bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive Relationship between Total Antioxidant Status and Chemokines Observed in Adults
Authors: Li Yanli , Browne Richard W. , Bonner Matthew R. , Deng Furong , Tian Lili , Mu Lina
Published: August 2014

Objective. Human evidence is limited regarding the interaction between oxidative stress biomarkers and chemokines, especially in a population of adults without overt clinical disease. The current study aims to examine the possible relationships of antioxidant and lipid peroxidation markers with several chemokines in adults.Methods. We assessed cross-sectional associations of total antioxidant status (TAS) and two lipid peroxidation markers malondialdehyde (MDA) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) with a suite of serum chemokines, including CXCL-1 (GRO-α), CXCL-8 (IL-8), CXCL-10 (IP-10), CCL-2 (MCP-1), CCL-5 (RANTES), CCL-8 (MCP-2), CCL-11 (Eotaxin-1), and CCL-17 (TARC), among 104 Chinese adults without serious preexisting clinical conditions in Beijing before 2008 Olympics.Results. TAS showed significantly positive correlations with MCP-1 (r=0.15751,P=0.0014), MCP-2 (r=0.3721,P=0.0001), Eotaxin-1 (r=0.39598,P<0.0001), and TARC (r=0.27149,P=0.0053). The positive correlations remained unchanged after controlling for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, and alcohol drinking status. No associations were found between any of the chemokines measured in this study and MDA or TBARS. Similar patterns were observed when the analyses were limited to nonsmokers.Conclusion. Total antioxidant status is positively associated with several chemokines in this adult population.
On a New Iterative Scheme without Memory with Optimal Eighth Order
Authors: Sharifi M. , Karimi Vanani S. , Khaksar Haghani F. , Arab M. , Shateyi S.
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this paper is to derive and discuss a three-step iterative expression for solving nonlinear equations. In fact, we derive a derivative-free form for one of the existing optimal eighth-order methods and preserve its convergence order. Theoretical results will be upheld by numerical experiments.
Numerical Simulation and Response of Stiffened Plates Subjected to Noncontact Underwater Explosion
Authors: Fathallah Elsayed , Qi Hui , Tong Lili , Helal Mahmoud
Published: August 2014

A numerical simulation has been carried out to examine the response of steel plates with different arrangement of stiffeners and subjected to noncontact underwater explosion (UNDEX) with different shock loads. Numerical analysis of the underwater explosion phenomena is implemented in the nonlinear finite element code ABAQUS/Explicit. The aim of this work is to enhance the dynamic response to resist UNDEX. Special emphasis is focused on the evolution of mid-point displacements. Further investigations have been performed to study the effects of including material damping and the rate-dependant material properties at different shock loads. The results indicate that stiffeners configurations and shock loads affect greatly the overall performance of steel plates and sensitive to the materials data. Also, the numerical results can be used to obtain design guidelines of floating structures to enhance resistance of underwater shock damage, since explosive tests are costly and dangerous.
Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester: Consequences of Its Hydrophobicity in the Oxidative Functions and Cytokine Release by Leukocytes
Authors: Paracatu Luana Chiquetto , Faria Carolina Maria Quinello Gomes , Quinello Camila , Rennó Camila , Palmeira Patricia , Zeraik Maria Luiza , da Fonseca Luiz Marcos , Ximenes Valdecir Farias
Published: August 2014

Numerous anti‐inflammatory properties have been attributed to caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), an active component of propolis. NADPH oxidases are multienzymatic complexes involved in many inflammatory diseases. Here, we studied the importance of the CAPE hydrophobicity on cell‐free antioxidant capacity, inhibition of the NADPH oxidase and hypochlorous acid production, and release of TNF‐α and IL‐10 by activated leukocytes. The comparison was made with the related, but less hydrophobic, caffeic and chlorogenic acids. Cell‐free studies such as superoxide anion scavenging assay, triene degradation, and anodic peak potential (Epa) measurements showed that the alterations in the hydrophobicity did not provoke significant changes in the oxidation potential and antiradical potency of the tested compounds. However, only CAPE was able to inhibit the production of superoxide anion by activated leukocytes. The inhibition of the NADPH oxidase resulted in the blockage of production of hypochlorous acid. Similarly, CAPE was the more effective inhibitor of the release of TNF‐α and IL‐10 by Staphylococcus aureus stimulated cells. In conclusion, the presence of the catechol moiety and the higher hydrophobicity were essential for the biological effects. Considering the involvement of NADPH oxidases in the genesis and progression of inflammatory diseases, CAPE should be considered as a promising anti‐inflammatory drug.
On a Subclass of Meromorphic Close-to-Convex Functions
Authors: Li Ming-Liang , Shi Lei , Wang Zhi-Gang
Published: August 2014

The main purpose of this paper is to introduce and investigate a certain subclass of meromorphic close-to-convex functions. Such results as coefficient inequalities, convolution property, inclusion relationship, distortion property, and radius of meromorphic convexity are derived.
A New Method for Feedback on the Quality of Chest Compressions during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: González-Otero Digna M. , Ruiz Jesus , Ruiz de Gauna Sofía , Irusta Unai , Ayala Unai , Alonso Erik
Published: August 2014

Quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) improves through the use of CPR feedback devices. Most feedback devices integrate the acceleration twice to estimate compression depth. However, they use additional sensors or processing techniques to compensate for large displacement drifts caused by integration. This study introduces an accelerometer-based method that avoids integration by using spectral techniques on short duration acceleration intervals. We used a manikin placed on a hard surface, a sternal triaxial accelerometer, and a photoelectric distance sensor (gold standard). Twenty volunteers provided 60 s of continuous compressions to test various rates (80–140 min−1), depths (3–5 cm), and accelerometer misalignment conditions. A total of 320 records with 35312 compressions were analysed. The global root-mean-square errors in rate and depth were below 1.5 min−1and 2 mm for analysis intervals between 2 and 5 s. For 3 s analysis intervals the 95% levels of agreement between the method and the gold standard were within −1.64–1.67 min−1and −1.69–1.72 mm, respectively. Accurate feedback on chest compression rate and depth is feasible applying spectral techniques to the acceleration. The method avoids additional techniques to compensate for the integration displacement drift, improving accuracy, and simplifying current accelerometer-based devices.
Handling Fault Diagnosis Problem of Linear‐Analogue Circuits with Voltage Phasor Measurement
Authors: Gao Xin , Wang HouJun , Liu Zhen
Published: August 2014

This paper proposes a novel method to estimate
the influence of hard‐fault in linear‐analogue circuit system
based on the measurement of voltage phasor with assistant
branch introduced. Furthermore, a new fault diagnosis strategy
based on the voltage phasor modeling is established, and the
tolerance influence on the corresponding voltage measurement
is also discussed. The actual analogue circuit test shows us
that the proposed method is effective and reliable to locate the
accurate fault signature in voltage measurement for the fault
diagnosis. As a matter of fact, it includes both the amplitude and
phase information in a complex value form when the linear‐analogue
circuit is under the AC test. Besides, it can be also
applied to ambiguous groups and the sensitive test‐frequencies
determination in the process of fault diagnosis,while the effectiveness
of multifrequencies test has also been testified through
test‐frequencies sweeping investigation and the maximum error
evaluation of fault component value in the second circuit example.
Assessment of Cardiac Sarcoidosis with Advanced Imaging Modalities
Authors: Orii Makoto , Imanishi Toshio , Akasaka Takashi
Published: August 2014

Sarcoidosis is a chronic systemic disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by the presence of noncaseating epithelioid granulomas, usually in multiple organs. Several studies have shown that sarcoidosis might be the result of an exaggerated granulomatous reaction after exposure to unidentified antigens in genetically susceptible individuals. Cardiac involvement may occur and lead to an adverse outcome: the heart mechanics will be affected and that causes ventricular failure, and the cardiac electrical system will be disrupted and lead to third degree atrioventricular block, malignant ventricular tachycardia, and sudden cardiac death. Thus, early diagnosis and treatment of this potentially devastating disease is critically important. However, sensitive and accurate imaging modalities have not been established. Recent studies have demonstrated the promising potential of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) in the diagnosis and assessment of cardiac sarcoidosis (CS). In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, etiology, histological findings, and clinical features of sarcoidosis. We also introduce advanced imaging including18F-FDG PET and cardiac MRI as more reliable diagnostic modalities for CS.
Using the Neurofibromatosis Tumor Predisposition Syndromes to Understand Normal Nervous System Development
Authors: Garcia Cynthia , Gutmann David H.
Published: August 2014

Development is a tightly regulated process that involves stem cell self-renewal, differentiation, cell-to-cell communication, apoptosis, and blood vessel formation. These coordinated processes ensure that tissues maintain a size and architecture that is appropriate for normal tissue function. As such, tumors arise when cells acquire genetic mutations that allow them to escape the normal growth constraints. In this regard, the study of tumor predisposition syndromes affords a unique platform to better understand normal development and the process by which normal cells transform into cancers. Herein, we review the processes governing normal brain development, discuss how brain cancer represents a disruption of these normal processes, and highlight insights into both normal development and cancer made possible by the study of tumor predisposition syndromes.
OCH Ameliorates Bone Marrow Failure in Mice via Downregulation of T-Bet Expression
Authors: Qiao Xiaohong , Xie Xiaotian , Shi Wei , Tang Jinqing , Shao Yuexia , Li Fuxing
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study is to evaluate the immune mechanism of OCH in the treatment of AA (also named bone marrow failure, BMF) induced in mice. OCH at a dose of 400 μg/kg was injected intraperitoneally (I.P.) prior to the induction of BMF. Our study showed that the incidence of BMF was 100% in BMF group and 13% in OCH treatment group. Significant higher level of IL-4 and lower level of IFN-γwere observed in OCH group than that in BMF group (P<0.05) as well as untreated group over BMF (P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference between OCH and untreated group. Compared with untreated, the expression level of T-bet in OCH and BMF was all significantly higher. However, T-bet expression level was lower in OCH than in BMF. In addition, OCH treatment increased NKT cell fractions of bone marrow and the colonies of CFU-GM. In conclusion, treatment of OCH prior to the induction of BMF could prevent the incidence of BMF possibly through downregulating T-bet expression leading to the transition of immune response from Th1 to Th2, suggesting OCH might be a new therapeutic approach in the treatment of BMF or AA.
Prospect of Stem Cell Conditioned Medium in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Pawitan Jeanne Adiwinata
Published: August 2014

