bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rothmund-Thomson Syndrome: A 13-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Guerrero-González Guillermo Antonio , Martínez-Cabriales Sylvia Aideé , Hernández-Juárez Aideé Alejandra , Lugo-Trampe José de Jesús , Espinoza-González Nelly Alejandra , Gómez-Flores Minerva , Ocampo-Candiani Jorge
Published: July 2014

Rothmund-Thomson syndrome (RTS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder presenting with poikiloderma and other clinical features, affecting the bones and eyes and, in type II RTS, presenting an increased risk for malignancy. With about 300 cases reported so far, we present a 13-year follow-up including clinical images, X-rays and genetic analysis. A 13-month-old female started with a facial rash with blisters on her cheeks and limbs at the age of 3 months along with congenital hypoplastic thumbs, frontal bossing and fine hair, eyebrows and eyelashes. The patient was lost to follow-up and returned 12 years later with palmoplantar hyperkeratotic lesions, short stature, disseminated poikiloderma and sparse scalp hair, with absence of eyelashes and eyebrows. Radiographic analysis showed radial ray defect, absence of the thumb and three wrist carpal bones, and reduced bone density. Gene sequencing for the RECQL4 helicase gene revealed a mutation on each allele. RTS is a rare disease, and in this patient we observed the evolution of her skin lesions and other clinical features, which were important for the classification of type II RTS. The next years will provide even more information on this rare disease.
Role of Biomechanical Forces in Stem Cell Vascular Lineage Differentiation
Authors: Potter Claire M.F. , Lao Ka Hou , Zeng Lingfang , Xu Qingbo
Published: July 2014

Mechanical forces have long been known to play a role in the maintenance of vascular homeostasis in the mature animal and in developmental regulation in the fetus. More recently, it has been shown that stem cells play a role in vascular repair and remodeling in response to biomechanical stress. Laminar shear stress can directly activate growth factor receptors on stem/progenitor cells, initiating signaling pathways leading toward endothelial cell differentiation. Cyclic strain can stimulate stem cell differentiation toward smooth muscle lineages through different mechanisms. In vivo, blood flow in the coronary artery is significantly altered after stenting, leading to changes in biomechanical forces on the vessel wall. This disruption may activate stem cell differentiation into a variety of cells and cause delayed re-endothelialization. Based on progress in the research field, the present review aims to explore the role of mechanical forces in stem cell differentiation both in vivo and in vitro and to examine what this means for the application of stem cells in the clinic, in tissue engineering, and for the management of aberrant stem cell contribution to disease.
A Brief Etymology of the Collateral Circulation
Authors: Faber James E. , Chilian William M. , Deindl Elisabeth , van Royen Niels , Simons Michael
Published: July 2014

It is well known that the protective capacity of the collateral circulation falls short in many individuals with ischemic disease of the heart, brain, and lower extremities. In the past 15 years, opportunities created by molecular and genetic tools, together with disappointing outcomes in many angiogenic trials, have led to a significant increase in the number of studies that focus on: understanding the basic biology of the collateral circulation; identifying the mechanisms that limit the collateral circulation’s capacity in many individuals; devising methods to measure collateral extent, which has been found to vary widely among individuals; and developing treatments to increase collateral blood flow in obstructive disease. Unfortunately, accompanying this increase in reports has been a proliferation of vague terms used to describe the disposition and behavior of this unique circulation, as well as the increasing misuse of well-ensconced ones by new (and old) students of collateral circulation. With this in mind, we provide a brief glossary of readily understandable terms to denote the formation, adaptive growth, and maladaptive rarefaction of collateral circulation. We also propose terminology for several newly discovered processes that occur in the collateral circulation. Finally, we include terms used to describe vessels that are sometimes confused with collaterals, as well as terms describing processes active in the general arterial–venous circulation when ischemic conditions engage the collateral circulation. We hope this brief review will help unify the terminology used in collateral research.
Chronic Treatment With Ticagrelor Limits Myocardial Infarct Size
Authors: Nanhwan Manjyot K. , Ling Shukuan , Kodakandla Monica , Nylander Sven , Ye Yumei , Birnbaum Yochai
Published: July 2014

Objective—

In a phase III clinical trial (PLATelet inhibition and patient Outcomes, PLATO), ticagrelor provided better clinical outcomes than clopidogrel in patients with acute coronary syndromes. In addition to P2Y
12
-receptor antagonism, ticagrelor prevents cell uptake of adenosine and has proven able to augment adenosine effects. Adenosine protects the heart against ischemia–reperfusion injury. We compared the effects of clopidogrel and ticagrelor on myocardial infarct size (IS).

