bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-time three-dimensional skeletonisation using general-purpose computing on graphics processing units applied to computer vision-based human pose estimation
Authors: Bakken Rune Havnung , Eliassen Lars Moland
Published: January 2015

Human pose estimation is the process of approximating the configuration of the body’s underlying skeletal articulation in one or more frames. The curve-skeleton of an object is a line-like representation that preserves topology and geometrical information. Finding the curve-skeleton of a volume corresponding to the person is a good starting point for approximating the underlying skeletal structure. In this paper, a GPU implementation of a fully parallel thinning algorithm based on the critical kernel framework is presented. The algorithm is compared to three other state-of-the-art skeletonisation methods—two CPU and one GPU implementation—using both real and synthetic data. It is demonstrated that all four achieve close to real-time frame rates, however, the proposed algorithm yields superior accuracy and robustness when used in a pose estimation context. The GPU implementation is > 8× faster than a CPU implementation of the same algorithm, and the positions of the 4 extremities are estimated with rms error ∼6 cm and ∼98% of frames correctly labelled for some sequences.
The Forfeiture of Nationality in France
Authors: Beauchamps Marie
Published: January 2015

This article aims to speak about the silenced effects of the forfeiture of nationality (i.e., denaturalization) through an analysis of the French law on denaturalization. The article argues that this law produces a principle of unequal citizenship and generates a differentiated understanding of national identity, through which French-born nationals enjoy an irrevocable right to nationality, whereas newly arrived nationals only have access to a conditional national identity. What are the effects of such division? And what does it tell us about the politics of national identity? Following a Foucauldian genealogical approach, the analysis reviews the effects of French former President Sarkozy’s speech in Grenoble on July 30, 2010, arguing that his discriminating views pertaining to nationality are not only a feature of contemporary politics of security and anti-immigration sentiments, but instead correspond with a differentiated approach to nationality that has been in play since the early 20th century.
The shield of professional status: Comparing internationally educated nurses’ and international medical graduates’ experiences of discrimination
Authors: Neiterman Elena , Bourgeault Ivy Lynn
Published: January 2015

This article examines the intersecting roles of gender, ethnicity, and professional status in shaping the experiences of internationally educated health professionals in Canada. The article is based on 140 semi-structured qualitative interviews with internationally trained nurses and physicians who came to Canada within past 10 years with the intention to practice their profession. Describing the challenging process of professional integration in Canada, our participants highlighted incidents of discrimination they experienced along the way. Although some of the participants from both professional groups experienced racial discrimination, the context of those experiences differed. Physicians rarely reported instances of discrimination in communication with patients or nurses. Instead, they were concerned with instances of discrimination within their own professional group. Nurses, on the other hand, reported discrimination at the hands of patients and their families as well as racialization by physicians, management, and other nurses. We conclude our article with a reflection on the role that gender and professional status play in shaping the experiences of ethnic discrimination of internationally educated health professionals.
‘Looks good on your CV’: The sociology of voluntourism recruitment in higher education
Authors: McGloin Colleen , Georgeou Nichole
Published: January 2015

The recruitment for what has become known as ‘voluntourism’ takes place on campuses at many universities in Australia. Under the banner of ‘making a difference’ students are solicited to travel to developing countries to aid poor communities, to enjoy the sights and tastes of the distant and exotic ‘other’, the ‘experience’ touted as a useful addition to the curriculum vitae (CV). This article addresses the discursive terrain of voluntourism by providing an analysis of the ways in which students are invited to participate in such cultural practices while recruiters give little or no information about the lived realities of people in poor nations. We argue that voluntourism reinforces the dominant paradigm that the poor of developing countries require the help of affluent westerners to induce development. We contend that the recruitment of students by voluntourism organisations is an example of public pedagogy that reinforces a hegemonic discourse of need.
Virtual intercultural bridgework: Social media, virtual cosmopolitanism, and activist community-building
Authors: Sobré-Denton Miriam
Published: January 2015

Social media facilitates a global–local orientation to the world that allows individuals to engage in virtual community-building and participate in communication to build global citizenship. This research situates virtual cosmopolitanism in the age of new media and globalization, describing it as a means for trans-local and transnational community-building for social justice movements and activism, including community liaison-building across corporeal borders and boundaries. New media as a site of imagined communities that become larger than their component parts is then analyzed through examining several virtual cosmopolitan communities. The essay concludes with assumptions about the qualities of virtual cosmopolitan communities, and recommendations for how they can facilitate intercultural liaisons for social justice activism and community-building across difference.
The mechanical properties of surface-treated poly-p-phenylenebenzobisoxazole fiber-reinforced PMMA composite with TiO2
Authors: Peng Chunzheng , Gang Du
Published: January 2015

