bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Mortality Associated With Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Mitral Regurgitation Due to Flail Leaflets
Authors: Tribouilloy Christophe , Rusinaru Dan , Grigioni Francesco , Michelena Hector I. , Vanoverschelde Jean-Louis , Avierinos Jean-François , Barbieri Andrea , Pislaru Sorin V. , Russo Antonio , Pasquet Agnès , Théron Alexis , Szymanski Catherine , Lévy Franck , Enriquez-Sarano Maurice
Published: December 2013

Background—

Ejection fraction (EF) as a marker of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and the appropriate thresholds for diagnosing severe or mild/moderate LV dysfunction in mitral regurgitation are doubted and poorly followed in clinical practice. We aimed at assessing the role of EF in a large registry of organic mitral regurgitation to objectively establish thresholds for various degrees of LV dysfunction and to analyze whether mitral surgery remains beneficial in those subsets of patients.

Methods and Results—

We investigated the relation between EF and mortality in 1875 patients with mitral regurgitation due to flail leaflets in sinus rhythm (65±13 years; median EF, 66% [60%–71%]) enrolled in the Mitral Regurgitation International Database (MIDA) registry. With EF <60%, mortality after diagnosis increased precipitously under medical management (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.59 [1.19–2.12]) and during the entire follow-up (adjusted HR, 1.51 [1.22–1.87]). Severe LV dysfunction, if defined by EF <30%, would affect a minuscule number of patients (0.3%). Conversely, EF <45% was more frequent (2.9%) and was associated with considerable mortality under medical management (adjusted HR, 2.43 [1.50–3.95]) and during the entire follow-up (adjusted HR, 2.46 [1.67–3.61]). The group with EF of 45% to 60% represented a large proportion of patients (23%), exhibited rarely overt symptoms, and had higher mortality compared with EF >60%. Above 60%, no EF threshold further determined survival. The benefit of surgery remained considerable in the groups with EF <45% (adjusted HR, 0.28 [0.17–0.56]) and with EF of 45% to 60% (adjusted HR, 0.34 [0.21–0.64]).

Conclusions—

EF is valuable in defining presence and severity of LV dysfunction in organic mitral regurgitation. Patients with EF <45% have severe LV dysfunction, catastrophic outcome under medical management, and should not be denied surgery. Although there is no survival gain with EF ranges >60%, with EF dropping <60%, mortality increases precipitously and prompt surgical referral is critical to outcome.
Assessment of Myocardial Infarction and Postinfarction Scar Remodeling With an Elastin-Specific Magnetic Resonance Agent
Authors: Wildgruber Moritz , Bielicki Isabella , Aichler Michaela , Kosanke Katja , Feuchtinger Annette , Settles Marcus , Onthank David C. , Cesati Richard R. , Robinson Simon P. , Huber Armin M. , Rummeny Ernst J. , Walch Axel K. , Botnar René M.
Published: December 2013

Background—

To prospectively evaluate an elastin-specific MR contrast agent (ESMA) for in vivo targeting of elastic fibers in myocardial infarction (MI) and postinfarction scar remodeling.

Methods and Results—

MI was induced in C57BL/6J mice (n=40) by permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. MRI was performed at 7 and 21 days after MI. The merits of gadolinium-based ESMA (Gd-ESMA) were compared with gadopentetic acid (Gd-DTPA) for infarct size determination, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and enhancement kinetics. Specific binding in vivo was evaluated by blocking the molecular target using nonparamagnetic lanthanum-ESMA. In vivo imaging results were confirmed by postmortem triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining, elastica van Gieson staining, and Western blotting. Delayed enhancement MRI revealed prolonged enhancement of Gd-ESMA in the postischemic scar compared with Gd-DTPA. Infarct size measurements showed good agreement between Gd-ESMA and Gd-DTPA and were confirmed by ex vivo triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Preinjection of the blocking lanthanum-ESMA resulted in significantly lower CNR of Gd-ESMA at the infarct site (
P
=0.0019). Although no significant differences in CNR were observed between delayed enhancement imaging and Gd-DTPA between days 7 and 21 (1.8± versus 3.8;
P
=ns), Gd-ESMA showed markedly higher CNR on day 21 after MI (14.1 versus 4.9;
P
=0.0032), which correlated with increased synthesis of tropoelastin detected by Western blot analysis and histology. Higher CNR values for Gd-ESMA further correlated with improved ejection fraction of the mice on day 21 after MI.

Conclusions—

Gd-ESMA enables targeting of elastin within the infarct scar in a mouse model of MI. The imaging properties of Gd-ESMA allow quantification of intrascar elastin content in vivo and thereby provide potential for noninvasive characterization of postinfarction scar remodeling.
The effect of serum matrix and gender on cortisol measurement by commonly used immunoassays
Authors: Dodd AJ , Ducroq DH , Neale SM , Wise MP , Mitchem KL , Armston A , Barth JH , El-Farhan N , Rees DA , Evans C
Published: December 2013

Background

Considerable intermethod bias has been observed between cortisol immunoassays, with some also displaying a gender difference. Cortisol immunoassay performance is affected by serum matrix effects such as changes in steroid binding proteins and presence of interfering steroids which can be altered in various clinical settings. This study investigates cortisol immunoassay bias in pregnancy, renal failure and intensive care patients.

