bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Between socio-spatial and urban justice: Rawls’ principles of justice in the 2011 Israeli Protest Movement
Authors: Alfasi Nurit , Fenster Tovi
Published: February 2014

The occupy movement of summer 2011 provides an opportunity to examine practical and theoretical implications of the notion of planning justice and human rights. Analyzing the discourse by activists in a planning team associated with the Israeli Protest Movement reveals inner conflicts and debates regarding the meanings of justice and human rights in planning. The discourse exposes an ongoing rift between spatial professionals (mainly geographers, planners, and architects) and subfields (municipal and governmental bodies, nongovernmental organizations, and academia) related to applying ideas of just planning in the Israeli context. Specifically, two opposing schemas of planning justice appear—that of socio-spatial justice and urban justice. A further investigation links each schema with a different principle of justice, as defined in Rawls’ Theory of Justice: The first schema is associated with the principle of difference and the second with the principle of fair equality of opportunity. Together, the unsettled conflicts hint at an inconsistency occurring when the theory is interpreted in practice.
Design of a highly efficient LED-based bicycle head lamp with additional ground illumination
Authors: Cai J-Y , Lo Y-C , Feng S-T , Sun C-C
Published: February 2014

A novel design of phosphor-converted, white light emitting diode-based bicycle head lamp producing sufficient illuminance on the target to meet the K-mark regulations and additional illumination on the ground is proposed and demonstrated. The phosphor-converted, white light emitting diode has a power demand of 2.5 W, while the novel design offers a maximum illuminance of 30 lux at the HV point, and illuminances larger than 3 lux across the first 7 m on the ground. The optical utilisation factor for the target illumination is 30% and for the ground is 44%. It means that around 74% of the luminous flux emitted by the phosphor-converted, white, light emitting diodes is utilised. This novel and highly efficient bicycle head lamp provides safer illumination for bicycle riders.
Action Learning Coaching
Authors: O’Neil Judy , Marsick Victoria J.
Published: February 2014

The Problem

Action learning (AL) continues to be an important learning and development approach within organizations. Many successful AL programs use AL coaches to help facilitate the program and the learning that can occur within such programs. How might AL coaching be similar to, or different from, other types of coaching, and how might AL coaching be most effectively practiced?

The Solution

A review of the conceptual, theoretical, and empirical research on AL coaching will address these questions and will enable a comparison of AL coaching and other types of coaching. We draw upon the research to demonstrate effective practice and the learning that can result from AL interventions.

The Stakeholders

AL is used globally for learning, development, and change, and therefore, many organizational leaders are interested in the effective practice of AL and AL coaching. These leaders, human resource development (HRD) professionals, executives, internal and external coaches will benefit from this article.
The Impact of Enhanced Programming on Aging in Place for People With Dementia in Assisted Living
Authors: Hyde Joan , Perez Rosa , Doyle Patrick J. , Forester Brent P. , Whitfield Theodore H.
Published: February 2014

Background:

Assisted living (AL) is a growing and operationally diverse option in our nation's long-term care system. Many consumers view AL communities as a viable option to receive needed services and age in place. However, little is known about the factors that influence residents’ ability to age in place when experiencing cognitive decline.

Objective:

To estimate the association of resident and site characteristics to length of stay, reason for leaving and destination for residents with dementia in assisted living. In particular, this study sought to assess the impact of an ‘Enhanced’ Program intended to facilitate aging in place.

Method:

Data were gathered from a retrospective evaluation of residents’ clinical records (N = 312) in five dementia-specific ALs (3 with robust enhanced programs) in the Northeastern United States.

Results:

The time to 50% survival for the full cohort (N = 312) was 20.2 months. Both age at move-in and gender were statistically significant predictors of length of stay. Sites with robust support for aging in place exhibited a statistically significant longer length of stay compared to sites with limited support. Of the residents who left or died (N = 165) nearly one quarter (24%) were able to stay until the end of their lives, while 52% moved to a nursing home, primarily because of family, financial, or medical concerns. Few residents left these settings because of behavioral problems. Conclusion: AL sites with a more robust commitment to an aging in place model and a willingness to provide palliative care demonstrated a significantly longer length of stay.
Empirically Supported Trauma Treatment for an Adult Latino Man Diagnosed With PTSD
Authors: López Cristina M. , Shealy Kristen M. , Rheingold Alyssa A.
Published: February 2014

Treatment initiation and engagement of clients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be challenging due to early treatment dropout when a client with PTSD is unwilling to confront feared trauma-related stimuli and experience anxious arousal during exposure. Increased attention to these engagement issues is especially warranted with traditionally underserved populations (i.e., ethnic minorities, low socioeconomic status, rural residence). This case study describes Victor, a 34-year-old Latino man victimized during a robbery in the rural Southeastern United States, and explains the successful cultural modifications made to Victor’s 10 sessions of prolonged exposure (PE) therapy. Telemedicine, or conducting therapy sessions over a secure Internet connection, was used to overcome barriers associated with rural clients with limited access to specialized and bilingual services. Victor showed marked reductions in PTSD symptoms after completion of PE via telemedicine. This article explains the client’s presenting complaints, history, assessment, barriers to care, cultural modifications, and treatment implications.
Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors of Diabetic Foot Ulcer With Multidrug-Resistant Organism Infection
Authors: Ji Xiaoyan , Jin Peng , Chu Yuejie , Feng Shuhong , Wang Penghua
Published: February 2014

