bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and Young's Modulus of Collagen Fibrils from Expanded Skin Using Anisotropic Controlled Rate Self-Inflating Tissue Expander
Authors: Manssor Nur Aini S. , Radzi Zamri , Yahya Noor Azlin , Mohamad Yusof Loqman , Hariri Firdaus , Khairuddin Nurul Hayah , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty , Czernuszka Jan T.
Published: February 2016

Mechanical properties of expanded skin tissue are different from normal skin, which is dependent mainly on the structural and functional integrity of dermal collagen fibrils. In the present study, mechanical properties and surface topography of both expanded and nonexpanded skin collagen fibrils were evaluated. Anisotropic controlled rate self-inflating tissue expanders were placed beneath the skin of sheep's forelimbs. The tissue expanders gradually increased in height and reached equilibrium in 2 weeks. They were left in situ for another 2 weeks before explantation. Expanded and normal skin samples were surgically harvested from the sheep (n = 5). Young's modulus and surface topography of collagen fibrils were measured using an atomic force microscope. A surface topographic scan showed organized hierarchical structural levels: collagen molecules, fibrils and fibers. No significant difference was detected for the D-banding pattern: 63.5 ± 2.6 nm (normal skin) and 63.7 ± 2.7 nm (expanded skin). Fibrils from expanded tissues consisted of loosely packed collagen fibrils and the width of the fibrils was significantly narrower compared to those from normal skin: 153.9 ± 25.3 and 106.7 ± 28.5 nm, respectively. Young's modulus of the collagen fibrils in the expanded and normal skin was not statistically significant: 46.5 ± 19.4 and 35.2 ± 27.0 MPa, respectively. In conclusion, the anisotropic controlled rate self-inflating tissue expander produced a loosely packed collagen network and the fibrils exhibited similar D-banding characteristics as the control group in a sheep model. However, the fibrils from the expanded skin were significantly narrower. The stiffness of the fibrils from the expanded skin was higher but it was not statistically different.
Synergistic Inhibition of Enamel Demineralization by Peptide 8DSS and Fluoride
Authors: Yang Yang , Lv Xueping , Shi Wenyuan , Zhou Xuedong , Li Jiyao , Zhang Linglin
Published: February 2016

The biomimetic peptide 8DSS has shown beneficial effects in promoting remineralization of demineralized enamel in vitro. Here we examined the ability of 8DSS alone and in combination with fluoride to inhibit enamel demineralization during pH-cycling mimicking intraoral conditions. Enamel blocks were subjected to 9 days of pH-cycling in the presence of 1,000 ppm NaF (positive control), distilled-deionized water (DDW; negative control), 25 μM 8DSS alone, 25 μM 8DSS with 500 ppm NaF (8DSS-FL) or 25 μM 8DSS with 1,000 ppm NaF (8DSS-FH) twice daily for 1 min each time. The blocks were analyzed in terms of surface microhardness (SMH), fluoride uptake and mineral content. The 8DSS-treated blocks showed significantly lower mineral loss, shallower lesions and higher SMH than the DDW-treated blocks. No significant differences were observed between the blocks treated with 8DSS alone or fluoride alone. The blocks treated with 8DSS alone or DDW showed similar amounts of fluoride uptake, which was the lowest of all the treatment groups. The blocks treated with 8DSS-FL or 8DSS-FH did not differ significantly, and both groups showed significantly greater SMH and fluoride uptake as well as significantly lower mineral loss and shallower lesions than the NaF-treated blocks. Mineral content was significantly higher in the 8DSS-treated blocks than in the DDW-treated blocks from the surface layer (10 µm) to the lesion depth (110 µm), and it was significantly higher in the blocks treated with 8DSS-FL or 8DSS-FH than in the NaF-treated blocks from 10 to 90 µm. These findings illustrate the potential of 8DSS for inhibiting enamel demineralization and for enhancing the anticaries effect of NaF.
Etiology and Prevention of Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Yang Chung S. , Chen Xiaoxin , Tu Shuiping
Published: February 2016

Background: Esophageal cancer (EC) occurs commonly, especially in Asia, and is the sixth leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Recently, great progress has been made in research on the etiology and prevention of EC. Summary: The major risk factors for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) are tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking, which act synergistically. Dietary parameters, including dietary carcinogens and insufficiency of micronutrients, could also be important risk factors in certain areas. A common etiological factor for both EC and some other cancers are low levels of intake of fruits and vegetables. With improvements in diet and drinking water in developing countries, the incidence of ESCC decreased. However, in economically well-developed countries, the incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) has markedly increased in the past 40 years. The major etiological factor for EAC is gastroesophageal reflux, which is also an etiological factor for gastric cardia adenocarcinoma (GCA). In certain areas of China, the occurrence of GCA is closely related to ESCC. Susceptibility genes for EC are starting to be discovered, and this may help to identify high-risk groups that have more need for preventive measures. Mitigation of the risk factors, early detection and treatment of precancerous lesions are effective approaches for prevention. Smoking cessation, avoidance of excessive alcohol, meat and caloric consumption, increasing physical activity and frequent consumption of vegetables and fruits are prudent lifestyle modifications for the prevention of EC as well as other diseases. Key Message: The etiology of EC includes tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking, low levels of intake of fruits and vegetables as well as gastroesophageal reflux and susceptibility genes. Practical Implications: A healthy lifestyle including smoking cessation, increasing physical activity, consumption of vegetables as well as reduction of alcohol intake and caloric consumption are major approaches to the prevention of EC.
A Scoring System to Predict Arm Lymphedema Risk for Individual Chinese Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Wang Ling , Li Hui-Ping , Liu An-Nuo , Wang De-Bin , Yang Ya-Juan , Duan Yan-Qin , Zhang Qing-Na
Published: February 2016

