bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging improvement by prestack signal enhancement
Authors: Buzlukov Vadim , Landa Evgeny
Published: June 2013

The quality of recorded seismic data depends on many factors and a low signal‐to‐noise ratio leads to a low quality of processing and imaging. The zero‐offset common‐reflection‐surface stack and multifocusing methods have been successfully applied to improve the prestack signal‐to‐noise ratio by the partial summation of coherent seismic events. However, in the case of non‐hyperbolic traveltime behaviour of seismic events these approaches can result in non‐optimal partial summation.

We develop a local common‐offset approximation for the traveltime stacking surface. It allows us to adequately approximate the traveltimes of reflection events in the vicinity of an arbitrary offset. Here, the stacking operator is interpreted as a local second‐order traveltime approximation of the seismic event and it is used for the purpose of partial summation. An algorithm and a numerical implementation scheme are discussed. The proposed signal enhancement procedure was applied to synthetic and real 3D data. Imaging results of the enhanced data show a high potential for reliable imaging in complex subsurface environments.
Long‐term seed survival and dispersal dynamics in a rodent‐dispersed tree: testing the predator satiation hypothesis and the predator dispersal hypothesis
Authors: Xiao Zhishu , Zhang Zhibin , Krebs Charles J.
Published: June 2013

Mast seeding in animal‐dispersed plants has previously been accounted for by two main hypotheses: the predator satiation hypothesis (that it increases seed survival and establishment before dispersal) and the predator dispersal hypothesis (that it increases seed dispersal or dispersal distance). However, neither hypothesis has been rigorously tested with simultaneous data on seed production, seed predation and seed dispersal by vertebrate seed predators.

We studied oil tea Camellia oleifera (Theaceae) seed production for eight years (2002–2009) in a subtropical forest in south‐west China, and investigated how annual seed and rodent abundance determined per capita seed availability for rodent seed predators and seed dispersers and how seed and rodent abundance were related to seed dispersal and seed survival via scatter‐hoarding. We predicted the patterns of seed dispersal and survival to test the two hypotheses about mast seeding. Edward's long‐tailed rat Leopoldamys edwardsi acted as the principal seed disperser of oil tea seeds because of scatter‐hoarding, while other sympatric rodent species acted only as seed predators.

We first provided a reasonable method to estimate per capita seed availability based on annual seed abundance and annual metabolic rodent abundance (corrected for metabolic‐scaling body mass of each rodent species). We found that annual seed abundance, annual metabolic rodent abundance and per capita seed availability all had some significant effects on different estimators of seed fates (including dispersal distances) across each stage from seedfall to seedling establishment. Both annual seed abundance and per capita seed availability were positively correlated with pre‐dispersal seed survival, but negatively correlated with scatter‐hoarding (and recaching), seed survival after dispersal and dispersal distances. However, annual metabolic rodent abundance had a positive effect on scatter‐hoarding, but had a negative effect on the time to cache recovery.

Synthesis. Since greater seed production was associated with improvement in pre‐dispersal survival of oil tea seeds but a reduction in dispersal (including secondary dispersal and dispersal distance), our long‐term study indicates that, compared with the predator dispersal hypothesis, the predator satiation hypothesis provides a better mechanism predicting seed dispersal and seed survival in animal‐dispersed plants by integrating seed abundance and animal abundance.
Recurrent motifs as resonant attractor states in the narrative field: a testable model of archetype
Authors: Goodwyn Erik
Published: June 2013

At the most basic level, archetypes represented Jung's attempt to explain the phenomenon of recurrent myths and folktale motifs (Jung 1956, 1959, para. 99). But the archetype remains controversial as an explanation of recurrent motifs, as the existence of recurrent motifs does not prove that archetypes exist. Thus, the challenge for contemporary archetype theory is not merely to demonstrate that recurrent motifs exist, since that is not disputed, but to demonstrate thatarchetypesexist andcauserecurrent motifs. The present paper proposes a new model which is unlike others in that it postulateshowthe archetype creates resonant motifs. This model necessarily clarifies and adapts some of Jung's seminal ideas on archetype in order to provide a working framework grounded in contemporary practice and methodologies. For the first time, a model of archetype is proposed that can be validated on empirical, rather than theoretical grounds. This is achieved by linking the archetype to the hard data of recurrent motifs rather than academic trends in other fields.
Mobility impairment is associated with urge but not stress urinary incontinence in community‐dwelling older women: results from the Ossébo study
Authors: Fritel X , Lachal L , Cassou B , Fauconnier A , Dargent‐Molina P
Published: June 2013

Objective

To assess the association between functional limitations related to mobility and urinary incontinence (UI) in elderly women.

Design

An observational cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Nine ‘balance’ workshops in France.

Population

A total of 1942 community‐dwelling women aged 75–85 years, who were invited, based on voter registration lists, to a ‘balance assessment’.

Methods

Mobility and balance test results for incontinent women were compared with those for continent women according to the severity and type of incontinence.

Main outcome measures

Data on UI were collected using a self‐administered questionnaire (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire—Short Form). Motor‐related physical abilities were assessed using standardised balance and functional gait tests.

