bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lutein alleviates arsenic-induced reproductive toxicity in male mice via Nrf2 signaling
Authors: Li SG , Xu SZ , Niu Q , Ding YS , Pang LJ , Ma RL , Jing MX , Wang K , Ma XM , Feng GL , Liu JM , Zhang XF , Xiang HL , Li F
Published: July 2015

This study aims to investigate the mechanisms involved in the action of lutein (LU) alleviating arsenic-induced reproductive toxicity using mice model. Forty male Kunming mice were received following treatments by gavage: normal saline solution (control), arsenic trioxide (ATO; 5 mg/kg/day), LU (40 mg/kg/day), and ATO + LU (5 mg/kg/day + 40 mg/kg/day). At the end, the mice were killed by cervical dislocation and weighed. Pathological examination was done on the testis. The biomedical parameters including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), total antioxidative capability, malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and reproductive indexes were analyzed. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of Nrf2, heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), glutathione S-transferase (GST), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate dehydrogenase, quinone 1 (NQO1) in testis were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. We found that there was a decrease in sperm count; testis somatic index; the activities of SOD, GSH, total antioxidative capacity ( p < 0.01, respectively) in ATO-treated mice, while there was an increase in the levels of sperm abnormalities, MDA, and 8-OHdG than control ( p < 0.01, respectively). The groups treated with ATO + LU showed recovery of the measured parameters between those of ATO or saline-treated group. The antagonized interaction between ATO and LU was statistically significant ( p < 0.01). Mice treated with ATO + LU also showed greater mRNA expression of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, and GST than ATO or saline-treated groups. These findings suggest that LU alleviates reproductive toxicity induced by arsenic in male mice via Nrf2 signaling, which implicates a possible mechanism of LU in preventing the reproductive injury, and elucidates that consuming the rich plant sources of LU will alleviate the reproductive toxicity induced by chemicals.
A theory of mobile library service delivery
Authors: Saravani Sarah-Jane , Haddow Gaby
Published: July 2015

Research indicates there is widespread acceptance that nomadicity of library users is a phenomenon that will continue to increase; however, mobile learning is a resource that relatively few academic libraries appear to be taking advantage of. This paper presents a model developed during an investigation using a grounded theory approach into factors that may contribute to the delivery of library services to mobile technologies. A sample of 42 professionally qualified library staff from the Australasian vocational education and training (VET) sector was investigated to determine how confident and capable library staff believed they were to respond to technology advancement challenges and the training and support required for that response. The resulting theoretical model explains the impact of mobile technologies on library services and highlights the complex factors contributing to mobile technology acceptance at both an organisational and individual level. The presence of a series of catalysing impacts forms a central core and their management can enable an organisation to move from a position of uncertainty to one where the consequences of mobile technologies have been normalised.
Investigating the job mobility of migrant workers in China
Authors: Tian Ming , Xu Lei
Published: July 2015

This research investigated the job mobility of migrant workers based on a survey of migrant workers in six cities in eastern China. The high degree of job mobility noted among migrant workers was found to be associated with the use of “trial and error” method in their search for better jobs. Differences in the duration of migrants’ stay in the urban labor market and social integration in the destinations resulted in their varying capacity to obtain and analyze labor market information, which in turn, accounted for job changes. In view of the employers’ interest in maintaining low wages, the legitimate rights and interests of migrant workers cannot be guaranteed under the current industrial, institutional, and social contexts. Under these circumstances, the job mobility of migrant workers reflects their aspirations to find better incomes and working conditions.
Modelling a response as a function of high-frequency count data: The association between physical activity and fat mass
Authors: Augustin Nicole H , Mattocks Calum , Faraway Julian J , Greven Sonja , Ness Andy R
Published: July 2015

Accelerometers are widely used in health sciences, ecology and other application areas. They quantify the intensity of physical activity as counts per epoch over a given period of time. Currently, health scientists use very lossy summaries of the accelerometer time series, some of which are based on coarse discretisation of activity levels, and make certain implicit assumptions, including linear or constant effects of physical activity. We propose the histogram as a functional summary for achieving a near lossless dimension reduction, comparability between individual time series and easy interpretability. Using the histogram as a functional summary avoids registration of accelerometer counts in time. In our novel method, a scalar response is regressed on additive multi-dimensional functional predictors, including the histogram of the high-frequency counts, and additive non-linear predictors for other continuous covariates. The method improves on the current state-of-the art, as it can deal with high-frequency time series of different lengths and missing values and yields a flexible way to model the physical activity effect with fewer assumptions. It also allows the commonly made modelling assumptions to be tested. We investigate the relationship between the response fat mass and physical activity measured by accelerometer, in data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. Our method allows testing of whether the effect of physical activity varies over its intensity by gender, by time of day or by day of the week. We show that meaningful interpretation requires careful treatment of identifiability constraints in the light of the sum-to-one property of a histogram. We find that the (not necessarily causal) effect of physical activity on kg fat mass is not linear and not constant over the activity intensity.
Welfare or politics? The identity of Italian mutual aid societies as revealed by a latent class cluster analysis of their annual reports
Authors: Di Cimbrini Tiziana
Published: July 2015

