bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Activities of Ethanol Extract of Stem Bark of SonapathaOroxylum indicum In Vivo
Authors: Lalrinzuali K. , Vabeiryureilai M. , Jagetia Ganesh Chandra
Published: January 2016

Inflammation is all a pervasive phenomenon, which is elicited by the body in response to obnoxious stimuli as a protective measure. However, sustained inflammation leads to several diseases including cancer. Therefore it is necessary to neutralize inflammation. Sonapatha (Oroxylum indicum), a medicinal plant, is traditionally used as a medicine in Ayurveda and other folk systems of medicine. It is commonly used to treat inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. Despite this fact its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects are not evaluated scientifically. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of Sonapatha (Oroxylum indicum) were studied in Swiss albino mice by different methods. The hot plate, acetic acid, and tail immersion tests were used to evaluate the analgesic activity whereas xylene-induced ear edema and formalin induced paw edema tests were used to study the anti-inflammatory activity of Sonapatha. The administration of mice with 250 and 300 mg/kg b.wt. ofO. indicumreduced pain and inflammation indicating that Sonapatha possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. The maximum analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities were observed in mice receiving 300 mg/kg b.wt. ofO. indicumethanol extract.Our study indicates thatO. indicumpossesses both anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities and it may be useful as an anti-inflammatory agent in the inflammation related disorders.
Angioimmunoblastic T Cell Lymphoma Mimicking Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Kang Mohleen , Bhatia Nitasha , Sauder Adrienne , Feurdean Mirela
Published: January 2016

Angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma (AITL) is a rare but distinct type of T cell lymphoma with an aggressive course and high mortality. Most patients are diagnosed late in the disease and usually present with generalized lymphadenopathy. A minority have skin lesions at the time of diagnosis, more commonly in the form of nonspecific maculopapular rash with or without pruritus. We report a rare case of AITL presenting with chronic, recurrent angioedema and urticaria-like lesions and no palpable peripheral adenopathy. Primary Care physicians, dermatologists, and allergists must maintain a high index of suspicion for cutaneous manifestations of lymphoma, especially if the skin lesions are refractory to standard treatment. Timely diagnosis is essential to improve survival.
Clinical Manifestations and Myositis-Specific Autoantibodies Associated with Physical Dysfunction after Treatment in Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis: An Observational Study of Physical Dysfunction with Myositis in Japan
Authors: Kawasumi Hidenaga , Gono Takahisa , Kawaguchi Yasushi , Kuwana Masataka , Kaneko Hirotaka , Katsumata Yasuhiro , Kataoka Sayuri , Hanaoka Masanori , Yamanaka Hisashi
Published: January 2016

Objective.The physical function of PM/DM patients after remission induction therapy remains unknown adequately. The aim of our study was to evaluate the present status of physical dysfunction and to clarify the clinical manifestations and myositis-specific autoantibodies (MSAs) associated with physical dysfunction after treatment in PM/DM.Methods.We obtained clinical data including the age at disease onset, gender, disease duration, laboratory data prior to initial treatment, and the specific treatment administered. We evaluated disease activity and physical dysfunction after treatment using the core set provided by the International Myositis Assessment and Clinical Studies Group.Results.57% of the 77 enrolled patients with PM/DM had troubles in daily living after treatment. At the enrolment, disease activity evaluated by physicians was only revealed in 20% of patients. In a multivariate analysis, the age at disease onset, female gender, and CK levels before treatment were significantly associated with the severity of physical dysfunction after treatment. Anti-SRP positivity was associated with more severe physical dysfunction after treatment than anti-ARS or anti-MDA5.Conclusions.Half of the PM/DM patients showed physical dysfunction after treatment. Age at disease onset, gender, CK level before treatment, and anti-SRP were significant predictors associated with physical dysfunction after treatment in PM/DM.
Bevacizumab Prevents Brain Metastases Formation in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ilhan-Mutlu Aysegül , Osswald Matthias , Liao Yunxiang , Gömmel Miriam , Reck Martin , Miles David , Mariani Paola , Gianni Luca , Lutiger Beatrix , Nendel Viktor , Srock Stefanie , Perez-Moreno Pablo , Thorsen Frits , von Baumgarten Louisa , Preusser Matthias , Wick Wolfgang , Winkler Frank
Published: January 2016

