bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Early Postnatal NSAID Treatment on Nephrogenesis in Wistar Rats
Authors: Bueters Ruud R. G. , Klaasen Annelies , Maicas Nuria , Florquin Sandrine , van den Heuvel Lambertus P. , Schreuder Michiel F.
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

Prematurely born children with patent ductus arteriosus are treated with ibuprofen or indomethacin, which may inhibit kidney development. We determined whether clinical doses affected kidney development and function, with or without extrauterine growth retardation.

METHODS

Wistar rats were cross‐fostered in normal food (NF) or food restricted (FR) litters at postnatal day (PND) 2. On PND 3 to 4, three doses of 0.9% NaCl, 0.1 mg/kg indomethacin, or 10 mg/kg ibuprofen were administered via intraperitoneal injection with 12‐hr intervals. Kidneys were evaluated for apoptosis, proliferation, and gene expression at PND 8; stereological assessment of nephron number at PND 35; and clinical pathology and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin at 4 and 9 months. Blood pressure was measured at the ages of 4, 6, and 9 months.

RESULTS

NF and FR bodyweight differed from PND 3 onwards, ranging from 16.5 g at weaning (p < 0.001) to 39 g at necropsy (p = 0.019). Kidney proliferation/apoptosis ratios were 7:1 and 3:1 (p = 0.001), respectively and different expression of Wnt4 (0.7x), Oat1 (1.3x), Nphs1 (1.7x), and Aqp4 (1.3x) was noted (but its biological relevance doubted). Nephron numbers were decreased by 12% (p = 0.109) in the ibuprofen‐NF group and 7.5% (p = 0.237) in FR groups. This coincided with a tendency to increased neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin at 9 months. No differences were noted in electrolytes, creatinine, or urea clearance. No valid blood pressure results could be obtained.

CONCLUSION

A clinical Ibuprofen dose showed potential to inhibit kidney development in neonatal rats. FR did not modulate these effects
Associating portal embolization and artery ligation to induce rapid liver regeneration in staged hepatectomy
Authors: Dupré A , Hitier M , Peyrat P , Chen Y , Meeus P , Rivoire M
Published: September 2015

Background

Insufficient volume of the future liver remnant (FLR) is a major cause of unresectability in patients with bilobar colorectal liver metastases (CLM). The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the novel associating portal embolization and artery ligation (APEAL) technique before extended right hepatectomy during a two-stage procedure for CLM.

Methods

All patients who had undergone extended right hepatectomy during two-stage surgery for CLM between 2012 and 2014 were identified retrospectively from a prospectively maintained database. In the first stage, right portal vein embolization, partial right hepatic artery ligation and devascularization of segment IVb along the round ligament without parenchymal transection were associated with clearance of the FLR and/or primary tumour resection. Liver volumetry was performed using OsiriX software on postoperative day (POD) 7 and 30.

Results

Ten patients underwent the APEAL procedure. During the first stage, APEAL was combined with colorectal resection in seven patients. The median (range) interval between the two stages was 45 (31–71) days. The FLR volume increased from 327 (214–537) cm3 before surgery to 590 (508–1072) cm3 on POD 7 and 701 (512–1018) cm3 on POD 30. This corresponded to a FLR regeneration rate of 104 (42–185) and 134 (53–171) per cent respectively. There were no deaths. The overall morbidity rate was 60 per cent (6 of 10) after each procedure, with severe morbidity occurring in two and three of ten patients after the first and second procedures respectively.

Conclusion

APEAL induces fast, safe, reproducible and effective FLR growth when an extended right hepatectomy is scheduled in patients with multiple bilobar CLM.
Quality-of-life outcomes following pelvic exenteration for primary rectal cancer
Authors: Radwan R W , Codd R J , Wright M , Fitzsimmons D , Evans M D , Davies M , Harris D A , Beynon J
Published: September 2015

Background

For patients with locally advanced tumours and contiguous organ involvement, pelvic exenteration (PE) can offer cure with relatively low mortality. The literature surrounding quality of life (QoL) in patients undergoing PE is limited. Furthermore, there are no matched comparisons of QoL between abdominoperineal resection (APR) and PE. The aim of this study was to compare differences in long-term QoL for patients with primary rectal cancer undergoing APR versus PE.

Methods

All patients who underwent either APR or PE between January 2011 and December 2012 were identified. Patients were asked to complete the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 questionnaire before surgery and 2 weeks afterwards. Subsequent questionnaires were requested at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after operation.

Results

A total of 110 patients were included in the study (54 APR, 56 PE). Median length of stay following operation was 11 (range 3–70) days for APR and 15 (7–84) days for PE. Patients undergoing PE experienced lower physical (mean score 42 versus 56; P = 0·010), role (20 versus 33; P = 0·047), emotional (57 versus 73; P = 0·010) and social (34 versus 52; P = 0·005) functional levels 2 weeks after surgery. Long-term dyspnoea and financial worries were experienced only after PE. Patients undergoing PE had a lower overall global health status at 2 weeks after operation (40 versus 53; P = 0·012). Levels were comparable between groups from 3 months after surgery.

