bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) at uncommon locations: A large population based analysis
Authors: Kukar Moshim , Kapil Aditi , Papenfuss Wesley , Groman Adrienne , Grobmyer Stephen R. , Hochwald Steven N.
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Sparse information is available about GISTs in uncommon locations. Our large database analysis aims to determine the characteristics of GISTs in the esophagus, colon and rectum and compare to gastric GISTs.

Methods

The Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database was queried from 1990 to 2009 using CS SCHEMA v0203. Characteristics of each location were compared to gastric GISTs.

Results

4411 GIST (29 esophageal, 2658 stomach, 1463 small intestine, 126 colonic, and 135 rectal) from 1990 to 2009 were identified. Univariate and multivariate predictors of worse disease specific survival in both the entire cohort and surgical resection group include older age, male gender, tumor size > 5cm, no surgical intervention and anatomical location. Although less likely to undergo surgical resection, esophageal GIST (all patients and resected) had a comparable survival to gastric GIST. A higher proportion of colonic GISTs presented with distant disease and had a worse disease specific survival when compared to rectal GISTs.

Conclusion

Our results show a rising incidence in GISTs and highlight the characteristics of GISTs based on anatomical location. In addition, this is the first study to demonstrate that colonic GISTs behave differently when compared to rectal GISTs and warrants further prospective evaluation. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:696–701. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantitative assessment of the effect of cholesterol on blood glucose measurement using near infrared spectroscopy and a method for error reduction
Authors: Jiang Jingying , Zhang Kai , Qin Jia , Min Xiaolin , Zhang Lingling , Zou Da , Xu Kexin
Published: January 2015

Background and Objective

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the accurate measurement of blood glucose concentration can be perturbed by many factors. Current literature is limited in describing the influence of cholesterol on non‐invasive blood glucose measurements by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). This study aims to investigate the influence of cholesterol on blood glucose measurement through clinical oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and NIRS. Further, a method to reduce the prediction errors induced by cholesterol is proposed, facilitating the clinical application of non‐invasive blood glucose sensing by NIRS.

Study Design/Material and Methods

We obtained clinical data of glucose and cholesterol concentrations at specific time points (0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 3 h) during OGTTs from 115 subjects. The subjects were grouped into: Norm for normal control, IGT for Impaired Glucose Tolerance, and Diabetes. In addition, spectral data between 1200 and 1800 nm were collected from 130 phantom samples, which are separated into seven groups depending on glucose and cholesterol levels. Statistical methods including One Sample T‐test (OSTT), Pearson Correlation Analysis(PCA), and Unary Linear Regression (ULR) were used to analyze clinical data and spectral data to determine the relationship between glucose and cholesterol concentrations with the time course of OGTT. Reference wavelength‐based method (RWM) was introduced to diminish the influence of cholesterol on glucose measurement and further the prediction error induced by cholesterol was reduced when using partial least square (PLS) model.

Results

Clinical results statistically show that there is a strong negative correlation between the changes of glucose and cholesterol concentrations in the diabetes group. The spectra of cholesterol exhibit similar absorbance peaks to those of glucose within NIR range. PLS modelling results demonstrate that glucose prediction is influenced by cholesterol concentrations in a calibration model. Furthermore, a model expression ( R2 = 0.993) is fitted to quantitatively describe the glucose prediction increment () due to cholesterol concentration (). The results show that glucose prediction accuracy can be improved up to 38.36% by using RWM when using NIRS.

Conclusions

The cholesterol has an effect on blood glucose sensing. RWM is useful to help realize non‐invasive blood glucose sensing by NIRS. Lasers Surg. Med. 47:88–97, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Directed Interactions of Block Copolypept(o)ides with Mannose‐binding Receptors: PeptoMicelles Targeted to Cells of the Innate Immune System
Authors: Heller Philipp , Mohr Nicole , Birke Alexander , Weber Benjamin , Reske‐Kunz Angelika , Bros Matthias , Barz Matthias
Published: January 2015

Core‐shell structures based on polypept(o)ides combine stealth‐like properties of the corona material polysarcosine with adjustable functionalities of the polypeptidic core. Mannose‐bearing block copolypept(o)ides (PSar‐block‐PGlu(OBn)) have been synthesized using 11‐amino‐3,6,9‐trioxa‐undecyl‐2,3,4,6‐tetra‐O‐acetyl‐O‐α‐D‐mannopyranoside as initiator in the sequential ring‐opening polymerization of α‐amino acid N‐carboxyanhydrides. These amphiphilic block copolypept(o)ides self‐assemble into multivalent PeptoMicelles and bind to mannose‐binding receptors as expressed by dendritic cells. Mannosylated micelles showed enhanced cell uptake in DC 2.4 cells and in bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and therefore appear to be a suitable platform for immune modulation.
Cocoa‐rich diet attenuates beta cell mass loss and function in young Zucker diabetic fatty rats by preventing oxidative stress and beta cell apoptosis
Authors: Fernández‐Millán Elisa , Cordero‐Herrera Isabel , Ramos Sonia , Escrivá Fernando , Alvarez Carmen , Goya Luis , Martín María Angeles
Published: January 2015

