bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Working with and learning from Country: decentring human author-ity
Authors: Country Bawaka , Wright Sarah , Suchet-Pearson Sandie , Lloyd Kate , Burarrwanga Laklak , Ganambarr Ritjilili , Ganambarr-Stubbs Merrkiyawuy , Ganambarr Banbapuy , Maymuru Djawundil
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we invite you night fishing for wäkun at Bawaka, an Indigenous homeland in North East Arnhem Land, Australia. As we hunt wäkun, we discuss our work as an Indigenous and non-Indigenous, human and more-than-human research collective trying to attend deeply to the messages we send and receive from, with and as a part of Country. The wäkun, and all the animals, plants, winds, processes, things, dreams and people that emerge together in nourishing, co-constitutive ways to create Bawaka Country, are the author-ity of our research. Our reflection is both methodological and ontological as we aim to attend deeply to Country and deliberate on what a Yolŋu ontology of co-becoming, that sees everything as knowledgeable, vital and interconnected, might mean for the way academics do research. We discuss a methodology of attending underpinned by a relational ethics of care. Here, care stems from an awareness of our essential co-constitution as we care for, and are cared for by, the myriad human and more-than-human becomings that emerge together to create Bawaka. We propose that practising relational research requires researchers to open themselves up to the reality of their connections with the world, and consider what it means to live as part of the world, rather than distinct from it. We end with a call to go beyond ‘human’ geography to embrace a more-than-human geography, a geography of co-becoming.
Freeform surface lens design for uniform illumination of a rectangular area
Authors: Zhang K , Su CY , Feng ZY , Wang WJ , Zhang CH
Published: June 2014

Optical design for an integrated light source is currently a hot topic, but it is also difficult due to the complexity of the calculations. In this paper, based on the edge-ray principle and the grid division method, two types of lenses for creating a 3:1 uniformly illuminated rectangular spot and 1:1 uniformly illuminated square spot are designed. Research results show that when the ratio of the size of the LED light source to the lens height is 1:10 and 1:5, i.e. it is equivalent to a point source, the uniformity of illuminance on the target surface is as high as 90%, and the system energy utilisation is 88%. When the ratio of the size of the LED source to the lens height is 1:3.3, 1:2.5 or 1:2.0, i.e. the equivalent of an extended source, the uniformity of illuminance on the target surface is more than 80% and the system energy utilisation is about 88%. This means the lenses can maintain the high energy efficiency and illuminance uniformity for an extended source. Tolerance analyses were also conducted. It seems that the illumination uniformity is sensitive to light source installation errors, but when the offset of the LED from the lens is less than 0.2 mm, illumination uniformity is maintained at a high level.
Family matters: A cross-national examination of family bonding and victimization
Authors: Posick Chad , Rocque Michael
Published: June 2014

Family bonding is a mainstay in theories of crime and delinquency. Recently, it has also been extended to explain exposure to victimization in the US and abroad. Although research reveals that there are differences between countries in their views about the importance of family, scholarship has not yet considered how and why the protective features of family bonding might vary across the country context according to how the family is valued. This study, using data from the second International Self-Report Delinquency Study (ISRD-2), reveals that both individual levels of family bonding and macro levels of the perceived importance of the family are negatively related to victimization. Analyses suggest that exposure to victimization and the effects of family bonding vary across contexts where the effect of family bonding on victimization is stronger in countries that view the family as more important. We conclude that these results contribute insight into the operationalization of victimization theories across the country context and that policies at the country level may prove useful in reducing victimization risk.
A retrospective study on the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Raskin Jonathan , Qua Debbie , Marks Ted , Sulica Roxana
Published: June 2014

A retrospective analysis of 23 patients was undertaken to evaluate the outcome of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) over a preceding 6-year time frame. Chart review and data analyses were undertaken evaluating pulmonary arterial hypertension pharmacotherapy versus the same therapy with the addition of PR. Analysis included 23 patients who had a mean pulmonary artery pressure of 36.6 while on therapy and who had initial six-minute walk tests (6MWTs) ranging between 54 and 396 meters. Outcomes included 6MWTs and Saint George’s Respiratory Questionnaire. There was no improvement in 6MWT postpharmacotherapy. Patients with low 6MWT <250 meters had substantial gains in 6MWT postrehabilitation (average of 86 meters). As well, those with initial 6MWT >250 meters had a significant improvement of 52.55 meters, documenting the utility of PR in patients with PH. PH patients are increasingly seen in PR clinics as they share many characteristics present in chronic respiratory disease states. There is increasing literature supporting the utility of PR in this population. We have found that patients with 6MWTs as low as <250 meters are also candidates for PR and can demonstrate substantial benefits as measured using the 6MWTs.
Using Social Media to Enhance Career Development Opportunities for Health Promotion Professionals
Authors: Roman Leah A.
Published: June 2014

