bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Evaluation of the Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer in Multiple Sclerosis with Special-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Feng Liguo , Shen Jie , Jin Xiaohong , Li Jiuke , Li Yumin
Published: September 2013

Background/Aims: Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thinning has been observed on histopathology and time-domain optical coherence tomography in many diseases of the central nervous system. In this study, with a higher resolution of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT), we detected RNFL changes in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in China, and compared RNFL thickness between eyes with and without optic neuritis (ON). Methods: In this retrospective, nonrandom case study, the patients were recruited from the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University. RNFL thickness was measured for each eye using SDOCT. The controls were recruited from the healthy population. Results: Peripapillary RNFL thickness of 24 eyes in 12 patients was detected by SDOCT. The average RNFL thickness of the MS patients was 81.9 ± 17.8 µm compared to the control value of 102.1 ± 8.1 µm (p = 0.00). The average RNFL of the patients with a history of ON was thinner than that of patients without ON (71.8 ± 19.2 µm vs. 92.0 ± 8.5 µm, p = 0.001). Conclusion: The RNFL thinning in Chinese patients with MS can be detected by SDOCT. The SDOCT scan represents a high-resolution, objective, noninvasive and easily quantifiable in vivo biomarker of MS.
Rectal Carcinoma in a Young Female Patient with Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Tsai Hsiang-Lin , Lin Chih-Hung , Cheng Ya-Lin , Huang Ching-Wen , Wang Jaw-Yuan
Published: September 2013

Objective: To report a case of rectal cancer in a patient with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS). Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 20-year-old woman with intermittent bloody stool of 4 months was admitted for examination. Gastroendoscopy revealed multiple polyps involving the stomach, small intestine, colon and a rectal adenocarcinoma. A diagnosis of PJS was made based on intestinal polyps with characteristic pathology and melanotic macules on the lips. After surgery and chemotherapy upon follow-up at 8 months, the patient did not have any signs of recurrence. Conclusion: This case showed that rectal carcinoma should be considered for young patients with PJS.
CO2 Laser Welding of Corneal Cuts with Albumin Solder Using Radiometric Temperature Control
Authors: Strassmann Eyal , Livny Eitan , Loya Nino , Kariv Noam , Ravid Avi , Katzir Abraham , Gaton Dan D.
Published: September 2013

Purpose: To examine the efficacy and reproducibility of CO2 laser soldering of corneal cuts using real-time infrared fiber-optic radiometric control of tissue temperature in bovine eyes (in vitro) and to evaluate the duration of this procedure in rabbit eyes (in vivo). Methods: In vitro experiment: a 6-mm central perforating cut was induced in 40 fresh bovine eyes and sealed with a CO2 laser, with or without albumin soldering, following placement of a single approximating nylon suture. A fiber-optic radiometric temperature control system for the CO2 laser was used. Leaking pressure and histological findings were analyzed and compared between groups. In vivo experiment: following creation of a central perforation, 6 rabbit eyes were treated with a CO2 laser with albumin solder and 6 rabbit eyes were treated with 10-0 nylon sutures. The amount of time needed for completion of the procedures was compared. Results: In vitro experiment: effective sealing was achieved by CO2 laser soldering. Mean (± SD) leaking pressure was 109 ± 30 mm Hg in the bovine corneas treated by the laser with albumin solder compared to 51 ± 7 mm Hg in the sutured control eyes (n = 10 each; p < 0.001). Mean leaking pressures were much lower in the corneal cuts sealed only with the laser without albumin solder (48 ± 12 mm Hg) and in the cuts sealed only with albumin without laser welding (6.3 ± 4 mm Hg) than in the cuts treated with laser welding and albumin solder. In vivo experiment: mean surgical time was 140 ± 17 s in the laser-treated rabbits compared to 330 ± 30 s in the sutured controls (n = 6; p < 0.001). A histopathological study of the rabbit corneas 1 day after laser soldering revealed sealed corneal edges with a small gap bridged by coagulated albumin. The inflammatory reaction was minimal in contrast to the sutured controls. No thermal damage was detected at the wound edges. Conclusions: CO2 laser soldering combined with the fiber-optic radiometer is an effective, reliable, and rapid tool for the closure of corneal wounds, and holds advantages over conventional suturing in terms of leaking pressure and surgical time.
Severe Disability in Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Is Associated with Profound Changes in the Regulation of Leptin Secretion
Authors: Rotondi Mario , Batocchi Anna Paola , Coperchini Francesca , Caggiula Marcella , Zerbini Francesca , Sideri Riccardo , Leporati Paola , Nociti Viviana , Frisullo Giovanni , Mirabella Massimiliano , Magri Flavia , Oliviero Antonio , Chiovato Luca
Published: September 2013

