bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Academic Identity Formation and Motivation Among Ethnic Minority Adolescents: The Role of the “Self” Between Internal and External Perceptions of Identity
Authors: Matthews Jamaal S. , Banerjee Meeta , Lauermann Fani
Published: November 2014

Identity is often studied as a motivational construct within research on adolescent development and education. However, differential dimensions of identity, as a set of internal values versus external perceptions of social belonging, may relate to motivation in distinct ways. Utilizing a sample of 600 African American and Latino adolescents (43% female; mean age = 13.9), the present study examines whether self‐regulated learning (SRL) mediates two distinct dimensions of academic identity (i.e., value and belonging) and mastery orientation. This study also examines whether self‐efficacy moderates the mediating role of SRL between identity and mastery. Results show evidence for moderated mediation between SRL and academic self‐efficacy. Self‐regulated learning played its strongest mediating role between belonging and mastery and for low‐efficacy students specifically.
25‐hydroxyvitamin D3 status is associated with developing adaptive and innate immune responses in the first 6 months of life
Authors: Jones A.P. , D'Vaz N. , Meldrum S. , Palmer D.J. , Zhang G. , Prescott S.L.
Published: November 2014

Background

Vitamin D (25[OH]D3) status in early life has been linked to the risk of allergic disease in multiple observational studies. While immunomodulating properties are well recognized, there are few longitudinal studies of 25(OH)D3 status, immune function and allergic disease in infants.

Objective

To investigate 25(OH)D3 levels at birth [cord blood (CB)] and at 6 months of age in relation to immune function at 6 months of age, and clinical outcomes up to 30 months of age in infants with a maternal history of atopy.

Methods

In a subset of infants (n = 225) enrolled in a RCT (ACTRN12606000281594), 25(OH)D3 levels were assessed in relation to peripheral blood mononuclear cell cytokine responses to house dust mite (HDM), ovalbumin (OVA) and β‐lactoglobulin allergens, or Toll‐like receptor (TLR) ligands (lipopolysaccharide, lipoteichoic acid, polyinosinic : polycytidylic acid and CpG oligonucleotide) at 6 months of age, in addition to clinical outcomes (eczema, wheeze and allergen sensitisation) up to 30 months of age.

Results

Infants with higher 25(OH)D3 at birth (≥ 75 nmol/L, compared with < 50 nmol/L) had lower IL‐5 and IL‐13 responses to HDM by 6 months (P < 0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively). This was also reflected in strong inverse correlations between CB 25(OH)D3 levels and HDM IL‐13 (ρ = −0.57; P = 0.0002) and IL‐5 (ρ = −0.59, P = 0.0001) responses, with a similar trend for IL‐5 (ρ = −0.29; P = 0.009) responses to OVA. For innate stimulations, higher 25(OH)D3 levels at 6 months were associated with greater responses to TLR ligands. Additionally, higher CB 25(OH)D3 was associated with reduced risk eczema at 6 months (P = 0.011) and 12 months (P = 0.034).

Conclusion

This suggests that improving 25(OH)D3 status in pregnancy or early infancy may reduce the development of allergic disease in high‐risk infants by inhibiting cytokine profiles associated with allergy. Results of clinical trials are awaited to determine the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in allergy prevention.
Association of the Smad3 and NFATc2 gene polymorphisms and their serum levels with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis in Polish cohorts
Authors: Paradowska-Gorycka A , Romanowska-Próchnicka K , Haladyj E , Manczak M , Maslinski S , Olesinska M
Published: November 2014

One among many factors involved in induction of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are T cells, the differentiation of which depends upon a unique combination of stimulants and subsequent activation of diverse transcription factors. The aim of this study was to identify polymorphic variants in Smad3 and NFATc2 genes and their possible association with susceptibility to and severity of RA. A total of 272 RA patients, 321 for Smad3 and 304 for nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT)c2 healthy individuals, were examined for rs6494629 C/T and rs2289263 T/G Smad3 and rs880324 NFATc2 gene polymorphisms using the polymerase chain reaction–fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) method and TaqMan single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping assay, respectively. Serum Smad3 and NFATc2 levels in RA patients and controls were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The rs6494629 C/T Smad3 gene polymorphism under the recessive (TT versus CC+CT) and over-dominant (CC+TT versus CT) models were associated with RA (P = 0·014 and P = 0·008, respectively). Smad3 rs2289263 T/G revealed differences in the case–control distribution in co-dominant, recessive and over-dominant models (P = 0·037, P = 0·010, P = 0·034). Overall, rs6494629 C/T and rs2289263 T/G Smad3 gene polymorphisms were in a weak linkage disequilibrium (LD) with D′ = 0·116 and r2 = 0·004. After Bonferroni correction, the genotype–phenotype analysis showed no significant correlation of the Smad3 rs6494629 C/T and rs2289263 T/G and NFATc2 rs2289263 TT polymorphisms with disease activity, joint damage and extra-articular manifestation in RA patients. Serum Smad3 and NFATc2 levels were significantly higher in RA patients than in control groups (both P = 0 0000). The present findings indicated that Smad3 genetic polymorphisms may be associated with the susceptibility to RA in the Polish population.
Long‐term outcome in children with infantile spasms treated with vigabatrin: A cohort of 180 patients
Authors: Djuric Milena , Kravljanac Ruzica , Tadic Biljana , Mrlješ‐Popovic Nataša , Appleton Richard E.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Evaluation of efficacy of vigabatrin as the first drug in infants with previously untreated infantile spasms (IS) and reporting the long‐term outcome.

