bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender differences in HIV risk behaviors in individuals recently released from prison: results of a pilot study
Authors: Zhu Gefei A , Birnbaum Nathan , Carroll-Scott Amy , Evans Linda , Fiellin Lynn E , Wang Emily A
Published: March 2015

Background

Individuals recently released from prison engage in risky behaviors that predispose them to contracting HIV. Women may be at increased risk in the immediate period post-release, given higher rates of poverty, food insecurity, and substance dependence and lower educational attainment compared with men.

Methods

We describe gender differences in HIV risk behaviors using validated measures and assess potential mediators of this relationship using data from a cross-sectional study of 109 individuals recently released from prison.

Results

Women had higher rates of HIV drug-related risk behaviors compared with men (mean score 2.72 vs. 0.068; p = .003) and HIV sex-related risk behaviors (mean score 4.32 vs. 2.31; p = .016). Women also had higher mean incomes and severity of drug and alcohol use compared with men, but equally high rates of food insecurity and low levels of AIDS knowledge. In multivariate analysis, the relationship between gender and HIV drug-related and sex-related risk behaviors was attenuated by a greater monthly income ([drug] adjusted β 0.82, 95% CI -1.02 – 2.66, p = 0.38; [sex] adjusted β 0.75, 95% CI -1.04 – 2.54, p = 0.41), as well as severity of drug use ([drug] adjusted β 0.79, 95% CI -0.55 – 2.13, p = 0.24; [sex] adjusted β 0.09, 95% CI -1.17 – 1.35, p = 0.89).

Conclusions

Women had higher rates of HIV risk behaviors compared with men post-release. Gender specific interventions may be useful in reducing risky drug-related and sex-related behaviors in the period immediately following release.
Efficient 2.5D electromagnetic modeling using boundary integral equations
Authors: Dyatlov Gleb , Onegova Elizaveta , Dashevsky Yuliy
Published: March 2015

Fast and accurate simulation of responses of logging-while-drilling (LWD) electromagnetic (EM) tools in complex 2D and 3D formations is very important for reconstruction of the resistivity distribution in proactive geosteering. Currently, real-time interpretation is based on the 1D parametric inversion. Advances in fast simulation beyond the 1D model would open a way for real-time 2D inversion. We developed, implemented numerically, and tested an efficient method for simulation of LWD EM tools in complex 2D formations with an arbitrary 3D position of the tool. The method is based on the boundary integral equations for the tangential components of the field and the Fourier transform, which reduces the problem to a series of 1D integral equations. Computations are carried out simultaneously for the whole set of measurement points with the same matrix, which provides a short computation time per point. We verified the method by comparing our results with those obtained by the well-known explicit 1D method and by commercial software in the 2D case. Numerical results justified that the method is accurate and time efficient. Also, as an example, we simulated the signals of real propagation and azimuthal resistivity tools for a complex 2D formation model with fault. The software based on our method can be useful in planning geosteering jobs in complex formations.
Variable source depth acquisition for improved marine broadband seismic data
Authors: Haavik Kjetil E. , Landrø Martin
Published: March 2015

In marine seismic data acquisition, varying the source depth along a sail line gives diversity in sequential shot gather frequency spectra. Undesired alterations of the frequency spectra are created by the source ghost and by air-gun bubble oscillations. By deliberately varying the source depth along a sail line, it is possible to obtain a seismic data set that will have energy more evenly distributed within the main frequency band of the source output. This is obtained when data acquired with different source depths are stacked in imaging. We formulated a simple inverse problem that seeks to find the optimal distribution of source depths over a sequential series of shots that shape the amplitude spectrum of the final image into a desired shape. We assumed that the data are receiver-side deghosted, that designature could be applied to each shot gather, and that the shot gathers could be redatumed to a common datum prior to imaging.
The embedded-bound method for estimating the change in rock moduli under pore fill and mineral phase substitution
Authors: Saxena Nishank , Mavko Gary
Published: March 2015

We extended the embedded bound method to the calculation of the exact change in effective shear modulus of a two-phase material under fluid or solid substitution. Except for points lying on the upper or lower Hashin-Shtrikman bounds, the change in effective modulus upon replacing the pore-fill and/or the mineral with another is not unique unless detailed information is available about the microstructure. The reason is that points falling between the bounds can be realized by an infinite number of different microgeometries. Each one transforms to a slightly different modulus upon substitution. We have also developed equations for the calculation of fluid and solid substitution of the mineral and the pore-fill material for bulk and shear moduli. Using laboratory measurements and numerical simulation data, we determined that the predictions of the embedded bound method describe the possible range of change in rock moduli upon substitution.
Development and application of a robust chronostratigraphic framework in Gulf of Mexico Mesozoic exploration
Authors: Olson Hilary Clement , Snedden John W. , Cunningham Robert
Published: March 2015

