bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atypical Stress-Avulsion Fracture of the Lisfranc Joint Complex
Authors: O’Neill Barry J. , Sweeney Laura A. , Moroney Paul J. , Mulhall Kevin J.
Published: February 2014

Antiphospholipid syndrome and systemic erythematosus have been associated with metatarsal stress fractures. Stress fractures of the Lisfranc joint complex are uncommon injuries but have been reported to occur most frequently in ballet dancers. We present a case of an avulsion fracture of the Lisfranc joint complex that occurred spontaneously. We have reviewed the association between systemic conditions and metatarsal fractures and proposed a series of hypothetical pathological events that may have contributed to this unusual injury.

Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case report
When the Love Hormone Leads to Violence
Authors: DeWall C. Nathan , Gillath Omri , Pressman Sarah D. , Black Lora L. , Bartz Jennifer A. , Moskovitz Jackob , Stetler Dean A.
Published: February 2014

Does oxytocin influence intimate partner violence (IPV)? Clues from prior research suggest that oxytocin increases prosocial behavior, but this effect is reversed among people with aggressive tendencies or in situations involving defensive aggression. Animal research also indicates that oxytocin plays a central role in defensive maternal aggression (i.e., protecting pups from intruders). Among highly aggressive people, a boost of oxytocin may cause them to use aggression toward close others as a means of maintaining their relationship. Adopting an interactionist approach, we predicted that oxytocin would increase IPV inclinations, but this effect would be limited to people high in trait physical aggression. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, between-subject experiment, participants varying in trait physical aggression received either 24 international unit of oxytocin or a placebo. Following two provocation tasks, participants rated the probability that they would engage in various aggressive behaviors (e.g., slapping, throwing an object that could hurt) toward a romantic partner. Oxytocin increased IPV inclinations, but this effect was limited to participants prone to physical aggression. These data offer the first evidence that IPV inclinations have a biological basis in a combination of oxytocin and trait physical aggressiveness.
Howling at the moon? The effect of lunar phases on post-surgical pain outcome
Authors: Komann Marcus , Weinmann Claudia , Meissner Winfried
Published: February 2014

Objective:

Many people are convinced that lunar phases influence their lives – despite the fact that a lot of studies have shown that this belief is wrong. In this article, we investigate the effect of lunar phases on acute post-surgical pain and on treatment-related side effects. We hypothesize that there is no influence.

Methods:

The data for the study were collected in 2010 and 2011 in 10 international hospitals participating in the research project PAIN OUT. Hospitalized patients were asked for their pain after surgery and pain treatment side effects using numerical ratings scales from 0 to 10. We applied Kurskal–Wallis H-tests to find out if the four moon phases show significant differences in 14 outcome variables. Afterwards, we adjusted for age, gender and three tracer surgeries.

Results:

A total of 12,224 patient data sets were assessed. For most variables and sub-groups, there is no lunar effect on the observed outcome variables. The only items that show statistically significant differences are pain interference with sleep ( p = 0.01) and drowsiness ( p = 0.01). The only sub-groups that show statistically significant connections to lunar phases in some variables are men (7 out of 14 variables significant) and elderly people (4 out of 14 variables significant).

Discussion:

Even in the statistically significant sub-groups, the differences are small and only show up in some variables. We conclude that lunar phases have no effect on post-surgical pain or its side effects. The hypothesis holds. Thus, there is no reason for patients to postpone surgeries or to fear surgeries on any given date.
Globalization and Landscape Architecture
Authors: Hewitt Robert R.
Published: February 2014

The literature review examines globalization and landscape architecture as discourse, samples its various meanings, and proposes methods to identify and contextualize its specific literature. Methodologically, the review surveys published articles and books by leading authors and within the WorldCat.org Database associated with landscape architecture and globalization, analyzing survey results for comprehensive conceptual and co-relational frameworks. Three “higher order” dimensions frame the review’s conceptual organization, facilitating the organization of subordinate/subtopical areas of interest useful for comparative analysis. Comparative analysis of the literature suggests an uneven clustering of discipline-related subject matter across the literature’s “higher order” dimensions, with a much smaller body of literature related to landscape architecture confined primarily to topics associated with the dispersion of global phenomena. A subcomponent of this smaller body of literature is associated with other fields of study, but inferentially related to landscape architecture. The review offers separate references and bibliographies for globalization literature in general and globalization and landscape architecture literature, specifically.
A Global Look at Time
Authors: Sircova Anna , van de Vijver Fons J. R. , Osin Evgeny , Milfont Taciano L. , Fieulaine Nicolas , Kislali-Erginbilgic Altinay , Zimbardo Philip G. ,   54 members of the International Time Perspective Research Project (presented in alphabetical order by country):, Djarallah Slimane , Chorfi Mohamed Seghir , Leite Umbelina do Rego , Lin Hui , Lv Houchao , Bunjevac Tomislav , Tomaš Tena , Punek Jasmina , Vrlec Anica , Matić Jelena , Bokulić Marko , Klicperová-Baker Martina , Koštʹ ál Jaroslav , Seema Riin , Baltin Arno , Apostolidis Themistoklis , Pediaditakis Daphne , Griva Fay , Anagnostopoulos Fotios , Carmi Nurit , Goroshit Marina , Peri Martina , Shimojima Yumi , Sato Koichi , Ochi Keita , Kairys Antanas , Liniauskaite Audrone , Corral-Verdugo Víctor , Przepiorka Aneta , Blachnio Agata , Ortuño Victor E. C. , Gamboa Vítor , Mitina Olga , Semyenova Nadezhda , Gerasimova Valentina , Rawski (Nepryakho) Tatiana , Kuleshova Ekaterina , Polskaya Natalia , Tulinov Nikolaj , Romanko Isabella , Semina Yulia , Nikitina Ekaterina , Yasnaya Vera , Davydova Irina , Utyasheva Elsa , Emeliyanova Irina , Ershova Regina , Nedeljkovic Jasmina , Morales Juan Francisco Díaz , Carelli Maria Grazia , Wiberg Britt , Boniwell Ilona , Linley P. Alex , Boyd John Nathan
Published: February 2014

