bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lonidamine induces intracellular tumor acidification and ATP depletion in breast, prostate and ovarian cancer xenografts and potentiates response to doxorubicin
Authors: Nath Kavindra , Nelson David S. , Heitjan Daniel F. , Leeper Dennis B. , Zhou Rong , Glickson Jerry D.
Published: December 2014

We demonstrate that the effects of lonidamine (LND, 100 mg/kg, i.p.) are similar for a number of xenograft models of human cancer including DB‐1 melanoma and HCC1806 breast, BT‐474 breast, LNCaP prostate and A2870 ovarian carcinomas. Following treatment with LND, each of these tumors exhibits a rapid decrease in intracellular pH, a small decrease in extracellular pH, a concomitant monotonic decrease in nucleoside triphosphate and an increase in inorganic phosphate over a 2–3 h period. We have previously demonstrated that selective intracellular tumor acidification potentiates response of this melanoma model to melphalan (7.5 mg/kg, i.v.), producing an estimated 89% cell kill based on tumor growth delay analysis. We now show that, in both DB‐1 melanoma and HCC1806 breast carcinoma, LND potentiates response to doxorubicin, producing 95% cell kill in DB‐1 melanoma at 7.5 mg/kg, i.v. doxorubicin and 98% cell kill at 10.0 mg/kg doxorubicin, and producing a 95% cell kill in HCC1806 breast carcinoma at 12.0 mg/kg doxorubicin. Potentiation of doxorubicin may result from cation trapping of the weakly basic anthracycline. Recent experience with the clinical treatment of melanoma and other forms of human cancer suggests that these diseases will probably not be cured by a single therapeutic procedure other than surgery. A multimodality therapeutic approach will be required. As a potent modulator of tumor response to N‐mustards and anthracyclines as well as tumor thermo‐ and radiosensitivity, LND promises to play an important clinical role in the management and possible complete local control of a number of prevalent forms of human cancer. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A compact linear programming formulation of the maximum concurrent flow problem
Authors: Dong Yuanyuan , Olinick Eli V. , Jason Kratz T. , Matula David W.
Published: December 2014

We present an alternative linear programming formulation of the maximum concurrent flow problem (MCFP) termed the triples formulation. The standard formulations in the literature are the edge‐path and node‐edge formulations, which are known to be equivalent due to the Flow Decomposition Theorem. We present algorithms for deriving a triples solution from an edge‐path solution and vice versa, and hence show that all three formulations are equivalent. Our new formulation leads to more compact linear programs than either the edge‐path or node‐path formulations. We show that the triples formulation often has half the number of rows and half the number of columns compared to the node‐edge formulation. We report computational results comparing the solution times using the three formulations and the state‐of‐the‐art linear programming solver CPLEX on a set of popular problem instances from the literature and a set of instances defined on random geometric graphs. The results indicate that the triples formulation can be solved more efficiently than the other two. We found that the CPLEX linear programming solvers solved 89% of the MCFP instances in our computational study faster with the triples formulation than it did with the other two formulations, typically two to four times faster than the node‐edge formulation when available computer memory allowed both to be solved. The triples formulation appears to be particularly well suited for problem instances defined on dense graphs; on average, CPLEX solved these types of problems in our study 10 times faster with the triples formulation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 65(1), 68–87. 2015
NURBS based least‐squares finite element methods for fluid and solid mechanics
Authors: Kadapa C. , Dettmer W.G. , Perić D.
Published: December 2014

This contribution investigates the performance of a least‐squares finite element method based on non‐uniform rational B‐splines (NURBS) basis functions. The least‐squares functional is formulated directly in terms of the strong form of the governing equations and boundary conditions. Thus, the introduction of auxiliary variables is avoided, but the order of the basis functions must be higher or equal to the order of the highest spatial derivatives. The methodology is applied to the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations and to linear as well as nonlinear elastic solid mechanics. The numerical examples presented feature convective effects and incompressible or nearly incompressible material. The numerical results, which are obtained with equal‐order interpolation and without any stabilisation techniques, are smooth and accurate. It is shown that for p and h refinement, the theoretical rates of convergence are achieved. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Balance consistent practice with institutional autonomy
Authors: Smith Lauren B. , Rusk Diane Treis
Published: December 2014

Over the last several years, many University of Wisconsin System institutions have focused on nontraditional students as an important population of opportunity to advance college‐completion goals. However, UW System data revealed second‐year retention rates for adult students lagged behind rates for all UW degree seekers. For example, the first‐to‐second‐year retention rate for nontraditional‐aged new freshmen who entered UW System institutions between 2005 and 2009 was 23 percent lower than for new freshmen overall.
Understand different models of recruitment via 3rd‐party companies
Authors: Ivery E. Faith
Published: December 2014

“Adult students” are no longer the “nontraditional students,” since older learners are very much a part of higher education today. Adult learning is clearly here to stay. Unfortunately, recruiting older students is costlier than ever. The industry‐accepted average for recruiting a single adult learner is between $2,800 and $3,500. And that's going up.
How would you respond to adjunct with diploma‐mill degree?
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: December 2014

