bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing hepatic fibrosis in spontaneously hypertensive rats fed a choline‐deficient diet: a follow‐up report on long‐term effects of oxidative stress in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroya , Kanno Keishi , Ikuta Takuya , Arihiro Koji , Sugiyama Akiko , Kishikawa Nobusuke , Tazuma Susumu
Published: February 2016

Background

We previously reported a model of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) using spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), fed a choline‐deficient (CD) diet for 5 weeks, that hepatic steatosis but not fibrosis is developed through oxidative stress. To determine the relationship between hypertension and hepatic fibrosis in NAFLD, we examined whether long‐term CD diet leads to hepatic fibrosis through oxidative stress.

Methods

Eight‐week‐old male SHR and normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKYs) were fed a CD diet for 5 or 20 weeks, then liver histology and hepatic expression of genes related to lipid metabolism, fibrosis, and oxidative stress were assessed. Oxidative stress was assessed by hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels.

Results

After 5 weeks on CD diet, prominent hepatic steatosis and decrease in expression of genes for lipid metabolism were observed in SHRs as compared with WKYs. SHRs on a CD diet demonstrated a downregulated expression of genes for antioxidants, along with significant increases in hepatic TBARS. After 20 weeks on CD diet, SHRs demonstrated severe liver fibrosis and upregulated expressions of genes for fibrosis when compared with WKY.

Conclusion

Hypertension precipitated hepatic steatosis, and further, acts as an enhancer in NAFLD progression to liver fibrosis through oxidative stress.
Potential impacts of forestation on future climate change in Southern Africa
Authors: Naik Myra , Abiodun Babatunde J.
Published: February 2016

Many studies have projected future climate changes over Southern Africa, but without including the influence of on‐going forestation activities in the region. The present study investigates how the forestation activities may alter the projected climate change. For the study, two regional climate models (RegCM and WRF) were applied to simulate the present‐day climate (1970–2004) and future climate (2030–2064; IPCC RCP 4.5), with and without forestation. The simulations account for the potential impacts of natural bush encroachment and commercial forestation activities over the eastern part of South Africa. The results agree with previous studies that found that the RCP4.5 emission scenario would induce warming over Southern Africa in the future, but the results further indicate that forestation would enhance the warming over the forested area and induce cooling elsewhere. The additional warming over the forested area is due to the albedo effect of the forestation, while the cooling is due to the dynamic feedback of the local warming induced by the forestation. For similar reasons, the forestation would induce wet and dry conditions over different areas in the sub‐continent in the future. As a result of its combined influences on rainfall and temperature, the forestation would enhance summer drought frequency over some areas but reduce it over other areas in Southern Africa. The simulations suggest that using forestation to mitigate the impacts of global warming may produce unintended climate impacts over some areas in Southern Africa. Hence, before embarking on large‐scale forestation, the biophysical effects of forestation in Southern Africa should be weighed against the biogeochemical benefits.
Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of kernel anthocyanins from southwestern United States blue corn
Authors: Nankar Amol N , Dungan Barry , Paz Neil , Sudasinghe Nilusha , Schaub Tanner , Holguin F Omar , Pratt Richard C
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

Anthocyanin‐rich blue corn is an emerging specialty crop in the USA. The antioxidant properties of blue corn offer health benefits in the human diet. The objectives of this study were to identify, characterize and quantify the anthocyanins from blue corn. Hypotheses tested were that total anthocyanin content was similar among southwestern US accessions and that it would vary across locations. It was also examined whether different anthocyanin components were unique to certain genotypes.

RESULTS

Across all locations and accessions, an average of 0.43 g kg−1 total anthocyanin content (TAC) was observed. Accessions Santa Clara Blue and Ohio Blue displayed the highest TAC. The TAC of accession Flor del Rio was lower by nearly a factor of six. A total of five anthocyanin components were identified. Cyanidin 3‐glucoside was the most abundant, followed by pelargonidin and peonidin 3‐glucoside. Succinyl and disuccinyl glycosidic forms of cyanidin were also identified. Cyanidin 3‐disuccinylglucoside was newly identified as a novel form of anthocyanin.

CONCLUSION

Quantitative and qualitative anthocyanin expression was determined to be relatively stable across multiple southwestern environments. Increased expression of red and purple pigmentation in accession Flor del Rio appeared to be associated more with reduced TAC and cyanidin 3‐glucoside than with elevated pelargonidin per se. A previously unreported anthocyanin component in blue corn, cyanidin 3‐disuccinylglucoside, is present in southwestern landraces. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Validation of “laboratory‐supported” criteria for functional (psychogenic) tremor
Authors: Schwingenschuh Petra , Saifee Tabish A. , Katschnig‐Winter Petra , Macerollo Antonella , Koegl‐Wallner Mariella , Culea Valeriu , Ghadery Christine , Hofer Edith , Pendl Tamara , Seiler Stephan , Werner Ulrike , Franthal Sebastian , Maurits Natasha M. , Tijssen Marina A. , Schmidt Reinhold , Rothwell John C. , Bhatia Kailash P. , Edwards Mark J.
Published: February 2016

Background

In a small group of patients, we have previously shown that a combination of electrophysiological tests was able to distinguish functional (psychogenic) tremor and organic tremor with excellent sensitivity and specificity.