Results

Forty‐two per cent of women had involuntary urine leakage, with daily leaks in 57% of them; 24% had stress UI, 31% had urge UI, and 37% had mixed UI. Results for each functional test were poorer for women with UI and the limitation was more pronounced when the incontinence was severe. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that balance and gait impairments were significantly and independently associated with urge UI (walking speed, lower versus higher quartile, odds ratio (OR) 2.2; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.4–3.5; walking balance, unable versus able to do four tandem steps (OR 1.6; 95% CI 1.2–2.2) but not with stress UI.

Conclusions

In this large population of older women living at home, there was a strong association between limitation of motor and balance skills and UI, which was proportional to the severity of incontinence and related specifically to urge incontinence. These results offer new perspectives on the prevention and treatment of urge incontinence in elderly women.
Reducing nutrient loads from dairy farms: a bioeconomic model with endogenous feeding and land use
Authors: Helin Janne Antero
Published: June 2013

Growth trends of animal farming pose a threat to water quality around the world. To find cost‐efficient means to reduce nutrient loads from agriculture, detailed information on the abatement measures need to be incorporated in bioeconomic models. This study presents a theoretical framework that covers both animal and crop operations on farms. It describes the farmer decision making problem and incorporates nonlinear functions to capture the economic and biological aspects of the problem. The model is applied to Finnish dairy farms. The abatement cost functions are derived for nitrogen and phosphorus. Results indicate that abatement measures on fields should precede dietary changes.
Heart Rate Variability and Heart Rate Turbulence in HIV‐Infected Patients Receiving Combination Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Wongcharoen Wanwarang , Khienprasit Kolakrit , Phrommintikul Arintaya , Sukonthasarn Apichard , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: June 2013

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated the presence of autonomic dysfunction in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected patients. However, the data in those receiving combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) are conflicting. The aim of this study was to assess the autonomic function using heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence (HRT) analysis in HIV‐infected patients receiving cART.

Methods

Eighty‐one HIV‐infected patients receiving cART and 42 control subjects were enrolled in the study. The HRV and HRT parameters were assessed on 24‐hour digital Holter electrocardiogram recordings.

Results

Baseline characteristics were comparable between HIV‐infected and control subjects, except the higher fasting glucose and triglyceride and lower high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol observed in HIV‐infected patients. All components of HRV were significantly reduced in HIV‐infected patients. After adjustment with biochemical parameters, most of the HRV parameters were still significantly reduced in HIV‐infected patients. However, HRV parameters reflecting vagal activity were no longer different between 2 groups. In addition, HRT parameters did not differ between HIV‐infected and control subjects. The standard deviation of normal‐to‐normal intervals significantly correlated with CD4 lymphocyte counts in HIV‐infected patients but did not with protease inhibitors therapy.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the overall decrease in HRV in HIV‐infected patients receiving cART. The metabolic disturbance observed in HIV‐infected patients possibly accounted for decreased vagal activity.
ECG Quantification of Myocardial Scar and Risk Stratification in MADIT‐II
Authors: Loring Zak , Zareba Wojciech , McNitt Scott , Strauss David G. , Wagner Galen S. , Daubert James P.
Published: June 2013

Background

Low left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) increases risk for both sudden cardiac death (SCD) and for heart failure (HF) death; however, implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) reduce the incidence of SCD, not HF death. Distinguishing individuals at risk for HF death (non‐SCD) versus SCD could improve ICD patient selection.

Objective

This study evaluated whether electrocardiogram (ECG) quantification of myocardial infarction (MI) could discriminate risk for SCD versus non‐SCD.

Methods

Selvester QRS scoring was performed on 995 MADIT‐II trial subjects’ ECGs to quantify MI size. MIs were categorized as small (0–3 QRS points), medium (4–7) or large (≥8). Mortality, SCD and non‐SCD rates in the conventional medical therapy (CMT) arm and mortality and ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT/VF) rates in the ICD arm were analyzed by QRS score group. Both arms were analyzed to determine ICD efficacy by QRS score group.

Results

In the CMT arm, mortality, SCD and non‐SCD rates were similar across QRS score groups (P = 0.73, P = 0.92, and P = 0.77). The ICD arm showed similar rates of mortality (P = 0.17) and VT/VF (P = 0.24) across QRS score groups. ICD arm mortality was lower than CMT arm mortality across QRS score groups with greatest benefit in the large scar group.

