bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parental perspectives regarding primary‐care weight‐management strategies for school‐age children
Authors: Turer Christy Boling , Mehta Megha , Durante Richard , Wazni Fatima , Flores Glenn
Published: April 2014

To identify parental perspectives regarding weight‐management strategies for school‐age children, focus groups were conducted of parents of overweight and obese (body mass index ≥ 85th percentile) 6–12‐year‐old children recruited from primary‐care clinics. Questions focused on the role of the primary‐care provider, effective components of weight‐management strategies and feasibility of specific dietary strategies. Focus groups were recorded, transcribed and analysed using margin coding and grounded theory. Six focus groups were held. The mean age (in years) for parents was 32, and for children, eight; 44% of participants were Latino, 33%, African–American and 23%, white. Parents' recommendations on the primary‐care provider's role in weight management included monitoring weight, providing guidance regarding health risks and lifestyle changes, consistent follow‐up and using discretion during weight discussions. Weight‐management components identified as key included emphasising healthy lifestyles and enjoyment, small changes to routines and parental role modelling. Parents prefer guidance regarding healthy dietary practices rather than specific weight‐loss diets, but identified principles that could enhance the acceptability of these diets. For dietary guidance to be feasible, parents recommended easy‐to‐follow instructions and emphasising servings over counting calories. Effective weight‐management strategies identified by parents include primary‐care provider engagement in weight management, simple instructions regarding healthy lifestyle changes, parental involvement and deemphasising specific weight‐loss diets. These findings may prove useful in developing primary‐care weight‐management strategies for children that maximise parental acceptance.
The spore‐associated protein BclA1 affects the susceptibility of animals to colonization and infection by Clostridium difficile
Authors: Phetcharaburanin Jutarop , Hong Huynh A. , Colenutt Claire , Bianconi Irene , Sempere Lluis , Permpoonpattana Patima , Smith Karen , Dembek Marcin , Tan Sisareuth , Brisson Marie‐Clémence , Brisson Alain R. , Fairweather Neil F. , Cutting Simon M.
Published: April 2014

The BclA protein is a major component of the outermost layer of spores of a number of bacterial species and Clostridium difficile carries three bclA genes. Using insertional mutagenesis each gene was characterized and spores devoid of these proteins had surface aberrations, reduced hydrophobicity and germinated faster than wild‐type spores. Therefore the BclA proteins were likely major components of the spore surface and when absent impaired the protective shield effect of this outermost layer. Analysis of infection and colonization in mice and hamsters revealed that the 50% infectious dose (ID50) of spores was significantly higher (2‐logs) in the bclA1− mutant compared to the isogenic wild‐type control, but that levels of toxins (A and B) were indistinguishable from animals dosed with wild‐type spores. bclA1− spores germinated faster than wild‐type spores yet mice were less susceptible to infection suggesting that BclA1 must play a key role in the initial (i.e. pre‐spore germination) stages of infection. We also show that the ID50 was higher in mice infected with R20291, a ‘hypervirulent’ 027 strain, that carries a truncated BclA1 protein.
Sensilla coeloconica ringed by microtrichia in host‐seeking biting midges
Authors: URBANEK A. , PIOTROWICZ M. , SZADZIEWSKI R. , GI ŁKA W.
Published: April 2014

The distribution and morphology of antennal sensilla coeloconica in parasitic and predaceous biting midges were studied in females of Forcipomyia (feeding on the blood of frogs), Atrichopogon (feeding on haemolymph), Austroconops, Culicoides (feeding on the blood of birds and mammals) and Brachypogon (feeding on haemolymph and dissolved tissues of insects) (all: Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). A Lower Cretaceous female of Archiculicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) from Lebanese amber, which fed on the blood of unknown vertebrates, was also examined. In sensilla coeloconica ringed by microtrichia, the peg is grooved longitudinally and protrudes distinctly from the pit. We suggest that the microtrichia encircling the protruding peg form a structure resembling a picket fence in order to maintain a higher level of humidity, which facilitates the capture and transport of odour molecules through the channels in the peg wall. Sensilla coeloconica ringed by microtrichia function as very effective chemoreceptors in host‐ and prey‐seeking activity. During the evolution of Ceratopogonidae, sensilla coeloconica with a fence of microtrichia have evolved twice in groups feeding on the blood of vertebrates (i.e. in the basal lineage: Lower Cretaceous or earlier) and in the subgenus Lasiohelea of Forcipomyia (Palaeogene). Sensilla coeloconica ringed by microtrichia are described for the first time in the relict genus Austroconops.
Diminished vagal tone is a predictive biomarker of necrotizing enterocolitis‐risk in preterm infants
Authors: Doheny K. K. , Palmer C. , Browning K. N. , Jairath P. , Liao D. , He F. , Travagli R. A.
Published: April 2014

Background

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an acute neonatal inflammatory disease which may lead to intestinal necrosis, multisystem failure, and death. Currently, NEC is diagnosed by a combination of laboratory and radiographic tests conducted a posteriori i.e., when NEC is already clinically significant. Given the acute onset and rapid progression of NEC, a non‐invasive biomarker that allows early detection of patients at risk is required as a matter of urgency. We evaluated whether the high frequency (HF) component of heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of vagal efferent tonic cholinergic activity may be used as a predictive biomarker for NEC‐risk before the onset of clinical disease.