Objectives: Experimental evidences indicate that leptin is involved in the neuroinflammatory process sustaining multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the relationship between leptin and body fat, as assessed by body mass index (BMI), in MS was not previously evaluated. It was the aim of this study to compare serum leptin levels between patients with MS and healthy controls and to evaluate the possible relationship between circulating leptin levels and disease severity. Patients and Methods: Eighty-four MS patients and 57 sex-matched healthy volunteers were enrolled. Serum leptin levels were measured in all patients and controls. MS patients were stratified in 3 groups according to their degree of disability as assessed by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Patients were classified as having low (33 patients with an EDSS score <1.5), intermediate (28 patients with an EDSS score from 2 to 3) and high disability (23 patients with an EDSS score ≥3.5). Results: No significant differences in serum leptin levels and BMI were observed between patients and controls. In patients with MS, serum leptin levels were significantly correlated with BMI in those patients with low (R2 = 0.363; p < 0.001) and intermediate disability (R2 = 0.408; p < 0.001), but not in patients with a higher disability score (R2 = 0.064; p = 0.256). Conclusion: BMI, the major determinant of leptin level in physiological conditions, has a minor role in determining the serum levels of leptin in MS patients with a high EDSS score. Future longitudinal studies will be required in order to provide further insights into the regulation of leptin secretion in patients with MS.
Inserting ex vivo Fluorescence Confocal Microscopy Perioperatively in Mohs Micrographic Surgery Expedites Bedside Assessment of Excision Margins in Recurrent Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Longo Caterina , Ragazzi Moira , Castagnetti Fabio , Gardini Stefano , Palmieri Tamara , Lallas Aimilios , Moscarella Elvira , Piana Simonetta , Pellacani Giovanni , Zalaudek Iris , Argenziano Giuseppe
Published: September 2013

Mohs micrographic surgery can be employed in recurrent basal cell carcinoma, although it is a time-consuming technique. Recently, ex vivo fluorescence confocal microscopy (FCM) has been employed to obtain a fast assessment of tumor margins at the bedside. In our case we successfully employed ex vivo FCM to assess the tumor margins and we treated the persistent tumor with intensity-modulated radiation therapy. Our case demonstrates that a multidisciplinary approach is very efficient in managing complex and recurrent tumors and highlights the benefits of FCM as a new technique that can be used in the surgical theater to speed up the entire procedure.
Micronutrient Status of Children Receiving Prolonged Enteral Nutrition
Authors: Gottrand M. , Muyshont L. , Couttenier F. , Beghin L. , Martigne L. , Coopman S. , Turck D. , Michaud L. , Guimber D. , Gottrand F.
Published: September 2013

Background and Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the micronutrient status of children receiving prolonged enteral nutrition. Methods: This cross-sectional single-center study included all 64 children (median age 6.8 years) receiving enteral nutrition providing >50% of daily energy intake for more than 6 months (median duration of enteral nutrition 43 months). The characteristics of the patients and mode of enteral nutrition were recorded. The concentrations of iron, zinc, copper, selenium and vitamins A, D, E and C were measured in plasma. Results: Twelve children (19%) had iron deficiency. A high 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration was recorded in 20% of the children, but none had associated hypercalcemia. Fifty-two children (81%) had low zinc concentrations in both plasma and erythrocytes. Plasma zinc, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D concentrations were significantly lower in children receiving fiber supplementation. Abnormal micronutrient concentrations were found more frequently in the children receiving fiber supplementation. No other predisposing factors were associated with micronutrient deficiencies. Conclusion: Long-term enteral nutrition can lead to micronutrient deficiencies in children, whose micronutrient concentrations may require regular checking. Fiber supplementation might reduce the bioavailability of zinc, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D.
Decreased Expression of a Novel Prostaglandin Transporter, OAT-PG, Facilitates Renocortical PGE2 Accumulation during Rat Pregnancy
Authors: Kazama Itsuro , Matsubara Mitsunobu , Kanai Yoshikatsu , Hatano Ryo , Asano Shinji , Endo Yasuhiro , Toyama Hiroaki , Ejima Yutaka , Kurosawa Shin , Maruyama Yoshio
Published: September 2013

Background: Prostaglandin (PG)-specific organic anion transporter (OAT-PG) is a recently identified renal transporter involved in the local clearance of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Since the renal biosynthesis of PGE2 is not increased during pregnancy, this transporter expression would affect the gestational changes in the renal PGE2 content. Methods: Kidneys from rats at different gestational stages were used to examine gestational changes in the renocortical PGE2 concentration. The renal expression of OAT-PG and the enzymes for PGE2 synthesis was also examined sequentially, together with the gestational changes in renal renin production. Results: The renocortical PGE2 concentration was significantly increased during midterm to late pregnancy, with a maximum increase of 47.6 ± 11.5% from the virgin value. Although the expression of the enzymes, such as cyclooxygenases and PG synthases, was not increased, that of OAT-PG was significantly decreased throughout pregnancy, inversely correlating with changes in the renocortical PGE2 concentration. Renal renin production was significantly increased during pregnancy. Conclusion: This study demonstrated for the first time that the tissue PGE2 concentration was increased in pregnant rat kidneys, which may be associated with the gestational rise in glomerular filtration rate. The decreased expression of OAT-PG was thought to be responsible for the increased tissue PGE2 content.
Effect of Prolonged Weekly Hemodialysis on Survival of Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Studies
Authors: Jin Hui Min , Guo Li Li , Zhan Xiao Li , Pan Yu
Published: September 2013