Patients with nonsquamous non–small cell lung cancer (nsNSCLC; largely lung adenocarcinoma) are at high risk of developing brain metastases. Preclinical data suggested that anti–VEGF-A therapy may prevent the formation of nsNSCLC brain metastases. Whether non-brain metastases are also prevented, and whether bevacizumab shows a brain metastases–preventive activity in cancer patients is unknown. Data of one nsNSCLC (stage IIIB/IV, AVAiL) and two breast cancer bevacizumab trials (HER2 negative, AVADO; HER2 positive, AVEREL) were retrospectively analyzed regarding the frequency of the brain versus other organs being the site of first relapse. For animal studies, the outgrowth of PC14-PE6 lung adenocarcinoma cells to brain macrometastases in mice was measured by intravital imaging: under control IgG (25 mg/kg) treatment, or varying doses of bevacizumab (25 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 0.25 mg/kg). Brain metastases as site of first relapse were significantly less frequent in the bevacizumab arm of the AVAiL trial (HR = 0.36, P < 0.001). In AVADO and AVEREL, no significant difference was seen. In mice, bevacizumab treatment led to secondary regressions of non-brain macrometastases, but did not reduce their total incidence, and did not improve survival. In a brain-seeking nsNSCLC metastasis model, treatment with bevacizumab inhibited brain metastases formation, which resulted in improved overall survival. In summary, bevacizumab has the potential to prevent brain metastases in nsNSCLC, but no preventive activity could be detected outside the brain. These data indicate that anti–VEGF-A agents might be particularly relevant for those stage III nsNSCLC patients who are at high risk to develop future brain metastases. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(4); 702–10. ©2016 AACR.
Tumor Cell–Driven Extracellular Matrix Remodeling Drives Haptotaxis during Metastatic Progression
Authors: Oudin Madeleine J. , Jonas Oliver , Kosciuk Tatsiana , Broye Liliane C. , Guido Bruna C. , Wyckoff Jeff , Riquelme Daisy , Lamar John M. , Asokan Sreeja B. , Whittaker Charlie , Ma Duanduan , Langer Robert , Cima Michael J. , Wisinski Kari B. , Hynes Richard O. , Lauffenburger Douglas A. , Keely Patricia J. , Bear James E. , Gertler Frank B.
Published: January 2016

Fibronectin (FN) is a major component of the tumor microenvironment, but its role in promoting metastasis is incompletely understood. Here, we show that FN gradients elicit directional movement of breast cancer cells, in vitro and in vivo. Haptotaxis on FN gradients requires direct interaction between α5β1 integrin and MENA, an actin regulator, and involves increases in focal complex signaling and tumor cell–mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Compared with MENA, higher levels of the prometastatic MENAINV isoform associate with α5, which enables 3-D haptotaxis of tumor cells toward the high FN concentrations typically present in perivascular space and in the periphery of breast tumor tissue. MENAINV and FN levels were correlated in two breast cancer cohorts, and high levels of MENAINV were significantly associated with increased tumor recurrence as well as decreased patient survival. Our results identify a novel tumor cell–intrinsic mechanism that promotes metastasis through ECM remodeling and ECM-guided directional migration.

Significance: Here, we provide new insight into how tumor cell:ECM interactions generate signals and structures that promote directed tumor cell migration, a critical component of metastasis. Our results identify a tumor cell–intrinsic mechanism driven by the actin regulatory protein MENA that promotes ECM remodeling and haptotaxis along FN gradients. Cancer Discov; 6(5); 516–31. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Santiago-Medina and Yang, p. 474.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 461
Feasibility of an Early Discontinuation of Thyroid Hormone Treatment in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants at Risk for Transient or Permanent Congenital Hypothyroidism
Authors: Jung Ji Mi , Jin Hye Young , Chung Mi Lim
Published: January 2016

Background/Aims: This prospective study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of an early discontinuation of thyroid hormone treatment in very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants with congenital hypothyroidism (CH). Methods: We enrolled VLBW infants between January 2011 and December 2012. The infants were divided into the hypothyroid and normal thyroid function groups according to the results of a thyroid function test. We performed an early off-therapy trial at 24 months of age. Results: Of the 182 VLBW infants enrolled, 15 were lost to follow-up and 167 were finally enrolled. In total, 24 infants (14.4%) were assigned to the hypothyroid function group and were treated with thyroid hormone. Younger gestational age and a lower birth weight were associated with hypothyroid function. In the hypothyroid function group, hypothyroidism (HT) and hyperthyrotropinemia (HTT) were observed in 13 and 11 infants, respectively. There were no differences in the clinical characteristics between the HT and HTT groups. Overall, 24 infants discontinued thyroxine medication at 24 months of age after normal results had been confirmed by radiologic work-ups, including thyroid ultrasonography and technetium-99m scans. All infants were successfully weaned off thyroxine and maintained euthyroid function. Conclusion: Early discontinuation of thyroid hormone replacement therapy is possible in the majority of VLBW infants with CH.
EFEITO DO FOGO SOBRE VEGETAÇÃO E SOLO A PARTIR DE ESTUDO EXPERIMENTAL EM AMBIENTE DE CERRADO
Authors: COSTA YASMMIN TADEU , RODRIGUES SILVIO CARLOS
Published: January 2016

