bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TYPIFICATION OF SEVEN SPECIES OF LITSEA (LAURACEAE) ENDEMIC TO INDIA
Authors: Singh Rajeev Kumar
Published: March 2015

This paper deals with the typification of seven species of Litsea Lamarck endemic to India: Litsea bourdillonii Gamble, L. floribunda (Blume) Gamble, L. keralana Kostermans, L. laevigata (Nees) Gamble, L. mysorensis Gamble, L. nigrescens Gamble, and L. travancorica Gamble.
Discovery of the male Tiradelphe schneideri (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae, Danainae)—missing piece in an insect evolution puzzle
Authors: WILLS LAURIE
Published: March 2015

For 30 years the highly distinctive Schneider’s Surprise butterfly, Tiradelphe schneideri Ackery & Vane-Wright, 1984, has been known only from the two original type specimens, both female. Here we describe and illustrate the previously unknown male of this Guadalcanal endemic member of the Danaina—the subtribe of Nymphalidae: Danainae to which Tiradelphe has always been assigned. Unexpectedly, male T. schneideri completely lack alar androconia, and are thus  unlike all other species of Danaina and its sister group, the Amaurina. The new information will permit a reassessment of the phylogenetic relationships of Tiradelphe. This enigmatic genus may well be more isolated than previously supposed, with implications not only for our understanding of pheromone communication in these insects, but also the evolution and biogeography of the tribe Danaini in the Indo-Pacific.
New Hamacantha from Peru and resurrection of Zygherpe as subgenus (Demospongiae, Poecilosclerida, Hamacanthidae)
Authors: HAJDU EDUARDO , HOOKER YURI , WILLENZ PHILIPPE
Published: March 2015

Two species of Hamacantha with tylostyles are reported here for the Peruvian coast, namely H. desmacelloides sp.nov. and H. hyaloderma. The former is the first species in the genus with apically microspined sigmas, similar to those known to occur in Neofibularia, and recently reported from genera Biemna, Desmacella, Rhabderemia and Sigmaxinella. Hamacantha hyaloderma was previously known from Mexico to Canada, and is here reported for the first time from the south east Pacific. The finding of a second species with tylostyles led us to reinstate subgenus Hamacantha (Zygherpe). The possible phylogenetic significance of apically microspined sigmas is discussed in view of recent findings on the basis of molecular data.
Two new species of Rykellus (Acari: Mesostigmata: Ologamasidae) from Brazil and a key to the world species of the genus
Authors: SANTOS JANDIR C. , CASTILHO RAPHAEL C. , SILVA EDMILSON S. , De Moraes Gilberto J.
Published: March 2015

Rykellus anibali n. sp. and Rykellus mineiroi n. sp. are described from adult females and males collected from litter and soil in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. A key for the identification of females of the eight recognisable world species of Rykellus is provided.
Description of Sarasaeschna kaoi sp. nov. in Taiwan, with notes on the proposed differentiating characters of the pyanan-group (Odonata, Aeshnidae)
Authors: YEH WEN-CHI , LEE I-LUNG , WONG KWOK-CHING
Published: March 2015

Sarasaeschna kaoi sp. nov. collected from Yuli, Hualien County in eastern Taiwan, is easily distinguished from all known congeners by its male having short and straight cerci. Judging from male penile structure, it is considered to belong to the pyanan-group of species and resembles in general appearance the Chinese S. zhuae described from Fujian. The only known habitat of S. kaoi is a muddy and grassy swamp in natural evergreen forest. The diagnostic characters of the pyanan-group proposed by Karube & Yeh are also discussed.
Three new species of the genus Exphora Signoret, 1860 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Tropiduchidae) from Madagascar
Authors: JUNKIERT ŁUKASZ , WALCZAK MARCIN
Published: March 2015

Three new species of the genus Exphora Signoret, 1860 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae) are described from Madagascar: E. constanti sp. n., E. stroinskii sp. n. and E. ambatolaonaensis sp. n. The male genitalia are described for the first time in this genus. The male genitalia, head and fore wing of the new species are illustrated with photos of habitus provided. Key to the known species of Exphora is given.
Hermit crabs (Decapoda: Crustacea) from deep Mauritanian waters (NW Africa) with the description of a new species
Authors: DE MATOS-PITA SUSANA S. , RAMIL FRAN
Published: March 2015

Thirteen hermit crab species of the families Diogenidae, Paguridae and Parapaguridae were captured in deep waters off Mauritania during Maurit surveys. A new species of the genus Paguristes, Paguristes candelae n. sp., is described.        Areopaguristes mauritanicus n. comb. is proposed for Paguristes mauritanicus Bouvier, 1906 and Pseudopaguristes     marocanus n. comb. for Paguristes marocanus A. Milne-Edwards & Bouvier, 1892; the females of the latter species are reported for the first time. Our data extends the geographical distribution of Pseudopaguristes marocanus southwards and that of Paragiopagurus macroceros northwards. Both species, together with Diogenes pugilator (Roux, 1829), are             recorded for the first time in Mauritanian waters. New data about bathymetric ranges are also reported for Pseudopaguristes marocanus n. comb., Areopaguristes mauritanicus n. comb. and Paragiopagurus macroceros.
New species, corallivory, in situ video observations and overview of the Goniasteridae (Valvatida, Asteroidea) in the Hawaiian Region
Authors: MAH CHRISTOPHER L.
Published: March 2015

