bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing cultural responsiveness: the development of a pilot transcultural secondary consultation program
Authors: McDonough Susan , Chopra Prem , Tuncer Can , Schumacher Bev , Bhat Ravi
Published: September 2013

Objective:

This paper describes the development of a pilot secondary consultation program by a state-wide transcultural psychiatry unit, Victorian Transcultural Mental Health (VTMH), in partnership with a rural mental health service, Goulburn Valley Area Mental Health Service (GVAMHS), and the responses of the clinicians who participated.

Method:

A series of eight consultations were facilitated by the VTMH in 2010 and attended by a total of 57 GVAMHS clinicians; five sessions were conducted face-to-face and three by videoconference. Facilitators recorded the details of discussions at each session. Participants and facilitators offered feedback that was analysed to improve the quality of cultural responsiveness at GVAMHS.

Results:

Participants from a range of disciplines provided consistently positive feedback. The sessions provided an effective forum for discussing cultural formulations and culturally sensitive approaches to working with individuals and their families.

Conclusions:

This pilot secondary consultation program provided clinicians in a rural area with a forum in which to reflect on cross-cultural mental health issues. This pilot has informed the development of subsequent VTMH cultural consultation services.
The Koorie Men’s Health Day: an innovative model for early detection of mental illness among rural Aboriginal men
Authors: Isaacs Anton , Lampitt Berwyn
Published: September 2013

Objective:

To describe the design, implementation and outcomes of an innovative model for the early detection of mental illness among rural Aboriginal men.

Method:

Through a collaborative effort between a University’ Department of Rural and Indigenous Health, an Aboriginal organisation and a regional mental health service, an all-male team was set up which consisted of a doctor, a mental health nurse and four key individuals from the local Aboriginal community. Invitations to attend a Koorie Men’s Health Day were distributed via flyers and posters. Using an assembly line technique and avoiding any reference to the term ‘mental’, all participants underwent a complete medical examination, a blood test for diabetes and a psychological assessment using the Kessler-10 schedule.

Results:

The event was attended by 20 men. Of the 17 participants whose data were available, seven scored significantly (25 or higher) on the psychological assessment and were offered follow-up.

Conclusions:

When conducted on a regular basis, the Koorie Men’s Health Day could be a useful method for the early detection of mental illness among rural Aboriginal men in Australia. Further research is needed to study the feasibility and sustainability of the model in different settings.
Use of anticonvulsants as prophylaxis for seizures in patients on clozapine
Authors: Caetano Dorgival
Published: September 2013

Objective:

The aim of this study is to conduct a critical review of the literature regarding the use of anticonvulsants in the prophylaxis of clozapine-induced seizures, to examine the relationship of the latter with clozapine daily dose, serum concentration and other factors than dosage that effect clozapine blood concentration, and to make recommendations for the management of clozapine-induced seizures.

Method:

A systematic review of English-language MEDLINE articles was undertaken.

Conclusions:

Clozapine-induced seizures may occur at any dose; the risk increases with dose and goes up to 4% at ≥ 600 mg/day. Some authors have advocated that patients on that dose regimen have anticonvulsant added as a primary prophylactic measure. The author discusses the pitfalls of this recommendation and highlights that seizures are better predicted from serum concentration (1300 ng/ml) rather than dose alone, and that serum concentration is strongly influenced by sex, age, smoking habit, drug–drug interactions and variations in the 1A2, 2D6 and 3A4 genotypes. Anticonvulsants are not recommended as a primary prophylaxis for clozapine-induced seizures. When deemed necessary as secondary prophylaxis, the clinician’s choice should consider drug–drug interactions that may increase/decrease clozapine serum concentration and lead to more side effects, including neutropenia/agranulocytosis and seizures, or compromise therapeutic response. Recommendations for primary and secondary prophylaxis of clozapine related-seizures are provided.
Defect sensitivity of piezoelectric strip transducers based on planar Lamb waves
Authors: Soorgee Mohammad Hossein , Lissenden Clifford J , Rose Joseph L , Yousefi-Koma Aghil
Published: September 2013

Long narrow piezoelectric fiber composite transducers that can generate planar ultrasonic guided waves are investigated for damage detection in plates. These strip transducers function well as actuators because the ultrasonic energy does not spread out and the signal remains strong. However, their suitability as sensors must be investigated because the received signal is integrated over the entire length of the transducer, potentially making them less sensitive to localized damage since the voltage is averaged over the length of the sensor. A segmented sensing scheme is introduced here and studied both numerically and experimentally. The strip transducer is subdivided into n segments, where n varies from 1 to 11, and the sensitivity to a through-thickness slot is assessed. The results indicate that there is a considerable improvement in defect sensitivity provided by segmented sensing. For a 130-mm-long strip transducer and a 15-mm-long slot, the transmission coefficient decreased from 0.86 to 0.70 to 0.59, while the reflection factor increased from 0.05 to 0.30 to 0.36 for the full 130-mm strip, a 31-mm-long segment, and a 7-mm-long segment, respectively.
Cyprus and the Global Polemics of Sex Trade and Sex Trafficking
Authors: Constantinou Angelo G.
Published: September 2013

