bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Prospective Placebo Controlled Randomized Study of Caffeine in Patients with Supraventricular Tachycardia Undergoing Electrophysiologic Testing
Authors: LEMERY ROBERT , PECARSKIE AMANDA , BERNICK JORDAN , WILLIAMS KATHRYN , WELLS GEORGE A.
Published: July 2014

Study of Caffeine in Patients with Supraventricular Tachycardia

Introduction

Patients with cardiac arrhythmias are generally instructed to avoid caffeine intake. A comprehensive evaluation of the electrophysiological effects of caffeine on atrial and ventricular tissues in humans has not previously been performed.

Methods and Results

Eighty patients (31 men, mean age 49 ± 14 years) with symptomatic supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) undergoing an electrophysiologic study (EPS) prior to catheter ablation were randomized to receive oral caffeine or placebo. Caffeine at a dosage of 5 mg/kg (moderate intake) or placebo tablets were administered orally at a mean time of 57 ± 13 minutes prior to the EPS. The median (IQR) caffeine level in patients receiving caffeine was 7.4 μg/mL (4.7–8.7), as compared with 0.15 (0.00–0.61) in patients receiving placebo, P < 0.0001. Caffeine was associated with a significant increase in resting systolic and diastolic blood pressures as compared with placebo, while the resting heart rate was not significantly different between both groups. Caffeine was not associated with significant effects on the effective refractory period of the atrium or ventricle, as well as on AV node conduction. SVT was induced in all but 3 patients; there was no significant difference between groups receiving placebo or caffeine on SVT inducibility or the cycle length of induced tachycardias.

Conclusions

Caffeine, at moderate intake, was associated with significant increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressures, but had no evidence of a significant effect on cardiac conduction and refractoriness. Furthermore, no effect of caffeine on SVT induction or more rapid rates of induced tachycardias was found.
The Effect of Repeated Microwave Irradiation on the Dimensional Stability of a Specific Acrylic Denture Resin
Authors: Wagner David A. , Pipko Donald J.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

To determine the dimensional stability of a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) acrylic resin when subjected to multiple sessions of repeated microwave irradiation at power settings of 700 and 420 W.

Materials and Methods

Twenty standardized denture bases were fabricated using a PMMA resin. Points of measurement were marked on each denture base with a standardized template, and the distances between points were recorded using a digital microscope. The denture bases were randomly placed into two experimental groups of 10 bases each. Individual denture bases were placed into a glass beaker containing 200 ml of room temperature deionized water and then exposed to either 700 or 420 W of microwave radiation for 3 minutes. The denture bases were allowed to cool to room temperature, and measurements between points were recorded. This process was carried out for two microwave periods with measurements being completed after each period. The data were then analyzed for any significant changes in distances between points using a Student's t‐test.

Results

All denture bases experienced 1.0 to 2.0 mm or approximately 3% linear dimensional change after each period of microwaving. Results were significant with all t‐tests having values of p < 0.05.

Conclusion

This report showed that the denture bases deformed significantly under experimental conditions at either 700 W for 3 minutes in 200 ml of water or 420 W for 3 minutes in 200 ml of water.
The real impact of telaprevir dosage on the antiviral and side effects of telaprevir, pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy for chronic hepatitis C patients with HCV genotype 1
Authors: Oze T. , Hiramatsu N. , Yakushijin T. , Yamada R. , Harada N. , Morishita N. , Oshita M. , Mita E. , Ito T. , Inui Y. , Inada M. , Tamura S. , Yoshihara H. , Imai Y. , Kato M. , Miyagi T. , Yoshida Y. , Tatsumi T. , Kasahara A. , Hayashi N. , Takehara T.
Published: July 2014

Triple therapy with telaprevir, pegylated interferon and ribavirin has been reported to improve antiviral efficacy but have potentially severe adverse effects in patients with chronic hepatitis C. To avoid the severe effects of telaprevir, lowering the dose has been suggested. However, impact of dosage changes on antiviral and adverse effects remains unclear. One hundred and sixty‐six Japanese patients with HCV genotype 1 were treated with triple therapy. The drug exposure of each medication was calculated by averaging the dose actually taken. The overall SVR rate was 82%. The telaprevir discontinuation rate was 26%. The factors associated with discontinuation were an older age (≥65 y.o.) and a higher average dose during treatment. The telaprevir discontinuation rates were 42%, 25% and 14% in patients at ≥35, 25–35 and <25 mg/kg/day of telaprevir and 58% in older patients at ≥35 mg/kg/day of TVR. The factors associated with SVR were treatment‐naïve, relapse to previous treatment, higher average telaprevir dose during treatment and completion of treatment. The SVR rate was higher, at 91%, in patients at 25–35 mg/kg/day of telaprevir than the 71% and 78% observed in those at <25 and ≥35 mg/kg/day of drug. In Japanese patients, a mean telaprevir dose of 25–35 mg/kg/day during treatment can augment its efficacy in triple therapy for patients with HCV genotype 1.
The community‐level effect of light on germination timing in relation to seed mass: a source of regeneration niche differentiation
Authors: Zhang Chunhui , Willis Charles G. , Burghardt Liana T. , Qi Wei , Liu Kun , de Moura Souza‐Filho Paulo Roberto , Ma Zhen , Du Guozhen
Published: July 2014

Within a community, species may germinate at different times so as to mitigate competition and to take advantage of different aspects of the seasonal environment (temporal niche differentiation). We illustrated a hypothesis of the combined effects of abiotic and biotic competitive factors on germination timing and the subsequent upscale effects on community assembly.

