bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Rising World Rice Prices on Poverty and Inequality in Burkina Faso
Authors: Badolo Félix , Traoré Fousseini
Published: February 2015

Between January 2006 and April 2008, the prices of most agricultural products rose considerably in international markets. Empirical studies show that this spike in world food prices increased the number of poor households in developing countries, but the extent was not the same in all countries. This article assesses the impact of rising rice prices on poverty and income inequality in Burkina Faso, using a methodology based on the concept of compensating variation combined with the net benefit ratio (NBR) developed by Deaton (1989) and a living standard survey (QUIBB, 2003). The results show that higher prices have a negative impact on income and poverty in the regions with a large proportion of households that are net buyers of rice. The poverty rate increases by 2.2 to 2.9 percentage points depending on the assumptions, the increase being higher in urban areas than in rural areas. Rising rice prices also increase income inequality, which increases particularly in urban areas and in relatively rich regions, but decreases in poor regions with a large proportion of rice producers.
A Comparative Analysis of the Use of Microfinance and Formal and Informal Credit by Farmers in Less Developed Areas of Rural China
Authors: Jia Xiangping , Luan Hao , Huang Jikun , Li Zuowen
Published: February 2015

Based on household survey data, this article shows that farmers' demand for credit in poor areas of rural China has increased significantly in recent years, and credits from various sources are used differently in production and consumption. For example, microfinance is used primarily in livestock and non‐agricultural investments, formal credit is often used in crop production, and informal credit is largely used to meet farmers' consumption requirements. Developing a complementary system with various financial channels in rural China, particularly for non‐governmental microfinance, is crucial for meeting farmers' rising demand for credit in both production and consumption.
Clinical impact of studying epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity in pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Kovacic Boris , Rosner Margit , Schipany Katharina , Ionce Loredana , Hengstschläger Markus
Published: February 2015

Background

The ability of cells to travel long distances in order to form tissues and organs is inherently connected to embryogenesis. The process in which epithelial‐like embryonic cells become motile and invasive is termed ‘epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition’ (EMT), while the reversion of this programme – yielding differentiated cells and organs – is called ‘mesenchymal‐to‐epithelial transition’ (MET).

Design

Here, we review the processes of EMT and MET in development and cancer and combine them with knowledge from pluripotent stem cell research.

Results

Research has shown that these processes are activated in many cancers leading to dissemination of cancer cells throughout the body and formation of metastasis. While the regulation of EMT during cancer progression has been extensively studied for decades, many fundamental processes that govern normal development are only poorly understood. Recent discoveries, such as reprogramming to pluripotent stem cells and identification of ground and primed states of pluripotent stem cells, have redirected much attention to EMT and MET.

Conclusion

Findings from pluripotent stem cell research and EMT/MET should be combined in order to design future strategies aimed to improve our understanding of cancer progression and to help develop novel anticancer strategies.
Recurrence of stroke amongst women of reproductive age: impact of and on subsequent pregnancies
Authors: Cruz‐Herranz A. , Illán‐Gala I. , Martínez‐Sánchez P. , Fuentes B. , Díez‐Tejedor E.
Published: February 2015

Background and purpose

The risk of recurrence of stroke after pregnancy is poorly known.

Methods

This was an observational study of women younger than 45 years of age with transient ischaemic attack (TIA), cerebral infarction (CI), cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) or intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) treated in a stroke unit (January 1996–2011). The clinical data were prospectively collected in a database. Information on reproductive history after stroke was obtained using telephone surveys (2011). The variables were demographic data, vascular risk factors, stroke type, outcomes, medical advice concerning pregnancies after stroke, number of pregnancies after stroke, neurological assessment during pregnancy, antithrombotic treatments during pregnancy/puerperium, fertility treatments administered and information about hemorrhagic/ischaemic stroke recurrence.

Results

Overall, 102 women were included: 24 TIA, 64 CI (four large vessel disease, 14 cardioembolic, 12 small vessel disease, 17 undetermined etiology, 17 uncommon etiology), 12 CVT and two ICH. Mean age at the time of first stroke was 35 (±7.5) years. Median follow‐up was 7.4 years (range 1–17). Thirty‐two pregnancies occurred in 27 patients (previous diagnosis: four TIA, 17 CI, five CVT and one ICH). One woman became pregnant using in vitro fertilization. Only eight pregnancies were followed up by a neurologist. Of 26 pregnancies without previous history of ICH, 18 (62%) underwent preventive antithrombotic treatment. No recurrence of stroke was observed during pregnancy/puerperium. Of the women without pregnancies after the first cerebrovascular event, four CIs and three TIAs were observed.

Conclusion

The recurrence of stroke after pregnancy is very low, which should be considered when counseling these patients.
Patients' expectations of medicines – a review and qualitative synthesis
Authors: Dohnhammar Ulrica , Reeve Joanne , Walley Tom
Published: February 2015

Background

An increasing part of prescribing of medicines is done for the purpose of managing risk for disease and is motivated by clinical and economic benefit on a long‐term, population level. This makes benefit from medicines less tangible for individuals. Sociology of pharmaceuticals includes personal and social perspectives in the study of how medicines are used. We use two characterizations of patients' expectations of medicines to start forming a description of how individuals conceptualize benefits from risk management medicines.