In this article, we assess the structural equivalence of the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI) across 26 samples from 24 countries ( N = 12,200). The ZTPI is proven to be a valid and reliable index of individual differences in time perspective across five temporal categories: Past Negative, Past Positive, Present Fatalistic, Present Hedonistic, and Future. We obtained evidence for invariance of 36 items (out of 56) and also the five-factor structure of ZTPI across 23 countries. The short ZTPI scales are reliable for country-level analysis, whereas we recommend the use of the full scales for individual-level analysis. The short version of ZTPI will further promote integration of research in the time perspective domain in relation to many different psycho-social processes.
Assessing the Effectiveness of International Environmental Agreements (IEAs)
Authors: Seelarbokus Chenaz B.
Published: February 2014

It is commonly claimed that assessing the effectiveness of International Environmental Agreements (IEAs) from the environmental problem-solving perspective is challenging because environmental data are not available. However, not much research has been done on the characterization of the nature and causes of such data unavailability. This article analyzes the term “data unavailability” and provides three typologies for data unavailability: (a) “true unavailability,” where data collection complexities and resource constraints limit data collection and analysis; (b) “false unavailability,” which refers to the existence of relevant data, but failure to report due to various causes; and (c) “external availability,” which refers to the existence of relevant data in several organizations and research institutions, but with no established networks for data sharing between such institutions and the IEA institutions. This article discusses the causes for the various types of data unavailability and makes recommendations for promoting data availability.
The Nature of Crime by School Resource Officers
Authors: Stinson Philip Matthew , Watkins Adam M.
Published: February 2014

School resource officers (SROs) have become a permanent presence in many K-12 schools throughout the country. As a result, an emerging body of research has focused on SROs, particularly on how SROs are viewed by students, teachers, and the general public. This exploratory and descriptive research uses a different focus by examining the nature of crimes for which SROs were arrested in recent years with information gathered from online news sources. The current findings are encouraging insofar as they reveal that SROs are rarely arrested for criminal misconduct. When SROs were arrested, however, they are most often arrested for a sex-related offense involving a female adolescent. These sex-related incidents generally occurred away from school property or during nonschool hours and rarely involved the use of physical force. The implications of these findings for SRO programs are discussed.
Effective Multicultural Instruction
Authors: Thompson Franklin T.
Published: February 2014

The reason why the Trayvon Martin murder trial and similar court cases create a philosophical rift in our nation is due in part to flaws in the delivery of multicultural education. Traditional multicultural instruction does not prepare citizens for the subtleties and complexities of race relations. This study investigates critical strategies and practices that address multicultural missing gaps. I also seek to fill a void in the literature created by a lack of student input regarding teaching strategies that encourage lifelong learning. Students ( N = 337) enrolled at a Midwestern university were asked to rate the efficacy of selected instructional strategies. Utilizing a 9-point Likert-type scale, students gave themselves a personal growth rating of 7.15 ( SD = 1.47). Variables important to predicting that growth ( R2 = .56, p < .0005) were a six-factor variable known as a non-color-blind instructional approach ( t = 10.509, p ≤ .0005), allowing students an opportunity to form their own opinions apart from the instructor ( t = 4.797, p ≤ .0005), and a state law that mandated multicultural training ( t = 3.234, p = .001). Results demonstrated that utilizing a 35% traditional and 65% critical pedagogy mixture when teaching multicultural education helped promote win/win scenarios for education candidates hoping to become difference makers.
The Leadership Dimension in Information and Communication Technology Adoption in African Libraries
Authors: Oyelude Adetoun A. , Oladele Benedict A.
Published: February 2014

The article focuses on leadership challenges in adaptation to Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in African libraries. It identifies and discusses the need for adequate leadership styles and behavior in the bid to adapt effectively to new technologies. Online survey, observation arising from personal professional practice experience, personal communication, and interview methods were used to gather data for the study. Older library professionals, many of whom are still very visible across the leadership strata of libraries, were found to exhibit diverse attitude to the adaptation to ICTs deployment and use in their libraries. Some library leaders and older generation professionals were discovered to react somewhat negatively to changes in technology used in their libraries, preventing the younger professionals from performing to full capacity, and generally showing nonchalance to new technologies. Proper training and retraining, mentoring, and harnessing the synergy of ideas, with respectful communication from new generation library professionals, was found to be desirable. Change management workshops and implementation of standard ethics of the profession are recommended, while emphasis is put on the need for library professionals to overcome their technophobia and take leadership in adapting to move the library and information profession forward.
Qualitative Content Analysis
Authors: Elo Satu , Kääriäinen Maria , Kanste Outi , Pölkki Tarja , Utriainen Kati , Kyngäs Helvi
Published: February 2014