Mechanical properties of hybrid poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) composites reinforced with poly- p-phenylene benzobisthiazole (PBO) fiber and nano-TiO2 (1, 3, and 5 vol.%) were investigated. In this work, the effect of PBO fiber surface treatment on tensile, flexural, and impact properties of PMMA composites were studied. The fiber loadings were varied from 0% to 20%. The addition of PBO fiber had caused a decline in the tensile strength of the PMMA composite. The three-point bending strength of the surface-treated PBO composites presents gradient increment along the TiO2 content, while the untreated one increases slowly. In case of treated PBO/PMMA composites, the impact strength noticeably increased with the PBO content. Results revealed that the presence of TiO2 on the surface-treated PBO fiber has further enhanced the efficiency of stress transfer from the matrix to the fiber thus improved the interfacial adhesion between the PBO fiber and PMMA matrix.
Polymorphisms within angiotensin II receptor type 1 gene associated with essential hypertension in Chinese Hani and Yi minorities
Authors: Yang Hongju , Bai Song , Wu Yanrui , Li Qian , Luo Fangyu , Li Bai , Jin Yanfen , Xiao Chunjie
Published: January 2015

Introduction:

Angiotensin II receptor type 1 mediates the major cardiovascular effects of angiotensin II to regulate blood pressure. Polymorphisms of angiotensin II receptor type 1 are associated with essential hypertension, but the results are inconsistent and conflicting. The aim of the present study is to assess the association between angiotensin II receptor type 1 polymorphisms and essential hypertension risk in Chinese Hani and Yi minorities.

Methods:

This study recruited 692 unrelated Chinese Hani subjects (case vs. control = 346:346) and 615 unrelated Chinese Yi subjects (case vs. control = 303:312). Twelve selected single nucleotide polymorphisms in the angiotensin II receptor type 1 gene were genotyped using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

Results:

Statistical analysis indicated that the GC+CC genotype of rs387967 was significantly associated with the decreased susceptibility to essential hypertension compared with GG in a Yi population (odds ratio = 0.58, 95% confidence intervals 0.41–0.83, P = 0.003). Allele C was a protective allele for essential hypertension (odds ratio = 0.78, 95% confidence intervals 0.61–0.99, P = 0.040). This association was confirmed respectively by comparing systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure between different genotypes and between different alleles, which indicated that the genotype (GC+CC) had a tendency of lower systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure than GG ( PSBP = 3.716 × 10–4, PDBP = 1.187 × 10–3); Carriers with C had lower systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure ( PSBP = 7.301 × 10–3, PDBP = 9.142 × 10–4). Another single nucleotide polymorphism (rs2638360) was analysed in a Hani minority, then replicated in a Yi minority. The C allele showed a consistent risk trend for essential hypertension in two independent populations (Hani: odds ratio = 1.74, 95% confidence intervals 1.01–2.99, P = 0.046; Yi: odds ratio = 1.27, 95% confidence intervals 0.82–1.96, P = 0.277). Meta-analysis revealed that the C allele could significantly increase the risk of essential hypertension (odds ratio = 1.44, 95% confidence intervals 1.02–2.02, P = 0.037).

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that rs387967 is associated with the susceptibility to essential hypertension in a Yi population and the tendency was replicated in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure detection. Meta-analysis revealed that C allele of rs2638360 could significantly increase the risk of essential hypertension. The two single nucleotide polymorphisms maybe play a role in the pathology of essential hypertension.
Glory and the Law in Hobbes
Authors: Strong Tracy B
Published: January 2015

A central argument of the Leviathan has to do with the political importance of education. Hobbes wants his book to be taught in universities and expounded much in the manner that Scripture was. Only thus will citizens realize what is in their hearts as to the nature of good political order. Glory affects this process in two ways. The pursuit of glory by a citizen leads to political chaos and disorder. On the other hand, God’s glory is such that one can do nothing but acquiesce to it. The Hobbesian sovereign shares some of the effects of glory that God has naturally; this, however, has to be supplemented by awe and that but fear.
Investigation of Dose Falloff for Intact Brain Metastases and Surgical Cavities Using Hypofractionated Volumetric Modulated Arc Radiotherapy
Authors: Ruschin Mark , Lee Young , Beachey David , Yeboah Collins , Wronski Matt , Babic Steven , Lochray Fiona , Nico Anula , Khan Luluel , Soliman Hany , Sahgal Arjun
Published: January 2015

Introduction:

Intact brain metastases tend to be small and spherical compared to postsurgery brain cavities, which tend to be large and irregular shaped and, as a result, a challenge with respect to treatment planning. The purpose of the present study is to develop guidelines for normal brain tissue dose and to investigate whether there is a dependence on target type for patients treated with hypofractionated volumetric modulated arc radiotherapy (HF-VMAT).

Methods:

Treatment plans from a total of 100 patients and 136 targets (55 cavity and 81 intact) were retrospectively reviewed. All targets were treated with HF-VMAT with total doses ranging between 20 and 30 gray (Gy) in 5 fractions. All plans met institutional objectives for organ-at-risk constraints and were clinically delivered. Dose falloff was quantified using gradient index (GI) and distance between the 100% and 50% isodose lines (R50). Additionally, the dose to normal brain tissue (brain contour excluding all gross tumor or clinical target volumes) was assessed using volume receiving specific doses (Vx) where x ranged from 5 to 30 Gy. Best-fit curves using power law relationships of the form y = axb were generated for GI, R50, and Vx (normal brain tissue) versus target volume.

