bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelial colony-forming cell conditioned media promote angiogenesis in vitro and prevent pulmonary hypertension in experimental bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Baker Christopher D. , Seedorf Gregory J. , Wisniewski Benjamin L. , Black Claudine P. , Ryan Sharon L. , Balasubramaniam Vivek , Abman Steven H.
Published: May 2013

Late-outgrowth endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs), a type of circulating endothelial progenitor cell (EPC), may contribute to pulmonary angiogenesis during development. Cord blood ECFCs from preterm newborns proliferate more rapidly than term ECFCs but are more susceptible to the adverse effects of hyperoxia. Recent studies suggest that bone marrow-derived EPCs protect against experimental lung injury via paracrine mechanisms independent of vascular engraftment. To determine whether human umbilical cord blood ECFCs from preterm and term newborns have therapeutic benefit in experimental neonatal lung injury, we isolated cord blood ECFCs from full-term and preterm newborns and prepared ECFC-conditioned medium (CM) to test its therapeutic benefit on fetal pulmonary artery endothelial cell (PAEC) proliferation and function as well as alveolar type 2 (AT2) cell growth. PAECs and AT2 cells were isolated from late-gestation fetal sheep. Additionally, we administered both ECFCs and ECFC-CM to bleomycin-exposed newborn rats, an experimental model of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Both term ECFC-CM and preterm ECFC-CM promoted cell growth and angiogenesis in vitro. However, when ECFC-CM was collected during exposure to mild hyperoxia, the benefit of preterm ECFC-CM was no longer observed. In the bleomycin model of BPD, treatment with ECFC-CM (or CM from mature EC) effectively decreased right ventricular hypertrophy but had no effect on alveolar septation. We conclude that term ECFC-CM is beneficial both in vitro and in experimental BPD. During oxidative stress, preterm ECFC-CM, but not term ECFC-CM, loses its benefit. The inability of term ECFC-CM to promote alveolarization may limit its therapeutic potential.
Allelic expression imbalance screening of genes in chromosome 1q21–24 region to identify functional variants for Type 2 diabetes susceptibility
Authors: Mondal Ashis K. , Sharma Neeraj K. , Elbein Steven C. , Das Swapan K.
Published: May 2013

Type 2 diabetes (T2D)-associated SNPs are more likely to be expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs). The allelic expression imbalance (AEI) analysis is the measure of relative expression between two allelic transcripts and is the most sensitive measurement to detect cis-regulatory effects. We performed AEI screening to detect cis-regulators for genes expressed in transformed lymphocytes of 190 Caucasian (CA) and African American (AA) subjects to identify functional variants for T2D susceptibility in the chromosome 1q21–24 region of linkage. Among transcribed SNPs studied in 115 genes, significant AEI ( P < 0.001) occurred in 28 and 30 genes in CA and AA subjects, respectively. Analysis of the effect of selected AEI-SNPs (≥10% mean AEI) on total gene expression further established the cis-eQTLs in thioesterase superfamily member-4 ( THEM4) (rs13320, P = 0.027), and IGSF8 (rs1131891, P = 0.02). Examination of published genome-wide association data identified significant associations ( P < 0.01) of three AEI-SNPs with T2D in the DIAGRAM-v3 dataset. Six AEI single nucleotide polymorphisms, including rs13320 ( P = 1.35E-04) in THEM4, were associated with glucose homeostasis traits in the MAGIC dataset. Evaluation of AEI-SNPs for association with glucose homeostasis traits in 611 nondiabetic subjects showed lower AIRG ( P = 0.005) in those with TT/TC genotype for rs13320. THEM4 expression in adipose was higher ( P = 0.005) in subjects carrying the T allele; in vitro analysis with luciferase construct confirmed the higher expression of the T allele. Resequencing of THEM4 exons in 192 CA subjects revealed four coding nonsynonymous variants, but did not explain transmission of T2D in 718 subjects from 67 Caucasian pedigrees. Our study indicates the role of a cis-regulatory SNP in THEM4 that may influence T2D predisposition by modulating glucose homeostasis.
Effectiveness and Safety of Endoscopic Treatment of Benign Biliary Strictures Using a New Fully Covered Self Expandable Metal Stent
Authors: Wagh Mihir S. , Chavalitdhamrong Disaya , Moezardalan Koorosh , Chauhan Shailendra S. , Gupte Anand R. , Nosler Michael J. , Forsmark Chris E. , Draganov Peter V.
Published: May 2013

Background. In patients with benign biliary strictures, the use of fully covered self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) has been proposed as an alternative to plastic stenting, but high quality prospective data are sparse. This study was performed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness and safety of a new fully covered SEMS for benign biliary strictures.
Methods. All consecutive patients with benign biliary strictures were treated with placement of a fully covered SEMS (WallFlex) for 6 months. Short- and long-term stricture resolution, adverse events, and ease of stent removal were recorded.
Results. 23 patients were enrolled. Stricture etiology was chronic pancreatitis (14), postorthotopic liver transplant (4), idiopathic (4), and biliary stones (1). All ERCPs were technically successful. All stents were successfully removed. Short-term stricture resolution was seen in 22/23 (96%) patients. Long-term success was 15/18 (83.3%). All 3 failures were patients with biliary strictures in the setting of chronic calcific pancreatitis. Conclusions. The use of the new SEMS for the treatment of benign biliary strictures led to short-term stricture resolution in the vast majority of patients. Over a long-term followup the success rate appears favorable compared to historical results achieved with multiple plastic stenting, particularly in patients with chronic pancreatitis. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01238900).
Stress-Response Protein RBM3 Attenuates the Stem-like Properties of Prostate Cancer Cells by Interfering with CD44 Variant Splicing
Authors: Zeng Yu , Wodzenski Dana , Gao Dong , Shiraishi Takumi , Terada Naoki , Li Youqiang , Vander Griend Donald J. , Luo Jun , Kong Chuize , Getzenberg Robert H. , Kulkarni Prakash
Published: May 2013

