bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of glucose tolerance tests to detect the insulin sensitizing effects of a bout of continuous exercise
Authors: Ortega Juan Fernando , Hamouti Nassim , Fernández-Elías Valentín Emilio , Mora-Rodriguez Ricardo
Published: January 2014

The aim of the present study was to determine which of the available glucose tolerance tests (oral (OGTT) vs. intravenous (IVGTT)) could more readily detect the insulin sensitizing effects of a bout of continuous exercise. Ten healthy moderately fit young men (V̇O2peak of 45.4 ± 1.8 mL·kg−1·min−1; age 27.5 ± 2.7 yr) underwent 4 OGTT and 4 IVGTT on different days following a standardized dinner and overnight fast. One test was performed immediately after 55 min of cycle-ergometer exercise at 60% V̇O2peak. Insulin sensitivity index was determined during a 50 min IVGTT according to Tura (CISI) and from a 120 min OGTT using the Matsuda composite index (MISI). After exercise, MISI improved 29 ± 10% without reaching statistical significance (p = 0.182) due to its low reproducibility (coefficient of variation 16 ± 3%; intra-class reliability 0.846). However, CISI significantly improved (50 ± 4%; p < 0.001) after exercise showing better reproducibility (coefficient of variation 13 ± 4%; intra-class reliability 0.955). Power calculation revealed that 6 participants were required for detecting the effects of exercise on insulin sensitivity when using IVGTT, whereas 54 were needed when using OGTT. The superior response of CISI compared with MISI suggests the preferential use of IVGTT to assess the effects of exercise on insulin sensitivity when using a glucose tolerance test.
Economic impacts of climate change in the forest sector: a comparison of single-region and multiregional CGE modeling frameworks
Authors: Ochuodho Thomas O. , Lantz Van A.
Published: January 2014

Climate change impacts on forests are largely expected to intensify over the next few decades. Computable general equilibrium (CGE) modeling is increasingly becoming a popular tool for assessing these impacts. Previous analyses in this area have been based on either single-region or multiregional CGE model specifications, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. To date, however, there has been no systematic comparison of the potential differences in economic impact estimates between the two CGE model specifications. To examine the extent of these potential differences, we conducted a comparative economic impact analysis of climate change in the forest sector across Canadian provinces, the United States, and the rest of the world using dynamic, single-region and multiregional CGE models over the 2006–2051 period. Results revealed that, within each region, different model specifications produced unique economic impact estimates, differing by as much as 18% under each climate change scenario considered. Overall, a majority of Canadian regions recorded smaller (in absolute value terms) and more positive economic impacts using single-region models compared with the multiregional model. Differences in international trade specifications between models, together with unique climate change impact considerations across regions, played key roles in the findings. While few general conclusions emerge from this analysis, it is clear that CGE model specifications can have a significant effect on regional economic impact estimates of climate change in the forest sector. Thus, caution is advised when using the estimates of any one CGE model for policy purposes.
Decoupling litter respiration from whole-soil respiration along an elevation gradient in a Rocky Mountain mixed-conifer forest
Authors: Berryman Erin M. , Marshall John D. , Kavanagh Kathleen
Published: January 2014

Litter respiration (RL) represents a significant portion of whole-soil respiration (RS) in forests, yet climatic correlations with RLhave seldom been examined. Because RLis reduced at low humidities and RSis reduced at low temperatures, these components may show divergent trends with elevation in western North American forests. Using a litter-removal experiment along a forested 750 m elevation gradient in the Rocky Mountains of northern Idaho, USA, we measured RSon soils from which litter had been removed (RNL) and, by difference, RL. Mean RLrepresented 16% (SE = 2%) of mean RSfrom July through October of 2007 and 2008. RSwas highest at warmer times and sites, and was not suppressed by low soil moisture. In contrast, RLwas highest at cooler times, when humidity and gravimetric litter water content were highest. RLwas highest at mid-elevations, representing neither the warmest nor wettest sites. Sixty-three percent of variability in site RLwas explained by both mean annual temperature (MAT) and mean annual relative humidity (MARH), including a positive interaction effect between MAT and MARH. Our results imply that the equilibration of litter with atmospheric humidity is an important control over litter respiration rates.
Cyclic enterobacterial common antigens fromEscherichia coliO157 as microbe-associated molecular patterns
Authors: Paunova-Krasteva Tsvetelina S. , Pavlova Velichka A. , De Castro Cristina , Ivanova Radka M. , Molinaro Antonio , Nikolova Elena B. , Stoitsova Stoyanka R.
Published: January 2014

