bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactive compounds and sensory attributes of sour cherry puree sweetened with natural sweeteners
Authors: Nowicka Paulina , Wojdyło Aneta
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to describe a phytochemical profile, including phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity, colour and sensory quality attributes (colour, aroma, consistency, sweetness intensity and desirability) of a sour cherry puree (SCP) supplemented with different natural sweeteners. Supplementation of SCP with the sweeteners only slightly affected polyphenol content, which was by 9% (SCP with steviol glycosides) to 26% (SCP with erythritol) lower than in pure SCP. Furthermore, the products with natural sweeteners were characterised for the lowest antioxidant activity than the SCP sample, especially in SCP with erythritol and xylitol. In addition to having high content of polyphenols and high antioxidant activity, these products were also attractive to consumers, especially when supplemented with xylitol, palm sugar or sucrose, but not with Luo Han Kuo fruit, which was found unacceptable. The results showed that most of the obtained SCPs had very promising and interesting phytochemical properties and sensory profiles.
Making the transition from pharmacy student to pharmacist: Australian interns’ perceptions of professional identity formation
Authors: Noble Christy , Coombes Ian , Nissen Lisa , Shaw Paul N , Clavarino Alexandra
Published: November 2014

Objectives

The experience of transitioning from university to practice influences professional identity formation. It is unclear how this transitioning experience influences pharmacy interns' professional identities. This study aims to examine pharmacy interns' perceptions of their transition from university to the workplace and the influence this had on their pharmacist identities.

Methods

A qualitative approach using in-depth interviews was adopted for this study. Fifteen interns (community and hospital) from one school of pharmacy in Australia were interviewed. Questions were asked about the nature of their current intern role, their university experiences, how they saw themselves as pharmacists and their perceptions of the transition to practice.

Key findings

The interns interviewed entered the workplace valuing patient-focused aspects of practice and contributing to patient care. The nature of work meant there were limited opportunities to enact these aspects of their professional identities. The interns were challenged by interactions with patients and doctors, and experienced difficulties reconciling this with their university-derived professional identities. Also, the interns lacked the confidence and strategies to overcome these challenges. Some were exploring alternative ways of being pharmacists.

Conclusions

This paper argues that graduates' experience of the transition to practice was challenging. This was due to nascent professional identities formed in university and a lack of workplace experiences enabling patient-centred practices. The interns' formation of professional identities was highly responsive to the context of work. To facilitate the development of Australian patient-centred pharmacy practice, supporting professional identity formation should be a focus within pharmacy education.
Evaluation of organizational support for use of online information resources in nursing care
Authors: Kahouei Mehdi , Ahmadi Zahra , Kazemzadeh Farzaneh
Published: November 2014

Objectives

While there is general agreement concerning the barriers to use online information resources in nursing decisions, there have not been any studies that demonstrate how healthcare organizations have overcome these obstacles in developing countries. The purpose of this present study was to evaluate organizational support of healthcare organizations after introducing information technology for the use of online information resources in nursing care.

Methods

This study was performed on nurses and nursing students in hospitals affiliated to the Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Iran.

Results

The findings showed that the use of online information resources was not adequately supported by healthcare social networks and the role of leadership has received minimal attention.

Conclusions

There appears to be little confidence in the usefulness of evidence‐based practice (EBP) in nursing care in Iranian society. The development of organizational norms for EBP behavior within an organization is important, and in order to monitor the development of these behaviors, the cultural competence in the healthcare institutions should be assessed and measured. However, it is far more difficult to develop a robust design, which encompasses the implementation of EBP across an entire organization. Such studies are highly complex and would need to be adapted as the organization changed, in addition, they would be likely to take considerable time to complete. Nevertheless, such studies are essential if a full understanding of organizational approaches to promoting EBP in developing countries is to occur.
Reduction of preanalytical errors in laboratory by establishment and application of training system
Authors: Ying Li Hong , Yang Yong Chang , Huang Wen Fang , Li Yuan Feng , Song Pin , Chen Li , Lan Yu
Published: November 2014

Objectives

Errors in preanalytical phase occupied for almost half of total errors in clinical laboratory, and the causes are related to medical staff's quality awareness and behaviors. In order to reduce the preanalytical errors in our hospital, we established and applied a training system to improve the situation.

Methods

The disqualified sample types and major causes of errors in the preanalytical phase were investigated in clinical laboratory department from September 2008 to August 2009. In the following year, we established and applied a training system to affect the quality awareness and behaviors of medical staff. Questionnaire investigation was analyzed to illustrate the changes of respondents’ quality awareness and behavior, and the preanalytical errors were reanalyzed according to different departments to evaluate the effects of the intervention measures.

