bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of Platelet-Activating Factor Receptor Attenuates Experimental Food Allergy but Not Its Metabolic Alterations regarding Adipokine Levels
Authors: Batista Nathália Vieira , Fonseca Roberta Cristelli , Perez Denise , Pereira Rafaela Vaz Sousa , Lima Alves Juliana de , Pinho Vanessa , Faria Ana Maria Caetano , Cara Denise Carmona
Published: May 2016

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is known to be an important mediator of anaphylaxis. However, there is a lack of information in the literature about the role of PAF in food allergy. The aim of this work was to elucidate the participation of PAF during food allergy development and the consequent adipose tissue inflammation along with its alterations. Our data demonstrated that, both before oral challenge and after 7 days receiving ovalbumin (OVA) diet, OVA-sensitized mice lacking the PAF receptor (PAFR) showed a decreased level of anti-OVA IgE associated with attenuated allergic markers in comparison to wild type (WT) mice. Moreover, there was less body weight and adipose tissue loss in PAFR-deficient mice. However, some features of inflamed adipose tissue presented by sensitized PAFR-deficient and WT mice after oral challenge were similar, such as a higher rate of rolling leukocytes in this tissue and lower circulating levels of adipokines (resistin and adiponectin) in comparison to nonsensitized mice. Therefore, PAF signaling through PAFR is important for the allergic response to OVA but not for the adipokine alterations caused by this inflammatory process. Our work clarifies some effects of PAF during food allergy along with its role on the metabolic consequences of this inflammatory process.
Cancer Prevention and Interception: A New Era for Chemopreventive Approaches
Authors: Albini Adriana , DeCensi Andrea , Cavalli Franco , Costa Alberto
Published: May 2016

At several recent, internationally attended scientific meetings, including the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)'s “Shaping the Future of Cancer Prevention: A Roadmap for Integrative Cancer Science and Public Health” summit in Leesburg (VA) and the AACR Annual Meeting in New Orleans, the focus on cancer prevention to reduce cancer-related deaths was extensively discussed with renewed attention and emphasis. Cancer prevention should be actively proposed even to healthy individuals, and not just to individuals with high cancer risk. We discuss evaluation of a high cancer risk versus the relatively low risk for side effects of chemopreventive agents. The concept of cancer interception, which is halting transformed cells from becoming malignant cancers, should be adopted for cancer prevention. Potential prevention/interception actions include adopting healthy life style and avoiding carcinogens, repressing inflammation and pathologic angiogenesis, controlling metabolism, correcting insulin resistance and other metabolic alterations. Current drugs with limited toxicity can be repurposed to reduce cancer incidence. Aspirin is now being recommended for the prevention of colorectal cancer and it prevents other neoplasms as well. Metformin and β-blockers could be valuable for reducing pancreatic and breast cancer onset. On the basis of the evaluation of cancer risk, we here call for personalized approaches for cancer prevention and preventive interception and we envisage a list of measures and potential guidelines for preventive and interceptive strategies to reduce cancer burden. Investment into translational research to bring these approaches into public health policies and in the clinic is urgently needed. Clin Cancer Res; 22(17); 4322–7. ©2016 AACR.
Allergic Reactions to Metamizole: Immediate and Delayed Responses
Authors: Blanca-López Natalia , Pérez-Sánchez Natalia , Agúndez José Augusto , García-Martin Elena , Torres María José , Cornejo-García José Antonio , Perkins James R. , Miranda Miguel Angel , Andreu Inmaculada , Mayorga Cristobalina , Canto Gabriela , Blanca Miguel , Doña Inmaculada
Published: May 2016

Background: Pyrazolones are the most common causes of selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) hypersensitivity. We studied a large group of patients with immediate and delayed selective responses to metamizole. Methods: Patients with suspicion of hypersensitivity to metamizole were evaluated. We verified acetylsalicylic acid tolerance and classified patients as immediate or delayed responders if they showed symptoms less or more than 24 h after metamizole administration. Skin tests were performed and if negative, a basophil activation test (BAT) was performed on immediate responders. If it was negative, we performed a drug provocation test (DPT) with metamizole. Results: A total of 137 patients were included: 132 reacted within 24 h (single NSAID-induced urticaria/angioedema/anaphylaxis; SNIUAA) and 5 after 24 h (single NSAID-induced delayed hypersensitivity reaction; SNIDHR). Most SNIUAA patients developed anaphylaxis (60.60%); for SNIDHR, maculopapular exanthema was the most frequent entity (60%). Skin testing was positive in 62.04% of all cases and BAT in 28% of the SNIUAA patients with negative skin tests. In 5.1% of the cases, DPT with metamizole was needed to establish the diagnosis. In 22.62% of the cases, diagnosis was established by consistent and unequivocal history of repeated allergic episodes in spite of a negative skin test and BAT. Conclusions: SNIUAA to metamizole is the most frequent type of selective NSAID hypersensitivity, with anaphylaxis being the most common clinical entity. It may occur within 1 h after drug intake. SNIDHR occurs in a very low percentage of cases. The low sensitivity of diagnostic tests may be due to incomplete characterization of the chemical structures of metamizole and its metabolites.
Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma with Rhabdoid Features
Authors: Sugimoto Masaaki , Kohashi Kenichi , Itsumi Momoe , Shiota Masaki , Abe Tatsuro , Yamada Yuichi , Kuroiwa Kentaro , Naito Seiji , Oda Yoshinao
Published: May 2016

