bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiR-34a is up-regulated in response to low dose, low energy X-ray induced DNA damage in breast cells
Authors: Stankevicins Luiza , Almeida da Silva Ana Paula , Ventura dos Passos Flavia , dos Santos Ferreira Evelin , Menks Ribeiro Maria Cecilia , G David Mariano , J Pires Evandro , Ferreira-Machado Samara Cristina , Vassetzky Yegor , de Almeida Carlos Eduardo , de Moura Gallo Claudia Vitoria
Published: October 2013

Background

MicroRNAs are non-coding RNAs involved in the regulation of gene expression including DNA damage responses. Low doses of low energy X-ray radiation, similar to those used in mammographic exams, has been described to be genotoxic. In the present work we investigated the expression of miR-34a; a well described p53-regulated miRNA implicated in cell responses to X-ray irradiation at low doses.

Methods

Non-cancerous breast cell line MCF-10A and cancerous T-47D and MCF-7 cell lines were submitted to a low-energy X-ray irradiation (ranging from 28–30 Kv) using a dose of 5 Gy. The expression level of miR-34a, let-7a and miR-21 was assessed by qRT-PCR at 4 and 24 hours post-irradiation. DNA damage was then measured by comet assay and micronuclei estimation in MCF-10A and MCF-7 cell lines, where an increase of miR-34a levels could be observed after irradiation. The rate of apoptotic cells was estimated by nuclear staining and fluorescence microscopy. These experiments were also performed at low doses (3; 12 and 48 mGy) in MCF-10A and MCF-7 cell lines.

Results

We have observed an increase in miR-34a expression 4 hours post-irradiation at 5 Gy in MCF-10A and MCF-7 cell lines while its level did not change in T-47D, a breast cancer cell line bearing non-functional p53. At low doses, miR-34a was up-regulated in non-tumoral MCF-10A to a higher extent as compared to MCF-7. MiR-34a levels decreased 24 hours post-irradiation. We have also observed DNA damage and apoptosis at low-energy X-ray irradiation at low doses and the high dose in MCF-10A and MCF-7 4 and 24 hours post-irradiation relative to the mock control.

Conclusion

Low energy X-ray is able to promote DNA strand breaks and miR-34a might be involved in cell responses to low energy X-ray DNA damage. MiR-34a expression correlates with X-ray dose, time after irradiation and cell type. The present study reinforces the need of investigating consequences of low dose X-ray irradiation of breast cells.
Identifying reaction modules in metabolic pathways: bioinformatic deduction and experimental validation of a new putative route in purine catabolism
Authors: Barba Matthieu , Dutoit Raphaël , Legrain Christianne , Labedan Bernard
Published: October 2013

Background

Enzymes belonging to mechanistically diverse superfamilies often display similar catalytic mechanisms. We previously observed such an association in the case of the cyclic amidohydrolase superfamily whose members play a role in related steps of purine and pyrimidine metabolic pathways. To establish a possible link between enzyme homology and chemical similarity, we investigated further the neighbouring steps in the respective pathways.

Results

We identified that successive reactions of the purine and pyrimidine pathways display similar chemistry. These mechanistically-related reactions are often catalyzed by homologous enzymes. Detection of series of similar catalysis made by succeeding enzyme families suggested some modularity in the architecture of the central metabolism. Accordingly, we introduce the concept of a reaction module to define at least two successive steps catalyzed by homologous enzymes in pathways alignable by similar chemical reactions. Applying such a concept allowed us to propose new function for misannotated paralogues. In particular, we discovered a putative ureidoglycine carbamoyltransferase (UGTCase) activity. Finally, we present experimental data supporting the conclusion that this UGTCase is likely to be involved in a new route in purine catabolism.

Conclusions

Using the reaction module concept should be of great value. It will help us to trace how the primordial promiscuous enzymes were assembled progressively in functional modules, as the present pathways diverged from ancestral pathways to give birth to the present-day mechanistically diversified superfamilies. In addition, the concept allows the determination of the actual function of misannotated proteins.
Temporal profiling of primary metabolites under chilling stress and its association with seedling chilling tolerance of rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Zhao Xiu-Qin , Wang Wen-Sheng , Zhang Fan , Zhang Ting , Zhao Wen , Fu Bin-Ying , Li Zhi-Kang
Published: October 2013

Background

Chilling stress is a major factor limiting rice production. Rice genotypes differ greatly in their seedling chilling tolerance (CT), which is known to involve differential expression of large numbers of genes and proteins. To further understand the metabolomic responses of rice to chilling stress, profiles of the 106 primary metabolites of a CTjaponicavariety, Lijiangxintuanhegu (LTH) and a chilling sensitiveindicaline, IR29, were investigated under a time-series of chilling stress and non-stress control conditions at the seedling stage.

