bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel probability-based diagnostic imaging with weight compensation for damage localization using guided waves
Authors: Liu Kehai , Ma Shuyi , Wu Zhanjun , Zheng Yuebin , Qu Xiaoxi , Wang Yishou , Wu Wenhua
Published: February 2016

To avoid direct interpretation of the complicated ultrasonic guided wave signal and the effect of dispersion, probability-based diagnostic imaging is proposed to identify damages for guided wave–based structural health monitoring. However, the probability-based diagnostic imaging algorithm usually requires a relatively large number of actuator–sensor paths to cover the monitoring area. Therefore, a weight-compensated probability-based diagnostic imaging approach is developed to improve the ability of damage localization with higher precision under the same sensor configuration. The weight-compensated probability-based diagnostic imaging algorithm compensates for the weight difference from sensing paths with the unit weight of various positions, inhibited by the path weight difference effect on diagnostic image. The validity of the approach is assessed by identifying damages at different locations with different groups of sensing paths on a stiffened composite panel. Accurate localization results have demonstrated the effectiveness of the developed probability-based diagnostic imaging approach.
Traditional Male Circumcision: Ways to Prevent Deaths Due to Dehydration
Authors: Douglas Mbuyiselo , Maluleke Thelmah Xavela
Published: February 2016

Deaths of initiates occurring in the circumcision initiation schools are preventable. Current studies list dehydration as one of the underlying causes of deaths among traditional male circumcision initiates in the Eastern Cape, a province in South Africa, but ways to prevent dehydration in the initiation schools have not been adequately explored. The goals of this study were to (a) explore the underlying determinants of dehydration among initiates aged from 12 to 18 years in the traditional male circumcision initiation schools and (b) determine knowledge of participants on the actions to be taken to prevent dehydration. The study was conducted at Libode, a rural area falling under Nyandeni municipality. A simple random sampling was used to select three focus group discussions with 36 circumcised boys. A purposive sampling was used to select 10 key informants who were matured and experienced people with knowledge of traditional practices and responsible positions in the communities. The research findings indicate that the practice has been neglected to inexperienced, unskillful, and abusive traditional attendants. The overall themes collated included traditional reasons for water restriction, imbalanced food nutrients given to initiates, poor environmental conditions in the initiation hut, and actions that should be taken to prevent dehydration. This article concludes with discussion and recommendation of ways to prevent dehydration of initiates in the form of a comprehensive circumcision health promotion program.
The relationships among depression, self-care agency, self-efficacy and diabetes self-care management
Authors: Gharaibeh Besher , Gajewski Byron J , Al-smadi Ahmed , Boyle Diane K
Published: February 2016

At the time the study was conducted, Besher Gharaibeh, Byron Gajewski, and Diane Boyle were affiliated with School of Nursing University of Kansas, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Ahmed Al-smadi was affiliated with University of Ulster, Belfast, Newtownabbey Co. Antrim BT37 0QB, Jordandtown road, UK. The coexistence of diabetes and depression is associated with negative outcomes such as poor diabetes self-care management (DSCM). Complex relationships exist among diabetes knowledge, self-efficacy, self-care agency, depression and DSCM. No study has examined the relationships among all these factors at the same time. We aimed to examine relationships among depression, diabetes knowledge, self-care agency, self-efficacy and DSCM in insulin- treated people based on a modification of the DSCM model. A cross-sectional, correlational model testing design was used. Participants with type 1 ( n = 35) and type 2 ( n = 43) diabetes were recruited from both outpatient and community sites. Participants mean age was 46.6 years (standard deviation 13.7) and the majority were men (56.4%). Multiple regression analyses tested the hypothesised relationships. Depression was found to have a direct negative relationship with self-care agency and self-efficacy. The relationship between depression and DSCM was not direct. Self-care agency and self-efficacy completely mediated the effect of depression on DSCM. Self-efficacy completely mediated the effect of self-care agency on DSCM. We conclude that effective treatment programmes for persons managed with insulin should probably include not only screening and treatment of depression, but also skills training to enhance patient self-care agency and self-efficacy alongside DSCM.
New perspectives on management of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Puglisi Silvia , Torrisi Sebastiano Emanuele , Vindigni Virginia , Giuliano Riccardo , Palmucci Stefano , Mulè Massimiliano , Vancheri Carlo
Published: February 2016

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive parenchymal lung disease characterized by a median survival of 3–5 years following diagnosis. The diagnosis is based on clinical, radiological and histopathological evaluation. Therefore, a multidisciplinary team is needed to reach the correct diagnosis. For a long time, supportive care and lung transplantation in selected cases, have been considered the only possible treatments for IPF. In the last decade many studies have investigated IPF pathogenesis, leading to an improved knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the disease and to the approval of two new drugs for IPF treatment (pirfenidone and nintedanib). The therapeutic approach of IPF cannot be limited to the administration of antifibrotic drugs, but it is necessary for improving the quality of life of patients and for facilitating, as far as possible, the performance of normal daily activities and relationships. IPF patients are also afflicted by disease-related complications such as gastroesophageal reflux, pulmonary hypertension, acute exacerbations and an increased risk of developing lung cancer. The clinician who treats IPF patients, should also treat these possible complications to slow disease progression, thus maintaining the possibility of a pulmonary transplantation.
Can We Talk? The Underdeveloped Dialogue Between Teacher Education and Disability Studies
Authors: Cosier Meghan , Pearson Holly
Published: February 2016

