bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Everyday Empathic Accuracy in Younger and Older Couples
Authors: Rauers Antje , Blanke Elisabeth , Riediger Michaela
Published: September 2013

On average, older adults are less accurate than younger adults at recognizing emotions from faces or voices. We challenge the view that such differences in emotion-recognition tasks reflect differences in empathic accuracy (the ability to infer other people’s feelings): Empathic accuracy relies not only on sensory cues (e.g., emotional expressions) but also on knowledge about the target person. Using smartphone-based measures, we assessed empathic accuracy in younger and older couples’ daily lives and found that younger adults’ empathic accuracy was higher than older adults’ empathic accuracy when their partners were visibly present. During the partners’ absence, however, when judgments relied exclusively on knowledge of those partners, no age differences emerged, and performance in both age groups was still more accurate than chance. We conclude that across adulthood, sensory information and knowledge differentially support empathic accuracy. Laboratory emotion-recognition tasks may therefore underestimate older adults’ empathic competencies.
Commentary II: Queering language and normativity
Authors: Leap William L
Published: September 2013

Work in queer linguistics addresses diverse themes, but finds common interest in critical studies of homonormativity. As the articles in this special issue suggest, such studies connect social experience with normative practice and its regulatory constraints, recognizing that language, along with desire and other components of sexuality, are primary sites through which normativity and regulatory control unfold in everyday life.
Sex selection and sex-selective abortion
Authors: Dyal Mandeep
Published: September 2013

The recent media scandal surrounding sex-selective abortions has implied that UK ‘South Asians’ are seeking, and being provided with, sex-selective abortions. Certain clinics offering abortion are currently under investigation. It will be argued that any investigation of this issue should: (a) objectively consider the veracity of the allegations; (b) seek to cultivate an understanding of why sex-selective abortion may be occurring amongst those of Punjabi ethnicity (namely, son preference), in order to determine whether further restrictions on abortion will be effective in preventing sex-selective abortions or whether they will actually encourage a detrimental and damaging view of women, thus perpetuating the reasons for seeking sex-selective abortion; (c) consider the extent to which the Indian Government was successful in dealing with sex-selective abortions and (d) assess the extent to which son preference is manifested in the United Kingdom and amongst whom. It will be argued that prohibition is unjustifiable in the United Kingdom as: the procedure may legitimately fall within the provisions of the Abortion Act 1967; son preference is generally much weaker amongst women of Punjabi ethnicity born and raised in the United Kingdom and restrictions on abortion affirm an image of women as unable to take responsibility for their own selves, which is central to maintaining son preference, thus further underpinning the reasons why sex-selective abortion is sought in the first place.
Evaluating piezoelectric hydraulic pumps as drivers for pulsatile pediatric ventricular assist devices
Authors: Valdovinos John , Williams Ryan J , Levi Daniel S , Carman Gregory P
Published: September 2013

Piezohydraulic pumps are high power density motors, which can be theoretically miniaturized with minimal loss in power output. The feasibility of using piezohydraulic pumps in pulsatile pediatric ventricular assist devices is presented in this study. A theoretical analysis is presented to calculate the piezohydraulic pump dimensions needed to meet flow and pressure requirements. In addition, an existing piezohydraulic pump was incorporated into a ventricular assist device driver to drive a pulsatile pediatric 30-mL stroke ventricular assist device as a proof of concept. The driver was tested at heart rates ranging from 50 to 110 beats per minute in an in vitro mock circulation to characterize its performance. The maximum drive pressure was 33 kPa with a peak flow rate of 6 L/min against a 10-kPa back pressure. The maximum mean flow rate from the ventricular assist device outlet was 3 L/min at 100 beats per minute operation. These results compare well to commercially available systems that output between 25 and 40 kPa drive pressure and flows between 0 and 10 L/min against 10–16 kPa pressures.
The Experiences of Stress of Palliative Care Providers in Malaysia
Authors: Beng Tan Seng , Chin Loh Ee , Guan Ng Chong , Yee Anne , Wu Cathie , Pathmawathi Subramaniam , Yi Kweh Ting , Kuan Wong Sook , Jane Lim Ee , Meng Christopher Boey Chiong
Published: September 2013

A qualitative study was conducted with semistructured interviews to explore the experiences of stress in 20 palliative care providers of University Malaya Medical Centre in Malaysia. The results were thematically analyzed. Nine basic themes were generated: (1) organizational challenges, (2) care overload, (3) communication challenges, (4) differences in opinion, (5) misperceptions and misconceptions, (6) personal expectations, (7) emotional involvement, (8) death and dying thoughts, and (9) appraisal and coping. A total care model of occupational stress in palliative care was conceptualized from the analysis. This model may inform the development of interventions in the prevention and management of stress in palliative care.
The Relationship Between Social Support and Adherence to Healthy Lifestyle Among Patients With Coronary Artery Disease in the North of Jordan
Authors: Tawalbeh Loai I. , Tubaishat Ahmad , Batiha Abdul-Monim , Al-Azzam Manar , AlBashtawy Mohammed
Published: September 2013

