bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consequence of hyperhomocysteinaemia on α1-adrenoceptor-mediated contraction in the rat corpus cavernosum: the role of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Côco Hariane , Pernomian Larissa , Marchi Katia C , Gomes Mayara S , de Andrade Cláudia R , Ramalho Leandra N Z , Tirapelli Carlos R , de Oliveira Ana M
Published: January 2016

Objectives

Our main objective was to investigate the mechanisms underlying the effects of hyperhomocysteinaemia (HHcy) on contractile response mediated by α1-adrenoceptors in the rat corpus cavernosum.

Methods

Concentration-response curves for phenylephrine (PE) were obtained in strips of corpus cavernosum, in absence or after incubation with tiron, tempol or polyethylene glycol (PEG)-catalase combined or not with tempol. We also measured the superoxide anion (O2−) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity and α-actin expression in rat corpus cavernosum from both groups.

Key findings

HHcy increased PE-induced contraction in cavernosal strips. Tiron, PEG-catalase or tempol increased PE-induced contraction in strips from control rats, but it was not altered by tiron or PEG-catalase in HHcy rats, whereas tempol reduced this response. The combination of PEG-catalase and tempol did not alter the contractile response to PE in both groups. HHcy increased O2− generation and SOD activity, whereas H2O2 concentration was reduced. Finally, HHcy did not alter catalase activity or expression of α-actin.

Conclusions

The major new finding from this study is that HHcy induced a marked increase in PE-induced contraction in rat corpus cavernosum by a mechanism that involves increased O2− generation and it could play a role in the pathogenesis of erectile dysfunction associated with HHcy.
In vivo wound healing activity of gels containing Cecropia pachystachya leaves
Authors: Duque Ana Paula do Nascimento , Pinto Nícolas de Castro Campos , Mendes Renata de Freitas , da Silva Josiane Mello , Aragão Danielle Maria de Oliveira , Castañon Maria Christina Marques Nogueira , Scio Elita
Published: January 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the in-vivo wound healing and in-vitro antioxidant activity of gels containing the ethyl acetate extract of Cecropia pachystachya (ECP) 2% and 5%, and to perform the chemical fingerprint of ECP by HPLC-DAD.

Methods

The wound healing activity of the gels was evaluated for 21 days, using the excision model in rats followed by histopathological and histomorphometric analysis. The in-vitro antioxidant effect of ECP was investigated using 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, reducing power, β-carotene bleaching and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assays. Also, a HPLC analysis was performed to identify the chemical markers orientin, iso-orientin and chlorogenic acid.

Key findings

The group of animals treated with ECP 5% presented oedema and inflammatory infiltrate with less intensity than the other groups. Both ECP 2% and 5% gels showed less neovascularization and cellularity, and better tissue repair when compared to the control, which showed a younger and homogeneous tissue.

Conclusions

This study had demonstrated that the ECP gels promoted the acceleration of the healing process when compared to the control group. Wound contraction, angiogenesis, epithelialization and the collagen deposition support further evaluation of C. pachystachya leaves in the topical treatment and management of skin wounds.
Pharmacokinetics of centhaquin citrate in a rat model
Authors: O'Donnell J Nicholas , Gulati Anil , Lavhale Manish S , Sharma Shyam S , Patel Arjun J , Rhodes Nathaniel J , Scheetz Marc H
Published: January 2016

Objective

Centhaquin citrate is a novel agent being developed for use in the treatment of haemorrhagic shock. It has decreased mortality in rat, rabbit and pig models of hypovolaemic shock compared to hypertonic saline and lactated Ringer's resuscitation. The pharmacokinetics of centhaquin citrate have not been described to date.

Methods

Sixteen male Sprague Dawley rats were given an intravenous bolus of 0.45 mg/kg centhaquin citrate. Rats were divided into two groups; plasma concentrations were measured at five time points for each group within 24 h after administration. Competing compartmental pharmacokinetic models were assessed. The nonparametric adaptive grid function within the Pmetrics package for R was used for parameter estimation. Predicted concentrations were calculated using population median and individual Bayesian posterior parameters.

Key Findings

A two-compartment model of centhaquin citrate best fit the data. Median (IQR) values for elimination coefficient (Ke), volume of distribution (V) and intercompartmental transfer rates (Kcp,  Kpc) were 8.8 (5.2–12.8) h−1, 6.4 (2.8–10.4) l, 11.9 (4.6–15.0) h−1 and 3.7 (2.3–9.1) h−1, respectively.

Conclusion

This is the first report of the pharmacokinetic parameters of centhaquin citrate in a rat model. Centhaquin citrate was found to have a short half-life with a large volume of distribution.
Flubendazole induces mitotic catastrophe and senescence in colon cancer cells in vitro
Authors: Králová Věra , Hanušová Veronika , Rudolf Emil , Čáňová Kristýna , Skálová Lenka
Published: January 2016

Objectives

Flubendazole (FLU), a member of benzimidazole family of anthelmintic drugs, is able to inhibit proliferation of various cancer cells. The aim of present study was to elucidate the mechanisms of antiproliferative effect of FLU on colorectal cancer cells in vitro.