Qualitative content analysis is commonly used for analyzing qualitative data. However, few articles have examined the trustworthiness of its use in nursing science studies. The trustworthiness of qualitative content analysis is often presented by using terms such as credibility, dependability, conformability, transferability, and authenticity. This article focuses on trustworthiness based on a review of previous studies, our own experiences, and methodological textbooks. Trustworthiness was described for the main qualitative content analysis phases from data collection to reporting of the results. We concluded that it is important to scrutinize the trustworthiness of every phase of the analysis process, including the preparation, organization, and reporting of results. Together, these phases should give a reader a clear indication of the overall trustworthiness of the study. Based on our findings, we compiled a checklist for researchers attempting to improve the trustworthiness of a content analysis study. The discussion in this article helps to clarify how content analysis should be reported in a valid and understandable manner, which would be of particular benefit to reviewers of scientific articles. Furthermore, we discuss that it is often difficult to evaluate the trustworthiness of qualitative content analysis studies because of defective data collection method description and/or analysis description.
Same Traits, Different Variance
Authors: Churchyard Jamie S. , Pine Karen J. , Sharma Shivani , Fletcher Ben (C)
Published: February 2014

Personality trait questionnaires are regularly used in individual differences research to examine personality scores between participants, although trait researchers tend to place little value on intra-individual variation in item ratings within a measured trait. The few studies that examine variability indices have not considered how they are related to a selection of psychological outcomes, so we recruited 160 participants (age M = 24.16, SD = 9.54) who completed the IPIP-HEXACO personality questionnaire and several outcome measures. Heterogenous within-subject differences in item ratings were found for every trait/facet measured, with measurement error that remained stable across the questionnaire. Within-subject standard deviations, calculated as measures of individual variation in specific item ratings within a trait/facet, were related to outcomes including life satisfaction and depression. This suggests these indices represent valid constructs of variability, and that researchers administering behavior statement trait questionnaires with outcome measures should also apply item-level variability indices.
A Novel Therapeutic Frame for Treating Depression in Group Treating Depression Downhill
Authors: Krupnik Valery
Published: February 2014

We describe an original protocol Treating Depression Downhill (TDD) that was designed as a specific therapy for depression. Evolutionary theories of depression served as a basis for its development. We discuss the rationale for using evolutionary theory and describe the structure and integrative nature of TDD. We then present an observation on TDD’s application to group therapy of active duty military personnel. In the described sample, TDD demonstrated effectiveness and specificity for depression, differentiating it from anxiety and personality disorders.
Actions Against Poverty
Authors: Rabren Karen , Carpenter Jonathan , Dunn Caroline , Carney Jamie S.
Published: February 2014

There is clear and convincing evidence that students with disabilities living in poverty are facing the double jeopardy of dealing with issues associated with their disability, as well as the challenges of living in minimal conditions. Improving outcomes for this population requires the identification and implementation of effective programs. This study analyzed program factors and post-school outcomes of 500 former students with disabilities to determine to what extent predictions regarding employment for these students can be determined. Findings suggest that in high-relative poverty areas, participation in career technical education is associated with higher rates of employment during and after high school.
Learning Among Critical Friends in the Instrumental Setting
Authors: Ferm Thorgersen Cecilia
Published: February 2014

The article is based on a phenomenological way of thinking about knowledge and learning and will treat the concepts of response and critical friends as ways of sharing experience in higher music education. The problem area I want to illuminate is how teachers, who educate musicians, can use and facilitate development of their students’ skills and abilities, when it comes to encouraging each other toward educational goals. The structure of the article is divided into three themes: the first theme concerns the one-to-one teaching tradition of higher music education; the second one will communicate a definition of what critical friendship is, together with some examples of how critical friendship has been used in musician education; and the third part will focus on the changing role of the teacher as well as suggest some implications for best collaborative and response-based practices.
ADAP interactions with talin and kindlin promote platelet integrin αIIbβ3 activation and stable fibrinogen binding
Authors: Kasirer-Friede Ana , Kang Jian , Kahner Bryan , Ye Feng , Ginsberg Mark H. , Shattil Sanford J.
Published: February 2014

Key Points

ADAP interacts with talin and kindlin-3 in platelets. ADAP is a hematopoietic component of the molecular machinery that promotes activation of and stable fibrinogen binding to αIIbβ3.
A phase 1 clinical trial of long-term, low-dose treatment of WHIM syndrome with the CXCR4 antagonist plerixafor
Authors: McDermott David H. , Liu Qian , Velez Daniel , Lopez Lizbeeth , Anaya-O’Brien Sandra , Ulrick Jean , Kwatemaa Nana , Starling Judy , Fleisher Thomas A. , Priel Debra A. Long , Merideth Melissa A. , Giuntoli Robert L. , Evbuomwan Moses O. , Littel Patricia , Marquesen Martha M. , Hilligoss Dianne , DeCastro Rosamma , Grimes George J. , Hwang Samuel T. , Pittaluga Stefania , Calvo Katherine R. , Stratton Pamela , Cowen Edward W. , Kuhns Douglas B. , Malech Harry L. , Murphy Philip M.
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Plerixafor can be given safely to WHIM syndrome patients twice daily for a 6-month period and appears promising as a treatment.
Novel FV mutation (W1920R, FVNara) associated with serious deep vein thrombosis and more potent APC resistance relative to FVLeiden
Authors: Nogami Keiji , Shinozawa Keiko , Ogiwara Kenichi , Matsumoto Tomoko , Amano Kagehiro , Fukutake Katsuyuki , Shima Midori
Published: February 2014

