bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cell Surface GRP78 Facilitates the Invasion of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Zhang Xiu-Xiu , Li Hong-Dan , Zhao Song , Zhao Liang , Song Hui-Juan , Wang Guan , Guo Qing-Jun , Luan Zhi-Dong , Su Rong-Jian
Published: December 2013

Invasion is a major characteristic of hepatocellular carcinoma and one of the main causes of refractory to treatment. We have previously reported that GRP78 promotes the invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma although the mechanism underlying this change remains uncertain. In this paper, we explored the role of the cell surface GRP78 in the regulation of cancer cell invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. We found that neutralization of the endogenous cell surface GRP78 with the anti-GRP78 antibody inhibited the adhesion and invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines Mahlavu and SMMC7721. However, forced expression of the cell surface GRP78 facilitated the adhesion and invasion in SMMC7721. We further demonstrated that inhibition of the endogenous cell surface GRP78 specifically inhibited the secretion and activity of MMP-2 but did not affect the secretion and activity of MMP-9. We also found that inhibition of the cell surface GRP78 increased E-Cadherin expression and decreased N-Cadherin level. On the contrary, forced expression of the cell surface GRP78 increased N-Cadherin expression and decreased E-Cadherin level, suggesting that the cell surface GRP78 plays critical role in the regulation of EMT process. These findings suggest that the cell surface GRP78 plays a stimulatory role in the invasion process and may be a potential anti-invasion target for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Evaluation of a Clinical Service Model for Dysphagia Assessment via Telerehabilitation
Authors: Ward Elizabeth C. , Burns Clare L. , Theodoros Deborah G. , Russell Trevor G.
Published: December 2013

Emerging research supports the feasibility and viability of conducting clinical swallow examinations (CSE) for patients with dysphagia via telerehabilitation. However, minimal data has been reported to date regarding the implementation of such services within the clinical setting or the user perceptions of this type of clinical service. A mixed methods study design was employed to examine the outcomes of a weekly dysphagia assessment clinic conducted via telerehabilitation and examine issues relating to service delivery and user perceptions. Data was collected across a total of 100 patient assessments. Information relating to primary patient outcomes, session statistics, patient perceptions, and clinician perceptions was examined. Results revealed that session durations averaged 45 minutes, there was minimal technical difficulty experienced, and clinical decisions made regarding primary patient outcomes were comparable between the online and face to face clinicians. Patient satisfaction was high and clinicians felt that they developed good rapport, found the system easy to use, and were satisfied with the service in over 90% of the assessments conducted. Key factors relating to screening patient suitability, having good general organization, and skilled staff were identified as facilitators for the service. This trial has highlighted important issues for consideration when planning or implementing a telerehabilitation service for dysphagia management.
RapidlyIn SituForming Platelet-Rich Plasma Gel Enhances Angiogenic Responses and Augments Early Wound Healing after Open Abdomen
Authors: Zhou Bo , Ren Jianan , Ding Chao , Wu Yin , Hu Dong , Gu Guosheng , Li Jieshou
Published: December 2013

Objective.The purposes of our present study were to evaluate the potential of platelet-rich plasma gel to enhance granulation tissue formation after open abdomen and to examine whether the effect was attributable to stimulating rapid neovascularization.Methods.Twenty-four rats underwent colon ascendens stent peritonitis surgery to induce sepsis, followed by intraperitoneal injection of nitrogen to create intra-abdominal hypertension. Four hours later, laparotomies were performed. The rats were randomized into three groups (n=8for each group): control, platelet-poor plasma (PPP), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) groups. One week after the treatment, granulation tissue formation and angiogenesis were evaluated by histological and laser Doppler analysis.Results.The resultant platelet count in platelet-rich plasma was higher than that of PPP. The concentrations of platelet-derived growth factor BB, transforming growth factorβ-1, and vascular endothelial growth factor in PRP were significantly higher when compared with that of PPP. Myofibroblast count, granulation tissue thickness, vessel numbers, and blood perfusion were increased in PRP group, followed by PPP group, with control being the least.Conclusion.Rapidlyin situforming platelet-rich plasma gel promoted remarkable neovascularization and early wound healing after open abdomen and may lead to novel and effective treatments for open abdominal wounds.
Effect of Erbium Nanoparticles on Optical Properties of Zinc Borotellurite Glass System
Authors: Muhammad Noorazlan Azlan , Mohamed Kamari Halimah , Zulkefly Siti Shafinas , Mohamad Daud W.
Published: December 2013