We estimated the germination timing (GT) for 476 angiosperm species of the eastern Tibetan Plateau grasslands under two light treatments in the field: high (i.e. natural) light and low light. We also measured the shift in germination timing (SGT) across treatments for all species. Furthermore, we used phylogenetic comparative methods to test if GT and SGT were associated with seed mass, an important factor in competitive interactions.

We found a significant positive correlation between GT and seed mass in both light treatments. Additionally, small seeds (early germinating seeds) tended to germinate later and large seeds (late germinating seeds) tended to germinate earlier under low light vs high light conditions.

Low light availability can reduce temporal niche differentiation by increasing the overlap in germination time between small and large seeds. In turn, reduced temporal niche differentiation may increase competition in the process of community assembly.
A multilocus perspective on the phylogenetic relationships and diversification of rodents of the tribeAbrotrichini (Cricetidae:Sigmodontinae)
Authors: Cañón Carola , Mir Daiana , Pardiñas Ulyses F. J. , Lessa Enrique P. , D'Elía Guillermo
Published: July 2014

Abrotrichini is a recently defined and diagnosed tribe of Sigmodontinae with a complex taxonomy. Abrotrichine genera,Abrothrix(includingChroeomys),Chelemys,Geoxus,NotiomysandPearsonomys, are mostly distributed in the central and southern Andes and adjacent lowlands and show terrestrial and fossorial habits. Recent studies have evidenced some incongruence between current taxonomy and abrotrichine phylogeny, such as the polyphyly ofChelemysand paraphyly ofGeoxusrespect toPearsonomys. We usedDNAsequence data of six loci (one mitochondrial and five nuclear) to resolve the relationships within the tribe. Independent and combined analyses of these loci were carried out using parsimony, maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. Estimates of divergence time of the main lineages of abrotrichines were calculated with a molecular clock using as calibration, a fossil recently found. The concatenated data set increased the resolution and defined the relationships within the tribe. Our phylogenetic analyses corroborate thatAbrothrixis sister of a clade containing the long‐clawed abrotrichines. We recovered two main clades withinAbrothrixthat match morphologic variation and geographic distribution of its species. In addition, we corroborated the lack of monophyly ofChelemysand the lack of monophyly ofGeoxus. We discuss different taxonomic scenarios to abrotrichine classification reflects the phylogenetic relationships obtained in this study. Our molecular clock estimated the Abrotrichini crown age to be around the early Pliocene (4.4 Ma) and suggest that the tribe diversified over a short period of time.
Agreement Between the IPAQ and Accelerometer for Detecting Intervention-Related Changes in Physical Activity in a Sample of Latina Women
Authors: Nicaise Virginie , Crespo Noe C. , Marshall Simon
Published: July 2014

Background:

Even when objective physical activity (PA) measures are preferred, many intervention studies with Latina women rely on self-reports because they are more feasible and the type and domain of PA is of interest.

Purpose:

This study examined the sensitivity and specificity of the IPAQ for detecting intervention-related changes in physical activity compared with accelerometer measurement among Latinas.

Methods:

In March 2007, a community sample of 94 women (mean age = 36.31 ± 9.1 yr; mean body mass index = 31.37 ± 7.13) participated in a 12-week pedometer-based intervention to increase moderate intensity physical activity (MPA). Participants completed the Spanish-language International Physical Activity Questionnaire (Sp-IPAQ; telephone, long form) and wore an Actigraph accelerometer for 7 days at baseline and postintervention.

Results:

Both the IPAQ and the ActiGraph accelerometer detected intervention-related increases in MPA; however, these changes were largely uncorrelated. The IPAQ did not have acceptable level of sensitivity and specificity before and after the intervention when compared with objective assessments.

Conclusions:

Data suggest that it is important to improve the sensitivity and specificity of the IPAQ with Spanish-speaking participants and further research is needed to accurately measure intervention effectiveness using self-reports of PA in Latinas.
Declining Physical Activity and the Socio-Cultural Context of the Geography of Industrial Restructuring: A Novel Conceptual Framework
Authors: Rind Esther , Jones Andy
Published: July 2014

Background:

At the population level, the prevalence of physical activity has declined considerably in many developed countries in recent decades. There is some evidence that areas exhibiting the lowest activity levels are those which have undergone a particularly strong transition away from employment in physically demanding occupations. We propose that processes of deindustrialization may be causally linked to unexplained geographical disparities in levels of physical activity. While the sociocultural correlates of physical activity have been well studied, and prior conceptual frameworks have been developed to explain more general patterns of activity, none have explicitly attempted to identify the components of industrial change that may impact physical activity.

Methods:

In this work we review the current literature on sociocultural correlates of health behaviors before using a case study centered on the United Kingdom to present a novel framework that links industrial change to declining levels of physical activity.

Results:

We developed a comprehensive model linking sociocultural correlates of physical activity to processes associated with industrial restructuring and discuss implication for policy and practice.

