bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia in Patients with AIDS and Other Conditions: Experience in a Philadelphia University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Furio Melissa M. , Weidle Paul J. , Wordell Cindy J. , Liu Hans H.
Published: December 2015

We reviewed the records of 49 patients who had 55 episodes of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) from January 1984 to January 1987. Thirty‐three patients had acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), with the risk groups being homosexual/bisexual practices (26), hemophilia (6), and blood transfusion (1). Fourteen patients had a history of malignancy or chemotherapy and two underwent organ transplantation. Overall response to therapy of PCP was 75% (77% of patients with AIDS, 68% of those with other conditions). All six relapses occurred in patients with AIDS. Both trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (TMP‐SMX) and pentamidine were associated with a higher rate of toxicity in those patients than in patients with other conditions. A 30% rate of failure due to side effects occurred when TMP‐SMX was used as initial therapy, but the combination is considered effective and should be given an adequate therapeutic trial. Pentamidine was an effective alternative for patients who failed with TMP‐SMX and for those who failed therapy due to side effects, but was associated with serious toxicities. Our experience was similar in some respects to previous published results from New York and California.
Competition of the Histamine H2 Antagonist Cimetidine for Androgen Binding Sites in Man
Authors: WINTERS STEPHEN J. , LEE JUDY , TROEN PHILIP
Published: December 2015

Gynecomastia and impotence have been described as side‐effects of cimetidine therapy. It has previously been shown that cimetidine possesses antiandrogenic properties and competes for dihydrotestosterone (DHT) binding to the cytosol and nuclear fractions of the rat prostate. Because this interaction may be relevant to the clinical findings in man, the authors analyzed the effects of cimetidine on androgen binding to the human prostate, testis, and serum. Cimetidine competed for DHT binding sites in the human prostate with a displacement curve parallel to that of nonlabeled DHT, whereas no binding to the testis or serum was apparent. Neither histamine nor the H1 antagonist diphenhydramine was capable of inhibiting androgen binding to the human prostate. Thus, androgen antagonism may be the mechanism of the endocrine side‐effects of cimetidine in man.
Serum and Seminal Fluid Immunoglobulins in Relation to Testicular Morphology
Authors: FRIBERG JAN
Published: December 2015

The presence of different titers and types of sperm‐agglutinating antibodies In serum and seminal fluid as well as the immunoglobulin content of the fluid were evaluated in 93 men with azoospermia or, occasionally, cryptozoospermia to detect whether, at any stage of deranged spermatogenesis observed In a testicular biopsy, a leakage of antibodies or Immunoglobulins to the seminal fluid could be demonstrated. Tail‐to‐tail sperm‐agglutinating antibodies were noted In serum from 48% of the men with complete spermatogenesis with only low titers in seminal fluid. No such antibodies were seen In sera from men with different degrees of disturbed spermatogenesis. One man with a Sertoli‐cell‐only syndrome and one man with a developmental arrest at the spermatid stage had low titers of head‐to‐head sperm‐agglutinating antibodies in serum, but no such antibodies were seen In the seminal fluid. In none of the men with either normal or deranged spermatogenesis could an increased antibody or Immunoglobulin concentration be demonstrated in the seminal fluid.
Occurrence of DOPA/5‐HTP Decarboxylase in Human Seminal Plasma: Kinetic Parameters and Demonstration of a Naturally Occurring Inhibitor of the Enzyme
Authors: ROBERGE ANDRÉE C. , BOUCHARD SYLVIE , LAVOIE JOCELYNE , TREMBLAY ROLAND R. , MAILHOT JEAN
Published: December 2015

The authors found that DOPA/5‐HTP decarboxylase was present in the human seminal plasma and that its activity was lower in fertile men than in infertile men. The Km and Vmax of the enzyme were, respectively, 0.88 × 10−6 M and 19.8 pmol of serotonin/mg of protein/min. The enzyme was pyrldoxal‐5′‐phosphate (PLPHndependent, and the content of PLP in the seminal plasma was lower In fertile than in infertile subjects. A soluble, heat stable, diffusible inhibitor of DOPA/5‐HTP decarboxylase was detected in seminal plasma. This naturally occurring inhibitor was capable of reducing the activity of decarboxylase in the human seminal plasma and in cat liver. Zinc inhibited DOPA/5‐HTP decarboxylase in both human seminal plasma and cat liver, suggesting the involvement of zinc, in close relationship with PLP, in the decarboxylation mechanism. These findings suggest a relationship between the synthesis of biogenic amines and testicular function in infertile men.
Prolactin Stimulation of Testicular Steroid Biosynthesis in the Male Rat
Authors: BÉLANGER ALAIN , AUCLAIR CLAUDE , SÉGUIN CARL , CARON SIMON , LABRIE FERNAND
Published: December 2015

