bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The benefits of early active motion on thumb range of motion following extensor pollicis longus tendon repair in zones TIII–TV: A prospective comparison pilot study
Authors: Miller Lauren , Crosbie Jack
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Extensor pollicis longus (EPL) is the most commonly injured extensor tendon in the hand. Following repair of this tendon, whilst early active motion within a volar orthosis is simple and inexpensive, it is not known whether it is more effective at regaining thumb motion than immobilisation.

Methods

A prospective comparison pilot study including 20 outpatients with repaired EPL tendon lacerations in zones TIII–TV was undertaken. Participants were non-randomly allocated to either immobilisation group or early active motion. The primary outcome measure was thumb interphalangeal joint active extension–flexion. Secondary outcome measures were metacarphalangeal joint active extension–flexion, composite active thumb opposition and retropulsion, the patient-rated wrist/hand evaluation and return to work.

Results

At 8 weeks, the mean between-group differences for interphalangeal joint extension (−10°; 95% CI −1 to −19), metacarphalangeal joint extension (−12°; 95% CI −23 to −0.4) and composite thumb retropulsion as a percentage of uninjured side (42%; 95% CI 3–81) were all clinically important. There were no other significant between-group differences at 6 or 8 weeks, and no ruptures in either group.

Conclusion

This pilot comparison study indicated that early active motion has an effect on thumb interphalangeal joint extension, metacarphalangeal joint extension and composite thumb retropulsion by 8 weeks post-operatively. This study lends weight to the need for a properly conducted randomised controlled trial.
Utilization of Silver Hydrogel Sheet Dressing on Postsurgical Incisions
Authors: Galli Melissa M. , Protzman Nicole M. , Brigido Stephen A.
Published: October 2013

Silver hydrogel dressings are antimicrobial, nonadherent, and have an absorptive capacity many times their weight. Fifty-nine (49.44 ± 16.85 years) foot and ankle patients with incisions >1 cm were prospectively enrolled to compare infection, scarring, and complication rates between the postoperative use of a silver hydrogel sheet (SHS) dressing and a standard petroleum-based (P) dressing. Overall, there were 5 (8.47%) infections; 4 (6.78%) superficial and 1 (1.69%) deep. The SHS group had 1 (3.45%) superficial infection, whereas the P group had 3 (10.00%) superficial infections and 1 (3.33%) deep infection. Infection incidence was similar for both groups ( P = .37). However, in the P group, 3 (10.00%) patients developed wound dehiscence and 1 (1.69%) patient developed a fibrinous scab. Compared with SHS patients, the P patients had a greater incidence of incisional complications (1 [3.45%] vs 8 [26.67%], respectively; P = .03). The percent change in scar length was greater in the SHS group (18.04 ± 41.10%) when compared with the P group (2.00 ± 9.93%; P < .001) while the percent change in scar width was similar in the 2 groups ( P = .19). The lower incidence of incisional complications and the greater reduction in scar length suggest that the inherent properties of the silver hydrogel dressing aid in postsurgical healing.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level II: Prospective comparative trial, pilot study
Comparative Study of Scarf and Extended Chevron Osteotomies for Correction of Hallux Valgus
Authors: Vopat Bryan G. , Lareau Craig R. , Johnson Julie , Reinert Steven E. , DiGiovanni Christopher W.
Published: October 2013

Background

Scarf and chevron osteotomies are two described treatments for the correction of hallux valgus deformity, but they have traditionally been employed for different levels of severity. We hypothesized that there would be no statistically significant difference between the results of these two treatments.

Methods

This study is a retrospective review of 70 consecutive patients treated operatively for moderate and severe hallux valgus malalignment. The two groups based on their operative treatment: scarf osteotomy (Group A) and extended chevron osteotomy (Group B). Preoperative and postoperative hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) were measured at final follow-up. Charts were also assessed to determine the postoperative rate of satisfaction, stiffness, and pain.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between Groups A and B with regard to the HVA preoperatively and postoperatively. The DMAA was statistically significantly higher for Group B both preoperatively (p=0.0403) and postoperatively (p<0.0001). The differences in HVA correction and IMA correction were not statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences with regard to post-operative stiffness, pain, and satisfaction.

Discussion

The scarf and extended chevron osteotomies are capable of adequately reducing the HVA and IMA in patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus. These two techniques yielded similar patient outcomes in terms of stiffness, pain and satisfaction. Based on these results, we recommend both the scarf and extended chevron osteotomy as acceptable forms of correction for moderate to severe hallux valgus. Levels of Evidence: III, Retrospective Comparative Study
Pharmacogenetics of analgesic drugs
Authors: Cregg Roman , Russo Giovanna , Gubbay Anthony , Branford Ruth , Sato Hiroe
Published: October 2013

Summary points

• Individual variability in pain perception and differences in the efficacy of analgesic drugs are complex phenomena and are partly genetically predetermined.

• Analgesics act in various ways on the peripheral and central pain pathways and are regarded as one of the most valuable but equally dangerous groups of medications.

• While pharmacokinetic properties of drugs, metabolism in particular, have been scrutinised by genotype–phenotype correlation studies, the clinical significance of inherited variants in genes governing pharmacodynamics of analgesics remains largely unexplored (apart from the µ-opioid receptor).

