bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal Trends in Quality of Care Among Recipients of Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators
Authors: Dodson John A. , Lampert Rachel , Wang Yongfei , Hammill Stephen C. , Varosy Paul , Curtis Jeptha P.
Published: November 2013

Background—

The ICD Registry was established in 2006 in part to measure quality of care in patients undergoing implantation of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs); however, whether outcomes have improved since initiation of the registry is unknown. Our objective was to examine changes over time in 3 quality metrics available from the registry.

Methods and Results—

We performed an observational study of 367 153 patients who received new ICD implants from April 2006 to March 2010. Three quality metrics were selected: Adverse events (in-hospital complications or mortality), optimal medical therapy (OMT), and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). OMT was defined as prescription of β-blocker and either angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker in eligible patients. CRT eligibility was determined by QRS ≥120 ms, left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35%, and New York Heart Association class III/IV. Observation periods were divided into four 12-month intervals. We analyzed changes over time and used hierarchical logistic regression to adjust for potential confounders. Adverse events decreased over time (3.7% to 2.8%,
P
<0.001). Among eligible patients, rates of OMT and CRT increased over time (OMT: 69.0% to 74.3%,
P
<0.001; CRT: 80.5% to 84.2%,
P
<0.001). After adjustment for potential confounders, patients were significantly less likely to experience adverse events in year 4 than in year 1 (odds ratio, 0.75; 95% confidence interval, 0.71–0.79) and significantly more likely to receive OMT (odds ratio, 1.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.26–1.32) and CRT (odds ratio, 1.42; 95% confidence interval, 1.35–1.49).

Conclusions—

Since initiation of the ICD Registry, adverse events have been decreasing, and rates of OMT and CRT among eligible patients have been increasing, although there is still significant room for improvement.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Dyslipidemia Patterns
Authors: Frank Ariel T.H. , Zhao Beinan , Jose Powell O. , Azar Kristen M.J. , Fortmann Stephen P. , Palaniappan Latha P.
Published: November 2013

Background—

No studies have comprehensively examined the prevalence of dyslipidemia, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, among diverse racial/ethnic minority groups. The primary aim of this study was to identify racial/ethnic differences in dyslipidemia among minorities including Asian Americans (Asian Indian, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, or Vietnamese), Mexican Americans, and blacks compared with non-Hispanic whites.

Methods and Results—

Using a 3-year cross section (2008–2011), we identified 169 430 active primary care patients (35 years or older) from an outpatient healthcare organization in northern California. Age-standardized prevalence rates were calculated for 3 dyslipidemia subtypes: high triglycerides (fasting laboratory value ≥150 mg/dL), low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (fasting laboratory value <40 mg/dL [men] and <50 mg/dL [women]), and high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (fasting laboratory value ≥130 mg/dL or taking low-density lipoprotein–lowering agents). Odds ratios were calculated by multivariable logistic regression, with adjustment for patient characteristics (age, measured body mass index, smoking). Compared with non-Hispanic whites, every minority subgroup had an increased prevalence of high triglycerides except blacks. Most minority groups had an increased prevalence of low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, except for Japanese and blacks. The prevalence of high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was increased among Asian Indians, Filipinos, Japanese, and Vietnamese compared with non-Hispanic whites.

Conclusions—

Minority groups, except for blacks, were more likely to have high triglyceride/low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol dyslipidemia. Further research is needed to determine how racial/ethnic differences in dyslipidemia affect racial/ethnic differences in cardiovascular disease rates.
Pattern Not Volume of Bleeding Predicts Angiographic Vasospasm in Nonaneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Raya Amanda , Zipfel Gregory J. , Diringer Michael N. , Dacey Ralph G. , Derdeyn Colin P. , Rich Keith M. , Chicoine Michael R. , Dhar Rajat
Published: November 2013

Background and Purpose—

Spontaneous idiopathic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) with a perimesencephalic bleeding pattern is usually associated with a benign course, whereas a diffuse bleeding pattern has been associated with a higher risk of vasospasm and disability. We evaluated whether volume of bleeding explains this disparity.

Methods—

Pattern and amount of bleeding (by Hijdra and intraventricular hemorrhage scores) were assessed in 89 patients with nonaneurysmal SAH. Outcomes included angiographic vasospasm, delayed cerebral ischemia, and functional outcome at 1 year.

Results—

Diffuse bleeding was associated with significantly higher Hijdra and intraventricular hemorrhage scores than perimesencephalic SAH,
P
≤0.003. Angiographic vasospasm was more likely in diffuse versus perimesencephalic SAH (45% versus 27%; odds ratio, 2.9;
P
=0.08), but adjustment for greater blood burden only partially attenuated this trend (adjusted odds ratio, 2.2; 95% confidence interval, 0.69–7.2;
P
=0.18); delayed cerebral ischemia was only seen in those with diffuse bleeding. Patients with diffuse bleeding were less likely to be discharged home (68% versus 90%;
P
=0.01) and tended to have more residual disability (modified Rankin scale, 3–6; 20% versus 6%;
P
=0.18).

