bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Justice, politics and the social usefulness of news
Authors: Konkes Claire , Lester Libby
Published: September 2015

In 2009 in Hobart, Australia, a 12-year-old ward of the state was advertised in a metropolitan newspaper as an 18-year-old prostitute. The decision to prosecute only one of the 100-plus men alleged to have paid her for sex made national headlines and gave rise to allegations of a conspiracy involving the highest levels of government and the judiciary. It also resulted in reform of the state’s laws relating to the ‘mistake as to age’ defence. This paper examines news coverage of the institutional responses to this criminal matter in order to theoretically understand the relationship between contemporary journalistic representations of crime and politicised controversy about social problems such as child sexual exploitation. Drawing on an analysis of problem framing in news coverage and interviews with journalists and their sources, it investigates how the news value of the story was identified and seeks to identify the point at which news coverage tipped beyond social usefulness towards public outrage and conspiracy.
The influence of repeated chin bar impacts on the protective properties of full-face mountain biking helmets
Authors: Warnica Meagan J , Park Jonathan , Cook Gillian , Parkinson Robert , Callaghan Jack P , Laing Andrew C
Published: September 2015

Full-face helmets are designed to protect against head and face injuries during downhill and free-ride mountain biking. This study assessed whether multiple impacts and helmet type are related to the protective properties of full-face helmets. A drop tower fitted with a helmeted headform simulated impacts to the chin following a forwards fall. Four models of full-face mountain biking helmets were tested. Three repeated trials were completed for each helmet at four impact velocities. Outcome variables included head injury criterion score, peak force, and peak acceleration. Peak accelerations for all trials were below the 300 g pass/fail criterion used in some testing standards. Multiple impacts reduced helmet protective properties, most noticeably at the higher impact velocities (increases in impact severity measures ranging from 11% to 22% for low and 17% to 49% for higher impact velocities). However, the effects of multiple impacts were smaller than the differences observed across individual helmet types. Helmet protective properties were associated with local chin bar characteristics, most notably chin bar length at higher impact velocities. Towards the goal of reducing overall head/brain injury risk in cyclists, there may be value in complimentary messaging about the importance of repeated impacts and helmet type on the protective properties of downhill mountain biking helmets.
Performance Comparison of CGM Systems
Authors: Kirchsteiger Harald , Heinemann Lutz , Freckmann Guido , Lodwig Volker , Schmelzeisen-Redeker Günther , Schoemaker Michael , del Re Luigi
Published: September 2015

Background:

The ongoing progress of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems results in an increasing interest in comparing their performance, in particular in terms of accuracy, that is, matching CGM readings with reference values measured at the same time. Most often accuracy is evaluated by the mean absolute relative difference (MARD). It is frequently overseen that MARD does not only reflect accuracy, but also the study protocol and evaluation procedure, making a cross-study comparison problematic.

Methods:

We evaluate the effect of several factors on the MARD statistical properties: number of paired reference and CGM values, distribution of the paired values, accuracy of the reference measurement device itself and the time delay between data pairs. All analysis is done using clinical data from 12 patients wearing 6 sensors each.

Results:

We have found that a few paired points can have a potentially high impact on MARD. Leaving out those points for evaluation thus reduces the MARD. Similarly, accuracy of the reference measurements greatly affects the MARD as numerical and graphical data show. Results also show that a log-normal distribution of the paired references provides a significantly different MARD than, for example, a uniform distribution.

Conclusions:

MARD is a reasonable parameter to characterize the performance of CGM systems when keeping its limitations in mind. To support clinicians and patients in selecting which CGM system to use in a clinical setting, care should be taken to make MARD more comparable by employing a standardized evaluation procedure.
The Taste of Typeface
Authors: Velasco Carlos , Woods Andy T. , Hyndman Sarah , Spence Charles
Published: September 2015

Previous research has demonstrated that typefaces can convey meaning over-and-above the actual semantic content of whatever happens to be written. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that people match basic taste words (sweet, sour, salty, and bitter) to typefaces varying in their roundness versus angularity. In Experiment 1, the participants matched rounder typefaces with the word “sweet,” while matching more angular typefaces with the taste words “bitter,” “salty,” and “sour.” Experiment 2 demonstrates that rounder typefaces are liked more and are judged easier to read than their more angular counterparts. We conclude that there is a strong relationship between roundness/angularity, ease of processing, and typeface liking, which in turn influences the correspondence between typeface and taste. These results are discussed in terms of the notion of affective crossmodal correspondences.
‘Everything’s from the inside out with PCOS’: Exploring women’s experiences of living with polycystic ovary syndrome and co-morbidities through Skype™ interviews
Authors: Williams Sophie , Sheffield David , Knibb Rebecca C
Published: September 2015

Polycystic ovary syndrome is an endocrine disorder affecting 1 in 10 women. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome can experience co-morbidities, including depressive symptoms. This research explores the experience of living with polycystic ovary syndrome and co-morbidities. Totally, 10 participants with polycystic ovary syndrome took part in Skype™ interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. Four themes emerged from the data: change (to life plans and changing nature of condition); support (healthcare professionals, education and relationships); co-morbidities (living with other conditions and depression, self-harm and suicidal ideation) and identity (feminine identity and us and them). The findings highlight the need for screening of women with polycystic ovary syndrome for depressive disorders.
Slip-Sliding-Away
Authors: Kernbach Sebastian , Bresciani Sabrina , Eppler Martin J.
Published: September 2015

