bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stressful life events and depressive symptoms among symptomatic long QT syndrome patients
Authors: Hintsa Taina , Jokela Markus , Elovainio Marko , Määttänen Ilmari , Swan Heikki , Hintsanen Mirka , Toivonen Lauri , Kontula Kimmo , Keltikangas-Järvinen Liisa
Published: April 2014

We examined whether long QT syndrome status moderates the association between stressful life events and depressive symptoms. Participants were 562 ( n = 246 symptomatic) long QT syndrome mutation carriers. Depressive symptoms were measured with a modified version of the Beck’s Depression Inventory. There was an interaction between long QT syndrome status and stressful life events on depressive symptoms. In the symptomatic long QT syndrome patients, stressful life events were associated with depressive symptoms ( B = 0.24, p < 0.001). In the asymptomatic long QT syndrome mutation carriers, this association was 62.5 percent weaker ( B = 0.09, p = 0.057). Compared to asymptomatic long QT syndrome mutation carriers, symptomatic long QT syndrome patients are more sensitive to the depressive effects of stressful life events.
Depression and disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A comprehensive meta-regression analysis
Authors: Pagnini Francesco , Manzoni Gian Mauro , Tagliaferri Aurora , Gibbons Chris J
Published: April 2014

Depression in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a fatal and progressive neurodegenerative disorder, is a serious issue with important clinical consequences. However, physical impairment may confound the diagnosis when using generic questionnaires. We conducted a comprehensive review of literature. Mean scores from depression questionnaires were meta-regressed on study-level mean time since onset of symptoms. Data from 103 studies (3190 subjects) indicate that the Beck Depression Inventory and, to a lesser degree, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale are influenced by the time since symptom onset, strongly related to physical impairment. Our results suggest that widely used depression scales overestimate depression due to confounding with physical symptoms.
A survey investigation of the associated effect of using air conditioning equipment on children’s health in Nanjing
Authors: Qian Hua , Zheng Xiaohong , Zhou Lian , Chen Xiaodong , Yu Chuck W. F.
Published: April 2014

A questionnaire study was conducted in Nanjing from December 2010 to March 2011 to evaluate the association of children’s health with the use of air conditioning equipment at their homes. The questionnaire was issued to parents of 4017 children aged 1–8 years old studying at 23 kindergartens located all over Nanjing in eight urban districts, two suburban districts and one industrial district. The parents of the children participated in the study filled in the questionnaire to provide information about the children’s health, home characteristics and their use of air conditioning equipment. Most families included in the study have air conditioners (91.7%) installed in their homes. Only 13.4% and 2.2% of families studied have humidifiers and air cleaners, respectively. The use of air conditioner was found to be associated with children that had pneumonia (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 1.46 (1.08–1.98), P < 0.05). The use of the humidifier was found to be associated with children having diagnosed asthma (AOR: 1.37 (1.01–1.86), P < 0.05) and rhinitis symptoms (AOR: 1.28 (1.06–1.55), P < 0.05). The use of air cleaner was also found to be associated with children having diagnosed asthma (AOR: 1.94 (1.07–3.50), P < 0.05). The use of air conditioning equipment was therefore found to be related to children that had or being experienced allergic respiratory diseases.
Measurements of indoor environmental conditions in Italian classrooms and their impact on children’s comfort
Authors: De Giuli Valeria , Zecchin Roberto , Corain Livio , Salmaso Luigi
Published: April 2014

This study evaluates the indoor environmental conditions and children’s comfort levels in 8 classrooms in three Italian primary schools. It is a development of a pilot study previously carried out by the authors in other educational buildings. Spot and long-term measurements were made to evaluate microclimatic conditions (i.e. air temperature, relative humidity, CO2 concentration, and illuminance). A questionnaire, distributed three times, investigated the students’ perception of thermal and lighting comfort, their satisfaction with building-related factors, and their interactions with the environment. Predicted mean vote and predicted percentage dissatisfied indexes were calculated and an adaptive approach was also applied, but their results did not correspond to the students’ subjective evaluation of thermal comfort. An innovative multivariate ranking method was developed as a possible tool to assess building stocks in order to establish priorities for repair, maintenance, and refurbishment. The problem which the students complained about the most was the thermal comfort in the hot season and solar penetration. Moreover, the school with the worst microclimatic conditions was also judged the worst for building-related and psychological factors.
Lifestyles and the adoption of information versus entertainment technologies: An examination on the adoption of six new technologies in Taiwan
Authors: Li Shu-Chu Sarrina
Published: April 2014

Using Rogers’ diffusion of innovation model, this study examined the relationships between lifestyles and the adoption of six new technologies in Taiwan. Three of the six technologies—notebooks, netbooks, and tablet PCs—are information technologies, while the remaining three technologies—Wii, Kinect, and digital videos (DVs)—are entertainment technologies. A telephone survey was adopted to obtain a representative sample, which obtained 1157 valid calls with a response rate of 53.1%. Two conclusions are drawn from the data analysis. First, lifestyles did play a significant role in predicting the adoption of the six technologies. Second, this study found that demographics and mass media use were more predictive of the adoption of information technologies than that of the adoption of entertainment technologies.
Performing a future (in) performing a past: Identity, cultural performance, and the Utopian impulse
Authors: Whigham Kerry
Published: April 2014