Erbium nanoparticles (NPs) doped zinc borotellurite glasses have been prepared by conventional melt‐quenching technique with the chemical composition (where y = 0.005, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05). The structural properties of the prepared glasses were determined via X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and FTIR analysis. It was confirmed that the prepared glasses are amorphous. The bonding parameters of the glasses were analyzed by using FTIR analysis and were confirmed to be ionic in nature. The refractive index increases as the content of erbium NPs increases. The optical absorption spectra revealed that fundamental absorption edge shifts to longer wavelength as the content of erbium NPs increases. The value of band gap had been calculated and shown to be decreased with an increase content of erbium NPs. The Urbach energy was shown to be linearly increased with an increase content of erbium NPs oxides.
Effects of Growth Hormone Administration on Muscle Strength in Men over 50 Years Old
Authors: Tavares A. B. W. , Micmacher E. , Biesek S. , Assumpção R. , Redorat R. , Veloso U. , Vaisman M. , Farinatti P. T. V. , Conceição F.
Published: December 2013

Growth hormone (GH) use has been speculated to improve physical capacity in subjects without GH deficiency (GHD) through stimulation of collagen synthesis in the tendon and skeletal muscle, which leads to better exercise training and increased muscle strength. In this context, the use of GH in healthy elderly should be an option for increasing muscle strength. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of GH therapy on muscle strength in healthy men over 50 years old. Fourteen healthy men aged 50–70 years were evaluated at baseline for body composition and muscle strength (evaluated by leg press and bench press exercises, which focus primarily on quadriceps—lower body part and pectoralis major—upper body part—muscles, resp.). Subjects were randomised into 2 groups: GH therapy (7 subjects) and placebo (7 subjects) and reevaluated after 6 months of therapy. Thirteen subjects completed the study (6 subjects in the placebo group and 7 subjects in the GH group). Subjects of both groups were not different at baseline. After 6 months of therapy, muscle strength in the bench press responsive muscles did not increase in both groups and showed a statistically significant increase in the leg press responsive muscles in the GH group. Our study demonstrated an increase in muscle strength in the lower body part after GH therapy in healthy men. This finding must be considered and tested in frail older populations, whose physical incapacity is primarily caused by proximal muscle weakness. The trial was registered withNCT01853566.
Recent Developments on Wireless Sensor Networks Technology for Bridge Health Monitoring
Authors: Zhou Guang-Dong , Yi Ting-Hua
Published: December 2013

Structural health monitoring (SHM) systems have shown great potential to sense the responses of a bridge system, diagnose the current structural conditions, predict the expected future performance, provide information for maintenance, and validate design hypotheses. Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) that have the benefits of reducing implementation costs of SHM systems as well as improving data processing efficiency become an attractive alternative to traditional tethered sensor systems. This paper introduces recent technology developments in the field of bridge health monitoring using WSNs. As a special application of WSNs, the requirements and characteristics of WSNs when used for bridge health monitoring are firstly briefly discussed. Then, the state of the art in WSNs-based bridge health monitoring systems is reviewed including wireless sensor, network topology, data processing technology, power management, and time synchronization. Following that, the performance validations and applications of WSNs in bridge health monitoring through scale models and field deployment are presented. Finally, some existing problems and promising research efforts for promoting applications of WSNs technology in bridge health monitoring throughout the world are explored.
Bedside Teaching in Australian Clinical Schools: A National Study
Authors: Indraratna Praveen L. , Greenup Louise C. , Yang Timothy X.
Published: December 2013

Purpose. Bedside teaching (BST) of medical students has become less common in recent years; however, there have been strong recommendations made in the literature to continue this teaching modality for the valued benefits it provides. The purpose of the present study is to explore the perceptions and opinions of bedside teaching among senior Australian medical students.Methods. Medical students at Australian universities were surveyed by means of an electronic questionnaire. The results were collected and analysed.Results. A total of 517 responses were received from students at 15 universities and 94 different clinical sites. The percentage of students who identified BST as very important ranged from 62.5% in psychiatry to 90.4% in internal medicine. The optimal class size was nominated as 3-4 students, and students favoured a style where one individual performs a complete examination, with the remainder allowed to elicit the key sign afterwards. Students felt 3-4 hours of BST per week to be ideal. Advantages identified to BST included provision of feedback and elicitation of clinical signs. Disadvantages included time constraints and excessive class sizes.Conclusions. The unique benefits of BST result in its high demand by students, regardless of the discipline being taught.
ZSM-5-SO3H: An Efficient Catalyst for Acylation of Sulfonamides Amines, Alcohols, and Phenols under Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Massah Ahmad Reza , Kalbasi Roozbeh Javad , Khalifesoltani Mahdiehsadat , Moshtagh Kordesofla Fariba
Published: December 2013

Sulfonamides amines, alcohols, and phenols were efficiently acylated with carboxylic acid anhydrides and chlorides using ZSM-5-SO3H as catalyst under mild and solvent-free conditions. Also, direct esterification of alcohols with carboxylic acids occurred readily in the presence of this catalyst. Different types of amides and esters were obtained in moderate to high yields and purity after a simple workup. No chromatographic separation is needed for isolation of the acylated product. The catalyst was recovered and reused for up to four times without a noticeable decrease in catalytic activity.
Time-Frequency Analysis of Horizontal Vibration for Vehicle-Track System Based on Hilbert-Huang Transform
Authors: Li Zaiwei , Lian Songliang , He Yuelei
Published: December 2013

