bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When Homo Academicus meets Homo Journalisticus: An inter-field study of collaboration and conflict in the communication of scientific research
Authors: Møller Hartley Jannie
Published: October 2015

The longstanding tension between journalists and academics is explored by analysing data from qualitative interviews with 25 journalists and scientists using an analytical framework derived from Bourdieu’s field theory. The article empirically shows how journalism and science are both constructed around the opposition between knowledge (content) and communication (form). Based on the analysis of narratives in the communication processes between the two fields, the article shows that scientists and journalists take different positions according to the existing ideals within their respective fields, revealing different science-communication habitus. The article presents a typology of proximity and distance, in which communication between the fields becomes easier or more difficult as both fields try to protect their historic professional identities.
The role of travel experience in the structural relationships among tourists’ perceived image, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions
Authors: Liu Xiaoming , Li Jun (Justin) , Kim Woo Gon
Published: October 2015

The theoretical relationships among tourists’ perceived destination image, satisfaction, and future behavioral intentions are very important for the tourism industry and have been studied by many scholars. This paper examines how these relationships differ for tourists with different travel experiences by studying 514 Mainland Chinese outbound travelers to Macau. The conceptual model incorporates the exogenous formative concept of perceived image and the endogenous reflective concept of visitor satisfaction as well as the visitors’ behavioral intentions. This study not only verifies the conceptual schema in three assumed relationships but also confirms that the importance of perceived image for satisfaction is higher for first-time visitors than it is for returning visitors. The confirmative measure model reveals that the dimension of ‘leisure activities’ contributes the most to the overall destination image. Finally, suggestions for tourism development organizations are provided based on the findings of this study.
A novel particle swarm and genetic algorithm hybrid method for diesel engine performance optimization
Authors: Bertram Aaron M , Zhang Qiang , Kong Song-Charng
Published: October 2015

Heuristic methods have been a successful tool for optimizing engine parameters in both simulation and experimental testing. An improved hybrid method applying both the particle swarm optimization method and genetic algorithm was developed, tested, and compared with a basic particle swarm method for improving engine emissions and performance. A computational comparison between the particle swarm optimization–genetic algorithm hybrid, basic particle swarm optimization, and basic genetic algorithm was done using standard test problems. Computational results indicated improvements in both the efficiency and effectiveness of the present hybrid method. Engine testing was performed under steady-state conditions at 1400 r/min at 4.15 bar brake mean effective pressure. The basic particle swarm optimization and the hybrid particle swarm optimization–genetic algorithm method were applied to the test apparatus and used to locate the optimum neighborhood of the engine operation. A single-objective function representing NOx, particulate matter, hydrocarbon, CO, and fuel consumption was used in this application. The hybrid method was able to locate a narrow window of operation which showed 27% lower NOx emissions and 60% lower particulate matter emissions than the standard particle swarm optimization method. The hybrid method was able to locate the improvements using similar dynamometer time, indicating that the hybrid method is more efficient and more effective. Trends relating combustion characteristics and input parameters were observed and are discussed with regard to future improvements to heuristic methods for optimizing diesel engine performance.
Recruiting the “culturally compatible” migrant: Irish Working Holiday migration and white settler Canadianness
Authors: Helleiner Jane
Published: October 2015

Working Holiday programs have been identified as an increasingly significant source of temporary migrant labor for several wealthy states. This case study adds to limited work on this phenomenon in the Canadian context by offering a partial chronology of Irish Working Holiday migration to Canada and a critical analysis of Canadian government discourse that positioned Irish migrants as not only “culturally compatible” but also part of white settler Canadianness thus making them desirable workers and potential future immigrants. The Canadian case study raises questions about how Working Holiday and related youth mobility programs may be linked to classed and racialized migration and dominant ideologies of nationalized belonging
Changing the Hidden Curriculum of Campus Rape Prevention and Education: Women’s Self-Defense as a Key Protective Factor for a Public Health Model of Prevention
Authors: McCaughey Martha , Cermele Jill
Published: October 2015

Recent activist, policy, and government efforts to engage in campus rape prevention education (RPE), culminating in the 2014 White House Task Force recommendations to combat campus sexual assault, prompt a need to examine the concept of “prevention” in the context of sexual assault on U.S. college campuses and their surrounding community service agencies. This article reviews previous research on effective resistance to sexual assault, showing that self-defense is a well-established protective factor in a public health model of sexual assault prevention. The article goes on to show, through an examination of campus rape prevention efforts framed as “primary prevention,” that self-defense is routinely excluded. This creates a hidden curriculum that preserves a gender status quo even while it strives for change. The article concludes with recommendations for how administrators, educators, facilitators, funding agencies, and others can incorporate self-defense into campus RPE for a more effective, data-driven set of sexual assault prevention efforts.
Uncanny TV
Authors: Moylan Katie
Published: October 2015

