bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Free vibration of unidirectional sandwich panels, Part II: Incompressible core
Authors: Phan CN , Frostig Y , Kardomateas GA
Published: May 2013

The free vibration response of a unidirectional sandwich panel with an incompressible core using shear deformable and layered models is presented. The models considered include the layered model, ordinary sandwich panel theory that uses a zig-zag in-plane displacements distribution in addition to the shear deformations and the first and high-order shear deformable theories that adopt an approach which replaces the layered sandwich panel with a single layer with equivalent properties. The mathematical formulations use Hamilton’s principle to present the general equations of motion and the specific mass and stiffness matrices for a simply-supported panel. The results of the models are compared with the closed-form solution of the 2D elasticity equations of motion and finite element results of ADINA. The numerical comparison is described in terms of eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes of displacements and stresses and reveal a good correlation at the lower modes only.
Consensus definitions and application guidelines for control groups in cerebrospinal fluid biomarker studies in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Teunissen Charlotte , Menge Til , Altintas Ayse , Álvarez-Cermeño José C , Bertolotto Antonio , Berven Frode S , Brundin Lou , Comabella Manuel , Degn Matilde , Deisenhammer Florian , Fazekas Franz , Franciotta Diego , Frederiksen Jette L , Galimberti Daniela , Gnanapavan Sharmilee , Hegen Harald , Hemmer Bernhard , Hintzen Rogier , Hughes Steve , Iacobaeus Ellen , Kroksveen Ann C , Kuhle Jens , Richert John , Tumani Hayrettin , Villar Luisa M , Drulovic Jelena , Dujmovic Irena , Khalil Michael , Bartos Ales
Published: May 2013

The choice of appropriate control group(s) is critical in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker research in multiple sclerosis (MS). There is a lack of definitions and nomenclature of different control groups and a rationalized application of different control groups. We here propose consensus definitions and nomenclature for the following groups: healthy controls (HCs), spinal anesthesia subjects (SASs), inflammatory neurological disease controls (INDCs), peripheral inflammatory neurological disease controls (PINDCs), non-inflammatory neurological controls (NINDCs), symptomatic controls (SCs). Furthermore, we discuss the application of these control groups in specific study designs, such as for diagnostic biomarker studies, prognostic biomarker studies and therapeutic response studies. Application of these uniform definitions will lead to better comparability of biomarker studies and optimal use of available resources. This will lead to improved quality of CSF biomarker research in MS and related disorders.
Cosmopolitan Habits: The Capacities and Habitats of Intercultural Conviviality
Authors: Noble Greg
Published: May 2013

Public debate around cultural diversity has been dominated by a focus on ‘panicked multiculturalism’ – those spaces which have been subject to social anxieties because of perceived conflicts around ethnicity. This article attempts to address the habitual ways cultural differences are transacted and reconciled in the daily conduct of people in culturally diverse settings. Although habit has been a central category for understanding racial prejudice, it has rarely impacted on an understanding of the practices and capacities which people develop for living with difference, the routinised ‘civic virtues’ of intercultural life. Cosmopolitanism and conviviality have become significant tools in framing this enquiry, though not without problems. The issue for this article is whether these terms are methodologically useful for the analysis of the habits of ‘civic virtues’. This article, drawing on the everyday interactions in and around a school, argues that we need to conceptualise conviviality as an object of empirical research. This requires that we think about habit as a pedagogical process, and the temporal and spatial elements through which ‘cosmopolitan’ behaviours are habituated.
Habit as Switchpoint
Authors: Crook Tom
Published: May 2013

Building on Mary Poovey’s reflections, this article outlines a two-fold genealogy of habit in the context of the philosophy and practice of liberalism. One aspect relates to the word ‘habit’, which by the 19th century had come to mean the repetitive actions of the body and mind, thus shedding its former association with dress and collective customs. The second relates to how ‘habit’ functioned as a means of mediating the tensions of liberalism, three in particular: between the self and the social; between an individual’s past, present and future actions; and between the role of the state and the role of self-government.
Habit and Habituation
Authors: Bennett Tony , Dodsworth Francis , Noble Greg , Poovey Mary , Watkins Megan
Published: May 2013

This article examines the issues that are at stake in the current resurgence of interest in the subject of habit. We focus on the role that habit has played in conceptions of the relations between body and society, and the respects in which such conceptions have been implicated in processes of governance. We argue that habit has typically constituted a point of leverage for regulatory practices that seek to effect some realignment of the relations between different components of personhood – will, character, memory and instinct, for example – in order to bring about a specific end. In reviewing its functioning in this regard across a range of modern disciplines – philosophy, psychology, sociology – we explore the tensions between its use and interpretation in different lineages: in particular, the Cartesian–Kantian/Ravaisson–Bergson–Deleuze lineages. The article then identifies how these questions are addressed across the contributions collected in this special issue.
Seeking control: Disentangling the difficult sociality of Kakadu National Park’s joint management
Authors: Haynes Chris
Published: May 2013