The effect of prolactin on testicular steroidogenesis was studied in intact adult male rats and in animals treated for 12 days with the LHRH‐agonist [D‐Ala6, des‐Gly‐NH210]LHRH ethylamide (LHRH‐agonist, 1 μg every third day). Testicular LH and prolactin receptors are decreased to 20 and 50% of control, respectively, 26 hours after the last injection of LHRH‐agonist. This loss of testicular receptors is accompanied by an increase in the concentration of testicular pregnenolone (500%) and progesterone (700%), whereas 17‐OH‐progesterone, androstenedione, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone are decreased to 50, 25, 10, and 60% of control levels, respectively. The Injection of 2 mg of ovine prolactin in intact rats 2 hours before sacrifice leads to an increase in testicular 17‐OH‐progesterone (300%) and androgen (100%) levels. However, in animals treated with the LHRH‐agonist, prolactin injection leads to an increase in only progesterone and pregnenolone levels, whereas the concentration of the other steroids remains low. The present data indicate that the stimulatory effect of prolactin at an early stage(s) of the testicular steroidogenic pathway remains relatively intact In the desensitized testis and leads to an apparent accentuation of the LHRH‐agonist‐lnduced enzymatic blockage at the level of 17‐hydroxylase and 17, 20‐desmolase activities.
Vasocystostomy in the Rabbit: Surgical Technique and Sperm Outflow
Authors: HOOKER RUSSELL H.
Published: December 2015

The surgical technique employed for construction of bilateral vas‐to‐bladder fistulae (vasocystostomy) in the male rabbit Is described. The method of collection and results of examination of sperm from 15 of these animals are presented. The average daily number of intact sperm (185 $4 106) passed in the urine of vasocystostomized rabbits was consistent with previous estimates of sperm production and slightly exceeded previous measurements of sperm output in ejaculated semen.
Effects of Photoperiod and Subcutaneous Melatonin Implants on the Reproductive Status of Adult White‐footed Mice (Peromyscus leucopus)
Authors: PETTERBORG LARRY J. , REITER RUSSEL J.
Published: December 2015

The reproductive consequences of photoperiod and melatonin administration were compared in adult white‐footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus). Animals were exposed either to a long photoperlod (16 hours of light:8 hours of dark) with and without subcutaneous melatonin—beeswax implants or to a short photoperiod (8 hours of light:16 hours of dark) for six weeks. Following treatment with either a short photoperiod or melatonin, testicular weights and volumes as well as plasma testosterone levels were significantly (P < 0.01) reduced relative to animals maintained under long daily photoperiods without melatonln Implants. Under the conditions of the present study, chronic melatonin administration is as repressive to the reproductive status as is a short photoperlod in adult white‐footed mice.
In Vitro Gonadotropin Stimulation of Bovine Sertoli Cell Ornithine Decarboxylase Activity
Authors: FRANCIS GARY L. , TRICHE TIMOTHY J. , BROWN TERI J. , BROWN HARI C. , BERCU BARRY B.
Published: December 2015

The activity of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) was determined in primary cultures of bovine Sertoli cells after gonadotropin stimulation in vitro. A significant increase in both ODC activity and putrescine content was noted 4 hours after FSH stimulation of cells derived from animals 7 to 14 days of age. Response in cells derived from animals 2 months of age was significantly less. Additionally, it was noted that both LH and hCG stimulated the ODC activity in bovine Sertoli cell preparations. These findings suggest that ODC activity In bovine Sertoli cells may be under FSH control and that LH or hCG may have significant FSH‐like effects in this system. Also, It is suggested that ODC responsiveness decreases during bovine Sertoli cell maturation.
The Effect of ATP Depletion upon the Acrosome Reaction in Guinea Pig Sperm
Authors: SANTOSSACCHI J. , GORDON MILDRED
Published: December 2015

The suspension of guinea pig spermatozoa in substrate‐free medium results in the cessation of sperm motility and a 94% reduction in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels within minutes. ATP depletion was not deleterious to spermatozoa since motility was fully restored by the addition of pyruvate. In addition, sperm were able to synthesize ATP by metabolizing pyruvate. Following incubation for 0, 30, and 60 minutes in medium without substrate, acrosome reactions were measured before and after motility restoration. ATP depletion induced a large percentage of acrosome reactions relative to controls (32.29 ± 1.22% compared with 0.63 ± 0.02% at 60 minutes). Ca2+ was required for the effect. It is suggested that ATP depletion inactivates a Ca2+ ‐dependent ATPase expulsion mechanism for Ca2+, thereby permitting Ca2+ influx and the acrosome reaction.
Ca2+ Is Required for Mouse Sperm Capacitation and Fertilization In Vitro
Authors: FRASER LYNN R.
Published: December 2015

The temporal involvement of Ca2+ during mouse sperm capacitation in vitro was examined by releasing sperm into Ca2+‐free medium and then introducing Ca2+ (1.80 mM, final concentration) at 30 minute intervals during a total preincubation of 120 minutes. Sperm were then assessed for acrosome loss, whiplash motility, and fertilizing ability, and were compared with samples preincubated for 120 minutes in the presence of Ca2+ No significant differences were detected when Ca2+ was present for 60, 90, or 120 minutes, but significant differences in all parameters were observed when Ca2+ was introduced for either the final 30 or 5 minutes. When suspensions were preincubated in Ca2+‐containing medium for 25 minutes and 15 μM ionophore A23187 was added for 5 min, sperm were morphologically and functionally similar to those preincubated for 120 minutes in Ca2+‐containing medium. From these results, it is concluded that mouse sperm require extracellular Ca2+ for at least part of capacitation, as well as for the acrosome reaction and whiplash motility needed to successfully fertilize eggs, and that a critical intracellular concentration of Ca2+ may be responsible for triggering these responses.
Influence of Estradiol on Accessory Reproductive Organs in the Castrated Male Rat Effects of Bromocriptine and Flutamide
Authors: BELIS JOHN A. , ADLESTEIN LEE B. , TARRY WILLIAM F.
Published: December 2015