Conclusions:

A better understanding of sociocultural processes may help to ameliorate adverse health consequences of employment decline in communities that have experienced substantial losses of manual employment.
Interface engineering of highly efficient perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhou Huanping , Chen Qi , Li Gang , Luo Song , Song Tze-bing , Duan Hsin-Sheng , Hong Ziruo , You Jingbi , Liu Yongsheng , Yang Yang
Published: July 2014

A layered approach improves solar cells

Perovskite films received a boost in photovoltaic efficiency through controlled formation of charge-generating films and improved current transfer to the electrodes. Zhou
et al.
lowered the defect density of the film by controlling humidity while the perovskite film formed from lead chloride and methylammonium iodide. Low-temperature processing steps allowed the use of materials that draw current out of the perovskite layer more efficiently. These and other modifications enabled a maximum cell efficiency of just over 19% and an average of 16.6%.

Science
, this issue p.
542
Impact of Rotavirus Vaccine on Premature Infants
Authors: Roué Jean-Michel , Nowak Emmanuel , Le Gal Grégoire , Lemaitre Thomas , Oger Emmanuel , Poulhazan Elise , Giroux Jean-Dominique , Garenne Armelle , Gagneur Arnaud
Published: July 2014

Infants born preterm are at a higher risk of complications and hospitalization in cases of rotavirus diarrhea than children born at term. We evaluated the impact of a rotavirus vaccination campaign (May 2007 to May 2010) on hospitalizations for rotavirus gastroenteritis in a population of children under 3 years old born prematurely (before 37 weeks of gestation) in the Brest University Hospital birth zone. Active surveillance from 2002 to 2006 and a prospective collection of hospitalizations for rotavirus diarrhea were initiated in the pediatric units of Brest University Hospital until May 2010. Numbers of hospitalizations for rotavirus diarrhea among the population of children born prematurely, before and after the start of the vaccination program, were compared using a Poisson regression model controlling for epidemic-to-epidemic variation. A total of 217 premature infants were vaccinated from 2007 to 2010. Vaccine coverage for a complete course of three doses was 41.9%. The vaccine safety in premature infants was similar to that in term infants. The vaccination program led to a division by a factor of 2.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3 to 5.2) in the number of hospitalizations for rotavirus diarrhea during the first two epidemic seasons following vaccine introduction and by a factor of 11 (95% CI, 3.5 to 34.8) during the third season. We observed significant effectiveness of the pentavalent rotavirus vaccine on the number of hospitalizations in a population of prematurely born infants younger than 3 years of age. A multicenter national study would provide better assessment of this impact. (This study [Impact of Systematic Infants Vaccination Against Rotavirus on Gastroenteritis Hospitalization: a Prospective Study in Brest District, France (IVANHOE)] has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration no. NCT00740935.)
Fatal Systemic Necrotizing Infections Associated with a Novel Paramyxovirus, Anaconda Paramyxovirus, in Green Anaconda Juveniles
Authors: Woo Patrick C. Y. , Lau Susanna K. P. , Martelli Paolo , Hui Suk-Wai , Lau Candy C. Y. , Fan Rachel Y. Y. , Groff Joseph M. , Tam Emily W. T. , Chan Kwok-Hung , Yuen Kwok-Yung
Published: July 2014

Beginning in July 2011, 31 green anaconda (
Eunectes murinus
) juveniles from an oceanarium in Hong Kong died over a 12-month period. Necropsy revealed at least two of the following features in 23 necropsies: dermatitis, severe pan-nephritis, and/or severe systemic multiorgan necrotizing inflammation. Histopathological examination revealed severe necrotizing inflammation in various organs, most prominently the kidneys. Electron microscopic examination of primary tissues revealed intralesional accumulations of viral nucleocapsids with diameters of 10 to 14 nm, typical of paramyxoviruses. Reverse transcription (RT)-PCR results were positive for paramyxovirus (viral loads of 2.33 × 10
4
to 1.05 × 10
8
copies/mg tissue) in specimens from anaconda juveniles that died but negative in specimens from the two anaconda juveniles and anaconda mother that survived. None of the other snakes in the park was moribund, and RT-PCR results for surveillance samples collected from other snakes were negative. The virus was isolated from BHK21 cells, causing cytopathic effects with syncytial formation. The virus could also replicate in 25 of 27 cell lines of various origins, in line with its capability for infecting various organs. Electron microscopy with cell culture material revealed enveloped virus with the typical “herringbone” appearance of helical nucleocapsids in paramyxoviruses. Complete genome sequencing of five isolates confirmed that the infections originated from the same clone. Comparative genomic and phylogenetic analyses and mRNA editing experiments revealed a novel paramyxovirus in the genus
Ferlavirus
, named anaconda paramyxovirus, with a typical
Ferlavirus
genomic organization of 3′-N-U-P/V/I-M-F-HN-L-5′. Epidemiological and genomic analyses suggested that the anaconda juveniles acquired the virus perinatally from the anaconda mother rather than from other reptiles in the park, with subsequent interanaconda juvenile transmission.
Parvovirus-Derived Endogenous Viral Elements in Two South American Rodent Genomes
Authors: Arriagada Gloria , Gifford Robert J.
Published: July 2014

