bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inference of perceptual priors from path dynamics of passive self-motion
Authors: Prsa Mario , Jimenez-Rezende Danilo , Blanke Olaf
Published: December 2014

The monitoring of one's own spatial orientation depends on the ability to estimate successive self-motion cues accurately. This process has become to be known as path integration. A feature of sequential cue estimation, in general, is that the history of previously experienced stimuli, or priors, biases perception. Here, we investigate how during angular path integration, the prior imparted by the displacement path dynamics affects the translation of vestibular sensations into perceptual estimates. Subjects received successive whole-body yaw rotations and were instructed to report their position within a virtual scene after each rotation. The overall movement trajectory either followed a parabolic path or was devoid of explicit dynamics. In the latter case, estimates were biased toward the average stimulus prior and were well captured by an optimal Bayesian estimator model fit to the data. However, the use of parabolic paths reduced perceptual uncertainty, and a decrease of the average size of bias and thus the weight of the average stimulus prior were observed over time. The produced estimates were, in fact, better accounted for by a model where a prediction of rotation magnitude is inferred from the underlying path dynamics on each trial. Therefore, when passively displaced, we seem to be able to build, over time, from sequential vestibular measurements an internal model of the vehicle's movement dynamics. Our findings suggest that in ecological conditions, vestibular afference can be internally predicted, even when self-motion is not actively generated by the observer, thereby augmenting both the accuracy and precision of displacement perception.
Both ongoing alpha and visually induced gamma oscillations show reliable diversity in their across-site phase-relations
Authors: van Ede Freek , van Pelt Stan , Fries Pascal , Maris Eric
Published: December 2014

Neural oscillations have emerged as one of the major electrophysiological phenomena investigated in cognitive and systems neuroscience. These oscillations are typically studied with regard to their amplitude, phase, and/or phase coupling. Here we demonstrate the existence of another property that is intrinsic to neural oscillations but has hitherto remained largely unexplored in cognitive and systems neuroscience. This pertains to the notion that these oscillations show reliable diversity in their phase-relations between neighboring recording sites (phase-relation diversity). In contrast to most previous work, we demonstrate that this diversity is restricted neither to low-frequency oscillations nor to periods outside of sensory stimulation. On the basis of magnetoencephalographic (MEG) recordings in humans, we show that this diversity is prominent not only for ongoing alpha oscillations (8–12 Hz) but also for gamma oscillations (50–70 Hz) that are induced by sustained visual stimulation. We further show that this diversity provides a dimension within electrophysiological data that, provided a sufficiently high signal-to-noise ratio, does not covary with changes in amplitude. These observations place phase-relation diversity on the map as a prominent and general property of neural oscillations that, moreover, can be studied with noninvasive methods in healthy human volunteers. This opens important new avenues for investigating how neural oscillations contribute to the neural implementation of cognition and behavior.
Gastric Metastasis of Ectopic Breast Cancer Mimicking Axillary Metastasis of Primary Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kayılıoğlu Selami Ilgaz , Akyol Cihangir , Esen Ebru , Cansız-Ersöz Cevriye , Kocaay Akın Fırat , Genç Volkan , Kepenekçi İlknur , Demirer Seher
Published: December 2014

Ectopic breast tissue has the ability to undergo all the pathological changes of the normal breast, including breast cancer. Gastrointestinal metastasis of breast cancer is rarely observed and it is very difficult to differentiate gastric metastases from primary gastric cancer. We present a case of 52-year-old female, who suffered from abdominal pain. Physical examination showed a palpable mass in the left anterior axilla and computerized tomography revealed gastric wall thickening with linitis plastica. When gastroscopic biopsy showed no signs of malignancy, excisional biopsy was performed in the left axilla. Histological examination revealed invasive lobular carcinoma of the breast, consistent with ectopic breast cancer. Further gastroscopic submucosal biopsies and immunohistochemical studies revealed gastric metastases of invasive lobular carcinoma. Axillary ectopic breast tissue carcinomas can mimic axillary lymphadenopathies. Additionally, gastric metastasis of breast cancer is an uncommon but possible condition. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of ectopic breast cancer with gastric metastasis.
Corrosion Inhibition Effect of 4-Hydroxy-N′-[(E)-(1H-indole-2-ylmethylidene)] Benzohydrazide on Mild Steel in Hydrochloric Acid Solution
Authors: Kumari Preethi , Shetty Prakash , Rao Suma A.
Published: December 2014

The inhibition performance and adsorption behaviour of 4-hydroxy-N′-[(E)-(1H-indole-2-ylmethylidene)] benzohydrazide (HIBH) on mild steel in 1 M HCl solution were tested by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The inhibition efficiency of HIBH increases with increase in inhibitor concentration in the temperature range 30–60°C. Polarisation curves indicate that HIBH is a mixed inhibitor, affecting both cathodic and anodic corrosion currents. The adsorption process of HIBH at the mild steel/hydrochloric acid solution interface obeyed Langmuir adsorption isotherm model and inhibition takes place by mixed adsorption, predominantly chemisorption. The activation and thermodynamic parameters for the corrosion inhibition process were calculated to elaborate the mechanism of corrosion inhibition.
The 2007 Los Angeles Mommy and Baby Study: A Multilevel, Population-Based Study of Maternal and Infant Health in Los Angeles County
Authors: Chao Shin M. , Wakeel Fathima , Herman Dena , Higgins Chandra , Shi Lu , Chow Jessica , Sun Stacy , Lu Michael C.
Published: December 2014