Background.Stem cell-derived conditioned medium has a promising prospect to be produced as pharmaceuticals for regenerative medicine.Objective.To investigate various methods to obtain stem cell-derived conditioned medium (CM) to get an insight into their prospect of application in various diseases.Methods.Systematic review using keywords “stem cell” and “conditioned medium” or “secretome” and “therapy.” Data concerning treated conditions/diseases, type of cell that was cultured, medium and supplements to culture the cells, culture condition, CM processing, growth factors and other secretions that were analyzed, method of application, and outcome were noted, grouped, tabulated, and analyzed.Results.Most of CM using studies showed good results. However, the various CM, even when they were derived from the same kind of cells, were produced by different condition, that is, from different passage, culture medium, and culture condition. The growth factor yields of the various types of cells were available in some studies, and the cell number that was needed to produce CM for one application could be computed.Conclusion.Various stem cell-derived conditioned media were tested on various diseases and mostly showed good results. However, standardized methods of production and validations of their use need to be conducted.
Compositional Simulation on the Flow of Polymeric Solution Alternating CO2 through Heavy Oil Reservoir
Authors: Jeong Moon Sik , Cho Jinhyung , Choi Jinsuk , Lee Ji Ho , Lee Kun Sang
Published: August 2014

Water-alternating-gas (WAG) method provides superior mobility control of CO2 and improves sweep efficiency. However, WAG process has some problems in highly viscous oil reservoir such as gravity overriding and poor mobility ratio. To examine the applicability of carbon dioxide to recover viscous oil from highly heterogeneous reservoirs, this study suggests polymer-alternating-gas (PAG) process. The process involves a combination of polymer flooding and CO2 injection. In this numerical model, high viscosity of oil and high heterogeneity of reservoir are the main challenges. To confirm the effectiveness of PAG process in the model, four processes (waterflooding, continuous CO2 injection, WAG process, and PAG process) are implemented and recovery factor, WOR, and GOR are compared. Simulation results show that PAG method would increase oil recovery over 45% compared with WAG process. The WAG ratio of 2 is found to be the optimum value for maximum oil recovery. The additional oil recovery of 3% through the 2 WAG ratio is achieved over the base case of 1: 1 PAG ratio and 180 days cycle period.
HMGB1 Enhances Immune Suppression by Facilitating the Differentiation and Suppressive Activity of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells
Authors: Parker Katherine H. , Sinha Pratima , Horn Lucas A. , Clements Virginia K. , Yang Huan , Li Jianhua , Tracey Kevin J. , Ostrand-Rosenberg Suzanne
Published: August 2014

Chronic inflammation often precedes malignant transformation and later drives tumor progression. Likewise, subversion of the immune system plays a role in tumor progression, with tumoral immune escape now well recognized as a crucial hallmark of cancer. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are elevated in most individuals with cancer, where their accumulation and suppressive activity are driven by inflammation. Thus, MDSCs may define an element of the pathogenic inflammatory processes that drives immune escape. The secreted alarmin HMGB1 is a proinflammatory partner, inducer, and chaperone for many proinflammatory molecules that MDSCs develop. Therefore, in this study, we examined HMGB1 as a potential regulator of MDSCs. In murine tumor systems, HMGB1 was ubiquitous in the tumor microenvironment, activating the NF-κB signal transduction pathway in MDSCs and regulating their quantity and quality. We found that HMGB1 promotes the development of MDSCs from bone marrow progenitor cells, contributing to their ability to suppress antigen-driven activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Furthermore, HMGB1 increased MDSC-mediated production of IL-10, enhanced crosstalk between MDSCs and macrophages, and facilitated the ability of MDSCs to downregulate expression of the T-cell homing receptor L-selectin. Overall, our results revealed a pivotal role for HMGB1 in the development and cancerous contributions of MDSCs. Cancer Res; 74(20); 5723–33. ©2014 AACR.
Transient SNAIL1 Expression Is Necessary for Metastatic Competence in Breast Cancer
Authors: Tran Hung D. , Luitel Krishna , Kim Michael , Zhang Kun , Longmore Gregory D. , Tran David D.
Published: August 2014

SNAIL1 has been suggested to regulate breast cancer metastasis based on analyses of human breast tumor transcriptomes and experiments using cancer cell lines and xenografts. However, in vivo genetic experimental support for a role for SNAIL1 in breast cancer metastasis that develops in an immunocompetent tumor microenvironment has not been determined. To address this question, we created a genetic SNAIL1 model by coupling an endogenous SNAIL1 reporter with an inducible SNAIL1 transgene. Using multiple genetic models of breast cancer, we demonstrated that endogenous SNAIL1 expression was restricted to primary tumors that ultimately disseminate. SNAIL1 gene deletion either during the premalignant phase or after primary tumors have reached a palpable size blunted metastasis, indicating that late metastasis was the main driver of metastasis and that this was dependent on SNAIL1. Importantly, SNAIL1 expression during breast cancer metastasis was transient and forced transient, but not continuous. SNAIL1 expression in breast tumors was sufficient to increase metastasis. Cancer Res; 74(21); 6330–40. ©2014 AACR.
Notch Signaling Drives Stemness and Tumorigenicity of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Zhiqiang , Da Silva Thiago G. , Jin Ke , Han Xiaoqing , Ranganathan Prathibha , Zhu Xiaoxia , Sanchez-Mejias Avencia , Bai Feng , Li Bin , Fei Dennis Liang , Weaver Kelly , Carpio Rodrigo Vasquez-Del , Moscowitz Anna E. , Koshenkov Vadim P. , Sanchez Lilly , Sparling Lynne , Pei Xin-Hai , Franceschi Dido , Ribeiro Afonso , Robbins David J. , Livingstone Alan S. , Capobianco Anthony J.
Published: August 2014