PowerPoint is a dominant communication tool in business and education. It allows for creating professional-looking presentations easily, but without understanding its constraining qualities it can be used inappropriately. Therefore we conducted a systematic literature review structuring the literature on PowerPoint in three chronological phases ( Early Criticism, Heated Debate, and Scientific Take-Off) and identifying 18 constraining qualities classified into three categories: cognitive, emotional, and social. This article provides implications for educators’ and practitioners’ use (and nonuse) of PowerPoint through synthesis and description of such constraining qualities. Directions for future research are developed by identifying theoretical gaps in literature on PowerPoint.
Interaction of Zn and Zn–4Al, Zn–15Al (wt-%) solder alloys with aluminium
Authors: Bazhenov V. E. , Pashkov I. N. , Pikunov M. V. , Cheverikin V. V. , Anohin A. A.
Published: September 2015

The interaction of pure zinc and Zn–4Al, Zn–15Al (wt-%) solder alloys with aluminium has been investigated. Two different experimental techniques were used: (i) the aluminium samples soldering and (ii) the holding of liquid solder alloys inside the hollow in an aluminium base. The aluminium content was determined in samples after contact with aluminium at various temperatures and various holding times. It is shown that in soldered seams and solder alloys that had been held inside the aluminium base, the content of the aluminium was higher than at the points on the liquidus line on the Zn–Al equilibrium phase diagram at the corresponding temperatures and increases along with an increase in the holding time. This was apparently due to isothermal solidification.
MAPK signaling cascades mediate distinct glucocorticoid resistance mechanisms in pediatric leukemia
Authors: Jones Courtney L. , Gearheart Christy M. , Fosmire Susan , Delgado-Martin Cristina , Evensen Nikki A. , Bride Karen , Waanders Angela J. , Pais Faye , Wang Jinhua , Bhatla Teena , Bitterman Danielle S. , de Rijk Simone R. , Bourgeois Wallace , Dandekar Smita , Park Eugene , Burleson Tamara M. , Madhusoodhan Pillai Pallavi , Teachey David T. , Raetz Elizabeth A. , Hermiston Michelle L. , Müschen Markus , Loh Mignon L. , Hunger Stephen P. , Zhang Jinghui , Garabedian Michael J. , Porter Christopher C. , Carroll William L.
Published: September 2015

Key Points

Genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of MEK4 and MEK2 enhances prednisolone-induced cell death in ALL models. MAPK signaling cascades are activated at relapse compared to diagnosis in ALL samples and have enhanced response to MEK inhibition.
Rap1 and its effector RIAM are required for lymphocyte trafficking
Authors: Su Wenjuan , Wynne Joseph , Pinheiro Elaine M. , Strazza Marianne , Mor Adam , Montenont Emilie , Berger Jeffrey , Paul David S. , Bergmeier Wolfgang , Gertler Frank B. , Philips Mark R.
Published: September 2015

Key Points

Rap1 and its effector RIAM are required for integrin-mediated T-cell adhesion and homing to lymph nodes, but not for T-cell development. RIAM regulates the activation of lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 and very late antigen 4 on lymphocytes, but not αIIbβ3 on platelets.
Factor XIIIa-dependent retention of red blood cells in clots is mediated by fibrin α-chain crosslinking
Authors: Byrnes James R. , Duval Cédric , Wang Yiming , Hansen Caroline E. , Ahn Byungwook , Mooberry Micah J. , Clark Martha A. , Johnsen Jill M. , Lord Susan T. , Lam Wilbur A. , Meijers Joost C. M. , Ni Heyu , Ariëns Robert A. S. , Wolberg Alisa S.
Published: September 2015

Key Points

In the absence of FXIIIa activity, red blood cells are extruded from clots during clot contraction. Factor XIIIa promotes red blood cell retention in contracting clots by crosslinking fibrin α-chains.
Low B and T lymphocyte attenuator expression on CD4+ T cells in the early stage of sepsis is associated with the severity and mortality of septic patients: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Shao Rui , Li Chun-Sheng , Fang Yingying , Zhao Lianxing , Hang Chenchen
Published: September 2015

Introduction

B and T lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) is an inhibitory receptor, whose primary role in CD4+ T cell is thought to inhibit cytokine production. We explore BTLA expression on CD4+ T cells in healthy controls and septic patients, and assess the correlation of BTLA expression on CD4+ T cells in the early stage of sepsis with the severity and mortality of septic patients in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

336 consecutive patients were included in this study. BTLA expression on CD4+ T cells was measured by flow cytometry within 24h of ED admission.

Results

Our results showed that the percentage of BTLA+/CD4+ T cells was high expression in healthy volunteers and it was statistically reduced in severe sepsis and septic shock compared with healthy controls(all P<0.01). The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) curves of BTLA expression on CD4+ T cells was slightly lower than that of procalcitonin (PCT) and Mortality in Emergency Department Sepsis (MEDS) score. The percentage of BTLA+/CD4+T cells was lower in non-survivors than in survivors (P<0.01), and similar results were obtained when expressed as mean of fluorescence intensities (MFI) (P<0.01). Adjusted logistic regression analysis suggested that the percentage of BTLA+/CD4+ T cells was associated with 28-day mortality in septic patients (odds ratio (OR) = 0.394).