Objectives

This study aims to validate an electrophysiological test battery as a tool to diagnose patients with functional tremor with a “laboratory‐supported” level of certainty.

Methods

For this prospective data collection study, we recruited 38 new patients with functional tremor (mean age 37.9 ± 24.5 years; mean disease duration 5.9 ± 9.0 years) and 73 new patients with organic tremor (mean age 55.4 ± 25.4 years; mean disease duration 15.8 ± 17.7 years). Tremor was recorded at rest, posture (with and without loading), action, while performing tapping tasks (1, 3, and 5 Hz), and while performing ballistic movements with the less‐affected hand. Electrophysiological tests were performed by raters blinded to the clinical diagnosis. We calculated a sum score for all performed tests (maximum of 10 points) and used a previously suggested cut‐off score of 3 points for a diagnosis of laboratory‐supported functional tremor.

Results

We demonstrated good interrater reliability and test‐retest reliability. Patients with functional tremor had a higher average score on the test battery when compared with patients with organic tremor (3.6 ± 1.4 points vs 1.0 ± 0.8 points; P < .001), and the predefined cut‐off score for laboratory‐supported functional tremor yielded a test sensitivity of 89.5% and a specificity of 95.9%.

Conclusion

We now propose this test battery as the basis of laboratory‐supported criteria for the diagnosis of functional tremor, and we encourage its use in clinical and research practice. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus—A functional hypothesis from the comparative literature
Authors: Gut Nadine K. , Winn Philip
Published: February 2016

We present data from animal studies showing that the pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus—conserved through evolution, compartmentalized, and with a complex pattern of inputs and outputs—has functions that involve formation and updates of action–outcome associations, attention, and rapid decision making. This is in contrast to previous hypotheses about pedunculopontine function, which has served as a basis for clinical interest in the pedunculopontine in movement disorders. Current animal literature points to it being neither a specifically motor structure nor a master switch for sleep regulation. The pedunculopontine is connected to basal ganglia circuitry but also has primary sensory input across modalities and descending connections to pontomedullary, cerebellar, and spinal motor and autonomic control systems. Functional and anatomical studies in animals suggest strongly that, in addition to the pedunculopontine being an input and output station for the basal ganglia and key regulator of thalamic (and consequently cortical) activity, an additional major function is participation in the generation of actions on the basis of a first‐pass analysis of incoming sensory data. Such a function—rapid decision making—has very high adaptive value for any vertebrate. We argue that in developing clinical strategies for treating basal ganglia disorders, it is necessary to take an account of the normal functions of the pedunculopontine. We believe that it is possible to use our hypothesis to explain why pedunculopontine deep brain stimulation used clinically has had variable outcomes in the treatment of parkinsonism motor symptoms and effects on cognitive processing. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Community prevalence of long‐term urinary catheters use in England
Authors: Gage Heather , Avery Miriam , Flannery Caragh , Williams Peter , Fader Mandy
Published: February 2016

Objectives

To calculate the prevalence of long term catheter use in the community in two areas in the south and west of England.

Subjects/patients (or materials) and methods

People in England register with general practices to access health care through a National Health Service. Catheters are provided by prescription free of charge. In 2008, patients using urinary catheters for over 3 months were identified, and demographic information collected, from databases of general practices, using catheter prescribing records. The age and sex distributions of people in each practice were obtained from capitation claims. Overall, and age and sex‐specific prevalence were calculated separately for each area, and compared.

Results

A total of 583 long term catheter users (329 south, 254 west) were identified from 404,328 people registered with practices. The overall population prevalence is similar in both locations (0.146% southern, 0.141% western). Extrapolating for the United Kingdom, this is over 90,000 long term catheter users. Prevalence increases with age (0.732% in over 70 years, 1.224% over 80), especially amongst men. Overall, higher proportions have neurological (vs. non‐neurological) reasons (62.9% vs. 37.1%) and use urethral (vs. suprapubic) catheters (59.7% vs. 40.3%). Compared to men, more women tend to use suprapubic (56.4% vs. 29.3%) and have a catheter for neurological reasons (71.8% vs. 56.2%, P = 0.053).

Conclusions

Previous evidence on prevalence of long term catheter use is sparse, and of variable quality. The strength of this study is utilisation of a reliable source of data (catheter prescriptions) from a large population of patients. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:293–296, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of bariatric surgery on male lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual function
Authors: Groutz Asnat , Gordon David , Schachter Pinhas , Amir Hadar , Shimonov Mordechai
Published: February 2016

Aim

To investigate the effect of bariatric surgery on male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and sexual function.

Methods

Fifty‐five consecutive obese men who underwent a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy were prospectively enrolled. Two validated questionnaires, the International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) were used to assess LUTS and sexual function, before and 3 months after surgery. Fifty‐three men (mean age 39 ± 12.5 years) completed all pre and postoperative questionnaires. Mean body mass index (BMI) before and 3 months after surgery was 42.8 ± 5.3 and 31.3 ± 5.4 kg/m2; respectively.