Results

We identified 106 primary metabolites that were temporally and genotype-dependently regulated in LTH and IR29 under the time-series chilling stress and subsequent recovery. Three major groups of primary metabolites, amino acids (AAs), organic acids (OAs) and sugars, showed distinct change patterns in both genotypes in response to the chilling stress: a more general accumulation of most AAs, more dramatic decreased levels of most OAs, and greatly reduced levels for most sugars at early time points of stress but increased levels of specific sugars at the later time points of stress. Compared to IR29, LTH had more metabolites showing chilling induced changes, greater levels of these metabolomic changes and a greater ability to recover after stress, implying that LTH used a positive energy-saving strategy against chilling stress. During subsequent recovery, more metabolites were significantly and exclusively up-regulated in LTH, indicating their positive role in chilling tolerance. A comparative analysis of these metabolites data and differentially expressed genes data allowed identification of 7 AAs and related genes that were both chilling responsive and contributed greatly to the CT of LTH.

Conclusions

The metabolomic responses of rice to chilling stress at the seedling stage were dynamic and involved large numbers of the metabolites. The chilling induced changes of three major groups of metabolites, AAs, OAs and sugars, in rice were well coordinated. The high level seedling CT of LTH was apparently attributed to its increased levels of most AAs and reduced energy consumption that resulted in increased glycolysis and strong resilience on recovery. The results of this study extend our understanding of molecular mechanisms of chilling stress tolerance in rice.
Synthesis and characterization of transition metal complexes of 4-Amino-5-pyridyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol
Authors: Haddad Raghad , Yousif Emad , Ahmed Ahmed
Published: October 2013

Series of coordination complexes of Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II) and Sn(II) metal with 4-amino-5-(pyridyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol, as a ligand has been successfully prepared in alcoholic medium. The prepared complexes were characterized quantitatively and qualitatively by using: microelemental analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, 1H and 13C NMR, magnetic susceptibility and conductivity measurements. This triazole ligand act as bidentate that coordination to the metal ions through sulphur and amine group. According to the spectral data of the complexes a tetrahedral geometry was suggested for these complexes except Cu (II) complexes which exhibit a square structure.
Preliminary results in quantitation of HLA-DRA by real-time PCR: a promising approach to identify immunosuppression in sepsis
Authors: Cajander Sara , Bäckman Anders , Tina Elisabet , Strålin Kristoffer , Söderquist Bo , Källman Jan
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Reduced monocyte human leukocyte antigen (mHLA)-DR surface expression in the late phase of sepsis is postulated as a general biomarker of sepsis-induced immunosuppression and an independent predictor of nosocomial infections.

However, traditional monitoring of mHLA-DR by flow cytometry has disadvantages due to specific laboratory requirements. An mRNA-based HLA-DR monitoring by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) would improve the clinical usage and facilitate conduction of large multicenter studies. In this study, we evaluated an mRNA-based HLA-DR monitoring by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) as an alternative method to traditional flow cytometry.

Methods

Fifty-nine patients with sepsis and blood culture growing pathogenic bacteria were studied. Blood samples were collected at day 1 or 2 after admission, for measurement of mHLA-DR by flow cytometry and mRNA expression of HLA-DRA and class II transactivator (CIITA) by qRT-PCR. Blood samples from blood donors were used as controls (n = 30).

Results

A significant reduced expression of mHLA-DR, HLA-DRA, and CIITA was seen in septic patients compared with controls. HLA-DRA mRNA level in whole blood was highly correlated with surface expression of mHLA-DR.

Conclusions

Patients with sepsis display a diminished expression of HLA-DR at the monocyte surface as well as in the gene expression at the mRNA level. The mRNA expression level of HLA-DRA monitored by qRT-PCR correlates highly with surface expression of HLA-DR and appears to be a possible future biomarker for evaluation of immunosuppression in sepsis.
Efficiency of porcine somatic cell nuclear transfer – a retrospective study of factors related to embryo recipient and embryos transferred
Authors: Huang Yongye , Ouyang Hongsheng , Yu Hao , Lai Liangxue , Pang Daxin , Li Zhanjun
Published: October 2013

The successful generation of pigs via somatic cell nuclear transfer depends on reducing risk factors in several aspects. To provide an overview of some influencing factors related to embryo transfer, the follow-up data related to cloned pig production collected in our laboratory was examined. (i) Spring showed a higher full-term pregnancy rate compared with winter (33.6% vs 18.6%, P = 0.006). Furthermore, a regression equation can be drawn between full-term pregnancy numbers and pregnancy numbers in different months (y = 0.692x−3.326). (ii) There were no significant differences detected in the number of transferred embryos between surrogate sows exhibiting full-term development compared to those that did not. (iii) Non-ovulating surrogate sows presented a higher percentage of full-term pregnancies compared with ovulating sows (32.0% vs 17.5%, P = 0.004; respectively). (iv) Abortion was most likely to take place between Day 27 to Day 34. (v) Based on Life Table Survival Analysis, delivery in normally fertilized and surrogate sows is expected to be completed before Day 117 or Day 125, respectively. Additionally, the length of pregnancy in surrogate sows was negatively correlated with the average litter size, which was not found for normally fertilized sows. In conclusion, performing embryo transfer in appropriate seasons, improving the quality of embryos transferred, optimizing the timing of embryo transfer, limiting the occurrence of abortion, combined with ameliorating the management of delivery, is expected to result in the harvest of a great number of surviving cloned piglets.
Appendix viriliformis: an intra-abdominal testis and an appendicoileal fistula
Authors: Herrod PJJ , Cirolli R
Published: October 2013

When a patient is taken to theatre for a laparotomy, surprises can still be found despite modern investigative techniques. We present the case of two rare abdominal pathologies (an appendicoileal fistula and an intra-abdominal testis adherent to the vermiform appendix) being found simultaneously and review the literature on these topics.
Hepatobiliary cystadenomas
Authors: Williamson JML , Rees JR , Pope I , Strickland A
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Hepatobiliary cystadenomas are rare cystic tumours that can arise from any portion of the biliary tract but most commonly develop intrahepatically. They typically cause non-specific symptoms and are often detected incidentally. Cystadenomas can be mistaken for simple hepatic cysts on radiological imaging, which leads to inadequate treatment. Hepatobiliary cystadenomas have a malignant predisposition and a high recurrence rate. Complete excision including hepatic resection is therefore generally recommended.

