bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial study of Fernandoa adenophylla against multidrug resistant urinary tract infection pathogens
Authors: Rahim Abdur , Hussain Muhammad Medrar , Altaf Ihsan Ullah Khan
Published: January 2016

In the present study various solvent extracts from the leaves of Fernandoa  adenophylla were screened for their phytochemical and antimicrobial potentials. Preliminary phytochemical screening of leaves extracts showed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, steroids, reducing sugars and anthracenes. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic studies showed the presence of different functional groups for compounds like alcohol, aldehydes and ketones, saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons, amides, amines, carboxylic acids, esters, and ethers. All the extracts showed significant antibacterial activities when tested against eight multidrug resistant bacterial strains isolated from urinary tract infection patients. It was concluded that the leaves extracts of F. adenophylla have several vital phytochemical constituents and significant antibacterial activities against multidrug resistant bacterial strains causing urinary tract infections.

 
Structure of Optimal State Discrimination in Generalized Probabilistic Theories
Authors: Bae Joonwoo , Kim Dai-Gyoung , Kwek Leong-Chuan
Published: January 2016

We consider optimal state discrimination in a general convex operational framework, so-called generalized probabilistic theories (GPTs), and present a general method of optimal discrimination by applying the complementarity problem from convex optimization. The method exploits the convex geometry of states but not other detailed conditions or relations of states and effects. We also show that properties in optimal quantum state discrimination are shared in GPTs in general: (i) no measurement sometimes gives optimal discrimination, and (ii) optimal measurement is not unique.
Economic Viability Study of an On-Road Wireless Charging System with a Generic Driving Range Estimation Method
Authors: Shekhar Aditya , Prasanth Venugopal , Bauer Pavol , Bolech Mark
Published: January 2016

The economic viability of on-road wireless charging of electric vehicles (EVs) strongly depends on the choice of the inductive power transfer (IPT) system configuration (static or dynamic charging), charging power level and the percentage of road coverage of dynamic charging. In this paper, a case study is carried out to determine the expected investment costs involved in installing the on-road charging infrastructure for an electric bus fleet. Firstly, a generic methodology is described to determine the driving range of any EV (including electric buses) with any gross mass and frontal area. A dynamic power consumption model is developed for the EV, taking into account the rolling friction, acceleration, deceleration, aerodynamic drag, regenerative braking and Li-ion battery behavior. Based on the simulation results, the linear dependence of the battery state of charge (SoC) on the distance traveled is proven. Further, the impact of different IPT system parameters on driving range is incorporated. Economic implications of a combination of different IPT system parameters are explored for achieving the required driving range of 400 km, and the cost optimized solution is presented for the case study of an electric bus fleet. It is shown that the choice of charging power level and road coverage are interrelated in the economic context. The economic viability of reducing the capacity of the on-board battery as a trade-off between higher transport efficiency and larger on-road charging infrastructure is presented. Finally, important considerations, like the number of average running buses, scheduled stoppage time and on-board battery size, that make on-road charging an attractive option are explored. The cost break-up of various system components of the on-road charging scheme is estimated, and the final project cost and parameters are summarized. The specific cost of the wireless on-road charging system is found to be more expensive than the conventional trolley system at this point in time. With decreasing battery costs and a higher number of running buses, a more economically-viable system can be realized.
A Bicycle-Based Field Measurement System for the Study of Thermal Exposure in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, USA
Authors: Rajkovich Nicholas , Larsen Larissa
Published: January 2016

Collecting a fine scale of microclimate data can help to determine how physical characteristics (e.g., solar radiation, albedo, sky view factor, vegetation) contribute to human exposure to ground and air temperatures. These data also suggest how urban design strategies can reduce the negative impacts of the urban heat island effect. However, urban microclimate measurement poses substantial challenges. For example, data taken at local airports are not representative of the conditions at the neighborhood or district level because of variation in impervious surfaces, vegetation, and waste heat from vehicles and buildings. In addition, fixed weather stations cannot be deployed quickly to capture data from a heat wave. While remote sensing can provide data on land cover and ground surface temperatures, resolution and cost remain significant limitations. This paper describes the design and validation of a mobile measurement bicycle. This bicycle permits movement from space to space within a city to assess the physical and thermal properties of microclimates. The construction of the vehicle builds on investigations of the indoor thermal environment of buildings using thermal comfort carts.
Insights into Protein–Ligand Interactions: Mechanisms, Models, and Methods
Authors: Du Xing , Li Yi , Xia Yuan-Ling , Ai Shi-Meng , Liang Jing , Sang Peng , Ji Xing-Lai , Liu Shu-Qun
Published: January 2016

Molecular recognition, which is the process of biological macromolecules interacting with each other or various small molecules with a high specificity and affinity to form a specific complex, constitutes the basis of all processes in living organisms. Proteins, an important class of biological macromolecules, realize their functions through binding to themselves or other molecules. A detailed understanding of the protein–ligand interactions is therefore central to understanding biology at the molecular level. Moreover, knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for the protein-ligand recognition and binding will also facilitate the discovery, design, and development of drugs. In the present review, first, the physicochemical mechanisms underlying protein–ligand binding, including the binding kinetics, thermodynamic concepts and relationships, and binding driving forces, are introduced and rationalized. Next, three currently existing protein-ligand binding models—the “lock-and-key”, “induced fit”, and “conformational selection”—are described and their underlying thermodynamic mechanisms are discussed. Finally, the methods available for investigating protein–ligand binding affinity, including experimental and theoretical/computational approaches, are introduced, and their advantages, disadvantages, and challenges are discussed.
Subchronic Exposure to Arsenic Represses the TH/TRβ1-CaMK IV Signaling Pathway in Mouse Cerebellum
Authors: Guan Huai , Li Shuangyue , Guo Yanjie , Liu Xiaofeng , Yang Yi , Guo Jinqiu , Li Sheng , Zhang Cong , Shang Lixin , Piao Fengyuan
Published: January 2016

