bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on Upper Esophageal Sphincter Dynamics
Authors: Jungheim Michael , Janhsen Alexander Matthias , Miller Simone , Ptok Martin 
Published: June 2014

Objectives: Beside traditional dysphagia therapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has been proposed to treat patients with dysphagia. Considering the complexity of the nerve-muscle interaction during swallowing, the underlying physiology of NMES remains unclear. Here, we addressed the question of whether NMES can modify upper esophageal sphincter (UES) dynamics. Methods: In a prospective study, 26 healthy volunteers performed water swallows with and without NMES. The stimulus was applied in a participant- and operator-initiated stimulation above, near, and below the motor threshold. Swallowing parameters were measured using high-resolution manometry. Results: The UES relaxation time was found to be extended by 10%, indicating a modification in UES dynamics. Conclusions: The chosen NMES paradigm influenced the involuntary swallowing phase by extending relaxation time, providing more time for bolus passage into the esophagus. Future studies will have to evaluate if this effect can be found in patients with dysphagia and whether it is beneficial for treatment.
Outcomes following Semicircular Canal Plugging
Authors: Goddard John C. , Wilkinson Eric P. 
Published: June 2014

ObjectivesTo examine audiometric outcomes, symptom control rates, and complication rates following semicircular canal plugging for superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome.Study DesignRetrospective chart review.SettingPrivate, neurotologic tertiary referral center.Subjects and MethodsPatients undergoing semicircular canal plugging for superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2012. Pre‐ and postoperative audiometry, vestibular testing, operative findings, and clinical symptoms were assessed through chart review.ResultsA total of 24 ears underwent a canal plugging procedure during the study period for superior canal dehiscence syndrome. Pre‐ and postoperative air conduction pure‐tone averages were 21.1 and 22.5 dB (P =. 42, not significant [NS]). The average pre‐ and postoperative word recognition scores were 95.8% and 95.1% (P =. 48, NS). Vestibular evoked myogenic potential data showed reduced thresholds in 7 patients with canal dehiscence. Complications were limited to a single, temporary facial weakness. Complete symptom improvement was noted in 35.7% of all patients, while at least partial symptom improvement was found in over 80% of patients.ConclusionSemicircular canal plugging procedures are associated with excellent hearing outcomes and may reduce preoperative symptoms in patients with superior semicircular canal dehiscence.
Serum miR-9 as a prognostic biomarker in patients with osteosarcoma
Authors: Fei Dan , Li Yang , Zhao Dongxu , Zhao Kaijun , Dai Lu , Gao Zhongli 
Published: June 2014

Objectives To quantify microRNA-9 (miR-9) concentrations in the serum of patients with osteosarcoma; to explore its relationship with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of osteosarcoma. Method Serum miR-9 was quantified via real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction in patients with osteosarcoma and healthy control subjects. Overall survival was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Results Serum miR-9 was significantly upregulated in patients with osteosarcoma ( n = 118) compared with healthy control subjects ( n = 60); its upregulation was significantly associated with advanced tumour–node–metastasis stage, larger tumour size and presence of distant metastasis. Overall survival duration was significantly shorter in patients with relatively high miR-9 concentrations compared with those with relatively low miR-9 concentrations. Conclusions Serum miR-9 concentrations are significantly increased in patients with osteosarcoma compared with healthy controls. Upregulation of miR-9 is associated with tumour stage, size and metastasis. Serum miR-9 quantification may represent a useful diagnostic and prognostic marker of osteosarcoma.
The lived experience of involuntary community treatment: a qualitative study of mental health consumers and carers
Authors: Light Edwina M , Robertson Michael D , Boyce Philip , Carney Terry , Rosen Alan , Cleary Michelle , Hunt Glenn E , O’Connor Nick , Ryan Christopher , Kerridge Ian H 
Published: June 2014