Conclusion

Our study shows that the percentage of BTLA+/CD4+ T cells was high in healthy volunteers. Furthermore, lower percentage of BTLA+/CD4+ T cells during the early stage of sepsis is associated with the severity and the mortality of septic patients.
Fixed point results for generalized F-contractions in modular metric and fuzzy metric spaces
Authors: Hussain Nawab , Latif Abdul , Iqbal Iram
Published: September 2015

The notion of modular metric space, being a natural generalization of classical modulars over linear spaces, was recently introduced. In this paper, we introduce a generalized F-contraction in modular metric space and investigate the existence of fixed points for such contractions. As applications, we derive some new fixed point theorems in partially ordered modular metric spaces, Suzuki type fixed point theorems in modular metric spaces and fixed point theorems for contractions involving integral inequalities. Moreover, we deduce new fixed point results in triangular fuzzy metric spaces and provide some examples to illustrate the usability of the obtained results.
A retrospective study of head and neck re-irradiation for patients with recurrent or second primary head and neck cancer: The McGill University experience
Authors: Al-Wassia Rolina , Vakilian Siavosh , Holly Crystal , Sultanem Khalil , Shenouda George
Published: September 2015

Background

We report our experience with patients who received re-irradiation to the head and neck area for locoregional recurrences (LRR) or second primaries (SP) in a previously irradiated field.

Methods

We reviewed 27 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of LRR or SP head and neck carcinoma treated with a second course of radiotherapy between April 2004 and July 2012. The main outcome measures were local control, overall survival, and complications. The results are expressed as actuarial values using the Kaplan–Meier estimates.

Results

The median follow-up time was 24.7 months (range: 11 days–79.3 months). There were 23 males and four females with a median age of 61 years (range: 40–87 years). The actuarial overall survival rates at 1, 2, and 5 years were 77, 59, and 57 %, respectively. The actuarial local control rate was 80, 52, and 52 % at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively. Three patients developed systemic metastases. The rate of grade 3 toxicity was 26 %, and that of grade 4 toxicity was 3 %. There were two treatment-related deaths (grade 5 toxicity).

Conclusions

Continuous course re-irradiation in patients with LRR or SP head and neck cancer is feasible with acceptable toxicity. With current encouraging rates of local control and overall survival, this option should be discussed with patients who have few alternative therapeutic options.
Complete genome sequence of Vibrio anguillarum strain NB10, a virulent isolate from the Gulf of Bothnia
Authors: Holm Kåre Olav , Nilsson Kristina , Hjerde Erik , Willassen Nils-Peder , Milton Debra L.
Published: September 2015

Vibrio anguillarum causes a fatal hemorrhagic septicemia in marine fish that leads to great economical losses in aquaculture world-wide. Vibrio anguillarum strain NB10 serotype O1 is a Gram-negative, motile, curved rod-shaped bacterium, isolated from a diseased fish on the Swedish coast of the Gulf of Bothnia, and is slightly halophilic. Strain NB10 is a virulent isolate that readily colonizes fish skin and intestinal tissues. Here, the features of this bacterium are described and the annotation and analysis of its complete genome sequence is presented. The genome is 4,373,835 bp in size, consists of two circular chromosomes and one plasmid, and contains 3,783 protein-coding genes and 129 RNA genes.
Phase and amplitude tracking for seismic event separation
Authors: Li Yunyue Elita , Demanet Laurent
Published: September 2015

We have developed a method to decompose seismic records into atomic events, each defined by a smooth phase function and a smooth amplitude function. This decomposition is intrinsically nonlinear and calls for a nonconvex least-squares optimization formulation, along the lines of full-waveform inversion. To overcome the lack of convexity, we have developed an iterative refinement-expansion scheme to initialize and track the phase and amplitude for each atomic event. For short, we called the method phase tracking. The initialization is carried out by applying multiple signal classification to a few seed traces in which events can be separated and identified by their arrival times and amplitudes. We then construct the initial solution at the seed traces using linear phase functions from the arrival times and constant amplitude functions, assuming the medium is mostly dispersion free. We refine this initial solution to account for dispersion and imperfect knowledge of the wavelet at the seed traces by fitting the observed data using a gradient descent method. The resulting phase and amplitude functions are then carefully expanded across the traces in an adequately smooth way to match the whole data record. We have evaluated the proposed method on two synthetic records and a field record. Because the parametrization of the seismic events is physically meaningful, it also enables a simple form of bandwidth extension of the observed shot record to unobserved low and high frequencies. We tested this procedure on the same shot records. Bandwidth extension is in principle helpful to initialize full-waveform inversion with frequency sweeps and enhanced its resolution.
Characterization of gas hydrate distribution using conventional 3D seismic data in the Pearl River Mouth Basin, South China Sea
Authors: Wang Xiujuan , Qian Jin , Collett Timothy S. , Shi Hesheng , Yang Shengxiong , Yan Chengzhi , Li Yuanping , Wang Zhenzhen , Chen Duanxin
Published: September 2015

