bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution coefficients of cadmium and zinc in different soils in mono‐metal and competitive sorption systems
Authors: Shaheen Sabry M. , Tsadilas Christos D. , Rupp Holger , Rinklebe Jörg , Meissner Ralph
Published: July 2015

We aimed to investigate the distribution coefficients (Kd) of Cd and Zn in different soils in mono‐metal (MS) and competitive sorption (CS) systems. Eleven surface soil samples varying widely in their origin and properties were collected in Egypt and Greece. Sorption isotherms were determined and Kd derived. Clayey Entisols showed a higher affinity for Zn, while a Histosol showed a higher affinity for Cd. In MS the Kd of Zn was higher than the Kd of Cd in the studied soils, except for an Aridisol and acidic Alfisols. In case of CS the Kd of Zn was higher than the Kd of Cd in the soils. The Kd of Cd decreased in CS compared to MS. The decreasing percentage of Kd‐Cd ranged from 6.5% in the Histosol to 81.8% in the sandy Entisols. Kd‐Zn in CS decreased in the Entisols, Alfisols, and Histosol, but increased in the Aridisol, Vertisol, and Mollisol compared to MS. This suggests that upon co‐addition of the two metals to the soil Zn became preferentially sorbed at the expense of Cd. Permanent charge clayey soils with relatively low Fe‐, Al‐ and Mn‐oxides content sorbed more Cd and Zn than the variable charge red soils with a higher content of these oxides. Cation exchange capacity (CEC), soil organic matter, Ald, Fed, Feo, Alo and total carbonates are important for the sorption of Cd, whereas clay, CEC, Sid, Sio and Alo content determine the sorption of Zn.
Daytime leaf water use efficiency does not explain the relationship between plant N status and biomass water‐use efficiency of tobacco under non‐limiting water supply
Authors: Senbayram Mehmet , Tränkner Merle , Dittert Klaus , Brück Holger
Published: July 2015

The increasing probability of seasonal droughts and freshwater scarcity emphasizes the importance of crop traits such as water‐use efficiency (WUE) and its relation to nutrient management. In an earlier study using soil substrate in a pot experiment, we reported significant positive effects of N supply on biomass WUE of tobacco. However, there was a debate that the latter may be due to indirect effects of N supply (hidden drought), most likely because plants supplied with adequate N generally have greater biomass and hence faster depletion of soil water in the root zone. In pot and in field situation, therefore, it is difficult to relate any variation in leaf or biomass WUE to the direct effect of N supply. In this context, the aim of the current study was to re‐examine to what extent N fertilization directly affects biomass WUE and related parameters under non‐limiting water supply in hydroponics. About 2 weeks after the transfer of tobacco seedlings into nutrient solution containing 2 mM N, plants were treated with high‐N or low‐N in the form of NH4NO3. A marked decrease in CO2 assimilation with low‐N supply compared to high‐N supply was measured already 5 d after onset of treatments (DAO). In contrast, three different experiments clearly showed that stomatal conductance (gs) remained almost constant until 5 DAO resulting in significantly lower leaf WUE under low‐N compared to high‐N. Leaf WUE decreased gradually (up to 42% lower leaf WUE) at later stages. Surprisingly, biomass WUE and whole‐plant δ13C values were not affected by N supply at any harvest date, which is in contrast to our earlier report where we observed clearly positive effects of N supply on biomass WUE of the same tobacco variety in a pot experiment with soil substrate. Night‐time respiration and transpiration rates (measured by gas exchange and thermal imaging) were significantly higher with high‐N supply than with low‐N supply. The data show that 48.6% and 9.8% of the beneficiary effect of N on daytime leaf WUE were lost when nocturnal stomatal conductance and night‐time respiration of the same leaves were taken into consideration. Thus, we conclude that earlier reports showing positive effects of N supply on biomass WUE and δ13C values in soil or field experiments may be due to indirect effect of N supply (e.g., hidden/mild drought).
Water content dynamics in a volcanic ash soil slope in southern Chile
Authors: Dörner José , Huertas Jenny , Cuevas Jaime G. , Leiva César , Paulino Leandro , Arumí José L.
Published: July 2015

Andisols present exceptional physical properties, making up < 1% of the world's soils. While there is a lot of information about non‐volcanic soil properties, research about soils of volcanic origin is limited. Specifically, no major studies have been carried out to improve our knowledge of these soils' hydrological behavior, which is relevant due to the impact of climate change on water resources and to the soil's role in the hydrological cycle. Thus, the aim of this work was to analyze the water content dynamics of a soil slope derived from volcanic ashes under different land covers. We hypothesized that land cover, rainfall, and air temperature, in addition to the hydraulic properties of the volcanic ash soil, regulate the slope's water content dynamics. Our study was conducted in S Chile, in a fluvial terrace covered by pastures in the uplands, a native forest in the adjacent slope, and a hygrophilous forest in the floodplain at the base of the slope, surrounding a stream. Soil physical properties, such as bulk density (Db), volume of macropores (wCP), plant available water (PAW) and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) were studied. Rainfall, air temperature, volumetric water content (θField) and soil temperature were continuously measured with data loggers. The groundwater level was also measured. Water content dynamics reflect the behavior of rainfall and air/soil temperatures under different land covers, as well as, revealing the specific behavior of volcanic soil's pore system (e.g., Db < 0.9 Mg m−3). Soil depths exposed to more intensive and dynamic wetting and drying cycles presented well‐defined water release ranges as compared to the pore system of deeper soil horizons. Soils present large water holding capacities (PAW > 24%), however, during summer they can reach volumetric water contents near to the permanent wilting point quickly at a depth of 5 cm. The water table altitude was directly related to the temporal changes of θField measured at a depth of 50 cm, highlighting the fact that the saturated and unsaturated zones are connected.
An Osteobiography of a 19th‐Century Dog from Toronto, Canada
Authors: Tourigny E. , Thomas R. , Guiry E. , Earp R. , Allen A. , Rothenburger J. L. , Lawler D. , Nussbaumer M.
Published: July 2015