Conclusion

QoL recovery following PE was equivalent to that after APR alone. Patients should not be denied exenterative surgery based on perceived poor QoL.
Did student‐athlete have chance to state her case?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: September 2015

Jolie Krooks was accepted onto the Haverford College women's softball team. Prior to enrolling, she advised Coach Jennifer Ward that she had an eating disorder.
Update your policies, procedures to be in line with Clery Act, VAWA amendments
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: September 2015

Does your campus fully comply with the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act and the Clery Act? Many campus safety professionals questioned what VAWA and its updates to Clery mean for their campuses. The Department of Education recently released a “Dear Colleague Letter” to clarify what the regulations require.
Relationships were critical following the Boston Marathon bombing
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: September 2015

NASHVILLE, TENN. — “It just wasn't supposed to happen,” said John DiFava, police chief at the Massachusetts Institute for Technology. That's how he described the death of Sean Collier, an officer in his department killed by Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the Boston Marathon bombers.
Hypothalamic energy metabolism is impaired by doxorubicin independently of inflammation in non‐tumour‐bearing rats
Authors: Antunes Barbara M. M. , Lira Fabio Santos , Pimentel Gustavo Duarte , Neto José Cesar Rosa , Esteves Andrea Maculano , Oyama Lila Missae , de Souza Cláudio Teodoro , Gonçalves Cinara Ludvig , Streck Emilio Luiz , Rodrigues Bruno , Santos Ronaldo Vagner dos , de Mello Marco Túlio
Published: September 2015

We sought to explore the effects of doxorubicin on inflammatory profiles and energy metabolism in the hypothalamus of rats. To investigate these effects, we formed two groups: a control (C) group and a Doxorubicin (DOXO) group. Sixteen rats were randomly assigned to either the control (C) or DOXO groups. The hypothalamus was collected. The levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, TNF‐α and energy metabolism (malate dehydrogenase, complex I and III activities) were analysed in the hypothalamus. The DOXO group exhibited a decreased body weight (p < 0.01). Hypothalamic malate dehydrogenase activity was reduced when compared with control (p < 0.05). In addition, pro‐inflammatory cytokine levels were unchanged. Therefore, our results demonstrate that doxorubicin leads to an impairment of \hypothalamic energy metabolism, but do not affect the inflammatory pathway. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Significance paragraph

The hypothalamus is a central organ that regulates a great number of functions, such as food intake, temperature and energy expenditure, among others. Doxorubicin can lead to deep anorexia and metabolic chaos; thus, we observed the effect of this chemotherapeutic drug on the inflammation and metabolism in rats after the administration of doxorubicin in order to understand the central effect in the hypothalamus. Drug treatment by doxorubicin is used as a cancer therapy; however the use of this drug may cause harmful alterations to the metabolism. Thus, further investigations are needed on the impact of drug therapy over the long term.
Surface Science Approaches for the Preparation of Alumina‐Supported Hydrotreating Catalysts
Authors: Bara Cédric , Devers Elodie , Digne Mathieu , Lamic‐Humblot Anne‐Félicie , Pirngruber Gerhard D. , Carrier Xavier
Published: September 2015

New developments and breakthroughs in the design of hydrotreating (HDT) catalysts for complying with fuel specifications and reduced sulfur contents ask for a continuous improvement in the molecular scale description of the active phase both at the oxide and sulfide states. HDT catalysts are mainly based on alumina‐supported molybdenum nanophases and the present contribution is dedicated to review the surface science approaches that have helped gain a molecular‐scale insight into the structure of the active‐phase (mainly molybdenum) and the role of metal‐support (mainly alumina) interactions through the use of well‐defined surfaces and surface sensitive analysis techniques. The main focus of this Review is placed on model systems that can bridge the gap with industrial catalysts, that is, oxide‐supported active phases prepared in aqueous conditions, as opposed to more traditional surface‐science studies that consider metal‐supported nanophases prepared in UHV conditions. The synthesis and structure of well‐defined alumina surfaces (thin films and single crystal wafers) is first presented before discussing aqueous‐deposition of Mo precursors on flat surfaces. The detailed role of the oxide support is then addressed with an emphasis on the genesis and structure of the MoS2 phase namely sulfidation rate, stacking, and orientation.
Fast Photoresponse and Long Lifetime UV Photodetectors and Field Emitters Based on ZnO/Ultrananocrystalline Diamond Films
Authors: Saravanan Adhimoorthy , Huang Bohr‐Ran , Lin Jun‐Cheng , Keiser Gerd , Lin I‐Nan
Published: September 2015

We have designed photodetectors and UV field emitters based on a combination of ZnO nanowires/nanorods (ZNRs) and bilayer diamond films in a metal–semiconductor–metal (MSM) structure. The ZNRs were fabricated on different diamond films and systematic investigations showed an ultra‐high photoconductive response from ZNRs prepared on ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) operating at a lower voltage of 2 V. We found that the ZNRs/UNCD photodetector (PD) has improved field emission properties and a reduced turn‐on field of 2.9 V μm−1 with the highest electron field emission (EFE) by simply illuminating the sample with ultraviolet (UV) light. The photoresponse (Iphoto/Idark) behavior of the ZNRs/UNCD PD exhibits a much higher photoresponse (912) than bare ZNRs (229), ZNRs/nanocrystalline diamond (NCD; 518), and ZNRs/microcrystalline diamond (MCD; 325) under illumination at λ=365 nm. A photodetector with UNCD films offers superior stability and a longer lifetime compared with carbon materials and bare ZNRs. The lifetime stability of the ZNRs/UNCD‐based device is about 410 min, which is markedly superior to devices that use bare ZNRs (92 min). The ZNRs/UNCD PD possesses excellent photoresponse properties with improved lifetime and stability; in addition, ZNRs/UNCD‐based UV emitters have great potential for applications such as cathodes in flat‐panel displays and microplasma display devices.
Is social entrepreneurship a greenfield for foreign direct investment? A conceptual and empirical analysis
Authors: Paniagua Jordi , Mas‐Tur Alicia , Sapena Juan
Published: September 2015