Key Points

FVNara (W1920R), associated with serious deep vein thrombosis, is more resistant to APC relative to FVLeiden (R506Q). This mechanism results from significant decreases in FVa susceptibility to APC and FV cofactor activity for APC.
Cooperativity of RUNX1 and CSF3R mutations in severe congenital neutropenia: a unique pathway in myeloid leukemogenesis
Authors: Skokowa Julia , Steinemann Doris , Katsman-Kuipers Jenny E. , Zeidler Cornelia , Klimenkova Olga , Klimiankou Maksim , Ünalan Murat , Kandabarau Siarhei , Makaryan Vahagn , Beekman Renee , Behrens Kira , Stocking Carol , Obenauer Julia , Schnittger Susanne , Kohlmann Alexander , Valkhof Marijke G. , Hoogenboezem Remco , Göhring Gudrun , Reinhardt Dirk , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Stanulla Martin , Vandenberghe Peter , Donadieu Jean , Zwaan C. Michel , Touw Ivo P. , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M. , Dale David C. , Welte Karl
Published: February 2014

Key Points

CN/AML patients have a high frequency of CSF3R and RUNX1 mutations. CSF3R and RUNX1 mutations induce elevated proliferation of CD34+ cells.
Bendamustine: the remedy that came in from the cold
Authors: Lentzsch Suzanne
Published: February 2014

In this issue of Blood, Ludwig and colleagues present the data of a phase 2 clinical trial showing that bendamustine, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (BBD) is a very active and well-tolerated regimen in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.1 More importantly, BBD overcomes the adverse prognosis in patients with high-risk cytogenetics.
NOX-A12: mobilizing CLL away from home
Authors: Marasca Roberto , Maffei Rossana
Published: February 2014

In this issue of Blood, Hoellenriegel et al provide evidence that NOX-A12, an RNA oligonucleotide able to bind and neutralize CXCL12, effectively interferes with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cell chemotaxis and stroma-mediated drug-resistance.1
Human platelet microRNA-mRNA networks associated with age and gender revealed by integrated plateletomics
Authors: Simon Lukas M. , Edelstein Leonard C. , Nagalla Srikanth , Woodley Angela B. , Chen Edward S. , Kong Xianguo , Ma Lin , Fortina Paolo , Kunapuli Satya , Holinstat Michael , McKenzie Steven E. , Dong Jing-fei , Shaw Chad A. , Bray Paul F.
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Unique dataset of human platelet mRNA, miRNA, and physiology reveals mRNAs and miRNAs that differ by age and gender. Interactive public web tool (www.plateletomics.com) provides biologic insights into platelet function and gene expression.
Uncovering the hideout of malaria sexual parasites
Authors: Lavazec Catherine , Alano Pietro
Published: February 2014

In this issue of Blood, Aguilar and colleagues1 present the result of a timely and much-needed investigation aimed to unveil the hidden sites of maturation of Plasmodium falciparum transmission stages in human malaria infections.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Minimally thin sets associated with the stationary Schrödinger operator
Authors: Zhao Tao
Published: February 2014

This paper gives some new criteria for a-minimally thin sets at infinity with respect to the Schrödinger operator in a cone, which supplement the results obtained by Long-Gao-Deng.

MSC:31B05, 31B10.
The CtrA phosphorelay integrates differentiation and communication in the marine alphaproteobacterium Dinoroseobacter shibae
Authors: Wang Hui , Ziesche Lisa , Frank Oliver , Michael Victoria , Martin Madeleine , Petersen Jörn , Schulz Stefan , Wagner-Döbler Irene , Tomasch Jürgen
Published: February 2014

Background

Dinoroseobacter shibae,a member of theRoseobacterclade abundant in marine environments, maintains morphological heterogeneity throughout growth, with small cells dividing by binary fission and large cells dividing by budding from one or both cell poles. This morphological heterogeneity is lost if the quorum sensing (QS) system is silenced, concurrent with a decreased expression of the CtrA phosphorelay, a regulatory system conserved inAlphaproteobacteriaand the master regulator of theCaulobacter crescentuscell cycle. It consists of the sensor histidine kinase CckA, the phosphotransferase ChpT and the transcriptional regulator CtrA. Here we tested if the QS induced differentiation ofD. shibaeis mediated by the CtrA phosphorelay.

