bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Situ TEM Study on Au Mediated Growth of NiSi2 in Si Nanowire: A Vapor-Liquid-Solid Analogy
Authors: Tang Wei , Picraux S Tom , Liu Xiaohua , Tu King-Ning , Dayeh Shadi A
Published: October 2014

The vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) mechanism is the prominent growth process for semiconductor nanowires (NWs), for example in Si NW growth. By forming Au-Si eutectic alloy, Si atoms can be sufficiently mobile in the liquid while finding their crystal sites before precipitating out into a solid phase. We report here an in-situ TEM study of new solid-liquid-solid (SLS) Ni disilicide phase growth mechanism in Si NWs that is analogous to the VLS mechanism in being a liquid-mediated growth, but is fundamentally different in terms of nucleation and mass transport. The new mechanism can be potentially used in synthesizing metallic nanowires without templates.
(Invited) Epitaxial Growth of Nanodots on Si Substrates with Controlled Interfaces and Their Application to Electronics and Thermoelectronics
Authors: Nakamura Yoshiaki , Sakai Akira
Published: October 2014

Epitaxial growth technique of Fe-based nanodots (NDs) on Si substrates was developed using the ultrathin SiO2 films. Fe, Fe germanide, and Fe oxide NDs were epitaxailly grown with ultrahigh density on Si substrates, where the interfaces between NDs and substrates were atomically sharp. To control the crystal structure of NDs, the control of the nuclei for ND growth substrates was important at the nucleation stage. The well-controlled nuclei also suppressed the undesirable reactions such as intermixing of Fe and Si or of Fe and Ge resulting in the atomically sharp interfaces between NDs and substrates. These NDs with well-controlled interfaces epitaxially grown on Si substrates exhibited the prospects for application to some devices
Influence of Surface States on Electronic Band Structure and Electron Density in InAs Nanowires and InAs Shell Nanowires
Authors: Demarina Nataliya , Grützmacher Detlev
Published: October 2014

We report on a theoretical study of the impact of surface states on the electronic band structure and on the electron density in intrinsic cylindrical InAs nanowires and InAs shell nanowires (nanotubes). Solving coupled Poisson and Schroedinger equations we show that the electric field induced by the positively charged donor-type surface states bends the conduction band. For a surface states density above 1012 cm-2 the Fermi level is pinned above the conduction band edge in the vicinity of the neutrality level. Downwards bending of the conduction band leads to the formation of a triangular-shaped n-type channel at the nanowire surface and a square-shaped n-type channel in the nanotube. The square-type profile of the conduction band in the nanotubes enables to reach a higher electron density in comparison with nanowires, if the shell thickness exceeds 15 nm. In nanotubes, the stronger confinement leads to the occupation of only the lowest energy subband, whereas in the triangular well of InAs nanowires typically at least subbands are occupied.
Dynamical Imaging of Nickel Disilicide Nucleation and Step Flow Propagation in Defect-Engineered Si Nanowire
Authors: Tang Wei , Picraux S Tom , Gusak Andriy M , Tu King-Ning , Dayeh Shadi A
Published: October 2014

The Ni silicides and Si metal-semiconductor contacts are a vital element in the state-of-the-art commercial transistor devices. The latest source/drain (S/D) engineering technology designs the S/D crystal structure (e.g. intentional incorporation of stacking faults) that strains the channel to enhance device performance. Understanding the role of structural alternation, or defects, in Si-Ni reaction is therefore important in achieving precise control of the contact formation process at an atomic scale. Here, we present a study of Si-Ni reaction by lattice-resolved in-situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and found that presence of defects in Si can fundamentally change the silicide nucleation mechanism and growth behavior.
Comorbidity and Healthcare Expenditure in Women with Osteoporosis Living in the Basque Country (Spain)
Authors: Nuño-Solinis Roberto , Rodríguez-Pereira Carolina , Alonso-Morán Edurne , Orueta Juan F.
Published: October 2014

Objectives.This study aimed to establish the prevalence of multimorbidity in women diagnosed with osteoporosis and to report it by deprivation index. The characteristics of comorbidity in osteoporotic women are compared to the general female chronic population, and the impact on healthcare expenditure of this population group is estimated.Methods.A cross-sectional analysis that included all Basque Country women aged 45 years and over (N= 579,575) was performed. Sociodemographic, diagnostic, and healthcare cost data were extracted from electronic databases for a one-year period. Chronic conditions were identified from their diagnoses and prescriptions. The existence of two or more chronic diseases out of a list of 47 was defined as multimorbidity.Results.9.12% of women presented osteoporosis and 85.04% of them were multimorbid. Although multimorbidity in osteoporosis increased with age and deprivation level, prevalence was higher in the better-off groups. Women with osteoporosis had greater risk of having other musculoskeletal disorders but less risk of having diabetes (RR = 0.65) than chronic patients without osteoporosis. People with poorer socioeconomic status had higher healthcare cost.Conclusions.Most women with osteoporosis have multimorbidity. The variety of conditions emphasises the complexity of clinical management in this group and the importance of maintaining a generalist and multidisciplinary approach to their clinical care.
Macular Oedema in Idiopathic Macular Telangiectasia Type 1 Responsive to Aflibercept but Not Bevacizumab
Authors: Shibeeb O’Sam , Vaze Anagha , Gillies Mark , Gray Timothy
Published: October 2014

