bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An optimal stratified Simon two‐stage design
Authors: Parashar Deepak , Bowden Jack , Starr Colin , Wernisch Lorenz , Mander Adrian
Published: March 2016

In Phase II oncology trials, therapies are increasingly being evaluated for their effectiveness in specific populations of interest. Such targeted trials require designs that allow for stratification based on the participants' molecular characterisation. A targeted design proposed by Jones and Holmgren (JH) Jones CL, Holmgren E: ‘An adaptive Simon two‐stage design for phase 2 studies of targeted therapies’, Contemporary Clinical Trials 28 (2007) 654‐661.determines whether a drug only has activity in a disease sub‐population or in the wider disease population. Their adaptive design uses results from a single interim analysis to decide whether to enrich the study population with a subgroup or not; it is based on two parallel Simon two‐stage designs. We study the JH design in detail and extend it by providing a few alternative ways to control the familywise error rate, in the weak sense as well as the strong sense. We also introduce a novel optimal design by minimising the expected sample size. Our extended design contributes to the much needed framework for conducting Phase II trials in stratified medicine. © 2016 The Authors Pharmaceutical Statistics Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Dynamics of tropical–extratropical interactions and extreme precipitation events in Saudi Arabia in autumn, winter and spring
Authors: de Vries A. J. , Feldstein S. B. , Riemer M. , Tyrlis E. , Sprenger M. , Baumgart M. , Fnais M. , Lelieveld J.
Published: March 2016

Extreme precipitation in the arid Middle East can cause flash floods with dramatic societal impacts. This study investigates the synoptic‐scale dynamics of three extreme precipitation events that occurred in Saudi Arabia in autumn, winter and spring. Using ERA‐Interim reanalysis, soundings and observational precipitation data, we study precipitation characteristics, the synoptic circulations, moisture transport pathways and forcing mechanisms for upward motion. All three cases involved strong tropical–extratropical interactions whereby midlatitude forcing instigated an incursion of tropical moisture over the Arabian Peninsula that fuelled the heavy rainfall. In each case, a midlatitude upper‐level trough, associated with anticyclonic Rossby wave breaking, intruded into the subtropics. The phase relationship between this trough and the tropical low‐level circulation was consistent with wave amplification through baroclinic growth. Eulerian and Lagrangian analyses reveal moisture transport from nearby and remote tropical regions, leading to above‐normal tropospheric moisture content over Saudi Arabia. The autumn case (November 2009) showed a transient midlatitude upper‐level trough that interacted with the climatological Red Sea Trough near the surface, being an ‘Active Red Sea Trough’ event. The winter case (January 2005) resembled tropical plume‐like characteristics and demonstrated the coupling of a midlatitude cyclone and the equatorial low‐pressure zone over Africa, an intensified subtropical jet stream, and pronounced moisture fluxes at middle and upper levels. The spring case (April–May 2013) involved a quasi‐stationary cut‐off low and persistent advection of low‐level moist air masses, partly from the south Indian Ocean through cross‐equatorial flow. The forcing of ascent was associated with low‐level moisture convergence and decreased static stability (autumn case), dynamical lifting (winter case), strong surface sensible heating (spring case), and orographic lifting (all cases), favouring the build‐up and release of potential instability. We discuss the three cases from a seasonal perspective and present a synthesis of their common key synoptic features.
Mechanistic investigation of charge‐remote and charge‐driven fragmentation processes in 2,5‐diphenyl‐3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene diamidines
Authors: Stolić I. , Barić D. , Kazazić Snj. , Bratoš I. , Bajić M.
Published: March 2016

Rationale

Diphenylfuran diamidines represent an important class of DNA minor groove binders of high therapeutic interest as antitumor and antibacterial agents. This study aimed to investigate fragmentation patterns in mass spectra of four diamidine derivatives with significant antitumor activity, in order to gain more insight into the structures and stability of their putative biological metabolites.

Methods

Compounds were investigated by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS) using low‐energy collision‐induced dissociation (CID). Density functional theory calculations were performed to confirm the main fragmentation paths.

Results

The most abundant ion present in mass spectra is the doubly protonated molecule, whereas singly protonated molecules are present to a lesser extent. In the simplest compound, 2,5‐bis(4‐amidinophenyl)‐3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene, the main fragmentation path was loss of ammonia, followed by loss of HCN where possible. The fragmentation of the N‐alkyl derivatives (N‐isopropyl‐, N‐isobutyl‐, N‐cyclopentyl‐) includes competition between loss of alkene and the corresponding amine, followed by loss of another alkene and formation of fragment ions present in the pathway of the parent compound.