Background: Lymphedema (LE) is recognized as a common complication after axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Numerous studies have attempted to identify risk factors for LE. However, it is difficult to predict the probability of LE for an individual patient. The purpose of this study was to construct a scoring system for predicting the probability of LE after ALND for Chinese breast cancer patients. Patients and Methods: 358 breast cancer patients were surveyed and followed for 12 months. LE was defined by circumferential measurement. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to screen risk factors of LE. Based on this, ß-coefficient of each risk factor was translated into a prognostic score and the scoring system was constructed. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration were calculated as an index for the predictive value of the scoring system. The model was internally validated using bootstrapping techniques. Results: The incidence rate of LE was 31.84%. Variables associated with LE and their corresponding score in the scoring system were: the level of ALND (level I = 0, level II = 1, level III = 2), history of hypertension (yes = 1, no = 0), surgery on dominant arm (yes = 1, no = 0), radiotherapy (yes = 2, no = 0), and surgical infection/seroma/early edema (yes = 2, no = 0). The probability of LE was predicted according to the total risk scores. The system had good discrimination, with an AUC at 0.877. If a cut-off value of 3 was used, the sensitivity was 81.20% and the specificity was 80.90%. An individual whose total risk score was higher than 3 was recognized as being at risk for LE. On internal validation, the bootstrap-corrected predictive accuracy was 0.798. The model demonstrated excellent calibration in the development set and internal validation. Conclusions: Our scoring system could be a simple and easy tool for physicians to estimate the risk of LE.
Evaluation of Social Support, Quality of Life, and Body Image in Women with Breast Cancer
Authors: Spatuzzi Roberta , Vespa Anna , Lorenzi Primo , Miccinesi Guido , Ricciuti Marcello , Cifarelli Wanda , Susi Marina , Fabrizio Tommaso , Ferrari Maria G. , Ottaviani Marica , Giulietti Maria V. , Merico Fabiana , Aieta Michele
Published: February 2016

Background: This study was aimed at comparing the quality of life, body image, and perceived social support in women with breast cancer surgery. Patients and Methods: Patients receiving breast-conserving surgery (BCS) (n = 72), mastectomy alone (n = 44), and mastectomy with breast reconstruction (n = 41) were evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), the EORTC Breast Cancer Module (QLQ-BR23), the Body Image Scale (BIS) and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Results: The results indicated that the BCS group had a better body image compared with the other 2 groups and better role functioning compared with the mastectomy-alone group. In the reconstruction group, body image correlated with perceived social support, especially from family and significant others. Conclusion: These results suggest that a positive perception of a supportive social network can help women with breast reconstruction to better cope with the psychological effects of surgery on their body image.
Prognostic Implications of Acute Renal Impairment among ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients with Preserved Left Ventricular Function
Authors: Shacham Yacov , Gal-Oz Amir , Ben-Shoshan Jeremy , Keren Gad , Arbel Yaron
Published: February 2016

Background: Only limited data is present regarding the incidence and prognostic implications of acute kidney injury (AKI) in ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with preserved left ventricular (LV) function in the primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) era. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 842 consecutive STEMI patients with preserved LV function (ejection fraction ≥50%, assessed by echocardiography) who underwent primary PCI between January 2008 and January 2015. AKI was defined as an increase of ≥0.3 mg/dl in serum creatinine within 48 h following admission. Patients were assessed for all-cause mortality up to 5 years. Results: Fifty-two patients (6.2%) developed AKI. Patients with AKI were older, had impaired baseline renal function, and presented more often with heart failure throughout their hospitalization. Patients with AKI had a higher 5-year all-cause mortality (13.4 vs. 2.4%, p < 0.001). Compared to patients with no AKI, the adjusted hazard ratio for all-cause mortality was 2.64 (95% CI 1.25-5.56, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Among STEMI patients with preserved LV function undergoing primary PCI, AKI is associated with a higher long-term mortality.
Split Hand/Foot Malformation Associated with 7q21.3 Microdeletion: A Case Report
Authors: Sivasankaran Aswini , Srikanth Ambika , Kulshreshtha Pooja S. , Anuradha Deenadayalu , Kadandale Jayarama S. , Samuel Chandra R.
Published: February 2016

