bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced Left Executive Control Network Functional Connectivity Is Associated with Alcohol Use Disorders
Authors: Weiland Barbara J. , Sabbineni Amithrupa , Calhoun Vince D. , Welsh Robert C. , Bryan Angela D. , Jung Rex E. , Mayer Andrew R. , Hutchison Kent E.
Published: September 2014

Background

Altered functional connectivity in critical networks has been associated with chronic alcohol abuse. In turn, changes in connectivity in executive control networks (ECNs) may undermine the ability to control alcohol consumption. It was hypothesized that network connectivity would be reduced in individuals with problematic alcohol use (ALC) compared with controls and that diminished network connectivity would be associated with greater failure to control drinking.

Methods

Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging was analyzed to identify 14 previously identified intrinsic connectivity networks (ICNs) using a priori regions of interest in cases ranging from binge drinkers to those with severe alcohol use disorder, as well as control subjects. Analyses tested for differences in network connectivity strength between 255 ALC cases and 87 age‐ and gender‐matched controls. Further, structural equation analysis, using 383 ALC cases, tested whether functional connectivity strength mediated the relationship between years of regular drinking and alcohol problems.

Results

The age‐ and gender‐matched analysis showed that ALC had significantly lower network connectivity strength than controls in the left executive control (LECN), basal ganglia, and primary visual networks. For all ALC, LECN connectivity strength is negatively correlated with failed control and alcohol disorder severity. Edges connecting parietal regions with dorsolateral prefrontal, middle frontal, and temporal regions within the LECN drove these relationships. A positive association between years of drinking and severity of alcohol problems was mediated by reduced ECN connectivity.

Conclusions

This study reports relationships between network strength and problematic alcohol use, suggesting that chronic drinking negatively impacts brain connectivity, specifically in the LECN. Altered functional connectivity, related to chronic alcohol abuse, may contribute to the etiology of alcohol dependence and relapse.
First Drink to First Drunk: Age of Onset and Delay to Intoxication Are Associated with Adolescent Alcohol Use and Binge Drinking
Authors: Morean Meghan E. , Kong Grace , Camenga Deepa R. , Cavallo Dana A. , Connell Christian , Krishnan‐Sarin Suchitra
Published: September 2014

Background

Quickly progressing from initiating alcohol use to drinking to intoxication recently was identified as a novel risk factor for hazardous drinking in college students (ME Morean et al. [2012] Alcohol Clin Exp Res, 36, 1991–1999). The current study evaluated the risk associated with age of onset (AO) and delay to first intoxication (Delay) in a high school sample.

Methods

Adolescent drinkers (N = 295, age 16.29 [1.14], 55.3% female, 80.3% Caucasian, AO = 13.51 [2.29] years, Delay = 0.80 [1.43] years) completed an anonymous survey about their substance use in February of 2010. Self‐report questions assessed AO and age of first intoxication (AI) (i.e., “How old were you the first time you tried alcohol/got drunk?”) and past‐month alcohol use/binge drinking (i.e., How often did you drink alcohol/drink ≥5 drinks?).

Results

Bivariate correlations indicated that AO was positively correlated with AI and inversely correlated with Delay, the frequency of any drinking, and the frequency of binge drinking. When considered alone, Delay was not significantly correlated with either alcohol use outcome. In contrast, hierarchical regression analyses indicated that when considered in concert, an earlier AO and a shorter Delay were each associated with heavier drinking (any drinking adjusted R2 = 0.08; binge drinking R2 = 0.06, p‐values <0.001) beyond demographic characteristics. Two‐way interactions among study variables were nonsignificant, suggesting that AO and Delay conferred risk similarly by racial/ethnic status, gender, and grade in high school.

Conclusions

When considered simultaneously, both an early AO and a quick progression to drinking to intoxication appear to be important determinants of high school student drinking. In addition to continuing efforts to postpone AO, efforts designed to delay intoxication may modulate alcohol‐related risk associated with early drinking.
Determinants of the levels and changes in non‐executive director compensation
Authors: Bugeja Martin , Fohn Stephanie , Matolcsy Zoltan
Published: September 2014

This study examines the economic and director‐specific determinants of non‐executive director (NED) compensation in the Australian setting. We find that NED compensation is associated with firm size, complexity, growth, risk and liquidity. It is also associated with director reputation, experience, connectedness and the directors' involvement with the firm. The additional compensation paid to the chairperson is positively associated with their prior experience and negatively associated with NED reputation and involvement. We find inconclusive evidence on the association between changes in NED compensation and firm performance.
The Nature and Value of Bioethics Expertise
Authors: Vogelstein Eric
Published: September 2014

In this article, I address the extent to which experts in bioethics can contribute to healthcare delivery by way of aid in clinical decision‐making and policy‐formation. I argue that experts in bioethics are moral experts, in that their substantive moral views are more likely to be correct than those of non‐bioethicists, all else being equal, but that such expertise is of use in a relatively limited class of cases. In so doing, I respond to two recent arguments against the view that bioethicists are moral experts, one by Christopher Cowley and another by David Archard. I further argue that bioethics experts have significant additional contributions to make to healthcare delivery, and highlight a hitherto neglected aspect of that contribution: amelioration of moral misconception among clinicians. I describe in detail several aspects of moral misconception, and show how the bioethicist is in a prime position to resolve that sort of error.
Against Harmful Research on Non‐Agreeing Children
Authors: Chwang Eric
Published: September 2014

The Code of Federal Regulations permits harmful research on children who have not agreed to participate, but I will argue that it should be no more permissive of harmful research on such children than of harmful research on adults who have not agreed to participate. Of course, the Code permits harmful research on adults. Such research is not morally problematic, however, because adults must agree to participate. And, of course, the Code also permits beneficial research on children without needing their explicit agreement. This sort of research is also not problematic, this time because paternalism towards children may be justifiable. The moral problem at the center of this paper arises from the combination of two potential properties of pediatric research, first that it might be harmful and second that its subjects might not agree to participate.

