bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endogenous endophthalmitis caused byCitrobacter koserioriginating from a renal abscess
Authors: He Cong'En Jeremy , Miah Mijan , Sünkel-Laing Benjamin , Emmanuel Julian
Published: August 2014

We present a rare case of endogenous endophthalmitis caused byCitrobacter koseri. A 69-year-old woman with a history of poorly controlled diabetes and a protracted urinary tract infection (UTI) presented with a painful swollen left eye. There was no history of eye surgery or trauma. Imaging revealed an abscess in the right kidney. Although endophthalmitis is very rare in healthy patient, it is more common in the immunocompromised. In this patient, several multiple system illnesses including poorly controlled diabetes appear to have worked synergistically to make endophthalmitis a realistic complication of an otherwise isolated and remote source of infection, in this case pyelonephritis. Endophthalmitis, in the absence of an obvious exogenous cause, should be investigated thoroughly to exclude metastatic microbial spread. In addition, chronic features of UTI in a patient with poorly controlled diabetes or who is otherwise immunosuppressed warrant the exclusion of an underlying renal abscess.
Spermatic cord abscess: a rare complication of epididymo-orchitis, the diagnosis and management
Authors: Yam Wai Loon , Ng Foo Cheong
Published: August 2014

We present a case of a 54-year-old man who had a history of poorly controlled diabetes and end-stage renal failure on haemodialysis. He presented with an acute left groin swelling that was diagnosed to be a rare occurrence of spermatic cord abscess. Two months prior to this, he had had an episode of bacterial epididymo-orchitis that was treated with oral antibiotics. An urgent CT of the abdomen and pelvis was performed to rule out incarcerated inguinal hernia. The spermatic cord abscess was initially managed with appropriate intravenous antibiotics and ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage. When the pus eventually accumulated in the scrotum, an open incision and drainage of the scrotum was also performed. He achieved complete resolution after 2 months.
Mobile phone text messaging for improving the uptake of vaccinations: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Kalan Robyn , Wiysonge Charles S , Ramafuthole Tshepiso , Allie Kurt , Ebrahim Fatima , Engel Mark Emmanuel
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Low vaccine coverage is a major public health concern, the consequences of which contribute to around 1.5 million child deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases. Thus, innovative strategies to rapidly increase coverage and recall rates for vaccinations are urgently required. Mobile text messaging (or short messaging service, SMS) has the potential to help increase vaccination coverage and therefore we propose to conduct a review of the current best evidence for the use of SMS as an intervention to promote vaccination coverage.

Methods and analysis

This article describes the protocol for a systematic review of the effectiveness of SMS in improving the uptake of vaccination. Primary and secondary outcomes of interest are prespecified. We will preferably include randomised controlled trials (RCTs). However, non-randomised studies (NRS) will be considered if there is an inadequate number of RCTs. We will search several bibliographic databases (eg,PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, Science Citation Index, Africa-Wide Information and WHOLIS electronic databases and search sources for grey literature. Following data extraction and assessment of risk of bias, we will meta-analyse studies and conduct subgroup analyses, according to intervention subtypes. We will assess clinical heterogeneity and statistical heterogeneity. For outcomes without quantitative data, a descriptive analysis will be used. This review protocol is registered in the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of systematic reviews, registration number 2014:CRD42014007531

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics is not required for this study, given that this is a protocol for a systematic review, which uses published data. The findings of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. We anticipate that the results could be used by researchers and policymakers to help inform them of the efficacy of mobile phone text messaging interventions to promote increased vaccination coverage.

Trial registration number

PROSPERO registration number 2014:CRD42014007531.
Prevalence of skin diseases in civilian and military population in a Turkish military hospital in the central Black Sea region
Authors: Şenel Engin , Doğruer Şenel S , Salmanoğlu M
Published: August 2014

Objectives

There are no epidemiological studies comparing the prevalence of skin diseases between civilian and military populations. We sought to determine and compare the prevalence of skin conditions between civilian and military populations.

Methods

A total of 3382 male patients (1148 military and 2234 civilian) were retrospectively and consecutively evaluated at Merzifon Military Hospital in the central Black Sea Region of Turkey.

Results

The most frequent dermatological condition was tinea pedis (15.8%) followed by acne vulgaris, allergic contact dermatitis and alopecia areata in the military population (15.7%, 7.7% and 5.4%, respectively). Acne vulgaris, xerosis cutis and allergic contact dermatitis were the most common diagnoses in the civilian group (19.4%, 14.1% and 9.1%, respectively). The prevalence of tinea pedis, alopecia areata, pityriasis versicolor, ingrown nail (unguis incarnatus) and callus were statistically significantly higher in the military group (15.8% vs 4.4%, p<0.001; 5.4% vs 1.7%, p<0.05; 3.5% vs 0.7%, p<0.001; 3.3% vs 0.3%, p<0.001 and 4.6% vs 0.9%, p<0.001; respectively). Xerosis cutis was found to be significantly higher in the civilian group (14.1% vs 5.8%, p<0.001). Superficial fungal disease was the most prevalent disorder as in the previous literature.

