bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are inflammatory cells increased in painful human tendinopathy? A systematic review
Authors: Dean Benjamin John Floyd , Gettings Peter , Dakin Stephanie Georgina , Carr Andrew Jonathan
Published: December 2015

Background

The role of inflammation in tendinopathy has historically been a subject of significant controversy. Our primary aim was to determine whether inflammatory cell numbers were increased in painful human tendinopathy versus healthy control tendons. Our secondary aim was to assess whether the inflammatory cells had been linked with symptoms or disease stage.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the scientific literature using the PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines of the Medline database using specific search criteria. Only studies measuring inflammatory cells using specific markers in tissue from human patients with the clinical diagnosis of tendinopathy were included. Inclusion was agreed on by 2 independent researchers on review of abstracts or full-text using specific predetermined criteria. The search yielded 5 articles in total.

Results

There were increased numbers of macrophages (4 studies) and mast cells (3 studies) in tendinopathic versus healthy control tissues. One study demonstrated increased numbers of T cells in tendinopathic tissue versus healthy control tendons. There were reduced numbers of T cells (1 study), macrophages (2 studies) and mast cells (2 studies) in torn tendon versus intact tendinopathic tissue.

Conclusions

The existing evidence supports the hypothesis that increased numbers of inflammatory cells are present in pathological tendons. The lack of high-quality quantitative studies in this area demonstrates a clear need for future research to better understand the role of inflammation in tendinopathy.
Organisation and function of the primary motor cortex in chronic pain: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Wei-Ju , O'Connell Neil E , Burns Emma , Chipchase Lucy S , Liston Matthew B , Schabrun Siobhan M
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Primary motor cortical (M1) adaptation in the form of altered organisation and function is hypothesised to underpin motor dysfunction observed in chronic pain. The aim of this review is to assess the evidence for altered M1 organisation and function in chronic pain.

Methods and analysis

Systematic review and meta-analysis. We will search electronic databases with predetermined search terms to identify relevant studies and evaluate the studies for inclusion and risks of bias. Two independent reviewers will extract data. Any disagreement will be resolved through a third reviewer. Cross-sectional or prospective studies published in English before May 2015 that investigate M1 organisation and function in chronic pain will be included if they meet the eligibility criteria. Primary outcomes will include M1 cortical excitability, spatial cortical representation, the function of inhibitory and facilitatory intracortical networks, cortical reactivity and cortical glucose metabolism. Clinical measures such as pain and disability will be included where the correlation with the primary outcomes of M1 organisation and function were investigated in the included studies.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review does not require ethical approval. The results of this review will be submitted for peer-reviewed publication regardless of outcome and will be presented at relevant conferences.

Trial registration number

Our systematic review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; registration number CRD42015014823).
Identification of antithrombotic drugs related to total joint replacement using anonymised free-text notes: a search strategy in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink
Authors: Nielen Johannes TH , van den Bemt Bart J F , Boonen Annelies , Dagnelie Pieter C , Emans Pieter J , Veldhorst Nicole , Lalmohamed Arief , van Staa Tjeerd-Pieter , de Vries Frank
Published: December 2015

Objectives

We aimed to design and test a method to extract information on antithrombotic therapy from anonymised free-text notes in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD).

Setting

General practice database representative of the UK.

Participants

All patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR, n=25 898) or total knee replacement (TKR, n=22 231) between January 2008 and October 2012 were included. Antithrombotic drug use related to THR or TKR was identified using anonymised free text and prescription data.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Internal validity of our newly designed method was determined by calculating positive predictive values (PPVs) of hits for predefined keywords in a random sample of anonymised free-text notes. In order to determine potential detection bias, total joint replacement (TJR) patient characteristics were compared as per their status of exposure to antithrombotics.

Results

PPVs ranging between 97% and 99% for new oral anticoagulants (NOAC) or low-molecular weight heparins (LMWH) exposure related to TJR were obtained with our method. Our search strategy increased detection rates by 57%, yielding a total proportion of 18.5% of all THR and 18.6% of all TKR surgeries. Identified users of NOACs and LMWHs were largely similar with regards to age, sex, lifestyle, disease and drug history compared to patients without identified drug use.

Conclusions

We have developed a useful method to identify additional exposure to NOACs or LMWHs with TJR surgery.
Home oxygen therapy reduces risk of hospitalisation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a population-based retrospective cohort study, 2005–2012
Authors: Cho Kyoung Hee , Kim Young Sam , Nam Chung Mo , Kim Tae Hyun , Kim Sun Jung , Han Kyu-Tae , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: December 2015

Objective

This study evaluated the effect of home oxygen therapy (HOT) on hospital admissions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

Design and setting

Using nationwide health insurance claims from 2002–2012, we conducted a longitudinal population-based retrospective cohort study.

Participants

Individuals who were aged 40 years or above and newly diagnosed with COPD in 2005.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome was total number of hospitalisations during the study period. Participants were matched using HOT propensity scores and were stratified by respiratory impairment (grade 1: FEV1≤25% or PaO2≤55 mm Hg; grade 2: FEV1≤30% or PaO256–60 mm Hg; grade 3: FEV1≤40% or PaO261–65 mm Hg; ‘no grade’: FEV1or PaO2unknown), then a negative binomial regression analysis was performed for each group.

