bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“You’re Really Just a Gay Man in a Woman’s Body!”
Authors: Stone Amy L. , Shapiro Eve
Published: February 2016

Queer theory has long argued for the liberatory potential of separating masculinity from men. This article examines whether and how masculinities can be radically transgressive for individuals and simultaneously re-create gendered systems of inequality. In two case studies—a drag troupe and a queer leather club—we find that the cultivated queer sexualities were mimetic iterations of sexual practices among gay men and came rife with both the possibilities and problematics of these real and imagined tropes. We trace the consequences of this in two processes: the eroticization and self-exploration of masculinity and the reliance on validation from gay men. We find that the empowering sexualities taken up by individuals were concurrently rooted in and reproduced sexist meanings of desire and sexual agency. In so doing, we contribute to sociological understanding of masculinities by charting how androcentrism is reproduced in some groups, with or without the presence of male bodies.
The relation of trait and state mindfulness with satisfaction and physical activity: A cross-sectional study in 305 Dutch participants
Authors: Tsafou Kalliopi-Eleni , Lacroix Joyca PW , van Ee Raymond , Vinkers Charlotte DW , De Ridder Denise TD
Published: February 2016

Previous research has shown that satisfaction mediates the relationship of state mindfulness (i.e. during physical activity) with physical activity. This study aimed to replicate this finding and to explore the role of trait mindfulness with a cross-sectional design. In all, 305 participants completed measures on trait and state mindfulness, satisfaction with physical activity, and physical activity. Mediation analyses were used. Satisfaction mediated the effect of state mindfulness on physical activity. Trait mindfulness related to physical activity via an indirect path, namely through two consecutive mediators, first state mindfulness and then satisfaction. Our results suggest that to enhance satisfaction, both state and trait mindfulness should be considered.
People living with facial disfigurement after having had noma disease: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Wali Imamatu Muhammad , Regmi Krishna
Published: February 2016

Noma disease often results in impairment, morbidity and severe facial disfigurement. This article reports a systematic review of literatures published between 2006 and 2015 to establish existing knowledge about social stigma associated with facial disfigurements. Five databases were searched and 114 citations were screened, of which only 15 met the relevant criteria. Titles and abstracts of the retrieved articles were independently reviewed. The research was heterogeneous; therefore, overall synthesis using meta-analysis was inappropriate. It can be seen that the review demonstrates that facial disfigurements are far more complex than was previously thought.
Acute spinal cord injury patients’ satisfaction with care: Results from an intervention study in a specialized rehabilitation unit
Authors: Lusilla-Palacios Pilar , Castellano-Tejedor Carmina
Published: February 2016

To assess satisfaction with care in acute spinal cord injury patients admitted to a specialized rehabilitation unit prior and after a tailored training in communication skills for the staff, the Picker Patient Experience-33 ((1) Content of the information, (2) Quality of the information, and (3) Quality of the relationship), the Spinal Cord Independence Measure-III, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were administered. The more troublesome dimension regarding patients’ satisfaction was content of the information, with 88.37 and 91.43 percent (pre/post-intervention) reporting problems with information provided concerning their rights, and 51.15 and 58.72 percent (pre/post-intervention) with the information received at discharge. Overall, functionality (Spinal Cord Independence Measure-III) improved at discharge, but Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale pre/post-scores revealed to be high.
Oncology healthcare professionals’ perspectives on the psychosocial support needs of cancer patients during oncology treatment
Authors: Aldaz Bruno E , Treharne Gareth J , Knight Robert G , Conner Tamlin S , Perez David
Published: February 2016

This study explored oncology healthcare professionals’ perspectives on the psychosocial support needs of diverse cancer patients during oncology treatment. Six themes were identified using thematic analysis. Healthcare professionals highlighted the importance of their sensitivity, respect and emotional tact during appointments in order to effectively identify and meet the needs of oncology patients. Participants also emphasised the importance of building rapport that recognises patients as people. Patients’ acceptance of treatment-related distress and uncertainty was described as required for uptake of available psychosocial supportive services. We offer some practical implications that may help improve cancer patients’ experiences during oncology treatment.
Subcultural boundary maintenance in a virtual community for body modification enthusiasts
Authors: Roberts Derek
Published: February 2016

While it has been suggested that tattoos and piercings have gone mainstream, there remains a body modification subculture dedicated to more extreme forms of modification than are accepted by the majority of society. I present data from an ethnographic study of the subculture, focusing on various attempts to uphold group boundaries in a virtual community designed for body modification enthusiasts. As the website began to shift away from its subcultural roots, members increasingly criticised the new administration and mainstream body modifiers. Emphasising the social distance between themselves and those with discreetly modified bodies, members of the subculture ultimately abandoned the online community they helped build. This study contributes to the understanding of the significance of virtual spaces to real-world subcultures.
Cultural Borrowings of Russians from the Natives of Alaska in the 18th and 19th Centuries
Authors: Grinëv Andrei V , Bland Richard L
Published: February 2016