Relationship between track alignment irregularity and car body horizontal vibration acceleration is analyzed by using Hilbert-Huang Transform (HHT). Actual measured alignment irregularity and car body horizontal vibration acceleration are decomposed by empirical mode decomposition (EMD) to obtain intrinsic mode function (IMF). By comparing IMF waveform and energy spectrum of the irregularity and vibration acceleration, there is the definitive correspondence of IMFs, and the adverse section of irregularity can be identified from car body horizontal vibration acceleration. Finally, regression analysis is taken for measured sample of track inspection car on Beijing-Guangzhou line; the quantitative relationship between track alignment irregularity and car body horizontal vibration acceleration is established with a wavelength between 1.5 m and 50 m.
Simultaneous Identification of Moving Vehicles and Bridge Damages Considering Road Rough Surface
Authors: Zhang Qingxia , Jankowski Łukasz , Duan Zhongdong
Published: December 2013

A method for the simultaneous identification of moving vehicles and the damages of the supporting structure from measured responses is presented. A two-axle vehicle model with two degrees of freedom (DOF) is adopted. The extent of the damage and the vehicle parameters were chosen as the optimisation variables, which allow ill conditioning to be avoided and decrease the number of sensors required. The identification is performed by minimising the distance between the measured responses and the computed responses to given optimisation variables. The virtual distortion method (VDM) was used, such that the response of the damaged structure can be computed from comparison with the intact structure subjected to the same vehicle excitation and to the response-coupled virtual distortions. These are related to the optimisation variables by the system impulse response matrix and are expressed by a linear system, which allowed both types of optimisation variables to be treated in a unified way. The numerical cost is reduced by using a moving influence matrix. The adjoint variable method is used for fast sensitivity analysis. A three-span bridge numerical example is presented, where the identification was verified with 5% root mean square (RMS) measurement, and model, error whilst also considering the surface roughness of the road.
Throughput Optimization via Cooperative Spectrum Sensing with Novel Frame Structure
Authors: Hu Hang , Zhang Hang , Yu Hong , Jafarian Javad
Published: December 2013

In cognitive radio (CR) networks, cooperation can greatly improve the performance of spectrum sensing. In this paper, we propose a novel cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) frame structure in which CR users conduct spectrum sensing and data transmission concurrently over two different parts of the primary user (PU) spectrum band. Energy detection sensing scheme is used to prove that there exists an optimal sensing bandwidth which yields the highest throughput for the CR network. Thus, we focus on the optimal sensing settings of the proposed sensing scheme in order to maximize the throughput of the CR network under the conditions of sufficient protection to PUs and required bandwidth for potential CR user data transmission. Some algorithms are also derived to jointly optimize the sensing bandwidth and the final decision threshold. Our simulation results show that optimizing the sensing bandwidth and the final decision threshold together will further increase the throughput of the CR network as compared to that which only optimizes the sensing bandwidth or the final decision threshold.
Estimates of Aerosol Indirect Effect from Terra MODIS over Republic of Korea
Authors: Jung Woon-Seon , Panicker A. S. , Lee Dong-In , Park Sung-Hwa
Published: December 2013

Moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) data have been analyzed over four different regions (Yellow sea, Korean inland, East Sea, and South Sea) in Republic of Korea to investigate the seasonal variability of aerosol-cloud properties and aerosol indirect effect during the past decade (2000–2009). Aerosol optical depth (AOD) was found to be consistently high during spring. Cloud ice radius (CIR) also showed higher values during spring, while an enhancement in cloud water radius (CWR) and fine mode fraction (FMF) was observed during summer. AOD and aerosol index (AI) were found to be higher during January to June. However, FMF and CWR showed enhancement during July to December. Aerosol indirect effect (AIE) in each year has been estimated and found to be showing positive and negative indirect effects. The AIE for fixed cloud ice path (CIP) showed positive indirect effect (Twomey effect) over Yellow sea, while the AIE for fixed cloud water path (CWP) showed a major negative indirect effect (anti-Twomey effect) over all regions. During Changma (summer monsoon) period, the AIE for both CIP and CWP showed dominant anti-Twomey effect in middle and low level clouds, indicating the growth of cloud droplet radius with changes in aerosols, enhancing the precipitation.
Computational Modelling and Similarity Reduction of Equations for Transient Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer with Variable Properties
Authors: Moitsheki R. J. , Makinde O. D.
Published: December 2013

We consider a system of coupled partial differential equations describing transient fluid flow and heat transfer with variable flow properties. Classical Lie point symmetry analysis of this system resulted in admitted large Lie algebras for some special cases of the arbitrary constants and the source term. Symmetry reductions are performed and as such the system of partial differential equations is reduced to the system of ordinary differential equations. Some reduced ordinary differential equation could be solved exactly with restrictions on the parameters appearing in it. In addition, shooting quadrature is employed to numerically tackle the nonlinear model boundary value problem and pertinent results are presented graphically and discussed quantitatively.
Some Weighted Estimates for Multilinear Fourier Multiplier Operators
Authors: Si Zengyan
Published: December 2013

