bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life-Space Mobility Predicts Nursing Home Admission Over 6 Years
Authors: Sheppard Kendra D. , Sawyer Patricia , Ritchie Christine S. , Allman Richard M. , Brown Cynthia J.
Published: August 2013

Objective: To explore the association between baseline life-space mobility and nursing home (NH) admission among community-dwelling older adults over 6 years. Methods: Using data from a prospective, observational cohort study consisting of a random sample of 1,000 Medicare beneficiaries ≥ 65 years of age stratified by race (African American and non-Hispanic White), sex, and rural/urban residence. Baseline life-space mobility was assessed during in-home interviews. Participants were contacted by telephone every 6 months to ascertain NH admissions, Life-Space Assessment (LSA) scores, and vital status (living or deceased). Using multivariate logistic regression, the significance and independence of the relationship of life-space mobility with NH admission were examined. Results: Over 6 years, the odds of NH admission increased 2% for every one point lower baseline life-space score independent of previously recognized risk factors. Discussion: The LSA may be a useful tool to identify older adults at risk of NH admission.
“Chemo Brain”—Is Cancer Survivorship Related to Later-Life Cognition? Findings From the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Porter Kristen E.
Published: August 2013

Objective: Studies have shown a correlation between cancer and cognition referred to as “chemo brain.” This study investigated the relationship between cancer and later-life cognition using nationally representative data. Method: Analysis of the 2006 Health and Retirement Study investigated the (a) effects of cancer survivorship on the total cognition score using linear regression in adults age 65+ ( n = 9,814) and (b) the effects of cancer treatment on the total recall index using linear regression in adults age 50+ ( n = 657). Results: Total cognition score is not associated with cancer survivorship. The association between long-term cancer survivorship and cognition score was significant ( p < .05; b = .276). Total recall index is not associated with chemotherapy. Discussion: These results support other research suggesting that chemo brain may be biased by expectation as well as favored by research that relies upon self-reported cognitive measures versus cognitive testing. The study was limited by the cross-sectional design.
International policy diffusion at the systemic level: Linking micro patterns to macro dynamism
Authors: Yukawa Taku , Yoshimoto Iku , Yamakage Susumu
Published: August 2013

This article tries to identify the conditions under which international policy diffusion occurs, focusing on networks among states. In the existing policy diffusion literature, ‘networks’ have recently attracted the attention of scholars. Using Agent-Based Simulation, we consider the question of whether a new policy diffuses more widely in a community with dense networks or in a community with sparse networks. Our results show that denser networks do not always lead to more diffusion. Moreover, we find that ‘network structure’, namely whether easily affected states are connected to innovators, greatly determines the outcome of policy diffusion. Conducting a deductive thought-experiment rather than inductive (mainly statistical) analysis, our research presents a counter-intuitive result concerning the effects of network density on policy diffusion. In addition, we make a contribution to the methodology of international relations by attempting to bridge the unit- and system-levels.
Multi-pelvis characterisation of articular cartilage geometry
Authors: Gillard Faye C , Dickinson Alexander S , Schneider Urs , Taylor Andrew C , Browne Martin
Published: August 2013

The shape of the acetabular cartilage follows the contact stress distribution across the joint. Accurate characterisation of this geometry may be useful for the development of acetabular cup devices that are more biomechanically compliant. In this study, the geometry of the acetabular cartilage was characterised by taking plaster moulds of the acetabulum from 24 dry bone human pelvises and digitising the mould shapes using a three-dimensional laser scanner. The articular bone surface geometry was analysed, and the shape of the acetabulum was approximated by fitting a best-fit sphere. To test the hypothesis that the acetabulum is non-spherical, a best-fit ellipsoid was also fitted to the geometry. In each case, points around the acetabular notch edge that disclosed the articular surface geometry were identified, and vectors were drawn between these and the best-fit sphere or ellipsoid centre. The significantly larger z radii (into the pole) of the ellipsoids indicated that the acetabulum was non-spherical and could imply that the kinematics of the hip joint is more complex than purely rotational motion, and the traditional ball-and-socket replacement may need to be updated to reflect this motion. The acetabular notch edges were observed to be curved, with males exhibiting deeper, wider and shorter notches than females, although the difference was not statistically significant (mean: p = 0.30) and supports the use of non-gender-specific models in anatomical studies.
Women’s Luteal-Phase Sexual Proceptivity and the Functions of Extended Sexuality
Authors: Grebe Nicholas M. , Gangestad Steven W. , Garver-Apgar Christine E. , Thornhill Randy
Published: August 2013

Women’s sexuality, unlike that of most mammals, is not solely defined by sexual receptivity during the short window of fertility. Women demonstrate extended sexuality (in which they initiate and accept sexual advances outside of the fertile phase) more than any other mammalian female. In this light, surprisingly little research has addressed the functions of women’s luteal-phase sexuality. On the basis of theory and comparative evidence, we propose that women’s initiation of sex during nonfertile phases evolved in part to garner investment from male partners. If so, women should be particularly prone to initiate luteal-phase sex when the potential marginal gains are greatest. Results from a study of 50 heterosexual couples showed that women increasingly initiate sex in the luteal phase (but not the fertile phase) when they perceive their partners’ investment to lag behind their own. These findings provide evidence for the distinct nature of women’s extended sexuality and may contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of women’s sexuality.
Technologies for heating, cooling and powering rural health facilities in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Orosz Matthew S , Quoilin Sylvain , Hemond Harold
Published: August 2013