Conclusion

Recently, QRS score was shown to be predictive of VT/VF in the SCD‐HeFT population consisting of both ischemic and nonischemic HF and having a maximum LVEF of 35% versus 30% for MADIT‐II. Our study found that QRS score did not add prognostic value in the MADIT‐II population exhibiting relatively more severe cardiac dysfunction.
Evaluating clinical significance: Incorporating robust statistics with normative comparison tests
Authors: van Wieringen Katrina , Cribbie Robert A.
Published: June 2013

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a modified test of equivalence for conducting normative comparisons when distribution shapes are non‐normal and variances are unequal. A Monte Carlo study was used to compare the empirical Type I error rates and power of the proposed Schuirmann–Yuen test of equivalence, which utilizes trimmed means, with that of the previously recommended Schuirmann and Schuirmann–Welch tests of equivalence when the assumptions of normality and variance homogeneity are satisfied, as well as when they are not satisfied. The empirical Type I error rates of the Schuirmann–Yuen were much closer to the nominal α level than those of the Schuirmann or Schuirmann–Welch tests, and the power of the Schuirmann–Yuen was substantially greater than that of the Schuirmann or Schuirmann–Welch tests when distributions were skewed or outliers were present. The Schuirmann–Yuen test is recommended for assessing clinical significance with normative comparisons.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy: New Findings for an Old Pathology
Authors: Bottai Daniele , Adami Raffaella
Published: June 2013

Understanding the events that are responsible for a disease is mandatory for setting up a therapeutic strategy. Although spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is considered a rare neurodegenerative pathology, its impact in our society is really devastating as it strikes young people from birth onward, and it affects their families either emotionally or financially. Moreover, it requires intensive care for the children, and this diverts both parents and relatives from their occupations. Each neuron is very different from one another; therefore, in a neurodegenerative disease, the population of axons, synapses and cell bodies degenerate asynchronously, and subpopulations of neurons have different vulnerabilities. The knowledge of the sequence of events along the lengths of individual neurons is crucial to understand if each synapse degenerates before the corresponding axon, or if each axon degenerates before the corresponding cell body. Early degeneration of one neuronal compartment in disease often reflects molecular defects somewhere else. Up until now, SMA is considered mostly a lower motor neuron disease caused by the loss‐of‐function mutations in the SMN1 gene; here, we inspect other features that can be altered by this defect, such as the cross talk between muscle and motor neuron and the role of physical inactivity.
Phantom rectum following abdominoperineal excision for rectal neoplasm: appearance and disappearance
Authors: Reategui C. , Chiang F. F. , Rosen L. , Sands D. , Weiss E. G. , Wexner S. D.
Published: June 2013

Aim

The sensation that the rectum remains or is functioning after abdominoperineal excision (APE) is called phantom rectum (PR). Its postoperative and long‐term morbidity are not well documented. Informed consent may not include the risk and consequences of this condition. We assessed the incidence and morbidity of PR after APE and compared those with vs those without vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps.

Method

Patients who underwent APE between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2008 were identified. Preoperative radiation and operative reconstruction by vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flaps were noted. Patients were interviewed by telephone to assess the presence and timing of PR symptoms and their effect on quality of life.

Results

Thirty‐six of 80 patients who underwent APE were available for follow‐up. Twenty‐three (64%) described PR symptoms including urgency to evacuate [22 (61%)], sensation of faeces in the rectum [19 (52%)] and sensation of passing flatus [17 (48%)]. Eleven (47%) who had VRAM vs 25 who did not, reported having symptoms of PR at < 3 months after APE. Patients described their symptoms as ‘unchanged over time’ [20 (56%)], ‘gradually decreasing and ultimately disappearing’ [13 (35%)] or ‘worsening’ [3 (9%)]. Preoperative radiation and laparoscopic approach were not associated with PR symptoms. Significantly more patients having a VRAM flap reported early PR symptoms [7/11 (64%) vs 4/25 (16%)] (P = 0.008).

Conclusion

PR sensations were experienced by 23 (64%) patients who underwent APE for rectal cancer. VRAM reconstruction was associated with early PR presentation. The possibility of PR should be discussed preoperatively in patients undergoing APE for anorectal neoplasm.
Corporate Social Responsibility, Corporate Governance and Earnings Quality: Evidence from Korea
Authors: Choi Bo Bae , Lee Doowon , Park Youngkyu
Published: June 2013

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

How does corporate governance affect a manager's intention to promote corporate social responsibility (CSR)? Is the relationship between financial transparency and CSR activities affected by the business group affiliation and ownership structure of firms?

Research Findings/Insights

CSR ratings are negatively correlated with the level of earnings management when all firms are considered. However, the relationship is weaker for chaebol firms and firms with highly concentrated ownership, which suggests that CSR practices can be abusively used by those firms to conceal their poor earnings quality. The adverse use of CSR is discouraged if the fraction of shares owned by institutional investors is high. However, no evidence is found for a similar moderating effect for foreign investors.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

This study suggests that the business group affiliation and the ownership structure of a firm are important factors in determining the managerial incentives to engage in CSR, which can explain the mixed results reported in previous research. In addition, the possibility of a simultaneous relationship between CSR and other key firm characteristics, such as earnings quality, should be considered when conducting research on CSR.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This study provides the insight to investors and other stakeholders that the managerial incentives behind CSR activities can differ depending on a firm's characteristics. Care must be taken when assessing the CSR activities, in particular, of firms with weak corporate governance. For policy makers, it is important to ensure that CSR‐related disclosures by firms are based on actual plans and are not intended to deceive stakeholders, especially when the firms are not actively monitored by external shareholders.
The Swedish six‐community alcohol and drug prevention trial: Effects on youth drinking
Authors: Hallgren Mats , Andréasson Sven
Published: June 2013

Introduction and Aims

Local communities are increasingly targeted for alcohol and drug prevention campaigns. This study describes some of the key findings from the Swedish six‐community alcohol and drug prevention trial (2003–2007) and lessons learned following an evaluation of the trial's effectiveness. The paper focuses mainly on changes in youth drinking and related harms.