Building on legitimacy and social strategy theories, this research proposes a conceptual and empirical framework that links social entrepreneurial activity (SEA) with foreign direct investment (FDI). Investing in foreign countries with a high degree of SEA contributes to increasing foreign investors’ legitimacy. Additionally, firms may consider SEA as a constituent of their social strategy. A key contribution of this study is the comprehensive conceptual framework used to analyze the link between social entrepreneurship and international business. The second key contribution is the econometric analysis of SEA's effect on greenfield FDI, foreign employment, and foreign projects. The estimation results of the gravity equation suggest that social entrepreneurship fosters FDI. This research offers theoretical insight on legitimacy theory's relevance in explaining the link between FDI and SEA. Copyright © 2015 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental Infiltration Tests on Existing Permeable Pavement Surfaces
Authors: Cipolla Sara Simona , Maglionico Marco , Stojkov Irena
Published: September 2015

This study describes a field investigation that compares water infiltration rates of eight permeable parking lots located in Rimini City, Italy. In the experiment a single ring infiltrometer test was used to analyze the influence of the surface type, filling material, location in the parking stall, pavement age, and antecedent dry weather days on the infiltration capacity of the pavements. The results show that the permeability values are mostly affected by the position of the ring in the parking lot, filling material, and surface type rather than by the antecedent dry weather time and pavement age. The surface infiltration rate of the eight pavements ranges between a minimum of 123 mm/h (site 6, permeable interlocking concrete paver, 2005) and a maximum of 20 137 mm/h (site 4, concrete grid paver, 2005), exceeding the 97.2 mm/h minimum design infiltration rate required by selected European authorities. The results also show that compaction decreases the infiltration rate. Therefore, the study could be useful in setting the standard test procedure to evaluate the performance of permeable pavements over time in the Mediterranean climate.
Fluorescent Boron Complexes of 25‐Oxa­smaragdyrins Containing Axial Silyloxy Groups
Authors: Ganapathi Emandi , Chatterjee Tamal , Ravikanth Mangalampalli
Published: September 2015

A series of fluorescent BIII complexes of meso‐triaryl‐substituted 25‐oxasmaragdyrins containing axial silyloxy groups were prepared in 80–85 % yields by treating B(OH)2 complexes of meso‐triaryl 25‐oxasmaragdyrins with different alkyl/aryl chlorosilanes in toluene in the presence of base at reflux temperature followed by simple column chromatographic purification. The eight axially silyloxy‐substituted BIII complexes of smaragdyrins were freely soluble in common organic solvents and were characterized by HRMS, 1D and 2D NMR, absorption, fluorescence and electrochemical studies, as well as by X‐ray crystallography in the case of one of the complexes. The crystal structure revealed that the smaragdyrin macrocycle is almost planar and that the –OSiMe3 groups on BIII are oriented in the up and down directions relative to the macrocycle. The absorption studies indicated that the axially silyloxy‐substituted BIII smaragdyrins are strongly absorbing in the 710–440 nm region with absorption coefficients higher than those of B(OH)2‐smaragdyrin complexes. The silylation of –OH groups at the BIII centre in the BIII smaragdyrin complex results in five‐ to sixfold enhancements in the fluorescence quantum yields and in longer singlet state lifetimes. Thus, the axial silyloxy BIII complexes are strongly fluorescent with quantum yields in the 0.65–0.78 range and singlet state lifetimes in the 4.3–4.9 ns range. The complexes are highly stable under redox conditions and each exhibit two reversible oxidations and one reversible reduction.
An Approach to Monitoring and Evaluation of Institutional Capacity for Adaptation to Climate Change: The Case of the United Kingdom's Investment in Ethiopia's Climate‐Resilient Green Economy
Authors: Adler Rebecca , Wilson Kirsty , Abbot Patrick , Blackshaw Ursula
Published: September 2015

The design and implementation of evaluation methods assessing the impact of the United Kingdom's climate finance on the Ethiopian Government's institutional capacity for implementation of the national climate change strategy is described. The article focuses on capacity‐assessment tools that support evidence‐based self‐assessments of progress toward politically determined targets. We highlight the strengths of the capacity‐assessment tools in building ownership of monitoring data among implementers, providing rapid feedback to inform management of development programs, and the potential to create windows of opportunity to tackle long‐standing institutional blockages. We also note challenges in relation to the skills required to implement the evaluation methods effectively, the limitations in attributing change to a particular intervention, and potential biases. Finally, we explain the scope for use of the tools in other contexts.
What Indicates Improved Resilience to Climate Change? A Learning and Evaluative Process Developed From a Child‐Centered, Community‐Based Project in the Philippines
Authors: Chong Joanne , Gero Anna , Treichel Pia
Published: September 2015

