bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concept Mapping: Application of a Community-Based Methodology in Three Urban Aboriginal Populations
Authors: Firestone Michelle , Smylie Janet , Maracle Sylvia , Siedule Connie , De dwa da dehs nye>s Aboriginal Health Access Centre  , Métis Nation of Ontario  , O'Campo Patricia
Published: July 2015

The goal of this research was to develop accessible and culturally relevant urban Aboriginal health information in Ontario. Concept mapping was used to engage Aboriginal stakeholders in identifying health concerns and priorities, with key stakeholders participating from three communities: First Nations people in Hamilton through De dwa da dehs ney>s Aboriginal Health Access Centre (DAHC), Inuit people in Ottawa through Tungasuvvingat Inuit Family Health Team (TIFHT) and Métis people in Ottawa through the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO). Each community participated in the three concept-mapping activities and generated statements regarding health and health related issues in their communities. Concept systems software was used to create initial cluster maps, which were finalized during map interpretation sessions. Each of the clusters on the unique community maps represented a community health domain. The chosen domain labels and their ratings strongly reflected local First Nations, Inuit, and Métis understandings of health. Concept mapping is found to be an effective and culturally relevant community-based method for urban Aboriginal health research, building on traditional indigenous methods, encouraging cross-community participation and contributing to three unique health assessment tools that challenge existing illness-based narratives for these populations and reflect indigenous-specific social determinants of health.
In Memoriam: Troy Johnson
Authors: Champagne Duane
Published: July 2015

In Memoriam
Biocultural Engineering Design: An Anishinaabe Analysis for Building Sustainable Nations
Authors: Droz PennElys
Published: July 2015

The fields of ecological engineering, resilience research, and Anishinaabe culture share strong epistemological relationships and common principles. These alignments can be found in worldview, ways of learning, traditional indigenous ecosystem engineering methods, and governance. This article explores how recognizing these alignments enables Anishinaabe cultural knowledge and ways of being to inform and provide the foundation for contemporary engineered design. It also proposes the use of a biocultural engineering design method that integrates the design principles of ecological engineering with indigenous knowledge, cultural relationships, values, and decision-making processes to support contemporary sustainable nation-building.
Poetry
Authors: Martine Dwayne
Published: July 2015

Poetry
Accomplishments of a Training Support Program for American Indian and Alaska Native Health Researchers
Authors: Zaback Tosha , Becker Thomas , Kennedy Jessica
Published: July 2015

The Native American Research Centers for Health program was designed to foster research training and skill development for American Indian/Alaska Native trainees. Increasing the number of American Indian/Alaska Native researchers with advanced training in science is one strategy to help decrease health disparities in native peoples. Our NARCH program provided financial support and mentorship for professional and academic development of American Indian/Alaska Native award recipients. We report on an assessment of our NARCH training program that is directed toward increasing the number of qualified American Indian/Alaska Native researchers.
Sky Woman
Authors: Wood Karenne
Published: July 2015

Poetry
Spatiotemporal variations in aphid‐parasitoid relative abundance patterns and food webs in agricultural ecosystems
Authors: Andrade Thiago Oliveira , Outreman Yannick , Krespi Liliane , Plantegenest Manuel , Vialatte Aude , Gauffre Bertrand , van Baaren Joan
Published: July 2015

Understanding the stability of communities is fundamental in theoretical and applied ecology. Organisms atop trophic chains are particularly sensitive to disturbance, especially when they are dependent on a specific trophic resource subject to strong fluctuations in density and quality, which is the case of parasitoids. We investigated the (1) variability in spatiotemporal relative abundance patterns of a cereal aphid parasitoid community, determining at what scales such patterns vary in agrosystems. We also investigated whether (2) parasitoid relative abundances are strongly influenced by host relative abundances and if (3) different host species are exploited at distinct rates. Aphid parasitoid populations were monitored in three remote agricultural regions in France between 2010 and 2012. Five parasitoid species (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Aphidiinae) and three aphid species (Hemiptera: Aphididae) were identified in each of those three regions. Fields sampled in one region in a single year exhibited similar relative abundance patterns, with aphid parasitoid communities varying across regions and years. All parasitoid species were able to exploit each monitored host species. Metopolophium dirhodum Wlk was consistently a more frequent species among parasitized aphids than among living aphids, indicating that this aphid species was exploited at a higher rate than the other two aphid species found (Sitobion avenae F and Rhopalosiphum padi L). Those findings suggest the cereal aphid‐parasitoid network is not strictly determined by the intrinsic permanent environmental characteristics but partially varies from one year to another. The similarity in abundance patterns in different fields of a region in a given year suggests the existence of a mechanism allowing a rapid synchronisation of the relative abundance patterns at an intra‐regional scale. This phenomenon could be useful in predicting host‐parasitoid communities and bear important consequences for the ecosystem service provided by parasitoids.
Managing Potassium and Phosphorus Soil Test Levels in a Rice–Soybean Rotation
Authors: Stevens William E. , Rhine Matthew D. , Heiser James W. , Dunn David
Published: July 2015