We have recently shown that cocoa flavanols may have anti‐diabetic potential by promoting survival and function of pancreatic beta‐cells in vitro. In this work, we investigated if a cocoa‐rich diet is able to preserve beta‐cell mass and function in an animal model of type 2 diabetes and the mechanisms involved. Our results showed that cocoa feeding during the prediabetic state attenuates hyperglycaemia, reduces insulin resistant, and increases beta cell mass and function in obese Zucker diabetic rats. At the molecular level, cocoa‐rich diet prevented beta‐cell apoptosis by increasing the levels of Bcl‐xL and decreasing Bax levels and caspase‐3 activity. Cocoa diet enhanced the activity of endogenous antioxidant defenses, mainly glutathione peroxidase, preventing thus oxidative injury induced by the pre‐diabetic condition and leading to apoptosis prevention. These findings provide the first in vivo evidence that a cocoa‐rich diet may delay the loss of functional beta‐cell mass and delay the progression of diabetes by preventing oxidative stress and beta‐cell apoptosis.
Sauber recycliert
Authors: Langhals Heinz
Published: January 2015

Ein Problem beim Kunststoffrecycling ist die sortenreine Erkennung der geschredderten Flakes. Fluoreszenzspektroskopische Methoden können helfen.
Geräte made in China
Authors: Ehrensberger Christian
Published: January 2015

Auf der Analytica ging eine ganze Reihe chinesischer Anbieter von Analysengeräten an den Start. Sind sie eine ernsthafte Konkurrenz für etablierte Hersteller? Die Eindrücke in hiesigen Laboratorien, bei Branchengrößen und den Neuankömmlingen selbst sind gemischt.
Lernorte: Garten, Stausee, Bergwerksstollen
Authors: Spitzer Philipp , Krischer Daniela , Gröger Martin
Published: January 2015

Chemie und Natur sind stärker verwoben, als den meisten Menschen bewusst ist. Ein Freilandlabor, ein mobiles Umweltlabor und weitere Projekte der Arbeitsgruppe Didaktik der Chemie an der Universität Siegen machen diesen Zusammenhang im Chemieunterricht erlebbar.
Otto von Guerickes Windbüchse
Authors: Vollmer Michael , Möllmann Klaus‐Peter
Published: January 2015

Im Jahre 1672 beschrieb Otto von Guericke eine Vorrichtung, um Geschosse durch die Druckdifferenz zwischen Luftdruck und zuvor erzeugtem Vakuum zu beschleunigen. Das Grundprinzip dieser Windbüchse entspricht dem moderner Luftgewehre. An einem Nachbau konnten wir mit Hilfe von Hochgeschwindigkeits‐Videos deren Wirkung untersuchen.
Der Shifter
Authors: Loos Andreas
Published: January 2015

Als gebürtiger Kalifornier unternimmt der gesuchte Physiker gerne Spaziergänge am Meer. Doch damit ist es vorbei, als er eine deutsche Exilantin heiratet: Die Behörden fürchten, dass er Kontakt mit deutschen U‐Booten aufnehmen könnte. Dass seine Gattin, eine studierte Kunsthistorikerin, soeben vor den Nazis geflohen ist und ihr Ehemann ihre politischen Ansichten teilt, interessiert die Behörden nicht. Stattdessen nehmen sie dem Physiker auch noch sein Kurzwellenradio weg.
Al dente – die Physikerdefinition
Authors: Vilgis Thomas
Published: January 2015

Pasta wird al dente serviert. Beim Einhalten der angegebenen Kochzeit bleibt der Kern der Nudel hart, Physiker sagen: Er bleibt im Glaszustand. Dieser wirksame Textureffekt macht einen Großteil des Genusses aus. Bei selbst gemachter Pasta funktioniert das übrigens nicht.
Auf der Jagd nach Quantentornados
Authors: Rolles Daniel , Erk Benjamin , Boll Rebecca
Published: January 2015

Die hochintensiven und ultrakurzen Lichtpulse moderner Röntgenlaser erlauben es, chemische Reaktionen auf molekularer Ebene zu filmen und Beugungsbilder von Nanokristallen oder einzelnen Viren aufzunehmen, mit denen sich deren Struktur entschlüsseln lässt. Auf diese Weise ist es einer internationalen Gruppe unter Beteiligung des DESY gelungen, Schnappschüsse von Quantenstrudeln in winzigen Tröpfchen suprafluiden Heliums aufzunehmen.
Structural insight into equine lentivirus receptor 1
Authors: Qian Lei , Han Xiaodong , Liu Xinqi
Published: January 2015

Equine lentivirus receptor 1 (ELR1) has been identified as a functional cellular receptor for equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV). Herein, recombinant ELR1 and EIAV surface glycoprotein gp90 were respectively expressed in Drosophila melanogaster S2 cells, and purified to homogeneity by Ni‐NTA affinity chromatography and gel filtration chromatography. Gel filtration chromatography and analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) analyses indicated that both ELR1 and gp90 existed as individual monomers in solution and formed a complex with a stoichiometry of 1:1 when mixed. The structure of ELR1 was first determined with the molecular replacement method, which belongs to the space group P42212 with one molecule in an asymmetric unit. It contains eight antiparallel β‐sheets, of which four are in cysteine rich domain 1 (CRD1) and two are in CRD2 and CRD3, respectively. Alignment of ELR1 with HVEM and CD134 indicated that Tyr61, Leu70, and Gly72 in CRD1 of ELR1 are important residues for binding to gp90. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) experiments further confirmed that Leu70 and Gly72 are the critical residues.
The enzymatic nature of an anonymous protein sequence cannot reliably be inferred from superfamily level structural information alone
Authors: Roche Daniel Barry , Brüls Thomas
Published: January 2015

