bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Thoracic Epidural in Cardiac Anesthesia
Authors: Jakobsen Carl-Johan
Published: September 2014

High thoracic epidural analgesia (HTEA) offers a distinctive opportunity to enhance postoperative recovery for the thoracic surgery patient. In the modern hospital setting with day of admission surgery, the logistics of insertion of the epidural catheter has become increasingly difficult. The greatest limitation to its use might be the believed increased risk of epidural hematoma associated with anticoagulation during cardiopulmonary bypass. The aim of this review is to give an overview of complications and effect on outcomes with focus on cardiac performance and postoperative glycemic control and kidney function. Patients with epidurals may have improved postoperative pulmonary function and shorter ventilation time, while impact on length of stay in the intensive care unit and hospital is not as evident. HTEA is effective in pain management, attenuates perioperative stress and seems to improve postoperative blood glucose control. Whether HTEA improves recovery and facilitates fast-track is still to be confirmed. With regard to serious postoperative complications, there is evidence of reduction in supraventricular arrhythmias and lower frequency of postoperative acute kidney injury and dialysis. There are some indications of lower short term mortality and frequency of postoperative myocardial infarctions, but only as a combined outcome. The present short-term mortality of 1% to 2% should be compared with the most pessimistic frequency of epidural hematoma being 1 in 4600 patients.
Tavaborole, a Novel Boron-Containing Small Molecule for the Topical Treatment of Onychomycosis, Is Noncarcinogenic in 2-Year Carcinogenicity Studies
Authors: Ciaravino Vic , Coronado Dina , Lanphear Cheryl , Shaikh Imran , Ruddock William , Chanda Sanjay
Published: September 2014

Tavaborole, a cyclized boronic acid, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the topical treatment of toenail onychomycosis. This novel, low-molecular-weight pharmaceutical compound has broad-spectrum antifungal activity against dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds responsible for the disease. Tavaborole was tested in 2-year carcinogenicity studies in mice (once daily dermal administration) and rats (once daily by oral gavage) as part of the extensive nonclinical safety program. There was no evidence of tavaborole-related neoplasms observed in either study. Based on the data gathered from these 2 carcinogenicity studies, tavaborole is considered noncarcinogenic.
HaloJ
Authors: Maurya Dharmendra Kumar
Published: September 2014

Although Halo assay is a fast and more economic technique, it is not popular compared to comet assay for the measurement of DNA damage. One of the reasons behind this was nonavailability of suitable user-friendly program. Currently, most of the researchers were analyzing halo images manually using image analysis software (Scion Image or ImageJ). To address this problem, I have developed a semiautomatic halo analysis ImageJ program, HaloJ, and applied in the assessment of DNA damage at the single-cell level. In this article, we have shown that data obtained from the HaloJ program have a very good correlation with the data obtained using comet assay analysis program such as Comet Assay Software Project. To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first program to quantify DNA damage of halo images. This program will be of great use for researchers working on the DNA damage and repair, radiation biology, toxicology, cancer biology, and so on.
Relationship of PTSD Symptoms With Combat Exposure, Stress, and Inflammation in American Soldiers
Authors: Groer Maureen W. , Kane Bradley , Williams S. Nicole , Duffy Allyson
Published: September 2014

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is of great concern in veterans. PTSD usually occurs after a person is exposed to death, threatened death, actual or threatened serious injury, or actual or threatened sexual violence. Active duty soldiers deployed to war zones are at risk for PTSD. Psychoneuroimmunological theory predicts that PTSD, depression, and stress can lead to low-grade, chronic inflammation. We asked whether there were relationships between PTSD symptoms and chronic stress, depression and inflammation in active duty U.S. soldiers. We enrolled 52 active duty enlisted and reservist soldiers in a cross-sectional study while they participated in a week of military training in fall 2011. They completed a demographic questionnaire, the Center for Epidemiological Studies–Depression Scale, the Combat Exposure Scale, and the PTSD symptom Checklist–Military version (PCL-M). Blood samples were taken for analysis of cytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP). Hair samples shaved from the forearm were measured for cortisol. Of the soldiers, 11 had PCL-M scores in the moderate to severe range. Regression analysis demonstrated that depression and war zone deployment were strong predictors of PTSD symptoms. CRP and hair cortisol were correlated with each other and with depression and PTSD symptoms. These results suggest relationships among war zone deployment, depression, and PTSD. Chronic stress associated with depression, PTSD, and war zone experiences may be related to inflammation in active duty soldiers.
Antibody responses following induction of antigen-specific tolerance with antigen-coupled cells
Authors: Peschl Patrick , Reindl Markus , Schanda Kathrin , Sospedra Mireia , Martin Roland , Lutterotti Andreas
Published: September 2014

