bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Campath-1 (CD52) as Novel Drug Target in Neoplastic Stem Cells in 5q-Patients with MDS and AML
Authors: Blatt Katharina , Herrmann Harald , Hoermann Gregor , Willmann Michael , Cerny-Reiterer Sabine , Sadovnik Irina , Herndlhofer Susanne , Streubel Berthold , Rabitsch Werner , Sperr Wolfgang R. , Mayerhofer Matthias , Rülicke Thomas , Valent Peter
Published: May 2014

Purpose: The CD52-targeted antibody alemtuzumab induces major clinical responses in a group of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The mechanism underlying this drug effect remains unknown.

Experimental Design: We asked whether neoplastic stem cells (NSC) in patients with MDS (n = 29) or acute myelogenous leukemia (AML; n = 62) express CD52.

Results: As assessed by flow cytometry, CD52 was found to be expressed on NSC-enriched CD34+/CD38− cells in 8/11 patients with MDS and isolated del(5q). In most other patients with MDS, CD52 was weakly expressed or not detectable on NSC. In AML, CD34+/CD38− cells displayed CD52 in 23/62 patients, including four with complex karyotype and del(5q) and one with del(5q) and t(1;17;X). In quantitative PCR (qPCR) analyses, purified NSC obtained from del(5q) patients expressed CD52 mRNA. We were also able to show that CD52 mRNA levels correlate with EVI1 expression and that NRAS induces the expression of CD52 in AML cells. The CD52-targeting drug alemtuzumab, was found to induce complement-dependent lysis of CD34+/CD38−/CD52+ NSC, but did not induce lysis in CD52− NSC. Alemtuzumab also suppressed engraftment of CD52+ NSC in NSG mice. Finally, CD52 expression on NSC was found to correlate with a poor survival in patients with MDS and AML.

Conclusions: The cell surface target Campath-1 (CD52) is expressed on NSC in a group of patients with MDS and AML. CD52 is a novel prognostic NSC marker and a potential NSC target in a subset of patients with MDS and AML, which may have clinical implications and may explain clinical effects produced by alemtuzumab in these patients. Clin Cancer Res; 20(13); 3589–602. ©2014 AACR.
Advanced Age Impairs Cardioprotective Function of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation from Patients to Myocardially Infarcted Rats
Authors: Liu Yu , Liu Tao , Han Jinsong , Yang Zhonglu , Xue Xiaodong , Jiang Hui , Wang Huishan
Published: May 2014

Objectives: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have limited clinical therapeutic effects in older myocardial infarction (MI) patients. Thus, whether younger MSCs might confer greater protection is worth investigating. Methods: Human MSCs (hMSCs) were isolated before coronary artery bypass graft surgery and growth characteristics of hMSCs at passage 3 were observed. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Bcl-2 mRNA and protein expression from hMSCs were measured. In vivo, 45 adult male rats with MI were randomized to receive one of three treatments: old hMSCs, young hMSCs or culture medium (control) transplanted into infarcted myocardium. Echocardiography, TUNEL, immunohistochemistry and Western blot were used to assess results. Results: hMSC proliferation in the old group was significantly lower than the young group. VEGF decreased 35% and Bcl-2 decreased more than 60% at the mRNA level; VEGF and Bcl-2 protein were decreased in the old versus the young group. hMSC transplantation may improve cardiac function, but MSC source may affect therapeutic efficacy. Similar data were obtained from TUNEL, immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Conclusion: Transplantation of hMSCs improves heart function, but proliferative ability and myocardial protection decrease with older MSCs, likely due to differences between VEGF and Bcl-2 expression and reduced anti-apoptosis.
Heart Failure With Recovered Ejection Fraction
Authors: Basuray Anupam , French Benjamin , Ky Bonnie , Vorovich Esther , Olt Caroline , Sweitzer Nancy K. , Cappola Thomas P. , Fang James C.
Published: May 2014

Background—

We hypothesized that patients with heart failure (HF) who recover left ventricular function (HF-Recovered) have a distinct clinical phenotype, biology, and prognosis compared with patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HF-REF) and those with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HF-PEF).

Methods and Results—

The Penn Heart Failure Study (PHFS) is a prospective cohort of 1821 chronic HF patients recruited from tertiary HF clinics. Participants were divided into 3 categories based on echocardiograms: HF-REF if EF was <50%, HF-PEF if EF was consistently ≥50%, and HF-Recovered if EF on enrollment in PHFS was ≥50% but prior EF was <50%. A significant portion of HF-Recovered patients had an abnormal biomarker profile at baseline, including 44% with detectable troponin I, although in comparison, median levels of brain natriuretic factor, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor-1, troponin I, and creatinine were greater in HF-REF and HF-PEF patients. In unadjusted Cox models over a maximum follow-up of 8.9 years, the hazard ratio for death, transplantation, or ventricular assist device placement in HF-REF patients was 4.1 (95% confidence interval, 2.4–6.8;
P
<0.001) and in HF-PEF patients was 2.3 (95% confidence interval, 1.2–4.5;
P
=0.013) compared with HF-Recovered patients. The unadjusted hazard ratio for cardiac hospitalization in HF-REF patients was 2.0 (95% confidence interval, 1.5–2.7;
P
<0.001) and in HF-PEF patients was 1.3 (95% confidence interval, 0.90–2.0;
P
=0.15) compared with HF-Recovered patients. Results were similar in adjusted models.