This paper examines technical and economic choices for rural electrification in Africa and presents the rationale for trigeneration (capability for electricity, heating, and cooling) in health and education applications. An archetypal load profile for a rural health clinic (25 kWh[Formula: see text] day−1 and 118–139 kWh t) is described, and a regional analysis is performed for sub-Saharan Africa by aggregating NASA meteorological data (insolation, temperature, and heating and cooling degree days) using correlates to latitude. As a baseline for comparison, the technical, economic (using discounted cash flow) and environmental aspects of traditional electrification approaches, namely photovoltaic (PV) systems and diesel generators, are quantified, and options for meeting heating and cooling loads (e.g. gas-fired heaters, absorption chillers, or solar water heaters) are evaluated alongside an emerging micro-concentrating solar power (μ-CSP) technology featuring a solar thermal organic Rankine cycle (ORC). Photovoltaics hybridized with LPG/Propane and μ-CSP trigeneration are the lowest cost alternatives for satisfying important but often overlooked thermal requirements, with cost advantages for μ-CSP depending on latitudinal variation in insolation and thermal parameters. For a 15-year project lifetime, the net present cost for meeting clinic energy needs varied from 45 to 75 k USD, with specific levelized electricity costs of 0.26–0.31 USD kWh−1. In comparison, diesel generation of electricity is both costly (>1 USD kWh−1) and polluting (94 tons CO2 per site over 15 years), while LPG/Propane based heating and cooling emits 160–400 tons CO2 depending on ambient conditions. The comparative analysis of available technologies indicates that where the energy demand includes a mixture of electrical and thermal loads, as in typical health and education outposts, non-carbon emitting μ-CSP trigeneration approaches can be cost-effective.
Experimental study of centrifugal compressor tip clearance and vaneless diffuser flow fields
Authors: Jaatinen-Värri Ahti , Turunen-Saaresti Teemu , Röyttä Pekka , Grönman Aki , Backman Jari
Published: August 2013

Three vaneless diffuser designs, varying in diffuser width, for centrifugal compressor were studied experimentally. Along with the diffuser width, the tip clearance was altered. The compressor overall performance and diffuser flow fields were studied for each of the three diffusers at four different tip clearances. For the diffuser flow fields, the total pressures were measured with probes traversed over the diffuser width both at the diffuser inlet and outlet. Along with the total pressures, the static pressures were measured adjacent to the probes. This enabled the axial flow angle and velocity distributions to be studied. The pinches tested improved the stage efficiency mainly by suppressing the secondary flow region present near the shroud at the impeller outlet. This leads to a lower strain rate, resulting in lower losses. The efficiency decrease due to the increased tip clearance was similar with and without pinch present. This indicates that in the diffuser, the main source of the tip clearance associated losses is the tip jet, and the tip clearance vortices mix out already in the impeller.
Sexual improvement as if your health depends on it: An analysis of contemporary sex manuals
Authors: Gupta Kristina , Cacchioni Thea
Published: August 2013

Adding to a small but growing feminist literature, this article critically examines popular, contemporary American sex manuals from a feminist social constructionist perspective, focusing specifically on how these manuals construct gender and sexual norms. With notable exceptions, the majority of these manuals are geared toward white, heterosexual, middle-class, able-bodied, and cisgendered audiences. We argue that in addition to positioning sexual activity as a biological, essential (albeit gendered) human need, and as the ultimate path to individual fulfillment and empowerment, a new rationale for the importance of sex (and working on sexual improvement) is now prominent in contemporary sex manuals. Reflecting the “healthicization” of sex in the post-Viagra era, authors frame frequent pleasurable sexual activity as an important factor in the maintenance of health and wellness, an argument that gives further weight to the importance of “sex work” as a fundamental aspect of particularly women’s work in heterosexual relationships. These findings are in keeping with a growing body of literature that highlights the rise of the “sex as health” discourse as well as literature examining the growing pressure to master, improve, and work on sex.
The outcome of patients with renal involvement in pediatric-onset systemic lupus erythematosus – a 20-year experience in Asia
Authors: Lee P-Y , Yeh K-W , Yao T-C , Lee W-I , Lin Y-J , Huang J-L
Published: August 2013

