bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Access Laparoscopic Rectal Resection Versus the Multiport Technique
Authors: Bracale Umberto , Melillo Paolo , Lazzara Fabrizio , Andreuccetti Jacopo , Stabilini Cesare , Corcione Francesco , Pignata Giusto
Published: April 2014

Background. Single-access laparoscopic surgery is not used routinely for the treatment of colorectal disease. The aim of this retrospective cohort study is to compare the results of single-access laparoscopic rectal resection (SALR) versus multiaccess laparoscopic rectal resection with a mean follow-up of 24 months. Methods. This retrospective cohort study enrolled 42 patients. Between January 2010 and June 2012, 21 SALRs were performed. These patients were compared with a group of 21 other patients who had undergone multiport laparoscopic rectal resection. This control group had the same exclusion criteria and patient demographics. Short-term outcomes were reassessed with a mean follow-up of 2 years. Statistical analysis included the Student t test and Fisher’s exact test. Finally, we performed a differential cost analysis between the 2 procedures. Results. Exclusion criteria, patient demographics, and indication for surgery were similar in both groups. The conversion rate was 0% in both groups. There were no intraoperative complications or deaths. Bowel recovery was similar in both groups. No interventions, readmissions, or deaths were recorded at 30 days’ follow-up. At a mean follow-up of 24 months, all the patients with a preoperative diagnosis of cancer are still alive and disease free. Considering the selected 3 items, the mean cost per patient for single-access laparoscopic surgery and multiple-access laparoscopic surgery were estimated as 7213 and 7495 Euros, respectively. Conclusion. We think that SALR could be performed in selected patients by surgeons with high multiport laparoscopic skills. It is compulsory by law to evaluate outcomes and cost-effectiveness by using randomized controlled trials.
SMART designs in cancer research: Past, present, and future
Authors: Kidwell Kelley M
Published: April 2014

Background

Cancer affects millions of people worldwide each year. Patients require sequences of treatment based on their response to previous treatments to combat cancer and fight metastases. Physicians provide treatment based on clinical characteristics, changing over time. Guidelines for these individualized sequences of treatments are known as dynamic treatment regimens (DTRs) where the initial treatment and subsequent modifications depend on the response to previous treatments, disease progression, and other patient characteristics or behaviors. To provide evidence-based DTRs, the Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial (SMART) has emerged over the past few decades.

Purpose

To examine and learn from past SMARTs investigating cancer treatment options, to discuss potential limitations preventing the widespread use of SMARTs in cancer research, and to describe courses of action to increase the implementation of SMARTs and collaboration between statisticians and clinicians.

Conclusion

There have been SMARTs investigating treatment questions in areas of cancer, but the novelty and perceived complexity has limited its use. By building bridges between statisticians and clinicians, clarifying research objectives, and furthering methods work, there should be an increase in SMARTs addressing relevant cancer treatment questions. Within any area of cancer, SMARTs develop DTRs that can guide treatment decisions over the disease history and improve patient outcomes.
La santé des immigrants au Canada : état des connaissances, interventions et enjeux
Authors: Battaglini Alex , Chomienne Marie-Hélène , Plouffe Louise , Torres Sara , van Kemenade Solange
Published: April 2014

Cet article présente une synthèse de recherches en cours présentées dans le cadre du symposium intitulé : « La santé des immigrants au Canada : état des connaissances, interventions et enjeux » organisé par l’Agence de la santé publique du Canada (ASPC). On commence par un portrait général de la santé des immigrants au Canada. On analyse ensuite le rôle des travailleurs communautaires de la santé pour contrer les inégalités de santé pour cette population, et certaines modalités d’adaptation de services de santé pour répondre à la diversité linguistique et culturelle grandissante de la société canadienne. On conclue avec l’initiative sur les collectivités amies des aînés.

Tout au long de ce symposium, les conférenciers ont privilégié une approche axée sur les déterminants de la santé qui vise à améliorer les résultats de santé des populations ciblées et à fournir des services adaptés et à réduire les inégalités de santé. Les présentations en format Power-Point peuvent être consultées sur le site web suivant : http://www.rrasfo.ca/plrs/presentation.html .
A large kindred of pulmonary fibrosis associated with a novel ABCA3 gene variant
Authors: Campo Ilaria , Zorzetto Michele , Mariani Francesca , Kadija Zamir , Morbini Patrizia , Dore Roberto , Kaltenborn Eva , Frixel Sabrina , Zarbock Ralf , Liebisch Gerhard , Hegermann Jan , Wrede Christoph , Griese Matthias , Luisetti Maurizio
Published: April 2014

Background

Interstitial lung disease occurring in children is a condition characterized by high frequency of cases due to genetic aberrations of pulmonary surfactant homeostasis, that are also believed to be responsible of a fraction of familial pulmonary fibrosis. To our knowledge, ABCA3 gene was not previously reported as causative agent of fibrosis affecting both children and adults in the same kindred.

Methods

We investigated a large kindred in which two members, a girl whose interstitial lung disease was first recognized at age of 13, and an adult, showed a diffuse pulmonary fibrosis with marked differences in terms of morphology and imaging. An additional, asymptomatic family member was detected by genetic analysis. Surfactant abnormalities were investigated at biochemical, and genetic level, as well as by cell transfection experiments.