A highly respected adjunct instructor who has taught in your continuing education program for many years has updated his profile on the institution's website to show that he has recently earned an advanced degree. You recognize that the institution named is a diploma mill but are unsure how to address the situation. What would you do?
Students Speak/Resources
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: December 2014

Students Speak

Lack of opportunities leads dancer to college

Resources

Help your adjuncts improve their teaching

Simplify college experience of your adult students

Consider framework for transfers across state lines
Plan conference attendance for 2015
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: December 2014

Between keeping your unit running smoothly and assisting adult learners with the myriad challenges that can arise, you probably have your hands full. It can be easy to let professional development fall by the wayside as more pressing priorities consume your time and energy.
Student‐centered approach helps program survive in changing landscape
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: December 2014

Louis deSalle was working on his doctoral degree when he stumbled onto an opportunity to co‐teach a course for retirees offered by The College of New Rochelle. “I was 28 years old teaching people in their sixties, so I was sort of like their child,” he joked. He immediately fell in love with adult learners.
High‐resolution quantitative proteome analysis reveals substantial differences between phagosomes of RAW 264.7 and bone marrow derived macrophages
Authors: Guo Manman , Härtlova Anetta , Dill Brian D. , Prescott Alan R. , Gierliński Marek , Trost Matthias
Published: December 2014

Macrophages are important immune cells operating at the forefront of innate immunity by taking up foreign particles and microbes through phagocytosis. The RAW 264.7 cell line is commonly used for experiments in the macrophage and phagocytosis field. However, little is known how its functions compare to primary macrophages. Here, we have performed an in‐depth proteomics characterization of phagosomes from RAW 264.7 and bone marrow derived macrophages by quantifying more than 2500 phagosomal proteins. Our data indicate that there are significant differences for a large number of proteins including important receptors such as mannose receptor 1 and Siglec‐1. Moreover, bone marrow derived macrophages phagosomes mature considerably faster by fusion with endosomes and the lysosome which we validated using fluorogenic phagocytic assays. We provide a valuable resource for researcher in the field and recommend careful use of the RAW 264.7 cell line when studying phagosome functions. All MS data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD001293 (http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD001293).
Structural and morphological studies on the deformation behavior of polypropylene/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposites prepared through ultrasound‐assisted melt extrusion process
Authors: Mata‐Padilla José M. , Ávila‐Orta Carlos A. , Medellín‐Rodríguez Francisco J. , Hernández‐Hernández Ernesto , Jiménez‐Barrera Rosa M. , Crúz‐Delgado Víctor J. , Valdéz‐Garza Janett , Solís‐Rosales Silvia G. , Torres‐Martínez Adriana , Lozano‐Estrada Myriam , Díaz‐Barriga Castro Enrique
Published: December 2014

Structural and morphological behavior under stress–strain of polypropylene/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (PP/MWCNTs) nanocomposites prepared through ultrasound‐assisted melt extrusion process was studied by means of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), and wide angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS). A high ductile behavior was observed in the PP/MWCNT nanocomposites with low concentration of MWCNTs. This was related to an energy‐dissipating mechanism, achieved by the formation of an ordered PP‐CNTs interphase zone and crystal oriented structure in the undeformed samples. Different strain‐induced‐phase transformations were observed by ex situ SAXS/WAXS, characterizing the different stages of structure development during the deformation of PP and PP/MWCNTs nanocomposites. The high concentration of CNTs reduced the strain behavior of PP due to the agglomeration of nanoparticles. A structural pathway relating the deformation‐induced phase transitions and the dissipation energy mechanism in the PP/MWCNTs nanocomposites at low concentration of nanoparticles was proposed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 475–491
Larvicidal activity of the essential oil from Tetradium glabrifolium fruits and its constituents against Aedes albopictus
Authors: Liu Xin Chao , Liu Qiyong , Chen Xu Bo , Zhou Ligang , Liu Zhi Long
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

In our screening programme for new agrochemicals from wild plants, the essential oil of Tetradium glabrifolium (Champ. ex Benth.) T.G. Hartley fruits was found to possess strong larvicidal activity against the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus L. The essential oil was extracted via hydrodistillation, and the constituents were determined by GC‐MS analysis. The active compounds were isolated and identified by bioassay‐directed fractionation.

RESULTS

GC‐MS analyses revealed the presence of 19 components with 2‐tridecanone (43.38%), 2‐undecanone (24.09%), D‐limonene (13.01%), caryophyllene (5.04%) and β‐elemene (4.07%) being the major constituents. Bioactivity‐directed chromatographic separation of the oil led to the isolation of 2‐tridecanone, 2‐undecanone and D‐limonene as active compounds. The essential oil of T. glabrifolium exhibited larvicidal activity against the early fourth‐instar larvae of A. albopictus, with an LC50 value of 8.20 µg mL−1. The isolated constituent compounds, 2‐tridecanone, 2‐undecanone and D‐limonene, possessed strong larvicidal activity against the early fourth‐instar larvae of A. albopictus, with LC50 values of 2.86, 9.95 and 41.75 µg mL−1 respectively.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicated that the essential oil of T. glabrifolium fruits and the three constituents have an excellent potential for use in control of A. albopictus larvae and could be useful in the search for newer, safer and more effective natural compounds as larvicides. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Orbital entanglement in quantum chemistry
Authors: Boguslawski Katharina , Tecmer Paweł
Published: December 2014

