bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Cognitive and Demographic Variables That Contribute to Carer Burden in Dementia
Authors: Miller Laurie A. , Mioshi Eneida , Savage Sharon , Lah Suncica , Hodges John R. , Piguet Olivier
Published: May 2013

Background/Aims: Carer burden has been associated with other carer-reported factors (e.g. depression), but less is known about the influence of more independent variables. We aimed to determine the impact of cognitive deficits, demographic variables and dementia subtype on carer burden. Methods: Patients with Alzheimer's dementia (n = 35) or frontotemporal lobar degeneration (n = 61) underwent assessment of anterograde memory, word generation, impulse control and emotion recognition. Age, sex, relationship type, disease duration and diagnosis were also considered. Carers completed the Zarit Burden Interview. Results: In bivariate regression analyses, carer burden was related to age, diagnosis, memory, impulse control and emotion recognition. Stepwise multivariate regression revealed independent contributions by patient age, memory and emotion recognition, explaining 23% of the variance. Conclusion: The findings could help refine interventions and carer support.
Impact of Cognitive Dysfunction on Drooling in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Rana Abdul Qayyum , Khondker Sumaiya , Kabir Ashish , Owalia Aida , Khondker Samreen , Emre Murat
Published: May 2013

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is commonly characterized by its motor symptoms such as resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and postural instability; however, some of the most debilitating symptoms of this disease are non-motor ones such as dementia and sialorrhea (drooling). Drooling is caused by impaired swallowing and it can have a significant impact on the quality of life. However, it is still unclear whether cognitive dysfunction could exacerbate drooling. We wanted to examine if any relationship existed between drooling and dementia in PD patients. Identifying the correlation will aid physicians to screen and initiate early management of drooling in the course of PD. This can possibly lead to improvements in the quality of life in these patients. Methods: In this retrospective study, we investigated the prevalence of drooling in 314 PD patients and further compared the difference in the prevalence of drooling in patients with dementia and without dementia. In addition, we studied the impact of gender on drooling in this patient population. Results: Our results show that a significant correlation exists between drooling and dementia in our sample of PD patients. Furthermore, in males, the correlation between the prevalence of drooling and dementia was found to be clinically significant as compared to the female population. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that drooling is a major concern in the course of PD and should therefore be addressed early and more aggressively in patients with dementia.
Pars Plana Vitrectomy and Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling in Epimacular Membranes: Correlation of Function and Morphology across the Macula
Authors: Mayer Wolfgang J. , Vogel Michaela , Neubauer Aljoscha , Kernt Marcus , Kampik Anselm , Wolf Armin , Haritoglou Christos
Published: May 2013

Purpose: To analyze the correlation between morphological and functional results 12 months after epiretinal membrane (ERM) surgery. Methods: 31 eyes from 31 consecutive patients with metamorphopsia and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) below 20/32 underwent a transconjunctival 23- gauge vitrectomy with ERM and internal limiting membrane peeling. Preoperatively and 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively, we assessed BCVA, microperimetry (MP-1) and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Photoreceptor inner and outer segment (IS/OS) was graded on SD-OCT images and correlated with microperimetry measurements in the fovea and parafoveal region. Results: The postoperative BCVA was significantly better in eyes with an intact IS/OS junction (p < 0.01). In addition, the mean defect depth was postoperatively decreased in the foveal and parafoveal area in eyes with an intact IS/OS junction. A correlation of SD-OCT IS/OS images and microperimetry in eyes with improvement in BCVA of at least 2 lines revealed a statistically significant result for the parafoveal quadrants (p < 0.011 for SD-OCT and p < 0.005 for microperimetry) but not for the foveal area alone. Conclusions: The IS/OS regeneration in the parafoveal quadrants contributes significantly to the recovery of BCVA following ERM surgery. Consequently, functional and morphological tests of the macular area should not be limited to the fovea but should be extended to the parafoveal region.
Prospective Pilot Study: Efficacy of Intravitreal Dexamethasone and Bevacizumab Injections in the Treatment of Macular Oedema Associated with Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Guignier B. , Subilia-Guignier A. , Fournier I. , Ballonzoli L. , Speeg-Schatz C. , Gaucher D.
Published: May 2013

Background/Aims: To compare the efficacy of intravitreal injections of dexamethasone implants (IVD) with those of bevacizumab (IVB) for the treatment of macular oedema associated with branch retinal vein occlusion. Methods: A total of 19 patients (19 eyes) were included in this prospective pilot study. Initially, 8 eyes received three IVBs (group 1) and 11 received one IVD (group 2). All the patients underwent a 1-, 3-, 4- and 6-month follow-up visit. A repeated IVB (group 1) or IVD (group 2) was proposed at 4 months when necessary. Results: The mean visual acuity was significantly better 1 month after treatment in group 2, while the mean central macular thickness was also significantly lower in group 2. However, there was no longer any difference between the two groups at 3, 4 and 6 months, neither in terms of visual acuity nor in terms of retinal thickness. More than three IVBs were needed in 3 of 10 patients in group 1 while two IVDs were required in 10 of 11 patients in group 2. Conclusion: There was no significant difference between the two treatment regimens at the 6-month follow-up visit. A more rapid functional and anatomical efficacy was noted with IVD during the first month; however, reinjection at 4 months seemed more frequent with IVD than with IVB treatment.
Penetrating or Stricturing Diseases are the Major Determinants of Time to First and Repeat Resection Surgery in Crohn's Disease
Authors: Pittet Valerie , Rogler Gerhard , Michetti Pierre , Fournier Nicolas , Vader John-Paul , Schoepfer Alain , Mottet Christian , Burnand Bernard , Froehlich Florian ,   for the Swiss Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cohort Study Group (see Appendix)
Published: May 2013

