bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Femoroacetabular Impingement in Athletes
Authors: Byrd J.W. Thomas
Published: August 2013

Hip disorders are increasingly recognized as a cause of dysfunction and disability among athletes. Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a common source of hip problems. While FAI may sometimes be present as an incidental asymptomatic finding, substantial secondary joint damage may occur. This problem is often observed in young adult, and even adolescent, athletes. FAI morphology results in a breakdown of the labrum and articular surfaces from forces generated during sporting activities that would otherwise be well tolerated by a normal joint. A description of the pathomechanics is included. Detection of pathological FAI is important to minimize its harmful effects. The history, examination findings, and pertinent imaging studies are detailed. Nonoperative measures, including training modifications and pelvic stabilization exercises, may be of some benefit in modulating symptoms. When secondary joint damage has occurred, surgical intervention is usually necessary. While most can be managed with arthroscopic techniques, open and mini-open methods are discussed as well. With proper recognition and treatment, most athletes can expect to return to sports, although the long-term implications of high-level activities must still be considered. These results are summarized.
Computed Tomography Analysis of the Femoral Tunnel Position and Aperture Shape of Transportal and Outside-In ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Kim Jae Gyoon , Chang Min Ho , Lim Hong Chul , Bae Ji Hoon , Ahn Jin Hwan , Wang Joon Ho
Published: August 2013

Background:

The desire to perform independent femoral drilling in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has prompted interest in both the transportal (TP) and outside-in (OI) techniques. However, there have been no in vivo studies on the differences in femoral aperture shape between the 2 techniques.

Purpose:

To evaluate the femoral tunnel aperture shape and femoral tunnel position between ACL reconstruction using the TP and OI techniques.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A total of 80 patients were randomized to undergo double-bundle ACL reconstruction using either the TP (n = 40) or OI (n = 40) technique. The femoral tunnel aperture shape (height/width ratio), aperture axis angle (angle between the aperture axis and femoral shaft axis), and femoral tunnel position were assessed by computed tomography.

Results:

The mean height/width ratio of the anteromedial (AM) femoral tunnels in the TP group (1.35 ± 0.16) was significantly more ellipsoidal than that in the OI group (1.22 ± 0.16) ( P = .008). There was no difference between the 2 groups in the posterolateral (PL) tunnels (TP, 1.32 ± 0.23; OI, 1.35 ± 0.29; P = .99). The mean aperture axis angle of the PL femoral tunnels in the OI group was significantly more perpendicular to the femoral shaft axis and had a more variable range than that in the TP group ( P = .007). The mean PL femoral tunnel position in the OI group was significantly shallower and a little higher than that in the TP group ( P = .006).

Conclusion:

The TP technique revealed a more ellipsoidal AM femoral tunnel aperture than the OI technique. The mean PL femoral tunnel position in the OI group was significantly shallower than that in the TP group, with a more variable and more perpendicular aperture axis angle to the femoral shaft axis.

Clinical Relevance:

The TP technique might be more advantageous than the OI technique in terms of graft coverage, with a more ellipsoidal AM femoral tunnel and more horizontal and consistent PL aperture axis angle. In addition, it may be useful to consider the shallower PL femoral tunnel positions created with the OI technique.
Biomechanical Properties of Suture Anchor Repair Compared With Transosseous Sutures in Patellar Tendon Ruptures
Authors: Ettinger Max , Dratzidis Antonios , Hurschler Christof , Brand Stephan , Calliess Tilman , Krettek Christian , Jagodzinski Michael , Petri Maximilian
Published: August 2013

Background:

Ruptures of the patellar tendon are debilitating injuries requiring surgical repair. Reliable data about the most appropriate suture technique and suture material are missing. The standard procedure consists of refixing the tendon with sutures in transpatellar tunnels, sometimes combined with augmentation.

Hypothesis:

Suture anchors provide at least equal results concerning gap formation during cyclic loading and ultimate failure load compared with transosseous suture repair.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 30 human cadaveric patellar tendons underwent tenotomy followed by repair with 5.5-mm titanium suture anchors, 5.5-mm resorbable hydroxyapatite suture anchors, or transpatellar suture tunnels with No. 2 Ultrabraid and the Krackow whipstitch technique. Biomechanical analysis included pretensioning the constructs at 20 N for 30 seconds and then cyclic loading of 250 cycles between 20 and 100 N at 1 Hz in a servohydraulic testing machine with measurement of elongation. After this, ultimate failure load and failure mode analysis was performed.

Results:

Compared with transosseous sutures, tendon repairs with suture anchors yielded significantly less gap formation during cyclic loading ( P < .05) and resisted significantly higher ultimate failure loads ( P < .05). Common failure mode was pullout of the eyelet within the suture anchor in the hydroxyapatite anchor group and rupture of the suture in the titanium anchor group and—at lower load to failure—in the transosseous group.

Conclusion:

Patellar tendon repair with suture anchors yields significantly better biomechanical results than repair with the commonly applied transosseous sutures.

