bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The limits of historical sociology: Temporal borders and the reproduction of the ‘modern’ political present
Authors: Lundborg Tom
Published: April 2015

This article develops a poststructuralist critique of the historical sociology of International Relations project. While the historical sociology of International Relations project claims to offer a more nuanced understanding of the state and the international, this article argues that it lacks critical reflection on the notion of a common ground on which ‘history’ and ‘sociology’ can successfully be combined. In order to problematize this ‘ground’, the article turns to Jacques Derrida’s critique of attempts to solve the history–structure dichotomy by finding a perfect combination of historicist and structuralist modes of explanation. Exploring the implications of Derrida’s critique, the article considers how the combination of ‘history’ and ‘sociology’ can be linked to a sovereign politics of time, which reaffirms rather than challenges the limits of the ‘modern’ political present and its relationship to the past, as well as the future. In response, it is suggested that a more radical critique is needed, one that seeks to disrupt the ‘modern’ political present and the contingent ground on which it rests.
Going viral? Comparing parties on social media during the 2014 Swedish election
Authors: Larsson Anders Olof
Published: April 2015

While plenty of research have provided useful insights into political parties’ use of Twitter, comparably few efforts have focused on the arguably more popular Facebook service. This article presents a comparative approach, detailing similar functionalities on each platform and providing statistical analyses of the social media activities undertaken by Swedish political parties during the 2014 elections. Moreover, the types of attention and feedback received by these parties are analyzed, suggesting that while sizable parties are not necessarily the most ardent at using their social media presences, they receive the most attention. The study largely complements previous research, suggesting that larger actors receive the bulk of new media attention on both platforms – with some internal variation. However, the role of the right-wing populist Sweden Democrats is clearly felt throughout, suggesting the apparent prowess of controversial parties in the online context.
Models for estimating projections for disease prevalence and burden: a systematic review focusing on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: McLean Susannah , Barbour Victoria , Wild Sarah , Simpson Colin , Sheikh Aziz
Published: April 2015

Objective

Epidemiological models for estimating the prevalence and burden of disease inform health policy and service planning decisions. Our aim was to describe the challenges in evaluating such models using the example of epidemiological models for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

Two reviewers searched Medline, Embase, CAB Abstracts and World Health Organization (WHO) Databases from 1980 to November 2013 for epidemiological models of COPD prevalence and burden. Two reviewers extracted data and assessed the quality of the studies. We then undertook a descriptive and narrative synthesis of data.

Results

We identified 22 models employing a variety of techniques to calculate the prevalence and/or burden of COPD. Models calculated prevalence and/or mortality or other facet of disease burden using demographics and risk factors or trends, Markov-type modelling and microsimulation modelling. The six models which scored highly on the quality framework were: the Peabody model, which generated estimates of COPD prevalence; the WHO DISMOD II model which produced burden estimates in terms of disability adjusted life years with COPD and life years lost to COPD; the Atsou model which gave the life expectancy gains of individual smokers who quit smoking and associated costs; two Dutch COPD models which produced estimates of mortality and health care costs related to COPD; and the Pichon–Riviere model which gave the costs and cost effectiveness of smoking quit programmes.

Conclusions

The field of chronic disease modelling is burgeoning. As a result, policy makers need to understand how to interpret epidemiological models and their data sources.
Why do workaholics experience depression? A study with Chinese University teachers
Authors: Nie Yingzhi , Sun Haitao
Published: April 2015

This study focuses on the relationships of workaholism to job burnout and depression of university teachers. The direct and indirect (via job burnout) effects of workaholism on depression were investigated in 412 Chinese university teachers. Structural equation modeling and bootstrap method were used. Results revealed that workaholism, job burnout, and depression significantly correlated with each other. Structural equation modeling and bootstrap test indicated the partial mediation role of job burnout on the relationship between workaholism and depression. The findings shed some light on how workaholism influenced depression and provided valuable evidence for prevention of depression in work.
Hay fever in childhood, traits Neuroticism and Conscientiousness as independent predictors of the occurrence of hay fever in adulthood
Authors: Cheng Helen , Deighton Jessica , Wolpert Miranda , Chapman Benjamin P , Kornilaki Ekaterina N , Treglown Luke , Furnham Adrian
Published: April 2015

The study investigated the associations between social and psychological factors in childhood and adulthood and the occurrence of adulthood hay fever in a longitudinal birth cohort study. A total of 5780 participants with data on parental social class, childhood hay fever up to age 7 years, childhood cognitive ability at age 11 years, educational qualifications at age 33 years, personality traits, occupational levels and adult hay fever (all measured at age 50 years) were included in the study. Using logistic regression analyses, results showed that childhood hay fever identified by medical doctors and traits Emotional Stability and Conscientiousness were significantly and independently associated with the occurrence of hay fever in adulthood.
Implicit theories and naïve beliefs: Using the theory of practice architectures to deconstruct the practices of early childhood educators
Authors: Salamon Andi , Sumsion Jennifer , Press Frances , Harrison Linda
Published: April 2015