Aims: The aims of this study were to investigate the association of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) displaying rhabdoid features and morphologically mesenchymal characteristics with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and to clarify the expression of EMT markers. Methods: We investigated the expression of EMT markers (E-cadherin, vimentin, Snail, Slug, ZEB1, ZEB2 and Twist1) using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction in 18 cases of clear cell RCC (ccRCC) with rhabdoid features and 74 ccRCC cases with Fuhrman grade 1-3 (G1 to G3). Results: In ccRCCs with rhabdoid features, low E-cadherin and high vimentin expression were found. In G1 to G3 ccRCCs, low E-cadherin expression and high expression of vimentin, ZEB1 and ZEB2 were found. There was no significant difference in the immunoexpression of E-cadherin and vimentin between the two ccRCC groups. Conclusions: The rhabdoid features may histologically and biologically be associated with EMT in ccRCC. There is a possibility that in G1 to G3 ccRCCs showing epithelial structures, other cell-cell adhesion mechanisms apart from E-cadherin adhesion may continue to work, and that ccRCC with rhabdoid features may be caused by an inactivation or loss of these mechanisms.
Ring Chromosome 9 and Chromosome 9p Deletion Syndrome in a Patient Associated with Developmental Delay: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Sivasankaran Aswini , Kanakavalli Murthy K. , Anuradha Deenadayalu , Samuel Chandra R. , Kandukuri Lakshmi R.
Published: May 2016

Ring chromosomes have been described for all human chromosomes and are typically associated with physical and/or mental abnormalities resulting from a deletion of the terminal ends of both chromosome arms. This report describes the presence of a ring chromosome 9 in a 2-year-old male child associated with developmental delay. The proband manifested a severe phenotype comprising facial dysmorphism, congenital heart defects, and seizures. The child also exhibited multiple cell lines with mosaic patterns of double rings, a dicentric ring and loss of the ring associated with mitotic instability and dynamic tissue-specific mosaicism. His karyotype was 46,XY,r(9)(p22q34)[89]/46,XY,dic r(9; 9)(p22q34;p22q34)[6]/45, XY,-9[4]/47,XY,r(9),+r(9)[1]. However, the karyotypes of his parents and elder brother were normal. FISH using mBAND probe and subtelomeric probes specific for p and q arms for chromosome 9 showed no deletion in any of the regions. Chromosomal microarray analysis led to the identification of a heterozygous deletion of 15.7 Mb from 9p22.3 to 9p24.3. The probable role of the deleted genes in the manifestation of the phenotype of the proband is discussed.
Parent-Reported Executive Dysfunction in Children and Adolescents with Chiari Malformation Type 1
Authors: Lacy Maureen , Ellefson Sarah E. , DeDios-Stern Samantha , Frim David M.
Published: May 2016

Background: Children with Chiari malformation type 1 (CM1) have increasingly presented to neurosurgery clinics. Limited research relating to the cognitive dysfunction experienced by this population has been completed. In adults, inhibition problems and executive dysfunction have been documented. Methods: Seventy-seven parental reports of children with CM1 were included in the study. Parents completed questions on a scale rating daily executive functioning as well as reporting on common neurological symptoms. Results: The sample consisted of 41 males and 36 females with a mean age of 133.57 ± 42.18 months. Thirty-eight subjects had had decompression surgery. The most common neurological symptoms included: headache (69%), a history of pain (31%) and gait disturbance (20%). One third of the sample demonstrated overall executive functioning impairment, with working memory elevations being most prevalent (44%). Depression, gender, age and decompression surgery were not related to executive dysfunction. Conclusions: The parental report of executive dysfunction in children with CM1 was higher than the standardized healthy sample. Metacognitive problems, especially working memory and initiation problems were most prevalent. A quick parental rating scale identifying children with executive dysfunction may be beneficial for neurosurgeons and assist with referrals for a more comprehensive neuropsychological assessment.
Focal Dystonia in Hemiplegic Upper Limb: Favorable Effect of Cervical Microsurgical DREZotomy Involving the Ventral Horn - A Report of 3 Patients
Authors: Sindou Marc , Georgoulis George
Published: May 2016

