bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heparin Interferes with Tobramycin Serum Concentration Determinations by Emit
Authors: Matzke Gary R. , Piveral Kip , Halstenson Charles E. , Abraham Paul A.
Published: May 2016

Enzyme multiplied immunoassay (Emit) commonly is used to determine aminoglycoside concentrations. Its accuracy generally is comparable to that of radioimmunoassay (RIA). Poor reproducibility and questionable quantitation by the Emit assay have been reported when heparinized, severely lipemic, or icteric samples have been used. However, the significance of these interferences is documented poorly. We observed a ESRD patient in whom the underestimation by Emit of the tobramycin concentration in a plasma sample (heparin concentration of 41 U/ml) could have resulted in excessive drug administration and potential toxicity. Tobramycin therapy was initiated with a loading dose of 1.6 mg/kg and three tobramycin concentrations were obtained (2, 12, and 36 hours post-infusion) to define the patient's pharmacokinetic parameters. The first and third samples were collected in serum specimen tubes while the second sample was collected in a plasma tube. The tobramycin concentration in the plasma sample measured by Emit was 82 percent lower than the RIA value. Analyses of other samples by both procedures revealed no clinically significant differences. This case demonstrates that the presence of heparin may interfere with the Emit tobramycin assay in the clinical setting. The degree of reduction in tobramycin concentrations may be dramatic and potentially can alter a patients apparent tobramycin dosing requirements. Further investigation is warranted.
Development and Validation of an Instrument to Measure Physicians' Attitudes toward the Clinical Pharmacist's Role
Authors: Grussing Paul G. , Goff Debra A. , Kraus Donna M. , Mueller Catherine E.
Published: May 2016

A scale to measure physicians' attitudes toward clinical pharmacy was developed and validated. Based on physician-clinical pharmacist interactions, statements were written and edited into tentative subscales. A preliminary test resulted in a reduction in the number of items and subscales. The final field test, based on responses from 166 physicians, after factor analysis, yielded 23 items in 5 subscales, with a scale reliability of 0.94. As additional measures of validity, physicians' responses showed significant differences in attitudes between subscales and differences by specialty. Differences also were demonstrated by physician status and age. No differences were shown by amount of exposure to clinical pharmacists. Reliability and validity of the scale have been supported and additional research into the concurrent validity of the scale is suggested.
Constant Diazepam Infusion in the Treatment of Continuous Seizure Activity
Authors: Bell H. Eloise , Bertino Joseph S.
Published: May 2016

Status epilepticus is a medical emergency that requires rapid seizure control. Intravenous bolus diazepam has been used in the rapid reversal of status epilepticus; this agent usually is combined with parenteral phenobarbital or phenytoin for a more sustained suppression of seizure activity. In certain situations, these longer-acting agents are not effective in controlling the seizure disorder, necessitating alternative therapeutic measures. Continuous diazepam infusion has been used successfully to treat persistent seizure activity. Its use, however, is fraught with pharmaceutical problems. This article reviews the pharmacology, efficacy, and pharmaceutical results of using continuous infusion intravenous diazepam to treat status epilepticus.
Hypersensitivity Reaction to Mannitol
Authors: McNeill Irene Y.
Published: May 2016

A 60-year-old atopic female was admitted for investigation of progressive neurological deficits involving her left hand, arm, and shoulder. A computed tomography scan demonstrated a right parietal lesion of her brain, which was removed.

Increasing intracranial pressure necessitated the administration of mannitol 20% 250 ml. The patient stated she had a “tightness” in her chest during the mannitol administration.

Five days later, rises in intracranial pressure again necessitated the infusion of mannitol 20% 150 ml. After 100 ml of the solution had been infused, the patient experienced mild respiratory distress, cyanosed lips, and hives of her abdomen. Supportive therapy, including aminophylline and diphenyhydramine administration, abated her distress.

Anaphylaxis to mannitol administration has only been reported twice previously, despite mannitol's widespread use. Physicians and pharmacists should be aware that severe hypersensitivity reactions may occur, especially in patients with a history of atopy.
Hepatitis Associated with Propylthiouracil Treatment
Authors: Garty Ben-Zion , Kauli Rivka , Ben-Ari Josef , Lubin Ernest , Nitzan Menachem , Laron Zvi
Published: May 2016

A 12-year-old girl with hyperthyroidism who had started treatment with propylthiouracil (PTU) 100 mg tid developed hepatitis. The drug was stopped, and the clinical and laboratory findings of hepatitis disappeared within a week. She was not receiving other drugs that could cause hepatic damage, and investigations for various viral agents were negative. This is the ninth report of PTU-induced hepatitis. The clinical picture is similar to that of viral hepatitis. Recovery usually occurs after withdrawal of the drug, but there have been two fatal cases of PTU-induced hepatitis.
Hydrochlorothiazide-Induced Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Okafor Kingsley C. , Griffin Cynthia , Ngole Peter M.
Published: May 2016