Conclusions

The primary sites of fragmentations of investigated compounds are amidine groups, while breaking the core 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene ring system does not take place. Fragmentation of the singly protonated molecule [M + H]+ occurs primarily on the charged side of the molecule, but a charge‐remote process is energetically viable. The fragmentation mechanism of the alkyl derivatives revealed that singly and doubly protonated molecules cleave to the singly and doubly protonated molecules of the parent compound. Once formed, they are gradually transformed into nitrile. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Wastewater Treatment Facility Closure on Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in a Coastal Plain Stream
Authors: Bradley Paul M. , Journey Celeste A. , Clark Jimmy
Published: March 2016

Wastewater treatment facility (WWTF) closures are rare environmental remediation events; offering unique insight into contaminant persistence, long‐term wastewater impacts, and ecosystem recovery processes. The U.S. Geological Survey assessed the fate of select endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) in surface water and streambed sediment one year before and one year after closure of a long‐term WWTF located within the Spirit Creek watershed at Fort Gordon, Georgia. Sample sites included a WWTF‐effluent control located upstream from the outfall, three downstream effluent‐impacted sites located between the outfall and Spirit Lake, and one downstream from the lake's outfall. Prior to closure, the 2.2‐km stream segment downstream from the WWTF outfall was characterized by EDC concentrations significantly higher (α = 0.05) than at the control site; indicating substantial downstream transport and limited in‐stream attenuation of EDC, including pharmaceuticals, estrogens, alkylphenol ethoxylate (APE) metabolites, and organophosphate flame retardants (OPFR). Wastewater‐derived pharmaceutical, APE metabolites, and OPFR compounds were also detected in the outflow of Spirit Lake, indicating the potential for EDC transport to aquatic ecosystems downstream of Fort Gordon under effluent discharge conditions. After the WWTF closure, no significant differences in concentrations or numbers of detected EDC compounds were observed between control and downstream locations. The results indicated EDC pseudo‐persistence under preclosure, continuous supply conditions, with rapid attenuation following WWTF closure. Low concentrations of EDC at the control site throughout the study and comparable concentrations in downstream locations after WWTF closure indicated additional, continuing, upstream contaminant sources within the Spirit Creek watershed.  ©2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An Approach to Simulate Interstitial Habitat Conditions During the Incubation Phase of Gravel‐Spawning Fish
Authors: Noack M. , Ortlepp J. , Wieprecht S.
Published: March 2016

The incubation period represents an important development phase for successful reproduction of gravel‐spawning fish, whereby colmation processes can affect the quality of the interstitial habitat. From a sedimentary perspective, the infiltration and accumulation of fine sediments can result in a reduction of the pore space and limit the transport of oxygen‐rich surface water in the interstitials of riverbeds. From a biogeochemical perspective, the increased surface area for microbial growth can lead to an increase of respiration rates, which additionally limits the oxygen supply. The assessment and prediction of such processes on interstitial habitat quality represents a challenging task given their complex dynamic interacting processes and their high spatio‐temporal variability. This study presents a new habitat‐based modelling approach, which simulates interstitial habitat suitability (IHS) to evaluate dynamically the quality of interstitial habitat conditions during incubation. For this purpose, three key parameters (hydraulic conductivity, interstitial temperature and hyporheic respiration) are linked to the habitat requirements of different developmental stages during the incubation period (egg, hatching, larvae) via a multivariate fuzzy approach. The proposed modelling concept has been developed on the River Spoel in Switzerland, whereby results of a numerical 3D sediment transport model, together with supplementary measurements, deliver the spatio‐temporal variations of the required input data. The fuzzy approach provides results in form of maps and time series of IHS values to allow for an identification of abiotic bottlenecks during the incubation period. Hence, this approach represents a significant contribution for the restoration of reproduction areas of gravel‐spawning fish. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A note on automatic data transformation
Authors: Feng Qing , Hannig Jan , Marron J. S.
Published: March 2016

Modern data analysis frequently involves variables with highly non‐Gaussian marginal distributions. However, commonly used analysis methods are most effective with roughly Gaussian data. This paper introduces an automatic transformation that improves the closeness of distributions to normality. For each variable, a new family of parametrizations of the shifted logarithm transformation is proposed, which is unique in treating the data as real valued and in allowing transformation for both left and right skewness within the single family. This also allows an automatic selection of the parameter value (which is crucial for high‐dimensional data with many variables to transform) by minimizing the Anderson–Darling test statistic of the transformed data. An application to image features extracted from melanoma microscopy slides demonstrates the utility of the proposed transformation in addressing data with excessive skewness, heteroscedasticity and influential observations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The colours of steel bridges in Japan – principles and examples
Authors: Kido Ewa Maria , Cywiński Zbigniew
Published: March 2016

It is presently recognized worldwide that the colours of steel bridges – besides their form – serve as one of the key factors of their aesthetic design. This paper refers to the colouring problem being characteristic of Japan, since – in addition to the respect for the usual theory of colours – special Japanese particulars, based on tradition and philosophy of life, are followed. Several bridge examples shown here stand for the accentuation effect of that special approach.

Die Farben der Stahlbrücken in Japan – Grundsätze und Beispiele. Es ist heute allgemein bekannt, dass die Farbe einer Stahlbrücke – außer ihrer Form – als einer der Grundfaktoren des ästhetischen Gestaltens gilt. Der vorliegende Beitrag bezieht sich auf dieses für Japan charakteristische Thema, da – neben der Beachtung der gewöhnlichen Farbenlehre – spezifische japanische Besonderheiten befolgt werden, die der Tradition und der Lebensphilosophie zugrunde liegen. Die hier vorgestellten Brückenbeispiele verdeutlichen die Akzentuierung infolge der besonderen Behandlung des Themas Farbgebung.
Inhibition of Focal Adhesion Kinase Signaling by Integrin α6β1 Supports Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Self-Renewal
Authors: Villa-Diaz Luis G. , Kim Jin Koo , Laperle Alex , Palecek Sean P. , Krebsbach Paul H.
Published: March 2016