Estradiol partially maintained the weights of the dorsolateral prostate and seminal vesicles in castrated adult male rats. One group of animals received subcutaneous injections of estradiol (0.01 mg/kg) daily, while a second group of animals received estradiol plus bromocriptine (4.0 mg/kg). Changes in weights of accessory reproductive organs were correlated with serum prolactin levels. Estradiol significantly increased serum prolactin levels while concomitant treatment with bromocriptine caused serum prolactin to remain at castrate levels. Bromocriptine slightly decreased, but did not abolish, the effect of estradiol on weights of the dorsolateral prostate and seminal vesicles.

To determine if the effect of estradiol was mediated by androgen receptors in the dorsolateral prostate and seminal vesicles, a third group of animals was treated with flutamide. Flutamide, at a dosage (20 mg/kg) that abolished the effects of dihydrotestosterone on the weights of these tissues, produced no alternation of the effects of estradiol. Treatment of animals with a combination of flutamide, bromocriptine, and estradiol did not significantly alter organ weights from the results obtained with bromocriptine and estradiol.

Scatchard plot analysis of the effect of estradiol treatment on cytosol binding of estradiol demonstrated increased quantities of estradiol binding in dorsolateral prostate and seminal vesicles which correlated with the changes in weights noted. Although part of the effect of estradiol on regression of male accessory reproductive organs of castrated rats may be mediated by prolactin, the principal effect appears to be a direct action on responsive tissues.
Effects of Gossypol on Rat Sertoli and Leydig Cells in Primary Culture and Established Cell Lines
Authors: ZHUANG L.‐Z. , PHILLIPS D. M. , GUNSALUS G. L. , BARDIN C. W. , MATHER J. P.
Published: December 2015

In order to evaluate the direct effect of gossypol on testicular cells, we used primary cultures of rat Leydig and Sertoli cells. No alteration in Leydig cell survival, morphology, or testosterone production was seen during three days of culture with up to 3 μg/ml gossypol. With higher concentrations (3 to 7 (μ/ml) of gossypol, there was a reduction in cell survival but no change in androgen secretion. In contrast, there was a marked change in Sertoli cell morphology after five days of gossypol treatment. Large vacuoles and electron dense granules appeared in the cytoplasm, but these effects were reversed within six days of removing gossypol from the medium. There was a significant decrease in androgen binding protein (ABP) secretion by Sertoli cells in the presence of gossypol. We also tested the effect of gossypol on the growth of three established cell lines. Two Sertoli‐derived cell lines, TM4 and TR‐ST, were more sensitive than a Leydig‐derived cell line (TM3). These results suggest that, of the somatic cell types in the testis, the Sertoli cells are most sensitive to gossypol.
Morphometric Analyses of the Epididymis from Normal and Vasectomized Rats
Authors: MILLER ROMAN J. , KILLIAN GARY J.
Published: December 2015

To provide a structural basis for region‐specific biochemical activities of rat epididymal cells and to assess the morphometric effects of vasectomy, tissue and cellular morphologic parameters for each of six histologically defined regions from the epididymis of long‐term sham‐operated and vasectomized rats were analyzed stereologically. In sham‐operated rats, tubule diameter generally increased from region 1 to region 6 (163 μm to 338 μm) while tubular wall height decreased (35 μm to 17.5 μm) as did tubular wall volume density (0.48 to 0.12). For columnar epithelial cells, the absolute cell number/region ranged from 16.5 to 5.1 × 106 such that region 2 > region 1 > region 5 > region 4 > region 6 > region 3. Based on cell volume, the largest columnar epithelial cells were found in region 3 (2607 ± 127 μm3). The epididymal tubule wall was made up of 91% columnar epithelial cells, 5% lymphocytes, and 4% basal cells. The relatively small tubular lumen, large wall volume, and large columnar epithelial cell number in the caput (regions 1 to 3) provide the structural basis for maximizing biochemical interactions between columnar epithelial cells and spermatozoa. In contrast, the distal cauda (region 6), with its large lumen and small tubular wall volume, is structurally optimized for the function of storage, which requires minimal columnar epithelial cell interaction with spermatozoa. In vasectomized rats, mean tissue volumes for most epididymal regions were significantly greater than in sham rats. The absolute number of lymphocytes in vasectomized rats significantly increased in several regions, thus implicating them in post‐vasectomy events.
Impairment of Spermatogenesis in Transgenic Mice With Selective Overexpression of Bcl‐2 in the Somatic Cells of the Testis
Authors: YAMAMOTO CINDY M. , HIKIM AMIYA P. SINHA , LUE YANHE , PORTUGAL ADA MAE , GUO TAYLOR B. , HSU SHEAU Y. , SALAMEH WAEL A. , WANG CHRISTINA , HSUEH AARON J.W. , SWERDLOFF RONALD S.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: To explore the functional role of Bcl‐2 in germ cell development, transgenic mice carrying 6 kilobases of the inhibin‐α promoter were generated to express human bcl‐2 gene product in the gonads. Although female transgenic mice demonstrated decreased follicle apoptosis, enhanced folliculogenesis, and increased germ cell tumorigenesis, the adult males exhibited variable impairment of spermatogenesis. The degree of damage ranged from tubules with intraepithelial vacuoles of varying sizes to near atrophied tubules consisting of Sertoli cells and a few spermatogonia. Although there was no significant change in body weight, an approximately 34% decrease in testicular weights was noted in transgenic animals compared with wild‐type mice. Gamete maturation, assessed by determining the percentage of tubules with advanced (steps 13–16) spermatids, was decreased to 44.4% of the values measured in the wild‐type animals. The incidence of germ cell apoptosis increased 3.8‐fold in the transgenic animals and was associated with a marked loss of germ cells. Electron microscopy of the testes further revealed large vacuoles in the Sertoli cell cytoplasm and dilations of the intracellular spaces between adjacent Sertoli cells, spermatid malformations, and increased germ cell apoptosis in the transgenic animals. There was no evidence of Sertoli cell death either by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay or electron microscopy. Leydig cell ultrastructure, cell size and numbers, and plasma levels of testosterone were not different between normal and the transgenic animals. Collectively, these results support the critical role of Bcl‐2 in male germ cell development and are consistent with the gender‐specific role of the Bcl‐2 family members in reproduction.
The Black Church, Values, and Secular Counseling: Implications for Counselor Education and Practice
Authors: Plunkett Darryl P.
Published: December 2015