Approach and Results—

Rats received oral ticagrelor (0, 75, 150, or 300 mg/kg/d) or clopidogrel (30 or 90 mg/kg/d) for 7 days and underwent 30-minute coronary artery ligation and 24-hour reperfusion. Area at risk was assessed by blue dye and IS by 2,3,5-triphenyl-tetrazolium-chloride. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) enzyme activity was assessed by ELISA and expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Mechanism responsible was explored using adenosine-receptor antagonist (CGS15943, an A
2A
/A
1
antagonist) or cyclooxygenase inhibition by either aspirin (5, 10, or 25 mg/kg) or specific cyclooxygenase-1 (SC560) or COX2 (SC5815) inhibitors. Ticagrelor, dose-dependently, reduced IS, whereas clopidogrel had no effect. Adenosine-receptor antagonism blocked the ticagrelor effect and COX2 inhibition by SC5815, or high-dose aspirin attenuated the IS-limiting effect of ticagrelor, whereas cyclooxygenase-1 inhibition or low-dose aspirin had no effect. Ticagrelor, but not clopidogrel, upregulated COX2 expression and activity. Also this effect was blocked by adenosine-receptor antagonism. Ticagrelor, but not clopidogrel, increased Akt and endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation.

Conclusions—

Ticagrelor, but not clopidogrel, reduces myocardial IS. The protective effect of ticagrelor was dependent on adenosine-receptor activation with downstream upregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and COX2 activity.
Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 1–Derived Peptide Inhibits Janus Kinase/Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription Pathway and Improves Inflammation and Atherosclerosis in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Recio Carlota , Oguiza Ainhoa , Lazaro Iolanda , Mallavia Beñat , Egido Jesus , Gomez-Guerrero Carmen
Published: July 2014

Objective—

Activation of Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathway by hyperglycemia and dislypidemia contributes to the progression of diabetic complications, including atherosclerosis. Suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) proteins negatively regulate Janus kinase/STAT and have emerged as promising target for anti-inflammatory therapies. We investigated whether a cell-permeable lipopeptide corresponding to the kinase inhibitory region of SOCS1 could reduce atherosclerosis in diabetic mice and identified the mechanisms involved.

Approach and Results—

Streptozotocin-induced diabetic apolipoprotein E–deficient mice (aged 8 and 22 weeks) were given intraperitoneal injections of vehicle, SOCS1-derived peptide, or control mutant peptide for 6 to 10 weeks. SOCS1 therapy suppressed STAT1/STAT3 activation in atherosclerotic plaques of diabetic mice and significantly reduced lesion size at both early and advanced stages of lesion development compared with vehicle group. Plaque characterization demonstrated that SOCS1 peptide decreased the accumulation of lipids, macrophages, and T lymphocytes, whereas increasing collagen and smooth muscle cell content. This atheroprotective effect was accompanied by systemic (reduced proinflammatory Ly6C
high
monocytes and splenic cytokine expression) and local (reduced aortic expression of chemokines and cytokines) mechanisms, without impact on metabolic parameters. In vitro, SOCS1 peptide dose dependently inhibited STAT1/STAT3 activation and target gene expression in vascular smooth muscle cells and macrophages and also suppressed cytokine-induced cell migration and adhesion processes.

Conclusions—

SOCS1-based targeting Janus kinase/STAT restrains key mechanisms of atherogenesis in diabetic mice, thereby preventing plaque formation and increasing plaque stability. Approaches to mimic native SOCS1 functions may have a therapeutic potential to retard the progression of diabetic complications.
Reduction in Overall Occurrences of Ischemic Events With Vorapaxar: Results From TRACER
Authors: White Harvey D. , Huang Zhen , Tricoci Pierluigi , Van de Werf Frans , Wallentin Lars , Lokhnygina Yuliya , Moliterno David J. , Aylward Philip E. , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Armstrong Paul W.
Published: July 2014

Background

Clinical trials traditionally use time‐to‐first‐event analysis embedded within the composite endpoint of cardiovascular death (
CVD
), myocardial infarction (
MI
), or stroke. However, many patients have >1 event, and this approach may not reflect overall experience. We addressed this by analyzing all cardiovascular events in TRACER.

Methods and Results

TRACER randomized 12 944 patients with non‐
ST
‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes to placebo or to protease‐activated receptor 1 antagonist vorapaxar with a median follow‐up of 502 days (interquartile range, 349 to 667). Analysis of vorapaxar's effect on recurrent
CVD
,
MI
, or stroke was prespecified using the Wei, Lin, and Weissfeld approach. Vorapaxar did not reduce the first occurrence of the primary endpoint of
CVD
,
MI
, stroke, revascularization, or rehospitalization for recurrent ischemia, but reduced the secondary composite endpoint of
CVD
,
MI
, or stroke (14.7% vorapaxar vs. 16.4% placebo; hazard ratio [
HR],
0.89; 95% confidence interval [
CI],
0.81 to 0.98;
P
=0.02; number needed to treat [
NNT
], 81). Recurrent secondary events occurred in 2.7% of patients. Vorapaxar reduced overall occurrences of ischemic events, first and subsequent (
HR,
0.88; 95%
CI,
0.80 to 0.98;
P
=0.02;
NNT,
51). Also, there was a trend indicating that vorapaxar reduced the expanded endpoint, including revascularization and rehospitalization for recurrent ischemia (
HR,
0.92; 95%
CI,
0.84 to 1.01;
P
=0.09). Vorapaxar increased overall occurrences of moderate and severe Global Use of Strategies to Open Occluded Coronary Arteries bleeding (
HR,
1.42; 95%
CI,
1.21 to 1.66;
P
<0.001) and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction clinically significant bleeding (
HR,
1.550; 95%
CI,
1.403 to 1.713;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Vorapaxar reduced overall occurrences of ischemic events, but increased bleeding. These exploratory findings broaden our understanding of vorapaxar's potential and expand our understanding of the value of capturing recurrent events.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL: ClinicalTrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00527943.
Standard-Dose Intravenous Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator for Stroke Is Better Than Low Doses
Authors: Liao Xiaoling , Wang Yilong , Pan Yuesong , Wang Chunjuan , Zhao Xingquan , Wang David Z. , Wang Chunxue , Liu Liping , Wang Yongjun
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose—

It remains uncertain whether lower dose intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) for stroke is as effective and safe as the standard dose.