We first provide a weighted Fourier multiplier theorem for multilinear operators which extends Theorem 1.2 in Fujita and Tomita (2012) by usingLr-based Sobolev spaces (1<r≤2). Then, by using a different method, we obtain a result parallel to Theorem 6.2 which is an improvement of Theorem 1.2 under assumption (i) in Fujita and Tomita (2012).
Addressing Genetic Tumor Heterogeneity through Computationally Predictive Combination Therapy
Authors: Zhao Boyang , Pritchard Justin R. , Lauffenburger Douglas A. , Hemann Michael T.
Published: December 2013

Recent tumor sequencing data suggest an urgent need to develop a methodology to directly address intratumoral heterogeneity in the design of anticancer treatment regimens. We use RNA interference to model heterogeneous tumors, and demonstrate successful validation of computational predictions for how optimized drug combinations can yield superior effects on these tumors both in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, we discover here that for many such tumors knowledge of the predominant subpopulation is insufficient for determining the best drug combination. Surprisingly, in some cases, the optimal drug combination does not include drugs that would treat any particular subpopulation most effectively, challenging straightforward intuition. We confirm examples of such a case with survival studies in a murine preclinical lymphoma model. Altogether, our approach provides new insights about design principles for combination therapy in the context of intratumoral diversity, data that should inform the development of drug regimens superior for complex tumors.

Significance: This study provides the first example of how combination drug regimens, using existing chemotherapies, can be rationally designed to maximize tumor cell death, while minimizing the outgrowth of clonal subpopulations. Cancer Discov; 4(2); 166–74. ©2013 AACR.

See related commentary by Fedele et al., p. 146

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 131
Clinical Reminders to Providers of Patients With Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Increase Defibrillator Referral
Authors: Gupta Anurag , Gholami Parisa , Turakhia Mintu P. , Friday Karen , Heidenreich Paul A.
Published: December 2013

Background—

Many patients who are candidates for implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are not referred for potential implantation. We sought to determine if a simple provider reminder would increase referrals.

Methods and Results—

We identified consecutive patients from January 2007 through July 2010 in the VA Palo Alto Health Care System with a left ventricular ejection fraction <35% on echocardiography. Patients were excluded using available administrative data only (no chart review) if they were known to have an ICD, if they were ≥80 years old, or if they did not have a current primary care or cardiology provider within the system. We randomized patients to no intervention or a clinical note to the provider in the medical record. The outcomes were referral for consideration of defibrillator implantation (primary) and documented discussion (secondary). Of 330 patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35%, 128 were known to have an ICD, 85 were no longer followed in the healthcare system, and 28 were ≥80 years old, leaving 89 patients to be randomized. Forty-six patients were randomized to intervention and 43 to control. Eleven of 46 (24%) intervention patients were referred for consideration of ICD implantation during the following 6 months versus 1 of 43 (2%) control patients (
P
=0.004). Overall, 31 of 46 (67%) intervention patients versus 19 of 43 (44%) control patients had documentation discussing potential candidacy for defibrillators (
P
=0.05).

Conclusions—

In patients with low left ventricular ejection fraction, a simple electronic medical record–based intervention directed to their providers improved the rates of referral for ICD implantation.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01217827.
Lloyd’s Orthodoxy
Authors: Venezia Luciano
Published: December 2013

In this paper, I will show that Lloyd’s reading of Hobbes’s account of political obedience is substantially similar to the mainstream philosophical interpretation. In particular, both include an “orthodox” interpretation of Hobbes’s political and legal philosophy. On the orthodox interpretation, the reasonableness of a choice is determined by the “weight” or “balance” of reasons. Subjects have reason to obey the law because so acting best satisfies their different desires and interests. I will argue that the practical reasoning that takes into consideration transcendent interests, and the reasoning that takes into account mundane interests, are structurally similar. The difference between them lies in the fact that transcendent interests always outweigh other first-order considerations, whilst the relative weight of mundane interests always enters into a calculation of the “balance” of reasons to be assessed each time.
Emergency Medical Equipment Storage
Authors: Grundgeiger Tobias , Harris Bonnie , Ford Nicholas , Abbey Michael , Sanderson Penelope M. , Venkatesh Balasubramanian
Published: December 2013

Objective:

We tested the effectiveness of an illustrated divider (“the divider”) for bedside emergency equipment drawers in an intensive care unit (ICU). In Study 1, we assessed whether the divider increases completeness and standardizes the locations of emergency equipment within the drawer. In Study 2, we investigated whether the divider decreases nurses’ restocking and retrieval times and decreases their workload.

Background:

Easy access to fully stocked emergency equipment is important during emergencies. However, inefficient equipment storage and cognitively demanding work settings might mean that drawers are incompletely stocked and access to items is slow.

Method:

A pre-post-post study investigated drawer completeness and item locations before and after the introduction of the divider to 30 ICU drawers. A subsequent experiment measured item restocking time, item retrieval time, and subjective workload for nurses.

