role in cancer diagnosis and the decision on which chemotherapeutic course to take. For these purposes, the isolation of circulating tumor cells has been important. Previously, we reported that non-blood cells can adhere on blood-compatible polymer substrates, such as poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate). In this study, we examined whether blood-compatible poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) allow the adhesion and growth of A549 lung cancer cells for isolating circulating tumor cells by adhesion-mediated manner to diagnose metastatic cancer and to decide on the chemotherapeutic course. A549 cells can adhere on poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) substrates via an integrin-dependent mechanism after 1 h of incubation, suggesting that blood-compatible poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) substrates possess the ability to capture circulating tumor cells selectively from peripheral blood. After 1 day of culture, A549 cells started to spread on poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) substrates. A549 can also grow on poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) substrates. Additionally, the chemoresistance of A549 cells against 5-fluorouracil on poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) substrates was similar to that on the conventional cell culture substrate, tissue culture polystyrene. These results indicate that circulating tumor cells can be cultured on poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) substrates after they are isolated from peripheral blood, and poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) substrates can be used as circulating tumor cell culture substrates for screening anti-cancer drugs. Therefore, poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) and poly(tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate) substrates might be able to be applied to the development of a new device for a circulating tumor cell–based diagnosis of metastatic cancer and a personalized medicine approach regarding the decision of which chemotherapeutic course should be taken.
Covalent streptavidin immobilization on electrospun poly(m-anthranilic acid)/polycaprolactone nanofibers and cytocompatibility
Authors: Polat Ece , Güler Zeliha , Balkan Timucin , Sarac A Sezai
Published: January 2016

An electrospun poly( m-anthranilic acid)/poly(ε-caprolactone) nanofiber mat was fabricated with functionalization of the surface with streptavidin which can enhance the cell attachment and proliferation. Poly(ε-caprolactone) as biodegradable, biocompatible, and electrospinnable polymer was blended with poly( m-anthranilic acid) because of the carboxylic acid (–COOH) groups on its backbone which allow the covalent immobilization of streptavidin onto nanofibers. 1-Ethyl-3-(dimethyl-aminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride/ N-hydroxyl succinimide coupling reaction was used for immobilization and the presence of bound protein was investigated by Fourier transform infrared–attenuated total reflection spectroscopy and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, as well as the confocal microscopy. Human osteoblast-like cells (SaOS2) were cultured on poly( m-anthranilic acid)/poly(ε-caprolactone) and streptavidin-immobilized poly( m-anthranilic acid)/poly(ε-caprolactone) nanofibers to evaluate the in vitro biocompatibility of nanofibers. Fluorescence staining of F-actin was performed to observe the cell morphology. The results confirmed the successful immobilization of streptavidin on the nanofibers and streptavidin immobilization enhanced the cell attachment and proliferation onto the poly( m-anthranilic acid)/poly(ε-caprolactone) nanofibers.
Radio frequency identification–enabled monitoring and evaluating in the discrete manufacturing process
Authors: Yuan Liuyin , Guo Yu , Wei Fangjian , Lu Kun , Jiang Jiajun , Nian Liyun
Published: January 2016

Process monitoring is a major focus on improving productivity of discrete manufacturing. With the recent application of new technologies such as radio frequency identification to manufacturing process, real-time production information has become available for decision support in manufacturing system. This study presents a radio frequency identification–based visibility monitoring rule for tracking work-in-process. Specific to the aviation manufacturing shop floor, a case study for demonstration is designed. The value of radio frequency identification–enabled real-time information is investigated within the discrete manufacturing operation. For this purpose, a simplified simulation model is developed to test the benefit of radio frequency identification–based rule compared to the classical scheduling rule. The results indicate that the adoption of radio frequency identification brings better production performance.
Changes in the exploitation dynamics of small terrestrial vertebrates and fish during the Pleistocene–Holocene transition in the SW Iberian Peninsula: A review
Authors: Dias Rita , Detry Cleia , Bicho Nuno
Published: January 2016

The Pleistocene–Holocene transition c. 11.5 ka cal. BP is associated with dramatic climatic changes. These events led to fundamental shifts in landscape and have, therefore, been seen as responsible for a major impact on the human ecological behavior of the last hunter–gatherers in the Western European territory. In the case of Iberian Peninsula, it is commonly assumed that these human ecological adaptations are reflected in the new settlement and subsistence patterns that characterized the Late Upper Paleolithic–Mesolithic transition. Following the argument, the main aim of this paper is to present the state-of-the-art and consider this theoretical model using zooarchaeological data of small terrestrial vertebrates and fish from SW Portugal. Archaeological data are reviewed and discussed in order to analyze the change in the exploitation of small game, birds, and aquatic resources during this period. In this paper, we reinforce the idea that in SW Iberia, subsistence intensification and diversification precede the transition itself and are more likely to be related to other long-term phenomena, cultural and/or demographical, than to the changes in settlement behavior. The state-of-the-art discussed here led to new research questions related to the role of small vertebrates on the changes in human subsistence behavior during the Pleistocene–Holocene from Western Iberia.
Critical review of the United Kingdom’s “gold standard” survey of public attitudes to science
Authors: Smith Benjamin K. , Jensen Eric A.
Published: January 2016