• Lack of replication of the findings from one study to another makes meaningful personalised analgesic regime still a distant future.

• This narrative review will focus on findings related to pharmacogenetics of commonly used analgesic medications and highlight authors’ views on future clinical implications of pharmacogenetics in the context of pharmacological treatment of chronic pain.
Gatekeepers
Authors: Wells Lenard
Published: October 2013

Criminal history and race have been prominent figures in the research of discrimination in the labor market. Initially there was a heavy reliance on statistical analysis of employment data as an indicator of bias in employment. The use of field experiments that use audits conducted by testers applying for entry-level positions has become an important resource in the examination of discrimination in the labor force. The testers are matched on all characteristics, but race. In the present study, evidence of discrimination relied heavily on a comparison of callbacks for entry-level positions of Black male and White male testers based on their race and criminal history. Testers were required to participate in debriefings and maintain a diary of all of their interactions during the application process. Three themes emerged from the diaries and debriefings of the testers: (a) the application process was influenced by a “gatekeeper,” (b) racism was evident, and (c) an emotional effect was noted on both testers.
Open Access, Megajournals, and MOOCs
Authors: Wellen Richard
Published: October 2013

The development of “open” academic content has been strongly embraced and promoted by many advocates, analysts, stakeholders, and reformers in the sector of higher education and academic publishing. The two most well-known developments are open access scholarly publishing and Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs), each of which are connected to disruptive innovations enabled by new technologies. Support for these new modes of exchanging knowledge is linked to the expectation that they will promote a number of public interest benefits, including widening the impact, productivity, and format of academic work; reforming higher education and scholarly publishing markets; and relieving some of the cost pressures in academia. This article examines the rapid emergence of policy initiatives in the United Kingdom and the United States to promote open content and to bring about a new relationship between the market and the academic commons. In doing so, I examine controversial forms of academic unbundling such as open access megajournals and MOOCs and place each in the context of the heightened emphasis on productivity and impact in new regulatory regimes in the area of higher education.
A Case of Adenomyosis with a High Titer of IgG Autoantibody to Calreticulin
Authors: Gude Neil M. , Stevenson Janet L. , Sheehan Penelope M. , Brennecke Shaun P.
Published: October 2013

Background. High prevalence of autoantibodies to the calcium-binding, endoplasmic reticulum chaperone protein calreticulin has been reported in various autoimmune and parasitic diseases. It has been reported that adenomyosis is associated with the presence of autoantibodies, in particular to phospholipids; however, it is not known whether it is associated with autoimmunity to calreticulin. Results. A 35-year-old gravida 4 para 4 woman presented with a history of many years of intractable menorrhagia. Histopathological examination of a subsequent hysterectomy specimen revealed a bulky uterus, a poorly developed secretory endometrium with decidualization of the stroma and chronic endometritis, as well as the presence of adenomyosis uteri. IgG autoantibodies to calreticulin were measured in the plasma of this and 234 other patients. Nine (3.8%) patients tested positive. The titer of anticalreticulin IgG autoantibody in the sole case with adenomyosis was approximately 8 times the average of other positive-testing samples. Conclusions. The etiology of adenomyosis is unclear. The presence of a high titer, blocking anticalreticulin autoantibody may directly increase the risk that adenomyosis might develop. It is also possible that the expansion of endometrial glandular tissue, as well as elevated estrogens, during adenomyosis may lead to elevated calreticulin, which induces an autoimmune reaction to it. Further study is required to determine whether there is a significant association between adenomyosis and the prevalence of calreticulin autoantibodies.
Long-term outcome and prospective validation of NIH response criteria in 39 patients receiving imatinib for steroid-refractory chronic GVHD
Authors: Olivieri Attilio , Cimminiello Michele , Corradini Paolo , Mordini Nicola , Fedele Roberta , Selleri Carmine , Onida Francesco , Patriarca Francesca , Pavone Enzo , Svegliati Silvia , Gabrielli Armando , Bresciani Paola , Nuccorini Roberta , Pascale Sara , Coluzzi Sabrina , Pane Fabrizio , Poloni Antonella , Olivieri Jacopo , Leoni Pietro , Bacigalupo Andrea
Published: October 2013

Key Points

Efficacy of imatinib in steroid-refractory chronic GVHD was prospectively compared across 3 different response systems, with high agreement. Validity of quantitative-based assessment of response with NIH criteria was confirmed by its prognostic impact on long-term survival.
HIV-1 infection, response to treatment and establishment of viral latency in a novel humanized T cell-only mouse (TOM) model
Authors: Honeycutt Jenna B , Wahl Angela , Archin Nancie , Choudhary Shailesh , Margolis David , Garcia J Victor
Published: October 2013

Background

The major targets of HIV infection in humans are CD4+T cells. CD4+T cell depletion is a hallmark of AIDS. Previously, the SCID-hu thy/liv model was used to study the effect of HIV on thymopoeisisin vivo. However, these mice did not develop high levels of peripheral T cell reconstitution and required invasive surgery for infection and analysis. Here, we describe a novel variant of this model in which thy/liv implantation results in systemic reconstitution with human T cells in the absence of any other human hematopoietic lineages.

