bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Genomic Hybridization Analysis ofYersinia enterocoliticaandYersinia pseudotuberculosisIdentifies Genetic Traits to Elucidate Their Different Ecologies
Authors: Jaakkola Kaisa , Somervuo Panu , Korkeala Hannu
Published: October 2015

EnteropathogenicYersinia enterocoliticaandYersinia pseudotuberculosisare both etiological agents for intestinal infection known as yersiniosis, but their epidemiology and ecology bear many differences. Swine are the only known reservoir forY. enterocolitica4/O:3 strains, which are the most common cause of human disease, whileY. pseudotuberculosishas been isolated from a variety of sources, including vegetables and wild animals. Infections caused byY. enterocoliticamainly originate from swine, but fresh produce has been the source for widespreadY. pseudotuberculosisoutbreaks within recent decades. A comparative genomic hybridization analysis with a DNA microarray based on threeYersinia enterocoliticaand fourYersinia pseudotuberculosisgenomes was conducted to shed light on the genomic differences between enteropathogenicYersinia. The hybridization results identifiedY. pseudotuberculosisstrains to carry operons linked with the uptake and utilization of substances not found in living animal tissues but present in soil, plants, and rotting flesh.Y. pseudotuberculosisalso harbors a selection of type VI secretion systems targeting other bacteria and eukaryotic cells. These genetic traits are not found inY. enterocolitica, and it appears that whileY. pseudotuberculosishas many tools beneficial for survival in varied environments, theY. enterocoliticagenome is more streamlined and adapted to their preferred animal reservoir.
DNA Repair Gene Polymorphism and the Risk of Mitral Chordae Tendineae Rupture
Authors: Kalayci Yigin Aysel , Bulent Vatan Mehmet , Akdemir Ramazan , Necati Murat Aksoy Muhammed , Cakar Mehmet Akif , Kilic Harun , Erkorkmaz Unal , Karacan Keziban , Kaleli Suleyman
Published: October 2015

Polymorphisms in Lys939Gln XPC gene may diminish DNA repair capacity, eventually increasing the risk of carcinogenesis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the significance of polymorphism Lys939Gln in XPC gene in patients with mitral chordae tendinea rupture (MCTR). Twenty-one patients with MCTR and thirty-seven age and sex matched controls were enrolled in the study. Genotyping of XPC gene Lys939Gln polymorphism was carried out using polymerase chain reaction- (PCR-) restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). The frequencies of the heterozygote genotype (Lys/Gln-AC) and homozygote genotype (Gln/Gln-CC) were significantly different in MCTR as compared to control group, respectively (52.4% versus 43.2%,p=0.049; 38.15% versus 16.2%,p=0.018). Homozygote variant (Gln/Gln) genotype was significantly associated with increased risk of MCTR (OR = 2.059; 95% CI: 1.097–3.863;p=0.018). Heterozygote variant (Lys/Gln) genotype was also highly significantly associated with increased risk of MCTR (OR = 1.489; 95% CI: 1.041–2.129;p=0.049). The variant allele C was found to be significantly associated with MCTR (OR = 1.481; 95% CI: 1.101–1.992;p=0.011). This study has demonstrated the association of XPC gene Lys939Gln polymorphism with MCTR, which is significantly associated with increased risk of MCTR.
The Influence of Abutment Surface Treatment and the Type of Luting Cement on Shear Bond Strength between Titanium/Cement/Zirconia
Authors: Śmielak Beata , Gołębiowski Marcin , Klimek Leszek
Published: October 2015

Objectives. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the shear bond strength of zirconia cylinders on a modified titanium surface using different luting cement types.Material and Methods. Eighty titanium disks were divided into two groups (n=40), which were treated with either grinding or a combination of sandblasting and grinding. Then, each group was subdivided into 4 groups (n=10) and the disks were bonded to disks of sintered zirconia using one of four cement types (permanent: composite cement; temporary: polycarboxylate cement, zinc-oxide-eugenol cement, and resin cement). Shear bond strength (SBS) was measured in a universal testing machine. Fracture pattern and site characteristic were recorded. A fractographic analysis was performed with SEM. The chemical analysis of the composition of the fractures was performed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results of the experiment were analyzed with two-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc test.Results. The highest mean values of SBS were achieved when grinding was combined with sandblasting and when composite cement was used (18.18 MPa). In the temporary cement group, the highest mean values of SBS were for polycarboxylate cement after grinding (3.57 MPa).Conclusion. The choice of cement has a crucial influence on the titanium-cement-zirconia interface quality.
Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Its Applications
Authors: Firdhouse M. Jannathul , Lalitha P.
Published: October 2015

Silver nanoparticles possess unique properties which find myriad applications such as antimicrobial, anticancer, larvicidal, catalytic, and wound healing activities. Biogenic syntheses of silver nanoparticles using plants and their pharmacological and other potential applications are gaining momentum owing to its assured rewards. This critical review is aimed at providing an insight into the phytomediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles, its significant applications in various fields, and characterization techniques involved.
Race/Ethnicity, Primary Language, and Income Are Not Demographic Drivers of Mortality in Breast Cancer Patients at a Diverse Safety Net Academic Medical Center
Authors: Parikh Divya A. , Chudasama Rani , Agarwal Ankit , Rand Alexandar , Qureshi Muhammad M. , Ngo Taylor , Hirsch Ariel E.
Published: October 2015