Renewed interest in Mesozoic exploration, onshore and offshore, in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) has precipitated a new look at Mesozoic biostratigraphy and how these age-diagnostic bioevents can help to establish a sequence-stratigraphic framework for the basin. We have developed a new chronostratigraphic framework, primarily founded on biostratigraphic age-diagnostic data, specifically developed for Mesozoic strata of the GOM basin. Our goal was to provide a systematic and consistent framework that serves as a reference for the order and timing of depositional sequences and key surfaces in the GOM Mesozoic stratigraphic section. The new chronostratigraphic framework was based on (1) our work delineating significant physical stratigraphic surfaces from seismic and well-log data in the GOM, (2) Mesozoic biostratigraphic data from 202 onshore and offshore wells in the GOM, and (3) published literature from the GOM and other studies. The chronostratigraphic framework was formalized in an online Mesozoic biostratigraphy table and summarized in a Mesozoic stratigraphy chart. The use of the framework was key to our ability to correlate within the GOM basin, and we evaluated several examples of seismic and well-log interpretation using the new chronostratigraphic framework, including onshore-offshore correlation, identification and correlation of source rocks, and interpretation of structural anomalies. These examples illustrated how the chronostratigraphic framework enabled us to reduce uncertainty in identifying and correlating Mesozoic units from land to the deepwater GOM basin. The framework also allowed us to better compare our work with other research groups, within academia and industry, and permitted a higher level of integration of work and comments from various applied industry workers.
The Ovary Is an Alternative Site of Origin for High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer in Mice
Authors: Kim Jaeyeon , Coffey Donna M. , Ma Lang , Matzuk Martin M.
Published: March 2015

Although named “ovarian cancer,” it has been unclear whether the cancer actually arises from the ovary, especially for high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), also known as high-grade serous ovarian cancer, the most common and deadliest ovarian cancer. In addition, the tumor suppressor p53 is the most frequently mutated gene in HGSC. However, whether mutated p53 can cause HGSC remains unknown. In this study, we bred a p53 mutation, p53R172H, into conditional Dicer-Pten double-knockout (DKO) mice, a mouse model duplicating human HGSC, to generate triple-mutant (TKO) mice. Like DKO mice, these TKO mice develop metastatic HGSCs originating from the fallopian tube. Unlike DKO mice, however, even after fallopian tubes are removed in TKO mice, ovaries alone can develop metastatic HGSCs, indicating that a p53 mutation can drive HGSC arising from the ovary. To confirm this, we generated p53R172H-Pten double-mutant mice, one of the genetic control lines for TKO mice. As anticipated, these double-mutant mice also develop metastatic HGSCs from the ovary, verifying the HGSC-forming ability of ovaries with a p53 mutation. Our study therefore shows that ovaries harboring a p53 mutation, as well as fallopian tubes, can be a distinct tissue source of high-grade serous ovarian cancer in mice.
Adiponectin-Mediated Antilipotoxic Effects in Regenerating Pancreatic Islets
Authors: Ye Risheng , Wang Miao , Wang Qiong A. , Scherer Philipp E.
Published: March 2015

Pathways that stimulate β-cell regeneration remain of great clinical interest, yet effective therapeutic avenues that promote survival or reconstitution of β-cell mass remain elusive. Using a mouse model with inducible β-cell apoptosis followed by adiponectin-mediated regeneration, we aimed to identify key molecules boosting β-cell viability. In the regenerating pancreatic islets, we examined changes within the transcriptome and observed an extensive up-regulation of genes encoding proteins involved in lipid transport and metabolism. The most prominent targets were further confirmed by quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence. Among the upstream regulators predicted by pathway analysis of the transcriptome, we detected enhanced levels of 2 key transcription factors, Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4α and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptorα. Our data suggest that improving pancreatic islet lipid metabolism as an important antilipotoxic phenomenon to boost β-cell regeneration. This is primarily mediated by the adipokine adiponectin that exerts its action on both the beta-cell directly as well as on the adipocyte. Adiponectin induces lipid metabolism gene expression in regenerating islets through Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4α and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptorα. Adiponectin also modulates leptin levels via preserving adipose tissue mass in the insulinopenic state.
ILDR1 deficiency causes degeneration of cochlear outer hair cells and disrupts the structure of the organ of Corti: a mouse model for human DFNB42
Authors: Sang Qing , Li Wen , Xu Yao , Qu Ronggui , Xu Zhigang , Feng Ruizhi , Jin Li , He Lin , Li Huawei , Wang Lei
Published: March 2015