As the largest fraction of any proteome does not carry out enzymatic functions, and in order to leverage 3D structural data for the annotation of increasingly higher volumes of sequence data, we wanted to assess the strength of the link between coarse grained structural data (i.e., homologous superfamily level) and the enzymatic versus non‐enzymatic nature of protein sequences. To probe this relationship, we took advantage of 41 phylogenetically diverse (encompassing 11 distinct phyla) genomes recently sequenced within the GEBA initiative, for which we integrated structural information, as defined by CATH, with enzyme level information, as defined by Enzyme Commission (EC) numbers. This analysis revealed that only a very small fraction (about 1%) of domain sequences occurring in the analyzed genomes was found to be associated with homologous superfamilies strongly indicative of enzymatic function. Resorting to less stringent criteria to define enzyme versus non‐enzyme biased structural classes or excluding highly prevalent folds from the analysis had only modest effect on this proportion. Thus, the low genomic coverage by structurally anchored protein domains strongly associated to catalytic activities indicates that, on its own, the power of coarse grained structural information to infer the general property of being an enzyme is rather limited.
Bioequivalence of Sandoz methylphenidate osmotic‐controlled release tablet with Concerta® (Janssen‐Cilag)
Authors: Schapperer Elisabeth , Daumann Heike , Lamouche Stéphane , Thyroff‐Friesinger Ursula , Viel François , Weitschies Werner
Published: January 2015

The aim was to assess the bioequivalence of Sandoz methylphenidate osmotic‐controlled release (OCR) tablets (Sandoz [Methylphenidate] MPH OCR) with Concerta®, a methylphenidate formulation indicated for the treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Four open‐label, randomized, single‐dose, two‐way crossover bioequivalence studies were conducted in healthy subjects: three fasting studies with 54‐, 36‐ and 18‐mg doses of methylphenidate, and one fed study with the 54‐mg dose. The d‐ and l‐threo‐methylphenidate plasma levels were quantified using liquid chromatographic methods with tandem mass spectrometry (LC MS/MS). Bioequivalence of the formulations was accepted if the 90% geometric confidence intervals of the ratio of least‐squares means of Sandoz MPH OCR to Concerta® of ln‐transformed area under the curve (AUC0–t) and Cmax were within the acceptance range of 80–125%. All studies met the bioequivalence criteria, and 90% geometric confidence intervals for AUC0–t and Cmax were within the predefined range. All plasma concentration time curves for Sandoz MPH OCR under fasting conditions showed a biphasic profile comparable with Concerta®, confirmed by bioequivalence of the partial metrics AUC0–2h, AUC2‐24 h, Cmax(0–2 h) and Cmax(2–24 h). Both products were well tolerated and no relevant differences in the safety profiles were observed. It was concluded that Sandoz MPH OCR is bioequivalent to Concerta® in terms of rate and extent of absorption when administered as a single dose of one extended‐release tablet of 54, 36, or 18 mg under fasting conditions and at a dose of 54 mg under fed conditions.
Maintaining and Strengthening a Shaky Regime with Mnemonic Work: Inventing a Chinese National Day from 1949 Through 1987 in Taiwan
Authors: Yeh Hsin‐Yi
Published: January 2015

This paper investigates the invention of a Chinese National Day from 1949 through 1987 in Taiwan to illuminate the significance of mnemonic work in nation‐building. The 1949 Retreat after the Chinese Civil War resulted in a serious legitimacy crisis for the government of the Republic of China; thus, (re)inventing the National Day became an important mission to maintain and even strengthen this shaky regime. While the role of the standardized commemorative narrative in influencing people's collective memory is granted, this article emphasizes the aspect of embodied memory in nation‐remembering. I point out that the official Chinese nationalism constructed its National Day as “inevitably” bustling, memorialized, accepted, heroic, familial‐ized, blessed, and pivotal‐ized to shape the impression of a sacred and memorable day. This paper—while essentially consistent with Billig's argument of banal nationalism—suggests that national identity is accumulated by many symbolically encoded elements found in daily life; it goes further to argue that banal nationalism needs the “hot” nationalism found in special occasions to encode, refresh, and redefine the symbolic meaning of entities. That is, the oscillations between sacred and profane are needed to guarantee that patriotic emotions can be continually created and maintained.
Sociology and Art: An Interview with Howard S. Becker
Authors: Lu Wenchao
Published: January 2015

This is an interview with Howard S. Becker, and the focus is sociology and art. In this interview, Howard S. Becker talked about many interesting and important topics such as his sociological lineage, his difference with the estheticians Arthur Danto and George Dickie, traditional sociologist of art such as Lukacs and Goldmann, his Tactile Art Group, the universality of his art worlds, Richard A. Peterson and his production of culture perspective, the sociology of “sociology of art” in America, French sociologists of art, and his own art life, and so on.
The Impact of Type of Mesh Repair on 2nd Recurrence After Recurrent Groin Hernia Surgery
Authors: Sevonius D. , Sandblom G. , Agger E. , Smedberg S. , Montgomery A.
Published: January 2015

Background

According to the Swedish Hernia Register (SHR), the reoperation rate is more than doubled after recurrent groin hernia repair compared with primary repair. The aim was to study the impact of type of mesh repair used in recurrent groin hernia surgery on a 2nd recurrence in a population‐based cohort derived from the SHR.

