bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The AMPK Inhibitor Compound C Is a Potent AMPK-Independent Antiglioma Agent
Authors: Liu Xiaona , Chhipa Rishi Raj , Nakano Ichiro , Dasgupta Biplab
Published: January 2014

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an evolutionarily conserved energy sensor important for cell growth, proliferation, survival, and metabolic regulation. Active AMPK inhibits biosynthetic enzymes like mTOR and acetyl CoA carboxylase (required for protein and lipid synthesis, respectively) to ensure that cells maintain essential nutrients and energy during metabolic crisis. Despite our knowledge about this incredibly important kinase, no specific chemical inhibitors are available to examine its function. However, one small molecule known as compound C (also called dorsomorphin) has been widely used in cell-based, biochemical, and in vivo assays as a selective AMPK inhibitor. In nearly all these reports including a recent study in glioma, the biochemical and cellular effects of compound C have been attributed to its inhibitory action toward AMPK. While examining the status of AMPK activation in human gliomas, we observed that glioblastomas express copious amount of active AMPK. Compound C effectively reduced glioma viability in vitro both by inhibiting proliferation and inducing cell death. As expected, compound C inhibited AMPK; however, all the antiproliferative effects of this compound were AMPK independent. Instead, compound C killed glioma cells by multiple mechanisms, including activation of the calpain/cathepsin pathway, inhibition of AKT, mTORC1/C2, cell-cycle block at G2–M, and induction of necroptosis and autophagy. Importantly, normal astrocytes were significantly less susceptible to compound C. In summary, compound C is an extremely potent antiglioma agent but we suggest that caution should be taken in interpreting results when this compound is used as an AMPK inhibitor. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(3); 596–605. ©2014 AACR.
Preoperative Serum Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor-κB Ligand/Osteoprotegerin Predict Stabilization of Spontaneously Restored Sinus Rhythm in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Patients after Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Cao Hailong , Zhu Jinfu , Xi Lei , Røe Oluf Dimitri , Chen Yijiang , Wang Dongjin
Published: January 2014

Objective: The osteoprotegerin (OPG)/receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK)/RANK ligand (RANKL) axis may play an important role in the stabilization of restored sinus rhythm (SR) after mitral valve (MV) surgery by stimulating atrial fibrillation (AF)-related atrial remodeling in AF patients. Herein, we investigated the association between preoperative serum soluble RANKL (sRANKL)/OPG and the stabilization of restored SR after MV surgery. Methods: Persistent AF patients who had spontaneously restored SR after MV replacement were enrolled (n = 203). Comparison was made between patients without AF recurrence (n = 71) and patients experiencing recurrence (n = 132). Results: Patients experiencing recurrence had higher serum levels of sRANKL, OPG and sRANKL/OPG ratio than patients without recurrence. Multivariate survival regression analysis showed that clinical factors such as duration of AF, left atrial diameter and left atrial thrombosis, as well as serum sRANKL level and the sRANKL/OPG ratio, were independent predictors of AF recurrence. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the best diagnostic values of the serum sRANKL level and the sRANKL/OPG ratio for predicting recurrence were 3.44 pmol/l and 0.53, respectively. Conclusions: Patients who had a low preoperative serum sRANKL level and sRANKL/OPG ratio are likely to have a stable spontaneously restored SR postoperatively. Thus, we suggest that patients at high risk of early AF recurrence should be considered for concomitant surgical cardioversion during MV surgery.
Interest and Informational Preferences Regarding Genomic Testing for Modest Increases in Colorectal Cancer Risk
Authors: Anderson A.E. , Flores K.G. , Boonyasiriwat W. , Gammon A. , Kohlmann W. , Birmingham W.C. , Schwartz M.D. , Samadder J. , Boucher K. , Kinney A.Y.
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims: This study explored the interest in genomic testing for modest changes in colorectal cancer risk and preferences for receiving genomic risk communications among individuals with intermediate disease risk due to a family history of colorectal cancer. Methods: Surveys were conducted on 272 men and women at intermediate risk for colorectal cancer enrolled in a randomized trial comparing a remote personalized risk communication intervention (TeleCARE) aimed at promoting colonoscopy to a generic print control condition. Guided by Leventhal's Common Sense Model of Self-Regulation, we examined demographic and psychosocial factors possibly associated with interest in SNP testing. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with interest in SNP testing and preferences for receiving genomic risk communications. Results: Three-fourths of participants expressed interest in SNP testing for colorectal cancer risk. Testing interest did not markedly change across behavior modifier scenarios. Participants preferred to receive genomic risk communications from a variety of sources: printed materials (69.5%), oncologists (54.8%), primary-care physicians (58.4%), and the web (58.1%). Overall, persons who were unmarried (p = 0.029), younger (p = 0.003) and with greater cancer-related fear (p = 0.019) were more likely to express interest in predictive genomic testing for colorectal cancer risk. In a stratified analysis, cancer-related fear was associated with the interest in predictive genomic testing in the intervention group (p = 0.017), but not the control group. Conclusions: Individuals with intermediate familial risk for colorectal cancer are highly interested in genomic testing for modest increases in disease risk, specifically unmarried persons, younger age groups and those with greater cancer fear.
Decreased Maturation of Dendritic Cells in the Central Airways of COPD Patients Is Associated with VEGF, TGF-β and Vascularity
Authors: Zanini Andrea , Spanevello Antonio , Baraldo Simonetta , Majori Maria , Della Patrona Sabrina , Gumiero Federico , Aiello Marina , Olivieri Dario , Saetta Marina , Chetta Alfredo
Published: January 2014