A long‐term rice–soybean (Oryza sativa L.–[Glycine max (L.) Merr.]) rotation was conducted at Glennonville, MO, to determine how quickly farmers need to increase soil test levels in low‐phosphorus (P) and ‐potassium (K) fertility fields. Plots received P and K fertilizer to increase soil Bray‐1 P and ammonium acetate–extractable K in 1‐, 4‐, or 8‐year buildup programs. In most years, soybean and rice yields from plots receiving P and K fertilizer treatments were significantly greater than yields from untreated controls. Two soil test P and K target levels were tested. The soil test target for rice using University of Missouri recommendations was 22% lower for P and 36% lower for K than the soybean target. No justification was found for recommending lower soil test P and K target levels for rice than soybean. Averaged across buildup programs, rice produced significantly greater yields using the soybean P and K soil targets than the rice P and K targets. Averaged over years, soybean and rice yields were not affected by the length of time in P and K buildup programs. Farmers can prolong buildup of soil test P and K over 4 to 8 years without yield losses.
Appraisal of Test Location and Variety Performance for the Selection of Tuber Yield in a Potato Breeding Program
Authors: Paget M. F. , Apiolaza L. A. , Anderson J. A. D. , Genet R. A. , Alspach P. A.
Published: July 2015

Differences in trait responses of genotypes across environments, or genotype × environment interactions (G × E), hinder the progress of genetic improvement. Characterization of these effects helps to determine breeding strategies and improve resource allocation in a cultivar development program. This study used historical multienvironment trial (MET) data (34 trials in five locations) for the analysis of marketable yield of advanced selections in a New Zealand potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) breeding program. A factor analytic (FA) model was used for the analysis of these MET data. Contrasts based on the environmental loadings were observed between the program's main trial locations in the North Island (Pukekohe) and the South Island (Lincoln), indicating that these locations optimized differentiation between genotypes in terms of G × E effects. Genetic correlation estimates between trial environments were mostly moderately high (>0.5) to high (>0.8) and ranged from zero to positive with a maximum coefficient of 0.97, suggesting that quantitative (rescaling) rather than qualitative (crossover) G × E effects were of greater importance. A number of newly developed varieties were shown to have higher genetic yield potential than older and established commercial cultivars but did not necessarily show better yield stability over the locations tested.
Characterizing a Miscanthus Germplasm Collection for Yield, Yield Components, and Genotype × Environment Interactions
Authors: Kaiser Christopher M. , Clark Lindsay V. , Juvik John A. , Voigt Thomas B. , Sacks Erik J.
Published: July 2015

Miscanthus is among the best biomass crops for temperate environments but current production is almost entirely associated with a single sterile clone of Miscanthus × giganteus J.M.Greef, Deuter ex Hodk., Renvoize. To create additional and improved cultivars, characterization of available germplasm is needed for biomass traits and genotype × environment (G × E) interactions. Additionally, there has been little guidance on how to best allocate experimental units in Miscanthus breeding trials. The purpose of this study was to quantify genetic diversity for biomass yield in a Miscanthus germplasm collection of 98 accessions that represent publicly available materials in North America, determine the predictive value of three putative yield component traits for estimating yield, and quantify the relative importance of G × E and error variances for estimating genotypic values. We observed large and significant differences among genotypes for all traits. Indirect selection for yield based on the tested yield‐component traits alone would be too inefficient to be advisable. Estimates of G × E interactions and repeatabilities indicated that selection efficiency would benefit more from increased sampling of locations rather than years and that effective selection of Miscanthus for yield could be accomplished in Year 2 rather than Year 3 for environments similar to central and southern Illinois. Minimizing the number of years per selection cycle will be critical for maximizing genetic gain per unit of time.
Variation among Cowpea Genotypes in Sensitivity of Transpiration Rate and Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation to Soil Drying
Authors: Sinclair Thomas R. , Manandhar Anju , Belko Nouhoun , Riar Mandeep , Vadez Vincent , Roberts Philip A.
Published: July 2015

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) is often considered a crop species appropriate for drier environments. However, little or no information exists on two key physiological traits for drought conditions: early decrease in transpiration rate in the soil drying cycle and sustained N fixation activity under low soil‐water conditions. In this study, the responses of these two traits to soil drying were compared among 10 genotypes. The fraction of transpirable soil water at which transpiration rate began to decline varied from 0.59 to 0.24. The genotypes with the higher thresholds for the transpiration decrease offer a conservative water use strategy during soil drying and, hence, may be especially appropriate for very dry areas. The fraction of transpirable soil water at which N fixation rate began to decline ranged from 0.33 in one line to another line in which there was no decline in N fixation rate. Five lines had especially low thresholds for the decline in N fixation rate, which would be highly desirable in arid areas. In fact, N fixation tolerance to drought in these five lines is superior to any responses observed in other grain legumes. There was no correlation between the thresholds for decline in transpiration and N fixation.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Soil Matric Potential in the Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory
Authors: Yu Haoliang , Yang Peiling , Lin Henry
Published: July 2015

