bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De Novo Lipid Synthesis Facilitates Gemcitabine Resistance through Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Tadros Saber , Shukla Surendra K. , King Ryan J. , Gunda Venugopal , Vernucci Enza , Abrego Jaime , Chaika Nina V. , Yu Fang , Lazenby Audrey J. , Berim Lyudmyla , Grem Jean , Sasson Aaron R. , Singh Pankaj K.
Published: August 2017

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is moderately responsive to gemcitabine-based chemotherapy, the most widely used single-agent therapy for pancreatic cancer. Although the prognosis in pancreatic cancer remains grim in part due to poor response to therapy, previous attempts at identifying and targeting the resistance mechanisms have not been very successful. By leveraging The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset, we identified lipid metabolism as the metabolic pathway that most significantly correlated with poor gemcitabine response in pancreatic cancer patients. Furthermore, we investigated the relationship between alterations in lipogenesis pathway and gemcitabine resistance by utilizing tissues from the genetically engineered mouse model and human pancreatic cancer patients. We observed a significant increase in fatty acid synthase (FASN) expression with increasing disease progression in spontaneous pancreatic cancer mouse model, and a correlation of high FASN expression with poor survival in patients and poor gemcitabine responsiveness in cell lines. We observed a synergistic effect of FASN inhibitors with gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer cells in culture and orthotopic implantation models. Combination of gemcitabine and the FASN inhibitor orlistat significantly diminished stemness, in part due to induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress that resulted in apoptosis. Moreover, direct induction of ER stress with thapsigargin caused a similar decrease in stemness and showed synergistic activity with gemcitabine. Our in vivo studies with orthotopic implantation models demonstrated a robust increase in gemcitabine responsiveness upon inhibition of fatty acid biosynthesis with orlistat. Altogether, we demonstrate that fatty acid biosynthesis pathway manipulation can help overcome the gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer by regulating ER stress and stemness. Cancer Res; 77(20); 5503–17. ©2017 AACR.
Topically Applied Carvedilol Attenuates Solar Ultraviolet Radiation Induced Skin Carcinogenesis
Authors: Huang Kevin M. , Liang Sherry , Yeung Steven , Oiyemhonlan Etuajie , Cleveland Kristan H. , Parsa Cyrus , Orlando Robert , Meyskens Frank L. , Andresen Bradley T. , Huang Ying
Published: August 2017

In previous studies, the β-blocker carvedilol inhibited EGF-induced epidermal cell transformation and chemical carcinogen-induced mouse skin hyperplasia. As exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation leads to skin cancer, the present study examined whether carvedilol can prevent UV-induced carcinogenesis. Carvedilol absorbs UV like a sunscreen; thus, to separate pharmacological from sunscreen effects, 4-hydroxycarbazole (4-OHC), which absorbs UV to the same degree as carvedilol, served as control. JB6 P+ cells, an established epidermal model for studying tumor promotion, were used for evaluating the effect of carvedilol on UV-induced neoplastic transformation. Both carvedilol and 4-OHC (1 μmol/L) blocked transformation induced by chronic UV (15 mJ/cm2) exposure for 8 weeks. However, EGF-mediated transformation was inhibited by only carvedilol but not by 4-OHC. Carvedilol (1 and 5 μmol/L), but not 4-OHC, attenuated UV-induced AP-1 and NF-κB luciferase reporter activity, suggesting a potential anti-inflammatory activity. In a single-dose UV (200 mJ/cm2)-induced skin inflammation mouse model, carvedilol (10 μmol/L), applied topically after UV exposure, reduced skin hyperplasia and the levels of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, IL1β, IL6, and COX-2 in skin. In SKH-1 mice exposed to gradually increasing levels of UV (50–150 mJ/cm2) three times a week for 25 weeks, topical administration of carvedilol (10 μmol/L) after UV exposure increased tumor latency compared with control (week 18 vs. 15), decreased incidence and multiplicity of squamous cell carcinomas, while 4-OHC had no effect. These data suggest that carvedilol has a novel chemopreventive activity and topical carvedilol following UV exposure may be repurposed for preventing skin inflammation and cancer. Cancer Prev Res; 10(10); 598–606. ©2017 AACR.
No Correlation of the Disease Severity of Influenza A Virus Infection with the rs12252 Polymorphism of the Interferon-Induced Transmembrane Protein 3 Gene
Authors: Kim Yong-Chan , Jeong Byung-Hoon
Published: August 2017