In Section 2 of this article I explain how the Code permits harmful research on non‐agreeing children. Section 3 contains my argument that we should no more permit harmful research on non‐agreeing children than on non‐agreeing adults. In Section 4, I argue that my thesis does not presuppose that pediatric assent has the same moral force that adult consent does. In Section 5, I argue that the distinction between non‐voluntary and involuntary research is irrelevant to my thesis. In Section 6, I rebut an objection based on the power of parental permission. In Section 7 I suggest how the Code of Federal Regulations might be changed.
With great control comes great responsibility: The relationship between perceived academic control, student responsibility, and self‐regulation
Authors: Fishman Evan J.
Published: September 2014

Background

Students' perceived control over academic outcomes has been linked to their use of self‐regulated strategies. However, students’ sense of responsibility, or internal commitment to produce such outcomes, has not often been considered in this relationship.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between perceived academic control (PAC), student responsibility (SR), and knowledge building (KB).

Sample

Participants were 152 undergraduate students enrolled in an educational technology course.

Methods

An exploratory factor analysis was conducted to demonstrate the distinction between the PAC and SR constructs. A series of regression analyses were conducted to address the research hypotheses, and a bootstrap test was used to assess the mediating role of SR in the relationship between the PAC variables and KB.

Results

Initial evidence regarding the uniqueness of the PAC and SR constructs was provided. PAC (both primary control and secondary control [SC]) were positively and significantly related to SR. KB was positively and significantly related to SR, as was SC. Additionally, SR partially mediated the relationship between the PAC variables and KB.

Conclusions

The findings showed that those who perceived the capability to achieve academic outcomes were more likely to feel internally obligated to produce such outcomes. The same was true for students who perceived the capability to psychologically adjust to academic situations. The results also demonstrated that students’ sense of responsibility for academic outcomes played a partially mediating role in the relationship between their perceptions of control and reported use of self‐regulated behaviour.
In vitro TNF blockade enhances ex vivo expansion of regulatory T cells in patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Zhong Hui , Bussel James , Yazdanbakhsh Karina
Published: September 2014

Tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF) is an inflammatory cytokine that is elevated in a number of autoimmune diseases including immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), a bleeding disorder characterized by low platelet counts. In vitro TNF blockade increases expansion of the regulatory T cell (Treg) IKZF2 (also termed Helios) subset in T cell‐monocyte cocultures from healthy donors, but its role on proliferative responses of Tregs in ITP patients, who have altered immunoregulatory compartment, remains unclear. TNF in CD4+ T cells from patients with chronic ITP were elevated and negatively correlated with peripheral Treg frequencies, suggesting a possible inhibitory effect of TNF on ITP Tregs. In vitro antibody neutralization with anti‐TNF in T cell‐monocyte cocultures resulted in a robust expansion of pre‐existing ITP Tregs, higher than in healthy controls. Similar to the effects of anti‐TNF antibodies, TNF blockade with antibodies against TNFRSF1B (anti‐TNFRSF1B, previously termed anti‐TNFRII) almost doubled ITP Treg expansion whereas neutralization with anti‐TNFRSF1A (anti‐TNFRI) antibodies had no effect on proliferative responses of Tregs. In addition, TNFRSF1B levels on ITP Tregs were significantly elevated, which may explain the increased susceptibility of patient Tregs to the actions of TNF blockade. Altogether, these data raise the possibility that TNF blockers, through their ability to increase Treg proliferation, may be efficacious in ITP patients.
A prospective trial of temporary sacral nerve stimulation for constipation associated with neurological disease
Authors: Khan U. , Mason J. M. , Mecci M. , Yiannakou Y.
Published: September 2014

Aim

This study assessed the effectiveness of temporary sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in patients with constipation associated with neurological disease using an off–on–off design, and evaluated the long‐term response in patients undergoing permanent SNS.

Method

Patients with chronic constipation associated with neurological disease receiving specialist clinic care at the University Hospital North Durham over a 2‐year period were recruited to a trial of SNS. Recordings of bowel function were made for 6 weeks (baseline) and a temporary electrode was then inserted and recordings were made for the next 3 weeks (stimulation). The electrodes were then removed and assessment was continued for a further 3 weeks (posttreatment). Patient‐completed questionnaires were used to determine the severity of constipation (Global Assessment of Symptoms, Constipation, GA Constipation), symptoms (Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms score, PAC‐SYM) and quality‐of‐life (Patient Assessment of Constipation–Quality Of Life score, PAC‐QOL; European Quality of Life–Five‐Domain score; European Quality of Life–Visual Analogue Score). Information was obtained on bowel function and medication. Physiological data were also available for transit and laser Doppler flow cytometry to measure mucosal blood flow.