Spatiotemporal patterns of soil moisture are important for understanding landscape hydrologic processes. While the spatiotemporal characteristics of soil moisture content (θ) have been frequently studied, those of soil matric potential (ψ) remain sparse. We investigated the spatial variability and temporal stability of ψ at multiple depths (10–100 cm) across a 7.9‐ha forested catchment and their relationships with soil type, terrain, and season. The results from a 5.5‐yr database consisting of 62 sites clearly showed a downward parabolic trend in ψ spatial variability with decreasing spatial mean ψ values (i.e., becoming drier) across all depths. The catchment's overall spatial variability of ψ generally increased with soil depth and was relatively high during summer and fall. Sand and silt contents were significant factors (p < 0.05) influencing ψ in surface layers (0–20 cm), while ψ values in the subsurface (40–100 cm) were highly correlated with elevation. The temporal stability of ψ spatial pattern was generally higher in the surface soil than the subsoil but weaker in the spring than in other seasons. Moreover, relatively dry areas tended to have less evident ψ temporal stability at each depth, attributable to a higher sensitivity of ψ to changes in θ when the soil is dry. Finally, at least one of the representative sites of the catchment mean ψ at each depth was found within a south‐facing concave hillslope at mid‐elevation, and these sites were different from the representative sites of the catchment mean θ. The results of this study have implications for upscaling soil water from point‐based observations to hillslope and catchment scales.
Neurobiology of psychiatric disorders
Authors: Djokic Gorica
Published: July 2015

Neurobiologically spoken, the supstrate of the mind is formed by neuronal
networks, and dysregulated neurocircuitry can cause psychiatric disorders.
Psychiatric disorders are diagnosed by symptom clusters that are the result
of abnormal brain tissue, and/or activity in specialized areas of the brain.
Dysregulated circuitry results from abnormal neural function, or abnormal
neural connections from one brain area to another, which leads to
neurotransmitter imbalances. Each psychiatric disorder has uniquely
dysregulated circuitry and thereby unique neurotransmitter imbalance, such
as: prefrontal cortical-limbic pathways in depression or prefrontal
cortical-striatal pathways in schizophrenia ie.
serotonin-norepinephrin-dopamin imbalance in depression, or dopamine
hyperactivity in schizophrenia. Biological psychiatry has completely changed
the farmacological treatment of psychiatric disorders, and new foundings in
that field are supportive to futher more neuropsychopharmacological and
nonpharmacological therapy studies, whish has as a result more safe and
effective therapy for psychiatric disorders.
Risk factors for the adolescent-onset psychosis, with special emphasis on the role of the family
Authors: Ristic-Dimitrijevic Radmila
Published: July 2015

Background: Adolescent-onset psychosis usually is the result of a long
process of gradual decompensation, with several risk factors: biological,
psychological and social factors. In adolescents who are burdened with the
genetic, neurobiological vulnerability to psychosis, family influence can
sometimes be pathological in terms of deviant communication that contributes
to development of psychosis. Aim of the study was to determine whether there
is a statistically significant relationship between adolescent-onset
psychosis, and specific conditions in which adolescents live, whether
psychosis is more common in young people living in families or in social care
institutions. The sample was composed of two comparative groups of patients -
a group of adolescents who live in families (N = 50), and a group of
adolescents who live in social care institutions (N = 50). All of them were
treated under the diagnoses of psychosis, severe depression and conduct
disorders. Methods: New questionnaire was made for the study, and it covers
the following information: gender, age, information on whether adolescent
lives in a family or in social care institution, data on suicidality,
information on psychoactive substance abuse, data on pharmacotherapy and
psychotherapy, as well as the diagnosis that is formed on the basis of the
auto-anamnesis and hetero-anamnesis, psychological and psychiatric
exploration, the results of clinical laboratory analysis. Diagnoses were made
according to the criteria of ICD-10. Results: Psychosis was significantly
more common in young people living in families (?2= 13.562, df=1, p=0.000).
There was no statistically significant relationship between gender of
subjects, and the onset of psychosis. Living conditions are not associated
with the development of depression. Depression is more common in girls (?2 =
4.927, df = 1, p = 0.026), while conduct disorder is more common in boys (?2
= 4.864, df = 1, p = 0.027). Conclusion: Inadequate communication within the
family, especially existence of ?double bind? messages and mutual emotional
distance, significantly, contributes to the development of psychosis in
adolescents, as opposed to communication in social care institutions, where
rules are clearly structured, communication with residents is organized
mainly as professional work, and based on the legal norms and standards.
Application of psychodrama in integration of self in adolescents
Authors: Veljkovic Jasna
Published: July 2015

Psychodrama as an action method of group psychotherapy is indicated in the
treatment of different mental and behavioral disorders. Evaluation studies
show very good results in the efficiency of psychodrama treatment, especially
in the work with the adolescent population, in crisis situation. Psychodrama,
as an action method of group psychotherapy, with its large repertoire of
techniques, enable adolescents to make better integration of self. In the
first part of this paper we aim to show the advantages of the basic
techniques of psychodrama in dealing with crisis situations in adolescence.
In the second part we will present and analyze casuistic vignette in the
field of psychodrama work with adolescents in crisis.
Energy Expenditure Responses to Fasting and Overfeeding Identify Phenotypes Associated With Weight Change
Authors: Schlögl Mathias , Piaggi Paolo , Pannacciuli Nicola , Bonfiglio Susan M. , Krakoff Jonathan , Thearle Marie S.
Published: July 2015