Background: About 80% of patients with Crohn's disease (CD) require bowel resection and up to 65% will undergo a second resection within 10 years. This study reports clinical risk factors for resection surgery (RS) and repeat RS. Methods: Retrospective cohort study, using data from patients included in the Swiss Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cohort. Cox regression analyses were performed to estimate rates of initial and repeated RS. Results: Out of 1,138 CD cohort patients, 417 (36.6%) had already undergone RS at the time of inclusion. Kaplan-Meier curves showed that the probability of being free of RS was 65% after 10 years, 42% after 20 years, and 23% after 40 years. Perianal involvement (PA) did not modify this probability to a significant extent. The main adjusted risk factors for RS were smoking at diagnosis (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.33; p = 0.006), stricturing with vs. without PA (HR = 4.91 vs. 4.11; p < 0.001) or penetrating disease with vs. without PA (HR = 3.53 vs. 4.58; p < 0.001). The risk factor for repeat RS was penetrating disease with vs. without PA (HR = 3.17 vs. 2.24; p < 0.05). Conclusion: The risk of RS was confirmed to be very high for CD in our cohort. Smoking status at diagnosis, but mostly penetrating and stricturing diseases increase the risk of RS.
Novel Long Noncoding RNAs Are Regulated by Angiotensin II in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Leung Amy , Trac Candi , Jin Wen , Lanting Linda , Akbany Asad , Sætrom Pål , Schones Dustin E. , Natarajan Rama
Published: May 2013

Rationale:

Misregulation of angiotensin II (Ang II) actions can lead to atherosclerosis and hypertension. Evaluating transcriptomic responses to Ang II in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is important to understand the gene networks regulated by Ang II, which might uncover previously unidentified mechanisms and new therapeutic targets.

Objective:

To identify all transcripts, including novel protein-coding and long noncoding RNAs, differentially expressed in response to Ang II in rat VSMCs using transcriptome and epigenome profiling.

Methods and Results:

De novo assembly of transcripts from RNA-sequencing revealed novel protein-coding and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). The majority of the genomic loci of these novel transcripts are enriched for histone H3 lysine-4-trimethylation and histone H3 lysine-36-trimethylation, 2 chromatin modifications found at actively transcribed regions, providing further evidence that these are bonafide transcripts. Analysis of transcript abundance identified all protein-coding and lncRNAs regulated by Ang II. We further discovered that an Ang II–regulated lncRNA functions as the host transcript for
miR-221
and
miR-222
, 2 microRNAs implicated in cell proliferation. Additionally, small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of
Lnc-Ang362
reduced proliferation of VSMCs.

Conclusions:

These data provide novel insights into the epigenomic and transcriptomic effects of Ang II in VSMCs. They provide the first identification of Ang II–regulated lncRNAs, which suggests functional roles for these lncRNAs in mediating cellular responses to Ang II. Furthermore, we identify an Ang II–regulated lncRNA that is responsible for the production of 2 microRNAs implicated in VSMC proliferation. These newly identified noncoding transcripts could be exploited as novel therapeutic targets for Ang II–associated cardiovascular diseases.
“Not Charity, but a Chance”: Philanthropic Capitalism and the Rise of American Thrift Stores, 1894–1930
Authors: Le Zotte Jennifer
Published: May 2013

Goods salvaging programs initiated by the Salvation Army and Morgan Memorial Goodwill Industries provided work, shelter, and clothing for charity-seekers, who transformed unwanted goods into viable consumer products. Called thrift stores in the U.S. by the 1920s, they represented a deliberate, profitable sea change in Christian-based community outreach, one requiring business savvy and an understanding of demographic shifts.
Effect of nitrogen supply form on the invasion of rice roots by the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne graminicola
Authors: Patil Jagadeesh , Miller Anthony J. , Gaur Hari S.
Published: May 2013

Rice is capable of taking up both nitrate (NO3−) and ammonical (NH4+) forms of nitrogen (N). It is largely grown under flooded cultivation when NH4+ is the main form of available soil N. The root knot nematode, Meloidogyne graminicola, can cause serious damage to rice crops and disturb N uptake and translocation. We have investigated if the N supply form can influence the susceptibility of rice to this important pest. Roots supplied with a 100-fold lower supply of calcium nitrate (0.1 mM Ca(NO3)2) showed a higher level of nematode infection as measured by the gall index. Plants supplied with 2.85 mM of Ca(NO3)2 were more infected compared with the same dose of ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) or ammonium chloride (NH4Cl). 15NO3− influx studies showed significantly smaller uptake of nitrate in nematode-infected roots when compared with non-infected control plants. The electrophysiological studies showed that resting cell membrane potentials of nematode-infected plants were significantly smaller (less negative) than those of non-infected control rice. Furthermore, when the cellular responses to NO3− were compared, these also showed significantly smaller nitrate transport activity in nematode-infected roots (4.7 ± 1.2 mV) when compared with non-infected control plants (11.9 ± 3.4 mV). Taken together, the 15NO3− influx and electrophysiological measurements clearly showed that the root NO3− transport activity was severely decreased in nematode-infected roots. The results also show that regulation of NO3− concentration at critical periods of nematode infection of rice root can provide a non-nematicidal method of nematode management.
Biology, growth parameters and enzymatic activity of Pochonia chlamydosporia isolated from potato cyst and root-knot nematodes
Authors: Vieira dos Santos M. Clara , Esteves Ivânia , Kerry Brian , Abrantes Isabel
Published: May 2013