This article proposes a statistical analysis of the Italian mutual aid societies’ annual report data from 1862, 1873 and 1904, and tests the hypothesis, supported by the mainstream literature, that mutual financial support for the poor is just a facade for organizing the political activity of the working classes. Factor analysis allows the data, signaling these two commitments, to be kept separate. Their time evolution, as outlined by an inter-temporal comparison of a latent class cluster analysis, reveals that political commitment, even if generally prevalent, oscillates as a function of environmental conditions, whereas the mutual financial support retains a solid foundation, regardless. The study demonstrates the potential of unconventional annual report data analysis to reveal the deepest nature of the organizations and contributes to exploring the links between political activism and accounting data in not-for-profit organizations.
Ties that bind: Family relationships and social trust
Authors: Herreros Francisco
Published: July 2015

There have been two main arguments concerning the effects of family relationships on social trust. The first claims that the intensity of the family relationship reduces the capacity of the family members to interact in the outside world, where social uncertainty prevails. The second considers that trust inside the family spills over into trust in strangers. There is a corollary to the first argument: intense family relationships, by reducing social trust, affect community development negatively. In this article, I show, first, that it is the intensity of family relationships, and not trust in the family, that negatively affects social trust, and, second, that there is an interaction effect between trust in the family and state efficacy on social trust. While high trust in the family and low trust in strangers can go together, the relationship is spurious. It is low state efficacy that causes low trust in strangers and, to a lesser extent, high in-family trust. These arguments are tested with a sample of 44 countries from the 2005 wave of World Value Surveys.
A Review of the Research on Pinkston’s Single-Parent Group Training Program
Authors: Briggs Harold E. , Cox Wendell H. , Sharkey Caroline N. , Briggs Adam C. , Black Michelle
Published: July 2015

Purpose:

The purpose of this review is to chronicle the extent to which the Pinkston and colleagues model is utilized in single-parent training group (SPG) interventions in the home environment for children aged 5 to 12 or preadolescent school-aged children.

Methods:

Several databases were searched electronically and independent full reviews were conducted with N = 7 studies that met the inclusion criteria.

Results:

We identified the outcome measures of relevant studies of SPG interventions across five content themes: (1) rate of positive parent attention, (2) change in rate of negative parent attention, (3) change in rate of child compliance, (4) change in rate of child chore completion, and (5) change in nature of parent–child dyad. A review of the research provided empirical evidence that SPG interventions are effective in increasing positive parent–child social interactions, child compliance, and differential attention that correlates to the modification of problematic and oppositional child behaviors.

Conclusions:

The studies herein provide guidance and suggestions for future interventions utilizing SPG approaches.
Noninferiority of Inhaled Epoprostenol to Inhaled Nitric Oxide for the Treatment of ARDS
Authors: Ammar Mahmoud A. , Bauer Seth R. , Bass Stephanie N. , Sasidhar Madhu , Mullin Rory , Lam Simon W.
Published: July 2015

Background: Inhaled nitric oxide and inhaled epoprostenol have been evaluated for the management of hypoxemia in acute respiratory distress syndrome, with clinical trials demonstrating comparable improvements in oxygenation. However, these trials have several limitations, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions regarding clinical outcomes. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the noninferiority and safety of inhaled epoprostenol compared with inhaled nitric oxide in mechanically ventilated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients with a primary outcome of ventilator-free days from day 1 to day 28. Methods: This was a retrospective, noninterventional, propensity-matched, noninferiority cohort study. Propensity score for receipt of inhaled nitric oxide was developed and patients were matched accordingly using a prespecified algorithm. Secondary objectives included evaluating day 28 intensive care unit–free days, changes in PaO2/FiO2 ratio after inhalation therapy initiation, and hospital mortality. Safety endpoints assessed included hypotension, methemoglobinemia, renal dysfunction, rebound hypoxemia, significant bleeding, and thrombocytopenia. Results: Ninety-four patients were included, with 47 patients in each group. Patients were well-matched with similar baseline characteristics, except patients in inhaled nitric oxide group had lower PaO2/FiO2 ratio. Management of ARDS was similar between groups. Mean difference in ventilator-free days between inhaled epoprostenol and inhaled nitric oxide was 2.16 days (95% confidence interval = −0.61 to 4.9), with lower limit of 95% confidence interval greater than the prespecified margin, hence satisfying noninferiority. There were no differences in any secondary or safety outcomes. Conclusions: Inhaled epoprostenol was noninferior to inhaled nitric oxide with regard to ventilator-free days from day 1 to day 28 in ARDS patients.
Outcome of Distal First Metatarsal Osteotomy Shortening in Hallux Rigidus Grades II and III
Authors: Ceccarini Paolo , Ceccarini Alfredo , Rinonapoli Giuseppe , Caraffa Auro
Published: July 2015

Background:

Existing techniques for operative treatment of hallux rigidus commonly combine skeletal and soft tissue interventions to obtain long-lasting relief of pain. To date, operative treatments include implant arthroplasty, cheilectomy, various osteotomies, nonimplant arthroplasty, and arthrodesis. We assessed a technique that respects the anatomy and joint function and used a shortening osteotomy of the head of the first metatarsal.