Search strategy and synthesis

We reviewed the literature on patients' expectations with a focus on the influences on expectations regarding medicines prescribed for long‐term conditions. Searches in Medline and Scopus identified 20 studies for inclusion, describing qualitative aspects of beliefs, views, thoughts and expectations regarding medicines.

Results

A qualitative synthesis using a constant comparative thematic analysis identified four themes describing influences on expectations: a need to achieve a specific outcome; the development of experiences and evaluation over time; negative values such as dependency and social stigma; and personalized meaning of the necessity and usefulness of medicines.

Conclusions

The findings in this synthesis resonate with previous research into expectations of medicines for prevention and treatment of different conditions. However, a gap in the knowledge regarding patients' conceptualization of future benefits with medicines is identified. The study highlights suggestions for further empirical work to develop a deeper understanding of the role of patients' expectations in prescribing for long‐term risk management.
Efficacy of topical application of human breast milk on atopic eczema healing among infants: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kasrae Hengameh , Amiri Farahani Leila , Yousefi Parsa
Published: February 2015

Infant atopic eczema is an inflammatory lesion usually involving the epidermis of the skin. About 50% of infants are affected by this lesion in the first years of their lives. Studies show human breast milk (HBM) as a preventive measure and effective treatment of some sores and infections. This article evaluates the short‐term efficacy ofHBMversus hydrocortisone 1% ointment in infants with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD). We conducted a randomized clinical trial among infants with diagnosedADwithin a pediatrics unit. The majority ofADcases in both groups were considered moderate severity. There were no significant differences between these two groups at days 0, 7, 14, and 21, and the interventions of both groups were found to have the same effects. The external validity and consequently the ability to generalize the findings may be diminished as this study was conducted in a single site. Owing toHBMand the hydrocortisone 1% ointment providing the same results in the healing ofAD,HBMwas used because of low cost and accessibility.
A stochastic cross‐efficiency data envelopment analysis approach for supplier selection under uncertainty
Authors: Dotoli Mariagrazia , Epicoco Nicola , Falagario Marco , Sciancalepore Fabio
Published: February 2015

This paper addresses one of the key objectives of the supply chain strategic design phase, that is, the optimal selection of suppliers. A methodology for supplier selection under uncertainty is proposed, integrating the cross‐efficiency data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Monte Carlo approach. The combination of these two techniques allows overcoming the deterministic feature of the classical cross‐efficiency DEA approach. Moreover, we define an indicator of the robustness of the determined supplier ranking. The technique is able to manage the supplier selection problem considering nondeterministic input and output data. It allows the evaluation of suppliers under uncertainty, a particularly significant circumstance for the assessment of potential suppliers. The novel approach helps buyers in choosing the right partners under uncertainty and ranking suppliers upon a multiple sourcing strategy, even when considering complex evaluations with a high number of suppliers and many input and output criteria.
Exploration and exploitation of foraging patches by desert sparrows: environmental indicators and local evaluation of spatially correlated costs and benefits
Authors: Milesi Fernando A. , Marone Luis
Published: February 2015

Conventional evolutionary and behavioral reasoning expects foragers to show strong spatial preferences in environments with heterogeneous resource distribution. Moreover, consumers should benefit from exploiting the information embedded in environmental features that indicate resource abundance. In desert soils seed abundance associates strong and reliably with vegetation and litter cover at small spatial scales. However, other spatially correlated factors (substrate complexity, temperature, predation risk) may affect foraging costs, benefits and decisions by ground‐feeding granivores. We used a sequence of three semi‐controlled field experiments of binary spatial choice within a portable aviary to identify the main cause of foraging microhabitat selection by the most abundant postdispersal granivorous bird in the central Monte desert (Argentina). In the first experiment we placed the aviary at field to offer pairs of adjacent microhabitats of unmodified, naturally‐contrasting substrates and environmental conditions to single, untrained rufous‐collared sparrowsZonotrichia capensis. Birds selected covered microhabitats in winter and summer, ruling out substrate complexity or thermoregulation as main single causes of patch selection. The other two experiments dissociated seed abundance, tree cover and litter to reveal their effects on patch selection. The results indicate that 1) sparrows do not restrict microhabitat exploration relying on environmental indicators, 2) distance to tree cover influences the order of patch exploration, probably in association with apprehension or risk‐assessment behavior, and 3) patch exploitation is determined by short‐term local estimation of seed abundance. The integration of these with previous results obtained under variable degrees of realism and experimental control allows for a better explanation of the spatial component of postdispersal granivory and its consequences on plants. The unconstrained selective foraging strategy of these sparrows would allow them to detect sporadic or ephemeral rich patches with structural characteristics indicating ‘low‐quality’, should promote the spatial homogenization of the palatable seed bank, and would favor indirect interactions between plants.
Nest desertion cannot be considered an egg‐rejection mechanism in a medium‐sized host: an experimental study with the common blackbirdTurdus merula
Authors: Soler Manuel , Ruiz‐Raya Francisco , Roncalli Gianluca , Ibáñez‐Álamo Juan Diego
Published: February 2015