Clinical Relevance:

These findings may be of relevance for future clinical treatment of patellar tendon ruptures. Randomized controlled clinical trials comparing suture anchors to transosseous suture repair are desirable.
Revenue Volatility in German Nonprofit Sports Clubs
Authors: Wicker Pamela , Longley Neil , Breuer Christoph
Published: August 2013

Revenue volatility hinders the planning within nonprofit organizations, and as a consequence, it can influence the organization’s contribution to public welfare. To analyze the extent of revenue volatility and its determinants, this paper uses a comprehensive, longitudinal, data set of German nonprofit sports clubs ( n = 724). It distinguishes between systematic volatility and club-specific volatility, and argues that a complete understanding of the sources and impacts of volatility requires one to clearly distinguish between the two components. Empirical results indicate that revenue diversification can significantly reduce club-specific volatility, but has more minimal benefits for lowering systematic volatility. It also reveals that clubs that rely more heavily on membership fees, and less on subsidies, appear to have reduced levels of systematic and club-specific volatility, with the impact being much greater for the latter.
Data-driven state detection algorithm for multi-scale systems and its application
Authors: Deliang Zeng , Jiwei Liu , Jizhen Liu
Published: August 2013

To improve the security and reliability of equipment and reduce their failure rate, a data-driven state detection algorithm was proposed. The concepts of multi-scale system, multi-scale entropy and multi-scale exergy were defined. The algorithm is used for multi-scale systems whose state parameters change over time and have the characteristic of increasing monotonically on a dominant scale. An abrasion index for the middle speed roller ring mill was constructed, which was used to monitor the states of the instruments. Noise that affected the accuracy of the results was analyzed. The results of simulation experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm, which can provide a technical basis for condition maintenance.
Palaeoenvironmental implications of the prehistorical catastrophes in relation to the Lajia Ruins within the Guanting Basin along the Upper Yellow River, China
Authors: Huang Chun Chang , Pang Jiangli , Zhou Yali , Su Hongxia , Zhang Yuzhu , Wang Longsheng
Published: August 2013

Archaeological excavations have exposed a shocking picture of the prehistorical catastrophes in the Lajia Ruins in the upper Yellow River. The grouped skeletons resting on the dwelling floors show a vivid scene of the mortal struggle of human being during catastrophes. Geological records of the major disasters in relation to the devastation of this prehistorical settlement were investigated by detailed field observations, sedimentological analysis and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and 14C dating. The results show that the prehistorical community of the Qijia Culture migrated into the Guanting Basin at c. 4200 yr BP. They chose the loess-blanketed riverbanks to build their settlement and cultivate millet crops. At c. 3950 yr BP, immediately followed by a major earthquake, the settlement was overtaken by immense mudflows coming along the tributary gullies from the hillsides behind. The enormous mudflows suddenly buried and destroyed the dwellings and killed the women and children at their homes. The source of the catastrophic mudflows was traced upslope to the gully heads behind the ruins, where the palaeoearthquake together with the rainstorms and flash floods induced enormous mass wasting on the hillsides. Referring to the causations of the catastrophic debris flows and landslides in the region, it is inferred that the soil erosion, mass wasting and accumulation of debris on the hillsides were intensified largely by human disturbance of the landscape by bush clearance from 6000 yr BP to 3950 yr BP. During the climate event of 4200–4000 yr BP, enhanced human activities and over-exploitation of natural resources increased the vulnerability of the communities to detrimental environmental change and catastrophe. This means that the prehistorical catastrophic mudflows were created partly by the early settlers themselves. These results are of important implications in understanding the prehistorical environmental change in the environmentally sensitive zones over the world.
Precarious experiences of Indians in Australia on 457 temporary work visas
Authors: Velayutham Selvaraj
Published: August 2013

The study of temporary skilled migration in Australia is relatively new. As a rapidly emerging source of labour and settlers for Australia’s immigration programme, temporary skilled migration will have a major and potentially long-lasting impact on Australia. Since the mid-1990s, temporary skilled migration (under the subclass 457 visa programme) has overtaken permanent migration to Australia. India is now the largest and fastest growing source of temporary skilled migrants. This is a major new development in Australian migration history; yet, to date, there has been little qualitative research into the subjective experiences, motivations and settlement patterns of Indian temporary skilled migrants in Australia, from the perspective of the migrant. This article presents findings from a 3-year qualitative study on the experiences of temporary skilled migrants from India living and working in Australia. It argues that many of the quantitative studies on this topic fail to offer a nuanced reading of these workers’ experiences in Australia, in particular, their situations of vulnerability engendered by the recruitment process, visa conditions, unlawful employment practices and living arrangements.
‘I am King’: Financialisation and the paradox of precarious work
Authors: Chan Sharni
Published: August 2013

