bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcranial direct current stimulation for treatment of freezing of gait: A cross‐over study
Authors: Valentino Francesca , Cosentino Giuseppe , Brighina Filippo , Pozzi Nicolò Gabriele , Sandrini Giorgio , Fierro Brigida , Savettieri Giovanni , D'Amelio Marco , Pacchetti Claudio
Published: April 2014

Background and objective

Progression of Parkinson's disease (PD) is frequently characterized by the occurrence of freezing of gait (FOG) representing a disabling motor complication. We aim to investigate safety and efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation of the primary motor cortex of PD patients with FOG.

Methods

In this cross‐over, double‐blind, sham‐controlled study, 10 PD patients with FOG persisting in “on” state underwent anodal and sham direct current stimulation for 5 consecutive days. Clinical assessment over a 1‐month period was performed.

Results

A significant improvement of gait, as assessed by the Stand Walk Sit test, with reduction in number and duration of FOG episodes, along with a significant reduction in the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale score, were observed after anodal stimulation. Beneficial effects were more evident after the entire 5‐day stimulation session, and persisted until the end of the observation period.

Conclusions

Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation of the motor cortex is safe and has therapeutic potential in PD patients with FOG. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Syndactylizing arterialized venous flaps for multiple finger injuries
Authors: Kayalar Murat , Levent Kucuk , Sugun Tahir Sadik , Gurbuz Yusuf , Savran Ahmet , Kaplan Ibrahim
Published: April 2014

Multiple soft tissue finger defects in different shapes and locations are usually difficult to manage. Such defects commonly involve tendons and bones. Palmar soft tissue defects may also lead to vascular compromise. In this retrospective report, we report the results of seven patients with multiple soft tissue finger defects that were covered by syndactylizing arterialized venous flaps. Six of the patients suffered hot‐pressing machine and crushing injuries, one patient had a rolling belt injury. All patients presented with soft tissue defects on palmar or dorsal sides involving at least two digits. The palmar forearm was donor site for all patients. At least one afferent artery and two efferent veins were selected for the anastomosis. Lengths of afferent and efferent veins were long enough to perform healthy anastomosis outside the injury zone. The afferent vessels were anastamosed to the digital arteries with the largest possible diameter or to the common digital arteries to maximize flow. The efferent veins were anastamosed to dorsal veins. Separations of the digits were performed after three weeks by longitudinal incisions. The mean follow‐up period was 12 months. None of our patients suffered a flap loss. Syndactylizing arterialized venous flaps may be used for composite or single tissue reconstruction for multiple finger defects with satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 34:527–534, 2014.
Error estimation and adaptivity for incompressible hyperelasticity
Authors: Whiteley J.P. , Tavener S.J.
Published: April 2014

A Galerkin FEM is developed for nonlinear, incompressible (hyper) elasticity that takes account of nonlinearities in both the strain tensor and the relationship between the strain tensor and the stress tensor. By using suitably defined linearised dual problems with appropriate boundary conditions, a posteriori error estimates are then derived for both linear functionals of the solution and linear functionals of the stress on a boundary, where Dirichlet boundary conditions are applied. A second, higher order method for calculating a linear functional of the stress on a Dirichlet boundary is also presented together with an a posteriori error estimator for this approach. An implementation for a 2D model problem with known solution, where the entries of the strain tensor exhibit large, rapid variations, demonstrates the accuracy and sharpness of the error estimators. Finally, using a selection of model problems, the a posteriori error estimate is shown to provide a basis for effective mesh adaptivity. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measures of ‘exposure needed for one additional patient to be harmed’ in population‐based case‐control studies
Authors: Hallas Jesper , Christensen Rene Depont , Stürmer Til , Pottegård Anton
Published: April 2014

Purpose

The magnitude of risk for adverse drug reactions may be communicated by a measure of ‘exposure needed for one additional patient to be harmed’ (ENH). We present four ENH measures, based on four different counterfactual contrasts, as illustrated by the known effects of NSAID use on peptic ulcer bleeding.

Methods

The four measures were basic ENH (estimating the excess risk when treating the entire source population versus treating no one), age‐restricted ENH (the entire source population above, e.g. 50 years old treated versus no one above 50 years old treated), standardised ENH (a population of similar age and gender distribution as those actually treated versus same subjects not treated) and naturalistic ENH (those actually treated versus same subjects not treated).

Data were derived from a case‐control dataset on NSAIDs and severe peptic ulcer bleeding, collected in Funen County in 1995–2006. We incorporated prescription and census data to account for the source population's drug use.

Results

Estimates of basic, age‐restricted, standardised and naturalistic ENH were 619 person‐years (py) (95% confidence interval (CI): 558–684), 223 py (CI: 201–246), 131 py (CI: 118–144) and 162 py (CI: 151–173). The age‐restricted ENH showed strong dependence on the chosen age limit.