A case of thrombocytopenic purpura caused by hydrochlorothiazide is reported. A 65-year-old man received hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/d to control his mild hypertension. Approximately one year after initiation of therapy, the patient developed epistaxis and generalized malaise with anorexia. A peripheral blood smear showed a reduction in platelets. The drug was discontinued; two weeks later the patient's symptoms resolved completely and his platelet count returned to normal. The results of several experiments suggest a mechanism of sensitivity, i.e., an antigen-antibody type of reaction. Hydrochlorothiazide therapy should be stopped if thrombocytopenic purpura develops. If recognized early, the symptoms will resolve spontaneously. The use of corticosteroids may aid in shortening the duration of thrombocytopenia.
Metoclopramide as an Antiemetic Agent in Pediatric Oncology Patients
Authors: Howrie Denise L. , Felix Carolyn , Wollman Michael , Juhl Randy P. , Blatt Julie
Published: May 2016

Metoclopramide (MCP) was used as an antiemetic agent in 11 pediatric oncology patients during 22 courses of cancer therapy including cisplatin, doxorubicin, and other agents. Initial MCP regimens used 2 mg/kg/dose iv prior to and at 1.5, 3.5, 5.5, and 8.5 hours post-chemotherapy. Subsequent dose reduction to 1 mg/kg and addition of diphenhydramine to all regimens has been made to decrease adverse drug effects. Seven of 11 children reported subjective benefit, defined by comparison with previous antiemetic response, comfort, and willingness to continue MCP therapy. MCP effectively reduced the volume of emesis per 24-hour period as compared with volume of emesis recorded following other antiemetics, an observation that should be confirmed in controlled studies of efficacy.

Acute dystonic reactions developed in five children, occurring most frequently in those who received 2 mg/kg/dose regimens or consecutive day dosing. These reactions were rapidly reversible with diphenhydramine, but limited patient acceptance of further MCP use.
Factors Contributing to Medication Noncompliance in Elderly Public Housing Tenants
Authors: Murray Michael D. , Darnell Jeffrey , Weinberger Morris , Martz B.L.
Published: May 2016

A study examined the extent and correlates of noncompliance in 155 predominantly elderly public housing tenants. Data were gathered through in-home interviews; only data from tenants taking prescribed medications on a regularly scheduled basis (n= 140) were analyzed. Noncompliance was significantly (p<0.05) associated with taking more than five prescribed medications, an inability to read prescription and auxiliary labels, and difficulty opening flip-off type medication container lids.

The results indicate that attempts to reduce the total number of prescription drug products used in these elderly residents by carefully scrutinizing the need for each prescription drug may enhance compliance. Pharmacists could assist in the detection of elderly patients at risk for medication noncompliance (five or more total prescription medications) by assessing the patients' ability to read labels on prescription containers for all new drug additions and refills, and by having them try to open a flip-off container lid.
The Use of Subtherapeutic Antibiotics in Animal Feed and its Implications on Human Health
Authors: Gersema Lisa M. , Helling Dennis K.
Published: May 2016

Antibiotics were approved for use as animal feed additives in 1950 after it was discovered that their use (1) increased growth rate, (2) improved feed utilization, and (3) reduced mortality and morbidity from clinical and subclinical infections in animals. Subtherapeutic use of antibiotics in animal feed grew extensively and concern has arisen that this “indiscriminate” use of antibiotics could lead to increased numbers of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and ultimately compromise treatment of human bacterial infections. Three recently published studies seem to indicate that animal-to-man transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria is possible. Increased debate on the continuing allowance of antibiotic feed additives has ensued. The National Resources Defense Council has recently petitioned the FDA to disallow penicillin and tetracycline use in animal feed, and legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives that would limit the subtherapeutic use of antibiotics in animal feed. Experts have predicted that meat prices would increase and meat quality would decrease if antibiotics are disallowed as a feed additive. It is the opinion of the authors that there is no conclusive evidence at this time to support the premise that subtherapeutic use of antibiotics in animal feed poses a greater threat to human health than if antibiotic feed additives were banned.
Warfarin-Griseofulvin Interaction
Authors: Okino Karen , Weibert Robert T.
Published: May 2016

A 61-year-old man with a mitral valve replacement who had been therapeutically anticoagulated with warfarin for the previous 12 months had a decrease in his prothrombin time after starting treatment with griseofulvin. Over a three-month period his warfarin dose was gradually increased. An overall increase of 41 percent was needed to maintain therapeutic anticoagulation. A reduction in the griseofulvin dose resulted in an increase in the prothrombin time and, subsequently, a lowering of the warfarin dose. No other potential causes for the decreased response to warfarin were identified. While there previously has only been limited documentation of this interaction, it appears that a substantial decrease in the response to warfarin can occur following initiation of griseofulvin therapy. Immediate adjustment of the warfarin dose at the onset of griseofulvin therapy is not needed. However, the prothrombin time should be monitored at weekly intervals and the dose of warfarin increased according to the patient's response.
Neuroleptic Plasma Concentrations and Clinical Response: In Search of a Therapeutic Window
Authors: Sramek John J. , Potkin Steven G. , Hahn Rhoda
Published: May 2016