The objective was to determine multidrug-resistant organisms’ (MDROs) profile in diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), antibiotic resistance of MDROs, and to find the potential risk factors for infection with MDROs. In 157 patients with DFU admitted to Tianjin Metabolic Disease Hospital, China, from January 2011 to January 2012, microbiological specimens were taken on admission. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the infection of MDROs. Potential risk factors for MDRO-positive specimens were examined using univariate and multivariate analyses. Seventy-eight MDRO strains were isolated from patients in the MDRO+ group, among which the top 3 were Staphylococcus aureus (16.7%), Enterobacter spp (16.7%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15.4%). Most of the MDROs were resistant to at least 8 kinds of commonly used antibiotics. Gram-negative MDROs showed 23% to 50% resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. The resistant rates of Gram-positive MDROs to fluoroquinolone were more than 70%; penicillin and semisynthetic penicillin were 57% to 100% resistant. Previous hospitalization (odds ratio [OR] = 3.000; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.100-8.182; P = .032), previous duration of antibiotic therapy (OR = 1.078; 95% CI = 1.001-1.160; P = .046), ulcer type (OR = 7.185; 95% CI = 2.115-24.408; P = .002), ulcer size (OR = 1.403; 95% CI = 1.042-1.888; P = .026), and osteomyelitis (OR = 3.390; 95% CI = 1.178-9.756; P = .024) were associated with MDRO infection in patients with DFU.
WW domain-containing oxidoreductase’s role in myriad cancers: Clinical significance and future implications
Authors: Gardenswartz Aliza , Aqeilan Rami I
Published: February 2014

The WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) gene, encodes a tumor suppressor located on 16q23.1, spanning FRA16D, one of the most active common fragile sites in the human genome, that is altered in numerous types of cancer. WWOX’s alteration in these myriad cancers is due to disparate mechanisms including loss of heterozygosity, homozygous deletion and epigenetic changes. In vitro, WWOX has been found to be reduced or absent in numerous cancer cell lines and WWOX restoration has been found to inhibit tumor cell growth and invasion. Wwox knockout mice developed femoral focal lesions resembling osteosarcomas within one month of their life and aging Wwox heterozygous mice have an increased incidence of spontaneous lung and mammary tumors as well as B-cell lymphomas. We herein review WWOX’s role that has been unearthed thus far in different types of malignancies, its clinical significance and future implications.
Percutaneous Thrombolysis of Acute-On-Chronic Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis After Previous Insertion of an Adams-DeWeese Clip
Authors: O’Donnell Mark E. , Coan Kathryn E. , Naidu Sailendra G. , Shamoun Fadi E. , Money Samuel R.
Published: February 2014

We describe the successful percutaneous treatment of acute-on-chronic IVC thrombosis 30 years following previous placement of Adams-DeWeese clip.
Facilitating Democracy in a Testing Culture
Authors: Bergmark Ulrika , Salopek Michelle , Kawai Roi , Lane-Myler Jennifer
Published: February 2014

In 2010, Principal Kirk introduced Small Group Meeting (SGM) at Hillcrest Elementary. SGMs are multiage student groupings who meet with school faculty once a month to work on community building, service-learning projects, and advising. Many teachers liked the SGMs, some felt they needed more time to prepare, and others felt it was a waste of time. The case raises the questions: How can school leaders facilitate teacher autonomy and help push the learning community toward a common vision? If a leader has a strong vision, will teachers’ voices always be stifled? When introducing new initiatives like SGMs, what is the best pace to proceed? The case targets graduate classes in educational leadership and administration as well as professional development of leaders of different educational settings.
Organomodification of Indian bentonite clay and its influence on fire behavior of nanoclay/vinylester composites
Authors: N Raghavendra , HN Narasimha Murthy , KR Vishnu Mahesh , R Sridhar , M Krishna
Published: February 2014