Objectives. In order to comprehensively examine the risks and resources associated with racial-ethnic disparities in adverse obstetric outcomes, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the University of California, Los Angeles, joined efforts to design and implement the 2007 Los Angeles Mommy and Baby (LAMB) study. This paper aims to present the conceptual frameworks underlying the study’s development, highlight the successful collaboration between a research institution and local health department, describe the distinguishing characteristics of its methodology, and discuss the study’s implications for research, programs, and policies.Methods. The LAMB study utilized a multilevel, multistage cluster design with a mixed-mode methodology for data collection. Two samples were ultimately produced: the multilevel sample (n = 4,518) and the augmented final sample (n = 6,264).Results. The LAMB study allowed us to collect multilevel data on the risks and resources associated with racial-ethnic disparities in adverse obstetric outcomes. Both samples were more likely to be Hispanic, aged 20–34 years, completed at least 12 years of schooling, and spoke English.Conclusions. The LAMB study represents the successful collaboration between an academic institution and local health department and is a theoretically based research database and surveillance system that informs effective programmatic and policy interventions to improve outcomes among LAC’s varied demographic groups.
A Novel Performance Analysis of the Microstrip Antenna Printed on a Cylindrical Body
Authors: Mahros Amr M. , Tharwat Marwa M. , Elrashidi Ali
Published: December 2014

Performance of a circular patch microstrip antenna is highly affected by the effective dielectric constant of a used substrate material. When the circular patch is conformed on a cylindrical body, the effective dielectric constant is changing with curvature due to the changing in the fringing field. Consequently, some of antenna parameters such as resonance frequency, input impedance, voltage standing wave ratio, return loss, quality factor, and antenna bandwidth are functions of curvature. In this work, we study the effect of curvature on the performance of circular patch microstrip antenna. A mathematical model for the antenna parameters as functions of curvature is also introduced. The model is applied in case of using two substrates of different refractive index values. By extension, the antenna performance was studied through simulation by using method of moments (MoM) which is reliable in solving Maxwell’s integral equations in the frequency domain. The results from simulation compare very favorably with the described analytical results.
Use of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid as a Scavenger for Chromium from “Wet Blue” Leather Waste: Thermodynamic and Kinetics Parameters
Authors: Resende José E. , Gonçalves Mateus A. , Oliveira Luiz C. A. , da Cunha Elaine F. F. , Ramalho Teodorico C.
Published: December 2014

One serious consequence of the current consumer society is the transformation of the environment into a waste receptacle arising from human activities. Because of the potential toxic effects of chromium solid waste containing this metal there are grounds for serious concern for the tanning and leather processing industry. The application of tannery waste as organic fertilizer has led to extensive contamination by chromium in agricultural areas and may cause the accumulation of this metal in soils and plants. This work evaluated the extraction of Cr+3and Cr+6contained in solid waste from the leather industry through density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The Gibbs free energy calculations reveal that the chelator ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) forms more stable complexes with metal ions of chromium compared with the structures of the complexes [Cr(NTA)(H2O)2] and [Cr-collagen], the latter used to simulate the protein bound chrome leather.
Intrascrotal Dedifferentiated Leiomyosarcoma Originating from Dartos Muscle
Authors: Teshima Taro , Takahashi Sayuri , Nagamoto Shoichi , Miyazaki Hideyo , Nakagawa Tohru , Fujimura Tetsuya , Fukuhara Hiroshi , Kume Haruki , Homma Yukio
Published: December 2014

A 46-year-old man, who had visited our hospital complaining of a small intrascrotal nodule ten years ago, returned to us because of the rapid growth of the nodule. Computed tomography revealed a heterogeneously enhanced intrascrotal tumor of approximately4×3 cm. The tumor and the right testis were excised with the adhered right scrotal skin. The pathological diagnosis was pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma with dedifferentiation originating from the dartos muscle. Urological dedifferentiated leiomyosarcomas are rarely reported and the clinical features are mostly unknown. This is the first report to describe the dedifferentiated leiomyosarcoma of the dartos muscle.
The Structure of EAP-Groups and Self-Autopermutable Subgroups
Authors: Housieni Shima , Moghaddam Mohammad Reza Rajabzadeh
Published: December 2014

A subgroupHof a given groupGis said to beautopermutable, ifHHα=HαHfor allα∈AutG. We also callHaself-autopermutable subgroupofG, whenHHα=HαHimplies thatHα=H. Moreover,Gis said to beEAP-group, if every subgroup ofGisautopermutable. One notes that ifαruns over the inner automorphisms of the group, one obtains the notions of conjugate-permutability, self-conjugate-permutability, andECP-groups, which were studied by Foguel in 1997, Li and Meng in 2007, and Xu and Zhang in 2005, respectively. In the present paper, we determine the structure of a finite EAP-group when its centre is of index 4 inG. We also show that self-autopermutability and characteristic properties are equivalent for nilpotent groups.
Lifecycle-Based Swarm Optimization Method for Numerical Optimization
Authors: Shen Hai , Zhu Yunlong , Liang Xiaodan
Published: December 2014