Two main mechanisms of egg rejection, the main defence of hosts against brood parasites, have been described: ejection and desertion. Desertion of the parasitized nest is much more costly and is usually exhibited by small‐sized host species unable to remove the parasitic egg. However, nest desertion is frequently assumed to be an anti‐parasite strategy even in medium or large‐sized host species. This assumption should be considered with caution because: 1) large‐sized hosts able to eject the parasitic egg should eject it rather than desert the nest, and 2) breeding birds may desert their nests in response to different disturbances other than brood parasitism. This problem is especially important in the common blackbirdTurdus merulabecause this is a medium‐sized species, potential host of the common cuckooCuculus canorus, in which desertion has been frequently reported as a response to cuckoo egg models. Here, we seek to determine whether nest desertion can be considered a response unequivocally directed to the parasitic egg in medium‐sized hosts using the blackbird as the study species. In an experimental study in which we have manipulated levels of mimicry and size of experimental eggs, we have found that both colour (mimetic and non‐mimetic; at least for human vision) and size (small, medium, and large) significantly affected ejection rates but not nest desertion rates. In fact, although large eggs disproportionally provoked nest desertion more frequently than did small or medium‐sized eggs, cuckoo‐sized parasitic eggs were not deserted allowing us to conclude that desertion is unlikely to be an adaptive response to brood parasitism at least for this species.
Case of ketoacidosis by a sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor in a diabetic patient with a low‐carbohydrate diet
Authors: Hayami Tomohide , Kato Yoshiro , Kamiya Hideki , Kondo Masaki , Naito Ena , Sugiura Yukako , Kojima Chika , Sato Sami , Yamada Yuichiro , Kasagi Rina , Ando Toshihito , Noda Saeko , Nakai Hiromi , Takada Eriko , Asano Emi , Motegi Mikio , Watarai Atsuko , Kato Koichi , Nakamura Jiro
Published: February 2015

We present a case of a 32‐year‐old diabetic woman with Prader–Willi syndrome who developed severe ketoacidosis caused by a sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, a novel class of antihyperglycemic agents, during a strict low‐carbohydrate diet. At admission, a serum glucose level of 191 mg/dL was relatively low, though laboratory evaluations showed severe ketoacidosis. This is the first report of ketoacidosis caused by a SGLT2 inhibitor. It is necessary to not only pay attention when using a SGLT2 inhibitor in patients following a low‐carbohydrate diet, but also to start a low‐carbohydrate diet in patients treated with a SGLT2 inhibitor because of a high risk for developing ketoacidosis.
What effect does medicine advice provided by UK Medicines Information pharmacists have on prescriber practice and patient care: a qualitative primary care study
Authors: Rutter Jill , Fitzpatrick Raymond , Rutter Paul
Published: February 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

UK Medicines Information (UKMI) is pharmacist‐led service funded by the National Health Service providing evidence‐based advice about medicines to health care professionals. Service evaluations have repeatedly shown high user satisfaction but few studies have assessed how this advice influences the care patients receive. Furthermore, no study has assessed how prescribers actually use this information in shaping their decision making. The aim was to explore how UKMI advice influences prescriber decision making and patient care.

Methods

Doctors and dentists (referred to as prescribers) working in primary care in England and Wales who received reactive medicines advice from a medicines information centre were contacted by telephone to determine how they used the advice provided. Forty semi‐structured interviews were analysed and coded using constant comparative content analysis.

Results

Five key themes were identified that affected prescriber decision making, these were: prescriber action, patient outcome, medicines information advice, risk management and time factors. Prescribers acted directly on the advice provided enabling them to provide the right care for their patients. Advice had a positive effect on how they viewed a medication problem and empowered them to make decisions that appeared to confer greater confidence in managing patient problems. A favourable patient outcome was described by over half of the prescribers, for example, the advice enabled them to provide patient reassurance, avoid a potential allergic reaction, stabilize the patient's condition or stop treatment.

Conclusions

Medicines information advice empowered prescribers in helping them to make decisions about medicines that shaped patient care.
Characteristics and Effectiveness of Fall Prevention Programs in Nursing Homes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Vlaeyen Ellen , Coussement Joke , Leysens Greet , Van der Elst Elisa , Delbaere Kim , Cambier Dirk , Denhaerynck Kris , Goemaere Stefan , Wertelaers Arlette , Dobbels Fabienne , Dejaeger Eddy , Milisen Koen ,   the Center of Expertise for Fall and Fracture Prevention Flanders
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To determine characteristics and effectiveness of prevention programs on fall‐related outcomes in a defined setting.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Setting

A clearly described subgroup of nursing homes defined as residential facilities that provide 24‐hour‐a‐day surveillance, personal care, and limited clinical care for persons who are typically elderly and infirm.

Participants

Nursing home residents (N = 22,915).

Measurements

The primary outcomes were number of falls, fallers, and recurrent fallers.

Results

Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Six fall prevention programs were single (one intervention component provided to the residents), one was multiple (two or more intervention components not customized to individual fall risk), and six were multifactorial (two or more intervention components customized to each resident's fall risk). Meta‐analysis found significantly fewer recurrent fallers in the intervention groups (4 studies, relative risk (RR) = 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.65–0.97) but no significant effect of the intervention on fallers (6 studies, RR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.84–1.11) or falls (10 studies, RR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.76–1.13). Multifactorial interventions significantly reduced falls (4 studies, RR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.55–0.82) and the number of recurrent fallers (4 studies, RR = 0.79, CI = 0.65–0.97), whereas single or multiple interventions did not. Training and education showed a significant harmful effect in the intervention groups on the number of falls (2 studies, RR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.23–1.36).