Two new species of Goniasteridae, Astroceramus eldredgei n. sp. and Apollonaster kelleyi n. sp. are described from the Hawaiian Islands region. Prior to this occurrence, Apollonaster was known only from the North Atlantic. The Goniasteridae is the most diverse family of asteroids in the Hawaiian region. Additional in situ observations of several goniasterid species, including A. eldredgei n. sp. are reported. These observations extend documentation of deep-sea corallivory among goniasterid asteroids. New species occurrences presented herein suggested further biogeographic affinities between tropical Pacific and Atlantic goniasterid faunas.
A new species of the nearctic gall-forming genus Tamalia Baker (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Tamaliinae)
Authors: KANTURSKI MARIUSZ , WIECZOREK KARINA
Published: March 2015

The apterous viviparous female and alate oviparous female of a new aphid species, Tamalia milleri sp. nov., a representative of a nearctic relict genus Tamalia and associated with Arctostaphylos columbiana, is described and figured in detail from specimens collected in California and Oregon (USA) and deposited in the Natural History Museum, London (UK). The differences between T. milleri and a related species, T. dicksoni Remaudière & Stroyan as well as other taxa of this genus are discussed. The distribution of Tamalia and a key to identification of the known species of the genus are provided.
Unemployment, business cycles, and crime specialization: Canadian provinces, 1981–2009
Authors: Andresen Martin A , Linning Shannon J
Published: March 2015

The relationship between unemployment and crime is complex, consisting of two independent and counteracting effects: motivation and guardianship. The Cantor and Land model integrated these two effects leading to a new literature investigating the relationship between unemployment and crime. However, this literature always considers the impact of unemployment (or some other measure of the economy) on the volume or rate of crime. In this paper, we investigate the role unemployment plays in crime specialization on the Canadian provinces, 1981–2009. Using panel data and a hybrid modeling technique we find that unemployment impacts crime specialization, but this impact varies in magnitude and by crime type.
Teaching Movable Du
Authors: Dalby Bruce
Published: March 2015

Reading music notation with fluency is a complex skill requiring well-founded instruction by the music teacher and diligent practice on the part of the learner. The task is complicated by the fact that there are multiple ways to notate a given rhythm. Beginning music students typically have their first encounter with enrhythmic notation when they learn to play in “cut time,” or alla breve, but there are many other types of enrhythmic notation that must be mastered. This article discusses the challenges involved in teaching enrhythmic skills and suggests guidelines for making instruction more effective.
Collaboration in training workshops for library and information professionals in Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Ahsan
Published: March 2015

The current study seeks to explore the nature of collaboration among different organizations for conducting training workshops to enhance the skills of library and information science (LIS) professionals in Pakistan. This study covered training activities conducted from 1st January 2009 to 31st December 2013. Content analysis was used for this study. The data for the study was collected through an overview and perusal of messages shared on online Yahoo! groups of LIS professionals in Pakistan including PakLAG and LIBCOOP. The study found that universities, research and development institutes or academies, library associations and some business organizations have participated in the promotion of the skills of librarians in Pakistan. International cooperation seems lacking, as only five initiatives have attracted the cooperation of only three international organizations. The University of Punjab, Pakistan Librarians Welfare Association and the Institute of Research Promotion have played the leading role in their respective categories in enhancing the skills of LIS professionals in Pakistan.
Effect of three-size too large strong stocking on venous hemodynamics in normal subjects
Authors: Suehiro K , Morikage N , Murakami M , Yamashita O , Harada T , Ueda K , Samura M , Tanaka Y , Hamano K
Published: March 2015

Objectives

To study the differences in impact on venous hemodynamics between larger size strong graduated elastic compression stockings (GECS) and appropriate size strong/moderate GECS.

Method

In healthy legs fitted for a small (Group S; n = 8) and large (Group L; n = 8) GECS, air plethysmography was performed without GECS, with an appropriate size strong GECS (GECS1), with a three-size too large strong GECS (GECS2), and with an appropriate size moderate GECS (GECS3) in this order.

Results

In Group S, interface pressure with GECS2 was equal to or higher than that with GECS3. Decreased venous volume, unchanged ejection volume, and decreased residual volume were achieved by GECS, but differences in these parameters among GECS were not observed. Although insignificant, a similar tendency was found in Group L.