Despite the possibility for mutual benefit, it seems that the fields of Disability Studies (DS) and teacher education have not communicated and collaborated in deep and meaningful ways. This exploratory study utilized an e-survey of 32 teacher education faculty members in the state of California to investigate how, if at all, teacher educators were utilizing DS in their curriculum. Results suggested that some teacher educators confuse DS with special education or rehabilitation. Furthermore, many teacher educators in general education teacher preparation programs indicated that disability issues were only covered in one course. The results of this study suggest the need for further meaningful collaboration and communication between the fields of DS and teacher education.
Family Functioning, Psychological Distress, and Well-Being in Parents with a Child Having ADHD
Authors: Moen Øyfrid Larsen , Hedelin Birgitta , Hall-Lord Marie Louise
Published: February 2016

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common behavioral disorders in children. Children with ADHD have difficulties regarding the regulation of their emotions and activities and of the maintenance of attention and impulse control. Families with children with ADHD encounter many challenges, and the public health nurse is highlighted as helping and supporting these families. The aim of this study was to investigate families with a child having ADHD from the parents’ perspective. A cross-sectional study was performed. In total, N = 264 parents of children with ADHD, 217 mothers and 47 fathers (48.2%), responded on a questionnaire regarding psychological distress, family sense of coherence, and family functioning. Parents with ADHD and parents with children not medicated for ADHD seemed most vulnerable. Parents’ well-being and psychological distress seem to influence family functioning the most, with the behavior of the child with ADHD and support from the community health services had importance.
Risk Stratification for Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury in Major League Baseball Players
Authors: DeFroda Steven F. , Kriz Peter K. , Hall Amber M. , Zurakowski David , Fadale Paul D.
Published: February 2016

Background:

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injury has become increasingly common in Major League Baseball (MLB) players in recent years.

Hypothesis:

There is a significant difference in preinjury fastball velocity between MLB pitchers with tears and matched controls without UCL injury. Pitchers with injuries are throwing harder and getting injured earlier in their MLB careers.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

From 2007 to 2014, a total of 170 documented UCL injuries (156 pitchers, 14 position players) occurred in MLB. Inclusion criteria for this study consisted of any player who tore his UCL in MLB during this time frame. There were 130 regular-season tears (April-September). From this group, 118 players who pitched more than 100 innings prior to tear were matched to subjects with no tear and were compared using a logistic regression analysis. A subgroup of “early tear” players who threw less than 100 career innings (n = 37) was also identified and compared with the larger tear group using a logistic regression analysis.

Results:

Of the 130 tears that occurred during the regular season, a significantly larger number (62%) occurred in the first 3 months ( P = .011). The rate of UCL tears per MLB player ( P = .001) was statistically significant. In the group of 118 matched tears, the mean fastball velocity was greater in the tear group (91.7 mph) compared with the control group (91.0 mph; P = .014). Furthermore, relief pitchers made up a greater percentage of the early tear group (<100 innings) compared with the later tear group ( P = .011). Sixteen of the 170 UCL tears (9.4%) were recurrent tears, with 5 of 16 experiencing both tear and retear within the past 4 years.

Conclusion:

There is a statistically significant difference in the mean fastball velocity of pitchers who injure their UCL. Small increases in pitcher fastball velocity are a main contribution to the increased rate of tear in MLB. In addition, there has been an increased incidence of injury in the first 3 months of the season. Finally, early tears are more likely to occur in relief pitchers than starters.
The Just-Meaningful Difference in Speech-to-Noise Ratio
Authors: McShefferty David , Whitmer William M. , Akeroyd Michael A.
Published: February 2016

The speech-to-noise ratio (SNR) in an environment plays a vital role in speech communication for both normal-hearing (NH) and hearing-impaired (HI) listeners. While hearing-assistance devices attempt to deliver as favorable an SNR as possible, there may be discrepancies between noticeable and meaningful improvements in SNR. Furthermore, it is not clear how much of an SNR improvement is necessary to induce intervention-seeking behavior. Here, we report on a series of experiments examining the just-meaningful difference (JMD) in SNR. All experiments used sentences in same-spectrum noise, with two intervals on each trial mimicking examples of pre- and post-benefit situations. Different groups of NH and HI adults were asked (a) to rate how much better or worse the change in SNR was in a number of paired examples, (b) if they would swap the worse for the better SNR (e.g., their current device for another), or (c) if they would be willing to go to the clinic for the given increase in SNR. The mean SNR JMD based on better or worse ratings (one arbitrary unit) was similar to the just-noticeable difference, approximately 3 dB. However, the mean SNR JMD for the more clinically relevant tasks—willingness (at least 50% of the time) to swap devices or attend the clinic for a change in SNR—was 6 to 8 dB regardless of hearing ability. This SNR JMD of the order of 6 dB provides a new benchmark, indicating the SNR improvement necessary to immediately motivate participants to seek intervention.
The role of autologous stem cell transplantation in primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Ferreri Andrés J. M. , Illerhaus Gerald
Published: February 2016