Esophageal adenocarcinoma ranks sixth in cancer mortality in the world and its incidence has risen dramatically in the Western population over the last decades. Data presented herein strongly suggest that Notch signaling is critical for esophageal adenocarcinoma and underlies resistance to chemotherapy. We present evidence that Notch signaling drives a cancer stem cell phenotype by regulating genes that establish stemness. Using patient-derived xenograft models, we demonstrate that inhibition of Notch by gamma-secretase inhibitors (GSI) is efficacious in downsizing tumor growth. Moreover, we demonstrate that Notch activity in a patient's ultrasound-assisted endoscopic–derived biopsy might predict outcome to chemotherapy. Therefore, this study provides a proof of concept that inhibition of Notch activity will have efficacy in treating esophageal adenocarcinoma, offering a rationale to lay the foundation for a clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of GSI in esophageal adenocarcinoma treatment. Cancer Res; 74(21); 6364–74. ©2014 AACR.
Bromodomain Inhibition in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma—Giving MYC a Brake
Authors: Mottok Anja , Gascoyne Randy D.
Published: August 2014

Bromodomains are conserved protein regions that function as epigenetic readers by recognizing specific histone modifications. The common association of bromodomains with enhancer and super-enhancer regions in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma contributes to its pathogenesis. Bromodomain inhibition reduces tumor growth largely through the disruption of transcriptional networks driven by oncogenic MYC. Clin Cancer Res; 21(1); 4–6. ©2014 AACR.

See related article by Trabucco et al., p. 113
Protective Effects of Astragaloside IV against Ovalbumin-Induced Lung Inflammation Are Regulated/Mediated by T-bet/GATA-3
Authors: Qiu Yu-Ying , Zhu Jin-Xiao , Bian Tao , Gao Fei , Qian Xiu-Feng , Du Qiang , Yuan Min-Yu , Sun Hua , Shi Ling-Zhi , Yu Ming-Hong
Published: August 2014

Bronchial asthma is characterized by chronic lung inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and airway remodelling. Astragaloside IV (3-O-β-D-xylopyranosyl-6-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-cycloastragenol, AST), the primary pure saponin isolated from the root of Astragalus membranaceus, is an effective compound with distinct pharmacological effects including anti-inflammation, immunoregulation, and antifibrosis. However, the effect of AST on asthma remains unclear. In the present study, in the murine model of asthma, the airway hyperresponsiveness was relieved after treatment with AST, accompanied by a reduction of inflammatory cells. In addition, the levels of IL-4 and IL-5 decreased, while the IFN-γ level increased, in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The compound also significantly inhibited the synthesis of GATA-3-encoding mRNA and protein in addition to increasing the synthesis of T-bet-encoding mRNA and protein in both lung tissues and CD4+ T cells. Our findings indicate that AST treatment inhibits ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation by modulating the key master switches GATA-3 and T-bet, which results in committing T helper cells to a Th1 phenotype.
Comparative Effectiveness of Combined Low- and Standard-Dose Trospium and Solifenacin for Moderate Overactive Bladder Symptoms in Elderly Men and Women
Authors: Kosilov Kirill V. , Loparev Sergey A. , Ivanovskaya Marina A. , Kosilova Liliya V.
Published: August 2014