Results

Mutants forctrA,chpTandcckAshowed almost homogeneous cell morphology and divided by binary fission. ForctrAandchpT, expression intranson a plasmid caused the fraction of cells containing more than two chromosome equivalents to increase above wild-type level, indicating that gene copy number directly controls chromosome number. Transcriptome analysis revealed that CtrA is a master regulator for flagellar biosynthesis and has a great influence on the transition to stationary phase. Interestingly, the expression of the autoinducer synthase genesluxI2andluxI3was strongly reduced in all three mutants, resulting in loss of biosynthesis of acylated homoserine-lactones with C14 side-chain, but could be restored by expressing these genes intrans. Several phylogenetic clusters ofAlphaproteobacteriarevealed a CtrA binding site in the promoters of QS genes, includingRoseobactersandRhizobia.

Conclusions

The CtrA phosphorelay induces differentiation of a marineRoseobacterstrain that is strikingly different from that ofC. crescentus. Instead of a tightly regulated cell cycle and a switch between two morphotypes, the morphology and cell division ofDinoroseobacter shibaeare highly heterogeneous. We discovered for the first time that the CtrA phosphorelay controls the biosynthesis of signaling molecules. Thus cell-cell communication and differentiation are interlinked in this organism. This may be a common strategy, since we found a similar genetic set-up in other species in the ecologically relevant group ofAlphaproteobacteria. D. shibaewill be a valuable model organism to study bacterial differentiation into pleomorphic cells.
Somatostatin and its 2A Receptor in Dorsal Root Ganglia and Dorsal Horn of Mouse and Human: Expression, Trafficking and Possible Role in Pain
Authors: Shi Tie-Jun Sten , Xiang Qiong , Zhang Ming-Dong , Barde Swapnali , Kai-Larsen Ylva , Fried Kaj , Josephson Anna , Glück Laura , Deyev Sergey M , Zvyagin Andrei V , Schulz Stefan , Hökfelt Tomas
Published: February 2014

Background:

Somatostatin (SST) and some of its receptor subtypes have been implicated in pain signaling at the spinal level. In this study we have investigated the role of SST and its sst2A receptor (sst2A) in dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) and spinal cord.

Results:

SST and sst2A protein and sst2 transcript were found in both mouse and human DRGs, sst2A-immunoreactive (IR) cell bodies and processes in lamina II in mouse and human spinal dorsal horn, and sst2A-IR nerve terminals in mouse skin. The receptor protein was associated with the cell membrane. Following peripheral nerve injury sst2A-like immunoreactivity (LI) was decreased, and SST-LI increased in DRGs. sst2A-LI accumulated on the proximal and, more strongly, on the distal side of a sciatic nerve ligation. Fluorescence-labeled SST administered to a hind paw was internalized and retrogradely transported, indicating that a SST-sst2A complex may represent a retrograde signal. Internalization of sst2A was seen in DRG neurons after systemic treatment with the sst2 agonist octreotide (Oct), and in dorsal horn and DRG neurons after intrathecal administration. Some DRG neurons co-expressed sst2A and the neuropeptide Y Y1 receptor on the cell membrane, and systemic Oct caused co-internalization, hypothetically a sign of receptor heterodimerization. Oct treatment attenuated the reduction of pain threshold in a neuropathic pain model, in parallel suppressing the activation of p38 MAPK in the DRGs

Conclusions:

The findings highlight a significant and complex role of the SST system in pain signaling. The fact that the sst2A system is found also in human DRGs and spinal cord, suggests that sst2A may represent a potential pharmacologic target for treatment of neuropathic pain.
Chemical composition and Biological studies of Ficus benjamina
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Rasool Nasir , Rizwan Komal , Zubair Muhammad , Riaz Muhammad , Zia-Ul-Haq Muhammad , Rana Usman Ali , Nafady Ayman , Jaafar Hawa ZE
Published: February 2014

Background

Current study has been designed to estimate the possible antioxidant, antimicrobial and hemolytic potential of Ficus benjamina different parts (leaves, stem and root).

Results

All examined extracts and fractions were significantly rich in antioxidants and exhibited potent antimicrobial activity. GC/MS analysis of essential oil identified four compounds in stem and eight compounds in root, respectively. HPLC analysis indicated four phenolic compounds (chlorogenic, p-coumaric, ferulic and syringic acids) in roots, three (chlorogenic p-coumaric and ferulic acids) in stem and only one (caffeic acid) in leaves. Extracts of all three parts of F. benjamina exhibited substantial hemolytic activity.

Conclusions

Considering these results, it is concluded that F. benjamina can be used as a potential source for the exploration of new antioxidant compounds and antimicrobial agents.
Foot kinematics in walking on a level surface and on stairs in patients with hallux rigidus before and after cheilectomy
Authors: Kuni Benita , Wolf Sebastian Immanuel , Zeifang Felix , Thomsen Marc
Published: February 2014

Background

Walking down stairs is a clinically relevant daily activity for older persons. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the impact of cheilectomy on walking on level ground and on stairs.

Methods

3D motion analysis of foot kinematics was performed in eight patients with hallux rigidus and 11 healthy control participants with a 12‐camera system, using the Heidelberg foot measurement method before and one year after surgery. The clinical results were documented using the AOFAS Scale.

Results

The range of motion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint did not improve after the operation under any gait condition. Preoperatively, hallux dorsi‐/plantarflexion in level walking was 11.9° lower in patients than in controls (p = 0.006), postoperatively 14.5° lower (p = 0.004). Comparing walking conditions in patients, hallux dorsi‐/plantarflexion was significantly higher in level walking than in climbing stairs (difference up stairs – level: ‐8.1°, p = 0.018).

