bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and cognition in Down syndrome
Authors: Breslin Jennifer , Spanò Goffredina , Bootzin Richard , Anand Payal , Nadel Lynn , Edgin Jamie
Published: January 2014

Aim

Good‐quality sleep is essential for normal learning and memory. Sleep fragmentation and disrupted sleep architecture are commonly observed throughout the lifespan of individuals with Down syndrome, a condition marked by cognitive deficits emerging within the first few months of life. While obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is known to contribute to the loss of sleep quality in Down syndrome, its relation to cognitive and behavioral impairment remains poorly understood.

Method

Using ambulatory polysomnography, we measured sleep in an unreferred community‐based sample of 38 individuals with Down syndrome (15 males, 23 females; mean age 9y 7mo (SD 1y 9mo), range 7–12y). Cognitive outcomes were assessed with the Arizona Cognitive Test Battery, a set of psychometric measures designed and validated for this population.

Results

Among children with Down syndrome, mean Verbal IQ score (p=0.006) was 9 points lower in those with comorbid OSAS (apnea–hypopnea index >1.5) than in those without OSAS, and performance on measures of cognitive flexibility was poorer (p=0.03). In addition, those with OSAS showed increased light‐stage sleep (p=0.009) at the expense of slow‐wave sleep (p=0.04).

Interpretation

These findings demonstrate a relation between OSAS and cognitive outcomes in Down syndrome. More work is required to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the links between poor sleep and impaired cognitive function. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of adequate sleep in typically and atypically developing populations.
Characterization of the metabolic effects of irisin on skeletal muscle in vitro
Authors: Vaughan R. A. , Gannon N. P. , Barberena M. A. , Garcia‐Smith R. , Bisoffi M. , Mermier C. M. , Conn C. A. , Trujillo K. A.
Published: January 2014

Aims

This work explored the effects of irisin on metabolism, gene expression and mitochondrial content in cultured myocytes.

Methods

C2C12 myocytes were treated with various concentrations of irisin for various durations. Glycolysis and oxidative metabolism were quantified by measurement of extracellular acidification and oxygen consumption, respectively. Metabolic gene expression was measured by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and mitochondrial content was assessed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy.

Results

Cells treated with irisin exhibited significantly increased oxidative metabolism. Irisin treatment also significantly increased mitochondrial uncoupling at various doses and durations. Lastly, treatment with irisin also significantly elevated metabolic gene expression including peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ coactivator‐1 alpha (PGC‐1α), nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1), mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), irisin, glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) and mitochondrial uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3) leading to increased mitochondrial biogenesis.

Conclusions

Our observations are the first to document increased metabolism in myocytes through irisin‐mediated induction of mitochondrial biogenesis and uncoupling with corresponding gene expression. These observations support the need for further investigation into the therapeutic and pharmacological effects of irisin, as well as development of irisin‐based therapy.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the efficacy of lixisenatide in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Schmidt L. J. , Habacher W. , Augustin T. , Krahulec E. , Semlitsch T.
Published: January 2014

The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of lixisenatide for treating type 2 diabetes. A systematic search in electronic databases (up to October 2012) was conducted and the manufacturer was contacted regarding unpublished data. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they provided information on at least one of the following outcomes: mortality, health‐related quality of life, hypoglycaemic events, adverse events, change in HbA1c, body weight, blood pressure, gastric emptying, fasting plasma glucose or 2 h postprandial glucose (PPG). Twenty‐six publications and 10 unpublished study reports, relating to 14 RCTs (6156 patients) were included. Eleven studies related to placebo comparisons; active comparators were in three studies. Compared to placebo, lixisenatide significantly reduced HbA1c (−0.52%; 95% CI: −0.64 to −0.39), bodyweight (−0.65 kg; 95% CI: −0.94 to −0.37) and 2‐h PPG level (−4.58 mmol/l; 95% CI: −5.88 to −3.28). There were significantly more symptomatic hypoglycaemic events among lixisenatide compared to placebo‐treated patients (log OR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.32–0.75), but significantly fewer compared to other incretin mimetics. In comparison to exenatide and liraglutide, lixisenatide was more effective in reducing 2 h‐PPG with a better adverse events profile, but it showed a lower reduction in HbA1c and body weight. Lixisenatide improves HbA1c levels and moderately reduces body weight compared to placebo and showed less frequent symptomatic hypoglycaemic and gastrointestinal events and an improvement in PPG control compared to other GLP‐1 agonists. Firm conclusions regarding the performance of lixisenatide compared to other incretin mimetics, however, can not yet be drawn, due to limited data.
New vasoactive peptides in cirrhosis: organ extraction and relation to the vasodilatory state
Authors: Kimer Nina , Goetze Jens Peter , Bendtsen Flemming , Møller Søren
Published: January 2014

Background

Patients with cirrhosis have substantial circulatory imbalance between vasoconstrictive and vasodilating forces. The study of circulatory vasoactive peptides may provide important pathophysiological information. This study aimed to assess concentrations, organ extraction and relations to haemodynamic changes in the pro‐peptides copeptin, proadrenomedullin and pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide (proANP) in patients with cirrhosis.