Since 2000, the UK government has funded surveys aimed at understanding the UK public’s attitudes toward science, scientists, and science policy. Known as the Public Attitudes to Science series, these surveys and their predecessors have long been used in UK science communication policy, practice, and scholarship as a source of authoritative knowledge about science-related attitudes and behaviors. Given their importance and the significant public funding investment they represent, detailed academic scrutiny of the studies is needed. In this essay, we critically review the most recently published Public Attitudes to Science survey (2014), assessing the robustness of its methods and claims. The review casts doubt on the quality of key elements of the Public Attitudes to Science 2014 survey data and analysis while highlighting the importance of robust quantitative social research methodology. Our analysis comparing the main sample and booster sample for young people demonstrates that quota sampling cannot be assumed equivalent to probability-based sampling techniques.
Impact of Combination Antibiogram and Related Education on Inpatient Fluoroquinolone Prescribing Patterns for Patients With Health Care–Associated Pneumonia
Authors: Liang Baoqi , Wheeler James S. , Blanchette Lisa M.
Published: January 2016

Background: Previous studies have shown that development of a unit-specific combination antibiogram improves optimal selection of empiric therapy for Gram-negative infections, yet no published data exist regarding the role of the combination antibiogram as an antimicrobial stewardship program tool for disease-specific prescribing. Objective: To evaluate the utility of a combination antibiogram to guide antibiotic prescribing for patients with health care–associated pneumonia (HCAP). Methods: This was a retrospective preprovider and postprovider education intervention study aimed to evaluate fluoroquinolone (FQ) use in patients with HCAP. Data were collected retrospectively to evaluate antibiotic prescribing patterns and patient outcomes. Results: A total of 87 patients were eligible for study inclusion. The primary end point, FQ days of therapy (DOT) was decreased by 2.3 days ( P < 0.001). The secondary end point included FQ DOT per 1000 patient-days in patients with discharge diagnosis-related group of pneumonia and was decreased by 83.5 days ( P = 0.08 ); double coverage reduced by 13% postintervention ( P = 0.22); mean days of double coverage decreased by 2.1 days ( P < 0.001), and length of stay was shortened by 2.1 days ( P = 0.22). Clinical success was achieved more often in the postintervention group (90% vs 98%, P = 0.18) when compared with the preintervention group. No difference was found in microbiological outcomes in the subset of microbiologically evaluable patients ( P = 0.57). Conclusion: Facility-specific combination antibiograms may be used to inform antibiotic prescribing in HCAP patients.
Medication Desensitization
Authors: Murray Taryn S. , Rice Todd W. , Wheeler Arthur P. , Phillips Elizabeth J. , Dworski Ryszard T. , Stollings Joanna L.
Published: January 2016

Background: Although its mechanisms are poorly understood, desensitization has been used to induce a temporary state of immune unresponsiveness in patients who have IgE-, non-IgE-, or pharmacologically mediated reactions when a drug has no alternatives. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to characterize the outcomes and identify risk factors for reactions during drug desensitization. Methods: A retrospective review of electronic medical records of adult patients undergoing drug desensitization from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2013, was conducted in 2 intensive care units at a tertiary medical center. We used multivariate analysis to determine if specified risk factors were associated with reacting during the desensitization. Reactions were classified according to the pretest probability prior to desensitization, and then, reactions during desensitization were classified based on the occurrence of cutaneous reactions as follows: successful with no reaction, mild reaction, moderate reaction, or failed. Failure could result from any systemic allergic or cutaneous reaction resulting in procedure termination. The desensitizations were also assessed to determine if the patient required de-escalation secondary to a reaction. Results: A total of 88 desensitizations were performed in 69 patients. Desensitization was completed with no cutaneous reaction in 85% of patients. No baseline characteristic, medication class ( P = 0.46), or indication for desensitization ( P = 0.59) was associated with having a reaction. Reported histories of urticaria ( P < 0.0001) and labored breathing ( P = 0.003) during prior exposure were significant in identifying patients who might have a reaction during desensitization. However, neither history of urticaria nor labored breathing was independently associated with having a reaction in multivariate analysis (OR = 0.979, 95% CI = 0.325-2.952, P = 0.970, and OR = 1.626, 95% CI = 0.536-4.931, P = 0.739, respectively). Conclusions: Drug desensitization is safe for patients who have no alternative for therapy. Reported allergy histories of urticaria and labored breathing are both associated with having a reaction during the desensitization process.
Apremilast
Authors: Haber Stacy L. , Hamilton Sarah , Bank Mark , Leong Shi Yun , Pierce Evelyn
Published: January 2016

