bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Test Battery of Cranial Nerves VII and VIII for Assessing Herpes Zoster Oticus
Authors: Huang Yun‐Chen , Wang Shou‐Jen , Young Yi‐Ho
Published: November 2014

Objective

This study adopted a test battery of cranial nerves (CNs) VII and VIII comprising a facial nerve function test, audiometry, a caloric test, and ocular and cervical vestibular‐evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP and cVEMP, respectively) tests to assess the function of CNs VII and VIII comprehensively so as to predict facial nerve recovery in patients with herpes zoster oticus (HZO).

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

University hospital.

Methods

A total of 20 patients with HZO underwent a test battery of CNs VII and VIII. Registering the unaffected nerve bundles in the internal auditory canal was based on the number of normal results in the test battery of CNs VII and VIII. Fair facial nerve recovery is defined as the improvement of facial paresis to facial nerve grades I to II/VI.

Results

In 20 patients with HZO, 6, 7, 3, and 4 patients had 0, 1, 2, and 3 unaffected nerve bundles, respectively. A significantly positive correlation was identified between the number of unaffected nerve bundles and fair facial nerve recovery. Similarly, a statistically significant predictor of fair facial nerve recovery was noted for unaffected nerve bundles (odds ratio, 15.42) but not for grading of the facial nerve (odds ratio, 0.49).

Conclusion

Grading of the facial nerve alone fails to predict the outcome of facial paresis in patients with HZO mainly because it overlooks the involvement of CN VIII. Alternatively, a combined test battery of CNs VII and VIII may serve as a strong predictor for facial nerve recovery.
Outcome After Surgical Repair of Proximal Hamstring Avulsions
Authors: van der Made Anne D. , Reurink Gustaaf , Gouttebarge Vincent , Tol Johannes L. , Kerkhoffs Gino M.
Published: November 2014

Background:

At the present time, no systematic review, including a quality assessment, has been published about the outcome after proximal hamstring avulsion repair.

Purpose:

To determine the outcome after surgical repair of proximal hamstring avulsions, to compare the outcome after acute (≤4 weeks) and delayed repairs (>4 weeks), and to compare the outcome after different surgical techniques.

Study Design:

Systematic review and best-evidence synthesis.

Methods:

PubMed, CINAHL, SPORTdiscus, Cochrane library, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched (up to December 2013) for eligible studies. Two authors screened the search results separately, while quality assessment was performed by 2 authors independently using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. A best-evidence synthesis was subsequently used.

Results:

Thirteen studies (387 participants) were included in this review. There were no studies with control groups of nonoperatively treated proximal hamstring avulsions. All studies had a low methodological quality. After surgical repair of proximal hamstring avulsion, 76% to 100% returned to sports, 55% to 100% returned to preinjury activity level, and 88% to 100% were satisfied with surgery. Mean hamstring strength varied between reporting studies (78%-101%), and hamstring endurance and flexibility were fully restored compared with the unaffected side. Symptoms of residual pain were reported by 8% to 61%, and reported risk of major complications was low (3% rerupture rate). No to minimal difference in outcome was found between acute and delayed repair in terms of return to sports, patient satisfaction, hamstring strength, and pain. Achilles allograft reconstruction and primary repair with suture anchors led to comparable results.

Conclusion:

The quality of studies included is low. Surgical repair of proximal hamstring avulsions appears to result in a subjective highly satisfying outcome. However, decreased strength, residual pain, and decreased activity level were reported by a relevant number of patients. Minimal to no differences in outcome of acute and delayed repairs were found. Limited evidence suggests that an Achilles allograft reconstruction yields results comparable with primary repair in delayed cases where primary repair is not possible. High-level studies are required to confirm these findings.
Aesthetic Perception and the Critique of Emblems: The Politics of the Visible in the Public Sphere in Africa
Authors: Bidima Jean-Godefroy
Published: November 2014

This paper examines the “policies of sign” developed in several African countries, describing some of the main emblems that are used to mark national or group identities: flags, coins, banknotes, and philately. It tries to bring to light the implicit narratives that belong to the way how these emblems are shaped, and draws conclusions that are relevant to the political, social, and cultural life of the involved communities.
Science and politics in the regulation of human embryonic stem-cell research in Brazil
Authors: Mitre Maya , Reis Bruno P.W.
Published: November 2014

This case study deals with the regulation of human embryonic stem-cell (hESC) research in Brazil. It aims to analyze the process that led to the authorization, in 2005, of the use of stem cells obtained from so-called supernumerary embryos for purposes of research and therapy. We argue that the pro-research lobby in Brazil had considerable success because it framed the issue by referring to Brazil’s peculiar policy background in the fields of assisted reproduction and embryo research. Moreover, this group of actors strategically avoided associating hESC research with abortion, highlighting the humanitarian aspects of this kind of research, rather than the motto of freedom of scientific research. Finally, it was able to rely on the judgment of a fairly progressive Supreme Court, which was also sensitive to public opinion at a time of ‘court activism’ or the ‘judicialization of politics’ in Brazil.
More than entertainment: YouTube and public responses to the science of global warming and climate change
Authors: Shapiro Matthew A. , Park Han Woo
Published: November 2014