Split hand/foot malformation (SHFM) or ectrodactyly is a rare genetic condition affecting limb development. SHFM shows clinical and genetic heterogeneity. It can present as an isolated form or in combination with additional anomalies affecting the long bones (nonsyndromic form) or other organ systems including the craniofacial, genitourinary and ectodermal structures (syndromic ectrodactyly). This study reports a girl with SHFM who also exhibited developmental delay, mild dysmorphic facial features and sensorineural hearing loss. High-resolution banding analysis indicated an interstitial deletion within the 7q21 band. FISH using locus-specific BAC probes confirmed the microdeletion of 7q21.3. Chromosomal microarray analysis also revealed a microdeletion of 1.856 Mb in 7q21.3. However, a larger 8.44-Mb deletion involving bands 7q21.11q21.2 was observed, and the breakpoints were refined. The phenotype and the candidate genes underlying the pathogenesis of this disorder are discussed.
Endothelium-Dependent and -Independent Vasodilator Effects of Dimethyl Sulfoxide in Rat Aorta
Authors: Kaneda Takeharu , Sasaki Noriyasu , Urakawa Norimoto , Shimizu Kazumasa
Published: February 2016

This study examined the mechanism of vasorelaxation induced by dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in endothelium-intact and -denuded rat aorta. DMSO (0.1-3%) inhibited phenylephrine (PE, 1 μmol/l)-induced contraction in a dose-dependent manner. However, this relaxation was lower in the absence of the endothelium. Increase in DMSO-induced relaxation in the presence of the endothelium was attenuated by preincubation in L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 100 μmol/l) and by the removal of the endothelium. In the aorta with endothelium, DMSO (3%) and CCh (3 μmol/l) increased cGMP contents, significantly and L-NAME (100 μmol/l) inhibited the DMSO-induced increases of cGMP. In fura 2-loaded endothelium-denuded aorta, cumulative application of DMSO (1-3%) inhibited PE-induced muscle tension; however, this application did not affect the [Ca2+]i level. In PE-precontracted endothelium-denuded aorta, relaxation responses to fasudil were significantly less in the presence of DMSO compared to the control. These results suggest that DMSO causes relaxation by increasing the cGMP content in correlation with the release of NO from endothelial cells and by decreasing the Ca2+ sensitivity of contractile elements partly via inhibiting Rho-kinase in rat aorta.
Efficacy of Desmopressin to Treat Nocturnal Polyuria in Elderly Men: Effects on Sleep Quality
Authors: Kim Sun-Ouck , Yu Ho Song , Kwon Dongdeuk
Published: February 2016

Background: We investigated the efficacy of desmopressin in elderly patients with nocturnal polyuria (NP) to evaluate its effects on sleep quality. Methods: Patients with NP (defined as the nighttime urine production >33% of total 24-hour urine volume determined from a frequency-volume chart) were recruited. Desmopressin (0.2 mg) was treated orally at bedtime for 12 weeks. The participants completed the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Sleep Scale. Results: The mean patient age was 62.7 ± 13.0 (range 42-78 years). The mean symptom duration was 42.2 ± 39.7 months. The number of nocturia episodes (from 3.49 ± 1.83 to 2.03 ± 1.35, p = 0.01), nocturnal urine volume (p = 0.01), NP index (p = 0.01), and nocturia index (p = 0.01) decreased significantly after treatment with desmopressin. Among the MOS Sleep Scale categories, hours slept/night (p = 0.042), shortness of breath (p = 0.019), and adequacy of sleep (p = 0.001) changed significantly with a decrease in the number of nocturia episodes. Adverse events were mild. Conclusions: Desmopressin is an effective treatment for NP and improved sleep quality in elderly men.
Effects of Somatostatin Analogs and Dopamine Agonists on Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2-Induced Insulin Receptor Isoform A Activation by Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor Cells
Authors: van Adrichem Roxanne C.S. , de Herder Wouter W. , Kamp Kimberly , Brugts Michael P. , de Krijger Ronald R. , Sprij-Mooij Diana M. , Lamberts Steven W.J. , van Koetsveld Peter M. , Janssen Joseph A.M.J.L. , Hofland Leo J.
Published: February 2016

Background: Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) express insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-related factors [IGF1, IGF2; insulin receptor (IR)-A, IR-B; IGF-binding protein (IGFBP) 1-3] as well as somatostatin (SSTRs) and dopamine D2 receptors (D2Rs). Objectives: To (1) compare mRNA expression of IGF-related factors in human pancreatic NET (panNET) cell lines with that in human GEP-NETs to evaluate the usefulness of these cells as a model for studying the IGF system in GEP-NETs, (2) determine whether panNET cells produce growth factors that activate IR-A, and (3) investigate whether somatostatin analogs (SSAs) and/or dopamine agonists (DAs) influence the production of these growth factors. Methods: In panNET cells (BON-1 and QGP-1) and GEP-NETs, mRNA expression of IGF-related factors was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Effects of the SSAs octreotide and pasireotide (PAS), the DA cabergoline (CAB), and the dopastatin BIM-23A760 (all 100 nM) were evaluated at the IGF2 mRNA and protein level (by ELISA) and regarding IR-A bioactivity (by kinase receptor activation assay) in panNET cells. Results: panNET cells and GEP-NETs had comparable expression profiles of IGF-related factors. Especially in BON-1 cells, IGF2 and IR-A were most highly expressed. PAS + CAB inhibited IGF2 (-29.5 ± 4.9%, p < 0.01) and IGFBP3 (-20.0 ± 4.0%, p < 0.01) mRNA expression in BON-1 cells. In BON-1 cells, IGF2 protein secretion was significantly inhibited with BIM-23A760 (-23.7 ± 3.8%). BON-1- but not QGP-1- conditioned medium stimulated IR-A bioactivity. In BON-1 cells, IR-A bioactivity was inhibited by BIM-23A760 and PAS + CAB (-37.8 ± 2.1% and -30.9 ± 4.1%, respectively, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: (1) The BON-1 cell line is a representative model for studying the IGF system in GEP-NETs, (2) BON-1 cells produce growth factors (IGF2) activating IR-A, and (3) combined SSTR and D2R targeting with PAS + CAB and BIM-23A760 suppresses IGF2-induced IR-A activation.
Combined Administration of Ghrelin and Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone in the Diagnosis of Cushing's Disease
Authors: Miljić Dragana , Polovina Snežana , Doknić Mirjana , Pekić Sandra , Stojanović Marko , Petakov Milan , Micić Dragan , Popović Vera
Published: February 2016