Numerous studies have shown that social support improves health behaviors in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between adherence to a healthy lifestyle, and social support and selected sociodemographics among patients with CAD. Cross-sectional descriptive design was used. A convenient sample of 153 patients with CAD was recruited from the cardiac clinic in an educational hospital in the north of Jordan. One hundred and thirty-three patients completed the interview. Social support was the most significant predictor— t(124) = 9.51, p < .001—which explained 60% of variance in adherence to a healthy lifestyle. Providing patients with adequate social support improves adherence to a healthy lifestyle. More attention should be given to the elderly and patients with low income to enhance adherence to a healthy lifestyle. The applications of this study in practice provide a guide for nursing clinical assessment of social support for patients facing CAD.
Understanding Leadership from the Inside Out
Authors: Helsing Deborah , Howell Annie
Published: September 2013

This article explores the value for the organization of assessing leaders’ mental complexity using a measure of developmental stage known as the Subject–Object Interview. We first describe the existing literature that uses constructive-developmental theory to explore leadership, focusing particularly on Kegan’s theory of Adult Development. We then describe our application of this theory to participants in a leadership development fellowship at the World Economic Forum. As in many organizational leadership contexts, the program makes “mental demands” on its participants to be predominately at Kegan’s Self-Authoring stage of meaning making. Fellows’ successes and struggles related to their developmental stage, although the nature of these relationships was not always straightforward. This finding underscores the importance of utilizing a developmental assessment that can provide rich and nuanced data as a tool for a leader’s personal development, as well as for insight into leadership development programs and processes.
Physical Education Issues for Students With Autism
Authors: Rutkowski Elaine M. , Brimer Debbie
Published: September 2013

Extant studies indicate persons with autism have difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, repetitive behaviors, and poor ability to generalize learned skills. Obesity has also been identified as significantly affecting children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Negative experience in physical education (PE) may be the antecedent behavior to lack of activities that are mediators to sedentary lifestyles and contributors to the chronic illnesses associated with overweight and obesity. Students with ASD often cannot perform required activities to meet required PE standards. It is imperative school nurses be aware of the many challenges students with ASD bring into a PE class. School nurses provide education for the members of the school community, including the Individualized Education Plan team, regarding the need for attention to limitations, including physical activity, of students with ASD.
Adult Rhabdomyoma of the Extremity
Authors: Suzuki Hiroaki , Yamashiro Katsushige , Takeda Hiroko , Hiraga Hiroaki , Soma Tamotsu , Osanai Toshihisa , Isu Kazuo , Nojima Takayuki
Published: September 2013

Adult rhabdomyoma is a rare benign tumor. It mainly occurs in the head and neck region and rarely occurs outside the head and neck region. We present an extremely rare case of the adult rhabdomyoma arising in the left foot in a 46-year-old male. Microscopically, large polygonal cells and large strap-shaped cells were observed. This is the third case of adult rhabdomyoma arising in an extremity.
Design of a vibration absorber for harmonically forced damped systems
Authors: Harik Ramy F , Issa Jimmy S
Published: September 2013

Vibration suppression in harmonically forced viscously damped systems is considered using a new vibration absorber setup. The absorber is placed between the primary system and the supporting ground. The optimal absorber parameters are obtained with the aim of minimizing the maximum of the primary system frequency response. For a given damping ratio of the primary system and mass ratio of the system, the optimal stiffness and damping ratios of the absorber are calculated numerically. Two different numerical approaches are used in solving the problem; the first is based on the genetic algorithm technique and the second on the downhill simplex method. It is shown that an optimal mass ratio exists and it is calculated along with the corresponding absorber parameters for a range of the primary system damping ratio. The utmost optimal parameters associated with the optimal mass ratios are tabulated to be used for the design of such absorbers. The absorber efficiency is discussed and it is shown that this absorber becomes detrimental as the mass ratio is increased or when damping in the primary system is high. The proposed and classical absorbers efficiencies are compared.
The effect of palm oil trimethylolpropane ester on extreme pressure lubrication
Authors: Zulkifli NWM , Kalam MA , Masjuki HH , Mahmud KAH Al , Yunus R
Published: September 2013

