bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenoxybenzamine in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Potential Role and Novel Mechanisms
Authors: Inchiosa Mario A.
Published: December 2013

There is a relatively long history of the use of theα-adrenergic antagonist, phenoxybenzamine, for the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). One form of this syndrome, CRPS I, was originally termed reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) because of an apparent dysregulation of the sympathetic nervous system in the region of an extremity that had been subjected to an injury or surgical procedure. The syndrome develops in the absence of any apparent continuation of the inciting trauma. Hallmarks of the condition are allodynia (pain perceived from a nonpainful stimulus) and hyperalgesia (exaggerated pain response to a painful stimulus). In addition to severe, unremitting burning pain, the affected limb is typically warm and edematous in the early weeks after trauma but then progresses to a primarily cold, dry limb in later weeks and months. The later stages are frequently characterized by changes to skin texture and nail deformities, hypertrichosis, muscle atrophy, and bone demineralization. Earlier treatments of CRPS syndromes were primarily focused on blocking sympathetic outflow to an affected extremity. The use of anα-adrenergic antagonist such as phenoxybenzamine followed from this perspective. However, the current consensus on the etiology of CRPS favors an interpretation of the symptomatology as an evidence of decreased sympathetic activity to the injured limb and a resulting upregulation of adrenergic sensitivity. The clinical use of phenoxybenzamine for the treatment of CRPS is reviewed, and mechanisms of action that include potential immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory effects are presented. Also, a recent study identified phenoxybenzamine as a potential intervention for pain mediation from its effects on gene expression in human cell lines; on this basis, it was tested and found to be capable of reducing pain behavior in a classical animal model of chronic pain.
Metastasis Suppressor KISS1 Seems to Reverse the Warburg Effect by Enhancing Mitochondrial Biogenesis
Authors: Liu Wen , Beck Benjamin H. , Vaidya Kedar S. , Nash Kevin T. , Feeley Kyle P. , Ballinger Scott W. , Pounds Keke M. , Denning Warren L. , Diers Anne R. , Landar Aimee , Dhar Animesh , Iwakuma Tomoo , Welch Danny R.
Published: December 2013

Cancer cells tend to utilize aerobic glycolysis even under normoxic conditions, commonly called the “Warburg effect.” Aerobic glycolysis often directly correlates with malignancy, but its purpose, if any, in metastasis remains unclear. When wild-type KISS1 metastasis suppressor is expressed, aerobic glycolysis decreases and oxidative phosphorylation predominates. However, when KISS1 is missing the secretion signal peptide (ΔSS), invasion and metastasis are no longer suppressed and cells continue to metabolize using aerobic glycolysis. KISS1-expressing cells have 30% to 50% more mitochondrial mass than ΔSS-expressing cells, which are accompanied by correspondingly increased mitochondrial gene expression and higher expression of PGC1α, a master coactivator that regulates mitochondrial mass and metabolism. PGC1α-mediated downstream pathways (i.e., fatty acid synthesis and β-oxidation) are differentially regulated by KISS1, apparently reliant upon direct KISS1 interaction with NRF1, a major transcription factor involved in mitochondrial biogenesis. Since the downstream effects could be reversed using short hairpin RNA to KISS1 or PGC1α, these data appear to directly connect changes in mitochondria mass, cellular glucose metabolism, and metastasis. Cancer Res; 74(3); 954–63. ©2013 AACR.
Distinction between Asymptomatic Monoclonal B-cell Lymphocytosis with Cyclin D1 Overexpression and Mantle Cell Lymphoma: From Molecular Profiling to Flow Cytometry
Authors: Espinet Blanca , Ferrer Ana , Bellosillo Beatriz , Nonell Lara , Salar Antonio , Fernández-Rodríguez Concepción , Puigdecanet Eulàlia , Gimeno Javier , Garcia-Garcia Mar , Vela Maria Carmen , Luño Elisa , Collado Rosa , Navarro José Tomás , de la Banda Esmeralda , Abrisqueta Pau , Arenillas Leonor , Serrano Cristina , Lloreta Josep , Miñana Belén , Cerutti Andrea , Florensa Lourdes , Orfao Alberto , Sanz Ferran , Solé Francesc , Dominguez-Sola David , Serrano Sergio
Published: December 2013

Purpose: According to current diagnostic criteria, mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) encompasses the usual, aggressive variants and rare, nonnodal cases with monoclonal asymptomatic lymphocytosis, cyclin D1–positive (MALD1). We aimed to understand the biology behind this clinical heterogeneity and to identify markers for adequate identification of MALD1 cases.

Experimental Design: We compared 17 typical MCL cases with a homogeneous group of 13 untreated MALD1 cases (median follow-up, 71 months). We conducted gene expression profiling with functional analysis in five MCL and five MALD1. Results were validated in 12 MCL and 8 MALD1 additional cases by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and in 24 MCL and 13 MALD1 cases by flow cytometry. Classification and regression trees strategy was used to generate an algorithm based on CD38 and CD200 expression by flow cytometry.

