bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adverse Childhood and Recent Negative Life Events
Authors: Korten Nicole C. M. , Penninx Brenda W. J. H. , Pot Anne Margriet , Deeg Dorly J. H. , Comijs Hannie C.
Published: February 2014

Objective:

To examine whether persons who experienced adverse childhood events or recent negative life events have a worse cognitive performance and faster cognitive decline and the role of depression and apolipoprotein E-∊4 in this relationship.

Methods:

The community-based sample consisted of 10-year follow-up data of 1312 persons participating in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (age range 65-85 years).

Results:

Persons who experienced adverse childhood events showed a faster 10-year decline in processing speed but only when depressive symptoms were experienced. Persons with more recent negative life events showed slower processing speed at baseline but no faster decline.

Conclusions:

Childhood adversity may cause biological or psychological vulnerability, which is associated with both depressive symptoms and cognitive decline in later life. The accumulation of recent negative life events did not affect cognitive functioning over a longer time period.
Long-Term Statin Use and Dementia Risk in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Ping-Yen , Liu Shi-Kai , Chen Chun-Lin , Wu Chi-Shin
Published: February 2014

Background:

The effect of statin use on dementia risk remains unclear. This study aims to examine the association between long-term statin use and dementia risk.

Methods:

A nest case–control study within a nationwide representative population-based cohort. Individuals aged 50 years and older participating in Taiwan’s National Health Insurance program between 1998 and 2009 were enrolled. A total of 9257 patients with at least 3 outpatient or 1 inpatient claims records for dementia were identified. Comparison patients were selected at a 1:2 ratio from age- and sex-matched participants without dementia. The cumulative period and average daily dosages of statins, fibrates, and other lipid-lowering agents were measured.

Results:

The authors found a duration–response relationship, as dementia risk decreased by 9% per year of treatment of statins (adjusted odds ratio = 0.91; 95% confidence interval, 0.85-0.97). Use of high average dose statins for more than 1 year was associated with a lower risk of dementia than use of low average dose. However, there was no significant difference in dementia risks between lipophilic and hydrophilic statins. Fibrates or other lipid-lowering agents had no significant association with dementia risk.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that long-term use of statin is associated with a reduced dementia risk.
Hospice Agencies’ Hospital Contract Status and Differing Levels of Hospice Care
Authors: Chung Kyusuk , Richards Nicole , Burke Sloane
Published: February 2014

In response to a 2011 finding that approximately 27% of Medicare-certified hospices do not provide a single day of general inpatient care (GIP), the authors explored the extent to which hospices have contracts with hospitals for GIP. Using the 2007 National Home and Hospice Care Survey, we estimated that 1119 (32%) agencies had no contract with any hospitals in 2007 and half of those with no contract did not have a contract with a skilled nursing facility (SNF) either. As a result, these hospices were unable to provide GIP referrals for those in need of inpatient care for acute pain and symptom management. More importantly, not having a contract with a hospital was just one of the factors influencing GIP provision. In the multivariate logistic model, after controlling for contract status with a hospital and other hospice characteristics, agencies in the second quartile of hospice patient census (12-29 vs 73 or more, adjusted odds ratio = 14.10; 95% confidence interval 4.26-46.62) were independently related to providing only routine home care. These hospices are more likely to rely solely on scatter beds for GIP provision. Given that a significant portion of hospices do not have a contract with a hospital, policy makers need to understand barriers to contracts with a hospital/SNF for GIP and consider a hospice’s contract status as one of the standards for hospice certification. In addition, further research is necessary to understand why hospices that do have a contract with a hospital do not make GIP referral.
Multiple Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Attempts in a Community Hospital
Authors: Barjaktarevic Igor , Bobe Lohaliz , Klapholz Ari , Dinan William
Published: February 2014

Background:

In hospital settings, inadequate recognition of futility of aggressive medical management in patients with terminal disease and lack of the timely transition to palliative care may lead to both excessive and potentially harmful treatment and unnecessary burden on hospital resources. In order to better understand the outcomes of futile medical management and recognize the need for more appropriate end-of-life care, we evaluated the survival of particularly vulnerable cohort of patients in a community hospital who had survived at least 1 cardiorespiratory arrest (CRA) but whose medical problems led to subsequent arrests.

Methods:

In this retrospective cohort study, we have reviewed the annual cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) data in a community hospital in urban settings.

Results:

Analyzing the population of all patients who had CRA, 22.4% had more than 1 CRA episode and had multiple CPRs (42% of all inpatient CPR were performed on this group of patients). Overall survival at the discharge of patients who had single CRA is significantly better than survival at the discharge of patients who had more than 1 CRA episode (31% vs 4.5%). Only 18.5% of the patients who initially survived CPR after CRA were transitioned to “do not resuscitate” status subsequently, while vast majority had continued aggressive resuscitative efforts.