Because it is unknown whether 24-h energy expenditure (EE) responses to dietary extremes will identify phenotypes associated with weight regulation, the aim of this study was to determine whether such responses to fasting or overfeeding are associated with future weight change. The 24-h EE during energy balance, fasting, and four different overfeeding diets with 200% energy requirements was measured in a metabolic chamber in 37 subjects with normal glucose regulation while they resided on our clinical research unit. Diets were given for 24 h each and included the following: 1) low protein (3%), 2) standard (50% carbohydrate, 20% protein), 3) high fat (60%), and 4) high carbohydrate (75%). Participants returned for follow-up 6 months after the initial measures. The decrease in 24-h EE during fasting and the increase with overfeeding were correlated. A larger reduction in EE during fasting, a smaller EE response to low-protein overfeeding, and a larger response to high-carbohydrate overfeeding all correlated with weight gain. The association of the fasting EE response with weight change was not independent from that of low protein in a multivariate model. We identified the following two independent propensities associated with weight gain: a predilection for conserving energy during caloric and protein deprivation and a profligate response to large amounts of carbohydrates.
Prevalence and “Red Flags” Regarding Specified Causes of Back Pain in Older Adults Presenting in General Practice
Authors: Enthoven Wendy T.M. , Geuze Judith , Scheele Jantine , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M.A. , Bueving Herman J. , Bohnen Arthur M. , Peul Wilco C. , van Tulder Maurits W. , Berger Marjolein Y. , Koes Bart W. , Luijsterburg Pim A.J.
Published: July 2015

Background

In a small proportion of patients experiencing unspecified back pain, a specified underlying pathology is present.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to identify the prevalence of physician-specified causes of back pain and (2) to assess associations between “red flags” and vertebral fractures, as diagnosed by the patients' general practitioner (GP), in older adults with back pain.

Methods

The Back Complaints in the Elders (BACE) study is a prospective cohort study. Patients (aged >55 years) with back pain were included when consulting their GP. A questionnaire was administered and a physical examination and heel bone densitometry were performed, and the results determined back pain and patient characteristics, including red flags. Participants received a radiograph, and reports were sent to their GP. The final diagnoses established at 1 year were collected from the GP's patient registry.

Results

Of the 669 participants included, 6% were diagnosed with a serious underlying pathology during the 1-year follow-up. Most of these participants (n=33, 5%) were diagnosed with a vertebral fracture. Multivariable regression analysis showed that age of ≥75 years, trauma, osteoporosis, a back pain intensity score of ≥7, and thoracic pain were associated with a higher chance of getting the diagnosis of a vertebral fracture. Of these variables, trauma showed the highest positive predictive value for vertebral fracture of 0.25 (95% confidence interval=0.09, 0.41) and a positive likelihood ratio of 6.2 (95% confidence interval=2.8, 13.5). A diagnostic prediction model including the 5 red flags did not increase these values.

Limitations

Low prevalence of vertebral fractures could have led to findings by chance.

Conclusions

In these older adults with back pain presenting in general practice, 6% were diagnosed with serious pathology, mainly a vertebral fracture (5%). Four red flags were associated with the presence of vertebral fracture.
Degree of distal trigeminal nerve atrophy predicts outcome after microvascular decompression for Type 1a trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Duan Yifei , Sweet Jennifer , Munyon Charles , Miller Jonathan
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

Trigeminal neuralgia is often associated with nerve atrophy, in addition to vascular compression. The authors evaluated whether cross-sectional areas of different portions of the trigeminal nerve on preoperative imaging could be used to predict outcome after microvascular decompression (MVD).

METHODS

A total of 26 consecutive patients with unilateral Type 1a trigeminal neuralgia underwent high-resolution fast-field echo MRI of the cerebellopontine angle followed by MVD. Preoperative images were reconstructed and reviewed by 2 examiners blinded to the side of symptoms and clinical outcome. For each nerve, a computerized automatic segmentation algorithm was used to calculate the coronal cross-sectional area at the proximal nerve near the root entry zone and the distal nerve at the exit from the porus trigeminus. Findings were correlated with outcome at 12 months.

RESULTS

After MVD, 17 patients were pain free and not taking medications compared with 9 with residual pain. Across all cases, the coronal cross-sectional area of the symptomatic trigeminal nerve was significantly smaller than the asymptomatic side in the proximal part of the nerve, which was correlated with degree of compression at surgery. Atrophy of the distal trigeminal nerve was more pronounced in patients who had residual pain than in those with excellent outcome. Among the 7 patients who had greater than 20% loss of nerve volume in the distal nerve, only 2 were pain free and not taking medications at long-term follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Trigeminal neuralgia is associated with atrophy of the root entry zone of the affected nerve compared with the asymptomatic side, but volume loss in different segments of the nerve has very different prognostic implications. Proximal atrophy is associated with vascular compression and correlates with improved outcome following MVD. However, distal atrophy is associated with a significantly worse outcome after MVD.
In vitro and in vivo effect of human lactoferrin on glioblastoma growth
Authors: Arcella Antonietta , Oliva Maria Antonietta , Staffieri Sabrina , Aalberti Silvia , Grillea Giovanni , Madonna Michele , Bartolo Marcello , Pavone Luigi , Giangaspero Felice , Cantore Giampaolo , Frati Alessandro
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

Human lactoferrin (HLF) is a natural protein with antitumor activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of HLF alone and in combination with temozolomide (TMZ), a conventional chemotherapeutic, on human glioblastoma (GBM) cells.

