bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute headache and persistent headache attributed to cervical artery dissection: Field testing of ICHD-III beta
Authors: Schytz Henrik W , Ashina Messoud , Magyari Melinda , Larsen Vibeke A , Olesen Jes , Iversen Helle K
Published: February 2014

The criteria for headache attributed to cervical artery dissection have been changed in the new third edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-III beta). We have retrospectively investigated 19 patients diagnosed from 2001 to 2006 with cervical artery dissection at onset and followed them up six months after dissection.

At dissection onset 17/19 patients were classified as headache probably attributed to vascular disorder at the time of dissection using the ICHD second edition (ICHD-II) criteria. In contrast, 17/19 of patients fulfilled the ICHD-III beta criteria for Headache or facial or neck pain attributed to cervical carotid or vertebral artery dissection or Headache attributed to intracranial arterial dissection. Six months after dissection five of 19 patients still reported persistent headache attributed to dissection.

The study demonstrates that the ICHD-III beta criteria for cervical artery dissection are useful for classifying patients at the first encounter. We show for the first time that persistent headache attributed to arterial dissection is frequent.
Effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles and/or zinc chloride on biochemical parameters and mineral levels in rat liver and kidney
Authors: Amara S , Slama I Ben , Mrad I , Rihane N , Khemissi W , El Mir L , Rhouma K Ben , Abdelmelek H , Sakly M
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study was to assess the potential subacute toxicity of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) in Wistar rats in comparison with reference toxicant, zinc chloride (ZnCl2), of a non-nanoparticulate form. We therefore studied the relationships between zinc (Zn) accumulation, liver and kidney trace element levels, and plasmatic biochemical parameters. Rats in all groups were treated by intraperitoneal injection of ZnO NPs and/or ZnCl2 solution (25 mg/kg) every other day for 10 days. The contents of trace element in the liver and kidney were slightly modulated after ZnO NPs and/or ZnCl2 solution exposure. The same treatment increased the aspartate aminotransferase activity and uric acid concentration. However, ZnO NPs or ZnCl2 solution decreased the creatinine levels, whereas the combined intake of ZnO NPs and ZnCl2 decreased the glucose concentration. Interestingly, the analysis of the lyophilized powder of liver using the x-ray diffractometer showed the degradation of ZnO NPs in ZnO-treated group, instead there is a lack of NPs ZnO biosynthesis from the ZnCl2 solution injected in rats. These investigations suggest that combined injection of ZnO NPs and ZnCl2 solution has a possible toxic effect in rats. This effect could be related to Zn2+ ion release and accumulation of this element in organs. Our findings provide crucial information that ZnO appeared to be absorbed in the organs in an ionic form rather than in a particulate form.
Analytical engineering models for predicting high speed penetration of hard projectiles into concrete shields: A review
Authors: Ben-Dor G , Dubinsky A , Elperin T
Published: February 2014

We describe virtually all known analytical models for predicting protective properties of concrete shields against normal high-speed impact by rigid projectiles. Presented formulas can be directly used in practical calculations. Particular emphasis is given to widely used one-stage and two-stage models which are systemized in a hierarchical classification system using a unified approach. One-stage models employ the same formula along the whole trajectory of a projectile for calculating a force exerted on a penetrating projectile by a shield. In the case of two-stage models, a resistance force at the first stage of penetration is a linear function of the instantaneous depth of penetration while at the second stage of penetration normal stresses at every location on projectile-shield contact surface are polynomial function of normal velocity component. Conditions of continuity of the resistance force and velocity of a projectile are invoked in the transition point between these two sub-models. A wide variety of models can be devised by using different sub-models at each stage of penetration.
Trauma consults on humanitarian surgery trips: A perspective on the Haitian trauma system and the humanitarian’s role
Authors: Hugar Lee A , Dewberry Lindel C , deOlano Jonathan , Master Viraj A , Pattaras John G , Sullivan Cinnamon S , Srinivasan Jahnavi K
Published: February 2014

Ubiquitous access to surgical care, especially trauma surgery, is recognized as an essential component of public health. We present two trauma cases—an upper arm machete laceration and a penetrating chest wound—that highlight barriers facing trauma patients in Haiti and describe how it relates to humanitarian surgery trips. An Emory University student–faculty collaborative, partnering with the non-profit Project Medishare (PM) for Haiti since 2008, provides elective and urgent surgical care to the underserved population of the Haitian Central Plateau. This partnership collaborates with a main referral center known for providing quality surgical care at little or no cost. Elective urological and general surgical cases comprise the bulk of the case load but urgent trauma services have been provided when required. Future trauma system initiatives must focus on increasing access to vehicles, telecommunications, and first responders. Our recommendations are reinforced by preliminary results from a trauma needs assessment performed in the Central Plateau and surrounding departments during July 2013. Humanitarian teams can contribute by preparing for emergencies prior to departure and sharing new procedural knowledge with local providers. Supplementing the ability to intercede in emergency surgical situations furthers the goal of short-term surgical trips to diminish indigenous patient morbidity and mortality. We advocate extensive preparation for such situations and increased bidirectional knowledge sharing with local staff.
Effect of intake air temperature and air–fuel ratio on particulates in gasoline and n-butanolfueled homogeneous charge compression ignition engine
Authors: Maurya Rakesh K , Agarwal Avinash K
Published: February 2014