This article explores how two recent television drama miniseries, Top of the Lake and Les Revenants produce moments of the uncanny. I argue that both series produce the uncanny in formal ways made possible by conditions of a televisuality characterized by narrative complexity and a pronounced aesthetic. In their first season, both series draw on recognizable conventions of the police procedural genre, but each develops a dialectical narrative structure that rotates between a rational procedural plotline and an irrational, less linear narrative of a secretive community. In my exploration, I conceive of the televisual moment as a form of rupture and draw on Freud’s original sense of “the uncanny” as making strange what was fundamentally familiar. I argue that ultimately each series mobilizes “the uncanny” in distinctive ways, resulting in two endings with very different implications.
Frimand Needle Holder Reduces Suturing Time and Surgical Stress When Suturing in Palm Grip
Authors: Frimand Rönnow Carl-Fredrik , Jeppsson Bengt , Thorlacius Henrik
Published: October 2015

Purpose. The Frimand needle holder (FNH) was developed to facilitate palm grip suturing. In the present study, we wanted to examine the impact of the FNH compared with a conventional Hegar-styled needle holder (HSNH) on suture time and surgical stress. Methods. Thirty-two surgeons were enrolled and they performed sets of 3 continuous sutures on a polyurethane pad with premarked insert and exit points and the time for suturing was measured. Surgical stress was quantified by having the surgeons to perform 10 release maneuvers with the FNH and the HSNH on a needle attached to a scale. The scale sent 5 values per second to a computer. The first measurement of each series was regarded as the starting weight and all subsequent measurements were either regarded as neutral, pressure or traction. The sum of these measurements represented total surgical stress. Results. We found that all surgeons reduced their median suturing time by 16% when using FNH for palm grip suturing with no difference between junior and senior surgeons. Moreover, it was observed that FNH decreased median surgical stress by 62% for all surgeons performing palm grip suturing compared with a conventional HSNH. Conclusion. We conclude that the FNH reduces suture time and surgical stress compared with HSNH when performing palm grip suturing. These findings warrant studies in surgical patients in order to evaluate the potential clinical impact of FNH.
Indocyanine Green Fluorescence for Free-Flap Perfusion Imaging Revisited
Authors: Bigdeli Amir Khosrow , Gazyakan Emre , Schmidt Volker Juergen , Hernekamp Frederick Jochen , Harhaus Leila , Henzler Thomas , Kremer Thomas , Kneser Ulrich , Hirche Christoph
Published: October 2015

Background. Near-infrared indocyanine green video angiography (ICG-NIR-VA) has been introduced for free-flap surgery and may provide intraoperative flap designing as well as postoperative monitoring. Nevertheless, the technique has not been established in clinical routine because of controversy over benefits. Improved technical features of the novel Visionsense ICG-NIR-VA surgery system are promising to revisit the field of application. It features a unique real-time fusion image of simultaneous NIR and white light visualization, with highlighted perfusion, including a color-coded perfusion flow scale for optimized anatomical understanding. Methods. In a feasibility study, the Visionsense ICG-NIR-VA system was applied during 10 free-flap surgeries in 8 patients at our center. Indications included anterior lateral thigh (ALT) flap (n = 4), latissimus dorsi muscle flap (n = 1), tensor fascia latae flap (n = 1), and two bilateral deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps (n = 4). The system was used intraoperatively and postoperatively to investigate its impact on surgical decision making and to observe perfusion patterns correlated to clinical monitoring. Results. Visionsense ICG-NIR-VA aided assessing free-flap design and perfusion patterns in all cases and correlated with clinical observations. Additional interventions were performed in 2 cases (22%). One venous anastomosis was revised, and 1 flap was redesigned. Indicated by ICG-NIR-VA, 1 ALT flap developed partial flap necrosis (11%). Conclusions. The Visionsense ICG-NIR-VA system allowed a virtual view of flap perfusion anatomy by fusion imaging in real-time. The system improved decision making for flap design and surgical decisions. Clinical and ICG-NIR-VA parameters correlated. Its future implementation may aid in improving outcomes for free-flap surgery, but additional experience is needed to define its final role.
Predictors of Shoot–Don’t Shoot Decision-Making Performance
Authors: Scribner David R.
Published: October 2015

Soldiers are required to perform basic combat tasks, such as move, shoot, and communicate, and to make decisions under many environmental stressors, including continuous operations and information-processing tasks driven by C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and other types of information systems. Knowledge requires information processing, and increased processing is usually the root cause of increased error. Friend-or-foe decision-making research has primarily focused on the types of equipment being used and task difficulty levels to examine shoot–don’t shoot errors; however, newer theoretical approaches may enhance cognitive performance research and models focused on decision-making performance. Higher explanatory power and better prediction models may be created using multitheoretical individual factors derived from transactional-stress and information-processing theories. The purpose of this study was to examine multitheoretical individual factor effects of emotional and cognitive predictor variables under dual-task simulated shoot–don’t shoot target scenarios. A quantitative repeated-measures approach was used with a convenience sample of 12 U.S. Army soldiers ages 18 to 34 years.
Improved Cardiovascular Parameter With a Nutrient-Dense, Plant-Rich Diet-Style: A Patient Survey With Illustrative Cases
Authors: Fuhrman Joel , Singer Michael
Published: October 2015

