bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discrete Modes of Life Cycle in Velarifictorus micado Species Complex (Orthoptera: Gryllidae)
Authors: He Zhuqing , Takeda Makio
Published: December 2013

Different modes of climatic adaptation often lead to a split in reproductive cohesion and stimulate speciation between populations with different patterns of life cycle. We here examined egg development and photoperiodic adaptations in the nymphal development of Velarifictorus micado. We defined fast hatching populations as nymphal diapause and slow hatching populations as egg diapause. The nymphs were reared under two photoperiods, LD 16 : 8 and LD 12 : 12 at 27.5°C, and the mean days of nymphal development were compared. The results indicate that the nymphal diapause populations showed slower nymphal development under LD 12 : 12 than under LD 16 : 8, and this retardation increased with the increase of original latitude. The egg diapause populations showed slower nymphal development under LD 16 : 8 than under LD 12 : 12. These features help synchronizing their overwintering stages. Gene flow from the opposite forms may disturb this synchronization mechanism, and therefore natural selection should favor displacement of the two forms. This could be an incipient climatic isolation mechanism of reproductive stage.
Collagen Signaling Enhances Tumor Progression after Anti-VEGF Therapy in a Murine Model of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Aguilera Kristina Y. , Rivera Lee B. , Hur Hoon , Carbon Juliet G. , Toombs Jason E. , Goldstein Courtney D. , Dellinger Michael T. , Castrillon Diego H. , Brekken Rolf A.
Published: December 2013

There is growing evidence that antiangiogenic therapy stimulates cancer cell invasion and metastasis. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for these changes have not been fully defined. Here, we report that anti-VEGF therapy promotes local invasion and metastasis by inducing collagen signaling in cancer cells. We show that chronic VEGF inhibition in a genetically engineered mouse model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) induces hypoxia, a less differentiated mesenchymal-like tumor cell phenotype, TGF-β expression, and collagen deposition and signaling. In addition, we show that collagen signaling is critical for protumorigenic activity of TGF-β in vitro. To further model the impact of collagen signaling in tumors, we evaluated PDA in mice lacking Sparc, a protein that reduces collagen binding to cell surface receptors. Importantly, we show that loss of Sparc increases collagen signaling and tumor progression. Together, these findings suggest that collagen actively promotes PDA spread and that enhanced disease progression associated with anti-VEGF therapy can arise from elevated extracellular matrix–mediated signaling. Cancer Res; 74(4); 1032–44. ©2013 AACR.
Gene Expression Profiling in True Interval Breast Cancer Reveals Overactivation of the mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Rojo Federico , Domingo Laia , Sala Maria , Zazo Sandra , Chamizo Cristina , Menendez Silvia , Arpi Oriol , Corominas Josep Maria , Bragado Rafael , Servitja Sonia , Tusquets Ignasi , Nonell Lara , Macià Francesc , Martínez Juan , Rovira Ana , Albanell Joan , Castells Xavier
Published: December 2013

Background: The development and progression of true interval breast cancers (tumors that truly appear after a negative screening mammogram) is known to be different from screen-detected cancers. However, the worse clinical behavior of true interval cancers is not fully understood from a biologic basis. We described the differential patterns of gene expression through microarray analysis in true interval and screen-detected cancers.

Methods: An unsupervised exploratory gene expression profile analysis was performed on 10 samples (true interval cancers = 5; screen-detected cancers = 5) using Affymetrix Human Gene 1.0ST arrays and interpreted by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Differential expression of selected genes was confirmed in a validation series of 91 tumors (n = 12; n = 79) by immunohistochemistry and in 24 tumors (n = 8; n = 16) by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), in true interval and screen-detected cancers, respectively.

Results: Exploratory gene expression analysis identified 1,060 differentially expressed genes (unadjusted P < 0.05) between study groups. On the basis of biologic implications, four genes were further validated: ceruloplasmin (CP) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase, 70 kDa, polypeptide 2 (RPS6KB2), both upregulated in true interval cancers; and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and transforming growth factor beta receptor III (TGFBR3), downregulated in true interval cancers. Their differential expression was confirmed by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry, consistent with mTOR pathway overexpression in true interval cancers.

Conclusions: True interval and screen-detected cancers show differential expression profile both at gene and protein levels. The mTOR signaling is significantly upregulated in true interval cancers, suggesting this pathway may mediate their aggressiveness.