Conclusions

A larger size strong GECS seemed to have equivalent interface pressure and impact on venous hemodynamics compared to an appropriate size moderate or strong GECS.
Effects of 10 to 30 years of lithium treatment on kidney function
Authors: Aiff Harald , Attman Per-Ola , Aurell Mattias , Bendz Hans , Ramsauer Bernd , Schön Staffan , Svedlund Jan
Published: March 2015

Long-term lithium treatment is associated with end-stage renal disease, but there is little evidence of a clinically significant reduction in renal function in most patients. We previously found that 1.5% of people who took lithium from the 1960s and 1970s developed end-stage renal disease; however, none of the patients who started after 1980 had end-stage renal disease. Here we aimed to study the prevalence and extent of kidney damage during the course of long-term lithium treatment since 1980. We retrieved serum lithium and creatinine levels from 4879 patients examined between 1 January 1981 and 31 December 2010. Only patients who started their lithium treatment during the study period and had at least 10 years of cumulative treatment were included. The study group comprised 630 adult patients (402 women and 228 men) with normal creatinine levels at the start of lithium treatment. There was a yearly increase in median serum creatinine levels already from the first year of treatment. About one-third of the patients who had taken lithium for 10–29 years had evidence of chronic renal failure but only 5% were in the severe or very severe category. The results indicate that a substantial proportion of adult patients who are treated with lithium for more than a decade develop signs of renal functional impairment, also when treated according to modern therapeutic principles. Our results emphasise that lithium treatment requires continuous monitoring of kidney function.
Sharing science
Authors: Bossaller Jenny , Atiso Kodjo
Published: March 2015

Scientists around the world benefit from sharing scientific data, lab notes, and preliminary papers, as well as traditional, formal scientific papers. Institutional repositories (IR) are open spaces for scientists to deposit their work. Doing so could potentially spark new collaborations, allowing scientists and scholars to build cross-institutional capacity. However, scientists must trust that the repository is secure, and they must understand copyright law and protections. Many African nations are at a crossroads: poised to solve major problems with well-trained scientists, yet stymied by expensive and unpredictable ICT. Many African scientists are also wary of the Internet due to rampant scams and fraud. This paper describes current African ICT development, reports on findings from a study about ICT, databases, and IRs in Ghana, and concludes with recommendations for expanding the use of IRs.
How Conformity to Labor Market Norms Increases Access to Job Search Assistance
Authors: Holbrow Hilary J.
Published: March 2015

Recent studies have shown that providing job search assistance to job seekers who violate labor market norms can be costly. Consequently, people with information about jobs are less willing to help deviant job seekers. This implies that job seekers’ conformity to labor market norms should be useful in predicting receipt of job search assistance. The author tests this claim using data from Japan and finds evidence that deviant job seekers receive less assistance. The findings demonstrate the importance of social norms in understanding assistance flows and illustrate the limits of network analysis in explaining access to job search assistance.
Compression moulding of sheet moulding compound: Modelling with computational fluid dynamics and validation
Authors: Kluge NE Jimmy , Lundström T Staffan , Westerberg Lars G , Olofsson Kurt
Published: March 2015

Partly presented in Interdisciplinary Transport Phenomena VII, Dresden, Germany, 19–23 September 2011. Compression moulding experiments of sheet moulding compound, visual observations of a vacuum test with prepregs and numerical models with two main approaches for computational fluid dynamics simulations of the mould filling phase are presented. One assumes that there are layers near the mould surfaces with much less viscosity and the other only use one viscosity model. The numerical experiments showed that the pressure could be accurately predicted with both approaches. The property necessary to predict correct pressure with altered mould closing velocities was that the bulk material had to obey shear-thinning effects. Preheating effects before compression were neglected, but altering the heating time until the prepreg was assumed to start flow had a significant effect. The experiments confirmed that the pressure is predominantly affected by the mould closing velocity. Regardless of the considered process settings, a first pressure top always appeared approximately at the logarithmic strain 0.25. A second top was associated with a slowdown of the press. The location of this was affected by the velocity and the vacuum, the latter indicating that vacuum assistance prevents a build-up of back pressure. Furthermore, heated prepreg above a critical temperature is observed to swell immediately as vacuum assistance is applied.
Synergistic effects of nano-silica on aluminum diethylphosphinate/polyamide 66 system for fire retardancy
Authors: Zhan Zhaoshun , Li Bin , Xu Miaojun , Guo Zhanhu
Published: March 2015

Nano-silica had been used as a synergistic agent for the preparation of aluminum diethylphosphinate (AlPi) flame retardant polyamide 66 (PA66/AlPi) and PA66/AlPi/nano-silica composites through twin-screw extrusion. The limiting oxygen index (LOI), used to characterize the minimum amount of oxygen needed to sustain a candle-like flame, revealed that the PA66/10%AlPi/1%nano-silica composites exhibited an excellent flame retardant efficiency with a high LOI value of 32.3%. The vertical flame test (UL-94) revealed that the PA66/10%AlPi/1%nano-silica composites passed the V-0 rating without drop melting. Cone calorimeter test revealed that the heat release rate and total heat rate for the PA66/10%AlPi/1%nano-silica composites were significantly decreased by 51.1 and 16.8%, respectively, compared with those of pure PA66. The thermogravimetric analysis showed that the PA66/10%AlPi/1%nano-silica composites had vast chars of 8.1% even at 800°C, indicating that nano-silica could promote the char formation of the PA66 composites. Scanning electron microscopy indicated a solid and tough residue of the burned PA66/10%AlPi/1%nano-silica composites as compared with the very loose and brickle residue of the burned pure PA66, indicating that a suitable amount of nano-silica played a synergistic effect in the flame retardancy.
Sir William Turner (1832–1916) – Lancastrian, anatomist and champion of the Victorian era
Authors: Wessels Quenton , Correia Janine Carla , Taylor Adam M
Published: March 2015