The basic concepts of orbital entanglement and its application to chemistry are briefly reviewed. The calculation of orbital entanglement measures from correlated wavefunctions is discussed in terms of reduced n‐particle density matrices. Possible simplifications in their evaluation are highlighted in case of seniority‐zero wavefunctions. Specifically, orbital entanglement allows us to dissect electron correlation effects in its strong and weak contributions, to determine bond orders, to assess the quality and stability of active space calculations, to monitor chemical reactions, and to identify points along the reaction coordinate where electronic wavefunctions change drastically. Thus, orbital entanglement represents a useful and intuitive tool to interpret complex electronic wavefunctions and to facilitate a qualitative understanding of electronic structure and how it changes in chemical processes. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Long and Short of Genetic Counseling Summary Letters: A Case–control Study
Authors: Roggenbuck J. , Temme R. , Pond D. , Baker J. , Jarvis K. , Liu M. , Dugan S. , Mendelsohn N. J.
Published: December 2014

Genetic counseling summary letters are intended to reinforce information received during genetic counseling, but little information is available on patient/family responses to these letters. We conducted a case–control study to assess the effectiveness of two different letter formats. Parents of children receiving a new diagnosis were enrolled. The control group (n = 85) received a genetic counseling summary letter in a narrative format, 4–5 pages in length. After the control enrollment period, genetic counselors were trained by a professional medical writer to develop a concise letter format. The case group (n = 64) received a concise letter, approximately 1.5 pages in length, utilizing simple sentences, lay terms, and lists/bullet points. Parents completed a survey 4 weeks after the visit to rate the letter's format, usefulness, and their emotional reaction. Results show that parents in the case group rated the letter more highly (p = 0.023), particularly in the emotional response dimension (rating changes in anxiety, depression, fear, ability to cope, and confidence in response to the letter). Parents in the case group also rated the genetic counseling session more highly (p = 0.039). In the control group, parents without a college degree were more likely to rate the letter as too long and the level of medical detail as too high. In the case group, no significant differences were seen between parents with or without a college degree. These data suggest that a short genetic counseling summary letter is rated higher by parents, and is particularly associated with a more positive emotional reaction. A short letter format highlighting the basic facts related to the genetic condition may be more useful to parents of diverse educational backgrounds, and may support a positive emotional adaptation at the time of a new diagnosis. Genetic counselors may benefit from specific instruction in medical and educational writing.
KLK1 and ZG16B proteins and arginine–proline metabolism identified as novel targets to monitor atherosclerosis, acute coronary syndrome and recovery
Authors: Martin-Lorenzo Marta , Zubiri Irene , Maroto Aroa S. , Gonzalez-Calero Laura , Posada-Ayala Maria , de la Cuesta Fernando , Mourino-Alvarez Laura , Lopez-Almodovar Luis F. , Calvo-Bonacho Eva , Ruilope Luis M. , Padial Luis R. , Barderas Maria G. , Vivanco Fernando , Alvarez-Llamas Gloria
Published: December 2014

We pursued here the identification of specific signatures of proteins and metabolites in urine which respond to atherosclerosis development, acute event and/or recovery. An animal model (rabbit) of atherosclerosis was developed and molecules responding to atherosclerosis silent development were identified. Those molecules were investigated in human urine from patients suffering an acute coronary syndrome (ACS), at onset and discharge. Kallikrein1 (KLK1) and zymogen granule protein16B (ZG16B) proteins, and l-alanine, l-arabitol, scyllo-inositol, 2-hydroxyphenilacetic acid, 3-hydroxybutyric acid and N-acetylneuraminic acid metabolites were found altered in response to atherosclerosis progression and the acute event, composing a molecular panel related to cardiovascular risk. KLK1 and ZG16B together with 3-hydroxybutyric acid, putrescine and 1-methylhydantoin responded at onset but also showed normalized levels at discharge, constituting a molecular panel to monitor recovery. The observed decreased of KLK1 is in alignment with the protective mechanism of the kallikrein–kinin system. The connection between KLK1 and ZG16B shown by pathway analysis explains reduced levels of toll-like receptor 2 described in atherosclerosis. Metabolomic analysis revealed arginine and proline metabolism, glutathione metabolism and degradation of ketone bodies as the three main pathways altered. In conclusion, two novel urinary panels of proteins and metabolites are here for the first time shown related to atherosclerosis, ACS and patient’s recovery.
Detergency of Vegetable Oils and Semi‐Solid Fats Using Microemulsion Mixtures of Anionic Extended Surfactants: The HLD Concept and Cold Water Applications
Authors: Do Linh D. , Attaphong Chodchanok , Scamehorn John F. , Sabatini David A.
Published: December 2014