Impact: Linking epidemiologic factors and mTOR activation may be the basis for future personalized screening strategies in women at risk of true interval cancers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(2); 288–99. ©2013 AACR.
Physical Activity and Gastric Cancer: So What? An Epidemiologist's Confession
Authors: Byers Tim
Published: December 2013

Epidemiologists, like many scientists, tend to become specialized and focused on a particular disease, even though behavioral risk factors such as physical activity have effects across many diseases. This commentary is a personal reflection by an epidemiologist on the shortcomings of this disease-oriented approach to prevention. Cancer Prev Res; 7(1); 9–11. ©2013 AACR.
Melanoma Associated with the Use of Melanotan-II
Authors: Hjuler Kasper Fjellhaugen , Lorentzen Henrik Frank
Published: December 2013

Background: Unlicensed use of melanotan-II (MT-II) to promote skin pigmentation has become prevalent amongst young people attending fitness centres. We present a case where the melanocyte stimulation of MT-II in combination with the use of sun tanning beds coincided with cutaneous melanoma. Observation: A 20-year-old woman with Fitzpatrick skin type II was referred to a dermatology clinic. Clinical examination revealed a suspicious black melanocytic lesion in her left gluteal region. Furthermore, her skin was universally intensely pigmented. The melanocytic lesion was excised, and histology confirmed the diagnosis of melanoma. Three months prior to the excision the patient had conducted a 3- to 4-week course of self-injections with MT-II, intending an augmentation of sunbed tanning. Conclusions and Relevance: This observation brings attention to the potential risks related to the use of the cyclic α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogue MT-II. There are several hazardous aspects of the possible widespread use of MT-II. As the drug is unlicensed and incompletely tested, the extent and types of adverse effects are unknown. Clinicians are advised to be aware of the problem, and counsel their at-risk patients regarding the potential hazards related to the use of MT-II.
Left Heart Structures in Human Neonates with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia and the Effect of Fetal Endoscopic Tracheal Occlusion
Authors: Alves da Rocha Luciane , Byrne Francesca A. , Keller Roberta L. , Miniati Doug , Brook Michael M. , Silverman Norman H. , Moon-Grady Anita J.
Published: December 2013

Background: Small left heart structures are observed in fetuses with left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Fetoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) in mid-gestation promotes lung growth in fetuses with CDH, however cardiac effects of FETO are poorly described. We studied the effects of FETO on cardiac structure size at birth, hypothesizing that left heart structures would be larger in neonates who had undergone fetal intervention. Methods/Results: We performed retrospective measurements of atrioventricular and semilunar valve and pulmonary artery diameters, ventricular lengths, left ventricular end-diastolic volume indexed (LVEDVi) to body surface area. 35 patients were studied (9 FETO, 26 controls). All fetuses had liver herniation and a lung-to-head ratio <1 at fetal presentation. At birth the intervention group had larger LVEDVi (16.8 vs. 12.76 ml/m2, p < 0.05), LV length Z-score (-2.05 vs. -4, p < 0.01), LV:RV length ratio (1.43 vs. 1.04, p < 0.05), LPA diameter Z-score (+1.71 vs. -1.04, p < 0.05), and better growth of aortic valve (-2.18 FETO, -3.3 controls, p < 0.01). There was a trend toward higher LV output in the FETO group. Conclusions: Left heart structures and LPA were larger postnatally in patients with CDH who underwent FETO than in those who did not. Hemodynamic alterations are introduced with tracheal occlusion that are associated with alterations in ventricular loading and may influence growth.
Occupational Radiation Exposure among the Staff of Departments of Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Radiology in Kuwait
Authors: Al-Abdulsalam A. , Brindhaban A.
Published: December 2013

Objectives: To investigate radiation exposure among the staff of departments of nuclear medicine (NM) and diagnostic radiology (DR) during 2008 and 2009 and to compare the mean doses received with the limit of 20 mSv/year of the International Commission of Radiological Protection (ICRP). Materials and Methods: The whole-body dose or effective dose, i.e. Hp(10), and the skin dose, i.e. Hp(0.07), of the staff of departments of NM and DR in Kuwait for the period of 2008 and 2009 were taken from the national thermoluminescent dosimetry database. A total of 1,780 radiation workers, grouped as NM physicians, radiologists, NM technologists, and DR technologists, from 7 departments of NM and 12 departments of DR were included. The annual average Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) were calculated for each group and comparisons were made between the groups and the years. A two-sided Mann-Whitney test was carried out, at the p = 0.05 level, to compare the means. The mean Hp(10) was compared with the limits of the ICRP. Results: Of the 16 distributions of Hp(10) and Hp(0.07), 10 were normal, with a mean annual Hp (10) in 2008 of 1.06, 1.03, 1.07, and 1.05 mSv for NM physicians, radiologists, NM technologists, and DR technologists, respectively. The corresponding Hp(0.07) values for 2008 were 1.03, 1.00, 1.05, and 1.03 mSv, respectively. Small but significant (p < 0.001) reductions in Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) were observed in 2009 for NM technologists and DR technologists. In all other cases, no significant (p > 0.072) differences were found. Conclusion: The annual average Hp(10) was well below the limit of the ICRP.
First-Trimester Screening for Trisomies 21, 18 and 13 by Ultrasound and Biochemical Testing
Authors: Wright D. , Syngelaki A. , Bradbury I. , Akolekar R. , Nicolaides K.H.
Published: December 2013