Methods

Serum remaining after routine analysis from pregnant patients, patients on the intensive care unit and patients with renal failure were obtained prior to disposal and used to create 20 anonymous samples per group. A male and female serum pool was prepared and spiked with cortisol. Samples were aliquoted and distributed to four hospitals for cortisol analysis by immunoassays from four different manufacturers. Cortisol was also measured by an isotope dilution-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method for comparison of assay bias.

Results

Differences in cortisol immunoassay bias were observed across the different patient groups. A negative bias compared to pooled serum samples was observed for pregnancy serum, whilst a more positive bias was seen in renal failure and intensive care patients. Variation in bias was greatest in renal failure with the Roche E170 the most affected and the Abbott architect the least (interquartile ranges 44% and 14%, respectively).

Conclusions

Cortisol immunoassay bias may be affected by gender and differences in serum matrix from patients with various clinical conditions. Users of cortisol assays should be aware of differing matrix effects on their assay and the relevance of these for the interpretation of clinical results.
Thriving in School
Authors: Perkins Daniel F. , Syvertsen Amy K. , Mincemoyer Claudia , Chilenski Sarah Meyer , Olson Jonathan R. , Berrena Elaine , Greenberg Mark , Spoth Richard
Published: December 2013

The present study uses an ecological systems perspective to examine how parental involvement in school-related activities in sixth grade influences early adolescents’ school bonding and academic achievement in eighth grade. Results of multilevel models of multiple data sources (i.e., adolescents, parents, and principals) suggested that parents’ involvement in school, as reported by the adolescent in sixth grade, was a significant predictor of school bonding and academic grades in eighth grade. Furthermore, parent reports of guidance, support, and involvement in school and non-school activities were unrelated to their adolescents’ grades and school bonding. Finally, schools’ efforts to engage parents did not consistently predict an association between parental involvement and adolescent outcomes.
A Democratic Case for Comparative Political Theory
Authors: Williams Melissa S. , Warren Mark E.
Published: December 2013

Globalization generates new structures of human interdependence and vulnerability while also posing challenges for models of democracy rooted in territorially bounded states. The diverse phenomena of globalization have stimulated two relatively new branches of political theory: theoretical accounts of the possibilities of democracy beyond the state; and comparative political theory, which aims at bringing non-Western political thought into conversation with the Western traditions that remain dominant in the political theory academy. This article links these two theoretical responses to globalization by showing how comparative political theory can contribute to the emergence of new global “publics” around the common fates that globalization forges across borders. Building on the pragmatist foundations of deliberative democratic theory, it makes a democratic case for comparative political theory as an architecture of translation that helps deliberative publics grow across boundaries of culture.
Emergence of Market Orders: Audience Interaction and Vanguard Influence
Authors: Koçak Özgecan , Hannan Michael T. , Hsu Greta
Published: December 2013

Research in the sociology of markets finds that shared meanings facilitate valuation and exchange by providing frameworks for perceiving and evaluating products and producers. Whereas studies of local sensemaking explain how meanings emerge in market interaction, and macro sociological accounts explain how meanings embodied in conventions, structures, and institutions are used in markets, understanding of the links between these two levels of analysis remains underdeveloped. In this paper, we propose a theory of how engagement and influence at the micro level gives rise to conventional labels and categories. Our theory proposes three processes through which audiences in markets come to share meanings: (i) through interaction among the audience; (ii) through influence of vanguard audience members on lay audiences; and (iii) through vanguard influence on authorities. We investigate some of the propositions on label use and category differentiation in 23 product categories on eBay.
Transnational caregiving in turbulent times: Polish migrants in Iceland and their elderly parents in Poland
Authors: Krzyżowski Łukasz , Mucha Janusz
Published: December 2013

The culturally determined necessity of the personal fulfilment of children’s obligations to care for older parents, including personal care and practical household help, is a long-lasting element of the Polish normative system, strengthened by the weakness of the institutional support system. In the situation of migration the obligations (and the methods by which they can be realized) are modified but do not disappear. What become necessary are new types of social practices. The aim of this article is to analyse intergenerational caregiving and family remittance flows in transnational social space. The authors use the case study of working-class migrants in Iceland and their elderly parents in Poland to explore how remittances function in the later life stage of the transnational family. The main thesis is that in transnational social space taking care of elderly parents (mostly by women) in person in Poland is transformed into remittances (mostly sent by migrating women). The authors also discuss the impact of the economic crisis on transnational families, which in the present case had strongly hit Iceland but has (for the time being) bypassed Poland. The authors use quantitative and qualitative data collected during field research in Iceland and Poland.
Comparison of frovatriptan plus dexketoprofen (25 mg or 37.5 mg) with frovatriptan alone in the treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura: A randomized study
Authors: Tullo Vincenzo , Valguarnera Fabio , Barbanti Piero , Cortelli Pietro , Sette Giuliano , Allais Gianni , d’Onofrio Florindo , Curone Marcella , Zava Dario , Pezzola Deborha , Benedetto Chiara , Frediani Fabio , Bussone Gennaro
Published: December 2013

Background

Drugs for migraine attacks include triptans and NSAIDs; their combination could provide greater symptom relief.