Materials and methods

Fifty‐four cirrhotic patients and 15 controls were characterized haemodynamically during a liver vein catheterization. Copeptin, proadrenomedullin and proANP were measured in hepatic and renal veins and the femoral artery.

Results

We found no differences in concentrations of copeptin and proadrenomedullin between patients and controls. ProANPs were higher in cirrhotic patients, median 138 pm (25/75 percentiles 101–194) compared with controls, median 91 pm (25/75 percentiles 82–153) P = 0·02. ProANPs were higher in the femoral artery and renal vein, median 140 pm and 116 pm (25/75 percentiles 109–191 and 92–164, respectively), compared with controls, median 99 and 81 (25/75 percentiles 85–146 and 66–123) P = 0·02 and P = 0·007, respectively. We found no extraction of copeptin, proadrenomedullin or proANP over the liver. Copeptin correlated with portal pressure (R = 0·50, P < 0·001). Proadrenomedullin correlated with portal pressure (R = 0·48, P < 0·001) and heart rate (R = 0·36, P < 0·01). ProANP correlated with cardiac output (R = 0·46, P < 0·002) and portal pressure (R = 0·32, P < 0·02). All propeptides correlated with Child score (R > 0·31, P < 0·03).

Conclusions

Pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide is elevated in cirrhosis. Copeptin, proadrenomedullin and proANP are related to portal pressure and seem associated with systemic haemodynamics. These propeptides may participate in development and perpetuation of vasodilatation and hyperdynamic circulation in cirrhosis.
Yoga for addictions: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials
Authors: Posadzki Paul , Choi Jiae , Lee Myeong Soo , Ernst Edzard
Published: January 2014

Background

It has been suggested that yoga may be effective in the management of mental health disorders including addictions.

Objective

To critically evaluate the evidence of effectiveness of yoga as a treatment for addictions.

Methods

Fourteen electronic databases were searched from inception to January 2013. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated any type of yoga against any type of control in individuals with any type of addiction were eligible. Methodological quality was appraised using Cochrane criteria.

Results

Eight RCTs met the eligibility criteria. Most of these RCTs were small with serious methodological flaws. The types of addictions included in these studies were alcohol, drug and nicotine addiction. Seven RCTs suggested that various types of yoga, including hatha yoga (HY), Iyengar yoga, nidra yoga, pranayama or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) plus vinyasa yoga, led to significantly more favourable results for addictions compared to various control interventions. One RCT indicated that a methadone maintenance programme (MMP) plus HY had no effect on drug use and criminal activities compared with MMP plus psychotherapy.

Conclusions

Although the results of this review are encouraging, large RCTs are needed to better determine the benefits of yoga for addiction.
Mechanical and thermal parameters for high‐cycle fatigue characterization in commercial steels
Authors: Curà F. , Sesana R.
Published: January 2014

In the present paper, the fatigue behaviour of two commercial steels has been investigated by means of thermal and mechanical measurements on specimens during fatigue testing.

In particular, the investigated parameters are the surface thermal increment of the specimen and the hysteresis loop area along with the corresponding integrals of the two parameters for a number of cycles. An analytical description was firstly presented, focusing on the relations between surface temperature and hysteresis area. To both verify the theoretical relationships and emphasize the fatigue damage behaviour, an experimental procedure has been set up for mechanical and thermal parameters monitoring. Results have been finally compared in terms of fatigue limit estimation and fatigue parameters evolution.
Superplastic, Quick‐Bonding Endodontic Mixtures and Their Hydration
Authors: Jokanović Vukoman , Čolović Bozana , Jokanović Bojan , Živković Slavoljub
Published: January 2014

The aim of this study was to synthesize and characterize new superplastic endodontic mixtures (named as ALBO‐MPSA) with strongly accelerated hydration rate. Two different ALBO‐MPSA mixtures were prepared using combination of hydrothermal and high‐temperature self‐propagating method. Phase analysis of the mixtures, before and after hydration, was carried out by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), while morphological analysis was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Investigations of mechanical properties showed that new superplastic, quick‐bonding endodontic mixtures with good mechanical properties were obtained (compressive strength after 28 days aging was from 35.7 ± 0.5 and 37.4 ± 0.5 MPa). The final phase compositions after hydration of the mixtures were determined on the base of XRD data, assumed mechanism of hydration and rational chemical analysis. The constitutive phases were tobermorite, portlandite, and amorphous Ca(OH)2, ettringite and amorphous like ettringite phase, gypsum, hydroxyapatite and barite.
Bioactive Glass: An In‐Vitro Comparative Study of Doping with Nanoscale Copper and Silver Particles
Authors: Goh Yi‐Fan , Alshemary Ammar Z. , Akram Muhammad , Abdul Kadir Mohammed Rafiq , Hussain Rafaqat
Published: January 2014