Objective: Use of prolonged nocturnal or daytime hemodialysis (PHD, more than 12 h per week) is associated with improvement of some clinical parameters relative to conventional hemodialysis (CHD, 4 h sessions, thrice weekly), but the effect on survival is unclear. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to determine whether PHD improves survival of patients undergoing maintenance HD. Design: Systematic review of observational studies by meta-analysis. Data Sources: Electronic searches in MEDLINE (PubMed, 1966-2012), EMBASE (1974-2012), www.clinicaltrials.gov, and the Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials Register Database. Eligibility Criteria for Selecting Studies: All prospective or retrospective studies were considered eligible if they were cohort studies or observational studies that compared CHD with PHD (more than 12 h of HD per week due to more HD sessions or increased duration of HD sessions) and the final outcome was all-cause death or mortality. Results: Thirteen studies with a total of 85,722 participants (10,285 PHD patients, 75,437 CHD patients) met the inclusion criteria. Summary estimates indicated that PHD was associated with decreased risk of mortality (OR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.64-0.81, p < 0.00001). Analysis of residual confounders of pooled results from six retrospective studies indicated that PHD patients were less likely to have low hemoglobin (11.7 vs. 11.2 g/dl, p < 0.01), younger (51.2 vs. 58.8 years, p < 0.01), less likely to have diabetes (27.1 vs. 40.8%, p < 0.01), and less likely to use a catheter (18.4 vs. 27.1%, p < 0.01), so these may have affected the outcome measure in these studies. Conclusions: PHD is associated with improved survival relative to CHD, although residual confounders have affected this relationship in observational studies. Large, multicenter randomized, controlled trials are needed to confirm our results.
Effects of Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibition on Postural Tachycardia Syndrome
Authors: Green Elizabeth A. , Raj Vidya , Shibao Cyndya A. , Biaggioni Italo , Black Bonnie K. , Dupont William D. , Robertson David , Raj Satish R.
Published: September 2013

Background

Postural tachycardia syndrome (
POTS
) is a disorder of chronic orthostatic intolerance accompanied by excessive orthostatic tachycardia. Patients with
POTS
commonly have comorbid conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, or fibromyalgia that are treated with medications that inhibit the norepinephrine reuptake transporter (
NRI
).
NRI
medications can increase sympathetic nervous system tone, which may increase heart rate (
HR
) and worsen symptoms in
POTS
patients. We sought to determine whether
NRI
with atomoxetine increases standing tachycardia or worsens the symptom burden in
POTS
patients.

Methods and Results

Patients with
POTS
(n=27) underwent an acute drug trial of atomoxetine 40 mg and placebo on separate mornings in a randomized, crossover design. Blood pressure (
BP
),
HR
, and symptoms were assessed while seated and after standing prior to and hourly for 4 hours following study drug administration. Atomoxetine significantly increased standing
HR
compared with placebo (121±17 beats per minute versus 105±15 beats per minute;
P
=0.001) in
POTS
patients, with a trend toward higher standing systolic
BP
(
P
=0.072). Symptom scores worsened with atomoxetine compared to placebo (+4.2 au versus −3.5 au;
P
=0.028) from baseline to 2 hours after study drug administration.

Conclusion

Norepinephrine reuptake inhibition with atomoxetine acutely increased standing
HR
and symptom burden in patients with
POTS
.

Clinical Trials Registration

URL
:
http://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
00262470.
Ventral and Dorsal Visual Stream Contributions to the Perception of Object Shape and Object Location
Authors: Zachariou Valentinos , Klatzky Roberta , Behrmann Marlene
Published: September 2013

Growing evidence suggests that the functional specialization of the two cortical visual pathways may not be as distinct as originally proposed. Here, we explore possible contributions of the dorsal “where/how” visual stream to shape perception and, conversely, contributions of the ventral “what” visual stream to location perception in human adults. Participants performed a shape detection task and a location detection task while undergoing fMRI. For shape detection, comparable BOLD activation in the ventral and dorsal visual streams was observed, and the magnitude of this activation was correlated with behavioral performance. For location detection, cortical activation was significantly stronger in the dorsal than ventral visual pathway and did not correlate with the behavioral outcome. This asymmetry in cortical profile across tasks is particularly noteworthy given that the visual input was identical and that the tasks were matched for difficulty in performance. We confirmed the asymmetry in a subsequent psychophysical experiment in which participants detected changes in either object location or shape, while ignoring the other, task-irrelevant dimension. Detection of a location change was slowed by an irrelevant shape change matched for difficulty, but the reverse did not hold. We conclude that both ventral and dorsal visual streams contribute to shape perception, but that location processing appears to be essentially a function of the dorsal visual pathway.
Online Learning of Single- and Multivalued Functions with an Infinite Mixture of Linear Experts
Authors: Damas Bruno , Santos-Victor José
Published: September 2013