Results:

At 2 weeks and 10 weeks after the divider was introduced, the completeness of the drawer increased significantly compared with before the divider was introduced. The divider decreased the variability of the locations of the 17 items in the drawer to 16% of its original value. Study 2 showed that restocking times but not retrieval times were significantly faster with the divider present. For both tasks, nurses rated their workload lower with the divider.

Conclusions:

The divider improved the standardization and completeness of emergency equipment. In addition, restocking times and workload were decreased with the divider.

Application:

Redesigning storage for certain equipment using human factors design principles can help to speed and standardize restocking and ease access to equipment.
Time-varying nonsingular terminal sliding mode control for robot manipulators
Authors: Geng Jie , Sheng Yongzhi , Liu Xiangdong
Published: December 2013

In this paper, a time-varying nonsingular terminal sliding mode (T-NTSM) controller is proposed and modified for the rigid robot manipulators with parametric uncertainties and external disturbances. First, in order to eliminate the reaching phase, a novel T-NTSM manifold is proposed by incorporating a piecewise defined function of time into a nonsingular terminal sliding mode manifold. Then a T-NTSM controller is derived from such a sliding surface, by which the robustness is ensured during the entire response of the system, and the convergence time can be chosen in advance. An especially effective method is provided for parameter selection to meet the convergence time requirement. Subsequently, a modified T-NTSM controller is proposed to enhance performance by introducing a time-varying gain in the proposed T-NTSM manifold. The modified controller ensures faster convergence rate and smaller control input amplitude. Finally, the proposed controllers are applied in the control of a two-link manipulator. All of the simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control methods.
Consensus for nonlinear multi-agent systems with sampled data
Authors: Ma Qian , Lu Junwei , Xu Huiling
Published: December 2013

This paper deals with the consensus problems of multi-agent systems with nonlinear dynamics and sampled data information. The control input of each agent is based on the information of its neighbors at discrete sampling instants rather than the whole continuous process. An input delay approach is utilized to transform the sampling data into the time-varying delayed data. A novel time-dependent Lyapunov functional consisting of the continuous term and the discontinuous term is proposed. Tools like matrix theory, algebraic graph theory, relaxed matrix approach, and convex analysis technique are utilized to derive the sufficient conditions. The estimated upper bound of the sampling interval can be obtained by the proposed conditions. Then, the necessary and sufficient conditions for consensus in systems with linear dynamics are presented. It is shown that the consensus conditions depend on the parameters of the sampling interval, spectra of the Laplacian matrix, and coupling strength. The effectiveness of the proposed design method is demonstrated by the simulation examples.
Otolaryngology: “It's All Greek to Me”
Authors: Jackler Robert K. , Mudry Albert
Published: December 2013

This study explores the origins and evolution of the specialty name for what is now primarily known in the English‐speaking world as otolaryngology–head and neck surgery. This appellation is the longest and least pronounceable of all medical specialties. While it is reasonably well understood among medical professionals, surveys show that only a small fraction of health consumers understand its meaning. The ideal medical specialty name should have a meaning recognizable to a large segment of the public, be easily pronounceable, be reasonably short, and serve to communicate the type of illnesses treated. The cumbersomeness of the specialty name has led to nearly universal use of informal substitutes, which do not covey the scope of contemporary practice (eg, ear, nose, and throat) and to abbreviations (eg, ENT, ORL, OHNS). Based on the commercial experience, it is clear that shorter is better. The authors advocate that dialog be opened, guided by the experience from instances of successful corporate rebranding, to consider possible alternatives.
Transaxillary access to aortopulmonary window and paraaortic nodes
Authors: Terzi Alberto , Viti Andrea , Bertolaccini Luca
Published: December 2013

A minimally invasive video-assisted thoracic surgery procedure to biopsy paraaortic and aortopulmonary window nodes is presented. In contrast to the standard 3-ports procedure, the transaxillary route we describe allows very good visualization of these anatomical zones. This procedure is safe and quick, and also cosmetic and painless.
Tuning in to the RTLM
Authors: Roozen Brittnea , Shulman Hillary C.
Published: December 2013

Transcripts from radio broadcasts that aired in pre-, early-, and late-genocide Rwanda were content analyzed from a social identity theory perspective to examine whether language use was consistent with theoretical predictions. The data yielded by these analyses ( N = 59) are noteworthy because the broadcasters on this station were eventually charged with war crimes for inciting and endorsing the violence between the Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups. The results from this study found that the transcripts contained language in support of theory such that the Tutsi out-group was increasingly dehumanized as the conflict escalated, the Tutsi were blamed for their fate—while the Hutu were presented as victims of the violence, and an overt prejudice that was initially directed at Tutsi rebel group grew to include all Tutsi people near the end of this conflict. These data provide compelling support for the communication processes that arise within intergroup conflict situations and support the continued application of social identity theory to real-world situations.
Knowledge application in Ghanaian industries
Authors: Boateng Henry , Narteh Bedman
Published: December 2013