Methods:

We evaluated a series of 40 consecutive patients affected by grade II and III hallux rigidus, aged 32 to 79 years, who had undergone surgery from January 2010 to January 2014. All patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically, preoperatively and postoperatively, and underwent a final follow-up at a mean of 35.4 (range = 12-51) months. For the clinical evaluation, the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) clinical rating scale for the hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal joints was used.

Results:

A patient survey revealed excellent and good overall satisfaction in 90% of the sample. Postoperative results included a significant increase ( P < .001) in the median global AOFAS score, from 39 (range = 25-60) to 84 (range = 78-94).

Conclusions:

The technique of a shortening osteotomy of the first metatarsal head appeared to be useful for the correction of stiffness, pain relief, and an improvement in range of motion. Other advantages were that it preserved the integrity of the metatarsophalangeal joint and led to a rapid functional recovery.

Level of evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Modeling General and Specific Abilities
Authors: McFarland Dennis J.
Published: July 2015

The present study examined issues related to structural modeling of abilities by the use of simulated data as well as analysis of the standardization data from the Woodcock–Johnson-III. In both cases, results were evaluated with cross-validation. Simulation results showed that cross-validation with an independent data set was more successful in identifying the model that was used to generate test scores than were several fit indices. Analysis of the Woodcock–Johnson-III standardization data with cross-validation showed that bifactor models provided better fit than hierarchical or correlated factor models. This was true considering both fit indices and cross-validation. General and specific factors shared a considerable amount of variance as evaluated by using the bifactor models to partition variance. The results of the present study suggest that there is a certain degree of ambiguity in determining the exact amount of covariance in test performance accounted for by general and specific factors. This calls in to question the practice of adjusting or controlling for general abilities when evaluating measures of specific abilities. Evidence for the validity of a construct should not be limited to factor analysis of tests purported to measure that construct.
Evaluation of Evidence for Acne Remission With Oral Isotretinoin Cumulative Dosing of 120-150 mg/kg
Authors: Tan Jerry , Knezevic Sanja , Boyal Sanwarjit , Waterman Brad , Janik Toni
Published: July 2015

Background:

Oral isotretinoin (ISO) is the standard of care for severe inflammatory acne and a threshold dose of 120-150 mg/kg is widely regarded as increasing remission potential.

Objective:

Our objective was to evaluate the evidence underlying ISO dosing of 120-150 mg/kg in acne remission.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was performed using keywords “acne,” “isotretinoin,” “efficacy,” “dosing,” “relapse,” and “remission.”

Results:

Definitions for acne clearance, relapse/remission, and treatment endpoint vary widely across studies. Only 2 studies explicitly evaluated the cumulative dose of 120-150 mg/kg for induction of acne remission—both low grade.

Conclusion:

The threshold dose of 120-150 mg/kg for oral ISO is based on past parameters of treatment duration and prior studies used vague or inconsistent definitions of clearance and remission. Optimal cumulative doses of ISO required to induce remission appears to vary with severity.
Study of acoustic performance of textured journal bearing
Authors: Meng Fanming , Wei Zhang , Minggang Du , Gao Guixiang
Published: July 2015

The acoustic performance of a textured journal bearing is studied based on computation fluid dynamic (CFD) theory and acoustic equation involved. First, a micro-grooved journal bearing is modeled through commercial software ANSYS. Then, the acoustic power levels for the journal bearing at different depths, widths, and positions of the dimples are solved through the CFD method. The numerical results show that the existence of dimples can lower the acoustic power level of the bearing. Moreover, this reduction depends on the dimple sizes and position. The dimples showing good tribological behaviors can yield severe noise.
Comparative studies on double-layered protuberant foil bearing and Hydresil foil bearing
Authors: Hou Yu , Ma Bin , Chen Shuangtao , Lai Tianwei , Zhou Quan
Published: July 2015

In this paper, the hydrodynamic performance of a new double-layered protuberant gas foil journal bearing (DPGFB) was experimentally studied in a high-speed turbo-expander and compared with the conventional Hydresil foil journal bearing (HGFB). The material properties of supporting foils are important for the bearing performance such as load capacity and frictional damping. In both DPGFBs and HGFBs, two types of materials, stainless steel (0Cr18Ni9) and beryllium bronze (QBe1.7), have been used as supporting foil materials, and their effects on the bearing performance were discussed. A stable operation of turbo-expander with rotational speed up to 70,000 rpm was achieved in the tests of both of two types of bearings. Due to the larger stiffness of the foil layer, the DPGFBs had larger lift-off speed and larger gas film friction torque than HGFBs at high speed when the same foil material was used. The comparison showed that the bearings using 0Cr18Ni9 had a larger life-off friction torque. The synchronous vibration amplitudes of the rotors during the high speed operation and the shut-down process were smaller for DPGFBs than HGFBs, which indicated that the DPGFBs had a better damping performance than HGFBs.
Tele-ECG and 24-hour physician support over telephone for rural doctors can help early treatment of acute myocardial infarction in rural areas
Authors: Vivek Chauhan , Vikrant Kanwar
Published: July 2015