We present a supervised learning algorithm for estimation of generic input-output relations in a real-time, online fashion. The proposed method is based on a generalized expectation-maximization approach to fit an infinite mixture of linear experts (IMLE) to an online stream of data samples. This probabilistic model, while not fully Bayesian, can efficiently choose the number of experts that are allocated to the mixture, this way effectively controlling the complexity of the resulting model. The result is an incremental, online, and localized learning algorithm that performs nonlinear, multivariate regression on multivariate outputs by approximating the target function by a linear relation within each expert input domain and that can allocate new experts as needed. A distinctive feature of the proposed method is the ability to learn multivalued functions: one-to-many mappings that naturally arise in some robotic and computer vision learning domains, using an approach based on a Bayesian generative model for the predictions provided by each of the mixture experts. As a consequence, it is able to directly provide forward and inverse relations from the same learned mixture model. We conduct an extensive set of experiments to evaluate the proposed algorithm performance, and the results show that it can outperform state-of-the-art online function approximation algorithms in single-valued regression, while demonstrating good estimation capabilities in a multivalued function approximation context.
Comparing Tropical Precipitation Simulated by the Met Office NWP and Climate Models with Satellite Observations
Authors: Liu Chunlei , Allan Richard P. , Brooks Malcolm , Milton Sean
Published: September 2013

Forecasts of precipitation and water vapor made by the Met Office global numerical weather prediction (NWP) model are evaluated using products from satellite observations by the Special Sensor Microwave Imager/Sounder (SSMIS) and Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) for June–September 2011, with a focus on tropical areas (30°S–30°N). Consistent with previous studies, the predicted diurnal cycle of precipitation peaks too early (by ~3 h) and the amplitude is too strong over both tropical ocean and land regions. Most of the wet and dry precipitation biases, particularly those over land, can be explained by the diurnal-cycle discrepancies. An overall wet bias over the equatorial Pacific and Indian Oceans and a dry bias over the western Pacific warm pool and India are linked with similar biases in the climate model, which shares common parameterizations with the NWP version. Whereas precipitation biases develop within hours in the NWP model, underestimates in water vapor (which are assimilated by the NWP model) evolve over the first few days of the forecast. The NWP simulations are able to capture observed daily-to-intraseasonal variability in water vapor and precipitation, including fluctuations associated with tropical cyclones.
Water Budget and Precipitation Efficiency of Typhoon Morakot (2009)
Authors: Huang Hsiao-Ling , Yang Ming-Jen , Sui Chung-Hsiung
Published: September 2013

In this study, the Weather Research and Forecasting model, version 3.2, with the finest grid size of 1 km is used to explicitly simulate Typhoon Morakot (2009), which dumped rainfall of more than 2600 mm in 3 days on Taiwan. The model reasonably reproduced the track, the organization, the sizes of the eye and eyewall, and the characteristics of major convective cells in outer rainbands. The horizontal rainfall distribution and local rainfall maximum in the southwestern portion of the Central Mountain Range (CMR) are captured. The simulated rain rate and precipitation efficiency (PE) over the CMR are highly correlated. In the absence of terrain forcing, the simulated TC’s track is farther north and rainfall distribution is mainly determined by rainbands. The calculated rain rate and PE over the CMR during landfall are about 50% and 15%–20% less than those of the full-terrain control run, respectively. By following major convective cells that propagate eastward from the Taiwan Strait to the CMR, it is found that the PE and the processes of vapor condensation and raindrop evaporation are strongly influenced by orographic lifting; the PEs are 60%–75% over ocean and more than 95% over the CMR, respectively. The secondary increase of PE results from the increase of ice-phase deposition ratio when the liquid-phase condensation becomes small as the air on the lee side subsides and moves downstream. This nearly perfect PE over the CMR causes tremendous rainfall in southwestern Taiwan, triggering enormous landslides and severe flooding.
Centennial-Scale Sea Surface Temperature Analysis and Its Uncertainty
Authors: Hirahara Shoji , Ishii Masayoshi , Fukuda Yoshikazu
Published: September 2013