This article problematizes the burgeoning transnational attempts to homogenize the ways in which national authorities deal with prostitution and human trafficking for sexual purposes. The case of Cyprus is used as a paradigm where local socioeconomic, geopolitical, and historical parameters indicate that they cannot be sidestepped for the purpose of implementing offshore legislations and policies on commercial sex and human trafficking and that often enough draw upon different interests and aim toward different ends. Rather, as is the case of Cyprus, the regulatory approach to prostitution (that exists since the colonial epoch) allows the state to assume an ambivalent stance toward the local sex industry and its negative corollary (sex trafficking) for the purpose of “facilitating” revenue enhancement. As such, neither the abolition nor the legalization of prostitution can effectively deal with the issue in hand. That said, any adamant argument in support of either approach is unquestionably, subject to criticism.
Mounting and Sustaining the Violence Against Women Research and Evaluation Program at the National Institute of Justice
Authors: Auchter Bernard , Moore Angela
Published: September 2013

The Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (VAWA) mandated a number of research efforts that stimulated a dramatic enhancement to violence against women research supported by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). This article documents and provides a perspective on key components in the history, development, and accomplishments of the Violence Against Women (VAW) research and evaluation program of NIJ. The article is comprised of four key parts: (a) progress of the research program and how leadership, planning, and collaboration were the catalysts in instituting the program; (b) significant research issues confronted and managed, including measurement, evaluation rigor, and gender symmetry; (c) critical conflicts in the field, such as calls for greater attention to sexual assault and violence against minorities as well as resistance to research on perpetrators and male victims; and (d) possible research directions for the future and a concluding comment.
NIJ’s Program of Domestic Violence Research
Authors: Auchter Bernard , Backes Bethany L.
Published: September 2013

The primary focus of the National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ’s) Violence Against Women (VAW) research and evaluation program has been domestic violence, also called intimate partner violence (IPV). The program has supported over 200 studies that have centered on definition and measurement, victims and perpetrators, children, contexts and consequences of domestic violence, and civil and criminal justice interventions and processes responding to these crimes. Funding approaches in the program have employed grants for research and evaluation, demonstration programs with partner agencies, joint funding of research through interagency agreements, and collaborations with agencies and organizations sharing common objectives. Results have influenced policy and practices, particularly results from those studies conducted by researcher–practitioner collaborations. NIJ’s success in the development and progress of this program is attributed to the initial vision that included researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in an ongoing discourse about what is known and needs to be known. The terms domestic violence and IPV are used interchangeably throughout the article.
NIJ’s Program of Research on Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women
Authors: Crossland Christine , Palmer Jane , Brooks Alison
Published: September 2013

The Violence Against Women Act of 2005 (Public Law Number 109-162), at Title IX, Section 904(a) (codified at 42 U.S.C. § 3796gg-10 note) mandates that the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), in consultation with the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), conduct a national baseline study on violence against American Indian and Alaska Native (AI and AN) women living in tribal communities. As a result, NIJ has developed a comprehensive research program consisting of multiple projects that will be accomplished over an extended period of time to address this much needed research. The purpose of the research program is to: examine violence against AI and AN women (including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and murder) and identify factors that place AI and AN women at risk for victimization; evaluate the effectiveness of federal, state, tribal, and local responses to violence against AI and AN women; and propose recommendations to improve effectiveness of these responses.
Practitioner Perspectives on the National Institute of Justice’s Violence Against Women Research and Evaluation Program
Authors: Auchter Bernard
Published: September 2013

Five practitioners who have worked with NIJ over recent years were asked to providea critique of NIJ’s VAW program based on their experience. Individuals from professions that the program seeks to assist or inform offered the following commentaries.
A new higher-order shear and normal deformation theory for the static and free vibration analysis of sandwich plates with functionally graded isotropic face sheets
Authors: Bessaim Aicha , Houari Mohammed SA , Tounsi Abdelouahed , Mahmoud SR , Bedia El Abbes Adda
Published: September 2013

In this paper, a new higher-order shear and normal deformation theory for the bending and free vibration analysis of sandwich plates with functionally graded isotropic face sheets is developed. The number of unknown functions involved in the present theory is only five, as against six or more in case of other shear and normal deformation theories. The theory accounts for hyperbolic distribution of the transverse shear strains and satisfies the zero traction boundary conditions on the surfaces of the plate without using shear correction factor. The boundary conditions for the plate are assumed to be simply supported in all edges and in the static analysis, the plate is assumed to be subjected to a sinusoidally distributed load. Both symmetric and non-symmetric sandwich plates are considered. The equations of motion are obtained using Hamilton’s principle. Numerical results of present theory are compared with three-dimensional elasticity solutions and other higher-order theories reported in the literature. It can be concluded that the proposed theory is accurate and efficient in predicting the bending and free vibration responses of sandwich plates with functionally graded isotropic face sheets.
Background and dimensions of consumption experience in Brazilian hotels
Authors: Ladeira Wagner Junior , Costa Gustavo , Santini Fernando de Oliveira
Published: September 2013