Muito se discute sobre o efeito do fogo ao ecossistema, podendo ser positivo ou desprezível para seu desenvolvimento ou ainda degradante do meio. Contudo, o seu efeito e intensidade de alteração no ambiente terá influência de acordo com as características do ecossistema que atinge. Sendo assim, o presente trabalho tem como objetivo compreender e quantificar o efeito do fogo sobre um ambiente de Cerrado mineiro em estado de recuperação, utilizando como parâmetro de análise o tempo de reestabelecimento da vegetação, as alterações físico-químicas e a ocorrência de processos erosivos, os quais foram obtidos através dos seguintes procedimentos metodológicos: análise foto-comparativa através do software ENVI, análises de solo laboratoriais e coletas semanais de escoamento superficial e perda de solo, respectivamente. O período de coleta de dados do estudo se deu de fevereiro de 2014 a abril de 2015 e se baseou em 5 parcelas de 1m² localizadas na Fazenda Experimental do Glória (Uberlândia – MG) com características fitofisionômicas diferentes, onde se aplicaram duas queimadas experimentais em diferentes épocas do ano.  Conclui-se neste trabalho que as duas queimadas de baixa intensidade aplicadas sobre ambiente de Cerrado não contribuíram para degradação intensa das áreas analisadas.
UNIDADES DE MAPEAMENTO DE SOLOS SOB CULTIVO DE CANA-DE-AÇÚCAR EM 2011: análise da expansão da cultura no Sudoeste de Goiás (Brasil)
Authors: Franco Íria Oliveira , Scopel Iraci , Assunção Hildeu Ferreira
Published: January 2016

Esperava-se que a atividade canavieira no Sudoeste de Goiás (SW-GO) ocorresse em solols marginalizados ao cultivo de grãos. Entretanto, observou-se que isto não foi o que aconteceu, pois, o plantio e a expansão da cana-de-açúcar ocorreram em solos com aptidão agrícola regular e boa para lavouras anuais. Neste trabalho identificou-se as unidades de mapeamento de solos mais utilizadas com o cultivo de cana no SW-GO, no ano de 2011. A partir da classificação das áreas com cana nas imagens de satélite, em 2011, e apoio de campo, foi feita a sobreposição no mapa temático de solos, compilado da base de dados do Sistema de Informações Geográficas do Estado de Goiás de 2006. Assim, a área cultivada com cana no SW-GO, em 2011, foi de 242.988 ha, equivalente a 33,2 % da área cultivada com cana no Estado (INPE/Canasat, 2012), no ano-safra de 2011/2012. Das unidades de mapeamento de solos, a mais utilizada com cana no ano de 2011 foi a dos Latossolos com 186.811 ha. Os Neossolos Quartzarênicos apresentaram uma área cultivada com cana de apenas 30.256 ha, correspondente a 12,4 % das áreas de cana no SW-GO, no ano de 2011/2012.
First record of Scotophilus kuhlii Leach, 1821 (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) from Nepal
Authors: Dahal Dibya , Thapa Sanjan , Basnet Khadga
Published: January 2016

Occurrence of Scotophilus kuhlii was speculated throughout the southern plain (Tarai) of Nepal.  However, there was no record of voucher specimen of the species from Nepal. We collected a specimen from the Tikulia tole, Pakali Village Development Committee, Sunsari District of southeastern Nepal and deposited at Central Department of Zoology (CDZ) Museum, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu.  The specimen was identified as S. kuhlii based on measurement of external body, cranial, dental parts and detail description of the species.  This is the first specific locality record of the species from Nepal that confirms its presence in the country.

 
Three species of Phallus (Basidiomycota: Agaricomycetes: Phallaceae) from Jammu & Kashmir, India
Authors: Kour Harpreet , Yangdol Rigzin , Kumar Sanjeev , Sharma Yash Pal
Published: January 2016

In this paper, three species of Phallus viz., P. macrosporus, P. rubicundus and P. hadriani are described, illustrated and discussed along with habitat photographs and line drawings of microscopic features.  Out of these, P. macrosporus is new to India. P. rubicundus is new to Jammu & Kashmir whereas P. hadriani constitutes a new report of its occurrence from the Jammu Province. A key to the investigated species is also provided.

 
Acute Myocardial Infarction in Women
Authors: Mehta Laxmi S. , Beckie Theresa M. , DeVon Holli A. , Grines Cindy L. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Johnson Michelle N. , Lindley Kathryn J. , Vaccarino Viola , Wang Tracy Y. , Watson Karol E. , Wenger Nanette K.
Published: January 2016