We report a patient with macular oedema due to type 1 macular telangiectasia responding to intravitreal aflibercept injection. A 51-year-old man was diagnosed with type 1 idiopathic macular telangiectasia (IMT) in the right eye. The macular oedema was refractory to initial treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab and argon laser photocoagulation. The patient was then treated with intravitreal aflibercept injections, following which the macular oedema was completely resolved and his vision was significantly improved. Intravitreal aflibercept injection appears to improve vision and reduce persistent macular oedema secondary to type 1 IMT and demonstrated promising anatomical and visual outcomes.
The Relatively Free Groups F(Nc∧A2) Satisfy Noncentral Commutative Transitivity
Authors: Gaglione Anthony M. , Lipschutz Seymour , Spellman Dennis
Published: October 2014

We prove that a free group, F(Nc∧A2), relative to the variety, Nc∧A2, of all groups simultaneously nilpotent of class at most c and metabelian is such that the centralizer of every noncentral element is abelian. We relate that result to the model theory of such groups as well as a quest to find a relative analog in Nc∧A2 of a classical theorem of Benjamin Baumslag. We also touch briefly on similar considerations in the varieties Nc of nilpotent groups.
Determination of Mercury Exposure among Dental Health Workers in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand
Authors: Decharat Somsiri , Phethuayluk Piriyaluk , Maneelok Supandee , Thepaksorn Phayong
Published: October 2014

Objectives. The main objective of this study was to assess the mercury exposure levels in dental health workers that work in dental clinics. The study evaluated the airborne and urinary mercury levels, the type of work done in the clinic, and the effect of mercury exposure on health of dental health workers.Material and Methods. A case-control study was conducted with 124 exposed and 124 matched nonexposed subjects. Personal and area samplings were conducted to quantify mercury concentrations by solid sorbent tube. Urine samples were collected to determine mercury levels by cold-vapor atomic absorption spectrometer mercury analyzer.Results and Discussion. 17.6% (n=32/182) of the air samples were higher than the occupational exposure limit (OEL). A multiple regression model was constructed. Significant predictors of urinary mercury levels included dietary consumption (fish or seafood), duration of work (yrs), work position, personal protection equipment used (PPE), and personal hygiene behaviors. Significant correlations were observed between mercury levels in urine and mercury in storage areas (r=0.499,P<0.05) and between mercury levels in urine and airborne mercury in personal samplings (r=0.878,P<0.001).Conclusion. Improvements in working conditions, occupational health training, and PPE use are recommended to reduce mercury exposure.
Comparison of IVF Outcomes between Minimal Stimulation and High-Dose Stimulation for Patients with Poor Ovarian Reserve
Authors: Lazer Tal , Dar Shir , Shlush Ekaterina , Al Kudmani Basheer S. , Quach Kevin , Sojecki Agata , Glass Karen , Sharma Prati , Baratz Ari , Librach Clifford L.
Published: October 2014

We examined whether treatment with minimum-dose stimulation (MS) protocol enhances clinical pregnancy rates compared to high-dose stimulation (HS) protocol. A retrospective cohort study was performed comparing IVF and pregnancy outcomes between MS and HS gonadotropin-antagonist protocol for patients with poor ovarian reserve (POR). Inclusion criteria included patients with an anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) ≤8 pmol/L and/or antral follicle count (AFC) ≤5 on days 2-3 of the cycle. Patients from 2008 exclusively had a HS protocol treatment, while patients in 2010 had treatment with a MS protocol exclusively. The MS protocol involved letrozole at 2.5 mg over 5 days, starting from day 2, overlapping with gonadotropins, starting from the third day of letrozole at 150 units daily. GnRH antagonist was introduced once one or more follicles reached 14 mm or larger. The HS group received gonadotropins (≥300 IU/day) throughout their antagonist cycle. Clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the MS protocol compared to the HS protocol (P=0.007). Furthermore, the live birth rate was significantly higher in the MS group compare to the HS group (P=0.034). In conclusion, the MS IVF protocol is less expensive (lower gonadotropin dosage) and resulted in a higher clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate than a HS protocol for poor responders.
Sediment Chemistry and Meiofauna from the Northern Gulf of Mexico Continental Shelf
Authors: Martinec Ceil C. , Miller Jonathan M. , Barron Nathan K. , Tao Rui , Yu Kewei , Stewart Paul M. , Nichols Alfred C. , Steffy David A. , Landers Stephen C.
Published: October 2014

This study examined sediment chemistry, granulometry, and meiofauna on the northern Gulf of Mexico continental shelf from central Louisiana to Apalachicola, Florida. Sediment samples were collected in October/November 2012 with a Shipek grab sampler from 26 locations (extending from 28°18′46.079′′N, 91°10′44.471′′W to 29°3′48.383′′N, 85°28′25.679′′W) at depths ranging from 49 to 361 m. Sediment analysis revealed two distinct profiles to the east and west of the Mississippi River Delta at approximately 88°30′W. The concentrations of silt + clay, organic carbon, Ba, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn were higher in western sites and positively correlated with Al concentrations. Eastern sites contained sandier sediments with lower organic carbon concentrations and higher Sr and Ca concentrations. Nematode densities were higher at western sites and positively correlated with Al, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn, silt + clay, and organic carbon concentrations. Copepod densities correlated with very coarse + coarse sand, exhibiting higher densities at eastern sites. PAH concentrations were relatively low, with all sites having <1700 µg/kg total PAHs. This study has revealed two distinct sediment profiles in the eastern and western zones of the study, which appear to influence the nematode and copepod densities.
Race Has Always Mattered: An Intergeneration Look at Race, Space, Place, and Educational Experiences of Blacks
Authors: Yull Denise G.
Published: October 2014