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) treatment includes 2 phases: induction and consolidation. Induction consists of high-dose methotrexate–based polychemotherapy for most patients, with regimen and dose variations according to patient characteristics and country. Several strategies have been proposed for the consolidation phase, with whole-brain irradiation (WBRT) the most common. However, some authorities recommend avoiding WBRT because of its related risk of severe neurotoxicity. The most relevant alternatives to WBRT are high-dose chemotherapy supported by autologous stem cell transplantation (HDC/ASCT) or nonmyeloablative chemotherapy, the former supported by several single-arm phase 2 trials. Moreover, HDC/ASCT is the only strategy that is assessed in comparison with WBRT in ongoing randomized trials. The rationale for using HDC/ASCT in PCNSL patients is based on the fact that the delivery of high doses could achieve therapeutic drug concentrations in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid, and that non–cross-resistant drugs used for conditioning (eg, alkylating agents) could favor elimination of residual chemoresistant lymphoma cells. Worldwide experience with HDC/ASCT is limited to few single-arm phase 2 trials, but overall results are encouraging, mostly when thiotepa-containing conditioning regimens are used, both in newly diagnosed and relapsed patients. However, several questions on efficacy and feasibility of HDC/ASCT, as well as the best candidates for this strategy, the optimal conditioning regimen, the best time for response assessment, and acute and late effects, remain unanswered. In this review, we critically analyze reported studies on HDC/ASCT in PCNSL and discuss its current role and future perspectives in treating this aggressive malignancy.
President's Page
Authors: Zhu Xianhuai
Published: February 2016

Immediately after the 85th SEG Annual Meeting in New Orleans in October 2015, two SEG groups almost simultaneously started discussing the SEG abstracts and presentations and, more specifically, how to accept more papers without compromising quality. These two groups are the SEG Board of Directors and the SEG Research Committee. As a member of the Board, a member of the Research Committee, and having served in the SEG Technical Program Committee for many years, I would like to take this opportunity to share certain thoughts on this subject.
Enriched seismic imaging by using multiple scattering
Authors: Berkhout A. J. (Guus) , Verschuur D. J. (Eric)
Published: February 2016

The migration of full wavefields (primaries + multiples) by using the concept of secondary sources at each subsurface grid point is summarized. These secondary sources are two way and contain the grid-point reflection as well as the grid-point transmission properties. They “assist” the primary sources in illumination of the subsurface. Full-wavefield migration is implemented as a closed-loop process in which the estimated reflectivity properties are used to generate all higher-order scattering (multiples and transmission effects), such that the modeled full-wavefield response matches the observed measurements. In addition, velocities can be updated simultaneously. Theoretical considerations and examples lead to the principal conclusion that multiples should be used, not removed.
Basin-scale integrated earth-model building using rock-physics constraints
Authors: Liu Yangjun (Kevin) , Dutta Nader Chand , Vigh Denes , Kapoor Jerry , Hunter Cara , Saragoussi Emmanuel , Jones Laura , Yang Sherman , Eissa Mohamed Abdelmonem
Published: February 2016

Earth modeling plays a decisive role in seismic imaging. Presently, methods such as tomography and full-waveform inversion (FWI) are widely used to generate 3D high-resolution velocity models across sedimentary basins. However, given the nonunique nature of the solution, the relative fidelity of these velocity models remains low. Moreover, earth-model building must incorporate a dual strategy. In particular, it must derive a velocity model for migration and yield a series of rock properties such as density, temperature, effective stress, and pore pressure. These large-scale, basin-sized rock properties are used for drilling purposes and as an initial model for small-scale reservoir property inversion. Hence, one must inquire: How can we improve an earth model built at basin-scale using seismic data? Traditional workflows will simply convert seismic-derived velocity into rock properties, thereby propagating the uncertainty without addressing the issue. To alleviate this problem and fully exploit the potential of seismic data, an alternate workflow will be discussed. The new workflow involves using rock physics to link rock properties with velocity, and the physical range of the rock properties is used to constrain velocity when derived from surface seismic data; this way we reinforce the reliability of the final earth model. The application of this new workflow is demonstrated using Gulf of Mexico examples.
Practical considerations and quality control for an FWI workflow
Authors: Basker Bob , Rüger Andreas , Deng Lydia , Jaramillo Herman
Published: February 2016

Prestack processing skills are essential in full-waveform inversion (FWI). In practical applications, without careful guidance and continuous monitoring of intermediate data and model updates, the output of the inversion process can diverge and produce nongeologic output models and inversion artifacts. A synthetic case study demonstrates challenges in real-life FWI projects. The FWI workflow is described in terms used by seismic processors. Detailed understanding of the input data set and the selection of starting models, combined with creative analysis tools and quality-control workflows, are paramount for a successful inversion project.
Least-squares migration — Data domain versus image domain using point spread functions
Authors: Fletcher Robin P. , Nichols Dave , Bloor Robert , Coates Richard T.
Published: February 2016

