bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Social Experience Affects Neural Activity to Affiliative Facial Gestures in Newborn Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Vanderwert Ross E. , Simpson Elizabeth A. , Paukner Annika , Suomi Stephen J. , Fox Nathan A. , Ferrari Pier F.
Published: May 2015

A fundamental issue in cognitive neuroscience is how the brain encodes the actions and intentions of others. The discovery of an action-production-perception mechanism underpinning such a capacity advanced our knowledge of how these processes occur; however, no study has examined how the early postnatal environment may shape action-production-perception. Here, we examined the effects of social experience on action-production-perception in 3-day-old rhesus macaques that were raised either with or without their biological mothers. We measured the neonatal imitation skills and brain electrical activity responses, while infants produced and observed facial gestures. We hypothesized that early social experiences may shape brain activity, as assessed via electroencephalogram suppression in the α band (5-7 Hz in infants, known as the mu rhythm) during action observation, and lead to more proficient imitation skills. Consistent with this hypothesis, the infants reared by their mothers were more likely to imitate lipsmacking (LS) - a natural, affiliative gesture - and exhibited greater mu rhythm desynchronization while viewing LS gestures than the nursery-reared infants. These effects were not found in response to tongue protrusion, a meaningless gesture, or a nonsocial control. These data suggest that socially enriched early experiences in the first days after birth increase brain sensitivity to socially relevant actions.
Nonthyroidal Illness Syndrome in Cardiac Illness Involves Elevated Concentrations of 3,5-Diiodothyronine and Correlates with Atrial Remodeling
Authors: Dietrich Johannes W. , Müller Patrick , Schiedat Fabian , Schlömicher Markus , Strauch Justus , Chatzitomaris Apostolos , Klein Harald H. , Mügge Andreas , Köhrle Josef , Rijntjes Eddy , Lehmphul Ina
Published: May 2015

Background: Although hyperthyroidism predisposes to atrial fibrillation, previous trials have suggested decreased triiodothyronine (T3) concentrations to be associated with postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). Therapy with thyroid hormones (TH), however, did not reduce the risk of POAF. This study reevaluates the relation between thyroid hormone status, atrial electromechanical function and POAF. Methods: Thirty-nine patients with sinus rhythm and no history of atrial fibrillation or thyroid disease undergoing cardiac surgery were prospectively enrolled. Serum concentrations of thyrotropin, free (F) and total (T) thyroxine (T4) and T3, reverse (r)T3, 3-iodothyronamine (3-T1AM) and 3,5-diiodothyronine (3,5-T2) were measured preoperatively, complemented by evaluation of echocardiographic and electrophysiological parameters of cardiac function. Holter-ECG and telemetry were used to screen for POAF for 10 days following cardiac surgery. Results: Seven of 17 patients who developed POAF demonstrated nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS; defined as low T3 and/or low T4 syndrome), compared to 2 of 22 (p < 0.05) patients who maintained sinus rhythm. In patients with POAF, serum FT3 concentrations were significantly decreased, but still within their reference ranges. 3,5-T2 concentrations directly correlated with rT3 concentrations and inversely correlated with FT3 concentrations. Furthermore, 3,5-T2 concentrations were significantly elevated in patients with NTIS and in subjects who eventually developed POAF. In multivariable logistic regression FT3, 3,5-T2, total atrial conduction time, left atrial volume index and Fas ligand were independent predictors of POAF. Conclusion: This study confirms reduced FT3 concentrations in patients with POAF and is the first to report on elevated 3,5-T2 concentrations in cardiac NTIS. The pathogenesis of NTIS therefore seems to involve more differentiated allostatic mechanisms.
T-Cell Activation and Malnutrition Adversely Impact on Endothelial Progenitor Cell Mobilization in Patients on Extracorporeal Maintenance Dialysis Therapy
Authors: Tuaillon Edouard , Jaussent Isabelle , Morena Marion , Rodrigez Annie , Chenine Leila , Kuster Nils , Vendrell Jean-Pierre , Cristol Jean-Paul , Canaud Bernard
Published: May 2015

Background: The number of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) decreases on account of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: Twenty patients were enrolled in this prospective and randomised study in two parallel arms: conventional haemodialysis versus online haemodiafiltration. EPCs number and T-cell activation were analysed at baseline and monthly during a 4-month period of follow-up. Results: CD38bright and HLA-DR+ expression among CD8 memory T cells were negatively associated with both CD34+ (r = -0.70, p = 0.0006) and CD34+ CD133+ (r = -0.62, p = 0.004) cell numbers. Conversely, a positive correlation was observed between CD34+ and CD34+ CD133+ cells with transferrin (r = 0.75, p = 0.0001 and r = 0.47, p = 0.04, respectively), and CD34+ CD133+ cells with transthyretin (r = 0.51, p = 0.02). No significant association was observed between dialysis modality and the evolution of the EPC number. Conclusions: Chronic T-cell activation may be a component of the malnutrition inflammation complex syndrome that adversely influences EPC mobilization in CKD patients.
Effects of Intracoronary Infusion of Escalating Doses of Cardiac Stem Cells in Rats With Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Tang Xian-Liang , Rokosh Gregg , Sanganalmath Santosh K. , Tokita Yukichi , Keith Matthew C.L. , Shirk Gregg , Stowers Heather , Hunt Gregory N. , Wu Wenjian , Dawn Buddhadeb , Bolli Roberto
Published: May 2015

Background—

Although c-kit
pos
cardiac stem cells (CSCs) preserve left ventricular (LV) function and structure after myocardial infarction, CSC doses have been chosen arbitrarily, and the dose–effect relationship is unknown.