The study sought to ascertain the factors influencing knowledge application in Ghanaian industries. The study employed a survey technique as the research design. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to select 300 respondents. Questionnaire was the main data collection tool. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and factor analysis. The study found that organizational culture, trust and absorptive capacity are the factors influencing knowledge application in Ghanaian industries. The strategic implications of the findings are discussed in the paper.
Acute Type-A aortic dissection with patent false lumen through to the abdominal aorta: effects of a conventional elephant trunk on malperfusion syndromes and narrowed true lumen
Authors: Imura H , Tanoue M , Shibata M , Maruyama Y , Shirakawa M , Ochi M
Published: December 2013

Background:

Narrowed true lumen and patent false lumen through to the terminal aorta is a high-risk condition for malperfusion syndromes (MS) in acute type-A aortic dissection. It is important to ascertain how the true and false lumens behave after surgery.

Patients and Methods:

We retrospectively investigated 45 patients with this pathology. The true lumen sizes at the narrowest levels above and below the superior mesenteric artery were followed by computed tomography after surgery (0-36 months).

Results:

Thirty-seven MS were seen in 23 patients. Hospital mortality was 8.9%. The narrowed true lumen was not enlarged in the first 6 months with a patent false lumen. The elephant trunk procedure did not improve the true lumen size. An extremely narrowed (≤3mm) true lumen was associated with a significantly high incidence of MS and mortality.

Conclusions:

High incidences of MS were observed in this particular pathology. An extremely narrowed true lumen was accompanied by a high incidence of MS and mortality.
Neoplasms of the Urinary Tract in Fish
Authors: Lombardini E. D. , Hard G. C. , Harshbarger J. C.
Published: December 2013

The veterinary literature contains scattered reports of primary tumors of the urinary tract of fish, dating back to 1906. Many of the more recent reports have been described in association with the Registry of Tumors in Lower Animals, and most of the spontaneous neoplasms of the kidney and urinary bladder are single case reports. In rare instances, such as described in nephroblastomas of Japanese eels and tubular adenomas/adenocarcinomas of Oscars, there is suggestion of a genetic predisposition of certain populations to specific renal neoplasms, environmental carcinogenesis, or potentially an unknown infectious etiology acting as a promoter. Hematopoeitic neoplasms have been infrequently described as primary to the kidney of a variety of fish species, and therefore those case reports of renal lymphoma and plasmacytic leukemia are addressed within the context of this review.
Repair Integrity and Functional Outcome After Arthroscopic Conversion to a Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tear
Authors: Kim Kyung Cheon , Shin Hyun Dae , Cha Soo Min , Park Jun Yeong
Published: December 2013

Background:

A few studies have compared high-grade partial-thickness articular- and bursal-side rotator cuff tears postoperatively.

Purpose:

To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of high-grade partial-thickness rotator cuff tears treated with arthroscopic conversion to full-thickness tears, followed by repair.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Forty-three consecutive shoulders with high-grade partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (20 articular- and 23 bursal-side lesions) treated with arthroscopic conversion to full-thickness tears, followed by repair using the suture-bridge technique, were evaluated. The final functional evaluation was conducted at a mean of 35.53 months (range, 24-54 months). Radiological outcomes were evaluated at a minimum of 1 year postoperatively. The following outcome measures were used in this study: the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Rating Scale, the Constant score, and range of motion.

Results:

At the final follow-up, the mean ASES, UCLA, and Constant scores improved significantly to 91.80, 32.70, and 75.85, respectively, in the articular-side group (all P < .001). The mean ASES, UCLA, and Constant scores improved significantly to 90.80, 32.52, and 83.00, respectively, in the bursal-side group (all P < .001). The UCLA and ASES scores did not differ significantly between the 2 groups ( P = .821 and .869, respectively), while the Constant scores did ( P = .048). The retear rate was 0% in the articular-side group and 9.5% in the bursal-side group; this difference was not significant ( P = .204).

Conclusion:

The arthroscopic repair of partial-thickness bursal-side tears resulted in comparable or superior postoperative functional outcomes compared with that of articular-side tears. However, the postoperative retear rate did not differ significantly between the 2 groups.
Investigating the elastic deformation of wood–plastic composites at cold temperature using the bubble inflation technique
Authors: Fini Soroush HA , Erchiqui Fouad , Farzaneh Masoud
Published: December 2013

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the development of wood–plastic composites (WPC) for use as building materials. Using wood as natural reinforcement in composite materials, instead of mineral reinforcements, has several advantages such as low density, low cost, and less abrasive finish. The natural reinforcements are also non-toxic and recyclable. The wide variety of WPCs makes it difficult to discuss the performance of these composites. In this research, the bubble inflation technique, introduced by Joye et al., is used to study the behaviour of biocomposite materials in cold temperatures. The results of experiments with high-density polyethylene and WPC membranes with 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 wt% of wood fibre, under the combined effect of temperature and pressure are presented. The membranes are tested under the maximum pressure of 18 psi within the temperature range of −50C to +50°C with 25°C increments.
Adverse Drug Events in Critically Ill Patients With Cancer
Authors: Nazer Lama H. , Hawari Feras , Al-Najjar Taghreed
Published: December 2013

Objective:

To determine the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of adverse drug events (ADEs) in critically ill patients with cancer.