Results

Of the 36 761 COPD patients included in our study, 1330 (3.6%) received HOT. In a multivariate analysis of grade 1 patients performed before propensity score matching, the adjusted relative risk of hospitalisation for patients who did not receive HOT was 1.27 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.60). In a multivariate analysis of grade 1 patients performed after matching, the adjusted relative risk for patients who did not receive HOT was 1.65 (95% CI 1.25 to 2.18). In grade 2 or grade 3 patients, no statistical difference in hospital admission risk was detected. In the ‘no grade’ group of patients, HOT was associated with an increased risk of hospitalisation.

Conclusions

HOT reduces the risk of hospital admission in COPD patients with severe hypoxaemia. However, apart from these patients, HOT use is not associated with hospital admissions.
Vitamin D status and associated metabolic risk factors among North Korean refugees in South Korea: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kim Kyeong Jin , Kim Yoon Jung , Kim Sun Hwa , An Jee Hyun , Yoo Hye Jin , Kim Hee Young , Seo Ji A , Kim Sin Gon , Kim Nan Hee , Choi Kyung Mook , Baik Sei Hyun , Choi Dong Seop , Kim Nam Hoon
Published: December 2015

Objective

Vitamin D deficiency is now recognised as a common health problem associated with various chronic diseases; however, it has not been fully elucidated among the minority groups. Here, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its associated metabolic risk factors among North Korean refugees living in South Korea.

Design

Cross-sectional analysis from the longitudinal cohort, the North Korean refugee health in South Korea (NORNS) study.

Participants

A total of 386 North Korean refugees aged ≥30 years, who measured serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) level.

Results

The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D <20 ng/mL) was 87% and no participants had an adequate vitamin D level (25(OH)D ≥30 ng/mL). Underweight participants (body mass index (BMI) <18 kg/m2) had significantly lower 25(OH)D levels than individuals with normal BMI (≥18.5 and<23 kg/m2). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the lowest 25(OH)D level (<10 ng/mL) was significantly associated with metabolic syndrome (OR, 6.37, 95% CI 1.34 to 30.3), high triglyceride (OR, 6.71, 95% CI 1.75 to 25.7), and low high-density lipoprotein (OR, 5.98, 95% CI 1.54 to 23.2) compared with 25(OH)D levels ≥20 ng/mL after adjusting for age, sex, season, length of residence in South Korea, physical activity and BMI.

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency is very common among North Korean refugees in South Korea. Despite their lower BMI, vitamin D deficiency was associated with metabolic syndrome in this population.
Preventing obesity in infants: the Growing healthy feasibility trial protocol
Authors: Denney-Wilson Elizabeth , Laws Rachel , Russell Catherine Georgina , Ong Kok-leong , Taki Sarah , Elliot Roz , Azadi Leva , Lymer Sharyn , Taylor Rachael , Lynch John , Crawford David , Ball Kylie , Askew Deborah , Litterbach Eloise Kate , J Campbell Karen
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Early childhood is an important period for establishing behaviours that will affect weight gain and health across the life course. Early feeding choices, including breast and/or formula, timing of introduction of solids, physical activity and electronic media use among infants and young children are considered likely determinants of childhood obesity. Parents play a primary role in shaping these behaviours through parental modelling, feeding styles, and the food and physical activity environments provided. Children from low socio-economic backgrounds have higher rates of obesity, making early intervention particularly important. However, such families are often more difficult to reach and may be less likely to participate in traditional programs that support healthy behaviours. Parents across all socio-demographic groups frequently access primary health care (PHC) services, including nurses in community health services and general medical practices, providing unparalleled opportunity for engagement to influence family behaviours. One emerging and promising area that might maximise engagement at a low cost is the provision of support for healthy parenting through electronic media such as the Internet or smart phones. The Growing healthy study explores the feasibility of delivering such support via primary health care services.

Methods

This paper describes the Growing healthy study, a non-randomised quasi experimental study examining the feasibility of an intervention delivered via a smartphone app (or website) for parents living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas, for promoting infant feeding and parenting behaviours that promote healthy rather than excessive weight gain. Participants will be recruited via their primary health care practitioner and followed until their infant is 9 months old. Data will be collected via web-based questionnaires and the data collected inherently by the app itself.