Methods—

We analyzed data from the Thrombolysis Implementation and Monitor of Acute Ischemic Stroke in China (TIMS-China). Patients who were treated within 4.5 hours after symptom onset were included. These patients were divided into 5 groups according to tPA doses given: <0.5, 0.5 to 0.7, 0.7 to 0.85, 0.85 to 0.95, and ≥0.95 mg/kg. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, mortality, and 90-day outcome assessed by modified Rankin scale were analyzed.

Results—

A total of 919 patients were enrolled. Among them, 9 had <0.5 mg/kg, 75 had 0.5 to 0.7 mg/kg, 131 had 0.7 to 0.85 mg/kg, 678 had 0.85 to 0.95 mg/kg, and 26 had ≥0.95 mg/kg. Because of sample sizes, only 0.5 to 0.7, 0.7 to 0.85, and 0.85 to 0.95 mg/kg groups were compared. Median tPA doses were 0.64, 0.79, and 0.90 mg, respectively. After adjustment for the baseline variables, there were no significant differences in mortality(5.41% versus 8.66% versus 7.36%;
P
=0.695) and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (0% versus 3.82% versus 1.46%;
P
=0.106). The 0.5 to 0.7 mg/kg group had less excellent recovery outcome (modified Rankin scale, 0–1) than 0.85 to 0.95 mg/kg group (41.89% versus 53.83%; odds ratio=0.58;
P
=0.031) at 90 days. The 0.70 to 0.85 mg/kg group had less functional independence outcome (modified Rankin scale, 0–2) than 0.85 to 0.95 mg/kg group (54.33% versus 64.51%; odds ratio=0.66;
P
=0.036) at 90 days.

Conclusions—

Our study suggests that standard-dose intravenous tPA for stroke had more favorable outcome without increasing the risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage than low-dose tPA. For Asian people, 0.9 mg/kg should be the optimal dose of tPA to treat acute ischemic stroke.
Ischemic Postconditioning Relieves Cerebral Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury Through Activating T-LAK Cell–Originated Protein Kinase/Protein Kinase B Pathway in Rats
Authors: Zhao Haiping , Wang Rongliang , Tao Zhen , Gao Li , Yan Feng , Gao Zhi , Liu Xiangrong , Ji Xunming , Luo Yumin
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose—

Ischemic postconditioning (IPostC) protects against ischemic brain injury. To date, no study has examined the role of T-LAK-cell–originated protein kinase (TOPK) in IPostC-afforded neuroprotection. We explored the molecular mechanism related with TOPK in antioxidant effect of IPostC against ischemia/reperfusion.

Methods—

Focal ischemia was induced in rats by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Reactive oxygen species production in the peri-infarct cortex was detected using dihydroethidium. Malondialdehyde, as a marker of lipid peroxidation, and 3-nitrotyrosine, as a marker of protein oxidation, were detected by ELISA. The expression or location of antioxidant proteins and signal molecules TOPK, phosphatase, and tensin homolog, and Akt was analyzed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence.

Results—

Our results revealed that IPostC relieved transient middle cerebral artery occlusion–induced oxidative damage by reducing reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and 3-nitrotyrosine accumulation in the peri-infarct cortex and raised levels of antioxidants perioxiredoxin-1, peroxiredoxin-2, and thioredoxin-1. In addition, IPostC increased p-AKT and p-TOPK levels, which colocalized in neural cells. In vitro TOPK knockdown by small interfering RNA decreased the levels of antioxidants peroxiredoxin-1, thioredoxin, and manganese superoxide dismutase activity in PC12 cells. In vivo intracerebroventricular injection of TOPK small interfering RNA reversed IPostC-induced neuroprotection by increasing infarct volume and nitric oxide content and reducing manganese superoxide dismutase activity. Moreover, IPostC-evoked Akt activation was blocked by TOPK small interfering RNA in vivo, but the decreased phosphorylated phosphatase and tensin homolog level in ischemia/reperfusion was not influenced by IPostC or by TOPK small interfering RNA treatment.