This article discusses joint management in Kakadu National Park, Australia’s biggest and arguably most complex protected area, where the policy is devised to allow sharing of power between the state and the area’s traditional Aboriginal owners. Although power is shared, this happens in a clumsy and difficult-to-understand way, confusing a divided group of actors. Most of them are convinced that most power lies with the other group and that they themselves are powerless to deal with contesting forms of cultural capital. In arguing this position I show how structure and habitus have become entrenched in one domain of the park’s management but radically changed in another.
Masculinised jobs, feminised jobs and men’s ‘gender capital’ experiences: Understanding occupational segregation in Australia
Authors: Huppatz Kate , Goodwin Susan
Published: May 2013

Australia features a highly segregated workforce where certain occupational spaces appear to privilege particular gendered dispositions. While research on gender and work highlights the association between occupational segregation and gender inequality, conventional explanations of why men and women continue to be concentrated in different occupations, and in different roles within occupations, can be considered problematic. This article argues that we may be able to achieve a deeper understanding of gendered occupational segregation than previous explanations have offered by appropriating Bourdieu’s concept, ‘capital’. Drawing on qualitative research with Australian workers we explore men’s ‘gender capital experiences’ within masculinised and feminised occupations. The article discusses how male, masculine and feminine embodiments can operate as capitals which may be accumulated and transacted, perpetuating horizontal gender segregation in the workforce but also vertical segregation within occupations. In doing so, we expand the work of feminist Bourdieusian scholars who have reworked Bourdieu’s approach so that gender, as well as class, may be understood as a central form of stratification in the social order.
Rethinking cultural capital and community-based arts
Authors: Khan Rimi
Published: May 2013

This article examines the contemporary field of Australian community-based arts in light of Bourdieu’s work on cultural capital. It considers how questions of ethnicity have complicated the field of community-based arts and informed the experience of artists and participants. These questions have implications for what it is that these organisations seek to do; specifically, the sorts of ‘capital’ they impart to participants in their programs, and what the significance of such capital is. Articulating a critical notion of cultural capital – and one that can accommodate the knowledges and competences that are relevant to the contemporary Australian context – can contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the role such arts organisations have in redefining or contesting the hierarchies of value that inform the art field.
The early years, 1939–1953: Garfinkel at North Carolina, Harvard and Princeton
Authors: Rawls Anne Warfield
Published: May 2013

The years 1939–1953 were important both for the development of Garfinkel’s ideas and for the discipline of sociology more generally. But very little is known about Garfinkel’s work during this period of rapid disciplinary change – or of his close relationship then with many intellectual leaders in sociology, psychology, philosophy and economics. Filling in details of his work during this period promises to improve the understanding of his important contribution.
Modeling wave propagation and scattering from impact damage for structural health monitoring of composite sandwich plates
Authors: Luchinsky Dmitry G , Hafiychuk Vasyl , Smelyanskiy Vadim N , Kessler Seth , Walker James , Miller Jim , Watson Michael
Published: May 2013

Results of modeling of the wave propagation, impact, and damage detection in a sandwich honeycomb plate using piezoelectric actuator/sensor scheme are reported. A finite element model of honeycomb sandwich panel that reproduces accurately experimental setup and takes into account main characteristic features of the real composite panel, impactor, lead zirconate titanate actuator, and sensors is developed. The impact is simulated to obtain damage with parameters close to those observed in the experiment. Both in simulations and in experiment, the voltage signal of a given shape is applied to the lead zirconate titanate actuators to excite acoustic wave, and the electrical signals collected from the lead zirconate titanate sensors mounted to the panel are used to study wave propagation in the sandwich panel. The results of simulation are shown to be in good agreement with the experimental results both before and after the impact. Properties of acoustic wave propagating in composite sandwich honeycomb panels are discussed.
The Utility of Intraoperative Ultrasound in Modified Radical Neck Dissection
Authors: Agcaoglu Orhan , Aliyev Shamil , Taskin Halit Eren , Aksoy Erol , Siperstein Allan , Berber Eren
Published: May 2013

Background. Although the value of surgeon-performed neck ultrasound (SPUS) for thyroid nodules has been validated, the utility of intraoperative ultrasound (US) in modified radical neck dissection (MRND) has not been reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to analyze the utility of intraoperative SPUS in assessing the completeness of MRND for thyroid cancer. Methods. Between 2007 and 2011, a total of 25 patients underwent MRND by 1 surgeon for thyroid cancer. All patients underwent intraoperative SPUS, which was repeated at the end of the neck dissection (completion US) to look for missed lymph nodes (LNs). Results. There were 10 male and 15 female patients. Pathology included 23 papillary and 2 medullary carcinomas. The number of LNs removed per case was 23 ± 2, and the number of positive was LNs 5 ± 1. In 4 (16%) cases, intraoperative US detected 7 residual LNs, which would have been missed, if completion US were not done. These missed LNs were located in low-level IV (3 nodes), high-level II (2 nodes), and posterior level V (2 nodes) and measured 1.4 ± 0.2 cm. At follow-up, recurrence was seen in 2 (8%) patients, including a superior mediastinal recurrence in a patient with tall cell cancer and a jugular LN recurrence at level II in another patient with papillary thyroid cancer. Conclusion. This pilot study shows that intraoperative SPUS can help assess the completeness of MRND. According to our results, intraoperative completion US identifies LNs missed by palpation 16% of the time.
Semi-occlusive dressing for the treatment of fingertip amputations with exposed bone: quantity and quality of soft-tissue regeneration
Authors: Hoigné D. , Hug U. , Schürch M. , Meoli M. , von Wartburg U.
Published: May 2013