Results

Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid analysis of the patients revealed absence of surfactant protein C, whereas the gene sequence was normal. By contrast, sequence of the ABCA3 gene showed a novel homozygous G > A transition at nucleotide 2891, localized within exon 21, resulting in a glycine to aspartic acid change at codon 964. Interestingly, the lung specimens from the girl displayed a morphologic usual interstitial pneumonitis-like pattern, whereas the specimens from one of the two adult patients showed rather a non specific interstitial pneumonitis-like pattern.

Conclusions

We have detected a large kindred with a novel ABCA3 mutation likely causing interstitial lung fibrosis affecting either young and adult family members. We suggest that ABCA3 gene should be considered in genetic testing in the occurrence of familial pulmonary fibrosis.
Association of serum Clara cell protein CC16 with respiratory infections and immune response to respiratory pathogens in elite athletes
Authors: Kurowski Marcin , Jurczyk Janusz , Jarzębska Marzanna , Moskwa Sylwia , Makowska Joanna S , Krysztofiak Hubert , Kowalski Marek L
Published: April 2014

Background

Respiratory epithelium integrity impairment caused by intensive exercise may lead to exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Clara cell protein (CC16) has anti-inflammatory properties and its serum level reflects changes in epithelium integrity and airway inflammation. This study aimed to investigate serum CC16 in elite athletes and to seek associations of CC16 with asthma or allergy, respiratory tract infections (RTIs) and immune response to respiratory pathogens.

Methods

The study was performed in 203 Olympic athletes. Control groups comprised 53 healthy subjects and 49 mild allergic asthmatics. Serum levels of CC16 and IgG against respiratory viruses and Mycoplasma pneumoniae were assessed. Allergy questionnaire for athletes was used to determine symptoms and exercise pattern. Current versions of ARIA and GINA guidelines were used when diagnosing allergic rhinitis and asthma, respectively.

Results

Asthma was diagnosed in 13.3% athletes, of whom 55.6% had concomitant allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis without asthma was diagnosed in 14.8% of athletes. Mean CC16 concentration was significantly lower in athletes versus healthy controls and mild asthmatics. Athletes reporting frequent RTIs had significantly lower serum CC16 and the risk of frequent RTIs was more than 2-fold higher in athletes with low serum CC16 (defined as equal to or less than 4.99 ng/ml). Athletes had significantly higher anti-adenovirus IgG than healthy controls while only non-atopic athletes had anti-parainfluenza virus IgG significantly lower than controls. In all athletes weak correlation of serum CC16 and anti-parainfluenza virus IgG was present (R = 0.20, p < 0.01). In atopic athletes a weak positive correlations of CC16 with IgG specific for respiratory syncytial virus (R = 0.29, p = 0.009), parainfluenza virus (R = 0.31, p = 0.01) and adenovirus (R = 0.27, p = 0.02) were seen as well.

Conclusions

Regular high-load exercise is associated with decrease in serum CC16 levels. Athletes with decreased CC16 are more susceptible to respiratory infections. Atopy may be an additional factor modifying susceptibility to infections in subjects performing regular high-load exercise.
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy and its associated factors among children at South Wollo Zone Hospitals, Northeast Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Arage Getachew , Tessema Gizachew Assefa , Kassa Hiwot
Published: April 2014

Background

Poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy negatively affects the suppression of viral replication. It increases risks of drug resistance, treatment failure, Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)-related morbidity and mortality among children. This study assessed the level of adherence to antiretroviral therapy and its associated factors among children at hospitals in South Wollo Zone, Northeast Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-infected children in April 2013. A total of 464 children who were taking Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in the hospitals were included. Data were collected using pretested and structured questionnaires using a face-to-face interview method. Descriptive and summary statistics were employed. Bivariate and multiple logistic regressions were computed. Odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were computed to determine the level of significance.

Results

Of the 464 study samples, 440 children with their caregivers were included in the final analysis. A total of 78.6% of the caregivers reported that their children were adherent to antiretroviral therapy in the month prior to the interview. Caregivers' knowledge about antiretroviral treatment [AOR = 2.72(95% CI: 1.82, 5.39)], no current substance use of the caregivers [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 2.21(95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.34, 7.13)], proximity to the health care facility [AOR = 2.31(95% CI: 1.94, 4.63)], if the child knows HIV-positive status [AOR = 3.47(95% CI: 2.10, 6.81)] and caregiver’s educational status [AOR = 0.59(95% CI: 0.21, 0.82)] were significantly and independently associated with adherence of children to antiretroviral therapy.