Methods

In this prospective study, stable preterm (gestational age 28–35 weeks) infants had HRV power spectra analyzed from surface electrocardiogram waveforms taken at rest on day 5–8 of life. We used regression modeling to determine the utility of HF‐HRV in predicting NEC.

Key Results

HF‐HRV power was 21.5 ± 2.7 and 3.9 ± 0.81 ms2 in infants that remained healthy and those that later developed stage 2+ NEC, respectively (p < 0.001). Nine of 70 enrolled infants developed NEC. The ROC discriminated a HF‐HRV value of 4.68 ms2 predictive for developing NEC with a sensitivity and specificity of 89% and 87%, and positive and negative predictive value of 50% and 98%, respectively. With predictive regression modeling, the risk (odds ratio) of developing NEC was 10 per every one SD decrease in HF‐HRV.

Conclusions & Inferences

Our preliminary data indicate that HF‐HRV may serve as a potential, non‐invasive predictive biomarker of NEC‐risk in NICU infants.
Revolution in Anglo‐Yiddish Poetry: Morris Winchevsky's Strategies to Revolutionise the Jewish Immigrants to Britain, 1884–1894
Authors: Lachs Vivi
Published: April 2014

Yiddish‐speaking Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe from the mid‐1880s entered a crowded East End of London. Their main source of work was the sweated industries, where seasonal work led many to be living on the edge of subsistence. Attempts to organise and trade unionise Jewish workers was led largely by socialists whose main aim was overturning capitalism and revolution across the Yiddish‐speaking world. Supporting local campaigns to improve conditions and pay was a strategy towards that end. This article will explore how Morris Winchevsky's socialist poetry imparts ideas of revolution to poverty‐stricken and resistant immigrants. Some poems describe poverty and question its causes, others demand the workers rise up and overthrow the current order. Yet the poems have a cultural capital that goes beyond socialist polemics. Almost entirely unknown, with only a handful translated, the poems throw light on socialists' strategies for generating activism.
Constructing Chinese Identity in Post‐colonial Hong Kong: A Discursive Analysis of the Official Nation‐Building Project
Authors: Tse Thomas Kwan‐choi
Published: April 2014

After the handover of sovereignty from the United Kingdom to China in 1997, the post‐colonial government in Hong Kong initiated a nation‐building project aimed at boosting nationalism and patriotism. Drawing on documentary analysis, this article analyses how the dominant bloc subtly manipulates a Chinese identity rooted in local traditions through its national education policy, and how it seeks to foster hegemony via several discursive strategies including normalization, naturalization, homogenization, utilitarianization, glorification, moralization, and eclecticism. This article also draws attention to the alternative discourses by the civil society in opposition to the hegemony project.
A Sacred Bastion? A Nation in Itself? An Economic Partner of Rising China? Three Waves of Nation‐Building in Taiwan after 1949
Authors: Yeh Hsin‐Yi
Published: April 2014

Agreeing with the constructivist approach to nationalism, this article argues that the prevailing ambiguous attitude towards nationality among people in Taiwan is a reflection of different waves of nation‐building − each led people to imagine a distinct nation − and the mixture of these waves during past decades. Whereas all nations are artificially imagined, ‘the style in which they are imagined’ should be examined. This article aims to distinguish three waves of nation‐building in Taiwan after 1949 and address the issue of superimposition of contradictory elements in producing nation‐ness to highlight that nation‐building is a path‐dependent process. Three suppositions can be derived from the investigation of Taiwan's case. First, people are not empty vessels and the new national imagination has to compete and coexist with vestiges and crystallizations of former imaginations. Second, the content of a single nation‐building programme may be reinvented according to the external and/or internal environment. Third, depending on the social atmosphere, official nationalism may adopt a different method to instil the national imagination.
Guidelines for the diagnosis and antimicrobial therapy of canine superficial bacterial folliculitis (AntimicrobialGuidelinesWorkingGroup of theInternationalSociety forCompanionAnimalInfectiousDiseases)
Authors: Hillier Andrew , Lloyd David H. , Weese J. Scott , Blondeau Joseph M. , Boothe Dawn , Breitschwerdt Edward , Guardabassi Luca , Papich Mark G. , Rankin Shelley , Turnidge John D. , Sykes Jane E.
Published: April 2014

Background

Superficial bacterial folliculitis (SBF) is usually caused byStaphylococcus pseudintermediusand routinely treated with systemic antimicrobial agents. Infection is a consequence of reduced immunity associated with alterations of the skin barrier and underlying diseases that may be difficult to diagnose and resolve; thus,SBFis frequently recurrent and repeated treatment is necessary. The emergence of multiresistant bacteria, particularly meticillin‐resistantS. pseudintermedius(MRSP), has focused attention on the need for optimal management ofSBF.

Objectives

Provision of an internationally available resource guiding practitioners in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention ofSBF.