This article proposes utilising the theory of practice architectures to uncover and make explicit the beliefs and implicit theories of early childhood educators, as well as to examine the conditions out of which they have emerged. The beliefs and implicit theories of early childhood educators influence many early childhood practices and play a significant role in guiding the pedagogical experiences of children. Aimed at identifying elements of practice that constrain and enable praxis, the theory of practice architectures has been effectively applied in tertiary, secondary and primary education, but has had limited use in early childhood education contexts. The article explores its potential for helping educators better articulate their practices and applies the theory to examine a number of discursive, material and social influences that shape (and are shaped by) early childhood practice. Implications for early childhood educators’ praxis are framed in the context of contemporary challenges of early childhood education.
Optimizing Protein in the Older Adult
Authors: Pietro Kevin
Published: April 2015

Aging is associated with specific physiological changes. One change that influences the functionality of an individual is the decrease in skeletal muscle. Research efforts to maintain skeletal muscle through dietary modifications have primarily focused on protein intake, including composition, quantity, and timing. Evidence demonstrates that adequacy, quality, and balance of protein intake are important; however, it should not replace the other dietary needs of the individual. The purpose of this article is to summarize the vast area of research regarding protein consumption in the aging population and place it in context of other nutritional concerns that affect this demographic. Efforts to educate older adults without providing overcomplicated guidelines will reduce the likelihood of individuals feeling overwhelmed, increasing dietary adherence.
Plant-Based Diets for the Prevention and Treatment of Disabling Diseases
Authors: Greger Michael
Published: April 2015

Overestimates of the efficacy of surgical and pharmacological interventions for the prevention and treatment of chronic disease and underestimates of the associated risks may bias physicians and patients against lifestyle medicine interventions that can be cheaper, safer, and more effective by treating the underlying cause of disease. The leading causes of both death and disability in the United States are diet, followed by smoking. The food and tobacco industries share similar tactics to downplay and obfuscate the risks associated with their products, but physicians can educate themselves about the role lifestyle interventions can play in the prevention and treatment of chronic disease. For example, a diet centered around whole plant foods can be used to successfully treat angina and painful diabetic neuropathy and may help prevent low-back pain and Alzheimer’s disease, all perhaps because of a common underlying vascular component. The delay between recognizing the risks of smoking and effective public health measures may have cost millions of lives. Similar delays in stopping dietary diseases may cost millions more.
Global sensitivity analysis for model with random inputs characterized by probability-box
Authors: Song Jingwen , Lu Zhenzhou , Wei Pengfei , Wang Yanping
Published: April 2015

Global sensitivity analysis techniques for computational models with precise random inputs have been studied widely in the past few decades. However, in real engineering application, due to the lack of information, the distributions of input variables cannot be specified uniquely, and other models such as probability-box ( p-box) need to be introduced to characterize the uncertainty of model inputs. Based on the classical variance-based indices and global reliability sensitivity analysis indices, we develop the corresponding sensitivity indices for the p-box type of uncertainty so as to measure the relative importance of each input and propose an efficient computational procedure called extended Monte Carlo simulation, to compute the developed sensitivity indices. The developed sensitivity indices are well interpreted, and the extended Monte Carlo simulation procedure is efficient as the computational cost is the same with the classical Monte Carlo estimators for Sobol’s indices. Two numerical test examples and two engineering applications are introduced for illustrating the developed sensitivity indices and demonstrating the efficiency and effectiveness of the extended Monte Carlo simulation procedure.
Prevention of gestational diabetes in pregnant women with risk factors for gestational diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials
Authors: Madhuvrata P , Govinden Gemma , Bustani R , Song S , Farrell TA
Published: April 2015

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus can be defined as ‘glucose intolerance or hyperglycaemia with onset or first recognition during pregnancy.’

Objective

The objective of our systematic review was to see if there was any intervention that could be used for primary prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus in women with risk factors for gestational diabetes mellitus.

Search strategy

Major databases were searched from 1966 to Aug 2012 without language restriction.

Selection criteria

Randomised trials comparing intervention with standard care in women with risk factors for gestational diabetes were included. Meta-analysis was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement. The primary outcome assessed was the incidence of gestational diabetes.

Data collection and analysis

Data from included trials were extracted independently by two authors and analysed using Rev-Man 5.

Main results

A total of 2422 women from 14 randomised trials were included; which compared diet (four randomised trials), exercise (three randomised trials), lifestyle changes (five randomised trials) and metformin (two randomised trials) with standard care in women with risk factors for gestational diabetes mellitus. Dietary intervention was associated with a statistically significantly lower incidence of gestational diabetes (Odds ratio 0.33, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.76) and gestational hypertension (Odds ratio 0.28, 95% CI 0.09, 0.86) compared to standard care. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus or in the secondary outcomes with exercise, lifestyle changes or metformin use compared to standard care.