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis failed to reveal a significant effect of fall prevention interventions on falls or fallers but, for the first time, showed that fall prevention interventions significantly reduced the number of recurrent fallers by 21%.
End‐of‐Life Decisions in Individuals Dying with Dementia in Belgium
Authors: Chambaere Kenneth , Cohen Joachim , Robijn Lenzo , Bailey S. Kathleen , Deliens Luc
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To describe the prevalence and characteristics of end‐of‐life decisions in individuals dying with dementia in Belgium.

Design

Retrospective mail survey.

Setting

Brussels and Flanders, Belgium.

Participants

Physicians certifying a large random sample of deaths (n = 8,627).

Measurements

End‐of‐life decision‐making in individuals dying with dementia (n = 361) was compared through bivariate and multivariable analyses with decision‐making in individuals dying from cancer (n = 1,276) as reference group.

Results

Response rate was 54.7%. The intense pain and symptoms of individuals with dementia was alleviated less often than those of individuals with cancer (odds ratio (OR) = 0.50, P < .001), and individuals with dementia were more likely to have life‐prolonging treatment withheld or withdrawn (OR = 1.40, P = .048). Five individuals with dementia (1.3%) requested euthanasia but did not receive it; 60 (4.7%) individuals with cancer who requested euthanasia received it, and 48 (3.8%) who requested it did not (OR = 0.04, P = .047). Individuals with dementia rarely had capacity to participate in decision‐making, which more often involved their families than in individuals with cancer (OR = 1.99, P = .009). Little prospect of improvement (59.7%), pointless life prolongation (54.5%), poor quality of life (46.2%), and prevention of further suffering (37.6%) were important reasons for end‐of‐life decisions in individuals with dementia.

Conclusion

End‐of‐life decision‐making in individuals dying with dementia differs from that in individuals with cancer, more often involving forgoing of life‐prolonging treatment and less often involving intensifying pain and symptom treatment. Considerations typically involve the prospects of the individual with dementia as opposed to the severity of their present situation. Optimal processes of advance care planning may address the burdensome decision falling to physicians and family regarding when to allow the individual to die.
Beneficial effects of mineralocorticoid receptor blockade in experimental non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Pizarro Margarita , Solís Nancy , Quintero Pablo , Barrera Francisco , Cabrera Daniel , Rojas‐de Santiago Pamela , Arab Juan P. , Padilla Oslando , Roa Juan C. , Moshage Han , Wree Alexander , Inzaugarat Eugenia , Feldstein Ariel E. , Fardella Carlos E. , Baudrand Rene , Riquelme Arnoldo , Arrese Marco
Published: February 2015

Background

Therapeutic options to treat Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are limited. Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) activation could play a role in hepatic fibrogenesis and its modulation could be beneficial for NASH.

Aim

To investigate whether eplerenone, a specific MR antagonist, ameliorates liver damage in experimental NASH.

Methods

C57bl6 mice were fed a choline‐deficient and amino acid‐defined (CDAA) diet for 22 weeks with or without eplerenone supplementation. Serum levels of aminotransferases and aldosterone were measured and hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis scored histologically. Hepatic triglyceride content (HTC) and hepatic mRNA levels of pro‐inflammatory pro‐fibrotic, oxidative stress‐associated genes and of MR were also assessed.

Results

CDAA diet effectively induced fibrotic NASH, and increased the hepatic expression of pro‐inflammatory, pro‐fibrotic and oxidative stress‐associated genes. Hepatic MR mRNA levels significantly correlated with the expression of pro‐inflammatory and pro‐fibrotic genes and were significantly increased in hepatic stellate cells obtained from CDAA‐fed animals. Eplerenone administration was associated to a reduction in histological steatosis and attenuation of liver fibrosis development, which was associated to a significant decrease in the expression of collagen‐α1, collagen type III, alpha 1 and Matrix metalloproteinase‐2.

Conclusion

The expression of MR correlates with inflammation and fibrosis development in experimental NASH. Specific MR blockade with eplerenone has hepatic anti‐steatotic and anti‐fibrotic effects. These data identify eplerenone as a potential novel therapy for NASH. Considering its safety and FDA‐approved status, human studies are warranted.
Electrical Stimulation of Vascular Autonomic Nerves: Effects on Heart Rate, Blood Pressure, and Arrhythmias
Authors: SUN JIAN , SCHERLAG BENJAMIN J. , HE BO , SHEN XIAOHUA , GAO MEI , ZHANG LING , LI YIGANG , PO SUNNY S.
Published: February 2015

Background

Recent clinical studies have shown conflicting results of the efficacy of renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) to mitigate hypertension. In this study, we compared electrical stimulation (ES) of autonomic nerves on the surface of the left pulmonary artery (LPA) and renal arteries (RAs) on heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and cardiac arrhythmias.