We observed that many patients of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) were reaching our hospital out of the 12 hour window period for thrombolysis. This led to poor patient outcomes. There were multiple reasons for the delay, prominent among them was lack of diagnostic facilities in the rural health care centers. We therefore planned a Tele-Electrocardiography (Tele-ECG) based pilot project in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh in India, which was funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research. The intention was to reduce the pre-hospital delay in AMI by enabling the rural doctors of Kangra using Tele-ECG facility and a 24-hour physician support to manage patients of AMI. We did a baseline knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) assessment study of the doctors in our intervention centers to understand their needs. The data obtained through the KAP study was an eye opener for us and justifies the need for a Tele-ECG facility for rural doctors in India.
Speech recognition acceptance by physicians: A temporal replication of a survey of expectations and experiences
Authors: Lyons Joseph P , Sanders Salvatore A , Fredrick Cesene Daniel , Palmer Christopher , Mihalik Valerie L , Weigel Tracy
Published: July 2015

A replication survey of physicians’ expectations and experience with speech recognition technology was conducted before and after its implementation. The expectations survey was administered to emergency medicine physicians prior to training with the speech recognition system. The experience survey consisting of similar items was administered after physicians gained speech recognition technology experience. In this study, 82 percent of the physicians were initially optimistic that the use of speech recognition technology with the electronic medical record was a good idea. After using the technology for 6 months, 87 percent of the physicians agreed that speech recognition technology was a good idea. In addition, 72 percent of the physicians in this study had an expectation that the use of speech recognition technology would save time. After use in the clinical environment, 51 percent of the participants reported time savings. The increased acceptance of speech recognition technology by physicians in this study was attributed to improvements in the technology and the electronic medical record.
Influence of homogenization treatment on the degradation behavior of Zn–3 Mg alloy in simulated body fluid solution
Authors: Dambatta Murtala S , Kurniawan Denni , Sudin Izman , Yahaya Bashir , Hermawan Hendra
Published: July 2015

This paper reports a degradation study of Zn–(3 wt%) Mg alloy proposed for biodegradable medical implants. The alloy was cast from high-purity raw materials and homogenized at 370 ℃ for 15 h under vacuum and water quenched. The effect of homogenization on microstructure and degradation behavior in simulated body fluid was investigated. Results showed that homogenization transformed the star-like dendritic Zn-rich shape into a network of precipitate phase along eutectic colony and dispersed Mg2Zn11 phase. The homogenized alloy showed higher degradation resistance compared to the as-cast alloy, pure Zn, and pure Mg samples. The relationship between microstructure and degradation behavior discussed further in this paper.
Development and characterization of thermoset green composites reinforced by unidirectional abaca fibers
Authors: Takagi Hitoshi , Nakagaito Antonio Norio , Itotani Koujiro , Fukubayashi Yoshiro
Published: July 2015

This paper reports the development of unidirectional natural fiber-reinforced thermoset composites and their mechanical properties. A thermoset epoxy resin was used as the matrix polymer, with abaca fiber as the reinforcing phase. The tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the proposed thermoset composites respectively reached maxima of 520 MPa and 17 GPa at the fiber volume fraction of 79%. Such high strength and high modulus apparently derived from good permeability of resin into abaca fiber stocks and also from the acceptable stress transfer between the fiber and matrix. The experimental tensile strength was compared with the theoretical prediction derived from the Curtin model in which the stochastic fiber fracture is considered. It is apparent that the tensile strength of the abaca fiber-reinforced thermoset composites was slightly lower than that estimated using the Curtin model, and that this deviation derives partially from insufficient stress transfer between the fiber and matrix.
Investigations of mechanical properties of SiO2 coatings deposited by sol-gel method on cpTi and Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy
Authors: Walke W , Paszenda Z , Karasiński P , Marciniak J , Basiaga M
Published: July 2015

One of the methods used to improve the hemocompatibility of titanium-based biomaterials is to apply sol-gel method to form thin oxide films. Such films have increased hemocompatibility, which greatly reduces the risk of complications related to intravascular coagulation. Another important issue related to the generation of surface films is providing the proper set of mechanical properties. For this reason, mechanical properties of SiO2 films deposited on the surfaces of titanium Grade4 and Ti-6Al-7Nb titanium alloy test pieces were studied. In order to assess the mechanical properties of films generated using the sol-gel method, hardness and adhesion of these layers to the metal substrate were tested. First, the Oliver Pharr method was used to measure the instrumental hardness. Subsequently, scratch tests were performed to study film adhesion to the surface. Both tests, hardness and scratch strength, were performed using an open platform equipped with CSM Microcombi Tester. Based on the obtained data, it was found that thickness of the studied surface films varied depending on the process parameters of their formation, and their mechanical properties changed accordingly. The obtained results have direct impact on the optimisation of SiO2 layer generation using the sol-gel method on surfaces of titanium-based implants used for contact with blood, and consequently on improvement of their functional properties.
At the borders of political theory: Carens and the ethics of immigration
Authors: Cole Phil
Published: July 2015