Methods

Three cases of hepatobiliary cystadenoma were identified at one unit over a six-month period. Their clinical details and management are reported.

Results

Three female patients are described aged 25, 37 and 73 years. One patient presented because of recurrent infection, one presented because of pressure related symptoms and one lesion was identified incidentally. All patients were investigated by ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT), two additionally had magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and one had a liver biopsy. The tumours were 4–16cm in size and all lesions were excised by non-anatomical, parenchyma sparing resections. Histology revealed mixed epithelium with underlying ovarian-like stroma.

Conclusions

The management of hepatic cystadenomas as well as operative and pathological findings are discussed. Preoperative ultrasonography, CT and MRI is recommended, and early referral for specialist hepatobiliary review is advised. Operative resection is also recommended and complete excision was achieved in these cases. This strategy is supported by the current literature and recurrence has been shown to be unlikely.
Trends in orthopaedic antimicrobial prophylaxis in the UK between 2005 and 2011
Authors: Aujla RS , Bryson DJ , Gulihar A , Taylor GJ
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Antimicrobial prophylaxis remains the most powerful tool used to reduce infection rates in orthopaedics but the choice of antibiotic is complex. The aim of this study was to examine trends in antimicrobial prophylaxis in orthopaedic surgery involving the insertion of metalwork between 2005 and 2011.

Methods

Two questionnaires (one in 2008 and one in 2011) were sent to all National Health Service trusts in the UK using the Freedom of Information Act.

Results

In total, 87% of trusts that perform orthopaedic surgery responded. The use of cefuroxime more than halved between 2005 and 2011 from 80% to 36% and 78% to 26% in elective surgery and trauma surgery respectively. Combination therapy with flucloxacillin and gentamicin rose from 1% to 32% in elective and 1% to 34% in trauma surgery. Other increasingly popular regimes include teicoplanin and gentamicin (1% to 10% in elective, 1% to 6% in trauma) and co-amoxiclav (3% to 8% in elective, 4% to 14% in trauma). The majority of changes occurred between 2008 and 2010. Over half (56%) of the trusts stated that Clostridium difficile was the main reason for changing regimes.

Conclusions

In 2008 a systematic review involving 11,343 participants failed to show a difference in surgical site infections when comparing different antimicrobial prophylaxis regimes in orthopaedic surgery. Concerns over C difficile and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus have influenced antimicrobial regimes in both trauma and elective surgery. Teicoplanin would be an appropriate choice for antimicrobial prophylaxis in both trauma and elective units but this is not reflected in its current level of popularity.
Minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass versus off-pump coronary surgery through sternotomy
Authors: Birla R , Patel P , Aresu G , Asimakopoulos G
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Although it is not a new technique, minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) is employed only by a few surgeons in the UK. We compared our experience with MIDCAB with that of single vessel off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) graft surgery through a standard median sternotomy.

Methods

Patients who underwent either MIDCAB or OPCAB between April 2008 and July 2011 were reviewed. Exclusion criteria included patients with an ejection fraction of <0.5 or previous cardiac surgery. Data were obtained retrospectively from our prospective database, medical records and through general practitioners.

Results

Overall, 74 patients were analysed in the MIDCAB group and 78 in the OPCAB group. Their demographics and EuroSCORE (European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation) values were comparable (p>0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the two groups in terms of mortality, recurrent myocardial infarction, postoperative stroke, wound infection, atrial fibrillation or need for reintervention. The MIDCAB group had six conversions to a sternotomy. Eight patients in each group required blood transfusion, with the average transfusion being 1.8 units in the MIDCAB group and 3.2 units in the OPCAB group. The mean duration of ventilation and intensive care unit stay was 5.0 hours and 38.4 hours in the MIDCAB group and 5.4 and 47.8 hours in the OPCAB group. The mean hospital stay was significantly reduced in the MIDCAB population (6.1 vs 8.5 days, p<0.05).