Objective. To examine the impact of patient demographics on mortality in breast cancer patients receiving care at a safety net academic medical center.Patients and Methods. 1128 patients were diagnosed with breast cancer at our institution between August 2004 and October 2011. Patient demographics were determined as follows: race/ethnicity, primary language, insurance type, age at diagnosis, marital status, income (determined by zip code), and AJCC tumor stage. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors related to mortality at the end of follow-up in March 2012.Results. There was no significant difference in mortality by race/ethnicity, primary language, insurance type, or income in the multivariate adjusted model. An increased mortality was observed in patients who were single (OR = 2.36, CI = 1.28–4.37,p=0.006), age > 70 years (OR = 3.88, CI = 1.13–11.48,p=0.014), and AJCC stage IV (OR = 171.81, CI = 59.99–492.06,p<0.0001).Conclusions. In this retrospective study, breast cancer patients who were single, presented at a later stage, or were older had increased incidence of mortality. Unlike other large-scale studies, non-White race, non-English primary language, low income, or Medicaid insurance did not result in worse outcomes.
A Reduced Order Model for the Design of Oxy-Coal Combustion Systems
Authors: Rowan Steven L. , Celik Ismail B. , Gutierrez Albio D. , Escobar Vargas Jose
Published: October 2015

Oxy-coal combustion is one of the more promising technologies currently under development for addressing the issues associated with greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired power plants. Oxy-coal combustion involves combusting the coal fuel in mixtures of pure oxygen and recycled flue gas (RFG) consisting of mainly carbon dioxide (CO2). As a consequence, many researchers and power plant designers have turned to CFD simulations for the study and design of new oxy-coal combustion power plants, as well as refitting existing air-coal combustion facilities to oxy-coal combustion operations. While CFD is a powerful tool that can provide a vast amount of information, the simulations themselves can be quite expensive in terms of computational resources and time investment. As a remedy, a reduced order model (ROM) for oxy-coal combustion has been developed to supplement the CFD simulations. With this model, it is possible to quickly estimate the average outlet temperature of combustion flue gases given a known set of mass flow rates of fuel and oxidant entering the power plant boiler as well as determine the required reactor inlet mass flow rates for a desired outlet temperature. Several cases have been examined with this model. The results compare quite favorably to full CFD simulation results.
Guidance Law Design for a Class of Dual-Spin Mortars
Authors: Guo Qing-wei , Song Wei-dong , Wang Yi , Lu Zhi-cai
Published: October 2015

To minimize the cost and maximize the ease of use, a class of dual-spin mortars is designed which only rely on GPS receiver and geomagnetic measurements. However, there are some problems to be solved when the range is small, such as low correction authority and trajectory bending. Guidance law design for this mortar is detailed. Different guidance laws were designed for the ascending and descending segments, respectively. By taking variable parameter guidance law in the vertical plane and using compensation in the lateral plane, the problems mentioned above were resolved. Roll angle resolving algorithms with geomagnetic measurements were demonstrated and the experiment results proved to be effective. In order to verify the effectiveness, Seven-Degrees-of-Freedom (7-DOF) rigid ballistic model were established and hardware in the loop simulation was introduced. After the transform function of the actuator was obtained, the control model of the shell was improved. The results of the Monte Carlo simulation demonstrate that the guidance law is suitable and the mortar can be effectively controlled.
Asymptotic Vision-Based Tracking Control of the Quadrotor Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Jabbari Asl Hamed , Do Ton Duc
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes an image-based visual servo (IBVS) controller for the 3D translational motion of the quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). The main purpose of this paper is to provide asymptotic stability for vision-based tracking control of the quadrotor in the presence of uncertainty in the dynamic model of the system. The aim of the paper also includes the use of flow of image features as the velocity information to compensate for the unreliable linear velocity data measured by accelerometers. For this purpose, the mathematical model of the quadrotor is presented based on the optic flow of image features which provides the possibility of designing a velocity-free IBVS controller with considering the dynamics of the robot. The image features are defined from a suitable combination of perspective image moments without using the model of the object. This property allows the application of the proposed controller in unknown places. The controller is robust with respect to the uncertainties in the translational dynamics of the system associated with the target motion, image depth, and external disturbances. Simulation results and a comparison study are presented which demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Comparing Supervised Exercise Therapy to Invasive Measures in the Management of Symptomatic Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Aherne Thomas , McHugh Seamus , Kheirelseid Elrasheid A. , Lee Michael J. , McCaffrey Noel , Moneley Daragh , Leahy Austin L. , Naughton Peter
Published: October 2015

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Consensus rightly demands the incorporation of supervised exercise training (SET) into PAD treatment protocols. However, the exact role of SET particularly its relationship with intervention requires further clarification. While supervised exercise is undoubtedly an excellent tool in the conservative management of mild PAD its use in more advanced disease as an adjunct to open or endovascular intervention is not clearly defined. Indeed its use in isolation in this cohort is incompletely reported. The aim of this review is to clarify the exact role of SET in the management of symptomatic PAD and in particular to assess its role in comparison with or as an adjunct to invasive intervention. A systematic literature search revealed a total 11 randomised studies inclusive of 969 patients. All studies compared SET and intervention with monotherapy. Study results suggest that exercise is a complication-free treatment. Furthermore, it appears to offer significant improvements in patients walk distances with a combination of both SET and intervention offering a superior walking outcome to monotherapy in those requiring invasive measures.
Study on Slurry Noise of Electromagnetic Flowmeter Based on ARMA Power Spectrum Estimation
Authors: Gao Song , Li Bin
Published: October 2015