Methods

We analyzed a cohort of 180 infants with infantile spasms treated with vigabatrin as the first drug. Following initial evaluation and a 48‐h basal period for counting the spasms, vigabatrin was administered using the same protocol in all. After 14 days all infants were assessed for therapeutic response (primary outcome). Psychomotor development was evaluated by a psychologist and neurologist prior to the initiation of treatment and during the follow‐up. Seizure outcomes were followed prospectively, by seizure types and epilepsy syndromes. Long‐term (secondary) outcomes included neurologic status, occurrence of late epilepsy, and developmental/cognitive status.

Results

Vigabatrin terminated the spasms in 101 patients (56.9%) at a mean period of 5 days. Patients with normal psychomotor development prior to the onset of spasms responded best. After follow‐up of 2.4 to 18.9 years (mean 10.64; standard deviation [SD] 4.40), 38.1% of responders, treated with vigabatrin, had severe neurologic dysfunction, 42% had epilepsy, and 42.2% had unfavorable intellectual outcome. The group with symptomatic etiology and abnormal neurologic status at presentation demonstrated a significantly worse prognosis and a more unfavorable outcome than cryptogenic or idiopathic cases (85.1% and 81.6% versus 14.9% and 0%‐p = 0.001). Idiopathic patients treated with vigabatrin were all intellectually normal, except the youngest patient who had borderline cognitive function.

Significance

The most important prognostic factors were the underlying etiology and preexisting developmental profile. Long‐term outcome in the patients treated with vigabatrin was similar to the outcome in patients treated with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or corticosteroids, as reported in earlier studies. The long‐term prognosis of idiopathic cases treated with vigabatrin was favorable.
A review of equine rectal tears and current methods of treatment
Authors: McMaster M. , Caldwell F. , Schumacher J. , McMaster J. , Hanson R.
Published: November 2014

Rectal tears are a risk of rectal palpation during equine clinical examination and can be life‐threatening; prompt medical and surgical intervention is required to improve patient outcome. Depending on the degree of the tear, conservative treatment or surgical management may be warranted. Surgical management involves either direct suturing or faecal diversion techniques, such as colostomy or a temporary indwelling rectal liner. The prognosis for a horse with a rectal tear depends on size of the tear, grade and location of the tear, and time between occurrence and first aid measures.
Effects of year and harvest time within the year on yield and chemical composition of common reed (Phragmites communis Trin.) as ruminant feed
Authors: Asano Keigo , Nakamura Ryo , Araie Ayako , Koike Riri , Takahashi Kohei , Madachi Tatsuya , Ishida Motohiko
Published: November 2014

We conducted a 3‐year experiment to investigate the effects of year and harvest time within the year on the yields and chemical compositions of common reed (Phragmites communis Trin.) as ruminant feed. The first, second and third harvests in each of the 3 years were cut when the grass grew about 1 m tall. Dry matter (DM) yields varied significantly among the years and harvests within individual years (P < 0.05) despite relatively constant herbage growth rates (approximately 11 g DM m−2 day−1). Concentrations of organic cellular contents, crude protein (CP) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) were negatively correlated with the growth duration (P < 0.05), showing a sharp decline when the growth duration exceeded 40 days. Concentrations of organic cell wall and organic b increased with the growth duration (P < 0.05). The results suggest that approximately 1 kg DM m−2 of herbage containing 17% CP and 50% TDN could be produced by harvesting the grass three times annually at intervals of approximately 40 days.
Bile salt export pump: a sensitive and specific immunohistochemical marker of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lagana Stephen M , Salomao Marcela , Remotti Helen E , Knisely A.S. , Moreira Roger K
Published: November 2014

Aims

Bile salt export pump (BSEP) is a transporter expressed exclusively at hepatic canaliculi and drives bile‐salt efflux. Minimal data exist about BSEP expression in tumours. We hypothesized that BSEP immunohistochemistry would be specific for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods and results

Tissue microarrays, including 48 HCC, 41 cholangiocarcinomas and 24 metastatic tumours in liver, were immunostained for BSEP. Expression was compared with common markers of hepatocytic differentiation including CD10, hepatocyte paraffin‐1 antigen (HepPar‐1), carcinoembryonic antigen, arginase‐1 (ARG) and glypican‐3 (GPC‐3). BSEP expression was assessed in normal tissues. Special attention was given to adrenal gland (normal and neoplasia). BSEP was easy to interpret and showed no background staining. Canalicular expression was seen in all normal livers, but not in other normal tissue. BSEP was 90% sensitive and 100% specific for HCC (canalicular in 33 of 43 positive cases). The sensitivity of ARG was slightly higher, but specificity was slightly lower (94% for both). HepPar‐1 was 90% sensitive and 97% specific. CD10, polyclonal carcinoembryonic antigen (pCEA) and GPC‐3 all had lower sensitivity (74, 81 and 54%, respectively).