Methods and Results—

Rats underwent a 90-minute coronary occlusion followed by 35 days of reperfusion. Vehicle or CSCs at 5 escalating doses (0.3×10
6
, 0.75×10
6
, 1.5×10
6
, 3.0×10
6
, and 6.0×10
6
cells/heart) were given intracoronarily 4 h after reperfusion. The lowest dose (0.3×10
6
) had no effect on LV function and morphology, whereas 0.75, 1.5, and 3.0×10
6
significantly improved regional and global LV function (echocardiography and hemodynamic studies). These 3 doses had similar effects on echocardiographic parameters (infarct wall thickening fraction, LV end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes, LV ejection fraction) and hemodynamic variables (LV end-diastolic pressure, LV d
P
/d
t
max
, preload adjusted maximal power, end-systolic elastance, preload recruitable stroke work) and produced similar reductions in apoptosis, scar size, infarct wall thinning, and LV expansion index and similar increases in viable myocardium in the risk region (morphometry). Infusion of 6.0×10
6
CSCs markedly increased postprocedural mortality. Green fluorescent protein and 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine staining indicated that persistence of donor cells and formation of new myocytes were negligible with all doses.

Conclusions—

Surprisingly, in this rat model of acute myocardial infarction, the dose–response relationship for intracoronary CSCs is flat. A minimal dose between 0.3 and 0.75×10
6
is necessary for efficacy; above this threshold, a 4-fold increase in cell number does not produce greater improvement in LV function or structure. Further increases in cell dose are harmful.
Associations of Blood Pressure in Pregnancy With Offspring Blood Pressure Trajectories During Childhood and Adolescence: Findings From a Prospective Study
Authors: Staley James R. , Bradley John , Silverwood Richard J. , Howe Laura D. , Tilling Kate , Lawlor Debbie A. , Macdonald‐Wallis Corrie
Published: May 2015

Background

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are related to higher offspring blood pressure (
BP
), but it is not known whether this association strengthens or weakens as
BP
changes across childhood. Our aim was to assess the associations of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and maternal
BP
changes during pregnancy with trajectories of offspring
BP
from age 7 to 18 years.

Methods and Results

In a large
UK
cohort of maternal–offspring pairs (N=6619), we used routine antenatal
BP
measurements to derive hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and maternal
BP
trajectories. These were related to offspring
BP
trajectories, obtained from research clinic assessments, using linear spline random‐effects models. After adjusting for maternal and offspring variables, including body mass index, offspring of women who had existing hypertension, gestational hypertension, or preeclampsia during pregnancy had on average higher
BP
at age 7 years compared to offspring of normotensive pregnancies (mean difference [95%
CI
] in systolic
BP
: 1.67 mm Hg [0.48, 2.86], 1.98 mm Hg [1.32, 2.65], and 1.22 mm Hg [−0.52, 2.97], respectively). These differences were consistent across childhood to age 18 years, as the patterns of
BP
change did not differ between offspring of hypertensive pregnancies and normotensive pregnancies. Maternal
BP
at 8 weeks’ gestation was also positively associated with offspring
BP
in childhood and adolescence, but changes in
BP
across pregnancy were not strongly associated.

Conclusions

The differences in
BP
between offspring of hypertensive pregnancies and offspring of normotensive pregnancies remain consistent across childhood and adolescence. These associations appear to be most contributed to by higher maternal
BP
in early pregnancy rather than by pregnancy‐related
BP
changes.
The United States and Nicaragua: Understanding the Breakdown in Relations
Authors: Hager Robert P. , Snyder Robert S.
Published: May 2015

Although the United States and Nicaragua maintained cooperative relations for a period after the Sandinista revolution of 1979, ties between the two states deteriorated. What explains the shift from cordial to hostile relations? The two dominant explanations have been that the aggressive policies of the new Reagan administration forced the Sandinista regime into a defensive position of hostility or that a downward spiral occurred based on the security dilemma. This paper rejects both and offers an alternative: The Sandinistas for ideological and domestic political reasons chose antagonistic relations when they opted to arm and support the rebels in El Salvador in violation of an earlier agreement between the two states. Drawing on research that shows the aggressive tendencies of revolutionary states, the article contrasts this theory with the spiral model. Moreover, analysis of the archives of the early Reagan administration shows that it wanted to find an accommodation with Managua. Although the revolutionary Sandinistas were motivated by ideology, Washington was more influenced by geopolitical concerns.
Revisiting the 1954 Coup in Guatemala: The Soviet Union, the United Nations, and “Hemispheric Solidarity”
Authors: Getchell Michelle Denise
Published: May 2015