This article reports the organomodification of Indian bentonite clay with three modifiers and the fire behavior of organomodified Indian bentonite clay/vinylester/glass nanocomposites. Indian bentonite (Na-IB) clay was organomodified using hexadimethyl ammonium bromide (HDTMA-Br), tetra- n-butylammonium bromide (TBA-Br) and triphenyl methyl phosphonium bromide (TPP-Br) by varying the cation exchange capacity. Basal spacing of 34 Å was observed in Na-IB modified with HDTMA-Br (HDTMABr-IB) followed by 28 Å in Na-IB modified with TPP-Br (TPPBr-IB) and 26 Å in Na-IB modified with TBA-Br (TBABr-IB). Fourier transform infrared spectra of HDTMABr-IB confirmed the attachment of functional groups, its zeta potential increased from −36.34 to 5.35 mV indicating greater surface potential and thermogravimetric analysis showed greater weight loss confirming Na+ ion exchange with alkyl amines. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis showed compositional changes between modified and unmodified clay with the presence of 37.03% carbon in the HDTMABr-IB. Horizontal and vertical burning rates of vinylester/glass composites decreased with the addition of HDTMABr-IB. Limiting oxygen index increased by 40% with the addition of 5 wt% HDTMABr-IB to vinylester/glass.
A new fault tree analysis approach based on imprecise reliability model
Authors: Liu Zheng , Li Yan-Feng , He Li-Ping , Yang Yuan-Jian , Huang Hong-Zhong
Published: February 2014

Fault tree analysis is a powerful and computationally efficient technique for safety analysis and reliability prediction. It decomposes an undesired failure into multiple possible root causes by constructing a sub-event tree and spreading it into basic events. Classical reliability theory using probability theory to quantify the uncertainties of basic events encounters many challenges when failure data are limited. In this case, uncertainty quantification should be carried out based on subjective information, such as experts’ assessment or engineers’ experience. As a generalization of probability theory, imprecise probability theory can quantify subjective information as the upper and lower expectations or previsions. In this article, a fault tree analysis algorithm incorporating subjective information into imprecise reliability models of basic events is proposed to calculate the failure interval of lubricating oil warning system.
Partial trapeziectomy and pyrocarbon interpositional arthroplasty for trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis: results after minimum 2 years of follow-up
Authors: Mariconda M. , Russo S. , Smeraglia F. , Busco G.
Published: February 2014

A prospective study was undertaken to assess the outcomes of a series of patients treated using pyrocarbon implant arthroplasty after partial trapeziectomy for trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis. We analysed the results of this procedure in 27 trapeziometacarpal joints of 25 patients. The mean follow-up interval was 34 months (range 26–52). The study showed that pyrocarbon interpositional arthroplasty provided excellent pain relief and high patient satisfaction. Overall function, according to disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score, improved from 48 points preoperatively to 14 points at the last follow-up assessment. Key pinch strength recorded in the operated hands was comparable with the results obtained in the contralateral hand and in healthy individuals from the same population. No further operations were performed in the study group. Partial trapeziectomy with pyrocarbon arthroplasty may prove to be a successful option for the treatment of trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis. Further long-term comparative studies are warranted.
Depression and cardiovascular disease in women: is there a common immunological basis? A theoretical synthesis
Authors: Wright Lauren , Simpson William , Van Lieshout Ryan J. , Steiner Meir
Published: February 2014

Clinical studies have established an inherent comorbidity between depression and the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, this comorbidity seems to be more amplified in women than in men. To further investigate this comorbidity, a thorough literature review was conducted on studies from 1992 to date. The PubMed database was accessed using the keywords: cardiovascular disease, inflammation, depression, and sex differences. Both human and animal studies were considered. This review takes the standpoint that depression and CVD are both inflammatory disorders, and that their co-occurrence may be related to how the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, serotonergic transmission and circulation, and the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system via angiotensin II are affected by the excess secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. More recently, preliminary research attributes this systemic inflammation to a global deficiency in CD4+CD25+FOXP3 regulatory T cells. 17-β estradiol and progesterone mediated modulation of cytokine secretion may partially explain the sex differences observed. These hormones and reproductive events associated with hormonal fluctuations are discussed in depth, including the analysis of perinatal models of depression and CVD, including preeclampsia. However, as evidenced by this review, there is a need for mechanistic research in humans to truly understand the nature and directionality of the relationship between depression and CVD.
The Etiology of Femoroacetabular Impingement
Authors: Chaudhry Harman , Ayeni Olufemi R.
Published: February 2014

Context:

Several risk factors may cause femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Knowledge of causation would identify patients for early intervention, prior to the development of painful intra-articular damage.

Data Sources:

PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and related article reference lists were screened for relevant studies published between January 2000 and December 2013.

Study Selection:

Inclusion criteria were (1) etiology of FAI, (2) original FAI clinical data, and (3) English language. Case reports of fewer than 3 patients were excluded.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

In all, 754 studies were screened, with 18 meeting the eligibility criteria. There were 13 comparative observational studies and 5 case series. The studies pertained to intrinsic patient factors (n = 2), activity/developmental factors (n = 8), hip disease (n = 5), postsurgical changes (n = 2), and malunion after hip fracture (n = 1).