In spite of the increasing interest in cold temperature detergency of vegetable oils and fats, very limited research has been published on this topic. Extended surfactants have recently been shown to produce very promising detergency with vegetable oils at ambient temperature. However, the excessive salinity requirement (4–14 %) for these surfactants has limited their use in practical applications. In this work, we investigated the mixture of a linear C10–18PO–2EO–NaSO4 extended surfactant and a hydrophobic twin‐tailed sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate surfactant for cold temperature detergency of vegetable oils and semi‐solid fats. Four vegetable oils of varying melting points (from −10 to 28 °C) were studied, these were canola, jojoba, coconut and palm kernel oils. Anionic surfactant mixtures showed synergism in detergency performance compared to single surfactant systems. At temperatures above the melting point, greater than 90 % detergency was achieved at 0.5 % NaCl. While detergency performance decreased at temperatures below the melting point, it was still superior to that of a commercial detergent (up to 80 vs. 40 %). Further, results show that the experimental microemulsion phase behaviors correlated very well with predictions from the hydrophilic–lipophilic deviation concept.
Oxidized Low‐Density Lipoprotein Inhibits THP‐1‐Derived Macrophage Autophagy via TET2 Down‐regulation
Authors: Li Guohua , Peng Juan , Liu Yanhui , Li Xiaohong , Yang Qin , Li Yongqing , Tang Zhihan , Wang Zuo , Jiang Zhisheng , Wei Dangheng
Published: December 2014

Oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) is an independent risk factor of atherosclerosis. However, the mechanism underlying its pro‐atherosclerosis roles has not yet been well explored. DNA demethylation modification, via DNA methyltransferases or ten‐eleven‐translocation (TET) family, is a crisis epigenetic regulation for various biological and pathological processes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ox‐LDL on macrophage autophagy and its potential epigenetic mechanism. Results showed that after treatment with 0, 10, 20, 40 or 80 mg/L ox‐LDL for 24 h, the autophagy markers Beclin 1 and LC3 expression were obviously decreased at protein levels (P < 0.05). The mRNA and protein expression of TET2 was evidently decreased (P < 0.05). After pre‐treatment with TET2 siRNA, the mRNA and protein levels of Beclin 1 and LC3 decreased compared with the 80 mg/L treatment group (P < 0.01). The mRNA and protein levels of Beclin 1 and LC3‐II were up‐regulated (P < 0.05) in the 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine (a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor) of pretreatment group. Consistent with the Western blot results, cell immunofluorescence showed that the protein concentration of LC3‐II decreased in the TET2 siRNA group and increased in the 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine group. Taken together, these results showed that DNA demethylation modifications regulate ox‐LDL‐treated THP‐1 macrophages autophagy and TET2 might be a novel regulator.
Preparation of 1,3‐Diolein by Irreversible Acylation
Authors: Wang Xiaosan , Han Zhengyang , Zou Wanzhen , Yang Wan , Jin Qingzhe , Wang Xingguo
Published: December 2014

Earlier findings on the nutritional benefits of diacylglycerols (DAGs) have attracted much attention on the synthesis of DAGs. In this study, we reported an improved method for the lipase‐catalyzed synthesis of 1,3‐diolein by the irreversible glycerolysis of vinyl oleate with glycerol. The effects of reaction system, lipase loading, molar ratio of vinyl oleate to glycerol, reaction temperature and time on 1,3‐diolein content in crude reaction mixture were investigated. When the reaction was conducted in a solvent‐free system at 30 °C for 8 h by reacting 2 mmol vinyl oleate with 1 mmol glycerol with 8 % (w/w, relative to total reactants) Lipozyme RM IM (Novozymes, Beijing, China) as catalyst, there were 90.5 ± 2.9 % (area/area) 1,3‐diolein and (3.3 ± 0.3) % 1,2‐diolein produced. After purification, 1,3‐diolein was obtained at 81.4 % yield with 98.2 % purity. The lipase‐catalyzed synthesis of 1,3‐diolein using vinyl oleate as acyl donor by glycerolysis was also conducted using a medium with 50 mmol of glycerol and 100 mmol vinyl oleate. Compared to enzymatic esterification in a solvent, enzymatic glycerolysis for the synthesis 1,3‐diolein is more effective due to the irreversible reaction, mild due to the low reaction temperature, and environmentally benign due to the use of solvent‐free reaction system.
Misattributing speech and jumping to conclusions: A longitudinal study in people at high risk of psychosis
Authors: Winton-Brown T.T. , Broome M.R. , Allen P. , Valli I. , Howes O. , Garety P.A. , Johns L.C. , McGuire P.
Published: December 2014

Biases in cognition such as Jumping to Conclusions (JTC) and Verbal Self-Monitoring (VSM) are thought to underlie the formation of psychotic symptoms. This prospective study in people with an At Risk Mental State (ARMS) for psychosis examined how these cognitive biases changed over time, and predicted clinical and functional outcomes. Twenty-three participants were assessed at clinical presentation and a mean of 31 months later. Performance on a JTC and VSM tasks were measured at both time points. Relationships to symptom severity, level of function and the incidence of psychotic disorder were then examined. The levels of symptoms, function and VSM all improved over time, while JTC was stable. Five participants (22%) developed a psychotic disorder during the follow-up period, but the risk of transition was not related to performance on either task at baseline, or to longitudinal changes in task performance. JTC performance correlated with symptom severity at baseline and follow-up. Similarly, performance on the two tasks was not related to the level of functioning at follow-up. Thus, while the ARMS is associated with both VSM and JTC biases, neither predict the onset of psychosis or the overall functional outcome.
Role of histamine H3 receptor in glucagon‐secreting αTC1.6 cells
Authors: Nakamura Tadaho , Yoshikawa Takeo , Naganuma Fumito , Mohsen Attayeb , Iida Tomomitsu , Miura Yamato , Sugawara Akira , Yanai Kazuhiko
Published: December 2014