Carens’ book covers a wide range of issues concerning the ethics of immigration, and although he is best known as a theorist of open borders that argument takes up a relatively small part of the book, and is indeed a small part of his writing on immigration. In this essay, I examine the relationship the radical arguments for open borders, and the more contextual arguments about specific issues such as birthright citizenship, naturalisation and temporary workers which fall short of that radical position. This relationship is complex, and reveals that, although this is a highly readable and accessible book, it rests upon a highly complex method of doing political theory. I critically examine that method and look at the problems it raises for the relationship with political theory and activism. I ask what role the radical arguments for open borders are supposed to play in the public sphere, and, in the end, what role political theorists are supposed to play in that sphere.
Design and analysis of diaphragms in dynamic microphones
Authors: Huang Zi-Gui , Shiu Shiang-Jiun
Published: July 2015

Most contemporary high-end microphones are dynamic microphones, adopting the most basic electromagnetic transduction principles. This study investigated the diaphragm structures of dynamic microphones. The diaphragms were composed of polyimide material, and the boundary settings required for actual operation were provided using finite element model analysis software. The characteristic frequencies caused by grooving variations on the three-dimensional diaphragm were analyzed for the various groove shapes and number. The groove angles and width variations were examined based on the optimal groove shape selected in the aforementioned analysis, and the effects of these shapes were determined based on the analytical results. Acoustic waves cause thin films to vibrate, forming the working principle behind dynamic microphones. The thin film drives a coil to vibrate in a magnetic field and cuts the line of magnetic force, subsequently producing a voltage on both ends of the coil. This audio-frequency-inducted voltage represents an acoustic wave message. The finite element model analysis software was used to conduct electromagnetic induction simulations; the sound source was fed to the diaphragm to drive the coil. The coil vibrations caused the line of magnetic force to be cut, and the final voltages produced were examined and compared.
Dosing Accuracy of Two Disposable Insulin Pens According to New ISO 11608-1
Authors: Abdel-Tawab Mona , Schmitz Mario , Kamlot Stefan , Schubert-Zsilavecz Manfred
Published: July 2015

Objective:

The aim was to compare 2 disposable insulin pens, FlexTouch® (Novo Nordisk, insulin aspart) and SoloSTAR® (Sanofi, insulin glulisine), according to new ISO 11608-1:2012 requirements for dosing accuracy.

Methods:

Sixty pens of each type were tested at 1, 40, and 80 U doses. Following the new ISO requirements, each dose was delivered from the front, middle, and rear one-third of the pen. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t test.

Results:

Both pens delivered all doses within ISO limits. The difference between the average measured dose and the target dose was significantly smaller for SoloSTAR than FlexTouch at 40 U ( P = .009) and 80 U ( P = .008), but not at 1 U ( P = .417).

Conclusion:

Both insulin pens fulfilled the dosing accuracy requirements defined by ISO 11608-1:2012 at all 3 dosage levels.
Finding a Middle Ground
Authors: Rippin Allyn S. , Zimring Craig , Samuels Owen , Denham Megan E.
Published: July 2015

Objective:

This comparative study of two adult neuro critical care units examined the impact of patient- and family-centered design on nurse–family interactions in a unit designed to increase family involvement.

Background:

A growing evidence base suggests that the built environment can facilitate the delivery of patient- and family-centered care (PFCC). However, few studies examine how the PFCC model impacts the delivery of care, specifically the role of design in nurse–family interactions in the adult intensive care unit (ICU) from the perspective of the bedside nurse.

Methods:

Two neuro ICUs with the same patient population and staff, but with different layouts, were compared. Structured observations were conducted to assess changes in the frequency, location, and content of interactions between the two units. Discussions with staff provided additional insights into nurse attitudes, perceptions, and experiences caring for families.

Results:

Nurses reported challenges balancing the needs of many stakeholders in a complex clinical environment, regardless of unit layout. However, differences in communication patterns between the clinician- and family-centered units were observed. More interactions were observed in nurse workstations in the PFCC unit, with most initiated by family. While the new unit was seen as more conducive to the delivery of PFCC, some nurses reported a loss of workspace control.

Conclusions:

Patient- and family-centered design created new spatial and temporal opportunities for nurse–family interactions in the adult ICU, thus supporting PFCC goals. However, greater exposure to unplanned family encounters may increase nurse stress without adequate spatial and organizational support.
Five Antiretroviral Drug Class–Resistant HIV-1 in a Treatment-Naïve Patient Successfully Suppressed with Optimized Antiretroviral Drug Selection
Authors: Volpe Joseph M. , Ward Douglas J. , Napolitano Laura , Phung Pham , Toma Jonathan , Solberg Owen , Petropoulos Christos J. , Walworth Charles M.
Published: July 2015

Transmitted HIV-1 exhibiting reduced susceptibility to protease and reverse transcriptase inhibitors is well documented but limited for integrase inhibitors and enfuvirtide. We describe here a case of transmitted 5 drug class–resistance in an antiretroviral (ARV)-naïve patient who was successfully treated based on the optimized selection of an active ARV drug regimen. The value of baseline resistance testing to determine an optimal ARV treatment regimen is highlighted in this case report.
Alternative signaling network activation through different insulin receptor family members caused by pro-mitogenic antidiabetic insulin analogues in human mammary epithelial cells
Authors: ter Braak Bas , Wink Steven , Koedoot Esmee , Pont Chantal , Siezen Christine , van der Laan Jan Willem , van de Water Bob
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Insulin analogues are designed to have improved pharmacokinetic parameters compared to regular human insulin. This provides a sustained control of blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. All novel insulin analogues are tested for their mitogenic side effects, however these assays do not take into account the molecular mode of action of different insulin analogues. Insulin analogues can bind the insulin receptor and the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor with different affinities and consequently will activate different downstream signaling pathways.