Community‐based climate change adaptation and resilience (CCAR) projects increasingly recognize that climate change impacts are localized, requiring context‐specific interventions. Conventional approaches to monitoring and evaluation (M&E) are, however, ill‐suited to understanding the impact of such CCAR interventions. To address this gap, research based on a child‐centered community‐based adaptation project in the Philippines has developed a practical and replicable process for developing evidence‐based, local‐level indicators of effective adaptation. The process assesses how the project influenced children's knowledge, advocacy efforts, and impact on policy and practice. Evidence was generated from qualitative inquiry, primarily through focus group discussions with children. The analysis included scalar ratings to help to meet quantitative reporting requirements. A detailed guide was developed for implementing agencies to systematically understand, measure, and communicate evidence. The process can also be translated to community development projects seeking to evaluate change under uncertainty.
Understanding the impact of a clinical care pathway for major head and neck cancer resection on postdischarge healthcare utilization
Authors: Dautremont Jonathan F. , Rudmik Lucas R. , Nakoneshny Steven C. , Chandarana Shamir P. , Matthews T. Wayne , Schrag Christiaan , Fick Gordon H. , Dort Joseph C.
Published: September 2015

Background

The purposes of this study were to explore the association of a postoperative clinical care pathway for patients undergoing major head and neck surgery with microvascular reconstruction on postdischarge health care utilization and cost and to compares a nonpathway group (n = 60) to a prospective, pathway‐managed group (n = 54). Our primary purpose was to understand whether pathway‐managed patients used postdischarge health care resources differently than patients managed without a care pathway.

Methods

Health care utilization data (counts and costs) were collected for the 3 months after discharge. Differences in utilization were compared using Poisson regression. The null hypothesis was that there were no differences in utilization between the pathway and nonpathway groups.

Results

Pathway patients had fewer postdischarge encounters in 2 of 4 sectors. Readmission costs were significantly less in the pathway group only.

Conclusion

A postoperative inpatient clinical care pathway in patients with head and neck cancer is associated with decreased health care utilization and inpatient costs in the 3 months after discharge. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1216–E1220, 2016
Optimal Control of Heteroscedastic Macroeconomic Models
Authors: Polito Vito , Spencer Peter
Published: September 2015

This paper analyses the implications of heteroscedasticity for optimal macroeconomic policy and welfare. We find that changes in the variance structure driven by exogenous processes like generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH) affect welfare but not the optimal feedback rule. However, changes in the variance structure driven by state‐dependent processes affect both. We also derive certainty‐equivalent transformations of state‐dependent volatility models that allow standard quadratic dynamic programming algorithms to be employed to study optimal policy. These results are illustrated numerically using a reduced‐form model of the US economy in which changes in volatility are driven by a GARCH process and the rate of inflation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrastructural investigation on fibroblast interaction with collagen scaffold
Authors: Masci Valentina Laghezza , Taddei Anna Rita , Gambellini Gabriella , Giorgi Franco , Fausto Anna Maria
Published: September 2015

Collagen‐based scaffolds are used as temporary or permanent coverings to help wound healing. Under natural conditions, wound healing is affected by such factors as cell types, growth factors and several components of the extracellular matrix. Due to the complexity of the cell‐to‐matrix interaction, many cell based mechanisms regulating wound healing in vivo are not yet properly understood. However, the whole process can be partially simulated in vitro to determine how cells interact with the collagen scaffold in relation to such features as physico‐chemical properties, matrix architecture and fiber stability. Under these conditions, cell migration into the collagen matrix can be easily assessed and causally correlated with these features. In this study, we aimed at providing a structural analysis of how NIH3T3 fibroblasts migrate and proliferate in vitro when seeded on a native type‐I collagen scaffold. To this end, samples were collected at regular time intervals and analyzed by light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Through this experimental approach we demonstrate that collagen is gradually frayed into progressively thinner fibrils as fibroblasts migrate into the matrix, embrace the collagen fibers with long filopodia and form large intracellular vacuoles. A key role in this process is also played by microvesicles shed from the fibroblast plasma membrane and spread over long distances inside the collagen matrix. These observations indicate that a native type‐I equine collagen provides favorable conditions for simulating collagen processing in vitro and eventually for unraveling the mechanisms controlling cell uptake and intracellular degradation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 272–282, 2016.
Physicochemical Interaction of ZnO Fine Particles with 5‐Mono‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐10,15,20‐Triphenylporphyrin
Authors: Khan Abbas , Zada Amir , Humayun Muhammad
Published: September 2015

This study deals with an investigation on the preparation and physicochemical interactions of ZnO nanoparticles with acid functionalized porphyrin [5‐mono‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐10,15,20‐triphenylporphyrin (CPTPP)] for photovoltaic applications in a detailed manner. Zinc acetate and sodium hydroxide were used as the starting materials for the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles at 60 °C in an alcoholic medium. The freshly prepared fine particles were then functionalized with CPTPP. Both the virgin and pregnant ZnO particles were characterized by using UV‐Visible spectrophotometry (UV), fluorescence emission (PL), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The band gap energy obtained for ZnO particles, having a value of 3.47 eV, shows significant quantum confinement effect and enhanced photophysical activity. FTIR analysis of the doped ZnO nanostructures showed the presences of some chemical species. SEM analysis revealed a clear change in the surface morphologies of undoped ZnO. The average crystallite size of nanoparticles, calculated from XRD peaks, was found in the nano regime. The lattice parameters calculated for ZnO nanocrystals were also found in good agreement with those given in the literature. From the enhancement in the red shift of the UV‐Vis spectra, it is concluded that hybridization of acid functionalized porphyrin can cause a significant expansion in the total absorption region of ZnO semiconductor for photovoltaic applications.
Experimental Investigation on Binary Phase Diagram of the Thermotropic Phase Transitions Compounds (n‐CnH2n+1R3)2ZnCl4
Authors: Wu Kezhong , Sun Xiaolong , Duan Zhongyuan , Ma Jing , Chen Lei , Ruan Bei
Published: September 2015