Bioactive glasses (BGs) based on 50SiO2‐45CaO‐5P2O5 system doped with 1, 5, and 10 mol% CuO or Ag2O were separately synthesized using quick alkali sol‐gel method. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis of the samples confirmed the formation of nano‐sized BGs, whereas Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra showed characteristic peaks for silica and phosphate groups. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of the heat‐treated (700°C) samples revealed the presence of crystalline metallic silver phase in all Ag‐doped samples, while the XRD pattern of Cu‐doped and control sample (50Si‐45CaO‐5P2O5) also heat‐treated at 700°C confirmed their amorphous nature. Ultraviolet–visible (UV‐Vis) studies along with Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of Cu and Ag in bioglass. Antibacterial properties of the synthesized BGs were investigated by quantitative viable count method, and the results were related to the ion release profiles of the samples studied by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS). Fast initial release of Ag observed in this study makes Ag‐doped BG a better rapid bacteria‐killing agent than Cu‐doped BG, which exhibited a prolonged release of ions, suggesting that it may be a better candidate for long‐term antibacterial protection.
Authorship Practices in Multi‐Authored Papers in the Natural Sciences at Japanese Universities
Authors: Yukawa Yayoi , Kitanaka Chisato , Yokoyama Mieko
Published: January 2014

This paper examines the practices of natural science researchers and the recognition authors receive in multi‐authored papers at Japanese universities. The “Uniform Requirements for Manuscripts Submitted to Biomedical Journals: Writing and Editing for Biomedical Publication” by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors, which sets global standards for authorship ethics in many natural science fields, notes problems in two areas in particular: with “gift authors” (people who are indicated as authors, but who do not actually contribute to the work) and with “ghost authors” (people, often students or researchers in lower positions, who are not properly represented in the paper even though they make essential contributions to it). We also note the recent complaints by junior researchers about these violations, which are claimed to be harassment or bullying using power differences. Our survey of researchers in natural sciences at 15 top Japanese universities shows that, despite the different specialized fields, few researchers actually meet the gold standard of authorship criteria of proper authorship and about half think that their violation might be condoned. The data are analyzed taking into consideration a particular local context. Through the exploratory research above, we speculate that most natural science researchers in Japan may be either confused about or struggle with the situation where the strict global criteria conflict with specific local cultures that often condone gift and ghost authorships. Those who are already socialized in such local cultures take unethical authorships for granted, while others view it as an intersection of harassment and misconduct.
2012 JSS Award Winner: Book Division “Recovery” from Eating Disorders: Narrative‐Based Clinical Sociology: A Summary by the Author
Authors: Nakamura Hideyo
Published: January 2014

In recent years people with eating disorders have begun to discuss their experiences on the Internet. While attempts to explain eating disorders in contemporary society have concentrated on their etiology as problems of individuals, the family or society, in their postings on the Internet, some people who have recovered discuss eating disorders as “eating problems” caused by excessively strict dieting. Further, they believe they overcame their disorders by consuming regular meals. The present research attempts to shed light on both the conditions surrounding sufferers of eating disorders and the direction that some have taken to affect their recovery. In this article I focus on the narratives of two people who have recovered from bulimia nervosa. I examine why they refer to their illness as an eating problem, rather than accepting conventional explanations. Further, I consider what they are trying to achieve in doing so. Two results were obtained. First, it was determined that, though both of the subjects of this research were familiar with the conventional etiological explanations of eating disorders, they both also criticize the individual, familial and societal interpretations for providing no solution. Second, it became clear, through narratives explaining eating disorders as eating problems that can be solved via eating exercises, that the subjects were attempting to reclaim the means of ending their binging and regurgitation and, more broadly, the right to solve their own problems.
Infant Physiological and Behavioral Responses to a Jealousy Provoking Condition
Authors: Mize Krystal D. , Pineda Melannie , Blau Alexis K. , Marsh Kathryn , Jones Nancy Aaron
Published: January 2014

Recent research has demonstrated a relationship between infants' tonic electroencephalogram (EEG) patterns and approach‐style jealousy responses (Mize & Jones, ). Although it has been found that adults exhibit approach‐style neural activity during jealousy paradigms (Harmon‐Jones, Peterson, and Harris, ), parallel research on neural activity during a jealousy paradigm in infants is lacking from the literature base. The purpose of the current research is to examine EEG patterns of 35 infants (Mean age = 8.92 months old) in a social‐rival paradigm designed to elicit jealousy responses. Consistent with past research, infants demonstrated more approach‐style, jealousy‐related behaviors when their mothers attended to a social‐rival than to a nonsocial rival. Additionally, infants demonstrated approach‐style anterior EEG activity during the social‐rival condition, a pattern that is associated with jealousy. The current findings suggest that the physiological underpinnings for the emotions that motivate the protection of important dyadic relationships are in place early in ontogeny. Therefore, jealousy‐type behaviors and physiological responses begin to be observable as early as 9‐months‐old when maternal attention is lost to a social‐rival.
Mechanisms of propagule release in the carnivorous sponge Asbestopluma occidentalis
Authors: Chu Jackson W.F. , Reiswig Henry M.
Published: January 2014