Conclusions—

HF-Recovered is associated with a better biomarker profile and event-free survival than HF-REF and HF-PEF. However, these patients still have abnormalities in biomarkers and experience a significant number of HF hospitalizations, suggesting persistent HF risk.
Mediterranean Diet Reduces 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure, Blood Glucose, and Lipids
Authors: Doménech Mónica , Roman Pilar , Lapetra José , García de la Corte Francisco J. , Sala-Vila Aleix , de la Torre Rafael , Corella Dolores , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Ruiz-Gutiérrez Valentina , Lamuela-Raventós Rosa-María , Toledo Estefania , Estruch Ramón , Coca Antonio , Ros Emilio
Published: May 2014

The PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea (PREDIMED) trial showed that Mediterranean diets (MedDiets) supplemented with either extravirgin olive oil or nuts reduced cardiovascular events, particularly stroke, compared with a control, lower fat diet. The mechanisms of cardiovascular protection remain unclear. We evaluated the 1-year effects of supplemented MedDiets on 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (BP), blood glucose, and lipids. Randomized, parallel-design, controlled trial was conducted in 2 PREDIMED sites. Diets were ad libitum, and no advice on increasing physical activity or reducing sodium intake was given. Participants were 235 subjects (56.5% women; mean age, 66.5 years) at high cardiovascular risk (85.4% with hypertension). Adjusted changes from baseline in mean systolic BP were −2.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], −4.0 to −0.5) mm Hg and −2.6 (95% CI, −4.3 to −0.9) mm Hg in the MedDiets with olive oil and the MedDiets with nuts, respectively, and 1.7 (95% CI, −0.1 to 3.5) mm Hg in the control group (
P
<0.001). Respective changes in mean diastolic BP were −1.2 (95% CI, −2.2 to −0.2), −1.2 (95% CI, −2.2 to −0.2), and 0.7 (95% CI, −0.4 to 1.7) mm Hg (
P
=0.017). Daytime and nighttime BP followed similar patterns. Mean changes from baseline in fasting blood glucose were −6.1, −4.6, and 3.5 mg/dL (
P
=0.016) in the MedDiets with olive oil, MedDiets with nuts, and control diet, respectively; those of total cholesterol were −11.3, −13.6, and −4.4 mg/dL (
P
=0.043), respectively. In high-risk individuals, most with treated hypertension, MedDiets supplemented with extravirgin olive oil or nuts reduced 24-hour ambulatory BP, total cholesterol, and fasting glucose.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN35739639.
The Subthalamic Nucleus Contributes to Post-error Slowing
Authors: Cavanagh James F. , Sanguinetti Joseph L. , Allen John J. B. , Sherman Scott J. , Frank Michael J.
Published: May 2014

pFC is proposed to implement cognitive control via directed “top–down” influence over behavior. But how is this feat achieved? The virtue of such a descriptive model is contingent on a mechanistic understanding of how motor execution is altered in specific circumstances. In this report, we provide evidence that the well-known phenomenon of slowed RTs following mistakes (post-error slowing) is directly influenced by the degree of subthalamic nucleus (STN) activity. The STN is proposed to act as a brake on motor execution following conflict or errors, buying time so a more cautious response can be made on the next trial. STN local field potentials from nine Parkinson disease patients undergoing deep brain stimulation surgery were recorded while they performed a response conflict task. In a 2.5- to 5-Hz frequency range previously associated with conflict and error processing, the degree phase consistency preceding the response was associated with increasingly slower RTs specifically following errors. These findings provide compelling evidence that post-error slowing is in part mediated by a corticosubthalamic “hyperdirect” pathway for increased response caution.
Aging Affects the Interaction between Attentional Control and Source Memory: An fMRI Study
Authors: Dulas Michael R. , Duarte Audrey
Published: May 2014

Age-related source memory impairments may be due, at least in part, to deficits in executive processes mediated by the PFC at both study and test. Behavioral work suggests that providing environmental support at encoding, such as directing attention toward item–source associations, may improve source memory and reduce age-related deficits in the recruitment of these executive processes. The present fMRI study investigated the effects of directed attention and aging on source memory encoding and retrieval. At study, participants were shown pictures of objects. They were either asked to attend to the objects and their color (source) or to their size. At test, participants determined if objects were seen before, and if so, whether they were the same color as previously. Behavioral results showed that direction of attention improved source memory for both groups; however, age-related deficits persisted. fMRI results revealed that, across groups, direction of attention facilitated medial temporal lobe-mediated contextual binding processes during study and attenuated right PFC postretrieval monitoring effects at test. However, persistent age-related source memory deficits may be related to increased recruitment of medial anterior PFC during encoding, indicative of self-referential processing, as well as underrecruitment of lateral anterior PFC-mediated relational processes. Taken together, this study suggests that, even when supported, older adults may fail to selectively encode goal-relevant contextual details supporting source memory performance.
Reappraisal of Dendroceros cucullatus (Dendrocerotaceae, Anthocerotophyta)
Authors: CHANTANAORRAPINT SAHUT , PENG TAO , ZHU RUI-LIANG
Published: May 2014