For health promotion professionals, social media offers many ways to engage with a broader range of colleagues; participate in professional development events; promote expertise, products, or services; and learn about career-enhancing opportunities such as funding and fellowships. Previous work has recommended “building networking into what you are already doing.” This article provides updated and new social media resources, as well as practical examples and strategies to promote effective use of social media. Social media offers health promotion professionals cost-effective opportunities to enhance their career by building communities of practice, participating in professional development events, and enriching classroom learning. Developing the skills necessary to use social media for networking is important in the public health workforce, especially as social media is increasingly used in academic and practice settings.
The CDC Clear Communication Index Is a New Evidence-Based Tool to Prepare and Review Health Information
Authors: Baur Cynthia , Prue Christine
Published: June 2014

This article presents the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Clear Communication Index (the Index), a tool that emphasizes the primary audience’s needs and provides a set of evidence-based criteria to develop and assess public communication products for diverse audiences. The Index consists of four open-ended introductory questions and 20 scored items that affect information clarity and audience comprehension, according to the scientific literature. A research team fielded an online survey to test the Index’s validity. Respondents answered 10 questions about either an original health material or one redesigned with the Index. For 9 out of 10 questions, the materials revised using the Index were rated higher than the original materials. Regardless of education level, respondents rated the revised materials more favorably than the original ones. The results indicate that the Index performed as intended and made it more likely that audiences could correctly identify the intended main message and understand the words and numbers in the materials. The results also support the widely held view that audiences are more positive about clearly designed materials. The Index shows that an evidence-based scoring rubric can assess and improve the clarity of health materials.
Cognitive Stimulation of Executive Functions in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Moro V. , Condoleo M. T. , Valbusa V. , Broggio E. , Moretto G. , Gambina G.
Published: June 2014

Executive functions play an important role in the maintenance of autonomy in day-to-day activities. Nevertheless, there is little research into specific cognitive training for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). We present the results of a program which aims to teach specific strategies and metacognitive abilities in order for patients to be able to carry out attentional and executive tasks. Two groups (A and B) were compared in a cross-over design. After the first evaluation, Group A (but not B) participated in a six month cognitive stimulation program. After a second assessment, only Group B received treatment and then a final evaluation was carried out on both groups. The results show that: i) both groups improved their performance as an effect of training; ii) improvements generalized to memory and general cognitive tasks; iii) in the interval without training, Group B's performance worsened and iv) Group A partially maintained their results over time.
Feeding Tubes for Older People With Advanced Dementia Living in the Community in Israel
Authors: Bentur Netta , Sternberg Shelley , Shuldiner Jennifer , Dwolatzky Tzvi
Published: June 2014

Background:

Feeding tubes to address eating problems of older people with advanced dementia (OPAD) has been studied primarily in nursing homes.

Objectives:

To examine the prevalence of feeding tube use among OPAD living in the community; to evaluate the characteristics, quality of care, and the burden on caregivers.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey of 117 caregivers of OPAD living in the community.

Results:

Of 117 patients, 26% had feeding tubes. Compared to nonusers, feeding tube users had more use of restraints, greater problems with swallowing, more emergency room visits, and were more likely to have a legal guardian. In addition, caregivers of feeding tube users were older and reported very heavy burden of care. Half of the caregivers reported that the medical team consulted them before insertion of the feeding tube.

Conclusion:

Feeding tube use in OPAD in the community is associated with negative outcomes and increased caregiver burden.
Caspase-dependent Mcl-1 cleavage and effect of Mcl-1 phosphorylation in ABT-737-induced apoptosis in human acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell lines
Authors: Ryu YongKu , Hall Connor P , Reynolds C Patrick , Kang Min H
Published: June 2014

ABT-737 is a BH3-mimetic that has a wide spectrum of single-agent activity against acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell lines and xenografts. Previously, we reported that in response to ABT-737, ABT-737-resistant ALL cell lines showed an apparent increase in Mcl-1 (an anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family protein that is not effectively inhibited by ABT-737) while ABT-737-sensitive ALL cell lines showed decreased Mcl-1 levels. Here we explored the mechanism of Mcl-1 cleavage by ABT-737 and the effect of adjacent phosphorylation sites on Mcl-1 cleavage and apoptosis induced by ABT-737 in a human B-lineage ALL cell line. Caspase cleavage sites in Mcl-1 and the effect of mutation in Mcl-1 phosphorylation sites were determined by transducing Mcl-1 variants tagged with the V5 epitope into human ALL cells. Cytotoxicity was by fluorescence-based DIMSCAN, and changes in protein by immunoblotting. ABT-737 induced a caspase-dependent cleavage of Mcl-1. Of the two Mcl-1 caspase cleavage sites (D127 and D157), D157 was the site of ABT-737-induced cleavage in ALL cells. Cells with exogenously expressed Mcl-1 Δ157 fragment showed greater caspase-3 and caspase-9 activation when they were treated with ABT-737 compared with cells expressing wild-type or D157A mutant Mcl-1. Cells with mutated phosphorylation sites on Mcl-1 (S159A and T163A) were less susceptible to Mcl-1 cleavage and apoptosis induced by ABT-737. Our data showed that Mcl-1 is post-translationally regulated in response to ABT-737 treatment, primarily via a caspase-dependent cleavage that generates a pro-apoptotic Mcl-1 fragment.
Challenges and promises in modeling dermatologic disorders with bioengineered skin
Authors: Eungdamrong Narat J , Higgins Claire , Guo Zongyou , Lee Wen-han , Gillette Brian , Sia Samuel , Christiano Angela M
Published: June 2014

