bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discontinuing routine histopathological analysis after adult tonsillectomy for benign indication
Authors: Chow Winsion , Rotenberg Brian W.
Published: February 2015

Objective

This study examines the rate of occult malignancy in routine histopathological analysis of tonsillectomy specimens from benign surgical cases in adults.

Study Design

Retrospective data review.

Methods

181 consecutive charts of tonsillectomies performed for benign indications between March 2007 and March 2014 were reviewed. Data on age, indications for surgery, preoperative and intraoperative clinical findings, and final pathology results were collected. A literature review of studies examining the rate of occult malignancy in tonsillectomy specimens was also performed, and the combined data was pooled. The financial impact of routine tonsil pathological analysis was determined.

Results

In 181 patients, there was one case of occult malignancy. After study inclusion and exclusion criteria were met, a review of the literature yielded 3,724 pooled tonsillectomy cases, with no case of unsuspected occult malignancy reported in the literature. The number needed to screen combining our series with the reported literature was 3,904. The financial impact of routine histopathological analysis at our institution was determined to be CAD $3308 per year.

Conclusion

Routine pathological analysis of tonsil specimens recovered from surgery performed for benign indications, in the absence of any suspicion preoperatively for malignancy, is not supported by current evidence and is not financially sound. Modern evidence does not support the need for even gross specimen analysis in these cases.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:1595–1599, 2015
Bone regeneration after sinonasal mucocele marsupialization: What really happens over time?
Authors: Terranova Paola , Karligkiotis Apostolos , Digilio Elena , Basilico Francesca , Bernardini Elena , Pistochini Andrea , Bignami Maurizio , Castelnuovo Paolo
Published: February 2015

Objective

To evaluate the necessity of reconstructing the eroded bony boundaries after mucocele marsupialization when the mucoperiosteum has been spared.

Study Design

Retrospective review of 308 patients treated for a sinonasal mucocele. Of these, 116 showed areas of bone reabsorption in their preoperative computed tomography (CT) scan.

Methods

Of 116 patients showing one or more areas of bone reabsorption who underwent marsupialization of the mucocele, whether using a purely endonasal endoscopic approach or a combined approach, the common factor was that the mucoperiosteum of the paranasal sinus had always been spared and the eroded bone had never been reconstructed. After rigorous selection, 12 adult patients were enrolled to undergo a postoperative CT scan in order to verify what had happened to the eroded bone at least 3 years following the surgical marsupialization of the mucocele.

Results

In 66,6% of patients, the postoperative CT scan showed complete self‐reconstruction of bone that had previously been eroded by the mucocele. No enophthalmus, meningocele, or other facial deformities were noted in our selection group, despite not having undergone surgical reconstruction of the bone.

Conclusions

Even taking into account the small number of patients enrolled in the present study, indications are that there is no need to reconstruct the eroded bone, as would appear from our results that sparing the mucoperiosteum is enough to enable the bone to regenerate. Nevertheless, larger scale studies of the subject are merited.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:1568–1572, 2015
Impact and cost of care of venous thromboembolism following pituitary surgery
Authors: Spinazzi Eleonora F. , Pines Morgan J. , Fang Christina H. , Raikundalia Milap D. , Baredes Soly , Liu James K. , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: February 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

In 2008, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services discontinued reimbursement for postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE) events such as deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, citing them as preventable postoperative complications. We examined the impact of postoperative VTE on patients undergoing pituitary surgery.

Methods

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) was evaluated for patients undergoing pituitary resection from 2002 to 2010. Patient demographics, comorbidities, length of stay, hospital charges, and postoperative complications were analyzed.

Results

Eighty‐seven patients who underwent pituitary surgery developed a VTE. Patients who underwent pituitary surgery that developed VTE were older (55.9 ± 15.2 years) than those who did not develop VTE (50.1 ± 17.2 years) (P = 0.002). VTE occurred at a significantly higher rate in patients with coagulopathy, peripheral vascular disorder, and weight loss (P < 0.05). VTE was associated with increased rates of postoperative neurological, pulmonary, cardiac, urinary, renal, hemorrhage, fluid and electrolytes, diabetes insipidus, and cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea complications (P < 0.01)—as well as increased mortality rate (P < 0.001), length of stay (P < 0.001), and cost of care (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Analysis of the data from the NIS database showed that risk factors for the development of VTE following pituitary surgery include older age, preexisting coagulopathy, peripheral vascular disorder, and weight loss. Patients who developed postoperative VTE had a longer length of hospital stay, higher hospital charges, and increased morbidity and mortality.

Level of Evidence

2C. Laryngoscope, 125:1563–1567, 2015
The clinical efficacy of surgical interventions for empty nose syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Leong Samuel C.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To evaluate the outcomes of surgical intervention for empty nose syndrome (ENS).

Data Source

Cochrane Collaboration database, U.S National Institutes of Health database (ClinicalTrials), U.S National Library of Medicine (PubMed).

Review Methods

Structured search using medical subject‐heading terms: nose, turbinate, surgery, atrophic rhinitis, and empty nose syndrome.