Stress-response pathways play an important role in cancer. The cold-inducible RNA-binding protein RBM3 is upregulated in several types of cancer, including prostate cancer, but its pathogenic contributions are undetermined. RBM3 is expressed at low basal levels in human fetal prostate or in CD133+ prostate epithelial cells (PrEC), compared with the adult prostate or CD133-PrEC, and RBM3 is downregulated in cells cultured in soft agar or exposed to stress. Notably, RBM3 overexpression in prostate cancer cells attenuated their stem cell-like properties in vitro as well as their tumorigenic potential in vivo. Interestingly, either overexpressing RBM3 or culturing cells at 32°C suppressed RNA splicing of the CD44 variant v8-v10 and increased expression of the standard CD44 (CD44s) isoform. Conversely, silencing RBM3 or culturing cells in soft agar (under conditions that enrich for stem cell-like cells) increased the ratio of CD44v8-v10 to CD44s mRNA. Mechanistic investigations showed that elevating CD44v8-v10 interfered with MMP9-mediated cleavage of CD44s and suppressed expression of cyclin D1, whereas siRNA-mediated silencing of CD44v8-v10 impaired the ability of prostate cancer cells to form colonies in soft agar. Together, these findings suggested that RBM3 contributed to stem cell-like character in prostate cancer by inhibiting CD44v8-v10 splicing. Our work uncovers a hitherto unappreciated role of RBM3 in linking stress-regulated RNA splicing to tumorigenesis, with potential prognostic and therapeutic implications in prostate cancer. Cancer Res; 73(13); 4123–33. ©2013 AACR.
Cell Trafficking of Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Tumor Progression
Authors: de la Puente Pilar , Muz Barbara , Azab Feda , Azab Abdel Kareem
Published: May 2013

Blood vessel formation plays an essential role in many physiologic and pathologic processes, including normal tissue growth and healing, as well as tumor progression. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) are a subtype of stem cells with high proliferative potential that are capable of differentiating into mature endothelial cells, thus contributing to neovascularization in tumors. In response to tumor-secreted cytokines, EPCs mobilize from the bone marrow to the peripheral blood, home to the tumor site, and differentiate to mature endothelial cells and secrete proangiogenic factors to facilitate vascularization of tumors. In this review, we summarize the expression of surface markers, cytokines, receptors, adhesion molecules, proteases, and cell signaling mechanisms involved in the different steps (mobilization, homing, and differentiation) of EPC trafficking from the bone marrow to the tumor site. Understanding the biologic mechanisms of EPC cell trafficking opens a window for new therapeutic targets in cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 19(13); 3360–8. ©2013 AACR.
miR-155–Deficient Bone Marrow Promotes Tumor Metastasis
Authors: Yu Fang , Jia Xuemei , Du Fen , Wang Junfeng , Wang Yuzhen , Ai Walden , Fan Daping
Published: May 2013

Infiltration of immune cells in primary tumors and metastatic sites is known to influence tumor progression and metastasis. Macrophages represent the most abundant immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, and evidence has shown that macrophages promote seeding, extravasation, and persistent growth of tumor cells at metastatic sites. miR-155 plays an essential role in immune cell development/function, and its aberrant expression is associated with lymphomas and several solid tumor types. However, it is unknown how miR-155 expression in immune cells affects solid tumor growth and metastasis. To this end, bone marrow transplantation was performed using miR-155–deficient mice as bone marrow donors and wild-type (WT) mice as recipients, and the chimeric mice were inoculated with tumor cells. We demonstrate that bone marrow lacking miR-155 significantly enhanced lung metastasis without a substantial effect on primary tumor growth. Relative to mice with WT bone marrow, miR-155–deficient bone marrow accumulated more macrophages in the spleen and lungs. Further analysis revealed that miR-155–deficient macrophages in metastatic sites exhibited a tumor-promoting M2 phenotype. In vitro study suggested that miR-155–null macrophages were prone to M2 polarization upon incubation with tumor cell–conditioned medium, due to elevated expression of C/EBPβ, an identified miR-155 target. These data, for the first time, demonstrate that miR-155 in host immune cells plays a vital role in modulating solid tumor metastasis by affecting the recruitment and polarization of bone marrow–derived macrophages.

