bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility and Field Performance of a Simultaneous Syphilis and HIV Point-of-Care Test Based Screening Strategy in at Risk Populations in Edmonton, Canada
Authors: Bergman Joshua , Gratrix Jennifer , Plitt Sabrina , Fenton Jayne , Archibald Chris , Wong Tom , Singh Ameeta E.
Published: December 2013

Few studies have evaluated the feasibility of delivering syphilis point-of-care (POC) testing in outreach (nonclinical) settings in resource rich countries. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the feasibility and diagnostic performance of performing both HIV and syphilis POC testing in outreach settings and to document new cases identified in the study population. 1,265 outreach testing visits were offered syphilis and HIV POC testing and 81.5% (n=1,031) consented to testing. In our population, the SD Bioline 3.0 Syphilis Test had a sensitivity of 85.3% [CI (68.9–95.0)], specificity of 100.0% [CI (99.6–100.0)], positive predictive value (PPV) of 100.0% [CI (88.1–100.0)], and negative predictive value (NPV) of 99.5% [CI (98.9–99.8)]. Test characteristics for the INSTI HIV-1/HIV-2 Antibody Test had a 100.0% sensitivity [CI (39.8–100.00], 99.8 specificity [CI (99.3–100)], 66.7% PPV [CI (22.3–95.7)], and 100.0% NPV [CI (99.6–100.0)]. Four new cases of syphilis and four new HIV cases were diagnosed. In summary, at risk population seeking STI testing found POC tests to be acceptable, the POC tests performed well in outreach settings, and new cases of syphilis and HIV were identified and linked to treatment and care.
Radionuclide Transport in Fractured Rock: Numerical Assessment for High Level Waste Repository
Authors: Silveira Claudia Siqueira da , Alvim Antonio Carlos Marques , Rivero Oliva Jose de Jesus
Published: December 2013

Deep and stable geological formations with low permeability have been considered for high level waste definitive repository. A common problem is the modeling of radionuclide migration in a fractured medium. Initially, we considered a system consisting of a rock matrix with a single planar fracture in water saturated porous rock. Transport in the fracture is assumed to obey an advection-diffusion equation, while molecular diffusion is considered the dominant mechanism of transport in porous matrix. The partial differential equations describing the movement of radionuclides were discretized by finite difference methods, namely, fully explicit, fully implicit, and Crank-Nicolson schemes. The convective term was discretized by the following numerical schemes: backward differences, centered differences, and forward differences. The model was validated using an analytical solution found in the literature. Finally, we carried out a simulation with relevant spent fuel nuclide data with a system consisting of a horizontal fracture and a vertical fracture for assessing the performance of a hypothetical repository inserted into the host rock. We have analysed the bentonite expanded performance at the beginning of fracture, the quantified radionuclide released from a borehole, and an estimated effective dose to an adult, obtained from ingestion of well water during one year.
Hybrid Multicriteria Group Decision Making Method for Information System Project Selection Based on Intuitionistic Fuzzy Theory
Authors: Guo Jian
Published: December 2013

Information system (IS) project selection is of critical importance to every organization in dynamic competing environment. The aim of this paper is to develop a hybrid multicriteria group decision making approach based on intuitionistic fuzzy theory for IS project selection. The decision makers’ assessment information can be expressed in the form of real numbers, interval-valued numbers, linguistic variables, and intuitionistic fuzzy numbers (IFNs). All these evaluation pieces of information can be transformed to the form of IFNs. Intuitionistic fuzzy weighted averaging (IFWA) operator is utilized to aggregate individual opinions of decision makers into a group opinion. Intuitionistic fuzzy entropy is used to obtain the entropy weights of the criteria. TOPSIS method combined with intuitionistic fuzzy set is proposed to select appropriate IS project in group decision making environment. Finally, a numerical example for information system projects selection is given to illustrate application of hybrid multi-criteria group decision making (MCGDM) method based on intuitionistic fuzzy theory and TOPSIS method.
Field Measurement of Wind Speeds and Wind-Induced Responses atop the Shanghai World Financial Center under Normal Climate Conditions
Authors: Quan Yong , Wang Shuai , Gu Ming , Kuang Jun
Published: December 2013

Field measurement data on wind velocities and wind-induced acceleration responses at the top of the 492 m high Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) under normal climate conditions are studied. Characteristics of the mean wind speeds and turbulence intensities, gust factors, power spectral densities, and turbulence integral scales of the fluctuating wind speed are analyzed in different observation time intervals. Power spectral densities of wind-induced acceleration are also investigated. The basic natural frequencies and structural damping ratios of the building are identified based on Hilbert-Huang transform method and random decrement method. The field measurement results of wind-induced responses of the SWFC are finally compared with those from the corresponding high-frequency force balance wind tunnel test study.
Imperfect Production System under Reverse Logistics in Stock-Out Situation: EPQ Model
Authors: Dem Himani , Prasher Leena
Published: December 2013