A 19th‐century dog burial uncovered from a historical homelot in Toronto, Canada, provided a unique opportunity to reconstruct the individual's osteobiography. Of particular interest are the dog's very large size and a suite of skeletal pathologies. Recovery of a nearly complete skeleton combined with the use of X‐rays and micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) allowed for a discriminating differential diagnoses. Stable isotope analyses were applied to investigate questions of diet. Results reveal an individual who suffered greatly from disease towards the end of his life and hint at its owners attitudes towards dogs. The interdisciplinary approach applied to this case study highlights the potential information obtainable from pet burials. We argue that better analyses and reporting of pet burials will help address research questions targeting broader themes related to human–animal relationships. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Central Australian Songs: A History and Reinterpretation of their Distribution through the Earliest Recordings
Authors: Gibson Jason
Published: July 2015

This paper contains a discussion of an unpublished essay by TGH Strehlow concerning the historic wax cylinder recordings of songs from Central Australia made by Walter Baldwin Spencer and Frank Gillen in 1901. The manuscript, written by Strehlow in 1968, begins with an explanation of the historical context of the song recordings, and the distribution of song and dance traditions across the Australian inland. Strehlow elucidates the content via information imparted to him by a number of Arrernte and Luritja men, who first heard these recordings over 50 years after they were made, in 1960. Their explanation of these songs reveals further information on the diffusion of song verses across vast regions in Central Australia (including Warumungu, Anmatyerr, Arrernte, and Warlpiri country), and the incorporation of European words and themes within altharte (public) songs in which men sing and dance. I have expanded Strehlow's information on Spencer's recordings further with additional information from other ethno‐historical sources and my own contemporary fieldwork. Combined, this research deepens the anthropological understanding of some of the earliest ethnographic sound recordings ever made in Australia.
TheWaikatoRiver: Changing Properties of a LivingMāori Ancestor
Authors: van Meijl Toon
Published: July 2015

InMāori cosmology, rivers and other waterways are conceptualised as living ancestors, who have their own life force and spiritual strength. The special status of rivers inMāori society also explains why they are sometimes separated from otherMāori claims to natural resources of which they were dispossessed in the 19th century. Until recently,Māori were often eager to contend that ownership of rivers is not their prime interest, but instead, they argued that they feel obliged and responsible to keep rivers fresh, clean, and flowing. This perspective, however, changed under the impact of a new government policy of selling shares in energy corporations that use freshwater and geothermal resources for energy production. In this paper,Iprovide an ethnohistorical account of theWaikatoRiver and show how conceptions of this ‘ancestral river’ changed in the course of colonial and postcolonial history, more specifically in response to a recent shift in government policy. In 2008, a joint management agreement was signed between the government andWaikatoMāori for a ‘clean and healthy river’, leaving the issue of ‘ownership’ undecided. Only two years later, however,Māori felt forced to claim ownership when the government moved to sell shares of power‐generating energy companies located along the river, which effectively transformed their ‘ancestor’ into a property object.
Business associations in Kenya: the success factors
Authors: Irwin David , Githinji Mary
Published: July 2015

Governments create the political and economic environment in which their countries' businesses operate, usually described as the ‘enabling environment’ or ‘investment climate’. In response, business associations seek to influence public policy to make it easier for their members to “do business”. Scholars suggest that interest groups are able to form lasting relationships with governments based on a resource exchange mechanism. This paper suggests that, at least in developing countries, a more nuanced explanation is necessary. Business associations, in particular, need proactively to pursue a logic of ‘competence’ as well as a logic of ‘positive relationships’. This paper assesses the outcomes of advocacy projects undertaken by business associations in Kenya in the period 2008–2013, considers the degree to which the associations contributed to the decision to change policy and then analyses the factors perceived by business associations to have led to their success in influencing public policy. We find evidence to support the expectation that business associations must develop a wide range of competences whilst building relationships with multiple stakeholders. The findings will be relevant to practitioners as well as to researchers and donors. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel polyurethane rigid foam/organically modified iron oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Alavi Nikje Mir Mohammad , Noruzian Maede , Moghaddam Sahebeh Tamaddoni
Published: July 2015