Background. The results presented from a practice survey include cases of interest, demonstrating improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors utilizing a Nutrient-Dense, Plant-Rich (NDPR) diet. It includes changes in weight, blood pressure, and lipids parameters derived from the survey and retrospective chart review. Methods. Practice records and interviews were used for case history descriptions. Participants’ data were collected via an online survey. Results. Adherence to a NDPR dietary protocol resulted in reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and serum triglycerides. Compliance of greater than 80% with the target diet resulted in an average sustained weight loss of over 50 pounds in 75 obese subjects. There was a corresponding average reduction of 27.8 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure for the 127 survey responders with untreated hypertension at baseline, and a 42.2 mg/dL average decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol for the 328 survey responders, not on cholesterol reducing medications. Conclusion. The outcomes from both the survey responders and cases demonstrate the potential for the NDPR dietary intervention to improve weight, blood pressure, lipids, and even reverse severe cardiovascular disease. Though this is a report of cases and self-reported benefits, it adds evidence to support the need for further studies investigating the potential of this dietary intervention.
Customer requirement modeling and mapping of numerical control machine
Authors: Sheng Zhongqi , Wang Yazi , Song Junyou , Xie Hualong
Published: October 2015

In order to better obtain information about customer requirement and develop products meeting customer requirement, it is necessary to systematically analyze and handle the customer requirement. This article uses the product service system of numerical control machine as research objective and studies the customer requirement modeling and mapping oriented toward configuration design. It introduces the conception of requirement unit, expounds the customer requirement decomposition rules, and establishes customer requirement model; it builds the house of quality using quality function deployment and confirms the weight of technical feature of product and service; it explores the relevance rules between data using rough set theory, establishes rule database, and solves the target value of technical feature of product. Using economical turning center series numerical control machine as an example, it verifies the rationality of proposed customer requirement model.
Women’s human rights may be unicorns, but they can fight wicked witches
Authors: Botting Eileen Hunt
Published: October 2015

This essay responds to Alasdair MacIntyre’s skeptical claim that human rights are like “witches” and “unicorns”—as in, they don’t exist, and thus cannot be subject to abstract rational justification. Putting aside the issue of the abstract rational justification of human rights, I focus on the more urgent practical question of how human rights might be meaningfully alleged when they do not yet exist within society, culture, law, or policy. Borrowing from MacIntyre’s narrative theory of ethics to undermine his skeptical view of human rights, I contend that human rights—whether understood as moral rights or as political rights—can be coherently alleged through the same kind of narrative framework that MacIntyre argued was essential to any intelligible ethical system of thought. In particular, imaginative narrative frameworks—such as those found in stories and films—have been crucial for the enterprise of demanding human rights for the powerless, especially girls and women. Putting at its center a feminist interpretation of the classic American film, The Wizard of Oz (1939), this article playfully, yet ultimately seriously, challenges MacIntyre’s dismissal of rights as “witches and unicorns” by showing how allegations of women’s human rights derive much of their power for fighting human wrongs from their historically (although not essentially) imaginative character as well as their deeper narrative structure.
Predicting degree of myelination based on diffusion tensor imagining of canines with mucopolysaccharidosis type I
Authors: Choi Joshua , Dickson Patricia , Calabrese Evan , Chen Steven , White Leonard , Ellingwood Matthew , Provenzale James M
Published: October 2015

Objective

This study examined the effect of mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) type 1 on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics in the canine brain. We hypothesized 1) white matter regions in the MPS brain would show decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) and increased radial diffusivity (RD) compared to the same regions in normal brain, 2) compared to FA, RD would more closely correlate with myelin density and fiber coherence, and 3) DTI and histological data from the normal brain could be used to accurately predict degree of myelination in the MPS brain using DTI metrics.

Methods

We performed DTI imaging on one normal canine brain and two MPS brains on a 7T MR scanner and generated FA and RD maps. Brains were sectioned and stained with a gold chloride stain for myelin to obtain myelin optical density and fiber coherence values. The three brains were compared using the DTI and histology metrics.

Results

Most measured regions in one MPS brain and all measured regions in the other MPS brain exhibited decreased FA, increased RD, and decreased myelin density in white matter. FA and RD significantly correlated with myelin density in the normal brain but failed to reach significance in either MPS brain. A predictive model using FA but not RD was able to accurately predict degree of myelination in one MPS brain.

Conclusion

Dysmyelination in the MPS brain results in decreased FA and increased RD. However, in the small sample, FA and RD were values not significantly correlated with myelination in either MPS brain.
Accuracy of percentage of signal intensity recovery and relative cerebral blood volume derived from dynamic susceptibility-weighted, contrast-enhanced MRI in the preoperative diagnosis of cerebral tumours
Authors: Chakravorty Ananya , Steel Timothy , Chaganti Joga
Published: October 2015

Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the technique of choice for diagnosis of cerebral tumours, and has become an increasingly powerful tool for their evaluation; however, the diagnosis of common contrast-enhancing lesions can be challenging, as it is sometimes impossible to differentiate them using conventional imaging. Histopathological analysis of biopsy specimens is the gold standard for diagnosis; however, there are significant risks associated with the invasive procedure and definitive diagnosis is not always achieved. Early accurate diagnosis is important, as management differs accordingly. Advanced MRI techniques have increasing utility for aiding diagnosis in a variety of clinical scenarios. Dynamic susceptibility-weighted contrast-enhanced (DSC) MRI is a perfusion imaging technique and a potentially important tool for the characterisation of cerebral tumours. The percentage of signal intensity recovery (PSR) and relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) derived from DSC MRI provide information about tumour capillary permeability and neoangiogenesis, which can be used to characterise tumour type and grade, and distinguish tumour recurrence from treatment-related effects. Therefore, PSR and rCBV potentially represent a non-invasive means of diagnosis; however, the clinical utility of these parameters has yet to be established. We present a review of the literature to date.
Is simultaneous pancreas kidney transplant the most cost-effective strategy for type 1 diabetes patients with renal failure?
Authors: Ong Siew Chin , Lee Victor Tswen-Wen , Lim Jeremy Fung Yen , Chow Wai Leng , Tong Shao Chuen , Kee Terence Yi-Shern , Madhavan Krishnakumar
Published: October 2015

Introduction:

Simultaneous pancreas kidney transplant (SPK) has shown beneficial outcomes in type 1 diabetes patients with renal failure (IDDM-RF). The objective of this study was to assess its cost-effectiveness compared with other treatment strategies for IDDM-RF.

Methods:

A decision analytic model was developed for IDDM-RF treatment with four possible strategies: deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT), living donor kidney transplant (LDKT), SPK and dialysis. A cost-utility analysis from the healthcare provider perspective was conducted based on a five-year model. Local data were used whenever possible except for SPK survival variables, wherein data from United Network for Organ Sharing and Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients were used. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of uncertainties around key variables.

Results:

In the baseline analysis, LDKT was the most cost-effective strategy with the lowest cost per quality-adjusted life year gained, i.e. SGD77,068, followed by SPK (SGD82,991), DDKT (SGD92,432) and dialysis (SGD181,192). The DDKT was extended dominated by dialysis and LDKT strategies. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios with dialysis as a reference for LDKT and SPK strategies were SGD43,094 and SGD56,201, respectively. Both strategies are considered highly cost-effective under World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. In the sensitivity analysis, a 6% increase in both SPK kidney graft survival and patient survival would make SPK the most cost-effective strategy.

Conclusions:

Both LDKT and SPK are highly cost-effective strategies in the treatment of IDDM-RF. SPK is potentially the most cost-effective strategy if a 6% increase in both SPK kidney graft survival and patient survival is achieved.
Older nurses: A literature review on challenges, factors in early retirement and workforce retention
Authors: Uthaman Thendral , Chua Tse Lert , Ang Shin Yuh
Published: October 2015

Introduction:

The widespread shortage of nurses has been exacerbated by an ageing workforce. Though skilled and productive, older nurses are more vulnerable to the physical and mental demands of nursing. Hence, this review was performed to determine the existing evidence on challenges faced by older nurses, factors which promote or deter retirement and strategies that could help in their retention. The results of this review would help with the implementation of age-friendly initiatives to enable older nurses to work longer, while simultaneously allowing institutions to maintain high-quality nursing care.

Methods:

A search was done using three databases, namely MEDLINE, the Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and PsycINFO. Primary studies and reviews published between 2004 and 2015 were retrieved. Keywords used were ‘older nurses’, ‘retirement’, ‘re-employment’ and ‘retention’.

Results:

Articles retrieved were mainly qualitative studies. A few quantitative surveys and reviews were reported. The definition of older nurses was inconsistent across the literature. Personal health concerns and limitations, computerisation and shift work were common challenges faced by older nurses, while monetary factors, health and workload were consistent themes on early retirement. Financial reasons were also identified as factors associated with retention, along with flexible schedules. Almost all strategies suggested in the literature for retaining older nurses lacked empirical testing.

Conclusion:

The ageing process may render certain tasks less desirable and more challenging for the older nurses. Employers could pay attention to the needs of an older workforce through improved workplace practices and being familiar with factors associated with early retirement and retention.
Setting up a regional health system database for seamless population health management in Singapore
Authors: Gunapal Pradeep Paul George , Kannapiran Palvannan , Teow Kiok Liang , Zhu Zhecheng , Xiaobin You Alex , Saxena Nakul , Singh Vinay , Tham Linus , Choo Philip Wee Jin , Chong Phui-Nah , Sim Joe Heng Joo , Eu Li Wong John , Ong Benjamin Kian Chung , Soh Eugene Fidelis , Foo Hee Jug , Heng Bee Hoon
Published: October 2015

Objective:

Understanding the health and health service utilization of the population is critical for Regional Health System’s (RHS) population health management (PHM) initiatives in Singapore. The RHS database is a collaborative effort toward developing a national architecture for healthcare utilization data across diverse clinical systems with disparate data models. This manuscript describes the setup of an RHS database which would facilitate big data analytics for proactive population health management and health services research.

Materials and methods:

The RHS database is a conglomeration of four isolated databases from the three RHSs. It contains linked National Healthcare Group (NHG) polyclinic visit records, specialist outpatient clinic visit records, hospital discharge records from Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), National University Hospital (NUH) and Alexandra Hospital (AH), chronic disease management system (CDMS) records and mortality records from local registries. The data linkage process was conducted using the unique identification number (NRIC) as the linking variable. The final anonymized database has multiple interconnected tables that includes patient demographics, chronic disease and healthcare utilization information.