Development of the guidelines

The guidelines were developed by theAntimicrobialGuidelinesWorkingGroup of theInternationalSociety forCompanionAnimalInfectiousDiseases, with consultation and advice from diplomates of theAmerican andEuropeanColleges ofVeterinaryDermatology. They describe optimal methods for the diagnosis and management ofSBF, including isolation of the causative organism, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, selection of antimicrobial drugs, therapeutic protocols and advice on infection control. Guidance is given for topical and systemic modalities, including approaches suitable forMRSP. Systemic drugs are classified in three tiers. Tier one drugs are used when diagnosis is clear cut and risk factors for antimicrobial drug resistance are not present. Otherwise, tier two drugs are used and antimicrobial susceptibility tests are mandatory. Tier three includes drugs reserved for highly resistant infections; their use is strongly discouraged and, when necessary, they should be used in consultation with specialists.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Optimal management ofSBFwill improve antimicrobial use and reduce selection ofMRSPand other multidrug‐resistant bacteria affecting animal and human health.
Developmental Characteristics in Cursive and Printed Letter-Writing for School-Age Children
Authors: Bo Jin , Barta Julia , Ferencak Hilary , Comstock Sara , Riley Vanessa , Krueger Joni
Published: April 2014

The current study evaluated the developmental characteristics of printed and cursive letter writing in early school-age children. We predicted fewer age-related changes on spatial and temporal measures in cursive letter writing due to lower explicit timing demands compared with printed letter writing. Thirty children wrote the letters e and l in cursive and printed forms repetitively. For printed letters, significant age effects were seen in temporal consistency, whereas cursive letters showed age-related improvement in spatial consistency. Children tended to have higher consistency for printed handwriting than they did for cursive writing. Because of an overall advantage for printed handwriting, the explicit timing hypothesis was not fully supported. We argue that experiential factors influence the development of handwriting.
Physical Education Lessons and Physical Activity Intentions Within Spanish Secondary Schools: A Self-Determination Perspective
Authors: Sanchez-Oliva David , Sanchez-Miguel Pedro Antonio , Leo Francisco Miguel , Kinnafick Florence-Emilie , García-Calvo Tomás
Published: April 2014

Grounded in Self-Determination Theory, the purpose of this study was to analyze how motivational processes within Physical Education classes can predict intention to participate in sport or physical activity outside of the school curriculum. Participants included 1,692 Spanish students aged 12–16 years (M = 13.34; SD = .76) who participated in Physical Education lessons at 32 secondary schools. Structural equation modeling was used for analysis, and showed that perception of basic psychological need (BPN) support from teachers predicted autonomous and controlled motivation through BPN satisfaction. Furthermore, autonomous motivation positively predicted enjoyment, perceived importance of Physical Education, and intention to participate in sport or physical activity outside of school. Controlled motivation negatively predicted enjoyment, and amotivation positively predicted boredom. Finally, enjoyment and perceived importance of Physical Education positively predicted intention to participate in sport or physical activity outside of what was required in school. Results emphasize the importance of school based Physical Education to promote sport and physical activity participation among adolescents.
Lack of Genetic Diversity in Newly Sequenced Porcine Circovirus Type 1 Strains Isolated 20 Years Apart
Authors: Tombácz Kata , Patterson Robert , Grierson Sylvia S. , Werling Dirk
Published: April 2014

The complete genome sequences of a porcine circovirus type 1 (PCV1) strain isolated in 1990 and one isolated in 2011 were obtained and compared to the sequences of other available PCV1 isolates. Phylogenetic analyses revealed very low genetic diversity among these viruses, indicating an advanced state in the evolution of PCV1.
Complete Genome Sequence of Strain SDCV/USA/Illinois121/2014, a Porcine Deltacoronavirus from the United States
Authors: Marthaler Douglas , Jiang Yin , Collins Jim , Rossow Kurt
Published: April 2014

To investigate the causative agent of swine diarrhea, next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed on a porcine fecal sample. The NGS reads were assembled, which generated a complete swine
Deltacoronavirus
genome sequence, that of strain SDCV/USA/Illinois121/2014.
Genome Sequences of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus O/ME-SA/Ind-2001 Lineage from Outbreaks in Libya, Saudi Arabia, and Bhutan during 2013
Authors: Valdazo-González Begoña , Knowles Nick J. , King Donald P.
Published: April 2014

The complete genomes of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) viruses recovered in Libya and Saudi Arabia in 2013 are described here. These viruses belong to an FMD virus lineage (Ind-2001, topotype Middle East-South Asia, serotype O) which is normally endemic in the Indian subcontinent. A contemporary virus sequence from Bhutan is also reported here.
Draft Genome Sequence of Campylobacter ureolyticus Strain CIT007, the First Whole-Genome Sequence of a Clinical Isolate
Authors: Lucid Alan , Bullman Susan , Koziel Monika , Corcoran Gerard D. , Cotter Paul D. , Sleator Roy D. , Lucey Brigid
Published: April 2014

Herein, we present the draft genome sequence of
Campylobacter ureolyticus
. Strain CIT007 was isolated from a stool sample from an elderly female presenting with diarrheal illness and end-stage chronic renal disease.
Genome Sequence of Bacterial Interference Strain Staphylococcus aureus 502A
Authors: Parker Dane , Narechania Apurva , Sebra Robert , Deikus Gintaras , LaRussa Samuel , Ryan Chanelle , Smith Hannah , Prince Alice , Mathema Barun , Ratner Adam J. , Kreiswirth Barry , Planet Paul J.
Published: April 2014

Staphylococcus aureus
502A was a strain used in bacterial interference programs during the 1960s and early 1970s. Infants were deliberately colonized with 502A with the goal of preventing colonization with more invasive strains. We present the completed genome sequence of this organism.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Phodopus sungorus
Papillomavirus Type 1 (PsPV1), a Novel Member of the
Pipapillomavirus
Genus, Isolated from a Siberian Hamster
Authors: Kocjan Boštjan J. , Hošnjak Lea , Račnik Joško , Zadravec Marko , Poljak Mario
Published: April 2014