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in American women. Since 1984, the annual cardiovascular disease mortality rate has remained greater for women than men; however, over the last decade, there have been marked reductions in cardiovascular disease mortality in women. The dramatic decline in mortality rates for women is attributed partly to an increase in awareness, a greater focus on women and cardiovascular disease risk, and the increased application of evidence-based treatments for established coronary heart disease. This is the first scientific statement from the American Heart Association on acute myocardial infarction in women. Sex-specific differences exist in the presentation, pathophysiological mechanisms, and outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction. This statement provides a comprehensive review of the current evidence of the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, treatment, and outcomes of women with acute myocardial infarction.
Maternal Cardiovascular Function in Normal Pregnancy
Authors: Melchiorre Karen , Sharma Rajan , Khalil Asma , Thilaganathan Baskaran
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate cardiac functional status in pregnancy using a comprehensive approach taking into account the simultaneous changes in loading and geometry, as well as maternal age and anthropometric indices. This was a prospective cross-sectional study of 559 nulliparous pregnant women assessed at 4 time points during pregnancy and at 1 year postpartum. All women underwent conventional echocardiography and tissue Doppler velocities and strain rate analysis at multiple cardiac sites. Mean arterial pressure and total vascular resistance index significantly decreased (both
P
<0.001) during the first 2 trimesters of pregnancy and increased thereafter. Stroke volume index and cardiac index showed the opposite trend compared with mean arterial pressure and total vascular resistance index (both
P
<0.05). Myocardial and ventricular function were significantly enhanced in the first 2 trimesters but progressively declined thereafter. By the end of pregnancy, significant chamber diastolic dysfunction and impaired myocardial relaxation was evident in 17.9% and 28.4% of women, respectively, whereas myocardial contractility was preserved. There was full recovery of cardiac function at 1 year postpartum. Cardiovascular changes during pregnancy are thought to represent a physiological adaptation to volume overload. The findings of a drop in stroke volume index, impaired myocardial relaxation with diastolic dysfunction, and a tendency toward eccentric remodeling in a significant proportion of cases at term are suggestive of cardiovascular maladaptation to the volume-overloaded state in some apparently normal pregnancies. These unexpected cardiovascular findings have important implications for the management of both normal and pathological pregnancy states.
Revision and phylogenetic analysis of the orb-weaving spider genus Glenognatha Simon, 1887 (Araneae, Tetragnathidae)
Authors: CABRA-GARCÍA JIMMY , BRESCOVIT ANTONIO D.
Published: January 2016

A taxonomic revision and phylogenetic analysis of the spider genus Glenognatha Simon, 1887 is presented. This analysis is based on a data set including 24 Glenognatha species plus eight outgroups representing three related tetragnathine genera and one metaine as the root. These taxa were scored for 78 morphological characters. Parsimony was used as the optimality criterion and a sensitivity analysis was performed using different character weighting concavities. Seven unambiguous synapomorphies support the monophyly of Glenognatha. Some internal clades within the genus are well-supported and its relationships are discussed. Glenognatha as recovered includes 27 species, four of them only known from males. A species identification key and distribution maps are provided for all. New morphological data are also presented for thirteen previously described species. Glenognatha has a broad distribution occupying the Neartic, Afrotropic, Indo-Malaya, Oceania and Paleartic regions, but is more diverse in the Neotropics. The following eleven new species are described: G. vivianae n. sp., G. caaguara n. sp., G. boraceia n. sp. and G. timbira n. sp. from southeast Brazil, G. caparu n. sp., G. januari n. sp. and G. camisea n. sp. from the Amazonian region, G. mendezi n. sp., G. florezi n. sp. and G. patriceae n. sp. from northern Andes and G. gouldi n. sp. from Southern United States and central Mexico. Females of G. minuta Banks, 1898, G. gaujoni Simon, 1895 and G. gloriae (Petrunkevitch, 1930) and males of G. globosa (Petrunkevitch, 1925) and G. hirsutissima (Berland, 1935) are described for the first time. Three new combinations are proposed in congruence with the phylogenetic results: G. argyrostilba (O. P.-Cambridge, 1876) n. comb., G. dentata (Zhu & Wen, 1978) n. comb. and G. tangi (Zhu, Song & Zhang, 2003) n. comb., all previously included in Dyschiriognatha Simon, 1893. The following taxa are newly synonymized: Dyschiriognatha montana Simon, 1897, Glenognatha mira Bryant, 1945 and Glenognatha maelfaiti Baert, 1987 with Glenognatha argyrostilba (Pickard-Cambridge, 1876) and Glenognatha centralis Chamberlin, 1925 with Glenognatha minuta Banks, 1898.
El legado problemático del caso Brown v. Board of Education
Authors: López Gerardo R. , Burciaga Rebeca
Published: January 2016

Resumen

El propósito: Este artículo presenta una reflexión sobre el 60º aniversario de la decisión judicial de la Corte Suprema en el caso Brown v. Board of Education y discute las lecciones significativas aprendidas de ésta y las subsiguientes decisiones de la corte. El argumento: Afirmamos que un nuevo diálogo fundamentalmente diferente referido al legado del caso Brown es necesario si apuntamos a entender de manera crítica el pasado, el presente y el futuro de las relaciones raciales como telón de fondo de las cuestiones de segregación escolar en este país. Implicaciones: El legado problemático de Brown provee una oportunidad para interrogar la cuestión de por qué nosotros como un país continuamos teniendo fe en este caso en particular como solución por la inequidad racial. Invitamos a los lectores a “soltar” simbólicamente a Brown para imaginar nuevas posibilidades de la justicia racial, la oportunidad educacional, y la reforma social.
Workload Capacity
Authors: Yamani Yusuke , McCarley Jason S.
Published: January 2016

Objective

An experiment used the workload capacity measure C( t) to quantify the processing efficiency of human–automation teams and identify operators’ automation usage strategies in a speeded decision task.

Background

Although response accuracy rates and related measures are often used to measure the influence of an automated decision aid on human performance, aids can also influence response speed. Mean response times (RTs), however, conflate the influence of the human operator and the automated aid on team performance and may mask changes in the operator’s performance strategy under aided conditions. The present study used a measure of parallel processing efficiency, or workload capacity, derived from empirical RT distributions as a novel gauge of human–automation performance and automation dependence in a speeded task.