The 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, which involved a more pathogenic virus than seasonal influenza viruses, rapidly spread around the world and caused many deaths in humans. The members of the interferon-induced transmembrane (IFITM) protein family prevent viral replication and are crucial for defending the host cell against influenza A virus (IAV). Several studies suggest that the CC genotype at the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs12252 of IFITM3 confers a genetic predisposition to pandemic influenza A in Europeans and Han Chinese, although one study in a British cohort failed to show an association. In order to examine whether an SNP of the IFITM3 gene is correlated with the disease severity of pandemic IAV (H1N1) infection in a Korean population, we investigated the genotype and allele frequencies of this polymorphism in 300 healthy Koreans by automatic direct sequencing and compared the disease severity based on epidemiological studies of the H1N1 virus reported in several countries. The frequencies of the CC genotype and the C allele in the IFITM3 polymorphism were higher in the Korean population than in the European populations, but not in Chinese and Japanese populations. The prevalence of severe cases of the pandemic 2009 IAV infection in Koreans was similar to that in Europeans (p = 0.106). In addition, the prevalence of deaths among all positive cases with pandemic 2009 IAV infection in Koreans was significantly lower than that in Europeans. These results suggest that the IFITM3 genotype may not be a determinant of disease severity of IAV infection.
Regenerative Medicine Approaches for Age-Related Muscle Loss and Sarcopenia: A Mini-Review
Authors: Naranjo Juan Diego , Dziki Jenna L. , Badylak Stephen F.
Published: August 2017

Sarcopenia is a complex and multifactorial disease that includes a decrease in the number, structure and physiology of muscle fibers, and age-related muscle mass loss, and is associated with loss of strength, increased frailty, and increased risk for fractures and falls. Treatment options are suboptimal and consist of exercise and nutrition as the cornerstone of therapy. Current treatment principles involve identification and modification of risk factors to prevent the disease, but these efforts are of limited value to the elderly individuals currently affected by sarcopenia. The development of new and effective therapies for sarcopenia is challenging. Potential therapies can target one or more of the proposed multiple etiologies such as the loss of regenerative capacity of muscle, age-related changes in the expression of signaling molecules such as growth hormone, IGF-1, myostatin, and other endocrine signaling molecules, and age-related changes in muscle physiology like denervation and mitochondrial dysfunction. The present paper reviews regenerative medicine strategies that seek to restore adequate skeletal muscle structure and function including exogenous delivery of cells and pharmacological therapies to induce myogenesis or reverse the physiologic changes that result in the disease. Approaches that modify the microenvironment to provide an environment conducive to reversal and mitigation of the disease represent a potential regenerative medicine approach that is discussed herein.
The Death of a Leninist Dictator: “The Memory of Comrade Gheorghe Gheorghiu-Dej Forever Alive in the Heart of the Party, of the Working Class, of the People”
Authors: Stan Marius , Tismaneanu Vladimir
Published: August 2017

Funeral ceremonies for Communist leaders during the Cold War signaled the end of a particular era and the beginning of a new one. In the case of Romania, Gheorghe Gheorghiu-Dej's unexpected demise in March 1965 resulted in Nicolae Ceaușescu's spectacular rise to power and the beginning of a short lived de-Stalinization. Weeks after the former dictator's death, dramatic changes occurred within the top elite and in the interpretation of the Romanian Communist Party's history. Gheorghiu-Dej's name swiftly vanished from the official propaganda, and the new leader's cult of personality was born.
The Wallenberg Affair and the Onset of the Cold War
Authors: Makinen Marvin W.
Published: August 2017

The tragic fate of the courageous Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg after he was seized by Soviet forces at the end of World War II has never been adequately explained. For more than four decades afterward, Soviet officials refused to explain why Wallenberg was detained or what happened to him afterward. Even after the Soviet Union broke apart, officials in Moscow were averse to divulging much information about Wallenberg. The book Auf den Spuren Wallenbergs, edited by Stefan Karner, brings together contributors from several countries who draw on the latest releases from Moscow archives and produce up-to-date essays about what is known at this stage about Wallenberg's mysterious disappearance.
The Gallic Ransom and the Sack of Rome
Authors: Roth Ulrike
Published: August 2017

The article challenges the widespread view that the Gallic ransom mentioned in a number of sources for the events traditionally known as the Sack of Rome in 390BCshould be understood as evidence that the Gauls did not take Rome in its entirety. The article shows in contrast that, whatever happened in the night when the geese suffered from insomnia on the Capitoline Hill, a ransom is a perfectly suitable element in a story of a Gallic take-over of Rome—hill and all; and that it cannot be taken as evidence that an alternative narrative to the successful defence of the Capitoline Hill never existed.
Eros dans l’anthroponymie grecque
Authors: Striano Araceli
Published: August 2017

The history of Greek personal names (PN) related to the theonym Eros is striking.1 Despite being one of the most important gods, Eros, along with Aphrodite, is largely absent from Greek proper names in the archaic and classical periods. Later, however, and especially under Rome, there is a remarkable increase in PN at Rome and Pompeii, as well as in Hispania. The reason for the absence of Eros in early Greek names is most likely the sense of the Greek term ἔρως as ‘passionate love’, whereas its increased popularity in Hellenistic and Roman times reflects the more genial representation of the god of love in statues and reliefs.
Entangled Travellers
Authors: van den Boogert Maurits H.
Published: August 2017

This article offers an analysis of one of the best known eighteenth-century Dutch accounts of the Middle East, the Reizen (Travels) of Johannes Heyman and Johan Ægidius van Egmond van de Nijenburg. On the basis of parts of Heyman’s correspondence which have not been studied before, we will reconstruct both his itinerary and that of Van Egmond. The role of the nominal editor of the volume, J.W. Heyman, will also be examined for the first time.
Revisionism, Scepticism, and the Non-Belief Theory of Hinge Commitments
Authors: Ranalli Chris
Published: August 2017