Objective: To review the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of apremilast and determine its role relative to other agents in the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Data Sources: A PubMed search (1946 to December 2015) using the terms apremilast and CC-10004 was conducted to identify relevant articles. Study Selection and Data Extraction: In vitro or in vivo evaluations of apremilast published in the English language were eligible for inclusion. Controlled clinical trials that involved psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis were selected for review. Data Synthesis: Four trials were identified on the treatment of psoriasis. In those that involved doses of 30 mg twice daily, a significantly greater percentage of patients receiving apremilast (28.8% to 40.9%) compared with placebo (5.3% to 5.8%) achieved at least 75% improvement from baseline in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score at 16 weeks. Two trials were identified on the treatment of psoriatic arthritis. In the one that involved a dose of 30 mg twice daily, a significantly greater percentage of patients receiving apremilast (38.1%) compared with placebo (19.0%) achieved the American College of Rheumatology criteria for 20% improvement at 16 weeks. In all trials, the drug had an acceptable safety profile, with the most common adverse effects of diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Conclusions: Apremilast has a novel mechanism of action and is safe and effective for the management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. At this time, apremilast should be reserved for patients unable to take disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.
Operative Treatment of Fifth Metatarsal Jones Fractures (Zones II and III) in the NBA
Authors: O’Malley Martin , DeSandis Bridget , Allen Answorth , Levitsky Matthew , O’Malley Quinn , Williams Riley
Published: January 2016

Background:

Proximal fractures of the fifth metatarsal (zone II and III) are common in the elite athlete and can be difficult to treat because of a tendency toward delayed union, nonunion, or refracture. The purpose of this case series was to report our experience in treating 10 NBA players, determine the healing rate, return to play, refracture rate, and role of foot type in these athletes.

Methods:

The records of 10 professional basketball players were retrospectively reviewed. Seven athletes underwent standard percutaneous internal fixation with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) whereas the other 3 had open bone grafting primarily in addition to fixation and BMAC. Radiographic features evaluated included fourth-fifth intermetatarsal, fifth metatarsal lateral deviation, calcaneal pitch, and metatarsus adductus angles.

Results:

Radiographic healing was observed at an overall average of 7.5 weeks and return to play was 9.8 weeks. Three athletes experienced refractures. There were no significant differences in clinical features or radiographic measurements except that the refracture group had the highest metatatarsus adductus angles. Most athletes were pes planus and 9 of 10 had a bony prominence under the fifth metatarsal styloid.

Conclusion:

This is the largest published series of operatively treated professional basketball players who exemplify a specific patient population at high risk for fifth metatarsal fracture. These players were large and possessed a unique foot type that seemed to be associated with increased risk of fifth metatarsal fracture and refracture. This foot type had forefoot metatarsus adductus and a fifth metatarsal that was curved with a prominent base. We continue to use standard internal fixation with bone marrow aspirate but advocate additional prophylactic open bone grafting in patients with high fourth-to-fifth intermetatarsal, fifth metatarsal lateral deviation, and metatarsus adductus angles as well as prominent fifth metatarsal styloids in order to improve fracture healing and potentially decrease the risk of refracture.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Intraoperative Embolization and Cognitive Decline After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Patel Nikil , Minhas Jatinder S. , Chung Emma M. L.
Published: January 2016

Since the advent of cardiac surgery, complications have existed in many forms. Recent work has focused on the safety of current cardiac surgery with particular emphasis on cognitive outcomes. Cardiopulmonary bypass has improved the safety of operative practice; however, increasing concern surrounds the measurable and immeasurable impact embolization has on the brain. New ischemic lesions have been associated with distant emboli, which intraoperatively enter the cardiovascular system. This has prompted better characterization of the nature of emboli manifesting as cognitive impairment postoperatively. The difficulty in attributing causation relates to the subclinical damage that does not necessarily manifest as clinical stroke. Transcranial Doppler has become an important tool in documenting cerebral emboli during surgery. The purpose of this systematic review is to focus on the current literature to improve our understanding of the impact embolization has on the brain. We also aim to investigate which cardiac interventions hold the greatest burden of embolic load and how previous literature has investigated the impact of emboli on cognition by monitoring emboli during specific cardiac interventions. Significant intraoperative factors such as the cardiopulmonary bypass machine and surgical interventions have been highlighted to summarize the current literature associating cerebral embolization with these factors and postoperative cognitive outcomes. The findings of this review report that the current literature is divided as to whether the impact of embolization during cardiac surgery has any adverse impact on cognition. This review highlights that the ultimate goal of improving cognitive safety will involve further careful consideration of multifactorial events.
Noteworthy Articles in 2015 for the Cardiothoracic Anesthesiologist
Authors: Varelmann Dirk J. , Muehlschlegel J. Daniel
Published: January 2016