This article examines three performances of cultural identity that occur or have occurred in three European cities that rely heavily on the tourism industry: Barcelona, Krakow, and Venice. Taking as its starting point the claim of tourism studies scholar John Urry that “social identities emerge … out of particular structures of feeling that bind together three elements—space, time, and memory,” the article analyzes how three cultural performances variously perform sentiments of nationalism, progress, and nostalgia to portray a specific image of cultural identity. In doing so, these performances provide a deep insight into the cultural values of the performers and how they wish their culture to be experienced by visiting outsiders. Furthermore, the article examines how all three of these cultural performances contain within them a Utopian impulse, or a wish to inscribe a new future for the given culture.
The impact of light source technology and colour temperature on the well-being, mental state and concentration of shop assistants
Authors: Denk E , Jimenez P , Schulz B
Published: April 2014

This study examined the impact of light source (LED and HID) and correlated colour temperature (warm-white and neutral-white) on the well-being, mental state and concentration of shop assistants. The experimental design was a 2 × 2 design with repeated measures and complete permutation on all factor combinations with 48 participating shop assistants. Results showed effects of the colour temperature on the well-being and mental state of the shop assistants. No effects of light source could be found for the explored variables. Warm-white colour temperature positively affects the intensity of well-being and mental state and negatively affects the power of concentration.
Does the Three-Point Rule Make Soccer More Exciting? Evidence From a Regression Discontinuity Design
Authors: Hon Lee Yoong , Parinduri Rasyad A.
Published: April 2014

We examine whether the three-point rule—the increase in rewards for a win from two to three points that the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) adopted in 1995—makes Bundesliga games become more exciting. Using regression discontinuity design as the empirical strategy, we do not find evidence that the three-point rule makes games more decisive, increases the number of goals, or decreases goal differences. We only find some evidence that the three-point rule increases the second-half goals of losing first-half teams. Overall, our results suggest that, in the case of Bundesliga games, the three-point rule does not work as FIFA intended.
Antitumor Activities of Rauwolfia vomitoria Extract and Potentiation of Gemcitabine Effects Against Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yu Jun , Chen Qi
Published: April 2014

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies with very limited treatment option. In the effort of enhancing the effect of the conventional chemotherapeutic drug gemcitabine against pancreatic cancer, we investigated in vitro and in vivo the anticancer effect of a β-carboline-enriched extract from the plant Rauwolfia vomitoria (Rau), either alone or in combination with gemcitabine, in preclinical pancreatic cancer models. Rau induced apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells in a concentration-dependent manner, and completely inhibited colony formation of PANC-1 cells in soft agar. The combination of Rau and gemcitabine had synergistic effect in inhibiting cell growth with dose reduction effect for gemcitabine. In an orthotopic pancreatic cancer mouse model, PANC-1 tumor growth was significantly suppressed by Rau treatment. Metastasis was inhibited by Rau. Adding Rau to gemcitabine treatment reduced tumor burden and metastatic potential in the gemcitabine non-responsive tumor. These data suggest that Rau possesses anti–pancreatic cancer activity and could improve effect of gemcitabine.
The inhibitory effect of iridoid glycoside extracted from Fructus Gardeniae on intracellular acidification and extracellular Ca2+ influx induced by influenza A virus
Authors: Guo Shanshan , Gao Yingjie , Jin Yahong , Tian Xuechuan , Cui Xiaolan
Published: April 2014

Influenza is a serious public health problem that causes severe illnesses and deaths for higher risk populations. Iridoid glycoside is one of the main active components from Fructus Gardeniae with antivirus and anti-inflammatory characteristics. The present study was designed to investigate the inhibitory effect of iridoid glycoside extracted from Fructus Gardeniae (IGE) on influenza and explore the potential mechanism of the action. In vitro, IGE exhibited highest activity against influenza virus A/FM1/47 induced visible cytopathic effect (CPE), with half maximal inhibitory concentration and therapeutic index values of 3.15 mg/mL and 11.37, respectively, and the replication of influenza virus A/FM1/47 was inhibited markedly by IGE at the concentrations of 25, 12.5 and 6.25 mg/mL. In vivo, treatment of mice with IGE decreased pulmonary index, viral titers and M2 protein expression in a dose-dependent manner. IGE increased the declining pHi induced by influenza virus significantly at the concentrations of 25 and 12.5 mg/mL 0.5 or 1 h post-infection, respectively. IGE treatment inhibited elevation of [Ca2+]i significantly at the concentrations of 25 and 12.5 mg/mL 0.5, 1 or 24 h post-infection, respectively. In addition, IGE reduced the rate of early-apoptotic cells at the concentrations of 25, 12.5 and 6.25 mg/mL, but showed no apparent effect on the rate of late-apoptotic cells. Our study demonstrates that IGE possesses antiviral activity against influenza A virus, and the antiviral action might be related to the inhibition of intracellular acidification and Ca2+ influx during fusion and uncoating of influenza replication cycle.
Advances of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of cartilage defects: A systematic review
Authors: Gopal Kaliappan , Amirhamed Haji Alizadeh , Kamarul Tunku
Published: April 2014