Immunoglobulin-like domain containing receptor 1 (ILDR1) is a poorly characterized gene that was first identified in lymphoma cells. Mutations in ILDR1 are responsible for DFNB42, but the pathogenesis of hearing loss caused by ILDR1 mutations remains to be elucidated. To explore the role of ILDR1 in hearing, we created Ildr1 knockout mice. In heterozygous mice, ILDR1 expression was found in outer hair cells (OHCs) and inner hair cells (IHCs) of the organ of Corti. ILDR1-deficient mice are profoundly deaf by postnatal day 21 (P21). No significant difference was observed in the supporting cells and IHCs of ILDR1-deficient mice, but progressive degeneration of OHCs occurred at P15 and disruption of the tunnel running through the organ of Corti was noticeable at P21. By P28, there were no OHCs visible in any of the turns of the organ of Corti, and the tunnel of the organ of Corti was entirely destroyed. ILDR1 deficiency affects expression of tricellulin in vivo, and this provides a possible explanation to hearing loss. To further elucidate the mechanism of deafness related to ILDR1 deficiency, we pursued a differential proteomic approach to comprehensively assess differential protein expression in the cochleae of Ildr1+/− and Ildr1−/− mice at P21. Altogether, 708 proteins were up-regulated (fold change >1.5) and 114 proteins were down-regulated (fold change <0.5) in the Ildr1−/− mice compared with Ildr1+/− mice. Gene ontology classification indicated that a number of differentially expressed proteins are involved in cell adhesion, protein and vesicle-mediated transport, cell death, membrane organization, and cellular homeostasis. A few of these proteins are closely related to hearing development. Taken together, our data suggest that ILDR1 is important for the survival of OHCs and provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of human deafness DFNB42 deafness.
Bridging the gap between postembryonic cell lineages and identified embryonic neuroblasts in the ventral nerve cord ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Birkholz Oliver , Rickert Christof , Nowak Julia , Coban Ivo C. , Technau Gerhard M.
Published: March 2015

The clarification of complete cell lineages, which are produced by specific stem cells, is fundamental for understanding mechanisms, controlling the generation of cell diversity and patterning in an emerging tissue. In the developing Central Nervous System (CNS) of Drosophila, neural stem cells (neuroblasts) exhibit two periods of proliferation: During embryogenesis they produce primary lineages, which form the larval CNS. After a phase of mitotic quiescence, a subpopulation of them resumes proliferation in the larva to give rise to secondary lineages that build up the CNS of the adult fly. Within the ventral nerve cord (VNC) detailed descriptions exist for both primary and secondary lineages. However, while primary lineages have been linked to identified neuroblasts, the assignment of secondary lineages has so far been hampered by technical limitations. Therefore, primary and secondary neural lineages co-existed as isolated model systems. Here we provide the missing link between the two systems for all lineages in the thoracic and abdominal neuromeres. Using the Flybow technique, embryonic neuroblasts were identified by their characteristic and unique lineages in the living embryo and their further development was traced into the late larval stage. This comprehensive analysis provides the first complete view of which embryonic neuroblasts are postembryonically reactivated along the anterior/posterior-axis of the VNC, and reveals the relationship between projection patterns of primary and secondary sublineages.
An Origin of Complicated Infrared Spectra of Perfluoroalkyl Compounds Involving a Normal Alkyl Group
Authors: Hasegawa Takeshi , Shimoaka Takafumi , Tanaka Yuki , Shioya Nobutaka , Morita Kohei , Sonoyama Masashi , Amii Hideki , Takagi Toshiyuki , Kanamori Toshiyuki
Published: March 2015

Perfluoroalkyl (Rf) compounds containing a normal alkyl group often yield highly complicated infrared (IR) spectra especially in the C–F stretching vibration (νC–F) region. To reveal the reason behind this, the IR p-polarized multiple-angle incidence resolution spectrometry (pMAIRS) is employed to measure a monolayer of CF3(CF2)9(CH2)3COOH deposited on a silicon substrate. The compound is known to spontaneously aggregate to form a molecular assembly with the closest packing, in which the molecules are oriented perpendicular to the substrate. The IR pMAIRS spectra apparently prove that the complexity of the νC–F region is due to the normal alkyl part directly connected to the Rf group because the carbons in the Rf group are vibrated as a coupled oscillator, and the oscillation of the alkyl part propagates to the Rf part along the molecular axis.
Special consideration
Authors: Chima Jugjit
Published: March 2015

There can be any number of reasons that exam candidates may be eligible for ‘special consideration’. Jugjit Chima looks at the criteria
The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) and parasite protection for the travelling pet
Authors: Stokes Laura , Wright Ian
Published: March 2015

Changes to the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) has led to renewed interest in the scheme and concern surrounding pet travel. In addition to the new rules, the distribution of parasites not covered by the scheme are also changing and it is vital for veterinary professionals to keep up to date, not only with new legal requirements, but also the parasite prevention requirements of pets travelling abroad. Veterinary nurses play a vital role in giving pet travel advice, both in day-to-day interaction with clients and as part of organised travel clinics. This article discusses a practical approach both to the compulsory requirements of the scheme but also other parasite prevention that should be considered.
The nurse's role in the management of equine limb wounds
Authors: Pritchard Phillippa
Published: March 2015

This article will address the nurse's role in wound management, specifically of the limbs. This will include a quick revision of wound healing, factors affecting wound healing, types of wounds, dressing limbs and factors to consider when dressing the equine limb. It will also touch on the differences in healing between horses and ponies and help to relate the factors affecting wound healing to certain types of wounds.
Conservative management of aortic arch injury following penetrating trauma
Authors: Mohammed RK , Cheung S , Parikh SP , Asgaria K
Published: March 2015

Aortic arch injuries following penetrating trauma are typically lethal events with high mortality rates. Traditionally, the standard of care for patients presenting with penetrating injury and aortic involvement has included surgical intervention. We report the case of a 31-year-old man who was managed non-operatively after sustaining multiple stab wounds to the left chest and presenting with mid aortic arch injury.
Two cases of Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess necessitating liver resection for effective treatment
Authors: Maybury B , Powell-Chandler A , Kumar N
Published: March 2015