Background: Focal dystonia in hemiplegic upper limbs is poorly responsive to medications or classical neurosurgical treatments. Only repeated botulinum toxin injections show efficacy, but in most severe cases effects are transient. Objectives: Cervical DREZ lesioning, which has proven efficacious in hyperspasticity when done deeply (3-5 mm) in the dorsal horn, may have favorable effects on the dystonic component when performed down to, and including, the base of the ventral horn (5-6 mm in depth). Methods: Three patients underwent deep cervical microsurgical DREZotomy (MDT) for focal dystonia in the upper limb. Results: Hypertonia was reduced, and sustained dystonic postures were suppressed. Residual motor function (hidden behind hypertonia) came to the surface. Conclusions: Cervical MDT may be a useful armamentarium for treating refractory focal dystonia in the upper limb.
Evaluation of Systemic Inflammatory Response Biomarkers in Patients Receiving Chemotherapy for Unresectable and Recurrent Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Namikawa Tsutomu , Munekage Eri , Munekage Masaya , Maeda Hiromichi , Yatabe Tomoaki , Kitagawa Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Michiya , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: May 2016

Background: The present study sought to evaluate an inflammation-based prognostic score (Glasgow prognostic score, GPS) and the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as prognostic factors in patients receiving chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer. Methods: The study enrolled 224 patients who received chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer at the Kochi Medical School from 2007 to 2014. Clinicopathological information and systemic inflammatory response data were obtained to investigate associations between baseline cancer-related prognostic variables and survival outcomes. Results: The median survival time was significantly higher for patients with intestinal-type compared to diffuse-type histology (p = 0.039), a GPS 0 score compared to GPS 1 or 2 score (p = 0.004), and lower compared to higher NLR 4 (p = 0.002). Multivariate survival analysis identified high NLR 4 (HR 1.651; 95% CI 1.187-2.297; p = 0.003) and diffuse-type histology (HR 1.645; 95% CI 1.025-2.639; p = 0.039) as significant independent predictors associated with worse prognosis in the studied group of cancer patients. Conclusions: NLR and histological type are independent prognostic factors for patients receiving chemotherapy for unresectable and recurrent gastric cancer.
Feasibility of a Team Approach to Complex Congenital Heart Defect Neurodevelopmental Follow-Up
Authors: Chorna Olena , Baldwin H. Scott , Neumaier Jamie , Gogliotti Shirley , Powers Deborah , Mouvery Amanda , Bichell David , Maitre Nathalie L.
Published: May 2016

Infants with complex congenital heart disease are at high risk for poor neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, implementation of dedicated congenital heart disease follow-up programs presents important infrastructure, personnel, and resource challenges. We present the development, implementation, and retrospective review of 1- and 2-year outcomes of a Complex Congenital Heart Defect Neurodevelopmental Follow-Up program. This program was a synergistic approach between the Pediatric Cardiology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Pediatric Intensive Care, and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Follow-Up teams to provide a feasible and responsible utilization of existing infrastructure and personnel, to develop and implement a program dedicated to children with congenital heart disease. Trained developmental testers administered the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-3 over the phone to the parents of all referred children at least once between 6 and 12 months’ corrected age. At 18 months’ corrected age, all children were scheduled in the Neonatal Intensive-Care Unit Follow-Up Clinic for a visit with standardized neurological exams, Bayley III, multidisciplinary therapy evaluations and continued follow-up. Of the 132 patients identified in the Cardiothoracic Surgery database and at discharge from the hospital, a total number of 106 infants were reviewed. A genetic syndrome was identified in 23.4% of the population. Neuroimaging abnormalities were identified in 21.7% of the cohort with 12.8% having visibly severe insults. As a result, 23 (26.7%) received first-time referrals for early intervention services, 16 (13.8%) received referrals for new services in addition to their existing ones. We concluded that utilization of existing resources in collaboration with established programs can ensure targeted neurodevelopmental follow-up for all children with complex congenital heart disease.
Trust Me, I’m an Artist
Authors: Farsides Bobbie , Dumitriu Anna , Bureaud Annick
Published: May 2016

Trust Me, I’m an Artist (TMIAA) is a European-based project devoted to developing “Ethical Frameworks for Artists, Cultural Institutions and Audiences Engaged in the Challenges of Creating and Experiencing New Art Forms in Biotechnology and Biomedicine.” As such it brings together a wide variety of interested parties to debate and, hopefully to some extent, resolve ethical issues arising at the intersection of art, science and biomedicine. Leonardo hosts a selection of articles by the artists and curators reporting about the project and the experience.
Taxonomy of the Caribbean sponge Dragmacidon reticulatum (Ridley & Dendy, 1886) (Porifera, Demospongiae, Axinellida), with the description of a new species
Authors: ZEA SVEN , PULIDO ALEJANDRA
Published: May 2016

Although there is a long history of taxonomic investigation in Caribbean sponges, there are still many undescribed species. Furthermore, field observations and corroborating morphological analyses are revealing that what was believed to be single, somewhat variable species, may consist of two or more species, often easier to distinguish once well characterized. This is the case for Dragmacidon reticulatum (Ridley & Dendy, 1886) (Porifera, Demospongiae, Axinellida, Axinellidae), a rather well-known sponge, with an ample distribution and presence in rocky and reef environments of the tropical and subtropical Western Atlantic, with local records in the majority of the countries of the area, from Bermuda to Brazil. Field observations and a detailed review of material from different areas, including some type specimens, led us to the distinction of two different species in terms of external morphology, size of spicules, and skeletal architecture. The distinction was confirmed in the Bahamas and Santa Marta, Colombia, where the two species coexist. One of the species is Dragmacidon reticulatum sensu stricto, but for the other there is need to erect a new name, for which we propose Dragmacidon alvarezae n. sp. The purpose of the present work is to describe, illustrate and compare these two species.
Ahlbergia maoweiweii sp. n. from Shaanxi, China with revisional notes on similar species (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)
Authors: HUANG HAO , ZHU JIAN-QING
Published: May 2016

