bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructural Brain and Multivoxel Spectroscopy in Very Low Birth Weight Infants Related to Insulin-Like Growth Factor Concentration and Early Growth
Authors: Okuma Cecilia , Hernández M. Isabel , Rodríguez Pablo , Flores Rodrigo , Avila Alejandra , Cavada Gabriel , Kopplin Erika , Rossel Katherine , Iñiguez Germán , Mericq Verónica
Published: April 2013

Background: Very low birth weight (VLBW) children have higher risk of neurologic disabilities and growth factors are essential for brain maturation. Aim: To assess whether there are differences in neurologic findings, psychometric parameters and microstructural brain morphology in 1-year-old VLBW infants versus term healthy controls and whether these differences are related to hormonal/growth changes. Methods: Prospective anthropometry, prefeed venous blood sample [insulin, insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II), leptin, glucose], neurologic and imaging assessment, at age 1 year in 34 VLBW infants (12 SGA; 10 M) and 10 healthy term controls (5 M). Results: IGF-I concentrations at 1 month of corrected age were 20% lower in SGA versus appropriate for gestational age VLBW (p < 0.02). Gray and white matter volume and fractional anisotropy in 15/27 regions were decreased (p < 0.001). Abnormal spectroscopy was observed in 4 zones in VLBW versus term controls (p < 0.001). Some of these changes were associated with different periods of first-year growth and IGF-I/IGF-II, leptin and HOMA-IR. Conclusions: VLBW infants show differences in brain volumes and microstructural brain morphology as compared to term controls, changes related to circulating growth factor and anthropometry changes in the first year. This apparent reorganization of the developing brain offers a unique opportunity to investigate the relationship between changes in cortical anatomy, cognitive and social impairments and periods of early growth.
A Randomized Clinical Trial of the Anti-Caries Efficacy of 5,000 Compared to 1,450 ppm Fluoridated Toothpaste on Root Caries Lesions in Elderly Disabled Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Ekstrand K.R. , Poulsen J.E. , Hede B. , Twetman S. , Qvist V. , Ellwood R.P.
Published: April 2013

Root caries is prevalent in elderly disabled nursing home residents in Denmark. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of tooth brushing with 5,000 versus 1,450 ppm of fluoridated toothpaste (F-toothpaste) for controlling root caries in nursing home residents. The duration of the study was 8 months. Elderly disabled residents (n = 176) in 6 nursing homes in the Copenhagen area consented to take part in the study. They were randomly assigned to use one of the two toothpastes. Both groups had their teeth brushed twice a day by the nursing staff. A total of 125 residents completed the study. Baseline and follow-up clinical examinations were performed by one calibrated examiner. Texture, contour, location and colour of root caries lesions were used to evaluate lesion activity. No differences (p values >0.16) were noted in the baseline examination with regards to age, mouth dryness, wearing of partial or full dentures in one of the jaws, occurrence of plaque and active (2.61 vs. 2.67; SD, 1.7 vs.1.8) or arrested lesions (0.62 vs. 0.63; SD, 1.7 vs. 1.7) between the 5,000 and the 1,450 ppm fluoride groups, respectively. Mean numbers of active root caries lesions at the follow-up examination were 1.05 (2.76) versus 2.55 (1.91) and mean numbers of arrested caries lesions were 2.13 (1.68) versus 0.61 (1.76) in the 5,000 and the 1,450 ppm fluoride groups, respectively (p < 0.001). To conclude, 5,000 ppm F-toothpaste is significantly more effective for controlling root caries lesion progression and promoting remineralization compared to 1,450 ppm F-toothpaste.
Breast Cancer Patients' Views on the Use of Genomic Testing to Guide Decisions about Their Postoperative Chemotherapy
Authors: Seror V. , Marino P. , Bertucci F. , Mancini J. , Extra J.-M. , Ferrero J.-M. , Bachelot T. , Viens P. , Julian-Reynier C.
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: Incorporating gene expression profiling into routine clinical practices is beginning to be recommended as part of breast cancer treatment. The aim of the present study was to investigate the decision-making involved in genomic testing from the perspective of patients enrolled in a genomics-based clinical trial of adjuvant chemotherapy. Methods: The prospective SA02 clinical trial was designed to assess the clinical benefits of a genomic test on axillary lymph node-positive (N+) early breast cancer patients. The patients enrolled in the SA02 trial were defined by ‘good prognosis' genomic test results consistent with the delivery of postoperative anthracycline-based chemotherapy without taxane. The present companion study was presented by oncologists to 64 out of the 88 patients enrolled. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Results: The response rate was 67% (questionnaires were returned 35 days on average after enrolment in the trial). Only 33% of the respondents accurately recalled or described their genomic test results. Although most N+ patients classically undergo anthracycline/taxane adjuvant chemotherapy, 23% of the present respondents did not recall participating in the clinical study involving chemotherapy without taxanes. Recall was mainly associated with higher risk perception of chemotherapy-related side effects and better understanding of test results. Among the respondents who recalled participating in the trial, 39% experienced decisional conflicts. Conclusions: Devoting greater efforts to explaining genomic test results to patients could be highly relevant in terms of the trade-off between the risk of unnecessary chemotherapy-related side effects and the loss of survival time possibly resulting from less aggressive treatment.
Long-Term Management of a Patient with Well-Differentiated Pulmonary Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Beck Thaddeus , Mantooth Ryan
Published: April 2013

Pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are rare, and very few published reports have described the long-term treatment of patients with this disease. Current treatment options for patients with metastatic well-differentiated pulmonary NET are limited. This case report details the long-term treatment of a 62-year-old female patient with well-differentiated pulmonary NET and multiple liver metastases. The heavily pretreated patient achieved radiographic stability in measurable disease, improvement in nonmeasurable disease, and symptomatic improvement over 3 years while receiving the combination of everolimus and octreotide long-acting repeatable (LAR). Treatment was well tolerated without mucositis, rash, or pneumonitis. This case report suggests that the combination of everolimus and octreotide LAR may be a novel treatment option for heavily pretreated patients with metastatic well-differentiated pulmonary NET, but these findings require further analysis in clinical trials.
Estrogen Receptor- and Progesterone Receptor-Positive Diffuse Sclerosing Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Kinoshita Yuichi , Takasu Kosho , Yuri Takashi , Yoshizawa Kastuhiko , Emoto Yuko , Tsubura Airo , Shikata Nobuaki
Published: April 2013

The diffuse sclerosing variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (DSV-PTC) is a relatively rare tumor. We herein report the case of young woman with DSV-PTC who developed cervical lymph node recurrence 7 years after the initial surgery. A 15-year-old female patient with no medical or family history of thyroid tumors developed a thyroid neoplasm in the right lobe. Right thyroidectomy and regional lymphadenectomy were performed, and the tumor was diagnosed as DSV-PTC. She was followed up as an outpatient. Seven years after the surgery, cervical lymph node recurrence developed. On microscopic examination, the thyroid tumor showed a papillary growth pattern with numerous psammoma bodies and distinct fibrosis. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor positive with reduced membranous expression of E-cadherin and were intermingled with S-100-positive dendritic/Langerhans cells. DSV-PTC is characterized by a strong tendency for invasion and metastasis. Thus, accurate diagnosis is clinically important, and a morphological and immunohistochemical understanding of DSV-PTC is necessary.
Interferon-α Treatment for Growing Teratoma Syndrome of the Testis
Authors: Inoue Masahiro , Hisasue Shin-ichi , Nagae Mika , China Toshiyuki , Saito Keisuke , Isotani Shuji , Yamaguchi Raizo , Ide Hisamitsu , Muto Satoru , Horie Shigeo
Published: April 2013

A 23-year-old man with a right scrotal mass and back pain was referred for further treatment after right radical orchiectomy for testicular cancer. CT scans brought by the patient showed extensive metastasis to the retroperitoneal lymph nodes with no lung involvement. α-Fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin were elevated preoperatively (384 ng/ml and 112 mIU/ml, respectively). Confirmation of the histopathologic examination revealed a mixed germ cell tumor (95% immature teratoma and 5% embryonal carcinoma). We started the patient on chemotherapy with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP). After a single course, tumor markers began to normalize, but there was radiologic evidence of continued growth of the retroperitoneal mass and new metastases in the lung. The patient was given 2 courses of salvage chemotherapy with etoposide, ifosfamide, and cisplatin (VIP). However, the mass and lung metastases continued to progress, and the patient was growing rapidly intolerant of the side effects of treatment (i.e., nausea, appetite loss, and pancytopenia). After thorough discussion with the patient and his family, we decided to start the patient on interferon (IFN)-α therapy. Natural, nonrecombinant IFN-α (OIF, Otsuka, Japan) 5,000,000 IU was administered twice weekly with approval of the ethics committee of our institution. The patient responded moderately with marked deceleration of tumor growth and stabilization of the lung metastases. He is alive and well at 16 months on IFN-α therapy.
Central Pulse Pressure Is an Independent Determinant of Vascular Remodeling in the Retinal Circulation
Authors: Ott Christian , Raff Ulrike , Harazny Joanna M. , Michelson Georg , Schmieder Roland E.
Published: April 2013