Nineteen fingertip amputations with exposed bone were treated with a semi-occlusive dressing. The quantity and quality of the regenerated soft tissue was examined. In all 19 fingers there was sufficient uncomplicated healing such that secondary surgical procedures were not needed. At follow-up 6–18 months after the injury, soft tissue thickness around the bone of the distal phalanx measured 6.0 mm (SD 1.6) on the palmar aspect (opposite side 7.0 mm (SD 0.8)) and 4.2 mm (SD 1.7) distally (opposite side 4.5 mm (SD 0.8)). The two-point discrimination was 4 mm (SD 2) (opposite side 3 mm (SD 1)). The skin healed almost without scarring and the dermal ridges reformed. The regeneration of the soft tissue thickness to almost 90% of its former extent is higher than we expected.
The proximal and distal position of the radius relative to the ulna through a full range of elbow flexion and forearm rotation
Authors: Quigley R. J. , Robicheaux G. W. , Lee T. Q
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this study was to measure the position of the radius relative to the ulna through a complete range of elbow flexion and forearm rotation. Twenty cadaveric upper extremities were mounted on a testing jig that allowed simultaneous control of elbow flexion and forearm rotation. The longitudinal position of the radius relative to the ulna was measured using a three-dimensional digitizer at full pronation, mid-pronation (45°), neutral (0°), mid-supination (45°) and full supination at 10°, 30°, 60°, 90° and 120° of elbow flexion. Our results showed that the radius is located distally when in supination and is located more proximally as it is rotated into pronation. The longitudinal position of the radius changes over 9 mm when moving through a complete arc of forearm rotation. The angle of elbow flexion had a secondary effect on the longitudinal position of the radius, causing changes of less than 0.8 mm.
Investigating obesity risk-reduction behaviours and psychosocial factors in Chinese Americans
Authors: Liou Doreen , Bauer Kathleen , Bai Yeon
Published: May 2013

Aim:

The purpose of this research was to examine the attitudes, beliefs and behaviours related to obesity risk reduction in Chinese Americans.

Methods:

A questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample of 300 US-born and foreign-born Chinese Americans residing in the New York metropolitan area, ranging from 18 to 40 years of age. Obesity risk reduction behaviours and psychosocial variables derived from the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Health Belief Model were measured. Acculturation was assessed using a modified Suinn-Lew Asian Self-Identity Acculturation Scale. Frequency distributions were delineated and stepwise regression analyses were analysed for different acculturation groups.

Results:

65% of the respondents were female and the mean age of the sample was 26 years. Respondents indicated the most commonly practised behaviour to be eating home-cooked meals instead of restaurant-prepared foods. Perceived barriers to adopting obesity risk-reduction behaviours included convenience of consuming fast foods, cost, lack of time to prepare home-cooked meals, and the physical environment of unhealthy foods. In predicting intention to perform obesity risk-reduction behaviours, attitude was significant for ‘western-identified’ individuals. In ‘Asian-identified’ individuals, perceived behavioural control, self-efficacy and perceived benefits were salient.

Conclusions:

Nutrition educators working with Chinese Americans need to address self-efficacy in preparing plant-based, home-cooked meals and making healthy choices at fast-food restaurants with portion control. Concrete and perceived barriers such as lack of time and convenience need to be addressed in nutrition education interventions. Educators need to identify new channels and media outlets to disseminate practical, easy-to-implement behaviours for obesity risk reduction that are socially acceptable.
Disseminated Mycobacterium sherrisii Infection in a US-Born, HIV-Infected Patient
Authors: Lee Spencer M. , Myers Robert A. , Singh Karnail , Kansal Seema
Published: May 2013

Mycobacterium sherrisii was first described as a novel species in 2004 but recently has begun to be more formally recognized with the use of new sequencing techniques. There have only been about 10 cases reported internationally, and we report the first case of M sherrisii in the United States. The mycobacterium was isolated from acid-fast bacilli cultures of a specimen obtained from a bronchoalveolar lavage and blood in a newly diagnosed HIV-infected, US-born patient presenting with sepsis. The patient was started on streptomycin, ethambutol, azithromycin, and rifampin with an improved clinical course. This report indicates the clinical presentation along with the varying drug susceptibilities to the emerging M sherrisii.
Gain-of-function Lyn induces anemia: appropriate Lyn activity is essential for normal erythropoiesis and Epo receptor signaling
Authors: Slavova-Azmanova Neli S. , Kucera Nicole , Satiaputra Jiulia , Stone Leah , Magno Aaron , Maxwell Mhairi J. , Quilici Cathy , Erber Wendy , Klinken S. Peter , Hibbs Margaret L. , Ingley Evan
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Gain-of-function Lyn mice develop hemolytic anemia with acanthocyte red blood cells and display compensatory extramedullary erythropoiesis. Hyperactive Lyn notably alters Epo receptor signaling, particularly an Akt-FoxO3 pathway, enhancing viability and delaying differentiation.
The co-receptor BTLA negatively regulates human Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell proliferation: a potential way of immune escape for lymphoma cells
Authors: Gertner-Dardenne Julie , Fauriat Cyril , Orlanducci Florence , Thibult Marie-Laure , Pastor Sonia , Fitzgibbon Jude , Bouabdallah Reda , Xerri Luc , Olive Daniel
Published: May 2013