Conclusion

The differing counterfactual contrasts underlying the ENH result in widely different estimates. These differences reflect the clinical and epidemiological aspects of NSAID‐related peptic ulcer bleeding. The ultimate choice of ENH measure will depend on epidemiological or clinical considerations and on availability of data. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fosfomycin for the Treatment of Resistant Gram‐Negative Bacterial Infections
Authors: Reffert Julia L. , Smith Winter J.
Published: April 2014

The antimicrobial agent fosfomycin was discovered in 1969, at a time when bacteria had not yet developed extended‐spectrum β‐lactamases or carbapenemases. Decades later, it is not uncommon for gram‐negative organisms to be multidrug‐resistant and even pan‐resistant to available antibiotic regimens, leaving clinicians with few therapeutic alternatives. Because fosfomycin has been shown to retain activity against these virulent pathogens, there is renewed interest in its use as a therapeutic agent. Fosfomycin formulations including fosfomycin disodium and the newer tromethamine salt are less toxic than other alternatives and are attractive options for resistant gram‐negative and gram‐positive infections. Oral fosfomycin tromethamine is approved for urinary tract infections in the United States, and an intravenous formulation is also available outside of the United States for systemic disease. The bactericidal action of fosfomycin occurs at an earlier step in cell wall synthesis than that of β‐lactam antibiotics. From an in vitro standpoint, fosfomycin generally has high activity against ESBL‐ and carbapenemase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae; multidrug‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa susceptibility appears to be more dependent on the local antibiogram. Fosfomycin formulations have a large volume of distribution, penetrate biofilms, and concentrate in the urine. Both oral and intravenous fosfomycin formulations are effective for a wide range of gram‐negative infections and disease severities; however, clinical studies are limited. Fosfomycin formulations are well‐tolerated, and mild gastrointestinal distress is the most common adverse effect. The primary limitations of fosfomycin are the lack of established regimens for complicated infections and the lack of availability of the intravenous formulation in the United States. Further study of this promising agent seems warranted in the current climate of antibiotic resistance.
Application of the BAMO‐AMMO Alternative Block Energetic Thermoplastic Elastomer in Composite Propellant
Authors: Zhang Chi , Luo Yun‐Jun , Jiao Qing‐Jie , Zhai Bin , Guo Xue‐Yong
Published: April 2014

A BAMO‐AMMO alternative block (BAAB)‐based thermoplastic composite propellant with 80 % solid content was prepared using BAAB energetic thermoplastic elastomer (ETPE) as the binder, and the formulation was optimized through energy calculation. The densities, heats of explosion, glass‐transition temperatures, and mechanical properties of the samples were determined by surface tension measurements, oxygen bomb calorimetry, differential scanning calorimetry and static tensile tests, respectively. The results showed that this composite propellant can reach a standard theoretical specific impulse of 275.45 s (10 MPa), a density of 1.8102 g cm−3, a heat of explosion of 6256 kJ kg−1, a Tg of −50.46 °C, a tensile strength of 1.56 MPa and an elongation at break of 20 %, thus presenting a superior comprehensive property to BAMO‐AMMO random block (BARB)‐based thermoplastic composite propellant.
Effect of Nitrocellulose Gasifying Binder on Thrust Performance and High‐g Launch Tolerance of Miniaturized Nanothermite Thrusters
Authors: Staley Clay S. , Raymond Kristofer E. , Thiruvengadathan Rajagopalan , Herbst Jackson J. , Swaszek Sean M. , Taylor Robert J. , Gangopadhyay Keshab , Gangopadhyay Shubhra
Published: April 2014

Nanothermites are promising propellants for miniaturized thruster applications, but in their pure state can be very sensitive to ignition stimuli and prone to phase separation. Consequentially, a need exists for desensitizing binders that do not inhibit nanothermite thrust performance. We investigate the effects of incorporating small weight concentrations of nitrocellulose as a gasifying binder in bismuth trioxide‐aluminum nanothermites. Thrust measurements revealed improvements in specific impulse up to 63.2 s using nitrocellulose. The launch tolerance of the nanothermites in response to high‐g acceleration was also explored and substantial improvements were realized for nanothermites prepared with nitrocellulose. As small as 5 % nitrocellulose content suppressed the sensitivity of the nanothermites to less than 1 % ignition probability after exposure to 30 kg acceleration events. Some nanothermite charges experimentally survived up to 90 kg loads. Most importantly, nitrocellulose predictably modulated the thrust performance and ignition sensitivity of the nanothermites as a function of weight content. Employing nitrocellulose as a binder, high performance nanothermite propellants can be synthesized for miniaturized thruster applications with tailored impulse generation and ignition sensitivity.
Ignition of Nanocomposite Thermites by Electric Spark and Shock Wave
Authors: Shaw William L. , Dlott Dana D. , Williams Rayon A. , Dreizin Edward L.
Published: April 2014