In a previous study, we described 2 forms of cyclic enterobacterial common antigen (ECACYC), a tetramer and a pentamer, from Escherichia coli O157. ECACYCis present in several representatives of the Enterobacteriaceae. To date, functional studies on ECACYCare sparse. Cyclic oligosaccharides in other bacteria, like the cyclic β-glucans in Rhizobiaceae, represent microbe-associated molecular patterns involved in host–bacteria interaction. This observation determined the aim of the present study: to test whether the tetrameric and pentameric ECACYCfrom E. coli O157 can be recognised by host humoral and cellular mechanisms. ELISA tests designed to compare the 2 ECACYCwith the O157 lipopolysaccharide showed that both ECACYCwere not recognised by polyclonal anti-O157 serum but were good ligands for mannan-binding lectin. The lectin had a higher affinity for the tetramer than the pentamer. ECACYCdeposited more C3b than did the lipopolysaccharide. To examine the interactions with human circulating neutrophils, the antigens were loaded onto fluorescent latex beads and applied in a phagocytosis experiment. Spheres coated with the 2 ECACYCoccasionally adhered to phagocyte surfaces but, unlike O157-loaded spheres, failed to induce free-radical release. The results show that the 2 ECACYCrepresent microbe-associated molecular patterns recognised by host humoral non-self-recognition mechanisms.
Extract fromAcanthopanax senticosusprevents LPS-induced monocytic cell adhesion via suppression of LFA-1 and Mac-1
Authors: Kim Hyun Jeong , McLean Danielle , Pyee Jaeho , Kim Jongmin , Park Heonyong
Published: January 2014

A crude extract from Acanthopanax senticosus (AS) has drawn increased attention because of its potentially beneficial activities, including anti-fatigue, anti-stress, anti-gastric-ulcer, and immunoenhancing effects. We previously reported that AS crude extract exerts anti-inflammatory activity through blockade of monocytic adhesion to endothelial cells. However, the underlying mechanisms remained unknown, and so this study was designed to investigate the pathways involved. It was confirmed that AS extract inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells, and we found that whole extract was superior to eleutheroside E, a principal functional component of AS. A series of PCR experiments revealed that AS extract inhibited LPS-induced expression of genes encoding lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) and macrophage-1 antigen (Mac-1) in THP-1 cells. Consistently, protein levels and cell surface expression of LFA-1 and Mac-1 were noticeably reduced upon treatment with AS extract. This inhibitory effect was mediated by the suppression of LPS-induced degradation of IκB-α, a known inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). In conclusion, AS extract exerts anti-inflammatory activity via the suppression of LFA-1 and Mac-1, lending itself as a potential therapeutic galenical for the prevention and treatment of various inflammatory diseases.
Wing wear, but not asymmetry in wear, affects load-lifting capability in bumble beesBombusimpatiens
Authors: Johnson Sarah A. , Cartar Ralph V.
Published: January 2014

Wing wear is widespread in flying insects, but its effects on flight are controversial. In this research, we examine the separate and combined effects of wing area and wing area asymmetry on maximum load-lifting capability in bumble bees Bombus impatiens Cresson, 1863. Individual bees with experimentally induced forewing wear (0%–24% forewing area loss, 0%–38% forewing area asymmetry) were harnessed with a string to which small bead groups were attached and tested in a flight chamber to measure the maximum weight that they could lift incrementally. Wing wear significantly decreased load-lifting ability: the higher the mean wing area loss, the less mass a bee could lift (2.66 mg load reduction per 1% forewing area loss, which represents ∼1.6% of mean body mass or ∼5.2% of expected mean nectar load). However, wing area asymmetry, both alone and in combination with area loss, had no detectable effect on maximum lift. The clear cost of wing wear for bumble bees is a linear reduction in weight-lifting capability through loss of wing area. This relatively strong diminution of load lifting by wing wear, observed over the range of wing area losses naturally accrued by wild bees, provides a potential mechanism for declining foraging ability and survivorship of worker bees with wing wear. What remains to be explained is the utter insensitivity of maximum load lifted to forewing asymmetry.
DETECTION OF COLLAPSED BUILDINGS DUE TO EARTHQUAKES USING A DIGITAL SURFACE MODEL CONSTRUCTED FROM AERIAL IMAGES
Authors: MARUYAMA YOSHIHISA , TASHIRO AKIRA , YAMAZAKI FUMIO
Published: January 2014

The buildings that collapsed during the 2007 Niigata Chuetsu-oki earthquake are detected based on aerial photogrammetry using digital aerial images. The digital surface models (DSMs) in the area where severe damage to buildings was observed after the earthquake are constructed using digital aerial camera images. Pre- and post-event aerial images are employed to obtain the DSMs in this study. The differences in building heights between the pre- and post-event models are considered to detect collapsed buildings and the accuracy of the method is discussed in this paper. The results indicate that the collapsed buildings can be detected and undamaged buildings can also be correctly recognized by the proposed method.
N* PHYSICS AT MAMI — RESULTS AND PERSPECTIVES
Authors: OSTRICK MICHAEL
Published: January 2014

New measurements of transverse target and beam-target asymmetries in pion photo-production were performed using the Crystal Ball at the Mainz Microtron MAMI. Preliminary results are discussed in the context of model-independent partial wave analyses for pseudo-scalar meson photo-production below Ecm = 2 GeV.
MEASUREMENT OF POLARIZATION OBSERVABLES IN NEUTRAL DOUBLE PION PHOTOPRODUCTION OFF THE PROTON WITH THE CBELSA/TAPS EXPERIMENT
Authors:   (for the CBELSA/TAPS collaboration), SEIFEN TOBIAS
Published: January 2014

