bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The vagus nerve, recurrent laryngeal nerve, and external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve have unique latencies allowing for intraoperative documentation of intact neural function during thyroid surgery
Authors: Sritharan Niranjan , Chase Meghan , Kamani Dipti , Randolph Madeline , Randolph Gregory W.
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To define normative amplitude and latency of vagus, recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), and external branch of superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) and to apply them to postoperative neural function documentation. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report electrophysiologic characteristics of all three nerves in a consecutive patient series.

Study Design

Prospective.

Methods

Quantitative analysis of evoked waveform data was performed on both sides in consecutive patients undergoing thyroid surgery by a single surgeon. Mean values, standard error of mean, and standard deviation were calculated for latency (in milliseconds) and amplitude (in microvolts) of the vagus nerves, RLN, and EBSLN. Pre‐ and postoperative vocal cord function was normal in all patients.

Results

Normative latency analysis showed mean right and left vagal latency of 5.47 ms (±0.73) and 8.14 ms (±0.86), respectively (P < .0001). Pooled RLN latency was 3.96 ms (±0.69), and pooled EBSLN latency was 3.56 ms (±0.49), both significantly shorter than vagal latencies (P < .0001). There was no association between amplitude and latency parameters and tumor‐size (> or <5 cm), body mass index (> or <25), age (> or <50 years), gender, or degree of neural dissection.

Conclusions

The unique right vagus, left vagus, and RLN latencies are characteristic of the individual nerves and allow identification (through the characteristic waveform latency) of an intact left or right vagus/RLN system. Timed recording of vagal waveform after thyroid lobectomy consequently documents intact ipsilateral vagal‐RLN neural circuit and may be placed into the medical record as electrophysiologic documentation of existence of postresection complete neural integrity.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:E84–E89, 2015
Reconstruction of mandibular defects using the scapular tip free flap
Authors: Bianchi Bernardo , Ferri Andrea , Ferrari Silvano , Copelli Chiara , Perlangeli Giuseppe , Leporati Massimiliano , Ferri Teore , Sesenna Enrico
Published: June 2014

Purpose

Purpose of the article is to present the use of the scapular tip free flap (STFF) for the reconstruction of oromandibular defects.

Patients

Eleven patients who underwent oromandibular reconstruction with STFF were retrospectively evaluated with regards to form and function assessing mouth opening, dietary intake, and cosmetic outcome. Donor site morbidity was evaluated using the Constant–Murley test for the shoulder unit.

Results

Follow‐up ranged from 6 to 35 months (mean 20.6 months). Good or excellent results in mouth opening and cosmesis were achieved in eight patients, speech was assessed as intelligible or normal in all but one patient and mean ambulation time after surgery was 2.5 days. Results of Constant score ranged from 45 to 70 (mean 60.6), and the main limitation encountered was elevation of the arm above the head, which was seen in all but one patient confirming the low impact of the technique on the shoulder system.

Conclusion

Low morbidity, early ambulation time, possibility of simultaneous harvesting with the tumor resection, large musculocutaneous paddles in the chimeric version of the flap are advantages of the STFF and makes it a good choice in elderly patients, when other bone containing free flaps are not indicated because of the related morbidity, when other flaps are not available or when wide composite defects are approached. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:101–106, 2015.
Joint estimation of chemical shift and quantitative susceptibility mapping (chemical QSM)
Authors: Dimov Alexey V. , Liu Tian , Spincemaille Pascal , Ecanow Jacob S. , Tan Huan , Edelman Robert R. , Wang Yi
Published: June 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to address the unsolved problem of quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) of tissue with fat where both fat and susceptibility change the MR signal phase.

Theory and Methods

The chemical shift of fat was treated as an additional unknown and was estimated jointly with susceptibility to provide the best data fitting using an automated and iterative algorithm. A simplified susceptibility model was used to calculate an updated value of the chemical shift based on the local magnetic field in each iteration. Numerical simulation, phantom experiments and in vivo imaging were performed. Artifacts were assessed by measuring the susceptibility variance in uniform regions. Accuracy was assessed by comparison with ground truth in simulation, and using a susceptibility matching approach in phantom.

Results

Using the proposed method, artifacts on the QSM image were markedly suppressed in all tested datasets compared with results generated using fixed chemical shifts. Accuracy of the estimated susceptibility was also improved in numerical simulation and phantom experiments.

Conclusion

A joint estimation of fat content and magnetic susceptibility using an iterative chemical shift update was shown to improve image quality and accuracy on QSM images. Magn Reson Med 73:2100–2110, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of family, friend and coworker social support and social undermining on weight gain prevention among adults
Authors: Wang Monica L. , Pbert Lori , Lemon Stephenie C.
Published: June 2014

Objective

Examine longitudinal associations between sources of social support and social undermining for healthy eating and physical activity and weight change.

Methods

Data are from 633 employed adults participating in a cluster‐randomized multilevel weight gain prevention intervention. Primary predictors included social support and social undermining for two types of behaviors (healthy eating and physical activity) from three sources (family, friends, and coworkers) obtained via self‐administered surveys. The primary outcome (weight in kg) was measured by trained staff. Data were collected at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months. Linear multivariable models examined the association of support and social undermining with weight over time, adjusting for intervention status, time, gender, age, education, and clustering of individuals within schools.