Results:

There was a statistically significant difference in planning target volume (PTV) for cavities versus intact metastases with mean volumes of 37.8 cm3 and 9.5 cm3, respectively ( P < .0001). The GI and R50 were statistically different: 3.4 and 9.8 mm for cavities versus 4.6 and 8.3 mm for intact metastases ( P < .0001). The R50 increased with PTV with power law coefficients (a, b) = (6.3, 0.12) and (5.9, 0.15) for cavities and intact, respectively. GI decreased with PTV with coefficients (a, b) = (5.9, −0.18) and (5.7, −0.14) for cavities and intact, respectively. The normal brain tissue Vx also exhibited power law relationships with PTV for x = 20 to 28.8 Gy. In conclusion, target volume is the main predictor of dose falloff. The results of the present study can be used for determining target volume-based thresholds for dose falloff and normal brain tissue dose–volume constraints.
Examining the Dimensions of the Learning Organization Questionnaire
Authors: Kim Junhee , Egan Toby , Tolson Homer
Published: January 2015

Although the Dimensions of the Learning Organization Questionnaire (DLOQ) has been used internationally, especially in the field of Human Resource Development, during the last two decades, researchers have reported problems with multicollinearity and a lack of discriminant validity. The purpose of this study was to review the use of the DLOQ in published research and, in particular, from a construct validity perspective. Our aim was to better understand the deployment, outcomes, and utility of the instrument. Toward this purpose, we conducted a systematic literature review examining research using the DLOQ. Concurrently, we reviewed literature at the center of the DLOQ that led to the formation and early validation of the construct and items. These study findings may help researchers and theorists address the utility of the DLOQ and develop a more valid instrument to measure the learning organization culture.
Medico-legal issues for intensivists caring for children in a District General Hospital
Authors: Griffiths Sian , Danbury Christopher
Published: January 2015

Anaesthetists and intensivists are often called upon to assist with the care of acutely unwell children presenting to district general hospitals. Treatment is usually provided with the consent of a parent but it may be required to treat the child using the doctrine of necessity. In this article we discuss aspects of the law, as it relates to children, to enable teams, who predominately treat sick adults, understand the legal framework surrounding the treatment of sick children.
Use of biosimilar filgrastim compared with lenograstim in autologous haematopoietic stem-cell transplant and in sibling allogeneic transplant
Authors: Uddin Shab , Russell Pippa , Farrell Maresa , Davy Barbara , Taylor Joe , Agrawal Samir G.
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

Biosimilar filgrastim was compared with lenograstim for autologous haematopoietic stem-cell transplant (HSCT) in patients with haematological malignancies. Data from a separate group of sibling donors who underwent allogeneic HSCT are also reported.

Methods:

Patients with lymphoma or multiple myeloma (MM) who underwent autologous HSCT with biosimilar filgrastim were compared with a historical control group of patients who received lenograstim. Peripheral blood (PB) cells counts were monitored after 7–8 consecutive days of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) injection and apheresis was performed on day 8 if PB CD34+ cell count was ⩾10 cells/µl. The target PB CD34+ cell doses were ⩾2.0 × 106/kg (lymphoma), ⩾4.0 × 106/kg (MM ⩾60 years old) or ⩾8.0 × 106/kg (MM <60 years old).

Results:

A total of 259 patients were included in the autologous HSCT comparison (biosimilar filgrastim, n = 104; lenograstim, n = 155). In patients with lymphoma and older MM patients (⩾60 years old), no significant differences were observed between groups with regard to stem-cell mobilization parameters. However, in MM patients <60 years old, all parameters were significantly superior in the biosimilar filgrastim group, including the need for 1 rather than 2 apheresis procedures. No significant differences were observed between groups in median number of days to absolute neutrophil count (ANC) or platelet recovery. In the allogeneic setting, 47 sibling donors received biosimilar filgrastim. Mean CD34+ count at the first apheresis was 6.1 × 106/kg. A total of 13 donors needed a second apheresis and 4 required a third. Among recipients, median days to ANC recovery was 16 (10–28) and to platelet recovery was 13 (9–54).

Conclusions:

Biosimilar filgrastim is as effective as lenograstim for autologous HSCT in patients with lymphoma or MM patients ⩾60 years old. However, mobilization with biosimilar filgrastim appeared to be superior to that with lenograstim in younger MM patients.
Legal highs: staying on top of the flood of novel psychoactive substances
Authors: Baumeister David , Tojo Luis M. , Tracy Derek K.
Published: January 2015