Conclusions

Preventive measures should be taken to improve the health of troops and reduce the prevalence of the common disorders such as tinea pedis, alopecia areata and callus. Troops should wear boots only when necessary in base camps. Clothing which reduces ventilation is not recommended. Depression and anxiety should be recognised and treated in soldiers with alopecia areata, as a solely dermatological approach without psychological support may reduce treatment success.
In vivo extraction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from Micro-Tom tomato flowers with multiple solid phase microextraction (SPME) fibers
Authors: Cáceres Luis A. , McDowell Tim W. , Scott Ian M. , Hannoufa Abdelali , McGarvey Brian D. , Tian Lining , Yeung Ken K.-C. , Sumarah Mark W.
Published: August 2014

The in vivo headspace extraction of volatile organic compounds from Micro-Tom tomato flowers was investigated using multiple solid phase microextraction (SPME) fibers of different properties to maximize the extraction selectivity for a nontargeted analysis. The three fibers used in this work were polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), PDMS/divinylbenzene (DVB), and carboxen (CAR)/PDMS. Two sources for tomato flowers were used: Micro-Tom wild type (WT) and transgenic Micro-Tom overexpressing the carotenoid cleavage deoxygenase 1 gene. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) results demonstrated that the largest amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were observed with the PDMS/DVB fiber for both wild type and transgenic plants, but the CAR/PDMS and PDMS fibers contributed to the detection of selective compounds. Data revealed the presence of 45 VOCs from transgenic plants and 35 from the wild type when all three fibers were used together. Of the total VOCs identified, 30 were common to both types of plants, but 15 were specific to the transgenic and 5 to the wild type plants. The compounds identified from Micro-Tom flowers were mainly monocyclic and bicyclic monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, with one alkyl benzene compound. The bicyclic monoterpenes, (1R)-α-pinene, (1S)-α-pinene, and β-pinene, were found to be the most abundant molecules present in both wild type and transgenic plants. The overall advantage of maximizing the discovery of VOCs based on the selectivity differences with three SPME fibers was evident. Such a benefit is important in the nontargeted analysis of transgenic plants for detecting the production of unexpected compounds.
Achievements and Challenges: PM2.5 Control in China
Authors: LI Meng , PAN Jiahua
Published: August 2014

The heavy haze at the beginning of 2013 makes the PM2.5 once again a popular topic and sounds the alarm of China's environmental governance. Feedbacks from monitors show that PM2.5 pollution in China has the characteristics of high level, evenly distributed, complex components, etc. Chinese government has carried out measures to control air pollution including PM2.5, embarked on the toughest restriction policy of atmospheric pollutants emission, and made some progress. However, due to the complexity of PM2.5 governance and China's rapid economic development and urbanization process, the PM2.5 pollution control in China's cities is still faced with some problems. This paper gives the analysis and presents some suggestions.
miR-146aExpression Level as a Novel Putative Prognostic Marker for Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
Authors: Xu Lan , Zhong Hua , Wan Haixia , Chen Fang-yuan , Zhong Jihua , Xiao Fei , Liu Jia , Shen Lijing
Published: August 2014

Background. Although the curative rate for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) has been improved over decades, long-term prognosis is still poor. The genetic pathways that regulated cell lineage fate during the development of APL remain unclear.Methods. We investigated the correlations ofmiR-146aexpression with its target gene Smad4 and the biological behaviors of NB4cells. We also analyzed their expression in clinical samples from APL patients.Results.miR-146ainfluenced apoptosis and proliferation in NB4cells.miR-146ainfluenced endogenous Smad4 protein levels in APL cells.miR-146aexpression levels were positively correlated with white cell counts and PML/RARαfusion protein expression.miR-146aexpression levels were negatively correlated with Smad4 protein and the helper T cell (Th)/the suppressor T cell (Ts) ratio in these patients.Conclusions. These findings indicated thatmiR-146aplayed an important role in the development of APL in part through the repression on Smad4 protein expression.miR-146afunctioned as an oncogene and may be a novel prognostic biomarker in APL.
The Association between Apolipoprotein E Gene Polymorphism and Mild Cognitive Impairment among Different Ethnic Minority Groups in China
Authors: Wang ZhiZhong , Ma Wanrui , Rong Ye , Liu Lan
Published: August 2014

The association, in different ethnic groups, of apolipoprotein E (apoE) gene polymorphism with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has been unclear. Few studies have examined the association in Chinese minorities. The current study explores the association between apoE gene polymorphism and MCI in one of the biggest ethnic groups—the Hui—and compares it with the Han. The Minimental State Exam, Activities of Daily Living Scale, and Geriatric Depression Scale were administered to 306 ethnic Hui and 618 ethnic Han people aged≥55 years. ApoE genotypes were determined using the high resolution melting curve method. The distribution of the apoE genotype and the frequency of allelesε2,ε3, andε4 were similar in the Hui and Han groups. In analyses adjusted for age, gender, and education level, theε4 allele was a risk factor for MCI in both the Hui group (OR=2.61, 95% CI: 1.02–6.66) and the Han group (OR=2.36, 95% CI: 1.19–4.67), but the apoEε2 allele was protective for MCI only in the Han group (OR=0.48, 95% CI: 0.38–0.88). The association of some apoE genotypes with MCI may differ in different ethnic groups in China. Further studies are needed to explore this effect among different populations.
A New Quasi-Human Algorithm for Solving the Packing Problem of Unit Equilateral Triangles
Authors: Wang Ruimin , Qi Xiaozhuo , Luo Yuqiang , Dong Jianqiang
Published: August 2014