Methods:

This was a 5-month prospective observational study. Patients who were admitted to the adult medical/surgical oncology intensive care unit (ICU) were evaluated for any drug-related adverse events during their ICU stay. An ADE was defined as injury or patient harm resulting from medical intervention related to a drug.

Results:

The incidence rate of ADEs was 96.5 per 1000 patient days and 35.3 per 100 ICU admissions. Of the reported ADEs, 57 (64.8%) were serious/life threatening, 30 (34.1%) were significant, 1 (1.1%) was fatal, and 14 (15.9%) of all ADEs were considered preventable. The most common drug classes associated with ADEs were antidiabetics, antibiotics, and analgesics/sedatives. The length of stay and presence of renal or respiratory failure were significantly associated with an increased number of ADEs. The length of stay and female sex were significantly associated with the likelihood of developing an ADE.

Conclusion:

Critically ill patients with cancer are at high risk of developing ADEs. Strategies that reduce the incidence and severity of ADEs are essential to improve the outcomes of this patient population.
Nonconscious Emotional Activation Colors First Impressions
Authors: Lapate Regina C. , Rokers Bas , Li Tianyi , Davidson Richard J.
Published: December 2013

Emotions can color people’s attitudes toward unrelated objects in the environment. Existing evidence suggests that such emotional coloring is particularly strong when emotion-triggering information escapes conscious awareness. But is emotional reactivity stronger after nonconscious emotional provocation than after conscious emotional provocation, or does conscious processing specifically change the association between emotional reactivity and evaluations of unrelated objects? In this study, we independently indexed emotional reactivity and coloring as a function of emotional-stimulus awareness to disentangle these accounts. Specifically, we recorded skin-conductance responses to spiders and fearful faces, along with subsequent preferences for novel neutral faces during visually aware and unaware states. Fearful faces increased skin-conductance responses comparably in both stimulus-aware and stimulus-unaware conditions. Yet only when visual awareness was precluded did skin-conductance responses to fearful faces predict decreased likability of neutral faces. These findings suggest a regulatory role for conscious awareness in breaking otherwise automatic associations between physiological reactivity and evaluative emotional responses.
Causal inference with missing exposure information: Methods and applications to an obstetric study
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Liu Wei , Zhang Bo , Tang Li , Zhang Jun
Published: December 2013

Causal inference in observational studies is frequently challenged by the occurrence of missing data, in addition to confounding. Motivated by the Consortium on Safe Labor, a large observational study of obstetric labor practice and birth outcomes, this article focuses on the problem of missing exposure information in a causal analysis of observational data. This problem can be approached from different angles (i.e. missing covariates and causal inference), and useful methods can be obtained by drawing upon the available techniques and insights in both areas. In this article, we describe and compare a collection of methods based on different modeling assumptions, under standard assumptions for missing data (i.e. missing-at-random and positivity) and for causal inference with complete data (i.e. no unmeasured confounding and another positivity assumption). These methods involve three models: one for treatment assignment, one for the dependence of outcome on treatment and covariates, and one for the missing data mechanism. In general, consistent estimation of causal quantities requires correct specification of at least two of the three models, although there may be some flexibility as to which two models need to be correct. Such flexibility is afforded by doubly robust estimators adapted from the missing covariates literature and the literature on causal inference with complete data, and by a newly developed triply robust estimator that is consistent if any two of the three models are correct. The methods are applied to the Consortium on Safe Labor data and compared in a simulation study mimicking the Consortium on Safe Labor.
Evaluating School Wellness Policy in Curbing Childhood Obesity in Anchorage, Alaska
Authors: Parsons Wendy G. , Garcia Gabriel M. , Hoffman Pamela K.
Published: December 2013

In 2006, the Anchorage School District implemented a school wellness policy to address the problem of obesity among its elementary-aged students. We assessed whether the addition of this policy is effective in protecting or preventing students from becoming overweight/obese over time. The methods involved following two cohorts of students for 5 years, a cohort not exposed and a cohort exposed to the policy. The results show that exposure to the policy does not significantly protect or prevent students from becoming overweight/obese. However, we found that regardless of being exposed to the policy, boys (odds ratio [OR] = 1.12), ethnic minorities, (OR = 1.18), and students from low socioeconomic backgrounds (OR = 1.44) were more likely to remain or become overweight/obese. Our findings suggest that factors outside the school may be impacting students’ overweight/obese status. Efforts to curb the problem of childhood obesity should extend to the children’s communities and homes.
Searching for a Mobilizing Narrative on Climate Change
Authors: Jerneck Anne
Published: December 2013