Conclusions—

Nonaneurysmal SAH can still result in vasospasm and residual disability, especially in those with diffuse bleeding. This disparity is only partially accounted for by greater cisternal or intraventricular blood, suggesting that the mechanism and distribution of bleeding may be as important as the amount of hemorrhage in patients with idiopathic SAH.
Sensing Nanotechnologies through the Arts: Seeing and Making on the Surface of Things
Authors: Casini Silvia
Published: November 2013

The author assesses the role played by the surface in selected nanoscience and nanotechnology (N&N) practices by examining the interaction between surfaces and their viewers. In N&N, issues of scale and perception challenge those involved in science-art projects, forcing them to engage with nano-objects and surfaces by using either highly specialized instruments or metaphors. The most interesting examples of nano-based artworks give the audience the opportunity to interact with N&N through haptic sensing.
A Viewpoint on the Computing-Art Dialogue: The Classification of Interactive Digital Artworks
Authors: Nardelli Enrico
Published: November 2013

The author provides a viewpoint on the dialogue between computing and art by describing a framework for classification of Interactive Digital Artworks: information technology systems in which spectators are involved in the production of the artistic output. The author bases his approach on the input-process-output view of information systems and relates it to the “Computing as a Science” viewpoint. The framework is validated by classifying 33 interactive digital artworks presented at various international exhibitions.
Mimetic Inquiry: Ethnography, Creative Analysis, and Digital Tools
Authors: Fenn John
Published: November 2013

Over the past three years, the author has pursued a method for developing interpretive exhibit materials that synthesizes ethnographic approaches, critical analysis, and creative practice. The term “mimetic inquiry” is used to describe this method, drawing on articulations of mimesis as a “thematic concept” that tracks through the history of aesthetics as a process of representation-with-transformation. The author also discusses the genesis and goals of mimetic inquiry.
Three new species of Kerria (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Tachardiidae) from India
Authors: AHMAD AYASHAA , RAMAMURTHY V. V. , SHARMA K. K. , MOHANASUNDARAM A. , VIDYARTHI A. S. , RAMANI R.
Published: November 2013

Three new species of Kerria Targioni-Tozzetti from India, namely Kerria pennyae Ahmad & Ramamurthy sp. nov. on Schleichera oleosa from Orissa, Kerria dubeyi Ahmad & Ramamurthy sp. nov. on Ficus bengalensis from Bangalore and Kerria varshneyi Ahmad & Ramamurthy sp. nov. on Ziziphus mauritiana from Punjab are described and illustrated, and a key is provided to species of Kerria known from India.
Synonymy, new species and new combinations in the leafhopper genus Matsumurina Dworakowska (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae: Erythroneurini)
Authors: CAO YANGHUI , YANG MEIXIA , ZHANG YALIN
Published: November 2013

The leafhopper genus Takama Dworakowska & Viraktamath, 1975 is considered a junior synonym of Matsumurina Dworakowska, 1972, with seven known species all transferred to the latter. Another new combination is proposed: Matsumurina macra (Kuoh, 1982) n. comb. Seven additional species: Matsumurina abbreviata, M. angusta, M. furcata, M. longa, M. longissima, M. qini and M. serriformis spp. nov. are newly described and illustrated. A key for identification of adult males of Matsumurina is provided.
A new species of the genus Interphasma Chen & He, 2008
(Phasmida: Clitumninae: Medaurini) from Sichuan, China
Authors: HO GEORGE WAICHUN , SHI FUMING
Published: November 2013

Chen and He erected the genus Interphasma in 2008 (Chen & He, 2008). Thirteen species are recognized in this Chinese endemic genus which is distributed in eastern to south-western China (Chen & He, 2008; Chen & Zhang, 2008; Xu et al., 2010). In this paper, a new species, I. lizipingense sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Sichuan, China. A key to the species of the genus is given. The types are deposited in the Museum of Hebei University (HBU) and Hong Kong Entomological Society (HKEM). Full measurements are given to all the types in millimeter (mm.).
Baltidrilus nom. nov., a substitute name for the genus Heterochaeta Claparède, 1863 (Annelida, Clitellata, Tubificidae) non Heterochaeta Westwood, 1843 (Insecta, Mantodea, Mantidae)
Authors: TIMM TARMO
Published: November 2013

The annelid genus Heterochaeta, with the single species H. costata, was first described from the marine littoral near Cherbourg, Normandy in France, by Claparède (1863). Although sexually immature, the worms can obviously be distinguished from all other marine tubificids by the peculiar palmate shape of the dorsal chaetae (erroneously interpreted as bowl-like by Claparède) in segments V–XIII while all other chaetae are bifid. The presence of two widely divergent kinds of short chaetae (long hair-like chaetae are lacking in this species) is reflected in the genus name Heterochaeta. Palmate dorsal chaetae with a broad comb-like ("costate") distal end occur in a few freshwater tubificids (Brinkhurst 1971). Among marine tubificids, only Tubifex thompsoni Southern, 1909 possesses a set of chaetae identical to that in H. costata but combined with strangely different (aberrant?) male ducts and penial chaetae; that species was never found after its original description by Southern (1909) and was therefore regarded as a synonym of the latter taxon by the more recent authors (Brinkhurst 1971). The palmate portion of chaetae in H. costata is actually not bowl-like but only slightly concave, spoon-like. Furthermore, some bifid dorsal chaetae in the neighbouring segments can display short intermediate denticles, being thus pectinate. These characters were established by Benham (1891) who also described the reproductive organs of this species.
Improvements in LICOM2. Part II: Arctic Circulation
Authors: Huang Wen-Yu , Wang Bin , Li Li-Juan , Yu Yong-Qiang
Published: November 2013