Results

The total disqualification rate in the preanalytical phase obtained from September 2008 to August 2009 was 1.36%, and the major types of disqualified samples were coagulation of anticoagulant sample, sample inadequacy, sample container error, sample information error, and sample type error. After application of established training system, respondents’ quality awareness on preanalytical samples changed dominantly, and respondents’ own behavior and behavior to others also changed notably. The total disqualification rate in preanalytical phase dropped to 0.94%, among 33 clinical departments, the preanalytical errors in 25 departments decreased to various degrees, and 10 departments had overall decreasing amplitude over 50%.

Conclusions

The overall effect of the application of established training system is very good, and the disqualification rate of the major departments decrease to various degrees.
Molecular Phylogeny and Morphology of Leannia veloxifera n. gen. et sp. Unveils a New Lineage of Monothalamous Foraminifera
Authors: Apothéloz‐Perret‐Gentil Laure , Pawlowski Jan
Published: November 2014

Monothalamous (single‐chambered) foraminifera have long been considered as the “poor cousins” of multichambered species, which calcareous and agglutinated tests dominate in the fossil record. This view is currently changing with environmental DNA surveys showing that the monothalamids may be as diverse as hard‐shelled foraminifera. Yet, the majority of numerous molecular lineages revealed by eDNA studies remain anonymous. Here, we describe a new monothalamous species and genus isolated from the sample of sea grass collected in Gulf of Eilat (Red Sea). This new species, named Leannia veloxifera, is characterized by a tiny ovoid theca (about 50–100 μm) composed of thin organic wall, with two opposite apertures. The examined individuals are multinucleated and show very active reticulopodial movement. Phylogenetic analyses of SSU rDNA, actin, and beta‐tubulin (ß‐tubulin) show that the species represents a novel lineage branching separately from other monothalamous foraminifera. Interestingly, the SSU rDNA sequence of the new species is very similar to an environmental foraminiferal sequence from Bahamas, suggesting that the novel lineage may represent a group of shallow‐water tropical allogromiids, poorly studied until now.
Accuracy of the Wells Clinical Prediction Rule for Pulmonary Embolism in Older Ambulatory Adults
Authors: Schouten Henrike J. , Geersing Geert‐Jan , Oudega Ruud , van Delden Johannes J.M. , Moons Karel G.M. , Koek Huiberdina L.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To determine whether the Wells clinical prediction rule for pulmonary embolism (PE), which produces a point score based on clinical features and the likelihood of diagnoses other than PE, combined with normal D‐dimer testing can be used to exclude PE in older unhospitalized adults.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Primary care and nursing homes.

Participants

Older adults (≥60) clinically suspected of having a PE (N = 294, mean age 76, 44% residing in a nursing home).

Measurements

The presence of PE was confirmed using a composite reference standard including computed tomography and 3‐month follow‐up. The proportion of individuals with an unlikely risk of PE was calculated according to the Wells rule (≤4 points) plus a normal qualitative point‐of‐care D‐dimer test (efficiency) and the presence of symptomatic PE during 3 months of follow‐up within these patients (failure rate).

Results

Pulmonary embolism occurred in 83 participants (28%). Eighty‐five participants had an unlikely risk according to the Wells rule and a normal D‐dimer test (efficiency 29%), five of whom experienced a nonfatal PE during 3 months of follow‐up (failure rate = 5.9%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.5–13%). According to a refitted diagnostic strategy for older adults, 69 had a low risk of PE (24%), two of whom had PE (failure rate = 2.9%, 95% CI = 0.8–10%).

Conclusion

The use of the well‐known and widely used Wells rule (original or refitted) does not guarantee safe exclusion of PE in older unhospitalized adults with suspected PE. This may lead to discussion among professionals as to whether the original or revised Wells rule is useful for elderly outpatients.
Nursing practice in the prevention of pressure ulcers: an observational study of German Hospitals
Authors: Hoviattalab Khadijeh , Hashemizadeh Haydeh , D'Cruz Gibson , Halfens Ruud JG , Dassen Theo
Published: November 2014

Aims and objectives

The study aimed to establish the range and extent of preventive interventions undertaken by nurses for patients who are at high risk of developing or currently have a pressure ulcer.

Background

Since 2000, the German National Expert Standard for the prevention of pressure ulcers has provided evidence‐based recommendations, but limited studies have been published on its adherence in hospitals. There are also limited observational studies that investigated whether patients who are at risk of or have pressure ulcers are provided with appropriate preventative measures.

Design

A nonparticipant observational descriptive design was used.

Methods

A sample of 32 adult patients who were at high risk of developing or currently had a pressure ulcer were observed during all shifts in medical and surgical wards in two general hospitals in Germany.

Results

A range of preventive interventions that were in line with the German National Expert Standard was observed. The most frequent preventive measures were ‘cleaning the patients’ skin’ and ‘minimizing exposure to moisture’ that were undertaken in more than 90% of all patients. The least frequent measures were ‘patient and relative education’, ‘assessment and recording of nutritional status’.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the pressure ulcers preventive interventions as set out in the German National Expert Standard were not fully implemented. The study highlights the need for further studies on the barriers that impede the undertaking of the interventions that may prevent the development or deterioration of pressure ulcers and the delivery of evidence‐based preventative care.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study provides an insight into the extent of pressure ulcers preventive practices used by nurses. The results may serve as a basis for developing an effective strategy to improve nursing practice in this area and the promotion of evidence‐based practice. However, our results refer to two general hospitals and for a broader population, further studies with larger data samples are needed.
Experiences of diabetes self‐management: a focus group study among Australians with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Carolan Mary , Holman Jessica , Ferrari Michelle
Published: November 2014

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences and concerns of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, in a predominantly low socio‐economic setting.