Results

Preoperatively, 41 (77%) men (mean age 40 ± 12.9, mean BMI 42.2 ± 5 kg/m2) had some degree of LUTS and 39 (74%) men (mean age 40.7 ± 12.4, mean BMI 42.8 ± 5.6 kg/m2) were sexually active. Postoperatively, the total IPSS score decreased significantly (5.5 ± 4.4 vs. 2.7 ± 2.6; P < 0.001), however this change was due to improvement in storage phase LUTS, measured by questions 2, 4, and 7 of the IPSS questionnaire. No statistically significant changes of voiding phase LUTS, measured by questions 1, 3, 5, 6 of the IPSS, were observed. Of the various aspects of sexual dysfunction, only erectile function, measured by questions 1–5 and 15 of the IIEF questionnaire was significantly improved (22.7 ± 7.2 vs. 26.1 ± 6.5, P = 0.02). Postoperative overall intercourse satisfaction (9.5 ± 4.2 vs. 11.5 ± 3, P = 0.01) and overall satisfaction (7.9 ± 2.5 vs. 8.9 ± 1.3, P = 0.02) were significantly improved as well.

Conclusion

Male storage phase LUTS and erectile function were significantly and rapidly improved following bariatric surgery. Larger and long‐term studies are required to investigate these apparently beneficial effects. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:636–639, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantitative agreement between [15O]H2O PET and model free QUASAR MRI‐derived cerebral blood flow and arterial blood volume
Authors: Heijtel D.F.R. , Petersen E.T. , Mutsaerts H.J.M.M. , Bakker E. , Schober P. , Stevens M.F. , van Berckel B.N.M , Majoie C.B.L.M. , Booij J. , van Osch M.J.P. , van Bavel E.T. , Boellaard R. , Lammertsma A.A. , Nederveen A.J.
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this study was to assess whether there was an agreement between quantitative cerebral blood flow (CBF) and arterial cerebral blood volume (CBVA) measurements by [15O]H2O positron emission tomography (PET) and model‐free QUASAR MRI. Twelve healthy subjects were scanned within a week in separate MRI and PET imaging sessions, after which quantitative and qualitative agreement between both modalities was assessed for gray matter, white matter and whole brain region of interests (ROI).

The correlation between CBF measurements obtained with both modalities was moderate to high (r2: 0.28–0.60, P < 0.05), although QUASAR significantly underestimated CBF by 30% (P < 0.001). CBVA was moderately correlated (r2: 0.28–0.43, P < 0.05), with QUASAR yielding values that were only 27% of the [15O]H2O‐derived values (P < 0.001). Group‐wise voxel statistics identified minor areas with significant contrast differences between [15O]H2O PET and QUASAR MRI, indicating similar qualitative CBVA and CBF information by both modalities. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate that QUASAR MRI and [15O]H2O PET provide similar CBF and CBVA information, but with systematic quantitative discrepancies. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of obstructive sleep apnea on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with severe obesity
Authors: Benotti Peter , Wood G. Craig , Argyropoulos George , Pack Allan , Keenan Brendan T. , Gao Xiang , Gerhard Glenn , Still Christopher
Published: February 2016

Objective

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common among candidates for bariatric surgery. OSA and its associated intermittent hypoxia have been implicated in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. A large cohort of bariatric surgery patients was studied in an effort to explore the relationship between OSA severity, hypoxia, metabolic syndrome, and the severity of NAFLD.

Methods

Bariatric surgery candidates who underwent both polysomnography and liver biopsy were studied. The severity of OSA as determined by the apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) and parameters of hypoxia was studied in relation to extent of abnormalities of liver histology as measured by the presence of hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis.

Results

The study cohort included 362 patients with a mean age of 46.2 years and BMI of 49.9 kg/m2. On the basis of AHI, 26% of the cohort had no OSA, 32% mild OSA, 22% moderate OSA, and 20% severe OSA. For the study subjects without metabolic syndrome, positive correlations were found between OSA severity, as measured by AHI, and parameters of hypoxia, with the severity of NAFLD.

Conclusions

OSA severity and its accompanying hypoxia are associated with the severity of NAFLD.
Enhanced durability of styrene butadiene rubber nanocomposite using multifunctionalized titanium dioxide
Authors: Park Kwang Hyun , Kim Jungmo , Kwon O‐Seok , Lee Dongju , Kim Jin , Yoon Hyewon , Ahn Changui , Song Sung Ho
Published: February 2016

Homogeneous and stable dispersion of nanoparticles in polymer matrix remains a significant challenge. Here, we propose a simple and effective route for synthesizing functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles through oleic acid. The Oleic‐TiO2 nanoparticles homogeneously dispersed in SBR matrix show remarkable improvement of mechanical properties such as modulus, tensile strength, and fatigue properties, even at low loadings, which are ascribed to the enhanced interfacial bonding with the polymer matrix. Moreover, the incorporation of the Oleic‐TiO2 into SBR matrix significantly prevents photo and thermal degradation. Therefore, we confirm that our approach can suggest fascinating potentials to be scalable and commercial in polymer engineering. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:E174–E180, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
An evaluation of factors affecting preference for immediate, delayed or no breast reconstruction in women with high‐risk breast cancer
Authors: Flitcroft Kathy , Brennan Meagan , Costa Daniel , Wong April , Snook Kylie , Spillane Andrew
Published: February 2016

Objective

Women with locally advanced breast cancer face many conflicting issues affecting their choice of immediate versus delayed versus no breast reconstruction (BR). This single‐centre pilot study assessed high‐risk women's reasons and priorities in choosing the timing and type of BR in a setting where all clinically feasible options were discussed with all women.