Method

Participants performed a speeded probabilistic decision task with and without the assistance of an automated aid. RT distributions were used to calculate two variants of a workload capacity measure, COR( t) and CAND( t).

Results

Capacity measures gave evidence that a diagnosis from the automated aid speeded human participants’ responses, and that participants did not moderate their own decision times in anticipation of diagnoses from the aid.

Conclusion and Application

Workload capacity provides a sensitive and informative measure of human–automation performance and operators’ automation dependence in speeded tasks.
The effectiveness of psychosocial interventions implemented after the Indian Ocean Tsunami: A systematic review
Authors: Lipinski Kyle , Liu Lucia L , Wong Paul WC
Published: January 2016

Background:

Currently, the number of natural disasters has increased sixfold when compared to the 1960s. The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami offered provided an opportunity for scientifically investigating the effectiveness of post-disaster programs across countries with diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of psychological interventions focused on the prevention or reduction in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and/or enhancement of psychological well-being implemented after the 2004 Tsunami.

Methods:

We systematically searched through MEDLINE, PsycINFO and The Published International Literature on Traumatic Stress (PILOTS) databases using the following keywords: ‘tsunami’ OR ‘Indian Ocean’, AND ‘intervention’.

Results:

Our systematic review included 10 studies which adopted 10 different psychological interventions. A total of 8 of the 10 studies reported positive results in reducing PTSD symptoms and most interventions showed high levels of cultural sensitivity. No significant harmful effects of the included interventions were identified although two studies used potentially harmful interventions.

Conclusion:

Evidence-based practice is a process of collaborative decision-making between the affected ones and interventionists. The practitioner assesses not only the availability of the level of evidence of the preferred interventions, but he or she also assesses his or her own expertise, the availability of resources, the surrounding context and the characteristics, values and preferences of relevant stakeholders.
Halo Effects in Trait Assessment Depend on Information Valence
Authors: Gräf Michael , Unkelbach Christian
Published: January 2016

We propose stronger halo effects in trait assessments from positive information relative to negative information. Due to positive information’s higher similarity, positive information should foster both indirect (from a global impression to traits) and direct halo effects (from traits to traits). Negative information’s relative distinctiveness should foster only direct halo effects, leading to weaker halo effects overall. Four experiments support these predictions using agency traits and communion traits and behaviors. Further supporting the predictions, halo effects from positive information were visible both within (i.e., from communion/agency information to communion/agency traits) and across (i.e., from agency/communion information to communion/agency traits) these fundamental dimensions of social perception. Halo effects from negative information were visible only within dimensions. The study thereby explains why halo effects from negative information are usually weaker; it supports different processes underlying halo effects; and it provides a case in person perception where positive information has more impact than negative information.
Disability in the Workplace
Authors: Santuzzi Alecia M. , Waltz Pamela R.
Published: January 2016

Similar to other identities, disability identity can be complex and exist at varying levels of integration with other identities, including an occupational identity. Yet existing empirical research in the management and social science literature on disability in the workplace reveals a lack of appreciation for the complexity of disability identity. In the following review, we move toward a broader conceptualization of disability identity in the workplace by integrating theoretical perspectives on disability identity across disciplines with existing research on disability-related experiences in the workplace. We propose that a worker’s decision to adopt a disability identity in the workplace depends on various factors that function at the intraindividual, interpersonal, organizational, and societal levels. We then draw on a more complex conceptualization of disability identity to inform existing research on disclosure and requests for accommodations, worker safety and well-being, and understanding responses to employment opportunities among workers with disabilities. Finally, we recommend several new avenues of research incorporating a broader view of disability identity and recommend organizational practices that are informed by a dynamic identity perspective.
Mechanochemical ablation for symptomatic great saphenous vein reflux: A two-year follow-up
Authors: Kim Pamela S , Bishawi Muath , Draughn David , Boter Marab , Gould Charles , Koziarski John , Bernstein Rick , Hamilton Richard
Published: January 2016

Background

Several studies have shown comparable early efficacy of mechanochemical ablation to endothermal techniques. The goal of this report was to show if early efficacy is maintained at 24 months.

Methods

This was a two-year analysis on the efficacy of mechanochemical ablation in patients with symptomatic C2 or more advanced chronic venous disease. Patients with reflux in the great saphenous vein involving the sapheno-femoral junction and no previous venous interventions were included. Demographic information, clinical, and procedural data were collected. The occlusion rate of treated veins was assessed with duplex ultrasound. Patient clinical improvement was assessed by Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology (CEAP) class and venous clinical severity score.

Results

Of the initial 126 patients, there were 65 patients with 24 month follow-up. Of these 65 patients, 70% were female, with a mean age of 70 ± 14 years and an average body mass index (BMI) of BMI of 30.5 ± 6. The mean great saphenous vein diameter in the upper thigh was 7.6 mm and the mean treatment length was 39 cm. Adjunctive treatment of the varicosities was performed in 14% of patients during the procedure. Closure rates were 100% at one week, 98% at three months, 95% at 12 months, and 92% at 24 months. There was one patient with complete and four with partial recanalization ranging from 7 to 12 cm (mean length 9 cm). There was significant improvement in CEAP and venous clinical severity score (P < .001) for all time intervals.