A new sea surface temperature (SST) analysis on a centennial time scale is presented. In this analysis, a daily SST field is constructed as a sum of a trend, interannual variations, and daily changes, using in situ SST and sea ice concentration observations. All SST values are accompanied with theory-based analysis errors as a measure of reliability. An improved equation is introduced to represent the ice–SST relationship, which is used to produce SST data from observed sea ice concentrations. Prior to the analysis, biases of individual SST measurement types are estimated for a homogenized long-term time series of global mean SST. Because metadata necessary for the bias correction are unavailable for many historical observational reports, the biases are determined so as to ensure consistency among existing SST and nighttime air temperature observations. The global mean SSTs with bias-corrected observations are in agreement with those of a previously published study, which adopted a different approach. Satellite observations are newly introduced for the purpose of reconstruction of SST variability over data-sparse regions. Moreover, uncertainty in areal means of the present and previous SST analyses is investigated using the theoretical analysis errors and estimated sampling errors. The result confirms the advantages of the present analysis, and it is helpful in understanding the reliability of SST for a specific area and time period.
Pan-Continental Droughts in North America over the Last Millennium*
Authors: Cook Benjamin I. , Smerdon Jason E. , Seager Richard , Cook Edward R.
Published: September 2013

Regional droughts are common in North America, but pan-continental droughts extending across multiple regions, including the 2012 event, are rare relative to single-region events. Here, the tree-ring-derived North American Drought Atlas is used to investigate drought variability in four regions over the last millennium, focusing on pan-continental droughts. During the Medieval Climate Anomaly (MCA), the central plains (CP), Southwest (SW), and Southeast (SE) regions experienced drier conditions and increased occurrence of droughts and the Northwest (NW) experienced several extended pluvials. Enhanced MCA aridity in the SW and CP manifested as multidecadal megadroughts. Notably, megadroughts in these regions differed in their timing and persistence, suggesting that they represent regional events influenced by local dynamics rather than a unified, continental-scale phenomena. There is no trend in pan-continental drought occurrence, defined as synchronous droughts in three or more regions. SW, CP, and SE (SW+CP+SE) droughts are the most common, occurring in 12% of all years and peaking in prevalence during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries; patterns involving three other regions occur in about 8% of years. Positive values of the Southern Oscillation index (La Niña conditions) are linked to SW, CP, and SE (SW+CP+SE) droughts and SW, CP, and NW (SW+CP+NW) droughts, whereas CP, NW, and SE (CP+NW+SE) droughts are associated with positive values of the Pacific decadal oscillation and Atlantic multidecadal oscillation. While relatively rare, pan-continental droughts are present in the paleo record and are linked to defined modes of climate variability, implying the potential for seasonal predictability. Assuming stable drought teleconnections, these events will remain an important feature of future North American hydroclimate, possibly increasing in their severity in step with other expected hydroclimate responses to increased greenhouse gas forcing.
Implementation of a Gabor Transform Data Quality-Control Algorithm for UHF Wind Profiling Radars
Authors: Bianco Laura , Gottas Daniel , Wilczak James M.
Published: September 2013

In this paper a Gabor transform–based algorithm is applied to identify and eliminate intermittent signal contamination in UHF wind profiling radars, such as that produced by migrating birds. The algorithm is applied in the time domain, and so it can be used to improve the accuracy of UHF radar wind profiler data in real time—an essential requirement if these wind profiler data are to be assimilated into operational weather forecast models. The added value of using a moment-level Weber–Wuertz pattern recognition scheme that follows the Gabor transform processing is demonstrated.
Variability in parathyroid hormone assays confounds clinical practice in chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Eddington Helen , Hudson Julie E , Oliver Robert L , Fraser William D , Hutchison Alastair J , Kalra Philip A
Published: September 2013

Background

Intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) measurements are used to guide therapy in renal patients, but variability in results can occur depending on the assay used. This study has investigated iPTH assay variation in North West England and paired data with regional audit data to determine clinical relevance of assay variability.

Methods

Thirty-seven haemodialysis patients had blood taken (EDTA plasma, and serum), and samples were processed at 17 laboratories that analyse iPTH for North West dialysis patients. Correction factors were calculated and applied to the iPTH assay results to enable direct comparisons. These correction factors were also applied to Regional Audit data to determine if iPTH assay variability explains the variation in unit performance in achieving PTH targets.

Results

The iPTH results from the 37 patients were significantly different when either analysed by different assays and/or different laboratories ( P < 0.001). The Abbott Architect method consistently produced the highest iPTH results. Of the 37 patients, between 49% and 65% would achieve the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) iPTH target depending on the assay used. When results were adjusted using correction factors, 21% of the patients would require a change of management according to guidelines. Data from all haemodialysis units submitted for the regional audit were adjusted to the Roche assay and this led to a small change in achievement of KDIGO iPTH targets in individual units when compared to each other.

Conclusions

A combination of iPTH assay variability and diversity in clinical management leads to variation in achieving iPTH targets. Both need to be improved and/or standardized to improve patient care.
Acute changes to biomarkers as a consequence of prolonged strenuous running
Authors: Bird Stephen R , Linden Matthew , Hawley John A
Published: September 2013

Background

A single bout of strenuous running exercise results in perturbations to numerous biomarkers. An understanding of these is important when analysing samples from individuals who have recently performed such exercise.

Methods

A literature search was undertaken using the search terms, exercise, marathon and delayed onset of muscle soreness. The search was then refined using the terms for key biomarkers known to be altered by exercise.