The output signal of the electromagnetic flowmeter measuring the slurry flow will be disturbed by the slurry noise. It is necessary to study the characteristics of slurry noise in order to reduce the interference. The methodology for the estimation of the slurry noise power spectrum based on the ARMA model is presented in this paper, and the relation among the slurry noise, the velocity, and the concentration is obtained by means of the methodology above according to the1/fcharacteristics of the slurry noise. The results by computer simulation experiment show that if the concentration or flow velocity is increased, then slurry noise power spectral density curve in the logarithmic coordinate system will move to the upper right; if the concentration or flow velocity is reduced, then slurry noise power spectral density curve in the logarithmic coordinate system will move to the lower left.
Up-Regulation of Intestinal Phosphate Transporter NaPi-IIb (SLC34A2) by the Kinases SPAK and OSR1
Authors: Fezai Myriam , Elvira Bernat , Warsi Jamshed , Ben-Attia Mossadok , Hosseinzadeh Zohreh , Lang Florian
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: SPAK (SPS1-related proline/alanine-rich kinase) and OSR1 (oxidative stress-responsive kinase 1), kinases controlled by WNK (with-no-K[Lys] kinase), are powerful regulators of cellular ion transport and blood pressure. Observations in gene-targeted mice disclosed an impact of SPAK/OSR1 on phosphate metabolism. The present study thus tested whether SPAK and/or OSR1 contributes to the regulation of the intestinal Na+-coupled phosphate co-transporter NaPi-IIb (SLC34A2). Methods: cRNA encoding NaPi-IIb was injected into Xenopus laevis oocytes without or with additional injection of cRNA encoding wild-type SPAK, constitutively active T233ESPAK, WNK insensitive T233ASPAK, catalytically inactive D212ASPAK, wild-type OSR1, constitutively active T185EOSR1, WNK insensitive T185AOSR1 or catalytically inactive D164AOSR1. The phosphate (1 mM)-induced inward current (IPi) was taken as measure of phosphate transport. Results: IPi was observed in NaPi-IIb expressing oocytes but not in water injected oocytes, and was significantly increased by co-expression of SPAK, T233ESPAK, OSR1, T185EOSR1 or SPAK+OSR1, but not by co-expression of T233ASPAK, D212ASPAK, T185AOSR1, or D164AOSR1. SPAK and OSR1 both increased the maximal transport rate of the carrier. Conclusions: SPAK and OSR1 are powerful stimulators of the intestinal Na+-coupled phosphate co-transporter NaPi-IIb.
Osteopontin Promotes Invasion, Migration and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Human Endometrial Carcinoma Cell HEC-1A Through AKT and ERK1/2 Signaling
Authors: Li Yinghua , Xie Yunpeng , Cui Dan , Ma Yanni , Sui Linlin , Zhu Chenyang , Kong Hui , Kong Ying
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: Osteopontin (OPN) is an Extracellular Matrix (ECM) molecule and is involved in many physiologic and pathologic processes, including cell adhesion, angiogenesis and tumor metastasis. OPN is a well-known multifunctional factor involved in various aspects of cancer progression, including endometrial cancer. In this study, we examined the significance of OPN in endometrial cancer. Methods: The proliferation, migration and invasion ability of HEC-1A cells were detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), Wound scratch assay and transwell. Western blots were employed to detect the expression of Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related factors in HEC-1A cells treated with rhOPN. Results: rhOPN promotes cell proliferation, migration and invasion in HEC-1A cells. rhOPN influenced EMT-related factors and MMP-2 expression in HEC-1A cells. rhOPN promoted HEC-1A cells migration, invasion and EMT through protein kinase B (PKB/AKT) and Extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK1/2) signaling pathway. Conclusions: These results may open up a novel therapeutic strategy for endometrial cancer: namely, rhOPN have important roles in controlling growth of endometrial of cancer cells and suggest a novel target pathway for treatment of this cancer.
Plasma Oxytocin Levels in Untreated Adult Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Patients
Authors: Marazziti Donatella , Baroni Stefano , Giannaccini Gino , Catena-Dell''Osso Mario , Piccinni Armando , Massimetti Gabriele , Dell''Osso Liliana
Published: October 2015