We report two British cases of liver abscess, due to Klebsiella pneumoniae and associated with synchronous infection elsewhere, which required liver resection for definitive treatment. They illustrate the geographic spread of aggressive K pneumoniae liver infection and demonstrate the importance of early aggressive treatment.
Delay in diagnosis and lessons learnt from a case of abdominal wall abscess caused by fishbone perforation
Authors: Hakeem A , Shanmugam V , Badrinath K , Dube M , Panto P
Published: March 2015

Complications following foreign body (FB) ingestion are an uncommon clinical problem. A 59-year-old man presented with a 4-week history of left iliac fossa pain and 1 episode of dark red blood mixed with stools. Inflammatory markers were elevated, and computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis showed an ill defined abdominal wall inflammatory collection in close contact with the small bowel loops. He was treated with antibiotics, and follow-up CT, colonoscopy and small bowel enema were mostly unremarkable.

The patient presented again ten months later with left iliac fossa cellulitis and fever. Multiplanar CT (the patient’s fourth scan) demonstrated a 10cm abdominal wall collection with a linear hyperdense structure in the collection. The radiologists suspected a FB and on close scrutiny of the previous scans, they noted it to have been present on all of them. A targeted incision led to the removal of a 3cm fishbone from the collection. This case highlights the need to consider the possibility of a FB being the underlying cause in any unexplained intra-abdominal or abdominal wall inflammatory process so that the diagnosis is made in a timely manner.
Single incision glove port laparoscopic colorectal cancer resection
Authors: Joshi HMN , Gosselink MP , Adusumilli S , Hompes R , Cunningham C , Lindsey I , Jones OM
Published: March 2015

Introduction

The advantages of single port surgery remain controversial. This study was designed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of single incision glove port colon resections using a diathermy hook, reusable ports and standard laparoscopic straight instrumentation.

Methods

Between June 2012 and February 2014, 70 consecutive patients (30 women) underwent a colonic resection using a wound retractor and glove port. Forty patients underwent a right hemicolectomy through the umbilicus and thirty underwent attempted single port resection via an incision in the right rectus sheath (14 high anterior resection, 13 low anterior resection, 3 abdominoperineal resection).

Results

Sixty-two procedures (89%) were completed without conversion to open or multiport techniques. Four procedures had to be converted and additional ports were needed in four other patients. The postoperative mortality rate was 0%. Complications occurred in six patients (9%). Two cases were R1 while the remainder were R0 with a median nodal harvest of 20 (range: 9–48). The median length of hospital stay was 5 days (range: 3–25 days) (right hemicolectomy: 5 days (range: 3–12 days), left sided resection: 6 days (range: 4–25 days). At a median follow-up of 14 months, no port site hernias were observed.

Conclusions

Single incision glove port surgery is an appropriate technique for different colorectal cancer resections and has the advantage of being less expensive than surgery with commercial single incision ports.
Durability of giant hiatus hernia repair in 455 patients over 20 years
Authors: Le Page PA , Furtado R , Hayward M , Law S , Tan A , Vivian SJ , Van der Wall H , Falk GL
Published: March 2015

Introduction

The surgical management of symptomatic giant hiatus hernia (GHH) aims to improve quality of life (QoL) and reduce the risk of life threatening complications. Previous reports are predominantly those with small sample sizes and short follow-up periods. The present study sought to assess a large cohort of patients for recurrence and QoL over a longer time period.

Methods

This was a follow-up study of a prospectively collected database of 455 consecutive patients. Primary repair of GHH was evaluated by endoscopy/barium meal for recurrence and a standardised symptom questionnaire for QoL. Recurrence was assessed for size, elapsed time, oesophagitis and symptoms.

Results

Objective and subjective review was achieved in 91.9% and 68.6% of patients. The median age was 69 years (range: 15–93 years) and 64% were female. Laparoscopic repair was completed in 95% (mesh in 6% and Collis gastroplasty in 7%). The 30-day mortality rate was 0.9%. The proportion of patients alive at five and ten years were 90% and 75% respectively. Postoperative QoL scores improved from a mean of 95 to 111 (p<0.01) and were stable over time (112 at 10 years). The overall recurrence rate was 35.6% (149/418) at 42 months; this was 11.5% (48/418) for hernias >2cm and 24.2% (101/418) for <2cm. The rate of new recurrence at 0–1 years was 13.7% (>2cm = 3.4%, <2cm = 10.3%), at 1–5 years it was 30.8% (>2cm = 9.5%, <2cm = 21.3%), at 5–10 years it was 40.1% (>2cm = 13.8%, <2cm = 26.3%) and at over 10 years it was 50.0% (>2cm = 25.0%, <2cm = 25.0%). Recurrence was associated with oesophagitis but not decreased QoL. Revision surgery was required in 4.8% of cases (14.8% with recurrence). There were no interval major GHH complications.

Conclusions

Surgery has provided sustained QoL improvements irrespective of recurrence. Recurrence occurred progressively over ten years and may predispose to oesophagitis.
Renal injury management in an urban trauma centre and implications for urological training
Authors: McPhee M , Arumainayagam N , Clark M , Burfitt N , DasGupta R
Published: March 2015

Introduction

The aim of this study was to analyse the treatment and management of renal injury patients presenting to our major trauma unit to determine the likelihood of patients needing immediate nephrectomy.