Nanocomposite 8Al ⋅ MoO3 thermite particles were prepared using arrested reactive milling and ignited using two experimental techniques. In spark ignition, a monolayer of powder was placed on a conductive substrate and heated in air by a pulsed electrostatic discharge. In shock ignition, an individual particle was targeted by a miniature, laser‐driven flyer plate accelerated to a speed in the range of 0.5–2 km s−1. In both experiments, time‐dependent optical emission produced by the ignited material was monitored and recorded. The heating rates achieved in the present experiments are on the order of 109−–1011 K s−1. These ignition methods result in a very fast combustion with characteristic burn times reduced by 1–3 orders of magnitude compared to the burn times measured previously for the same material ignited in the CO2 laser beam, where it was heated at a much lower rate of about 106−–107 K s−1. Ignition delays observed in both shock and spark ignition experiments are close to each other and vary in the range of 120–200 ns. The times of characteristic rapid increase in the optical emission of the ignited particles are also close to each other for the two experiments; however, these times are somewhat shorter (less than one μs) for the spark ignition tests compared to few μs observed for the shock initiated particles. Preliminary ideas enabling one to interpret the present results are discussed. This work establishes an approach for systematic studies of high rate ignition and respective combustion of nanocomposite reactive materials.
Single cell lipidomics of SKBR‐3 breast cancer cells by using time‐of‐flight secondary‐ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Ide Yoshimi , Waki Michihiko , Ishizaki Itsuko , Nagata Yasuyuki , Yamazaki Fumiyoshi , Hayasaka Takahiro , Masaki Noritaka , Ikegami Koji , Kondo Takeshi , Shibata Kiyoshi , Ogura Hiroyuki , Sanada Noriaki , Setou Mitsutoshi
Published: April 2014

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. The molecular characterization of breast tumor cells by using single‐cell lipidomics remains relatively unexplored. Here, we introduce a time‐of‐flight secondary‐ion mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) approach to visualize the lipids in individual breast cancer cells. The SKBR‐3 breast cancer cell line was cultured and dispersed into individual cells. After attachment to a substrate, the cells were rinsed with ammonium acetate and were analyzed using TOF‐SIMS. The instrument was operated with Bi32+ as the primary ion. The distributions of ions, including positively charged phosphocholine, and negatively charged phosphates and fatty acids, were simultaneously visualized. These ions were distributed predominantly at the cell attachment sites. The signal intensities of fatty acid ions were determined from the mass spectra at the regions‐of‐interest. The results of fatty acid analyses on breast cancer cells were consistent with those of our previous study in which prominent expression of stearoyl‐CoA desaturase 1 in breast cancer cells was demonstrated. Static TOF‐SIMS was shown to be an effective method for determining the lipid molecular signature of the plasma membrane of individual breast cancer cells. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of a diode laser‐assisted vacuum‐type charged droplet beam source
Authors: Ninomiya Satoshi , Chen Lee Chuin , Sakai Yuji , Hiraoka Kenzo
Published: April 2014

The electrospray droplet impact (EDI) method based on ambient electrospray technique was developed as a novel massive cluster beam gun, but in its current status, the EDI method lacks adequate beam focusing and brightness. To improve the performance of the current EDI method, we developed a technique for producing electrospray of aqueous solutions under vacuum. In a previous study, the tip of the electrospray emitter was irradiated with an infrared (IR) CO2 laser (wavelength: 10.6 µm) to prevent freezing of the aqueous solutions. In this paper, a near‐IR diode laser (wavelength: 808 nm) was adopted for heating the tip of the electrospray emitter as an alternative to the IR laser. A stable vacuum electrospray of aqueous solutions was obtained, whereas the 808 nm light was poorly absorbed by water compared with the 10.6‐µm IR laser. The characteristics of the vacuum electrospray assisted by a near‐IR laser are presented. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of two‐fold fully conditional specification multiple imputation for longitudinal electronic health record data
Authors: Welch Catherine A. , Petersen Irene , Bartlett Jonathan W. , White Ian R. , Marston Louise , Morris Richard W. , Nazareth Irwin , Walters Kate , Carpenter James
Published: April 2014

Most implementations of multiple imputation (MI) of missing data are designed for simple rectangular data structures ignoring temporal ordering of data. Therefore, when applying MI to longitudinal data with intermittent patterns of missing data, some alternative strategies must be considered. One approach is to divide data into time blocks and implement MI independently at each block. An alternative approach is to include all time blocks in the same MI model. With increasing numbers of time blocks, this approach is likely to break down because of co‐linearity and over‐fitting. The new two‐fold fully conditional specification (FCS) MI algorithm addresses these issues, by only conditioning on measurements, which are local in time. We describe and report the results of a novel simulation study to critically evaluate the two‐fold FCS algorithm and its suitability for imputation of longitudinal electronic health records. After generating a full data set, approximately 70% of selected continuous and categorical variables were made missing completely at random in each of ten time blocks. Subsequently, we applied a simple time‐to‐event model. We compared efficiency of estimated coefficients from a complete records analysis, MI of data in the baseline time block and the two‐fold FCS algorithm. The results show that the two‐fold FCS algorithm maximises the use of data available, with the gain relative to baseline MI depending on the strength of correlations within and between variables. Using this approach also increases plausibility of the missing at random assumption by using repeated measures over time of variables whose baseline values may be missing. © 2014 The Authors. Statistics in Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional Pathways of Social Support for Mental Health in Work and Family Domains Among Chinese Scientific and Technological Professionals
Authors: Gan Yiqun , Gan Tingting , Chen Zhiyan , Miao Miao , Zhang Kan
Published: April 2014