Conclusions

The use of dietary intervention has shown a statistically significantly lower incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus and gestational hypertension compared to standard care in women with risk factors for gestational diabetes mellitus.
Bladder problems associated with neurological disease
Authors: Smith Thomas J , Andrews Victoria , Cho Seok , Drinnan Nicholas , Dunsmuir William
Published: April 2015

A neurogenic bladder is defined as dysfunction of the bladder secondary to known disease of, or injury to, the central, peripheral or autonomic nervous systems. Neurogenic bladder dysfunction can cause urinary symptoms for the patient as well as increasing the risk of developing recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder calculi and potentially life-threatening complications including sepsis and renal failure. Therefore, it is important for GPs to have a solid understanding of the aetiology, pathophysiology, assessment and management of this condition in order to improve patients’ symptom control and attempt to prevent long-term complications.
MRI demyelination pattern and clinical course in a child with cerebral X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD)
Authors: Nowak Johannes , Löbel Ulrike , Wölfl Matthias , Schlegel Paul-Gerhardt , Warmuth-Metz Monika
Published: April 2015

The clinical spectrum in boys with X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) ranges from isolated adrenocortical insufficiency and slowly progressive myelopathy to devastating cerebral demyelination. In the individual case, the disease course still remains unpredictable. Research findings suggest an important role of brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesion patterns as prognostic markers for X-ALD. Hence, familiarity with imaging features of childhood X-ALD in combination with clinical manifestation is required in order to stratify affected patients for therapy. We report on MRI findings and clinical course of cerebral X-ALD in a young boy with a rare subtype of white matter demyelination.
The Effects of Rumination Induction on Attentional Breadth for Self-Related Information
Authors: Grol Maud , Hertel Paula T. , Koster Ernst H. W. , De Raedt Rudi
Published: April 2015

The attentional scope model of rumination describes the links between rumination and attentional breadth. The model postulates that a more narrow attentional scope, caused by negative mood, increases the likelihood that thoughts become repetitive on the same topic, which in turn could exacerbate negative mood and lead to more attentional narrowing. We experimentally tested this model by examining the attentional effects of rumination using a newly developed rumination versus problem-solving induction. In the first experiment we found that only at high levels of trait rumination, induction of rumination compared with a problem-solving approach was associated with more attentional narrowing for self-related information relative to other-related information. A second experiment on the relationship between trait rumination and attentional breadth in the absence of induced rumination revealed that especially trait brooding was related to more narrowed attention for self-related information relative to other-related information.
For Ruminators, the Emotional Future Is Bound to the Emotional Past
Authors: Watkins Edward , Grafton Ben , Weinstein Stacey Megan , MacLeod Colin
Published: April 2015

Processing mode theory proposes that rumination is characterized by abstract processing that involves increased thinking about the implications of emotional events, which derives the prediction that heightened ruminative disposition will be associated with elevated emotional extrapolation from current events when formulating future expectancies. To test this, we used a novel Emotional Extrapolation Assessment Task that measured individual differences in the degree to which the emotional tone of initial events influences relative expectancy for subsequent events that are emotionally consistent or inconsistent with this initial event. In Experiment 1, ruminative disposition was associated with increased self-reported expectancy for negative subsequent events relative to positive subsequent events. As predicted, in Experiment 2, heightened ruminative disposition was associated with increased emotional extrapolation, assessed using a comprehension latency performance-based measure.
Low-Velocity Knee Dislocations in Obese and Morbidly Obese Patients
Authors: Vaidya Rahul , Roth Matthew , Nanavati Dhiren , Prince Matthew , Sethi Anil
Published: April 2015

Background:

Knee dislocations from minor trauma have been reported sparsely in the literature. The consensus is that these injuries tend not to be associated with neurovascular compromise.

Purpose:

To present a series of atraumatic knee dislocations in obese and morbidly obese patients and to compare operative versus conservative treatment.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This study included 19 patients (21 knees) who presented with knee dislocation from a low-velocity or ultra low–velocity incident. Charts, radiographs, and magnetic resonance images (MRIs) were reviewed, and patients were reviewed based on their latest follow-up. We included patients in our database from 2001 to 2011 and compared knees of patients who had ligament repair or reconstruction (9 total knees) verses nonoperative treatment (12 total knees). Range of motion, activity levels, and knee laxity information were collected as outcome measures to compare operative and nonoperative results.