The Crystal Barrel/TAPS experiment is ideally suited to measure neutral mesons decaying into photons due to its high detection efficiency for photons, good energy resolution, and the nearly complete solid angle coverage. In combination with a longitudinally or transversely polarized target and an energy tagged, linearly or circularly polarized photon beam the experiment allows the measurement of a large set of polarization observables. The presented preliminary results for polarization observables of neutral double pion production obtained with a transversely polarized target show significant deviations from current predictions of partial wave analyses. This clearly indicates that 2π0-photoproduction is not yet understood.
ANALYSIS OF $\bar{K}$- AND γ-INDUCED Ξ RESONANCE PRODUCTION PROCESSES
Authors: JACKSON B. , OH YONGSEOK , HABERZETTL H. , NAKAYAMA K.
Published: January 2014

In anticipation of the multi-strangeness physics program planned at major laboratories — such as J-PARC, JLab and SPring-8 — we investigate the Ξ resonance production off the nucleon in [Formula: see text]- and γ-induced reactions.
MEASUREMENT OF DIFFERENTIAL CROSS SECTIONS OF p(e, e′π+)n FOR HIGH-LYING RESONANCES AT Q2 < 5 GeV2
Authors:   (for the CLAS Collaboration), PARK KIJUN
Published: January 2014

The exclusive electroproduction process ep → e′nπ+ was measured in the range of the invariant mass for nπ+ system 1.6 GeV ≤ W ≤ 2.0 GeV, and the photon virtuality 1.8 GeV2 ≤ Q2 ≤ 4.0 GeV2 using CLAS. For the first time, these kinematics are probed in exclusive π+ production from the protons with nearly full coverage in the azimuthal and polar angles of the nπ+ center-of-mass system. In this experiment, approximately 39,000 differential cross-section data points were measured. In this conference proceeding, preliminary results of our latest analysis work are presented on differential cross sections and structure functions as well as Legendre Moments.
POLARIZATION OBSERVABLES FROM THE PHOTOPRODUCTION OF ω-MESONS USING LINEARLY POLARIZED PHOTONS
Authors:   (for the CLAS collaboration), MARTINEZ DANNY , COLE PHILIP L.
Published: January 2014

We report on the extraction of Polarization Observables Spin Density Matrix Elements (SDMEs), and Beam Asymmetry Σ for ω meson photoproduction using a beam of linearly polarized photons in the photon energy region of Eγ = 1.3 to 1.7 GeV, by means of the angular distributions of the daughter pions from ω decay. These preliminary results are from the g8b dataset, which were collected with the CLAS detector in Hall B of Jefferson Lab.
STUDIES ON A COMPLETE EXPERIMENT FOR SINGLE PSEUDOSCALAR MESON PHOTOPRODUCTION
Authors:   (for the CB-ELSA/TAPS collaboration), WUNDERLICH YANNICK
Published: January 2014

The complete experiment problem for photoproduction of single pseudoscalar mesons is reviewed briefly. If this problem is investigated in the context of a truncated partial wave analysis, the chance emerges to obtain a unique multipole solution measuring less polarization observables than demanded by the classical solution of the problem that is formulated in terms of spin amplitudes.
The Changing Public Image of Smoking in the United States: 1964–2014
Authors: Cummings K. Michael , Proctor Robert N.
Published: January 2014

Tobacco use behaviors in the U.S. have changed significantly over the past century. After a steep increase in cigarette use rates over the first half of the 20th century, adult smoking prevalence rates started declining from their peak reached in 1964. Improved understanding of the health risks of smoking has been aided by the U.S. Surgeon General's Reports, issued on a nearly annual basis starting in 1964. Among the many forces driving down smoking prevalence were the recognition of tobacco use as an addiction and cause of cancer, along with concerns about the ill effects of breathing secondhand smoke. These factors contributed to the declining social acceptance of smoking, especially with the advent of legal restrictions on smoking in public spaces, mass media counter-marketing campaigns, and higher taxes on cigarettes. This article reviews some of the forces that have helped change the public image of smoking, focusing on the 50 years since the 1964 Surgeon General's Report on smoking and health. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(1); 32–36. ©2014 AACR.
Walnuts (Seeds of Juglandis sinensis L.) Protect Human Epidermal Keratinocytes against UVB-Induced Mitochondria-Mediated Apoptosis through Upregulation of ROS Elimination Pathways
Authors: Park G. , Kim H.G. , Hong S.-P. , Kim S.Y. , Oh M.S.
Published: January 2014

Purpose: Ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight is an important environmental factor causing hazardous health effects, including various skin disorders. UV irradiation downregulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) elimination pathways, thereby promoting the production of ROS, which are implicated in mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Walnuts, the seeds of Juglandissinensis L., are a highly nutritious food and have been shown to have a number of pharmacological activities. To our knowledge, no study on the protective effects of walnuts on human epidermal keratinocytes has been reported previously. Here, we investigated the protective effects of walnuts against UVB (50 mJ/cm2) -induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Procedures and Results: Walnuts significantly and dose-dependently reduced UVB-induced apoptotic toxicity by lactate dehydrogenase assay kit. Walnuts decreased mitochondrial dysfunction, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X (Bax) protein levels, and cytochrome c release from mitochondria, while increasing Bcl-2 protein levels using immunofluorescence, Western blot, or kit analysis. Moreover, walnuts inhibited caspase-3 activity, indicating an inhibition of the apoptotic cascade, and induced the expression of heme oxygenase and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase via NF-E2-related factor-2 activation using immunofluorescence or Western blot analysis. Conclusion: Together, these results demonstrate that walnuts can protect human epidermal keratinocytes against UVB-induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis by regulating ROS elimination pathways.
Using Climate Divisions to Analyze Variations and Trends in Alaska Temperature and Precipitation
Authors: Bieniek Peter A. , Walsh John E. , Thoman Richard L. , Bhatt Uma S.
Published: January 2014

By extending the record of Alaskan divisional temperature and precipitation back in time, regional variations and trends of temperature and precipitation over 1920–2012 are documented. The use of the divisional framework highlights the greater spatial coherence of temperature variations relative to precipitation variations.