Satisfaction studies have become fundamental for improving the relationship between guests and hotels. Thus, functional relationships interfering in guest satisfaction in the hotel sector were analyzed, based on three components: background consumption, consumption experience, and price practiced. Upon the theoretical model proposed, seven hypotheses were formulated. Then, a quantitative causal field research was developed, based on the experimental method, wherein price was manipulated (high and low). A total of 260 questionnaires have been collected, divided into two environments and three different hotels. In the first scenario, the guests paid a high price for their stay in the three hotels, due to the 50th Festa Nacional do Calçado (FENAC), a major national shoe fair. In the second scenario, data were collected in a period of low demand in the three hotels, with lower prices being practiced. After the implementation of the experiment, data were processed through the Structural Equation Modeling technique, and mediating and moderating effects were used for understanding the functional relationships studied. Based on the results obtained, the dimensions associated to consumption experience can be said to influence the relationship between consumption background and satisfaction. In addition, a moderating effect of the prices on the model’s relationship was observed, with differences being identified in the experiments among the relationships moderating physical and social experiences and satisfaction levels expressed by the guests.
Resettlement of individuals with learning disabilities into community care
Authors: Ellis Roger , Hogard Elaine , Sines David
Published: September 2013

This article describes a risk audit carried out on the support provided for 36 people with profound learning disabilities who had been resettled from hospital care to supported housing. The risks were those factors identified in the literature as associated with deleterious effects on quality of life. The audit was carried out with a specially designed tool that covered 24 possible risks and involved a support worker familiar with the service user choosing the most appropriate statement regarding each risk. Their judgements were verified by care managers and social needs assessors. Whilst one or more risks were identified for 32 of the 36 service users, the overall result showed relatively low risks for the group as a whole with 62 incidences (7%) from a possible 864, which nevertheless highlighted several areas that needed attention. The results of the audit have led to action plans for the provision and for the individual service users for whom risks were identified.
Effects of aragonite calcium carbonate on barrier and mechanical properties of a three-layer co-extruded blown low-density polyethylene film
Authors: Ge Changfeng , Aldi Robert
Published: September 2013

The study is aimed to find whether the location of the calcium carbonate added in a three-layer co-extruded blown film has an impact on film’s barrier and mechanical properties. Aragonite calcium carbonate-added low-density polyethylene films were produced at various weight ratios and layer structure through a three-layer co-extrusion blown film line. The scanning electron microscopy micrographs were obtained to understand the dispersion on the calcium carbonate and the morphology related to the film barrier and mechanical properties. The study found that adding calcium carbonate into the center layer of the three-layer co-extruded blown film significantly enhanced the barrier properties. The oxygen and water vapor barrier of the blown film improved 50% and 40%, respectively, in the presence of 18.38 wt% calcium carbonate. Adding calcium carbonate into the center layer does not change the tensile strength of the blown film to a great extent when the filler concentration is between 9.12 wt% to 18.38 wt%. However, the addition of the calcium carbonate reduced the film’s impact strength by 50 to 70% in the presence of 9.17 wt% to 31.54 wt% calcium carbonate for both center layer reinforced and blended blown film.
Changes in calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor component and nitric oxide receptor (sGC) immunoreactivity in rat trigeminal ganglion following glyceroltrinitrate pretreatment
Authors: Seiler Kristin , Nusser Judith I , Lennerz Jochen K , Neuhuber Winfried L , Messlinger Karl
Published: September 2013

Background

Nitric oxide (NO) is thought to play an important role in the pathophysiology of migraine. Infusion of the nitrovasodilator glyceroltrinitrate (nitroglycerin, GTN), which mobilizes NO in the organism, is an approved migraine model in humans. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is regarded as another key mediator in migraine. Increased plasma levels of CGRP have been found during spontaneous as well as nitrovasodilator-induced migraine attacks. The nociceptive processes and interactions underlying the NO and CGRP mediated headache are poorly known but can be examined in animal experiments. In the present study we examined changes in immunofluorescence of CGRP receptor components (CLR and RAMP1) and soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC), the intracellular receptor for NO, in rat trigeminal ganglia after pretreatment with GTN.

Methods

Isoflurane anaesthetised rats were intravenously infused with GTN (1 mg/kg) or saline for four hours and two hours later the trigeminal ganglia were processed for immunohistochemistry. Different primary antibodies recognizing CLR, RAMP1, CGRP and sGC coupled to fluorescent secondary antibodies were used to examine immunoreactive cells in serial sections of trigeminal ganglia with epifluorescence and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Several staining protocols were examined to yield optimized immunolabeling.

Results

In vehicle-treated animals, 42% of the trigeminal ganglion neurons were immunopositive for RAMP1 and 41% for CLR. After GTN pretreatment CLR-immunopositivity was unchanged, while there was an increase in RAMP1-immunopositive neurons to 46%. RAMP1 and CLR immunoreactivity was also detected in satellite cells. Neurons immunoreactive for sGC were on average smaller than sGC-immunonegative neurons. The percentage of sGC-immunopositive neurons (51% after vehicle) was decreased after GTN infusion (48%).