We report the complete genomic sequence of
Phodopus sungorus
papillomavirus type 1 (PsPV1), isolated from an anogenital lesion of a Siberian hamster. PsPV1 is taxonomically classified in the genus
Pipapillomavirus
and is most closely related to
Mesocricetus auratus
papillomavirus 1 (MaPV1).
Histoplasmosis mimicking primary lung neoplasm
Authors: Kooblall Minesh , Keane Barry , Murray Grainne , Moloney Eddie
Published: April 2014

A 70-year-old man, ex-smoker with a 3-pack-year smoking history, presented with a 5-week history of persistent cough. There were no positive findings on clinical examination. The patient's chest X-ray showed a nodular density in the right lung, initially thought to be malignant. After an extensive workup which included CT-guided lung biopsies, bronchoscopies, positron emission tomography scanning, among many other investigations, discussion at the respiratory multidisciplinary team meeting, and a right upper lobe lung resection, a diagnosis of histoplasmosis was performed.
A systematic review of concussion in rugby league
Authors: Gardner Andrew , Iverson Grant L , Levi Christopher R , Schofield Peter W , Kay-Lambkin Frances , Kohler Ryan M N , Stanwell Peter
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Concussion remains one of the inherent risks of participation in rugby league. While other injuries incurred by rugby league players have been well studied, less focus and attention has been directed towards concussion.

Review method

The current review examined all articles published in English from 1900 up to June 2013 pertaining to concussion in rugby league players.

Data sources

Publications were retrieved via six databases using the key search terms: rugby league, league, football; in combination with injury terms: athletic injuries, concussion, sports concussion, sports-related concussion, brain concussion, brain injury, brain injuries, mild traumatic brain injury, mTBI, traumatic brain injury, TBI, craniocerebral trauma, head injury and brain damage. Observational, cohort, correlational, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies were all included.

Results

199 rugby league injury publications were identified. 39 (20%) were related in some way to concussion. Of the 39 identified articles, 6 (15%) had the main aim of evaluating concussion, while the other 33 reported on concussion incidence as part of overall injury data analyses. Rugby league concussion incidence rates vary widely from 0.0 to 40.0/1000 playing hours, depending on the definition of injury (time loss vs no time loss). The incidence rates vary across match play versus training session, seasons (winter vs summer) and playing position (forwards vs backs). The ball carrier has been found to be at greater risk for injury than tacklers. Concussion accounts for 29% of all injuries associated with illegal play, but only 9% of injuries sustained in legal play.

Conclusions

In comparison with other collision sports, research evaluating concussion in rugby league is limited. With such limited published rugby league data, there are many aspects of concussion that require attention, and future research may be directed towards these unanswered questions.
Reference intervals for coagulation times using two point‐of‐care analysers in healthy pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Mentré V. , Bulliot C. , Linsart A. , Ronot P.
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study was to establish reference intervals for prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial prothrombin time (aPTT) in healthy rabbits using two different point‐of‐care analysers (Idexx Coag DX and MS Quick Vet Coag Combo). These intervals would be useful in the diagnosis of coagulopathies and in the determination of coagulation status in critical patients. We are unaware of reports of coagulation values in pet rabbits. Blood samples were analysed from 81 clinically healthy pet rabbits under three years of age (49 females and 32 males). The reference intervals were as follows (non‐parametric method for the MS Quick Vet Coag Combo and Box‐Cox Robust method for the Idexx Coag DX, p<0.05 limit for statistical significance): PT (MS Quick Vet Coag Combo)=N=33, 17.2–28.5; PT (Idexx Coag DX)=N=48, 10.0–14.8, aPTT (MS Quick Vet Coag Combo)=N=33, 103.2–159.2 and aPTT (Idexx Coag DX)=N=48, 104.2–159.1. PT was significantly longer using the MS Quick Vet Coag Combo. aPTT was significantly shorter with the MS Quick Vet Coag Combo. On each type of analyser, there was no significant difference between sexes and blood sampling sites. A significant difference was present for the use or not of anaesthesia with the MS Quick Vet Coag Combo analyser. This study on healthy pet rabbits will be useful in point‐of‐care diagnosis of coagulopathies.
Numerical investigation of the influence of waste rock inclusions on tailings consolidation
Authors: L.Bolduc Frédérick , Aubertin Michel
Published: April 2014

The construction of waste rock inclusions (WRIs) in a tailings impoundment constitutes an alternative disposal technique that aims at improving the management of mine wastes. This technique consists in strategically placing the WRIs inside the impoundment, at the beginning and during its operation, to form compartments (or cells) in which the tailings are stored. Such inclusions can serve various purposes. In this paper, the authors investigate the effects of drainage from WRIs on tailings consolidation during filling of the impoundment, using experimental data from hard rock mines that provide the hydrogeological and geotechnical properties introduced in the numerical analyses. The model used for the simulations represents a cross section of a portion of a tailings impoundment containing a WRI. The numerical calculations results illustrate how the WRI affects the dissipation of the excess pore water pressures (PWPs) during filling of the impoundment, and help quantify the extent of the zone of influence of the inclusion. The results from the parametric analysis show that the saturated hydraulic conductivity ksat, compression index Cc, thickness, and deposition rate of the tailings are the main factors that affect the efficiency of WRIs to accelerate dissipation of excess PWPs. The discussion that follows recalls the main limitations of this investigation and addresses practical aspects related to the WRIs technique.
Y(4260) and Y(4360) as mixed hadrocharmonium
Authors: Li Xin , Voloshin M. B.
Published: April 2014