This article is dedicated to an analysis of Russian cultural borrowings from the Natives of Alaska and Aleutian Islands during the second half of the 18th century until 1867, when these territories were sold to the USA. As this research shows, the Russians, in the process of their colonization of the New World, borrowed objects of a predominantly utilitarian character in the sphere of material culture. Most of these borrowings took place in the 18th century, when the Russians had weak connections with the metropolis and there was a scarcity of European goods. The spiritual culture of the Natives, with the exception of some linguistic borrowings, chiefly of a toponymic character, remained outside the cultural circle of the immigrants from Russia.
Development of statistical design models for concrete sandwich panels with continuous glass-fiber-reinforced polymer shear connectors
Authors: Kang Won-Hee , Kim JunHee
Published: February 2016

This article proposes a statistical framework for the development of design models for concrete sandwich panels with glass-fiber-reinforced polymer shear grids. The framework is developed by integrating the Bayesian parameter estimation method and the Eurocode-based capacity reduction factor calibration method. In the first part of the framework, probabilistic and deterministic shear flow prediction models are proposed based on 32 experimental data. It is seen that the contribution of glass-fiber-reinforced polymer grids is dominant, although parameters on the geometrical and material properties of insulation and concrete wythes also contribute. Different constant terms for bias correction of the proposed models are proposed according to the insulation type, and the prediction error of the developed model was reduced. In the second part of the framework, the capacity reduction factor for the proposed deterministic formulas is calculated for design purposes. Statistical calibrations for capacity factors are carried out to meet a target reliability level, and the value is estimated to be approximately 0.75 for all proposed models. Further data collection will improve the applicability of the proposed models and clarify quantification of the contribution of parameters.
What we talk about when we talk about interactivity: Empowerment in public discourse
Authors: Barry Marguerite , Doherty Gavin
Published: February 2016

This study offers new insights into interactivity by examining its association with empowerment in public discourse. Using data from 20 years of newspaper coverage, a mixed methods analysis reveals different ‘modes’ of interactivity in discourse. Empowerment is the dominant mode of interactivity despite substantial changes in technologies and uses over this time. A content analysis shows that older discourses associate interactivity with specific technologies, while recent discourses use more universal terms. The discourse analysis illustrates the range of empowerment found in different interactive experiences, from basic data access to collaboration across communities, even reaching beyond communication events. The study offers a new model for understanding interactivity and empowerment based on the potential in communications for action, context, strategies and outcomes. This layered and flexible approach has appeal for digital media research and production.
Why can’t we get beyond quality?
Authors: Moss Peter
Published: February 2016

The article, by one of the authors of the book Beyond Quality in Early Childhood Education and Care, has three goals. The first is to recap the ‘problem with quality’, the starting point for the book. The second is to summarise the argument in Beyond Quality for problematising the concept of quality, and why, therefore, ‘quality’ is a choice and not a necessity. Lastly, it is to examine the paradox of Beyond Quality and, in so doing, to worry away at a troubling issue: Why has it proven so hard to get beyond quality? Why does it exert such a strong gravitational pull?
A more-than-social movement: The post-human condition of quality in the early years
Authors: Arndt Sonja , Tesar Marek
Published: February 2016

This article explores quality in early childhood education by de-elevating the importance of the human subject and experience, and heightening instead a focus on and tensions with the post-human. The argument traces the intricate web of ‘qualities’ woven throughout entanglements of subjects, objects and things that constitute what is referred to as ‘the early years sector’. The strike through the social in this post-human condition exposes critical concerns about the ‘problem’ of quality, and foregrounds the urgency of rupturing the status quo. Dislodged from the perceived comfort and safety of human control and determination, quality in the speculative state of the more-than-social movement can expect no conclusion. Instead, the (re)configuration of the early years sector as a more-than-social movement compels a rethinking of the dominance of human-centric philosophies. By repositioning Kristeva’s semiotic subject-in-process and Havel’s subject positionings within automatisms, this analysis inserts ‘non-human-being’ and ‘multiple beings-times’ into the ‘problem with quality’. In the early childhood sector, these ruptures create generative possibilities of quality entanglements with and beyond the human.
Developing learning diaries for action research on healthcare management in Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda
Authors: Mshelia Comfort , Lê Gillian , Mirzoev Tolib , Amon Samuel , Kessy Ambrose , Baine Sebastian Olikira , Huss Reinhard
Published: February 2016

Action research (AR) can be an effective form of ‘on the job’ training. However, it is critical that AR cycles can be appropriately recorded in order to contribute to reflection and learning. One form of recording is for coresearchers to keep a diary. We found no previous literature describing the use of diaries in AR in sub-Saharan Africa. We therefore use this paper to reflect on how diaries were used by district health management teams in the PERFORM project. We share five lessons from our experience. First, it is important to foster ownership of the diary by the people who are responsible for filling it in. Second, the purpose of keeping a diary needs to be clear and shared between researchers and practitioners from the very beginning. Third, diaries should be allowed to evolve. Fourth, it is a challenge for busy practitioners to record the reflection and learning processes that they go through. Last, diaries on their own are not sufficient to capture reflection and learning. In conclusion, there is no best way for practitioners to keep a diary; rather the focus should be on ensuring that an AR recording process (whether diary or otherwise) is locally owned and complements the specific practice setting.
Solar spectrum matching using monochromatic LEDs
Authors: Xu G-Q , Zhang J-H , Cao G-Y , Xing M-S , Li D-S , Yu J-J
Published: February 2016