The divisional time series of temperature are characterized by large interannual variability superimposed upon low-frequency variability, as well as by an underlying trend. Low-frequency variability corresponding to the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) includes Alaska’s generally warm period of the 1920s and 1930s, a cold period from the late 1940s through the mid-1970s, a warm period from the late 1970s through the early 2000s, and a cooler period in the most recent decade. An exception to the cooling of the past decade is the North Slope climate division, which has continued to warm. There has been a gradual upward trend of Alaskan temperatures relative to the PDO since 1920, resulting in a statewide average warming of about 1°C.

In contrast to temperature, variations of precipitation are less consistent across climate divisions and have much less multidecadal character. Thirty-year trends of both variables are highly sensitive to the choice of the subperiod within the overall 93-yr period. The trends also vary seasonally, with winter and spring contributing the most to the annual trends.
The Interpretation and Use of Biases in Decadal Climate Predictions
Authors: Hawkins Ed , Dong Buwen , Robson Jon , Sutton Rowan , Smith Doug
Published: January 2014

Decadal climate predictions exhibit large biases, which are often subtracted and forgotten. However, understanding the causes of bias is essential to guide efforts to improve prediction systems, and may offer additional benefits. Here the origins of biases in decadal predictions are investigated, including whether analysis of these biases might provide useful information. The focus is especially on the lead-time-dependent bias tendency. A “toy” model of a prediction system is initially developed and used to show that there are several distinct contributions to bias tendency. Contributions from sampling of internal variability and a start-time-dependent forcing bias can be estimated and removed to obtain a much improved estimate of the true bias tendency, which can provide information about errors in the underlying model and/or errors in the specification of forcings. It is argued that the true bias tendency, not the total bias tendency, should be used to adjust decadal forecasts.

The methods developed are applied to decadal hindcasts of global mean temperature made using the Hadley Centre Coupled Model, version 3 (HadCM3), climate model, and it is found that this model exhibits a small positive bias tendency in the ensemble mean. When considering different model versions, it is shown that the true bias tendency is very highly correlated with both the transient climate response (TCR) and non–greenhouse gas forcing trends, and can therefore be used to obtain observationally constrained estimates of these relevant physical quantities.
Quantifying Wind Turbine Wake Characteristics from Scanning Remote Sensor Data
Authors: Aitken Matthew L. , Banta Robert M. , Pichugina Yelena L. , Lundquist Julie K.
Published: January 2014

Because of the dense arrays at most wind farms, the region of disturbed flow downstream of an individual turbine leads to reduced power production and increased structural loading for its leeward counterparts. Currently, wind farm wake modeling, and hence turbine layout optimization, suffers from an unacceptable degree of uncertainty, largely because of a lack of adequate experimental data for model validation. Accordingly, nearly 100 h of wake measurements were collected with long-range Doppler lidar at the National Wind Technology Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in the Turbine Wake and Inflow Characterization Study (TWICS). This study presents quantitative procedures for determining critical parameters from this extensive dataset—such as the velocity deficit, the size of the wake boundary, and the location of the wake centerline—and categorizes the results by ambient wind speed, turbulence, and atmospheric stability. Despite specific reference to lidar, the methodology is general and could be applied to extract wake characteristics from other remote sensor datasets, as well as computational simulation output.

The observations indicate an initial velocity deficit of 50%−60% immediately behind the turbine, which gradually declines to 15%−25% at a downwind distance x of 6.5 rotor diameters (D). The wake expands with downstream distance, albeit less so in the vertical direction due to the presence of the ground: initially the same size as the rotor, the extent of the wake grows to 2.7D (1.2D) in the horizontal (vertical) at x = 6.5D. Moreover, the vertical location of the wake center shifts upward with downstream distance because of the tilt of the rotor.
Étude du lien entre I'intention de recommander une entreprise et la valeur à vie de ses clients
Authors: Schmitt Philipp , Meyer Steffen , Skiera Bernd
Published: January 2014