This article reevaluates the U.S.-backed coup in 1954 that overthrew Guatemala's democratically elected president, Jacobo Árbenz Guzmán. The coup is generally portrayed as the opening shot of the Cold War in the Western Hemisphere and a watershed moment for U.S.–Latin American relations, when the United States supplanted its Good Neighbor Policy with a hardline anti-Communist approach. Despite the extensive literature on the coup, the Soviet Union's perspectives on the matter have received scant discussion. Using Soviet-bloc and United Nations (UN) archival sources, this article shows that Latin American Communists and Soviet sympathizers were hugely influential in shaping Moscow's perceptions of hemispheric relations. Although regional Communists petitioned the Soviet Union to provide support to Árbenz, officials in Moscow were unwilling to prop up what they considered a “bourgeois-democratic” revolution tottering under the weight of U.S. military pressure. Soviet leaders were, however, keen to use their position on the UN Security Council to challenge the authority of the Organization of American States and undermine U.S. conceptions of “hemispheric solidarity.” The coup, moreover, revealed the force of anti-U.S. nationalism in Latin America during a period in which Soviet foreign policy was in flux and the Cold War was becoming globalized.
Islamic Law and the Environment in Indonesia
Authors: Gade Anna M.
Published: May 2015

Based on research in Indonesia in 2010–2013, this essay explains how Muslims expect norms of Islamic law to mobilize religious response to environmental crisis. It surveys attempts since the 1990s to develop “environmental fiqh (Muslim jurisprudence)” in Indonesia, justified in theory by rationales such as that actions causing environmental harm stem ultimately from human moral failing, and also that human aims and activities, including those protected by Islamic law, require a healthy biosphere. Many Indonesians expect Islamic ecological rulings to fill a critical gap in global persuasion, and to be successful when other (non-religious) environmental messages fail. Considering several key fatwas (non-binding legal opinions given in answer to a question) from the local level to the national in Indonesia, this paper explains how law and “outreach” (Ind. dakwah) come together to cast Islamic law of the environment in terms of foundational causes and ultimate effects. These religious norms coexist with and complement other globalized constructions (such as those of the nation-state and NGOs) that they increasingly incorporate.
Cloud Radiative Forcing at Summit, Greenland
Authors: Miller Nathaniel B. , Shupe Matthew D. , Cox Christopher J. , Walden Von P. , Turner David D. , Steffen Konrad
Published: May 2015

The surface energy budget plays a critical role in determining the mass balance of the Greenland Ice Sheet, which in turn has significant implications for global sea levels. Nearly three years of data (January 2011–October 2013) are used to characterize the annual cycle of surface radiative fluxes and cloud radiative forcing (CRF) from the central Greenland Ice Sheet at Summit Station. The annual average CRF is 33 W m−2, representing a substantial net cloud warming of the central Greenland surface. Unlike at other Arctic sites, clouds warm the surface during the summer. The surface albedo is high at Summit throughout the year, limiting the cooling effect of the shortwave CRF and thus the total CRF is dominated by cloud longwave warming effects in all months. All monthly mean CRF values are positive (warming), as are 98.5% of 3-hourly cases. The annual cycle of CRF is largely driven by the occurrence of liquid-bearing clouds, with a minimum in spring and maximum in late summer. Optically thick liquid-bearing clouds [liquid water path (LWP) > 30 g m−2] produce an average longwave CRF of 85 W m−2. Shortwave CRF is sensitive to solar zenith angle and LWP. When the sun is well above the horizon (solar zenith angle < 65°), a maximum cloud surface warming occurs in the presence of optically thin liquid-bearing clouds. Ice clouds occur frequently above Summit and have mean longwave CRF values ranging from 10 to 60 W m−2, dependent on cloud thickness.
Associations Between Parental Health Literacy, Use of Asthma Management Plans, and Child’s Asthma Control
Authors: Brigham Erin L. , Goldenberg Larry , Stolfi Adrienne , Mueller Gary A. , Forbis Shalini G.
Published: May 2015

Background. There are some studies demonstrating the effectiveness of the provision of written asthma action plans in improving asthma outcomes. There exist little data on the ability of parents to use these plans to make asthma care decisions. Objective. To assess the associations between parental health literacy (HL), parental ability to use a written asthma management plan (WAMP), and child’s asthma control. Methods. Parents completed a survey with questions related to WAMPs and child’s asthma, a HL screening tool, and 5 asthma vignettes. For vignettes, parents identified asthma control zone and then made decisions about asthma management. WAMP scores were totaled (0-32) and converted to a percent correct score. Associations between parental HL, WAMP scores, child’s asthma control, and demographics were determined with independent t tests or 1-way analysis of variance, and chi-square tests. Variables significantly associated with WAMP scores or asthma control were included in multiple logistic regression or multiple linear regression analyses. Results. A total of 176 surveys were included; the mean ± SD WAMP score was 58.9% ± 22.2%, and 25% of respondents had limited HL. Of respondents’ children, 38% had not well/poorly controlled asthma. In multiple regression analysis controlling for education level, limited HL was significantly associated with WAMP score ( b = 11.3, standard error 3.8, P = .004). WAMP score was not associated with asthma control. Limited HL was associated with poor asthma control in univariate analysis, but not in a logistic regression model controlling for other significant variables. Only unmarried marital status (adjusted odds ratio 4.4, 95% CI 1.8-10.8, P = .001) was associated with asthma control. Conclusion. HL is associated with parental ability to use WAMPs to respond to asthma scenarios. Parental HL may play a role in parents’ ability to appropriately use WAMPs.
Narrowing Care Gaps for Early Language Delay
Authors: Brown Courtney M. , Beck Andrew F. , Steuerwald Wendy , Alexander Elizabeth , Samaan Zeina M. , Kahn Robert S. , Mansour Mona
Published: May 2015