Background and Aim: Given the paucity of information on the possible role of oxytocin (OT) in the pathophysiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), our study aimed at evaluating plasma OT levels in a group of 44 OCD outpatients, as compared with a similar group of healthy control subjects. At the same time, the relationships between OT and clinical features and romantic attachment characteristics were examined as well. Methods: Diagnosis was assessed according to DSM-IV-TR criteria, while the OCD severity was measured by means of the Y-BOCS rating scale. All patients were drug free and not depressed. The romantic attachment was assessed by means of the Italian version of the ‘Experiences in Close Relationships' questionnaire. Plasma OT levels were evaluated by means of a standard RIA kit. Results: The main findings of our study showed that OT levels were increased in OCD patients, as compared with healthy subjects, and negatively related to symptom severity. Positive relationships were detected between OT levels and the fearful-avoidant and dismissing styles of romantic attachments, but only in male OCD patients. Conclusion: Taken together, these findings suggest that OT may play a role in OCD pathophysiology and also in the romantic attachment of patients with gender specificity.
A Novel Bilateral Approach for Suprasellar Arachnoid Cysts: A Case Report
Authors: Fujio Shingo , Bunyamin Jacob , Hirano Hirofumi , Oyoshi Tatsuki , Sadamura Yuko , Bohara Manoj , Arita Kazunori
Published: October 2015

The endoscopic method is used to treat suprasellar arachnoid cysts (SACs) but it is sometimes difficult to make sufficiently sized fenestrations. Creating a larger fenestration on the cyst wall is preferable to prevent closure of the stoma. In this paper, we report a novel endoscopic approach for SAC treatment in which we use bilateral burr holes to achieve a more extensive cyst fenestration. A 7-year-old girl was referred to our hospital because of incidentally detected hydrocephalus by computed tomography scans. Physical examination did not show any signs of intracranial hypertension, but a digital impression of her skull on X-ray implied chronic intracranial hypertension. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed enlargement of both lateral ventricles and a cystic mass occupying the third ventricle. We performed cyst wall fenestration using a bilateral approach in which we created two burr holes to introduce a flexible endoscope and a rigid endoscope. The cyst wall was held by forceps with the flexible endoscope, and resection of the cyst wall was achieved by using a pair of scissors with the rigid endoscope. There were no postoperative complications, and MRI performed 1 year after treatment showed disappearance of the superior part of the cyst wall.
Ectopic Hepatocellular Carcinoma Arising from the Peritoneum in a Patient with a History of Oropharyngeal Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Lee Ji Young , Kim Kwang Hee , Kang Mi Seon , Kim Ki Hyang
Published: October 2015

A subphrenic mass was noted on a surveillance computed tomography (CT) scan of a 65-year-old man who had achieved complete remission of oropharyngeal cancer after concurrent chemoradiotherapy. The mass was 3.2 cm in size and showed a multilobular enhancing pattern along the peritoneal lining. The patient was negative for hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-hepatitis C virus antibody. His carcinoembryonic antigen level was within the normal range. Contrast-enhanced CT revealed no mass in the liver. He underwent surgery, and a pale yellowish soft tumor measuring 3.8 × 3.2 × 1.2 cm was resected. Histologically, the tumor was confirmed to be a hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, he is doing well, and has been followed up without any signs of recurrence.
Cardiac Mechanics in Children with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Xie Lijian , Chee Yuet-yee , Wong Kar-yin , Cheung Yiu-fai
Published: October 2015

Background: Disruption of pulmonary vasculogenesis occurs in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Increased impedance to pulmonary flow secondary to abnormal vascular development may affect ventricular mechanics. Objectives: We aimed to test the hypothesis that cardiac mechanics are altered in prematurely born children with BPD. Methods: A cohort of 47 children was studied: 22 aged 48.9 ± 6.4 months born preterm with BPD (group I), 13 aged 46.3 ± 8.1 months born preterm without BPD (group II), and 12 healthy children aged 53.4 ± 12.2 months born at term (group III). Left (LV) and right ventricular (RV) strain and strain rate were assessed by speckle-tracking echocardiography. Results: The global RV systolic strain rate (p = 0.022) was significantly lower, while RV systolic strain (p = 0.05) and early diastolic strain rate (p = 0.05) and LV longitudinal systolic strain rate (p = 0.06) also tended to be lower in group I than group III. Group I also tended to have lower RV systolic strain (p = 0.09) and early diastolic strain rate (p = 0.049) and LV longitudinal systolic strain rate (p = 0.08) than group II. An increasing trend from group I to III was observed for RV lateral wall and septal systolic strain and strain rate (all p < 0.05). The LV but not RV size was significantly smaller in group I compared with group III (p < 0.05). Multiple regression identified duration of invasive ventilation (β = -0.66, p = 0.032) as an independent determinant of RV systolic strain after adjustment for perinatal risk factors. Conclusion: Impairment of RV myocardial deformation occurs in children with BPD, the magnitude of which is associated negatively with the duration of invasive ventilation.
Factors Contributing to Erythropoietin Hyporesponsiveness in Patients on Long-Term Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hara Takashi , Mukai Hideyuki , Nakashima Takafumi , Sagara Rikako , Furusho Masahide , Miura Shuhei , Toyonaga Jiro , Sugawara Koji , Takeda Kazuhito
Published: October 2015