The packing problem of unit equilateral triangles not only has the theoretical significance but also offers broad prospects in material processing and network resource optimization. Because this problem is nondeterministic polynomial (NP) hard and has the feature of continuity, it is necessary to limit the placements of unit equilateral triangles before optimizing and obtaining approximate solution (e.g., the unit equilateral triangles are not allowed to be rotated). This paper adopts a new quasi-human strategy to study the packing problem of unit equilateral triangles. Some new concepts are put forward such as side-clinging action, and an approximation algorithm for solving the addressed problem is designed. Time complexity analysis and the calculation results indicate that the proposed method is a polynomial time algorithm, which provides the possibility to solve the packing problem of arbitrary triangles.
Generalized Steffensen Type Inequalities Involving Convex Functions
Authors: Pečarić Josip , Smoljak Kalamir Ksenija
Published: August 2014

In this paper generalized Steffensen type inequalities related to the class of functions that are “convex at pointc” are derived and as a consequence inequalities involving the class of convex functions are obtained. Moreover, linear functionals from the difference of the right- and left-hand side of the obtained generalized inequalities are constructed and new families of exponentially convex functions related to constructed functionals are derived.
Levels of Human Erythrocyte Membrane-Bound and Cytosolic Glycohydrolases Are Associated with Oxidative Stress in Erectile Dysfunction Patients
Authors: Massaccesi L. , Melzi d’Eril G. V. , Colpi G. M. , Tettamanti G. , Goi G. , Barassi A.
Published: August 2014

Oxidative stress (OS) and production of NO, by endothelium nitric oxide synthetase (eNOS), are involved in the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction (ED). Moreover, OS induces modifications of the physicochemical properties of erythrocyte (RBC) plasma membranes and of the enzyme content of the same membranes. Due to their role in signalling early membrane alterations in OS-related pathologies, several plasma membrane and cytosolic glycohydrolases of human RBC have been proposed as new markers of cellular OS. In RBC, NOS can be activated and deactivated by phosphorylation/glycosylation. In this regulatory mechanism O-β-N-AcetylGlucosaminidase is a key enzyme. Cellular levels of O-GlcNAcylated proteins are related to OS; consequently dysfunctional eNOS O-GlcNAcylation seems to have a crucial role in ED. To elucidate the possible association between RBC glycohydrolases and OS, plasma hydroperoxides and antioxidant total defenses (Lag-time), cytosolic O-β-N-AcetylGlucosaminidase, cytosolic and membrane Hexosaminidase, membraneβ-D-Glucuronidase, andα-D-Glucosidase have been studied in 39 ED patients and 30 controls. In ED subjects hydroperoxides and plasma membrane glycohydrolases activities are significantly increased whereas Lag-time values and cytosolic glycohydrolases activities are significantly decreased. These data confirm the strong OS status in ED patients, the role of the studied glycohydrolases as early OS biomarker and suggest their possible use as specific marker of ED patients, particularly in those undergoing nutritional/pharmacological antioxidant therapy.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Presenting with Obstructive Jaundice during Pregnancy
Authors: Chen Huan-wei , Wang Feng-jie , Li Jie-yuan , Lai Eric C. H. , Lau Wan Yee
Published: August 2014

Introduction. Both hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presenting during pregnancy and HCC presenting with obstructive jaundice due to a tumor cast in the biliary tract are very rare. The management of these patients remains challenging.Presentation of Case. A 23-year-old lady presented with obstructive jaundice at 38 weeks of gestation. Investigations showed HCC with a biliary tumor thrombus. She received percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) and caesarean section. Right hepatectomy, extrahepatic bile duct resection, and left hepaticojejunostomy were carried out when the jaundice improved. The postoperative course was uneventful. She was discharged home on postoperative day 10. Histopathology showed HCC with a tumor thrombus in the bile duct. The surgical margins were clear. One year after surgery, the mother was disease-free and the baby was well.Conclusion. With proper management, curative treatment is possible in a pregnant patient who presented with obstructive jaundice due to a biliary tumor thrombus from HCC.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Chain Folding for Polyethylene Subjected to Vibration Excitation
Authors: Gu Junfeng , Wang Xue , Wu Jinying , Wang Xicheng
Published: August 2014

We propose a molecular dynamics method with vibration excitation, named as VEMD, to investigate the vibration effect on chain folding for polymer molecule. The VEMD method is based on the introduction of periodic force, the amplitude and frequency of which can be adjusted, and the method was applied to the folding simulation of a polyethylene chain. Simulation results show that the vibration excitation significantly affects the folding of the polyethylene, and frequency and amplitude of the vibration excitation play key roles in VEMD. Different frequencies and amplitudes will determine how and to what extent does the vibration excitation affect the folding process of the polyethylene structure.
Immunological Barriers to Stem Cell Therapy in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Tullis Gregory E. , Spears Kathleen , Kirk Mark D.
Published: August 2014