This paper presents the experimental results for the extreme pressure characteristics of a palm oil-based trimethylolpropane (TMP) ester blended with paraffin oil obtained using a four-ball machine. The load and speed of the sample were set between 20–120 kg and 1770 rpm, respectively. TMP ester produced from palm oil is biodegradable and has high lubricity properties, such as a higher flash point temperature and viscosity index. It has an affinity to surface asperities, which reduces wear between sliding contacts. Based on the calculation, it was found that majority of the oils in boundary regime and mixed elastrohydrodynamic regime. For the same contact load, the film thickness with TMP100 is 70% thicker than that with paraffin oil. In addition to that, test results revealed that (1) for all the used lubrication oils, TMP ester blended with paraffin provide better surface protection compared to paraffin oil. (2) Even though, TMP100 has the highest film thickness, at low load the wear is higher. Surface morphology test was conducted using scanning electron microscope and surface roughness tester. It was found that severe corrosive wear occurred at TMP100 which is probably due to the high oxygen content compared to other lubricant.
Observational case-control study of the prevalence of chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency in multiple sclerosis: results from the CoSMo study
Authors: Comi G , Battaglia MA , Bertolotto A , Sette M Del , Ghezzi A , Malferrari G , Salvetti M , Sormani MP , Tesio L , Stolz E , Zaratin P , Mancardi G ,   the CoSMo Collaborative Study Group, Baracchini Claudio , Bergamaschi Roberto , Bertolotto Antonio , Bortolon Franca , Bratina Alessio , Morra Vincenzo Brescia , Buccafusca Maria , Busso Marco , Capra Ruggero , Carraro Nicola , Cavalla Paola , Cecconi Pietro , Centonze Diego , Ciampanelli Domenico , Cirrito Maurilio , Ciuffoli Alessandro , Comi Giancarlo , Coppo Lorenzo , Costantino Gianfranco , Cottone Salvatore , Deboni Antonella , Del Sette Massimo , De Rossi Nicola , Luca Di Maggio , Favaretto Elisabetta , Finocchi Cinzia , Gaeta Roberta , Gallo Paolo , Ghezzi Angelo , Giometto Bruno , Granieri Enrico , Grazioli Silvia , Grimaldi Luigi , Guccione Angelo , Iemolo Francesco , Lochner Piergiorgio , Lugaresi Alessandra , Maimone Davide , Malferrari Giovanni , Mancardi Giovanni L , Mancini Marcello , Mantegazza Renato , Marrosu Maria G , Menci Elisabetta , Monti Lucia , Motti Luisa , Nuzzaco Grazia M , Pascazio Lucia , Patti Francesco , Protti Alessandra , Provinciali Leandro , Rossato Denis , Rovaris Marco , Salvetti Marco , Sanguigni Sandro , Sanzaro Enzo , Sette Giuliano , Spinelli Marica , Stecchi Sergio , Stefanini Matteo , Tezzon Frediano , Tola Maria R , Tonello Simone , Trojano Maria , Ulivelli Monica , Uselli Sebastiano , Viaro Federica , Zaratin Paola , Zedde Maria L
Published: September 2013

Background:

Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) has been proposed as a possible cause of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objectives:

The CoSMo study evaluated the association between CCSVI and MS.

Methods:

The primary end-point of this multicentric, case-control study was to compare the prevalence of CCSVI between patients with MS, patients with other neurodegenerative diseases (ONDs) and healthy controls (HCs). Color-coded duplex sonography was performed by a sonologist and the images were sent to one of three central sonologists for a second reading. Agreement between local and central sonologists or, in case of disagreement, the predominant judgment among the three central readers, was required for a diagnosis of CCSVI. All readings, data collection and analysis were blinded.

Results:

The study involved 35 MS centers across Italy and included 1874 subjects aged 18–55. 1767 (94%) were evaluable: 1165 MS patients, 226 patients with ONDs and 376 HCs. CCSVI prevalence was 3.26%, 3.10% and 2.13% for the MS, OND and HC groups, respectively. No significant difference in CCSVI prevalence was found amongst the three cohorts (MS versus HC, OR = 1.55, 95%CI = 0.72–3.36, p = 0.30; OND versus HC, OR = 1.47, 95%CI = 0.53–4.11, p = 0.46; MS versus OND, OR = 1.05, 95%CI = 0.47–2.39, p = 0.99). High negative and low positive agreement was found between the local and centralized readers.

Conclusions:

CCSVI is not associated with MS.
The spectre of Europe: Knowledge, cultural studies and the ‘rise of Asia’
Authors: Chow Yiu Fai , de Kloet Jeroen
Published: September 2013

This introduction starts with an exploration of the ambiguity of the idea of Europe. In particular, two tropes – Europe-as-theory and Europe-as-power – continue to haunt knowledge production and cultural studies in Asia. How to proceed? What should cultural studies do if it is to embrace this historical conjuncture of shifting modes of knowledge and power production, how to deal with its Anglocentrism and Eurocentrism? While this special issue allies itself with attempts to unsettle Eurocentrism in knowledge production, it is not making any plea for regionally-rooted practices or theories. It argues for better understanding, dialogue and cross-fertilisation between cultural studies and area studies. The former needs the latter’s sensibility to spatial and cultural context as much as the latter needs the former’s theorisations. This introduction is an opening. It opens up not only to the ensuing articles but, more importantly, an occasion for the inevitable encounter argued for in this special issue.
Rethinking Asianism and method
Authors: Lo Kwai-Cheung
Published: September 2013