Conclusion

Adherence of antiretroviral therapy in this study was comparable to other studies conducted in developing countries. Caregiver’s knowledge about antiretroviral therapy, no current use of substances, close proximity to health facilities, and letting child’s know his/her HIV status improves adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Health care providers should educate caregivers about antiretroviral therapy and encourage HIV positive status disclosure to the child.
Novel ZnO microflowers on nanorod arrays: local dissolution-driven growth and enhanced light harvesting in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Lu Hao , Deng Kaimo , Shi Zhiwei , Liu Qiong , Zhu Guobin , Fan Hongtao , Li Liang
Published: April 2014

ZnO nanostructures were manipulated, via a low-temperature solution process, from pure nanorod arrays to complex nanostructures of microflowers on nanorod arrays with adjusted quantities of flowers. We proposed the mechanism of local dissolution-driven growth to rationally discuss the novel growth process. These nanostructures were used as photoanodes in dye-sensitized solar cells. Compared to pure nanorod arrays, the nanorod array-microflower hierarchical structures improved the power conversion efficiency from 0.41% to 0.92%, corresponding to a 124% efficiency increase. The enhancement of the efficiency was mainly ascribed to the synergistic effect of the enhanced surface area for higher dye loading and the improved light harvesting from efficient light scattering. Present results provide a promising route to improve the capability of light-harvesting for ZnO nanorod array-based DSSCs.
Distant-talking speaker identification by generalized spectral subtraction-based dereverberation and its efficient computation
Authors: Zhang Zhaofeng , Wang Longbiao , Kai Atsuhiko
Published: April 2014

Previously, a dereverberation method based on generalized spectral subtraction (GSS) using multi-channel least mean-squares (MCLMS) has been proposed. The results of speech recognition experiments showed that this method achieved a significant improvement over conventional methods. In this paper, we apply this method to distant-talking (far-field) speaker recognition. However, for far-field speech, the GSS-based dereverberation method using clean speech models degrades the speaker recognition performance. This may be because GSS-based dereverberation causes some distortion between clean speech and dereverberant speech. In this paper, we address this problem by training speaker models using dereverberant speech obtained by suppressing reverberation from arbitrary artificial reverberant speech. Furthermore, we propose an efficient computational method for a combination of the likelihood of dereverberant speech using multiple compensation parameter sets. This addresses the problem of determining optimal compensation parameters for GSS. We report the results of a speaker recognition experiment performed on large-scale far-field speech with different reverberant environments to the training environments. The proposed GSS-based dereverberation method achieves a recognition rate of 92.2%, which compares well with conventional cepstral mean normalization with delay-and-sum beamforming using a clean speech model (49.0%) and a reverberant speech model (88.4%). We also compare the proposed method with another dereverberation technique, multi-step linear prediction-based spectral subtraction (MSLP-GSS). The proposed method achieves a better recognition rate than the 90.6% of MSLP-GSS. The use of multiple compensation parameters further improves the speech recognition performance, giving our approach a recognition rate of 93.6%. We implement this method in a real environment using the optimal compensation parameters estimated from an artificial environment. The results show a recognition rate of 87.8% compared with 72.5% for delay-and-sum beamforming using a reverberant speech model.
Forearm pressure distribution during ambulation with elbow crutches: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fischer Jonas , Nüesch Corina , Göpfert Beat , Mündermann Annegret , Valderrabano Victor , Hügle Thomas
Published: April 2014

Background

Increasing numbers of patients require permanent walking aids to maintain mobility. Current elbow crutches are not designed for long-term use, and overuse is often associated with hematoma formation and pain along the forearm. We therefore hypothesized that the highest pressures between the forearm and crutch cuff during walking and stance are located in the ulnar region and that the level of weight-bearing, forearm circumference and kinematic parameters influence peak pressure values and pressure distribution.

Methods

Ten healthy adults participated in a cross-sectional study. A pressure sensor array was attached to the forearm of each participant separating the forearm into four quadrants (lateral, ulnar, intermediate and medial). Measurements were taken during crutch gait and during partial and full weight-bearing stance. A three-dimensional motion analysis system with reflective markers attached to the subject’s body and to the crutches was used to obtain kinematic data.

Results

The mean pressure on the forearm during crutch gait was 37.5 kPa (SD 8.8 kPa). Highest mean pressure values were measured in the ulnar (41.0 kPa, SD 9.6 kPa) and intermediate (38.0 kPa, SD 9.0 kPa) quadrants. The center of pressure was mainly located in an oblique lamellar area in these two quadrants. With increasing weight-bearing on the crutches during stance, we observed a shift of the peak pressures towards the ulnar quadrant. The circumference of the forearm correlated with the peak pressure in the medial and intermediate quadrants during crutch gait (P < 0.05). Peak pressures on the forearm showed a trend towards correlation with crutch abduction, but no association with other kinematic parameters was detected.

Conclusion

The pressure load on the forearm during crutch-assisted gait is located predominantly over the ulna and may be linked to a range of secondary conditions caused by crutch use including hematoma formation and pain.
Fungal allergy in asthma–state of the art and research needs
Authors: Denning David W , Pashley Catherine , Hartl Domink , Wardlaw Andrew , Godet Cendrine , Del Giacco Stefano , Delhaes Laurence , Sergejeva Svetlana
Published: April 2014

Sensitization to fungi and long term or uncontrolled fungal infection are associated with poor control of asthma, the likelihood of more severe disease and complications such as bronchiectasis and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. Modelling suggests that >6.5 million people have severe asthma with fungal sensitizations (SAFS), up to 50% of adult asthmatics attending secondary care have fungal sensitization, and an estimated 4.8 million adults have allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). There is much uncertainty about which fungi and fungal allergens are relevant to asthma, the natural history of sensitisation to fungi, if there is an exposure response relationship for fungal allergy, and the pathogenesis and frequency of exacerbations and complications. Genetic associations have been described but only weakly linked to phenotypes. The evidence base for most management strategies in ABPA, SAFS and related conditions is weak. Yet straightforward clinical practice guidelines for management are required. The role of environmental monitoring and optimal means of controlling disease to prevent disability and complications are not yet clear. In this paper we set out the key evidence supporting the role of fungal exposure, sensitisation and infection in asthmatics, what is understood about pathogenesis and natural history and identify the numerous areas for research studies.
Nation related participation and performance trends in ‘Ironman Hawaii’ from 1985 to 2012
Authors: Dähler Philippe , Rüst Christoph Alexander , Rosemann Thomas , Lepers Romuald , Knechtle Beat
Published: April 2014

Background

This study examined participation and performance trends in ‘Ironman Hawaii’ regarding the nationality of the finishers.