The tremendous cost of drug development is often attributed to the long time interval between identifying lead compounds in preclinical studies to assessing clinical efficacy in randomized clinical trials. Many candidate molecules show promise in cell culture or animal models, only to fail in late stage in human investigations. There is a need for novel technologies that allow investigators to quickly and reliably predict drug safety and efficacy. The advent of microtechnology has made it possible to integrate multiple microphysiologic organ systems into a single microfabricated chip. This review focuses on three-dimensional engineered skin, which has enjoyed a long history of uses both in clinical treatments of refractory ulcers and as a laboratory model. We discuss current biological and engineering challenges in construction of a robust bioengineered skin and provide a blueprint for its potential utility to model dermatologic disorders such as psoriasis or cutaneous drug reactions.
Open Versus Endovascular Repair of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Hughes Kakra , Guerrier Jean , Obirieze Augustine , Ngwang Dora , Rose David , Tran Daniel , Cornwell Edward , Obisesan Thomas , Preventza Ourania
Published: June 2014

Purpose:

Endovascular repair of descending thoracic aortic aneurysms has become an acceptable surgical option over the past decade. We sought to compare the results of open versus endovascular repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms (TEVAR) in the United States.

Methods:

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried to identify all patients undergoing elective repair of a thoracic aortic aneurysm from 1998 to 2007 in the United States. Patient demographic data, preoperative comorbidities, and postoperative complications were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed comparing open versus endovascular repair. Multivariate analyses were conducted controlling for preoperative comorbidities including the presence of diabetes mellitus, cardiac, respiratory, and renal comorbidities as well as patient’s age, gender, and ethnicity. The primary end point was mortality. Secondary end points were postoperative neurologic, cardiac, and respiratory complications.

Results:

There were 8967 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Of these patients, 8255 (92%) had an open repair and 712 (8%) had an endovascular repair. The overall mortality was 4.5% (4.6% for open and 3.6% for endovascular). On multivariate analysis, the odds of death were reduced by 46% among patients undergoing endovascular repair when compared to open repair (odds ratio [OR]: 0.54; P = .016). There was also reduced odds of a postoperative neurologic complication (OR: 0.48; P = .015), cardiac complication (OR: 0.24; P < .001), and respiratory complication (OR: 0.38: P = .001) in the endovascular group.

Conclusions:

Nationwide data comparing open and TEVAR in the United States reveal decreased postoperative mortality and a decreased incidence of postoperative neurologic, cardiac, and respiratory complications for TEVAR.
Two-Year Exercise Program Improves Physical Function in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Prodoehl Janey , Rafferty Miriam R. , David Fabian J. , Poon Cynthia , Vaillancourt David E. , Comella Cynthia L. , Leurgans Sue E. , Kohrt Wendy M. , Corcos Daniel M. , Robichaud Julie A.
Published: June 2014

Background. The progressive resistance exercise (PRE) in Parkinson’s disease trial (PRET-PD) showed that PRE improved the motor signs of PD compared to a modified Fitness Counts (mFC) program. It is unclear how long-term exercise affects physical function in these individuals. Objective. To examine the effects of long-term PRE and mFC on physical function outcome measures in individuals with PD. Methods. A preplanned secondary analysis was conducted using data from the 38 patients with idiopathic PD who completed the PRET-PD trial. Participants were randomized into PRE or mFC groups and exercised 2 days/week up to 24 months. Blinded assessors obtained functional outcomes on and off medication at baseline, 6 and 24 months with the Modified Physical Performance Test, 5 times sit to stand test, Functional Reach Test, Timed Up and Go, Berg Balance Scale, 6 minute walk test (6MWT), and 50-ft walking speed (walk speed). Results. The groups did not differ on any physical function measure at 6 or 24 months ( Ps > .1). Across time, all physical function measures improved from baseline to 24 months when tested on medication ( Ps < .0001), except for 6MWT ( P = .068). Off medication results were similar except that the 6MWT was now significant. Conclusions. Twenty-four months of supervised and structured exercise (either PRE or mFC) is effective at improving functional performance outcomes in individuals with moderate PD. Clinicians should strive to include structured and supervised exercise in the long-term plan of care for individuals with PD.
A Mixed Methods Mapping of Church Versus Secular School Messages to Influence Sexual Decision Making as Perceived by Zimbabwean Orphan Girl Students
Authors: Mpofu Elias , Hallfors Denise Dion , Mutepfa Magen Mhaka , Dune Tinashe Moira
Published: June 2014