Conclusion:

Adjusting medical care based on futility assessment in patients with chronic illness who survive CRA is often neglected, but crucially relevant step in the optimization of health care system management.
Paying Attention to Accessibility When Designing Online Courses in Technical and Professional Communication
Authors: Oswal Sushil K. , Meloncon Lisa
Published: February 2014

Roughly 1 out of 10 students in our classrooms has some form of disability, and now that a growing number of technical and professional communication (TPC) courses and programs are offered online, scholars need to adequately address accessibility in online course design. Calling on the field to “pay attention” to this issue, the authors report the results of a national survey of online writing instructors and use Selfe’s landmark essay as a way to theoretically frame the results. They conclude by offering strategies for TPC instructors to design more accessible online courses.
Treatment of metastatic melanoma with pazopanib: A report of five patient cases
Authors: Dayer Lindsey E , Hutchins Laura F , Johnson Jill T
Published: February 2014

Metastatic melanoma has a median length of survival after diagnosis of 6–9 months. Unfortunately, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network clinical practice guidelines for treating stage IV, unresectable, metastatic melanoma are limited with regard to treatment options. Pazopanib (Votrient™) is FDA-approved for advanced soft tissue sarcoma and advanced renal cell carcinoma. Limited research exists for using pazopanib in the treatment of metastatic melanoma. We present five cases in which pazopanib was used in combination with paclitaxel ± carboplatin for treatment of unresectable, metastatic melanoma.
Rethinking a Typology of Watershed Partnerships
Authors: Diaz-Kope Luisa , Miller-Stevens Katrina
Published: February 2014

As the paradigm shift from command-and-control statutes to collaborative partnerships increases, public administrators, policy makers, and watershed stakeholders will become more dependent on collaborative partnerships to solve complex environmental problems. This article explores watershed management partnerships and suggests a new typology of collaboration built on the variable of governance. The typology categorizes three types of watershed partnerships as interagency governance, cross-sector governance, and grassroots governance. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of watershed partnerships through the lens of governance structure will enhance public administrator and policy makers’ abilities to provide the best approach for addressing a particular watershed goal.
The Combined Effects of Social Script Training and Peer Buddies on Generalized Peer Interaction of Children With ASD in Inclusive Classrooms
Authors: Hundert Joel , Rowe Sarah , Harrison Erin
Published: February 2014

One of the challenges in supporting young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in inclusive classrooms is the generalization of improved social behaviors. Using a multiple-baseline design across participants, this study examined the generalized effects of social script training alone and combined with peer buddies on the interactive play of three children with ASD to play settings in inclusive classrooms where the training was not in effect. Social script training alone increased the interactive play of children with ASD when the intervention was in place, but did not generalize to another play setting when social script training was not being conducted. The addition of peer buddies combined with social script training produced a generalized increase in peer interaction to play settings in inclusive classrooms when theme-related play materials and adult assistance were unavailable. Implications of these results for inclusion of young children with ASD are discussed.
A Multi-Rater Study on Being Teased Among Children/Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Their Typically Developing Siblings
Authors: Nowell Kerri P. , Brewton Christie M. , Goin-Kochel Robin P.
Published: February 2014

The study examined teasing experiences among 74 individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD; M age = 115.7 months [9.6 years]; 83.8% male). Experiences were examined from parent, teacher, and child’s own perspectives. Factors potentially associated with being teased were investigated. Comparison data were ascertained on typically developing siblings ( n = 68; M age = 116.5 months [9.7 years]; 52.9% male). Select items on the Child Behavior Checklist 6–18 and the Teacher Report Form 6–18 were utilized to calculate the prevalence of being teased; qualitative data from a subgroup of verbally fluent children with ASD ( n = 50) were analyzed to provide child self-report teasing data. Children with ASD were more likely to be teased than their typically developing siblings. Characteristics that were significantly associated with being teased included higher cognitive functioning, less severe ASD symptomatology, and more time spent in inclusive educational settings. Clinical implications are discussed.
The HEXACO Honesty-Humility, Agreeableness, and Emotionality Factors
Authors: Ashton Michael C. , Lee Kibeom , de Vries Reinout E.
Published: February 2014

We review research and theory on the HEXACO personality dimensions of Honesty-Humility (H), Agreeableness (A), and Emotionality (E), with particular attention to the following topics: (1) the origins of the HEXACO model in lexical studies of personality structure, and the content of the H, A, and E factors in those studies; (2) the operationalization of the H, A, and E factors in the HEXACO Personality Inventory–Revised; (3) the construct validity of self-reports on scales measuring the H factor; (4) the theoretical distinction between H and A; (5) similarity and assumed similarity between social partners in personality, with a focus on H and A; (6) the extent to which H (and A and E) variance is represented in instruments assessing the “Five-Factor Model” of personality; and (7) the relative validity of scales assessing the HEXACO and Five-Factor Model dimensions in predicting criteria conceptually relevant to H, A, and E.
Internal Branding
Authors: Löhndorf Birgit , Diamantopoulos Adamantios
Published: February 2014