Dendroceros is an epiphytic or epiphyllous genus within Anthocerotophyta, with about 48 extremely specialised species in having endosporic germination (Villarreal et al. 2010; Garcia et al. 2012). Dendroceros difficilis was originally described by Stephani (1917: 1009), based on a collection made by V. Schiffner from Java, Indonesia. Hasegawa (1980) reduced a little-known species D. cucullatus Stephani (1923: 429) from the Philippines, to its synonym. An examination of the holotypes of both species, however, reveals that D. cucullatus is quite different from D. difficilis in thallus margin, structure of costa and epidermal cells of capsule. Dendroceros cucullatus is thus reinstated as a separate species. Based on Schuster’s (1987) treatment, these two species belong to subgenus Apoceros Schuster (1987: 195) based on the cavernous costa in both. Dendroceros difficilis has been described and illustrated by Hasegawa (1980) and Piippo (1993). The following description of D. cucullatus is based on the holotype kept in Geneva Herbarium (G) and recently collections from Thailand.
A new cauliflorous white-flowered species of Ouratea (Ochnaceae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: FRAGA CLAUDIO NICOLETTI DE , SAAVEDRA MARIANA MACHADO
Published: May 2014

The new species Ouratea cauliflorais described, illustrated, and comments on its ecology, geographical distribution, and conservation status are provided. This species is morphologically similar to O. verticillata, but can be easily distinguished by its white flowers and the inflorescences cauliflorous or emerging from short and patent branches on the stem. The new species is endemic to a single locality in the central region of Espírito Santo, in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, and according to the criteria of the IUCN Red List of endangered plant species, it is regarded as “vulnerable”.
From Phenotype to Genotype
Authors: Slavkin H.C.
Published: May 2014

The progress in phenotype descriptions, measurements, and analyses has been remarkable in the last 50 years. Biomarkers (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, hormones, various RNAs and cDNAs, microarrays) have been discovered and correlated with diseases and disorders, as well as physiological responses to disease, injury, stress, within blood, urine, and saliva. Three-dimensional digital imaging advanced how we “see” and utilize phenotypes toward diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. In each example, scientific discovery led to inform clinical health care. In tandem, genetics evolved from Mendelian inheritance (single gene mutations) to include Complex Human Diseases (multiple gene-gene and gene-environment interactions). In addition, epigenetics blossomed with new insights about gene modifiers (e.g., histone and non-histone chromosomal protein methylation, acetylation, sulfation, phosphorylation). We are now at the beginning of a new era using human and microbial whole-genome sequencing to make significant healthcare decisions as to risk, stratification of patients, diagnosis, treatments, and outcomes. Are we as clinicians, scientists, and educators prepared to expand our scope of practice, knowledge base, integration into primary health care (medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and allied health science professions), and clinical approaches to craniofacial-oral-dental health care? The time is now.
Muslim Tourist Perceived Value in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry
Authors: Eid Riyad , El-Gohary Hatem
Published: May 2014

Perceived value is a subjective and dynamic construct that varies among different customers and cultures. Although perceived customer value has been studied by many researchers, no research has been done into the measurement of Muslim Tourist Perceived Value (MTPV) where Muslim tourist evaluates both traditional and religious aspects of value. By means of a multidimensional procedure, the authors developed a scale of measurement of MTPV through 24 items grouped into six dimensions: quality, price, emotional, social, Islamic physical attributes, and Islamic nonphysical attributes. The importance of the proposed constructs was theoretically justified. Using a sample of 537 Muslim tourists, the constructs were tested and validated. The results supply tourism companies with a number of operative factors that may be essential if they are to remain competitive in the dynamic marketplace. This study is probably the first to provide an integrative perspective of MTPV constructs in the hospitality and tourism industry.
“A Foundation for Something Bigger”
Authors: Schnee Emily
Published: May 2014

This longitudinal, qualitative study explores developmental English students’ experience of remediation in the context of a first-semester learning community (LC). Conducted at an urban community college in the Northeast, data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted over a 3-year period with a cohort of 15 students who were placed into a first-semester LC that linked the lowest level of developmental English with Introduction to Psychology and a student development course. Findings shed light on students’ changing perceptions of their placement in remedial English, their insights into LC participation, and reveal implications for community college research and practice. Developmental students’ experiences, voices, and perspectives are the focus of this study and are analyzed in the context of the highly contentious debate over college remediation.
Facing the Closed Door
Authors: Neault Lynn Ceresino , Piland William E.
Published: May 2014

Lower division preparation for the university has been an important mission of community colleges since their inception, creating an essential pathway to baccalaureate degree attainment for many students who may not have access to higher education. The transfer pathway is complex and often difficult for students to navigate. This study examined the decisions students make after being denied transfer admission to a public university and the extent to which the difficulty with transfer is rooted in insufficient capacity to meet the growing demand for postsecondary education at many public universities in California.
A Comparison of Screening Instruments
Authors: King Kathleen R. , Reschly Amy L.
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare two behavior screening instruments—the Behavioral and Emotional Screening System and the Behavior Screening Checklist. The sample consisted of 492 elementary school children from the southeastern United States. The psychometric properties of the screening instruments were evaluated in terms of intra-rater agreement, concurrent validity, and predictive validity of academic and behavioral outcomes. Results revealed that both screeners were significantly correlated with behavioral and academic variables. Consumers of screening instruments are encouraged to select an instrument that has sound psychometric properties and is practical for use in applied settingsC.
Transfeminist psychology
Authors: Yost Megan R , Smith T Evan
Published: May 2014