Methods

Associations between nationalities and race times of 39,706 finishers originating from 124 countries in the ‘Ironman Hawaii’ from 1985 to 2012 were analyzed using single and multi-level regression analysis.

Results

Most of the finishers originated from the United States of America (47.5%) followed by athletes from Germany (11.7%), Japan (7.9%), Australia (6.7%), Canada (5.2%), Switzerland (2.9%), France (2.3%), Great Britain (2.0%), New Zealand (1.9%), and Austria (1.5%). German women showed the fastest increase in finishers (r2 = 0.83, p < 0.0001), followed by Australia (r2 = 0.78, p < 0.0001), Canada (r2 = 0.78, p < 0.0001) and the USA (r2 = 0.69, p < 0.0001). Japanese women showed no change in the number of finishers (r2 = 0.01, p > 0.05). For men, athletes from France showed the steepest increase (r2 = 0.85, p < 0.0001), followed by Austria (r2 = 0.68, p < 0.0001), Australia (r2 = 0.67, p < 0.0001), Brazil (r2 = 0.60, p < 0.0001), Great Britain (r2 = 0.46, p < 0.0001), Germany (r2 = 0.26, p < 0.0001), the United States of America (r2 = 0.21, p = 0.013) and Switzerland (r2 = 0.14, p = 0.0044). The number of Japanese men decreased (r2 = 0.35, p = 0.0009). The number of men from Canada (r2 = 0.02, p > 0.05) and New Zealand (r2 = 0.02, p > 0.05) remained unchanged. Regarding female performance, the largest improvements were achieved by Japanese women (17.3%). The fastest race times in 2012 were achieved by US-American women. Women from Japan, Canada, Germany, Australia, and the United States of America improved race times. For men, the largest improvements were achieved by athletes originating from Brazil (20.9%) whereas the fastest race times in 2012 were achieved by athletes from Germany. Race times for athletes originating from Brazil, Austria, Great Britain, Switzerland, Germany, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and France decreased. Race times in athletes originating from Australia and the United States of America showed no significant changes. Regarding the fastest race times ever, the fastest women originated from the United States (546 ± 7 min) followed by Great Britain (555 ± 15 min) and Switzerland (558 ± 8 min). In men, the fastest finishers originated from the United States (494 ± 7 min), Germany (496 ± 6 min) and Australia (497 ± 5 min).

Conclusions

The ‘Ironman Hawaii’ has been dominated by women and men from the United States of America in participation and performance.
Performance on a pattern separation task by Alzheimer’s patients shows possible links between disrupted dentate gyrus activity and apolipoprotein E ∈4 status and cerebrospinal fluid amyloid-β42 levels
Authors: Wesnes Keith A , Annas Peter , Basun Hans , Edgar Chris , Blennow Kaj
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Emerging evidence suggests that decreased adult hippocampal neurogenesis represents an early critical event in the course of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In mice, adult neurogenesis is reduced by knock-in alleles for human apolipoprotein E (ApoE) ∈4. Decreased dentate gyrus (DG) neural progenitor cells proliferation has been observed in the triple-transgenic mouse model of AD (3xTg-AD); this reduction being directly associated with the presence of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and an increase in the number of Aβ-containing neurons in the hippocampus. Cognitive tasks involving difficult pattern separations have been shown to reflect DG activity and thus potentially neurogenesis in both animals and man. This study involved the administration of a pattern separation paradigm to Alzheimer’s patients to investigate relationships between task performance and both ApoE status and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Aβ42 levels.

Methods

The CDR System pattern separation task involves the presentation of pictures that must later be discriminated from closely similar pictures. This paper presents pattern separation data from 66 mild to moderate AD patients, of which 50 were genotyped and 65 in whom CSF Aβ42 was measured.

Results

ApoE ∈4 homozygotes were not compromised on the easy pattern separations compared with the other patients, but they were statistically significantly poorer at the difficult separations. In all patients CSF Aβ42 correlated significantly with the ability to make the difficult discriminations, but not easier discriminations. Pattern separation speed correlated negatively with CSF Aβ42, and thus the association was not due to increased impulsivity.