Magnetic polyurethane rigid foam nanocomposites were synthesized by incorporation of surface functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS). Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) and Fe3O4@APTS were synthesized via co‐precipitation and sol–gel methods, respectively. The main purpose of the surface modification of MNPs was the formation of hydrogen bond between amino groups of Fe3O4@APTS with the urethane groups to improve magnetic and thermal properties of the nanocomposites. The effect of different amounts of Fe3O4@APTS on the thermal and magnetic behavior of resultant nanocomposite was investigated and the optimum percentage of nanostructure in foam formulation was defined. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:877–883, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
DIGRE: Drug‐Induced Genomic Residual Effect Model for Successful Prediction of Multidrug Effects
Authors: Yang J , Tang H , Li Y , Zhong R , Wang T , Wong STC , Xiao G , Xie Y
Published: July 2015

Multidrug regimens are a promising strategy for improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects, especially for complex disorders such as cancer. However, the use of multidrug therapies is very challenging, due to a lack of understanding of the mechanisms of drug interactions. We herein present a novel computational approach—Drug‐Induced Genomic Residual Effect (DIGRE) Computational Model—to predict drug combination effects by explicitly modeling drug response curves and gene expression changes after drug treatments. The prediction performance of DIGRE was evaluated using two datasets: (i) OCI‐LY3 B‐lymphoma cells treated with 14 different drugs and (ii) MCF breast cancer cells treated with combinations of gefitinib and docetaxel at different doses. In both datasets, the predicted drug combination effects significantly correlated with the experimental results. The results indicated the model was useful in predicting drug combination effects, which may greatly facilitate the discovery of new, effective multidrug therapies.

CPT Pharmacometrics Syst. Pharmacol. (2015) 4, 91–97; doi:10.1002/psp4.1; published online on 18 February 2015.
A Systems Pharmacology Model of Erythropoiesis in Mice Induced by Small Molecule Inhibitor of Prolyl Hydroxylase Enzymes
Authors: Singh I , Nagiec EE , Thompson JM , Krzyzanski W , Singh P
Published: July 2015

Mammalian erythropoiesis is a conserved process tightly controlled by the hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF1) pathway. In this study, a small molecule inhibitor (PHI‐1) of prolyl‐hydroxylase‐2 (PHD2) enzyme involved in regulating HIF1α levels was orally administered to male BALB/c mice at 10 and 30 mg/kg. A systems pharmacology model was developed based on the measured PHI‐1 plasma exposures, kidney HIF1α, kidney erythropoietin (EPO) mRNA, plasma EPO, reticulocyte counts, red blood cells, and hemoglobin levels. The model fit resulted in the estimation of drug potency (IC50: 1.7μM), and systems parameters such as EPO mRNA turnover (kdeg_EPOmRNA: 0.43 hr‐1) and mean lifespan of reticulocytes (Tr: 81 hours). The model correctly described the observed 30–40‐fold increase in kidney HIF1α protein, ∼1,000 fold increase in EPO mRNA and 2–3‐fold increase in the reticulocytes at 30 mg/kg. This study presents the first parsimonious systems model of erythropoiesis to quantitatively describe the in vivo effects of PHD2 inhibition.

CPT Pharmacometrics Syst. Pharmacol. (2015) 4, 106–115; doi:10.1002/psp4.12; published online on 11 February 2015.
Improving Drug Sensitivity Prediction Using Different Types of Data
Authors: Hejase HA , Chan C
Published: July 2015

The algorithms and models used to address the two subchallenges that are part of the NCI‐DREAM (Dialogue for Reverse Engineering Assessments and Methods) Drug Sensitivity Prediction Challenge (2012) are presented. In subchallenge 1, a bidirectional search algorithm is introduced and optimized using an ensemble scheme and a nonlinear support vector machine (SVM) is then applied to predict the effects of the drug compounds on breast cancer cell lines. In subchallenge 2, a weighted Euclidean distance method is introduced to predict and rank the drug combinations from the most to the least effective in reducing the viability of a diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cell line.

CPT Pharmacometrics Syst. Pharmacol. (2015) 4, 98–105; doi:10.1002/psp4.2; published online on 18 February 2015.
HCV Kinetic Models and Their Implications in Drug Development
Authors: Nguyen THT , Guedj J
Published: July 2015

Chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects about 170 million people worldwide and is a major cause of liver complications. Mathematical modeling of viral kinetics under treatment has provided insight into the viral life cycle, treatment effectiveness, and drugs' mechanisms of action. Here we review the implications of viral kinetic models at the different stages of development of anti‐HCV agents.
Dynamic Modeling of the Interaction Between Autophagy and Apoptosis in Mammalian Cells
Authors: Tavassoly I , Parmar J , Shajahan‐Haq AN , Clarke R , Baumann WT , Tyson JJ
Published: July 2015

Autophagy is a conserved biological stress response in mammalian cells that is responsible for clearing damaged proteins and organelles from the cytoplasm and recycling their contents via the lysosomal pathway. In cases of mild stress, autophagy acts as a survival mechanism, while in cases of severe stress cells may switch to programmed cell death. Understanding the decision process that moves a cell from autophagy to apoptosis is important since abnormal regulation of autophagy occurs in many diseases, including cancer. To integrate existing knowledge about this decision process into a rigorous, analytical framework, we built a mathematical model of cell fate decisions mediated by autophagy. Our dynamical model is consistent with existing quantitative measurements of autophagy and apoptosis in rat kidney proximal tubular cells responding to cisplatin‐induced stress.
A Joint Model for the Kinetics of CTC Count and PSA Concentration During Treatment in Metastatic Castration‐Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wilbaux M , Tod M , De Bono J , Lorente D , Mateo J , Freyer G , You B , Hénin E
Published: July 2015