Conclusions—

Our results suggest that the antioxidative effects of TOPK/Akt might contribute to the neuroprotection of IPostC treatment against transient middle cerebral artery occlusion.
Sensitivity of Crop Water Need to 2071–95 Projected Temperature and Precipitation Changes in Jamaica
Authors: Curtis Scott , Gamble Douglas W. , Popke Jeff
Published: July 2014

This study uses empirical models to examine the potential impact of climate change, based on a range of 100-yr phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) projections, on crop water need in Jamaica. As expected, crop water need increases with rising temperature and decreasing precipitation, especially in May–July. Comparing the temperature and precipitation impacts on crop water need indicates that the 25th percentile of CMIP5 temperature change (moderate warming) yields a larger crop water deficit than the 75th percentile of CMIP5 precipitation change (wet winter and dry summer), but the 25th percentile of CMIP5 precipitation change (substantial drying) dominates the 75th percentile of CMIP5 temperature change (extreme warming). Over the annual cycle, the warming contributes to larger crop water deficits from November to April, while the drying has a greater influence from May to October. All experiments decrease crop suitability, with the largest impact from March to August.
Preparation and malachite green adsorption behavior of polyurethane/chitosan composite foam
Authors: Li XX , Li J , Sun XJ , Cai LY , Li YC , Tian X , Li JR
Published: July 2014

A series of Polyurethane/Chitosan composite foam with different chitosan content of 5–25 wt% was prepared, and their adsorption performance of malachite green (MG) in aqueous solutions was investigated by pH values, contact time, temperatures and chitosan content. It was observed that Polyurethane/Chitosan composite foam exhibited well-developed open cell structures. Malachite green adsorption capacities of the composite foam increased with the increment of chitosan content in composite foam. Polyurethane/Chitosan composite foam with 20% chitosan content exhibited a maximum removal capacity of 16.67 mg/g and 95.60% MG removal efficiency. In addition, MG adsorption capacities of composite foam increased with pH value increase, 30℃ was the optimum temperature, which affects the adsorption process, and the adsorption maximum was attained within 12 hours. The result of SEM showed the prepared composite foam possess well-developed open cell structures. The MG adsorption kinetics and equilibrium isotherm of the composite foam were well described with the pseudo-second order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model, respectively. This work provided an attractive adsorbent for removing of the hazardous materials from water.
The ‘Malawi device’: a durable, reusable, low cost device from own materials for emergency ventilation during percutaneous tracheostomy
Authors: Pollach Gregor , Namboya Felix , Jung Kai
Published: July 2014

The use of a tracheostomy is routine in current intensive care practice to facilitate weaning patients requiring prolonged respiratory support from mechanical ventilation. Percutaneous tracheostomy has become an established technique with an acceptable risk profile in appropriately selected patients, and has the advantage that it can be performed at the bedside without the need for an operating theatre. This is particularly relevant in a resource-poor setting.

Ideally, percutaneous tracheostomy requires the presence of two skilled persons; one to perform the tracheostomy while the other controls the airway and withdraws the endo-tracheal tube at the appropriate time. This is not always possible in a resource poor setting with limited manpower. Without two operators, it is possible for the tracheal tube to become displaced before the completion of the tracheostomy with potentially disastrous consequences.

We describe a method by which the airway and ventilation can be maintained if accidental tracheal extubation occurs before completion of a percutaneous tracheostomy. The ‘Malawi Device’, a cheap and simple modification of readily available equipment, enables a single operator to maintain the airway and ventilate the patient when the above scenario occurs.
Women’s Time Poverty and Family Structure
Authors: Zilanawala Afshin
Published: July 2014

Discretionary time deficits are a result of a disproportionate amount of time spent in paid and unpaid work. Such time deficits are related to negative health outcomes. Discretionary time deficits may be influenced by family structure, because other adults can provide additional economic and time resources. Research to date does not examine differences in discretionary time deficits by family structure. Using the 2003-2010 American Time Use Surveys (ATUS), this study measures discretionary time deficits using a residual time poverty measure and investigates differences in time poverty rates by family structure for women in combination of two social roles—worker and parent. Never married women have significantly lower time poverty rates as compared with married women. There are no family structure differences in time poverty among married, cohabiting, and previously married employed mothers. Living with other employed adults significantly reduces the odds of time poverty for never married women.
The Political and Material Landscape of European Energy Distribution: Tracking the Oil Road
Authors: Marriott James , Minio-Paluello Mika
Published: July 2014

A close analysis of contemporary and historical extraction of Caspian oil and its transportation, via pipeline and tanker, to central Europe, frames an investigation into interrelationships between the organization and conditioning of European societies and their fuel mobility systems. For the fuel used for contemporary mobility systems relies on the mobility systems of fuel. The article examines the governmental and capital structures that have driven oil consumption growth since the 1870s, enabled the powering of geopolitics and determined the spatiality of carbonized sociotechnical systems. It unpacks the current forces that resist any shift away from this petroculture, any ‘powering down’ of society.
Assessment of multifocality and axillary nodal involvement in early-stage breast cancer patients using 18F-FDG PET/CT compared to contrast-enhanced and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and sentinel node biopsy
Authors: Ergul Nurhan , Kadioglu Huseyin , Yildiz Seyma , Yucel Serap Baskaya , Gucin Zuhal , Erdogan Ezgi Basak , Aydin Mehmet , Muslumanoglu Mahmut
Published: July 2014

Background

Non-invasive evaluation of the extent of axillary nodal involvement in early-stage breast cancer (ESBC) patients and accurate assessment of multifocality are both challenging. Few reports have explored whether 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) might be more useful than other diagnostic methods in these contexts.