Background: Factors contributing to erythropoietin (EPO) hyporesponsiveness in patients on long-term continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis are not well understood. Therefore, we investigated the factors contributing to EPO hyporesponsiveness using the EPO resistance index (ERI). Methods: A total of 14 patients (7 males and 7 females, age 65.0 ± 11.9 years) were selected for this study. We defined ERI as the weekly dose of EPO per body weight divided by hemoglobin (U/kg/g/dl/week). Bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to assess the patients' body composition and fluid status. We examined associations between ERI and clinical parameters, such as physiological, chemical and nutrition status, by correlation and multiple linear regression analyses. Results: Peritoneal dialysis duration was 95 ± 23 months, and all patients underwent peritoneal dialysis for >5 years. Hemoglobin, blood pressure and ultrafiltration volume of peritoneal dialysis were 11.5 ± 1.2 g/dl, 123 ± 14/72 ± 8 mm Hg and 834 ± 317 ml/day, respectively. Renal Kt/V and peritoneal Kt/V, which are indices of dialysis adequacy, were 0.32 ± 0.31 and 1.70 ± 0.31, respectively. Age and extracellular water/total body water (ECW/TBW) ratio had significant positive correlations with ERI (both p < 0.05). Levels of C-reactive protein, serum albumin, parathyroid hormone and normalized protein catabolic rate were not significantly correlated with ERI. In a multiple regression analysis, ECW/TBW was independently associated with ERI (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that ECW/TBW was a factor contributing to ERI and that appropriate maintenance of body fluid volume could contribute to low EPO dosing.
Multiple Primary Merkel Cell Carcinomas Presenting as Pruritic, Painful Lower Leg Tumors
Authors: Blumenthal Laura , VandenBoom Timothy , Melian Edward , Peterson Anthony , Hutchens Kelli A.
Published: October 2015

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and highly aggressive neuroendocrine tumor of the skin which almost exclusively presents as a solitary tumor. It is most often seen on sun-exposed regions, historically almost exclusively on the head and neck, with only rare case reports on the extremities. Although recent studies have shown increased incidence with up to 20% on the extremities, here we present one of these rare emerging presentations, with the addition of a unique treatment option. Our patient is an 80-year-old male with a 3-month history of multiple raised, rapidly enlarging tumors on the right ankle. Two separate biopsies were performed and demonstrated sheets and clusters of small blue cells filling the dermis with scant cytoplasm, dusty chromatin, and nuclear molding. Subsequent immunohistochemical stains confirmed the diagnosis of multiple primary MCC. Despite the characteristic immunohistochemical profile of primary MCC, the possibility of a metastatic neuroendocrine carcinoma from an alternate primary site was entertained, given his unusual clinical presentation. A complete clinical workup including CT scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis showed no evidence of disease elsewhere. Instead of amputation, the patient opted for nonsurgical treatment with radiation therapy alone, resulting in a rapid and complete response. This case represents an unusual presentation of primary MCC and demonstrates further evidence that radiation as monotherapy is an effective local treatment option for inoperable MCC.
Extensive Darier Disease Successfully Treated with Doxycycline Monotherapy
Authors: Sfecci Alicia , Orion Camille , Darrieux Laure , Tisseau Laurent , Safa Gilles
Published: October 2015

Darier disease (DD) is a rare dominantly inherited genodermatosis characterized by loss of intercellular adhesion (acantholysis) and abnormal keratinization. DD is often difficult to manage. Numerous treatments have reportedly been used for the treatment of DD, with limited success. Systemic retinoids are considered the drug of choice for treating DD. However, their use is limited by potential deleterious side effects. Considering the recently reported efficacy of doxycycline for Hailey-Hailey disease, an inherited acantholytic skin disorder pathogenetically similar to DD, we report the case of a patient with extensive DD who showed a dramatic response to oral doxycycline monotherapy.
Cytotoxic Effects of Valproic Acid on Neuroendocrine Tumour Cells
Authors: Arvidsson Yvonne , Johanson Viktor , Pfragner Roswitha , Wängberg Bo , Nilsson Ola
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: Histone deacetylases (HDACs) modulate lysine acetylation on histones and are frequently deregulated in cancer. HDAC inhibitors with potent anti-tumour effects have been developed and are now being tested in clinical trials. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of valproic acid (VPA), an inhibitor of class I and class IIa HDACs, on neuroendocrine tumour (NET) cell growth. Methods: Three NET cell lines, GOT1 (small intestinal), KRJ-I (small intestinal), and BON (pancreatic), were treated with VPA and examined with respect to cell viability, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and global transcriptional response. Results: We found that VPA induced a dose-dependent growth inhibition of NET cells in vitro, which was mainly due to activation of extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. VPA induced a major transcriptional response by altering the expression of 16-19% of the protein-coding genes in NET cell lines. Pathway analysis allowed the prediction of alterations in key regulatory pathways, e.g. activation of TGF-β1, FOXO3, p53 signalling, and inhibition of MYC signalling. Analysis of GOT1 xenografts showed reduced growth and reduced Ki-67 index, as well as an increase in apoptosis and necrosis after VPA treatment. Conclusions: We found that VPA treatment has a cytotoxic effect on NET cells of intestinal and pancreatic origin. There are several mechanisms by which VPA kills NET cells, which suggests the possibility of combination therapy. We propose that epigenetic therapy with HDAC inhibitors should be evaluated further in patients with NET disease.
Changes in the Epidemiology of Neuroendocrine Tumours
Authors: Huguet Isabel , Grossman Ashley B. , O'Toole Dermot
Published: October 2015