Background and Objective. Poverty is a risk factor for both language delay and failure to access appropriate therapies. The objective of this study was to increase the percentage of children 0 to 3 years old referred from an urban primary care center who attended an initial appointment with speech pathology or audiology within 60 days from 40% to 60%. Methods. The Model for Improvement was used to develop and test the intervention, which addressed potential logistical barriers faced by low-income families. Adherence was plotted on run charts in time series to assess overall improvement, and subgroups were analyzed to identify reduction in disparities. Results. Median referral adherence improved from 40% to 60%. Families from lower income neighborhoods had lower preintervention adherence; these differences were eliminated postintervention. Conclusions. System-level changes improved access to evaluation and treatment for low-income children with language delay and narrowed the gap in access between families in lower versus higher income neighborhoods.
Experimental investigation of the cutting temperature and surface quality during milling of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastic
Authors: Ghafarizadeh Seyedbehzad , Lebrun Gilbert , Chatelain Jean-François
Published: May 2015

The surface machining of carbon fiber reinforced plastics materials is a challenging process, given the heterogeneity and anisotropic nature of composites, which, combined with the abrasiveness of the fibers, can produce some surface damage and extensive tool wear. The cutting temperature is one of the most important factors associated with the tool wear rate and machinability of these materials, which are also affected by the mechanical and thermal properties of the workpiece material and the cutting conditions. In this work, the cutting temperature, cutting forces, and composite surface roughness were measured under different cutting conditions for the end milling of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastics. Cutting speeds ranging from 200 to 350 m/min; a feed rate of 0.063 mm/rev; fiber orientations of 0, 45, 90, and 135°; and a 0.5 mm depth of cut were considered. The results show that the cutting speed and fiber orientation have a significant influence on the cutting temperature and cutting forces. The maximum and minimum cutting forces and temperatures were achieved for fiber orientations of 90 and 0°, respectively.
Orthodontic Force Facilitates Cortical Responses to Periodontal Stimulation
Authors: Horinuki E. , Shinoda M. , Shimizu N. , Koshikawa N. , Kobayashi M.
Published: May 2015

Somatosensory information derived from the periodontal ligaments plays a critical role in identifying the strength and direction of occlusal force. The orthodontic force needed to move a tooth often causes uncomfortable sensations, including nociception around the tooth, and disturbs somatosensory information processing. However, it has mostly remained unknown whether orthodontic treatment modulates higher brain functions, especially cerebrocortical activity. To address this issue, we first elucidated the cortical region involved in sensory processing from the periodontal ligaments and then examined how experimental tooth movement (ETM) changes neural activity in these cortical regions. We performed in vivo optical imaging to identify the cortical responses evoked by electrical stimulation of the maxillary and mandibular incisor and the first molar periodontal ligaments in the rat. In naïve rats, electrical stimulation of the mandibular periodontal ligaments initially evoked neural excitation in the rostroventral part of the primary somatosensory cortex (S1), the ventrocaudal part of the secondary somatosensory cortex (S2), and the insular oral region (IOR), whereas maxillary periodontal ligaments elicited excitation only in S2/IOR rostrodorsally adjacent to the mandibular periodontal ligament–responding region. In contrast, maximum responses to mandibular and maxillary periodontal stimulation were observed in S1 and S2/IOR, and the 2 responses nearly overlapped. One day after ETM (maxillary molar movement by Waldo’s method), the maximum response to stimulation of the maxillary molar periodontal ligament induced larger and broader excitation in S2/IOR, although the initial responses were not affected. Taken together with the histologic findings of IL-1β expression and macrophage infiltration in the periodontal ligament of the ETM models, inflammation induced by ETM may play a role in the facilitation of S2/IOR activity. From the clinical viewpoints, the larger amplitude of cortical excitation may induce higher sensitivity to pain responding to nonnoxious stimuli, and enlargement of the responding area may reflect radiating pain.
Integrating Metrics Across the Marketing Curriculum
Authors: Spiller Lisa , Tuten Tracy
Published: May 2015

Modern digital and social media formats have revolutionized marketing measurement, producing an abundance of data, meaningful metrics, new tools, and methodologies. This increased emphasis on metrics in the marketing industry signifies the need for increased quantitative and critical thinking content in our marketing coursework if we are to adequately prepare our students for industry needs. This article discusses the growing relevance of marketing metrics, reviews the metrics currently available for digital and social media, provides two real-world examples of organizations using digital and social media metrics to drive strategic marketing decisions (especially integrated marketing communication decisions) and offers both suggestions for how to weave more digital and social media quantitative analysis and critical thinking skills into our marketing courses and examples of student work using social media tools.
Utility of adaptive control processing for the interpretation of digital mammograms
Authors: Jinnouchi Mikako , Yabuuchi Hidetake , Kubo Makoto , Tokunaga Eriko , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Honda Hiroshi
Published: May 2015

Background

Adaptive control processing for mammography (ACM) is a novel program that automatically sets up appropriate image-processing parameters for individual mammograms (MMGs) by analyzing the focal and whole breast histogram.