Methods

A total of 314 subjects with history of migraine, with or without aura, were randomized to frovatriptan 2.5 mg alone (Frova), frovatriptan 2.5 mg + dexketoprofen 25 mg (FroDex25) or frovatriptan 2.5 mg + dexketoprofen 37.5 mg (FroDex37.5) and treated at least one migraine attack. This was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study. The primary end point was the proportion of pain free (PF) at two hours. Secondary end points were PF at one and four hours, pain relief (PR) at one, two, four hours, sustained PF (SPF) at 24 and 48 hours, recurrence at 48 hours, resolution of nausea, photophobia and phonophobia at two and four hours, the use of rescue medication and the judgment of the treatment.

Results

The results were assessed in the full analysis set (FAS) population, which included all subjects randomized and treated for whom at least one post-dose intensity of headache was recorded. The proportions of subjects PF at two hours (primary end point) were 29% (27/93) with Frova compared with 51% (48/95 FroDex25 and 46/91 FroDex37.5) with each combination therapies ( p < 0.05). Proportions of SPF at 24 hours were 24% (22/93) for Frova, 43% (41/95) for FroDex25 ( p < 0.001) and 42% (38/91) for FroDex37.5 ( p < 0.05). SPF at 48 hours was 23% (21/93) with Frova, 36% (34/95) with FroDex25 and 33% (30/91) with FroDex37.5 ( p = NS). Recurrence was similar for Frova (22%, 6/27), FroDex25 (29%, 14/48) and FroDex37.5 (28%, 13/46) ( p = NS), meaning a lack of improvement with the combination therapy. Statistical adjustment for multiple comparisons was not performed. No statistically significant differences were reported in the occurrence of total and drug-related adverse events. FroDex25 and FroDex37.5 showed a similar efficacy both for primary and secondary end points. There did not seem to be a dose response curve for the addition of dexketoprofen.

Conclusion

FroDex improved initial efficacy at two hours compared to Frova whilst maintaining efficacy at 48 hours in this study. Tolerability profiles were comparable. Intrinsic pharmacokinetic properties of the two single drugs contribute to this improved efficacy profile.
Women’s Masturbation
Authors: Bowman Christin P.
Published: December 2013

With the present study, I explore the function, meaning, and empowerment potential of masturbation for 765 American women. The sample was somewhat diverse, but primarily young (79% under 30), White (75%), educated (85% with at least a bachelor’s degree), and heterosexual (67%). Participants completed an online anonymous survey that included endorsement of various attitudes toward masturbation, reasons for masturbating, and emotions following masturbation. Two split-half exploratory factor analyses (followed by confirmatory factor analyses) indicated that women’s reasons for masturbating clustered into five main reasons: (a) sexual pleasure, (b) to learn about or better understand their bodies, (c) as a release, (d) to substitute for partner sex, and (e) general sexual dissatisfaction. Women’s feelings regarding their masturbation fell into three clusters: (a) shame, (b) sexual empowerment, and (c) fear that one is acting selfishly. Most women in my study did not feel ashamed about masturbating; instead, many women felt sexually empowered. A hierarchical multiple regression demonstrated that women were more likely to feel sexually empowered by the fact that they masturbate if they reported being more sexually efficacious, having higher genital self-image, and masturbating for sexual pleasure or to learn more about their bodies. Results lend support to the feminist theory that when women are able to focus on their own sexual pleasure or learning, without the concerns of pregnancy or pleasing a partner, they may feel sexually empowered.
Hand Hygiene Practices Reported by Nurse Aides in Nursing Homes
Authors: Castle Nicholas , Handler Steven , Wagner Laura
Published: December 2013

Information from nurse aides describing their opinions of hand hygiene practices in nursing homes including perceived barriers to hand hygiene is presented. The information comes from a questionnaire developed for this investigation, with items addressing compliance, facility guidelines and protocols, training, hand washing facilities and materials, and hand washing barriers. Information from 4,211 nurse aides (response rate of 56%) working in a nationally representative sample of 767 nursing homes (participation rate = 51%) is used. We find that 57.4% of nurse aides comply with hand washing when caring for residents most of the time, while 21.7% always comply. With facilities, 43.3% sometimes check that hand washing is performed. In summary, self-reported compliance was poor, and facilities and materials were often lacking. These findings are useful in identifying issues and interventions, including the need for further initiatives to address hand hygiene practices.
Special Education Teacher Candidate Assessment
Authors: McCall Zach , McHatton Patricia Alvarez , Shealey Monika Williams
Published: December 2013