Results

Adjusting for all primary predictors and covariates, friend support for healthy eating (β = −0.15), coworker support for healthy eating (β = −0.11), and family support for physical activity (β = −0.032) were associated with weight reduction at 24 months (P‐values<0.05). Family social undermining for healthy eating was associated with weight gain at 24 months (β = 0.12;P = 0.0019).

Conclusions

Among adult employees, friend and coworker support for healthy eating and family support for physical activity predicted improved weight management. Interventions that help adults navigate family social undermining of healthy eating are warranted.
Monomer sequencing and microstructural analysis on polymers of dimethyl norbornene dicarboxylate and 7‐oxanorbornene dicarboxylic derivatives employing ruthenium catalysts by ring‐opening metathesis polymerization
Authors: Tallon Michael A. , Rogan Yulia , Marie Bilal , Clark Raymond , Musa Osama M. , Khosravi Ezat
Published: June 2014

The physiochemical properties, comonomer sequencing, and regiospecificity of the linkages between monomeric units within homo/copolymers based on 5,6‐di‐substituted norbornene and 7‐oxanorbornene type monomers by ring‐opening metathesis polymerization are reported and correlated to their primary and secondary structural elements. In general, first‐generation Grubbs‐I1 ruthenium catalyst generates polymers with high trans content that exhibits an extended secondary structure with exo,exo substituents, whereas second‐generation Grubbs‐I2 catalyst produces polymers with high cis content that forms tight turns, resulting in a compact structure. Furthermore, I2‐produced polymers exhibit a high level of alternating cis–trans double bonds along their polymeric backbone. In stark contrast, both first‐ and second‐generation Grubbs catalysts display complete reversal in cis/trans selectivity when an oxygen atom is in position‐7 of the norbornene‐ring along with mono‐endo‐substitution in position‐5 or 6, and hence highlighting the importance of stereoelectronic complexation by the catalyst with the next incoming monomer for cis/trans selectivity. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 2477–2501
One pot synthesis and gelation studies of amphiphilic triblock polyurethanes
Authors: Mondal Tathagata , Ghosh Suhrit
Published: June 2014

This article shows a generalized synthetic strategy to make amphiphilic ABA type triblock polyurethane (PU) in a SINGLE reaction pot. This is achieved by condensation polymerization between a hydrophobic diol and a di‐isocyanate in the presence of a polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether (Mw = 2000 or 5000 g mol−1) as mono‐functional impurity. Using different ratios of the three reactants with a fixed parameter such that the total concentration of –OH = isocyanate, a series of PUs are produced with both the ends capped with PEG. These polymers show facile gelation ability in solvents like dimethyl formamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, and dimethyl acetamide by H‐bonding interaction among the urethane groups. A comprehensive structure–property relationship study reveals importance of the right balance between the weight fractions of the soft and hard segments in self‐assembly and efficient gelation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 2502–2508
Proteomics of citrullination in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Fert‐Bober Justyna , Sokolove Jeremy
Published: June 2014

Citrullination is an enzymatic posttranslational modification (PTM), which has become a topic of recent research due to its involvement in various physiologic and pathologic processes. This review will focus primarily on the cardiovascular pathology associated to date with citrullination, including myocardial citrullination as well as the potential role of citrullination in atherosclerosis as a driver inflammation, especially in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There is extensive citrullination within normal and RA myocardium as well as the atherosclerotic plaque; and increased levels of antibodies to citrullinated proteins have been associated with increased cardiovascular burden in patients with RA. Given robust citrullination in both RA as well as non‐RA patients, there also exists the potential for protein citrullination to contribute to cardiovascular pathology in the general population. However, to investigate this possibility will require development of improved biochemical and proteomic tools for the study of protein citrullination. The remainder of this review will discuss current and developing methodologies to study protein citrullination and discuss their applicability for the analysis of complex samples. The ability to identify and quantify citrullinated protein is a key to understanding the role of this PTM. Methodologies and limitations of current technology for the identification of citrullination are discussed.
Characterization of human plasma proteome dynamics using deuterium oxide
Authors: Wang Ding , Liem David A. , Lau Edward , Ng Dominic C. M. , Bleakley Brian J. , Cadeiras Martin , Deng Mario C. , Lam Maggie P. Y. , Ping Peipei
Published: June 2014

Purpose

High‐throughput quantification of human protein turnover via in vivo administration of deuterium oxide (2H2O) is a powerful new approach to examine potential disease mechanisms. Its immediate clinical translation is contingent upon characterizations of the safety and hemodynamic effects of in vivo administration of 2H2O to human subjects.

Experimental design

We recruited ten healthy human subjects with a broad demographic variety to evaluate the safety, feasibility, efficacy, and reproducibility of 2H2O intake for studying protein dynamics. We designed a protocol where each subject orally consumed weight‐adjusted doses of 70% 2H2O daily for 14 days to enrich body water and proteins with deuterium. Plasma proteome dynamics was measured using a high‐resolution MS method we recently developed.