Conclusion:

A combination of intrinsic patient and developmental factors, activities involving repetitive hip motion, pediatric hip disease, and hip-related surgical procedures may contribute to the development of FAI.
Experience with intravenous ferric carboxymaltose in patients with iron deficiency anemia
Authors: Bregman David B. , Goodnough Lawrence T.
Published: February 2014

Erythropoiesis may be limited by absolute or functional iron deficiency or when chronic inflammatory conditions lead to iron sequestration. Intravenous iron may be indicated when oral iron cannot address the deficiency. Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is a nondextran iron preparation recently approved in the United States for intravenous treatment of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in adult patients with intolerance or unsatisfactory response to oral iron or with nondialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease. The full dose is two administrations of up to 750 mg separated by at least 7 days (up to 1500 mg total). FCM can be injected in 7–8 min or diluted in saline for slower infusion. The efficacy and safety of this dose was established in two prospective trials that randomized over 3500 subjects, 1775 of whom received FCM. One trial showed similar efficacy of FCM to an approved intravenous iron regimen (1000 mg of iron sucrose) in 2500 subjects with chronic kidney disease and additional cardiovascular risk factors. The other trial showed superior efficacy of FCM to oral iron in subjects with IDA due to various etiologies (e.g. gastrointestinal or uterine bleeding). In these trials, there was no significant difference between FCM and comparator with respect to an independently adjudicated composite safety endpoint, including death, myocardial infarction, or stroke. A database of 5799 subjects exposed to FCM provided a safety profile acceptable for regulatory approval. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that the transient, asymptomatic reduction in serum phosphate observed following FCM administration results from induction of fibroblast growth factor 23, which in turn induces renal phosphate excretion. An elevated hepcidin level may identify patients with IDA who will not respond to oral iron but will respond to FCM. The ability to administer FCM in two rapid injections or infusions will likely be viewed favorably by patients and healthcare providers.
Antipsychotic drugs in pregnancy: a review of their maternal and fetal effects
Authors: Galbally Megan , Snellen Martien , Power Josephine
Published: February 2014

Understanding the risks of antipsychotic medication use in pregnancy is becoming an important clinical concern given the evidence of their increasing rate of prescription in the general population for a range of disorders. Despite antipsychotics being amongst the earliest of psychotropic medications to be introduced, the evidence for their effects secondary to pregnancy exposure is extremely limited. While this review does not identify clear evidence for a risk of malformation, there is evidence for risks associated with pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Studies identified found risks that included prematurity, low and high birth weight, and gestational diabetes. There have also been studies that suggest neonatal withdrawal and abnormal muscles movements. The longer term neurodevelopmental outcomes for children exposed in utero remain unclear with only four studies identified: two of first generation antipsychotics and two of second generation antipsychotics. When considering the risk of these medications in pregnancy, the risk of untreated maternal illness (particularly schizophrenia and bipolar disorder) on both maternal and child outcomes is relevant. Future research needs to focus on prospective, longitudinal studies with adequate measures of key confounding variables including maternal mental illness, other exposures (such as smoking, alcohol and illicit drug use) and adequate length of follow up where accurate child developmental measures are obtained.
The population health approach: A qualitative study of conceptual and operational definitions for leaders in Canadian healthcare
Authors: Cohen Deborah , Huynh Tai , Sebold Anne , Harvey Jean , Neudorf Cory , Brown Adalsteinn
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

The population health approach is increasingly recognized for its role in health system reform; however, its broad scope and definition have been criticized for being a barrier to clear communication. This qualitative study examined the way senior healthcare leaders in Canada conceptualize and operationalize the population health approach in planning and decision-making.

Findings:

Core elements of the population health approach included focusing on health and wellness rather than illness, taking a population rather than individual orientation, understanding needs and solutions through community outreach, addressing health disparities/health in vulnerable groups, addressing the social determinants of health and inter-sectoral action and partnerships.

Conclusion:

The population health approach is increasingly recognized for its role in reducing healthcare demand and contributing to health system sustainability. This study demonstrated the growing need to clarify terminology among multiform partners to establish a foundation for future healthcare integration and inter-sectoral action.
Right-Sided Pleural Effusion in a Critically Ill Stroke Patient
Authors: Bautista Alexander , Heine Michael , van Berkel Victor , Kelly-Frasher Lydia , Remmel Kerri , Akca Ozan
Published: February 2014

Pleural fluid collections are common in those critically ill. We report the case of a left middle cerebral artery stroke patient who developed respiratory distress and required intubation and mechanical ventilation. Although the patient’s clinical status and oxygenation improved, there was persistence of right-sided opacity in the chest radiograph. Further workup proved a right-sided pleural effusion, which was drained and managed. Following extubation, a swallow study was ordered, which led to a fluoroscopic examination that demonstrated esophageal perforation. Thoracic surgery was consulted and did a primary repair of perforation and noted non–small cell carcinoma on the perforated site.
The One Percent
Authors: Keister Lisa A. , Lee Hang Young
Published: February 2014