Results

NOD/SCID-hu thy/liv and NSG-hu thy/liv mice were created by implanting human fetal thymus and liver tissues under the kidney capsule of either NOD/SCID or NSG mice. In contrast to NOD/SCID-hu thy/liv mice that show little or no human cells in peripheral blood or tissues, substantial systemic human reconstitution occurs in NSG-hu thy/liv. These mice are exclusively reconstituted with human T cells (i.e. T-cell only mice or TOM). Despite substantial levels of human T cells no signs of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) were noted in these mice over a period of 14 months. TOM are readily infected after parenteral exposure to HIV-1. HIV replication is sustained in peripheral blood at high levels and results in modest reduction of CD4+T cells. HIV-1 replication in TOM responds to daily administration of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) resulting in strong suppression of virus replication as determined by undetectable viral load in plasma. Latently HIV infected resting CD4+T cells can be isolated from suppressed mice that can be induced to express HIVex-vivoupon activation demonstrating the establishment of latencyin vivo.

Conclusions

NSG-hu thy/liv mice are systemically reconstituted with human T cells. No other human lymphoid lineages are present in these mice (i.e. monocytes/macrophages, B cells and DC are all absent). These T cell only mice do not develop GVHD, are susceptible to HIV-1 infection and can efficiently maintain virus replication. HIV infected TOM undergoing ART harbor latently infected, resting CD4+T cells.
Expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and vascular density in mammary adenomas and adenocarcinomas in bitches
Authors: Madej Janusz A , Madej Jan P , Dziegiel Piotr , Pula Bartosz , Nowak Marcin
Published: October 2013

Background

The study aimed at examining hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)1α expression in adenocarcinomas and adenomas in bitches in regard to tumour malignancy grade, proliferation, apoptosis and vascularisation. Therefore, paraffin sections of 15 adenomas and 64 adenocarcinomas sampled from 79 dogs aged 6 to 16 years were analysed.

Results

A significantly higher HIF-1α expression was noted in adenocarcinomas in comparison to adenomas (P < 0.0004). Moreover, HIF-1α expression in adenocarcinomas correlated positively with tumour malignancy grade (r = 0.59, P < 0.05), Ki-67 antigen expression (r = 0.43; P < 0.0005), TUNEL-positive cells (r = 0.62, P < 0001) and tumour vascularity measured by quantification of vessels characterized by the expression of von Willebrand Factor (r = 0.57, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Results of this study indicate a similar biological role of HIF-1α in dogs and in humans, which may confirm suitability of the animal model in investigations on progression of tumours in humans.
ROCK inhibitor, Y-27632, reduces FBS-induced structural alteration in organ-cultured mesenteric artery
Authors: Huh Yang Hoon , Kweon Hee-Seok , Kitazawa Toshio
Published: October 2013

Background

Chronic treatment with fetal bovine serum (FBS) causes gradual vasoconstriction, vascular wall thickening, and contractility reduction in organ-cultured vascular tissues. We have previously demonstrated that Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) inhibitors prevent the functional alterations of small arteries in response to the FBS treatment. Here, we tested a further hypothesis that the chronic inhibition of ROCK has a protective effect on FBS-induced structural alterations.

Methods

To verify the new hypothesis, the rabbit mesenteric arterial rings were cultured in FBS-supplemented culture medium with or without Y-27632, a reversible ROCK inhibitor and then western blot, immunohistochemistry, apoptosis assay, and electron microscopy were performed using organ-cultured arterial rings.

Results

Chronic treatment with Y-27632 maintained the arterial diameter by preventing FBS-induced gradual arterial constriction during organ culture. Y-27632 also reduced the apoptosis and the loss of contractile myosin and actin filaments of smooth muscle cells. In addition, Y-27632 protected the morphological integrity between the endothelial cell layer and smooth muscle cell layer by preventing endothelial cell detachment and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (PECAM) expression decrement.

Conclusions

Chronic ROCK inhibition provides protective effects against FBS-stimulated structural in addition to functional alterations of vascular smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. These results strongly suggest that the RhoA/ROCK signaling is crucial for maintaining the structural and functional phenotypes of vasculature, and hence, chronic ROCK inhibition may provide protective effects on excessive growth factor-related vascular diseases including hypertension and atherosclerosis.
Floating layer formation, foaming, and microbial community structure change in full-scale biogas plant due to disruption of mixing and substrate overloading
Authors: Lienen Tobias , Kleyböcker Anne , Brehmer Manuel , Kraume Matthias , Moeller Lucie , Görsch Kati , Würdemann Hilke
Published: October 2013

Background

The use of biogas as renewable resource of energy is of growing interest. To increase the efficiency and sustainability of anaerobic biogas reactors, process failures such as overacidification, foaming, and floating layers need to be investigated to develop sufficient countermeasures and early warning systems to prevent failure.

Methods

Chemical, rheological, and molecular biological analyses were conducted to investigate a stirring disruption in a full-scale biogas plant.

Results

After the agitation system was disturbed, foaming and floating layer formation appeared in a full-scale biogas plant fed with liquid manure and biogenic waste. Rheological characterizations and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) revealed a breakdown of the circulation within the reactor and a large stagnation zone in the upper reactor volume. Molecular biological analyses of the microbial community composition in the floating layer showed no differences to the digestate. However, the microbial community in the digestates changed significantly due to the stirring disturbances. Foam formation turned out to be a consequence of overloading due to excessive substrate supply and disturbed mixing. The subsequent increase in concentration of both acetic and propionic acids was accompanied by foaming.