Conventional amplitude inversion assumes that the migrated image preserves relative-amplitude information. However, illumination effects caused by complex geologic settings, undersampled acquisition geometry, and limited recording aperture pose a challenge to even the most advanced imaging algorithms. In addition, standard depth-migration images can suffer from lack of resolution caused by wavelet stretch, attenuation, and suboptimal deghosting. Least-squares migration (LSM) can mitigate many of these problems and produce better resolved migration images suitable for AVO inversion. However, whether formulated in the data domain or the image domain, LSM is an inversion algorithm and is sensitive to inaccuracies in the source wavelet, velocity model, data preprocessing, and the propagator used. Practical considerations to mitigate these problems under nonideal conditions and cost-reduction strategies differ between the data- and image-domain formulations. The relative merits of each approach are evaluated by using example inversions for complex synthetic models, including free-surface ghost and attenuation effects. When a data-domain implementation of LSM is considered necessary, the image-domain implementation should be considered at the same time, especially when targeting localized reservoir targets under complex overburdens. Application of image-domain least-squares migration on a Gulf of Mexico field data set produces significant improvements in resolution and event continuity in the subsalt target region.
IPTC Doha — A successful event despite challenging times
Authors: Doyen Philippe
Published: February 2016

The ninth edition of the International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC) took place 6–9 December 2015 in the Qatar National Convention Centre in Doha. This was the fourth time that Qatar Petroleum (QP) has hosted the event since the IPTC's inception in the same city back in 2005, with Shell acting as cohost for this year's event. Despite the current downturn in the oil markets, the conference and exhibition attracted 3,800 industry professionals, representing 630 companies from 63 countries.
State of the Net
Authors: Swiney Mick
Published: February 2016

Poorly designed Web sites share an alarming tendency: they create the impression that any failure to find desired content quickly and easily is the fault of the user. When you stare at the screen, frustrated, with no signposts to guide you, it's as if the Web site is saying “You must be stupid if you can't figure it out.”
Randomized Trial of Hepatic Artery Embolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Doxorubicin-Eluting Microspheres Compared With Embolization With Microspheres Alone
Authors: Brown Karen T. , Do Richard K. , Gonen Mithat , Covey Anne M. , Getrajdman George I. , Sofocleous Constantinos T. , Jarnagin William R. , D’Angelica Michael I. , Allen Peter J. , Erinjeri Joseph P. , Brody Lynn A. , O’Neill Gerald P. , Johnson Kristian N. , Garcia Alessandra R. , Beattie Christopher , Zhao Binsheng , Solomon Stephen B. , Schwartz Lawrence H. , DeMatteo Ronald , Abou-Alfa Ghassan K.
Published: February 2016

Purpose

Transarterial chemoembolization is accepted therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). No randomized trial has demonstrated superiority of chemoembolization compared with embolization, and the role of chemotherapy remains unclear. This randomized trial compares the outcome of embolization using microspheres alone with chemoembolization using doxorubicin-eluting microspheres.

Materials and Methods

At a single tertiary referral center, patients with HCC were randomly assigned to embolization with microspheres alone (Bead Block [BB]) or loaded with doxorubicin 150 mg (LC Bead [LCB]). Random assignment was stratified by number of embolizations to complete treatment, and assignments were generated by permuted blocks in the institutional database. The primary end point was response according to RECIST 1.0 (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors) using multiphase computed tomography 2 to 3 weeks post-treatment and then at quarterly intervals, with the reviewer blinded to treatment allocation. Secondary objectives included safety and tolerability, time to progression, progression-free survival, and overall survival. This trial is currently closed to accrual.

Results

Between December 2007 and April 2012, 101 patients were randomly assigned: 51 to BB and 50 to LCB. Demographics were comparable: median age, 67 years; 77% male; and 22% Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage A and 78% stage B or C. Adverse events occurred with similar frequency in both groups: BB, 19 of 51 patients (38%); LCB, 20 of 50 patients (40%; P = .48), with no difference in RECIST response: BB, 5.9% versus LCB, 6.0% (difference, −0.1%; 95% CI, −9% to 9%). Median PFS was 6.2 versus 2.8 months (hazard ratio, 1.36; 95% CI, 0.91 to 2.05; P = .11), and overall survival, 19.6 versus 20.8 months (hazard ratio, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.71 to 1.76; P = .64) for BB and LCB, respectively.