Prior research acknowledges employees' crucial role in building strong service brands, yet empirical research on how to turn employees into brand champions remains scarce and has been largely approached from an internal branding perspective. Drawing on social identity and social exchange theories, this study takes a broader organizational perspective to link internal branding outcomes (employee-brand fit, brand knowledge, and belief in the brand) and employees' perceptions of organizational support to a range of employee brand-building behaviors, with organizational identification as the key mediating mechanism. Both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses of employee data from a major retail bank reveal organizational identification as a strong motivational force for employees to become brand champions, largely mediating the effects of internal branding outcomes. When organizational identification is low, perceived organizational support (as a quality indicator of employees' exchange-based relationship with the organization) constitutes an alternative, external motivator of on-the-job brand building behaviors; when organizational identification is high, perceived organizational support boosts employees' voluntary participation in brand development and positive word-of-mouth. These findings highlight the managerial relevance of the employee-organization relationship for turning employees into brand champions and show how organizational identification can be stimulated by means of internal branding.
Evaluation Methodologies for Estimating the Likelihood of Program Implementation Failure
Authors: Durand Roger , Decker Phillip J. , Kirkman Dorothy M.
Published: February 2014

Despite our best efforts as evaluators, program implementation failures abound. A wide variety of valuable methodologies have been adopted to explain and evaluate the why of these failures. Yet, typically these methodologies have been employed concurrently (e.g., project monitoring) or to the post-hoc assessment of program activities. What we believe to be missing are methods that will lead to the successful prediction of program implementation failures in advance, methods that will lead us directly to the “how” and, especially, the “ how likely” of program implementation failure. To that end we propose, discuss, and illustrate three such methods that seemingly hold promise – marker analysis, the wisdom of crowds, and “Big Data.” Additionally, we call for an expanded role for evaluation – explanation, but also prediction without a total embrace of the need to understand why a prediction works.
A comparison between the performance of ferro- and magnetorheological fluids in a hydrodynamic bearing
Authors: Laukiavich CA , Braun MJ , Chandy AJ
Published: February 2014

The scope of this paper is to investigate the practical application of using either ferro- or magnetorheological fluids to actively control the fluid flow, pressure generation, and dynamic behavior of a hydrodynamic bearing. Further, this study will endeavor to establish, on a comparative basis, the suitability of each one of these two fluids for use with and control of a self-acting bearing when speed, eccentricity, and the applied magnetic field are changed parametrically. Both ferro- and magnetorheological may provide active control when subject to a magnetic field, but through different mechanisms: the ferrorheological through a discrete change in the body force, while the magnetorheological through global change in its dynamic viscosity. Regardless, changes caused in the ferro- or magnetorheological properties affect the pressure distribution, load-carrying capacity, and frictional torque. By influencing the load-carrying capacity, torque, and attitude angle on a timely basis, as a machine moves transiently from one operational regime to another, one can both extend the operational envelope of the bearing and provide much needed health monitoring protocols for the device (e.g. gas or steam turbine, compressor, etc.).
A sociolinguistic analysis of borrowing in weak contact situations: English loanwords and phrases in expressive utterances in a Dutch reality TV show
Authors: Zenner Eline , Speelman Dirk , Geeraerts Dirk
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a quantitative corpus-based variationist analysis of the English insertions used by Belgian Dutch and Netherlandic Dutch participants to the reality TV show ‘Expeditie Robinson’. The data consist of manual transcriptions of 35 hours of recordings for 46 speakers from 3 seasons of the show. Focusing on the expressive utterances in the corpus, we present a mixed-effect logistic regression analysis to pattern which of a variety of speaker-related and context-related features can help explain the occurrence of English insertions in Dutch. The results show a strong impact of typical variationist variables such as gender, age and location; but features that are more situational, such as emotional charge and topic of the conversation, also prove relevant. Overall, in its combined focus on (a) oral corpora of spontaneous language use, (b) social patterns in the use of English and (c) inferential statistical modeling, this paper presents new perspectives on the study of Anglicisms in weak contact settings.
Attitudes to immigration and cultural diversity in Australia
Authors: Markus Andrew
Published: February 2014

This article considers Australian attitudes to immigration and cultural diversity. It argues that Australia and Canada are the most receptive to immigration among western nations. The average of 25 surveys conducted in Australia in the period 1999–2010 finds 52% in support of the current immigration level or in support of an increased intake, 43% in support of reduction, and 5% uncertain. While there can be no definitive measure of the level of strong opposition to cultural diversity, on the basis of a number of surveys conducted over the last 30 years, there are indications that the level is close to 10% of the population, with higher levels within specific demographics. Areas of high immigrant concentration present a complex picture. They are characterised by high levels of identification with Australia, but also lower levels of trust and sense of safety, lower levels of participation and heightened experience of discrimination.
The European backlash against immigration and multiculturalism
Authors: Lesińska Magdalena
Published: February 2014