Assessment of treatment efficacy in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is limited by frequent nonmeasurable bone metastases. The count of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) is a promising surrogate marker that may replace the widely used prostate‐specific antigen (PSA). The purpose of this study was to quantify the dynamic relationships between the longitudinal kinetics of these markers during treatment in patients with mCRPC. Data from 223 patients with mCRPC treated by chemotherapy and/or hormonotherapy were analyzed for up to 6 months of treatment. A semimechanistic model was built, combining the following several pharmacometric advanced features: (1) Kinetic‐Pharmacodynamic (K‐PD) compartments for treatments (chemotherapy and hormonotherapy); (2) a latent variable linking both marker kinetics; (3) modeling of CTC kinetics with a cell lifespan model; and (4) a negative binomial distribution for the CTC random sampling. Linked with survival, this model would potentially be useful for predicting treatment efficacy during drug development or for therapeutic adjustment in treated patients.
Integration of Physiologically‐Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling into Early Clinical Development: An Investigation of the Pharmacokinetic Nonlinearity
Authors: Zhou L , Gan J , Yoshitsugu H , Gu X , Lutz JD , Masson E , Humphreys WG
Published: July 2015

BMS‐911543, a promising anticancer agent, exhibited time‐dependent and dose‐dependent nonlinear pharmacokinetics (PKs) in its first‐in‐human (FIH) study. Initial physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling efforts using CYP1A2‐mediated clearance kinetics were unsuccessful; however, further model analysis revealed that CYP1A2 time‐dependent inhibition (TDI) and perhaps other factors could be keys to the nonlinearity. Subsequent experiments in human liver microsomes showed that the compound was a time‐dependent inhibitor of CYP1A2 and were used to determine the enzyme inactivation parameter values. In addition, a rat tissue distribution study was conducted and human plasma samples were profiled to support the refinement of the PBPK model. It was concluded that the interplay between four BMS‐911543 properties, namely, low solubility, saturation of the metabolizing enzyme CYP1A2, CYP1A2 TDI, and CYP1A2 induction likely resulted in the time‐dependent and dose‐dependent nonlinear PKs. The methodology of PBPK model‐guided unmasking of compound properties can serve as a general practice for mechanistic understanding of a new compound's disposition.
A Population Approach to Characterize Interferon Beta‐1b Effect on Contrast Enhancing Lesions in Patients With Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Gulati A , Bagnato F , Villoslada P , Velez de Mendizabal N
Published: July 2015

In patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), interferon beta‐1b (IFNβ‐1b) reduces the occurrence of contrast enhancing lesions (CELs) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Questions remain on the stability of IFNβ‐1b effect over time and its action beyond the reduction of CELs. In this study, we described the IFNβ‐1b effect by a mixed effects model, quantifying the interpatient variability associated with its parameters. Using a negative binomial distribution model as a natural history model, the effect of IFNβ‐1b was evaluated using different mathematical functions of time. IFNβ‐1b produced a decrease in the expected CEL numbers, inhibiting the formation of new CELs but did not promote the resolution of the already‐formed ones. Based on the final selected model, simulations were carried out to optimize the combined IFNβ‐1b‐corticosteroid therapy as a proof‐of‐concept. In summary, we provide evidence on the dynamics of CELs under IFNβ‐1b treatment that can be used to monitor the effects of therapies in MS.
In Vivo Tissue Pharmacokinetics of Carbon‐11‐Labeled Clozapine in Healthy Volunteers: A Positron Emission Tomography Study
Authors: Park HS , Kim E , Moon BS , Lim NH , Lee BC , Kim SE
Published: July 2015

We investigated clozapine (CLZ) tissue pharmacokinetics in vivo by using carbon‐11‐labeled CLZ (11C‐CLZ) and positron emission tomography (PET). Eight healthy volunteers underwent 11C‐CLZ studies wherein computed tomography image acquisition was followed by PET scans (whole‐body, four; brain, four). After bolus intravenous 11C‐CLZ injection, PET images were acquired at various timepoints for 2–3 hours. Tissue 11C‐CLZ signals were plotted over time, and pharmacokinetic parameters were determined. High 11C‐CLZ radioactivity was detected in the liver and brain, implying CLZ hepatic metabolism and efficient blood–brain barrier penetration. The urinary and hepatobiliary tracts were involved in 11C‐CLZ excretion. Moderate to high radioactivity was observed in the dopaminergic and serotonergic receptor‐rich brain regions, indicating CLZ binding to multiple receptor types. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the determination of 11C‐CLZ tissue pharmacokinetics in humans. PET using radiolabeled drugs can provide valuable information that could complement plasma pharmacokinetic data.
Organ Impairment—Drug–Drug Interaction Database: A Tool for Evaluating the Impact of Renal or Hepatic Impairment and Pharmacologic Inhibition on the Systemic Exposure of Drugs
Authors: Yeung CK , Yoshida K , Kusama M , Zhang H , Ragueneau‐Majlessi I , Argon S , Li L , Chang P , Le CD , Zhao P , Zhang L , Sugiyama Y , Huang S‐M
Published: July 2015