Pochonia chlamydosporia, a widespread fungal parasite of potato cyst nematodes (PCN), Globodera spp., and root-knot nematodes (RKN), Meloidogyne spp., has been studied as a biological control agent. Three Portuguese isolates (Pc1, Pc2, Pc3) obtained from PCN eggs and two non-native isolates (Vc10, Pc280) were characterised using ERIC-PCR and screened by in vitro assays for their ability to produce chlamydospores, parasitise eggs of Globodera rostochiensis and Meloidogyne chitwoodi and colonise the rhizosphere of barley. The effects of temperature on growth, sporulation, parasitism and enzymatic activity were also evaluated. Isolates Pc1 and Pc3, despite their different geographical origins, had identical molecular profiles. Pc2 produced the higher numbers of chlamydospores in solid medium (1.15 × 107 chlamydospores g−1), whereas Pc3 produced the least (3 × 105 chlamydospores g−1). These isolates extensively colonised the rhizosphere of barley (>90% root fragments) and the proportion of parasitised eggs, detected on agar plates, was low (<60% for RKN and <55% for PCN), Pc1 being the best parasite against both nematode species. The influence of temperature was similar for all isolates: no growth was observed at 10, 33 and 35°C. Spores/hyphal fragments remained viable for nearly 1 month at 10 and 33°C and isolates resumed growth after incubation at 25°C, although chlamydospores and conidia production, viability and nematode egg parasitism were affected. Exposure to 35°C was lethal for isolates Pc1, Pc2 and Pc280. When grown in liquid media all isolates produced esterases, but protease activity was only observed in Pc2 and Vc10. The highest enzymatic activity was detected in isolate Pc2 in low nutrient media. Enzymatic activity decreased in the presence of nematode eggs for both Pc2 and Vc10. Molecular, biochemical and biological analyses, including biotic and abiotic factors, are important in the screening of potential biological control agents, particularly in the case of P. chlamydosporia, due to the high variability among isolates.
Nepenthes alzapan (Nepenthaceae), a new species from Luzon, Philippines
Authors: CHEEK MARTIN , JEBB MATTHEW
Published: May 2013

This paper forms a part of the studies towards a World Monograph of Nepenthes Linnaeus (1753: 955) building on a Skeletal Revision of Nepenthes (Jebb & Cheek 1997) and the Flora Malesiana account (Cheek & Jebb 2001). In the course of studying previously unseen specimens from the Philippines, four sheets (Ramos & Edanõ 45690, K, NY, UC, US), of a species previously unknown came to light from Mt Alzapan. The oblong, glabrous, ligulate, sessile leaf-blades with 5–7 pairs of nearly evenly spaced longitudinal nerves placed the species unambiguously in the Insignes group of Danser (1928) which is restricted to the Philippines apart from one species, N. insignis Danser (1928: 314), in New Guinea and, more ambiguously, N. northiana Hooker, J.D. (1881: 717) in Borneo (Cheek & Jebb 2001).
Thermoelastic analysis of three-dimensional functionally graded rotating disks based on finite volume method
Authors: Gong Jing-Feng , Ming Ping-Jian , Xuan Ling-Kuan , Zhang Wen-Ping
Published: May 2013

In this study, a finite volume method for the steady thermoelastic analysis of the functionally graded materials is presented. The method is validated in a benchmark case from the published paper. By incorporating the variation of material properties in the discretization process, the method is able to avoid discontinuous distributions of stresses. Two different formulations for the calculation of variable gradients are assessed. The numerical results show that the least square method achieves better performances than the Gaussian method but least square method costs slightly more iteration and computer memory under different mesh types. Then the method is applied to analyze thermoelastic problems of the functionally graded circular rotating disk under different conditions. The effects of thickness, material properties, reference temperature and temperature difference between the inner and outer surfaces on the thermoelastic performance of the disk have been studied.
The sociology of sleep and the measure of social acceleration
Authors: Hsu Eric L
Published: May 2013