The central nervous system is vulnerable to many neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease that result in the extensive loss of neuronal cells. Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into many types of cells, which make them ideal for treating such disorders. Although stem cell therapy has shown some promising results in animal models for many brain disorders it has yet to translate into the clinic. A major hurdle to the translation of stem cell therapy into the clinic is the immune response faced by stem cell transplants. Here, we focus on immunological and related hurdles to stem cell therapies for central nervous system disorders.
Experimental Study on Active Cooling Systems Used for Thermal Management of High-Power Multichip Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kaya Mehmet
Published: August 2014

The objective of this study was to develop suitable cooling systems for high-power multichip LEDs. To this end, three different active cooling systems were investigated to control the heat generated by the powering of high-power multichip LEDs in two different configurations (30 and 2 × 15 W). The following cooling systems were used in the study: an integrated multi-fin heat sink design with a fan, a cooling system with a thermoelectric cooler (TEC), and a heat pipe cooling device. According to the results, all three systems were observed to be sufficient for cooling high-power LEDs. Furthermore, it was observed that the integrated multifin heat sink design with a fan was the most efficient cooling system for a 30 W high-power multichip LED. The cooling system with a TEC and 46 W input power was the most efficient cooling system for 2 × 15 W high-power multichip LEDs.
OPN Polymorphism Is Related to the Chemotherapy Response and Prognosis in Advanced NSCLC
Authors: Hao Yanzhang , Liu Jianwei , Wang Ping , Wang Feng , Yu Zeshun , Li Mianli , Chen Shaoshui , Ning Fangling
Published: August 2014

Background.Osteopontin (OPN) is associated with prognosis of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, little is known about the association between OPN gene polymorphism and the chemotherapy response in NSCLC patients.Methods.A total of 497 patients with inoperable advanced stage of NSCLC (stages III B and IV NSCLC) were enrolled. All patients had received platinum-based chemotherapy. OPN gene polymorphisms at 156 GG/G, 443 C/T, and −66T/G were determined.Results.The genotypes and allele frequency of −443C>T were significantly different between the responders and nonresponders. Responders had a markedly higher frequency of −443TT genotype than responders (40.71% versus 19.09%,P<0.001). With CC as reference, the TT genotype carriers had a higher chance to be well responders (adjustedOR=4.43, 95% CI: 2.60–7.53, adjustedP<0.001). The median overall survival time for patients with −443CC, −443CT, and −443TT genotype carriers was significantly different. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models showed that OPN −443C>T gene polymorphisms were closely correlated to poor NSCLC prognosis.Conclusion.OPN −443C>T gene polymorphism may be used as a molecular marker to predict the treatment response to chemotherapy in advanced NSCLC patients.
Fourier Series of the Periodic Bernoulli and Euler Functions
Authors: Ryoo Cheon Seoung , Kwon Hyuck In , Yoon Jihee , Jang Yu Seon
Published: August 2014

We give some properties of the periodic Bernoulli functions and study the Fourier series of the periodic Euler functions which are derived periodic functions from the Euler polynomials. And we derive the relations between the periodic Bernoulli functions and those from Euler polynomials by using the Fourier series.
Baseline Moisture Resistance of PWP Cement Composite Boards Reinforced with Internal Glass Fiber Reinforcement under Accelerated Wet-Dry Aging
Authors: Prachasaree Woraphot , Piriyakootorn Sitthichai , Limkatanyu Suchart , Hawa Abideng
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this study was to improve the mechanical characteristics and moisture resistance of parawood particle (PWP) cement composite board developed by the authors. PWP cement composites were prepared with a mixture containing 15.0% parawood particles, 43.0% cement, 41.2% water, and 0.86% CaCl2 (by weight) and the PWP cement composite boards were internally reinforced with bidirectional glass fiber woven roving [0°/90°]. The board properties were evaluated under accelerated aging with wet-dry cycles to establish the durability and moisture resistance and the effect on flexural strength of the composite boards. The mechanical characteristics determined were the equivalent modulus of rupture (eMOR), the equivalent modulus of elasticity (eMOE), and the deformability factor (DF). The experimental results suggest that the strength and stiffness of the PWP composite boards with internal reinforcement are four times higher than those of the original PWP composite boards under accelerated aging based on 100 wet-dry cycles, implying better durability of the boards in outdoor use. The results provide a baseline to which improved formulations and reinforcements or designs can be compared using the same measurement methodology.
Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody Frequency in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Calhan Turan , Sahin Abdurrahman , Kahraman Resul , Altunoz Mustafa Erhan , Ozbakır Fatma , Ozdil Kamil , Sokmen Hacı Mehmet
Published: August 2014