A known issue of the National Key Laboratory of Numerical Modeling for Atmospheric Sciences and Geophysical Fluid Dynamics/Institute of Atmospheric Physics Climate Ocean Model, version 2 (LICOM2, the standard version) is the use of an artificial island in the Arctic Ocean. The computational instability in the polar region seriously influences the model performance in terms of the Arctic circulation. The above-mentioned instability was originally attributed to the converging zonal grids in the polar region. However, this study finds that better computational stability could be achieved in an improved version of LICOM2 (i.e., LICOM2_imp) after four improvements on implementations of the vertical mixing, mesoscale eddy parameterization, and bottom drag schemes. LICOM2_imp is then able to reduce the aforesaid artificial island to a point (i.e., the North Pole).

Two experiments of 650-yr integration by LICOM2_imp are carried out using different bathymetries: Exp IMPV0 with the artificial island (88°–90°N) and IMPV1 with only the single pole. The focus of this paper is on the Arctic circulation. Exp IMPV1 gives a more reasonable distribution of salinity and temperature in the Arctic Ocean, a more accurate location of the center of the Beaufort Gyre, and a better net volume flux of the transpolar drift. With more realistic bathymetry in the Arctic Ocean, the biases of net volume fluxes across the Fram Strait, Barents Sea Opening, and Barents Sea Exit are reduced from 1.71 to 1.56, from 0.23 to 0.10, and from 0.71 to 0.45 Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1), respectively, closer to the observations. The large biases of the net volume fluxes at the Fram Strait in both experiments may be attributed to the closed Nares Strait and other straits/channels in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
Rewarding Regulation in Latin America
Authors: Schrank Andrew
Published: November 2013

This article introduces the special issue on “Rewarding Regulation in Latin America” by explaining the origins and potential value of the concept. It pays particularly careful attention to the limits of both regulation, as traditionally practiced, and deregulation in developing democracies today. And it briefly describes the individual contributions to the issue and summarizes their broader lessons.
Pollution in the Garden of the Argentine Republic
Authors: Amengual Matthew
Published: November 2013

Environmental regulation in middle-income and developing countries is often viewed with high degrees of pessimism. Although many countries have adopted protective laws, violations are widespread and institutions are weak. This paper analyzes the puzzle of shifting patterns of environmental regulation in Argentina, a country with widespread institutional weakness. Most regulators in Argentina take a firefighting approach, acting only when skirmishes emerge between communities and firms. Amidst regulatory chaos, improvements in the environmental performance of firms are few, and noncompliance remains the norm. However, in the province of Tucumán, the pattern of regulation shifted, and officials began to systematically enforce regulations. This paper traces shifts in patterns of enforcement back to broad pressures that provoked industry and environmentalists to support increases in the internal and external components of state regulatory capacity. The analysis uncovers political dynamics that can contribute to strengthening the institutions necessary for sustainable development.
Deliberative Cultures
Authors: Sass Jensen , Dryzek John S.
Published: November 2013

Increasing interest in applying the theory and practice of deliberative democracy to new and varied political contexts leads us to ask whether or not deliberation is a universal political practice. While deliberation does manifest a universal competence, its character varies substantially across time and space, a variation partially explicable in cultural terms. We deploy an intersubjective conception of culture in order to explore these differences. Culture meets deliberation where publicly accessible meanings, symbols, and norms shape the way political actors engage one another in discourse. Fuller understanding of political deliberation requires comparative and historical studies of particular contexts. We look at one case from Egypt in some depth and provide shorter illustrations from Botswana, Europe, India, Japan, Madagascar, the United States, Yemen, and elsewhere. Cross-cultural learning can enrich the theory of deliberative democracy, and give democratic theory a more universal reach.
Public Opinion and Attitude toward the Military and Democratic Consolidation in Turkey
Authors: Sarigil Zeki
Published: November 2013

The political influence of the Turkish military has substantially declined in the last decade, triggered by the European Union’s decision during the Helsinki Summit in 1999 to grant candidacy status to Turkey. This study illuminates Turkey’s democratization process in the post-Helsinki period by empirically analyzing a relatively underinvestigated aspect of civil–military relations: public opinion and attitude toward the military and civil–military issues. Empirical analyses, based on original and comprehensive public opinion data, indicate that despite impressive reforms and improvements in the legal and institutional structures in Turkish civil–military relations in the past ten years, democratic transformation in the political culture has been lagging behind. This gap is likely to complicate democratization process in Turkey. The article also provides a discussion of broader theoretical and practical implications of empirical findings.
The Thin Line between “Crazy” and “Hero”
Authors: Feinstein Yuval
Published: November 2013