This paper derives a reverse logistic inventory model with imperfect production, stock-dependent demand, flexible manufacturing, and shortages over infinite planning horizon. The objective is to determine the joint policy for optimal production, amount of remanufacturing, collection of reusable items, and collection as well as disposal of defective items which minimizes the total cost of the inventory system under consideration. To make the model more realistic, both of the cases of linear and nonlinear holding costs have been discussed. The results are discussed with a numerical example to illustrate the theory.
Maximum Principle for Delayed Stochastic Linear-Quadratic Control Problem with State Constraint
Authors: Zhang Feng
Published: December 2013

This paper is concerned with one kind of delayed stochastic linear-quadratic optimal control problems with state constraints. The control domain is not necessarily convex and the control variable does not enter the diffusion coefficient. Necessary conditions in the form of maximum principle as well as sufficient conditions are established.
Integrated MicroRNA Network Analyses Identify a Poor-Prognosis Subtype of Gastric Cancer Characterized by the miR-200 Family
Authors: Song Fengju , Yang Da , Liu Ben , Guo Yan , Zheng Hong , Li Lian , Wang Tao , Yu Jinpu , Zhao Yanrui , Niu Ruifang , Liang Han , Winkler Hans , Zhang Wei , Hao Xishan , Chen Kexin
Published: December 2013

Purpose: Our aim was to investigate whether microRNAs can predict the clinical outcome of patients with gastric cancer. We used integrated analysis of microRNA and mRNA expression profiles to identify gastric cancer microRNA subtypes and their underlying regulatory scenarios.

Experimental Design: MicroRNA-based gastric cancer subtypes were identified by consensus clustering analysis of microRNA profiles of 90 gastric cancer tissues. Activated pathways in the subtypes were identified by gene expression profiles. Further integrated analysis was conducted to model a microRNA regulatory network for each subtype. RNA and protein expression were analyzed by RT-PCR and tissue microarray, respectively, in a cohort of 385 gastric cancer cases (including the 90 cases for profiling) to validate the key microRNAs and targets in the network. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments were carried out to further validate the findings.

Results: MicroRNA profiles of 90 gastric cancer cases identified two microRNA subtypes significantly associated with survival. The poor-prognosis gastric cancer microRNA subtype was characterized by overexpression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. This gastric cancer “mesenchymal subtype” was further validated in a patient cohort comprising 385 cases. Integrated analysis identified a key microRNA regulatory network likely driving the gastric cancer mesenchymal subtype. Three of the microRNAs (miR-200c, miR-200b, and miR-125b) targeting the most genes in the network were significantly associated with survival. Functional experiments demonstrated that miR-200b suppressed ZEB1, augmented E-cadherin, inhibited cell migration, and suppressed tumor growth in a mouse model.

Conclusions: We have uncovered a key microRNA regulatory network that defines the mesenchymal gastric cancer subtype significantly associated with poor overall survival in gastric cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 20(4); 878–89. ©2013 AACR.
Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Effects of Indomethacin on Human Retinoblastoma Cell Line Y79 and the Involvement of ß-Catenin, Nuclear Factor-κB and Akt Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zheng Qinxiang , Zhang Ying , Ren Yueping , Wu Yijun , Yang Shelley , Zhang Yuanping , Chen Hao , Li Wensheng , Zhu Yihua
Published: December 2013

Background: To determine in vitro if indomethacin inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in human retinoblastoma cell line Y79, and to explore possibly involved signaling pathways. Methods: The human retinoblastoma cell line Y79 was cultured with indomethacin at various concentrations (0, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 400 µmol/l). The effect of indomethacin on cell proliferation and apoptosis was examined by the Cell Counting Kit-8 and TUNEL test, respectively. The mRNA level of survivin, ß-catenin and Bcl-2 was detected by RT-PCR. The protein level of survivin was measured by ELISA. Western blot was used to analyze ß-catenin, nuclear factor (NF)-κB/p65, phosphorylated Akt (pAkt) and total Akt (tAkt) expression in cultured cells. Results: Indomethacin treatment inhibits proliferation (at concentrations from 25 to 400 µmol/l) and induces apoptosis (at concentrations from 100 to 400 µmol/l) of human retinoblastoma cell line Y79 in a dose-dependent manner. RT-PCR showed that the mRNA expression of Bcl-2 (F = 20.497; p < 0.001) and of ß-catenin (F = 14.835; p < 0.001) was significantly different among the treated groups. Survivin mRNA levels remained steady, but its protein levels decreased significantly as measured by ELISA (F = 67.633; p < 0.001). Western blot analysis showed a dose-dependent downregulation of ß-catenin (F = 37.411; p < 0.001), NF-κB/p65 (F = 16.302; p < 0.001) and of pAkt (F = 27.700; p < 0.001) after indomethacin treatment, while tAkt protein expression was steady among the groups. Conclusions: Treatment with indomethacin can potently suppress proliferation and induce apoptosis in the retinoblastoma Y79 cell line. Wnt/ß-catenin, NF-κB and Akt/PKB pathways might be implicated in the process.
Association Between Plasma Triglycerides and High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Microvascular Kidney Disease and Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sacks Frank M. , Hermans Michel P. , Fioretto Paola , Valensi Paul , Davis Timothy , Horton Edward , Wanner Christoph , Al-Rubeaan Khalid , Aronson Ronnie , Barzon Isabella , Bishop Louise , Bonora Enzo , Bunnag Pongamorn , Chuang Lee-Ming , Deerochanawong Chaicharn , Goldenberg Ronald , Harshfield Benjamin , Hernández Cristina , Herzlinger-Botein Susan , Itoh Hiroshi , Jia Weiping , Jiang Yi-Der , Kadowaki Takashi , Laranjo Nancy , Leiter Lawrence , Miwa Takashi , Odawara Masato , Ohashi Ken , Ohno Atsushi , Pan Changyu , Pan Jiemin , Pedro-Botet Juan , Reiner Zeljko , Rotella Carlo Maria , Simo Rafael , Tanaka Masami , Tedeschi-Reiner Eugenia , Twum-Barima David , Zoppini Giacomo , Carey Vincent J.
Published: December 2013