There has been a recent increase in the amount of attention given in the counseling literature to addressing clients’ religion and spirituality. However, Black American churchgoers are rarely the target population in the discourse, and little is known about how the Black church shapes their views. This article provides information on values of the Black church and the church's influence on Black American churchgoers regarding secular counseling. Implications for counselor education and practice are discussed.
Prescription Writing in Small Groups as a Clinical Pharmacology Educational Intervention: Perceptions of Preclerkship Medical Students
Authors: James Henry , Tayem Yasin I. Y. , Al Khaja K. A. J. , Veeramuthu Sindhan , Sequeira Reginald P.
Published: December 2015

Medical students do not perform well in writing prescriptions, and the 3 variables—learner, teacher, and instructional method—are held responsible to various degrees. The objective of this clinical pharmacology educational intervention was to improve medical students’ perceptions, motivation, and participation in prescription‐writing sessions. The study participants were second‐year medical students of the College of Medicine and Medical Sciences of the Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain. Two prescription‐writing sessions were conducted using clinical case scenarios based on problems the students had studied as part of the problem‐based learning curriculum. At the end of the respiratory system subunit, the training was conducted in small groups, each facilitated by a tutor. At the end of the cardiovascular system subunit, the training was conducted in a traditional large‐group classroom setting. Data were collected with the help of a questionnaire at the end of each session and a focus group discussion. A majority of the students (95.3% ± 2.4%) perceived the small‐group method better for teaching and learning of all aspects of prescription writing: analyzing the clinical case scenario, applying clinical pharmacology knowledge for therapeutic reasoning, using a formulary for searching relevant prescribing information, and in writing a complete prescription. Students also endorsed the small‐group method for better interaction among themselves and with the tutor and for the ease of asking questions and clarifying doubts. In view of the principles of adult learning, where motivation and interaction are important, teaching and learning prescription writing in small groups deserve a serious consideration in medical curricula.
Sparing ultrasound in emergency department patients with suspected deep vein thrombosis by using clinical scores and d‐dimer testing
Authors: Gaitini Diana , Khoury Rasha , Israelit Shlomo , Beck‐Razi Nira
Published: December 2015

Purpose

To evaluate compliance with a management strategy for use in emergency department (ED) patients with suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT) based on Wells score (WS), d‐dimer concentrations, and sonographic (US) examinations.

Methods

Retrospective and prospective data on risk factors, physical examination findings, d‐dimer concentrations, and US results were collected and reviewed. The prevalence of DVT for each WS category and d‐dimer level was calculated.

Results

In the retrospective part of the study, 475 consecutive patients were included. Patients' risk for DVT was scored as high (n = 129 [27.2%]), moderate (n = 95 [20%]), or low (n = 251 [52.8%]). d‐Dimer test results were available for 34 (7.2%) of the patients. DVT was diagnosed in 105 (22.1%) patients: 99 (76.7%) at high, 4 (4.2%) at moderate, and 2 (0.8%) at low risk. The mean d‐dimer concentration was 3,071.7 ng/ml in patients with DVT. In the prospective part of the study, 50 patients were enrolled. Their risk levels for DVT were scored as high (n = 23 [46%]), moderate (n = 7 [14%]), and low (n = 20 [40%]). d‐Dimer testing was performed in all patients. The mean d‐dimer concentration was 2,966.9 ng/ml in patients with DVT. DVT was diagnosed in 13 (26%) of these 50 patients: 12 (52.2%) at high and 1 (14.3%) at moderate risk for DVT. No patients in the low‐risk group and with normal d‐dimer concentrations had DVT.