This study examined the messages perceived by adolescent girls with orphanhood to influence their sexual decision making. Participants were 125 students (mean age = 14.7 years), 54% of whom attended church schools in a rural district of eastern Zimbabwe. We collected and analyzed data using concept mapping, a mixed method approach that enabled the construction of message clusters, with weighting for their relative importance. Messages that clustered under Biblical Teachings and Life Planning ranked highest in salience among students in both church and secular schools. Protecting Family Honor, HIV Prevention, and Social Stigma messages ranked next, respectively. Contrary to study hypotheses, the messages that orphan adolescent girls perceived to influence their sexual decisions did not vary by type of school attended.
Self-injurious behaviour, non-interventionism and practitioners’ needs
Authors: Ntinas Konstantinos M
Published: June 2014

The aim of the present article is to critically analyse the literature concerning the factors that lead to non-interventionism towards self-injurious behaviour (SIB) in the field of intellectual disability and to make recommendations for the development of practice. It emerges that the limited behaviour analytic skills of practitioners impede the implementation of behavioural interventions and allow SIB to persist. The implications for the development of in-service training and managerial support that would disseminate the implementation of behavioural interventions are briefly discussed.
Understanding the importance of relationships
Authors: Aston Megan , Breau Lynn , MacLeod Emily
Published: June 2014

Effective and therapeutic relationships between health care providers and clients are important elements for positive health outcomes. Children with intellectual disabilities (IDs) and their parents face unique challenges in establishing relationships with health care providers due to social and institutional stigma and stereotypes associated with children with IDs. In this article, we discuss the theme of building relationships in a hospital setting that emerged from a qualitative feminist poststructuralist study conducted in Canada with 8 children with IDs, 17 mothers, and 12 nurses who cared for them. Our research provides examples of how nurses and mothers worked in and through the system sometimes with frustration but also sometimes with positive excitement to develop supportive relationships. We can learn from these moments of tension and moments of success about how to work together to ensure positive relationships are provided to children with IDs, their parents, and health care professionals.
The Ottawa statement on the ethical design and conduct of cluster randomized trials: A short report
Authors: Weijer Charles , Taljaard Monica , Grimshaw Jeremy M , Edwards Sarah JL , Eccles Martin P ,   The Ottawa Ethics of Randomized Trials Consensus Group
Published: June 2014

Owing to unique features of their design, cluster randomized trials complicate the interpretation of standard ethics guidelines. The recently published Ottawa statement on the ethical design and conduct of cluster randomized trials provides researchers and research ethics committees with detailed guidance on the design, conduct and review of cluster trials. The Ottawa statement sets out 15 recommendations, including guidance on the justification of study design, the need for research ethics committee review, the identification of research participants, obtaining informed consent, the role of gatekeepers in protecting cluster interests, the assessment of benefits and harms, and the protection of vulnerable participants.
Avoiding analgesic escalation and excessive healthcare utilization in severe irritable bowel syndrome: a role for intramuscular anticholinergics?
Authors: Pearson James S. , Pollard Christine , Whorwell Peter J.
Published: June 2014

Objectives:

In patients with severe irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), abdominal pain can be the predominant symptom impacting on all aspects of their lives and resulting in excessive healthcare utilization. Furthermore, the use of analgesics can become excessive in this group of patients, sometimes leading to opiate dependency. Typically, the pain is often described as spastic in nature and we have speculated that parenteral anticholinergics might provide effective relief when all other measures have failed. For several years, we have therefore been asking general practitioners to consider teaching such patients to administer intramuscular hyoscine butylbromide for pain episodes and this study is an audit of this approach.

Methods:

Patients in whom the use of intramuscular hyoscine butylbromide had been recommended to their general practitioner in the last three years were interviewed over the telephone in order to document the efficacy of this approach as well as any potential disadvantages.

Results:

A total of 122 general practitioners were advised to try this approach, with 58 agreeing to teach the technique and prescribe the medication. Of the 58 patients who used the medication, 50 (86%) found it gave them pain relief, which was complete in six (10%), substantial in 36 (62%) and mild in eight (14%), with 15 (26%) decreasing the use of analgesics and 13 (32%) of the 41 taking opiates able to reduce or stop them completely. Side effects were few and largely consisted of those associated with anticholinergics. Only four patients stopped medication because of side effects and no major skin reactions were reported.