Results

A total of 128 patients were collated from eight studies with an age range of 18 to 64 years. Most patients had been suffering with ENS for many years, up to 29.7 years. The most common surgical technique involved a transnasal approach with implant material secured within a submucosal pocket. Common implant material used in the studies included biosynthetic, and autologous cartilage. The weighted mean preoperative Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT)−20 and SNOT‐25 scores were 48.3 and 65.9, respectively. At latest follow‐up, these scores improved significantly to 24.4 and 33.3, respectively. Although all SNOT subdomains improved following surgery, the highest improvement was observed in ENS symptoms and psychological issues. SNOT scores improved by 3 months postsurgery and this trend continued over time, although available data was limited to only 12 months follow‐up. Nevertheless, 10 patients had less than 10 points improvement, including three patients who had no change in SNOT scores. Extrusion of the implant occurred in six cases, and one developed chronic rhinosinusitis.

Conclusion

Surgical intervention for ENS appears to result in clinical improvement, although not all patients derived benefit. Long‐term follow‐up should be considered utilizing using both subjective (SNOT‐25) and objective (rhinomanometry) measures of clinical outcome. Laryngoscope, 125:1557–1562, 2015
Neurogenic cough
Authors: Altman Kenneth W. , Noordzij J. Pieter , Rosen Clark A. , Cohen Seth , Sulica Lucian
Published: February 2015

We review contemporary concepts of the pathophysiology of neurogenic cough, and its evaluation and treatment based on scientific publications addressing neurogenic cough. Neurogenic cough is thought to be the result of sensory neuropathy, most commonly idiopathic. Because it is principally a sensory phenomenon, clinical evaluation is challenging, the diagnosis most often being made by exclusion. Identification of motor paresis, either by laryngoscopy or laryngeal electromyography, may suggest the presence of sensory neuropathy. The utility of amitriptyline and gabapentin has been demonstrated in randomized clinical trials, and retrospective series and case reports have suggested efficacy of pregabalin, baclofen, and botulinum toxin. Sensory neuropathy appears to be an important cause of chronic refractory cough, and appears amenable to treatment with a variety of pharmacologic agents.

Laryngoscope, 125:1675–1681, 2015
Mass spectrometric detection of trace anions: The evolution of paired‐ion electrospray ionization (PIESI)
Authors: Breitbach Zachary S. , Berthod Alain , Huang Ke , Armstrong Daniel W.
Published: February 2015

The negative‐ion mode of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) is intrinsically less sensitive than the positive‐ion mode. The detection and quantitation of anions can be performed in positive‐ion mode by forming specific ion‐pairs during the electrospray process. The paired‐ion electrospray ionization (PIESI) method uses specially synthesized multifunctional cations to form positively charged adducts with the anions to be analyzed. The adducts are detected in the positive‐ion mode and at higher m/z ratios to produce excellent signal‐to‐noise ratios and limits of detection that often are orders of magnitude better than those obtained with native anions in the negative‐ion mode. This review briefly summarizes the different analytical approaches to detect and separate anions. It focuses on the recently introduced PIESI method to present the most effective dicationic, tricationic, and tetracationic reagents for the detection of singly and multiply charged anions and some zwitterions. The mechanism by which specific structural molecular architectures can have profound effects on signal intensities is also addressed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 35:201–218, 2016.
An anisotropic elastic‐decohesive constitutive relation for sea ice
Authors: Tran Han D. , Sulsky Deborah L. , Schreyer Howard L.
Published: February 2015

Thermodynamic growth or melt and mechanical redistribution due to lead opening or ridge formation shape the thickness distribution of the Arctic ice cover and impact the overall strength of pack ice. Specifically, the deformation and strength of ice are not isotropic but vary with the thickness and lead orientation. To reflect these facts, we develop an anisotropic, elastic‐decohesive constitutive model for sea ice together with a model to describe an oriented, ice thickness distribution. The tight connection between the mechanical response and the thickness distribution is an improvement over a previous model that only depended on the average ice thickness. The model describes mechanical responses anisotropically in both the elastic and failure regimes. In the elastic regime, the constitutive relation implicitly reflects strong and weak directions of the pack ice depending on the distribution of thin ice (including open water) and thicker ice (e.g., multi‐year ice or ridges). In the failure regime, the model predicts both failure initiation and the lead orientation. Evolution from initial failure to complete failure when traction‐free crack surfaces are formed is also modeled. Crack or lead width is determined during the evolution. Various examples of failure surfaces are presented to describe the behavior of modeled ice when the thickness distribution varies. The model predictions are also illustrated and compared with previous modeling efforts by examining regions of ice under idealized loading. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A NURBS‐based finite element model applied to geometrically nonlinear elastodynamics using a corotational approach
Authors: Espath L. F. R. , Braun A. L. , Awruch A. M. , Dalcin L. D.
Published: February 2015

A numerical model to deal with nonlinear elastodynamics involving large rotations within the framework of the finite element based on NURBS (Non‐Uniform Rational B‐Spline) basis is presented. A comprehensive kinematical description using a corotational approach and an orthogonal tensor given by the exact polar decomposition is adopted. The state equation is written in terms of corotational variables according to the hypoelastic theory, relating the Jaumann derivative of the Cauchy stress to the Eulerian strain rate.