Pulse pressure has been recognized as a risk factor for stroke. Moreover, it was shown that central pulse pressure relates more strongly to vascular disease and outcome than (peripheral) brachial pulse pressure. Because vascular remodeling in the retinal circulation mirrors the 1 in the cerebral circulation and represents an easy, noninvasive possibility to assess microvascular changes in humans, we analyzed the impact of central pulse pressure on retinal vascular structure in humans. The study cohort comprised 135 nondiabetic patients across a wide range of blood pressure values. Parameter of retinal arteriolar remodeling (wall-to-lumen ratio) was assessed noninvasively and in vivo by scanning laser Doppler flowmetry. Central pulse pressure and augmentation index normalized to a heart rate of 75 beats per minute were assessed by pulse wave analysis. Central pulse pressure correlated with wall-to-lumen ratio (
r
=0.302;
P
<0.001), central augmentation index normalized to a heart rate of 75 beats per minute correlated with wall-to-lumen ratio (
r
=0.190;
P
=0.028), and in accordance pulse pressure amplification (peripheral pulse pressure/central pulse pressure) was negatively correlated with wall-to-lumen ratio (
r
=−0.223;
P
=0.009). In contrast, central mean arterial pressure was not correlated with wall-to-lumen ratio (
r
=0.110;
P
=0.203). Multiple regression analysis revealed an independent relationship between wall-to-lumen ratio and central pulse pressure (β=0.277;
P
=0.009), but not with other classical cardiovascular risk factors. Thus, central pulse pressure, indicative of changes in large conduit arteries is an independent determinant of vascular remodeling in small retinal arterioles. Such a relationship indicates a coupling and crosstalk between the microvascular and macrovascular changes attributable to hypertension.
A revision of the Rhododendron taipaoense complex (subg. Tsutsusi sect. Tsutsusi, Ericaceae), based on observations of morphological characters and seed micromorphology
Authors: JIN XIAO-FENG , DING BING-YANG , ZHOU YING-YING , JIN SHUI-HU , YANG WANG-WEI
Published: April 2013

In this paper, we present a revision of the Rhododenron taipaoense complex, including R. taipaoense and eight other named species, based on literature survey, field collections and observations, inspection of herbarium specimens, statistical analysis of morphological characters, and SEM observation of seed shape and testa. We evaluated all characters that have previously been used to diagnose these species: indumentum of young shoots and abaxial surfaces of leaves; filament dimensions; style base; leaf color, size, and apex shape; flower number per inflorescence; corolla length; and length of the stamen and pistil. Cluster analysis of 146 individuals showed that individuals from different populations are interdigitated, irrespective of traditional taxonomic limits. Analysis of morphological data using principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) likewise shows a continual gradation between populations, rather than disjunctures between named species. Consequently, only one species is recognized in the present paper, and R. apricum, R. falcinellum (R. apricum var. falcinellum), R. florulentum, R. hepticum, R. piceum, R. rufulum, R. spadiceum, and R. rufoindumentum (nom. nud.) are all reduced to synonyms of R. taipaoense.
Validation of the name Persea himalayensis (Lauraceae)
Authors: KUMAR VENKATACHALAM SAMPATH , GANGOPADHYAY MOHAN
Published: April 2013

In the publication of the new species “Persea himalayaensis”, Gangopadhyay (2006) did not cite a nomenclatural type and thus the species name was not validly published. In an attempt to correct the situation, we (Gangopadhyay & Kumar 2009) referred to the 2006 publication and republished “Persea himalayaensis”. At that time, it was assumed that for validation of such names lectotypification was necessary. Accordingly, we designated “Wall. Num. List no. 2607B” (CAL) as the “lectotype”. We did not realize that our validation attempt amounted to publishing the name of a new species and that a holotype citation was essential (Vienna Code Art. 37.6 ICBN, McNeill et al. 2006).
Social Isolation in America: An Artifact
Authors: Paik Anthony , Sanchagrin Kenneth
Published: April 2013

This article examines whether existing estimates of network size and social isolation, drawn from egocentric name generators across several representative samples, suffer from systematic biases linked to interviewers. Using several analytic approaches, we find that estimates of network size found in the 2004 and 2010 General Social Surveys (GSS), as well as other representative samples, were affected by significant interviewer effects. Across these surveys, we find a negative correlation between interviewer effects and mean network size. In the 2004 GSS, levels of social connectivity are strongly linked to interviewer-level variation and reflect the fact that some interviewers obtained highly improbable levels of social isolation. In the 2010 GSS, we observe larger interviewer effects in two versions of the questionnaire in which training and fatigue effects among interviewers were more likely. Results support the argument that many estimates of social connectivity are biased by interviewer effects. Some interviewers’ failure to elicit network data makes inferences, such as the argument that networks have become smaller, an artifact. Overall, this study highlights the importance of interviewer effects for network data collection and raises questions about other survey items with similar issues.
Association of Remodeling With Endothelial Shear Stress, Plaque Elasticity, and Volume in Coronary Arteries
Authors: Katranas Sotirios A. , Kelekis Anastasios L. , Antoniadis Antonios P. , Chatzizisis Yiannis S. , Giannoglou George D.
Published: April 2013

We sought to noninvasively assess the relationship between arterial remodeling, endothelial shear stress (ESS), and wall stiffness in coronary arteries. We studied 28 coronary arteries from 22 patients undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). The ESS was calculated in 2-mm long segments using computational fluid dynamics. Local remodeling, plaque dimensions, and local wall stiffness were assessed in each segment. The ESS was lower in the regions of excessive expansive remodeling versus compensatory expansive versus inadequate expansive versus constrictive remodeling. Areas of decreased wall stiffness more frequently exhibited excessive expansive remodeling. Plaque volume was higher in segments showing excessive expansive and inadequate remodeling than segments with constrictive remodeling. In conclusion, CCTA enables the noninvasive assessment of coronary hemodynamics and arterial/plaque morphology. Excessive expansive remodeling is associated with high-risk plaque features, such as low ESS, decreased plaque stiffness, and increased plaque volume. This methodology may be useful in the risk assessment of individual coronary lesions.
Surface Degradation of Dental Ceramics as a Function of Environmental pH
Authors: Esquivel-Upshaw J.F. , Dieng F.Y. , Clark A.E. , Neal D. , Anusavice K.J.
Published: April 2013