Background

Currently, approximately 1 million Australians have diabetes and rates have more than doubled since 1989. Type 2 diabetes mellitus accounts for approximately 85% of diabetes cases. Risk factors include obesity, older age, low socio‐economic status, sedentary lifestyle and ethnicity. Older individuals from low socio‐economic backgrounds are particularly at risk of both developing and of mismanaging their condition.

Design

Exploratory qualitative design.

Methods

Focus groups were used to collect data from 22 individuals, aged 40 to more than 70 years, with type 2 diabetes mellitus, who were attending local health services for their diabetes care. Focus groups ranged in size from four to eight individuals and all were recorded, transcribed and analysed. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach.

Results

Participants described their experiences of managing their diabetes as emotionally, physically and socially challenging. Data analysis revealed four main themes including: (1) diabetes the silent disease; (2) a personal journey (3) the work of managing diabetes; and (4) access to resources and services. Throughout, participants highlighted the impact of diabetes on the family, and the importance of family members in providing support and encouragement to assist their self‐management efforts.

Conclusions

Participants in this study were generally satisfied with their diabetes care but identified a need for clear simple instruction immediately post‐diagnosis, followed by a need for additional informal information when they had gained some understanding of their condition.

Relevance to clinical practice

Findings reveal a number of unmet information and support needs for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In particular, it is important for healthcare professionals and family members to recognise the significant emotional burden that diabetes imposes, and the type and quantity of information individuals with diabetes prefer. It is also important to consider levels of health literacy in the community when developing diabetes‐related information or programmes.
Randomized prospective study comparing Monarc and Miniarc suburethral slings
Authors: Foote Andrew
Published: November 2014

Aim

Recently a miniature version of the Monarc suburethral sling has been introduced. This paper aims to evaluate the postoperative recovery, effectiveness and complications of these two types of suburethral sling.

Methods

This was a prospective randomized series of 50 female patients with stress incontinence who underwent either a Monarc or Miniarc suburethral sling.

Results

The only significant intraoperative difference was a shorter operation time for the Miniarc (18.8 vs 22.4 min). The success rates were similar at 6 weeks and 6 months.

Conclusion

There were no significant differences between the Miniarc and Monarc, except for a significantly shorter Miniarc sling operating time.
Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratios in patients with endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer
Authors: Mete Ural Ülkü , Şehitoğlu İbrahim , Bayoğlu Tekin Yeşim , Kir Şahin Figen
Published: November 2014

Aim

Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and platelet distribution width (PDW) may indicate the systemic inflammatory response associated with various cancers. We aimed to investigate the relationship between NLR, PLR, PDW and endometrial pathologies including hyperplasia and cancer.

Methods

In this study, 472 cases who underwent endometrial biopsy were included. Three groups were constituted with respect to biopsy results: group 1, endometrial cancer patients (n = 54); group 2, endometrial hyperplasia patients (n = 152); and group 3, patients with normal biopsy results (n = 281). White blood cell and platelet counts as well as NLR, PLR and PDW recorded from complete blood counts obtained on the same day of biopsy were compared in the three groups.

Results

Endometrial cancer patients were significantly older than the cases in the other two groups (P < 0.001). The NLR in group 1 was significantly higher than group 3 (P = 0.02). However, there was no difference between the three groups with respect to PLR (P = 0.167). PDW was increased in group 1 compared to group 3 (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Results of our study have shown that NLR, PLR and PDW are simple, readily available and robust inflammatory markers that may be used in the management of endometrial pathologies. However, the actual predictive potential of these biomarkers still warrants further trials.
Comparison of severe pelvic inflammatory disease, pyosalpinx and tubo‐ovarian abscess
Authors: Kim Ho Yeon , Yang Jeong In , Moon ChongSoo
Published: November 2014

Aim

Inflammation of the upper genital tract causes pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may be complicated by pelvic abscesses, such as pyosalpinx and tubo‐ovarian abscess (TOA). This study aimed to determine the clinical differences between pyosalpinx and TOA in patients with PID.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 458 female patients who were admitted to Hallym University Kang Dong Sacred Heart Hospital for a clinical diagnosis of PID from 1 January 2007 to 30 April 2012. Sociodemographic, clinical and laboratory data were compared among the non‐abscess, pyosalpinx, and TOA groups.