Sir William Turner, a Lancastrian, was renowned as a scientist, anatomist and a great reformer of medical education. His students became anatomists at various international institutions, which consequently shaped the future of anatomy as a subject matter both in the United Kingdom and in South Africa. Although Turner’s accomplishments have been documented, little is known about the details that determined his career path and the individuals that shaped his future. Here the authors aim to highlight some aspects of Turner’s academic achievements and his personal life as well as how he crossed paths with other great minds of the Victorian era including Richard Owen, Charles Darwin, James Paget and Joseph Lister.
Cancer-Related Pain and Pain Management
Authors: Twycross Alison , Parker Roslyn , Williams Anna , Gibson Faith
Published: March 2015

Advances in treatment mean children are increasingly cared for by their parents at home, leading to a shift in responsibility from health care professionals to parents. Little is known about parents’ pain management experiences and the etiology of pain experienced by children with cancer especially when at home. A rapid review of the literature was undertaken investigating children’s cancer-related pain, with emphasis on the management of pain outside the health care setting. Electronic databases were searched and a quality assessment was conducted. Forty-two articles were included. Despite advances in pain management techniques, children with cancer regularly cite pain as the most prevalent symptom throughout the cancer trajectory. The source of pain is usually treatment side effects or painful procedures. Parents find dealing with their child’s pain distressing and demanding and may hold misconceptions about pain management. Findings indicate a need for more robust research into parental pain management leading to the development of effective pain management resources for parents.
Probabilistic modelling of a rotational energy harvester
Authors: Green PL , Hendijanizadeh M , Simeone L , Elliott SJ
Published: March 2015

Relatively recently, many researchers in the field of energy harvesting have focused on the concept of harvesting electrical energy from relatively large-amplitude, low-frequency vibrations (such as the movement caused by walking motion or ocean waves). This has led to the development of ‘rotational energy harvesters’ which, through the use of a rack-and-pinion or a ball-screw, are able to convert low-frequency translational motion into high-frequency rotational motion. A disadvantage of many rotational energy harvesters is that, as a result of friction effects in the motion transfer mechanism, they can exhibit large parasitic losses. This results in nonlinear behaviour, which can be difficult to predict using physical-law-based models. In the current article a rotational energy harvester is built and, through using experimental data in combination with a Bayesian approach to system identification, is modelled in a probabilistic manner. It is then shown that the model can be used to make predictions which are both accurate and robust against modelling uncertainties.
Use of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy on Closed Surgical Incision After Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: Matsumoto Takumi , Parekh Selene G.
Published: March 2015

Background:

Wound healing problems of the anterior ankle incision are among the most common complications after total ankle arthroplasty, possibly resulting in exposure of the prostheses and infection. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in decreasing the rate of wound healing problems after total ankle arthroplasty.

Methods:

This is a retrospective cohort study including consecutive patients who underwent total ankle arthroplasty by a single surgeon at a single institution between 2009 and 2013. The incisional negative pressure dressing was applied to all patients who underwent total ankle arthroplasty between 2012 and 2013 with a continuous application of −80 mm Hg negative pressure for 6 days postoperatively. The control group consisted of patients who underwent total ankle arthroplasty between 2009 and 2012 with a conventional nonadherent gauze dressing. Seventy-four patients were involved in this study: 37 in the control group and 37 in the incisional NPWT group.

Results:

All patients tolerated the incisional NPWT to completion without any dressing failures or skin problems. Both groups showed similar distributions in demographics and perioperative risk factors for wound healing. There were 9 (24%) wound healing problems in the control group and 1 (3%) in the incisional NPWT group. Incisional NPWT was found to reduce wound healing problems with an odds ratio of 0.10 (95% CI, 0.01-0.50; P = .004).

Conclusions:

Our study demonstrated that there was a decreased incidence of wound healing problems following total ankle arthroplasty with incisional NPWT dressings. This is the first study evaluating the efficacy of incisional NPWT as an adjunct treatment for wound healing after total ankle arthroplasty.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Qualitative Ranting?
Authors: Badley Graham Francis
Published: March 2015

In this article, I first sketch an account of various English radicals and ranters before concentrating on an American example, Johnny Saldaña’s rant on “ Blue-Collar Qualitative Research.” Then, my main interest lies in discussing whether Saldaña’s rant may appropriately be regarded as “qualitative.” I structure the article by using a few theatrical terms—overture, beginners, main act, reprise, and finale—mainly to suggest that, despite his protests to the contrary, what Saldaña is really (one of his favorite words!) offering is a performance. Indeed, it would be a performance I would really wish to hear and see.
A strain-softening bar with rehardening revisited
Authors: Shishkina Ekaterina V , Gavrilov Serge N
Published: March 2015