Within Western contemporary social thought, the claim that social acceleration is a key feature of the late-modern world has been widely circulated. A criticism of this argument is that it is often based on conjecture and hyperbole instead of on actual empirical evidence (Rosa and Scheuerman, 2009; Wajcman, 2008). A viable way to subject the social acceleration argument to a higher degree of empirical scrutiny is to deploy the sociological study of sleep as a key indicator. Such an insight builds upon research in the nascent sociological study of sleep, which has established how some developments in people’s sleep lives may signal broader shifts in the socio-temporal order (e.g. Baxter and Kroll-Smith, 2005; Melbin, 1987; Williams, 2005, 2011). I contribute to this emerging body of literature by emphasizing the importance of being sufficiently precise and nuanced when sleep research is deployed as a measure of the social acceleration phenomenon. I appeal to Hartmut Rosa’s theory of social acceleration (2003) as a way to advance a more explicit, multi-faceted and open-ended understanding of the social acceleration concept. Rosa’s theory is unique because it identifies three distinct facets of the concept that can be empirically grounded. By undertaking an exploratory study of what evidence regarding people’s sleep lives can be used to test these three facets, I find that this yields a more discontinuous and context-driven view of social acceleration.
An Evaluation of Mandatory Polygraph Testing for Sexual Offenders in the United Kingdom
Authors: Gannon Theresa A. , Wood Jane L. , Pina Afroditi , Tyler Nichola , Barnoux Magali F. L. , Vasquez Eduardo A.
Published: May 2013

This research examined whether a government-initiated pilot project of mandatory polygraph testing would increase the disclosures made by community-supervised sexual offenders in the United Kingdom. The Offender Managers of 332 pilot polygraph sexual offenders and 303 sexual offenders who were receiving usual community supervision were telephoned quarterly, over a 21-month period, to collect information about numbers of clinically relevant disclosures, the seriousness of disclosures made, and actions taken as a result of disclosures. Perceptions of polygraph usefulness were also collected. Offender Managers in the pilot polygraph group—compared to comparison Offender Managers—reported (a) a higher proportion of offenders making at least one disclosure (i.e., 76.5% vs. 51.2% respectively), and (b) that their offenders made more total disclosures overall ( Ms = 2.60 vs. 1.25 respectively). The majority of disclosures made by sexual offenders in the polygraph group were associated with the polygraph session itself. Polygraph Offender Managers reported being more likely to take an action that involved increasing supervision, informing a third party, informing Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA), changing supervision focus, or issuing a warning to the offender. However, the relative seriousness of disclosures did not appear to differ across groups. In terms of polygraph test results, one third of offenders (most notably those who were higher in risk) failed their first test with “Deception Indicated.” This outcome—received on a first test—was most likely to elicit clinically relevant disclosures. Offender Managers described the polygraph as aiding supervision strategies. This research and its associated caveats are discussed.
A study on drug–drug interactions through prescription analysis in a South Indian teaching hospital
Authors: Kulkarni Vijay , Bora Swathi Swaroopa , Sirisha Sapineni , Saji Mohammed , Sundaran Siraj
Published: May 2013

Objective:

The objective of this study was to assess the drug–drug interactions (DDIs) through prescription analysis among the inpatients of a South Indian teaching hospital.

Methods:

The study was a prospective observational prescription analysis conducted for a period of 6 months, from October 2010 to March 2011. The prescriptions having two or more drugs and where a DDI was suspected were selected by the physician in charge of the ward. The drugs in the prescription were then entered into the drug interaction checker software. The DDIs were classified based on the mechanism of interactions, severity of interactions, relation to the number of drugs prescribed, and disease conditions were also determined.

Results:

A total of 204 prescriptions were analyzed, of which 186 prescriptions had 856 DDIs. Most of the DDIs were pharmacokinetic drug interactions (42%) followed by unknown mechanisms (34%) and pharmacodynamic mechanisms (24%). The study findings showed that the prescriptions for cardiovascular with respiratory disease conditions had the greatest number of drug interactions on average. A severity assessment showed that majority of the DDIs were moderate (70%) followed by minor (28%). The study results showed that as the number of drugs increases in a prescription, the number of DDIs also increases. The interventions determined showed that dosage adjustment (12%) was to be followed in most of the DDIs.

Conclusion:

This study assists in understanding the factors associated with DDIs that can help in safe and effective use of drugs in the future.
Global methylation analysis identifies prognostically important epigenetically inactivated tumor suppressor genes in multiple myeloma
Authors: Kaiser Martin F. , Johnson David C. , Wu Ping , Walker Brian A. , Brioli Annamaria , Mirabella Fabio , Wardell Christopher P. , Melchor Lorenzo , Davies Faith E. , Morgan Gareth J.
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Epigenetic inactivation of tumor suppressor genes is associated with an unfavorable prognosis in multiple myeloma. Drug response and microenvironment interaction pathways are affected by epigenetic inactivation, linking tumor biology to prognosis.
Late-in-life surgery associated with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease: a methodological outline for evidence-based guidance
Authors: Cruz Mabel , Mahillo-Fernandez Ignacio , Rábano Alberto , Siden Åke , Calero Miguel , Laursen Henning , Mølbak Kåre , Almazán Javier , de Pedro-Cuesta Jesus
Published: May 2013

Background

There is increasing epidemiological evidence of etiological links between general surgery and sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD) with long incubation periods. The purpose of this study was to identify specific surgical procedures potentially associated with sCJD to be targeted for preventive presurgical-intervention guidance.