Background—

Microvascular renal and retinal diseases are common major complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The relation between plasma lipids and microvascular disease is not well established.

Methods and Results—

The case subjects were 2535 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with an average duration of 14 years, 1891 of whom had kidney disease and 1218 with retinopathy. The case subjects were matched for diabetes mellitus duration, age, sex, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol to 3683 control subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus who did not have kidney disease or retinopathy. The study was conducted in 24 sites in 13 countries. The primary analysis included kidney disease and retinopathy cases. Matched analysis was performed by use of site-specific conditional logistic regression in multivariable models that adjusted for hemoglobin A
1c
, hypertension, and statin treatment. Mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration was 2.3 mmol/L. The microvascular disease odds ratio increased by a factor of 1.16 (95% confidence interval, 1.11–1.22) for every 0.5 mmol/L (≈1 quintile) increase in triglycerides or decreased by a factor of 0.92 (0.88–0.96) for every 0.2 mmol/L (≈1 quintile) increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. For kidney disease, the odds ratio increased by 1.23 (1.16–1.31) with triglycerides and decreased by 0.86 (0.82–0.91) with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Retinopathy was associated with triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in matched analysis but not significantly after additional adjustment.

Conclusions—

Diabetic kidney disease is associated worldwide with higher levels of plasma triglycerides and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol among patients with good control of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Retinopathy was less robustly associated with these lipids. These results strengthen the rationale for studying dyslipidemia treatment to prevent diabetic microvascular disease.
Two new species of Trachyandra sect. Liriothamnus (Xanthorrhoeaceae, Asphodeloideae) from the Western and Eastern Cape Provinces of South Africa
Authors: Boatwright James Stephen , Manning John Charles
Published: December 2013

Trachyandra eriocarpa and T. bulbosa are two new species from Northern and Eastern Cape Provinces of South Africa. They are placed in T. sect. Liriothamnus based on their wiry roots, the cataphylls not forming membranous collars, and the remains of the outer leaves forming a fibrous collar. Trachyandra eriocarpa from the Great Winterberg in Eastern Cape is recognised by its unusual, villous ovary and capsules; and T. bulbosa from north of Springbok in Northern Cape by the irregular, bulbous rhizome, microscopically puberulous leaves and maculate tepals.
Seamless Precipitation Prediction Skill in the Tropics and Extratropics from a Global Model
Authors: Zhu Hongyan , Wheeler Matthew C. , Sobel Adam H. , Hudson Debra
Published: December 2013

The skill with which a coupled ocean–atmosphere model is able to predict precipitation over a range of time scales (days to months) is analyzed. For a fair comparison across the seamless range of scales, the verification is performed using data averaged over time windows equal in length to the lead time. At a lead time of 1 day, skill is greatest in the extratropics around 40°–60° latitude and lowest around 20°, and has a secondary local maximum close to the equator. The extratropical skill at this short range is highest in the winter hemisphere, presumably due to the higher predictability of winter baroclinic systems. The local equatorial maximum comes mostly from the Pacific Ocean, and thus appears to be mostly from El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). As both the lead time and averaging window are simultaneously increased, the extratropical skill drops rapidly with lead time, while the equatorial maximum remains approximately constant, causing the equatorial skill to exceed the extratropical at leads of greater than 4 days in austral summer and 1 week in boreal summer. At leads longer than 2 weeks, the extratropical skill flattens out or increases, but remains below the equatorial values. Comparisons with persistence confirm that the model beats persistence for most leads and latitudes, including for the equatorial Pacific where persistence is high. The results are consistent with the view that extratropical predictability is mostly derived from synoptic-scale atmospheric dynamics, while tropical predictability is primarily derived from the response of moist convection to slowly varying forcing such as from ENSO.
Pediatric Shopping-Cart-Related Injuries Treated in US Emergency Departments, 1990-2011
Authors: Martin Keith J. , Chounthirath Thiphalak , Xiang Huiyun , Smith Gary A.
Published: December 2013

This study investigates the effect of the 2004 US shopping cart safety standard on shopping-cart-related injuries among children younger than 15 years of age by retrospectively analyzing data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. An estimated 530 494 children younger than 15 years were treated in US emergency departments for shopping-cart-related injuries from 1990 to 2011, averaging 24 113 children annually. The most commonly injured body region was the head (78.1%). The annual concussion/closed head injury rate per 10 000 children increased significantly ( P < .001) by 213.3% from 0.64 in 1990 to 2.02 in 2011. Although a shopping cart safety standard was implemented in the United States in 2004, the overall number and rate of injuries associated with shopping carts have not decreased. In fact, the number and rate of concussions/closed head injuries have continued to climb. Increased prevention efforts are needed to address these injuries among children.
Intersecting gender with race and religiosity: Do unique social categories explain attitudes toward homosexuality?
Authors: Guittar Nicholas A , Pals Heili
Published: December 2013