The AOFAS Scale improved significantly from 56.9 ± 19.9 points (mean ± SD), preoperatively, to 75.9 ± 13.9 points, postoperatively (p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Cheilectomy is appropriate for reducing symptoms of hallux rigidus. However, neither a positive influence on the range of motion in walking on level ground and on stairs nor a functional improvement was observed in this group of patients.

Trial registration

NCT01804491
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, but not body weight, correlated with a reduction in depression scale scores in men with metabolic syndrome: a prospective weight-reduction study
Authors: Lee I-Te , Fu Chia-Po , Lee Wen-Jane , Liang Kae-Woei , Lin Shih-Yi , Wan Chu-Jen , Sheu Wayne Huey-Herng
Published: February 2014

Background

Obesity, a critical component of metabolic syndrome (MetS), is associated with depression. Deficiency of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in the mechanism of depression. We hypothesized that weight reduction would improve depressive symptoms via increasing BDNF levels in obese men.

Methods

Male adults with obesity were enrolled in a weight-reduction program for twelve weeks. All subjects underwent daily caloric restriction and an exercise program which was regularly assessed in group classes. Fasting blood samples and Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (Zung SDS) scores were collected for assessments before and after the study.

Results

A total of 36 subjects completed this program. The average reduction in body weight was 8.4 ± 5.1 kg (8.8 ± 5.1%, P < 0.001). Fasting serum BDNF significantly increased after the study (from 40.4 ± 7.8 to 46.9 ± 8.9 ng/ml, P < 0.001). However, the depression symptoms, as assessed by the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (Zung SDS), did not reduce significantly (P = 0.486). Divided into subgroups based on changes in BDNF, Zung SDS scores were significantly reduced in subjects with greater BDNF increase than in those with minor BDNF change (-3.9 ± 6.2 vs. 2.3 ± 6.7, P = 0.009). The increased percentage of BDNF was inversely correlated with the change in Zung SDS (r = -0.380, P = 0.022). Multivariate regression analysis showed that reduction in BDNF was independently associated with change in Zung SDS (95% confidence interval -0.315 to -0.052, P = 0.008).

Conclusion

Zung SDS only significantly improved in men with increased fasting BDNF levels after a lifestyle intervention.

Trial registration

(NCT01065753,ClinicalTrials.gov)
Will women soon outperform men in open-water ultra-distance swimming in the ‘Maratona del Golfo Capri-Napoli’?
Authors: Rüst Christoph Alexander , Lepers Romuald , Rosemann Thomas , Knechtle Beat
Published: February 2014

This study investigated the change in sex differences across years in ultra-distance swimming performances at the 36-km ‘Maratona del Golfo Capri-Napoli’ race held from 1954 to 2013. Changes in swimming performance of 662 men and 228 women over the 59-year period were investigated using linear, non-linear and hierarchical regression analyses. Race times of the annual fastest swimmers decreased linearly for women from 731 min to 391 min (r

2
 = 0.60, p < 0.0001) and for men from 600 min to 373 min (r

2
 = 0.30, p < 0.0001). Race times of the annual top three swimmers decreased linearly between 1963 and 2013 for women from 736.8 ± 78.4 min to 396.6 ± 4.5 min (r

2
 = 0.58, p < 0.0001) and for men from 627.1 ± 34.5 min to 374.1 ± 0.3 min (r

2
 = 0.42, p < 0.0001). The sex difference in performance for the annual fastest decreased linearly from 39.2% (1955) to 4.7% (2013) (r

2
 = 0.33, p < 0.0001). For the annual three fastest competitors, the sex difference in performance decreased linearly from 38.2 ± 14.0% (1963) to 6.0 ± 1.0% (2013) (r

2
 = 0.43, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, ultra-distance swimmers improved their performance at the ‘Maratona del Golfo Capri-Napoli’ over the last ~60 years and the fastest women reduced the gap with the fastest men linearly from ~40% to ~5-6%. The linear change in both race times and sex differences may suggest that women will be able to achieve men’s performance or even to outperform men in the near future in an open-water ultra-distance swimming event such as the ‘Maratona del Golfo Capri-Napoli’.
Nanoleakage in indirect composite restorations using different combinations of resin coating technique
Authors: Medina Alberth David Correa , de Paula Andréia Bolzan , Naufel Fabiana Scarparo , Puppin-rontani Regina Maria , Correr-Sobrinho Lourenço , Sinhoreti Mário Alexandre Coelho
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the nanoleakage patterns in indirect composite restorations bonding to dentin using different combinations of Resin Coating, after thermal and load cycling. Twenty five extracted third molars were used in the study; two box-like Class II cavities were prepared in each tooth (mesial and distal surface). The 50 cavities were distributed in 5 groups according to the RC materials combinations: G1: Etch-rinse 2 steps/Hydrophobic monomer; G2: Etch-rinse 2steps/Flow composite-resin, G3: Self-etch 1step, G4: Self-etch1step/Flowable composite resin liner, G5: Self-etch 2step/Flowable composite-resin liner. The cavities were molded with a vinyl polysiloxane impression material and the molds were poured with stone plaster. The fillings were confectioned using the Sinfony composite system (3 M/ESPE) and cemented with resin luting cement (Rely X ARC). After 24 hours, the teeth were submitted to thermocycling (2000 cycles, 5° to 55°C) and load cycling (250,000 cycles, 30 N). Past 24hours, the restored teeth were sectioned into serial slabs and immersed in 50% ammoniacal silver nitrate for 24 h, exposed to photo-developing solution for 8 h, carbon coated and observed in SEM using backscattered electron mode. Diverse nanoleakage patterns were observed for the different RC combinations. Silver accumulation were observed in the entire thickness of the hybrid layer in G1 and G2 groups, while in the “all in one” self-etch groups (G3 and G4) silver accumulations similar to “water trees” within the adhesive layer were observed. In G5 group, less nanoleakage than other groups was observed and it was limited to the hybrid layer. The group G5 presented a superior behavior and revealed less nanoleakage compared to the other groups.
Relative Value Health Insurance
Authors: Korobkin Russell
Published: February 2014