Results

The magnitude of changes to biomarkers is proportional to the severity of the running bout. Familiar, moderate intensity running exercise produces brief transient changes in common biomarkers such as lactate, whereas more severe bouts of running exercise, such as marathons and ultra-marathon events can produce changes to biomarkers that are normally associated with pathology of the muscles, liver and heart. Examples being changes to concentrations and/or activity of myoglobin, leucocytes, creatine kinase, bilirubin, cardiac troponins, lactate dehydrogenase, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. While persisting for longer, these changes are also transient and full recovery occurs within days, without any apparent long-term adverse consequences. Additionally, unfamiliar exercise involving forceful eccentric muscle contractions, such as running downhill, can cause increases in creatine kinase and delayed onset of muscle soreness that peaks 36–72 h after the exercise bout.

Conclusions

Strenuous running exercise can produce changes to biomarkers that are normally associated with disease and injury, but these do not necessarily reflect chronic pathology.
Enhanced 3-epi-25-hydroxyvitamin D3 signal leads to overestimation of its concentration and amplifies interference in 25-hydroxyvitamin D LC-MS/MS assays
Authors: Flynn N , Lam F , Dawnay A
Published: September 2013

Background

3-epi-25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (3-epi-25OHD3) interferes in most liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assays for 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD). The clinical significance of this is unclear, with concentrations from undetectable to 230 nmol/L reported. Many studies have quantified 3-epi-25OHD3 based on 25OHD3 calibrators or other indirect methods, and we speculated that this contributes to the observed variability in reported 3-epi-25OHD3 concentrations.

Methods

We compared continuous MS/MS infusions of 3-epi-25OHD3 and 25OHD3 solutions, spiked both analytes into the same serum matrix and analysed patient samples to assess the effect of three different quantitation methods on 3-epi-25OHD3 concentration. Experiments were performed on an LC-MS/MS system using a phenyl column which does not resolve 3-epi-25OHD3, and a modified method utilizing a Zorbax SB-CN column that chromatographically resolves 3-epi-25OHD3 from 25OHD3.

Results

A greater 3-epi-25OHD3 signal, compared with 25OHD3, was observed during equimolar post-column continuous infusion of analyte solutions, and following analysis of a serum pool spiked with both analytes. 3-epi-25OHD3 signal enhancement was dependent on mobile phase composition. Compared with 3-epi-25OHD3 calibrators, indirect quantitation methods resulted in up to 10 times as many samples having 3-epi-25OHD3 concentrations ≥ 10 nmol/L, and an approximately fourfold increase in the maximum observed 3-epi-25OHD3 concentration to 95 nmol/L.

Conclusions

Enhanced 3-epi-25OHD3 signal leads to overestimation of its concentrations in the indirect quantitation methods used in many previous studies. The enhanced signal may contribute to greater interference in some 25OHD LC-MS/MS assays than others. We highlight that equimolar responses cannot be assumed in LC-MS/MS systems, even if two molecules are structurally similar.
The Shi‘ite Law of Migration
Authors: Darwish Linda
Published: September 2013

This study surveys rulings on the subject of migration issued by Imami Shi‘ite legal scholars from the formative 10th – 14th centuries to contemporary times. Prefacing this survey with an examination of hijrah (migration) in the Qur’an and early Imami traditions, the study opens up reflection on an area of Islamic legal discourse that is largely ignored in the literature on Islam in the West. In examining the legal discourse on migration as an historical phenomenon central to the early construction of Muslim identity and not simply as an ad hoc response to modern contingencies, we are able to situate the rulings of traditional modern legal scholars within a long-standing discursive framework. The study demonstrates that while early jurists constructed a rationale for migration to Muslim-held territory that served the interests of the community or state and religion, jurists of the modern period re-employ the same theoretical models while adjusting them to respond to the historical circumstances of cultural and religious globalization.
The EU as an effective trade power? Strategic choice of judicial candidates in the context of the World Trade Organization
Authors: Elsig Manfred
Published: September 2013

Drawing on the European Union (EU) foreign policy literature on effectiveness, this article studies how the European Union chooses judges to serve on the World Trade Organization’s key judicial institution: the Appellate Body. Conceptually, the article differentiates between effectiveness in representation and effectiveness in impact. The article shows how delegation to the European Commission has increased the strategic agenda-setting power for championing its preferred candidates. The article further compares European and US practice in nominating candidates. Overall, the article finds that effectiveness in representation has increased over time. In terms of effectiveness in impact, the article shows how the international environment conditions the EU’s influence. The article also exposes the difficulties of studying the effectiveness of EU external relations due to the peculiar decision-making processes dominant in judicial bodies.
The EU’s growing pains in negotiating international food standards
Authors: van Schaik Louise
Published: September 2013