This study explores how US veterans who suffer from mental health problems navigate between two primary statuses: national hero and mental patient. The analysis reveals a more nuanced understanding than previous research, which has focused on a simple negative association between positive veteran identity and stigma. Qualitative evidence collected in a work-therapy program for veterans demonstrates that the status of mental patient became salient in peer-group activities, where it engendered a sense of solidarity and mutual empathy, and in interactions outside the mental health care facility, where it involved a sense of stigma. The status of being a national hero emerged in interactions with casual visitors from whom material contributions were sought, but did not reinforce a sense of positive veteran identity because veterans were aware of its instrumental nature. When leaving the program, a strong sense of stigma emerged despite the possibility of embracing the veteran identity.
Patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants: Benefits of early surgical closure
Authors: Fonseca Elizabeth , Georgiev Stanimir G , Gorenflo Matthias , Loukanov Tsvetomir S
Published: November 2013

Background

Patent ductus arteriosus in preterm neonates leads to significant morbidity. Surgery is indicated when pharmacological treatment fails or is contraindicated, but the optimal timing remains unclear.

Methods

We retrospectively studied all 41 preterm neonates with symptomatic ductus arteriosus who underwent ligation between 1988 and 2009. We compared early complications rates and late neurological outcomes of patients operated on before 21 days of age with these operated on later.

Results

The median gestational age at birth was 26 weeks (range 23–31 weeks) and median weight at birth was 930 g (range 510–1500 g); 34 (82.9%) received pharmacological treatment before surgery. Fourteen (34.1%) patients underwent surgical closure before 21 days of age and 27 (65.9%) after 21 days. The 2 groups did not differ significantly in gestational age and weight at birth, but those operated on after 21 days received significantly more pharmacological treatment cycles. Patients in the early closure group had shorter intubation times: median 23 days (range 13–35 days) vs. 43 days (range 27–84 days; p < 0.001) and shorter neonatal intensive care unit stay: median 44 days (range 31–66 days) vs. 76 days (range 41–97 days; p < 0.001), with significantly lower rates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, and acute renal failure, and significantly better neurological outcomes.

Discussion

Performing early ligation of symptomatic ductus arteriosus after unsuccessful pharmacological therapy in preterm neonates might lower complication rates and improve neurological outcome. Prospective randomized studies are needed to determine the optimal treatment.
Thymoma type B1 arising in a giant supradiaphragmatic thymolipoma
Authors: Kaplan Tevfik , Han Serdar , Han Unsal , Atac Gokce Kaan , Yanik Serdar
Published: November 2013

Thymolipomas are uncommon tumors of the anterior mediastinum. They may extend into, but rarely stem from, the chest cavity. Furthermore, thymoma arising in a thymolipoma is extremely rare. We report a unique case of thymoma type B1 that originated form a giant thymolipoma located in the chest cavity, which was resected by a lateral thoracotomy in a 23-year-old woman. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of thymoma type B1 arising within a giant thymolipoma.
Surgical outcome of Fontan conversion and arrhythmia surgery: Need a pacemaker?
Authors: Terada Takafumi , Sakurai Hajime , Nonaka Toshimichi , Sakurai Takahisa , Sugiura Junya , Taneichi Tetsuyoshi , Ohtsuka Ryohei
Published: November 2013

Background

Atrial tachyarrhythmias are frequent complications in the late period after the Fontan procedure, and important risk factors for a poor prognosis. The impact of Fontan conversion and arrhythmia surgery in failed Fontan patients has been described in many reports.

Objective

We evaluated our experience with Fontan conversion procedures, concomitant arrhythmia surgery, and pacemaker implantation.

Methods

We reviewed the hospital records of 25 consecutive patients who underwent a Fontan conversion procedure from January 2004 to March 2012. Twenty-four patients had arrhythmia surgery using cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation at the time of conversion. A bilateral atrial maze procedure was performed in 6 patients, right-side maze in 15, and isthmus block in 3. Three patients with a diagnosis of corrected transposition of the great arteries underwent simultaneous pacemaker implantation electively.

Results

There was no early death and one late death during a mean follow-up period of 21.2 months. Three tachyarrhythmia recurrences developed, and there were 4 occurrences of sinus bradycardia. Five of these patients required postoperative pacemaker implantation.