Methods

Fifty‐one women from a metropolitan breast oncology practice, who were likely to require post‐mastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT), were recruited after making their decision about BR. Participants completed a questionnaire (69% preoperatively), adapted from Reaby (1998), evaluating the factors affecting their decision. Responses were subsequently classified into eight issue‐based domains (feeling normal, feeling good, being practical, influence of others, expectations, fear, timing and unnecessary). Demographic and clinical data were also collected.

Results

There were 32 immediate BR (IBR = 63%), seven delayed BR (DBR = 13%) and 12 no BR (NBR = 23%). Analysis using the chi square test showed women over 60 were more likely to choose NBR (p = 0.005), while women living with a partner were more likely to choose IBR (p = 0.032). The most relevant domains for both IBR and DBR were ‘feeling good’ and ‘feeling normal’; and for NBR were ‘unnecessary’ and ‘being practical’. Although all women understood pre‐operatively the potential aesthetic limitations of PMRT, 63% still chose IBR.

Conclusions

These data will enable clinicians, researchers and women with breast cancer to gain a clearer understanding of the factors that impact on the choice and timing of BR in women requiring PMRT, a major breast cancer survivorship decision. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
See the unseen: Mesorectal lymph node metastases in prostate cancer
Authors: Hijazi Sameh , Meller Birgit , Leitsmann Conrad , Strauss Arne , Ritter Christian , Lotz Joachim , Meller Johannis , Trojan Lutz , Sahlmann Carsten‐Oliver
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

Our study is the first evaluation of nodal metastatic prostate cancer (PCa) to mesorectal lymph nodes (MLN) detected by 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 76 consecutive PCa patients who underwent 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT: 61 PCa patients with biochemical recurrence (BCR) after curative treatment and 15 high‐risk PCa before primary therapy. We assessed PET‐positive MLN, which are indicative for PCa.

RESULTS

We detected PET‐positive lesions for PCa in 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT in 66 of 76 (87%) patients. Nodal disease was imaged in 47 of 66 (71%) patients. Indicative mesorectal nodal lesions for PCa were detected in 12 of 76 (15.8%) patients. The median number of PET‐positive MLN was one per patient. Seven of twelve patients had recurrent PCa after radical prostatectomy with a median PSA value of 1.84 ng/ml (range 0.31–13). Five of twelve patients had untreated first diagnosed high‐risk PCa with median PSA value of 90 ng/ml (range 4.6–93) at PET/CT, respectively. For all PET positive MLN a morphological correlate was found in CT (shortest diameter median 4 mm [range 4–21]; longest diameter median 7.5 mm [range 5–25]). After PET/CT, four patients with recurrent PCa received hormonal therapy, one patient was treated with directed radiation therapy of MLN, one patient received chemotherapy, and one patient was treated with pelvic lymph node dissection. Three high‐risk PCa patients received hormonal therapy, and two patients were treated with adjuvant hormonal therapy after radical prostatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Detection and exact location of nodal metastasis for PCa is crucial for the choice of treatment and the patient's prognosis. 68Ga‐PSMA‐PET/CT seems to improve the detection of nodal metastasis in PCa, especially concerning mesorectal lymph nodes. Prostate 76:776–780, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrical characterization of metal–semiconductor–metal structure of pseudomorphic InGaN on GaN: Simulation and experiments
Authors: Ohsawa Jun
Published: February 2016

Fermi level pinning at the free surface together with the Schottky barrier at the end electrodes forms a concave or convex lateral band structure at the surface of polarized nitrides. Experimental results on dark and photo current versus voltage characteristics as well as on responses to a short optical pulse revealed a concave structure for a 20‐nm thick InGaN layer with x = 0.13. A moderate polarization of 40% of a calculated value, a surface trap density of 2 × 1013/cm2 located at 0.6 eV below Ec, and a carrier lifetime of 1 ns can reproduce the experimental data. When Fermi level pinning is strong enough, a significant part of small bias voltages is bored by the surface InGaN layer, which results in an ohmic rise of the dark current.
Study of SEM preparation artefacts with correlative microscopy: Cell shrinkage of adherent cells by HMDS‐drying
Authors: Katsen‐Globa Alisa , Puetz Norbert , Gepp Michael M. , Neubauer Julia C. , Zimmermann Heiko
Published: February 2016