The possibility of a spectrally tunable solar-like light source is drawing attention with the development of LEDs. We researched the market of high-power, monochromatic LEDs and established a database with 103 kinds of LED by a new model. We used the database to match the solar spectrum in the wavelength range 380–780 nm. The optimal combination maximising the fit to the solar spectral curve was obtained. The trade-off relationship between the selection of LEDs and the fit was investigated in detail. The results show that the optimal combination contains 34 types of LED with a maximum correlation index R2 of 88.67%. The value of R2 reduces to 85.06% when the number of LED types is reduced to 20, but the R2 value decreases sharply if the number of LED types is decreased to 16, with a R2 of 79.97%.
A Theory-Integrated Model of Medical Diagnosis
Authors: Nystrom Daniel T. , Williams Linda , Paull Douglas E. , Graber Mark L. , Hemphill Robin R.
Published: February 2016

Recent research investigating diagnosis has generally relied upon one of two approaches to categorize and assess the antecedents of diagnostic error: (a) describing diagnostic error as a result of flaws in human cognition or (b) explaining diagnostic error as a result of working with complex health information systems. Each approach has uncovered important features that promote diagnostic error. However, each approach has inherent limitations, and integrating results from one approach to the other has proved difficult. In the current study, a cognitive engineering technique known as work domain analysis was implemented to provide a framework for uncovering the relationship between diagnosis, complex health systems, and theories of cognition and reasoning. The resulting model of diagnosis provides a comprehensive, novel perspective of the diagnostic process that offers a new foundation to formulate empirical inquiries about diagnosis and provides new avenues for the design and development of health information technologies, assessment strategies, and diagnosis-centered simulation paradigms.
Classic cases revisited: Mr David James, futile interventions and conflict in the ICU
Authors: Szawarski Piotr
Published: February 2016

The technology so prevalent in the modern healthcare setting often creates an illusion that the biological certainty of death can somehow be evaded. Increasing number of deaths worldwide occurs in hospitals, and doctors by necessity inherit the role traditionally owned by priests, in overseeing the dying process. Unrealistic expectations concerning cure or indeed different perceptions of patient’s interests on a background of deficient communication can lead to conflict. The case of David James illustrates conflict arising in the context of critical illness where further life-sustaining interventions were deemed to be futile. Futility and conflict in context of critical illness are discussed along with the legal judgements pertaining to the case of David James.
Friends With Moral Credentials
Authors: Thai Michael , Hornsey Matthew J. , Barlow Fiona Kate
Published: February 2016

People commonly reference minority friendships when expressing conceivably prejudiced attitudes. The prevalence of this strategy suggests a widespread belief that having minority friends makes one look less racist, but to date, there is little research demonstrating whether or not this is the case. White and Asian participants were presented with a Facebook profile depicting a White target who posted an anti-Asian statement. Being depicted with Asian friends (Study 1) or even verbally claiming that they had Asian friends (Study 2) reduced attributions of racism irrespective of whether they were being evaluated by White or Asian observers. Furthermore, the presence of Asian friends made the conceivably racist comments seem relatively benign, and observers were less offended and upset by them. The data suggest that minority friendships can partially offset costs associated with expressing prejudice.
Flow-diverter devices in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms: A meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Lv Xianli , Yang Hongchao , Liu Peng , Li Youxiang
Published: February 2016

Objective

The purpose of this report was to discuss the overall limitations, safety and efficacy of flow-diverter stenting for intracranial aneurysms.

Methods

The authors performed a meta-analysis from January 2009 to September 2014 using the terms “flow diverter” and “intracranial aneurysms.” Additional studies were identified through references in each reviewed article. Data extraction, performed independently by the authors, included demographic data, technical and clinical complications, morbidity and mortality, aneurismal occlusion rates related to flow-diverter devices. The analysis was performed using a fixed effect.

Results

Twenty-nine studies with 1524 patients and three to 62 months of follow-up were identified for analysis. The overall technical failure and complication rate was 9.3% (95% CI 6%–12.6%). The rate of procedure-related complication was 14% (95% CI 10.2%–17.9%) and 6.6% (95% CI 4%–9.1%) for morbidity and mortality. Fusiform, dissecting and circumferential aneurysm (OR 3.10, 95% CI 0.93–10.37) were significant risk factors for technical failure and complication. Posterior circulation location (OR 4.03, 95% CI 2.45–6.61), peripheral location (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.52–4.94) and fusiform, dissecting and circumferential aneurysm (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.15–3.30) were statistically significant risk factors for procedure-related complications. Posterior circulation location (OR 4.39, 95% CI 2.44–7.90) and peripheral location (OR 3.64, 95% CI 1.74–7.62) were statistically significant risk factors for morbidity and mortality.