Design and Methods

This was a pre‐ to post‐intervention effect study comparing six trial communities that received added training and technical support with six control communities where regular prevention efforts were supported by national alcohol and drug action plans. A repeated, cross‐sectional survey of 8092 youths aged 15–19 years assessed changes in alcohol consumption, binge drinking, perceived alcohol availability, access to alcohol via parents and adult attitudes towards the supply of alcohol to youths. National registry data were used to assess changes in hospital admissions due to alcohol intoxication.

Results

Overall, there were few significant improvements in the six trial communities compared with the control communities.

Discussion and Conclusions

The absence of program effects was largely attributable to the selection of strategies (in particular, school and parental programs) lacking evidence of effectiveness in reducing alcohol consumption at the aggregate level. Prevention programs based on efficacy studies need to be tested in community‐based effectiveness trials before being disseminated. [Hallgren M & Andréasson S. The Swedish six‐community alcohol and drug prevention trial: Effects on youth drinking. Drug Alcohol Rev 2013;32:504–511]
Scalloping is a reliable endoscopic marker for celiac disease
Authors: Kasirer Yair , Turner Dan , Lerman Leora , Schechter Abraham , Waxman Jacob , Dayan Bosmat , Bergwerk Ari , Rachman Yelena , Freier Zerem , Silbermintz Ari
Published: June 2013

Background

Scalloping of duodenal folds noted on esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) has been associated with various illnesses including celiac disease (CD). The aim of the present study was to examine the frequency of scalloping in pediatric patients undergoing EGD and to assess its significance in the diagnosis of CD. We also evaluated the association of scalloping with the histopathology and celiac serology in the subgroup of celiac patients.

Patients and Methods

All children (0–18 years) who underwent EGD at Shaare Zedek Medical Center for any reason during a 2.5‐year period were retrospectively included, yielding a consecutive cohort without selection bias. Relevant data were obtained from the patient files.

Results

During the study period, 623 children underwent EGD of whom 149 (24%) were eventually diagnosed with CD. In 74/623children (12%), scalloping was seen and had a sensitivity of 48% (95% CI 0.40–0.57), specificity of 99% (0.98–0.99) and positive predictive value of 97% (0.9–0.99) to diagnose CD. The prevalence of scalloping increased with advancing stage of the Marsh classification from 33% (7/21) in Marsh 1 to 63% (34/54) in Marsh 3c (P < 0.001). Scalloping was associated with a significantly higher median tissue transglutaminase level (153 [IQR 98–168] versus 49 [IQR 11–143]; P = 0.011).

Conclusion

The results suggest that the diagnosis of CD is almost certain if isolated scalloping is observed during EGD done to rule out CD. Thus, attention to this finding may serve as an additional tool in the diagnosis of CD.
Intramural Atrial Hematoma: A Rare Complication of a Common Procedure
Authors: Galiuto Leonarda , Fedele Elisa , Locorotondo Gabriella , Pisanello Chiara , Favoccia Carla , Danza Maria Ludovica , De Vito Elena , Rebuzzi Antonio Giuseppe , Massetti Massimo , Crea Filippo
Published: June 2013

Mini‐Abstract

Intramural hematoma is a rare complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and it is mostly related to a poor prognosis. Moreover, although the best clinical treatment is unclear, the choice of appropriate imaging techniques can be helpful to manage these patients. We describe a case of a 79‐year‐old woman with an intramural atrial hematoma, likely caused by dissection of a distal coronary artery side branch during PCI. Imaging features at standard echocardiography did not provide enough information about consistency, blood supply, and relationship of the mass with the nearest structures. Only by performing myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE), we obtained a clear characterization of extent and blood supply status of the hematoma over time. Indeed, MCE is a simple, rapid, cheap, bedside, and safe imaging tool able to not invasively perform a better visualization of endocardial borders and evaluate the distribution of the intravascular ultrasound contrast agent within myocardial wall. Moreover, thanks to the absence of radiation risk and the extremely good patient tolerance, MCE represents a repeatable imaging tool useful to assess evolution of hematoma over time.
Dietary selection and nutritional regulation in a common mixed‐feeding insect herbivore
Authors: Jonas Jayne L. , Joern Anthony
Published: June 2013