Conclusions:

The use of intramuscular hyoscine butylbromide shows promise in the management of IBS when severe unmanageable abdominal pain is a major problem. This approach appears to be safe and has the potential to reduce analgesic escalation, opiate dependency and attendances at accident and emergency departments.
Reversal of Peroneal Tenodesis With Allograft Reconstruction of the Peroneus Brevis and Longus
Authors: Pellegrini Manuel J. , Adams Samuel B. , Parekh Selene G.
Published: June 2014

Chronic peroneal tendinopathy and tears represent a challenging clinical situation. Traditionally, tenodesis of the torn tendon to the remaining healthy tendon has been advocated if more than half of the tendon is compromised. Allograft reconstructions have been reserved for patients with functional muscles and both peroneal tendons extensively compromised. We report a unique case of a peroneal tenodesis takedown and reconstruction of both peroneal tendons using semitendinosus allograft. A description of the surgical technique and tips are provided. Peroneal tendon function is crucial to maintain a balanced hindfoot. To the best of our knowledge, reconstruction of both peroneal tendons after a tenodesis has not been previously reported. Allograft reconstruction of the peroneal tendons arises as a feasible alternative in patients with residual pain and weakness after a failed tenodesis surgery

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV, case study
Continuous Infragluteal Sciatic Nerve Block for Postoperative Pain Control After Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: Young Diana Starr , Cota Adam , Chaytor Ruth
Published: June 2014

Continuous peripheral nerve blocks (CPNB) for postoperative pain control are being used more frequently for total ankle arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to compare the amount of opioid analgesia used in patients with an infragluteal CPNB to that of patients with no CPNB for postoperative pain management after total ankle replacement. A retrospective cohort study was performed on 78 consecutive patients who had a total ankle arthroplasty from October 2006 to June 2013. The primary outcome measure was opioid analgesia use in the first 48 hours postoperatively. The mean postoperative narcotic use in oral morphine equivalents was 64.6 mg in the CPNB group compared to 129.6 mg in the no CPNB group ( P < .001). Using an infragluteal CPNB as a means of postoperative pain control in patients undergoing a total ankle replacement is associated with significantly decreased opioid use compared to patients receiving no CPNB.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV, case series
Biological effects of soft denture reline materials on L929 cells in vitro
Authors: Chaves Carolina AL , Vergani Carlos E , Thomas Dominique , Young Anne , Costa Carlos AS , Salih Vehid M , Machado Ana L
Published: June 2014

Soft denture reline materials have been developed to help patients when their oral mucosa is damaged or affected due to ill-fitting dentures or post-implant surgery. Although reports have indicated that these materials leach monomers and other components that do affect their biocompatibility, there is little information on what cell molecules may be implicated in these material/tissue interactions. The biocompatibility of six soft liners (Ufi Gel P, Sofreliner S, Durabase Soft, Trusoft, Softone and Coe Comfort) was evaluated using a mouse fibroblast cell line, L929. Within 2 h of material disc preparation, each of the materials was exposed by direct contact to L929 cells for periods of 24 and 48 h. The effect of this interaction was assessed by alamarBlue assay (for cell survival). The expression of integrin α5β1 and transforming growth factor β1 was also assessed using plate assays such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Trusoft, Softone and Coe Comfort showed significantly reduced cell survival compared with the other soft lining materials at each incubation period. Furthermore, there were significant differences with these same materials in the expression of both integrin α5β1 and transforming growth factor β1. Soft liner materials may affect cell viability and cellular proteins that have important roles in wound healing and the preservation of cell viability and function in the presence of environmental challenges and stresses.
An argument with neoliberalism
Authors: Weller Sally , O’Neill Phillip
Published: June 2014

This article argues that the uncritical application of the lens of neoliberalism closes off opportunities for more rigorous analysis of actually existing socio-economic change. We ask whether Australia’s developmental trajectory over the last three decades can be described as neoliberalization and whether the outcome is a variety of neoliberalism. Instead of stitching together a story about variegated neoliberalism, we find an alternative narrative based around the notion of a developmental project more compelling. We document the spatial and political realities that have inhibited the roll-out of neoliberal ideas and practices in the Australian context. We think that instead of expanding the varieties of variegated neoliberalism to accommodate all manner of events and processes in all sorts of places, our task should be to recognize those instances where social, political, cultural or economic changes settle capitalism’s contradictions in ways that diverge from neoliberal frameworks and expectations. Our central point is that the role of academic research is to explain the lived world and to develop abstractions to aid that explanation, rather than to design an abstraction (neoliberalism) and then fit the lived world to its contours.
Provincializing neoliberalism?
Authors: MacLeavy Julie
Published: June 2014

In this short commentary, I respond to Weller and O’Neill’s (2014) presentation of neoliberalism as a ‘summary word that elides a complex reality and dissuades close political engagement’. Whilst I agree that we need to avoid the easy rhetoric of universality in our research enquiries, our attempts to recognize, explain and theorize paradigmatic changes in capitalism necessitate a comprehension of the global context. Attending to the relationship between local ideas and policies and the ‘global imaginary’ of neoliberalism is critical for understanding and evaluating recent political and economic changes. Whilst we do need to constantly reflect on the perils of reifying neoliberalism as a conceptual category, we might also still need and make use of this category, in a more qualified and variegated form, precisely in order to critique shifts in capitalism through explicit examples and propose alternatives to the global futures imagined in the neoliberal story.
The next stage of the food sovereignty debate
Authors: Edelman Marc
Published: June 2014