Conclusions

Fusiform, dissecting and circumferential aneurysm, posterior circulation and peripheral locations have greater procedure-related complications.
Hyperintense perilesional edema in the brain on T1-weighted images: Cavernous malformation or metastatic melanoma? Three case reports and literature review
Authors: Sarbu Nicolae , Pujol Teresa , Oleaga Laura
Published: February 2016

Hyperintense perilesional edema in brain masses on T1-weighted images (T1WI) is an unusual radiological finding. We report three cases showing this particular type of edema, one representing cerebral hemorrhagic cavernous malformation (CCM, cavernoma) and the other two, metastases of melanoma. The association between this sign and cavernoma was recently recognized. On the other hand, in melanotic lesions, the relationship with T1WI-hyperintense perilesional edema has not yet been described. Despite being an infrequent sign, it can considerably narrow the differential diagnosis, which gives it a high value for clinical practice. Moreover, given the high prevalence of the entities that manifest this imaging feature, it can be occasionally noticed.
Turning water into rock: The inverted waves effect
Authors: Häkkinen Jukka , Gröhn Lauri
Published: February 2016

Humans perceive shape in two-dimensional shaded images, and turning such an image upside down can result in inversion of the relief of this image. Previous research indicates that this inversion is caused by assumptions related to overhead illumination, global convexity and viewpoint above the surface. In our article, we describe the inverted waves effect, in which turning an image of waves upside down changes its relief and also its perceived material properties.
Applying for research funding. Part 1 – sources of funding.
Authors: Nelson Adam W , Gnanapragasam Vincent J
Published: February 2016

Objective:

In this article we summarise sources of research funding, principally for individuals seeking to undertake research for a higher degree at the beginning of their research careers. Features of individual funding schemes are highlighted, along with an overview of the process of applying for research funding. It is intended that this article should be a useful resource for those entering research careers.

Conclusion:

Funding available from the Medical Research Council, Wellcome Trust, National Institute for Health Research, Royal College of Surgeons of England, Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and The Urology Foundation is summarised.
‘Blu-Tack’ as an intravesical foreign body: Overcoming a sticky situation
Authors: Boyle Jemma M , Cleaveland Paul , Mokete Moeketsi
Published: February 2016

Intravesical foreign bodies can pose a significant urological challenge. An unusual intravesical foreign body described within the literature is ‘Blu-Tack’. This unique material with its distinct physical properties presents a particular challenge in its management. We describe our novel endoscopic approach to the removal of an intravesical ‘Blu-Tack’ mass and suggest this method as a means of facilitating successful extraction of this particular foreign body.
International Newspaper Coverage of the 2013 EuroBasket for Men
Authors: Ličen Simon , Lončar Mateja , Delorme Nicolas , Horky Thomas , Jakubowska Honorata
Published: February 2016

This study examines international newspaper coverage of the 2013 European Basketball Championship for men. Generalist broadsheet newspapers in 13 countries on five continents were examined over the course of 1 year (from August 2012 until September 2013) to understand the amount and content of coverage dedicated to this major event. Results show that the host country, Slovenia, dedicated the most extensive coverage to the EuroBasket, followed by Croatia, a neighboring country. Media interest in other countries was very limited and focused almost exclusively on competitive aspects of the tournament (as opposed to organizational, tourist, or cultural angles). Of the newspapers examined, only five covered the event in the months leading up to it and only four reported the final outcome of the tournament. Generalist broadsheets thus displayed limited interest in the competition, contradicting organizers’ assertions and popular belief of widespread promotional and economic benefits deriving from the event. Newspapers from countries that fielded teams at the event overwhelmingly focused on their performances. As setters of the public agenda, mainstream broadsheets exhibit very limited interest in the myriad major sports events organized worldwide. Hosting such events are not by default the promotional and economic boon organizers argue and the public believes.
Party system nationalisation in Sub-Saharan Africa: Empirical evidence and an explanatory model
Authors: Golosov Grigorii V
Published: February 2016

This article draws on a sample of recent legislative elections held in 43 countries of Sub-Saharan Africa in order to empirically estimate and explain the levels of party system nationalisation. The analysis demonstrates that the overall level of party system nationalisation in Africa is relatively low, but in this respect, Africa displays little difference from other developing regions of the eastern hemisphere. Within the set of explanatory variables, an important role is played by ethno-linguistic fractionalisation. However, the explanatory power of this factor is rather limited. A model of party system nationalisation, including electoral system effects, party system fragmentation and political regime characteristics, such as authoritarianism and presidentialism, is proposed and empirically validated. The model demonstrates that while the joint impact of the identified explanatory factors is strong and consistent, none of them can be singled out as the crucial determinant of party system nationalisation in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Negative Relationship between Size and the Probability of Weekly Attendance in Churches in the United States
Authors: Eagle David
Published: February 2016

Are people less likely to attend large churches? Using nationally representative data, I find a negative relationship between size and the probability of attendance for Conservative, Mainline, and black Protestants and for Catholics in parishes larger than 500 attenders. The addition of control variables does not change these patterns. These results support the theory that group cohesion lies at the heart of the size-participation relationship in churches. With the rapid growth of megachurches in the United States, a negative relationship between size and frequency of attendance could serve to accelerate aggregate declines in attendance. Methodologically, this article demonstrates how Bayesian hierarchical models can handle complex data structures and imputation procedures in a unified model.
An experimental study of the intrinsic stability of random forest variable importance measures
Authors: Wang Huazhen , Yang Fan , Luo Zhiyuan
Published: February 2016