Implications: Targeted inhibition of miR-155 delays tumor development but inhibition in host immune cells may encourage metastasis. Mol Cancer Res; 11(8); 923–36. ©2013 AACR.
Soluble CD23 Levels are Inversely Associated with Atopy and Parasite-Specific IgE Levels but Not with Polyclonal IgE Levels in People Exposed to Helminth Infection
Authors: Rujeni Nadine , Nausch Norman , Midzi Nicholas , Gwisai Reginald , Mduluza Takafira , Taylor David W. , Mutapi Francisca
Published: May 2013

Background: Protective acquired immunity against helminths and allergic sensitisation are both characterised by high IgE antibody levels. Levels of IgE antibodies are naturally tightly regulated by several mechanisms including binding of the CD23 receptor. Following observations that helminth infections and allergic sensitisation may co-present, the current study aims to investigate the relationship between the soluble CD23 (sCD23) receptor, parasite-specific IgE responses and allergic sensitisation in people exposed to the helminth parasite Schistosoma haematobium. Methods: A cohort of 434 participants was recruited in two villages with different levels of S. haematobium infection in Zimbabwe. Serum levels of the 25-kDa fragment of sCD23 were related to levels of schistosome infection intensity, allergen (house dust mite, HDM) and schistosome-specific IgE, total IgE and skin sensitisation to HDM. Results: sCD23 levels rose significantly with schistosome infection intensity but declined significantly with schistosome-specific IgE levels. Furthermore, sCD23 levels were negatively associated with skin sensitisation and IgE reactivity against HDM, but showed no relationship with total IgE. Conclusion: The results are consistent with the suppression of parasite and allergen-specific IgE levels by sCD23. Further mechanistic studies will determine the relevance of this potential regulatory mechanism in the development of helminth-specific immune responses in atopic individuals.
Myocardial Injury After Noncardiac Surgery and its Association With Short-Term Mortality
Authors: van Waes Judith A.R. , Nathoe Hendrik M. , de Graaff Jurgen C. , Kemperman Hans , de Borst Gert Jan , Peelen Linda M. , van Klei Wilton A. , Buhre Wolfgang F. , de Graaff Jurgen C. , Kalkman Cor J. , van Klei Wilton A. , van Waes Judith A.R. , van Wolfswinkel Leo , Doevendans Pieter A. , Nathoe Hendrik M. , Grobben Remco G. , Grobbee Diederik E. , Peelen Linda M. , Kemperman Hans , van Solinge Wouter W. , Leiner Tim , de Borst Gert Jan , Leenen Loek P.H. , Moll Frans L.
Published: May 2013

Background—

To identify patients at risk for postoperative myocardial injury and death, measuring cardiac troponin routinely after noncardiac surgery has been suggested. Such monitoring was implemented in our hospital. The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of postoperative myocardial injury, as measured by troponin elevation, on 30-day mortality after noncardiac surgery.

Methods and Results—

This observational, single-center cohort study included 2232 consecutive intermediate- to high-risk noncardiac surgery patients aged ≥60 years who underwent surgery in 2011. Troponin was measured on the first 3 postoperative days. Log binomial regression analysis was used to estimate the association between postoperative myocardial injury (troponin I level >0.06 μg/L) and all-cause 30-day mortality. Myocardial injury was found in 315 of 1627 patients in whom troponin I was measured (19%). All-cause death occurred in 56 patients (3%). The relative risk of a minor increase in troponin (0.07–0.59 μg/L) was 2.4 (95% confidence interval, 1.3–4.2;
P
<0.01), and the relative risk of a 10- to 100-fold increase in troponin (≥0.60 μg/L) was 4.2 (95% confidence interval, 2.1–8.6;
P
<0.01). A myocardial infarction according to the universal definition was diagnosed in 10 patients (0.6%), of whom 1 (0.06%) had ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Conclusions—

Postoperative myocardial injury is an independent predictor of 30-day mortality after noncardiac surgery. Implementation of postoperative troponin monitoring as standard of care is feasible and may be helpful in improving the prognosis of patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.
Both Carvedilol and Nebivolol May Improve Platelet Function and Prothrombotic State in Patients With Nonischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Karabacak Mustafa , Dogan Abdullah , Aksoy Fatih , Ozaydin Mehmet , Erdogan Dogan , Karabacak Pinar
Published: May 2013

It is unclear whether carvedilol and nebivolol will produce different effects on platelet function and prothrombotic state in heart failure (HF). Thus, we compared their effects on these functions in patients with nonischemic HF. We included 61 patients with symptomatic nonischemic HF having ejection fraction ≤40%. The patients were randomized to carvedilol (n = 31) or nebivolol (n = 30). Analyses were made at baseline, 3, and 6 months. At 6 months, mean platelet volume (MPV) was significantly lowered by both carvedilol and nebivolol therapy. However, MPV tended to be lower in the carvedilol group (7.7 ± 1.0 vs 8.0 ± 0.7 fL, P = .05). Fibrinogen and d-dimer levels were significantly decreased in but comparable in both the groups. Carvedilol and nebivolol have similar beneficial effects on platelet function and prothrombotic state in patients with nonischemic HF.
Leisure-Generated Meanings and Active Living for Persons With Mental Illness
Authors: Iwasaki Yoshitaka , Coyle Catherine , Shank John , Messina Emily , Porter Heather
Published: May 2013