There is much interest in finding a therapeutic window for commonly used neuroleptics so that dosage can be individualized and side effects minimized. The authors review specific requirements of good study design and survey the literature that has investigated the relationship between therapeutic response and plasma concentrations of neuroleptics. The evidence from a number of fixed-dose haloperidol studies suggests, but does not yet prove, the existence of a therapeutic window for this compound.
Urinary Incontinence in the Elderly: Etiology and Treatment
Authors: Romanowski Gale L. , Shimp Leslie A. , Balson Amy B. , Cahn Marla I.
Published: May 2016

Urinary incontinence is a common, though often hidden, medical problem among the elderly. Urinary continence requires integrity of the neural, muscular, and hormonal systems. Five distinct types of urinary incontinence can be distinguished based on patient symptoms. A variety of factors can impair continence, including aging, environmental barriers, and medications. Both pharmacological and nonpharmacological measures are useful in the treatment of incontinence.
A threat to childhood innocence or the future of learning? Parents’ perspectives on the use of touch-screen technology by 0–3 year-olds in the UK
Authors: O’Connor Jane , Fotakopoulou Olga
Published: May 2016

The rise in personal ownership of touch-screen technology such as iPads and smartphones in the UK in recent years has led to the increasing use of such technology by babies and very young children. This article explores this practice via an online parental survey with 226 UK parents of children aged 0–3 years within the context of the current debate around whether technology is a problematic or advantageous aspect of contemporary childhood. Using a theoretical framework which draws on dominant discourses of childhood, the article presents and analyses data from this survey in order to ascertain how 0–3s are using touch-screen technology in UK homes, and what parents perceive to be the potential benefits and disadvantages of their usage. The findings are discussed in terms of changes in parenting practice, and the importance of further research in the area is emphasised.
Extension block technique for mallet fractures: a comparison of one and two dorsal pins
Authors: Akgun U. , Bulut T. , Zengin E. C. , Tahta M. , Sener M.
Published: May 2016

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of one or two dorsal pins for extension blocking of mallet fractures. We treated 36 mallet fractures with the extension block technique. A single pin was used in 19 fractures (Group 1) and two pins in 17 fractures (Group 2). The mean age was 33.6 years and the mean follow-up time was 12.2 months. All patients were assessed by the Crawford outcome score. Extensor lag and other complications were noted. All fractures united with a mean time of 6.0 weeks (4–9) in Group 1, and 6.1 weeks (4–7) in Group 2. We obtained 74% and 71% excellent and good outcome scores in Group 1 and in Group 2, respectively. The final extension lag was 6° in Group 1, and 7° in Group 2. No difference was found between the two groups in terms of clinical outcomes, radiological values and complications.

Level 3 non-randomized controlled study.
Von Willebrand factor and alkaline phosphatase predict re‐transplantation‐free survival after the first liver transplantation
Authors: Wannhoff Andreas , Rauber Conrad , Friedrich Kilian , Rupp Christian , Stremmel Wolfgang , Weiss Karl Heinz , Schemmer Peter , Gotthardt Daniel N
Published: May 2016

Background

After liver transplantation (LT), there are liver‐related, infectious and cardiovascular complications that contribute to reduced graft survival. These conditions are associated with an increase in the Von Willebrand factor antigen (VWF‐Ag), which was previously correlated with survival in cirrhotic patients.

Objective

Evaluate VWF‐Ag as a predictive marker of re‐transplantation‐free survival in patients after LT.

Methods

We measured VWF‐Ag in patients after first LT and then followed them prospectively with regard to the primary endpoint, namely re‐transplantation‐free survival.

Results

There were 6 out of 80 patients who died or received re‐LT during follow‐up. In these patients, the median VWF‐Ag was 510.6%, which was significantly higher (p  = 0.001) than in the patients who were alive at the end of follow‐up (with a median VWF‐Ag = 186.8%). At a cut‐off of 286.8%, VWF‐Ag was significantly correlated with re‐transplantation‐free survival (p  < 0.001). VWF‐Ag was independently associated with re‐transplantation‐free survival in a multivariate analysis; as was alkaline phosphatase (ALP), but not the model of end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score, donor age, nor cold ischemia time. A score combining VWF‐Ag and ALP showed an impressive capability in the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis (with area under the curve (AUC) = 0.958) to distinguish between patients with regard to the primary endpoint.

Conclusions

VWF‐Ag is a non‐invasive marker that can predict outcome in patients after LT. Its diagnostic performance increased when combined with ALP in a newly developed scoring system.
Does calprotectin level identify a subgroup among patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome? Results of a prospective study
Authors: Melchior Chloé , Aziz Moutaz , Aubry Typhaine , Gourcerol Guillaume , Quillard Muriel , Zalar Alberto , Coëffier Moïse , Dechelotte Pierre , Leroi Anne‐Marie , Ducrotté Philippe
Published: May 2016

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome is a multifactorial disease. Although faecal calprotectin has been shown to be a reliable marker of intestinal inflammation, its role in irritable bowel syndrome remains debated.

Objective

The aims of this prospective study were to select a subgroup of irritable bowel syndrome patients and to characterise those patients with high faecal calprotectin by systematic work‐up.