Conclusions

In malignant tumours in the liver, BSEP marking was 100% specific and 90% sensitive for HCC. The specificity of BSEP for HCC obviates the need to identify a ‘canalicular’ pattern, which can limit the utility of other canalicular markers.
Novel Method of Synthesis of Multiferroic Nickel Cobalt Ferrite–Barium Strontium Titanate Composite System
Authors: Pahuja Poonam , Sharma Richa , Singh Vinamrita , Tandon Ram Pal
Published: November 2014

Multiferroic composites have been prepared by submerging of barium strontium titanate (Ba0.95Sr0.05TiO3) (BST) pellets (sintered at different temperatures) in nickel cobalt ferrite (Ni0.8Co0.2Fe2O4) (NCF) Sol followed by sintering. This method resulted into uniform distribution of small amount of NCF nanoparticles in BST matrix. The presence of NCF within BST pellets has been confirmed by magnetization versus magnetic field loops and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) measurements. Smaller content of NCF in composite samples prepared from submerging method significantly affected dielectric, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric properties. Magnetodielectric effect in composite samples confirmed the presence of magnetoelectric coupling.
Promoting Influence of Doping Indium into BaCe0.5Zr0.3Y0.2O3‐δ as Solid Proton Conductor
Authors: Wang Guangya , Luo Jingli
Published: November 2014

The influence of indium doping on chemical stability, sinterability, and electrical properties of BaCe0.5Zr0.3Y0.2O3‐δ was investigated. The phase purity and the chemical stability of the powders in humid pure CO2 were evaluated by XRD. The dense electrolyte pellets were formed after the calcination at 1450°C for 8 h. SEM images and shrinkage plot showed that the sinterability of the samples was apparently improved by doping indium. The electrical conductivity was measured by impedance test through two‐point method, at both low (200–350°C) and high temperature ranges (450–850°C) in different atmospheres. BaCe0.4Zr0.3In0.1Y0.2O3‐δ has been proved to be the optimal composition which simultaneously maximized the chemical stability, sinterability, and electrical conductivity which reached 1.1 × 10−2 S/cm in wet hydrogen at 700°C, comparing with the 1.3 × 10−2 S/cm for original BaCe0.5Zr0.3Y0.2O3‐δ. Anode support fuel cell with a thin BaCe0.4Zr0.3In0.1Y0.2O3‐δ electrolyte (15 μm) was fabricated by spin coating method. Maximum power density of 0.651 W/cm2 was obtained when operating at 700°C and fed by humid H2 (containing H2O 3 vol%). The obtained fuel cell could efficiently run at 650°C for more than 100 h without any attenuation.
The Global Financial Crisis and Its Impact on Australian Bank Risk
Authors: Bollen Bernard , Skully Michael , Tripe David , Wei Xiaoting
Published: November 2014

This paper examines the global financial crisis (GFC) and its impact on Australian banking risk. An augmented market model is developed to identify changes in listed Australian bank systematic risk in relation to three key events: the GFC's start in August 2007, the market downturn in Australian and global share markets in January 2008, and the announcement of Australia's Deposit and Wholesale Funding Guarantee (DWFG) scheme on 12 October 2008. The study also examines changes in bank systemic risk during these event periods. The Australian market offers a unique opportunity to observe the impact of the introduction of the DWFG in that it lacked any explicit deposit insurance prior to the crisis. Initially, the crisis period had little impact on bank systematic risk while bank systemic risk increased considerably. The share market downturn caused a marked increase in both systematic and systemic risks for Australia's major internationally connected banks followed by a reduction in both systematic and systemic risks with the introduction of the guarantee scheme for all Australian banks.
Parasite evolution in response to sex‐based host heterogeneity in resistance and tolerance
Authors: Cousineau S. V. , Alizon S.
Published: November 2014

Heterogenity between sexes in terms of both the level and the type of immune response to infection is documented in many species, but its role on parasite evolution is only beginning to be explored. We adopt an evolutionary epidemiology approach to study how the ability of a host to respond to infection through active immunity (resistance) or through minimizing deleterious effects of a given parasite load (tolerance) affects the evolution of parasite virulence. Consistently with earlier models, we find that increases in host resistance and tolerance both favour more virulent parasite strains. However, we show that qualitatively different results can be obtained if dimorphism between the sexes occurs through resistance or through tolerance depending on the contact pattern between the sexes. Finally, we find that variations in host sex ratio can amplify the consequences of heterogeneity for parasite evolution. These results are analysed in the light of several examples from the literature to illustrate the prevalence of sexually dimorphic immune responses and the potential for further study of the role of sexual dimorphism on parasite evolution. Such studies are likely to be highly relevant for improving treatment of chronic infections and control of infectious diseases, and understanding the role of sex in immune function.
Evaluating catheter complications and outcomes in patients receiving home parenteral nutrition
Authors: Szeinbach Sheryl L. , Pauline Jessica , Villa Kathleen F. , Commerford S. Renee , Collins Ann , Seoane‐Vazquez Enrique
Published: November 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

We describe catheter complications and outcomes in patients who received home parenteral nutrition (HPN) therapy.