Background: Dendritic cells (DCs) have a pivotal role in the onset and regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses. Moreover, DCs can interact with angiogenic modulators, resulting in modification of their biology and participation in angiogenesis. Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between the density of DCs, vascularity and expression of angiogenic factors [vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)] in the central airways of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Methods: The study included 20 patients with moderate/severe COPD and 8 healthy control subjects. Bronchial biopsies were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Specimens were examined for CD83 and CD207 to mark mature and immature DCs, respectively, for collagen IV to evaluate vascularity, and for VEGF, TGF-β and bFGF. Results: Compared to controls, COPD patients had a significant reduction of CD83+ cells and an increased CD207/CD83 ratio (p < 0.05). Vascularity, VEGF, TGF-β and bFGF were also significantly increased in COPD patients as compared to controls (p < 0.01). In COPD patients, CD83+ cells were inversely related to VEGF and TGF-β expression (p < 0.05). Moreover, the CD207/CD83 ratio was positively related to VEGF, TGF-β and vascularity (p < 0.05). Finally, CD207+ cells were inversely related to FEV1 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results show a reduced maturation of DCs in COPD that was related to airway vascularity and angiogenic factors (VEGF and TGF-β). Additionally, immature DCs were significantly related to disease severity. We propose that the interplay between airway vascular changes, on one hand, and DCs maturation on the other, may play a key role in the pathogenetic mechanisms of COPD.
Lytic Peptidase L5 of Lysobacter sp. XL1 with Broad Antimicrobial Spectrum
Authors: Vasilyeva Natalia V. , Shishkova Nina A. , Marinin Leonid I. , Ledova Larisa A. , Tsfasman Irina M. , Muranova Tatyana A. , Stepnaya Olga A. , Kulaev Igor S.
Published: January 2014

The Gram-negative bacterium Lysobacter sp. XL1 secretes lytic enzymes (L1-L5) into the culture medium. Enzyme L5 is the most recently found extracellular lytic enzyme of this bacterium. The paper presents the results of the isolation and characterization of some properties of this enzyme. Thus, enzyme L5 of Lysobacter sp. XL1 is a lytic serine protease. Earlier, the enzyme was shown to be secreted into the culture medium by means of outer membrane vesicles, which possess a lytic effect towards living cells of Erwinia caratovora B15 [Vasilyeva et al., FEBS J 2008;15:3827-3835]. This work shows the action of enzyme L5 either as a vesicle component or the homogeneous enzyme L5 on a broad range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. Moreover, the vesicles containing this enzyme were shown to lyze the selected test cultures more efficiently than the soluble enzyme L5. It appears to be one of the first precedents of a bacteriolytic effect mediated by the action of outer membrane vesicles filled with extracellular lytic enzymes. The results suggest that the enzyme L5 of Lysobacter sp. XL1 and the vesicles containing this enzyme can be used as an antimicrobial drug.
Effect of Hyperthyroidism on the Hypercoagulable State and Thromboembolic Events in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Chen Qingxing , Yan Yan , Zhang Lei , Cheng Kuan , Liu Yuping , Zhu Wenqing
Published: January 2014

Objective: To clarify whether hyperthyroidism (HT) itself confers an additional effect on the hypercoagulable state and the risk of ischemic stroke among patients with hyperthyroid atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: We prospectively evaluated plasma D-dimer levels and thromboembolic events among three groups of patients (hyperthyroid AF, n = 62; nonthyroid AF, n = 107, and HT without AF, n = 100). Plasma D-dimer levels were used to evaluate the hypercoagulable state. Results: The D-dimer level was significantly higher in patients with hyperthyroid AF than in nonthyroid AF (0.66 ± 0.06 vs. 0.34 ± 0.02 mg/l, p < 0.001) and HT without AF (0.66 ± 0.06 vs. 0.27 ± 0.02 mg/l, p < 0.001). During a 3-year follow-up, patients with hyperthyroid AF had a significantly higher incidence of ischemic stroke compared with patients with nonthyroid AF (hazard ratio, HR: 3.2, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.01-5.59, p = 0.04). Cox regression analysis revealed that age (HR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.01-1.21, p = 0.05), CHADS2-VAS score (HR: 5.5, 95% CI: 1.51-7.43, p = 0.01) and anticoagulation (HR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.07-0.54, p = 0.01) were independent predictors of risk for the occurrence of ischemic stroke. Conclusions: The present study suggests that HT may enhance the hypercoagulable state and the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with AF.
Efficacy of Bronchoscopic Closure of a Bronchopleural Fistula with Amplatzer Devices: Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Fruchter Oren , El Raouf Bayya Abed , Abdel-Rahman Nader , Saute Milton , Bruckheimer Elchanan , Kramer Mordechai R.
Published: January 2014