The public receives and presents science-related information on global warming and climate change in many forms, but little is known about how this information is conveyed through the Internet. More specifically, very few studies have considered YouTube videos focusing on climate change. This study provides a better understanding of how this type of information may be disseminated through several levels of analysis. For this purpose, the exact narrative for the 10 most popular videos about climate change was first established by concentrating particularly on the presentation of the science of climate change. Then the public’s responses to and engagement in each video were examined through a semantic analysis of comments on the video. The results indicate that, regardless of the narrative, science-based comments dominated, but often discussed climate change in general instead of specific videos to which they were attached. In the absence of gatekeepers, YouTube users rode the coattails of popular videos about climate change and addended the videos’ messages by highlighting evidence of weak, strong, or politicized science.
Personal Values as Predictors of Donor- Versus Recipient-Focused Organizational Helping Philosophies
Authors: Rempel Steven Reesor , Burris Christopher T.
Published: November 2014

Variations in endorsement of organizational philosophies of helping as a function of the personal values of prospective helpers were explored. Composite ratings from prospective helpers revealed two distinct philosophies: short-term, donor-focused helping (SDH) and long-term, recipient-oriented helping (LRH). Despite their moderate overlap, LRH and SDH proved to be differentially related to personal values: LRH was positively related to self-transcendence values and negatively related to self-enhancement values, whereas SDH seemed congruent with affirming one’s personal power and preserving the status quo. SDH also predicted self-reported prosocial behaviors (financial contributions and/or volunteering) in response to the 2010 Haitian earthquake, whereas LRH and personal values did not.
Military History from the Street: New Methods for Researching First World War Service in the British Military
Authors: Grayson Richard S.
Published: November 2014

Local studies of military service in the First World War have traditionally focused on ‘Pals’ or other units known to be linked to a specific area. However, the availability of new records online has revolutionized the way in which local studies can be carried out. A ‘military history from the street’ approach can now document and analyse service by all those from a local area who served. The article explains how such socio-military methods, as used in the author’s monograph on West Belfast ( Belfast Boys, London, Continuum, 2009), can be adapted to other areas, with a particular focus on employment data not included in that study.
Contending Views on Nigeria’s Diplomatic Missions
Authors: Saliu Hassan A.
Published: November 2014

Nigeria since 1960 when she emerged on the global scene as an independent country has evolved a culture of having representation across the world in the categories of temporary and permanent missions. This she has been doing to give effect to her desire for rapid development and hegemonic role on the African continent. Within a space of twenty years and occasioned by the oil boom that visited the country, a kind of explosion took place in the number of diplomatic missions that she had. This increase necessarily brought about two noticeable major developments; inadequacy in the number of Foreign Service Personnel and the urge to open more missions for more global recognition. In the decades of the 1970s and 1980s, the high number of missions did not generate any debate as the strength of the national economy was capable of carrying the burden associated with the missions.

 However, the advent of the Fourth Republic in 1999 has raised the profile of diplomatic missions in the diplomatic circles. The cry for a reduction in the number of missions is loud enough to generate discomfort in the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs that prefers reducing the diplomatic staff strength. Another perspective exists that calls for the restructuring of the missions to achieve balance and give adequate recognition to the new dynamics in Nigeria’s external relations. All these dimensions have invariably weakened the consensus necessary to propel the foreign policy to a higher level of delivery.

 The thrust of this article is therefore an engagement of the contending views on Nigeria’s diplomatic missions. It holds the view that the raging debate on what the country should do with her high number of diplomatic missions is unhelpful as it has the potential of sweeping crucial issues such as the development of a strategic vision for her foreign policy that derives from her location in the international system, the place foreign policy in governmental affairs, etc., that have produced discernible effects on the country’s foreign policy under the carpet. This is the position taken in the article.
Border Economy and the Production of Collective Subjects in India’s East and the North East
Authors: Das Samir Kumar
Published: November 2014

While globalisation unleashes forces that the Indian State1 finds increasingly difficult to stop and contain, a variety of intermediate institutions has emerged in recent years ranging between a fully securitised State and a State integrated fully into the world economy. These obviously call new configurations of border and border economy into existence as much as contribute to the production of new and hitherto unknown political subjects. Border economy produces the community and not the other way round. Border trade is one of the many instrumentalities through which the flow of persons, goods and services is sought to be contained in order to help making the nation in the border. Ethnicity and ethnic identification serve as a technology for governing the unofficial trade and contributes to the production of ethnic subject. Besides, it is important to understand how a number of people eke out a living by taking advantage of differential pricing across the border. Thus, the labouring life of the subaltern has become an agent, and a moral community thus gets produced, bringing about, in the process, mutation in the dominant discourses of national security and functional integration.
Book Review: Goswami, Uddipana, Conflict and Reconciliation:  The Politics of Ethnicity in Assam
Authors: Ahmed Abu Nasar Saied
Published: November 2014