Financialisation is now an emerging field of research. Recently, the field has attracted criticism for its focus on large-scale economic processes, such as profit accumulation based not on production, but on a diversification of financial risk management tools – a focus which ignores the way in which individuals and households experience financialisation in everyday life. In addressing this gap, theorists have sought to understand financialisation as it relates to individuals as consumers and investors, increasing their need to integrate financial calculation into daily life. This article takes the analysis two steps further. First, it argues that precarious work is actually an aspect of financialisation, based on risk-shifting by employing organisations – a process of structural change in the labour market that actually undermines individual workers’ capacity to manage financial risk successfully. Second, it argues that financialisation is an ideology or narrative of individual responsibility, which seeks to legitimate structural change by promising emancipation through individual calculation. It draws on interviews with precarious workers to explore the gap between such norms of financial self-determination and the lived experience of insecure employment. It identifies this paradox of precariousness by focusing on people in professional occupations, who in theory are best placed to successfully negotiate economic change.
The response of unions to the rise of precarious work in Britain
Authors: Wright Chris F
Published: August 2013

There has been significant growth of precarious work in Britain over the past three decades. This article examines the strategies adopted by unions to counteract this trend. It uses Weil’s ‘strategic choice framework’ to assess the attempts of the Trades Union Congress to encourage affiliates to adopt innovative ways of reaching precarious workers and examines the extent to which these strategies have been implemented. Unfavourable external shifts have placed greater pressure on unions to develop appropriate internal strategies and structures to strengthen their capacity for reaching precarious workers. The Trades Union Congress has encouraged unions to use community unionism strategies to organise precarious workers outside of the workplace and sustainable sourcing strategies to regulate their conditions through procurement mechanisms. These strategies are relatively effective means of reaching precarious workers in the context of legal constraints on unions and changes in the organisation of work and production. The internal governance structures of the British union movement need to be reformed if these strategies are to be adopted more widely.
Precarious work, neo-liberalism and young people’s experiences of employment in the Illawarra region
Authors: Burrows Scott
Published: August 2013

Understanding young people’s employment experiences and transitions gives a greater appreciation of the nature of precarious work. Drawing on interview data with 30 participants from research conducted in 2011–2012, this article examines young people’s experiences of employment in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Australia. Levels of unemployment and under-employment above the national average reflect two decades of globalised restructuring of the steel, coal and manufacturing industries which, together with agriculture, have historically been the region’s economic base. The growth of service and knowledge industries has been accompanied by new, ‘atypical’ or insecure work patterns. The interview data indicate that young people’s diverse experiences of transition and choice in leaving school, commencing training or further education, and entering the labour market are accompanied by a range of understandings of employment and precarious work. These experiences highlight the difficulties, divisions and contradictions in a changing regional labour market and suggest how the ideologies and practices of neo-liberalism shape and are embedded in regional labour markets and precarious work more generally.
Aeroelastic characteristics of linear and nonlinear piezo-aeroelastic energy harvester
Authors: Bae Jae-Sung , Inman Daniel J
Published: August 2013

In the present study, a piezo-aeroelastic energy harvester using nonlinear aeroelastic behaviors is proposed, and their characteristics and performance are investigated. The energy harvester is modeled by a two-dimensional typical section airfoil. The nondimensional parameters of the harvester are introduced, and the nondimensional piezo-aeroelastic equations are formulated. For the piezo-aeroelastic analysis, the root-locus method and time-integration method are used, and the present method is verified with experimental and analytical results. The iterative method is introduced to calculate the frequency response functions of a nonlinear piezo-aeroelastic energy harvester. The aeroelastic characteristics of a linear piezo-aeroelastic energy harvester and the effects of parameters are investigated. The results show that the linear piezo-aeroelastic energy harvester can be used to generate electricity only at the vicinity of flutter speed. It is assumed that the nonlinear piezo-aeroelastic energy harvester has free play and cubic hardening in pitch. For free play, nonlinear aeroelastic results show that stable limit cycle oscillations are observed in the wide range of air speed below flutter speed when the frequency ratio is 1.3, and unstable limit cycle oscillations are observed at air speeds over flutter speed when the frequency ratio is 0.3. For cubic hardening, unstable limit cycle oscillations are observed at air speeds below flutter speed when the frequency ratio is 0.3, and stable limit cycle oscillations are observed at air speeds over flutter speed when the frequency ratio is 1.3. Finally, the authors discussed how to use these aeroelastic responses for piezo-aeroelastic energy harvesting.
Application of passive control to energy harvester efficiency using a nonideal portal frame structural support system
Authors: Iliuk Itamar , Balthazar José M , Tusset Angelo M , Piqueira José RC , de Pontes Bento R , Felix Jorge LP , Bueno Átila M
Published: August 2013

An analysis of a new energy harvester model is presented, based on a simple portal frame structure, considered a nonideal system due to the kind of excitation influenced by the response of the system, such as a direct current motor with limited power supply. The horizontal motion of the portal frame is considered under a nonideal excitation, and the approximated mathematical model of the system is obtained, considering the coupled oscillators. To model the piezoelectric coupling, the nonlinearities of the piezoelectric material were considered. A constantly sustained energy harvesting is essential for using these devices in real applications; for this, a control strategy is required. Passive control was obtained by means of a nonlinear substructure with properties of nonlinear energy sink. Numerical simulations were performed in order to find best values of control parameters. To check the robustness of the control strategy, an analysis considering uncertainties in the parameters of the model was performed, showing the efficiency of the passive control (energy pumping) in the suppression of the chaotic behavior, as well as the sensitivity of the control system to parametric errors. Passive control leads the system to a stable periodic orbit, allowing a more efficient energy harvest, due to the higher peak-to-peak amplitude of oscillation mean value. The passive control strategy eliminates the need for an active microcontroller to stabilize the system in a periodic orbit, improving the energy budget (harvested versus expended). The results show the displacement of the structure and the maximum power harvested by the device with and without passive nonlinear energy sink. It can be concluded that the application of passive control was successful. The control was robust and improved the energy harvested through the suppression of the chaotic motion, leading the system to a periodic orbit with stable amplitude of vibration, without damaging the structure.
Passive damping of carbon nanotube thread
Authors: Hehr Adam , Schulz Mark , Shanov Vesselin , Song Albert
Published: August 2013