METHODS

The authors cultured fresh human primary cell lines NMD and FN and the continuous cell line U87MG to evaluate proliferation in the presence of HLF alone at different doses (1, 10, and 100 mg/ml, and 1 mg/ml) and in combination with TMZ. In in vivo experiments they assessed tumor size reduction in CD1 nude mice carrying an orthotopic GBM xenograft and orally treated with HLF.

RESULTS

Lactoferrin causes growth inhibition in the NMD and FN primary cell lines and in the U87MG continuous cell line. This inhibition seemed to be modulated by the downregulation of cyclin D1 and D4. Western blot and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis showed inhibition of the cell cycle in G0/G1 and G2 phases. When administered in nude mice, HLF (60 mg/kg/day) decreased tumor size about 30%, as shown in both histological analyses and high-field brain MRI. Administration of HLF with TMZ enhanced the effect of chemotherapy both in vitro and in vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that HLF can inhibit GBM cell growth, suggesting that this nontoxic substance may have a role in potentiating the effect of current TMZ treatment of GBM.
Analysis of progression of cervical OPLL using computerized tomography: typical sign of maturation of OPLL mass
Authors: Choi Byung-Wan , Baek Dong-Hoon , Sheffler Lindsey C. , Chang Han
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

The progression of cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) can lead to increase in the size of the OPLL mass and aggravation of neurological symptoms. In the present study, the authors aimed to analyze the progression of cervical OPLL by using CT imaging, elucidate the morphology of OPLL masses, and evaluate the factors associated with the progression of cervical OPLL.

METHODS

Sixty patients with cervical OPLL were included. All underwent an initial CT examination and had at least 24 months’ follow-up with CT. The mean duration of follow-up was 29.6 months. Fourteen patients (Group A) had CT evidence of OPLL progression, and 46 (Group B) did not show evidence of progression on CT. The 2 groups were compared with respect to the following variables: sex, age, number of involved segments, type of OPLL, and treatment methods. The CT findings, such as the connection of an OPLL mass with the vertebral body and formation of trabeculation in the mass, were evaluated.

RESULTS

Sex and treatment modality were not associated with OPLL progression. The mean age of the patients in Group A was significantly lower than that in Group B (p = 0.03). The mean number of involved segments was 5.3 in Group A and 3.6 in Group B (p = 0.002). Group A had a higher proportion of cases with the mixed type of OPLL, whereas Group B had a higher proportion of cases with the segmental type (p = 0.02). A connection between the vertebral body and OPLL mass and trabeculation formation were more common in Group B (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Progression of cervical OPLL is associated with younger age, involvement of multiple levels, and mixed-type morphology. OPLL masses that are contiguous with the vertebral body and have trabecular formation are useful findings for identifying masses that are less likely to progress.
Minimally invasive resection and vertebroplasty for an osteolytic C-1 metastasis of malignant meningioma: case report
Authors: Klingler Jan-Helge , Krüger Marie Therese , Kogias Evangelos , Brendecke Stefanie M. , Hubbe Ulrich , Scheiwe Christian
Published: July 2015

Malignant meningiomas are a rare but aggressive subset of intracranial meningiomas leading to a very limited life expectancy. The occurrence of spinal metastases in these tumors is an even rarer event. The described patient had an intracranial malignant meningioma and developed a symptomatic osteolytic contrast-enhancing lesion in the left C-1 lateral mass suspicious for metastasis. The authors performed a minimally invasive posterior resection of the lesion with vertebroplasty of C-1. Histopathology verified metastasis of the malignant meningioma. The surgical procedure resulted in prompt and permanent pain reduction until the patient died 18 months later. Given the very limited life expectancy in this case, the authors did not consider occipitocervical fusion because of their desire to preserve the range of motion of the head. Therefore, they suggest minimally invasive tumor resection and vertebroplasty in selected palliative tumor patients.
Treatment of recurrent metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma of the spine: a multimodality approach using resection, radiosurgery, and chemotherapy
Authors: Strong Michael J. , Rosenlof Trevor , Padmanabha Siddhartha , Weiner Roy S. , Morgan Lee Roy , Ware Marcus I.
Published: July 2015

The authors describe the case of a patient who initially presented with uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) that later metastasized to the spine. The patient was treated at another institution for her primary uterine LMS, undergoing resection followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. After several years of disease remission, the patient presented in January 2011 to the authors’ institution with recurrent uterine LMS metastatic to the spine, which has been treated with multiple therapeutic modalities in a combination of surgery, radiosurgery, and chemotherapy. As a result of this approach, the patient has been progression free for 35 months since her presentation (April 2011 to March 2014). We herein describe our experience treating this patient with recurrent uterine LMS of the spine and suggest that patients with recurrent uterine LMSs should be considered for treatment using a multimodality approach with emphasis on enrollment into clinical trials.
Pediatric skull fracture diagnosis: should 3D CT reconstructions be added as routine imaging?
Authors: Orman Gunes , Wagner Matthias W. , Seeburg Daniel , Zamora Carlos A. , Oshmyansky Alexander , Tekes Aylin , Poretti Andrea , Jallo George I. , Huisman Thierry A. G. M. , Bosemani Thangamadhan
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

The authors compared the efficacy of combining 2D+3D CT reconstructions with standard 2D CT images in the diagnosis of linear skull fractures in children with head trauma.