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) predominantly affects women of childbearing age, but 15–20% of cases are diagnosed during childhood. It is important for physicians to understand the epidemiology and clinical presentation for early detection and diagnosis of this disease in difference races. The aim of this retrospective review was to provide a 20-year experience for initial clinical and laboratory manifestations and outcomes in pediatric-onset SLE (pSLE) in a medical center in Asia. We reviewed medical records between April 1990 and June 2012 of patients with a diagnosis of International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) code 710.0 (SLE), who admitted or received follow-up in the Department of Pediatrics at Chang Chung Memorial Hospital. Patients with a diagnosis of SLE prior to their 18th birthday and followed up at our hospital were eligible for inclusion in this study. Medical records regarding age, gender, date of birth and diagnosis, clinical manifestations at diagnosis, laboratory results, image studies and the classification criteria were reviewed. Patients received regular outpatient department follow-up and laboratory survey every 1–6 months. The study cohort consisted of 189 patients; 164 females (86.87%) and 25 males (13.23%). The overall mean age at pSLE diagnosis was 12.62 ± 2.77 years. The most common clinical symptom was malar rash, followed by arthritis and oral ulcers. There was no significant difference in clinical and laboratory manifestations between females and males. More than half of the patients presented with renal involvement initially. The most common histological finding was Class IV lupus nephritis (LN), especially in males ( p = 0.034) and young age. Even with severe LN, the rate of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was low if adequate treatment was initiated. The 5, 10 and 15-year ESRD-free survival rates were 95.4%, 94.0% and 89.9% in patients with biopsy-proven LN. However, infection was the leading cause of mortality. Therefore, aggressive treatment for major organ involvement is important, but physicians must also be aware of fatal infection. The overall survival rates were 5 years: 93.4% and 10–20 years: 89.6%.
Accounting in Cyprus during the last four decades of British Rule: Post-World War I to independence (1918–1960)
Authors: Clarke Peter , Varnava Andrekos
Published: August 2013

Compared to other countries, little has been written about the accounting history of Cyprus. This omission is surprising given the rich history of the island, today a Commonwealth and European Union member, with its own local accountancy body. This article aims to partly fill this vacuum. Despite Cyprus’s links to both Greece and Turkey, it was the experience of British rule that significantly influenced the development of accounting practice in Cyprus. Consequently, this article concentrates on the four decades immediately after the First World War until Cypriot independence in 1960, since this is the era in which the most notable developments in accounting practice occurred. This article traces these developments and their significant influences during that period. Like other country studies on the history of accounting, this article argues that the development of accounting evolved over time in response to the contingent political, economic, institutional and social factors, both at domestic and at international level.
The regulation of asset valuation in Germany
Authors: Hoffmann Sebastian , Detzen Dominic
Published: August 2013

This article examines the regulatory history of asset valuation in Germany from the fifteenth century to the implementation of the European Economic Community’s Fourth Directive in 1986. Aiming to explain regulatory changes by reference to preceding socio-economic and political developments, we find that accounting requirements often became more restrictive following economic crises, after which regulation was perceived to be inadequate. In the nineteenth century, fair valuation replaced the early practice of historical cost accounting. Following a severe economic crisis in the 1870s, historical costs were reintroduced as an upper valuation boundary for Aktiengesellschaften (stock companies). However, the requirements were unspecific and discretionary and provoked a lively debate on principles-based accounting after 1900. The interwar years and the Great Depression encouraged the Government also to implement historical cost as a lower boundary to asset valuation. Following the Second World War, the valuation principle was extended to all company forms.
Join the Conquest
Authors: Hennink-Kaminski Heidi J. , Willoughby Jessica Fitts , McMahan Dana
Published: August 2013

This study addresses the national clinical trial recruitment crisis by chronicling the development of a campaign to move people toward enrollment in an online clinical research registry. The public typically encounters clinical trial information in controversies or study-specific recruitment ads, which limits full understanding. Ten focus groups were conducted with healthy and impaired persons to identify perceived benefits and barriers to participation. Altruism and self-efficacy emerged as key motivators. Three theoretically informed campaigns were developed and tested. Resulting materials have been shared with members of a National Institutes of Health–funded national consortium to improve the way biomedical research is conducted across the country.
Ethnic/Racial Minorities’ Participation in AEJMC
Authors: Moody Mia , Subervi Federico , Oshagan Hayg
Published: August 2013

This paper provides an assessment of the diversity of the leadership positions of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) from 2007 to 2011. While numerous studies have analyzed AEJMC’s membership demographics, gender, and scholarship production, there have been few investigations regarding people of color in leadership positions. Findings indicate little progress for people of color has been made in the past five years. Ideally, the educational institutions and academic organizations most responsible for preparing the next generation of media scholars as well as the professionals who produce the content and manage the media catering to the changing population patterns would be at the forefront of diversity in their own leadership. This is especially so for academic organizations, which through journal publications, conference presentations, and various awards, can often have a direct influence on the research emphases and curricular direction of programs nationally.
Exploring Determinants of Relationship Quality between Students and Their Academic Department
Authors: Cho Moonhee , Auger Giselle A.
Published: August 2013

Given the increasing need for the retention of satisfied and successful students, the purpose of this study was to explore the factors that influence the perceived quality of relationships formed between students and their academic departments. Based on the extensive review of interdisciplinary literature, the study proposed three factors—student–faculty interaction, perceived relationship investment (PRI), and student empowerment. Results of the study demonstrate the significance in associations between student–faculty interaction, PRI, and student empowerment to quality of student–departmental relationships.
Effect of imatinib on male reproductive hormones in BCR-ABL positive CML patients: A preliminary report
Authors: Ghalaut Veena S , Prakash Gulshan , Bansal Piyush , Dahiya Kiran , Dokwal Sumit , Ghalaut Pratap S , Bala Manju , Dhankhar Rakesh
Published: August 2013