Methods

Calprotectin levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay test in consecutive irritable bowel syndrome patients fulfilling Rome III criteria in whom normal colonoscopy and appropriate tests had excluded organic disease. Calprotectin levels were compared in irritable bowel syndrome patients, healthy controls and patients with active and quiescent Crohn’s disease. When the calprotectin level was higher than 50 µg/g, the absence of ANCA/ASCA antibodies and a normal small bowel examination were required to confirm irritable bowel syndrome diagnosis. Additional explorations included assessment of irritable bowel syndrome severity, anxiety and depression, impact on quality of life, glucose and fructose breath tests, rectal distension test by barostat and quantitative and qualitative assessment of inflammation on colonic biopsies.

Results

Among the 93 irritable bowel syndrome patients (73% women; 66.7% with diarrhoea) recruited, 34 (36.6%) had reproducibly elevated calprotectin. Although they tended to be older than those with normal calprotectin (P  = 0.06), there were no other differences between the two groups. When elevated, calprotectin was correlated with age (P  = 0.03, r  = 0.22).

Conclusions

Elevated faecal calprotectin was observed in one third of patients in this series, without any significant association with a specific clinical phenotype (except age) or specific abnormalities.
Thoracentesis
Authors: DeBiasi Erin M. , Puchalski Jonathan
Published: May 2016

Pleural effusions are common and account for high morbidity and mortality in a range of patients. Thoracentesis can provide significant symptom relief and improvement in physiologic parameters including dyspnea, exercise, and sleep. Recent advances, including the use of ultrasound and dedicated procedural teams, have improved the safety of thoracentesis. This has allowed thoracentesis to be performed on higher-risk individuals including those with elevated bleeding risk and bilateral pleural effusions. This review will summarize recent advances in thoracentesis procedural safety, symptom relief following thoracentesis, and understanding of the physiologic basis for such improvements.
Trends in Pleural Effusion Research
Authors: Bielsa Silvia , Porcel José M.
Published: May 2016

Background:

Research in pleural diseases has traditionally been neglected but is now growing.

Objectives:

This study aimed to analyze scientific research trends on pleural effusions over the last decades.

Method:

We conducted a bibliometric analysis of the Scopus database from its inception to March 2016, searching for original articles and reviews on “pleural effusion” (key word). Journal, year of publication, number of citations, authors and their affiliations, and the Hirsch (H)-index for some of these variables were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 15 982 documents were retrieved, of which half have been published in the last 18 years and a quarter during the last 8 years. Chest ranked first regarding the number of documents on pleural effusions (both absolute number and yearly rate) and their scientific relevance (H-index of 76). The United States had contributed the most to pleural research productivity (23%). American pulmonologists Dr Richard Light and Dr Steven Sahn exhibited the highest number of papers (206 and 156, respectively) and author H-indexes (44 and 38, respectively).

Conclusion:

There is growing research activity in the field of pleural effusions, which has gained relevance and visibility in clinical respiratory journals. The United States is the leader in quantity and quality of research productivity in pleural medicine.
Cu0.8Mg1.2Si2O6: a copper-bearing silicate with the low-clinopyroxene structure
Authors: Ding Lei , Darie Céline , Colin Claire V. , Bordet Pierre
Published: May 2016

The Cu0.8Mg1.2Si2O6pyroxene has been synthesized using a soft chemistry method. Its crystal structure was determined from powder X-ray diffraction data. Cu0.8Mg1.2Si2O6crystallizes with the lowclinopyroxene monoclinic structure (space group P21/c). The role of the Jahn-Teller-distorted Cu2+cation on the stability of this strongly distorted structure is investigated. Cu2+shows a strong preference for the M2site, attributed to a better adaptation of its JT-distorted coordination polyhedron to this already distorted and more flexible site. Comparison with previously reported compounds indicates that increasing the Cu content enhances the M2 site distortion, eventually leading to symmetry lowering from orthorhombic Pbca to monoclinic P21/c. These observations bring new insight into the mechanisms of formation and chemical composition of pyroxene minerals in the presence of JT cations.
Primary phases in aluminous slags produced by the aluminothermic reduction of pyrochlore
Authors: Mitchell Roger H. , Mariano Anthony N.
Published: May 2016