We previously reported that arsenic (As) impaired learning and memory by down-regulating calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV (CaMK IV) in mouse cerebellum. It has been documented that the thyroid hormone receptor (TR)/retinoid X receptor (RXR) heterodimer and thyroid hormone (TH) may be involved in the regulation of CaMK IV. To investigate whether As affects the TR/RXR heterodimer and TH, we determined As concentration in serum and cerebellum, 3,5,3’-triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxin (T4) levels in serum, and expression of CaMK IV, TR and RXR in cerebellum of mice exposed to As. Cognition function was examined by the step-down passive avoidance task and Morris water maze (MWM) tests. Morphology of the cerebellum was observed by Hematoxylin-Eosin staining under light microscope. Our results showed that the concentrations of As in the serum and cerebellum of mice both increased with increasing As-exposure level. A significant positive correlation was found between the two processes. Adeficit in learning and memory was found in the exposed mice. Abnormal morphologic changes of Purkinje cells were observed in cerebellum of the exposed mice. Moreover, the cerebellar expressions of CaMK IV protein and the TRβ gene, and TRβ1 protein were significantly lower in As-exposed mice than those in controls. Subchronic exposure to As appears to increase its level in serum and cerebella of mice, impairing learning and memory and down-regulating expression of TRβ1 as well as down-stream CaMK IV. It is also suggested that the increased As may be responsible for down-regulation of TRβ1 and CaMK IV in cerebellum and that the down-regulated TRβ1 may be involved in As-induced impairment of learning and memory via inhibiting CaMK IV and its down-stream pathway.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Inorganics in 2015
Authors:   Inorganics Editorial Office
Published: January 2016

The editors of Inorganics would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]
Strategies to Maximize the Potential of Marine Biomaterials as a Platform for Cell Therapy
Authors: Kim Hyeongmin , Lee Jaehwi
Published: January 2016

Marine biopolymers have been explored as a promising cell therapy system for efficient cell delivery and tissue engineering. However, the marine biomaterial-based systems themselves have exhibited limited performance in terms of maintenance of cell viability and functions, promotion of cell proliferation and differentiation as well as cell delivery efficiency. Thus, numerous novel strategies have been devised to improve cell therapy outcomes. The strategies include optimization of physical and biochemical properties, provision of stimuli-responsive functions, and design of platforms for efficient cell delivery and tissue engineering. These approaches have demonstrated substantial improvement of therapeutic outcomes in a variety of research settings. In this review, therefore, research progress made with marine biomaterials as a platform for cell therapy is reported along with current research directions to further advance cell therapies as a tool to cure incurable diseases.
Mental Fatigue Monitoring Using a Wearable Transparent Eye Detection System
Authors: Sampei Kota , Ogawa Miho , Torres Carlos , Sato Munehiko , Miki Norihisa
Published: January 2016

We propose mental fatigue measurement using a wearable eye detection system. The system is capable of acquiring movement of the pupil and blinking from the light reflected from the eye. The reflection is detected by dye-sensitized photovoltaic cells. Since these cells are patterned onto the eyeglass and do not require external input power, the system is notable for its lightweight and low power consumption and can be combined with other wearable devices, such as a head mounted display. We performed experiments to correlate information obtained by the eye detection system with the mental fatigue of the user. Since it is quite difficult to evaluate mental fatigue objectively and quantitatively, we assumed that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) had a strong correlation with te mental fatigue. While a subject was requested to conduct calculation tasks, the eye detection system collected his/her information that included position, velocity and total movement of the eye, and amount and frequency of blinking. Multiple regression analyses revealed the correlation between NASA-TLX and the information obtained for 3 out of 5 subjects.
Miracle Fruit (Synsepalum dulcificum) Exhibits as a Novel Anti-Hyperuricaemia Agent
Authors: Shi Yeu-Ching , Lin Kai-Sian , Jhai Yi-Fen , Lee Bao-Hong , Han Yifan , Cui Zhibin , Hsu Wei-Hsuan , Wu She-Ching
Published: January 2016

Miracle fruit (Synsepalum dulcificum) belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It can change flavors on taste buds, transforming acidic tastes to sweet. We evaluated various miracle fruit extracts, including water, butanol, ethyl acetate (EA), and hexane fractions, to determine its antioxidant effects. These extracts isolated from miracle fruit exerted potential for reduction of uric acid and inhibited xanthine oxidase activity in vitro and in monosodiumurate (MSU)-treated RAW264.7 macrophages. Moreover, we also found that the butanol extracts of miracle fruit attenuated oxonic acid potassium salt-induced hyperuricaemia in ICR mice by lowering serum uric acid levels and activating hepatic xanthine oxidase. These effects were equal to those of allopurinol, suggesting that the butanol extract of miracle fruit could be developed as a novel anti-hyperuricaemia agent or health food.
Design of a MCoTI-Based Cyclotide with Angiotensin (1-7)-Like Activity
Authors: Aboye Teshome , Meeks Christopher , Majumder Subhabrata , Shekhtman Alexander , Rodgers Kathleen , Camarero Julio
Published: January 2016