Background: The development of a bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. We have developed a minimally invasive method of bronchoscopic BPF closure using Amplatzer devices (AD) and Amplatzer vascular plugs (AVP), with excellent short-term results. Objectives: The aim of the present report was to explore the long-term outcome of patients treated by Amplatzer occluders and the durability of this novel modality of BPF treatment. Methods: A total of 31 central BPF in 31 patients (mean age 66.8 years, range 19-91) were sealed under moderate sedation bronchoscopically by either AD (n = 19) or AVP (n = 12). The average follow-up period was 17.6 months (range 1-68 months). Results: The main etiology for BPF was surgery (n = 24), pneumonectomy (n = 14) or lobectomy/segmentectomy (n = 10). The underlying disease was either primary (n = 19) or metastatic (n = 2) lung cancer. The immediate success rate was 96% as symptoms related to BPF disappeared in 30 of the 31 patients. Short-term (<30 days) mortality was 13% (4 patients). At follow-up, 14 patients (45%) are still alive. Out of 12 patients with late mortality, in 5 patients (41%) the death was directly related to cancer relapse, and no patient died due to BPF recurrence. Conclusion: Endobronchial closure of BPF using both types of Amplatzer occluders (AD and AVP) is a minimally invasive effective modality of treatment with high safety profile and satisfactory long-term outcome considering the poor prognosis in this particular group of patients.
A Rare Non-Robertsonian Translocation with Chromosome Fusion der(5;15)(q35.3;q10): Segregation Analysis in Male Meiosis and Preimplantation Embryos
Authors: Pylyp L. , Zukin V. , Mykytenko D. , Spinenko L.
Published: January 2014

Balanced chromosomal translocations do not normally have phenotypic manifestation, but lead to increased risk of infertility, miscarriage and live-birth of chromosomally unbalanced offspring in carriers. The risk assessment of such outcomes in carriers of rare chromosomal abnormalities is complicated since limited information is available on the frequencies of unbalanced sperm and embryo formation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the amount of normal/balanced and unbalanced sperm and embryos of a rare non-Robertsonian chromosome fusion carrier with karyotype 45,XY,der(5;15)(q35.3;q10). Cytogenetic analyses of peripheral blood lymphocytes, multicolour fluorescence in situ hybridization on sperm sample, trophectoderm biopsy, and preimplantation genetic diagnosis by array comparative genomic hybridization were performed. The most frequent type of meiotic segregation was alternate (53% in sperm and 66.7% in embryos), followed by adjacent (44% in sperm and 33.3% in day-5 embryos). Additionally, 3:0 segregation was detected in sperm with a frequency of 2.6% and not detected in day-5 embryos. Results of sperm segregation analysis in rare rearrangement carriers are valuable for genetic counselling in assisted reproduction.
Metformin Protects Against Systolic Overload–Induced Heart Failure Independent of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase α2
Authors: Xu Xin , Lu Zhongbing , Fassett John , Zhang Ping , Hu Xinli , Liu Xiaoyu , Kwak Dongmin , Li Jingxin , Zhu Guangshuo , Tao Yi , Hou Mingxiao , Wang Huan , Guo Haipeng , Viollet Benoit , McFalls Edward O. , Bache Robert J. , Chen Yingjie
Published: January 2014

Activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-α2 protects the heart against pressure overload–induced heart failure in mice. Although metformin is a known activator of AMPK, it is unclear whether its cardioprotection acts independently of an AMPKα2-dependent pathway. Because the role of AMPKα1 stimulation on remodeling of failing hearts is poorly defined, we first studied the effects of disruption of both the AMPKα1 and AMPKα2 genes on the response to transverse aortic constriction–induced left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and dysfunction in mice. AMPKα2 gene knockout significantly exacerbated the degree of transverse aortic constriction–induced LV hypertrophy and dysfunction, whereas AMPKα1 gene knockout had no effect on the degree of transverse aortic constriction–induced LV hypertrophy and dysfunction. Administration of metformin was equally effective in attenuating transverse aortic constriction-induced LV remodeling in both wild-type and AMPKα2 knockout mice, as evidenced by reduced LV and lung weights, a preserved LV ejection fraction, and reduced phosphorylation of mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR
Ser2448
) and its downstream target p-p70S6K
Thr389
. These data support the notion that activation of AMPKα1 plays a negligible role in protecting the heart against the adverse effects of chronic pressure overload, and that metformin protects against adverse remodeling through a pathway that seems independent of AMPKα2.
Base-Resolution Maps of 5-Methylcytosine and 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine in Dahl S Rats
Authors: Liu Yong , Liu Pengyuan , Yang Chun , Cowley Allen W. , Liang Mingyu
Published: January 2014