Background

The stability of Variable Importance Measures (VIMs) based on random forest has recently received increased attention. Despite the extensive attention on traditional stability of data perturbations or parameter variations, few studies include influences coming from the intrinsic randomness in generating VIMs, i.e. bagging, randomization and permutation. To address these influences, in this paper we introduce a new concept of intrinsic stability of VIMs, which is defined as the self-consistence among feature rankings in repeated runs of VIMs without data perturbations and parameter variations. Two widely used VIMs, i.e., Mean Decrease Accuracy (MDA) and Mean Decrease Gini (MDG) are comprehensively investigated. The motivation of this study is two-fold. First, we empirically verify the prevalence of intrinsic stability of VIMs over many real-world datasets to highlight that the instability of VIMs does not originate exclusively from data perturbations or parameter variations, but also stems from the intrinsic randomness of VIMs. Second, through Spearman and Pearson tests we comprehensively investigate how different factors influence the intrinsic stability.

Results

The experiments are carried out on 19 benchmark datasets with diverse characteristics, including 10 high-dimensional and small-sample gene expression datasets. Experimental results demonstrate the prevalence of intrinsic stability of VIMs. Spearman and Pearson tests on the correlations between intrinsic stability and different factors show that #feature (number of features) and #sample (size of sample) have a coupling effect on the intrinsic stability. The synthetic indictor, #feature/#sample, shows both negative monotonic correlation and negative linear correlation with the intrinsic stability, while OOB accuracy has monotonic correlations with intrinsic stability. This indicates that high-dimensional, small-sample and high complexity datasets may suffer more from intrinsic instability of VIMs. Furthermore, with respect to parameter settings of random forest, a large number of trees is preferred. No significant correlations can be seen between intrinsic stability and other factors. Finally, the magnitude of intrinsic stability is always smaller than that of traditional stability.

Conclusion

First, the prevalence of intrinsic stability of VIMs demonstrates that the instability of VIMs not only comes from data perturbations or parameter variations, but also stems from the intrinsic randomness of VIMs. This finding gives a better understanding of VIM stability, and may help reduce the instability of VIMs. Second, by investigating the potential factors of intrinsic stability, users would be more aware of the risks and hence more careful when using VIMs, especially on high-dimensional, small-sample and high complexity datasets.
Aurora kinase targeting in lung cancer reduces KRAS-induced transformation
Authors: dos Santos Edmilson Ozorio , Carneiro-Lobo Tatiana Correa , Aoki Mateus Nobrega , Levantini Elena , Bassères Daniela Sanchez
Published: February 2016

Background

Activating mutations in KRAS are prevalent in lung cancer and have been causally linked to the oncogenic process. However, therapies targeted to oncogenic RAS have been ineffective to date and identification of KRAS targets that impinge on the oncogenic phenotype is warranted. Based on published studies showing that mitotic kinases Aurora A (AURKA) and B (AURKB) cooperate with oncogenic RAS to promote malignant transformation and that AURKA phosphorylates RAS effector pathway components, the aim of this study was to investigate whether AURKA and AURKB are KRAS targets in lung cancer and whether targeting these kinases might be therapeutically beneficial.

Methods

In order to determine whether oncogenic KRAS induces Aurora kinase expression, we used qPCR and western blotting in three different lung cell-based models of gain- or loss-of-function of KRAS. In order to determine the functional role of these kinases in KRAS-induced transformation, we generated KRAS-positive A549 and H358 cells with stable and inducible shRNA-mediated knockdown of AURKA or AURKB and evaluated transformation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. In order to validate AURKA and/or AURKB as therapeutically relevant KRAS targets in lung cancer, we treated A549 and H358 cells, as well as two different lung cell based models of gain-of-function of KRAS with a dual Aurora kinase inhibitor and performed functional in vitro assays.

Results

We determined that KRAS positively regulates AURKA and AURKB expression. Furthermore, in KRAS-positive H358 and A549 cell lines, inducible knockdown of AURKA or AURKB, as well as treatment with a dual AURKA/AURKB inhibitor, decreased growth, viability, proliferation, transformation, and induced apoptosis in vitro. In addition, inducible shRNA-mediated knockdown of AURKA in A549 cells decreased tumor growth in vivo. More importantly, dual pharmacological inhibiton of AURKA and AURKB reduced growth, viability, transformation, and induced apoptosis in vitro in an oncogenic KRAS-dependent manner, indicating that Aurora kinase inhibition therapy can specifically target KRAS-transformed cells.

Conclusions

Our results support our hypothesis that Aurora kinases are important KRAS targets in lung cancer and suggest Aurora kinase inhibition as a novel approach for KRAS-induced lung cancer therapy.
MiR-302a/b/c/d cooperatively sensitizes breast cancer cells to adriamycin via suppressing P-glycoprotein(P-gp) by targeting MAP/ERK kinase kinase 1 (MEKK1)
Authors: Zhao Lin , Wang Yan , Jiang Longyang , He Miao , Bai Xuefeng , Yu Lifeng , Wei Minjie
Published: February 2016

Background

The importance of individual microRNAs (miRNAs) in tumor has been established in different cancers. However, their association with tumor chemoresistance has not been fully understood. Previously, we found two novel MDR-associated microRNAs (miRNAs). In this report, we investigated the combined effects of miRNA gene cluster in chemoresistance of breast cancer.