While contemporary Asian scholars are debating how they can avoid locking up themselves in an obsession with the West, and discovering new categories and new methodologies by inter-referencing and multiplying their frames of reference through grasping Asian shared realities that have moulded their histories and cultures, this article looks back and closely examines the postwar Japanese thinker Yoshimi Takeuchi’s tantalising idea of ‘Asia as method’. It discusses why and how Takeuchi calls for a ‘rollback’ of western values instead of forming a distinctive Asian paradigm, in order to effect universal freedom and global equality. For Takeuchi, ‘Asia as method’ may mean that Asia courageously embraces the negativity brought by Europe as the path to a higher stage of freedom and equality.
The Influence of Synoptic Pattern and Atmospheric Boundary Layer on PM10 and Urban Heat Island
Authors: He Guang-Xing , Yu Chuck Wah Francis , Lu Chan , Deng Qi-Hong
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the influence of synoptic pattern, as well as other corresponding boundary layer dynamic characteristics, on PM10 concentrations and urban heat island. Statistical analyses of PM10 concentrations (aerosol particle diameter less than 10 µm) were conducted and daily maximum urban heat island intensity was investigated during December 2008. Synoptic patterns were analysed through an interactive desktop synoptic classification application tool. Atmospheric boundary layer dynamical characteristics were modelled using mesoscale model 5. Results showed significant correlation of synoptic patterns and the corresponding urban boundary layer dynamic characteristics with PM10 concentrations and urban heat island intensities. The PM10 concentrations and urban heat island intensities were associated with anticyclone and low-pressure trough pattern under stable atmospheric boundary layer. High wind speed, high mixing layer height and weak inversion depth would cause a reduction of PM10 concentration and urban heat island intensity. However, the effect of meteorological factors on PM10 and urban heat island was not completely synchronous, the peak and trough of PM10 concentration appeared a little later than the occurrence of urban heat island. There is a need for city planners to develop strategies to relieve the unhealthy effects of urban heat island and PM pollution. This paper has outlined strategies to alleviate urban heat island and pollution for a more pleasant urban environment.
Ethics on procreation: Does everyone have the right to found a family?
Authors: Panagiotopoulou Nikoletta
Published: September 2013

An effectiveness assessment on access criteria for advance fertility treatment funded by the National Health Service, UK, in people who need help to procreate identified serious ethical issues associated with these criteria. The new draft National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines on fertility treatment that aims to expand the eligible group of patients is deemed inadequate on the basis that the right to found a family should be accorded to all. Assisted reproductive techniques aim to satisfy a basic human need and therefore should be routine part of the National Health Service.
Desulfurization properties of modified activated carbon fibers and activated carbon fiber paper
Authors: Liu Wei , Adanur Sabit
Published: September 2013

As one of the promising adsorbents, activated carbon fibers were modified in order to enhance their sulfur dioxide removal efficiency by depositing strong oxidants. Potassium permanganate (KMnO4) was found to be an effective promoter for activated carbon fibers. The optimum content of KMnO4 on activated carbon fibers was 43.34 wt% prepared from 6 wt% KMnO4 solution. The composition of the challenge gas was found to affect the SO2 adsorption capacity of KMnO4 modified activated carbon fibers. The presence of water in the mainstream improved the desulfurization properties. Prehumidification of the challenge gas increased the breakthrough capacity. KMnO4 modified activated carbon fibers were durable in desulfurization properties during the wet-laying process and was made into activated carbon fiber papers with copolyester as the binder. KMnO4-ACFP was found to be able to maintain the SO2 capacity of KMnO4 modified activated carbon fibers with a breakthrough capacity of 76 mg SO2/g modified activated carbon fiber and 90% saturation capacity of 186.75 mg SO2/g modified activated carbon fiber. Sulfur content on KMnO4 modified activated carbon fibers was increased to 9.47 wt% from 0.045 wt% during the adsorption process which proves the adsorption of sulfur on fiber adsorbents.
Characterization and evaluation of antimicrobial properties of electrospun chitosan/polyethylene oxide based nanofibrous scaffolds (with/without nanosilver)
Authors: Erdem Ramazan , Akalın Mehmet
Published: September 2013

Various ratios (30/70%, 70/30%, 50/50% with and without nanosilver) of chitosan (CS; 60–120.000 g/mol) and polyethylene oxide (PEO; 600.000 g/mol) blended nanofibers in the nanofibrous scaffolds were obtained by using electrospinning at ambient atmosphere. Homogenous CS solutions were prepared in 90% aqeous acetic acid. PEO was dissolved in deionized water. Nanosilver dispersion was prepared and added to the 50/50% blend of CS/PEO solution. Properties of all blended solutions were determined by measuring viscosity and conductivity. Differential scanning calorimeter, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy analysis and tensile tests were conducted to investigate the characteristics of the final nanofibrous composite structures. Beadless and uniform nanofibers were obtained and the average diameter of the fibers ranged from 63 ± 23 nm to 108 ± 51 nm. The antimicrobial effectiveness of the nanofibrous scaffolds was investigated against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans, and satisfactory results were obtained.
Assessment of biomarkers for risk prediction with nested case–control studies
Authors: Zhou Qian M , Zheng Yingye , Cai Tianxi
Published: September 2013

Background

Accurate risk prediction plays a key role in disease prevention and disease management; emergence of new biomarkers may lead to an important question about how much improvement in prediction accuracy it would achieve by adding the new markers into the existing risk prediction tools.