Results

Twenty‐two patients were recruited, of whom 18 completed the trial. GA Constipation reduced significantly during temporary SNS: −1.09 (95% CI −1.59 to −0.59; P = 0.0003). PAC‐SYM and PAC‐QOL scores showed similar improvements. There was also a significant fall in the time spent in the toilet (P = 0.04) and a decrease in laxative use (P = 0.03). Twelve (67%) patients responded to temporary SNS and received a permanent implant with long‐term success in 50%.

Conclusion

Sacral nerve stimulation can be effective in treating some patients with refractory severe neuroconstipation. A response to temporary SNS may predict long‐term benefit in only half the patients undergoing permanent SNS.
Emergency double‐balloon enteroscopy combined with real‐time viewing of capsule endoscopy: A feasible combined approach in acute overt‐obscure gastrointestinal bleeding?
Authors: Pérez‐Cuadrado Robles Enrique , Bebia Conesa Paloma , Esteban Delgado Pilar , Zamora Nava Luis E. , Martínez Andrés Blanca , Rodrigo Agudo Jose L. , López Higueras Antonio , López Martin Aurelio , Latorre Rafael , Soria Federico , Pérez‐Cuadrado Martínez Enrique
Published: September 2014

Background and Aim

There are few data concerning emergency double‐balloon enteroscopy (DBE) and its usefulness in the management of severe acute obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB). The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate emergency DBE and capsule endoscopy (CE) in patients with overt OGIB, analyzing the feasibility of this combined approach.

Methods

Emergency DBE in patients with overt OGIB was defined as performance within 24 h of symptom onset. We reported 27 patients (16 men, mean age: 64.6 ± 17.9 years) with overt severe bleeding who underwent 29 emergency DBE (22 anterograde, 7 retrograde). Of 27 patients, 16 (59.3%) underwent CE with real time (RT) viewing.

Results

Patients were diagnosed with the following: Dieulafoy's lesion (DL; n = 11, 40.7%), angioectasia (n = 7, 25.9%), tumors (n = 4, 14.8%), diverticulum (n = 3, 11.1%), ulcers (n = 2, 7.4%). We diagnosed 23 lesions amenable to endoscopic hemostasis and successfully treated 21 of them (77.8%). DL detection rate was statistically higher in the emergency DBE group than in OGIB patients with DBE done 24 h after symptom onset (40.7% vs 0.9%, respectively, P < 0.001). Combined approach with RT viewing by CE correctly modified DBE management in four patients (25%).

Conclusions

Emergency DBE is feasible, safe and effective in acute OGIB and may avoid major surgery, diagnosing and successfully treating most patients. Combined approach with RT viewing by CE is especially useful to identify recurrent bleeding vascular lesions such as DL that may be easily misdiagnosed by non‐emergency DBE.
The use of weighted health‐related Quality of Life scores in people with diabetic macular oedema at baseline in a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Scanlon P. H. , Loftus J. , Starita C. , Stratton I. M.
Published: September 2014

Aims

To examine the relationship between visual acuity in each eye and Quality of Life (QoL) outcomes in people with diabetic macular oedema.

Methods

Cross sectional retrospective analysis of data collected at baseline in 289 people entered into a randomized clinical trial with diabetic macular oedema which investigated the safety and efficacy of a vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor, pegaptanib sodium. At the baseline visit, visual acuity was measured through refraction and using retro‐illuminated modified Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study Log MAR charts, and patient health‐related QoL was determined using the European Quality of Life EQ–5D–3L and the Visual Functioning Questionnaire–25 (NEI–VFQ25). A regression analysis with QoL score from each vision‐related domain as the dependent variable was fitted using linear and quadratic terms of the better and worse eye, age, gender, adjusted for number of concurrent conditions, ethnicity and level of diabetes control.

Results

For all vision‐related QoL domains from NEI–VFQ25 and EQ–5D–3L except ocular pain, both visual acuity in the better‐seeing and the worse‐seeing eye gave a significant increase in correlation coefficient over that obtained from clinical and demographic data. The NEI–VFQ25 correlation was most closely associated with a weighted visual acuity measure of 0.75 in the better and 0.25 in the worse eye or 0.60 in the better and 0.40 in the worse eye.

Conclusions

We recommend that a weighted visual acuity measure from both eyes is considered in future diabetic macular oedema trials.
A Thrombotic Right Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm Causing Acute Myocardial Infarction and Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Polat Nihat , Yildiz Abdulkadir , Yuksel Murat , Acet Halit , Alan Sait
Published: September 2014

Mini‐Abstract

Aneurysm of the sinus of Valsalva (ASV) is an uncommon condition which may be congential or acquired. Here, we describe a case of ASV thrombosis presented with both acute myocardial infarction and acute stroke.
Evaluation of Global Function of the Heart in Scleroderma Patients
Authors: Gerede Demet Menekse , Turhan Sibel , Hural Refika , Acıbuca Aynur , Kucuksahin Orhan , Ozcan Ozgur Ulas , Goksuluk Huseyin , Vurgun Veysel Kutay , Erol Cetin
Published: September 2014

Objective

Scleroderma is a connective tissue disease characterized by diffuse vascular lesions and fibrosis of the skin and major organs including lungs, kidneys, and heart. When cardiac involvement is clinically evident, it is recognized as a poor prognostic factor. The early detection of cardiac involvement in scleroderma would be desirable both for implementation of preventive measures in the early stages of the disease and for optimal treatment.