Leisure may potentially play a key role in rehabilitation counseling, including psychiatric rehabilitation. Based on recovery and positive psychology frameworks in which meaning-making is a central concept, this study examined the role of leisure-generated meanings (LGMs) experienced by culturally diverse individuals with mental illness in potentially helping them better cope with stress, adjust to and recover from mental illness, as well as feel more actively engaged in life. One-on-one survey interviews were conducted with African ( n = 35), Hispanic/Latino ( n = 28), Caucasian ( n = 28), and Asian ( n = 8) American adults (aged between 23 and 78) (total n = 101) with mental illness (e.g., bipolar disorder, n = 32; major depression, n = 23; schizophrenia, n = 22) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Using general linear modeling, we found that LGMs significantly predicted the adjustment to and recovery from mental illness, leisure stress-coping, leisure satisfaction, and perceived active living positively, and lower leisure boredom. The findings have implications for psychiatric rehabilitation to better support persons with mental illness from a strengths-based, meaning-centered, and active-living promotion perspective in which leisure seems to play an important role.
The afterglow characteristics and trap level distribution of chromatic rare-earth luminous fiber
Authors: Guo Xuefeng , Ge Mingqiao
Published: May 2013

The samples of luminous fiber with different colors have been prepared by adding the fiber-forming polymer PET chips as base materials and SrAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+ luminescent materials. The phase composition, afterglow decay and thermoluminescent characteristics of the fiber were measured by X-ray diffraction (XRD), with an afterglow tester and a thermoluminescent dosimeter. The results indicated that the existence of the polymer matrix lowered the efficiency of excitation and consumed the energy of emission to some extent. Accordingly, the afterglow brightness of the fiber was less than that of pure strontium aluminate phosphors when excited by the same exciting light. Transparent inorganic pigments had little impact on the afterglow decay laws. When the contrast between the hue of the pigment and the colored light of the fiber was closer, the afterglow brightness of the fiber was higher. When the excitation time was longer, the initial afterglow brightness of the fiber was higher. Increasing the excitation time did not prolong the afterglow life effectively. The transparent inorganic pigments affected the luminescent intensity of the thermoluminescent peak. The E values of white, yellow and green luminescent fiber were lower than that of blue and red luminescent fiber relatively, which basically coincided with the results of the afterglow curves.
Electrokinetic analysis of hydroentangled greige cotton–synthetic fiber blends for absorbent technologies
Authors: Edwards Vince , Condon Brian , Sawhney Paul , Reynolds Michael , Allen Chuck , Nam Sunghyun , Bopp Alvin , Chen Jonathan , Prevost Nicolette
Published: May 2013

Through nonwoven hydroentanglement of greige cotton blends with polyester and nylon, varying degrees of fiber surface polarity, swelling, and absorbance can be achieved. Electrokinetic properties of nonwoven blends made with Ultra Clean™ cotton (100% greige or virgin cotton) and polyester or nylon in 40:60 and 60:40 ratios demonstrated distinct differences in charge, swell, and per-cent moisture uptake capability. An electrochemical double layer analysis of charge based on a pH titration (pH 1.5–11 in 1 mM KCl) was employed to measure the relative fiber and fabric surface polarity (ζplateau), which ranged from −60 to −26 millivolts. A linear relationship of fiber swelling (Δζ) and per cent moisture content is apparent when greige cotton and synthetic fibers are blended. Water contact angles revealed that the cotton/synthetic fiber blends were hydrophobic (contact angle >80°) while retaining significant absorbency. The greige cotton/synthetic nonwoven materials, however, possess absorbent properties characterized by varying degrees of moisture uptake, fiber polarity, and swelling attributes similar to absorbent fluid transport materials present in the layers of incontinence products. Electrokinetic properties of the blended greige cotton/synthetic nonwovens are correlated to absorbent incontinence materials.
Biodegradable mulch fabric by surface fibrillation and entanglement of plant fibers
Authors: Miao Menghe , Pierlot Anthony P , Millington Keith , Gordon Stuart G , Best Adrian , Clarke Michael
Published: May 2013

We evaluated the feasibility of producing biodegradable mulch fabrics from bast fibers using a low-cost nonwoven fabric production process. Commercially available low-cost hemp and linseed flax fibers were carded, lightly needle-punched and then consolidated using a hydroentanglement process to produce fabrics around 200 g/m2 and 0.5 mm thickness. The hydroentanglement process liberated micro and nanofibers that formed a continuous fibrous network entangling and linking the parent fibers to produce fabrics with good tensile properties. Preliminary field trials of the fabrics demonstrate that they can be used to suppress weeds when colored with a commercially available carbon black-based mulch colorant. When in contact with soil the fabric biodegraded and lost strength in a matter of a few months.
Characterizing factors affecting the hot liquid penetration performance of fabrics for protective clothing
Authors: Lu Yehu , Song Guowen , Zeng Hongbo , Zhang Ling , Li Jun
Published: May 2013

Hot liquid hazards present in work environments are well known to be a considerable risk in workplace safety for numerous industries. In this work, the effects of different liquids and temperatures on penetration performance of fabrics were investigated, and the influence of impingement angle on protective performance of liquid penetration was also studied. Several kinds of fabrics for protective clothing were used to characterize the penetration behaviors of protective materials. The results showed the liquid temperature had a significant impact on the stored and penetrated amount of liquids. Different liquids can lead to distinct damage to fabrics. The impingement angle affects liquid transfer (storage and penetration) through the fabric. The addition of a thermal liner or moisture barrier can sharply decrease the penetration. The results provide new insights into the development of functional garments/materials and better methods for evaluating the performance of these materials under hazardous work environments.
Reflection and Double Loop Learning
Authors: Synnott Michael
Published: May 2013