We have recently demonstrated the safety and tolerability of a novel therapeutic regimen employing autologous blood cells chemically coupled with seven myelin peptides to induce antigen-specific tolerance in MS (ETIMS study). The aim of the current study was an extended safety analysis to assess the effect of the ETIMS approach on antibodies to common autoantigens, the myelin peptides used and common recall antigens. None of the patients showed induction of autoantibody responses. One patient had a measurable myelin peptide-specific response at baseline, which was reduced after treatment. Total immunoglobulins and recall antibody responses showed no significant change.
Changing care? Men and managerialism in the nonprofit sector
Authors: Baines Donna , Charlesworth Sara , Cunningham Ian
Published: September 2014

The movement of men into care work in the predominantly female voluntary sector appears to be an unintended impact of welfare state contracting-out, managerialism and labour market restructuring. While not uniform, our comparative, international data (New Zealand and Scotland) show that some groups of men in nonprofit care work jobs embraced managerialism and used aspects of it to reshape and advance their work, while others undertook practices exemplifying a ‘caring masculinity’ more similar to practices currently associated with femininised ways of undertaking care activities.

Findings

Drawing on international comparative data collected as part of a larger study of restructuring in the nonprofit social services, this article suggests analytic clusters of masculinities operating in the voluntary sector and explores how the presence of men in care work may be changing it. The article also shows how hegemonic, masculinist-oriented practices in the workplace appear more amenable to managerialism than the expected feminine self-sacrificing, self-exploiting ethos of this highly gendered, female-majority sector.

Applications

These findings provide insights into the gendered and changing work in the nonprofit social services sector, and suggest ways the gender order is changing with the influx of male workers. The findings will be of interest to social work managers, supervisors, practitioners, policy analysts, students and educators.
Uncomfortable departments: British historians of science and the importance of disciplinary communities
Authors: Fyfe Aileen
Published: September 2014

This paper explores issues around disciplinary belonging and academic identity. Historians of science learn to think and practise like historians in terms of research practice, but this paper shows that British historians of science do not think of themselves as belonging to the disciplinary community of historians. They may be confident that they do history, but they insist that there is a distinction between historians and historians of science. That distinction is marked by an exaggeration of their differences with general historians, and a strong emphasis on the social value of the contacts and friendships offered by the national and international disciplinary community. In this vision, university departments are no longer seen as the congenial, safe intellectual homes described by previous scholars but are potentially uncomfortable places where academics with different training, experiences and expectations must mix. The comparatively static structures of universities, despite burgeoning new sub-fields of study, make this case study applicable to a far wider range of disciplines.
Autonomy and cultural practices: The risk of double standards
Authors: Galeotti Anna Elisabetta
Published: September 2014

The paper questions the view that the alleged lack of autonomy displayed by certain practices and cultural behavior may constitute a sound justification for limiting toleration of those practices. Not only is the concept of autonomy open to endless controversy, but it also entails a conflict with liberal public morality and often nurtures double standards. To this end, the paper first examines the assumptions and basis of the lack-of-autonomy approach; this analysis perforce leads the author to unravel the notion of autonomy and its rival conceptions. Second, it will be argued that liberal and democratic politics, though indebted to the value of personal autonomy in a fashion, requires only a purely political principle of autonomy. It is also contended that if comprehensive notions of autonomy are used instead of a purely political conception, unacceptable consequences for the public morality of liberal democracy may follow. Finally, the point will be illustrated with some examples drawn from multicultural politics.
The Feasibility of LigaSure to Create Intestinal Anastomosis
Authors: Santini Mario , Fiorelli Alfonso , Messina Gaetana , Mazzella Antonio , Accardo Marina
Published: September 2014

Objective. To evaluate the feasibility and the effectiveness of LigaSure Forced Triad to create intestinal anastomosis in an ex vivo porcino model. Methods. Colon samples (n = 100) were prospectively randomized into 2 groups: LigaSure group (n = 90) and Stapler group (n = 10). The LigaSure group was divided into 9 subgroups, each of 10 samples, according to the different power levels of the LigaSure system (Bar 1, Bars 2, and Bars 3) and radiofrequency application (1 application, 2 applications, and 3 applications) used. All anastomoses were tested for early burst pressure. The LigaSure subgroup having the highest burst pressure was compared with the Stapler group. Finally, the specimen was reviewed by the same pathologist. Results. The burst pressures of the 9 subgroups of LigaSure segments were the following: 29.7 ± 4.5 (Subgroup a); 27.4 ± 3.1 (Subgroup b); 25.3 ± 4 (Subgroup c); 32.9 ± 2.3 (Subgroup d); 30.7 ± 3.8 (Subgroup e); 25.7 ± 4.8 (Subgroup f); 42 ± 4.7 (Subgroup g); 31.8 ± 3.8 (Subgroup h); and 28.5 ± 3 (Subgroup j). Subgroup g (3 bars-power levels/1 frequency application) had the highest burst pressure ( P < .001; ANOVA test). No significant difference was found between burst pressure of Subgroup g and Stapler group (42 ± 4.7 vs 42 ± 4.3, respectively, P = .9). On histological view, the LigaSure anastomosis was formed by collagen sealed without cavitation defects. Conclusions. Our study seems to confirm the feasibility of creating intestinal anastomosis using LigaSure. However, further researches in in vivo models are mandatory before recommending its clinical usage in such settings.
Extending Play to Critical Media Studies
Authors: Trammell Aaron , Gilbert Anne
Published: September 2014