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapies represent a new option for treating damaged cartilage. However, the outcomes following its clinical application have seldom been previously compared. The present paper presents the systematic review of current literatures on MSC-based therapy for cartilage repair in clinical applications. Ovid, Scopus, PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge and Google Scholar online databases were searched using several keywords, which include “cartilage” and “stem cells”. Only studies using bone marrow-derived MSC (BM-MSC) to treat cartilage defects clinically were included in this review. The clinical outcomes were compared, and the quality of the tissue repair was analysed where possible. Of the 996 articles, only six ( n = 6) clinical studies have described the use of BM-MSC in clinical applications. Two studies were cohort observational trials, three were case series, and one was a case report. In the two comparative trials, BM-MSCs produced superior repair to cartilage treatment without cells and have comparable outcomes to autologous chondrocyte implantation. The case series and case–control studies have demonstrated that use of BM-MSCs resulted in better short- to long-term clinical outcomes with minimal complications. In addition, histological analyses in two studies have resulted in good repair tissue formation at the damaged site, composed mainly of hyaline-like cartilage. Although results of the respective studies are highly indicative that BM-MSC-based therapy is superior, due to the differences in methods and selection criteria used, it was not possible to make direct comparison between the studies. In conclusion, published studies do suggest that BM-MSCs could provide superior cartilage repair. However, due to limited number of reports, more robust studies might be required before a definitive conclusion can be drawn.
In vitro platforms for evaluating liver toxicity
Authors: Bale Shyam Sundhar , Vernetti Lawrence , Senutovitch Nina , Jindal Rohit , Hegde Manjunath , Gough Albert , McCarty William J , Bakan Ahmet , Bhushan Abhinav , Shun Tong Y , Golberg Inna , DeBiasio Richard , Usta O Berk , Taylor D Lansing , Yarmush Martin L
Published: April 2014

The liver is a heterogeneous organ with many vital functions, including metabolism of pharmaceutical drugs and is highly susceptible to injury from these substances. The etiology of drug-induced liver disease is still debated although generally regarded as a continuum between an activated immune response and hepatocyte metabolic dysfunction, most often resulting from an intermediate reactive metabolite. This debate stems from the fact that current animal and in vitro models provide limited physiologically relevant information, and their shortcomings have resulted in “silent” hepatotoxic drugs being introduced into clinical trials, garnering huge financial losses for drug companies through withdrawals and late stage clinical failures. As we advance our understanding into the molecular processes leading to liver injury, it is increasingly clear that (a) the pathologic lesion is not only due to liver parenchyma but is also due to the interactions between the hepatocytes and the resident liver immune cells, stellate cells, and endothelial cells; and (b) animal models do not reflect the human cell interactions. Therefore, a predictive human, in vitro model must address the interactions between the major human liver cell types and measure key determinants of injury such as the dosage and metabolism of the drug, the stress response, cholestatic effect, and the immune and fibrotic response. In this mini-review, we first discuss the current state of macro-scale in vitro liver culture systems with examples that have been commercialized. We then introduce the paradigm of microfluidic culture systems that aim to mimic the liver with physiologically relevant dimensions, cellular structure, perfusion, and mass transport by taking advantage of micro and nanofabrication technologies. We review the most prominent liver-on-a-chip platforms in terms of their physiological relevance and drug response. We conclude with a commentary on other critical advances such as the deployment of fluorescence-based biosensors to identify relevant toxicity pathways, as well as computational models to create a predictive tool.
Hypermethylation-mediated transcriptional repression of TMPRSS2 in androgen receptor-negative prostate cancer cells
Authors: Chu Mingliang , Chang Yunli , Wang Naitao , Li Wang , Li Ping , Gao Wei-Qiang
Published: April 2014

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer for men in the developed world. Androgen receptor (AR) is very important in prostate cancer progression. TMPRSS2 is an AR signaling downstream gene and closely related to prostate carcinogenesis. DNA methylation is a key mechanism to influence gene expression. Though previous reports have shown that AR signaling plays a critical role in the regulation of TMPRSS2 in prostate cancer, hardly any studies have examined whether the DNA methylation has been involved in the regulation of TMPRSS2. In the present study, we demonstrated that AR-negative prostate cancer (PCa) cells showed low expression levels and hypermethylation of TMPRSS2. In contrast, AR-positive PCa cells displayed high levels and hypomethylation of TMPRSS2. Treatment with the DNA methylation inhibitor 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine reversed the low expression levels of TMPRSS2 in the AR-negative PCa cells. Additionally, we found that the level of DNA methyltransferases 1 (DNMT1) was high in AR-negative PCa cells, in which hypermethylation of TMPRSS2 and low expression level of TMPRSS2 were observed. Collectively, these data suggest that the high level of DNMT1 might be the mechanism for the hypermethylation-mediated transcriptional repression of TMPRSS2 in AR-negative PCa cells.
Advancing OB Research
Authors: Youssef-Morgan Carolyn M.
Published: April 2014