Ethics and dissemination

This study received approval from the University of Technology Sydney Ethics committee and will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
Computational fluid dynamics modelling in cardiovascular medicine
Authors: Morris Paul D , Narracott Andrew , von Tengg-Kobligk Hendrik , Silva Soto Daniel Alejandro , Hsiao Sarah , Lungu Angela , Evans Paul , Bressloff Neil W , Lawford Patricia V , Hose D Rodney , Gunn Julian P
Published: December 2015

This paper reviews the methods, benefits and challenges associated with the adoption and translation of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling within cardiovascular medicine. CFD, a specialist area of mathematics and a branch of fluid mechanics, is used routinely in a diverse range of safety-critical engineering systems, which increasingly is being applied to the cardiovascular system. By facilitating rapid, economical, low-risk prototyping, CFD modelling has already revolutionised research and development of devices such as stents, valve prostheses, and ventricular assist devices. Combined with cardiovascular imaging, CFD simulation enables detailed characterisation of complex physiological pressure and flow fields and the computation of metrics which cannot be directly measured, for example, wall shear stress. CFD models are now being translated into clinical tools for physicians to use across the spectrum of coronary, valvular, congenital, myocardial and peripheral vascular diseases. CFD modelling is apposite for minimally-invasive patient assessment. Patient-specific (incorporating data unique to the individual) and multi-scale (combining models of different length- and time-scales) modelling enables individualised risk prediction and virtual treatment planning. This represents a significant departure from traditional dependence upon registry-based, population-averaged data. Model integration is progressively moving towards ‘digital patient’ or ‘virtual physiological human’ representations. When combined with population-scale numerical models, these models have the potential to reduce the cost, time and risk associated with clinical trials. The adoption of CFD modelling signals a new era in cardiovascular medicine. While potentially highly beneficial, a number of academic and commercial groups are addressing the associated methodological, regulatory, education- and service-related challenges.
Prognostic significance of PAK4 expression in gastric cancer
Authors: Kobayashi Kenta , Inokuchi Mikito , Takagi Yoko , Otsuki Sho , Fujimori Yoshitaka , Sato Yuya , Yanaka Yoshimitsu , Higuchi Kyoko , Aburatani Tomoki , Tomii Chiharu , Uetake Hiroyuki , Kojima Kazuyuki , Kawano Tatsuyuki
Published: December 2015

Aims

p-21 activated kinase (PAK) 4, part of the six PAK families, plays an important role in growth factor signalling, cytoskeletal remodelling, gene transcription, cell proliferation and oncogenic transformation. However, the clinical significance of PAK4 in gastric cancer has yet to be fully elucidated. PAK4 expression was evaluated, and the correlations of PAK4 expression with clinicopathological features and outcomes in gastric cancer were examined.

Methods

Gastric adenocarcinomas obtained from 217 patients who underwent gastrectomy were analysed. PAK4 expression was evaluated using immunohistochemical staining.

Results

PAK4 overexpression was found in 95 (43.8%) of 217 tumours . High PAK4 expression was significantly correlated with clinicopathological variables related to tumour progression, including depth of invasion, metastatic lymph nodes, pathological stage, distant metastasis or recurrent disease. High PAK4 expression was significantly associated with poorer disease-specific survival (DSS) (p<0.001) and relapse-free survival (RFS) (p<0.001). On multivariable analysis, PAK4 was an independent prognostic factor for DSS (HR 2.5 (95% CI 1.4 to 4.7), p=0.003) and RFS (HR 2.8 (95% CI 1.4 to 5.6), p=0.004). Even in stage II and III disease, PAK4 was an independent prognostic factor for RFS (HR 2.2 (95% CI 1.1 to 4.5), p=0.029).

Conclusions

PAK4 may become a new prognostic factor in patients with gastric cancer.
Prerace aspirin to protect susceptible runners from cardiac arrest during marathons: is opportunity knocking?
Authors: Siegel Arthur J
Published: December 2015

While endurance exercise such as marathon training is cardioprotective, an increasing frequency of race-related cardiac arrests and sudden death has been observed in middle-aged men since the year 2000. An evidence-based strategy for prevention is considered based on identifying atherothrombosis as the underlying cause in this susceptible subgroup. Review of all articles on PubMed related to acute cardiac events during marathons. Male gender and the marathon compared with the half-marathon were identified as significant risk factors for race-related cardiac arrests, which events increased 2.3-fold in the latter half of a 10-year prospective registry beginning in the year 2000. There were 50 cardiac arrests in runners who were 86% male with a mean age of 42 years. The main cause of sudden death was atherosclerotic heart disease in those over the age of 40 including myocardial infarction in 12 of 13 (93%) cases over the age of 45 as assessed retrospectively. Inflammatory biomarkers predicting acute cardiac events and hypercoagulability with in vivo platelet activation were demonstrated in same-aged asymptomatic middle-aged men during marathons. Excess cardiac morbidity and mortality in middle-aged men during marathons is mediated by atherothrombosis which may render non-obstructive coronary atherosclerotic plaques vulnerable to rupture. Prerace low-dose aspirin usage is prudent to protect susceptible runners from a high, if transient, risk for cardiac arrest during races as evidence-based to prevent first myocardial infarctions in same-aged healthy men.
The characteristics of genetically related Pseudomonas aeruginosa from diverse sources and their interaction with human cell lines
Authors: Streeter Klrissa , Neuman Christina , Thompson Jasmin , Hatje Eva , Katouli Mohammad
Published: December 2015