Key Points

BTLA-HVEM interaction negatively regulates the proliferation of LTγδ. BTLA-HVEM interaction appears as a new possible mechanism of immune escape by lymphoma cells.
Outcome of patients with hemoglobinopathies given either cord blood or bone marrow transplantation from an HLA-identical sibling
Authors: Locatelli Franco , Kabbara Nabil , Ruggeri Annalisa , Ghavamzadeh Ardeshir , Roberts Irene , Li Chi Kong , Bernaudin Françoise , Vermylen Christiane , Dalle Jean-Hugues , Stein Jerry , Wynn Robert , Cordonnier Catherine , Pinto Fernando , Angelucci Emanuele , Socié Gérard , Gluckman Eliane , Walters Mark C. , Rocha Vanderson
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Patients with thalassemia major or sickle cell disease had excellent outcomes after both CBT and BMT from an HLA-identical sibling. Related cord blood transplantation is a suitable transplant option for patients with hemoglobinopathies.
Perspectives and future directions for epigenetics in hematology
Authors: Goodell Margaret A. , Godley Lucy A.
Published: May 2013

Genetic analysis of hematologic malignancies over the past 5 years has revealed abundant mutations in epigenetic regulators in all classes of disorders. Here, we summarize the observations made within our review series on the role of epigenetics in hematology. We highlight the clinical implications of mutations in epigenetic regulators and outline what we envision are some of the major areas that merit future research. Recent findings may have immediate prognostic value, but also offer new targets for drug development. However, the pleiotropic action of these regulators indicates caution is warranted and argues for investment in understanding of their underlying mechanisms of action as we proceed to exploit these findings for the benefit of patients.
Results from a study using misoprostol for management of incomplete abortion in Vietnamese hospitals: implications for task shifting
Authors: Ngoc Nguyen Thi Nhu , Shochet Tara , Blum Jennifer , Hai Pham Thanh , Dung Duong Lan , Nhan Tran Thanh , Winikoff Beverly
Published: May 2013

Background

Complications following spontaneous or induced abortion are a major cause of maternal morbidity. To manage these complications, post-abortion care (PAC) services should be readily available and easy to access. Standard PAC treatment includes surgical interventions that are highly effective but require surgical providers and medical centers that have the necessary space and equipment. Misoprostol has been shown to be an effective alternative to surgical evacuation and can be offered by lower level clinicians. This study sought to assess whether 400 mcg sublingual misoprostol could effectively evacuate the uterus after incomplete abortion and to confirm its applicability for use at lower level settings.

Methods

All women presenting with incomplete abortion at one of three hospitals in Vietnam were enrolled. Providers were not asked to record if the abortion was spontaneous or induced. It is likely that all were spontaneous given the legal status and easy access to abortion services in Vietnam. Participants were given 400 mcg sublingual misoprostol and instructed to hold the pills under their tongue for 30 minutes and then swallow any remaining fragments. They were then asked to return one week later to confirm their clinical status. Study clinicians were instructed to confirm a complete expulsion clinically. All women were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding satisfaction with the treatment.

Results

Three hundred and two women were enrolled between September 2009 and May 2010. Almost all participants (96.3%) had successful completions using a single dose of 400 mcg misoprostol. The majority of women (87.2%) found the side effects to be tolerable or easily tolerable. Most women (84.3%) were satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment they received; only one was dissatisfied (0.3%). Nine out of ten women would select this method again and recommend it to a friend (91.0% and 90.0%, respectively).

Conclusions

This study confirms that 400 mcg sublingual misoprostol effectively evacuates the uterus for most women experiencing incomplete abortion. The high levels of satisfaction and side effect tolerability also attest to the ease of use of this method. From these data and given the international consensus around the effectiveness of misoprostol for incomplete abortion care, it seems timely that use of the drug for this indication be widely expanded both throughout Vietnam and wherever access to abortion care is limited.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00670761
Predictive value of preoperative serum CCL2, CCL18, and VEGF for the patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Wu Jianghong , Liu Xiaowen , Wang Yanong
Published: May 2013

Background

To investigate the expression of chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), chemokine ligand 18 (CCL18), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in peripheral blood of patients with gastric cancer and their correlation with presence of malignancy and disease progression.

Methods

Sixty patients with pathological proved gastric cancer were prospectively included into study. The levels of CCL2, CCL18, and VEGF in peripheral blood were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbentassay (ELISA). Peripheral blood from 20 healthy people was examined as control.