Background. Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is a viral disease, common across the world, and associated with several extraintestinal manifestations including vasculitis. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) are sensitive and specific markers for vasculitides. There is limited data available in the literature on whether ANCA formation is stimulated by CHB infection. In the present study we aimed to identify the frequency of ANCA in CHB patients.Methods. A total of 174 subjects were included in the study (87 CHB patients, 87 control subjects). Perinuclear-ANCA (P-ANCA), cytoplasmic-ANCA (C-ANCA), myeloperoxidase ANCA (MPO-ANCA), and proteinase 3-ANCA (PR3-ANCA) were studied. IFA was used for P-ANCA and C-ANCA assays, and ELISA was used for MPO-ANCA and PR3-ANCA assays.Results. ANCA positivity was high in both groups (31% in the CHB group and 26% among controls). There were no significant differences between the groups for P-ANCA and MPO-ANCA (P= 0.6 andP= 0.6, resp.). Frequency of borderline positive C-ANCA and all positive PR3-ANCA (positive + borderline positive) was significantly higher in the CHB group (P= 0.009 andP= 0.005, resp.).Conclusions. In the present study, the frequency of ANCA was high in both groups. The CHB group had a relatively higher frequency of ANCA positivity compared to controls. Borderline positive C-ANCA and positive PR3-ANCA were significantly higher in the CHB group. These results suggest that ANCA may have a high prevalence in Turkey. Patients with CHB should be evaluated particularly for C-ANCA and PR3-ANCA in the presence of vasculitic complaints and lesions.
An Analysis of Security System for Intrusion in Smartphone Environment
Authors: Louk Maya , Lim Hyotaek , Lee HoonJae
Published: August 2014

There are many malware applications in Smartphone. Smartphone’s users may become unaware if their data has been recorded and stolen by intruders via malware. Smartphone—whether for business or personal use—may not be protected from malwares. Thus, monitoring, detecting, tracking, and notification (MDTN) have become the main purpose of the writing of this paper. MDTN is meant to enable Smartphone to prevent and reduce the number of cybercrimes. The methods are shown to be effective in protecting Smartphone and isolating malware and sending warning in the form of notification to the user about the danger in progress. In particular, (a) MDTN process is possible and will be enabled for Smartphone environment. (b) The methods are shown to be an advanced security for private sensitive data of the Smartphone user.
The Factors Involved in Deep Brain Stimulation Infection: A Large Case Series
Authors: Tolleson Christopher , Stroh Jessica , Ehrenfeld Jesse , Neimat Joseph , Konrad Peter , Phibbs Fenna
Published: August 2014

Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a proven treatment for various movement disorders resistant to medical management. Complications such as postsurgical infection can negate benefits and increase patient morbidity. We sought to better define risk factors for infection. Methods: We performed a review of DBS cases at our institution from January 1996 to June 2011. Information on multiple metrics including surgical complications, procedural complications and infection were entered into a secure online database. Results: A total of 447 patients received DBS surgery. Twenty-six (5.82%) developed infection sometime after DBS surgery with 9 (2.01%) developing infection within 30 days after the final staged surgery. Operating surgeon (p = 0.012), scalp erosion (p = 0.0001), surgical incision opening time (0.0001) and number of individuals in the operating room (0.0027) were significant in the cumulative infection group. Conclusion: The 30-day infection rate was comparably low to other published studies. Several factors were noted to be significant in the cumulative infection group, but none in the 30-day infection group. Further understanding of infection risk factors is important to optimize patient selection and standardize infection-preventative techniques.
Transgenic Knockdown of Cardiac Sodium/Glucose Cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) Attenuates
PRKAG2
Cardiomyopathy, Whereas Transgenic Overexpression of Cardiac SGLT1 Causes Pathologic Hypertrophy and Dysfunction in Mice
Authors: Ramratnam Mohun , Sharma Ravi K. , D'Auria Stephen , Lee So Jung , Wang David , Huang Xue Yin N. , Ahmad Ferhaan
Published: August 2014

Background

The expression of a novel cardiac glucose transporter,
SGLT
1, is increased in glycogen storage cardiomyopathy secondary to mutations in

PRKAG
2

. We sought to determine the role of
SGLT
1 in the pathogenesis of

PRKAG
2

cardiomyopathy and its role in cardiac structure and function.

Methods and Results

Transgenic mice with cardiomyocyte‐specific overexpression of human T400N mutant
PRKAG2
cDNA
(TG
T400N
) and transgenic mice with cardiomyocyte‐specific RNA interference knockdown of SGLT1 (TG
SGLT1‐DOWN
) were crossed to produce double‐transgenic mice (TG
T400N
/TG
SGLT1‐DOWN
). Tet‐off transgenic mice conditionally overexpressing cardiac SGLT1 in the absence of doxycycline were also constructed (TG
SGLT‐ON
). Relative to TG
T400N
mice, TG
T400N
/TG
SGLT1‐DOWN
mice exhibited decreases in cardiac SGLT1 expression (63% decrease,
P
<0.05), heart/body weight ratio, markers of cardiac hypertrophy, and cardiac glycogen content. TG
T400N
/TG
SGLT1‐DOWN
mice had less left ventricular dilation at age 12 weeks compared to TG
T400N
mice. Relative to wildtype (WT) mice, TG
SGLT1‐ON
mice exhibited increases in heart/body weight ratio, glycogen content, and markers of cardiac hypertrophy at ages 10 and 20 weeks. TG
SGLT1‐ON
mice had increased myocyte size and interstitial fibrosis, and progressive left ventricular dysfunction. When SGLT1 was suppressed after 10 weeks of overexpression (TG
SGLT1‐ON/OFF
), there was a reduction in cardiac hypertrophy and improvement in left ventricular failure.