Conclusion

Early high occlusion rate with mechanochemical ablation is associated with significant clinical improvement which is maintained at 24 months, making it a very good option for the treatment of great saphenous vein incompetence.
Finding a needle in an exponential haystack: Discrete RRT for exploration of implicit roadmaps in multi-robot motion planning
Authors: Solovey Kiril , Salzman Oren , Halperin Dan
Published: January 2016

We present a sampling-based framework for multi-robot motion planning. which combines an implicit representation of roadmaps for multi-robot motion planning with a novel approach for pathfinding in geometrically embedded graphs tailored for our setting. Our pathfinding algorithm, discrete-RRT (dRRT), is an adaptation of the celebrated RRT algorithm for the discrete case of a graph, and it enables a rapid exploration of the high-dimensional configuration space by carefully walking through an implicit representation of the tensor product of roadmaps for the individual robots. We demonstrate our approach experimentally on scenarios that involve as many as 60 degrees of freedom and on scenarios that require tight coordination between robots. On most of these scenarios our algorithm is faster by a factor of at least 10 when compared to existing algorithms that we are aware of.
Commodification and Resistance: Theoretical Implications Drawn from a Mobile Recreational Community
Authors: Austin D. Mark , Gagné Patricia
Published: January 2016

Drawing on interview, survey, and long-term participant observational research in the BMW motorcycling community, we analyze issues related to the commodification of riding. We use Hill-Collins’s (1999) “both/and” approach in our data analysis. Specifically, we draw on Adorno’s (1991) and Marcuse’s (1964) theories of the commodification of popular culture and the power of the “culture industry” to market non-essential products. We find that Marx’s (Marx and Engels 1988) theory of ways to attain “species-being” have the potential to be expanded via serious leisure activities (e.g., motorcycling) even as some are caught up in the discursive power of the culture industry.
Fabrication and characterization of nanoparticle MgO/B4C composite by mechanochemical method
Authors: Gokmese Hakan , Bostan Bulent
Published: January 2016

In this study, nanoparticle boron carbide was produced after the reduction of boron oxide with magnesium under the presence of carbon by using mechanochemical synthesis method. During the synthesis processing, microstructure and phase transformations of powders were performed by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectrum (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). At the end of 2 h, reaction products (MgO, B4C) were determined by XRD and FT-IR examinations. Nanoparticle B4C single-phase crystalline structure from the MgO/B4C composite powder mixture, which was the reaction product, was obtained by leaching process. With the increase in the synthesis period, starting material peaks diminished and Fe peak intensity became evident. After the HRTEM examinations, it was determined that synthesized B4C particles were within range of 10–200 nm especially in the activation of leaching process. Additionally, by using spot pattern analysis method, planes represented by B4C particles were calculated.
Reconsidering the normative argument from bounded rationality
Authors: Polonioli Andrea
Published: January 2016

I take a fresh look at the normative argument from bounded rationality, which has been offered as one particular line of criticism to resist pessimistic views on human rationality. Commentators in the “rationality debate” have generally interpreted the argument appealing to the ought-implies-can principle and considered it unconvincing. I suggest an alternative way to interpret the argument, which appeals to the framework of “adaptive rationality” and better captures what scholars appealing to the normative relevance of people’s cognitive limitations had in mind. Whilst this conceptualization looks more promising, the argument so construed is no longer an independent objection to bias researchers, but is instead a particular case of the more general concern that behavior violating normative standards can be adaptive. Further, it is unclear whether this version of the argument licenses the optimistic verdicts about rationality generally associated with scholars appealing to the normative relevance of research on bounded rationality.
Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effect of polyphenols from apple pomace extract via apoptosis inhibition and Nrf2 activation in mice
Authors: Sharma S , Rana S , Patial V , Gupta M , Bhushan S , Padwad YS
Published: January 2016

Industrial apple pomace, a biowaste generated during apple processing, is rich in cell wall polysaccharides and phenolics. These biologically active compounds are reported to be highly beneficial from the nutritional and health point of view. In the present study, the total phenolic content in the apple pomace aqueous extract (APE) was estimated and evaluated for its possible antioxidant and hepatoprotective efficacy in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury mice model. The aqueous extract exhibited 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging activity in vitro. Under in vivo study, mice were treated with APE (200 mg and 400 mg/kg body weight) for 2 weeks prior to the administration of CCl4 (30% v/v). The serum liver injury markers alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly lowered by APE in a dose-dependent manner. The levels of antioxidant parameters superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (redGSH), and lipid peroxidation were also improved by APE in liver homogenate. Histopathological studies revealed that APE treatment significantly lowered the CCl4-induced necrotic changes in the liver. Furthermore, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end-labeling assay showed that CCl4-induced apoptosis in the liver was significantly inhibited by APE in a dose-dependent manner. Immunohistochemistry results showed higher expression of nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the liver of the APE-treated mice, a key regulator of antioxidative response. In conclusion, the results of the present study revealed the hepatoprotective efficacy of APE by inhibiting CCl4-induced apoptosis, which is due to its antioxidant activity and the ability to induce Nrf2 protein expression.
Hope, Symptoms, and Palliative Care
Authors: Davis Mellar P. , Lagman Ruth , Parala Armida , Patel Chirag , Sanford Tanya , Fielding Flannery , Brumbaugh Anita , Gross James , Rao Archana , Majeed Sumreen , Shinde Shivani , Rybicki Lisa A.
Published: January 2016