Results:

Over 2.8 million patients had contact with the three RHSs from 2008 to 2013. The database facilitated risk stratification of patients based on their past healthcare utilization and chronic disease information. This database aids in understanding the cross-utilization of healthcare services across the three RHSs and can help address the challenges of setting up a distinct geographical boundary for individual RHSs.

Conclusions:

The RHS database has been established with the intention to support the secondary use of administrative health data in health services research and proactive PHM in Singapore.
Deletion of the nuclear localization sequence and C-terminus of parathyroid hormone–related protein decreases osteogenesis and chondrogenesis but increases adipogenesis and myogenesis in murine bone marrow stromal cells
Authors: Hildreth Blake E , Hernon Krista M , Dirksen Wessel P , Leong John , Supsavhad Wachiraphan , Boyaka Prosper N , Rosol Thomas J , Toribio Ramiro E
Published: October 2015

The N-terminus of parathyroid hormone–related protein regulates bone marrow stromal cell differentiation. We hypothesized that the nuclear localization sequence and C-terminus are involved. MicroRNA and gene expression analyses were performed on bone marrow stromal cells from mice lacking the nuclear localization sequence and C-terminus ( PthrpΔ/Δ) and age-matched controls. Differentiation assays with microRNA, cytochemical/histologic/morphologic, protein, and gene expression analyses were performed. PthrpΔ/Δ bone marrow stromal cells are anti-osteochondrogenic, pro-adipogenic, and pro-myogenic, expressing more Klf4, Gsk-3β, Lif, Ct-1, and microRNA-434 but less β-catenin, Igf-1, Taz, Osm, and microRNA-22 ( p ⩽ 0.024). PthrpΔ/Δ osteoblasts had less mineralization, osteocalcin, Runx2, Osx, Igf-1, and leptin ( p ⩽ 0.029). PthrpΔ/Δ produced more adipocytes, Pparγ, and aP2, but less Lpl ( p ⩽ 0.042). PthrpΔ/Δ cartilage pellets were smaller with less Sox9 and Pth1r, but greater Col2a1 ( p ⩽ 0.024). PthrpΔ/Δ produced more myocytes, Des, and Myog ( p ⩽ 0.021). MicroRNA changes supported these findings. In conclusion, the nuclear localization sequence and C-terminus are pro-osteochondrogenic, anti-adipogenic, and anti-myogenic.
Henoch–Schonlein purpura antecedent to Crohn’s disease
Authors: Pomeranz Galit , Zehavi Tania , Uziel Yosef , Pomeranz Avishalom , Korzets Ze’ev
Published: October 2015

We report a 13-year-old youth who initially presented with the typical rash of Henoch–Schonlein purpura followed a month later by a nephrotic syndrome and hematuria. Renal biopsy revealed crescentic IgA nephropathy. The patient was aggressively treated with steroids leading to a remission of his nephrotic syndrome. Three years after his initial presentation, he developed bloody diarrhea and Crohn’s disease was diagnosed.
Origins of Anthropocene awareness
Authors: Lowenthal David
Published: October 2015

Validating the Anthropocene as a new epoch and dating its start preoccupies many contributors to this journal. Awareness of anthropogenic change, rather than change itself, is my concern here. When, how and to whom did major human impacts became apparent? Some supposed Earth-reshaping effects have been actual, others illusory or exaggerated, still others conjectural or prospective. Attributions of causative human agency stem not only from empirical observation and historical accounts, but also from deeply embedded notions of religious purpose and moral propriety. I sketch the history of impact awareness and the utility of Anthropocene precedents. I then discuss the pioneering insights of George Perkins Marsh (1801–1882), the first to combine observations of ongoing terrestrial transformations with historically based analyses of cumulative impacts. In conclusion, I stress the relevance of Marsh’s awareness of deforestation, soil erosion, desertification, flooding, biotic impoverishment, and prospective systemic changes for an Earth at risk from less immediately visible but even graver, longer-lasting, more globalized and more intractable anthropogenic damage.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Psyllium Extract on Helicobacter pylori Interaction With Gastric Epithelial Cells
Authors: Yakoob Javed , Jafri Wasim , Mehmood Malik Hassan , Abbas Zaigham , Tariq Kanwal
Published: October 2015

Natural plant product Psyllium has anti-inflammatory activity that can modulate the function of cytokines. We determined the effect of Psyllium husk extract on interleukin (IL)-8 and NF-κB secretion by gastric epithelial cells in response to Helicobacter pylori. Human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line (AGS) cells were pretreated with Psyllium extract in different concentrations before H pylori infection. Cell culture supernatant was analyzed for IL-8 and NF-κB by ELISA. RNA from cells was used for real-time polymerase chain reaction for messenger RNA expression of IL-8. Psyllium extract 5 and 10 μg/mL markedly ( P < .001) lowered basal IL-8 by 64.71% and 74.51%, respectively, and H pylori–stimulated IL-8 was also ( P < .001) lowered by 41.67% and 66.67%, respectively. Psyllium 5 and 10 μg/mL also reduced ( P < .0001) cagA-positive H pylori–induced IL-8 mRNA expression by 42.3% and 67.6%, respectively. Psyllium also reduced ( P = .0001) NF-κB in response to H pylori strains confirming its role as an anti-inflammatory agent.
HCV-infected cells and differentiation increase monocyte immunoregulatory galectin-9 production
Authors: Harwood Noah M K , Golden-Mason Lucy , Cheng Linling , Rosen Hugo R , Mengshol John A
Published: October 2015