Conclusions

MIDCAB can be performed safely in appropriately selected patients with outcomes comparable with OPCAB. The potential benefits include shorter hospital stay, reduced need for blood transfusion and faster recovery.
Spontaneous transanal evisceration
Authors: Walton SJ , Gobara O , Brown K
Published: October 2013

Spontaneous rectal rupture with subsequent transanal evisceration is an unusual phenomenon that has been rarely reported in the literature. Owing to its infrequent occurrence, little is known about the aetiology of this event although a weakening of the anterior rectal wall has been proposed. This article describes the first reported case of spontaneous transanal evisceration occurring in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.
An internal carotid artery aneurysm presenting with dysarthria
Authors: Davey PT , Rychlik I , O’Donnell M , Baker R , Rennie I
Published: October 2013

A 72-year-old woman presented to her general practitioner with a 4-week history of right neck swelling. Clinical examination elicited a pulsatile mass consistent with a carotid artery aneurysm. Five days later the patient noticed her tongue movements had become awkward with associated dysarthria. Computed tomography confirmed a 4cm internal carotid artery aneurysm arising just distally to the carotid bifurcation. She proceeded to transfemoral diagnostic carotid angiography. Balloon occlusion of the right internal carotid artery origin was performed for a ten-minute period without any neurological deficit.

The decision was taken to proceed to surgical ligation of the origin of the internal carotid artery. Her symptoms of dysarthria have resolved.
Chronic wound and postamputation claudication pain in a diabetic patient
Authors: Warner BE , Richards AJ , Biswas M , Chick C , Lewis P , Harding KG
Published: October 2013

Underlying ischaemic disease should be excluded in patients with delayed wound healing. Contrast angiography is a useful imaging method for assessing the specific cause of wound chronicity and may also be helpful in assessing the aetiology of unexplained pain symptoms. Angioplasty provides a practical alternative to more invasive techniques in addressing peripheral ischaemia. Our patient suffered claudication-type pain in his thigh and a non-healing stump wound following below-knee amputation. Magnetic resonance angiography confirmed the presence of arterial stenoses and an angioplasty was successfully performed to improve patency of the profunda femoris vessel. Following the operation, the claudication pain symptoms were significantly reduced and the stump wound went on to heal.
Gastric outlet obstruction with an elevated serum pancreatic lipase secondary to an infraumbilical hernia
Authors: Ranasinghe WKB , Smith M
Published: October 2013

We report the case of a 68-year-old woman who presented with symptoms and signs of gastric outlet obstruction with a history of a ventral hernia. Clinical examination revealed a large ventral hernia with visible peristalsis of the herniated viscera.Initial serum biochemistry revealed a markedly elevated lipase level and deranged renal function.Computed tomography demonstrated an infraumbilical hernia with herniation of the stomach through the ventral defect and distortion of the pancreatic anatomy. The hernia was reduced operatively and repaired, leading to an uneventful recovery.
Back to basics: iatrogenic intravenous cannula embolus
Authors: Khadim MF , Leonard D , Moorehead RA , Hill C
Published: October 2013

We present a case of distal venous embolisation of a peripheral intravenous cannula tip that had lost its structural integrity through repeated failed attempts of insertion of the same cannula, contrary to protocols for intravenous access. Radiological imaging confirmed the presence of a foreign body in the middle finger and the patient was brought to theatre. A 2.2cm long catheter tube was removed via a venotomy from the dorsal digital vein.
Perforated sigmoid colon carcinoma in an irreducible inguinoscrotal hernia
Authors: Tan A , Taylor G , Ahmed T
Published: October 2013

Inguinal (inguinoscrotal) hernia and colon cancer are common conditions. However, it is rare for primary colon cancer to exist in an inguinal hernia sac and even rarer for it to perforate. We report such an event in our patient, who had an irreducible left inguinoscrotal hernia containing a sigmoid colon carcinoma that had perforated. This clinical picture can be easily confused with hernia strangulation unless the clinician is alert to the presence of certain sinister symptoms and signs.
Variability in management of T1 colorectal cancer in wales
Authors: Khalid U , Evans MD , Williams GL , Hanson J , Davies M
Published: October 2013

Introduction

The management of T1 colorectal cancer is controversial. Surgical resection should offer cure in the majority of patients and can stage lymph nodes accurately. Nevertheless, there can be significant associated morbidity and it potentially risks overtreating the patient. Endoscopic/local excision has significantly reduced morbidity but risks undertreating undetected metastatic lymph nodes, thereby compromising oncological outcomes. The aim of this study was to review the practice across Wales over a two-year period.

Methods

Data on T1 tumours for the period of 2009–2011 were collected from the Cancer Network Information System Cymru.

Results

A total of 161 patients were diagnosed as having T1 colorectal cancer (without prior neoadjuvant treatment). The median age was 68 years (range: 14–91 years) and 66% of the patients were male. Forty-eight (30%) of these tumours were screen detected. There were 112 colonic and 49 rectal tumours. Ninety-five patients with colonic tumours (85%) underwent major surgical resections, 51% of which were laparoscopic. Forty patients with rectal cancers (82%) underwent major surgical resection and 45% of these procedures were laparoscopic. The rest of the patients underwent local excision in the form of endoscopic polypectomy or transanal resection.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that there is no consensus in the management of T1 disease across Wales. With the advent of screening and the development of more sophisticated endoscopic techniques, the decision of how to treat T1 colorectal cancer will become a more regular challenge for the colorectal multidisciplinary team. The treatment needs standardisation. For now, however, this balance of risk will need to be made on an individual patient basis.
Scarpa’s fascia and clinical signs: the role of the membranous superficial fascia in the eponymous clinical signs of retroperitoneal catastrophe
Authors: Ullah SM , Grant RC , Johnson M , McAlister VC
Published: October 2013

Introduction

The membranous superficial fascia (MSF) was described early in the 19th century, as was its role in the clinical sign of urethral disruption. Clinical signs of haemorrhage or leakage of pancreatic and biliary fluid into the retroperitoneum, which were described throughout the 20th century, all relied on circumscribed discolouration of the skin of the torso. The objective of this study was to relate the anatomy of the MSF to clinical signs of retroperitoneal catastrophe.

