bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population attitudes towards research use of health care registries: a population-based survey in Finland
Authors: Eloranta Katariina , Auvinen Anssi
Published: July 2015

Background

Register-based research can provide important and valuable contributions to public health research, but involves ethical issues concerning the balance of public health benefits and individual autonomy. This study aimed to describe the opinions of the Finnish public about these issues.

Methods

Mail survey questionnaire sent to a random sample of 1000 Finns.

Results

Participation proportion was 42 %, with 258 women and 160 men. The majority of the participants (61 %) were willing to provide their identifiable health information for research. Almost half of the participants (48 %) would, nevertheless, like to be informed when their information is used. A third (30 %) indicated no need for informed consent in register-based research, a similar proportion felt it should be obtained for every study, and 40 % thought it necessary in some situations, such as studies addressing a sensitive study topic. As for the best policy for obtaining consent, the majority (86 %) favoured broader consent methods: one consent covering a certain register or a research topic. Half of the participants (55 %) desired a required ethical evaluation from register-based research addressing a sensitive issue. Privacy protection was the most common concern for register-based research. More than half of the participants were either content with the current Finnish laws concerning register-based research or wanted to liberalize them to advance research.

Conclusions

The Finnish public is supportive of register-based research, but the requirement for informed consent divides opinions and many would at least like to be informed of the research use of their information.
Absorption, distribution and excretion of intravenously injected 68Ge/68Ga generator eluate in healthy rats, and estimation of human radiation dosimetry
Authors: Autio Anu , Virtanen Helena , Tolvanen Tuula , Liljenbäck Heidi , Oikonen Vesa , Saanijoki Tiina , Siitonen Riikka , Käkelä Meeri , Schüssele Andrea , Teräs Mika , Roivainen Anne
Published: July 2015

Background

This study evaluated the absorption, distribution, and excretion of Gallium-68 (68Ga) radionuclide after a single intravenous (i.v.) injection of 68Ge/68Ga generator eluate in healthy rats. Additionally, human radiation doses were estimated from the rat data.

Methods

Twenty-one female and 21 male Sprague-Dawley rats were i.v. injected with 47 ± 4 MBq of 68Ge/68Ga generator eluate, and the radioactivity of excised organs was measured using a gamma counter at 5, 30, 60, 120, or 180 min afterwards (n = 3–7 for each time point). The radioactivity concentration and plasma pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. Subsequently, the estimates for human radiation dosimetry were determined. Additionally, 4 female and 5 male rats were positron emission tomography (PET) imaged for in vivo visualization of biodistribution.

Results

68Ga radioactivity was cleared relatively slowly from blood circulation and excreted into the urine, with some retention in the liver and spleen. Notably, the 68Ga radioactivity in female genital organs, i.e., the uterus and ovaries, was considerable higher compared with male genitals. Extrapolating from the female and male rat 68Ga data, the estimated effective dose was 0.0308 mSv/MBq for a 57-kg woman and 0.0191 mSv/MBq for a 70-kg man.

Conclusions

The estimated human radiation burden of the 68Ge/68Ga generator eluate was slightly higher for females and similar for males as compared with somatostatin receptor ligands 68Ga-DOTANOC, 68Ga-DOTATOC, and 68Ga-DOTATATE, which is probably due to the retention in the liver and spleen. Our results revealed some differences between female and male rat data, which, at least in part, may be explained by the small sample size.
Joint inversion of gravity, magnetic, and petrophysical data — A case study from a gabbro intrusion in Boden, Sweden
Authors: Kamm Jochen , Lundin Ildikó Antal , Bastani Mehrdad , Sadeghi Martiya , Pedersen Laust B.
Published: July 2015

We have studied a gabbro intrusion in northern Sweden, using 3D inversion of airborne magnetic data, ground-based gravity data, and petrophysical measurements on outcrop samples. Gabbro intrusions are of interest because they are potential hosts of Cu-Ni and platinum group element mineralization. We developed a joint inversion algorithm and applied it to both potential-field data sets to obtain spatial distributions of density and magnetic susceptibility. The distributions were coupled through a nonrigidly enforced parameter relationship determined from the petrophysical samples. We managed the problem of balancing the influence of the two data sets by a novel adaptive reweighting scheme that enforced the discrepancy principle for each data set independently. We demonstrated in tests with synthetic data that neither individual nor joint inversions gave reliable estimates for the depth extension of the intrusive body, the near-surface details, or any complex geometrical features. However, the joint inversion improved the image of the interface between the intrusion and the surrounding rocks and revealed that the density and susceptibility models satisfied the observed petrophysical relationship, which, in turn, caused the structures in the models to align. The geometry of the intrusion was an intrinsic result of the inversion, based on the two distinct petrophysical trends for the gabbro and the surrounding rocks. The inferred shape was simple and concise, and was therefore a useful and testable hypothesis about the subsurface geology that was in agreement with both potential-field data sets and the petrophysical information.
Quality control and risk assessment of seismic profiles using area-depth-strain analysis
Authors: Groshong Richard H.
Published: July 2015