The organ impairment and drug–drug interaction (OI‐DDI) database is the first rigorously assembled database of pharmacokinetic drug exposure data from publicly available renal and hepatic impairment studies presented together with the maximum change in drug exposure from drug interaction inhibition studies. The database was used to conduct a systematic comparison of the effect of renal/hepatic impairment and pharmacologic inhibition on drug exposure. Additional applications are feasible with the public availability of this database.
Sobol Sensitivity Analysis: A Tool to Guide the Development and Evaluation of Systems Pharmacology Models
Authors: Zhang X‐Y , Trame MN , Lesko LJ , Schmidt S
Published: July 2015

A systems pharmacology model typically integrates pharmacokinetic, biochemical network, and systems biology concepts into a unifying approach. It typically consists of a large number of parameters and reaction species that are interlinked based upon the underlying (patho)physiology and the mechanism of drug action. The more complex these models are, the greater the challenge of reliably identifying and estimating respective model parameters. Global sensitivity analysis provides an innovative tool that can meet this challenge.

CPT Pharmacometrics Syst. Pharmacol. (2015) 4, 69–79; doi:10.1002/psp4.6; published online 25 February 2015
Effect of reset voltage polarity on the resistive switching region of unipolar memory
Authors: Wang Zhongqiang , Xu Haiyang , Zhao Xiaoning , Lin Ya , Zhang Lei , Ma Jiangang , Liu Yichun
Published: July 2015

In this study, investigation of the unipolar resistive switching (RS) of InGaZnO film indicates that the reset voltage polarity can strongly affect the RS region. The dependence of the RS characteristics on the top electrode (Pt, Al, or Cu) was investigated. Asymmetrical electrodes (Cu/InGaZnO/Al) were chosen and the dependence of the RS parameters (e.g., high and low resistance states, set and reset voltages) on these two diverse electrodes can provide two indicators to trace the location of the RS region. The RS region is usually located near the anode when the applied set and reset voltages have the same polarity. In comparison, when the reset voltage has the opposite polarity to the set voltage, the RS region prefers to be located near the anode of the reset process rather than the cathode (which is used as the anode in the set process), indicating the movement of the RS region during the reset process. With the aid of joule heating, oxygen ions can overcome the energy barrier during the reset process under small voltage, resulting in the CFs restructuring and having the inverse shape, which is responsible for the drift mechanism of the RS region.
Re: Predictive value of cervical length in women with twin pregnancy presenting with threatened preterm labor. N. Melamed, L. Hiersch, R. Gabbay‐Benziv, R. Bardin, I. Meizner, A. Wiznitzer and Y. Yogev. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2015; 46: 73–81
Authors: Barrett J.
Published: July 2015

Linked Comment: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2015; 46: 73–81
The ratio of phosphatidylcholines to lysophosphatidylcholines in plasma differentiates healthy controls from patients with Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Klavins Kristaps , Koal Therese , Dallmann Guido , Marksteiner Josef , Kemmler Georg , Humpel Christian
Published: July 2015

Background

Metabolomic processes have been identified as being strongly linked to the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thus, lipid metabolites appear to be highly useful as diagnostic substrates for the diagnosis of AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in plasma.

Methods

We analyzed plasma samples from controls (n = 35), MCI (n = 33), and AD patients (n = 43) using the AbsoluteIDQ p180 Kit (Biocrates Life Sciences), which included quantitative analysis of 40 acylcarnitines, 21 amino acids, 19 biogenic amines, 15 sphingolipids, 90 glycerophospholipids, and sum of hexoses.

Results

We found that individual lipid metabolites can differentiate controls from MCI and AD with relevant significance. However, the ratio between PC aa C34:4 and lysoPC a C18:2 differentiates controls from MCI (P = .0000007) and from AD (P = .0000009) with greater significance.

Conclusions

The results provide evidence that the ratio of these two lipid metabolites is useful for diagnosing MCI and AD with an accuracy of 82%–85%.
Emotional Regulation of Mental Pain as Moderator of Suicidal Ideation in Military Settings
Authors: Shelef L. , Fruchter E. , Hassidim A. , Zalsman G.
Published: July 2015

Background

In the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as well as in most armies throughout the world, the leading cause of death during peace-time is suicide. This study examines emotional regulation of mental pain as a contributor to suicidal ideation in soldiers.

Methods

One hundred sixty-eight IDF soldiers (aged 18–21 years, 59% males) completed the following self-report questionnaires: Scale for Suicide Ideation (SSI); Orbach & Mikulincer Mental Pain Scale (OMMP); and Emotional Regulation of Mental Pain questionnaire. Participants were divided into 3 groups: soldiers who attempted suicide (AS group,n= 58), soldiers under treatment by a mental health professional and reporting no suicidal behavior (PT group,n= 58), and controls (C group,n= 50).

Results

Suicide ideation, mental pain, and low emotional regulation were significantly higher in the suicidal group as compared to the two other groups (P< 0.001). Mental pain was significantly related to more suicide ideation in soldiers with low ability to regulate mental pain (P< .001 for the interaction).