This essay fosters a dialogue between game studies and critical media studies. By taking Slender Man as its object of study, it argues that play should be understood as a disposition toward media. It suggests a new critical vocabulary for this approach, wherein the moods set by play can be understood as schemes, latitude, or slack. These terms help us to understand the way play is productive of particular affects that set our bodies to motion.
A Mixed Methods Study Exploring the Factors and Behaviors That Affect Glycemic Control Following a Structured Education Program
Authors: Casey Dympna , O’Hara Mary Clare , Meehan Ben , Byrne Molly , Dinneen Sean F. , Murphy Kathy
Published: September 2014

Aim: To explain the factors affecting glycemic control (measured by HbA1c) following the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) program. Background: DAFNE is a structured education program designed to assist persons with type 1 diabetes mellitus achieve optimal glycemic control. However, not all participants reach this goal. Few studies comprehensively explain why this is the case. Research Design: A concurrent mixed methods design. Data were collected from participants ( n = 34) at three time points post DAFNE in five participating sites. Each data set was analyzed separately and then integrated. Results: Motivation and support differed for participants who were out of control and those in control. Conclusion: Setting targets/goals and motivations are key in helping participants attain optimal HbA1c.
Multitasking goes global: Multitasking with traditional and new electronic media and attention to media messages among college students in Kuwait, Russia, and the USA
Authors: Kononova Anastasia , Zasorina Tatyana , Diveeva Nataliya , Kokoeva Anastasia , Chelokyan Anastasia
Published: September 2014

The current study examined multitasking with traditional and new electronic media among college students ( N = 532) in three countries: Kuwait, Russia, and the USA. Television, music, phone, and the Internet were the most popular media to multitask with and were often used interchangeably, i.e., without the dominance of one medium over another. The game–music pair was the only one with clear distinction between primary (game) and secondary (music) media. Eating, socializing, and doing homework were the most popular nonmedia activities combined with traditional and new electronic media uses. Media-only and media–nonmedia multitasking were found in positive association with perceived attention paid to media messages. The study not only indicated universal media multitasking trends but also revealed cross-national differences that can be explained by economic, political, and cultural characteristics varying across the three nations.
Tracing evolutionary relicts of positive selection on eight malaria-related immune genes in mammals
Authors: Huang Bing-Hong , Liao Pei-Chun
Published: September 2014

Plasmodium-induced malaria widely infects primates and other mammals. Multiple past studies have revealed that positive selection could be the main evolutionary force triggering the genetic diversity of anti-malaria resistance-associated genes in human or primates. However, researchers focused most of their attention on the infra-generic and intra-specific genome evolution rather than analyzing the complete evolutionary history of mammals. Here we extend previous research by testing the evolutionary link of natural selection on eight candidate genes associated with malaria resistance in mammals. Three of the eight genes were detected to be affected by recombination, including TNF-α, iNOS and DARC. Positive selection was detected in the rest five immunogenes multiple times in different ancestral lineages of extant species throughout the mammalian evolution. Signals of positive selection were exposed in four malaria-related immunogenes in primates: CCL2, IL-10, HO1 and CD36. However, selection signals of G6PD have only been detected in non-primate eutherians. Significantly higher evolutionary rates and more radical amino acid replacement were also detected in primate CD36, suggesting its functional divergence from other eutherians. Prevalent positive selection throughout the evolutionary trajectory of mammalian malaria-related genes supports the arms race evolutionary hypothesis of host genetic response of mammalian immunogenes to infectious pathogens.
New insights and challenges in microscopic colitis
Authors: Ohlsson Bodil
Published: September 2014

Microscopic colitis (MC) is described as an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by chronic, bloodless diarrhea with normal or close to normal endoscopic findings. Histopathological examination reveals two subtypes: collagenous colitis (CC) and lymphocytic colitis (LC), which are indistinguishable clinically. The disease debuts typically in middle-aged patients, but can occur at all ages, including children. A female predominance is found in both CC and LC, but is not confirmed by others in LC. The etiology is unclear, but the disease has been assumed to be of autoimmune origin. However, several etiologies may render a microscopic inflammation in the mucosa; this is a common, universal reaction to a variety of irritants in contact with the intestinal lumen. Furthermore, some patients with a microscopic inflammation in their colonic mucosa have no symptoms, or are suffering from constipation or abdominal pain, rather than diarrhea. Recently, a discussion was initiated calling into question the overdiagnosing of symptoms and pointing out the danger of exacerbating people’s perception of their ailments, of weakening their eligibility in health insurance, of overprescription of drugs, and thus the increasing cost to the society of health care. In the light of this discussion, this review will highlight histopathological and clinical features of MC, and discuss the diagnosis and management of this disease. Perhaps, the intestinal mucosa has no other mode by which to react than an inflammatory response, irrespective of the presence or absence of autoimmunity. Thus, to better identify and classify subgroups of MC, and to clarify and correctly handle the inflammatory changes, this field of research stands to benefit from a review of the results and experience gained to date.
The Tablet Device in Hospital Neurology and in Neurology Graduate Medical Education
Authors: George Pravin , Newey Christopher R. , Bhimraj Adarsh
Published: September 2014