Conclusions

Cardiac knockdown of
SGLT
1 in a murine model of

PRKAG
2

cardiomyopathy attenuates the disease phenotype, implicating
SGLT
1 in the pathogenesis. Overexpression of
SGLT
1 causes pathologic cardiac hypertrophy and left ventricular failure that is reversible. This is the first report of cardiomyocyte‐specific transgenic knockdown of a target gene.
Mathematical and Elemental Coordinates: The Role of Imagination
Authors: Freydberg Bernard
Published: August 2014

Both in Force of Imagination: The Sense of the Elemental (2000) and in his very recent Logic of Imagination: The Expanse of the Elemental (2012), John Sallis enacts a reconfiguration of the relationship of geometry to elementology, which might be regarded more generally as a rethinking of the relation of mathematics to philosophy. The paper will trace this reconfiguration in two ways: (1) as it lies present but concealed in the history of philosophy, for example, in Descartes’ so-called “dualism” and in Kant’s pure productive imagination, and (2) in its present creative evolution in fractal geometry, as Sallis interprets it. Sallis draws together the mathematical affinity with a fundamental aesthetic drive, likening mathematical patterns to choreographic ones. I conclude by following this strain as it points to specific dance companies, and to my own sense of aesthetic homecoming as presented in my Imagination in Kant’s Critique of Practical Reason.
Fire from Heaven in Elemental Tragedy: From Hölderlin’s Death of Empedocles to Nietzsche’s Dying Socrates
Authors: Warnek Peter
Published: August 2014

The paper considers the legacy of Empedocles as it bears upon the difficulty confronted by Hölderlin in his Death of Empedocles: how are we to understand Hölderlin’s failure to complete this ‘mourning play’ despite his continued and repeated efforts? This difficulty is elaborated through a reading of Hölderlin’s own understanding of “elemental tragedy” as it is presented and developed in the three dense so-called Homburg essays on tragedy. It is evident that the understanding of tragedy that emerges here entails a dramatic poetry that would break with the prevailing tradition and its determination of poetry according to a mimetic operation. Aristotle’s own account of Empedocles and his apparent refusal to consider Empedocles as a poet is considered alongside other ancient accounts of Empedoclean poetry, notably those provided by Plutarch, Diogenes Laertius, and Lucretius. In this context, Nietzsche’s account of the end of tragedy through his interpretation of another philosophical death, that of Socrates, is introduced as a counterpoint to help elucidate the difficulties faced by Hölderlin. This Nietzschean account of ‘the image of the dying Socrates’ also proves to be related to Nietzsche’s own brief but provocative statements concerning what is eclipsed with the loss of Empedoclean tragic philosophy and emergence of Socratism. The paper concludes by returning to Hölderlin’s letters to Böhlendorff as these letters make thematic an ‘elemental’ difference in the impossible recovery of the tragic in our time.
Revision of Opeatocerata Melander, 1928 (Diptera: Empididae: Empidinae)
Authors: CÂMARA J. T. , RAFAEL J. A.
Published: August 2014

The species of the Neotropical genus Opeatocerata Melander are revised to include 21 species, with fifteen species described as new: O. agudeloi sp. nov., O. ampullaria sp. nov., O. bare sp. nov., O. brasiliensis sp. nov., O. chaetohypandrialis sp. nov., O. cylindrophallus sp. nov., O. curvipenis sp. nov., O. hadrophallus sp. nov., O. megalophallus sp. nov., O. mourai sp. nov., O. nhamunda sp. nov., O. smithi sp. nov., O. spinipenis sp. nov., O. tanimboca sp. nov. and O. zuleideae sp. nov. All species are described and male and female genitalia illustrated. An identification key and the geographic distributions of the species are also presented.
Coronary Collateral Circulation and Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Authors: Bhatt Hemal , Kochar Suzi , Htun Wah Wah , Julliard Kell , Fernaine George
Published: August 2014

We sought to determine the association of major cardiovascular risk factors and other comorbidities with the presence or absence of coronary collateral (CC) circulation. All electronic medical records from 2010 to 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 563 patients were divided into 2 groups: CC present (180) and CC absent (383). Smoking ( P = .012, odds ratio [OR] 1.58), hypercholesterolemia ( P = .001, OR 2.21), and hypertension ( P = .034, OR 1.75) were associated with the presence of CC. Increasing body mass index (BMI, P = .001) and decreasing estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, P = .042) were associated with the absence of CC. On multivariable linear regression analysis, hypercholesterolemia ( P = .001, OR 2.28), BMI ( P = .012, OR 0.77), and eGFR ( P = .001, OR 0.70) were found to be independently associated with CC. Our findings will help predict patient populations more likely to have presence or absence of CC circulation.
Transforming war supply: Considerations and rationales behind contractor support to UK overseas military operations in the twenty-first century
Authors: Kinsey Christopher
Published: August 2014