Conclusions

We identified significant correlation between WS, d‐dimer concentration, and diagnosis of DVT on US examination. DVT can be excluded with certainty in patients admitted to the ED with a low‐risk score for DVT and a negative d‐dimer concentration, thus avoiding the need for performing US examinations. A low level of compliance with this management strategy was found in our ED. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:231–239, 2016
Unusual echocardiographic appearance of a cardiac metastasis from lung carcinoma
Authors: Peluso Diletta , Bianchi Alessandra , Bonanno Laura , Banzato Alberto
Published: December 2015

During hospitalization in the Oncology Department, a woman with nonsmall cell lung cancer and no previous cardiac event complained of episodes of chest pain and palpitations. Preliminary instrumental examinations diagnosed atrial fibrillation in pericarditis. A subsequent complete transthoracic echocardiogram showed the presence of a large mass involving the left ventricular apex, without echo‐contrast enhancement. A thoracic CT with iodized contrast agent revealed its necrotic composition and was concluded as cardiac metastasis. This is an unusual case of a malignant neoplasm showing no contrast enhancement at echocardiogram because of its necrotic composition, mimicking a thrombus. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:392–394, 2016
Federal Health Care Leadership Skills Required in the 21st Century
Authors: Hudak Ronald P. , Russell Rebecca , Fung Mei Lin , Rosenkrans Wayne
Published: December 2015

The purpose of the current study was to identify and describe the skills required of future health care leaders in the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Health and Human Services. The identified skills should also be relevant to leaders of nonfederal agencies or nonmedical disciplines, such as education, human services, and similar public sector‐oriented disciplines, where the leaders are challenged to engage with a multitude of local, state, federal, and not‐for‐profit entities. The study employed a focus group methodology during a 2‐day leadership summit. The participants were 47 senior health care leaders representing various federal agencies and the private sector. During facilitator‐guided sessions, six focus groups consisting of seven or eight randomly selected participants identified 165 skills that are required of leaders. Subsequent to the summit, content analysis was used to group the skills into 12 overarching skill sets. The 12 skill sets were the ability to build partnerships, develop trust, thrive in complex and ambiguous environments, listen actively, think with agility, create conditions for success, assert aspirational future‐based leadership, develop present moment awareness, create an interagency learning network, develop network leadership, develop network goal setting, and maintain resilience. It appeared that only the first six skills were noted in the literature. Further research is recommended to validate the findings including further investigation into the leadership competencies that are most effective at driving health and non health outcomes in communities.
Is It Only Good? The Dark Side of Leadership for Creativity and Innovation
Authors: Holten Ann‐Louise , Bøllingtoft Anne
Published: December 2015

It is assumed that leaders are essential in shaping and facilitating successful innovation and creativity in organizations. Both through direct leadership behaviors (e.g., by vision formulation) and through more indirect leadership behaviors (e.g., by role modeling). While these leadership behaviors seem both positive and productive, they may also hold risks of unintended, adverse results. In the current article, two ways are proposed in which this may occur: through contradictory leadership behaviors and a too‐much‐of‐a‐good‐thing effect. Future research in and awareness of the potential dark sides to leadership for creativity and innovation are warranted.
Ambiguity is the Leader's New Double‐Edged Sword
Authors: Teles Filipe
Published: December 2015

Is deceitful action an acceptable resource in contemporary political arenas? Are weak leaders inevitable? The current article claims that similar questions are a consequence of the pace at which events change, of the plethora of diverse contexts in which leaders act, and of the plurality of followers and of interests. In a context that favors the personalization of politics, ambiguity is the best tool available. It renders the capacity to adapt, to be creative, and innovative.
How Creative Can Leaders Afford to be Without Losing Credibility?
Authors: Swid Amr
Published: December 2015

Leaders know in their gut that creativity and innovation are the life blood of their organization. New ideas can lead to programs that are superior to an organization's established or planned programs. Leadership is to engage the right people, at the right times, to the right degree, in creative work. Inspirational leaders will promote employee creativity. On the other hand, the ability of leaders to be creative is an essential quality of leadership. Done well, the change of course looks like a moment of courage. The leader went to the precipice and had the strength to say, Let's turn back. Done badly, the change of course looks like pure opportunism or lack of conviction, and the leader's leadership credibility is undermined. The line between the two is thin. Which side a leader ends up on depends essentially on how the leader takes into account essential strategic factors, and how hard the leader will work to keep others on their side when they make the move.
Searching for Leadership at the Edge of Potential
Authors: McCaslin Mark L.
Published: December 2015

In consideration of the leadership of human potential, the current article examined the notion of individuals serving in leader roles who hold a potentiating consciousness. It is really a matter of attitude. An attitude that embraces a eudaimonistic philosophy that will lead to the actualization of the very best in ourselves and others. Holding a potentiating consciousness is to live, learn, and lead on purpose.
The relationship between the subtropical Western Pacific SST and haze over North‐Central North China Plain
Authors: Yin Zhicong , Wang Huijun
Published: December 2015