In his recent work, Duncan Pritchard defends a novel Wittgensteinian response to the problem of radical scepticism. The response makes essential use of a form of non-epistemicism about the nature of hinge commitments. According to non-epistemicism, hinge commitments cannot be known or grounded in rational considerations, such as reasons and evidence. On Pritchard’s version of non-epistemicism, hinge commitments express propositions but cannot be believed. This is the non-belief theory of hinge commitments (NBT). One of the main reasons in favour ofNBTover rival anti-sceptical Wittgensteinian views is that it has less theoretical costs and revisionary consequences than its rivals. In this paper, I argue thatNBTfares at least as bad as its rivals in terms of its theoretical costs and revisionism. In particular, I argue thatNBTis inconsistent with certain cases of philosophical disagreement; that it faces worries with mental-state scepticism; and that it faces difficulties in explaining how we can represent ourselves as committed to hinge commitments.
The Analog Data Assimilation
Authors: Lguensat Redouane , Tandeo Pierre , Ailliot Pierre , Pulido Manuel , Fablet Ronan
Published: August 2017

In light of growing interest in data-driven methods for oceanic, atmospheric, and climate sciences, this work focuses on the field of data assimilation and presents the analog data assimilation (AnDA). The proposed framework produces a reconstruction of the system dynamics in a fully data-driven manner where no explicit knowledge of the dynamical model is required. Instead, a representative catalog of trajectories of the system is assumed to be available. Based on this catalog, the analog data assimilation combines the nonparametric sampling of the dynamics using analog forecasting methods with ensemble-based assimilation techniques. This study explores different analog forecasting strategies and derives both ensemble Kalman and particle filtering versions of the proposed analog data assimilation approach. Numerical experiments are examined for two chaotic dynamical systems: the Lorenz-63 and Lorenz-96 systems. The performance of the analog data assimilation is discussed with respect to classical model-driven assimilation. A Matlab toolbox and Python library of the AnDA are provided to help further research building upon the present findings.
A Comparison of the Downstream Predictability Associated with ET and Baroclinic Cyclones
Authors: Torn Ryan D.
Published: August 2017

The impact of the extratropical transition (ET) of tropical cyclones and baroclinic cyclogenesis in the western North Pacific (WNP), Atlantic, and southern Indian Ocean (SIO) basins on the predictability of the downstream midlatitude flow is assessed using 30 years of cases from the Global Ensemble Forecast System (GEFS) Reforecast, version 2. In all three basins, ET is associated with statistically larger 500-hPa geopotential height forecast standard deviation (SD) compared to the forecast climatology. The higher SD values originate from where the TC enters the midlatitudes and spread downstream at the group velocity of the associated wave packet. Of the three basins, WNP ET is associated with the largest amplitude and longest-lasting SD anomalies. Forecasts initialized 2–4 days prior to the onset of ET have larger SD anomalies compared to forecasts initialized during or after the onset of ET. By contrast, the region of positive SD anomaly associated with winter baroclinic cyclones is confined to the upstream trough, with fall cyclones exhibiting some downstream propagation characteristics similar to ET. The ET cases with the larger downstream SD anomaly are characterized by a more amplified ridge downstream of the TC as it enters the midlatitudes. By contrast, ET cases with an upstream trough, large TC position variability at the onset of ET, latent heat release, or upper-tropospheric PV advection by the irrotational wind are not characterized by significantly larger downstream SD compared to cases without an upstream trough or smaller values of these quantities.
Gain Form of the Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter and Its Relevance to Satellite Data Assimilation with Model Space Ensemble Covariance Localization
Authors: Bishop Craig H. , Whitaker Jeffrey S. , Lei Lili
Published: August 2017

To ameliorate suboptimality in ensemble data assimilation, methods have been introduced that involve expanding the ensemble size. Such expansions can incorporate model space covariance localization and/or estimates of climatological or model error covariances. Model space covariance localization in the vertical overcomes problematic aspects of ensemble-based satellite data assimilation. In the case of the ensemble transform Kalman filter (ETKF), the expanded ensemble size associated with vertical covariance localization would also enable the simultaneous update of entire vertical columns of model variables from hyperspectral and multispectral satellite sounders. However, if the original formulation of the ETKF were applied to an expanded ensemble, it would produce an analysis ensemble that was the same size as the expanded forecast ensemble. This article describes a variation on the ETKF called the gain ETKF (GETKF) that takes advantage of covariances from the expanded ensemble, while producing an analysis ensemble that has the required size of the unexpanded forecast ensemble. The approach also yields an inflation factor that depends on the localization length scale that causes the GETKF to perform differently to an ensemble square root filter (EnSRF) using the same expanded ensemble. Experimentation described herein shows that the GETKF outperforms a range of alternative ETKF-based solutions to the aforementioned problems. In cycling data assimilation experiments with a newly developed storm-track version of the Lorenz-96 model, the GETKF analysis root-mean-square error (RMSE) matches the EnSRF RMSE at shorter than optimal localization length scales but is superior in that it yields smaller RMSEs for longer localization length scales.
What’s in a #Name? An Experimental Study Examining Perceived Credibility and Impact of Winter Storm Names
Authors: Rainear Adam M. , Lachlan Kenneth A. , Lin Carolyn A.
Published: August 2017