Le concept de Net Promoter Score (NPS), largement répandu dans la pratique, suppose qu'il existe un lien positif et non linéaire entre l'intention de recommander une entreprise (bouche-à-oreille positif) et la valeur à vie de ses clients (Customer Lifetime Value). Cette affirmation centrale pour la gestion d'un portefeuille client n'a cependant pas encore été vérifiée empiriquement. La présente étude se propose d'analyser, à l'aide de données financières, le lien entre l'intention d'un client de recommander une entreprise et sa valeur à vie. Elle démontre que l'intention de recommander une entreprise n'a pas d'influence significative sur la valeur à vie de ses clients. Si l'intention de recommander une entreprise augmente la marge sur coût variable, elle n'améliore pas pour autant la fidélité des clients. En revanche, la satisfaction a une influence significative sur la valeur à vie des clients. Le lien non linéaire escompté entre l'intention de recommander (ou encore la satisfaction) et la valeur à vie des clients ne peut pa être confirmé. En raison de ces résultats, l'importance du concept de NPS pour la gestion de la clientèle ne peut pas être attestée.
Introduction to the special issue on joint modelling techniques
Authors: Rizopoulos Dimitris , Lesaffre Emmanuel
Published: January 2014

Joint modelling techniques have seen great advances in the recent years, with several types of joint models having been developed in literature that can handle a wide range of applications. This special issue of Statistical Methods in Medical Research presents some recent developments from this field. This introductory article contains some background material and highlights the contents of the contributions.
The Therapeutic Effect of Cell Transplantation Versus Noncellular Biomaterial Implantation on Cardiac Structure and Function Following Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Dai Wangde , Kay Gregory L. , Kloner Robert A.
Published: January 2014

Although numerous studies demonstrated that localized delivery of either cells or biomaterials improved postinfarction cardiac function, the underlying mechanisms for this effect remain unclear. We performed a comparison of the effects of fetal, neonatal, and human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiac cell as well as mesenchymal stem cell transplantation versus biomaterial (collagen/extracellular matrix) implantation therapy in rat myocardial infarction model in our laboratory, specifically comparing their effects on infarct wall thickness, neovascularization, infarct wall motion, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Both cell and biomaterial treatment had similar beneficial effects on cardiac structure (increasing infarct wall thickness and preventing infarct expansion) and function (preventing paradoxical LV systolic bulging and improving LVEF). In this review, we also discussed the underlying mechanisms of cell and biomaterial therapies, their advantages and disadvantages, and future research directions in the field of regenerative cardiology.
Introduction
Authors: Teurlings Jan , Stauff Markus
Published: January 2014

Besides giving an overview on the individual contributions, this introduction to the special issue on transparency delineates a conceptual context for a critical analysis of the contemporary discourse on transparency and the media mechanisms related to it. It focuses on three ambivalences inherent to transparency: (a) The Enlightenment and modernity promise transparency and at the same time produce a structural complexity undermining all simple endeavors to make things visible. (b) Transparency, therefore, is never given but is based on artificial representational and mediatic strategies; the processes of mediation, however, applied to produce and display transparency, attract suspicion for being selective and manipulative. (c) Transparency is often equated with the possibility of a critical public while the practice of critique (according to scholars as different as Latour, Serres, Rancière, and Boltanski) has become toothless in its redundant claim to disclose what other people do not see. Instead of just ridiculing the notion of transparency, we argue in conclusion that any call for transparency should always be accompanied with a careful examination and possible contention of why to disclose this (and not something else) and why with these tools (and not others).
Fictional Names Masquerading as Literary-Historical Monikers: Onomastic Simulacra in A. S. Byatt’s Possession
Authors: Dodge Robbins Dorothy
Published: January 2014

AbstractJean Baudrillard’s theory on the nature of simulation proposes that a shift from reality to representation progresses until the artificial surpasses the authentic. Phase three simulation occurs when distinctions between re­presentation and reality virtually disappear. In Possession, A. S. Byatt erodes boundaries between fictional representation and literary-historical reality to the extent that stage three simulation is achieved in her novel. Most strikingly, this phenomenon occurs through onomastic imitations as the created names of her fictional poets and faux scholars appear as real to the reader as the actual names of literary-historical personages.
A Note on the Brand Names for “Bath Salts”
Authors: Nuessel Frank
Published: January 2014

AbstractThis essay discusses a relatively recent phenomenon, namely, the sale and use of a synthetic chemical product known generically as “bath salts.” It then defines this term. Next, it discusses selectively the scientific literature on this product. Finally, it interprets the significance the brand names used to refer to the product and their referents within an onomastic and semiotic framework.
Reading and Righting the Names at a Convocation Ceremony: Influences of Linguistic Ideologies on Name Usage in an Institutional Interaction
Authors: Pennesi Karen
Published: January 2014

AbstractAt a Canadian university with a diverse population, orators at convocation ceremonies follow a protocol to facilitate the correct pronunciation of names. I describe the protocol and analyze one name-announcement segment, incorporating data from interviews with faculty and students. I argue that linguistic ideologies influence and reflect the way names are used in institutional interactions. In an institutional discourse of multiculturalism, names are seen as symbols of persons, and efforts to say names correctly are demonstrations of respect. This can be undermined by orators’ practices, which focus on names as words and mark some non-English names as “difficult,” such as repeated verification and halting pronunciation. For students with these names, this may contribute to negative feelings about being treated as outsiders in the dominant society. Attention to linguistic ideologies reveals that the university’s protocol is as much a mechanism for reducing uncertainty among orators as for treating students respectfully.
Fabrication of Cu rich bulk metallic glass composites via solidification method
Authors: Wu J. , Pan Y. , Zhang L. , Pi J.
Published: January 2014