Objective: To examine the performance of screening for trisomies 21, 18 and 13 at 11-13 weeks' gestation using specific algorithms for these trisomies based on combinations of fetal nuchal translucency thickness (NT), fetal heart rate (FHR), ductus venosus pulsatility index for veins (DV PIV), and serum free β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A), placental growth factor (PLGF) and α-fetoprotein (AFP). Methods: Model-based estimates of screening performance were produced for the distribution of maternal ages in England and Wales in 2011, and prospectively collected data on fetal NT, FHR, DV PIV, β-hCG, PAPP-A, PLGF and AFP from singleton pregnancies undergoing aneuploidy screening. Results: In screening by NT, FHR, free β-hCG and PAPP-A, using specific algorithms for trisomy 21 and trisomies 18 and 13 at the risk cutoff of 1:100, the estimated detection rate (DR) was 87.0% for trisomy 21 and 91.8% for trisomies 18 and 13, at a false-positive rate (FPR) of 2.2%. Addition of PLGF, AFP and DV PIV increased the DR to 93.3% for trisomy 21 and 95.4% for trisomies 18 and 13 and reduced the FPR to 1.3%. Conclusions: Effective screening for trisomies can be achieved using specific algorithms based on NT, FHR, DV PIV, β-hCG, PAPP-A, PLGF and AFP.
Prognostic Value of Plasma Neutrophil Gelatinase–Associated Lipocalin for Mortality in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: van Deursen Vincent M. , Damman Kevin , Voors Adriaan A. , van der Wal Martje H. , Jaarsma Tiny , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Hillege Hans L.
Published: December 2013

Background—

In patients with heart failure, renal dysfunction is associated with a poor outcome. We aimed to assess the prognostic value of plasma neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin (NGAL), a novel marker of renal tubular damage, in patients with heart failure with or without renal dysfunction, and compare it with 2 frequently used biomarkers of chronic kidney disease.

Methods and Results—

Plasma NGAL, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and cystatin C were assessed in 562 patients with heart failure. Chronic kidney disease was defined as eGFR<60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
. Outcome was all-cause mortality at 36 months. Mean age was 71±11 years, 61% were men, and 97% were in New York Heart Association functional class II/III. Mean baseline eGFR was 54±20 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
, mean cystatin C was 11.2 (7.7–16.2) mg/L, and median plasma NGAL was 85 (60–123) ng/mL. Higher plasma NGAL levels were independently associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality, in patients with and without chronic kidney disease (hazard ratio [per SD increase in log NGAL]=1.45 [1.22–1.72];
P
<0.001 and hazard ratio=1.51 [1.06–2.16];
P
=0.023, respectively). Similarly, both in patients with high and low cystatin C (median cut-off), higher plasma NGAL levels were independently associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality. Moreover, when NGAL was entered in the multivariable risk prediction model, eGFR (
P
=0.616) and cystatin C (
P
=0.937) were no longer associated with mortality.

Conclusions—

Plasma NGAL predicts mortality in patients with heart failure, both in patients with and without chronic kidney disease and is a stronger predictor for mortality than the established renal function indices eGFR and cystatin C.
Inflammation and Mechanical Stretch Promote Aortic Stiffening in Hypertension Through Activation of p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Wu Jing , Thabet Salim R. , Kirabo Annet , Trott Daniel W. , Saleh Mohamed A. , Xiao Liang , Madhur Meena S. , Chen Wei , Harrison David G.
Published: December 2013

Rationale
:

Aortic stiffening commonly occurs in hypertension and further elevates systolic pressure. Hypertension is also associated with vascular inflammation and increased mechanical stretch. The interplay between inflammation, mechanical stretch, and aortic stiffening in hypertension remains undefined.

Objective
:

Our aim was to determine the role of inflammation and mechanical stretch in aortic stiffening.

Methods and Results
:

Chronic angiotensin II infusion caused marked aortic adventitial collagen deposition, as quantified by Masson trichrome blue staining and biochemically by hydroxyproline content, in wild-type but not in recombination activating gene-1–deficient mice. Aortic compliance, defined by ex vivo measurements of stress–strain curves, was reduced by chronic angiotensin II infusion in wild-type mice (
P
<0.01) but not in recombination activating gene-1–deficient mice (
P
<0.05). Adoptive transfer of T-cells to recombination activating gene-1–deficient mice restored aortic collagen deposition and stiffness to values observed in wild-type mice. Mice lacking the T-cell–derived cytokine interleukin 17a were also protected against aortic stiffening. In additional studies, we found that blood pressure normalization by treatment with hydralazine and hydrochlorothiazide prevented angiotensin II–induced vascular T-cell infiltration, aortic stiffening, and collagen deposition. Finally, we found that mechanical stretch induces the expression of collagen 1α1, 3α1, and 5a1 in cultured aortic fibroblasts in a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase–dependent fashion, and that inhibition of p38 prevented angiotensin II–induced aortic stiffening in vivo. Interleukin 17a also induced collagen 3a1 expression via the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase.

Conclusions
:

Our data define a pathway in which inflammation and mechanical stretch lead to vascular inflammation that promotes collagen deposition. The resultant increase in aortic stiffness likely further worsens systolic hypertension and its attendant end-organ damage.
Bicuspid Aortic Cusp Fusion Morphology Alters Aortic Three-Dimensional Outflow Patterns, Wall Shear Stress, and Expression of Aortopathy
Authors: Mahadevia Riti , Barker Alex J. , Schnell Susanne , Entezari Pegah , Kansal Preeti , Fedak Paul W.M. , Malaisrie S. Chris , McCarthy Patrick , Collins Jeremy , Carr James , Markl Michael
Published: December 2013

Background—

Aortic 3-dimensional blood flow was analyzed to investigate altered ascending aorta (AAo) hemodynamics in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients and its association with differences in cusp fusion patterns (right-left, RL versus right-noncoronary, RN) and expression of aortopathy.