Results

We identified 110 patients (24%) diagnosed with pelvic abscess associated with PID, including 34 with pyosalpinx and 76 with TOA. The pyosalpinx group had shorter hospital stays (P = 0.007), lower C‐reactive protein levels (P = 0.015), smaller mass sizes (P < 0.001), and fewer surgical interventions (P < 0.001) than the TOA group.

Conclusions

Pyosalpinx is a less severe form of PID that leads to shorter hospital stays and more favorable outcomes than TOA.
Research information for minors: Suitable formats and readability. A systematic review
Authors: Grootens‐Wiegers Petronella , de Vries Martine C , van den Broek Jos M
Published: November 2014

As children age, their capacity to consent or dissent to research participation increases. Numerous regulations and guidelines require that children should receive information ‘according to their capacity of understanding’. In order to gain more insight in the quality of patient information forms for minors, a systematic literature search was performed. Two aspects of quality will be analysed in this paper: the effect of format on understanding and the readability of text in the documents. A systematic search was executed in PubMed, Embase and PsycINFO. Seventeen papers on format were included. Interventions testing information formats indicate that improvement is possible, but outcome measurement varied per study and no apparently successful intervention was repeated. Only three readability papers were found, all indicating a readability gap between patient information forms and children's actual reading level. The results indicate an urgent need for further research on how to adequately inform minors about clinical trials.
Oxic microshield and local pHenhancement protectsZostera muellerifrom sediment derived hydrogen sulphide
Authors: Brodersen Kasper Elgetti , Nielsen Daniel Aagren , Ralph Peter J. , Kühl Michael
Published: November 2014

Seagrass is constantly challenged with transporting sufficient O2from above‐ to belowground tissue via aerenchyma in order to maintain aerobic metabolism and provide protection against phytotoxins.

Electrochemical microsensors were used in combination with a custom‐made experimental chamber to analyse the belowground biogeochemical microenvironment ofZostera muelleriunder changing environmental conditions.

Measurements revealed high radial O2release of up to 500 nmol O2 cm−2 h−1from the base of the leaf sheath, maintaining ac. 300‐μm‐wide plant‐mediated oxic microzone and thus protecting the vital meristematic regions of the rhizome from reduced phytotoxic metabolites such as hydrogen sulphide (H2S). H2S intrusion was prevented through passive diffusion of O2to belowground tissue from leaf photosynthesis in light, as well as from the surrounding water column into the flow‐exposed plant parts during darkness. Under water column hypoxia, high belowground H2S concentrations at the tissue surface correlated with the inability to sustain the protecting oxic microshield around the meristematic regions of the rhizome. We also found increased pHlevels in the immediate rhizosphere ofZ. muelleri, which may contribute to further detoxification of H2S through shifts in the chemical speciation of sulphide.

Zostera muellerican modify the geochemical conditions in its immediate rhizosphere, thereby reducing its exposure to H2S.
RGS16 Restricts the Pro‐Inflammatory Response of Monocytes
Authors: Suurväli J. , Pahtma M. , Saar R. , Paalme V. , Nutt A. , Tiivel T. , Saaremäe M. , Fitting C. , Cavaillon J.M. , Rüütel Boudinot S.
Published: November 2014

Immune cells express powerful and harmful effectors that require tight regulation. Heterotrimeric G proteins are critical mediators in translating extracellular signals into cell responses, which need a fine‐tuned regulation for the control of cell activation. Regulator of G‐protein signalling 16 (RGS16) has been identified as a key factor of G protein‐mediated activation in lymphocytes, modulating inflammatory and survival responses of various cell types. However, data about the expression of this regulatory protein in monocytes are scarce, and it has remained unclear whether activation and migration of these cells are regulated by RGS16. In this study, the impact of RGS16 on the production of inflammatory cytokines by activated human monocytes was investigated in vitro using the human promonocytic cell line THP‐1 as a model. Gain and loss of function experiments showed that RGS16 overexpression reduces the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNFα, while RGS16 knockdown by RNAi upregulates IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNFα but not IL‐8. RGS16 knockdown was also shown to enhance Pam3‐mediated induction of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10. Our results indicate that RGS16 restricts the activation‐induced pro‐inflammatory profile in myeloid cells.
Using Productive Disposition to Differentiate Between Students' Level of Precision When Critiquing a Peer's Work
Authors: Gilbert Melissa C.
Published: November 2014

This study examined the productive disposition of pre‐algebra students who demonstrated similar knowledge of the focal content but varied in other academic behaviors expected in the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM). Specifically, the study considered students' attention to precision when critiquing a peer's work. The comprehensive definition of productive disposition used included task values (interest, utility), an ability belief (efficacy), three personal achievement goals, and negative emotions. As hypothesized, the 61 students who provided a more precise critique reported higher productive disposition (in particular, significantly higher mastery‐approach personal achievement goals and less frequent negative emotions) than the 79 students who provided a basic critique. These findings illustrate how productive disposition can inform assessments of mathematical competence within the CCSSM recently implemented across the United States.
Ratcheting Prediction of 1070 and 16MnR Steel Alloys Under Uniaxial Asymmetric Stress Cycles By Means of Ohno–Wang and Ahmadzadeh–Varvani Kinematic Hardening Rules
Authors: Ahmadzadeh G. R. , Hamidinejad S. M. , Varvani-Farahani A.
Published: November 2014