There has been growing clinical, public, and media awareness and concern about the availability and potential harmfulness of so-called ‘legal highs’, which are more appropriately called new or novel psychoactive substances (NPS). A cat-and-mouse process has emerged wherein unknown chemists and laboratories are producing new, and as yet nonproscribed, compounds for human consumption; and as soon as they are banned, which they inevitably are, slightly modified analogues are produced to circumvent new laws. This rapidly changing environment, 81 new substances were identified in 2013 alone, has led to confusion for clinicians, psychopharmacologists, and the public at large. Our difficulties in keeping up with the process has had a two-fold negative effect: the danger of ignoring what is confusing; and the problem that some of the newer synthesized compounds appear ever more potent. This review aims to circumscribe a quick moving and growing field, and to categorize NPS into five major groups based upon their ‘parent’ compounds: stimulants similar to cocaine, amphetamines and ecstasy; cannabinoids; benzodiazepine based drugs; dissociatives similar to ketamine and phencyclidine (PCP); and those modelled after classic hallucinogens such as LSD and psilocybin. Pharmacodynamic actions, subjective and physical effects, harmfulness, risk of dependency and, where appropriate, putative clinical potentials are described for each class. Clinicians might encounter NPS in various ways: anecdotal reportage; acute intoxication; as part of a substance misuse profile; and as a precipitant or perpetuating factor for longer-term physical and psychological ill health. Current data are overall limited, and much of our knowledge and treatment strategies are based upon those of the ‘parent’ compound. There is a critical need for more research in this field, and for professionals to make themselves more aware of this growing issue and how it might affect those we see clinically and try to help: a brave new world of so-called ‘psychonauts’ consuming NPS will also need informed ‘psychotherapeutonauts’. The paper should serve as a primer for clinicians and interested readers, as well as provide a framework into which to place the new substances that will inevitably be synthesized in the future.
Counseling Adolescents About the Intrauterine Contraceptive Device
Authors: Rubin Susan E. , Cohen Hillel W. , Santelli John S. , McKee M. Diane
Published: January 2015

Background: The intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective contraceptive, yet not all primary care providers (PCPs) counsel adolescents about IUDs. We sought to describe PCPs’ frequency of counseling adolescents about IUDs and identify whether different factors are associated with frequent counseling by pediatricians compared with family physicians and gynecologists. Methods: Surveyed PCPs affiliated with a Bronx, New York academic institution. Main Outcome: Frequent counseling of female adolescents about IUDs. Results: Frequent counseling was lower in pediatricians compared with family physicians and gynecologists (35.8% and 81.6%, respectively, P < .001). Among all PCP types, frequent counseling was associated with feeling more competent counseling and managing expected IUD side effects ( P < .001). Other significant variables included inserting IUDs themselves ( P < .001, family physicians and gynecologists) or having access to an inserter in their office ( P = .04, pediatricians). Conclusions: Correlates of frequent IUD counseling differed according to PCP specialty. Our results suggest that interventions to increase IUD counseling should focus on improving PCPs’ competency around counseling and side effect management as well as increasing access to IUD inserters.
Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in a Primary Care Pediatric Clinic
Authors: Stein Ronen , Chelimsky Thomas , Li Hong , Chelimsky Gisela
Published: January 2015

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are a common problem in pediatric patients and can affect quality of life. However, the extent of these disorders may vary in different subpopulations of children. This study investigated the prevalence of FGIDs in an inner-city primary care practice. Healthy patients between the ages of 9 and 17 were administered a validated questionnaire that assessed for FGIDs and other somatic complaints. Eleven of 145 patients (7.5%) met criteria for FGIDs based on Rome III Diagnostic Criteria. Raynaud-like symptoms tended to occur more often in patients meeting criteria for FGIDs, although this association was not statistically significant ( P = .07). The lower prevalence of FGIDs in this population compared with earlier studies may suggest a link between socioeconomic status and the prevalence of FGIDs. Larger population-based studies consisting of a heterogeneous cohort from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds are necessary to further elucidate the true connection between FGIDs and socioeconomic status.
Brain-derived microparticles induce systemic coagulation in a murine model of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Tian Ye , Salsbery Breia , Wang Min , Yuan Hengjie , Yang Jing , Zhao Zilong , Wu Xiaoping , Zhang Yanjun , Konkle Barbara A. , Thiagarajan Perumal , Li Min , Zhang Jianning , Dong Jing-fei
Published: January 2015

Key Points

Brain-derived cellular microparticles induce systemic coagulopathy in traumatic brain injury. Platelets facilitate the transmigration of brain microparticles through the endothelial barrier into the circulation.
Gateways to the FANTOM5 promoter level mammalian expression atlas
Authors: Lizio Marina , Harshbarger Jayson , Shimoji Hisashi , Severin Jessica , Kasukawa Takeya , Sahin Serkan , Abugessaisa Imad , Fukuda Shiro , Hori Fumi , Ishikawa-Kato Sachi , Mungall Christopher J , Arner Erik , Baillie J Kenneth , Bertin Nicolas , Bono Hidemasa , de Hoon Michiel , Diehl Alexander D , Dimont Emmanuel , Freeman Tom C , Fujieda Kaori , Hide Winston , Kaliyaperumal Rajaram , Katayama Toshiaki , Lassmann Timo , Meehan Terrence F , Nishikata Koro , Ono Hiromasa , Rehli Michael , Sandelin Albin , Schultes Erik A , ‘t Hoen Peter AC , Tatum Zuotian , Thompson Mark , Toyoda Tetsuro , Wright Derek W , Daub Carsten O , Itoh Masayoshi , Carninci Piero , Hayashizaki Yoshihide , Forrest Alistair RR , Kawaji Hideya ,   the FANTOM consortium
Published: January 2015