Within school settings race continues to be one of the most formidable obstacles for Black children in the United States (US) school system. This paper expands the discussions of race in education by exploring how the social links among race, space, and place provide a lens for understanding the persistence of racism in the educational experiences of Black children. This paper examines how differences in a rural versus urban geographical location influence a student’s experience with race, racism, and racial identity across four generations of Black people in the context of school and community. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Dental Caries Prevalence among 12–15 Year Old Palestinian Children
Authors: Mahfouz Maen , Abu Esaid Albina
Published: October 2014

Objective. To measure the distribution of dental caries in a group of Palestinian adolescents. Material and Methods. A sample of 677 individuals of both sexes (411 were females and 266 were males) their ages ranged from 12 to 15 year old randomly selected from schools in northern west bank in Palestine. Clinical examination was performed on all the subjects focusing on the index DMFT, representing the number of teeth that were either decayed, missing or with extraction indicated, or restored. Results. The prevalence of dental caries in the permanent dentition was 54.35% and was the highest in 15 age 75.75% in comparison to the other ages (12, 13, and 14) (40.57%, 41.76%, and 60.47%), respectively. The mean DMFT for the sample was 5.39 ± 2.85525 while the mean DMFT for different age groups (12–15) was 5.52 ± 2.766, 5.58 ± 2.745, 5.23 ± 3.304, and 5.23 ± 2.606, respectively. The prevalence of dental caries was higher in females with DMFT 5.39 ± 2.854 than males with DMFT 5.26 ± 2.891. Conclusion. High prevalent dental caries was found among Palestinian adolescents and higher in females than males. Strict preventive programs should be implemented. Further research with large samples required to include all adolescents from Palestine.
Anterior Approach in a Huge Lipomatous Tumor of the Thigh
Authors: Faig-Martí Jordi
Published: October 2014

Confronted with a huge lipomatous anterior thigh tumor, the surgical approach had to be assessed. Those described in the literature did not seem appropriate for our case so some modifications were made. We present the case of a 77-year-old woman who presented with a huge anterior thigh compartment tumor with one-year evolution. Magnetic resonance imaging informed the presence of a lipomatous tumor with a possible vascular contact. Based on Thomson’s anterior approach, but modifying the skin incision, the medial distal femur was reached until the neurovascular bundle and, proximally, the lesser trochanter. The tumor was totally resected due to a good visualization using this approach.
Phosphoinositide Protein Kinase PDPK1 Is a Crucial Cell Signaling Mediator in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Chinen Yoshiaki , Kuroda Junya , Shimura Yuji , Nagoshi Hisao , Kiyota Miki , Yamamoto-Sugitani Mio , Mizutani Shinsuke , Sakamoto Natsumi , Ri Masaki , Kawata Eri , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Matsumoto Yosuke , Horiike Shigeo , Iida Shinsuke , Taniwaki Masafumi
Published: October 2014

Multiple myeloma is a cytogenetically/molecularly heterogeneous hematologic malignancy that remains mostly incurable, and the identification of a universal and relevant therapeutic target molecule is essential for the further development of therapeutic strategy. Herein, we identified that 3-phosphoinositide–dependent protein kinase 1 (PDPK1), a serine threonine kinase, is expressed and active in all eleven multiple myeloma–derived cell lines examined regardless of the type of cytogenetic abnormality, the mutation state of RAS and FGFR3 genes, or the activation state of ERK and AKT. Our results revealed that PDPK1 is a pivotal regulator of molecules that are essential for myelomagenesis, such as RSK2, AKT, c-MYC, IRF4, or cyclin Ds, and that PDPK1 inhibition caused the growth inhibition and the induction of apoptosis with the activation of BIM and BAD, and augmented the in vitro cytotoxic effects of antimyeloma agents in myeloma cells. In the clinical setting, PDPK1 was active in myeloma cells of approximately 90% of symptomatic patients at diagnosis, and the smaller population of patients with multiple myeloma exhibiting myeloma cells without active PDPK1 showed a significantly less frequent proportion of the disease stage III by the International Staging System and a significantly more favorable prognosis, including the longer overall survival period and the longer progression-free survival period by bortezomib treatment, than patients with active PDPK1, suggesting that PDPK1 activation accelerates the disease progression and the resistance to treatment in multiple myeloma. Our study demonstrates that PDPK1 is a potent and a universally targetable signaling mediator in multiple myeloma regardless of the types of cytogenetic/molecular profiles. Cancer Res; 74(24); 7418–29. ©2014 AACR.
Attribution of 12 High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Genotypes to Infection and Cervical Disease
Authors: Joura Elmar A. , Ault Kevin A. , Bosch F. Xavier , Brown Darron , Cuzick Jack , Ferris Daron , Garland Suzanne M. , Giuliano Anna R. , Hernandez-Avila Mauricio , Huh Warner , Iversen Ole-Erik , Kjaer Susanne K. , Luna Joaquin , Miller Dianne , Monsonego Joseph , Munoz Nubia , Myers Evan , Paavonen Jorma , Pitisuttithum Punnee , Steben Marc , Wheeler Cosette M. , Perez Gonzalo , Saah Alfred , Luxembourg Alain , Sings Heather L. , Velicer Christine
Published: October 2014

Background: We estimated the prevalence and incidence of 14 human papillomavirus (HPV) types (6/11/16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59) in cervicovaginal swabs, and the attribution of these HPV types in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS), using predefined algorithms that adjusted for multiple-type infected lesions.