Europe forms an interesting laboratory for studying political reactions to mass immigration and integration of ethnic minorities during times of political turbulence and economic crisis. Political leaders of mainstream parties, under pressure from critics of intensified immigration and now from the social effects of the Great Recession, act reactively and defensively. They respond to a political backlash against immigration and to concerns about unemployment and job security by criticizing (mainly illegal) immigrants for welfare parasitism, reluctance to integrate and even criminality. Such criticism generates a climate of suspicion and hostility towards immigrants and legitimizes policies that restrict immigration and immigrant rights. The leaders also describe ‘multiculturalism’ – portrayed as uncritical acceptance of cultural diversity – as a failure, and suggest more ‘realistic’ (read: less tolerant, more assimilationist) policy strategies.
Theoretical reflections on dystopian consumer culture
Authors: Podoshen Jeffrey S. , Venkatesh Vivek , Jin Zheng
Published: February 2014

This article examines aspects related to the dystopic consumption and production of the musical and performance art form known as black metal. Steeped in anti-Christian motifs, surrounded by a history of violence and brutal imagery, black metal is an extreme metal art form that has been growing steadily in popularity throughout Europe, South America, and the United States. We first examine black metal culture through the eyes of both artists and consumers, using mixed qualitative methodologies. Thereafter, we derive specific theoretical interpretations from the black metal subculture that are predicated on the emerging themes of signification, identity transformation, xenophobia, and a reconstructed mythology that all point to what we present as a dystopian consumption model. The model demonstrates how dystopia, in context, is at the heart of the symbiotic relationship between consumers and producers and is encapsulated by a specific set of processes and overarching conditions. Implications and relationships to utopian models are discussed.
Combined vibration and thermal analysis for the condition monitoring of rotating machinery
Authors: Nembhard Adrian D , Sinha Jyoti K , Pinkerton Andrew J , Elbhbah Keri
Published: February 2014

Traditional practice in vibration-based condition monitoring of rotating machines with a multiple bearing system, such as turbo-generator sets, is data intensive. Since a number of sensors are required at each bearing location, the task of diagnosing faults on these systems may be daunting for even an experienced analyst. Hence, this study seeks to develop a simplified fault diagnosis method that uses just a single vibration and a single temperature sensor on each bearing. Experiments were done on a laboratory rig with two dissimilar length rotors supported through four ball bearings. Commonly encountered rotor-related faults were independently simulated and compared to a baseline condition. For reference, conventional vibration spectrum analysis was done first. Overall vibration analysis was then conducted and combined with temperature data in two diagnosis approaches. Learning from the first combined approach, which had some limitations, was used to propose a principal component analysis–based approach that was demonstrated with and without temperature data. Results of the proposed principal component analysis–based method suggest that supplementing vibration data with temperature measurements gives improved fault diagnosis when compared to fault diagnosis using vibration data alone. The experimental rig, measurements done, description of both combined approaches and results obtained are presented in this article.
The Added Value of 18-Fluorodeoxyglucose-Positron Emission Tomography in the Diagnosis of the Behavioral Variant of Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Kerklaan B. J. , van Berckel B. N. M. , Herholz K. , Dols A. , van der Flier W. M. , Scheltens P. , Pijnenburg Y. A. L.
Published: February 2014

Characteristic frontotemporal abnormalities on structural or functional neuroimaging are mandatory for a diagnosis of probable behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) according to the new criteria. 18-Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET) imaging is commonly reserved for patients with suspected bvFTD without characteristic structural neuroimaging results. We studied the diagnostic value of 18F-FDG-PET in these patients.

Methods:

The 18F-FDG-PET was performed in 52 patients with suspected bvFTD but lacking characteristic structural neuroimaging results. The clinical diagnosis of bvFTD in the presence of functional decline (bvFTD/fd+) after a follow-up period of 2 years was used as a golden standard.

Results:

The sensitivity of 18F-FDG-PET for bvFTD/fd+ was 47% at a specificity of 92%. The differential diagnosis comprised alternative neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders and a benign phenocopy of bvFTD.

Conclusions:

The 18F-FDG-PET is able to identify nearly half of the patients with bvFTD who remain undetected by magnetic resonance imaging. In our selected group, high specificity enables exclusion of psychiatric and other neurodegenerative disorders.
The Impact of Feminist Pathways Research on Gender-Responsive Policy and Practice
Authors: Wattanaporn Katelyn A. , Holtfreter Kristy
Published: February 2014

Feminist pathways research has influenced theoretical development by challenging the gender neutrality of mainstream explanations for offending and victimization. This approach has also influenced data collection, analytic methods, and perhaps most importantly, gender-responsive policies and practices. This review examines the pathways to crime framework as a theoretically driven, empirically rigorous method for studying female offending and victimization, and for informing gender-responsive correctional programming and treatment. After outlining initial pathways contributions, we discuss feminist scholarship driven by the pathways framework and the impact of this research. We conclude with a summary of future directions for pathways-based analyses.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Newborn Infants
Authors: Thomas Felicity , Signal Mathew , Harris Deborah L. , Weston Philip J. , Harding Jane E. , Shaw Geoffrey M. , Chase J. Geoffrey ,   on behalf of the CHYLD Study Group
Published: February 2014

Background:

Neonatal hypoglycemia is common and can cause serious brain injury. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) could improve hypoglycemia detection, while reducing blood glucose (BG) measurements. Calibration algorithms use BG measurements to convert sensor signals into CGM data. Thus, inaccuracies in calibration BG measurements directly affect CGM values and any metrics calculated from them.