Carnivorous sponges characteristically inhabit the deep sea, so extensive observations of the biology of living specimens are rare. We report on newly discovered shallow‐water (<30 m depth) populations of the carnivorous sponge Asbestopluma occidentalis and on observations of living adults and larvae from this unique group of sponges. In the Salish Sea, British Columbia, Canada, populations of A. occidentalis exist at depths as shallow as 18 m, where they co‐occur with hexactinellid sponges. Adults with and without embryos (n =127) were collected and easily maintained in the laboratory for several months, allowing continuous examination of live specimens. Parent sponges naturally disassociated their tissue, facilitating larval release and dispersal. Dispersed larvae had actively beating cilia, but no swimming was observed. Larvae settled and attached from several hours to several days post‐release. After larval release, parent sponges reaggregated their disassociated bodies into spherical balls of apparently undifferentiated tissue, which could also disperse and settle. Sexually mature adults were sampled in the field from August to November, with a high proportion of adults containing mature embryos in late November. High‐resolution photography and electron microscopy verified that adults were covered with anisochelae spicules, and used these to capture nauplii of Artemia sp. under experimental conditions; however, time‐lapse photography showed that some captured prey could free themselves with vigorous swimming. The occurrence of abundant shallow‐water populations of A. occidentalis in the Salish Sea provides a rare opportunity to study the evolution and ecology of carnivory in the Porifera.
Morphological evidence for limited sperm production in the enigmatic Tasmanian cave spiderHickmania troglodytes(Austrochilidae, Araneae)
Authors: Michalik Peter , Ramírez Martín J. , Wirkner Christian S. , Lipke Elisabeth
Published: January 2014

The male reproductive systems of spiders are highly diverse in structure across all major spider taxa. Little is known about this organ system in basal araneomorph spiders, especially Austrochiloidea; such knowledge is necessary for a more complete understanding of the evolutionary morphology of the male reproductive system in spiders. In the present study, we describe the male reproductive system of an austrochilid spider, the enigmatic troglophilic Tasmanian cave spiderHickmania troglodytes, using light and electron microscopic techniques. The male reproductive system consists of tubular testes leading into convoluted deferent ducts, which are fused close to the genital opening to an unpaired ejaculatory duct. Spermatogenesis occurs only in the subadult testes, whereas adult testes showed neither spermatogenic stages nor any generative tissue in all investigated specimens. The testes of adult males are drastically reduced in size compared with those of subadult males, but the deferent ducts are filled with large numbers of mature spermatozoa. Thus, our data suggest that males ofH. troglodytesare sperm‐limited, but not necessarily sperm‐depleted as described for certain orb‐weaving spiders. Due to the absence of generative tissue, limited sperm production is permanent (PSL) and probably has an influence on the reproductive strategies in this species. As nearly no data are available on the life history ofH. troglodytes, and in particular information on the phenology of males is lacking, implications of the evolution ofPSLin this species are unclear. Nonetheless, our data on other representatives of Austrochilidae (Austrochilus forsteri,Thaida chepu) and Gradungulidae (Progradungula otwayensis) suggest thatPSLevolved within Austrochiliodea only inH. troglodytesand might be an adaptation to its troglophilic lifestyle.
Popular Education for Water Sustainability: Three Lessons from Reflective Practice
Authors: Oliver Peter , Dennison William C.
Published: January 2014

Between them, the authors of this paper have over sixty years experience in water education working in primary and secondary schools, universities, field study centres, professional development programs; and with community, industry, and government groups, focusing on coastal zones and catchments. Over the last three years, they have undertaken a systematic process of personal and dialogic reflection and deliberation on this experience, particularly in the area of popular education. This paper presents three key water education lessons gained from this iterative process and provides examples to justify the sagacity of this choice. First and foremost, popular water educators really need to know their participants, what is important to them, why, and what they know already. Second, popular water educators should give their participants an opportunity to share with others what they have learned about water. Lastly, metaphorically speaking, popular educators need to focus their practice on the head, the heart, and the hands. Knowledge, emotion, and action are dialectically interrelated. Integrating them in popular water education is a challenging yet satisfying task that can have significant outcomes.
Biogeography, vicariance and conservation of snakes of the neglected and endangered Caatinga region, north‐eastern Brazil
Authors: Guedes Thaís B. , Sawaya Ricardo J. , de C. Nogueira Cristiano
Published: January 2014

Aim

Our aims were to test the predictions of the vicariance model, searching for natural, non‐random biogeographical units using data on snake distributions, and to assess the conservation of biogeographical patterns and underlying processes in the poorly studied Caatinga region.

Location

Caatinga region, north‐eastern Brazil.