An experimental study was conducted to investigate the effect of engine operating parameters on exhaust particulate size–number distribution in a homogeneous charge compression ignition engine fueled with gasoline and n-butanol. In this investigation, portfuel injection was done for preparing homogeneous charge, and intake air preheating was used for auto-ignition of the charge. Engine exhaust particle sizer was used for measuring size–number distribution of particulate matter emitted from the homogeneous charge compression ignition engine. Experiments were conducted at different engine speeds by varying intake air temperature and air–fuel ratio of the charge. Effect of engine operating parameters on particulate size–number distribution, size–surface area distribution, and total particulate number concentration was investigated. Most significant particle numbers were in the range of 6–150 nm mobility diameter for all test conditions. n-Butanol showed relatively higher peak number concentration and lower mobility diameter corresponding to the peak concentrations as compared to baseline gasoline. On increasing intake air temperature, mobility diameters corresponding to peak number concentration of particles moved towards lower mobility diameters. Count mean diameter of particles was in the range of 35–80 nm and 20–65 nm for gasoline and n-butanol, respectively, for all test conditions in homogeneous charge compression ignition operating range.
How do authenticity dramas develop? An analysis of Afterhours fans’ responses to the band’s participation in the Sanremo music festival
Authors: Corciolani Matteo
Published: February 2014

Building on Giesler’s ((2008) ‘Conflict and Compromise: Drama in Marketplace Evolution’, Journal of Consumer Research 34(6), 739–53) concept of marketplace drama, I introduce the idea of an authenticity drama. I view an authenticity drama as a sequential process through which, owing to an object’s authenticity being undermined as a result of external market forces acting upon the object, or due to internal changes in the object itself, opposing groups of subjects (e.g. consumers and producers) interact dialectically in order to negotiate and transform their contradictory views of authenticity and inauthenticity over time. Specifically, I focus on popular music and use netnography and in-depth interviews to investigate consumers’ reactions to an independent band’s decision to participate in a commercial, mainstream festival. The findings show that consumers play an important role in both the deconstruction and reconstruction of the band’s authenticity. However, I also provide evidence that brand (in this case, the band) narratives play a fundamental role in orienting this process. I also discuss the theoretical implications of the findings.
Improving College Campus–Based Prevention of Violence Against Women
Authors: Banyard Victoria L.
Published: February 2014

Growing awareness of the scope of violence against women (VAW) on college campuses has led to innovations in intervention and prevention These efforts have often followed best practices in prevention, have targeted different campus populations, and used varied tools. Prevention evaluation on campuses is increasing. This review briefly summarizes what we have learned about preventing VAW on campus from evaluation research and then describes a roadmap for where research needs to go. To date, most work focuses almost exclusively on sexual violence, concentrates on single programs on one campus, focuses on attitude outcomes, and most research explores main effects of program utility. More complex prevention and research models are needed including the use of multipronged prevention approaches and researching their synergistic effects; investigation of more specific program effects to better unpack what essential elements of different prevention tools are driving changes; and more complex analyses of outcomes including exploration of moderating variables. This research agenda has implications for new programs, policies, and research designs including the importance of partnerships between practitioners and researchers to actualize these goals.
County Governments and Democratic Decision Making: Explaining Why Counties Seek Approval of Local Option Sales Taxes
Authors: Green Andrew D.
Published: February 2014

Local option sales taxes have become an important source of local revenue across the United States. Thirty-three of the 50 states have granted authorization to their counties or cities (or both) to levy local option sales taxes, and said taxes generated nearly $50 billion in 2005, which accounted for 11% of all local tax revenue nationwide. Even though local option sales taxes have significant impacts on a county's ability to fund programs and services, little has been written about the decisions of counties to place such taxes on the ballot. Using demographic, fiscal, and political variables, a model is developed that explains the decision to place a county transportation sales tax on the ballot. Modeling and analysis reveal that counties behave strategically as the impact of demographic, fiscal, and political factors on the decision to place a local option sales tax on the ballot is shaped by whether the county is making an initial attempt to adopt, a subsequent attempt to adopt after voter rejection, or a renewal attempt when an existing local option sales tax is nearing its sunset date.
Postpolypectomy haemorrhage following removal of large polyps using mechanical haemostasis or epinephrine: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Corte Crispin J , Burger Daniel C , Horgan Gareth , Bailey Adam A , East James E
Published: February 2014

Background and aim

Postpolypectomy haemorrhage (PPH) is a known adverse event that can occur following polypectomy, occurring in 0.3–6.1% of cases. Previous meta‐analysis has included small polyps, which are less likely to bleed, and less amenable to some methods of mechanical haemostasis. No comprehensive cost–benefit analysis of this topic is available. The aim of this study was to perform a meta‐analysis of randomized trials and a cost–benefit analysis of prophylactic haemostasis in PPH.