Methods and Results—

Four-dimensional flow MRI measured in vivo 3-dimensional blood flow in the aorta of 75 subjects: BAV patients with aortic dilatation stratified by leaflet fusion pattern (n=15 RL-BAV, mid AAo diameter=39.9±4.4 mm; n=15 RN-BAV, 39.6±7.2 mm); aorta size controls with tricuspid aortic valves (n=30, 41.0±4.4 mm); healthy volunteers (n=15, 24.9±3.0 mm). Aortopathy type (0–3), systolic flow angle, flow displacement, and regional wall shear stress were determined for all subjects. Eccentric outflow jet patterns in BAV patients resulted in elevated regional wall shear stress (
P
<0.0125) at the right-anterior walls for RL-BAV and right-posterior walls for RN-BAV in comparison with aorta size controls. Dilatation of the aortic root only (type 1) or involving the entire AAo and arch (type 3) was found in the majority of RN-BAV patients (87%) but was mostly absent for RL-BAV patients (87% type 2). Differences in aortopathy type between RL-BAV and RN-BAV patients were associated with altered flow displacement in the proximal and mid AAo for type 1 (42%–81% decrease versus type 2) and distal AAo for type 3 (33%–39% increase versus type 2).

Conclusions—

The presence and type of BAV fusion was associated with changes in regional wall shear stress distribution, systolic flow eccentricity, and expression of BAV aortopathy. Hemodynamic markers suggest a physiological mechanism by which the valve morphology phenotype can influence phenotypes of BAV aortopathy.
Worldwide Epidemiology of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Chugh Sumeet S. , Havmoeller Rasmus , Narayanan Kumar , Singh David , Rienstra Michiel , Benjamin Emelia J. , Gillum Richard F. , Kim Young-Hoon , McAnulty John H. , Zheng Zhi-Jie , Forouzanfar Mohammad H. , Naghavi Mohsen , Mensah George A. , Ezzati Majid , Murray Christopher J.L.
Published: December 2013

Background—

The global burden of atrial fibrillation (AF) is unknown.

Methods and Results—

We systematically reviewed population-based studies of AF published from 1980 to 2010 from the 21 Global Burden of Disease regions to estimate global/regional prevalence, incidence, and morbidity and mortality related to AF (DisModMR software). Of 377 potential studies identified, 184 met prespecified eligibility criteria. The estimated number of individuals with AF globally in 2010 was 33.5 million (20.9 million men [95% uncertainty interval (UI), 19.5–22.2 million] and 12.6 million women [95% UI, 12.0–13.7 million]). Burden associated with AF, measured as disability-adjusted life-years, increased by 18.8% (95% UI, 15.8–19.3) in men and 18.9% (95% UI, 15.8–23.5) in women from 1990 to 2010. In 1990, the estimated age-adjusted prevalence rates of AF (per 100 000 population) were 569.5 in men (95% UI, 532.8–612.7) and 359.9 in women (95% UI, 334.7–392.6); the estimated age-adjusted incidence rates were 60.7 per 100 000 person-years in men (95% UI, 49.2–78.5) and 43.8 in women (95% UI, 35.9–55.0). In 2010, the prevalence rates increased to 596.2 (95% UI, 558.4–636.7) in men and 373.1 (95% UI, 347.9–402.2) in women; the incidence rates increased to 77.5 (95% UI, 65.2–95.4) in men and 59.5 (95% UI, 49.9–74.9) in women. Mortality associated with AF was higher in women and increased by 2-fold (95% UI, 2.0–2.2) and 1.9-fold (95% UI, 1.8–2.0) in men and women, respectively, from 1990 to 2010. There was evidence of significant regional heterogeneity in AF estimations and availability of population-based data.

Conclusions—

These findings provide evidence of progressive increases in overall burden, incidence, prevalence, and AF-associated mortality between 1990 and 2010, with significant public health implications. Systematic, regional surveillance of AF is required to better direct prevention and treatment strategies.
Reperfusion Injury on Magnetic Resonance Imaging After Carotid Revascularization
Authors: Cho A-Hyun , Cho Yong-Pil , Lee Deok Hee , Kwon Tae-Won , Kwon Sun U. , Suh Dae-Chul , Kim Jong S. , Kang Dong-Wha
Published: December 2013

Background and Purpose—

Reperfusion injury can be revealed as delayed gadolinium enhancement in the subarachnoid space on a fluid-attenuated inversion recovery image, which is designated as a hyperintense acute reperfusion marker (HARM). We sought to investigate the occurrence and predictors of HARM and its association with new ischemic infarcts after carotid revascularization.

Methods—

Forty-five patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy or stenting were prospectively enrolled. Diffusion-weighted imaging and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery were performed before and 24 hours after the procedures. Postprocedural fluid-attenuated inversion recovery was done after intravenous gadolinium injection.