Area-depth-strain (ADS) analysis is a method for quantifying the structural style, balance, boundary displacement, detachment locations, and subseismic strain from a seismic profile, information that is particularly useful for quality control and risk analysis. The method is based on measurements of excess area, width, depth, and bed length of multiple horizons in a structure. A balanced structure is indicated by a well-defined line or lines on an area-depth graph. The structural uncertainty or risk of the interpretation is quantified using the fit of the data to the least-squares line(s), the match between the ADS detachment values and the interpreted geometry, and the magnitudes of the calculated strains. The method also clearly separates syntectonic (growth) units from nontectonic (pregrowth and no-growth) units. Different area-depth graph styles represent (1) classic detachment folds, fault-propagation folds, and ramp anticlines; (2) buckle-style detachment folds; and (3) fault-bend folds. The focus here is on the first two. Numerical models of the detachment fold styles show the similarities and differences between their geometries and ADS interpretations. Both styles are evaluated with seismic profiles across oilfield-scale structures. The Alpha/Bobo field, Nigeria, is a classic detachment fold, and an Angolan anticline is of the buckle style. Profiles across the Alpha/Bobo field before and after the first well was drilled demonstrate the improvement in the ADS interpretation of the lower detachment location and the reduction of layer-parallel strains in the revised profile. The Alpha/Bobo field and the Angola fold illustrate the distinction between growth and no-growth intervals and the interpretation of growth strata. Both fields show the use of predicted versus observed ADS results to suggest possible improvements to the interpretation.
Recognizing pitfalls of seismic structure and amplitude anomalies in Osprey field, Brunei
Authors: Zhu Fuping , Borbajo Renato , Darker Sebastian
Published: July 2015

The Osprey gas field was discovered in 1975 in the western offshore area of Brunei Darussalam. Two discovery wells penetrate the hanging wall of two separate growth faults and are associated with bright seismic amplitudes. Multiple thin reservoirs are separated by shales of 10 to a few hundred meters in thickness. In addition to seismic tuning of thin layers, there are many shallow gas clouds above these reservoirs, which cause significant and varying amount of push-down in seismic time data. Visualizing as seismic depth data reduces the amount of push-down but doesn’t remove it totally because, to date, the velocity model has been neither detailed nor accurate enough to fully constrain the seismic processing. Time-to-depth conversion includes significant uncertainties in the reservoir time interpretation, with only one well control per fault block. The shallow gas clouds also cause severe amplitude distortion at reservoir levels in the time and depth data, resulting in difficulties for discriminating gas distribution from stratigraphic variations or tuning effects. Furthermore, the shallow gas clouds cause false or enhanced rollover structures and artificial fault features adjacent to expressions of “real” features in the seismic data. Thus, estimates of reservoir spatial distribution and hydrocarbon volumes have large uncertainties. Recognizing these structure and amplitude pitfalls and handling them properly are important to improve reservoir understanding and volumetric estimations and to optimize development of the field. We have uncovered a variety of pitfalls and developed some mitigation methods. One method uses the seismic flat spot to correct the gas push-down effect, and the check-shot velocity was adjusted accordingly. This led to reduced uncertainty in the reservoir depth prognosis of the planned wells. Four wells were drilled in 2014, and the actual depth in all wells came out within only a 4-m difference, validating the correction method for shallow gas push-downs.
Sex-Specific and Estrous Cycle-Dependent Antidepressant-Like Effects and Hippocampal Akt Signaling of Leptin
Authors: Carrier Nicole , Wang Xuezhen , Sun Linshan , Lu Xin-Yun
Published: July 2015

Sex differences in the incidence of depression and antidepressant treatment responses are well documented. Depression is twice as common in women as in men. Recent studies indicate that low levels of leptin, an adipocyte-derived hormone, are associated with increased symptoms of depression in women. Leptin has been shown to produce antidepressant-like effects in male rodents. In the present study, we examined sex differences and estrous cycle variations in antidepressant-like responses to leptin. Leptin administration significantly reduced immobility, a putative measure of behavioral despair, in the forced swim test in intact female mice in the proestrus phase but not in the diestrus phase of the estrous cycle. Moreover, leptin administration stimulated Akt phosphorylation in the hippocampus of female mice in proestrus but not in diestrus, in correlation with its differential behavioral effects in these two phases of the cycle. Leptin-induced behavioral responses and stimulation of hippocampal Akt phosphorylation in female mice were abolished by ovariectomy. By contrast, the antidepressant-like effect of leptin in male mice was not affected by gonadectomy (castration). Pretreatment with 17β-estradiol restored sensitivity to the effects of leptin on behavior and hippocampal Akt phosphorylation in ovariectomized female mice. These results suggest leptin regulates depression-like behavior and hippocampal Akt signaling in a sex-specific and estrous cycle-dependent manner.
A developmental biologist’s journey to rediscover the Zen of plant physiology
Authors: Dinneny José R.
Published: July 2015

Physiology, which is often viewed as a field of study distinct from development, is technically defined as the branch of biology that explores the normal function of living organisms and their parts. Because plants normally develop continuously throughout their life, plant physiology actually encompasses all developmental processes. Viewing plant biology from a physiologist’s perspective is an attempt to understand the interconnectedness of development, form, and function in the context of multidimensional complexity in the environment. To meet the needs of an expanding human population and a degrading environment, we must understand the adaptive mechanisms that plants use to acclimate to environmental change, and this will require a more holistic approach than is used by current molecular studies. Grand challenges for studies on plant physiology require a more sophisticated understanding of the environment that plants grow in, which is likely to be at least as complex as the plant itself. Moving the lab to the field and using the field for inspiration in the lab need to be expressly promoted by the community as we work to apply the basic concepts learned through reductionist approaches toward a more integrated and realistic understanding of the plant.
Models and Algorithms for Stochastic and Robust Vehicle Routing with Deadlines
Authors: Adulyasak Yossiri , Jaillet Patrick
Published: July 2015