Goswami, Uddipana, Conflict and Reconciliation:  The Politics of Ethnicity in Assam (New Delhi: Routledge, 2014). Pp. xvi + 223, Price ₹ 695.
Book Review: Kumaraswamy, P.R. (Ed.), Persian Gulf 2013: India’s Relations with the Region
Authors: Siddiqui Fazzur Rahman
Published: November 2014

Kumaraswamy, P.R. (Ed.), Persian Gulf 2013: India’s Relations with the Region (New Delhi: SAGE Publications India Pvt. Ltd, 2014). Pp. 305, Price ₹ 795.
Psychometric Reevaluation of Parental Press for Academic Achievement and Postsecondary Planning Scale
Authors: Bates Samantha , Ball Annahita , Wilks Scott
Published: November 2014

Objective:

Psychometric details of the Parental Press for Academic Achievement and Postsecondary Planning Scale (PPS), developed by Chicago Consortium of Chicago School Research, are scarce. The purpose of this study was to reexamine the properties of this 7-item measure.

Method:

The study utilized cross-sectional, self-reported data from 100 low-income, first-generation undergraduate students at a university in the southern United States.

Results:

Factor analysis on the PPS revealed two dimensions with all items loaded, accounting for 81.44% of the variance. Reliability of the PPS was sound, that is, average interitem correlation was .62 and Cronbach’s α and split-half coefficients were .918 and .923, respectively. Convergent validity was suggested via significant correlations between the PPS and its theoretically similar constructs, that is, valuation of high school ( r = .32) and parental support for college ( r = .82).

Conclusion:

The PPS appears to be psychometrically appropriate for appraising students’ perceptions of parental support for academic success and postsecondary education.
The experience of Singaporean caregivers with a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and challenging behaviours
Authors: Foo Magdalene , Yap Patricia Michelle Eng Hui , Sung Min
Published: November 2014

This qualitative study presents an in-depth and idiographic analysis of the lived experience of parent-caregivers with a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who exhibits challenging behaviours. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six parents of children with ASD and who met the Child Behaviour Checklist for Ages 6–18 (CBCL/6–18) Total Problems T score of 60 and above. The interviews were conducted at a child and adolescent psychiatry clinic in Singapore. Transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Two dominant themes emerged: sense of responsibility and renewed appreciation of self. The caregivers’ sense of responsibility not only encompassed parental duty, spousal duty but also duty to the community. Through the process of meaning making and coordinating actions with their child, spouse and social relations, over time the caregivers developed a deeper appreciation of their personal strengths and resourcefulness. The findings suggest that clinical practice and future research would benefit from a family resilience perspective in understanding caregivers’ experience.
Internal Structure Analysis of a Tobacco Control Network on the U.S.–México Border
Authors: Cooper Theodore V. , Cabriales José Alonso , Taylor Thom , Hernandez Nora , Law Jon , Kelly Michael
Published: November 2014

Tobacco control (TC) networks (in which multiple agencies collaborate) are essential components within comprehensive TC efforts. The aim of this study was to assess the internal coalition outcomes hierarchy model (via the Internal Coalition Effectiveness [ICE] scale) in the present sample. Participants (members of a TC Network on the U.S.–México border; independent Waves 1 [ N = 30] and 2 [ N = 33; at a 1-year subsequent assessment]) completed a background questionnaire and an adapted version of the ICE scale. Mean values for ICE subscales suggested a strong enthusiasm of Network members and recognition of the importance of a cohesive social vision, employment of efficient practices, a need for improved and maintained knowledge/training, and stable social relationships among members. However, no significant differences were observed between data waves in the ICE subscales, multivariate analysis of variance: λ = .97, F(4, 43) = 0.31, p > .86. Considering a multifaceted assessment may enhance the understanding of the dynamics and strengths of the Network. Finally, including an assessment of the leadership’s perspective regarding internal coalition outcome hierarchy model constructs to compare them with members’ perspective is warranted.
The Responsiveness, Content Validity, and Convergent Validity of the Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing (MYCaW) Patient-Reported Outcome Measure
Authors: Jolliffe Rachel , Seers Helen , Jackson Sarah , Caro Elena , Weeks Laura , Polley Marie J.
Published: November 2014

Objective. Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing (MYCaW) is a patient-centered questionnaire that allows cancer patients to identify and quantify the severity of their “concerns” and “wellbeing,” as opposed to using a predetermined list. MYCaW administration is brief and aids in prioritizing treatment approaches. Our goal was to assess the convergent validity and responsiveness of MYCaW scores over time, the generalizability of the existing qualitative coding framework in different complementary and integrative oncology settings and content validity. Methods. Baseline and 6-week follow-up data (n = 82) from MYCaW and FACIT-SpEx questionnaires were collected for a service evaluation of the Living Well with the Impact of Cancer course at Penny Brohn Cance Care. MYCaW convergent validity was determined using Spearman’s rank correlation test, and responsiveness indices assessed score changes over time. The existing qualitative coding framework was reviewed using a new data set (n = 158) and coverage of concern categories compared with items of existing outcome measures. Results. Good correlation between MYCaW and FACIT-SpEx score changes were achieved ( r = −0.57, P ≥ .01). MYCaW Profile and Concern scores were highly responsive to change: standardized response mean = 1.02 and 1.08; effect size = 1.26 and 1.22. MYCaW change scores showed the anticipated gradient of change according to clinically relevant degrees of change. Categories, including “spirituality,” “weight change,” and “practical concerns” were added to the coding framework to improve generalizability. Conclusions. MYCaW scores were highly responsive to change, allowing personalized patient outcomes to be quantified; the qualitative coding framework appears generalizable across different integrative oncology settings and has broader coverage of patient-identified concerns compared with existing cancer-related patient-reported outcome measures.
Neural Point-and-Click Communication by a Person With Incomplete Locked-In Syndrome
Authors: Bacher Daniel , Jarosiewicz Beata , Masse Nicolas Y. , Stavisky Sergey D. , Simeral John D. , Newell Katherine , Oakley Erin M. , Cash Sydney S. , Friehs Gerhard , Hochberg Leigh R.
Published: November 2014