The FANTOM5 project investigates transcription initiation activities in more than 1,000 human and mouse primary cells, cell lines and tissues using CAGE. Based on manual curation of sample information and development of an ontology for sample classification, we assemble the resulting data into a centralized data resource (http://fantom.gsc.riken.jp/5/). This resource contains web-based tools and data-access points for the research community to search and extract data related to samples, genes, promoter activities, transcription factors and enhancers across the FANTOM5 atlas.
Localization and abundance analysis of human lncRNAs at single-cell and single-molecule resolution
Authors: Cabili Moran N , Dunagin Margaret C , McClanahan Patrick D , Biaesch Andrew , Padovan-Merhar Olivia , Regev Aviv , Rinn John L , Raj Arjun
Published: January 2015

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in diverse biological processes. In contrast to extensive genomic annotation of lncRNA transcripts, far fewer have been characterized for subcellular localization and cell-to-cell variability. Addressing this requires systematic, direct visualization of lncRNAs in single cells at single-molecule resolution.

Results

We use single-molecule RNA-FISH to systematically quantify and categorize the subcellular localization patterns of a representative set of 61 lncRNAs in three different cell types. Our survey yields high-resolution quantification and stringent validation of the number and spatial positions of these lncRNA, with an mRNA set for comparison. Using this highly quantitative image-based dataset, we observe a variety of subcellular localization patterns, ranging from bright sub-nuclear foci to almost exclusively cytoplasmic localization. We also find that the low abundance of lncRNAs observed from cell population measurements cannot be explained by high expression in a small subset of ‘jackpot’ cells. Additionally, nuclear lncRNA foci dissolve during mitosis and become widely dispersed, suggesting these lncRNAs are not mitotic bookmarking factors. Moreover, we see that divergently transcribed lncRNAs do not always correlate with their cognate mRNA, nor do they have a characteristic localization pattern.

Conclusions

Our systematic, high-resolution survey of lncRNA localization reveals aspects of lncRNAs that are similar to mRNAs, such as cell-to-cell variability, but also several distinct properties. These characteristics may correspond to particular functional roles. Our study also provides a quantitative description of lncRNAs at the single-cell level and a universally applicable framework for future study and validation of lncRNAs.
Global Skill Partnerships: a proposal for technical training in a mobile world
Authors: Clemens Michael A
Published: January 2015

Skilled workers emigrate from developing countries in rising numbers, raising fears of a drain on the human and financial resources of the countries they leave. This paper critiques existing policy proposals to address the development effects of skilled migration. It then proposes a new kind ofex antepublic-private agreement to link skill formation and skilled migration for the mutual benefit of origin countries, destination countries, and migrants: ‘Global Skill Partnerships’. The paper describes how such an agreement might work in one profession (nursing) and one region (North Africa), and offers design lessons from related initiatives around the world.

JEL codes:F22, J24, O15
New approach to a modern lesson according to the requirements of fses pge
Authors: Керженцева  , Kerzhentseva A.
Published: January 2015

The article delivers author´s opinion on the problem of changing the approaches to a modern lesson according to the framework of the Federal

state educational standard of the primary general education (fses pge) of the second generation. New structural components of a lesson and

ways of realization of activity approach are offered to discussion.
Insulin management in chronic kidney disease: initiation, titration and monitoring of therapy
Authors: Lam Michelle , Coleman Adrian
Published: January 2015

Mr DM is a 60-year-old librarian with a history of type 2 diabetes and stage 4 chronic kidney disease. His GP reported that his diabetes control has been poor, despite being on the maximum dose of gliclazide. Michelle Lam and Adrian Coleman discuss the use of insulin in a patient with declining renal function.
Developments in transplantation will give dialysis patients hope
Authors: Finnigan Robert
Published: January 2015

Just over a decade ago, Robert Finnigan had his kidney transplant, feeling as underprepared for it as for his initial dialysis. A visit to an information day at his local hospital recently left him marvelling at the pace of change in procedures and drugs over the interval, pointing to an optimistic future.
Computing challenges
Authors: Chambers Ray
Published: January 2015

There are plenty of challenges in delivering the new computing curriculum, but plenty of help and resources to be found as well. Computing teacher Ray Chambers offers his advice
Drama across the school
Authors: Melhuish Morgan
Published: January 2015

A whole-school, cross-curricular approach to drama can help develop an amazing set of skills in your students. Head of drama Morgan Melhuish discusses some of her strategies
New developments for the delivery of plastic surgical research in the UK
Authors: Gilleard O , Potter L , Metcalfe A , Segaren N , Breitenfeldt N , Diaz-Siso JR , Pomahac B , Dheansa B
Published: January 2015

The current state of play in plastic surgery reasearch at home and abroad
Regional variations in the referral criteria for the surgical treatment of varicose veins
Authors: Smith HG , Khan MEA , Harrison SL , Abdul-Latiff A , Hamid S , Alchikhali T , Derodra J , Vig S
Published: January 2015

Is access to care in danger of becoming a postcode lottery?
Interview: Anthony Atala
Authors: Button Vivienne
Published: January 2015