Pancreatic α‐cells secrete glucagon to maintain energy homeostasis. Although histamine has an important role in energy homeostasis, the expression and function of histamine receptors in pancreatic α‐cells remains unknown. We found that the histamine H3 receptor (H3R) was expressed in mouse pancreatic α‐cells and αTC1.6 cells, a mouse pancreatic α‐cell line. H3R inhibited glucagon secretion from αTC1.6 cells by inhibiting an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration. We also found that immepip, a selective H3R agonist, decreased serum glucagon concentration in rats. These results suggest that H3R modulates glucagon secretion from pancreatic α‐cells.
Necessary Metacarpophalangeal Joints Range of Motion to Maintain Hand Function
Authors: Hayashi Hiroyuki , Shimizu Hideki , Okumura Shoji , Miwa Kazuhiro
Published: December 2014

Objective/Background

This study was conducted to ascertain the necessary flexion or extension range of motion (ROM) required for the finger metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints to maintain hand function.

Methods

Twenty-one healthy adults were recruited for participation in this study. Each participant's right-hand function was evaluated using the Jebsen–-Taylor hand function test and the O'Connor finger dexterity test. Experiment 1 was conducted to assess the influence of the orthosis on hand function. The function of each participant's right hand was measured without an orthosis, with all the finger MCP joints limited to 90° of flexion and 45° of hyperextension. Experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the impact of limited flexion and extension of all the MCP joints on hand function. The movements of all the finger MCP joints were limited to 70°, 60°, 50°, and 40° of flexion and 20°, 30°, 40°, and 50° of extension lag using orthoses.

Results

No significant difference was found between a normal hand and a hand with either flexion of 90° or hyperextension of 45° in Experiment 1. In Experiment 2, no significant difference was found between a normal hand and a hand for which the flexion angle was 70°, with an extension lag of 30° or 20°.

Conclusion

The necessary ROMs of the MCP joints to maintain hand function are flexion ROM >70° with an extension ROM <30° of extension lag.
Carotid plaque as a predictor of dementia in older adults: The Three‐City Study
Authors: Carcaillon Laure , Plichart Matthieu , Zureik Mahmoud , Rouaud Olivier , Majed Bilal , Ritchie Karen , Tzourio Christophe , Dartigues Jean‐François , Empana Jean‐Philippe
Published: December 2014

Background

The contribution of carotid atherosclerosis to incident dementia remains unclear. We examined the association between carotid plaques (CP) and common carotid intima media thickness (CCA‐IMT) with incident dementia and its subtypes, and their added value for dementia risk prediction.

Methods

At baseline, 6025 dementia‐free subjects aged 65–86 years underwent bilateral carotid ultrasonography measures of CP and plaque‐free CCA‐IMT. Subjects were followed‐up over 7 years for the detection of dementia.

Results

After a mean 5.4 years of follow‐up, 421 subjects developed dementia including 272 Alzheimer's disease and 83 vascular/mixed dementia (VaD). Only CP were independently related to VaD (HR≥2 sites with plaques = 1.92; 95% confidence interval or CI = 1.13–3.22) and improved VaD risk prediction (continuous Net Reclassification Index = 30.1%; 95%CI = 8.4–51.7) beyond known dementia risk factors. Accounting for stroke or competing risk by death marginally modified the results.

Conclusion

In older adults, CP are independent predictors of incident VaD and may improve VaD risk prediction.
Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease: Common pathways, common goals
Authors: Hartley Dean , Blumenthal Thomas , Carrillo Maria , DiPaolo Gilbert , Esralew Lucille , Gardiner Katheleen , Granholm Ann-Charlotte , Iqbal Khalid , Krams Michael , Lemere Cynthia , Lott Ira , Mobley William , Ness Seth , Nixon Ralph , Potter Huntington , Reeves Roger , Sabbagh Marwan , Silverman Wayne , Tycko Benjamin , Whitten Michelle , Wisniewski Thomas
Published: December 2014

In the United States, estimates indicate there are between 250,000 and 400,000 individuals with Down syndrome (DS), and nearly all will develop Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology starting in their 30s. With the current lifespan being 55 to 60 years, approximately 70% will develop dementia, and if their life expectancy continues to increase, the number of individuals developing AD will concomitantly increase. Pathogenic and mechanistic links between DS and Alzheimer's prompted the Alzheimer's Association to partner with the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation at a workshop of AD and DS experts to discuss similarities and differences, challenges, and future directions for this field. The workshop articulated a set of research priorities: (1) target identification and drug development, (2) clinical and pathological staging, (3) cognitive assessment and clinical trials, and (4) partnerships and collaborations with the ultimate goal to deliver effective disease‐modifying treatments.
Effects of three‐times‐per‐week versus on‐demand tadalafil treatment on erectile function and continence recovery following bilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy: Results of a prospective, randomized, and single‐center study
Authors: Canat Lütfi , Güner Bayram , Gürbüz Cenk , Atış Gökhan , Çaşkurlu Turhan
Published: December 2014