This article traces the progression of psychological capital (PsyCap) research from its emergence to its current state, now after a decade, including a recent meta-analysis and a critical review of the PsyCap literature. PsyCap is presented here as an example of initializing, building, expanding, generalizing, and applying a new research stream in the field of organizational behavior. Emphasis is placed on the critical role of early and ongoing theory building, rigorous measurement, design and implementation of evidence-based empirical studies and interventions, and strategic collaboration across disciplines, cultures, and levels of analysis. Recommendations for assimilation, visibility, and moving forward within the academic and professional communities are offered.
Differentiating Shame from Embarrassment
Authors: Crozier W. Ray
Published: April 2014

Questions about the relation between shame and embarrassment are often posed in discussion of emotion but have rarely been examined at length. In this study I assemble and examine distinctions that have been proposed in the literature with the aim of identifying the criteria that have been used to differentiate shame and embarrassment. Relevant empirical studies are also reviewed. Despite the attention paid to the question of the difference between shame and embarrassment consensus on differentiating criteria has not been reached nor has there been consideration of what kind of question is being posed. Three positions that have been adopted are identified and critically evaluated.
Training tomorrow’s global health leaders: applying a transtheoretical model to identify behavior change stages within an intervention for health leadership development
Authors: Daniels Joseph , Farquhar Carey , Nathanson Neal , Mashalla Yohana , Petracca Frances , Desmond Michelle , Green Wendy , Davies Luke , O’Malley Gabrielle ,   Afya Bora Consortium Working Group Members, Bollinger Bob , Farquhar Carey , Gachuno Onesmus , Glass Nancy , Kaaya Ephata , Mashalla Yohana , Muecke Marjorie , Nakanjako Damalie , Nathanson Neal , Odero Theresa , Seloilwe Esther , Sewankambo Nelson , Stewart Christopher , Urassa David , Voss Joachim , Wasserheit Judith N.
Published: April 2014

Training health professionals in leadership and management skills is a key component of health systems strengthening in low-resource settings. The importance of evaluating the effectiveness of these programs has received increased attention over the past several years, although such evaluations continue to pose significant challenges. This article presents evaluation data from the pilot year of the Afya Bora Fellowship, an African-based training program to increase the leadership capacity of health professionals. Firstly, we describe the goals of the Afya Bora Fellowship. Then, we present an adaptation of the transtheoretical model for behavior change called the Health Leadership Development Model, as an analytical lens to identify and describe evidence of individual leadership behavior change among training participants during and shortly after the pilot year of the program. The Health Leadership Development Model includes the following: pre-contemplation (status quo), contemplation (testing and internalizing leadership), preparation – (moving toward leadership), action (leadership in action), and maintenance (effecting organizational change). We used data from surveys, in-depth interviews, journal entries and course evaluations as data points to populate the Health Leadership Development Model. In the short term, fellows demonstrated increased leadership development during and shortly after the intervention and reflected the contemplation, preparation and action stages of the Health Leadership Development Model. However, expanded interventions and/or additional time may be needed to support behavior change toward the maintenance stages. We conclude that the Health Leadership Development Model is useful for informing health leadership training design and evaluation to contribute to sustainable health organizational change.
Risk Behaviors among Suburban Women Who Use Methamphetamine
Authors: Lamonica Aukje , Boeri Miriam
Published: April 2014

We propose that female methamphetamine users who live in suburbia experience risks for disease transmission stemming from their social environment that remain under the radar of public health surveillance networks. The data analyzed in this article were collected from 2007 to 2011 and were drawn from two sequential studies on methamphetamine use. The studies were conducted in the suburbs of a southeastern U.S. metropolis. We analyzed a total of 65 qualitative interviews with former and active methamphetamine-using women. Data from focus groups also were included in the analysis. The participants’ ages ranged from 18 to 51 years. We identified three major themes with regard to risk behaviors and transmission of infectious diseases: (1) setting risk behaviors such as sharing syringes and homelessness, lack of transportation, and unemployment; (2) sexual risk behaviors such as condom use and having multiple partners; and (3) service-related risks such as risk awareness and prevention behaviors as well as utilization of social services and health care. Our findings point to the pervasive nature of social influences on the risk for infectious disease transmission. We suggest that harm-reduction programs (HRPs) be implemented in suburban communities to increase access to these services. Second, our data support the concept of social recovery for drug users to better their health and social lives holistically.
Retrospective Comparative Study of Operative Repair of Hammertoe Deformity
Authors: Sung Wenjay , Weil Lowell , Weil Lowell Scott
Published: April 2014