Results:

The mean age at presentation was 30.3 years (range, 15-74 years), with 5 men and 14 women. The average body mass index (BMI) was 41.4 kg/m2 (range, 30-64.4 kg/m2), with an average follow-up of 31 months (range, 12-72 months). Five patients (27%) had a popliteal artery injury, and 7 (44.4%) had a peroneal nerve injury at presentation. Four had a vascular repair, 1 had an amputation, and 3 of 7 patients had return of peroneal nerve. Ligament reconstruction was performed on 9 individuals. The average operating time for ligament reconstruction was 183% of that with injury-matched normal-weight patients. Eight operative patients who complied with therapy had an average range of motion of 91.4° (range, 60°-110°). The nonoperative patients had an average range of motion of 60.45° (range, 0°-120°). Two of these patients later required a total knee arthroplasty (3 total knee arthroplasties overall).

Conclusion:

Knee dislocations from minor falls occur in obese patients and are often accompanied by neurovascular complications. While surgical reconstruction is more time consuming and more difficult than that in normal-weight individuals, it may be preferable to nonoperative treatment.
Modeling of non-isothermal flow of a magnetohydrodynamic, viscoplastic fluid during calendering
Authors: Zahid M , Rana MA , Siddiqui AM , Haroon T
Published: April 2015

We have modeled an incompressible, non-isothermal flow of a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) viscoplastic fluid when it passes through the tapered area between two co-rotating rolls. The basic conservation equations like mass, momentum, and energy based on the lubrication approximation theory (LAT) are developed, non-dimensionalized, and solved exactly for the velocity-, pressure gradient-, and temperature-distribution. The value of λ, where the sheet leaves the rolls, is calculated using Simpson’s 1/3 formula for numerical integration along with the modify regula-falsi method. Moreover, quantities of engineering interest such as extreme pressure, the roll separation force and the power transferred to the fluid by the rolls are also computed. The results show that the inclusion of the viscoplastic parameter affects the velocity field, pressure gradient-, and temperature-distribution substantially. It is found that the magnetic field provides a mechanism to control power transmission, separation force, and distance between attachment and detachment points, which are very useful for the calendering process.
Influence of vanadium on structure, mechanical and tribological properties of CrN coatings
Authors: Aissani L. , Nouveau C. , Walock M. J. , Djebaili H. , Djelloul A.
Published: April 2015

This work aims to show the characterisation of Cr–V–N coatings, with the varied amounts of Cr and V. CrN, VN and Cr–V–N coatings were deposited onto silicon and XC100 steel substrates by reactive radio frequency magnetron sputtering and characterised with X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, nanoindentation, pin on disc tribological tests and scratch tests. The residual stress was calculated using the Stoney formula. Compared to the CrN system, the Cr–V–N films presented a rough surface based on pyramidal morphology. A hardness of 19·53 GPa and a friction coefficient of 0·55 were obtained for CrN; in contrast, Cr–V–N coatings presented a weak hardness of 6·23 GPa. In the case of wear against a 100Cr6 ball, the Cr–V–N films were completely removed from the substrate, even though the Cr–V–N coating presented a low friction coefficient (0·39). However, the VN film showed good tribological performance.
Characteristics of cold sprayed dendritic Cu coatings
Authors: Ko K. H. , Choi J. O. , Lee H.
Published: April 2015

The powder morphology (shape and size) of feedstock has a very important role in metal coatings when applied using the cold gas dynamic spray process. In this study, the cold spraying of dendritic Cu powders was investigated. The hydrodynamic processes involved in the dendritic feedstock are complicated to simulate. Compared to particles of the ideal spherical shape, fragmentation of irregularly shaped particles is more severe, and size distribution profiles continuously change in a turbulent stream before the particles arrive at the substrates. Thus, the theoretical effects of particle size on cold sprayed coating properties are nullified. For this reason, it was confirmed that the deposition efficiencies and microscopic morphologies of the dendritic Cu coatings with different particle size distributions were similar to each other because large particles was embedded by the fragmented small particles.
Effect of solvent volume of CuAlO2 thin films for solar cell active layer
Authors: Saravanakannan V. , Radhakrishnan T.
Published: April 2015

Copper aluminium oxide thin films were synthesised using the spray pyrolysis technique for different solvent volumes with a constant Cu/Al molar ratio. The preferential orientation is found along (100) and (102) planes, and the crystallite sizes are in the range from 21·6 to 28·4 nm. The structural studies reveal that the grown films were polycrystalline in nature. Hall effect results confirm that the grown films are p type. When the solvent volume is increased from 10 to 40 mL, the resistivity of the films decreases from 1·12 × 10− 6 to 6·2 × 10− 8 Ω cm. The band gap of the films increases with increasing the solvent volume. The obtained results show that the grown films can be used as the active layer in a solar cell.
Smoldering multiple myeloma
Authors: Rajkumar S. Vincent , Landgren Ola , Mateos María-Victoria
Published: April 2015

Smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) is an asymptomatic clonal plasma cell disorder. SMM is distinguished from monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance by a much higher risk of progression to multiple myeloma (MM). There have been major advances in the diagnosis, prognosis, and management of SMM in the last few years. These include a revised disease definition, identification of several new prognostic factors, a classification based on underlying cytogenetic changes, and new treatment options. Importantly, a subset of patients previously considered SMM is now reclassified as MM on the basis of biomarkers identifying patients with an ≥80% risk of progression within 2 years. SMM has assumed greater significance on the basis of recent trials showing that early therapy can be potentially beneficial to patients. As a result, there is a need to accurately diagnose and risk-stratify patients with SMM, including routine incorporation of modern imaging and laboratory techniques. In this review, we outline current concepts in diagnosis and risk stratification of SMM, and provide specific recommendations on the management of SMM.
Pathogenesis beyond the cancer clone(s) in multiple myeloma
Authors: Bianchi Giada , Munshi Nikhil C.
Published: April 2015

Over the past 4 decades, basic research has provided crucial information regarding the cellular and molecular biology of cancer. In particular, the relevance of cancer microenvironment (including both cellular and noncellular elements) and the concept of clonal evolution and heterogeneity have emerged as important in cancer pathogenesis, immunologic escape, and resistance to therapy. Multiple myeloma (MM), a cancer of terminally differentiated plasma cells, is emblematic of the impact of cancer microenvironment and the role of clonal evolution. Although genetic and epigenetic aberrations occur in MM and evolve over time under the pressure of exogenous stimuli, they are also largely present in premalignant plasma cell dyscrasia such as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), suggesting that genetic mutations alone are necessary, but not sufficient, for myeloma transformation. The role of bone marrow microenvironment in mediating survival, proliferation, and resistance to therapy in myeloma is well established; and although an appealing speculation, its role in fostering the evolution of MGUS or SMM into MM is yet to be proven. In this review, we discuss MM pathogenesis with a particular emphasis on the role of bone marrow microenvironment.
New criteria for response assessment: role of minimal residual disease in multiple myeloma
Authors: Paiva Bruno , van Dongen Jacques J. M. , Orfao Alberto
Published: April 2015

Assessment of minimal residual disease (MRD) is becoming standard diagnostic care for potentially curable neoplasms such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In multiple myeloma (MM), the majority of patients will inevitably relapse despite achievement of progressively higher complete remission (CR) rates. Novel treatment protocols with inclusion of antibodies and small molecules might well be able to further increase remission rates and potentially also cure rates. Therefore, MRD diagnostics becomes essential to assess treatment effectiveness. This review summarizes reports from the past 2 decades, which demonstrate that persistent MRD by multiparameter flow cytometry, polymerase chain reaction, next-generation sequencing, and positron emission tomography/computed tomography, predicts significantly inferior survival among CR patients. We describe the specific features of currently available techniques for MRD monitoring and outline the arguments favoring new criteria for response assessment that incorporate MRD levels. Extensive data indicate that MRD information can potentially be used as biomarker to evaluate the efficacy of different treatment strategies, help on treatment decisions, and act as surrogate for overall survival. The time has come to address within clinical trials the exact role of baseline risk factors and MRD monitoring for tailored therapy in MM, which implies systematic usage of highly sensitive, cost-effective, readily available, and standardized MRD techniques.
Endothelial cells suppress monocyte activation through secretion of extracellular vesicles containing antiinflammatory microRNAs
Authors: Njock Makon-Sébastien , Cheng Henry S. , Dang Lan T. , Nazari-Jahantigh Maliheh , Lau Andrew C. , Boudreau Emilie , Roufaiel Mark , Cybulsky Myron I. , Schober Andreas , Fish Jason E.
Published: April 2015

Key Points

Quiescent endothelial cells secrete extracellular vesicles that can be taken up by monocytes to suppress their activation. MiR-10a is transferred to monocytic cells and inhibits the activation of the proinflammatory nuclear factor κB pathway.
Ebf1 heterozygosity results in increased DNA damage in pro-B cells and their synergistic transformation by Pax5 haploinsufficiency
Authors: Prasad Mahadesh A. J. , Ungerbäck Jonas , Åhsberg Josefine , Somasundaram Rajesh , Strid Tobias , Larsson Malin , Månsson Robert , De Paepe Ayla , Lilljebjörn Henrik , Fioretos Thoas , Hagman James , Sigvardsson Mikael
Published: April 2015

Key Points

Ebf1 regulates DNA repair in a dose-dependent manner. Combined heterozygote loss of Ebf1 and Pax5 predisposes for leukemia development.
Selinexor is effective in acquired resistance to ibrutinib and synergizes with ibrutinib in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Hing Zachary A. , Mantel Rose , Beckwith Kyle A. , Guinn Daphne , Williams Erich , Smith Lisa L. , Williams Katie , Johnson Amy J. , Lehman Amy M. , Byrd John C. , Woyach Jennifer A. , Lapalombella Rosa
Published: April 2015

Key Points

Selinexor exhibits synergy with ibrutinib in CLL. Selinexor is effective in vitro in ibrutinib-resistant CLL.
Global and regional trends in COPD mortality, 1990–2010
Authors: Burney Peter G.J. , Patel Jaymini , Newson Roger , Minelli Cosetta , Naghavi Mohsen
Published: April 2015

Between 1990 and 2010, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) moved from the fourth to third most common cause of death worldwide.