Methods

A total of 3092 abstracts from prospective trials conducted in human colonoscopic polypectomy were screened. Outpatients undergoing polypectomy in seven suitable studies (1426 episodes), without polyposis syndromes or bleeding diathesis, were identified. The interventions of prophylactic haemostatic measures (clips, loops, and/or adrenaline injection) to prevent PPH were assessed. The main outcome measurements were PPH measured by haematochezia or drop in haematocrit >10% or haemoglobin >1 g/dl. Risk ratio and number needed to treat (NNT) were generated using meta‐analysis.

Results

Comparing any prophylactic haemostasis to none, the pooled risk ratio for PPH was 0.35 (0.21–0.57; p  < 0.0001), NNT was 13.6, and cost to prevent one PPH was USD652. Using adrenaline alone vs. no prophylactic haemostasis revealed a pooled risk ratio of 0.37 (0.20–0.66; p  = 0.001), NNT 14.0, cost to prevent one PPH USD382. Any prophylactic mechanical haemostasis compared to adrenaline produced a RR for PPH of 0.28 (0.14–0.57; p  < 0.0001), NNT 12.3, and cost to prevent one PPH USD1368.

Conclusions

Adrenaline injection or mechanical haemostasis reduces the risk of PPH. Routine prophylactic measures to reduce PPH for polyps larger than 10 mm are potentially cost effective, although more thorough cost–benefit modelling is required.
shRNA screening identifies JMJD1C as being required for leukemia maintenance
Authors: Sroczynska Patrycja , Cruickshank V. Adam , Bukowski John-Paul , Miyagi Satoru , Bagger Frederik Otzen , Walfridsson Julian , Schuster Mikkel Bruhn , Porse Bo , Helin Kristian
Published: February 2014

Key Points

JMJD1C is required for leukemia maintenance. JMJD1C is a potential therapeutic target in leukemia.
Tiam1/Rac1 signals contribute to the proliferation and chemoresistance, but not motility, of chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells
Authors: Hofbauer Sebastian W. , Krenn Peter W. , Ganghammer Sylvia , Asslaber Daniela , Pichler Ulrike , Oberascher Karin , Henschler Reinhard , Wallner Michael , Kerschbaum Hubert , Greil Richard , Hartmann Tanja N.
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Motility of resting CLL cells requires chemokine-mediated RhoA activation but is independent of Tiam1/Rac signals. Tiam1/Rac signals are indispensible for CLL cell proliferation and chemoresistance.
Deletion of Fanca or Fancd2 dysregulates Treg in mice
Authors: Du Wei , Erden Ozlem , Wilson Andrew , Sipple Jared M. , Schick Jonathan , Mehta Parinda , Myers Kasiani C. , Steinbrecher Kris A. , Davies Stella M. , Pang Qishen
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Deletion of Fanca or Fancd2 dysregulates the activity and function of regulatory T cells. The loss of FA proteins alters the expression of Foxp3 target genes.
Diagnosis and treatment of asthma in athletes
Authors: Couto Mariana , Moreira André , Delgado Luís
Published: February 2014

Educational aims

To increase awareness in physicians for a prevalent but manageable health problem among athletes.

To describe the strategies to diagnose asthma in athletes and the most common differential diagnoses.

To improve physicians' confidence in dealing with international guidelines and treating these patients.
Update on small cell lung cancer management
Authors: Huber Rudolf M. , Tufman Amanda
Published: February 2014

Educational aims

To describe the relevance of staging, including TNM staging

To show the clinical relevance of paraneoplastic syndromes as a presentation of small cell lung cancer

To understand the indications for prophylactic cranial irradiation

To describe the treatment principles in small cell lung cancer with emphasis on the relevance of staging

To outline the second-line treatment options

Small cell lung cancers (SCLCs) account for ∼15–20% of all lung cancers. Because SCLC is almost always associated with long-term tobacco smoking, abstinence from smoking and smoking cessation are crucial for primary prevention. Because symptoms are generally unspecific, the disease is often diagnosed late, with 70% of patients already in stage IIIb or IV at the time of diagnosis. Early detection of SCLC through screening is under investigation. Chemotherapy, generally a platinum-based combination, is the mainstay of therapy and is generally combined with radiation in the first-line treatment of tumours up to stage IIIb. Surgery has a place in the diagnosis and therapy of stage I SCLC, but plays no key role in advanced cancer. In patients who respond to first-line therapy, prophylactic cranial irradiation can prevent brain metastases and improve overall survival. Although the initial response to treatment is usually good, SCLC tends to relapse quickly. This makes second-line therapy quite important. Topotecan is the most studied and widely used agent in second-line therapy; however, newer agents, including biological therapies, are under study.
Physical training: vital for survival and quality of life in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Lannefors Louise
Published: February 2014

Educational aims

To understand the current standard of care for cystic fibrosis patients.

To appreciate the benefits of incorporating physical activity into patient care.

To explain how physical activity can be incorporated into individual patients’ programmes.