Methods

Retrospective chart data were obtained from Boston Home Infusion agency that provided HPN therapy to 212 patients [International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision (ICD‐9) codes: gastrointestinal (GI)‐related disorders and oncology] between 1 January 2005 and 30 September 2011.

Results

Of the 163 patients who represented 19 104 home‐catheter days, 19 (11.7%) patients experienced 25 catheter complications (CCs; 12 occlusions, 11 central line‐associated bloodstream infections, one thrombosis and one line dislodgment). The overall CC rate was 1.30 per 1000 peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)‐line days. The mean number of PICC‐line days (278.7 ± 335.0 vs. 95.9 ± 154.0) and patients with at least one hospital admission were significantly higher for patients with one or more CCs compared with patients with no CCs (P < 0.03).

Conclusion

Patients who experienced CCs had more PICC‐line days, more hospital admissions and had an ICD‐9 code for GI‐related disorders compared with patients with oncology‐related diagnoses.
Extraction Techniques and Stability of Carotenoprotein from Carrot (Daucus carota L.) Root
Authors: Zhao Qiaojiao , Zhang Weiwei , Wu Yanwen , Ouyang Jie
Published: November 2014

The key technological parameters for the extraction of water‐soluble carotenoprotein from carrot root by enzymatic hydrolysis and partial characteristics of carotenoprotein were studied. The extraction yield of carotenoprotein reached 11.99 μg β‐carotene equivalent/g fresh weight by adding 50 g of chopped carrot into 100 mL of Span 40 solution (0.1%, w/v) followed by homogenizing, then 1.5 g of cellulase and 0.4 g of pectinase were added to hydrolyze at 40C for 120 min, and the mixture was finally treated with sonication for 40 min. Purification was carried out by ammonium sulfate precipitation, followed by Sephadex G‐200 gel chromatography. The molecular weight (MW) of the carotenoprotein was 419 kD and the MWs of subunits were 39, 22 and 15 kD. Stability comparison between water‐soluble carotenoprotein and oil‐soluble carotenoid indicated that the stabilities of carotenoprotein were better than those of carotenoid (P < 0.001), when exposed to light or heat treatments.

Practical Applications

As a kind of natural pigment in plants, carotenoid has many functions, such as antitumor effect, precursor of vitamin A, oxidation resistance and the ability to enhance immune response. Commercial interest of producing carotenoid is increasing too. However, the shelf life of carotenoid achieved by traditional solvent extraction is affected because of bad stability. This paper aimed to extract water‐soluble carotenoprotein from carrot by enzymatic hydrolysis, research the biochemical characteristics of carotenoprotein and compare the stability between carotenoid and carotenoprotein. Optimization of the extraction techniques could be considered as a sustainable alternative method to achieve pigment and improve its stability. We believe that pigment industry can utilize the results of this study in their applications.
Formulation Development of a New Chickpea Gel Using Response Surface Methodology and Instrumental and Sensory Data
Authors: Canet Wenceslao , Jiménez María J. , Fuentes Raúl , Álvarez María D.
Published: November 2014

With increasing emphasis on health and well‐being, nutrition aspects need to be incorporated as a dimension of product development. Currently, Spain's legume intakes are below recommendations. Therefore, a chickpea gel formulation was developed using response surface methodology. Independent variables considered were lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, soymilk and xanthan gum, the first three being commonly included as ingredients of hummus and having known beneficial health effects. Variables were studied according to a rotatable central composite design matrix (−2, −1, 0, +1, +2). Response variables were rheological properties, instrumental texture, color measurements and sensory attributes. The study was extended to find interrelationships. Ingredient effects are predominantly linear, although quadratic effects are also significant in some cases. Lemon juice has the strongest effect, followed by xanthan gum. Improved binding occurs at a high level (≥30 mL) of lemon juice, but results suggest the advisability of reducing acidity to increase product acceptance.

Practical Applications

Developing a chickpea gel may be an effective strategy to increase the daily consumption of legumes. The ability to design and control the desired gel structure is an essential feature to guarantee consumer satisfaction with this product. In order to increase the nutritive value of such gels, incorporation of lemon juice, olive oil and soymilk is important. When designing new healthier foods, one must understand the effect that the increase, reduction or elimination of ingredients may have on final product quality. Response surface methodology was used to define the relationships between responses and composition variables and was used as an effective screening process before consequent acceptance by consumers. Information obtained with this study clearly identified the ingredients content that should be modified to obtain more acceptable chickpea‐based gels, indicating the potential commercial use of this new product. It is expected that this study will help better formulation of textured chickpea products.
Formation and Gelation Role of Serum Protein Aggregates during the Manufacture of Milk Powder
Authors: Li Yan Hua , Wang Wei Jun , Meng Yue Cheng , Chen Jie
Published: November 2014

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of heat‐related processes during the production of milk powder on aggregation of milk proteins and consequent impacts on the coagulation properties. Compared with raw milk, preheating as well as concentration and subsequent dehydration greatly changed serum protein aggregates, sizes of casein micelles and calcium ion activity, and consequently influenced the textural properties of rennet and acid gels. Moreover, the diversities of these physicochemical and gelling properties were also observed among reconstituted milk powder due to the different preheating or concentration. However, the difference in spray‐drying parameters only affected the intensity of some protein aggregates. It was indicated that all these heat‐related processes should be paid attention during milk powder manufacture in order to control acid or rennet coagulation of reconstituted milk powder.