Material and method

All 1st recurrent hernia repairs in the south‐west region of Sweden, registered in SHR between 1998 up to 2007 were included. A questionnaire was sent in 2009. Patients stating a new lump or persisting problems were examined. A 2nd recurrence was identified as a 2nd reoperation or at physical examination. The incidence was analysed comparing anterior mesh repair (AMR) and posterior mesh repairs (PMR) (endoscopic and open).

Results

Eight hundred and fifteen recurrent operations in 767 patents were analysed, 401 AMRs and 414 PMRs. PMR had a lower 2nd recurrence rate compared with AMR (5.6 vs. 11.0 %) (p = 0.025). An increased risk [3.21 (CI 1.33–7.44) (p = 0.009)] of a subsequent 2nd recurrence was seen after anterior index repair followed by AMR and a decreased risk [0.08 (CI 0.01–0.94) (p = 0.045)] after posterior index repair followed by AMR.

Conclusion

PMR in recurrent groin hernia surgery was associated with a lower 2nd recurrence rate compared to anterior. A posterior approach for 1st recurrent operation is recommended after an anterior index repair and an anterior approach after a posterior index operation.
The Relationship Between Total Arterial Revascularization and Blood Transfusion Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Djordjevic Jasmina , Ngaage Dumbor L.
Published: January 2015

Background

Blood transfusion adversely affects the outcome of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), yet blood transfusion after CABG is still common. Total arterial revascularisation (TAR) is increasingly used in current practice but its impact on postoperative blood transfusion is not known.

Methods

We reviewed the cardiothoracic and blood bank databases and collected data for isolated primary CABG patients from July 2007 to June 2012, excluding patients who had a single graft (n = 148). Perioperative variables of TAR patients (n = 745) were compared with patients who had one or more venous grafts (SVG, n = 1,761) for first‐time isolated CABG. The conduits used in TAR patients were predominantly left internal thoracic and radial arteries. Matched group comparison of TAR and SVG patients was performed. The association of TAR with blood transfusion was investigated using multivariate and matched analysis.

Results

Of 2,506 patients, the 745 (29.7 %) that had TAR were generally younger, with less complex coronary artery disease and less often diabetic. After correcting for these by 1:1 matching, the mean chest tube drainage and rates of blood transfusion remained significantly lower (p <. 0001) in TAR patients. Indeed, red cells, platelets and fresh frozen plasma were significantly less frequently transfused in TAR patients. By multivariate analysis, TAR had an independent effect on reducing blood transfusion after CABG [odds ratio (OR) 0.67, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.47–0.97, p =. 03].

Conclusions

TAR achieved predominantly with left internal thoracic and radial arteries substantially reduced blood transfusion rates after primary CABG. Further studies are warranted.
Chemotherapy in vivo against M109 murine lung carcinoma with cytochalasin B by localized, systemic, and liposomal administration
Authors: Trendowski Matthew , Mitchell Joan M. , Corsette Christine M. , Acquafondata Christopher , Fondy Thomas P.
Published: January 2015

Cytochalasin B is a potentially novel microfilament-directed chemotherapeutic agent that prevents actin polymerization, thereby inhibiting cytokinesis. Although cytochalasin B has been extensively studied in vitro, only limited data are available to assess its in vivo potential. Cytochalasin B was administered to Balb/c mice challenged i.d. with M109 murine lung carcinoma to determine whether the agent could affect an established i.d. tumor when the compound is administered s.c. in the region of the i.d. tumor, but not in direct contact with it. Cytochalasin B was also administered either i.p. or s.c. at a distant site or i.v. to determine whether it could affect the long-term development of an established i.d. tumor. Cytochalasin B was then liposome encapsulated to determine whether the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of the compound could be increased, while reducing immunosuppression that we have previously characterized. Liposomal cytochalasin B was also administered to mice challenged i.d. with M109 lung carcinoma to assess its chemotherapeutic efficacy. The results can be summarized as follows: 1) cytochalasin B substantially delayed the growth of i.d. M109 tumor nodules, inhibited metastatic progression in surrounding tissues, and produced long-term cures in treated mice; 2) liposomal cytochalasin B increased the i.p. MTD by more than 3-fold, produced a different distribution in tissue concentrations, and displayed antitumor effects against M109 lung carcinoma similar to non-encapsulated cytochalasin B. These data show that cytochalasin B exploits unique chemotherapeutic mechanisms and is an effective antineoplastic agent in vivo in pre-clinical models, either in bolus form or after liposome encapsulation.
An improved method for evaluating the rotational speed stability of a hydro-viscous clutch in mixed lubrication
Authors: Yao Shou-Wen , Liu Qian , Cui Hong-Wei , Feng Shan-Shan
Published: January 2015