METHODS

This was a retrospective evaluation of consecutive head CT studies of children presenting with head trauma. Two experienced pediatric neuroradiologists in consensus created the standard of reference. Three readers independently evaluated the 2D CT images alone and then in combination with the 3D reconstructions for the diagnosis of linear skull fractures. Sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of linear skull fractures utilizing 2D and 2D+3D CT in combination were measured for children less than 2 years of age and for all children for analysis by the 3 readers.

RESULTS

Included in the study were 250 consecutive CT studies of 250 patients (167 boys and 83 girls). The mean age of the children was 7.82 years (range 4 days to 17.4 years). 2D+3D CT combined had a higher sensitivity and specificity (83.9% and 97.1%, respectively) compared with 2D alone (78.2% and 92.8%, respectively) with statistical significance for specificity (p < 0.05) in children less than 2 years of age. 2D+3D CT combined had a higher sensitivity and specificity (81.3% and 90.5%, respectively) compared with 2D alone (74.5% and 89.1%, respectively) with statistical significance for sensitivity (p < 0.05) in all children.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, 2D+3D CT in combination showed increased sensitivity in the diagnosis of linear skull fractures in all children and increased specificity in children less than 2 years of age. In children less than 2 years of age, added confidence in the interpretation of fractures by distinguishing them from sutures may have a significant implication in the setting of nonaccidental trauma. Furthermore, 3D CT is available at no added cost, scan time, or radiation exposure, providing trainees and clinicians with limited experience an additional valuable tool for routine imaging of pediatric head trauma.
A Critical Review of Horse-Related Risk: A Research Agenda for Safer Mounts, Riders and Equestrian Cultures
Authors: Thompson Kirrilly , McGreevy Paul , McManus Phil
Published: July 2015

While the importance of improving horse-related safety seems self-evident, no comprehensive study into understanding or reducing horse-related risk has been undertaken. In this paper, we discuss four dimensions of horse-related risk: the risk itself, the horse, the rider and the culture in which equestrian activities takes place. We identify how the ways in which risk is constructed in each dimension affects the applicability of four basic risk management options of avoidance, transference, mitigation and acceptance. We find the acceptance and avoidance of horse-related risk is generally high, most likely due to a common construction of horses as irrevocably unpredictable, fearful and dangerous. The transference of risk management is also high, especially in the use of protective technologies such as helmets. Of concern, the strategy least utilised is risk mitigation. We highlight the potential benefit in developing mitigation strategies directed at: (a) improving the predictability of horses (to and by humans), and (b) improving riders’ competence in the physical skills that make them more resilient to injury and falls. We conclude with the presentation of a multidisciplinary agenda for research that could reduce accident, injury and death to horse-riders around the world.
The 3' to 5' Exoribonuclease DIS3: From Structure and Mechanisms to Biological Functions and Role in Human Disease
Authors: Robinson Sophie , Oliver Antony , Chevassut Timothy , Newbury Sarah
Published: July 2015

DIS3 is a conserved exoribonuclease and catalytic subunit of the exosome, a protein complex involved in the 3' to 5' degradation and processing of both nuclear and cytoplasmic RNA species. Recently, aberrant expression of DIS3 has been found to be implicated in a range of different cancers. Perhaps most striking is the finding that DIS3 is recurrently mutated in 11% of multiple myeloma patients. Much work has been done to elucidate the structural and biochemical characteristics of DIS3, including the mechanistic details of its role as an effector of RNA decay pathways. Nevertheless, we do not understand how DIS3 mutations can lead to cancer. There are a number of studies that pertain to the function of DIS3 at the organismal level. Mutant phenotypes in S. pombe, S. cerevisiae and Drosophila suggest DIS3 homologues have a common role in cell-cycle progression and microtubule assembly. DIS3 has also recently been implicated in antibody diversification of mouse B-cells. This article aims to review current knowledge of the structure, mechanisms and functions of DIS3 as well as highlighting the genetic patterns observed within myeloma patients, in order to yield insight into the putative role of DIS3 mutations in oncogenesis.
Not All Next Generation Sequencing Diagnostics are Created Equal: Understanding the Nuances of Solid Tumor Assay Design for Somatic Mutation Detection
Authors: Gray Phillip , Dunlop Charles , Elliott Aaron
Published: July 2015