Results

The preoperative serum levels of CCL2, CCL18 and VEGF in gastric cancer patients were significantly higher than that of controls (P <0.001, P <0.001, and P <0.001, respectively). ROC curve analysis showed that with a cut-off value of ≥1272.8, the VEGF*CCL2 predicted the presence of gastric cancer with 83% sensitivity and 80% specificity. Preoperative serum CCL2 was significantly correlated to N stage (P =0.040); CCL18 associated with N stage (P =0.002), and TNM stage (P =0.002); VEGF correlated to T stage (P =0.000), N stage (P =0.015), and TNM stage (P =0.000).

Conclusion

Preoperative serum levels of CCL2 and VEGF could play a crucial role in predicting the presence and progression of gastric cancer.
Disturbance observer based "Equation missing" control for flexible spacecraft with time-varying input delay
Authors: Zhang Ran , Li Tao , Guo Lei
Published: May 2013

In this paper, a composite disturbance-observer-based control (DOBC) and

H
∞

control scheme is applied to solve the spacecraft attitude control with time-varying input delay. Compared with some existing results, distinct features of the proposed method are that the delay-dependent disturbance observer and

H
∞

controller are used to estimate and compensate the main disturbance caused by flexible appendages and to attenuate exogenous bounded disturbances with attenuation level, respectively. The proposed design is obtained by combining the augmented Lyapunov functional with linear matrix inequality technique. The effectiveness of the proposed design method is illustrated via a numerical example.
Development of measurement system for task oriented step tracking using laser range finder
Authors: Matsumura Tetsuya , Moriguchi Toshiki , Yamada Minoru , Uemura Kazuki , Nishiguchi Shu , Aoyama Tomoki , Takahashi Masaki
Published: May 2013

Background

Avoiding a fall requires fast and appropriate step responses, stepping speed as a fall risk indicator has only been assessed in older adults. We have developed a new measurement system that applies a laser range finder to assess temporal and spatial parameters of stepping performance such as step speed, length, and accuracy. This measurement system has higher portability, lower cost, and can analyze a larger number of temporal and spatial parameters than existing measurement systems. The aim of this study was to quantify the system for measuring reaction time and stride duration by compared to that obtained using a force platform.

Methods

Ten healthy young adults performed steps in response to visual cues. The measurement system applied a laser range finder to measure the position and velocity of the center of each leg and of both legs.

We applied the developed measurement system to the rhythmic stepping exercise and measured reaction time and stride duration. In addition, the foot-off time and foot-contact time were quantified using the measurement system, and compared to the foot-off time and foot-contact time quantified using a force platform.

Results

We confirmed that the measurement system can detect where a participant stood and measured reaction time and stride duration.

Remarkable consistency was observed in the test-retest reliability of the foot-off time and foot-contact time quantified by the measurement system (p < 0.001). The foot-off time and foot-contact time quantified by the measurement system were highly correlated with the foot-off time and foot-contact time quantified by the force platform (reaction time: r = 0.997, stride duration: r = 0.879; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The new measurement system provided a valid measure of temporal step parameters in young healthy adults.

The validity of the system to measure reaction time and stride duration was evaluated, and confirmed by applying to the rhythmic stepping exercise.
Longitudinal, genome-scale analysis of DNA methylation in twins from birth to 18 months of age reveals rapid epigenetic change in early life and pair-specific effects of discordance
Authors: Martino David , Loke Yuk Jin , Gordon Lavinia , Ollikainen Miina , Cruickshank Mark N , Saffery Richard , Craig Jeffrey M
Published: May 2013

Background

The extent to which development- and age-associated epigenetic changes are influenced by genetic, environmental and stochastic factors remains to be discovered. Twins provide an ideal model with which to investigate these influences but previous cross-sectional twin studies provide contradictory evidence of within-pair epigenetic drift over time. Longitudinal twin studies can potentially address this discrepancy.

Results

In a pilot, genome-scale study of DNA from buccal epithelium, a relatively homogeneous tissue, we show that one-third of the CpGs assayed show dynamic methylation between birth and 18 months. Although all classes of annotated genomic regions assessed show an increase in DNA methylation over time, probes located in intragenic regions, enhancers and low-density CpG promoters are significantly over-represented, while CpG islands and high-CpG density promoters are depleted among the most dynamic probes. Comparison of co-twins demonstrated that within-pair drift in DNA methylation in our cohort is specific to a subset of pairs, who show more differences at 18 months. The rest of the pairs show either minimal change in methylation discordance, or more similar, converging methylation profiles at 18 months. As with age-associated regions, sites that change in their level of within-pair discordance between birth and 18 months are enriched in genes involved in development, but the average magnitude of change is smaller than for longitudinal change.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that DNA methylation in buccal epithelium is influenced by non-shared stochastic and environmental factors that could reflect a degree of epigenetic plasticity within an otherwise constrained developmental program.
Survey of European clinical geneticists on awareness, experiences and attitudes towards direct-to-consumer genetic testing
Authors: Howard Heidi Carmen , Borry Pascal
Published: May 2013

Background

The advent of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing (GT) has sparked a number of debates regarding the scientific validity of tests, their broad health and ethical implications for society as well as their legal status. To date, relatively few empirical studies have been published regarding this phenomenon. We conducted a survey of European clinical geneticists to gauge their awareness of, experiences with, and attitudes towards DTC GT.