We tested the hypotheses that glass-ceramic veneers and overglazes degrade by ion exchange in an acidic environment, and that they degrade by breakdown of the silica network in a basic environment. Disk specimens of glass-ceramic veneer and glaze were fabricated and immersed in pH 2, 7, or 10 buffer solutions, for 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, and 30 days. Each specimen was placed in a shaker bath containing de-ionized distilled water at 80°C. Concentrations of Al3+, Ca2+, Zn2+, Li2+, and Si4+ were analyzed by means of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP/AES). Statistical analyses were performed by factorial ANOVA. Significant differences occurred among leached ion concentrations as a function of material type, solution pH, and exposure time. A substantial release of Si occurred at pH 10 over time, leading to a breakdown of the glass phase. At pH 2, dissolution was controlled by an ionic exchange mechanism. We conclude that ceramic veneers and glazes may be susceptible to considerable degradation in low- and high-pH buffer solutions.
The Role of Sexual Orientation in School-Based Victimization
Authors: Toomey Russell B. , Russell Stephen T.
Published: April 2013

School-based victimization is associated with poorer developmental, academic, and health outcomes. This meta-analytic review compared the mean levels of school-based victimization experienced by sexual minority youth to those of heterosexual youth, and examined moderators of this difference. Results from 18 independent studies ( N = 56,752 participants) suggest that sexual minority youth experience moderately higher levels of school-based victimization compared to heterosexual youth ( d = 0.33). This effect varied by two study characteristics: the average effect size increased over time and was larger in studies that had a greater proportion of male participants. Results highlight the need for future research on school-based victimization to include measures of sexual orientation and for interventions to include a component that addresses sexual orientation.
Overcoming adversity: Trauma in the lives of music performers and composers
Authors: Swart Inette
Published: April 2013

Music therapy literature describes how music is used in the facilitation of healing from psychological trauma. This theoretical article addresses the converse, namely how trauma can impact on music creation, interpretation and performance. Psychological effects of trauma include Acute Stress Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. When composers and performers suffer from these disorders, the effects may become audible in the musical result. Obstacles encountered during the translation of emotion into physical motions can be linked to the adverse influence of tension, involving overlap between the physiological similarities of the state in which trauma is encoded and the experience of Music Performance Anxiety.

Examples from the lives of great musicians illustrate ways in which trauma impacts on creative expression. Interference and anxiety influence the resulting level of performance. Strategies to overcome consequences of unresolved trauma include therapeutic intervention, learning to trust the arousal cycle again, the release of frozen energy, and the creation of adequate dress rehearsal opportunities, enabling individuals to again enter the state of “flow.” It is emphasized how adverse experience can catalyze Post-Traumatic Growth and how integration can facilitate healing and optimal performance.
Anterior Opercular Syndrome as a First Presentation of Herpes Simplex Encephalitis
Authors: De Kleermaeker Floriaan G. C. M. , Bouwmans Angela E. P. , Nicolai Joost , Klinkenberg Sylvia
Published: April 2013

We report a 5-year-old girl who presented with fever, drooling, dysphagia, and anarthria. Moreover, voluntary facial movements were disturbed, but the emotional facial movements were completely normal. This clinical phenomenon is known as the anterior opercular syndrome. There was a positive polymerase chain reaction for herpes simplex in the cerebrospinal fluid. The diagnosis herpes simplex encephalitis was supported by both magnetic resonance images (MRI) as by electroencephalogram (EEG). Herpes simplex encephalitis is a rare, but severe, cause of the anterior opercular syndrome that demands treatment as soon as possible in order to prevent high morbidity or mortality. The phenomenon of autonomic-voluntary dissociation, associated with other clinical and radiologic findings related to an underlying neurologic disorder, alerts clinicians to the anterior opercular syndrome as a critical diagnostic observation with time-dependent therapeutic consequences.
Effects of cutting parameters on surface residual stress and its mechanism in high-speed milling of TB6
Authors: Changfeng Yao , Daoxia Wu , Liang Tan , Junxue Ren , Kaining Shi , Zhenchao Yang
Published: April 2013

Formation mechanism and influence of cutting parameters on residual stress in flank milling of TB6 are investigated through orthogonal experiments. The thermal–mechanical coupling effect on forming residual stress is studied by analyzing the microstructure of metamorphic layer. Experiment results show that cutting temperature varies between 300 °C and 518 °C under experiment conditions, while residual compressive stress on machined surface is −199.8 to −41.7 MPa. Tensile residual stress occurs on subsurface when increasing milling parameters excessively. When cutting TB6 with parameters of fz = 0.02 mm/z, vc = 60 m/min, ae = 0.2 mm and ap = 10 mm, only the compressive residual stress can be detected, which is good for its fatigue life. The depth of compressive residual stress layer is 10–20 µm.
On the road to transnational cooperation? Results from a survey of European trade unions
Authors: Furåker Bengt , Bengtsson Mattias
Published: April 2013