Conclusions

These are, to our knowledge, the first human pattern separation data to suggest a possible genetic link to poor hippocampal neurogenesis in AD, as well as a relationship to Aβ42. Therapies which target neurogenesis may thus be useful in preventing the early stages of AD, notably in ApoE ∈4 homocygotes.
Fracture parameter inversion for Marcellus Shale
Authors: Far Mehdi E. , Hardage Bob , Wagner Don
Published: April 2014

We inverted P-wave amplitude variation with offset and azimuth (AVOAz) data from the Marcellus Shale to obtain fracture parameters that can fully describe the elastic behavior of fractured rocks with overall symmetry of orthorhombic or monoclinic. AVOAz data from two interfaces, (1) the upper interface between top Marcellus and Stafford limestone and (2) the lower interface between base Marcellus and Onondaga limestone, were used for inversion. To check the validity of our inversion results, fracture parameters for the Marcellus Shale were inverted for each interface using Monte Carlo simulation to include uncertainty in our a priori information, i.e., elastic properties of unfractured rocks that are assumed to be known from well logs. Inversion results appeared robust with respect to uncertainties and converge to the same values for the two inversions. Our results were also consistent with singular value decomposition analysis (resolution matrix).
Prevention and Management of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Survivors of Adult Cancers: American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Hershman Dawn L. , Lacchetti Christina , Dworkin Robert H. , Lavoie Smith Ellen M. , Bleeker Jonathan , Cavaletti Guido , Chauhan Cynthia , Gavin Patrick , Lavino Antoinette , Lustberg Maryam B. , Paice Judith , Schneider Bryan , Smith Mary Lou , Smith Tom , Terstriep Shelby , Wagner-Johnston Nina , Bak Kate , Loprinzi Charles L.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To provide evidence-based guidance on the optimum prevention and treatment approaches in the management of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathies (CIPN) in adult cancer survivors.

Methods

A systematic literature search identified relevant, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for the treatment of CIPN. Primary outcomes included incidence and severity of neuropathy as measured by neurophysiologic changes, patient-reported outcomes, and quality of life.

Results

A total of 48 RCTs met eligibility criteria and comprise the evidentiary basis for the recommendations. Trials tended to be small and heterogeneous, many with insufficient sample sizes to detect clinically important differences in outcomes. Primary outcomes varied across the trials, and in most cases, studies were not directly comparable because of different outcomes, measurements, and instruments used at different time points. The strength of the recommendations is based on the quality, amount, and consistency of the evidence and the balance between benefits and harms.

Recommendations:

On the basis of the paucity of high-quality, consistent evidence, there are no agents recommended for the prevention of CIPN. With regard to the treatment of existing CIPN, the best available data support a moderate recommendation for treatment with duloxetine. Although the CIPN trials are inconclusive regarding tricyclic antidepressants (such as nortriptyline), gabapentin, and a compounded topical gel containing baclofen, amitriptyline HCL, and ketamine, these agents may be offered on the basis of data supporting their utility in other neuropathic pain conditions given the limited other CIPN treatment options. Further research on these agents is warranted.
Electrophysiology of Arcuate Neurokinin B Neurons in Female Tac2-EGFP Transgenic Mice
Authors: Cholanian Marina , Krajewski-Hall Sally J. , Levine Richard B. , McMullen Nathaniel T. , Rance Naomi E.
Published: April 2014

Neurons in the arcuate nucleus that coexpress kisspeptin, neurokinin B (NKB), and dynorphin (KNDy neurons) play an important role in the modulation of reproduction by estrogens. Here, we study the anatomical and electrophysiological properties of arcuate NKB neurons in heterozygous female transgenic mice with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under the control of the Tac2 (NKB) promoter (Tac2-EGFP mice). The onset of puberty, estrous cyclicity, and serum LH were comparable between Tac2-EGFP and wild-type mice. The location of EGFP-immunoreactive neurons was consistent with previous descriptions of Tac2 mRNA-expressing neurons in the rodent. In the arcuate nucleus, nearly 80% of EGFP neurons expressed pro-NKB-immunoreactivity. Moreover, EGFP fluorescent intensity in arcuate neurons was increased by ovariectomy and reduced by 17β-estradiol (E2) treatment. Electrophysiology of single cells in tissue slices was used to examine the effects of chronic E2 treatment on Tac2-EGFP neurons in the arcuate nucleus of ovariectomized mice. Whole-cell recordings revealed arcuate NKB neurons to be either spontaneously active or silent in both groups. E2 had no significant effect on the basic electrophysiological properties or spontaneous firing frequencies. Arcuate NKB neurons exhibited either tonic or phasic firing patterns in response to a series of square-pulse current injections. Notably, E2 reduced the number of action potentials evoked by depolarizing current injections. This study demonstrates the utility of the Tac2-EGFP mouse for electrophysiological and morphological studies of KNDy neurons in tissue slices. In parallel to E2 negative feedback on LH secretion, E2 decreased the intensity of the EGFP signal and reduced the excitability of NKB neurons in the arcuate nucleus of ovariectomized Tac2-EGFP mice.
Foot sling for the treatment of diurnal leg oedema: effect due to foot muscle pump stimulation?
Authors: Reich-Schupke S. , Selanski-Porto P. , Altmeyer P. , Stücker M. , Doerler M.
Published: April 2014

Hintergrund und Design: Prospektive Pilot-fallserie zur Beurteilung der Effektivität, Verträglichkeit und Einfachheit der Anwendung einer neuartigen Fußschlinge (Stimfeet) zur Behandlung von habituellen Beinödemen.