Methods

We revised and georeferenced 7352 snake occurrence records at point localities, by direct examination of voucher specimens in zoological collections and revision of literature data. We tested two predictions of the vicariance model via biotic element analysis using two datasets (all taxa and endemics) mapped onto a 1° × 1° square grid across the Caatinga. Finally, we examined the overlap between recovered biogeographical units and spatial patterns of habitat loss and protected area coverage.

Results

We recorded 112 snake species from the Caatinga, of which 22 (20%) are endemics. The predictions of the vicariance model were corroborated by the detection of groups of species with significantly clustered ranges (biotic elements). The analysis with the full dataset detected eight biotic elements, and three endemic biotic elements were found when only using endemics. The three endemic biotic elements correspond to core areas of biotic elements detected with the larger dataset. The average habitat loss for species forming biotic elements was 46%, and was similar among biotic elements. Protected area coverage is different for species from different biotic elements, and most species' ranges are very poorly represented in protected areas.

Main conclusions

The Caatinga harbours a peculiar snake fauna with significantly clustered species ranges concordant with the predictions of the vicariance model. Our results, representing the first formal test of vicariance patterns in the Caatinga, detected poor overlap between biotic elements and protected areas, indicating that biogeographical patterns and processes are largely unprotected in this imperilled and neglected Neotropical region.
Simulation of flash floods in ungauged basins using post‐event surveys and numerical modelling
Authors: Ciervo F. , Papa M.N. , Medina V. , Bateman A.
Published: January 2014

The hydrological and hydraulic processes of the flash flood that affected Atrani village (Amalfi Coast of Southern Italy) on 9 September 2010 are analysed using post‐flood surveys and numerical modelling. Observations in this case are particularly challenging because of the small spatial and temporal scales of the event, relative to the sampling characteristics of conventional rain and discharge measurement networks. Given these aspects, some of the relevant characteristics of the event were deduced by analysing field data that were collected immediately after the event. A width function instantaneous unit hydrograph (WFIUH) rainfall‐runoff model is applied to derive a flow hydrograph for the area immediately upstream of the village. This hydrograph is inputted as an upstream boundary condition for the simulation of the propagation processes. A two‐dimensional innovative hydraulic model is used to reproduce the flood within the village. The use of an unstructured mesh enabled a detailed simulation of water flow within the narrow and winding alleyways of the village. The results of the simulations indicate agreement with the field observations. The implemented approach is suitable for simulating flash floods in similar contexts and, therefore, may be used to predict potential future events.
Synthetic RGDS peptide attenuated lipopolysaccharide/D‐galactosamine‐induced fulminant hepatic failure in mice
Authors: Yin Xinru , Gong Xia , Jiang Rong , Zhang Li , Wang Bin , Xu Ge , Wang Changdong , Wan Jingyuan
Published: January 2014

Background and Aim

Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) is a serious clinic syndrome with extremely poor prognosis and no effective treatment except for liver transplantation. Synthetic RGDS peptide, an inhibitor of integrins, was proved to suppress integrin signals. In this study, we investigated the protection effects of RGDS peptide on lipopolysaccharide/D‐galactosamine (LPS/D‐GalN)‐induced FHF and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

Synthetic RGDS peptide was given intraperitoneally 30 min before LPS/D‐GalN injection. Liver function and the extent of liver injury were analyzed biochemically and pathologically respectively. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were used to detect effectors and signaling molecules.

Results

Pretreatment with synthetic RGDS peptide significantly improved LPS/D‐GalN‐induced mortality, and liver injury as determined by alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities, as well as pathological analysis. In addition, RGDS peptide significantly reduced tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)‐2 production, and decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) and NF‐κB activity. Furthermore, Western blotting indicated that the levels of phospho‐integrin β3, phospho‐focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and phospho‐p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) decreased with RGDS peptide pretreatment.

Conclusion

Together, these data suggest that synthetic RGDS peptide protect against LPS/D‐GalN‐induced FHF by inhibiting inflammatory cells migration and blocking the integrin αVβ3‐FAK‐p38 MAPK and NF‐κB signaling.
Financial Literacy and Neighborhood Effects
Authors: LACHANCE MARIE‐EVE
Published: January 2014

This study uses data from the 2009 and 2012 waves of the National Financial Capability Study to examine the effects of neighborhood characteristics on financial literacy. Controlling for individual characteristics, multivariate regression analysis shows that a zip code's education level has a significant impact on financial literacy. This finding is consistent with social learning as a mechanism of financial knowledge acquisition, with neighborhood education serving as a proxy for the level of financial knowledge of one's social network. Although social effects are not the only possible explanation for this finding, the result is robust even after controlling for a host of other factors such as getting advice from financial professionals, receiving financial education, and living in a zip code with greater employment in the financial industry. This study additionally documents that zip code education effects are present with various savings and credit measures.
Who Buys Fair Trade and Why (or Why Not)? A Random Survey of Households
Authors: TAYLOR JASON E. , BOASSON VIGDIS
Published: January 2014