Aim:

The aim was to quantify the effect of timing delays and calibration BG measurement errors on hypoglycemia metrics in newborn infants.

Methods:

Data from 155 babies were used. Two timing and 3 BG meter error models (Abbott Optium Xceed, Roche Accu-Chek Inform II, Nova Statstrip) were created using empirical data. Monte-Carlo methods were employed, and each simulation was run 1000 times. Each set of patient data in each simulation had randomly selected timing and/or measurement error added to BG measurements before CGM data were calibrated. The number of hypoglycemic events, duration of hypoglycemia, and hypoglycemic index were then calculated using the CGM data and compared to baseline values.

Results:

Timing error alone had little effect on hypoglycemia metrics, but measurement error caused substantial variation. Abbott results underreported the number of hypoglycemic events by up to 8 and Roche overreported by up to 4 where the original number reported was 2. Nova results were closest to baseline. Similar trends were observed in the other hypoglycemia metrics.

Conclusions:

Errors in blood glucose concentration measurements used for calibration of CGM devices can have a clinically important impact on detection of hypoglycemia. If CGM devices are going to be used for assessing hypoglycemia it is important to understand of the impact of these errors on CGM data.
Biologic Basis of Nerve Decompression Surgery for Focal Entrapments in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Sessions John , Nickerson D. Scott
Published: February 2014

The most recent (2011) National Diabetes Fact Sheet states the combined diagnosed and undiagnosed number of diabetes cases in the United States is approaching 25 million, and another 79 million are prediabetic. Of the diabetes patients, 60-70% suffer from mild to severe neuropathy. This combined loss of sensory and motor control in diabetic limbs is usually considered an irreversible, progressive process. Patients suffering from these losses are at a significantly higher risk for development of foot ulceration, frequently leading to infection and partial or major limb amputation. However, a review of focal nerve entrapment surgical decompression literature suggests that several diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSPN) symptoms and complications are potentially partially reversible or preventable. Decompression surgery represents a paradigm shift in treatment protocols because it both relieves pain and restores protective sensation, while providing significant protection against a cascade of serious foot complications. This review surveys current research regarding the biological basis for diabetic focal entrapment neuropathy. Metabolic dysfunction related to aldose reductase, oxidative stress, and advanced glycation end products are considered and correlated to peripheral nerve enlargement and entrapment. In addition, observational studies correlated to that biological basis are presented as well as surgical outcomes illustrating the effect of decompression on DSPN symptomatic relief, nerve function, and protection against complications.
The Technology Boom
Authors: Gilmore L. Anne , Duhé Abby F. , Frost Elizabeth A. , Redman Leanne M.
Published: February 2014

As technology continues to develop rapidly, the incidence of obesity also continues to climb at an alarming rate. The increase in available technology is thought to be a contributor in the obesogenic environment, yet at the same time technology can also be used to intervene and improve health and health behaviors. This article reviews the components of effective weight management programs and the novel role that technology, such as SMS, websites, and smartphone apps, is playing to improve the success of such programs. Use of these modern technologies can now allow for individualized treatment recommendations to be delivered to individuals remotely, increased self-monitoring/tracking of health-related data, broader and more rapid dissemination of health information/recommendations, and increased patient–dietician/physician contact. The use of technology in weight management programs results in improved long-term weight management, and in most cases improved cost-effectiveness. Rather than blaming increased food intake and sedentary lifestyle on technology, rapidly developing and innovative technologies should be used to our advantage and deployed to combat the obesity epidemic.
Determining the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Nutrition Education and Cooking Program for Preschoolers and Their Families Delivered Over the Dinner Hour in a Low-Income Day Care Setting
Authors: Rose Angela M. , Wagner Allan K. , Kennel Julie A. , Miller Carla K. , Holloman Christopher , Pennywitt Jacqueline , Battista Michelle , Murray Robert D. , Rogers Catherine A. , Gunther Carolyn W.
Published: February 2014

Objective. To test the feasibility and acceptability of a nutrition education/cooking program aimed at teaching positive eating behaviors to parents and their preschool children. Methods. A monthly program was delivered over the dinner hour at a child care facility. Questionnaires were completed at baseline, midway, and study end (10 month). Outcomes were program feasibility (retention, attendance) and acceptability (satisfaction); child food preparation skills, dietary intake, and body mass index percentile; parent self-efficacy regarding healthy eating practices; and family meal frequency. Results. Eleven families were recruited, and 10 families completed (91% retention). On average, 74% attended the program. All reported high satisfaction. Certain child diet outcomes improved (increased fruits and vegetables; decreased sugar-sweetened beverages) ( P < .05). No gain in child body mass index percentile was observed. Parent self-efficacy regarding healthy eating practices improved (planning and encouraging; availability) ( P < .05); family meal frequency increased ( P < .05). Conclusions and Implications. We demonstrated feasibility and acceptability and inferred potential efficacy of a child care–based nutrition education/cooking program. Findings point to the promise of such a childhood obesity prevention program and the need for a larger randomized controlled trial.
Imagining the White Picket Fence
Authors: Emery Lydia F. , Le Benjamin
Published: February 2014