Using data from the Global Burden of Disease programme we quantified regional changes in the number of COPD deaths and COPD mortality rates between 1990 and 2010. We estimated the proportion of the change that was attributable to gross national income per capita and an index of cumulative smoking exposure, and quantified the difference in mortality rates attributable to demographic changes.

Despite a substantial decrease in COPD mortality rates, COPD deaths fell only slightly, from three million in 1990 to 2.8 million in 2010, because the mean age of the population increased. The number of COPD deaths in 2010 would have risen to 5.2 million if the age- and sex-specific mortality rates had remained constant. Changes in smoking led to only a small increase in age- and sex-specific mortality rates, which were strongly associated with changes in gross national income.

The increased burden of COPD mortality was mainly driven by changes in age distribution, but age- and sex-specific rates fell as incomes rose. The rapid response to increasing affluence suggests that changes in COPD mortality are not entirely explained by changes in early life.
Noninvasive identification of left-sided heart failure in a population suspected of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Jacobs Wouter , Konings Thelma C. , Heymans Martijn W. , Boonstra Anco , Bogaard Harm Jan , van Rossum Albert C. , Vonk Noordegraaf Anton
Published: April 2015

Exclusion of pulmonary hypertension secondary to left-sided heart disease (left heart failure (LHF)) is pivotal in the diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). In case of doubt, invasive measurements are recommended. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether it is possible to diagnose LHF using noninvasive parameters in a population suspected of PAH.

300 PAH and 80 LHF patients attended our pulmonary hypertension clinic before August 2010, and were used to build the predictive model. 79 PAH and 55 LHF patients attended our clinic from August 2010, and were used for prospective validation.

A medical history of left heart disease, S deflection in V1 plus R deflection in V6 in millimetres on ECG, and left atrial dilation or left valvular heart disease that is worse than mild on echocardiography were independent predictors of LHF. The derived risk score system showed good predictive characteristics: R2=0.66 and area under the curve 0.93. In patients with a risk score ≥72, there is 100% certainty that the cause of pulmonary hypertension is LHF. Using this risk score system, the number of right heart catheterisations in LHF may be reduced by 20%.

In a population referred under suspicion of PAH, a predictive model incorporating medical history, ECG and echocardiography data can diagnose LHF noninvasively in a substantial percentage of cases.
Mortality among patients with pleural effusion undergoing thoracentesis
Authors: DeBiasi Erin M. , Pisani Margaret A. , Murphy Terrence E. , Araujo Katy , Kookoolis Anna , Argento A. Christine , Puchalski Jonathan
Published: April 2015

Of the 1.5 million people diagnosed with pleural effusion in the USA annually, ∼178 000 undergo thoracentesis. While it is known that malignant pleural effusion portends a poor prognosis, mortality of patients with nonmalignant effusions has not been well studied.

This prospective cohort study evaluated 308 patients undergoing thoracentesis. Chart review was performed to obtain baseline characteristics. The aetiology of the effusions was determined using standardised criteria. Mortality was determined at 30 days and 1 year.

247 unilateral and 61 bilateral thoracenteses were performed. Malignant effusion had the highest 30-day (37%) and 1-year (77%) mortality. There was substantial patient 30-day and 1-year mortality with effusions due to multiple benign aetiologies (29% and 55%), congestive heart failure (22% and 53%), and renal failure (14% and 57%, respectively). Patients with bilateral, relative to unilateral, pleural effusion were associated with higher risk of death at 30 days and 1 year (17%versus47% (hazard ratio (HR) 2.58, 95% CI 1.44–4.63) and 36%versus69% (HR 2.32, 95% CI 1.55–3.48), respectively).

Patients undergoing thoracentesis for pleural effusion have high short- and long-term mortality. Patients with malignant effusion had the highest mortality followed by multiple benign aetiologies, congestive heart failure and renal failure. Bilateral pleural effusion is distinctly associated with high mortality.
Implications of source overcharge for prospect assessment
Authors: Bishop Richard S.
Published: April 2015