Rotational speed stability is an important evaluation indicator of the performance of a hydro-viscous clutch (HVC). To improve the rotational speed stability of HVCs in mixed lubrication and the running condition of the friction pairs, the speed stability of an HVC in mixed lubrication was studied. To this end, the friction coefficients of both copper-based and paper-based friction pairs were experimentally tested using an MM1000-III wet friction machine. Theoretically, a torsional vibration model of the system is presented. The phase plane analysis method is applied to evaluate the stability of the torsional vibration model, where a critical negative gradient (CNG) is defined. The results show that the friction coefficient in mixed lubrication is an important parameter for the stability of the rotational speed. The system will be unstable when the negative gradient of the friction coefficient-slip speed is larger than the CNG. According to the definition of the CNG, suggestions regarding choice of friction pairs are made to improve the rotational speed stability of an HVC in mixed lubrication.
Expanding the notion of addressing relations
Authors: Gouws Rufus
Published: January 2015

This paper offers a discussion of various aspects of the notion of addressing and addressing relations in dictionaries. Reference is made to the way in which these terms are defined and used in metalexicographic literature. It is shown how the metalexicographer Herbert Ernst Wiegand has introduced these terms and how he uses them in his meticulously designed general theory of lexicography. Maintaining the approach and interpretations used by Wiegand, it is emphasised that the notion of addressing could also be used in an expanded way to include more than only items as addressed entries and to accommodate non-condensed entries as participants in addressing relations. Using examples from existing dictionaries, the use of pictorial illustrations and article boxes to convey data directed at lemmatic and non-lemmatic entries is discussed to show their participation in lexicographic relations where a form and information related to that form are brought together. Some aspects of treatment relations in online dictionaries are identified to illustrate the need for a more comprehensive interpretation of addressing relations. Finally, suggestions are made for a distinction between different types of addressing.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Nasal Real-Time PCR: A Predictive Tool for Contamination of the Hospital Environment
Authors: Livorsi Daniel J. , Arif Sana , Garry Patricia , Kundu Madan G. , Satola Sarah W. , Davis Thomas H. , Batteiger Byron , Kressel Amy B.
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine whether the bacterial burden in the nares, as determined by the cycle threshold (CT) value from real-time MRSA PCR, is predictive of environmental contamination with MRSA.

METHODS

Patients identified as MRSA nasal carriers per hospital protocol were enrolled within 72 hours of room admission. Patients were excluded if (1) nasal mupirocin or chlorhexidine body wash was used within the past month or (2) an active MRSA infection was suspected. Four environmental sites, 6 body sites and a wound, if present, were cultured with premoistened swabs. All nasal swabs were submitted for both a quantitative culture and real-time PCR (Roche Lightcycler, Indianapolis, IN).

RESULTS

At study enrollment, 82 patients had a positive MRSA-PCR. A negative correlation of moderate strength was observed between the CT value and the number of MRSA colonies in the nares (r=−0.61; P<0.01). Current antibiotic use was associated with lower levels of MRSA nasal colonization (CT value, 30.2 vs 27.7; P<0.01). Patients with concomitant environmental contamination had a higher median log MRSA nares count (3.9 vs 2.5, P=0.01) and lower CT values (28.0 vs 30.2; P<0.01). However, a ROC curve was unable to identify a threshold MRSA nares count that reliably excluded environmental contamination.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a higher burden of MRSA in their nares, based on the CT value, were more likely to contaminate their environment with MRSA. However, contamination of the environment cannot be predicted solely by the degree of MRSA nasal colonization.
Infection Control Preparedness for Human Infection With Influenza A H7N9 in Hong Kong
Authors: Cheng Vincent C. C. , Tai Josepha W. M. , Lee W. M. , Chan W. M. , Wong Sally C. Y. , Chen Jonathan H. K. , Poon Rosana W. S. , To Kelvin K. W. , Chan Jasper F. W. , Ho P. L. , Chan K. H. , Yuen K. Y.
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness of infection control preparedness for human infection with influenza A H7N9 in Hong Kong.

DESIGN

A descriptive study of responses to the emergence of influenza A H7N9.

SETTING

A university-affiliated teaching hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Healthcare workers (HCWs) with unprotected exposure (not wearing N95 respirator during aerosol-generating procedure) to a patient with influenza A H7N9.

METHODS

A bundle approach including active and enhanced surveillance, early airborne infection isolation, rapid molecular diagnostic testing, and extensive contact tracing for HCWs with unprotected exposure was implemented. Seventy HCWs with unprotected exposure to an index case were interviewed especially regarding their patient care activities.

RESULTS

From April 1, 2013, through May 31, 2014, a total of 126 (0.08%) of 163,456 admitted patients were tested for the H7 gene by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction per protocol. Two confirmed cases were identified. Seventy (53.8%) of 130 HCWs had unprotected exposure to an index case, whereas 41 (58.6%) and 58 (82.9%) of 70 HCWs wore surgical masks and practiced hand hygiene after patient care, respectively. Sixteen (22.9%) of 70 HCWs were involved in high-risk patient contacts. More HCWs with high-risk patient contacts received oseltamivir prophylaxis (P=0.088) and significantly more had paired sera collected for H7 antibody testing (P<0.001). Ten (14.3%) of 70 HCWs developed influenza-like illness during medical surveillance, but none had positive results by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Paired sera was available from 33 of 70 HCWs with unprotected exposure, and none showed seroconversion against H7N9.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the delay in airborne precautions implementation, no patient-to-HCW transmission of influenza A H7N9 was demonstrated.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2015;36(1): 87–92
Frequency, Risk Factors, and Outcomes of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus Colonization and Infection in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Acute Leukemia: Different Patterns in Patients with Acute Myelogenous and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Ford Clyde D. , Lopansri Bert K. , Haydoura Souha , Snow Greg , Dascomb Kristin K. , Asch Julie , Bo Petersen Finn , Burke John P.
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency, risk factors, and outcomes for vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) colonization and infection in patients with newly diagnosed acute leukemia.