We revisit, from the standpoint of the modern theory of phase transitions, the classical problem of stretching of a strain-softening bar with rehardening, considered earlier by Belytschko et al. We show that the classical solution, which is based on an empiric condition motivated by finite-element simulations, is not always consistent with the second law of thermodynamics. We use the model of a phase-transforming bar with a trilinear stress–strain relation and analytically consider the particular case where the stiffness of a new phase inclusion (i.e. ‘rehardening zone’) equals the stiffness of the initial phase. Instead of the empiric condition used earlier, we formulate the thermodynamic condition at the phase boundary in the most general form which respects the second law of thermodynamics. This allows us to construct a new solution, which describes the non-stationary dynamic processes in a strain-softening bar with rehardening being in agreement with the second law of thermodynamics. We also demonstrate that the solution always exists if the dissipation at the phase boundary is small enough. On the other hand, if the dissipation is strong enough, the proposed scenario of the phase transformation cannot be realized.
Home Nurses’ Opinions Toward e-Learning in Continuing Education
Authors: De Vliegher K. , Paquay L. , Cordyn S. , Heirstrate L. , Goense E. , Pechon S. , Labalue J. , Putzeys D.
Published: March 2015

There is an increased focus on the introduction of e-learning in the continuing education of home nurses. The aim of this study was to explore the opinions of home nurses toward continuing education via e-learning. The majority of the participants (87.9%) were willing to be educated via e-learning. The five main criteria in the success of an e-learning module were the user friendliness (79.7%), a thorough explanation about the use of the platform (63.7%), a thorough development of the subject (34.7%), the possibility to exchange ideas with colleagues or teachers (30.9%), and the availability of online illustrations (30.8%). The home nurses are willing to be educated via e-learning, but they were not conclusive on their preference toward classical education or education via e-learning.
King’s College London Student Clinical Ethics Committee case discussion: Is it appropriate to insert a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy for an elderly man who has already pulled out a naso-gastric tube?
Authors: Johnston Carolyn , Baty Michael , Dollman Greg
Published: March 2015

Members of the Student Clinical Ethics Committee discussed whether tube feeding should be instigated for a man who had indicated through his actions that he may be refusing it, although his family stated that he would have wanted to be kept alive in such a situation. The Committee considered the key issues of capacity and best interests, which in this case were confounded by lack of clarity about whether the patient’s actions amounted to a valid refusal of life sustaining treatment, and if his previous views still pertained to his current, yet unforeseen, circumstances. As the discussion progressed, it became apparent that some members were reluctant to accept that non-insertion of clinically assisted feeding could ever be in a patient’s best interests.
Challenges and opportunities for the school system
Authors: Capogna Stefania
Published: March 2015

Educational agencies are going through a difficult transition, with important consequences in terms of de-legitimacy of the social mandate historically assigned to the school. The reason for this widespread unease can be traced to the fact that today we live in a complex system.

This paper arises within this problematic framework with the intent to outline the most important lines of change affecting education agencies during the last fifteen years, paying particular attention to the new institutional and normative framework that redefined the whole educational structure in Italy.

The objective of this paper is to contribute to the development of a new vision of the education system, more in line with the challenges posed by the global and complex society that emphasizes both the importance of evaluation of education agencies, on the basis of Quality Assurance more attentive to results, and the community’s responsibility to education.
Increasing ultraviolet light exposure is associated with reduced mortality from Clostridium difficile infection
Authors: Govani Shail M , Waljee Akbar K , Stidham Ryan W , Higgins Peter DR
Published: March 2015

Background

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is an increasingly common cause of inpatient mortality. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with more aggressive CDI. We aimed to determine if average annual ultraviolet light (UV) exposure was associated with mortality in patients with CDI.

Methods

We used the US National Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2004–2011 to assess the mortality risk in patients with a diagnosis of CDI (as per ICD‐9CM 008.45). Annual average state UV exposure was assigned to each hospitalization. Logistic regression was used to determine the effects of UV exposure on mortality, controlling for age, gender, race and other comorbidities.

Results

During the study period, there were 2.61 million hospitalizations with a diagnosis of CDI. The mortality rate was 9.0%. In univariate analysis, the odds ratio (OR) of inpatient mortality for the UV index was 0.97 (95% CI 0.95–0.99; p  = 0.008) per unit of UV exposure. In a multivariable model adjusting for age, gender, race, Charlson‐Deyo index, season and coexisting inflammatory bowel disease, the UV index remained a protective predictor, with an OR of 0.94 (95% CI 0.92–0.96; p  < 0.001). In the multivariate model, a seasonal effect was also present, with the highest risk of inpatient mortality in the period from January to March (OR 1.11; 95% CI 1.08–1.14) and the lowest risk, from July to September (OR 0.95; 95% CI 0.92–0.98).