Methods

In 16 pentobarbital anesthetized dogs, standard electrocardiography leads and blood pressure (BP) were continuously recorded. After a left thoracotomy, a circumferential multielectrode catheter was secured around the LPA. Atrial pacing was coupled to the ES applied around the LPA during the QRS complex to avoid ventricular excitation. Flank incisions allowed retroperitoneal expose of the RAs and the aortico‐renal ganglia (ARG). HR and SBP/DBP were determined at baseline (BL) and during ES of LPA, RA, or ARG.

Results

During ES applied to the LPA, HR was unchanged compared to BL values. In four of six animals, ventricular tachyarrhythmias were induced by ES. SBP increased significantly (BL vs ES, 129 ± 17 mm Hg vs 163 ± 21 mm Hg, P ≤ 0.05). ES applied to the RAs and ARG did not affect the HR, but significantly increased SBP/DBP (baseline: 134 ± 24/96 ± 18 mm Hg; RAs stimulation: 157 ± 26/114 ± 18 mm Hg; ARG stimulation: 207 ± 44/147 ± 26 mm Hg, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

ES of vascular autonomic nerves on LPA, RAs, and ARG significantly increased BP but without effects on HR. ES of ARG induced substantially greater hypertensive responses than ES of RAs, implying that ES of ARG may serve as a biomarker or ablation targets for RSD.
Stabilizing Knowledge
Authors: Hannon Michael
Published: February 2015

If epistemic contextualism is correct, then knowledge attributions do not have stable truth‐conditions across different contexts. John Hawthorne, Timothy Williamson, and Patrick Rysiew argue that this unstable picture of knowledge attributions undermines the role that knowledge reports play in storing, retrieving, and transmitting useful information. Contrary to this view, I argue that the truth‐conditions of knowledge attributions are more stable than critics have claimed, and that contextualism is compatible with the role knowledge attributions play in storing, retrieving, and transmitting information across contexts. In particular, I discuss a social dimension of ‘knowledge’ that limits contextual variability. This indicates a new way of characterizing contextualism.
The role of L1cam in murine corticogenesis, and the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus
Authors: Itoh Kyoko , Fushiki Shinji
Published: February 2015

L1cam (L1), one of the cell adhesion molecules belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily, plays critical roles in neuronal migration, axon growth, guidance, fasciculation, and synaptic plasticity in the central as well as the peripheral nervous system. A number of X‐linked forms of mental retardation have been associated with mutations in the L1 gene, including X‐linked hydrocephalus in humans. Although model mice with different sites of L1 mutation have been studied, the pathogenetic mechanisms of hydrocephalus and mental retardation still remain unsolved. We herein present an overview of the function of L1 in the central nervous system and describe a human case of L1 mutation and knock‐in mice that showed deleted sixth immunoglobulin of L1. Finally, we present experimental evidence showing that L1 is involved in murine neocortical histogenesis and propose a hypothetical mechanism of L1‐linked hydrocephalus, with reference to corticogenesis.
Hepatitis B virus quasispecies evolution after liver transplantation in patients under long‐term lamivudine prophylaxis with or without hepatitis B immune globulin
Authors: Buti M. , Tabernero D. , Mas A. , Homs M. , Prieto M. , Rodríguez‐Frías F. , Casafont F. , Casillas R. , González A. , Miras M. , Herrero J.I. , Castells L. , Esteban R.
Published: February 2015

Aims

To investigate an optimal long‐term prophylactic strategy for prevention of hepatitis B virus (HBV) recurrence after liver transplantation, we conducted a randomized study of 29 transplant recipients receiving a short course of hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIg) + lamivudine (LAM), followed by randomization to long‐term prophylaxis with LAM with or without HBIg.

Methods

The efficacy and safety, and impact on survival and HBV recurrence of these 2 prophylactic regimens were compared over a mean period of 10 years. In patients with viral recurrence, the HBV quasispecies in the surface/polymerase region were studied by ultra‐deep pyrosequencing (UDPS).

Results

The 10‐year survival rate was 76% and was not affected by the type of prophylaxis. Four patients had hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) recurrence within the first 48 months after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). HBsAg‐positive and ‐negative patients showed similar mean survival times, with no differences between the 2 regimens. Low HBV DNA levels were transiently detected in 32% of HBsAg‐negative patients. UDPS showed major changes after OLT in the HBV quasispecies of patients with viral recurrence, which may be explained by a “bottleneck” effect of OLT together with prophylactic therapy.

Conclusion

Long‐term survival after OLT in end‐stage chronic hepatitis B patients was good with both prophylactic strategies. However, low, transient HBV DNA levels were detected even in the absence of HBsAg, showing the importance of continuing HBV prophylaxis.
Red blood cell depletion from bone marrow and peripheral blood buffy coat: a comparison of two new and three established technologies
Authors: Sorg Nadine , Poppe Carolin , Bunos Milica , Wingenfeld Eva , Hümmer Christiane , Krämer Ariane , Stock Belinda , Seifried Erhard , Bonig Halvard
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Red blood cell (RBC) depletion is a standard technique for preparation of ABO‐incompatible bone marrow transplants (BMTs). Density centrifugation or apheresis are used successfully at clinical scale. The advent of a bone marrow (BM) processing module for the Spectra Optia (Terumo BCT) provided the initiative to formally compare our standard technology, the COBE2991 (Ficoll, manual, “C”) with the Spectra Optia BMP (apheresis, semiautomatic, “O”), the Sepax II NeatCell (Ficoll, automatic, “S”), the Miltenyi CliniMACS Prodigy density gradient separation system (Ficoll, automatic, “P”), and manual Ficoll (“M”). C and O handle larger product volumes than S, P, and M.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Technologies were assessed for RBC depletion, target cell (mononuclear cells [MNCs] for buffy coats [BCs], CD34+ cells for BM) recovery, and cost/labor. BC pools were simultaneously purged with C, O, S, and P; five to 18 BM samples were sequentially processed with C, O, S, and M.