Methods

This study was performed in two different breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MCF-7/ADR). The levels of miRNAs and mRNA expression were determined by using Quantitative Real-Time PCR. Western blotting was used to detect the levels of protein molecules. Cell viability was assessed by MTS assay. Bioinformatics and Luciferase reporter assay was performed to examine miRNA binding to the 3′-UTR of target genes.

Results

The miR-302S family including miR-302a, miR-302b, miR-302c, and miR-302d was significantly down-regulated in P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-overexpressing MCF-7/ADR cells. Overexpression of miR-302 increased intracellular accumulation of ADR and sensitized breast cancer cells to ADR. Most importantly, miR-302S produced stronger effects than each individual member alone. The four miRNAs cooperatively downregulate P-gp expression in regulating drug sensitivity. However, our results showed that the suppression of P-gp expression by miR-302 is not through typical miRNA-mediated mRNA degradation but at the level of protein and transcription. Further studies identified MAP/ERK kinase kinase 1 (MEKK1) as a direct and functional target of miR-302. miR-302 showed combinatorial effects on MKEE1 repression and MEKK1-mediated ERK pathway. The suppression of P-gp by miR-302 was reversed by MEKK1 overexpression.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that miR-302 cooperatively sensitizes breast cancer cells to adriamycin via suppressing P-glycoprotein by targeting MEKK1 of ERK pathway. miR-302 gene cluster may be a potential target for reversing P-gp-mediated chemoresistance in breast cancer.
Journal of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery reviewer acknowledgement 2015
Authors: Seikaly Hadi , Wright Erin
Published: February 2016

Contributing reviewers

The Editors of Journal of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery would like to thank all our reviewers who have contributed their time and expertise to the journal in Volume 44 (2015).
The late and dual origin of cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons in the mouse spinal cord
Authors: Petracca Yanina L. , Sartoretti Maria Micaela , Di Bella Daniela J. , Marin-Burgin Antonia , Carcagno Abel L. , Schinder Alejandro F. , Lanuza Guillermo M.
Published: February 2016

Considerable progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms that control the production of specialized neuronal types. However, how the timing of differentiation contributes to neuronal diversity in the developing spinal cord is still a pending question. In this study, we show that CerebroSpinal Fluid-contacting Neurons (CSF-cNs), an anatomically discrete cell type of the ependymal area, originate from surprisingly late neurogenic events in the ventral spinal cord. CSF-cNs are identified by the expression of the transcription factors Gata2 and Gata3, and the ionic channels PKD2L1 and PKD1L2. Contrasting with Gata2/3+ V2b interneurons, CSF-cNs differentiation is independent of Foxn4 and takes place during advanced developmental stages previously assumed to be exclusively gliogenic. CSF-cNs are produced from two distinct dorso-ventral regions of the mouse spinal cord. Most CSF-cNs derive from progenitors circumscribed to the late-p2 and the oligodendrogenic (pOL) domains, whereas a second subset of CSF-cNs arises from cells bordering the floor plate. The development of these two subgroups of CSF-cNs is differentially controlled by Pax6, they adopt separate locations around the postnatal central canal and display electrophysiological differences. Our results highlight that spatio-temporal mechanisms are instrumental in creating neural cell diversity in the ventral spinal cord to produce distinct classes of interneurons, motoneurons, CSF-cNs, glial and ependymal cells.
A peptidylic inhibitor-based therapeutic approach that simultaneously suppresses RNA- and protein-mediated toxicities in polyglutamine diseases
Authors: Zhang Qian , Tsoi Ho , Peng Shaohong , Li Pan P. , Lau Kwok-Fai , Rudnicki Dobrila D. , Ngo Jacky Chi-Ki , Chan Ho Yin Edwin
Published: February 2016

Polyglutamine (polyQ) diseases represent a group of progressive neurodegenerative disorders that are caused by abnormal expansion of CAG triplet nucleotides in disease genes. Recent evidence indicates that not only mutant polyQ protein, but also their corresponding mutant RNAs contribute to the pathogenesis of polyQ diseases. Here, we describe the identification of a 13-amino acid peptide, P3, which binds directly and preferentially to long CAG RNA within the pathogenic range. When administered to cell and animal disease models, as well as to patient-derived fibroblasts, P3 inhibited expanded CAG RNA-induced nucleolar stress and suppressed neurotoxicity. We further examined the combined therapeutic effect of P3 and polyQ-binding peptide 1 (QBP1), a well-characterized polyQ protein toxicity inhibitor, on neurodegeneration. When P3 and QBP1 were co-administered to disease models, both RNA and protein toxicities were effectively mitigated, resulting in a notable improvement of neurotoxicity suppression compared with the P3 and QBP1 single treatment controls. Our findings indicate that targeting toxic RNAs and/or simultaneous targeting of toxic RNAs and their corresponding proteins may open up a new therapeutic strategy for treating polyQ degeneration.
Forty Years of Oil Price Fluctuations: Why the Price of Oil May Still Surprise Us
Authors: Baumeister Christiane , Kilian Lutz
Published: February 2016