Conclusions

Effective mixing in full-scale biogas plants is crucial to avoid foaming and floating layers and to enhance sustainability. Disturbed mixing leads to process imbalances and significant changes in the microbial community structure. Additionally, controlled feeding might help prevent foam formation due to overloading.
Detection and control of Ganoderma boninense: strategies and perspectives
Authors: Hushiarian Roozbeh , Yusof Nor Azah , Dutse Sabo Wada
Published: October 2013

The oil palm, an economically important tree, has been one of the world’s major sources of edible oil and a significant precursor of biodiesel fuel. Unfortunately, it now faces the threat of a devastating disease. Many researchers have identifiedGanoderma boninenseas the major pathogen that affects the oil palm tree and eventually kills it. But identification of the pathogen is just the first step. No single method has yet been able to halt the continuing spread of the disease. This paper discusses the modes of infection and transmission ofGanoderma boninenseand suggests techniques for its early detection. Additionally, the paper proposes some possible ways of controlling the disease. Such measures, if implemented, could contribute significantly to the sustainability of the palm oil industry in South East Asia.
The influence of cathelicidin LL37 in human anti-neutrophils cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis
Authors: Zhang Ying , Shi Weiwei , Tang Sha , Li Jingyi , Yin Shiwei , Gao Xuejing , Wang Li , Zou Liyun , Zhao Jinghong , Huang Yunjian , Shan Lianyu , Gounni Abdelilah S , Wu Yuzhang , Yuan Fahuan , Zhang Jingbo
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is characterised by the autoinflammation and necrosis of blood vessel walls. The renal involvement is commonly characterised by a pauci-immune crescentic glomerulonephritis (PiCGN) with a very rapid decline in renal function. Cathelicidin LL37, an endogenous antimicrobial peptide, has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. To assess whether serum LL37 reflects renal crescentic formation, we measured the serum levels of LL37 in AAV patients with and without crescentic glomerulonephritis (crescentic GN) as compared to healthy controls (HCs). We also analysed the correlation of the serum levels of LL37 and interferon-α (IFN-α) with the clinical characteristics of the patients.

Methods

The study population consisted of 85 AAV patients and 51 HCs. In 40 ANCA-positive patients, a parallel analysis was performed, including the assessment of LL37 and IFN-α levels in the serum and renal biopsies. Of those studied, 15 AAV patients had biopsy-proven crescentic GN, and 25 AAV patients lacked crescent formation. The serum levels of cathelicidin LL37 and IFN-α were both measured by ELISA, and the clinical and serological parameters were assessed according to routine procedures. Immunofluorescence staining was performed on frozen sections of kidney needle biopsies from AAV patients with crescentic GN.

Results

The serum levels of LL37 and IFN-α were significantly increased in AAV patients with crescentic GN compared to AAV patients without crescentic formation and HCs, and patients with high LL37 and IFN-α levels were more likely to be in the crescentic GN group. The LL37 levels were positively correlated with the IFN-α levels, and both LL37 and IFN-α levels showed a positive correlation with serum creatinine and no correlation with complement C3. The renal tissue of crescentic GN patients showed expression of LL37 and IFN-α at the Bowman’s capsule and extracellular sites, suggesting the active release of LL37 and IFN-α.

Conclusions

Significantly higher levels of LL-37 and IFN-α were observed in AAV patients, particularly those with crescentic formation, and LL37 and IFN-α were expressed in the renal tissue of patients with crescentic GN. These data suggest that serum levels of LL37 and IFN-α may reflect both local renal inflammation and systemic inflammation.
Seismic multiattribute analysis for shale gas/oil within the Austin Chalk and Eagle Ford Shale in a submarine volcanic terrain, Maverick Basin, South Texas
Authors: Ogiesoba Osareni C. , Eastwood Ray
Published: October 2013

We conducted seismic multiattribute analysis by combining seismic data with wireline logs to determine hydrocarbon sweet spots and predict resistivity distribution (using the deep induction log) within the Austin Chalk and Eagle Ford Shale in South Texas. Our investigations found that hydrocarbon sweet spots are characterized by high resistivity, high total organic carbon (TOC), high acoustic impedance (i.e., high brittleness), and low bulk volume water (BVW), suggesting that a combination of these log properties is required to identify sweet spots. Although the lower Austin Chalk and upper and lower Eagle Ford Shale intervals constitute hydrocarbon-sweet-spot zones, resistivity values and TOC concentrations are not evenly distributed; thus, the rock intervals are not productive everywhere. Most productive zones within the lower Austin Chalk are associated with Eagle Ford Shale vertical-subvertical en echelon faults, suggesting hydrocarbon migration from the Eagle Ford Shale. Although the quality factor (Q) was not one of the primary attributes for predicting resistivity, it nevertheless can serve as a good reconnaissance tool for predicting resistivity, brittleness, and BVW-saturated zones. In addition, local hydrocarbon accumulations within the Austin Chalk may be related to Austin TOC-rich zones or to migration from the Eagle Ford Shale through fractures. Some wells have high water production because the water-bearing middle Austin Chalk on the downthrown side of Eagle Ford Shale regional faults constitutes a large section of the horizontal well, as evidenced by the Q attribute. Furthermore, the lower Austin Chalk and upper Eagle Ford Shale together appear to constitute a continuous (unconventional) hydrocarbon play.
Paratheological Blackness
Authors: Carter J. Kameron
Published: October 2013