Results: We found 171 differentially expressed genes with enrichment of neoplastic behavior and cell proliferation signatures in MCL. Conversely, MALD1 was enriched in gene sets related to immune activation and inflammatory responses. CD38 and CD200 were differentially expressed between MCL and MALD1 and confirmed by flow cytometry (median CD38, 89% vs. 14%; median CD200, 0% vs. 24%, respectively). Assessment of both proteins allowed classifying 85% (11 of 13) of MALD1 cases whereas 15% remained unclassified. SOX11 expression by qRT-PCR was significantly different between MCL and MALD1 groups but did not improve the classification.

Conclusion: We show for the first time that MALD1, in contrast to MCL, is characterized by immune activation and driven by inflammatory cues. Assessment of CD38/CD200 by flow cytometry is useful to distinguish most cases of MALD1 from MCL in the clinical setting. MALD1 should be identified and segregated from the current MCL category to avoid overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment. Clin Cancer Res; 20(4); 1007–19. ©2013 AACR.
Perinatal Mortality and Advanced Maternal Age
Authors: Mutz-Dehbalaie Irene , Scheier Matthias , Jerabek-Klestil Susanne , Brantner Christine , Windbichler Gudrun H. , Leitner Hermann , Egle Daniel , Ramoni Angela , Oberaigner Willi
Published: December 2013

Objective: To investigate the impact of advanced maternal age on the rate of perinatal mortality. Design: Retrospective cohort study including all 56,517 singleton hospital deliveries between 1999 and 2008. Methods: Data were analyzed according to maternal age at delivery in 3 groups of women, 25-34 years, 35-39 years and ≥40 years, using the youngest as the reference group. Results: Odds ratios (ORs) for antenatal deaths were 0.98 (CI: 0.67-1.43) and 2.57 (CI: 1.57-4.22) for age groups 35-39 years and ≥40 years, respectively. Significant differences in neonatal mortality rates between the age groups were not found. Significant amendable risk factors were attendance of <4 health care visits (OR = 15.55, CI: 9.47-25.51 in age group 35-39 years; OR = 16.38, CI: 9.78-27.43 in the age group ≥40 years) and obesity (OR = 1.85, CI: 1.27-2.70 in age group 35-39 years; OR = 1.83, CI: 1.22-2.74 in the age group ≥40 years). In the multivariate regression analysis, the adjusted ORs for perinatal mortality were 1.03 (95% CI: 0.77-1.39) and 1.66 (95% CI: 1.03-2.66) for age groups 35-39 and ≥40, respectively. Conclusions: Women older than 40 years carry an increased risk for stillbirth. Important amendable risk factors are obesity and poor antenatal care.
Controlled type II diabetes mellitus has no major influence on platelet micro-RNA expression
Authors: Nührenberg Thomas , Fiebich Bernd L. , Amann Michael , Kumar Asit , Binder Harald , Hoffmann Isabell , Valina Christian , Hochholzer Willibald , Trenk Dietmar , Neumann Franz-Josef , Stratz Christian
Published: December 2013

Diabetes mellitus as a major contributor to cardiovascular disease burden induces dysfunctional platelets. Platelets contain abundant miRNAs, which are linked to inflammatory responses and, thus, may play a role in atherogenesis. While diabetes mellitus affects plasma miRNAs, no data exist on platelet miRNA profiles in this disease. Therefore, this study sought to explore the miRNA profile of platelets in patients with diabetes mellitus that is unrelated to the presence or absence of coronary artery disease (CAD). Platelet miRNA profiles were assessed in stable diabetic and non-diabetic patients (each n=30); 15 patients in each group had CAD. Platelet miRNA was isolated from leucocyte-depleted platelet-rich plasma, and miRNA profiling was performed using LNA micro-array technology (miRBase18.0, containing 1,917 human miRNAs). Effects of diabetes mellitus were explored by univariate statistical tests for each miRNA, adjusted for potential confounders, and by developing a multivariable signature; evaluated by resampling techniques. Platelets in non-diabetic patients demonstrated miRNA expression profiles comparable to previous data. The miRNA profiles of platelets in diabetics were similar. Statistical analysis unveiled three miRNAs (miR-377–5p, miR-628–3p, miR-3137) with high reselection probabilities in resampling techniques, corresponding to signatures with modest discriminatory performance. Functional annotation of predicted targets for these miRNAs pointed towards an influence of diabetes mellitus on mRNA processing. We did not find major differences in platelet miRNA profiles between diabetics and non-diabetics. Minor differences pertained to miRNAs associated with mRNA processing. Thus, described differences in plasma miRNAs between diabetic and non-diabetic patients cannot be explained by plain changes in platelet miRNA profile.
Long-Term Results of Intensified, N-Terminal-Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide–Guided Versus Symptom-Guided Treatment in Elderly Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Sanders-van Wijk Sandra , Maeder Micha T. , Nietlispach Fabian , Rickli Hans , Estlinbaum Werner , Erne Paul , Rickenbacher Peter , Peter Martin , Pfisterer Matthias P. , Brunner-La Rocca Hans-Peter
Published: December 2013

Background—

Therapy guided by N-terminal-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels may improve outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure (HF), especially in younger patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. It remains unclear whether treatment effects persist after discontinuation of the NT-proBNP–guided treatment strategy.