Objective: To describe the lived experiences of people subject to community treatment orders (CTOs) and their carers. Method: We recruited 11 participants (five mental health consumers and six carers) through consumer and carer networks in NSW, Australia, to take part in interviews about their experiences. We analysed the interview data set using established qualitative methodologies. Results: The lived experiences were characterised by ‘access’ concerns, ‘isolation’, ‘loss and trauma’, ‘resistance and resignation’ and ‘vulnerability and distress’. The extent and impact of these experiences related to the severity of mental illness, the support available for people with mental illnesses and their carers, the social compromises associated with living with mental illness, and the challenges of managing the relationships necessitated by these processes. Conclusions: The lived experience of CTOs is complex: it is one of distress and profound ambivalence. The distress is an intrinsic aspect of the experience of severe mental illness, but it also emerges from communication gaps, difficulty obtaining optimal care and accessing mental health services. The ambivalence arises from an acknowledgement that while CTOs are coercive and constrain autonomy, they may also be beneficial. These findings can inform improvements to the implementation of CTOs and the consequent experiences.
Tramadol toxicity in a cat: case report and literature review of serotonin syndrome
Authors: Indrawirawan Yenny , McAlees Trudi 
Published: June 2014

Overview: Tramadol toxicity has not previously been reported in a cat. Case summary: This report describes the clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of tramadol toxicity, manifesting as serotonin syndrome, in a cat in Australia. Practical relevance: For any cat with suspicion of serotonin syndrome, in particular secondary to tramadol overdose, it is recommended that decontamination, monitoring and supportive care are instituted as soon as clinical signs develop. Prolonged hospitalisation may be required in the event of a severe overdose. Literature review: The literature relating to the pharmacology of tramadol and tramadol overdose, clinical manifestations of tramadol overdose, and serotonin syndrome in cats, humans and dogs is reviewed. Recommended treatment for tramadol overdose and serotonin syndrome is also discussed.
Lack of association of angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion/deletion polymorphism with breast cancer: An update meta-analysis based on 10405 subjects
Authors: Li Xiao-Lei , Zheng Zhi-Jian , Qu Hai-Ou 
Published: June 2014

Objective: Previous case-control studies on the relation between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and breast cancer did not reach the same conclusion. In the present study, we aimed to further evaluate the relationship between the ACE gene I/D polymorphism and breast cancer. Methods: We selected 13 case-control studies related to ACE gene I/D polymorphism and breast cancer by searching PubMed, EMBase, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, Chinese CNKI, and Wanfang database. To test the heterogeneity between each study, we utilized the Q-test and I2 test. To merge the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI), we utilized the random effects model during the analyses. Results: The present study included 1997 patients with breast cancer and 8404 cancer-free control subjects. By meta-analysis, we did not find any association of ACE gene I/D polymorphism with breast cancer in different model (DD vs (ID+II): OR=1.28, 95% CI (0.90–1.81), p=0.16; II vs (ID+DD): OR=0.99, 95% CI (0.81–1.21), p=0.93; D allele vs I allele: OR=1.15, 95% CI (0.94–1.41), p=0.18). Conclusion: We concluded that ACE gene I/D polymorphism was not associated with breast cancer.
Angiotensin III induces signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and interleukin-6 mRNA levels in cultured rat astrocytes
Authors: Kandalam Umadevi , Sarmiento Nancy , Haspula Dhanush , Clark Michelle A 
Published: June 2014