We describe endogenous viral elements (EVEs) derived from parvoviruses (family
Parvoviridae
) in the genomes of the long-tailed chinchilla (
Chinchilla lanigera
) and the degu (
Octodon degus
). The novel EVEs include dependovirus-related elements and representatives of a clearly distinct parvovirus lineage that also has endogenous representatives in marsupial genomes. In the degu, one dependovirus-derived EVE was found to carry an intact reading frame and was differentially expressed
in vivo
, with increased expression in the liver.
Surgical and orthodontic management of a horizontally impacted permanent mandibular canine: timing is vital
Authors: Trivedi Bhavesh , Jayam Cheranjeevi , Bandlapalli Anila , Patel Nikunj
Published: July 2014

Failure of eruption of the mandibular permanent canine is an unusual event. This case report presents combined surgical and orthodontic management of an impacted permanent mandibular canine of a 10-year-old boy. Treatment considerations for impacted mandibular canines differ in comparison with other teeth. The paper also highlights on various treatment options, timing and biomechanical considerations while dealing with these teeth.
Mandibular first molar with six root canals: a rare entity
Authors: Hasan Muhammad , Rahman Munawar , Saad Najeeb
Published: July 2014

Recently, there has been an ongoing trend of case reports that highlight the presence of more than four root canals in mandibular first molars. This tendency warns clinicians to be more prudent when dealing with mandibular first molars requiring endodontic treatment. Moreover, radiographic examination should be taken as a clue providing tool rather than as an absolute guide to anatomy and its associated aberrances. This case reports the successful non-surgical endodontic management of a mandibular first molar with six root canal systems with three canals in the mesial root and three in the distal root. The classification of root canal systems found in this case was Sert and Bayirli type XV in both the roots. After non-surgical endodontic treatment, the tooth was restored definitively with a resin composite core followed by porcelain fused to the metal crown. This case adds to the library of previously reported cases of mandibular first molars with six root canals and further emphasises on the importance of rare morphological deviations that may occur in the mandibular first molars.
Chronic tubal ectopic pregnancy: a rare but challenging diagnosis
Authors: Drakopoulos P , Pluchino N , Yaron M , Dällenbach P
Published: July 2014

A 34-year-old woman without any medical history presented to our hospital emergency unit with a history of 4 days of progressively increasing pain in the left iliac fossa, fever and vaginal bleeding for the past 3 weeks. Urine pregnancy test and serum bhCG were negative. CT scan showed a left pelvic mass compatible with a tubo-ovarian abscess. After transfer to our gynaecology unit, transvaginal ultrasound revealed an empty uterus with a heterogeneous mass in the left adnexal area. We performed a laparoscopy, which revealed an enlarged left haematosalpinx with firm adhesions to the surrounding organs, but no abscess. A total left salpingectomy was undertaken and the histopathological examination revealed the presence of chorionic villi, suggesting the diagnosis of chronic ectopic tubal pregnancy. The postoperative course was uneventful.
Poor infant and young child feeding practices and sources of caregivers’ feeding knowledge in rural Hebei Province, China: findings from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Wu Qiong , Scherpbier Robert W , van Velthoven Michelle Helena , Chen Li , Wang Wei , Li Ye , Zhang Yanfeng , Car Josip
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To obtain a general overview of infant and young child feeding practices in one rural county in China and identify current delivery channels and challenges.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

A rural county, Zhao County, in Hebei Province, China.

Participants

10 clusters were first selected within each township (16 townships in total) with proportional to population size sampling. In each cluster, a name list was used to select 13 children aged 0–23 months. We interviewed caregivers of all the selected children.

Primary and secondary outcomes measures

Coverage of infant feeding practices, reasons for low coverage of infant feeding practices and current delivery channels of infant feeding practices.

Results

Findings from our survey indicated that infant feeding practices were poor. Early initiation of breastfeeding was only 22.4%, exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months was less than 10% and continued breastfeeding up to the age of two was just 38.2%. Only 32.5% of children were given iron-rich or iron-fortified foods. The leading sources of infant feeding information were family members, neighbours, friends and popular media. Only around 20% of the information came from health facilities and nearly none came from communities. Household property data showed that 99.9% of households owned televisions and 99.4% owned mobile phones. In addition, 61.2% of the households owned computers, with 54.8% having access to the internet.

Conclusions

Few caregivers of children in Zhao County received feeding information during pregnancy and after delivery. Moreover, their feeding knowledge and practices were poor. Multi-channel approaches, delivered through health facilities, community resources, popular media, the internet and mobile phones, hold potential to improve infant feeding practices and should be explored in future studies.

Strengths and limitations

Although this study took place only within one county, a full range of globally standard feeding indicators was used to assess the feeding practices of caregivers in our study. The name lists of children in some villages may not be complete, and therefore selection bias may have occurred. Some indicators may have recall bias due to long recall time.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR-PRC-11001446.
Focus on: vaccination against equine grass sickness
Authors: Ireland Jo
Published: July 2014

Jo Ireland of the Animal Health Trust describes a new field trial of a potential vaccine against equine grass sickness
HIGHLY CATALYTICAg/Co3O4NANOCATALYSTS FABRICATED FORRhBDYE DEGRADATION THROUGH A SIMPLE SILVER-MIRROR REACTION UNDER VISIBLE LIGHT
Authors: SI XIAOLEI , CHEN GUANGLIANG , CHEN ZHILI , HUANG JUN , CHEN SHIHUA , MASSEY SYLVAIN
Published: July 2014