Although attitudes toward homosexuality have been widely studied over the past 30 years, few studies have scrutinized the interaction effects between gender and race, and gender and religiosity, on attitudes toward homosexuality. This article analyzes US data from the fifth wave of the World Values Survey, collected in 2006 – a nationally representative sample of individuals residing in the United States. Contrary to previous research, no significant interaction is found between gender and race on attitudes toward homosexuality. This finding challenges conventional thinking on essentialized differences regarding racial groups and their attitudes toward homosexuality. The interaction between gender and religiosity, though, suggests that religiosity has a greater effect on women’s attitudes than men’s. Finally, the article shows that most of the difference in attitudes toward homosexuality between men and women is explained by differences in gender role beliefs.
Involuntary outpatient treatment for mental health problems in Switzerland: A literature review
Authors: Morandi Stéphane , Burns Tom
Published: December 2013

Background:

In 2008, the Swiss Civil Code was amended. From 1 January 2013, each Swiss canton may propose specific provisions for involuntary outpatient treatment (community treatment orders (CTOs)) for individuals with mental disorders.

Aim:

This review catalogues the legal provisions of the various Swiss cantons for CTOs and outlines the differences between them. It sets this in the context of variations in clinical provisions between the cantons.

Methods:

Databases were searched to obtain relevant publications about CTOs in Switzerland. The Swiss Medical Association, Swiss Federal Statistical Office, Swiss Health Observatory and all the 26 Cantonal medical officers were contacted to complete the information. Conférence des cantons en matière de protection des mineurs et des adultes (COPMA), the authority which monitors guardianship legislation, and Pro Mente Sana, a patients’ right association, were also approached.

Results:

Three articles about CTOs in Switzerland were identified. Psychiatric provisions vary considerably between cantons and only a few could provide complete or even partial figures for rates of compulsion in previous years. Prior to 2013, only 6 of the 20 cantons, for which information was returned, had any provision for CTOs. Now, every canton has some form of legal basis but the level of detail is often limited. In eight cantons, the powers of the measure are not specified (for example, use of medication). In 12 cantons, the maximum duration of the CTO is not specified. German speaking cantons and rural cantons are more likely to specify the details of CTOs.

Conclusion:

Highly variable Swiss provision for CTOs is being introduced despite the absence of convincing international evidence for their effectiveness or good quality data on current coercive practice. Careful monitoring and assessment of these new cantonal provisions are essential.
Communicating security? Policing urban spaces and control signals
Authors: Barker Anna
Published: December 2013

The rise of reassurance policing in the UK, informed by ideas drawn from a Signal Crimes Perspective, replaced a narrow focus on controlling crime with a broader emphasis on communicating security. This paper provides a sympathetic critique of dominant assumptions implied in this policy shift concerning the reassurance function of policing. Important in these theoretically informed policy debates is the idea that the police and their partners, through symbolic communications, can influence the extent to which individuals perceive that order and security exist within urban spaces. The paper draws on research findings to illustrate the contrasting ways visible signifiers of crime and formal controls are received and interpreted by diverse audiences. It challenges assumptions about the impact of criminal activities upon perceptions of safety and contributes insights into the unintended effects of formal controls that have implications for our understanding of local social order.
Endoscopic Posterior Cordotomy with Microdissection Radiofrequency Electrodes for Bilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis
Authors: Oysu Cagatay , Toros Sema Zer , Tepe‐Karaca Çiğdem , Şahin Serap , Sahin‐Yilmaz Asli
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of endoscopic posterior cordotomy using microdissection electrodes in patients with bilateral vocal cord paralysis. Eleven patients underwent endoscopic posterior cordotomy using a radiofrequency Arrowtip monopolar needle. Preoperative‐postoperative exercise tolerance, airway, and voice evaluation were performed in all patients. Two patients required a secondary revision operation due to granulation and crust formation and respiratory problems. No other complications were encountered. Two patients with tracheotomy cannulas were decannulated on the third postoperative day. All patients had an adequate functional airway and good exercise tolerance compared with poor preoperative exercise tolerance. There was no significant difference between preoperative and postoperative Voice Handicap Index values (P >. 05). The data indicated the safety, easy use, and efficiency of the microdissection radiofrequency electrodes in patients with bilateral vocal fold paralysis. This technique provides a reliable alternative to laser procedures.
Child mortality, health expenditure and poverty in the western nations 1979–2010: Are English-speaking countries’ children disadvantaged?
Authors: Pritchard Colin , Williams Richard J , Wallace Mark S
Published: December 2013

Child mortality rates (0–4 years) between 1979 and 2010 and poverty were shown to be significantly worse in five of the six English-speaking countries than in the other 15 western nations suggesting that in these countries children are relatively disadvantaged.
HIV knowledge and risks among Vietnamese men who have sex with men travelling abroad
Authors: Nguyen Huyen , Nguyen Hoang Quan , Colby Donn Joseph
Published: December 2013