We conduct a random survey of Michigan (United States) households to gauge consumer behavior toward, and awareness of, fair trade. Around 58% of respondents have heard of fair trade and just over a quarter have knowingly purchased a fair‐trade product. Of the 38% of respondents who indicated a willingness to pay a premium for a fair trade product, the median premium they were willing to pay was around 20%. We find that those who are politically liberal, female, younger, and have attained higher levels of education are willing to pay higher premiums for fair trade, other factors held constant. Respondents who are unwilling to pay a fair trade premium are divided between not doing so because of a belief that all voluntary trade is already fair and a fear of potential unintended negative consequences on workers.
Beyond Door‐to‐Door: The Implications of Invited In‐Home Selling
Authors: HARRISON PAUL , MASSI MARTA , CHALMERS KATHRYN
Published: January 2014

Over the past 20 years, consumer groups and policymakers have expressed concerns about the high‐pressure selling techniques used during in‐home selling, often highlighting the distinction between typical door‐to‐door selling, and the type of selling that occurs when a salesperson is “invited” through a previous interaction to undertake a sales process in the consumer's home. This article explores these high‐pressure selling techniques in the context of the invited in‐home selling (IIHS) of educational software and the consequences in terms of consumer vulnerability and consumer protection policy. We conclude by drawing upon earlier discourse in this field to argue that policy‐makers, consumer advocates and businesses consider a holistic, multi‐dimensional contextualization of consumer vulnerability as a means to consider consumer protection in this, and other contexts.
Annual report of Women's Health Care Committee, Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2013
Authors: Douchi Tsutomu , Wakatsuki Akihiko
Published: January 2014

The activity of the Women's Health Care Committee for 1 year up to June 2013 includes: (i) guides for the management of health care in middle‐aged women; (ii) postoperative women's health care; (iii) survey on the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse; and (iv) survey of postoperative infection in gynecologic surgery. The detailed activity of the four subcommittees is described in the text.
Annual report of Reproductive Endocrinology Committee, Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2013
Authors: Minegishi Takashi , Sugino Norihiro , Ishihara Osamu , Kitawaki Jo , Harada Tasuku , Murakami Takashi
Published: January 2014

The Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology Reproductive Endocrinology Committee summarizes the activities of each subcommittee below from April 2011 to March 2013.

Survey for clinical outcomes of infertility treatment for women with adenomyosis and complications of pregnant women with adenomyosis.

Survey for multiple pregnancies after controlled ovarian stimulation in non‐assisted‐reproductive‐technology infertility treatment cycles: population‐based study in Japan.

Study on the effect of endometriosis management on ovarian reserve.
The validity of serum markers for fibrosis staging in chronic hepatitis B and C
Authors: Li J. , Gordon S. C. , Rupp L. B. , Zhang T. , Boscarino J. A. , Vijayadeva V. , Schmidt M. A. , Lu M. ,   the Chronic Hepatitis Cohort Study (CHeCS) Investigators
Published: January 2014

Assessment of liver fibrosis is critical for successful individualized disease management in persons with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) or chronic hepatitis C (CHC). We expanded and validated serum marker indices to provide accurate, reproducible and easily applied methods of fibrosis assessment. Liver biopsy results from over 284 CHB and 2304 CHC patients in the Chronic Hepatitis Cohort Study (‘CHeCS') were mapped to a F0–F4 equivalent scale. APRI and FIB‐4 scores within a 6‐month window of biopsy were mapped to the same scale. A novel algorithm was applied to derive and validate optimal cut‐offs for differentiating fibrosis levels. For the prediction of advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis, the FIB‐4 score outperformed the other serum marker indices in the CHC cohort and was similar to APRI in the CHB cohort. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROC) for FIB‐4 in differentiating F3–F4 from F0–F2 was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.80–0.92) for CHB and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.81–0.85) for CHC. The suggested cut‐offs based on FIB‐4 model produced high positive predictive values [CHB: 90.0% for F0–F2, 100.0% for cirrhosis (F4); CHC: 89.7% for F0–F2; 82.9% for cirrhosis (F4)]. In this large observational cohort, FIB‐4 predicted the upper and lower end of liver fibrosis stage (cirrhosis and F0–F2, respectively) with a high degree of accuracy in both CHB and CHC patients.
A Behind‐the‐Scenes Guide to School‐Based Research
Authors: Plummer Benjamin D. , Galla Brian M. , Finn Amy S. , Patrick Sarah D. , Meketon David , Leonard Julia , Goetz Calvin , Fernandez‐Vina Elizabeth , Bartolino Sara , White Rachel E. , Duckworth Angela L.
Published: January 2014

Schools are an important context for both basic and applied scientific research. Unlike the laboratory, however, the physical and social conditions of schools are not under the exclusive control of scientists. In this article, we liken collecting data in schools to putting on a theatrical production. We begin by describing the large cast of characters whose collaborative efforts make school‐based research possible. Next, we address the critics, including the university Institutional Review Board (IRB) and school administrators, whose feedback often improves the final study design. We then turn our attention to set building, stage directions, and rehearsals—key steps in the iterative process of refining study procedures. We end with a discussion of the day of data collection itself and activities that take place after the curtain drops. Throughout, we make recommendations based on our recent experience collecting data at several high schools.
Differences in Brain Activation Between Novices and Experts in Science During a Task Involving a Common Misconception in Electricity
Authors: Masson Steve , Potvin Patrice , Riopel Martin , Foisy Lorie‐Marlène Brault
Published: January 2014