Previous research has established that individuals from a lower social class report lower relationship quality. However, to date, no studies have examined interdependence processes within the relationship as a mechanism underlying this association. The present research investigates the role of planned tangible investments as a mediator between social class and relationship quality. Across two studies, we test this hypothesis correlationally (Study 1) and experimentally (Study 2). As predicted, lower-class individuals reported fewer planned tangible investments, which in turn were associated with lower relationship satisfaction and commitment (Studies 1 and 2), as well as overall satisfaction with life (Study 2). Together, these studies suggest the importance of perceived ability to make future plans for individual and relationship well-being. This research has implications for understanding relationship quality and mental health among lower-class populations, and the findings are discussed in relation to the growing literature on social class and romantic relationships.
Abdominopelvic actinomycosis: spectrum of imaging findings and common mimickers
Authors: Triantopoulou Charikleia , Molen Aart Van der , Es Ad CMG Van , Giannila Maria
Published: February 2014

Background

Actinomycosis is a rare suppurative disease that may mimic other inflammatory conditions on imaging. Its invasive nature may lead to mass formation and atypical presentation thus making accurate diagnosis quite difficult.

Purpose

To describe the different aspects of abdominopelvic actinomycosis on cross-sectional imaging and indicate discriminative findings from other inflammatory or neoplastic diseases.

Material and Methods

In our study we analyzed 18 patients (15 women, 3 men; age range, 25–75 years; mean age, 50 years) with pathologically proved abdominopelvic actinomycosis. Contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) had been performed in all patients. Eleven patients had a history of using intrauterine contraceptive devices. Bowel site, wall thickness and enhancement degree, inflammatory infiltration, and features of peritoneal or pelvic mass were evaluated at CT.

Results

The sigmoid colon was most commonly involved. Most patients showed concentric bowel wall-thickening, enhancing homogenously and inflammatory infiltration of pericolonic fat was mostly diffuse. In 11 patients, one or more pelvic abscesses were revealed, while a peritoneal or pelvic mass adjacent to the involved bowel segment was seen in three cases. Infiltration into the abdominal wall was seen in three cases while in one case there was thoracic dissemination.

Conclusion

Actinomycosis is related not only to long-term use of intrauterine contraceptive devices and should be included in the differential diagnosis when cross-sectional imaging studies show concentric bowel wall-thickening, intense contrast enhancement, regional pelvic or peritoneal masses, and extensive inflammatory fat infiltration with abscess formation.
Sonographic Diagnosis of Fetal Goiter
Authors: Smyth Britt C.
Published: February 2014

The presence of a goiter in the fetus is an indication of maternal thyroid dysfunction. It carries an increased morbidity and mortality for the fetus and into the neonatal period. Maternal thyroid disease must be monitored closely and medications adjusted throughout pregnancy to prevent adverse outcomes. In females with poorly controlled thyroid disease, sonography is useful in the evaluation of the fetus at risk for goiter.
Non-classical crystal growth of inorganic and organic materials
Authors: Greer H. F.
Published: February 2014

Investigation of the early stage morphologies of some organic and inorganic systems has established that their crystal growth does not always follow the classical route established 120 years ago. The classical theory assumes that a highly symmetric crystal develops from the nucleation and repeated attachment of atoms, molecules or ions to a single nucleus. In instances where surfactants or polymers are introduced, the crystal growth is often found, however, to follow a ‘reversed crystal growth’ route. This non-classical growth route is initiated by organic molecules adsorbed onto the surface of the nanocrystallites in the early stages of growth. In the reversed route, these nanocrystallites form large disordered aggregates followed by surface crystallisation to create a thin, highly crystalline, dense shell and, finally, an extension of the crystallisation from the surface to the core. Although systems following a non-classical crystal growth route have been known for many years, their formation mechanisms have a much shorter history. Discovery of the reversed crystal growth route in several hollow, core–shell and twin crystal type morphologies not only assists in the designing of materials for industrial applications but also helps to understand the interactions between organic and inorganic components. This review highlights recent research relating to organic and inorganic systems whose growth follows the reversed crystal growth route.
Antibody-modified T cells: CARs take the front seat for hematologic malignancies
Authors: Maus Marcela V. , Grupp Stephan A. , Porter David L. , June Carl H.
Published: February 2014