Purpose

To prospectively evaluate the diagnostic utility of FDG PET/CT, contrast-enhanced, and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI and DWI), and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB), in detection of axillary metastatic lymph nodes in ESBC patients; and to explore the utilities of FDG PET/CT and DCE-MRI for identification of multifocality.

Material and Methods

Twenty-four female patients (mean age, 47 ± 9.9 years; range, 24–68 years) with ESBC underwent whole-body FDG PET/CT and breast MRI prior to operation. SNB and axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) were performed on all patients, as was mastectomy or wide local tumor excision. Histopathological findings served as the gold standard when evaluating either multifocality or axillary nodal involvement.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy, of PET/CT and DCE-MRI, used to detect multifocality, were as follows: 67% versus 78%, 100% versus 53%, 100% versus 50%, 83% versus 80%, and 88% versus 63%. SNB afforded the highest sensitivity (93%) in terms of detection of axillary metastasis. The sensitivity, NPV, and accuracy of PET/CT were 67%, 62%, and 75% respectively, thus higher than the equivalent values of either DCE-MRI or DWI.

Conclusion

For assessment of multifocality in ESBC patients, highly specific results of PET/CT should be taken into account along with DCE-MRI findings. For evaluation of axillary nodal involvement, PET/CT has higher sensitivity, NPV, and accuracy values than DCE-MRI and DWI and may guide a surgical decision to proceed or not to SNB or ALND.
Calcium silicates synthesised from industrial residues with the ability for CO2 sequestration
Authors: Morales-Flórez Victor , Santos Alberto , López Antonio , Moriña Isabel , Esquivias Luis
Published: July 2014

This work explored several synthesis routes to obtain calcium silicates from different calcium-rich and silica-rich industrial residues. Larnite, wollastonite and calcium silicate chloride were successfully synthesised with moderate heat treatments below standard temperatures. These procedures help to not only conserve natural resources, but also to reduce the energy requirements and CO2 emissions. In addition, these silicates have been successfully tested as carbon dioxide sequesters, to enhance the viability of CO2 mineral sequestration technologies using calcium-rich industrial by-products as sequestration agents. Two different carbon sequestration experiments were performed under ambient conditions. Static experiments revealed carbonation efficiencies close to 100% and real-time resolved experiments characterised the dynamic behaviour and ability of these samples to reduce the CO2 concentration within a mixture of gases. The CO2 concentration was reduced up to 70%, with a carbon fixation dynamic ratio of 3.2 mg CO2 per g of sequestration agent and minute. Our results confirm the suitability of the proposed synthesis routes to synthesise different calcium silicates recycling industrial residues, being therefore energetically more efficient and environmentally friendly procedures for the cement industry.
Childhood Victimization Experiences of Young Adults in St. Petersburg, Russia
Authors: Bogolyubova Olga , Skochilov Roman , Smykalo Lyubov
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of childhood victimization experiences in a sample of young adults in St. Petersburg, Russia. The study sample included 743 students aged 19 to 25 from 15 universities in St. Petersburg, Russia. All of the study participants completed a reliable questionnaire assessing the following types of childhood victimization: conventional crime, child maltreatment, peer victimization, sexual victimization, and witnessing violence. Participation in the study was anonymous. High rates of victimization and exposure to violence were reported by the study participants. The majority of the sample experienced at least one type of victimization during childhood or adolescence, and poly-victimization was reported frequently. The most common type of victimization reported was peer or sibling assault (66.94%), followed by witnessing an assault without weapon (63.91%), personal theft (56.19%), vandalism (56.06%), and emotional bullying (49.99%). Sexual assault by a known adult was reported by 1.45% males and 5.16% of females. This study provides new information on the scope of childhood victimization experiences in Russia. Further research is warranted, including epidemiological research with representative data across the country and studies of the impact of trauma and victimization on mental health and well-being of Russian adults and children.
An optimum modal superposition approach in the computation of moving mass induced vibrations of a distributed parameter system
Authors: Hassanabadi Mohsen Ebrahimzadeh , Attari Nader KA , Nikkhoo Ali , Baranadan Meysam
Published: July 2014

Studied herein is the dynamic behavior of a circular thin plate traversed by a moving mass. The spatial domain is discretized by a series of the plate natural shape functions. A novel effective computational optimization is developed in the mathematical definition of the moving mass and its substructure interaction. The efficiency and the accuracy of the optimized method are evaluated and several bench mark solutions are represented. The utilization of the optimized method in the numerical model is observed to considerably suppress the computational efforts. Thus, the technique can highly facilitate the voluminous parametric studies for engineering practitioners.
Should we screen heterosexuals for extra-genital chlamydial and gonococcal infections?
Authors: Garner Anna L , Schembri Gabriel , Cullen Thomas , Lee Vincent
Published: July 2014

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) are two of the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infections in the UK. Although the high burden of extra-genital infections with GC and CT in men who have sex with men has been well established, a significant number of extra-genital site infections with CT and GC could similarly be present in heterosexual women. For this reason we started to routinely offer extra-genital site testing for GC and CT in all patients attending our sexual health clinic who reported having had receptive anal sex and/or giving oral sex. This followed a review of current evidence by the clinical team and a change in local testing policy. This study not only confirmed a large reservoir of extra-genital infection amongst men who have sex with men, but also demonstrates that a comparable reservoir of extra-genital infection is present amongst heterosexual women. Our study adds to the mounting evidence that extra-genital site testing in heterosexual women should occur when oral or anal sexual activity is reported.
A Phronesian Strategy to the Education for Sustainable Development in Swedish School Curricula
Authors: Grice Marie , Franck Olof
Published: July 2014

The concept of sustainable development is a foundational concept in educational contexts which seems to be interpretable in various terms. With reference to four syllabuses in the Swedish curriculum, our aim is to identify possible ways of conceiving how the concept may be developed in relation to perspectives bringing forth the relation between knowledge about and knowledge for sustainable development.