A fundamental aspect of prospect evaluation is whether the trap volume or the charge volume limits the volume of trapped hydrocarbons. Traps filled to a leak point are full traps, although I rarely describe them as such. I commonly say “full to spill” but rarely do I hear “full to a leak point.” Why not? A summary of literature from fault leakage, seeps, field studies, and theoretical source-yield calculations illustrates the implication that source overcharge (i.e., the charge exceeding the trap volume) occurs in basins that vary widely in age and tectonic setting. Perhaps surprisingly, this is true for oil and gas fields and for a wide range of source rock quality from rich to lean. The most obvious implication from source overcharge is that the volume of trapped hydrocarbons is limited by the absolute volume of the trap. Less obvious is the recognition that if oil and free gas are available to a trap, gas will displace the oil. Thus, if there are no gas leaks, the trap will contain only gas. If there is preferential leakage of gas, then the trap may contain a gas cap and an oil leg. Furthermore, the occurrence of oils saturated with gas likely indicates selective leakage of free gas. Hydrocarbon contacts (whether oil-water, gas-oil, or gas-water) are interpreted to define the leak or spill point or seal capacity. Thus, instead of using continuous statistical distributions to describe all elements of traps, some elements such as area are more appropriately described as discrete values and a full assessment may be a combination of discrete plus continuous statistical distributions. Overcharge may also lead to different interpretations of risk. Interpreting the trap volume, particularly with leak points, leads to the notion that risk evaluation might consider the number and quality of potential leak points.
Rock-physics-based double-difference inversion for CO2 saturation and porosity at the Cranfield CO2 injection site
Authors: Carter Russell W. , Spikes Kyle T.
Published: April 2015

Large-scale subsurface injection of [Formula: see text] has the potential to reduce emissions of atmospheric [Formula: see text] and improve oil recovery. Studying the effects of injected [Formula: see text] on the elastic properties of the saturated reservoir rock can help to improve long-term monitoring effectiveness and accuracy at locations undergoing [Formula: see text] injection. We used two vintages of existing 3D surface seismic data and well logs to probabilistically invert for the [Formula: see text] saturation and porosity at the Cranfield reservoir using a double-difference approach. The first step of this work was to calibrate the rock-physics model to the well-log data. Next, the baseline and time-lapse seismic data sets were inverted for acoustic impedance [Formula: see text] using a high-resolution basis pursuit inversion technique. The reservoir porosity was derived statistically from the rock-physics model based on the [Formula: see text] estimates inverted from the baseline survey. The porosity estimates were used in the double-difference routine as the fixed initial model from which [Formula: see text] saturation was then estimated from the time-lapse [Formula: see text] data. Porosity was assumed to remain constant between survey vintages; therefore, the changes between the baseline and time-lapse [Formula: see text] data may be inverted for [Formula: see text] saturation from the injection activities using the calibrated rock-physics model. Comparisons of inverted and measured porosity from well logs indicated quite accurate results. Estimates of [Formula: see text] saturation found less accuracy than the porosity estimates.
The Drosophila TIPE family member Sigmar interacts with the Ste20-like kinase Misshapen and modulates JNK signaling, cytoskeletal remodeling and autophagy
Authors: Chittaranjan Suganthi , Xu Jing , Kuzyk Michael , Dullat Harpreet K. , Wilton James , DeVorkin Lindsay , Lebovitz Chandra , Morin Gregg B. , Marra Marco A. , Gorski Sharon M.
Published: April 2015

TNFAIP8 and other mammalian TIPE family proteins have attracted increased interest due to their associations with disease-related processes including oncogenic transformation, metastasis, and inflammation. The molecular and cellular functions of TIPE family proteins are still not well understood. Here we report the molecular and genetic characterization of the Drosophila TNFAIP8 homolog, CG4091/sigmar. Previous gene expression studies revealed dynamic expression of sigmar in larval salivary glands prior to histolysis. Here we demonstrate that in sigmar loss-of-function mutants, the salivary glands are morphologically abnormal with defects in the tubulin network and decreased autophagic flux. Sigmar localizes subcellularly to microtubule-containing projections in Drosophila S2 cells, and co-immunoprecipitates with the Ste20-like kinase Misshapen, a regulator of the JNK pathway. Further, the Drosophila TNF ligand Eiger can induce sigmar expression, and sigmar loss-of-function leads to altered localization of pDJNK in salivary glands. Together, these findings link Sigmar to the JNK pathway, cytoskeletal remodeling and autophagy activity during salivary gland development, and provide new insights into TIPE family member function.
Understanding the molecular mechanisms of human microtia via a pig model of HOXA1 syndrome
Authors: Qiao Ruimin , He Yuyong , Pan Bo , Xiao Shijun , Zhang Xufei , Li Jing , Zhang Zhiyan , Hong Yuan , Xing Yuyun , Ren Jun
Published: April 2015