Multiple animal studies, few clinical case reports and one study have observed decreased testosterone production and gynaecomastia as adverse effect of imatinib therapy. We have prospectively studied testosterone, LH and FSH levels at baseline and at 6 months of imatinib treatment in 34 newly diagnosed male BCR-ABL positive CML patients. While none of the patients had gynaecomastia at 6 months, the proportion of patients with low testosterone level increased significantly from 11.8% at baseline to 58.8% ( p < 0.001) and those with high LH and FSH increased significantly from 26.4% and 23.5% to 82.4% and 76.4%, respectively ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). Serum testosterone levels decreased significantly ( p = 0.002) and serum LH and FSH levels increased significantly at 6 months of imatinib therapy ( p = 0.001 and p = 0.003) in comparison to baseline levels. The findings document the effect of imatinib on testosterone levels in adult CML patients much before than reported earlier.
Lobeline Effects on Cognitive Performance in Adult ADHD
Authors: Martin Catherine A. , Nuzzo Paul A. , Ranseen John D. , Kleven Mark S. , Guenthner Greg , Williams Yolanda , Walsh Sharon L. , Dwoskin Linda P.
Published: August 2013

Objective: In preclinical studies, lobeline inhibited hyperactivity induced by nicotine and amphetamine, and improved performance and learning in studies utilizing radial-arm maze and spatial-discrimination water maze. This laboratory proof-of-concept study investigated lobeline as a treatment for ADHD symptoms in adults (31.11 ± 7.08 years). Method: Using cognitive tasks and self-report measures, the effects of lobeline (0, 7.5, 15, or 30 mg, s.l.) and methylphenidate (0, 15, or 30 mg, p.o.) were assessed in nine volunteers with ADHD. Results: Evidence suggested that lobeline could modestly improve working memory in adults with ADHD, but no significant improvement in attention was observed. Lobeline administration was associated with mild adverse side effects (nausea). Conclusion: Further investigation of lobeline on working memory may be warranted.
Personalized Exercise for Adolescents With Diabetes or Obesity
Authors: Faulkner Melissa Spezia , Michaliszyn Sara Fleet , Hepworth Joseph T. , Wheeler Mark D.
Published: August 2013

Objective:

This study examined adherence to a personalized, community-based exercise intervention by sedentary adolescents with type 1 or type 2 diabetes or those with obesity.

Research design and Methods:

We conducted a pretest–posttest investigation to explore the application of an individualized exercise prescription based upon current fitness level for 39 adolescents (20 with type 1 diabetes, 9 with type 2 diabetes, and 10 obese) over 16 weeks in community settings. Subjects were recruited from a university-based pediatric endocrinology clinic in the southwestern United States. Adherence to the exercise prescription was monitored using accelerometers over the entire intervention period.

Results:

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels significantly increased over sedentary baseline values ( p < .001), but the average of 42.5 ± 22.1 min/day of MVPA determined at the end of the study was still less than the recommended 60 min/day. Perceptions of health were significantly increased for the total group following the intervention ( p = .008). For those with type 1 diabetes, there was a significant association between MVPA duration and percentage change in HbA1c ( r = −.526, p = .02).

Conclusions:

Recruitment and retention of adolescent participation in daily exercise is challenging. Personalized approaches that include adolescent choices with family support and ongoing motivation can improve individual exercise adherence and a sense of personal health.
The 100th object: Solar lighting technology and humanitarian goods
Authors: Cross Jamie
Published: August 2013

At the end of 2010, the British Museum unveiled the final artefact in their exhibition ‘A History of the World in 100 Objects’: a portable solar-powered lamp designed for and sold to people living without access to mains electricity in Africa and Asia. Solar-powered lights have become iconic objects of social entrepreneurship in Africa and Asia and this article explores the work involved in producing them as humanitarian goods. Following the 100th object from its conception in a Stanford University classroom to points of sale and use in rural India, the article explores how it has been made to materialise both an ethic of care and an ethic of commercial interest. Drawing from traditions in the social study of technology and the conceptual vocabulary of Michel Callon, the author argues that the significance of objects like the ultra-affordable solar lamp lies in their capacity to make and define markets at the ‘bottom of the pyramid’.
Market-widening
Authors: Burr Thomas Cameron
Published: August 2013

Despite advances in understanding markets from many perspectives, total market demand remains understudied. Influences on demand, such as conditions of product use, also remain neglected. Scholars of three traditions—institutionalism, product life cycle, and performativity or “market-shaping”—can help us understand aspects of demand, conditions of use, and efforts to shape those conditions. In this article, I make two arguments that the “use-environment” is a major influence on total market demand and that action to modify use-environments, or “market-widening,” can increase that demand. I illustrate these arguments by narrating and analyzing cases of bicycle markets in the United States and France circa 1890. Finally, I develop the implications of these cases for market studies.
Relative reactivity of different monovalent alkalis on poly(ethylene terephthalate) geotextiles: Aqueous and alcoholic systems
Authors: Rahman Mashiur
Published: August 2013