Methods: A total of 10,656 women ages 15 to 26 years and 1,858 women ages 24 to 45 years were enrolled in the placebo arms of one of three clinical trials of a quadrivalent HPV vaccine. We estimated the cumulative incidence of persistent infection and the proportion of CIN/AIS attributable to individual carcinogenic HPV genotypes, as well as the proportion of CIN/AIS lesions potentially preventable by a prophylactic 9-valent HPV6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52/58 vaccine.

Results: The cumulative incidence of persistent infection with ≥1 of the seven high-risk types included in the 9-valent vaccine was 29%, 12%, and 6% for women ages 15 to 26, 24 to 34, and 35 to 45 years, respectively. A total of 2,507 lesions were diagnosed as CIN or AIS by an expert pathology panel. After adjusting for multiple-type infected lesions, among women ages 15 to 45 years, these seven high-risk types were attributed to 43% to 55% of CIN1, 70% to 78% of CIN2, 85% to 91% of CIN3, and 95% to 100% of AIS lesions, respectively. The other tested types (HPV35/39/51/56/59) were attributed to 23% to 30% of CIN1, 7% to 14% of CIN2, 3% to 4% of CIN3, and 0% of AIS lesions, respectively.

Conclusions: Approximately 85% or more of CIN3/AIS, >70% CIN2, and approximately 50% of CIN1 lesions worldwide are attributed to HPV6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52/58.

Impact: If 9-valent HPV vaccination programs are effectively implemented, the majority of CIN2 and CIN3 lesions worldwide could be prevented, in addition to approximately one-half of CIN1. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(10); 1997–2008. ©2014 AACR.
A Retrospective Analysis of Psychosocial Risk Factors Modulating Adolescent Alcohol Binge Drinking
Authors: Groß Cornelius , Neumann Maike , Kalkbrenner Manja , Mick Inge , Lachnit Andreas , Reichert Jörg , Klotsche Jens , Zimmermann Ulrich S.
Published: October 2014

Background/Aims: Adolescent alcohol binge-induced hospital admissions (BIHAs) are an increasing problem in Europe. We investigated whether psychosocial factors (e.g., drinking situations, drinking occasions and neighborhood unemployment) are associated with particularly risky patterns of alcohol or substance use. Method: We performed a systematic retrospective chart review of all the respective cases in 2003-2008 (n = 586; age range: 12-17 years) from both pediatric hospitals in the city of Dresden, Germany. Results: The vast majority of adolescent BIHAs were associated with drinking together with peers at weekend parties. Compared to this ‘typical' drinking pattern, adolescents drinking ‘atypically' (i.e., drinking either alone, to cope or despite the fact that the next day was a school/work day) more often had already used alcohol and illegal substances before and were more often diagnosed with substance use disorders and other mental disorders prior to BIHA. The unemployment rate in the patients' neighborhood was positively related to the incidence proportion of adolescent BIHAs in the respective subdistricts (rs = 0.61). Conclusion: Adolescent atypical drinking may indicate an increased risk for the development of alcohol and substance use disorders. This information is quickly accessible and can alert clinicians to initiate psychosocial aftercare; their infrastructure should address the strong relation between BIHA probability and neighborhood unemployment rates.
Auszählung zirkulierender Tumorzellen in Verbindung mit Bildgebung und Serumkonzentration des Prostata-spezifischen Antigens im Therapie-Management des metastasierten Prostatakarzinoms
Authors: Goodman Oscar , Schuur Eric R.
Published: October 2014

Optimales Therapie-Management kann die Lebensqualität und möglicherweise auch die Überlebensdauer von Patienten mit einem metastasierten Prostatakarzinom verbessern. Die Auszählung der zirkulierenden Tumorzellen (CTCs) im peripheren Blut kann ein optimales Therapie-Management ermöglichen, da die CTC-Zahl hochgradig tumorspezifisch ist und Veränderungen des Krankheitsstatus umgehend widerspiegelt. Wir stellen hier den Fall eines 54-jährigen Mannes vor, bei dem ein metastasiertes Prostatakarzinom diagnostiziert wurde. Der Krankheitsstatus des Patienten wurde radiologisch und durch serielle Bestimmungen des Prostata-spezifischen Antigens im Serum, des Performance-Status und der CTC-Zahl überwacht. Aufgrund widersprüchlicher Ergebnisse der Standarduntersuchungen blieb der Krankheitsstatus jedoch bei mehreren Terminen unklar. Die Zusatzinformation durch die Auszählung der CTCs trug zur Klärung des Krankheitsstatus und zur Entscheidungsfindung für das weitere therapeutische Vorgehen bei.
Early Intervention with Adalimumab May Contribute to Favorable Clinical Efficacy in Patients with Crohn's Disease
Authors: Miyoshi Jun , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Naganuma Makoto , Maruyama Yuriko , Yoneno Kazuaki , Mori Kiyoto , Kiyohara Hiroki , Nanki Kosaku , Okamoto Susumu , Yajima Tomoharu , Iwao Yasushi , Ogata Haruhiko , Hibi Toshifumi , Kanai Takanori
Published: October 2014