Results—

HARM was observed in 8 (17.8%) patients. Of these, 4 patients showed neurological deterioration associated with HARM. These symptomatic HARMs disappeared on follow-up magnetic resonance imaging. Patients with symptomatic HARM were older (
P
=0.010) and had more frequent leukoaraiosis (
P
=0.012) and higher postprocedural systolic blood pressure (
P
=0.025) than those without. New brain infarcts on postprocedural diffusion-weighted imaging were identified in 13 (28.9%) patients. HARM was not associated with new infarcts.

Conclusions—

HARM after carotid revascularization is not uncommon. Symptomatic HARM was associated with old age, underlying leukoaraiosis, and postprocedural high blood pressure.
Paratylenchus shenzhenensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Paratylenchinae) from the rhizosphere soil of Anthurium andraeanum in China
Authors: WANG KE , XIE HUI , LI YU , XU CHUN-LING , YU LU , WANG DONG-WEI
Published: December 2013

Paratylenchus shenzhenensis n. sp. was collected from the rhizosphere soil of Anthurium andraeanum in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China. The new species is characterized by having a female with a small body (249–302 μm), well developed stylet (17–21 μm), rounded head with four submedian lobes and lip-region with a slight depression at the oral area, small post-vulval uterine sac with a few vestigial cells; male with body dorsally curved behind the cloacal opening, stylet absent, pharynx degenerate, prominent penial sheath; and juveniles with a stylet. It is morphologically similar to P. minutus. The internal transcribed spacer sequences of ribosomal DNA (ITS-rDNA) of the new species only have 72–73% identity with P. minutus, confirming its status as a separate species. The D2/D3 region of 28S ribosomal DNA (28S rDNA) and 18S small subunit ribosomal DNA (18S rDNA) from P. shenzhenensis n. sp. were also amplified and sequenced in this study.
The use of the prefix Pan- and other problems in zoological family-series nomenclature
Authors: LOUCHART ANTOINE , VIRIOT LAURENT , DUBOIS ALAIN
Published: December 2013

Zoological nomenclature is the obligate medium by which we communicate taxonomic information, and a series of precise nomenclatural rules are designed to minimize confusion and ambiguity. The longest used, internationally applicable system of nomenclature is “Linnaean Nomenclature” (LN) (Polaszek & Wilson 2005), which has provided a stable platform capable of simultaneously designating discrete taxa and conveying their phylogenetic relationships, through the use of  scientific names (nomina; Dubois 2000). Precise adherence to the rules of nomenclature as defined by the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) is all the more important today when zoologists have millions of taxa to name. The recent importation of exogenous practices into LN is both confusing and inacceptable under the rules of the ICZN. Such practices include the use of a prefix Pan- in the family-series nomenclature. The nomenclature of all taxa from rank subspecies to superfamily is regulated by the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN Code; Anonymous 1999). This means that all zoologists who endorse LN should use nomina complying with the rules of the ICZN Code for taxa of all ranks, including those from superfamily to subtribe and additional intermediate ranks of the nominal family group, also called family-series. However, some recent publications using LN do not follow the ICZN Code in several respects, concerning in particular (1) the rules of formation of nomina and (2) their authorship and date. Recent articles involving fossil birds (Smith 2011, 2013; Smith & Mayr 2013), explicitly or implicitly following the ICZN Code, illustrate both problems, representative of these recent practices. We wish to emphasize that our comments are in no way criticisms directed toward the core information of these studies, otherwise extremely useful, but rather a more general and formal invitation to follow more closely the ICZN Code. We found few other published examples of similar practice concerning birds (“Pan-Apodidae” in Mayr & Manegold 2002, also used by Ksepka et al. 2013; “Pan-Trochilidae” in Mayr & Manegold 2002 and Mayr 2007; “Pan-Hemiprocnidae” in Mayr & Manegold 2002; for articles published in a LN frame). We use hereafter the “Pan-Alcidae” example.
Vertical Mixing and the Temperature and Wind Structure of the Tropical Tropopause Layer
Authors: Flannaghan Thomas J. , Fueglistaler Stephan
Published: December 2013

Vertical mixing may lead to significant momentum and heat fluxes in the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) and these momentum and heat fluxes can force large climatological temperature and zonal wind changes in the TTL. The climatology of vertical mixing and associated momentum and heat fluxes as parameterized in the Interim ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) and as parameterized by the mixing scheme currently used in the ECMWF operational analyses are presented. Each scheme produces a very different climatology showing that the momentum and heat fluxes arising from vertical mixing are highly dependent on the scheme used. A dry GCM is then forced with momentum and heat fluxes similar to those seen in ERA-Interim to assess the potential impact of such momentum and heat fluxes. A significant response in the TTL is found, leading to a temperature perturbation of approximately 4 K and a zonal wind perturbation of approximately 12 m s−1. These temperature and zonal wind perturbations are approximately zonally symmetric, are approximately linear perturbations to the unforced climatology, and are confined to the TTL between approximately 10°N and 10°S. There is also a smaller-amplitude tropospheric component to the response. The results presented herein indicate that vertical mixing can have a large but uncertain effect on the TTL and that the choice and impact of the vertical mixing scheme should be an important consideration when modeling the TTL.
Correlates of Political and Civic Engagement Among Youth During the 2012 Presidential Campaign
Authors: Wicks Robert H. , Wicks Jan LeBlanc , Morimoto Shauna A. , Maxwell Angie , Schulte Stephanie Ricker
Published: December 2013