Conclusions

An increase in UV exposure index is associated with a reduced risk of inpatient mortality in patients with CDI. A seasonal effect is also present, with the highest risk of death during winter months. Further studies exploring the role of UV light in CDI are necessary.
Risk factors for polyp retrieval failure in colonoscopy
Authors: Fernandes Carlos , Pinho Rolando , Ribeiro Iolanda , Silva Joana , Ponte Ana , Carvalho João
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Colonoscopy is able to diagnose, resect and retrieve colonic polyps. Although retrieval of resected polyps is still globally advised, it is not always successful. We aimed to define the risk factors for polyp retrieval failure in colonoscopy.

Methods

A single‐center, retrospective study assessed 3507 consecutive and non‐urgent colonoscopies, performed between September 2011 and December 2012. Colonoscopies were included in our analysis if the diagnosis of at least one polyp was established, and one or more snare polypectomies were performed. Demographic and technical data were collected according to the patient's endoscopy report.

Results

A total of 1109 polyps were analyzed, corresponding to 496 colonoscopies from 483 different patients. We found that 53 (4.8%) of the resected polyps were not retrieved. In a univariate analysis, the factors associated with polyp retrieval failure were: age, polyp size, resection technique, bowel preparation, location and the presence of a previous colorectal surgery (p  < 0.05). In the multivariate analysis, a previous colorectal surgery, resection by cold snare, location in the right colon, inadequate bowel preparation and a polyp size up to 5 mm were independently associated with higher polyp retrieval failure (p  < 0.05).

Discussion

Different and well‐defined factors were associated with polyp retrieval failure. Because bowel preparation was the only modifiable factor identified, a special focus should be given to this topic.
A “Google Image” diagnosis of Madelung’s disease
Authors: Mumoli Nicola , Vitale Josè , Sabatini Silvia , Manni Carolina , Masi Lorenzo , Mazzi Valeria , Cei Marco , Giorgetti Silvia , Rossi Monica , Comassi Mario , Camaiti Alberto
Published: March 2015

Lesson

Given the rare nature of Madelung's disease many clinicians will not have seen a patient with it and will not be able to recognise them: subsequently a diagnosis is unlikely to be made.
Ijebu Ode’s Ojude Oba Festival
Authors: Fahm AbdulGafar Olawale
Published: March 2015

Yoruba festivals are numerous and multifarious. For this reason, some are of the view that the Yorubas are deeply spiritual. In addition to the generally celebrated festivals among the Yorubas, each Yoruba tribe has its own festivals. A series of these festivals called the Ojude Oba festival is celebrated by the Ijebus who are renowned for both their enterprise and affluence. This article examines the cultural and spiritual significance of the Ojude Oba festival. It analyzes the early beginnings of the festival while providing insights into the epoch of the Ijebus. The festival constitutes a major commercial activity that brings about economic integration and development of the Ijebu community. This article argues that the Ojude Oba festival should not be seen simply for its entertainment value, but as a manifestation of Yoruba cultural, socio-economic, and spiritual values.
Development of small sized friction stir welding equipment for hand operated welding
Authors: Morisada Y. , Tamashiro K. , Kamai M. , Ueji R. , Fujii H.
Published: March 2015

Friction stir welding (FSW) is widely used in various industrial fields. However, high tiffness is required for FSW equipment which has to withstand high applied load and tool torque and therefore, the equipment becomes large sized. It is difficult to employ FSW for site welding such as repair welding and/or manual welding. The authors made a prototype of FSW apparatus equipped with a counterbalanced tool and a local heating device. The relationship between the applied load and welding parameters was investigated and it was found that the force in the welding direction, Fx is reduced to 70 N or less and that in the transverse direction Fy is to 50 N or less. The combined use of the prototype equipment with a counterbalanced tool and the local heating is very effective to downsize FSW equipment.
Generation of human memory stem T cells after haploidentical T-replete hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Cieri Nicoletta , Oliveira Giacomo , Greco Raffaella , Forcato Mattia , Taccioli Cristian , Cianciotti Beatrice , Valtolina Veronica , Noviello Maddalena , Vago Luca , Bondanza Attilio , Lunghi Francesca , Marktel Sarah , Bellio Laura , Bordignon Claudio , Bicciato Silvio , Peccatori Jacopo , Ciceri Fabio , Bonini Chiara
Published: March 2015

Key Points

TSCM lymphocytes are preferentially generated from naive precursors in vivo early after haploidentical HSCT. TSCM represent relevant novel players in the diversification of immunological memory after haploidentical HSCT.
OnabotulinumtoxinA for Hemicrania Continua: open label experience in 9 patients
Authors: Miller Sarah , Correia Fernando , Lagrata Susie , Matharu Manjit S
Published: March 2015

Background

Hemicrania continua is a strictly unilateral, continuous headache, typically mild to moderate in severity, with severe exacerbations commonly accompanied by cranial autonomic features and migrainous symptoms. It is exquisitely responsive to Indomethacin. However, some patients cannot tolerate treatment, often due to gastrointestinal side effects. Therapeutic alternatives are limited and controlled evidence lacking.

Methods

We present our experience of nine patients treated with OnabotulinumtoxinA for hemicrania continua. All patients were injected using the PREEMPT (Phase 3 REsearch Evaluating Migraine Prophylaxis Therapy) protocol for migraine.