Teacher preparation has been under intense scrutiny in recent years. In order for preparation of special education teacher candidates to remain viable, candidate assessment practices must apply practices identified in the extant literature base, while special education teacher education researchers must extend this base with rigorous efforts to link preservice candidate assessment of knowledge, skills, and dispositions, to authentic experiences in the field, in-service professional practice, and student achievement. The authors review prior research on special education candidate assessment from 2000 to the present in three primary domains: skills and knowledge related to academics, behavior, collaboration, and transition; dispositional factors, including attitudes about disability, inclusion, and diversity; and authentic, field-based assessments, including measures of candidates’ impact on students and their induction experiences. Implications for policy and practice are provided.
Job satisfaction in the judiciary
Authors: Roach Anleu Sharyn , Mack Kathy
Published: December 2013

This article examines job satisfaction among judicial officers in Australia. Increasing numbers of women have entered the judiciary and their job satisfaction is a key route to understanding their experiences of this elite role. This paper applies concepts of job satisfaction to the judiciary and investigates gender differences. Data from two national surveys demonstrate that women and men across the Australian judiciary express very high levels of overall job satisfaction, though areas of dissatisfaction exist, in particular regarding work–life balance. Gender differences do not appear to be direct, but mediated by other characteristics which are gender-related. Broadly, these findings demonstrate that a full understanding of job satisfaction now requires attention to family/domestic demands and commitments and the workplace context, as well as to the intrinsic nature of the work and the extrinsic characteristics of the job.
An algorithm for structural synthesis of planar simple and multiple joint kinematic chains
Authors: Chu Jinkui , Zou Yanhuo
Published: December 2013

Structural synthesis of kinematic chains is one of the most creative and important stages in mechanical design. It provides a number of optional structure types when new mechanisms are created. In this paper, a new algorithm for structural synthesis of planar simple and multiple joint kinematic chains has been proposed by subsequently adding single-kinematic-chain method. By this algorithm, the structure of multiple joint kinematic chains with specified degree-of-freedom, the number of links, and total multiple joint factors P can be synthesized in batch. When P = 0, the structure of simple joint kinematic chains with specified degree-of-freedom, and the number of links can also be generated. Finally, structural synthesis examples of planar simple and multiple joint kinematic chains have been studied to show effectiveness of this algorithm.
Damage identification using flexural vibration actuated and sensed by piezoelectric transducers
Authors: Lee Sinyeob , Jeong Seongbin , Park Junhong
Published: December 2013

A diagnostic method of inspecting structural integrity using vibration, which is generated and monitored by piezoelectric transducers, is presented. When damage occurs in structures, the flexural-wave propagation characteristics change because of discontinuities in structural properties. To monitor this change, frequency-dependent variation of the wavenumber is measured from the piezoelectrically actuated harmonic vibration of a structure. The theoretical model was proposed to analyze the wave propagation and standing-wave pattern in the structure. Its prediction was compared to the measured vibration response on the basis of which the theoretical model was verified. Using the predicted response, the sensitivity of the potential energy to damage is obtained. With damages of different sizes and locations induced on the beam, the change in the wavenumber and equivalent dynamic stiffness was obtained from the measured transfer functions. The location and size of damage was identified from the damage index accurately. The correlation coefficient between the sensitivity of the potential energy and the variation of the dynamic stiffness was used in estimating the damage index. Analysis of the flexural-wave propagation from piezoelectric actuation allowed continued and precise structural health monitoring.
Psychology, the psychological, and critical praxis: A phenomenologist reads Frantz Fanon
Authors: Desai Miraj U.
Published: December 2013

This article situates the role of psychological investigations in analyses of social problems like colonialism and racism, via a phenomenological reading of the writings of Frantz Fanon. Emerging scholarship on Fanon’s use of psychology is beginning to elucidate how his style of analysis enables an interweaving of psychological insights with sociopolitical ones. The present paper builds on this research by explicating the essential moments of Fanon’s approach. Fanonian investigations are shown to be characterized by a focus on: experience, concrete examples, evidence, meaning, unprejudiced seeing from multiple perspectives, delineation of essential structure, and critical and liberating praxis. Fanon is then compared to other theorists operating at the nexus of psychology and society in order to delineate an overall structure of psychopolitical investigations. Overall, the paper attempts to sketch ways in which psychology can be advanced as a science and praxis of human liberation.
“There’s just something about this club. It’s been my family.” An analysis of the experiences of youth in a South African sport-for-development programme
Authors: Draper Catherine E , Coalter Fred
Published: December 2013

This article describes a study of a soccer and life skills programme for youth in South Africa: Buffalo City Soccer School (BCSS). The study aimed to provide insight into the programme’s mechanisms, and evaluate participants’ perceptions of the programme’s impact. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 male BCSS participants. Interview data were analysed for thematic content, and the theoretical perspectives of Witt and Crompton ((1997) The protective factors framework: A key to programming for benefits and evaluating for results. Journal of Park and Recreation Administration 15: 1–18), Gambone and Arbreton ((1997) Safe Havens: The Contributions of Youth Organizations to Healthy Adolescent Development. Philadelphia, PA: Public/Private Ventures) and Pawson ((2006) Evidence-Based Policy: A Realist Perspective. London: SAGE) were used to interpret these themes. These perspectives highlighted key processes and mechanisms within the BCSS programme that have led to positive personal impacts: a sense of family and a sense of safety and belonging. Bandura’s ((1986) Social Foundations of Thought and Action: A Social Cognitive Theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall) concepts of perceived self-efficacy and agency in adolescent development (Bandura A (2006) Adolescent development from an agentic perspective. In: Pajares F and Urdan T (eds) Self-Efficacy Beliefs of Adolescents. Greenwich, CT: Information Age Publishing, pp. 1–43) help make sense of these personal impacts. This study contributes to the identification of the mechanisms through which sport can provide a context for the development of youth.
Family leisure consumption and youth sport socialization in post-communist Poland: A perspective based on Bourdieu’s class theory
Authors: Lenartowicz Michał
Published: December 2013