This special issue showcases feminist psychological work on the experiences of transgender-identified people as well as social structures (governmental, social, and academic) that influence trans people's lives. Empirical papers within this special issue consider judgments of trans legitimacy in the media, government regulation of sex designation, and the familial and friend relationships of trans people. Point of View and Reflection pieces grapple with issues that are crucial for feminist psychologists to consider: choosing research topics, methods, and clinical practices that are identity-affirming and foreground the well-being of participants and trans populations. The introduction closes by suggesting multiple directions for future research.
Every reader his book – every book its reader? Notions on readers’ advisory and audience development in Danish public libraries
Authors: Kann-Rasmussen Nanna , Balling Gitte
Published: May 2014

Collections are no longer the main attraction in libraries, and libraries are working to find new paths to tread. One strategy is to focus on reading and literature in new and surprising ways. The aim of this article is to enrich an understanding of activities situated in the span between readers’ advisory and audience development. This is achieved through an analysis of opinions and reflections expressed by 13 managers and librarians in all six county libraries in Denmark. The interviews are analysed through the model which merges three concepts: cultural policy, new public management and professional logics. Our findings show that Danish librarians’ views on readers’ advisory and audience development strike a balance between the experience and empowerment rationales with a prevailing focus on users. A user orientation and focus on user experiences have created a situation wherein the notions of passion, commitment, enthusiasm become central to the work of librarians who champion and manage these activities. However, this strategy has limitations related to the choice of content and intended user groups. Audience development, founded on dedication and experience, tends to cater for users who look and think like librarians.
Effect of Dorsal Plate Positioning on Dorsiflexion Angle in Arthrodesis of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint
Authors: Lewis Jesse T. , Hanselman Andrew E. , Lalli Trapper A. J. , Daigre Justin L. , Santrock Robert D.
Published: May 2014

Background:

The relationship between dorsal plate positioning and final dorsiflexion angle after first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint fusion has not been well established. The main purpose of this study was to investigate whether changes in dorsal plate positioning along the longitudinal axis affect fusion dorsiflexion angle, as excessive dorsiflexion angles can lead to poor clinical results.

Methods:

Ten cadaver foot specimens were randomly assigned to 2 groups for first MTP joint fusion: 1 group used a straight plate, and the other group used a 10-degree precontoured plate. After routine preparation, the plates were placed in an “ideal” position based on clinical and radiological examination. The plates were then moved proximally 3 mm and 6 mm from the initial site, with repeat imaging completed at each position. The radiological dorsiflexion angle was determined for each position, and the results were assessed.

Results:

Placement of both straight and precontoured plates at positions more proximal from the initial position led to significant increases in dorsiflexion angles ( P = .04), although the percentage change was larger in the precontoured plate group ( P = .01). While placement of the plate 3 mm proximal from the perceived “ideal” position did increase the dorsiflexion angle, the percentage of specimens with dorsiflexion angles in the suggested optimal range changed minimally. Positioning at 6 mm from the starting point, however, led to significantly increased dorsiflexion angles for both plates ( P = .004).

Conclusion:

Positioning the dorsal plate at more proximal locations leads to increasing dorsiflexion angles. Precontoured plates are more likely to lead to excessive dorsiflexion compared with straight plates regardless of plate position.

Clinical Relevance:

Fusion at excessive dorsiflexion angles can be minimized with appropriate selection and proper positioning of the dorsal fusion plate along the longitudinal axis.
Outcomes in Neurosurgical Patients Who Develop Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Cote Lauren P. , Greenberg Steven , Caprini Joseph A. , Stone James , Arcelus Juan I. , López-Jiménez Luciano , Rosa Vladimir , Schellong Sebastian , Monreal Manuel
Published: May 2014

Objectives:

Registro Informatizado de Enfermedad TromboEmbólica (RIETE) database was used to investigate whether neurosurgical patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) were more likely to die of bleeding or VTE and the influence of anticoagulation on these outcomes.

Methods:

Clinical characteristics, treatment details, and 3-month outcomes were assessed in those who developed VTE after neurosurgery.

Results:

Of 40 663 patients enrolled, 392 (0.96%) had VTE in less than 60 days after neurosurgery. Most patients in the cohort (89%) received initial therapy with low-molecular-weight heparin, (33% received subtherapeutic doses). In the first week, 10 (2.6%) patients died (8 with pulmonary embolism [PE], no bleeding deaths; P = .005). After the first week, 20 (5.1%) patients died (2 with fatal bleeding, none from PE). Overall, this cohort was more likely to develop a fatal PE than a fatal bleed (8 vs 2 deaths, P = .058).