Results

We propose a three-step clinical guidance outline where surgical procedures associated with sCJD clinical onset – potentially more contaminant - are taken into account. Data on hospital discharges and surgical procedures were obtained from Danish and Swedish national in-patient hospital registries for 167 sCJD cases, onset 1987–2003, and for 835 matched and 2,224 unmatched population controls. Surgery was allocated to different life-time periods as previously reported, and frequencies were compared using logistic regression analysis. In the year preceding clinical onset, persons with sCJD underwent a statistically significant higher number of minor surgical interventions (OR (95% CI): 17.50 (3.64-84.24)), transluminal endoscopies (OR: 2.73 (1.01–7.37)) and gastrointestinal operations (OR: 3.51 (1.21–10.19)) compared to matched controls. Surgical discharges clustered towards clinical onset. These differences increased during the clinical period, with statistically significant higher frequencies for both endoscopies and minor surgery (OR: 13.91 (5.87-32.95), and for main surgical procedures (OR: 2.10 (1.00-4.39)), particularly gastrointestinal surgery (OR: 6.00 (1.83-19.66)), and surgery contacting skeletal muscle. Comparisons with unmatched controls yielded similar results for neurosurgery in the clinical period (OR: 19.40 (2.22-168.34)).

Conclusions

These results suggest that some types of surgical procedures are associated with sCJD, after clinical onset or particularly just before onset. Selective planning of such surgery to minimize instrument/device contamination or quarantining might be feasible. Conditional to progress in sCJD etiological research, results are relevant for guidance development.
Severe Hyperaldosteronism in Neonatal Task3 Potassium Channel Knockout Mice Is Associated With Activation of the Intraadrenal Renin-Angiotensin System
Authors: Bandulik Sascha , Tauber Philipp , Penton David , Schweda Frank , Tegtmeier Ines , Sterner Christina , Lalli Enzo , Lesage Florian , Hartmann Michaela , Barhanin Jacques , Warth Richard
Published: May 2013

Task3 K+ channels are highly expressed in the adrenal cortex and contribute to the angiotensin II and K+ sensitivity of aldosterone-producing glomerulosa cells. Adult Task3−/− mice display a partially autonomous aldosterone secretion, subclinical hyperaldosteronism, and salt-sensitive hypertension. Here, we investigated the age dependence of the adrenal phenotype of Task3−/− mice. Compared with adults, newborn Task3−/− mice displayed a severe adrenal phenotype with strongly increased plasma levels of aldosterone, corticosterone, and progesterone. This adrenocortical dysfunction was accompanied by a modified gene expression profile. The most strongly up-regulated gene was the protease renin. Real-time PCR corroborated the strong increase in adrenal renin expression, and immunofluorescence revealed renin-expressing cells in the zona fasciculata. Together with additional factors, activation of the local adrenal renin system is probably causative for the severely disturbed steroid hormone secretion of neonatal Task3−/− mice. The changes in gene expression patterns of neonatal Task3−/− mice could also be relevant for other forms of hyperaldosteronism.
Novel Methods for the Guidance and Monitoring of Single Cells and Simple Networks in Culture
Authors: Dow J. A. T. , Clark P. , Connolly P. , Curtis A. S. G. , Wilkinson C. D. W.
Published: May 2013

The effects of the topography, adhesiveness and chemistry of surfaces in modulating the behaviour of cells in vivo and in vitro have been extensively researched. However, few natural systems are simple enough to allow straightforward conclusions to be drawn, as many different cues are likely to be present at one time. Microelectronic fabrication, normally employed in making integrated circuits, can produce substrates patterned on scales highly relevant to studies of cell behaviour.

In this paper, we describe progress in fabricating simple artificial substrata both at the micrometre and sub-micrometre scales. The former can be considered as models for contact guidance along other cells or axonal processes: the latter, models for guidance along aligned collagen matrices. We have systematically studied the reactions of different cell types to simple cues (steps and grooves). Additionally, it may be possible to produce fine-resolution patterns with differential adhesiveness, or with other cell-specific surface-chemical properties, such as the differential deposition of proteins, e.g. cell adhesion molecules. We also describe early results in using topographic and other cues to guide cells onto patterned metal electrodes, forming simple electrically active networks of controlled design, from which long-term recordings can conveniently be made.
The bending of sliding microtubules imaged by confocal light microscopy and negative stain electron microscopy
Authors: Amos L. A. , Amos W. B.
Published: May 2013

Individual microtubules can be visualised by confocal microscopy in reflection mode; when associated with a glass surface, they show up as black lines against the bright reflection from the surface. The high contrast imaging allows details of the behaviour of sliding microtubules to be studied easily.