T cells redirected to specific antigen targets with engineered chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) are emerging as powerful therapies in hematologic malignancies. Various CAR designs, manufacturing processes, and study populations, among other variables, have been tested and reported in over 10 clinical trials. Here, we review and compare the results of the reported clinical trials and discuss the progress and key emerging factors that may play a role in effecting tumor responses. We also discuss the outlook for CAR T-cell therapies, including managing toxicities and expanding the availability of personalized cell therapy as a promising approach to all hematologic malignancies. Many questions remain in the field of CAR T cells directed to hematologic malignancies, but the encouraging response rates pave a wide road for future investigation.
Cesarean section in a high-parity community in Saudi Arabia: clinical indications and obstetric outcomes
Authors: Al Rowaily Mohammed A , Alsalem Fahad A , Abolfotouh Mostafa A
Published: February 2014

Background

The study of the indications for cesarean section (CS) and its outcomes are useful for hospitals, clinicians, and researchers in determining strategies to lower the primary and repeat CS rate. The aim of this study was to identify the indications for CS and the incidence of adverse maternal/fetal outcomes in a tertiary care setting.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of women (n = 4305) who gave birth by CS at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (June 2008 to February 2011), was performed. All of the women’s medical records were reviewed by two consulting physicians to obtain the primary indications for CS and determine the maternal characteristics, type of CS (emergency or elective), and birth weight. All adverse maternal and fetal outcomes were recorded. The point and interval estimates of the odds ratios were calculated using a logistic regression model to identify the significant predictors of adverse maternal and/or fetal outcomes.

Results

Of a total of 22,595 deliveries from 2008 to 2011, 4,305 deliveries were CS deliveries (19.05%). Two-thirds (67%) of all CS deliveries were emergency CSs, and the remaining deliveries were elective CSs (33%). Difficult labor (35.9%), fetal distress (21.9%) and breech presentation (11.6%) were the most frequent indications of emergency CS, while previous CS (54.3%), breech presentation (20.4%) and maternal request (10.1%) ranked first for elective CS. Adverse maternal and fetal outcomes were diagnosed in 5.09% and 5.06% of deliveries, respectively, with a significantly higher incidence in the emergency (6.06% & 5.51% respectively) than in elective CS (3.10 & 4.16% respectively). Blood transfusion was the most frequent adverse maternal outcome (3.72%), followed by ICU admission (0.63%), HELLP (0.51%), and hysterectomy (0.30%), while IUGR (3.25%) was the most frequent adverse fetal outcome, followed by IUFD and the need for ICU admission (0.58% each). Adverse maternal outcomes were significantly predicted by high gravidity (OR = 2.84, 95% CI:1.26-6.39, p = 0.011) and preeclampsia (OR = 2.84, 95%CI:1.83-4.39, p < 0.001), while adverse fetal outcomes were predicted by: twinning (OR = 1.81, p = 0.002), hydramnios (OR = 6.70, p < 0.001), and preeclampsia (OR = 2.74, p < 0.001). Preterm delivery was a significant predictor for both adverse maternal and fetal outcomes (OR = 2.39, p < 0.001 & OR = 4.57, p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Difficult labor and previous CS were the main indications for CS in Saudi Arabia. High gravidity was a significant predictor of adverse maternal outcomes. Encouraging Saudi women to consider embarking on fewer pregnancies could act as a safeguard against mandatory CSs for subsequent births in multigravida and grand-multigravida Saudi females. Future prospective study that addresses women with repeat CSs and their association with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes is recommended.
Nuclear location of tumor suppressor protein maspin inhibits proliferation of breast cancer cells without affecting proliferation of normal epithelial cells
Authors: Machowska Magdalena , Wachowicz Katarzyna , Sopel Mirosław , Rzepecki Ryszard
Published: February 2014

Background

Maspin, which is classified as a tumor suppressor protein, is downregulated in many types of cancer. Several studies have suggested potential anti-proliferative activity of maspin as well as sensitizing activity of maspin for therapeutic cytotoxic agents in breast cancer tissue culture and animal models. All of the experimental data gathered so far have been based on studies with maspin localized cytoplasmically, while maspin in breast cancer tumor cells may be located in the cytoplasm, nucleus or both. In this study, the effect of maspin cytoplasmic and nuclear location and expression level on breast cancer proliferation and patient survival was studied.

Methods

Tissue sections from 166 patients with invasive ductal breast cancer were stained by immunohistochemistry for maspin and Ki-67 protein. The localization and expression level of maspin were correlated with estimated patient overall survival and percent of Ki-67-positive cells. In further studies, we created constructs for transient transfection of maspin into breast cancer cells with targeted cytoplasmic and nuclear location. We analyzed the effect of maspin location in normal epithelial cell line MCF10A and three breast cancer cell lines - MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 and SKBR-3 - by immunofluorescence and proliferation assay.