Methods

Here we used a panel of MCF7 human breast cancer cell lines that selectively express either one of the isoforms of the INSR or the IGF1R. We applied a transcriptomics approach to assess the differential transcriptional programs activated in these cells by either insulin, IGF1 or X10 treatment.

Results

Based on the differentially expressed genes between insulin versus IGF1 and X10 treatment, we retrieved a mitogenic classifier gene set. Validation by RT-qPCR confirmed the robustness of this gene set. The translational potential of these mitogenic classifier genes was examined in primary human mammary cells and in mammary gland tissue of mice in an in vivo model. The predictive power of the classifier genes was evaluated by testing all commercial insulin analogues in the in vitro model and defined X10 and glargine as the most potent mitogenic insulin analogues.

Conclusions

We propose that these mitogenic classifier genes can be used to test the mitogenic potential of novel insulin analogues as well as other alternative molecules with an anticipated affinity for the IGF1R.
Association of HLA-DRB1 amino acid residues with giant cell arteritis: genetic association study, meta-analysis and geo-epidemiological investigation
Authors: Mackie Sarah Louise , Taylor John C. , Haroon-Rashid Lubna , Martin Stephen , Dasgupta Bhaskar , Gough Andrew , Green Michael , Hordon Lesley , Jarrett Stephen , Pease Colin T. , Barrett Jennifer H. , Watts Richard , Morgan Ann W. ,   UK GCA Consortium,   UKRAG Consortium
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an autoimmune disease commonest in Northern Europe and Scandinavia. Previous studies report various associations with HLA-DRB1*04 and HLA-DRB1*01; HLA-DRB1 alleles show a gradient in population prevalence within Europe. Our aims were (1) to determine which amino acid residues within HLA-DRB1 best explained HLA-DRB1 allele susceptibility and protective effects in GCA, seen in UK data combined in meta-analysis with previously published data, and (2) to determine whether the incidence of GCA in different countries is associated with the population prevalence of the HLA-DRB1 alleles that we identified in our meta-analysis.

Methods

GCA patients from the UK GCA Consortium were genotyped by using single-strand oligonucleotide polymerization, allele-specific polymerase chain reaction, and direct sequencing. Meta-analysis was used to compare and combine our results with published data, and public databases were used to identify amino acid residues that may explain observed susceptibility/protective effects. Finally, we determined the relationship of HLA-DRB1*04 population carrier frequency and latitude to GCA incidence reported in different countries.

Results

In our UK data (225 cases and 1378 controls), HLA-DRB1*04 carriage was associated with GCA susceptibility (odds ratio (OR) = 2.69, P = 1.5×10−11), but HLA-DRB1*01 was protective (adjusted OR = 0.55, P = 0.0046). In meta-analysis combined with 14 published studies (an additional 691 cases and 4038 controls), protective effects were seen from HLA-DR2, which comprises HLA-DRB1*15 and HLA-DRB1*16 (OR = 0.65, P = 8.2×10−6) and possibly from HLA-DRB1*01 (OR = 0.73, P = 0.037). GCA incidence (n = 17 countries) was associated with population HLA-DRB1*04 allele frequency (P = 0.008; adjusted R2 = 0.51 on univariable analysis, adjusted R2 = 0.62 after also including latitude); latitude also made an independent contribution.

Conclusions

We confirm that HLA-DRB1*04 is a GCA susceptibility allele. The susceptibility data are best explained by amino acid risk residues V, H, and H at positions 11, 13, and 33, contrary to previous suggestions of amino acids in the second hypervariable region. Worldwide, GCA incidence was independently associated both with population frequency of HLA-DRB1*04 and with latitude itself. We conclude that variation in population HLA-DRB1*04 frequency may partly explain variations in GCA incidence and that HLA-DRB1*04 may warrant investigation as a potential prognostic or predictive biomarker.
Molecular characterization of systemic sclerosis esophageal pathology identifies inflammatory and proliferative signatures
Authors: Taroni Jaclyn N. , Martyanov Viktor , Huang Chiang-Ching , Mahoney J. Matthew , Hirano Ikuo , Shetuni Brandon , Yang Guang-Yu , Brenner Darren , Jung Barbara , Wood Tammara A. , Bhattacharyya Swati , Almagor Orit , Lee Jungwha , Sirajuddin Arlene , Varga John , Chang Rowland W. , Whitfield Michael L. , Hinchcliff Monique
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Esophageal involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) is common, but tissue-specific pathological mechanisms are poorly understood. There are no animal scleroderma esophagus models and esophageal smooth muscle cells dedifferentiate in culture prohibiting in vitro studies. Esophageal fibrosis is thought to disrupt smooth muscle function and lead to esophageal dilatation, but autopsy studies demonstrate esophageal smooth muscle atrophy and the absence of fibrosis in the majority of SSc cases. Herein, we perform a detailed characterization of SSc esophageal histopathology and molecular signatures at the level of gene expression.