Conclusion

The mid-term results of Fontan conversion and arrhythmia surgery in our institute were satisfactory. The occurrence of unexpected postoperative pacemaker requirement was high in the patients who underwent a right atrial or bilateral atrial maze procedure. Pacemaker or lead implantation is recommended for patients planned to undergo a right-side or full maze procedure.
Is word-order similarity necessary for cross-linguistic structural priming?
Authors: Chen Baoguo , Jia Yuefang , Wang Zhu , Dunlap Susan , Shin Jeong-Ah
Published: November 2013

This article presents two experiments employing two structural priming paradigms that investigated whether cross-linguistic syntactic priming occurred in Chinese and English passive sentences that differ in word order (production-to-production priming in Experiment 1 and comprehension-to-production priming in Experiment 2). Results revealed that cross-linguistic syntactic priming occurred in Chinese and English passive sentences, regardless of production of primes or comprehension of primes and language direction (L1–L2 or L2–L1). Our findings indicate that word-order similarity between languages is not necessary for cross-linguistic structural priming, supporting the view of a two-stage model of language production.
Processing tense/aspect-agreement violations on-line in the second language: A self-paced reading study with French and German L2 learners of English
Authors: Roberts Leah , Liszka Sarah Ann
Published: November 2013

In this article, we report the results of a self-paced reading experiment designed to investigate the question of whether or not advanced French and German learners of English as a second language (L2) are sensitive to tense/aspect mismatches between a fronted temporal adverbial and the inflected verb that follows (e.g. * Last week, James has gone swimming every day) in their on-line comprehension. The L2 learners were equally able to distinguish correctly the past simple from the present perfect as measured by a traditional cloze test production task. They were also both able to assess the mismatch items as less acceptable than the match items in an off-line judgment task. Using a self-paced reading task, we investigated whether they could access this knowledge during real-time processing. Despite performing similarly in the explicit tasks, the two learner groups processed the experimental items differently from each other in real time. On-line, only the French L2 learners were sensitive to the mismatch conditions in both the past simple and the present perfect contexts, whereas the German L2 learners did not show a processing cost at all for either mismatch type. We suggest that the performance differences between the L2 groups can be explained by influences from the learners’ first language (L1): namely, only those whose L1 has grammaticized aspect (French) were sensitive to the tense/aspect violations on-line, and thus could be argued to have implicit knowledge of English tense/aspect distinctions.
Incremental integrated modeling of dynamic viscoplastic responses of the annular sector plates exposed to shock wave loading
Authors: Zajkani Asghar , Darvizeh Abolfazl , Darvizeh Mansour , Ansari Reza
Published: November 2013

An incremental integrated modeling is presented to obtain high-rate dynamic viscoplastic behavior of annular sector plates. The large amplitude shock loads are imparted uniformly over the plate’s surface. Using the first-order shear deformation theory including the nonlinear Von-Kármán system, incremental differential equations are derived for nonaxisymmetric motion of the plate. A combined strain hardening law, in conjunction with special physical-based viscoplastic models, is applied to consider the material nonlinearity. Evaluation of the viscoplastic constitutive equations is accomplished by a semi-implicit scheme of the return mapping technique. An efficient algorithm is applied by the cutting-plane iteration to enforce plasticity admissibility during evolution of yield surface. A pseudo-spectral collocation methodology is implemented based on the Chebyshev polynomials in order to calculate displacement fields stepwise. Velocity and inertia terms are discrete by the Houbolt marching method. The nonlinear terms are eliminated by the quadratic extrapolation. The aliasing phenomenon caused by collocation treatment of nonlinear terms is controlled by applying an exponential filtering. A number of sector plates with different thicknesses, angularities, sector angles and boundary conditions are examined. The maximum transverse deflections, the effective plastic strain, dynamic yield stress, plastic works and temperatures are obtained. The present modeling is validated by comparing results with other approaches available in literature.
Protective effects of silymarin against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in mice
Authors: Bektur Nuriye Ezgi , Sahin Erhan , Baycu Cengiz , Unver Gonul
Published: November 2013

This study was designed to estimate protective effects of silymarin on acetaminophen ( N-acetyl- p-aminophenol, paracetamol; APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in mice. Treatment of mice with overdose of APAP resulted in the elevation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum creatinine (SCr) levels in serum, liver, and kidney nitric oxide (NO) levels and significant histological changes including decreased body weight, swelling of hepatocytes, cell infiltration, dilatation and congestion, necrosis and apoptosis in liver, and dilatation of Bowman’s capsular space and glomerular capillaries, pale-stained tubules epithelium, cell infiltration, and apoptosis in kidney. Posttreatment with silymarin 1 h after APAP injectionfor 7 days, however, significantly normalized the body weight, histological damage, serum ALT, AST, BUN, SCr, and tissue NO levels. Our observation suggested that silymarin ameliorated the toxic effects of APAP-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in mice. The protective role of silymarin against APAP-induced damages might result from its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects.
Evaluation of poisoning deaths in the Cukurova Region, Turkey, 2007-2011
Authors: Battal Dilek , Aktas Ayca , Sungur Mehmet Ali , Bilgin Nursel Gamsiz , Cekin Necmi
Published: November 2013