Methods

The MSF was dissected in the torso of seven embalmed cadavers to note its extent and its attachments. The attachments of the MSF were mapped to the areas of skin discolouration that are described in the clinical signs.

Results

The well known extent of the MSF in the inguinal region, its continuation into the perineum and its attachment to the fascia lata of the thigh were confirmed with our method of dissection. Dissection was continued superiorly, demonstrating continuation of the MSF over the entire torso with loose fibrous attachment of the MSF to the deep fascia. The MSF is firmly adherent to the midline of the abdomen except for the umbilicus, to a horizontal line below the clavicles and laterally in the abdomen to form pockets. The lines of firm adhesion correspond with the borders of the discoloured areas described in the clinical signs.

Conclusions

Circumscription of discolouration seen in the eponymous clinical signs of retroperitoneal catastrophe is explained by confinement of coloured retroperitoneal fluid by the MSF and its deep attachments.
Operative strategy for fistula-in-ano without division of the anal sphincter
Authors: Fung AKY , Card GV , Ross NP , Yule SR , Aly EH
Published: October 2013

Introduction

The treatment of perianal fistulas is diverse because no single technique is universally effective. Fistulotomy remains the most effective way of eradicating the pathology but it renders the patient at some risk of faecal incontinence, which many patients are reluctant to take. There are no data in the literature to indicate the healing rate of perianal fistulas when using an operative strategy that routinely avoids division of any part of the anal sphincter. The aim of this paper is to present the long-term results with an operative strategy that aims to avoid division of any part of the anal sphincter complex when treating all types of perianal fistulas, thereby minimising/eliminating the risk of postoperative incontinence.

Methods

We report 54 consecutive cases of anal fistula that presented electively and as an emergency. Patients with known or subsequently diagnosed inflammatory bowel disease or malignancy were excluded from the study.

Result

Overall, 46 patients (37 male and 9 female) with a median age at presentation of 42 years (range: 19–73 years) were treated by lay-open of the subcutaneous tract of the perianal fistula and insertion of a loose seton for the part of the fistula tract related to the sphincter complex. The types of fistula treated were intersphincteric (89%), transsphincteric (4%) and high suprasphincteric (7%). The median length of time that the seton was left in place was 7 months (range: 1.5–24 months). The healing rate was 86% with a recurrence rate of 19% and a median follow-up duration of 42 months.

Conclusions

Patients who are reluctant to take any risk of faecal incontinence could be treated using an operative strategy that routinely avoids division of any part of the anal sphincter complex as this has a recurrence rate that compares well with other treatment modalities.
The performance of routine computed tomography for the detection of colorectal cancer
Authors: Colvin H , Lukram A , Sohail I , Chung KT , Jehangir E , Berry J , Babu H , Hinson F
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Although colonoscopy and computed tomography (CT) colonography in expert hands are the most sensitive investigations for colorectal cancer, some patients may not tolerate the necessary bowel preparation and insufflation of gas into the colon. We assessed the performance of unprepared contrast CT for the detection of colorectal cancer.

Methods

A retrospective review was undertaken of all patients who had contrast CT of the abdomen and pelvis and then went on to have colonoscopy at our institutions between 2007 and 2010.

Results

Overall, 96 patients were identified as having had CT prior to colonoscopy. The sensitivity of CT in detecting colorectal cancer was 100% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 19.8–100%) and the specificity was 95.7% (95% CI: 88.8–98.6%). The positive predictive value was 33.3% (95% CI: 6.0–75.9%) and the negative predictive value was 100% (95% CI: 94.8–100%).

Conclusions

Non-targeted CT that is negative for colorectal malignancy is usually reassuring but the decision for further investigations should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account of the likelihood of underlying colorectal malignancy and the underlying co-morbidities of the patient. However, video colonoscopy is usually necessary to assess positive CT findings.
Effect of novel vitamin D receptor activator paricalcitol on renal ischaemia/reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: Azak A , Huddam B , Haberal N , Koçak G , Ortabozkoyun L , Şenes M , Akdoğan MF , Denizli N , Duranay M
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Despite the developments in modern medicine, acute renal injury is still a challenging and common health problem. It is well known that ischaemia and reperfusion takes place in pathological mechanisms. Efforts to clarify the pathophysiology and interventions to improve outcomes are essential. Our study aimed to investigate whether the prophylactic use of paricalcitol is beneficial in renal ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury.

Methods

Twenty-four Wistar albino rats were assigned randomly to four groups. Right nephrectomies were performed at the time of renal arterial clamping. Sham surgery was performed on the rats in group 1. For the rats in group 2, the left renal artery was clamped for 45 minutes. The rats in group 3 received paricalcitol for seven days (0.2µg/kg/day); following this, a right nephrectomy and left renal arterial clamping were not performed. The rats in group 4 received paricalcitol for seven days (0.2µg/ kg/day); following this, a right nephrectomy and left renal arterial clamping for 45 minutes were performed. Tissue thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), superoxide dismutase, sulfhydryl groups as well as nitric oxide metabolites, serum urea and creatinine levels were measured for all four groups.