Microtia is a congenital malformation of the outer ears. Although both genetic and environmental components have been implicated in microtia, the genetic causes of this innate disorder are poorly understood. Pigs have naturally occurring diseases comparable to those in humans, providing exceptional opportunity to dissect the molecular mechanism of human inherited diseases. Here we first demonstrated that a truncating mutation in HOXA1 causes a monogenic disorder of microtia in pigs. We further performed RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis on affected and healthy pig embryos (day 14.25). We identified a list of 337 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the normal and mutant samples, shedding light on the transcriptional network involving HOXA1. The DEGs are enriched in biological processes related to cardiovascular system and embryonic development, and neurological, renal and urological diseases. Aberrant expressions of many DEGs have been implicated in human innate deformities corresponding to microtia-associated syndromes. After applying three prioritizing algorithms, we highlighted appealing candidate genes for human microtia from the 337 DEGs. We searched for coding variants of functional significance within six candidate genes in 147 microtia-affected individuals. Of note, we identified one EVC2 non-synonymous mutation (p.Asp1174Asn) as a potential disease-implicating variant for a human microtia-associated syndrome. The findings advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying human microtia, and provide an interesting example of the characterization of human disease-predisposing variants using pig models.
Comparative analysis for estimation of the height of training wall of convergent stepped spillway
Authors: Wadhai Prafull , Ghare Aniruddha , Deshpande Narendra , Vasudeo Avinash
Published: April 2015

For a dam system with inadequate capacity of spillway, provision of (RCC) roller compacted concrete stepped spillways with converging training walls prove to be an appropriate alternative. Sufficient number of guidelines and literature references are available on the design of straight side walled stepped spillways. The need was felt to conduct the experiments on stepped spillways with convergent training walls, as limited literature is available. This paper presents the comparative analysis of an experimentation conducted on flow over convergent stepped spillways having 1:1 chute slope with 45o convergence angle for different step height ratios leading to different step height variations. The findings are presented in the form of expressions for the maximum depth of flow through the training walls required to accommodate the flow rate. The observed maximum depth of flow along the training walls also compared with estimated maximum height of the training wall as per the criteria available within literature and percentage variation is worked out taking into account the step height variation. Outcomes of the experimental findings are expected to be useful for assessment of height of training walls by the hydraulic design engineers involved in rehabilitation of existing dam system and also in design of the modified spillway system that is necessarily associated with convergent training walls and stepped chute.
The Vietnamese Bauxite Controversy
Authors: Morris-Jung Jason
Published: April 2015

The widespread opposition to government plans for mining bauxite in the Central Highlands of Vietnam that emerged in early 2008 and late 2009 was a major political event. However, rather than emphasizing any particular group or approach to the party-state, the bauxite controversy was remarkable for the wide range of groups and diverse processes it brought together, as well as its progression from an instrumental and embedded politics towards a more performative and oppositional one. This paper provides the first detailed examination of this extraordinary event and the often subtle processes by which it emerged and developed.
Effect of prey concentrations and feed training on production of Hoplias lacerdae juvenile
Authors: LUZ RONALD K. , PORTELLA MARIA CÉLIA
Published: April 2015

The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of daily prey concentration during the first 15 days of active feeding of Hoplias lacerdae larvae, and the juvenile size on the feed training. In the first phase, the larvae received five Artemia nauplii concentrations (P). In the second phase, the juveniles from each treatment were trained to accept formulated diet. Superior growth was related to higher initial daily prey concentrations (900 and 1100 nauplii larvae-1). During feed training, the growth tendency was similar to that verified in the first phase. The lowest values of specific growth rate (SGR) were registered after the introduction of the semi-moist diet used in the feed training. However, the values of SGR recovered along the experiment and similar rates were found among the treatments. Survival, mortality and cannibalism were similar in the different treatments at the end of both phases. It can be concluded that: the prey concentration affects growth of H. lacerdae during the first 15 days of active feeding, and feed training can be initialized with juveniles of about 16 mm of total length.
Fungicide baseline for mycelial sensitivity of Exserohilum turcicum, causal agent of northern corn leaf blight
Authors: De Rossi Roberto Luis , Reis Erlei Melo , Brustolin Ricardo
Published: April 2015

Northern corn leaf blight, caused by Exserohilum turcicum(Et), is one of the major corn diseases which can reduce grain yield and quality. The aim of this study was to determine the mycelial sensitivity of ten Etisolates, five from Argentina and five from Brazil, to six fungicides (carbendazim, captan, fludioxinil, metalaxyl, iprodione and thiram) used in seed treatment. The inhibitory concentration (IC50) was determined by using seven concentrations of the fungicides supplemented to the agar medium. The mycelial colony diameter was measured with a digital caliper. Experimental design was completely randomized with four replicates. Data on the percent mycelial growth inhibition were analyzed by logarithmic regression and the IC50 was calculated. The fungicide iprodione was the most potent, with IC50 < 0.01 mg/L, followed by fludioxonil, IC50 0.31 mg/L, and thiram, 1.37 mg/L. Carbendazim, metalaxyl and captan were classified as non-fungitoxic, showing IC50 > 50 mg/L for all isolates. Although iprodione is the most potent fungicide, it is not used for corn seed treatment. The IC50s obtained in this study can be used as baseline for future monitoring studies of Etsensitivity to fungicides.