In this paper, a highly catalytic and nanosized Ag / Co3O4composite for rhodamine B ( RhB ) degradation was fabricated by using the co-precipitation method at room temperature. The Ag / Co3O4structure and catalytic properties were characterized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) gas-sorption measurements, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results showed that the Co3O4nanosheets prepared by hydrothermal synthesis mainly exposed (2 2 0) and (1 1 1) facets, which played an important role in determining its catalytic oxidation performance. The Co3O4nanosheets doped with Ag nanoparticles by a simple silver-mirror reaction exhibited a stable and well-dispersed property in dye solution. Compared to the Ag and Co3O4nanostructure, the Ag nanoparticles with bigger diameter (10 nm) on Co3O4surface also readily produced surface-active oxygen species and exhibited a higher catalytic activity for the degradation of RhB solution (5 mg ⋅ L-1) under the visible light. The kinetic constant K of Ag / Co3O4catalyst for RhB degradation reaction was evaluated to 0.02724 min-1, which is relatively higher than those reported in the literatures.
RhoA and MAPK signal transduction pathways regulate NHE1-dependent proximal tubule cell apoptosis after mechanical stretch
Authors: Bocanegra Victoria , Gil Lorenzo Andrea Fernanda , Cacciamani Valeria , Benardón María Eugenia , Costantino Valeria Victoria , Vallés Patricia G.
Published: July 2014

Mechanical deformation after congenital ureteral obstruction is traduced into biochemical signals leading to tubular atrophy due to epithelial cell apoptosis. We investigated whether Na+/H+exchanger 1 (NHE1) could be responsible for HK-2 cell apoptosis induction in response to mechanical stretch through its ability to function as a control point of RhoA and MAPK signaling pathways. When mechanical stretch was applied to HK-2 cells, cell apoptosis was associated with diminished NHE1 expression and RhoA activation. The RhoA signaling pathway was confirmed to be upstream from the MAPK cascade when HK-2 cells were transfected with the active RhoA-V14 mutant, showing higher ERK1/2 expression and decreased p38 activation associated with NHE1 downregulation. NHE1 participation in apoptosis induction was confirmed by specific small interfering RNA NHE1 showing caspase-3 activation and decreased Bcl-2 expression. The decreased NHE1 expression was correlated with abnormal NHE1 activity addressed by intracellular pH measurements. These results demonstrate that mitochondrial proximal tubule cell apoptosis in response to mechanical stretch is orchestrated by signaling pathways initiated by the small GTPase RhoA and followed by the opposing effects of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK phosphorylation, regulating NHE1 decreased expression and activity.
Selective Inhibition of Regulatory T Cells by Targeting the PI3K–Akt Pathway
Authors: Abu-Eid Rasha , Samara Raed N. , Ozbun Laurent , Abdalla Maher Y. , Berzofsky Jay A. , Friedman Kevin M. , Mkrtichyan Mikayel , Khleif Samir N.
Published: July 2014

Despite the strides that immunotherapy has made in mediating tumor regression, the clinical effects are often transient, and therefore more durable responses are still needed. The temporary nature of the therapy-induced immune response can be attributed to tumor immune evasion mechanisms, mainly the effect of suppressive immune cells and, in particular, regulatory T cells (Treg). Although the depletion of Tregs has been shown to be effective in enhancing immune responses, selective depletion of these suppressive cells without affecting other immune cells has not been very successful, and new agents are sought. We found that PI3K–Akt pathway inhibitors selectively inhibit Tregs with minimal effect on conventional T cells (Tconv). Our results clearly show selective in vitro inhibition of activation (as represented by a decrease in downstream signaling) and proliferation of Tregs in comparison with Tconvs when treated with different Akt and PI3K inhibitors. This effect has been observed in both human and murine CD4 T cells. In vivo treatment with these inhibitors resulted in a significant and selective reduction in Tregs in both naïve and tumor-bearing mice. Furthermore, these PI3K–Akt inhibitors led to a significant therapeutic antitumor effect, which was shown to be Treg dependent. Here, we report the use of PI3K–Akt pathway inhibitors as potent agents for the selective depletion of suppressive Tregs. We show that these inhibitors are able to enhance the antitumor immune response and are therefore promising clinical reagents for Treg depletion. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(11); 1080–9. ©2014 AACR.
Nationwide Study on Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Iceland
Authors: Adalsteinsdottir Berglind , Teekakirikul Polakit , Maron Barry J. , Burke Michael A. , Gudbjartsson Daniel F. , Holm Hilma , Stefansson Kari , DePalma Steven R. , Mazaika Erica , McDonough Barbara , Danielsen Ragnar , Seidman Jonathan G. , Seidman Christine E. , Gunnarsson Gunnar T.
Published: July 2014

Background—

The geographic isolation and homogeneous population of Iceland are ideally suited to ascertain clinical and genetic characteristics of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) at the population level.