Results

In group 4, there were some improvements in terms of TBARS, nitrite, nitrate, superoxide dismutase and creatinine levels. In the histopathological evaluation, paricalcitol therapy improved tubular necrosis and medullar congestion but there was no significant difference in terms of tubular cell swelling, cellular vacuolisation or general damage. Immunohistopathological examination revealed lower scores for vascular endothelial growth factor in the group 4 rats than in group 2.

Conclusions

Paricalcitol therapy improved renal I/R injury in terms of serum and histopathological parameters. These potential beneficial effects need to be further investigated.
Comparison of clinical outcomes of open, laparoscopic and single port appendicectomies
Authors: Jiang X , Meng HB , Zhou DL , Ding WX , Lu LS
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Appendicectomy is the most common surgical procedure performed in general surgery. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of open appendicectomy (OA), laparoscopic appendicectomy (LA) and single port laparoscopic appendicectomy (SPLA).

Methods

Fifty consecutive patients with suspected acute appendicitis were studied (OA: n=20, LA: n=20, SPLA: n=10). Clinical outcomes were compared between the three groups in terms of operative time, blood loss, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay and cost.

Results

Patient demographics were similar among groups (p>0.05). SPLA was characterised by longer operative time (88.1 minutes vs 35.6 minutes in OA and 33.4 minutes in LA) and higher costs (12.84 thousand Chinese yuan [RMB] vs 8.41 thousand RMB in LA and 4.99 thousand RMB in OA). OA was characterised by more blood loss (9.8ml vs 7.5ml in SPLA and 6.8ml in LA), longer hospital stay (7.5 days vs 3.5 days in LA and 3.4 days in SPLA) and lower costs. The total number of complications was higher for OA (n=2) than for LA and SPLA (n=0) although this was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Where feasible, LA should be undertaken as the initial treatment of choice for most cases of suspected appendicitis.
Barthes, The Neutral, and Our Neutrality
Authors: Schwartz Henry P.
Published: October 2013

In order to explore the psychoanalytic concept of neutrality, the essay considers the late work of Roland Barthes. Neutrality has had an unstable career in the history of psychoanalysis: a shibboleth to some practitioners, a charade to others, and never consistently defined within the field. After sketching out one central conflict in how analysts have understood this concept, the author engages in an associative process with Barthes' course on what he called "the Neutral." Barthes' approach to reading a text, in which reader and writer become inextricably mixed, becomes a generative source for understanding the psychoanalytic relationship and the process that follows. Pleasure emerges in the ambiguity of free association as the arrogance of certainty and self fade away.
Curtis’s Cephaloscope: Deafness and the Making of Surgical Authority in London, 1816–1845
Authors: Virdi-Dhesi Jaipreet
Published: October 2013

Aural surgery is a branch of nineteenth-century medicine and surgery providing specialized treatment for ear diseases. During the 1830s, faced with a “popular prejudice” against the curability of deafness as well as intraprofessional rivalries and continuous accusations of quackery, aurists found their surgical authority questioned and their field’s value threatened. In an attempt to bolster aural surgery’s reputation, in 1841, the aurist John Harrison Curtis (1778–1856) introduced his new diagnostic instrument, the cephaloscope, which could not only improve diagnosis but also provide approaches for regulating aural knowledge, thus strengthening aural surgery’s authority. This article examines the motives underlying Curtis’s introduction of the cephaloscope and the meanings it held for the occupational group at large.
A Mother’s Responsibility: Women, Medicine, and the Rise of Contemporary Vaccine Skepticism in the United States
Authors: Conis Elena
Published: October 2013

Federal efforts to expand childhood immunization coverage in the United States in the 1970s relied heavily on the cooperation of mothers and were concurrent with a major social movement of the past century: the women’s movement. This article examines popular and scientific immunization rhetoric of the 1970s and 1980s through a feminist lens, to demonstrate how changing ideas about the social and economic roles of women in this period shaped, on the one hand, official vaccination recommendations and, on the other, women’s acceptance of vaccines recommended for their children. Notably, the feminist and women’s health movements changed the way women related to and perceived doctors, medical advice, and scientific expertise, with important implications for how some women perceived vaccines and their attendant risks. The influence of feminist ideas on the vaccine doubts that took shape in this period reveal the complexity of the ideologies informing the rise of contemporary vaccine skepticism.
Open Door for Books
Authors: Tang Yun
Published: October 2013

This study charts the foreign books that the Chinese have been reading over the past three decades and introduces how Western thoughts have contributed to China’s economic miracle. The essay explores the sources of China’s social progress under the Open Door Policy, concluding that “Without the influence of foreign books, there would have been no Chinese economic success” (p. 269). Although volumes have been written on China, little attention has been paid to mainstream Chinese intellectual trends since 1978. This essay, thus, has dealt with a consequential issue in a provocative and original way and contains information that has never appeared in English.
Rousseau and the Desire for Communion
Authors: Neidleman Jason
Published: October 2013