Background:

Hope is important to patients with cancer. Identifying factors that influence hope is important. Anxiety, depression, fatigue, and pain are reported to impair hope. The objective of this study was to determine whether age, gender, marital status, duration of cancer, symptoms, or symptom burden measured by the sum of severity scores on the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) correlated with hope measured by the Herth Hope Index (HHI).

Methods:

Patients with advanced cancer in a palliative care unit participated. Demographics including age, gender, marital status, cancer site, and duration of cancer were collected. Individuals completed the ESAS and HHI. Spearman correlation and linear regression were used to assess associations adjusting for gender (male vs female), age (< 65 vs ≥ 65 years), marital status (married or living with a partner vs other), and duration of cancer (≤ 12 vs > 12 months).

Results:

One hundred and ninety-seven were participated in the study, of which 55% were female with a mean age of 61 years (standard deviation 11). Hope was not associated with gender, age, marital status, or duration of cancer. In univariable analysis, hope inversely correlated with ESAS score (−0.28), lack of appetite (−0.22), shortness of breath (−0.17), depression (−0.39), anxiety (−0.32), and lack of well-being (−0.33); only depression was clinically relevant. In multivariable analysis, total symptom burden weakly correlated with hope; only depression remained clinically significant.

Discussion:

This study found correlation between symptom burden and hope was not clinically relevant but was so for depression.

Conclusion:

Among 9 ESAS symptoms, only depression had a clinically relevant correlation with hope.
African American Transgender Women’s Individual, Family, and Organizational Relationships: Implications for Nurses
Authors: Cornelius Judith B. , Whitaker-Brown Charlene D.
Published: January 2016

Guided by the relational cultural theory, we conducted a qualitative study to examine the relationship experiences of African American transgender women living in North Carolina. A convenience sample of 15 transgender women participated in the study. Semi-structured interviews, guided by an investigator-developed interview guide, were used to explore the personal experiences of transgender women on individual, family, and organizational levels. The findings provide a scheme for understanding the process through which transgender women’s relationships hinder or enhance their ability to connect with individuals, family, and organizations. Nurses can use these findings to better understand the connectedness that occurs or does not occur in transgender women’s relationships and provide culturally competent care to empower them to become resilient.
Effect of carbon black nanoparticles concentration on the mechanical properties of a structural epoxy adhesive
Authors: Carbas RJC , da Silva LFM , Andrés LFS
Published: January 2016

The present work describes the influence of different carbon black nanoparticles with different concentrations on the mechanical properties of a structural epoxy adhesive cured by dielectric and thermal heating. This work was undertaken to improve the understanding of the effect of carbon black nanoparticles concentration on the stiffness (Young’s modulus), strength (yield strength) and deformation of the adhesive. Two kinds of spherical carbon black nanoparticles with different dielectric properties and sizes were used. Specimens with different amounts of carbon black were manufactured for each nanoparticle. The mechanical properties of the adhesive were measured in bulk specimens. The mechanical properties were found to vary as a function of the carbon black amount. For the dielectric cure, the strength and stiffness of the adhesive decrease as the amount of carbon black nanoparticles increases. On the other hand, the adhesive showed an increase of the deformation with an increase of the carbon black concentration. The thermal cure showed a mechanical behaviour similar as the dielectric cure, but the curing time increases substantially. A scanning electron microscopy analysis was performed to analyse the surface fracture of the adhesive. The fracture surfaces of specimens cured by dielectric and thermal heating and without nanoparticles are similar, typical of brittle adhesive. For high carbon black amount, the fracture surfaces are typical of ductile adhesive.
Greek NGOs in the press: Trends in the presentation of Greek NGOs before and during the financial crisis
Authors: Frangonikolopoulos Christos A , Poulakidakos Stamatis
Published: January 2016

This research is an attempt to discover diachronic trends in the presentation of Greek non-governmental organizations in two of the most influential contemporary hard-news newspapers in Greece, Kathimerini and To Vima. Drawing heavily on theories of media coverage and their relation to the non-governmental organizations, this article combines quantitative content analysis and critical discourse analysis so as to designate the crucial role of the media to the presentation of the non-governmental organizations in Greece. The research covers a wide period of 10 years (2004–2014), including several years before and during the financial crisis. Which are the main characteristics of the non-governmental organizations’ representations by the Press? Which alterations has the crisis context brought to these representations? What new forms of voluntarism has the crisis created? How does the Press ‘react’ toward the ‘insurgents’ of the non-governmental organizations field? These are some of the questions seeking answers in an under constant transformation media field.
On embracing an immanent ethics in urban planning: Pursuing our Body-without-Organs
Authors: Banville Marie-Sophie , Torres Juan
Published: January 2016