Food sovereignty advocates are only beginning to discuss polemical issues, such as the role of long-distance trade, the implementation of relevant legal norms, and whether agroecological production can feed a growing global population. The questions of whether food sovereignty and food security are complementary or oppositional and the extent to which they overlap or have overlapped in the past are similarly debated. The genealogies of both concepts are older than is generally assumed. The key task for food sovereignty advocates is to think through the governance and policy issues that until now have been largely implicit in the way paradigm has been framed.
Seeking common ground for food system transformation
Authors: Blay-Palmer Alison , Knezevic Irena , Spring Andrew
Published: June 2014

While theoretically the terms food sovereignty and food security are often very differently nuanced, in practice they commonly provide valuable and complementary foundations for food system transformation. Our goal is to illuminate spaces where food is/has been a lever for change through a combination of food security and food sovereignty initiatives that resulted in shifts with the potential for structural transformation. We provide examples from municipal, regional, national and global scales that illuminate synergistic and fluid relationships between the two concepts and how they are/can be used to activate change. These spaces reveal that the two terms complement, rather than undermine each other, as they often (though not always) represent similar rather than competing values.
Getting to the core of food security and food sovereignty
Authors: Carolan Michael
Published: June 2014

Does food sovereignty have a core? Can it and yet still be spoken of as wildly relational, as being a process which prioritizes means over ends? Those are the type of questions posed in this commentary. After applauding Lucy Jarosz’s ability to synthesize an incredibly diverse literature, spanning decades, the author admits to his own struggles in embracing food security and food sovereignty as radically relational while retaining an ability to critique ends. For example, what if out of inclusive processes emerge problematic (and in some cases outright injustice) practices? In other words, is getting the means right ‘good enough’? Or do phenomena like food security and food sovereignty presuppose particular ends? And if so, what is that core and how can it exist in phenomena premised on nonessentialism?
Trousseau’s Syndrome, a Previously Unrecognized Condition in Acute Ischemic Stroke Associated With Myocardial Injury
Authors: Thalin Charlotte , Blomgren Bo , Mobarrez Fariborz , Lundstrom Annika , Laska Ann Charlotte , von Arbin Magnus , von Heijne Anders , Rooth Elisabeth , Wallen Hakan , Aspberg Sara
Published: June 2014

Trousseau’s syndrome is a well-known malignancy associated hypercoagulative state leading to venous or arterial thrombosis. The pathophysiology is however poorly understood, although multiple mechanisms are believed to be involved. We report a case of Trousseau’s syndrome resulting in concomitant cerebral and myocardial microthrombosis, presenting with acute ischemic stroke and markedly elevated plasma troponin T levels suggesting myocardial injury. Without any previous medical history, the patient developed multiple cerebral infarctions and died within 11 days of admission. The patient was postmortem diagnosed with an advanced metastatic adenocarcinoma of the prostate with disseminated cerebral, pulmonary, and myocardial microthrombosis. Further analyses revealed, to the best of our knowledge for the first time in stroke patients, circulating microvesicles positive for the epithelial tumor marker CK18 and citrullinated histone H3 in thrombi, markers of the recently described cancer-associated procoagulant DNA-based neutrophil extracellular traps. We also found tissue factor, the main in vivo initiator of coagulation, both in thrombi and in metastases. Troponin elevation in acute ischemic stroke is common and has repeatedly been associated with an increased risk of mortality. The underlying pathophysiology is however not fully clarified, although a number of possible explanations have been proposed. We now suggest that unexplainable high levels of troponin in acute ischemic stroke deserve special attention in terms of possible occult malignancy.
Wild-type macrophages reverse disease in heme oxygenase 1-deficient mice
Authors: Kovtunovych Gennadiy , Ghosh Manik C. , Ollivierre Wade , Weitzel R. Patrick , Eckhaus Michael A. , Tisdale John F. , Yachie Akihiro , Rouault Tracey A.
Published: June 2014

Key Points

Transient BM transplant reverses disease in Hmox1−/− mouse by repopulating tissues with wild-type macrophages capable of recycling heme. Established donor macrophage populations remain functionally and quantitatively persistent without additional input from hematopoietic tissue.
The ethics of a proposed study of hematopoietic stem cell transplant for children with “less severe” sickle cell disease
Authors: Nickel Robert S. , Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Haight Ann E.
Published: June 2014

Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is the only cure for sickle cell disease (SCD). HSCT using an HLA-identical sibling donor is currently an acceptable treatment option for children with severe SCD, with expected HSCT survival >95% and event-free survival >85%. HSCT for children with less severe SCD (children who have not yet suffered overt disease complications or only had mild problems) is controversial. It is important to consider the ethical issues of a proposed study comparing HLA-identical sibling HSCT to best supportive care for children with less severe SCD. In evaluating the principles of nonmaleficence, respect for individual autonomy, and justice, we conclude that a study of HLA-identical sibling HSCT for all children with SCD, particularly hemoglobin SS and Sβ0-thalassemia disease, is ethically sound. Future work should explore the implementation of a large trial to help determine whether HSCT is a beneficial treatment of children with less severe SCD.
Bibliometric analysis of regional Latin America's scientific output in Public Health through SCImago Journal & Country Rank
Authors: Zacca-González Grisel , Chinchilla-Rodríguez Zaida , Vargas-Quesada Benjamín , de Moya-Anegón Félix
Published: June 2014

Background

In the greater framework of the essential functions of Public Health, our focus is on a systematic, objective, external evaluation of Latin American scientific output, to compare its publications in the area of Public Health with those of other major geographic zones. We aim to describe the regional distribution of output in Public Health, and the level of visibility and specialization, for Latin America; it can then be characterized and compared in the international context.

Methods

The primary source of information was the Scopus database, using the category “Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health”, in the period 1996–2011. Data were obtained through the portal of SCImago Journal and Country Rank. Using a set of qualitative (citation-based), quantitative (document recount) and collaborative (authors from more than one country) indicators, we derived complementary data. The methodology serves as an analytical tool for researchers and scientific policy-makers.

Results

The contribution of Latin America to the arsenal of world science lies more or less midway on the international scale in terms of its output and visibility. Revealed as its greatest strengths are the high level of specialization in Public Health and the sustained growth of output. The main limitations identified were a relative decrease in collaboration and low visibility.

Conclusions

Collaboration is a key factor behind the development of scientific activity in Latin America. Although this finding can be useful for formulating research policy in Latin American countries, it also underlines the need for further research into patterns of scientific communication in this region, to arrive at more specific recommendations.
1-D nanoporous anodic alumina rugate filters by means of small current variations for real-time sensing applications
Authors: Macias Gerard , Ferré-Borrull Josep , Pallarès Josep , Marsal Lluís F
Published: June 2014

A rugate filter based on nanoporous anodic alumina was fabricated using an innovative sinusoidal current profile with small current variation. The resulting structure consisted of highly parallel pores with modulations of the pore diameter along the pore axis and with no branching. The effect of the period time and the pore widening post-treatment was studied. From reflectance measurements, it was seen that the position of the reflection band can be tuned by adjusting the period time and the width by pore-widening post-treatments. We tested one of the rugate filters by infiltrating the structure with EtOH and water in order to evaluate its sensing capabilities. This method allows the fabrication of complex in-depth modulated nanoporous anodic alumina structures that open up the possibility of new kinds of alumina-based optical sensing devices.
In vivo and in vitro evaluation of the cytotoxic effects of Photosan-loaded hollow silica nanoparticles on liver cancer
Authors: Liu Zhong-Tao , Xiong Li , Liu Zhi-Peng , Miao Xiong-Ying , Lin Liang-Wu , Wen Yu
Published: June 2014

This study aimed to compare the inhibitory effects of photosensitizers loaded in hollow silica nanoparticles and conventional photosensitizers on HepG2 human hepatoma cell proliferation and determine the underlying mechanisms. Photosensitizers (conventional Photosan-II or nanoscale Photosan-II) were administered to in vitro cultured HepG2 hepatoma cells and treated by photodynamic therapy (PDT) with various levels of light exposure. To assess photosensitizers' effects, cell viability was determined by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. In addition, apoptotic and necrotic cells were measured by flow cytometry and the expression of caspase-3 and caspase-9 evaluated by western blot. Finally, the in vivo effects of nanoscale and conventional photosensitizers on liver cancer were assessed in nude mice. Nanoscale Photosan-II significantly inhibited hepatoma cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner and this effect was more pronounced with high laser doses. Moreover, nanoscale photosensitizers performed better than the conventional ones under the same experimental conditions (p < 0.05). Flow cytometry data demonstrated that laser-induced cell death was markedly increased after treatment with nanoscale Photosan-II in comparison with free Photosan-II (p < 0.05). Activated caspase-3 and caspase-9 levels were significantly higher in cells treated with Photosan-II loaded in silica nanoparticles than free Photosan-II (p < 0.05). Accordingly, treatment with nanoscale photosensitizers resulted in improved outcomes (tumor volume) in a mouse model of liver cancer, in comparison with conventional photosensitizers. Hollow silica nanoparticles containing photosensitizer more efficiently inhibited hepatoma cells than photosensitizer alone, through induction of apoptosis, both in vivo and in vitro.
CXCR4 Chemokine Receptor Signaling Mediates Pain in Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Menichella Daniela Maria , Abdelhak Belmadani , Ren Dongjun , Shum Andrew , Frietag Caroline , Miller Richard J
Published: June 2014

Background:

Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) is a debilitating syndrome present in a quarter of diabetic patients that has a substantial impact on their quality of life. Despite this significant prevalence and impact, current therapies for PDN are only partially effective. Moreover, the cellular mechanisms underlying PDN are not well understood. Neuropathic pain is caused by a variety of phenomena including sustained excitability in sensory neurons that reduces the pain threshold so that pain is produced in the absence of appropriate stimuli. Chemokine signaling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain in a variety of animal models. We therefore tested the hypothesis that chemokine signaling mediates DRG neuronal hyperexcitability in association with PDN.