This study investigated the role of social support in the complex pattern of associations among stressors, work–family interferences and depression in the domains of work and family. A questionnaire was administered to a nationwide sample of 11,419 Chinese science and technology professionals. Several structural equation models were specified to determine whether social support functioned as a predictor or a mediator. Using Mplus 5.0, we compared the moderation model, the independence model, the antecedent model and the mediation model. The results revealed that the relationship between work–family interference and social support was domain specific. The independence model fit the data best in the work domain. Both the moderation model and the antecedent model fit the family domain data equally well. The current study was conducted to answer the need for comprehensive investigations of cultural uniqueness in the antecedents of work–family interference. The domain specificity, i.e. the multiple channels of the functions of support in the family domain and not in the work domain, ensures that this study is unique and culturally specific. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiple prenatal ultrasound scans and ocular development: 20‐year follow‐up of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Forward H. , Yazar S. , Hewitt A. W. , Khan J. , Mountain J. A. , Pesudovs K. , McKnight C. M. , Tan A. X. , Pennell C. E. , Mackey D. A. , Newnham J. P.
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Through comprehensive ophthalmic examination of adult offspring we sought to determine the impact of multiple prenatal ultrasound scans on ocular development.

Methods

2743 pregnant women recruited to the Western Australian Pregnancy (Raine) Cohort study during 1989–1991 were randomized to receive at King Edward Memorial Hospital, Western Australia either multiple prenatal ultrasound scans and Doppler flow studies (intensive group) or a single ultrasound scan at 18 weeks' gestation. Neonatal birth weight of the offspring and other physical measurements were collected prospectively. At age 20 years, participants underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination including measurement of ocular biometry and visual acuity.

Results

Complete data were available for 1134 adult offspring participants. The mothers of 563 of these had been randomized to receive multiple prenatal ultrasound scans. The mean age of participants at follow‐up was 20.0 years. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to ocular biometric or visual outcomes, except for slightly higher intraocular pressure identified in individuals exposed to multiple ultrasound scans (P = 0.034). Although infants in the intensive‐ultrasound arm were more likely to have birth weights in the lower quartiles, this was not reflected in adult eye development. Axial length, lens thickness, corneal curvature and thickness and optic cup to disc ratio (a risk factor for glaucomatous optic neuropathy) were not significantly influenced by the more frequent ultrasound protocol.

Conclusions

Prior to this study, there was a paucity of safety data for ultrasound with regard to eye development. We found that frequent in‐utero exposure to ultrasound, including B‐mode imaging and the use of spectral Doppler mode from 18 weeks' gestation, had no significant impact on visual outcomes or ocular biometry. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Political psychology
Authors: Stone Susanna , Johnson Kate M. , Beall Erica , Meindl Peter , Smith Benjamin , Graham Jesse
Published: April 2014

Political psychology is a dynamic field of research that offers a unique blend of approaches and methods in the social and cognitive sciences. Political psychologists explore the interactions between macrolevel political structures and microlevel factors such as decision‐making processes, motivations, and perceptions. In this article, we provide a broad overview of the field, beginning with a brief history of political psychology research and a summary of the primary methodological approaches in the field. We then give a more detailed account of research on ideology and social justice, two topics experiencing a resurgence of interest in current political psychology. Finally, we cover research on political persuasion and voting behavior. By summarizing these major areas of political psychology research, we hope to highlight the wide variety of theoretical and methodological approaches of cognitive scientists working at the intersection of psychology and political science. WIREs Cogn Sci 2014, 5:373‐385. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1293

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Reasoning and Decision Making
Poly(A) RNA‐binding proteins and polyadenosine RNA: new members and novel functions
Authors: Wigington Callie P. , Williams Kathryn R. , Meers Michael P. , Bassell Gary J. , Corbett Anita H.
Published: April 2014

Poly(A) RNA‐binding proteins (Pabs) bind with high affinity and specificity to polyadenosine RNA. Textbook models show a nuclear Pab, PABPN1, and a cytoplasmic Pab, PABPC, where the nuclear PABPN1 modulates poly(A) tail length and the cytoplasmic PABPC stabilizes poly(A) RNA in the cytoplasm and also enhances translation. While these conventional roles are critically important, the Pab family has expanded recently both in number and in function. A number of novel roles have emerged for both PAPBPN1 and PABPC that contribute to the fine‐tuning of gene expression. Furthermore, as the characterization of the nucleic acid binding properties of RNA‐binding proteins advances, additional proteins that show high affinity and specificity for polyadenosine RNA are being discovered. With this expansion of the Pab family comes a concomitant increase in the potential for Pabs to modulate gene expression. Further complication comes from an expansion of the potential binding sites for Pab proteins as revealed by an analysis of templated polyadenosine stretches present within the transcriptome. Thus, Pabs could influence mRNA fate and function not only by binding to the nontemplated poly(A) tail but also to internal stretches of adenosine. Understanding the diverse functions of Pab proteins is not only critical to understand how gene expression is regulated but also to understand the molecular basis for tissue‐specific diseases that occur when Pab proteins are altered. Here we describe both conventional and recently emerged functions for PABPN1 and PABPC and then introduce and discuss three new Pab family members, ZC3H14, hnRNP‐Q1, and LARP4. WIREs RNA 2014, 5:601–622. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1233

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA Processing > 3' End Processing
Structure and function of the archaeal exosome
Authors: Evguenieva‐Hackenberg Elena , Hou Linlin , Glaeser Stefanie , Klug Gabriele
Published: April 2014