We report for the first time the design and synthesis of a novel cyclotide able to activate the unique receptor of angiotensin (1-7) (AT1-7), the MAS1 receptor. This was accomplished by grafting an AT1-7 peptide analog onto loop 6 of cyclotide MCoTI-I using isopeptide bonds to preserve the α-amino and C-terminal carboxylate groups of AT1-7, which are required for activity. The resulting cyclotide construct was able to adopt a cyclotide-like conformation and showed similar activity to that of AT1-7. This cyclotide also showed high stability in human serum thereby providing a promising lead compound for the design of a novel type of peptide-based in the treatment of cancer and myocardial infarction.
How Do European Pharmacy Students Rank Competences for Practice?
Authors: Atkinson Jeffrey , De Paepe Kristien , Sánchez Pozo Antonio , Rekkas Dimitrios , Volmer Daisy , Hirvonen Jouni , Bozic Borut , Skowron Agnieska , Mircioiu Constantin , Marcincal Annie , Koster Andries , Wilson Keith , Van Schravendijk Chris , Hočevar Sandra
Published: January 2016

European students (n = 370), academics (n = 241) and community pharmacists (n = 258) ranked 13 clusters of 68 personal and patient care competences for pharmacy practice. The results show that ranking profiles for all three groups as a rule were similar. This was especially true of the comparison between students and community pharmacists concerning patient care competences suggesting that students have a good idea of their future profession. A comparison of first and fifth (final) year students shows more awareness of patient care competences in the final year students. Differences do exist, however, between students and community pharmacists. Students—like academics—ranked competences concerned with industrial pharmacy and the quality aspects of preparing drugs, as well as scientific fundamentals of pharmacy practice, well above the rankings of community pharmacists. There were no substantial differences amongst rankings of students from different countries although some countries have more “medicinal” courses than others. This is to our knowledge the first paper to look at how, within a healthcare sectoral profession such as pharmacy, the views on the relative importance of different competences for practice of those educating the future professionals and their students, are compared to the views of working professionals.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Proteomes in 2015
Authors:   Proteomes Editorial Office
Published: January 2016

The editors of Proteomes would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]
High-Accuracy, Compact Scanning Method and Circuit for Resistive Sensor Arrays
Authors: Kim Jong-Seok , Kwon Dae-Yong , Choi Byong-Deok
Published: January 2016

The zero-potential scanning circuit is widely used as read-out circuit for resistive sensor arrays because it removes a well known problem: crosstalk current. The zero-potential scanning circuit can be divided into two groups based on type of row drivers. One type is a row driver using digital buffers. It can be easily implemented because of its simple structure, but we found that it can cause a large read-out error which originates from on-resistance of the digital buffers used in the row driver. The other type is a row driver composed of operational amplifiers. It, very accurately, reads the sensor resistance, but it uses a large number of operational amplifiers to drive rows of the sensor array; therefore, it severely increases the power consumption, cost, and system complexity. To resolve the inaccuracy or high complexity problems founded in those previous circuits, we propose a new row driver which uses only one operational amplifier to drive all rows of a sensor array with high accuracy. The measurement results with the proposed circuit to drive a 4 × 4 resistor array show that the maximum error is only 0.1% which is remarkably reduced from 30.7% of the previous counterpart.
Seismic Response and Performance Evaluation of Self-Centering LRB Isolators Installed on the CBF Building under NF Ground Motions
Authors: Seo Junwon , Hu Jong
Published: January 2016

This paper mainly treats the seismic behavior of lead-rubber bearing (LRB) isolation systems with superealstic shape memory alloy (SMA) bending bars functioning as damper and self-centering devices. The conventional LRB isolators that are usually installed at the column bases supply extra flexibility to the centrically braced frame (CBF) building with a view to elongate its vibration period, and thus make a contribution to mitigating seismic acceleration transferred from ground to structure. However, these base isolation systems are somehow susceptible to shear failure due to the lack of lateral resistance. In the construction site, they have been used to be integrated with displacement control dampers additionally withstanding lateral seismic forces. For this motivation, LRB isolation systems equipped with superelastic SMA bending bars, which possess not only excellent energy dissipation but also outstanding recentering capability, are proposed in this study. These reinforced and recentering LRB base isolators are modeled as nonlinear component springs, and then assigned into the bases of 2D frame models used for numerical simulation. Their seismic performance and capacity in the base-isolated frame building can be evaluated through nonlinear dynamic analyses conducted with historic ground motion data. After comparative study with analyses results, it is clearly shown that 2D frame models with proposed LRB isolators generally have smaller maximum displacements than those with conventional LRB isolators. Furthermore, the LRB isolation systems with superelastic SMA bending bars effectively reduce residual displacement as compared to those with steel bending bars because they provide more flexibility and recentering force to the entire building structure.
Testing New Hypotheses Regarding Ebolavirus Reservoirs
Authors: Leendertz Siv
Published: January 2016