Results

This protocol was successfully applied in ten human subjects to characterize the endogenous turnover rates of 542 human plasma proteins, the largest such human dataset to‐date. Throughout the study, we did not detect physiological effects or signs of discomfort from 2H2O consumption.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Our investigation supports the utility of a 2H2O intake protocol that is safe, accessible, and effective for clinical investigations of large‐scale human protein turnover dynamics. This workflow shows promising clinical translational value for examining plasma protein dynamics in human diseases.
Scattering of fast atoms and ions from surfaces under channeling conditions
Authors: Winter Helmut
Published: June 2014

Scattering of fast atoms and ions from surfaces under glancing angles of incidence proceeds in the regime of ‘surface channeling’ where projectiles are steered in terms of small angle collisions by atoms of the topmost layer of the surface. Collisions with the solid under these conditions are characterized by defined trajectories for the ensemble of scattered projectiles that is the basis for a detailed model description of the interaction mechanisms. An overview will be presented concerning the different aspects and techniques that demonstrate the substantial potential of surface channeling for studies on the ion–surface interactions and on the structure of surfaces. As examples will be discussed, studies on charge transfer, electron emission phenomena, interactions with insulators, investigation of growth, and structure of ultrathin films, as well as the recently discovered fast atom diffraction. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spline approximations to conditional Archimedean copula
Authors: Lambert Philippe
Published: June 2014

We propose a flexible copula model to describe changes with a covariate in the dependence structure of (conditionally exchangeable) random variables. The starting point is a spline approximation to the generator of an Archimedean copula. Changes in the dependence structure with a covariate x are modelled by flexible regression of the spline coefficients on x. The performances and properties of the spline estimate of the reference generator and the abilities of these conditional models to approximate conditional copulas are studied through extensive simulations. Inference is made using Bayesian arguments with posterior distributions explored using importance sampling or adaptive Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms. The modelling strategy is illustrated with the analysis of bivariate growth curve data. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Talking Back: Shifting the Discourse of Deficit to a Pedagogy of Cultural Wealth of International Instructors in US Classrooms
Authors: Yep Gust A.
Published: June 2014

Using a combination of critical theory, poststructuralism, and critical pedagogy, this chapter calls for a shift in the ways we conceive, imagine, and represent international instructors in US classrooms. More specifically, it highlights the importance of the voices of international instructors themselves, proposes a shift from the current discourse of deficit to one of cultural wealth, and offers some directions for future research in this area.
Maximum wind power generation in a power system imposed by system inertia and primary reserve requirements
Authors: Fernandez‐Bernal F. , Egido I. , Lobato E.
Published: June 2014

Although the technology to simulate inertia or to provide primary control in wind power generators is mature, most of them are a source of power with neither inertia nor primary reserve provision mainly because it means wind spilling. Therefore, an increasing wind power penetration means a reduction in the inertia of the system and of the primary reserve due to the substitution of conventional generation. In this paper, the maximum wind power penetration focusing on system inertia and primary reserve value is assessed. The Spanish power system is used as an example for the calculation of these values. For this purpose, real Spanish scenario data are used. Results will show that high penetrations of wind power can be achieved without risking adequate values of primary reserve or inertia of the power system even if wind power does not contribute to these items. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors Shaping Initial Decision-Making to Self-test Amongst Cohabiting Couples in Urban Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Kumwenda Moses , Munthali Alister , Phiri Mackwellings , Mwale Daniel , Gutteberg Tore , MacPherson Eleanor , Theobald Sally , Corbett Liz , Desmond Nicola
Published: June 2014

In sub-Saharan Africa, most new HIV infections occur in stable relationships, making couples testing an important intervention for HIV prevention. We explored factors shaping the decision-making of cohabiting couples who opted to self-test in Blantyre, Malawi. Thirty-four self-tested participants (17 couples) were interviewed. Motivators for HIV self-testing (HIVST) emerged at three main levels. Individual motivations included perceived benefits of access to treatment, and self-checking of serostatus in the hope of having been cured by prolonged treatment or faith-healing. HIVST was considered convenient, confidential, reassuring and an enabling new way to test with one’s partner. Partnership motivations included both positive (mutual encouragement) and negative (suspected infidelity) aspects. For women, long-term health and togetherness were important goals that reinforced motivations for couples testing, whereas men often needed persuasion despite finding HIVST more flexible and less onerous than facility-based testing. Internal conflict prompted some partners to use HIVST as a way of disclosing their previously concealed HIV positive serostatus. Thus, the implementation of community-based HIVST should acknowledge and appropriately respond to decision-making processes within couples, which are shaped by gender roles and relationship dynamics.
Comparison of Hand Emergency Triage before and after Specialty Templates (2007 vs. 2012)
Authors: Coady-Fariborzian Loretta , McGreane Amy
Published: June 2014

Background

Emergency hand service is a national problem both for civilian and veteran patients. The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health system began coordinating emergency hand coverage within the plastic surgery service in 2008. Consult templates were designed to facilitate access to the appropriate service. Trainees were taken out of transfer decisions. Clinic templates were designed to fast track urgent patients to 8 a.m. appointments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of our templates and triage system.