Large multicenter, randomized controlled trials published in reputable journals had a large impact on the world of cardiothoracic anesthesia in 2015. We as cardiac anesthesiologists pride ourselves as being experts in applied physiology, physics, ultrasonography, and pharmacology/pharmacotherapy. The selected studies added to our knowledge in the fields of echocardiography, pharmacology, molecular biology, and genetics. Outcome studies shine a light on important topics that are relevant to all cardiac anesthesiologists: does surgical atrial fibrillation ablation during mitral valve surgery reduce the recurrence of atrial fibrillation at 1 year after surgery? Does remote ischemic preconditioning live up to its promise to reduce postoperative major cardiac and cerebral events? Although we still do not have the answer to all the questions, the year 2015 has been a great step toward the goal of understanding molecular mechanisms of ischemic myocardial injury and toward providing evidence-based medicine for improving patient outcome.
The Effectiveness of Gaseous Formaldehyde Decontamination Assessed by Biological Monitoring
Authors: Abraham G. , Smith P. M. Le Blanc , Nguyen S.
Published: January 2016

The results of seven years experience of the effectiveness of routine gaseous formaldehyde decontamination of rooms, filter canisters and biological safety cabinets at ambient temperature are reported. The effectiveness of each decontamination was monitored biologically by the inactivation of Bacillus stearothermophilus spores at five locations in rooms and biological safety cabinets and at two locations in filter canisters. A greater than 104 reduction in viability was achieved for each group of five spore tests in 92% of room decontaminations and each group of five spore tests in 81% of biological safety cabinet decontaminations, and a greater than 104.7 reduction for both spore tests in 83% of filter canister decontaminations. This long-term study of 2,308 routine formaldehyde decontaminations of varying spaces in practical situations demonstrates the reliability of the procedure. The results confirm that previously-described methods can be applied with confidence for routine decontaminations of laboratory facilities and equipment.
A Study of Aflatoxin Production by Aspergillus Flavus Growing on Wallboard
Authors: Rao Carol Y. , Fink Richard C. , Wolfe Linda B. , Liberman Daniel F. , Burge Harriet A.
Published: January 2016

The potential for exposure to mycotoxins in indoor environments is of increasing concern. In order to evaluate the potential for mycotoxin production by toxigenic fungi growing on water-damaged building materials, two aflatoxin producing strains of Aspergillus flavus (American Type Culture Collection 16875 and 15547) were inoculated onto culture media, plain wallboard, and vinyl wallpapered wallboard (cellulose-based and wheat-based wallpaper paste) and incubated at high relative humidity and room temperature for up to 16 weeks. Each sample was extracted with 60% methanol and aflatoxins in the crude extract were collected by immunoaffinity chromatography and quantified by fluorometry. Analysis by high performance liquid chromatography was performed for confirmation. Varying degrees of fungal growth were evident on all tested substrate types. Up to 4800 ppb of aflatoxin was detected when strain ATCC 16875 was grown on potato dextrose agar. However, when inoculation was standardized to minimize initial aflatoxin concentration in the inoculum, aflatoxin production was not detected on any wallboard sample under any of the incubation conditions provided. The presence of a toxigenic fungal strain on an indoor substrate does not necessarily indicate that the fungus is producing mycotoxins and our data provide evidence that wet wallboard is unlikely to provide appropriate conditions for aflatoxin production.
Sharps Disposal Containers: Selection, Evaluation, and Use
Authors: Kasting Christine H. , Martin Linda S. , Mullan Robert J.
Published: January 2016

Occupational transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been documented. The risk of infection with HIV following one needlestick exposure is approximately 0.3% and ranges from 6% to 30% for FMV and from 3.3% to 10% for hepatitis C. The diversity of health care settings makes selection of a single sharps disposal container design inappropriate in many cases. No single sharps disposal container design meets all the disposal containment needs for an entire facility. Selection of any specific container(s) should be based on a comprehensive site-specific hazard analysis. Criteria for the design, selection, and appropriate use of sharps containers were developed. The sharps disposal container safety performance criteria are divided into four areas. First, containers should remain functional during their entire usage. Second, containers must be accessible to workers who use, maintain, or dispose of sharp devices. Third, containers should be visible o the workers who must use them. Last, container designs should provide accommodation to the user, the facility, and the environment. Although engineering controls, such as needleless IV systems and “safety” needles, will reduce injuries, proper selection and use of disposal containers is still important. Prevention strategies include implementation of engineering controls, use of personal protective equipment, training, and the involvement of occupational health professionals and workers.
Outbreak of thiamine deficiency in cats associated with the feeding of defective dry food
Authors: Chang Ya-Pei , Chiu Po-Yu , Lin Chung-Tien , Liu I-Hsuan , Liu Chen-Hsuan
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine disease progression, association between neurological signs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and long-term outcome in feline thiamine deficiency associated with defective dry food.