Purpose

To investigate whether ACM improves the image contrast of digital MMGs and whether it improves radiologists’ diagnostic performance in reading of MMGs.

Material and Methods

One hundred normal cases for image quality assessment and another 100 cases (50 normal and 50 cancers) for observer performance assessment were enrolled. All mammograms were examined with and without ACM. Five radiologists assessed the intra- and extra-mammary contrast of 100 normal MMGs, and the mean scores of the intra- and extra-mammary contrast were compared between MMGs with and without ACM in both the dense and non-dense group. They classified 100 MMGs into BI-RADS categories 1–5, and were asked to rate the images on a scale of 0 to 100 for the likelihood of the presence of category 3–5 lesions in each breast. Detectability of breast cancer, reading time, and frequency of window adjustment were compared between MMGs with and without ACM.

Results

ACM improved the intra-mammary contrast in both the dense and non-dense group but degraded extra-mammary contrast in the dense group. There was no significant difference in detectability of breast cancer between MMGs with and without ACM. Frequency of window adjustment without ACM was significantly higher than that with ACM. Reading time without ACM was significantly longer than that with ACM.

Conclusion

ACM improves the image contrast of MMGs and shortens reading time.
Lightweight design of automotive wheel made of long glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic
Authors: Xiaoyin Wang , Xiandong Liu , Yingchun Shan , Xiaofei Wan , Wanghao Liu , Yue Pan
Published: May 2015

Aiming to the lightweight design of the long glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic (LGFT) composite wheel, this paper constructs the design process and the strength analysis method of long glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic wheel. First, the multi-objective topology optimization under multiple design spaces and multiple loading cases is conducted to obtain the robust structure, where the complicated ribs generated in design spaces are quite distinct from conventional steel or aluminum alloy wheel. The effects of weighting factors of two objectives and three loading cases on the topological results are discussed. And the long glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic wheel including the aluminum alloy insert is also designed in detail based on the concept structure and molding process. The novel metallic insert molded-in is another typical feature of long glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic wheel. Capturing the material anisotropy, the strength performances of long glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic wheel are simulated by using the finite element analysis method. The results show that there is a larger safety margin than the baseline wheel based on the maximum stress failure criterion. The long glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic wheel of 5.59 kg saves 22.3% weight compared to the aluminum alloy baseline. For the increasing requirement of automotive components lightweight design, the method and consideration in this paper may also provide some ways for the design and strength analysis of other carrying structures made of thermoplastic composite.
Insisting on the unthinkable: A reply to Wetherell and Potter
Authors: Hayter Donna , Hegarty Peter
Published: May 2015

This response to Wetherell and Potter (2015) clarifies both what our article (Hayter & Hegarty, 2014) did and did not attempt to do and considers how to address the questions that it raised. We re-state that genealogy is aimed at opening up questions about present consensus rather than formulating alternative competing psychological systems. We reflect on our own locations in social psychology which lead us to open up questions about the positioning of Potter and Wetherell’s work in late capitalism. We consider alternative answers to the questions that our article raises about their work, and argue that David Harvey’s work might be of broad utility in framing not only Potter and Wetherell’s work, but also in framing a broader – and more global – history of social psychology.
Electronic consultations (e-consults) to improve access to specialty care: A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Vimalananda Varsha G , Gupte Gouri , Seraj Siamak M , Orlander Jay , Berlowitz Dan , Fincke Benjamin G , Simon Steven R
Published: May 2015

Background

We define electronic consultations (“e-consults”) as asynchronous, consultative, provider-to-provider communications within a shared electronic health record (EHR) or web-based platform. E-consults are intended to improve access to specialty expertise for patients and providers without the need for a face-to-face visit. Our goal was to systematically review and summarize the literature describing the use and effects of e-consults.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and CINAHL for studies related to e-consults published between 1990 through December 2014. Three reviewers identified empirical studies and system descriptions, including articles on systems that used a shared EHR or web-based platform, connected providers in the same health system, were used for two-way provider communication, and were text-based.

Results

Our final review included 27 articles. Twenty-two were research studies and five were system descriptions. Eighteen originated from one of three sites with well-developed e-consult programs. Most studies reported on workflow impact, timeliness of specialty input, and/or provider perceptions of e-consults. E-consultations are used in a variety of ways within and across medical centers. They provide timely access to specialty care and are well-received by primary care providers.

Discussion

E-consults are feasible in a variety of settings, flexible in their application, and facilitate timely specialty advice. More extensive and rigorous studies are needed to inform the e-consult process and describe its effect on access to specialty visits, cost and clinical outcomes.
Efficacy of an air curtain system for local pit environmental control for relic preservation in archaeology museums
Authors: Luo Xilian , Gu Zhaolin , Yu Chuck , Ma Tao , Kase Kiwamu
Published: May 2015