Whatever the differences among Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s various models of recovery and reconciliation, they are unified by a desire for communion, whether it be communion with
nature, with God, or with one’s fellow human beings. This article explores the various ways
in which the impulse toward communion is pursued across the spectrum of Rousseau’s writings
on society and solitude. When Rousseau’s writings are read through the lens of communion,
symmetries emerge among Rousseau’s otherwise disparate models of reconciliation.
Emerson, China, and the Uses of Literature
Authors: Da Nan Z.
Published: October 2013

This essay reconceptualizes Ralph Waldo Emerson's transnationalism. Emerson took an active interest in China late in his career amidst emerging national fantasies of Sino-American collaboration and took this opportunity to rearticulate an earlier theory of social reform: the notion that one can be non-dialectically jolted into a new idea/opinion/doxa without committing to said idea/opinion/doxa. Emerson's unorthodox thoughts on China and China's own use of its literature can help us adjust the prospect of China's role in ninteenth-century American letters and, more importantly, help us fill in the logical steps between his late reform politics and his lifelong endorsement of Universal intellectual socialism.
Circulation and Resistance: The Marrow of Tradition and the 1900 New Orleans Race Riot
Authors: Fraser Gordon
Published: October 2013

While scholars have long understood Charles W. Chesnutt's novel, The Marrow of Tradition (1901), as a fictionalization of the 1898 race riot and political coup in Wilmington, North Carolina, this article suggests that the novel can be more fully understood by looking to a second historical soruce: the July 1900 New Orleans race riot. It is this event, not the Wilmington incident, that most shapes Chesnutt's depiction of a violent black response to the white mob. After establishing that mainstream press accounts in 1900 consistently justified lynching by focusing on the black violence that ostensible preceded it, this article demonstrates that Marrow responds by re-casting black-on-white violence as the inevitable result—rather than the cause—of white supremacist logics. While possibly building upon Ida B. Wells-Barnett's Mob Rule in New Orleans (1900), Chesnutt's novel fictionalizes white press accounts of New Orleans resident Robert Charles, who killed seven white men while evading police and defending himself from a mob seekign to lynch him. In the character of Josh Green, and particularly in Green's fictional defense of a black hospital in the novel's concluding scenes, Chesnutt rewrites white press accounts of Robert Charles's death at the hands of the mob. By doing so, Chesnutt does more than simply condemn the widespread violence against the black middle class, which received condemnation in the northern press. He also challenges press accounts, north and south, that depicted working-class black men as a latent source of danger, accounts that justified the widespread lynching of the period.
Natural Hazards, Diverse Economy and Livelihoods in the Sierra de las Minas, Guatemala
Authors: Sutton Lindsey , Restrepo Carla
Published: October 2013

Los residentes de la pequeña comunidad montañosa de Santa Rosalía en la Sierra de Las Minas, Guatemala, viven con la amenaza de riesgos naturales. A pesar de experimentar lluvias estacionales poco predecibles y los retos que estas conllevan, los residentes de Santa Rosalía continúan viviendo bajo circunstancias de aislamiento y vulnerabilidad. En nuestra investigación hacemos uso de análisis cartográficos, una evaluación histórica y datos de entrevistas para entender la manera en que personas sujetas a riesgos naturales continúan desarrollando sus vidas en sitios con estas características. En este trabajo integramos las teorías de diversidad de medios de vida, diversidad de economías, y sistemas humanos y naturales acoplados bajo un solo marco conceptual a través del cual evaluamos la diversidad de actividades y potencial de construcción de resiliencia para la gente y sitio.
Dry Season Runoff and Natural Water Storage Capacity in the High Andean Catchment of the River Ronquillo in the Northern Sierra of Peru
Authors: Krois Joachim , Abendroth Sven , Schulte Achim , Schneider Michael
Published: October 2013

In the northern Sierra of Peru, water scarcity issues arise owing to the seasonal rainfall distribution and the lack of appropriate natural water storage capacity of river basins. The present study assesses the base flow and water storage volume of the Ronquillo watershed, an important rivulet for water abstraction for the city of Cajamarca. Mean base flow is 184 ls -1 , thus representing 44 percent of total stream flow. Flow recession curve analysis yields a mean catchment water storage volume of 3.57 × 10 6 m³, which corresponds to a runoff depth of 85 mm. The dischargeable water storage volume of Andosols, a soil type known to be a very important water reservoir in the Andes, corresponds to a runoff depth of 33 mm. Moreover, the study shows that the geological environment is of major relevance. Springs (18 mm) and an effluent flow regime (20 mm) contribute significantly to dry seasonal runoff. The findings imply that water conservation in the Ronquillo watershed should place emphasis not only on the preservation of soils, but also on subsurface water flow paths, as water availability is affected by processes operating beyond topographically derived catchment boundaries. En el norte de la Sierra del Perú, surgen problemas de escasez de agua debido a la distribución de la precipitación estacional y la falta de capacidad de almacenamiento de agua natural adecuado de las cuencas hidrográficas. El presente estudio evalúa el flujo base y el volumen de almacenamiento de agua de la cuenca del Ronquillo, un arroyo importante para la extracción de agua para la ciudad de Cajamarca. El flujo media de base es de 184 ls -1 , lo que representa 44 porciento del flujo total de corriente. Del análisis de la curva de flujo de recesión se obtiene un volumen de almacenamiento de agua de captación media de 3.57 × 10 6 m³, lo que corresponde a una profundidad de 85 mm de escurrimiento. El volumen de almacenamiento de agua descargable de Andosoles, un tipo de suelo conocido por ser un depósito de agua muy importante en los Andes, corresponde a una profundidad de 33 mm de escurrimiento. Por otra parte, el estudio muestra que el entorno geológico es de gran relevancia. Ojos de agua (18 mm) y un régimen de caudal de los efluentes (20 mm) contribuyen de manera significativa a secar la escorrentía estacional. Los resultados implican que la conservación del agua en la cuenca del Ronquillo debe poner énfasis no solo en la conservación de los suelos, sino también en las trayectorias de flujo de agua del subsuelo, ya que la disponibilidad de agua se ve afectada por los procesos que operan más allá de las fronteras de captación derivadas topográficamente.
When the State Becomes the Land Grabber: Violence and Dispossession in the Name of ‘Development’ in Brazil
Authors: Pedlowski Marcos A.
Published: October 2013