One of the often reported artefacts during cell preparation to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is the shrinkage of cellular objects, that mostly occurs at a certain time‐dependent stage of cell drying. Various methods of drying for SEM, such as critical point drying, freeze–drying, as well as hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS)‐drying, were usually used. The latter becomes popular since it is a low cost and fast method. However, the correlation of drying duration and real shrinkage of objects was not investigated yet. In this paper, cell shrinkage at each stage of preparation for SEM was studied. We introduce a shrinkage coefficient using correlative light microscopy (LM) and SEM of the same human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). The influence of HMDS‐drying duration on the cell shrinkage is shown: the longer drying duration, the more shrinkage is observed. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that cell shrinkage is inversely proportional to cultivation time: the longer cultivation time, the more cell spreading area and the less cell shrinkage. Our results can be applicable for an exact SEM quantification of cell size and determination of cell spreading area in engineering of artificial cellular environments using biomaterials. SCANNING 38:625–633, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Framing the Genetics Curriculum for Social Justice: An Experimental Exploration of How the Biology Curriculum Influences Beliefs About Racial Difference
Authors: DONOVAN BRIAN M.
Published: February 2016

This field experiment manipulated the racial framing of a reading on human genetic disease to explore whether racial terminology in the biology curriculum affects how adolescents explain and respond to the racial achievement gap in American education. Carried out in a public high school in the San Francisco Bay Area, students recruited for the study (N= 86) were randomly assigned to read either a racially framed or a nonracially framed textbook passage on genetic diseases as part of a unit on Mendelian genetics. Afterwards, they responded to two instruments measuring belief in the biological/genetic basis of race and one measure that recorded their explanations of the racial achievement gap and their willingness to volunteer their free time to fix it. Results demonstrated that students in the racially framed condition exhibited significantly greater agreement in the genetic basis of racial difference than students in the nonracially framed condition. A content analysis of students’ explanations of the achievement gap also demonstrated that a significantly greater proportion of students gave genetic explanations of the achievement gap in the racially framed condition compared to the other condition. Furthermore, students’ prior beliefs about race interacted with the reading treatments to affect students’ willingness to fix the racial achievement gap.
Compressive mechanical properties of sawdust/high density polyethylene composites under various strain rate loadings
Authors: Jaya Haliza , Omar Mohd Firdaus , Md Akil Hazizan , Ahmad Zainal Arifin , Zulkepli Nik Noriman , Abdullah Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri
Published: February 2016

This article is concerned with the static and dynamic mechanical properties of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) reinforced with sawdust (SD) at a strain rate of up to 103 s−1. In this study, the static and dynamic properties of HDPE/SD composites with different filler loadings of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 wt% SD were deliberated at different levels of strain rates (0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 650, 900, and 1100 s−1) using a conventional universal testing machine and the split Hopkinson pressure bar apparatus. The results showed that the stress–strain curves, yield behavior, stiffness, and strength properties of the HDPE/SD composites were strongly affected by both the strain rate and the filler loadings. Furthermore, the rate sensitivityof the HDPE/SD composites showed a great dependency on the applied strain rate, increasing as the strain rate increased. However, the thermal activation values showed a contrary trend. Meanwhile, for the postdamage analysis, the results showed that the applied strain rates influenced the deformation behavior of the tested HDPE/SD composites. Moreover, for the fractographic analysis at dynamic loading, the composites showed that all the specimens underwent a severe catastrophic deformation. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:162–173, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Fluoroquinolone prophylaxis in preventing BK polyomavirus infection after renal transplant: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Song Tu‐Run , Rao Zheng‐Sheng , Qiu Yang , Liu Jin‐Peng , Huang Zhong‐Li , Wang Xian‐Ding , Lin Tao
Published: February 2016

Previous studies regarding the prevention of BK viremia following renal transplantation with fluoroquinolone have yielded conflicting results. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the evidence regarding the efficacy of fluoroquinolone in preventing BK polyomavirus infection following renal transplantation. We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for research articles published prior to January 2015 using keywords such as “fluoroquinolone,” “BK viremia,” and “renal transplantation.” We extracted all types of study published in English. The primary outcome was BK viremia and viruria at 1 year post‐transplantation. Secondary outcomes were BK virus‐associated nephropathy (BKVN), graft failure, and fluoroquinolone‐resistant infection. We identified eight trials, including a total of 1477 participants with a mean duration of fluoroquinolone prophylaxis of >1 month. At 1 year, fluoroquinolone prophylaxis was not associated with a decreased incidence of BK viremia [risk ratio (RR), 0.84; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.58–1.20). No significant differences in BKVN (RR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.37–2.11), risk of graft failure due to BKVN (RR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.29–1.59), or fluoroquinolone‐resistant infection (RR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.64–1.83) were observed between the fluoroquinolone prophylaxis and control groups. The results of this study suggest that fluoroquinolone is ineffective in preventing BK polyomavirus infection following renal transplantation.
Ilya Mark Scheinker: Controversial Neuroscientist and Refugee From National Socialist Europe
Authors: Zeidman Lawrence A. , Ziller Matthias Georg , Shevell Michael
Published: February 2016