A national mail survey of adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 ( n = 876) was conducted immediately before the U.S. presidential election (October 2012) to investigate socialization agents that may correlate with political and civic engagement. The relative importance of potential correlates of engagement including demographics, parents, peers, schools, religion, traditional media, social networks, and digital communication were evaluated. Regression analysis revealed that civically engaged youth identify with a religion, participate in civic education activities at school and extracurricular activities, take action (e.g., boycotting or buycotting), develop attitudes about citizenship, and engage in online/social media political activities. Politically engaged youth come from higher income households, discuss news and politics, take action, and are very prone to engage in online/social media political activities. While a wider range of activities appear to be related to civic engagement, those who are politically engaged appear to have a strong interest in online media usage. Implications are discussed.
Testing a Model of Officer Intentions to Quit
Authors: Allisey Amanda F. , Noblet Andrew J. , Lamontagne Anthony D. , Houdmont Jonathan
Published: December 2013

Voluntary turnover among law enforcement personnel is a significant concern. However, few studies have considered potential intermediate linkages in the relationship between working conditions and officers’ quit/stay intentions. Utilizing a large cross-sectional sample of U.K.-based officers ( n = 1,789, response rate = 25%), a mediational model of officer turnover intentions was tested. Findings indicated that a number of key psychosocial conditions specified in the U.K. Health and Safety Executive Management Standards Indicator Tool (e.g., job demands, role clarity) were associated with officer intentions to leave; however, when job stress and job satisfaction were entered into the model, these relationships were either reduced, or no longer significant. Findings indicated that task-oriented conditions were more strongly associated with job stress while relational or socially oriented conditions were stronger predictors of job satisfaction. These results highlight that monitoring stress and satisfaction may be a valuable component of officer retention efforts, and could offer early-warning of impending turnover among staff.
Isolated Cerebellar Involvement in Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Authors: Chakrabarty Biswaroop , Dubey Rachana , Gulati Sheffali , Yoganathan Sangeetha , Kumar Ajay , Kumar Atin
Published: December 2013

Deficiency of vitamin B12 causes megaloblastic anemia and nervous system demyelination. Structures affected in the nervous system include spinal cord, cranial and peripheral nerves, and brain white matter. A 9-year-old boy presented with knuckle hyperpigmentation and oral ulcers for 3 years, pallor and easy fatigability for 6 months, gait abnormalities for 3 months, and abnormal speech and behavioral abnormalities for 3 days. On examination, he had physical signs of megaloblastic anemia, mood swings with intermittent hallucinations, and features of cerebellar impairment. Blood investigations revealed megaloblastic anemia, and pernicious anemia was ruled out. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed bilateral cerebellar signal changes. He received treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency and appropriate nutritional counseling. Three months later, he showed significant clinical and radiologic resolution. To our knowledge, isolated cerebellar involvement as the sole neurologic manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency has not been described previously in children.
A comparative study between combustion performances of turbine inter-guide-vane burner and trapped vortex combustor
Authors: Zheng Haifei , Tang Hao , Xu Xingya , Li Ming
Published: December 2013

To improve the performance of aero gas turbine engines, more and more interests have been shown on turbine inter-guide-vane burner based on the ultra-compact combustion concept. To make a universal turbine inter-guide-vane burner, a new concept is proposed using a trapped vortex cavity to replace the high swirling circumferential cavity combustor to address the need to scale the configuration for a larger turbine spool. Three models, including trapped vortex combustor, transition model, and turbine inter-guide-vane burner, are designed. Comparative analysis between combustion performances of three models by using numerical simulation method is carried out. The scale-adaptive simulation turbulence model is used in the simulation process, aiming to reduce the deviation between numerical simulation value and actual value. Finally, the turbine inter-guide-vane burner model is found to be the superior design proposal for turbine inter-guide-vane combustion technology, compared with the other two models.
Category work in courtroom talk about domestic violence: Gender as an interactional accomplishment in child custody disputes
Authors: Ingrids Henrik
Published: December 2013