Background and Purpose:

There is limited literature on tablet devices for neurohospitalists and in neurological graduate medical education. This study evaluated utilization, benefits, and limitations of customized tablets on inpatient neurology practice and resident education. The hypothesis was the perception of the tablet would be positive, given their portability, convenience to accessing point-of-care reference, and accessibility to the electronic medical record.

Methods:

Second-generation iPads with neurology-specific applications and literature were provided to our in-hospital general, stroke, and consult neurology teams. After 1 year, residents on these teams were surveyed on demographic data, familiarity, and utilization of the iPad and their perceptions of the device.

Results:

All 27 residents responded to the survey. Most participants (23 of 27) used a tablet while on inpatient service. Twelve regularly utilized the neurology-specific apps and/or accessed scientific articles. Technologically savvy residents felt significantly more comfortable using tablets and were more quickly acquainted with the features. Thirteen respondents wanted a formal orientation on the advanced features of the tablet independent of their familiarity with the device or level of technological comfort.

Conclusion:

Overall, the perception was that the tablet was beneficial for inpatient clinical care and as an educational reference. Participants became easily familiarized with the device features quickly, regardless of whether they owned one previously or not. Most physicians indicated interest in advanced features of tablets; however, a formal orientation may be beneficial for optimal utilization. A reliable network connection is essential to in-hospital use of tablet devices. Additional research pertaining to patient outcomes, objective educational benefit, and cost-effectiveness is necessary.
Vitamin D insufficiency and insulin resistance in obese adolescents
Authors: Peterson Catherine A. , Tosh Aneesh K. , Belenchia Anthony M.
Published: September 2014

Obese adolescents represent a particularly vulnerable group for vitamin D deficiency which appears to have negative consequences on insulin resistance and glucose homeostasis. Poor vitamin D status is also associated with future risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome in the obese. The biological mechanisms by which vitamin D influences glycemic control in obesity are not well understood, but are thought to involve enhancement of peripheral/hepatic uptake of glucose, attenuation of inflammation and/or regulation of insulin synthesis/secretion by pancreatic β cells. Related to the latter, recent data suggest that the active form of vitamin, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, does not impact insulin release in healthy pancreatic islets; instead they require an environmental stressor such as inflammation or vitamin D deficiency to see an effect. To date, a number of observational studies exploring the relationship between the vitamin D status of obese adolescents and markers of glucose homeostasis have been published. Most, although not all, show significant associations between circulating 25-hydroxyvitamn D concentrations and insulin sensitivity/resistance indices. In interpreting the collective findings of these reports, significant considerations surface including the effects of pubertal status, vitamin D status, influence of parathyroid hormone status and the presence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The few published clinical trials using vitamin D supplementation to improve insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance in obese adolescents have yielded beneficial effects. However, there is a need for more randomized controlled trials. Future investigations should involve larger sample sizes of obese adolescents with documented vitamin D deficiency, and careful selection of the dose, dosing regimen and achievement of target 25-hydroxyvitamn D serum concentrations. These trials should also include clamp-derived measures of in vivo sensitivity and β-cell function to more fully characterize the effects of vitamin D replenishment on insulin resistance.
Electronic discharge summaries in cross-border care in the European Union: How close are we to making it happen?
Authors: Döring N , Doupi P , Glonti K , Winkelmann J , Warren E , McKee M , Knai C
Published: September 2014

Introduction

The political drive for cross-border care within the European Union and an increasing focus on integrated care both have implications for electronic health records. The hospital discharge summary is a critical component of systems to ensure quality and continuity of care, and in a cross-border setting would particularly benefit from an electronic version. We have explored the extent to which European Union level policy and practice on electronic health records address issues pertinent to the development and implementation of electronic discharge summaries for patients treated outside their own country.

Methods

We approached the topic by analysing data from two different sources: European Union policy documents on topics relevant to electronic health records and deliverables of European Union-funded electronic health record-focused research and development projects. Elements pertinent to different aspects of interoperability – legal, semantic and technical – were extracted from both sources and their content compared to assess the degree of consistency between policy and implementation targets.

Results

We identified 25 policy documents and 14 European Union-funded projects. Our results show that European legislation is increasingly aligned with projects funded through European Union sources and substantial progress has been accomplished in achieving electronic communication across European health systems. Nevertheless, the achievement of a European level interoperable discharge summary is still a distant goal, while inadequate attention has been paid to the coordination of current discharge summary practices in Member States.