Methods and Results—

Medical records and cardiac imaging studies obtained between 1997 and 2010 were reviewed to identify Icelandic patients with HCM. Surviving patients were recruited for clinical and genetic studies. A previously identified Icelandic mutation,
MYBPC3
c.927-2A>G, was genotyped, and mutation-negative samples were sequenced for HCM genes and other hypertrophic genes. Record review identified 180 patients with HCM. Genetic analyses of 151 patients defined pathogenic mutations in 101 (67%), including
MYBPC3
c.927-2A>G (88 patients, 58%), 4 other
MYBPC3
or
MYH7
mutations (5 patients, 3.3%), and 2
GLA
mutations (8 patients, 5.3%). Haplotype and genetic genealogical data defined
MYBPC3
c.927-2A>G as a founder mutation, introduced into the Icelandic population in the 15th century, with a current population prevalence of 0.36%.
MYBPC3
c.927-2A>G mutation carriers exhibited phenotypic diversity but were younger at diagnosis (42 versus 49 years;
P
=0.001) and sustained more adverse events (15% versus 2%;
P
=0.02) than mutation-negative patients. All-cause mortality for patients with HCM was similar to that of an age-matched Icelandic population (hazard ratio, 0.98;
P
=0.9). HCM-related mortality (0.78%/y) occurred at a mean age of 68 compared with 81 years for non–HCM-related mortality (
P
=0.02).

Conclusions—

A founder
MYBPC3
mutation that arose >550 years ago is the predominant cause of HCM in Iceland. The
MYBPC3
c.927-2A>G mutation is associated with low adverse event rates but earlier cardiovascular mortality, illustrating the impact of genotype on outcomes in HCM.
Molecular phylogeny of the pond skaters (Gerrinae), discussion of the fossil record and a checklist of species assigned to the subfamily (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Gerridae)
Authors: Damgaard Jakob , Moreira Felipe Ferraz Figueiredo , Weir Tom A. , Zettel Herbert
Published: July 2014

The phylogenetic relationships among selected species and genera of Gerrinae (Heteroptera: Gerridae) were investigated in a parsimony analysis of 2268 bp of DNA sequence data from the genes encoding COI + II, 16S rRNA and 28S rRNA. The taxa represented 12 of 15 recognized genera of Gerrinae and with outgroup taxa from all other subfamilies of Gerridae, including three of five recognized genera of Eotrechinae, which is considered the sister-group of Gerrinae. The resulting phylogeny shows that Gerrinae is not monophyletic, since a clade comprising Gerris, Aquarius, Limnoporus, Tachygerris, Eurygerris and Gigantometra is more closely related to representatives of the subfamily Eotrechinae than to a clade comprising Limnogonus, Neogerris, Limnometra, Tenagogerris and Tenagogonus. The two currently recognized gerrine tribes, Tachygerrini and Gerrini, were also paraphyletic, since Eurygerris was sister-group to Gigantometra, while Tachygerris was sister-group to Limnoporus + Aquarius + Gerris. Limnogonus and Neogerris were found to be strongly supported sister-taxa, and their sister-group was a clade comprising Limnometra, Tenagogerris and Tenagogonus, none of which were monophyletic. Finally, Aquarius chilensis (Berg, 1881) was sister-group to a clade comprising Aquarius amplus (Drake & Harris, 1938), A. remigis (Say, 1832) and A. remigoides (Gallant & Fairbairn, 1993), recognized as the A. remigis species group, and the entire clade was sister-group to Gerris. Based on the phylogenetic reconstruction, we outline possible diagnostic character combinations for a future revision of the Gerrinae and discuss the fossil record. While some of the relationships reinstate earlier ideas, e.g., Limnogonus and Neogerris being sister groups, many others are poorly supported and poorly diagnosed, and therefore, we retain from drawing taxonomic conclusions until data is available from the remaining genera, which can support a future generic revision of the Gerrinae. The updated checklist of species assigned to the subfamily is therefore based on the established taxonomy.
Who Gets Visited in Prison? Individual- and Community-Level Disparities in Inmate Visitation Experiences
Authors: Cochran Joshua C. , Mears Daniel P. , Bales William D.
Published: July 2014

Scholarship has shown that visitation helps individuals maintain social ties during imprisonment, which, in turn, can improve inmate behavior and reduce recidivism. Not being visited can result in collateral consequences and inequality in punishment. Few studies, however, have explored the factors associated with visitation. This study uses data on Florida inmates to identify individual- and community-level factors that may affect visitation. Consistent with expectations derived from prior theory and research, the study finds that inmates who are older, Black, and who have been incarcerated more frequently experience less visitation. In addition, inmates who come from areas with higher incarceration rates and higher levels of social altruism experience more visits. Unexpectedly, however, sentence length and economic disadvantage are not associated with visitation. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Social Bonds, Juvenile Delinquency, and Korean Adolescents
Authors: Peterson Bryce Elling , Lee Daiwon , Henninger Alana M. , Cubellis Michelle A.
Published: July 2014

Social bonds theory is one of the most influential and tested perspectives for explaining juvenile delinquency, yet tests have often been methodologically limited. Prior research has failed to examine how intra- and interindividual variation in social bonding influences delinquency. In addition, there are few applications of this theory to non-Western contexts. Thus, the current study attempts to test the cross-cultural generalizability of social bonds theory and overcome weaknesses of prior research. We use longitudinal panel analyses and five waves of data from the Korean Youth Panel Survey to examine the influence of nine measures of social bonding on delinquent behavior. By estimating different panel models, we find some support for social bonds as indicators of within- and between-individual variation in delinquency. Specifically, the emphasis on education in Korea and the role of parents in supervising their children play an integral role in reducing the delinquency of Korean youth.
Conserving Water While Washing Hands
Authors: Richetin Juliette , Perugini Marco , Mondini Denny , Hurling Robert
Published: July 2014

