bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of miR‐200 family members in survival of colorectal cancer patients treated with fluoropyrimidines
Authors: Diaz Tania , Tejero Rut , Moreno Isabel , Ferrer Gerardo , Cordeiro Anna , Artells Rosa , Navarro Alfons , Hernandez Raquel , Tapia Gustavo , Monzo Mariano
Published: February 2014

Background and Objectives

Surgery is the standard treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC), and adjuvant chemotherapy has been shown to be effective in stage III but less so in stage II. We have analyzed the expression of the miR‐200 family in tissue samples from resected CRC patients and correlated our findings with survival to adjuvant treatment with fluoropyrimidines.

Methods

Tumor tissue samples were obtained from 127 surgically resected patients with stage I–III CRC. miRNA detection was performed using TaqMan MicroRNA assays.

Results

High levels of miR‐200a and miR‐200c were associated with longer overall survival, while high levels of miR‐429 correlated with longer overall and disease‐free survival (DFS). In the subgroup of 56 patients treated with fluoropyrimidines and in the smaller subgroup of 32 stage II patients treated with fluoropyrimidines, those with high levels of miR‐200a, miR‐200c, miR‐141, or miR‐429 had significantly longer overall and DFS. Low miR‐429 levels were identified as an independent prognostic marker. High levels of miR‐429 combined with 5‐fluorouracil inhibited cell invasion in LOVO cells.

Conclusions

miR‐200a, miR‐200c, miR‐141, and miR‐429 expression levels may identify CRC patients, including those with stage II disease, who are most likely to benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy. J. Surg. Oncol 2014; 109:676–683. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Physical Injury, PTSD Symptoms, and Medication Use: Examination in Two Trauma Types
Authors: Cody Meghan W. , Beck J. Gayle
Published: February 2014

Physical injury is prevalent across many types of trauma experiences and can be associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and physical health effects, including increased medication use. Recent studies suggest that PTSD symptoms may mediate the effects of traumatic injury on health outcomes, but it is unknown whether this finding holds for survivors of different types of traumas. The current study examined cross‐sectional relationships between injury, PTSD, and pain and psychiatric medication use in 2 trauma‐exposed samples, female survivors of motor vehicle accidents (MVAs; n = 315) and intimate partner violence (IPV; n = 167). Data were obtained from participants at 2 trauma research clinics who underwent a comprehensive assessment of psychopathology following the stressor. Regression with bootstrapping suggested that PTSD symptoms mediate the relationship between injury severity and use of pain medications, R2 = .11, F(2, 452) = 28.37, p < .001, and psychiatric medications, R2 = .06, F(2, 452) = 13.18, p < .001, as hypothesized. Mediation, however, was not moderated by trauma type (ps > .05). Results confirm an association between posttraumatic psychopathology and medication usage and suggest that MVA and IPV survivors alike may benefit from assessment and treatment of emotional distress after physical injury.
The Evidence for Present‐Centered Therapy as a Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Frost Nickolas D. , Laska Kevin M. , Wampold Bruce E.
Published: February 2014

To examine the evidence for present‐centered therapy (PCT) as a treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), 5 randomized clinical trials that compared PCT to an existing evidence‐based treatment for PTSD were reviewed. A meta‐analysis was used to estimate between‐treatment differences on targeted measures, secondary measures, and dropout. PCT was found to be as efficacious as the comparison evidence‐based treatment in 3 of the 5 trials, and in the 2 cases where a no‐treatment condition was included, PCT was superior, with large effect sizes for targeted variables (d = 0.88, 0.74, and 1.27). When results were aggregated using meta‐analysis, effects for PCT versus an evidence‐based treatment for both targeted and secondary measures were small and nonsignificant (d = 0.13 and d = 0.09, respectively). As well, the dropout rate for PCT was significantly less than for the comparison evidence‐based treatments (14.3% and 31.3%, respectively). It appears that PCT is an efficacious and acceptable treatment for PTSD.
Two novel PRKCI polymorphisms and prostate cancer risk in an Eastern Chinese Han population
Authors: Li Qiaoxin , Gu Chengyuan , Zhu Yao , Wang Mengyun , Yang Yajun , Wang Jiucun , Jin Li , Zhu Mei‐Ling , Shi Ting‐Yan , He Jing , Ye Dingwei , Wei Qingyi
Published: February 2014

The atypical protein kinase C (aPKCι), encoded by the PRKCI gene, has been recently found to be a unique human oncoprotein, compared with some other diverse PKC isozymes. Genetic variations in PRKCI have also been reported to be associated with prostate cancer (PCa) risk in Caucasian populations, but no similar studies have been reported for Chinese populations. We genotyped two well‐described PRKCI single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs546950 and rs4955720 in 1015 PCa patients and 1044 cancer‐free controls of Eastern Chinese men. SNPs in the vicinity of those two variants of PRKCI were evaluated using the in silico analysis. Logistic regression was then used to estimate their associations with and interactions in PCa risk. Although no significant main effects were found for the two tested SNPs in the single locus analysis, individuals carrying homozygote wide‐type form of these two SNPs had slightly reduced PCa risk (adjusted OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.40–0.99, P = 0.045), compared with those carrying any of heterozygous or homozygous variant genotypes. Our results indicated that the two PRKCI SNPs were jointly associated with PCa risk in an Eastern Chinese population. Larger studies with multiethnic groups are warranted to confirm these findings and to explore the role of PRKCI SNPs in the etiology of PCa. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rehabilitation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Why it matters
Authors: Majmudar Salony , Wu Jason , Paganoni Sabrina
Published: February 2014