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and urinary incontinence after bilateral nerve‐sparing radical prostatectomy (BNSRP) still remain major causes of morbidity. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5‐Is) have a role in the treatment of ED after BNSRP. Several studies in patients with ED and lower urinary tract symptoms demonstrated that PDE5‐Is could improve both erectile function and urinary symptoms. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacies of two dosing regimens of 20 mg tadalafil (on‐demand and 3 times per week) and to assess the role of tadalafil in recovery of erectile function and continence after BNSRP. We conducted a single‐center, prospective, randomized controlled trial of three times per week versus on‐demand tadalafil 20 mg and a control group after BNSRP. A total of 129 preoperatively potent and continent patients were included in the study. The patients were evaluated at 6 weeks and 12 months postoperatively for erectile function and continence status. There was no significant difference between all three groups with respect to erectile function at 6 weeks after the surgery. Twelve months after the surgery, the International Index of Erectile Function score was significantly higher in the group using tadalafil 20 mg three times per week. However, there was no significant difference between the treated groups and the control group with respect to the continence status at 12 months after the surgery. There was no correlation between incontinence and ED after the surgery in all groups. Tadalafil 20 mg three times per week is an efficacious and well‐tolerated treatment option for ED after BNSRP. Treatment with 20 mg tadalafil either three times per week or on demand cannot improve continence recovery after BNSRP compared with the control group.
Antioxidant Potential is Correlated to ω6 / ω3 Ratio and Brasfield Score in Cystic Fibrosis Children
Authors: Fabre Alexandre , Caspar-Bauguil Sylvie , Gaudart Jean , Mancini Julien , Garcia Jésus , Mittaine Marie , Rittié Jean-Luc , Brémont François , Mas Emmanuel
Published: December 2014

Objectives: Oxidative stress is associated with the condition of cystic fibrosis (CF), but no guidelines exist for its assessment or treatment. Our aim was to evaluate a test that measures the blood antioxidant capability in CF children. Methods: This antioxidant capability was assessed by the Kit Radicaux Libres (KRL) test in 44 CF children (24 boys). We recorded also anthropometric measures, pulmonary function, CF severity scores, and plasma nutritional and inflammatory parameters (proteins, vitamins, erythrocyte fatty acids, and micronutrients). We performed univariate and multivariate analyses with linear regression models. Results: The mean age at the first KRL assessment was 12.2 ± 3.8 years. Factors that correlated with decreased antioxidant capacity were mostly related to the severity of pulmonary disease [ forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1), acute exacerbation, and congestion. In multivariate analysis, the correlation between Brasfield score and erythrocyte antioxidant potential remained significant (β = - 0.611, p < 0.001). Among nutritional factors, the ω6/ω3 ratio was significantly correlated to erythrocyte antioxidant potential (β = - 1.213, p = 0.01). Conclusion: The blood antioxidant capability, measured by the KRL test, appears to be an interesting biomarker to evaluate oxidative stress in CF. This study suggests that the ω6/ω3 ratio should be regarded as a nutritional marker in antioxidant management in CF children.
Zinc Status as Compared to Zinc Intake and Iron Status: a Case Study of Iranian Populations from Isfahan Province
Authors: Abbaspour Nazanin , Wegmueller Rita , Kelishadi Roya , Schulin Rainer , Hurrell Richard F.
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to estimate the zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) status of different age groups in rural (Rooran) and suburban (Khomeini Shahr) populations in central Iran, to relate the Zn status to Zn intake from animal and plant foods, and to examine the relationship between Zn and Fe status. Blood samples from 341 subjects including preschool children (27), schoolchildren (157), women (91), and men (66) were analyzed for serum zinc (SZn), serum ferritin (SF), total C-reactive protein, and hemoglobin. Daily Zn and phytic acid (PA) intakes from major food groups were estimated using a 3-day weighed food record. The overall prevalence of Zn deficiency based on low SZn was 5.9 % in Rooran and 7.2 % in Khomeini Shahr. Anemia was higher in the village than in the suburb (33.5 % vs. 22.7 %; p = 0.04) and almost half of the anemia in Khomeini Shahr and 36 % in Rooran was associated with iron deficiency (ID) based on low SF. The PA:Zn molar ratio in the diet was 10 - 13, indicating a diet of moderate Zn bioavailability. About 18 % of the population consumed less Zn than their WHO Estimated Average Requirements. There was no association between Zn status and Fe status. The modest prevalence of Zn deficiency in the study populations can be explained by a relatively high Zn intake from animal source foods. Anemia however is a serious public health problem affecting some 30 % of the subjects, with almost half due to ID. The lower Fe status than Zn status could be due to the frequent consumption of tea and dairy products.
Serum Levels of Some Micronutrients and Congenital Malformations: A Prospective Cohort Study in Healthy Saudi-Arabian First-Trimester Pregnant Women
Authors: Hammouda Sahar A. Ibrahim , Abd Al-Halim Om Alsaad Farouk , Mohamadin Ahmed M.
Published: December 2014