In the analysis, Bernard Williams’s distinction between thin and thick concepts is applied. With this analysis, a phronesian strategy is suggested to bring world-guidedness and the action-guidingness together within a holistic interpretation. The phronesian strategy will require action of the pupils and sensitivity to the individual and society as a whole.

The four syllabuses in social science seem to combine theoretical perspectives with more or less explicit implications of practical and action-oriented educational methods and goals. However, an individualistic attitude and approach to problems and solutions in our world seems to be favoured, which pedagogically could be questionable.
Intranuclear coccidiosis caused by Cyclospora spp. in calves
Authors: Yamada Minako , Hatama Shinichi , Ishikawa Yoshiharu , Kadota Koichi
Published: July 2014

Intranuclear coccidiosis in 3 calves is described. Two calves with no genetic relationship were kept in the same pen, and the third calf was on another farm. The animals suffered from watery diarrhea or severe emaciation. Histologic examination showed epithelial desquamation (cases 1 and 2) or atrophy (case 3) of the jejunal villi. Coccidial meronts or merozoites were present in the nuclei of the majority of villus epithelial cells. There were rare intranuclear macrogametocytes, macrogametes, microgametocytes, microgametes, and oocysts in cases 1 and 2, but these were more easily observed in case 3. Parasite 18S ribosomal RNA sequences from case 1 showed 99.5% sequence identity with Cyclospora sp. Guangzhou 1, which has been found in fecal samples of cattle from China. In addition to the molecular results in one of the cases, the fact that the microgametocytes and oocysts were noticeably smaller in size than those of Eimeria alabamensis in all cases indicates the close association between Cyclospora and the 3 cases described herein.
Cultural Influences in Pediatric Cancer
Authors: Gray Wendy N. , Szulczewski Lauren J. , Regan Shilpa M. P. , Williams Jaclyn A. , Pai Ahna L. H.
Published: July 2014

Objective: To review the literature on cultural factors influencing clinical care and family management of pediatric cancer. Methods: A literature review including 72 articles related to cultural issues in pediatric cancer was conducted. Information was organized around several clinically driven themes. Results: Cultural factors influenced many aspects of the cancer experience including illness representations, reaction to diagnosis, illness disclosure patterns, complementary and alternative medicine use, management of medical procedures, coping strategies, and end of life issues. Conclusion: Increased awareness of cultural factors is needed to improve clinical care and reduce health disparities. Specific strategies to approach cultural differences are provided to enhance patient and family care from diagnosis to cure/end of life.
Knowledge and Risk Perception of Late Effects Among Childhood Cancer Survivors and Parents Before and After Visiting a Childhood Cancer Survivor Clinic
Authors: Cherven Brooke , Mertens Ann , Meacham Lillian R. , Williamson Rebecca , Boring Cathy , Wasilewski-Masker Karen
Published: July 2014

Survivors of childhood cancer are at risk for a variety of treatment-related late effects and require lifelong individualized surveillance for early detection of late effects. This study assessed knowledge and perceptions of late effects risk before and after a survivor clinic visit. Young adult survivors (≥ 16 years) and parents of child survivors (< 16 years) were recruited prior to initial visit to a cancer survivor program. Sixty-five participants completed a baseline survey and 50 completed both a baseline and follow-up survey. Participants were found to have a low perceived likelihood of developing a late effect of cancer therapy and many incorrect perceptions of risk for individual late effects. Low knowledge before clinic (odds ratio = 9.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.7-92.8; P = .02) and low perceived likelihood of developing a late effect (odds ratio = 18.7; 95% confidence interval, 2.7-242.3; P = .01) were found to predict low knowledge of late effect risk at follow-up. This suggests that perceived likelihood of developing a late effect is an important factor in the individuals’ ability to learn about their risk and should be addressed before initiation of education.
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome due to targeted agents: vemurafinib among suspects!
Authors: Khurana Arushi , Dasanu Constantin A
Published: July 2014

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome features reversible cortical neurologic dysfunction and characteristic findings on brain imaging studies. This syndrome can be caused by several agents including traditional chemotherapy and immunosuppressive drugs. Targeted therapies such as agents binding vascular endothelial growth factor/VEGFR, CD20 and cytotoxic T-cell lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) antigens are also among the culprits. Vemurafenib is a BRAF gene inhibitor that has not been previously linked with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. We report herein the first such case and believe that further studies confirming this association are warranted. We further review the existing posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome cases associated with targeted therapies in the scientific literature.
Perivascular spaces in MS patients at 7 Tesla MRI: A marker of neurodegeneration?
Authors: Kilsdonk ID , Steenwijk MD , Pouwels PJW , Zwanenburg JJM , Visser F , Luijten PR , Geurts JJG , Barkhof F , Wattjes MP
Published: July 2014

Background:

Virchow-Robin spaces (VRS) are associated with vascular and neurodegenerative disease. In multiple sclerosis (MS), VRS have been associated with neuroinflammation. Ultra-high field imaging may be used to gain insight in these contradictory findings.