Methods

The Trauma Audit and Research Network (TARN) database was used to review trauma cases presenting to our department between February 2009 and September 2013. Demographic data, mechanism and severity of injury, grade of renal trauma, management and 30-day outcome were determined from TARN data, electronic patient records and imaging.

Results

There were a total of 1,856 trauma cases, of which 36 patients (1.9%) had a renal injury. In this group, the median age was 28 years (range: 16–92 years), with 28 patients (78%) having blunt renal trauma and 8 (22%) penetrating renal trauma. The most common cause for blunt renal trauma was road traffic accidents. Renal trauma cases were stratified into American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) grades (grade I: 19%, grade II: 22%, grade III: 28%, grade IV: 28%, grade V: 0%). All patients with grade I and II injuries were treated conservatively. There were three patients (1 with grade III and 2 with grade IV renal injuries) who underwent radiological embolisation. One of these patients went on to have a delayed nephrectomy owing to unsuccessful embolisation.

Conclusions

Trauma patients rarely require emergency nephrectomy. Radiological selective embolisation provides a good interventional option in cases of active bleeding from renal injury in haemodynamically stable patients. This has implications for trauma care and how surgical cover is provided for the rare event of nephrectomy.
Laparoscopic management of terminal ileal volvulus caused by Meckel’s diverticulum
Authors: Xanthis A , Hakeem A , Safranek P
Published: March 2015

Complications from a Meckel’s diverticulum include diverticulitis, bleeding, intussusception, bowel obstruction, a volvulus, a vesicodiverticular fistula, perforation or very rarely as a tumour. We report a case where a Meckel’s diverticulum presented with a terminal ileal volvulus in a 32-year-old man without the presence of a typical vitelline band or axial torsion of the diverticulum causing the volvulus. It was successfully managed laparoscopically.
Does arthroscopic subacromial decompression improve quality of life
Authors: Butt U , Whiteman A , Wilson J , Paul E , Roy B
Published: March 2015

Introduction

There has been a significant rise in the volume of subacromial decompression surgery performed in the UK. This study aimed to determine whether arthroscopic subacromial decompression improves health related quality of life in a cost effective manner.

Methods

Patients undergoing arthroscopic subacromial decompression surgery for impingement were enrolled between 2012 and 2014. The Oxford shoulder score and the EQ-5D™ instruments were completed prior to and following surgery. A cost–utility analysis was performed.

Results

Eighty-three patients were eligible for the study with a mean follow-up duration of 15 months (range: 4–27 months). The mean Oxford shoulder score improved by 13 points (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11–15 points). The mean health utility gain extrapolated from the EQ-5D™ questionnaire improved by 0.23 (95% CI: 0.16–0.30), translating to a minimum cost per QALY of £5,683.

Conclusions

Subacromial decompression leads to significant improvement in function and quality of life in a cost effective manner. This provides justification for its ongoing practice by appropriately trained shoulder surgeons in correctly selected patients.
Systematic review of enhanced recovery after gastro-oesophageal cancer surgery
Authors: Gemmill EH , Humes DJ , Catton JA
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Fast track methodology or enhanced recovery schemes have gained increasing popularity in perioperative care. While evidence is strong for colorectal surgery, its importance in gastric and oesophageal surgery has yet to be established. This article reviews the evidence of enhanced recovery schemes on outcome for this type of surgery.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted up to March 2014. Studies were retrieved and analysed using predetermined criteria.

Results

From 34 articles reviewed, 18 eligible studies were identified: 7 on gastric and 11 on oesophageal resection. Three randomised controlled trials, five case-controlled studies and ten case series were identified. The reported protocols included changes to each stage of the patient journey from pre to postoperative care. The specific focus following oesophageal resections was on early mobilisation, a reduction in intensive care unit stay, early drain removal and early (or no) contrast swallow studies. Following gastric resections, the emphasis was on reducing epidural anaesthesia along with re-establishing oral intake in the first three postoperative days and early removal of nasogastric tubes. In the papers reviewed, mortality rates following fast track surgery were 0.8% (9/1,075) for oesophageal resection and 0% (0/329) for gastric resection. The reported morbidity rate was 16.5% (54/329) following gastric resection and 38.6% (396/1,075) following oesophageal resection. Length of stay was reduced in both groups compared with conventional recovery groups in comparative studies.

Conclusions

The evidence for enhanced recovery schemes following gastric and oesophageal resection is weak, with only three (low volume) published randomised controlled trials. However, the enhanced recovery approach appears safe and may be associated with a reduction in length of stay.
Incidence and survival trends of lip, intra-oral cavity and tongue base cancers in south-east England
Authors: Olaleye O , Ekrikpo U , Lyne O , Wiseberg J
Published: March 2015

Background

Oral cavity cancers are on the increase in the UK. Understanding site-specific epidemiological trends is important for cancer control measures. This study demonstrates the changing epidemiological trends in lip, intra-oral cavity and tongue base cancers in south-east England from 1987 to 2006.