We investigated a collection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains from hospitalised patients (n = 20) and various environmental sources (n = 214) for their genetic relatedness; virulence properties; antibiotic resistance; and interaction with intestinal (Caco-2), renal (A-498), and lung (Calu-3) cell lines. Using RAPD–PCR, we found high diversity among the strains irrespective of their sources, with only 6 common (C) types containing strains from both a clinical and environmental source. Environmental strains belonging to these C-types showed greater adhesion to A-498 cells than did clinical strains (17 ± 13 bacteria/cell versus 13 ± 11 bacteria/cell; p < 0.001), whereas clinical strains showed significantly greater adhesion to Calu-3 and Caco-2 cells than did environmental strains (p < 0.001 for both). The virulence genes and antibiotic resistance profiles of the strains were similar; however, the prevalence of environmental strains carrying both exoS and exoU was significantly (p < 0.0368) higher than clinical strains. While all strains were resistant to ticarcillin and ticarcillin–clavulanic acid, resistance against aztreonam, gentamicin, amikacin, piperacillin, and ceftazidime varied among environmental and clinical strains. These results suggest that environmental strains of P. aeruginosa carry virulence properties similar to clinical strains, including adhesion to various human cell lines, with some strains showing a higher adhesion to specific cell lines, indicating they may have a better ability to cause infection in those sites under predisposing conditions of the host.
Reactivity of boron- and nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes functionalized by (Pt, Eu) atoms toward O2 and CO: A density functional study
Authors: Abdel Aal S.
Published: December 2015

The adsorption behavior and electronic properties of CO and O2 molecules at the supported Pt and Eu atoms on (5,5) armchair SWCNT have been systematically investigated within density functional theory (DFT). Fundamental aspects such as adsorption energy, natural bond orbital (NBO), charge transfer, frontier orbitals and the projected density of states (PDOS) are elucidated to analyze the adsorption properties of CO and O2 molecules. The results reveal that B- and N-doping CNTs can enhance the binding strength and catalytic activity of Pt (Eu) anchored on the doped-CNT, where boron-doping is more effective. The electronic structures of supported metal are strongly influenced by the presence of gases. After adsorption of CO and O2, the changes in binding energy, charge transfer and conductance may lead to the different response in the metal-doped CNT-based sensors. It is expected that these results could provide helpful information for the design and fabrication of the CO and O2 sensing devices. The high catalytic activity of Pt supported at doped-CNT toward the interaction with CO and O2 may be attributed to the electronic resonance particularly among Pt-5d, CO-2[Formula: see text]* and O2-2[Formula: see text]* antibonding orbitals. In contrast to the supported Eu at doped-CNT, the Eu atom becomes more positively charged, which leads to weaken the CO adsorption and promote the O2 adsorption, consequently enhancing the activity for CO oxidation and alleviating the CO poisoning of the europium catalysts. A notable orbital hybridization and electrostatic interaction between these two species in adsorption process being an evidence of strong interaction. The electronic structure of O2 adsorbed on Eu-doped CNT resembles that of O[Formula: see text], therefore the transferred charge weakens the O–O bonds and facilitates the dissociation process, which is the precondition for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR).
Complementary and Integrative Medicine at Mayo Clinic
Authors: Pang Ran , Wang Shihan , Tian Lin , Lee Mark C. , Do Alexander , Cutshall Susanne M. , Li Guangxi , Bauer Brent A. , Thomley Barbara S. , Chon Tony Y.
Published: December 2015

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has gained acceptance throughout the industrialized world. The present study was performed to provide information about the use of CAM at Mayo Clinic, an academic medical center in Northern Midwest of the US. We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of 2680 patients visiting the CAM program at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, between 1 July 2006 and 31 March 2011. Services provided included acupuncture, massage, integrative medical consultations and executive stress management training. Data including age, gender, race, diagnosis and the number of treatment/consultation sessions were collected to describe the use of CAM in our institute over the last several years. It was found that the mean (standard deviation) age of patient was 52.6 (15.5) years. Of those, 73.1% were female and 26.9% were male. Most patients were white. The number of patients referred to CAM increased significantly from 2007 to 2010. The three most common diagnostic categories were back pain (12.9%), psychological disorders (11.8%), and joint pain (9.6%). Back pain was the most common diagnosis for patients receiving acupuncture, and fibromyalgia was the most common for patients receiving massage therapy. Psychological disorders (i.e., stress) were the major diagnosis referred to both integrative medical consults and executive stress management training. These results suggest that the diseases related to pain and psychological disorders are the main fields of CAM use. It also shows the increasing trend of the use of CAM at an academic medical center in the US.
Resveratrol Suppresses Cytokine Production Linked to FcεRI-MAPK Activation in IgE-Antigen Complex-Exposed Basophilic Mast Cells and Mice
Authors: Han Seon-Young , Choi Yean-Jung , Kang Min-Kyung , Park Jung Han Yoon , Kang Young-Hee
Published: December 2015