Methods

The clinical records of 17 cats diagnosed with thiamine deficiency related to a defective dry food were examined and data collected. The thiamine level in the food was analysed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

The thiamine level in the food was below the recommendation of the National Research Council. Fifteen cats were fed the food exclusively. Prior to the acute development of neurological signs, most cats displayed non-specific signs such as anorexia, lethargy or vomiting. Vestibular signs of varying severity were observed in 94% of the cats, and all but one of these presented with bilateral dysfunction. Other main neurological signs included altered mentation (76%), blindness (59%) and seizures (59%). Moreover, 80% of the cats with seizures presented with cluster seizures or status epilepticus. MRI abnormalities consistent with findings reported in the previous literature were detected in five cases. MRI was unremarkable in one cat with ongoing severe neurological signs even though thiamine had been administered. Most surviving cats recovered rapidly within 2 weeks of treatment and had either returned to normal or had minimal neurological signs at the 2 month follow-up. One cat recovered slowly over 6 months. Most cats with seizures in the initial stage of the disease remained seizure free at the 24 month follow-up.

Conclusions and relevance

This study documented the association between feline thiamine deficiency and defective dry food. MRI examination provided valuable information in the diagnosis. However, normal MRI findings do not exclude the diagnosis of feline thiamine deficiency, especially once thiamine has been supplemented. MRI findings also may not always reflect the neurological status or severity. If treated promptly, most cats will recover rapidly with a good outcome. Occasionally, recovery may be slow and take several months.
Serum acute phase proteins in Dirofilaria immitis and Wolbachia seropositive cats
Authors: Silvestre-Ferreira Ana C , Vieira Lisete , Vilhena Hugo , Cerón Jose J , Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Montoya-Alonso José A , Carretón Elena , Pastor Josep
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to characterise the response of acute phase proteins (APPs) in cats seropositive for Dirofilaria immitis and to its endosymbiont bacterium Wolbachia.

Methods

The APPs serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp) and ceruloplasmin (Cp) were measured in 25 seropositive cats and in 16 healthy seronegative cats.

Results

SAA and Cp concentrations were significantly higher in animals with D immitis seropositivity that exhibited clinical signs related to the disease, and Hp was elevated in all D immitis-seropositive animals. There was no significant correlation between APPs and D immitis or Wolbachia species antibody titres.

Conclusions and relevance

An association between feline seropositivity to D immitis and APP response was demonstrated. Increases in serum SAA and Cp concentrations were related to D immitis-associated clinical signs, whereas Hp increased in all seropositive animals.
Compensation is for real: Evidence from existing groups in the context of actual relations
Authors: Cambon Laurent , Yzerbyt Vincent Y.
Published: January 2016

Compensation refers to the fact that a group perceived as higher than another on one of the fundamental dimensions of social judgment (competence and warmth) is also perceived as lower than the other group on the other dimension. Relying on a full-crossed design, the present work tested compensation in a real-life situation using existing groups involved in an ongoing relation. As predicted, compensation emerged when (a) the difference between the groups, and thus the perceived legitimacy of the status difference, was large as opposed to small, and (b) the relation between the groups was asymmetrical. In contrast, the smaller the difference (the lesser the legitimacy), the more ingroup bias emerged.
Being different at work: How gender dissimilarity relates to social inclusion and absenteeism
Authors: Jansen Wiebren S. , Otten Sabine , van der Zee Karen I.
Published: January 2016

We investigated how and when gender dissimilarity relates to two highly important individual work outcomes: social inclusion and absenteeism. We collected survey data among 397 employees from a university of applied sciences and combined these with data from the organization’s personnel administration. Our results indicate that dissimilarity was negatively related to perceived work group inclusion. In addition, this negative effect was stronger when the group was perceived to have a negative diversity climate. Finally, there was a conditional indirect effect of gender dissimilarity on absenteeism through inclusion. That is, being different from other group members in terms of gender was associated with higher absenteeism through lower levels of perceived inclusion, but only when the group was perceived to have a negative diversity climate. Together, the present research demonstrates that sometimes being different is associated with more absences and underlines the importance of establishing a positive climate for gender diversity.
Reflections on dead theory in International Relations
Authors: Thakur Vineet
Published: January 2016

In this short autobiographical essay, I trace my journey in the discipline of International Relations. While entering the discipline, I, along with a host of my classmates, were enamoured by the exciting possibilities of thinking theoretically. Almost a decade later, those promises look bleak. From the perspective of a student in the discipline, I discuss why this may be so.
Moving beyond the canon: Reflections of a young African scholar of political theory
Authors: Omar Ayesha
Published: January 2016