Despite a relatively long search for the origin of ebolaviruses, their reservoirs remain elusive. Researchers might have to consider testing alternative hypotheses about how these viruses persist and emerge to advance ebolavirus research. This article aims to encourage researchers to bring forward such hypotheses, to discuss them scientifically and to open alternative research avenues regarding the origin and ecology of ebolaviruses.
MANAGERIAL ASPECTS OF SOCIAL CAPITAL / SOCIALINIO KAPITALO VADYBINIAI ASPEKTAI
Authors: Katinienė Aušra , Skačkauskienė Ilona
Published: January 2016

Changes in technology, with the speed of the process of globalizationof markets is particularly relevant issue, both from theoreticaland practical point of view, also business development,competitiveness, innovation, applications for new and existingnetworking and support. Organizations are forced to respond anddevelop their capacity to manage changes – it depends on theorganization‘s competitive success, business development opportunities.In order to remain competitive in the network societyit is necessary to improve the management of the organizationsincluding the activities of social capital. This paper analyzesthe social capital of the managerial point of view, critical of thelatest problem solving techniques. Kintant technologijoms, vykstant spartiems rinkų globalizavimo procesams ypač aktualios – ir teoriniu, ir praktiniupožiūriu problemos yra verslo plėtra, konkurencingumas, inovacijų taikymas, naujų ir esamų ryšių užmezgimas ir palaikymas.Organizacijos priverstos reaguoti ir ugdyti gebėjimus valdyti pokyčius – nuo to priklauso organizacijos konkuravimosėkmė, verslo plėtros galimybės. Siekiant išlikti konkurencingiems tinklaveikos visuomenėje reikia gerinti organizacijų valdymą,įtraukti į veiklą socialinį kapitalą. Straipsnyje analizuojama socialinis kapitalas vadybiniu požiūriu, kritiškai vertinamanaujausi problemos sprendimo būdai.
L’origine sociale des disciplines
Authors: Renisio Yann
Published: January 2016

En se basant sur la variabilité des caractéristiques sociales des étudiants dans l’ensemble des universités françaises entre 2007 et 2011, cet article montre que la seule prise en compte de l’origine sociale des inscrits restitue un espace et des regroupements disciplinaires qui correspondent fortement à la classification en groupes de sections du Conseil national des universités. Cette concordance, redoublée par d’autres caractéristiques telles que le genre et le capital scolaire, permet de formuler l’hypothèse selon laquelle les hiérarchies plus ou moins explicites entre domaines de connaissance, présentées sous la forme d’arguments d’ordres épistémologique ou pratique, font également écho à des jugements sociaux de classe.
Proximités épistémologiques et stratégies professionnelles
Authors: Renisio Yann , Zamith Pablo
Published: January 2016

Cet article analyse l’ensemble des qualifications aux fonctions de maître de conférences attribuées par le Conseil national des universités (CNU) entre 2005 et 2013 en effectuant deux types de traitement statistique. Le premier restitue un espace des relations entre disciplines sur la base des individus simultanément qualifiés par plusieurs sections du CNU. Le second rend compte du lien fort qui existe entre l’ouverture disciplinaire d’une section et les chances d’accès à un poste universitaire pour ses candidats. On soulève ainsi un enjeu important que les approches fondées sur la seule bibliométrie tendent à éluder : l’intrication des logiques académique et scientifique. Loin d’être aléatoire, la coqualification traduit à la fois des proximités épistémologiques et des stratégies d’insertion professionnelle. Dès lors, les déterminants sociaux qui favorisent, en amont, les dispositions à l’interdisciplinarité, et les logiques d’employabilité auxquelles elle semble répondre, en aval, permettent d’appréhender autrement les injonctions récentes à l’interdisciplinarité.
Transgresser les frontières en sciences humaines et sociales en France
Authors: Heilbron Johan , Bokobza Anaïs
Published: January 2016

Fondé sur une analyse secondaire de l’enquête bibliométrique du CNRS sur les revues en SHS, cet article analyse le degré d’ouverture et de fermeture de sept disciplines en sciences humaines et sociales (sociologie, anthropologie, science politique, économie/gestion, histoire, philosophie, droit). Deux dimensions sont distinguées : l’ouverture vis-à-vis d’autres disciplines (indiquée par la proportion de références à des revues extra-disciplinaires) et l’ouverture internationale (indiquée par la proportion de références à des revues non-francophones). À partir de ces indicateurs, on constate que le poids des références intra-disciplinaires est toujours considérable, et que plus on monte dans la hiérarchie des revues, plus les revues citées sont des revues intra-disciplinaires. Rien n’indique donc la « fin » des disciplines et l’avènement d’un règne transdisciplinaire. Le poids de la « disciplinarité » varie cependant selon la discipline, opposant les disciplines fermées sur elles-mêmes (notamment économie/gestion, droit) aux disciplines plus ouvertes (sociologie). De façon analogue, l’ouverture internationale varie elle aussi considérablement, opposant les disciplines peu nationales (économie/gestion) aux disciplines les plus nationales (droit, sociologie). En tous cas, les revues citées ne sont pas « trans » ou « internationales », mais en réalité binationales, c’est-à-dire françaises ou américaines.
Je ne suis pas une icône
Authors: Gaillard Françoise
Published: January 2016