Conclusions

Prolonged infusion of GTN caused increased fractions of RAMP1- and decreased fractions of sGC-immunopositive neurons in the trigeminal ganglion. The observed alterations are likely immunophenotypic correlates of the pathophysiological processes underlying nitrovasodilator-induced migraine attacks and indicate that signalling via CGRP receptors but not sGC-mediated mechanisms may be enhanced through endogenous NO production.
Comparative analysis of the complete genome of an epidemic hospital sequence type 203 clone of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium
Authors: Lam Margaret MC , Seemann Torsten , Tobias Nicholas J , Chen Honglei , Haring Volker , Moore Robert J , Ballard Susan , Grayson Lindsay M , Johnson Paul DR , Howden Benjamin P , Stinear Timothy P
Published: September 2013

Background

In this report we have explored the genomic and microbiological basis for a sustained increase in bloodstream infections at a major Australian hospital caused by Enterococcus faecium multi-locus sequence type (ST) 203, an outbreak strain that has largely replaced a predecessor ST17 sequence type.

Results

To establish a ST203 reference sequence we fully assembled and annotated the genome of Aus0085, a 2009 vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREfm) bloodstream isolate, and the first example of a completed ST203 genome. Aus0085 has a 3.2 Mb genome, comprising a 2.9 Mb circular chromosome and six circular plasmids (2 kb–130 kb). Twelve percent of the 3222 coding sequences (CDS) in Aus0085 are not present in ST17 E. faecium Aus0004 and ST18 E. faecium TX16. Extending this comparison to an additional 12 ST17 and 14 ST203 E. faecium hospital isolate genomes revealed only six genomic regions spanning 41 kb that were present in all ST203 and absent from all ST17 genomes. The 40 CDS have predicted functions that include ion transport, riboflavin metabolism and two phosphotransferase systems. Comparison of the vancomycin resistance-conferring Tn1549 transposon between Aus0004 and Aus0085 revealed differences in transposon length and insertion site, and van locus sequence variation that correlated with a higher vancomycin MIC in Aus0085. Additional phenotype comparisons between ST17 and ST203 isolates showed that while there were no differences in biofilm-formation and killing of Galleria mellonella, ST203 isolates grew significantly faster and out-competed ST17 isolates in growth assays.

Conclusions

Here we have fully assembled and annotated the first ST203 genome, and then characterized the genomic differences between ST17 and ST203 E. faecium. We also show that ST203 E. faecium are faster growing and can out-compete ST17 E. faecium. While a causal genetic basis for these phenotype differences is not provided here, this study revealed conserved genetic differences between the two clones, differences that can now be tested to explain the molecular basis for the success and emergence of ST203 E. faecium.
Strategies for maximizing consent rates for child dental health surveys: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Glenny Anne-Marie , Worthington Helen V , Milsom Keith M , Rooney Eric , Tickle Martin
Published: September 2013

Background

Poor response rates can jeopardise the validity of the findings of epidemiological surveys. The aim of this study was to undertake a randomised controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of different strategies for maximizing parental consent rates for dental health surveys of young children.

Methods

The trial took place within the 2007/2008 NHS Epidemiological Dental Health Survey of 5-year-old children in the North West of England. Schools were randomised to one of five interventions: multiple letters to parents; promoting the research by providing additional information to parents and children; a financial incentive to the school; a financial incentive to the school administrator plus direct mailing to parents; and a control intervention comprising of usual practice, that is a single letter home to parents via the children.

Results

A total of 335 schools (11,088 children) were recruited. The mean percentage consent rates ranged from 47% (financial incentive to school administrator plus direct mailing) to 63% (multiple letters). Pair-wise comparisons indicated that the multiple letter group had a statistically significantly greater consent rate than the financial incentive to the school administrator plus direct mailing group and promoting the research by providing additional information group, but was not statistically significantly different from the financial incentive to the school group and the control group.

Conclusions

There was little evidence to show that any of the five interventions made a significant difference to consent rates when compared to the control group. Financial incentives to schools were less effective than multiple reminder letters to parents. Trials should be built into surveys to test different interventions, in different contexts to expand the evidence base for improving consent rates in health surveillance programmes.
Gene polymorphism and protein of human pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in Chinese healthy subjects and chronic periodontitis patients
Authors: Loo Wings TY , Fan Chang-bin , Bai Lan-jun , Yue Yuan , Dou Yi-ding , Wang Min , Liang Hao , Cheung Mary NB , Chow Louis WC , Li Jin-le , Tian Ye , Qing Liu
Published: September 2013

Background

Periodontal disease is thought to arise from the interaction of various factors, including the susceptibility of the host, the presence of pathogenic organisms, and the absence of beneficial species. The genetic factors may play a significant role in the risk of periodontal diseases. Cytokines initiate, mediate and control immune and inflammatory responses. The aim of this study is to compare genotypes and soluble protein of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-10, TNF-α and IL-4) in subjects with or free of chronic periodontitis.

Methods

A total of 1,290 Chinese subjects were recruited to this clinical trial: 850 periodontally healthy controls and 440 periodontal patients. All subjects were free of systemic diseases. Oral examinations were performed, and the following parameters were recorded for each subject: supragingival/subgingival calculus, gingival recession, bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), gingival recession and tooth mobility. The peripheral blood samples were collected for genetic and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis. Restriction enzymes were used for digestion of amplified fragments of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-10, TNF-α and IL-4.