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that results in a constellation of problematic symptoms and a high patient and caregiver burden. Multidisciplinary care includes rehabilitation interventions that have the goal of assisting people to teach their fullest potential despite the presence of a disabling disease. Given the progressive nature of ALS, the clinician must be aware of the expected disease trajectory and apply appropriate interventions at each stage. This review will present rehabilitation strategies that can be utilized to maximize patient independence, function, safety, and quality of life, and to minimize disease‐related symptoms. The role of bracing, exercise, assistive devices, and adaptive equipment will be discussed. At each disease stage, an experienced rehabilitation team is well positioned to make a significant impact on the life of ALS patients. Muscle Nerve 50: 4–13, 2014
Beneath the surface: dermatology and psychiatry
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: February 2014

The impact that dermatological and psychiatric conditions have on each other is significant and complex, as Mark Greener discovered at the 22nd Congress of the European Association of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) held in Istanbul in October 2013. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Reducing medicines administration errors on dementia units
Authors: Dawson Elizabeth
Published: February 2014

Dr Dawson describes her audit cycle carried out on two NHS dementia assessment units to assess the frequency of drug administration errors and the subsequent improvements made following simple interventions, including training sessions for nursing staff, clear coding of medication and encouraging the reporting of empty boxes as medication errors. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Controlled/living ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactone with salicylic acid as the organocatalyst
Authors: Xu Jinbao , Song Junzhe , Pispas Stergios , Zhang Guangzhao
Published: February 2014

Ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of ε‐caprolactone (CL) using salicylic acid (SAA) as the organocatalyst and benzyl alcohol as the initiator in bulk at 80 °C successfully proceeded to give a narrowly distributed poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL). In addition, 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate, propargyl alcohol, 6‐azido‐1‐hexanol, and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) were also used as functional initiators. The 1H NMR, SEC, and MALDI‐TOF MS measurements of the PCL clearly indicate the presence of the initiator residue at the chain end, implying that the SAA‐catalyzed ROP of CL was through the activated monomer mechanism. The kinetic experiments confirmed the controlled/living nature of the SAA‐catalyzed ROP of CL. Furthermore, the block copolymerization of CL and δ‐valerolactone successfully proceeded to give poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐block‐poly(δ‐valerolactone). © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1185–1192
Over‐expression of secreted proteins from mammalian cell lines
Authors: Dalton Annamarie C. , Barton William A.
Published: February 2014

Secreted mammalian proteins require the development of robust protein over‐expression systems for crystallographic and biophysical studies of protein function. Due to complex disulfide bonds and distinct glycosylation patterns preventing folding and expression in prokaryotic expression hosts, many secreted proteins necessitate production in more complex eukaryotic expression systems. Here, we elaborate on the methods used to obtain high yields of purified secreted proteins from transiently or stably transfected mammalian cell lines. Among the issues discussed are the selection of appropriate expression vectors, choice of signal sequences for protein secretion, availability of fusion tags for enhancing protein stability and purification, choice of cell line, and the large‐scale growth of cells in a variety of formats.
Lubiprostone: new treatment for chronic idiopathic constipation
Authors: Chaplin Steve , Ford Alex
Published: February 2014

Lubiprostone (Amitiza) increases intestinal motility and is licensed for the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation. In our New products review, Steve Chaplin presents the data relating to its efficacy and adverse events and Dr Alex Ford discusses its place in therapy.
Correlation between the magnetostriction constant and thermal properties of soft magnetic microwires
Authors: Kaloshkin Sergey , Talaat Ahmed , Ipatov Mihail , Zhukova Valentina , Blanco Juan Maria , Churyukanova Margarita , Chichay Ksenia , Zhukov Arcady
Published: February 2014

We studied magnetic and thermal properties of Fe‐ and Co‐based glass‐coated microwires. The change of the specific heat near the Curie point, ΔCp, has been evaluated from the temperature dependence of the heat capacity obtained by the ratio‐method with sapphire as the reference. The values of the magnetostriction constant were measured for all prepared samples by using the small angle magnetization rotation method. We observed the correlation between the change of heat capacity at TC, ΔCp, and the magnetostriction constant, λs.
The ENBIS‐11 Quality and Reliability Engineering International Special Issue
Authors: Di Bucchianico Alessandro , Wynn Henry
Published: February 2014

This is the editorial of the ENBIS‐11 special issue. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of Generalized Platforms for the Analysis of Complex Datasets
Authors: Gomes Véronique M. , Pereira Ana C. , Saraiva Pedro M. , Reis Marco S.
Published: February 2014

A systematization of complex data structures, originated in current processes and product analysis activities, is presented as a starting point for developing generalized and flexible frameworks for handling such challenging information sources. In this article, we present an abstract and unifying definition for a class of multidimensional data arrays (here called profiles), built upon which a taxonomy is proposed for their classification, according to aspects relevant for the development of software platforms, namely, the underlying data structure characteristics and the nature of information they convey. Such taxonomy is based on an extensive bibliographic review involving the analysis of complex datasets. Then, we identify the classes of profiles with higher demand (dominant classes) and, for these, conduct a comparison study involving those methodologies that could be applied in the context of two tasks: calibration/regression and process monitoring. The comparison study showed that the Tucker3 and N‐way Partial Least Squares methods are good candidates to incorporate a computational framework addressing the dominant classes of profiles that were identified.