The generalized‐α method (Gα) method and Generalized Energy‐Momentum Method with an additional parameter (GEMM+ξ) are employed in order to obtain a stable and controllable dissipative time‐stepping scheme with algorithmic conservative properties for nonlinear dynamic analyses.

The main contribution is to show that the energy–momentum conservation properties and numerical stability may be improved once a NURBS‐based FEM in the spatial discretization is used. Also it is shown that high continuity can postpone the numerical instability when GEMM+ξ with consistent mass is employed; likewise, increasing the continuity class yields a decrease in the numerical dissipation. A parametric study is carried out in order to show the stability and energy budget in terms of several properties such as continuity class, spectral radius and lumped as well as consistent mass matrices. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chocolate‐candy consumption and 3‐year weight gain among postmenopausal U.S. women
Authors: Greenberg James A. , Manson JoAnn E. , Buijsse Brian , Wang Lu , Allison Matthew A. , Neuhouser Marian L. , Tinker Lesley , Waring Molly E. , Isasi Carmen R. , Martin Lisa W. , Thomson Cynthia A.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To test the hypothesis that greater chocolate‐candy intake is associated with more weight gain in postmenopausal women.

Methods

A prospective cohort study involved 107,243 postmenopausal American women aged 50‐79 years (mean = 60.7) at enrollment in the Women's Health Initiative, with 3‐year follow‐up. Chocolate‐candy consumption was assessed by food frequency questionnaire, and body weight was measured. Linear mixed models, adjusted for demographic, socio economic, anthropomorphic, and behavioral variables, were used to test our main hypotheses.

Results

Compared with women who ate a 1 oz (∼28 g) serving of chocolate candy <1 per month, those who ate this amount 1 per month to <1 per week, 1 per week to < 3 per week and ≥3 per week showed greater 3‐year prospective weight gains (kg) of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.66, 0.85), 0.95 (0.84, 1.06), and 1.40 (1.27, 1.53), respectively, (P for linear trend<0.0001). Each additional 1 oz/day was associated with a greater 3‐year weight gain (kg) of 0.92 (0.80, 1.05). The weight gain in each chocolate‐candy intake level increased as BMI increased above the normal range (18.5‐25 kg/m2), and was inversely associated with age.

Conclusions

Greater chocolate‐candy intake was associated with greater prospective weight gain in this cohort of postmenopausal women.
Salsalate treatment improves glycemia without altering adipose tissue in nondiabetic obese hispanics
Authors: Alderete Tanya L. , Sattler Fred R , Richey Joyce M. , Allayee Hooman , Mittelman Steven D. , Sheng Xia , Tucci Jonathan , Gyllenhammer Lauren E. , Grant Edward G. , Goran Michael I.
Published: February 2015

Objective

Salsalate treatment has well‐known effects on improving glycemia, and the objective of this study was to examine whether the mechanism of this effect was related to changes in adipose tissue.

Methods

A randomized double‐blind and placebo‐controlled trial in obese Hispanics (18‐35 years) was conducted. The intervention consisted of 4 g day−1 of salsalate (n = 11) versus placebo (n = 13) for 4 weeks. Outcome measures included glycemia, adiposity, ectopic fat, and adipose tissue gene expression and inflammation.

Results

In those receiving salsalate, plasma fasting glucose decreased by 3.4% (P < 0.01), free fatty acids decreased by 42.5% (P = 0.06), and adiponectin increased by 27.7% (P < 0.01). Salsalate increased insulin AUC by 38% (P = 0.01) and HOMA‐B by 47.2% (P < 0.01) while estimates of insulin sensitivity/resistance were unaffected. These metabolic improvements occurred without changes in total, abdominal, visceral, or liver fat. Plasma markers of inflammation/immune activation were unchanged following salsalate. Salsalate had no effects on adipose tissue including adipocyte size, presence of crown‐like structures, or gene expression of adipokines, immune cell markers, or cytokines downstream of NF‐κB with the exception of downregulation of IL‐1β (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Findings suggest that metabolic improvements in response to salsalate occurred without alterations in adiposity, ectopic fat, or adipose tissue gene expression and inflammation.
Functional brain response to food images in successful adolescent weight losers compared with normal‐weight and overweight controls
Authors: Jensen Chad D. , Kirwan C. Brock
Published: February 2015

Objective

Research conducted with adults suggests that successful weight losers demonstrate greater activation in brain regions associated with executive control in response to viewing high‐energy foods. No previous studies have examined these associations in adolescents. Functional neuroimaging was used to assess brain response to food images among groups of overweight (OW), normal‐weight (NW), and successful weight‐losing (SWL) adolescents.

Methods

Eleven SWL, 12 NW, and 11 OW participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging while viewing images of high‐ and low‐energy foods.

Results

When viewing high‐energy food images, SWLs demonstrated greater activation in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) compared with OW and NW controls. Compared with NW and SWL groups, OW individuals demonstrated greater activation in the ventral striatum and anterior cingulate in response to food images.