Bioinspired optimization algorithms have been widely used to solve various scientific and engineering problems. Inspired by biological lifecycle, this paper presents a novel optimization algorithm called lifecycle-based swarm optimization (LSO). Biological lifecycle includes four stages: birth, growth, reproduction, and death. With this process, even though individual organism died, the species will not perish. Furthermore, species will have stronger ability of adaptation to the environment and achieve perfect evolution. LSO simulates Biological lifecycle process through six optimization operators: chemotactic, assimilation, transposition, crossover, selection, and mutation. In addition, the spatial distribution of initialization population meets clumped distribution. Experiments were conducted on unconstrained benchmark optimization problems and mechanical design optimization problems. Unconstrained benchmark problems include both unimodal and multimodal cases the demonstration of the optimal performance and stability, and the mechanical design problem was tested for algorithm practicability. The results demonstrate remarkable performance of the LSO algorithm on all chosen benchmark functions when compared to several successful optimization techniques.
Selenium Supplementation for Autoimmune Thyroiditis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fan Yaofu , Xu Shuhang , Zhang Huifeng , Cao Wen , Wang Kun , Chen Guofang , Di Hongjie , Cao Meng , Liu Chao
Published: December 2014

Many studies have reported that selenium (Se) has a close relationship with autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). The therapeutic effect of Se supplementation in AIT treatment remains unclear. The objective of the present study was to determine the efficacy of Se supplementation for the treatment of AIT. A structured literature search was undertaken to identify all randomized controlled trials conducted in patients with AIT receiving Se supplementation or placebo. Nine studies enrolling a total of 787 patients were included. The results showed that Se supplementation with duration 6 months significantly dropped the TPOAb titers but did not decrease the TgAb titers. Patients assigned to Se supplementation for 12-month duration showed significantly lower TPOAb titers and TgAb titers. Patients after Se supplementation had a higher chance to improve the mood or well-being compared with controls. Se supplementation is associated with a significant decrease in TPOAb titers at 6 and 12 months; meanwhile, the TgAb titers can be dropped at 12 months. After Se supplementation treatment, patients had a higher chance to improve the mood without significant adverse events.
A Phase Ib Dose-Escalation Study of the Oral Pan-PI3K Inhibitor Buparlisib (BKM120) in Combination with the Oral MEK1/2 Inhibitor Trametinib (GSK1120212) in Patients with Selected Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Bedard Philippe L. , Tabernero Josep , Janku Filip , Wainberg Zev A. , Paz-Ares Luis , Vansteenkiste Johan , Van Cutsem Eric , Pérez-García José , Stathis Anastasios , Britten Carolyn D. , Le Ngocdiep , Carter Kirsten , Demanse David , Csonka Denes , Peters Malte , Zubel Angela , Nauwelaerts Heidi , Sessa Cristiana
Published: December 2014

Purpose: MAPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways play important roles in many tumors. In this study, safety, antitumor activity, and pharmacokinetics of buparlisib (pan class PI3K inhibitor) and trametinib (MEK inhibitor) were evaluated.

Experimental Design: This open-label, dose-finding, phase Ib study comprised dose escalation, followed by expansion part in patients with RAS- or BRAF-mutant non–small cell lung, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer.

Results: Of note, 113 patients were enrolled, 66 and 47 in dose-escalation and -expansion parts, respectively. MTD was established as buparlisib 70 mg + trametinib 1.5 mg daily [5/15, 33% patients with dose-limiting toxicities (DLT)] and recommended phase II dose (RP2D) buparlisib 60 mg + trametinib 1.5 mg daily (1/10, 10% patients with DLTs). DLTs included stomatitis (8/103, 8%), diarrhea, dysphagia, and creatine kinase (CK) increase (2/103, 2% each). Treatment-related grade 3/4 adverse events (AEs) occurred in 73 patients (65%); mainly CK increase, stomatitis, AST/ALT (aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase) increase, and rash. For all (21) patients with ovarian cancer, overall response rate was 29% [1 complete response, 5 partial responses (PR)], disease control rate 76%, and median progression-free survival was 7 months. Minimal activity was observed in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (1/17 PR) and pancreatic cancer (best overall response was SD). Relative to historical data, buparlisib exposure increased and trametinib exposure slightly increased with the combination.

Conclusions: At RP2D, buparlisib 60 mg + trametinib 1.5 mg daily shows promising antitumor activity for patients with KRAS-mutant ovarian cancer. Long-term tolerability of the combination at RP2D is challenging, due to frequent dose interruptions and reductions for toxicity. Clin Cancer Res; 21(4); 730–8. ©2014 AACR.
Synergistic Activity of PARP Inhibition by Talazoparib (BMN 673) with Temozolomide in Pediatric Cancer Models in the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program
Authors: Smith Malcolm A. , Reynolds C. Patrick , Kang Min H. , Kolb E. Anders , Gorlick Richard , Carol Hernan , Lock Richard B. , Keir Stephen T. , Maris John M. , Billups Catherine A. , Lyalin Dmitry , Kurmasheva Raushan T. , Houghton Peter J.
Published: December 2014

Purpose: Inhibitors of PARP, an enzyme involved in base excision repair, have demonstrated single-agent activity against tumors deficient in homologous repair processes. Ewing sarcoma cells are also sensitive to PARP inhibitors, although the mechanism is not understood. Here, we evaluated the stereo-selective PARP inhibitor, talazoparib (BMN 673), combined with temozolomide or topotecan.