Analysis of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) at single-base resolution has been largely limited to studies of stem cells or developmental stages. Given the potential importance of epigenetic events in hypertension, we have analyzed 5hmC and 5-methylcytosine (5mC) at single-base resolution in the renal outer medulla of the Dahl salt-sensitive rat and examined the effect of disease-relevant genetic or environmental alterations on 5hmC and 5mC patterns. Of CpG sites that fell within CpG islands, 11% and 1% contained significant 5mC and 5hmC, respectively. 5mC levels were substantially higher for genes with lower mRNA abundance and showed a prominent nadir around the transcription start site. In contrast, 5hmC levels were higher in genes with higher expression. Substitution of a 12.9-Mbp region of chromosome 13, which attenuates the hypertensive and renal injury phenotypes in salt-sensitive rats, or exposure to a high-salt diet, which accelerates the disease phenotypes, was associated with differential 5mC or 5hmC in several hundred CpG islands. Nearly 80% of the CpG islands that were differentially methylated in response to salt and associated with differential mRNA abundance were intragenic CpG islands. The substituted genomic segment had significant
cis
effects on mRNA abundance but not on DNA methylation. The study established base-resolution maps of 5mC and 5hmC in an in vivo model of disease and revealed several characteristics of 5mC and 5hmC important for understanding the role of epigenetic modifications in the regulation of organ systems function and complex diseases.
Food Allergy Diagnosis and Management Practices Among Pediatricians
Authors: Gupta Ruchi S. , Lau Claudia H. , Dyer Ashley A. , Sohn Min-Woong , Altshuler Barry A. , Kaye Bennett A. , Necheles Jonathan
Published: January 2014

Our goals were to (1) estimate the rates of parent-reported versus physician-diagnosed food allergy, (2) determine pediatrician adherence to national guidelines, and (3) obtain pediatricians’ perspectives on guideline nonadherence. A mixed method approach was used, including survey, chart review, and qualitative methods. Overall, 10.9% of parents reported having a child with food allergy and two thirds of these cases were detected by the pediatrician. Chart reviews revealed high rates of guideline adherence with respect to allergist referral (67.3%), but less consistent adherence regarding documentation of reaction history (38.8%), appropriate use of diagnostic tests (34.7%), prescription of epinephrine autoinjectors (44.9%), and counseling families in food allergy management (24.5%). Pediatricians suggested that poor adherence was due to lack of documentation, familiarity with guidelines, and clarity regarding the pediatrician’s role in managing food allergy. Findings emphasize the need to better establish the role of the pediatrician and to improve awareness and adherence to guidelines.
The Role of Minor Parties in Political Competition: Lessons from Ghana’s 2012 Elections
Authors: Aidoo Richard , Chamberlain Adam
Published: January 2014

The study of minor parties has largely focused on well-established democracies, even though these political organizations play significant roles in new and emerging democracies. With Ghana as a case study, this investigation provides a theoretical path to understanding the normative role of minor parties in political competition, especially in developing nations with single-member plurality systems. By placing emphasis on the experiences of such parties in Ghana’s 2012 elections in the Fourth Republican dispensation, this article examines the value and importance of minor parties in helping to create and maintain stable democracies. In spite of the recognizable obstacles minor parties face, we argue that they nevertheless contribute to the health of a burgeoning democratic culture.
The Geography of Ethnocentrism
Authors: Bausch Andrew W.
Published: January 2014

Hammond and Axelrod use an evolutionary agent-based model to explore the development of ethnocentrism. They argue that local interactions permit groups, relying on in-group favoritism, to overcome the Nash equilibrium of the prisoner’s dilemma and sustain in-group cooperation. This article shows that higher levels of cooperation evolve when groups are dropped from the model, breaking the link between ethnocentrism and cooperation. This article then generalizes Hammond and Axelrod’s model by parameterizing the underlying geographical assumptions they make about the evolutionary environment. This more general model shows that their findings are sensitive to these assumptions and that small changes to the assumed geography of reproduction significantly affect the probabilities of finding “ethnocentric” behaviors. The model presented here indicates that it is not local interactions, per se, but settings where interactions are highly likely to be with close relatives that lead to “ethnocentrism” as modeled by Hammond and Axelrod.
Diagnosis, management and outcomes of necrotising soft tissue infection within a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit
Authors: Lee Ling Hong , Chalmers Richard , Muir Tobian
Published: January 2014

Background and aims

Necrotising soft tissue infection (NSTI) is an extremely serious condition that relies on a high index of suspicion, prompt diagnosis and emergent radical surgical treatment. We explored the presentation, management and outcomes of NSTI within our department. We also assessed the potential benefit of using risk predictor scoring system.

Methods

Retrospective review using departmental electronic database and hospital records.

Results

Twenty-four patients were treated for NSTI within our department between 2004 and 2010. Seventeen presented in our hospital to various surgical and medical teams. All patients presented with pain, swelling, erythema and tenderness at palpation. Only 40% of necrotising fasciitis and 28.6% of Fournier’s gangrene were diagnosed as NSTI at initial assessment. Average mean interval time from admission to primary surgery was 17.7 h and 4 h from diagnosis to primary surgery. There were four mortalities. The average risk predictor Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotising Fasciitis score was 7.9. Significant morbidities post-operatively included bowel stoma, long-term urinary catheter and new diagnoses of carcinomas.