Methods and Results—

Trial of Intensified versus standard Medical therapy in Elderly patients with Congestive Heart Failure randomized 499 patients with HF aged ≥60 years with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤45% to intensified, NT-proBNP–guided versus standard, symptom-guided therapy into prespecified age groups (60–74 and ≥75 years) during 18 months. A total of 329 patients (92%) alive at 18 months agreed to long-term follow-up. HF medication was intensified to a larger extent in the NT-proBNP–guided group. During long-term, NT-proBNP–guided therapy did not improve hospital-free (primary end point: hazard ratio, 0.87; 95% confidence interval, 0.71–1.06;
P
=0.16) or overall survival (hazard ratio, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.64–1.13;
P
=0.25) but did improve HF hospitalization-free survival (hazard ratio, 0.70; 95% confidence interval, 0.55–0.90;
P
=0.005). Patients aged 60 to 74 years had benefit from NT-proBNP–guided therapy on the primary end point and HF hospitalization-free survival, whereas patients aged ≥75 years did not (
P
<0.10 for interaction). In landmark analysis, there was no regression to the mean after cessation of the NT-proBNP–guided strategy. More intensified HF medication at month 12 was associated with better long-term HF hospitalization-free and overall survival.

Conclusions—

Intensified, NT-proBNP–guided therapy did not improve the primary end point compared with symptom-guided therapy but did improve HF hospitalization-free survival. Within the subgroup of patients aged 60 to 74 years, it improved clinical outcome including the primary end point. These effects did not disappear after cessation of the NT-proBNP–guided strategy on the long-term. This is possibly attributable to a more intensified HF medical therapy in the NT-proBNP–guided group.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.isrctn.org
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN43596477.
Circulating and Dietary Omega‐3 and Omega‐6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Incidence of CVD in the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: de Oliveira Otto Marcia C. , Wu Jason H. Y. , Baylin Ana , Vaidya Dhananjay , Rich Stephen S. , Tsai Michael Y. , Jacobs David R. , Mozaffarian Dariush
Published: December 2013

Background

Dietary guidelines support intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (
PUFA
s) in fish and vegetable oils. However, some controversy remains about benefits of
PUFA
s, and most prior studies have relied on self‐reported dietary assessment in relatively homogeneous populations.

Methods and Results

In a multiethnic cohort of 2837
US
adults (whites, Hispanics,
A
frican
A
mericans,
C
hinese
A
mericans), plasma phospholipid
PUFA
s were measured at baseline (2000–2002) using gas chromatography and dietary
PUFA
s estimated using a food frequency questionnaire. Incident cardiovascular disease (
CVD
) events (including coronary heart disease and stroke; n=189) were prospectively identified through 2010 during 19 778 person‐years of follow‐up. In multivariable‐adjusted Cox models, circulating n‐3 eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid were inversely associated with incident
CVD
, with extreme‐quartile hazard ratios (95%
CI
s) of 0.49 for eicosapentaenoic acid (0.30 to 0.79;
P
trend
=0.01) and 0.39 for docosahexaenoic acid (0.22 to 0.67;
P
trend
<0.001). n‐3 Docosapentaenoic acid (
DPA
) was inversely associated with
CVD
in whites and
C
hinese, but not in other race/ethnicities (
P
‐interaction=0.01). No significant associations with
CVD
were observed for circulating n‐3 alpha‐linolenic acid or n‐6
PUFA
(linoleic acid, arachidonic acid). Associations with
CVD
of self‐reported dietary
PUFA
were consistent with those of the
PUFA
biomarkers. All associations were similar across racial‐ethnic groups, except those of docosapentaenoic acid.

Conclusions

Both dietary and circulating eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, but not alpha‐linolenic acid or n‐6
PUFA
, were inversely associated with
CVD
incidence. These findings suggest that increased consumption of n‐3
PUFA
from seafood may prevent
CVD
development in a multiethnic population.
On three monotypic nursery web spider genera from Madagascar with first description of the male of Tallonia picta Simon, 1889 and redescription of the type-species of Paracladycnis Blandin, 1979 and Thalassiopsis Roewer, 1955 (Araneae: Lycosoidea: Pisauridae)
Authors: DA SILVA ESTEVAM L. CRUZ , SIERWALD PETRA
Published: December 2013

With 333 described species, the Pisauridae is a moderately species-rich spider family. The family is world wide in distribution and its members exhibit an exceptionally wide range of foraging and prey capture behavior, from web-based hunters, water surface hunters to ambusher hunters in the vegetation. While some pisaurid genera are diverse, boasting numerous species, such as Dolomedes with 96 described species, nearly half of pisaurid genera (22/48) are monotypic (Platnick 2013). Recent collecting and biodiversity research has uncovered several new species, especially from heretofore poorly collected regions in Africa (including Madagascar) and Asia (e.g. Jaeger 2011, Jocqué 1994). Initial steps have been undertaken to develop a phylogenetic framework for parts of the family, e.g., Sierwald 1987; Santos 2007. However, no phylogenetic analysis exists that includes a representatively wide range of genera. The clade Pisaurinae (see Sierwald 1997) appears to be well supported by morphological characters, while the relationships among non-pisaurine genera remain uncertain.
The Neotropical chloropine genus Ischnochlorops Paganelli 2002 (Diptera: Chloropidae), with the description of a new species
Authors: RAILE RICCARDI PAULA , DE SOUZA AMORIM DALTON
Published: December 2013