Discussion

If the harmonized European Union patient summary is also to function as an electronic discharge summary, further specific steps are needed that address issues of both content and processes related to communication.
Evaluating chronic disease management in real-world settings in six European countries: Lessons from the collaborative DISMEVAL project
Authors: Elissen Arianne , Nolte Ellen , Hinrichs Saba , Conklin Annalijn , Adams John , Cadier Benjamin , Chevreul Karine , Durand-Zaleski Isabelle , Erler Antje , Flamm Maria , Frølich Anne , Fullerton Birgit , Jacobsen Ramune , Knai Cécile , Saz-Parkinson Zuleika , Sarria-Santamera Antonio , Sönnichsen Andreas , Vrijhoef Hubertus J.M.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To describe the interventions, research methods and main findings of the international DISMEVAL project, in which the “real-world” impact of exemplary European disease management approaches was investigated in six countries using advanced analytic techniques.

Design

Across countries, the project captured a wide range of disease management strategies and settings; approaches to evaluation varied per country, but included, among others, difference-in-differences analysis and regression discontinuity analysis.

Setting

Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, The Netherlands, and Spain.

Participants

Health care providers and/or statutory insurance funds providing routine data from their disease management interventions, mostly retrospectively.

Intervention(s)

This study did not carry out an intervention but evaluated the impact of existing disease management interventions implemented in European care settings.

Main outcome measure(s)

Outcome measures were largely dependent on available routine data, but could concern health care structures, processes, and outcomes.

Results

Data covering 10 to 36 months were gathered concerning more than 154,000 patients with three conditions. The analyses demonstrated considerable positive effects of disease management on process quality (Austria, Germany), but no more than moderate improvements in intermediate health outcomes (Austria, France, Netherlands, Spain) or disease progression (Denmark) in intervention patients, where possible compared with a matched control group.

Conclusions

Assessing the “real-world” impact of chronic disease management remains a challenge. In settings where randomization is not possible and/or desirable, routine health care performance data can provide a valuable resource for practice-based evaluations using advanced analytic techniques.
Long-term follow-up from a phase 1/2 study of single-agent bortezomib in relapsed systemic AL amyloidosis
Authors: Reece Donna E. , Hegenbart Ute , Sanchorawala Vaishali , Merlini Giampaolo , Palladini Giovanni , Bladé Joan , Fermand Jean-Paul , Hassoun Hani , Heffner Leonard , Kukreti Vishal , Vescio Robert A. , Pei Lixia , Enny Christopher , Esseltine Dixie-Lee , van de Velde Helgi , Cakana Andrew , Comenzo Raymond L.
Published: September 2014

Key Points

Single-agent bortezomib produces durable hematologic responses and promising long-term overall survival in relapsed AL patients. Once-weekly bortezomib is better tolerated and produces similar responses to twice-weekly bortezomib in relapsed AL patients.
Mutually exclusive recurrent somatic mutations in MAP2K1 and BRAF support a central role for ERK activation in LCH pathogenesis
Authors: Chakraborty Rikhia , Hampton Oliver A. , Shen Xiaoyun , Simko Stephen J. , Shih Albert , Abhyankar Harshal , Lim Karen Phaik Har , Covington Kyle R. , Trevino Lisa , Dewal Ninad , Muzny Donna M. , Doddapaneni Harshavardhan , Hu Jianhong , Wang Linghua , Lupo Philip J. , Hicks M. John , Bonilla Diana L. , Dwyer Karen C. , Berres Marie-Luise , Poulikakos Poulikos I. , Merad Miriam , McClain Kenneth L. , Wheeler David A. , Allen Carl E. , Parsons D. Williams
Published: September 2014

Key Points

Recurrent somatic mutations in MAP2K1 were identified in 33% of LCH lesions with wild-type BRAF. The mutant MAPK kinase 1 proteins activate ERK. The ability of MAPK pathway inhibitors to suppress MAPK kinase and ERK phosphorylation in vitro was dependent on the specific LCH mutation.
Nontoxic polyphosphate inhibitors reduce thrombosis while sparing hemostasis
Authors: Travers Richard J. , Shenoi Rajesh A. , Kalathottukaren Manu Thomas , Kizhakkedathu Jayachandran N. , Morrissey James H.
Published: September 2014

Key Points

Polyphosphate inhibitors are antithrombotics with a novel mechanism of action and reduced bleeding side effects compared with heparin. Originally identified polyphosphate inhibitors were all toxic; this study reports the development of safe and effective alternatives.
Inhibiting stromal cell heparan sulfate synthesis improves stem cell mobilization and enables engraftment without cytotoxic conditioning
Authors: Saez Borja , Ferraro Francesca , Yusuf Rushdia Z. , Cook Colleen M. , Yu Vionnie W. C. , Pardo-Saganta Ana , Sykes Stephen M. , Palchaudhuri Rahul , Schajnovitz Amir , Lotinun Sutada , Lymperi Stefania , Mendez-Ferrer Simon , Toro Raquel del , Day Robyn , Vasic Radovan , Acharya Sanket S. , Baron Roland , Lin Charles P. , Yamaguchi Yu , Wagers Amy J. , Scadden David T.
Published: September 2014