Results

Five of nine patients demonstrated a 50% or more reduction in moderate to severe headache days with OnabotulinumtoxinA with a median reduction in moderate to severe headache days of 80%. Patient estimate of response was 80% or more in five subjects. The median and mean duration of response in the five responders was 11 and 12 weeks (range 6–20 weeks). Improvements were also seen in headache-associated disability

Conclusions

OnabotulinumtoxinA adds a potential option to the limited therapeutic alternatives available in hemicrania continua.
MicroRNA-33a regulates cholesterol synthesis and cholesterol efflux-related genes in osteoarthritic chondrocytes
Authors: Kostopoulou Fotini , Malizos Konstantinos N , Papathanasiou Ioanna , Tsezou Aspasia
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Several studies have shown that osteoarthritis (OA) is strongly associated with metabolism-related disorders, highlighting OA as the fifth component of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). On the basis of our previous findings on dysregulation of cholesterol homeostasis in OA, we were prompted to investigate whether microRNA-33a (miR-33a), one of the master regulators of cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism, plays a key role in OA pathogenesis.

Methods

Articular cartilage samples were obtained from 14 patients with primary OA undergoing total knee replacement surgery. Normal cartilage was obtained from nine individuals undergoing fracture repair surgery. Bioinformatics analysis was used to identify miR-33a target genes. miR-33a and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP-2) expression levels were investigated using real-time PCR, and their expression was also assessed after treatment with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in cultured chondrocytes. Akt phosphorylation after treatment with both TGF-β1 and miR-33a inhibitor or TGF-β1 and miR-33a mimic was assessed by Western blot analysis. Furthermore, we evaluated the effect of miR-33a mimic and miR-33a inhibitor on Smad7, a negative regulator of TGF-β signaling, on cholesterol efflux-related genes, ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and liver X receptors (LXRα and LXRβ), as well as on matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), using real-time PCR.

Results

We found that the expression of miR-33a and its host gene SREBP-2 was significantly elevated in OA chondrocytes compared with normal chondrocytes. Treatment of cultured chondrocytes with TGF-β1 resulted in increased expression of both miR-33a and SREBP-2, as well as in rapid induction of Akt phosphorylation, whereas TGF-β-induced Akt phosphorylation was enhanced by miR-33a and suppressed by inhibition of miR-33a, as a possible consequence of Smad7 regulation by miR-33a. Moreover, treatment of normal chondrocytes with miR-33a resulted in significantly reduced ABCA1 and ApoA1 mRNA expression levels and significantly elevated MMP-13 expression levels, promoting the OA phenotype, whereas miR-33a’s suppressive effect was reversed using its inhibitor.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest, for the first time to our knowledge, that miR-33a regulates cholesterol synthesis through the TGF-β1/Akt/SREBP-2 pathway, as well as cholesterol efflux-related genes ABCA1 and ApoA1, in OA chondrocytes, pointing to its identification as a novel target for ameliorating the OA phenotype.
Polychromatic flow cytometry in evaluating rheumatic disease patients
Authors: Wei Chungwen , Jenks Scott , Sanz Iñaki
Published: March 2015

B cells are central players in multiple autoimmune rheumatic diseases as a result of the imbalance between pathogenic and protective B-cell functions, which are presumably mediated by distinct populations. Yet the functional role of different B-cell populations and the contribution of specific subsets to disease pathogenesis remain to be fully understood owing to a large extent to the use of pauci-color flow cytometry. Despite its limitations, this approach has been instrumental in providing a global picture of multiple B-cell abnormalities in multiple human rheumatic diseases, more prominently systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren’s syndrome. Accordingly, these studies represent the focus of this review. In addition, we also discuss the added value of tapping into the potential of polychromatic flow cytometry to unravel a higher level of B-cell heterogeneity, provide a more nuanced view of B-cell abnormalities in disease and create the foundation for a precise understanding of functional division of labor among the different phenotypic subsets. State-of-the-art polychromatic flow cytometry and novel multidimensional analytical approaches hold tremendous promise for our understanding of disease pathogenesis, the generation of disease biomarkers, patient stratification and personalized therapeutic approaches.
Brivaracetam, but not ethosuximide, reverses memory impairments in an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model
Authors: Nygaard Haakon B , Kaufman Adam C , Sekine-Konno Tomoko , Huh Linda L , Going Hilary , Feldman Samantha J , Kostylev Mikhail A , Strittmatter Stephen M
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Recent studies have shown that several strains of transgenic Alzheimer’s disease (AD) mice overexpressing the amyloid precursor protein (APP) have cortical hyperexcitability, and their results have suggested that this aberrant network activity may be a mechanism by which amyloid-β (Aβ) causes more widespread neuronal dysfunction. Specific anticonvulsant therapy reverses memory impairments in various transgenic mouse strains, but it is not known whether reduction of epileptiform activity might serve as a surrogate marker of drug efficacy for memory improvement in AD mouse models.