As water scarcity problems will probably increase over the next decade, it is important to explore ways to reduce water consumption in everyday individual behaviors. In line with previous field research, we aimed to show in a laboratory setting that descriptive norms could effectively influence water reduction actions. Moreover, because the impact of such actions would be valuable if repeated over time, we investigated whether the effect of descriptive norms interventions can last for at least a week. We conducted three studies using two messages targeting different ways to achieve a reduction in water consumption (i.e., closing the tap and using as little water as possible) for hand washing. We provide additional empirical evidence that descriptive norms are effective in increasing water conservation actions and that this influence remains for at least a week.
Dry sliding wear and friction behavior of aluminum–rice husk ash composite using Taguchi’s technique
Authors: Senthilkumar M , Saravanan SD , Shankar S
Published: July 2014

Dry sliding wear and friction behavior of aluminum alloy (AlSi10Mg) reinforced with agriculture waste such as rice husk ash have been investigated using plan of experiments (L27 Orthogonal array) generated through Taguchi technique. Three parameters namely applied load (20, 30, and 40 N), sliding speed (2, 3, and 4 m s−1) and rice husk ash reinforcement (6, 9, and 12%wt.) have been varied to find their effect over the wear and friction behavior of the composites. The analysis of variance and regression equations were also employed to find their interactions over wear rate and coefficient of friction of the composite. “Smaller-the-better” characteristics were chosen to develop a predictive model for analyzing the dry sliding wear resistance. The result reveals that the wear rate and coefficient of friction were influenced highly by percentage reinforcement followed by applied load and sliding speed. Finally, the confirmation test was also carried out to verify the predictive model with the experimental results. Wear surface morphology of the wear pins was analyzed using scanning electron microscope.
The International Congress of Psychology (ICP 2012): a brief analysis of the scientific programme
Authors: Pillay Anthony L , Pillay Basil J , Duncan Norman
Published: July 2014

South African Psychology has a unique history and stands out among its peers across the world. In the wake of its divided past and collusion with apartheid, its subsequent international ‘rehabilitation’ was capped by its successful hosting of the International Congress of Psychology (2012) during July 2012. This was the first such event on the African continent, and involved a mammoth organisational effort that spanned more than 6 years. This article briefly analyses the scientific programme within the context of the content areas and the countries represented. Some of the challenges faced by the Scientific Committee are also outlined, together with the strategies developed to manage these challenges.
‘It’s not only what we say but what we do’: Pay inequalities and gendered workplace democracy in Argentinian worker coops
Authors: Oseen Collette
Published: July 2014

In a study conducted by the author in 2006 of five mixed-sex, worker-led cooperatives in Buenos Aires, all of the workers in each of the coops were paid exactly the same. Five years later, only two of the worker cooperatives – both dominated by women – came even close to maintaining the same pay for everyone. The other three cooperatives, all dominated by male workers, had instituted hierarchical pay scales which paralleled a concomitant decrease in workplace democracy. An increase in pay inequities and a decrease in worker democracy went together; moreover, the two paralleled an increasingly inhospitable workplace for women. This article addresses two, interconnected, questions: How did this intertwining of pay and worker democracy happen, and more specifically, how was this process gendered?
Anticipating their future
Authors: Finlay Andrea K. , Wray-Lake Laura , Warren Michael , Maggs Jennifer
Published: July 2014

Adolescent future values—beliefs about what will matter to them in the future—may shape their adult behavior. Utilizing a national longitudinal British sample, this study examined whether adolescent future values in six domains (i.e., family responsibility, full-time job, personal responsibility, autonomy, civic responsibility, and hedonistic privilege) predicted adult social roles, civic behaviors, and alcohol use. Future values positively predicted behaviors within the same domain; fewer cross-domain associations were evident. Civic responsibility positively predicted adult civic behaviors, but negatively predicted having children. Hedonistic privilege positively predicted adult alcohol use and negatively predicted civic behaviors. Results suggest that attention should be paid to how adolescents are thinking about their futures due to the associated links with long-term social and health behaviors.
“They Accept Me, They Accept Me Not”
Authors: Artemis Giotsa , Touloumakos Anna K.
Published: July 2014

This article examines the psychometric properties of the Greek adaptation of Child Parental Acceptance–Rejection Questionnaire (PARQ)–Short Form, Mother, and Father versions. Data on the 24-item long measure were collected from 534 preadolescents and adolescents of the municipality of Ioannina. Participants were asked to report their agreement or disagreement on a 4-point Likert-type scale, developed to tap in to four factors (subscales), namely, (a) perceived warmth/affection, (b) perceived hostility/aggression, (c) perceived indifference/neglect, and (d) perceived undifferentiated rejection. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted first, to explore if the structure of the four-factor model of Child PARQ is corroborated with the Greek sample. Additionally, the internal consistency of the proposed four factors (subscales) and the global scale were examined through obtaining Cronbach’s alphas and Gutman’s split-half coefficients. The analyses provide preliminary, yet strong, evidence for the structural invariance of the Greek adaptation of Child PARQ–Short Form.
Targeted Amelioration of Cisplatin‐Induced Ototoxicity in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Mohan Shaulnie , Smyth Brendan J. , Namin Arya , Phillips Grady , Gratton Michael Anne
Published: July 2014

This pilot study compared otoprotection provided by trans‐tympanic formulations and systemic intraperitoneal administration of L‐N‐acetylcysteine from cisplatin‐induced cochlear oxidative stress. Protection was assessed by measures of hearing loss and cochlear glutathione levels. All groups received an equivalent single dose of L‐N‐acetylcysteine followed by cisplatin.