DESIGN

Retrospective clinical study with VRE molecular strain typing.

SETTING

A regional referral center for acute leukemia.

PATIENTS

Two hundred fourteen consecutive patients with newly diagnosed acute leukemia between 2006 and 2012.

METHODS

All patients had a culture of first stool and weekly surveillance for VRE. Clinical data were abstracted from the Intermountain Healthcare electronic data warehouse. VRE molecular typing was performed utilizing the semi-automated DiversiLab System.

RESULTS

The rate of VRE colonization was directly proportional to length of stay and was higher in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Risk factors associated with colonization include administration of corticosteroids (P=0.004) and carbapenems (P=0.009). Neither a colonized prior room occupant nor an increased unit colonization pressure affected colonization risk. Colonized patients with acute myelogenous leukemia had an increased risk of VRE bloodstream infection (BSI, P=0.002). Other risk factors for VRE BSI include severe neutropenia (P=0.04) and diarrhea (P=0.008). Fifty-eight percent of BSI isolates were identical or related by molecular typing. Eighty-nine percent of bloodstream isolates were identical or related to stool isolates identified by surveillance cultures. VRE BSI was associated with increased costs (P=0.0003) and possibly mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

VRE colonization has important consequences for patients with acute myelogenous leukemia undergoing induction therapy. For febrile neutropenic patients with acute myelogenous leukemia, use of empirical antibiotic regimens that avoid carbapenems and include VRE coverage may be helpful in decreasing the risks associated with VRE BSI.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2015;36(1): 47–53
Screening for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Colonization Using Sponges
Authors: Lee Chang-Seop , Montalmont Bianca , O’Hara Jessica A. , Syed Alveena , Chaussard Charma , McGaha Traci L. , Pakstis Diana L. , Lee Ju-Hyung , Shutt Kathleen A. , Doi Yohei
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

Nasal swab culture is the standard method for identifying methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriers. However, this method is known to miss a substantial portion of those carrying MRSA elsewhere. We hypothesized that the additional use of a sponge to collect skin culture samples would significantly improve the sensitivity of MRSA detection.

DESIGN

Hospitalized patients with recent MRSA infection were enrolled and underwent MRSA screening of the forehead, nostrils, pharynx, axilla, and groin with separate swabs and the forehead, axilla, and groin with separate sponges. Staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) typing was conducted by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

PATIENTS

A total of 105 MRSA patients were included in the study.

RESULTS

At least 1 specimen from 56.2% of the patients grew MRSA. Among patients with at least 1 positive specimen, the detection sensitivities were 79.7% for the swabs and 64.4% for the sponges. Notably, 86.4% were detected by a combination of sponges and nasal swab, and 72.9% were detected by a combination of pharyngeal and nasal swabs, whereas only 50.9% were detected by nasal swab alone (P<0.0001 and P=0.0003, respectively). Most isolates had SCCmec type II (59.9%) and IV (35.7%). No correlation was observed between the SCCmec types and collection sites.

CONCLUSION

Screening using a sponge significantly improves MRSA detection when used in addition to screening with the standard nasal swab.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2014;36(1): 28–33
Extensive Dissemination of Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase–Producing Enterobacteriaceae in a Dutch Nursing Home
Authors: Willemsen Ina , Nelson Jolande , Hendriks Yvonne , Mulders Ans , Verhoeff Sandrien , Mulder Paul , Roosendaal Robert , van der Zwaluw Kim , Verhulst Carlo , Kluytmans-van den Bergh Marjolein , Kluytmans Jan
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

Risk factors for rectal carriage of ESBL-E and transmission were investigated in an outbreak of extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E).

DESIGN

Rectal carriage of ESBL-E was determined in a cross-sectional survey by culture of perianal swabs or fecal samples. Both phenotypical and genotypical methods were used to detect the production of ESBL. Nosocomial transmission was defined as the presence of genotypically related strains in ≥2 residents within the NH. Patient characteristics and variables in infection control practices were registered to investigate risk factors for transmission.

SETTING

A nursing home (NH) in the southern Netherlands.

PARTICIPANTS

Of 189 residents, 160 residents (84.7%) were screened for ESBL-E carriage. Of these 160 residents, 33 (20.6%) were ESBL-E positive. ESBL carriage rates varied substantially between wards (range, 0–47%). Four different ESBL-E clusters were observed. AblaCTX-M1-15positiveE. coliST131 constituted the largest cluster (n=21) and was found in multiple wards (n=7).

RESULTS

Our investigation revealed extensive clonal dissemination ofblaCTX-M1-15-positiveE. coliST131 in a nursing home. Unexplained differences in ESBL prevalence were detected among the wards.

CONCLUSIONS

As NHs constitute potential sources of multidrug-resistant bacteria, it is important to gain a better understanding of the risks factors and routes of transmission of ESBL-E.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2014;00(0): 1–7
Influence of Staff Behavior on Infectious Risk in Operating Rooms: What Is the Evidence?
Authors: Birgand Gabriel , Saliou Philippe , Lucet Jean-Christophe
Published: January 2015

A systematic literature review was performed to assess the impact of surgical-staff behaviors on the risk of surgical site infections. Published data are limited, heterogeneous, and weakened by several methodological flaws, underlying the need for more studies with accurate tools.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the current literature regarding the impact of surgical-staff behaviors on the risk of surgical-site infection (SSI).