The lectin galectin-9 may help establish and maintain chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Galectin-9 is elevated in the liver and sera of hepatitis C virus patients, induces apoptosis of hepatitis C virus-specific T cells, and increases inhibitory regulatory T cells. Kupffer cells stain strongly for galectin-9 protein in hepatitis C virus patients. In the current study, we determined stimuli that induce galectin-9 production by monocytes and macrophages in hepatitis C virus infection. With the use of real-time PCR and flow cytometry, we analyzed galectin-9 mRNA and protein from human monocytes cocultured with hepatitis C virus-infected cells or noninfectious hepatitis C virus subgenomic replicon cells. We focused on finding the stimuli for galectin-9 production. Additionally, we measured galectin-9 during monocyte-to-macrophage maturation. Finally, we examined galectin-9 in peripheral monocytes from hepatitis C virus patients using flow cytometry. Galectin-9 mRNA increased 8-fold when primary monocytes were exposed to hepatitis C virus--infected cells. Maximum induction required proximity or contact and did not require IFN-γ or hepatitis C virus virions. Coculture of monocytes with subgenomic replicon cells increased galectin-9 5-fold, and purified exosomes from infected cells stimulated galectin-9 production. Stimulation of monocyte TLR3, -7, and -8 increased galectin-9 production. Differentiation of monocytes to macrophages increased galectin-9, and nonclassic monocytes from hepatitis C virus patients had the highest levels of galectin-9. Hepatitis C virus-infected cells stimulated monocytes to produce galectin-9 in close proximity, possibly, in part, as a result of exosomes and endosomal TLRs. Differentiation of monocytes to macrophages increased galectin-9. Nonclassic monocytes from hepatitis C virus patients express the highest galectin-9 levels, suggesting they may contribute to elevated galectin-9 and adaptive immune inhibition in hepatitis C virus infection.
Siglecs take a TOLL on inflammation: deciphering the Hsp70 riddle
Authors: Calderwood Stuart K , Murshid Ayesha
Published: October 2015

The manuscript by Fong et al () in this issue of The EMBO Journal addresses an ongoing question in immunology: are extracellular HSPs endogenous inflammatory signals or are they in fact built‐in inhibitors of those same functions? In a highly original series of experiments, they identify novel Hsp70 receptors in monocytes as members of the Siglec family. Even more significantly, two Siglec family members transmitted divergent responses to Hsp70, with Siglec‐5 dampening inflammation while Siglec‐14 triggering the inflammatory cascade. These findings therefore go some way in addressing the open question: is Hsp70 pro‐ or anti‐inflammatory and leaving us with the answer yes.
The gut microbiota modulates host amino acid and glutathione metabolism in mice
Authors: Mardinoglu Adil , Shoaie Saeed , Bergentall Mattias , Ghaffari Pouyan , Zhang Cheng , Larsson Erik , Bäckhed Fredrik , Nielsen Jens
Published: October 2015

The gut microbiota has been proposed as an environmental factor that promotes the progression of metabolic diseases. Here, we investigated how the gut microbiota modulates the global metabolic differences in duodenum, jejunum, ileum, colon, liver, and two white adipose tissue depots obtained from conventionally raised (CONV‐R) and germ‐free (GF) mice using gene expression data and tissue‐specific genome‐scale metabolic models (GEMs). We created a generic mouse metabolic reaction (MMR) GEM, reconstructed 28 tissue‐specific GEMs based on proteomics data, and manually curated GEMs for small intestine, colon, liver, and adipose tissues. We used these functional models to determine the global metabolic differences between CONV‐R and GF mice. Based on gene expression data, we found that the gut microbiota affects the host amino acid (AA) metabolism, which leads to modifications in glutathione metabolism. To validate our predictions, we measured the level of AAs and N‐acetylated AAs in the hepatic portal vein of CONV‐R and GF mice. Finally, we simulated the metabolic differences between the small intestine of the CONV‐R and GF mice accounting for the content of the diet and relative gene expression differences. Our analyses revealed that the gut microbiota influences host amino acid and glutathione metabolism in mice.
Future directions in the diagnosis and medical treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Creemers S G , Hofland L J , Korpershoek E , Franssen G J H , van Kemenade F J , de Herder W W , Feelders R A
Published: October 2015