Conclusion

Physicians and surgeons need to be suspicious of NSTI in severe cases of soft tissue infection to prevent delay in diagnosis and life-saving treatment. Scoring system can be used judiciously as adjunct to aid diagnosis.
Equality, Solidarity, and the Human Condition
Authors: Kronenberg Clive W.
Published: January 2014

An examination of the humanist thought embedded in José Martí’s anticolonial critique reveals his deep devotion to human solidarity and human equality, with education, in particular, seen as “an act of love.” Underpinning this commitment is Martí’s considerate awareness of the “human condition” of the oppressed and colonized. Whereas humanism as theorized and practiced in Western liberal circles has neglected to challenge the current order of oppression, misery, and suffering, Martí’s humanist critique is situated squarely on the side of victims, waving the banner of human dignity and equality as well as of solidarity with the disfavored.

Un análisis del pensamiento humanista que caracteriza la crítica anticolonial de José Martí revela su profunda devoción a la solidaridad e igualdad humana; la educación, en particular, es vista como “un acto de amor.” Este compromiso se sustenta en la conciencia que tiene Martí de la “condición humana” de los oprimidos y colonizados. Mientras que el humanismo como teoría y práctica en círculos liberales occidentales no ha buscado desafiar el orden actual de opresión, miseria, y sufrimiento, la crítica humanista de Martí se encuentra del lado de las víctimas, ondeando la bandera de la igualdad y la dignidad humana así como de la solidaridad con los desfavorecidos.
Purhépechas in Tarecuato and Chicago
Authors: Schütze Stephanie
Published: January 2014

The organization of indigenous Purhépecha migrants from the northwestern Mexican state of Michoacán to Chicago has benefited from the ability they have developed to adapt to different political and cultural contexts in Mexico. The Purhépecha community of Tarecuato has managed to combine indigenous culture and the administrative structures imposed by the nation-state to confront the discrimination and assimilation strategies of the mestizo municipality of Santiago Tangamandapio. In Chicago, the migrants from Tarecuato have organized themselves into a hometown association, the Club Tarecuato, and this has made it possible for them to negotiate development projects in the home community with the mestizo municipal president when he visits them in Chicago. Thus the transnational engagement of these indigenous migrants has produced a shift in the political power structure, giving them a voice in local decision making and increasing their influence in the predominantly mestizo municipality.

La organización de migrantes purépechas originarios del estado de Michoacán, en el noroccidente de México, y ahora residentes en Chicago se ha beneficiado de su capacidad de adaptación a diferentes contextos políticos y culturales en México. La comunidad Purhépecha de Tarecuato ha logrado combinar la cultura indígena y las estructuras administrativas impuestas por el estado-nación para hacer frente a las estrategias de discriminación y asimilación del municipio mestizo de Santiago Tangamandapio. En Chicago, los migrantes de Tarecuato han creado un club de oriundos, el Club Tarecuato. Esto les ha permitido negociar proyectos de desarrollo en la comunidad de origen con el presidente municipal mestizo cuando les visita en Chicago. Es así que el compromiso de estos indígenas migrantes transnacionales ha producido un cambio en la estructura del poder político, otorgándoles participación en la toma de decisiones locales e incrementando su influencia un municipio predominantemente mestizo.
Notes From the Field
Authors: Ma Irene W. Y. , Zalunardo Nadia , Brindle Mary E. , Hatala Rose , McLaughlin Kevin
Published: January 2014

Blinded assessments of technical skills using video-recordings may offer more objective assessments than direct observations. This study seeks to compare these two modalities. Two trained assessors independently assessed 18 central venous catheterization performances by direct observation and video-recorded assessments using two tools. Although sound quality was deemed adequate in all videos, portions of the video for wire handling and drape handling were frequently out of view (n = 13, 72% for wire-handling; n = 17, 94% for drape-handling). There were no differences in summary global rating scores, checklist scores, or pass/fail decisions for either modality ( p > 0.05). Inter-rater reliability was acceptable for both modalities. Of the 26 discrepancies identified between direct observation and video-recorded assessments, three discrepancies (12%) were due to inattention during video review, while one (4%) discrepancy was due to inattention during direct observation. In conclusion, although scores did not differ between the two assessment modalities, techniques of video-recording may significantly impact individual items of assessments.
Information sharing and the dimensions of social capital in Second Life
Authors: Huvila Isto , Ek Stefan , Widén Gunilla
Published: January 2014

Earlier research has shown that the virtual world of Second Life is an environment that fosters the emergence of social capital. The central finding of this study is the pertinence of emotional communication and information sharing in the emergence of social capital in Second Life, and consequently, the significance of emotional intelligence as a basis for successful social and informational exchange. The emergence of social capital in Second Life is deeply affected by the dialectic of the conflicting expectations and experiences of the environment. The emergence of social capital in Second Life may be described as a process of accumulation of emotional intelligence that forms a basis for the exploitation of available structural and relational affordances of social and information exchange. The study is based on qualitative analysis of open-ended data collected using a web survey of Second Life users.
Taking Responsibility
Authors: Broady Timothy R. , Gray Rebecca , Gaffney Irene
Published: January 2014