Methods

We invited 300 clinical geneticists from 28 European countries to complete an online questionnaire. Statistical analyses of closed-ended questions were performed using the STATISTICA software package. Answers to open-ended questions were analysed for recurring themes.

Results

One hundred and thirty-one clinical geneticists answered our survey (response rate, 44%). Eighty-six percent (110/128) of respondents were aware of DTC GT, and over one-third had been contacted by at least one patient regarding these services. The majority (84%) of respondents did not agree with telephone medical supervision outside of an established doctor-patient relationship. The majority of clinical geneticists also found it unacceptable to provide non-face-to-face medical supervision for: (i) a presymptomatic test for a condition with very high penetrance; (ii) a predictive test for a condition that has a 'medium' penetrance of 50% to 60%; and (iii) carrier testing. For conditions that are neither treatable nor preventable and for disorders with serious health consequences, clinical geneticists were almost unanimous in expressing the unacceptability of offering such genetic tests outside of the traditional healthcare setting, without an established physician-patient relationship and without face-to-face medical supervision.

Conclusion

A high percentage of European clinical geneticists are aware of DTC GT and the majority do not agree with the model of provision used by many commercial companies for certain severe or actionable health conditions. Despite this disagreement with the DTC model of provision, >85% of respondents said that they would offer genetic counselling to patients who asked for a consultation after having undergone DTC genetic testing. The understanding of the views and opinions of this expert stakeholder group should be considered in the attempts to shape responsible policy and guidelines for these services.
The enigma of the lower gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT)
Authors: Butler John E , Sinkora Marek
Published: May 2013

Artiodactyls possess GALT that appears in fetal life and is located at the extreme end of the ileum. These IPP contain mostly B cells and involute early in postnatal life. Rabbits have a similarly located lymphoid organ, called the sacculus rotundus. Studies in sheep and rabbits have led to the concept that the lower hindgut GALT represents primary lymphoid tissue for B cells and is necessary for normal B cell development, analogous to the bursa of Fabricius. This review traces the history of the observations and theories that have led to the existing concept concerning the role of lower GALT. We then review recent data from piglets with resected IPP that challenges the concept that the IPP is primary B cell lymphoid tissue and that artiodactyls and rabbits are members of the GALT group in the same context as gallinaceous birds. Eliminating the IPP as the primary lymphoid tissue for B cells leads to the hypothesis that the IPP acts as first-responder mucosal lymphoid tissue.
Current clinical immunotherapy targets in advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: McCarthy Fiona , Roshani Rozita , Steele Jeremy , Hagemann Thorsten
Published: May 2013

NSCLC remains one of the most challenging malignancies to treat. Despite the introduction of innovative therapies over the last decade, the 5-year survival of NSCLC is still <20%. Clearly, novel, therapeutic approaches are required. Targeting the immune system to derive meaningful clinical benefit has proved successful in various malignancies in recent years. As a result, there is renewed focus on the use of immunotherapy in lung cancer. In this review, we provide an overview of current immune-modulatory approaches in the treatment of NSCLC.
IRAK4 kinase activity is not required for induction of endotoxin tolerance but contributes to TLR2-mediated tolerance
Authors: Xiong Yanbao , Pennini Meghan , Vogel Stefanie N , Medvedev Andrei E
Published: May 2013

Prior exposure to LPS induces “endotoxin tolerance” that reprograms TLR4 responses to subsequent LPS challenge by altering expression of inflammatory mediators. Endotoxin tolerance is thought to limit the excessive cytokine storm and prevent tissue damage during sepsis but renders the host immunocompromised and susceptible to secondary infections. Tolerance initiated via one TLR can affect cellular responses to challenge via the same TLR (“homotolerance”) or through different TLRs (“heterotolerance”). IRAK4, an essential component of the MyD88-dependent pathway, functions as a kinase and an adapter, activating subsets of divergent signaling pathways. In this study, we addressed mechanistically the role of IRAK4 kinase activity in TLR4- and TLR2-induced tolerance using macrophages from WT versus IRAK4KDKI mice. Whereas IRAK4 kinase deficiency decreased LPS signaling, it did not prevent endotoxin tolerance, as endotoxin pretreatment of WT and IRAK4KDKI macrophages inhibited LPS-induced MAPK phosphorylation, degradation of IκB-α and recruitment of p65 to the TNF-α promoter, expression of proinflammatory cytokines, and increased levels of A20 and IRAK-M. Pretreatment of WT macrophages with Pam3Cys, a TLR2–TLR1 agonist, ablated p-p38 and p-JNK in response to challenge with Pam3Cys and LPS, whereas IRAK4KDKI macrophages exhibited attenuated TLR2-elicited homo- and heterotolerance at the level of MAPK activation. Thus, IRAK4 kinase activity is not required for the induction of endotoxin tolerance but contributes significantly to TLR2-elicited homo- and heterotolerance.
NK cells are necessary for recovery of corneal CD11c+ dendritic cells after epithelial abrasion injury
Authors: Gao Yuan , Li Zhijie , Hassan Nida , Mehta Pooja , Burns Alan R , Tang Xin , Smith C Wayne
Published: May 2013