This study analyses the class-related determinants of sport socialization and sport practices in Poland from the perspective of Bourdieu’s class theory. We investigate how parents equip their children with sports-related cultural capital, including whether or not they take into account the social recognition of sport activities and how this is reflected in sport socialization practices. We performed in-depth interviews with parents whose children practised horseback riding, lawn tennis, soccer and wrestling, and a quantitative nationwide survey of parents of children aged 7–16 who practise sports. Class-based patterns of sport socialization, parents’ past sport experiences and present participation and family leisure and sport consumption were observed in the qualitative part of the research, in which we found sport practices and tastes to be quite distinct according to class. Yet, except for class-dependent sport consumption, this pattern was not confirmed in the survey. Sport practices within highly commercialized sport services in present-day Poland may be used as markers of social position by those who enter this social field – approximately 40% of the Polish population. The rest remain undefined and undistinguishable in terms of a specific sport-related lifestyle.
Analysis of the Validity Scales in the Trauma Symptom Checklist for Children
Authors: Butcher Fredrick , Kretschmar Jeff M. , Lin Yingge , Flannery Daniel J. , Singer Mark I.
Published: December 2013

Objective:

Little empirical attention has been paid to the validity scales of the Trauma Symptom Checklist for Children (TSCC). The purpose of this study is to examine the prevalence of cases identified by the validity scales and its analytical impact.

Methods:

The current study compares regression models using data from two community samples ( n = 3,724 and n = 2,245) and two samples of at-risk youth ( n = 1,758 and n = 204). Using Chow tests to compare coefficients, we demonstrate the implications of removing cases identified by the TSCC validity scales.

Results:

The Underresponse (UND) scale identified 8% of the community sample and 20% of the at-risk sample. Chow tests revealed significant group differences based on the UND scale for all TSCC subscales.

Conclusion:

The present study demonstrates the analytical impact of the TSCC validity scales and provides statistical evidence for the removal of invalid cases.
Residential Segregation and the Survival of U.S. Urban Public Hospitals
Authors: Ko Michelle , Needleman Jack , Derose Kathryn Pitkin , Laugesen Miriam J. , Ponce Ninez A.
Published: December 2013

Residential segregation is associated geographic disparities in access to care, but its impact on local health care policy, including public hospitals, is unknown. We examined the effects of racial residential segregation on U.S. urban public hospital closures from 1987 to 2007, controlling for hospital, market, and policy characteristics. We found that a high level of residential segregation moderated the protective effects of Black population composition, such that a high level of residential segregation, in combination with a high percentage of poor residents, conferred a higher likelihood of hospital closure. More segregated and poorer communities face disadvantages in access to care that may be compounded as a result of instability in the health care safety net. Policy makers should consider the influence of social factors such as residential segregation on the allocation of the safety net resources.
Labor-Community Coalitions Through an Urban Regime Lens
Authors: Camou Michelle
Published: December 2013

This paper examines labor-community coalitions through an urban regime framework and focuses on three theoretically derived questions: (1) Do labor-community coalitions build “power to” in similar ways as more typical urban regimes? (2) Does the resulting policy adoption promote social change and, more conjecturally, (3) Does cooptation or ideology better explain the modest scope of change associated with labor-community coalitions? This examination of labor-community coalitions suggests partial support for urban regime theory’s assertion that power building advances through the institutionalization of cross-sectoral relationships that permit resource sharing. Relational power-building strategies have certainly helped labor-community coalitions diffuse a stable policy agenda across cities. Nonetheless, the impacts of the labor-community agenda have been modest and in line with the status quo, an outcome that may reflect more than pragmatic “going along to get along” by activists motivated to maintain access to regime-provided resources. Instead, the paper argues for maintaining the concept of ideological constraint in the explanation and practice of building power from below.
Performing materialities
Authors: Holloway-Attaway Lissa
Published: December 2013

In my research, I explore mixed reality applications developed to engage and sustain collaborative and participatory digital narratives. In particular, I provide a theoretical context for a collaborative research project, The (re-)Mapping Moby Project, to illustrate how augmented reality tools and social media applications are used to sustain a critical/creative reading of Herman Melville’s 1851 work Moby-Dick through participatory, performative, and locative digital practices. I address how both ‘texts’ and ‘bodies’ assume ontological properties through interfaces and responses that foreground affect, and I demonstrate methods to map locative and narrative shifts as they move from print to digital forms.
Computing en plein air
Authors: Tinnell John
Published: December 2013