The purpose of this ongoing work is to provide fundamental information for developing new software tools able to handle a broad scope of problems, involving the type of complex datasets found in practice, as well as on how to modularly add features regarding the treatment of other, less frequent, classes, to add value to users with more specific interests. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Progressive Mean as a Special Case of Exponentially Weighted Moving Average
Authors: Abbas Nasir
Published: February 2014

In the category of memory‐type control charts, progressive mean control chart was proposed recently, for monitoring the process location. Here we show, through the derivation, that the plotting statistic for the progressive mean control chart becomes a special case of exponentially weighted moving average when the sensitivity parameter becomes reciprocal of the sample number. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SIRT6 Regulates Osteogenic Differentiation of Rat Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Partially via Suppressing the Nuclear Factor-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Sun Hualing , Wu Yanru , Fu Dongjie , Liu Yinchen , Huang Cui
Published: February 2014

Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) is a NAD-dependent deacetylase involved in lifespan regulation. To evaluate the effect of SIRT6 on osteogenesis, rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs) with enhanced or reduced SIRT6 function were developed. We observed that SIRT6 knockdown significantly reduced the mRNA levels of several key osteogenic markers in vitro, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), and osteocalcin, while overexpression of SIRT6 enhanced their expression. Additionally, SIRT6 knockdown activated nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) transcriptional activity and upregulated the expression of acetyl-NF-κB p65 (Lys310). The decreased osteogenic differentiation ability of rBMSCs could be partially rescued by the addition of NF-κB inhibitor BAY 11–7082. Furthermore, SIRT6 overexpression in rBMSCs combined with the use of collagen/chitosan/hydroxyapatite scaffold could significantly boost new bone formation in rat cranial critical-sized defects, as determined by microcomputed tomography and histological examination. These data confirm that SIRT6 is mainly located in the nuclei of rBMSCs and plays an essential role in their normal osteogenic differentiation, partly by suppressing NF-κB signaling. Stem Cells  2014;32:1943–1955
EM channel characteristics and their impact on MAC layer performance in underwater surveillance networks
Authors: Li Jun , Toulgoat Mylène
Published: February 2014

Wireless communications and multihop networking based on electromagnetic (EM) radios have been considered as an alternative to acoustic communications in seawater because in typical applications for networked underwater sensing, EM waves are much less susceptible to multipath distortion and environmental noise. In this paper, we discuss the characteristics of EM channels in seawater and derive a novel EM signal propagation model. Based on the propagation model, we implement in the QualNet network simulator an EM underwater surveillance network for studying the impact of these unique characteristics of underwater EM channels on the media access control (MAC) layer performance. Both a single‐hop network model and a multihop network model are simulated. Simulation results show that the carrier sense multiple access without or with acknowledgement (CSMAWithoutACK or CSMAWithACK, respectively) has advantages over ALOHA and multiple access with collision avoidance in terms of packet average delay, packet delivery ratio, and MAC scheme overhead. In the multihop network model, the use of CSMAWithoutACK significantly reduces the packet average delay and the MAC scheme overhead, and both CSMAWithoutACK and CSMAWithACK achieve more than 90% packet delivery ratio. Therefore, CSMAWithoutACK (with no handshaking via request‐to‐send and clear‐to‐send control packets) is the most appropriate MAC protocol to be used in multihop EM‐based underwater surveillance networks. © Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada 2014. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Industry Canada
Maximum power‐point tracking control for wind farms
Authors: Gebraad P. M. O. , van Wingerden J. W.
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a data‐driven adaptive scheme to adjust the control settings of each wind turbine in a wind farm such that an increase in the total power production of the wind farm is achieved. This is carried out by taking into account the interaction between the turbines through wake effects. The optimization scheme is designed in such a way that it yields fast convergence so that it can adapt to changing wind conditions quickly. The scheme has a distributed architecture in which each wind turbine adapts its control settings through gradient‐based optimization, using information that it receives from neighbouring turbines. The novel control method is tested in a simulation of the Princess Amalia Wind Park. It is shown that the distributed gradient‐based approach performs the optimization in a more time‐efficient manner compared with an existing data‐driven wind farm power optimization method that uses a game theoretic approach. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enculturation and Attitudes Toward Intimate Partner Violence and Gender Roles in an Asian Indian Population: Implications for Community‐Based Prevention
Authors: Yoshihama Mieko , Blazevski Juliane , Bybee Deborah
Published: February 2014