Aim: Methods

This was a retrospective study using anonymised data obtained from the Thames Cancer Registry (TCR) London. Data were analysed using SPSS v.17 and survival analyses with Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression. Age standardisation of the incidence rates was performed. It was conducted in south-east England, which has an average population of 12 million. The study analysed 9,318 cases (ICD-10 code C00–C06, C14). Kent Research Ethics Committee UK granted ethical approval.

Results

Oral cancers were more common in men, with male: female ratio of 1.6:1. Tongue cancers had the highest frequency at 3,088 (33.1%). Incidence varied with each cancer type. Mean incidence (per 1,000,000) ranged from 2.3 (lip cancer) to 13.8 (tongue cancer). There has been a statistically significant increase in incidence for cancers of the tongue base, other parts of tongue, gum and palate (p<0.001). Median survival time varied by sub-site, with lip cancer having the best median survival time (11.09 years) compared with tongue base cancer (2.42 years). Survival analyses showed worse prognosis for men, older age at diagnosis, and presence of synchronous tumours (p<0.001).

Conclusion

There is a rising incidence of tongue and tongue base, gum and palate cancers in south-east England with wide variability in survival. Oral cancer awareness and screening programmes should be encouraged.
Upper airway obstruction in a patient with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome
Authors: Chatzoudis D , Kelly TJ , Lancaster J , Jones TM
Published: March 2015

We report a case of recurrent airway obstruction episodes resulting from laryngeal hypermobility in a patient with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. A 44-year-old woman, with known Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, presented with recent onset of episodes of upper airway obstruction due to hypermobility of her larynx. A suitable conservative management strategy proved elusive and the patient finally underwent a thyrohyoidopexy. The patient remains symptom free nine months after the procedure. This is the first report of spontaneous life threatening upper airway obstruction due to hypermobility of the suprahyoid suspensory soft tissues in Ehlers–Danlos syndrome.
What to publish
Authors: Alderson D
Published: March 2015

Medical Publishing Series

Jyoti Shah, Pippa Smart Series Editors

E: jyoti.shah@burtonft.nhs.uk , pippa.smart@gmail.com

‘The writer is an explorer. Every step is an advance into new land.’

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Technological developments have transformed communications in the modern era. Innovations like Wikipedia have replaced shelves of encyclopaedias and e-books are replacing textbooks. Nevertheless, the scientific journal article has remained stagnated to a presentation that is as old as the academic journal itself: introduction, methods, results and discussion. The only difference is that they are much longer! The average scientific article in 1975 was 7.4 pages long and this has risen to 12.4 pages within a few decades. 1

Despite this, readers are spending less time reading. 2 Are they busier or has their attention span become shorter? If audiences are mainly reading the abstract, the conclusions, and looking at the illustrations, with only some maybe reading the whole article, perhaps articles need to reflect this change?

Most journals want original, focused, well written articles, and manuscripts that advance the knowledge and understanding in a certain field. Communication can, however, be more than the original scientific article: case reports, reviews or summaries and letters or other short forms of communication.

In this article Professor Alderson, editor-in-chief of the British Journal of Surgery, discusses what types of medical publications exist and at what stage of your career to consider writing them. What is clear is that readers are not interested in reports with no scientific interest, out-of-date work, duplications of previously published work and incorrect or unacceptable conclusions.

JYOTI SHAH

Commissioning Editor

References

1. Tenopir C, King DW. Communication Patterns of Engineers. New York: Wiley; 2004. 2. Maynard S. A Survey on the Use of Different Forms of Scholarly Output. Loughborough: Loughborough University; 2007.
British political values, attitudes to climate change, and travel behaviour
Authors: Johnston Ron , Deeming Christopher
Published: March 2015

The UK is committed to a sharp reduction of greenhouse gases. Progress towards its goal will depend on whether the public can be persuaded to change their travel behaviour. Using British Social Attitudes 2011 survey data, analyses show that the majority of adults – especially the young and better-educated – believe that climate change is occurring but even concerned believers appear reluctant to modify their behaviour. Policies designed to alter transport habits and induce behaviour change need to take that clear conclusion into account. Without a strong political commitment, substantial change that will significantly mitigate the processes appears unlikely.
Covered yet overexposed: From a female religious Jewish performance to Israel’s status as a western or non-western country
Authors: Madar Revital
Published: March 2015

Western discourse over the Muslim veil generated different discursive outcomes. It generalized the different practices of veiling used in the Muslim world, turned it into a symbol of women’s oppression, and remained indifferent to practices of veiling outside of the Muslim world. Research regarding this phenomenon focuses particularly on the political role Muslim practices of veiling play in the western world. In that light, I look at the overt meaning minor acts of covering up have in Israel, ignored in most western countries and argue that it originates in Israel’s self-image as a western country. As such, analyses can serve as a new perspective for thinking of the relation of the West with covertness in general, i.e. beyond a specific garment. The first part of this article describes my personal experiences as a secular woman who is identified as a Jewish religious woman in Israel. The second part discusses Jacqueline Kahanoff’s gaze on Palestinian women. After this, I discuss my work with Comme Il Faut, a local fashion house based in Tel Aviv. After stitching these three points together, the status of Israel as a western or non-western country is discussed, as well as future research.
Contemporary South Asian youth cultures and the fashion landscape
Authors: Begum Lipi , Dasgupta Rohit K.
Published: March 2015