Practical Applications

This study demonstrated the differences in the gelling properties due to the heat‐related processes, i.e., preheating, concentration and spray drying, in the production of milk powder. The information on milk proteins and calcium ion activity would help in understanding their influences on rennet or acid coagulation. The research on the gelling properties of reconstituted milk powder would shed light on the technological application of milk powder such as modification of milk proteins, processing control of milk powder production and suitability of final yogurt or cheese products.
Police on the Front Line of Community Geriatric Health Care: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Brown Rebecca T. , Ahalt Cyrus , Steinman Michael A. , Kruger Kelly , Williams Brie A.
Published: November 2014

As the population ages, police increasingly serve as first responders to incidents involving older adults in which aging‐related health plays a critical role. The goals of this study were to assess police officers' knowledge of aging‐related health, to identify challenges police experience in their encounters with older adults, and to describe their recommendations for how to address those challenges. This was a mixed‐methods study of 141 San Francisco police officers recruited from mandatory police trainings between 2011 and 2013. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze 141 self‐administered questionnaires, and principles of grounded theory were used to analyze open‐ended questionnaire responses and 11 additional qualitative interviews. Eighty‐nine percent of officers reported interacting with older adults at least monthly. Although 84% of police reported prior training in working with older adults, only 32% rated themselves as knowledgeable about aging‐related health. Participants described themselves as first responders to medical and social emergencies involving older adults and identified several challenges, including identifying and responding to aging‐related conditions and ensuring appropriate medical and social service handoffs. To address these challenges, officers recommended developing trainings focused on recognizing and responding to aging‐related conditions and improving police knowledge of community resources for older adults. They also called for enhanced communication and collaboration between police and clinicians. These findings suggest that, because they assume a front‐line role in responding to older adults with complex medical and social needs, many police may benefit from additional knowledge about aging‐related health and community resources. Collaboration between police and healthcare providers presents an important opportunity to develop geriatrics training and interprofessional systems of care to support police work with a rapidly aging population.
A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for quinoxaline‐2‐carboxylic acid in rats, extrapolation to pigs
Authors: Yang X. , Zhou Y.‐F. , Yu Y. , Zhao D.‐H. , Shi W. , Fang B.‐H. , Liu Y.‐H.
Published: November 2014

A multi‐compartment physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to describe the disposition of cyadox (CYX) and its metabolite quinoxaline‐2‐carboxylic acid (QCA) after a single oral administration was developed in rats (200 mg/kg b.w. of CYX). Considering interspecies differences in physiology and physiochemistry, the model efficiency was validated by pharmacokinetic data set in swine. The model included six compartments that were blood, muscle, liver, kidney, adipose, and a combined compartment for the rest of tissues. The model was parameterized using rat plasma and tissue concentration data that were generated from this study. Model simulations were achieved using a commercially available software program (ACSLXLibero version 3.0.2.1). Results supported the validity of the model with simulated tissue concentrations within the range of the observations. The correlation coefficients of the predicted and experimentally determined values for plasma, liver, kidney, adipose, and muscles in rats were 0.98, 0.98, 0.98, 0.99, and 0.95, respectively. The rat model parameters were then extrapolated to pigs to estimate QCA disposition in tissues and validated by tissue concentration of QCA in swine. The correlation coefficients between the predicted and observed values were over 0.90. This model could provide a foundation for developing more reliable pig models once more data are available.
Optimal therapy in hepatitis C virus liver transplant patients with direct acting antivirals
Authors: Coilly Audrey , Roche Bruno , Duclos‐Vallée Jean‐Charles , Samuel Didier
Published: November 2014

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) end stage liver disease is a main indication for liver transplantation (LT). Recurrent HCV always occurs when patients are transplanted with a detectable viral load, leading to cirrhosis in 20–30% of patients within 5 years. Achieving a sustained virological response (SVR) with antiviral treatment is the only way to improve patient and graft survival. Dual therapy based on pegylated interferon and ribavirin (PEG‐IFN/RBV) was the standard of care for many years with limited efficacy and a poor safety profile. The addition of first generation NS3/4 protease inhibitors (PI) improved SVR rates from 30 to 50–60%. But the occurrence of serious adverse events and drug–drug interactions with calcineurin inhibitors have both been limiting factors for their use during LT. The preliminary results of the use of second generation direct acting antivirals (DAA) in transplant patients showed better efficacy with an SVR rate >70%. The pre‐ and post‐transplantation safety profile is good. Although fewer drug–drug interactions are expected, some new DAA still interact with immunosuppressive drugs. Certain questions such as the use of RBV or the optimal duration of therapy have still not been resolved but should be answered by the many ongoing studies in the coming year.
The Role of Income Distribution in the Diffusion of Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: D'Alessandro Simone , Fanelli Domenico
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the link between corporate social responsibility (CSR) growth and income distribution. We present a general equilibrium model where social responsibility enters both firms' and consumers' decisions. At equilibrium, different degrees of CSR diffusion may arise. We study the conditions under which there exists a virtuous circle which ties increases in the diffusion of CSR to reductions in income inequality. Under certain circumstances, any policy which promotes CSR diffusion induces a reduction in income inequality. By contrast, when such conditions are not satisfied, only redistributive policies may generate the virtuous circle.
Mesoporosity changes from cambium to mature tension wood: a new step toward the understanding of maturation stress generation in trees
Authors: Chang Shan‐Shan , Quignard Françoise , Alméras Tancrède , Clair Bruno
Published: November 2014