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease requiring multidisciplinary care. Treatment is symptomatic, but increasingly preventative rather than reactive. Physical activity is becoming part of the standard of care and appears equally as efficacious as traditional methods, and is time efficient with numerous studies demonstrating clinical benefit.
Genome survey sequencing provides clues into glucosinolate biosynthesis and flowering pathway evolution in allotetrapolyploid Brassica juncea
Authors: Yang Jinghua , Song Ning , Zhao Xuan , Qi Xiaohua , Hu Zhongyuan , Zhang Mingfang
Published: February 2014

Background

Brassica juncea is an economically important vegetable crop in China, oil crop in India, condiment crop in Europe and selected for canola quality recently in Canada and Australia. B. juncea (2n = 36, AABB) is an allotetraploid derived from interspecific hybridization between B. rapa (2n = 20, AA) and B. nigra (2n = 16, BB), followed by spontaneous chromosome doubling.

Results

Comparative genome analysis by genome survey sequence (GSS) of allopolyploid B. juncea with B. rapa was carried out based on high-throughput sequencing approaches. Over 28.35 Gb of GSS data were used for comparative analysis of B. juncea and B. rapa, producing 45.93% reads mapping to the B. rapa genome with a high ratio of single-end reads. Mapping data suggested more structure variation (SV) in the B. juncea genome than in B. rapa. We detected 2,921,310 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with high heterozygosity and 113,368 SVs, including 1-3 bp Indels, between B. juncea and B. rapa. Non-synonymous polymorphisms in glucosinolate biosynthesis genes may account for differences in glucosinolate biosynthesis and glucosinolate components between B. juncea and B. rapa. Furthermore, we identified distinctive vernalization-dependent and photoperiod-dependent flowering pathways coexisting in allopolyploid B. juncea, suggesting contribution of these pathways to adaptation for survival during polyploidization.

Conclusions

Taken together, we proposed that polyploidization has allowed for accelerated evolution of the glucosinolate biosynthesis and flowering pathways in B. juncea that likely permit the phenotypic variation observed in the crop.
Development process and cognitive testing of CARATkids - Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test for children
Authors: Borrego Luís Miguel , Fonseca João Almeida , Pereira Ana Margarida , Pinto Vera Reimão , Linhares Daniela , Morais-Almeida Mário
Published: February 2014

Background

Allergic rhinitis and asthma (ARA) are chronic inflammatory diseases of the airways that often coexist in children. The only tool to assess the ARA control, the Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test (CARAT) is to be used by adults. We aimed to develop the Pediatric version of Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test (CARATkids) and to test its comprehensibility in children with 4 to 12 years of age.

Methods

The questionnaire development included a literature review of pediatric questionnaires on asthma and/or rhinitis control and two consensus meetings of a multidisciplinary group. Cognitive testing was carried out in a cross-sectional qualitative study using cognitive interviews.

Results

Four questionnaires to assess asthma and none to assess rhinitis control in children were identified. The multidisciplinary group produced a questionnaire version for children with 17 questions with illustrations and dichotomous (yes/no) response format. The version for caregivers had 4-points and dichotomous scales. Twenty-nine children, 4 to 12 years old, and their caregivers were interviewed. Only children over 6 years old could adequately answer the questionnaire. A few words/expressions were not fully understood by children of 6 to 8 years old. The drawings illustrating the questions were considered helpful by children and caregivers. Caregivers considered the questionnaire complete and clear and preferred dichotomous over the 4-points scales. The proportion of agreement between children and their caregivers was 61%. The words/expressions that were difficult to understand were amended.

Conclusion

CARATkids, the first questionnaire to assess a child’s asthma and rhinitis control was developed and its content validity was assured. Cognitive testing showed that CARATKids is well-understood by children 6 to 12 years old. The questionnaire’s measurement properties can now be assessed in a validation study.
Development of very large electrode arrays for epiretinal stimulation (VLARS)
Authors: Waschkowski Florian , Hesse Stephan , Rieck Anne Christine , Lohmann Tibor , Brockmann Claudia , Laube Thomas , Bornfeld Norbert , Thumann Gabriele , Walter Peter , Mokwa Wilfried , Johnen Sandra , Roessler Gernot
Published: February 2014

Background

Retinal implants have been developed to treat blindness causing retinal degenerations such as Retinitis pigmentosa (RP). The retinal stimulators are covering only a small portion of the retina usually in its center. To restore not only central vision but also a useful visual field retinal stimulators need to cover a larger area of the retina. However, large area retinal stimulators are much more difficult to implant into an eye. Some basic questions concerning this challenge should be answered in a series of experiments.

Methods

Large area retinal stimulators were fabricated as flexible multielectrode arrays (MEAs) using silicon technology with polyimide as the basic material for the substrate. Electrodes were made of gold covered with reactively sputtered iridium oxide. Several prototype designs were considered and implanted into enucleated porcine eyes. The prototype MEAs were also used as recording devices.

Results

Large area retinal stimulator MEAs were fabricated with a diameter of 12 mm covering a visual angle of 37.6° in a normal sighted human eye. The structures were flexible enough to be implanted in a folded state through an insertion nozzle. The implants could be positioned onto the retinal surface and fixated here using a retinal tack. Recording of spontaneous activity of retinal neurons was possible in vitro using these devices.