Key Points

Mx1 + stromal cells and/or their descendants provide functional niches for HSPCs and regulate their localization. Targeting Ext1 or HSPG can mobilize more potent reconstituting cells and enable engraftment without cytotoxic conditioning.
Microwave fabrication of Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticle and its visible light photocatalytic properties
Authors: Zhou Zhihua , Zhang Pingan , Lin Yuelai , Ashalley Eric , Ji Haining , Wu Jiang , Li Handong , Wang Zhiming
Published: September 2014

Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticle with an average diameter of approximately 31 nm has been successfully synthesized by a time effective microwave fabrication method. The crystal structure, surface morphology, and microstructure of the Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticle were characterized. Moreover, the visible light photocatalytic ability of the Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticle toward degradation of methylene blue (MB) was also studied. About 30% of MB was degraded after 240 min irradiation when employing Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticle as a photocatalyst. However, almost all MB was decomposed after 90 min irradiation when introducing a small amount of H2O2 as a co-photocatalyst. The enhancement of the photocatalytic performance was attributed to the synergetic effect between the Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticle and H2O2. The detailed photocatalytic degradation mechanism of MB by the Cu2ZnSnS4 was further proposed.
Knowledge and extractivism of Stryphnodendron rotundifoliumMart. in a local community of the Brazilian Savanna, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Feitosa Ivanilda Soares , Albuquerque Ulysses Paulino , Monteiro Júlio Marcelino
Published: September 2014

Background

This study aims to understand how the stem bark of Stryphnodendron rotundifolium Mart. is used by a rural community in the savanna of Northeastern Brazil, associated with a preliminary assessment involving plant population structure and extractivism in the main sites of collection.

Methods

A population structure study and analysis of bark extractivism was conducted in two sites: one within the forest and another at its edge. We had the intention of testing whether there are differences between these sites; since the local extractive practice is prohibited, expecting more intense extraction in the forest interior than its edge by the local fiscalization. We interviewed 120 informants who reported knowing and using the species, and also the places of extractivism. We also calculated quantitative measures of local knowledge, and the influence of gender and age on the knowledge about this species.

Results

Knowledge of the uses was evenly distributed between men and women. A total of 28 specimens were recorded at Site 1, whereas 23 were identified at Site 2, with the specimens at both sites distributed in 4-diameter classes with 4-cm intervals. Nine of the specimens found in Site 1 (32.14%) showed some sign of extraction. No specimen from Site 2 showed signs of extraction. In Site 1, the total area of stem bark removed was 43,468 cm2, and the total area of stem bark available was 33,200 cm2. In Site 2, only the available stem-bark area of 44,666 cm2 was identified because no specimens were harvested. There is no difference in knowledge of this species regarding the gender and age.

Conclusions

Stryphnodendron rotundifolium is a key resource for the studied community. A large proportion of bark collected from the first diameter size class may affect the growth of these individuals and may influence the recruitment process. Perhaps, this effect may explain the absence of individuals in some size classes.
Dothideomycetes and Leotiomycetes sterile mycelia isolated from the Italian seagrass Posidonia oceanica based on rDNA data
Authors: Gnavi Giorgio , Ercole Enrico , Panno Luigi , Vizzini Alfredo , Varese Giovanna C
Published: September 2014

Marine fungi represent a group of organisms extremely important from an ecological and biotechnological point of view, but often still neglected. In this work, an in-depth analysis on the systematic and the phylogenetic position of 21 sterile mycelia, isolated from Posidonia oceanica, was performed.

The molecular (ITS and LSU sequences) analysis showed that several of them are putative new species belonging to three orders in the Ascomycota phylum: Pleosporales, Capnodiales and Helotiales. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood approaches.

Seven sterile mycelia belong to the genera firstly reported from marine environments.

The bioinformatic analysis allowed to identify five sterile mycelia at species level and nine at genus level. Some of the analyzed sterile mycelia could belong to new lineages of marine fungi.
Creatine metabolism differs between mammals and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Borchel Andreas , Verleih Marieke , Rebl Alexander , Kühn Carsten , Goldammer Tom
Published: September 2014

Creatine plays an important role in the cell as an energy buffer. As the energy system is a basic element of the organism it may possibly contribute to differences between rainbow trout strains selected for the traits growth and robustness, respectively. The cDNA sequences of creatine-related genes encoding glycine amidinotransferase (GATM), guanidinoacetate N-methyltransferase (GAMT), creatine kinase muscle-type (CKM) and creatine transporter 1 (CT1, encoded by gene solute carrier family 6, member 8 (SLC6A8)) were characterized in rainbow trout. Transcripts of the respective genes were quantified in kidney, liver, brain and skeletal muscle in both trout strains that had been acclimated to different temperatures. Several differences between the compared trout strains were found as well as between temperatures indicating that the energy system may contribute to differences between both strains. In addition to that, the expression data showed clear differences between the creatine system in rainbow trout and mammals, as the spatial distribution of the enzyme-encoding gene expression was clearly different from the patterns described for mammals. In rainbow trout, creatine synthesis seems to take place to a big extent in the skeletal muscle.
Does leaving school in an economic downturn impact access to employer-sponsored health insurance?
Authors: Maclean Johanna Catherine
Published: September 2014