In order to progress in the understanding of mechanical stress generation, the mesoporosity of the cell wall and its changes during maturation of poplar (Populus deltoides × P. nigra) tension wood (TW) and opposite wood (OW) were measured by nitrogen adsorption–desorption.

Variations in the thickness of the gelatinous layer (G‐layer) were also measured to clarify whether the mesoporosity change simultaneously with the deposition of the G‐layer in TW.

Results show that mesoporous structures of TW and OW were very similar in early development stages before the deposition of G‐layers. With the formation of the S2 layer in OW and the G‐layer in TW, the mesopore volume decreased steeply before lignification. However, in TW only, the decrease in mesopore volume occurred together with the pore shape change and a progressive increase in pore size.

The different patterns observed in TW revealed that pores from G‐layers appear with a different shape compared to those of the compound middle lamella, and their size increases during the maturation process until stabilising in mature wood. This observation strongly supports the hypothesis of the swelling of the G‐layer matrix during maturation as the origin of maturation stress in poplar tension wood.
Photodynamic therapy in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Hongfei , Xu Yuanyuan , Shi Jingpu , Gao Xinghua , Geng Long
Published: November 2014

Background/Purpose

This meta‐analysis was designed to compare the efficacy, cosmetic outcome and safety of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with other procedures for the treatment of primary basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Methods

A computerized search through electronic databases was performed to search for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published before October 2013. Only RCTs that compared PDT to non‐PDT for patients with BCC were selected. The risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results

Eight studies with a total of 1583 patients met the inclusion criteria. PDT was associated with lower complete clearance rate (RR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.89–0.98), higher 1‐year recurrence rate (RR: 12.42, 95% CI: 2.34–66.02) and 5‐year recurrence rate (RR: 6.79, 95% CI: 2.43–18.96) when compared with surgical excision. There was no statistically significant difference in complete clearance rate (RR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85–1.00), 1‐year recurrence rate (RR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.46 to 2.39) or 5‐year recurrence rate (RR: 1.08, 95% CI: 0.62–1.86) when PDT was compared with cryotherapy. PDT had higher complete clearance rate compared with placebo but no statistically significant difference in complete clearance rate and 1‐year recurrence rate when compared with pharmacologic treatment (topical imiquimod and 5‐fluorouracil). PDT had a significantly better cosmetic outcome than surgery and cryotherapy.

Conclusions

PDT is a useful method for the treatment of BCC, more efficient than placebo and with a similar efficiency to cryosurgery and pharmacologic treatment. Even though it is less effective than surgical excision, PDT has cosmetic advantages over surgery and cryosurgery.
Characterization of microRNA expression profiles in Leishmania‐infected human phagocytes
Authors: Geraci N. S. , Tan J. C. , McDowell M. A.
Published: November 2014

Leishmania are intracellular protozoa that influence host immune responses eliciting parasite species‐specific pathologies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short single‐stranded ribonucleic acids that complement gene transcripts to block protein translation and have been shown to regulate immune system molecular mechanisms. Human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (DC) and macrophages (MP) were infected in vitro with Leishmania major or Leishmania donovani parasites. Small RNAs were isolated from total RNA and sequenced to identify mature miRNAs associated with leishmanial infections. Normalized sequence read count profiles revealed a global downregulation in miRNA expression among host cells following infection. Most identified miRNAs were expressed at higher levels in L. donovani‐infected cells relative to L. major‐infected cells. Pathway enrichments using in silico‐predicted gene targets of differentially expressed miRNAs showed evidence of potentially universal MAP kinase signalling pathway effects. Whereas JAK‐STAT and TGF‐β signalling pathways were more highly enriched using targets of miRNAs upregulated in L. donovani‐infected cells, these data provide evidence in support of a selective influence on host cell miRNA expression and regulation in response to differential Leishmania infections.
Neoarchean carbonate–associated sulfate records positive Δ
33
S anomalies
Authors: Paris G. , Adkins J. F. , Sessions A. L. , Webb S. M. , Fischer W. W.
Published: November 2014

Dissecting ancient microbial sulfur cycling

Before the rise of oxygen, life on Earth depended on the marine sulfur cycle. The fractionation of different sulfur isotopes provides clues to which biogeochemical cycles were active long ago (see the Perspective by Ueno). Zhelezinskaia
et al.
found negative isotope anomalies in Archean rocks from Brazil and posit that metabolic fluxes from sulfate-reducing microorganisms influenced the global sulfur cycle, including sulfur in the atmosphere. In contrast, Paris
et al.
found positive isotope anomalies in Archean sediments from South Africa, implying that the marine sulfate pool was more disconnected from atmospheric sulfur. As an analog for the Archean ocean, Crowe
et al.
measured sulfur isotope signatures in modern Lake Matano, Indonesia, and suggest that low seawater sulfate concentrations restricted early microbial activity.