The thermotropic phase transitions compounds (n‐CnH2n+1R3)2ZnCl4 as well as a series of their binary mixtures were prepared by a solution reflux method from their ethanol solutions. The experimental subsolidus binary phase diagram of [n‐C18H37N(CH3)3]2ZnCl4‐[n‐(C18H37)2N(CH3)2]2ZnCl4 is constructed over the entire composition range by differential scanning calorimetry(DSC) and X‐ray. Experi‐ mental results indicate one stable intermediate phase [n‐C18H37N(CH3)3] [n‐(C18H37)2N(CH3)2]ZnCl4 at WC18C3Zn %=59.75 %, and two invariant three phase equilibria, which shows two eutectoid temperatures: Te1 at 310±1 K for eutectoid point WC18C3Zn %=36.24 %, Te2 at 313±1 K for eutectoid point WC18C3Zn %=80.17 %. These three noticeable solid‐solution ranges are α‐phase at the left, ⇓‐phase at the right, and ψ‐phase in the middle of the phase diagram. It is (n‐CnH2n+1R3)2ZnCl4 systems as phase change materials that are characterized the phase transition temperatures T in the range of 310 to 340 K, the transition enthalpies ΔH in the range of 38.40 and 168.72 J/g between two polymorphic forms.
Relative Stability of Multiple Bonds between Germanium and Stibium. A Theoretical Study
Authors: Huang Cheng‐Chieh , Wen Xiang‐Ting , Li Yu‐Chi , Su Ming‐Der
Published: September 2015

Substituent effects on the potential energy surface of XGeSb (X=H, Li, Na, BeH, MgH, BH2, AlH2, CH3, SiH3, NH2, PH2, OH, SH, F, and Cl) were investigated by using B3LYP/Def2‐TZVP, B3PW91/Def2‐ TZVPP CCSD (T)//B3LYP/Def2‐TZVP methods. The isomers include structures with formal double (Ge=SbX) and triple (Xge=Sb) bonds to germanium‐stibium, so a direct comparison of these types of species is possible. Our model calculations indicate that electropositively substituted Ge=SbX species are thermodynamically and kinetically more stable than their isomeric Xge=Sb molecules. Moreover, the theoretical findings suggest that only the organic substitutions (such as CH3) can make triply bonded Xge=Sb molecule more stable than the doubly bonded Ge=SbX species.
The Arts, Crafts, and Sciences of Psychotherapy
Authors: Benjamin Lorna Smith
Published: September 2015

Contemporary training and practice of psychotherapy and the research that supports it is the subject of this review. I discuss it in the light of what I value most from my own professional training, which was, in my opinion, highly privileged by comparison with what is offered today. A minimal hoped‐for outcome is that younger readers will find valuable tidbits here and there that will be useful in their own versions of psychotherapy. A maximal hope is that a few individuals who choose to maintain clinical skills as well as emphasize psychotherapy research might be encouraged to follow their instincts toward excellence. They would allow their curiosity to bloom and their work to be creative and more adherent to the rules of natural science than time allows in these days of dashboards that count funding associated with numbers of publications, grants, teaching, and service hours. Admittedly, that path less well traveled would be risky, because what truly is new takes time to develop and implement and the outcomes when research truly can disconfirm hypotheses (as distinct from fail to confirm them) are, well, uncertain.
Study of Regiochemical Trends During the Synthesis of Furan and 5‐(p‐chlorophenyl)Furan Containing Novel Spiropyrrolidine Library Through 1,3‐dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Mallya Sahana , Kalluraya Balakrishna , Jois H. S. Vidyashree
Published: September 2015

A new class of functionalized furan and 5‐(p‐chlorophenyl)furan containing spiropyrrolidines has been synthesized in moderate to excellent yields by the one‐pot, three‐component 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction of in situ generated azomethine ylides with various furan/aryl furan‐substituted chalcones as dipolarophiles. The effect of electron deficient substituents at the fifth position of the furan ring in the chalcone on the regiochemistry of the cycloaddition formed was studied. The structures of the newly synthesized cycloaddicts were proved by analytical and spectral data.
The association between an ultrabrief cognitive screening in older adults and hospital outcomes
Authors: Yevchak Andrea M. , Doherty Kelly , Archambault Elizabeth G. , Kelly Brittany , Fonda Jennifer R. , Rudolph James L.
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

Though often recommended, hospital cognitive assessment is infrequently completed due to clinical and time constraints.

OBJECTIVE

This analysis aimed to evaluate the relationship between performance on ultrabrief cognitive screening instruments and hospital outcomes.

DESIGN

This is a secondary data analysis of a quality improvement project.

SETTING

Tertiary Veterans Administration hospital in New England.

PATIENTS

Patients, ≥ 60 years old, admitted to the hospital.

INTERVENTION

None.