Recent BESIII data indicate a significant rate of the process e+e- →hc π+ π- at the Y(4260) and Y(4360) resonances, implying a substantial breaking of the heavy quark spin symmetry. We consider these resonances within the picture of hadrocharmonium, i.e. of (relatively) compact charmonium embedded in a light-quark mesonic excitation. We suggest that the resonances Y(4260) and Y(4360) are a mixture, with mixing close to maximal, of two states of hadrochamonium, one containing a spin-triplet [Formula: see text] pair and the other containing a spin-singlet heavy quark pair. We argue that this model is in a reasonable agreement with the available data and produces distinctive and verifiable predictions for the energy dependence of the production rate in e+e- annihilation of the final states J/ψππ, ψ′ππ and hc ππ, including the pattern of interference between the two resonances.
Hawking radiation as irreversible tunneling through self-interaction
Authors: Wen Wen-Yu
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we study the self-force in the Parikh–Wilczek tunneling model of Hawking radiation for Reissner–Nordström (RN) black holes. We conclude that the repulsive self-force speeds up the emission and the radiation becomes an irreversible process. We also find an upper bound of charge–mass ratio for emitted particles.
Dissipative planar gravitational collapse in f(G) gravity
Authors: Sharif M. , Ikram Ayesha
Published: April 2014

This paper is devoted to analyze the dynamics of plane symmetric gravitational collapse as well as energy density inhomogeneity in f(G) gravity. The field equations are constructed for dissipative isotropic source and Darmois junction conditions are used to discuss the process of collapse. We use Misner–Sharp mechanism to develop dynamical equation and couple it with transport equation to explore the impact of gravitational force on the collapsing rate. For constant f(G) model, we conclude that the rate of collapse slows down. Finally, we discuss the relationship between the Weyl tensor and physical quantities.
An Exploratory Study on the Development and Application of Integrated Information Technology Management Model
Authors: Beşli Emre , Öner M. Atilla
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study is to explore how Turkish companies are implementing information technology (IT) governance to achieve desirable behavior in the use of IT. A literature-based integrated IT management model (IITMM) is developed. Research objectives further include a high-level assessment of organizations' perceived level of IT governance capabilities by applying the proposed IITMM.

The IITMM discusses the IT governance literature in three management levels (i.e. normative, strategic and operational) and in three management dimensions (i.e. goals, structures and behaviors). The model was applied to five companies from Turkish automotive supply industry. Based on the IITMM, a questionnaire was developed to provide a structured interview pattern for face-to-face interviews. An interview with a business or IT executive was conducted in each company.

Results of the study revealed that except strategic goals and operational goals, different IT governance capability patterns exist for each company. Although the strategic goals and operational goals of IT governance are well understood by all participating companies, there is a room for improvement in structures and behaviors dimensions, especially in normative behaviors and strategic behaviors, as well as in strategic structures and operational structures. In addition, specific IT governance constructs are identified as drivers or inhibitors of effective IT governance implementation. Finally, some IT governance mechanisms, such as IT control framework, independent assurance, IT project management, committees and councils, IT principles and end-user involvement in determining IT strategies, were perceived as not effectively implemented. In summary, the results indicate that the IITMM provides a useful framework for determining the current IT governance capabilities of companies considering model's ability to recognize different levels of capabilities and to identify general and specific improvement opportunities.
Residuated Completely Simple Semigroups
Authors: Blyth T. S. , Pinto G. A.
Published: April 2014

We consider particular compatible orders on a given completely simple semigroup Sx=M(〈x〉; I ,Λ;P) where 〈x〉 is an ordered cyclic group with x > 1 and P11=x-1. Of these, only the lexicographic and bootlace orders yield residuated semigroups. With the lexicographic order, Sx is orthodox and has a biggest idempotent. With the bootlace order, the maximal idempotents of Sx are identified by specific locations in the sandwich matrix. In the orthodox case there is also a biggest idempotent and, for sandwich matrices of a given size, uniqueness up to ordered semigroup isomorphism is established.
On the Structure of G(H, k)
Authors: Deng Guixin , Yuan Pingzhi
Published: April 2014

Let H be an abelian group written additively and k be a positive integer. Let G(H, k) denote the digraph whose set of vertices is just H, and there exists a directed edge from a vertex a to a vertex b if b = ka. In this paper we give a necessary and sufficient condition for G(H, k1) ≃ G(H, k2). We also discuss the problem when G(H1, k) is isomorphic to G(H2, k) for a given k. Moreover, we give an explicit formula of G(H, k) when H is a p-group and gcd (p, k)=1.
RESOURCES AND FAILURE OF SMEs: ANOTHER LOOK
Authors: WILLIAMS DENSIL A.
Published: April 2014