Experimental Design: Talazoparib was tested in vitro in combination with temozolomide (0.3–1,000 μmol/L) or topotecan (0.03–100 nmol/L) and in vivo at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg administered twice daily for 5 days combined with temozolomide (30 mg/kg/daily x 5; combination A) or 0.25 mg/kg administered twice daily for 5 days combined with temozolomide (12 mg/kg/daily x 5; combination B). Pharmacodynamic studies were undertaken after 1 or 5 days of treatment.

Results: In vitro talazoparib potentiated the toxicity of temozolomide up to 85-fold, with marked potentiation in Ewing sarcoma and leukemia lines (30–50-fold). There was less potentiation for topotecan. In vivo, talazoparib potentiated the toxicity of temozolomide, and combination A and combination B represent the MTDs when combined with low-dose or high-dose talazoparib, respectively. Both combinations demonstrated significant synergism against 5 of 10 Ewing sarcoma xenografts. The combination demonstrated modest activity against most other xenograft models. Pharmacodynamic studies showed a treatment-induced complete loss of PARP only in tumor models sensitive to either talazoparib alone or talazoparib plus temozolomide.

Conclusions: The high level of activity observed for talazoparib plus temozolomide in Ewing sarcoma xenografts makes this an interesting combination to consider for pediatric evaluation. Clin Cancer Res; 21(4); 819–32. ©2014 AACR.
Genomic Profiling of Human Penile Carcinoma Predicts Worse Prognosis and Survival
Authors: Busso-Lopes Ariane F. , Marchi Fábio A. , Kuasne Hellen , Scapulatempo-Neto Cristovam , Trindade-Filho José Carlos S. , de Jesus Carlos Márcio N. , Lopes Ademar , Guimarães Gustavo C. , Rogatto Silvia R.
Published: December 2014

The molecular mechanisms underlying penile carcinoma are still poorly understood, and the detection of genetic markers would be of great benefit for these patients. In this study, we assessed the genomic profile aiming at identifying potential prognostic biomarkers in penile carcinoma. Globally, 46 penile carcinoma samples were considered to evaluate DNA copy-number alterations via array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) combined with human papillomavirus (HPV) genotyping. Specific genes were investigated by using qPCR, FISH, and RT-qPCR. Genomic alterations mapped at 3p and 8p were related to worse prognostic features, including advanced T and clinical stage, recurrence and death from the disease. Losses of 3p21.1–p14.3 and gains of 3q25.31–q29 were associated with reduced cancer-specific and disease-free survival. Genomic alterations detected for chromosome 3 (LAMP3, PPARG, TNFSF10 genes) and 8 (DLC1) were evaluated by qPCR. DLC1 and PPARG losses were associated with poor prognosis characteristics. Losses of DLC1 were an independent risk factor for recurrence on multivariate analysis. The gene-expression analysis showed downexpression of DLC1 and PPARG and overexpression of LAMP3 and TNFSF10 genes. Chromosome Y losses and MYC gene (8q24) gains were confirmed by FISH. HPV infection was detected in 34.8% of the samples, and 19 differential genomic regions were obtained related to viral status. At first time, we described recurrent copy-number alterations and its potential prognostic value in penile carcinomas. We also showed a specific genomic profile according to HPV infection, supporting the hypothesis that penile tumors present distinct etiologies according to virus status. Cancer Prev Res; 8(2); 149–56. ©2014 AACR.
Pim-1 Kinase Cooperates with Serum Signals Supporting Mesenchymal Stem Cell Propagation
Authors: Zhao Yunshan , Hu Jingping , Buckingham Bryan , Pittenger Mark F. , Wu Zhongjun J. , Griffith Bartley P.
Published: December 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are currently undergoing testing in several clinical settings. The propagation of MSCs from multiple species in culture is an important step in furthering our understanding of these progenitor cells. Pim-1, a proto-oncogenic serine/threonine kinase, regulates cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Although it has been shown that Pim-1 participates in signal transduction mediating mitogenic action in MSCs, its roles in the modulation of MSC propagation remain to be defined. Understanding of ovine MSCs transduced with Pim-1 may provide improved ovine models for cellular therapy development. Using genetically modified ovine MSCs that constitutively overexpressed Pim-1 (MSC expressing PIM-1 and ZsGreen protein), we evaluated the impact of elevated Pim-1 activity on the proliferation, survival, and differentiation of MSCs in culture. Our results showed that Pim-1 enhanced the intrinsic molecular signals of growth and survival implicated in the mediation of serum signaling under normal culture conditions (10% serum). We found that Pim-1 promoted MSC proliferation irrespectively of the serum concentration, but with a decreased proliferation rate compared to increased serum concentrations, relative to the control vector-transduced MSC expressing ZsGreen protein. Further, Pim-1 prevented MSC apoptosis induced by hypoxia or serum deprivation as evidenced by enhanced mitochondria integrity and reduced annexin V binding. Interestingly, the phenotype and multilineage differentiation potential of the cells were not influenced by Pim-1. Taken together, these observations demonstrate that Pim-1 kinase cooperates with exogenous serum signals supporting MSC propagation in the ovine model.
A Multicenter Study of the Importance of Systemic Chemotherapy for Patients with Small-Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Uterine Cervix
Authors: Lee Shin-Wha , Lim Kyung-Taek , Bae Duk Soo , Park Sang Yoon , Kim Young Tae , Kim Kyu-Rae , Nam Joo-Hyun
Published: December 2014