MEASUREMENTS

Upon admission, patients were administered 2 cognitive screening tools. The modified Richmond Agitation and Sedation Scale (mRASS) is a measure of arousal that can be completed in 15 seconds. The months of the year backward (MOYB) is a measure of attention that can be administered in ≤1 minute. In‐hospital outcomes included restraints and mortality, whereas discharge outcomes included length of stay, discharge not home, and variable direct costs. Risk ratios were calculated for dichotomous outcomes and unadjusted Poisson regression for continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

Patients (n = 3232) were screened. Altered arousal occurred in 15% of patients (n = 495); incorrect MOYB was recorded in 45% (n = 1457). Relative to those with normal arousal and attention, those with abnormal mRASS and incorrect MOYB had increased length of stay (incident rate ratio [IRR]: 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17–1.30); restraint use (risk ratio [RR]: 5.05, 95% CI: 3.29–7.75), in‐hospital mortality (RR: 3.46, 95% CI: 1.24–9.63), and decreased discharge home (RR: 2.97, 95% CI: 2.42–3.64). Hospital variable direct costs were slightly, but not significantly, higher (IRR: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.88–1.17).

CONCLUSION

Impaired performance on ultrabrief cognitive assessments of arousal and attention provide valuable insights regarding hospital outcomes. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:651–657. 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Measuring patient experiences on hospitalist and teaching services: Patient responses to a 30‐day postdischarge questionnaire
Authors: Wray Charlie M. , Flores Andrea , Padula William V. , Prochaska Micah T. , Meltzer David O. , Arora Vineet M.
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

Data comparing patient experiences between general medicine teaching and nonteaching hospitalist services are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate hospitalized patients' experience on general medicine teaching and nonteaching hospitalist services by assessing patients' confidence in their ability to identify their physician(s), understand their roles, and their rating of the coordination and overall care.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort analysis of general medicine teaching and nonteaching hospitalist services from 2007 to 2013 at an academic medical center. Patients were surveyed 30‐days after hospital discharge regarding their confidence in their ability to identify their physician(s), understand the role of their physician(s), and their perceptions of coordination and overall care. A 3‐level, mixed effects logistic regression was performed to ascertain the association between service type and patient‐reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Data from 4591 general medicine teaching and 1811 nonteaching hospitalist service patients demonstrated that those cared for by the hospitalist service were more likely to report being able to identify their physician (50% vs 45%, P < 0.001), understand their role (54% vs 50%, P < 0.001), and rate greater satisfaction with coordination (68 vs 64%, P = 0.006) and overall care (73% vs 67%, P < 0.001). In regression models, the hospitalist service was associated with higher ratings in overall care (odds ratio [OR]: 1.33; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15‐1.47), even when hospitalists were the attendings on general medicine teaching services (OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.01‐1.31).

CONCLUSION

Patients on a nonteaching hospitalist service rated their overall care slightly better than patients on a general medicine teaching service. Team structure and complexity may play a role in this difference. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:99–104. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of contrast‐enhanced MRI and diffusion‐weighted MRI in the differentiation between uterine leiomyosarcoma / smooth muscle tumor with uncertain malignant potential and benign leiomyoma
Authors: Lin Gigin , Yang Lan‐Yan , Huang Yu‐Ting , Ng Koon‐Kwan , Ng Shu‐Hang , Ueng Shir‐Hwa , Chao Angel , Yen Tzu‐Chen , Chang Ting‐Chang , Lai Chyong‐Huey
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of contrast‐enhanced (CE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion‐weighted MRI (DWI) in the differentiation between uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) / smooth muscle tumor with uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) and benign leiomyoma.

Materials and Methods

A consecutive cohort of 8 LMS/STUMP and 25 benign leiomyomas underwent pelvic MRI exam at 3T. Two radiologists independently evaluated images based on CE‐MRI (central nonenhancement at equilibrial phase) and DWI (hyperintensity on b = 1000 s/mm2 and hypointensity on apparent diffusion coefficients [ADC] map). The ADC values were calculated from b = 0 and 1000 s/mm2.

Results

CE‐MRI yielded a significantly superior diagnostic accuracy (0.94 vs. 0.52) and a significantly higher specificity (0.96 vs. 0.36) than DWI (P < 0.05 for both), and remained a comparably high sensitivity as DWI (0.88 vs. 1.00). A combination of DWI and ADC value <1.08 × 10−3 mm2/s (determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis) improved diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of DWI to 0.88, 0.88, and 0.88, respectively, by post‐hoc analysis based on the same study cohort.

Conclusion

For prospective differentiation between uterine LMS/STUMP and benign leiomyoma, CE‐MRI can provide accurate information and is preferable to DWI. Combination of DWI and ADC values can achieve a comparable diagnostic accuracy to CE‐MRI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:333–342.
Unraveling of cross talk between Ca2+ and ROS regulating enzymes in Anabaena 7120 and ntcA mutant
Authors: Singh Savita , Mishra Arun Kumar
Published: September 2015

In order to understand a cross talk between Ca2+ and ROS regulating enzymes and the possible involvement of ntcA gene, Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 and its derivative ntcA mutant grown in varied levels of calcium chloride (0, 1, 10, and 100 mM) have been investigated. Scanning Electron Microscopy showed abnormal structure formation at high calcium concentration (100 mM) both in wild type and mutant. Fv/Fm values suggested that 100 mM calcium concentration was detrimental for photosynthetic apparatus. SOD, catalase, APX, GR, and peroxidase activity were found to be maximum for 100 mM and minimum for 1 mM of exogenously supplied calcium salt. NADPH contents were higher for wild type than mutant. RAPD‐PCR and SDS‐PAGE analysis revealed a difference in DNA as well as proteome pattern with changes in calcium chloride regime. Prominent bands of approximately 70, 33, 21, and 14 kDa expressed in the wild type served as the marker polypeptide bands under calcium supplementation. Results suggest that higher levels of calcium ion disturb the cellular homeostasis generating ROS, thereby inducing enhanced levels of antioxidative enzymes. Further, data also suggests possible involvement of ntcA gene in cross talk between calcium ion and ROS regulating enzymes.
Purification and characterization of detergent stable alkaline protease from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SP1 isolated from apple rhizosphere
Authors: Guleria Shiwani , Walia Abhishek , Chauhan Anjali , Shirkot Chand Karan
Published: September 2015