Background/Aims: Exaggerated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol responses to ghrelin in Cushing's disease (CD) have previously been reported, similarly to responses to corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). We assessed the ability of ghrelin to enhance ACTH and cortisol responses when added to CRH stimulation in CD patients. Methods: In 21 CD patients (18 females, 3 males; age 49.8 ± 10.2 years; BMI 29.8 ± 0.8) and 8 healthy subjects (7 females, 1 male; age 40.6 ± 5.3 years; BMI 29.9 ± 1.2), we administered (1) ghrelin 100 µg i.v. bolus, (2) CRH 100 µg i.v. bolus, and (3) ghrelin + CRH combination. ACTH and cortisol were analyzed by commercially available kits from samples taken at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 min. ACTH and cortisol responses were calculated as peak and area under the curve (AUC0-120 min). Results: ACTH and cortisol at baseline and stimulated with ghrelin and/or CRH (peak and AUC0-120 min) were significantly higher in CD patients compared to controls (p < 0.01). ACTH and cortisol responses to ghrelin or CRH were similar in CD patients. Combined ghrelin + CRH administration in CD patients produced the highest ACTH response (peak and AUC0-120 min) compared to ghrelin or CRH alone (p < 0.01). Cortisol responses after ghrelin + CRH were uncoupled with ACTH responses and similar to the response to ghrelin or CRH alone in both groups. ACTH and cortisol responses, during all three tests, were similar in CD patients with micro- or macroadenomas. Conclusion: Ghrelin administration causes exaggerated ACTH and cortisol responses in CD patients compared to healthy controls. In combination with CRH, it additionally enhances ACTH secretion without further additive effect on cortisol output.
Microhabitat Influence on Growth Distribution Pattern of Ramin (Gonystylus bancanus) in Siak, Riau Province
Authors: Pribadi Didit Okta , Kusuma Yayan Wahyu C.
Published: February 2016

Plant growth distribution patterns are influenced by distribution of habitat characteristics, capacity of adaptation, and association with other plant species or animals. Global climate change has serious impact on the changing habitat which eventually threat plants. This study has objectives: (1) to measure plant growth dependence on their microhabitat; (2) to define microhabitat variables that influence growth significantly; and (3) to formulate suitable conservation efforts for certain species.Â  Gonystylus bancanus is one of major timber species that has been facing high exploitation in Indonesia. This species is usually found on specific â€œpeat swampsâ€ ecosystem. Data were collected through primary surveys in Riau Province.Â  Data analyses were peformed by clustering the adult base on variable of height and width of basalt area, and describing distribution pattern of the cluster. Then, Discriminant Function Analysis was used to overlay the cluster with the distribution of microhabitat characteristic consisting of altitude, slope, soil humidity, soil pH, peat depth and percentage of canopy cover. The result shows, distribution of microhabitat match with 67.4% of height distribution and 78.3% of width distribution of basalt area.Â  Altitude and canopy cover percentage have significant correlation with height distribution (Î±=0.05).Â  Meanwhile, altitude, canopy cover, and slope have significant correlation with width distribution of basalt area (Î±=0.1).Â  However, peat depth variable shows interesting pattern since shallower peat depth are followed by wider of basalt area. High correlation between plant growth and its microhabitat suggests that in-situ conservation is better strategy than ex-situ conservation and this is particularly true for Gonystylus bancanus conservation management
Longitudinal Study of Left Ventricular Mass Growth
Authors: Agarwal Rajiv
Published: February 2016

Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is an established cardiovascular risk factor, yet little is known about its trajectory in people with chronic kidney disease. The goal of this prospective research study was to describe the trajectory of LV mass index, its relationship with blood pressure (BP), and specifically to compare the relationship of BP measured in the clinic and 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring with LV mass index. Among 274 veterans with chronic kidney disease followed for over ≤4 years, the rate of growth of log LV mass index was inversely related to baseline LV mass index; it was rapid in the first 2 years, and plateaued subsequently. Systolic BP also significantly increased, but linearly, 1.7 mm Hg/y by clinic measurements and 1.8 mm Hg/y by 24-hour ambulatory BP. Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of both clinic BP and 24-hour ambulatory BP with LV mass index were similar; both BP recording methods were associated with LV mass index and its growth over time. Controlled hypertension, masked uncontrolled hypertension, and uncontrolled hypertension categories had increasing LV mass index when diagnosed by 24-hour ambulatory and awake BP (
P
<0.05 for linear trend) but not sleep BP. After accounting for clinic BP both at baseline and longitudinally, LV mass index among individuals was additionally predicted by the difference in sleep systolic BP and clinic systolic BP (
P
=0.032). In conclusion, among people with chronic kidney disease, the growth of LV mass index is rapid. Research-grade clinic BP is useful to assess LV mass index and its growth over time.
Dissociable Effects of Dopamine on the Initial Capture and the Reactive Inhibition of Impulsive Actions in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: van Wouwe Nelleke C. , Kanoff Kristen E. , Claassen Daniel O. , Spears Charis A. , Neimat Joseph , van den Wildenberg Wery P. M. , Wylie Scott A.
Published: February 2016