A new species is described for the Neotropical genus Ischnochlorops Paganelli (Diptera: Chloropidae), so far known only from the type-species, I. trilineatus Paganelli. The type-species is redescribed based on an additional male from the State of Paraná. A new species, I. lefevrei sp. nov., from Campos do Jordão, State of São Paulo, Brazil, is described. An emended diagnosis is proposed for Ischnochlorops and a key to the species is provided. Photographs of the habitus, head, and wing of both species are provided, as well as drawings of the male terminalia.
Aircraft Observations of the Marine Boundary Layer Adjustment near Point Arguello, California
Authors: Parish Thomas R. , Rahn David A. , Leon Dave
Published: December 2013

Northerly winds set up by synoptic conditions are persistent in the marine boundary layer (MBL) off the California coast from late spring through summer. Wind, pressure, and MBL height are modulated as the low-level flow impinges on the points and capes along the California coast. The Precision Atmospheric Marine Boundary Layer Experiment was conducted in May and June of 2012 with the primary goal to directly measure the dynamics responsible for the wind field near Point Arguello and Point Conception. Detailed measurements of the horizontal pressure field within the MBL were made using the University of Wyoming King Air research aircraft. Airborne measurements made during cases of strong northerly wind show an abrupt adjustment of the MBL near Point Arguello, including a modulation of the horizontal pressure gradient force and a near collapse of the MBL. Airborne lidar measurements complement measurements of the horizontal pressure field and help to elucidate the large changes in the MBL height in the vicinity of Point Arguello. The Weather Research and Forecasting Model was used to simulate the 20 May 2012 case at a high resolution. Model results showed large-amplitude height perturbations near Point Arguello, similar to those observed from the airborne platform. In this case, the offshore flow played an important role in the local forcing.
Assessing the Twenty-First-Century Shift in ENSO Variability in Terms of the Bjerknes Stability Index*
Authors: Lübbecke Joke F. , McPhaden Michael J.
Published: December 2013

A decadal change in the character of ENSO was observed around year 2000 toward weaker-amplitude, higher-frequency events with an increased occurrence of central Pacific El Niños. Here these changes are assessed in terms of the Bjerknes stability index (BJ index), which is a measure of the growth rate of ENSO-related SST anomalies. The individual terms of the index are calculated from ocean reanalysis products separately for the time periods 1980–99 and 2000–10. The spread between the products is large, but they show a robust weakening of the thermocline feedback due to a reduced thermocline slope response to anomalous zonal wind stress as well as a weakened wind stress response to eastern equatorial Pacific SST anomalies. These changes are consistent with changes in the background state of the tropical Pacific: cooler mean SST in the eastern and central equatorial Pacific results in reduced convection there together with a westward shift in the ascending branch of the Walker circulation. This shift leads to a weakening in the relationship between eastern Pacific SST and longitudinally averaged equatorial zonal wind stress. Also, despite a steeper mean thermocline slope in the more recent period, the thermocline slope response to wind stress anomalies weakened due to a smaller zonal wind fetch that results from ENSO-related wind anomalies being more confined to the western basin. As a result, the total BJ index is more negative, corresponding to a more strongly damped system in the past decade compared to the 1980s and 1990s.
A Comparison of OLR and Circulation-Based Indices for Tracking the MJO
Authors: Kiladis George N. , Dias Juliana , Straub Katherine H. , Wheeler Matthew C. , Tulich Stefan N. , Kikuchi Kazuyoshi , Weickmann Klaus M. , Ventrice Michael J.
Published: December 2013

Two univariate indices of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) based on outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) are developed to track the convective component of the MJO while taking into account the seasonal cycle. These are compared with the all-season Real-time Multivariate MJO (RMM) index of Wheeler and Hendon derived from a multivariate EOF of circulation and OLR. The gross features of the OLR and circulation of composite MJOs are similar regardless of the index, although RMM is characterized by stronger circulation. Diversity in the amplitude and phase of individual MJO events between the indices is much more evident; this is demonstrated using examples from the Dynamics of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (DYNAMO) field campaign and the Year of Tropical Convection (YOTC) virtual campaign. The use of different indices can lead to quite disparate conclusions concerning MJO timing and strength, and even as to whether or not an MJO has occurred. A disadvantage of using daily OLR as an EOF basis is that it is a much noisier field than the large-scale circulation, and filtering is necessary to obtain stable results through the annual cycle. While a drawback of filtering is that it cannot be done in real time, a reasonable approximation to the original fully filtered index can be obtained by following an endpoint smoothing method. When the convective signal is of primary interest, the authors advocate the use of satellite-based metrics for retrospective analysis of the MJO for individual cases, as well as for the analysis of model skill in initiating and evolving the MJO.
Identification of molecular species of cholesteryl ester hydroperoxides in very low-density and intermediate-density lipoproteins
Authors: Shrestha Rojeet , Hui Shu-Ping , Sakurai Toshihiro , Yagi Akiko , Takahashi Yuji , Takeda Seiji , Jin Shigeki , Fuda Hirotoshi , Chiba Hitoshi
Published: December 2013

Background

Oxidation of lipoproteins is thought to play a crucial role in atherogenesis. Role for triglyceride-rich lipoproteins in atherogenesis is unclear. Thus, we aimed to investigate whether cholesteryl ester hydroperoxides (CEOOH) are present in very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL) by using highly sensitive liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.