A thermostable extracellular alkaline protease producing Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SP1 was isolated from apple rhizosphere having multifarious plant growth promoting activities. Strain SP1 was purified to 6.48‐fold using four‐step purification protocol and characterized in detail for its robustness and ecofriendly application in leather and detergent industries. Structural analysis revealed that the protease was monomeric and had a molecular weight of 43 kDa. It exhibited optimum activity at 60°C in alkaline environment (pH 8.0) and stable in the presence of surfactants and oxidizing agents. Enzyme was thermostable at 50°C and retained more than 70% activity after 30 min incubation. It has shown stain removal property and dehairing of goat skin without chemical assistance and hydrolyzing fibrous proteins. This protease showed Km of 0.125 mg ml−1 and Vmax of 12820 μg ml−1 indicating its excellent affinity and catalytic role. Thermal inactivation of the pure enzyme followed first‐order kinetics. The half life of the pure enzyme at 50, 60, and 65°C was 77, 19.80, and 13.33 min, respectively. The activation energy was 37.19 KJ mol−1. The results suggest that the B. amyloliquefaciens SP1 has a potential application in different industries.
A Systematic Review of Dropout From Psychotherapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Iraq and Afghanistan Combat Veterans
Authors: Goetter Elizabeth M. , Bui Eric , Ojserkis Rebecca A. , Zakarian Rebecca J. , Brendel Rebecca Weintraub , Simon Naomi M.
Published: September 2015

A significant number of veterans of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan have posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), yet underutilization of mental health treatment remains a significant problem. The purpose of this review was to summarize rates of dropout from outpatient, psychosocial PTSD interventions provided to U.S. Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), and Operation New Dawn (OND) veterans with combat‐related PTSD. There were 788 articles that were identified which yielded 20 studies involving 1,191 individuals eligible for the review. The dropout rates in individual studies ranged from 5.0% to 78.2%, and the overall pooled dropout rate was 36%, 95% CI [26.20, 43.90]. The dropout rate differed marginally by study type (routine clinical care settings had higher dropout rates than clinical trials) and treatment format (group treatment had higher dropout rates than individual treatment), but not by whether comorbid substance dependence was excluded, by treatment modality (telemedicine vs. in‐person treatment), or treatment type (exposure therapy vs. nonexposure therapy). Dropout is a critical aspect of the problem of underutilization of care among OEF/OIF/OND veterans with combat‐related PTSD. Innovative strategies to enhance treatment retention are needed.
A novel optical sensor designed to measure methane bubble sizes in situ
Authors: Delwiche Kyle , Senft‐Grupp Schuyler , Hemond Harold
Published: September 2015

This work presents a novel design for an optical bubble size sensor that is rugged, economical to build, and capable of accurately measuring methane bubble sizes in aquatic environments over long deployment periods. The sensor intercepts rising gas bubbles, elongates them in a thin glass tube, and routes elongated bubbles past an optical detector. The optical detector records information on bubble rise velocity and travel time, which can be combined with the flow path geometry to calculate bubble volume at flow rates up to 3 bubbles/second. The sensor circuitry is powered by 6‐V C alkaline battery packs and is cased in a waterproof housing built from commercially available PVC pipe fittings. Laboratory testing indicates the sensor can accurately measure bubble volumes up to 1 mL in volume. We deployed the sensor in a lake with a history of methane ebullition and gathered data on bubble size distributions (most bubbles were between 0.025 mL and 0.2 mL) as well as the precise timing of bubbling events. The sensor also includes an optional gas collection system to allow for bulk gas sampling.
Surfactant‐Free Emulsion‐Based Preparation of Redox‐Responsive Nanogels
Authors: Cheng Weiren , Wang Guan , Kumar Jatin Nitin , Liu Ye
Published: September 2015

A surfactant‐free emulsion‐based approach is developed for preparation of nanogels. A water‐in‐oil emulsion is generated feasibly from a mixture of water and a solution of disulfide‐containing hyperbranched PEGylated poly(amido amine)s, poly(BAC2‐AMPD1)‐PEG, in chloroform. The water droplets in the emulsion are stabilized and filled with poly(BAC2‐AMPD1)‐PEG, and the crosslinked poly(amido amine)s nanogels are formed via the intermolecular disulfide exchange reaction. FITC‐dextran is loaded within the nanogels by dissolving the compound in water before emulsification. Transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering are applied to characterize the emulsion and the nanogels. The effects of the homogenization rate and the ratio of water/polymer are investigated. Redox‐induced degradation and FITC‐dextran release profile of the nanogels are monitored, and the results show efficient loading and redox‐responsive release of FITC‐dextran. This is a promising approach for the preparation of nanogels for drug delivery, especially for neutral charged carbohydrate‐based drugs.