Self-renewal of human embryonic stem cells and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs)—known as pluripotent stem cells (PSC)—is influenced by culture conditions, including the substrate on which they are grown. However, details of the molecular mechanisms interconnecting the substrate and self-renewal of these cells remain unclear. We describe a signaling pathway in hPSCs linking self-renewal and expression of pluripotency transcription factors to integrin α6β1 and inactivation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Disruption of this pathway results in hPSC differentiation. In hPSCs, α6β1 is the dominant integrin and FAK is not phosphorylated at Y397, and thus, it is inactive. During differentiation, integrin α6 levels diminish and Y397 FAK is phosphorylated and activated. During reprogramming of fibroblasts into iPSCs, integrin α6 is upregulated and FAK is inactivated. Knockdown of integrin α6 and activation of β1 integrin lead to FAK phosphorylation and reduction of Nanog, Oct4, and Sox2, suggesting that integrin α6 functions in inactivation of integrin β1 and FAK signaling and prevention of hPSC differentiation. The N-terminal domain of FAK, where Y397 is localized, is in the nuclei of hPSCs interacting with Oct4 and Sox2, and this immunolocalization is regulated by Oct4. hPSCs remodel the extracellular microenvironment and deposit laminin α5, the primary ligand of integrin α6β1. Knockdown of laminin α5 resulted in reduction of integrin α6 expression, phosphorylation of FAK and decreased Oct4. In conclusion, hPSCs promote the expression of integrin α6β1, and nuclear localization and inactivation of FAK to supports stem cell self-renewal.
Tetraalkylammonium Ionic Liquids as Dual Solvents–Catalysts for Direct Synthesis of Sugar Fatty Acid Esters
Authors: Lin Xiao‐Sheng , Zou Yong , Zhao Kai‐Hua , Yang Tao‐Xiang , Halling Peter , Yang Zhen
Published: March 2016

As nonionic surfactants derived from naturally renewable resources such as sugars and fatty acids, sugar fatty acid esters have been widely utilized in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Our present study has demonstrated that the inexpensive and halogen‐free tetraalkylammonium salts (e.g., [Bu4N][Ac], [Et4N][Ac] and [Me4N][Ac]) can act as dual solvents–catalysts for regioselective acylation to produce glucose laurate. This non‐enzymatic synthesis can proceed under mild conditions with high specificity, and the conversions obtained were superior to that when an enzyme catalyst (lipase, EC 3.1.1.3) was added. A higher yield was obtained in the ammonium salt with a longer alkyl chain on the cation, while no product was obtained in [Bu4N][HSO4] and [Bu4P][Ac]. A reaction mechanism has been proposed, which is supported by phase‐transfer catalysis and law of matching water affinity.
Gender Preference in the Sexual Attractions, Fantasies, and Relationships of Voluntarily Castrated Men
Authors: Handy Ariel B. , Jackowich Robyn A. , Wibowo Erik , Johnson Thomas Wayne , Wassersug Richard J.
Published: March 2016

Introduction

Some men seek castration outside a clear medical need. This study explored how their sexuality changed after castration.

Aim

To explore changes in preferred gender(s) of sexual attraction, fantasy, and relationships in voluntarily castrated men with or without gonadal hormone therapy.

Methods

A questionnaire was posted at http://www.eunuch.org that yielded data on men who had been voluntarily castrated physically (n = 198) or chemically (n = 96).

Main Outcome Measures

Respondents were asked to report retrospectively on their sexuality, including their sexual activity and which gender(s) they were sexually attracted to, fantasized about, or had sexual relations with 6 months to 1 year before and after castration.

Results

A substantial proportion of men remained sexually active after castration; 37% had sex at least several times per week. Most respondents did not report a change in preferred gender(s) of attraction (65%, n = 181), fantasies (62%, n = 169), or sexual relationships (66%, n = 163), although approximately 20% to 30% of respondents did report such changes and 8% to 11% became non-sexual after castration. Respondents who were attracted to and fantasized about “only men” or who had sexual relationship with “only women” before castration were the least likely to report a change subsequent to castration. Respondents who were taking neither supplemental testosterone nor estrogen were more likely to report (i) becoming attracted to no one, (ii) fantasizing about no one, and (iii) becoming sexually inactive.

Conclusion

Sexual changes in voluntarily castrated men vary and can be influenced by various factors including the use of supplemental testosterone or estrogen therapy.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the Male Genital Self-Image Scale in Iranian Men
Authors: Saffari Mohsen , Pakpour Amir H. , Burri Andrea
Published: March 2016

Introduction

Certain sexual health problems in men can be attributed to genital self-image. Therefore, a culturally adapted version of a Male Genital Self-Image Scale (MGSIS) could help health professionals understand this concept and its associated correlates.

Aim

To translate the original English version of the MGSIS into Persian and to assess the psychometric properties of this culturally adapted version (MGSIS-I) for use in Iranian men.

Methods

In total, 1,784 men were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Backward and forward translations of the MGSIS were used to produce the culturally adapted version. Reliability of the MGSIS-I was assessed using Cronbach α and intra-class correlation coefficients. Divergent and convergent validities were examined using Pearson correlation and known-group validity was assessed in subgroups of participants with different sociodemographic statuses. Factor validity of the scale was investigated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses.

Main Outcome Measures

Demographic information, the International Index of Erectile Function, the Body Appreciation Scale, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the MGSIS.