Methods

Left (LV) and right (RV) ventricular function were examined in 31 scleroderma patients and 21 healthy controls. Conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography was used to evaluate systolic and diastolic function. Systolic indices including systolic (S) velocity, isovolumetric acceleration (IVA), ejection time (ET), and isovolumetric contraction time (IVCT) were measured. Early diastolic (E) velocity, late diastolic (A) velocity, E/A and E’/A’ ratios, isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT), and deceleration time (DT) were the diastolic measurements obtained. Myocardial performance index (Tei index) calculated by 2 different methods was used to assess global ventricular function.

Results

In our study; mitral S velocity, biventricular ET, E’, E/A, E’/A’, RV IVA, LV IVA, and tricuspid S velocity were significantly lower in scleroderma patients. Mitral DT, IVCT, and biventricular IVRT, were significantly higher in scleroderma patients (P < 0.0001). In addition, RV and LV Tei indices were significantly increased in scleroderma patients compared with the control group (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

In scleroderma patients, global function was depressed prior to the onset of clinical symptoms. Biventricular diastolic and systolic function abnormalities were also observed.
Treatment of guttural pouch tympany in foals with transnasalFoley catheter placement
Authors: Caston S. S. , Kersh K. D. , Reinertson E. L. , Cammack S.
Published: September 2014

This case series describes a technique to treat guttural pouch tympany that may be useful to equine practitioners. The objective of this work is to describe the treatment technique, outcome, possible complications and benefits. Data from a retrospective case series obtained by records review and follow‐up with owners and referring veterinarians were used.Foley catheters were placed into the guttural pouch using endoscopic guidance via the nasal passage, the balloon inflated and the catheter sutured to the external nares under tension. Foals were treated successfully with this method and complications were minor. This treatment method is a viable, low‐cost option for guttural pouch tympany in foals.
Infection of the cartilages of the foot
Authors: Smith M. R. W.
Published: September 2014

Infection of the cartilages of the foot is an uncommon condition, occurring usually secondary to wounds just above the coronary band. Effective treatment relies on surgical debridement of necrotic cartilage, but following this the prognosis for complete recovery is good.
Dynamic testing of horseshoe designs at impact on synthetic and dirtThoroughbred racetrack materials
Authors: Mahaffey C. A. , Peterson M. L. , Thomason J. J. , McIlwraith C. W.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

Different horseshoe designs have been developed in an attempt to optimise footing for equine athletes. Horseshoe performance is assumed to be dependent on the surface and gait, but there are limited data on horseshoe performance on different surfaces, independent of gait variation.

Objectives

To quantify the dynamic loading for 3 aluminium racing shoe designs onThoroughbred racetrack surface materials, using a biomechanical surface tester.

Study design

A flat racing plate, a serratedV‐Grip and a shoe with a 6 mm toe grab and 10 mm heel calks were tested on synthetic and dirt surfaces under typical operating conditions of temperature and moisture content for the respective material samples.

Methods

Samples were tested under laboratory conditions, replicating a track surface by compacting material into a latex‐lined mould surrounded by silica sand for representative boundary conditions. Peak loading and loading rates were measured vertically and horizontally (craniocaudal), simulating aspects of primary and secondary impacts of the hoof in a galloping horse.

Results

Maximum vertical and shear loads and loading rates were not significantly different between shoe types, with the exception of a reduced craniocaudal loading rate for theV‐Grip shoe on the synthetic surface. All other statistical significance was related to the surface material.

Conclusions

These 3 different Thoroughbred racing shoes do not have a significant impact on loading and loading rate, with the exception of theV‐Grip shoe on a synthetic surface. Although theV‐Grip may reduce craniocaudal peak load rates in a synthetic material with relatively high wax and/or low oil content, the reduction in load rate is less than the difference found between materials. This study indicates that shoeing has little effect, and that a track's surface material and its preparation have a significant effect on the dynamic loading during the impact phase of the stance.
The where and how of faults, fluids and permeability – insights from fault stepovers, scaling properties and gold mineralisation
Authors: Micklethwaite S. , Ford A. , Witt W. , Sheldon H. A.
Published: September 2014