Rapid economic and social development in Vietnam has resulted in increased opportunities for travel and new potential routes of HIV transmission. We conducted a cross-sectional study examining demographics, knowledge, and sexual risk behaviour amongst 100 Vietnamese men who have sex with men who traveled abroad in the previous 12 months. Men who have sex with men surveyed were mostly university-educated, single, and under 30. Most travel (73%) was within Southeast Asia and was undertaken for tourism (51%) or for work (29%). Casual sex with a foreign partner occurred on 39% of trips. Only four were reported to have involved in unsafe sex with a casual partner. Four reported illicit drug use. Alcohol was widely consumed. Multivariate analysis showed that two variables, travelling alone (OR = 5.26, p < 0.001) and a university education (OR = 4.05, p = 0.004), were significantly associated with casual sex abroad. More HIV prevention education on the risks of sex while travelling abroad is needed for men who have sex with men in Vietnam.
Mass Shootings in America
Authors: Fox James Alan , DeLateur Monica J.
Published: December 2013

Mass shootings at a Connecticut elementary school, a Colorado movie theater, and other venues have prompted a fair number of proposals for change. Advocates for tighter gun restrictions, for expanding mental health services, for upgrading security in public places, and, even, for controlling violent entertainment have made certain assumptions about the nature of mass murder that are not necessarily valid. This article examines a variety of myths and misconceptions about multiple homicide and mass shooters, pointing out some of the difficult realities in trying to avert these murderous rampages. While many of the policy proposals are worthwhile in general, their prospects for reducing the risk of mass murder are limited.
The Influence of the Length of the First Metatarsal on the Risk of Reulceration in the Feet of Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Molines-Barroso Raúl J. , Lázaro-Martínez José L. , Aragón-Sánchez Javier , García-Morales Esther , Carabantes-Alarcón David , Álvaro-Afonso Francisco Javier
Published: December 2013

Our aim was to identify the optimal diagnostic cutoff point on the scale of protrusion measurements of the first metatarsal (M1) to predict the probability of reulceration after metatarsal head resection in patients with diabetes mellitus. We conducted a prospective study of patients with diabetes who underwent resection of at least 1 metatarsal head in our department. After surgery, we measured the difference in length (protrusion) between the M1 and the longest of the 4 lesser metatarsals by radiographic view. The patients were divided into those in whom the M1 was the longest of the 5 metatarsals (group 1) and patients in whom at least one of the lesser metatarsals was longer than the M1 (group 2). They were followed-up for 12 months and were assessed for reulceration. Ninety-one patients were included in the present study: 43 (47%) in group 1 and 48 (53%) in group 2. In group 1, the longer the protrusion of M1 was, the higher the probability for reulceration ( P < .001, 95% confidence interval = 0.813-0.997). In group 2, the shorter the protrusion of M1, the higher the probability for reulceration ( P = .002, 95% confidence interval = 0.628-0.905). The optimal cutoff point for group 1 was 11 mm (sensitivity = 84.6%, specificity = 86.7%) for the probability of reulceration. In group 2, it was −7 mm (sensitivity = 81.8%, specificity = 65.4%). These results suggest that M1 protrusion is an optimum prognostic indicator for reulceration and could be recommended for detecting patients at risk of reulceration after surgery.
Does the Long Arm of US Macroeconomic Policy Reach South Asia?
Authors: Carmignani Fabrizio
Published: December 2013

What is the effect of US macroeconomic policy on the business cycle of South Asian economies? The evidence reported in this article suggests that there is little systematic contemporaneous effect of US monetary policy on South Asian GDP. The lagged effect of US monetary policy tends to be statistically significant, but it appears that a monetary expansion in the US in year t lowers real GDP in year t + 1 in a majority of South Asian economies. Conversely, US fiscal policy has both contemporaneous and lagged Keynesian effects in a majority of countries. Interestingly, the lagged effect is quantitatively larger than the contemporaneous effect. The paper also looks at the impact of domestic macroeconomic policy in South Asian countries. Two key results emerge in this respect. First, the contemporaneous effects of domestic monetary and fiscal policy are in line with ‘Keynesian’ predictions: an increase (decrease) in government consumption or money growth increases (decreases) real GDP. Second, there is also evidence of significant lagged effects of domestic macroeconomic policies. However, while the sign of the lagged effect of fiscal policy is generally the same as the sign of the contemporaneous effect, for monetary policy the sign of the lagged effect is inverted in some countries.