In this short paper, I reflect on the issue of what the decolonisation of political theory might constitute. I consider what it would mean to deparochialise and decolonise political theory for it is within the discipline of political theory, that a charge of eurocentrism is particularly valid. First, this is because what we teach and study as African political theorists merely perpetuates the idea that thinking and theorising around the normative questions of politics has traditionally been a Western dominated concern. Second, it is because it is within the discipline of political theory, that a eurocentrism of ideas is more apparent and evident as opposed to elsewhere in political science as both our research and pedagogical objectives have been confined almost exclusively to the Western ‘canon’.
‘State of the art’ or dismal science? The economic debate in South Africa since 1994
Authors: Fryer David
Published: January 2016

Both the loss of prestige caused to mainstream economics by the global financial crisis and the resurgence of heterodox economics have proved to be superficial. ‘Where it counts’ (in the teaching of economics, in the most important policy circles, and in the most prestigious journals) neoliberal economics has proven resilient to dissent. Political dissent at South Africa’s self-imposed structural adjustment programme peaked in 2007 at the ANC’s elective conference and has subsequently lost impetus. Heterodox economics, although providing a more compelling account of the post-apartheid period, has for the most part been unable to penetrate the neoliberal bubble. This state of affairs is partly due to power relations, but it is also a function of the kind of economics that is regarded in the profession as ‘state of the art’.
Away with Good Bantus: De-linking African language literature from culture, ‘tribe’ and propriety
Authors: Mkhize Nomalanga
Published: January 2016

This paper argues that the ‘institutionalisation' model used by universities to spearhead the intellectualisation of African languages is a non-starter for taking African languages in new creative directions. The major constraint for African language literary culture is that written output has historically been heavily bent towards conservative themes, in which cultural pride and propriety take centre stage: that is, a literature that speaks to ‘Good Bantus’. I argue that the literary tradition, particularly in schools and universities, has been marked largely by three characteristics: (i) the close linkage between ethnic identity and language; (ii) use of African language as cultural reclamation and pride; and (iii) narratological stagnation and lack of inventiveness in literary production. To bring life into African languages in the academy requires aesthetic inventiveness and transgression. For this to happen, literary regeneration ought to be at the heart of the African language intellectualisation project promoted by the academy.
Hope as a political category
Authors: Kentridge William
Published: January 2016

This is a lightly edited text of an address given to the graduating class of the University of Cape Town in December 2014. The author points out that the studio has made him. It is, however, ‘a place where the world is taken apart and re-arranged’ and ‘where peripheral thinking is demanded’. Like the studio, contemporary South Africa is a place of contradictions where instability and provisionality are the order of the day, and where a happy ending is not assured. A degree in the Humanities is a ‘blessing’ because it enables a graduate to appreciate that contradictions (and viewing the life from the edge) are the only (real) ways to understand life and the country.
The arts in contemporary South African higher education: Film and media studies
Authors: Rijsdijk Ian-Malcolm
Published: January 2016

Twenty years after South Africa’s first democratic elections, what is the state of film and media studies education at the country’s higher education institutions? The article examines several key debates, from calls for the decolonisation of curricula to the tension between internationalisation and local research in local media industries. Is film and media studies reiterating ‘the logic of the present system’, or does it offer new avenues for scholars to pursue progressive and decolonising projects in the South African university?
Political studies: An entry into ‘social science thought’ in the South African academy
Authors: Tselapedi Thapelo
Published: January 2016

This paper briefly examines the epistemic orientation of the Politics discipline in South Africa, and specifically in ‘formerly white universities’. The focus is to expose the disparity between this epistemic orientation and the South African locale that it finds itself in; that is, a locale whose history is different from its ‘imperial center’, yet is diagnosed and measured in accordance with instruments defined by this very same center. To break with the hegemony of this episteme, I suggest, not only is it essential to have Black thinkers take their place in the South African academic community, but to develop a more African-based curriculum that responds, adequately, to South African and Continental problems.
‘Disappearance’ and feminist research in the South African academy of humanities1
Authors: Bennett Jane
Published: January 2016

Following a global trend in humanities since the mid-1970s, South African humanities faculties began to include formal programmes in gender and sexualities studies from the mid-1990s on. While the immediate post-flag democratic era encouraged intellectual concentration on diverse questions of power and knowledge, the new century saw a decline in academics’ critical interest in questions of gender, race and class. This article explores the seeming ‘disappearance’ of humanities-based and rigorous debate which assumes the value of feminisms.
Decolonizing the university: New directions
Authors: Joseph Mbembe Achille
Published: January 2016

What are the limits placed on the ‘decolonization’ project by the forces of neoliberalism? How are the latter affecting the future of the university? Is ‘decolonization’ the same as ‘Africanization’?
Identifying Parathyroid Glands With Carbon Nanoparticle Suspension Does Not Help Protect Parathyroid Function in Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Liu Xu , Chang Shi , Jiang Xiaolin , Huang Peng , Yuan Zhengtai
Published: January 2016