Previous work documents that leaving school in an economic downturn persistently depresses career outcomes as measured by wages, earnings, and other markers of labor market success. In this study I test whether leaving school in an economic downturn influences access to employer-sponsored health insurance. Using a long panel of workers drawn from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 Cohort, I model the likelihood that a worker has access to employer-sponsored health insurance from initial labor market entrance through mid-career. I address the potential endogeneity of time and location of school-leaving with instrumental variables. My results suggest that leaving school in an economic downturn lowers the probability of access to employer-sponsored health insurance and this disparity is statistically distinguishable from zero 18 years after school-leaving.

JEL codes

I1; I12; J3
Pharmacokinetics of intravitreal antibiotics in endophthalmitis
Authors: Radhika Medikonda , Mithal Kopal , Bawdekar Abhishek , Dave Vivek , Jindal Animesh , Relhan Nidhi , Albini Thomas , Pathengay Avinash , Flynn Harry W
Published: September 2014

Intravitreal antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment in the management of infectious endophthalmitis. Basic knowledge of the commonly used intravitreal antibiotics, which includes their pharmacokinetics, half-life, duration of action and clearance, is essential for elimination of intraocular infection without any iatrogenic adverse effect to the ocular tissue. Various drugs have been studied over the past century to achieve this goal. We performed a comprehensive review of the antibiotics which have been used for intravitreal route and the pharmacokinetic factors influencing the drug delivery and safety profile of these antibiotics. Using online resources like PubMed and Google Scholar, articles were reviewed. The articles were confined to the English language only. We present a broad overview of pharmacokinetic concepts fundamental for use of intravitreal antibiotics in endophthalmitis along with a tabulated compendium of the intravitreal antibiotics using available literature. Recent advances for increasing bioavailability of antibiotics to the posterior segment with the development of controlled drug delivery devices are also described.
Liquid base cytology in evaluation of thyroid nodules
Authors: Keyhani Elahe , Sharghi Sasan A , Amini Rana , Sharghi Sina A , Karimlou Masoud , Moghaddam Fatemeh A , Larijani Bagher
Published: September 2014

Background

Palpable thyroid nodules are present in 4-7% of general population and Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) is now accepted by endocrinologists and thyroid surgeons as a safe, simple and cost effective procedure for evaluating a thyroid nodule. The obtained sample can be spread directly on slides, processed as cell block preparations or prepared as liquid base smears. Liquid base method has been recently accepted due to its shorter preparation time and better preservation of nuclear details.

The aim of this study is to compare the diagnostic results of two commonly used methods: Liquid Base Preparation and Cell Block Preparation in evaluation of thyroid nodules.

Methods

The samples were taken from 100 patients with a solitary nodule or a prominent nodule on a multinodular goiter background (excluding hot nodules). The obtained samples were used to prepare conventional smears (CS), Cell Block Preparations (CBP) and Liquid Base Preparations (LBP). The slides were studied by two pathologists, considering the following parameters: Cellularity, Colloid, Lymphocytes/Plasma cells and Macrophages.

Results

87% of cases revealed informative results in LBP method while in the same group of patients only 69% of samples were informative after processing by CBP method. Sensitivity and specificity of both methods compared with the conventional smears and with each other and it is concluded that LBP is a reliable method for evaluating of a thyroid nodule. Other studies also show the same results.

Conclusion

The liquid base method should be trusted due to its easier procedure, cleaner slide background, its higher specificity and higher diagnostic yields. It can be used instead of CBP and in association with CS to increase the accuracy of evaluation of thyroid nodules.
Amelioration of experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis by inhibition of glyceraldehyde-derived advanced glycation end-product formation
Authors: Dong Zhenyu , Iwata Daiju , Kitaichi Nobuyoshi , Takeuchi Masayoshi , Sato Masashi , Endo Noriko , Iwabuchi Kazuya , Ando Ryo , Fukuhara Junichi , Kinoshita Satoshi , Lennikov Anton , Kitamura Mizuki , Mizuuchi Kazuomi , Kanda Atsuhiro , Noda Kousuke , Namba Kenichi , Yamagishi Sho-Ichi , Ohno Shigeaki , Ishida Susumu
Published: September 2014