Complications of substances detected in poisoning deaths are important in order to observe changes in poisoning patterns and to monitor effects of preventive work. The aim of the present study was to describe the characteristics of substances investigated and detected in poisoning deaths by Adana Group Authority of the Council of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Chemistry, Cukurova, Turkey, between 2007 and 2011 retrospectively. A total of 7681 examinations were performed, of which, 7% ( n = 564) determined positive for at least one compound investigated. Ages of the cases ranged from 1 to 97 years (mean ± SD: 36.10 ±19.16). Carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings were found most frequently with an incidence of 27.0%, followed by prescription medications with 25.0%. Illegal drug poisonings were present in 20.0% of blood and urine samples analyzed. Pesticides, mostly endosulfan, were found in 13.0% of the 564 cases investigated. In the blood samples analyzed, methyl and ethyl alcohol were detected in 14.0% and volatile substances in 1.0%. Overall, this study has managed to contribute substantial additional information regarding the epidemiology of poisoning in Cukurova region, Southern Turkey. The results confirm other epidemiological data that indicate CO as the major cause of poisoning deaths in Turkey.
Honeybees and honey as monitors for heavy metal contamination near thermal power plants in Mugla, Turkey
Authors: Silici Sibel , Uluozlu Ozgur Dogan , Tuzen Mustafa , Soylak Mustafa
Published: November 2013

In the present work, 6 honeydew samples of known geographical and botanical origins and 11 honeybee samples were analyzed to detect possible contamination by the thermoelectric power plants in Mugla, Turkey. The contents of trace elements were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry after application of microwave digestion. The samples from the thermal power plants, which were 10–22 km away from the hives, that did not cause pollution in honeydew honeys were also analyzed. The levels of copper, cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc, manganese, iron, chromium, nickel, and aluminum were similar to the values found in other recent studies in literature. However, it was found that the contamination levels of the toxic elements such as Pb and Cd in honeybee samples measured relatively higher than that of honey samples. The study concludes that honeybees may be better bioindicators of heavy metal pollution than honey.
The antioxidant and antigenotoxic potential of methanol extract of Cladonia foliacea (Huds.) Willd
Authors: Anar Mustafa , Orhan Furkan , Alpsoy Lokman , Gulluce Medine , Aslan Ali , Agar Guleray
Published: November 2013

In this article, the genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of methanol extract of of Cladonia foliacea (Huds.) Willd. (CME) were studied using WP2, Ames (TA1535 and TA1537), and sister chromatid exchange (SCE) test systems. The results of our studies showed that 5 µM concentration of aflatoxin B1(AFB1) changed the frequencies of SCE and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities. When 5 and 10 µg/mL concentrations of CME was added to AFB1, the frequencies of SCE and MDA level were decreased and SOD, GSH, and GPx levels were increased. The extract CME did not show any mutagenicity on Ames (Salmonella typhimurium TA1535, TA1537) and WP2 (Escherichia coli) test systems. On the other hand, CME has antimutagenicity on the mentioned test systems. The results of this experiment have clearly shown that CME has a significant antioxidative and antigenotoxic effect, which is thought to be due to the antigenotoxic activities of antioxidant enzymes.
Protective effects of onion (Allium cepa) extract against doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Mete Rafet , Oran Mustafa , Topcu Birol , Oznur Meltem , Seber Erdogan Selcuk , Gedikbasi Asuman , Yetisyigit Tarkan
Published: November 2013

Background/aim:

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used and potent chemotherapeutic agent. However, serious dose-limiting toxicity through generation of free oxygen radicals is a commonly encountered clinical problem. The aim of the current study was to assess the protective role of onion ( Allium cepa) extract (ACE) against DOX-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Method:

A total of 24 rats were randomly divided into 3 equal experimental groups: (1) DOX; (2) ACE + DOX; and (3) control groups. ACE was given orally as 1 mL of fresh ACE juice for 14 consecutive days followed by DOX injection. DOX was injected intraperitoneally in a single dose of 30 mg/kg body weight to induce hepatotoxicity, and the rats were killed after 48 h from injection. Control group was given saline only.

Results:

In the ACE pretreated group (ACE + DOX), serum aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and tissue malondialdehyde and glutathione levels were significantly lower, while superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were higher compared with the DOX group. The histopathological examination of liver specimens revealed parenchymal necrosis, proliferation of biliary duct in DOX group; while ACE pretreatment provided marked reduction in these changes.

Conclusion:

Our study indicates that pretreatment with ACE protects against DOX-induced hepatotoxicity due to the antioxidant properties of ACE. Further studies on efficacy of antioxidant treatment by ACE in DOX-mediated toxicity and underlying mechanisms would provide a better explanation.
The biochemical and histological effects of lichens in normal and diabetic rats
Authors: Deniz Gülşah Yıldız , Geyikoğlu Fatime , Türkez Hasan , Bakır Tülay Özhan , Çolak Suat , Aslan Ali
Published: November 2013