Passive damping of as-spun carbon nanotube thread was studied here as a multifunctional attribute to continuous fiber composite materials or nanocomposites. Many researchers have doped polymeric materials like epoxy with carbon nanotubes to achieve enhanced damping for composite materials; yet thread or yarn has to be rigorously explored. As a result, this study quantifies carbon nanotube thread material damping within its linear range (~1% strain) at a single frequency and analyzes this damping as a function of temperature from room temperature to roughly 100°C. From these tests, it was found that three distinct carbon nanotube threads exhibited loss factors near 0.05 at room temperature, and a single carbon nanotube thread maintained a loss factor near 0.035 from room temperature to 100°C after the first thermal cycle.
The Redistributive Potential of Transfer Taxation
Authors: Hines James R.
Published: August 2013

The United States imposes substantial federal taxes on estates, gifts, and generation-skipping transfers exceeding high exemption levels (currently US$5.25 million). These transfer taxes are very distortionary compared to other federal taxes, and raise little revenue; their appeal lies in their distributional properties. Gratuitous transfers benefit both those who make the transfers and those who receive them; transfer taxes therefore impose burdens on both donors and recipients, in addition to distorting economic behavior. This article considers a potential reform of replacing federal transfer taxes with greater income taxes on the highest-income earners. Such a reform holds the prospect of raising additional federal tax revenue with improved efficiency and greater measured tax progressivity.
The Symptom Checklist-core depression (SCL-CD6) scale: Psychometric properties of a brief six item scale for the assessment of depression
Authors: Magnusson Hanson Linda L. , Westerlund Hugo , Leineweber Constanze , Rugulies Reiner , Osika Walter , Theorell Töres , Bech Per
Published: August 2013

Aims: Major depressive disorders are common, with substantial impact on individuals/society. Brief scales for depression severity, based on a small number of characteristics all of which are necessary for diagnosis, have been recommended in self-reported versions for clinical work or research when aiming to quickly and accurately measure depression. We have examined psychometric properties of a brief 6-item version of the Symptom Checklist (SCL), the Symptom Checklist core depression scale (SCL-CD6) and aimed to identify a cut-point for epidemiological research. Methods: The psychometric evaluation of the SCL-CD6 was mainly performed by a Mokken analysis of unidimensionality in a random sample of 1476 residents in the Stockholm County, aged 18–64 years. The standardization of SCL-CD6 was based on ROC analysis, using the Major Depression Inventory as index of validity. Predictive validity was subsequently assessed using register data on hospital admissions and purchases of prescribed medications linked to a sample of 5985 participants in the Swedish Longitudinal Occupational Survey of Health (SLOSH). Results: The SCL-CD6 obtained a coefficient of homogeneity of 0.70 by Mokken analysis, which indicates high unidimensionality and a meaningful dimensional measure of depression severity. By ROC we identified a score of 17 or higher (total range 0–24) as the best cut-point for major depression (sensitivity 0.68, specificity 0.98) which predicted subsequent purchases of antidepressants as well as hospitalisations with a depressive episode. Conclusions: The SCL-CD6 was found a valid depression scale with higher unidimensionality than longer epidemiological instruments and thus particularly suitable for assessment in larger population surveys.
The role of a clinical nurse consultant dementia specialist: A qualitative evaluation
Authors: Duane Fleur M , Goeman Dianne P , Beanland Chris J , Koch Susan H
Published: August 2013

Delay in diagnosis and difficulties in accessing appropriate health care services plague dementia care delivery in the community setting, potentiating the risk for misdiagnosis, inappropriate management, poor psychological adjustment and reduced coping capacity and ability to forward plan. We evaluated a clinical nurse consultant role with a speciality in dementia to provide person-centred pre-diagnosis support in the community. Clients, with a six-month history of cognitive and functional decline in the absence of delirium but no formal diagnosis of dementia, were recruited from a Home Care Nursing Service and an Aged Care Assessment Service located in the Western Suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The role of a clinical nurse consultant was highly regarded by clients and other health professionals. This paper discussing the CNC role and the outcomes of the role suggests it was successful in providing timely assistance and support for consumers and support for other health professionals.
Using photovoice with sex workers: The power of art, agency and resistance
Authors: Desyllas Moshoula Capous
Published: August 2013