The one percent, those at the top of the income and wealth distributions, are fundamental to understanding social and economic inequality and mobility, but sociologists rarely focus research attention on this group. This article presents updated evidence showing that both income and wealth are very highly concentrated in the United States but that the concentration of wealth, particularly financial wealth, is extremely high. We focus on the one percent of wealth owners and identify patterns in asset ownership, liabilities, and demographic traits that are relevant to sociological research. Findings show, for example, that those in the one percent have unique asset and debt portfolios that, to some extent, insulated them from the ill effects of the recent recession; however, patterns reported also highlight inheritance and suggest that mobility into the one percent is possible. The article concludes with suggestions for future research.
An Exploration of Undergraduate Music Majors’ Melodic Dictation Strategies
Authors: Buonviri Nathan O.
Published: February 2014

Based on the needs for viable melodic dictation strategies and thoughtful approaches to teaching prerequisite skills, the central research question guiding this qualitative study was as follows: What strategies do dictation takers describe having used on successfully completing a standard melodic dictation? Six sophomore music majors, recommended by their theory professors as consistently successful in melodic dictation, completed two cycles each of a standard dictation coupled with a follow-up reflection interview focused on strategies. Three overarching themes emerged from data analysis: (1) Participants are highly skilled at directing their attention during dictation, (2) participants prioritize tasks carefully during each listening of a dictation, and (3) participants skillfully coordinate a variety of musical and problem-solving skills to complete dictations successfully.
Intermittent plastic flow of single crystals: central problems in plasticity: A review
Authors: Niewczas M.
Published: February 2014

The relationships between microstructure and plastic flow properties of copper single crystals deformed at low temperatures are reviewed based on the analysis of experimental results of mechanical, structural and electrical resistivity characterisation. Electrical resistivity measurements suggest that the flow stress correlates with the average density of defects accumulated in the microstructure. The characteristic microstructural length scale that determines the flow stress corresponds closely to the size of dislocation free channels and/or cells produced during plastic flow. The correspondence between micro- and macroscopic approaches to the plastic flow has been analysed based on the behaviour of dislocation mean free path and mean slip distance and their relationship to the microstructure. Production and annihilation of nanoscale debris and point defects and their role in plastic flow and questions pertinent to the influence of microstructural instabilities on the flow stress, workhardening, storage and annihilation of lattice defects have been discussed.
Distinct functional programming of human fetal and adult monocytes
Authors: Krow-Lucal Elisabeth R. , Kim Charles C. , Burt Trevor D. , McCune Joseph M.
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Human fetal and adult classical monocytes have distinct baseline transcriptional and signaling programs. Transcriptional and signaling differences in fetal monocytes underlie stronger responses to cytokine stimulation.
Genome-wide Two-marker linkage disequilibrium mapping of quantitative trait loci
Authors: Yang Jie , Zhu Wei , Chen Jiansong , Zhang Qiao , Wu Song
Published: February 2014

Background

In a natural population, the alleles of multiple tightly linked loci on the same chromosome co-segregate and are passed non-randomly from generation to generation. Capitalizing on this phenomenon, a group of mapping methods, commonly referred to as the linkage disequilibrium-based mapping (LD mapping), have been developed recently for detecting genetic associations. However, most current LD mapping methods mainly employed single-marker analysis, overlooking the rich information contained within adjacent linked loci.

Results

We extend the single-marker LD mapping to include two linked loci and explicitly incorporate their LD information into genetic mapping models (tmLD). We establish the theoretical foundations for the tmLD mapping method and also provide a thorough examination of its statistical properties. Our simulation studies demonstrate that the tmLD mapping method significantly improves the detection power of association compared to the single-marker based and also haplotype based mapping methods. The practical usage and properties of the tmLD mapping method were further elucidated through the analysis of a large-scale dental caries GWAS data set. It shows that the tmLD mapping method can identify significant SNPs that are missed by the traditional single-marker association analysis and haplotype based mapping method. An R package for our proposed method has been developed and is freely available.

Conclusions

The proposed tmLD mapping method is more powerful than single marker mapping generally used in GWAS data analysis. We recommend the usage of this improved method over the traditional single marker association analysis.
Grapevine microRNAs responsive to exogenous gibberellin
Authors: Han Jian , Fang Jinggui , Wang Chen , Yin Yanlei , Sun Xin , Leng Xiangpeng , Song Changnian
Published: February 2014

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), involving in various biological and metabolic processes, have been discovered and analyzed in quite a number of plants species, such as Arabidopsis, rice and other plants. However, there have been few reports about grapevine miRNAs in response to gibberelline (GA3).

Results

Solexa technology was used to sequence small RNA libraries constructed from grapevine berries treated with GA3 and the control. A total of 122 known and 90 novel grapevine miRNAs (Vvi-miRNAs) were identified. Totally, 137 ones were found to be clearly responsive to GA3, among which 58 were down-regulated, 51 were up-regulated, 21 could only be detected in the control, and seven were only detected in the treatment. Subsequently, we found that 28 of them were differentially regulated by GA3, with 12 conserved and 16 novel Vvi-miRNAs, based on the analysis of qRT-PCR essays. There existed some consistency in expression levels of GA3-responsive Vvi-miRNAs between high throughput sequencing and qRT-PCR essays. In addition, 117 target genes for 29 novel miRNAs were predicted.