Dopamine plays a key role in a range of action control processes. Here, we investigate how dopamine depletion caused by Parkinson disease (PD) and how dopamine restoring medication modulate the expression and suppression of unintended action impulses. Fifty-five PD patients and 56 healthy controls (HCs) performed an action control task (Simon task). PD patients completed the task twice, once withdrawn from dopamine medications and once while taking their medications. PD patients experienced similar susceptibility to making fast errors in conflict trials as HCs, but PD patients were less proficient compared with HCs at suppressing incorrect responses. Administration of dopaminergic medications had no effect on impulsive error rates but significantly improved the proficiency of inhibitory control in PD patients. We found no evidence that dopamine precursors and agonists affected action control in PD differently. Additionally, there was no clear evidence that individual differences in baseline action control (off dopamine medications) differentially responded to dopamine medications (i.e., no evidence for an inverted U-shaped performance curve). Together, these results indicate that dopamine depletion and restoration therapies directly modulate the reactive inhibitory control processes engaged to suppress interference from the spontaneously activated response impulses but exert no effect on an individual's susceptibility to act on impulses.
Upper Beta Band Oscillations in Human Premotor Cortex Encode Subjective Choices in a Vibrotactile Comparison Task
Authors: Herding Jan , Spitzer Bernhard , Blankenburg Felix
Published: February 2016

Comparisons of sequentially presented vibrotactile frequencies have been extensively studied using electrophysiological recordings in nonhuman primates. Although neural signatures for working memory aspects of such tasks were recently also identified in human oscillatory EEG activity, homologue correlates of the comparison process are yet unknown. Here, we recorded EEG activity while participants decided which of two sequentially presented vibrotactile stimuli had a higher frequency. Because choices in this type of task are known to be systematically biased by the time-order effect, we applied Bayesian modeling to account for individual choice behavior. Using model-based EEG analysis, we found that upper beta band amplitude (∼20–30 Hz) was modulated by participants' choices. The modulation emerged ∼750 msec before a behavioral response was given and was source-localized to premotor areas.Importantly, the choice-dependent modulation of beta band amplitude was invariant to different motor response mappings and reflected the categorical outcome of the subjective comparison between the two frequencies. Consistently, this pattern was evident for both correct and incorrect trials, indicating that the beta band amplitude mirrors the internal representation of the comparison outcome. Our data complement previous findings in nonhuman primates and corroborate that the beta band activity in premotor areas reflects the categorical outcome of a sensory comparison prior to translation into an effector-specific motor command.
The Lost Map of Matteo de’ Pasti: Cartography, Diplomacy, and Espionage in the Renaissance Adriatic
Authors: Roberts Sean
Published: February 2016

The sculptor Matteo de’ Pasti left Rimini in 1461 bound for Ottoman Sultan Mehmed ii’s court at Constantinople with gifts from Sigismondo Malatesta. When his ship stopped in Crete, Matteo was detained by the island’s Venetian authorities on charges of espionage. Contemporaries report that he carried with him a map, now lost, but assumed to be a strategically valuable one of the Adriatic. Discussions of Matteo’s mission claim that it attempted to supply the sultan with essential intelligence for an invasion of Italy.

Yet, this spy story finds little confirmation in historical sources. Indeed, our knowledge of the map’s very existence derives from the reports of Sigismondo’s enemies. I examine this prominent embassy as a means to reconsider attitudes toward the utility of maps in the scholarly imagination and the role of art and artists in early modern diplomacy. Revisiting documentary evidence and the claims scholars have grounded therein, I explore how we have told the tale of this journey in ways that conform to our own shifting expectations, sometimes at the expense of fidelity to the sources at hand. Overwhelming focus on the absent map has obscured both Matteo’s role as envoy and the distinctive place of evidently skillful and delightful visual culture in this attempted exchange.
Notes on the Rhyacophila scissa species group with description of two new taxa from China (Trichoptera, Rhyacophilidae)
Authors: SUN CHANG-HAI
Published: February 2016

One new species, R. meniscoides n. sp., and 1 new subspecies, R. morsei concaviuscula n. sp., are described, diagnosed and illustrated. Two diagnostic species complexes within the R. scissa Species Group, the R. scissa Diagnostic Species Complex and the R. schismatica Diagnostic Species Complex, are recognized and delimited. The 15 previously described species and 1 new species and 1 new subspecies described in this article are assigned to the complexes accordingly. Distribution maps of all 17 members in the Species Group are presented.
Hydroporus golestanensis, a new species of the H. longulus group from northern Iran (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae: Hydroporinae)
Authors: HÁJEK JIŘÍ
Published: February 2016