Economic globalization and political developments within the EU have put pressure upon trade unions to engage in cross-border cooperation. The most realistic step in the foreseeable future is transnational coordination of collective bargaining, but the process is still very much in its infancy. We use a web and postal survey of a large number of European trade unions to illuminate their current practices and their preferences for the future. The most common activity is exchange of information on collective agreements, followed by collaboration in training programmes for union representatives, and such cross-border cooperation primarily involves unions in manufacturing. Support for European collective bargaining is far from overwhelming, and unions are clearly divided on the idea of statutory minimum wages: this has rather strong support in Spain and Germany, but very little in Scandinavia.
When Australian defence procurement goes wrong: Improving outcomes in a troubled contractual environment
Authors: Stewart Jenny , Ablong Tony
Published: April 2013

Defence procurement is a notoriously difficult and often controversial field of public management. In Australia, problems with schedule and budget overruns have been addressed through business process reforms aimed at tightening control and improving professionalism. However, studies of complex contracting in other contexts show the importance of relational factors of trust, collaboration and risk-sharing. These factors are not encouraged by the predominantly transactionally based contractual environment of Defence. Based on a detailed examination of three case studies, we suggest that there is a disjunct between the types of controls that are applied by Defence and the requirements of delivering complex, long-term projects involving multiple stakeholders. The need for both improved flexibility as well as heightened accountability is evident. We argue that balancing these values involves processes that encourage, rather than discourage, communication, risk-sharing and trust.
Women’s Experiences in a Community-Based Participatory Research Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kneipp Shawn M. , Lutz Barbara J. , Levonian Catherine , Cook Christa , Hamilton Jill B. , Roberson Dawne
Published: April 2013

Integrating community-based participatory research (CBPR) into traditional study designs can enhance outcomes in studies with disadvantaged groups. Little is known, however, about study participants’ experiences with these approaches, the underlying processes involved in creating more positive outcomes, and whether undesirable effects on study outcomes occur simultaneously. We conducted focus group interviews with 31 disadvantaged women who participated in a CBPR-driven randomized controlled trial (RCT) both to explore their study experiences and to obtain their interpretations of select study findings. Using dimensional analysis, we found the tailored health questionnaire, treatment by study staff members, and RCT participants’ understandings of and responses to randomization were salient to what women described as transformative experiences that occurred over the course of the RCT. These findings have implications for understanding how CBPR and non-CBPR aspects of interventions and study designs have the potential to affect both process and endpoint study outcomes.
Construction Noise Induces Hypercoagulability and Elevated Plasma Corticosteroids in Rats
Authors: Toukh Mazen , Gordon Sheila P , Othman Maha
Published: April 2013

Although animals housed for research purposes are strictly monitored for lighting, temperature, and humidity, the acoustic environment receives less attention. In a retrospective study, we investigated the effect of construction-induced noise on coagulation using thromboelastography in a group of healthy control rats. Animals were unintentionally exposed to noise due to construction in the vicinity of the animal care facility where these rats were housed. We compared the results to those of age-, gender-matched nonexposed rats. There was a significant shortening of the reaction (R) time ( P = .009) and a trend toward an increase in coagulation index (CI; P = .09), indicating hypercoagulability. The short R time and increase in CI were correlated with an elevated plasma cortisol and corticosterone, indicating that the hypercoagulability seen in these rats is stress induced. Noise is a stress factor for which animals need to be monitored, particularly if those animals are selected as controls for hemostasis studies.
Predictors of never testing for HIV among a national online sample of men who have sex with men in Norway
Authors: Berg Rigmor C.
Published: April 2013

Background: HIV testing among persons at risk of infection has become a cornerstone in prevention and control of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Understanding factors related to HIV testing is thus fundamental for informing prevention and testing initiatives. Aims: This study aims to identify prevalence of, and factors that are associated with, HIV testing. Methods: This study analysed data from 2011 HIV-negative and untested MSM collected in a national, online survey. Results: More than a third (35.3%) of MSM had never received an HIV test result. Multivariate logistic regression results showed that compared with men ever tested, untested men were younger (odds ratio, OR 0.95), closeted about same sex attractions (OR 3.84), had low educational level (OR 0.47), low HIV transmission and testing knowledge (OR 0.98), did not believe that HIV testing is free (OR 0.27), had never taken a test for sexually transmitted infection (OR 0.08), and had not engaged in sex abroad in the past year (OR 0.69). Conclusions: These results underscore the urgency in efforts to reduce testing delay among especially young MSM and point to the need for additional public health resources and prevention marketing efforts to be directed towards increasing awareness of HIV testing.
Transformations of the backpacking food tourist: Emotions and conflicts
Authors: Falconer Emily
Published: April 2013