We consider the vehicle routing problem with deadlines under travel time uncertainty in the contexts of stochastic and robust optimization. The problem is defined on a directed graph where a fleet of vehicles is required to visit a given set of nodes and deadlines are imposed at a subset of nodes. In the stochastic vehicle routing problem with deadlines (SVRP-D), the probability distribution of the travel times is assumed to be known and the problem is solved to minimize the sum of probability of deadline violations. In the robust vehicle routing problem with deadlines (RVRP-D), however, the exact probability distribution is unknown but it belongs to a certain family of distributions. The objective of the problem is to optimize a performance measure, called lateness index, which represents the risk of violating the deadlines. Although novel mathematical frameworks have been proposed to solve these problems, the size of the problem that those approaches can handle is relatively small. Our focus in this paper is the computational aspects of the two solution schemes. We introduce formulations that can be applied for the problems with multiple capacitated vehicles and discuss the extensions to the cases of incorporating service times and soft time windows. Furthermore, we develop an algorithm based on a branch-and-cut framework to solve the problems. The experiments show that these approaches provide substantial improvements in computational efficiency compared to the approaches in the literature. Finally, we provide a computational comparison to evaluate the solution quality of the SVRP-D and the RVRP-D. The results show that the RVRP-D produces solutions that are very competitive to those obtained by the SVRP-D with a large number of scenarios, whereas much less sensitive to the distributional uncertainty.
Determination of the level of chromium and nickel in selected dietary supplements stimulating the immune system of the human body
Authors: Błoniarz Jadwiga , Zaręba Stanisław
Published: July 2015

An important group of dietary supplements are those preparations stimulating the defence mechanism of the human body. Often powdered plant raw materials or dry extracts from herbs are included in these dietary supplements, therefore these preparations, apart from being biologically active, can contain considerable quantities of the mineral matter. The purpose of our work was to assess the levels of chromium and nickel in selected dietary supplemental products produced in the form of capsules and pills (Acerola Plus, Cat's Claw, Maca, Maca 50 Plus, Spirulina, Spirulina Hawaian, Spirulina Pacifica, Vilcacora, Żeń-szeń from the “Herbalist's Plants of 'Herbapol' in Cracow”, Żeń-szeń – Ginseng from “KRKA”, Żeń-szeń supplied by Naturell, Żeń-szeń Korean from “Walmark”, Żeń-szeń supplied by “Vita-complex”) and in liquid preparations (Aloe - juice, Aloe vera drinking gel, Aloes Activ, Aloes Young, Bodymax Tonik, Ginsengin 400, Ginsenol, Noni - juice, Noni-vita, Noni Plus). Prepared Samples (3-5) of each of preparations were examined, in two parallel runs with analysis was carried out using a Pye Unicam SP 192 atomic absorption spectrometer, while applying specific determination parameters for given element. In supplements in the form of capsules and pills, the chromium content fluctuated, on average, from 0.33 μg/g (Acerola Plus), to 13.79 μg/g (Spirulina), and of nickel, from 0.16 μg/g (Acerola Plus), to 4.10 μg/g (Żeń-szeń (ginseng) - “Herbalist's Plants of 'Herbapol' in Cracow'). In the liquid dietary supplements that were tested, the values were as follows: the amounts of chromium were up to 0.12 μg/ml, while nickel was up to 0.27 μg/ml. In studied preparations, chromium and nickel levels diverged widely, depending on the form and composition of the dietary supplement. What is more, special predispositions of certain raw plant materials (marine alga - spirulina and of root of ginseng) were observed, for the accumulation of the determined micro-elements.
Comparison of two molecular docking programs: the accuracy of ligand pose prediction
Authors: Maciejewski Marcin , Targowska-Duda Katarzyna , Płazińska Anita ,   Department of Electronics Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Lublin University of Technology, Lublin, Poland
Published: July 2015

The study was perform to compare the output of two different docking programs (Molegro Vritual Docker and AutoDock) in simulation of ligand-receptor interactions for β1 and β2 adrenergic receptors. The exactness of the predicted ligand positions was estimated on the basis of the thirteen known crystallographic structures of the ligand-receptor complexes taken from the PDB database. Significant differences in docking results obtained by using both tested programs were observed. The overall RMSD-based scoring suggests that the procedures and algorithms implemented in AutoDock lead to slightly better results.
Effect of dental hygiene procedures on the state of dental hard tissues in women over 45 years of age
Authors: Piątek Dominika , Zubrzycka-Wróbel Joanna , Bachanek Teresa
Published: July 2015