Conclusions:

Neurosurgical patients developing VTE were more likely to die from PE than from bleeding in the first week, despite anticoagulation.
The Impact of the “Village” Model on Health, Well-Being, Service Access, and Social Engagement of Older Adults
Authors: Graham Carrie L. , Scharlach Andrew E. , Price Wolf Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Background. Villages represent an emerging consumer-driven social support model that aims to enhance the social engagement, independence, and well-being of community-dwelling seniors through a combination of social activities, volunteer opportunities, service referral, and direct assistance. This study aimed to assess the perceived impact of Village membership on factors associated with the likelihood of aging in place. Additionally, the research examines the characteristics and service use of members who benefit the most. Method. Perceived impacts of Village membership in the areas of social engagement, service access, health and well-being, and self-efficacy for maintaining independence were assessed through a survey of 282 active Village members from five sites in California. Bivariate and multivariate analyses examined associations between member characteristics, volunteerism, service use, and self-reported impacts. Results. Villages have the strongest impact in the area of promoting social engagement and facilitating access to services. Three quarters of the participants report that the Village increases their ability to age in place. Positive impacts were associated with level of Village involvement, but less likely among members who had worse self-reported health. Conclusion. Villages represent a promising new model designed to support community-dwelling seniors with a number of positive impacts that may reduce social isolation, improve well-being, and increase confidence aging in place. Villages appear to have the greatest benefit for members who are most involved and fewer positive impacts for members in poor health, prompting questions about the long-term effectiveness of the Village model in helping more frail seniors to age in place.
Assessment of major adverse cardiovascular events and ischemic stroke with coronary computed tomography angiography based upon angiographic diagnosis in a high-volume single center
Authors: Lin Charles K , McDonough Ryan J , Prentice Ryan L , Thomas Dustin M , Steel Kevin E , Rubal Bernard J , Shry Eric A , Villines Todd C , Hulten Edward A , Slim Ahmad M
Published: May 2014

Background:

Patient prognosis has been shown to directly correlate with the severity of coronary artery disease diagnosed by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Although the presence of coronary artery calcium has been associated with increased incidence of ischemic stroke, there are no data on the incidence of ischemic stroke based upon the severity of coronary artery disease by CCTA. Therefore, we sought to investigate the rate of major adverse cardiovascular events, including ischemic stroke, based upon the severity of coronary artery disease by CCTA over a 6-year period in a high-volume single military center.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective chart review of all CCTA studies to evaluate the incidence of all-cause mortality, non-fatal myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and late revascularization (>90 days following CCTA) from January 2005 until July 2012. We reviewed 1518 CCTA reports, dividing patients into groups with obstructive (≥50% stenosis), non-obstructive (<50% stenosis), and no coronary artery disease (no angiographic disease). Subsequent major adverse cardiovascular events data (incidence of all-cause mortality, ischemic stroke, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and late revascularization) were obtained.

Results:

Over a review period of 6 years with a resultant median follow-up period of 22 months (interquartile range = 13–34 months), the major adverse cardiovascular events rate was significantly higher with obstructive coronary artery disease compared to both non-obstructive coronary artery disease and no coronary artery disease (8.9% vs 0.7%, p < 0.001; 8.9% vs 1.6%, p < 0.001). The incidence of ischemic stroke alone was also significantly higher in those with obstructive coronary artery disease compared to those with no coronary artery disease (3.8% vs 0.4%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Being free of disease on CCTA was associated with excellent cardiovascular prognosis. Obstructive coronary artery disease was associated with a significantly increased incidence of ischemic stroke. There was also a direct correlation between the severity of coronary artery disease on CCTA and cardiovascular prognosis over the follow-up period of 24 months.
The Students versus Larry Flynt: Bringing Popular Culture into the Law School
Authors: Sheikh Danish
Published: May 2014

This article is anchored in two narratives: first, that of law and popular culture scholarship and second, of the Indian law school. Starting with law and popular culture as a ‘ite’ of legal scholarship: this has often been the cast-off step child when it comes to the Indian law school. Two reasons for this—one, the subject itself, the difficulty that many academic circles have with taking it ‘seriously’, of keeping it on par with other more conventional areas of legal study and second, the law school’s resistance to change.

As for the Indian law school: Two decades from the establishment of the first national law school, there are rising doubts on the success of this experiment and whatever impact it may have had on the legal education system in India as a whole. A closer look at these institutions show that the veneer of adequate infrastructure cloaks an increasingly decaying framework. Whether it be the myopic aim (‘increasing the quality of the bar’), which itself has clearly failed, or issues of curriculum, methodology and evaluation techniques, the law school in India has fallen into an epistemic trap it is struggling to get out of.

It is at this juncture that I believe a focus on law and popular culture scholarship and pedagogic techniques at the Indian law school may well be one way out. Ranging from the need for making our legal curricula multidisciplinary, creative and flexible, to understanding how the very idea of focusing on the study of this area will counter the Indian law school’s troubling ‘resistance to change’, I make a case for inculcating the study of law and popular culture at multiple levels within the law school framework. I back this up with instances of just how pop culture can be successfully utilized to make for a more interesting learning experience for everyone concerned. My own experiences as visiting faculty on media law at two institutions have been invaluable in grounding this article in experiential reality.
Book Review: Clinical Legal Education: Active Learning in Your Law School
Authors: Lanham Emily , Sarker Shuvro Prosun
Published: May 2014

Clinical Legal Education: Active Learning in Your Law School. By Hugh Brayne, Nigel Duncan & Richard Grimes. Blackstone Press Series, 1998. Pp., US$ 96.84, ISBN: 1854318314, 97818543183121
Generalized α-ψ-contractive type mappings of integral type and related fixed point theorems
Authors: Karapınar Erdal , Shahi Priya , Tas Kenan
Published: May 2014

The aim of this paper is to introduce two classes of generalized α-ψ-contractive type mappings of integral type and to analyze the existence of fixed points for these mappings in complete metric spaces. Our results are improved versions of a multitude of relevant fixed point theorems of the existing literature.