Situated within an arts-based research framework, photovoice method was utilized with women working in diverse aspects of the sex industry. The purpose of this project was to understand sex workers' lived experiences through their own artistic self-representation. This supports the acknowledgement of individual strengths, skills, visions, and voice. Another goal was to provide opportunities for group dialogue, engagement in community education, and activism through art. The findings from this study have implications for furthering our understanding of the lives of sex workers. Specifically, attention is given to the role of intersectionality as informing the lived experiences of sex workers. Findings from this study also highlight sex workers' shared experiences of stigma and the use of photography as an act of resistance to this stigma. This project confirms how empowerment comes about through the arts. Using photovoice method with sex workers affirms agency, self-representation, voice, and choice in sex work.
Specific aspects of modern life for people with multiple sclerosis: considerations for the practitioner
Authors: Oreja-Guevara Celia , Wiendl Heinz , Kieseier Bernd C. , Airas Laura ,   for the NeuroNet Study Group
Published: August 2013

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, debilitating, neurodegenerative disease that has a high impact on patients’ quality of life. Individuals are often diagnosed in early adulthood and are faced with the difficulty of managing their lifestyle within the context of this chronic illness. Here we review factors that influence the disease course and the challenges that might be encountered when managing patients with MS.

The majority of diagnosed patients are women of childbearing age, making pregnancy-related issues a key concern. MS typically stabilizes during pregnancy and evidence suggests that the disease has no impact on the risk of complications or outcomes. However, the effect of disease-modifying therapies on outcomes is less clear, and discontinuation of treatment prior to pregnancy or when breastfeeding is recommended. Awareness of genetic risk factors is important for patients planning a family, as several genes increase the risk of MS.

Further aspects that require consideration include infections, vaccinations, environmental factors, surgery and the emergence of osteoporosis. Vaccinations are generally not a risk factor for MS and may be beneficial in terms of protection against infection and reducing the number of relapses. Environmental factors such as vitamin D deficiency, low exposure to sunlight, smoking and Epstein−Barr virus infection can all negatively influence the disease course. Furthermore, osteoporosis is generally higher in patients with MS than the general population, and the risk is increased by the environmental and genetic factors associated with the disease; bone mineral density should be assessed and smoking cessation and correction of serum vitamin D levels are recommended. Finally, as patients with MS are typically young, they are at low risk of surgery-related complications, although they should be carefully monitored postoperatively. Awareness of, and planning around, these factors may minimize the impact of the disease on patients’ lifestyle.
Vitamin D and glycemic control in diabetes mellitus type 2
Authors: Kostoglou-Athanassiou Ifigenia , Athanassiou Panagiotis , Gkountouvas Anastasios , Kaldrymides Philippos
Published: August 2013

Objectives:

The extraskeletal effects of vitamin D have attracted considerable interest. Vitamin D deficiency appears to be related to the development of diabetes mellitus type 2 and the metabolic syndrome. Vitamin D may affect glucose homeostasis, vitamin D levels having been found to be inversely related to glycosylated hemoglobin levels in gestational diabetes mellitus. In addition, vitamin D appears to protect from the development of gestational diabetes mellitus. The aim was to study levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] and the relationship between 25(OH)D3 levels and glycemic control in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2.

Methods:

Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and 25(OH)D3 levels were measured in a group of 120 diabetes mellitus type 2 patients. The same measurements were performed in a group of 120 control subjects of the same age and sex. 25(OH)D3 was measured by radioimmunoassay and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results:

25(OH)D3 levels were lower in the diabetes mellitus type 2 patients than in the control group, being 19.26 ± 0.95 ng/ml and 25.49 ± 1.02 ng/ml, in the patient and control groups, respectively ( p < 0.001, Student’s t-test). 25(OH)D3 levels were found to be inversely associated with HbA1c levels in the diabetic patients ( p = 0.008, r2 = 0.058, linear regression). 25(OH)D3 levels were found to be inversely associated with HbA1c when the patient and control groups were analysed together ( p < 0.001, r2 = 0.086).

Conclusions:

Vitamin D levels appeared to be lower in diabetes mellitus type 2 patients than in the control group, vitamin D levels being related to glycemic control in diabetes mellitus type 2. These findings may have therapeutic implications as cautious vitamin D supplementation may improve glycemic control in diabetes mellitus type 2.
An Examination of Counseling Professionals/Paraprofessionals Attitudes Toward Adolescent Sexual Offenders
Authors: Jones Edward C.
Published: August 2013