A new 3D seismic reflection data volume acquired in 2012 has allowed for the detailed mapping and characterization of gas hydrate distribution in the Pearl River Mouth Basin in the South China Sea. Previous studies of core and logging data showed that gas hydrate occurrence at high concentrations is controlled by the presence of relatively coarse-grained sediment and the upward migration of thermogenic gas from the deeper sediment section into the overlying gas hydrate stability zone (BGHSZ); however, the spatial distribution of the gas hydrate remains poorly defined. We used a constrained sparse spike inversion technique to generate acoustic-impedance images of the hydrate-bearing sedimentary section from the newly acquired 3D seismic data volume. High-amplitude reflections just above the bottom-simulating reflectors (BSRs) were interpreted to be associated with the accumulation of gas hydrate with elevated saturations. Enhanced seismic reflections below the BSRs were interpreted to indicate the presence of free gas. The base of the BGHSZ was established using the occurrence of BSRs. In areas absent of well-developed BSRs, the BGHSZ was calculated from a model using the inverted P-wave velocity and subsurface temperature data. Seismic attributes were also extracted along the BGHSZ that indicate variations reservoir properties and inferred hydrocarbon accumulations at each site. Gas hydrate saturations estimated from the inversion of acoustic impedance of conventional 3D seismic data, along with well-log-derived rock-physics models were also used to estimate gas hydrate saturations. Our analysis determined that the gas hydrate petroleum system varies significantly across the Pearl River Mouth Basin and that variability in sedimentary properties as a product of depositional processes and the upward migration of gas from deeper thermogenic sources control the distribution of gas hydrates in this basin.
Serotonin syndrome: a spectrum of toxicity
Authors: Ellahi Rabia
Published: September 2015

Serotonin syndrome (serotonin toxicity or serotonin toxidrome) is a potentially serious and theoretically predictable reaction that appears to be rarely diagnosed in practice in the UK. Some symptoms of serotonin syndrome overlap with features of other presentations in psychiatry and thus may be misattributed to mental illness (‘diagnostic overshadowing’). Further, there may be diagnostic dilemmas in patients on combinations of drugs, those receiving drugs with previously unknown serotonergic properties or where there are drug interactions. Prescriber vigilance and holistic review of the patient, including the pharmacotherapy, may be helpful in avoiding progression of serotonin syndrome to more serious outcomes.
New approaches to treating resistant depression
Authors: Cowen Philip J. , Anderson Ian M.
Published: September 2015

Persistent major depression that does not respond to adequate first- or
second-line treatment is a common problem in psychiatry. This article
updates evidence on recommended treatment strategies and reviews the
prospects of more experimental approaches. The main pharmacological
development in recent years has been the demonstration that several atypical
antipsychotic drugs are effective adjunctive agents in improving symptoms in
depression unresponsive to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, although
their adverse effect burden is high. There is optimism about novel
pharmacological strategies based on glutamatergic and anti-inflammatory
mechanisms. It is important to combine drug and psychological treatments
whenever possible. With persistent therapeutic engagement, the majority of
patients remit eventually, but subsequent relapse remains a problem.
Clinicians should pursue an active and collaborative treatment plan that
makes use of all effective therapeutic modalities and continues into the
relapse-prevention phase.
The expert witness and the criminal courts
Authors: Hirst Michael
Published: September 2015

This piece seeks to complement Professor Rix's article on expert competence
and professional misconduct by examining a related issue, namely the
increasingly strict approach of the criminal courts to the reception of
expert evidence. It considers recent case law, rules of procedure and
legislation, and addresses both the admissibility of expert evidence and the
duties of expert witnesses.
Kaleidoscope
Authors: Tracy Derek K. , Joyce Dan W. , Shergill Sukhwinder S.
Published: September 2015

Palcohol. What is it? It's a powdered alcohol that has recently been approved for sale in the USA.

On the one hand, it is just adding choice, offering a new, crystalline form of one of the world's most commonly used and enjoyed chemicals (although recent news stories1 of some Australians brewing moonshine from Vegemite are surely pushing choice beyond the pale). However, there are some specific challenges with palcohol, which are well articulated in an editorial in JAMA by Naimi & Mosher.2 The powder is sold at 50% alcohol by weight, but the strength by volume will depend on how it is diluted. It can be more easily concealed than liquid alcohol, and it could be added – surreptitiously – to another alcoholic beverage. The potential for misuse, including by children, is self-evident; indeed, a video of an individual eating palcohol has already been uploaded, along with discussions on inhaling it, though such acts appear unlikely to produce intoxication. What is its current status in the UK? Answering a parliamentary question in the House of Lords earlier this year Lord Bates noted3 that ‘The Government is not aware of powdered alcohol being marketed or made available to buy in England and Wales'. However, a very quick and simple check on a well-known internet search engine gave a web-link to buy palcohol online.
Public mental health: An interdisciplinary subject?
Authors: Stewart-Brown Sarah L.
Published: September 2015

The Chief Medical Officer's report for 2013 was the first of its kind to highlight the public's mental rather than physical health and thus represents a very important landmark for public health in the UK. Written primarily from the perspective of psychiatrists, the report has created confusion in public health circles by failing to adequately address the public health perspective. David Foreman's editorial in this issue, calling as it does for more training in public health for psychiatrists, is therefore very welcome and timely.
Authenticity
Authors: Brunskill David
Published: September 2015