Phases present in slags from Araxá (Brazil), Oka (Quebec) and Fen (Norway) resulting from the production of ferroniobium by the aluminothermic reduction of pyrochlore-group minerals are a function of composition of the pyrochlore feed and the diverse fluxes (CaO, CaF2) added to the alumina and iron oxide used in the reduction process. Absent from all slags investigated are Fe-bearing compounds. All of the slags are modally-dominated by prismatic crystals of β-alumina or hibonite, with a wide variety of Th-Ba-Ti-Nb-Al-oxide compounds and silico-aluminate glasses occurring in the interstices between these crystals. Slag from Fen consists of a framework of β-alumina (Ba and/or CaTi varieties) with a barian titanian niobate, considered to be an highly reduced Nb3+- and Ti3+-bearing anion deficient perovskite, as the first oxide phase to crystallize. This was followed by a Zr-Ti-Th-niobate (21.7–24.1 wt.% ThO2), a Nb-rich, Thbearing zirconolite-like phase (17.7–21.2 wt.%; Nb2O5; 6.8–9.5 wt.% ThO2) and diverse Th-Nb-rich, Alpoor (< 1 wt.% Al2O3) perovskites (29.4–40.5 wt.% Nb2O5; 3.3–11.4 wt.% ThO2). The latter represents a NaNbO3–CaTiO3–Na2/3Th1/3TiO3–ThTi2O6solid solution. Late Na-rich silicate glass contains celsian. Slag from Araxá also consists of a framework of β-alumina (Ti-poor). Interstitial compounds differ from Fen in being predominantly rare-earth element (REE)-Nb-Al-Th-perovskites belonging to a REEAlO3–Ca2AlNbO6–CaTiO3–ThTi2O6solid solution with minor NaNbO3and CaZrO3, and compositionally diverse barium calcium aluminates [(Ba, Ca)Al2O4] set in a F-bearing (6–7 wt.%) Na-Ba-Si-aluminate glass with minor Ba4Nb2O9, CaF2, BaF2and NaF. Slag from Oka consists of a framework of hibonite [(Ca, REE) (Al, Ti, Mg)12O19] zoned with respect to the REE content. Interstitial compounds are CaZr4O9, Nb-Th-poor perovskites belonging to the REEAlO3–CaTiO3series with minor CaZrO3set in a F-bearing (5–6 wt.%) calcium aluminate glass. These data demonstrate that during ferroniobium production REE, Zr, Th, U and significant amounts of Nb are sequestered in the oxide phases in accord with their lithophile geochemical character. None of these elements are present as compounds in the siderophillic ferroniobium alloys. These data demonstrate that the aluminothermic reduction process results in the loss of significant amounts of Nb to the slag. Perovskite-group compounds are present in all of the slags but differ widely in their composition as a result of compositional differences in the feed pyrochlores and fluxes added to the smelting process. Slags originating from ferroniobium production are enriched in Th and U and could be considered as an environmental hazard if these elements are mobilized during chemical weathering of slag.
T-induced displacive phase transition of end-member Pb-lawsonite
Authors: Ende Martin , Wunder Bernd , Koch-Müller Monika , Pippinger Thoma. , Buth Gernot , Giester Gerald , Lengauer Christian L. , Libowitzky Eugen
Published: May 2016

Pb-lawsonite, PbAl2[(OH)2|Si2O7]·H2O, space group Pbnm, was synthesized as crystals up to 15 μm × 5 μm × 5 μm in size by a piston cylinder technique at a pressure of ∼4 GPa and a temperature of 873 ± 10 K. Temperature-dependent powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses partly using synchrotron radiation as well as Raman spectroscopic investigations reveal a phase transition around 445 K resulting in the Cmcm high-temperature structure. The transformation temperature is considerably higher than that of lawsonite around 273 K, which is characterized predominantly by proton order/disorder. The transition is confirmed using principal component analysis and subsequent hierarchical cluster analysis on both the powder XRD patterns and the Raman spectra. Furthermore, a non-uniform change is observed around 355 K, which is not as pronounced as the 445 K transition and apparently comes from enhanced hydrogen bonding, which stops the atom shifts in Pb-lawsonite. These are the same bonds that mainly characterize the phase transition in lawsonite around 273 K. In contrast, the structural transition of Pblawsonite at 445 K seems to originate from the interaction of the SiO4tetrahedra and AlO6octahedra framework with the Pb2+cation. The structural environment of Pb2+can be described by a 12-fold coordination above 445 K, which changes towards irregular ten-fold coordination below this temperature. An assignment of the O–H stretching Raman bands confirms moderately strong H bonds in Pb-lawsonite, whereas both strong and weak H bonds exist in lawsonite. Therefore, a further phase transition of Pblawsonite, similar to that of lawsonite around 273 K, is not expected.
Fixed points for cyclic R-contractions and solution of nonlinear Volterra integro-differential equations
Authors: Abbas Mujahid , Latif Abdul , Suleiman Yusuf I
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we introduce the notion of cyclic R-contraction mapping and then study the existence of fixed points for such mappings in the framework of metric spaces. Examples and application are presented to support the main result. Our result unify, complement, and generalize various comparable results in the existing literature.
Cancer-Related Hypercalcemia
Authors: Goldner Whitney
Published: May 2016

Hypercalcemia has been reported to occur in up to 30% of patients who have a malignancy. Hypercalcemia is most common in those who have later-stage malignancies and predicts a poor prognosis for those with it. The most common causes include humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy mediated by parathyroid hormone–related peptide, osteolytic cytokine production, and excess 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D production. However, the etiology is not always mediated by malignancy. Hypercalcemia can occur in those with malignancy and an additional etiology for hypercalcemia such as primary hyperparathyroidism or granulomatous diseases. This paper reviews the cancers associated with hypercalcemia and their proposed mechanisms, nontumor-mediated hypercalcemia, as well as diagnosis and treatment strategies for each condition.
Ywhaz/14-3-3ζ Deletion Improves Glucose Tolerance Through a GLP-1-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Lim Gareth E. , Piske Micah , Lulo James E. , Ramshaw Hayley S. , Lopez Angel F. , Johnson James D.
Published: May 2016