Global environmental change is real and everywhere, and so is inequality. Such a warmer, stormier, and divided world will create highly differentiated socioecological impacts and responses to climate change with stronger effects on people, places, and livelihoods that contributed the least. This necessitates mitigation, adaptation, and a solid understanding of their interactions with persistent problems such as poverty because uneven distribution of impacts and responses may reinforce existing inequality and vulnerability. Within a frame of political ecology, sociology, and sustainability science and informed by three transnational discourses—sustainability, development, and globalization—this article suggests a mobilizing narrative to think and act. In this format, the narrative must include direction (toward sustainability), distribution (global inclusiveness), and diversity (multiple approaches, methods, and solutions). It must also support arenas for multiscalar dialogs and practices while aiming to replace deep divisiveness and distorted understandings that prevent the emergence of just and synergetic responses to climate change.
The brand personality of rocks
Authors: Avis Mark , Forbes Sarah , Ferguson Shelagh
Published: December 2013

Aaker’s (1997) brand personality (BP) scale is widely used in research and is an important foundation for the theory of BP. Building on extant critiques of the scale, this article considers the possibility that Aaker’s (1997) scale methodology ‘creates’ the BP that it measures. Using pictures of rocks as stimuli, this article applies the principles of Aaker’s methodology to examine the BP of rocks. Rocks are the chosen stimuli as they do not have any obvious commonalities with brands, or have antecedents to BP formation. Findings revealed that each of the rock stimuli has a distinct BP and that the personality is developed from sometimes surprisingly detailed personifications. In consideration of the importance of Aaker’s scale in the development of the BP concept, the findings raise questions about its conceptualisation and emphasises the importance of critical examination of the methods used to measure marketing concepts.
The Reliability of Retrospective Data on Asset Ownership as a Measure of Past Household Wealth
Authors: Mullan Katrina , Sills Erin , Bauch Simone
Published: December 2013

Asset ownership is frequently used to assess the welfare status of households in rural areas of developing countries. Researchers often want to know the prior status of households or how that status has changed over time. In a case study in the Brazilian Amazon, we compare recall data with contemporary reports on assets from a panel survey. We consider multiple dimensions of the consistency of retrospective and contemporary data and seek to identify characteristics that lead to more accurate recall. We find that although retrospective data provide some information on past assets owned by households, they do not provide a highly accurate measure of either individual asset ownership or counts of types of assets owned. Consistent with previous studies, we find that items with greater salience are recalled more accurately. We also find that wealthier households exhibit upward bias when recalling assets owned in a previous period.
Randomized Trial of a Robotic Assistive Device for the Upper Extremity During Early Inpatient Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Masiero Stefano , Armani Mario , Ferlini Gregorio , Rosati Giulio , Rossi Aldo
Published: December 2013

Background. A recent Cochrane Review showed that early robotic training of the upper limb in stroke survivors can be more effective than other interventions when improving activities of daily living involving the arm function is the aim of therapy. Objective. We tested for efficacy of the study a protocol which involved the use of the NeReBot therapy in partial substitution of standard upper limb rehabilitation in post–acute stroke patients. Methods. In this dose-matched, randomized controlled clinical trial, 34 hemiparetic participants with movement against gravity in shoulder, elbow, and wrist muscle groups were enrolled within 15 days of the onset of stroke. All participants received a total daily rehabilitation treatment for 120 minutes, 5 days per week for 5 weeks. The control group received standard therapy for the upper limb. The experimental group received standard therapy (65% of exercise time) associated with robotic training (35% of exercise time). Muscle tone (Modified Ashworth Scale), strength (Medical Research Council), and synergism (Fugl-Meyer motor scores) were measured at impairment level, whereas dexterity (Box and Block Test and Frenchay Arm Test) and activities of daily living (Functional Independence Measure) were measured at activity level. All assessments were performed at baseline, at the end of therapy (time T1), at 3 months (time T2), and at 7 months (time T3) after entry. All between-group analyses were tested using nonparametric test with Bonferroni’s adjustments for multiple testing. Results. No significant between-group differences were found with respect to demographic characteristics, motor, dexterity, and ADLs at baseline, postintervention (T1) and at follow-up (T2 and T3). Conclusions. The robot therapy by NeReBot did not lead to better outcomes compared with conventional inpatient rehabilitation.
A novel small molecule inhibitor of deubiquitylating enzyme USP14 and UCHL5 induces apoptosis in multiple myeloma and overcomes bortezomib resistance
Authors: Tian Ze , D’Arcy Padraig , Wang Xin , Ray Arghya , Tai Yu-Tzu , Hu Yiguo , Carrasco Ruben D. , Richardson Paul , Linder Stig , Chauhan Dharminder , Anderson Kenneth C.
Published: December 2013

Key Points

Deubiquitylating enzymes USP14 and UCHL5 are involved in the tumorigenesis of MM. b-AP15 is a specific USP14 and UCHL5 inhibitor, which blocks growth and induces apoptosis in MM cells.