A complicated interplay between resident mast cells and other recruited inflammatory cells contributes to the development and progression of allergic inflammation entailing the promotion of T helper 2 (Th2) cytokine responses. The current study examined whether resveratrol suppressed the production of inflammatory Th2 cytokines in cultured rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3 cells. Cells pre-treated with resveratrol nontoxic at 1–25[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M were sensitized with anti-dinitrophenyl (anti-DNP), and subsequently stimulated by dinitrophenyl–human serum albumin (DNP–HSA) antigen. Resveratrol dose-dependently diminished the secretion of interleukin (IL)-3, IL-4, IL-13 as well as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-[Formula: see text] by the antigen stimulation from sensitized cells. It was found that resveratrol mitigated the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, ERK, and JNK elevated in mast cells exposed to Fc epsilon receptor I (Fc[Formula: see text]RI)-mediated immunoglobulin E (IgE)-antigen complex. The Fc[Formula: see text]RI aggregation was highly enhanced on the surface of mast cells following the HSA stimulation, which was retarded by treatment with 1–25[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M resveratrol. The IgE-receptor engagement rapidly induced tyrosine phosphorylation of c-Src-related focal adhesion protein paxillin involved in the cytoskeleton rearrangement. The Fc[Formula: see text]RI-mediated rapid activation of c-Src and paxillin was attenuated in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the paxillin activation entailed p38 MAPK and ERK-responsive signaling, but the JNK activation was less involved. Consistently, oral administration of resveratrol reduced the tissue level of phosphorylated paxillin in the dorsal skin of DNP–HSA-challenged mice. The other tyrosine kinase Tyk2-STAT1 signaling was activated in the dorsal epidermis of antigen-exposed mice, which was associated with allergic inflammation. These results showed that resveratrol inhibited Th2 cytokines- and paxillin-linked allergic responses dependent upon MAPK signaling. Therefore, resveratrol may possess the therapeutic potential of targeting mast cells in preventing the development of allergic inflammation.
Comparison of Immunomodulatory and Anticancer Activities in Different Strains of Tremella fuciformis Berk
Authors: Han Chien-Kuo , Chiang Hsin-Chieh , Lin Chien-Yin , Tang Chih-Hsin , Lee Hsinyu , Huang Ding-Ding , Zeng Yu-Ru , Chuang Tsai-Ni , Huang Yuan-Li
Published: December 2015

Tremella fuciformis Berk (TF) is a common edible and medicinal mushroom, and has long been used in food and in Chinese medicine. It possesses anticancer, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidative, and neuroprotective abilities. Since their cultivation is a problem, TFs in Taiwan are primarily imported from China, which has a problem with pesticide residues. Thus, the question of whether the Taiwan cultivated TFs, T1, and T6 showed similar or even better results than TFs from China (CH) was assessed in the present study. The results of the physicochemical tests of these TFs showed that T1 extracted by hot water (T1H) has the highest concentration of polysaccharide; meanwhile, T6 extracted by cold water (T6C) showed the highest amount of protein. Regarding the immune modulatory effects of these TFs, hot water extracts of these TFs augmented significantly the inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS), interleukin (IL)-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-[Formula: see text] mRNA expression than those of cold water extracts. On the other hand, the cold water extracts of TFs, especially of T1C, obviously suppressed cancer cell survival better than those of hot water extracts. Interestingly, we found that hot water extracts of TFs may augment necrotic cell death, whereas, cold water extracts of TFs induce apoptosis. Furthermore, we also showed that these TFs activate caspase-3 cleavage, up regulate the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and decrease MMP-9 expressions in PC-3 cells. Taken together, our results indicated that T1 and T6 strains of TFs showed the similar immune modulatory and anticancer abilities were better than the CH strain of TFs.
Enhancement of non-Markovianity by interference of two reservoirs
Authors: Zhang X. Y. , Huang X. L. , Yi X. X.
Published: December 2015

We study the effect of the interference between two independent non-Markovian reservoirs on the non-Markovianity of a two-level system. We find that the interference can enhance the non-Markovianity of the system. The additive master equation (ME) is invalid even if only one of the two reservoirs is non-Markovian, while it is a good approximation when all reservoirs are Markovian. We also derive the two states uniqueness for a two-level system coupled to structured reservoirs which maximize the measure of non-Markovianity defined by Breuer et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 103 (2009) 210401].
ENTREPRENEURIAL NETWORKS AND GROWTH IN FEMALE-OWNED BUSINESSES: EVIDENCE FROM SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES IN ERITREA
Authors: DESTA ISAAC , TEDLA ABEL , ZEROM DAWIT
Published: December 2015

This study examines the role of entrepreneurial network strength (strong vs. weak ties) on growth of female-owned businesses. Primary data were collected from 356 small- and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) located in four of the six administrative regions of Eritrea. Our main finding indicates that weak entrepreneurial networks composed of cooperatives and business firms have the strongest positive relationship with growth.
On deleted diagonal acts of completely (0-) simple semigroups
Authors: Nouri Leila , Golchin Akbar , Mohammadzadeh Hossein
Published: December 2015

If [Formula: see text] is a semigroup without identity, then the deleted diagonal act of [Formula: see text] is the right [Formula: see text]-act [Formula: see text]. In [S. Bulman-Fleming and A. Gilmour, Flatness properties of diagonal acts over monoids, Semigroup Forum 79 (2009) 298–314] the authors answered the question of when [Formula: see text] is flat, satisfies Condition [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] for a completely [Formula: see text] simple semigroup (always represented here in regular Rees matrix form). In this paper we answer similar question for some other properties. There are also some results that can arise.
List 2-distance coloring of planar graphs without short cycles
Authors: Bu Yuehua , Shang Chunhui
Published: December 2015