Since the end of the Cold War, policymakers and academics alike have examined in great detail every aspect of military operations apart from military contracting. This article surveys key issues that confront United Kingdom (UK) policymakers. It engages with and updates the secondary sources to explain the evolution, role, and implications of military outsourcing for UK overseas operations in the twenty-first century. It explores the politics, rationale, and consequences of outsourcing technical and support services to expeditionary operations. This article provides a framework for a discussion that is becoming increasingly urgent given the UK military's increasing dependence on military contractors to generate fighting and support capabilities on operations. It proceeds in two steps. First, it traces the evolution of military contracting, identifying the different political and economic drivers behind the decision to engage technical and support contractors on operations. Second, it discusses the future implications for the UK military of this decision.
Prospects for the UK Economy
Authors: Kirby Simon , Meaning Jack , Warren James
Published: August 2014

The production of this forecast is supported by the Institute's Corporate Members: Bank of England, HM Treasury, Mizuho Research Institute Ltd, Santander (UK) plc and by the members of the NiGEM users group.
Imperfect Performance
Authors: van der Pennen Ron , Putters Kim , Berden Bart
Published: August 2014

Within the complex context of the Dutch health care system, the Ministry of Health introduced a policy that shows parallels with pay-for-performance (P4P). It enabled hospital boards to differentiate between physicians’ individual wages. This study addresses the following question: What effects did this P4P instrument have on the relationship between hospital boards and physicians? We conclude that it had no positive effects on the relationship but did put it under a considerable degree of stress. Furthermore, its introduction - isolated to the market sphere only - lacked alignment with other spheres, designated as a “value gap.” This study adds empirical findings that P4P leads to inappropriate behavior and should be accompanied by proper side policies.
Stretching middle age: the lessons and labours of active ageing in the makeover show
Authors: Raisborough Jayne , Barnes Marian , Henwood Flis , Ward Lizzie
Published: August 2014

This article responds to the claim that there is a critical neglect of age and ageing across media and television studies. It does so by arguing an exploration of the insights from the fields of critical gerontology/Age Studies and Media Studies allows critical scrutiny of the intersection between populist stereotyping of age, the pedagogic function of the makeover culture, and the prevailing public policy discourses that place responsibility on individuals, notably women, to hold back their old age. This article extends the argument that the pedagogical function of the makeover is to train us into culturally inhabitable bodies, to claim that age shapes what corporeal and cultural dwellings are currently intelligible.
Sonopalpation: A Novel Application of Ultrasound for Detection of Submandibular Calculi
Authors: Patel Nitin J. , Hashemi Sean , Joshi Arjun S.
Published: August 2014

Objective

To study the sensitivity and specificity of physical examination, ultrasound (US) alone, and sonopalpation (concurrent US and transoral palpation) for identification of submandibular gland (SMG) calculi.

Study Design

Case series with prospective data collection.

Setting

Tertiary‐level academic center.

Subject and Methods

Patients with suspected SMG swelling were examined by physical examination, US alone, and sonopalpation. The presence or absence and location of sialolithiasis was noted in each group. Sialendoscopy, open sialolithotomy, or sialadenectomy was performed as the gold standard for definitive diagnosis. Sensitivity and specificity for each technique was then determined.

Results

Sixty‐nine patients were identified with SMG swelling. Physical examination, US, and sonopalpation positively identified sialoliths in 49, 54, and 57 patients, respectively. Fifty‐nine patients eventually demonstrated calculi. Sensitivity of physical examination, US alone, and sonopalpation for SMG calculi was 83%, 91%, and 96.6%, respectively. Specificity for physical examination was 60%, 80% for US alone, and 90% for sonopalpation. Of 59 patients with stones, 17 patients underwent purely endoscopic procedures, 36 patients underwent combined or purely transoral approaches, and 6 underwent sialadenectomy. Of the 3 modalities, only sonopalpation was able to both identify and localize pathology and guide treatment management.

Conclusion

US is effective in the diagnosis and management of SMG stones during sialendoscopy or sialolithotomy. Sonopalpation has increased sensitivity and specificity over US alone or physical examination not only for the detection of SMG calculi but also for localization of pathology in the ductal system.
Civilisation and the Domination of the Animal
Authors: Cudworth Erika , Hobden Stephen
Published: August 2014

Underlying claims about a ‘standard of civilisation’ are questions about what it means to be human. Those that assert membership of a higher civilisation do so on the basis of the extent to which a particular grouping has been able to separate itself and become independent of nature. Such contentions reproduce the duality between the human and non-human nature in that the civilised are considered as separate/superior to the non-civilised, and on the grounds of that superiority have a right of dominion over them in ways that parallel human relations with non-human nature. The process of othering that any claim of civilisation requires thus involves a claim about the less than human status of the other.