RESULTS

Mean RBC removal with C was 97% (BCs) or 92% (BM). From both products, O removed 97%, and P, S, and M removed 99% of RBCs. MNC recovery from BC (98% C, 97% O, 65% P, 74% S) or CD34+ cell recovery from BM (92% C, 90% O, 67% S, 70% M) were best with C and O. Polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) were depleted from BCs by P, S, and C, while O recovered 50% of PMNs. Time savings compared to C or M for all tested technologies are considerable.

CONCLUSION

All methods are in principle suitable and can be selected based on sample volume, available technology, and desired product specifications beyond RBC depletion and MNC and/or CD34+ cell recovery.
Validation of a Monte Carlo Integral Formulation Applied to Solar Facility Simulations and Use of Sensitivities
Authors: Caliot Cyril , Benoit Hadrien , Guillot Emmanuel , Sans Jean-Louis , Ferriere Alain , Flamant Gilles , Coustet Christophe , Piaud Benjamin
Published: February 2015

The design of solar concentrating systems and receivers requires the spatial distribution of the solar flux on the receiver. This article presents an integral formulation of the optical model for the multiple reflections involved in solar concentrating facilities, which is solved by a Monte Carlo ray-tracing (MCRT) algorithm that handles complex geometries. An experimental validation of this model is obtained with published results for a dish configuration. The convergence of the proposed algorithm is studied and found faster than collision-based algorithms. In addition, an example of the use of the sensitivity of the power on a target to the mirror rms-slope is given by treating an inverse-problem consisting in finding the equivalent rms-slope of mirrors that best match the flux map measurements.
Tendon Cross-Sectional Area is Not Associated with Muscle Volume
Authors: Fukutani Atsuki , Kurihara Toshiyuki
Published: February 2015

Recent studies have reported that resistance training increases the cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of tendons; however, this finding has not been consistently observed across different studies. If tendon CSA increases through resistance training, resistance-trained individuals should have larger tendon CSAs as compared with untrained individuals. Therefore, in the current study, we aimed to investigate whether resistance training increases tendon CSAs by comparing resistance-trained and untrained individuals. Sixteen males, who were either body builders or rugby players, were recruited as the training group, and 11 males, who did not participate in regular resistance training, were recruited into the control group. Tendon CSAs and muscle volumes of the triceps brachii, quadriceps femoris, and triceps surae were calculated from images obtained by using magnetic resonance imaging. The volumes of the 3 muscles were significantly higher in the training group than in the control group (P < .001 for all muscles). However, a significant difference in tendon CSAs was found only for the distal portion of the triceps surae tendon (P = .041). These findings indicate that tendon CSA is not associated with muscle volume, suggesting that resistance training does not increase tendon CSA.
Elastically Suspending the Screw Holes of a Locked Osteosynthesis Plate Can Dampen Impact Loads
Authors: Capanni Felix , Hansen Kirk , Fitzpatrick Daniel C. , Madey Steven M. , Bottlang Michael
Published: February 2015

Impact damping by elastic fixation is a principal engineering strategy to increase the durability of load-bearing structures exposed to prolonged dynamic loading. This biomechanical study evaluated axial impact damping provided by a novel dynamic locking plate. In this design, locking screw holes are elastically suspended within a silicone envelope inside the locking plate. Axial impact damping was assessed for 3 distinct fixation constructs applied to bridge a 10-mm fracture gap of a femoral diaphysis surrogate: a standard locking plate, a dynamic locking plate, and an Ilizarov ring fixator. First, the 3 fixation constructs were characterized by determining their axial stiffness. Subsequently, constructs were subjected to a range of axial impact loads to quantify damping of force transmission. Compared with standard locked plating constructs, dynamic plating constructs were 58% less stiff (P < .01) and Ilizarov constructs were 88% less stiff (P < .01). Impact damping correlated inversely with construct stiffness. Compared with standard plating, dynamic plating constructs and Ilizarov constructs dampened the transmission of impact loads by up to 48% (P < .01) and 74% (P < .01), respectively. In conclusion, lower construct stiffness correlated with superior damping of axial impact loads. Dynamic locking plates provide significantly greater impact damping compared with standard locking plates.
Efficacy of Brain Gym Training on the Cognitive Performance and Fitness Level of Active Older Adults: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Cancela José M. , Vila Suárez, M Helena , Vasconcelos Jamine , Lima Ana , Ayán Carlos
Published: February 2015