Conclusion

Emotional regulation of mental pain moderates the link between mental pain and suicide ideation. Soldiers with high mental pain and low regulation of mental pain exhibited higher suicidal ideation. These findings may assist in planning prevention programs in the army and similar settings.
Reversal of P‐glycoprotein overexpression by Ginkgo biloba extract in the brains of pentylenetetrazole‐kindled and phenytoin‐treated mice
Authors: Zhang Ce , Fan Qing , Chen Shu‐Liang , Ma Hui
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate the combined effects of Ginkgo biloba extract and phenytoin (PHT) sodium as a dose regimen simulating the clinical treatment of patients with epilepsy, on P‐glycoprotein (P‐GP) overexpression in a pentylenetetrazole‐kindled mouse model of epilepsy. Epilepsy was induced by intraperitoneal administration of pentylenetetrazole (40 mg/kg) for 7 days followed by intragastric administration of PHT (40 mg/kg) for 14 days. Thirty mice that developed seizures were randomly divided into three groups and administered PHT as well as the following treatments: saline (negative control); verapamil (20 mg/kg, positive control); and G. biloba (30 mg/kg). Seizure severity was recorded 30 minutes after treatment on Day 4 of drug administration, after which the mice were euthanized, and their brains isolated. Western blots and immunohistochemistry were performed to analyze the expression of P‐GP and caspase‐3, respectively, in the brain tissue. High‐performance liquid chromatography was used to measure the concentrations of PHT in the brains of the treated mice. After 4 consecutive days of treatment, the seizure severity in the mice in the G. biloba extract group was more significantly reduced than the seizure severity in the saline control group, and a significant difference was observed between the G. biloba extract and verapamil control groups (p < 0.05). P‐GP expression in the brain more significantly decreased in the mice treated with G. biloba extract and verapamil than it did in the saline‐treated control group (p < 0.05). Compared with the saline‐treated control group, the mice treated with G. biloba extract and verapamil showed significantly increased brain PHT concentrations (p < 0.05). Furthermore, caspase‐3 expression in the brain tissue of the G. biloba extract group was significantly lower than that in the vehicle control group (p < 0.05); this finding demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of G. biloba. Therefore, this study showed that treatment with G. biloba extract in combination with PHT prevented the upregulation of P‐GP expression in mice. Moreover, G. biloba extract decreased seizure severity in pentylenetetrazole‐kindled/PHT‐treated mice through a mechanism that might be related to the reduction of P‐GP expression in the brain.
Posterior pole asymmetry analysis and retinal thickness measurements in young relatives of glaucoma patients
Authors: Pekel Gökhan , Acer Semra , Yağcı Ramazan , Kaya Hüseyin , Özbakış Fatih , Bahar Alperen , Çetin Ebru Nevin
Published: July 2015

The presence of a family history of glaucoma is a known risk factor for primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) in middle‐aged and older individuals. In this study, our aim was to demonstrate possible early glaucomatous alterations in young first‐ and second‐degree relatives of POAG patients by spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography. A total of 104 participants (52 relatives of POAG patients and 52 healthy individuals) were recruited in this cross‐sectional study. All the participants were between 17 years and 45 years of age. All eyes underwent testing with spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography. Peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, hemifield macular thickness, macular ganglion cell complex thickness, posterior pole asymmetry analysis, and retinal arteriolar caliber measurements were taken for comparison between the study and control groups. The mean peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness was 104.9 ± 8.8 μm in the study group and 105.6 ± 7.4 μm in the control group (p = 0.68). Although whole macular thickness measurements were higher in the control group when compared with the study group (p = 0.008), the macular ganglion cell complex thickness was similar in both groups (p = 0.87). The posterior pole asymmetry analysis revealed no statistically significant difference between the groups in the aspect of consecutive black squares (p = 0.79). The mean retinal arteriolar caliber was 85.9 ± 4.8 μm in the study group and 86.0 ± 5.0 μm in the control group (p = 0.90). In conclusion, young relatives of POAG patients do not show characteristic glaucomatous damage when compared with the controls.
The role of the emergency medical dispatch centre (EMDC) and prehospital emergency care safety: results from an incident report (IR) system
Authors: Mortaro Alberto , Pascu Diana , Zerman Tamara , Vallaperta Enrico , Schönsberg Alberto , Tardivo Stefano , Pancheri Serena , Romano Gabriele , Moretti Francesca
Published: July 2015

Introduction

The role of the emergency medical dispatch centre (EMDC) is essential to ensure coordinated and safe prehospital care. The aim of this study was to implement an incident report (IR) system in prehospital emergency care management with a view to detecting errors occurring in this setting and guiding the implementation of safety improvement initiatives.

Methods

An ad hoc IR form for the prehospital setting was developed and implemented within the EMDC of Verona. The form included six phases (from the emergency call to hospital admission) with the relevant list of potential error modes (30 items). This descriptive observational study considered the results from 268 consecutive days between February and November 2010.