Multiple signaling pathways mediate the actions of metabolic hormones to control glucose homeostasis, but the proteins that coordinate such networks are poorly understood. We previously identified the molecular scaffold protein, 14-3-3ζ, as a critical regulator of in vitro β-cell survival and adipogenesis, but its metabolic roles in glucose homeostasis have not been studied in depth. Herein, we report that Ywhaz gene knockout mice (14-3-3ζKO) exhibited elevated fasting insulin levels while maintaining normal β-cell responsiveness to glucose when compared with wild-type littermate controls. In contrast with our observations after an ip glucose bolus, glucose tolerance was significantly improved in 14-3-3ζKO mice after an oral glucose gavage. This improvement in glucose tolerance was associated with significantly elevated fasting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels. 14-3-3ζ knockdown in GLUTag L cells elevated GLP-1 synthesis and increased GLP-1 release. Systemic inhibition of the GLP-1 receptor attenuated the improvement in oral glucose tolerance that was seen in 14-3-3ζKO mice. When taken together these findings demonstrate novel roles of 14-3-3ζ in the regulation of glucose homeostasis and suggest that modulating 14-3-3ζ levels in intestinal L cells may have beneficial metabolic effects through GLP-1-dependent mechanisms.
Principles that Govern Electronic Transport in Organic Conductors and Transistors
Authors: Mori Takehiko
Published: May 2016

Energy bands of organic conductors are calculated on the basis of the estimation of intermolecular overlap integrals and the tight-binding approximation. The resulting Fermi surface has been investigated by the measurements of low-temperature magnetoresistance in detail. However, we have to take electron correlation into account to explain the variation of the metal-insulator transition temperatures and the universal phase diagram. In particular, intermolecular Coulomb repulsion gives a variety of charge-order patterns, in which non-stripe charge order is important in a triangular network of organic conductors. Non-stripe charge order is an origin of flat resistivity, nonlinear conductivity, and potentially Dirac fermions. The estimation of intermolecular interaction is extended to the πd-systems, where the magnetic interactions J between the π-electrons and metal spins make a network. To discuss the charge transport in organic transistors, energy levels of the molecules are important. However, since the energy levels are considerably modified at the metal/organic interface, it is useful to use chemical doping and organic charge-transfer salts in the conducting parts of organic transistors. Temperature dependence of an organic transistor comes from the midgap trap states, but eliminating the traps in a single-crystal transistor, we can achieve band-like transport maintained down to low temperatures.
CONSTRUCTIVE ASPECTS OF INTEGRATION. ISSUES OF THE MATERIAL INTEGRAL EQUATIONS
Authors: Котов  , Kotov P.
Published: May 2016

The differential equation with the continuous disturbance effect in the right part is considered and solid approaches to the initial equation solution, to the integration of an initial problem in relation to the variant of o gravitational interaction model represented by the differential equation in a normal form are proposed.
APPROACH OF 3D SIMULATION AN EXPERIMENTAL COMPLEX WITH APPLICATION-SPECIFIC OF LASER SOURCE
Authors: Лавлинский  , Lavlinskiy V. , Савченко  , Savchenko Andrey
Published: May 2016

In article is valued the approach of 3D simulation an experimental complex with application-specific of laser source based on the methods of syntheses to virtual reality.
APPROACH OF 3D SIMULATION AN EXPERIMENTAL COMPLEX WITH X-RAY SOURCE
Authors: Лавлинский  , Lavlinskiy V. , Савченко  , Savchenko Andrey
Published: May 2016

In article is valued the approach of 3D simulation an experimental complex with X-Ray source based on the methods of syntheses to virtual reality.
Product Policy in Markets with Word-of-Mouth Communication
Authors: Godes David
Published: May 2016

We investigate the equilibrium relationship between product quality and word-of-mouth (WOM) communication. Specifically, we ask whether firms should optimally produce “better” products when consumers are more likely to exchange information. The critical moderating factor in our model is the nature of the communication and what its primary impact is. We first look at WOM that expands awareness of a product. We show that quality may either increase or decrease as WOM expands. The answer depends, in part, on the extent to which the expansion of WOM is one of scale alone or whether it also fundamentally changes the structure of communications. Next, we examine a model in which the primary impact of WOM is to help people to evaluate the utility provided by products with which they are already familiar. Our model suggests that more WOM in this context should always lead to higher-quality products. We demonstrate that the underlying driver of this result is that the elasticity of demand with respect to quality is increasing in the proportion of consumers who are informed about the product’s quality. Taken together, the two models therefore suggest that the firm’s optimal product-policy response to the growth in social interactions depends on both the content and the structure of the underlying conversations. Finally, we compare both WOM models to analogous models of advertising and demonstrate that the firm’s optimal response to a decrease in advertising costs is quite different from that to an increase in WOM. The reason for these differences can be traced back to a fundamental distinction between advertising and WOM: although the former is optimized, the latter is far more random.