Hydroporus golestanensis sp. nov. from Golestan Province, Iran, is described and illustrated. Based on the distinctly sinuate posterior margin of the metacoxal processes, the new species belongs to the H. longulus species group. Hydroporus golestanensis sp. nov. can be recognised from all the other species in the group by the pitchy-brown colouration of the elytra and by the almost symmetrical male median lobe, with distal third evenly tapering to a pointed apex in ventral view.
Management of Infectious Aspects of Atopic Dermatitis in Primary Care
Authors: Weitz Nicole A. , Brody Erica , Lauren Christine T. , Morel Kimberly D. , Paladine Heather , Garzon Maria C. , Krause Margaret C.
Published: February 2016

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common skin disease encountered by pediatric primary care providers. To describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary care residents in the management of infectious aspects of pediatric AD, an anonymous web-based survey was offered to all residents in the pediatric and family medicine departments at 3 New York City hospitals. Eighty residents responded. Most (62%) reported seeing 5 to 14 patients with AD monthly. Twenty-seven percent reported obtaining cultures prior to prescribing oral antibiotics most of the time, while 8% reported doing so before giving topical antibiotics. Most respondents (60%) reported never/rarely recommending dilute bleach baths, and family medicine residents were significantly more likely to report never doing so (67% vs 16%, P < .001). Greater education on the use of cultures to guide treatment and potential benefits of dilute bleach baths is needed, especially given increasing antibiotic resistance.
Amy’s Story: An Existential-Integrative Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy Approach to Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Lac Veronica
Published: February 2016

This article offers an existential-integrative framework to working with anorexia nervosa within an equine-facilitated psychotherapy setting. The discussion provides an overview of how existential-integrative theories can be blended into equine-facilitated psychotherapy and offers an existential-integrative perspective of anorexia nervosa. A case study illustrates the theories behind this blended approach in praxis.
Organization and Finance of China’s Health Sector
Authors: Li Hui , Hilsenrath Peter
Published: February 2016

China has exploded onto the world economy over the past few decades and is undergoing rapid transformation toward relatively more services. The health sector is an important part of this transition. This article provides a historical account of the development of health care in China since 1949. It also focuses on health insurance and macroeconomic structural adjustment to less saving and more consumption. In particular, the question of how health insurance impacts precautionary savings is considered. Multivariate analysis using data from 1990 to 2012 is employed. The household savings rate is the dependent variable in 3 models segmented for rural and urban populations. Independent variables include out-of-pocket health expenditures, health insurance payouts, housing expenditure, education expenditure, and consumption as a share of gross domestic product (GDP). Out-of-pocket health expenditures were positively correlated with household savings rates. But health insurance remains weak, and increased payouts by health insurers have not been associated with lower levels of household savings so far. Housing was positively correlated, whereas education had a negative association with savings rates. This latter finding was unexpected. Perhaps education is perceived as investment and a substitute for savings. China’s shift toward a more service-oriented economy includes growing dependence on the health sector. Better health insurance is an important part of this evolution. The organization and finance of health care is integrally linked with macroeconomic policy in an environment constrained by prevailing institutional convention. Problems of agency relationships, professional hegemony, and special interest politics feature prominently, as they do elsewhere. China also has a dual approach to medicine relying heavily on providers of traditional Chinese medicine. Both of these segments will take part in China’s evolution, adding another layer of complexity to policy.
Molecular prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica/dispar infection among patients attending four health centres in north-west Ethiopia
Authors: Yimer Mulat , Zenebe Yohannes , Mulu Wondemagegn , Abera Bayeh , Saugar José M
Published: February 2016

The prevalence of amoebiasis is often overestimated owing to its epidemiological overlap with the non-pathogenic Entamoeba dispar. To provide evidence for this conjecture, a cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2013 to January 2015. A range of 180–200 µg of semi-solid and formed stools and 200 µL of diarrhoeic stool samples were used for DNA extraction from microscopically E. histolytica/dispar positive samples using the QIAamp® DNA Stool Mini Kit according to manufacturers’ instructions. Nested PCR targeting 18S ribosomal RNA gene was used. In 422 microscopically positive E. histolytica/dispar stools, molecular prevalence revealed that E. histolytica infestation was present in only 1.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.47–2.93) and E. dispar was found in 42.2% (95% CI, 37.49–46.91), while 56.2% (95% CI, 51.47–60.93) had neither E. histolytica nor E. dispar ( P < 0.001). We conclude that infestation with E. histolytica is rarer in our study areas than was previously believed. Hence, accurate differentiation of E. histolytica and E. dispar is crucial.
Social Support, Mastery, and Psychological Distress in Black and White Older Adults
Authors: Morin Ruth T. , Midlarsky Elizabeth
Published: February 2016