On se recueille mieux dans un temple vide. Pas plus que nos principes républicains, l’esprit de Charlie n’a besoin, pour agir, d’idoles ou d’amulettes. Délestons-les, de grâce, de toutes ces pesanteurs.
Rhétorique de l’unanimisme
Authors: d’Huy Pierre
Published: January 2016

Par construction l’unanimité ne peut être analysée : aussitôt entreprise, l’analyse la dément et la détruit. On peut du moins déconstruire la rhétorique qui en fait un usage abusif.
On ne badine pas avec l’humour
Authors: Murat Pierre
Published: January 2016

Entre le gros rire des simples et l’ironie bienveillante du sage qui se prend lui-même pour cible, le demi-savant rit de ce qui le dépasse mais prend au sérieux son insuffisante lucidité.
Charlie n’est pas Je
Authors: Ratte Philippe
Published: January 2016

Et si ces JE et si ce NOUS n’étaient en dernière analyse que des ON ?
La minute de silence
Authors: Billard Jacques
Published: January 2016

Si l’école s’est trouvée prise pour cible et prise de court, en porte-à-faux et à contre-emploi, c’est qu’elle n’est pas ce qu’elle devrait être. Par la faute de la société incivile.
La troisième génération
Authors: de Biasi Pierre-Marc
Published: January 2016

D’habitude, la troisième génération d’immigrés est la mieux intégrée, via l’école, le travail, et les amis. Ce n’est plus le cas, elle a fait dissidence.
La leçon tunisienne
Authors: Béji Hélé
Published: January 2016

Sur l’islam à l’épreuve du politique, l’expérience tunisienne vaut le détour, tant elle est riche d’enseignements. À commencer par un idéal de soi plus fort que la haine des autres.
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty and Work-Related Outcomes
Authors: Garcia Grant H. , Taylor Samuel A. , Mahony Gregory T. , DePalma Brian J. , Grawe Brian M. , Nguyen Joseph , Dines Joshua S. , Dines David M. , Warren Russell F. , Craig Edward V. , Gulotta Lawrence V.
Published: January 2016

The average retirement age is increasing, and the indications for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) are being broadened. The goal of the current study was to determine objective findings for rate of return to work and time to return to work after RTSA. The authors performed retrospective data collection for consecutive patients who underwent RTSA at their institution between 2007 and 2013. All patients were asked to complete a questionnaire about their work history and their ability to participate in work-related activities. A total of 40 patients reported working before surgery. Average patient age was 74.7 years (range, 56–82 years). Average follow-up was 2.6 years (range, 1–4.7 years). Average American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score improved from 34.0 to 81.7 (
P
<.001). Average visual analog scale pain score decreased from 6.5 to 0.7 (
P
<.001). Most patients (65.4%) classified their job as sedentary, 34.6% classified their job as light work, and no patients classified their job as heavy work. Of patients who worked preoperatively, 65% (n=26) returned to work after RTSA. Only a previous diagnosis of heart disease affected return to work (
P
=.04). Overall, average time to return to work was 2.3 months (range, 0.5–11 months). Patients with sedentary jobs returned to work more quickly (1.4 months) than those with light work (4.0 months). A total of 96.2% of patients reported good to excellent surgical outcomes. Of patients who worked before RTSA, 65% were still working at final follow-up. Only 5% of patients retired for reasons attributed to the operated shoulder. On average, patients returned to work less than 3 months after surgery. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(2):e230–e235.]
Effect of Microfracture on Meniscal Tear Healing in a Goat (
Capra hircus
) Model
Authors: Howarth William R. , Brochard Kevin , Campbell Scot E. , Grogan Brian F.
Published: January 2016

Meniscal injuries are an extremely common cause of knee pain. Meniscal repairs performed with concomitant anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction appear to heal at a higher rate than meniscal repairs performed in isolation. This may be due in part to the release of marrow elements into the knee and the time of meniscal repair. In cases of isolated meniscal repair, some orthopedic surgeons use microfracture to release marrow elements into the joint as an adjunct to enhance meniscal healing. This study evaluated rates of meniscal tear healing with or without the performance of microfracture in a goat (
Capra hircus
) model. Forty castrated young adult male goats underwent either a horizontal or a longitudinal 1.0-cm meniscal tear with or without microfracture. All procedures were performed open, in a bloodless field. Meniscal tears were created in the peripheral half of the body of the medial meniscus. The goats were euthanized at 6 months, and meniscal tears were analyzed and classified as complete healing, partial healing, or no healing by direct visualization. A probe was used as an aid to evaluate and classify the meniscal tears. Twenty (87%) of 23 goat meniscal tears showed at least partial healing when performed with concomitant microfracture. Only 5 (29%) of 17 menisci showed any healing in goats that did not receive microfracture. This difference in healing rates was statistically significant (
P
<.001). Fifteen (65%) meniscal tears accomplished with microfracture were completely healed, whereas only 2 (12%) menisci showed complete healing without microfracture (
P
<.001). The results of this study suggest that the release of bone marrow elements into the knee by microfracture improves meniscal healing rates. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(2):105–110.]
Virtual TeamSTEPPS
®
Simulations Produce Teamwork Attitude Changes Among Health Professions Students
Authors: Sweigart Linda I. , Umoren Rachel A. , Scott Patrician J. , Carlton Kay Hodson , Jones James A. , Truman Barbara , Gossett Evalyn J.
Published: January 2016

Background:

The majority of the estimated 400,000 or more patient deaths per year in the United States are from preventable medical errors due to poor communication. Team training programs have been established to teach teamwork skills to health professions students. However, it is often challenging to provide this training at a physical site. A brief intervention using a virtual learning environment with TeamSTEPPS
®
-based scenarios is described.