The geometric framework provides a way for understanding the multi‐dimensional nutritional relationships between consumers and their food. We use this approach to further our understanding of the feeding and nutritional ecology of a ubiquitous mixed‐feeding insect herbivore that consumes a variety of host plants spanning a wide range of nutritional composition. Our overall objective was to examine feeding decisions, resulting performance, and post‐ingestive consequences in a common mixed‐feeding insect herbivore, Melanoplus bivittatus (Say) (Orthoptera: Acrididae), when presented with paired diets differing in protein:carbohydrate (p:c) ratio. Intake p:c of M. bivittatus differed among all but two treatments and in many cases was farther than expected from the previously identified p:c intake target for this species. Despite this variability in intake of protein and carbohydrate, we found few effects of the diet treatments on performance or post‐ingestive processing. However, our results suggest that when feeding on high‐quality diets, nutrients consumed in excess may be stored rather than excreted.
Extracting grey relational systems from incomplete road traffic accidents data: the case of Gauteng Province in South Africa
Authors: Twala Bhekisipho
Published: June 2013

Motivation

Road traffic accidents are among the top leading causes of deaths and injuries of various levels in South Africa. With the wealth and huge amount of data generated from road traffic accidents, the issue of traffic accident prediction has become a central challenge in the field of transportation data analysis. Such accident prediction is designed to detect patterns involved in dangerous crashes and thus help decision making and planning before casualty and loss occur. Recently, numerous researchers have presented a wide range of prediction techniques. Most of these methods are based on statistical studies but usually fail to explain the insights of prediction results. This has led to the development and application of supervised learning algorithms (classifiers) in an attempt to provide more accurate accident prediction in terms of injury severity (fatal/serious/slight/property damage with no injury). Even then, the task of learning an accurate classifier from instances raises a number of new issues some of which have not been properly addressed by transportation research. Thus, an effective prediction method is required for improving predictive accuracy.

Results

The essence of the paper is the proposal that prediction of accidents given poor data quality (in terms of incomplete data) can be improved by using a classifier based on grey relational analysis, a similarity‐based method. We evaluate the grey relational classifier with other state‐of‐the‐art classifiers including artificial neural networks, classification and regression trees, k‐nearest neighbour, linear discriminant analysis, naïve Bayes classifier, algorithm quasi‐optimal and support vector machines. Real‐world road traffic accident dataset is utilized for this task. Experimental results are provided to illustrate the efficiency and the robustness of the grey relational classifier algorithm in terms of road traffic accident predictive accuracy.
Dial M(RF) for myogenesis
Authors: Moncaut Natalia , Rigby Peter W. J. , Carvajal Jaime J.
Published: June 2013

The transcriptional regulatory network that controls the determination and differentiation of skeletal muscle cells in the embryo has at its core the four myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) Myf5, MyoD, Mrf4 and MyoG. These basic helix–loop–helix transcription factors act by binding, as obligate heterodimers with the ubiquitously expressed E proteins, to the E‐box sequence CANNTG. While all skeletal muscle cells have the same underlying function their progenitors arise at many sites in the embryo and it has become apparent that the upstream activators of the cascade differ in these various populations so that it can be switched on by a variety of inductive signals, some of which act by initiating transcription, some by maintaining it. The application of genome‐wide approaches has provided important new information as to how the MRFs function to activate the terminal differentiation programme and some of these data provide significant mechanistic insights into questions which have exercised the field for many years. We also consider the emerging roles played by micro‐RNAs in the regulation of both upstream activators and terminal differentiation genes.
Phosphoproteomics‐based network medicine
Authors: Liu Zexian , Wang Yongbo , Xue Yu
Published: June 2013

One of the major tasks of phosphoproteomics is providing potential biomarkers for either diagnosis or drug targets in medical applications. Because most complex diseases are due to the actions of multiple genes/proteins, the identification of complex phospho‐signatures containing multiple phosphorylation events within phosphoproteomics‐based networks generates more efficient and robust biomarkers than a single, differentially phosphorylated substrate or site. Here, we briefly summarize the current efforts and progress in this newly emerging field of phosphoproteomics‐based network medicine by reviewing the computational (re)construction of phosphorylation‐mediated signaling networks from unannotated phosphoproteomic data, the discovery of robust network phospho‐signatures and the application of these signatures for classifying cancers and predicting drug responses. The challenges as well as the potential advantages are evaluated and discussed. Although the current techniques are at present far from mature, we believe that such a systematic approach as we describe can generate more useful and robust biomarkers for biomedical usage, even at the current stage of development.
Gadd45g regulates dental epithelial cell proliferation through p38 MAPK‐mediated p21 expression
Authors: Ishida Kentaro , Yuge Yohei , Hanaoka Mai , Yasukawa Masato , Minami Yoko , Ogawa Miho , Masumoto Ko‐hei , Shigeyoshi Yasufumi , Saito Masahiro , Tsuji Takashi
Published: June 2013

Ectodermal organs, such as teeth, hair follicles, and mammary glands, arise from their respective germs through epithelial–mesenchymal interactions during organogenesis. Growth arrest and DNA damage‐inducible gene gamma (Gadd45g) have been shown to play important roles in various biological processes, such as stress responses, cell differentiation, and tumor suppression, through the regulation of cell proliferation and gene expression. We found that Gadd45g was expressed in enamel knots, which orchestrate tooth germ development as epithelial signaling centers. Gadd45g induced the expression of p21 and inhibited the proliferation of dental epithelial cells. The up‐regulation of p21 expression was regulated by Gadd45g‐mediated activation of the p38 MAPK pathway. Thus, our results suggest that Gadd45g is involved in the regulation of p21‐mediated epithelial cell proliferation through the p38 MAPK pathway during tooth organ development.
Laypersons' views of material incentives for enhancing colorectal cancer screening
Authors: Hagoel Lea , Rennert Gad , Feder‐Bubis Paula
Published: June 2013

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) early detection improves health outcomes; screening programmes invest efforts in initiating invitations to target populations to be tested. Enhanced adherence is essential for reduction of morbidity and mortality. Participation rates in Israel are still relatively low.