Fault stepovers are features where the main trace of a fault steps from one segment to the next in either an underlapping or overlapping manner. Stepovers exert a critical influence on crustal permeability and are known to control phenomena such as the migration of hydrocarbons and the location of geothermal fields. In the Kalgoorlie‐Ora Banda greenstone district, Western Australia, we demonstrate a spatial association between stepovers and gold deposits. It is shown that although underlapping stepover geometries are typically rare in fault systems, they are anomalously associated with gold deposits. Further, the along‐strike and across‐strike dimensions of both underlapping and overlapping fault stepovers fit, to a first‐order approximation, the same self‐similar trend. Boundary element modelling of Coulomb failure stress changes is used to explain these observations in terms of damage generated by rupture events on the bounding fault segments and associated aftershock sequences. Our models indicate that a larger region of damage and permeability enhancement is created around underlapping stepovers than around overlapping stepovers. By taking into account both the enhancement and decay of permeability during the seismic cycle, it is estimated that a 5 Moz goldfield could feasibly form in 1–16 earthquake‐aftershock sequences, potentially representing durations of just 10–8000 years. The existence of supergiant gold deposits is evidence that crustal permeability attains transiently high values on the order of 10−12 m2. It should be expected that transient and time‐integrated permeability values have a distinct three‐dimensional structure in continental crust due to stepover‐related channels.
FROM THE CABALA TO THE GLORIFICATION OF WOMAN: AGRIPPA VON NETTESHEIM'S DE NOBILITATE ET PRÆCELLENTIA FŒMINI SEXUS
Authors: Béhar Pierre
Published: September 2014

Agrippa von Nettesheim's De Nobilitate et præcellentia fœmini sexus (1509) is one of the most revolutionary manifestos of the Renaissance, since it not only sets out to demonstrate the superiority of the feminine over the male sex but does so through the cabalistic methods introduced by Johannes Reuchlin in De Verbo mirifico (1494). According to such teaching, the essence of all creatures was to be found in their Hebrew names, bestowed on them by God: so while Adam signifies ‘earth’, Eve's name is linked to the name Yahweh itself, and means ‘life’. Thus God had spoken, and so all further arguments employed by Agrippa – exegetic, moral, aesthetic, legal, medical and other discourses – gain strength from that decisive foundational argument. Agrippa's entire system of proof, not merely his principal argument, is thus diametrically opposed to scholastic tradition: all conventional authorities, from Aristotle onwards, are systematically ignored. Thus Agrippa joined in the querelle des femmes, ignited in the fifteenth century, and adopted many of its arguments in favour of women, but he importantly strengthened them with medical and cabalistic arguments. His work is the first Renaissance treatise whose methods derive so extensively from humanistic‐cabalistic principles.
HOHENZOLLERN WIVES AND A DAUGHTER: DEFINITIONS OF FEMININE DYNASTIC IDENTITY
Authors: Smart Sara
Published: September 2014

The article is concerned with the norms that determine the presentation of dynastic women in the second half of the seventeenth century. It focuses on two wives and a daughter of the electors of Brandenburg, Dorothea (1636–89), second wife of Friedrich Wilhelm, Elisabeth Henriette (1661–83) first wife of Friedrich III, and their daughter Luise Dorothea Sophie (1680–1705). It examines their depiction in occasional writing and seeks to establish whether it is possible to identify a distinctive female Hohenzollern identity and the extent to which conventions, particularly the traditional association of the ‘Landesmutter’ with piety, determine their presentation as feminine ideals. The article concludes with an assessment of the impact of the establishment of the Hohenzollern kingship in Prussia on the presentation of Friedrich's second wife, Sophie Charlotte (1668–1705).
DIE SCHREIBWEISEN DER SOPHIE VON LA ROCHE
Authors: Meise Helga
Published: September 2014

The article analyses the use of three different modes of writing (‘Schreibweisen’) by Sophie von La Roche (1730–1807). It is argued that at the beginning of her literary career La Roche wrote in a comic‐parodistic style, while moral‐didactic and hybrid writing are typical characteristics of her entire œuvre. La Roche's use of moral‐didactic and hybrid modes needs to be seen as one of the reasons for the growing marginalisation of the author at the end of the eighteenth century.
A structural equation model of environmental correlates of adolescent obesity for age and gender groups
Authors: Nesbit K. C. , Kolobe T. H. , Sisson S. B. , Ghement I. R.
Published: September 2014

Background

The relationships between environmental correlates of adolescent obesity are complex and not yet well defined by current research, especially when considering age and gender.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to test a model of proximal (home) and distal (neighbourhood) environmental correlates of obesity for adolescent age and gender groups.

Methods

This was a descriptive, cross‐sectional study, using the 2007 National Survey of Children's Health of 39 542 children ages 11–17 years.

Results

The model fit the data well for early adolescents (ages 11–14 years) (root mean square standard error of approximation [RMSEA] 0.040, 90% confidence interval [CI]: 0.039–0.041; comparative fit index [CFI] 0.947; Tucker‐Lewis index [TLI] 0.929) and middle adolescents (ages 15–17 years) (RMSEA 0.037, 90% CI: 0.036–0.038; CFI 0.052; TLI 0.937). The model also fit the data well for boy adolescents (RMSEA 0.038, 90% CI: 0.037–0.039; CFI 0.951; TLI 0.935) and girl adolescents (RMSEA 0.038, 90% CI: 0.037–0.040; CFI 0.949; TLI 0.932).

Conclusions

All models provide loadings of the environmental correlates of adolescent obesity for specific age and gender groups that can be used for early identification of risks and targeted interventions.
Change in sleep duration and proposed dietary risk factors for obesity in Danish school children
Authors: Hjorth M. F. , Quist J. S. , Andersen R. , Michaelsen K. F. , Tetens I. , Astrup A. , Chaput J.‐P. , Sjödin A.
Published: September 2014

Background

Recent cross‐sectional studies found higher consumption of energy‐dense foods among children with short sleep duration; however, longitudinal studies examining changes in sleep and diet over time are needed.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate prospective associations between changes in objectively measured sleep duration and alterations in proposed dietary risk factors for obesity in 8–11‐year‐old Danish children.