This study evaluates the impact of Brain Gym (BG) training in active older adults. Eighty-five participants were assigned to four training groups: BG (n = 18), BG plus water-based exercise (n = 18), land-based exercise (n = 30), and land plus water-based exercise (n = 19). The effects of the programs on the attention and memory functions were assessed by means of the symbol digit modality test. The two-min step and the eight-foot up-and-go tests were used to evaluate their impact on fitness level. No program had a significant influence on the participant’s cognitive performance, while different effects on the sample’ fitness levels were observed. These findings suggest that the effects of BG on the cognitive performance and fitness level of active older adults are similar to those obtained after the practice of a traditional exercise program. Whether BG is performed in isolation or combined with other exercise programs seems to have no influence on such effects.
Effects of Progressive Resistance Exercise Training on the Motor and Nonmotor Features of Parkinson's Disease: A Review
Authors: Lamotte Guillaume , Skender Elizabeth , Rafferty Miriam R. , David Fabian J. , Sadowsky Steve , Corcos Daniel M.
Published: February 2015

Objective:

This paper reviews the therapeutically beneficial effects of progressive resistance exercise training (PRET) on motor and nonmotor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods:

First, we perform a systematic review of the literature on the effects of PRET on motor signs of PD, functional outcomes, quality of life, and patient perceived improvement, strength, and cognition in PD. Second, we perform a meta-analysis on the motor section of the UPDRS. Finally, we discuss the results of our review and we identify current knowledge gaps regarding PRET in PD.

Conclusion:

This systematic review synthesizes evidence that PRET can improve strength and motor signs of Parkinsonism in PD and may also be beneficial for physical function in individuals with PD. Further research is needed to explore the effects of PRET on nonmotor symptoms such as depression, cognitive impairment, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and quality of life in individuals with PD.
Crystallization kinetics of glassy Se–Te–Sn alloys
Authors: Rashad M. , Amin R. , Hafiz M.M.
Published: February 2015

The present article deals with the differential thermal analyses (DTA) study of Se–Te glasses containing Sn. DTA runs are taken at six different heating rates (5, 10, 15, 18, 20, and 22 K min−1). The crystallization data are examined in terms of modified Kissinger, Mahadevan method, and Augis and Bennett approximation for the non-isothermal crystallization. Results of DTA under non-isothermal conditions on the glasses of the Se80Te20--xSnx (x = 3 and 9) are reported and discussed at different heating rates. The glass transition temperatures (Tg), the onset crystallization temperatures (Tc), and the peak temperature of crystallization (Tp) were found to be dependent on the compositions and the heating rates. From the dependence on heating rates of (Tg) and (Tp) the activation energy for glass transition (Eg) and the activation energy for crystallization (Ec) are calculated and their composition dependence discussed.
Bifurcation of Limit Cycles from a Quasi-Homogeneous Degenerate Center
Authors: Geng Fengjie , Lian Hairong
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we deal with the following differential system [Formula: see text] where p, q are positive integers, and P(x, y), Q(x, y) are real polynomials of degree n, we obtain an upper bound for the maximum number of limit cycles bifurcating from the period annulus of a quasi-homogeneous center, that is (n - 1)p1 + (t + 1)q - 1 + 2rp1q1(q + 3) + 2tqrp1q1, where t = [n/2q] + 2, (p, q) = r(p1, q1), p1 and q1 are coprime.
A Simple Solution to the Braga–Mello Conjecture
Authors: Novaes Douglas D. , Ponce Enrique
Published: February 2015

Recently Braga and Mello conjectured that for a given n ∈ ℕ there is a piecewise linear system with two zones in the plane with exactly n limit cycles. In this paper, we prove a result from which the conjecture is an immediate consequence. Several explicit examples are given where location and stability of limit cycles are provided.
Bifurcation Analysis and Optimal Harvesting of a Delayed Predator–Prey Model
Authors: Tchinda Mouofo P. , Djidjou Demasse R. , Tewa J. J. , Aziz-Alaoui M. A.
Published: February 2015

A delay predator–prey model is formulated with continuous threshold prey harvesting and Holling response function of type III. Global qualitative and bifurcation analyses are combined to determine the global dynamics of the model. The positive invariance of the non-negative orthant is proved and the uniform boundedness of the trajectories. Stability of equilibria is investigated and the existence of some local bifurcations is established: saddle-node bifurcation, Hopf bifurcation. We use optimal control theory to provide the correct approach to natural resource management. Results are also obtained for optimal harvesting. Numerical simulations are given to illustrate the results.
Analysis of Dynamical Behaviors in a Continuous Chaotic System Without Šil'nikov Orbits
Authors: Chen Baoying , Han Xiaozhuo
Published: February 2015

This paper discusses a simple yet interesting three-dimensional autonomous quadratic chaotic system, which has two fixed points of saddle-focus type but does not belong to the class of Šil'nikov type since there are neither homoclinic nor heteroclinic orbits. Dynamical behaviors of this chaotic system are investigated in detail through analyzing bifurcation routes, Lyapunov exponents and Poincaré mappings. These investigations partially reveal the mechanism of how chaos in non-Šil'nikov type of systems is generated.
Exact Solutions and Bifurcations of a Modulated Equation in a Discrete Nonlinear Electrical Transmission Line (I)
Authors: Li Jibin , Jiang Lin
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we consider a model which is a modulated equation in a discrete nonlinear electrical transmission line. By investigating the dynamical behavior and bifurcations of solutions of the planar dynamical systems, we derive all explicit exact parametric representations of solutions (including smooth solitary wave solutions, smooth periodic wave solutions, peakons, compactons, periodic cusp wave solutions, etc.) under different parameter conditions.
Global stability of a stochastic predator–prey model with Allee effect
Authors: Tian Baodan , Yang Liu , Zhong Shouming
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we study a stochastic predator–prey model with Beddington–DeAngelis functional response and Allee effect, and show that there is a unique global positive solution to the system with the positive initial value. Sufficient conditions for global asymptotic stability are established. Some simulation figures are introduced to support the analytical findings.
Sublethal Heavy Metal Stress Stimulates Innate Immunity in Tomato
Authors: Chakraborty Nilanjan , Chandra Swarnendu , Acharya Krishnendu
Published: February 2015