Conclusions

Adolescent SWLs demonstrated greater neural activation in the DLPFC compared with OW/NW controls when viewing high‐energy food stimuli, which may indicate enhanced executive control. OW individuals' brain responses to food stimuli may indicate greater reward incentive processes than either SWL or NW groups.
Impact of BMI on gonadorelin‐stimulated LH peak in premenarcheal girls with idiopathic central precocious puberty
Authors: Fu Jun‐Fen , Liang Jian‐Feng , Zhou Xue‐Lian , Prasad Heranmaye C. , Jin Ju‐Hua , Dong Guan‐Ping , Rose Susan Rogers
Published: February 2015

Objective

To clarify the impact of body mass index (BMI) on luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion in response to gonadorelin (GnRH) stimulation testing in girls diagnosed with idiopathic central precocious puberty (ICPP).

Methods

Retrospective single‐center cohort study was carried out in 865 confirmed ICPP girls who underwent GnRH stimulation tests. Pubertal development according to Tanner, sex hormone parameters, and LH secretion in response to GnRH‐stimulation was compared.

Results

Around 609 girls were of normal weight (70.4%), while 168 children (19.4%) were overweight, and 88 (10.2%) were obese. Peak LH levels after GnRH were much higher in the normal‐weight group, with a median of 9.1 mIU ml−1 (interquartile 5.2‐13.1), compared with the median peak LH in the overweight and obese groups (8.5 mIU ml−1, interquartile 5.3‐11.6, and 6.2 mIU ml−1, interquartile 5.3‐11.0, respectively P < 0.001 for all comparisons). Peak LH/FSH ratio was also lower in the obese group (median 0.6, interquartile 0.68‐0.90) compared with the normal‐weight (median 0.8, interquartile 0.61‐1.11) and overweight (median 0.8, interquartile 0.64‐0.92) groups.

Conclusions

Higher BMI is associated with lower LH response to GnRH‐stimulation testing in girls with ICPP. It is recommended that BMI should be considered when interpreting GnRH‐stimulation tests.
Adults with long‐duration type 2 diabetes have blunted glycemic and β‐Cell function improvements after bariatric surgery
Authors: Khanna Vishesh , Malin Steven K. , Bena James , Abood Beth , Pothier Claire E. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Nissen Steven , Watanabe Richard , Brethauer Stacy A. , Schauer Philip R. , Kirwan John P. , Kashyap Sangeeta R.
Published: February 2015

Objective

This study investigated the effect of type 2 diabetes duration on glucose regulation 24 months post‐bariatric surgery.

Methods

Twenty‐seven adults with short‐ (<5 years) and long‐duration (≥10 years) type 2 diabetes received a mixed‐meal tolerance test at baseline and 24 months postsurgery. Body weight, insulin sensitivity, first‐ and second‐phase meal‐stimulated insulin secretion, disposition index (i.e., DI or pancreatic β‐cell function), and incretin responses were examined.

Results

Adults with short‐duration type 2 diabetes had better HbA1c, greater insulin secretory capacity, and greater DI compared with adults with long‐duration type 2 diabetes, despite similar weight loss and incretin responses. Diabetes duration correlated with smaller improvements in HbA1c and DI but not weight loss.

Conclusions

Enhanced β‐cell function characterizes the effect of bariatric surgery in adults with diabetes for <5 years, independent of weight loss or incretins. Additional therapy postsurgery may be required to improve glycemia for people with long‐standing type 2 diabetes.
The Democratic Contribution of Political Market Researchers
Authors: Lees‐Marshment Jennifer
Published: February 2015

Although we know that candidates, parties and governments conduct political market research and engage in heated debate about it, market research in politics remains a largely hidden activity. This article presents the perspectives of practitioners involved in collecting and using market research including advisors to 11 presidents and prime ministers and demonstrates that market analysis in politics is a multi‐varied activity, carried out within a complex context. The over‐simplistic criticism that political marketing means politicians simply follow focus groups needs to be revised, and although poor practice will always occur, practitioners are developing more fluid and mature ways to utilize research in politics. Political market research can play a valuable role in informing the decisions politicians make and enhance the relationship between the government and the public. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding the role of technology in reducing corruption: a transaction cost approach
Authors: Prasad Ambika , Shivarajan Sridevi
Published: February 2015

Prior research suggests that computerization of government services can help reduce corruption involved in government transactions, but there is no clear understanding of the process through which computer‐mediated transactions reduce corruption. We attempt to fill this gap by using a transaction cost economics framework, and argue that uncertainty and asset specificity associated with government transactions allow bureaucrats to act opportunistically and demand bribes. Therefore, those computerization initiatives that reduce uncertainty and asset specificity of government services lead to lowered perceptions of corruption. Our findings, based on a survey of 101 managers of domestic and multinational enterprises in India, support our hypotheses. We also compare the websites of Indian government organizations with European government websites on the dimensions of transparency and interactivity, and find that the Indian websites do not provide as much interactivity as the European websites. Our multi‐method study offers important theoretical and practical insights on effectively using technology to reduce corruption. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Managing fatigue after cancer treatment: development of RESTORE, a web‐based resource to support self‐management
Authors: Foster C. , Calman L. , Grimmett C. , Breckons M. , Cotterell P. , Yardley L. , Joseph J. , Hughes S. , Jones R. , Leonidou C. , Armes J. , Batehup L. , Corner J. , Fenlon D. , Lennan E. , Morris C. , Neylon A. , Ream E. , Turner L. , Richardson A.
Published: February 2015

Objective

The aim of this study is to co‐create an evidence‐based and theoretically informed web‐based intervention (RESTORE) designed to enhance self‐efficacy to live with cancer‐related fatigue (CRF) following primary cancer treatment.