The RNA‐degrading exosome in archaea is structurally very similar to the nine‐subunit core of the essential eukaryotic exosome and to bacterial polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase). In contrast to the eukaryotic exosome, PNPase and the archaeal exosome exhibit metal ion‐dependent, phosphorolytic activities and synthesize heteropolymeric RNA tails in addition to the exoribonucleolytic RNA degradation in 3′ → 5′ direction. The archaeal nine‐subunit exosome consists of four orthologs of eukaryotic exosomal subunits: the RNase PH‐domain‐containing subunits Rrp41 and Rrp42 form a hexameric ring with three active sites, whereas the S1‐domain‐containing subunits Rrp4 and Csl4 form an RNA‐binding trimeric cap on the top of the ring. In vivo, this cap contains Rrp4 and Csl4 in variable amounts. Rrp4 confers poly(A) specificity to the exosome, whereas Csl4 is involved in the interaction with the archaea‐specific subunit of the complex, the homolog of the bacterial primase DnaG. The archaeal DnaG is a highly conserved protein and its gene is present in all sequenced archaeal genomes, although the exosome was lost in halophilic archaea and some methanogens. In exosome‐containing archaea, DnaG is tightly associated with the exosome. It functions as an additional RNA‐binding subunit with poly(A) specificity in the reconstituted exosome of Sulfolobus solfataricus and enhances the degradation of adenine‐rich transcripts in vitro. Not only the RNA‐binding cap but also the hexameric Rrp41–Rrp42 ring alone shows substrate selectivity and prefers purines over pyrimidines. This implies a coevolution of the exosome and its RNA substrates resulting in 3′‐ends with different affinities to the exosome. WIREs RNA 2014, 5:623–635. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1234

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA Processing > 3' End Processing

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Turnover/Surveillance Mechanisms
Ethics in Global Surgery
Authors: Wall Anji E.
Published: April 2014

Global surgery, while historically a small niche, is becoming a larger part of the global health enterprise. This article discusses the burden of global surgery, emphasizing the importance of addressing surgical needs in low‐ and middle‐income countries. It describes the barriers to surgical care in the developing world, the ethical challenges that these barriers create, and strategies to overcome these barriers. It emphasizes the crucial role of preparation for global surgical interventions as a way to maximize benefits as well as minimize harms and ethical challenges. It ends with the cautionary statement that preparation does not eliminate ethical problems, so surgical volunteers must be prepared not only for the technical challenges of global surgery but also for the ethical challenges.
Current Status of Robotic Thyroid Surgery in South Korea: A Web‐Based Survey
Authors: Bae Dong Sik , Koo Do Hoon , Choi June Young , Kim Eunyoung , Lee Kyu Eun , Youn Yeo‐Kyu
Published: April 2014

Background

More than 8,000 cases of robotic thyroidectomy (RoT) were performed in South Korea from 2007 to 2011 using either a transaxillary approach (TAA) or a bilateral axillo‐breast approach (BABA). However, there is no consensus regarding patient selection for RoT. This study used a web‐based survey questionnaire to examine the current status of RoT in South Korea.

Methods

Thirty‐two of 50 surgeons (64.0 %) who had performed RoT in South Korea participated in the web‐based survey in August 2011. The questionnaires comprised four main domains: surgeon characteristics, surgical approach, patient selection, and future prospects.

Results

In terms of surgical approach, 43.8 % respondents used the TAA method and 53.1 % used the BABA method. The main advantage cited by surgeons using the TAA method was that it made lateral lymph node dissection easier (35.7 %), whereas those using the BABA method cited more cosmesis (100 %) and ease of performing a contralateral thyroidectomy (88.2 %). Papillary thyroid cancer ≤2 cm (65.3 %), intracapsular lesion (76.7 %), nonposterior location (53.6 %), and no clinical evidence of lateral lymph node metastasis (76.7 %) were cited as main indications for RoT. Of respondents, 87.5 % agreed that RoT would play a future role as a treatment modality for thyroid disease.

Conclusions

Opinions differed regarding the advantages and disadvantages of two approaches for RoT. This may be due to differences in surgical procedure itself between two approach methods. Accumulation of RoT surgeon’s experiences might establish consensus regarding patient selection and indications for the RoT will need to be further investigated.
Production of 3-hydroxypropionic acid from glycerol by acid tolerantEscherichia coli
Authors: Sankaranarayanan Mugesh , Ashok Somasundar , Park Sunghoon
Published: April 2014