This study examined the relationships among enculturation, attitudes supporting intimate partner violence (IPV‐supporting attitudes), and gender role attitudes among one of the largest Asian Indian population groups in the US. Data were collected via computer‐assisted telephone interviews with a random sample of Gujarati men and women aged 18–64 in Metropolitan Detroit. Using structural equation modeling, we modeled the effects of three components of enculturation (behavior, values, and community participation) on gender role attitudes and IPV‐supporting attitudes among married respondents (N = 373). Analyses also accounted for the effects of respondent age, education, religious service attendance, perceived financial difficulty, and lengths of residence in the US. The second‐order, overall construct of enculturation was the strongest predictor of IPV‐supporting attitudes (standardized B = 0.61), but not gender role attitudes. Patriarchal gender role attitudes were positively associated with IPV‐supporting attitudes (B = 0.49). In addition to the overall effect of the enculturation construct, two of the components of enculturation had specific effects. “Enculturation‐values” had a specific positive indirect association with IPV‐supporting attitudes, through its relationship with patriarchal gender role attitudes. However, “enculturation‐community participation” was negatively associated with IPV‐supporting attitudes, suggesting the importance of community‐based prevention of IPV among this immigrant population group.
MOCK THETA FUNCTIONS AND QUANTUM MODULAR FORMS
Authors: FOLSOM AMANDA , ONO KEN , RHOADES ROBERT C.
Published: February 2014

Ramanujan’s last letter to Hardy concerns the asymptotic properties of modular forms and his ‘mock theta functions’. For the mock theta function $f(q)$, Ramanujan claims that as $q$ approaches an even-order $2k$ root of unity, we have $$\begin{eqnarray*}f(q)- (- 1)^{k} (1- q)(1- {q}^{3} )(1- {q}^{5} )\cdots (1- 2q+ 2{q}^{4} - \cdots )= O(1).\end{eqnarray*}$$ We prove Ramanujan’s claim as a special case of a more general result. The implied constants in Ramanujan’s claim are not mysterious. They arise in Zagier’s theory of ‘quantum modular forms’. We provide explicit closed expressions for these ‘radial limits’ as values of a ‘quantum’ $q$-hypergeometric function which underlies a new relationship between Dyson’s rank mock theta function and the Andrews–Garvan crank modular form. Along these lines, we show that the Rogers–Fine false $\vartheta $-functions, functions which have not been well understood within the theory of modular forms, specialize to quantum modular forms.
Casein improves brachial and central aortic diastolic blood pressure in overweight adolescents: a randomised, controlled trial
Authors: Arnberg Karina , Larnkjær Anni , Michaelsen Kim F. , Jensen Signe Marie , Hoppe Camilla , Mølgaard Christian
Published: February 2014

Arterial stiffness, blood pressure (BP) and blood lipids may be improved by milk in adults and the effects may be mediated via proteins. However, limited is known about the effects of milk proteins on central aortic BP and no studies have examined the effects in children. Therefore, the present trial examined the effect of milk and milk proteins on brachial and central aortic BP, blood lipids, inflammation and arterial stiffness in overweight adolescents. A randomised controlled trial was conducted in 193 overweight adolescents aged 12–15 years. They were randomly assigned to drink 1 litre of water, skimmed milk, whey or casein for 12 weeks. The milk-based test drinks contained 35 g protein/l. The effects were compared with the water group and a pretest control group consisting of thirty-two of the adolescents followed 12 weeks before the start of the intervention. Outcomes were brachial and central aortic BP, pulse wave velocity and augmentation index, serum C-reactive protein and blood lipids. Brachial and central aortic diastolic BP (DBP) decreased by 2·7% (P = 0·036) and 2·6 % (P = 0·048), respectively, within the casein group and the changes were significantly different from those of the pretest control group (P = 0·040 and P = 0·034, respectively). There was a significant increase in central aortic DBP, and in brachial and central systolic BP in the whey group compared with the water group (P = 0·003, P = 0·009 and P = 0·002, respectively). There were no changes in measures of arterial stiffness or blood lipid concentrations. A high intake of casein improves DBP in overweight adolescents. Thus, casein may be beneficial for younger overweight subjects in terms of reducing the long-term risk of CVD. In contrast, whey protein seems to increase BP compared with drinking water; however, water may be considered an active control group.
Iron deficiency, cognition, mental health and fatigue in women of childbearing age: a systematic review
Authors: Greig Alecia J. , Patterson Amanda J. , Collins Clare E. , Chalmers Kerry A.
Published: February 2014