Patienten und Methoden: Eingeschlossen wurden acht Patientinnen mit nachweisbarer prätibialer Dellenbildung bei habituellen Beinödemen. Hämodynamisch relevante Refluxe oder Obstruktionen der Beinvenen wurden duplexsonographisch ausgeschlossen. Die Patientinnen erhielten eine einwöchige ganztägige Behandlung mit medizinischen Kompressionsstrümpfen (MKS) bis zum Knie (18–23 mmHg) und nach zweitägiger Pause mit Stimfeet (maximal vier Stunden ohne Unterbrechung) oder umgekehrt. Vor und nach jeder Behandlungswoche erfolgten jeweils zwei wasserplethysmographische Volumenmessungen pro Bein. Mittels standardisierter Fragebögen wurden die Effektivität, Verträglichkeit und Einfachheit der Anwendung evaluiert. In einem Patiententagebuch wurden die Nebenwirkungen dokumentiert.

Ergebnisse: MKS führten zu einer größeren Volumenreduktion (mittleres Δ rechts: 39,00 g, links: 24,44 g) verglichen mit Stimfeet (mittleres Δ rechts: 5,06 g, links: 2,81 g). Die Ergebnisse unterschieden sich jedoch nicht signifikant (t-test: rechts: p=0,55, links: p=0,63). In Bezug auf weniger Einschränkung (n=5), Komfort (n=6), Reduktion der Symptome (n=5), Verbesserung der Lebensqualität (n=5), Verbesserung der Arbeitsbedingungen (n=5) und den Erwartungen entsprechend (n=5) bevorzugten mehr Patientinnen den MKS. Die Einfachheit der Anwendung wurde gleich bewertet. Die am häufigsten dokumentierten Nebenwirkungen von Stimfeet waren Druck- und Schürfstellen (n=6) und Verrutschen/Notwendigkeit der Fixierung (n=5).

Schlussfolgerung: MKS waren der neuartigen Fußschlinge in der Behandlung habitueller Beinödeme überlegen. Bei einer Minderheit der Patientinnen führte die neuartige Fußschlinge jedoch zur Besserung der Beschwerden und Ödemreduktion. Die Wirksamkeit wird möglicherweise durch eine Stimulation der Fußmuskelpumpe bedingt. Methoden zur Aktivierung der Fußmuskelpumpe stellen eine neue Therapieoption für die Behandlung von Beinödemen dar.
La parodia como evaluación: acerca del sketch televisivo en español
Authors: Ruiz Gurillo Leonor
Published: April 2014

En este artículo se analiza un sketch televisivo, procedente del programa Saturday Night Live español. El sketch es un tipo de parodia muy relacionada con la sátira (Simpson, 2003:123). Como texto humorístico, se observan los rasgos de la sátira y de la parodia como tal. El repaso a la bibliografía sobre humor y en especial de la General Theory of Verbal Humor —GTVH— (Attardo, 2001a y 2008) permite contemplar las diversas fuentes de conocimiento propuestas desde la situación de la parodia y determinar que es el blanco de la burla la más importante. La discusión teórica se completa con el examen de diversas teorías sobre la sátira y la parodia, como las de Rossen-Knill & Henry, 1997; Pueo, 2002; Simpson, 2003. Todo ello conduce a la idea de que en la parodia el elemento primordial es el acto cómico. Para lograrlo, el hablante o escritor emplea diversos elementos evaluativos. Así, en primer lugar, se examina la evaluación como parte de la narración (Labov y Waletzky, 1967). Ahora bien, dicha concepción de evaluación ha de ser completada necesariamente con la que la entiende como procedimiento (Kotthoff, 2003; Partington, 2007 y 2011). En este caso, tanto las marcas (elementos kinésicos, sonrisa,…) como los indicadores del humor (fraseología, polisemia, pseudoabarcadores,…) son elementos evaluativos.
De la cognición al discurso: el efecto de la prominencia cognitiva y la informatividad textual en el estudio de la variación de los sujetos pronominales
Authors: Serrano María José
Published: April 2014

La prominencia cognitiva se basa en el proceso de atención, modelado en términos de activación mental de estructuras conceptuales. Por su parte, el concepto de informatividad se relaciona con el nivel de procesamiento mental que requiere un texto en función del grado de novedad o de imprevisibilidad que tiene para sus receptores. De acuerdo con ello, en español, la variación entre la expresión (preverbal y posverbal) y la omisión del sujeto (Yo vengo/ Ø vengo) puede ser una manifestación formal de las variaciones en la prominencia cognitiva de los referentes. La idea de que la informatividad textual guarda cierta relación con la colocación de las unidades en la cláusula puede aplicarse al estudio de la posición preverbal o posverbal del sujeto pronominal (Yo vengo/Vengo yo). Bajo una metodología cualitativa, se considera que estas posibilidades variables, fundamentadas cognitivamente y que ofrecen posibilidades para la construcción de un significado socioestilístico, constituyen uno de los objetivos del enfoque que aplicamos para el estudio de la variación en los sujetos pronominales en español.
Sobre la forma muncho
Authors: Pato Enrique
Published: April 2014