Science
, this issue p.
703
, p.
742
, p.
739
; see also p.
735
Searching for new branches on the tree of life
Authors: Woyke Tanja , Rubin Edward M.
Published: November 2014

Is there undiscovered life that differs fundamentally from that in the three known domains?
Simulations provide a rare look at real melting
Authors: van de Walle Axel
Published: November 2014

Advanced computational methods allow sampling of rare events and reveal multiple pathways in melting of metals

[Also see Report by

Samanta
et al.

]
Local synthesis and disposal
Authors: Shao Sichen , Hegde Ramanujan S.
Published: November 2014

New experimental strategies reveal spatial and temporal features of protein synthesis and degradation in cells

[Also see Research Article by

Jan
et al.

and Reports by

Williams
et al.

and

Foresti
et al.

]
Genetics may foster bugs that keep you thin
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: November 2014

Twin study shows genes influence gut microbiome.
Rare earth
Authors: Tennesen Michael
Published: November 2014

Soil scientists are tracking down rare and endangered soils in a quest to document—and preserve—“pedodiversity.”
Single-cell pharmacokinetic imaging reveals a therapeutic strategy to overcome drug resistance to the microtubule inhibitor eribulin
Authors: Laughney Ashley M. , Kim Eunha , Sprachman Melissa M. , Miller Miles A. , Kohler Rainer H. , Yang Katy S. , Orth James D. , Mitchison Timothy J. , Weissleder Ralph
Published: November 2014

Single-cell pharmacokinetic analysis of a fluorescent eribulin derivative in vivo revealed drug resistance mediated by MDR1-driven efflux, which was overcome by a nanoencapsulated MDR1 inhibitor.
Public Biobanks: Calculation and Recovery of Costs
Authors: Clément Bruno , Yuille Martin , Zaltoukal Kurt , Wichmann Heinz-Erich , Anton Gabriele , Parodi Barbara , Kozera Lukasz , Bréchot Christian , Hofman Paul , Dagher Georges ,   the EU-U.S. Expert Group on cost recovery in biobanks
Published: November 2014

A group of experts aided development of a cost-related tool for biobank access prices and tested it in three partnership models.
The use of an extract ofHypericum perforatumandAzadirachta indicain a neuropathic patient with advanced diabetic foot
Authors: Iabichella Maria Letizia , Caruso Claudio , Lugli Marzia
Published: November 2014

The successful use of an extract ofHypericumflowers(Hypericum perforatum)and nimh oil(Azadirachta indica; Hyperoil) in foot wounds with exposed bone in a patient with bilateral advanced diabetic ulcers, has been reported previously. It was hypothesised that this amelioration was linked with the improved glycaemic control and peripheral microvascular circulation. In this case report, the surprisingly successful outcome of another patient using Hyperoil for infection damaged diabetic foot, without prior use of surgical procedure, is described. The patient had no macrovascular pattern impairment. Diabetic foot healing paralleled with controlled local infection and enhanced glycaemic control. The outcome of this patient suggests that the effectiveness of this inexpensive therapy using Hyperoil for diabetic foot is not only linked with the presence of severe microvascular disorder, but also with the appropriate local treatment for ulcer being a must for its recovery.
Milnor fibers and links of local complete intersections
Authors: Massey David B.
Published: November 2014

There are essentially no previously-known results which show how Milnor fibers, real links, and complex links "detect" the dimension of the singular locus of a local complete intersection. In this paper, we show how a good understanding of the derived category and the perverse t-structure quickly yields such results for local complete intersections with singularities of arbitrary dimension.
On Dolbeault formality and small deformations
Authors: Tomassini Adriano , Torelli Sara
Published: November 2014

We prove that Dolbeault formality, weakly Dolbeault formality and geometrically Dolbeault formality are not stable under small deformations of the complex structure.
On Hartogs extension theorems for separately (⋅, W)-holomorphic functions
Authors: Thai Thuan Quang , Nguyen Van Dai
Published: November 2014

In this paper, we study the holomorphic extension of separately (⋅, W)-holomorphic functions from a product of a [Formula: see text]-regular compact subset in a Stein space with a Stein space to some its neighborhood. At the same time, we generalize the Siciak's result to separately (⋅, W)-holomorphic functions with pluripolar singularities on the crosses.
Pyrethroid as a Substance of Abuse
Authors: Sharma Pravesh , Manning Stephen , Baronia Regina , Mushtaq Saira
Published: November 2014