Methods

The effect of FLU on proliferation, microtubular network, DNA content, caspase activation and senescence induction was studied in SW480 and SW620 cell lines.

Key findings

Flubendazole significantly affected cell proliferation in a pattern typical for mitotic inhibitor. This was accompanied by decrease in cyclin D1 levels, increase in cyclin B1 levels, activation of caspase 2 and caspase 3/7 and PARP cleavage. Morphological observations revealed disruption of microtubular network, irregular mitotic spindles, formation of giant multinucleated cells and increase in nuclear area and DNA content. In SW620 cell line, 37.5% giant multinucleated cells induced by FLU treatment showed positivity for SA-β-galactosidase staining. Cell lines were able to recover from the treatment and this process was faster in SW480 cells.

Conclusion

Flubendazole in low concentration temporarily inhibits cell proliferation and induces mitotic catastrophe and premature senescence in human colon cancer cells in vitro.
Health technology assessment in low- and middle-income countries: a landscape assessment
Authors: Babigumira Joseph B , Jenny Alisa M , Bartlein Rebecca , Stergachis Andy , Garrison Louis P
Published: January 2016

Objectives

Health technology assessment (HTA) for a wide range of healthcare technologies is an essential component of well-functioning health systems. Knowledge of the use of HTA in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is limited.

Methods

We performed a survey of HTA in selected LMICs. We interviewed key stakeholders on the use, conduct and challenges of performing HTA in their countries. We performed mixed-methods analyses to identify, characterize and describe HTA and how it relates to gross domestic product and government effectiveness.

Key findings

Of the 19 countries selected for participation, stakeholders in 12 (63%) countries responded to the survey – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Jordan, Kenya, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland and Vietnam. Eight countries surveyed have some form of informal HTA activity conducted by stakeholders including academia, industry, government and the World Health Organization. There is evidence of knowledge sharing with five countries using HTAs from their neighbouring countries or from more developed countries. We found no evidence of formal HTA performed through dedicated, independent bodies in the LMICs surveyed. There was some evidence that HTA was moderately related to GDP per capita and strongly related to degree of centralization (government effectiveness). Respondents identified resources, both financial and human, as challenges to conducting HTA.

Conclusions

Formal HTA appears to be non-existent or limited in the LMICs surveyed but some evidence of informal HTA exists. Efforts to formalize HTA and to use existing HTA evidence will improve the quality of regulatory, coverage, formulary and reimbursement decisions, and individual and public health.
Soil stabilization linked to plant diversity and environmental context in coastal wetlands
Authors: Ford Hilary , Garbutt Angus , Ladd Cai , Malarkey Jonathan , Skov Martin W.
Published: January 2016

Background

Plants play a pivotal role in soil stabilization, with above‐ground vegetation and roots combining to physically protect soil against erosion. It is possible that diverse plant communities boost root biomass, with knock‐on positive effects for soil stability, but these relationships are yet to be disentangled.

Question

We hypothesize that soil erosion rates fall with increased plant species richness, and test explicitly how closely root biomass is associated with plant diversity.

Methods

We tested this hypothesis in salt marsh grasslands, dynamic ecosystems with a key role in flood protection. Using step‐wise regression, the influences of biotic (e.g. plant diversity) and abiotic variables on root biomass and soil stability were determined for salt marshes with two contrasting soil types: erosion‐resistant clay (Essex, southeast UK) and erosion‐prone sand (Morecambe Bay, northwest UK). A total of 132 (30‐cm depth) cores of natural marsh were extracted and exposed to lateral erosion by water in a re‐circulating flume.

Results

Soil erosion rates fell with increased plant species richness (R2 = 0.55), when richness was modelled as a single explanatory variable, but was more important in erosion‐prone (R2 = 0.44) than erosion‐resistant (R2 = 0.18) regions. As plant species richness increased from two to nine species·m−2, the coefficient of variation in soil erosion rate decreased significantly (R2 = 0.92). Plant species richness was a significant predictor of root biomass (R2 = 0.22). Step‐wise regression showed that five key variables accounted for 80% of variation in soil erosion rate across regions. Clay‐silt fraction and soil carbon stock were linked to lower rates, contributing 24% and 31%, respectively, to variation in erosion rate. In regional analysis, abiotic factors declined in importance, with root biomass explaining 25% of variation. Plant diversity explained 12% of variation in the erosion‐prone sandy region.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that soil stabilization and root biomass are positively associated with plant diversity. Diversity effects are more pronounced in biogeographical contexts where soils are erosion‐prone (sandy, low organic content), suggesting that the pervasive influence of biodiversity on environmental processes also applies to the ecosystem service of erosion protection.
A common lack of demographic equilibrium among tree species in Białowieża National Park (NE Poland): evidence from long‐term plots
Authors: Brzeziecki Bogdan , Pommerening Arne , Miścicki Stanisław , Drozdowski Stanisław , Żybura Henryk
Published: January 2016

Questions

Does the size structure characterizing particular tree species in natural forest stands converge towards a steady state? What is the main reason for departures of observed tree size distributions from equilibrium models? What is the consequence of long‐term strict protection for the demography of tree species and the conservation of associated biota?