Methods

A nine‐step process informed the development of the intervention: (1) review of empirical literature; (2) review of existing patient resources; (3) establish theoretical framework; (4) establish design team with expertise in web‐based interventions, CRF and people affected by cancer; (5) develop prototype intervention; (6) user testing phase 1; (7) refinement of prototype; (8) user testing phase 2; and (9) develop final intervention.

Results

Key stakeholders made a critical contribution at every step of intervention development, and user testing, which involved an iterative process and resulted in the final intervention. The RESTORE intervention has five sessions; sessions 1 and 2 include an introduction to CRF and goal setting. Sessions 3–5 can be tailored to user preference and are designed to cover areas of life where CRF may have an impact: home and work life, personal relationships and emotional adjustment.

Conclusions

It is feasible to systematically ‘co‐create’ an evidence‐based and theory‐driven web‐based self‐management intervention to support cancer survivors living with the consequences of cancer and its treatment. This is the first account of the development of a web‐based intervention to support self‐efficacy to manage CRF. An exploratory trial to test the feasibility and acceptability of RESTORE is now warranted. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reciprocal regulation of GAS5 lncRNA levels and mTOR inhibitor action in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Yacqub‐Usman Kiren , Pickard Mark R. , Williams Gwyn T.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

New therapies are required for castrate‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), and growth‐arrest specific 5 (GAS5) lncRNA, which riborepresses androgen receptor action, may offer novel opportunities in this regard. This lncRNA promotes the apoptosis of prostate cancer cells and its levels decline as prostate cancer cells acquire castrate‐resistance, so that enhancing GAS5 expression may improve the effectiveness of chemotherapies. Since GAS5 is a member of the 5' terminal oligopyrimidine gene family, we have examined mTOR inhibition as a strategy to increase GAS5 expression. Furthermore, we have determined if GAS5 itself mediates the action of mTOR inhibitors, as demonstrated for other chemotherapeutic agents in prostate cancer cells.

METHODS

The effects of mTOR inhibitors on GAS5 lncRNA levels and cell growth were determined in a range of prostate cancer cell lines. Transfection of cells with GAS5 siRNAs and plasmid constructs was performed to determine the involvement of GAS5 lncRNA in mTOR inhibitor action.

RESULTS

First generation mTORC1, combined mTORC1/mTORC2 and dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitors all increased cellular GAS5 levels and inhibited culture growth in androgen‐dependent (LNCaP) and androgen‐sensitive (22Rv1) cell lines, but not in androgen‐independent (PC‐3 and DU 145) cell lines. The latter exhibited low endogenous GAS5 expression, and GAS5 silencing in LNCaP and 22Rv1 cells decreased the sensitivity to mTOR inhibitors, whereas transfection of GAS5 lncRNA sensitized PC‐3 and DU 145 cells to these agents.

CONCLUSION

mTOR inhibition enhances GAS5 transcript levels in certain prostate cancer cell lines. This selectivity is likely to be related to endogenous GAS5 expression levels, since GAS5 lncRNA is itself required for mTOR inhibitor action in prostate cancer cells. Prostate 75:693–705, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Soft structure formation and cancer cell transport mechanisms of a folic acid–dipeptide conjugate
Authors: Kaur Gagandeep , Shukla Akansha , Sivakumar Sri , Verma Sandeep
Published: February 2015

Folic acid (FA) is a low‐molecular‐weight micronutrient, which plays a critical role in the prevention of birth defects and cancers. It is also essential for biochemical pathways responsible for DNA synthesis and maintenance and for the generation of new red blood cells. Cellular trafficking of FA and folate is based on its high‐affinity binding to cognate folate receptor, a protein commonly expressed in several human cancers. Thus, folate conjugates of drugs, plasmids, biosensors, contrast, and radiodiagnostic imaging agents have been used for assisted delivery in folate receptor‐positive cancer cells, via endocytosis pathways. This report describes morphologies of soft structures from a fully characterized FA–dipeptide conjugate and detailed mechanistic studies of its cancer cell uptake, as tracked by the inherent fluorescence of the conjugate. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors of the HIV Transmission in Men Who Have Sex with Men in Suizhou City from 2009 to 2013
Authors: Yang Fan , Shi Xiuye , He Weihua , Wu Songjie , Wang Jiaojiao , Zhao Kai , Yuan Hongfang , Martin Kuete , Zhang Huiping
Published: February 2015

Introduction

The primary transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been recently changing worldwide. In China, HIV transmission through heterosexual contact remains the predominant mode, but the prevalence of men who have sex with men (MSM) has been increasing.

Aim

This article investigated the overall epidemic trend and associated high-risk behavior among MSM in Suizhou City and explored the government's responses to the epidemic.