The relative rate of degradation of poly(ethylene terephthalate) geotextiles in various monovalent alkali hydroxides was studied in both aqueous and alcoholic systems. In an aqueous system, the reaction of all three alkalis on poly(ethylene terephthalate) geotextiles is restricted to the surface since tenacity loss was insignificant and no surface cracks was noticed, whereas in an alcoholic system, significant loss in tenacity occurred due to the formation of surface crack. Furthermore, the relative rate of reactivity of metal hydroxides in aqueous and alkaline media was temperature dependent. However, in equimolar concentration, at 80℃, the relative rate in an aqueous system is of the following order: LiOH > NaOH > KOH in the ratio of 1.65:1.1:1.0. Above 80℃, the reaction is reversed, as aqueous KOH reacts faster than aqueous NaOH. Two different activation energies were found for aqueous KOH at a threshold temperature of 80℃. Furthermore, in heterogeneous systems using dimethyl terephthalate, aqueous KOH was slightly faster than aqueous NaOH in the temperature range of 70–80℃. In an alcoholic system, KOH is almost 1.5 times faster than NaOH at 20℃ and at 60℃.
Potential protective effect of biphasic electrical stimulation against growth factor-deprived apoptosis on olfactory bulb neural progenitor cells through the brain-derived neurotrophic factor–phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase/Akt pathway
Authors: Wang Menghang , Li Ping , Liu Meili , Song Wei , Wu Qian , Fan Yubo
Published: August 2013

Stem cell therapy may provide a therapeutic method for the replacement and regeneration of damaged neurons of the central nervous system. However, neural stem cells (NSCs) and neural precursor cells (NPCs) are especially vulnerable after transplantation due to a lack of sufficient growth factors at the transplant site. Electrical stimulation (ES) has recently been found to participate in the regulation of cell proliferation, growth, differentiation, and migration, but its underlying anti-apoptotic effects remain unclear. This study investigated the protective effects of biphasic electrical stimulation (BES) on olfactory bulb NPCs against growth factor-deprived apoptosis, examining the survival and apoptotic features of the cells. Differentiation was assessed by neuronal and glial markers. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor–phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase (BDNF)-PI3K/Akt pathway activation was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot. The chemical inhibitor wortmannin was used to inhibit the PI3K/Akt pathway. BES exerts a protective effect against growth factor-deprived apoptosis in the NPCs. BES enhanced cell survival and decreased the apoptotic/necrotic rate. Expression of phosphorylated Akt and BDNF secretion increased with BES for 12 h. Furthermore, the protective effects of BES were inhibited by blocking PI3K/AKT signalling. These results suggest that BES prevents growth factor-deprived apoptosis through the BDNF-PI3K/Akt signalling. This work strengthens the opinion that BES may be used as an auxiliary strategy for improving cell survival and preventing cell apoptosis in stem cell-based transplantation therapy.
Alternative Conduits for Microvascular Anastomoses
Authors: Pontini Alex , Tocco Ilaria , Pandis Laura , Bassetto Franco , Vindigni Vincenzo
Published: August 2013

Thrombotic events in vascular substitutes are the main cause of obliteration of most microvascular prostheses and subsequent failure of microvascular anastomoses. The development of new biomaterials for vascular replacement aims to obtain an ideal graft for microvascular surgery. Completely bioresorbable vascular prostheses with the capacity to induce regeneration and growth of a new vascular segment seem to overcome the limitations of contemporary artificial prostheses, mostly made of artificial materials and lacking the capacity to grow and be remodeled. Autologous vessels are currently the most used material for small-diameter arterial replacement. Immune acceptance is a major advantage offered by this technique, but the time required is a limitation in emergency surgery. The need for a prosthetic graft that would have the same properties as a small-diameter conduit has led investigators to pursue many avenues in vascular biology. This article details the development of microvascular synthetic prostheses, clarifying the current status and the future aims.
The CUSUM Analysis of the Learning Curve for Endoscopic Thyroidectomy by the Breast Approach
Authors: Liao Hui-Jun , Dong Chao , Kong Fan-Jing , Zhang Zhi-Peng , Huang Peng , Chang Shi
Published: August 2013

Objectives. To evaluate the learning curve for endoscopic thyroidectomy by the breast approach (ETBBA) based on the cumulative summation (CUSUM) technique. Methods. The study included 110 consecutive patients who underwent ETBBA by a single surgeon between January 2009 and May 2012 at the Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China. The learning curve was evaluated using the CUSUM technique. The patients were chronologically arranged into 3 phases by the CUSUM analysis for operative time. Demographic data and operative parameters were also analyzed. Results. The mean operative time (OT) was 125.3 minutes. The conversion rate for technical difficulties and the definitive complication rate were 6.4% and 10%, respectively. The learning curve was analyzed mainly by OT using the CUSUM technique. There was a significant improvement in the average OT ( P < .05) after the first 27 patients and again after the first 67 patients ( P < .05). A downward trend in OT was found up to the last patient. There were similarities in gender, tumor size, extent of surgery, blood loss, histology, hospital stay, conversion rate, and complications among the 3 phases. Comparison of 2 neighboring phases also showed no significant differences in age. Conclusions. ETBBA performed by surgeons has a remarkable learning curve. There were 27 cases in the early stage of the learning curve, whereas mastery level could be achieved with 67 cases.
Physical Activity and Sedentary Time
Authors: George Emma S. , Kolt Gregory S. , Rosenkranz Richard R. , Guagliano Justin M.
Published: August 2013