Haze is a serious issue in China today, presenting a substantial pollution problem to the public. To enhance understanding of haze mechanisms in recent years, this study examined the relationship between the subtropical western Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) and the haze pollution over North‐Central North China Plain. The empirical orthogonal function result showed an opposite trend of boreal winter (December–January–February) haze days (WHD) between the south and north of the Huaihe River. The negative sea surface temperature anomaly (SSTA) over the subtropical western Pacific could intensify the WHD over North‐Central North China Plain. As an effective external forcing, the preceding boreal autumn (Sepember–October–November) negative SSTA could weaken the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) circulation, leading to conditions such as a weaker Siberian High, reduced wind speed, higher humidity and an abnormal southerly wind. These conditions provide a favourable environment for haze with static stability and potential for hygroscopic growth. A series of SST sensitivity experiments were carried out using version 3.1 of the Community Atmosphere Model. When negative SSTA with different strengths were added into the model, all the key factors exhibited favourable features for haze, such as smaller EAWM index, stronger inversion potential, weaker vertical velocity, lower boundary layer height and higher relative humidity.
What to Do When Employees Are Gaming the System: Overcoming Resistance to Change
Authors: Rieley James B.
Published: December 2015

An attempt to address an ongoing talent retention crisis at a large service firm uncovered the root cause of staff members’ discontent: Employees working in the field felt disconnected from the organization's sense of purpose and community. To address that concern, management enlisted IT consultants to improve communications throughout the enterprise. Both the consultants and company managers soon realized, however, that the mere introduction of a new system did not guarantee its widespread acceptance—particularly when employees were gaming the system for fear of being negatively affected by it. Careful mapping of the cause‐and‐effect relationships that led to employees’ overt and covert resistance to the initiative was instrumental in gaining the support needed to help management achieve its goals. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Advances in nonlinear optical spectroscopies: a historical perspective of developments and applications presented at ECONOS
Authors: Kiefer Johannes , Materny Arnulf , Moger Julian , Offerhaus Herman L. , Radi Peter P. , Volkmer Andreas , Zheltikov Aleksei M.
Published: December 2015

This article reviews the contributions to the special issues of the annual European Conference on Nonlinear Optical Spectroscopy (ECONOS) since its establishment in 2002. The review does not only highlight the developments of the scientific areas related to nonlinear optical spectroscopy in Europe but also shows how different sub‐fields evolved globally because ECONOS evolved as an international meeting attracting participants from all over the world. Four main topical categories are identified: (1) theoretical and instrumental developments, (2) applications to gas‐phase and combustion systems, (3) applications to condensed phase matter, and (4) development and applications of micro‐spectroscopy methods. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of yeast fermentation on dough matrix properties
Authors: Rezaei Mohammad N , Jayaram Vinay B , Verstrepen Kevin J , Courtin Christophe M
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Most studies on dough properties are performed on yeastless dough to exclude the complicating, time‐dependent effect of yeast. Baker's yeast, however, impacts dough matrix properties during fermentation, probably through the production of primary (CO2 and ethanol) and secondary (glycerol, acetic acid and succinic acid) metabolites. The aim of this study is to obtain a better understanding of the changes in yeasted dough behavior introduced by fermentation, by investigating the impact of yeast fermentation on Farinograph dough consistency, dough spread, Kieffer rig dough extensibility and gluten agglomeration behavior in a fermented dough‐batter gluten starch separation system.

RESULTS

Results show that fermentation leads to a dough with less flow and lower extensibility that breaks more easily under stress and strain. The dough showed less elastic and more plastic deformation behavior. Gluten agglomerates were smaller for yeasted dough than for the unyeasted control.

CONCLUSION

These changes probably have to be attributed to metabolites generated during fermentation. Indeed, organic acids and also ethanol in concentrations produced by yeast were previously shown to have similar effects in yeastless dough. These findings imply the high importance of yeast fermentation metabolites on dough matrix properties in industrial bread production. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of depression and anxiety in empty nose syndrome after surgical treatment
Authors: Lee Ta‐Jen , Fu Chia‐Hsiang , Wu Ching‐Lung , Tam Yuan‐Yun , Huang Chi‐Che , Chang Po‐Hung , Chen Yi‐Wei , Wu Meng‐Hsiu
Published: December 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is often associated with psychological symptoms. With the absence of psychiatric instruments utilized in the current literature, the assessment of psychological disorder is limited, and the effectiveness of surgical intervention in improving such disorders in ENS are not well understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the change in depression and anxiety before and after surgical treatment for ENS

Study Design

Prospective cohort study in a tertiary medical center.

Methods

ENS patients indicated for surgical treatment were enrolled. The Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI‐II) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) questionnaires were completed by these patients before and after surgery to assess the level of depression and anxiety.

Results

A total of 20 patients completed the BDI‐II and BAI before and after surgical treatment. A majority of patients developed depression and anxiety prior to surgical treatment. The severity of depression and anxiety were significantly decreased following the surgery; the mean scores of both the BDI‐II and BAI improved from moderate severity to normal (both P < .001). The preoperative total score was found to be a powerful predictor for the postoperative improvement in both BDI‐II and BAI (P < .001). Female patients had significantly worse preoperative scores (P = .005) and greater postoperative improvement (P = .012) in the BDI‐II.

Conclusions

Depression and anxiety are psychological disorders prevalent among ENS patients. Surgical treatment for ENS is effective in improving depression and anxiety. Patients with worse preoperative BDI‐II and BAI scores as well as female patients may be better candidates for surgical intervention.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 126:1284–1289, 2016
Gut barrier impairment by high‐fat diet in mice depends on housing conditions
Authors: Müller Veronika Maria , Zietek Tamara , Rohm Florian , Fiamoncini Jarlei , Lagkouvardos Ilias , Haller Dirk , Clavel Thomas , Daniel Hannelore
Published: December 2015

Scope

Diet‐induced obesity (DIO) is proposed to cause impairments in intestinal barrier integrity, but contradictory results have been published and it appears that the outcomes depend on other environmental factors. We therefore assessed whether the hygienic status of animal facilities alters the gut barrier in DIO mice.