Anthony Atala’s research in the fields of cell, tissue and organ regeneration has earned him international recognition and the starring role in a number of inspirational TED talks. We spoke to him about his work at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine and what he thinks the future holds.
Back to the future
Authors: Sanders David
Published: January 2015

In our February issue, the focus shifts from refashioning the health service to the fabric of the human body.
Age–Period–Cohort Models and the Perpendicular Solution
Authors: O’Brien Robert M.
Published: January 2015

Separating the effects of ages, periods, and cohorts is a classic problem not only in epidemiology but also in demography and the social sciences in general.
The 2014 Midterm in the Longest Run: The Puzzle of a Modern Era
Authors: Shafer Byron E. , Wagner Regina L. , Engle Pär Jason
Published: January 2015

Comparisons across even the longest time-span cannot foretell the future. What they can do is generate the available analogies to what has just happened, isolate the
The Republican Wave of 2014: The Continuity of the 2012 and 2014 Elections
Authors: Campbell James E.
Published: January 2015

This article examines the influences on the 2014 midterm congressional elections. The election was a decisive victory for the Republican Party. Republicans picked up nine Senate seats and with them control of the Senate. They also gained thirteen House seats, extending their House majority to its largest size in over 80 years. Although Republican seat gains can be explained at one level by the normal processes of surge and decline plus the midterm as a referendum on the performance of the presidential party, this does not explain why the midterm referendum was so lopsidedly against the Democrats that it created a Republican wave in the election. This analysis traces the reasons for the Democrats’ “shellacking” to the 2012 presidential election. The reason for President Obama’s reelection in 2012 has been misinterpreted as an ideological triumph or as a positive referendum on the president’s job performance. Neither was the case. As a first party-term incumbent, President Obama was given additional time to revive the weak economy that he inherited from President Bush. The 2012 referendum on the president’s performance was a suspended referendum, not a vote of confidence. The analysis shows that the economy was weak by historical standards in 2012 and remained so in 2014 and that voters realized that the economy was weak in 2012 and continued to believe so in 2014. The crucial political difference was that voters blamed former President Bush in 2012, but held the Democrats responsible in 2014.
Was it a Wave? What does it Mean?
Authors: Goldstein Kenneth M. , Dallek Mathew J.
Published: January 2015

In the instant analysis that followed, pundits dubbed the 2014 midterms an election “wave” for the Republican Party. Our article argues that “wave” is one of the most abused terms in American political discourse. Although political waves do exist, our article argues that they come in a variety of shapes, are created by a constellation of factors beyond anti-incumbency, and can have a number of different effects on the next national election cycle. Our analysis shows that the 2014 wave (if there was a wave in the ocean) was neither as large as pundits suggested nor as politically impactful as some spinners have claimed. Elections are determined by terrain and climate, both of which favored Republicans in 2014. Republicans captured or defended Senate seats where they should have in nine deep-red states. Focusing on gubernatorial and Senate campaigns in seven purple states, we see that Republicans won eight out of the 12 contests and five out of the nine most competitive contests. Although there has been an immense amount of attention to turnout, our analysis demonstrates that Republican victories were sometimes due to turnout, sometimes due to performance among independents, and sometimes due to a combination of these factors. This mixed picture complicates the analysis of the Republican victories, suggesting that the Rising American Electorate (youth, minorities, women) will not simply carry the Democrats to victory in 2016, and that anti-Obama public opinion alone will not be enough to deliver the White House to Republicans. It also provides yet more evidence that there is not a one-size-fits-all strategy when it comes to campaign focus and targeting.
The 2014 House Elections: Political Analysis and The Enduring Importance of Demographics
Authors: Stonecash Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2015

Partisan success in House districts is significantly influenced by the composition of districts and the resulting partisan voting inclinations. Districts that are largely White and have lower population density vote Republican and those that are highly urban and dominated by non-Whites vote Democratic. That continued to play out in 2014. Although the 2014 House elections produced the highest number of Republican seats since 1928, the changes from 2012 to 2014 look less dramatic when assessed by district composition and partisan voting tendencies.
Interest Group Issue Appeals: Evidence of Issue Convergence in Senate and Presidential Elections, 2008–2014
Authors: Franz Michael M.
Published: January 2015

Interest groups now play a prominent role in the air war. Their collective investment in election campaigns has skyrocketed in the aftermath of
Money in the 2014 Congressional Elections: Institutionalizing a Broken Regulatory System
Authors: La Raja Raymond J.
Published: January 2015

The campaign finance system has fragmented campaign activity in response to rules that are unworkable in a strong party system. The 2014 congressional elections illustrate how party coalitions have adapted to practices that enable them to raise and spend money outside this formal regulatory framework. For several election cycles, partisan interest groups have used outside campaign organizations to circumvent rules that constrain candidate and party committees. The 2014 elections illustrate how party leaders in Congress and these candidates have now embraced the outside campaign strategy to wrest some control from other elements of the party. Recent changes to campaign finance rules may shift additional money toward traditional committees, but outside groups like Super PACs are now established features of US political campaigns.
Opportunistic Channel Scheduling for Ad Hoc Networks with Queue Stability
Authors: Dong Lei , Wang Yongchao
Published: January 2015