MSC:54H25, 47H10, 54E50.
The models of bilevel programming with lower level second-order cone programs
Authors: Chi Xiaoni , Wan Zhongping , Hao Zijun
Published: May 2014

Robust optimization is an effective method for dealing with the optimization problems under uncertainty. When there is uncertainty in the lower level optimization problem of a bilevel programming, it can be formulated by a robust optimization method as a bilevel programming problem with lower level second-order cone program (SOCBLP). In this paper, we present the mathematical models of the SOCBLP, and we give some basic concepts, such as constraint region, inducible region, and optimal solution. It is illustrated that the SOCBLP is generally a nonconvex and nondifferentiable optimization problem, whose feasible set may be not connected in some cases and the constraint region is generally not polyhedral. Finally under suitable conditions we propose the optimality conditions for several models of the SOCBLP in the optimistic case.

MSC:90C30.
Outcomes following large joint arthroplasty: does socio-economic status matter?
Authors: Dowsey Michelle M , Nikpour Mandana , Choong Peter FM
Published: May 2014

Background

We sought to determine whether socio-economic status (SES) is an independent predictor of outcome following total knee (TKR) and hip (THR) replacement in Australians.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, we included patients undergoing TKR and THR in a public hospital in whom baseline and 12-month follow-up data were available. SES was determined using the Australian Bureau of Statistics ‘Index of Relative Advantage and Disadvantage’. Other independent variables included patients’ demographics, comorbidities and procedure-related variables. Outcome measures were the International Knee Society Score and Harris Hip Score pain and function subscales, and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) physical and mental component scores.

Results

Among 1,016 patients undergoing TKR and 835 patients undergoing THR, in multiple regression analysis, SES score was not independently associated with pain and functional outcomes. Female sex, older age, being a non-English speaker, higher body mass index and presence of comorbidities were associated with greater post-operative pain and poorer functional outcomes following arthroplasty. Better baseline function, physical and mental health, and lower baseline level of pain were associated with better outcomes at 12 months. In univariate analysis, for TKR, the improvement in SF-12 mental health score post arthroplasty was greater in patients of lower SES (3.8 ± 12.9 versus 1.5 ± 12.2, p = 0.008), with a statistically significant inverse association between SES score and post-operative SF-12 mental health score in linear regression analysis (coefficient−0.28, 95% CI: −0.52 to −0.04, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

When adjustments are made for other covariates, SES is not an independent predictor of pain and functional outcome following large joint arthroplasty in Australian patients. However, relative to baseline, patients in lower socioeconomic groups are likely to have greater mental health benefits with TKR than more privileged patients. Large joint arthroplasty should be made accessible to patients of all SES.
Oscillation and nonoscillation for second order neutral dynamic equations with positive and negative coefficients on time scales
Authors: Deng Xun-Huan , Wang Qi-Ru , Agarwal Ravi P
Published: May 2014

We investigate oscillation and nonoscillation of certain second order neutral dynamic equations with positive and negative coefficients. We apply the results from the theory of lower and upper solutions for related dynamic equations along with some additional estimates on positive solutions and use different techniques to obtain some oscillatory theorems. Also, we apply Kranoselskii’s fixed point theorem to obtain nonoscillatory results and then give two sufficient and necessary conditions for the equations to be oscillatory. Some interesting examples are given to illustrate the versatility of our results.
Some properties of Wright-type generalized hypergeometric function via fractional calculus
Authors: Rao Snehal B , Prajapati Jyotindra C , Patel Amitkumar D , Shukla Ajay K
Published: May 2014

This paper is devoted to the study of a Wright-type hypergeometric function (Virchenko, Kalla and Al-Zamel in Integral Transforms Spec. Funct. 12(1):89-100, 2001) by using a Riemann-Liouville type fractional integral, a differential operator and Lebesgue measurable real or complex-valued functions. The results obtained are useful in the theory of special functions where the Wright function occurs naturally.

MSC: 33C20, 33E20, 26A33, 26A99.
Normality of meromorphic functions and differential polynomials share values
Authors: Yuan Wenjun , Lai Jinchun , Huang Zifeng , Liu Zhi
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we discuss the normality of meromorphic functions which involves differential polynomial sharing values. We obtain two results: Let k be a positive integer, b (≠0) be a complex number, and

h
(
z
)

be a polynomial with degree at least 2, and

H
(
f
,

f
′

,
…
,

f

(
k
)

)

be a differential polynomial with

Γ
γ

|
H

<
k
+
1

. Let ℱ be a family of meromorphic functions defined in D, all of whose zeros have multiplicity at least

k
+
1

. If

h
(
z
)
−
1

has at least two distinct zeros,

h
(

f

(
k
)

)
+
H
(
f
,

f
′

,
…
,

f

(
k
)

)
−
1

has at most one distinct zero in D for each

f
∈
F

, then ℱ is normal in D. If

h
(
z
)
−
b

has at least two distinct zeros and for each pair of functions f and g in ℱ,

h
(

f

(
k
)

)
+
H
(
f
,

f
′

,
…
,

f

(
k
)

)

and

h
(

g

(
k
)

)
+
H
(
g
,

g
′

,
…
,

g

(
k
)

)

share b in D, then ℱ is normal in D, too. Two examples show that a condition in our results is necessary and our results improve Fang and Hong’s, and Zeng’s corresponding results.