This article examines how domestic violence and its effects on post-separation family life are dealt with within child custody disputes. Drawing on membership categorization analysis, audio-recorded courtroom testimonies from abused mothers seeking sole custody have been analysed. It was found that gendered categories like ‘male perpetrator’ and ‘female victim’ were central components in the mothers’ accounts of their legal claims, serving to support their claims of fearing the fathers of their children. However, the analyses also reveal that the opposing party attempted to contest and undermine such accounts during cross-examinations by substituting the very same categorizations. Such re-categorizations, for example from ‘female victim’ to ‘mad woman’, take the responsibility for the mother’s alleged fear away from the father. In exploring the relevance of gendered categories in mothers’ accounts, the article provides empirical examples of the subtle and complex ways through which gender discourses are manifested in child custody disputes in order to support or contest legal claims.
Modulatory effects of l-carnitine on tamoxifen toxicity and oncolytic activity
Authors: Ibrahim AB , Mansour HH , Shouman SA , Eissa AA , Abu El Nour SM
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of l-carnitine (l-CAR) in tamoxifen (TAM)-induced toxicity and antitumor activity. Adult female rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group I was served as control, groups II and III were treated with TAM (10 mg/kg, periorally) and l-CAR (300 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), respectively, while group IV was treated with both compounds. The treatment continued daily for 28 days. Administration of TAM resulted in significant increase in serum lipid profiles, liver enzymes, and bilirubin level. TAM produced a significant increase in lipid peroxides (LPO) level and nonsignificant change in nitrogen oxide (NO( x)) level accompanied with significant decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of hepatic and uterus tissues and significant decrease in glutathione (GSH) content of uterus tissue. Administration of l-CAR for 1 h prior to TAM treatment decreased serum lipids and liver enzymes significantly and significantly increased SOD activity in liver and uterus tissues compared with TAM-treated group. Furthermore, it restored LPO and GSH levels and increased NO( x) level in uterus tissue. DNA fragmentation and the apoptotic marker, caspase-3, were not detected in the liver of all treated groups. Histopathologically, alterations in the liver and uterus structures after TAM treatment, which was attenuated after l-CAR administration. The antitumor effect and survival of the combined treatment of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC)-bearing mice was less than each one alone. l-CAR interestingly increased survival rate of EAC-bearing mice more than TAM-treated group. In conclusion, l-CAR has beneficial effects regarding TAM toxicity; however, it interferes with its antitumor effect.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Pycnogenol on Plasma Lipids
Authors: Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: December 2013

Background:

Pycnogenol, the standardized flavonoid-rich extract from the bark of French maritime pine ( Pinus pinaster Ait), has been shown to modify a number of cardiovascular risk factors. However, that Pycnogenol modulates plasma lipid levels is unclear due to the inconsistent findings.

Objective:

To examine the impact of Pycnogenol on lipid profile through a meta-analysis of available controlled clinical trials.

Methods:

Controlled trials assessing the effects of Pycnogenol on lipid parameters (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], and triglycerides) were identified by electronic search in Medline and Scopus. Weighed mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated as effect size using random-effects meta-analysis. Sensitivity and meta-regression (for Pycnogenol dose and duration of supplementation) analyses were carried out using leave-one-out and unrestricted maximum likelihood methods, respectively.

Results:

A total of 7 trials comprising 442 patients (226 in the Pycnogenol and 216 in the control group) were identified. Meta-analysis did not reveal any significant effect of Pycnogenol on lipid parameters: total cholesterol: WMD: −0.03 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.34 to 0.28, P = .83; LDL-C: WMD: −0.07 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.29 to 0.15, P = .54; HDL-C: WMD: 0.00 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.04 to 0.05, P = .86; and triglycerides: WMD: 0.05 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.12 to 0.23, P = .55. All these effect sizes were robust in sensitivity analyses. Apart from a dose–effect association for the effect of Pycnogenol on LDL-C, there was no other association between Pycnogenol dose or its duration of supplementation with changes in any of the lipid parameters.

Conclusion:

Current clinical evidence does not suggest any significant effect of Pycnogenol on fasting lipid profile.
Maternal Ratings of the ADHD Symptoms
Authors: Gomez Rapson , Vance Alasdair , Gomez Rashika Miranjani
Published: December 2013

Objective: This study used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), latent class analysis (LCA), and factor mixture model (FMM) to ascertain the best model for ADHD symptoms, as presented in the Strengths and Weaknesses of ADHD-Symptoms and Normal Behavior Scale (SWAN). Method: Mother ratings of the ADHD symptoms of 418 clinic-referred children and adolescents were obtained. Results: The findings provided most support for an FMM with two classes (less severe inattention [IA] and hyperactivity/impulsivity [HI] symptoms and more severe IA/HI symptoms) and two factors (IA and HI) model. The more severe class had more individuals with the ADHD diagnosis, especially the combined type. Conclusion: The findings are discussed in relation to dimensional and categorical views of ADHD.
Female friendship and gender transformation
Authors: Bachmann Laurence
Published: December 2013

This article explores the ways in which friendships between women may promote gender transformation. The study is based on 25 in-depth interviews with young women in Geneva disposed to gender transformation but not necessarily considering themselves to be ‘feminist’. The findings, based on a dispositional and contextual analysis, show that female friendships provide women with a place where they find respite from men, become aware of gender relations, take action to further their emancipation and receive support for changes made. Furthermore, this research shows the way in which women are shaped by their friendships (being supported or influenced by them), but also how they shape them actively to model their emerging critical dispositions (selecting them, making use of them or moving away from them). It therefore indicates how women are active in modelling their dispositions within the dynamics of gender relations and other social forces.
Comparative analysis of textured and grooved hydrodynamic journal bearing
Authors: Kango S , Sharma RK , Pandey RK
Published: December 2013