This is a case of a 22-year-old Hispanic male with a history of bipolar disorder and methamphetamine dependence who was admitted after presenting with suicidal ideations by slashing his throat with a machete. The patient had been smoking and inhaling “processed” pyrethroid for about eight weeks as an inexpensive methamphetamine substitute. He reported experiencing a “rush” similar to methamphetamine after using pyrethroid from liquid insecticide that had been heated (electrocuted) or sprayed on hot metal sheets until it crystallized. The patient presented with no significant physical markings or findings but claimed to have his suicidal ideations precipitated by concerns of ill effects of pyrethroid on his health. He also had positive urine drug screen for methamphetamine, which he admitted to using on the day of admission. We conclude that it is important for physicians to maintain a high level of suspicion for alternate and uncommon substances of abuse as well as risks for suicidal tendencies in these patients.
Psychosocial Determinants of Tobacco Use among School Going Adolescents in Delhi, India
Authors: Kumar Varun , Talwar Richa , Roy Neelam , Raut Deepak , Singh Saudan
Published: November 2014

Background.Tobacco use is one of the major preventable causes of premature death and disease in the world. Many psychosocial factors were found to influence tobacco use. Therefore the present study was designed to determine the role of psychosocial factors associated with tobacco use among school going adolescents in Delhi, India.Methods.Cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2013 to September 2013 in four government schools in South district of Delhi, India. The questionnaire contains questions adapted from GYTS (Global Youth Tobacco Survey) to find the prevalence and pattern of tobacco use among adolescents. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.Results.The prevalence of ever and current tobacco use was found in 16.4% and 13.1%. Current smoking and current tobacco chewing were found in 10.2% and 9.4% students, respectively. The risk of current tobacco use was found to be higher among males (Pvalue = 0.000) and in those who got higher pocket money (Pvalue = 0.000). Psychosocial factors like lower general self-efficacy and maladjustments with peers, teachers, and schools were also found to be significant predictors of current tobacco use.Conclusion.The study has revealed higher prevalence of ever and current tobacco use among adolescent students in Delhi, India.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Psychiatric Comorbidity in a Patient with Charles Bonnet Syndrome
Authors: Chen Jasper J.
Published: November 2014

Background. A significant proportion of patients with neurological disorders may have comorbid psychiatric symptomology, which may be managed by primary outpatient neurologists. Referral to their psychiatric colleagues is mediated by available consultation-liaison units and according to clinical opinion.Aims of Case Report. We present the case of a patient whose initial referral to epilepsy clinic led to a workup which ultimately diagnosed her with nonepileptic seizures (NES). In the course of her follow-up, she developed intractable headaches, and worsening mood symptoms and eventually exhibited Psychotic Features for which psychiatry became coinvolved in her care. Major Depression with Psychotic Features and Charles Bonnet syndrome were considered as a likely comorbid diagnoses. Her pharmacologic management on venlafaxine and quetiapine eventually caused substantial amelioration of her psychiatric symptomology as longitudinally followed by PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores.Conclusion. Optimal evaluation and management of mental illness in patients with complex neurologic symptomology may require independent evaluation and treatment by psychiatrists when clinically appropriate.
Acute Abdomen due to Primary Omental Torsion and Infarction
Authors: Occhionorelli S. , Zese M. , Cappellari L. , Stano R. , Vasquez G.
Published: November 2014

Background. Torsion of greater omentum is a quite uncommon cause of acute abdomen. It can be primary or secondary but in both cases omentum twists upon itself and causes omental segmentary or diffuse necrosis. Symptoms are unspecific and preoperative diagnosis is difficult. The widespread and increasing use of computer tomography (CT) in differential diagnosis of acute abdomen can be useful for making a specific diagnosis.Objectives. This work aims to describe primary omental torsion in order to help avoid misdiagnosis, especially with acute appendicitis, which is eventually based solely on a physical examination.Case Report. We present a case of primary omental torsion in a young man and discuss contemporary methods in diagnosis and management of the condition.Conclusions. When a right diagnosis has been posed, possible treatments for omental torsion and necrosis are two: conservative or surgical. Conservative treatment had been rarely carried out because of frequent and important sequelae just like abdominal abscesses. Nowadays, surgical treatment, laparoscopic or laparotomic, is preferred because it is a safe method in diagnosis and management of this condition.
Multilevel and Urban Health Modeling of Risk Factors for Diabetes Mellitus: A New Insight into Public Health and Preventive Medicine
Authors: Liu Longjian , Núñez Ana E.
Published: November 2014

This study aimed to apply multidisciplinary analysis approaches and test two hypotheses that (1) there was a significant increase in the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) from 2002 to 2010 in the city of Philadelphia and that (2) there were significant variations in the prevalence of DM across neighborhoods, and these variations were significantly related to the variations in the neighborhood physical and social environment (PSE). Data from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Household Health Surveys in 2002–2004 (period 1,n=8,567) and in 2008–2010 (period 2,n=8,747) were analyzed using a cross-sectional comparison approach. An index of neighborhood PSE was constructed from 8 specific measures. The results show that age-adjusted prevalence of DM increased from period 1 (10.20%) to period 2 (11.91%)(P<0.001). After adjusting age, sex, and survey years, an estimate of 12.14%, 18.33%, and 11.89% of the odds ratios for DM was related to the differences in the neighborhood PSE disadvantage, the prevalence of overweight/obesity, and those with lower education attendance, respectively. In conclusion, prevalence of DM significantly increased from 2002 to 2010 in the city of Philadelphia. In addition to risk factors for DM at personal level, neighborhood PSE disadvantage may play a critical role in the risk of DM.