Indoor environmental control has been proven to be a critical consideration for preserving in situ unearthed relics in archaeology museum. An air curtain system has been proposed to separate the local environment of funerary pit from its large-space exhibition hall. The isolation efficiency of the air curtain is formulated by using stream function method in this study. The geometrical dimensions and jet flow parameters were investigated in this study through the theoretical formula, to determine their effects on the isolation efficiency and suitable operation mode, respectively. An experimental setup was constructed to investigate the performance and validate the feasibility of an air curtain system for preservation of historical terracotta figurines in their semi-exposed pits in the exhibition hall. The experimental results showed that the air curtain system could be orientated to isolate the relics or buried treasures unearthed in pits from the large open space of the exhibition hall. These results have significant implications for protecting the relics from deterioration in a control environment of a national museum and will contribute towards sustainable protocol for long-term preservation of unearthed relics in archaeology museums.
Reflex Seizures Triggered by Exposure to Characters With Numerical Value
Authors: Erdener Şefik Evren , Tezer F. Irsel , Oğuz Kader K. , Kamışlı Özden , Ergün Eser Lay , Söylemezoğlu Figen , Saygi Serap
Published: May 2015

Reflex seizures can be triggered by a variety of stimuli. We present a case with drug-resistant complex partial seizures originating in right temporal lobe triggered extensively by visual, auditory, and mental exposure to multidigit numbers. The patient was investigated in video-EEG monitoring unit and seizures were triggered by numerical stimuli. Scalp EEG findings suggested a right temporal focus but ictal semiological findings suspicious for an extratemporal area necessitated the invasive EEG study. A right anterior temporal seizure focus was established with invasive monitoring and cortical stimulation studies. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a cortical dysplasia in right anterior temporal lobe and ictal single-photon emission computed tomography confirmed the epileptogenic focus, leading to a right temporal lobectomy and amygdalohippocampectomy and a pathological diagnosis of focal cortical dysplasia type Ia. The patient is seizure-free at the end of the second postoperative year despite repeated exposures to numbers. To our knowledge, this is the first report of seizures triggered by numbers. It is also of particular importance as the reflex seizures are associated with a cortical lesion and it may suggest involvement of right anterior temporal lobe in numerical processing.
Fit for anaesthetic?
Authors: Hussain Hafsah
Published: May 2015

There are no set guidelines to determine a patient’s ‘fitness for anaesthesia’. The anaesthetic pre-operative evaluation is essentially a risk assessment for surgery. In the end, the decision is whether the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks, and whether the patient is happy to go ahead with the procedure knowing the risks involved. The assessment aims to get the patient as fit as possible for their procedure to reduce perioperative complications. The anaesthetist evaluates the patient’s pre-operative state and aims to optimise the management of any co-morbidities. The patient’s GP is key in facilitating this and patients are often referred back to primary care, which can delay surgery. This article covers 10 common things that can result in a referral from pre-operative assessment back to the GP. It discusses how early intervention and management of these conditions in the community prior to referring patients to surgery can help avoid them being deemed ‘unfit for anaesthesia’.
Long-term efficacy and safety of cladribine (2-CdA) in adult patients with mastocytosis
Authors: Barete Stéphane , Lortholary Olivier , Damaj Gandhi , Hirsch Isabelle , Chandesris Marie Olivia , Elie Caroline , Hamidou Mohamed , Durieu Isabelle , Suarez Felipe , Grosbois Bernard , Limal Nicolas , Gyan Emmanuel , Larroche Claire , Guillet Gérard , Kahn Jean Emmanuel , Casassus Philippe , Amazzough Karima , Coignard-Biehler Hélène , Georgin-Lavialle Sophie , Lhermitte Ludovic , Fraitag Sylvie , Canioni Danielle , Dubreuil Patrice , Hermine Olivier
Published: May 2015

Key Points

2-CdA is an effective treatment with a long-term acceptable safety profile in patients with mastocytosis. 2-CdA is effective and safe in indolent systemic mastocytosis and cutaneous mastocytosis refractory to multiple symptomatic therapies.
Diverse models for anti-HIV activity of purine nucleoside analogs
Authors: Khatri Naveen , Lather Viney , Madan A K
Published: May 2015

Background

Purine nucleoside analogs (PNAs) constitute an important group of cytotoxic drugs for the treatment of neoplastic and autoimmune diseases. In the present study, classification models have been developed for the prediction of the anti-HIV activity of purine nucleoside analogs.

Results

The topochemical version of superaugmented pendentic index-4 has been proposed and successfully utilized for the development of models. A total of 60 2D and 3D molecular descriptors (MDs) of diverse nature were selected for building the classification models using decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and moving average analysis (MAA). The values of most of these descriptors for each of the analogs in the dataset were computed using the Dragon software (version 5.3). An in-house computer program was also employed to calculate additional MDs which were not included in the Dragon software. DT, RF, and SVM correctly classified the analogs into actives and inactives with an accuracy of 89 %, 83 %, and 78 %, respectively. MAA-based models predicted the anti-HIV activity of purine nucleoside analogs with a non-error rate up to 98 %. Therapeutic active spans of the suggested MAA-based models not only showed more potency but also exhibited enhanced safety as revealed by comparatively high values of selectivity index (SI). The statistical importance of the developed models was appraised via intercorrelation analysis, specificity, sensitivity, non-error rate, and Matthews correlation coefficient.