This article focuses on sensations relating to food, consumption and digestion, and will specifically seek to address the conflicting emotions surrounding food, tastes and eating practices while embarking on a backpacking journey. There has been a growing interest in food tourism within the social sciences, exploring the significance of food and drink to the tourist experience. However, there is little focus on the heightened and often problematic emotions associated with food and eating for backpackers who are travelling independently for an extended period of time. Drawing on fieldwork data that explored the emotional and embodied experiences of women travellers, I will describe some of the strong emotions determined by the everyday practice of consumption while moving through different travelling spaces. Moreover, this article will discuss the temporal context of the production of emotions around food. Mealtimes often provide structure and rhythm to backpacker’s everyday lives ‘on the road’, but their emotional responses to food also follow a process of change over an extended period of time. I will argue that the realm of the backpacking journey intensifies both positive and negative emotions relating to food and consumption, and discuss how this fits into wider theories of embodiment and temporality in backpacking tourism.
Interventions to reduce neonatal mortality from neonatal tetanus in low and middle income countries - a systematic review
Authors: Khan Adeel Ahmed , Zahidie Aysha , Rabbani Fauziah
Published: April 2013

Background

In 1988, WHO estimated around 787,000 newborns deaths due to neonatal tetanus. Despite few success stories majority of the Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs) are still struggling to reduce neonatal mortality due to neonatal tetanus. We conducted a systematic review to understand the interventions that have had a substantial effect on reducing neonatal mortality rate due to neonatal tetanus in LMICs and come up with feasible recommendations for decreasing neonatal tetanus in the Pakistani setting.

Methods

We systemically reviewed the published literature (Pubmed and Pubget databases) to identify appropriate interventions for reducing tetanus related neonatal mortality. A total of 26 out of 30 studies were shortlisted for preliminary screening after removing overlapping information. Key words used were “neonatal tetanus, neonatal mortality, tetanus toxoid women”. Of these twenty-six studies, 20 were excluded. The pre-defined exclusion criteria was (i) strategies and interventions to reduce mortality among neonates not described (ii) no abstract/author (4 studies) (iii) not freely accessible online (1 study) (iv) conducted in high income countries (2 studies) and (v) not directly related to neonatal tetanus mortality and tetanus toxoid immunization (5). Finally six studies which met the eligibility criteria were entered in the pre-designed data extraction form and five were selected for commentary as they were directly linked with neonatal tetanus reduction.

Results

Interventions that were identified to reduce neonatal mortality in LMICs were: a) vaccination of women of child bearing age (married and unmarried both) with tetanus toxoid b) community based interventions i.e. tetanus toxoid immunization for all mothers; clean and skilled care at delivery; newborn resuscitation; exclusive breastfeeding; umbilical cord care and management of infections in newborns c) supplementary immunization (in addition to regular EPI program) d) safer delivery practices.

Conclusion

The key intervention to reduce neonatal mortality from neonatal tetanus was found to be vaccination of pregnant women with tetanus toxoid. In the resource poor countries like Pakistan, this single intervention coupled with regular effective antenatal checkups, clean delivery practices and compliance with the “high- risk” approach can be effective in reducing neonatal tetanus.
An in-vitro biomechanical study of different fixation techniques for the extended trochanteric osteotomy in revision THA
Authors: Zhu Zhonglin , Ding Hui , Shao Hongyi , Zhou Yixin , Wang Guangzhi
Published: April 2013

Background

The wire fixation and the cable grip fixation have been developed for the extended trochanteric osteotomy (ETO) in the revision of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Many studies reported the postoperative performance of the patients, but with little quantitative biomechanical comparison of the two fixation systems.

Methods

An in-vitro testing approach was designed to record the loosening between the femoral bed and the greater trochanter after fixations. Ten cadaveric femurs were chosen in this study. Each femur underwent the THA, revision by ETO and fixations. The tension to the greater trochanter was from 0 to 500N in vertical and lateral direction, respectively. The translation and rotation of the greater trochanter with respect to the bony bed were captured by an optical tracking system.

Results

In the vertical tension tests, the overall translation of the greater trochanter was observed 0.4 mm in the cable fixations and 7.0 mm in the wire fixations. In the lateral tension tests, the overall motion of the greater trochanter was 2.0 mm and 1.2° in the cable fixations, while it was 6.2 mm and 5.3° in the wire fixations. The result was significantly different between the two fixation systems.

Conclusions

The stability of the proximal femur after ETO using different fixations in the revision THA was investigated. The cable grip fixation was significantly more stable than the wire fixation.
Adiponectin complexes composition in Japanese-Brazilians regarding their glucose tolerance status
Authors: Crispim Felipe , Vendramini Marcio F ,   the Japanese-Brazilian Diabetes Study Group, Moisés Regina S
Published: April 2013

Background

Adiponectin circulates in different multimer complexes comprised of low molecular weight trimeric form (LMW), hexamer of middle molecular weight (MMW) and high molecular weight multimers (HMW). In Japanese-Brazilians, a population with high prevalence of glucose metabolism disturbances, we examined the associations of total adiponectin and its multimers with diabetes mellitus.