Ahlbergia maoweiweii sp. n. (Theclinae: Eumaeini) is described from Shaanxi, China. Ahlbergia frivaldszkyi, A. frivaldszkyi tricaudata, A. leei, A. confusa, A. ferrea and A. inopinata are reviewed. A. tricaudata stat. rev. (= A. frivaldszkyi tricaudata) is recognized as a separate species with A. tricaudata confusa stat. n. (= A. confusa) treated as its subspecies. Cornuti morphology of male genitalia is found to be diagnostic in taxonomy of the genus Ahlbergia. Other elfin butterflies externally similar to the new species are also discussed. New distributional data are given for A. clarolinea and A. chalcidis. Color photos of the type specimens of A. caesius and Novosatsuma magnapurpurea are given and a checklist of the Palaearctic elfin butterflies is updated.
Panonychus from Georgia: survey, taxonomical status and redescription of P. hadzhibejliae (Reck, 1947) (Acari, Tetranychidae)
Authors: ARABULI TEA , ÇOBANOGLU SULTAN , AUGER PHILIPPE
Published: May 2016

A survey of Panonychus species was undertaken across Georgia from 2005 to 2014 on various host plants, revealing three species: Panonychus citri (McGregor, 1916), Panonychus hadzhibejliae (Reck, 1947) and Panonychus ulmi (Koch, 1836). New hosts for P. ulmi and P. citri are recorded, Buxus sempervirens, Hedera colchica and Prunus laurocerasus for P. ulmi and Ficus carica for P. citri, whereas P. hadzhibejliae was only found on F. carica. The newly collected material also allowed us to investigate the taxonomical status of P. hadzhibejliae. The comparison of P. hadzhibejliae with the two closely related species sampled in the survey, P. ulmi and P. citri, and with data of P. caricae found in the literature, shows that P. hadzhibejliae is a valid species. It can be separated from the three other Panonychus species without ambiguity especially using the female dorsal setae length in combination with the ratio between the length of the female dorsal opisthosomal f2 and h1 setae and the ratio between the palptarsal terminal eupathidium su and the related solenidion ω. A redescription of P. hadzhibejliae is provided including the male and some morphological characters, measurements and drawings of the female that were omitted in the original description. A key to the world species of Panonychus is also proposed.
A new species of Epicriopsis Berlese (Acari: Mesostigmata: Ameroseiidae) from Brazil, with a key to the world species of the genus
Authors: NARITA JOÃO PAULO Z. , MORAES GILBERTO J. DE
Published: May 2016

Epicriopsis atuberculatus n. sp. is described, based on the morphology of adult females and males collected from macaúba palms (Acrocomia aculeata (Jacq.) Lodd. ex Mart.; Arecaceae) in Minas Gerais state, southeastern Brazil. This is the first species of the genus described from the American continent, from where it has been rarely reported. A key to the world species of Epicriopsis is provided.
Spatial Redistribution of U.S. Tornado Activity between 1954 and 2013
Authors: Agee Ernest , Larson Jennifer , Childs Samuel , Marmo Alexandra
Published: May 2016

Climate change over the past several decades prompted this preliminary investigation into the possible effects of global warming on the climatological behavior of U.S. tornadoes for the domain bounded by 30°–50°N and 80°–105°W. On the basis of a warming trend over the past 30 years, the modern tornado record can be divided into a cold “Period I” from 1954 to 1983 and a subsequent 30-year warm “Period II” from 1984 to 2013. Tornado counts and days for (E)F1–(E)F5, significant, and the most violent tornadoes across a 2.5° × 2.5° gridded domain indicate a general decrease in tornado activity from Period I to Period II concentrated in Texas/Oklahoma and increases concentrated in Tennessee/Alabama. These changes show a new geographical distribution of tornado activity for Period II when compared with Period I. Statistical analysis that is based on field significance testing and the bootstrapping method provides proof for the observed decrease in annual tornado activity in the traditional “Tornado Alley” and the emergence of a new maximum center of tornado activity. Seasonal analyses of both counts and days for tornadoes and significant tornadoes show similar results in the spring, summer, and winter seasons, with a substantial decrease in the central plains during summer. The autumn season displays substantial increases in both tornado counts and significant-tornado counts in the region stretching from Mississippi into Indiana. Similar results are found from the seasonal analysis of both tornado days and significant-tornado days. This temporal change of spatial patterns in tornado activity for successive cold and warm periods may be suggestive of climate change effects yet warrants the climatological study of meteorological parameters responsible for tornado formation.
A Statistical Method for Reducing Sidelobe Clutter for the Ku-Band Precipitation Radar on board the GPM Core Observatory
Authors: Kubota Takuji , Iguchi Toshio , Kojima Masahiro , Liao Liang , Masaki Takeshi , Hanado Hiroshi , Meneghini Robert , Oki Riko
Published: May 2016