I argue in this essay that blackness can and should be thought of as a paratheological ghosting of modernity, where modernity is to be understood as a practice of sovereignty or political theology. As paratheological, blackness has an appositional—and not merely an oppositional—relationship to modernity’s theological protocols, whose scripts are often hidden under the veil of what has come to be called the secular. Thus, blackness names an ecumenical mode of existence, a spirituality, an imagination that is always already in flight. This is to say, paratheologically understood blackness is oceanic, of the Middle Passage, and in the future tense or the not-yet as a trace within the now. I situate and elaborate this claim in relationship to Nahum Chandler’s investigation of modernity as a project of purity, Hortense Spillers’s reflections on the pornotroping of the flesh, and Richard Wright’s unpublished story “When the World Was Red.”
“One Percenters”: Black Atheists, Secular Humanists, and Naturalists
Authors: Hart William David
Published: October 2013

This essay explores an emergent black atheist, secular humanist, and naturalistic imagination. Based on a 2007 survey by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life that measured the percentage of African Americans holding such views, I refer to this group as “one percenters.” Broadly speaking, one percenters view human nature and destiny (necessity and historical contingency) through an anthropological rather than a theological lens. As three perspectives on the same phenomenon, they are the dialectical other of theism and conventional forms of religion. In all three cases, negating theism does “positive” productive and creative work, energizing a different kind of affirmation. Nuances in rhetoric, emotional color, and practical engagement with religious cultures and institutions create distinctions among atheists, secular humanists, and naturalists that are more than merely artful and stylized. These nuances reveal different understandings of what nonbelief entails in matters of conduct and whether the negative and epistemic category of “nonbelief” properly describes their difference from theists.
Race, Theodicy, and the Normative Emancipatory Challenges of Blackness
Authors: Gordon Lewis R.
Published: October 2013

Drawing on Sylvia Wynter’s insight that the theodicean grammar of racism is also a “biodicy,” this article explores its implications for an understanding of the formation of blackness as a modern phenomenon and its significance for models of rationalization and reason, on the one hand, and conditions of normative practice, on the other.
Blackness and Nothingness (Mysticism in the Flesh)
Authors: Moten Fred
Published: October 2013

In taking up the profound and necessary challenge of Afro-pessimism, scholars engaged in black study must not only attend to the relation between blackness and nothingness that Frank B. Wilderson III and Jared Sexton elaborate in their encounter with the work of Frantz Fanon but must also investigate the resonance, presence, and topography of blackness in and as nothingness that is manifest at the intersection of mysticism and logic in black study. This essay is an attempt to contribute to that investigation.
Reflections on the History of Debt Resistance: The Case of El Barzón
Authors: Caffentzis George
Published: October 2013

The history of debt resistance has many lessons for those involved in the making of a new debtors’ movement in the United States. This article attempts to articulate these lessons by concentrating on the experience of the most important debtors’ movement in Mexico of the 1990s, El Barzón. The first part of the article clarifies an important distinction between “profit debt” and “use-value debt.” These two kinds of debt do not dichotomously divide class societies. For example, both capitalists and proletarians incur both “profit debt” and “use-value debt.” The categorically mixed character of debt makes for the mixed-class composition of many debtors’ movements in history. The second part of the article examines the rise and decline of the El Barzón movement. It went from being an obscure farmers’ organization in 1993 to a nationwide political-economic force in Mexico in just three years. The strategy and tactics of the movement are examined, and its rapid decline is explained. The final section outlines a number of challenges faced by contemporary debtors’ organizations like Strike Debt that emerge from the history of debt resistance and are illuminated by the story of El Barzón. For example, can the internal contradictions generated by debt’s mixed-class character be overcome by debt resistance organizations in the United States like Strike Debt?
The Climate Crisis Is a Debt Crisis
Authors: Mirzoeff Nicholas
Published: October 2013

The climate crisis is intimately related to the debt crisis. First, developed nations owe a climate debt to developing nations, meaning extra space under the emissions limits to develop the former’s economies. Second, the need to restrict emissions means that growth-based solutions to the debt crisis cannot stand. Finally, disaster relief is provided primarily in the form of interest-bearing loans rather than grants. A debt strike is therefore also a climate strike.
A self-renewing division of zebrafish Müller glial cells generates neuronal progenitors that require N-cadherin to regenerate retinal neurons
Authors: Nagashima Mikiko , Barthel Linda K. , Raymond Pamela A.
Published: October 2013