Conclusion

There was no apparent difference between the treatment arms. These results challenge the use of doxorubicin-eluting beads for chemoembolization of HCC.
Patient Prognostic Score and Associations With Survival Improvement Offered by Radiotherapy After Breast-Conserving Surgery for Ductal Carcinoma In Situ: A Population-Based Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Sagara Yasuaki , Freedman Rachel A. , Vaz-Luis Ines , Mallory Melissa Anne , Wong Stephanie M. , Aydogan Fatih , DeSantis Stephen , Barry William T. , Golshan Mehra
Published: February 2016

Purpose

Radiotherapy (RT) after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) is a standard treatment option for the management of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). We sought to determine the survival benefit of RT after BCS on the basis of risk factors for local recurrence.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective longitudinal cohort study was performed to identify patients with DCIS diagnosed between 1988 and 2007 and treated with BCS by using SEER data. Patients were divided into the following two groups: BCS+RT (RT group) and BCS alone (non-RT group). We used a patient prognostic scoring model to stratify patients on the basis of risk of local recurrence. We performed a Cox proportional hazards model with propensity score weighting to evaluate breast cancer mortality between the two groups.

Results

We identified 32,144 eligible patients with DCIS, 20,329 (63%) in the RT group and 11,815 (37%) in the non-RT group. Overall, 304 breast cancer–specific deaths occurred over a median follow-up of 96 months, with a cumulative incidence of breast cancer mortality at 10 years in the weighted cohorts of 1.8% (RT group) and 2.1% (non-RT group; hazard ratio, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.88). Significant improvements in survival in the RT group compared with the non-RT group were only observed in patients with higher nuclear grade, younger age, and larger tumor size. The magnitude of the survival difference with RT was significantly correlated with prognostic score (P < .001).

Conclusion

In this population-based study, the patient prognostic score for DCIS is associated with the magnitude of improvement in survival offered by RT after BCS, suggesting that decisions for RT could be tailored on the basis of patient factors, tumor biology, and the prognostic score.
Cervical Length and Androgens in Pregnant Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Has Metformin Any Effect?
Authors: Shetelig Løvvik Tone , Stridsklev Solhild , Carlsen Sven M. , Salvesen Øyvind , Vanky Eszter
Published: February 2016

Context:

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have increased risk of preterm delivery. Shortening of the cervix is a sign of preterm delivery.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate potential effect of metformin on cervical length and whether androgen levels correlate with cervical length in PCOS pregnancies.

Design and Setting:

This was a sub-study of a randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter study (The PregMet study) performed at 11 secondary or tertiary centers from 2005 to 2009.

Participants:

Two-hundred sixty-one pregnancies of 245 women with PCOS, age 18–42 years participated.

Interventions:

Participants were randomly assigned to metformin or placebo from first trimester to delivery.

Outcome Measurements:

We compared cervical length and androgen levels in metformin and placebo groups at gestational weeks 19 and 32. We also explored whether cervical length correlated with androgen levels.

Results:

We found no difference in cervical length between the metformin and the placebo groups at gestational week 19 and 32. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEAS) tended to be higher in the metformin group. There were no correlations between androgens and cervical length at week 19. At gestational week 32, androstenedione (P = .02) and DHEAS (P = .03) showed a trend toward negative correlation to cervical length. High androstenedione level correlated with shortening of cervical length from week 19 to 32 when adjusted for confounders (P = .003). T (P = .03), DHEAS (P = .02), and free testosterone index (P = .03) showed a similar trend.

Conclusion:

Metformin in pregnancy did not affect cervical length in women with PCOS. High maternal androgen levels correlated with cervical shortening from the second to the third trimester of pregnancy, as a sign of cervical ripening.
WNT/β-catenin signaling mediates human neural crest induction via a pre-neural border intermediate
Authors: Leung Alan W. , Murdoch Barbara , Salem Ahmed F. , Prasad Maneeshi S. , Gomez Gustavo A. , García-Castro Martín I.
Published: February 2016

Neural crest (NC) cells arise early in vertebrate development, migrate extensively and contribute to a diverse array of ectodermal and mesenchymal derivatives. Previous models of NC formation suggested derivation from neuralized ectoderm, via meso-ectodermal, or neural-non-neural ectoderm interactions. Recent studies using bird and amphibian embryos suggest an earlier origin of NC, independent of neural and mesodermal tissues. Here, we set out to generate a model in which to decipher signaling and tissue interactions involved in human NC induction. Our novel human embryonic stem cell (ESC)-based model yields high proportions of multipotent NC cells (expressing SOX10, PAX7 and TFAP2A) in 5 days. We demonstrate a crucial role for WNT/β-catenin signaling in launching NC development, while blocking placodal and surface ectoderm fates. We provide evidence of the delicate temporal effects of BMP and FGF signaling, and find that NC development is separable from neural and/or mesodermal contributions. We further substantiate the notion of a neural-independent origin of NC through PAX6 expression and knockdown studies. Finally, we identify a novel pre-neural border state characterized by early WNT/β-catenin signaling targets that displays distinct responses to BMP and FGF signaling from the traditional neural border genes. In summary, our work provides a fast and efficient protocol for human NC differentiation under signaling constraints similar to those identified in vivo in model organisms, and strengthens a framework for neural crest ontogeny that is separable from neural and mesodermal fates.
Disease Models & Mechanisms in 2016: a publisher's brief perspective
Authors: Hackett Rachel
Published: February 2016