Methods and results

Male C57BL/6N mice were housed in a conventional (CV) or a specific pathogen‐free (SPF) animal facility and were fed identical diets represented by a high‐fat (60kJ% fat) or control diet (11kJ% fat) for 12 wks. Intestinal barrier function in small and large intestine was evaluated in Ussing chambers by electrical resistance and permeability measurements. Jejunal (p < 0.01) and proximal colonic (p < 0.05) barrier function was altered in CV DIO mice, but not in SPF DIO mice. Moreover, only CV DIO mice were characterized by metabolic endotoxemia and low‐grade inflammation. High‐throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed significant differences in fecal bacterial diversity and composition between the two animal facilities, but only in mice fed the HFD. Moreover, cecal DCA concentrations correlated positively with two yet uncultivated Clostridiales species.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that housing conditions and associated changes in gut bacterial colonization are pivotal for maintenance of gut barrier integrity in DIO mice.
How does 3D endovaginal ultrasound compare to magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of levator ani anatomy?
Authors: Javadian Pouya , O'Leary Dena , Rostaminia Ghazaleh , North Justin , Wagner Jason , Quiroz Lieschen H. , Shobeiri S. Abbas
Published: December 2015

Introduction and Hypothesis

To compare magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to 3D endovaginal ultrasound (EVUS) in the evaluation of major levator ani defects in women with pelvic floor disorders.

Methods

A total of 21 subjects with pelvic floor with complaints of pelvic floor disorders were included in this study. EVUS imaging of the levator ani muscle (LAM) was performed in all subjects, and the LA muscle groups of interest evaluated were the puboanalis (PA), puborectalis (PR), and pubovisceralis (PV) muscles. The right and left subdivisions were evaluated separately, and classified as (i) normal, normal with only minor irregularities, grossly abnormal, or absent, or (ii) by the levator ani deficiency (LAD) score and classified by no defect (complete attachment of muscle to the pubic bone), <50% detachment or loss, >50% detachment or loss, and completely detached or complete muscle loss. Paired data were analyzed with McNemar's test or Bowker's test of symmetry.

Results

When unilateral LAM subdivisions were classified as “normal,” “normal with minor irregularity,” “grossly abnormal,” and “absent,” there were no significant differences between MRI and EVUS by categorization of LAM defects. Comparing “normal” versus “abnormal,” there was no difference between imaging modalities. When compared by LAD score evaluation, there were no differences in the categorization of unilateral defects between MRI and EVUS.

Conclusions

Endovaginal 3D US is comparable to MRI in its ability to identify both normal and abnormal LAM anatomy. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:409–413, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Review 10 trends impacting distance and continuing education, Part 1
Authors: Scull Reed , Thorup Jennifer , Howell Scott L.
Published: December 2015

No one can dispute that distance and continuing education is a field that is as changeable as it is complex. Formerly a little‐recognized sideline, distance and continuing education units have been embraced by universities and elevated their function's stature as a core activity in higher education. Thus, leaders in the distance and continuing education field now have the opportunity to become campus leaders that provide insights on financial, programmatic and pedagogical innovation, according to Gary Matkin in “The Distance Educator's Opportunity for Institutional Leadership,” published in the Continuing Higher Education Review.
Detecting Drugs in Saliva
Authors: Barnett Nick , Rathmell Cicely
Published: December 2015

For law enforcement and medical professionals, rapid detection of illicit and harmful drugs saves time, resources and even lives. Raman spectroscopy is a well‐established method for substance identification, but until now has not been practical for human intoxication testing. Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) substrates have reduced sensitivity and cost barriers, allowing Raman to be successfully applied to noninvasive testing of trace concentrations of drugs in saliva.
Poly(2‐oxazoline) hydrogels crosslinked with aliphatic bis(2‐oxazoline)s: Properties, cytotoxicity, and cell cultivation
Authors: Zahoranová Anna , Kroneková Zuzana , Zahoran Miroslav , Chorvát Dušan , Janigová Ivica , Kronek Juraj
Published: December 2015

A series of hydrogels from 2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline and three bis(2‐oxazoline) crosslinkers—1,4‐butylene‐2,2′‐bis(2‐oxazoline), 1,6‐hexamethylene‐2,2′‐bis(2‐oxazoline), and 1,8‐octamethylene‐2,2′‐bis(2‐oxazoline)—are prepared. The hydrogels differ by the length of aliphatic chain of crosslinker and by the percentage of crosslinker (2–10%). The influence of the type and the percentage of the crosslinker on swelling properties, mechanical properties, and state of water is studied. The equilibrium swelling degree in water ranges from 2 to 20. With a proper selection of the crosslinker, Young's modulus can be varied from 10 kPa to almost 100 kPa. To evaluate the potential for medical applications, the cytotoxicity of extracts and the contact toxicity toward murine fibroblasts are measured. The hydrogels with the crosslinker containing a shorter aliphatic exhibit low toxicity toward fibroblast cells. Moreover, the viability and the proliferation of pancreatic β‐cells incubated inside hydrogels for 12 days are analyzed. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 1548–1559
Solvent and micellar effects upon the reaction of NADH models with methylene blue
Authors: Engbersen J. F. J. , Koudijs A. , van der Plas H. C.
Published: December 2015