MSC:30D35, 34A05.
Sex difference in age and performance in elite Swiss freestyle swimmers competing from 50 m to 1,500 m
Authors: Rüst Christoph Alexander , Rosemann Thomas , Knechtle Beat
Published: May 2014

Recent studies reported different ages for peak freestyle swimming performances for 50 m and 1,500 m. The aims of the present study were (i) to determine the age of peak freestyle swimming speed for distances including 50 m, 100 m, 200 m, 400 m, 800 m, and 1,500 m and to (ii) analyze the sex difference in peak freestyle swimming speed for all distances between 50 m and 1,500 m for elite female and male swimmers competing at national level. Data from the ‘Swiss Swimming Federation’ between 2006 and 2010 from 10,405 men and 9,552 women were analyzed using regression analyses and analyses of variance (ANOVA). Women achieved peak freestyle swimming speed at ~20–21 years from 50 m to 400 m, at ~24–25 years in 1,500 m and at ~25–27 years in 800 m. In men, the age of peak freestyle swimming speed varied between ~22–23 years and ~25–27 years for 50 m to 1,500 m. Between the age of 10 and 29 years, the sex difference in freestyle swimming speed increased from 2.2 ± 0.4% to 19.0 ± 6.7% in 50 m (r

2
 = 0.87, P < 0.001), from 2.4 ± 0.7% to 10.8 ± 2.8% in 100 m (r

2
 = 0.67, P = 0.004) and from 3.6 ± 1.9% to 10.2 ± 3.4% in 200 m (r

2
 = 0.60, P = 0.008). In 400 m (r

2
 = 0.24), 800 m (r

2
 = 0.39) and 1,500 m (r

2
 = 0.34), the sex difference showed no changes (P > 0.05) with 6.9 ± 3.0%, 5.8 ± 3.5%, and 9.7 ± 8.6%, respectively. The sex difference in freestyle swimming speed showed no change with increasing race distance (r

2
 = 0.12, P > 0.05). To summarize, the age of peak freestyle swimming speed increased for women with the length of the race distance from 50 m to 200 m, but not from 400 m to 1,500 m. For men, the age of peak freestyle swimming speed varied between ~22–23 years and ~25–27 years from 50 m to 1,500 m. The sex difference in freestyle swimming speed of 9.1 ± 2.5% showed no change with increasing race distance. Future studies need to confirm these findings in elite swimmers competing at international level such as the World Championships and the Olympic Games.
Breast cancer brain metastases: evidence for neuronal-like adaptation in a ‘breast-to-brain’ transition?
Authors: Van Swearingen Amanda ED , Siegel Marni B , Anders Carey K
Published: May 2014

Brain metastases remain a significant challenge in the treatment of breast cancer patients due to the unique environment posed by the central nervous system. A better understanding of the biology of breast cancer cells that have metastasized to the brain is required to develop improved therapies. A recent Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences article demonstrates that breast cancer cells in the brain microenvironment express γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-related genes, enabling them to utilize GABA as an oncometabolite, thus gaining a proliferative advantage. In this viewpoint, we highlight these findings and their potential impact on the treatment of breast cancer brain metastases.
Early fluid loading in acute respiratory distress syndrome with septic shock deteriorates lung aeration without impairing arterial oxygenation: a lung ultrasound observational study
Authors: Caltabeloti Fabiola Prior , Monsel Antoine , Arbelot Charlotte , Brisson Hélène , Lu Qin , Gu Wen-Jie , Zhou Guang-Ju , C Auler José O , Rouby Jean-Jacques
Published: May 2014

Introduction

The study was designed to assess the impact of fluid loading on lung aeration, oxygenation and hemodynamics in patients with septic shock and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Methods

During a 1-year period, a prospective observational study was performed in 32 patients with septic shock and ARDS. Cardiorespiratory parameters were measured using Swan Ganz (n = 29) or PiCCO catheters (n = 3). Lung aeration and regional pulmonary blood flows were measured using bedside transthoracic ultrasound. Measurements were performed before (T0), at the end of volume expansion (T1) and 40 minutes later (T2), consisting of 1-L of saline over 30 minutes during the first 48 h following onset of septic shock and ARDS.

Results

Lung ultrasound score increased by 23% at T2, from 13 at baseline to 16 (P < 0.001). Cardiac index and cardiac filling pressures increased significantly at T1 (P < 0.001) and returned to control values at T2. The increase in lung ultrasound score was statistically correlated with fluid loading-induced increase in cardiac index and was not associated with increase in pulmonary shunt or regional pulmonary blood flow. At T1, PaO2/FiO2 significantly increased (P < 0.005) from 144 (123 to 198) to 165 (128 to 226) and returned to control values at T2, whereas lung ultrasound score continued to increase.