Results

Mean age of participants was 38.13 years (SD = 11.45) and all men were married. Cronbach α of the MGSIS-I was 0.89 and interclass correlation coefficients ranged from 0.70 to 0.94. Significant correlations were found between the MGSIS-I and the International Index of Erectile Function (P < .01), whereas correlation of the scale with non-similar scales was lower than with similar scale (confirming convergent and divergent validity). The scale could differentiate between subgroups in age, smoking status, and income (known-group validity). A single-factor solution that explained 70% variance of the scale was explored using exploratory factor analysis (confirming uni-dimensionality); confirmatory factor analysis indicated better fitness for the five-item version than the seven-item version of the MGSIS-I (root mean square error of approximation = 0.05, comparative fit index > 1.00 vs root mean square error of approximation = 0.10, comparative fit index > 0.97, respectively).

Conclusion

The MGSIS-I is a useful instrument to assess genital self-image in Iranian men, a concept that has been associated with sexual function. Further investigation is needed to identify the applicability of the scale in other cultures or populations.
The Asia-Pacific Flexible Dose Study of Dapoxetine and Patient Satisfaction in Premature Ejaculation Therapy: The PASSION Study
Authors: McMahon Chris , Lee Sung Won , Kim Sae Woong , Moon Du Geon , Kongkanand Apichat , Tantiwongse Kavirach
Published: March 2016

Introduction

Dapoxetine is a short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor for treatment of premature ejaculation (PE).

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapoxetine 30 and 60 mg as needed in Asia-Pacific men with PE.

Methods

The study was a prospective, 12-week, open-label study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of flexible-dose dapoxetine in men with PE diagnosed by a Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool score of at least 11, a self-estimated intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) no longer than 2 minutes, and an International Index of Erectile Function erectile function domain score of at least 21.

Main Outcome Measures

Percentage of subjects reporting their PE as at least “slightly better” using the Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGIC) question.

Results

Two hundred eighteen of 285 randomized subjects completed the study. The mean subject age was 45.9 years and 57.7% were Korean. Dosages 1 (30 mg), 2 (30 → 60 mg), and 3 (30 → 60 → 30 mg) were used in 141, 124, and 13 subjects, respectively. At study end, a PE CGIC rating of at least “slightly better” was reported by 77.3%, 92.8%, and 100% of subjects for dosages 1, 2, and 3, respectively (P = .49). At study end, a CGIC rating of “slightly better” was reported by 85.2% and 85.3% of subjects with lifelong PE and acquired PE, respectively (P = .50). At study end, a CGIC rating of “slightly better” was reported by 84.1% and 86.4% of subjects with an estimated baseline IELT no longer than and at least ≤1 minute, respectively (P = .16). The incidence of a CGIC rating of at least “slightly better” was lower in subjects reporting an adverse event of moderate or severe severity and in subjects who increased to and maintained a dapoxetine dose of 60 mg and higher in subjects older than 50 years and in subjects with a baseline estimated IELT of at least 1 minute.

Conclusion

In this study, flexible dosing of dapoxetine (30 and 60 mg) appeared effective in the treatment of PE.
Neonatal exposure to benzo[a]pyrene induces oxidative stress causing altered hippocampal cytomorphometry and behavior during early adolescence period of male Wistar rats
Authors: Patel Bhupesh , Das Saroj Kumar , Das Swagatika , Das Lipsa , Patri Manorama
Published: March 2016

Environmental neurotoxicants like benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) have been well documented regarding their potential to induce oxidative stress. However, neonatal exposure to B[a]P and its subsequent effect on anti‐oxidant defence system and hippocampal cytomorphometry leading to behavioral changes have not been fully elucidated. We investigated the effect of acute exposure of B[a]P on five days old male Wistar pups administered with single dose of B[a]P (0.2 μg/kg BW) through intracisternal mode. Control group was administered with vehicle i.e., DMSO and a separate group of rats without any treatment was taken as naive group. Behavioral analysis showed anxiolytic‐like behavior with significant increase in time spent in open arm in elevated plus maze. Further, significant reduction in fall off time during rotarod test showing B[a]P induced locomotor hyperactivity and impaired motor co‐ordination in adolescent rats. B[a]P induced behavioral changes were further associated with altered anti‐oxidant defence system involving significant reduction in the total ATPase, Na+ K+ ATPase, Mg2+ ATPase, GR and GPx activity with a significant elevation in the activity of catalase and GST as compared to naive and control groups. Cytomorphometry of hippocampus showed that the number of neurons and glia in B[a]P treated group were significantly reduced as compared to naive and control. Subsequent observation showed that the area and perimeter of hippocampus, hippocampal neurons and neuronal nucleus were significantly reduced in B[a]P treated group as compared to naive and control. The findings of the present study suggest that the alteration in hippocampal cytomorphometry and neuronal population associated with impaired antioxidant signaling and mood in B[a]P treated group could be an outcome of neuromorphological alteration leading to pyknotic cell death or impaired differential migration of neurons during early postnatal brain development.
Efficacy, safety, and acceptability of thermocoagulation for treatment of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia in a hospital setting in Brazil
Authors: Naud Paulo S.V. , Muwonge Richard , Passos Eduardo P. , Magno Valentino , Matos Jean , Sankaranarayanan Rengaswamy
Published: March 2016

Objective

To analyze the acceptability, safety, and effectiveness of thermocoagulation for the treatment of histologically proven cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2–3 (CIN2–3) lesions.