A statistical method to reduce the sidelobe clutter of the Ku-band precipitation radar (KuPR) of the Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) on board the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Core Observatory is described and evaluated using DPR observations. The KuPR sidelobe clutter was much more severe than that of the Precipitation Radar on board the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), and it has caused the misidentification of precipitation. The statistical method to reduce sidelobe clutter was constructed by subtracting the estimated sidelobe power, based upon a multiple regression model with explanatory variables of the normalized radar cross section (NRCS) of surface, from the received power of the echo. The saturation of the NRCS at near-nadir angles, resulting from strong surface scattering, was considered in the calculation of the regression coefficients.

The method was implemented in the KuPR algorithm and applied to KuPR-observed data. It was found that the received power from sidelobe clutter over the ocean was largely reduced by using the developed method, although some of the received power from the sidelobe clutter still remained. From the statistical results of the evaluations, it was shown that the number of KuPR precipitation events in the clutter region, after the method was applied, was comparable to that in the clutter-free region. This confirms the reasonable performance of the method in removing sidelobe clutter. For further improving the effectiveness of the method, it is necessary to improve the consideration of the NRCS saturation, which will be explored in future work.
Mixture-Based Path Clustering for Synthesis of ECMWF Ensemble Forecasts of Tropical Cyclone Evolution
Authors: Don Prabhani Kuruppumullage , Evans Jenni L. , Chiaromonte Francesca , Kowaleski Alex M.
Published: May 2016

In this article, three tropical cyclones and their 120-h, 50-member ECMWF Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) ensemble track forecasts at 10 initialization times are considered. The IFS forecast tracks are clustered with a regression mixture model, and two traditional diagnostics (the Bayesian information criterion and a measure of strength of cluster assignment) are used to determine the optimal polynomial order and number of clusters to use in the model. In addition, cross-validation versions of the two diagnostics are formulated and computed to further aid in model selection. Both traditional and cross-validation diagnostics suggest that third-order polynomials and five clusters are effective options—although the evidence is less conclusive for the number of clusters than for the polynomial order, and the cross-validation diagnostics favor a smaller number of clusters than the traditional ones.

Path clustering of IFS tropical cyclone track forecasts with this third-order polynomial, five-cluster regression mixture model produces interpretable partitions by direction and speed of motion for each of the storms and initialization times considered. Thus, this approach effectively synthesizes the forecast spreads within the IFS into a small number of representative trajectories. Based on how forecasts distribute across clusters, this approach also provides information on the likelihood of each such representative trajectory. If used operationally, this information has the potential to aid forecasters in parsing and quantifying the uncertainty in tropical cyclone track forecasts.
Childhood emotional support and borderline personality features in a sample of Canadian psychiatric outpatients
Authors: Kealy David , Sierra-Hernandez Carlos A , Ogrodniczuk John S
Published: May 2016

Background:

Despite links between early relational experiences and psychopathology, data regarding childhood emotional neglect among Canadian mental health services users are scarce.

Aims:

To explore the absence of emotional support experiences reported by Canadian psychiatric outpatients, and to examine the relationship between childhood emotional support and borderline personality disorder (BPD) features.

Methods:

A survey regarding childhood emotional support was completed by consecutively admitted adult outpatients, along with self-report assessments of symptom distress and BPD features.

Results:

A substantial proportion of outpatients reported absent emotional support experiences. After controlling for the effects of age and symptom distress, childhood emotional support was found to be significantly negatively associated with BPD features.

Conclusion:

The findings add further support to the need for clinical attention to the early relational experiences of mental health service users.
The Contributions of the Ribosome Biogenesis Protein Utp5/WDR43 to Craniofacial Development
Authors: Sondalle S.B. , Baserga S.J. , Yelick P.C.
Published: May 2016

Fairly recently, it was recognized that human ribosomopathies—developmental defects caused by mutations in ribosome biogenesis proteins—can exhibit tissue-specific defects rather than the expected global defects. This apparent anomaly—that seemingly ubiquitously expressed and required ribosomal proteins can have distinct functions in cell and tissue differentiation—has spurred new areas of research focused on better understanding translational mechanisms, biogenesis, and function in diverse cell types. This renewed appreciation for, and need to better understand, roles for ribosomal proteins in human development and disease has identified surprising similarities and differences in a variety of human ribosomopathies. Here, we discuss ribosomal protein functions in health and disease, focusing on the ribosome biogenesis protein Utp5/WDR43. New and exciting research in this field is anticipated to provide insight into a variety of previously understudied craniofacial dysostoses and result in significantly improved knowledge and understanding of roles for translational machinery in human craniofacial development and disease.
Searching for actually existing justice in the city
Authors: Williams Miriam
Published: May 2016