The molecular characterization of tumors using next generation sequencing (NGS) is an emerging diagnostic tool that is quickly becoming an integral part of clinical decision making. Cancer genomic profiling involves significant challenges including DNA quality and quantity, tumor heterogeneity, and the need to detect a wide variety of complex genetic mutations. Most available comprehensive diagnostic tests rely on primer based amplification or probe based capture methods coupled with NGS to detect hotspot mutation sites or whole regions implicated in disease. These tumor panels utilize highly customized bioinformatics pipelines to perform the difficult task of accurately calling cancer relevant alterations such as single nucleotide variations, small indels or large genomic alterations from the NGS data. In this review, we will discuss the challenges of solid tumor assay design/analysis and report a case study that highlights the need to include complementary technologies (i.e., arrays) and germline analysis in tumor testing to reliably identify copy number alterations and actionable variants.
Chalcopyrite Thin Film Materials for Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Evolution from Water under Sunlight
Authors: Kaneko Hiroyuki , Minegishi Tsutomu , Domen Kazunari
Published: July 2015

Copper chalcopyrite is a promising candidate for a photocathode material for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting because of its high half-cell solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency (HC-STH), relatively simple and low-cost preparation process, and chemical stability. This paper reviews recent advances in copper chalcopyrite photocathodes. The PEC properties of copper chalcopyrite photocathodes have improved fairly rapidly: HC-STH values of 0.25% and 8.5% in 2012 and 2015, respectively. On the other hand, the onset potential remains insufficient, owing to the shallow valence band maximum mainly consisting of Cu 3d orbitals. In order to improve the onset potential, we explored substituting Cu for Ag and investigate the PEC properties of silver gallium selenide (AGSe) thin film photocathodes for varying compositions, film growth atmospheres, and surfaces. The modified AGSe photocathodes showed a higher onset potential than copper chalcopyrite photocathodes. It was demonstrated that element substitution of copper chalcopyrite can help to achieve more efficient PEC water splitting.
Reply to C. Tsallis’ “Conceptual Inadequacy of the Shore and Johnson Axioms for Wide Classes of Complex Systems”
Authors: Pressé Steve , Ghosh Kingshuk , Lee Julian , Dill Ken
Published: July 2015

In a recent PRL (2013, 111, 180604), we invoked the Shore and Johnson axioms which demonstrate that the least-biased way to infer probability distributions fpig from data is to maximize the Boltzmann-Gibbs entropy. We then showed which biases are introduced in models obtained by maximizing nonadditive entropies. A rebuttal of our work appears in entropy (2015, 17, 2853) and argues that the Shore and Johnson axioms are inapplicable to a wide class of complex systems. Here we highlight the errors in this reasoning.
Energy Performance Database of Building Heritage in the Region of Umbria, Central Italy
Authors: Buratti Cinzia , Asdrubali Francesco , Palladino Domenico , Rotili Antonella
Published: July 2015

Household energy consumption has been increasing in the last decades; the residential sector is responsible for about 40% of the total final energy use in Europe. Energy efficiency measures can both reduce energy needs of buildings and energy-related CO2 emissions. For this reason, in recent years, the European Union has been making efforts to enhance energy saving in buildings by introducing various policies and strategies; in this context, a common methodology was developed to assess and to certify energy performance of buildings. The positive effects obtained by energy efficiency measures need to be verified, but measuring and monitoring building energy performance is time consuming and financially demanding. Alternatively, energy efficiency can also be evaluated by specific indicators based on energy consumption. In this work, a methodology to investigate the level of energy efficiency reached in the Umbria Region (Central Italy) is described, based on data collected by energy certificates. In fact, energy certificates, which are the outcomes of simulation models, represent a useful and available tool to collect data related to the energy use of dwellings. A database of building energy performance was developed, in which about 6500 energy certificates of residential buildings supplied by Umbria region were inserted. On the basis of this data collection, average energy and CO2 indicators related to the building heritage in Umbria were estimated and compared to national and international indicators derived from official sources. Results showed that the adopted methodology in this work can be an alternative method for the evaluation of energy indicators; in fact, the ones calculated considering simulation data were similar to the ones reported in national and international sources. This allowed to validate the adopted methodology and the efficiency of European policies.
Applications of Infrared and Raman Spectroscopies to Probiotic Investigation
Authors: Santos Mauricio , Gerbino Esteban , Tymczyszyn Elizabeth , Gomez-Zavaglia Andrea
Published: July 2015

In this review, we overview the most important contributions of vibrational spectroscopy based techniques in the study of probiotics and lactic acid bacteria. First, we briefly introduce the fundamentals of these techniques, together with the main multivariate analytical tools used for spectral interpretation. Then, four main groups of applications are reported: (a) bacterial taxonomy (Subsection 4.1); (b) bacterial preservation (Subsection 4.2); (c) monitoring processes involving lactic acid bacteria and probiotics (Subsection 4.3); (d) imaging-based applications (Subsection 4.4). A final conclusion, underlying the potentialities of these techniques, is presented.
Adaptive Evolution of CENP-A in Percid Fishes
Authors: Abbey Harriet , Kral Leos
Published: July 2015