Purpose

In large prospective cohort studies, the standard full-cohort design, requiring marker measurement on the entire cohort, may be infeasible due to cost and low rate of the clinical condition of interest. To overcome such difficulties, nested case–control (NCC) studies provide cost-effective alternatives but bring about challenges in statistical analyses due to complex data sets generated.

Methods

To evaluate prognostic accuracy of a risk model, Cai and Zheng proposed a class of nonparametric inverse probability weighting (IPW) estimators for accuracy measures in the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. To accommodate a three-phase NCC design in Nurses’ Health Study, we extend the double IPW estimators of Cai and Zheng to develop risk prediction models under time-dependent generalized linear models and evaluate the incremental values of new biomarkers and genetic markers.

Results

Our results suggest that aggregating the information from both the genetic markers and biomarkers substantially improves the accuracy for predicting 5-year and 10-year risks of rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusions

Our method provided robust procedures to evaluate the incremental value of new biomarkers allowing for complex sampling designs.
Social Class and (Un)Ethical Behavior
Authors: Trautmann Stefan T. , van de Kuilen Gijs , Zeckhauser Richard J.
Published: September 2013

Differences in ethical behavior between members of the upper and lower classes have been at the center of civic debates in recent years. In this article, we present a framework for understanding how class affects ethical standards and behaviors. We apply the framework using data from a large Dutch population sample. The data include objective measures of class, survey responses relating to ethical behavior, and results from an experiment designed to probe ethical choices. Ethical behavior proves to be affected by (a) moral values, (b) social orientation, and (c) the costs and benefits of taking various actions. Strong class differences emerge in each of these areas, leading to differences in behavior. Moreover, strong differences among different conceptions of class (wealth, education, etc.) produce additional variation. We argue that the relationship between class and ethical behavior is far from a simple pattern; it is a complex mosaic.
Ellen Berscheid, Elaine Hatfield, and the Emergence of Relationship Science
Authors: Reis Harry T. , Aron Arthur , Clark Margaret S. , Finkel Eli J.
Published: September 2013

In the past 25 years, relationship science has grown from a nascent research area to a thriving subdiscipline of psychological science. In no small measure, this development reflects the pioneering contributions of Ellen Berscheid and Elaine Hatfield. Beginning at a time when relationships did not appear on the map of psychological science, these two scholars identified relationships as a crucial subject for scientific psychology and began to chart its theoretical and empirical territory. In this article, we review several of their most influential contributions, describing the innovative foundation they built as well as the manner in which this foundation helped set the stage for contemporary advances in knowledge about relationships. We conclude by discussing the broader relevance of this work for psychological science.
Six Guidelines for Interesting Research
Authors: Gray Kurt , Wegner Daniel M.
Published: September 2013

There are many guides on proper psychology, but far fewer on interesting psychology. This article presents six guidelines for interesting research. The first three—Phenomena First, Be Surprising, and Grandmothers, Not Scientists—suggest how to choose your research question; the last three—Be The Participant, Simple Statistics, and Powerful Beginnings—suggest how to answer your research question and offer perspectives on experimental design, statistical analysis, and effective communication. These guidelines serve as reminders that replicability is necessary but not sufficient for compelling psychological science. Interesting research considers subjective experience; it listens to the music of the human condition.
Chronic management of stable COPD
Authors: Sadler Jonathan , Corcoran John P
Published: September 2013

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects around 6% of the UK adult population. Despite many still being undiagnosed, the condition continues to place a high demand on primary care services. With almost 20% of adults in the UK continuing to smoke, a figure that has remained steady for the last 5 years, the burden placed on primary care of consequential diseases such as COPD can also be expected to persist; indeed, it is estimated that COPD will become the world’s third leading cause of death by 2020. As COPD is so common, there is continual research and regularly updated recommendations about how it should be treated. Ideally, modern treatment should optimise patient quality of life, as well as reduce infective and non-infective exacerbations that result in hospital admissions. This article looks at the most up-to-date educational, pharmacological and physiological interventions, as well as discussing the role played by other members of the multidisciplinary team and what to consider when reviewing a patient.
Yoga as an Alternative and Complementary Approach for Arthritis
Authors: Sharma Manoj
Published: September 2013

In the United States, approximately 21% of the adults suffer from arthritis. Yoga offers one possible way of managing arthritis. The purpose of this study was to look at studies from 2010 to June 2013 and examine whether yoga can be an efficacious approach for managing arthritis. A systematic search from Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, and Alt HealthWatch databases was conducted for quantitative articles involving all schools of yoga. A total of 9 articles met the inclusion criteria. Five of these were from the United States and 4 from India. Of the 9 studies, 6 demonstrated positive changes in psychological or physiological outcomes related to arthritis. Despite the limitations not all studies using randomized controlled design, having smaller sample sizes, having different outcomes, having nonstandardized yoga intervention, not using behavioral theory, and having varying lengths, yoga appears to be a promising modality for arthritis.
Experimental Study of a Self-Determination Intervention for Youth in Foster Care
Authors: Geenen Sarah , Powers Laurie E. , Powers Jennifer , Cunningham Miranda , McMahon Lisa , Nelson May , Dalton Lawrence D. , Swank Paul , Fullerton Ann ,   other members of the Research Consortium to Increase the Success of Youth in Foster Care
Published: September 2013