Cu based bulk metallic glasses and composites with tiny crystalline phases embedded in metallic glass matrix have been successfully fabricated by solidification technique in the present work. The formation of crystalline phases and structure inhomogeneity in bulk metallic glasses was characterised. Al is used as the minor alloying element to partly substitute Cu element in 61Cu–34Zr–5Ti. The results show that quarternary 60Cu–34Zr–5Ti–1Al alloy exhibits monoamorphous feature, and 56Cu–34Zr–5Ti–5Al alloy has a few crystalline peaks superimposed on a broad diffraction peak, suggesting that a composite structure forms in certain solidification conditions. To further identify the microstructure of the as cast rod, all samples were characterised by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Small size phases are found in 2 mm diameter 56Cu–34Zr–5Ti–5Al rod, which has larger plastic deformation. The composition of those crystalline phases is also investigated. All results indicate that the presence of certain phases in metallic matrix benefits the mechanical properties of the as cast bulk metallic glasses.
Acute kidney injury due to anti-tuberculosis drugs: a five-year experience in an aging population
Authors: Chang Chia-Hao , Chen Yen-Fu , Wu Vin-Cent , Shu Chin-Chung , Lee Chih-Hsin , Wang Jann-Yuan , Lee Li-Na , Yu Chong-Jen
Published: January 2014

Background

Patients on anti-tuberculosis treatment may develop acute kidney injury (AKI), but little is known about the renal outcome and prognostic factors, especially in an aging population. This study aimed to calculate the incidence of AKI due to anti-TB drugs and analyze the outcomes and predictors of renal recovery.

Methods

From 2006 to 2010, patients on anti-TB treatment were identified and their medical records reviewed. Acute kidney injury was defined according to the criteria established by the AKI Network, while renal recovery was defined as a return of serum creatinine to baseline. Predictors of renal recovery were identified by Cox regression analysis.

Results

Ninety-nine out of 1394 (7.1%) patients on anti-TB treatment had AKI. Their median age was 68 years and there was male predominance. Sixty (61%) developed AKI within two months of anti-TB treatment, including 11 (11%) with a prior history of rifampin exposure. Thirty (30%) had co-morbid chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease. The median time of renal recovery was 39.6 days (range, 1–180 days). Factors predicting renal recovery were the presence of fever, rash, and gastro-intestinal disturbance at the onset of AKI. Sixty-two of the 71 (87%) patients who recovered from AKI had successful re-introduction or continuation of rifampin.

Conclusions

Renal function impairment is not a rare complication during anti-TB treatment in an elderly population. The presence of fever and rash may be associated with renal recovery. Rifampin can still be used in most patients who recover from AKI.
Enhanced cytotoxic effect of radiation and temozolomide in malignant glioma cells: targeting PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling, HSP90 and histone deacetylases
Authors: Choi Eun Jung , Cho Bong Jun , Lee David J , Hwang Yeo Hyeon , Chun Sun Ha , Kim Hans H , Kim In Ah
Published: January 2014

Background

Despite aggressive treatment with radiation therapy and concurrent adjuvant temozolomide (TMZ), glioblastoma multiform (GBM) still has a dismal prognosis. We aimed to identify strategies to improve the therapeutic outcome of combined radiotherapy and TMZ in GBM by targeting pro-survival signaling from the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).

Methods

Glioma cell lines U251, T98G were used. Colony formation, DNA damage repair, mode of cell death, invasion, migration and vasculogenic mimicry as well as protein expression were determined.

Results

U251 cells showing a low level of methyl guanine transferase (MGMT) were highly responsive to the radiosensitizing effect of TMZ compared to T98G cells having a high level of MGMT. Treatment with a dual inhibitor of Class I PI3K/mTOR, PI103; a HSP90 inhibitor, 17-DMAG; or a HDAC inhibitor, LBH589, further increased the cytotoxic effect of radiation therapy plus TMZ in U251 cells than in T98G cells. However, treatment with a mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin, did not discernibly potentiate the radiosensitizing effect of TMZ in either cell line. The mechanism of enhanced radiosensitizing effects of TMZ was multifactorial, involving impaired DNA damage repair, induction of autophagy or apoptosis, and reversion of EMT (epithelial-mesenchymal transition).

Conclusions

Our results suggest possible strategies for counteracting the pro-survival signaling from EGFR to improve the therapeutic outcome of combined radiotherapy and TMZ for high-grade gliomas.
Social, behavioral, and sleep characteristics associated with depression symptoms among undergraduate students at a women’s college: a cross-sectional depression survey, 2012
Authors: Wilson Katherine T , Bohnert Ashley E , Ambrose Alex , Davis Destiny Y , Jones Dina M , Magee Matthew J
Published: January 2014

Background

The association between student characteristics and depression among students attending women’s colleges (single-sex institutions of higher education that exclude or limit males from admission) is poorly understood. Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of depression and determine behavioral and social characteristics associated with depression among students attending a women’s college.

Methods

We administered a cross-sectional Internet-based survey between April and May 2012 to students (n = 277) enrolled at a private women’s college in the southeastern US. Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21) instruments measured self-reported depression. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression methods were used to estimate adjusted associations.