Recent advancements in augmented reality (AR) technology have begun to position the medium for widespread adoption and cultural impact. But these ongoing technical victories give way to pressing challenges in the area of content creation. As the page differs from the screen, so too do the hybrid design spaces of AR differ from the virtual reality of the desktop. Caught in the transition from the personal computing era to the ubiquitous computing paradigm, multimedia producers in many fields will need to adapt to AR platforms. To which traditions, then, might we turn for aesthetic models? This article aims to incite an aesthetic transference between French Impressionist painting and AR media practices, while acknowledging the influences of other avant-garde legacies. I draw upon a transdisciplinary matrix of scholarship in media theory and visual culture in order to emphasize the relevance of Impressionism as an art historical precedent for understanding contemporary AR projects, and to suggest how Impressionist principles of composition might inform AR media aesthetics.
Reconstructing the Indian public sphere: Newswork and social media in the Delhi gang rape case
Authors: Belair-Gagnon Valerie , Mishra Smeeta , Agur Colin
Published: December 2013

In recent years, a growing literature in journalism studies has discussed the increasing importance of social media in European and American news production. Adding to this body of work, we explore how Indian and foreign correspondents reporting from India used social media during the coverage of the Delhi gang rape; how journalists represented the public sphere in their social media usage; and, what this representation says about the future of India’s public sphere. Throughout our analysis, Manuel Castells’ discussion of ‘space of flows’ informs our examination of journalists’ social media uses. Our article reveals that while the coverage of the Delhi gang rape highlights an emerging, participatory nature of storytelling by journalists, this new-found inclusiveness remains exclusive to the urban, educated, connected middle and upper classes. We also find that today in India, social media usage is rearticulated around pre-existing journalistic practices and norms common to both Indian reporters working for English-language media houses and foreign correspondents stationed in India.
The Humanities without condition: Derrida and the singular oeuvre
Authors: Attridge Derek
Published: December 2013

In an important lecture on the function of the Humanities, ‘The University without Condition’, Jacques Derrida asks what it means to ‘profess’ the truth and advocates a commitment to the oeuvre – the work that constitutes an event rather than just a contribution to knowledge. I examine a few phrases from the lecture, focusing on questions of the unconditional, the ‘as if’, singularity, the future, and the impossible.
Relative velocity control and integral line of sight for path following of autonomous surface vessels: Merging intuition with theory
Authors: Caharija Walter , Pettersen Kristin Y , Sørensen Asgeir J , Candeloro Mauro , Gravdahl Jan T
Published: December 2013

The integral line-of-sight guidance law for path following applications of autonomous surface vessels is presented in a unified manner, merging intuitive and theoretical aspects of this valuable control technique. Straight line path following scenarios of underactuated surface vessels in the presence of unknown constant irrotational ocean currents are considered. The integral line-of-sight guidance and two feedback controllers are combined into a cascaded configuration where the integral effect in the line-of-sight guidance is introduced to counteract the disturbance. The chosen integration law is defined to reduce the risk of wind-up effects, and it is shown that the integral action in the line-of-sight guidance law performs a vectorial sum between the vessel relative velocity and the unknown current velocity to compensate for the drift. Moreover, only relative velocities are used in the feedback loop since the ocean current is assumed constant and irrotational. Redefining the vessel model with relative velocities significantly simplifies the control system compared to the approach based on absolute velocities. Closed-loop uniform local exponential stability is achieved for path following of straight line paths. Furthermore, in steady state, the presented guidance law paired with measurements of the absolute speed and the relative speed of the vessel yields to an estimation of the ocean current. Simulations are presented to support the theoretical results.
New iPSC for old long QT syndrome modeling: Putting the evidence into perspective
Authors: Li Guoliang , Cheng Gong , Wu Jine , Ma Shuting , Sun Chaofeng
Published: December 2013

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells or iPSCs) are typically derived by transfection of certain stem cell-associated genes into non-pluripotent cells, such as adult fibroblasts (typically adult somatic cells). Various diseases can be modeled through iPSC technology. The important implication of iPSCs to offer an unprecedented opportunity to recapitulate pathologic human tissue formation in vitro has generated great excitement and interest in the whole biomedical research community. Long QT syndrome (LQTS), an inherited heart disease, is characterized by prolonged QT interval on a surface electrocardiogram. LQTS presents with life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, which can lead to fainting, syncope, and sudden death. The iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes from LQTS patients offer a potentially unlimited source of materials for biomedical study. They can be used to recapitulate complex physiological phenotypes, probe toxicological testing and drug screening, clarify the novel mechanistic insights and may also rectify gene defects at the cellular and molecular level. Despite the emerging challenges, iPSC technology has been increasingly recognized as a valuable and growing toolkit for modeling LQTS over other various models of human diseases.
Thapsigargin affects presenilin-2 but not presenilin-1 regulation in SK-N-BE cells
Authors: Rivabene Roberto , Visentin Sergio , Piscopo Paola , Nuccio Chiara De , Crestini Alessio , Svetoni Francesca , Rosa Paolo , Confaloni Annamaria
Published: December 2013