This paper focuses on the potential role of reflection and double loop learning in policy analysis and shared community learning. The discussion is illustrated by the case of HS2, a proposed high-speed railway project in England. It is noted that the foundation of social learning models is a rejection of traditional reliance on technologies or market forces in order to solve societal problems. Citing scholars in this field, the notion of transformative learning is introduced. This describes a process where people gradually change their views on the world and themselves in response to an external ‘trigger’, A tool to facilitate transformative learning is double loop learning.
How to Manage Fiscal Health of Suburban Municipal Governments
Authors: Kim Soojin
Published: May 2013

The following is a review of Rebecca M. Hendrick’s book Managing the fiscal metropolis: The financial policies, practices, and health of suburban municipalities. This review discusses the book’s important managerial insights into municipal fiscal health.
Creativity in the cause of service
Authors: Lamoureux Kevin
Published: May 2013

This article chronicles the creative life of Ken McCluskey, the Dean of Education at the University of Winnipeg in Manitoba, Canada. He looks beyond the ivory tower and, indeed, reshapes the tower. Fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration are evident throughout the life and work of Dean McCluskey. He creates an innovative environment and uses humor in all aspects of his life. McCluskey recognizes the importance of “idea time” and guards against “group think.” His creative life can be described as a spirit of service, engaged in leveling the playing field for unengaged students and marginalized children. His work with aboriginal peoples is highlighted. For McCluskey, success will be measured in the quality of the society left behind for our grandchildren. He models a life lived through creativity.
Additional gastroduodenal stent placement: retrospective evaluation of 68 consecutive patients with malignant gastroduodenal obstruction
Authors: Kang Min Kyoung , Song Ho-Young , Kim Jong Woo , Kim Jin Hyoung , Park Jung-Hoon , Na Han Kyu , Lee Jong Jin , Oh Se Jin
Published: May 2013

Background

Self-expandable metallic stent placement is widely used to manage malignant gastroduodenal obstructions. However, the techniques and effectiveness of additional gastroduodenal stent placement have not been evaluated until now.

Purpose

To evaluate the technical feasibility, clinical effectiveness, and complications of additional gastroduodenal stent placement in patients with recurrent obstructive symptoms after primary gastroduodenal stenting.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 68 consecutive patients who had additional gastroduodenal stents placed for recurrent obstruction. Clinical effectiveness was assessed using technical and clinical success rates, gastric outlet obstruction score improvement after primary and additional stent placement, and complications.

Results

Additional stent placement was technically successful in 66 of the 68 patients (97%) and symptomatic improvement was achieved in 58 (85%). The gastric outlet obstruction score improved after primary stent placement (0.3 to 1.4) and additional stent placement (0.2 to 1.4). Complications occurred in 12 of 68 patients (18%) and were caused by tumor overgrowth ( n = 7), stent collapse ( n = 2), food impaction ( n = 1), jaundice ( n = 1), and duodenal perforation ( n = 1).

Conclusion

Additional gastroduodenal stent placement is technically feasible and clinically effective for patients with recurrent gastric outlet obstruction after stent placement.
Effect of hygrothermal conditioning on the fracture toughness of carbon/epoxy composites cured in autoclave/Quickstep
Authors: Khan Laraib Alam , Mahmood Ali Hasan , Syed Ahmed Shuja , Khan Zaffar M , Day Richard J
Published: May 2013

The hygrothermal effect on the flexural, interfacial and glass transition behaviors of 977-2A carbon/epoxy composites cured in an autoclave and by using Quickstep were evaluated in the previous paper. This article concerns with the hygrothermal effect on the mode I and mode II delamination resistance of the samples cured in an autoclave and by Quickstep. It was observed that the mean initiation and propagation GC values (i.e. GIC and GIIC) of both autoclave and Quickstep 60 cured specimens were apparently reduced after hygrothermal conditioning; however, the data obtained from both autoclave and Quickstep 60 cured specimens in dry and wet states were not statistically significant. The scanning electron micrograph confirmed the enhancement of matrix ductility; however, no effect of this matrix ductility was observed in the GIC and GIIC data.
Counting (green) jobs in Queensland’s waste and recycling sector
Authors: Davis Georgina
Published: May 2013

The waste and recycling sector has been identified as a green industry and, as such, jobs within this sector may be classed as ‘green jobs’. Many governments have seen green jobs as a way of increasing employment, particularly during the global financial crisis. However, the methods used to define and quantify green jobs directly affect the quantification of these green jobs. In December 2010, Queensland introduced a waste strategy that stated intent to increase green jobs within the waste sector. This article discusses the milieu and existing issues associated with quantifying green jobs within Queensland’s waste and recycling sector, and provides a review of the survey that has sought to quantify the true size of the Queensland industry sector. This research has identified nearly 5500 jobs in Queensland’s private waste management and recycling sector, which indicates that official data do not accurately reflect the true size of the sector.
Predictors of Transience Among Homeless Emerging Adults
Authors: Ferguson Kristin M. , Bender Kimberly , Thompson Sanna J.
Published: May 2013