Methods

In a retrospective study, data were obtained for women treated for CIN2–3 lesions by thermocoagulation at the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil, between March 6, 2012, and October 29, 2013, and followed up after 1 year. The proportions of women with no evidence of disease, adverse effects, or complications were determined.

Results

Among 52 women included, 44 (85%) had no evidence of disease 1 year after thermocoagulation. The rate of no disease at follow‐up was similar for women treated for CIN2 (17/20 [85%]) and CIN3 (27/32 [84%]). No serious adverse effects or complications requiring hospitalization were observed during the follow‐up period.

Conclusion

Thermocoagulation is useful in the management of ectocervical CIN and should be integrated into public health services for management of cervical cancer.
The clinical application of laparoscope‐assisted peritoneal vaginoplasty for the treatment of congenital absence of vagina
Authors: Qin Chenglu , Luo Guangnan , Du Min , Liao Shi , Wang Chunping , Xu Keke , Tang Jie , Li Baoyan , Zhang Juanjuan , Pan Hongxin , Ball Tyler W. , Fang Yujiang
Published: March 2016

Objective

To evaluate the outcomes of laparoscope‐assisted peritoneal vaginoplasty for the treatment of congenital vaginal atresia.

Methods

A retrospective study enrolled patients diagnosed with congenital vaginal atresia who were treated with one of two different laparoscope‐assisted peritoneal vaginoplasty techniques (named Luohu‐one and Luohu‐two) between October 31, 2001 and December 31, 2014. Operative time, intraoperative bleeding volume, surgical difficulty, complications, and post‐procedure sexual satisfaction were reported.

Results

Data were collected for 620 patients. The Luohu‐one procedure was used in the treatment of 145 patients, while 475 patients were treated with the Luohu‐two procedure. In 5 (0.8%) patients, it was necessary to perform a sigmoid colon vaginoplasty. During surgery, 16 patients experienced a rectal injury, among whom, 9 patients experienced a rectal–vaginal fistula. Follow‐up data extending to 7 years were available for 285 patients. Of these 285 patients, 231 agreed to report details of their sexual experiences. In total, 222 (96.1%) patients reported being very satisfied with their vaginal conditions and sex life. The Luohu‐two procedure demonstrated shorter operative and recovery time, and reduced intraoperative bleeding. However, both procedures demonstrated satisfactory results.

Conclusion

Laparoscope‐assisted peritoneal vaginoplasty demonstrated good safety and effectiveness in the treatment of patients with congenital vaginal atresia.
Conventional versus fast track anaesthesia in an unselected group of patients undergoing revisional bariatric surgery
Authors: van Wezenbeek Martin R. , Pouwels Sjaak , Buise Marc P. , Smulders Johannes F. , Nienhuijs Simon W. , van Montfort Gust
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Fast track care has proven to be safe and effective in primary bariatric procedures. The number of more complex revisional procedures is expected to rise over the next years. The aim was to evaluate the potential benefits and safety of a fast-track protocol in an unselected group of patients undergoing Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (rRYGBP) as revision.

Method:

For this retrospective study, all patients undergoing rRYGBP between January 2005 and December 2013 were included and categorized between conventional care (CC) and fast track care (FT). Patient characteristics, operative details and intra- and early postoperative complications < 30 days were analysed.

Results:

A total of 407 patients were included for analysis. 303 patients (74.4%) received peri- and postoperative treatment according to the fast track protocol. Mean age of the study population was 44.0 ± 8.9 years; mean pre-primary procedure BMI was 45.7 ± 7.0 kg/m2. A total of 54 (13.3%) postoperative complications were registered (CC 19.2% vs FT 11.2%; p
= 0.038). Both operative time (CC 135.3 ± 42.6 minutes vs FT 79.3 ± 29.3 minutes; p < 0.001) as well as hospital stay (CC 5.1 ± 6.3 days vs FT 3.1 ± 5.3 days; p < 0.001) were significantly shorter in the FT group. A multivariate analysis on postoperative complications showed that fast track was not predictive for the occurrence of complications (OR = 0.853; 95% CI [0.403–1.804]; p
= 0.677).

Conclusion:

Fast track care appears to be safe and efficient for patients undergoing revisional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, but postoperative outcome may be highly dependent on surgical experience.

Highlights:
Evolution of the Paleozoic granitoid magmatism in the Kuznetsk Alatau: new geochemical and U–Pb (SHRIMP-II) isotope data
Authors: Vrublevskii V.V. , Kotel’nikov A.D. , Rudnev S.N. , Krupchatnikov V.I.
Published: March 2016