Conclusions

Large flexible MEAs covering a wider area of the retina as current devices could be fabricated using silicon technology with polyimide as a base material. Principal surgical techniques were established to insert such large devices into an eye and the devices could also be used for recording of retinal neural activity.
Nickel Nanoparticles cause exaggerated lung and airway remodeling in mice lacking the T-box transcription factor, TBX21 (T-bet)
Authors: Glista-Baker Ellen E , Taylor Alexia J , Sayers Brian C , Thompson Elizabeth A , Bonner James C
Published: February 2014

Background

Nickel nanoparticles (NiNPs) are increasingly used in a variety of industrial applications, including the manufacturing of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). While occupational nickel exposure is a known cause of pulmonary alveolitis, fibrosis, and cancer, the health risks of NiNPs are not well understood, especially in susceptible individuals such as asthmatics. The T-box transcription factor Tbx21 (T-bet) maintains Th1 cell development and loss of T-bet is associated with a shift towards Th2 type allergic airway inflammation that characterizes asthma. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of T-bet in susceptibility to lung remodeling by NiNPs or MWCNTs.

Methods

Wild-type (WT) and T-bet-/-mice were exposed to NiNPs or MWCNTs (4 mg/kg) by oropharyngeal aspiration (OPA). Necropsy was performed at 1 and 21 days. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected for differential counting of inflammatory cells and for measurement of cytokines by ELISA. The left lung was collected for histopathology. The right lung was analyzed for cytokine or mucin (MUC5AC and MUC5B) mRNAs.

Results

Morphometry of alcian-blue/periodic acid Schiff (AB/PAS)-stained lung tissue showed that NiNPs significantly increased mucous cell metaplasia in T-bet-/-mice at 21 days (p < 0.001) compared to WT mice, and increased MUC5AC and MUC5B mRNAs (p < 0.05). MWCNTs also increased mucous cell metaplasia in T-bet-/-mice, but to a lesser extent than NiNPs. Chronic alveolitis was also increased by NiNPs, but not MWCNTs, in T-bet-/-mice compared to WT mice at 21 days (P < 0.001). NiNPs also increased IL-13 and eosinophils (p < 0.001) in BALF from T-bet-/-mice after 1 day. Interestingly, the chemokine CCL2 in the BALF of T-bet-/-mice was increased at 1 and 21 days (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively) by NiNPs, and to a lesser extent by MWCNTs at 1 day. Treatment of T-bet-/-mice with a monoclonal anti-CCL2 antibody enhanced NiNP-induced mucous cell metaplasia and MUC5AC mRNA levels (p < 0.05), yet marginally reduced NiNP-induced alveolitis.

Conclusion

These findings identify T-bet as a potentially important susceptibility factor for NiNP exposure and to a lesser extent for MWCNT exposure, and suggests that individuals with asthma are at greater risk.
Efficacy of intraarticular botulinum toxin A and intraarticular hyaluronate plus rehabilitation exercise in patients with unilateral ankle osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sun Shu‐Fen , Hsu Chien‐Wei , Lin Huey‐Shyan , Chou Yi‐Jiun , Chen Jun‐Yang , Wang Jue‐Long
Published: February 2014

Background

There was an increasing requirement for novel treatments of osteoarthritis (OA). The aim was to compare the efficacy of intraarticular Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT‐A) and intraarticular hyaluronate plus rehabilitation exercise in patients with ankle OA.

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized, assessor‐blinded study with a 6‐month follow‐up period, conducted in the outpatient rehabilitation department at a university‐affiliated tertiary care medical center. Seventy‐five patients with symptomatic ankle OA (Kellgren‐Lawrence grade 2) were randomized to receive either a single 100‐unit BoNT‐A injection into the target ankle (n = 38) or a single hyaluronate injection plus 12 sessions of rehabilitation exercise (30 minutes/day, 3 times/week for 4 weeks) (n = 37). The primary outcome measure was the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS). Secondary outcome measures included American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle/Hindfoot Score, visual analog scale (VAS) for ankle pain, single leg stance test (SLS), Timed “Up‐and‐Go” test (TUG), consumption of rescue analgesics and global patient satisfaction.

Results

There were no significant between‐group differences in total AOS scores, pain subscale and disability subscale scores (adjusted mean difference AMD = ‐0.2, 95% CI = (‐0.5, 0.2), p = 0.39; AMD = ‐0.1, 95% CI = (‐0.5, 0.3), p = 0.57; AMD = ‐0.2, 95% CI = (‐0.6, 0.2), p = 0.36). The 2 groups showed no significant differences in AOFAS, VAS, SLS, TUG scores and consumption of rescue analgesics at each follow‐up visit, except that the hyaluronate group improved more in SLS than the BoNT‐A group at 1‐month follow‐up. Patients' satisfaction rate was high, with no serious adverse events. There was no difference in adverse events between the two groups (p = 1.00).

Conclusions

Treatment with intraarticular BoNT‐A or hyaluronate injection plus rehabilitation exercise was associated with improvements in pain, physical function and balance in patients with ankle OA. These effects were rapid at 2 weeks and might last for at least 6 months. There was no difference in effectiveness between the two interventions.