Science education studies have revealed that students often have misconceptions about how nature works, but what happens to misconceptions after a conceptual change remains poorly understood. Are misconceptions rejected and replaced by scientific conceptions, or are they still present in students' minds, coexisting with newly acquired scientific conceptions? In this study, we use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to compare brain activation between novices and experts in science when they evaluate the correctness of simple electric circuits. Results show that experts, more than novices, activate brain areas involved in inhibition when they evaluate electric circuits in which a bulb lights up, even though there is only one wire connecting it to the battery. These findings suggest that experts may still have a misconception encoded in the neural networks of their brains that must be inhibited in order to answer scientifically.
Helicobacter pylori: expect the unexpected
Authors: Suarez Giovanni , Peek Richard M.
Published: January 2014

Helicobacter pylori is one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide, and virtually all infected persons develop coexisting gastritis, a signature feature of which is the capacity to persist for decades. In support of its lifestyle, H. pylori has evolved to express an array of diverse phenotypes, including enzyme functional diversity, that help to subvert obstacles presented by the human host, which permits long‐term microbial colonization. The versatility of the newly discovered enzyme LpxJ may allow H. pylori to quickly adapt to dynamic and hostile conditions present within its cognate gastric niche.
Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), environmental enteropathy, nutrition, and early child development: making the links
Authors: Ngure Francis M. , Reid Brianna M. , Humphrey Jean H. , Mbuya Mduduzi N. , Pelto Gretel , Stoltzfus Rebecca J.
Published: January 2014

There is scarce research and programmatic evidence on the effect of poor water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions of the physical environment on early child cognitive, sensorimotor, and socioemotional development. Furthermore, many common WASH interventions are not specifically designed to protect babies in the first 3 years of life, when gut health and linear growth are established. We review evidence linking WASH, anemia, and child growth, and highlight pathways through which WASH may affect early child development, primarily through inflammation, stunting, and anemia. Environmental enteropathy, a prevalent subclinical condition of the gut, may be a key mediating pathway linking poor hygiene to developmental deficits. Current early child development research and programs lack evidence‐based interventions to provide a clean play and infant feeding environment in addition to established priorities of nutrition, stimulation, and child protection. Solutions to this problem will require appropriate behavior change and technologies that are adapted to the social and physical context and conducive to infant play and socialization. We propose the concept of baby WASH as an additional component of early childhood development programs.
Integrating maternal psychosocial well‐being into a child‐development intervention: the five‐pillars approach
Authors: Zafar Shamsa , Sikander Siham , Haq Zaeem , Hill Zelee , Lingam Raghu , Skordis‐Worrall Jolene , Hafeez Assad , Kirkwood Betty , Rahman Atif
Published: January 2014

Maternal psychosocial well‐being (MPW) is a wide‐ranging concept that encompasses the psychological (e.g., mental health, distress, anxiety, depression, coping, problem solving) and social (e.g., family and community support, empowerment, culture) aspects of motherhood. Evidence‐based MPW interventions that can be integrated into large‐scale maternal and child health programs have not been developed. Building on several years of research in Pakistan, we developed and integrated a cognitive behavioral therapy–based MPW intervention (the five‐pillars approach) into a child nutrition and development program. Following formative research with community health workers (CHWs; n = 40) and families (n = 37), CHWs were trained in (1) empathic listening, (2) family engagement, (3) guided discovery using pictures, (4) behavioral activation, and (5) problem solving. A qualitative feasibility study in one area demonstrated that CHWs were able to apply these skills effectively to their work, and the approach was found to be useful by CHWs, mothers, and their families. The success of the approach can be attributed to (1) mothers being the central focus of the intervention, (2) using local CHWs whom the mothers trust, (3) simplified training and regular supervision, and (4) an approach that facilitates, not adds, to the CHWs’ work.
Integrating early child development programs into health and nutrition services in Bangladesh: benefits and challenges
Authors: Hamadani Jena Derakhshani , Nahar Baitun , Huda Syed Nazmul , Tofail Fahmida
Published: January 2014

Bangladesh is one of the poorest countries of the world with the highest population density. The Bangladesh government recognizes the educational and financial benefits of early childhood development (ECD) and has incorporated ECD into the national plan of action. However, ECD activities are not fully established in the country and there have been few evaluations. In this paper, we present ECD programs that are integrated into health and nutrition services in Bangladesh. We present four evaluation reports of such programs and we also include seven published research projects showing evidence that such integrations are feasible. We provide short reviews on coverage, methodology, and effects of the published reports and share our experience of challenges faced and steps taken to solve them. Overall, very few programs are based on scientific evidence and fewer are even evaluated. The research projects so far conducted are promising and there is sufficient evidence on feasibility of integrating ECD activities into nutrition and health programs. Suggestions are made on measures to overcome the implementation problems and on suitable methods to establish high‐quality ECD programs in Bangladesh and in other low‐ and middle‐income countries.
Clinical test responses to different orthoptic exercise regimes in typical young adults
Authors: Horwood Anna , Toor Sonia
Published: January 2014

Purpose

The relative efficiency of different eye exercise regimes is unclear, and in particular the influences of practice, placebo and the amount of effort required are rarely considered. This study measured conventional clinical measures following different regimes in typical young adults.