Objective: To increase the safety and effectiveness of treatments for overactive bladder (OAB) with moderate symptoms in elderly patients. Patients and Methods: Patients were examined at the Urodynamic Department of the Regional Diagnostic Center (Vladivostok, Russian Federation) from September 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. The assignment of patients [n = 177, average age 69. 4 years, 98 women (55.4%) and 79 men (44.6%)] was random and blind in this placebo-controlled study. Patients were distributed into subgroups according to the method of treatment as follows: group А1: n = 57, trospium 30 mg/day + solifenacin 10 mg/day; group А2: n = 61, trospium 15 mg/day + solifenacin 5 mg/day; group А3: n = 59, placebo. All patients underwent a urodynamic examination in accordance with international standards before and 2 months after treatment. ICIQ-SF questionnaires recommended by the International Continence Society (ICS) and bladder diaries were used to evaluate the clinical results. The clinical severity of the OAB symptoms and the effectiveness of the treatment were evaluated based on the frequency of episodes of incontinence (EI) per day. Three or fewer EI per day were considered moderate dysfunction of the lower urinary tract. Results: Groups of elderly patients with moderate symptoms of OAB who were treated with standard- and low-dose trospium and solifenacin demonstrated a significant increase in the median values of reflex volume, bladder capacity, and detrusor compliance and a decrease in the frequency of urination and urinary urgencies. The frequency of EI in both of the main groups decreased by almost 2-fold in comparison to the initial data and reached the following values: group А1: 1.27 (-1.08), p ≤ 0.05; group A2: 1.49 (-1.18), p ≤ 0.05. The correlation with the decrease in the frequency of EI in these groups was r = 0.85 (p ≤ 0.01). The percentage of patients with a significant decrease (EI ≥1.0) among those treated with standard- and low-dose trospium and solifenacin increased synchronously, prompting us to suppose the absence of a direct correlation between medicine dose and therapeutic effect for moderate OAB symptoms. Conclusion: The combination of low-dose trospium and solifenacin provides good clinical and urodynamic effects in elderly patients with moderate symptoms of OAB. Combination of these drugs in standard doses for such patients is excessive.
Nonrandom Return: Lessons from Women Returning for Follow-Up Results of Cervical Cancer Screening in Rural Haiti
Authors: Greenwald Sally R. , Cohen Steven A.
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Few studies have evaluated approaches to improve patient follow-up in screening programs within resource-limited areas. This study investigated the patterns of return among women presenting for results from a cervical cancer screening program implemented in a resource-poor region to highlight areas for future research and potential interventions. Methods: In the development of a cervical cancer screening program in rural Haiti, women aged 18-45 years were recruited from local churches to undergo cervical cancer screening and follow-up for results. A dot plot was used to analyze the distribution of women returning during the results phase compared to the random return rates based on the screening phase. Results: Of the 250 women tested, 121 (48%) returned for follow-up. On the 2 result days with the most returnees, 46 and 63% of the women had been tested during only 3 of the 11 testing days which themselves accounted for 41% of the total number of women who returned. The highest volume return days, a Monday and a Friday, gave results to women tested on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, respectively. The 2 result days with the lowest return numbers had 80% (8/10) of those who returned coming as the only returnee from their day of testing. Conclusion: Result days corresponding with the highest return rates had increased clustering of women from the screening phase, and the result days with fewer women returning had less clustering. These findings are among the first to implicate the importance of defining these patterns of return and the potential for recruitment techniques that exploit such groupings, potentially described by social connections, in limited-resource settings to improve follow-up for screening programs.
Sea-Level Rise and International Law
Authors: Vidas Davor
Published: August 2014

Since core aspects of international law rely on the general stability of geographical conditions, sea-level rise may bring fundamental challenges and require profound re-examination of currently accepted paradigms of international law. This article briefly addresses three questions: first, are the prospects of sea-level rise already a real concern from the viewpoint of international law? Second, what is the relevance of this perspective for current international law? And third, how should international law in the future approach the phenomenon of sea-level rise?
The Evolving Marketscape of Climate Finance
Authors: Richardson Benjamin J.
Published: August 2014

An important dimension of international and national climate governance is the financial sector. Climate finance refers to the role of financial institutions in addressing climate change, such as through investment transactions, identifying financial risks and supporting clean and green energy developments. Global financial markets have become a significant driver of environmental pressure, but also potentially a means of leveraging positive change. The latter role is expressed through the growing movement for socially responsible investing (sri). This article examines how the financial industry affects action on climate change, the role of the sri movement in improving environmental behaviour, and the place of state-based regulation in creating a more conducive “marketscapeˮ for climate finance.
Litigating Climate Change in Asia
Authors: Lin Jolene
Published: August 2014

There is increasing climate change litigation in jurisdictions such as the United States, Australia and the European Union. Such litigation seeks to, inter alia, promote mitigation and compel governmental authorities to take effective adaptation measures. Climate litigation, however, is almost unknown in Asia. This article explores the potential for climate litigation in Asia and argues that conditions are ripe in jurisdictions like India and the Philippines for advancing climate mitigation and adaptation via the courtroom.
Epicardial Fat Tissue Predicts Increased Long-Term Major Adverse Cardiac Event in Patients With Moderate Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Ulucan Seref , Kaya Zeynettin , Efe Duran , Keser Ahmet , Katlandur Hüseyin , Aygun Fatih , Ulgen Mehmet Sıddık , Avci Ahmet , Calapkorur Bekir , Kaya Mehmet G.
Published: August 2014

We investigated the relationship between epicardial fat volume (EFV) measured by multislice computed tomography (MDCT) and long-term major adverse cardiac events (MACEs). Consecutive patients (n = 564) were enrolled in this retrospective study. Patients were divided into tertiles according to EFV. Patients were followed up for an average of 18 months. Patients in each tertile were similar in terms of gender and risk factors. Patients with greater EFV in the third group were more likely to be overweight ( P = .001) and older ( P = .001). High-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were relatively lower in the third tertile (45 ± 9, 45 ± 11, and 43 ± 9 mg/dL, respectively; P = .018). The third group had a significantly higher rate of myocardial infarction (0.6%, 1.1%, and 3.7%, respectively; P = .043). The incidence of MACEs during the follow-up period was highest in the third group 15.9% (4.1%, 7.7%, and 15.9%, respectively; P = .001). Epicardial fat volume measured by MDCT was associated with increased long-term cardiovascular risk.
Using iPads for Distraction to Reduce Pain During Immunizations
Authors: Shahid Ramzan , Benedict Christina , Mishra Seetal , Mulye Milan , Guo Rong
Published: August 2014