A U–Pb isotope analysis has revealed zircons, dated at ~ 510–490 and ~ 430–400 Ma, in granitoid intrusions on the eastern slope of the Kuznetsk Alatau Range (Batenev Ridge). This suggests two stages of the regional granitoid magmatism: Middle–Late Cambrian and Silurian–Early Devonian. The ages of two zircon grains from the rocks of the Tigertysh pluton are ~ 1.9 and ~ 2.6 Ga; they suggest the involvement of fragments of the Paleoproterozoic continental crust in magma generation. The granitoids, independently of their age, are mostly products of rocks of the calc-alkalic (K2O/Na2O ≈ 0.5–1.7) series. In the proportions of alumina, calcium, and alkalies most of them correspond to I-type granites (A/CNK≤1.1) with reduced Fe/(Fe + Mg) values and contents of HFSE, including REE (ΣREE ≈ 100–300 ppm). The trace-element patterns of the rocks point to the possible participation of both IAB and OIB in magma genesis. Presumably, the influence of the within-plate component increased as a result of the superposition of plume on accretion–collisional structures, and their melting might have favored the preservation of geochemical features of subduction magmatism in the granitoids. The isotopic inhomogeneity (εNd(T) = 2.3–4.8, (87Sr/86Sr)T ≈ 0.7036–0.7051) of the granitoid complexes suggests the heterogeneous composition of the material sources, which consisted of the matter of moderately depleted (PREMA) and enriched (EM) lithospheric mantle and crustal substrate, mixed in different proportions. Some products of the regional alkali-basic magmatism are coeval with the Cambrian granitoids of the Kuznetsk Alatau and are similar to them in isotope composition. This magmatism confirms the interaction of plume with the active continental margin at the Caledonian stage of evolution of the Central Asian Fold Belt.
New data on the structure and age of the terminal Permian strata in the South Verkhoyansk region (northeastern Asia)
Authors: Biakov A.S. , Zakharov Yu.D. , Horacek M. , Richoz S. , Kutygin R.V. , Ivanov Yu.Yu. , Kolesov E.V. , Konstantinov A.G. , Tuchkova M.I. , Mikhalitsyna T.I.
Published: March 2016

We present new data on the structure and age of the upper Permian strata in the basin of the Setorym River (tributary of the Vostochnaya Khandyga River) in the South Verkhoyansk region, represented by the Imtachan Formation and the lower part of the Nekuchan Formation. Based on the new findings of bivalve fossils from the Intomodesma costatum Zone, as well as on the study of carbon isotopes in the shells and carbon isotopes of the organic matter of the host mudstones, we have for the first time proved the completeness of the Permian section. The detailed description of the contact between the Imtachan and Nekuchan Formations bears evidence for a certain continuity of the lithologic characteristics of the sandstones. The sharp lithologic contact between the formations reflects not a regional sedimentation hiatus but a shift of depositional settings from the upper parts of a delta to the deep shelf, caused by forced marine transgression. It is concluded that there was no long-term hiatus between the accumulation of the Imtachan and Nekuchan Formations. Images of the most characteristic species of bivalves and crinoids from the Imtachan Formation are presented.
The Paleogene/Neogene boundary in continental deposits of the West Siberian Plain
Authors: Volkova V.S. , Kuz’mina O.B. , Gnibidenko Z.N. , Golovina A.G.
Published: March 2016

This paper presents palynological and paleomagnetic characteristics of three West Siberian horizons: Zhuravka (Upper Oligocene, Chattian), Abrosimovka, and Beshcheul (Lower–Middle Miocene, Aquitanian, Burdigalian, Langhian, and Serravallian). We consider the distribution of dinocysts of the genus Pseudokomewuia in the stratotype section of the Zhuravka Horizon (Zashchitino Village) and in the section of borehole 13 (Chelyuskintsev Village), which exposes the Turtas, Abrosimovka, and Beshcheul Formations. Similar compositions and structures of dinocyst assemblages and similar palynofloras in the Turtas and Abrosimovka Horizons, as well as the sedimentation environment and cyclic structure of lacustrine deposits, suggest that the Paleogene/Neogene boundary should be localized at the base of the Beshcheul Horizon. We propose to include the Abrosimovka Horizon into the Upper Oligocene (upper Chattian). The data are correlated with the regional paleomagnetic scale. These views should be reflected in a new regional stratigraphic chart for the Paleogene–Neogene deposits of the West Siberian Plain.
The impact of a specialized inpatient and day patient group programme on clinical outcome in older adolescents and young adults with mental illness
Authors: McCrossan P. , Ryan A. , Connellan M. , Power P.
Published: March 2016

Introduction

Effective transition from child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) to adult services is one of the main challenges currently facing child psychiatry today

The Young Adult 1Programme (YAP) based at St. Patrick’s University Hospital Dublin, is a group based day programme especially designed to meet the needs of younger people aged 18–25 and support them through this difficult period.

Aims

To examine the effectiveness of participation in YAP for young adults with mental illness. To determine whether participation in particular aspects of the programme prove more beneficial and what factors might be associated with outcome.

Method

All patients enrolled in YAP between 1 September 2011 and 31 August 2012 were included in the study. Each patient was assessed using the Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HONOS) and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) rating scale before beginning the programme and after discharge in order to evaluate improvement. The frequency of attendance at individual group sessions was recorded. Patient and illness variables were also recorded, for example demographics, diagnosis.

Results

A total of 101 service users were in enrolled in YAP during this 12-month period. Eight service users could not be used for analysis, as they did not have a complete data set, mostly due to failure to attend for discharge HONOS/GAF ratings

Using a paired samplet-test, there is a significant reduction in HONOS: Mean df=1.3,s.d.=1.09 (95% CI=1.08–1.53),p<0.001

Using a paired samplet-test, there is a significant increase in GAF: Mean df=9.25,s.d.=7.69 (95% CI=7.66–10.83),p<0.001

Improvements in HONOS and GAF scores are significantly correlated with better attendance at the programme (p<0.04, <0.00 respectively).