Results

Prevalence of depression measured by CES-D and DASS-21 instruments was 26.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 20.8-32.3%) and 26.0% (95% CI 20.4-32.3%), respectively. After adjusting for confounders, absence of strong social support (prevalence odds ratio [OR] = 4.3, 95% CI 1.4-13.7), history of mental health disorder (OR = 4.8 95% CI 1.9-12.4), and poor sleep hygiene (OR = 2.8, 95% CI 1.3-5.8) were associated with depression.

Conclusions

This cross-sectional survey identified absence of strong social support, history of mental health disorder, and poor sleep hygiene as potential predictors of depression among students attending a women’s college. Further investigation of these factors may inform depression interventions for students attending women’s colleges and other undergraduate student populations.
Preconditioning somatothermal stimulation on Qimen (LR14) reduces hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: Hsieh Cheng-Chu , Hsieh Shu-Chen , Chiu Jen-Hwey , Wu Ying-Ling
Published: January 2014

Background

In human beings or animals, ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of the liver may occur in many clinical conditions, such as circulating shock, liver transplantation and surgery and several other pathological conditions. I/R injury has a complex pathophysiology resulting from a number of contributing factors. Therefore, it is difficult to achieve effective treatment or protection by individually targeting the mediators. This study aimed at studying the effects of local somatothermal stimulation preconditioning on the right Qimen (LR14) on hepatic I/R injury in rats.

Methods

Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups. The rats were preconditioned with thermal tolerance study, which included one dose of local somatothermal stimulation (LSTS) on right Qimen (LR14) at an interval of 12 h, followed by hepatic ischemia for 60 min and then reperfusion for 60 min. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) have been used to assess the liver functions, and liver tissues were taken for the measurements such as malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxidase dismutase (SOD), and myeloperoxidase (MPO).

Results

The results show that the plasma ALT and AST activities were higher in the I/R group than in the control group. In addition, the plasma ALT and AST activities decreased in the groups that received LSTS. The hepatic SOD levels reduced significantly by I/R injury. Moreover, the hepatic MPO activity significantly increased by I/R injury while it decreased in the groups given LSTS.

Conclusions

Our findings show that LSTS provides a protective effects on the liver from the I/R injury. Therefore, LSTS might offer an easy and inexpensive intervention for patients who have suffered from I/R of the liver especially in the process of hepatotomy and hepatic transplantation.
Structural and optical characterizations of InPBi thin films grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Gu Yi , Wang Kai , Zhou Haifei , Li Yaoyao , Cao Chunfang , Zhang Liyao , Zhang Yonggang , Gong Qian , Wang Shumin
Published: January 2014

InPBi thin films have been grown on InP by gas source molecular beam epitaxy. A maximum Bi composition of 2.4% is determined by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. X-ray diffraction measurements show good structural quality for Bi composition up to 1.4% and a partially relaxed structure for higher Bi contents. The bandgap was measured by optical absorption, and the bandgap reduction caused by the Bi incorporation was estimated to be about 56 meV/Bi%. Strong and broad photoluminescence signals were observed at room temperature for samples with x
Bi < 2.4%. The PL peak position varies from 1.4 to 1.9 μm, far below the measured InPBi bandgap.
Graphene’s cousin: the present and future of graphane
Authors: Zhou Chao , Chen Sihao , Lou Jianzhong , Wang Jihu , Yang Qiujie , Liu Chuanrong , Huang Dapeng , Zhu Tonghe
Published: January 2014

The so-called graphane is a fully hydrogenated form of graphene. Because it is fully hydrogenated, graphane is expected to have a wide bandgap and is theoretically an electrical insulator. The transition from graphene to graphane is that of an electrical conductor, to a semiconductor, and ultimately to an electrical insulator. This unique characteristic of graphane has recently gained both academic and industrial interest. Towards the end of developing novel applications of this important class of nanoscale material, computational modeling work has been carried out by a number of theoreticians to predict the structures and electronic properties of graphane. At the same time, experimental evidence has emerged to support the proposed structure of graphane. This review article covers the important aspects of graphane including its theoretically predicted structures, properties, fabrication methods, as well as its potential applications.
Hypersensitivity to oxaliplatin: clinical features and risk factors
Authors: Parel Marie , Ranchon Florence , Nosbaum Audrey , You Benoit , Vantard Nicolas , Schwiertz Vérane , Gourc Chloé , Gauthier Noémie , Guedat Marie-Gabrielle , He Sophie , Kiouris Eléna , Alloux Céline , Vial Thierry , Trillet-Lenoir Véronique , Freyer Gilles , Berard Frédéric , Rioufol Catherine
Published: January 2014

Background

Oxaliplatin-based regimens induce a potential risk of hypersensitivity reaction (HSR), with incidence varying from 10% to 25% and lack of clearly identified risk factors. The present study aimed to assess incidence and risk factors in HSR.