Promoting physical activity and reducing sedentary time in males can be challenging, and interventions tailored specifically for males are limited. Understanding male perceptions of physical activity and sedentary behavior is important to inform development of relevant interventions, especially for males working in an office setting. As part of a larger intervention study to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary time, male university employees aged 35 to 64 years were invited to partake in focus groups to discuss benefits, motivators, and barriers related to physical activity and sedentary time. Five semistructured focus group sessions, ranging from 50 to 70 minutes in duration, were conducted on two campuses at an Australian university. A total of 15 participants (9 academic/faculty staff and 6 professional staff), with a mean (± SD) age of 46.1 (±8.0) years took part in the study. Health and family were commonly discussed motivators for physical activity, whereas time constraints and work commitments were major barriers to physical activity participation. Sedentary time was a perceived “by-product” of participants’ university employment, as a substantial proportion of their days were spent sitting, primarily at a computer. Participants believed that physical activity should be recognized as a legitimate activity at work, embedded within the university culture and endorsed using a top-down approach. It is important to encourage breaks in sedentary time and recognize physical activity as a legitimate health-promoting activity that is supported and encouraged during working hours. These findings can be used as a platform from which to develop targeted strategies to promote physical activity in male university employees.
Stance and metaphor: Mapping changing representations of (organizational) identity
Authors: McEntee-Atalianis Lisa J
Published: August 2013

This article illustrates how metaphor is used as a stance-taking resource and strategy to indirectly index enduring and changing representations of organizational identity through an analysis of speeches delivered by consecutive Secretary Generals of an agency of the United Nations. Drawing on Bucholtz and Hall’s (2005, 2006) framework of identity, and recent research on stance (e.g. Du Bois, 2007), it illustrates how metaphor marks attitudes and orientations to context, propositions and social and political structures/relationships. The analysis highlights similarities in the depiction of the organization over two terms of office, but also reveals differences in identity positioning and inter-subjective framing. Particular metaphorical scenarios and mappings are used rhetorically to strengthen subject positions and alignments, and mark evaluations, supporting Du Bois’s theory of stance as a ‘triune’ act. It is argued that a combined analysis of stance and metaphor provides an important framework and instrument for further research on identity construction, especially in organizational and political discourse. Moreover, the theory of stance can be further enhanced through an investigation of metaphorical mappings.
Building interaction: The role of talk in joining a community of practice
Authors: Holmes Janet , Woodhams Jay
Published: August 2013

The process of apprenticeship is one means of entering a new profession. Along with the technical skills entailed in learning a new job, apprentices need to acquire proficiency in appropriate ways of communicating in order to construct a convincing professional identity. Data collected on a New Zealand building site provides evidence of the extent of the situated learning in which building apprentices engage. Becoming an accepted member of the community of practice centrally involves learning to recognize and respond appropriately to a wide range of differently encoded directives, for instance. But membership also entails developing an understanding of more subtle interactional norms, such as acceptable topics of small talk and appropriate forms and quantities of humour on the job. This article examines evidence that suggests these understandings develop gradually as apprentices move from peripheral to core status in their chosen professional community of practice. We also explore the implications of the analysis for a more nuanced understanding of the complexities of the community of practice framework.
Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency and multiple sclerosis: a comprehensive meta-analysis of case–control studies
Authors: Tsivgoulis Georgios , Sergentanis Theodoros N. , Chan Andrew , Voumvourakis Konstantinos , Triantafyllou Nikos , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Gold Ralf , Krogias Christos
Published: August 2013

Objectives:

Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). This comprehensive meta-analysis of case–control studies investigates the association of CCSVI with MS.

Methods:

Through Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane database searches, case–control ultrasound studies comparing CCSVI frequency among patients with MS and healthy controls were identified.

Results:

We identified 19 eligible studies including 1250 patients with MS and 899 healthy controls. The pooled analysis showed that CCSVI was associated with MS [odds ratio (OR) 8.35; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.44–20.31; p < 0.001) with considerable heterogeneity across studies ( I2 = 80.1%). This association was substantially attenuated in sensitivity analyses excluding studies that were carried out by the group that originally described CCSVI, included investigators who had also been involved in publications advocating endovascular procedures for CCSVI treatment, or were conducted in Italy. Our most conservative sensitivity analysis combining different exclusion criteria yielded no association of CCSVI with MS (OR 1.35; 95% CI 0.62–2.93; p = 0.453) without any heterogeneity ( I2 = 0%).

Conclusion:

There is considerable heterogeneity across different case–control studies evaluating the association of CCSVI and MS. The greatest factor contributing to this heterogeneity appears to be the involvement of investigators in other publications supporting endovascular procedures as a novel MS treatment.
Stress Fracture of the Anterior Process of the Calcaneus
Authors: Taketomi Shuji , Uchiyama Eiji , Iwaso Hiroshi
Published: August 2013

Stress fracture of the anterior process of the calcaneus is rare. We present a case of a 14-year-old female basketball player who suffered a stress fracture of the anterior process of the calcaneus that was not associated with a calcaneonavicular coalition. After conservative treatment failed, drilling of the fracture site was required to facilitate healing. A possible cause of this rare type of stress fracture seemed to be a long anterior process of the calcaneus.

Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case study
A Comparison of the Influence of Purchaser Attitudes and Product Attributes on Organic Wine Preferences
Authors: Rahman Imran , Stumpf Tyler , Reynolds Dennis
Published: August 2013

Despite considerable theoretical support for the proposition that wine consumers’ purchase decisions would be influenced by whether a wine was organic, this study found that taste overwhelmed all other considerations in respondents’ selection of wine. This experimental study used sensory evaluation in conjunction with a survey of participants’ attitudes toward sustainability and other environmental issues. The study’s methodology was supported theoretically by a means–end approach, evaluative conditioning, and consumer involvement. Despite the strong theoretical underpinnings that suggested personal attitudes would drive purchase decisions, the results indicate that taste alone consistently influenced participants’ preference for wines. Once the respondents tasted the wine, the fact that the wine was organic had no further influence on the wine purchase decision.
Preparation and properties of polyamide/epoxy/multi-walled carbon nanotube nanocomposite
Authors: Kausar Ayesha , Iqbal Anila , Hussain Syed Tajammul
Published: August 2013

Nanocomposite composed of amine-terminated polyamide (an aramid)/bisphenol A diglycidyl ether epoxy matrix and functionalized and non-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube have been fabricated. Polyamide/bisphenol A diglycidyl ether/multi-walled carbon nanotube nanocomposite was cured at 120℃ with different filler content. In order to investigate the influence of functional filler on nanocomposite properties, morphological, mechanical and thermal profile of polyamide/bisphenol A diglycidyl ether nanocomposite with varying multi-walled carbon nanotube content were studied. Functional multi-walled carbon nanotube-reinforced nanocomposite showed greater strengthening at all weight percent as they actively control the failure mechanism; 5 wt% functional multi-walled carbon nanotube-based sample showed 62% improvement in toughness i.e. area under the stress–strain curve (35.6 J/m3) relative to non-functional (13.7 J/m3) nanocomposite. The ultimate tensile strength also improved from 39.2 to 59.7 MPa. The multi-walled carbon nanotube ratio was an interesting feature significantly influencing the properties of polyamide/bisphenol A diglycidyl ether/multi-walled carbon nanotube due to the contribution of hydrogen bonding and π-π staking between the matrix and filler. Thermal stability consistently increased with amalgamation of functional multi-walled carbon nanotube in the polyamide/bisphenol A diglycidyl ether matrix ( T0 523–565℃; Tg 247–253℃) over polyamide/bisphenol A diglycidyl ether /non-functional multi-walled carbon nanotube ( T0 499℃; Tg 246℃). Novelty of the research lies in exclusive architecture, exceptional heat stability and mechanical properties of aramid/epoxy-based nanocomposite.
Vanadoallanite-(La): a new epidote-supergroup mineral from Ise, Mie Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Nagashima M. , Nishio-Hamane D. , Tomita N. , Minakawa T. , Inaba S.
Published: August 2013

The new mineral, vanadoallanite-(La), found in the stratiform ferromanganese deposit from the Shobu area, Ise City, Mie Prefecture, Japan, was studied using electron microprobe analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. Vanadoallanite-(La) is a rare-earth element-rich monoclinic epidote-supergroup mineral with simplified formula CaLaV3+AlFe2+(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH) (Z= 2, space group P21/m) characterized by predominantly V3+at one of three octahedral sites,M1. The crystal studied shows large V (∼8.4 V2O3wt.%), Fe (∼13.8 Fe2O3wt.%; Fe2+/total Fe = 0.58) and Mn (∼8.8 MnO wt.%) contents. A small amount of Ti is also present (∼1.3 TiO2wt.%). Structural refinement converged toR1= 2.96%. The unit-cell parameters area= 8.8985(2),b= 5.7650(1),c= 10.1185(2) Å, β = 114.120(1)° andV= 473.76(2) Å3. The cation distributions determined atA1,A2andM3are Ca0.61Mn0.39, (La0.46Ce0.14Pr0.07Nd0.18)Σ0.85Ca0.15and Fe2+0.56Mn2+0.30Mg0.06V3+0.05Fe3+0.03, respectively. On the other hand, depending on Ti assignment, two different schemes of the cation distribution atM1andM2can be considered: (1)M1(V3+0.58Fe3+0.34Ti4+0.08)M2(Al0.92Fe3+0.08), and (2)M1(V3+0.58Fe3+0.42)M2(Al0.92Ti4+0.08). In both cases, the dominant cations atA1, A2, M1, M2andM3are Ca, La, V3+, Al and Fe2+, respectively. According to ionic radius, Ti4+possibly prefersM2rather than Fe3+. A large Mn2+content at A1 also characterizes our vanadoallanite-(La). The structural change of Mn2+-rich allanite-group minerals is considered to be controlled by two main factors. One is the large Mn2+content at A1 in vanadoallanite-(La), which modifies the topology of theA1O9polyhedron. The other is the expansion ofM3O6andM1O6octahedra caused by large octahedral cations, such as Fe2+and Mn2+, atM3and the trivalent transition elements, V3+and Fe3+, atM1.
Oxo-magnesio-hastingsite, NaCa2(Mg2Fe3+3 )(Al2Si6)O22O2, a new anhydrous amphibole from the Deeti volcanic cone, Gregory rift, northern Tanzania
Authors: Zaitsev A. N. , Avdontseva E. Yu. , Britvin S. N. , Demény A. , Homonnay Z. , Jeffries T. E. , Keller J. , Krivovichev V. G. , Markl G. , Platonova N. V. , Siidra O. I. , Spratt J. , Vennemann T.
Published: August 2013