Results:

We demonstrated that intraperitoneal administration of the specific CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 reversed PDN in two animal models of type II diabetes. Furthermore DRG sensory neurons acutely isolated from diabetic mice displayed enhanced SDF-1 induced calcium responses. Moreover, we demonstrated that CXCR4 receptors are expressed by a subset of DRG sensory neurons. Finally, we observed numerous CXCR4 expressing inflammatory cells infiltrating into the DRG of diabetic mice.

Conclusions:

These data suggest that CXCR4/SDF-1 signaling mediates enhanced calcium influx and excitability in DRG neurons responsible for PDN. Simultaneously, CXCR4/SDF-1 signaling may coordinate inflammation in diabetic DRG that could contribute to the development of pain in diabetes. Therefore, targeting CXCR4 chemokine receptors may represent a novel intervention for treating PDN.
Prevalence of HBsAg and knowledge about hepatitis B in pregnancy in the Buea Health District, Cameroon: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Frambo Andreas A Besong , Atashili Julius , Fon Peter Nde , Ndumbe Peter Martins
Published: June 2014

Background

Although infection with Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) remains a global public health problem, little is known about its epidemiology in pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa. This study sought to determine the prevalence of, and identify factors associated with hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity among pregnant women in the Buea Health District (BHD) in rural Cameroon. We also assessed pregnant women’s knowledge about hepatitis B.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive study was undertaken. Participants were evaluated using a structured questionnaire with clinical examination and were then screened for HBsAg using a commercial rapid diagnostic test. Assessment of knowledge was done using a hepatitis B basic knowledge summary score.

Results

Of the 176 pregnant women studied, 9.7% (95% CI: 5.7%, 15%) tested positive for HBsAg. None of the risk factors assessed was significantly associated with HBsAg positivity. The hepatitis B knowledge summary score ranged from 0 to 12 with a mean of 1.5 (SD = 3.14, median = 0, IQR = 0 to 0). Only 16% of participants had scores greater than 6/12. The knowledge summary score of the participants was associated with the educational level (p-value = 0.0037).

Conclusion

The high prevalence of HBsAg (9.7%) among women of child bearing age suggests that vertical transmission of HBV may be a public health problem in Buea Health District. Knowledge of HBV among pregnant women was poor. We recommend that all pregnant women ought to be routinely screened for HBV and that health education on HBV should be provided to pregnant women especially during antenatal visits.
Biomechanical evaluation of a biomimetic spinal construct
Authors: Wang Tian , Ball Jonathon R , Pelletier Mattew H , Walsh William R
Published: June 2014

Background

Laboratory spinal biomechanical tests using human cadaveric or animal spines have limitations in terms of disease transmission, high sample variability, decay and fatigue during extended testing protocols. Therefore, a synthetic biomimetic spine model may be an acceptable substitute. The goal of current study is to evaluate the properties of a synthetic biomimetic spine model; also to assess the mechanical performance of lateral plating following lateral interbody fusion.

Methods

Three L3/4 synthetic spinal motion segments were examined using a validated pure moment testing system. Moments (±7.5 Nm) were applied in flexion-extension (FE), lateral bending (LB) and axial rotation (AR) at 1Hz for total 10000 cycles in MTS Bionix. An additional test was performed 12 hours after 10000 cycles. A ±10 Nm cycle was also performed to allow provide comparison to the literature. For implantation evaluation, each model was tested in the 4 following conditions: 1) intact, 2) lateral cage alone, 3) lateral cage and plate 4) anterior cage and plate. Results were analysed using ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey’s HSD test.

Results

Range of motion (ROM) exhibited logarithmic growth with cycle number (increases of 16%, 37.5% and 24.3% in AR, FE and LB respectively). No signification difference (p > 0.1) was detected between 4 cycles, 10000 cycles and 12 hour rest stages. All measured parameters were comparable to that of reported cadaveric values. The ROM for a lateral cage and plate construct was not significantly different to the anterior lumbar interbody construct for FE (p = 1.00), LB (p = 0.995) and AR (p = 0.837).

Conclusions

Based on anatomical and biomechanical similarities, the synthetic spine tested here provides a reasonable model to represent the human lumbar spine. Repeated testing did not dramatically alter biomechanics which may allow non-destructive testing between many different procedures and devices without the worry of carry over effects. Small intra-specimen variability and lack of biohazard makes this an attractive alternative for in vitro spine biomechanical testing. It also proved an acceptable surrogate for biomechanical testing, confirming that a lateral lumbar interbody cage and plate construct reduces ROM to a similar degree as anterior lumbar interbody cage and plate constructs.