The practice of naming winter storms has generated a large amount of discussion within the meteorology community of late. While storm naming has typically been reserved for tropical systems, some media organizations in the United States recently began naming winter storms but oftentimes using differing criteria. Anecdotal comments have labeled this practice as a marketing initiative and other forecasting organizations have criticized The Weather Channel for naming storms (Palmer), but little to no research has investigated whether naming winter storms serves useful to forecasters, practitioners, and the general public. The purpose of this study is twofold. First, the hope is to further the discussion and investigation of naming winter storms. This study provides empirical evidence that suggests that little difference exists between individual perceptions dependent on whether a name is used or the type of name used. The results indicate that individuals do not differ in levels of perceived severity or susceptibility toward a fictional winter storm dependent on the type of name used. Similarly, perceptions of the credibility of media organizations do not change dependent on the storm name. Second, this study discusses the implications of the results with respect to the current storm naming process and provide future areas of exploration, which can further an understanding of the practice.
Roles and Responsibilities of White Allies: Implications for Research, Teaching, and Practice
Authors: Spanierman Lisa B. , Smith Laura
Published: August 2017

In this article the authors introduce the Major Contribution addressing the roles and responsibilities of White allies in counseling psychology and related fields. To provide context for the three articles that follow, the authors define White allies, describe potential pitfalls and roadblocks for psychologists involved in racial justice ally efforts, and note scholarly criticisms of White ally work. The authors provide a brief overview of each of the three articles that comprise the Major Contribution, all of which apply concepts associated with White allyship to multicultural psychology research, education, and clinical practice.
Make It Personal: A Qualitative Investigation of White Counselors’ Multicultural Awareness Development
Authors: Atkins Shawna L. , Fitzpatrick Marilyn R. , Poolokasingham Gauthamie , Lebeau Mariane , Spanierman Lisa B.
Published: August 2017

In this qualitative research study, we explored the multicultural awareness development of 12 multiculturally adept non-Latino White counselors. Using a grounded theory approach, we found that early personal experience with diversity was the most important contributing factor in developing understanding and empathy for oppression among White counselors. This factor appeared to lay the foundation for an ongoing personal initiative to develop multicultural awareness. Subsequently, counselors tried to maximize what they could learn from their culturally diverse clients, work environments, coursework, supervision, and mentoring opportunities. Their personal initiative also inspired them to persevere despite the difficult emotions and conflict inherent in this developmental process. Results suggest the need to incorporate personally transformative experiences in counselor training and to prepare counselors for the emotional challenges of multicultural awareness development.
Confronting White Hegemony: A Moral Imperative for the Helping Professions
Authors: Spanierman Lisa B. , Smith Laura
Published: August 2017

In this article, we respond to observations offered by Sue, Cross and Reinhardt, and Helms regarding the Major Contribution on White racial justice allyship. We focus on three interrelated themes that emerged across the reactants’ comments: (a) the field has made some progress since the early 1990s, but much more is needed, (b) White allies are few and far between, and (c) there is a moral imperative for the field to disrupt current training models that reinforce color-blind racial ideology. We conclude with some preliminary ideas on possible ways forward.
Contracting social services in China: The case of the Integrated Family Services Centres in Guangzhou
Authors: Kwan Chan Chak , Lei Jie
Published: August 2017

This article uses the Integrated Family Services Centres (IFSCs) as an example to illustrate the contractual relationship between the state and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the capacities of government officials to implement the contracting-out of services in China. The data from 12 focus groups in 2015 indicated that local governments treated IFSCs as foot soldiers by asking them to fulfil duties beyond their service contracts. Moreover, Guangzhou government’s fragmented service evaluation arrangements and workload-oriented criteria were unable to effectively assess the impact of social work practices. The study concludes that appropriate legislation is required to safeguard the rights of NGOs.
Anti-EDAR Agonist Antibody Therapy Resolves Palate Defects in Pax9-/- Mice
Authors: Jia S. , Zhou J. , Wee Y. , Mikkola M.L. , Schneider P. , D’Souza R.N.
Published: August 2017