Location

Stands of natural forest in Białowieża National Park (NE Poland) that have been under strict protection for about 90 yr.

Methods

Data on recruitment, growth and mortality of approximately 10 000 trees representing 11 species (aspen, birch, alder, pine, oak, maple, ash, elm, spruce, lime and hornbeam), from seven replicated surveys of five permanent monitoring plots (total size = 15.44 ha), established in 1936, were used to derive theoretical, species‐specific equilibrium distributions as a basis for evaluating the demographic changes of the species involved.

Results

Over a monitoring period of 76 yr, there were strong downward trends in the population densities of several tree species of different successional status and light requirements. A vast majority of the conspecific equilibrium curves, modelled on the basis of growth and mortality data, revealed a ‘rotated sigmoid’ shape when plotted in semi‐log plots. In contrast to these equilibrium curves, the observed tree size distributions of most species were unimodal, at both the beginning and the end of the study period. Departures between theoretical and observed distributions increased over time, particularly for shade‐intolerant and intermediate species.

Conclusions

The populations of several tree species occurring in the Białowieża National Park are demographically unstable – a fact reflected in large and steadily increasing differences between theoretical and actual tree size distributions. The main reason for this are the insufficient recruitment rates typical of most species. Some tree species may very soon disappear almost entirely, and this will certainly lead to far‐reaching changes in the functioning of local forest communities. Among other consequences, the current demographic trends, as observed for Białowieża tree species, are very likely to have a strong effect on the long‐term survival of numerous forest organisms (such as insects, fungi, lichens, etc.), which depend, directly or indirectly, on the presence and balanced demography of particular tree species.
HBV: Do I treat my immunotolerant patients?
Authors: Vlachogiannakos Jiannis , Papatheodoridis George V.
Published: January 2016

Immunotolerant patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are characterized by positive HBeAg, high viral replication, persistently normal ALT and no or minimal liver damage. Since the risk of the progression of liver disease and the chance of a sustained response with existing anti‐HBV agents are low, current guidelines do not recommend treatment but close monitoring with serial alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and HBV DNA measurements instead. However, not treating all these patients is a concern because advanced histological lesions have been reported in certain cases who are usually older (>30–40 years old), and continued high HBV replication could increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, the optimal management of immunotolerant patients is often individualised according to age, which is associated with histological severity and patient outcome. In particular, immunotolerant patients <30 years old can be monitored for ALT and HBV DNA, while treatment is often recommended in the few patients over 40. A liver biopsy and/or non‐invasive assessment of fibrosis may be helpful to determine the therapeutic strategy in patients between 30 and 40 years old. Moreover, there are three specific subgroups of immunotolerant patients who often require treatment with oral anti‐HBV agents: patients who will receive immunosuppressive treatment or chemotherapy, women with serum HBV DNA >106–7 IU/ml during the last trimester of pregnancy and certain healthcare professionals with high viraemia levels. More studies are needed to further clarify the natural history for the optimal timing of treatment in this setting.
Clinical relevance of the study of hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh , Pérez‐del‐Pulgar Sofía , Testoni Barbara , Lebossé Fanny , Zoulim Fabien
Published: January 2016

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a public health concern with 240 million people affected worldwide. HBV is an hepadnavirus that replicates its genome in hepatocytes. One of the key steps of the viral life cycle is the formation of cccDNA – covalently closed circular DNA – in the nucleus, the equivalent of a viral mini‐chromosome that acts as a template for subsequent virus replication. Current antiviral medications are not effective in eradicating cccDNA, which can persist in the infected liver even in the absence of detectable HBV DNA or HBsAg in the blood. cccDNA cannot be measured in serum, and few surrogate markers have been proposed. Persistent cccDNA has been associated with various clinical events, including viral reactivation induced by immunosuppressive therapies, HBV recurrence after liver transplantation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). cccDNA remains the main target to achieve a cure of HBV infection, thus extensive efforts are being made to develop new antiviral concepts to degrade or silence cccDNA.
The prognosis and management of inactive HBV carriers
Authors: Invernizzi Federica , Viganò Mauro , Grossi Glenda , Lampertico Pietro
Published: January 2016

Patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection lacking the serum hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and with antibodies against HBeAg (anti‐HBe), are the prevalent subgroup of HBV carriers worldwide. The prognosis of these patients is different from inactive carriers (ICs), who are characterized by persistently normal serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and low (<2000 IU/ml) serum HBV DNA levels, a serological profile that may also be intermittently observed in patients with HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis. This is why a confirmed diagnosis of IC requires quarterly ALT and HBV DNA measurements for at least 1 year, while a single‐point detection of combined HBsAg <1000 IU/ml and HBV DNA <2000 IU/ml has a robust predictive value for the diagnosis of IC. Characteristically, ICs have minimal or no histological lesions of the liver corresponding to liver stiffness values on Fibroscan of <5 kPa. Antiviral treatment is not indicated in ICs since the prognosis for the progression of liver disease is favourable if there are no cofactors of liver damage such as alcohol abuse, excess weight or co‐infection with the hepatitis C virus or delta virus. Moreover, spontaneous HBsAg loss frequently occurs (1–1.9% per year) in these patients while the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is rare, at least in Caucasian patients. However, an emerging issue reinforcing the need for clinical surveillance of ICs is the risk of HBV reactivation in patients who undergo immunosuppressive therapy without receiving appropriate antiviral prophylaxis. After diagnosis, management of ICs includes monitoring of ALT and HBV DNA every 12 months with periodic measurement of serum HBsAg levels to identify viral clearance.
HCV and the kidney
Authors: Corouge Marion , Vallet‐Pichard Anaïs , Pol Stanislas
Published: January 2016

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is significantly associated with a risk of renal deterioration over time. Renal impairment, especially stage 4–5 chronic kidney disease, increases the risk of: (i) the prevalence and incidence (in dialysis/transplantation) of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection; (ii) liver deterioration during kidney transplantation and (iii) allograft failure and patient mortality. HCV‐infected dialysis patients have a higher mortality than non‐infected dialysis patients and than HCV‐infected kidney recipients. The harmful impact of HCV emphasizes the need for oral antiviral therapies in patients with chronic kidney disease. Symptomatic cryoglobulinemic vasculitis and extensive liver fibrosis are already approved indications for early access to oral antiviral treatment. Patients with stage 4–5 chronic kidney disease should also be given priority: dialysis patients (whatever the stage of fibrosis and whether or not they are candidates for kidney transplantation) as well as all kidney recipients. The results of treatment of HCV with direct‐acting antiviral (DAAs) drugs in patients with late chronic kidney disease are excellent, similar to those in the general population, although additional clinical trials are definitely needed, particularly to optimize adjustment of treatment to kidney function and determine the risk of drug–drug interactions.
Direct‐acting antivirals for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection: optimizing current IFN‐free treatment and future perspectives
Authors: Asselah Tarik , Boyer Nathalie , Saadoun David , Martinot‐Peignoux Michele , Marcellin Patrick
Published: January 2016

There has been a revolution in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. Several oral regimens combining direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) from different families [NS5B nucleotide inhibitors, NS5B non‐nucleoside inhibitors, NS5A replication complex inhibitors and NS3/4A protease inhibitors (PI)] have been developed. These regimens result in an increase in sustained virological response (SVR) rates to above 90% and reduce the duration of treatment to 12 weeks or less. As of 2016 several regimens will be approved with additive potencies, without cross‐resistance and with a good safety profile. Remaining issues will include increasing screening and access to care so that HCV may become the first chronic viral infection eradicated worldwide. This review summarizes results obtained with oral DAA combinations that have been approved and/or have completed phase 3 clinical trials for HCV infection and discusses future perspectives.
Antenatal dietary patterns and depressive symptoms during pregnancy and early post‐partum
Authors: Baskin Rachel , Hill Briony , Jacka Felice N , O'Neil Adrienne , Skouteris Helen
Published: January 2016

Perinatal depression is a debilitating disorder experienced during pregnancy and/or the first year post‐partum. Recently, maternal dietary intake during pregnancy has emerged as a possible area of intervention for the prevention of mental disorders in women and their offspring. However, the relationship between antenatal diet quality and perinatal depressive symptoms remains poorly understood. The current study explored the predictive role of antenatal diet quality for antenatal and post‐natal depressive symptoms. Pregnant women (n = 167) were recruited between February 2010 and December 2011. Women completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale at time 1 [T1, mean weeks gestation = 16.70, standard deviation (SD) = 0.91], time 2 (T2, mean weeks gestation = 32.89, SD = 0.89) and time 3 (T3, mean weeks post‐partum = 13.51, SD = 1.97) and a food frequency questionnaire at T1 and T2. Diet quality was determined by extracting dietary patterns via principal components analysis. Two dietary patterns were identified: ‘healthy’ (including fruit, vegetables, fish and whole grains) and ‘unhealthy’ (including sweets, refined grains, high‐energy drinks and fast foods). Associations between dietary patterns and depressive symptoms were investigated by path analyses. While both ‘healthy’ and ‘unhealthy’ path models showed good fit, only one significant association consistent with study hypotheses was found, an ‘unhealthy’ diet was associated with increased depressive symptoms at 32 weeks gestation. Given that this association was cross‐sectional, it was not possible to make any firm conclusions about the predictive nature of either dietary patterns or depressive symptoms. Dietary intervention studies or larger prospective studies are therefore recommended.
Genetic mapping and inheritance of Russian wheat aphid resistance gene in accession IG 100695
Authors: Aykut Tonk Fatma , İştipliler Deniz , Tosun Muzaffer , Turanli Ferit , İlbi Hülya , Çakir Mehmet
Published: January 2016