This article relates the effectiveness of the European Union’s (EU) effectiveness to its international actorness in negotiations on international food standards taking place in the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC). Actorness is taken to result from EU competence, preference homogeneity and processes of socialisation among EU Member State representatives. In the 2009 negotiations on growth promoters for livestock, whose use the EU opposes, the Commission took the lead. It was trusted and supported by the EU Member States, but its dominant role resulted in them being rather passive. As a result, the EU’s potential to negotiate effectively in the CAC was not used in its full potential.
The Tribalism of Teaching and Learning
Authors: Daniel David B. , Chew Stephen L.
Published: September 2013

Scholarly research focusing on teaching and learning has experienced extraordinary growth in the last 20 years. Although this is generally good news for the profession of teaching, a troubling form of tribalism has emerged that inhibits the advancement of teaching practice. In this essay, we trace the development of scholarly inquiry into teaching and learning and the emergence of different “tribes” within the movement, each with its own outlets, goals, and methods. Finally, we discuss how these tribes can bridge their differences and work together to advance teaching effectiveness.
To Retire or Not to Retire? That Is the Question
Authors: Matthews Janet R.
Published: September 2013

During the 1960s, there was extensive hiring of college and university faculty members. This large group of professors are now at or nearing retirement age. Concerns about the economy, the availability of good health insurance, increased life expectancy, and removal of mandatory retirement laws may influence decisions about when to retire. Although references about enjoying retirement are readily available, less information appears to exist about the decision-making process for faculty members. This article provides some initial information for faculty members facing the possibility of retirement as well as calls for the development of a discussion forum about retirement devoted to psychology faculty.
The median raphe nucleus in anxiety revisited
Authors: Andrade Telma GCS , Zangrossi Hélio , Graeff Frederico G
Published: September 2013

Although the role of the median raphe nucleus (MRN) in the regulation of anxiety has received less attention than that of the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) there is substantial evidence supporting this function. Reported results with different animal models of anxiety in rats show that whereas inactivation of serotonergic neurons in the MRN causes anxiolysis, the stimulation of the same neurons is anxiogenic. In particular, studies using the elevated T-maze comparing serotonergic interventions in the MRN and in the DRN indicate that the former affect only the inhibitory avoidance task, which has been related to generalized anxiety. In contrast, similar operations in the DRN change both the inhibitory avoidance and the one-way escape task, the latter being representative of panic disorder. Simultaneous injections of 5-HT-acting drugs in the MRN and in the dorsal hippocampus (DH) suggest that the MRN-DH pathway mediates the regulatory function of the MRN in anxiety. Overall, the results discussed in this review point to a relevant role of the MRN in the regulation of anxiety, but not panic, through the 5-HT pathway that innervates the DH.
Viewing the world through the prism of music: Effects of music on perceptions of the environment
Authors: Yamasaki Teruo , Yamada Keiko , Laukka Petri
Published: September 2013

Questionnaire and interview studies suggest that music is valued for its role in managing the listener’s impression of the environment, but systematic investigations on the topic are scarce. We present a field experiment wherein participants were asked to rate their impression of four different environments (a quiet residential area, traveling by train in the suburbs, at a busy crossroads, and in a tranquil park area) on bipolar adjective scales, while listening to music (which varied regarding level of perceived activation and valence) or in silence. Results showed that the evaluation of the environment was in general affected in the direction of the characteristics of the music, especially in conditions where the perceived characteristics of the music and environment were incongruent. For example, highly active music increased the activation ratings of environments which were perceived as inactive without music, whereas inactive music decreased the activation ratings of environments which were perceived as highly active without music. Also, highly positive music increased the positivity ratings of the environments. In sum, the findings suggest that music may function as a prism that modifies the impression of one’s surroundings. Different theoretical explanations of the results are discussed.
A Cell of One’s Own? Incarceration and Other Turning Points in Women’s Journeys to Desistance
Authors: Michalsen Venezia
Published: September 2013

Research has shown the importance of turning points in desistance from criminal behavior. Using qualitative data from a sample of 100 formerly incarcerated mothers interviewed about their criminal behavior, this article explores their descriptions of transition moments and whether and how those moments affected their criminal behavior. The findings indicate that whereas parenting emerges as a turning point, the practical difficulties of reentry may reduce the impact of mothering on women’s desistance. More self-focused turning points, such as those due to incarceration, arrest, and sobriety appeared to be particularly important to the women’s desistance. This article emphasizes the need for research into the subjective and environmental factors that affect women’s desistance behaviors.
Nitric oxide synthase, calcitonin gene-related peptide and NK-1 receptor mechanisms are involved in GTN-induced neuronal activation
Authors: Ramachandran Roshni , Bhatt Deepak Kumar , Ploug Kenneth Beri , Hay-Schmidt Anders , Jansen-Olesen Inger , Gupta Saurabh , Olesen Jes
Published: September 2013

Background and aim

Infusion of glyceryltrinitrate (GTN), a nitric oxide (NO) donor, in awake, freely moving rats closely mimics a universally accepted human model of migraine and responds to sumatriptan treatment. Here we analyse the effect of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) systems on the GTN-induced neuronal activation in this model.