The present study predicts ratcheting response of 1070 and 16MnR steel samples using nonlinear kinematic hardening rules of Ohno–Wang (O–W) and Ahmadzadeh–Varvani (A–V) under uniaxial stress cycles. The ratcheting values predicted based on the O–W model were noticeably influenced by the magnitude of exponents and the number of backstress components. Taking into account both material and cyclic stress level dependent coefficients, the A–V hardening rule offered a simple framework to predict ratcheting strain over loading cycles. A comparative study of these hardening rules to assess ratcheting of 1070 and 16MnR steel samples undergoing uniaxial loading conditions resulted in a close agreement of the A–V and O–W models. The choice of hardening rules in the assessment of materials ratcheting was further discussed based on the complexity of the hardening rule, number of constants/coefficients required to characterize ratcheting response, and central processing unit (CPU) time required to run the models.
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the cauda equina
Authors: Broen Martijn , Draak Tim , Riedl Robert G , Weber Wim E J
Published: November 2014

Primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma is a rare form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The clinical presentation is variable, depending on its localisation within the nervous system. Only 1% of primary CNS lymphoma emerges in the spinal cord, and the prevalence of primary lymphoma of the cauda equina is unknown, but probably even rarer. Diagnosing primary lymphoma of the cauda equina is difficult, since it can mimic other more common disorders such as a herniated disc, especially in its early stages. Here we present two cases of primary cauda equina lymphoma in which diagnostic work up took a long time, as the final diagnosis was only reached after a nerve root biopsy.
Criteria for defining the required duration of a creep test
Authors: Tomanovic Z. , Miladinovic B. , Zivaljevic S.
Published: November 2014

Time-dependent behaviour of some types of rocks is of the “creep” type, in particular in underground works, mining works, and in measuring procedures of rock properties. Tests used for defining material parameters or parameters relevant to defining a failure or behaviour of a material in the plastic state are usually of significantly shorter duration than the creep test. The duration of creep tests may vary from several hours to several years depending on the material being tested and the phenomenon that is the subject of the research. The required duration of the creep test, which provides reliable definition of the time-dependent material parameters of the rheological model, is a theoretical but also practical issue. The theoretical issue relates to establishing criteria for defining the required duration of the creep test. The practical issue relates to minimizing the duration of the creep test from which the necessary material parameters of the rock mass are obtained for correct numerical calculations. This paper proposes criteria for defining the required duration of a rock creep test, based on analysis of the results of unconfined uniaxial compression tests performed on marly rock samples.
Investigation and analysis of microbiological communities in natural Ophiocordyceps sinensis
Authors: Xia Fei , Liu Yan , Shen Guang-Rong , Guo Lian-Xian , Zhou Xuan-Wei
Published: November 2014

Ophiocordyceps sinensis is a fungus that parasitizes caterpillars, and more than 30 species of filamentous fungi have been isolated from its fruiting body. However, its microbiological diversity remains unclear. Based on the clone library and quantitative PCR techniques, the bacterial flora and mycobiota of 3 different samples (larva, stromata/sclerotia, and surface soil) from natural O. sinensis specimens were investigated using primer sets that targeted the 16S rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA. The results showed that the abundance of bacterial and fungal communities in the soil attached to the surface of O. sinensis was (6.4 ± 1.4) × 106 and (6.0 ± 0.3) × 107 copies/g dry matter, respectively, which was the highest compared with that in the larva and stromal samples. The main groups of bacteria in the O. sinensis samples were Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, while Ascomycota was the most dominant fungal group in the 3 samples. At the genus level, Geomyces, Phoma, and Trichocladium were the dominant genera in the larval sample, while Geomyces and Cladosporium were the dominant genera in the stromal sample. In conclusion, a great number of bacterial and fungal species were present in naturally occurring O. sinensis specimens, and there was a high diversity of bacterial and fungal communities. These findings contribute to the understanding of the bacterial and fungal community structure of this valuable medicinal fungus and lay the foundation for the future discovery of new medicinal microorganism resources.
Information entropy of activation process: Application for low-temperature fluctuations of a myoglobin molecule
Authors: Stepanov A. V.
Published: November 2014

Activation process for unimolecular reaction has been considered by means of radiation theory. The formulae of information entropy of activation have been derived for the Boltzmann–Arrhenius model and the activation process model (APM). The physical meaning of this entropy has been determined. It is a measure of conversion of thermal radiation energy to mechanical energy that moves atoms in a molecule during elementary activation act. It is also a measure of uncertainty of this energy conversion. The uncertainty is due to unevenness of distribution function representing the activation process. It has been shown that Arrhenius dependence is caused by the entropy change. Efficiency comparison of the two models under consideration for low-temperature fluctuations of a myoglobin molecule structure shows that the APM should be favored over the Boltzmann–Arrhenius one.
Parameters Investigation of Mathematical Model of Productivity for Automated Line with Availability by DMAIC Methodology
Authors: Chan Sin Tan , Usubamatov Ryspek , Amin Hamzas Mohd Fidzwan B. Md. , Kin Wai Low , Keat Yao Teh , Bahari Muhammad Syahril
Published: November 2014