It is known that Fe deficiency has a negative impact on cognitive function in children by altering brain energy metabolism and neurotransmitter function. It is unclear whether Fe deficiency has detrimental effects on cognition, mental health and fatigue in women of childbearing age. Our aim was to systematically review the literature to determine whether Fe deficiency in women of childbearing age affects cognition, mental health and fatigue, and whether a change in Fe status results in improvements in cognition, mental health and fatigue. Studies using Fe supplement interventions were reviewed to examine the effect of Fe deficiency in women of childbearing age (13–45 years) on their cognition, mental health and fatigue. English-language articles ranging from the earliest record to the year 2011 were sourced. The quality of retrieved articles was assessed and the Fe pathology, cognitive, mental health and fatigue data were extracted. Means and standard deviations from cognitive test data were included in meta-analyses of combined effects. Of the 1348 studies identified, ten were included in the review. Three studies showed poorer cognition and mental health scores and increased fatigue with Fe deficiency at baseline. Seven studies reported an improvement in cognitive test scores after Fe treatment. Results of three of these studies were included in meta-analyses of the effect of Fe supplement intervention on cognition. The results of the meta-analyses showed a significant improvement in Arithmetic scores after treatment (P < 0·01), but no effect on Digit Symbol, Digit Span or Block Design. While an improvement in cognition after Fe treatment was seen in seven out of ten studies, the evidence base is limited by poor study quality and heterogeneity across studies. Additional high-quality studies using consistent measures are warranted.
The Effect of Acute Exercise on Smoking Topography: No Evidence for Cutting Down One Puff at a Time
Authors: Schneider Terri , De Jesus Stefanie , Prapavessis Harry
Published: February 2014

Recent systematic reviews have concluded that a single session of exercise ameliorates cravings and tobacco withdrawal symptoms; however, smoking behaviour (topography) has not been adequately addressed in the literature. This study examined the effect of an acute bout of exercise on smoking topography following a temporary period of smoking abstinence. Forty-eight adult smokers (Nfemale = 34, Mage = 43.14), who had been smoking for an average of 23.90 years, were randomised to an acute (10 minutes) bout of exercise (N = 23) or passive sitting (control) group. Cigarette cravings were assessed at baseline and immediately pre and post treatment condition during a 15-hour smoking abstinence period. Smoking topography which included puff count, puff volume, puff duration, inter-puff interval, and total cigarette duration was assessed at baseline and post treatment. Although exercise reduced cravings, compared to the control group, smoking topography remained unchanged across time between groups. Furthermore, craving reduction was unrelated to any smoking topography variables. Although there is evidence that exercise can delay time to first cigarette, this study demonstrates that the change to smoking topography is negligible when participants are invited to smoke.
Individual differences in the scope of speech planning: evidence from eye-movements
Authors: SWETS BENJAMIN , JACOVINA MATTHEW E. , GERRIG RICHARD J.
Published: February 2014

abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that the scope of speakers’ planning in language production varies in response to external forces such as time pressure. This susceptibility to external pressures indicates a flexibly incremental production system: speakers plan utterances piece by piece, but external pressures affect the size of the pieces speakers buffer. In the current study, we exploreinternalconstraints on speech planning. Specifically, we examine whether individual differences in working memory predict the scope and efficiency of advance planning. In our task, speakers described picture arrays to partners in a matching game. The arrays sometimes required speakers to note a contrast between a sentence-initial object (e.g., a four-legged cat) and a sentence-final object (e.g., a three-legged cat). Based on prior screening, we selected participants who differed on verbal working memory span. Eye-movement measures revealed that high-span speakers were more likely to gaze at the contrasting pictures prior to articulation than were low-span speakers. As a result, high-span speakers were also more likely to reference the contrast early in speech. We conclude that working memory plays a substantial role in the flexibility of incremental speech planning.
Safety of soya-based infant formulas in children
Authors: Vandenplas Yvan , Castrellon Pedro Gutierrez , Rivas Rodolfo , Gutiérrez Carlos Jimenez , Garcia Luisa Diaz , Jimenez Juliana Estevez , Anzo Anahi , Hegar Badriul , Alarcon Pedro
Published: February 2014

Soya-based infant formulas (SIF) containing soya flour were introduced almost 100 years ago. Modern soya formulas are used in allergy/intolerance to cows' milk-based formulas (CMF), post-infectious diarrhoea, lactose intolerance and galactosaemia, as a vegan human milk (HM) substitute, etc. The safety of SIF is still debated. In the present study, we reviewed the safety of SIF in relation to anthropometric growth, bone health (bone mineral content), immunity, cognition, and reproductive and endocrine functions. The present review includes cross-sectional, case–control, cohort studies or clinical trials that were carried out in children fed SIF compared with those fed other types of infant formulas and that measured safety. The databases that were searched included PubMed (1909 to July 2013), Embase (1988 to May 2013), LILACS (1990 to May 2011), ARTEMISA (13th edition, December 2012), Cochrane controlled trials register, Bandolier and DARE using the Cochrane methodology. Wherever possible, a meta-analysis was carried out. We found that the anthropometric patterns of children fed SIF were similar to those of children fed CMF or HM. Despite the high levels of phytates and aluminium in SIF, Hb, serum protein, Zn and Ca concentrations and bone mineral content were found to be similar to those of children fed CMF or HM. We also found the levels of genistein and daidzein to be higher in children fed SIF; however, we did not find strong evidence of a negative effect on reproductive and endocrine functions. Immune measurements and neurocognitive parameters were similar in all the feeding groups. In conclusion, modern SIF are evidence-based safety options to feed children requiring them. The patterns of growth, bone health and metabolic, reproductive, endocrine, immune and neurological functions are similar to those observed in children fed CMF or HM.
Effects of consumption of main and side dishes with white rice on postprandial glucose, insulin, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 responses in healthy Japanese men
Authors: Kameyama Noriko , Maruyama Chizuko , Matsui Sadako , Araki Risa , Yamada Yuichiro , Maruyama Taro
Published: February 2014