The aim of the study was to conduct a longitudinal, randomized clinical trial of the efficacy of TAKE CHARGE, a self-determination enhancement intervention, for promoting the school performance of youth in special education and foster care. A total of 133 youth were randomized to either a control group that received typical services, or to the intervention group that received coaching in the application of self-determination skills to achieve their goals, as well as participating in group mentoring workshops with successful young adult alumni of foster care. Findings on the outcomes of 123 youth who completed the study suggest gains for the intervention group in elements of self-determination, engagement in educational planning, school performance, and reduced anxiety and depression.
Transition to Postsecondary Education
Authors: Shaw Stan F. , Dukes Lyman L.
Published: September 2013

Transition policy and programs have primarily focused on preparing students with disabilities for employment. Public policy over the last three decades has gradually broadened to include increasing emphasis on transition to postsecondary education. To date, the literature has primarily addressed matters related to demographics, legislation and policy, and the differences in expectations between secondary and postsecondary education. The authors call upon the field to set a transition research agenda resulting in evidence-based practices that will support the postsecondary educational goals of all students with disabilities.
Protein S levels and the risk of venous thrombosis: results from the MEGA case-control study
Authors: Pintao Maria Carolina , Ribeiro Daniel D. , Bezemer Irene D. , Garcia Andrea A. , de Visser Marieke C. H. , Doggen Carine J. M. , Lijfering Willem M. , Reitsma Pieter H. , Rosendaal Frits R.
Published: September 2013

Key Points

Low free protein S and low total protein S levels could not identify subjects at risk for venous thrombosis in a population-based study. Protein S testing and subsequent testing on PROS1 mutations should not be considered in unselected patients with venous thrombosis.
Massively parallel sequencing: the new frontier of hematologic genomics
Authors: Johnsen Jill M. , Nickerson Deborah A. , Reiner Alex P.
Published: September 2013

Genomic technologies are becoming a routine part of human genetic analysis. The exponential growth in DNA sequencing capability has brought an unprecedented understanding of human genetic variation and the identification of thousands of variants that impact human health. In this review, we describe the different types of DNA variation and provide an overview of existing DNA sequencing technologies and their applications. As genomic technologies and knowledge continue to advance, they will become integral in clinical practice. To accomplish the goal of personalized genomic medicine for patients, close collaborations between researchers and clinicians will be essential to develop and curate deep databases of genetic variation and their associated phenotypes.
Requirement of epithelial integrin-linked kinase for facilitation of Citrobacter rodentium-induced colitis
Authors: Assi Kiran , Bergstrom Kirk , Vallance Bruce , Owen David , Salh Baljinder
Published: September 2013

Background

Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) is a serine-threonine kinase that transduces extracellular matrix-related cues into intracellular signals, with fundamental roles in cell motility, development and cancer. Recently ILK been shown to have an important role in bacterial epithelial cell attachment, through ILK-bacterial OspE binding. Here we report on the role of epithelial derived ILK in response to Citrobacter rodentium infection.

Methods

C. rodentium was administered to both control and intestinal epithelial cell ILK knockout mice. Histological inflammatory scores were assessed, and cytokines measured by ELISA as well as RT-PCR, in mouse colons. Bacterial colonization was determined by plating homogenates onto MacConkey agar, and immunofluorescence microscopy performed using anti-LPS and anti-Tir antibodies.

Results

ILK-ko mice exhibited reduced weight loss at 15 days post-infection (p < 0.01) and demonstrated reduced histological inflammatory scores (p < 0.01), reduced CCL2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This was not due to reduced colonization, but was associated with an altered pattern of C. rodentium bacterial migration. Attenuated fibronectin expression was found in the ILK-ko mice. C. rodentium exposure was shown to increase ILK expression in cell lines, and in murine epithelium in vivo. In ILK-ko mice reduced activation of ser473Akt and reduced crypt proliferation, together with reduced cyclin D1 expression were observed.

Conclusions

ILK influences the host response to C. rodentium -induced infection, independently of reduced colonization in the ILK knockout mice. The reduced inflammation and dramatically attenuated hyperplastic cryptal response to infection in this group, are at least in part the result of, the reduction in CCL2 and cyclin D1 expression respectively.
Feasibility study on full closed-loop control ventilation (IntelliVent-ASV™) in ICU patients with acute respiratory failure: a prospective observational comparative study
Authors: Arnal Jean-Michel , Garnero Aude , Novonti Dominik , Demory Didier , Ducros Laurent , Berric Audrey , Donati Stéphane Yannis , Corno Gaëlle , Jaber Samir , Durand-Gasselin Jacques
Published: September 2013

Introduction

IntelliVent-ASV™ is a full closed-loop ventilation mode that automatically adjusts ventilation and oxygenation parameters in both passive and active patients. This feasibility study compared oxygenation and ventilation settings automatically selected by IntelliVent-ASV™ among three predefined lung conditions (normal lung, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)) in active and passive patients. The feasibility of IntelliVent-ASV™ use was assessed based on the number of safety events, the need to switch to conventional mode for any medical reason, and sensor failure.