Cisplatin was administered subcutaneously for 3 days (5.5 mg/kg/day). Two hours prior to day 1 cisplatin, L‐N‐acetylcysteine was administered either intraperitoneally (250 mg/kg), trans‐tympanic as 2% L‐N‐acetylcysteine in gel, or trans‐tympanic as L‐N‐acetylcysteine–loaded nanocapsules in gel. Hearing was assessed prior to and 3 days after cisplatin followed by microdissection of cochlear tissue. The levels of reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione in homogenized tissue supernatants were determined via luminometry.

Intraperitoneal L‐N‐acetylcysteine administration preceding cisplatin resulted in less hearing loss and a higher GSH/GSSG ratio than either trans‐tympanic formulation. This suggests that for equivalent doses of L‐N‐acetylcysteine, systemic rather than targeted cochlear delivery provides increased otoprotection from cisplatin ototoxicity.
How can emerging market small and medium-sized enterprises maximise internationalisation benefits? The moderating effect of organisational flexibility
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Ma Xufei , Wang Yue , Wang Yangwen
Published: July 2014

A fundamental assumption in the small business literature is that the competitive advantages of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are rooted in their organisational flexibility. However, prior research tends to view the effects of different types of organisational flexibility as homogeneous. In the context of the internationalisation of SMEs from emerging markets, this article proposes that different types of organisational flexibility influence the extent to which SMEs can benefit from their internationalisation. Using a sample of Chinese SMEs, the study shows that strategic flexibility helps emerging market SMEs benefit from their internationalisation, but that operational flexibility weakens the main effect. Finally, structural flexibility has no significant influence on the internationalisation–performance relationship.
Entrepreneurship in China: An overview
Authors: Ahlstrom David , Ding Zhujun
Published: July 2014

This article offers an overview of entrepreneurship in China to complement this special issue of International Small Business Journal: ‘Exploring Entrepreneurial Activity and Small Business Issues in the Chinese Economy’. A broad review of entrepreneurship research is provided and linked to the context of research in China with several principal topics summarised. These include an examination of recent research on entrepreneurial firms in China, the attributes of Chinese entrepreneurs and the challenges they face. Finally, future research avenues are suggested.
The moral legitimacy of entrepreneurs: An analysis of early-stage entrepreneurship across 26 countries
Authors: Kibler Ewald , Kautonen Teemu
Published: July 2014

This article develops our socio-cultural understanding of entrepreneurship by examining the influence of the moral legitimacy of entrepreneurs upon an individual’s engagement in early-stage entrepreneurship. A multilevel analysis conducted across 26 countries demonstrates that the higher the perceived degree of moral legitimacy, the more likely an individual is to consider starting a business, to begin preparing a business and to progress to actually found and run the business. We conclude that moral norms in society are an important influence upon early-stage entrepreneurship; thus, it is critical to legitimize the position of entrepreneurs as moral and beneficial for society as a whole.
Safety and efficacy of peripheral nerve stimulation of the occipital nerves for the management of chronic migraine: Long-term results from a randomized, multicenter, double-blinded, controlled study
Authors: Dodick David W , Silberstein Stephen D , Reed Kenneth L , Deer Timothy R , Slavin Konstantin V , Huh Billy , Sharan Ashwini D , Narouze Samer , Mogilner Alon Y , Trentman Terrence L , Ordia Joe , Vaisman Julien , Goldstein Jerome , Mekhail Nagy
Published: July 2014

Background

Recent studies evaluated short-term efficacy and safety of peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) of the occipital nerves for managing chronic migraine. We present 52-week safety and efficacy results from an open-label extension of a randomized, sham-controlled trial.

Methods

In this institutional review board-approved, randomized, multicenter, double-blinded study, patients were implanted with a neurostimulation system, randomized to an active or control group for 12 weeks, and received open-label treatment for an additional 40 weeks. Outcomes collected included number of headache days, pain intensity, migraine disability assessment (MIDAS), Zung Pain and Distress (PAD), direct patient reports of headache pain relief, quality of life, satisfaction and adverse events. Statistical tests assessed change from baseline to 52 weeks using paired t-tests. Intent-to-treat (ITT) analyses of all patients ( N = 157) and analyses of only patients who met criteria for intractable chronic migraine (ICM; N = 125) were performed.

Results

Headache days were significantly reduced by 6.7 (±8.4) days in the ITT population ( p < 0.001) and by 7.7 (±8.7) days in the ICM population ( p < 0.001). The percentages of patients who achieved a 30% and 50% reduction in headache days and/or pain intensity were 59.5% and 47.8%, respectively. MIDAS and Zung PAD scores were significantly reduced for both populations. Excellent or good headache relief was reported by 65.4% of the ITT population and 67.9% of the ICM population. More than half the patients in both cohorts were satisfied with the headache relief provided by the device. A total of 183 device/procedure-related adverse events occurred during the study, of which 18 (8.6%) required hospitalization and 85 (40.7%) required surgical intervention; 70% of patients experienced an adverse event.

Conclusion

Our results support the 12-month efficacy of PNS of the occipital nerves for headache pain and disability associated with chronic migraine. More emphasis on adverse event mitigation is needed in future research. Trial registration: Clinical trials.gov (NCT00615342).