Objective. To determine if using an iPad as a distraction technique reduces the parent’s perception of their child’s pain and distress during immunizations. Study Design. A total of 103 parents completed a survey regarding their perception of their child’s pain during immunizations. Fifty-seven patients were in the group receiving no distraction intervention, and 46 patients were in the group that were allowed to use an iPad for distraction while receiving their vaccines. Results. Regression analysis showed that the use of iPad distraction significantly reduced the parent’s perception of their child’s level of anxiety, need for being held, and amount of crying during immunizations compared to no distraction. Conclusions. Distraction by using an iPad during immunizations reduces the parent’s perception of their child’s pain and distress. This type of distraction tool can also improve the parent’s satisfaction with the pain control provided for their child while receiving their vaccines.
How “Collective” Is Union Citizenship Behavior? Assessing Individual and Coworker Antecedents
Authors: Snape Ed , Redman Tom , Gould-Williams Julian
Published: August 2014

Contributing to an emerging literature on solidarity or group-norm effects on union participation, the authors examine the extent to which union citizenship behavior (UCB) can be characterized as a collective phenomenon. Findings from studies of UK local government workers and teachers suggest that, for organization-focused behaviors, it is meaningful to think of collective or group-level UCB. Furthermore, group-level UCB had a significant positive association with individual-level UCB. There was no evidence that a greater consistency of citizenship within a unit was associated with a stronger relationship between collective and individual citizenship behaviors. These findings suggest that it is worthwhile to analyze UCB as a collective phenomenon, and the authors call for more work on the contextual antecedents of union citizenship and participation.
A Principal's Moral Dilemma
Authors: Mirza Annina Maheen
Published: August 2014

When a teacher's professional expectation of autonomy conflicts with students' discomfort in facing a sensitive topic in class, the principal becomes the arbiter.
Head Scarves and Stocking Feet: Pushing Boundaries through Literature
Authors: Nobles Susanne
Published: August 2014

Engaging students with literature, including religious literature, provides a way to broaden their world view.
Recruiting Teachers in Colombia
Authors: Blair Robert
Published: August 2014

Some Colombian schools introduce students to teaching careers as early as the 8th grade, making them experienced teachers by the time they graduate from high school.
Virtual Coaching for Novice Teachers
Authors: Rock Marcia L. , Gregg Madeleine , Gable Robert A. , Zigmond Naomi P.
Published: August 2014

Technology enables university professors to observe and literally whisper in the ear of a teacher during instruction.
At the Core of the Apple Store: Images of Next Generation Learning
Authors: Washor Elliot , Mojkowski Charles , Newsom Loran
Published: August 2014

The physical, psychological, cultural, social, and organizational elements of a learning environment are as important as the learning opportunities themselves. So what can educators learn from an Apple Store's learning environment?
You Don't Have to Be a Statistician to Use Data: A Process for Data-Based Decision Making in Schools
Authors: Flowers Nancy , Carpenter Dawn M.H.
Published: August 2014

Using data to make decisions doesn't have to be intimidating. Here are five easy steps to help your school get started.
Speak up and Listen
Authors: Roberts Terry , Billings Laura
Published: August 2014

Speaking and listening are vital skills for learning to think, but they are difficult and time consuming to teach.
Closing Achievement Gaps: Lessons from the Last 15 Years
Authors: Murphy Joseph
Published: August 2014

How educators look at achievement gaps will determine their success in reducing them. The guidelines and caveats presented here will help educators get a good start.
Meeting the Challenge of School Turnaround: Lessons from the Intersection of Research and Practice
Authors: Salmonowicz Michael
Published: August 2014

Seven recommendations for turning around low-performing schools may help leaders facing this challenge.
Tracking the Progress of English Language Learners
Authors: Murphy Audrey F.
Published: August 2014

Educators must be methodical in identifying students' abilities to read, write, speak, and listen in order to ensure that students are improving their language skills.
English Language Learning and Leadership: Putting it all Together
Authors: Lundquist Anne M. , Hill Jane D.
Published: August 2014

Add rigor to ELL instruction by blending higher-order thinking skills with the stages of language acquisition.
Training Subversives: The Ethics of Leadership Preparation
Authors: Buskey Frederick C. , Pitts Eric M.
Published: August 2014

Aspiring principals must learn more than ‘do no harm.’ They must also learn to ‘do good.’
After-School Programs: Finding the Right Dose
Authors: Dietel Ronald
Published: August 2014

If the dose of time and activity are right, after-school programs can impact student learning.
Standards, Teaching, and Learning
Authors: Rose Mike
Published: August 2014

Expectations are a crucial part of teaching, but the discourse and debates around standards have narrowed and polarized our understanding of standards as expectations.
Leading Teams of Leaders: What Helps Team Member Learning?
Authors: Higgins Monica , Young Lissa , Weiner Jennie , Wlodarczyk Steven
Published: August 2014

A study of Connecticut leadership teams finds that they are more effective when team members, not team leaders, coach other members and when coaching focuses on accomplishing their task.
How Coaches Can Maximize Student Learning
Authors: Saphier Jon , West Lucy
Published: August 2014

Heeding the roles and relationships of coaches enhances the likelihood that they will be able to influence school culture, professional learning, and, ultimately, student achievement.
Tying Together the Common Core of Standards, Instruction, and Assessments
Authors: Phillips Vicki , Wong Carina
Published: August 2014

Fewer, clearer, higher standards will point the United States in the right direction for developing an education system that prepares high school graduates who are college-ready.
Safe at School: An Interview with Kevin Jennings
Authors: Richardson Joan
Published: August 2014