Objective. We aim to evaluate the technique of identifying parathyroid glands with carbon nanoparticle suspension (CNPS) in thyroid surgeries from the perspectives of degrees of declining intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), operation time, and time of postoperative stay. Methods. A total of 156 patients who underwent thyroid surgeries in General Surgical Department of Xiangya Hospital between May 2012 and May 2015 were involved in the study. A total of 78 patients were injected with CNPS during the surgery (CNPS group); the other 78 patients received normal saline (control group). Cases were classified into 3 surgical approaches: conventional partial thyroidectomy, conventional total thyroidectomy, and endoscopic partial thyroidectomy. Degrees of declining iPTH were tested to determine the severity of parathyroid injury. Operation time and postoperative hospital stay time were recorded. A P value of less than .05 was considered statistically significant. Results. For levels of declining iPTH, there was no statistically significant (ss) difference in conventional thyroid surgery. In endoscopic partial thyroidectomy, it was 23.37 ± 16.20 versus 11.94 ± 11.23 pg/mL ( P = .02, ss). The operation time of conventional total thyroidectomy was 210.10 ± 83.75 versus 164.84 ± 69.22 minutes ( P = .03, ss), while it was 193.04 ± 75.53 versus 127.67 ± 60.06 minutes ( P = .007, ss) in endoscopic thyroidectomy. Conclusions. CNPS is not beneficial for protecting the function of parathyroid gland in thyroid surgery from the perspective of declining iPTH. Applying CNPS in conventional total thyroidectomy and endoscopic partial thyroidectomy will also lead to significantly prolonged operation time.
Risk factors for complications in patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Manser Christine N , Borovicka Jan , Seibold Frank , Vavricka Stephan R , Lakatos Peter L , Fried Michael , Rogler Gerhard ,   investigators of the Swiss Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cohort Study
Published: January 2016

Background

Patients with ulcerative colitis may develop extraintestinal manifestations like erythema nodosum or primary sclerosing cholangitis or extraintestinal complications like anaemia, malabsorption or they may have to undergo surgery.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate potential risk factors for complications like anaemia, malabsorption or surgery in ulcerative colitis.

Methods

Data on 179 patients with ulcerative colitis were retrieved from our cross‐sectional and prospective Swiss Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cohort Study data base for a median observational time of 4.2 years. Data were compared between patients with (n  = 140) or without (n  = 39) complications. Gender, age at diagnosis, smoking status, disease extent, delay of diagnosis or therapy, mesalamine (5‐ASA) systemic and topical therapy, as well as other medication were analysed as potential impact factors.

Results

In the multivariate regression analysis a delay of 5‐ASA treatment by at least two months (odds ratio (OR) 6.21 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.13–18.14), p  = 0.001) as well as a delay with other medication with thiopurines (OR 6.48 (95% CI 2.01–20.91), p  = 0.002) were associated with a higher risk for complications. This significant impact of a delay of 5‐ASA therapy was demonstrated for extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) as well as extraintestinal complications (EICs). Extensive disease as well as therapy with methotrexate showed a significantly increased risk for surgery (extensive disease: OR 2.62 (1.02–6.73), p  = 0.05, methotrexate: OR 5.36 (1.64–17.58), p  = 0.006).

Conclusions

A delay of 5‐ASA therapy of more than two months in the early stage of ulcerative colitis (UC) constitutes a risk for complications during disease course. Extensive disease is associated with a higher risk for surgery.
It’s time to scale the science in the social sciences
Authors: Raghavan Prabhakar
Published: January 2016

The social sciences are at a remarkable confluence of events. Advances in computing have made it feasible to analyze data at the scale of the population of the world. How can we combine the depth of inquiry in the social sciences with the scale and robustness of statistics and computer science? Can we decompose complex questions in the social sciences into simpler, more robustly testable hypotheses? We discuss these questions and the role of machine learning in the social sciences.
Linkage between the mechanisms of thrombocytopenia and thrombopoiesis
Authors: Eto Koji , Kunishima Shinji
Published: January 2016

Thrombocytopenia is defined as a status in which platelet numbers are reduced. Imbalance between the homeostatic regulation of platelet generation and destruction is 1 potential cause of thrombocytopenia. In adults, platelet generation is a 2-stage process entailing the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells into mature megakaryocytes (MKs; known as megakaryopoiesis) and release of platelets from MKs (known as thrombopoiesis or platelet biogenesis). Until recently, information about the genetic defects responsible for congenital thrombocytopenia was only available for a few forms of the disease. However, investigations over the past 15 years have identified mutations in genes encoding >20 different proteins that are responsible for these disorders, which has advanced our understanding of megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis. The underlying pathogenic mechanisms can be categorized as (1) defects in MK lineage commitment and differentiation, (2) defects in MK maturation, and (3) defect in platelet release. Using these developmental stage categories, we here update recently described mechanisms underlying megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis and discuss the association between platelet generation systems and thrombocytopenia.
Genomic landscape of megakaryopoiesis and platelet function defects
Authors: Bianchi Elisa , Norfo Ruggiero , Pennucci Valentina , Zini Roberta , Manfredini Rossella
Published: January 2016