This paper was accepted by J. Miguel Villas-Boas, marketing.
Disagreement, Underreaction, and Stock Returns
Authors: Cen Ling , Wei K. C. John , Yang Liyan
Published: May 2016

We explore analysts’ earnings forecast data to improve on one popular disagreement measure—the analyst forecast dispersion measure—proposed by Diether et al. [Diether KB, Malloy CJ, Scherbina A (2002) Differences of opinion and the cross section of stock returns. J. Finance 57:2113–2141]. Our analysis suggests that changes in the standard deviations of forecasted earnings can work as a complementary disagreement measure that is comparable across stocks and immune from other return-predictive information contained in the normalization scalars of analyst forecast dispersion measures. We also document evidence that the change-based disagreement measure predicts future cross-sectional returns significantly only when changes in the mean forecasts are negative. This finding suggests that the interaction between disagreement and underreaction to earnings news affects asset prices.

This paper was accepted by Wei Jiang, finance.
Contingency theories of leadership: how might we use them in clinical practice?
Authors: Mills JKA , McKimm J
Published: May 2016

This article explores how contingency theories of leadership (pragmatic theories that note ‘no one size fits all’) can be used by multidisciplinary health-care teams to improve communication and patient care.
The role of etomidate as an anaesthetic induction agent for critically ill patients
Authors: Allen Claire , Washington Stephen
Published: May 2016

Etomidate is an anaesthetic induction agent which may be favoured in critically ill patients because of its cardiovascular stability. However, etomidate causes adrenocortical suppression which may be particularly harmful in these patients. This article reviews current evidence and debates the use of etomidate in critical illness.
A critical review of NICE Guideline 39—major trauma: assessment and initial management
Authors: Hodkinson Mark
Published: May 2016

Major trauma is a leading cause of death in the under 40 years age group, and has a significant impact on morbidity, causing a financial burden to the National Health Service ( National Audit Office, 2010 ). A recent guideline published by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence ( NICE, 2016a ) seeks to address the recommendations made by a National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (2007) and the National Audit Office (2010) , therefore improving the standards of trauma care delivery across England.

This article critically appraises the recommendations made by NICE (2016a) , while considering the available evidence and the implications on pre-hospital major trauma care.
Morfofisiologia e produção do algodoeiro herbáceo irrigado com águas salinas eadubado com nitrogênio
Authors: Dos Santos João Batista , Gheyi Hans Raj , De Lima Geovani Soares , Xavier Diego Azevedo , Cavalcante Lourival Ferreira , Marenco Centeno Cruz Ramón
Published: May 2016

The high salt concentrations found in irrigation formation of water in semi-arid regions lead to changes on crops growth and development and can lead to halomorphicsoils formation. In this context, it was proposed to evaluate the morphophysiology and production of colored herbaceous cotton BRS Topaz fertilized with nitrogen under a saline-sodic soil and submitted to the irrigation with water of different salinities. The experiment was conducted in an eutrophic sandy quartzarênico Neossol in the municipality of Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brazil, adopting a completely randomized design in 5x5 factorial with three repetitions, with five salinity levels of the the irrigation water (0 7; 2.7; 4.7; 6.7 and 8.7 dS m-1 at 25°C) and five levels of nitrogen (40; 60; 80; 100 and 120 mg of N kg-1). Regarding cotton growth, no effect was observed for the interaction between salinity and soil nitrogen doses. The absolute growth rate for height, stem diameter and leaf area decreased with an increase in the irrigation water electrical conductivity, being leaf area the most affected variable.The number of bolls and the cotton seed production per plant decreased with the salinity increase and increased with in increase of nitrogen fertilization.
Comportamento Per se de híbridos de capim-elefante para fins energéticos
Authors: Menezes Bruna Rafaela Da Silva , Daher Rogério Figueiredo , Gravina Geraldo De Amaral , Gottardo Romildo Domingos , Schneider Larissa Scheideger Athayde , Rocha Avelino Dos Santos
Published: May 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the Per se performance of elephant grass hybrids obtained by partial diallel crossing and also their parents for energy purposes through agronomic traits during rainy and dry seasons. The experiment was conducted at Pesagro experimental station, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil, in randomized blocks, with three repetitions. The crosses were made between contrasting parents in a partial diallel scheme with 5 female parents x 5 male parents. The treatments consisted of ten parents, twenty-five hybrid combinations and the control. Three cuts were realized for evaluations (April and October 2013 and April 2014). The characteristics evaluated were: plant height (ALT), in m; stem diameter (SD), in cm; leaf blade width (LB), in cm; number of tillers per linear meter (NP); dry matter percentage (%DM) and dry matter production (DMP), in t.ha-1. Variance analysis were performed and the means were grouped according to Scott-Knott test (P <0.05). It was oberved that the hybrid H4 (Cuban Pinda x Taiwan A-144), H7 (Cameroon - Piracicaba x Três Rios), H8 (Cameroon - Piracicaba x Mercker 86-Mexico), H10 (Cameroon - Piracicaba x Roxo), H13 (P241-86-Piracicaba x Mercker 86-Mexico), H17 (IAC Campinas x Três Rios) and H18 (IAC-86-Campinas x Mercker 86-Mexico) presented high biomass production.
Facile bio-inspired synthesis of zinc sulfide nanoparticles using Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cell free extract: optimization, characterization and optical properties
Authors: Rao M. Divya , Pennathur Gautam
Published: May 2016