Failure among SMEs has been attributed to size, age, location and being part of particular industries and not part of a network. These determinants, if used as surrogates for resources, suggest firms that lack such resources are more susceptible to failure. Using the resource-based view of the firm, this paper aims to do a post-mortem examination on the attributes of failed SMEs by analyzing data of more than 13,000 failed firms in the UK between 1999 and 2009. The findings reveal that failure is not merely a function of lack of resources. Although these findings shed new light on attributes of failed SMEs, there are still some limitations to the work that must be taken into consideration when applying the results.
Quasi-uniqueness of the set of "Gaussian prime plus one's"
Authors: Mehta Jay , Viswanadham G. K.
Published: April 2014

We recall the well-known notion of the set of uniqueness for arithmetical functions, introduced by Kátai and several other mathematicians like Indlekofer, Elliot and Hoffman, independently. We define its analogue for completely additive complex-valued functions over the set of non-zero Gaussian integers with some examples. We show that the set of "Gaussian prime plus one's" along with finitely many Gaussian primes of norm up to some constant K is a set of uniqueness with respect to Gaussian integers. This is analogous to Kátai's result in the case of positive integers [I. Kátai, On sets characterizing number theoretical functions, II, Acta Arith.16 (1968) 1–14].
Cyclic stretch disrupts apical junctional complexes in Caco-2 cell monolayers by a JNK-2-, c-Src-, and MLCK-dependent mechanism
Authors: Samak Geetha , Gangwar Ruchika , Crosby Lynn M. , Desai Leena P. , Wilhelm Kristina , Waters Christopher M. , Rao RadhaKrishna
Published: April 2014

The intestinal epithelium is subjected to various types of mechanical stress. In this study, we investigated the impact of cyclic stretch on tight junction and adherens junction integrity in Caco-2 cell monolayers. Stretch for 2 h resulted in a dramatic modulation of tight junction protein distribution from a linear organization into wavy structure. Continuation of cyclic stretch for 6 h led to redistribution of tight junction proteins from the intercellular junctions into the intracellular compartment. Disruption of tight junctions was associated with redistribution of adherens junction proteins, E-cadherin and β-catenin, and dissociation of the actin cytoskeleton at the actomyosin belt. Stretch activates JNK2, c-Src, and myosin light-chain kinase (MLCK). Inhibition of JNK, Src kinase or MLCK activity and knockdown of JNK2 or c-Src attenuated stretch-induced disruption of tight junctions, adherens junctions, and actin cytoskeleton. Paracellular permeability measured by a novel method demonstrated that cyclic stretch increases paracellular permeability by a JNK, Src kinase, and MLCK-dependent mechanism. Stretch increased tyrosine phosphorylation of occludin, ZO-1, E-cadherin, and β-catenin. Inhibition of JNK or Src kinase attenuated stretch-induced occludin phosphorylation. Immunofluorescence localization indicated that phospho-MLC colocalizes with the vesicle-like actin structure at the actomyosin belt in stretched cells. On the other hand, phospho-c-Src colocalizes with the actin at the apical region of cells. This study demonstrates that cyclic stretch disrupts tight junctions and adherens junctions by a JNK2, c-Src, and MLCK-dependent mechanism.
Enhancement of Mammographic Density Measures in Breast Cancer Risk Prediction
Authors: Cheddad Abbas , Czene Kamila , Shepherd John A. , Li Jingmei , Hall Per , Humphreys Keith
Published: April 2014

Background: Mammographic density is a strong risk factor for breast cancer.

Methods: We present a novel approach to enhance area density measures that takes advantage of the relative density of the pectoral muscle that appears in lateral mammographic views. We hypothesized that the grey scale of film mammograms is normalized to volume breast density but not pectoral density and thus pectoral density becomes an independent marker of volumetric density.

Results: From analysis of data from a Swedish case–control study (1,286 breast cancer cases and 1,391 control subjects, ages 50–75 years), we found that the mean intensity of the pectoral muscle (MIP) was highly associated with breast cancer risk [per SD: OR = 0.82; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.75–0.88; P = 6 × 10−7] after adjusting for a validated computer-assisted measure of percent density (PD), Cumulus. The area under curve (AUC) changed from 0.600 to 0.618 due to using PD with the pectoral muscle as reference instead of a standard area-based PD measure. We showed that MIP is associated with a genetic variant known to be associated with mammographic density and breast cancer risk, rs10995190, in a subset of women with genetic data. We further replicated the association between MIP and rs10995190 in an additional cohort of 2,655 breast cancer cases (combined P = 0.0002).

Conclusions: MIP is a marker of volumetric density that can be used to complement area PD in mammographic density studies and breast cancer risk assessment.

Impact: Inclusion of MIP in risk models should be considered for studies using area PD from analog films. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(7); 1314–23. ©2014 AACR.
Culture Dimensionality Influences the Resistance of Glioblastoma Stem-like Cells to Multikinase Inhibitors
Authors: Fernandez-Fuente Gonzalo , Mollinedo Pilar , Grande Lara , Vazquez-Barquero Alfonso , Fernandez-Luna Jose L.
Published: April 2014