The Russian wheat aphid (RWA), Diuraphis noxia (Kurdjumov), is an important pest of small‐grain cereals, particularly wheat, worldwide. The most efficient strategy against the RWA is to identify sources of resistance and to introduce them into susceptible wheat genotypes. This study was conducted to determine the mode of inheritance of the RWA resistance found in ICARDA accession IG 100695, to identify wheat microsatellite markers closely linked to the gene and to map the chromosomal location of the gene. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) marker scores were identified in a mapping population of 190 F2 individuals and compared, while phenotypic screening for resistance was performed in F2 : 3 families derived from a cross between ‘Basribey’ (susceptible) and IG 100695 (resistant). Phenotypic segregation of leaf chlorosis and rolling displayed the effect of a single dominant gene, temporarily denoted Dn100695, in IG 100695. Dn100695 was mapped on the short arm of chromosome 7D with four linked SSR markers, Xgwm44, Xcfd14, Xcfd46 and Xbarc126. Dn100695 and linked SSR markers may be useful for improving resistance for RWA in wheat breeding.
The use of plant stress biomarkers in assessing the effects of desiccation in zygotic embryos from recalcitrant seeds: challenges and considerations
Authors: Sershen  , Varghese B. , Naidoo C. , Pammenter N.W.
Published: January 2016

Zygotic embryos from recalcitrant seeds are sensitive to desiccation. In spite of their sensitivity, rapid partial dehydration is necessary for their successful cryopreservation. However, dehydration to water contents (WCs) that preclude lethal ice crystal formation during cooling and rewarming generally leads to desiccation damage. This study investigated the effects of rapid dehydration on selected stress biomarkers (electrolyte leakage, respiratory competence, rate of protein synthesis, superoxide production, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant activity and degree of cellular vacuolation) in zygotic embryos of four recalcitrant‐seeded species. Most biomarkers indicated differences in the levels of stress/damage incurred by embryos dried to WCs < and >0.4 g·g−1, within species; however, these changes were often unrelated to viability and percentage water loss when data for the four species were pooled for regression analyses. Dehydration‐induced electrolyte leakage was, however, positively related with percentage water loss, while biomarkers of cellular vacuolation were positively related with both percentage water loss and viability. This suggests that electrolyte leakage and degree of cellular vacuolation can be used to quantify dehydration‐induced stress/damage. Biomarkers such as superoxide production, whilst useful in establishing the nature of the dehydration stress incurred may not be able to distinguish the effects of different WCs/drying times. Irrespective of which biomarker is used, the data suggest that understanding differences in desiccation sensitivity across recalcitrant‐seeded species will remain a challenge unless these biomarkers are related to a generic desiccation stress index that integrates the effects of percentage water loss and drying time.
Public Service Motivation: A Systematic Literature Review and Outlook
Authors: Ritz Adrian , Brewer Gene A. , Neumann Oliver
Published: January 2016

Over the past two decades, research on public service motivation has seen rapid growth. Despite the relatively large number of publications to date, no systematic research overview has been created, leaving the body of literature somewhat unstructured and possibly hampering future research. This article fills this void by providing a systematic literature review of 323 publications that examines six key aspects of the literature on public service motivation: the growth of research on the concept, the most prominent studies based on a referencing network analysis, the most frequent publication outlets, research designs and methods, lines of inquiry and patterns of empirical findings, and implications for practice drawn from the publications in the study sample. Strengths and weaknesses of the existing literature are identified, and future research directions are proposed.
The Domestic Use of Drones: An Ethical Analysis of Surveillance Issues
Authors: West Jonathan P. , Bowman James S.
Published: January 2016

Drone surveillance can be regarded either as a justifiable, impartial practice serving the interests of all or as an oppressive technique catering to the interests of some at the expense of others. This analysis is an effort to weigh the ethical prospects and problems in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles by asking whether surveillance of civilians is ethical. To address this question, classical philosophical and modern behavioral approaches to ethics are used. The inquiry begins with the importance of the issue, followed by its evolution and current status. After describing the method of analysis, the article examines arguments for and against domestic monitoring. The unique utility of drones can accomplish much in the public interest while simultaneously creating moral hazards. The conclusion discusses accountability standards, model legislation provisions, and regulatory criteria for aerial vehicle surveillance.
Public Information and Regulatory Processes: What the Public Knows and Regulators Decide
Authors: Crow Deserai A. , Albright Elizabeth A. , Koebele Elizabeth
Published: January 2016