Results

The protein expressions of patient and control samples for IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-10, and IL-4 measured by ELISA confirmed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). The digestion of fragments of various genes showed that the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1α and TNF-α, and the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 demonstrated a correlation with chronic inflammation in patients (X

2
: p < 0.001). The remaining genes investigated in patients and healthy subjects (IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ and IL-10) did not show any significant difference.

Conclusions

The cytokine gene polymorphisms may be used as a marker for periodontitis susceptibility, clinical behaviour and severity. This detection offers early diagnosis and induction of prophylaxis to other family members against disease progression.
Is fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography useful for the thyroid nodules with indeterminate fine needle aspiration biopsy? a meta-analysis of the literature
Authors: Wang Ningjian , Zhai Hualing , Lu Yingli
Published: September 2013

Background

The indeterminate fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) results present a clinical dilemma for physicians. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18 F-FDG PET) in the detection of these indeterminate lesions.

Methods

Seven studies (involving a total of 267 patients) published before November 2012 were reviewed. Systematic methods were used to identify, select, and evaluate the methodological quality of the studies as well as to summarize the overall findings of sensitivity and specificity.

Results

A total number of 70 patients were confirmed to have malignant lesions, with a cancer prevalence of 26.2% (70/267; ranging from 19.6% to 40.0% in these studies). The pooled sensitivity and specificity of PET or PET/CT for the detection of cancer was 89.0% (95% CI: 79.0% ∼ 95.0%) and 55.0% (95% CI: 48.0% ∼ 62.0%), respectively. There was no evidence of threshold effects or publication bias. The area [±standard error (±SE)] under the symmetrical sROC curve was 0.7207 ± 0.1041. Although SUVmax was higher in malignant lesions ( P < 0.01), there was still a great overlap. The best cut-off value of SUVmax for differentiation was 2.05; but with a high sensitivity of 89.8% and low specificity of 42.0%.

Conclusion

F-FDG PET or PET/CT showed a high sensitivity in detecting thyroid cancers in patients with indeterminate FNAB results. Further examination was strongly recommended when an FDG-avid lesion was detected.
Murine Fig4 is dispensable for muscle development but required for muscle function
Authors: Reifler Aaron , Lenk Guy M , Li Xingli , Groom Linda , Brooks Susan V , Wilson Desmond , Bowerson Michyla , Dirksen Robert T , Meisler Miriam H , Dowling James J
Published: September 2013

Background

Phosphatidylinositol phosphates (PIPs) are low-abundance phospholipids that participate in a range of cellular processes, including cell migration and membrane traffic. PIP levels and subcellular distribution are regulated by a series of lipid kinases and phosphatases. In skeletal muscle, PIPs and their enzymatic regulators serve critically important functions exemplified by mutations of the PIP phosphatase MTM1 in myotubular myopathy (MTM), a severe muscle disease characterized by impaired muscle structure and abnormal excitation–contraction coupling. FIG4 functions as a PIP phosphatase that participates in both the synthesis and breakdown of phosphatidylinositol 3,5-bisphosphate (PI(3,5)P2). Mutation of FIG4 results in a severe neurodegenerative disorder in mice and a progressive peripheral polyneuropathy in humans. The effect of FIG4 mutation on skeletal muscle has yet to be examined.

Methods

Herein we characterize the impact of FIG4 on skeletal muscle development and function using the spontaneously occurring mouse mutant pale tremor (plt), a mouse line with a loss of function mutation in Fig4.

Results

In plt mice, we characterized abnormalities in skeletal muscle, including reduced muscle size and specific force generation. We also uncovered ultrastructural abnormalities and increased programmed cell death. Conversely, we detected no structural or functional abnormalities to suggest impairment of excitation–contraction coupling, a process previously shown to be influenced by PI(3,5)P2 levels. Conditional rescue of Fig4 mutation in neurons prevented overt muscle weakness and the development of obvious muscle abnormalities, suggesting that the changes observed in the plt mice were primarily related to denervation of skeletal muscle. On the basis of the ability of reduced FIG4 levels to rescue aspects of Mtmr2-dependent neuropathy, we evaluated the effect of Fig4 haploinsufficiency on the myopathy of Mtm1-knockout mice. Male mice with a compound Fig4
+/−/Mtm1
–/Y genotype displayed no improvements in muscle histology, muscle size or overall survival, indicating that FIG4 reduction does not ameliorate the Mtm1-knockout phenotype.

Conclusions

Overall, these data indicate that loss of Fig4 impairs skeletal muscle function but does not significantly affect its structural development.
The age of peak performance in Ironman triathlon: a cross-sectional and longitudinal data analysis
Authors: Stiefel Michael , Knechtle Beat , Rüst Christoph Alexander , Rosemann Thomas , Lepers Romuald
Published: September 2013

Background

The aims of the present study were, firstly, to investigate in a cross-sectional analysis the age of peak Ironman performance within one calendar year in all qualifiers for Ironman Hawaii and Ironman Hawaii; secondly, to determine in a longitudinal analysis on a qualifier for Ironman Hawaii whether the age of peak Ironman performance and Ironman performance itself change across years; and thirdly, to determine the gender difference in performance.