Taxol-stabilised microtubules sliding over kinesin- coated surfaces are normally straight, but can bend into tight loops if the leading end sticks to the surface. Some remain curved after release and move in circles. In such cases, the microtubule lattice must have become stably deformed. Electron microscopy of microtubules fixed during sliding shows no gross rearrangement of the subunit lattice and indicates that microtubule bending is mainly achieved by increased twisting of the longitudinal protofilaments around the microtubule.
Exploring nuclear pore complex structure and function in molecular detail
Authors: Panté Nelly , Aebi Ueli
Published: May 2013

Bidirectional molecular trafficking between the nucleus and the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells occurs through the nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), ∼120 megadalton supramolecular assemblies embedded in the double-membraned nuclear envelope. Significant progress has been made in elucidating the three-dimensional (3-D) architecture of the NPC, and in identifying, characterizing, and cloning and sequencing NPC proteins. Several of these have now been localized within the 3-D structure of the NPC. Nevertheless, there still remain major questions relating to the conformation, molecular composition and functional roles of distinct NPC components. Here we review recent structural studies from our group and others which have contributed toward dissecting the molecular architecture of the NPC. We also present our results on the molecular characterization of some NPC components, and on the elucidation of their functional roles in mediated nucleocytoplasmic transport.
Judge Ignacio Sepúlveda
Authors: Gray Paul Bryan
Published: May 2013

Ignacio Sepúlveda, an East Coast-educated scion of one of the leading Californio families of the ranchero class, successfully negotiated the transition of California to US statehood by associating with Southern Democrats to become a judge and state assemblyman. Later in life he relocated to Mexico City where he made a career of steering American capital to investment opportunities in the Mexico of Porfirio Díaz. His story is doubly significant as an account of the possibilities available to young Californios prior to 1880 and as perhaps the first study of how the influence brokering for American investors was conducted in the Porfiriato.
Comparative Effectiveness Research in Oncology
Authors: Lyman Gary H.
Published: May 2013

Learning Objectives

Describe methods for assessing comparative effectiveness in the absence of data from high-quality randomized, controlled trials. Outline the criteria that should be applied to systematic reviews in order to use them for comparative effectiveness research.
Rapid Rise in Hypertension and Nephropathy in Youth With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors:   TODAY Study Group
Published: May 2013

OBJECTIVE

Among adolescents with type 2 diabetes, there is limited information regarding incidence and progression of hypertension and microalbuminuria. Hypertension and microalbuminuria assessments made during the TODAY clinical trial were analyzed for effect of treatment, glycemic control, sex, and race/ethnicity.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A cohort of 699 adolescents, 10–17 years of age, <2 years duration of type 2 diabetes, BMI ≥85%, HbA1c ≤8% on metformin therapy, controlled blood pressure (BP), and calculated creatinine clearance >70 mL/min, were randomized to metformin, metformin plus rosiglitazone, or metformin plus intensive lifestyle intervention. Primary study outcome was loss of glycemic control for 6 months or sustained metabolic decompensation requiring insulin. Hypertension and microalbuminuria were managed aggressively with standardized therapy to maintain BP <130/80 or <95th percentile for age, sex, and height and microalbuminuria <30 μg/mg.

RESULTS

In this cohort, 319 (45.6%) reached primary study outcome, and 11.6% were hypertensive at baseline and 33.8% by end of study (average follow-up 3.9 years). Male sex and higher BMI significantly increased the risk for hypertension. Microalbuminuria was found in 6.3% at baseline and rose to 16.6% by end of study. Diagnosis of microalbuminuria was not significantly different between treatment arms, sex, or race/ethnicity, but higher levels of HbA1c were significantly related to risk of developing microalbuminuria.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of hypertension and microalbuminuria increased over time among adolescents with type 2 diabetes regardless of diabetes treatment. The greatest risk for hypertension was male sex and higher BMI. The risk for microalbuminuria was more closely related to glycemic control.
Innovative Strategy for MicroRNA Delivery in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells via Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Schade Anna , Delyagina Evgenya , Scharfenberg Dorothee , Skorska Anna , Lux Cornelia , David Robert , Steinhoff Gustav
Published: May 2013

Bone marrow derived human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) show promising potential in regeneration of defective tissue. Recently, gene silencing strategies using microRNAs (miR) emerged with the aim to expand the therapeutic potential of hMSCs. However, researchers are still searching for effective miR delivery methods for clinical applications. Therefore, we aimed to develop a technique to efficiently deliver miR into hMSCs with the help of a magnetic non-viral vector based on cationic polymer polyethylenimine (PEI) bound to iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNP). We tested different magnetic complex compositions and determined uptake efficiency and cytotoxicity by flow cytometry. Additionally, we monitored the release, processing and functionality of delivered miR-335 with confocal laser scanning microscopy, real-time PCR and live cell imaging, respectively. On this basis, we established parameters for construction of magnetic non-viral vectors with optimized uptake efficiency (~75%) and moderate cytotoxicity in hMSCs. Furthermore, we observed a better transfection performance of magnetic complexes compared to PEI complexes 72 h after transfection. We conclude that MNP-mediated transfection provides a long term effect beneficial for successful genetic modification of stem cells. Hence, our findings may become of great importance for future in vivo applications.
Hepatitis C Virus, Cholesterol and Lipoproteins — Impact for the Viral Life Cycle and Pathogenesis of Liver Disease
Authors: Felmlee Daniel , Hafirassou Mohamed , Lefevre Mathieu , Baumert Thomas , Schuster Catherine
Published: May 2013

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease, including chronic hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatitis C infection associates with lipid and lipoprotein metabolism disorders such as hepatic steatosis, hypobetalipoproteinemia, and hypocholesterolemia. Furthermore, virus production is dependent on hepatic very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) assembly, and circulating virions are physically associated with lipoproteins in complexes termed lipoviral particles. Evidence has indicated several functional roles for the formation of these complexes, including co-opting of lipoprotein receptors for attachment and entry, concealing epitopes to facilitate immune escape, and hijacking host factors for HCV maturation and secretion. Here, we review the evidence surrounding pathogenesis of the hepatitis C infection regarding lipoprotein engagement, cholesterol and triglyceride regulation, and the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects.
De la Composition
Authors: Weil Raymond
Published: May 2013