Background. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of patients with second hammertoe deformities who underwent correction using either joint resection arthroplasty, proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) arthrodesis without osteotomy, or interpositional implant arthroplasty. Methods. Medical records from patients who underwent second PIP correction from July 1999 to December 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 114 patients (136 second toes) were the basis for this retrospective comparative study. The average final follow-up with weight-bearing radiographs of the 136 procedures at the second toe was 53.8 months. Results. All 3 groups had significantly reduced VAS scores postoperatively (P < .01). Also, all groups had significant radiographic correction in the average measured lateral angle of the second PIP joint (P < .01). However, the interpositional implant group had significantly corrected the second PIP joint in the axial plane, with an average postoperative anterior-posterior (AP) angle of 2.9° (P < .01). The postoperative AP angle was also significantly different compared with the postoperative AP angles of the other 2 groups (P < .01). Discussion. Our study confirms that all 3 techniques provide adequate pain relief and radiographic sagittal plane correction. However, interpositional implant arthroplasty provides significant radiographic correction in the axial plane.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic Level III, Retrospective comparative study
Organizational Theory and Leadership Navigation
Authors: Brazer S. David , Kruse Sharon D. , Conley Sharon
Published: April 2014

Teaching organizational theory in a way that bridges to leadership practice is vital to preparing deft educational leaders who understand the organizational behavior of schools and districts. Organizational theory guides understanding of the complexities of schools and districts and can be a basis for collaborative and effective decision making. This article suggests specific theory that could be taught, strategies for teaching it that are illuminated by examples of student work, and benefits that are likely to accrue.
Single surgeon experience of augmentation ileocystoplasty in the management of refractory idiopathic detrusor overactivity
Authors: Pisipati Sailaja , Khan Faisal , Kinder Richard B
Published: April 2014

Background:

Until a decade ago, augmentation ileocystoplasty (AIC) was the only major advancement over anti-muscarinics for intractable idiopathic detrusor overactivity (IDO). Clam ileocystoplasty has been proposed to restore continence and preserve urethral voiding. While intravesical botulinum and neuromodulation have revolutionised the treatment of this condition, arguably there remains a place for bladder augmentation in the surgical armamentarium.

Objective:

This study presents a single surgeon experience of clam ileocystoplasty performed for intractable IDO at our institution.

Methods:

A retrospective case-note review was performed over a 9-year period. Data on basic patient demographics, urodynamic findings, pre-operative treatments administered, post-operative complications and response to surgery were documented.

Results:

In total, 22 patients were identified with a median age of 42.4 years. The predominant symptoms were urgency (100%) and urge incontinence (96%). All our patients were incontinent pre-operatively with 59% using pads. Ambulatory cystometry was helpful in 27% patients in whom standard +/- video studies were inconclusive. Of the cohort, 100%, 82% and 55% had one, two and three anticholinergics, respectively. Only 18% received intravesical botulinum toxin A pre-operatively. Some 77% were cured of their storage symptoms and incontinence; 18% had residual incontinence. Of these, genuine urodynamic stress incontinence was demonstrated in 9% and improved with tension-free vaginal tape. Some 9% had Clavien 3b complications requiring laparotomy. Mortality was nil.

Conclusion:

In young patients with refractory IDO, clam ileocystoplasty serves as a permanent, effective technique for symptom reduction and restoration of continent urethral voiding with few complications.
De-novo synthesis of 2-phenylethanol by Enterobactersp. CGMCC 5087
Authors: Zhang Haibo , Cao Mingle , Jiang Xinglin , Zou Huibin , Wang Cong , Xu Xin , Xian Mo
Published: April 2014

Background

2-phenylethanl (2-PE) and its derivatives are important chemicals, which are widely used in food materials and fine chemical industries and polymers and it’s also a potentially valuable alcohol for next-generation biofuel. However, the biosynthesis of 2-PE are mainly biotransformed from phenylalanine, the price of which barred the production. Therefore, it is necessary to seek more sustainable technologies for 2-PE production.

Results

A new strain which produces 2-PE through the phenylpyruvate pathway was isolated and identified as Enterobacter sp. CGMCC 5087. The strain is able to use renewable monosaccharide as the carbon source and NH4Cl as the nitrogen source to produce 2-PE. Two genes of rate-limiting enzymes, chorismate mutase p-prephenate dehydratase (PheA) and 3-deoxy-d-arabino-heptulosonic acid 7-phosphate synthase (DAHP), were cloned from Escherichia coli and overexpressed in E. sp. CGMCC 5087. The engineered E. sp. CGMCC 5087 produces 334.9 mg L-1 2-PE in 12 h, which is 3.26 times as high as the wild strain.