Methods

We conducted yearly cross-sectional behavioral surveillance surveys among MSM in Suizhou City from 2009 to 2013. Participation was anonymous and self-completed. Recruitment methods were consistently applied in each survey.

Main Outcome Measures

Semi-structured questionnaire surveys and yearly work summaries were conducted.

Results

Most of the MSM groups in Suizhou City were young adults (P < 0.05), well educated (P < 0.05), and married (P < 0.05). Two years after our interventions, we found an increasing trend of condom use during anal sex (P < 0.05), as well as commercial sex trade (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

HIV continues to spread rapidly among MSM in Suizhou City. The high-risk behavior among MSM remains a hindrance to HIV prevention. Innovative intervention approaches are essential for HIV surveillance and prevention among MSM in Suizhou City.
Applying superresolution localization‐based microscopy to neurons
Authors: Zhong Haining
Published: February 2015

Proper brain function requires the precise localization of proteins and signaling molecules on a nanometer scale. The examination of molecular organization at this scale has been difficult in part because it is beyond the reach of conventional, diffraction‐limited light microscopy. The recently developed method of superresolution, localization‐based fluorescent microscopy (LBM), such as photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM) and stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM), has demonstrated a resolving power at a 10 nm scale and is poised to become a vital tool in modern neuroscience research. Indeed, LBM has revealed previously unknown cellular architectures and organizational principles in neurons. Here, we discuss the principles of LBM, its current applications in neuroscience, and the challenges that must be met before its full potential is achieved. We also present the unpublished results of our own experiments to establish a sample preparation procedure for applying LBM to study brain tissue. Synapse 69:283–294, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Well‐posedness of a thermo‐elasto‐plastic problem with phase transitions in TRIP steels under mixed boundary conditions
Authors: Boettcher Sören , Böhm Michael , Wolff Michael
Published: February 2015

In this paper a model describing thermo‐elasto‐plasticity, phase transitions and transformation‐induced plasticity (TRIP) is studied. The main objective is the analysis of a regularization of the corresponding mathematical problem of TRIP and its interaction with classical plasticity under mixed boundary conditions.
Ionic solutes impact collagen scaffold bioactivity
Authors: Pawelec K. M. , Husmann A. , Wardale R. J. , Best S. M. , Cameron R. E.
Published: February 2015

The structure of ice-templated collagen scaffolds is sensitive to many factors. By adding 0.5 wt% of sodium chloride or sucrose to collagen slurries, scaffold structure could be tuned through changes in ice growth kinetics and interactions of the solute and collagen. With ionic solutes (sodium chloride) the entanglements of the collagen molecule decreased, leading to fibrous scaffolds with increased pore size and decreased attachment of chondrocytes. With non-ionic solutes (sucrose) ice growth was slowed, leading to significantly reduced pore size and up-regulated cell attachment. This highlights the large changes in structure and biological function stimulated by solutes in ice-templating systems.

Graphical Abstract
Local adaptation and ecological fitting in host use of theDrosophilaparasitoidLeptopilina japonica
Authors: Kimura Masahito T. , Novković Biljana
Published: February 2015

Local adaptation and ecological fitting are the major processes by which organisms colonize and persist in novel environments and form novel associations with unfamiliar species. In this study, we assessed the role of these two processes in the formation of associations between the parasitoidLeptopilina japonicaand various hostDrosophilaspecies using laboratory populations from three different localities. EachL. japonicapopulation was highly virulent to someDrosophilaspecies from its original locality, meaning they used theseDrosophilaspecies as major hosts. However, major host species at a given locality were usually less successfully parasitized by parasitoid populations from different localities. These results indicate that the investigated parasitoid populations showed local adaptation in host use. We also observed cases in which unfamiliarDrosophilaspecies were successfully parasitized or allopatricDrosophilapopulations were more successfully parasitized. These findings suggest thatL. japonicacan form novel associations with someDrosophilaspecies in novel environments without undergoing adaptive changes, a phenomenon called ecological fitting. In this study,L. japonicaalso usually appeared to have oviposited well inD. melanogasterspecies group members irrespective of their suitability as hosts. This result suggests that the parasitoid makes oviposition decisions based on characteristics common to the drosophilids in this species group.
Shifts in natural enemy assemblages resulting from landscape simplification account for biocontrol loss in wheat fields
Authors: Zhao Zi‐Hua , Sandhu Hardev S. , Gao Feng , He Da‐Han
Published: February 2015

In recent decades, landscape simplification due to agricultural intensification has resulted in biocontrol loss within agroecosystems leading to an increase in pest outbreaks. Empirical experiments have focused on the relationship between landscape pattern and the abundance of specific species. However, fewer studies have examined the varied responses of multiple natural enemy modules to landscape simplification. In the present study, 23 landscapes were examined to determine the effects of landscape simplification on cereal aphids and their natural enemies. Results showed that landscape simplification can increase cereal aphid populations with no significant effects on the total abundance of natural enemies. For each natural enemy module, it was found that the abundance of parasitic wasps was greatly increased by landscape simplification while the abundance of ground‐dwelling predators was significantly reduced. In contrast, the abundance of leaf‐dwelling predators was not significantly altered by landscape simplification. Therefore, the varied response of the three natural enemy modules to landscape simplification can result in major fluctuations in natural enemy–pest ratios and ultimately disrupt the top‐down control of natural predators and biocontrol services within agroecosystems. In conclusion, quantitative food‐web analysis could be a promising technique in clarifying the varied response of the three natural enemy modules to landscape pattern changes and species‐specific abundance, a field of biological pest control that requires further study.
Short-term pelvic fracture outcomes in adolescents differ from children and adults in the National Trauma Data Bank
Authors: Marmor Meir , Elson Joshua , Mikhail Christopher , Morshed Saam , Matityahu Amir
Published: February 2015