Russian-born, Vienna-trained neurologist and neuropathologist Ilya Mark Scheinker collaborated with Josef Gerstmann and Ernst Sträussler in 1936 to describe the familial prion disorder now known as Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker disease. Because of Nazi persecution following the annexation of Austria by Nazi Germany, Scheinker fled from Vienna to Paris, then after the German invasion of France, to New York. With the help of neurologist Tracy Putnam, Scheinker ended up at the University of Cincinnati, although his position was never guaranteed. He more than doubled his prior publications in America, and authored three landmark neuropathology textbooks. Despite his publications, he was denied tenure and had difficulty professionally in the Midwest because of prejudice against his European mannerisms. He moved back to New York for personal reasons in 1952, dying prematurely just 2 years later. Scheinker was twice uprooted, but persevered and eventually found some success as a refugee.
Detrimental Health Effects of Benzene Exposure in Adults After a Flaring Disaster at the BP Refinery Plant in Texas City
Authors: D’Andrea Mark A. , Reddy G. Kesava
Published: February 2016

Objective

To examine the adverse effects of benzene exposure in adults from a prolonged flaring disaster at the BP refinery in Texas City, Texas.

Methods

Adults aged 18 years and older who had been exposed and unexposed to benzene were included. We reviewed medical charts and compared measures of white blood cells (WBCs), platelets, hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate amino transferase (AST), and alanine amino transferase (ALT) in exposed and unexposed adults.

Results

Records from 2213 adults (benzene exposed, n=1826; unexposed, n=387) were reviewed. Benzene-exposed subjects had significantly higher WBC counts (7.9±2.3 vs 6.8±1.6×103 per µL, P=0.0000) and platelet counts (270.8±60.9 vs 242.5±53.7×103 per µL, P=0.0000) than did the unexposed subjects. Serum creatinine levels were also significantly higher in the exposed group than in the unexposed group (1.0±0.2 vs 0.8±0.2 mg/dL, P=0.000). Serum levels of ALP were significantly higher in the exposed subjects than in the unexposed subjects (82.1±15.6 vs 71.8±8.2 IU/L, P=0.000). Similarly, benzene-exposed subjects had significantly higher levels of AST (26.2±6.4 vs 19.7±5.3 IU/L, P=0.000) and ALT (30.6±10.8 vs 20.9±9.6 IU/L, P=0.000) than in those unexposed to benzene.

Conclusion

Benzene exposure resulted in significant alterations in hematologic and liver profiles in adults. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:233–239)
Rivalry and Reformation Politics: Reflections on Andrew Battell’s Jaga Materials Printed by Samuel Purchas from 1613 to 1625
Authors: Staller Jared
Published: February 2016

This paper reviews Andrew Battell’s primary source material for the Jaga (Imbangala) of Angola as printed by Samuel Purchas from 1613 to 1625 in Purchas, his pilgrimage and Purchas, his Pilgrimes. It argues that Purchas most often altered Battell’s data in response to rivalries and Reformation politics in England rather than on new information from Battell. A broad, comparative reading of Purchas’s materials and statistical analysis of his editorial practices demonstrates that Purchas exerted more effort to counter data based on hearsay in the popular Relation of Pigafetta and Lopes than on carefully recording eyewitness data from Andrew Battell.
Integrating Time-Varying and Ecological Exposures into Multivariate Analyses of Hospital-Acquired Infection Risk Factors: A Review and Demonstration
Authors: Brown Kevin A. , Daneman Nick , Stevens Vanessa W. , Zhang Yue , Greene Tom H. , Samore Matthew H. , Arora Paul
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVES

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) develop rapidly after brief and transient exposures, and ecological exposures are central to their etiology. However, many studies of HAIs risk do not correctly account for the timing of outcomes relative to exposures, and they ignore ecological factors. We aimed to describe statistical practice in the most cited HAI literature as it relates to these issues, and to demonstrate how to implement models that can be used to account for them.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search to identify 8 frequently cited articles having primary outcomes that were incident HAIs, were based on individual-level data, and used multivariate statistical methods. Next, using an inpatient cohort of incident Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), we compared 3 valid strategies for assessing risk factors for incident infection: a cohort study with time-fixed exposures, a cohort study with time-varying exposures, and a case-control study with time-varying exposures.

RESULTS

Of the 8 studies identified in the literature scan, 3 did not adjust for time-at-risk, 6 did not assess the timing of exposures in a time-window prior to outcome ascertainment, 6 did not include ecological covariates, and 6 did not account for the clustering of outcomes in time and space. Our 3 modeling strategies yielded similar risk-factor estimates for CDI risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Several common statistical methods can be used to augment standard regression methods to improve the identification of HAI risk factors.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2016;37(4):411–419
Moment generating functions and scaling laws in the inertial layer of turbulent wall-bounded flows
Authors: Yang Xiang I. A. , Marusic Ivan , Meneveau Charles
Published: February 2016