A 2-distance coloring of [Formula: see text] is a function [Formula: see text]: [Formula: see text], such that for every two distinct vertices [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text]. The 2-distance chromatic number of [Formula: see text] is the least integer [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] has a [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-distance coloring, denoted by [Formula: see text]. Similarly, the list 2-distance chromatic number of [Formula: see text] is denoted by [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we proved that: (1) for every planar graph with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]; (2) for every planar graph with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text].
Two-Dimensional Layered Materials-Based Spintronics
Authors: Su Guohui , Wu Xing , Tong Wenqi , Duan Chungang
Published: December 2015

The recent emergence of two-dimensional (2D) layered materials — graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides — opens a new avenue for exploring the internal quantum degrees of freedom of electrons and their potential for new electronics. Here, we provide a brief review of experimental achievements concerning electrical spin injection, spin transport, graphene nanoribbons spintronics and transition metal dichalcogenides spin and pseudospins. Future research in 2D layered materials spintronics will need to address the development of applications such as spin transistors and spin logic devices, as well as exotic physical properties including pseudospins-valley phenomena in graphene and other 2D materials.
Venous return and clinical hemodynamics: how the body works during acute hemorrhage
Authors: Shen Tao , Baker Keith
Published: December 2015

Venous return is a major determinant of cardiac output. Adjustments within the venous system are critical for maintaining venous pressure during loss in circulating volume. This article reviews two factors that are thought to enable the venous system to compensate during acute hemorrhage: 1) changes in venous elastance and 2) mobilization of unstressed blood volume into stressed blood volume. We show that mobilization of unstressed blood volume is the predominant and more effective mechanism in preserving venous pressure. Preservation of mean circulatory filling pressure helps sustain venous return and thus cardiac output during significant hemorrhage.
Self-testing produces superior recall of both familiar and unfamiliar muscle information
Authors: Dobson John L. , Linderholm Tracy , Yarbrough Mary Beth
Published: December 2015

Dozens of studies have found learning strategies based on the “testing effect” promote greater recall than those that rely solely on reading; however, the advantages of testing are often only observed after a delay (e.g., 2–7 days later). In contrast, our research, which has focused on kinesiology students learning kinesiology information that is generally familiar to them, has consistently demonstrated that testing-based strategies produce greater recall both immediately and after a delay. In an attempt to understand the discrepancies in the literature, the purpose of the present study was to determine if the time-related advantages of a testing-based learning strategy vary with one's familiarity with the to-be-learned information. Participants used both read-only and testing-based strategies to repeatedly study three different sets of information: 1) previously studied human muscle information (familiar information), 2) a mix of previously studied and previously unstudied human muscle information (mixed information), and 3) previously unstudied muscle information that is unique to sharks (unfamiliar information). Learning was evaluated via free recall assessments administered immediately after studying and again after a 1-wk delay and a 3-wk delay. Across those three assessments, the read-only strategy resulted in mean scores of 29.26 ± 1.43, 15.17 ± 1.29, and 5.33 ± 0.77 for the familiar, mixed, and unfamiliar information, respectively, whereas the testing-based strategy produced scores of 34.57 ± 1.58, 16.90 ± 1.31, and 8.33 ± 0.95, respectively. The results indicate that the testing-based strategy produced greater recall immediately and up through the 3-wk delay regardless of the participants' level of familiarity with the muscle information.
Correlation of self-assessment with attendance in an evidence-based medicine course
Authors: Ramirez Beatriz U.
Published: December 2015

In previous studies, correlations between attendance and grades in lectures have given variable results and, when statistically significant, the correlation has been weak. In some studies, a sex effect has been reported. Lectures are a teacher-centered learning activity. Therefore, it appeared interesting to evaluate if a stronger correlation between attendance and grades would occur in a face-to-face “evidence-based medicine” course with few lectures and more time dedicated to active learning methods. Small-group work and peer learning were used to foster deep learning and to engage students in their own learning process. Most of the time, students worked in small groups solving contextualized problems and critically analyzing the quality of published medical literature. Peer learning was also developed in collaborative evaluations, and constant feedback was provided. Therefore, it was hypothesized that high attenders would develop a higher self-perception of learning and obtain higher marks than low attenders. Student self-perceptions of their capacity to apply evidence-based medicine were measured by the application of an online self-assessment survey, and objective learning was measured as the grades obtained in a final accumulative individual test. It was found that male students obtained higher grades and were more confident in their achievements than their female peers, despite male and female student attendance being similar. In addition, attendance was correlated with the perceived capacity to apply evidence-based medicine only in male students and was not correlated with academic outcome.
Matters of taste: bridging molecular physiology and the humanities
Authors: Rangachari P. K. , Rangachari Usha
Published: December 2015