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare disease with a poor prognosis. Discrimination between ACCs and adrenocortical adenomas (ACAs) remains challenging, with the current gold standard being the Weiss score, consisting of several histopathological characteristics. However, new markers like Ki67, a marker for proliferation, and the staining of reticulins are promising not only as it comes to identifying malignancy but also as prognostic markers in patients with ACC. Currently, surgery is still the only curative treatment for ACC. Mitotane, an adrenolytic drug, is used in the adjuvant setting and in case of metastatic or advanced disease. Patients with progressive disease are frequently treated with mitotane, alone or in combination with etoposide, doxorubicine and cisplatin. Radiotherapy is indicated in selected cases. The low response rates and high toxicity of the systemic therapies emphasize the need for markers that enable the identification of responders and non-responders. Consequently, research is focusing on predictive factors varying from the expression of DNA repair genes to clinical patient characteristics. Subgroups of ACC with different prognosis have been identified based on transcriptome characteristics. As a conclusion from large molecular studies, ACCs appear to harbor many abnormalities compared to ACAs. Altered pathways driving ACC pathogenesis include the IGF, TP53 and the Wnt signaling pathway, allowing these as new potential targets for medical therapy. However, despite efforts in preclinical and clinical studies investigating efficacy of targeting these pathways, most novel therapies appear to be effective in only a subset of patients with ACC. New treatment concepts are therefore urgently needed.
A bal kamra korszerű echokardiográfiás vizsgálata – az M-módtól a 3D speckle-tracking képalkotásig
Authors: Nemes Attila , Forster Tamás
Published: October 2015

The left ventricle has a vital role in maintaining circulation of the body, therefore, its non-invasive assessment is essential. The aim of the present review is to demonstrate clinical relevance of different echocardiographic methods in the evaluation of left ventricle emphasizing the importance of the most recent three-dimensional (and) speckle-tracking methodologies. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(43), 1723–1740.
Nagy mennyiségű energiaital okozta jelentős QT-megnyúlás
Authors: Tomcsányi János , Jávor Kinga
Published: October 2015

The authors report a case of a 22-year-old man with atypical chest pain after consumption of six energy drinks (1.5 liter containing 470 mg coffein) with vodka. On admission ECG showed marked QT/QTc prolongation (QT/QTc, 520/580 msec). Next day the QT/QTc returned to fully normal (QT/QTc, 360/430 msec). It was assumed that the patient had a silent long QT syndrome and that high dose of highly caffeinated energy drink triggered the (paradoxical) prolonged QT/QTc. The authors conclude that excessive energy drink intake with alcohol or during physical exercise should be avoided. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(43), 1758–1760.
Active Listening by Hospital Chaplaincy Volunteers
Authors: Manzano Ana , Swift Chris , Closs S. , Briggs Michelle
Published: October 2015

Active listening (AL) is a communication technique frequently used in counselling. This study explored the feasibility of implementing a ward based AL intervention for patients by chaplaincy volunteers in the UK National Health Service. Seven focus groups (n=47) included healthcare researchers, lecturers, nurses, patients, AL tutors, active listeners volunteers and chaplaincy volunteers. Acceptability and perceived effectiveness of a patient/volunteer listener intervention were explored. Analysis followed the framework approach. Four themes emerged: (a) Listening as a wellbeing generator; (b) Benefits of AL delivered by volunteers; (c) Spirituality and public perceptions of hospital chaplaincy; (d) Challenges of structured communication techniques in acute care. Participants reported positive attitudes towards the introduction of AL provided by volunteers in acute wards. They shared a common belief that when people are listened to, wellbeing improves through control, choice and empowerment. Patients’ acceptability of the intervention increased if it was delivered by volunteers.
Spirituality, Religion and Psychiatric Practice in New Zealand
Authors: Butcher Wyatt
Published: October 2015

This research conducted in New Zealand, sought to identify psychiatrists’ attitudes and practice with regard to religious and spiritual issues in mental health. The research extends upon previous work exploring more broadly the attitudes of physicians regarding religion, spirituality and medicine (Curlin, Lawrence, et al. 2007). An online survey was developed and advertised in the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists on-line newsletter. Nearly one fifth of all registered psychiatrists in New Zealand participated in the survey. In overall terms the opinions and attitudes of respondents regarding religion/spirituality and its importance in mental health care were found to be mixed. This study suggests, however, that in New Zealand ethnicity is the single most significant factor that determines a psychiatrist’s opinion and practice with respect to religion and spirituality. Research limitations are noted as are suggestions for future research.
Healthcare Chaplains Responding to Change
Authors: Nolan Steve
Published: October 2015

The economic constraints reshaping Western healthcare are profoundly changing the reality in which healthcare chaplaincy is practiced. The recent ‘call to action’ issued by an international group of leading chaplains acknowledges the complexity of the emerging context and, on the grounds that current healthcare cost are unsustainable and the requirement to put patient needs at the centre of healthcare, they urge chaplains to adopt the outcomes approach that is the ‘new currency’ of healthcare in industrialized countries, and develop outcomes that are ‘replicable and predictable’. To the extent that the outcomes approach is aimed at improving spiritual care, the call to action is to be welcomed. However, this paper argues that adapting to the new reality ‘replicable and predictable outcomes’ will likely impact chaplaincy values as much as professional practice. The paper argues that this will be at the cost of distorting the values and beliefs that chaplains have held to be important to spiritual care.
Ground of Our Being
Authors: Hijazi Mohammad
Published: October 2015