Locating justice in the city can be a difficult task. Urban theory has focused on exposing injustice and critiquing the multiple occurrences of injustice in cities. But what role could uncovering practices of actually existing justice in the city play in critical theory? How would we begin to look for actually existing justice in the here and now? By adopting a performative ontology and a politics of possibility, I argue that it is possible to expose, propose and amplify (Iveson, 2010) actually existing justice practices in the everyday city. A shift in thinking and research approach may be needed to make theoretical and ontological space for justice. In this paper I discuss research approaches that assist in locating justice in the city. Theorisations of a politics of possibility, performative ontological politics, weak theory and reading for difference are a suite of research practices that make space for the presence of justice. I argue that cities can be sites of actually existing justice practiced as a response to situated injustices or as a way of doing/being/thinking the city differently and demonstrate this with the example of Alfalfa House Organic Food Cooperative, Sydney, Australia. Documenting how justice is expressed in our cities is essential for work that seeks to grow and nurture justice projects.
Positive Psychology Course and Its Relationship to Well-Being, Depression, and Stress
Authors: Goodmon Leilani B. , Middleditch Ashlea M. , Childs Bethany , Pietrasiuk Stacey E.
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of a positive psychology course on student well-being, depressive symptoms, and stress in a repeated measure, nonequivalent control design. As hypothesized, the positive psychology students reported higher overall happiness, life satisfaction, routes to happiness, and lower depressive symptoms and stress compared to students in the control course. These findings replicate previous research on the benefits of positive psychology courses on well-being and extend previous research by showing that the benefits generalize to other reliable and multidimensional measures of happiness as well as measures of depression and stress. Our results indicate that a positive psychology course may be one way to improve students’ mental health.
The Broader Impact of Friend to Friend (F2F)
Authors: Leff Stephen S. , Waasdorp Tracy Evian , Paskewich Brooke S.
Published: May 2016

Girls often harm others’ social standing by starting rumors about peers or by excluding others from peer group activities, which is called relational aggression. Although relational aggression is not a new phenomenon, there have been relatively few interventions designed to address this, especially for urban ethnic minority girls. The Friend to Friend (F2F) program, developed through an iterative participatory action research process, has proven to be effective in improving targeted relationally aggressive urban girls’ social problem-solving knowledge and decreasing levels of relational aggression, with effects being maintained 1 year after treatment. In the current article, we examine the broader effects of the F2F program. Findings suggest that the indicated F2F program has broader effects such as increasing prosocial behaviors, decreasing relational and physical aggression, and improving teacher–student relationships among non-targeted boys. In addition, the program demonstrated some effects for non-targeted girls including an increase in prosocial behaviors and improved teacher–student relationships. Implications for examining the cost-effectiveness of indicated interventions such as F2F are discussed.
Retrosternal Goiter
Authors: Khan Mohemmed N. , Goljo Erden , Owen Randall , Park Richard Chan Woo , Yao Mike , Miles Brett A.
Published: May 2016

Objective

Retrosternal goiters pose a significant challenge in determining the indications and appropriate approach for surgical removal while limiting postoperative morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study is to use the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database to compare outcomes of transcervical and transthoracic approaches for retrosternal goiter removal and to review the literature regarding the varying indications for the 2 surgical approaches.

Study Design

Administrative database analysis.

Setting

NSQIP database.

Subjects and Methods

The NSQIP database was queried for all cases of retrosternal thyroid: 2716 patients were included, which represents one of the largest data reviews of patients with retrosternal thyroid pathology who underwent surgery. Data were analyzed to examine morbidity and mortality of the cervical and transthoracic approaches.

Results

Patient demographics and preoperative comorbidities were similar between groups. Patients undergoing a transthoracic approach experienced increased rates of unplanned intubations and need for transfusion and length of stay postoperatively.

Conclusions

A transthoracic approach is associated with increased rates of several critical postoperative morbidities, and the data indicate the potential of increased overall mortality. Given equivalent retrosternal extension, a transcervical approach should be attempted whenever anatomically possible, regardless of pathology.
Lateral Skull Base Attenuation in Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence and Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Otorrhea
Authors: Rizk Habib G. , Hatch Jonathan L. , Stevens Shawn M. , Lambert Paul R. , Meyer Ted A.
Published: May 2016

Objectives

(1) To quantitatively assess the lateral skull base thickness in patients with superior semicircular canal dehiscense (SSCD) using a standardized and validated radiographic measure and to compare it with that of a population with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea (CSFO). (2) To analyze demographic and clinical factors associated with skull base thickness in the SSCD group.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary neurotologic referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Based on computed tomography imaging of the tegmen, mean skull base thickness was calculated for 16 patients with radiographic and clinical SSCD. Similar measures were performed in 4 comparison groups consisting of adults with spontaneous CSFO (n = 33), as well as 3 control groups recruited from our adult cochlear implant database: 30 obese controls (body mass index [BMI] >30 kg/m2), 11 overweight controls (BMI, 25‐30 kg/m2), and 20 normal weight controls (BMI <25 kg/m2).