Methods

In a cross-sectional analysis, the age of the top ten finishers for all qualifier races for Ironman Hawaii and Ironman Hawaii was determined in 2010. For a longitudinal analysis, the age and the performance of the annual top ten female and male finishers in a qualifier for Ironman Hawaii was determined in Ironman Switzerland between 1995 and 2010.

Results

In 19 of the 20 analyzed triathlons held in 2010, there was no difference in the age of peak Ironman performance between women and men (p > 0.05). The only difference in the age of peak Ironman performance between genders was in ‘Ironman Canada’ where men were older than women (p = 0.023). For all 20 races, the age of peak Ironman performance was 32.2 ± 1.5 years for men and 33.0 ± 1.6 years for women (p > 0.05). In Ironman Switzerland, there was no difference in the age of peak Ironman performance between genders for top ten women and men from 1995 to 2010 (F = 0.06, p = 0.8). The mean age of top ten women and men was 31.4 ± 1.7 and 31.5 ± 1.7 years (Cohen's d = 0.06), respectively. The gender difference in performance in the three disciplines and for overall race time decreased significantly across years. Men and women improved overall race times by approximately 1.2 and 4.2 min/year, respectively.

Conclusions

Women and men peak at a similar age of 32–33 years in an Ironman triathlon with no gender difference. In a qualifier for Ironman Hawaii, the age of peak Ironman performance remained unchanged across years. In contrast, gender differences in performance in Ironman Switzerland decreased during the studied period, suggesting that elite female Ironman triathletes might still narrow the gender gap in the future.
Is serum HMGB1 a biomarker in ANCA-associated vasculitis?
Authors: de Souza Alexandre Wagner Silva , Westra Johanna , Bijzet Johan , Limburg Pieter C , Stegeman Coen A , Bijl Marc , Kallenberg Cees GM
Published: September 2013

Background

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitides (AAV) are systemic inflammatory disorders that include granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), Churg-Strauss syndrome and renal limited vasculitis (RLV). Extracellular high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) acts as an alarmin and has been shown to be a biomarker of disease activity as well as an autoantigen in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and, possibly, in AAV. This study aims to assess antibodies against HMGB1 and HMGB1 levels as biomarkers for AAV disease activity and predictors of relapsing disease.

Methods

AAV patients with active disease and healthy controls (HC) were evaluated for anti-HMGB1 antibodies while serum HMGB1 levels were measured longitudinally in AAV patients at presentation, during remission, prior to and at relapses.

Results

HMGB1 levels were similar between AAV patients at presentation (n = 52) and HC (n = 35) (2.64 ± 1.80 ng/ml vs. 2.39 ± 1.09 ng/ml; P = 0.422) and no difference regarding HMGB1 levels could be found among AAV disease subsets (GPA: 2.66 ± 1.83 ng/ml vs. MPA: 3.11 ± 1.91 ng/ml vs. RLV: 1.92 ± 1.48 ng/ml; P = 0.369). AAV patients with renal involvement had lower HMGB1 levels than patients without renal involvement at presentation (2.35 ± 1.48 ng/ml vs. 3.52 ± 2.41 ng/ml; P = 0.042). A negative correlation was observed between HMGB1 levels and 24-hour proteinuria (ρ = -0.361, P = 0.028). Forty-nine AAV patients were evaluated for HMGB1 levels during follow-up and no differences were observed between relapsing and nonrelapsing patients (P = 0.350). No significant increase in HMGB1 levels was observed prior to a relapse compared with the remission period and changes in HMGB1 levels were not associated with an increased risk for relapse in AAV. Positivity for anti-HMGB1 antibodies was low in patients with active AAV (three out of 24 patients).

Conclusions

Serum HMGB1 levels at presentation are not increased and are lower in patients with renal involvement. Relapses are not preceded or accompanied by significant rises in HMGB1 levels and changes in HMGB1 levels are not related to ensuing relapses. Anti-HMGB1 antibodies are present in only a few patients in AAV. In contrast to SLE, HMGB1 is not a useful biomarker in AAV.
An investigation of sound levels on intensive care units with reference to the WHO guidelines
Authors: Darbyshire Julie L , Young J Duncan
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Patients in intensive care units (ICUs) suffer from sleep deprivation arising from nursing interventions and ambient noise. This may exacerbate confusion and ICU-related delirium. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that average hospital sound levels should not exceed 35 dB with a maximum of 40 dB overnight. We monitored five ICUs to check compliance with these guidelines.

Methods

Sound levels were recorded in five adult ICUs in the UK. Two sound level monitors recorded concurrently for 24 hours at the ICU central stations and adjacent to patients. Sample values to determine levels generated by equipment and external noise were also recorded in an empty ICU side room.

Results

Average sound levels always exceeded 45 dBA and for 50% of the time exceeded between 52 and 59 dBA in individual ICUs. There was diurnal variation with values decreasing after evening handovers to an overnight average minimum of 51 dBA at 4 AM. Peaks above 85 dBA occurred at all sites, up to 16 times per hour overnight and more frequently during the day. WHO guidelines on sound levels could be only achieved in a side room by switching all equipment off.