Quelques exemples tirés de prosateurs grecs célèbres indiquent que nous aurions tort si nous attendions d'un prosateur de l'Antiquité grecque les mêmes principes que d'un Moderne ; il reste évidemment à voir sous ce rapport les théoriciens anciens et les poètes.
La stèle des Kyténiens à Xanthos de Lycie
Authors: Bousquet Jean
Published: May 2013

Au Létôon lycien, alors sous domination ptolémaïque, une stèle intacte de 110 lignes, datée de 206/5 av. J.-C, donne le texte d'un décret de Xanthos, suivi d'une lettre de l'assemblée des Étoliens, d'une lettre de leurs magistrats, et d'une lettre de la petite ville de Kyténion. Cette ville de la Doride du Parnasse (auj. Gravia) envoie chez ses «parents» doriens d'Asie Mineure une ambassade chargée de recueillir des fonds, afin de reconstruire ses murailles, abattues par un séisme. La ville fut ensuite incendiée par les troupes d'Antigone Doson, allant par là de Chalkis à Aigion avant la bataille de Sellasie (222). Le mythe, le conte d'allure historique, les généalogies et parentés humaines et divines sont invoqués par les Kyténiens pour appuyer leur requête. Les Xanthiens leur allouèrent 500 drachmes.
Le prologue et la parodos d'Iphigénie à Aulis
Authors: Irigoin Jean
Published: May 2013

La composition du début d'Iphigénie à Aulis, tragédie posthume d'Euripide, a donné lieu à des critiques portant aussi bien sur l'ordonnance interne des parties que sur leur degré d'authenticité. Une analyse métrique détaillée, faite d'après la récente édition de F. Jouan (1983), laisse apparaître entre les différents éléments du prologue (dialogues en dimètres anapestiques, monologue en trimètres iambiques) et de la parodos (triade initiale en mètres choriambiques, couples de strophes en mètres trochaïques) des correspondances numériques fondées sur le module 11. La tradition manuscrite a conservé fidèlement, malgré quelques accidents dans la responsion des strophes lyriques, cette architecture subtile qui paraît exclure tout remaniement ultérieur.
The Strict Strong Coloring Based Graph Distribution Algorithm
Authors: Guidoum Nousseiba , Bensouyad Meriem , Saïdouni Djamel-Eddine
Published: May 2013

State space explosion is a fundamental obstacle in formal verification of concurrent systems. As a solution for this problem, this paper deals with distributed state space. The authors’ solution is to introduce the coloring concept and dominance relation in graphs for finding the good distribution of given graphs. This basic solution is improved in two steps: the initialization and optimization step. The authors also report on a thorough experimental study to evaluate the performance of this new algorithm which depends strongly on the size, nature of the graphs, and the chosen number of workers. In addition, the quality of this algorithm is illustrated by comparison with the hash function (MD5) based algorithm. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first time when coloring concept is used to solve this problem.
Privacy and Security Concerns in Adopting Social Media for Personal Health Management
Authors: Mitra Sinjini , Padman Rema
Published: May 2013