This study describes an eco-friendly, economical method to synthesize semiconductor zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticles using the cell free extract of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Physicochemical parameters like pH, temperature and cell free extract concentration were optimized. Spherical particles measuring 8–12 nm were observed under high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Elemental analysis proved that the nanoparticles were composed of zinc and sulfur, while powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) demonstrated the pure FCC crystal structure. Examination of the functional groups by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed that algal proteins were involved in the synthesis of the nanoparticles. These nanoparticles demonstrated unique optical properties that were probed with UV-visible and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. A peak at 310 nm was detected that was significantly blue-shifted from the bulk counterpart. Broad emission peaks at 410 nm and 430 nm were seen. The former was due to radiative recombination while the latter was attributed to defect states. In an effort to understand the molecular mechanism, the proteins bound to the nanoparticle surface were studied using sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS PAGE) and numerous proteins that are part of the cells’ oxidoreductive machinery were identified. These cellular proteins probably play a pivotal role in the synthesis and stabilization of ZnS nanoparticles.
Lives of persons with disabilities in Cameroon after CRPD: voices of persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality in Cameroon
Authors: Opoku Maxwell Peprah , Mprah Wisdom Kwadwo , Mckenzie Judith , Sakah Bernard Nsaidzedze , Badu Eric
Published: May 2016

Introduction:

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) has been touted as a major breakthrough towards achieving equal rights for persons with disabilities. The promulgation of the convention provided clear guidelines for signatory countries to revise their legislation as well as to formulate policies that will take into consideration the needs of persons with disabilities. As Cameroon is a signatory to the convention, it is expected that disability-friendly policies have been implemented to enhance the living conditions of persons with disabilities. This study examined, from the perspectives of participants, the life experiences of persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality 7 years after Cameroon signed the CRPD.

Methods:

The study adopted a qualitative method, involving focus-group discussions with 36 participants from three disability groups: hearing impaired, visually impaired, and physically impaired.

Findings:

The study found that persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality faced many challenges in their daily endeavors. These challenges are a result of a lack of inclusive policies, leading to their exclusion from social and economic activities such as education, employment, and healthcare.

Conclusion:

Although the study is limited in scope, the findings suggest that persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality were yet to benefit from the CRPD. It is, therefore, suggested that the government of Cameroon should formulate inclusive policies to address the numerous challenges facing persons with disabilities in the Buea Municipality.
Formalization of informally acquired competences as part of academic certificate programs in healthcare – “prototype” of a model / Formalisierung informell erworbener Kompetenzen im Rahmen akademischer Zertifikatsprogramme im Gesundheitsbereich – „Prototyp“ eines Modells
Authors: Wolf Alexander Karsten , Thiele Heike , Haar Markus , Kortekamp Stefanie , Braun von Reinersdorff Andrea
Published: May 2016

The health care sector is facing many aspects of transformation. One aspect amongst others herein is an alteration of qualification profiles. Universities have to focus on both aspects determining future qualification profiles and increasing permeability between educational systems in a sense of optimally intermeshing competences that have been acquired at universities and those that have been acquired outside of them. This leads to the question how to create university certificate programs that offers two aspects: academic qualification on the one hand and on the other hand a possibility to identify, evaluate and certify non-formally and informally acquired competences of participating students. The ultimate goal is to identify and evaluate a person´s overall competence in a clearly defined thematic context, whereat competences that have been acquired outside universities will play an important role. Competences that have been certified by these academic programs may be used later for crediting purposes. In this report an initial prototype is being presented. It defines itself mainly as additional novel way of discussing crediting concepts.
Raum und Macht – Eine Stoffgeschichte des Goldes im frühen 20. Jahrhundert
Authors: Grewe Bernd-Stefan
Published: May 2016

Focusing on the major flows of gold in early 20th century offers new perspectives on the various and often overlapping political, sociocultural and economic spaces that are linked to the production, transport, marketing and consumption of gold around the world. A material, but not materialistic, biography of gold helps to overcome the narrow “centrist” logic that still dominates many narratives of globalization as well as the historiography on gold. The paper studies different spatial impacts such as the geology and geographical conditions of the places where gold was found, the newly built infrastructures for energy and water with far-reaching effects, the political segregation of different ethnic groups, the systems of migrant work across national and imperial boundaries, work in mines on the surface and underground, channels of transport, the informal arrangements to direct the international flow of gold towards London, strategies of workers and unionists, the difficult conditions of peasant families in India as well as in South African reserves, and the important question of by whom and from where the global commodity chain of gold may have been directed.
Vom Rohstoff zum Produkt. Wirtschaftliche und technische Verflechtungen von Steinkohlen im Inde- und Wurmrevier
Authors: Thorade Nora
Published: May 2016

As an important fuel, hard coal shaped industrialisation. Due to its specific materiality, coal established different options for intertwining industry and resource. This paper concentrates on the one hand on the specific properties of coal and, on the other, on the economic and technological operations with coal. Using the example of the different material properties of coal from the coal districts of Inde and Wurm, these interrelations are examined and illustrate how a space of resource extraction could be arranged.