Results

We observed a strong positive correlation between moderate and high nuclear maspin level and survival of patients. Moreover, a statistically significant negative relationship was observed between nuclear maspin and Ki-67 expression in patients with invasive ductal breast cancer. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a negative correlation between level of maspin localized in nucleus and percentage of Ki-67 positive cells. No such differences were observed in cells with cytoplasmic maspin. We found a strong correlation between nuclear maspin and loss of Ki-67 protein in breast cancer cell lines, while there was no effect in normal epithelial cells from breast. The anti-proliferative effect of nuclear maspin on breast cancer cells was statistically significant in comparison to cytoplasmic maspin.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that nuclear maspin localization may be a prognostic factor in breast cancer and may have a strong therapeutic potential in gene therapy. Moreover, these data provide a new insight into the role of cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions of maspin in breast cancer.
High calcium concentration in bones promotes bone metastasis in renal cell carcinomas expressing calcium-sensing receptor
Authors: Joeckel Elke , Haber Tobias , Prawitt Dirk , Junker Kerstin , Hampel Christian , Thüroff Joachim W , Roos Frederik C , Brenner Walburgis
Published: February 2014

Background

The prognosis for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is related to a high rate of metastasis, including 30% of bone metastasis. Characteristic for bone tissue is a high concentration of calcium ions. In this study, we show a promoting effect of an enhanced extracellular calcium concentration on mechanisms of bone metastasis via the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) and its downstream signaling molecules.

Methods

Our analyses were performed using 33 (11/category) matched specimens of normal and tumor tissue and 9 (3/category) primary cells derived from RCC patients of the 3 categories: non-metastasized, metastasized into the lung and metastasized into bones during a five-year period after nephrectomy. Expression of CaSR was determined by RT-PCR, Western blot analyses and flow cytometry, respectively. Cells were treated by calcium and the CaSR inhibitor NPS 2143. Cell migration was measured in a Boyden chamber with calcium (10 μM) as chemotaxin and proliferation by BrdU incorporation. The activity of intracellular signaling mediators was quantified by a phospho-kinase array and Western blot.

Results

The expression of CaSR was highest in specimens and cells of patients with bone metastases. Calcium treatment induced an increased migration (19-fold) and proliferation (2.3-fold) exclusively in RCC cells from patients with bone metastases. The CaSR inhibitor NPS 2143 elucidated the role of CaSR on the calcium-dependent effects. After treatment with calcium, the activity of AKT, PLCγ-1, p38α and JNK was clearly enhanced and PTEN expression was almost completely abolished in bone metastasizing RCC cells.

Conclusions

Our results indicate a promoting effect of extracellular calcium on cell migration and proliferation of bone metastasizing RCC cells via highly expressed CaSR and its downstream signaling pathways. Consequently, CaSR may be regarded as a new prognostic marker predicting RCC bone metastasis.
Fabrication and electrical properties of MoS2 nanodisc-based back-gated field effect transistors
Authors: Gu Weixia , Shen Jiaoyan , Ma Xiying
Published: February 2014

Two-dimensional (2D) molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is an attractive alternative semiconductor material for next-generation low-power nanoelectronic applications, due to its special structure and large bandgap. Here, we report the fabrication of large-area MoS2 nanodiscs and their incorporation into back-gated field effect transistors (FETs) whose electrical properties we characterize. The MoS2 nanodiscs, fabricated via chemical vapor deposition (CVD), are homogeneous and continuous, and their thickness of around 5 nm is equal to a few layers of MoS2. In addition, we find that the MoS2 nanodisc-based back-gated field effect transistors with nickel electrodes achieve very high performance. The transistors exhibit an on/off current ratio of up to 1.9 × 105, and a maximum transconductance of up to 27 μS (5.4 μS/μm). Moreover, their mobility is as high as 368 cm2/Vs. Furthermore, the transistors have good output characteristics and can be easily modulated by the back gate. The electrical properties of the MoS2 nanodisc transistors are better than or comparable to those values extracted from single and multilayer MoS2 FETs.
Revealing spatio-spectral electroencephalographic dynamics of musical mode and tempo perception by independent component analysis
Authors: Lin Yuan-Pin , Duann Jeng-Ren , Feng Wenfeng , Chen Jyh-Horng , Jung Tzyy-Ping
Published: February 2014

Background

Music conveys emotion by manipulating musical structures, particularly musical mode- and tempo-impact. The neural correlates of musical mode and tempo perception revealed by electroencephalography (EEG) have not been adequately addressed in the literature.

Method

This study used independent component analysis (ICA) to systematically assess spatio-spectral EEG dynamics associated with the changes of musical mode and tempo.

Results

Empirical results showed that music with major mode augmented delta-band activity over the right sensorimotor cortex, suppressed theta activity over the superior parietal cortex, and moderately suppressed beta activity over the medial frontal cortex, compared to minor-mode music, whereas fast-tempo music engaged significant alpha suppression over the right sensorimotor cortex.

Conclusion

The resultant EEG brain sources were comparable with previous studies obtained by other neuroimaging modalities, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). In conjunction with advanced dry and mobile EEG technology, the EEG results might facilitate the translation from laboratory-oriented research to real-life applications for music therapy, training and entertainment in naturalistic environments.