The use of social media for health and wellness promotion is gathering significant momentum. Several early adopting health plans and provider organizations have begun to design and pilot social and mobile media platforms to empower members to enhance self-management of health and wellness goals. However, there is considerable concern among the general population regarding the privacy, security and reliability of health-related information obtained or collected through online and social media channels. In this teaching case of members of a large health plan in Pennsylvania, the authors examine these concerns in the context of several factors such as demographic, clinical conditions including the presence of chronic conditions, level of computer and social media usage, and frequency of engagement in specific online activities. Furthermore, they also examine the role of privacy, security and confidentiality concerns in members’ interest in adopting such technology platforms for health-related information and services, if offered by the health plan. Analysis of relevant data from more than 4,000 survey responses does not indicate significant differences among important segments of the member population. There is remarkable uniformity regarding privacy and security concerns expressed by members. The authors anticipate that these insights can assist health plans to develop and deploy services and tools for health and wellness management keeping in mind the relevant risk considerations.
A non-iterative linear retrieval for infrared high-resolution limb sounders
Authors: Millán L. , Dudhia A.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Currently, most of the high-spectral-resolution infrared limb sounders use subsets of the recorded spectra (microwindows) in their retrieval schemes to reduce the computing time of rerunning the radiative transfer model. A fast linear retrieval scheme is described which allows the whole spectral signature of the target molecule to be used. We determine that pressure and temperature retrievals can be treated linearly up to a 20% difference between the atmospheric state and the linearisation point for a 3% error margin and up to 10 K "difference" for a 3 K error margin near the stratopause and less than 0.5 K elsewhere. Assuming perfect pT knowledge, CH4 retrievals can be be treated linearly up to a 20% CH4 concentration "difference" for a 2% error margin. As an example, this technique is implemented for the Michelson Interferometer for Passive Atmospheric Sounding instrument, but it is applicable to any high-resolution limb sounder.
Improved analysis of all-sky meteor radar measurements of gravity wave variances and momentum fluxes
Authors: Andrioli V. F. , Fritts D. C. , Batista P. P. , Clemesha B. R.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The advantages of using a composite day analysis for all-sky interferometric meteor radars when measuring mean winds and tides are widely known. On the other hand, problems arise if this technique is applied to Hocking's (2005) gravity wave analysis for all-sky meteor radars. In this paper we describe how a simple change in the procedure makes it possible to use a composite day in Hocking's analysis. Also, we explain how a modified composite day can be constructed to test its ability to measure gravity wave momentum fluxes. Test results for specified mean, tidal, and gravity wave fields, including tidal amplitudes and gravity wave momentum fluxes varying strongly with altitude and/or time, suggest that the modified composite day allows characterization of monthly mean profiles of the gravity wave momentum fluxes, with good accuracy at least at the altitudes where the meteor counts are large (from 89 to 92.5 km). In the present work we also show that the variances measured with Hocking's method are often contaminated by the tidal fields and suggest a method of empirical correction derived from a simple simulation model. The results presented here greatly increase our confidence because they show that our technique is able to remove the tide-induced false variances from Hocking's analysis.
Water storage change estimation from in situ shrinkage measurements of clay soils
Authors: te Brake B. , van der Ploeg M. J. , de Rooij G. H.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The objective of this study is to assess the applicability of clay soil elevation change measurements to estimate soil water storage changes, using a simplified approach. We measured moisture contents in aggregates by EC-5 sensors, and in multiple aggregate and inter-aggregate spaces (bulk soil) by CS616 sensors. In a long dry period, the assumption of constant isotropic shrinkage proved invalid and a soil moisture dependant geometry factor was applied. The relative overestimation made by assuming constant isotropic shrinkage in the linear (basic) shrinkage phase was 26.4% (17.5 mm) for the actively shrinking layer between 0 and 60 cm. Aggregate-scale water storage and volume change revealed a linear relation for layers ≥ 30 cm depth. The range of basic shrinkage in the bulk soil was limited by delayed drying of deep soil layers, and maximum water loss in the structural shrinkage phase was 40% of total water loss in the 0–60 cm layer, and over 60% in deeper layers. In the dry period, fitted slopes of the ΔV–ΔW relationship ranged from 0.41 to 0.56 (EC-5) and 0.42 to 0.55 (CS616). Under a dynamic drying and wetting regime, slopes ranged from 0.21 to 0.38 (EC-5) and 0.22 to 0.36 (CS616). Alternating shrinkage and incomplete swelling resulted in limited volume change relative to water storage change. The slope of the ΔV–ΔW relationship depended on the drying regime, measurement scale and combined effect of different soil layers. Therefore, solely relying on surface level elevation changes to infer soil water storage changes will lead to large underestimations. Recent and future developments might provide a basis for application of shrinkage relations to field situations, but in situ observations will be required to do so.
Impacts of soil–aquifer heat and water fluxes on simulated global climate
Authors: Krakauer N. Y. , Puma M. J. , Cook B. I.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Climate models have traditionally only represented heat and water fluxes within relatively shallow soil layers, but there is increasing interest in the possible role of heat and water exchanges with the deeper subsurface. Here, we integrate an idealized 50 m deep aquifer into the land surface module of the GISS ModelE general circulation model to test the influence of aquifer–soil moisture and heat exchanges on climate variables. We evaluate the impact on the modeled climate of aquifer–soil heat and water fluxes separately, as well as in combination. The addition of the aquifer to ModelE has limited impact on annual-mean climate, with little change in global mean land temperature, precipitation, or evaporation. The seasonal amplitude of deep soil temperature is strongly damped by the soil–aquifer heat flux. This not only improves the model representation of permafrost area but propagates to the surface, resulting in an increase in the seasonal amplitude of surface air temperature of > 1 K in the Arctic. The soil–aquifer water and heat fluxes both slightly decrease interannual variability in soil moisture and in land-surface temperature, and decrease the soil moisture memory of the land surface on seasonal to annual timescales. The results of this experiment suggest that deepening the modeled land surface, compared to modeling only a shallower soil column with a no-flux bottom boundary condition, has limited impact on mean climate but does affect seasonality and interannual persistence.
Glad Passivity: Mary Penry of Lititz and the Making of Moravian Women
Authors: Gordon Scott Paul
Published: May 2013

Mary Penry was a diarist, accountant, and guide for Lititz's single sisters' house. Penry also left a vast correspondence, an “epistolary ministry” that emerged (like the activities of prominent Moravian women) from a confidence that grace regularly prompted her actions. Because recent writing on the dismantling of Moravian women's authority focuses on Zinzendorf and the church organization he instituted, it sees no source to sustain women's authority after his death. But this authority was imaginable in the first place only because the language of grace, of “power through passivity,” emboldened Moravian women to embrace a vision of themselves as active agents rather than the domesticated subjects their culture asked that they be. Mary Penry's letters record her efforts to eliminate self so that she could receive grace—and her confidence that, having received it, her actions were simultaneously “hers” and “another's.” Penry could assume authority, paradoxically, only by believing that it really was not “her” authority at all.