Aims: We investigated the prognosis of patients with small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the uterine cervix (SCNEC) in relation to treatment modalities. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and pathological reports of 102 patients who were histologically diagnosed with SCNEC at 5 different institutes. Time to progression (TTP) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed for each treatment modality. Results: Of the patients with early-stage [International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology (FIGO) stage IB2 or below] SCNEC, 57.8 and 79.3% underwent radical hysterectomy followed by adjuvant therapy. In advanced-stage SCNEC, concurrent chemoradiation therapy was given to 51.4% of the patients. The overall recurrence rate was 51.6%. In early- and advanced-stage SCNEC, the TTP was not different (22.3 vs. 13.3 months, p = 0.104), but the OS was different (40.7 vs. 21.4 months, p = 0.029). Parametrial involvement and lymph vascular space invasion were found to be associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Interestingly, survival was the most unfavorable in patients with early-stage SCNEC who had never received chemotherapy. FIGO stage and use of chemotherapy were identified as independent prognostic factors in SCNEC patients. Conclusions: SCNEC requires systemic chemotherapy as part of the initial treatment, along with surgery or radiation, even in patients with early-stage disease.
The Parkinson's Disease-Related Protein DJ-1 Protects Dopaminergic Neurons in vivo and Cultured Cells from Alpha-Synuclein and 6-Hydroxydopamine Toxicity
Authors: Batelli Sara , Invernizzi Roberto William , Negro Alessandro , Calcagno Eleonora , Rodilossi Serena , Forloni Gianluigi , Albani Diego
Published: December 2014

Background: Dopaminergic degeneration is a major finding in brains of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), together with Lewy bodies, intraneuronal inclusions mainly composed of the fibrillogenic protein α-synuclein (α-syn). The familial-PD-related protein DJ-1 was reported to reduce dopaminergic degeneration triggered by α-syn or by the dopaminergic-selective neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Objective: The aim was to further investigate the role of DJ-1 in dopaminergic degeneration and to see whether a cell-permeable recombinant form of DJ-1 (TAT-DJ-1) could restore dopamine depletion in vivo, thus representing an innovative therapeutic approach. Methods: We developed in vitro (PC12/TetOn cells and mouse primary mesencephalic neurons) and in vivo models [including DJ-1 knockout (-/-) mice] to investigate DJ-1 in dopaminergic degeneration. Results: We found that in PC12/TetOn cells overexpressing α-syn with the familial-PD linked mutation A30P, DJ-1 silencing increased α-syn (A30P) toxicity. Primary mesencephalic neurons from DJ-1 (-/-) mice were more vulnerable to a cell-permeable form of α-syn (TAT-α-syn) and to 6-OHDA. Intrastriatally administered TAT-DJ-1 reduced 6-OHDA toxicity in vivo in C57BL/6 mice. Finally, when we injected TAT-α-syn (A30P) in the striatum of DJ-1 (-/-) animals, dopamine was depleted more than in the control strain. Conclusion: DJ-1 appears to have a protective role against dopaminergic degeneration triggered by α-syn or 6-OHDA, reinforcing the possible therapeutic importance of this protein in PD.
Patterns of Childhood Abuse and Neglect as Predictors of Treatment Outcome in Inpatient Psychotherapy: A Typological Approach
Authors: Schilling Christoph , Weidner Kerstin , Schellong Julia , Joraschky Peter , Pöhlmann Karin
Published: December 2014

Background: Childhood maltreatment is associated with the development and maintenance of mental disorders. The purpose of this naturalistic study was (a) to identify different patterns of childhood maltreatment, (b) to examine how these patterns are linked to the severity of mental disorders and (c) whether they are predictive of treatment outcome. Methods: 742 adult patients of a university hospital for psychotherapy and psychosomatics were assessed at intake and discharge by standardized questionnaires assessing depression (Beck Depression Inventory, BDI) and general mental distress (Symptom Check List-90-R, SCL-90-R). Traumatic childhood experience (using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, CTQ) and ICD-10 diagnoses were assessed at intake. Results: The patients could be allocated to three different patterns of early childhood trauma experience: mild traumatization, multiple traumatization without sexual abuse and multiple traumatization with sexual abuse. The three patterns showed highly significant differences in BDI, General Severity Index (GSI) and in the number of comorbidity at intake. For both BDI and GSI a general decrease in depression and general mental distress from intake to discharge could be shown. The three patterns differed in BDI and GSI at intake and discharge, indicating lowest values for mild traumatization and highest values for multiple traumatization with sexual abuse. Patients with multiple traumatization with sexual abuse showed the least favourable outcome. Conclusion: The results provide evidence that the severity of childhood traumatization is linked to the severity of mental disorders and also to the treatment outcome in inpatient psychotherapy. In the study, three different patterns of childhood traumatization (mild traumatization, multiple traumatization without sexual abuse, multiple traumatization with sexual abuse) showed differences in the severity of mental disorder and in the course of treatment within the same therapy setting.
Dimensions of the Operationalized Psychodynamic Diagnosis System that Predict Long-Term Outcome after Inpatient Psychotherapy
Authors: Schneider Gudrun , Tiemann Martina , Stumpf Astrid , Heuft Gereon
Published: December 2014