Background: We evaluated the clinical efficacy of adalimumab (ADA) for Crohn's disease (CD) and analyzed predictive factors for clinical remission and long-term prognosis. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 45 patients treated with ADA for CD at Keio University Hospital between October 2010 and March 2014. Clinical remission was defined as a Harvey-Bradshaw index of ≤4. Results: Twenty-eight of 45 patients (62.2%) achieved clinical remission at week 4. Among these 28 patients, 18 patients (64.3%) maintained clinical remission at week 26, and among these, 16 patients (88.9%) maintained clinical remission at week 52. Absence of a history of bowel resection and absence of prior anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy were significant predictive factors for clinical remission at week 4 upon multivariate logistic regression analyses. Younger age and a disease duration of ≤3 years correlated with clinical remission at week 26 upon univariate analyses. Patients without a history of bowel resection showed significantly better long-term prognosis than those with a history of bowel resection (p = 0.01). None of the patients contracted a serious infectious disease. Conclusions: Younger age, shorter duration of disease, being naive to anti-TNF antagonists, and absence of a history of bowel resection were associated with the efficacy of ADA in CD patients.
Clinical Study on Chronic Pain in Parkinson's Disease Patients in Shanghai, China
Authors: Pan Weidong , Liu Jun , Wang Quidong , Lu Hua , Bai Yu , Liu Yi , Chen Xiangjun , Li Wentao , Li Wenwei , Song Yu , Wang Heng , Wu Yuncheng , Xu Meng , Zhou Hua
Published: October 2014

Background/Aims: Pain in Parkinson's disease (PD) may be more distressing than that in other nonmotor disabilities. The aims of the present study were to assess the prevalence and identify the epidemiological characteristics of PD-related pain among patients with idiopathic PD in Shanghai, China. Methods: A total of 1,058 patients with definite idiopathic PD were investigated using a structure questionnaire in 12 hospitals in Shanghai. The severity of their motor disorders, antiparkinson treatments, and pain-related observations, such as time points for the onset of pain, duration and degree, body localization, external influences, and treatments for pain, were collected for analysis. Results: Approximately 28% (296 subjects) of all PD patients suffered from PD-related pain. Female patients with pain had a higher age level, were older at PD onset, had a higher frequency of pain, a higher frequency of pain before the onset of PD symptoms, a longer duration of pain, and a higher incidence of pain in the early stage compared to male patients. Larger levodopa-equivalent doses, higher frequencies of sleep disorders and/or motor fluctuation, and/or dyskinesia were found in patients with pain compared to patients without pain. The most frequent pain type was musculoskeletal pain followed by dystonia. The male group had a much shorter pain duration than the female group. The patients experienced more pain before taking antiparkinson drugs compared to after treatment. Conclusion: Chronic PD-related pain is a frequent complaint and complex in PD. The challenge of managing pain in PD patients will hopefully someday result in specific and effective treatment strategies. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
A Case Report on Allergic Rash Caused by Icodextrin
Authors: Köksal Cevher Şimal , Ozkayar Nihal , Dede Fatih
Published: October 2014

Icodextrin may be used as an alternative to glucose as the osmotic agent in peritoneal dialysis with ultrafiltration failure. In general, icodextrin is known to be safe and well tolerated, but it can also cause hypersensitivity reactions such as skin rashes. Allergic rashes are generally defined as erythematous, itchy and maculopapular, visible over the trunk and the extremities. When a rash occurs, it generally develops early in therapy, is self-limited, and resolves without sequelae after the discontinuation of icodextrin. Although the safety and efficacy of icodextrin peritoneal dialysis solution is well documented, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of severe adverse cutaneous reactions to it. We report the case of a 23-year-old female who developed a skin rash following the use of icodextrin.
Selling Dreams: An Overview of Slimming Products' Advertisements in Switzerland
Authors: Droz Nadège , Marques-Vidal Pedro
Published: October 2014

Objective: The aim of this work was to assess weight loss claims of slimming products available in Switzerland. Method: Between May 2008 and February 2013, 31 advertisements for 13 slimming products were analyzed. Results: Total daily weight loss claims ranged between 300 g and 1 kg. 84% of the advertisements included the photograph of a woman, 61% showed a picture of a person before and after using the product, and 51% claimed that the product had improved marital relationships. The terms ‘natural', ‘miracle/extraordinary' and ‘scientific' were present in 92%, 77% and 31% of the advertisements, respectively. Cost for one package of the product ranged between CHF 49.00 and 59.00 (USD 52.00 and 63.00), and no correlation was found between cost and weight loss claims. No differences were found for weight loss claims according to presence or absence of a picture or of the terms ‘natural', ‘miracle/extraordinary', and ‘scientific'. Assuming that 5.3% of readers bought the product, yearly revenues would range between CHF 12.5 and 33.8 million (USD 13.4 and 36.2 million). Conclusions: In Switzerland, advertisements for slimming products use positive and reassuring terms to attract consumers, which are lured by unreachable, false promises of rapid and easy weight loss.
Effect of Low Perceived Social Support on Health Outcomes in Young Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction: Results From the Variation in Recovery: Role of Gender on Outcomes of Young AMI Patients (VIRGO) Study
Authors: Bucholz Emily M. , Strait Kelly M. , Dreyer Rachel P. , Geda Mary , Spatz Erica S. , Bueno Hector , Lichtman Judith H. , D'Onofrio Gail , Spertus John A. , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: October 2014

Background

Social support is an important predictor of health outcomes after acute myocardial infarction (
AMI
), but social support varies by sex and age. Differences in social support could account for sex differences in outcomes of young patients with
AMI
.