Results

During the study period, 161 error modes were detected. The majority of these errors occurred in the resource allocation and timing phase (34.2%) and in the dispatch phase (31.0%). Most of the errors were due to human factors (77.6%), and almost half of them were classified as either moderate (27.9%) or severe (19.9%). These results guided the implementation of specific corrective actions, such as the adoption of a more efficient Medical Priority Dispatch System and the development of educational initiatives targeted at both EMDC staff and the population.

Conclusions

Despite the intrinsic limits of IR methodology, results suggest how the implementation of an IR system dedicated to the emergency prehospital setting can act as a major driver for the development of a “learning organization” and improve both efficacy and safety of first aid care.
Poxvirus Countermeasures During an Emergency in the United States
Authors: Bice Steve , Yeskey Kevin
Published: July 2015

Although smallpox was eradicated worldwide by 1980, national security experts remain concerned that it could be used in a deliberate attack. The United States and other governments have given priority to developing and stockpiling vaccines and antivirals to protect their populations from the potential reintroduction of this deadly disease. Public health officials are also concerned about the spread of related zoonotic orthopoxviruses such as monkeypox and cowpox, against which smallpox vaccine provides protection. This report analyzes how medical countermeasures available in the US Strategic National Stockpile will be given priority and used in the event of an intentional or accidental release of smallpox in the United States. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:121-126)
Emerging Infectious Disease (EID) Communication During the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Outbreak: Literature Review (2009-2013) of the Methodology Used for EID Communication Analysis
Authors: Gesser-Edelsburg Anat , Stolero Nathan , Mordini Emilio , Billingsley Matthew , James James J. , Green Manfred S.
Published: July 2015

Objective

This year alone has seen outbreaks of epidemics such as Ebola, Chikungunya, and many other emerging infectious diseases (EIDs). We must look to the responses of recent outbreaks to help guide our strategies in current and future outbreaks or we risk repeating the same mistakes. The objective of this paper was to conduct a systematic literature review of the methodology used by studies that examined EID communication during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic outbreak through different communication channels or by analyzing contents and strategies.

Methods

This was a systematic review of the literature (n=61) studying risk communication strategies of H1N1 influenza, published between 2009 and 2013, and retrieved from searches of computerized databases, hand searches, and authoritative texts by use of specific search criteria. Searches were followed by review, categorization, and mixed qualitative and quantitative content analysis.

Results

Of 41 articles that used quantitative methods, most used surveys (n=35); some employed content analyses (n=4) and controlled trials (n=2). The 16 articles that employed qualitative methods relied on content analyses (n=10), semi-structured interviews (n=2) and focus groups (n=4). Four more articles used mixed-methods or nonstandard methods. Seven different topic categories were found: risk perception and effects on behaviors, framing the risk in the media, public concerns, trust, optimistic bias, uncertainty, and evaluating risk communication.

Conclusions

Up until 2013, studies tended to be descriptive and quantitative rather than discursive and qualitative and to focus on the role of the media as representing information and not as a medium for actual communication with the public. Several studies from 2012, and increasingly more in 2013, addressed issues of discourse and framing and the complexity of risk communication with the public. Formative evaluations that use recommendations from past research when designing communication campaigns from the first stages of crises are recommended. Research should employ diverse triangulation processes based on representatives from different stakeholders. Further studies should address the potential offered by social media to create dialogue with individuals and the public at large. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:199-206)
Preparedness for a Smallpox Pandemic in Japan: Public Health Perspectives
Authors: Nishiyama Yasumasa , Matsukuma Susumu , Matsumura Takuya , Kanatani Yasuhiro , Saito Tomoya
Published: July 2015

Smallpox is an acute, febrile, contagious disease caused by the Variola virus, which is a member of the Poxviridae family. Until the 1970s, smallpox had been a pandemic disease for more than 3000 years, endemic in tropical and developing areas and periodically epidemic worldwide. The World Health Organization declared smallpox to be completely eradicated in 1980 as the result of global vaccination efforts. At that time, all routine vaccination programs were terminated, given the success of this monumental eradication. Although smallpox remains fully eradicated, uncertainty exists regarding the possibility of recurrent smallpox outbreaks. At the end of the Cold War, concerns regarding unstable international security and the feasibility of terrorism with weapons of mass destruction have been highlighted. The potential threat of intentional release of smallpox has forced regional health authorities to reconsider their political landscape and create preparedness plans to protect the community in the event of biological attacks. Here we present current countermeasures to this biological threat in Japan and discuss methods for strengthening public health preparedness both domestically and internationally. These methods include infection control, vaccination policy, and international partnerships to help deter or contain a contagious smallpox pandemic. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:220-223)
The Impact of a National Earthquake Campaign on Public Preparedness: 2011 Campaign in Israel as a Case Study
Authors: Shenhar Gilead , Radomislensky Irina , Rozenfeld Michael , Peleg Kobi
Published: July 2015

Objective

The most effective way to reduce the number of expected victims and amount of damage from earthquakes is by effective preparedness. The Israeli government launched a national campaign to change its citizens’ behavior. This study assessed the effectiveness of the campaign on the Israeli population.

Methods

The survey was conducted 2 weeks after the campaign ended. It was based on a randomly selected representative sample of the adult Israeli population.