Presenilin-1 (PS1) and presenilin-2 (PS2) are transmembrane proteins widely expressed in the central nervous system, which function as the catalytic subunits of γ-secretase, the enzyme that releases amyloid-β protein (Aβ) from ectodomain cleaved amyloid precursor protein (APP) by intramembrane proteolysis. Mutations in PS1, PS2, and Aβ protein precursor are involved in the etiology of familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD), while the cause of the sporadic form of AD (SAD) is still not known. However, since similar neuropathological changes have been observed in both FAD and SAD, a common pathway in the etiology of the disease has been suggested. Given that age-related deranged Ca2+ regulation has been hypothesized to play a role in SAD pathogenesis via PS gene regulation and γ-secretase activity, we studied the in vitro regulation of PS1 and PS2 in the human neuron-like SK-N-BE cell line treated with the specific endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium ATPase inhibitor Thapsigargin (THG), to introduce intracellular Ca2+ perturbations and mimic the altered Ca2+ homeostasis observed in AD. Our results showed a consistent and significant down-regulation of PS2, while PS1 appeared to be unmodulated. These events were accompanied by oxidative stress and a number of morphological alterations suggestive of the induction of apoptotic machinery. The administration of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) did not revert the THG-induced effects reported, while treatment with the Ca2+-independent ER stressor Brefeldin A did not modulate basal PS1 and PS2 expression. Collectively, these results suggest that Ca2+ fluctuation rather than ER stress and/or oxidative imbalance seems to play an essential role in PS2 regulation and confirm that, despite their strong homology, PS1 and PS2 could play different roles in AD.
Impact of Psychological Distress on Prostate Cancer Screening in U.S. Military Veterans
Authors: Silberbogen Amy K. , Busby Andrea K. , Ulloa Erin W.
Published: December 2013

The benefit of routine prostate cancer screening is currently under debate; however, many experts recommend that men with elevated risk for the disease discuss the potential risks and benefits of screening with their health care team. Psychological factors have been negatively associated with preventive health behaviors such as cancer screenings. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of depressive and trauma-related symptoms on prostate cancer screening behaviors and relevant health care perceptions among a sample of U.S. military veterans, as veterans are at higher risk for prostate cancer, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder than the general population. Participants ( n = 350) were a national sample of predominantly Caucasian (84.6%) male U.S. military veterans (60.5 years ± 8.9) who completed an online questionnaire regarding past prostate cancer screening engagement, as well as validated measures of depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and perceived barriers and benefits to prostate cancer screening. Results indicate that greater depressive symptoms, trauma-related symptoms, and perceived barriers were associated with lower rates of past prostate cancer screening among this veteran sample and that greater depressive and trauma-related symptoms were associated with greater perceived barriers to prostate cancer screening. As prostate cancer screening recommendations continue to evolve, it is important for health care providers not only to discuss pros and cons of screening with high risk men but also to consider the impact of psychological distress on the decision-making process.
Effect of chirality and point defect on resonant characterization of single-walled boron nitride nanotube-based mass sensor
Authors: Panchal Mitesh B , Upadhyay Sanjay H
Published: December 2013

In this article, the resonant behavior of a single-walled boron nitride nanotube (SWBNNT)-based mass sensor has been analyzed considering the chiral atomic structures and the presence of point defect along the length of the nanotube. The single atom vacancies and divacancy (BN divacancy) are considered as point defects. The resonant frequency-based analysis has been performed considering a finite element model of a cantilevered single-walled boron nitride nanotube, based on molecular structural mechanics. The analysis has been performed considering the different chiral atomic structures of a single-walled boron nitride nanotube, having a chiral angle of between 0° (zigzag) and 30° (armchair). Also, along with the effect of chirality, the presence of a point defect along the length of nanotube has been analyzed as a poor atomic structure of a single-walled boron nitride nanotube. The three different positions of point defect along the length of nanotube have been considered. The obtained results indicate that, for the particular size of nanotube, as the chiral angle decreases, the atomic structure of nanotube become more closely packed and ultimately effects the resonant behavior of nanotube. The presence of a point defect and its different positions along the length of nanotube effects the overall resonant behavior of a single-walled boron nitride nanotube, which is attributed due to change in the structural stiffness of the nanotube. The reported results can be used to identify the different types of considered point defects as well as its position along the length of nanotube. The present simulation approach is found to be very effectual, incorporates the different atomic structures of a single-walled boron nitride nanotube and simulates the different boundary conditions.
Concurrent dorsal dimelia in 160 consecutive patients with congenital anomalies of the hands and feet
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M.
Published: December 2013