Bullied in school, Kevin Jennings now devotes his life to making schools safe for all children.
School Boards: A Neglected Institution in an Era of School Reform
Authors: Usdan Michael D.
Published: August 2014

School boards can be ignored or bypassed in reform efforts, or they can become a crucial element in leading and sustaining positive change.
School Boards in America: Flawed, but Still Significant
Authors: Maeroff Gene I.
Published: August 2014

Will school boards regain their vitality or simply slip further into irrelevance, reduced to discharging hollow legal responsibilities?
Unintended Consequences of Cost Recovery
Authors: Piercey David
Published: August 2014

A well-intended plan to give schools more flexibility in spending leads to a range of unintended consequences and few of the anticipated advantages.
Changing the National Conversation on Assessment
Authors: Tashlik Phyllis
Published: August 2014

A consortium of New York public high schools serves as a model for a multi-dimensional system that is performance-based.
Meeting Teachers Half Way: Making Educational Research Relevant to Teachers
Authors: Miller Shazia Rafiullah , Drill Karen , Behrstock Ellen
Published: August 2014

Teachers will use more research when researchers fine-tune how they present their discoveries to teachers.
Broadening Our View of Linguistic Diversity
Authors: O'Neal Debra , Ringler Marjorie
Published: August 2014

Even many native English speakers need instruction in the Academic English that's required to be successful in school.
A Peanuty Dilemma
Authors: Hoff Dianne L. , Mitchell Sidney N.
Published: August 2014

To protect children with allergies, schools are being pressured to become peanut-free zones. Medical and legal experts say that's not a good idea.
The Validity of Value-Added Models: An Allegory
Authors: Martineau Joseph A.
Published: August 2014

Seeing the experience of value-added models through the lens of foster parenting makes clear some of the challenges facing education.
Digitalk: A New Literacy for a Digital Generation
Authors: Turner Kristen Hawley
Published: August 2014

Teachers who recognize that “digitalk” is different and not deficient can find ways to harness this language en route to improving students' academic writing.
Three Dirty Words are Killing Education
Authors: Jensen Deb
Published: August 2014

The words we use when discussing reform are leading us astray.
A Tale of Two Futures: A Fable of Teacher Education in the United States, 2025
Authors: Fraser James W.
Published: August 2014

Teacher education in 2010 stands at a pivotal moment. Choices being made today could dramatically reform teacher education over the next 15 years.
Making Ripples: How Principals and Teachers Can Spread Hope Throughout Our Schools
Authors: Lopez Shane J.
Published: August 2014

Helping students become more hopeful can improve their ability to learn as well as make them more resilient for future challenges.
Truths Hidden in Plain View
Authors: McCann Thomas M. , Jones Alan C. , Aronoff Gail
Published: August 2014

To improve learning, educators must first confront the truths about how schools actually operate — and then respond to those realities.
The Messiness of Readiness
Authors: Powell Pamela Jane
Published: August 2014

Instead of sorting children into those who are ready to learn and those who are not, schools should provide opportunities for all children to succeed.
Using School Readiness Data to Make a Difference in Student Learning
Authors: Stuber Gayle M. , Patrick M. Reneé
Published: August 2014

By studying kindergartners, Kansas has identified early learning practices that enable children to be better prepared for school success.
School/Family/Community Partnerships: Caring for the Children We Share
Authors: Epstein Joyce L.
Published: August 2014

When schools form partnerships with families and the community, the children benefit. These guidelines for building partnerships can make it happen.
Pressuring Teachers to Leave: Honest Talk about How Principals Use Harassing Supervision
Authors: Stoelinga Sara Ray
Published: August 2014

Harassing supervision is a rational response to an irrational system — and an unavoidable reality until we address its root causes.
Keeping Youths in School: An International Perspective
Authors: Hoffman Nancy
Published: August 2014

Blending work and learning may provide pathways that ensure that more students are able to complete high school and successfully enter the workforce.
Working Statewide to Boost Graduation Rates
Authors: MacIver Martha Abele , Groginsky Scott
Published: August 2014

Stakeholders in Colorado learned from each other and joined forces to improve high school graduation throughout the state.
Putting Off-Track Youths Back on Track to College
Authors: Steinberg Adria , Allen Lili
Published: August 2014

Integrating high school with college to create early college high schools creates an innovative option for moving more students to graduation and postsecondary success.
Tackling the Toughest Turnaround — Low-Performing High Schools
Authors: Duke Daniel L. , Jacobson Martha
Published: August 2014

The stories of two Texas high schools that improved student achievement reveal what worked for them and could work for others.
Moonlighting: A Harsh Reality for Many Teachers
Authors: Parham Janis N. , Gordon Stephen P.
Published: August 2014

A poor salary and working conditions, taken together, may drive teachers to temporary periods of moonlighting followed by a departure from the teaching profession.
A Refresher Course from Driving School
Authors: Grossman Eric
Published: August 2014

A day at driving school provides unexpected lessons in student engagement.
A Dose of Writing Reality: Helping Students Become Better Writers
Authors: Thompson Christine Love
Published: August 2014

One teacher learns that focusing too much on correct grammar and spelling stifles students' voice in their writing.
Simple Leadership Techniques: Rubrics, Checklists, and Structured Collaboration
Authors: Benjamin Steve
Published: August 2014