Conclusions

High predictability of the proposed models clearly indicates an immense potential for developing lead molecules for potent but safe anti-HIV purine nucleoside analogs.
Image contour based on context aware in complex wavelet domain
Authors: Binh Nguyen Thanh
Published: May 2015

Active contours are used in the image processing application including edge detection, shape modeling, medical image-analysis, detectable object boundaries, etc. Shape is one of the important features for describing an object of interest. Even though it is easy to understand the concept of 2D shape, it is very difficult to represent, define and describe it. In this paper, we propose a new method to implement an active contour model using Daubechies complex wavelet transform combined with B-Spline based on context aware. To show the superiority of the proposed method, we have compared the results with other recent methods such as the method based on simple discrete wavelet transform, Daubechies complex wavelet transform and Daubechies complex wavelet transform combined with B-Spline.
Hedonic and disgust taste perception in borderline personality disorder and depression
Authors: Arrondo Gonzalo , Murray Graham K. , Hill Emma , Szalma Bence , Yathiraj Krishna , Denman Chess , Dudas Robert B.
Published: May 2015

Depression and borderline personality disorder (BPD) are both thought to be accompanied by alterations in the subjective experience of environmental rewards. We evaluated responses in women to sweet, bitter and neutral tastes (juice, quinine and water): 29 with depression, 17 with BPD and 27 healthy controls. The BPD group gave lower pleasantness and higher disgust ratings for quinine and juice compared with the control group; the depression group did not differ significantly from the control group. Juice disgust ratings were related to self-disgust in BPD, suggesting close links between abnormal sensory processing and self-identity in BPD.
Up-regulation of Bcl-2 by CD147 Through ERK Activation Results in Abnormal Cell Survival in Human Endometriosis
Authors: Wang Chaoqun , Jin Aihong , Huang Wenqing , Tsang Lai Ling , Cai Zhiming , Zhou Xiaping , Chen Hao , Chan Hsiao Chang
Published: May 2015

Context:

Human endometriosis (EMS) is characterized by insufficient apoptosis. Our previous studies have shown elevated CD147 expression in human endometriotic tissues and its involvement in endometrial cell apoptosis. However, the exact underlying mechanism remains elusive.

Objective:

The objective was to examine the correlation of the highly expressed CD147 with anti-apoptotic factor Bcl-2 in human endometriotic tissues and to determine the CD147-regulated apoptotic pathway in human endometrial epithelial cell line (HES).

Design:

This was a laboratory study using human tissue analysis and HES cell culture.

Setting:

The setting was an academic research center and hospital.

Patients:

Patients were 30 women with ovarian EMS and 12 women without EMS.

Interventions:

mRNA levels of CD147 and Bcl-2 were evaluated in endometriotic tissues by quantitative real-time PCR. HES cells were transfected with pcDNA3.0-CD147 overexpressing plasmid or immune-depleted by CD147 antibody.

Main Outcome Measures:

Main outcome measures were reverse transcription, quantitative real-time PCR, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) assay, and Western blotting.

Results:

In human endometriotic tissues, Bcl-2 was up-regulated and positively correlated with CD147 expression, accompanied by activated ERK signaling. In HES cells, overexpression of CD147 increased viable cells and up-regulated Bcl-2 expression by activation of ERK signaling. Interference with CD147 function suppressed ERK signaling and decreased Bcl-2 expression, followed by accumulation of apoptotic factors, including cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved poly ADP-ribose polymerase.

Conclusions:

The presently found strong correlations between Bcl-2 and CD147, ERK, and CD147 in human endometriotic lesions and the demonstrated reduced cell apoptosis through CD147-ERK-Bcl-2 intrinsic apoptosis signaling axis suggest that this CD147-regulated signaling may contribute to the enhanced cell survival in the progression of human EMS.
The Role of Alcohol Consumption in Regulating Circulating Levels of Adiponectin: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bell Steven , Britton Annie
Published: May 2015

Context:

The role of alcohol intake in influencing longitudinal trajectories of adiponectin is unclear.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to examine the association between alcohol intake and changes in the circulating levels of adiponectin over repeat measures.

Design, Setting, and Participants:

A prospective cohort study of 2855 men and women (74% men with a mean age of 50 y at baseline) drawn from the Whitehall II study. Data from study phases 3 (1991–1993), 5 (1997–1999), and 7 (2002–2004) were used.

Main Outcome Measure:

Adiponectin serum concentrations (nanograms per milliliter) were measured, and alcohol intake was defined in terms of number of UK units (1 U = 8 g ethanol) consumed in the previous 7 days on three occasions. Cross-sectional associations between alcohol and adiponectin levels were calculated using linear regression. A bivariate dual-change score model was used to estimate the effect of alcohol intake on upcoming change in adiponectin. Models were adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, and smoking status.

Results:

Alcohol consumption was cross-sectionally associated with (log transformed) adiponectin levels (β ranging from .001 to .004, depending on phase and level of adjustment) but was not associated with changes in adiponectin levels over time [γ = −0.002 (SE 0.002), P = 0.246].