Automated line is widely applied in industry especially for mass production with less variety product. Productivity is one of the important criteria in automated line as well as industry which directly present the outputs and profits. Forecast of productivity in industry accurately in order to achieve the customer demand and the forecast result is calculated by using mathematical model. Mathematical model of productivity with availability for automated line has been introduced to express the productivity in terms of single level of reliability for stations and mechanisms. Since this mathematical model of productivity with availability cannot achieve close enough productivity compared to actual one due to lack of parameters consideration, the enhancement of mathematical model is required to consider and add the loss parameters that is not considered in current model. This paper presents the investigation parameters of productivity losses investigated by using DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) concept and PACE Prioritization Matrix (Priority, Action, Consider, and Eliminate). The investigated parameters are important for further improvement of mathematical model of productivity with availability to develop robust mathematical model of productivity in automated line.
Analysis and Comparison of Trends in Extreme Temperature Indices in Riyadh City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 1985–2010
Authors: Alghamdi Ali S. , Moore Todd W.
Published: November 2014

This study employed the time series of thirteen extreme temperature indices over the period 1985–2010 to analyze and compare temporal trends at two weather stations in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia. The trend analysis showed warming of the local air for the city. Significant increasing trends were found in annual average maximum and minimum temperatures, maximum of minimum temperature, warm nights, and warm days for an urban and a rural station. Significant decreasing trends were detected in the number of cool nights and cool days at both stations. Comparison of the trends suggests that, in general, the station closer to the city center warmed at a slower rate than the rural station. Significant differences were found in a lot of the extreme temperature indices, suggesting that urbanization and other factors may have had negative effects on the rate of warming at the urban station.
Spontaneous Aching Pain and Peculiar Involuntary Movements: A Case Report of Painful Legs and Moving Toes and Review of the Literature
Authors: Fan Yang-yi , Xu Yan , Gao Xu-guang
Published: November 2014

Painful legs and moving toes (PLMT) is a rare syndrome characterized by spontaneous neuropathic pain and peculiar involuntary movements in the lower limbs, especially the toes and feet. As it is a relatively rare disorder worldwide, the exact pathophysiology still remains a mystery. Until recently, numerous methods of clinical treatments have been tried; however, the success rate of the therapies is still very low. Here, we report a case of PLMT and also summarize the recent clinical and research literatures regarding clinical presentation, electrophysiological features, etiology, treatment methods, and prognosis of this disorder. Doctors should be aware of this rare syndrome in a patient with painful and/or restless legs. On the other hand, multiple clinical treatments should be tried, even those which usually produce a poor outcome.
Supervised Wavelet Method to Predict Patient Survival from Gene Expression Data
Authors: Farhadian Maryam , Lisboa Paulo J. G. , Moghimbeigi Abbas , Poorolajal Jalal , Mahjub Hossein
Published: November 2014

In microarray studies, the number of samples is relatively small compared to the number of genes per sample. An important aspect of microarray studies is the prediction of patient survival based on their gene expression profile. This naturally calls for the use of a dimension reduction procedure together with the survival prediction model. In this study, a new method based on combining wavelet approximation coefficients and Cox regression was presented. The proposed method was compared with supervised principal component and supervised partial least squares methods. The different fitted Cox models based on supervised wavelet approximation coefficients, the top number of supervised principal components, and partial least squares components were applied to the data. The results showed that the prediction performance of the Cox model based on supervised wavelet feature extraction was superior to the supervised principal components and partial least squares components. The results suggested the possibility of developing new tools based on wavelets for the dimensionally reduction of microarray data sets in the context of survival analysis.
Increased Numbers of Tryptase-Positive Mast Cells in the Healthy and Sun-Protected Skin of Tobacco Smokers
Authors: Kaukinen Antti , Fitzgibbon Anina , Oikarinen Aarne , Hinkkanen Lauri , Viinikanoja Marjut , Harvima Ilkka T.
Published: November 2014