To date, surgical interventions are the only means by which craniofacial anomalies can be corrected so that function, esthetics, and the sense of well-being are restored in affected individuals. Unfortunately, for patients with cleft palate—one of the most common of congenital birth defects—treatment following surgery is prolonged over a lifetime and often involves multidisciplinary regimens. Hence, there is a need to understand the molecular pathways that control palatogenesis and to translate such information for the development of noninvasive therapies that can either prevent or correct cleft palates in humans. Here, we use the well-characterized model of the Pax9−/− mouse, which displays a consistent phenotype of a secondary cleft palate, to test a novel therapeutic. Specifically, we demonstrate that the controlled intravenous delivery of a novel mouse monoclonal antibody replacement therapy, which acts as an agonist for the ectodysplasin (Eda) pathway, can resolve cleft palate defects in Pax9−/− embryos in utero. Such pharmacological interventions did not reverse the arrest in tooth, thymus, and parathyroid gland development, suggesting that the relationship of Pax9 to the Eda/Edar pathway is both unique and essential for palatogenesis. Expression analyses and unbiased gene expression profiling studies offer a molecular explanation for the resolution of palatal defects, showing that Eda and Edar-related genes are expressed in normal palatal tissues and that the Eda/Edar signaling pathway is downstream of Pax9 in palatogenesis. Taken together, our data uncover a unique relationship between Pax9 and the Eda/Edar signaling pathway that can be further exploited for the development of noninvasive, safe, and effective therapies for the treatment of cleft palate conditions and other single-gene disorders affecting the craniofacial complex.
The battle over flexibilization in post-communist transitions: Labor politics in Poland and the Czech Republic, 1989–2010
Authors: Sil Rudra
Published: August 2017

In post-communist transitions, given the steepness of union decline and the inheritance of rigid communist-era Labor Codes, a convenient way to compare the relative efficacy of organized labor is to assess its ability to contain the push for ‘flexibilization’ in the revision of labor regulations. This article compares Poland and the Czech Republic (1989–2010), where important differences emerged in revised Labor Codes in such areas as dismissals, fixed-term contracts, collective bargaining, and union rights. In all these aspects, Czech labor did significantly better in resisting flexibilization. The explanation rests on the evolution of a legacy union in the Czech Republic that was able to concentrate labor’s resources and coordinate with an electorally viable set of left parties to secure their backing for labor’s agenda. This was not possible in Poland given the deep divisions within organized labor and the shifting fortunes of left parties in a more volatile party system. The cohesiveness of labor and the viability of left parties do not explain variation in labor power everywhere. They do, however, jointly constitute a portable mechanism that enhances the strength of organized labor in post-communist countries and possibly even in late-developing countries marked by market reforms and democratic contestation.
Investigating the Impact of edTPA Professional Development on Classroom Practice and Student Teaching Experience
Authors: Kissau Scott , Hart Laura C. , Algozzine Bob
Published: August 2017

In an era of increased teacher accountability, teacher preparation programs across the country are faced with increasing pressure to adopt rigorous and high stakes performance-based assessments, such as edTPA, that provide data-based evidence that their candidates are ready to teach upon program completion. Furthermore, in response to new accreditation standards for teacher training programs established by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation, colleges of education are now required to demonstrate enduring and mutually beneficial partnerships with K-12 partners. Given the influence of the K-12 cooperating teacher (CT) on candidate classroom practice, providing professional development (PD) to CTs on edTPA represents a possible means of accomplishing both goals. This study examined the impact of an edTPA PD workshop designed specifically for CTs on CT practice and candidate edTPA scores. Results suggest that candidates placed with CTs who have received edTPA PD can benefit from increased CT knowledge about the edTPA assessment.
Prosody of Dual-focus in German: Interaction between Focus and Phrasing
Authors: Wang Bei , Féry Caroline
Published: August 2017

This paper studies the prosodic realization of dual-focus in German, that is, two foci in a single sentence, with special consideration of the interaction between focus assignment and phrasing. In a production experiment, dual-focus was compared with its initial, final, and all-new counterparts in sentences with subject NPs and VPs of different lengths. The results showed that there were three different patterns of dual-focus realization: (1) The most frequent one was the two-peak pattern (57.8%), that is, a falling tone on both focused words and compressed and lowered pitch in-between; (2) the second most frequent was the two-phrase realization (23.5%), in which both foci were also realized as a falling tone, but in this case, a high boundary tone was inserted after the subject NP; (3) the least frequent pattern was the hat-pattern (18.7%), consisting of a rising tone on the first focus and a falling tone on the second one while the pitch in-between is kept as a high plateau. This was applied mostly in utterances containing a short subject NP. We interpret these results in terms of optional prosodic phrasing. A sentence with two foci can be realized in one or two intonation phrases, but in both cases, the focus is assigned within the prosodic domain derived from syntax. These results show that Culminativity, the principle requiring a one-to-one correspondence between prosodic domains and their heads, is violable in German. Two equally prominent pitch accents are allowed to co-exist in one intonation phrase. Finally, the metrical structure of dual-focus speaks for a recursive structure of German prosody.
Adaptation of the “Indicateurs de Durabilité des Exploitations Agricoles (IDEA)” method for assessing sustainability of farms in the lower valley of Ouémé River in the Republic of Benin
Authors: Agossou Gaston , Gbehounou Gualbert , Zahm Frédéric , Agbossou Euloge K
Published: August 2017