Mechanisms controlling CD11c+ MHCII+ DCs during corneal epithelial wound healing were investigated in a murine model of corneal abrasion. Selective depletion of NKp46+ CD3− NK cells that normally migrate into the cornea after epithelial abrasion resulted in >85% reduction of the epithelial CD11c+ MHCII+ DCs, normally present during and after epithelial wound closure. Transfer (i.v.) of spleen NK cells into NK cell-depleted mice significantly restored levels of corneal epithelial DCs (P<0.01). Immigrated NK cells were predominately positive for IFN-γ, and topical corneal anti-IFN-γ reduced epithelial DCs by 79% (P<0.01). IFN-γ−/− mice had 69% fewer DCs than WT controls (P<0.01), and topical rIFN-γ applied to NK cell-depleted corneas increased epithelial DCs significantly (P<0.01). The contribution of ICAM-1, an adhesion molecule involved in leukocyte migration, expressed on healing corneal epithelium, was evaluated. ICAM-1−/− mice exhibited >70% reduction in epithelial DC recovery in the first 48 h after epithelial abrasion (P<0.01). These interventions reveal an early turnover of DCs in the epithelium after injury, and ICAM-1, NK cells, and IFN-γ are necessary for the immigration phase of this turnover.
Interpretation of self-potential anomaly over a 2D inclined structure using very fast simulated-annealing global optimization — An insight about ambiguity
Authors: Sharma Shashi Prakash , Biswas Arkoprovo
Published: May 2013

A very fast simulated-annealing (VFSA) global optimization procedure is developed for the interpretation of self-potential (SP) anomaly measured over a 2D inclined sheet-type structure. Model parameters such as electric current dipole density ([Formula: see text]), horizontal and vertical locations of the center of the causative body ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]), half-width ([Formula: see text]), and polarization/inclination angle ([Formula: see text]) of the sheet are optimized. VFSA optimization yields a large number of well-fitting solutions in a vast model space. Even though the assumed model space (minimum and maximum limits for each model parameter) is appropriate, it has been observed that models obtained by the VFSA process in the predefined model space could also be geologically erroneous. This offers new insight into the interpretation of self-potential data. Our optimization results indicate that there exist at least two sets of solutions that can fit the observed data equally well. The first set of solutions represents a local optimum and is geologically inappropriate. The second set of solutions represents the actual subsurface structure. The mean model estimated from the latter models represents the global solution. The efficacy of the developed approach has been demonstrated using various synthetic examples. Field data from the Surda area of Rakha Mines, India and the Bavarian woods, Germany are also interpreted. The computation time for finding this versatile solution is very short (52 s on a simple PC) and the proposed approach is found to be more advantageous than other approaches.
Chemerin Suppresses Ovarian Follicular Development and Its Potential Involvement in Follicular Arrest in Rats Treated Chronically With Dihydrotestosterone
Authors: Kim Ji Young , Xue Kai , Cao Mingju , Wang Qi , Liu Jia-yin , Leader Arthur , Han Jae Yong , Tsang Benjamin K.
Published: May 2013

In the present study, we have investigated the cellular mechanisms of androgen-induced antral follicular growth arrest and the possible involvement of chemerin and its receptor chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1) in this process, using a chronically androgenized rat model. We hypothesize that hyperandrogenism induces antral follicle growth arrest via the action of chemerin and ovarian structural changes, resulting from granulosa cell and oocyte apoptosis and theca cell survival. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) treatment resulted in increased expression of chemerin and CMKLR1 in antral follicles, absence of corpus luteum, and increased atypical follicles. Addition of chemerin to follicle cultures induced granulosa cell apoptosis and suppressed basal, FSH- and growth differentiation factor-9-stimulated follicular growth. DHT down-regulated aromatase expression and increased active caspase-3 content and DNA fragmentation in granulosa cells in vivo. These changes were accompanied by higher phosphatase and tensin homolog and lower phospho-Akt (Ser473) content in antral follicles and higher calpain expression and down-regulation of cytoskeletal proteins in atypical follicles, which were constituted predominantly of theca cells. DHT also activated granulosa cell caspase-3, decreased X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, and phospho-Akt contents and induced apoptosis in vitro, responses readily attenuated by forced X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein expression. These findings are consistent with our hypothesis that antral follicular growth arrest in DHT-treated rats results from increased chemerin expression and action, as well as changes in follicular cell fate and structure, which are a consequence of dysregulated interactions of pro-survival and pro-apoptotic modulators in a cell-specific manner. Our observations suggest that this chronically androgenized rat model may be useful for studies on the long-term effects of androgens on folliculogenesis and may have implications for the female reproductive disorders associated with hyperandrogenism.
Neither Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) or STAT5 Signaling Pathways Are Required for Leptin's Effects on Fertility in Mice
Authors: Singireddy Amritha V. , Inglis Megan A. , Zuure Wieteke A. , Kim Joon S. , Anderson Greg M.
Published: May 2013