Methods

All consults completed by the plastic surgery service were reviewed retrospectively. Emergent and urgent hand consults were identified. Time from consult submission to the patient being seen by the plastic surgery provider was recorded. Time frames were categorized as same day, next day, within 2 days, less than or equal to 7 days, and greater than 7 days. Type of emergency (trauma or infection) and treatment plan were noted.

Results

There were 1,090 consults in 2007 and 1,868 consults in 2012 that were completed by the plastic surgery service. We found the number of urgent and emergent hand consults increased by a factor of 6 (49 to 294). Furthermore, 16.3 % (8/49) of patients were seen greater than 1 week after consult submission in 2007, compared with 8.1 % (24/294) of patients in 2012. Only one patient from 2007 and two patients from 2012 went to the OR after regular operating room hours.

Conclusion

A well-coordinated effort to speed access for hand emergencies can minimize expenses and improve quality of care
Quantitative 3-Dimensional CT Analyses of Fractures of the Middle Phalanx Base
Authors: Janssen Stein J. , ter Meulen Dirk P. , Hageman Michiel G. J. S. , Earp Brandon E. , Ring David
Published: June 2014

Background

Quantitative 3-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) analyses can provide a more detailed understanding of fracture morphology. For fracture-dislocation of the proximal interphalangeal joint, the extent of fragmentation of the volar lip of the middle phalanx—a factor that might influence treatment—is not always apparent from radiographs. We hypothesized that there is no correlation between number of fracture fragments and the percentage of articular surface area involved in intra-articular fractures of the base of the middle phalanx using quantitative 3DCT analyses.

Methods

We used 13 computed tomography scans with a slice thickness of 1.25 mm or less to create 3-dimensional models of 15 intra-articular fractures of the base of the middle phalanx in 13 patients. We resized 3-dimensional models of a non-fractured middle phalanx of the same hand to fit the fractured middle phalanx in order to approximate the size and shape of the fractured middle phalanx in its pre-injury state. We created a heatmap to demonstrate the location of the fractured articular surface.

Results

With the number of scans available, we did not find a significant correlation between the percentage of articular surface area involved and the number of fracture fragments. The median percentage of articular surface area involved was 46 % (range, 21–90 %). The heatmap demonstrated that the radio-volar side of the articular surface seems to be more involved than the ulnar-volar side in intra-articular fractures of the base of the middle phalanx.

Conclusion

Quantitative 3DCT analysis of fracture fragments provides useful information that could facilitate surgery and analysis of complex fractures of the base of the middle phalanx. Level of Evidence: IV, Basic Science Study, Anatomic Study, Imaging.
Effect of Amino Acids on Micellization, Surface Activity and Micellar Properties of Nonionic Surfactant Hexadecyl Alcohol Ethoxylate (25EO) in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Harutyunyan Lusine R.
Published: June 2014

The effects of amino acids (dl‐glycine, dl‐alanine, dl‐phenylalanine, dl‐serine, l‐leucine, l‐aspartic acid, l‐lysine) on the micellization, surface activity, viscometric and aggregation properties of hexadecyl alcohol polyethoxylate (25EO) in aqueous solution were studied. The critical micelle concentration and free energy of micellization were evaluated and discussed. The surface excess concentration, the minimum area per molecule, the surface pressure at the critical micelle concentration and the standard free energy of adsorption were obtained from surface activity studies. On the basis of the determination of the relative viscosities on concentration, the viscosity B‐coefficients of the Jones–Dole semiempirical equation were calculated for the premicellar and postmicellar regions. The method of fluorescence quenching was used for determination of the micellar aggregation number of hexadecyl alcohol polyethoxylate (25EO) in aqueous solution in the presence of amino acids. It was found that among studied amino acids serine shows behavior that is different from that of the other neutral amino acids.
Disseminated Neoplasia in the Soft‐Shell Clam Mya arenaria: Membrane Lipid Composition and Functional Parameters of Circulating Cells
Authors: Le Grand Fabienne , Soudant Philippe , Siah Ahmed , Tremblay Réjean , Marty Yanic , Kraffe Edouard
Published: June 2014