Conclusion

More attendance at YAP sessions correlates with better improvement in both HONOS and GAF rating scores.
NEBUCHADNEZZAR AND ALEXANDER IN THE EXCERPTA LATINA BARBARI
Authors: Garstad Benjamin
Published: March 2016

The late antique Christian chronicle preserved as theExcerpta Latina Barbaricontains a brief, but extraordinary notice on the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar; many of its unusual details can be understood in the contexts of traditional stories about Nebuchadnezzar and the interests of the work itself. The best clue to the meaning of the passage on Nebuchadnezzar is theExcerpta's closely parallel passage on Alexander the Great. In theExcerptaNebuchadnezzar and Alexander reflect one another and in a sense compete with one another. Many of the odd details of the notice on Nebuchadnezzar can be explained as directing the reader toward this parallelism. The parallelism itself seems to serve two purposes. First, to provide symmetry to theExcerpta's idiosyncratic account of world history in which Alexander liberates the world conquered by Nebuchadnezzar. And second, to show Nebuchadnezzar subtly outdoing Alexander, so that Alexander's encounter with the God of the Jews, as it is found in theExcerpta, can be provided with an implicit interpretation and characterization.
Developing, Managing, and Sustaining an Effective International Tobacco Dependence Treatment Partnership
Authors: Kemper Katherine E. , Hurt Richard D. , Hays J. Taylor , Glynn Thomas J. , Wysocki Karla
Published: March 2016

Introduction: Global Bridges, hosted at Mayo Clinic since 2010, is the only international network of healthcare professionals dedicated to tobacco dependence treatment. Globally, fewer resources have been dedicated to treatment than to other evidence-based tobacco control policies. The Global Bridges network seeks to aid in filling this gap in tobacco control.

Aims: This paper identifies ways to advance tobacco dependence treatment, as well as tobacco control, through efficient and effective use of a global health care provider network.

Methods: Observation and critical analysis of lessons learned, project outcomes to date, and network analysis.

Results/Findings: The initiative has built a strong global foundation, with training curricula developed and delivered in a number of countries, including low- and middle-income countries. While basic evaluation of content mastery and learner satisfaction has been conducted, more intensive evaluation and follow-up to confirm public health impact are essential needs. Finally, program analysis and application of management theory can be used in aiding future activities aimed at providing support for health care providers in the delivery of tobacco dependence treatment and in similar global public health endeavors.

Conclusions: The Global Bridges healthcare professional network, now in its sixth year, has developed training curricula and expanded evidence-based tobacco dependence education among healthcare professionals. Global Bridges comprises a unique and important component of the broader tobacco control community, and can play an integral role in furthering global tobacco control progress.
Dietary patterns of obese and normal-weight women of reproductive age in urban slum areas in Central Jakarta
Authors: Yulia  , Khusun Helda , Fahmida Umi
Published: March 2016

Developing countries including Indonesia imperatively require an understanding of factors leading to the emerging problem of obesity, especially within low socio-economic groups, whose dietary pattern may contribute to obesity. In this cross-sectional study, we compared the dietary patterns and food consumption of 103 obese and 104 normal-weight women of reproductive age (19–49 years) in urban slum areas in Central Jakarta. A single 24-h food recall was used to assess energy and macronutrient intakes (carbohydrate, protein and fat) and calculate energy density. A principal component analysis was used to define the dietary patterns from the FFQ. Obese women had significantly higher intakes of energy (8436·6 (sd2358·1)v. 7504·4 (sd1887·8) kJ (2016·4 (sd563·6)v. 1793·6 (sd451·2) kcal)), carbohydrate (263·9 (sd77·0)v. 237·6 (sd63·0) g) and fat (83·11 (sd31·3)v. 70·2 (sd26·1) g) compared with normal-weight women; however, their protein intake (59·4 (sd19·1)v. 55·9 (sd18·5) g) and energy density (8·911 (sd2·30)v. 8·58 (sd1·88) kJ/g (2·13 (sd0·55)v. 2·05 (sd0·45) kcal/g)) did not differ significantly. Two dietary patterns were revealed and subjectively named ‘more healthy’ and ‘less healthy’. The ‘less healthy’ pattern was characterised by the consumption of fried foods (snacks, soyabean and roots and tubers) and meat and poultry products, whereas the more healthy pattern was characterised by the consumption of seafood, vegetables, eggs, milk and milk products and non-fried snacks. Subjects with a high score for the more healthy pattern had a lower obesity risk compared with those with a low score. Thus, obesity is associated with high energy intake and unhealthy dietary patterns characterised by consumption of oils and fats through fried foods and snacks.
Olfactory event-related potentials: a new approach for the evaluation of olfaction in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients treated with chemo-radiotherapy
Authors: Galletti B , Santoro R , Mannella V K , Caminiti F , Bonanno L , De Salvo S , Cammaroto G , Galletti F
Published: March 2016

Objective:

Olfactory dysfunction is a possible side effect of chemo-radiotherapy performed in patients affected by nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Self-rating measurements and olfactory event-related potentials were used and compared in order to evaluate the impact of this treatment on the olfactory system.

Methods:

Nine patients underwent subjective evaluation of olfactory function (using visual analogue scales for olfactory symptoms and quality of life, and a six-item Hyposmia Rating Scale), and a quantitative and objective measurement (olfactory event-related potentials).

Results:

Spearman's rank correlation analyses highlighted significant relationships between the clinical scales and olfactory event-related potentials. Inter-group analyses showed significant differences in the latency and in the amplitude of olfactory event-related potentials between patients and controls.