Four components determine the degree of authenticity: awareness that we all have good and bad aspects; unbiased processing of both these aspects that should be accepted; behaviour congruent with the true self; and relational orientation in which there is honesty/self-disclosure that allows others to see us as we really are. Striving for a high degree of authenticity can seem a lofty aim (think Maslow's pyramid) because to achieve it, one's core self must first be identified, then accepted and finally, allowed to live and be. Perhaps the psychological prize of healthy functioning and life satisfaction is worth an inevitable struggle?
Phase I Dose-Escalation Study of JNJ-42756493, an Oral Pan–Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor, in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Tabernero Josep , Bahleda Rastislav , Dienstmann Rodrigo , Infante Jeffrey R. , Mita Alain , Italiano Antoine , Calvo Emiliano , Moreno Victor , Adamo Barbara , Gazzah Anas , Zhong Bob , Platero Suso J. , Smit Johan W. , Stuyckens Kim , Chatterjee-Kishore Moitreyee , Rodon Jordi , Peddareddigari Vijay , Luo Feng R. , Soria Jean-Charles
Published: September 2015

Purpose

JNJ-42756493 is an orally administered pan-fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor. This first-in-human study evaluates the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics and defines the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of JNJ-42756493.

Patients and Methods

Eligible patients with advanced solid tumors received escalating doses of JNJ-42756493 from 0.5 to 12 mg administered continuously daily or JNJ-42756493 10 or 12 mg administered intermittently (7 days on/7 days off).

Results

Sixty-five patients were enrolled. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events included hyperphosphatemia (65%), asthenia (55%), dry mouth (45%), nail toxicity (35%), constipation (34%), decreased appetite (32%), and dysgeusia (31%). Twenty-seven patients (42%) experienced grade ≥ 3 treatment-emergent adverse events, and one dose-limiting toxicity of grade 3 ALT elevation was observed at 12 mg daily. Maximum-tolerated dose was not defined. Nine milligrams daily was considered as the initial RP2D; however, tolerability was improved with intermittent schedules, and 10 mg administered on a 7-days-on/7-days-off schedule was considered the final RP2D. Pharmacokinetics were linear, dose proportional, and predictable, with a half-life of 50 to 60 hours. Dose-dependent elevations in serum phosphate, a manifestation of pharmacodynamic effect, occurred in all patients starting at 4 mg daily. Among 23 response-evaluable patients with tumor FGFR pathway alterations, four confirmed responses and one unconfirmed partial response were observed in patients with glioblastoma and urothelial and endometrial cancer (all with FGFR2 or FGFR3 translocations); 16 patients had stable disease.

Conclusion

JNJ-42756493 administered at 10 mg on a 7-days-on/7-days-off schedule achieved exposures at which clinical responses were observed, demonstrated pharmacodynamic biomarker activity, and had a manageable safety profile.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Inpatient Palliative Care Consultation for Patients With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Sharma Rashmi K. , Cameron Kenzie A. , Chmiel Joan S. , Von Roenn Jamie H. , Szmuilowicz Eytan , Prigerson Holly G. , Penedo Frank J.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

Inpatient palliative care consultation (IPCC) may help address barriers that limit the use of hospice and the receipt of symptom-focused care for racial/ethnic minorities, yet little is known about disparities in the rates of IPCC. We evaluated the association between race/ethnicity and rates of IPCC for patients with advanced cancer.

Patients and Methods

Patients with metastatic cancer who were hospitalized between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2010, at an urban academic medical center participated in the study. Patient-level multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between race/ethnicity and IPCC.

Results

A total of 6,288 patients (69% non-Hispanic white, 19% African American, and 6% Hispanic) were eligible. Of these patients, 16% of whites, 22% of African Americans, and 20% of Hispanics had an IPCC (overall P < .001). Compared with whites, African Americans had a greater likelihood of receiving an IPCC (odds ratio, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.44), even after adjusting for insurance, hospitalizations, marital status, and illness severity. Among patients who received an IPCC, African Americans had a higher median number of days from IPCC to death compared with whites (25 v 17 days; P = .006), and were more likely than Hispanics (59% v 41%; P = .006), but not whites, to be referred to hospice.

Conclusion

Inpatient settings may neutralize some racial/ethnic differences in access to hospice and palliative care services; however, irrespective of race/ethnicity, rates of IPCC remain low and occur close to death. Additional research is needed to identify interventions to improve access to palliative care in the hospital for all patients with advanced cancer.
Adjuvant Erlotinib Versus Placebo in Patients With Stage IB-IIIA Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer (RADIANT): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase III Trial
Authors: Kelly Karen , Altorki Nasser K. , Eberhardt Wilfried E.E. , O'Brien Mary E.R. , Spigel David R. , Crinò Lucio , Tsai Chun-Ming , Kim Joo-Hang , Cho Eun Kyung , Hoffman Philip C. , Orlov Sergey V. , Serwatowski Piotr , Wang Jiuzhou , Foley Margaret A. , Horan Julie D. , Shepherd Frances A.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) –tyrosine kinase inhibitors have proven efficacy in advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We hypothesized that erlotinib would be efficacious in the adjuvant setting.

Patients and Methods

An international randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted in patients with completely resected IB to IIIA NSCLC whose tumors expressed EGFR protein by immunohistochemistry or EGFR amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Patients were assigned 2:1 to erlotinib 150 mg once per day or placebo for 2 years. Stratification factors were stage, histology, previous adjuvant chemotherapy, smoking status, EGFR amplification status, and country. The primary end point was disease-free survival (DFS); key secondary end points were overall survival (OS) and DFS and OS in patients whose tumors had EGFR-activating mutations (EGFRm-positive).