Background/Objectives: Various studies have linked vitamin deficiencies in early pregnancy with birth defects. The objective of this study was to identify the relationship between micronutrient deficiency and congenital malformations (CM). Subjects and Methods: There were 1,180 healthy, first-trimester pregnant Saudi-Arabian females selected from the antenatal care clinics of two hospitals and 21 health care centers located all over the city. Their full medical history, clinical examination, anthropometry, and various laboratory analyses were completed. Results: Forty-eight infants were born with CM. The serum concentrations of the analyzed nutrients (selenium, zinc, magnesium, and vitamins A, E, B12, and folic acid) were significantly lower in mothers of infants with CM compared to the mothers of infants without CM. In comparison, the serum totals of homocysteine (tHcy) levels were significantly higher among the CM group. Conclusion: This study highlights the association of CM with the deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals among pregnant women.
Cardiotoxicity Induced by Dietary Oxidized Sunflower Oil in Rats: Pro- and Antioxidant Effects of α-Tocopherol
Authors: Rouaki Fayrouz , Mazari Azzedine , Kanane Amel , Errahmani Mohamed Brahim , Ammouche Ali
Published: December 2014

This study highlighted the pro-oxidative functions of α-tocopherol (αT) on the heart antioxidant system and tissue histopathology of oxidized sunflower oil (OSO)-exposed rats.Four groups of male Wistar rats were fed with different diets: 1) control diet containing FSO (fresh sunflower oil); 2) diet containing 5 % OSO; 3) diet containing 5 % OSO, supplemented with 600 mg αT kg-1; and 4) diet containing 5 % OSO, supplemented with 1200 mg αT kg-1. The hearts were then isolated, and the antioxidant enzymatic activities were assessed. Body weight and catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities significantly decreased in groups fed with OSO, while the lipid peroxidation (LPO) level significantly increased. Administration of OSO with αT (600 mg · kg-1) returned the body weight values and LPO levels to similar values as the control group. The CAT and GPx activities increased but remained significantly lower compared to the control group. In the OSO group with αT (1200 mg · kg-1), the CAT and GPx activities also decreased, while LPO significantly increased. Heart tissue sections obtained from the groups revealed the presence of large areas of necrosis. This study suggested that OSO induced oxidative stress and that administration of a moderate dose of αT restored the antioxidant balance, but that high levels of αT supplementation result in a pro-oxidant effect.
Gender Differences in the Relationship between Vitamin C and Abdominal Obesity
Authors: Choi Min-Kyu , Song Hong Ji , Paek Yu-Jin , Lee Hae-Jeung
Published: December 2014

Background: Vitamin C is a commonly used antioxidant supplement; however, its effects on obesity and fat distribution are equivocal. We examined nationally representative data to determine whether intake of vitamin C is related to abdominal obesity. Methods: In total, 16,414 adults (58 % women) from the 2007 - 2010 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were included in the analysis. Vitamin C intake was calculated using 24-hour recalls and categorized into quintiles. The multivariate models in logistic regression analysis were adjusted for age, energy intake, sodium intake, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, education, income, pre-existing disease conditions, survey year, and menopausal status (in women only). Results: Compared with the lowest quintile (Q1) of vitamin C intake, the adjusted odds ratios of Q2, Q3, Q4, and Q5 for abdominal adiposity were 0.92, 0.86, 0.81, and 0.70, respectively, in women (p for trend = 0.0007). This association was maintained after adjusting for the confounding factors; however, we observed no association between intake of vitamin C and abdominal obesity in men. Conclusions: Vitamin C intake showed a negative association with abdominal obesity in women. Further research is warranted on the association between and the mechanism of vitamin C in abdominal obesity.
Detection of Differential Item Functioning in the Cornell Critical	Thinking Test Between Turkish and United States Students
Authors: Sahin Hafize , French Brian F. , Hand Brian , Gunel Murat
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Critical thinking is a broad term that includes core elements such as reasoning, evaluating, and metacognition that should be transferred to students in educational systems. The integration of such skills into models of student success is increasing on an international scale. The Cornell Critical Thinking Test is an internationally used tool to assess critical thinking skills. However, limited validity evidence of the translated versions of the instrument exists to support the inferences based on the CCTT scores. This study examined the CCTT Turkish version. Specifically, translated items were examined for measurement equivalence by determining if items function differently across students from United States and Turkey. Differential Item Functioning (DIF) analysis via logistic regression was employed. Results demonstrated that each subtest contained DIF items and 10% of the items in the instrument were identified as DIF. Mean differences between students in each country were not influenced by these items. A critical content review of the translated item gave insight as to why items may be functioning differently.
Factor Structure of the Ruminative Responses Scale
Authors: Griffith James W. , Raes Filip
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The 10-item Ruminative Responses Scale is used to measure two facets of rumination: brooding and reflection. These subscales are used to seek differential correlations with other variables of interest (e.g., depression). The validity of these facets, however, is questionable because brooding and reflection were distinguished based on factor analyses, but subsequent analyses have been inconsistent. We investigated these facets using factor analyses in a large community-based sample (N = 625). Other measures of rumination and depression were used as criteria for validity analyses. Only the brooding items formed a robust scale. A consistent reflection factor did not emerge. Brooding showed convergent validity with other measures of rumination as well as depression, all rs > .4. Brooding was also higher among participants with a history of depression compared with never-depressed participants. Implications for the interpretation of past research and for conducting future research are discussed.
How Test Takers See Test Examiners
Authors: Vormittag Isabella , Ortner Tuulia M. , Koch Tobias
Published: December 2014