Following a brief discussion of posthumanism, we assess the considerable literature on the ‘standard of civilisation’ and, focusing on the language of race, consider the ways in which claims about civilisation are based on notions of a separation from nature. In the third section we assess the implications of such a separation. In the final section we turn the notion of civilisation on its head, by pointing to developments that suggest that those groupings who make the claims to be most separated from nature are those posing the gravest ecological threats.
Implications for Observant Jewish Families in the Provision of Mother’s Own and Donor Milk for Their Very Low Birth Weight Infant
Authors: Kassierer Moshe Yair , O’Connor Deborah L. , Rutherford Eva , Rolnitzky Asaph , Unger Sharon
Published: August 2014

Jewish law recognizes the importance of breast milk, and breastfeeding rates are high among religious mothers. Infants born at very low birth weight are medically fragile, and breast milk is of critical importance for their health protection and optimal growth and development. For observant Jewish infants and their families, there may be scenarios for special consideration in their health care. This report reviews briefly the relevant Jewish laws related to breast milk provision, both mother’s own milk and donor milk, in the neonatal intensive care unit with background information for counseling such families.
Factors Influencing Enrollment in the Medication Therapy Management Clinic at an Academic Ambulatory Care Clinic
Authors: Shah Mansi , Tilton Jessica , Kim Shiyun
Published: August 2014

Purpose:

In 2001, the University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences System (UI Health) established a pharmacist-run, referral-based medication therapy management clinic (MTMC). Referrals are obtained from any UI Health provider or by self-referral. Although there is a high volume of referrals, a large percentage of patients do not enroll. This study was designed to determine the various factors that influence patient enrollment in the MTMC.

Methods:

This study was a retrospective chart review of demographic and patient variable data during years 2010 and 2011. Disabilities, distance from MTMC, mode of transportation, past medical history, and appointment dates were extracted from the medical records. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 103 referrals were made; however, only 17% of patients remain enrolled in MTMC. The baseline demographics included a mean age of 63 years, 68% female, 70% African American, and 81% English speaking. Patients lived an average of 8 miles from MTMC; most utilized public or government-supplemented transport services; 24% of patients reported some type of disability, most commonly utilizing a walker or a wheelchair. On average, patients were prescribed 13 medications with hypertension (70%), diabetes (56%), and hyperlipidemia (48%) being the most common chronic disease states. The reason for referral included medication management, education, medication reconciliation, and disease state management. Five patients were unable to be contacted to schedule an initial appointment. Additionally, 18 patients failed their scheduled initial appointment and did not reschedule. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated distance traveled for clinic visit, age, and history of hypertension affected the probability of patients showing for their appointments (chi-square = 19.7, P < .001).

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that distance from MTMC is the most common barrier in patient enrollment; therefore, strategies to improve patient access are necessary.
Building China: precarious employment among migrant construction workers
Authors: Swider Sarah
Published: August 2014

In China, informal precarious work has exploded and now represents a majority of urban employment. This article explores precarious informal work by presenting a case study of migrant workers in the construction industry. Despite the fact that these workers are all unregistered migrants performing informal construction work, there exists a diversity of labour market situations, working conditions and work relations. This article introduces the concept of ‘employment configuration’ to analyse this diversity and to bring informal workers, who are operating outside of state regulations, back into our industrial labour relations framework. The concept of employment configuration also refocuses our attention from the dyadic worker–employer relationship to the more complex triad of the worker, the employer and the state, shedding light on varying sources of control and exploitation of these migrant workers.
Mobility strategies, ‘mobility differentials’ and ‘transnational exit’: the experiences of precarious migrants in London’s hospitality jobs
Authors: Alberti Gabriella
Published: August 2014

This article explores the patterns of occupational and geographical mobility of migrant hospitality workers, drawing on participatory research in London. It focuses on the ways in which migrants strategize around temporary employment and move across different jobs and locations trying to improve their precarious lives. Combining labour process theory and the perspective of the autonomy of migration the author reviews the concept of ‘mobility power’ as a form of resistance to degrading work. The findings illustrate that, while certain categories of migrants remain trapped in temporary employment, others manage to move on occupationally, develop aspects of their lives beyond work and engage in new migration. The main argument is that, in contrast to mainstream accounts of migrants’ labour market incorporation, migrant temp workers use their transnational exit power to quit bad jobs and defy employers’ assumptions about their availability to work under poor conditions.
An empirical investigation of supply chain management excellence framework in Indian manufacturing industry
Authors: Soni Gunjan , Kodali Rambabu
Published: August 2014

There are no standard constructs or pillars of SCM excellence in literature, based on review of 57 SCM framework articles identified from 21 peer reviewed journals, which revealed that none of the constructs exhibited frequent repetition. This meant that none of the construct can be considered as a standard pillar of SCM. Thus in order to establish pillars of SCM excellence, an empirical investigation is carried out in the Indian manufacturing industry. A survey questionnaire was used to collect responses from the Indian manufacturing industry. The observed variables were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) to find out underlying pillars of SCM excellence. The SCM excellence framework was found to be consisting of nine pillars. The framework of SCM excellence was then subjected to evaluation of reliability of pillars, followed by examining their construct, convergent and discriminant validity. The nine pillars of SCM excellence obtained after PCA, exhibited 204 constructs. Later when the reliability of each pillar was maximized, the number of constructs reduced to 133. The final cronbach's alpha values for these nine pillars ranged from 0.71 to 0.94, which is considered to be a good indicator of reliability of the scale. The examination of convergent and discriminant validity established the SCM excellence framework in Indian manufacturing industry. The study presented in the paper is unique, since such an attempt to derive pillars of SCM excellence, and empirical investigation of SCM excellence framework in Indian manufacturing industry has never been attempted in extant literature.