A goal of brain–computer interface research is to develop fast and reliable means of communication for individuals with paralysis and anarthria. We evaluated the ability of an individual with incomplete locked-in syndrome enrolled in the BrainGate Neural Interface System pilot clinical trial to communicate using neural point-and-click control. A general-purpose interface was developed to provide control of a computer cursor in tandem with one of two on-screen virtual keyboards. The novel BrainGate Radial Keyboard was compared to a standard QWERTY keyboard in a balanced copy-spelling task. The Radial Keyboard yielded a significant improvement in typing accuracy and speed—enabling typing rates over 10 correct characters per minute. The participant used this interface to communicate face-to-face with research staff by using text-to-speech conversion, and remotely using an internet chat application. This study demonstrates the first use of an intracortical brain–computer interface for neural point-and-click communication by an individual with incomplete locked-in syndrome.
Evaluating surrogate endpoints, prognostic markers, and predictive markers: Some simple themes
Authors: Baker Stuart G , Kramer Barnett S
Published: November 2014

Background:

A surrogate endpoint is an endpoint observed earlier than the true endpoint (a health outcome) that is used to draw conclusions about the effect of treatment on the unobserved true endpoint. A prognostic marker is a marker for predicting the risk of an event given a control treatment; it informs treatment decisions when there is information on anticipated benefits and harms of a new treatment applied to persons at high risk. A predictive marker is a marker for predicting the effect of treatment on outcome in a subgroup of patients or study participants; it provides more rigorous information for treatment selection than a prognostic marker when it is based on estimated treatment effects in a randomized trial.

Methods:

We organized our discussion around a different theme for each topic.

Results:

“Fundamentally an extrapolation” refers to the non-statistical considerations and assumptions needed when using surrogate endpoints to evaluate a new treatment. “Decision analysis to the rescue” refers to use the use of decision analysis to evaluate an additional prognostic marker because it is not possible to choose between purely statistical measures of marker performance. “The appeal of simplicity” refers to a straightforward and efficient use of a single randomized trial to evaluate overall treatment effect and treatment effect within subgroups using predictive markers.

Conclusion:

The simple themes provide a general guideline for evaluation of surrogate endpoints, prognostic markers, and predictive markers.
Drug models of schizophrenia
Authors: Steeds Hannah , Carhart-Harris Robin L. , Stone James M.
Published: November 2014

Schizophrenia is a complex mental health disorder with positive, negative and cognitive symptom domains. Approximately one third of patients are resistant to currently available medication. New therapeutic targets and a better understanding of the basic biological processes that drive pathogenesis are needed in order to develop therapies that will improve quality of life for these patients. Several drugs that act on neurotransmitter systems in the brain have been suggested to model aspects of schizophrenia in animals and in man. In this paper, we selectively review findings from dopaminergic, glutamatergic, serotonergic, cannabinoid, GABA, cholinergic and kappa opioid pharmacological drug models to evaluate their similarity to schizophrenia. Understanding the interactions between these different neurotransmitter systems and their relationship with symptoms will be an important step towards building a coherent hypothesis for the pathogenesis of schizophrenia.
Aging Men’s Health-Related Behaviors
Authors: Peak Terry , Gast Julie A.
Published: November 2014

This conceptual review summarizes the current research on older men and their health-related behaviors with special attention given to the influence of the hegemonic masculinity framework over the life span. The authors consider whether masculinity precepts can be modified to enable men to alter their gendered morbidity/mortality factors and achieve healthier and longer lives. Also included is an overview of the gender-based research and health education efforts to persuade men to adopt more effective health-related behaviors or health practices earlier in the life span. Given the current attention being paid to men’s health, for example, their higher risk of morbidity and mortality both generally and at younger ages, and the associated health care costs tied to those risks, the ethical and economic implications of this review may prove useful.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–9Li–3Al–xGd alloys
Authors: Zhang B. , Peng X. D. , Ma Y. , Li Y. M. , Yu Y. Q. , Wei G. B.
Published: November 2014