The co-ingestion of protein, fat and fibre with carbohydrate reportedly affects postprandial glucose, insulin and incretin (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)) responses. However, the effects of combination dishes with carbohydrate-rich foods at typically eaten amounts remain unclear. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of consuming recommended amounts of side dishes with boiled white rice in the same meal on postprandial plasma glucose, insulin and incretin hormone responses. A total of nine healthy male volunteers consumed four different meals in a random order on separate days. The test meals were as follows: S, white rice; SM, addition of protein-rich main dishes to the S meal; SMF, addition of a fat-rich food item to the SM meal; SMFV, addition of vegetables to the SMF meal. Plasma glucose, GIP and GLP-1 and serum insulin concentrations were determined during a 3 h period after consumption of these meals. Postprandial glucose responses were lower after SMFV meal consumption than after consumption of the other meals. The incremental AUC for GIP (0–180 min) were largest after consumption of the SMF and SMFV meals, followed by that after SM meal consumption, and was smallest after S meal consumption (P< 0·05). Furthermore, we found GIP concentrations to be dose dependently increased by the fat content of meals of ordinary size, despite the amount of additional fat being small. In conclusion, the combination of recommended amounts of main and vegetable side dishes with boiled white rice is beneficial for lowering postprandial glucose concentrations, with an increased incretin response, when compared with white rice alone.
Metabolic profile before and after short-term overfeeding with a high-fat diet: a comparison between South Asian and white men
Authors: Wulan Siti N. , Westerterp Klaas R. , Plasqui Guy
Published: February 2014

For the same BMI, South Asians have a higher body fat percentage and an adverse metabolic profile compared with whites. The objective of the present study was to determine the metabolic profiles of South Asian and white men matched for body fat percentage in response to short-term overfeeding with a high-fat diet. A total of ten healthy non-diabetic South Asian men matched for body fat percentage with ten white men were included in the study. A weight-maintenance diet (containing 30 % fat, 55 % carbohydrate and 15 % protein) was provided for 3 d followed by 4 d of overfeeding (150 % of energy requirement) with a high-fat diet (60 % fat, 25 % carbohydrate and 15 % protein). Before and after the overfeeding period, plasma glucose, insulin, TAG, NEFA, total cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol concentrations were determined. Glucose clearance was calculated using a 2 h oral glucose tolerance test. The results revealed that in South Asian and white men, respectively, overfeeding with a high-fat diet decreased plasma TAG concentrations by 0·4 (sd0·6) and 0·4 (sd0·5) mmol/l (Pdiet= 0·008;Pethnicity= 0·24), increased HDL-cholesterol concentrations by 0·12 (sd0·1) and 0·14 (sd0·2) mmol/l (Pdiet= 0·001;Pethnicity= 0·06) and decreased glucose clearance by 48·8 (sd53·5) and 37·2 (sd34·2) ml/min per m2body surface (Pdiet= 0·004;Pethnicity= 0·18). There was a significant interaction between diet and ethnicity with regard to the changes in total and LDL-cholesterol concentrations (P= 0·01 and 0·007, respectively), which trended towards a larger increase in South Asian subjects than in white subjects. Despite a similar body fat percentage, short-term overfeeding with a high-fat diet had more adverse effects on the lipid profile of South Asians than on that of whites.
Cost–utility analysis and otolaryngology
Authors: Hamilton D , Hulme C , Flood L , Powell S
Published: February 2014

As providers of health care, we face increasing demand on our limited, indeed diminishing, resources. Economic appraisal of our interventions means assessing the trade-off between effectiveness, efficiency and equity. When rationing becomes inevitable, calculation of utility values is a valuable decision-making tool. This paper reviews objective measures of patient benefit, such as quality of life, and focuses on their application within otolaryngology.
Red deer exclusion and saxicolous cryptogam community structure
Authors: MOORE Oliver , CRAWLEY Michael J.
Published: February 2014

Deer exclosure is an important management strategy for encouraging woodland regeneration in the presence of high numbers ofCervus elaphusL. This could pose a threat to important saxicolous lichen communities as a result of competition from bryophytes and other vegetation. This investigation compared the bryophyte and lichen communities associated with siliceous rock outcrops and boulders inside and outside a number of exclosures in wet heath vegetation at the Gruinard, Letterewe and Little Gruinard estates in Wester Ross. Species cover data were recorded from 6600·2×0·2 m quadrats, allocated to three different aspects of rocks, from 22 pairs of plots (placed either side of a deer fence) with randomization at each level of this hierarchy. The data were analyzed using linear mixed effects models. Mean lichen cover, diversity and species richness were significantly lower in quadrats on rocks within the exclosures. Mean bryophyte cover was significantly higher in quadrats on rocks inside the deer fence and was shown to have a highly significant negative relationship with total lichen cover. Saxicolous lichen species are particularly affected by the increase in shading and litter accumulation from the surrounding plants and the subsequent growth of bryophytes and heath vegetation on rocks within the exclosures. The results of this study have implications for the use of exclosures at locations where there are important saxicolous lichen communities.
Finance and the Northern Expedition: From the Northeast Asian Perspective, 1925–1928
Authors: MAN KWONG CHI
Published: February 2014