In this article we reflect on the timely dialogue which took place to address how economic growth and the expanding middle-class youth population in South Asia (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) influences sartorial identities. This working note is based on an ongoing research project: ‘South Asian Youth Cultures and Fashion’ and the related symposium at the London College of Fashion, which explores how South Asian sartorial identities have been previously classified and how they are changing in the face of an increasingly globalized world. The conversations which took place reiterated the very reason why the symposium was organized. Whilst there has been some study of South Asian fashion and dressing cultures within history, anthropology and its diaspora, little work has looked at the transnational implication of the changing cultural, economic and fashion education environments on dress cultures on youth.
Built for niche: Rethinking the role of manufacturing in developing designer fashion in New Zealand
Authors: Smith Amanda , Finn Angela
Published: March 2015

The fashion system in New Zealand has strong ties to its northern hemispheric roots, largely due to its colonial past. As a result, local understandings of fashion and design have been derived from predominant British influences in terms of garment design, aesthetics, construction and manufacturing systems. This article examines the appropriateness of continuing these traditional systems as opposed to exploring more dynamic methods suited to the local environment and culture. A global fashion economy and the disconnection of design from geography in the virtual marketplace is discussed through an examination of practice-based enquiry and historical fashion contexts. The authors propose that there is a significant refocus which needs to happen for New Zealand fashion to reinvent itself as a dynamic and international industry. The rethinking of traditional methods of manufacturing and the way we use existing technology offer the best opportunity to drive innovative design both in terms of process and aesthetics. New Zealand does not need to manufacture more clothing but instead should focus on producing high end, distinctive products for an international niche market, a strategy that has proven successful for other New Zealand industries, particularly the premium wine and tourism industries.
The commodification of ethnicity: Vlisco fabrics and wax cloth fashion in Ghana
Authors: Delhaye Christine , Woets Rhoda
Published: March 2015

In this article, we position ethnicity at the heart of the marketplace in contributing to a more complex and multifaceted understanding of identity formation and commodification. We approach the commodification of ethnicity on two, interconnected levels in a globalizing world of fashion. We unravel the designs and discourses of the corporate company and textile producer Vlisco, based in the Netherlands, as well as the practices and ideas of fashion designers in Ghana who make abundant use of wax cloth fabrics. Of central concern in this article is how a corporate company and fashion designers in their designs and narratives unite an understanding of (fashion) identity as both ‘African’ and cosmopolitan, as an individual and collective expression. It is clearly not our intention to applaud these processes of commodification uncritically, fuelled as they are by global capitalism. Yet we do want to approach them as creative processes in all their complexity.
Why Africa? Why now? The designs of Ade Bakare
Authors: Borgatti Jean
Published: March 2015

Ade Bakare’s designs show his use of historic Yoruba textiles and textile design techniques to complement gowns and dresses, less African in style than western. Bakare was born and educated in the United Kingdom, and his early career was firmly based in European fashion. After graduating from Salford University College in 1990, Bakare worked in London’s fashion industry, establishing his own label in 1991. However, the first reference to Africa in his timeline does not occur until 2002, over ten years into his career. Since then he has developed an active relationship with the Nigerian world of high fashion. He became the official designer for First Lady Stella Obasanjo in 2004, opened his Lagos boutique in 2006, and established the Young Designers Creative Competition in 2007. In this article, I propose to look at Ade Bakare in both his London and Lagos fashion worlds to explore the broadening of his fashion identity in the last decade to reference not only his Nigerian family background but also his own Yoruba ethnicity. This article draws on Bakare’s archive of materials as well as an in-depth discussion with him on his work.
The roots of change in the contemporary Cambodian fashion scene
Authors: Medvedev Katalin
Published: March 2015

This article problematizes the lack of interest among fashion scholars in Cambodia, despite the fact that Cambodia is rapidly maturing into an important player in the global fashion industry. However, the primary focus of the article is a case study of the indigenous textile/fashion production of Project Wisdom from the Forest (PWF). It demonstrates that the PWF is a pioneer and exemplar of the cultural, social, economic and environmental revitalization of textile/fashion production in Cambodia. The PWF merits attention not only because it has been successful in reviving traditional Cambodian weaving practices that had been on the verge of extinction as a result of the brutality of the Khmer Rouge regime, but also because it has instinctively employed a holistic approach to sustainable production. The study details the practices at the PWF that embrace the principles of social development, equity, ecological stability and economic viability and suggests that the PWF might represent the first step in creating fashion that is genuinely Cambodian, as fashion always references the past to create new styles. It is proposed that similar holistic models of sustainable fashion production might be adopted in other fashion peripheries to provide local solutions for the development of indigenous fashion production.
USO DE PLANTAS MEDICINAIS POR FAMÍLIAS DO VALE DO JEQUITINHONHA, MINAS GERAIS, BRASIL
Authors: Barreto Cruz Maria Jesus , Nunes Dourado Lays Fernanda , Bodevan Emerson Cotta , Araújo Lorena Ulhôa , Grael Cristiane Fernanda Fuzer , Santos Delba Fonseca
Published: March 2015