Summary: DMM announces changes to its Senior Editor team and thanks its many reviewers.
LYR study: Influence of a web-based application on the systematic chronological and effectiveness of network-guided patient management processes in lymphological care
Authors: Berger J. , Rahms V. , Uhlemann H. , Waldvogel-Röcker K. , Hahn S.
Published: February 2016

The systematic acquisition of data for proving the benefit of standard treatment, demonstrating the efficiency of treatment provided by interprofessional patient management processes and providing valid epidemiological data is inadequate or even nonexistent in the treatment of lymphological disorders. The LYR study firstly uses a webbased documentation tool to examine whether treatment quality is ensured under the conditions provided by an outpatient lymph network that has been guaranteed by a systematic and guideline-compliant treatment analogy. The study evaluated the introduction and handling of a web-based documentation platform for joint case management. LYR also stands synonymously for Lymph Register, and represents a feasibility study with regard to establishing a national lymph register. A phase 1 multicentre interventional study of complex physical decongestion therapy on 61 subjects with different lymphological disorders investigated the immediate and late effects of a prespecified treatment analogy and web-based data acquisition with interdisciplinary data access in six regional lymph networks. Findings on the changes to quality of life and on the effect of the frequency of manual lymphatic drainage and the height of lymphological compression bandages on the results of decongestion were documented and data on prescribing periods and the behaviour of cost bearers were acquired. The study results show that a web-based, structured documentation system can usefully support treatment regimens and simplify mutual access to the patient management process. The epidemiological data acquired during the evaluation of the findings sheet are completely new in Germany and are seen as a feasibility study for a national lymph register that is being prepared. LYR also shows that standard treatment (CPD) has positive effects on circumferences, quality of life, and mobility. It was also shown that a high frequency of manual lymph drainage shortened the decongestion treatment period.
Case Report: Myelodysplastic syndrome- associated myeloid sarcoma: an unusual clinical presentation of a rare disease
Authors: Horvath Emoke , Demian Smaranda , Nagy Elod
Published: February 2016

Myeloid sarcoma results from the extramedullary homing and proliferation of immature myeloid precursors. We present the timeline, events and diagnostic pitfalls related to a 66 year-old male patient’s case, admitted to the Hematology Clinic for pancytopenia, fever, weight loss and fatigue. The severe cytopenia and the few blasts observed in his blood smear indicated a bone marrow biopsy. The bone marrow showed hypercellularity and multilineage dysplasia with the presence of 15% myeloblasts. After the biopsy, he promptly developed paraplegia and nuclear magnetic resonance revealed an epidural tumour which was then resected.In the epidural tumour mass blast-like, round cells were observed with a complex immunophenotype, characterized by myeloperoxidase, CD117, CD15, CD99, leucocyte common antigen positivity and a high Ki-67 proliferation index. Considering the main differential diagnostic issues, the final diagnosis was stated as myelodysplastic syndrome-associated myeloid sarcoma. The prognosis was unfavourable, the bone marrow was quickly invaded by proliferating blast cells, and despite chemotherapy attempts, the patient died.
Method activation end date in the past. direction:re
Authors: Дорофеев Владимир , Dorofeev Vladimir , Шестопал Юрий , Shestopal Yuriy , Щетинина Наталья , Shchetinina Natalya
Published: February 2016

Realization of controlling on the basis of a quality management system is considered. Strategic controlling coordinates functions of strategic planning, control and system of strategic information support, it provides possibility of long-term goals achievement. However, the significant role is assigned to the current control on control points. Combination of quality management system mechanisms and controlling gives the chance of substantial increase of all organization performance. Some issues of the planned results achievement can be resolved more effectively in the quality management system format as it based on system of the ISO 9000 standards.
Planning of financial activities of an economic entity within the concept of adaptive system approach
Authors: Левчаев Петр , Levchaev Petr
Published: February 2016

The concept of adaptability is examinedwith the perspective of the development of a systematic approach. The design issues of the financial system of the economic entity, the implementation of management functions depending on the characteristics of the control objectare explored
Method activation end date in the past. direction:re
Authors: Остапчук Алексей , Ostapchuk Aleksey
Published: February 2016

The article discloses trends and prospective directions of developing international tourism in Russia, as well as in the world. The quantity of international tourism arrivals in the world on the period from 2000 to 2013 years is analyzed. On the base statistics information of UNWTO ten countries-leaders of international tourism arrivals highlighted. Accordingly for highlighted ten countries profitability tourist activities for each of them was analyzed of. Resources located on the territory of Russia for providing and developing of cultural tourism was shortly described and summarized. Dynamics of entrance tourism in Russia and in the world analysed. The author further analyzed and highlighted top countries of entrance tourism in Russian Federation. It was theoretically identified the main priorities for the short and long prospects entrance tourism. The direct and indirect contribution of tourism to employment by ten countries-leaders of entrance tourism was estimated, effect of tourism on the economy of the Russian Federation was defined.
Human resource management in conditions of economic crisis
Authors: Егоршин Александр , YEgorshin Alyeksandr , Гуськова Ирина , Guskova Irina
Published: February 2016