Abstract. We addressed potential test takers’ preferences for women or men as examiners as well as how examiners were perceived depending on their gender. We employed an online design with 375 students who provided preferences for and ratings of examiners based on short video clips. The clips showed four out of 15 psychologists who differed in age (young vs. middle-aged) and gender giving an introduction to a fictional intelligence test session. Employing multivariate multilevel analyses we found female examiners to be perceived as more social competent and middle-aged examiners being perceived as more competent. Data analyses revealed a significant preference for choosing women as examiners. Results were discussed with reference to test performance and fairness.
The Dutch Symptom Checklist-90-Revised
Authors: Smits Iris A. M. , Timmerman Marieke E. , Barelds Dick P. H. , Meijer Rob R.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R; Derogatis, 1977 , 1994 ) was constructed to measure both general psychological distress and specific primary symptoms of distress. In this study, we evaluated to what extent the scale scores of the Dutch SCL-90-R reflect general and/or specific aspects of psychological distress in a psychiatric outpatients sample (N = 1,842), using a hierarchical factor model. The results revealed that the total scale score measures general psychological distress, with high reliability. The subscale scores Sleep Difficulties, Agoraphobia, Hostility, and Somatization reflect the specific primary symptoms reasonably well, with high reliability. The subscale score Depression hardly measures specific symptoms of distress, but instead a very common construct as is measured with the total scale of the SCL-90-R. The use of the Depression subscale score beyond the total scale score of the SCL-90-R appears therefore of limited value in clinical practice.
Brief Form of the Interpersonal Competence Questionnaire	(ICQ-15)
Authors: Coroiu Adina , Meyer Alexandra , Gomez-Garibello Carlos A. , Brähler Elmar , Hessel Aike , Körner Annett
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The Interpersonal Competence Questionnaire (ICQ) developed by Buhrmester and colleagues ( 1988 ) in the US assesses the multidimensional construct of social competence via five distinct, but related subscales. Two versions comprising 40 and 30 items, respectively, are available in German. The purpose of the current study is to develop and validate a brief version of the ICQ among a large adult sample that is representative of the German general population. Data were collected from 2,009 participants. Three confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were conducted in order to develop and validate the ICQ-15. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were computed for the ICQ-15. An initial CFA with the ICQ-30 formed the basis for the selection of the items to be included in the ICQ-15. Two subsequent CFA’s with the ICQ-15 revealed an excellent fit of the hypothesized five-factor model to the observed data. Internal consistency coefficients were in the adequate range. This preliminary evaluation shows that the ICQ-15 is a structurally valid measure of interpersonal competence recommended for research contexts with limited assessment time and for psychotherapy progress tracking in clinical settings.
Experience and Diagnostic Anchors in Referral Letters
Authors: Spaanjaars Nanon L. , Groenier Marleen , van de Ven Monique O. M. , Witteman Cilia L. M.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The present study investigated whether diagnostic anchors, that is: diagnoses suggested in referral letters, influence judgments made by clinical psychologists with different levels of experience. Moderately experienced clinicians (N = 98) and very experienced clinicians (n = 126) were randomly assigned to reading a referral letter suggesting either depression or anxiety, or no referral letter. They then read a psychiatric report about a depressed patient, and gave a preliminary and final diagnosis. Results showed that the correctness of the diagnoses by very experienced clinicians was unaffected by the referral diagnosis. Moderately experienced clinicians did use the suggested diagnosis as anchor; when they had read a referral letter suggesting depressive complaints they were more inclined to classify the patient with a depressive disorder. In conclusion, the diagnosis in a referral letter influences the diagnostic decision made by moderately experienced clinicians.
The Answer Is Blowing in the Wind
Authors: Rammstedt Beatrice , Mutz Michael , Farmer Richard F.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. This study examined the effects of weather on personality self-ratings. Single-assessment data were derived from the German General Social Survey conducted in 2008. For a subset of the participants (N = 478), official weather station data for the day a personality inventory was completed could be determined. Among these respondents, 140 (29%) completed the personality inventory on an unambiguously sunny day, 59 (12%) completed the measure on an unambiguously rainy day, and 279 (59%) completed the questionnaire on a day characterized by mixed weather conditions. Results revealed that self-ratings for some personality domains differed depending on the weather conditions on the day the inventory was completed. When compared with corresponding self-ratings collected under mixed weather conditions, ratings for the Big Five dimension of Openness to Experience were significantly lower on rainy days and ratings for Conscientiousness were significantly lower on sunny days. These results are suggestive of some limitations on the assumed situational independence of trait ratings.