In this paper, a distributed opportunistic channel access strategy in ad hoc network is proposed. We consider the multiple sources contend for the transmission opportunity, the winner source decides to transmit or restart contention based on the current channel condition. Owing to real data assumption at all links, the decision still needs to consider the stability of the queues. We formulate the channel opportunistic scheduling as a constrained optimization problem which maximizes the system average throughput with the constraints that the queues of all links are stable. The proposed optimization model is solved by Lyapunov stability in queueing theory. The successive channel access problem is decoupled into single optimal stopping problem at every frame and solved with
A Semi-stationary Copula Model Approach for Bivariate Survival Data with Interval Sampling
Authors: Zhu Hong , Wang Mei-Cheng
Published: January 2015

In disease registries, bivariate survival data are typically collected under interval sampling. It refers to a situation when entry into a registry is at the time of the first failure event (i.e., HIV infection) within a calendar time window. For all the cases in the registry, time of the initiating event (i.e., birth) is retrospectively identified, and subsequently the second failure event (i.e., death) is observed during follow-up. In this paper we discuss how interval sampling introduces bias into the data. Given the sampling design that the first event occurs within a specific time interval, the first failure time is doubly truncated, and the second failure time is possibly informatively right censored. Consider semi-stationary condition that the disease progression is independent of when the initiating event occurs. Under this condition, this paper adopts copula models to assess association between the bivariate survival times with interval sampling. We first obtain bias-corrected estimators of marginal survival functions, and estimate association parameter of copula model by a two-stage procedure. In the second part of the work, covariates are incorporated into the survival distributions via the proportional hazards models. Inference of the association measure in copula model is established, where the association is allowed to depend on covariates. Asymptotic properties of proposed estimators are established, and finite sample performance is evaluated by simulation studies. The method is applied to a community-based AIDS study in Rakai to investigate dependence between age at infection and residual lifetime without and with adjustment for HIV subtype.
A Neuronal Activity-Dependent Dual Function Chromatin-Modifying Complex RegulatesArcExpression
Authors: Oey Nicodemus E. , Leung How Wing , Ezhilarasan Rajaram , Zhou Lei , Beuerman Roger W. , VanDongen Hendrika M.A. , VanDongen Antonius M.J.
Published: January 2015

Chromatin modification is an important epigenetic mechanism underlying neuroplasticity. Histone methylation and acetylation have both been shown to modulate gene expression, but the machinery responsible for mediating these changes in neurons has remained elusive. Here we identify a chromatin-modifying complex containing the histone demethylase PHF8 and the acetyltransferase TIP60 as a key regulator of the activity-induced expression of Arc, an important mediator of synaptic plasticity. Clinically, mutations in PHF8 cause X-linked mental retardation while TIP60 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. Within minutes of increased synaptic activity, this dual function complex is rapidly recruited to the Arc promoter, where it specifically counteracts the transcriptionally repressive histone mark H3K9me2 to facilitate the formation of the transcriptionally permissive H3K9acS10P, thereby favoring transcriptional activation. Consequently, gain-of-function of the PHF8−TIP60 complex in primary rat hippocampal neurons has a positive effect on early activity-inducedArcgene expression, whereas interfering with the function of this complex abrogates it. A global proteomics screen revealed that the majority of common interactors of PHF8 and TIP60 were involved in mRNA processing, including PSF, an important molecule involved in neuronal gene regulation. Finally, we proceeded to show, using super-resolution microscopy, that PHF8 and TIP60 interact at the single molecule level with PSF, thereby situating this chromatin modifying complex at the crossroads of transcriptional activation. These findings point toward a mechanism by which an epigenetic pathway can regulate neuronal activity-dependent gene transcription, which has implications in the development of novel therapeutics for disorders of learning and memory.
Neural Correlates of Expected Risks and Returns in Risky Choice across Development
Authors: van Duijvenvoorde Anna C.K. , Huizenga Hilde M. , Somerville Leah H. , Delgado Mauricio R. , Powers Alisa , Weeda Wouter D. , Casey B.J. , Weber Elke U. , Figner Bernd
Published: January 2015

Adolescence is often described as a period of increased risk taking relative to both childhood and adulthood. This inflection in risky choice behavior has been attributed to a neurobiological imbalance between earlier developing motivational systems and later developing top-down control regions. Yet few studies have decomposed risky choice to investigate the underlying mechanisms or tracked their differential developmental trajectory. The current study uses a risk–return decomposition to more precisely assess the development of processes underlying risky choice and to link them more directly to specific neural mechanisms. This decomposition specifies the influence of changing risks (outcome variability) and changing returns (expected value) on the choices of children, adolescents, and adults in a dynamic risky choice task, the Columbia Card Task. Behaviorally, risk aversion increased across age groups, with adults uniformly risk averse and adolescents showing substantial individual differences in risk sensitivity, ranging from risk seeking to risk averse. Neurally, we observed an adolescent peak in risk-related activation in the anterior insula and dorsal medial PFC. Return sensitivity, on the other hand, increased monotonically across age groups and was associated with increased activation in the ventral medial PFC and posterior cingulate cortex with age. Our results implicate adolescence as a developmental phase of increased neural risk sensitivity. Importantly, this work shows that using a behaviorally validated decision-making framework allows a precise operationalization of key constructs underlying risky choice that inform the interpretation of results.
Morphometric and Histologic Substrates of Cingulate Integrity in Elders with Exceptional Memory Capacity
Authors: Gefen Tamar , Peterson Melanie , Papastefan Steven T. , Martersteck Adam , Whitney Kristen , Rademaker Alfred , Bigio Eileen H. , Weintraub Sandra , Rogalski Emily , Mesulam M.-Marsel , Geula Changiz
Published: January 2015