Conclusions

The phenylpyruvate pathway and the substrate specificity of 2-keto-acid decarboxylase towards phenylpyruvate were found in E. sp. CGMCC 5087. Combined with the low-cost monosaccharide as the substrate, the finding provides a novel and potential way for 2-PE production.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Enhanced resistive switching memory characteristics and mechanism using a Ti nanolayer at the W/TaOx interface
Authors: Prakash Amit , Maikap Siddheswar , Chiu Hsien-Chin , Tien Ta-Chang , Lai Chao-Sung
Published: April 2014

Enhanced resistive memory characteristics with 10,000 consecutive direct current switching cycles, long read pulse endurance of >105 cycles, and good data retention of >104 s with a good resistance ratio of >102 at 85°C are obtained using a Ti nanolayer to form a W/TiO
x
/TaO
x
/W structure under a low current operation of 80 μA, while few switching cycles are observed for W/TaO
x
/W structure under a higher current compliance >300 μA. The low resistance state decreases with increasing current compliances from 10 to 100 μA, and the device could be operated at a low RESET current of 23 μA. A small device size of 150 × 150 nm2 is observed by transmission electron microscopy. The presence of oxygen-deficient TaO
x
nanofilament in a W/TiO
x
/TaO
x
/W structure after switching is investigated by Auger electron spectroscopy. Oxygen ion (negative charge) migration is found to lead to filament formation/rupture, and it is controlled by Ti nanolayer at the W/TaO
x
interface. Conducting nanofilament diameter is estimated to be 3 nm by a new method, indicating a high memory density of approximately equal to 100 Tbit/in.2.
Construction sequence of the Koh Ker monuments in Cambodia deduced from the chemical composition and magnetic susceptibility of its laterites
Authors: Uchida Etsuo , Tsuda Kojiro , Shimoda Ichita
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Koh Ker, one of the provincial cities of the Khmer Empire, was located approximately 85 km northeast of the Angkor monuments. The temples in the Koh Ker monuments were mainly constructed from laterite, sandstone and brick between 921 and 944 AD. The laterites used in the Koh Ker monuments are difficult to classify based on their appearance. However, using a portable X-ray fluorescence analyzer it was possible to distinguish two distinct types of laterite based on Sr content.

Results

Laterite blocks used in construction of the Koh Ker monuments either had a low Sr content of less than 300 ppm or a high Sr content of greater than 400 ppm. Significant quantities of quartz were observed in the low Sr content laterites, whereas the high Sr content laterites had relatively low quartz content. Differences in the magnetic susceptibility also were observed for these laterites. Using both Sr contents and magnetic susceptibilities of the laterite blocks, in combination with the assumption that the construction site proceeded in an outward manner, we identified five distinct laterite types associated with different stages of construction.

Conclusions

Five different stages of construction were identified in the buildings of the Koh Ker monuments; each stage is characterized by a different laterite source rock. We believe that the brick sanctuaries are the oldest buildings, followed by the sandstone sanctuaries, while the laterite sanctuaries were constructed last. The laterite blocks with high Sr content were likely supplied from quarries around the Srayang village, which is located immediately to the south of the Koh Ker monuments; provenance of the low Sr content laterites is yet to be determined.
Identification of Criticality in Neuronal Avalanches: II. A Theoretical and Empirical Investigation of the Driven Case
Authors: Hartley Caroline , Taylor Timothy J , Kiss Istvan Z , Farmer Simon F , Berthouze Luc
Published: April 2014

The observation of apparent power laws in neuronal systems has led to the suggestion that the brain is at, or close to, a critical state and may be a self-organised critical system. Within the framework of self-organised criticality a separation of timescales is thought to be crucial for the observation of power-law dynamics and computational models are often constructed with this property. However, this is not necessarily a characteristic of physiological neural networks—external input does not only occur when the network is at rest/a steady state. In this paper we study a simple neuronal network model driven by a continuous external input (i.e. the model does not have an explicit separation of timescales from seeding the system only when in the quiescent state) and analytically tuned to operate in the region of a critical state (it reaches the critical regime exactly in the absence of input—the case studied in the companion paper to this article). The system displays avalanche dynamics in the form of cascades of neuronal firing separated by periods of silence. We observe partial scale-free behaviour in the distribution of avalanche size for low levels of external input. We analytically derive the distributions of waiting times and investigate their temporal behaviour in relation to different levels of external input, showing that the system’s dynamics can exhibit partial long-range temporal correlations. We further show that as the system approaches the critical state by two alternative ‘routes’, different markers of criticality (partial scale-free behaviour and long-range temporal correlations) are displayed. This suggests that signatures of criticality exhibited by a particular system in close proximity to a critical state are dependent on the region in parameter space at which the system (currently) resides.
Association between dietary intake and seasonal variations in postmenopausal women
Authors: Mansour Asieh , Ahadi Zeinab , Qorbani Mostafa , Hosseini Saeed
Published: April 2014

Background

Evidence supports that increasing number of postmenopausal women are suffering from one or more chronic diseases. Dietary patterns have a pivotal role in maintaining human health. The aim of this study was to characterize the nutrients and energy intake in postmenopausal women, with the special focus on seasonal variation effect in their food intake.