Results

A total of 973 patients were randomly assigned (November 26, 2007, to July 7, 2010). There was no statistically significant difference in DFS (median, 50.5 months for erlotinib and 48.2 months for placebo; hazard ratio, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.74 to 1.10; P = .324). Among the 161 patients (16.5%) in the EGFRm-positive subgroup, DFS favored erlotinib (median, 46.4 v 28.5 months; hazard ratio, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.38 to 0.98; P = .039), but this was not statistically significant because of the hierarchical testing procedure. OS data are immature. Rash and diarrhea were common adverse events occurring in 528 (86.4%) and 319 (52.2%) patients treated with erlotinib, respectively, versus 110 (32.1%) and 54 (15.7%) patients receiving placebo. The most common grade 3 adverse events in patients treated with erlotinib were rash (22.3%) and diarrhea (6.2%).

Conclusion

Adjuvant erlotinib did not prolong DFS in patients with EGFR-expressing NSCLC or in the EGFRm-positive subgroup. Further evaluation of erlotinib is warranted in the EGFRm-positive subgroup.
Intermediate and Longer-Term Outcomes From a Prospective Active-Surveillance Program for Favorable-Risk Prostate Cancer
Authors: Tosoian Jeffrey J. , Mamawala Mufaddal , Epstein Jonathan I. , Landis Patricia , Wolf Sacha , Trock Bruce J. , Carter H. Ballentine
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To assess long-term outcomes of men with favorable-risk prostate cancer in a prospective, active-surveillance program.

Methods

Curative intervention was recommended for disease reclassification to higher cancer grade or volume on prostate biopsy. Primary outcomes were overall, cancer-specific, and metastasis-free survival. Secondary outcomes were the cumulative incidence of reclassification and curative intervention. Factors associated with grade reclassification and curative intervention were evaluated in a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

A total of 1,298 men (median age, 66 years) with a median follow-up of 5 years (range, 0.01 to 18.00 years) contributed 6,766 person-years of follow-up since 1995. Overall, cancer-specific, and metastasis-free survival rates were 93%, 99.9%, and 99.4%, respectively, at 10 years and 69%, 99.9%, and 99.4%, respectively, at 15 years. The cumulative incidence of grade reclassification was 26% at 10 years and was 31% at 15 years; cumulative incidence of curative intervention was 50% at 10 years and was 57% at 15 years. The median treatment-free survival was 8.5 years (range, 0.01 to 18 years). Factors associated with grade reclassification were older age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.03 for each additional year; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.06), prostate-specific antigen density (HR, 1.21 per 0.1 unit increase; 95% CI, 1.12 to 1.46), and greater number of positive biopsy cores (HR, 1.47 for each additional positive core; 95% CI, 1.26 to 1.69). Factors associated with intervention were prostate-specific antigen density (HR, 1.38 per 0.1 unit increase; 95% CI, 1.22 to 1.56) and a greater number of positive biopsy cores (HR, 1.35 for one additional positive core; 95% CI, 1.19 to 1.53).

Conclusion

Men with favorable-risk prostate cancer should be informed of the low likelihood of harm from their diagnosis and should be encouraged to consider surveillance rather than curative intervention.
American Society of Clinical Oncology Policy Statement Update: Genetic and Genomic Testing for Cancer Susceptibility
Authors: Robson Mark E. , Bradbury Angela R. , Arun Banu , Domchek Susan M. , Ford James M. , Hampel Heather L. , Lipkin Stephen M. , Syngal Sapna , Wollins Dana S. , Lindor Noralane M.
Published: September 2015

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has long affirmed that the recognition and management of individuals with an inherited susceptibility to cancer are core elements of oncology care. ASCO released its first statement on genetic testing in 1996 and updated that statement in 2003 and 2010 in response to developments in the field. In 2014, the Cancer Prevention and Ethics Committees of ASCO commissioned another update to reflect the impact of advances in this area on oncology practice. In particular, there was an interest in addressing the opportunities and challenges arising from the application of massively parallel sequencing—also known as next-generation sequencing—to cancer susceptibility testing. This technology introduces a new level of complexity into the practice of cancer risk assessment and management, requiring renewed effort on the part of ASCO to ensure that those providing care to patients with cancer receive the necessary education to use this new technology in the most effective, beneficial manner. The purpose of this statement is to explore the challenges of new and emerging technologies in cancer genetics and provide recommendations to ensure their optimal deployment in oncology practice. Specifically, the statement makes recommendations in the following areas: germline implications of somatic mutation profiling, multigene panel testing for cancer susceptibility, quality assurance in genetic testing, education of oncology professionals, and access to cancer genetic services.
Pasiflora proteins are novel core components of the septate junction
Authors: Deligiannaki Myrto , Casper Abbie L. , Jung Christophe , Gaul Ulrike
Published: September 2015