La presente nota aporta luz nueva sobre la historia y la evolución de muncho en español. En primer lugar, los ejemplos presentados confirman que estamos ante un fenómeno antiguo, documentado en el mismo latín, y característico del español clásico. Estudiamos la variación que ha mantenido con la forma estándar mucho a lo largo de la historia y, gracias a los datos del ALPI y del COSER, damos a conocer su extensión geográfica. La –n– parasitaria se documenta también en otras lenguas y dialectos romances, como el asturiano y los dialectos septentrionales italianos, así como históricamente en francés. Por último, revisamos el origen latino (muntum) y presentamos varios ejemplos de su extensión a otras palabras en español moderno.
Private Manning and the Chamber of Secrets
Authors: Cloud Dana L.
Published: April 2014

This article explores news coverage from 2010–2013 of Chelsea (formerly known as Bradley) Manning’s disclosures of both state and gender secrets to discover how government actors, journalists, and social movement leaders disciplined emergent truths in two modalities. The first modality is juridical, involving Manning’s trial and reporting that focuses attention exclusively on Manning’s crime against the state; the second is biopolitical, disciplining Manning by discrediting her body and voice as troubled, confused, damaged, weak, irrational, and pathological. That Manning’s disclosures resulted in repressive and discursive discipline does not mean that such an outcome was inevitable. Rather than abandoning disclosure as a democratic project, we might ask ourselves how the rhetorical process of disclosure might open up a contradictory publicity that critically exposes the complexity of discipline itself.
Spectrum of quantum dynamical systems: Subsystems and entropy
Authors: Khare Mona , Shukla Anurag
Published: April 2014

In the present paper, we have studied quantum dynamical systems of difference posets, their equivalence, subsystems and spectra. It is shown that every subsystem of a mixing quantum dynamical system is mixing, and also a bounded spectrum of quantum dynamical systems has its supremum, and all such suprema are equivalent. Entropy of subsystems of a quantum dynamical system of orthomodular lattices is also investigated.
Experimental Study of Fault Arc Protection Based on UV Pulse Method in High Voltage Switchgear
Authors: Wang Jingang , Xu Cheng , Sun Jiaxiang
Published: April 2014

Based on the relationship between electrical equipment discharge and ultraviolet radiation, this paper proposed the use of UV pulse method to detect switchgear arcing faults. Switchgear protection system based on this new technique detects arcing faults by analyzing the ultraviolet produced by electric arc. This technique was implemented and tested in laboratory, and the performance of the protection module was verified: it is capable of calculating the number of UV pulses quickly and precisely, which indicates the intensity of fault arc, and therefore it can be applied to arcing faults protection system for detecting faults.
Hybrid Harmony Search Algorithm and Interior Point Method for Economic Dispatch with Valve-Point Effect
Authors: Sivasubramani S. , Ahmad Md. Samar
Published: April 2014

This paper proposes a new hybrid algorithm combining harmony search (HS) algorithm and interior point method (IPM) for economic dispatch (ED) problem with valve-point effect. ED problem with valve-point effect is modeled as a non-linear, constrained and non-convex optimization problem having several local minima. IPM is a best non-linear optimization method for convex optimization problems. Since ED problem with valve-point effect has multiple local minima, IPM results in a local optimum solution. In order to avoid IPM getting trapped in a local optimum, a new evolutionary algorithm HS, which is good in global exploration, has been combined. In the hybrid method, HS is used for global search and IPM for local search. The hybrid method has been tested on three different test systems to prove its effectiveness. Finally, the simulation results are also compared with other methods reported in the literature.
Kinetic and Kinematic Analysis for Assessing the Differences in Countermovement Jump Performance in Rugby Players
Authors: Floría Pablo , Gómez-Landero Luis A. , Suárez-Arrones Luis , Harrison Andrew J.
Published: April 2014

Floría, P, Gómez-Landero, LA, Suárez-Arrones, L, and Harrison, AJ. Kinetic and kinematic analysis for assessing the differences in countermovement jump performance in rugby players. J Strength Cond Res 30(9): 2533–2539, 2016—The aim of this study was to ascertain the differences in kinetic and kinematic profiles between better and poorer performers of the vertical jump within a homogeneous group of trained adults. Fifty rugby players were divided into low scoring (LOW) and high scoring (HIGH) groups based on their performance in the vertical jump. The force, velocity, displacement, and rate of force development (RFD)-time curves were analyzed to determine the differences between groups. The analysis of the data showed differences in all the patterns of the ensemble mean curves of the HIGH and LOW groups. During the eccentric phase, the differences in the HIGH group with respect to the LOW group were lower crouch position, higher downward velocity, and higher force and RFD during the braking of the downward movement. During the concentric phase, the HIGH group achieved higher upward velocity, higher force at the end of phase, and a higher position at takeoff. The higher jump performances seem to be related to a more effective stretch-shortening cycle function that is characterized by a deeper and faster countermovement with higher eccentric forces being applied to decelerate the downward movement leading to enhanced force generation during the concentric phase.
French Military Ethnography in Colonial Upper Tonkin (Northern Vietnam), 1897–1904
Authors: Michaud Jean
Published: April 2014