Conclusions

Deep sequencing of short RNAs from grapevine berries treated with GA3 and the control identified 137 GA3-responsive miRNAs, among which 28 exhibited different expression profiles of response to GA3 in the diverse developmental stages of grapevine berries. These identified Vvi-miRNAs might be involved in the grapevine berry development and response to environmental stresses.
No difference in sexual behavior of adolescent girls following Human Papilloma Virus vaccination: a case study two districts in Uganda; Nakasongola and Luwero
Authors: Aujo Judith Caroline , Bakeera-Kitaka Sabrina , Kiguli Sarah , Mirembe Florence
Published: February 2014

Background

Vaccination against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) before sexual debut has been recommended by WHO as a primary prevention strategy against cervical cancer. In Uganda, vaccination against HPV started as a demonstration project among young girls in Nakasongola; and Ibanda districts. Studies have suggested that vaccination against HPV could result in risky sexual behavior and increase the risk of early sexual debut.

This study was done to compare the sexual behavior of HPV vaccinated and non vaccinated adolescent girls in two neighboring districts in Uganda; and to assess whether HPV vaccination had any influence on sexual behavior of vaccinated adolescent girls.

Methods

This was an unmatched comparative study, which used both qualitative and quantitative study methods. It was carried out among 400 primary school girls aged 12 to 15 years in the districts of Nakasongola (vaccinated) and Luwero (non vaccinated). Quantitative data was collected using a questionnaire while qualitative data was obtained using focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The main outcome measure was the number of sexually active girls in each group.

Results

Of the 400 girls, 8 volunteered information that they were sexually active, 5(2.5%) from Luwero (non vaccinated) and 3 (1.5%) from Nakasongola (vaccinated), but there was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. HPV vaccination was not significantly associated with being sexually active.

Conclusion

There was no significant difference in sexual behavior between vaccinated and non vaccinated girls.
Television viewing through ages 2-5 years and bullying involvement in early elementary school
Authors: Verlinden Marina , Tiemeier Henning , Veenstra René , Mieloo Cathelijne L , Jansen Wilma , Jaddoe Vincent WV , Raat Hein , Hofman Albert , Verhulst Frank C , Jansen Pauline W
Published: February 2014

Background

High television exposure time at young age has been described as a potential risk factor for developing behavioral problems. However, less is known about the effects of preschool television on subsequent bullying involvement. We examined the association between television viewing time through ages 2-5 and bullying involvement in the first grades of elementary school. We hypothesized that high television exposure increases the risk of bullying involvement.

Method

TV viewing time was assessed repeatedly in early childhood using parental report. To combine these repeated assessments we used latent class analysis. Four exposure classes were identified and labeled “low”, “mid-low”, “mid-high” and “high”. Bullying involvement was assessed by teacher questionnaire (n = 3423, mean age 6.8 years). Additionally, peer/self-report of bullying involvement was obtained using a peer nomination procedure (n = 1176, mean age 7.6 years). We examined child risk of being a bully, victim or a bully-victim (compared to being uninvolved in bullying).

Results

High television exposure class was associated with elevated risks of bullying and victimization. Also, in both teacher- and child-reported data, children in the high television exposure class were more likely to be a bully-victim (OR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.42-3.13 and OR = 3.68, 95% CI: 1.75-7.74 respectively). However, all univariate effect estimates attenuated and were no longer statistically significant once adjusted for maternal and child covariates.

Conclusions

The association between television viewing time through ages 2-5 and bullying involvement in early elementary school is confounded by maternal and child socio-demographic characteristics.
Vellozia flavicans Mart. ex Schult. hydroalcoholic extract inhibits the neuromuscular blockade induced by Bothrops jararacussu venom
Authors: Tribuiani Natália , da Silva Alexandro Mateus , Ferraz Miriéle Cristina , Silva Magali Glauzer , Bentes Ana Paula Guerreiro , Graziano Talita Signoreti , dos Santos Marcio Galdino , Cogo José Carlos , Varanda Eliana Aparecida , Groppo Francisco Carlos , Cogo Karina , Oshima-Franco Yoko
Published: February 2014

Background

Snakebite is a significant public health issue in tropical countries. In Brazil, some of the most common snake envenomations are fromBothrops. Bothropsbites trigger local and systemic effects including edema, pain, erythema, cyanosis, infections, and necrosis.Vellozia flavicansis a plant from the Brazilian “cerrado” (savanna) that is popularly used as an anti-inflammatory medicine. Since inflammation develops quickly afterBothropsbites, which can lead to infection, the aim of the present study was to observe possible anti-snake venom and antimicrobial activities ofV. flavicans(Vf).