Methods

Four hundred forty‐one children recorded dietary intake during seven consecutive days, along with accelerometer measurements estimating sleep duration at baseline and after ∼200 days.

Results

Baseline sleep duration did not predict changes in dietary intake or vice versa (all P ≥ 0.69). However, 1‐h lower sleep duration was associated with higher intake of added sugar (1.59 E%; P = 0.001) and sugar‐sweetened beverages (0.90 E%; P = 0.002) after 200 days with no change in energy density of the diet (P = 0.78).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that a negative change in sleep duration is associated with higher intakes of sugar containing foods/beverages.
Contemporary outcomes of seminal tract re‐anastomoses for obstructive azoospermia: A nationwide Japanese survey
Authors: Taniguchi Hisanori , Iwamoto Teruaki , Ichikawa Tomohiko , Nagai Atsushi , Okada Hiroshi , Fujisawa Masato , Tsujimura Akira , Shiraishi Koji , Hibi Hatsuki , Nagao Koichi , Iwasaki Akira , Kamba Tomomi , Tomomasa Hiroshi , Takada Shingo , Matsuda Tadashi ,   Male Infertility Surgical Forum in Japan
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To evaluate current outcomes of seminal tract re‐anastomoses in Japan, and to compare them with historical data.

Methods

A total of 213 patients with obstructive azoospermia who underwent seminal tract re‐anastomosis from April 2008 to March 2012 at 25 institutions were enrolled in the present study. The outcomes of the procedure were compared with those reported in a previous multi‐institutional study carried out in 2000.

Results

The percentage of partners aged over 35 years was 37%. A microsurgical double‐layer anastomosis was carried out 83.0% of the time. Sperm were observed in ejaculate postoperatively in 68.9% and 41.5% of patients who underwent a vasovasostomy or a vasoepididymostomy, respectively. Natural conception occurred in 27.5% of patients after a vasectomy and 32.3% of patients with an epididymal obstruction. Except for the ratio of natural conception in patients with vasal obstruction after herniorrhaphies, there were no significant differences in final ratios of sperm appearance and natural conception between the previously reported study and the present study.

Conclusions

Compared with historical data, contemporary seminal tract re‐anastomosis in Japan seems to provide equivalent or better outcomes, depending on the cause of obstruction. Seminal tract re‐anastomosis is a valid treatment option for patients with obstructive azoospermia.
A role for mitochondria in antigen processing and presentation
Authors: Bonifaz Laura C. , Cervantes‐Silva Mariana P. , Ontiveros‐Dotor Elizabeth , López‐Villegas Edgar O. , Sánchez‐García F. Javier
Published: September 2014

Immune synapse formation is critical for T‐lymphocyte activation, and mitochondria have a role in this process, by localizing close to the immune synapse, regulating intracellular calcium concentration, and providing locally required ATP. The interaction between antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) and T lymphocytes is a two‐way signalling process. However, the role of mitochondria in APCs during this process remains unknown. For APCs to be able to activate T lymphocytes, they must first engage in an antigen‐uptake, ‐processing and ‐presentation process. Here we show that hen egg white lysozyme (HEL) ‐loaded B lymphocytes, as a type of APC, undergo a small but significant mitochondrial depolarization by 1–2 hr following antigen exposure, suggesting an increase in their metabolic demands. Inhibition of ATP synthase (oligomycin) or mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU) (Ruthenium red) had no effect on antigen uptake. Therefore, antigen processing and antigen presentation were further analysed. Oligomycin treatment reduced the amount of specific MHC–peptide complexes but not total MHC II on the cell membrane of B lymphocytes, which correlated with a decrease in antigen presentation. However, oligomycin also reduced antigen presentation by B lymphocytes, which endogenously express HEL and by B lymphocytes loaded with the HEL48–62 peptide, although to a lesser extent. ATP synthase inhibition and MCU inhibition had a clear inhibitory effect on antigen processing (DQ‐OVA). Taken together these results suggest that ATP synthase and MCU are relevant for antigen processing and presentation. Finally, APC mitochondria were found to re‐organize towards the APC–T immune synapse.
Limitations to equality: Gender stereotypes and social change
Authors: Smith Sophie
Published: September 2014

Gender stereotyping remains entrenched in society in terms of both social behaviours and biological determinism. This, argues Sophie Smith, is holding back effective legislative change. Are slow and incremental shifts in consciousness, and therefore in the workplace, really the best we can hope for?
Keeping the Tories united: Cameron's struggle to fight the battle without while avoiding battles within
Authors: Hardman Isabel
Published: September 2014

Does Douglas Carswell's defection to Ukip threaten civil war in the Tory ranks? Isabel Hardman considers how this upset plays into longer‐term issues about David Cameron's standing as leader, the party's appetite for another coalition and the gathering storm over Europe.
Processing of Dense ζ‐Ta4C3−x by Reaction Sintering of Ta and TaC Powder Mixture
Authors: Sygnatowicz Michael , Cutler Raymond A. , Shetty Dinesh K.
Published: September 2014