This study was designed to investigate the prevalence of dorsal dimelia in a series of 160 consecutive patients with congenital anomalies of the hands and feet, and to investigate the distribution of dorsal dimelia and the concurrent anomalies. Five cases (3.1%) showed evidence of dorsal dimelia and the distribution of dorsal dimelia was similar to the distribution of concurrent anomalies in all five cases. Another 11 cases of concurrent dorsal dimelia with other congenital anomalies have been reported previously with a positive match in the distributions in all cases. This similarity in the distribution in all 16 reported cases (including the five cases in the current study) is statistically significant. It is concluded that dorsal dimelia in humans is not as rare as it is generally thought to be, and that it may be viewed as an error of dorso-ventral patterning, which occurs in the same distribution as other concurrent anomalies.
Structure and genetic basis of Yersinia similis serotype O:9 O-specific polysaccharide
Authors: Beczała Agnieszka , Ovchinnikova Olga G , Datta Neeta , Mattinen Laura , Knapska Katarzyna , Radziejewska-Lebrecht Joanna , Holst Otto , Skurnik Mikael
Published: December 2013

The O-polysaccharide (OPS, O-Ag) cap of LPS is a major virulence factor of Yersinia species and also serves as a receptor for the binding of lytic bacteriophage φR1-37. Currently, the OPS-based serotyping scheme for the Yersinia pseudotuberculosis complex includes 21 known O-serotypes that follow three distinct lineages: Y. pseudotuberculosis sensu stricto, Y. similis and the Korean group of strains. Elucidation of the Y. pseudotuberculosis complex OPS structures and characterization of the OPS genetics (altogether 18 O-serotypes studied thus far) allows a better understanding of the relationships among the various O serotypes and will facilitate the analysis of the evolutionary processes giving rise to new serotypes. Here we present the characterization of the OPS structure and gene cluster of Y. similis O:9. Bacteriophage φR1-37, which uses the Y. similis O:9 OPS as a receptor, also infects a number of Y. enterocolitica serotypes, including O:3, O:5,27, O:9 and O:50. The Y. similis O:9 OPS structure resembled none of the receptor structures of the Y. enterocolitica strains, suggesting that φR1-37 can recognize several surface receptors, thus promoting broad host specificity.
Nail disorders
Authors: Williams Catherine Johanna , Simon Chantal
Published: December 2013

Nail disorders constitute a significant number of skin-related GP consultations. They are a recognised cause of absenteeism from work and psychological distress caused by disfigurement. This article focuses on the recognition and management of common nail disorders and red-flag conditions. Nail disorders are also frequently seen as part of systemic diseases. These underlying conditions will be discussed when relevant but the focus will be on the management of the associated nail disorder.
4-Aminopyridine for symptomatic treatment of multiple sclerosis: a systematic review
Authors: Jensen Henrik Boye , Ravnborg Mads , Dalgas Ulrik , Stenager Egon
Published: December 2013

This systematic review summarizes the existing evidence on the effect of 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) as a symptomatic treatment of decreased walking capacity in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) when administered as an immediate release compound and a slow release compound. It summarizes existing evidence on the basic mechanisms of 4-AP from experimental studies and evidence on the clinical use of the compound. A systematic literature search was conducted of the following databases: PubMed and EMBASE. Thirty-five studies were included in the review divided into 16 experimental studies, two clinical studies with paraclinical endpoints and 17 clinical studies with clinical endpoints. Animal studies show that 4-AP can improve impulse conduction through demyelinated lesions. In patients with MS this translates into improved walking speed and muscle strength of the lower extremities in a subset of patients at a level that is often of clinical relevance. Phase III trials demonstrate approximately 25% increase in walking speed in roughly 40% and improved muscle strength in the lower extremities. Furthermore, 4-AP might have an effect on other domains such as cognition, upper extremity function and bowel and bladder, but this warrants further investigation. Side effects are mainly mild to moderate, consisting primarily of paraesthesia, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, falls/balance disorders, insomnia, urinary tract infections and asthenia. Side effects are worse when administered intravenously and when administered as an immediate release compound. Serious adverse events are rarely seen in the marketed clinical dosages.

In conclusion, 4-AP is easy and safe to use. Slow release 4-AP shows more robust clinical effects and a more beneficial side-effect profile than immediate release 4-AP.
Comparing cancer vs normal gene expression profiles identifies new disease entities and common transcriptional programs in AML patients
Authors: Rapin Nicolas , Bagger Frederik Otzen , Jendholm Johan , Mora-Jensen Helena , Krogh Anders , Kohlmann Alexander , Thiede Christian , Borregaard Niels , Bullinger Lars , Winther Ole , Theilgaard-Mönch Kim , Porse Bo T.
Published: December 2013

Key Points

This study describes a method for the comparison of gene expression data of any type of cancer cells with their corresponding normal cells. Our analyses reveal novel disease entities, identify common deregulated transcriptional networks, and predict survival.
IL-17 protects T cells from apoptosis and contributes to development of ALPS-like phenotypes
Authors: Boggio Elena , Clemente Nausicaa , Mondino Anna , Cappellano Giuseppe , Orilieri Elisabetta , Gigliotti Casimiro L. , Toth Erika , Ramenghi Ugo , Dianzani Umberto , Chiocchetti Annalisa
Published: December 2013

Key Points

In vitro, IL-17 inhibits Fas-induced cell death and IL-17 neutralization improves lymphocyte apoptosis in patients with ALPS and DALD. Treatment of MRLlpr/lpr mice with anti–IL-17A antibodies decreases the severity of autoimmune/lymphoproliferative disease.