It has been 40 years since the oil crisis of 1973/74. This crisis has been one of the defining economic events of the 1970s and has shaped how many economists think about oil price shocks. In recent years, a large literature on the economic determinants of oil price fluctuations has emerged. Drawing on this literature, we first provide an overview of the causes of all major oil price fluctuations between 1973 and 2014. We then discuss why oil price fluctuations remain difficult to predict, despite economists’ improved understanding of oil markets. Unexpected oil price fluctuations are commonly referred to as oil price shocks. We document that, in practice, consumers, policymakers, financial market participants, and economists may have different oil price expectations, and that, what may be surprising to some, need not be equally surprising to others.
The IMF’s Unmet Challenges
Authors: Eichengreen Barry , Woods Ngaire
Published: February 2016

The International Monetary Fund is a controversial institution whose interventions regularly provoke passionate reactions. We will argue that there is an important role for the IMF in helping to solve information, commitment, and coordination problems with significant implications for the stability of national economies and the international monetary and financial system. In executing these functions, the effectiveness of the IMF, like that of a football referee, depends on whether the players see it as competent and impartial. We will argue that the Fund’s perceived competence and impartiality, and hence its effectiveness, are limited by its failure to meet four challenges—concerning the quality of it's surveillance (of individual countries, groups of countries, and the global system); the relevance of conditionality in loan contracts; the utility of the Fund’s approach to debt problems; and the Fund’s failure to adopt a system of governance that gives appropriate voice to different stakeholders. These problems of legitimacy will have to be addressed in order for the IMF to play a more effective role in the 21st century.
The International Monetary Fund: 70 Years of Reinvention
Authors: Reinhart Carmen M. , Trebesch Christoph
Published: February 2016

A sketch of the International Monetary Fund’s 70-year history reveals an institution that has reinvented itself over time along multiple dimensions. This history is primarily consistent with a “demand driven” theory of institutional change, as the needs of its clients and the type of crisis changed substantially over time. Some deceptively “new” IMF activities are not entirely new. Before emerging market economies dominated IMF programs, advanced economies were its earliest (and largest) clients through the 1970s. While currency problems were the dominant trigger of IMF involvement in the earlier decades, banking crises and sovereign defaults became the key focus after the 1980s. Around this time, the IMF shifted from providing relatively brief (and comparatively modest) balance-of-payments support in the era of fixed exchange rates to coping with more chronic debt sustainability problems that emerged with force in the developing economies and have now migrated to advanced economies. As a consequence, the IMF has engaged in “serial lending,” with programs often spanning decades. Moreover, the institution faces a growing risk of lending into insolvency; this has been most evident in Greece since 2010. We conclude with the observation that the IMF’s role as an international lender of last resort is endangered.
Distribusi mikroplastik pada sedimen di Muara Badak, Kabupaten Kutai Kartanegara
Authors: Sari Dewi Intan , Aditya Budiarsa Anugrah , Ramadhan Ritonga Irwan
Published: February 2016

Abstract. The distribution of microplastic was studied in the Muara Badak districts Kutai Kartanegara regency in May 2015. Sediment samples were taken from four stations that represent residential, in mangrove, near the beach and away from residential areas. Sediment samples were taken using the pipe at a depth of 0-10 cm - 10-20 cm, then the observed and calculated abundance of microplastic. The results showed that the type microplastic found is a fragment, film and fiber. At Station 1 found fragments about 100.2-201.3 particle/kg, the film about 69.6-79.9 particles/kg and fiber  about 43.1-50.9 particles/kg, the stations 2 found of fragments about 146.5-238.8 particle/kg, the film about 53.2-81.9 particles/kg and fiber about 48.8-75.5 particles/kg, stations 3 found of fragments about 204.2-207.9 particles/kg, the film about 107.7-126.5 particle/kg and fiber about 26.1-39.9 particles/kg, station 4 found of fragments about 167.6-220 particle/kg, the film about 59.7-69.5 particle/ kg and fiber about 47.5-55.3 particles/kg. Keywords: Depth; Microplastic; Muara Badak; Sediment  Abstrak. Distribusi mikroplastik diteliti di Kecamatan Muara Badak Kabupaten Kutai Kartanegara pada bulan Mei 2015. Sampel sedimen diambil dari 4 stasiun yang mewakili pemukiman penduduk, dekat sungai, dekat pantai dan jauh dari pemukiman penduduk. Sampel sedimen diambil menggunakan pipa paralon pada kedalaman 0-10 cm – 10-20 cm, kemudian diamati dan dihitung kelimpahan mikroplastik. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa jenis mikroplastik yang ditemukan adalah fragmen, film dan fiber. Pada stasiun 1 ditemukan fragmen berkisar 100,2-201,3 partikel/kg, film berkisar 69,6-79,9 partikel/kg dan fiber berkisar 43,1-50,9 partikel/kg, stasiun 2 ditemukan fragmen berkisar 146,5-238,8 partikel/kg, film berkisar 53,2-81,9 partikel/kg dan fiber berkisar 48,8-75,2 partikel/kg, stasiun 3 ditemukan fragmen berkisar 204,2-207,9 partikel/kg, film berkisar 107,7-126,5 partikel/kg dan fiber berkisar 26,1-39,9 partikel/kg, stasiun 4 ditemukan fragmen berkisar 167,6-220 partikel/kg, film berkisar  59,7-69,5partikel/kg dan fiber berkisar 47,5-55,3 partikel/kg.Kata kunci:  Kedalaman; Mikroplastik; Muara Badak; Sedimen
La depresión en la vejez: un importante problema de salud en México
Authors: Rivera Navarro Jesús , Benito-León Julián , Pazzi Olazarán Karla Amalia
Published: February 2016