Methods

Esophageal biopsies were prospectively obtained during esophagogastroduodenoscopy in 16 consecutive SSc patients and 7 subjects without SSc. Upper and lower esophageal biopsies were evaluated for histopathology and gene expression.

Results

Individual patient’s upper and lower esophageal biopsies showed nearly identical patterns of gene expression. Similar to skin, inflammatory and proliferative gene expression signatures were identified suggesting that molecular subsets are a universal feature of SSc end-target organ pathology. The inflammatory signature was present in biopsies without high numbers of infiltrating lymphocytes. Molecular classification of esophageal biopsies was independent of SSc skin subtype, serum autoantibodies and esophagitis.

Conclusions

Proliferative and inflammatory molecular gene expression subsets in tissues from patients with SSc may be a conserved, reproducible component of SSc pathogenesis. The inflammatory signature is observed in biopsies that lack large inflammatory infiltrates suggesting that immune activation is a major driver of SSc esophageal pathogenesis.
Removal of inorganic mercury from aquatic environments by multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Yaghmaeian Kamyar , Khosravi Mashizi Reza , Nasseri Simin , Mahvi Amir Hossein , Alimohammadi Mahmood , Nazmara Shahrokh
Published: July 2015

Background

Mercury is considered as a toxic heavy metal in aquatic environments due to accumulation in bodies of living organisms. Exposure to mercury may lead to different toxic effects in humans including damages to kidneys and nervous system.

Materials and methods

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were selected as sorbent to remove mercury from aqueous solution using batch technique. ICP instrument was used to determine the amount of mercury in solution. Moreover, pH, contact time and initial concentration of mercury were studied to determine the influence of these parameters on the adsorption conditions.

Results

Results indicate that the adsorption strongly depended on pH and the best pH for adsorption is about 7. The rate of adsorption process initially was rapid but it was gradually reduced with increasing of contact time and reached the equilibrium after 120 min. In addition, more than 85 % of initial concentration of 0.1 mg/l was removed at 0.5 g/l concentration of sorbent and contact time of 120 min. Meanwhile, the adsorption process followed the pseudo second-order model and the adsorption isotherms could be described by both the Freundlich and the Langmuir models.

Conclusion

This study showed that MWCNTs can effectively remove inorganic mercury from aqueous solutions as adsorbent.
Notch 1 and Notch 2 synergistically regulate the differentiation and function of invariant NKT cells
Authors: Oh Sae Jin , Ahn Sehee , Jin Young-Hee , Ishifune Chieko , Kim Ji Hyung , Yasutomo Koji , Chung Doo Hyun
Published: July 2015

Invariant natural killer T cells are a distinct subset of T cells that exert Janus-like functions. Moreover, Notch signaling is known to have critical roles in the development and functions of T cells. However, it is not known whether Notch signaling contributes to the development or functions of invariant natural killer T cells. Here, we found that CD4-specific gene ablation of Notch 1 and Notch 2 (N1N2−/−) increased the number of invariant natural killer T cells in the thymus but decreased them in the liver. N1N2−/− mice showed impaired thymic maturation of invariant natural killer T cells from the NK1.1−CD44+ to the NK1.1+CD44+ stage, resulting in accumulation of NK1.1−CD44+ invariant natural killer T cells in the thymus. Upon activation, hepatic invariant natural killer T cells from N1N2−/− mice produced lower cytokine levels and increased apoptosis versus wild-type invariant natural killer T cells. Furthermore, Notch 1/Notch 2-deficient, but not wild type, invariant natural killer T cells failed to promote antibody-induced arthritis in CD1d−/− mice. Unlike N1N2−/− mice, RBP-jlox/lox CD4-Cre mice showed similar percentages and numbers of thymic invariant natural killer T cells to wild-type mice but had defects in their homeostasis, maturation, and cytokine production in the liver. Taken together, our data indicate distinct effects of Notch signaling on invariant natural killer T cells in the thymus and liver, which are at least partly independent of RBP-j in the thymus.
Equilibrium Pricing in Incomplete Markets Under Translation Invariant Preferences
Authors: Cheridito Patrick , Horst Ulrich , Kupper Michael , Pirvu Traian A.
Published: July 2015

We propose a general discrete-time framework for deriving equilibrium prices of financial securities. It allows for heterogeneous agents, unspanned random endowments, and convex trading constraints. We give a dual characterization of equilibria and provide general results on their existence and uniqueness. In the special case where all agents have preferences of the same type and in equilibrium, all random endowments are replicable by trading in the financial market, we show that a one-fund theorem holds and give an explicit expression for the equilibrium pricing kernel.
A diaphragmatic retroperitoneal cyst
Authors: Robertson FP , Tsironis D , Davidson BR
Published: July 2015