Objective

To explore lay views regarding the concept of receiving material incentives in exchange for enhanced adherence to CRC screening.

Research design

Qualitative study. Between November 2009 and February 2010 six focus group discussions were carried out in two urban, middle and low socio‐economic status primary care clinics in a Northern city in Israel. Participants were eligible individuals for CRC screening, aged 50–68 (N = 24). Data analysis followed the principles of grounded theory, supported by qualitative software.

Results

Participants found administering incentives in exchange for CRC screening inappropriate on rational and moral grounds. They valued their relations with the medical team and the health system more than the potential gain expected. Individuals eligible for CRC screening perceived themselves as responsible for their health, admitting difficulties in realizing this responsibility. Incentives were reported unsuitable for solving reported screening difficulties and a potential harm to the doctor–patient relationship.

Conclusions

Focus group participants expressed an unconventional voice towards the use of material incentives. They pointed to the need for focused support of health behaviour change and valued their autonomy. While a proportion of the invitees in the target population see the importance of screening and appreciate the HMO's initiative to invite them for testing, they also expressed their need for support from the HMO in realizing the recommended health behaviour.
The Late Medieval Countryside: England's Rural Economy and Society, 1275–1500
Authors: Routt David
Published: June 2013

Late medieval England's rural economy and society remain the focus of energetic and creative study by historians. Punctuated by demographic catastrophes such as the Great Famine and the Black Death, England's late Middle Ages serves as a virtual laboratory for analysis of historical change as scholars trace the unraveling of the manorial socioeconomic arrangements and the emergence of a brand of agrarian capitalism. To make sense of a wealth of royal and local sources, scholars employ a range of theoretical approaches drawn from economics, namely a population‐and‐resources model, a neo‐Marxist thesis, and a commercialization hypothesis, among others. Sociological approaches are also found in the late medievalist's analytical toolbox. Current research particularly focuses on the excavation of lord–peasant relations, the nature of the peasantry's agriculture, and the relative affluence and poverty of the late medieval peasant.
Confrontation and Unification: Approaches to the Political History of Normandy, 911–1035
Authors: Hagger Mark
Published: June 2013

There has been a lot of work on the political history of Normandy in recent years, and this is changing understanding of the duchy's origins and development. Some of this work has examined the actions, relationships and settlement of the Vikings in the years prior to the ‘treaty of Saint‐Clair‐sur‐Epte’ and the inception of Normandy (traditionally dated to 911). The conditions that allowed the Vikings under Rollo to embed themselves in local society have been explored, and it has become clear that the Northmen were well‐established in the region long before their settlement was officially recognized by Charles the Simple. The narrative sources which provide the foundation for any political history of Normandy, particularly Dudo of Saint‐Quentin'sHistoria NormannorumorDe moribus et actis primorum Normanniae ducum, have also been the focus of a great deal of work. Dudo's intentions have been discussed at length, and while the provision of a historically accurate account was not among them, his work can now be used to suggest something of the ambitions of Duke Richard II and the concerns of those Franks who came into contact with him and his warriors. Until the 1970s, historians thought that Normandy was created swiftly and that it was unified from the outset. Now, a much more nuanced view is forming, which sees the establishment of Normandy as a slow process of confrontation and unification. Chance gave the dukes dominion over the Bretons and allowed them to take and hold the Avranchin. Elsewhere, the going was harder. Confrontation with the lords of Bellême and counts of Chartres led to stalemate. Within the frontiers thus established, the dukes had to fight to make their authority a reality and to weld Normandy into the unified family observed by Ralph Glaber in the later 1030s – although what Glaber did not know was that the duchy had still not taken its final form by that date.
The New Zealand Home Front during World War One and World War Two
Authors: Parsons Gwen
Published: June 2013

During both the First World War and the Second World War, New Zealand despatched large Expeditionary Forces to assist in Britain's war effort. The home front experience was markedly different during each war. The defining characteristics of the home front during the Great War were the voluntary nature of patriotic participation and the remoteness of the war. In contrast, during the Second World War, the front was much closer to New Zealand, and the pressures of this much larger‐scale conflict meant that the government was forced to exert much more control over the civilian community. The historiography of the New Zealand home front reflects these characteristics. The historiography of the Great War home front, where day‐to‐day life continued with a large degree of continuity, is very limited. In contrast, much attention has been paid to life on the home front during the Second World War, as the civilian population was directed into war work as well as military service.
Consumer morality and moral norms
Authors: Nielsen Lisbeth , McGregor Sue L.T.
Published: June 2013