Conclusion

All ICUs had sound levels greater than WHO recommendations, but the WHO recommended levels are so low they are not achievable in an ICU. Levels adjacent to patients are higher than those recorded at central stations. Unit-wide noise reduction programmes or mechanical means of isolating patients from ambient noise, such as earplugs, should be considered.
Mesenchymal stem cells protect podocytes from apoptosis induced by high glucose via secretion of epithelial growth factor
Authors: Li Diangeng , Wang Nan , Zhang Li , Hanyu Zhu , Xueyuan Bai , Fu Bo , Shaoyuan Cui , Zhang Weiguang , Xuefeng Sun , Li Rongshan , Chen Xiangmei
Published: September 2013

Introduction

The apoptosis and subsequent injury of podocytes plays a pathogenic role in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising therapeutic cells for preventing apoptosis and reducing cellular injury. Our previous study found that MSCs could protect kidneys from diabetes-induced injury without obvious engraftment. So we evaluated the effects of human adipose-derived MSCs (hAd-MSCs) on podocytic apoptosis and injury induced by high glucose (HG) and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

We used flow cytometry, Western blot and confocal fluorescence microscopy to study podocytic apoptosis and injury induced by HG at 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours in the presence or absence of MSC-conditioned medium (CM). An antibody-based cytokine array was used to identify the mediating factor, which was verified by adding the neutralizing antibody (NtAb) to block its function or adding the recombinant cytokine to the medium to induce its function.

Results

hAd-MSC-CM reduced podocytic apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner, decreased the expression of podocytic cleaved caspase-3, and prevented the reduced expression and maintained the normal arrangement of podocytic synaptopodin and nephrin. However, human embryonic lung cell (Wi38)-CM failed to ameliorate podocytic apoptosis or injury. Twelve cytokines with concentration ratios (MSC-CM/Wi38-CM) >10-fold were identified. Epithelial growth factor (EGF) was singled out for its known ability to prevent apoptosis. Recombinant human EGF (rhEGF) prevented podocytic apoptosis and injury similarly to hAd-MSC-CM but, upon blockade of EGF, the beneficial effect of hAd-MSC-CM decreased dramatically.

Conclusions

hAd-MSCs prevent podocytic apoptosis and injury induced by HG, mainly through secreting soluble EG.
Underrepresentation by Race–Ethnicity across Stages of U.S. Science and Engineering Education
Authors: Garrison Howard
Published: September 2013

Blacks, Hispanics, and American Indians/Alaskan Natives are underrepresented in science and engineering fields. A comparison of race–ethnic differences at key transition points was undertaken to better inform education policy. National data on high school graduation, college enrollment, choice of major, college graduation, graduate school enrollment, and doctoral degrees were used to quantify the degree of underrepresentation at each level of education and the rate of transition to the next stage. Disparities are found at every level, and their impact is cumulative. For the most part, differences in graduation rates, rather than differential matriculation rates, make the largest contribution to the underrepresentation. The size, scope, and persistence of the disparities suggest that small-scale, narrowly targeted remediation will be insufficient.
An improved and stable downward continuation of potential field data: The truncated Taylor series iterative downward continuation method
Authors: Zhang HengLei , Ravat Dhananjay , Hu XiangYun
Published: September 2013

We present a stable downward continuation strategy based on combining the ideas of the Taylor series expansion and the iterative downward continuation methods in a single method with better downward continuation and/or computer time/memory performance for potential field data containing noise. In the new truncated Taylor series iterative downward continuation (TTSIDC) method, a correction is made on the continuing plane by downward continuing the difference between the observed and the calculated field. The process is iteratively repeated until the difference meets the convergence conditions. It is tested on synthetic and field data and compared to other downward continuation methods. The proposed method yields sharper images and estimates more accurate amplitudes than most of the existing methods, especially for downward continuation over larger distances. The TTSIDC method also gives comparable results to the method of downward continuation using the least-squares inversion (DCLSI); however, the DCLSI method’s requirements of computer memory and time are substantially greater than our TTSIDC method, rendering the DCLSI method impractical for data sets of routine size on desktop computers commonly available today.
Response-Guided Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: von Minckwitz Gunter , Blohmer Jens Uwe , Costa Serban Dan , Denkert Carsten , Eidtmann Holger , Eiermann Wolfgang , Gerber Bernd , Hanusch Claus , Hilfrich Jörn , Huober Jens , Jackisch Christian , Kaufmann Manfred , Kümmel Sherko , Paepke Stefan , Schneeweiss Andreas , Untch Michael , Zahm Dirk Michael , Mehta Keyur , Loibl Sibylle
Published: September 2013

Purpose

We investigated disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) after response-guided neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with early breast cancer.

Patients and Methods

We treated 2,072 patients with two cycles of docetaxel, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide (TAC) and randomly assigned early responders to four (n = 704) or six (n = 686) additional TAC cycles, and early nonresponders to four cycles of TAC (n = 321) or vinorelbine and capecitabine (NX; n = 301) before surgery.