Methods

The chromatographic profile of the main constituents from the Vf leaf hydroalcoholic extract was obtained by thin-layer chromatography (TLC). The anti-snake venom activity was measured by Vf’s ability to neutralize thein vitroneuromuscular blockade caused byBothrops jararacussuvenom (Bjssu) in a mouse phrenic nerve-diaphragm model (PND). After a 20 min incubation, preparations of PND were added to Tyrode’s solution (control); Vf (0.2, 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/mL); 40 μg/mL Bjssu; pre-incubation for 30 min with Bjssu and 1 mg/mL Vf; and a Bjssu pretreated preparation (for 10 min) followed by 1 mg/mL Vf. Myographic recording was performed, and the contractile responses were recorded. The antimicrobial activity (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] and minimum bactericidal concentration [MBC]) was obtained forStaphylococcus aureus,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Escherichia coli, andEnterococcus faecalis, using gentamicin and vancomycin as positive controls.

Results

TLC analysis yielded several compounds from Vf, such as flavonoids (quercetin) and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid). Bjssu completely blocked the contractile responses of PND preparations, while Vf preserved 97% (±10%) of the contractile responses when incubated with Bjssu. In the PND pretreated with Bjssu, Vf was able to inhibit the neuromuscular blockade progress. MIC and MBC of Vf ranged from 2.5 to 5.0 mg/mL forP. aeruginosaandS. aureusstrains, while no antimicrobial activity was observed forE. coliandE. faecalis.

Conclusions

The hydroalcoholic extract from Vf leaves was able to neutralize and decrease thein vitroneuromuscular blockade caused by Bjssu. However, it did not show significant antimicrobial activity against the tested bacteria.
Anti-allergic effect of a Korean traditional medicine, Biyeom-Tang on mast cells and allergic rhinitis
Authors: Jeong Kyu-Tae , Kim Sun-Gun , Lee Jiean , Park Young Na , Park Hyo-Hyun , Park Na-Young , Kim Keuk-Jun , Lee Hwadong , Lee Youn Ju , Lee Eunkyung
Published: February 2014

Background

Biyeom-Tang, a medicine prescribed by oriental clinics, has been used for the treatment of the allergic rhinitis (AR). In the present study, an ethanol extract of Biyeom-Tang (EBT) was investigated for anti-allergic properties on bone-marrow derived mast cells (BMMC) and in vivo models.

Methods

The anti-allergic properties of EBT were evaluated by measuring β-Hex release and the production of prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) and leukotriene C4 (LTC4) on BMMC in vitro and PCA and OVA-induced AR models in vivo.

Results

EBT strongly inhibited a degranulation reaction in a dose dependent manner with an IC50 value of 35.6 μg/ml. In addition, the generation of PGD2 and LTC4 was inhibited in BMMC in a concentration-dependent manner with IC50 values of 7.0 μg/ml and 10.9 μg/ml, respectively. When administrated orally, EBT ameliorated the mast cell-mediated PCA reaction. In the OVA-induced AR model, the increased levels of IgE were reduced by EBT. The levels of cytokines, such as IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13 decreased in the splenocytes of EBT-treated mice. The histological analysis shows that the infiltration of inflammatory cells increased by OVA-sensitization was also reduced.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results suggested that EBT has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo models.
Performance-improved thin-film a-Si:H/μc-Si:H tandem solar cells by two-dimensionally nanopatterning photoactive layer
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Li Xiaofeng , Shang Aixue , Zhan Yaohui , Yang Zhenhai , Wu Shaolong
Published: February 2014

Tandem solar cells consisting of amorphous and microcrystalline silicon junctions with the top junction nanopatterned as a two-dimensional photonic crystal are studied. Broadband light trapping, detailed electron/hole transport, and photocurrent matching modulation are considered. It is found that the absorptances of both junctions can be significantly increased by properly engineering the duty cycles and pitches of the photonic crystal; however, the photocurrent enhancement is always unevenly distributed in the junctions, leading to a relatively high photocurrent mismatch. Further considering an optimized intermediate layer and device resistances, the optimally matched photocurrent approximately 12.74 mA/cm2 is achieved with a light-conversion efficiency predicted to be 12.67%, exhibiting an enhancement of over 27.72% compared to conventional planar configuration.
Tracking of time-varying genomic regulatory networks with a LASSO-Kalman smoother
Authors: Khan Jehandad , Bouaynaya Nidhal , Fathallah-Shaykh Hassan M
Published: February 2014

It is widely accepted that cellular requirements and environmental conditions dictate the architecture of genetic regulatory networks. Nonetheless, the status quo in regulatory network modeling and analysis assumes an invariant network topology over time. In this paper, we refocus on a dynamic perspective of genetic networks, one that can uncover substantial topological changes in network structure during biological processes such as developmental growth. We propose a novel outlook on the inference of time-varying genetic networks, from a limited number of noisy observations, by formulating the network estimation as a target tracking problem. We overcome the limited number of observations (smallnlargepproblem) by performing tracking in a compressed domain. Assuming linear dynamics, we derive the LASSO-Kalman smoother, which recursively computes the minimum mean-square sparse estimate of the network connectivity at each time point. The LASSO operator, motivated by the sparsity of the genetic regulatory networks, allows simultaneous signal recovery and compression, thereby reducing the amount of required observations. The smoothing improves the estimation by incorporating all observations. We track the time-varying networks during the life cycle of theDrosophila melanogaster. The recovered networks show that few genes are permanent, whereas most are transient, acting only during specific developmental phases of the organism.
Effect of diabetic neuropathy severity classified by a fuzzy model in muscle dynamics during gait
Authors: Watari Ricky , Sartor Cristina D , Picon Andreja P , Butugan Marco K , Amorim Cesar F , Ortega Neli RS , Sacco Isabel CN
Published: February 2014