Results

The SSCD group had a significantly lower mean BMI (28.6 kg/m2) than the spontaneous CSFO group (37.7 kg/m2; P =. 0007). The mean skull base thickness of SSCD patients was 17% thinner than that of the CSFO group, 31% thinner vs obese controls, 49% thinner vs overweight controls, and 45% thinner vs normal weight controls. These differences were all statistically significant (P <. 05).

Conclusion

Patients with SSCD have a marked thinning of the lateral skull base, more so than patients with spontaneous CSF otorrhea and control groups with different BMIs. Skull base attenuation in SSCD patients did not correlate with BMI.
The Role of Decision Models in Health Care Policy
Authors: John-Baptiste Ava , Schapira Marilyn M. , Cravens Catherine , Chambers James D. , Neumann Peter J. , Siegel Joanna , Lawrence William
Published: May 2016

Background. In 2009, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) underwent a National Coverage Determination on computed tomography colonography (CTC) to screen for colorectal cancer. The Cancer Intervention & Surveillance Network developed decision models to inform this decision. The purpose of our study was to investigate the role of models in this decision. Methods. We performed a descriptive case study. We conducted semistructured telephone interviews with members of the CMS coverage and analysis group (CAG) and Medicare Coverage and Analysis Advisory Committee (MEDCAC) panelists. Informed by previously published literature, we developed a coding scheme to analyze interview transcripts, MEDCAC meeting transcripts, and the final CMS decision memo. Results. Four members of the CAG and 8 MEDCAC panelists were interviewed. The total number of codes across all study documents was 772. We found evidence that decision makers believed in the adequacy of models to inform decision making. In interview transcripts, the code Models Are Adequate to Inform was more frequent than the code Models Are Inadequate to Inform (47 times v. 5). Discussion of model conceptualization dominated the MEDCAC meeting (Model Conceptualization assigned 113 times) and was frequently discussed during interviews (Model Conceptualization assigned 84 times). We also found evidence that the models helped to focus the policy discussion. Across study documents, the codes Focus on Cost, Focus on Clinical-Health Impact, and Focus on Inadequacy of Evidence Base were assigned 99, 98, and 97 times, respectively. Conclusions. Decision makers involved in the CTC decision believed in the adequacy of models to inform coverage decisions. The model played a role in focusing the CTC coverage policy discussion.
Equilibrium approach of asset and option pricing under Lévy process and stochastic volatility
Authors: Li Shuang , Zhou Yanli , Wu Yonghong , Ge Xiangyu
Published: May 2016

This paper studies the equity premium and option pricing under the general equilibrium framework taking into account stochastic volatility. We establish analytical expressions for the equity premium and pricing kernel of the stock process. Moreover, the equilibrium option pricing formula is derived by the Fourier transformation method. Numerical results show that our model is superior to the previous model with constant volatility in explaining some financial phenomena, such as negative variance risk premium, implied volatilities and negative skewness risk premium. As the price of the underlying asset is modeled as the exponential of the Lévy process with stochastic volatility, our model is more general than the existing equilibrium pricing models.
Presentations by ambulance under the NSW Mental Health Act to an emergency department with a 24-hour mental health team
Authors: Skopek Michaela A , Francis Jeryl Lynn
Published: May 2016

Objective:

The objective of this study was to examine the presentations of patients by ambulance, under Section 20 of the NSW Mental Health Act of 2007, to a hospital emergency department (ED) with a 24-hour Mental Health Team.

Methods:

Patient records between December 2013 and December 2014 were audited and analysed in Excel.

Results:

There were 47 such presentations: 51% required a mental health admission. Patients required management for up to six of the nine identified mental health and physical problems. As the number of clinical problems in these patients increased, the length of their stay and the likelihood of discharge to home increased. The need for psychiatric admission did not appear to prolong their length of stay, though chemical sedation did. The availability of an ED mental health team did assist in achieving a length of stay that was in keeping with Australian National Emergency Access Target guidelines.

Conclusions:

A 24-hour ED mental health team provided specialised assessment and management for patients, alongside the necessary emergency medical intervention. This team assisted in easing the increasing pressure on the ED and minimising the patients’ length of stay. The team redirected patients requiring admission, facilitated timely discharge of others and revoked Section 20 when less restrictive care was appropriate.
Grade-Level Differences in Future-Oriented Self-Concept During Early Adolescence
Authors: Stoddard Sarah A. , Pierce Jennifer , Schmidt Carissa J.
Published: May 2016

The middle school and early high school years are a time of significant development, including an increasing ability to envision oneself in the future. Little is known about how adolescents’ future-oriented self-concept (i.e., possible selves) differs across grade levels, although this knowledge may aid in establishing rapport with students and building effective health promotion and risk reduction interventions. Therefore, this study explored grade-level differences in hoped for and feared possible selves in a sample of sixth- to ninth-grade students ( n = 2,498; Mage = 12.72, SD = 1.15; 51.3% female). Findings suggest that adolescents list a variety of possible selves, and the content differs according to grade level. These findings offer helpful insight for intervention work aimed at improving student outcomes and preventing risk behavior. Understanding what adolescents hope and fear for themselves in the future may be particularly beneficial for school nurses in identifying the unique challenges students experience and tailoring health promotion efforts.
Methodological breaching experiments: Steps toward theorizing the qualitative interview
Authors: Brinkmann Svend
Published: May 2016