Materials and methods

The femoral vein was catheterised in rats and GTN was infused (4 µg/kg/min, for 20 minutes, intravenously). Immunohistochemistry was performed to analyse Fos, nNOS and CGRP and Western blot for measuring nNOS protein expression. The effect of olcegepant, L-nitro-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) and neurokinin (NK)-1 receptor antagonist L-733060 were analysed on Fos activation.

Results

GTN-treated rats showed a significant increase of nNOS and CGRP in dura mater and CGRP in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC). Upregulation of Fos was observed in TNC four hours after the infusion. This activation was inhibited by pre-treatment with olcegepant. Pre-treatment with L-NAME and L-733060 also significantly inhibited GTN induced Fos expression.

Conclusion

The present study indicates that blockers of CGRP, NOS and NK-1 receptors all inhibit GTN induced Fos activation. These findings also predict that pre-treatment with olcegepant may be a better option than post-treatment to study its inhibitory effect in GTN migraine models.
Framework for integration of informal waste management sector with the formal sector in Pakistan
Authors: Masood Maryam , Barlow Claire Y
Published: September 2013

Historically, waste pickers around the globe have utilised urban solid waste as a principal source of livelihood. Formal waste management sectors usually perceive the informal waste collection/recycling networks as backward, unhygienic and generally incompatible with modern waste management systems. It is proposed here that through careful planning and administration, these seemingly troublesome informal networks can be integrated into formal waste management systems in developing countries, providing mutual benefits. A theoretical framework for integration based on a case study in Lahore, Pakistan, is presented. The proposed solution suggests that the municipal authority should draw up and agree on a formal work contract with the group of waste pickers already operating in the area. The proposed system is assessed using the integration radar framework to classify and analyse possible intervention points between the sectors. The integration of the informal waste workers with the formal waste management sector is not a one dimensional or single step process. An ideal solution might aim for a balanced focus on all four categories of intervention, although this may be influenced by local conditions. Not all the positive benefits will be immediately apparent, but it is expected that as the acceptance of such projects increases over time, the informal recycling economy will financially supplement the formal system in many ways.
Firm-level restructuring and union strategies in Europe: local union responses in Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands
Authors: Pulignano Valeria , Stewart Paul
Published: September 2013

A range of literature has attempted to reconceptualize union agendas for firm-level restructuring by identifying variety in local union strategic responses. This article explores the conditions under which local unions respond strategically to company restructuring in the Netherlands, Italy and Ireland. Two distinct types of union strategies are identified: confrontation based on ‘job protection’; cooperation based on ‘job transition’. Evidence suggests that different combinations of structural and socio-political firm-level conditions encourage the choice of specific union strategy. Understanding the nature and the interactions between firm-level contextual factors, within a broader institutional setting during restructuring, is important to provide a fuller explanation for the variety of strategic choices facing local unions.
Development of hexa (aminophenyl)cyclotriphosphazene-modified cyanate ester composites for high-temperature applications
Authors: Krishnadevi K. , Grace A. Nirmala , Alagar M. , Selvaraj V.
Published: September 2013

The organic–inorganic hybrid of hexa(aminophenyl)cyclotriphosphazene (CPA) was synthesized by reacting hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene with 4-acetamidophenol followed by hydrolysis. The resulting product CPA was then allowed to react with 2,2-bis(4-cyanatophenyl)propane (cyanate ester) in different ratios (5, 10, and 15%) to form six-membered oxygen-linked triazine ring with formation of highly cross-linked network structure. Thermal curing behavior was confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis and thermal properties were studied using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry analyses. Dielectric constant and dielectric loss were measured using impedance analyzer. Data resulted from different studies indicate that these hybrid composites can be used for high-performance thermal applications in the place of conventional cyanate esters for better performance.
Development of a force-decoupled parallel alignment device for nanoimprint applications
Authors: Du Chong , Chen Weihai , Wu Yunjie , Chen Wenjie , Yuan Mei
Published: September 2013

High-precision parallel alignment between the substrate and the template is of great importance for nanoimprint lithography. Recently, flexure-based mechanism is commonly employed to realize high-precision parallel alignment; however, stiffness in imprint axis is hard to guarantee. In this article, a new parallel alignment device is proposed, which enables the imprinting force bypass the delicate alignment mechanism, thus eliminating the side effects of imprint forces and ensuring parallel alignment able to be carried out properly. A spherical air bearing is adopted in the device for the above-mentioned purpose through decoupling the nonuniform imprinting forces distributing on the template, allowing only the torque to reach the delicate alignment mechanism. The structural parameters of the air bearing are optimized through modeling and analysis of the bearing performances in terms of load-carrying capacity and stiffness. For the bearing preload, a set of permanent magnets are employed. The preliminary experimental results show that high load capacity and stiffness are achieved, which are consistent with the derived model.