The Indicateurs de Durabilité des Exploitations Agricoles (IDEA) method was adapted and used to study the sustainability of farms in the Ouémé lower valley in the Republic of Benin. The IDEA survey was tested among a sample of farmers, through discussion groups at village level and via interviews with resource staff. The data collected were then subjected to binomial tests and results from the interviews subject to Student t-test. The study showed that some units of sustainability in the initial version of IDEA are applicable in the study area without modification. Other units, such as permanent or temporary grassland, were rejected as they were not considered relevant by village assemblies. Some elementary units, such as the spatial units of the same crop (indicator A6: size of plots), were reformulated to meet the local context. Finally, the scores for some sustainability indicators, such as C1 (economic viability), were adjusted to meet the local context. With further modification, the adapted version of the IDEA method could be used in other agro-ecological zones in Benin and Africa.
Transitioning From Paper to Digital: State Statutory and Regulatory Frameworks for Health Information Technology
Authors: Schmit Cason , Sunshine Gregory , Pepin Dawn , Ramanathan Tara , Menon Akshara , Penn Matthew
Published: August 2017

Objectives:

In all health system sectors, electronic health information (EHI) is created, used, released, and reused. We examined states’ efforts to address EHI uses in law to provide an understanding of the EHI legal environment.

Methods:

Attorney researchers used WestlawNext to search for EHI-related statutes and regulations of the US states, US territories, and the District of Columbia in effect as of January 2014. The researchers independently catalogued provisions by the EHI use described in the law. Researchers resolved discrepancies through peer review meetings and recorded the consensus codes for each law.

Results:

This study identified 2364 EHI-related laws representing 49 EHI uses in 54 jurisdictions. A total of 18 EHI uses were regulated by ≥10 jurisdictions. More than 750 laws addressed 2 or more EHI uses. Jurisdictions varied by the number of EHI laws in effect, with a mean of 44 laws. Texas had the most EHI laws (n = 145). Hawaii and South Carolina had the fewest (n = 14 each).

Conclusions:

The EHI legal landscape is complex. The large quantity and diversity of laws complicate legal analysis, likely delay implementation of public health solutions, and might be detrimental to the development of emerging health information technology. Research is needed to understand the effect of EHI-related laws.
Phase of Illness in palliative care: Cross-sectional analysis of clinical data from community, hospital and hospice patients
Authors: Mather Harriet , Guo Ping , Firth Alice , Davies Joanna M , Sykes Nigel , Landon Alison , Murtagh Fliss EM
Published: August 2017

Background:

Phase of Illness describes stages of advanced illness according to care needs of the individual, family and suitability of care plan. There is limited evidence on its association with other measures of symptoms, and health-related needs, in palliative care.

Aims:

The aims of the study are as follows. (1) Describe function, pain, other physical problems, psycho-spiritual problems and family and carer support needs by Phase of Illness. (2) Consider strength of associations between these measures and Phase of Illness.

Design and setting:

Secondary analysis of patient-level data; a total of 1317 patients in three settings. Function measured using Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Scale. Pain, other physical problems, psycho-spiritual problems and family and carer support needs measured using items on Palliative Care Problem Severity Scale.

Results:

Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Scale and Palliative Care Problem Severity Scale items varied significantly by Phase of Illness. Mean function was highest in stable phase (65.9, 95% confidence interval = 63.4–68.3) and lowest in dying phase (16.6, 95% confidence interval = 15.3–17.8). Mean pain was highest in unstable phase (1.43, 95% confidence interval = 1.36–1.51). Multinomial regression: psycho-spiritual problems were not associated with Phase of Illness ( χ2 = 2.940, df = 3, p = 0.401). Family and carer support needs were greater in deteriorating phase than unstable phase (odds ratio (deteriorating vs unstable) = 1.23, 95% confidence interval = 1.01–1.49). Forty-nine percent of the variance in Phase of Illness is explained by Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Scale and Palliative Care Problem Severity Scale.

Conclusion:

Phase of Illness has value as a clinical measure of overall palliative need, capturing additional information beyond Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Scale and Palliative Care Problem Severity Scale. Lack of significant association between psycho-spiritual problems and Phase of Illness warrants further investigation.
Acute hypertensive response in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage pathophysiology and treatment
Authors: Qureshi Adnan I , Qureshi Mushtaq H
Published: August 2017

Acute hypertensive response is a common systemic response to occurrence of intracerebral hemorrhage which has gained unique prominence due to high prevalence and association with hematoma expansion and increased mortality. Presumably, the higher systemic blood pressure predisposes to continued intraparenchymal hemorrhage by transmission of higher pressure to the damaged small arteries and may interact with hemostatic and inflammatory pathways. Therefore, intensive reduction of systolic blood pressure has been evaluated in several clinical trials as a strategy to reduce hematoma expansion and subsequent death and disability. These trials have demonstrated either a small magnitude benefit (second intensive blood pressure reduction in acute cerebral hemorrhage trial and efficacy of nitric oxide in stroke trial) or no benefit (antihypertensive treatment of acute cerebral hemorrhage 2 trial) with intensive systolic blood pressure reduction compared with modest or standard blood pressure reduction. The differences may be explained by the variation in intensity of systolic blood pressure reduction between trials. A treatment threshold of systolic blood pressure of ≥180 mm with the target goal of systolic blood pressure reduction to values between 130 and 150 mm Hg within 6 h of symptom onset may be best supported by current evidence.
Materialism, Temporal Orientation, and Well-Being
Authors: Watson David C.
Published: August 2017