Research is being focused on to find the influence of surface variations such as texturing or grooving on the bearing performances. Though, earlier it was restricted to the theoretical aspects alone, however, with the help of advance manufacturing techniques (laser surface texturing, etching, special grinding process, etc.), it has become possible to produce micro-textures or grooves on the surface of journal bearing. The objective of the present study is to numerically compare the influence of spherical texture and micro-grooving (longitudinal and transverse) on friction coefficient and average temperature of journal bearing at low and high eccentricity ratios. From the findings, it has been observed that the micro-grooving reduces the friction coefficient and average temperature is maximum in comparison with spherical texture.
Measuring Rater Reliability on a Special Education Observation Tool
Authors: Semmelroth Carrie Lisa , Johnson Evelyn
Published: December 2013

This study used generalizability theory to measure reliability on the Recognizing Effective Special Education Teachers (RESET) observation tool designed to evaluate special education teacher effectiveness. At the time of this study, the RESET tool included three evidence-based instructional practices (direct, explicit instruction; whole-group instruction; and discrete trial teaching) as the basis for special education teacher evaluation. Five raters participated in two sessions to evaluate special education classroom instruction collected from two school years, via the Teachscape 360-degree video system. Data collected from raters were analyzed in a two-facet “partially” nested design where occasions ( o) were nested within teachers ( t), o:t, and crossed with raters ( r), { o:t} x r. Results from this study are in alignment with similar studies that found multiple observations and multiple raters are critical for ensuring acceptable levels of measurement score reliability. Considerations for the feasibility of practice should be observed in future reliability and validity studies on the RESET tool, and further work is needed to address the lack of research on rater reliability issues within special education teacher evaluation.
Technology to aid continuous professional development
Authors: Gandhi Hussain
Published: December 2013

Continuous professional development (CPD) is a constant endeavour for the modern GP. As part of revalidation, it is a key component of maintaining competencies and a key pillar of the Royal College of General Practitioners' First5® initiative. So why not use technology to help complete your CPD endeavours? This article will cover a variety of ways that AiTs or GPs can use technology to enhance how they perform, log and even share their efforts on CPD.
The Prostate Health Index: a new test for the detection of prostate cancer
Authors: Loeb Stacy , Catalona William J.
Published: December 2013

A major focus in urologic research is the identification of new biomarkers with improved specificity for clinically-significant prostate cancer. A promising new test based on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is called the Prostate Health Index (PHI), which has recently been approved in the United States, Europe and Australia. PHI is a mathematical formula that combines total PSA, free PSA and [-2] proPSA. Numerous international studies have consistently shown that PHI outperforms its individual components for the prediction of overall and high-grade prostate cancer on biopsy. PHI also predicts the likelihood of progression during active surveillance, providing another noninvasive modality to potentially select and monitor this patient population. This article reviews the evidence on this new blood test with significant promise for both prostate cancer screening and treatment decision-making.
Educational innovation for infection control in Tanzania: bridging the policy to practice gap
Authors: Jones Mark , Whitfield Ann , Thomas Susan , Gower Shelley , Michael Rene
Published: December 2013

The incidence of hospital acquired infection in developing countries is between two to 20 times higher than in developed countries and is attributable to multiple causes. Evidence-based international policies and guidelines developed to improve infection prevention and control are often not used in practice in these countries. To combat this challenge, this article presents an innovative educational framework used to bridge the gap between policy written by global health agencies and the realities of practice in Tanzania.
Finding a Meaningful Life as a Developmental Task in Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Mayseless Ofra , Keren Einat
Published: December 2013

Two central life domains, love and work, are described as the focus of identity exploration in emerging adulthood. The present theoretical overview suggests an additional perspective. Current postmodern processes in Western industrialized countries set the stage for the saliency of a new developmental task in emerging adulthood: finding the meaningful life. This task is enacted in various domains of life including love and work. The pursuit in either domain is different in diverse cultures that ascribe different levels of importance and allow different levels of autonomy in each domain. Thus, a given domain may be more or less salient as a source of meaning in life. The studies in this special issue accord with this new viewpoint even though they were not conceptualized from this perspective. Current research has just begun to examine the search for meaningful life in emerging adulthood. Research is therefore called for to address this lacuna.
A targeted mutational landscape of angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Odejide Oreofe , Weigert Oliver , Lane Andrew A. , Toscano Dan , Lunning Matthew A. , Kopp Nadja , Kim Sunhee , van Bodegom Diederik , Bolla Sudha , Schatz Jonathan H. , Teruya-Feldstein Julie , Hochberg Ephraim , Louissaint Abner , Dorfman David , Stevenson Kristen , Rodig Scott J. , Piccaluga Pier Paolo , Jacobsen Eric , Pileri Stefano A. , Harris Nancy L. , Ferrero Simone , Inghirami Giorgio , Horwitz Steven M. , Weinstock David M.
Published: December 2013

Key Points

AITL is characterized by high frequencies of overlapping mutations in epigenetic modifiers, including TET2, IDH2, and DNMT3A. Targetable mutations are present in a subset of cases.