This study identified predictors of transience among homeless emerging adults in three cities. A total of 601 homeless emerging adults from Los Angeles, Austin, and Denver were recruited using purposive sampling. Ordinary least squares regression results revealed that significant predictors of greater transience include White ethnicity, high school degree or equivalent, homeless residence in the 6 months prior to the study, longer period of homelessness, history of arrest and juvenile detention, earning income through informal sources, history of physical abuse, alcohol/drug addiction, and resilience characteristics. Quantitative findings were expanded upon with data from in-depth interviews with 145 of these homeless emerging adults regarding their reasons and motivations for transience. Identifying predictors of transience will facilitate customizing interventions that, when needed, aim to stabilize homeless emerging adults, prevent their mobility, and/or offer mobile services to them on the road.
Congenital Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus
Authors: Anderson Jacqueline L. , Levy Philip Thaler , Leonard Kathryn B. , Smyser Christopher D. , Tychsen Lawrence , Cole F. Sessions
Published: May 2013

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus is a rodent-borne arenavirus that can cause congenital infection affecting the developing central nervous system. When the infection occurs during pregnancy, the virus targets the fetal brain and retina, potentially causing ventriculomegaly, hydrocephalus, chorioretinitis, and neurodevelopmental abnormalities. It has been previously suggested that lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus be added to the list of congenital infections currently included in the TORCH acronym (toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes, and syphilis). We present 2 neonates with antenatally known ventriculomegaly that were diagnosed with congenital lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection after birth. In addition to ventriculomegaly, one had nonimmune hydrops fetalis and the other had intracranial hemorrhage. In view of the seroprevalence of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (4.7%-10%), our findings suggest that screening for congenital lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection should be considered in fetuses and newborns with ventriculomegaly as well as other abnormal neuroimaging findings such as intracranial hemorrhage.
Glut1 Deficiency Syndrome and Novel Ketogenic Diets
Authors: Klepper Joerg , Leiendecker Baerbel
Published: May 2013

The classical ketogenic diet has been used for refractory childhood epilepsy for decades. It is also the treatment of choice for disorders of brain energy metabolism, such as Glut1 deficiency syndrome. Novel ketogenic diets such as the modified Atkins diet and the low glycemic index treatment have significantly improved the therapeutic options for dietary treatment. Benefits of these novel diets are increased palatability, practicability, and thus compliance—at the expense of lower ketosis. As high ketones appear essential to meet the brain energy deficit caused by Glut1 deficiency syndrome, the use of novel ketogenic diets in this entity may be limited. This article discusses the current data on novel ketogenic diets and the implications on the use of these diets in regard to Glut1 deficiency syndrome.
Hypomyelination With T2-hypointense Globi Pallidi in a Child With Fucosidosis
Authors: Jain Puneet , Sharma Suvasini , Kumar Atin , Aneja Satinder
Published: May 2013

A 4-year-old boy presented with progressive neurodegeneration, mild coarsening of facies and spasticity. The classical neuroimaging guided the subsequent investigation of enzyme assay which confirmed the diagnosis of fucosidosis.
Autism and Dietary Therapy
Authors: Herbert Martha R. , Buckley Julie A.
Published: May 2013

We report the history of a child with autism and epilepsy who, after limited response to other interventions following her regression into autism, was placed on a gluten-free, casein-free diet, after which she showed marked improvement in autistic and medical symptoms. Subsequently, following pubertal onset of seizures and after failing to achieve full seizure control pharmacologically she was advanced to a ketogenic diet that was customized to continue the gluten-free, casein-free regimen. On this diet, while still continuing on anticonvulsants, she showed significant improvement in seizure activity. This gluten-free casein-free ketogenic diet used medium-chain triglycerides rather than butter and cream as its primary source of fat. Medium-chain triglycerides are known to be highly ketogenic, and this allowed the use of a lower ratio (1.5:1) leaving more calories available for consumption of vegetables with their associated health benefits. Secondary benefits included resolution of morbid obesity and improvement of cognitive and behavioral features. Over the course of several years following her initial diagnosis, the child’s Childhood Autism Rating Scale score decreased from 49 to 17, representing a change from severe autism to nonautistic, and her intelligence quotient increased 70 points. The initial electroencephalogram after seizure onset showed lengthy 3 Hz spike-wave activity; 14 months after the initiation of the diet the child was essentially seizure free and the electroencephalogram showed only occasional 1-1.5 second spike-wave activity without clinical accompaniments.
Long-Term Outcome and Risk Factors for Uncontrolled Seizures After a First Seizure in Children With Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Khan Raja B. , Morris E. Brannon , Pui Ching-Hon , Hudson Melissa M. , Zhou Yinmei , Cheng Cheng , Ledet Davonna S. , Howard Scott C.
Published: May 2013