Trial registration

The trial was registered at clinical trials.gov (Registry number NCT01760577).
Novel three-dimensional in vitro models of ovarian endometriosis
Authors: Brueggmann Doerthe , Templeman Claire , Starzinski-Powitz Anna , Rao Nagesh P , Gayther Simon A , Lawrenson Kate
Published: February 2014

Background

Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of functional endometrial tissue outside of the uterine cavity. It affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. This chronic condition commonly leads to consequences such as pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, infertility and an elevated risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Despite the prevalence of endometriosis and its impact on women’s lives, there are relatively few in vitro and in vivo models available for studying the complex disease biology, pathophysiology, and for use in the preclinical development of novel therapies. The goal of this study was to develop a novel three-dimensional (3D) cell culture model of ovarian endometriosis and to test whether it is more reflective of endometriosis biology than traditional two dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures.

Methods

A novel ovarian endometriosis epithelial cell line (EEC16) was isolated from a 34-year old female with severe endometriosis. After characterization of cells using in vitro assays, western blotting and RNA-sequencing, this cell line and a second, already well characterized endometriosis cell line, EEC12Z, were established as in vitro 3D spheroid models. We compared biological features of 3D spheroids to 2D cultures and human endometriosis lesions using immunohistochemistry and real-time semi-quantitative PCR.

Results

In comparison to normal ovarian epithelial cells, EEC16 displayed features of neoplastic transformation in in vitro assays. When cultured in 3D, EEC16 and EEC12Z showed differential expression of endometriosis-associated genes compared to 2D monolayer cultures, and more closely mimicked the molecular and histological features of human endometriosis lesions.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this represents the first report of an in vitro spheroid model of endometriosis. 3D endometriosis models represent valuable experimental tools for studying EEC biology and the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
Faecal levels of calprotectin in systemic sclerosis are stable over time and are higher compared to primary Sjögren’s syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Andréasson Kristofer , Saxne Tore , Scheja Agneta , Bartosik Izabela , Mandl Thomas , Hesselstrand Roger
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Faecal calprotectin (FC) has been proposed to be a biomarker of gastrointestinal (GI) disease in systemic sclerosis (SSc). The purpose of this study was to extend cross-sectional observations and prospectively assess the variability of FC over time in SSc patients. We also aimed to examine FC in relation to immunosuppressive therapy. Finally we wanted to analyse FC in other rheumatic diseases to evaluate the specificity of FC for SSc GI disease.

Methods

FC was measured in consecutive patients with SSc, primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in healthy hospital workers. The intraindividual variability of FC in SSc was assessed with intra class correlation (ICC) and κ statistics. Associations between FC and objective markers of GI disease and immunosuppressive medication were investigated.

Results

FC was associated with micronutrient deficiency and GI pathology as assessed by cineradiography confirming our previous results. FC showed only a limited intra-individual variation in SSc, ICC = 0.69 (95% confidence interval, CI: 0.57-0.78) and κ = 0.64 (95% CI: 0.56-0.73). Generalised immunosuppression did not have any significant impact on FC. FC was significantly higher in SSc patients compared to patients with pSS or RA as well as compared to healthy subjects.

Conclusions

FC is a promising non-invasive biomarker for GI disease in SSc. In view of stable levels over time, FC could be a useful marker when novel, more specific drugs targeting the GI tract in SSc will be introduced.
Lost and Never Found: The Queer Archive of Feelings and Its Historical Propriety
Authors: Edenheim Sara
Published: February 2014

In the ongoing research and activism concerning the queer archive of feelings, few historians have openly engaged in the discussion on the limits and possibilities of the archive. This article, written by a historian, provides a critical perspective on this debate and an analysis of historicity, historical methodology and, foremost, fantasy. Does the “scholar’s archive,” as defined by Ann Cvetkovich, even exist? Is there really such an unambiguous difference between the historian’s view on the traditional archive, filled with bureaucratic waste, and the allegedly radical archive of feelings, consisting of ephemera and “feelings”? Is it not with the future in mind that both the historian and the queer archivist insist on conserving documents and feelings alike? Such questions lead to a discussion on the importance of not giving up the Lacanian definition of the negative as applied by Lee Edelman. The author claims that it is through a deradicalizing (or rather depsychoanalyzing) of the negative that the idea of a queer archive loses its way. The implications of the negative on queer theory and politics are brought up through analysis of an art exhibition featuring internationally established queer artists and described as a unique and radical queer archival activism that scorns the traditional archive for excluding (queer) feelings. Following Edelman, this article reaches a different conclusion, wherein the traditional archive may be seen in a new light—or rather, in a new darkness where the dead are painfully absent and helpless, reminding us of the meaninglessness of reproductive futurism.
Recovery of otoacoustic emissions after high-level noise exposure in the American bullfrog
Authors: Simmons Dwayne D. , Lohr Rachel , Wotring Helena , Burton Miriam D. , Hooper Rebecca A. , Baird Richard A.
Published: February 2014