The hormone leptin is critical for the regulation of energy balance and fertility. The long-form leptin receptor (LepR) regulates multiple intracellular signaling cascades, including the classic Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways. Previous studies have shown that deletion of STAT3 or the closely related STAT5 from the brain results in an obese phenotype, but their roles in fertility regulation are not clear. This study tested whether STAT3 and STAT5 pathways of leptin signaling are required for fertility, and whether absence of one pathway might be compensated for by the other in a redundant manner. A Cre-loxP approach was used to generate 3 models of male and female transgenic mice with LepR-specific deletion of STAT3, STAT5, or both STAT3 and STAT5. Body weight, puberty onset, estrous cyclicity, and fertility were measured in all knockout (KO) mice and their control littermates. Knocking out STAT3 or both STAT3 and 5 from LepR expressing cells, but not STAT5 alone, led to significant increase in body weight. All STAT3 and STAT5 single KO mice exhibited normal puberty onset and subsequent fertility compared to their control littermates. Surprisingly, all STAT3 and STAT5 double KO mice also exhibited normal puberty onset, estrous cyclicity, and fertility, although they had severely disrupted body weight regulation. These results suggest that, although STAT3 signaling is crucial for body weight regulation, neither STAT3 nor STAT5 is required for the regulation of fertility by leptin. It remains to be determined what other signaling molecules mediate this effect of leptin, and whether they interact in a redundant manner.
Penile cellulitis due to community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in an HIV-positive man
Authors: Sturgiss E A , Bowden F J
Published: May 2013

Summary:

This is a study of aggressive penile cellulitis in an HIV-positive man due to community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Discussion focuses on the importance of recognizing this pathogen in the sexual health setting and possible causes of penile cellulitis.
Linear array genotyping and hybrid capture II assay in detecting human papillomavirus genotypes in women referred for colposcopy due to abnormal Papanicolaou smear
Authors: Monsonego Joseph , Pollini Giuseppe , Evrard Marie José , Sednaoui Patrice , Monfort Laura , Quinzat Dominique , Dachez Roger , Syrjänen Kari
Published: May 2013

Summary:

The main objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotyping in women referred for colposcopy due to abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) smear. A series of 248 women referred for colposcopy due to an abnormal Pap smear were analysed with the Roche Linear Array HPV genotyping test detecting 37 most frequent HPV types, and compared with hybrid capture II (HCII) assay for oncogenic (high-risk [HR] HPV) types as well as for p16INK4a expression using immunocytochemistry. All tests were performed in cervical samples collected in PreservCyt® liquid media for liquid-based cytology (ThinPrep), and colposcopic biopsy and/or loop electro excision procedure cone biopsy was used as the gold standard. HPV16 was the single most frequent genotype (29/258; 11.7%), followed by HPV51 (4.4%), HPV66 (3.6%), HPV42, 52 and 56 (3.2% for all). Linear array genotyping test significantly predicts both abnormal colposcopy (odds ratio [OR] = 9.0; 3.12-25.93), high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (OR = 9.6; 1.26-74.17) and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 3+ (OR = 29.3; 3.95-218.06). In detecting CIN3, linear array was equivalent (97.6%) to colposcopy in sensitivity (SE), both being superior to HCII (92.7%). Concordance between linear array and HCII was moderate (Cohen's kappa κ = 0.547; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.435-659). Specificity (SP) and positive predictive value (PPV) of linear array were significantly improved, if only HPV16 genotype was considered. Performance in the best balance is obtained, when linear array and colposcopy are combined, giving 82.9% SE, 93.9% SP, 73.9% PPV and 96.3% negative predictive value (NPV) as predictor of CIN3+ (OR 74.5; 95% CI: 27.36-202.72). In conclusion, linear array for HR-HPV is a highly sensitive test (97.6%) with high NPV (98.9%) in detecting CIN3+ lesions. HPV16 genotyping alone significantly improves SP and PPV of this test in management of women with abnormal cytology.
An audit of baseline HIV-1 genotypic resistance testing in a UK provincial city
Authors: Street E J , Armstrong N R , Monteiro E F , Hale A D
Published: May 2013

Summary:

Baseline HIV-1 resistance testing is recommended in the 2005 BHIVA treatment guidelines. We compared the practice in our clinic with these guidelines. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of transmitted resistance in all antiretroviral therapy-naïve patients identified from our virology resistance test database. In 2006, 93% of all newly diagnosed patients had a baseline HIV-1 genotypic resistance test performed. The estimated prevalence of transmitted resistance was 8% in newly diagnosed patients and 7% overall with the majority in subtype B. These findings are in keeping with nationally reported data. It was of concern that we also identified a number of patients who had tested negative in the previous year.
A Review on Neural Network Models for Wind Speed Prediction
Authors: Sheela K. Gnana , Deepa S.N.
Published: May 2013

This paper presents review of neural network models for wind speed prediction during the past 15 years. Wind energy is one of renewable energy system with lowest cost of electricity production. The prediction of wind speed is recognized as a major contribution of wind farm. Wind speed prediction has many applications in Military, Air traffic control and Ship navigation etc. The prediction of wind speed depends on meteorological variables such as pressure, temperature, humidity and rainfall etc. The aim is to identify the importance, advantages and comparison of different neural network models of wind speed prediction. This review is to be useful for researchers working in this field and identify performance of neural network models. It is very helpful to the wind farm owners to understand the current wind prediction model capabilities and give an idea which model will be suitable for predicting the wind speed at their wind farms.