Methods

A total of 156 asymptomatic young adults were directed to carry out eye exercises three times daily for 2 weeks. Exercises were directed at improving blur responses (accommodation), disparity responses (convergence), both in a naturalistic relationship, convergence in excess of accommodation, accommodation in excess of convergence, and a placebo regime. They were compared to two control groups, neither of which were given exercises, but the second of which were asked to make maximum effort during the second testing.

Results

Instruction set and participant effort were more effective than many exercises. Convergence exercises independent of accommodation were the most effective treatment, followed by accommodation exercises, and both regimes resulted in changes in both vergence and accommodation test responses. Exercises targeting convergence and accommodation working together were less effective than those where they were separated. Accommodation measures were prone to large instruction/effort effects and monocular accommodation facility was subject to large practice effects.

Conclusions

Separating convergence and accommodation exercises seemed more effective than exercising both systems concurrently and suggests that stimulation of accommodation and convergence may act in an additive fashion to aid responses. Instruction/effort effects are large and should be carefully controlled if claims for the efficacy of any exercise regime are to be made.
Management of difficult airway patients and the use of a difficult airway registry at a tertiary care pediatric hospital
Authors: Sheeran Paul W. , Walsh Brian K. , Finley Andre M. , Martin Aleta K. , Brenski Amy C.
Published: January 2014

Background

Appropriate recognition and management of the pediatric difficult airway is essential. Two patient deaths in a 2‐year period involving children with a known difficult airway led to the formation of the institution's multidisciplinary Difficult Airway Committee.

Methods

Patients with a suspected difficult airway or a known difficult airway are entered into a registry of difficult airway patients. A note describing the airway and any experiences at airway manipulation is entered as part of a difficult airway note in the patient's electronic medical record as soon as the patient is recognized as having a difficult airway. A call system has been developed to mobilize expert emergency airway assistance for these patients. Multiple additional methods are employed to ensure that all hospital personnel are aware that these patients are difficult to intubate.

Results

Since inception almost 6 years ago, 164 patients (mean age 9.2 years) have been enrolled in the difficult airway registry. Eighty‐seven patients (53%) had one of 28 identified syndromes or diagnoses. The most common reasons for airway obstruction were mandibular hypoplasia/micrognathia, decreased neck extension, and limited temporomandibular joint mobility. One hundred sixty‐one patients (98%) in the registry were predicted by history or physical to have a difficult airway. The mortality of registry patients was 9.8% (n = 16) and was most commonly due to co‐existing diseases. During the time period reviewed, there was one in‐hospital death of a known difficult airway patient, in which expert airway assistance was not obtained in a timely fashion.

Conclusion

The institution's difficult airway registry identifies patients with a suspected or known difficult airway. The presence of a difficult airway in children can usually be predicted based on history and physical examination by anesthesiologists and otolaryngologists. Providers without advanced airway skills, however, may not appreciate that an airway is difficult to intubate until multiple attempts have failed. Both redundant notification methods and a call system optimize medical care of these fragile patients.
Transient down‐regulation of the RNA silencing machinery increases efficiency of Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation of Arabidopsis
Authors: Bilichak Andriy , Yao Youli , Kovalchuk Igor
Published: January 2014

Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a plant pathogen that is widely used in plant transformation. As the process of transgenesis includes the delivery of single‐stranded T‐DNA molecule, we hypothesized that transformation rate may negatively correlate with the efficiency of the RNA‐silencing machinery. Using mutants compromised in either the transcriptional or post‐transcriptional gene‐silencing pathways, two inhibitors of stable transformation were revealed—AGO2 and NRPD1a. Furthermore, an immunoprecipitation experiment has shown that NRPD1, a subunit of Pol IV, directly interacts with Agrobacterium T‐DNA in planta. Using the Tobacco rattle virus (TRV)‐based virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) technique, we demonstrated that the transient down‐regulation of the expression of either AGO2 or NRPD1a genes in reproductive organs of Arabidopsis, leads to an increase in transformation rate. We observed a 6.0‐ and 3.5‐fold increase in transformation rate upon transient downregulation of either AGO2 or NRPD1a genes, respectively. This is the first report demonstrating the increase in the plant transformation rate via VIGS‐mediated transient down‐regulation of the components of epigenetic machinery in reproductive tissue.