Background

Pediatric pelvic fractures are associated with high-energy trauma and injury to other systems, leading to an increased incidence of complication and mortality. Previous studies analyzed the pediatric population as a whole, including both children and adolescents. The purpose of this study was to examine whether adolescents with pelvic fracture have different complication and mortality rates compared to younger children and adults.

Methods

Using the National Trauma Data Bank, 37,784 patients below the age of 55 years with pelvic fractures were identified and divided into children (age <13 years), adolescents (age 13–17 years), and adults (age >17 years). Descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results

Children had an increased odds of death [odds ratio (OR) 2.29, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.96–2.67] and complications (OR 1.36, 95 % CI 1.20–1.55), whereas adolescents had a decrease in odds of death (OR 0.89, 95 % CI 0.74–1.06) and complications (OR 0.70, 95 % CI 0.61–0.81) compared to the adult population.

Conclusions

Adolescents with pelvic fractures exhibit a different physiologic response to the children and adult populations. This emphasizes the need to distinguish these subpopulations in future epidemiological research and treatment planning.
Stochastic scalar conservation laws driven by rough paths
Authors: Friz Peter K. , Gess Benjamin
Published: February 2015

We prove the existence and uniqueness of solutions to a class of stochastic scalar conservation laws with joint space–time transport noise and affine-linear noise driven by a geometric
p
-rough path. In particular, stability of the solutions with respect to the driving rough path is obtained, leading to a robust approach to stochastic scalar conservation laws. As immediate corollaries we obtain support theorems, large deviation results and the generation of a random dynamical system.
Petawatt class lasers worldwide
Authors: Danson Colin , Hillier David , Hopps Nicholas , Neely David
Published: February 2015

The use of ultra-high intensity laser beams to achieve extreme material states in the laboratory has become almost routine with the development of the petawatt laser. Petawatt class lasers have been constructed for specific research activities, including particle acceleration, inertial confinement fusion and radiation therapy, and for secondary source generation (x-rays, electrons, protons, neutrons and ions). They are also now routinely coupled, and synchronized, to other large scale facilities including megajoule scale lasers, ion and electron accelerators, x-ray sources and z-pinches. The authors of this paper have tried to compile a comprehensive overview of the current status of petawatt class lasers worldwide. The definition of ‘petawatt class’ in this context is a laser that delivers

${>}200~\text{TW}$

.
A new stem nematode, Ditylenchus oncogenus n. sp. (Nematoda: Tylenchida), parasitizing sowthistle from Adriatic coast dunes in southern Italy
Authors: Vovlas N. , Troccoli A. , Palomares-Rius J.E. , De Luca F. , Cantalapiedra-Navarrete C. , Liébanas G. , Landa B.B. , Subbotin S.A. , Castillo P.
Published: February 2015

Morphological and molecular analyses of a stem nematode causing a severe disease on infected sowthistle (Sonchus bulbosus) plants, involving the formation of gall-like structures on infected leaves and stems, have led to the description of a new species named Ditylenchus oncogenus n. sp. Morphologically, the new species is characterized by a medium to large body size (all adults more than 1 mm in length); a delicate stylet (9.0–11.0 μm long) with minute, rounded knobs; a long post-vulval uterine sac (c. 65% of the vulva–anus distance); six incisures at the lateral fields and characteristic D. destructor-pattern of spicules (with pronounced ventral tumulus and anteriorly pointed, less sclerotized, cuticle parts present within the lamina). The results of molecular analysis of rRNA gene sequences, including the D2–D3 expansion regions of 28S rRNA, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rRNA, partial 18S rRNA gene, the protein-coding mitochondrial gene, cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (COI), and the heat-shock protein 90 (hsp90) gene, support the new species status. The results of a host-suitability test indicated that the new species does not parasitize potato (Solanum tuberosum) tubers and broad bean (Vicia faba) seedlings. Histopathological observations on naturally infected sowthistle tissues revealed that D. oncogenus n. sp. causes floral stem neoplasia and midrib leaf gall formation on the type, and to date only known, host. The galls were characterized by extensive hyperplasia, where several necrotic cells in the neoplasic area were directly damaged by feeding of the nematode, whereas a number of adjacent cells showed typical cytological changes, such as granulated cytoplasm with hypertrophied nuclei and nucleoli.
Are we ‘on the right trach?’ The National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death examines tracheostomy care
Authors: Wilkinson K A , Freeth H , Martin I C
Published: February 2015

Objectives:

The National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death presents a detailed survey of practice, encompassing the care pathway for patients with a new tracheostomy formed in hospital, alongside a review of organisational aspects of care.