Methods

Two study groups were examined: 26 patients with diabetes mellitus (DM,14 women and 12 men, aged 55.3 ± 8.6 years) and 27 age-matched control subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT,12 women and 15 men, aged 54.0 ± 9.2 years).

Results

We found no significant differences in total [NGT: 6.90 ug/ml (4.38-13.43); DM: 5.38 ug/ml (3.76-8.56), p = 0.35], MMW [NGT:2.34 ug/ml (1.38-3.25); DM: 1.80 ug/ml (1.18-2.84), p = 0.48] or LMW adiponectin [NGT: 2.07 ug/ml (1.45-3.48), DM: 2.93 ug/ml (1.78-3.99), p = 0.32] between groups. In contrast, HMW adiponectin levels were significantly lower in patients with DM [TGN: 2.39 ug/ml (1.20-4.75); DM: 1.04 ug/ml (0.42-1.60), p = 0.001]. A logistic regression analysis was done to identify independent associations with diabetes mellitus. The results showed that HOMA-IR and HMW adiponectin in women were independently associated with diabetes mellitus.

Conclusion

The current investigation demonstrates that in Japanese-Brazilians HMW adiponectin is selectively reduced in individuals with type 2 diabetes, while no differences were found in MMW and LMW adiponectin isoforms.
Calcium hydroxide nanosols for the consolidation of porous building materials - results from EU-STONECORE
Authors: Daehne Arnulf , Herm Christoph
Published: April 2013

Introduction

The main idea of the European STONECORE R&D project (2008 to 2011) was to develop and evaluate nano materials for the use in refurbishment and conservation of historic monuments. A set of different calcium hydroxide (“lime”) nanoparticles dispersed in alcohols (CaLoSiL®) available on the market were tested. The general advantages attributed to alcoholic lime dispersions were: compatibility of the consolidant with the original building material, no limitation of penetration due to the particle size, and no mobilisation of soluble salts.

Results

The paper mainly reports the evaluation of lime nanosols for consolidation of lime mortar, gypsum stucco, and mural painting layers. In order to achieve a penetration behaviour which is adequate to the pore structure of the substrate, the composition of the nanosol as well as its application procedure had to be adjusted. This could be achieved by dilution, additives, or after-treatment of the surface. Apart from structural strengthening of porous structures the lime nanosols were tested for treatment of larger defects such as fissures, cracks, detachment, and delamination. For this purpose the nanosols were modified with additives, fillers, and aggregate. The developed lime nanosol formulations were applied to test sites at three historic monuments with promising results.

Conclusion

A ‘modular system’ was developed to meet all these conservation needs. These materials showed sufficient adhesive strength. They proved applicable for the consolidation of severely cracked limestone as well.
The Backus-Gilbert method and their minimum-norm solution
Authors: Pujol Jose M.
Published: April 2013

This paper has two objectives. One is to review the Backus-Gilbert (BG) method. Backus and Gilbert investigate continuous inverse problems in a radially symmetric earth using an approach completely different from that of standard inversion methods. If [Formula: see text] is an earth property of interest, the BG method provides average values of [Formula: see text] over some radial intervals. If an interval [Formula: see text] is relatively short and centered near a particular radius [Formula: see text], the BG average will be a local average of [Formula: see text] near [Formula: see text] with a resolving length of [Formula: see text]. Backus and Gilbert also introduce the concept of trade-off between resolution and error, which is essential in inverse theory regardless of the inversion method. In spite of its importance, inverse theory texts neither describe the BG method in full nor show how to apply it in all its generality. Because the three papers that introduce the BG method are mathematically difficult, this paper provides background material and a detailed derivation of the method, as well as two completely worked-out synthetic 1D examples. In addition, the application of the method to disciplines other than solid-earth geophysics is discussed. The second objective is to derive the minimum-norm solution for the continuous case, also introduced by Backus and Gilbert. Their derivation is little known, and it is completely different from a better known, simpler derivation that has some logical difficulties. The minimum-norm solution lacks a constraint that the BG averages have, which may lead to results affected by significant error. To address this problem, a constrained minimum-norm solution is derived here. The two examples for the BG method were used to compute minimum-norm solutions. Interestingly, these examples show that the BG averages can be closer to the true values than the corresponding minimum-norm solutions, although these results should not be considered general.
Tutorial: The gravity-stripping process as applied to gravity interpretation in the eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Miroslav Bielik , Michael Rybakov , Michael Lazar
Published: April 2013