DESIGN

Systematic literature review.

METHODS

We searched the Medline, EMBASE, Ovid, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases for original articles about the impact of intraoperative behaviors on the risk of SSI published in English before September 2013.

RESULTS

We retrieved 27 original articles reporting data on number of people in the operating room (n=14), door openings (n=14; number [n=6], frequency [n=7], reasons [n=4], or duration [n=3]), surgical-team discipline (evidence of distraction; n=4), compliance with traffic measures (n=6), or simulated behaviors (n=3). Most (59%) articles were published in 2009–2013. End points were the 30-day SSI rate (n=8), air-particle count (n=2), or microbiological air counts (n=6); 11 studies were only descriptive. Number of people in the operating room and SSI rate or airborne contaminants (particle/bacteria) were correlated in 2 studies. Door openings and airborne bacteria counts were correlated in 2 observational studies and 1 experimental study. Two cohort studies showed a significant association between surgeon interruptions/distraction or noise and SSI rate. The level of evidence was low in all studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Published data about the impact of operating-room behaviors on the risk of infection are limited and heterogeneous. All studies exhibit major methodological flaws. More studies with accurate tools should be performed to address the influence of operating room behaviors on the infectious risk.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2015;36(1): 93–106
A pilot music group for young people attending a community Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service
Authors: McDonald J. , Codrea A. , Gavin B.
Published: January 2015

Objective

There is a strong and growing body of evidence supporting the mental health benefits of music. With regard to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) there is a need for creative, child friendly approaches to improve rapport and promote engagement. This study was established as an exploratory pilot project to assess the feasibility of a running a music group within a CAMHS setting as well as any potential benefit to the mental health of a group of diagnostically heterogeneous young people attending the service.

Methods

Five young people attending the out-patient clinic participated in a weekly music group over the course of 2 months. Feedback was obtained using a study specific questionnaire as well as baseline and follow-up Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaires.

Results

The music group was described as an enjoyable experience in the clinic setting and young people identified benefits with regard to mood, self-confidence and social skills. Attendance at appointments within the clinic was good for the duration of the group, suggesting a benefit in encouraging engagement.

Conclusions

A music group is a welcome intervention in a CAMHS setting with potential positive benefits for both the service and service users. Further work is needed to establish specific mental health benefits of music-based interventions in young people with mental health difficulties.
Direct numerical simulation of a turbulent jet impinging on a heated wall
Authors: Dairay T. , Fortuné V. , Lamballais E. , Brizzi L.-E.
Published: January 2015

Direct numerical simulation (DNS) of an impinging jet flow with a nozzle-to-plate distance of two jet diameters and a Reynolds number of 10 000 is carried out at high spatial resolution using high-order numerical methods. The flow configuration is designed to enable the development of a fully turbulent regime with the appearance of a well-marked secondary maximum in the radial distribution of the mean heat transfer. The velocity and temperature statistics are validated with documented experiments. The DNS database is then analysed focusing on the role of unsteady processes to explain the spatial distribution of the heat transfer coefficient at the wall. A phenomenological scenario is proposed on the basis of instantaneous flow visualisations in order to explain the non-monotonic radial evolution of the Nusselt number in the stagnation region. This scenario is then assessed by analysing the wall temperature and the wall shear stress distributions and also through the use of conditional averaging of velocity and temperature fields. On one hand, the heat transfer is primarily driven by the large-scale toroidal primary and secondary vortices emitted periodically. On the other hand, these vortices are subjected to azimuthal distortions associated with the production of radially elongated structures at small scale. These distortions are responsible for the appearance of very high heat transfer zones organised as cold fluid spots on the heated wall. These cold spots are shaped by the radial structures through a filament propagation of the heat transfer. The analysis of probability density functions shows that these strong events are highly intermittent in time and space while contributing essentially to the secondary peak observed in the radial evolution of the Nusselt number.
Endocentric and exocentric verb typology: Talmy revisited – on good grounds
Authors: KORZEN IØRN
Published: January 2015

abstract

This paper presents the so-calledEndo-andExocentric Verb Typologyadvanced by the Danish research group TYPOlex. The typology is partly based on Talmy’s lexicalization patterns for motion verbs with some elaboration and refinement of themanner–pathdistinction, and it is generalized to comprise Germanic and Romance verbs (and nouns) as a whole. The Danish findings point to a relatively high lexical precision and concreteness in Germanic verbs (and Romance nouns) and a relatively high lexical abstractness and genericity in Romance verbs (and Germanic nouns). Furthermore, the paper investigates Talmy’s two semantic componentsgroundandfigureand argues that they are far more generalized in Romance (secondary) lexicalization patterns–parasynthetic derivation–than normally assumed.
A Sign-Changing Solution for an Asymptotically Linear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Maia Liliane A. , Miyagaki Olimpio H. , Soares Sergio H. M.
Published: January 2015

The aim of this paper is to present a sign-changing solution for a class of radially symmetric asymptotically linear Schrödinger equations. The proof is variational and the Ekeland variational principle is employed as well as a deformation lemma combined with Miranda’s theorem.
Live capture and ownership of lemurs in Madagascar: extent and conservation implications
Authors: Reuter Kim E. , Gilles Haley , Wills Abigail R. , Sewall Brent J.
Published: January 2015