Tantalum carbides are commonly processed by hot pressing, canned hot‐isostatic‐pressing, or spark plasma sintering because of their high melting temperatures and low diffusivities. This paper reports processing of dense ζ‐Ta4C3−x by reaction sintering of a Ta and TaC powder mixture (C/Ta atomic ratio = 0.66). ζ‐Ta4C3−x is of interest due to its rhombohedral (trigonal) crystal structure that may be characterized as a polytype with both face‐centered‐cubic and hexagonal‐close‐packed Ta stacking sequences interrupted by stacking faults and missing carbon layers. This structure leads to easy cleaving on the basal planes and high fracture toughness. A key step in processing is the hydrogenation of the Ta powder to produce β‐TaHx, a hard and brittle phase that enables efficient comminution during milling and production of small, equiaxed Ta particles that can be packed to high green density with the TaC powder. Studies of phase evolution by quantitative X‐ray diffraction during sintering revealed several intermediate reactions: (1) decomposition of β‐TaHx to Ta; (2) diffusion of C from γ‐TaC to Ta leading to the formation of α‐Ta2Cy' with the kinetics described by the Avrami equation with an exponent, n = 0.5, and an activation energy of 219 kJ/mole; (3) equilibration of α‐Ta2Cy' and γ‐TaC0.78 phases; and (4) formation of ζ‐Ta4C2.56 from the equilibrated α‐Ta2C and γ‐TaC0.78 phases with the kinetics characterized by a higher Avrami exponent (n ≈ 3) and higher activation energy (1007 kJ/mole). The sintered material contained ~0.86 weight fraction ζ‐Ta4C2.56 and ~0.14 weight fraction γ‐TaC0.78 phases. The microstructure showed evidence of nucleation and growth of the ζ‐Ta4C2.56 phase in both the α‐Ta2C and γ‐TaC0.78 parent phases with distinct difference in the morphology due to the different number of variants of the habit plane.
Radiofrequency ablation versus laser ablation for the treatment of small hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhosis: A randomized trial
Authors: Di Costanzo Giovan Giuseppe , Tortora Raffaella , D'Adamo Giuseppe , De Luca Massimo , Lampasi Filippo , Addario Luigi , Galeota Lanza Alfonso , Picciotto Francesco Paolo , Tartaglione Maria Teresa , Cordone Gabriella , Imparato Michele , Mattera Silvana , Pacella Claudio Maurizio
Published: September 2014

Background and Aim

In patients with cirrhosis and small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), thermal ablation is currently recognized as an effective local treatment. Among thermal procedures, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is the most diffusely used and is the standard against which any new treatment should be compared. In retrospective studies, laser ablation (LA) resulted as safe and effective as RFA. Therefore, we performed a non‐inferiority randomized trial comparing RFA with LA in patients with cirrhosis and HCC within Milan criteria.

Methods

Overall, 140 patients with 157 HCC nodules were randomly assigned to receive RFA or LA. The primary end‐point was the proportion of complete tumor ablation (CTA). Secondary end‐points were time to local progression (TTLP) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Per patient CTA rates after RFA and LA were 97.4% (95% CI, 91.0–99.3) and 95.7% (88.1–98.5), respectively (difference = 1.4%, 95% CI from −6.0% to + 9.0%). Per nodule CTA rates for RFA and LA were 97.4% (91.0–99.3) and 96.3% (89.6–98.7), respectively (difference = 1.1%, from −5.7% to + 8.1%). The mean TTLP was comparable between RFA group (42.0 months; 95% CI, 36.83–47.3) and LA group (46.7 months; 95% CI, 41.5–51.9) (P = .591). The mean OS was 42 months in both groups and survival probability at 1 and 3 years was 94% and 89% in RFA group, and 94% and 80% in LA group.

Conclusion

LA resulted not inferior to RFA in inducing the CTA of HCC nodules and therefore it should be considered as an evaluable alternative for thermal ablation of small HCC in cirrhotic patients.
Labor Force Participation and Monetary Policy in the Wake of the Great Recession
Authors: ERCEG CHRISTOPHER J. , LEVIN ANDREW T.
Published: September 2014

This paper provides compelling evidence that cyclical factors account for the bulk of the post‐2007 decline in the U.S. labor force participation rate (LFPR). We then formulate a stylized New Keynesian model in which the LFPR is practically acyclical during “normal times” but drops markedly following a large and persistent aggregate demand shock. These considerations have potentially crucial implications for the design of monetary policy, especially when interest rate adjustments are constrained by the zero lower bound; specifically, monetary policy can induce a more rapid recovery of the LFPR by allowing the unemployment rate to fall below its natural rate.
How to Weigh Unemployment Relative to Inflation in Monetary Policy?
Authors: SVENSSON LARS E.O.
Published: September 2014

The monetary policy mandate for the Federal Reserve and of the Riksbank are essentially the same and boil down to stabilizing inflation around the inflation target and employment or unemployment around a long‐run sustainable rate. The relative weight on stabilizing unemployment or employment versus stabilizing inflation may be close to one. A positive unemployment‐gap forecast normally calls for a positive inflation‐gap forecast.
STATE MERIT‐BASED FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS AND COLLEGE ATTAINMENT
Authors: Sjoquist David L. , Winters John V.
Published: September 2014