Conclusion:

Taking into account the small sample size and the lack of pre-treatment assessment, olfactory event-related potentials seemed to allow a more objective diagnosis of unilateral and bilateral olfactory loss. Moreover, olfactory event-related potentials and subjective scales results were concordant.
Presence of an isoform of H+-pyrophosphatase located in the alveolar sacs of a scuticociliate parasite of turbot: physiological consequences
Authors: MALLO NATALIA , LAMAS JESÚS , DEFELIPE ANA-PAULA , DECASTRO MARIA-EUGENIA , SUEIRO ROSA-ANA , LEIRO JOSÉ-MANUEL
Published: March 2016

H+-pyrophosphatases (H+-PPases) are integral membrane proteins that couple pyrophosphate energy to an electrochemical gradient across biological membranes and promote the acidification of cellular compartments. Eukaryotic organisms, essentially plants and protozoan parasites, contain various types of H+-PPases associated with vacuoles, plasma membrane and acidic Ca+2storage organelles called acidocalcisomes. We used Lysotracker Red DND-99 staining to identify two acidic cellular compartments in trophozoites of the marine scuticociliate parasitePhilasterides dicentrarchi: the phagocytic vacuoles and the alveolar sacs. The membranes of these compartments also contain H+-PPase, which may promote acidification of these cell structures. We also demonstrated for the first time that theP. dicentrarchiH+-PPase has two isoforms: H+-PPase 1 and 2. Isoform 2, which is probably generated by splicing, is located in the membranes of the alveolar sacs and has an amino acid motif recognized by the H+-PPase-specific antibody PABHK. The amino acid sequences of different isolates of this ciliate are highly conserved. Gene and protein expression in this isoform are significantly regulated by variations in salinity, indicating a possible physiological role of this enzyme and the alveolar sacs in osmoregulation and salt tolerance inP. dicentrarchi.
Alpha proteobacteria of genusAnaplasma(Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae): Epidemiology and characteristics ofAnaplasmaspecies related to veterinary and public health importance
Authors: ATIF FARHAN AHMAD
Published: March 2016

TheAnaplasmaspecies are important globally distributed tick-transmitted bacteria of veterinary and public health importance. These pathogens, cause anaplasmosis in domestic and wild animal species including humans.Rhipicephalus, Ixodes, DermacentorandAmblyommagenera of ticks are the important vectors ofAnaplasma.Acute anaplasmosis is usually diagnosed upon blood smear examination followed by antibodies and nucleic acid detection. All age groups are susceptible but prevalence increases with age. Serological cross-reactivity is one of the important issues amongAnaplasmaspecies. They co-exist and concurrent infections occur in animals and ticks in same geographic area. These are closely related bacteria and share various common attributes which should be considered while developing vaccines and diagnostic assays. Movement of susceptible animals from non-endemic to endemic regions is the major risk factor of bovine/ovine anaplasmosis and tick-borne fever. Tetracyclines are currently available drugs for clearance of infection and treatment in humans and animals. Worldwide vaccine is not yet available. Identification, elimination of reservoirs, vector control (chemical and biological), endemic stability, habitat modification, rearing of tick resistant breeds, chemotherapy and tick vaccination are major control measures of animal anaplasmosis. Identification of reservoirs and minimizing the high-risk tick exposure activities are important control strategies for human granulocytic anaplasmosis.
Vivre à l’intersection du VIH et du vieillissement : quelles répercussions sur les liens sociaux significatifs?
Authors: Wallach Isabelle , Ducandas Xuân , Martel Michel , Thomas Réjean
Published: March 2016

This research examines obstacles faced by older people living with HIV in maintaining their significant social ties (family, friends) in the light of a double theoretical framework, inter-sectionality and the course of life. Favoring a qualitative methodology, this research is based on in-depth, semi-directed interviews with a diverse sample of 38 people living with HIV, aged 50-73 years. Analysis reveals that a significant proportion of participants have experienced ruptures or deterioration of close ties with intimates at the level of family or friends. The principal factors behind these difficulties are the past and present stigma associated with HIV and /or other social positions, long-term effects of HIV, issues related to aging and crosscutting effects of HIV and aging.
Connecting Socially Isolated Older Rural Adults with Older Volunteers through Expressive Arts
Authors: MacLeod Ann , Skinner Mark W. , Wilkinson Fay , Reid Heather
Published: March 2016

Utilisant une approche participative basée sur la recherche dans le domaine des arts, nous avons examiné un programme novateur de l’Ontario rural, Canada, conçu pour répondre à l’isolement social chez les personnes âgées. Les personnes âgées qui étaient socialement isolées ont été jumelées à des bénévoles formés; en dyades, les huit paires ont créées de l’art expressif chez elles au cours des dix visites à domicile. Utilisant une enquête thematique et narrative, nous avons analysé les expériences et les perceptions du programme du chef, des participants plus âgés, et des bénévoles plus âgés à travers leurs créations artistiques, les journaux hebdomadaires, les évaluations et le carnet d’opérations.

Les résultats révèlent une intervention réussie qui influencent positivement le bien-être des participants plus âgés et les bénévoles plus âgés, en particulier en ce qui concerne les relations, le développement personnel, et en la création du sens, ainsi que l’extension de l’impact de l’intervention au-delà de la durée du programme. Nous discutons aussi possibilités pour des programmes similaires pour la politique et permet des services sociaux positifs à l'isolement rural basés dans les communautés.