Domestic violence is a significant social issue with serious implications for victims, families, and the wider community. The present research seeks to investigate specific characteristics that influence the propensity to behave violently. This first stage of a research-based evaluation identifies key differences between men attending a group work intervention program and the general community in terms of gender equity beliefs, self-esteem, personal mastery, and psychological distress. These findings not only provide valuable information for the provision of intervention services but also form a basis that future research may build on in evaluating the effectiveness of such programs.
Hospitalized Asian Patients and Their Spiritual Needs
Authors: Hodge David R. , Sun Fei , Wolosin Robert J.
Published: January 2014

Objectives: A paucity of research has examined the relationship between addressing the spiritual needs of hospitalized Asians and their overall satisfaction with service provision. This study examined this relationship, in tandem with the effects of eight potential mediators, to develop a model of spiritual care for older hospitalized Asians. Method: Structural equation modeling was used with a national sample of Asians ( N = 805), age 50 and above, who were consecutively discharged from hospitals over a 12-month period. Results: The relationship between spiritual needs and satisfaction was fully mediated by five variables: nurses, physicians, the discharge process, visitors, and the admissions process. Discussion: As the first study to develop and test a model of spiritual care for older hospitalized Asians, the findings provide practitioners with the information to target their efforts on the most important organizational areas that facilitate more effective, culturally relevant service delivery to members of this population.
Inclusive education in Nepal: Assumptions and reality
Authors: Maudslay Liz
Published: January 2014

This Research Note, which focuses on Nepal, challenges the way in which donor definitions of inclusive education for students with disabilities and learning difficulties can too easily be imposed upon countries in the South without allowing for a thorough analysis of the disability context of particular countries. It questions the way in which generalisations are often made about how disability is perceived and how disabled people are treated in Nepal without a thorough analysis of the complexity of the actual situation. It also questions the way in which donors often ignore and do not seek to build upon successful local ways of working with people with disabilities. The Research Note does not argue against the positive vision of inclusive education, but does attempt to point out that a top-down donor-led model of inclusion does not always leave space for a thorough study of the reality upon which educational changes must be based.
Aerodynamic performance of a two-dimensional flapping wing in asymmetric stroke
Authors: Zhu JY , Zhou CY
Published: January 2014

A numerical study on the aerodynamic performance of a two-dimensional flapping wing in asymmetric stroke in hovering and forward flight is carried out. The effect of the asymmetry of the stroke on aerodynamic forces and flow structures of the wing is analyzed. It is found that for hovering flight appropriate asymmetric stroke can enhance the aerodynamic performance of the wing at low Reynolds number, but it may not be functioning at moderate and high Reynolds numbers. For forward flight the asymmetric stroke does not increase the lifting efficiency and propulsive efficiency of the wing simultaneously. However, it influences the time history of the aerodynamic force significantly, which may enhance the flight maneuverability of the wing. The present results provide physical insight into the understanding of aerodynamics and flow structures of insect flight with asymmetric stroke.
Partisan power, economic coordination and variations in vocational training systems in Europe
Authors: Busemeyer Marius R , Schlicht-Schmälzle Raphaela
Published: January 2014

This article explores the variation of vocational education and training systems in European countries. From a survey of experts in 15 European countries, we develop a typology along two dimensions: employer involvement and public commitment. In a second step, we explain the variety of skill formation systems, highlighting the importance of partisan power and economic coordination. The causal argument is applied in three illustrative case studies of Germany, Sweden and the UK. In particular, we argue that a high degree of economic coordination increases the relevance of training relative to academic education. However, differences within the cluster of coordinated market economies are related to different legacies of partisan power in the post-war decades.
Jesus Loves Me This I Know: ’Cause My Mother Told Me So! … Being a Child of Religion and Violence
Authors: Casey Keree Louise
Published: January 2014

The most significant influences on our lives as we grow and develop from babies into children, teenagers into young adults, are usually our parents or primary care-givers. How we understand who we are in relation to our family structures, as well as the wider community, is influenced, nurtured and directed by our care-givers. Beyond our day to day interaction with others on an individual and communal basis, our care-givers not only influence our moral and ethical thinking but also our experience and expression of faith.

As a child of a devoutly religious mother and an agnostic father, religion was often a source of conflict. The expression of faith not only exacerbated the domestic violence within the family home, it was also a tool of violence.