Oxidative stress plays an important role in causing diabetes; however, no studies have thoroughly reported on the toxic and beneficial effects of lichen extracts in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). This study covers a previously unrecognized effect of two well-known lichen species Cetraria islandica and Pseudevernia furfuracae in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. In experimental design, control or diabetic rats were either untreated or treated with aqueous lichen extracts (250–500 mg/kg /day) for 2 weeks starting at 72 h after STZ injection. On day 14, animals were anaesthetized, and metabolic and biochemical parameters were appreciated between control and treatment groups. The histopathology of liver was examined using three different staining methods: hematoxylin–eosin (H&E), periodic acid Schiff (PAS), and reticulin and Sudan Black B. Our experimental data showed that increasing doses of C. islandica and P. furfuracae alone did not have any detrimental effects on studied parameters and the malondialdehyde level of liver. C. islandica extract showed positive results for antioxidant capacity compared to doses of P. furfuracae extract. However, the protective effect of C. islandica extract on diabetes-induced disorders and hepatic damages is still unclear. Moreover, unfortunately, animals subjected to DM therapy did not benefit from the usage of increasing lichen doses due to their unchanged antioxidant activity in tissues. The results obtained in present study suggested that C. islandica and P. furfuracae is safe but the power of these is limited because of intensive oxidative stress in liver of type 1 diabetic rats. It is also implied that C. islandica extract is especially suitable for different administration routes in DM animals.
Adolescents’ Needs for Nurses’ Support When Initiating Breastfeeding
Authors: Pentecost Ryoko , Grassley Jane S.
Published: November 2013

Background:

Increasing the number of infants who are breastfed has become a worldwide health priority because of the extensively documented health and economic benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and their children. It is unfortunate that adolescents initiate and continue breastfeeding at rates lower than adult women. Health care providers can improve these breastfeeding rates through the social support they offer adolescent mothers as they initiate breastfeeding.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to explore the needs of adolescents for social support from nurses when initiating breastfeeding.

Methods:

Secondary qualitative content analysis of 90 adolescents’ responses to 2 open-ended questions was conducted using social support theory as a framework. The 2 researchers independently categorized each response as informational, instrumental, emotional, and/or appraisal social support.

Results:

Adolescent mothers wanted nurses to take the time to explain breastfeeding, answer their questions, and provide consistent information that supported their informational needs. Emotional needs were met as the nurse provided for the adolescents’ privacy, treated them with respect, and stayed calm. Nurses met adolescents’ appraisal support needs through praise and encouragement. Participants valued instrumental support that included being given opportunities to work out breastfeeding under a nurse’s guidance.

Conclusion:

Adolescents needed a combination of informational, instrumental, emotional, and appraisal support. Adolescent mothers appreciate and value nurses who take the time to dialogue with them about breastfeeding.
Investigation of the cold-start engine performance at a low temperature for an engine fuelled with alternative fuel
Authors: Chen Xiao , Wang Hui , Song Changsheng , Wang Wenrui , Huang Jin , Liu Shenghua , Wei Yanju
Published: November 2013

With the stringent emissions regulations for spark ignition engines, attention has always been paid to the cold-start emissions of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. The engine speed is an external parameter that can reflect the combustion quality. In this paper, a four-cylinder spark ignition engine fuelled with gasoline and methanol–gasoline blends with methanol fractions of 10%, 30% and 85% is studied; the cold-start transient performances are investigated at ambient temperature of 15 °C, −7 °C, −15 °C and −25 °C respectively. The engine speed curves indicate the existence of misfire cycles and incomplete combustion cycles, which are proved by the measured in-cylinder temperatures and the data on the indicated mean effective pressure. The experimental results show that the addition of methanol increases the starting time at low temperatures, which improves the combustion, however. The engine started successfully for all the blending ratios and ambient temperatures except for the 85% methanol–gasoline blend at −25 °C. During the cold-start process, the peak speed and the transient period increase with increasing methanol fraction, while the speed fluctuations decrease. Thus the addition of methanol improves the cold-start performance of the engine.
In vivo evaluation of brain damage in the course of systemic lupus erythematosus using magnetic resonance spectroscopy, perfusion-weighted and diffusion-tensor imaging
Authors: Zimny A , Szmyrka-Kaczmarek M , Szewczyk P , Bladowska J , Pokryszko-Dragan A , Gruszka E , Wiland P , Sasiadek M
Published: November 2013

Twenty-two neuropsychiatric (NPSLE) and 13 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with a normal appearing brain on plain magnetic resonance (MR) as well as 20 age-matched healthy controls underwent MR spectroscopy (MRS), perfusion-weighted (PWI) and diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI). In MRS NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and mI/Cr ratios were calculated from the posterior cingulate cortex and left parietal white matter. In PWI, values of cerebral blood volume (CBV) were assessed from 14 regions, including gray and white matter. In DTI fractional anisotropy (FA) values were obtained from 14 white matter tracts including projection, commissural and association fibers. All MR measurements were correlated with clinical data. SLE and NPSLE patients showed significantly ( p < 0.05) lower NAA/Cr ratios within both evaluated regions and FA values within the cingulum, as well as a tendency to cortical hypoperfusion. Compared to SLE, NPSLE subjects revealed lower FA values within a wide range of association fibers and corpus callosum. Advanced MR techniques are capable of in vivo detection of complex microstructural brain damage in SLE and NPSLE subjects regarding neuronal loss, mild hypoperfusion and white matter disintegrity. MRS and DTI seem to show the highest usefulness in depicting early changes in normal appearing gray and white matter in SLE patients.
Hypovitaminosis-D and EBV: no interdependence between two MS risk factors in a healthy young UK autumn cohort
Authors: Ramien Caren , Pachnio Annette , Sisay Sofia , Begum Jusnara , Leese Alison , Disanto Giulio , Kuhle Jens , Giovannoni Gavin , Rickinson Alan , Ramagopalan Sreeram V , Moss Paul , Meier Ute-Christiane
Published: November 2013