The research is an exploration of temporal orientation (past, present, and future) and materialism. Temporal orientation has been related to negative outcomes in the case of past orientation and both positive and negative outcomes with the present or future temporal focus. Given the well-established relationship between low-subjective well-being and materialism, it is hypothesized that materialism will be associated with past- and present-fatalistic temporal focus. Two studies were conducted using self-report with samples of 406 and 409 university students using measures of materialism, temporal orientation, and subjective well-being. The results indicated that materialism was correlated with past temporal orientation. Past-negative, rather than past-positive experiences were associated with materialism. Focus on present fatalism was also related to materialism. Past-negative and past temporal orientation was found to mediate the relationship between subjective well-being and materialism.
Acute Leukemia in Horses
Authors: Cooper Carina J. , Keller Stefan M. , Arroyo Luis G. , Hewson Joanne , Kenney Daniel , Bienzle Dorothee
Published: August 2017

Leukemia is broadly divided into acute and chronic lymphocytic and myeloid types based on the proportion of blasts, morphology of cells, and expression of specific antigens on neoplastic cells. Classifying leukemia in horses can be challenging if blasts predominate and since few antibodies to identify cell types are available. The objective of this study was to describe in detail the clinical and pathologic features of acute leukemia in horses. Twelve horses ranging from 0.2 to 25.9 years of age were diagnosed with acute leukemia. Six cases were classified as acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) based on predominance of blasts, lack of granulocytic or monocytic differentiation, and detection of CD3, CD20, and/or CD79a antigens by immunohistochemistry. Six other cases were classified as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with myelomonocytic ( n = 4), basophilic ( n = 1), and eosinophilic ( n = 1) differentiation based on > 20% bone marrow blasts and partial leukocytic differentiation. Reactivity with antibodies to Iba-1/AIF-1, CD172a, and CD163 was determined for all cases of AML. Eleven horses had thrombocytopenia, 10 had neutropenia, 8 had anemia, all had blasts on blood films, and none had leukocytosis. Ten horses had increased serum acute phase proteins. Bone marrow cellularity ranged from 30% to 100%, and the proportion of blasts ranged from 80% to 100% and 30% to 60% in ALL and AML, respectively. Horses were severely ill at diagnosis and euthanized within days or weeks. Unique features of acute leukemia in horses compared to other species were variable lymphocyte antigen expression (ALL) and frequent inflammation (ALL and AML).
Spontaneous, Experimentally Induced, and Transmissible AA Amyloidosis in Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Nakayama Yumi , Kamiie Junichi , Watanabe Gen , Suzuki Kazuhiko , Murakami Tomoaki
Published: August 2017

The authors describe a spontaneous case of amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis in an adult female Japanese quail ( Coturnix japonica). The bird developed AA amyloidosis secondary to chronic peritonitis caused by a Gram-negative bacillus infection. Mild amyloid deposition was also identified in the intestinal tract of apparently healthy adult individuals, suggesting that quail may develop intestinal amyloidosis with age. Based on these observations, it was hypothesized that quail can develop AA amyloidosis following inflammatory stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Therefore, adult quail were repeatedly injected with LPS and the development of AA amyloidosis was confirmed. The amyloid deposition in this model increased when quail amyloid was intravenously injected as an amyloid-enhancing factor. The experiments were repeated with young quail, but amyloid deposits were not observed following LPS injections. However, AA amyloidosis did develop when quail amyloid was injected in addition to LPS. These results indicated that adult quail develop AA amyloidosis after inflammatory stimulation with LPS. Furthermore, quail AA amyloidosis was shown to have transmissibility regardless of age. Interestingly, the authors found that administration of chicken amyloid fibrils also induced AA amyloidosis in young quail. This is the first report of cross-species transmission of avian AA amyloidosis.
Fitting in to Move Forward
Authors: Lewis Karyn L. , Stout Jane G. , Finkelstein Noah D. , Pollock Steven J. , Miyake Akira , Cohen Geoff L. , Ito Tiffany A.
Published: August 2017

Social science researchers have increasingly focused on understanding the precursors to gender disparities favoring men in the physical sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics (pSTEM). In the current work, we hypothesized that the core social need to belong explains persistence in pSTEM for women more so than for men. We conducted three field studies with data from close to 3,000 participants bridging a wide span of higher education levels and differing pSTEM fields. In each study, we found gender disparities on sense of belonging in pSTEM favoring men. Moreover, sense of belonging explained persistence intentions for both women and men in one study and explained persistence intentions and actual persistence in pSTEM coursework for women, more so than for men, in the other two studies, even after controlling for two conventional predictors of academic achievement (self-efficacy and exam performance). These results highlight the role of belonging in gender differences in pSTEM persistence and indicate STEM educators should strive to create inclusive learning environments for all students. Additional online materials for this article are available on PWQ’ s website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/0361684317720186 . Online slides for instructors who want to use this article for teaching are available on PWQ's website at http://journals.sagepub.com/page/pwq/suppl/index
Level 2 Screening With the PDD Behavior Inventory: Subgroup Profiles and Implications for Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Cohen Ira L. , Liu Xudong , Hudson Melissa , Gillis Jennifer , Cavalari Rachel N. S. , Romanczyk Raymond G. , Karmel Bernard Z. , Gardner Judith M.
Published: August 2017