Background: The reviewing and assessment of epidemiological characteristics of neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) remains a challenge. Despite the fact that it is an uncommon family of neoplasms, several worldwide series have revealed an increasing incidence of this rare condition. However, the data are difficult to compare over time due to changes in classification. Methods: We compared the data related to incidence, prevalence, stage of the disease at diagnosis and survival reported in several series, focusing on the differences and trying to examine some of the probable reasons that may explain the variations in the results between studies. Results and Conclusions: The incidence of NETs is increasing over time, and their incidental discovery due to improved and more frequent imaging does not seem to be enough to explain this rise. Significant differences can be found between geographic regions and races, suggesting that environmental or genetic factors may contribute to the clinical and biological behaviour of these tumours; increasing our knowledge of oncogenesis will be necessary to explain them. As with other rare diseases, creating specific databases and multidisciplinary working groups would improve the accuracy of the information gained.
Distinct Aspects of Left Ventricular Mechanical Function Are Differentially Associated With Cardiovascular Outcomes and All‐Cause Mortality in the Community
Authors: Cheng Susan , McCabe Elizabeth L. , Larson Martin G. , Merz Allison A. , Osypiuk Ewa , Lehman Birgitta T. , Stantchev Plamen , Aragam Jayashri , Solomon Scott D. , Benjamin Emelia J. , Vasan Ramachandran S.
Published: October 2015

Background

There are few data relating novel measures of left ventricular (
LV
) mechanical function to cardiovascular disease (
CVD
) outcomes in the community. Whether distinct components of
LV
mechanical function provide information regarding risk for different
CVD
outcomes is unclear.

Methods and Results

We used speckle tracking echocardiography to quantify distinct components of
LV
mechanical function (measured as
LV
strain in multiple planes) in 2831 Framingham Offspring Study participants (mean age, 66 years; 57% women, 97% with
LV
fractional shortening >0.29). Participants were followed for 6.0±1.2 years for onset of 69 coronary heart disease (
CHD
), 71 heart failure (
HF
), and 199 mortality events. Adjusting for
CVD
risk factors, longitudinal
LV
strain appeared associated with incident
CHD
(hazards ratio [
HR
] per
SD
increment, 1.29; 95% confidence interval [
CI
], 1.00–1.67;
P
=0.05), whereas circumferential and radial strain were not (
P
>0.37 for both); however, the association of longitudinal strain with
CHD
was nonsignificant after Bonferroni correction. By contrast, circumferential strain was a significant predictor of incident
HF
(
HR
per
SD
increment, 1.79; 95%
CI
, 1.35–2.37;
P
<0.0001). Decrements in circumferential, radial, and longitudinal strain measures were related to all‐cause mortality (
P
<0.008 for all). Results remained similar in multivariable models adjusting additionally for the conventional echocardiographic measures of
LV
mass and fractional shortening.

Conclusions

In our large, community‐based sample, distinct components of
LV
mechanical function were associated with specific
CVD
outcomes. Additional studies are needed to replicate these findings and investigate the prognostic and therapeutic utility of these novel measures of
LV
mechanical function.
Improving Adherence to Secondary Stroke Prevention Strategies Through Motivational Interviewing
Authors: Barker-Collo Suzanne , Krishnamurthi Rita , Witt Emma , Feigin Valery , Jones Amy , McPherson Kathryn , Starkey Nicola , Parag Varsha , Jiang Yannan , Barber P. Alan , Rush Elaine , Bennett Derrick , Aroll Bruce
Published: October 2015

Background and Purpose—

Stroke recurrence rates are high (20%–25%) and have not declined over past 3 decades. This study tested effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI) for reducing stroke recurrence, measured by improving adherence to recommended medication and lifestyle changes compared with usual care.

Methods—

Single-blind, prospective phase III randomized controlled trial of 386 people with stroke assigned to either MI treatment (4 sessions at 28 days, 3, 6, and 9 months post stroke) or usual care; with outcomes assessed at 28 days, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post stroke. Primary outcomes were change in systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels as indicators of adherence at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included self-reported adherence, new stroke, or coronary heart disease events (both fatal and nonfatal); quality of life (Short Form-36); and mood (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale).

Results—

MI did not significantly change measures of blood pressure (mean difference in change, −0.2.35 [95% confidence interval, −6.16 to 1.47]) or cholesterol (mean difference in change, −0.0.12 [95% confidence interval, −0.30 to 0.06]). However, it had positive effects on self-reported medication adherence at 6 months (1.979; 95% confidence interval, 0.98–3.98;
P
=0.0557) and 9 months (4.295; 95% confidence interval, 1.56–11.84;
P
=0.0049) post stroke. Improvement across other measures was also observed, but the differences between MI and usual care groups were not statistically significant.

Conclusions—

MI improved self-reported medication adherence. All other effects were nonsignificant, though in the direction of a treatment effect. Further study is required to determine whether MI leads to improvement in other important areas of functioning (eg, caregiver burden).