In a previous study we compared lipid composition and functional parameters of circulating cells from Cerastoderma edule affected or not by disseminated neoplasia (neoplastic cells vs hemocytes) (Le Grand et al. Chem Phys Lipids 167:9–20 2013). Neoplastic cells presented morpho‐functional modifications concomitant to striking membrane lipid alterations: the proportion of particular plasmalogen molecular species was drastically decreased. We wanted to test whether this pattern was representative of bivalve neoplastic cells. For the purpose, a similar study was conducted on another bivalve species affected by disseminated neoplasia, the soft‐shell clam (Mya arenaria). Although total reactive oxygen species production was unaffected, M. arenaria neoplastic cells presented some functional alterations: phagocytosis activity was reduced by 33 %. However, lipid compositions were not drastically altered. Particularly, sterol and plasmalogen levels did not differ between both cell types (about 43 % of membrane lipids and 35 % of phospholipids, respectively in hemocytes and neoplastic cells). This could be related to the fact that disseminated neoplasia was not related to hemolymph cell proliferation in M. arenaria (0.9 ± 0.2 106cell mL−1, considering both healthy and neoplastic clams, n = 6). Nevertheless this study highlighted minor but specific alterations of membrane lipid composition in M. arenaria neoplastic cells. The only phospholipid subclass in which the fatty acid profile strongly differed between both cell types was serine plasmalogen (PlsSer), with neoplastic cells presenting lower specific enrichment of 20:1n‐11 in PlsSer. Such specific alteration of membrane lipid composition strengthened the assumption of an implication of key plasmalogen molecular species in this leukemia‐like disease in bivalves.
A Novel Assay of DGAT Activity Based on High Temperature GC/MS of Triacylglycerol
Authors: Greer Michael S. , Zhou Ting , Weselake Randall J.
Published: June 2014

Diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) catalyzes the final step in the acyl‐CoA‐dependent biosynthesis of triacylglycerol (TAG), a high‐energy compound composed of three fatty acids esterified to a glycerol backbone. In vitro DGAT assays, which are usually conducted with radiolabeled substrate using microsomal fractions, have been useful in identifying compounds and genetic modifications that affect DGAT activity. Here, we describe a high‐temperature gas chromatography (GC)/mass spectrometry (MS)‐based method for monitoring molecular species of TAG produced by the catalytic action of microsomal DGAT. This method circumvents the need for radiolabeled or modified substrates, and only requires a simple lipid extraction prior to GC. The utility of the method is demonstrated using a recombinant type‐1 Brassica napus DGAT produced in a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisae that is deficient in TAG synthesis. The GC/MS‐based assay of DGAT activity was strongly correlated with the typical in vitro assay of the enzyme using [1‐14C] acyl‐CoA as an acyl donor. In addition to determining DGAT activity, the method is also useful for determining substrate specificity and selectivity properties of the enzyme.
Spectrum of operative childhood intra-articular shoulder pathology
Authors: Edmonds Eric W. , Roocroft Joanna H. , Parikh Shital N.
Published: June 2014

Purpose

With increased sports participation and medical community awareness, there appears to be an increase in pediatric musculoskeletal injuries. Our purpose was to identify the intra-articular injury pattern seen within the pediatric shoulder.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed at two tertiary-care children's hospitals between 2008 and 2011 on all patients who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and subsequent shoulder arthroscopy. Exclusion criteria included: girls >14 years old and boys >16 years old. Demographics, MRI and arthroscopic findings were recorded. Labral pathology was grouped: Zone I (Bankart lesions, 3–6 o'clock for right shoulder), Zone II (posterior labral lesions, 6–11 o'clock), Zone III (SLAP lesions, 11–1 o'clock), and Zone IV (anatomic variants, 1–3 o'clock).

Results

One hundred and fifteen children met criteria, mean age 14.4 years (range 8–16). There were 24 girls and 91 boys, with 70 right shoulders. Of 108 children, labral pathology involved: 72 Zone I (16 isolated anterior), 56 Zone II (15 isolated posterior), 38 Zone III (four isolated superior), and three had an isolated Buford complex. Seventy had more than one labral zone injured, and 31 (30 %) had more than two zones injured. Non-labral pathology included partial rotator cuff tears and humeral avulsions of the glenohumeral ligament.

Conclusion

With 94 % of intra-articular pathology being labral tears, the distribution of proportion in children differs from adults; moreover, 23 % involved only the posterior or posterosuperior labrum. Treating surgeons should be prepared to find anterior tears extending beyond the zone of a classic Bankart lesion and an association with C rotator cuff tears.
Imprinting methylation errors in ART
Authors: Hiura Hitoshi , Okae Hiroaki , Chiba Hatsune , Miyauchi Naoko , Sato Fumi , Sato Akiko , Arima Takahiro
Published: June 2014

There has been an increase in incidence reports of rare imprinting disorders associated with assisted reproductive technology (ART). ART, including in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injections, is an important treatment for infertile people of reproductive age and increasingly produces children. The identification of epigenetic changes at imprinted loci in ART infants has led to the suggestion that ART techniques themselves may predispose embryos to acquire imprinting errors and diseases. In this review, we note that the particular steps of ART may be prone to induction of imprinting methylation errors during gametogenesis, fertilization and early embryonic development. In addition, we explain imprint‐associated diseases and their causes. Moreover, from a Japanese nationwide epidemiological study of imprint‐associated diseases, we determine their associations with ART. Epigenetic studies will be required to understand the pathogenesis, ART‐related risk factor(s) and what precautions can be taken to prevent the occurrence of input methylation errors. We hope that the constitution of children born after each ART procedure will reveal the safest and most ethical approach to use, which will be invaluable for the future development of standard ART.
Resolving confusions about jarrah dieback - don’t forget the plants
Authors: Davison E. M.
Published: June 2014