This paper examines the effects of state merit‐based student aid programs on college attendance and degree completion. Our primary analysis uses microdata from the 2000 United States Census and 2001–2010 American Community Survey to estimate the effects of exposure to merit programs on educational outcomes for 25 states that adopted such programs by 2004. We also utilize administrative data for the University System of Georgia to look more in depth at the effects of exposure to the HOPE Scholarship on degree completion. We find strong consistent evidence that exposure to state merit aid programs have no meaningfully positive effect on college completion.
Determining Children's Perceptions, Opinions and Attitudes for Sliced Sandwich Breads
Authors: Jervis M.G. , Jervis S.M. , Guthrie B. , Drake M.A.
Published: September 2014

The objective of this study was to determine the ideal whole grain bread product for children (8–17 years) using a survey and conjoint analysis. Focus groups (three focus groups, n = 23), emotional response and appearance liking surveys (n = 172), and an adaptive choice‐based conjoint survey (n = 173) were conducted with children. Across elementary, middle and high school‐aged children, children preferred bread with a light crumb (inside of the bread), a light crust and no topping or added textures or visual cues in the crumb. Children had generally negative feelings for breads with dark‐colored crumb and crust, but had generally positive feelings for breads with light‐colored crumb and crust. Breads with white crumb were liked more than bread with dark crumb, regardless of crumb particles, crust or crust topping. Crust color had no impact on overall appearance liking score. These results demonstrate that regardless of age, children like soft breads with light‐colored crumb and crust with no fillings or toppings.

Practical Applications

Increased consumption of whole grain breads is an effective technique in decreasing obesity in American children. Children's likings of bread products have an inverse relationship with whole grain versus refined grain content. This study demonstrated that development of a whole grain bread product that is desirable to children in both visual appearance and taste is an important step toward increased whole grain consumption by children and that images of attributes and a conjoint analysis in a survey format can be effectively utilized by children to measure their desires.
Melatonin promotes osteoblast differentiation and mineralization of MC3T3‐E1 cells under hypoxic conditions through activation of PKD/p38 pathways
Authors: Son Jang‐Ho , Cho Yeong‐Cheol , Sung Iel‐Yong , Kim In‐Ryoung , Park Bong‐Soo , Kim Yong‐Deok
Published: September 2014

Osteoblastic differentiation and bone‐forming capacity are known to be suppressed under hypoxic conditions. Melatonin has been shown to influence cell differentiation. A number of in vitro and in vivo studies have suggested that melatonin also has an anabolic effect on bone, by promoting osteoblastic differentiation. However, the precise mechanisms and the signaling pathways involved in this process, particularly under hypoxic conditions, are unknown. This study investigated whether melatonin could promote osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization of preosteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cells under hypoxic conditions. Additionally, we examined the molecular signaling pathways by which melatonin mediates this process. We found that melatonin is capable of promoting differentiation and mineralization of MC3T3‐E1 cells cultured under hypoxic conditions. Melatonin upregulated ALP activity and mRNA levels of Alp, Osx, Col1, and Ocn in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner. Alizarin red S staining showed that the mineralized matrix in hypoxic MC3T3‐E1 cells formed in a manner that was dependent on melatonin concentration. Moreover, melatonin stimulated phosphorylation of p38 Mapk and Prkd1 in these MC3T3‐E1 cells. We concluded that melatonin promotes osteoblastic differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells under hypoxic conditions via the p38 Mapk and Prkd1 signaling pathways.
‘Melatonin isomer’ in wine is not an isomer of the melatonin but tryptophan‐ethylester
Authors: Gardana Claudio , Iriti Marcello , Stuknytė Milda , De Noni Ivano , Simonetti Paolo
Published: September 2014

Melatonin is a neurohormone, chronobiotic, and antioxidant compound found in wine and deriving directly from grapes and/or synthesized by yeast during alcoholic fermentation. In addition, a melatonin isomer has been detected in different foods, wine among them. The special interest for melatonin isomer related to the fact that it was found in greater quantities than melatonin and probably shares some of its biological properties. Despite this, its chemical structure has not yet been defined; although some researchers hypothesize, it could be melatonin with the ethylacetamide group shifted into position N1. Thus, the aim of our study was to identify the structures of the melatonin isomer. For this purpose, melatonin and melatonin isomer in Syrah wine were separated chromatographically by a sub‐2 μm particle column and detected by tandem mass spectrometry. The sample was then purified and concentrated by solid‐phase extraction, hydrolyzed with alkali or esterase, and substrates and products quantified by UPLC‐MS/MS. Moreover, melatonin, melatonin isomer, and their product ions were evaluated by high‐resolution mass spectrometry. The amount of melatonin isomer and melatonin in the wine was 84 ± 4 and 3 ± 0 ng/mL, respectively. In the solutions, containing diluted alkali or esterase, melatonin isomer was hydrolyzed in about 8 min. Correspondingly, tryptophan was detected, and its amount increased and reached the maximum concentration in about 8 min. Melatonin concentration was not affected by diluted alkali or esterase. The fragmentation pattern of melatonin isomer was different from that of melatonin but comparable to that of tryptophan‐ethylester. Finally, the so‐called melatonin isomer identity was verified by cochromatography with authentic standard of tryptophan‐ethylester.