Overexploitation is a significant threat to biodiversity, with live capture of millions of animals annually. An improved understanding of live capture of primates is needed, especially for Madagascar's threatened lemurs. Our objectives were to provide the first quantitative estimates of the prevalence, spatial extent, correlates and timing of lemur ownership, procurement methods, within-country movements, and numbers and duration of ownership. Using semi-structured interviews of 1,093 households and 61 transporters, across 17 study sites, we found that lemur ownership was widespread and affected a variety of taxa. We estimate that 28,253 lemurs have been affected since 2010. Most lemurs were caught by owners and kept for either short (≤ 1 week) or long (≥ 3 years) periods. The live capture of lemurs in Madagascar is not highly organized but may threaten several Endangered and Critically Endangered species.
Language learner perspectives on the functionality and use of electronic language dictionaries
Authors: Levy Mike , Steel Caroline
Published: January 2015

This paper investigates the extent of electronic dictionary use by language learners in an Australian university. All students in the study are formally enrolled in language courses across ten languages at first, second or third year level. The study places a particular emphasis on gauging student perceptions of the beneficial aspects of electronic dictionaries as judged by learners themselves in circumstances where they are able to act independently. As these benefits are often described in terms of usability and functionality, these particular terms are defined and introduced in the literature review, and then later they are employed to help structure and describe the results.

The arguments for the discussion are supported by the use of empirical data taken from a large-scale survey conducted in 2011 (n=587) where comments from students were obtained on why and how dictionary-type resources were accessed and used (see also Steel & Levy, 2013). The paper restricts itself to the quantitative and qualitative data gathered on mobile phones, translators, dictionaries and web conjugators and related items (e.g. discussion forums). The particular functions that students use and the ways in which they use them are described and categorised, with the discussion supported by student comments.

The data exhibits a remarkable range of resources available to students to look up unknown words or to see translations and, consequently, our understanding of what exactly an electronic dictionary might comprise is challenged. Many students’ comments demonstrate a sophistication and knowledge about the effective use of these dictionary tools together with a keen awareness of their limitations.
New clues on the interior of Titan from its rotation state
Authors: Noyelles Benoît , Nimmo Francis
Published: January 2015

The Saturnian satellite Titan is one of the main targets of the Cassini-Huygens mission, which revealed in particular Titan's shape, gravity field, and rotation state. The shape and gravity field suggest that Titan is not in hydrostatic equilibrium, that it has a global subsurface ocean, and that its ice shell is both rigid (at tidal periods) and of variable thickness. The rotational state of Titan consists of an expected synchronous rotation rate and an unexpectedly high obliquity (0.3○) explained by Baland et al. (2011) to be a resonant behavior. We here combine a realistic model of the ice shell and interior and a 6-degrees of freedom rotational model, in which the librations, obliquity and polar motion of the rigid core and of the shell are modelled, to constrain the structure of Titan from the observations. We consider the gravitational pull of Saturn on the 2 rigid layers, the gravitational coupling between them, and the pressure coupling at the liquid-solid interfaces.

We confirm the influence of the resonance found by Baland et al., that affects between 10 and 13% of the possible Titans. It is due to the 29.5-year periodic annual forcing. The resonant Titans can be obtained in situations in which a mass anomaly at the shell-ocean boundary (bottom loading) is from 80 to 92% compensated. This suggests a 250 to 280 km thick ocean below a 130 to 140 km thick shell, and is consistent with the degree-3 analysis of Hemingway 26 et al. (2013).
Scaling laws to understand tidal dissipation in fluid planetary layers and stars
Authors: Auclair-Desrotour Pierre , Mathis Stéphane , Le Poncin-Lafitte Christophe
Published: January 2015

Tidal dissipation is known as one of the main drivers of the secular evolution of planetary systems. It directly results from dissipative mechanisms that occur in planets and stars' interiors and strongly depends on the structure and dynamics of the bodies. This work focuses on the mechanism of viscous friction in stars and planetary layers. A local model is used to study tidal dissipation. It provides general scaling laws that give a qualitative overview of the different possible behaviors of fluid tidal waves. Furthermore, it highlights the sensitivity of dissipation to the tidal frequency and the roles played by the internal parameters of the fluid such as rotation, stratification, viscosity and thermal diffusivity that will impact the spins/orbital architecture in planetary systems.
Revisiting the capture of Mercury into its 3:2 spin-orbit resonance
Authors: Noyelles Benoît , Frouard Julien , Makarov Valeri V. , Efroimsky Michael
Published: January 2015

We simulate the despinning of Mercury, with or without a fluid core, and with a frequency-dependent tidal model employed. The tidal model incorporates the viscoelastic (Maxwell) rebound at low frequencies and a predominantly inelastic (Andrade) creep at higher frequencies. It is combined with a statistically relevant set of histories of Mercury's eccentricity. The tidal model has a dramatic influence on the behaviour of spin histories near spin-orbit resonances. The probabilities of capture into high-order resonances are greatly enhanced. Exploring several scenarios, we conclude that the present 3:2 spin state was achieved by entrapment of an initially prograde cold Mercury when its age was less than 20 Myr, i.e., well before differentiation.