The name jarrah dieback has been used for two different disorders, leading to considerable confusion. It was coined in the 1940s to describe the sudden death of groups of jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) trees in south western Western Australia, which occurred on poorly drained sites, following exceptionally heavy rainfall. In the 1960s these sites were shown to be infested by Phytophthora cinnamomi and jarrah deaths were attributed to it, even though it was only isolated from 5 % of sampled trees. Also the definition of jarrah dieback was expanded to include deaths of many other plants on infested sites, from which P. cinnamomi was more readily isolated. Jarrah trees die from severe water deficiency, indicating problems with water conduction through roots. Xylem vessel diameters vary along roots, being narrow at the root collar, while distally they are larger, providing water storage. Jarrah transpires vigorously during summer, accessing water at depth on sites with deep soil, but being more dependent on internally stored water when root systems are shallower. Following waterlogging, sapwood vessels become blocked with tyloses, reducing both conductivity and potential water storage; such trees may have insufficient water reserves for summer survival. In jarrah P. cinnamomi is unlikely to cause water deficiency because sapwood invasion is rapidly contained in healthy roots. Recent investigations into P. cinnamomi invasion and host responses in other plants show that it can potentially cause a vascular wilt in Banksia spp. and chronic, symptomless infections in herbaceous plants. Susceptibility to waterlogging damage, and/or mortality resulting from infection by P. cinnamomi can only be clarified by detailed knowledge of the hosts and their vulnerabilities. This is essential for making diagnoses, devising management strategies, and avoiding the confusions of the past.
Are Movers More Religious than Stayers? Religiosity of European Majority, Turks in Europe and Turkey
Authors: Guveli Ayse
Published: June 2014

Turks, most of them Islamic, are establishing themselves in European countries. Studies mostly compare migrant religiosity to other migrants and to majority population in the destination societies. We add those left behind in origin country to this comparison. Using the unique possibility offered by the European Social Surveys, this study compares subjective, individual, and communal religiosity of first and second generation-Turkish origin Europeans with non-migrants in Turkey and European natives in the destination societies. Results show that the mechanisms of religiosity differ for migrants and second generation. Religion fuels the creation of ethno-religious space in the new social environment and intensifies subjective and communal manifestation of piety. However, it is also subject to the secularizing impact of the receiving society in individual religious practise. Second-generation Europeans pray less in their personal sphere but consider themselves more religious than and attend religious meetings as often as non-migrants in Turkey. European natives score much lower on all three dimensions of religiosity than first and second-generation Turkish origin Europeans.
Times change: the NVMO journal going from Dutch to English and from paper to electronics
Authors: Cohen-Schotanus Janke
Published: June 2014

None
Hydrodynamic effect on the superlubricity of phosphoric acid between ceramic and sapphire
Authors: Deng Mingming , Zhang Chenhui , Li Jinjin , Ma Liran , Luo Jianbin
Published: June 2014

In this work, a super-low friction coefficient of 0.003 was found between a silicon nitride ball and a sapphire plate lubricated by phosphoric acid solution. The wear mainly occurred in the running-in period and disappeared after superlubricity was achieved. The friction coefficient was effectively reduced from 0.3 to 0.003 at a constant speed of 0.076 m/s, accompanied by a 12-nm-thickness film. The lubrication regime was indicated to change from boundary lubrication in the running-in period to elastohydrodynamic lubrication in the superlubricity period, which is also supported by the results of the friction coefficient versus sliding speed. In addition, the experimental results showed good agreement with theoretical calculations based on the elastohydrodynamic lubrication theory, suggesting a significant hydrodynamic effect of phosphoric acid on superlubricity.
Prognostic factors of primary fallopian tube cancer in a single institute in Taiwan
Authors: Horng Huann‐Cheng , Teng Sen‐Wen , Lai Chiung‐Ru , Chang Wen‐Hsu , Chang Yen‐Hou , Yen Ming‐Shyen , Wang Peng‐Hui Peter
Published: June 2014

Objective

To improve the understanding of primary fallopian tube carcinoma (PFTC) through an analysis of possible clinical and pathologic determinants of prognosis.

Methods

A retrospective review of the database of a tertiary hospital in Taiwan for 1978–2007 was conducted to identify patients with a diagnosis of PFTC and to evaluate the clinicopathologic features associated with PFTC outcome.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients (mean age 62.5 years) had a diagnosis of PFTC. Stage III/IV disease (55%) and poorly differentiated tumors (52%) were most common. The median follow‐up was 93 months (range, 11–333 months). The 5‐year disease‐free survival rate was 59%, and the overall survival rate was 64%. Factors important in disease‐free and overall survival in univariate analysis included the presence of pelvic and/or para‐aortic lymph node metastases, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, high preoperative carbohydrate antigen 125 serum level, completion of optimal debulking surgery, and the use of paclitaxel‐based chemotherapy; however, only patients with optimal cytoreduction had a decreased hazard of recurrence (hazard ratio [HR] 0.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01–0.23) and mortality (HR 0.08; 95% CI, 0.02–0.31) in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Advanced tumor stage, in particular the presence of lymph node metastases, worsened the prognosis of patients with PFTC. However, optimal debulking surgery significantly improved the prognosis, emphasizing the importance of the treatment strategy.
A multifaceted intervention to increase prophylactic oxytocin use during the third stage of labor and to reduce routine episiotomies in Nicaragua
Authors: García‐Elorrio Ezequiel , Aleman Alicia , Cafferata Maria L. , Colomar Mercedes , Tomasso Giselle , Lacayo Yann , Espinoza Henry , Villadiego Shirley , Engelbrecht Susheela , Althabe Fernando
Published: June 2014