Methods

The study population consisted of 30 postmenopausal women referred to Dr. Shariati Hospital, Tehran (Iran). Socio-demographic characteristics and BMI were registered. Dietary assessment was performed by a 3 day food records in each season through one year, allowing the estimation of energy, protein, carbohydrate, total fat, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and saturated fatty acids (SFA) intake. The mean of nutrient intake in each season was adjusted for energy intake. The effect of season on energy and nutrients intake was assessed based on the General linear model (GLM).

Results

The mean of daily intake of vitamin C, B, B2, B12, iron, zinc, phosphorus and chromium was significantly higher than Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDAs ) (p < 0.05). The mean of vitamin D, E, B6, B5, folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium and selenium consumption was significantly less than RDAs (p < 0.05). All the participants meet the goal for vitamins A, K and B3 from food. The mean of energy intake was not different between seasons. However, the mean intake of fat, vitamin C, vitamin K and folate was significantly different between seasons.

Conclusion

These findings highlight some nutrients deficiency in postmenopausal women and therefore suggest nutritional education with emphasis on seasonal variation effect.
Integrated characterization of hydraulic fracture treatments in the Barnett Shale: The Stocker geophysical experiment
Authors: Roy Baishali , Hart Bruce , Mironova Anastasia , Zhou Changxi , Zimmer Ulrich
Published: April 2014

We integrated several independent geophysical and geologic methods to examine the effects of stratigraphic and structural heterogeneities on the growth of hydraulic fracture networks from two horizontal wells in the Barnett Shale, Fort Worth Basin, Texas. Our data set included time-lapse 3D seismic surveys, microseismic data, wireline logs, and distributed temperature sensing (DTS) data. We first created a local stratigraphic framework using wireline logs. In our area, the lower Barnett Shale consists of siliceous mudstones (the primary reservoir) intercalated with carbonate submarine fan deposits. The latter are low porosity (i.e., nonreservoir) and, if thick enough are potential baffles to the growth of hydraulic fractures. We used stochastic inversion to define the 3D distribution of fan lobes with much better resolution than could be obtained using deterministic inversion and obtained a geologically reasonable lithology prediction. The lowest of the fan lobes partially overlies the two horizontal wells, and its limits could be defined using wireline logs, the stochastic inversion, and seismic attributes (e.g., coherence, seismic facies classification). As suggested by the distribution of microseismic events, the extent of this lobe (locally up to 80 ft/24-m-thick) had a significant impact on the growth of the hydraulic fracture networks. The DTS data showed that high production correlates to dense microseismic activity in this area. Our time-lapse seismic analyses suggested that velocity changes induced by the hydraulic injections are detectable, although (largely because of logistical problems) the data were inadequately sampled to quantitatively define these changes. Alone, none of the analyses described herein provided an adequate understanding of the subsurface. However, once integrated, our multidisciplinary work provided a coherent, if still largely qualitative, understanding of the relationships between the geology and the growth of hydraulic fracture networks and some of the geophysical and engineering methods that can be used to define those links.
Interpretation of fractures and stress anisotropy in Marcellus Shale using multicomponent seismic data
Authors: Far Mehdi E. , Hardage Bob
Published: April 2014

Using a data set from the Marcellus Shale, we evaluated the advantages of multicomponent seismic data for fracture and anisotropy studies over conventional P-wave data. Using traveltime and amplitude analysis on pre- and poststack seismic data, we concluded that PS-waves can provide more accurate information about the location, orientation, and intensity of natural fractures and stress anisotropy than P-waves. Our analysis indicated that regional stress was the main cause of velocity anisotropy. Amplitude variation with offset and azimuth appeared to be more useful for fracture studies, whereas traveltime variations (especially PS-waves) provided a better indication of regional stress orientations. Principal directions for amplitudes and traveltimes of PP- and PS-waves were different. Misalignment of PP- and PS-waves principal directions suggested that the simplest, most realistic anisotropy model for the fractured Marcellus is monoclinic symmetry.
Associations between common mental disorders and sexual dissatisfaction in the general population
Authors: Vanwesenbeeck Ine , ten Have Margreet , de Graaf Ron
Published: April 2014

Background

Little is known about the associations between common mental disorders and sexual dissatisfaction in the general population.

Aims

To assess the associations between the presence of 12-month and remitted (lifetime minus 12-month) mood, anxiety and substance use disorders and sexual dissatisfaction in the general population of The Netherlands.

Method

A total of 6646 participants, aged 18–64, took part in a face-to-face survey using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview 3.0. Childhood trauma, somatic disorders and sexual dissatisfaction were also assessed in an additional questionnaire. Associations were assessed with multivariate regression analyses.