The influence of gadolinium on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–9Li–3Al alloy was investigated. Results show that the addition of Gd can effectively refine the α-Mg phase and change the morphology of the α-Mg phase. Meanwhile, the Al3Gd phase is mainly distributed at the boundaries of the α-Mg phase and inside the α-Mg phase. The mechanical property tests reveal that the addition of Gd can effectively improve the mechanical properties of the as cast alloys. When the content of Gd is 2·0, the tensile strength and yield stress (engineering stress) reach max values of 188 and 174 MPa respectively. When the content of Gd addition is 2·5, the elongation of the alloy is 15·7.
Efficient p-type dye-sensitized solar cells with all-nano-electrodes: NiCo2S4 mesoporous nanosheet counter electrodes directly converted from NiCo2O4 photocathodes
Authors: Shi Zhiwei , Lu Hao , Liu Qiong , Cao Fengren , Guo Jun , Deng Kaimo , Li Liang
Published: November 2014

We report the successful growth of NiCo2S4 nanosheet films converted from NiCo2O4 nanosheet films on fluorine-doped tin oxide substrates by a low-temperature solution process. Low-cost NiCo2S4 and NiCo2O4 nanosheet films were directly used for replacing conventional Pt and NiO as counter electrodes and photocathodes, respectively, to construct all-nano p-type dye-sensitized solar cells (p-DSSCs) with high performance. Compared to Pt, NiCo2S4 showed higher catalytic activity towards the I-/I3
- redox in electrolyte, resulting in an improved photocurrent density up to 2.989 mA/cm2, which is the highest value in reported p-DSSCs. Present p-DSSCs demonstrated a cell efficiency of 0.248 % that is also comparable with typical NiO-based p-DSSCs.
A new leader-based multicast scheme with a Raptor code in IEEE 802.11 multi-rate WLANs
Authors: Kim Dongwan , Boudriga Noureddine , An Sunshin
Published: November 2014

Multimedia streaming using a multicast scheme over IEEE 802.11 multi-rate wireless local area networks (WLANs) faces many challenges owing to the heterogeneous channel conditions of receivers. Although many multicast schemes have been proposed to support multimedia streaming over multi-rate WLANs, those schemes do not deal with multicast transmission efficiently. In this paper, a new leader-based multicast scheme with a Raptor code is proposed. The proposed scheme consists of a leader selection block, a scalable video coding (SVC) block with unequal error protection (UEP), and a link adaptation block with a Raptor code. In the proposed scheme, one of the multicast group members is selected as a multicast group leader according to a leader cost, and then link adaptation operates between the multicast transmitter and the multicast group leader. In addition, SVC, UEP, and Raptor code mechanisms are applied to guarantee the minimum required performance of multicast group members. The proposed scheme aims to enhance the link utilization and guarantees the minimum quality-of-service requirement of multicast group members. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme performs better than previous multicast schemes.
Effects of follicular versus luteal phase-based strength training in young women
Authors: Sung Eunsook , Han Ahreum , Hinrichs Timo , Vorgerd Matthias , Manchado Carmen , Platen Petra
Published: November 2014

Hormonal variations during the menstrual cycle (MC) may influence trainability of strength. We investigated the effects of a follicular phase-based strength training (FT) on muscle strength, muscle volume and microscopic parameters, comparing it to a luteal phase-based training (LT).

Eumenorrheic women without oral contraception (OC) (N = 20, age: 25.9 ± 4.5 yr, height: 164.2 ± 5.5 cm, weight: 60.6 ± 7.8 kg) completed strength training on a leg press for three MC, and 9 of them participated in muscle biopsies. One leg had eight training sessions in the follicular phases (FP) and only two sessions in the luteal phases (LP) for follicular phase-based training (FT), while the other leg had eight training sessions in LP and only two sessions in FP for luteal phase-based training (LT). Estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), total testosterone (T), free testosterone (free T) and DHEA-s were analysed once during FP (around day 11) and once during LP (around day 25). Maximum isometric force (Fmax), muscle diameter (Mdm), muscle fibre composition (No), fibre diameter (Fdm) and cell nuclei-to-fibre ratio (N/F) were analysed before and after the training intervention.

T and free T were higher in FP compared to LP prior to the training intervention (P < 0.05). The increase in Fmax after FT was higher compared to LT (P <0.05). FT also showed a higher increase in Mdm than LT (P < 0.05). Moreover, we found significant increases in Fdm of fibre type ΙΙ and in N/F only after FT; however, there was no significant difference from LT. With regard to change in fibre composition, no differences were observed between FT and LT. FT showed a higher gain in muscle strength and muscle diameter than LT.

As a result, we recommend that eumenorrheic females without OC should base the periodization of their strength training on their individual MC.
In vivo bioluminescence imaging for viable human neural stem cells incorporated within in situ gelatin hydrogels
Authors: Hwang Do Won , Park Kyung Min , Shim Hye-kyung , Jin Yeona , Oh Hyun Jeong , Oh So Won , Lee Song , Youn Hyewon , Joung Yoon Ki , Lee Hong J , Kim Seung U , Park Ki Dong , Lee Dong Soo
Published: November 2014

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) hydrogel-based stem cell therapies contribute to enhanced therapeutic efficacy in treating diseases, and determining the optimal mechanical strength of the hydrogel in vivo is important for therapeutic success. We evaluated the proliferation of human neural stem cells incorporated within in situ-forming hydrogels and compared the effect of hydrogels with different elastic properties in cell/hydrogel-xenografted mice.