Para maximizar o comércio de commodities, o governo brasileiro lançou o Programa de Aceleração do Crescimento (PAC) para modernizar a infraestrutura do país. Além disso, ambos os governos federal e estadual têm aumentado o financiamento público para megaempreendimentos privados através de parcerias público/privadas. A combinação dessas iniciativas resultou na invasão de grandes corporações (nacionais e multinacionais) em territórios ocupados por índios, quilombolas e camponeses. Apesar do fato de que a Constituição Federal brasileira têm vários artigos que estipulam medidas a serem tomadas pelo Estado para preservar os direitos de proprietários de terras, a lei não está sendo seguido, e milhares de famílias estão sendo despejadas sem a devida compensação financeira. Este artigo irá discutir um caso de apropriação “legal” de terras que está acontecendo em uma área costeira do norte do estado do Rio de Janeiro, onde centenas de famílias de pequenos agricultores estão sendo removidos à força de suas terras para permitir a construção do Complexo Industrial do Superporto do Açu.
Colonial y animado: percepción del Centro Histórico de Morelia entre los residentes de la ciudad
Authors: Sizzo Ilia Alvarado
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the results of a survey conducted among residents of Morelia to study their perceptions about the historic center of the city, which is part of the World Heritage List since 1991. The study was conducted through a survey to group of city’s inhabitants. The results revealed that the monumental area of Morelia is carrying a heavy symbolic burden in the perception of the residents, and is also the preferred place to reside and engage in recreational activities. In terms of the perception of needs in the central zone, stresses safety and best urban equipment on the issues of parking and public transport
The Rhetoric of Civil Rights Photographs: James Meredith's March Against Fear
Authors: Thornton Davi Johnson
Published: October 2013

This essay analyzes visual and verbal media discourses surrounding James Meredith's 1966 March Against Fear as a microcosm of national tensions surrounding race and place in mid-1960s America. Specifically, I analyze Jack Thornell's famous photo of Meredith, taken seconds after he was felled by a sniper attack on the second day of his march. Thornell's photograph, I argue, functioned as the centerpiece of an intensive national conversation on race and place, carried out in captions and accompanying news stories and editorials. The image condenses conflicting discourses working to reconcile acceptance of the inevitability of integration with deep-seated fears about the movement of black bodies into white spaces. These tensions were worked out at least in part through languages of emotion that "placed" black and white bodies in social relationships and defined their respective fitness for public spaces. Because Thornell's photograph captures an intensely emotional scene and depicts an event defined as fundamentally about emotion (a march "against fear"), it is an especially powerful visualization of the conflicts surrounding race and place in the 1960s.
Perceptions of Institutional Commitment to Diversity as a Predictor of College Students' Openness to Diverse Perspectives
Authors: Harper Casandra E. , Yeung Fanny
Published: October 2013

This study examined longitudinal data by multiple regression analyses to determine personal and institutional characteristics associated with students' openness to diverse perspectives. Students' openness was positively associated with (a) feeling that the university was committed to diversity issues, (b) taking diversity courses, and (c) interacting with students of a different racial or ethnic group. Among students of color, openness was significantly predicted by (a) the racial diversity of students' friendship group, (b) feeling that the university supported ethnic and religious support networks, and (c) taking diversity courses. Among White students, the unique predictor was interacting with students of a different race at informal social events.
Difficulties for University Students with Mental Health Problems: A Critical Interpretive Synthesis
Authors: Markoulakis Roula , Kirsh Bonnie
Published: October 2013

Postsecondary institutions are witnessing an increase in the number and severity of student mental health problems, necessitating an understanding of the difficulties these students encounter in striving for higher education. The authors conducted a critical interpretive synthesis of 10 articles pertaining to difficulties experienced by students with mental health problems and found that three synthetic constructs captured the nature of these difficulties: internal difficulties (physical, psychological, and social), external difficulties (structural and stigma) and academic outcomes (difficulties with disclosure and academic impairment). Findings are discussed in light of a critical exploration of the construction of problematics and assumptions in the literature.