JEL Classification: E32 E52, E63, E62, C23
A lack of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) causes defects in granulocytic differentiation
Authors: Klimenkova Olga , Ellerbeck Wienke , Klimiankou Maksim , Ünalan Murat , Kandabarau Siarhei , Gigina Anna , Hussein Kais , Zeidler Cornelia , Welte Karl , Skokowa Julia
Published: December 2013

Key Points

The natural inhibitor of neutrophil elastase, SLPI, is severely reduced in severe congenital neutropenia patients. SLPI controls myeloid differentiation by regulation of NFκB, ERK1/2:LEF-1, and c-myc activation.
Whole-genome integrative analysis reveals expression signatures predicting transformation in follicular lymphoma
Authors: Brodtkorb Marianne , Lingjærde Ole Christian , Huse Kanutte , Trøen Gunhild , Hystad Marit , Hilden Vera I. , Myklebust June H. , Leich Ellen , Rosenwald Andreas , Delabie Jan , Holte Harald , Smeland Erlend B.
Published: December 2013

Key Points

Whole-genome integrative analyses in FL reveal that genes strongly influenced by copy number are highly enriched for NF-kB pathway regulators. Subsignatures of the NF-kB targets predict transformation in FL.
Research on the relationship between fibrinogen level and subtypes of the TOAST criteria in the acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Lang Qi , Zhou Muke , Feng Hong , Guo Jian , Chen Ning , He Li
Published: December 2013

Background

Cerebral infarction caused by different reasons seems differ in fibrinogen levels, so the current work intends to explore the relationship between the fibrinogen level and subtypes of the TOAST criteria in the acute stage of ischemic stroke.

Methods

A total of 577 case research objects were treated acute ischemic stroke patients in our hospital from December 2008 to December 2010, and blood samples within 72 hours of the onset were processed with the fibrinogen (PT-der) measurement. Classification of selected patients according to the TOAST Criteria was conducted to study the distribution of fibrinogen levels in the stroke subtypes.

Results

The distribution of fibrinogen levels in the subtypes was observed to be statistically insignificant.

Conclusions

In the acute stage of ischemic stroke, fibrinogen level was not related to the subtypes of the TOAST criteria.
High protein intake is associated with low prevalence of frailty among old Japanese women: a multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Kobayashi Satomi , Asakura Keiko , Suga Hitomi , Sasaki Satoshi ,   the Three-generation Study of Women on Diets and Health Study Group
Published: December 2013

Background

Protein intake has been inversely associated with frailty. However, no study has examined the effect of the difference of protein sources (animal or plant) or the amino acid composing the protein on frailty. Therefore, we examined the association of protein and amino acid intakes with frailty among elderly Japanese women.

Methods

A total of 2108 grandmothers or acquaintances of dietetic students aged 65 years and older participated in this cross-sectional multicenter study, which was conducted in 85 dietetic schools in 35 prefectures of Japan. Intakes of total, animal, and plant protein and eight selected amino acids were estimated from a validated brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire and amino acid composition database. Frailty was defined as the presence of three or more of the following four components: slowness and weakness (two points), exhaustion, low physical activity, and unintentional weight loss.

Results

The number of subjects with frailty was 481 (23%). Adjusted ORs (95% CI) for frailty in the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth quintiles of total protein intake were 1.00 (reference), 1.02 (0.72, 1.45), 0.64 (0.45, 0.93), 0.62 (0.43, 0.90), and 0.66 (0.46, 0.96), respectively (P for trend = 0.001). Subjects categorized to the third, fourth, and fifth quintiles of total protein intake (>69.8 g/d) showed significantly lower ORs than those to the first quintile (all P <0.03). The intakes of animal and plant protein and all selected amino acids were also inversely associated with frailty (P for trend <0.04), with the multivariate adjusted OR in the highest compared to the lowest quintile of 0.73 for animal protein and 0.66 for plant protein, and 0.67-0.74 for amino acids, albeit that the ORs for these dietary variables were less marked than those for total protein.

Conclusions

Total protein intake was significantly inversely associated with frailty in elderly Japanese women. The association of total protein with frailty may be observed regardless of the source of protein and the amino acid composing the protein.
Synthesis and psychobiological evaluation of modafinil analogs in mice
Authors: Lari Arezou , Karimi Isaac , Adibi Hadi , Aliabadi Alireza , Firoozpour Loghman , Foroumadi Alireza
Published: December 2013

Background and the purpose of the study

Modafinil, a novel wake-promoting agent with low potential for abuse and dependence, has a reliable structure to find some novel derivatives with better activity and lower potential for abuse and risk of dependency. This study was designed to evaluate psychobiological activity of some novel N-aryl modafinil derivatives.

Methods

Seven novel N-aryl modafinil derivatives were synthesized through three reactions: a) preparation of benzhydrylsulfanyl acetic acid through reaction of benzhydrol with thioglycolic acid, b) formation of desired amide by adding the substituted aniline to activated acid with EDC (1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethyl amino propyl) carbodiimide). This reaction was catalyzed by HOBt (N- hydroxylbenzotriazole), and c) oxidation of sulfur to sulfoxide group with H2O2. Then, their psychobiological effect on the performance of male albino mice were compared to that of modafinil as following: wakefulness by determining the effects of derivatives on phenobarbital-induced loss of the righting reflex (LOPR); exploratory activity by measuring activity in the open field test (OFT); depression by measuring immobility time (IT) during forced swimming test (FST) and the anxiogenic and anxiolytic like effects by using elevated plus-maze test (EPM). All tests were videotaped and analyzed for the frequency and duration of the behaviors during the procedures.