Methods

The gelatin-polyethylene glycol-tyramine (GPT) hydrogel was fabricated through enzyme-mediated cross-linking reaction using horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).

Results

The F3-effluc encapsulated within a soft 1,800 pascal (Pa) hydrogel and stiff 5,800 Pa hydrogel proliferated vigorously in a 24-well plate until day 8. In vitro and in vivo kinetics of luciferase activity showed a slow time-to-peak after d-luciferin administration in the stiff hydrogel. When in vivo proliferation of F3-effluc was observed up to day 21 in both the hydrogel group and cell-only group, F3-effluc within the soft hydrogel proliferated more vigorously, compared to the cells within the stiff hydrogel. Ki-67-specific immunostaining revealed highly proliferative F3-effluc with compactly distributed cell population inside the 1,800 Pa or 5,800 Pa hydrogel.

Conclusions

We examined the in vivo effectiveness of different elastic types of hydrogels encapsulating viable neural stem cells by successfully monitoring the proliferation of implanted stem cells incorporated within a 3D hydrogel scaffold.
A Budget Impact Analysis of the Introduction of Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agent Subsequent Entry Biologics for the Treatment of Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease in Canada
Authors: Tsao Nicole W , Lo Clifford , Leung Marianna , Marin Judith G , Martinusen Dan
Published: November 2014

Background:

In Europe, epoetin subsequent entry biologics (SEBs) have been in use since 2007. Canadian patents of erythropoietin stimulating agents are expiring in 2014, therefore it is predicted that epoetin SEBs will penetrate the Canadian market in the near future.

Objective:

To estimate the economic impact and costs offsets associated with the uptake and use of one or more epoetin SEBs in Canada for the treatment of anemia in chronic kidney disease.

Design:

A Canada-wide epidemiological-based budget impact analysis was conducted to estimate cost outcomes under two scenarios: with and without the availability of epoetin SEB.

Setting:

The analysis was conducted from the perspective of the Canadian healthcare payer, over a 5-year time horizon from 2015 to 2019.

Patients:

Patients included in the model were those with chronic kidney disease stages 3 to 5, who have renal anemia and require treatment with erythropoietin stimulating agents.

Methods:

Only direct medical costs pertaining to drug acquisition of currently available erythropoietin stimulating agents in Canada were incorporated in the model. Cost of epoetin SEBs, market shares, uptake rates, and other model inputs were estimated from published sources or databases. No discounting of future costs was applied.

Results:

Based on our analysis, under market phenomena similar to those seen in the Europe and without considering potential switching from originator epoetin to epoetin SEB, we could expect that Canadian adoption of epoetin SEBs could result in $35 million (2013 CAD, year 1) to $50 million (year 5) cost savings annually, with cumulative savings of $221 million after 5 years. In one-way sensitivity analyses, model variables with substantial impact on cost savings were the prevalence of chronic kidney disease and epoetin SEB uptake rates.

Limitations:

We did not take into account costs associated with overhead, administration, or adverse events.

Conclusion:

The advent of SEBs represents an opportunity to relieve financial pressure in our healthcare system. Under the assumption that the efficacy and safety of epoetin SEBs are non-inferior to originator products, we have shown that the adoption of epoetin SEBs can lead to cost savings for the Canadian payer.
Spectral induced polarization of clay-sand mixtures: Experiments and modeling
Authors: Okay Gonca , Leroy Phillipe , Ghorbani Ahmad , Cosenza Phillipe , Camerlynck Christian , Cabrera Justo , Florsch Nicolas , Revil André
Published: November 2014

Spectral induced polarization or complex conductivity is a promising electric method in hydrogeophysics because of its sensitivity to water saturation, permeability, and particle size distribution (PSD). However, the physical and chemical mechanisms that generate the low-frequency complex conductivity of clays are still debated. To explain these mechanisms, the complex conductivity of kaolinite, smectite, and clay-sand mixtures was measured in the frequency range 1.4 mHz–12 kHz with various clay contents (100%, 20%, 5%, and 1% in volume of the clay-sand mixture) and salinities (distilled water, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] of NaCl in solution). The results indicated the strong impact of the cation exchange capacity of smectite upon the complex conductivity of the material. The quadrature conductivity increased steadily with the clay content and was fairly independent of the pore fluid salinity. A mechanistic induced polarization model was also developed. It combined a Donnan equilibrium model of the surface electrochemical properties of clays and sand, a conduction model of the Stern and diffuse layers, a polarization model of the Stern layer, and a macroscopic conductivity model based on the differential effective medium theory. It also included the effect of the PSD. Our complex conductivity model predicted very well the experimental data, except for very low frequencies ([Formula: see text]) at which membrane polarization may dominate the observed response.
Picking versus stacking in a modern microearthquake location: Comparison of results from a surface passive seismic monitoring array in Oklahoma
Authors: Pesicek Jeremy D. , Child Duncan , Artman Brad , Cieślik Konrad
Published: November 2014