La depresión es una enfermedad que tiene un impacto especialmente preocupante en la vejez por el incremento de factores precipitantes de enfermedades en esta etapa de la vida. En México, aún hay pocos estudios poblacionales que estudien la depresión en la senectud. Los objetivos de nuestro estudio son: 1) estimar la prevalencia de síntomas depresivos en el adulto mayor; 2) analizar la asociación entre síntomas depresivos y diferentes factores favorecedores de la depresión; y 3) reflexionar en qué sentido los resultados de este trabajo pueden contribuir a la mejora de las políticas de salud en México. La investigación es poblacional y transversal y se realizó en Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas. Se estudió a 1.126 personas mayores (455 hombres y 671 mujeres), que suponían aproximadamente el 5,1% de toda la población mayor de Ciudad Victoria en el momento de realización del estudio. La depresión fue medida mediante la escala Geriatric Depression Scale. Los resultados indican que: 1) la prevalencia de síntomas depresivos se sitúa en un 29%; y 2) los factores favorecedores de la depresión fueron la dependencia en actividades de la vida diaria, el deterioro cognitivo, la falta de apoyo social, la edad, el sexo, la soledad, la pobreza, los eventos estresantes y la percepción subjetiva de salud. La reducción de la depresión no sólo está vinculada a la mejora de aspectos relacionados con la salud, sino a la mejora de las condiciones de vida de los ancianos.
Factores de riesgo de la dependencia funcional en las personas mayores chilenas y consecuencias en el cuidado informal
Authors: Cheix Dieguez María Consuelo , Herrera Ponce María Soledad , Fernández Lorca María Beatriz , Barros Lezaeta Carmen
Published: February 2016

A partir de la Encuesta Nacional de Dependencia en Personas Mayores en Chile del año 2009, se caracteriza a las personas dependientes y se aplican modelos de regresión logística multivariada para estimar los factores asociados a experimentar dependencia. Además de la edad y la presencia de enfermedades, hay otros factores que se asocian con mayor prevalencia de dependencia, tales como el nivel educacional, la calidad de las relaciones familiares y la realización de actividades como ejercicio físico o lectura. También se caracteriza y se describe el nivel de bienestar de los cuidadores informales de personas dependientes. El estrés del cuidador informal es expresado tanto por un incremento en los sentimientos depresivos y de sobrecarga, como también por un empeoramiento de la salud física. Los cuidadores suelen ser mujeres, de edad avanzada y con niveles educativos bajos, lo que intensifica aun más el contexto de vulnerabilidad de este grupo.
Envejecimiento, cuidados y política social. Continuidades y cambios en Argentina y México
Authors: Arroyo Rueda María Concepción
Published: February 2016

Este trabajo se propone mostrar, desde una perspectiva comparada de la política social, el otorgamiento de cuidados en la vejez en Argentina y México. Muestra la experiencia de la política nacional de cuidados en Argentina. En este país se realizaron entrevistas a coordinadores, operativos y usuarios del programa nacional de cuidados. Los participantes identifican en la política una visión de derechos e inclusión social de las personas mayores y un apoyo efectivo para las cuidadoras familiares. Por su parte, en el caso de México se observa una escasa y ambigua legislación sobre el tema, predominando la práctica del cuidado informal a las personas adultas mayores, otorgado principalmente por las mujeres en las familias. Los cuidados están fuera de la política de envejecimiento y se circunscriben dentro del «modelo familista», acorde con una exaltada valoración social de la obligación moral del cuidado familiar.
IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF IMAGE FEATURE EXTRACTORS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SLAM SYSTEMS
Authors: Pire Taihú , Fischer Thomas , Faigl Jan
Published: February 2016

This work evaluates an impact of image feature extractors on the performance of a visual SLAM method in terms of pose accuracy and computational requirements. In particular, the S-PTAM (Stereo Parallel Tracking and Mapping) method is considered as the visual SLAM framework for which both the feature detector and feature descriptor are parametrized. The evaluation was performed with a standard dataset with ground-truth information and six feature detectors and four descriptors. The presented results indicate that the combination of the GFTT detector and the BRIEF descriptor provides the best trade-off between the localization precision and computational requirements among the evaluated combinations of the detectors and descriptors.