Checklists, rubrics, and regular communication between educators can help a district set its most important goals, create a strategy to achieve them, and ensure proper implementation.
Exemplary Teacher Voices on Their Own Development
Authors: Gabriel Rachael , Day Jeni Peiria , Allington Richard
Published: August 2014

Three factors influenced the development of exemplary teachers: specific kinds of professional development, collegial support, and a sense of engaged autonomy.
Leading through a Fiscal Nightmare: The Impact on Principals and Superintendents
Authors: Ginsberg Rick , Multon Karen D.
Published: August 2014

Educators face real and personal anguish from ongoing pressure to cut budgets, cut people, cut programs.
Practicum Training for Teachers of Struggling Readers
Authors: Morris Darrell
Published: August 2014

A supervised training experience can help teachers of struggling beginning readers understand how reading ability develops and how to adapt instruction to meet student needs.
Not Teaching Ethics
Authors: Wiggins Alexis
Published: August 2014

Let students learn ethics by experiencing ethical behavior through Socratic seminar.
Collaborative Problem Solving can Transform School Discipline
Authors: Greene Ross W.
Published: August 2014

Adults, students, and schools benefit when behavioral challenges are viewed through accurate lenses and students participate in resolving them.
Is the Sky the Limit to Education Improvement?
Authors: Schleicher Andreas
Published: August 2014

Comparing your school to a neighboring school is no longer sufficient; you must compare your school, your district, and your country to the best performers in the world.
Help Families by Fostering: Parental Involvement
Authors: Jeynes William
Published: August 2014

Show an interest in your students' families before demanding that parents support your school.
Lessons from KIPP Delta
Authors: Maranto Robert , Shuls James V.
Published: August 2014

A KIPP school in an Arkansas backwater succeeds by tightly focusing on its mission of getting kids into and through college, then organizing tactics and strategies around that goal.
Getting Religion Right in Public Schools
Authors: Haynes Charles C.
Published: August 2014

If we can't get this right in public schools, we have little hope of getting this right in the public square of what is now the most religiously diverse nation on Earth.
Faith from the Fringes: Religious Minorities in School
Authors: Abo-Zena Mona M.
Published: August 2014

Public schools should not support one religion over another, but the nation's Christian majority poses social and logistical challenges to students who are religious minorities.
When Missions Collide: Theological Certainty and Democratic Education
Authors: James Jennifer Hauver
Published: August 2014

Providing a democratic education includes encouraging open inquiry and discussion — even if that conflicts with a teacher's personal beliefs.
Teaching for Religious Tolerance in Modesto: Just Enough, but not too Much
Authors: Lester Emile
Published: August 2014

A unique, required world religions course demonstrates the difference that knowledge can make in creating more civil school environments for students of all faiths.
Seriously Data-Driven Decision Making
Authors: Casserly Michael D.
Published: August 2014

Searching for solutions to operational challenges, big city districts found answers for each other.
A Crash Course on Giving Grades
Authors: Quinn Timothy
Published: August 2014

Grades tell students how well they did in comparison to each other, but almost nothing of what they need to work on to get better.
Touchdowns and Honor Societies: Expanding the Focus of Black Male Excellence
Authors: Morris Jerome E. , Adeyemo Adeoye O.
Published: August 2014

If we want black males to achieve at academics, we must encourage and support those yearnings as much as we do their athletic aspirations.
Life Skills Yield Stronger Academic Performance
Authors: Lindsey Tommie , Mabie Benjamin
Published: August 2014

A course for freshmen boys teaches them about the black experience and each other — and leads to improved self-concepts and academic performance.
Evaluating Teacher Evaluation
Authors: Darling-Hammond Linda , Amrein-Beardsley Audrey , Haertel Edward , Rothstein Jesse
Published: August 2014

Popular modes of evaluating teachers are fraught with inaccuracies and inconsistencies, but the field has identified better approaches.
The Elephant in the Classroom
Authors: Brezicki Colin G.
Published: August 2014

Sanitizing literature for classroom instruction doesn't help students learn the lessons about life and themselves that the texts expose them to.
A University Joins the Community
Authors: Lester Jessica Nina , Kronick Bob , Benson Mark
Published: August 2014

Universities, schools, and communities can collaborate to ensure that children living in low-income communities have the supports they need to be successful in school.
Triggering Reform at Public Schools
Authors: Kelly Andrew P.
Published: August 2014

Proponents of parent trigger laws must find ways to promote stability in the aftermath of a successful petition if they are to avoid the recurrence of policy churn, inefficiency, and persistently troubled schools.
Before You Hit on Me Again, Let's Talk
Authors: Elden Roxanna
Published: August 2014

We've got trust issues from being burned before, but that doesn't mean we want to clap erasers and calculate grades by hand.
The New P.E.
Authors: Vandertie Joan , Corner Amy B. , Corner Kevin J.
Published: August 2014

Preparing students to make healthy decisions about physical activity, health, and nutrition is the hallmark of quality P.E. programs.
Teaching to the Common Core by Design, Not Accident
Authors: Phillips Vicki , Wong Carina
Published: August 2014

The Gates Foundation's substantial investment in developing the Common Core State Standards now depends on translating big ideas into practices that teachers can and will use.
In Praise of Isolation: Who Says PLCs are a Better Way?
Authors: O'Keeffe James
Published: August 2014

Professional learning communities are the latest fad in education, but they have little to do with promoting professionalism.