Method:

Using a pretest–posttest design, the effects on teamwork attitudes in 109 health professional students from two institutions and multiple disciplines were measured using the TeamSTEPPS Teamwork Attitudes questionnaire.

Results:

Participants showed significant attitude changes in the categories of leadership, situation monitoring, mutual support, and communication (
p
⩽ .05), with significance in four of the six indicator attitudes in the communication section at the
p
⩽ .001 level.

Conclusion:

These findings indicate the potential impact that virtual learning experiences may have on teamwork attitudes in learners across professions on multiple campuses. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2016;55(1):31–35.]
Preparing Students for Success on Examinations: Readiness Assurance Tests in a Graduate-Level Statistics Course
Authors: Bartlett Ellis Rebecca J. , Carter-Harris Lisa , MacLaughlin Pam
Published: January 2016

Background:

Formative feedback is one way to foster students' readiness for statistics examinations.

Method:

The use of Readiness Assurance Tests was examined as an educational intervention in which feedback was provided for both correct and incorrect responses in a graduate-level statistics course. Examination scores in the intervention group (
n
= 56) were compared with those in a control group (
n
= 42).

Results:

Intervention group examination scores significantly improved from 75.92 ± 14.52 on the Readiness Assurance Test to 90.06 ± 7.06,
p
< .001, on the midterm, and final examination scores improved from 78.23 ± 17.29 to 85.6 ± 6.98,
p
= .002. Intervention group midterm scores were significantly higher than those of the control group (90.06 ± 7.06 versus 79.7 ± 11.6,
p
< .001); however, no differences were found between the groups on the final examination (85.35 ± 9.46 versus 85.6 ± 6.98,
p
= .91).

Conclusion:

Use of Readiness Assurance Tests was an effective modality to increase student self-efficacy, learning experience, and, relative to a control group, midterm examination performance in statistics. [
J Nurs Educ.
2016;55(1):41–44.]
Use of a Mobile Device Simulation as a Preclass Active Learning Exercise
Authors: Keegan Robert D. , Oliver M. Cecile , Stanfill Teresa J. , Stevens Kevin V. , Brown Gary R. , Ebinger Michael , Gay John M.
Published: January 2016

Background:

Research shows that preclass activities introducing new material can increase student performance. In an effort to engage students in an active learning, preclass activity, the authors developed a mobile application.

Method:

Eighty-four nursing students were assigned a preclass reading exercise, whereas 32 students completed the preclass simulation scenario on their mobile device. All students completed the same electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) quiz 1 week following the lecture. The effects of reading or simulation on student quiz performance was evaluated with a student's paired
t
test, using an alpha of .05.

Results:

Students completing the preclass simulation scored higher on the EFM quiz, compared with students assigned the preclass reading (85% versus 70% correct answers,
p
= .01). Student survey data indicated that the mobile device simulation was perceived as an engaging and desirable instructional tool.

Conclusion:

Nursing students completing the mobile device EFM preclass simulation outperformed the students who were given the traditional reading assignment. [
J Nurs Educ.
2016;55(1):56–59.]
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted LASIK Flap Complications
Authors: Santos Allisson Mario dos , Torricelli Andre A. M. , Marino Gustavo K. , Garcia Renato , Netto Marcelo V. , Bechara Samir J. , Wilson Steven E.
Published: January 2016

PURPOSE:

To discuss intraoperative and postoperative femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK flap complications and their management.

METHODS:

Review of published literature.

RESULTS:

Flap creation is a critical step in LASIK. The femtosecond laser has improved the overall predictability and safety of the lamellar incision, but complications can still occur during or after flap creation. Although many complications (eg, epithelial ingrowth and flap striae) were reduced with the femtosecond laser application, other specific complications have emerged, such as vertical gas breakthrough, opaque bubble layer, and transient light-sensitivity syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS:

The application of femtosecond laser technology to LASIK flap creation has increased greatly since its introduction. These lasers have improved the safety and predictability of the lamellar incision step. The majority of the femtosecond laser-assisted flap complications can be well managed without significant effects on refractive outcomes.

[
J Refract Surg.
2016;32(1):52–59.]
La utilización de las imágenes en ‘El Debate’ (1910-1936) y su importancia en el desarrollo de la ‘maqueta horizontal’
Authors: Pérez Cuadrado Pedro
Published: January 2016

Le passage du XIXe au XXe siècle est marqué quant à l'évolution des procédés de fabrication de la presse par l'apparition d'avancées technologiques ponctuelles permettant la transition d'une presse verticale et pesante vers une presse caractérisée par une mise en page et un graphisme plus horizontaux et où la prolifération des images devient essentielle. Cette étude a pour but d'analyser l'utilisation des images dans le quotidien El Debate sur l'ensemble de son existence, soit le premier tiers du XXe siècle, et de définir, à partir d'une méthodologie essentiellement quantitative, l'importance de l'élément graphique dans les structures formelles des pages de ce journal.
La mise en image de la Première guerre carliste : le rôle de la presse et des revues illustrées
Authors: Blanchard Rubio Laetitia
Published: January 2016