With a focus on consumer morality, this paper first reviewed the literature on moral norms, identifying six approaches: (a) descriptive/injunctive; (b) personal; (c) altruistic; (d) material, formal and synthetic; (e) autonomy, beneficence and justice; and (f) universal norms. The paper then explored three moral norm‐related concepts – what constitutes a moral situation, morally irresponsible behaviour and morally risky behaviour – with a focus on the insights that they can shed on consumer morality, in concert with the notion of moral norms. The discussion then turned to an overview of how these moral norm concepts have been (can be) applied to understand the moral dimension of consumer behaviour. An iterative analysis of this discussion revealed 10 insights that serve as the genesis for an emergent conceptual framework that can scaffold discussions of the role moral norms play in explaining consumer moral behaviour. The paper concluded with a call for a theory on consumer morality and moral norms.
Gluten‐free bread: multiple time–intensity analysis, physical characterisation and acceptance test
Authors: de Morais Elisa Carvalho , Cruz Adriano Gomez , Bolini Helena Maria Andre
Published: June 2013

The formulation of gluten‐free breads is challenging, once the gluten network is responsible for the physical and sensory properties of bread. This study presents a novel concept for making gluten‐free breads using sugar substitutes. The quality of gluten‐free breads was analysed by means of physical (specific volume and colour), textural (firmness, elasticity and chewiness) and sensory properties (time‐intensity analysis and acceptance test). Time‐intensity analysis showed that the sample developed with raw sugar had a higher intensity of sweetness, and the sample with stevia had a higher intensity of yeast flavour. The sample with frutooligosaccharides (FOS) presented a higher acceptance by consumers. Sample with stevia presented the higher intensity of yeast flavour (8.10) and the lesser mean of specific volume (2.83 cm3.g−1); whereas sample with sugar who presented higher intensity of sweetness stimulus (5.20) also presented the higher mean of specific volume (3.80 cm3.g−1). The addition of prebiotic and sweetener opens up new opportunities to develop gluten‐free breads that may present similar properties to those of wheat‐based breads.
Relationship between glycaemia and length of hospital stay during an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Burt M. G. , Roberts G. W. , Aguilar‐Loza N. R. , Quinn S. J. , Frith P. A , Stranks S. N.
Published: June 2013

We have assessed whether glucose concentration and patient outcome are related in hospitalised patients when glycaemia is quantified in detail. Continuous glucose monitoring was performed on 47 consecutive subjects with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Length of hospital stay increased by 10% for each mmol/L increase in mean glucose (P = 0.01). In a multivariable analysis, mean glucose was independently associated with length of hospital stay (P = 0.02). These data add weight to evidence that hyperglycaemia may adversely affect patient outcomes in hospitalised patients.
Driving, dementia and Australian physicians: primum non nocere?
Authors: Carmody J. , Traynor V. , Iverson D. , Marchetti E.
Published: June 2013

Older Australians are increasingly reliant on automobiles as their sole form of transport. As our population is ageing and the prevalence of dementia is increasing, it is anticipated that the number of drivers with dementia will rise over time. Much of the literature relating to driving and dementia focuses on safety rather than mobility. The objective of this paper is to highlight several topical ethical issues that pertain to Australian drivers with dementia. It is recommended that future research, policy and practice should centre on the crucial mobility and transport needs of our senior citizens.
Expanding spectrum of TNFRSF1A gene mutations among patients with idiopathic recurrent acute pericarditis
Authors: Cantarini L. , Lucherini O. M. , Vitale A. , Sabadini L. , Brizi M. G. , Frediani B. , Muscari I. , Galeazzi M.
Published: June 2013

Although idiopathic recurrent acute pericarditis (IRAP) is generally presumed to derive from an autoimmune process, increasing interest is currently being devoted to autoinflammatory diseases, a group of disorders of the innate immune system caused by mutations of genes involved in the regulation or activation of the inflammatory response, without any apparent involvement of autoimmunity. The tumour necrosis factor receptor‐1‐associated periodic syndrome is the most common autosomal dominant autoinflammatory disorder and is caused by mutations in the TNFRSF1A gene encoding the 55‐kD receptor for tumour necrosis factor‐α. IRAP patients carrying TNFRSF1A gene mutations have been recently described. We report herein the first IRAP patients carrying the rare R104Q and D12E TNFRSF1A gene mutations, thus expanding the spectrum of tumour necrosis factor receptor‐1‐associated periodic syndrome mutations in IRAP patients.
The peculiar nemertean larva pilidium recurvatum belongs to Riserius sp., a basal heteronemertean that eats Carcinonemertes errans, a hoplonemertean parasite of Dungeness crab
Authors: Hiebert Terra C. , von Dassow George , Hiebert Laurel S. , Maslakova Svetlana
Published: June 2013