Methods

Total lipids were extracted from the plasma of healthy donors ( n = 6) and their fractions of VLDL and IDL. Additional three plasma samples were analysed freshly for CEOOH. Detection and identification of CEOOH was conducted by liquid chromatography/LTQ ion trap mass spectrometry/Orbitrap high mass accuracy mass spectrometry. Authentic standards of CEOOH were used for unequivocal identification on the basis of their mass spectra.

Results

We identified six molecular CEOOH species overall, namely, Ch18:1-OOH, Ch18:2-OOH, Ch18:3-OOH, Ch20:4-OOH, Ch20:5-OOH and Ch22:6-OOH. Of them, Ch18:2-OOH, Ch20:5-OOH, Ch20:4-OOH and Ch22:6-OOH were detected in all IDL samples, while only Ch20:4-OOH was detected in all VLDL samples. All of CEOOH species except for Ch18:3-OOH were detected in plasma, with constant detection of Ch20:5-OOH, and Ch22:6-OOH in all plasma samples.

Conclusion

The presence of CEOOH species in VLDL and IDL was confirmed with the analytical sensitivity of 0.1 pmol, showing the constant appearance of more CEOOH species in IDL than VLDL. This finding might add biochemical evidences of atherogenicity of these lipoproteins. Clinical utility of measuring CEOOH level in these lipoproteins need to be investigated for the risk assessment of the cardiovascular disease.
Do ‘cultures of life satisfaction’ travel?
Authors: Voicu Bogdan , Vasile Marian
Published: December 2013

This article explains the variation in the life satisfaction of international migrants across Europe using the idea of the cultural embeddedness of subjective well-being, expressed in various approaches such as social comparison theory, the Easterlin paradox and Cummins’ (2003) assumption of normativeness. The authors claim that immigrants’ levels of life satisfaction will be the subject of a dual contextuality. First, the cultural heritage of the country of origin has a pervasive influence long after migration. Second, a permanent upward adjustment is likely to occur toward the average level of life satisfaction in the country of current residence. Additional interaction effects, namely the impact of cultural distance and exposure to the two relevant cultures, are also considered. For testing, the authors employ multilevel cross-classified models on data from the 2008 wave of the European Values Study. The findings indicate that both origin and host societies provide relevant contextual frameworks and mould immigrants’ life satisfaction.
‘Difficulties come to humans and not trees and they need to be faced’: A study on resilience among Indian women experiencing intimate partner violence
Authors: Shanthakumari R Shobitha , Chandra Prabha S , Riazantseva Ekaterina , Stewart Donna E
Published: December 2013

Background:

Not much is known about factors that contribute to resilience among women facing intimate partner violence (IPV), particularly from countries where patriarchy predominates. This qualitative study aimed to gather the perspectives of Indian women self-identified as resilient in the face of IPV and tried to understand the strategies and resources that helped them to maintain or regain resilience.

Materials:

Data were collected from 16 consenting women who reported IPV and whose husbands were being treated for alcohol problems at a psychiatric centre in Bangalore, India. A semi-structured guided interview format that aimed at understanding factors that enabled them to feel resilient despite IPV in their challenging circumstances was used to gather narratives from the participants.

Discussion:

Six themes were identified using QSR NVivo software. They were as follows: the support of women, men and family; personal attributes; dignity and work; being strong for the children; and faith in God. Among these women, supportive social networks, personal attributes and aspirations were major clusters contributing to resilience.

Conclusion:

Attention to these factors may provide an important, strengths-based perspective for interventions to enhance women’s resilience when facing IPV.
Criminogenic Facilities and Crime across Street Segments in Philadelphia
Authors: Groff Elizabeth R. , Lockwood Brian
Published: December 2013

Objectives:

Test whether the exposure of street segments to five different potentially criminogenic facilities is positively related to violent, property, or disorder crime counts controlling for sociodemographic context. The geographic extent of the relationship is also explored.

Method:

Facility exposure is operationalized as total inverse distance from each street segment in Philadelphia, PA, to surrounding facilities within three threshold distances of 400, 800, and 1,200 feet. All distances are measured using shortest path street distance. Census block group data representing ethnic heterogeneity, concentrated disadvantage, and stability are proportionally allocated to each street block. Negative binomial regression is used to model the relationships.

Results:

Exposure to bars and subway stations was positively associated with violent, property, and disorder crime at all distance thresholds from street segments. Schools were associated with disorder offenses at all distance thresholds. The effects of exposure to halfway houses and drug treatment centers varied by distance and by crime type.