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.anzctr.org.au
. Unique identifier: ACTRN-12610000715077.
Counsel, Command and Crisis
Authors: Paul Joanne
Published: October 2015

Although the distinction between counsel and command in Hobbes’s works, especially Leviathan, has been often acknowledged, it has been little studied. This article provides background and analysis of this critical distinction by placing it in conversation with the works of Henry Parker and in the context of the English Civil War, especially as regards the discussion of prudence, interests and crisis. In so doing, three conclusions can be drawn. First, it becomes clear that for both Parker and Hobbes, counsel serves as a foundation to their arguments about the placement and function of sovereignty. Second, in grounding their arguments about sovereignty in the discourse of counsel, both authors – intentionally or unintentionally – undermine the previously critical discourse of counsel. Finally, we see that especially Hobbes’s engagement with and overthrow of the discourse of counsel profoundly alters of the terms and focus of modern political debate, moving from a ‘monarchy of counsel’ to a discussion of political sovereignty.
Two Psychological Defenses of Hobbes’s Claim Against the “Fool”
Authors: Robson Gregory J.
Published: October 2015

A striking feature of Thomas Hobbes’s account of political obligation is his discussion of the Fool, who thinks it reasonable to adopt a policy of selective, self-interested covenant breaking. Surprisingly, scholars have paid little attention to the potential of a psychological defense of Hobbes’s controversial claim that the Fool behaves irrationally. In this paper, I first describe Hobbes’s account of the Fool and argue that the kind of Fool most worth considering is the covert, long-term Fool. Then I advance and critically assess two psychological arguments according to which the Fool’s policy of self-interested covenant breaking is prudentially irrational. The first argument holds that, taken together, the deep guilt from early-stage covenant breaking, the cumulative guilt from continued covenant breaking, and the high statistical risk of detection during high-volume covenant breaking (which increases greatly when one is desensitized to guilt) render the Fool’s policy irrational. The second argument holds that the Fool’s policy is irrational because it puts him at risk of adopting a psychologically intolerable view of his fellow covenanters and, specifically, the extent to which they can be trusted.
Spaces of Possibilities
Authors: Kaufman Tone Stangeland , Sandsmark Astrid
Published: October 2015

This article empirically explores how the use of non-religious mediating artifacts may open up or close spaces of possibilities for young people residing in childcare institutions in their processes of religious learning. As opposed to studies focusing on teaching sessions, worship services, or Christian rituals, the present paper examines three situations where one does not automatically expect religious learning to take place. Hence, we argue that the theoretical perspectives employed in this paper allows us to see how seemingly insignificant material objects may play a significant role in processes of religious learning.
The Comeback of Parents in Catechesis Practices
Authors: de Kock Jos , Elhorst Wielie , Barnard Marcel
Published: October 2015

This article investigates which theoretical notions of faith learning can support the integration of church catechesis with parental involvement in faith formation. Based on a discussion of theories of the church as a learning community, four foundational notions of faith learning are identified: faith learning as (1) learning in life, (2) learning in relation, (3) intergenerational learning and (4) emancipatory learning. Next, the implications of these notions for pedagogical challenges faced by faith communities are addressed, and their relevance for academic reflections on catechesis practices are discussed.
A taxonomic review of the genus Goffartia Hirschmann, 1952 (Rhabditida: Diplogastridae) with a note on the relationship of congeners
Authors: TAHSEEN QUDSIA , MUSTAQIM MALKA
Published: October 2015

This paper deals with the descriptions and diagnoses of the species of the relatively rare and poorly-understood genus Goffartia Hirschmann, 1952. A comparative account of the salient morphological characters including stoma, amphids, pharynx, and the male accessory sex organs of the six species viz., G. africana (Micoletzky, 1915) Hirschmann, 1952; G. filicaudata (Andrássy, 1968) Sudhaus & Fürst von Lieven, 2003; G. heteroceri Hirschmann, 1952; G. praepilata Shoshin, 1989 and G. variabilis (Micoletzky, 1922) Hirschmann, 1952 and the recently described G. phalacra Singh, Yousuf, Kumar & Ahmad, 2014, has been given. This paper also discusses the variations among and the relationships between these congeners, and provides an identification key.
Measuring Hope Among Children Affected by Armed Conflict: Cross-Cultural Construct Validity of the Children’s Hope Scale
Authors: Haroz Emily E. , Jordans Mark , de Jong Joop , Gross Alden , Bass Judith , Tol Wietse
Published: October 2015

We investigated the cross-cultural construct validity of hope, a factor associated with mental health protection and promotion, using the Children’s Hope Scale (CHS). The sample ( n = 1,057; 48% girls) included baseline data from three cluster-randomized controlled trials with children affected by armed conflict ( n = 329 Burundi; n = 403 Indonesia; n = 325 Nepal). The confirmatory factor analysis in each country indicated good fit for the hypothesized two-factor model. Analysis by gender indicated that configural invariance was supported and that scalar invariance was demonstrated in Indonesia. However, metric and scalar invariance were not supported in Burundi and Nepal. In country comparisons, configural and metric invariance were met, but scalar invariance was not supported. Evidence from this study supports the use of the CHS within various sociocultural settings and across genders, but direct comparisons of CHS scores across groups should be done with caution. Rigorous evaluations of the measurement properties of mental health protective and promotive factors are necessary to inform both research and practice.
Considerations For Using Subjective Mental Workload Measures In Populations With Cognitive Deficits
Authors: Heiden Siobhan M. , Caldwell Barrett S.
Published: October 2015