Results

In total, 29% reported some sexual dissatisfaction. Controlling for demography, somatic disorders and childhood trauma, significant associations with 12-month mood disorder (B = 0.31), substance use disorder (B = 0.23) and anxiety disorder (B = 0.16) were found. Specifically, relatively strong associations were found for alcohol dependence (B = 0.54), bipolar disorder (B = 0.45) and drug dependence (B = 0.44). The association between remitted disorders and sexual dissatisfaction showed significance for the category substance use disorder.

Conclusions

People with mood, anxiety and substance use disorders show elevated scores on sexual dissatisfaction, even when relevant confounders are controlled for. Sexual satisfaction appears to be reduced most by alcohol and drug dependence and bipolar disorder. Once remitted, substance use disorder shows a persisting association with present sexual dissatisfaction.
Impact of depressive episodes on cognitive deficits in early bipolar disorder: data from the Systematic Treatment Optimization Programme for Early Mania (STOP-EM)
Authors: Muralidharan Kesavan , Torres Ivan J. , Silveira Leonardo E. , Kozicky Jan-Marie , Bücker Joana , Fernando Nadeesha , Yatham Lakshmi N.
Published: April 2014

Background

Although manic episodes reportedly contribute to cognitive deficits in bipolar I disorder, the contribution of depressive episodes is poorly researched.

Aims

We investigated the impact of depressive episodes on cognitive function early in the course of bipolar I disorder.

Method

A total of 68 patients and 38 controls from the Systematic Treatment Optimization Programme for Early Mania (STOP-EM) first-episode mania programme were examined. We conducted (a) a cross-sectional analysis of the impact of prior depressive episodes on baseline cognitive function and (b) a prospective analysis assessing the contribution of depression recurrence within 1 year following a first episode of mania on cognitive functioning.

Results

The cross-sectional analysis showed no significant differences between patients with past depressive episodes compared with those without, on overall or individual domains of cognitive function (allP>0.09). The prospective analysis failed to reveal a significant group×time interaction for cognitive decline from baseline to 1 year (P= 0.99) in patients with a recurrence of depressive episodes compared with those with no recurrence. However, impaired verbal memory at baseline was associated with a depression recurrence within 1 year.

Conclusions

Although deficits in all domains of cognitive function are seen in patients early in the course of bipolar disorder, depressive episodes do not confer additional burden on cognitive function. However, poorer verbal memory may serve as a marker for increased susceptibility to depression recurrence early in the course of illness.
Minireview: New Molecular Mediators of Glucocorticoid Receptor Activity in Metabolic Tissues
Authors: Patel Rucha , Williams-Dautovich Jasmine , Cummins Carolyn L.
Published: April 2014

The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) was one of the first nuclear hormone receptors cloned and represents one of the most effective drug targets available today for the treatment of severe inflammation. The physiologic consequences of endogenous or exogenous glucocorticoid excess are well established and include hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, fatty liver, obesity, and muscle wasting. However, at the molecular and tissue-specific level, there are still many unknown protein mediators of glucocorticoid response and thus, much remains to be uncovered that will help determine whether activation of the GR can be tailored to improve therapeutic efficacy while minimizing unwanted side effects. This review summarizes recent discoveries of tissue-selective modulators of glucocorticoid signaling that are important in mediating the unwanted side effects of therapeutic glucocorticoid use, emphasizing the downstream molecular effects of GR activation in the liver, adipose tissue, muscle, and pancreas.
Sidgwick's Axioms and Consequentialism
Authors: Shaver Robert
Published: April 2014

Sidgwick gives various tests for highest certainty. When he applies these tests to commonsense morality, he finds nothing of highest certainty. In contrast, when he applies these tests to his own axioms, he finds these axioms to have highest certainty. The axioms culminate in

Benevolence: “Each one is morally bound to regard the good of any other individual as much as his own, except in so far as he judges it to be less, when impartially viewed, or less certainly knowable or attainable by him.”

The axioms face challenges from two sides.

First, one test requires that a claim not be denied by someone of whom one has no more reason to suspect of error than oneself. For Sidgwick, then, the egoist must not deny the axioms. But it would seem that an egoist would reject benevolence.

Second, Sidgwick thinks he must show that the commonsense moralist agrees to the axioms. Benevolence seems to say that the only reason for departing from being bound to treat others like oneself is that more good would be produced. But the commonsense moralist will not agree that this is the only reason.

In reply to the threat of an egoist's disagreement, this essay argues that many of the axioms should be read as having as their antecedent “from the point of view of the universe.” The essay replies to the objection that this makes these axioms analytic.

In reply to the threat of a commonsense moralist's disagreement, this essay argues that each axiom states, in effect, a prima facie duty. The argument against the commonsense moralist concerns not benevolence but whether there are further duties that pass the tests. The essay raises the worry that here Sidgwick is unfair since sometimes he criticizes all-things-considered versions of commonsense duties; such criticisms would count against benevolence as well.