Dental caries and periodontal diseases depend on the interaction of four factors: bacteria, substrate, medium and time. Thanks to proper dental hygiene procedures, some of these can be eliminated. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of oral hygiene procedures on the state of dental and periodontal hard tissues expressed using the DEF index, API and CPITN. In the population examined, we observed statistically significant (or close to being statistically significant) correlations between the parameters of oral cavity health and answers provided by respondents in the questionnaire. The oral hygiene procedures have a relevant impact on the state of dental and periodontal hard tissues, and affect the API, as well as DEF index in women over the age of 45.
Assessment of using additional means of oral hygiene on the state of the hard tissue of teeth in 12-13 year old children living in the Lublin province
Authors: Wróbel Rafał , Mielnik-Błaszczak Maria
Published: July 2015

The impact of additional means of oral hygiene (rinses, dental floss, dental irrigators, toothpicks) on the state of the hard tissue of teeth was assessed in 12-13 year old children living in the Lublin province. In order to accomplish this, clinical trials were conducted on 262 school-students aged 12-13 years from the Lublin macro-region. The study was conducted in randomly chosen primary schools, using standard clinical studies and surveys. The average number of DMFS, including its individual components D,M,F was determined. In addition, the authors also determined the OHIS index and DIS and CIS. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in the Oral Health Information Suite index (OHIS) between people who took additional measures in keeping oral hygiene, in comparison to those who did not (p=0.04). However, there were no statistically significant differences in the number of DMFS (including its individual components D,M,F), DIS, CIS and CPITN in children who declared using additional means of oral hygiene, as opposed to their peers who only brushed their teeth. The conducted studies showed the significant impact of using additional means of oral hygiene on the amount of plaque (OHIS index) among children.
Artificial tears and saliva substitutes
Authors: Chałas Renata , Rykwa Dorota , Łabno Paweł
Published: July 2015

An adequate amount of water in cells and tissues is a prerequisite for the proper functioning of every organism, and every organ within that organism. Its de fi ciency can cause serious clinical symptoms and subjective trouble some ail ments among patients. The authors present in this study, the most commonly used preparations in patients exhibiting dry eye and/or dry mouth.
Imperatorin – pharmacological effects and possible implication in pharmacotherapy
Authors: Ulazka Blanka , Glowniak Kazimierz , Sieniawska Elwira
Published: July 2015

In the presented work, the biological activity of coumarins, especially that of imperatorin, is described. The natural sources of coumarins and possible implication in pharmacotherapy is also shown.
Epidemiology, diagnosis and pharmacotherapy of head injuries in children treated in the Children's Clinical Hospital in Lublin
Authors: Sieniawski Daniel , Goniewicz Mariusz
Published: July 2015

Head injuries are one of the most common injuries in children. This work is a study of the causes and consequences of such injuries in children, and in so doing, the effects of age and seasons on the injury formation in children in Lublin were analyzed. In Lublin, head injuries accounted for 29.5 % of all treatments at the Children's Clinical Hospital in Lublin, and the majority of cases were reported in the months from April to June. Serious head injuries such as skull fractures predominated in patients over 14 years of age and among children between 1 and 2 years of age.
The anti-HIV, anti-tumor activity of allyl derivatives of 1,2,4-triazole-5-thione, 1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-ylamine and derivatives of bicyclic systems: 1,2,4-triazole[3,4-b]1,3-thiazine, 1,2,4-triazole[3,2-b]1,3-thiazine, thiazolo[2,3-c][1,2,4]triazole
Authors: Strzemecka Leokadia
Published: July 2015

he isomerization of 5H-3,7-diphenyl 6,7-dihydro-1,2,4-triazole[3,4-b] 1,3-thiazine (1) in a sealed tube, in the presence of aqueous Hbr, was carried out, and 7H-2,5-diphenyl-5,6-dihydro 1,2,4-triazole[3,2-b]1,3-thiazine (2) was obtained. The 7H-2,5-diphenyl 5,6-dihydro-1,2,4-triazole[3,2-b]1,3-thiazine (2), 5H-3-phenylmethyl-7-phenyl-6,7-dihydro-1,2,4-triazole[3,4-b]1,3-thiazine (3), the 3-phenylmethyl-6-methyl-5,6-dihydrothiazolo[2,3-c][1,2,4]triazole (4), 3-(o-hydroxy-phenyl-)6-methyl-5,6-dihydrothiazolo[2,3-c][1,2,4]triazole (5) were evaluated against HIV-1. The anti-tumor activities of 3-(pyridin-2-yl)-4-allyl-1,2,4-triazole-5-thione (6), 2N-cinnamyl-5-methyl-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl amine (7), 7H-2,5-diphenyl 5,6-dihydro-1,2,4-triazole[3,2-b]1,3-thiazine (2), 5H-3-phenylmethyl-7-phenyl-6,7-dihydro-1,2,4-triazole[3,4-b]1,3-thiazine (3), the 3-phenylmethyl-6-methyl-5,6-dihydrothiazolo[2,3-c][1,2,4]triazole (4), 3-(o-hydroxy-phenyl-)6-methyl-5,6-dihydrothiazolo[2,3-c][1,2,4]triazole (5) were tested against the IP P388 Leukemia 3PS31.
Knowledge of risk factors and practices linked to cervical cancer in women aged 25–55 years in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mukona Doreen , Ngesi Jennifer , Zvinavashe Mathilda
Published: July 2015

Background/Aims:

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, accounting for one third of all cancer cases in Zimbabwe. The World Health Organization suggests that the disease is generally very advanced at the time of diagnosis due to low uptake of Pap smear screening. A descriptive correlation design was employed in this study to examine and describe the relationship between knowledge of risk factors for cervical cancer and practices that prevent or predispose women aged 25–55 years to cervical cancer.