Introduction: Recently we established that pro-inflammatory actions of angiotensin (Ang) II in astrocytes involved Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Materials and methods: In our current study, we determined in brainstem and cerebellum whether Ang III also activates STAT3 leading to IL-6 mRNA expression and astrocyte proliferation. Results: Ang III induced STAT3 phosphorylation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Significant STAT3 phosphorylation was rapid and was maximal within 10 min, and with 100 nM Ang III. The Ang AT1 receptor was shown to mediate this action of Ang III. Ang III also significantly induced IL-6 mRNA expression within an hour, and maximal Ang III-mediated IL-6 mRNA expression occurred in the presence of 100 nM Ang III. Ang III-mediated IL-6 mRNA expression occurred by the interaction of the peptide with the Ang AT1 receptor and was mediated by STAT3. In addition, STAT3 was shown to mediate Ang III astrocyte proliferation. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Ang III, similar to Ang II, has pro-inflammatory effects since it induces STAT3 leading to an induction of IL-6 mRNA expression, outcomes that lend relevance to the physiological importance of central Ang III.
Prognostic impact of renin-angiotensin system blockade in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Yen-Hao , Huang Cheng-Hua , Lu Hung-I , Chen Chang-Han , Huang Wan-Ting , Hsieh Ming-Jang , Rau Kun-Ming , Chang Alice YW , Lin Wei-Che , Li Shau-Hsuan 
Published: June 2014

Introduction: The aim of this study is to evaluate whether the administration of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors, angiotensin-I converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), is associated with treatment outcome in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Materials and methods: A total of 141 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients receiving esophagectomy were identified, and were divided into two groups: an ACEI/ARB group ( n=20), and a non-ACEI/ARB group ( n=121). The effect of ACEIs or ARBs on cell proliferation and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell lines, CE81T/VGH and TE2, were investigated by 3-(4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Results: Use of ACEI/ARB ( p=0.032), pathologic T stage ( p<0.001), pathologic N stage ( p=0.012), tumor stage ( p=0.006), and tumor location ( p=0.032) were significantly associated with superior overall survival. In multivariate comparison, use of ACEI/ARB ( p=0.006), tumor stage ( p=0.002), and tumor location ( p=0.014) represented the independent prognosticators of superior overall survival. In cell lines, ACEIs/ARBs inhibit cell proliferation and VEGF secretion in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions: ACEIs/ARBs administration is independently associated with superior overall survival in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma receiving esophagectomy. Our data support further investigation of the role of RAS inhibitors as a potential therapy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Modeling the lung: Design and development of tissue engineered macro- and micro-physiologic lung models for research use
Authors: Nichols Joan E , Niles Jean A , Vega Stephanie P , Argueta Lissenya B , Eastaway Adriene , Cortiella Joaquin 
Published: June 2014

Respiratory tract specific cell populations, or tissue engineered in vitro grown human lung, have the potential to be used as research tools to mimic physiology, toxicology, pathology, as well as infectious diseases responses of cells or tissues. Studies related to respiratory tract pathogenesis or drug toxicity testing in the past made use of basic systems where single cell populations were exposed to test agents followed by evaluations of simple cellular responses. Although these simple single-cell-type systems provided good basic information related to cellular responses, much more can be learned from cells grown in fabricated microenvironments which mimic in vivo conditions in specialized microfabricated chambers or by human tissue engineered three-dimensional (3D) models which allow for more natural interactions between cells. Recent advances in microengineering technology, microfluidics, and tissue engineering have provided a new approach to the development of 2D and 3D cell culture models which enable production of more robust human in vitro respiratory tract models. Complex models containing multiple cell phenotypes also provide a more reasonable approximation of what occurs in vivo without the confounding elements in the dynamic in vivo environment. The goal of engineering good 3D human models is the formation of physiologically functional respiratory tissue surrogates which can be used as pathogenesis models or in the case of 2D screening systems for drug therapy evaluation as well as human toxicity testing. We hope that this manuscript will serve as a guide for development of future respiratory tract model systems as well as a review of conventional models.
The outcome of conservative treatment of spiral metacarpal fractures and the role of the deep transverse metacarpal ligaments in stabilizing these injuries
Authors: Khan A. , Giddins G. 
Published: June 2014