The qualitative research interview is arguably the most widespread method of inquiry across the human and social sciences today. In spite of its popularity, there is a significant lack of theoretical reflection concerning this qualitative method of inquiry. On the background of other scholars’ recent experiences with interviewing in different cultural settings, this article begins to develop a theoretical account of qualitative interviewing. First, intercultural interviews are considered as methodological breaching experiments that enable us to better understand the intricacies of a practice that is otherwise taken for granted. Next, I argue that this should lead to a denaturalization of the interview. Qualitative interviewing must be considered not simply as a neutral instrument, capable of representing a “natural” human relationship, but rather as a social practice with a history that provides a specific context for human interaction and knowledge production. Some significant elements of this context are finally spelled out.
Use of a hot-box facility to evaluate hybrid reflective insulation assemblies
Authors: Church Jordan M. , Blades Michael N. , Yarbrough David W.
Published: May 2016

The determination of the thermal performance of hybrid insulation assemblies that include an enclosed reflective airspace and a separate layer of insulation is being done using a hot-box test facility operated in accordance with ASTM C1224, the Standard Specification for Reflective Insulation. The thermal resistance determination of the insulated region requires a hot-box test with known thermal insulation to determine heat flow through the framing. Factors that affect the result for the hybrid insulation assembly will be discussed along with results obtained using the ASTM C1224 protocol. The thermal resistance obtained using the hot-box apparatus will be compared with calculated values obtained from published correlations. The uncertainty in the hybrid insulation assembly and the enclosed reflective airspace due to uncertainty in the thermal resistance of the calibration material are of particular interest.
A difference technique to avoid interface errors in measurement of high-conductance thermal insulation
Authors: Clarke Robin E , Shabani Bahman , Rosengarten Gary
Published: May 2016

Lower limits of measurement are prescribed within all steady-state test methods for thermal insulation. The limit, typically 0.1 m2 K/W, is largely required because of the increasing significance of interface resistance. We have previously proposed the use of a difference method, in conjunction with flexible buffer materials, to minimize the effects of interface resistance and facilitate measurement of rigid materials below these limits. We have now studied this approach at higher thermal resistances and incorporated a refinement to include a known reference specimen in the difference measurement, which largely eliminates the residual resistance terms. Specimens of expanded polystyrene and cast acrylic were measured in a conventional heat flow meter apparatus using two alternative silicone buffer materials: one solid and the other a sponge. Analysis also included earlier measurements of 12 more highly conducting specimens. Across all of these, thermal resistance values obtained by the difference method were lower between 0.008 and 0.016 m2 K/W, attributable to removing the contribution of interface resistance.
Sphenoidal pneumosinus dilatans due to anterior skull base meningiomas – CT and MRI aspects: Report of two new cases and literature review
Authors: Scuotto Assunta , Saracino Dario , Rotondo Michele , Izzo Andrea , Urraro Fabrizio , Cappabianca Salvatore , Sampaolo Simone
Published: May 2016

We report on two patients disclosing a pneumosinus dilatans (PSD) and an anterior skull base meningioma. Our findings, together with those from the pertinent literature, support the thought that this infrequent anomaly of paranasal sinuses is a useful clue to suspect a concomitant meningioma. Moreover, hypotheses concerning the pathophysiology of PSD are discussed.
High tau levels in cerebrospinal fluid predict nursing home placement and rapid progression in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Degerman Gunnarsson Malin , Ingelsson Martin , Blennow Kaj , Basun Hans , Lannfelt Lars , Kilander Lena
Published: May 2016

Background

Increased concentrations of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total tau (t-tau) and phosphorylated tau, as well as decreased amyloid-β 42 peptide, are biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology, but few studies have shown an association with AD progression rate. We hypothesized that high CSF tau, as a marker of ongoing neurodegeneration, would predict a more aggressive course of AD, using time to nursing home placement (NHP) as the main outcome.

Methods

Our sample inlcuded 234 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to AD (n = 134) or mild to moderate AD (n = 100) who underwent lumbar puncture at a memory clinic and were followed for 2–11 years (median 4.9 years).

Results

Individuals with CSF t-tau in the highest quartile (≥900 ng/L) had a higher ratio of NHP, both in the total cohort and in patients with MCI only (adjusted HR 2.17 [95 % CI 1.24–3.80]; HR 2.37 [95 % CI 1.10–5.09], respectively), than the lowest quartile. The association between high t-tau levels and future steep deterioration was confirmed in analyses with conversion to moderate dementia (HR 1.66; 95 % CI 1.08–2.56), rapid decline in Mini Mental State Examination score (≥4-point drop/12 months), and dying in severe dementia as outcomes.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to show that high CSF t-tau levels predict early NHP and conversion to moderate dementia in an AD cohort. Selecting patients with high CSF t-tau, indicating more aggressive neurodegeneration and steeper decline, for AD immunotherapy trials might increase the possibility of showing contrast between active treatment and placebo.