Methods

All patients treated with oxaliplatin in the Medical Oncology Department of the Lyon Sud University Hospital (Hospices Civils de Lyon, France) from October 2004 to January 2011 were enrolled. Incidence and severity of HSR were analyzed retrospectively and the potential clinicopathological covariates were tested on univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

A total of 1,221 doses of oxaliplatin were administered for 191 patients, 8.9% of whom experienced an HSR. Seventeen HSRs were observed, with 1.6% grade 3 and no grade 4 events. The first reaction appeared after a median of 3 oxaliplatin infusions. Using univariate analysis, HSR was associated with younger age (mean age, 56.2 years; p = 0.04), female gender (p = 0.01) and prior exposure to platinum salts (p = 0.02). No increased risk was associated with mean dose or with presence of atopic background. Multivariate analysis confirmed that women were at higher risk of oxaliplatin HSR than men (p < 0.05). Reintroduction of oxaliplatin was effective in 64.7% of hypersensitive patients using an appropriate premedication strategy. Patients who experienced a grade 3 HSR were not rechallenged.

Conclusion

The risk of developing oxaliplatin HSR should not be underestimated (8.9% of patients). The medical team’s vigilance should be increased with women, younger patients and patients with prior exposure to platinum salts.
Changes of direction during high-intensity intermittent runs: neuromuscular and metabolic responses
Authors: Hader Karim , Mendez-Villanueva Alberto , Ahmaidi Said , Williams Ben K , Buchheit Martin
Published: January 2014

Background

The ability to sustain brief high-intensity intermittent efforts (HIE) is meant to be a major attribute for performance in team sports. Adding changes of direction to HIE is believed to increase the specificity of training drills with respect to game demands. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of 90°-changes of direction (COD) during HIE on metabolic and neuromuscular responses.

Methods

Eleven male, team sport players (30.5 ± 3.6 y) performed randomly HIE without (straight-line, 2×[10× 22 m]) or with (2×[10× ~16.5 m]) two 90°-COD. To account for the time lost while changing direction, the distance for COD runs during HIE was individually adjusted using the ratio between straight-line and COD sprints. Players also performed 2 countermovement (CMJ) and 2 drop (DJ) jumps, during and post HIE. Pulmonary oxygen uptake (VO2), quadriceps and hamstring oxygenation, blood lactate concentration (Δ[La]b), electromyography amplitude (RMS) of eight lower limb muscles and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured for each condition.

Results

During HIE, CODs had no substantial effects on changes inVO2, oxygenation, CMJ and DJ performance and RPE (all differences in the changes rated as unclear). Conversely, compared with straight-line runs, COD-runs were associated with a possibly higher Δ[La]b(+9.7 ± 10.4%, with chances for greater/similar/lower values of 57/42/0%) and either a lower (i.e., −11.9 ± 14.6%, 2/13/85 for semitendinosus and −8.5 ± 9.3%, 1/21/78 for lateral gastrocnemius) or equivalent decrease in electromyography amplitude.

Conclusion

Adding two 90°-CODs on adjusted distance during two sets of HIE is likely to elicit equivalent decreases in CMJ and DJ height, and similar cardiorespiratory and perceptual responses, despite a lower average running speed. A fatigue-induced modification in lower limb control observed with CODs may have elicited a selective reduction of electromyography activity in hamstring muscles and may induce, in turn, a potential mechanical loss of knee stability. Therefore, changing direction during HIE, with adjusted COD running distances, might be an effective training practice 1) to manipulate some components of the acute physiological load of HIE, 2) to promote long-term COD-specific neuromuscular adaptations aimed at improving performance and knee joint stability.
Prospective evaluation of fluorescence-guided cystoscopy to detect bladder cancer in a high-risk population: results from the UroScreen-Study
Authors: Horstmann Marcus , Banek Severine , Gakis Georgios , Todenhöfer Tilman , Aufderklamm Stefan , Hennenlotter Joerg , Stenzl Arnulf , Schwentner Christian ,   the UroScreen study group
Published: January 2014

Objective

To prospectively evaluate the role of fluorescence-guided cystoscopy in a high-risk bladder cancer population undergoing screening based on a multi-marker panel of urine-tests (UroScreen-study).

Patients and methods

UroScreen was conducted as a validation study for tumor markers within the frame of a health surveillance program of workers with occupational exposure to aromatic amines. Voluntary annual screens were done in 1,609 men. Cytology, quantitative NMP22® assay, and UroVysion (FISH) were applied to 7091 urine samples. Subjects with at least one positive urine-based tumor marker and/or persisting microscopic hematuria were offered fluorescence-guided (PDD) instead of white light cystoscopy. In case of suspicious findings histopathological evaluation by transurethral biopsy was performed. Data were statistically summarized and compared to tumors found by the standard algorithm of the screening study.

Results

Twenty-two subjects with a mean age of 58 years (39–72) underwent PDD cystoscopy. Of those 3 had positive NMP22 tests, 14 positive FISH tests and 9 suspicious cytologies. Two had persisting microscopic hematuria only. PDD cystoscopy revealed enhanced unifocal fluorescence in 14. All had subsequent transurethral biopsy or resection. In total, 1 urothelial carcinoma (pTaG1, low grade) was diagnosed. In the other participants urothelial cancer of the bladder was ruled out. Chronic cystitis was revealed in 8 of 14 biopsies. No higher detection rate was found using PDD than with the standard algorithm of the UroScreen study in which 17 tumors were detected by white light cystoscopy.

Conclusion

The use of PDD does not lead to a higher cancer detection rate in a high-risk screening population. Larger sample sizes may be needed to ultimately asses the value of PDD for bladder cancer screening.