We carried out a prospective study to assess the outcome of spiral metacarpal fractures treated with early mobilization even in the presence of malrotation. We treated 30 patients of whom we assessed 25. Of these, 23 had an excellent outcome and two had good outcomes. Objectively all the fractures united with some shortening of between 2–5 mm. Only two cases reported mild dysfunction: one patient had a residual malrotation of 5° and one had some discomfort when boxing. We also carried out simple biomechanical studies on a cadaver and two patients undergoing ray amputations. These showed that, as the distal fracture fragment migrates proximally, any malrotation in a closed injury with intact deep transverse metacarpal ligaments corrects with flexion, which also helps to limit the shortening. Spiral metacarpal fractures, whether central or border, whether single or multiple, can usually be treated reliably with early mobilization as any malrotation corrects with flexion and the degree of shortening is limited. Level of evidence – IV
Clinical Utility of Pharmacy-Based Adherence Measurement in Predicting Virologic Outcomes in an Adult HIV-Infected Cohort in Jos, North Central Nigeria
Authors: Abah Isaac Okoh , Ojeh Victor Bazim , Musa Jonah , Ugoagwu Placid , Agaba Patricia Aladi , Agbaji Oche , Okonkwo Prosper 
Published: June 2014

Objectives: We examined the association between adherence to drug-refill visits and virologic outcomes in a cohort of HIV-infected adults on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in North Central Nigeria. Methods: Retrospectively, 588 HIV-infected, cART-naive adults (aged ≥15 years), initiated on first-line ART between 2009 and 2010 at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, were evaluated. Association between adherence to drug-refill visits, virologic (viral load > 1000 copies/mL), and immunologic failure was assessed using multivariable logistic regression. Results: After a median of 12 months on cART, 16% (n = 94) and 10% (n = 59) of patients had virologic and immunologic failures, respectively. In the final multivariable model, suboptimal adherence to drug-refill visits was a significant predictor of both virologic (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.2–2.3) and immunologic (AOR 1.92; 95% CI:1.06–3.49) failures. Conclusion: Adherence to drug refill is a useful predictor of successful virologic control and could be utilized for routine monitoring of adherence to cART in our clinical setting.
A review of roll-to-roll nanoimprint lithography
Authors: Kooy Nazrin , Mohamed Khairudin , Pin Lee Tze , Guan Ooi Su 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Since its introduction in 1995, nanoimprint lithography has been demonstrated in many researches as a simple, low-cost, and high-throughput process for replicating micro- and nanoscale patterns. Due to its advantages, the nanoimprint lithography method has been rapidly developed over the years as a promising alternative to conventional nanolithography processes to fulfill the demands generated from the recent developments in the semiconductor and flexible electronics industries, which results in variations of the process. Roll-to-roll (R2R) nanoimprint lithography (NIL) is the most demanded technique due to its high-throughput fulfilling industrial-scale application. In the present work, a general literature review on the various types of nanoimprint lithography processes especially R2R NIL and the methods commonly adapted to fabricate imprint molds are presented to provide a clear view and understanding on the nanoimprint lithography technique as well as its recent developments.

PACS

81.16.Nd
Pre‐ and postnatal administration ofLactobacillus reuteridecreases TLR2 responses in infants
Authors: Forsberg Anna , Abrahamsson Thomas R , Björkstén Bengt , Jenmalm Maria C 
Published: June 2014