Conclusions:

Facilities have a significant effect on crime at nearby places even controlling for sociodemographic variables. The geographic extent of a facility’s criminogenic influence varies by type of facility and type of crime. Future research should examine additional types of facilities and include information about place management.
The Higher Whitewash
Authors: Fuller Steve
Published: December 2013

An assessment of Joel Isaac’s recent, well-researched attempt to provide a context for the emergence of Kuhn’s The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. That context consisted in the open space for cross-disciplinary projects between the natural and social sciences that existed at Harvard during the presidency of James Bryant Conant, from the early 1930s to the early 1950s. Isaac’s work at the Harvard archives adds interesting detail to a story whose general contours are already known. In particular, he reinforces the view that the guiding intellectual presence of what Isaac dubs Harvard’s “interstitial academy” was the biochemist Lawrence Henderson, someone who was enamored of Vilfredo Pareto’s version of scientism and was materially supported by the Rockefeller Foundation’s interest in increasing worker productivity. Isaac fails to consider the normative implications of Henderson’s vision, which influenced Talcott Parsons even more deeply than Kuhn. Isaac’s book is read in light of this concern, which reveals a profound sense of what is required of the sort of future elite policy maker that Harvard hoped to train: namely, a systems-based orientation that is at the same time tolerant of considerable intrasystemic incommensurability. The epistemological and ethical aspects of this prescription are analyzed.
Response Category Width as a Psychophysical Manifestation of Construal Level and Distance
Authors: Krüger Tobias , Fiedler Klaus , Koch Alex Stefan , Alves Hans
Published: December 2013

The present research suggests that people adjust their mental response scales to an object’s distance and construal level. People make use of wider response categories when they judge distant and abstract as compared with close and concrete stimuli. Across five experiments, participants worked on visual and verbal estimation problems (e.g., length or quantity judgments). Answers were provided in interval format, and differences between minimal and maximal estimates served as a measure of response category width. When target objects were framed as spatially distant rather than close (Studies 1 and 3), as unlikely rather than likely (Study 2), and as abstract rather than concrete (Study 4), category widths increased. Similarly, priming a high-level rather than a low-level mindset yielded wider interval estimates (Study 5). The general discussion highlights the usefulness of category width as a basic measure of construal level and as a theoretical link between various branches of construal-level theory.
Metformin Reduces TGF‐β1–Induced Extracellular Matrix Production in Nasal Polyp–Derived Fibroblasts
Authors: Park Il‐Ho , Um Ji‐Young , Hong Sung‐Moon , Cho Jung‐Sun , Lee Seung Hoon , Lee Sang Hag , Lee Heung‐Man
Published: December 2013

Background and Objects

Metformin is widely used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, and adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) is thought to be the target that mediates its effects. Recently, it has been demonstrated that metformin has antifibrotic effects beyond its antihyperglycemic action. The purposes of this study were to investigate the effect of metformin on TGF‐β1–induced myofibroblast differentiation (α‐smooth muscle actin [α‐SMA]) and extracellular matrix (ECM) production and to determine the underlying mechanism of the action of metformin in nasal polyp–derived fibroblasts (NPDFs).

Study Design

Basic research.

Setting

The rhinology laboratory of Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea.

Methods

NPDFs from 7 patients were incubated with TGF‐β1 and treated with metformin or compound C, an inhibitor of AMPK. To determine the proliferation rate of nasal fibroblasts, a 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay was performed. The expression levels of α‐SMA and fibronectin were determined by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), Western blotting, and immunofluorescent staining. Phosphorylation of AMPK and phosphorylation of Smad2/3 were evaluated by Western blot analysis.

Results

In TGF‐β1–induced NPDFs, metformin inhibited the expression of α‐SMA and fibronectin, as confirmed by both RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis. Metformin increased the phosphorylation of AMPK and the expression levels of α‐SMA and fibronectin. However, compound C reversed these effects. Metformin inhibited TGF‐β1–induced phosphorylation of Smad2/3.

Conclusions

This study showed that metformin inhibits TGF‐β1–induced myofibroblast differentiation and ECM production in NPDFs via the Smad2/3 pathway. AMPK can be a therapeutic target for the prevention of ECM remodeling in nasal polyps.
Passion for life
Authors: Sheets Virgil L.
Published: December 2013

It is commonly believed that passionate love diminishes over time even as companionate love may grow. According to the self-expansion model (Aron and Aron (1986) Love and the expansion of the self: Understanding attraction and satisfaction. New York, NY: Hemisphere Publishing Co/Harper & Row Publishers), this change may reflect changes in opportunities for self-expansion in the relationship. Early in relationships, as partners continuously learn new things about each other, self-expansion—which occurs through the integration of the qualities and characteristics of the partner into oneself—generates passion for one’s partner. Later, as one’s partner is completely included in the self, self-expansion opportunities diminish and less passion is generated. From this perspective, if self-expansion could be sustained, so could passionate love. Over 500 adults in a Midwestern community responded to a telephone survey about their romantic relationship. They answered questions about the length of their relationship, experiences of self-expansion within their relationship, passionate love—including both romantic and obsessive components—and companionate love. As expected, people in longer lasting relationships reported lower levels of self-expansion within their relationships. Romantic and obsessive components of passionate love showed different patterns across time in relationship, but both were positively associated with self-expansion experiences as expected by the model. Self-expansion was unrelated to companionate love. Broadly consistent with the self-expansion model, these findings highlight a need for further theoretical development to explain the specific linkages of self-expansion with different components of passion.
Resolution of sleepiness and fatigue: A comparison of bupropion and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in subjects with major depressive disorder achieving remission at doses approved in the European Union
Authors: Cooper James A , Tucker Vivian L , Papakostas George I
Published: December 2013