This paper looks at the problems faced by the Chinese silver-backed currencies in Manchuria during the period of Northern Expedition (1925–1928), the Chinese attempt to overcome these problems, and the reasons for its failure. Manchuria was a peculiar territory during the interwar period (1919–1939), where several currencies, backed by silver or gold, competed against one another. The Chinese silver banknote, first introduced at the turn of the twentieth century, was challenged by gold-backed Japanese yen issued by the Bank of Korea, and by the Russian ruble. This competition was set in the context of the struggle for political control over the area between China (the Qing Dynasty and its successor, the Chinese Republic), Russia (and its successor the Soviet Union), and the Japanese Empire, as well as the war between the southern Nationalists (Kuomintang) and the militarists (warlords) who controlled the Chinese central government in Beijing and Manchuria. This paper suggests that the difficult financial situation determined the course followed by the warlords, and that their failure was the result of the complex regional context, and the failures in their military strategy rather than of their fiscal policy.
Fading out of view: the enigmatic decline of Rose's mountain toadCapensibufo rosei
Authors: Cressey E. R. , Measey G. J. , Tolley K. A.
Published: February 2014

Rose's mountain toadCapensibufo roseisurvives in a few isolated montane populations in the south-western Cape of South Africa. It comprises several cryptic species but it is uncertain whether the lineage on the Cape Peninsula is distinct. We tested the hypothesis that toads from the Peninsula form a single genetic lineage but that different breeding sites are divergent at a population level as a result of limited dispersal abilities. Directed surveys were carried out to locate breeding sites and samples obtained were analysed in a phylogenetic and population genetic framework, using two mitochondrial markers. We found toads breeding at only one of five known historical breeding sites, although one new breeding site was also recorded. No toads were observed at 15 other non-breeding localities where they were historically observed. Toads from the two active breeding sites formed a single lineage that was sufficiently distinct to be given species status. However, these were discrete at a population level, with no shared haplotypes, suggesting no gene flow between sites. One site was particularly low in genetic diversity, implying increased vulnerability to stochastic events and elevated risk of extinction. These results, coupled with the failure to locate historically known sites on the Cape Peninsula, make this newly recognized Peninsula endemic a conservation priority. Efforts should focus on the protection and expansion of the two known surviving populations and the patches of habitat upon which they rely.
Competing goals draw attention to effort, which then enters cost-benefit computations as input
Authors: Hennecke Marie , Freund Alexandra M.
Published: February 2014

Different to Kurzban et al., we conceptualize the experience of mental effort as the subjective costs of goal pursuit (i.e., the amount of invested resources relative to the amount of available resources). Rather than being anoutputof computations that compare costs and benefits of the target and competing goals, effort enters these computations as aninput.
SEMIAUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATORS FOR IN-HOSPITAL EARLY DEFIBRILLATION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: Nocchi Federico , Derrico Pietro , Masucci Gerardina , Capussotto Carlo , Cecchetti Corrado , Ritrovato Matteo
Published: February 2014

Objectives: Semiautomated external defibrillators (AEDs) should be considered as a means to facilitate in-hospital early defibrillation (IHED) in areas where advanced life support rescuers are not readily available. In this study, we aimed to develop a checklist and a measurement protocol to evaluate and compare AEDs by assessing factors that may affect IHED.

Methods: A clinical and technical comparison of six AEDs was performed. Technical specifications were analyzed, while an emergency team evaluated ergonomics and appropriateness for IHED at Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital. A measurement protocol was implemented, which aimed to assess the ability of defibrillators to recognize shockable and nonshockable rhythms, accuracy of delivered energy, and charging time.

Results: Designs of AEDs differed in several features which influence their appropriateness for IHED. Some units showed poor ergonomics and instructions/feedback for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Differences between defibrillators in recognizing shockable and nonshockable rhythms emerged for polymorphic ventricular tachycardia waveforms and when the frequency and amplitude of input signals varied. Tests for accuracy revealed poor performances at low and high impedance levels for most AEDs. Notably, differences greater than 20 seconds were found in the time from power-on to “ready for discharge.”