Lorsque débute la Première guerre carliste en Espagne, c’est là que paraît se jouer le sort de l’absolutisme européen, aux prises avec le libéralisme conquérant. Les acteurs de ce conflit ainsi que l’écho de certaines batailles sont relayés dans l’opinion publique européenne, essentiellement par la presse et les revues, mais aussi au travers de nombreux ouvrages de circonstance. Cette guerre a ainsi donné lieu à de nombreux écrits mais également à des images dans un siècle qui connaît l’essor de la gravure. La gravure, telle que nous l’envisageons dans cette étude, se présente comme un nouveau phénomène de communication sociale et comme le système graphique dominant sur la scène culturelle de l’époque. Il s’agira dans cette étude de voir dans quel type de medias ont été diffusées les gravures de la Première guerre carliste et d’évaluer l’influence de ces images dans l’intelligibilité de ce conflit et dans l’élaboration d’un imaginaire collectif.
Agile Assessment Methods and Approaches
Authors: Nafchi Mina Ziaei , Gandomani Taghi Javdani
Published: January 2016

Agile methods are widely used in software companies in recent years. Many software companies are replacing their traditional development methods with agile methods. Nonetheless, measuring agility that they have achieved has been a topic of debate. Software teams and companies need to know how agile they are or how much is the agility degree of their organization. Unlike traditional methods in software development, there is no standard or universal model (like CMM/CMMI) to measure maturity of agile teams and software companies. So far, only a few methods and tools have been proposed to measure the agility of software companies. The main aim of this chapter is introducing the structure and main features of the existing agile assessment methods and providing a brief discussion on drawbacks of these methods. This chapter tries to elucidate the actual position of agility measurement methods in measuring agility degree of companies who are trying to adapt to agile methods and practices.
The Nexus of M-Health and Self-Efficacy
Authors: Moumtzoglou Anastasius S.
Published: January 2016

Self-care emerged from the concept of health promotion in the 1970s while from 2000 onwards the term ‘self-management' gained popularity, with a greater focus on long-term conditions and the trend towards more holistic models of care. Although ‘self-management' and ‘self-care' are often used interchangeably, a distinction between the two concepts can be made. Both can be considered in terms of a continuum, with self-care at one end as ‘normal activity' and self-management an extension of this. Self-management support is the assistance given to patients in order to encourage daily decisions that improve health-related behaviors and clinical outcomes. Self-efficacy, which is grounded in social cognitive theory, is defined as confidence in one's ability to perform given tasks. The chapter envisions these concepts on a continuum with one pole representing mobile health and the other self-efficacy. It concludes that self-management support is the nexus of mobile health and self-efficacy.
Infiltration of CCR2+Ly6Chigh Proinflammatory Monocytes and Neutrophils into the Central Nervous System Is Modulated by Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in a Model of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Jiang Wei , St-Pierre Stéphanie , Roy Patrick , Morley Barbara J. , Hao Junwei , Simard Alain R.
Published: January 2016

Myeloid cells, including proinflammatory monocytes and neutrophils, have important roles in the pathology of multiple sclerosis and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). These cells infiltrate the CNS in the early stages of disease development and contribute to the inflammatory response that is associated with symptom severity. It is thus crucial to identify and understand new mechanisms that can regulate the CNS infiltration of proinflammatory myeloid cells. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) have been increasingly studied for their immune-regulatory properties. In this study, we assessed the ability of nicotine, an nAChR ligand, to modulate proinflammatory myeloid cell numbers within the bone marrow, spleen, blood, and CNS of EAE mice. We found that nicotine significantly inhibits the infiltration of proinflammatory monocytes and neutrophils into the CNS at time points where these cells are known to play critical roles in disease pathology. In contrast, nicotine does not affect the expansion of other monocytes. We also show that nicotine exerts these effects by acting on α7 and α9 nAChR subtypes. Finally, mRNA transcript levels for CCL2 and CXCL2, chemokines involved in the chemotaxis of proinflammatory monocytes and neutrophils, respectively, are reduced in the brain of nicotine-treated EAE mice before the massive infiltration of these cells. Taken together, our data provide evidence that nAChRs can regulate proinflammatory cell infiltration into the CNS, which could be of significant value for the treatment of neuroinflammatory disorders.
Interplay between Target Sequences and Repair Pathways Determines Distinct Outcomes of AID-Initiated Lesions
Authors: Chen Zhangguo , Eder Maxwell D. , Elos Mihret T. , Viboolsittiseri Sawanee S. , Chen Xiaomi , Wang Jing H.
Published: January 2016