Unlike selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), bupropion may be classified as a dual noradrenaline and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, a difference with potential implications for the treatment of residual sleepiness and fatigue in major depressive disorder (MDD). Post-hoc analysis of subjects with remitted MDD was performed on data pooled from six double-blind, randomized trials comparing the European Union (EU)-approved dose of ≤300 mg/day bupropion with SSRIs (sertraline, paroxetine or escitalopram) for the resolution of sleepiness and fatigue. Hypersomnia score was defined as the sum of scores of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) items 22, 23, and 24; fatigue score as HDRS item 13 score; and remission as HDRS-17≤7. Similar proportions of bupropion- and SSRI-treated subjects achieved remission at study endpoint (169/343, 49.3% vs 324/656, 49.4%; last observation carried forward (LOCF), p=0.45). Fewer bupropion-treated remitters had residual symptoms of sleepiness (32/169, 18.9% vs 104/324, 32.1%; p<0.01) and fatigue (33/169, 19.5% vs 98/324, 30.2%; p<0.05). Bupropion-treated remitters also showed greater improvement (mean change from baseline) in sleepiness ( p<0.05) and fatigue scores ( p<0.01) at endpoint: benefits were evident from week 2 for sleepiness ( p<0.01) and week 4 for fatigue ( p<0.01). Bupropion treatment at the EU-approved dose of ≤300 mg/day may offer advantages over SSRIs in the resolution of sleepiness and fatigue in remitted MDD patients.
Hollow spherical micro/meso-porous silica structure by nanospherical sacrificial polystyrene templates
Authors: Esfandabadi Sara Maleki , Pourmahdian Saeed , Khoshkhoo Mahdi Samadi
Published: December 2013

In this study, spherical polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles having a negative surface charge were synthesized by polymerization of a miniemulsion containing styrene monomer, normal hexadecane (HD) as hydrophobic agent, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as anionic emulsifier, sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) as buffer, and water soluble potassium persulfate (KPS) as initiator. The effects of three important parameters (surfactant, cosurfactant, and initiator) on particle size and size distribution were contemporaneously investigated. The particle size and size distribution was measured using dynamic light scattering (DLS). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images were also taken from the corresponding latexes to confirm the results. The produced polystyrene particles were coated by silica via sol-gel process in which tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) precursor, ethanol, hydrochloric acid, and water were employed to carry out hydrolyzation/condensation process. Using ultra-high speed centrifugation, a closely packed assembly of particles resulted which were subjected to calcination process to form hallow spherical micro/meso-porous silica structure. The average pore diameters of the micro and meso pores were 2–3 nm and 25–30 nm, respectively, as determined by nitrogen sorption isotherms. The specific surface of the porous sample was also measured by Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) method to be 554.74 m2/g that is well suited for catalyst support applications. In the end, the produced catalyst support was used to form ziegler-natta catalyst. By using the produced catalyst via prepolymerization and slurry polymerization at 70℃, polypropylene was polymerized from propylene.
Comparison between coconut and curaua fibers chemically treated for compatibility with PP matrixes
Authors: Oliveira Priscila F de , Marques Maria de Fátima V
Published: December 2013

Green coconut husk and curaua fibers were submitted to different chemical treatments—acid or alkaline followed by reaction with a silane compound—to improve compatibility between fiber and polypropylene (PP) matrix, in order to obtain composites with better properties than those of pure PP matrix for use as engineering materials. Fiber samples were analyzed before and after treatments to study the effects on thermal stability and morphology. The results showed that the crystallinity index and heat resistance significantly increased when the alkaline treatment followed by silane reaction was applied to both fibers. In this case, the crystallinity index increased from 53% in the coconut fiber in natura to 67% in the treated fiber. Regarding curaua fiber, the increase was from 61% to 81%. The degradation onset temperature of coconut fiber increased from 255℃ to 272℃ and of curaua fiber from 275℃ to 314℃. The treated fibers were mixed with a commercial PP matrix in a twin-screw mini-extruder at 180℃. The composites were analyzed by SEM to observe the compatibility between cellulose fibers and PP matrix.
A New Self-Report Quality of Life Questionnaire for Children With Neuromuscular Disorders
Authors: Orcesi Simona , Ariaudo Giada , Mercuri Eugenio , Beghi Ettore , Rezzani Cristiana , Balottin Umberto
Published: December 2013

Improvement of quality of life in neuromuscular disorders is a primary objective, both in management of affected children and in the context of therapeutic trials. Quality of life is a subjective concept and it is crucial to gather information directly from patients. We created the SOLE Questionnaire for NMDs, a new instrument designed to investigate quality of life in children with neuromuscular disorders, and tested it in a study population of 78 patients and in 81 healthy children aged 5 to 13 years. The SOLE Questionnaire, characterized by a visual and neutral approach, was well received, practical, rapid to administer, and able to discriminate between patients and controls. We also confirmed the presence of disagreement about children’s quality of life between children and their parents. We suggest that our new approach could help to improve understanding of quality of life in children with neuromuscular disorders.
Exclusive Breastfeeding among Canadian Inuit
Authors: McIsaac Kathryn E. , Lou Wendy , Sellen Daniel , Young T. Kue
Published: December 2013

Background:

Very little population-based research has been conducted around the exclusive breastfeeding practices of Inuit Canadians.

Objectives:

This research aims to assess the distribution of exclusive breastfeeding among Inuit Canadians and to identify factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding as recommended.