Increases in health costs continue to outpace general inflation, and implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will exacerbate the problem by adding more Americans to the ranks of the insured. The most commonly proposed solutions — bureaucratic controls, greater patient cost sharing, and changes to physician incentives — all have substantial weaknesses. This article proposes a new paradigm for rationalizing health care expenditures called “relative value health insurance,” a product that would enable consumers to purchase health insurance that covers cost-effective treatments but excludes cost-ineffective treatments. A combination of legal and informational impediments prevents private insurers from marketing this type of product today, but creative use of comparative effectiveness research, funded as a part of health care reform, could make relative value health insurance possible. Data deficits, adverse selection risks, and heterogeneous values among consumers create obstacles to shifting the health insurance system to this paradigm, but they could be overcome.
Ccbe1 regulates Vegfc-mediated induction of Vegfr3 signaling during embryonic lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Le Guen Ludovic , Karpanen Terhi , Schulte Dörte , Harris Nicole C. , Koltowska Katarzyna , Roukens Guy , Bower Neil I. , van Impel Andreas , Stacker Steven A. , Achen Marc G. , Schulte-Merker Stefan , Hogan Benjamin M.
Published: February 2014

The VEGFC/VEGFR3 signaling pathway is essential for lymphangiogenesis (the formation of lymphatic vessels from pre-existing vasculature) during embryonic development, tissue regeneration and tumor progression. The recently identified secreted protein CCBE1 is indispensible for lymphangiogenesis during development. The role of CCBE1 orthologs is highly conserved in zebrafish, mice and humans with mutations in CCBE1 causing generalized lymphatic dysplasia and lymphedema (Hennekam syndrome). To date, the mechanism by which CCBE1 acts remains unknown. Here, we find that ccbe1 genetically interacts with both vegfc and vegfr3 in zebrafish. In the embryo, phenotypes driven by increased Vegfc are suppressed in the absence of Ccbe1, and Vegfc-driven sprouting is enhanced by local Ccbe1 overexpression. Moreover, Vegfc- and Vegfr3-dependent Erk signaling is impaired in the absence of Ccbe1. Finally, CCBE1 is capable of upregulating the levels of fully processed, mature VEGFC in vitro and the overexpression of mature VEGFC rescues ccbe1 loss-of-function phenotypes in zebrafish. Taken together, these data identify Ccbe1 as a crucial component of the Vegfc/Vegfr3 pathway in the embryo.
Planarian yorkie/YAP functions to integrate adult stem cell proliferation, organ homeostasis and maintenance of axial patterning
Authors: Lin Alexander Y. T. , Pearson Bret J.
Published: February 2014

During adult homeostasis and regeneration, the freshwater planarian must accomplish a constant balance between cell proliferation and cell death, while also maintaining proper tissue and organ size and patterning. How these ordered processes are precisely modulated remains relatively unknown. Here we show that planarians use the downstream effector of the Hippo signaling cascade, yorkie (yki; YAP in vertebrates) to control a diverse set of pleiotropic processes in organ homeostasis, stem cell regulation, regeneration and axial patterning. We show that yki functions to maintain the homeostasis of the planarian excretory (protonephridial) system and to limit stem cell proliferation, but does not affect the differentiation process or cell death. Finally, we show that Yki acts synergistically with WNT/β-catenin signaling to repress head determination by limiting the expression domains of posterior WNT genes and that of the WNT-inhibitor notum. Together, our data show that yki is a key gene in planarians that integrates stem cell proliferation control, organ homeostasis, and the spatial patterning of tissues.
Dysregulated interactions between lamin A and SUN1 induce abnormalities in the nuclear envelope and endoplasmic reticulum in progeric laminopathies
Authors: Chen Zi-Jie , Wang Wan-Ping , Chen Yu-Ching , Wang Jing-Ya , Lin Wen-Hsin , Tai Lin-Ai , Liou Gan-Guang , Yang Chung-Shi , Chi Ya-Hui
Published: February 2014