Method

This prospective observational comparative study included 100 consecutive patients who were invasively ventilated for less than 24 hours at the time of inclusion with an expected duration of ventilation of more than 12 hours. Patients were ventilated using IntelliVent-ASV™ from inclusion to extubation. Settings, automatically selected by the ventilator, delivered ventilation, respiratory mechanics, and gas exchanges were recorded once a day.

Results

Regarding feasibility, all patients were ventilated using IntelliVent-ASV™ (392 days in total). No safety issues occurred and there was never a need to switch to an alternative ventilation mode. The fully automated ventilation was used for 95% of the total ventilation time. IntelliVent-ASV™ selected different settings according to lung condition in passive and active patients. In passive patients, tidal volume (VT), predicted body weight (PBW) was significantly different between normal lung (n = 45), ARDS (n = 16) and COPD patients (n = 19) (8.1 (7.3 to 8.9) mL/kg; 7.5 (6.9 to 7.9) mL/kg; 9.9 (8.3 to 11.1) mL/kg, respectively; P 0.05). In passive ARDS patients, FiO2 and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) were statistically higher than passive normal lung (35 (33 to 47)% versus 30 (30 to 31)% and 11 (8 to 13) cmH2O versus 5 (5 to 6) cmH2O, respectively; P< 0.05).

Conclusions

IntelliVent-ASV™ was safely used in unselected ventilated ICU patients with different lung conditions. Automatically selected oxygenation and ventilation settings were different according to the lung condition, especially in passive patients.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01489085
Successful Treatment of Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia due to an Intracranial Tumor by Fractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy
Authors: Tarasova Valentina D. , Trepp-Carrasco Alejandro G. , Thompson Robert , Recker Robert R. , Chong William H. , Collins Michael T. , Armas Laura A. G.
Published: September 2013

Context:

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome, characterized by tumor secretion of fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF23) causing hypophosphatemia due to renal phosphate wasting. TIO is usually caused by small, benign, difficult-to-localize, mesenchymal tumors. Although surgery with wide excision of tumor borders is considered the “gold standard” for definitive therapy, it can be associated with considerable morbidity depending on the location. To date, radiation therapy has not been considered as an effective treatment modality in TIO.

Objective:

A 67-year-old female presented with multiple nontraumatic fractures, progressive bone pain, and muscle weakness for 4 years. She was found to have biochemical evidence of urinary phosphate wasting with low serum phosphorus, low-normal serum calcium, normal 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, and high serum FGF23 levels. TIO was diagnosed. Selective venous sampling for FGF23 confirmed that a 1.7-cm left frontal mass, radiographically similar to a meningioma, was the causative tumor. She declined surgery due to fear of complications and instead underwent fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy for 6 weeks.

Results:

In less than 4 years after radiation therapy, she was successfully weaned off phosphorus and calcitriol, starting from 2 g of oral phosphorus daily and 1 μg of calcitriol daily. Her symptoms have resolved, and she has not had any new fractures.

Conclusions:

Stereotactic radiotherapy was an effective treatment modality for TIO in our patient. Fractionated stereotactic radiation therapy represents an alternative to surgery for patients with TIO who are not surgical candidates or who decline surgery.
Golden Dawn or Democratic Sunset: The Rise of the Far Right in Greece
Authors: Bistis George
Published: September 2013

This essay traces the history of the Far Right in Greece, which is on the rise again almost four decades after the collapse of the military junta that ruled the Mediterranean country from 1967 to 1974. The author examines how the Golden Dawn party capitalized on Greek citizens' anxieties brought about by economic crisis, illegal immigration issues, high unemployment rates, increases in crime, anti-austerity public sentiments, and the uncertainty over the country's future to become, in just a few years, a formidable political party in Greece.
High plasticity in epithelial morphogenesis during insect dorsal closure
Authors: Panfilio Kristen A. , Oberhofer Georg , Roth Siegfried
Published: September 2013

Insect embryos complete the outer form of the body via dorsal closure (DC) of the epidermal flanks, replacing the transient extraembryonic (EE) tissue. Cell shape changes and morphogenetic behavior are well characterized for DC in Drosophila, but these data represent a single species with a secondarily reduced EE component (the amnioserosa) that is not representative across the insects. Here, we examine DC in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, providing the first detailed, functional analysis of DC in an insect with complete EE tissues (distinct amnion and serosa). Surprisingly, we find that differences between Drosophila and Tribolium DC are not restricted to the EE tissue, but also encompass the dorsal epidermis, which differs in cellular architecture and method of final closure (zippering). We then experimentally manipulated EE tissue complement via RNAi for Tc-zen1, allowing us to eliminate the serosa and still examine viable DC in a system with a single EE tissue (the amnion). We find that the EE domain is particularly plastic in morphogenetic behavior and tissue structure. In contrast, embryonic features and overall kinetics are robust to Tc-zen1RNAi manipulation in Tribolium and conserved with a more distantly related insect, but remain substantially different from Drosophila. Although correct DC is essential, plasticity and regulative, compensatory capacity have permitted DC to evolve within the insects. Thus, DC does not represent a strong developmental constraint on the nature of EE development, a property that may have contributed to the reduction of the EE component in the fly lineage.
Dynamic association of the ULK1 complex with omegasomes during autophagy induction
Authors: Karanasios Eleftherios , Stapleton Eloise , Manifava Maria , Kaizuka Takeshi , Mizushima Noboru , Walker Simon A. , Ktistakis Nicholas T.
Published: September 2013