Conclusions

Early fluid loading transitorily improves hemodynamics and oxygenation and worsens lung aeration. Aeration changes can be detected at the bedside by transthoracic lung ultrasound, which may serve as a safeguard against excessive fluid loading.
Prestack seismic inversion versus neural-network analysis: A case study in the Scarab field offshore Nile Delta, Egypt
Authors: Mohamed Islam A. , El-Mowafy Hamed Z. , Kamel Diaa , Heikal Mohamed
Published: May 2014

In clastic depositional systems such as those encountered in the Nile Delta Basin, simultaneous prestack seismic-amplitude inversion is an effective method for detecting and appraising gas-bearing sandstone reservoirs. However, the method has limitations concerning the requirement of a reliable set of wavelets, suitable wireline logs, and a sufficiently dense initial model. The neural-network analysis method is an alternative technique which sometimes can provide similar or better results and does not require significant volumes of data. Simultaneous prestack inversion was applied over the Scarab field, West Delta Deep Marine concession, offshore Egypt. The field comprises submarine channel-based gas reservoirs that extend laterally over 20 km2. Six wells were analyzed in a rock-physics study prior to performing inversion. Three angle gathers (near: 0–15°; mid: 15–30°; far: 30–45°) were inverted for P-wave impedance (ZP), S-wave impedance (ZS), P-wave velocity (VP), S-wave velocity (VS), VP/VS, and density (ρ) using the prestack inversion method. Neural-network analysis was performed using full-stack seismic data along with well logs in the training stage, followed by cross-validation of results and rendering of VP, VS, VP/VS, and density volumes. The VP/VS volumes produced from the two methods were used to infer water saturation (Sw). Direct comparisons were made between neural-network and prestack inversion results at a blind-well location to assess the relative quality of each method. Results suggest that application of the proposed neural-network method leads to reliable inferences. Hence, using the neural-network method alone or along with the prestack inversion method has a positive impact on reserves growth and increased production.
Improvement of the reservoir characterization of fluvial sandstones with geostatistical inversion in Golfo San Jorge Basin, Argentina
Authors: Vernengo Luis , Czeplowodzki Raúl , Trinchero Eduardo , Sabaté Alberto , Tsybulkina Inna , Morillo Francisco
Published: May 2014

In the Golfo San Jorge Basin, Argentina, the main traditional reservoirs are fluvial sandstones, which are thin and usually fall below seismic tuning frequency. The need for an aggressive development of the reserves and the need to open new areas led to a pilot job in a zone of approximately 100 km2, assuming the possibility to go vertically across structural and stratigraphic traps and their combination, using high technology added to the proved workflow. After the carefully traditional seismic structural interpretation of faults and horizons in the area and using seismic attributes, the seismic reservoir characterization was aimed toward the processing and analysis of a seismic geostatistical inversion. Using this technique improved the knowledge of the emplacement, behavior, and occurrence of the reservoir sand bodies, opening new zones and determining development drilling. The method includes geostatistical inversion and its interpretation, results, and improvement of the sequence. Time thickness of the reservoirs, sand probability, and effective-porosity maps for each separate layer were generated and interpreted at the end of the sequence. The results in proposed wells are based on this technique.
Shale-gas reservoir-prediction study in Daanzhai, Eastern Sichuan Basin
Authors: Li Zhongping , Huang Fangyan , He Xinwei , Zhang Wanlong , He Yuting
Published: May 2014

In recent years, the economic viability of large-scale shale-gas exploration and development projects has been impacted directly by improvements in horizontal-well drilling and hydraulic-fracturing technologies. However, results from multiple shale-gas projects indicate that accurate reservoir descriptions and resulting predictions of sweet spots are also crucial to maximize production from those projects. Accurate reservoir description results in the most appropriate placement of well locations and trajectories, hydraulic-fracture design, and reservoir engineering. The successful experience in shale-gas exploration and development outside China can aid in the search for the most favorable geologic characteristics and rock-physical properties and the examination of appropriate well-log interpretation and seismic-reservoir-prediction technologies for a shale-gas study in the eastern area of Sichuan Basin, China. Favorable parameters in a shale-gas reservoir are mid- to high kerogen content, low clay volumes, high brittleness, high effective porosity, and high permeability, along with well-developed microfractures. Of those parameters, mid- to high total organic carbon (TOC) is favorable for shale-gas accumulation, and high brittleness is beneficial to hydraulic-fracture propagation. Hence, the aim is to find sweet spots with high TOC and high brittleness. Starting with petrophysical analyses that combine laboratory measurements, core data, and well logs, a statistical model is used to estimate relative volumes and compositions of TOC and minerals and to establish a qualitative evaluation criterion for shale-gas reservoirs in this area. Petrophysical modeling and rock-property analyses establish the relationship among petrophysical properties (such as TOC, effective porosity, and gas saturation) and elastic properties (such as P-impedance, VP/VS ratio, Poisson's ratio, and Young's modulus) of the formation, which are related to brittleness. Rock-property analysis, prestack simultaneous inversion, and facies-fluid probability-analysis technologies help to predict favorable development zones for the shale-gas reservoir. Finally, the values of brittleness, TOC, and shale-gas lithology volume are combined to predict the sweet spots of the gas shale and to guide subsequent developments.