The PDD Behavior Inventory (PDDBI) has recently been shown, in a large multisite study, to discriminate well between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other groups when its scores were examined using a machine learning tool, Classification and Regression Trees (CART). Discrimination was good for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children; generalized across clinical diagnostic sites; and agreed well with Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) classifications. Results also revealed three subtypes of ASD: minimally verbal, verbal, and atypical that differed in developmental history, behavior profiles, and biomedical findings. Seven subtypes of Not-ASD children were identified, two of which were relatively common. Three of the remaining five relatively rare Not-ASD subgroups had highly atypical profiles marked either by extreme aggressiveness or by extreme ritualistic behaviors. PDDBI profiles of these rare subgroups were not previously characterized. In this study, profiles of all CART subgroups based on parent and teacher PDDBIs are described, along with their implications for diagnosis and assessment.
Engineered fish scale gelatin: An alternative and suitable biomaterial for tissue engineering
Authors: Manikandan A , Thirupathi Kumara Raja S , Thiruselvi T , Gnanamani A
Published: August 2017

This study explores the suitability of the fish scale gelatin as an alternative for biomaterial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In brief, collagen extracted from fish scales converted to gelatin with required bloom strength for its suitability for further modification with phenolic acids. Dihydroxy phenolic acid (caffeic acid) is tethered to the fish scale gelatin using carbodiimide chemistry. Characterization studies suggested and confirmed the change of the fish scale gelatin to phenolic acid modified gelatin. Further, physical, thermal, mechanical, biodegradable, and cytocompatible properties phenolic acid modified gelatin studied in detail. Results displayed that modification of fish scale gelatin with dihydroxy phenolic acid imparts mechanical, biodegradability, and cytocompatible properties as expected. Micro–computed tomography analysis of phenolic acid modified gelatin demonstrates the appreciable porous structures which facilitate the adherence and proliferation of cells. In conclusion, phenolic acid modified gelatin shows the suitability and also as an alternative to the existing synthetic and other natural materials for tissue engineering research.
A Microcosting Study of Establishing a Baby Café® in Texas
Authors: Delgado Rigoberto I. , Gill Sara L.
Published: August 2017

Background:

This article focuses on the costs of opening and running a Baby Café. A Baby Café is an intervention that focuses on providing peer-to-peer support for breastfeeding mothers.

Research aim:

This study aimed to estimate the costs of establishing and running a Baby Café.

Methods:

The authors used a microcosting approach to identifying costs using the case of a Baby Café located in San Antonio, Texas, and modeled after other existing cafés in the United States. They also used extensive literature review and conducted an informal interview with a manager of an existing Baby Café in the United States to validate our cost data. The cost analysis was done from the provider perspective.

Results:

Costs of starting a Baby Café were $36,000, whereas annual operating costs totaled $47,000. Total discounted costs for a 5-year period amounted to $250,000, resulting in a cost per Baby Café session of $521 and cost per mother of $104. Varying the number of sessions per week and number of mothers attending each session, the discounted cost per Baby Café session ranged between $460 and $740 and the cost per mother varied between $65 and $246.

Conclusion:

These findings can be used by policy makers and organizations to evaluate local resource requirements for starting a Baby Café. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention against other breastfeeding promoting initiatives.
Qualitative Analysis of Registered Nurses’ Perceptions of Lactation Assessment Tools: Why and How They Are Completed
Authors: Kuhnly Joan Esper , Chapman Donna J.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Although lactation assessment tools are consistently used in clinical practice, there is no evidence describing registered nurses’ perspectives regarding the purpose and thought processes involved when conducting a breastfeeding assessment.

Research aim:

This study aimed to explore registered nurses’ perceptions on the purpose of lactation assessment tools and the thought processes involved in completing one.

Methods:

Seven focus groups were held from April 2015 through July 2015, in coordination with regional and international lactation and perinatal conferences. Participants included 28 hospital-based registered nurses who routinely used a lactation assessment tool to assess postpartum mothers with healthy breastfeeding newborns. Focus groups were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and content analyzed by two lactation researchers to identify relevant themes and subthemes.

Results:

The analyses identified four different purposes of breastfeeding assessment tools (Teaching and Assessing Simultaneously, Infant Safety, Standardized Practice, and “It’s Your Job!”) and four themes related to the thought processes used in completing the tool (Novice vs. Expert, Real-Time vs. Recalled Documentation, Observation or Not, and “Fudging the Score”).

Conclusion:

Registered nurses found lactation assessment tool completion to be an essential part of their job and that it ensured infant safety, standardized care, maternal instruction, and lactation assessment. Differences in the lactation assessment tool completion process were described, based on staff expertise, workload, hospital policies, and varying degrees of compliance with established protocols. These findings provide critical insight for the development of future breastfeeding assessment tools.