Late Epstein-Barr virus infection and hypovitaminosis-D as environmental risk factors in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis are gaining great interest. We, therefore, tested for in-vivo interdependence between Epstein-Barr-virus (EBV)-status and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) -level in healthy young individuals from a United Kingdom (UK) autumn cohort. EBV-load was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and 25(OH)D3 levels by isotope-dilution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. This young, healthy UK autumn cohort showed surprisingly low levels of 25(OH)D3 (mean value: 40.5 nmol/L ± 5.02). Furthermore, we found that low 25(OH)D3 levels did not impact on EBV load and anti-EBV nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA-1) titers. However, we observed a correlation between EBV load and EBNA-1 titers. These observations should be of value in the study of the potential relationship between hypovitaminosis-D and EBV-status in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis.
Contribution of spinal cord biopsy to diagnosis of aquaporin-4 antibody positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Ringelstein M , Metz I , Ruprecht K , Koch A , Rappold J , Ingwersen J , Mathys C , Jarius S , Brück W , Hartung H-P , Paul F , Aktas O ,   for the Neuromyelitis Optica Study Group (NEMOS), Langel Stefan , Oy Ulrich Hofstadt-van , Reuss Reinhard , Wilke Christian , Münch Christoph , Hellwig Kerstin , Kleiter Ingo , Niehaus Sabine , Melms Arthur , Linker Ralf , Mayer Christoph , Guthke Kersten , Pellkofer Hannah , Hoffmann Frank , Zentner Christian , Stangel Martin , Trebst Corinna , Wildemann Brigitte , Geis Christian , Ettrich Barbara , Bergh Florian Then , Wandinger Klaus-Peter , Berthele Achim , Hemmer Bernhard , Kümpfel Tania , Marziniak Martin , Böttcher Tobias , Rommer Paulus S , Neuhaus Oliver , Sieb Jörn-Peter , Veauthier Christian , Faiss Jürgen , Kern Peter , Ziemann Ulf , Tumani Hayrettin , Lauda Florian , Brettschneider Johannes , Liebetrau Martin , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Schippling Sven
Published: November 2013

Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis is characteristic but not pathognomonic for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs) and may mimic local tumors. In this retrospective study based on a cohort of 175 NMOSD patients we identified seven patients who initially presented with a longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesion and underwent spinal cord biopsy due to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-suspected malignancies. Remarkably, routine neuropathology was inconclusive and did not guide the diagnostic process to anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-seropositive NMOSD. Serious postoperative complications occurred in 5/7 patients and persisted during follow-up in 2/7 patients (29%). Considering these sequelae, AQP4-antibody testing should be mandatory in patients with inconclusive longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions prior to biopsy.
Building an Evidence Base for Speech-Language Services in the Schools
Authors: Whitmire Kathleen A. , Rivers Kenyatta O. , Mele-McCarthy Joan A. , Staskowski Maureen
Published: November 2013

Speech-language pathologists are faced with demands for evidence to support practice. Federal legislation requires high-quality evidence for decisions regarding school-based services as part of evidence-based practice. The purpose of this article is to discuss the limited scientific evidence for making appropriate decisions about speech-language services for children and adolescents in schools, to identify factors that have contributed to this situation, and to present options for enhancing the depth and breadth of the evidence base.
The effect of school-leader support and participation in decision making on teacher collaboration in Dutch primary and secondary schools
Authors: Honingh Marlies , Hooge Edith
Published: November 2013

Over the last three decades, the concept of teacher collaboration has been embraced as a promising concept in the sphere of educational policy and educational research. Teacher collaboration is now considered crucial to strengthening the position of teachers, shaping their professional space and improving their professionalism. However, the concept of teacher collaboration lacks consensus: both its definitions and its purpose are the subject of discussion and criticism. Against this background, we present a theoretical and empirical analysis of teacher collaboration. We carried out secondary analyses on existing data from a large quantitative study conducted in primary schools ( n = 271) and secondary schools ( n = 343) to examine the extent to which teachers collaborate and to identify organizational characteristics and teachers’ personal characteristics that affect teacher collaboration. The models we developed using structural equation modelling reveal that teacher collaboration in primary schools is influenced by the extent to which teachers perceive school-leader support, teachers’ satisfaction concerning their participation in decision making and teachers’ orientation towards student performance. The model for secondary schools is more straightforward: only perceived school-leader support directly influences teacher collaboration.