Taste perception was the focus of an undergraduate course in the health sciences that bridged the sciences and humanities. A problem-based learning approach was used to study the biological issues, whereas the cultural transmutations of these molecular mechanisms were explored using a variety of resources (novels, cookbooks, and films). Multiple evaluation procedures were used: problem summaries and problem-solving exercises (tripartite problem-solving exercise) for the problem-based learning component and group tasks and individual exercises for the cultural issues. Self-selected groups chose specific tasks from a prescribed list of options (setting up a journal in molecular gastronomy, developing an electronic tongue, designing a restaurant for synesthetes, organizing a farmers' market, marketing a culinary tour, framing hedonic scales, exploring changing tastes through works of art or recipe books, and crafting beers for space travel). Individual tasks were selected from a menu of options (book reviews, film reviews, conversations, creative writing, and oral exams). A few guest lecturers (wine making, cultural anthropology, film analysis, and nutritional epidemiology) added more flavor. The course was rated highly for its learning value (8.5 ± 1.2, n = 62) and helped students relate biological mechanisms to cultural issues (9.0 ± 0.9, n = 62).
Taking nanomedicine teaching into practice with atomic force microscopy and force spectroscopy
Authors: Carvalho Filomena A. , Freitas Teresa , Santos Nuno C.
Published: December 2015

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a useful and powerful tool to study molecular interactions applied to nanomedicine. The aim of the present study was to implement a hands-on atomic AFM course for graduated biosciences and medical students. The course comprises two distinct practical sessions, where students get in touch with the use of an atomic force microscope by performing AFM scanning images of human blood cells and force spectroscopy measurements of the fibrinogen-platelet interaction. Since the beginning of this course, in 2008, the overall rating by the students was 4.7 (out of 5), meaning a good to excellent evaluation. Students were very enthusiastic and produced high-quality AFM images and force spectroscopy data. The implementation of the hands-on AFM course was a success, giving to the students the opportunity of contact with a technique that has a wide variety of applications on the nanomedicine field. In the near future, nanomedicine will have remarkable implications in medicine regarding the definition, diagnosis, and treatment of different diseases. AFM enables students to observe single molecule interactions, enabling the understanding of molecular mechanisms of different physiological and pathological processes at the nanoscale level. Therefore, the introduction of nanomedicine courses in bioscience and medical school curricula is essential.
PowerPoint presentation in learning physiology by undergraduates with different learning styles
Authors: Ankad Roopa B. , GV Shashikala , Herur Anita , R Manjula , Chinagudi Surekharani , Patil Shailaja
Published: December 2015

PowerPoint presentations (PPTs) have become routine in medical colleges because of their flexible and varied presentation capabilities. Research indicates that students prefer PPTs over the chalk-and-talk method, and there is a lot of debate over advantages and disadvantages of PPTs. However, there is no clear evidence that PPTs improve student learning/performance. Furthermore, there are a variety of learning styles with sex differences in classrooms. It is the responsibility of teacher/facilitator and student to be aware of learning style preferences to improve learning. The present study asked the following research question: do PPTs equally affect the learning of students with different learning styles in a mixed sex classroom? After we assessed students' predominant learning style according to the sensory modality that one most prefers to use when learning, a test was conducted before and after a PPT to assess student performance. The results were analyzed using Student's t-test and ANOVA with a Bonferroni post hoc test. A z-test showed no sex differences in preferred learning styles. There was significant increase in posttest performance compared with that of the pretest in all types of learners of both sexes. There was also a nonsignificant relationship among sex, learning style, and performance after the PPT. A PPT is equally effective for students with different learning style preferences and supports mixed sex classrooms.
Two-compartment model as a teaching tool for cholesterol homeostasis
Authors: Wrona Artur , Balbus Joanna , Hrydziuszko Olga , Kubica Krystian
Published: December 2015

Cholesterol is a vital structural and functional molecule in the human body that is only slightly soluble in water and therefore does not easily travels by itself in the bloodstream. To enable cholesterol's targeted delivery to cells and tissues, it is encapsulated by different fractions of lipoproteins, complex particles containing both proteins and lipids. Maintaining cholesterol homeostasis is a highly regulated process with multiple factors acting at both molecular and tissue levels. Furthermore, to regulate the circulatory transport of cholesterol in lipoproteins, the amount of cholesterol present depends on and is controlled by cholesterol dietary intake, de novo synthesis, usage, and excretion; abnormal and/or unbalanced cholesterol levels have been shown to lead to severe outcomes, e.g., cardiovascular diseases. To investigate cholesterol transport in the circulatory system, we have previously developed a two-compartment mathematical model. Here, we show how this model can be used as a teaching tool for cholesterol homeostasis. Using the model and a hands-on approach, students can familiarize themselves with the basic components and mechanisms behind balanced cholesterol circulatory transport as well as investigate the consequences of and countermeasures to abnormal cholesterol levels. Among others, various treatments of high blood cholesterol levels can be simulated, e.g., with commonly prescribed de novo cholesterol synthesis inhibitors.
Observing and understanding arterial and venous circulation differences in a physiology laboratory activity
Authors: Altermann Caroline , Gonçalves Rithiele , Lara Marcus Vinícius S. , Neves Ben-Hur S. , Mello-Carpes Pâmela B.
Published: December 2015