The oxidation of the NADH‐model compounds 1‐R‐1,4‐dihydronicotinamide (R = benzyl, octyl or cetyl) and 1‐benzyl‐1,4‐dihydroquinoline‐3‐carboxamide by methylene blue proceeds via a direct hydride transfer mechanism. In the transition state of this reaction, a considerable fraction of positive charge is developed in the dihydronicotinamide ring. Effects of solvents and effects of NaLS micelles upon the reaction have been investigated. In organic solvents, the oxidation proceeds ca. 1.5–50 times more slowly than in water. Interestingly, the reaction rate in organic solvents increases with decreasing polarity of the solvents. In aqueous NaLS solution, the oxidation of the NADH models proceeds 9‐80 times more rapidly than in water. The kinetic data in micellar solution are analyzed in terms of the pseudophase model, taking into account partitioning of the reactants between micellar and aqueous pseudophase. It appears that the observed rate enhancements in micellar solution are completely due to an increase of the reactant concentrations in the micellar pseudophase. The second‐order rate constants for oxidation in the micellar pseudophase are 35‐150 times smaller than those in the aqueous phase. It is suggested that both a decrease of the micropolarity and a unfavourable orientation of the reactants contribute to the low values of the second‐order rate constants in the micellar pseudophase.
Treatment Optimization Through Refinement of a Conceptual Site Model Using Compound Specific Isotope Analysis
Authors: Smith Gregory , Wang Yi
Published: December 2015

Two adjacent automotive component manufacturers in Japan had concentrations of trichloroethene (TCE) and perchloroethene (PCE) in soils and groundwater beneath their plants. One of the manufacturers extensively used these solvents in its processes, while the adjacent manufacturer had no documentation of solvent use. The conceptual site model (CSM) initially involved a single source that migrated from one building to under the adjacent building. Further, because low concentrations of daughter products (e.g., cis‐1,2‐dichloroethene; 3.6 to 840 micrograms per liter [μg/L]) were detected in groundwater, the CSM did not consider intrinsic degradation to be a significant fate mechanism. With this interpretation, the initial remedial design involved both source treatment and perimeter groundwater control to prevent offsite migration of the solvents in groundwater. Identifying whether intrinsic degradation was occurring and could be quantified represented a means of eliminating this costly and potentially redundant component. Further, incorporating intrinsic degradation into the remediation design would also allow for a more focused source treatment, resulting in further cost savings. Three rounds of sampling and data interpretation applying compound specific isotope analysis (CSIA) were used to refine the CSM. The first sampling round involved three‐dimensional CSIA (13C, 37Cl, and 2H), while the second two rounds involved 13C only, focusing on degradation over time. For the May 2012 sampling, δ13C for PCE ranged from –31‰ to –29.6 ‰ and for TCE ranged from –30.4‰ to –28.3‰; showing similar values. δ2H for TCE ranged from 581‰ to 629‰, indicating a manufactured TCE rather than that resulting from dehalogenation processes from PCE. However, mixing of manufactured TCE with that resulting from degraded PCE cannot be ruled out. Because of the similar δ13C ratios for PCE and TCE, and 37Cl data for PCE and TCE, fractionation and enrichment factors could not be relied upon. Fractionation patterns were evaluated using graphical methods to trace TCE to the source location to better focus the locations for steam injection. Graphical methods were also used to define the degradation mechanism and from this, incorporate intrinsic degradation processes into the remedial design, eliminating the need for a costly perimeter pump and treat system. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Early Campanian (Late Cretaceous) Pleromidae and Isoraphiniidae (lithistid Demospongiae) from the Łódź‐Miechów Synclinorium (central and southern Poland): new data and taxonomic revision
Authors: Świerczewska‐Gładysz Ewa
Published: December 2015

An abundant and diversified assemblage of early Campanian lithistid Demospongiae has been identified in the Miocene gravels exposed in the Bełchatów lignite mine. Fourteen species of Pleromidae and one species of Isoraphiniidae have been distinguished in the assemblage. Among them, five species (Pachypoterion koeneni Schrammen; P. compactum Hinde; Gigantodesma aurita (Schrammen); Amphilectella piriformis Schrammen; and Heterostinia immanis Schrammen) have not been previously recorded from Poland. Moreover, one new genus and species, Stipesia belchatowiensis, assigned to the family Pleromidae, is described. Streptasters were found in the latter species and in Heterostinia immanis. They represent the first documented in situ microscleres in the fossil species of the Pleromidae. Due to the unique state of preservation of the sponges, significant new data on the choanosomal skeleton and ectosomal megascleres of Cretaceous pleromid and isoraphiniid taxa are also presented. This paper also provides a taxonomic revision of Campanian pleromid and isoraphiniid sponges from southern Poland, derived from museum collections. Six species described by Hurcewicz as new taxa are considered to be junior synonyms of species known from the Upper Cretaceous of Europe. The taxonomic composition of both analysed groups is almost identical to the assemblages from central and southern Poland; a similar composition has been noted among the Pleromidae and Isoraphiniidae in sponge assemblages from the lower and middle Campanian of Germany.