Methods and Results

Data from the Variation in Recovery: Role of Gender on Outcomes of Young
AMI
Patients (
VIRGO
) study, an observational study of
AMI
patients aged ≤55 years in the United States and Spain, were used for this study. Patients were categorized as having low versus moderate/high perceived social support using the
ENRICHD
Social Support Inventory. Outcomes included health status (Short Form‐12 physical and mental component scores), depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire), and angina‐related quality of life (Seattle Angina Questionnaire) evaluated at baseline and 12 months. Among 3432 patients, 21.2% were classified as having low social support. Men and women had comparable levels of social support at baseline. On average, patients with low social support reported lower functional status and quality of life and more depressive symptoms at baseline and 12 months post‐
AMI
. After multivariable adjustment, including baseline health status, low social support was associated with lower mental functioning, lower quality of life, and more depressive symptoms at 12 months (all
P
<0.001). The relationship between low social support and worse physical functioning was nonsignificant after adjustment (
P
=0.6). No interactions were observed between social support, sex, or country.

Conclusion

Lower social support is associated with worse health status and more depressive symptoms 12 months after
AMI
in both young men and women. Sex did not modify the effect of social support.
Phase II Trial of the Sigma-1 Receptor Agonist Cutamesine (SA4503) for Recovery Enhancement After Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Urfer Roman , Moebius Hans J. , Skoloudik David , Santamarina Estevo , Sato Wakao , Mita Shiro , Muir Keith W.
Published: October 2014

Background and Purpose—

The σ-1 receptor (Sig-1R) agonist cutamesine (SA4503) enhanced functional recovery after experimental stroke with a treatment initiation window of 48 hours and chronic treatment for 28 days. We conducted a phase 2 clinical trial exploring the safety, tolerability, dose range, and functional effects of cutamesine in patients with ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Subjects were randomized between 48 and 72 hours after stroke to receive cutamesine 1 mg/d, 3 mg/d, or placebo for 28 days. Effects on safety and function were assessed at baseline, at end of treatment (day 28), and at end of follow-up (day 56).

Results—

In 60 patients, treatment with both cutamesine dosages was safe and well tolerated without significant differences in numbers of treatment emergent or serious adverse events. No significant effect was observed on the primary efficacy measure (change in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale from baseline to day 56) or modified Rankin Scale and Barthel Index scores. Post hoc analysis of moderately and severely affected patients (baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, ≥7 and ≥10) showed greater National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale improvements in the 3 mg/d cutamesine group when compared with placebo (
P
=0.034 and
P
=0.038, respectively). A trend toward a higher proportion being able to complete a 10m timed walk was observed for cutamesine-treated subjects.

Conclusions—

Cutamesine was safe and well tolerated at both dosage levels. Although no significant effects on functional end points were seen in the population as a whole, greater improvement in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores among patients with greater pretreatment deficits seen in post hoc analysis warrants further investigation. Additional studies should focus on the patient population with moderate-to-severe stroke.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT00639249
. Unique identifier: NCT00639249. The EudraCT number is 2007-004840-60 (
https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2007-004840-60/GB
).
Hemorrhagic Stroke and Cerebral Paragonimiasis
Authors: Xia Yong , Ju Yan , Chen Jing , You Chao
Published: October 2014

Background and Purpose—

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and imaging characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes of 10 patients with hemorrhagic cerebral paragonimiasis (CP), and we evaluated the influence of
Paragonimus
infection on cerebrovascular damage.

Methods—

Ten patients (7 male and 3 female; median age 15.7 years, range 4–46 years) with hemorrhagic CP were diagnosed between April 2009 and January 2013. All patients underwent the head computed tomography scans and 9 patients underwent MRI examinations. Four patients underwent computed tomographic angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, and digital subtraction angiography. Liquid-based cytological examination of cerebrospinal fluid was performed in 7 patients. Follow-up examinations were performed for 9 cases for a period of 12 to 62 months.

Results—

Hemorrhagic CP accounted for 37% of CP cases (10/27). No patients were initially diagnosed with CP. The major symptoms of hemorrhagic CP included acute headache, vomiting, hemiparalysis, epilepsy, blurred vision, sensory impairment, and tinnitus. Four cases were surgically treated. Most symptoms markedly improved, but fine motor dysfunction and mental dysfunction remained in 3 surgical patients.

Conclusions—

Hemorrhagic stroke typically occurred during the acute stage and in the early stages of further
Paragonimus
migration. Delay of treatment increased the risk of initial and recurrent stroke.
Philosophy of Praxis, Ideology-Critique, and the Relevance of a ‘Luxemburg-Gramsci Line’
Authors: Rehmann Jan
Published: October 2014

After highlighting the philological and theoretical fortes of Peter Thomas’s The Gramscian Moment, the intervention questions his assumption of Gramsci’s allegedly ‘neutral’ concept of ideology. This interpretation is one-sided in that it leaves out the ideology-critique adopted via Labriola and practised throughout Gramsci’s work. Gramsci’s perspective of rendering people’s common sense more coherent opens up a more democratic perspective than Kautsky’s and Lenin’s notion that socialist class-consciousness is to be brought ‘from without’. The intervention argues that the reconstruction of a ‘Luxemburg-Gramsci line’ is of importance for today’s debates and struggles.
Gramsci’s ‘Non-contemporaneity’
Authors: Frosini Fabio
Published: October 2014