Diaphragmatic lesions are usually congenital bronchogenic cysts. A patient with a known diaphragmatic cyst presented with new onset right upper quadrant pain. Repeat imaging showed enlargement of the cyst, the CA19–9 cancer marker was raised at 312iu/ml (normal: <27iu/ml) and positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography showed focally increased uptake in the cystic wall. In view of symptoms and risk of neoplasia, the lesion was excised. Histology showed a benign epidermoid cyst. Features falsely suggesting neoplasia have been reported previously with benign splenic cysts but not with a benign diaphragmatic epidermoid cyst.
The oslo CoMet study: randomised controlled study of open and laparoscopic liver resection for colorectal metastases
Authors: Fretland AA , Røsok B , Dosani T , Waage A , Labori KJ , Mathisen O , Buanes T , Gladhaug I , Bjørnbeth BA , Flatmark K , Andersen MH , Sokolov A , Molness TE , Kristiansen R , Edwin B
Published: July 2015

The 2013 Alpine Liver and Pancreatic Surgery meeting was held in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy. The meeting was organised by the Association of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland. The following abstracts were selected for presentation at the meeting.
Safer mobile fluoroscopy in the trauma theatre: a survey of orthopaedic registrars and theatre staff
Authors: Hunter T , Jayasekera N , Roach R
Published: July 2015

The Ionising Radiation (Protection of Persons Undergoing Medical Examination or Treatment) Regulations 1988 (POPUMET) made it compulsory from June 1990 for all staff directing medical exposures to ionising radiation to receive formal tuition at a core knowledge course. This course described the hazards of ionising radiation and the safe use of x-ray equipment. It instructed on the nature of ionising radiation and its interaction with tissues, principles and means of dose reduction to patient and operator, the importance of using the patient’s existing radiological information and statutory responsibilities. The POPUMET course was discontinued following the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2000 (IR(ME)R). IR(ME)R training for healthcare professionals is available as a half-day theoretical course suitable for those designated as ‘referrer’ by their employers. Other locally run ionising radiation protection courses are tailored to the varied requirements of a spectrum of healthcare professionals.
Local guidelines at your fingertips
Authors: McConaghie Greg
Published: July 2015

The internet abounds with medical guidelines. However, if this information is not in keeping with your local guidelines, the usefulness of this information and its source is thrown into doubt. Maybe this is why there is a growing number of apps that offer in-depth and locally aligned information, which is sometimes straight from your hospital’s consensus meeting. This month, we review two apps that aim to make the life of a surgeon a little easier by putting local guidelines and hospital information at your fingertips.
Rowena: the trainee’s perspective on simulation
Authors: Javed S , Berhanu M
Published: July 2015

A time-saving and cost-effective way to practise basic neurosurgical techniques.
Seven days too long?
Authors: Gottlieb Grace
Published: July 2015

Seven-day care: a major move with complex considerations.
Treasures from the Collections
Authors: Sams Steffi
Published: July 2015

Observation sur un foetus humain trouvé dans la trompe gauche de la matrice by Alexis Littré
Slop and the weaning off life
Authors: Slop
Published: July 2015

With his Editor flying high in the sky, Slop’s thoughts turn to certain death.
Elicitation – a tool to improve secondary metabolites production in Melissa Officinalis L. Suspension cultures / Elicitácia ako nástroj na zlepšenie produkcie sekundárnych metabolitov v suspenzných kultúrach Melissa Officinalis L.
Authors: Urdová J. , Rexová M. , Mučaji P. , Balažová A.
Published: July 2015

Our recent study is focussed on the investigation of the influence of biotic (Botrytis cinerea, methyl jasmonate) and abiotic (cadmium and cobalt chloride) elicitors on Melissa officinalis L. (lemon balm) suspension cultures production properties. The plant material was treated with different concentrations of methyl jasmonate (10 and 100 μmol.l−1), with a phytopathogenic fungus hydrolyzate (Botrytis cinerea, 1 and 2 ml with glucose equivalent 24 μg.ml−1), cadmium and cobalt (II) chloride (both at concentrations 100 μmol.l−1 and 1 μmol.l−1). Elicited suspension cultures were harvested after 24, 48 and 72 h of elicitor treatment. The elicitation effect was evaluated based on hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives content expressed as rosmarinic acid in dose- and time-dependent manners. The Botrytis cinerea hydrolyzate exhibited the best effect on Melissa officinalis L. suspension cultures production properties among biotic elicitors (glucose equivalent 24 mg.ml−1, 1 ml, after 72 h of treatment). The hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives content increased in triplicate compared to non-elicited samples. Methyl jasmonate affected the suspension cultures production properties moderately at concentration 10 μmol.l−1. Chlorides salts of cobalt and cadmium stimulated phenolic compounds production effectively at concentrations 100 μmol.l−1. The presence of cobalt and cadmium ions in suspension cultures growth media increased the hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives content twofold and quadruple, respectively.