The biological production of 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) has attracted significant attention because of its industrial importance. The low titer, yield and productivity, all of which are related directly or indirectly to the toxicity of 3-HP, have limited the commercial production of 3-HP. The aim of this study was to identify and select a 3-HP tolerant Escherichia coli strain among nine strains reported to produce various organic acids efficiently at high titer. When transformed with heterologous glycerol dehydratase, reactivase and aldehyde dehydrogenase, all nine E. coli strains produced 3-HP from glycerol but the level of 3-HP production, protein expression and activities of the important enzymes differed significantly according to the strain. Two E. coli strains, W3110 and W, showed higher levels of growth than the others in the presence of 25 g/L 3-HP. In the glycerol fed-batch bioreactor experiments, the recombinant E. coli W produced a high level of 3-HP at 460 ± 10 mM (41.5 ± 1.1 g/L) in 48 h with a yield of 31 % and a productivity of 0.86 ± 0.05 g/L h. In contrast, the recombinant E. coli W3110 produced only 180 ± 8.5 mM 3-HP (15.3 ± 0.8 g/L) in 48 h with a yield and productivity of 26 % and 0.36 ± 0.02 g/L h, respectively. This shows that the tolerance to and the production of 3-HP differ significantly among the well-known, similar strains of E. coli. The titer and productivity obtained with E. coli W were the highest reported thus far for the biological production of 3-HP from glycerol by E. coli.
X‐linked creatine transporter deficiency: clinical aspects and pathophysiology
Authors: van de Kamp Jiddeke M. , Mancini Grazia M. , Salomons Gajja S.
Published: April 2014

Creatine transporter deficiency was discovered in 2001 as an X‐linked cause of intellectual disability characterized by cerebral creatine deficiency. This review describes the current knowledge regarding creatine metabolism, the creatine transporter and the clinical aspects of creatine transporter deficiency. The condition mainly affects the brain while other creatine requiring organs, such as the muscles, are relatively spared. Recent studies have provided strong evidence that creatine synthesis also occurs in the brain, leading to the intriguing question of why cerebral creatine is deficient in creatine transporter deficiency. The possible mechanisms explaining the cerebral creatine deficiency are discussed. The creatine transporter knockout mouse provides a good model to study the disease. Over the past years several treatment options have been explored but no treatment has been proven effective. Understanding the pathogenesis of creatine transporter deficiency is of paramount importance in the development of an effective treatment.
Collaboration of Colorado Cancer Genetic Counselors to Integrate Next Generation Sequencing Panels into Clinical Practice
Authors: Wolfe Schneider K. , Anguiano A. , Axell L. , Barth C. , Crow K. , Gilstrap M. , Hamlington B. A. , Lesh S. , Mullineaux L. , Rahm A. Kulchak , Strait E. , Freivogel M.
Published: April 2014

The recent introduction of clinically available next generation sequencing (NGS) cancer panels has presented new challenges for genetic counselors. Determining which patients are appropriate for NGS panel testing is complex. Due to the large number of genes included in the NGS panels, thorough and appropriate pre‐test counseling and interpretation of NGS results can be a time‐consuming and difficult process. Many of the genes associated with increased cancer risk lack published clinical management guidelines and estimates of cancer risk for individuals with deleterious mutations. In order to efficiently and effectively review the clinical utility of NGS panels, Colorado cancer genetic counselors formed a working group to gain a better understanding of the genes included in NGS cancer panels. This publication reports on the approach of this group, the process used to evaluate a selected NGS panel, future directions for this collaboration, and ideas for other genetic counselors to form similar groups to efficiently evaluate new technologies and improve practice.
LQTS Parents’ Reflections About Genetic Risk Knowledge and their Need to Know or Not to Know their Children's Carrier Status
Authors: Mangset Margrete , Hofmann Bjørn
Published: April 2014

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a contributor to unexplained deaths in infants (SIDS), children, teenagers and young adults. A gene test result may allow for individual tailored treatment, but also pose a burden of knowing one's carrier status, with no treatment recommendation. Genetic risk knowledge in the case of LQTS can promote adjustment and coping, but also fear anxiety, ambivalence and moral dilemmas. This makes it challenging to respect both the right to know and the right not to know. The purpose of this study was to explore LQTS parents’ perception of genetic knowledge, and their need to know or not to know about their children's carrier status. Qualitative, semi structured interviews were conducted with thirteen parents of LQTS‐children. Results show that parents found it important to know the result of a gene test for LQTS including their children's carrier status. The risk was framed and incorporated into their everyday life and their life perspectives. Pertinent moral dilemmas concerned information disclosure to children and relatives. Parents thought that early and gradual disclosure to children would promote coping. Parents’ moral dilemmas were rarely addressed during encounters with healthcare providers. The participants had several suggestions for improvement in that regard.
Reconstruction of Malunited Diaphyseal Fractures of the Forearm
Authors: Jayakumar Prakash , Jupiter Jesse B
Published: April 2014

The forearm is a complex anatomical and functional unit with unique osseous, soft tissue and articular relationships. Disruption of these important relations can have a significant impact, leading to pain, instability of the ***radio-ulnar articulation and reduced range of motion. The gold standard for treating forearm fractures in adults remains anatomic reduction, stable plate fixation and preservation of the surrounding blood supply. Failure to achieve these goals may lead to malunion, requiring reconstructive surgery, which can be technically challenging. In this review, we discuss the essential aspects of anatomy and pathomechanics, clinical and radiological assessment and the state of the art in preoperative planning and deformity correction surgery.
Excisional Biopsy of Suspected Benign Soft Tissue Tumors of the Upper Extremity: Correlation between Preoperative Diagnosis and Actual Pathology
Authors: Sluijmer Heleen C. E. , Becker Stéphanie J. E. , Bossen Jeroen K. J. , Ring David
Published: April 2014

Background

Tumors of the upper extremity are common and mostly benign. However, the prevalence of discordant diagnosis of a solid hand tumor is less studied. The objectives of this retrospective study were (1) to determine the proportion of patients with a different (discrepant or discordant) pathological diagnosis compared to the preoperative diagnosis, (2) to determine the prevalence of the types of pathologies encountered at excisional biopsy for suspected benign tumors, and (3) to determine the types of tumors diagnosed when the surgeon does not make a preoperative diagnosis.