Conclusions: The approach we used to assess AEDs allowed us to evaluate their appropriateness with respect to the organizational context, to measure their parameters, and to compare models. Results showed that ergonomics and/or performances (timing and accuracy) could be improved in each device.
Aspects of the biology of the parasitic copepods Lepeophtheirus salmonis and Caligus elongatus on farmed salmonids, and their treatment
Authors: Wootten R. , Smith John W. , Needham E. A.
Published: February 2014

Synopsis

The general biology and pathology of Lepeophtheirus salmonis and Caligus elongatus and the prevention and treatment of such ‘sea-lice’ infestations on farmed salmonids are described from the literature and original observations. The life-cycle of L. salmonis and probably also that of C. elongatus comprises the egg and 10 stages separated by moults, namely, two nauplius, one infective copepodite, four chalimus, two pre-adult and the adult (male and female) stages. Water temperature greatly affects the rate of development, especially for early larval stages. Heavy infestations of wild fish seem rare, and lice are lost fairly rapidly in freshwater. In Scotland at least L. salmonis shows a succession of generations on farmed salmonids; generation time is about six weeks at 9–12 C. Post-chalimus stages of C. elongatus may exchange between farmed salmonids and wild fish (especially gadoids). Epizootics (particularly with L. salmonis) cause great damage to salmonids in Norwegian and Scottish farms largely through feeding on host skin. The dermis is oedematous and haemorrhaged where lice feed, and blood seeps between scales; deaths probably result from osmoregulatory failure. Whilst prevention of infestation is difficult, a bath treatment for 1 h with 1 ppm of the organophosphorus compound Dichlorvos is effective against post-chalimus stages of L. salmonis on caged salmonids. Side effects are minimal and clearance rates from fish tissues satisfactory, but treatment may be required every 3–4 weeks.
The Dynamics of Space and Resistance in Muhammad ‘Azīz's Tahrir Square: The Revolution of the People and the Genius of the Place
Authors: AMIN SALWA RASHAD
Published: February 2014

Tahrir Square: The Revolution of the People and the Genius of the Place (February 2011) by Muhammad ‘Azīz (1955–) documents how Egyptian youth played a leading role in coordinating and organizing the 25 January 2011 revolution through social media networking and how the battle fought at Tahrir Square exemplifies genuine human networking. ‘Azīz's play constructs its social and historical grounding as a fabulous mix between the real, the fictional and the virtual. It reimagines the possibilities of political theatre in the context of postmodern virtuality. This study explores how realism can incorporate other worlds as a way of rethinking theatre and politics in a richly multicultural, post-revolutionary Egypt. It illuminates Egyptians’ complexities, where individualities are reinforced against an oppressive regime. This analysis focuses on the dynamics of space and resistance, as multiple selves move from individualistic, alienated spaces towards connection through the space of resistance and shared political activity.
Competing Institutional Perspectives in the Life of Glass–Steagall
Authors: Wallach Philip A.
Published: February 2014

A growing body of scholarship explores processes of gradual but transformative institutional change, classifying patterns of change into several categories. I argue that policymakers themselves actively contest the appropriate institutional frames for understanding changes as they seek to guide institutional change, and show that judicial determinations of statutory meaning are sensitive to judgments about which institutional perspective is most compelling. A process-tracing examination of institutional changes in the Glass–Steagall Act over the law's whole life span, from 1933 to 1999, provides a concrete example of how the dynamics of contestation can play out. Those who conceived of Glass–Steagall as the institutional embodiment of the separation between commercial and investment banking argued that expansion of commercial bank powers represented institutional drift. Alternatively, those who came to see Glass–Steagall as just one set of statutory imperatives to be handled within the larger institutional context of American banking law, including banking regulators, interpreted regulatory changes as constructive acts of conversion adapting to novel economic challenges. I document the slow process through which courts came to accept the second framing while noting how the fixity of statutory text nevertheless continued to limit available adaptations.
First use of an intra-pericardial continuous flow ventricular assist device in a child with muscular dystrophy
Authors: Davies Ryan R. , Priest Marc , Pizarro Christian
Published: February 2014

Heart failure is a common cause of death in patients with muscular dystrophy. Mechanical support may be an important component of long-term heart failure therapy in these patients. We present a report of a child with muscular dystrophy successfully implanted with a Heartware HVAD.
Towards Mapping Electrostatic Potentials in Semiconductor Devices Under Working Conditions Using Off-Axis Electron Holography
Authors: Yazdi S. , Kasama T. , McComb D.W. , Harrison A.C. , Dunin-Borkowski R.E.
Published: February 2014

Extended abstract of a paper presented at Microscopy and Microanalysis 2013 in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, August 4 – August 8, 2013.
Bringing the Party Back In: How the DPJ Diminished Prospects for Japanese Agricultural Trade Liberalization under the TPP
Authors: GEORGE MULGAN AURELIA
Published: February 2014

Changes to the institutional structure of trade policymaking are important to understanding why Japan remained largely on the sidelines of the Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership (TPP) negotiations in 2010-2012. The Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) embarked on a series of changes to policymaking institutions, which initially empowered the prime minister and cabinet at the expense of pro-agriculture backbenchers in the ruling party. However, the potential for a breakthrough on farm trade substantially diminished as the institutional reforms were reversed, allowing political supporters of domestic farm interests once more to assert their voice and influence in trade policymaking. Tracing the process of DPJ government decision-making on the TPP reveals that ‘bringing the party back in’ was a major factor in preventing Japan's formally joining the TPP negotiations, despite the strong pro-TPP sentiments of DPJ prime ministers, thus limiting prospects for agricultural trade liberalization.