This article is a personal reflection by a Muslim university chaplain regarding Muslim heritage, identity and connectedness among Muslims in Australia. It considers a number of challenges that Muslims face in the Australian community and more specifically within the university and prison contexts. Advocating an Islamic philosophy as being the ideal religion, it presents a Muslim chaplain’s approach to pastoral care practice. A version of this article was first given as a paper presented at the 2015 Spiritual Care Australia national chaplains’ conference and it is supplemented here by a response (also within this edition) from two reviewers who have critically reflected upon the author’s perspective (see Cohen and Duncan in this issue of the journal, pp. 166–73).
Transforming Ground of Our Being
Authors: Bachelard Sarah
Published: October 2015

This article explores whether or not it is important that spiritual carers are grounded in a particular religious tradition. The article’s focus is not primarily on the possibility and limits of interfaith spiritual care, but on the relationship between spiritual care and religious belonging and practice. While it is written from a Christian perspective, the article hopes to raise issues concerning the practice of spiritual care relevant to those of other traditions as well. This is an edited version of a conference paper presented at the “The Ground of Our Being” Spiritual Care Australia Conference, Hobart,Tasmania 2015.
Persistent Sydenham’s chorea is not associated with sustained lymphocyte dysfunction
Authors: Torres Karen Cecília de Lima , Rocha Natália Pessoa , Rezende Vítor Bortolo de , Dutra Walderez Ornelas , Gollob Kenneth John , Cardoso Francisco , Teixeira Antonio Lucio
Published: October 2015

The mechanisms involved in the symptoms of Sydenham’s chorea (SC) remain obscure. Taking into account the autoreactive antibody-mediated hypothesis of SC pathogenesis, the persistence of chorea may be associated with increased levels of B1 lymphocytes and other lymphocyte subsets. We evaluated lymphocyte subsets, including B1 and T cells, in patients with remitted (RSC) and persistent (PSC) SC by flow cytometry. Our results showed neither difference in the frequency of T and B lymphocytes subpopulations nor in their activation and functional states. These findings undermine the view of PSC as a sustained cytotoxic cellular-mediated condition. Alternative mechanisms may explain the pathogenesis of PSC.
Migraine patients consistently show abnormal vestibular bedside tests
Authors: Maranhão Eliana Teixeira , Maranhão-Filho Péricles , Luiz Ronir Raggio , Vincent Maurice Borges
Published: October 2015

Migraine and vertigo are common disorders, with lifetime prevalences of 16% and 7% respectively, and co-morbidity around 3.2%. Vestibular syndromes and dizziness occur more frequently in migraine patients. We investigated bedside clinical signs indicative of vestibular dysfunction in migraineurs. Objective To test the hypothesis that vestibulo-ocular reflex, vestibulo-spinal reflex and fall risk (FR) responses as measured by 14 bedside tests are abnormal in migraineurs without vertigo, as compared with controls. Method Cross-sectional study including sixty individuals – thirty migraineurs, 25 women, 19-60 y-o; and 30 gender/age healthy paired controls. Results Migraineurs showed a tendency to perform worse in almost all tests, albeit only the Romberg tandem test was statistically different from controls. A combination of four abnormal tests better discriminated the two groups (93.3% specificity). Conclusion Migraine patients consistently showed abnormal vestibular bedside tests when compared with controls.
USO DE GEOTECNOLOGIAS PARA O ESTABELECIMENTO DE ÁREAS PARA CORREDORES DE BIODIVERSIDADE
Authors: Oliveira Ana Paula Garcia , Mioto Camila Leonardo , Paranhos Filho Antonio Conceição , Gamarra Roberto Macedo , Ribeiro Alisson André , Melotto Alex Marcel
Published: October 2015

RESUMOCorredores de biodiversidade são estruturas ambientais com a finalidade de conservar e recuperar a biodiversidade. Aplicam-se, principalmente, a áreas degradadas pelo desenvolvimento humano desordenado, que favorece a fragmentação florestal e a perda da conectividade entre os diversos hábitats. Utilizando o sensoriamento remoto e sistemas de informações geográficas, buscou-se identificar áreas para atuarem como corredores de biodiversidade, possibilitando, assim, o fluxo gênico entre os fragmentos remanescentes e as áreas de preservação permanente. Para tanto, foi realizada uma análise espacial dos fragmentos remanescentes em São Gabriel do Oeste, Mato Grosso do Sul, através de sua forma, tamanho e localização. Foram identificadas as áreas para os corredores a partir da localização de fragmentos com potencial, ou seja, de tamanho e conservação adequados, além de considerar a carta de classes das terras para mecanização e o mapa de áreas prioritárias para a conservação do Ministério do Meio Ambiente, permitindo a escolha de melhores áreas para corredores de biodiversidade. Verificou-se que as geotecnologias são importantes ferramentas de auxílio na determinação de áreas propícias para a análise integrada da paisagem, bem como de áreas propícias para implantação de corredores, gerando um cenário alternativo para a recuperação ambiental, o zoneamento ecológico e a conservação ambiental.