Results

Of the 42% of the Israeli public exposed to the campaign, 37% estimated that a strong earthquake might occur in Israel during the coming years. Only 23% of those who were exposed to the campaign (9% of the Israeli public) said that the campaign improved their awareness; 76% reported that after their exposure to the campaign they did nothing to prepare. However, exposure to the campaign significantly increased the knowledge of dealing with earthquakes (30% vs 21% among those not exposed).

Conclusions

Although the campaign increased knowledge and awareness, it did not achieve the goal of improving public preparedness. The campaign was not effective by itself, and it should be part of a multiyear activity. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:138-144)
The Hippo transducers TAZ and YAP in breast cancer: oncogenic activities and clinical implications
Authors: Maugeri-Saccà Marcello , Barba Maddalena , Pizzuti Laura , Vici Patrizia , Di Lauro Luigi , Dattilo Rosanna , Vitale Ilio , Bartucci Monica , Mottolese Marcella , De Maria Ruggero
Published: July 2015

The Hippo signalling is emerging as a tumour suppressor pathway whose function is regulated by an intricate network of intracellular and extracellular cues. Defects in the signal cascade lead to the activation of the Hippo transducers TAZ and YAP. Compelling preclinical evidence showed that TAZ/YAP are often aberrantly engaged in breast cancer (BC), where their hyperactivation culminates into a variety of tumour-promoting functions such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, cancer stem cell generation and therapeutic resistance. Having acquired a more thorough understanding in the biology of TAZ/YAP, and the molecular outputs they elicit, has prompted a first wave of exploratory, clinically-focused analyses aimed at providing initial hints on the prognostic/predictive significance of their expression. In this review, we discuss oncogenic activities linked with TAZ/YAP in BC, and we propose clinical strategies for investigating their role as biomarkers in the clinical setting. Finally, we address the therapeutic potential of TAZ/YAP targeting and the modalities that, in our opinion, should be pursued in order to further study the biological and clinical consequences of their inhibition.
Implementing a Multifaceted Intervention to Decrease Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections in SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services Company) Intensive Care Units: The Abu Dhabi Experience
Authors: Latif Asad , Kelly Bernadette , Edrees Hanan , Kent Paula S. , Weaver Sallie J. , Jovanovic Branislava , Attallah Hadeel , de Grouchy Kristin K. , Al-Obaidli Ali , Goeschel Christine A. , Berenholtz Sean M.
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether implementation of a multifaceted intervention would significantly reduce the incidence of central line–associated bloodstream infections.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort collaborative.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Intensive care units of the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company hospitals in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

INTERVENTIONS

A bundled intervention consisting of 3 components was implemented as part of the program. It consisted of a multifaceted approach that targeted clinician use of evidence-based infection prevention recommendations, tools that supported the identification of local barriers to these practices, and implementation ideas to help ensure patients received the practices. Comprehensive unit-based safety teams were created to improve safety culture and teamwork. Finally, the measurement and feedback of monthly infection rate data to safety teams, senior leaders, and staff in participating intensive care units was encouraged. The main outcome measure was the quarterly rate of central line–associated bloodstream infections.

RESULTS

Eighteen intensive care units from 7 hospitals in Abu Dhabi implemented the program and achieved an overall 38% reduction in their central line–associated bloodstream infection rate, adjusted at the hospital and unit level. The number of units with a quarterly central line–associated bloodstream infection rate of less than 1 infection per 1,000 catheter-days increased by almost 40% between the baseline and postintervention periods.

CONCLUSION

A significant reduction in the global morbidity and mortality associated with central line–associated bloodstream infections is possible across intensive care units in disparate settings using a multifaceted intervention.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(7):816–822
Whole-Genome Sequencing for Outbreak Investigations of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Time for Routine Practice?
Authors: Azarian Taj , Cook Robert L. , Johnson Judith A. , Guzman Nilmarie , McCarter Yvette S. , Gomez Noel , Rathore Mobeen H. , Morris J. Glenn , Salemi Marco
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are at increased risk for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) acquisition. Outbreaks may be difficult to identify due in part to limitations in current molecular genotyping available in clinical practice. Comparison of genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may identify epidemiologically distinct isolates among a population sample that appears homogenous when evaluated using conventional typing methods.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate a putative MRSA outbreak in a NICU utilizing whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis to identify recent transmission events.

DESIGN

Clinical and surveillance specimens collected during clinical care and outbreak investigation.

PATIENTS

A total of 17 neonates hospitalized in a 43-bed level III NICU in northeastern Florida from December 2010 to October 2011 were included in this study.

METHODS

We assessed epidemiological data in conjunction with 4 typing methods: antibiograms, PFGE, spa types, and phylogenetic analysis of genome-wide SNPs.

RESULTS

Among the 17 type USA300 isolates, 4 different spa types were identified using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Phylogenetic analysis identified 5 infants as belonging to 2 clusters of epidemiologically linked cases and excluded 10 unlinked cases from putative transmission events. The availability of these results during the initial investigation would have improved infection control interventions.

CONCLUSION

Whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis are invaluable tools for epidemic investigation; they identify transmission events and exclude cases mistakenly implicated by traditional typing methods. When routinely applied to surveillance and investigation in the clinical setting, this approach may provide actionable intelligence for measured, appropriate, and effective interventions.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(7):777–785