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a human progeroid disease caused by a point mutation on the LMNA gene. We reported previously that the accumulation of the nuclear envelope protein SUN1 contributes to HGPS nuclear aberrancies. However, the mechanism by which interactions between mutant lamin A (also known as progerin or LAΔ50) and SUN1 produce HGPS cellular phenotypes requires further elucidation. Using light and electron microscopy, this study demonstrated that SUN1 contributes to progerin-elicited structural changes in the nuclear envelope and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) network. We further identified two domains through which full-length lamin A associates with SUN1, and determined that the farnesylated cysteine within the CaaX motif of lamin A has a stronger affinity for SUN1 than does the lamin A region containing amino acids 607 to 656. Farnesylation of progerin enhanced its interaction with SUN1 and reduced SUN1 mobility, thereby promoting the aberrant recruitment of progerin to the ER membrane during postmitotic assembly of the nuclear envelope, resulting in the accumulation of SUN1 over consecutive cellular divisions. These results indicate that the dysregulated interaction of SUN1 and progerin in the ER during nuclear envelope reformation determines the progression of HGPS.
Fast axonal transport of the proteasome complex depends on membrane interaction and molecular motor function
Authors: Otero Maria G. , Alloatti Matías , Cromberg Lucas E. , Almenar-Queralt Angels , Encalada Sandra E. , Pozo Devoto Victorio M. , Bruno Luciana , Goldstein Lawrence S. B. , Falzone Tomás L.
Published: February 2014

Protein degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome system in neurons depends on the correct delivery of the proteasome complex. In neurodegenerative diseases, protein aggregation and accumulation in axons link transport defects with degradation impairments; however, the transport properties of proteasomes remain unknown. Here, using in vivo experiments we revealed the fast anterograde transport of assembled and functional 26S proteasome complex. A high-resolution tracking system of fluorescent proteasomes exposed three motion regimes: actively driven proteasome axonal transport, diffusive behavior in a viscoelastic axonema and proteasome confined motion. We showed that active proteasome transport depends on motor function since reducing KIF5B motor subunit, resulted in impairments of the anterograde proteasome flux and the density of segmental velocities. Finally, we revealed that neuronal proteasomes interact with intracellular membranes and identify the coordinated transport of fluorescent proteasomes with synaptic precursor vesicles, Golgi-derived vesicles, lysosomes and mitochondria. All together, our results uncover the fast axonal transport as a new mechanism of proteasome delivery that depends on membrane cargo hitch-hiking and molecular motor function. We further hypothesize that defects in proteasome transport could trigger abnormal protein clearance in neurodegenerative diseases.
Theoretical Investigation on the Electronic Transport Properties of Iron(II) Porphyrin for CO Sensing with Single-walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: He Yuanyuan , Zhang Jinjiang , Zhao Jianwei
Published: February 2014

We studied the electronic transport properties of a new type of iron(II) porphyrin (PP-Fe) chemosensor for CO with two single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) electrodes, using the first-principle density functional theory. Owing to the fact that electron does not pass through the Fe center when the CO molecule is absorbed to PP-Fe, leading to a considerable difference between the I–V curves of PP-Fe before and after CO absorption, it has great potential for application as a chemical sensor for CO.
Great uncertainty regarding treatment of varicose vein recurrence
Authors: Nelzén O.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Although varicose vein recurrence is common and 10–30 % of all varicose vein surgery is done for recurrence of some sort, there are very few studies that can guide us to the best re-treatment option. With the introduction of minimal invasive endovenous treatments there is a variety of possible options besides traditional open surgical techniques.

Method: The Scandinavian Venous Forum held a symposium at the GSP meeting in Lü-beck 2012 and this review article is based on data from the presentations at that symposium. Further data has been added regarding new knowledge that was not available a year ago, from PubMed search and article references.

Results: The most common reasons for recurrence are discussed and also the discrepancy between neovascularization (NV) and recurrence due to technical failures. It is likely that NV is the most commonly duplex detected type of recurrence following open groin surgery, less common early after endovascular techniques. However, technical or tactical failures are the most common reasons for redo surgery because of symptomatic recurrence. NV seldom leads to symptomatic recurrences and thus a need for re- treatment. There is a risk that the stumps left following endovenous treatments will become a source for symptomatic recurrence after 5–10 years and indications of that have been reported in the few available 5 year RCT-reports following laser treatments. Treatment of recurrence due to stumps in the groin can be done safely within a reasonable operating time through a medial approach and the stump itself can generally not be treated with any of the endovenous alternative methods. Foam treatment can be used for most other recurrent veins but the durability is unknown. Endovascular thermal ablation can only be used for reopened or remaining saphenous veins and accessory saphenous veins while tributaries have to be treated by stab excisions or foam.

Conclusion: Long term reports of results of redo surgery are limited but suggest reasonably good results from open surgical intervention and are non-existent for the endovenous techniques. So far groin recurrence seems best treated surgically by an indirect approach, preferably medial. More studies are needed to find the best treatment regime for varicose vein recurrence in general and hybrid procedures might be the way forward by combinations of different techniques.
Bispectral index detects intraoperative cerebral ischaemia during balloon assisted cerebral aneurysm coiling
Authors: Harclerode Zoe , Andrzejowski John , Coley Stuart , Dyde Richard
Published: February 2014

Bispectral index (BIS) is a monitoring modality designed and used for monitoring depth of anaesthesia. We wish to report a case where BIS monitoring may have alerted us to a potential adverse neurological event during angiographic coiling of a cerebral aneurysm.