The American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) has an amphibian papilla (AP) that senses airborne, low-frequency sound and generates distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) similar to other vertebrate species. Although ranid frogs are typically found in noisy environments, the effects of noise on the AP have not been studied. First, we determined the noise levels that diminished DPOAE at 2f1-f2 using an f2 stimulus level at 80 dB SPL and that also produced morphological damage of the sensory epithelium. Second, we compared DPOAE (2f1-f2) responses with histopathologic changes occurring in bullfrogs after noise exposure. Consistent morphological damage such as fragmented hair cells and missing bundles as well as elimination of DPOAE responses were seen only after very high-level (>150 dB SPL) sound exposures. The morphological response of hair cells to noise differed along the mediolateral AP axis: medial hair cells were sensitive to noise and lateral hair cells were relatively insensitive to noise. Renewed or repaired hair cells were not observed until 9 days post exposure. Following noise exposure, DPOAE responses disappeared within 24 hours and then recovered to normal pre-exposure levels within 3 – 4 days. Our results suggest that DPOAEs in the bullfrog are sensitive to the initial period of hair cell damage. After noise-induce damage, the bullfrog AP has functional recovery mechanisms that do not depend on substantial hair cell regeneration or repair. Thus, the bullfrog auditory system might serve as an interesting model for investigations of ways to prevent noise damage.
Anterior lateral line nerve encoding to tones and play back vocalisations in free swimming oyster toadfish, Opsanus tau
Authors: Radford Craig A. , Mensinger Allen F.
Published: February 2014

In the underwater environment, sound propagates both as a pressure wave and particle motion, with particle motions dominating close to the source. At the receptor level, the fish ear and the neuromast hair cells act as displacement detectors, and both are potentially stimulated by the particle motion component of sound. The encoding of the anterior lateral line nerve to acoustic stimuli in freely behaving oyster toadfish, Opsanus tau, was examined. Nerve sensitivity and directional responses were determined using spike rate and vector strength analysis, a measure of phase-locking of spike times to the stimulus waveform. All units showed greatest sensitivity to 100 Hz stimulus. While sensitivity was independent of stimulus orientation, the neuron's ability to phase-lock was correlated with stimuli origin. Two different types of units were classified, Type 1 (tonic), and Type 2 (phasic). The Type 1 fibers were further classified into two sub-types based on their frequency response (Type 1-1 and Type 1-2), which was hypothesised to be related to canal (Type 1-1) and superficial (Type 1-2) neuromast innervation. Lateral line units also exhibited sensitivity and phase locking to boatwhistle vocalisations, with greatest spike rates exhibited at the onset of the call. These results provide direct evidence that oyster toadfish can use their lateral line to detect behaviourally relevant acoustic stimuli, which could provide a sensory pathway to aid in sound source localisation.
Temperature mediates the effect of humidity on the viscoelasticity of glycoprotein glue within the droplets of an orb-weaving spider's prey capture threads
Authors: Stellwagen Sarah , Opell Brent , Short Kelly
Published: February 2014

Sticky viscous prey capture threads retain insects that strike araneoid orb-webs. The threads' two axial fibers support a series of glue droplets, each featuring a core of adhesive viscoelastic glycoprotein covered by an aqueous solution. After sticking, the glue extends, summing the adhesion of multiple droplets, and dissipates some of the energy of a struggling prey. As a day progresses, threads experience a drop in humidity and an increase in temperature, environmental variables that have the potential to alter thread and web function. We hypothesize that thread droplets respond to these opposing environmental changes in a manner that stabilizes their performance and test this by examining threads spun by Argiope aurantia, a species that occupies exposed, weedy habitats. We confirmed that decreased humidity increases glycoprotein viscosity and found that increased temperature had the opposite effect. To evaluate the combined effect of temperature and humidity on a droplet's ability to transfer adhesive force and dissipate energy, we extended a droplet and measured both the deflection of the axial line supporting the droplet and the duration of its tensive load. The cumulative product of these two indices, which reflects the energy required to extend a droplet, was greatest under afternoon (hot and dry) conditions, less under morning (cool and humid), and least under hot & humid afternoon conditions. Although the opposing effects of temperature and humidity tend to stabilize glycoprotein performance, A. aurantia thread droplets appear to function optimally during the afternoon, equipping this species to capture large orthopterans, which are most active at this time.
Numerical Study of Confined Explosions in Urban Environments
Authors: Codina Ramón H. , Ambrosini Daniel , de Borbón Fernanda
Published: February 2014

In recent years, events such as the attack on the World Trade Center as well as many other attacks around the world have shown that terrorism-related activity is dramatically increasing. Such a situation makes necessary to study the effects of blast loading on complex urban environments. In this paper, the phenomenon of channelling in congested urban environments is studied. Channelling is a phenomenon that can significantly increase the destructive potential of a shock wave of an explosion. Hence, channelling must be taken into account in the design of structures subjected to extreme loads in congested urban environments. This paper presents a novel approach to understanding channelling effects using maps of overpressure amplification and impulse amplification. These maps are developed for different street widths and amounts and locations of explosive loads and could be used as a first approximation for design purposes. The characteristic channelling zones are defined and characterised for the first time in the open technical literature. Finally, quantitative conclusions about the influence of the different parameters are highlighted.
Discriminatory Use of Police Stop-and-Search Powers in London, UK
Authors: Yesufu Shaka
Published: February 2014