Induction of autophagy requires the ULK1 protein kinase complex and the Vps34 lipid kinase complex. PI3P synthesised by Vps34 accumulates in omegasomes, membrane extensions of the ER within which some autophagosomes form, whereas the ULK1 complex is thought to target autophagosomes independently of PI3P, and its functional relation to omegasomes is unclear. Here we show that the ULK1 complex colocalizes with omegasomes in a PI3P-dependent way. Live imaging of Atg13 (a ULK1 complex component), omegasomes and LC3 establishes and annotates for the first time a complete sequence of steps leading to autophagosome formation as follows: Upon starvation, ULK1 complex forms puncta associated with the ER and sporadically with mitochondria. If PI3P is available, these puncta become omegasomes. Subsequently, the ULK1 complex exits omegasomes and autophagosomes bud off. If PI3P is unavailable, ULK1 puncta are greatly reduced in number and duration. Atg13 (a component of the ULK1 complex) contains a region with affinity for acidic phospholipids, required for translocation to punctate structures and autophagy progression.
Nucleophagy at a glance
Authors: Mijaljica Dalibor , Devenish Rodney J.
Published: September 2013

Under certain circumstances, the removal of damaged or non-essential parts of the nucleus, or even an entire nucleus, is crucial in order to promote cell longevity and enable proper function. A selective form of autophagy, known as nucleophagy, can be used to accomplish the degradation of nucleus-derived material. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster, we summarize the similarities and differences between the divergent modes of nucleophagy that have been described to date, emphasizing, where possible, the molecular mechanism, the membrane interactions and rearrangements, and the nature of the nucleus-derived material that is degraded. In turn, we will consider nucleophagy processes in the lower eukaryotes, the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, filamentous fungi Aspergillus and Magnaporthe oryzae and the ciliated protozoan Tetrahymena thermophila, and finally in mammalian cells. We will also briefly discuss the emerging links between nucleophagy and human disease.
How do Surgical Trainees Without a Higher Degree Compare with their Postdoctoral Peers?
Authors: Ansell J , Mason J , Beamish AJ , Warren N , Torkington J
Published: September 2013

In 2011 the royal college of surgeons published From Theory to Theatre. This document states that delivering high quality research is the responsibility of anyone involved in any aspect of surgery. In 2012 the college outlined plans to develop a nationwide research infrastructure to allow the expansion of clinical trials in surgery. This incorporates trainee research groups, which are growing in popularity and productivity. The aim is to give surgical trainees the opportunity to facilitate large scale, multicentre clinical trials. Current activity is therefore placing increasing emphasis on conducting good quality research at all stages of surgical training.
Reconstruction of the support function for inclusion from boundary measurements
Authors: Ikehata M.
Published: September 2013

- First we give a formula (procedure) for the reconstruction of the support function for unknown inclusion by means of the Dirichlet to Neumann map. In the procedure we never make use of the unique continuation property or the Runge approximation property of the governing equation. Second we apply the method to a similar problem for the Helmholtz equation.
Defective Escape Behavior in DEAH-Box RNA Helicase Mutants Improved by Restoring Glycine Receptor Expression
Authors: Hirata Hiromi , Ogino Kazutoyo , Yamada Kenta , Leacock Sophie , Harvey Robert J.
Published: September 2013

RNA helicases regulate RNA metabolism, but their substrate specificity andin vivofunction remain largely unknown. We isolated spontaneous mutant zebrafish that exhibit an abnormal dorsal bend at the beginning of tactile-evoked escape swimming. Similar behavioral defects were observed in zebrafish embryos treated with strychnine, which blocks glycine receptors (GlyRs), suggesting that the abnormal motor response in mutants may be attributable to a deficit in glycinergic synaptic transmission. We identified a missense mutation in the gene encoding RNA helicase Dhx37. In Dhx37 mutants, ribosomal RNA levels were unchanged, whereas GlyR α1, α3, and α4a subunit mRNA levels were decreased due to a splicing defect. We found that Dhx37 can interact with GlyR α1, α3, and α4a transcripts but not with the GlyR α2 subunit mRNA. Overexpression of GlyR α1, α3, or α4a subunits in Dhx37-deficient embryos restored normal behavior. Conversely, antisense-mediated knockdown of multiple GlyR α subunits in wild-type embryos was required to recapitulate the Dhx37 mutant phenotype. These results indicate that Dhx37 is specifically required for the biogenesis of a subset of GlyR α subunit mRNAs, thereby regulating glycinergic synaptic transmission and associated motor behaviors. To our knowledge, this is the first identification of pathologically relevant substrates for an RNA helicase.