Müller glia function as retinal stem cells in adult zebrafish. In response to loss of retinal neurons, Müller glia partially dedifferentiate, re-express neuroepithelial markers and re-enter the cell cycle. We show that the immunoglobulin superfamily adhesion molecule Alcama is a novel marker of multipotent retinal stem cells, including injury-induced Müller glia, and that each Müller glial cell divides asymmetrically only once to produce an Alcama-negative, proliferating retinal progenitor. The initial mitotic division of Müller glia involves interkinetic nuclear migration, but mitosis of retinal progenitors occurs in situ. Rapidly dividing retinal progenitors form neurogenic clusters tightly associated with Alcama/N-cadherin-labeled Müller glial radial processes. Genetic suppression of N-cadherin function interferes with basal migration of retinal progenitors and subsequent regeneration of HuC/D+ inner retinal neurons.
A missense mutation accelerating the gating of the lysosomal Cl-/H+-exchanger ClC-7/Ostm1 causes osteopetrosis with gingival hamartomas in cattle
Authors: Sartelet Arnaud , Stauber Tobias , Coppieters Wouter , Ludwig Carmen F. , Fasquelle Corinne , Druet Tom , Zhang Zhiyan , Ahariz Naima , Cambisano Nadine , Jentsch Thomas J. , Charlier Carole
Published: October 2013

Chloride/proton exchange by the lysosomal anion transporter ClC-7/Ostm1 is of pivotal importance for the physiology of lysosomes and bone resorption. Mice lacking either ClC-7 or Ostm1 develop a lysosomal storage disease and mutations in either protein have been found to underlie osteopetrosis in mice and humans. Some human disease-causing CLCN7 mutations accelerate the usually slow voltage-dependent gating of ClC-7/Ostm1. However, it has remained unclear whether the fastened kinetics is indeed causative for the disease. Here we identified and characterized a new deleterious ClC-7 mutation in Belgian Blue cattle with a severe symptomatology including perinatal lethality and in most cases gingival hamartomas. By autozygosity mapping and genome-wide sequencing we found a handful of candidate variants, including a cluster of three private SNPs causing the substitution of a conserved tyrosine in the CBS2 domain of ClC-7 by glutamine. The case for ClC-7 was strengthened by subsequent examination of affected calves that revealed severe osteopetrosis. The Y750Q mutation largely preserved the lysosomal localization and assembly of ClC-7/Ostm1, but drastically accelerated its activation by membrane depolarization. These data provide first evidence that accelerated ClC-7/Ostm1 gating per se is deleterious, highlighting a physiological importance of the slow voltage-activation of ClC-7/Ostm1 in lysosomal function and bone resorption.
Oleoylethanolamide enhances β-adrenergic-mediated thermogenesis and white-to-brown adipocyte phenotype in epididymal white adipose tissue in rat
Authors: Suárez Juan , Rivera Patricia , Arrabal Sergio , Crespillo Ana , Serrano Antonia , Baixeras Elena , Pavón Francisco J. , Cifuentes Manuel , Nogueiras Rubén , Ballesteros Joan , Dieguez Carlos , Rodríguez de Fonseca Fernando
Published: October 2013

β-adrenergic receptor activation promotes brown adipose tissue (BAT) β-oxidation and thermogenesis by burning fatty acids during uncoupling respiration. Oleoylethanolamide (OEA) can inhibit feeding and stimulate lipolysis by activating the peroxisome proliferator-activating receptor-α (PPARα) in the white adipose tissue (WAT). Here we explore whether PPARα activation potentiates the effect of β3-adrenergic stimulation on energy balance mediated by the respective agonists OEA and CL316243. The effect of this pharmacological association was monitored on feeding, thermogenesis, β-oxidation and lipid/cholesterol metabolism in epididymal (e)WAT. CL316243 (1 mg/kg) and OEA (5 mg/kg) co-administration over 6 days enhanced the reduction of food intake and body weight gain, increased the energy expenditure and reduced the respiratory quotient (VCO2/VO2). This negative energy balance agreed with decreased fat mass and increased BAT weight and temperature, as well as lowered plasma levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, NEFAs and the adipokines leptin and TNF-α. Regarding eWAT, CL316243 and OEA treatment elevated the thermogenic factors PPARα and UCP1, reduced p38-MAPK phosphorylation, and promoted brown-like features in the white adipocytes, as the mitochondrial (Cox4i1, Cox4i2) and BAT (Fgf21, Prdm16) genes were over-expressed in eWAT. The enhancement of the fatty acid β-oxidation factors Cpt1b and Acox1 in eWAT was accompanied with an up-regulation of de novo lipogenesis and a reduction of the unsaturated fatty acid synthesis enzyme Scd1. We propose that the combination of β-adrenergic and PPARα receptor agonists promote therapeutic adipocyte remodelling in eWAT that confer a potential clinical utility for the treatment of obesity.
Genome-wide identification of mRNAs associated with the protein SMN whose depletion decreases their axonal localization
Authors: Rage Florence , Boulisfane Nawal , Rihan Khalil , Neel Henry , Gostan Thierry , Bertrand Edouard , Bordonné Rémy , Soret Johann
Published: October 2013

Spinal muscular atrophy is a neuromuscular disease resulting from mutations in the SMN1 gene, which encodes the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. SMN is part of a large complex that is essential for the biogenesis of spliceosomal small nuclear RNPs. SMN also colocalizes with mRNAs in granules that are actively transported in neuronal processes, supporting the hypothesis that SMN is involved in axonal trafficking of mRNPs. Here, we have performed a genome-wide analysis of RNAs present in complexes containing the SMN protein and identified more than 200 mRNAs associated with SMN in differentiated NSC-34 motor neuron-like cells. Remarkably, ∼30% are described to localize in axons of different neuron types. In situ hybridization and immuno-fluorescence experiments performed on several candidates indicate that these mRNAs colocalize with the SMN protein in neurites and axons of differentiated NSC-34 cells. Moreover, they localize in cell processes in an SMN-dependent manner. Thus, low SMN levels might result in localization deficiencies of mRNAs required for axonogenesis.
Structural and functional analysis of Utp23, a yeast ribosome synthesis factor with degenerate PIN domain
Authors: Lu Jing , Sun Mengyi , Ye Keqiong
Published: October 2013