Centromeric protein A (CENP-A) is the epigenetic determinant of centromeres. This protein has been shown to be adaptively evolving in a number of animal and plant species. In a previous communication we were able to demonstrate that signs of adaptive evolution were detected in the comparison of CENP-A sequences from three percid fish species. In this study we isolated the CENP-A gene from eight additional species from the Percidae family. With these sequences and those previously obtained, we carried out a more robust statistical analysis of codon specific positive selection in CENP-A coding sequences of eleven percid species. We were able to demonstrate that at least two amino acid positions within the N-terminal tail are under strong positive selection and that one of these positions is potentially a substrate for phosphorylation. While nonsynonymous substitutions were detected in the histone fold domain, these were not statistically supported as resulting from positive selection.
Improving Outcomes by Implementing a Pressure Ulcer Prevention Program (PUPP): Going beyond the Basics
Authors: Cano Amparo , Anglade Debbie , Stamp Hope , Joaquin Fortunata , Lopez Jennifer , Lupe Lori , Schmidt Steven , Young Daniel
Published: July 2015

A multidisciplinary process improvement program was initiated at the University of Miami Hospital (UMH) in 2009 to identify the prevalence of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPU) at the institution and to implement interventions to reduce the incidence of HAPU. This deliberate and thoughtful committee-driven process evaluated care, monitored results, and designed evidence-based strategic initiatives to manage and reduce the rate of HAPU. As a result all inpatient beds were replaced with support surfaces, updated care delivery protocols were created, and monitored, turning schedules were addressed, and a wound, ostomy, and continence (WOC) nurse and support staff were hired. These initial interventions resulted in a decrease in the prevalence of HAPU at UMH from 11.7% of stage II to IV ulcers in the second quarter, 2009 to 2.1% the third quarter. The rate remained at or near the 2009 UMH benchmark of 3.1% until the first quarter of 2012 when the rate rose to 4.1%. At that time new skin products were introduced into practice and continuing re-education was provided. The rate of HAPU dropped to 2.76% by the second quarter of 2012 and has remained steadily low at 1%–2% for nine consecutive quarters.
Assessing the Variability of Heavy Metal Concentrations in Liquid-Solid Two-Phase and Related Environmental Risks in the Weihe River of Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: Song Jinxi , Yang Xiaogang , Zhang Junlong , Long Yongqing , Zhang Yan , Zhang Taifan
Published: July 2015

Accurate estimation of the variability of heavy metals in river water and the hyporheic zone is crucial for pollution control and environmental management. The biotoxicities and potential ecological risks of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd) in a solid-liquid two-phase system were estimated using the Geo-accumulation Index, Potential Ecological Risk Assessment and Quality Standard Index methods in the Weihe River of Shaanxi Province, China. Water and sediment samples were collected from five study sites during spring, summer and winter, 2013. The dominant species in the streambed sediments were chironomids and flutter earthworm, whose bioturbation mainly ranged from 0 to 20 cm. The concentrations of heavy metals in surface water and pore water varied obviously in spring and summer. The degrees of concentration of Cu and Cd in spring and summer were higher than the U.S. water quality Criteria Maximum Concentrations. Furthermore, the biotoxicities of Pb and Zn demonstrated season-spatial variations. The concentrations of Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd in spring and winter were significantly higher than those in summer, and the pollution levels also varied obviously in different layers of the sediments. Moreover, the pollution level of Cd was the most serious, as estimated by all three assessment methods.
Deep Sequencing Analysis of miRNA Expression in Breast Muscle of Fast-Growing and Slow-Growing Broilers
Authors: Ouyang Hongjia , He Xiaomei , Li Guihuan , Xu Haiping , Jia Xinzheng , Nie Qinghua , Zhang Xiquan
Published: July 2015

Growth performance is an important economic trait in chicken. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to play important roles in various biological processes, but their functions in chicken growth are not yet clear. To investigate the function of miRNAs in chicken growth, breast muscle tissues of the two-tail samples (highest and lowest body weight) from Recessive White Rock (WRR) and Xinghua Chickens (XH) were performed on high throughput small RNA deep sequencing. In this study, a total of 921 miRNAs were identified, including 733 known mature miRNAs and 188 novel miRNAs. There were 200, 279, 257 and 297 differentially expressed miRNAs in the comparisons of WRRh vs. WRRl, WRRh vs. XHh, WRRl vs. XHl, and XHh vs. XHl group, respectively. A total of 22 highly differentially expressed miRNAs (fold change > 2 or < 0.5; p-value < 0.05; q-value < 0.01), which also have abundant expression (read counts > 1000) were found in our comparisons. As far as two analyses (WRRh vs. WRRl, and XHh vs. XHl) are concerned, we found 80 common differentially expressed miRNAs, while 110 miRNAs were found in WRRh vs. XHh and WRRl vs. XHl. Furthermore, 26 common miRNAs were identified among all four comparisons. Four differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-223, miR-16, miR-205a and miR-222b-5p) were validated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Regulatory networks of interactions among miRNAs and their targets were constructed using integrative miRNA target-prediction and network-analysis. Growth hormone receptor (GHR) was confirmed as a target of miR-146b-3p by dual-luciferase assay and qPCR, indicating that miR-34c, miR-223, miR-146b-3p, miR-21 and miR-205a are key growth-related target genes in the network. These miRNAs are proposed as candidate miRNAs for future studies concerning miRNA-target function on regulation of chicken growth.