Results:

Tracheostomy formation has come to be regarded as a relatively low-risk procedure that can be carried out safely at the bedside, even in high-risk patients. Information on how many procedures are carried out percutaneously has been poor and not captured by existing UK data collection systems.

Conclusion:

The study reinforces recommendations made by other healthcare groups, and presents new information which can be used as a basis for discussion and future planning to improve patient outcomes. The importance of meticulous ongoing care of a tracheostomy is recognised as important to prevent patient complications. Bedside staff must have the knowledge, competencies and confidence to deal with common and potentially life-threatening emergencies when they occur.
Mothers' labeling responses to infants' gestures predict vocabulary outcomes
Authors: OLSON JANET , MASUR ELISE FRANK
Published: February 2015

Twenty-nine infants aged 1;1 and their mothers were videotaped while interacting with toys for 18 minutes. Six experimental stimuli were presented to elicit infant communicative bids in two communicative intent contexts – proto-declarative and proto-imperative. Mothers' verbal responses to infants' gestural and non-gestural communicative bids were coded for object and action labels. Relations between maternal labeling responses and infants' vocabularies at 1;1 and 1;5 were examined. Mothers' labeling responses to infants' gestural communicative bids were concurrently and predictively related to infants' vocabularies, whereas responses to non-gestural communicative bids were not. Mothers' object labeling following gestures in the proto-declarative context mediated the association from infants' gesturing in the proto-declarative context to concurrent noun lexicons and was the strongest predictor of subsequent noun lexicons. Mothers' action labeling after infants' gestural bids in the proto-imperative context predicted infants' acquisition of action words at 1;5. Findings show that mothers' responsive labeling explain specific relations between infants' gestures and their vocabulary development.
Utilitarianism for a Broken World
Authors: MULGAN TIM
Published: February 2015

Drawing on the author's recent bookEthics for a Broken World, this article explores the philosophical implications of the fact that climate change – or something like it – might lead to abroken worldwhere resources are insufficient to meet everyone's basic needs, and where our affluent way of life is no longer an option. It argues that the broken world has an impact, not only on applied ethics, but also on moral theory. It then explores that impact. The article first argues that the broken world creates severe difficulties for both libertarians and contractualists. It then explores the impact of the broken world on utilitarianism – and especially on reflective equilibrium arguments for rule-utilitarianism. The article concludes that, while such arguments may still be viable, the form of rule-utilitarianism that results will be less moderate and less liberal than contemporary rule-utilitarians might hope.
THE FIRST MODERN REALIST: FELIX GILBERT'S MACHIAVELLI AND THE REALIST TRADITION IN INTERNATIONAL THOUGHT
Authors: GUILHOT NICOLAS
Published: February 2015

In the disciplines of political science and international relations, Machiavelli is unanimously considered to be “the first modern realist.” This essay argues that the idea of a realist tradition going from the Renaissance to postwar realism founders when one considers the disrepute of Machiavelli among early international relations theorists. It suggests that the transformation of Machiavelli into a realist thinker took place subsequently, when new historical scholarship, informed by strategic and political considerations related to the transformation of the US into a global power, generated a new picture of the Renaissance. Focusing on the work of Felix Gilbert, and in particular hisMachiavelli and Guicciardini, the essay shows how this new interpretation of Machiavelli was shaped by the crisis of the 1930s, the emergence of security studies, and the philanthropic sponsorship of international relations theory.
New pepper accessions proved to be suitable as a genetic resource for use in breeding nematode-resistant rootstocks
Authors: Sánchez-Solana Fulgencio , Ros Caridad , Guerrero María del Mar , Lacasa Carmen María , Sánchez-López Elena , Lacasa Alfredo
Published: February 2015

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs), Meloidogyne spp., are considered, worldwide, as one of the main pathogens of solanaceous crops, including pepper (Capsicum spp.). Restrictions on the use of standard nematicides have motivated the development and use of resistant cultivars and rootstocks. Three genes in pepper, called Me1, Me3 and N, confer resistance to the three main RKN species (Meloidogyne incognita, Meloidogyne javanica and Meloidogyne arenaria). However, their effectiveness seems to be limited because nematode populations that have overcome the resistance have been found, leading to a search for new sources of resistance and strategies to preserve their effectiveness. In two greenhouses and over a 7-month growing period, we evaluated the resistance to M. incognita and the agronomic behaviour as rootstocks of nine pepper (Capsicum annuum) accessions – HDA330 (Me1 carrier), Serrano Criollo de Morelos, (Me3 carrier), Yolo Wonder (partially resistant) and another six accessions of unknown resistance originating from cultivars well adapted to the local growing conditions. The resistance conferred by the Me1 gene was more robust than that conferred by Me3. Resistance to M. incognita was found in four new accessions: P13, CTL, CT5, and P14. In P13, the level of resistance was similar to that of HDA330. The resistant accessions showed better agronomic behaviour than the susceptible accessions, which was most noticeable towards the final of the growing period. Some accessions constitute a potential resource for use in the genetic breeding of RKN-resistant rootstocks.