Results

DFS was longer in early responders receiving TAC × 8 than in those receiving TAC × 6 (hazard ratio [HR], 0.78; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.97; P = .026), and in early nonresponders receiving TAC-NX than in those receiving TAC × 6 (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.49 to 0.82; P = .001). Exploratory analysis showed that DFS after response-guided chemotherapy (TAC × 8 or TAC-NX) was significantly longer (HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.60 to 0.85; P < .003), as was OS (HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.63 to 0.99; P = .048), than on conventional chemotherapy (TAC × 6). DFS was longer after response-guided chemotherapy in all hormone receptor–positive tumors (luminal A HR = 0.55, luminal B [human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative] HR = 0.40, and luminal B [HER2 positive] HR = 0.56), but not in hormone receptor–negative tumors (HER2 positive [nonluminal] HR = 1.01 and triple negative HR = 0.87). Pathologic complete response did not predict these survival effects. pCR predicted an improved DFS in triple-negative (HR = 6.67), HER2-positive (nonluminal; HR 5.24), or luminal B (HER2-negative) tumors (HR = 3.74).

Conclusion

This exploratory analysis suggests that response-guided neoadjuvant chemotherapy might improve survival and is most effective in hormone receptor–positive tumors. If confirmed, the response-guided approach could provide a clinically meaningful advantage for the neoadjuvant over the adjuvant approach in early breast cancer.
Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase III Chemoprevention Trial of Selenium Supplementation in Patients With Resected Stage I Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: ECOG 5597
Authors: Karp Daniel D. , Lee Sandra J. , Keller Steven M. , Wright Gail Shaw , Aisner Seena , Belinsky Steven Alan , Johnson David H. , Johnston Michael R. , Goodman Gary , Clamon Gerald , Okawara Gordon , Marks Randolph , Frechette Eric , McCaskill-Stevens Worta , Lippman Scott M. , Ruckdeschel John , Khuri Fadlo R.
Published: September 2013

Purpose

Selenium has been reported to have chemopreventive benefits in lung cancer. We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the incidence of second primary tumors (SPTs) in patients with resected non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving selenium supplementation.

Patients and Methods

Patients with completely resected stage I NSCLC were randomly assigned to take selenized yeast 200 μg versus placebo daily for 48 months. Participation was 6 to 36 months postoperatively and required a negative mediastinal node biopsy, no excessive vitamin intake, normal liver function, negative chest x-ray, and no other evidence of recurrence.

Results

The first interim analysis in October 2009, with 46% of the projected end points accumulated, showed a trend in favor of the placebo group with a low likelihood that the trial would become positive; thus, the study was stopped. One thousand seven hundred seventy-two participants were enrolled, with 1,561 patients randomly assigned. Analysis was updated in June 2011 with the maturation of 54% of the planned end points. Two hundred fifty-two SPTs (from 224 patients) developed, of which 98 (from 97 patients) were lung cancer (38.9%). Lung and overall SPT incidence were 1.62 and 3.54 per 100 person-years, respectively, for selenium versus 1.30 and 3.39 per 100 person-years, respectively, for placebo (P = .294). Five-year disease-free survival was 74.4% for selenium recipients versus 79.6% for placebo recipients. Grade 1 to 2 toxicity occurred in 31% of selenium recipients and 26% of placebo recipients, and grade ≥ 3 toxicity occurred in less than 2% of selenium recipients versus 3% of placebo recipients. Compliance was excellent. No increase in diabetes mellitus or skin cancer was detected.

Conclusion

Selenium was safe but conferred no benefit over placebo in the prevention of SPT in patients with resected NSCLC.
Thyroid Hormone Stimulates the Proliferation of Sertoli Cells and Single Type A Spermatogonia in Adult Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Testis
Authors: Morais R. D. V. S. , Nóbrega R. H. , Gómez-González N. E. , Schmidt R. , Bogerd J. , França L. R. , Schulz R. W.
Published: September 2013

Thyroid hormones participate in regulating growth and homeostatic processes in vertebrates, including development and adult functioning of the reproductive system. Here we report a new stimulatory role of thyroid hormone on the proliferation of Sertoli cells (SCs) and single, type A undifferentiated spermatogonia (Aund) in adult zebrafish testes. A role for T3 in zebrafish testis is suggested by in situ hybridization studies, which localized thyroid receptor α (thrα) in SCs and the β (thrβ) mRNA in Sertoli and Leydig cells. Using a primary zebrafish testis tissue culture system, the effect of T3 on steroid release, spermatogenesis, and the expression of selected genes was evaluated. Basal steroid release and Leydig cell gene expression did not change in response to T3. However, in the presence of FSH, T3 potentiated gonadotropin-stimulated androgen release as well as androgen receptor (ar) and 17α-hydroxylase/17,20 lyase (cyp17a1) gene expression. Moreover, T3 alone stimulated the proliferation of both SCs and Aund, potentially resulting in newly formed spermatogonial cysts. Additional tissue culture studies demonstrated that Igf3, a new, gonad-specific member of the IGF family, mediated the stimulatory effect of T3 on the proliferation of Aund and SCs. Finally, T3 induced changes in connexin 43 mRNA levels in the testis, a known T3-responsive gene. Taken together, our studies suggest that T3 expands the population of SCs and Aund involving Igf signaling and potentiates gonadotropin-stimulated testicular androgen production as well as androgen sensitivity.