The concepts of human resources and the system of personnel management in an organization are considered. The results of a sociological survey on anti-crisis measures in the field of personnel management are represented. The authors of the article suggest the measures to mitigate the crisis in human resource management owing to scientific management, motivation and labor incentives. The forms of the government regulation of wages in Russia’s economy sectors and the tasks of the Russian Federation Government in post-crisis period are studied.
IMPROVING THE UNIVERSITY REPUTATIONAL LIABILITY
Authors: Юдина Татьяна , Yudina Tatiana
Published: February 2016

One of priority problems of modernization of system of the higher education in Russia is overcoming the disproportions revealed during different years of monitoring of activity of higher education institutions, reduction of the contents, structure of vocational training of shots, technologies of realization of educational programs in compliance with requirements of employers and also taking into account the forecast of labor market, welfare and economic development. All this is possible at the stage of development of the higher school on condition of introduction of new mechanisms of management of the higher educational institutions based on formation and increase of their reputation, care of higher education institutions of the reputation responsibility.
Method activation end date in the past. direction:re
Authors: Пономарева Екатерина , Ponomareva Ekaterina , Першина Татьяна , Pershina Tatyana
Published: February 2016

Modern science is developing very fast, and many things are now becoming familiar and comes as no surprise. Not spared the development of technology, and the everyday, for example, manage their own home and facilitate daily household work.
Relação entre força de preensão manual e força de membro inferior em mulheres de meia idade: um estudo transversal
Authors: Vieira Mariana , Souza Carine , Câmara Saionara , Matos Gabrielle , Moreira Mayle , Maciel Álvaro
Published: February 2016

Embora a força de preensão manual (FPM) seja utilizada para avaliação de força total do corpo, ainda há contradição na literatura acerca da capacidade preditiva da força de membro inferior (FMI) a partir da FPM. Sabe-se que a FMI é determinante na estabilidade corporal e na locomoção, sendo de extrema importância sua avaliação de forma precisa. Portanto, o objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a correlação entre a FPM e FMI (flexores e extensores de joelho) em mulheres de meia idade. Trata-se de um estudo observacional analítico, transversal, com 395 mulheres (40 a 65 anos), avaliadas quanto à FPM e FMI (flexores e extensores de joelho). Foi utilizada correlação de Pearson, regressão linear e análise de Bland-Altman para análise dos dados, considerando significância de 5%. A média de idade das mulheres foi de 49,75(±5,8) anos. A média da FPM e FMI (flexão e extensão de joelho) foram, respectivamente: 25,8 (±5,4), 14,7 (±4,9) e 16,5 (±4,5) Kgf. Após análise de regressão linear e análise de Bland-Altman, o valor de R2 ajustado mostrou baixa capacidade de predição da FMI a partir da FPM, com a força de extensão do joelho (R2= 0,21) apresentando valores mais elevados que a força de flexão (R2= 0,13). A FPM correlaciona-se de maneira fraca com a força de extensão e flexão de joelhos em mulheres de meia idade, evidenciando a necessidade de avaliação de diferentes segmentos corporais a fim de uma estimativa mais criteriosa nesta população.
E-cigarettes and adolescents
Authors: Cope Graham
Published: February 2016

There is a concern that the use of e-cigs by adolescents could be a gateway to smoking, says Graham Cope
Atrial fibrillation: An update
Authors: Kochhar Suneeta
Published: February 2016

This form of cardiac arrhythmia may cause as many as 12,500 strokes each year, writes Suneeta Kochhar
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea in primary joint arthroplasty in Aneurin Bevan University Health Board South
Authors: Blocker O , Abdulkadir U , Roberts P
Published: February 2016

Introduction

The choice of perioperative antibiotics to reduce the prevalence of infection after joint arthroplasty should be considered carefully to minimise the risk of nosocomial infections. Dramatic increases in the incidence and severity of healthcare-associated Clostridium difficile infection with Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea (CDAD) have occurred since 2000.

Methods

A retrospective audit of patients who underwent total hip and total knee replacement between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2007 was undertaken in Aneurin Bevan University Health Board South (ABHBS). Stool samples from patients who had diarrhoea <12 months of surgery were recorded. Positive samples for CDAD <1 month of surgery were identified. After the change in practice in June 2010, a re-audit linked joint-replacement patients between 1 July 2010 and 26 June 2013 with infection control-records for CDAD-positive cases.

Results

In the first audit cycle, 1900 joint procedures were carried out in 1845 patients. There were 4 cases of CDAD <1 month of surgery (0.22%). In the re-audit period, 2591 joint procedures were undertaken in 2400 patients: no cases of CDAD <1 month of surgery were recorded. Fisher’s exact test gave a two-tailed p=0.036.