Because bureaucratic agencies may be less transparent in their decision processes than legislatures, most states have developed processes to incorporate input from regulated communities and other parties potentially affected by regulations. Administrative agencies may encourage democratic practices to increase legitimacy and accountability of the bureaucracy and improve decision‐making processes. However, rules governing the regulatory process vary by state, with some incorporating more open practices than others. Understanding these dynamics is increasingly important, as the rulemaking process has become central to policymaking over the past several decades, with a large portion of policymaking authority delegated to administrative agencies. Drawing from regulatory documents, rulemaking comments, media coverage, and interviews with regulators in 14 regulatory decision processes across five states, this study finds that while states vary in their approach to providing access to information, there are overriding patterns that reduce the role of citizens and the overall transparency of regulatory processes.
Why Do Regulatory Agencies Punish? The Impact of Political Principals, Agency Culture, and Transaction Costs in Predicting Environmental Criminal Prosecution Outcomes in the United States
Authors: Ozymy Joshua , Jarrell Melissa
Published: January 2016

Studies of administrative behavior are keen to examine the internal dynamics of agency decision making, as well the impact of external political actors on agency actions. Yet few studies apply these findings to the question of why agencies use their most punitive enforcement powers. Contrasting principal–agent, transaction costs, and organizational culture models of agency behavior, this study examines why regulatory agencies punish. Through content analysis of nearly one thousand of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's criminal investigations and subsequent prosecutions, 2001–11, findings suggest that punishment severity in environmental criminal cases is based less on transaction costs and political pressure and more on professional norms that value strong enforcement. These findings have important implications for explaining regulatory outcomes and administrative behavior.
Institutional Change Through Policy Learning: The Case of the European Commission and Research Policy
Authors: Tamtik Merli
Published: January 2016

Research initiatives to enhance knowledge‐based societies demand regionally coordinated policy approaches. By analyzing the case of the European Commission, Directorate‐General Research and Innovation, this study focuses on examining the cognitive mechanisms that form the foundation for institutional transformations and result in leadership positions in regional governance. Drawing on policy learning theories, the study emphasizes specific mechanisms of institutional change that are often less noticeable but can gradually lead to mobilizing diverse groups of stakeholders. Through historical and empirical data, this study shows the importance of policy learning through communication processes, Open Method of Coordination initiatives, and issue framing in creating a stronger foundation for policy coordination in European research policy since the 2000s.
Tests for High Dimensional Generalized Linear Models
Authors: Guo Bin , Chen Song Xi
Published: January 2016

We consider testing regression coefficients in high dimensional generalized linear models. By modifying the test statistic of Goeman and his colleagues for large but fixed dimensional settings, we propose a new test, based on an asymptotic analysis, that is applicable for diverging dimensions and is robust to accommodate a wide range of link functions. The power properties of the tests are evaluated asymptotically under two families of alternative hypotheses. In addition, a test in the presence of nuisance parameters is also proposed. The tests can provide p-values for testing significance of multiple gene sets, whose application is demonstrated in a case-study on lung cancer.
Time Error in Project Management: A Case Study in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Altahtooh Umar Ammar
Published: January 2016

Time error is a reality in the majority of projects. This paper presents empirical research which investigates the influence of time error during project life cycle. Data were collected using interviews with project managers and analyzed using content analysis. The findings explore the causes of time error in projects in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. This study gives an introductory insight into the influence of time error. It finds that time error affects the triple constraints of project management.
(Re)Defining the Situation When Football Fans Rush the Field
Authors: Renfrow Daniel G. , Wissick Terrence L. , Guard Christopher M.
Published: January 2016

Drawing on 251 incident reports, this study explores American football fans’ decisions to rush the field to celebrate a victory despite pleas from university officials and the police to abstain. We explore the symbolic interactions through which students defined this situation and acted within it. Our findings characterize this event as series of ongoing interactions wherein meaning and action are continually (re)negotiated. Campus rumors normalized the act of rushing by locating it and the student role within local tradition. Through interactions with other students in the stadium and by drawing on knowledge of prior sports tragedies, fans assessed the risks of participating and selected among lines of action ranging from “going to be with others” and “getting out of the way” to “going with the flow.” Ultimately, however, public address announcements, the loss of bodily control, and the inability to direct other people’s actions aligned competing definitions of the situation into one of emergency. We conclude by discussing the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Analyzing Media Representations of Sportswomen—Expanding the Conceptual Boundaries Using a Postfeminist Sensibility
Authors: Toffoletti Kim
Published: January 2016

This article seeks to expand the conceptual boundaries of sport media research by investigating the utility of a postfeminist sensibility for analyzing depictions of women in sport. Rosalind Gill’s (2007) notion of a postfeminist sensibility is situated within UK-led feminist critiques of gendered neoliberalism in popular culture and offers a conceptual lens through which sports scholars might interrogate the complex and contradictory media landscape that often simultaneously marginalizes and empowers sportswomen. In highlighting postfeminism as a sensibility, this article makes visible the ways in which depictions of sportswomen as sexy and strong reorients responsibility for the sexualization of female athletes away from media institutions and toward the female athlete themselves. It also explains how a postfeminist sensibility differs from third wave feminism—a related framework popular among sports feminists seeking to respond to ambivalent and complex renderings of contemporary sporting femininity.
#LOL at Multiculturalism: Reactions to Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi From the Twitterverse
Authors: Szto Courtney
Published: January 2016