Objective:

The objective of this paper is to analyze VRS in MS patients using high-resolution 7 Tesla (T) MRI. Additionally, we investigated whether the widening of VRS is related to inflammatory or neurodegenerative aspects of MS.

Methods:

Thirty-four MS patients and 11 healthy controls were examined at 7T. Number and size of VRS were measured on three-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted images, and 3D fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images were used for MS lesion detection. Brain atrophy was quantified by computing supratentorial brain volume fraction (sBVF). VRS counts were correlated with clinical variables, lesion count and sBVF.

Results:

MS patients displayed more VRS (median 11) than healthy controls (median four), p = 0.001. VRS size did not differ between both groups. VRS count in MS patients was associated with sBVF (rho = −0.40, p = 0.02), but not with lesion count ( p = 0.22).

Conclusions:

The 7T MRI reveals increased numbers of VRS in MS. The finding that VRS are associated with supratentorial brain atrophy, but not with lesion count, suggests that VRS might rather serve as a neurodegenerative than an inflammatory marker in MS.
Detecting clinically-relevant changes in progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Bosma LVAE , Sonder JM , Kragt JJ , Polman CH , Uitdehaag BMJ
Published: July 2014

Objective:

To investigate which changes in different clinical outcome measures contribute most to increased disease impact, as reported by the patient, in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods:

From a cohort of prospectively-followed MS patients, we selected progressive patients with two visits, 4–6 years apart. We assessed long-term changes on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FW), 9-Hole Peg Test (9HPT) and Guy’s Neurological Disability Scale (GNDS). We defined the presence or absence of clinically meaningful change by using the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) as an anchor measure. We also studied change on recently identified sub-scales of GNDS.

Results:

Change on GNDS (especially the spinal-plus subscale) contributed most to increased disease impact. Also change on the T25FW contributed largely. Specific profiles of change in T25FW and MSIS seemed to exist (generally, a lower increase in disease impact in patients with longer disease duration and higher baseline impact/disability). In some patients a dissociation existed between increased impact, according to the MSIS-29, and objective physical worsening of the T25FW.

Conclusion:

These results support using GNDS (particularly the spinal-plus domain) and T25FW in outcome measurement in progressive MS. We suggest there is a relation between baseline clinical characteristics and an increased impact at follow-up. This may have implications for patient selection in trials for progressive MS.
Factors affecting health adaptation of Chinese adolescents with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Lo Fu-Sung , Hsu Hsiu-Yueh , Chen Bai-Hsiun , Lee Yann-Jinn , Chen Yu-Tsung , Wang Ruey-Hsia
Published: July 2014

Glycemic control and quality of life (QoL) are both considered indicators of health adaptation among adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The purpose of this study was to construct a path model addressing the influences of individual characteristics, school support, resilience, and self-care behaviors on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and QoL among adolescents with T1D in Taiwan. This was a cross-sectional design study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on individual characteristics, school support, resilience, self-care behaviors, and QoL. The latest HbA1c was collected from medical records. Data from 238 adolescents with T1D were analyzed using structural equation modeling to test the hypothesized path model. The findings indicated that self-care behaviors and resilience both directly influenced HbA1c and QoL. School support directly influenced QoL but indirectly influenced HbA1c. We suggest that improving self-care behaviors and resilience could be considered an appropriate intervention for enhancing the health adaptation of adolescents with T1D. Increasing school support might be a strategy to improve QoL among adolescents with T1D.
Long-term sickness absence during pregnancy and the gender balance of workplaces
Authors: Melsom Anne M
Published: July 2014

Aims: This study addresses how the gender composition of workplaces affects pregnant women’s sickness absence. It also assesses whether an observed association may be explaine by differential selection to female- or male-dominated workplaces. Methods: The analyses are based on Norwegian registry data from 2003–2011. Using Poisson regressions with detailed control for occupational categories, I examine whether the number of absence days are associated with the proportion of females at the workplace. I address possible selection effects by Poisson regressions with fixed individual effects using only within-individual variation on women with two or more pregnancies during the time window. Results: The analyses indicate a positive and significant relationship between the female proportion in workplaces and sickness absence rates during pregnancy. Analyses limited to within-individual variation also show positive and significant effects of similar strength, indicating that the observed relationship is not due to differential selection of absence-prone pregnant workers to female-dominated workplaces. Conclusions: The proportion of female individuals at workplaces is positively associated with sickness absence rates during pregnancy. This association is not likely explained by occupational nor individual characteristics. The results are consistent with absence culture theory and more lenient norms concerning sickness absence during pregnancy at female-dominated workplaces.
Ventilation effect on indoor radon–thoron levels in dwellings and correlation with soil exhalation rates
Authors: Chauhan R. P. , Kumar Amit , Chauhan Neetika , Joshi Manish , Aggarwal Praveen , Sahoo B. K.
Published: July 2014