Mental workload measurement has been a traditional and well-used method in human factors for over 50 years and continues to be highly relevant today. It has been applied to a variety of fields, including healthcare, though subjects have been clinicians rather than patients. Subjective mental workload measures are based on the assumptions that subjects can report self-functioning (i.e. persons with complete cognitive functioning). Thus, if subjective mental workload is applied to a population of persons with limited and / or dynamically changing cognitive functioning, then the basic assumptions of subjective mental workload are violated. This paper explores the considerations for incorporating subjective mental workload measurement tools into rehabilitative practices for cognitive deficits, such as traumatic brain injury and stroke patients.
Demographics and Personality Factors of Participants in the MSF 100 Motorcyclist Naturalistic Study
Authors: McGowin Gregory S. , McLaughlin Shane B. , Williams Sherry L. , Buche Tim
Published: October 2015

This paper describes a 100-rider naturalistic motorcycle study in terms of participant demographics, riding preferences, and behaviors collected through five questionnaires (NEO-FFI-3, Dula Dangerous Driving Index, Frequency of Risky Behavior, Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scale–IV, and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Rider Survey). The analysis of the questionnaire data is divided into three bike Types (Touring, Cruiser, Sport). The results indicate that self-reported mileage traveled was highest among Touring bike riders, followed by Sport riders, then Cruiser riders. Differences in Personality factors between Motorcycle Types was generally not found, with the exception of lower levels of Neuroticism in riders of the Touring bikes compared to riders of Cruisers and Sport. The survey based measures indicate that the participant sample does include some measurable heterogeneity in neuroticism scores purely based on questionnaires.
An Assessment of SBIRT Prescreening and Screening Outcomes by Medical Setting and Administration Methodology
Authors: Agley Jon , Crabb David W. , Harris Lisa E. , Gassman Ruth A. , Gerke Steven P.
Published: October 2015

Background:

Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) is an efficacious prevention practice. However, little research has assessed differences in prescreening outcomes between inpatient and outpatient primary care or among different prescreening administration methods. This study tested whether administration method (self-administered vs interview) and setting (inpatient versus outpatient) predicted prescreening outcomes in a large sample of primary care patients. Then, among patients who prescreened positive, it tested whether full screening scores differed by administration method and setting.

Methods:

Researchers used binomial logistic regression to assess predicted prescreening outcomes and analysis of variance to assess differences in SBIRT screening scores across a total of 14 447 unique patient visits in 10 outpatient sites and 1 centrally located hospital.

Results:

Controlling for gender, depression, and other substance use, both medical setting and method of prescreening, predicted prescreening results. Among patients who prescreened positive for alcohol, setting also was associated with mean screening scores. However, outcomes were not uniform by substance (eg, alcohol vs other drugs).

Conclusion:

The results support previous studies on this topic that had utilized cross-study comparison or that were not specific to SBIRT prescreening/screening mechanisms. At the same time, nuanced findings were observed that had not previously been reported and suggest the need for further research in this area.
The VanishingDialectic: Shulamith Firestone and the Future of the Feminist 1970s
Authors: Weeks Kathi
Published: October 2015

This essay explores the relation between the feminist present, its recent past, and its possible futures using Shulamith Firestone's The Dialectic of Sex (1970) as a point of reference. Rather than conceive 1970s feminism as either a dead relic of a superseded past or a living legacy, the analysis experiments with temporalities of feminist theory that might better account for both continuity and rupture, for our attractions and repulsions to different moments. This discussion of feminist time focuses on four concepts designed to animate different possibilities for thinking about the present and future of feminist theory. The first of these frames the Dialectic as a utopian manifesto; the second poses it as a vanishing mediator; the third casts the contrast between Firestone's Dialectic and her second book, Airless Spaces (1998), as an allegory of the present; and the fourth presents the Dialectic as an archive of the future.
“Invisibility Is an Unnatural Disaster”: Feminist Archival Praxis After the Digital Turn
Authors: Cotera Maria
Published: October 2015

This essay focuses on the Chicana por mi Raza digital archive, a collection of oral histories and documents from women who were active in social movements during the 1960s and 1970s. The essay argues that digital archiving projects like Chicana por mi Raza challenge conventional notions of humanistic research and reformat the archive in critical ways by shifting it from a static repository to an active site for the co-creation of feminist knowledge. Rereading the archive as a site of encuentro (encounter) and exchange, the essay explores how contemporary feminist scholars can teach (and learn) about the past in ways that recover lost histories and incite new—and unexpected—connections.
Gayle Rubin's Concept of “Benign Sexual Variation”: A Critical Concept for a Radical Theory of the Politics of Sexuality
Authors: Mesli Rostom
Published: October 2015

This essay extracts the concept of “benign sexual variation” from the work of feminist anthropologist Gayle Rubin. The concept has been largely ignored by queer theorists and has often been misunderstood as liberal by feminists. In this essay, I seek to illuminate the concept's radical implications and relevance for contemporary sexual politics. Against the currently dominant view that sexual oppression, sexism, racism, and capitalism are inseparable, and against the frequent conflation of early- and late-1970s radical feminisms, this article revisits early-1970s debates between radical feminists and socialist feminists and highlights the extent to which Rubin's opposition to late-1970s radical feminists relies on early radical feminism. Reading Rubin's contribution in this light allows me to show why it is critical to distinguish between sexual oppression and other forms of oppression as well as why this move is vital to understanding how sexual oppression intersects with other oppressions. In doing so, I draw the theoretical and political consequences of Rubin's concept for a radical politics of sexuality.