This human study is based on an established cohort of “SuperAgers,” 80+-year-old individuals with episodic memory function at a level equal to, or better than, individuals 20–30 years younger. A preliminary investigation using structural brain imaging revealed a region of anterior cingulate cortex that was thicker in SuperAgers compared with healthy 50- to 65-year-olds. Here, we investigated thein vivostructural features of cingulate cortex in a larger sample of SuperAgers and conducted a histologic analysis of this region in postmortem specimens. A region-of-interest MRI structural analysis found cingulate cortex to be thinner in cognitively average 80+ year olds (n= 21) than in the healthy middle-aged group (n= 18). A region of the anterior cingulate cortex in the right hemisphere displayed greater thickness in SuperAgers (n= 31) compared with cognitively average 80+ year olds and also to the much younger healthy 50–60 year olds (p< 0.01). Postmortem investigations were conducted in the cingulate cortex in five SuperAgers, five cognitively average elderly individuals, and five individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment. Compared with other subject groups, SuperAgers showed a lower frequency of Alzheimer-type neurofibrillary tangles (p< 0.05). There were no differences in total neuronal size or count between subject groups. Interestingly, relative to total neuronal packing density, there was a higher density of von Economo neurons (p< 0.05), particularly in anterior cingulate regions of SuperAgers. These findings suggest that reduced vulnerability to the age-related emergence of Alzheimer pathology and higher von Economo neuron density in anterior cingulate cortex may represent biological correlates of high memory capacity in advanced old age.
Neural Correlates of Object-Associated Choice Behavior in the Perirhinal Cortex of Rats
Authors: Ahn Jae-Rong , Lee Inah
Published: January 2015

The perirhinal cortex (PRC) is reportedly important for object recognition memory, with supporting physiological evidence obtained largely from primate studies. Whether neurons in the rodent PRC also exhibit similar physiological correlates of object recognition, however, remains to be determined. We recorded single units from the PRC in a PRC-dependent, object-cued spatial choice task in which, when cued by an object image, the rat chose the associated spatial target from two identical discs appearing on a touchscreen monitor. The firing rates of PRC neurons were significantly modulated by critical events in the task, such as object sampling and choice response. Neuronal firing in the PRC was correlated primarily with the conjunctive relationships between an object and its associated choice response, although some neurons also responded to the choice response alone. However, we rarely observed a PRC neuron that represented a specific object exclusively regardless of spatial response in rats, although the neurons were influenced by the perceptual ambiguity of the object at the population level. Some PRC neurons fired maximally after a choice response, and this post-choice feedback signal significantly enhanced the neuronal specificity for the choice response in the subsequent trial. Our findings suggest that neurons in the rat PRC may not participate exclusively in object recognition memory but that their activity may be more dynamically modulated in conjunction with other variables, such as choice response and its outcomes.
Sustained Maintenance of Somatotopic Information in Brain Regions Recruited by Tactile Working Memory
Authors: Katus Tobias , Müller Matthias M. , Eimer Martin
Published: January 2015

To adaptively guide ongoing behavior, representations in working memory (WM) often have to be modified in line with changing task demands. We used event-related potentials (ERPs) to demonstrate that tactile WM representations are stored in modality-specific cortical regions, that the goal-directed modulation of these representations is mediated through hemispheric-specific activation of somatosensory areas, and that the rehearsal of somatotopic coordinates in memory is accomplished by modality-specific spatial attention mechanisms. Participants encoded two tactile sample stimuli presented simultaneously to the left and right hands, before visual retro-cues indicated which of these stimuli had to be retained to be matched with a subsequent test stimulus on the same hand. Retro-cues triggered a sustained tactile contralateral delay activity component with a scalp topography over somatosensory cortex contralateral to the cued hand. Early somatosensory ERP components to task-irrelevant probe stimuli (that were presented after the retro-cues) and to subsequent test stimuli were enhanced when these stimuli appeared at the currently memorized location relative to other locations on the cued hand, demonstrating that a precise focus of spatial attention was established during the selective maintenance of tactile events in WM. These effects were observed regardless of whether participants performed the matching task with uncrossed or crossed hands, indicating that WM representations in this task were based on somatotopic rather than allocentric spatial coordinates. In conclusion, spatial rehearsal in tactile WM operates within somatotopically organized sensory brain areas that have been recruited for information storage.