Peter D. Thomas’s bookThe Gramscian Moment: Philosophy, Hegemony and Marxismdraws us to reflect on a point that Gramsci’s interpreters have often neglected: the particular structure of thePrison Notebooks, i.e., the ways in which the text was constituted and, dependent on that, the fundamental methodological criteria for its interpretation. Thomas’s book is a consummate synthesis between the deep and detailed study of theNotebookstext and the need to reconstruct some order within; between close historical-philosophical assessment and theoretical proposal within contemporary Marxist (and para-Marxist) debate. Consequently, this book confronts us – as Gramsci’s present-day readers – with a task that no-one can face alone, but that is nonetheless extraordinarily urgent: the task of intervening in the debate within the post-modern and post-Marxist Left so that the link between Marxism and philosophy is resumed, starting out from Gramsci himself. In short: a revival of Marx through Gramsci, through – in turn – a return of the philosophy of praxis as Marxism for our own day.
Neither an Instrument nor a Fortress
Authors: Sotiris Panagiotis
Published: October 2014

Peter Thomas has written an important book that brings forward the full importance of Gramsci’s strategic concepts and the pertinence they have for current theoretical and political debates. Based upon this interpretation of Gramsci, this text attempts a critical reading of the contradictory stance of the Althusserian School towards his work. Using Althusser’s own ambivalence towards Gramsci as a starting-point, the main aim of this article is to reconstruct Poulantzas’s direct and indirect dialogue with Gramsci. Despite Poulantzas’s reservations and criticisms regarding aspects of Gramsci’s work, his theoretical endeavour not only is indebted to Gramsci, but also represents, despite its shortcomings and limits, one of the more original and profound theoretical attempts to come to terms with the theoretical challenges posed by Gramsci’s elaboration on hegemony, hegemonic apparatuses and the ‘integral state’.
A new toothed pterosaur (Pterodactyloidea: Anhangueridae) from the Early Cretaceous Romualdo Formation, NE Brazil
Authors: BANTIM RENAN A. M. , SARAIVA ANTÔNIO A. F. , OLIVEIRA GUSTAVO R. , SAYÃO JULIANA M.
Published: October 2014

A new species of pterosaur, Maaradactylus kellneri gen. nov., sp. nov. (Archosauria: Pterosauria) from the Romualdo Formation (Aptian/Albian), is herein described. The specimen (MPSC R 2357) was found at Sítio São Gonçalo, Santana do Cariri city (State of Ceará, northeast Brazil) and consists of the skull, atlas and axis, and represents one of the largest skulls of the Anhangueridae from the Araripe Basin described. The autapomorphies of the new pterosaur include the following characters: a premaxillary sagittal crest that is relatively long and high, beginning at the anterior part of the skull (rostrum) and extending to the 22nd pair of alveoli, not covering the nasoantorbital fenestra or the choanaes, and also the presence of 35 pairs of alveoli; smooth palatal ridge, which starts on the 5th pair of alveoli and ends on the 13th pair; palate is convex shaped in the anterior region; choanae not extending laterally; small and convex palatal elevation; the 5th, 6th and 7th alveoli smaller than the 4th and 8th; the alveoli decreasing in size from the 9th to the 12th and increasing from the 13th to 18th, and from the 18th to the 35th they are arranged in triplets. Furthermore, the lateral surface of the premaxillary crest shows grooves and tridimensional structures that may have housed blood vessels.
A new skink (Scincidae: Carlia) from the rainforest uplands of Cape Melville, north-east Australia
Authors: HOSKIN CONRAD J.
Published: October 2014

Carlia skinks are widespread in New Guinea, Wallacea, and northern and eastern Australia. Most Australian species occur in dry woodlands and savannas or marginal rainforest habitats associated with these. There are two rainforest species, parapatrically distributed in coastal mid-eastern Queensland (C. rhomboidalis) and the Wet Tropics of north-eastern Queensland (C. rubrigularis). These two sister species share a diagnostic morphological trait in having the interparietal scale fused to the frontoparietal. Here I describe a third species in this group, Carlia wundalthini sp. nov., from rainforest uplands of the Melville Range, a rainforest isolate 170 km north of the Wet Tropics. This species is diagnosable on male breeding colouration, morphometrics and scalation. The description of C. wundalthini sp. nov. brings the number of vertebrate species known to be endemic to the rainforest and boulder-fields of Cape Melville to seven. Carlia wundalthini sp. nov. is distinct among these endemics in being the only one that does not appear to be directly associated with rock, being found in rainforest leaf-litter.
Extraneous round Window Membranes and Plugs: Possible Effect on Intratympanic Therapy
Authors: Alzamil Khalid S. , Linthicum Fred H.
Published: October 2014

Recently there has been increasing interest in the possibility of treating inner ear disorders by application of medication into the middle ear on the premise that it will diffuse through the round window membrane into the inner ear. We examined 202 temporal bones from 117 patients to determine the frequency of round window niche obstruction. Patients ranged in age at the time of death from 31 to 97 years. Eleven percent of the ears were found to have fibrous tissue or a fat plug, and 21% had an extraneous (false) round window membrane. Of the 85 patients from whom both temporal bones were examined, 56% had no obstruction in either ear, while 22% had obstruction in both ears. We conclude that anatomic variations of the round window niche may explain the wide variations found in dosage of medication required to produce a clinical result.
Encounters with Challenging Bronchial Foreign Bodies: Impromptu Adaptation of Technique
Authors: Gibson William S. , Vrabec Donald P.
Published: October 2014