Methods:

We use data from 188 infant-mother dyads who completed the Nunavut Inuit Child Health Survey, a cross-sectional, population-based survey of Inuit children aged 3 to 5 years. A series of multinomial logistic regression models were run to identify factors associated with 4 exclusive breastfeeding durations (≤ 1 month, > 1-< 5.5 months, 5.5-6.5 months, and > 6.5 months).

Results:

Of infants, 23% were exclusively breastfed as recommended (ie, between 5.5 and 6.5 months; 95% CI, 16.2-29.3). Many infants (61%) were exclusively breastfed for less than 5.5 months and 16% (95% CI, 10.9-22.0) were exclusively breastfed for more than 6.5 months. Families receiving income support were less likely to discontinue exclusive breastfeeding before 5.5 months (pOR1- < 5.5 months = 0.34; 95% CI, 0.13, 0.85) relative to those not receiving income support, in adjusted models. No other measured factors were significantly related to exclusive breastfeeding duration.

Conclusions:

The majority of Inuit Canadian infants receive suboptimal exclusive breastfeeding. National, provincial, and community-specific interventions to protect, promote, and support exclusive breastfeeding should emphasize not only the benefits of exclusively breastfeeding to 6 months but also the importance of timely introduction of complementary foods into the infant’s diet.
Body Composition Changes in the First 6 Months of Life According to Method of Feeding
Authors: Giannì Maria Lorella , Roggero Paola , Orsi Anna , Piemontese Pasqua , Garbarino Francesca , Bracco Beatrice , Garavaglia Elisa , Agosti Massimo , Mosca Fabio
Published: December 2013

Background:

Early feeding choices may affect long-term health outcomes. Therefore, understanding body composition changes in healthy breastfed infants has become an important research focus.

Objectives:

The aims of this review were to investigate the body composition changes that occur during weight loss in breastfed term newborns and to examine body composition differences between exclusively/predominantly breastfed and exclusively formula-fed infants in the first 6 months of life.

Methods:

We performed a review of the existing literature using PubMed. We searched for studies published in English since January 1, 2000, that involved human infants ranging in age from birth to 6 months. We used the following MEDLINE Medical Subject Headings: ((breastfeeding) OR (infant formula)) AND ((body composition) OR (bioelectrical impedance) OR (absorptiometry, photon) OR (total body potassium) OR (isotope dilution) OR (air-displacement plethysmography)). Our search yielded 6 studies.

Results:

Two studies reported that newborn weight loss was due to a reduction in the quantity of both fat mass and fat-free mass. Three out of 4 articles that evaluated body composition changes according to method of feeding reported no differences in body composition between exclusively/predominantly breastfed and exclusively formula-fed infants in the first 4.5 months of life. One study reported that exclusively breastfed infants at 3 months of age and exclusively breastfed boys at 6 months of age had higher fat mass contents compared to exclusively formula-fed infants.

Conclusion:

Because of the limited number of studies available, larger studies are needed to clarify the differences in body composition between exclusively/predominantly breastfed and exclusively formula-fed infants.
King’s Conceptual System and Theory of Goal Attainment: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Frey Maureen A. , Sieloff Christina L. , Norris Diane M.
Published: December 2013

Imogene King is universally recognized as a pioneer of nursing theory development. Her interacting conceptual system for nursing and her theory of goal attainment have been included in every major nursing theory text, are taught to thousands of nursing students, form the basis of nursing education programs, and are implemented in a variety of service settings.
Finite element analysis of ultrasonic-assisted equal channel angular pressing
Authors: Ahmadi F , Farzin M
Published: December 2013

Equal channel angular pressing is one of the most prominent procedures for achieving ultra-fine grain structures among the various severe plastic deformation techniques. In this study, the effect of superimposing ultrasonic vibration on the punch during the equal channel angular pressing process was investigated by finite element model. Two different 2D plane strain models were considered in the simulations. In the first model, the die and the punch were considered as rigid bodies and in the second model, the punch was considered as an elastic body. Both models showed reduction in the forming force. These models also showed that this force reduction depends on the vibration amplitude and the die velocity. However, the amount of reduction was lower in the second model because the amplitude of 10 µm at the working surface of the punch reduced to 1.25 µm in forming situation while in the first model remained constant i.e. 10 µm. It was shown that this amplitude reduction during forming is more realistic in comparison with constant vibration amplitude. The reduction of amplitude depends on the work material and punch material and in this study they are AL1100 and Ti-6Al-4 V, respectively. By using a 3D finite element model and an elastic punch also showed that the second model is more realistic if compared with experimental data.
A simple model for compound split transmissions
Authors: De Pinto Stefano , Mantriota Giacomo
Published: December 2013

Hybrid vehicles are the most promising technologies that can lead to significant improvements in the efficiency and the performance of a vehicle through several drivetrain architectures. The automotive research is direct towards architectures with multiple modes. In this context, design and optimal control models of these transmissions are of great importance. In order to obtain a simple model, we propose a novel and original approach for evaluating the performance of a compound electric continuously variable transmission. A ‘four-port mechanical power-split device’ is examined and, using this, a novel method is described by considering an ‘equivalent electric continuously variable transmission’ within a power split. Finally, kinematic conditions are obtained to evaluate which power flow occurs and to determine simple models for the efficiency of the transmission.