This paper uses the creative tools of poetry and narrative story-telling to explore the connection between religion, children and violence and ultimately, healing and spirituality.
Computational micromechanics analysis of electron-hopping-induced conductive paths and associated macroscale piezoresistive response in carbon nanotube–polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Chaurasia A K , Seidel G D
Published: January 2014

In this study, a computational model is developed using finite-element techniques within a continuum micromechanics framework to capture the effect of electron-hopping-induced conductive paths at the nanoscale which contribute to the macroscale piezoresistive response of the nanocomposite. This is achieved by tracking the position of the nanotubes under applied deformations and modifying the conductivity of the intertube region depending on the relative proximity of individual pairs of nanotubes. The formation and disruption of the electron-hopping pathways are highly dependent on intertube distances and under deformations can result in microstructural rearrangements in terms of electrostatic properties leading to transitions in material symmetries and component magnitudes of the effective electrostatic properties. Thus, in order to capture the complexities of changing inhomogeneous nanoscale electrostatic behavior, where analytical Eshelby’s approaches cannot be used, a computational micromechanics model is needed. The effective conductivity and piezoresistive strain tensor coefficients are evaluated using volume-averaged energy equivalencies for aligned CNT–polymer nanocomposites in the transverse direction exploring different volume fractions of CNTs in the polymer and the maximum electron-hopping range. The impact of the electron-hopping mechanism on the effective piezoresistive response is studied through the macroscale effective gauge factors under different loading conditions. The effective piezoresistive strain coefficients and macroscale effective gauge factors are observed to be nonlinear with applied macroscale strain and are highly dependent on the type of boundary conditions. The effective macroscale gauge factors observed in the current study have magnitudes comparable to experimental observations reported in the literature with higher gauge factors observed closer to the percolation threshold.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Efficacy Versus Corticosteroid Injection Treatment for Chronic Severe Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Monto Raymond Rocco
Published: January 2014

Background:

Chronic plantar fasciitis is a common orthopedic condition that can prove difficult to successfully treat. In this study, autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a concentrated bioactive blood component rich in cytokines and growth factors, was compared to traditional cortisone injection in the treatment of chronic cases of plantar fasciitis resistant to traditional nonoperative management.

Methods:

Forty patients (23 females and 17 males) with unilateral chronic plantar fasciitis that did not respond to a minimum of 4 months of standardized traditional nonoperative treatment modalities were prospectively randomized and treated with either a single ultrasound guided injection of 3 cc PRP or 40 mg DepoMedrol cortisone. American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scoring was completed for all patients immediately prior to PRP or cortisone injection (pretreatment = time 0) and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months following injection treatment. Baseline pretreatment radiographs and MRI studies were obtained in all cases to confirm the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis.

Results:

The cortisone group had a pretreatment average AOFAS score of 52, which initially improved to 81 at 3 months posttreatment but decreased to 74 at 6 months, then dropped to near baseline levels of 58 at 12 months, and continued to decline to a final score of 56 at 24 months. In contrast, the PRP group started with an average pretreatment AOFAS score of 37, which increased to 95 at 3 months, remained elevated at 94 at 6 and 12 months, and had a final score of 92 at 24 months.

Conclusions:

PRP was more effective and durable than cortisone injection for the treatment of chronic recalcitrant cases of plantar fasciitis.

Level of Evidence:

Level I, prospective randomized comparative series.
Vertical Competition, Horizontal Competition, and Mobile Capital
Authors: Fox William F. , Hill Brian C. , Murray Matthew N.
Published: January 2014

American states and localities levy several taxes on business capital. Vertical tax competition arises as a state and its local governments tax a common base, while horizontal competition takes place across states, local governments in different states, and between local governments in one state and other states. Our application is unique in focusing on multiple federations and allowance for both intrafederation and interfederation competition. We find negative vertical reaction functions for states and localities indicating that capital tax rates are strategic substitutes. Local tax rates, on the other hand, react positively to other-state tax rates and to the rates of localities elsewhere. State rates are not affected by the rates of localities in other states, but they do react positively to the rates of neighboring states. We find evidence that states behave as Stackelberg leaders in the setting of capital taxes.
Validity of the Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale for youth with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Sterling Lindsey , Renno Patricia , Storch Eric A , Ehrenreich-May Jill , Lewin Adam B , Arnold Elysse , Lin Enjey , Wood Jeffrey
Published: January 2014

High rates of anxiety and depression are reported among youth with autism spectrum disorders. These conditions are generally assessed using measures validated for typically developing youth. Few studies have investigated their validity for autism spectrum disorders, which is crucial for accurate assessment and the provision of proper treatment. The Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale was evaluated with 67 youth with autism spectrum disorders to examine its utility in measuring anxiety and depression in this population. Parents and children (aged 11–15 years) referred to a multisite intervention study completed the Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale, Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children, Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule, Child Behavior Checklist, and Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale. Results suggest acceptable internal consistency of the Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale. Modest convergent validity was found among the Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale and other standardized measures of anxiety and depression. There were stronger correlations between Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale Total scores and subscales of measures expected to correlate significantly than those not expected to correlate. One exception was a significant association between the Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale and Child Behavior Checklist Attention subscale, calling into question the divergent validity in separating anxiety from attention problems. Overall, results suggest preliminary support for the Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale in youth with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders.
Concrete crack detection through full-field displacement and curvature measurements by visual mark tracking: A proof-of-concept study
Authors: Yin Zhaozheng , Wu Chenglin , Chen Genda
Published: January 2014