Methods

One hundred and eighty-two suspected benign soft tissue tumors of the upper extremity with a preoperative diagnosis other than ganglion cyst were excised by one of three surgeons over a 10-year period. A preoperative diagnosis was applied for 125 tumors. No preoperative imaging was used.

Results

Only 26 of the 125 tumors (21 %) with a preoperative diagnosis were discrepant. The tumors that were most likely to have a discrepant diagnosis were vascular tumors (32 %) and other less common benign tumors (33 %). Among the entire cohort of 182 tumors, lipomas (19 %), giant cell tumors of tendon sheath (GCTTS; 19 %), and vascular tumors (16 %) were the most frequent pathological diagnoses. Among the 57 tumors that did not have a preoperative diagnosis, most were vascular tumors (23 %), fibromas (14 %), and GCTTS (11 %). One tumor without a preoperative diagnosis was a malignant tumor, but we consider this unusual and possibly spurious.

Conclusions

A hand surgeon's preoperative diagnosis without imaging is usually correct prior to excision of a mass in the hand. Discrepant diagnoses are usually benign and do not alter treatment.
Influence of Nonionic Rosin Surfactants on Surface Activity of Silica Particles and Stability of Oil in Water Emulsions
Authors: Atta Ayman M. , Al‐Lohedan Hamad A.
Published: April 2014

Rosin as a natural product has become a source for production of less toxic bio‐surfactants to produce emulsions which are widely used in various agriculture and food products, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. In this respect, a nonionic surfactant was prepared from reaction of rosin acids and rosin maleic anhydride adduct with poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether 750 (MPEG 750) to produce a rosin ester (RMPEG 750). The surface activity parameters of the prepared surfactants, such as surface excess concentration (Γmax), the area per molecule at interface (Amin), and the effectiveness of surface tension reduction, were measured to determine the micellization and adsorption characteristics of the prepared surfactants at the water/air interface. The adsorption of the prepared surfactants on the surface of either hydrophilic or hydrophobic silica particles was determined using a spectrophotometric method. Interfacial tension between water and toluene were measured to select the best condition to obtain toluene/water emulsion in the presence of modified solid silica particles. The effects of silica particle hydrophilicity and the surfactant concentrations on the surface, interfacial activity, and on the emulsion drop size were also investigated.
Wax Ester Variation in Olive Oils Produced in Calabria (Southern Italy) During Olive Ripening
Authors: Giuffrè A. M.
Published: April 2014

The wax ester composition of pressed olive oil and its variation during olive ripening were investigated by column chromatography/GC‐on column technique. Six compounds were identified: C36, C38, C40, C42, C44 and C46 wax esters, which were grouped as total detected wax esters (TDWEs). The European Union (EU) includes C40, C42, C44 and C46 waxes (TEWEs) as a distinctive characteristic between different categories, with a maximum total content ≤250 mg/kg for an extra virgin olive oil. The International Olive Council (IOC) includes C42, C44 and C46 waxes (TIOCWEs) as a purity parameter, with a maximum total content ≤150 mg/kg for an extra virgin olive oil. The analytical technique proposed by EU and IOC do not separate the wax esters from fatty acids esters with diterpenic alcohols (phytol and geranylgeraniol) that interfere with detected peaks. Although the examined cultivars were grown in the same geographical area and the same agricultural practices were applied to the trees, ANOVA analysis found significant differences among the oils extracted with the same machinery. The oil produced from the Itrana cultivar showed the lowest content in TEWEs (25.00–39.00 mg/kg) and in TIOCWEs (5.67–9.00 mg/kg). Wax content in Leccino and Pendolino cultivars showed a significant tendency to decrease during olive maturation, and a tendency to increase in all other cultivars from the first to the last harvest date when olive pigmentation changed from green to black.
The Consequences of Migration to the United States for Short-Term Changes in the Health of Mexican Immigrants
Authors: Goldman Noreen , Pebley Anne R. , Creighton Mathew J. , Teruel Graciela M. , Rubalcava Luis N. , Chung Chang
Published: April 2014

Although many studies have attempted to examine the consequences of Mexico-U.S. migration for Mexican immigrants’ health, few have had adequate data to generate the appropriate comparisons. In this article, we use data from two waves of the Mexican Family Life Survey (MxFLS) to compare the health of current migrants from Mexico with those of earlier migrants and nonmigrants. Because the longitudinal data permit us to examine short-term changes in health status subsequent to the baseline survey for current migrants and for Mexican residents, as well as to control for the potential health selectivity of migrants, the results provide a clearer picture of the consequences of immigration for Mexican migrant health than have previous studies. Our findings demonstrate that current migrants are more likely to experience recent changes in health status—both improvements and declines—than either earlier migrants or nonmigrants. The net effect, however, is a decline in health for current migrants: compared with never migrants, the health of current migrants is much more likely to have declined in the year or two since migration and not significantly more likely to have improved. Thus, it appears that the migration process itself and/or the experiences of the immediate post-migration period detrimentally affect Mexican immigrants’ health.
Phosphorylation of cyclin Y by CDK14 induces its ubiquitination and degradation
Authors: Li Shan , Song Wei , Jiang Mei , Zeng Liyong , Zhu Xueliang , Chen Jiangye
Published: April 2014