Background: Tobacco smoking may cause skin aging through mast cell proteinases. Objective: To compare the numbers of mast cells showing tryptase and chymase in the healthy-looking skin of smokers and non-smokers. Methods: The study subjects consisted of 80 males, 42 of whom were smokers and 38 non-smokers. A skin biopsy from the medial arm was processed for immunohistochemical staining of tryptase and chymase, as well as chymase inhibitors alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor (alpha-1-PI) and alpha-1-antichymotrypsin (alpha-1-AC). Results: The number of tryptase+ mast cells was significantly higher in the smoker group (84 ± 32 cells/mm2) than in the non-smoker group (70 ± 32 cells/mm2) (p = 0.044). Likewise, the number of chymase+ mast cells was higher in the smoker group (89 ± 20 vs. 80 ± 22 cells/mm2), though statistical significance was not reached (p = 0.07). No significant difference was observed in alpha-1-PI+ and alpha-1-AC+ cells. Conclusion: Especially tryptase, but probably also chymase, may have an influence on the skin of smokers, such as wrinkling and aging.
Reliability and Validity of the Spanish Version of the Substance Dependence Severity Scale
Authors: Vélez-Moreno Antonio , González-Saiz Francisco , Rojas Antonio J. , Torrico-Linares Esperanza , Fernández-Calderón Fermín , Ramírez-López Juan , Lozano Óscar M.
Published: November 2014

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to estimate the reliability and provide evidence for the validity of the Spanish version of the Substance Dependence Severity Scale (SDSS). Methods: A total of 211 substance abusers recruited at a public center that provides treatment for substance-related disorders in an outpatient setting were assessed. Reliability was estimated by Cronbach's α and test-retest. Validity evidence was studied by analyzing the relationships with the European Addiction Severity Index (EuropASI) and Health-Related Quality of Life for Drug Abusers (HRQoLDA). Results: Adequate reliability coefficients were found for the dependence scales of all addressed substances (α = 0.737 to 0.877; test-retest r = 0.796-0.952). Low internal consistency was found for the abuse scales (α = 0.329-0.694), and adequate test-retest coefficients on alcohol, cocaine and heroin (test-retest r = 0.708-0.902). The reliability of the cannabis abuse scales was inadequate. The SDSS scores showed significant relationships with the EuropASI and HRQoLDA dimensions. Conclusions: The psychometric analyses validate the use of the severity of dependence scales. The SDSS abuse scales must be used taking the limitations detected into consideration.
Effect of Rivastigmine or Memantine Add-on Therapy Is Affected by Butyrylcholinesterase Genotype in Patients with Probable Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Han Hyun Jeong , Kwon Jay C. , Kim Jung Eun , Kim Shin Gyeom , Park Jong-Moo , Park Kyung Won , Park Key Chung , Park Kee Hyung , Moon So Young , Seo Sang Won , Choi Seong Hye , Cho Soo-Jin
Published: November 2014

Background: The K variant of butyrylcholinesterase (BCHE-K) exhibits a reduced acetylcholine-hydrolyzing capacity; so the clinical response to rivastigmine may differ in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients with the BCHE-K gene. Objective: To investigate the clinical response to rivastigmine transdermal patch monotherapy or memantine plus rivastigmine transdermal patch therapy in AD patients based on the BCHE-K gene. Methods: A total of 146 probable AD patients consented to genetic testing for butyrylcholinesterase and underwent the final efficacy evaluations. Responders were defined as patients with an equal or better score on the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog) at 16 weeks compared to their baseline score. Results:BCHE-K carriers showed a lower responder rate on the ADAS-cog than non-carriers (38.2 vs. 61.7%, p = 0.02), and this trend was evident in AD patients with apolipoprotein E I 4 (35 vs. 60.7%, p = 0.001). The presence of the BCHE-K allele predicted a worse response on the ADAS-cog (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.14-0.87), after adjusting for demographic and baseline cognitive and functional variables. Conclusion: The BCHE-K genotype may be related to a poor cognitive response to rivastigmine patch or memantine add-on therapy, especially in the presence of apolipoprotein E I 4. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Frontal Corpus Callosum Alterations in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy but Not in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Rosskopf Johannes , Müller Hans-Peter , Huppertz Hans-Jürgen , Ludolph Albert C. , Pinkhardt Elmar H. , Kassubek Jan
Published: November 2014

Background: Frontal lobe involvement is considered a clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) feature in later stages of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Objective: Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was used to investigate the integrity of frontal pathways in PSP and Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Methods: DTI and 3-D MRI were performed in 15 PSP patients (parkinsonism subtype: n = 8; Richardson subtype: n = 7), 15 PD patients, and 18 matched controls. DTI analysis was performed in order to identify differences along frontal white matter structures including the corpus callosum (CC) and was complemented by atlas-based volumetry and planimetry. Results: Significantly reduced regional fractional anisotropy was observed for PSP patients versus controls and PSP versus PD patients, respectively, in frontal areas including the area II of the CC and bilaterally in the callosal radiation. The DTI findings correlated with frontal lobe volumes. These differences were not observed between PD patients and controls. Conclusion: DTI identified a PSP-associated microstructural alteration pattern in the frontal lobes and in the CC area II including the corresponding bilateral callosal radiation tracts that could not be identified in both control samples, supporting the prominent PSP-associated frontal involvement as a potential neuroimaging marker.
Occupational Exposure to Blood and Body Fluids among Health-Care Workers in Serbia
Authors: Markovic-Denic Ljiljana , Maksimovic Natasa , Marusic Vuk , Vucicevic Jelena , Ostric Irena , Djuric Dusan
Published: November 2014

Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the epidemiology of occupational accidents and self-reported attitude of health-care workers (HCWs) in Serbia. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs in selected departments of five tertiary care hospitals and in one secondary care hospital in February 2012. A previously developed self-administered questionnaire was provided to HCWs who had direct daily contact with patients. χ2 test and Student's t test were used for statistical analysis of the data. Results: Of the 1,441 potential participants, 983 (68.2%) completed the questionnaire: 655 (66.7%) were nurses/medical technicians, 243 (24.7%) were physicians and 85 (8.6%) were other personnel. Of the 983 participants, 291 (29.6%) HCWs had had at least one accident during the previous year and 106 (40.2%) of them reported it to the responsible person. The highest prevalence (68.6%) of accidents was among nurses/technicians (p = 0.001). Accidents occurred more often in large clinical centers (81.1%; p < 0.001) and in the clinical ward, intensive care unit and operating theater (p = 0.003) than in other departments. Seventy-six (13.1%) nurses/medical technicians had an accident during needle recapping (p < 0.001). Of all the HCWs, 550 (55.9%) were fully vaccinated, including significantly more doctors (154, 63.4%) than participants from other job categories (p < 0.001). Conclusion: There was a relatively high rate of accidents among HCWs in our hospitals, most commonly amongst nurses and staff working in clinical wards, intensive care units and operating theaters. The most common types of accidents were needlestick injuries and accidents due to improper handling of contaminated sharp devices or occuring while cleaning instruments or by coming into contact with blood through damaged skin or through the conjunctiva/mucous membranes.
Incidence and Mortality Prognosis of Dysnatremias in Neurologic Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Zhang Yun-Zhou , Qie Jing-Yuan , Zhang Qing-Hong
Published: November 2014

Background: Dysnatremia, which is associated with increased mortality in general intensive care units (ICU), has not been thoroughly studied in neurologic ICU (NICU). Methods: Prevalence of dysnatremia was retrospectively assessed. The multivariable binary logistic regression model was used to determine the influence of dysnatremia on mortality. Results: Of 519 patients, 106 (20.4%) were admitted with hyponatremia and 177 (34.10%) with hypernatremia. Hypernatremia was detected in 69 (13.29%) patients on admission to NICU and in 108 patients (20.81%) during the ICU stay. However, the incidence of dysnatremia did not differ across the neurological categories (p = 0.4690). ICU stay in patients with acquired hypernatremia (22.3 w 25.35 days) was longer than those with admission hypernatremia (13.5 w 12.8 days) or with consistent normonatremia (16.16 w 20.06 days). The other indicators such as Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II, Glasgow Coma Scale score, urinary catheterization, and incidence of pneumonia were also associated with the serum sodium concentrations. Hypernatremia both on admission and acquired in NICU could significantly differentiate between survivors and nonsurvivors (p = 0.002 and <0.0001). However, only NICU-acquired hypernatremia was the independent risk factor for mortality with high sensitivity (p = 0.000). Conclusions: Dysnatremia is more common in NICU, whereas only acquired-hypernatremia was independently associated with outcome. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Human Plasma Lipidome Is Pleiotropically Associated With Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Death
Authors: Bellis Claire , Kulkarni Hemant , Mamtani Manju , Kent Jack W. , Wong Gerard , Weir Jacquelyn M. , Barlow Christopher K. , Diego Vincent , Almeida Marcio , Dyer Thomas D. , Göring Harald H.H. , Almasy Laura , Mahaney Michael C. , Comuzzie Anthony G. , Williams-Blangero Sarah , Meikle Peter J. , Blangero John , Curran Joanne E.
Published: November 2014

Background—

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of death in the United States and is associated with a high economic burden. Prevention of CVD focuses on controlling or improving the lipid profile of patients at risk. The human lipidome is made up of thousands of ubiquitous lipid species. By studying biologically simple canonical lipid species, we investigated whether the lipidome is genetically redundant and whether its genetic influences can provide clinically relevant clues of CVD risk.

Methods and Results—

We performed a genetic study of the human lipidome in 1212 individuals from 42 extended Mexican American families. High-throughput mass spectrometry enabled rapid capture of precise lipidomic profiles, providing 319 unique species. Using variance component–based heritability analyses and bivariate trait analyses, we detected significant genetic influences on each lipid assayed. Median heritability of the plasma lipid species was 0.37. Hierarchical clustering based on complex genetic correlation patterns identified 12 genetic clusters that characterized the plasma lipidome. These genetic clusters were differentially but consistently associated with risk factors of CVD, including central obesity, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, raised serum triglycerides, and metabolic syndrome. Also, these clusters consistently predicted occurrence of cardiovascular deaths during follow-up.

Conclusions—

The human plasma lipidome is heritable. Shared genetic influences reduce the dimensionality of the human lipidome into clusters that are associated with risk factors of CVD.