Long-term outcomes of seizures that develop during treatment of childhood hematological malignancies have not been described. We analyzed seizure outcome in 62 children with leukemia or lymphoma treated at our institution. There was a median follow-up of 6.5 years since first seizure. Seizure etiology included intrathecal or systemic methotrexate in 24, leucoencephalopathy in 11, brain hemorrhage or thrombosis in 11, meningitis in 4, and no identifiable cause in 12. Seizures remained uncontrolled in 18, and risk factors for poor control included female sex ( P = .02), no seizure control with first antiseizure drug ( P = .08), and longer interval between cancer diagnosis and seizure onset ( P = .09). Poor seizure control after initial antiseizure drug also predicted recurrent seizure after drug withdrawal ( P = .04). In conclusion, seizures are controlled with medications in a majority of patients with hematological cancer. After a period without seizures, antiseizure drug withdrawal in appropriately selected patient has a high success rate.
Subcutaneous Interferon Beta-1a in Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Tenembaum Silvia N. , Banwell Brenda , Pohl Daniela , Krupp Lauren B. , Boyko Alexey , Meinel Michael , Lehr Lorenz , Rocak Sanda , Cantogno Elisabetta Verdun di , Moraga Margaretha Stam , Ghezzi Angelo
Published: May 2013

To expand current knowledge, we examined the safety and tolerability of subcutaneous interferon β-1a in patients with pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis. Records from 307 patients who had received at least 1 injection of subcutaneous interferon β-1a for demyelinating events when aged younger than 18 years were reviewed. Overall, 168 (54.7%) patients had at least 1 prespecified medical event related to or under close monitoring with subcutaneous interferon β-1a or specific to pediatric patients, 184 (59.9%) had nonserious medical events related to treatment or of unknown causality, and 12 (3.9%) had serious medical events irrespective of causality. The most common laboratory abnormalities were increased alanine (74/195; 37.9%) and aspartate aminotransferase levels (59/194; 30.4%). Annualized relapse rates were 1.79 before treatment and 0.47 during treatment. In conclusion, adult doses of subcutaneous interferon β-1a (44 and 22 μg, 3 times weekly) were well tolerated in pediatric patients and were associated with reduced relapse rates.
A new six-parallel-legged walking robot for drilling holes on the fuselage
Authors: Pan Yang , Gao Feng
Published: May 2013

In this paper, a new kind of six-parallel-legged robot is presented. It is designed for drilling holes on the aircraft surface. Each leg of the robot is a 3-DOF parallel mechanism with three chains: 1UP and 2UPS. The three prismatic joints are active joints and can be controlled either by position or by force. First, the task process and the gait plan are discussed and then, according to the requirement, the control method is introduced. After that, the mechanism topology patterns under different working conditions are studied and the control mode of each motor is determined. Then the kinematical model is built up, based on which the position control curves can be obtained. The simulation result shows that the robot can walk pretty well on the fuselage surface and that the actuation forces are quite smooth. Furthermore, the first prototype has been manufactured and some experiments such as walking and manipulation have been done.
Design of a vibration isolation system using eddy current damper
Authors: Paul Partha , Ingale Chetan , Bhattacharya Bishakh
Published: May 2013

This article aims at modeling, analysis and design of a passive vibration isolation system using a magnetic damper with high efficiency and compactness. The experimental set-up was developed for a single degree-of-freedom vibration isolation system, where the damper consists of two elements: an outer stationary conducting tube made up of copper and a moving core made up of an array of three ring-shaped neodymium magnets of Nd–Fe–B alloy separated by four block cylinders made of mild steel that are fixed to a steel rod. The generation of eddy currents in the conductor and its resistance causes the mechanical vibration to dissipate heat energy. The vibration response of the system is obtained starting from a low-frequency range. The proposed magnetic damper achieves a maximum transmissibility value less than two for a natural frequency that is less than 10 Hz and the excitations at higher frequencies are successfully isolated. Numerical and experimental studies were carried out for a range of system parameters which show that isolators based on magnetic damping could be very effective for passive vibration isolation. Further, a theoretical model for an active isolation system is proposed in order to reduce the transmissibility at resonance. It is envisaged that the combined active–passive eddy current damper could be effectively used for vibration isolation.
Immediate Effect of Internal Reward on Visual Adaptation
Authors: Pascucci David , Turatto Massimo
Published: May 2013

In the past decade, there has been an increasing interest in the effects of rewards on visual perception. Exogenous rewards have been shown to increase visual sensitivity and to affect attentional selection. Human beings, however, also feel rewarded by the correct execution of a task. It has been proposed that this form of endogenous reward triggers reinforcement signals in the brain, making the sensory system more sensitive to stimuli that have been extensively and repeatedly paired with the rewarding experiences and modulating long-term cortical plasticity. Here, we report the striking observation that a well-known visual illusion, the tilt aftereffect, which is due to a form of short-term cortical plasticity, is immediately enhanced by a concurrent and independent target-recognition process. Our results show that endogenous rewards can alter visual experience with virtually no delay.
World Cup’s Impact on Mental Health and Lifestyle Behaviors in the General Population
Authors: Lau Joseph Tai Fai , Tsui Hi Yi , Mo Phoenix Kit Han , Mak Winnie Wing Sze , Griffiths Sian
Published: May 2013