During synthesis of yeast ribosome, a large complex, called the 90S pre-ribosome or the small subunit processome, is assembled on the nascent precursor rRNA and mediates early processing of 18S rRNA. The Utp23 protein and snR30 H/ACA snoRNA are two conserved components of 90S pre-ribosomes. Utp23 contains a degenerate PIN nuclease domain followed by a long C-terminal tail and associates specifically with snR30. Here, we report the crystal structure of the Utp23 PIN domain at 2.5-Å resolution. The structure reveals a conserved core fold of PIN domain with degenerate active site residues, a unique CCHC Zn-finger motif, and two terminal extension elements. Functional sites of Utp23 have been examined with conservation analysis, mutagenesis, and in vivo and in vitro assays. Mutations in each of three cysteine ligands of zinc, although not the histidine ligand, were lethal or strongly inhibitory to yeast growth, indicating that the Zn-finger motif is required for Utp23 structure or function. The N-terminal helix extension harbors many highly conserved basic residues that mostly are critical for growth and in vitro RNA-binding activity of Utp23. Deletion of the C-terminal tail, which contains a short functionally important sequence motif, disrupted the interaction of Utp23 with snR30 and perturbed the pre-ribosomal association of Utp23. Our data establish a structural framework for dissecting Utp23 function in the assembly and dynamics of 90S pre-ribosomes.
Product Diversion to a Direct Competitor
Authors: Shulman Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2013

A manufacturer will often limit competition among downstream partners by authorizing only a select group of retailers to carry its product. However, it is not uncommon for authorized retailers to create an additional competitor by diverting units to an unauthorized seller. This paper presents an analytical model that demonstrates how diversion from authorized retailers to an unauthorized direct competitor can occur under circumstances not considered by the prior literature. In fact, diversion can represent a prisoner's dilemma whereby retailers diminish their own profit by selling to the unauthorized direct seller. The authorized retailer's profit loss actually increases as the per-unit diversion costs incurred by the authorized retailer decrease. The model also shows that the unauthorized direct seller earns greater profit by strategically procuring a unilaterally constraining quantity, even though this procurement strategy results in an equivalent increase in the quantity sold by the retailers. Combined, the results identify a new reason for diversion and its consequences for retailers and the unauthorized direct seller.
Job Hopping, Information Technology Spillovers, and Productivity Growth
Authors: Tambe Prasanna , Hitt Lorin M.
Published: October 2013

The movement of information technology (IT) workers among firms is believed to be an important mechanism by which IT-related innovations diffuse throughout the economy. We use a newly developed source of employee microdata—an online resume database—to model IT workers' mobility patterns. We find that firms derive significant productivity benefits from the IT investments of other firms from which they hire IT labor. Our estimates indicate that over the last two decades, productivity spillovers from the IT investments of other firms transmitted through this channel have contributed 20%–30% as much to productivity growth as firms' own IT investments. Moreover, we find that the productivity benefits of locating near other IT-intensive firms can primarily be explained by the mobility of technical workers within the region. Our results are unique to the flow of IT workers among firms, not other occupations, which rules out some alternative explanations related to the similarity of firms that participate in the same labor flow network.

This paper was accepted by Yu (Jeffrey) Hu, guest department editor, information systems.
Peroxiredoxin I and II in Human Eyes
Authors: Klebe Sonja , Callahan Thomas , Power John HT
Published: October 2013

Peroxiredoxin I and II are both 2-Cys members of the peroxiredoxin family of antioxidant enzymes and inactivate hydrogen peroxide. On western blotting, both enzymes appeared as 22-kD proteins and were present in the sclera, retina and iris. Immunohistochemistry showed strong cytoplasmic labeling in the basal cells of the corneal epithelial layer and the corneoscleral limbus. The melanocytes within the stroma of the iris and the anterior epithelial cells of the lens also showed strong cytoplasmic labeling. The fibrous structure of the stroma and the posterior surface of the ciliary body were also labeled. There was also strong labeling for both enzymes in the photoreceptors and the inner and outer plexiform layers of the retina. There was increased labeling of peroxiredoxin I and II in pterygium. In normal conjunctiva and cornea, only the basal cell layer showed labeling for peroxiredoxin I and II, whereas, in pterygia, there was strong cytoplasmic labeling in most cells involving the full thickness of the epithelium. Co-localization of the DNA oxidation product 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine antibody with the nuclear dye 4’,6’-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride indicated that the majority of the oxidative damage was cytoplasmic; this suggested that the mitochondrial DNA was most affected by the UV radiation in this condition.
The Potential Role of Oral Fluid in Antidoping Testing
Authors: Anizan Sebastien , Huestis Marilyn A
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Currently, urine and blood are the only matrices authorized for antidoping testing by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Although the usefulness of urine and blood is proven, issues remain for monitoring some drug classes and for drugs prohibited only in competition. The alternative matrix oral fluid (OF) may offer solutions to some of these issues. OF collection is easy, noninvasive, and sex neutral and is directly observed, limiting potential adulteration, a major problem for urine testing. OF is used to monitor drug intake in workplace, clinical toxicology, criminal justice, and driving under the influence of drugs programs and potentially could complement urine and blood for antidoping testing in sports.