We present a retrospective review of 2 cases of unusual foreign bodies and discuss methods needed for successful removal of the objects. The review stresses the need for preparation in managing difficult and unexpected situations. Specific instrumentation as well as surgical resourcefulness provided for successful removal of a carrot fragment in one instance and a plastic bead in the other. The need to individualize tracheobronchial foreign body extraction is stressed, as is the importance of keeping some of the “old-time” instruments in one's instrument cabinet.
Cochlear Implantation for Auditory Rehabilitation in Camurati-Engelmann Disease
Authors: Friedland David R. , Rhee John S. , Wackym Phillip A. , Finn Mary S.
Published: October 2014

Camurati-Engelmann disease (progressive hereditary diaphyseal dysplasia) is a rare sclerotic bone disease involving the diaphyses of the long bones, skull base, and clavicles. Progressive sclerosis of cranial nerve foramina has been implicated in cranial nerve deficits, including facial nerve palsy, vestibular disturbances, and hearing loss. Two patients with Camurati-Engelmann disease and concomitant sensorineural hearing loss are presented. Both patients were evaluated for cochlear implantation. One patient was successfully implanted after preoperative imaging revealed no involvement of the internal auditory canals. The porous nature of the affected bone, however, necessitated the inactivation of 1 electrode to prevent facial nerve stimulation. A second patient was rejected as a potential implant recipient due, in part, to narrow internal auditory canals and rapidly progressive disease. The otologic manifestations of Camurati-Engelmann disease are reviewed, and issues related to cochlear implantation in this rare disease are discussed.
Botulinum Toxin Injections for Essential Voice Tremor
Authors: Hertegård Stellan , Granqvist Svante , Lindestad Per-Åke
Published: October 2014

Fifteen patients, 13 women and 2 men, with a mean age of 72.7 years (56 to 86 years) and a clinical diagnosis of essential voice tremor, were treated with botulinum injections to the thyroarytenoid muscles, and in some cases, to the cricothyroid or thyrohyoid muscles. Evaluations were based on subjective judgments by the patients, and on perceptual and acoustic analysis of voice recordings. Subjective evaluations indicated that the treatment had a beneficial effect in 67% of the patients. Perceptual evaluations showed a significant decrease in voice tremor during connected speech (p < .05). Acoustic analysis showed a nearly significant decrease in the fundamental frequency variations (p = .06) and a significant decrease in fundamental frequency during sustained vowel phonation (p < .01). The results of perceptual evaluation coincided most closely with the subjective judgments. It was concluded that the treatment was successful in 50% to 65% of the patients, depending on the method of evaluation.
Myosin Heavy Chain Expression in Human Laryngeal Muscle Fibers
Authors: Périé Sophie , Agbulut Onnik , Guily Jean Lacau St , Butler-Browne Gillian Sandra
Published: October 2014

Since the intrinsic laryngeal muscles in humans are involved in specialized functions, one may suppose that this would be associated with the expression of specific myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms, as has been reported for the rat, dog, and rabbit. In order to determine which MHCs are expressed in the human laryngeal muscles, biochemical analysis using sodium dodecyl sulfate—polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was performed. Thyroarytenoid and posterior cricoarytenoid muscles were obtained from a 7-month-old infant and 4 adults. In the adult human laryngeal muscles, 3 bands were resolved identical to those previously described in the human limb muscles (I, IIA, and IIB MHCs). In contrast, muscles from the infant also expressed fetal MHC and a novel MHC not observed in other human skeletal muscles. This novel band migrated at the same level as the laryngeal MHC previously described in the rat. Since these 2 isoforms disappear in the adult, the persistence in the infant could be correlated with the immature development of laryngeal functions and, in particular, phonation.
Hyalinizing Trabecular Adenoma of the Thyroid Diagnosed by Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy
Authors: Boccato Paolo , Mannarà Giacinto M. , Rinaldo Alessandra , Rosa Filippo La , Ferlito Alfio
Published: October 2014

Two cases of hyalinizing trabecular adenoma of the thyroid are presented. The diagnosis was established on initial assessment by fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Histologic evaluation of the surgical specimens confirmed the diagnosis of hyalinizing trabecular adenoma.
Effect of Pentoxifylline on the Healing of Guinea Pig Tympanic Membrane
Authors: Tan Lim Alan A. , Washington Antoine P. , Greinwald John H. , Lassen Lorenz F. , Holtel Michael R.
Published: October 2014

Although most tympanic membrane perforations heal spontaneously, persistent perforations frequently require treatment by otolaryngologists. Initial management strategies include keeping the ear dry, ensuring aural hygiene, and using topical antibiotics. For persistent perforations, paper patching or myringoplasty may be required. Recently, agents such as hyaluronic acid and epidermal growth factor have been used to promote tympanic membrane healing. Similarly, pentoxifylline, a pharmaceutical agent with hemorrheological and antithrombotic properties, has been shown to increase perfusion and accelerate wound healing. This double-blinded prospective study attempts to examine the effect of pentoxifylline on tympanic membrane healing of 50 guinea pigs subjected to myringotomy. Serial examinations and histopathologic sectioning of the tympanic membranes revealed no significant difference in rate of healing or quality of repair between the pentoxifylline and control groups.