Conclusions

The significant reduction in CDAD cases after the change in perioperative antibiotic regimen for primary joint arthroplasty mirrored a 66% reduction in overall CDAD cases in the ABUHBS between 2008 and 2012. This reduction was accompanied by financial savings in antibiotics and nursing hours.
Isolation and Characterization of Pb Resistant Bacteria from Cilalay Lake, Indonesia
Authors: Kurnia Kesi , Sadi Nina Hermayani , Jumianto Syafitri
Published: February 2016

Pollution of water environment with heavy metals is becoming one of the most severe environmental and human health hazards. Lead (Pb) is a major pollutant and highly toxic to human, animals, plants, and microbes. Toxic metals are difficult to remove from the environment, since they cannot be chemically or biologically degraded and are ultimately indestructible. Biological approaches based on metal-resistant microorganisms have received a great deal of attention as alternative remediation processes. This study aim to isolate and characterize Pb resistant of heterotrophic bacteria in Cilalay Lake, West Java, Indonesia. The water samples were collected along three points around Cilalay Lake. Water physical and chemical determination was performed using the Water Quality Checker. The bacterial isolates were screened on Triptone Glucose Yeast (TGY) agar plates. Afterwards selected isolates were grown on Nutrient Agar media 50% with supplemented Pb 100 ppm by the standard disk. Population of resistant bacteria was counted. The result from metal resistant bacteria indicated that all isolates were resistant. The most abundant type of resistant bacteria to lead was Gram negative more than Gram positive. Identified have metal resistant bacteria could be useful for the bioremediation of heavy metal contaminated sewage and waste water
Capability of Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) to Accumulate Hg2+ From Water
Authors: Suseno Heny
Published: February 2016

Mercury is hazardous contaminant that can be accumulated by aquatic organisms such as fishes, mussels etc. Catfish is one of source of animal protein but it also can accumulate Hg2+ from water that used in aquaculture. Due to less information about capability of catfish to accumulate Hg2+, therefore we studied bioaccumulation of Hg2+ that used biokinetic approach (aqueous uptake-rate, and elimination-rate).  Nuclear application technique was applied in this study by using radiotracer of 203Hg.  A simple kinetic model was then constructed to predict the bioaccumulation capability of   by catfish. The result of experiments were shown that the uptake rate of difference Hg2+ concentration were 79.90 to 101.22 ml.g-1.d-1. Strong correlation between uptake rates with increasing Hg2+concentration. In addition, the elimination rates were range 0.080 – 0.081 day-1. The biology half time (t1/2b) of Hg2+ in whole body catfish were 8.50 – 8.63 days.  However, no clear correlation  between elimination rate with increasing concentration of Hg2+. The calculation of Bio Concentration Factor (BCF) shown catfish have capability to accumulated Hg maximum 1242.69 time than its concentration in water
Effects of Indole-3-Acetic Acid on Germination in Lead Polluted Petri Dish of Citrullus lanatus (Thunberg) Matsumura and Nakai, Cucurbitaceae
Authors: Ogwu Matthew Chidozie , Osas Aiwansoba Raymond , Edwin Osawaru Moses
Published: February 2016

Watermelon, Citrullus lanatus (Thunberg) Matsumura and Nakai is a tropical fruit vegetable. Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is a popular phytohormone while lead (Pb) is a common environmental pollutant in urban and sub-urban centers. C. lanatus were obtained from Benin City with a view to study the effects of IAA on their germination in Pb polluted environment.  Germination percentage without IAA and Pb treatment in petri dish was significant after ten days. Hastened germination was observed when IAA and lead were used. About 100 % germination was recorded after seven days. This suggests that water melon seeds can initiate growth even in lead polluted environment. Optimum level of 5 ppm IAA with the different levels of lead treatments may be recommended. Most important was that higher concentrations of Pb in the control (without IAA) did not inhibit seedling shoot nor root growth. Longest seedling shoot length (cm) was 10.33 ± 1.24 and 12.13 ± 2.06 on the seventh and eighth day respectively with the combined treatment levels of 1 ppm IAA and 15 ppm Pb. On the ninth day, 15.27 ± 0.96 was obtained from 1 ppm IAA and 20 ppm Pb. Longest seedling root length (cm) values were recorded from the combined treatment levels of 0 ppm IAA and 10 ppm Pb for the seventh (9.10 ± 0.47) and ninth (10.37 ± 1.81) day respectively and 0 ppm and 15 ppm Pb on the eighth (9.37 ± 0.84) day. Significant means were also obtained with the treatment level of 0 and 20 ppm IAA. This present study suggest the germination of C. lanatus under Pb polluted environment may be rescued with optimum IAA.
Concluding Remarks: The Organic Anthropocene
Authors: Brooke John L. , Otter Christopher
Published: January 2016

This article argues that the early modern period plays a pivotal role in global ecological history. It makes the case for a long “Organic Anthropocene” emerging from the Neolithic and gathering momentum after 1500 in the early modern era. This Organic Anthropocene is characterized by increasing agricultural carbon dioxide and methane emissions. The state-driven expansion of world empires into frontier zones accelerated global land use and catalyzed extinctions, biotic exchange, resource depletion, and deforestation. Since 1800 the Organic Anthropocene has been overlaid and occluded by a more extreme Mineral Anthropocene, culminating in the post-1945 Great Acceleration. While the concept of an Organic Anthropocene has strong historical support, the scientific climate modeling that seeks to provide a rigorous quantitative description has been in great contention in recent years. Here we spell out both the historians’ understanding and the scientists’ debate.