Social support and mastery can protect against psychological distress in late life, carrying implications for theory and intervention. However, some groups have not been well studied, with African Americans receiving less empirical attention, especially in regard to their satisfaction with social support. In this study, samples of African American and White American community-dwelling older adults reported their perceived mastery, degree of psychological distress, and social support. A model investigating the separate relationships of these variables by race explained significantly more variance than a model for all participants combined. For both groups, mastery was significantly associated with lower psychological distress. However, among White Americans, social support was significantly associated with lower distress, while among African Americans, there was no relationship between satisfaction with social support and distress. The findings indicate that social support and mastery are important variables to consider in their relationship to psychological distress in later life and that diverse racial groups may display differing relationships among these variables.
Socio-economic status affects sentence repetition, but not non-word repetition, in Chilean preschoolers
Authors: Balladares Jaime , Marshall Chloë , Griffiths Yvonne
Published: February 2016

Sentence repetition and non-word repetition tests are widely used measures of language processing which are sensitive to language ability. Surprisingly little previous work has investigated whether children’s socio-economic status (SES) affects their sentence and non-word repetition accuracy. This study investigates sentence and non-word repetition using an adaptation of the Grammar and Phonology Screening (GAPS) test. The sample comprised 126 typically-developing Spanish-monolingual Chilean children aged 5;6 from low ( n = 65) and high ( n = 61) socio-economic status (SES) families. The results revealed that the high SES group scored significantly higher than the low SES group in the sentence repetition task, but there was no group difference for non-word repetition. The high SES group also scored significantly higher on a measure of vocabulary comprehension, and when vocabulary comprehension was taken into account, the group difference in sentence repetition was no longer significant. The authors examine how the differential effect of SES on sentence and non-word repetition might be explained by differences in the language and cognitive mechanisms involved in the two tasks, and discuss the clinical implications of their findings.
Let’s Call a Star a Star: Task Performance, External Status, and Exceptional Contributors in Organizations
Authors: Kehoe Rebecca R. , Lepak David P. , Bentley F. Scott
Published: February 2016

We develop a new typology of star employees, wherein we identify three types of stars—universal stars, performance stars, and status stars—on the basis of stars’ unique combinations of task performance and external status. By classifying stars in this way and disentangling task performance and external status as unique and simultaneously important qualities underlying the distinct contributions of different types of stars, we provide a basis for more accurately identifying the full range of individuals who create exceptional value, and we offer novel insights into stars’ various influences in organizations. With this foundation, we explore how different types of stars’ distinct qualities and bases of value creation affect both the security of their star standing and their relative abilities to appropriate value. We then expand our focus to consider stars in the broader organizational contexts in which they exist, discussing the implications of stars’ distinct attributes for patterns of value creation, value capture, and value preservation associated with stars’ complementarities and redundancies with other organizational resources. Finally, we propose several lines of inquiry through which future research may leverage the proposed typology to address issues related to the management of different types of stars in the broader organizational contexts in which they are embedded.
Spatial Stigma and Health in Postindustrial Detroit
Authors: Graham Louis F. , Padilla Mark B. , Lopez William D. , Stern Alexandra M. , Peterson Jerry , Keene Danya E.
Published: February 2016

An emerging body of research suggests that those who reside in socially and economically marginalized places may be marked by a stigma of place, referred to as spatial stigma, which influences their sense of self, their daily experiences, and their relations with outsiders. Researchers conducted 60 semistructured interviews at partnering community-based organizations during summer 2011 with African American and Latina/o, structurally disadvantaged youth of diverse gender and sexual identities who were between 18 and 26 years of age residing in Detroit, Michigan. The disadvantaged structural conditions and dilapidated built environment were common themes in participants’ narratives. Beyond these descriptions, participants’ framings and expressions of their experiences in and perceptions of these spaces alluded to reputational qualities of their city and particular areas of their city that appear related to spatial stigma. Young Detroit residents articulated the ways that they experience and navigate the symbolic degradation of their city.
Clinical efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with irinotecan (CPT-11) and nedaplatin followed by radical hysterectomy for locally advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Abou-Taleb Hisham A , Koshiyama Masafumi , Matsumura Noriomi , Baba Tsukasa , Yamaguchi Ken , Hamanishi Junzo , Abiko Kaoru , Yamanoi Koji , Murakami Ryusuke , Horikawa Naoki , Taha Ahmed AA , Kitamura Sachiko , Konishi Ikuo
Published: February 2016

Objective

To investigate the clinical efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) with irinotecan (CPT-11) and nedaplatin (NED) followed by radical hysterectomy.

Methods

Patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (stage Ib2–IIb) were treated with NAC followed by surgery, primary surgery or primary radiotherapy. NAC was usually performed using transuterine arterial chemotherapy (TUAC) or intravenous CPT-11/NED. Survival rates were analysed in the three treatment groups; response rates and adverse events associated with NAC, TUAC and CPT-11/NED were compared, along with previously reported adverse events of chemoradiotherapy.

Results

A total of 165 patients with cervical cancer were recruited. Of these, 70 were treated with NAC followed by surgery (48 with CPT-11/NED, 18 with TUAC and four with other types of chemotherapy), 73 were treated with primary surgery and 22 with primary radiotherapy (including chemoradiotherapy). There were no significant differences in progression-free survival or overall survival rates between the three treatment groups. The response rates for the NAC regimen of CPT-11/NED and TUAC were high (75% and 78%, respectively). The frequency of severe thrombocytopenia was lower in patients receiving CPT-11/NED compared with TUAC, and the incidence of severe anaemia, vomiting and cystitis was lower in patients receiving CPT-11/NED compared with chemoradiotherapy.