This article draws attention to urban planning’s apparent reluctance to engage with the ethical and political dimensions of Deleuze and Guattari’s thought. It puts forward the hypothesis that planning, as a discipline, is fundamentally inhospitable to the idea of autonomy, and it raises the question of whether planning can survive a radical engagement with an immanent ethics. In other words, if planning questions its close ties with the state and its assumptions about people’s capacity to live together, if it opens itself up to lines of flight, is deterritorialized, becomes imperceptible, is it still urban planning? Six proposals for an urban planning that embraces Deleuzoguattarian ethics are presented.
Lessons Learned From the Application of Mixed Methods to an International Study of Prehospital Language Barriers
Authors: Tate Ramsey C. , Hodkinson Peter W. , Sussman Andrew L.
Published: January 2016

Mixed methods research is increasingly common in emergency medical services, but methodological expertise among prehospital researchers has been found lacking. The purpose of this article is to describe unique challenges that the authors encountered in the application of mixed methods to a multisite, international study of prehospital language barriers. Lessons learned include the role of formative research in identifying cultural and organizational norms that affect researcher engagement with emergency medical service agencies, the necessity of developing approaches for member checking and assessing respondent validity, and the importance of promoting mixed methods as a rigorous methodology in international settings.
Prospective comparison of use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography in the Bosniak classification of complex renal cysts
Authors: Ragel Matthew , Nedumaran Anbu , Makowska-Webb Jolanta
Published: January 2016

Aim

To compare contrast-enhanced ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography in the evaluation of complex renal cysts using the Bosniak classification.

Methods

Forty-six patients with 51 complex renal cysts were prospectively examined using contrast-enhanced ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography and images analysed by two observers using the Bosniak classification. Adverse effects and patients’ preference were assessed for both modalities.

Results

There was complete agreement in Bosniak classification between both modalities and both observers in six cysts (11.8%). There was agreement of Bosniak classification on both modalities in 21 of 51 cysts (41.2%) for observer 1 and in 17 of 51 cysts (33.3%) for observer 2. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound gave a higher Bosniak classification than corresponding contrast-enhanced computed tomography in 31 % of cysts by both observers. Histological correlation was available in three lesions, all of which were malignant and classified as such simultaneously on both modalities by at least one observer, with remaining patients followed up with US or CT for 6–24 months. No adverse or side effects were reported following the use of US contrast, whilst 63.6% of patients suffered minor side effects following the use of CT contrast. 81.8% of the surveyed patients preferred contrast-enhanced ultrasound to contrast-enhanced computed tomography.

Conclusion

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound is a feasible tool in the evaluation of complex renal cysts in a non-specialist setting. Increased contrast-enhanced ultrasound sensitivity to enhancement compared to contrast-enhanced computed tomography, resulting in upgrading the Bosniak classification on contrast-enhanced ultrasound, has played a role in at best moderate agreement recorded by the observers with limited experience, but this would be overcome as the experience grows. To this end, we propose a standardised proforma for the contrast-enhanced ultrasound report. The benefits of contrast-enhanced ultrasound over contrast-enhanced computed tomography include patients’ preference and avoidance of ionising radiation or nephrotoxicity, as well as lower cost.
Japan’s textbook inequality: How cultural bias affects foreign language acquisition
Authors: Sherlock Zelinda
Published: January 2016

As an increasingly internationalized society, Japan’s influence globally is on the rise, especially in the lead-up to the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. However, as an internationalized country, Japanese society still harbours an ‘us’ and ‘them’ attitude, displaying discursive strategies that enable majority views to prevail. A country based on Confucian philosophy and principles, Japan is a well-ordered society where everyone appears to know their place. As is seen in this article, these ideas are reflected in English-language learning materials, where some groups are perceived as less valuable than others, allowing for surreptitious undertones to prevail within such learning resources. The prejudice and bias contained within English education textbooks in Japan, depicting minority groups at the bottom of the totem pole, are discussed, as the success of this nation should not outweigh the discrimination that exists within it. The article notes important educational policy and then provides a historical overview of English education textbooks used in Japan. It follows with a discussion of recent discursive strategies that enable the majority to present negative views about minority out-groups through a more subtle and covert rhetoric within current textbooks.
Balancing professional tension and deciding upon the status of death: Making end-of-life decisions in intensive care units
Authors: Konstantara Emmanouela , Vandrevala Tushna , Cox Anna , Creagh-Brown Benedict C , Ogden Jane
Published: January 2016

This study investigated how intensivists make decisions regarding withholding and withdrawing treatment for patients at the end of their lives. This involved completing in-depth interviews from two sites of the South of England, United Kingdom by twelve intensivists. The data collected by these intensivists were analysed using thematic analysis. This resulted in the identification of three themes: intensivists’ role, treatment effectiveness, and patients’ best interest. Transcending these were two overarching themes relating to the balance between quantity and quality of life, and the intensivists’ sense of responsibility versus burden. The results are considered in terms of making sense of death and the role of beliefs in the decision-making process.