Methods:

Face-to-face structured interviews to assess the practices of women (n=80) who present with or are predisposed to cervical cancer. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used to analyse data.

Results:

There was a weak negative correlation (r=–0.84) between being aware of the risk factors for cervical cancer and engaging in practices that predispose women to cervical cancer, such as the use of vaginal herbs. In general, having a better knowledge of risk factors correlated with a slightly decreased propensity to engage in practices that predispose women to cervical cancer. Furthermore, a higher level of education did not translate to increased uptake of cervical cancer screening as 75 (93.8%) and 54 (67.5%) women indicated that they had not attended annual cervical cancer screening or postnatal cervical cancer screening, respectively.

Conclusions:

Knowledge of the risk factors for cervical cancer among participants was high (95%), despite poor practices and uptake of Pap smear screening. As cervical cancer is potentially preventable, a public health approach should be adopted to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this cancer.
Research Roundup
Authors: Cope Graham F
Published: July 2015

In this section, Graham Cope presents a synopsis of a selection of recently published articles of interest to nurses working in the field of cardiovascular nursing. The aim of this roundup is to provide a brief overview of the research papers selected. A full reference is provided for those who wish to take a look at the research in further detail
Houston, we've had a problem here: Tackling board governance
Authors: Deffenbaugh John
Published: July 2015

This is the first of four articles that will explore a range of problem areas in foundation trusts (FTs) that have caused the trust to have been identified by the FT regulator Monitor for special attention. These problem areas focus on the board's insight to its business, the information it has for decision making, the effectiveness of the non-executive challenge function, and how executives are held to account. This first article in the series tackles the board's insight to its business; these issues are equally applicable to governing bodies of commissioners. Three key issues are explored: the effectiveness of board strategy; the board's approach to system working; and the balance of central direction and control versus local autonomous action. The article explores the benefits of developing leadership down into the organisation for the board to operate at a strategic level. The article concludes with a set of actions that the board can implement so that its awareness of its business increases.
What will the small district general hospital look like in the future?
Authors: Mascie-Taylor Hugo , Britt Phil , Cooksley Gill , Henderson Alastair , Stephenson Terence
Published: July 2015

The Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust was de-licensed and services transferred to two other acute providers on 1 November 2014. The very troubled history of the trust is well documented, and it had been the subject of many reviews and reports, namely: Francis (2013) , Edwards (2012) , Colin-Thome (2009) and Alberti (2009) . While the future of the district general hospital (DGH) has been debated at length, few health economies have significantly altered the distribution of services or ‘clinical model’ of a DGH to secure the longer term sustainability of services. The Trust Special Administration process at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust has developed a clinical model which addresses many of the challenges faced by small hospitals. The TSA process involved a full economic review of a range of options including a value for money assessment, however this case study describes the approach taken to developing the clinical model, the outcome achieved and what can be learned by others.
The New Equivocal
Authors: Long Thomas H. , Lawce Helen , Durum Connie , Moore Stephen R. , Olson Susan B. , Gatter Ken , Troxell Megan L.
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2, ERBB2) testing is an important prognostic/predictive marker in breast cancer management, especially in selecting HER2-targeted treatment. American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)/College of American Pathologists (CAP) guidelines address HER2 status and were recently revised in 2013, replacing the 2007 version. For in situ hybridization interpretation, 2013 guidelines return to the prior threshold of a HER2/CEP17 ratio of 2.0 or greater for positive and eliminate 1.8 to 2.2 as the equivocal range. Also, the HER2 signal/nucleus ratio is accounted for, with 6.0 or greater for positive and 4.0 to less than 6.0 for equivocal, even in cases with a HER2/CEP17 ratio less than 2.0.

Methods:

With institutional review board approval, we reviewed our 2006 to 2012 HER2 fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) results and classified them according to both the 2007 and 2013 guidelines as negative, positive, or equivocal.

Results:

Of 717 HER2 FISH results, 55 (7.7%) changed category when reassessed by 2013 guidelines. Nineteen of 25 results in the 2007 equivocal category were reassigned as positive (n = 13) or negative (n = 6). Thirty-five previously negative cases became equivocal in the 2013 scheme, 12 of these with 1+ immunohistochemistry. The positive category increased from 71 to 85.

Conclusions:

The 2013 ASCO/CAP guidelines increased the number of HER2 FISH positive and equivocal results. The equivocal group is substantially different, posing a dilemma for clinical management.
Transiently Pink-Tinged Serum in a Patient With Multiple Myeloma and Anemia Undergoing Lenalidomide Treatment
Authors: Wedel Whitney , Sofronescu Alina G.
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

While in vitro hemolysis is a preanalytical interferent, in vivo hemolysis is a pathologic process requiring investigation. We present a case of an anemic patient with multiple myeloma undergoing chemotherapy with lenalidomide who had multiple serum samples drawn before and after chemotherapy treatment. Some of these samples showed hemolysis. This triggered further investigations to differentiate the cause of the hemolysis.

Methods:

Various laboratory tests and additional investigations were necessary to establish the root of the hemolytic process.