Effect of sublethal heavy metal stress as plant biotic elicitor for triggering innate immunity in tomato plant was investigated. Copper in in vivo condition induced accumulation of defense enzymes like peroxidase (PO), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), and β‐1,3 glucanase along with higher accumulation of total phenol, antioxidative enzymes (catalase and ascorbate peroxidase), and total chlorophyll content. Furthermore, the treatment also induced nitric oxide (NO) production which was confirmed by realtime visualization of NO burst using a fluorescent probe 4,5‐diaminofluorescein diacetate (DAF‐2DA) and spectrophotometric analysis. The result suggested that the sublethal dose of heavy metal can induce an array of plant defense responses that lead to the improvement of innate immunity in plants.
Value of 18-F-FDG PET/CT and CT in the Diagnosis of Indeterminate Adrenal Masses
Authors: Launay Nathalie , Silvera Stéphane , Tenenbaum Florence , Groussin Lionel , Tissier Frédérique , Audureau Etienne , Vignaux Olivier , Dousset Bertrand , Bertagna Xavier , Legmann Paul
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this paper was to study the value of 18-FDG PET/CT and reassess the value of CT for the characterization of indeterminate adrenal masses. 66 patients with 67 indeterminate adrenal masses were included in our study. CT/MRI images and 18F-FDG PET/CT data were evaluated blindly for tumor morphology, enhancement features, apparent diffusion coefficient values, maximum standardized uptake values, and adrenal-to-liver maxSUV ratio. The study population comprised pathologically confirmed 16 adenomas, 19 metastases, and 32 adrenocortical carcinomas. Macroscopic fat was observed in 62.5% of the atypical adenomas at CT but not in malignant masses. On 18F-FDG PET/CT, SUVmax and adrenal-to-liver maxSUV ratio were significantly lower in adenomas than in malignant tumors. An SUVmax value of less than 3.7 or an adrenal-to-liver maxSUV ratio of less than 1.29 is highly predictive of benignity.
Significantly Elevated Serum Lipase in Pregnancy with Nausea and Vomiting: Acute Pancreatitis or Hyperemesis Gravidarum?
Authors: Johnson Amanda , Cluskey Bethany , Hooshvar Nina , Tice Daphne , Devin Courtney , Kao Elaine , Nawabi Suhalia , Jones Steven , Zhang Lihua , Dola Chi
Published: February 2015

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe manifestation of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy and it is associated with weight loss and metabolic abnormalities. It is known that abnormal laboratory values, including mildly elevated serum lipase level, could be associated with hyperemesis gravidarum. However, in this case report details of two women with hyperemesis gravidarum but with significantly elevated serum lipase levels were discussed. These patients presented with severe nausea and vomiting but without abdominal pain. They were found to have severely elevated lipase levels over 1,000 units/liter. In the absence of other findings of pancreatitis, they were treated with conservative measures for hyperemesis gravidarum, with eventual resolution to normal lipase levels. Although significantly elevated lipase level in pregnant patients with nausea and vomiting is a concern for acute pancreatitis, these two cases of significantly elevated serum lipase without other clinical findings of pancreatitis led to this report that serum lipase could be quite elevated in hyperemesis gravidarum and that it might not be an accurate biochemical marker for acute pancreatitis. Imaging studies are thus necessary to establish the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis.
Locus of Enterocyte Effacement: A Pathogenicity Island Involved in the Virulence of Enteropathogenic and EnterohemorragicEscherichia coliSubjected to a Complex Network of Gene Regulation
Authors: Franzin Fernanda M. , Sircili Marcelo P.
Published: February 2015

The locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE) is a 35.6 kb pathogenicity island inserted in the genome of some bacteria such as enteropathogenicEscherichia coli, enterohemorrhagicE.coli,Citrobacter rodentium, andEscherichia albertii. LEE comprises the genes responsible for causing attaching and effacing lesions, a characteristic lesion that involves intimate adherence of bacteria to enterocytes, a signaling cascade leading to brush border and microvilli destruction, and loss of ions, causing severe diarrhea. It is composed of 41 open reading frames and five major operons encoding a type three system apparatus, secreted proteins, an adhesin, called intimin, and its receptor called translocated intimin receptor (Tir). LEE is subjected to various levels of regulation, including transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulators located both inside and outside of the pathogenicity island. Several molecules were described being related to feedback inhibition, transcriptional activation, and transcriptional repression. These molecules are involved in a complex network of regulation, including mechanisms such as quorum sensing and temporal control of LEE genes transcription and translation. In this mini review we have detailed the complex network that regulates transcription and expression of genes involved in this kind of lesion.