Activation-induced deaminase (AID) functions by deaminating cytosines and causing U:G mismatches, a rate-limiting step of Ab gene diversification. However, precise mechanisms regulating AID deamination frequency remain incompletely understood. Moreover, it is not known whether different sequence contexts influence the preferential access of mismatch repair or uracil glycosylase (UNG) to AID-initiated U:G mismatches. In this study, we employed two knock-in models to directly compare the mutability of core Sμ and VDJ exon sequences and their ability to regulate AID deamination and subsequent repair process. We find that the switch (S) region is a much more efficient AID deamination target than the V region. Igh locus AID-initiated lesions are processed by error-free and error-prone repair. S region U:G mismatches are preferentially accessed by UNG, leading to more UNG-dependent deletions, enhanced by mismatch repair deficiency. V region mutation hotspots are largely determined by AID deamination. Recurrent and conserved S region motifs potentially function as spacers between AID deamination hotspots. We conclude that the pattern of mutation hotspots and DNA break generation is influenced by sequence-intrinsic properties, which regulate AID deamination and affect the preferential access of downstream repair. Our studies reveal an evolutionarily conserved role for substrate sequences in regulating Ab gene diversity and AID targeting specificity.
Extensive CD4 and CD8 T Cell Cross-Reactivity between Alphaherpesviruses
Authors: Jing Lichen , Laing Kerry J. , Dong Lichun , Russell Ronnie M. , Barlow Russell S. , Haas Juergen G. , Ramchandani Meena S. , Johnston Christine , Buus Soren , Redwood Alec J. , White Katie D. , Mallal Simon A. , Phillips Elizabeth J. , Posavad Christine M. , Wald Anna , Koelle David M.
Published: January 2016

The Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily includes HSV types 1 and 2 and the sequence-divergent pathogen varicella zoster virus (VZV). T cells, controlled by TCR and HLA molecules that tolerate limited epitope amino acid variation, might cross-react between these microbes. We show that memory PBMC expansion with either HSV or VZV enriches for CD4 T cell lines that recognize the other agent at the whole-virus, protein, and peptide levels, consistent with bidirectional cross-reactivity. HSV-specific CD4 T cells recovered from HSV-seronegative persons can be explained, in part, by such VZV cross-reactivity. HSV-1–reactive CD8 T cells also cross-react with VZV-infected cells, full-length VZV proteins, and VZV peptides, as well as kill VZV-infected dermal fibroblasts. Mono- and cross-reactive CD8 T cells use distinct TCRB CDR3 sequences. Cross-reactivity to VZV is reconstituted by cloning and expressing TCRA/TCRB receptors from T cells that are initially isolated using HSV reagents. Overall, we define 13 novel CD4 and CD8 HSV–VZV cross-reactive epitopes and strongly imply additional cross-reactive peptide sets. Viral proteins can harbor both CD4 and CD8 HSV/VZV cross-reactive epitopes. Quantitative estimates of HSV/VZV cross-reactivity for both CD4 and CD8 T cells vary from 10 to 50%. Based on these findings, we hypothesize that host herpesvirus immune history may influence the pathogenesis and clinical outcome of subsequent infections or vaccinations for related pathogens and that cross-reactive epitopes and TCRs may be useful for multi-alphaherpesvirus vaccine design and adoptive cellular therapy.
Consensus Statement of Multisocietary Task Force Prescription of physical exercise in the cardiological environment - Executive Summary (Fourth part)
Authors: Giada Franco , Carlon Roberto
Published: January 2016

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Isolated congenital coronary fistula in adult population: discussion a clinical case and review of current literature
Authors: Manes Maria Teresa , Pavan D. , Chiatto M. , Serafini Oscar , Meringolo G. , Buffon A.
Published: January 2016

We describe a case of a 56 year-old man with a history of chest pain. No evidence of myocardial ischemia or arrhytmias was observed. Echocardiographic examination in Emergency Department evidenced aortic root dilatation. Angio CT excluded aortic dissection. Trans esophageous Echocardiography (TEE) correctly identified an arterial fistula between the right coronary artery and superior vena cava, confirmed by angio CT 3-D reconstruction and coronarography. The definitive diagnosis was made after integrated approach (using TTE, TEE, CT, coronarography). The anatomic features of the fistula and the aortic root were examinated. Actually the patient is being followed with serial clinical and echocardiography examination for monitoring hemodynamic overload by fistula and size of aortic root for potential surgical correction. Current literature for incidence, diagnosis and the treatment of coronary fistulas is discussed.
Two cases of asbestosis and one case of rounded atelectasis due to non-occupational asbestos exposure
Authors: Candura S.M. , Binarelli A. , Ragno G. , Scafa F.
Published: January 2016

Asbestos is a well-known cause of several neoplastic (malignant mesothelioma, lung cancer) and non-neoplastic (asbestosis, pleuropathies) occupational diseases. Lower-level exposure in the general environment may induce pleural plaques and thickenings, and is associated with an increased mesothelioma risk. We present two patients (a 68-year-old man and a 72-year-old woman) who developed asbestosis (in association with pleural plaques and calcifications), and a 78-year-old man who developed rounded atelectasis (with pleural plaques and benign effusion), after living for several decades in the proximity of large Italian asbestos-cement plant. None of them had been exposed to asbestos occupationally. Besides living in a contaminated area, the woman used to clean the work clothes of her brother, who was employed in the local asbestos factory. The three cases indicate that non-neoplastic, long-latency asbestos-related diseases which are usually observed as a consequence of occupational exposures, may rarely develop in subjects living in contaminated geographical sites and buildings. These unusual environmental diseases raise the diagnostic problem of differentiating them from other, more common respiratory illnesses, and impose the duties of patient notification, assessment and follow-up, to assess the possibility of progression of disease and increased neoplastic risk.
NEWSLETTER - July 2008
Authors: Griffo Raffaele
Published: January 2016

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