Properties of single- and two-point moment generating functions (MGFs) are examined in the inertial region of wall-bounded flows. Empirical evidence for power-law scaling of the single-point MGF $\langle \text{exp}(qu^{+})\rangle$ (where $u^{+}$ is the normalized streamwise velocity fluctuation and $q$ a real parameter) with respect to the wall-normal distance is presented, based on hot-wire data from a $Re_{{\it\tau}}=13\,000$ boundary-layer experiment. The parameter $q$ serves as a ‘dial’ to emphasize different parts of the signal such as high- and low-speed regions, for positive and negative values of $q$, respectively. Power-law scaling $\langle \text{exp}(qu^{+})\rangle \sim (z/{\it\delta})^{-{\it\tau}(q)}$ can be related to the generalized logarithmic laws previously observed in higher-order moments, such as in $\langle u^{+2p}\rangle ^{1/p}$, but provide additional information not available through traditional moments if considering $q$ values away from the origin. For two-point MGFs, the scalings in $\langle \text{exp}[qu^{+}(x)+q^{\prime }u^{+}(x+r)]\rangle$ with respect to $z$ and streamwise displacement $r$ in the logarithmic region are investigated. The special case $q^{\prime }=-q$ is of particular interest, since this choice emphasizes rare events with high and low speeds at a distance $r$. Applying simple scaling arguments motivated by the attached eddy model, a ‘scaling transition’ is predicted to occur for $q=q_{cr}$ such that ${\it\tau}(q_{cr})+{\it\tau}(-q_{cr})=1$, where ${\it\tau}(q)$ is the set of scaling exponents for single-point MGFs. This scaling transition is not visible to traditional central moments, but is indeed observed based on the experimental data, illustrating the capabilities of MGFs to provide new and statistically robust insights into turbulence structure and confirming essential ingredients of the attached eddy model.
Higher PUFA andn-3 PUFA, conjugated linoleic acid,α-tocopherol and iron, but lower iodine and selenium concentrations in organic milk: a systematic literature review and meta- and redundancy analyses
Authors: Średnicka-Tober Dominika , Barański Marcin , Seal Chris J. , Sanderson Roy , Benbrook Charles , Steinshamn Håvard , Gromadzka-Ostrowska Joanna , Rembiałkowska Ewa , Skwarło-Sońta Krystyna , Eyre Mick , Cozzi Giulio , Larsen Mette Krogh , Jordon Teresa , Niggli Urs , Sakowski Tomasz , Calder Philip C. , Burdge Graham C. , Sotiraki Smaragda , Stefanakis Alexandros , Stergiadis Sokratis , Yolcu Halil , Chatzidimitriou Eleni , Butler Gillian , Stewart Gavin , Leifert Carlo
Published: February 2016

Demand for organic milk is partially driven by consumer perceptions that it is more nutritious. However, there is still considerable uncertainty over whether the use of organic production standards affects milk quality. Here we report results of meta-analyses based on 170 published studies comparing the nutrient content of organic and conventional bovine milk. There were no significant differences in total SFA and MUFA concentrations between organic and conventional milk. However, concentrations of total PUFA andn-3 PUFA were significantly higher in organic milk, by an estimated 7 (95 % CI −1, 15) % and 56 (95 % CI 38, 74) %, respectively. Concentrations ofα-linolenic acid (ALA), very long-chainn-3 fatty acids (EPA+DPA+DHA) and conjugated linoleic acid were also significantly higher in organic milk, by an 69 (95 % CI 53, 84) %, 57 (95 % CI 27, 87) % and 41 (95 % CI 14, 68) %, respectively. As there were no significant differences in totaln-6 PUFA and linoleic acid (LA) concentrations, then-6:n-3 and LA:ALA ratios were lower in organic milk, by an estimated 71 (95 % CI −122, −20) % and 93 (95 % CI −116, −70) %. It is concluded that organic bovine milk has a more desirable fatty acid composition than conventional milk. Meta-analyses also showed that organic milk has significantly higherα-tocopherol and Fe, but lower I and Se concentrations. Redundancy analysis of data from a large cross-European milk quality survey indicates that the higher grazing/conserved forage intakes in organic systems were the main reason for milk composition differences.
The “Knowledge” Rule
Authors: Feller S. Z.
Published: February 2016

On May 28, 1967, one Solomon Hamatprest voluntarily presented himself before the military authority, after having failed for a number of years to report for registration and medical examination as required by a notice published under the Defence Service Law, 1959 (hereafter called the Law). Omission to fulfil a duty imposed by this law constitutes an offence punishable by two years imprisonment under section 5(a) (1) of the law; and where such offence is committed “with intent to evade defence service”, the maximum penalty is increased by section 35(b) (1) to five years prison.

Before the Six Day War those who shirked defence service had consistently been charged with the lesser offence. But in the wake of the War this offence had been covered by an Amnesty Law; and that was probably why Hamatprest, among others, had been committed for trial under the alternative graver offence, involving “intent to evade defence service”, which had been explicitly excluded from the amnesty.
Statement of Reasons and Time-Limit for Administrative Decisions
Authors: Chokron Lydia
Published: February 2016

The Administrative Procedure Amendment (Statement of Reasons) Law, 1958 imposed on every public servant, the duty—subject to certain exceptions—to give the reasons in writing, for a negative decision, when requested to use his statutory authority.

However, no time-limit for furnishing its reasons was laid upon the administrative authority and no legal sanction was placed on failure to perform this duty except in the case of litigation, where the burden of proof that the public servant has legally used his authority was placed on the public servant. In other words, the presumption of legality was thus in favour of the citizen and not of the decision (sec. 6(A)). This measure is certainly important, but it is already within the field of litigation, while the importance of the Law is in the realm of non-litigious procedure.