Objectives. This study compares the prevalence of health-related behaviors and mental health well-being in the Hong Kong general male population before and after the 2006 World Cup finals. Study design. Two anonymous, serial, comparable cross-sectional surveys. Methods. A total of 500 and 530 adult Chinese men, respectively, were interviewed in 2 telephone surveys before and after the finals. Results. Those interviewed after the World Cup were more likely to eat snacks more than 3 d/wk, to be binge drinkers, or to spend more than 2 h/d communicating with family members. They were less likely to have higher General Health Questionnaire or lower Short Form-36 Health Survey Vitality scores (odds ratio [OR] = 0.684 and 0.765), to perceive family-related or work-related stress (OR = 0.327 and 0.345), or to self-report being sick or have visited a doctor (OR = 0.645 and 0.722). All variables between watchers versus nonwatchers of World Cup games were significant or marginally significant. Conclusions. Public health education should be incorporated into global sport events.
Differences in Selected Lifestyle Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease Between Sri Lankans in Oslo, Norway, and in Kandy, Sri Lanka
Authors: Tennakoon Sampath U. B. , Kumar Bernadette N. , Meyer Haakon E.
Published: May 2013

Sri Lankans in Oslo have previously been shown to have lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared with those in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Here we present lifestyle risk factors for cardiovascular diseases: frequency and type of fat consumed, frequency of fruit and vegetable intake, alcohol consumption, and leisure time physical activity between 1145 Sri Lankans living in Oslo and 678 Tamils and Sinhalese Sri Lankans living in Kandy as possible explanatory factors for the differences observed. Those in Oslo were consuming healthier fats and reported higher levels of physical activity but frequency of vegetable and fruit consumption was lower. Alcohol consumption among women was negligible. Type of fats consumed might be protective for Oslo group compared with predominantly saturated fat diet in Kandy. Higher leisure time physical activity may also be protective for the Oslo group. Higher frequency of consumption of vegetables and fruits may be beneficial in Kandy.
Barriers to Immunization Among Children of HIV-Infected Mothers in Kolkata, India
Authors: Sensarma Pinaki , Bhandari Subhasis , Kutty V. Raman
Published: May 2013

More than one fourth of children of HIV-infected mothers living in Kolkata city are not completely immunized by 12 months of age. This qualitative study aims to explore the barriers to immunization of these children as perceived by their caregivers and the local health care service providers. In-depth interviews were conducted after obtaining written informed consent. Audio recording and hand-recorded notes were used with permission. The transcripts were coded and analyzed using grounded theory. Deteriorating socioeconomic status, tightening of time schedule of caregivers due to illness in the family, stigma, discrimination, and lack of awareness about immunization prove to be major barriers for immunization of the HIV-exposed children. Interplay of these factors coupled with harassment and negative attitudes of service providers toward HIV-affected/HIV-infected people also impede immunization. The intervention efforts need to address these social barriers and adverse life events to improve immunization coverage.
Betel Quid Chewing Without Tobacco
Authors: Song Han , Wan Yi , Xu Yong-Yong
Published: May 2013

Betel quid without tobacco is an important factor influencing the incidences of oral cancer and precancer. This study systematically evaluated the associations between betel quid containing no tobacco and oral cancer and precancer, with implications for the prevention of oral cancer. We searched MEDLINE, ISI Web of Science, and EMBASE (to April 2011) and retrieved studies that investigated the relationship between chewing betel quid and oral cancer (or precancer). We performed a meta-analysis to summarize the published data and describe the prevalence of betel quid use with regard to cancerous diseases. In all, 19 eligible studies that reported odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for oral cancer with respect to betel quid were included. The analysis identified an association suggesting that betel quid might be an important risk factor for oral cancer and precancer. The results of this review suggest that betel-chewing-cessation programs should be developed to help prevent oral diseases.
Bridging the gap: does a specialist eating disorder service, aimed at developing a continuum of community care, make a difference?
Authors: Newton John , Bosanac Peter , Mancuso Sam , Castle David
Published: May 2013

Objective:

In 2010, the authors identified in a separate publication, Mind the evidence gap, the sparse evidence-base for the treatment of adult anorexia nervosa and barriers to accessing care. We report on the ensuing development, implementation and first 18-month results of a novel eating disorder service bridging the primary and specialist continuum of care in Victoria, Australia.

Method:

Using literature review, stakeholder, and consumer and carer consultation, a model for a community eating disorder service was developed and then implemented. All patients entering the service were then assessed at intake and, if they gave consent, at 12 month follow-up.

Results:

From December 2010 to July 2012, 208 patients accessed The Body Image Eating Disorders Treatment and Recovery Service (BETRS). Fifty-three per cent had a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa and the mean number of co-morbid psychiatric diagnoses was two. Twenty-three per cent attended a day patient programme and showed a significant improvement in their body mass index. Measures of depression, anxiety and eating disorder symptomatology showed a concomitant, significant decrease.

Conclusions:

The development of BETRS has led to markedly improved access and effectiveness of specialist services in the region.
Immersive Technology Strategies
Authors: Wortley David
Published: May 2013

This newsletter touches on several recent developments, opportunities, and events in gaming, simulations, gamification, and serious games—for example, The De Montfort University Games Festival, Gamification Workshops in Malaysia and Thailand, Thaisim 2013 and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Workshop, Call for Workshop Proposals GALA (Games and Learning Alliance) Serious Games Conference at Dassault Systemes HQ, Paris, ImREAL Augmented Virtuality Video, Machinima for Business Communication, Caspian Learning White Papers on Games-Based Learning, Unity Serious Games Website, Upcoming Conferences and Seminars, Heroes Gallery—Cathy Davidson and Rohit Talwar.