Background

Electromyography (EMG) alterations during gait, supposedly caused by diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy, are subtle and still inconsistent, due to difficulties in defining homogeneous experimental groups with a clear definition of disease stages. Since evaluating these patients involve many uncertainties, the use of a fuzzy model could enable a better discrimination among different stages of diabetic polyneuropathy and lead to a clarification of when changes in muscle activation start occurring. The aim of this study was to investigate EMG patterns during gait in diabetic individuals with different stages of DSP severity, classified by a fuzzy system.

Methods

147 subjects were divided into a control group (n = 30) and four diabetic groups: absent (n = 43), mild (n = 30), moderate (n = 16), and severe (n = 28) neuropathy, classified by a fuzzy model. The EMG activity of the vastus lateralis, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius medialis were measured during gait. Temporal and relative magnitude variables were compared among groups using ANOVA tests.

Results

Muscle activity changes are present even before an established neural involvement, with delay in vastus lateralis peak and lower tibialis anterior relative magnitude. These alterations suggest an impaired ankle shock absorption mechanism, with compensation at the knee. This condition seems to be more pronounced in higher degrees of neuropathy, as there is an increased vastus lateralis activity in the mild and severe neuropathy groups. Tibialis anterior onset at terminal stance was anticipated in all diabetic groups; at higher degrees of neuropathy, the gastrocnemius medialis exhibited activity reduction and peak delay.

Conclusion

EMG alterations in the vastus lateralis and tibialis anterior occur even in the absence of diabetic neuropathy and in mild neuropathic subjects, seemingly causing changes in the shock absorption mechanisms at the heel strike. These changes increase with the onset of neural impairments, and the gastrocnemius medialis starts presenting altered activity in the later stages of the disease (moderate and severe neuropathy). The degree of severity of diabetic neuropathy must be taken into account when analyzing diabetic patients’ biomechanical patterns of locomotion; we recommend the use of a fuzzy model for classification of disease stages.
Implementing a successful tuberculosis programme within primary care services in a conflict area using the stop TB strategy: Afghanistan case study
Authors: Seddiq Khaled , Enarson Donald A , Shah Karam , Haq Zaeem , Khan Wasiq M
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Afghanistan has faced health consequences of war including those due to displacement of populations, breakdown of health and social services, and increased risks of disease transmission for over three decades. Yet it was able to restructure its National Tuberculosis Control Programme (NTP), integrate tuberculosis treatment into primary health care and achieve most of its targets by the year 2011. What were the processes that enabled the programme to achieve its targets? More importantly, what were the underpinning factors that made this success possible? We addressed these important questions through a case study.

Case description

We adopted a processes and outcomes framework for this study, which began with examining the change in key programme indicators, followed by backwards tracing of the processes and underlying factors, responsible for this change. Methods included review of the published and grey literature along with in-depth interviews of 15 key informants involved with the care of tuberculosis patients in Afghanistan.

Discussion and evaluation

TB incidence and mortality per 100,000 decreased from 325 and 92 to 189 and 39 respectively, while case notification and treatment success improved during the decade under study. Efficient programme structures were enabled through high political commitment from the Government, strong leadership from the programme, effective partnership and coordination among stakeholders, and adequate technical and financial support from the development partners.

Conclusions

The NTP Afghanistan is an example that public health programmes can be effectively implemented in fragile states. High political commitment and strong local leadership are essential factors for such programmes. To ensure long-term effectiveness of the NTP, the international support should be withdrawn in a phased manner, coupled with a sequential increase in resources allocated to the NTP by the Government of Afghanistan.
Tax structure and revenue instability: the Great Recession and the states
Authors: Chernick Howard , Reimers Cordelia , Tennant Jennifer
Published: February 2014

The Great Recession had the most severe impact on state tax revenues of any downturn since the Great Depression. We hypothesize that states with more progressive tax structures are more vulnerable to economic downturns, and that progressivity and income volatility may interact to amplify the recession’s fiscal impact. We find that, while potential revenue exposure is greater in more progressive states, the most important source of variation was differences in income concentration and capital gains shares in the top 5 percent of taxpayers. Though the interaction between income volatility and high tax burdens at the top did produce large decreases in tax revenue in a few states, tax progressivity accounted for little of the overall interstate variation in revenue volatility.

JEL codes

H24; H71