CONTENT

This review outlines the present state of knowledge and the advantages and limitations of OF testing for each of the WADA drug classes and the research needed to advance OF testing as a viable alternative for antidoping testing.

Doping agents are either prohibited at all times or prohibited in competition only. Few OF data from controlled drug administration studies are available for substances banned at all times, whereas for some agents prohibited only in competition, sufficient data may be available to suggest appropriate analytes and cutoffs (analytical threshold concentrations) to identify recent drug use. Additional research is needed to characterize the disposition of many banned substances into OF; OF collection methods and doping agent stability in OF also require investigation to allow the accurate interpretation of OF tests for antidoping monitoring.
Barriers to Study Enrollment in Patients With Advanced Cancer Referred to a Phase I Clinical Trials Unit
Authors: Fu Siqing , McQuinn Lacey , Naing Aung , Wheler Jennifer J. , Janku Filip , Falchook Gerald S. , Piha-Paul Sarina A. , Tu Dennis , Howard Adrienne , Tsimberidou Apostolia , Zinner Ralph , Hong David S. , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: October 2013

Learning Objectives

Assess barriers for advanced cancer patients to participate in phase I trials. Discuss strategies to improve the rate of enrollment of cancer patients in phase I trials.
Clinical Efficacy of Targeted Biologic Agents as Second-Line Therapy of Advanced Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Owonikoko Taofeek K. , Chowdry Rajasree P. , Chen Zhengjia , Kim Sungjin , Saba Nabil F. , Shin Dong M. , Khuri Fadlo R.
Published: October 2013

Learning Objectives

List the therapeutic opportunities with tyrosine kinase inhibitors for advanced thyroid cancer, especially in the frontline setting. Describe and discuss the current knowledge and experience with salvage therapy with biologic agents for thyroid cancer.
Forage‐mediated density and climate effects on body mass in a temperate herbivore: a mechanistic approach
Authors: Giroux Marie-Andrée , Tremblay Jean-Pierre , Simard Marie Anouk , Yoccoz Nigel G. , Côté Steeve D.
Published: October 2013

The interplay between density and climate in shaping the dynamics of herbivore populations is widely acknowledged, and current research is fueled by the identification of mechanisms underlying their effects on individuals and populations. We assessed whether forage availability mediated the effects of density and winter climate on body mass of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) yearlings by experimentally reducing deer density to 7.5 and 15 deer/km2during eight growing seasons, and by using causal (graphical) hierarchical models and Bayesian hierarchical modeling to assess relationships. The abundance of preferred forage decreased with deer density and varied quadratically (positive parabola) with winter North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), whereas the fall mass of yearlings increased with forage abundance and spring mass. Fall mass did not differ between experimentally reduced deer densities, yet experimental yearlings were 30% heavier than yearlings harvested at ambient densities. Hence, forage abundance simultaneously mediated the effects of density and climate on fall body mass, which was also influenced by carry‐over effects of spring body mass. Our findings increase our ability to anticipate how temperate large herbivores will respond to ongoing changes in intrinsic (e.g., large‐herbivore density) and extrinsic (e.g., climate) factors.
Effect of a Lipid-Lowering Nutraceutical on Pulse-Wave-Velocity in Hypercholesterolemic
Patients with or without Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Cicero Arrigo F.G. , Parini Angelo , Rosticci Martina , Brancaleoni Barbara , Derosa Giuseppe , Grandi Elisa , Borghi Claudio
Published: October 2013

The recent literature has put a large interest on nutraceuticals with lipid lowering activity for the management
of moderate cholesterolemia in subjects with mildly increased cardiovascular disease risk. The aim of our study was to
evaluate the middle-term effect of a combined lipid-lowering nutraceutical on lipid parameters and aortic stiffness.

For this study we consecutively enrolled 40 moderately hypercholesterolemic outpatients with mild-to-moderate chronic
kidney disease (CKD) and 40 cross-matched hypercholesterolemic subjects without CKD. All the patient were treated
daily with a combined nutraceutical containing red yeast rice (3 mg monacolin K) and berberine (500 mg). At the baseline
and after 6 months of treatment we measured blood pressure, pulse wave velocity (PWV) and ematochemistry parameters.

No significant change has been observed during the study in both groups regarding body mass index, blood pressure, liver
transaminases, creatinin-phosfokinase and eGFR.

In non CKD patients TC improved by (-21,6%), LDL-Cholesterol by (-24,2%), non HDL-Cholesterol (-24,0%) and TG (-
20,8%).

In CKD patients TC improved by (-21,1%), LDL-Cholesterol by (-23,7%), non HDL-Cholesterol (-23,9%) and TG (-
20,4%).

No difference among groups has been observed regarding the effects on lipid metabolism.

The PWV has significantly improved in both groups (p<0.01) without differences between groups.

In summary, a combined lipid-lowering nutraceutical improved lipid pattern and PWV in both non CKD and mild-tomoderate
CKD patients.