This paper reports the measurements of indoor radon and thoron concentrations in selected Northern Indian dwellings (differing in ventilation rate). These were carried out using single entry pin hole based radon thoron dosimeters. In order to correlate the indoor levels with source term, the radon and thoron exhalation rates from soil samples collected from the same dwellings were also measured. Active measurement techniques with scintillation radon monitor and scintillation thoron monitor were used for exhalation measurements from soil sample. For thoron exhalation rate measurements, a small volume chamber was used. The indoor radon and thoron concentration in different rooms varied from 14 to 97 Bq/m3 and 23 to 189 Bq/m3, respectively. The radon mass exhalation and thoron mass emanation rates of soil samples varied from 28.2 to 91.2 mBq/kg/h and 3.42 to 12.1 mBq/kg/h, respectively. A weak correlation was found between indoor concentration and soil exhalation rates for these dwellings. Indoor radon concentrations from various rooms in the dwellings were lower than the limit (100 Bq/m3) recommended by WHO (2009).
The Performance of Security as a Site of Biopolitical Struggle
Authors: Sylvia Polly
Published: July 2014

The “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign was and is a performance of security. It is a campaign that attempts to shape what commuters see and respond to. It is a campaign that attempts to shape ideas concerning security; but, more importantly, it is a campaign which requires bodies to perform the notions of security that it is attempting to define, redefine, and/or, in a Foucaultian sense, normalize. Based on my research, this article will explore this particular performance of security as a site of biopolitics. In the logic of security that this campaign performs, how do bodies respond to it? How do they incorporate that logic into their own movement? How do they challenge it? What does the movement of this campaign and the bodies that move along with it suggest for current debates within biopolitics regarding security? These are the questions that this article will seek to explore.
Effects of hypercapnia on T cells in lung ischemia/reperfusion injury after lung transplantation
Authors: Gao Wei , Liu Dongdong , Li Di , Che Xiangyu , Cui Guangxiao
Published: July 2014

T cells play a key role in lung ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI). Hypercapnia has been indicated to decrease IRI and inhibit immunity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of hypercapnia on T cells during lung IRI and to identify the underlying mechanism of these effects. In the in vivo study, rat recipients of lung transplants were randomized into a control group M and a hypercapnia group H. Peripheral blood T cells and cytokines were analyzed during reperfusion. In the in vitro study, we analyzed the T cells and cytokine levels in culture media from phytohemagglutinin-stimulated T cells from normal rats, stimulated under the normal (group C), hypercapnic (group H), or buffer hypercapnic (group BH) condition. In the in vivo study, the CD3+/CD4+T-cell ratio and interleukin (IL)-2, IL-8, interferon (IFN)-γ, intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, and P-selectin levels were decreased, but the IL-4 and IL-10 levels were increased, after reperfusion in group H compared to group M. In the in vitro study, groups H and BH exhibited a decreased CD2+/CD28+ratio and IL-2 and IFN-γ levels, but elevated IL-4 and IL-10 levels, compared to group C. The CD2+/CD28+ratio was not different between groups BH and H; however, group H evidenced a lower IL-2 level and higher IL-4 and IL-10 levels compared to group BH. Hypercapnia decreased the CD3+/CD4+T-cell ratio and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, but promoted anti-inflammatory factors in lung IRI. Hypercapnia inhibits CD2 and CD28 in T cells by CO2and modulates T-cell cytokines via acidosis.
Using ultrasound to teach anatomy in the undergraduate medical curriculum: an evaluation of the experiences of tutors and medical students
Authors: Patten Debra
Published: July 2014

This paper describes the experiences of staff and students at two UK medical schools, who introduced portable ultrasound (PU) as an imaging technology to deliver clinical anatomy teaching and to aid skill development in interpretation of cross-sectional anatomy (CSA). A sonographer contributed to curriculum design and teaching, but mostly anatomy tutors delivered the teaching. This case study method evaluates staff and student perspectives on the ultrasound-based anatomy teaching. Quantitative data and qualitative data were collected and analysed. Staff were positive about the experience. They described their expectations for students and solutions for practical issues regarding the teaching, but were concerned about their competency in scanning and wanted bespoke training for sonoanatomy teaching. Curriculum development was accelerated through engagement with a sonographer and an ultrasound champion. Students were extremely positive about their experience; they valued the expertise of a sonographer who taught more challenging sonoanatomy, but were equally positive regarding teaching sessions led by well-trained anatomy tutors who taught more simple sonoanatomy. Students affirmed most tutors’ expectations that ultrasound could reinforce existing anatomical knowledge, added clinical contextualisation, but not that use of ultrasound (US) assisted in interpreting CSA. Students valued the introduction to the technology and found sonoimage interpretation challenging, but not insurmountable. Students wanted more instruction on ultrasound physics, an expansion of ultrasound curriculum, with smaller groups and opportunities to scan volunteers. These data support the case for the use of PU to deliver anatomy teaching and to prime medical students for later clinical encounters with PU.