Conclusions

2-(Benzhydrylsulfonyl)-N-(4-chlorophenyl)acetamide (4c) showed comparable result in LOPR test. However, all analogs were found to be stimulant except 2-(benzhydrylsulfinyl)-N-phenylacetamide (4a). Also 4c led the most exploratory activity in mice among derivatives. FST results showed that 4a had the longest IT while modafinil, 2-(benzhydrylsulfinyl)-N-(3-chlorophenyl) acetamide (4b) and 2-(benzhydrylsulfinyl)-N-(4-ethylphenyl) acetamide (4d) had the shortest IT. In EPM, all derivatives showed anxiogenic-like behavior since they decreased open arms time and open arms entries and simultaneously increased close arms time.
Preparation, characterization and optimization of sildenafil citrate loaded PLGA nanoparticles by statistical factorial design
Authors: Ghasemian Elham , Vatanara Alireza , Rouholamini Najafabadi Abdolhossein , Rouini Mohammad Reza , Gilani Kambiz , Darabi Majid
Published: December 2013

Background and the aim of the study

The objective of the present study was to formulate and optimize nanoparticles (NPs) of sildenafil-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) by double emulsion solvent evaporation (DESE) method. The relationship between design factors and experimental data was evaluated using response surface methodology.

Method

A Box-Behnken design was made considering the mass ratio of drug to polymer (D/P), the volumetric proportion of the water to oil phase (W/O) and the concentration of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the independent agents. PLGA-NPs were successfully prepared and the size (nm), entrapment efficiency (EE), drug loading (DL) and cumulative release of drug from NPs post 1 and 8 hrs were assessed as the responses.

Results

The NPs were prepared in a spherical shape and the sizes range of 240 to 316 nm. The polydispersity index of size was lower than 0.5 and the EE (%) and DL (%) varied between 14-62% and 2-6%, respectively. The optimized formulation with a desirability factor of 0.9 was selected and characterized. This formulation demonstrated the particle size of 270 nm, EE of 55%, DL of 3.9% and cumulative drug release of 79% after 12 hrs. In vitro release studies showed a burst release at the initial stage followed by a sustained release of sildenafil from NPs up to 12 hrs. The release kinetic of the optimized formulation was fitted to Higuchi model.

Conclusions

Sildenafil citrate NPs with small particle size, lipophilic feature, high entrapment efficiency and good loading capacity is produced by this method. Characterization of optimum formulation, provided by an evaluation of experimental data, showed no significant difference between calculated and measured data.
Sex-related differences and age of peak performance in breaststroke versus freestyle swimming
Authors: Wolfrum Mathias , Knechtle Beat , Rüst Christoph Alexander , Rosemann Thomas , Lepers Romuald
Published: December 2013

Background

Sex-related differences in performance and in age of peak performance have been reported for freestyle swimming. However, little is known about the sex-related differences in other swimming styles. The aim of the present study was to compare performance and age of peak performance for elite men and women swimmers in breaststroke versus freestyle.

Methods

Race results were analyzed for swimmers at national ranked in the Swiss high score list (during 2006 through 2010) and for international swimmers who qualified for the finals of the FINA World Swimming Championships (during 2003 through 2011).

Results

The sex-related difference in swimming speed was significantly greater for freestyle than for breaststroke over 50 m, 100 m, and 200 m race distances for Swiss swimmers, but not for FINA finalists. The sex-related difference for both freestyle and breaststroke swimming speeds decreased significantly with increasing swimming distance for both groups. Race distance did not affect the age of peak performance by women in breaststroke, but age of peak performance was four years older for FINA women than for Swiss women. Men achieved peak swimming performance in breaststroke at younger ages for longer race distances, and the age of peak swimming performance was six years older for FINA men than for Swiss men. In freestyle swimming, race distance did not affect the age of peak swimming performance for Swiss women, but the age of peak swimming performance decreased with increasing race distance for Swiss men and for both sexes at the FINA World Championships.

Conclusions

Results of the present study indicate that (i) sex-related differences in swimming speed were greater for freestyle than for breaststroke for swimmers at national level, but not for swimmers at international level, and (ii) both female and male swimmers achieved peak swimming speeds at younger ages in breaststroke than in freestyle. Further studies are required to better understand differences between trends at national and international levels.
Acute microcirculatory effects of medium frequency versus high frequency neuromuscular electrical stimulation in critically ill patients - a pilot study
Authors: Angelopoulos Epameinondas , Karatzanos Eleftherios , Dimopoulos Stavros , Mitsiou Georgios , Stefanou Christos , Patsaki Irini , Kotanidou Anastasia , Routsi Christina , Petrikkos George , Nanas Serafeim
Published: December 2013

Background

Intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICUAW) is a common complication, associated with significant morbidity. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has shown promise for prevention. NMES acutely affects skeletal muscle microcirculation; such effects could mediate the favorable outcomes. However, optimal current characteristics have not been defined. This study aimed to compare the effects on muscle microcirculation of a single NMES session using medium and high frequency currents.