Arguably, two aspects of national identity that Canadians are most recognized for are hockey and multiculturalism; yet, few scholars have examined the implications of Canada’s mythological and nostalgic hockey culture for immigrants from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. This analysis uses Twitter to gain uncensored insight into how Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi (HNIC Punjabi) is received by the general Canadian public. It is argued that when people of color become visible in traditionally white arenas (such as hockey) some Canadians are flummoxed by the sight of multiculturalism, while not necessarily being opposed to the idea of it. Laughter was also observed as a common reaction to HNIC Punjabi; consequently, despite the promise of a multicultural society, Punjabi Sikh Canadians are situated as paradoxical to hockey in Canada.
Intramuscular sinusoidal haemangioma with secondary Masson's phenomenon
Authors: Konda Paremala , Bavle Radhika M , Makarla Soumya , Muniswamappa Sudhakara
Published: January 2016

Intramuscular haemangiomas (IMHs) are rare benign vascular neoplasms that account for approximately 0.8% of all haemangiomas. The histology of IMHs can reveal cavernous dilated spaces. We report an interesting case of haemangioma in the deep skeletal muscle of the right labial mucosa in a young man involving the orbicularis oris muscle which showed additional features of sinusoidal arrangement with a secondary Masson's phenomenon.
Marfan syndrome, inherited aortopathies and exercise: What is the right answer?
Authors: Cheng Andrew , Owens David
Published: January 2016

Exercise recommendations for those who have Marfan syndrome or other genetic predisposition for thoracic aortic disease remain controversial and at times ambiguous. There are no outcomes studies to help guide recommendations. In this review, we examine the guidelines regarding exercise and inherited aortic conditions, the theoretical reasoning and circumstantial evidence that support the guidelines, as well as the knowledge gaps that continue to exist.
AMSSM scientific statement concerning viscosupplementation injections for knee osteoarthritis: importance for individual patient outcomes
Authors: Trojian Thomas H , Concoff Andrew L , Joy Susan M , Hatzenbuehler John R , Saulsberry Whitney J , Coleman Craig I
Published: January 2016

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disabling disease that produces severe morbidity reducing physical activity. Our position statement on treatment of knee OA with viscosupplementation injection (hyaluronic acid, HA) versus steroid (intra-articular corticosteroids, IAS) and placebo (intra-articular placebo, IAP) is based on the evaluation of treatment effect by examining the number of participants within a treatment arm who met the Outcome Measures in Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Trials-Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OMERACT-OARSI) criteria, which is different and more relevant than methods used in other reviews which examined if the average change across the treatment groups were clinically different. We performed a systematic literature search for all relevant articles from 1960 to August 2014 in the MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL. We performed a network meta-analysis (NMA) of the relevant literature to determine if there is a benefit from HA as compared with IAS and IAP. 11 papers met the inclusion criteria from the search strategy. On NMA, those participants receiving HA were 15% and 11% more likely to respond to treatment by OMERACT-OARSI criteria than those receiving IAS or IAP, respectively (p<0.05 for both). In the light of the aforementioned results of our NMA, the American Medical Society for Sport Medicine recommends the use of HA for the appropriate patients with knee OA.
Tolerability and effectiveness of sofosbuvir and simeprevir in the post-transplant setting: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nguyen Nghia H , Yee Brittany E , Chang Christine , Jin Minjuan , Lutchman Glen , Lim Joseph K , Nguyen Mindie H
Published: January 2016

Background

Outcome data on simeprevir and sofosbuvir (SMV+SOF) in patients with liver transplantation (LT) with hepatitis C virus genotype 1 (HCV-1) are limited with individual studies having a small sample size and limited SVR12 (sustained virological response) data. Our goal was to perform a meta-analysis to study the outcome of SMV+SOF±ribavirin (RBV) in recipients with LT.

Methods

In April 2015, we conducted a literature search for ‘simeprevir’ in MEDLINE/EMBASE and five major liver meetings. We included studies with SVR12 data in ≥5 post-LT mono-infected HCV-1 patients treated with SMV+SOF±RBV. We used random-effects models to estimate effect sizes, and the Cochrane Q-test (p value <0.10) with I2(>50%) to assess study heterogeneity.

Results

We included nine studies with a total of 325 patients with post-LT. Studies included mostly men (59–81%). Pooled SVR12 was 88.0% (95% CI 83.4% to 91.5%). In two studies, HCV-1a patients with mild fibrosis (n=108) had an SVR12 rate of 95.0% (95% CI 82.4% to 98.7%), which was significantly higher than that of HCV-1a patients with advanced fibrosis (n=49) with an SVR12 rate of 81.7% (95% CI 69.8% to 89.5%), OR 4.2 (95% CI 1.1 to 16.1, p=0.03). The most common pooled side effects were: fatigue 21% (n=48/237), headache 9% (n=23/254), dermatological symptoms 15% (n=38/254), and gastrointestinal symptoms 6% (12/193).