Conclusions

The use of CPT-11/NED as a NAC regimen shows favourable activity, with lower toxicity compared with NAC using TUAC or chemoradiotherapy, for the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer.
Protein microarray-mediated detection of antienterovirus antibodies in serum
Authors: Zhang Aiying , Xiu Bingshui , Zhang Heqiu , Li Ning
Published: February 2016

Objective

To utilize prokaryotic gene expression and protein microarray to develop and evaluate a sensitive, accurate protein microarray assay for detecting antienterovirus antibodies in serum samples from patients with hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). Enterovirus 71 (EV71) and coxsackievirus A16 (CA16), two common causative agents for HFMD, were used for assay development.

Methods

Serum was collected from patients with HFMD and healthy controls. EV71 and CA16 VP1 and VP3 genes were expressed in transfected Escherichia coli; the resultant VP1 and 3 proteins were used in a microarray assay for human serum EV71 and CA16 immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgG. To validate the microarray assay, serum samples were tested for EV71 IgM using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Out of 50 patients with HFMD, EV71 IgM and CA16 IgM was detected in 80% and 44% of serum samples, respectively, using protein microarray, and EV71 IgM was detected in 78% of samples using ELISA. Protein microarray and ELISA showed 100% specificity for EV71-IgM detection.

Conclusion

The protein microarray assay developed in the present study shows potential as a sensitive technique for detecting EV71 IgM in serum samples from patients with HFMD.
Predictors of academic performance and education programme satisfaction in occupational therapy students
Authors: Bonsaksen Tore
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Thriving and performing well in entry-level programmes is important to occupational therapy students, but also for the competitive status of the institutions providing their education. The literature is sparse concerning the factors of importance for occupational therapy students’ academic performance in, and satisfaction with, their education programme.

Method

This cross-sectional study explored sociodemographic, relationship, education and work-related variables and their associations with the students’ academic performance and satisfaction with the education programme. The data were analysed with multivariate linear regression.

Results

Participants were 123 students (mean age 24 years, 80% women) enrolled in an undergraduate occupational therapy programme in Norway. Having prior experience of higher education was associated with better academic performance, whereas having occupational therapy as the highest priority line of study at entry, and spending fewer hours on self-studies, were associated with lower satisfaction with the education programme.

Conclusion

To improve academic performance, occupational therapy educators are encouraged to help students learn about the tasks, requirements, standards and culture that constitute higher education. To improve satisfaction, it may be most efficient to target students who initially indicate the most interest in studying occupational therapy.
Outcomes After Arthroscopic Treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement for Patients With Borderline Hip Dysplasia
Authors: Nawabi Danyal H. , Degen Ryan M. , Fields Kara G. , McLawhorn Alexander , Ranawat Anil S. , Sink Ernest L. , Kelly Bryan T.
Published: February 2016

Background:

The outcomes of hip arthroscopy in the treatment of dysplasia are variable. Historically, arthroscopic treatment of severe dysplasia (lateral center-edge angle [LCEA] <18°) resulted in poor outcomes and iatrogenic instability. However, in milder forms of dysplasia, favorable outcomes have been reported.

Purpose:

To compare outcomes after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in borderline dysplastic (BD) patients compared with a control group of nondysplastic patients.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3

Methods:

Between March 2009 and July 2012, a BD group (LCEA, 18°-25°) of 46 patients (55 hips) was identified. An age- and sex-matched control group of 131 patients (152 hips) was also identified (LCEA, 25°-40°). Patient-reported outcome scores, including the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), the Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL) and Sport-Specific Subscale (HOS-SSS), and the International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-33), were collected preoperatively and at 1 and 2 years postoperatively.

Results:

The mean LCEA was 22.4° ± 2.0° (range, 18.4°-24.9°) in the BD group and 31.0° ± 3.1° (range, 25.4°-38.7°) in the control group ( P < .001). The mean preoperative alpha angle was 66.3° ± 9.9° in the BD group and 61.7° ± 13.0° in the control group ( P = .151). Cam decompression was performed in 98.2% and 99.3% of cases in the BD and control groups, respectively; labral repair was performed in 69.1% and 75.3% of the BD and control groups, respectively, with 100% of patients having a complete capsular closure performed in both groups. At a mean follow-up of 31.3 ± 7.6 months (range, 23.1-67.3 months) in unrevised patients and 21.6 ± 13.3 months (range, 4.7-40.6 months) in revised patients, there was significant improvement ( P < .001) in all patient-reported outcome scores in both groups. Multiple regression analysis did not identify any significant differences between groups. Importantly, female sex did not appear to be a predictor for inferior outcomes. Two patients (4.3%) in the BD group and 6 patients (4.6%) in the control group required revision arthroscopy during the study period.

Conclusion:

Favorable outcomes can be expected after the treatment of impingement in patients with borderline dysplasia when labral refixation and capsular closure are performed, with comparable outcomes to nondysplastic patients. Further follow-up in larger cohorts is necessary to prove the durability and safety of hip arthroscopy in this challenging group and to further explore potential sex-related differences in outcome.