Results:

Multiple laboratory tests and a rigorous review of the samples, time of collection, and laboratory results revealed that only samples collected shortly after lenalidomide administration showed hemolysis. This indicates that the chemotherapeutic agent itself was most likely the proximate cause of the in vivo hemolysis in a non–immune-mediated manner.

Conclusions:

Upon administration, chemotherapeutic agents, such as lenalidomide, can immediately induce transient hemolysis, which can be visualized as transiently pink-tinged serum samples.
Minimal Coexpression of CD34+/CD56+ in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia Is Associated With Relapse
Authors: Maenhout Thomas M. , Moreau Elisabeth , Van haute Inge , Desmet Stefanie , Deeren Dries
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

Surface CD56 expression on leukemic cells in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APML) is considered an indicator of poorer outcome even in patients receiving conventional treatment.

Methods:

In the present case, at initial diagnosis, the hallmark phenotype of APML was found (strong CD33 and cytoplasmic MPO expression, absence of HLA-DR expression).

Results:

Both CD34 and CD56 antigen expression was considered negative. The patient relapsed 3 years after reaching complete remission, and the hallmark surface antigen combination for APML was again found. In contrast, the leukemic cells now clearly coexpressed CD34 and CD56. Retrospective analysis revealed the presence of small CD34+ and CD56+ populations at initial diagnosis (<20%).

Conclusions:

This case report suggests that the presence of a clone with minimal coexpression of CD34/CD56 in APML at initial diagnosis should not be neglected since it may be associated with earlier relapse.
Heterogeneity of Abnormal RUNX1 Leading to Clinicopathologic Variations in Childhood B-Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Knez Virginia M. , Carstens Billie J. , Swisshelm Karen L. , McGranahan Amy N. , Liang Xiayuan
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

Abnormalities of the RUNX1 gene in childhood B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) are manifested by ETV6-RUNX1 or RUNX1 amplification. A detailed comparison between the two regarding clinicopathologic features with genetic analysis has not been performed previously. This parallel study assessed how different RUNX1 abnormalities affect the clinicopathology of B-ALL.

Methods:

We compared clinicopathologic factors, including age, sex, WBC count, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) involvement, immunophenotype, and blast proliferation rate between B-ALL with RUNX1 amplification (10 cases) and B-ALL with ETV6-RUNX1 translocation (67 cases) in childhood B-ALL.

Results:

CD7 was often expressed in RUNX1 amplification but not in ETV6-RUNX1 (44% vs 0%, P = .0001) and appeared to correlate with CSF involvement in the former group (3/4 [75%]). CD13 was often detected in ETV6-RUNX1 with additional RUNX1 gain (38%) with an even higher frequency in double ETV6-RUNX1 translocation (77%), but was not detected in RUNX1 amplification (0%, P < .05). Children with RUNX1 amplification were older and more often CSF positive, while those with ETV6-RUNX1 were younger, more frequently had hyperleukocytosis, and had higher blast proliferation rates.

Conclusions:

RUNX1 copy numbers seem to be proportional to the age of B-ALL onset and the frequency of CSF involvement, while RUNX1 amplification vs translocation causes aberrant expression of CD7 and CD13, respectively.
“Drinking definitely wasn’t something that we’d seen anybody do”: the relevance of childhood experiences of family drinking for parenting strategies of alcohol socialisation
Authors: Holdsworth Clare , Laverty Louise , Robinson Jude
Published: July 2015

This article considers the significance of family context for intergenerational drinking practices. Socialisation approaches to drinking behaviours assume that people carry forward actions and ideals that are developed in formative settings during childhood, particularly the family, community or school. In this article, we consider how a more active interpretation of time as a creative force can challenge the deterministic principles of family socialisation. We consider how parents use their own childhood experiences of drinking not necessarily as a blueprint of how they should act towards their own children, but as accounts of how not to act and how they are able to reverse their childhood experiences. Our account of drinking across generations is based on an analysis of 21 biographical interviews with parents of teenage children and considers how their childhood experiences of alcohol and drinking influence their own parental strategies when regulating their children’s exposure to alcohol.
Der Coaching-Markt
Authors: Gross Peter-Paul , Stephan Michael
Published: July 2015

Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden Strukturdaten zum deutschen Coaching-Markt präsentiert, anhand von Tabellen und Abbildungen aus den Marburger Coaching-Studien wird die Popularität und den Verbreitungsgrad von Coaching-Dienstleistungen im deutschen Sprachraum belegt. Der vorliegende Beitrag beantwortet die folgenden Fragen: Wie entwickelt sich der deutsche Coaching-Markt? Wie wird Coaching in Organisationen eingesetzt? Welche Umsätze werden durch Coaching erwirtschaftet?
Techno-economic Analysis of a Wind-Diesel Hybrid Power System in the South Algeria
Authors: Allali Khaireddine , Azzag El-Bahi , Labar Hocine
Published: July 2015