Conclusions

SMV+SOF±RBV is safe and effective in recipients with LT with HCV-1 infection.
Prevalence of hepatitis B seromarkers and hepatitis C antibodies in blood donors in Basra, Iraq
Authors: Al-Rubaye Ali , Tariq Ziad , Alrubaiy Laith
Published: January 2016

Background

Transfusion-caused hepatitis remains a major problem in Iraq. Therefore, testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) and antibodies to hepatitis C antigen (anti-HCV) is a very important preventative measure. The objective of this study was to establish the prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus seromarkers among blood donors as a foundation for safe blood transfusion in Iraq.

Methods

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the blood banks in Basra, Iraq from 1 January to 31 December 2013. Blood samples were collected and were tested for HBsAg, anti-HBc and anti-HCV using standard laboratory techniques.

Results

A total of 69 915 blood donors were enrolled for the study. A total of 1625 (2.3%) donors have shown serological evidence for hepatitis B virus infection; of those donors, 125 (0.2%) showed a positive test result for both anti-HBc and HBsAg while 1475 (2.1%) had positive anti-HBc results as the only positive test for HBV infection. There was no significant difference between males and females (p=0.28). The prevalence of anti-HCV was 0.1%.

Conclusions

This is the first large population study of its kind in Basra, Iraq. The prevalence of hepatitis B and C among blood donors is very low in Basra. Around 2% of blood donors had anti-HBc as the only serological evidence of HBV infection. Inclusion of anti-HBc in routine screening of blood donors in Iraq should be encouraged.
Benchmarking semiempirical, Hartree–Fock, DFT, and MP2 methods against the ionization energies and electron affinities of short- through long-chain [n]acenes and [n]phenacenes
Authors: Rayne Sierra , Forest Kaya
Published: January 2016

Vertical and adiabatic ionization energies (IEs) and electron affinities (EAs) were calculated for the n = 1–10 [n]acenes using a wide range of semiempirical, Hartree–Fock, density functional, and second-order Moller–Plesset perturbation theory model chemistries. None of the model chemistries examined was able to accurately predict the IEs or EAs for both short- through long-chain [n]acenes, as well as for extrapolations to the polymeric limit, when compared to available experimental and benchmark theoretical data. Except for 6-31G(d), the choice of the basis set does not affect B3LYP results significantly. Analogous calculations using a suite of eight modern and (or) popular density functionals for the n = 1–10 [n]phenacenes revealed similar problems in estimating the IEs and EAs of these compounds, with the sole exception of the M062X functional for adiabatic IEs and potentially the APFD, B3LYP, and MN12SX functionals for adiabatic EAs. The poor IE/EA prediction performance for the parent [n]acenes and [n]phenacenes may extend to their substituted derivatives and heteroatom-substituted analogs. Consequently, caution should be exercised in the application of non-high-level calculations for estimating the IE/EA of these important classes of materials.
Assessing the efficacy of co-inoculation of wheat seedlings with the associative bacteriaPaenibacillus polymyxa1465 andAzospirillum brasilenseSp245
Authors: Yegorenkova Irina V. , Tregubova Kristina V. , Burygin Gennady L. , Matora Larisa Y. , Ignatov Vladimir V.
Published: January 2016

Co-inoculation of associative bacteria, which have high nitrogen-fixing activity, tolerance for environmental conditions, and the ability to compete with the natural microflora, is used widely to enhance the growth and yields of agricultural plants. We evaluated the ability of 2 co-inoculated plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria, Paenibacillus polymyxa 1465 and Azospirillum brasilense Sp245, to colonize roots of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. ‘Saratovskaya 29’) seedlings, and we assessed the morphometric parameters of wheat early in its development. Analysis by ELISA with polyclonal antibodies raised against the exopolysaccharide of P. polymyxa 1465 and the lipopolysaccharide of A. brasilense Sp245 demonstrated that the root-colonizing activity of A. brasilense was higher when the bacterium was co-inoculated with P. polymyxa than when it was inoculated singly. Immunofluorescence microscopy with Alexa Fluor 532-labeled antibodies revealed sites of attachment of co-inoculated P. polymyxa and A. brasilense and showed that the 2 bacteria colonized similar regions of the roots. Co-inoculation exerted a negative effect on wheat seedling development, inhibiting root length by 17.6%, total root weight by 11%, and total shoot weight by 12%. Under certain conditions, dual inoculation of wheat may prove ineffective, apparently owing to the competition between the rhizobacteria for colonization sites on the plant roots. The findings from this study may aid in developing techniques for mixed bacterial inoculation of cultivated plants.