Cyclin Y, a membrane associated cyclin, is capable of binding and activating CDK14. Here we report that human cyclin Y (CCNY) is a phosphoprotein in vivo and that phosphorylation of CCNY by CDK14 triggers its ubiquitination and degradation. Inactivation of either CDK14 or Cul1 results in accumulation of CCNY. An in vivo and in vitro mapping of CCNY phosphorylation sites by mass spectrometry revealed that the flanking regions of the conserved cyclin box are heavily phosphorylated. Phosphorylation of CCNY at Serines 71 and 73 creates a putative phospho‐degron that controls its association with an SCF complex. Mutation of serine to alanine at these two sites stabilized CCNY and enhanced the activity of CCNY/CDK14 on phosphorylation of LRP6. Our results provide insight into autoregulation of the cyclin Y/CDK14 pair in CDK14 activation and cyclin Y turnover which is a process that is involved in membrane proximal signaling.
Survival of a Patient With Tetanus in Bhutan Using a Magnesium Infusion Managed Only by Clinical Signs
Authors: Wangmo Kuenza P. , Teng Margie , Henker Richard , Kinnear Stephen , Tshering Jampel , Wang Nancy E.
Published: April 2014

Tetanus is a life-threatening disease that continues to have a high prevalence in developing countries. Severe muscle spasms often require patients to receive tracheostomy, high-dose sedatives, and sometimes prolonged neuromuscular blockade. Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) infusion has great promise as an adjunct treatment for severe tetanus, as it may allow clinicians to decrease the dose of other sedative medications. Although the mechanism of action of MgSO4 is not well understood, it appears to attenuate both the muscle spasms and autonomic instability associated with severe tetanus infections. However, MgSO4 infusions are often managed based on serial measurements of serum magnesium levels and other laboratory tests such as arterial blood gases, which can be difficult to obtain in resource-poor settings. We describe a case of severe tetanus in Bhutan managed through the use of magnesium infusion titrated solely to physical examination findings.
Wilderness Search Strategy and Tactics
Authors: Phillips Ken , Longden Maura J. , Vandergraff Bil , Smith William R. , Weber David C. , McIntosh Scott E. , Wheeler Albert R.
Published: April 2014

Reports of overdue persons are common for search and rescue personnel. Search incidents for missing persons are conducted following established industry standard practices, which are continuously refined through experience and the analysis of previous search operations. Throughout this process, elements of uncertainty exist, and the knowledge and experience of the searchers and search managers may influence the outcome significantly. A sound knowledge of current search tactics will help search and rescue medical providers function more effectively during search operations. Initial actions during a search incident include 3 primary tasks that must be accomplished on any search: investigation, containment, and then hasty search efforts. Concurrent with these initial actions are the establishment of the search area and a formal US National Incident Management System incident command system. That is essential for an efficient operation and will lay the groundwork for expanding the operation past the initial operational period. The goal of applying these standard search management practices is to allow searchers to maximize their efforts, reduce some of the inherent uncertainty, and most importantly, place searchers in a position to detect the missing person.
SHOULD SUBJECTIVE PROBABILITIES BE SHARP?
Authors: Bradley Seamus , Steele Katie
Published: April 2014

There has been much recent interest in imprecise probabilities, models of belief that allow unsharp or fuzzy credence. There have also been some influential criticisms of this position. Here we argue, chiefly against Elga (2010), that subjective probabilities need not be sharp. The key question is whether the imprecise probabilist can make reasonable sequences of decisions. We argue that she can. We outline Elga's argument and clarify the assumptions he makes and the principles of rationality he is implicitly committed to. We argue that these assumptions are too strong and that rational imprecise choice is possible in the absence of these overly strong conditions.
Nonlinear wave run-up in bays of arbitrary cross-section: generalization of the Carrier–Greenspan approach
Authors: Rybkin Alexei , Pelinovsky Efim , Didenkulova Ira
Published: April 2014

We present an exact analytical solution of the nonlinear shallow water theory for wave run-up in inclined channels of arbitrary cross-section, which generalizes previous studies on wave run-up for a plane beach and channels of parabolic cross-section. The solution is found using a hodograph-type transform, which extends the well-known Carrier–Greenspan transform for wave run-up on a plane beach. As a result, the nonlinear shallow water equations are reduced to a single one-dimensional linear wave equation for an auxiliary function and all physical variables can be expressed in terms of this function by purely algebraic formulas. In the special case of a U-shaped channel this equation coincides with a spherically symmetric wave equation in space, whose dimension is defined by the channel cross-section and can be fractional. As an example, the run-up of a sinusoidal wave on a beach is considered for channels of several different cross-sections and the influence of the cross-section on wave run-up characteristics is studied.