AbstractBackgroundMice models indicate that intact Toll like receptor (TLR) signaling may be essential for the allergy protective effects of diverse bacterial exposure observed in clinical trials and epidemiological studies. Probiotic supplementation withLactobacillus reuterifrom pregnancy week 36 and to the infant through the first year of life decreased the prevalence of IgE‐associated eczema at two years (ClinicalTrials.govNCT01285830). The effect of this supplementation on innate immune responses to bacterial products and the expression of associated TLRs were explored.MethodsBlood mononuclear cells were collected at birth, 6, 12 and 24 months from 61 infants and cultured with TLR2, 4 and 9 ligands. Cytokine and chemokine secretion was determined as well as TLR2, 4 and 9 mRNA expression.ResultsProbiotic supplementation was associated with decreased LTA (lipoteichoic acid) induced CCL4, CXCL8, IL‐1β and IL‐6 responses at 12 months and decreased CCL4 and IL‐1β secretion at 24 months. TLR2 mRNA expression was not affected by probiotic treatment.ConclusionsDecreased responses to TLR2, the main receptor for LTA from Gram positive bacteria, in probiotic treated children seem to be dependent on factors downstream of TLR mRNA expression.
Defining weaning age of camel calves in Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Chibsa Merga B , Mummed Yesihak Y , Kurtu Mohamed Y , Leta Mengistu U 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
This experiment was conducted with the aim to define the weaning age of camel calves managed with pastoral farmers in eastern Ethiopia. Twenty camel calves (11 males and 9 females) were randomly assigned into five blocks based on their birth date. Calves within a block were further assigned to one of the four Treatments (T1, T2, T3, and T4). Calves in T1, T2, and T3 were weaned at 6, 8, and 10 months of age and supplemented with concentrate from weaning up to 12 months of age, respectively. They were supplemented with a mixture of noug seed (Guizotia abyssinica) cake and wheat bran at a ratio of 40% and 60%, respectively. Calves in T4 (control) were weaned at 12 months of age, hence were not supplemented with concentrate. Calves in all treatment groups browsed natural vegetation for 8 hours a day. Post weaning performance was evaluated for all calves at 14 months of age. The mean daily concentrate intake was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in the dry season compared to the wet season. Daily weight gain was significantly (P < 0.001) affected by treatment, sex of calves, and season of birth. Calves supplemented with concentrate gained relatively more weight (P < 0.001) than calves not supplemented. Calves born during the short rainy season gained more weight than those born during the short and long dry season. Three calves died, two from T3 and one from T4. From the study it was concluded that weaning calves at 8 months of age and supplementing with concentrate to the age of 12 months of age resulted in good post weaning growth rate and survivability of calves.
Solitary hepatic lymphangioma: a one-case report
Authors: Liu Qu , Sui Cheng-Jun , Li Bao-Shan , Gao Ang , Lu Jian-yue , Yang Jia-Mei 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Hepatic lymphangiomas, malformations of the liver lymphatic system, are extremely rare conditions in adults. A 41-year-old man presented with right upper abdominal pain for 6 months was introduced in this report. Ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated a giant cystictumor with a pedunculatedextrahepatic growth pattern. Due to diagnostic uncertainty, a partial hepatectomy was performed and pathological results confirmed the diagnosis of solitary hepatic lymphangioma. In this article, we reviewed the clinical and pathology features, preoperative diagnostic challenges, and treatments of hepaticlymphangiomas.
Conflict of Interest as Source of Opportunism, Innovations and Problems of Management Theory
Authors: Козырев  , Kozyrev A. 
Published: June 2014

This paper is devoted to investigation related to role of conflict of interest (i.e. when the same person has a secondary interest together with a main responsibility or first interest) in innovation process, i.e. in the «knowledge into money transformation»process. Secondary interest in this context is not only money and
corruption interest, but also ambition for self-realization in different manifestations and forms as well as any other preferences not arising out of decision maker’s primary responsibilities. Some actual situations of conflict of interest including these one’s when budget funds are moving from a customer to an executor of a state order and when information on obtained results is moving from the contractor to the customer have been analyzed. Recommendations for minimizing of conflicts of interest’s negative consequences, and opportunistic behavior generated by these conflicts have been formulated.
Employers and High Education Institutions: Interaction and Prospects
Authors: Сабирова  , Sabirova Daniya 
Published: June 2014

This paper’s basis was formed by understanding of the fact that for full-fledged development of education an talented youth, as well as for effective use of human resources, improvement of labor relations, professional training in Russia it’s necessary an interaction between higher education institutions and employers. The
purpose is the consolidation of efforts of employers and high education institutions in addressing the issue of effective professional training and employment of graduates.