Megakaryopoiesis is a complex, stepwise process that takes place largely in the bone marrow. At the apex of the hierarchy, hematopoietic stem cells undergo a number of lineage commitment decisions that ultimately lead to the production of polyploid megakaryocytes. On average, megakaryocytes release 1011 platelets per day into the blood that repair vascular injuries and prevent excessive bleeding. This differentiation process is tightly controlled by exogenous and endogenous factors, which have been the topics of intense research in the hematopoietic field. Indeed, a skewing of megakaryocyte commitment and differentiation may entail the onset of myeloproliferative neoplasms and other preleukemic disorders together with acute megakaryoblastic leukemia, whereas quantitative or qualitative defects in platelet production can lead to inherited platelet disorders. The recent advent of next-generation sequencing has prompted mapping of the genomic landscape of these conditions to provide an accurate view of the underlying lesions. The aims of this review are to introduce the physiological pathways of megakaryopoiesis and to present landmark studies on acquired and inherited disorders that target them. These studies have not only introduced a new era in the fields of molecular medicine and targeted therapies but may also provide us with a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying normal megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis that can inform efforts to create alternative sources of megakaryocytes and platelets.
An integrative analysis of gene expression and molecular interaction data to identify dys-regulated sub-networks in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Muraro Daniele , Simmons Alison
Published: January 2016

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) consists of two main disease-subtypes, Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC); these subtypes share overlapping genetic and clinical features. Genome-wide microarray data enable unbiased documentation of alterations in gene expression that may be disease-specific. As genetic diseases are believed to be caused by genetic alterations affecting the function of signalling pathways, module-centric optimisation algorithms, whose aim is to identify sub-networks that are dys-regulated in disease, are emerging as promising approaches.

Results

In order to account for the topological structure of molecular interaction networks, we developed an optimisation algorithm that integrates databases of known molecular interactions with gene expression data; such integration enables identification of differentially regulated network modules. We verified the performance of our algorithm by testing it on simulated networks; we then applied the same method to study experimental data derived from microarray analysis of CD and UC biopsies and human interactome databases. This analysis allowed the extraction of dys-regulated subnetworks under different experimental conditions (inflamed and uninflamed tissues in CD and UC). Optimisation was performed to highlight differentially expressed network modules that may be common or specific to the disease subtype.

Conclusions

We show that the selected subnetworks include genes and pathways of known relevance for IBD; in particular, the solutions found highlight cross-talk among enriched pathways, mainly the JAK/STAT signalling pathway and the EGF receptor signalling pathway. In addition, integration of gene expression with molecular interaction data highlights nodes that, although not being differentially expressed, interact with differentially expressed nodes and are part of pathways that are relevant to IBD. The method proposed here may help identifying dys-regulated sub-networks that are common in different diseases and sub-networks whose dys-regulation is specific to a particular disease.
Differential requirement of bone morphogenetic protein receptors Ia (ALK3) and Ib (ALK6) in early embryonic patterning and neural crest development
Authors: Schille Carolin , Heller Jens , Schambony Alexandra
Published: January 2016

Background

Bone morphogenetic proteins regulate multiple processes in embryonic development, including early dorso-ventral patterning and neural crest development. BMPs activate heteromeric receptor complexes consisting of type I and type II receptor-serine/threonine kinases. BMP receptors Ia and Ib, also known as ALK3 and ALK6 respectively, are the most common type I receptors that likely mediate most BMP signaling events. Since early expression patterns and functions in Xenopus laevis development have not been described, we have addressed these questions in the present study.

Results

Here we have analyzed the temporal and spatial expression patterns of ALK3 and ALK6; we have also carried out loss-of-function studies to define the function of these receptors in early Xenopus development. We detected both redundant and non-redundant roles of ALK3 and ALK6 in dorso-ventral patterning. From late gastrula stages onwards, their expression patterns diverged, which correlated with a specific, non-redundant requirement of ALK6 in post-gastrula neural crest cells. ALK6 was essential for induction of neural crest cell fate and further development of the neural crest and its derivatives.

Conclusions

ALK3 and ALK6 both contribute to the gene regulatory network that regulates dorso-ventral patterning; they play partially overlapping and partially non-redundant roles in this process. ALK3 and ALK6 are independently required for the spatially restricted activation of BMP signaling and msx2 upregulation at the neural plate border, whereas in post-gastrula development ALK6 exerts a highly specific, conserved function in neural crest development.