We present location results for a group of [Formula: see text] microearthquakes that occurred in 2012 in a region of Oklahoma hosting ongoing exploration activities. Using a local passive surface seismic monitoring network of 15 broadband stations, we applied two modern location techniques that use fundamentally different approaches. The first is a pick-based double-difference relocation method with waveform crosscorrelation. Multiple-event location techniques such as these are generally regarded as the best approach for obtaining high-precision locations from pick data. The second approach is an automated waveform migration stacking method. These types of methods are becoming increasingly common due to increasing network station density and computer power. The results from the two methods show excellent agreement and provide similar results for the interpreter. Both methods reveal spatial and temporal patterns in the locations that are not visible in results obtained using a more traditional pick-based approach. We performed two statistical uncertainty tests to assess the effects of data quality and quantity on the two methods. We show that the uncertainties for both methods are comparable, but that the stack-based locations are less sensitive to station geometry, likely due to the different treatment of outliers and the beneficial inclusion of noisier data. Finally, we discuss the favorable conditions in which to apply each method and argue that for small aperture surface arrays where accurate velocity information exists, such as in this study, the stack-based method is preferable due to the higher degree of automation. Under these conditions, stack-based methods better allow for rapid and precise determination of microearthquake locations, facilitating improved interpretations of seismogenic processes.
Cognitive Outcome After Pediatric Stem-Cell Transplantation: Impact of Age and Total-Body Irradiation
Authors: Willard Victoria W. , Leung Wing , Huang Qinlei , Zhang Hui , Phipps Sean
Published: November 2014

Purpose

To examine the influence of age and conditioning with total-body irradiation (TBI) on the trajectory of cognitive functioning after treatment with pediatric hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (SCT).

Patients and Methods

Pediatric patients who were scheduled to undergo a SCT were eligible for the study, with 315 patients completing a baseline assessment. Of these, 183 patients (58.1%) were alive at 1 year after SCT and completed additional assessments at 1, 3, and 5 years after SCT. Half of the long-term sample (52.1%) received TBI during conditioning. Cognitive functioning was assessed via age-appropriate standardized measures.

Results

At baseline, there were no differences in intelligence quotient (IQ) based on age. At 5 years after SCT, the youngest patients (< 3 years old at baseline) who received TBI demonstrated a significantly lower IQ than those who did not receive TBI (P = .05). Longitudinal analyses (piecewise linear mixed-effects models with a knot at 1 year after SCT) revealed a significant impact of age and TBI over time. The youngest patients evidenced declines in cognitive functioning during the first year; however, patients who did not receive TBI largely recovered their functioning in subsequent years. In contrast, young patients who received TBI failed to recover the losses experienced during the first year after SCT, demonstrating stability in their functioning, but at a lower level.

Conclusion

Our findings clarify the relationship between TBI and age on cognitive outcomes in pediatric SCT survivors. Young patients who receive TBI may benefit from early intervention efforts to minimize cognitive losses during the first year after SCT and to maximize potential recovery.
C-Type Natriuretic Peptide Plasma Levels Are Elevated in Subjects With Achondroplasia, Hypochondroplasia, and Thanatophoric Dysplasia
Authors: Olney Robert C. , Prickett Timothy C. R. , Espiner Eric A. , Mackenzie William G. , Duker Angela L. , Ditro Colleen , Zabel Bernhard , Hasegawa Tomonobu , Kitoh Hiroshi , Aylsworth Arthur S. , Bober Michael B.
Published: November 2014

Context:

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is a crucial regulator of endochondral bone growth. In a previous report of a child with acromesomelic dysplasia, Maroteaux type (AMDM), caused by loss-of-function of the CNP receptor (natriuretic peptide receptor-B [NPR-B]), plasma levels of CNP were elevated. In vitro studies have shown that activation of the MAPK kinase (MEK)/ERK MAPK pathway causes functional inhibition of NPR-B. Achondroplasia, hypochondroplasia, and thanatophoric dysplasia are syndromes of short-limbed dwarfism caused by activating mutations of fibroblast growth factor receptor-3, which result in overactivation of the MEK/ERK MAPK pathway.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine whether these syndromes exhibit evidence of CNP resistance as reflected by increases in plasma CNP and its amino-terminal propeptide (NTproCNP).

Design:

This was a prospective, observational study.

Subjects:

Participants were 63 children and 20 adults with achondroplasia, 6 children with hypochondroplasia, 2 children with thanatophoric dysplasia, and 4 children and 1 adult with AMDM.

Results:

Plasma levels of CNP and NTproCNP were higher in children with achondroplasia with CNP SD scores (SDSs) of 1.0 (0.3–1.4) (median [interquartile range]) and NTproCNP SDSs of 1.4 (0.4–1.8; P < .0005). NTproCNP levels correlated with height velocity. Levels were also elevated in adults with achondroplasia (CNP SDSs of 1.5 [0.7–2.1] and NTproCNP SDSs of 0.5 [0.1–1.0], P < .005). In children with hypochondroplasia, CNP SDSs were 1.3 (0.7–1.5) (P = .08) and NTproCNP SDSs were 1.9 (1.8–2.3) (P < .05). In children with AMDM, CNP SDSs were 1.6 (1.4–3.3) and NTproCNP SDSs were 4.2 (2.7–6.2) (P < .01).