Background/Aims: To determine whether the Operationalized Psychodynamic Diagnosis (OPD) system can be useful in predicting patient outcome in the long term. Methods: OPD was assessed by the therapists prior to and after inpatient treatment. Patients completed psychometric scales at the start and completion of psychosomatic-psychotherapeutic inpatient treatment and at the follow-up. Outcome was defined by the general factor emerging from a principal component analysis of the Brief Symptom Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Inventory of Interpersonal Problems at katamnesis, representing individual differences in general distress. Results: Several dimensions of the OPD system proved to be predictors of general distress at the follow-up in 253 former inpatients. Negative predictors of long-term outcome were the high internal impediments to change, namely high secondary gains from illness and also less integrated structural abilities. Positive OPD predictors of long-term outcome were the treatment success achieved at the end of inpatient psychotherapy in changing the illness concept towards a psychological understanding of symptoms, lower levels of complaints and a higher functional level. Also the achieved level of awareness for the individual maladaptive behavioral pattern is predictive of a favorable long-term outcome. Conclusions: The results provide evidence for the clinical relevance and the predictive value of OPD.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells from Female Donors Enhance Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation in vitro
Authors: Pasanen Ilkka , Pietilä Mika , Lehtonen Siri , Lehtilahti Elisa , Hakkarainen Tanja , Blanco Sequeiros Roberto , Lehenkari Petri , Kuvaja Paula
Published: December 2014

The interplay between tumor stroma and breast cancer cells (BCCs) is thought to play a significant role in breast cancer. The current knowledge of human mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) and BCC interaction is contradictory, and the donor sex issue is not addressed at all. We hypothesized that donor sex could have an effect on proliferation of MSCs or BCCs in co-culture in vitro. Three estrogen receptor-negative BCC lines, 19 primary human MSCs and breast tissue-derived fibroblasts from 4 donors were used. MSCs from female donors enhanced BCC proliferation (p = 0.005). The change in BCC proliferation was only partly due to soluble factors excreted by MSCs. The highly aggressive BCC line MDA-MB- 231 induced the proliferation of MSCs (p < 0.001) and fibroblasts (p = 0.037) in co-culture experiments. The magnitude in proliferation change was cell line dependent and partly sex dependent. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Hereditary Cancer-Associated Mutations in Women Diagnosed with Two Primary Cancers: An Opportunity to Identify Hereditary Cancer Syndromes after the First Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Saam Jennifer , Moyes Kelsey , Landon Michelle , Williams Kayon , Kaldate Rajesh R. , Arnell Christopher , Wenstrup Richard
Published: December 2014

Objectives: Patients with hereditary cancer syndromes are at high risk for a second primary cancer. Early identification of these patients after an initial cancer diagnosis is the key to implementing cancer risk-reducing strategies. Methods: A commercial laboratory database was searched for women with a history of both breast and ovarian or colorectal and endometrial cancer who underwent genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) or Lynch syndrome (LS). Results: Among women with both breast and ovarian cancer, 22.4% (2,237/9,982) had a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Among women with both colorectal and ovarian cancer, 28.1% (264/941) had a mutation associated with LS. In 66.6% of BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers and in 58.3% of LS mutation carriers, >5 years passed between the cancer diagnoses. Of patients with HBOC and LS, 56 and 65.2%, respectively, met the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for hereditary cancer testing after their initial diagnosis based on their personal cancer history alone. Conclusions: A substantial number of women tested for LS or HBOC after being diagnosed with two successive primary cancers were diagnosed with a hereditary cancer syndrome. In many cases, the time interval between the diagnoses was long enough to allow for the implementation of surveillance and/or prophylactic measures. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
The Progression of Alzheimer's Disease Can Be Assessed with a Short Version of the CERAD Neuropsychological Battery: The Kuopio ALSOVA Study
Authors: Hallikainen Ilona , Martikainen Janne , Lin Pei-Jung , Cohen Joshua T. , Lahoz Raquel , Välimäki Tarja , Hongisto Kristiina , Väätäinen Saku , Vanhanen Matti , Neumann Peter J. , Hänninen Tuomo , Koivisto Anne Maria
Published: December 2014