One hundred thirty-three counseling professionals/paraprofessionals were recruited from adolescent residential treatment programs located in Michigan. Participants were assessed using the Community Attitudes Toward Sex Offender Scale (CATSO). Of the participants, 32.3% ( n = 43) of the participants were female and 67.7% ( n = 90) were male. Years of experience working directly with adolescent sexual offenders of participants ranged from 0 to 18 years ( M = 2.48 years, SD = 3.48). The number of months participants received sexual offender training ranged from 0 to 60 ( M = 3.44, SD = 9.48). No statistical differences in attitudes were found between females and males toward adolescent sexual offenders. No statistically significant relationship was found between years of experience and the four factors on the CATSO survey (Social Isolation, Capacity to Change, Severity/Dangerousness, and Deviancy). A significant relationship was found between experience and the Deviancy factor. No statistically significant relationship was found between months of training and attitudes. Overall, attitudes toward adolescent sexual offenders were positive.
MDM2 phenotypic and genotypic profiling, respective to TP53 genetic status, in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients treated with rituximab-CHOP immunochemotherapy: a report from the International DLBCL Rituximab-CHOP Consortium Program
Authors: Xu-Monette Zijun Y. , Møller Michael B. , Tzankov Alexander , Montes-Moreno Santiago , Hu Wenwei , Manyam Ganiraju C. , Kristensen Louise , Fan Lei , Visco Carlo , Dybkær Karen , Chiu April , Tam Wayne , Zu Youli , Bhagat Govind , Richards Kristy L. , Hsi Eric D. , Choi William W. L. , van Krieken J. Han , Huang Qin , Huh Jooryung , Ai Weiyun , Ponzoni Maurilio , Ferreri Andrés J. M. , Wu Lin , Zhao Xiaoying , Bueso-Ramos Carlos E. , Wang Sa A. , Go Ronald S. , Li Yong , Winter Jane N. , Piris Miguel A. , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Young Ken H.
Published: August 2013

Key Points

Phenotypic and genotypic profiling of MDM2 in DLBCL. MDM2 as a negative regulator of p53 tumor suppressor function.
Hydroa vacciniforme-like lymphoma: a chronic EBV+ lymphoproliferative disorder with risk to develop a systemic lymphoma
Authors: Quintanilla-Martinez Leticia , Ridaura Cecilia , Nagl Florian , Sáez-de-Ocariz Marimar , Durán-McKinster Carola , Ruiz-Maldonado Ramon , Alderete Georgia , Grube Peter , Lome-Maldonado Carmen , Bonzheim Irina , Fend Falko
Published: August 2013

Key Points

HVLL is a chronic EBV+ lymphoproliferative disorder of childhood with risk to develop systemic lymphoma. The disease shows favorable response to conservative therapy despite the presence of a T- or NK-cell monoclonal proliferation.
The role of retinoic acid in hepatic lipid homeostasis defined by genomic binding and transcriptome profiling
Authors: He Yuqi , Gong Lei , Fang Yaping , Zhan Qi , Liu Hui-Xin , Lu Yanliu , Guo Grace L , Lehman-McKeeman Lois , Fang Jianwen , Wan Yu-Jui Yvonne
Published: August 2013

Background

The eyes and skin are obvious retinoid target organs. Vitamin A deficiency causes night blindness and retinoids are widely used to treat acne and psoriasis. However, more than 90% of total body retinol is stored in liver stellate cells. In addition, hepatocytes produce the largest amount of retinol binding protein and cellular retinoic acid binding protein to mobilize retinol from the hepatic storage pool and deliver retinol to its receptors, respectively. Furthermore, hepatocytes express the highest amount of retinoid x receptor alpha (RXRα) among all the cell types. Surprisingly, the function of endogenous retinoids in the liver has received very little attention.

Results

Based on the data generated from chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing, the global DNA binding of transcription factors including retinoid x receptor α (RXRα) along with its partners i.e. retinoic acid receptor α (RARα), pregnane x receptor (PXR), liver x receptor (LXR), farnesoid x receptor (FXR), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) has been established. Based on the binding, functional annotation illustrated the role of those receptors in regulating hepatic lipid homeostasis. To correlate the DNA binding data with gene expression data, the expression patterns of 576 genes that regulate lipid homeostasis were studied in wild type and liver RXRα-null mice treated with and without RA. The data showed that RA treatment and RXRα-deficiency had opposite effects in regulating lipid homeostasis. A subset of genes (114), which could clearly differentiate the effect of ligand treatment and receptor deficiency, were selected for further functional analysis. The expression data suggested that RA treatment could produce unsaturated fatty acids and induce triglyceride breakdown, bile acid secretion, lipolysis, and retinoids elimination. In contrast, RXRα deficiency might induce the synthesis of saturated fatty acids, triglyceride, cholesterol, bile acids, and retinoids. In addition, DNA binding data indicated extensive cross-talk among RARα, PXR, LXR, FXR, and PPARα in regulating those RA/RXRα-dependent gene expression levels. Moreover, RA reduced serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and bile acid levels in mice.

Conclusions

We have characterized the role of hepatic RA for the first time. Hepatic RA mediated through RXRα and its partners regulates lipid homeostasis.
Genes involved in thoracic exoskeleton formation during the pupal-to-adult molt in a social insect model, Apis mellifera
Authors: Soares Michelle Prioli Miranda , Barchuk Angel Roberto , Simões Ana Carolina Quirino , dos Santos Cristino Alexandre , de Paula Freitas Flávia Cristina , Canhos Luísa Lange , Bitondi Márcia Maria Gentile
Published: August 2013

Background

The insect exoskeleton provides shape, waterproofing, and locomotionviaattached somatic muscles. The exoskeleton is renewed during molting, a process regulated by ecdysteroid hormones. The holometabolous pupa transforms into an adult during the imaginal molt, when the epidermis synthe3sizes the definitive exoskeleton that then differentiates progressively. An important issue in insect development concerns how the exoskeletal regions are constructed to provide their morphological, physiological and mechanical functions. We used whole-genome oligonucleotide microarrays to screen for genes involved in exoskeletal formation in the honeybee thoracic dorsum. Our analysis included three sampling times during the pupal-to-adult molt, i.e., before, during and after the ecdysteroid-induced apolysis that triggers synthesis of the adult exoskeleton.