The electrical energy is often produced with the help of diesel generators in isolated areas in the Saharan region. While the latter requiring relatively little investment because is generally expensive to exploit due to the transportation to remote areas adds extra cost, significant fuel consumption and relatively high maintenance cost, etc. Moreover, the electricity production by the diesel is ineffective, presents significant environmental risks. But these isolated areas have significant wind energy potential; which is good position for the exploitation of clean and sustainable wind energy. The use of wind-diesel power system is widely recommended especially to reduce fuel consumption and in this way to reduce system operating costs and environmental impact. The subject of this paper is to present the techno-economic analysis of a wind-diesel hybrid power system. In this context, the contribution envisaged with this research is to collaborate on the optimal design of a hybrid power system including a wind turbine generator, a diesel generator and an energy storage system for powering a continuous way an isolated site in the South Algerian installed power of 120 kW.This system has a high control strategy for the management of different power sources (wind, diesel, battery) that depending to weather conditions, especially wind speed values and the power demanded by the consumer load.
Steam gasification of wood biomass in a fluidized biocatalytic system bed gasifier: A model development and validation using experiment and Boubaker Polynomials Expansion Scheme BPES
Authors: Vecchione Luigi , Moneti Marta , Di Carlo Andrea , Savuto Elisa , Pallozzi Vanessa , Carlini Maurizio , Boubaker Karem , Longo Leonardo , Colantoni Andrea
Published: July 2015

One of the most important issues in biomass biocatalytic gasification is the correct prediction of gasification products, with particular attention to the Topping Atmosphere Residues (TARs). In this work, performedwithin the European 7FP UNIfHY project, we develops and validate experimentally a model which is able of predicting the outputs,including TARs, of a steam-fluidized bed biomass gasifier. Pine wood was chosen as biomass feedstock: the products obtained in pyrolysis tests are the relevant model input. Hydrodynamics and chemical properties of the reacting system are considered: the hydrodynamic approach is based on the two phase theory of fluidization, meanwhile the chemical model is based on the kinetic equations for the heterogeneous and homogenous reactions. The derived differentials equations for the gasifier at steady state were implemented MATLAB. Solution was consecutively carried out using the Boubaker Polynomials Expansion Scheme by varying steam/biomass ratio (0.5-1) and operating temperature (750-850°C).The comparison between models and experimental results showed that the model is able of predicting gas mole fractions and production rate including most of the representative TARs compounds
Some questions related to the Bergman projection in symmetric domains
Authors: Bonami Aline , Nana Cyrille
Published: July 2015

This is essentially a survey on tube domains over irreducible symmetric cones or their bounded realizations. It includes the fact that in rank 2 these inequalities have now been proved for the whole range of possible exponents
Uncertainty principles and characterization of the heat kernel for certain differential-reflection operators
Authors: Ben Saïd Salem , Boussen Asma , Sifi Mohamed
Published: July 2015

We prove various versions of uncertainty principles for a certain Fourier transform ℱ
Investigation of the Thermoelectric Power Factor of KOH-Treated PEDOT:PSS Dispersions for Printing Applications
Authors: Stepien Lukas , Roch Aljoscha , Schlaier Sarah , Dani Ines , Kiriy Anton , Simon Frank , Lukowicz Marian v. , Leyens Christoph
Published: July 2015

This work studies the modification of commercially available dispersions of intrinsically conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS with a strong base, KOH. It is concluded that addition of base derives a dedoping of the PEDOT chain and increase Seebeck coefficient from 15 µV/K to 90 µV/K. Supportive UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy was used for tracking the doping level of the polymer. A surface morphology study of the dedoped PEDOT:PSS films was monitored by SEM. It was shown that if KOH is used in excess with respect to the acid component of PEDOT:PSS dispersions, it segregates at the surface forming crystallites. They, however could be easily removed by methanol rinsing without destroying the sample integrity. After material modification, a dispenser-printed polymer unileg-TEG with 61 unicouples was fabricated by printing. The TEG in form of 253 mm-long stripe shows a flexible behavior. At 90 K temperature difference a resulting power output of ~ 100 nW could be measured. We suggest that the low power output is due to a high internal generator resistance.
Turner syndrome in Albania and the efficacy of its treatment with growth hormone
Authors: Hoxha Petrit , Babameto-Laku Anila , Vyshka Gentian , Gjoka Klodiana , Minxuri Dorina , Myrtaj Elira , Çakërri Luljeta
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was the evaluation of Turner syndrome inside the Albanian population, its clinical, cytological and genetic characteristics, the accompanying pathologies, and the efficacy of the treatment with the growth hormone. We performed a retrospective analysis of 59 patients suffering from this syndrome (aging from 5 to 23 years old). The diagnosis of female patients suffering from Turner syndrome is delayed, with a mean age at the moment of diagnosis of 13.74 years (5–23 years). The main reason for seeking medical advice was the growth retardation or a delayed puberty. Available data for 52 patients showed that the most frequent accompanying pathologies were the following: thyroid autoimmune disorders (59%), cardiovascular anomalies (43%), renal pathologies (41%), hearing impairment (4.3%) and hypertension (3.3%). Follow-up for the growth rate was possible for 52 patients out of the total of 59 patients. Twenty-five of the female patients suffering Turner syndrome and forming part of our study sample were treated with growth hormone for a period averaging 3 years and 4 months. A variety of reasons was identified as responsible for the missed treatment in 27 patients. We saw an enhanced growth (in terms of body height) within the treated subgroup, when compared with the untreated subgroup (27 patients), especially during the first 3 years of the follow-up. No side effects of this treatment were reported. Both groups of patients initiated as well a sexual hormone therapy (estrogens and progesterone) for inducing puberty at the age of 12 years. Further work is needed for an early diagnosis of this syndrome, the prompt treatment with growth hormone and the monitoring of accompanying disorders. This will ensure a better quality of life and an improvement of the longevity of patients suffering from the Turner syndrome.
Effect of serum cholesterol on bone mineral density in normal-weight children and adolescents
Authors: Lim Han Hyuk
Published: July 2015