Background/Aims: Measuring and predicting Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression is important in order to adjust treatment and allocate care resources. We aimed to identify a combination of subtests from the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease Neuropsychological Battery (CERAD-NB) that best correlated with AD progression in follow-up as well as to predict AD progression. Method: A total of 236 participants with very mild [Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) = 0.5] or mild AD (CDR = 1.0) at baseline were followed up for 3 years. The CERAD-NB and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) were used to assess cognition, and the CDR scale sum of boxes (CDR-sb) was employed to evaluate AD progression. Generalized estimating equations were used to develop models to predict and follow up disease progression. Results: Performance declined on all CERAD-NB subtests. The ability of the separate subtests to distinguish between groups (baseline CDR = 0.5 or 1.0) diminished during follow-up. The best combination of subtests that explained 62% of CDR-sb variance in follow-up included verbal fluency, constructional praxis, the clock drawing test, and the MMSE. Baseline values of the same combination predicted 37% of the CDR-sb change. Conclusion: A short version of the CERAD-NB subtests provides a promising and time-efficient alternative for measuring cognitive deterioration during AD follow-up. Although the initial signs of AD include memory difficulties, it may be useful to assess non-memory tasks in follow-up.
Multifaceted Intervention Including Motivational Interviewing to Support Medication Adherence after Stroke/Transient Ischemic Attack: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Hedegaard Ulla , Kjeldsen Lene Juel , Pottegård Anton , Bak Søren , Hallas Jesper
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose: Adherence to medication is often suboptimal after stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA), which increases the risk of recurrent stroke and death. Complex interventions and motivational interviewing (MI) have been proven effective in other areas of medicine. The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a multifaceted intervention including MI in improving medication adherence for secondary stroke prevention. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, TIA and stroke patients receiving a pharmacist intervention in a hospital setting were compared with patients receiving usual care. The intervention consisted of a focused medication review, an MI-approached consultation and 3 follow-up telephone calls and lasted for 6 months. The primary outcome was a composite medication possession ratio (MPR) for antiplatelets, anticoagulants and statins in the year after hospitalization, assessed by analyzing pharmacy records and reported as both a continuous rate and a binary outcome. Secondary outcomes included composite MPRs at 3, 6 and 9 months as well as adherence and persistence to specific thrombopreventive medications at 12 months. Clinical outcomes included a combined end point of cardiovascular death, stroke or acute myocardial infarction. Patient satisfaction with the service was assessed for the intervention patients. Results: The analyses included 102 intervention patients and 101 controls. At 12 months, the median MPRs (IQR) were 0.95 (0.77-1) in the intervention group and 0.91 (0.83-0.99) in the control group, and 28 and 21% of the patients, respectively, were nonadherent (MPR <0.80; risk difference: 7%; 95% CI: -5 to 19%). In both groups, the median MPR decreased over time. From 3 to 12 months, the MPR fell by 5% (p < 0.05) in the intervention group and by 9% (p < 0.05) in the control group, but between the groups, comparisons showed no statistically significant difference. No significant differences were found for adherence and persistence to specific thrombopreventive agents or for the clinical outcome. The intervention patients were satisfied with the service; about half of them reported increased knowledge about medication, and one third reported increased confidence with medication use. Pharmacists identified drug-related problems in one third of the patients. Conclusions: A multifaceted pharmacist intervention including MI did not improve adherence or persistence to secondary stroke prevention therapy and had no impact on clinical outcomes. However, due to the high adherence rates, only little room for improvement existed. Future studies should focus on patients at high risk of nonadherence and include outcomes more sensitive to the impact of behavioral interventions.
Hereditary Neuropathy with Liability to Pressure Palsy Presenting as an Acute Brachial Plexopathy: A Lover's Palsy
Authors: Wedderburn Sarah , Pateria Puraskar , Panegyres Peter K.
Published: December 2014

It is generally regarded that patients with hereditary neuropathy to pressure palsies, due to a deletion in the PMP22 gene, show recurrent pressure palsy and generalised peripheral neuropathy (pes cavus and hammer toes sometimes develop). Brachial plexopathy is rarely identified as a first presentation of hereditary neuropathy to pressure palsies. We describe a young man who developed a painless flail upper limb with a clinical diagnosis of a brachial plexopathy after his partner slept on his arm - a PMP22 deletion was found. His father, who had a symmetrical polyneuropathy without recurrent mononeuropathies, shared the PMP22 deletion.
Characterisation and quantification of F8 transcripts of ten putative splice site mutations
Authors: Lu Yeling , Ruan Yufeng , Ding Qiulan , Wang Xuefeng , Xi Xiaodong , Wang Hongli , Liang Qian , Xiang Mingjie
Published: December 2014

Mutations affecting splice sites comprise approximately 7.5 % of the known F8 gene mutations but only a few were verified at mRNA level. In the present study, 10 putative splice site mutations were characterised by mRNA analysis using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). Quantitative real-time RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) and co-amplification fluorescent PCR were used in combination to quantify the amount of each of multiple F8 transcripts. All of the mutations resulted in aberrant splicing. One of them (c.6187+1del1) generated one form of F8 transcript with exon skipping, and the remaining nine mutations (c.602-6T>C, c.1752+5_1752+6insGTTAG, c.1903+5G>A, c.5219+3A>G, c.5586+3A>T, c.969A>T, c.265+4A>G, c.601+1_601+5del5 and c.1444-8_1444del9) produced multiple F8 transcripts with exon skipping, activation of cryptic splice site and/or normal splicing. Residual wild-type F8 transcripts were produced by the first six of the nine mutations with amounts of 3.9 %>, 14.2 %>, 5.2 %>, 19.2 %>, 1.8 °% and 2.5 %> of normal levels, respectively, which were basically consistent with coagulation phenotypes in the related patients. In comparison with the mRNA findings, software Alamut v2.3 had values in the prediction of pathogenic effects on native splice sites but was not reliable in the prediction of activation of cryptic splice sites. Our quantification of F8 transcripts may provide an alternative way to evaluate the low expression levels of residue wild-type F8 transcripts and help to explain the severity of haemophilia A caused by splicing site mutations.
Who’s Afraid of Confucius?
Authors: Ampiah Kweku
Published: December 2014

The paper examines the popularly known Confucian values and ritual practices and questions the notion that these norms and practices are unique to East Asia. By evoking the essential social values and norms of the Akan culture (in West Africa) the analysis posits that the so-called East Asian values as codified by Confucius are actually universal principles. The essay examines how the principles of filial piety and ancestor worship play out in the social practices of the Asante people (of the Akan ethnic group) and the Confucian communities, and suggests that a proper comparative examination of these practices across cultures would show that some cultural groups outside the East Asian zone might turn out to be more ‘Confucian’ than some of the East Asian countries.
Constitution-Building in Africa
Authors: Fombad Charles Manga
Published: December 2014