The purpose of the present article is to describe three simple practical experiments that aim to observe and discuss the anatomic and physiological functions and differences between arteries and veins as well as the alterations observed in skin blood flow in different situations. For this activity, students were divided in small groups. In each group, a volunteer is recruited for each experiment. The experiments only require a sphygmomanometer, rubber bands, and a clock and allow students to develop a hypothesis to explain the different responses to the interruption of arterial and venous blood flow. At the end, students prepare a short report, and the results are discussed. This activity allows students to perceive the presence of physiology in their daily lives and helps them to understand the concepts related to the cardiovascular system and hemodynamics.
Administration of Panobinostat Is Associated with Increased IL‐17A mRNA in the Intestinal Epithelium of HIV‐1 Patients
Authors: Bjerg Christensen Ane , Dige Anders , Vad-Nielsen Johan , Brinkmann Christel R. , Bendix Mia , Østergaard Lars , Tolstrup Martin , Søgaard Ole S. , Rasmussen Thomas A. , Randel Nyengaard Jens , Agnholt Jørgen , Denton Paul W.
Published: December 2015

Intestinal CD4+ T cell depletion is rapid and profound during early HIV‐1 infection. This leads to a compromised mucosal barrier that prompts chronic systemic inflammation. The preferential loss of intestinal T helper 17 (Th17) cells in HIV‐1 disease is a driver of the damage within the mucosal barrier and of disease progression. Thus, understanding the effects of new therapeutic strategies in the intestines has high priority. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (e.g., panobinostat) are actively under investigation as potential latency reversing agents in HIV eradication studies. These drugs have broad effects that go beyond reactivating virus, including modulation of immune pathways. We examined colonic biopsies from ART suppressed HIV‐1 infected individuals (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01680094) for the effects of panobinostat on intestinal T cell activation and on inflammatory cytokine production. We compared biopsy samples that were collected before and during oral panobinostat treatment and observed that panobinostat had a clear biological impact in this anatomical compartment. Specifically, we observed a decrease in CD69+ intestinal lamina propria T cell frequency and increased IL‐17A mRNA expression in the intestinal epithelium. These results suggest that panobinostat therapy may influence the restoration of mucosal barrier function in these patients.
Gastric Glomus Tumor: A Rare Cause of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Handa Yoshinori , Kano Mikihiro , Kaneko Mayumi , Hirabayashi Naoki
Published: December 2015

A 24-year-old woman was referred to our department because of melena. These symptoms combined with severe anemia prompted us to perform an emergency upper endoscopy, which showed bleeding from an ulcerated 30 mm submucosal tumor in the gastric antrum. A computed tomography scan revealed a homogeneously enhanced mass, and endoscopic ultrasonography identified a well-demarcated mass in the third and fourth layers of the gastric wall. Because analysis of the possible medical causes remained inconclusive and the risk of rebleeding, laparoscopy-assisted gastric wedge resection was performed after administration of 10 units of red cell concentrate. Histological and immunohistological analysis revealed the tumor to be a gastric glomus tumor. Gastric submucosal tumors remain challenging to diagnose preoperatively as they show a variety of radiologic and clinicopathologic features and are associated with the risk of bleeding upon biopsy, as is indicated in the guidelines for gastric submucosal tumors. Gastric glomus tumors characteristically present with exsanguinating gastrointestinal hemorrhaging that often requires blood transfusion. Additionally, gastric submucosal tumors typically occur in elderly patients; however, this case involved a young patient who was 24 years old. Here, we describe this case in order to identify features that may aid in early differentiation of gastric submucosal tumors.
Culture NegativeListeria monocytogenesMeningitis Resulting in Hydrocephalus and Severe Neurological Sequelae in a Previously Healthy Immunocompetent Man with Penicillin Allergy
Authors: Gaini Shahin , Karlsen Gunn Hege , Nandy Anirban , Madsen Heidi , Christiansen Debes Hammershaimb , á Borg Sanna
Published: December 2015

A previously healthy 74-year-old Caucasian man with penicillin allergy was admitted with evolving headache, confusion, fever, and neck stiffness. Treatment for bacterial meningitis with dexamethasone and monotherapy ceftriaxone was started. The cerebrospinal fluid showed negative microscopy for bacteria, no bacterial growth, and negative polymerase chain reaction for bacterial DNA. The patient developed hydrocephalus on a second CT scan of the brain on the 5th day of admission. An external ventricular catheter was inserted andListeria monocytogenesgrew in the cerebrospinal fluid from the catheter. The patient had severe neurological sequelae. This case report emphasises the importance of covering empirically forListeria monocytogenesin all patients with penicillin allergy with suspected bacterial meningitis. The case also shows that it is possible to have significant infection and inflammation even with negative microscopy, negative cultures, and negative broad range polymerase chain reaction in cases ofListeriameningitis. Follow-up spinal taps can be necessary to detect the presence ofListeria monocytogenes.