Black Londoners have complained over the years of being overpoliced and harassed by police officers. The history of such contentious encounters between members of the Black community and the police service dates back to the 1970s, an era that was characterised by the implementation of the ‘Suspicion Laws’, popularly referred to as the ‘Sus Laws’, which emanated from the legislation of the Vagrancy Act of 1824. It was an era most Black people would prefer not to talk about because of the oppressive encounters they experienced with the police. This paper has three purposes: first, to highlight the history of police abuses of power in relation to dealing with Black Londoners in a discriminatory way; second, to explore the issue of societal racism, facilitated by the trio of concepts of prejudice, stereotyping and racial discrimination; third, to encourage the debate on police accountability by discouraging the discriminatory policing that permeates UK society.
Police Managers' Attitudes towards a US Marine Corps Military Model: Responses to Corps Business
Authors: Kunselman Julie , Vito Gennaro F. , Walsh William F.
Published: February 2014

Historically, police departments have been modelled both structurally and operationally on quasi-military lines. This paper presents reactions of police managers who attended the Administrative Officers Course at the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville, who analysed David Freedman's book, Corps Business. This work presents 30 management principles practised by the US Marine Corps. Students were asked to rate the five best and five worst practices as they applied to police management. Their responses provide a timely analysis of the status of the linkage between police management and the military model.
Changes in the pattern of programmes in contemporary Chinese radio: Helping each other in Beijing: A case study
Authors: Wei Meng , Lu Cao
Published: February 2014

Since the 1980s big changes have been taking place in the character of China’s radio programmes. Radio’s role has changed, from a propaganda tool of the government to a medium seeking to meet the multifarious needs of its listeners. Under the ‘socialist market economy’ which was introduced in 1992, radio in China has become unashamedly market oriented. Its funding has moved from a complete dependency on the public purse to the independent pursuit of profit. With the aid of digital technology, the traditional forms of programming, which were dominated by a culture of writing and reading, have also been transformed into ones which involve audience interaction. This article is a case study of Helping Each Other in Beijing, a programme for the elderly which is broadcast on the public service frequency of Radio Beijing. It analyses the concept of the programme, its content, its interaction with the audience and the style of its presentation. In this fiercely competitive age of new media and globalization, it illustrates how Chinese broadcasters are developing a new programming philosophy, how they are developing a new relationship with the audience and how they are fashioning a new media image.
Nutrient concentrations in coarse and fine woody debris of Populus tremuloides Michx.-dominated forests, northern Minnesota, USA
Authors: Klockow Paul , D'Amato Anthony , Bradford John , Fraver Shawn
Published: February 2014

Contemporary forest harvesting practices, specifically harvesting woody biomass as a source of bioenergy feedstock, may remove more woody debris from a site than conventional harvesting. Woody debris, particularly smaller diameter woody debris, plays a key role in maintaining ecosystem nutrient stores following disturbance. Understanding nutrient concentrations within woody debris is necessary for assessing the long-term nutrient balance consequences of altered woody debris retention, particularly in forests slated for use as bioenergy feedstocks. Nutrient concentrations in downed woody debris of various sizes, decay classes, and species were characterized within one such forest type, Populus tremuloides Michx.-dominated forests of northern Minnesota, USA. Nutrient concentrations differed significantly between size and decay classes and generally increased as decay progressed. Fine woody debris (â¤â7.5 cm diameter) had higher nutrient concentrations than coarse woody debris (>â7.5 cm diameter) for all nutrients examined except Na and Mn, and nutrient concentrations varied among species. Concentrations of N, Mn, Al, Fe, and Zn in coarse woody debris increased between one and three orders of magnitude, while K decreased by an order of magnitude with progressing decay. The variations in nutrient concentrations observed here underscore the complexity of woody debris nutrient stores in forested ecosystems and suggest that retaining fine woody debris at harvest may provide a potentially important source of nutrients following intensive removals of bioenergy feedstocks.
Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome Confirmed with the Use of Intravascular Ultrasound
Authors: de Lara Fernando Vazquez , Higgins Christopher , Hernandez-Vila Eduardo A.
Published: February 2014

Median arcuate ligament syndrome, a rarely reported condition, is characterized by postprandial abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Its cause is unclear. We present the case of a 45-year-old woman who had intermittent chronic positional abdominal pain without weight loss. Magnetic resonance angiograms and computed tomograms revealed stenosis of the celiac artery. Ostial compression was confirmed on catheter angiographic and intravascular ultrasonographic images. Intravascular ultrasound revealed far greater stenosis than did the initial imaging methods and confirmed a diagnosis of median arcuate ligament syndrome. In lieu of surgery, the patient underwent a celiac ganglion block procedure that substantially relieved her symptoms.

To our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of intravascular ultrasound in the diagnosis of median arcuate ligament syndrome. We recommend using this imaging method preoperatively in other suspected cases of the syndrome, to better identify patients who might benefit from corrective surgery.