Objective

To assess the effect of a multifaceted intervention among skilled birth attendants on the use of oxytocin during the third stage of labor, the active management of the third stage of labor (AMTSL), and the rate of routine episiotomy during vaginal births in two health districts in Nicaragua.

Methods

An uncontrolled before‐and‐after study design was used. The rates of oxytocin use in the third stage of labor, AMTSL, and episiotomy were measured for vaginal births occurring in eight hospitals and health centers during 2011–2012, before and after implementation of a multifaceted facility‐based intervention. The intervention involved the use of opinion leaders, interactive workshops to develop and implement evidence‐based guidelines, academic detailing, the use of reminders, and feedback on the rates of oxytocin use and episiotomy.

Results

Oxytocin use during the third stage of labor increased significantly from 95.3% to 97.4% (P = 0.003). The episiotomy rate dropped significantly from 31.2% to 21.2% overall, and from 59.6% to 40.5% in primiparous women (P < 0.001 for both comparisons).

Conclusion

The multifaceted intervention improved the targeted care practices during childbirth. However, a further decrease in the routine use of episiotomy would be desirable.
A comparison of reproductive outcomes following hysteroscopic management versus dilatation and curettage of retained products of conception
Authors: Ben‐Ami Ido , Melcer Yaakov , Smorgick Noam , Schneider David , Pansky Moty , Halperin Reuvit
Published: June 2014

Objective

To compare the reproductive outcome of women who underwent blind dilatation and curettage (D&C) with those who underwent hysteroscopic resection of pathologically confirmed retained products of conception (RPOC).

Methods

Medical records of women who underwent either D&C or hysteroscopic resection of RPOC at Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Israel, between 2000 and 2010 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

A total of 177 women with pathologically confirmed RPOC underwent either D&C (n = 94, 53.1%) or hysteroscopy (n = 83, 46.9%). Mean time to conception was significantly shorter after hysteroscopy than after D&C (7.4 ± 7 vs 12.9 ± 16.8 months, P = 0.037). Rate of occurrence of a newly diagnosed infertility problem was significantly higher following D&C than hysteroscopy (23 [24.5%] vs 10 [12.0%]; P = 0.034). Etiology of the new problem was mechanical, including tubal occlusion and intrauterine adhesions. Logistic regression comparing both methods revealed that hysteroscopic resection was associated with a significant reduction in the occurrence of a new infertility problem compared with D&C (OR 0.42; 95% CI, 0.18–0.96, P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Hysteroscopic removal of RPOC is associated with a shorter mean time to further conception and a lower rate of occurrence of newly diagnosed infertility problems than D&C.
A high energy nanosecond cryogenic cooled Yb:YAG active-mirror amplifier system
Authors: Cheng Xiaojin , Wang Jianlei , Yang Zhongguo , Liu Jin , Li Lei , Shi Xiangchun , Huang Wenfa , Wang Jiangfeng , Chen Weibiao
Published: June 2014

A diode-pumped master oscillator power amplifier system based on a cryogenic Yb:YAG active-mirror laser has been developed. The performances of the laser amplifier at low temperature and room temperature have been investigated theoretically and experimentally. A maximum output energy of 3.05 J with an optical-to-optical efficiency of 14.7% has been achieved by using the master amplifier system.
Focusing on drug versus disease mechanisms and on clinical subgrouping to advance personalised medicine in psychiatry
Authors: de Leon Jose
Published: June 2014

Personalised medicine has finally been featured in psychiatric journals, but psychiatrists have mainly focused on the promise of using disease mechanisms to personalise treatment. Psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and depression are not diseases, in the medical sense, and are probably more like syndromes. Instead of spending much time and effort focusing on the mechanisms of diseases that may instead be syndromes, the author believes that psychiatrists should (1) learn more about personalising prescription via drug mechanisms, a pharmacological approach to personalised medicine; and (2) reconsider prior attempts by traditional clinical psychopharmacologists to use sophisticated clinical approaches that try to subdivide psychiatric syndromes into groups that may be more homogenous for treatment response.
SEVERING RESERVATIONS
Authors: McCall-Smith Kasey L.
Published: June 2014