Constitution-building is a delicate and intricate process which requires ample reflection and careful choices. African constitution-builders and politicians have since the beginning of the 1990s embarked on a process of constitutional reforms. A careful examination of the developments of the last two decades shows that the process has almost provoked never-ending contagion of making, unmaking and remaking of constitutions. This paper attempts to provide an over-view of the changes that have been taking place. Some of the issues relating to the durability of national constitutions and theoretical foundations for constitutional change are discussed. The paper also considers some of the possible implications of the endless processes of making, unmaking and remaking constitutions. The critical question it tries to grapple with is how this unending process of constitution-building in Africa can be controlled in a manner that will ensure peace, political stability and provide a legitimate foundation for entrenching a firm culture of constitutionalism. In advocating for an entrenched permanent constitutional review commission to check against frequent and arbitrary constitutional changes, the paper argues that this is the best way for constitutional legitimacy to be sustained throughout the life of a constitution.
An Observational and Modeling Study of Impacts of Bark Beetle–Caused Tree Mortality on Surface Energy and Hydrological Cycles
Authors: Chen Fei , Zhang Guo , Barlage Michael , Zhang Ying , Hicke Jeffrey A. , Meddens Arjan , Zhou Guangsheng , Massman William J. , Frank John
Published: December 2014

Bark beetle outbreaks have killed billions of trees and affected millions of hectares of forest during recent decades. The objective of this study was to quantify responses of surface energy and hydrologic fluxes 2–3 yr following a spruce beetle outbreak using measurements and modeling. The authors used observations at the Rocky Mountains Glacier Lakes Ecosystem Experiments Site (GLEES), where beetles killed 85% of the basal area of spruce from 2005–07 (prebeetle) to 2009/10 (postbeetle). Observations showed increased albedo following tree mortality, more reflected solar radiation, and less net radiation, but these postoutbreak radiation changes are smaller than or comparable to their annual preoutbreak variability. The dominant signals from observations were a large reduction (27%) in summer daytime evaporation and a large increase (25%) in sensible heat fluxes. Numerous Noah LSM with multiparameterization options (Noah-MP) simulations incorporating beetle-caused tree mortality effects were conducted to assess their impact on the surface hydrological cycle components that were not directly observed. Model results revealed substantial seasonal variations: more spring snowmelt and runoff, less spring–summer transpiration, and drier soil in summer and fall. This modeled trend is similar to observed runoff changes in harvested forests where reduced forest density resulted in more spring snowmelt and annual water yields. Model results showed that snow albedo changes due to increased litter cover beneath killed trees altered the seasonal pattern of simulated snowmelt and snow water equivalent, but these changes are small compared to the effect of leaf loss. This study highlights the need to include the transient effects of forest disturbances in modeling land–atmosphere interactions and their potential impacts on regional weather and climate.
Langmuir Turbulence under Hurricane Gustav (2008)
Authors: Rabe Tyler J. , Kukulka Tobias , Ginis Isaac , Hara Tetsu , Reichl Brandon G. , D’Asaro Eric A. , Harcourt Ramsey R. , Sullivan Peter P.
Published: December 2014

Extreme winds and complex wave fields drive upper-ocean turbulence in tropical cyclone conditions. Motivated by Lagrangian float observations of bulk vertical velocity variance (VVV) under Hurricane Gustav (2008), upper-ocean turbulence is investigated based on large-eddy simulation (LES) of the wave-averaged Navier–Stokes equations. To realistically capture wind- and wave-driven Langmuir turbulence (LT), the LES model imposes the Stokes drift vector from spectral wave simulations; both the LES and wave model are forced by the NOAA Hurricane Research Division (HRD) surface wind analysis product. Results strongly suggest that without LT effects simulated VVV underestimates the observed VVV. LT increases the VVV, indicating that it plays a significant role in upper-ocean turbulence dynamics. Consistent with observations, the LES predicts a suppression of VVV near the hurricane eye due to wind-wave misalignment. However, this decrease is weaker and of shorter duration than that observed, potentially due to large-scale horizontal advection not present in the LES. Both observations and simulations are consistent with a highly variable upper ocean turbulence field beneath tropical cyclone cores. Bulk VVV, a TKE budget analysis, and anisotropy coefficient (ratio of horizontal to vertical velocity variances) profiles all indicate that LT is suppressed to levels closer to that of shear turbulence (ST) due to misaligned wind and wave fields. VVV approximately scales with the directional surface layer Langmuir number. Such a scaling provides guidance for the development of an upper-ocean boundary layer parameterization that explicitly depends on sea state.
The Measure of a Nation
Authors: Reeves Richard
Published: December 2014

We need more—and better—data on social mobility in the United States. Normative questions must be answered first. We have to know why we care about a particular pattern of mobility to know how to set about measuring it. The distinction between relative and absolute mobility is a case in point. Do we care most about whether people are better off than their parents, or about how much movement there is up and down the income ladder? Technical difficulties abound for the measurement of mobility. It is important not to lose sight of the motivation for the exercise: measuring how far the inequality patterns of one generation are impressed upon the next, understanding these replication processes empirically, and weakening them. America has a historic commitment to the ideal of equality of opportunity. Data on mobility, then, comprise the measure of the nation.