Results

Gene ontology annotation based on orthologous relationships withDrosophila melanogastergenes placed the honeybee differentially expressed genes (DEGs) into distinct categories of Biological Process and Molecular Function, depending on developmental time, revealing the functional elements required for adult exoskeleton formation. Of the 1,253 unique DEGs, 547 were upregulated in the thoracic dorsum after apolysis, suggesting induction by the ecdysteroid pulse. The upregulated gene set included 20 of the 47 cuticular protein (CP) genes that were previously identified in the honeybee genome, and three novel putative CP genes that do not belong to a known CP family.In situhybridization showed that two of the novel genes were abundantly expressed in the epidermis during adult exoskeleton formation, strongly implicating them as genuine CP genes. Conserved sequence motifs identified the CP genes as members of the CPR, Tweedle, Apidermin, CPF, CPLCP1 and Analogous-to-Peritrophins families. Furthermore, 28 of the 36 muscle-related DEGs were upregulated during thede novoformation of striated fibers attached to the exoskeleton. A search forcis-regulatory motifs in the 5′-untranslated region of the DEGs revealed potential binding sites for known transcription factors. Construction of a regulatory network showed that various upregulated CP- and muscle-related genes (15 and 21 genes, respectively) share common elements, suggesting co-regulation during thoracic exoskeleton formation.

Conclusions

These findings help reveal molecular aspects of rigid thoracic exoskeleton formation during the ecdysteroid-coordinated pupal-to-adult molt in the honeybee.
Genome-wide modeling of complex phenotypes in Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: De Supriyo , Zhang Yongqing , Wolkow Catherine A , Zou Sige , Goldberg Ilya , Becker Kevin G
Published: August 2013

Background

The genetic and molecular basis for many intermediate and end stage phenotypes in model systems such as C. elegans and D. melanogaster has long been known to involve pleiotropic effects and complex multigenic interactions. Gene sets are groups of genes that contribute to multiple biological or molecular phenomena. They have been used in the analysis of large molecular datasets such as microarray data, Next Generation sequencing, and other genomic datasets to reveal pleiotropic and multigenic contributions to phenotypic outcomes. Many model systems lack species specific organized phenotype based gene sets to enable high throughput analysis of large molecular datasets.

Results and discussion

Here, we describe two novel collections of gene sets in C. elegans and D. melanogaster that are based exclusively on genetically determined phenotypes and use a controlled phenotypic ontology. We use these collections to build genome-wide models of thousands of defined phenotypes in both model species. In addition, we demonstrate the utility of these gene sets in systems analysis and in analysis of gene expression-based molecular datasets and show how they are useful in analysis of genomic datasets connecting multigenic gene inputs to complex phenotypes.

Conclusions

Phenotypic based gene sets in both C. elegans and D. melanogaster are developed, characterized, and shown to be useful in the analysis of large scale species-specific genomic datasets. These phenotypic gene set collections will contribute to the understanding of complex phenotypic outcomes in these model systems.
The impact of breed and tissue compartment on the response of pig macrophages to lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Kapetanovic Ronan , Fairbairn Lynsey , Downing Alison , Beraldi Dario , Sester David P , Freeman Tom C , Tuggle Christopher K , Archibald Alan L , Hume David A
Published: August 2013

Background

The draft genome of the domestic pig (Sus scrofa) has recently been published permitting refined analysis of the transcriptome. Pig breeds have been reported to differ in their resistance to infectious disease. In this study we examine whether there are corresponding differences in gene expression in innate immune cells

Results

We demonstrate that macrophages can be harvested from three different compartments of the pig (lungs, blood and bone-marrow), cryopreserved and subsequently recovered and differentiated in CSF-1. We have performed surface marker analysis and gene expression profiling on macrophages from these compartments, comparing twenty-five animals from five different breeds and their response to lipopolysaccharide. The results provide a clear distinction between alveolar macrophages (AM) and monocyte-derived (MDM) and bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM). In particular, the lung macrophages express the growth factor, FLT1 and its ligand, VEGFA at high levels, suggesting a distinct pathway of growth regulation. Relatively few genes showed breed-specific differential expression, notably CXCR2 and CD302 in alveolar macrophages. In contrast, there was substantial inter-individual variation between pigs within breeds, mostly affecting genes annotated as being involved in immune responses.