AGEs are permanently modified macromolecule derivatives that form through nonenzymatic glycation of amino groups of proteins. Glycer-AGEs are highly toxic and play an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases. However, the contribution of glycer-AGEs to the pathogenesis of uveitis is unclear. In this study, we measured serum levels of glycer-AGEs in 100 patients with endogenous uveitis (22 with HLA-B27-associated uveitis, 20 with VKH disease, 14 with Behçet's disease, and 44 with sarcoidosis) and 33 healthy volunteers. We then examined the effect of the AGE inhibitor in a mouse model of human endogenous uveitis (EAU) by continuous oral administration of pyridoxamine at 200 or 400 mg/kg/day. Regardless of the etiology, serum glycer-AGE levels were significantly higher in patients with uveitis than in healthy subjects. Treatment with 400 mg/kg pyridoxamine significantly reduced the clinical and histological severity of EAU and was accompanied by a significant decrease in serum and retinal glycer-AGE levels and suppression of translocation of NF-κB p65 into the nucleus of retinal cells. Serum glycer-AGE levels may therefore serve as a biomarker of human uveitis, as well as systemic inflammation, and may contribute to the progression of uveitis, including diabetic iritis, via the activation of NF-κB.
Systemic Therapy in Men With Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: American Society of Clinical Oncology and Cancer Care Ontario Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Basch Ethan , Loblaw D. Andrew , Oliver Thomas K. , Carducci Michael , Chen Ronald C. , Frame James N. , Garrels Kristina , Hotte Sebastien , Kattan Michael W. , Raghavan Derek , Saad Fred , Taplin Mary-Ellen , Walker-Dilks Cindy , Williams James , Winquist Eric , Bennett Charles L. , Wootton Ted , Rumble R. Bryan , Dusetzina Stacie B. , Virgo Katherine S.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

To provide treatment recommendations for men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

Methods

The American Society of Clinical Oncology and Cancer Care Ontario convened an expert panel to develop evidence-based recommendations informed by a systematic review of the literature.

Results

When added to androgen deprivation, therapies demonstrating improved survival, improved quality of life (QOL), and favorable benefit-harm balance include abiraterone acetate/prednisone, enzalutamide, and radium-223 (223Ra; for men with predominantly bone metastases). Improved survival and QOL with moderate toxicity risk are associated with docetaxel/prednisone. For asymptomatic/minimally symptomatic men, improved survival with unclear QOL impact and low toxicity are associated with sipuleucel-T. For men who previously received docetaxel, improved survival, unclear QOL impact, and moderate to high toxicity risk are associated with cabazitaxel/prednisone. Modest QOL benefit (without survival benefit) and high toxicity risk are associated with mitoxantrone/prednisone after docetaxel. No benefit and excess toxicity are observed with bevacizumab, estramustine, and sunitinib.

Recommendations

Continue androgen deprivation (pharmaceutical or surgical) indefinitely. Abiraterone acetate/prednisone, enzalutamide, or 223Ra should be offered; docetaxel/prednisone should also be offered, accompanied by discussion of toxicity risk. Sipuleucel-T may be offered to asymptomatic/minimally symptomatic men. For men who have experienced progression with docetaxel, cabazitaxel may be offered, accompanied by discussion of toxicity risk. Mitoxantrone may be offered, accompanied by discussion of limited clinical benefit and toxicity risk. Ketoconazole or antiandrogens (eg, bicalutamide, flutamide, nilutamide) may be offered, accompanied by discussion of limited known clinical benefit. Bevacizumab, estramustine, and sunitinib should not be offered. There is insufficient evidence to evaluate optimal sequences or combinations of therapies. Palliative care should be offered to all patients.
Hope and Persuasion by Physicians During Informed Consent
Authors: Miller Victoria A. , Cousino Melissa , Leek Angela C. , Kodish Eric D.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

To describe hopeful and persuasive messages communicated by physicians during informed consent for phase I trials and examine whether such communication is associated with physician and parent ratings of the likelihood of benefit, physician and parent ratings of the strength of the physician's recommendation to enroll, parent ratings of control, and parent ratings of perceived pressure.

Patients and Methods

Participants were children with cancer (n = 85) who were offered a phase I trial along with their parents and physicians. Informed consent conferences (ICCs) were audiotaped and coded for physician communication of hope and persuasion. Parents completed an interview (n = 60), and physicians completed a case-specific questionnaire.

Results

The most frequent hopeful statements related to expectations of positive outcomes and provision of options. Physicians failed to mention no treatment and/or palliative care as options in 68% of ICCs and that the disease was incurable in 85% of ICCs. When physicians mentioned no treatment and/or palliative care as options, both physicians and parents rated the physician's strength of recommendation to enroll in the trial lower.

Conclusion

Hopes and goals other than cure or longer life were infrequently mentioned, and a minority of physicians communicated that the disease was incurable and that no treatment and/or palliative care were options. These findings are of concern, given the low likelihood of medical benefit from phase I trials. Physicians have an important role to play in helping families develop alternative goals when no curative options remain.
Minimal Models and Abundance for Positive Characteristic Log Surfaces
Authors: Tanaka Hiromu
Published: September 2014

We discuss the birational geometry of singular surfaces in positive characteristic. More precisely, we establish the minimal model program and the abundance theorem for ℚ-factorial surfaces and for log canonical surfaces. Moreover, in the case where the base field is the algebraic closure of a finite field, we obtain the same results under much weaker assumptions.