Oxo-magnesio-hastingsite, ideally NaCa2(Mg2Fe3+3)(Al2Si6)O22O2, is a new anhydrous amphibole from the Deeti volcanic cone in the Gregory rift (northern Tanzania). The mineral occurs as megacrysts up to 12 cm in size in crystal-rich tuff. Oxo-magnesio-hastingsite is brown with a vitreous lustre and has a perfect {110} cleavage. The measured density is 3.19(1) g/cm3. Ferri-kaersutite is biaxial (–), α = 1.706 (2), β = 1.715(2), γ = 1.720(2) (Na light, 589 nm). 2V (calc.) = 73°. Dispersion: r > v, weak; orientation: Y = b; Z ^ c = 8°; pleochroism: strong, Z: dark brown, Y: brown, X: light brown. The average chemical formula of the mineral derived from electron microprobe analyses, Mössbauer spectroscopy and direct water determination is (Na0.67K0.33)Σ1.00(Ca1.87Na0.14Mn0.01)Σ2.02(Mg3.27Fe3+1.25Ti0.44Al0.08)Σ5.04(Al1.80Si6.20O22)(O1.40OH0.60)Σ2.00. It has monoclinic symmetry, space group C2/m and unit-cell parameters a = 9.8837(3), b = 18.0662(6), c = 5.3107(2) Å, b = 105.278(1)o, V = 914.77(5) Å3, Z = 2. The five strongest powder-diffraction lines [d in Å, (I/Io), hkl] are: 3.383 (62) (131), 2.708 (97) (151), 2.555 (100) (), 2.349 (29) () and 2.162 (36) (261). The isotopic composition of H and O, as well as the concentration of trace elements in oxo-magnesio-hastingsite suggest its formation from a melt originated from a mantle source metasomatized by slab-derived fluids.
MicroRNA-503 inhibits the G1/S transition by downregulating cyclin D3 and E2F3 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xiao Fenqiang , zhang Wu , Chen Liming , Chen Fei , Xie Haiyang , Xing Chunyang , Yu Xiaobo , Ding Songming , Chen Kangjie , Guo Haijun , Cheng Jun , Zheng Shusen , Zhou Lin
Published: August 2013

Background

Increasing evidence indicates that deregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) is involved in tumorigenesis. Downregulation of microRNA-503 has been observed in various types of diseases, including cancer. However, the biological function of miR-503 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still largely unknown. In this study we aimed to elucidate the prognostic implications of miR-503 in HCC and its pathophysiologic role.

Methods

Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate miR-503 expression in HCC tissues and cell lines. Western blotting was performed to evaluate the expression of the miR-503 target genes. In vivo and in vitro assays were performed to evaluate the function of miR-503 in HCC. Luciferase reporter assay was employed to validate the miR-503 target genes.

Results

miR-503 was frequently downregulated in HCC cell lines and tissues. Low expression levels of miR-503 were associated with enhanced malignant potential such as portal vein tumor thrombi, histologic grade, TNM stage, AFP level and poor prognosis. Multivariate analysis indicated that miR-503 downregulation was significantly associated with worse overall survival of HCC patients. Functional studies showed miR-503 suppressed the proliferation of HCC cells by induction of G1 phase arrest through Rb-E2F signaling pathways, and thus may function as a tumor suppressor. Further investigation characterized two cell cycle-related molecules, cyclin D3 and E2F3, as the direct miR-503 targets.

Conclusion

Our data highlight an important role for miR-503 in cell cycle regulation and in the molecular etiology of HCC, and implicate the potential application of miR-503 in prognosis prediction and miRNA-based HCC therapy.
The sweet and sour of serological glycoprotein tumor biomarker quantification
Authors: Kuzmanov Uros , Kosanam Hari , Diamandis Eleftherios P
Published: August 2013

Aberrant and dysregulated protein glycosylation is a well-established event in the process of oncogenesis and cancer progression. Years of study on the glycobiology of cancer have been focused on the development of clinically viable diagnostic applications of this knowledge. However, for a number of reasons, there has been only sparse and varied success. The causes of this range from technical to biological issues that arise when studying protein glycosylation and attempting to apply it to practical applications. This review focuses on the pitfalls, advances, and future directions to be taken in the development of clinically applicable quantitative assays using glycan moieties from serum-based proteins as analytes. Topics covered include the development and progress of applications of lectins, mass spectrometry, and other technologies towards this purpose. Slowly but surely, novel applications of established and development of new technologies will eventually provide us with the tools to reach the ultimate goal of quantification of the full scope of heterogeneity associated with the glycosylation of biomarker candidate glycoproteins in a clinically applicable fashion.