Epithelial sheets play essential roles as selective barriers insulating the body from the environment and establishing distinct chemical compartments within it. In invertebrate epithelia, septate junctions (SJs) consist of large multi-protein complexes that localize at the apicolateral membrane and mediate barrier function. Here, we report the identification of two novel SJ components, Pasiflora1 and Pasiflora2, through a genome-wide glial RNAi screen in Drosophila. Pasiflora mutants show permeable blood-brain and tracheal barriers, overelongated tracheal tubes and mislocalization of SJ proteins. Consistent with the observed phenotypes, the genes are co-expressed in embryonic epithelia and glia and are required cell-autonomously to exert their function. Pasiflora1 and Pasiflora2 belong to a previously uncharacterized family of tetraspan membrane proteins conserved across the protostome-deuterostome divide. Both proteins localize at SJs and their apicolateral membrane accumulation depends on other complex components. In fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiments we demonstrate that pasiflora proteins are core SJ components as they are required for complex formation and exhibit restricted mobility within the membrane of wild-type epithelial cells, but rapid diffusion in cells with disrupted SJs. Taken together, our results show that Pasiflora1 and Pasiflora2 are novel integral components of the SJ and implicate a new family of tetraspan proteins in the function of these ancient and crucial cell junctions.
Neuromesodermal progenitors and the making of the spinal cord
Authors: Henrique Domingos , Abranches Elsa , Verrier Laure , Storey Kate G.
Published: September 2015

Neuromesodermal progenitors (NMps) contribute to both the elongating spinal cord and the adjacent paraxial mesoderm. It has been assumed that these cells arise as a result of patterning of the anterior neural plate. However, as the molecular mechanisms that specify NMps in vivo are uncovered, and as protocols for generating these bipotent cells from mouse and human pluripotent stem cells in vitro are established, the emerging data suggest that this view needs to be revised. Here, we review the characteristics, regulation, in vitro derivation and in vivo induction of NMps. We propose that these cells arise within primitive streak-associated epiblast via a mechanism that is separable from that which establishes neural fate in the anterior epiblast. We thus argue for the existence of two distinct routes for making central nervous system progenitors.
Trithorax and Polycomb group-dependent regulation: a tale of opposing activities
Authors: Geisler Sarah J. , Paro Renato
Published: September 2015

Intricate layers of regulation determine the unique gene expression profiles of a given cell and, therefore, underlie the immense phenotypic diversity observed among cell types. Understanding the mechanisms that govern which genes are expressed and which genes are silenced is a fundamental focus in biology. The Polycomb and Trithorax group chromatin proteins play important roles promoting the stable and heritable repression and activation of gene expression, respectively. These proteins, which are conserved across metazoans, modulate post-translational modifications on histone tails and regulate nucleosomal structures. Here, we review recent advances that have shed light on the mechanisms by which these two classes of proteins act to maintain epigenetic memory and allow dynamic switches in gene expression during development.
An interview with Didier Stainier
Authors: Grewal Seema
Published: September 2015

Didier Stainier is a Principal Investigator at the Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Bad Nauheim, Germany. Having spent most of his career in the USA using zebrafish to study organ development, Didier recently moved back to Europe and is now branching out to study organ development in mice. At a recent conference, we caught up with Didier and asked him about his career, his thoughts on funding, view on morpholinos and his advice for young researchers.
Dual functions of Macpiwi1 in transposon silencing and stem cell maintenance in the flatworm Macrostomum lignano
Authors: Zhou Xin , Battistoni Giorgia , El Demerdash Osama , Gurtowski James , Wunderer Julia , Falciatori Ilaria , Ladurner Peter , Schatz Michael C. , Hannon Gregory J. , Wasik Kaja A.
Published: September 2015

PIWI proteins and piRNA pathways are essential for transposon silencing and some aspects of gene regulation during animal germline development. In contrast to most animal species, some flatworms also express PIWIs and piRNAs in somatic stem cells, where they are required for tissue renewal and regeneration. Here, we have identified and characterized piRNAs and PIWI proteins in the emerging model flatworm Macrostomum lignano. We found that M. lignano encodes at least three PIWI proteins. One of these, Macpiwi1, acts as a key component of the canonical piRNA pathway in the germline and in somatic stem cells. Knockdown of Macpiwi1 dramatically reduces piRNA levels, derepresses transposons, and severely impacts stem cell maintenance. Knockdown of the piRNA biogenesis factor Macvasa caused an even greater reduction in piRNA levels with a corresponding increase in transposons. Yet, in Macvasa knockdown animals, we detected no major impact on stem cell self-renewal. These results may suggest stem cell maintenance functions of PIWI proteins in flatworms that are distinguishable from their impact on transposons and that might function independently of what are considered canonical piRNA populations.
Music therapy in neurological rehabilitation settings
Authors: Galińska Elżbieta
Published: September 2015