Sunitinib, an inhibitor of kinases, including VEGFR and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), efficiently induces apoptosis in vitro in glioblastoma (GBM) cells, but does not show any survival benefit in vivo. One detrimental aspect of current in vitro models is that they do not take into account the contribution of extrinsic factors to the cellular response to drug treatment. Here, we studied the effects of substrate properties including elasticity, dimensionality, and matrix composition on the response of GBM stem-like cells (GSC) to chemotherapeutic agents. Thirty-seven cell cultures, including GSCs, parenchymal GBM cells, and GBM cell lines, were treated with nine antitumor compounds. Contrary to the expected chemoresistance of GSCs, these cells were more sensitive to most agents than GBM parenchymal cells or GBM cell lines cultured on flat (two-dimensional; 2D) plastic or collagen-coated surfaces. However, GSCs cultured in collagen-based three-dimensional (3D) environments increased their resistance, particularly to receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as sunitinib, BIBF1120, and imatinib. Differences in substrate rigidity or matrix components did not modify the response of GSCs to the inhibitors. Moreover, the MEK–ERK and PI3K–Akt pathways, but not PDGFR, mediate at least in part, this dimensionality-dependent chemoresistance. These findings suggest that survival of GSCs on 2D substrates, but not in a 3D environment, relies on kinases that can be efficiently targeted by sunitinib-like inhibitors. Overall, our data may help explain the lack of correlation between in vitro and in vivo models used to study the therapeutic potential of kinase inhibitors, and provide a rationale for developing more robust drug screening models. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(6); 1664–72. ©2014 AACR.
Coleusin Factor, a Novel Anticancer Diterpenoid, Inhibits Osteosarcoma Growth by Inducing Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2–Dependent Differentiation
Authors: Geng Shuo , Sun Bo , Lu Ran , Wang Jingze
Published: April 2014

Coleusin factor is a diterpenoid compound isolated from the root of a tropical plant, Coleus forskohlii. Although Coleusin factor has been reported to suppress proliferation of and induce apoptosis in several types of cancer cells, the effects of Coleusin factor on osteosarcoma and the underlying mechanism are still not fully understood. In this study, we show that Coleusin factor treatment potently inhibits the growth of osteosarcoma cells associated with G1 cell-cycle arrest. Interestingly, apoptosis and cell death are not induced. Instead, Coleusin factor causes osteosarcoma cells to exhibit typical properties of differentiated osteoblasts, including a morphologic alteration resembling osteoblasts, the expression of osteoblast differentiation markers, elevated alkaline phosphatase activity, and increased cellular mineralization. Coleusin factor treatment significantly increases the expression of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), a crucial osteogenic regulator, and runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), one of the key transcription factors of the BMP pathway. When BMP-2 signaling is blocked, Coleusin factor fails to inhibit cell proliferation and to induce osteoblast differentiation. Thus, upregulation of BMP-2 autocrine is critical for Coleusin factor to induce osteoblast differentiation and exert its anticancer effects on osteosarcoma. Importantly, administration of Coleusin factor inhibits the growth of osteosarcoma xenografted in nude mice without systemic or immunologic toxicity. Osteosarcoma is a highly aggressive cancer marked by the loss of normal differentiation. Coleusin factor represents a new type of BMP-2 inducer that restores differentiation in osteosarcoma cells. It may provide a promising therapeutic strategy against osteosarcoma with minimal side effects. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(6); 1431–41. ©2014 AACR.
In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization of Irreversible Mutant-Selective EGFR Inhibitors That Are Wild-Type Sparing
Authors: Tjin Tham Sjin Robert , Lee Kwangho , Walter Annette O. , Dubrovskiy Aleksandr , Sheets Michael , Martin Thia St. , Labenski Matthew T. , Zhu Zhendong , Tester Richland , Karp Russell , Medikonda Aravind , Chaturvedi Prasoon , Ren Yixuan , Haringsma Henry , Etter Jeff , Raponi Mitch , Simmons Andrew D. , Harding Thomas C. , Niu Deqiang , Nacht Mariana , Westlin William F. , Petter Russell C. , Allen Andrew , Singh Juswinder
Published: April 2014

Patients with non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) with activating mutations in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) initially respond well to the EGFR inhibitors erlotinib and gefitinib. However, all patients relapse because of the emergence of drug-resistant mutations, with T790M mutations accounting for approximately 60% of all resistance. Second-generation irreversible EGFR inhibitors are effective against T790M mutations in vitro, but retain affinity for wild-type EGFR (EGFRWT). These inhibitors have not provided compelling clinical benefit in T790M-positive patients, apparently because of dose-limiting toxicities associated with inhibition of EGFRWT. Thus, there is an urgent clinical need for therapeutics that overcome T790M drug resistance while sparing EGFRWT. Here, we describe a lead optimization program that led to the discovery of four potent irreversible 2,4-diaminopyrimidine compounds that are EGFR mutant (EGFRmut) selective and have been designed to have low affinity for EGFRWT. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies in H1975 tumor–bearing mice showed that exposure was dose proportional resulting in dose-dependent EGFR modulation. Importantly, evaluation of normal lung tissue from the same animals showed no inhibition of EGFRWT. Of all the compounds tested, compound 3 displayed the best efficacy in EGFRL858R/T790M-driven tumors. Compound 3, now renamed CO-1686, is currently in a phase I/II clinical trial in patients with EGFRmut-advanced NSCLC that have received prior EGFR-directed therapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(6); 1468–79. ©2014 AACR.
Epidemiological Trends in Stomach-Related Diseases
Authors: Milosavljević Tomica , Kostić-Milosavljević Mirjana , Krstić Miodrag , Sokić-Milutinović Aleksandra
Published: April 2014