Methods

Transgenic AD mice (APP/PS1 and 3xTg-AD) were chronically implanted with dural electroencephalography electrodes, and epileptiform activity was correlated with spatial memory function and transgene-specific pathology. The antiepileptic drugs ethosuximide and brivaracetam were tested for their ability to suppress epileptiform activity and to reverse memory impairments and synapse loss in APP/PS1 mice.

Results

We report that in two transgenic mouse models of AD (APP/PS1 and 3xTg-AD), the presence of spike-wave discharges (SWDs) correlated with impairments in spatial memory. Both ethosuximide and brivaracetam reduce mouse SWDs, but only brivaracetam reverses memory impairments in APP/PS1 mice.

Conclusions

Our data confirm an intriguing therapeutic role of anticonvulsant drugs targeting synaptic vesicle protein 2A across AD mouse models. Chronic ethosuximide dosing did not reverse spatial memory impairments in APP/PS1 mice, despite reduction of SWDs. Our data indicate that SWDs are not a reliable surrogate marker of appropriate target engagement for reversal of memory dysfunction in APP/PS1 mice.
Should Temporary Hemodialysis Catheter Insertion Remain a Requirement of Nephrology Residency Training?
Authors: Jain Arsh K
Published: March 2015

Purpose of review:

Recently, there has been much debate about the practicality and utility of training nephrology fellows in temporary hemodialysis catheter insertion.

Sources of information:

Literature review along with the authors' opinion.

Findings:

This skill can be taught easily, in a controlled fashion to maximize success and minimize complications. In order to achieve this training centres should be required to teach using simulation based mastery learning and ultrasound guidance. Employing these strategies makes the inexperienced operator perform at the level of an experienced operator. As a specialty, nephrologists have a responsibility to provide hemodialysis in a timely fashion during emergencies, meaning nephrologists should be able to insert temporary hemodialysis catheters. We should take ownership over this skill and depend on no other specialty.

Limitations:

Limited data has been published on this subject.

Implications:

Temporary hemodialysis catheter insertion should be maintained as a core competency by the Royal College.
Elastic inverse scattering for fluid variation with time-lapse seismic data
Authors: Zong Zhaoyun , Yin Xingyao , Wu Guochen , Wu Zhiping
Published: March 2015

Elastic inverse-scattering theory has been extended for fluid discrimination using the time-lapse seismic data. The fluid factor, shear modulus, and density are used to parameterize the reference medium and the monitoring medium, and the fluid factor works as the hydrocarbon indicator. The baseline medium is, in the conception of elastic scattering theory, the reference medium, and the monitoring medium is corresponding to the perturbed medium. The difference in the earth properties between the monitoring medium and the baseline medium is taken as the variation in the properties between the reference medium and perturbed medium. The baseline and monitoring data correspond to the background wavefields and measured full fields, respectively. And the variation between the baseline data and monitoring data is taken as the scattered wavefields. Under the above hypothesis, we derived a linearized and qualitative approximation of the reflectivity variation in terms of the changes of fluid factor, shear modulus, and density with the perturbation theory. Incorporating the effect of the wavelet into the reflectivity approximation as the forward solver, we determined a practical prestack inversion approach in a Bayesian scheme to estimate the fluid factor, shear modulus, and density changes directly with the time-lapse seismic data. We evaluated the examples revealing that the proposed approach rendered the estimation of the fluid factor, shear modulus, and density changes stably, even with moderate noise.
Recent advances in time-lapse, laboratory rock physics for the characterization and monitoring of fluid-rock interactions
Authors: Vanorio Tiziana
Published: March 2015

Monitoring thermo-chemo-mechanical processes geophysically — e.g., fluid disposal or storage, thermal and chemical stimulation of reservoirs, or natural fluids simply entering a new system — raises numerous concerns because of the likelihood of fluid-rock chemical interactions and our limited ability to decipher the geophysical signature of coupled processes. One of the missing links is understanding the evolution of seismic properties together with reactive transport because rock properties evolve as a result of chemical reactions and vice versa. Capturing this coupling experimentally is one of the missing elements in the existing literature. This paper describes recent advances in rock-physics experiments to understand the effects of dissolution-induced compaction on acoustic velocity, porosity, and permeability. This paper has a dual aim: understanding the mechanisms underlying permanent modifications to the rock microstructure and providing a richer set of experimental information to inform the formulation of new simulations and rock modeling. Data observation included time-lapse experiments and imaging tracking transport and elastic properties, the rock microstructure, and the pH and chemical composition of the fluid permeating the rock. Results show that the removal of high surface area, mineral phases such as microcrystalline calcite and clay appears to be mostly responsible for dissolution-induced compaction. Nevertheless, it was the original rock microstructure and its response to stress that ultimately defined how solution-transfer and rock compaction feed back upon each other. The change in pore volume to the applied stress, the permeability characterizing the formation, and the reactive transport of phases characterized by a high surface area were strongly coupled during injection, controlling how velocity evolved. In less stiff rocks, rock-fluid interactions led to grain-slip-driven compaction and a consequent decrease in velocity. In tight and stiff rocks, rock-fluid interactions led to minimal compaction, a larger increase in permeability, and crack opening. Nevertheless, the change in velocity of these tight rocks was almost negligible.