Conclusion:

Alcohol intake is not associated with changes in circulating adiponectin levels in this cohort. This finding provides evidence that adiponectin levels are unlikely to mediate the relationship between moderate alcohol consumption and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. It is important to consider dynamic longitudinal relationships rather than cross-sectional associations.
Hans Mayer, Last Knight of the Austrian School, Vienna Branch
Authors: Klausinger Hansjörg
Published: May 2015

Hans Mayer (1879-1955) has been portrayed either as a tragic hero or, more often, as an evil traitor who presided, as the school’s only representative at the University of Vienna, over the decline of the Austrian school in its home country for almost three decades. While from the outset his goal had been to secure the survival of the school in Vienna’s increasingly hostile academic environment, in the course of time he invested most of his energies not in his scientific work but in unending conflicts in the realm of academic politics. Thus for Mayer the school’s defense became more and more an end in itself, justifying any sacrifice on its behalf, even that of his own reputation, for example during the Nazi rule in Austria, 1938-45. This paper tells the story of this strange academic life and its repercussions for the evolution of Austrian economics.
Gurnah and Naipaul: Intersections ofParadiseandA Bend in the River
Authors: Mustafa Fawzia
Published: May 2015

Set at the turn of the twentieth century, as Germany consolidated control over its East African colony, Abdulrazak Gurnah’s 1994 novel Paradise encompasses the last of the “Arab” caravan trading expeditions from the East African coast deep into the interior of the continent. In doing so, it also engages with a complex of intertexts ranging from the Qur’anic and biblical versions of the Yusuf/Joseph story to Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. This essay adds V. S. Naipaul’s A Bend in the River to this mix by reading Gurnah’s historical attentiveness as an overwriting of Naipaul’s second chapter, and the placement of Gurnah’s character, Kalasinga, as a Naipaul figure within the novel’s action. Gurnah’s novelistic play dramatizes the tension and concordance between his own generation’s and Naipaul’s postcolonial articulations.
The Rise and Fall of Homonationalism in Singapore
Authors: Treat John Whittier
Published: May 2015

Pinkwashing and homonationalism are recent terms coined to describe the identification of sexual minorities with the neoliberal state; the former is usually used to critique certain policies within the State of Israel meant to promote its society as tolerant of diversity, the latter with the movement for same-sex marriage and participation in the armed services in the United States. This essay extends the application of these terms to Singapore, where between 2001 and 2004 the state tentatively and partially relaxed its restrictions on homosexual activity (e.g., the “Nation Parties”) in the hope of attracting the “creative class” to the island and its economy, only to reinstate prohibitions when those burgeoning activities were seen as conflicting with Singapore's ideology of “Asian values.” Singapore today remains a nation where male homosexuality is illegal but domicile to a discreet gay subculture.
CALHM1 ion channel elicits amyloid-β clearance by insulin-degrading enzyme in cell lines and in vivo in the mouse brain
Authors: Vingtdeux Valérie , Chandakkar Pallavi , Zhao Haitian , Blanc Lionel , Ruiz Santiago , Marambaud Philippe
Published: May 2015

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide accumulation in the brain. CALHM1, a cell-surface Ca2+ channel expressed in brain neurons, has anti-amyloidogenic properties in cell cultures. Here, we show that CALHM1 controls Aβ levels in vivo in the mouse brain through a previously unrecognized mechanism of regulation of Aβ clearance. Using pharmacological and genetic approaches in cell lines, we found that CALHM1 ion permeability and extracellular Ca2+ were required for the Aβ-lowering effect of CALHM1. Aβ level reduction by CALHM1 could be explained by an increase in extracellular Aβ degradation by insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE), extracellular secretion of which was strongly potentiated by CALHM1 activation. Importantly, Calhm1 knockout in mice reduced IDE enzymatic activity in the brain, and increased endogenous Aβ concentrations by up to ∼50% in both the whole brain and primary neurons. Thus, CALHM1 controls Aβ levels in cell lines and in vivo by facilitating neuronal and Ca2+-dependent degradation of extracellular Aβ by IDE. This work identifies CALHM1 ion channel as a potential target for promoting amyloid clearance in Alzheimer's disease.
Multiple conformations are a conserved and regulatory feature of the RB1 5′ UTR
Authors: Kutchko Katrina M. , Sanders Wes , Ziehr Ben , Phillips Gabriela , Solem Amanda , Halvorsen Matthew , Weeks Kevin M. , Moorman Nathaniel , Laederach Alain
Published: May 2015

Folding to a well-defined conformation is essential for the function of structured ribonucleic acids (RNAs) like the ribosome and tRNA. Structured elements in the untranslated regions (UTRs) of specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs) are known to control expression. The importance of unstructured regions adopting multiple conformations, however, is still poorly understood. High-resolution SHAPE-directed Boltzmann suboptimal sampling of the Homo sapiens Retinoblastoma 1 (RB1) 5′ UTR yields three distinct conformations compatible with the experimental data. Private single nucleotide variants (SNVs) identified in two patients with retinoblastoma each collapse the structural ensemble to a single but distinct well-defined conformation. The RB1 5′ UTRs from Bos taurus (cow) and Trichechus manatus latirostris (manatee) are divergent in sequence from H. sapiens (human) yet maintain structural compatibility with high-probability base pairs. SHAPE chemical probing of the cow and manatee RB1 5′ UTRs reveals that they also adopt multiple conformations. Luciferase reporter assays reveal that 5′ UTR mutations alter RB1 expression. In a traditional model of disease, causative SNVs disrupt a key structural element in the RNA. For the subset of patients with heritable retinoblastoma-associated SNVs in the RB1 5′ UTR, the absence of multiple structures is likely causative of the cancer. Our data therefore suggest that selective pressure will favor multiple conformations in eukaryotic UTRs to regulate expression.