How to address invalid reservations has been an ongoing struggle for States, legal practitioners and academics. This article considers the evolution of severability and whether States intend the language of severance to serve as a signal of their view on legality to reserving States or simply use severability to bolster their own public reputation. Over the past decade, State practice toward invalid reservations to norm-creating treaties has shifted and both this shift and its impact on treaty law must be acknowledged. The arguments and assertions that follow rely heavily on contemporary practice relating to reservations made to the core UN human rights treaties which, admittedly, limits the application of the doctrine in many ways. Review of State practice, especially to human rights treaties, demonstrates that a broader number of States are slowly opting for severability when defining their treaty relations with States authoring invalid reservations. The doctrine of severability is gaining a slow but steady following by a growing number of States though there is tension about whether severing reservations is lex specialis, pertaining only to human rights treaties, or lex ferenda. This article examines the evolving practice and forecasts the role it will play in the future of treaty law.
Monotone twist maps and periodic solutions of systems of Duffing type
Authors: BOSCAGGIN ALBERTO , ORTEGA RAFAEL
Published: June 2014

The theory of twist maps is applied to prove the existence of many harmonic and sub-harmonic solutions for certain Newtonian systems of differential equations. The method of proof leads to very precise information on the oscillatory properties of these solutions.
Identifying Deficiencies in National and Foreign Medical Team Responses Through Expert Opinion Surveys: Implications for Education and Training
Authors: Djalali Ahmadreza , Ingrassia Pier Luigi , Corte Francesco Della , Foletti Marco , Gallardo Alba Ripoll , Ragazzoni Luca , Kaptan Kubilay , Lupescu Olivera , Arculeo Chris , von Arnim Gotz , Friedl Tom , Ashkenazi Michael , Heselmann Deike , Hreckovski Boris , Khorrram-Manesh Amir , Komadina Radko , Lechner Kostanze , Patru Cristina , Burkle Frederick M. , Fisher Philipp
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Unacceptable practices in the delivery of international medical assistance are reported after every major international disaster; this raises concerns about the clinical competence and practice of some foreign medical teams (FMTs). The aim of this study is to explore and analyze the opinions of disaster management experts about potential deficiencies in the art and science of national and FMTs during disasters and the impact these opinions might have on competency-based education and training.

Method

This qualitative study was performed in 2013. A questionnaire-based evaluation of experts’ opinions and experiences in responding to disasters was conducted. The selection of the experts was done using the purposeful sampling method, and the sample size was considered by data saturation. Content analysis was used to explore the implications of the data.

Results

This study shows that there is a lack of competency-based training for disaster responders. Developing and performing standardized training courses is influenced by shortcomings in budget, expertise, and standards. There is a lack of both coordination and integration among teams and their activities during disasters. The participants of this study emphasized problems concerning access to relevant resources during disasters.

Conclusion

The major findings of this study suggest that teams often are not competent during the response phase because of education and training deficiencies. Foreign medical teams and medically related nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) do not always provide expected capabilities and services. Failures in leadership and in coordination among teams are also a problem. All deficiencies need to be applied to competency-based curricula.

DjalaliA, IngrassiaPL, Della CorteF, FolettiM, Ripoll GallardoA, RagazzoniL, KaptanK, LupescuO, ArculeoC, von ArnimG, FriedlT, AshkenaziM, HeselmannD, HreckovskiB, Khorrram-ManeshA, KomadinaR, LechnerK, PatruC, BurkleFMJr., FisherP. Identifying deficiencies in national and foreign medical team responses through expert opinion surveys: implications for education and training. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2014;29(4):1-5.
Misperceptions in Polarized Politics: The Role of Knowledge, Religiosity, and Media
Authors: Cacciatore Michael A. , Yeo Sara K. , Scheufele Dietram A. , Xenos Michael A. , Choi Doo-Hun , Brossard Dominique , Becker Amy B. , Corley Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2014

Many Americans hold distorted views of elected officials and, as our study shows, the blame is due partly to our ideological biases and partly to mass media. Analyzing a nationally representative online survey, we corroborate recent research that found that one in five Americans still believe president Barack Obama is a Muslim and that almost seven in ten mistakenly think Sarah Palin, and notSaturday Night Live’s Tina Fey, was the first to say “I can see Russia from my house.” Although race, political ideology, and “born-again” or evangelical Christian status were the primary drivers of misperceptions about Obama’s faith, media use had a more crucial role in predicting the more widespread misperception about Palin. Misattribution of the Fey quote to Palin was greatest among heavy viewers of traditional news media and late-night TV comedy, which is suggestive of the “lamestream media” effect often espoused by prominent Republican figures.
The “Liked” Department: Using Facebook Analytics for Strategic Communication
Authors: Waite Brandon , Wheeler Darren
Published: June 2014

The rapid diffusion of online social networking sites is changing the very nature of organizational communication. This is particularly true in higher education, where Facebook is increasingly being used as a means to engage with students, faculty, and alumni. Unfortunately, academic departments seeking to adopt such technologies often fail to understand the unique opportunities and challenges that accompany the adoption of social media. This article illuminates recent changes in organizational communication and describes the adoption of Facebook by a political science department at a midwestern state university. The authors develop a typology of Facebook posts to determine which types of information generate the most audience activity. They explain how this information can assist academic departments as they seek to bolster recruitment and retention of students, as well as ongoing investment from faculty and alumni.