Observed gravity data after latitude, elevation (free air), Bouguer and terrain corrections determine “the sum of all effects from the grass roots down” (Nettleton, 1971). In order to eliminate gravity effects corresponding to unwanted disturbances in the subsurface, various approaches can be used. One such approach that has proven the test of time is gravity interpretation by stripping (e.g., Woollard, 1938; Bible, 1961; Hammer, 1963). The removal of an effect of a known density contrast (i.e., constrained by independent geophysical and geological data) allows determination of gravity corresponding to other targets of interest. It is well known that the advantage of the gravity-stripping procedure is that it is more accurate than any mathematical (convolution) method for separation of the gravity field (including filtering procedures), as the latter contain not only information on the amplification of available gravity components, but also false anomalies. Moreover, all transformed (filtered) gravity signals have smaller amplitudes compared to unfiltered ones.
Germline BRCA Mutations Are Associated With Higher Risk of Nodal Involvement, Distant Metastasis, and Poor Survival Outcomes in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Castro Elena , Goh Chee , Olmos David , Saunders Ed , Leongamornlert Daniel , Tymrakiewicz Malgorzata , Mahmud Nadiya , Dadaev Tokhir , Govindasami Koveela , Guy Michelle , Sawyer Emma , Wilkinson Rosemary , Ardern-Jones Audrey , Ellis Steve , Frost Debra , Peock Susan , Evans D. Gareth , Tischkowitz Marc , Cole Trevor , Davidson Rosemarie , Eccles Diana , Brewer Carole , Douglas Fiona , Porteous Mary E. , Donaldson Alan , Dorkins Huw , Izatt Louise , Cook Jackie , Hodgson Shirley , Kennedy M. John , Side Lucy E. , Eason Jacqueline , Murray Alex , Antoniou Antonis C. , Easton Douglas F. , Kote-Jarai Zsofia , Eeles Rosalind
Published: April 2013

Purpose

To analyze the baseline clinicopathologic characteristics of prostate tumors with germline BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) mutations and the prognostic value of those mutations on prostate cancer (PCa) outcomes.

Patients and Methods

This study analyzed the tumor features and outcomes of 2,019 patients with PCa (18 BRCA1 carriers, 61 BRCA2 carriers, and 1,940 noncarriers). The Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate the associations between BRCA1/2 status and other PCa prognostic factors with overall survival (OS), cause-specific OS (CSS), CSS in localized PCa (CSS_M0), metastasis-free survival (MFS), and CSS from metastasis (CSS_M1).

Results

PCa with germline BRCA1/2 mutations were more frequently associated with Gleason ≥ 8 (P = .00003), T3/T4 stage (P = .003), nodal involvement (P = .00005), and metastases at diagnosis (P = .005) than PCa in noncarriers. CSS was significantly longer in noncarriers than in carriers (15.7 v 8.6 years, multivariable analyses [MVA] P = .015; hazard ratio [HR] = 1.8). For localized PCa, 5-year CSS and MFS were significantly higher in noncarriers (96% v 82%; MVA P = .01; HR = 2.6%; and 93% v 77%; MVA P = .009; HR = 2.7, respectively). Subgroup analyses confirmed the poor outcomes in BRCA2 patients, whereas the role of BRCA1 was not well defined due to the limited size and follow-up in this subgroup.

Conclusion

Our results confirm that BRCA1/2 mutations confer a more aggressive PCa phenotype with a higher probability of nodal involvement and distant metastasis. BRCA mutations are associated with poor survival outcomes and this should be considered for tailoring clinical management of these patients.
Multicenter Phase II Study of Neoadjuvant Lapatinib and Trastuzumab With Hormonal Therapy and Without Chemotherapy in Patients With Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2–Overexpressing Breast Cancer: TBCRC 006
Authors: Rimawi Mothaffar F. , Mayer Ingrid A. , Forero Andres , Nanda Rita , Goetz Matthew P. , Rodriguez Angel A. , Pavlick Anne C. , Wang Tao , Hilsenbeck Susan G. , Gutierrez Carolina , Schiff Rachel , Osborne C. Kent , Chang Jenny C.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

We previously reported the eradication of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)– amplified human xenografts in mice by inhibition of the HER2 pathway with lapatinib and trastuzumab to block all homo- and heterodimer signaling as well as by blockade of estrogen receptor (ER) when expressed. In this clinical trial, we sought to translate these findings to patients using targeted therapy without chemotherapy.

Patients and Methods

Women with stages II to III HER2-positive breast cancers were eligible. They received trastuzumab once per week (4 mg/kg loading, then 2 mg/kg) and lapatinib 1000 mg once per day for 12 weeks. Women with ER-positive tumors also received letrozole (plus a luteinizing hormone–releasing hormone [LHRH] agonist if premenopausal). Pathologic response was assessed by ER status. Biopsies were obtained at baseline, weeks 2 and 8, and time of surgery.

Results

Sixty-six patients were enrolled, and 64 were eligible and evaluable for response. Median tumor size was 6 cm (range, 1.5 to 30 cm). Adverse events were mainly grades 1 to 2 (GI, 63%; skin, 46%). Grade 3 metabolic, GI, and liver (18%; 12 patients) and grade 4 liver toxicities (one patient) were also observed. Overall, in-breast pathologic complete response (pCR; ypT0-is) was 27% (ER positive, 21%; ER negative, 36%). The rate of low-volume residual disease (ypT1a-b) was 22% (ER positive, 33%; ER negative, 4%).

Conclusion

In patients with locally advanced HER2-positive breast cancer, our approach of targeted therapy only resulted in a high pCR rate without chemotherapy. Our data support the hypothesis that selected patients with HER2-positive tumors may not need chemotherapy, and more-complete blockade of HER receptors and ER is an effective strategy worthy of further study.