O objetivo do estudo foi investigar a utilização de plantas medicinais pelas famílias residentes no Vale do Jequitinhonha, Minas Gerais. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo tipo inquérito populacional domiciliar, amostra constituída por 555 domicílios selecionados de maneira aleatória simples por meio de amostragem por conglomerado de 137 setores censitários. Dos participantes, 73,51% relataram a utilização de plantas medicinais, sendo Mentha x piperita L., Mentha pulegium L. e Foeniculum vulgare Mill as mais citadas. Dos que utilizaram plantas medicinais, 48% preparavam por decocção, 46,8% por infusão, 77% aprenderam com os pais como utilizar e preparar. Foi observado que 90,7% obtiveram as plantas dos próprios quintais, 90,9% consumiam frescas e 94,4% achavam que não fazia mal. A utilização de plantas medicinais é comum nos municípios estudados. Assim, nota-se a necessidade de realização de pesquisa etnobotânica e capacitação dos profissionais de saúde para promover o uso racional de plantas medicinais.
System Reliability of a Machine Repair System With a Multiple-Vacation and Unreliable Server
Authors: Chen Wu-Lin , Wen Chia-Hsien , Chen Zheng-Han
Published: March 2015

This study deals with reliability and sensitivity analysis of a machine repair system with warm standbys and an unreliable server having multiple-vacation. Failure times of operating and warm standby machines are assumed to be exponentially distributed with parameters λ and η, respectively. Vacation times of the server are also assumed to be exponentially distributed. A practical example of the model under consideration in this study is provided. The Laplace transform technique was used to derive the reliability function RY(t) and the mean time to system failure MTTF. We performed a parametric investigation that provided numerical results to show how various system parameters affect RY(t) and MTTF. Sensitivity analyses of RY(t) and MTTF, along with changes in specific values of the system parameters, were investigated. Relative sensitivity analyses of RY(t) and MTTF with various parameters were also studied.
Targeting DDX3 with a small molecule inhibitor for lung cancer therapy
Authors: Bol Guus M , Vesuna Farhad , Xie Min , Zeng Jing , Aziz Khaled , Gandhi Nishant , Levine Anne , Irving Ashley , Korz Dorian , Tantravedi Saritha , Heerma van Voss Marise R , Gabrielson Kathleen , Bordt Evan A , Polster Brian M , Cope Leslie , van der Groep Petra , Kondaskar Atul , Rudek Michelle A , Hosmane Ramachandra S , van der Wall Elsken , van Diest Paul J , Tran Phuoc T , Raman Venu
Published: March 2015

Lung cancer is the most common malignancy worldwide and is a focus for developing targeted therapies due to its refractory nature to current treatment. We identified a RNA helicase, DDX3, which is overexpressed in many cancer types including lung cancer and is associated with lower survival in lung cancer patients. We designed a first‐in‐class small molecule inhibitor, RK‐33, which binds to DDX3 and abrogates its activity. Inhibition of DDX3 by RK‐33 caused G1 cell cycle arrest, induced apoptosis, and promoted radiation sensitization in DDX3‐overexpressing cells. Importantly, RK‐33 in combination with radiation induced tumor regression in multiple mouse models of lung cancer. Mechanistically, loss of DDX3 function either by shRNA or by RK‐33 impaired Wnt signaling through disruption of the DDX3–β‐catenin axis and inhibited non‐homologous end joining—the major DNA repair pathway in mammalian somatic cells. Overall, inhibition of DDX3 by RK‐33 promotes tumor regression, thus providing a compelling argument to develop DDX3 inhibitors for lung cancer therapy.
A metabolic switch toward lipid use in glycolytic muscle is an early pathologic event in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Palamiuc Lavinia , Schlagowski Anna , Ngo Shyuan T , Vernay Aurelia , Dirrig‐Grosch Sylvie , Henriques Alexandre , Boutillier Anne‐Laurence , Zoll Joffrey , Echaniz‐Laguna Andoni , Loeffler Jean‐Philippe , René Frédérique
Published: March 2015

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common fatal motor neuron disease in adults. Numerous studies indicate that ALS is a systemic disease that affects whole body physiology and metabolic homeostasis. Using a mouse model of the disease (SOD1G86R), we investigated muscle physiology and motor behavior with respect to muscle metabolic capacity. We found that at 65 days of age, an age described as asymptomatic, SOD1G86R mice presented with improved endurance capacity associated with an early inhibition in the capacity for glycolytic muscle to use glucose as a source of energy and a switch in fuel preference toward lipids. Indeed, in glycolytic muscles we showed progressive induction of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 expression. Phosphofructokinase 1 was inhibited, and the expression of lipid handling molecules was increased. This mechanism represents a chronic pathologic alteration in muscle metabolism that is exacerbated with disease progression. Further, inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 activity with dichloroacetate delayed symptom onset while improving mitochondrial dysfunction and ameliorating muscle denervation. In this study, we provide the first molecular basis for the particular sensitivity of glycolytic muscles to ALS pathology.