We investigated whether there is a relationship between serum cholesterol and bone mineral density (BMD), independent of BMI in children and adolescents. This study was based on data from the KNHANES 2009–2010. The data for 1557 children and adolescents were analyzed and classified into three groups: underweight, normal-weight, and overweight. We analyzed the relationships between serum cholesterol and BMD z-scores. Whole body BMD z-score was revealed as an inverse association with the serum cholesterol quartile in only normal-weight group (p=0.008). Serum cholesterol level correlated more inversely with BMD z-score in normal-weight boys (
Kocher-Debré-Semelaigne syndrome with rhabdomyolysis and increased creatinine
Authors: Cimbek Emine Ayça , Şen Yaşar , Yuca Sevil Arı , Çam Demet , Gür Celal , Peru Harun
Published: July 2015

Association of Kocher-Debré-Semelaigne syndrome–a myopathy of hypothyroidism in childhood characterized by muscular hypertrophy, with rhabdomyolysis is very rare. We present a case of Kocher-Debré-Semelaigne syndrome with rhabdomyolysis secondary to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. He had muscular symptoms simulating poly/dermatomyositis, massively elevated creatine kinase (CK) levels and high creatinine levels. All of the findings reversed on treatment of hypothyroidism. The response to the therapy strongly suggested that Kocher-Debré-Semelaigne (KDS) syndrome was the underlying etiology. Serum thyroid- stimulating hormone levels should be routinely determined in all patients with muscular symptoms and/or elevation of CK and creatinine, keeping KDS syndrome in mind.
Investigation of Thermoelectric Properties of P-Type GaN Thin Films
Authors: Kucukgok Bahadir , Hussain Babar , Zhou Chuanle , Ferguson Ian T. , Lu Na
Published: July 2015

GaN and its alloys are promising candidates for high temperature thermoelectric (TE) materials due to their high Seebeck coefficient and high thermal and mechanical stability. Moreover, these materials can overcome the toxicity concern of current Te-based TE materials, such as Bi2Te3 and PbTe. These materials have recently shown a higher Seebeck coefficient than that of SiGe in high temperature region because their large bandgap characteristic eliminates the bipolar conduction. In this study, we report the room temperature thermoelectric properties of p-type Mg doped GaN, grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) on sapphire substrate with various carrier concentrations. Undoped and n-type GaN are also incorporated with p-type GaN films to make comparison. The structural, optical, electrical, and thermal properties of the samples were examined by X-ray diffraction, photoluminescence, van der Pauw hall-effect, and thermal gradient methods, respectively. The Seebeck coefficient ranging from 710-900µV/K at room temperature of Mg: GaN were observed, which further indicated their potential TE applications.
Systematic Studies of Periodically Nanoporous Si Films for Thermoelectric Applications
Authors: Hao Qing , Xu Dongchao , Zhao Hongbo
Published: July 2015

As the major heat carriers in dielectrics and semiconductors, phonons are strongly scattered by boundaries and interfaces at the nanoscale, which can lead to a significantly reduced lattice thermal conductivitykL. In recent years, such phonon size effects have been used to enhance the thermoelectric performance of various nanostructured materials. With dramatically reducedkLand bulk-like electrical properties, high thermoelectric performance has been demonstrated for nanoporous Si films at room temperature. Despite these encouraging results, however, challenges still exist in the theoretical explanation of the observed lowkLvalues. Existing studies mainly attribute the observed lowkLto phononic effects and/or amorphous pore edges. These two effects can be separated when the specific heat of the film can be measured along withkLto provide more insight into the phonon dispersion modification. In this work, both the specific heat andkof a suspended nanoporous Si film is extracted from the 3ωmeasurements. The result is compared to the reportedkLvalues of various porous Si films. The influence of employed phonon mean free path spectrum on the data analysis is discussed.
Pai pobre, filho pobre? Uma análise da mobilidade intergeracional de renda na coorte de nascimentos de 1982, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Tejada Cesar Augusto Oviedo , Bertoldi Andréa D. , Carraro André , Ribeiro Felipe Garcia , Motta Janaína Vieira dos Santos , Barros Fernando Celso , Horta Bernardo Lessa , Barros Aluísio J. D.
Published: July 2015

O Brasil é apontado como um dos países com as menores mobilidades intergeracionais de renda do mundo. O principal objetivo do artigo é analisar a mobilidade intergeracional de renda na coorte de nascimentos de 1982 em Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. São utilizados dois métodos de estimação: elasticidade intergeracional de renda e regressões quantílicas para mensuração de possíveis heterogeneidades na mobilidade intergeracional em função dos diferentes níveis de renda dos pais no passado. Os resultados mostram uma mobilidade intergeracional de renda relativamente alta para os padrões brasileiros. A explicação reside, sobretudo, no fato de terem sido usados dados de renda dos filhos em idade jovem, em torno de 23 anos. As análises das regressões quantílicas indicam que a maior mobilidade social acontece nas camadas sociais intermediárias. Os resultados encontrados reforçam a existência de dois polos opostos de armadilhas: armadilha da pobreza e da riqueza.