Muzykoterapia neurologiczna jest nowym zakresem stosowania muzykoterapii. Jej techniki zajmują się dysfunkcjami, wynikającymi z uszkodzeń układu nerwowego człowieka. Muzyka jest tu traktowana, jako alternatywna modalność dająca dostęp do funkcji niedostępnych przy pomocy nie muzycznego bodźca. Uruchomione pod wpływem muzyki procesy w mózgu mogą podlegać generalizacji i transferowi na nie-muzyczne funkcje. Z tego względu w praktyce klinicznej dokonuje się translacji ćwiczeń i bodźców terapeutycznych nie muzycznych na analogiczne, izomorficzne ćwiczenia muzyczne. Wykorzystują one specyfikę wykonawczą instrumentów muzycznych oraz strukturę muzyki do torowania, sygnałowania i koordynacji ruchu. Spośród parametrów muzycznych szczególną rolę zyskuje repetycyjny rytm, który służy do regulacji funkcji fizjologicznych i behawioralnych w oparciu o mechanizm entrainment – synchronizacji rytmów biologicznych z rytmem muzycznym na zasadzie rezonansu akustycznego. Posiada to szczególne znaczenie dla pacjentów z deficytem wewnętrznego systemu strukturyzowania czasu w mózgu. Regularne wzory rytmiczne ułatwiają ponadto kodowanie informacji pozamuzycznej w pamięci, dzięki czemu muzyka jest skutecznym narzędziem mnemonicznym. Muzyka jako hierarchiczny, złożony język czasowy, mający unikatowy dostęp do afektywno-motywacyjnych systemów/obszarów w mózgu, dostarcza struktur czasowych poprawiając procesy percepcyjne, zwłaszcza w zakresie poznania, języka i uczenia się motorycznego. Pozwala przy tym na ekspresję emocji i zwiększa motywację do ćwiczeń. Pojawiają się nowe technologie sensorycznej, słuchowej stymulacji rytmicznej np. w postaci dwuusznego dudnienia, czy tzw. terapii audio-wizualnej, łączącej stymulację rytmem muzycznym z terapią światłem. Te multimodalne formy stymulacji znajdują zastosowanie w leczeniu stanów po udarach, po urazach mózgu, stanów otępiennych oraz w innych deficytach poznawczych. Wyniki badań wskazują na znaczącą wyższość rehabilitacji z muzyką nad rehabilitację bez muzyki.
Personality disorders in adolescence.
Authors: Lenkiewicz Kamila , Srebnicki Tomasz , Bryńska Anita
Published: September 2015

Zaburzenia osobowości u dorosłych są bardzodobrze poznane i opisane w literaturze przedmiotu. Od ponad dwóch dekad prowadzona jest dyskusja dotycząca możliwości występowania zaburzeń osobowości u młodzieży. Część badaczy uważa, że w przypadku osób przed 18 rokiem życia można mówić jedynie o prekursorach zaburzeń osobowości w dorosłości, co znalazło swoje odzwierciedlenie w dostępnych klasyfikacjach diagnostycznych. U podłoża tego stanowiska leży przekonanie, że osobowość młodzieńcza nie jest ostatecznie ukształtowana. Wyklucza to spełnienie kryterium diagnostycznego dotyczącego trwałości objawów w czasie (utrzymanie się objawów zaburzeń osobowości przez co najmniej 2 lata). Zwolennicy innego podejścia argumentują, że nie można wszystkich problemów pacjentów w wieku rozwojowym rozumieć w kategoriach zaburzeń z osi I wg DSM i twierdzą, że możliwe jest diagnozowanie zaburzeń osobowości u młodzieży, a brak stałości i trwałości objawów w czasie jest wynikiem nie dostosowania narzędzi diagnostycznych do tej grupy wiekowej. Celem pracy jest dokonanie przeglądu aktualnego piśmiennictwa dotyczącego zaburzeń osobowości u młodzieży.
The association between self-image and defence mechanisms in a group of adolescent patients receiving psychiatric treatment
Authors: Treger Bartosz , Matusiak Feliks , Pilecki Maciej , Rogoż Monika
Published: September 2015

Cel

Celem badania była eksploracja zależności pomiędzy różnymi aspektami obrazu siebie, a mechanizmami obronnymi u osób w okresie adolescencji. W badaniu uwzględniono podział na grupy ze względu na podjęcie lub nie leczenia psychiatrycznego.

Metoda

Dane pochodzą od dwóch grup: klinicznej (30 osób), którą stanowili pacjenci młodzieżowi oddziału stacjonarnego Kliniki Psychiatrii Dzieci i Młodzieży Szpitala Uniwersyteckiego w Krakowie oraz kontrolnej (40 osób), która stanowiła młodzież ucząca się w liceum ogólnokształcącym. W badaniu użyto Kwestionariusza Obrazu Siebie autorstwa Offera oraz Kwestionariusza do oceny mechanizmów obronnych DSQ-40.

Wyniki

Badane grupy nie różniły się od siebie poziomem dojrzałości mechanizmów obronnych, pacjenci mieli statystycznie istotnie niższy obraz siebie niż młodzież z grupy kontrolnej. W obu grupach stosowaniu dojrzałych mechanizmów obronnych towarzyszył korzystny obraz siebie, natomiast używanie mniej dojrzałych mechanizmów obronnych związane było z niekorzystnym obrazem siebie. Porównanie grup ujawniło odmienne powiązania pomiędzy poszczególnymi aspektami obrazu siebie a stosowanymi mechanizmami obronnymi, w tym zwłaszcza mechanizmem projekcji. Ilość istotnych zależności była większa w grupie klinicznej.

Wnioski

W kontekscie zaniżonego obrazu siebie badanie ujawniło znacznie takich mechanizmów obronnych jak projekcja, acting out, somatyzacji czy fantazji schizoidalnych. Jednocześnie uzyskane wyniki wydają się potwierdzać hipotezę, że ocena dojrzałości mechanizmów obronnych w okresie adolescencji jest mniej jednoznaczna i tym samym mniej użyteczna klinicznie