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CD146 attenuation in cancer‐associated fibroblasts promotes pancreatic cancer progression
Authors: Zheng Biao , Ohuchida Kenoki , Chijiiwa Yoshiro , Zhao Ming , Mizuuchi Yusuke , Cui Lin , Horioka Kohei , Ohtsuka Takao , Mizumoto Kazuhiro , Oda Yoshinao , Hashizume Makoto , Nakamura Masafumi , Tanaka Masao
Published: September 2015

Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are heterogeneous cell populations that influence tumor initiation and progression. CD146 is a cell membrane protein whose expression has been implicated in multiple human cancers. CD146 expression is also detected in pancreatic cancer stroma; however, the role it plays in this context remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the function and significance of CD146 expression in pancreatic cancer. We performed immunohistochemical staining to investigate the prevalence of CD146 expression in stromal fibroblasts in pancreatic cancer. We also examined the influence of CD146 on CAF‐mediated tumor invasion and migration and CAF activation using CD146 small interfering RNA or overexpression plasmids in primary cultures of CAFs derived from pancreatic cancer tissues. CD146 expression in CAFs was associated with high‐grade pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia and low histological grade invasive ductal carcinoma of the pancreas, while patients with low CD146 expression had a poorer prognosis. Blocking CD146 expression in CAFs significantly enhanced tumor cell migration and invasion in a co‐culture system. CD146 knockdown also promoted CAF activation, possibly by inducing the production of pro‐tumorigenic factors through modulation of NF‐κB activity. Consistently, overexpression of CD146 in CAFs inhibited migration and invasion of co‐cultured cancer cells. Finally, CD146 expression in CAFs was reduced by interaction with cancer cells. Our findings suggest that decreased CD146 expression in CAFs promotes pancreatic cancer progression. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fitting the two‐compartment model in DCE‐MRI by linear inversion
Authors: Flouri Dimitra , Lesnic Daniel , Sourbron Steven P.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

Model fitting of dynamic contrast‐enhanced‐magnetic resonance imaging‐MRI data with nonlinear least squares (NLLS) methods is slow and may be biased by the choice of initial values. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a linear least squares (LLS) method to fit the two‐compartment exchange and ‐filtration models.

Methods

A second‐order linear differential equation for the measured concentrations was derived where model parameters act as coefficients. Simulations of normal and pathological data were performed to determine calculation time, accuracy and precision under different noise levels and temporal resolutions. Performance of the LLS was evaluated by comparison against the NLLS.

Results

The LLS method is about 200 times faster, which reduces the calculation times for a 256 × 256 MR slice from 9 min to 3 s. For ideal data with low noise and high temporal resolution the LLS and NLLS were equally accurate and precise. The LLS was more accurate and precise than the NLLS at low temporal resolution, but less accurate at high noise levels.

Conclusion

The data show that the LLS leads to a significant reduction in calculation times, and more reliable results at low noise levels. At higher noise levels the LLS becomes exceedingly inaccurate compared to the NLLS, but this may be improved using a suitable weighting strategy. Magn Reson Med 76:998–1006, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oncologic Phenotype of Peripheral Neuroblastic Tumors Associated With PHOX2B Non‐Polyalanine Repeat Expansion Mutations
Authors: Heide Solveig , Masliah‐Planchon Julien , Isidor Bertrand , Guimier Anne , Bodet Damien , Coze Carole , Deville Anne , Thebault Estelle , Pasquier Corinne Jeanne , Cassagnau Elisabeth , Pierron Gaelle , Clément Nathalie , Schleiermacher Gudrun , Amiel Jeanne , Delattre Olivier , Peuchmaur Michel , Bourdeaut Franck
Published: September 2015

Background

Germline non‐polyalanine repeat expansion mutations in PHOX2B (PHOX2B NPARM) predispose to peripheral neuroblastic tumors (PNT), frequently in association with other neurocristopathies: Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) or congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS). Although PHOX2B polyalanine repeat expansions predispose to a low incidence of benign PNTs, the oncologic phenotype associated with PHOX2B NPARM is still not known in detail.

Methods

We analyzed prognostic factors, treatment toxicity, and outcome of patients with PNT and PHOX2B NPARM.

Results

Thirteen patients were identified, six of whom also had CCHS and/or HSCR, one also had late‐onset hypoventilation with hypothalamic dysfunction (LO‐CHS/HD), and six had no other neurocristopathy. Four tumours were “poorly differentiated,” and nine were differentiated, including five ganglioneuromas, three ganglioneuroblastomas, and one differentiating neuroblastoma, hence illustrating that PHOX2B NPARM are predominantly associated with differentiating tumors. Nevertheless, three patients had stage 4 and one patient had stage 3 disease. Segmental chromosomal alterations, correlating with poor prognosis, were found in all the six tumors analyzed by array‐comparative genomic hybridization. One patient died of tumor progression, one is on palliative care, one died of hypoventilation, and 10 patients are still alive, with median follow‐up of 5 years.

Conclusions

Based on histological phenotype, our series suggests that heterozygous PHOX2B NPARM do not fully preclude ganglion cell differentiation in tumors. However, this tumor predisposition syndrome may also be associated with poorly differentiated tumors with unfavorable genomic profiles and clinically aggressive behaviors. The intrafamilial variability and the unpredictable tumor prognosis should be considered in genetic counseling. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015; 9999:XX–XX © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.