Conclusions:

In these skeletal dysplasias, elevated plasma levels of proCNP products suggest the presence of tissue resistance to CNP.
Airline-Driven Performance-Based Air Traffic Management: Game Theoretic Models and Multicriteria Evaluation
Authors: Evans Antony , Vaze Vikrant , Barnhart Cynthia
Published: November 2014

Defining air traffic management as the tools, procedures, and systems employed to ensure safe and efficient operation of air transportation systems, an important objective of future air traffic management systems is to support airline business objectives, subject to ensuring safety and security. Under the current model for designing air traffic management initiatives, the central authority overseeing and regulating air traffic management in a region makes trade-offs between specified performance criteria. The research presented in this paper aims instead to allow the airline community to set performance goals and thus make trade-offs between different performance criteria directly, before specific air traffic management strategies are determined. We propose several approaches for collecting inputs from airlines in a systematic way and for combining these airline inputs into implementable air traffic management initiatives. These include variants of averaging, voting, and ranking mechanisms. We also propose multiple criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of each approach, including Pareto optimality, airline profitability, system optimality, equity, and truthfulness of airline inputs. We apply a game-theoretic approach to examine the potential for strategic (gaming) behavior by airlines. We offer a broad evaluation of each approach, first by providing some theoretical insights, and then by simulating each of the approaches for a generic system using Monte Carlo methods, sampling values for input parameters from a wide range. We also provide an indication of how the approaches might perform in a real system by simulating ground delay programs at two airports in the New York City area. We first apply a simplified model that simulates the process of selecting only planned end times of a ground delay program, using Monte Carlo methods. Next, we apply a more detailed model that simulates the process of selecting planned end times and reduced airport arrival rates. Finally, we characterize the effectiveness of each of the considered approaches on the proposed criteria and identify the most desirable approaches. We conclude that voting schemes, which score highly on all criteria (including airline profitability, system optimality, and equity), represent the most promising approaches (among those considered) to elicit airline preferences, thereby allowing the central authority to design air traffic management initiatives that optimize system performance while respecting the objectives of airlines.
The Lung-Restricted Marker Napsin A Is Highly Expressed in Clear Cell Carcinomas of the Ovary
Authors: Kandalaft Patricia L. , Gown Allen M. , Isacson Christina
Published: November 2014

Objectives:

We recently observed expression of the “lung” marker napsin A in ovarian clear cell carcinomas and therefore sought to determine the extent of napsin A expression in a subset of ovarian neoplasms.

Methods:

We identified an archival series of ovarian clear cell carcinomas (n = 36), serous borderline tumors (n = 21), high-grade serous carcinomas (n = 37), and endometrioid adenocarcinomas (n = 29). Using standard immunohistochemical techniques on whole sections of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens, we employed a panel of antibodies: napsin A (IP64), estrogen receptor (SP1), WT-1 (6F-H2), PAX-8 (BC12), and TTF-1 (SPT24).

Results:

Thirty-six of 36 clear cell carcinomas showed napsin A expression, typically in a uniform pattern. None of the serous borderline tumors or high-grade serous carcinomas manifested napsin A expression. Napsin A was expressed in three (10%) of 29 endometrioid adenocarcinomas, generally in a focal pattern.

Conclusions:

Our study showed that napsin A is an extremely sensitive (100%) marker of ovarian clear cell carcinomas and exhibits very high specificity (100%) in distinguishing clear cell carcinomas from high-grade serous carcinomas and serous borderline tumors and 90% specificity in discriminating clear cell carcinomas from endometrioid carcinomas.
Diverse Clinicopathologic Features in Human Herpesvirus 8–Associated Lymphomas Lead to Diagnostic Problems
Authors: Courville Elizabeth L. , Sohani Aliyah R. , Hasserjian Robert P. , Zukerberg Lawrence R. , Harris Nancy L. , Ferry Judith A.
Published: November 2014

Objectives:

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8)–associated lymphomas are uncommon, mainly affect men infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and usually have a poor prognosis. We sought to characterize the HHV8+ lymphomas seen at our institution since the mid-1990s.

Methods:

We identified 15 patients with HHV8-associated lymphomas and evaluated their clinical and pathologic features.

Results:

Diagnoses included primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) (n = 2), extracavitary PEL (n = 8), intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (n = 1), HHV8+ plasmablastic microlymphoma (n = 3), and germinotropic lymphoproliferative disorder (GLD) (n = 1). The case of GLD progressed to a high-grade HHV8+ Epstein-Barr virus–positive lymphoma, an evolution that has not been previously reported. Four patients were HIV−(three from an HHV8-endemic area). Potentially misleading pathologic features in our series of extracavitary PEL included classic Hodgkin lymphoma–like features, lymph node sinus involvement, and T-cell antigen expression.

Conclusions:

HHV8-associated lymphomas can be clinically and pathologically heterogeneous, with features that may lead to misdiagnosis as other types of lymphoma.