This article narrates a remarkable endeavor, a venture into the colonial ethnography of borderland mountain societies of today’s northern Vietnam, then upland Tonkin, from the unlikely cultural perspective of the military. This venture, commissioned by Governors Generals Paul Doumer and Paul Beau, was conducted a little over a century ago, yielding over four thousand manuscript pages penned by seventy different authors.First, I consider the logic of the militarization of the northern borderlands at the end of the nineteenth century, a strategic policy that triggered the launch of two surveys in 1897 and 1903. I then examine the methods used in the performance of these surveys and, building upon material from the original documents, I comment on the mindset of the officers who performed this task and on the strength of this material for anthropological research today.
Social Media Methods for Studying Rare Diseases
Authors: Schumacher Kurt R. , Stringer Kathleen A. , Donohue Janet E. , Yu Sunkyung , Shaver Ashley , Caruthers Regine L. , Zikmund-Fisher Brian J. , Fifer Carlen , Goldberg Caren , Russell Mark W.
Published: April 2014

For pediatric rare diseases, the number of patients available to support traditional research methods is often inadequate. However, patients who have similar diseases cluster “virtually” online via social media. This study aimed to (1) determine whether patients who have the rare diseases Fontan-associated protein losing enteropathy (PLE) and plastic bronchitis (PB) would participate in online research, and (2) explore response patterns to examine social media’s role in participation compared with other referral modalities. A novel, internet-based survey querying details of potential pathogenesis, course, and treatment of PLE and PB was created. The study was available online via web and Facebook portals for 1 year. Apart from 2 study-initiated posts on patient-run Facebook pages at the study initiation, all recruitment was driven by study respondents only. Response patterns and referral sources were tracked. A total of 671 respondents with a Fontan palliation completed a valid survey, including 76 who had PLE and 46 who had PB. Responses over time demonstrated periodic, marked increases as new online populations of Fontan patients were reached. Of the responses, 574 (86%) were from the United States and 97 (14%) were international. The leading referral sources were Facebook, internet forums, and traditional websites. Overall, social media outlets referred 84% of all responses, making it the dominant modality for recruiting the largest reported contemporary cohort of Fontan patients and patients who have PLE and PB. The methodology and response patterns from this study can be used to design research applications for other rare diseases.
Variations in Measurement of Sexual Activity Based on EHR Definitions
Authors: Berlan Elise D. , Ireland Andrea M. , Morton Suzanne , Byron Sepheen C. , Canan Benjamin D. , Kelleher Kelly J.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this study was to compare the performance of 4 operational definitions of sexual activity by using data electronically abstracted from electronic health records (EHRs) and examine how documentation of Chlamydia screening and positivity vary according to definition of sexual activity.

METHODS:

Extracts were created from EHRs of adolescent females 12 to 19 years old who had ≥1 visit to a primary care practice during 2011 at 4 US pediatric health care organizations. We created 4 definitions of sexual activity derived from electronically abstracted indicator variables. Percent sexually active, documentation of Chlamydia screening, and rate of positive Chlamydia test results per 1000 adolescent females according to the sexual activity definition were calculated.

RESULTS:

The most commonly documented individual indicator of sexual activity was “patient report of being sexually active” (mean across 4 sites: 19.2%). The percentage of adolescent females classified as sexually active varied by site and increased as more indicator variables were included. As the definition of sexual activity expanded, the percentage of sexually active females who received at least 1 Chlamydia test decreased. Using a broader definition of sexual activity resulted in improved identification of adolescent females with Chlamydia infection. For each sexual activity definition and performance item, the difference was statistically significant (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Information about sexual activity may be gathered from a variety of data sources, and changing the configurations of these indicators results in differences in the percentage of adolescent females classified as sexually active, screened for Chlamydia infection, and Chlamydia infection rates.
Postmarketing Trials and Pediatric Device Approvals
Authors: Hwang Thomas J. , Kesselheim Aaron S. , Bourgeois Florence T.
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND:

Medical devices can be useful in a variety of diseases, but few devices have been specifically approved for use in children. The 2007 Pediatric Medical Device Safety and Improvement Act was passed to stimulate pediatric device development. The current state of trial evidence underpinning the approval of pediatric devices remains poorly described.

METHODS:

We identified all high-risk (ie, class III) devices approved through the premarket approval or humanitarian device exemption pathways for therapeutic use in children between 2008 and 2011. We collected key information on clinical trial design (randomization, blinding, controls, and types of end points) as well as age distribution of trial participants. We also identified US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–mandated postmarketing trials.

RESULTS:

Twenty-two devices were approved for use in children via the premarket approval pathway and 3 via the humanitarian device exemption pathway. Twenty-two (88%) qualified as pediatric despite minimum approval ages of ≥18 years (the FDA Center for Devices and Radiologic Health considers patients 18–21 years old as pediatric). Most devices were approved on the basis of nonrandomized (59%), open-label (68%) studies with surrogate effectiveness end points (86%). Overall, 21 (84%) devices were not studied in any patients <18 years of age. Postmarketing studies were mandated by the FDA for 19 (76%) devices, although only 3 (18%) required enrollment of pediatric patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

Most high-risk pediatric devices are approved on the basis of trials in patients ≥18 years old, with few pediatric patients exposed to the devices before market availability. Few postmarketing studies require additional study in pediatric patients.
What pathomechanisms can lead to stroke in obstructive sleep apnea?
Authors: Magyar Mária Tünde
Published: April 2014

One of the less well-documented, potentially modifiable stroke risk factor is the obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea increases cardivascular morbidity and mortality, including stroke risk. The article summarizes the pathophysiological factors in sleep apnea syndrome which can increase stroke risk. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(16), 615–619.