Conclusions

Pig macrophages more closely resemble human, than mouse, in their set of macrophage-expressed and LPS-inducible genes. Future research will address whether inter-individual variation in macrophage gene expression is heritable, and might form the basis for selective breeding for disease resistance.
Endogenous retroviruses and multiple sclerosis–new pieces to the puzzle
Authors: Nissen Kari K , Laska Magdalena J , Hansen Bettina , Terkelsen Thorkild , Villesen Palle , Bahrami Shervin , Petersen Thor , Pedersen Finn S , Nexø Bjørn A
Published: August 2013

The possibility that retroviruses play a role in multiple sclerosis (MS) has long been considered; accumulating findings suggest this to be most likely in the form of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs). A genetic test series of fifty endogenous retroviral loci for association with MS in Danes showed SNP markers near a specific endogenous retroviral locus, HERV-Fc1 located on the X-chromosome, to be positive. Bout Onset MS was associated with the HERV-Fc1 locus, while a rarer form, Primary Progressive MS, was not. Moreover, HERV-Fc1 Gag RNA in plasma was increased 4-fold in patients with recent history of attacks, relative to patients in a stable state and to healthy controls.

Finally, genetic variations in restriction genes for retroviruses influence the risk of MS, providing further support for a role of retroviral elements in disease.

We speculate that endogenous retroviruses may activate the innate immune system in a variety of ways, involving the host proteins, TRIMs, TLRs, TREXs and STING. Observations in HIV-positive patients suggest that antiretroviral drugs can curb MS. Thus, these new findings regarding the etiology and pathogenesis of MS, suggest alternative ways to challenge autoimmune diseases.
EURO-WABB: an EU rare diseases registry for Wolfram syndrome, Alström syndrome and Bardet-Biedl syndrome
Authors: Farmer Amy , Aymé Ségolène , de Heredia Miguel Lopez , Maffei Pietro , McCafferty Susan , Młynarski Wojciech , Nunes Virginia , Parkinson Kay , Paquis-Flucklinger Véronique , Rohayem Julia , Sinnott Richard , Tillmann Vallo , Tranebjærg Lisbeth , Barrett Timothy G
Published: August 2013

Background

Wolfram, Alström and Bardet-Biedl (WABB) syndromes are rare diseases with overlapping features of multiple sensory and metabolic impairments, including diabetes mellitus, which have caused diagnostic confusion. There are as yet no specific treatments available, little or no access to well characterized cohorts of patients, and limited information on the natural history of the diseases. We aim to establish a Europe-wide registry for these diseases to inform patient care and research.

Methods

EURO-WABB is an international multicenter large-scale observational study capturing longitudinal clinical and outcome data for patients with WABB diagnoses. Three hundred participants will be recruited over 3 years from different sites throughout Europe. Comprehensive clinical, genetic and patient experience data will be collated into an anonymized disease registry. Data collection will be web-based, and forms part of the project’s Virtual Research and Information Environment (VRIE). Participants who haven’t undergone genetic diagnostic testing for their condition will be able to do so via the project.

Conclusions

The registry data will be used to increase the understanding of the natural history of WABB diseases, to serve as an evidence base for clinical management, and to aid the identification of opportunities for intervention to stop or delay the progress of the disease. The detailed clinical characterisation will allow inclusion of patients into studies of novel treatment interventions, including targeted interventions in small scale open label studies; and enrolment into multi-national clinical trials. The registry will also support wider access to genetic testing, and encourage international collaborations for patient benefit.
Ssanghwa-tang, an oriental herbal cocktail, exerts anti-melanogenic activity by suppression of the p38 MAPK and PKA signaling pathways in B16F10 cells
Authors: Kim Aeyung , Yim Nam-Hui , Im Minju , Jung Young Pil , Liang Chun , Cho Won-Kyung , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: August 2013

Background

Ssanghwa-tang (SHT) is a widely used medication for the treatment of fatigue, pain, inflammation, hypothermia, erectile dysfunction, cancer, and osteoporosis in Asia, however, role of SHT on the melanin synthesis has not been checked previously. Thus, the present study was designed to determine the effect of SHT on α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced melanogensis and its mechanisms of action in murine B16F10 melanoma cells.

Method

Cellular melanin content and tyrosinase activity in murine B16F10 melanoma cells were determined after α-MSH stimulation with or without pre-treatment of SHT at the concentration of 250 and 500 μg/ml. Expression level of tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TRP-1), TRP-2, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), and activation of c-AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), c-AMP-related element binding protein (CREB), and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were examined by Western blot analysis.

Results

SHT significantly inhibited α-MSH-induced melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity, and also decreased α-MSH-induced expression of MITF, tyrosinase, and TRP-1. In addition, SHT remarkably suppressed tyrosinase, CRE, and MITF luciferase reporter activity in a resting state as well as in α-MSH-stimulating condition. Phosphorylation of p38 MAPK by α-MSH stimulation was efficiently blocked by SHT pre-treatment. Moreover, SHT as an herbal cocktail showed synergistic anti-melanogenic effect compared with that of each single constituent herb.

Conclusion

SHT efficiently inhibited c-AMP-induced melanin synthesis in B16F10 cells via suppression of PKA and p38 MAPK signaling pathways and subsequently decreased the level of CREB phosphorylation, MITF, and melanogenic enzymes. These results indicate that SHT may be useful as herbal medicine for treating hyperpigmentation and cosmetics as a skin-whitening agent.