Methods

ICU patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) or sepsis of three to five days duration and patients with ICUAW were studied. A single 30-minute NMES session was applied to the lower limbs bilaterally using current of increasing intensity. Patients were randomly assigned to either the HF (75 Hz, pulse 400 μs, cycle 5 seconds on - 21 seconds off) or the MF (45 Hz, pulse 400 μs, cycle 5 seconds on - 12 seconds off) protocol. Peripheral microcirculation was monitored at the thenar eminence using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to obtain tissue O2 saturation (StO2); a vascular occlusion test was applied before and after the session. Local microcirculation of the vastus lateralis was also monitored using NIRS.

Results

Thirty-one patients were randomized. In the HF protocol (17 patients), peripheral microcirculatory parameters were: thenar O2 consumption rate (%/minute) from 8.6 ± 2.2 to 9.9 ± 5.1 (P = 0.08), endothelial reactivity (%/second) from 2.7 ± 1.4 to 3.2 ± 1.9 (P = 0.04), vascular reserve (seconds) from 160 ± 55 to 145 ± 49 (P = 0.03). In the MF protocol: thenar O2 consumption rate (%/minute) from 8.8 ± 3.8 to 9.9 ± 3.6 (P = 0.07), endothelial reactivity (%/second) from 2.5 ± 1.4 to 3.1 ± 1.7 (P = 0.03), vascular reserve (seconds) from 163 ± 37 to 144 ± 33 (P = 0.001). Both protocols showed a similar effect. In the vastus lateralis, average muscle O2 consumption rate was 61 ± 9%/minute during the HF protocol versus 69 ± 23%/minute during the MF protocol (P = 0.5). The minimum amplitude in StO2 was 5 ± 4 units with the HF protocol versus 7 ± 4 units with the MF protocol (P = 0.3). Post-exercise, StO2 increased by 6 ± 7 units with the HF protocol versus 5 ± 4 units with the MF protocol (P = 0.6). These changes correlated well with contraction strength.

Conclusions

A single NMES session affected local and systemic skeletal muscle microcirculation. Medium and high frequency currents were equally effective.
Cultivation-independent establishment of genetically engineered plants in natural populations: current evidence and implications for EU regulation
Authors: Bauer-Panskus Andreas , Breckling Broder , Hamberger Sylvia , Then Christoph
Published: December 2013

About 20 years after the market introduction of the first GM plants, we review whether or not uncontrolled spread occurred. We summarise cases documented in the scientific literature and derive conclusions for the regulation of the authorisation of new events. Several cases documented in North and Central America and Japan show that transgenes have spread beyond cultivation areas. Important examples are bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifer a), oilseed rape (Brassica napu s) and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). Several factors can be identified as relevant for transgene dispersal in the environment. Grasses (Poaceae), in particular, show a high potential for persistence and invasiveness, and wild relatives that can cross with the crop plants are a major factor in the unintended spread of the transgenes. There are significant uncertainties in predicting which transgenes will escape and how they will interact with the environment. For example, climate change is likely to have a major impact on the invasive potential of some plant species. The uncontrolled spread of transgenes is therefore a remaining challenge for regulators. We discuss some of these issues in the context of EU regulations since these regulations explicitly refer to the precautionary principle in the assessment of uncertainties. We found the that the precautionary principle as established in EU Directive 2001/18 can only be applied where efficient measures are available to remove genetically engineered organisms from the environment should this become necessary. If a removal from the environment would not be practically feasible, undesirable developments could not be mitigated.
Increased Scalp Hair Cortisol Concentrations in Obese Children
Authors: Veldhorst Margriet A. B. , Noppe Gerard , Jongejan Mieke H. T. M. , Kok Chantine B. M. , Mekic Selma , Koper Jan Willem , van Rossum Elisabeth F. C. , van den Akker Erica L. T.
Published: December 2013

Context:

Pathologically increased cortisol exposure induces obesity, but it is not known whether relatively high cortisol within the physiological range is related to childhood obesity.

Objective:

The aim of the study was to compare hair cortisol concentrations between obese and normal-weight children.

Design:

We performed an observational case-control study.

Participants:

Twenty obese children (body mass index-SD score [BMI-SDS] > 2.3) and 20 age- and sex-matched normal-weight children (BMI-SDS < 1.1) aged 8–12 years were recruited.

Main Outcome Measures:

Scalp hair samples from the posterior vertex were collected, and hair cortisol concentrations were measured using ELISA. Body weight, height, and waist circumference were measured. From the obese children, additional data on blood pressure and blood lipid concentrations were collected.

Results:

In both groups, five boys and 15 girls were included; their mean age was 10.8 ± 1.3 vs 10.8 ± 1.2 years (obese vs normal weight; not significant). Body weight, BMI, BMI-SDS, and waist circumference were higher in the obese children compared with the normal-weight children (69.8 ± 17.2 vs 35.5 ± 7.2 kg; 29.6 ± 4.9 vs 16.4 ± 1.6 kg/m2; 3.4 ± 0.5 vs −0.2 ± 0.8 SDS; 94 ± 13 vs 62 ± 6 cm; P < .001 all). Hair cortisol concentration was higher in obese than normal-weight children (median [interquartile range], 25 [17, 32] vs 17 [13, 21] pg/mg; P < .05).

Conclusions:

Hair cortisol concentration, a measure for long-term cortisol exposure, was higher in obese children than normal-weight children. This suggests long-term activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis in obese children and may provide a novel target for treatment of obesity in children.