A typical nemertean pilidium larva resembles a hat with ear flaps. But one type, called pilidium recurvatum, looks more like a sock, swimming heel first. This distinctive larva was discovered in 1883 off the coast of Rhode Island and subsequently found in plankton samples from other parts of the world. Despite the long time since discovery, and its significance in discussions of larval evolution, this larva remained unidentified even to the family level. We collected pilidium recurvatum larvae from plankton samples in Coos Bay, OR, and identified them as belonging to the heteronemertean genus Riserius based on juvenile morphology and DNA sequence data. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that two distinct types of pilidium recurvatum from Oregon represent two new species within this currently monotypic genus. We describe the morphology of pilidium recurvatum using confocal microscopy and compare it to that of the typical pilidium, discussing possible implications for larval feeding. We also report our surprising discovery that juveniles of Riserius sp. from Oregon prey on another nemertean, Carcinonemertes errans, an egg predator of Cancer magister (Dungeness crab), a commercially important species. We speculate that the species‐level diversity and geographic distribution of Riserius may be much greater than currently appreciated.
The Solubility Limit of CaO in α‐Alumina at 1600°C
Authors: Akiva Ran , Berner Alex , Kaplan Wayne D.
Published: June 2013

The solubility limit of Ca in 99.99% pure α‐Al2O3 (alumina) was measured using a wavelength dispersive spectrometer mounted on a scanning electron microscope. Al2O3 samples were equilibrated at a concentration which ensured saturation of the Al2O3 grains with Ca, and were quenched in water from 1600°C. The results were compared with those from samples which were furnace cooled from 1600°C. For the quenched samples, the Ca solubility limit was found to be 51 ± 1 ppm, which is significantly larger than the solubility limit for samples which were furnace cooled (26 ± 1 ppm).
Commentary: To intervene or not? Appreciating or treating individual differences in childhood temperament – remarks on Rapee (2013)
Authors: Fox Nathan A. , Barker Tyson V. , White Lauren K. , G. Suway Jenna , Pine Daniel S.
Published: June 2013

In the current issue of this journal, Rapee (2013) reports that the incidence of internalizing disorders was reduced as a result of a brief parent centered intervention amongst adolescents who as young children were characterized with the temperament of behavioral inhibition (BI). The intervention was administered when children were 3 to 5 years of age and consisted of a short parent training program (i.e., six 90‐min group sessions). Now, some 10 years later, those adolescents whose parents participated in the intervention were less likely to develop both anxiety and depressive disorders.
Prevalence and characteristics of children with mild intellectual disability in aFrench county
Authors: David M. , Dieterich K. , Billette de Villemeur A. , Jouk P.‐S. , Counillon J. , Larroque B. , Bloch J. , Cans C.
Published: June 2013

Background

Studies conducted on mild intellectual disability (MID) in children are infrequent and the prevalence rates vary widely. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence ofMIDin children in aFrench county (Isère), to describe the clinical signs and associated comorbidities, and to specify the aetiologies of this disability.

Methods

The target population was comprised of the 15 100 children born in 1997 residing inIsèreCounty,France, in 2008. Our goal was to find the children in this group withMIDdiagnosed between 9 and 13 years of age.MIDwas defined as an overallIQscore of between 50 and 69 [InternationalStatisticalClassification ofDiseases andRelatedHealthProblems 10thRevision (ICD‐10)]; this definition was adjusted for the study by integrating confidence intervals so that the risk ofIQmeasurement relativity and possible discrepancy of scores could be taken into account. Children were identified through an administrative data source designed to assist disabled persons that contains health information, and an educational data source. Parents who agreed to let their children participate responded to an in‐depth questionnaire on their child's medical and academic history. A genetic investigation was proposed for those children whoseMIDhad an unknown aetiology.

Results

The preliminary selection included 267 children, resulting in a prevalence rate of 18 per 1000 (CI[15.6; 19.9]), within the expected mean. Of these 267 cases, 181 families agreed to participate in the study (68%).MIDmore often affected boys [male gender ratio = 1.4 (CI[1.2; 1.6])], low socioeconomic groups, and families with a history of intellectual disability. The clinical signs and comorbidities associated withMIDwere very frequent, with 54% spoken language disorders and 10% pervasive developmental disorder. Only 9% of the children had undergone a genetic investigation before the study. The known aetiology rate forMIDwas 19% among all the children who had had genetic tests performed.

Conclusion

MIDis an important public health issue based on its prevalence. The associated clinical signs and comorbidities may be warning signs ofMIDin case of learning difficulties. This study may help decision‐makers to develop and organise screening and care forMID.
The required beta cell research for improving treatment of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Thorens B.
Published: June 2013

In healthy individuals, insulin resistance is associated with physiological conditions such as pregnancy or body weight gain and triggers an increase in beta cell number and insulin secretion capacity to preserve normoglycaemia. Failure of this beta cell compensation capacity is a fundamental cause of diabetic hyperglycaemia. Incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms controlling the plasticity of adult beta cells mechanisms and how these cells fail during the pathogenesis of diabetes strongly limits the ability to develop new beta cell‐specific therapies. Here, current knowledge of the signalling pathways controlling beta cell plasticity is reviewed, and possible directions for future research are discussed.