Epidemiology is a study of disease variations by geography, population demographics and time. Temporal influences can manifest themselves as age effects, period effects, cohort effects, seasonal or monthly variations. The acquisition of Helicobacter pylori infection during early childhood and the ensuing risk for the future development of peptic ulcer or gastric cancer represents a typical example for a cohort effect in digestive diseases. The incidence and prevalence of uncomplicated peptic ulcer have decreased in recent years, largely because of the availability of treatment to eradicate H. pylori and the decreasing prevalence of H. pylori infection. Nowadays, gastric and duodenal ulcers tend to occur in older people, who were more likely to have been exposed to H. pylori in their childhood than recently born generations. The overall incidence of gastric cancers is declining; however, there has been a relative increase in the incidence of tumors of the esophagogastric junction and gastric cardia. Thus, by extrapolating the strong, stable and consistent mortality rate declines in recent decades, gastric cancer was projected to become increasingly less important as a cause of death in Europe in the next decades.
Gastroduodenal Mechanisms Underlying Functional Gastric Disorders
Authors: Carbone F. , Tack J.
Published: April 2014

Functional dyspepsia (FD), a disorder thought to originate from the gastroduodenum, is one of the most prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorders. In this review, we focused on gastroduodenal mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of FD. The roles of impaired gastric accommodation, delayed gastric emptying, hypersensitivity to gastric distention and to luminal agents, altered mucosal integrity, low-grade inflammation and psychological stress are reviewed. The underlying pathophysiology in FD is probably multifactorial, involving a combination of several of these factors, ultimately leading to symptom pattern and severity.
Gastric Barrier Function and Toxic Damage
Authors: Niv Yaron , Banić Marko
Published: April 2014

Gastric epithelium is the first significant barrier between the inner body and the potentially toxic material in the lumen. Nutrients affect gastric barrier continuously - alcohol, coffee, spices, salted food, etc. Also, very potent noxious agents are widely prescribed drugs - nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Helicobacter pylori is a well-known and well-investigated pathogen associated with serious gastric damage and gastric carcinoma. For its defense and maintenance of homeostasis and integrity, except acid secretion and maintenance of low luminal pH, gastric mucosa also has a specific structure, and its function is influenced by different control mechanisms. These include control of mucosal blood flow, control of mucus and bicarbonate secretion, constant cell renewal, and neuronal and hormonal control of defense mechanisms. These mechanisms are mediated by prostaglandins, nitric oxide, growth factors, heat-shock proteins and a neuropeptide called calcitonin gene-related protein. Adrenal glucocorticoids and the central nervous system also play an important role in regulating gastro-protection, especially hypothalamus and the dorsal vagal complex. Gastric mucosa is also an important component of the body's immune system and gut-associated lymphoid tissue which serves as the initiation site for antigen-specific humoral and cell-mediated immune response. Treatment options for gastric barrier dysfunction and damage due to aforementioned noxious agents are guided by the nature of damage and our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved. Currently, management is guideline driven and depends upon eradication treatment in patients infected with H. pylori and treatment or prevention of aspirin or NSAID ulceration.
Nutrients Affecting Gastric Barrier
Authors: Gasbarrini Antonio , D'Aversa Francesca , Di Rienzo Teresa , Franceschi Francesco
Published: April 2014

The gastric barrier could be considered an active tissue involved in many synthetic and metabolic functions, as the immunological defense, by activating mucosal immune system. Barrier integrity results from a balance between protective and aggressive endogenous factors and from their interaction with exogenous factors (steroidal or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, dietary nitrates, nitrites and/or NaCl, stress, Helicobacter pylori infection, food allergens and contaminants, metals, chemicals, radiation, smoking and alcohol intake). Nutrients represent the most important exogenous factors affecting gastric barrier because of the impact on people's everyday life. We report evidence from the literature about nutrients affecting gastric barrier and we investigate the possible effect that nutrients can play to determining or maintaining a gastric barrier dysfunction.
Clinical Management of Helicobacter pylori - The Japanese Perspective
Authors: Sugano Kentaro , Osawa Hiroyuki , Satoh Kiichi
Published: April 2014

Background: After the approval of health insurance coverage of eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori-positive peptic ulcer disease (PUD) in 2000, comprehensive coverage for H. pylori infection itself was implemented in 2013. Methods: We did a literature search using PubMed database on the management of H. pylori infection including indications, regimens, outcomes of current eradication therapies, trends of antibiotic resistance rates and proposed third-line rescue therapy in Japan. We also collected data on changes of eradication rates in our hospital by searching electronic medical records. Results: After implementation of insurance coverage of eradication therapy for PUD, dramatic reduction of the number patients with PUD as well as spending on ulcer drug was documented. According to the current regulation, proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-based triple therapy with 2 antibiotics, amoxicillin (AMPC) plus clarithromycin, for 7 days is approved as the first-line therapy. After failure of the first-line therapy, PPI plus AMPC and metronidazole is authorized as the second line, which maintains an excellent eradication rate of over 90% in Japan. When these two therapies fail, a sitafloxacin-based therapy seems to be most promising among many rescue regimens. Conclusion: Comprehensive public health insurance coverage of H. pylori infection will promote eradication in Japanese people infected with H. pylori, whose risk of developing gastric cancer has been shown to be high. It also provides us a unique opportunity to study whether the broader indications can accelerate the reduction of gastric cancer in Japan in the same way we witnessed the reduction of PUD.