In that situation, deliberate or negligent silence on die part of a public servant was enough to make the Law's provisions ineffective. The citizen could only bring an action before the High Court of Justice, a proceeding which is available in every case. Does this mean, therefore, that the 1958 Law did nothing more than to add another action, for failure to give reasons, to those generally available to the individual? If so, it set about it in a very roundabout way!
Note on the Publication of Israel's Treaties
Authors: Lapidoth Ruth
Published: February 2016

An Israeli lawyer who reads Professor Engel's very interesting remarks “On the Evidence of U.S. Treaty Law” will feel like the poor man who reacted to a rich man's complaints by saying: “For you the diamonds are sparse, for me the soup is thin”.

In Israel there are two official publications which give information about treaties:

1) Kitvei Amana—Israel Treaty Documents; and 2) Yalkut HaPirsumim—Government Notices. The Ministry of Justice is responsible for these two publications but it follows the advice of the Foreign Ministry in all substantive matters concerning the publication of information on treaties.

The treaties to which Israel has become a party are published in Kitvei Amana. So far, some 22 volumes have been published in this series. Bilateral agreements are published in the two languages in which the treaty was concluded, i.e., Hebrew and the official language of the other party. As to multilateral conventions, a Hebrew translation of them is published, together with the original text in one or two of the official languages of the treaty. For example, the English and the French version of the U.N. Charter were published, as well as a Hebrew translation. Together with the text of the treaty, some additional relevant information is also given: a list (with dates) of the signatures and ratifications of the treaty, date of its coming into force, date of its coming into force for Israel.
Interference with Performance of a Fiduciary Obligation
Authors: Cohen Nili
Published: February 2016

The enactment of the Trust Law, 1979, not only introduced the institution of trusts into Israeli law with complete and final validity, but it also focussed current legal attention on the primary duty derived from the function of the trustee, i.e. the duty to act loyally. The word “trust” denotes the institution, but it is also an expression of the nature of the relationship between trustee and beneficiary: a personal relationship based on mutual trust. The obligation to act loyally, which will henceforth be called the “fiduciary obligation” arose from the English institution of trusts, but was not confined by its bounds. It spread to a variety of relationships to which English law applied “fortified” norms, more demanding and more strict than those prevailing in the regular course of commerce.
The Definition of Employee for Income Tax Purposes
Authors: Edrey Joseph M.
Published: February 2016

The question of differentiating between an employee and an independent (self-employed) person has always been of primary importance in Israeli Income Tax law as a result of the various rules that distinguish these two types of assessees. In light of the adoption of the Ben-Shahar Commission's recommendations, this distinction has acquired even greater importance, as shall be explained.

This article discusses the law as it stands at present, which is not to say that in our view the current law is ideal. On the contrary, it is our opinion that the distinctions between the employed assessee—employee— and the independent assessee—self-employed—ought to be abolished. However since Israeli law does draw such distinctions at present, we shall discuss whatis, de lege lata, and leave the discussionde lege ferendafor another time.
Abortion and Judicial Review of Statutes
Authors: Livneh Ernst
Published: February 2016

It is difficult to see the connection between these two topics, but on 25 February 1975 the Constitutional Court of the Federal Republic of Germany gave a decision of great importance in both fields, and although Israel adheres to another system of law, in the opinion of the writer, this decision is of great interest here too.

The amendment of the German law relating to abortions, whose constitutionality was examined in the judgment mentioned, is part of a reform movement spreading from Europe to the Americas in the West and to Russia, India and Singapore in the East. It began to have influence upon legislation between the two wars (Russia 1920, Scandinavia and Switzerland in the 1930's), but gathered momentum particularly during the last decade (one of the earlier laws in this series is the English Abortion Act, 1967; one of the latest, the French Law of 17 January 1975).
Reflections on the Protection of the Rights of the Individual: Form and Substance
Authors: Shetreet Shimon
Published: February 2016

In the absence of a written constitution in Israel, the protection of fundamental rights of the citizens depends upon a variety of legal sources. In the course of resolving questions concerning individual rights, the courts rely upon statutory law as well as basic principles of democratic government and concepts of individual freedoms as expressed in the Israel Declaration of Independence and in international covenants.

In the Draft Basic Law: Rights of the Man and the Citizen (hereinafter referred to as the Draft Basic Law), which has passed the first reading in the Knesset, the fundamental rights will be embodied into a written Basic Law. This Basic Law together with the Basic Laws already enacted and those in preparation will eventually become the Constitution of Israel. The chapter by chapter legislative policy for enacting Israel's Constitution was laid down in 1950 by the Knesset in what has become known as the Harari Resolution. In the last eight years the drive for legislating Basic Laws, i.e., the chapters of the future Constitution, has gained momentum. It is hoped, therefore, that the day when the State of Israel will have a Constitution is not very far off.

The Draft Basic Law extends its protection over the basic civil rights commonly recognized by civilized nations and their constitutions and by international covenants. But social rights, except for the freedom of workers to “associate in labour unions for the protection and furtherance of their economic and social interests”, which is explicitly provided, are not dealt with in the Draft Basic Law.