In this study, a noncontact vision-based sensing method is proposed to measure surface displacements and curvatures and to detect cracks in a reinforced concrete slab. The proposed method includes five independent modules for structure boundary identification by a dynamic programming algorithm, boundary movement tracking by a contour tracking algorithm, distinguishable surface feature detection by speed-up-robust features, feature (visual mark) tracking by a three-stage data association algorithm, and displacement interpolation from those at visual marks by a Delaunay triangulation algorithm. The displacement field was used to evaluate the slab curvature that functioned as a crack indicator. The proposed data association algorithm for visual mark translation, linking, and connection was successfully applied for visual mark tracking of concrete slab images. The proposed algorithms used in five modules are computationally efficient, making them viable tools for real-time structural health monitoring. By persistently tracking the features and positions of spatially distributed visual marks in time-lapse videos, the displacement time histories at mark locations are successfully evaluated. The relative error of displacement measurements for the tested concrete slab is approximately 1.24%. The proposed method was applied to successfully detect cracks of a full-scale reinforced concrete slab from image analysis. Unlike contact measurements, the proposed noncontact measurement is not affected by concrete cracking.
Photocatalytic solution discoloration and self-cleaning by polyester fabric functionalized with ZnO nanorods
Authors: Ashraf Munir , Champagne Philippe , Perwuelz Anne , Campagne Christine , Leriche Anne
Published: January 2014

Polyester fabric was functionalized with ZnO nanorods grown by hydrothermal method. The ZnO seeds were deposited on fabric which provided the sites for growth of nanorods. The functionalized fabric showed self-cleaning by degrading color stains and solution discoloration under the effect of ultraviolet (UV) light which was studied using two azo and one triphenylemethylene dye. The stained fabric was exposed to UV light and K/ S ( K = absorption coefficient, S = scattering coefficient) values were measured by spectrophotometer. Most of the stains were degraded in first 300 min and they disappeared completely after 24 h. The solution discoloration was studied by using different concentrations of dyes and was characterized by measuring absorbance. The rubbing and washing durabilities of the functionalized fabric were also investigated.
Study of capillary rise in biodegradable porous poly (l-lactic acid) electrospun nano/micro fiber yarns
Authors: Valipouri Afsaneh , Gharehaghaji Ali Akbar , Ravandi Seyed Abdolkarim Hosseini , Dabirian Farzad
Published: January 2014

Specific surface and surface porosity are governing factors in the penetration rate and the amount of liquid rise into the yarn. In this work, porous and non-porous fiber yarns of poly (l-lactic acid) (PLLA) were fabricated via electrospinning and twist insertion. The surface of PLLA electrospun fibers became porous after evaporation of highly volatile solvent in controlled humidity and temperature and changing the concentration of PLLA solution, resulted in the fibers with different surface porosity. Smooth PLLA nanofibers were obtained using non-volatile solvent. Consequently, capillary rise was investigated in both the porous fiber yarns and smooth nanofiber yarn. Experimental evidences revealed that two morphological characteristics of fibers, i.e. surface porosity and fineness of fibers in the electrospun yarn have a governing effect on the capillary rise phenomenon. Liquid penetration in electrospun yarn was increased by increasing the fiber fineness and/or decreasing the surface porosity. The results of this work suggest that finer fiber and smooth surface would be more beneficial for wicking.
Open-Label, Short-Term, Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease With Functional Imaging Correlates and Literature Review
Authors: Devi Gayatri , Voss Henning U. , Levine Dani , Abrassart Dana , Heier Linda , Halper James , Martin Leilanie , Lowe Sandy
Published: January 2014

Background:

Accumulating evidence suggests repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may be beneficial in ameliorating cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods:

AD patients received four high-frequency rTMS sessions over the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) over two weeks. Structured cognitive assessments were administered at baseline, at 2 weeks after completion of rTMS, and at 4 weeks post treatment. At these same times, tolerant patients underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while performing structured motor and cognitive tasks. We also reviewed literature regarding the effects of rTMS on cognitive function in AD.

Results:

A total of 12 patients were enrolled, eight of whom tolerated the fMRI. Improvement was seen in Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination tests of verbal and non-verbal agility 4 weeks post-treatment. The fMRI analysis showed trends for increased activation during cognitive performance tasks immediately after and at 4 weeks post-treatment. Our literature review revealed several double-blind, sham-controlled studies, all showing sustained improvement in cognition of AD patients with rTMS.

Conclusions:

There was improvement in aspects of language after four rTMS treatments, sustained a month after treatment cessation. Our results are consistent with other studies and standardization of treatment protocols using functional imaging may be of benefit.
Cystic Adventitial Disease of the Common Femoral Vessels
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Lun Yu , Jiang Han , Gang Qingwei , Duan Zhiquan , Xin Shijie , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2014

Cystic adventitial disease (CAD) is a rare vascular disorder that is most seen in the popliteal artery. Only a small number of cases involved in femoral artery or vein have been reported and it becomes more difficult to be recognized preoperatively, especially when the femoral artery or vein is affected. We presented 2 cases of CAD affecting the femoral artery or vein, all of which received the “circumferential removal of the adventitia” with promising results. The presentation, investigation, and treatment of CAD were discussed.