bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motor adaptation and generalization of reaching movements using motor primitives based on spatial coordinates
Authors: Tanaka Hirokazu , Sejnowski Terrence J.
Published: November 2014

The brain processes sensory and motor information in a wide range of coordinate systems, ranging from retinal coordinates in vision to body-centered coordinates in areas that control musculature. Here we focus on the coordinate system used in the motor cortex to guide actions and examine physiological and psychophysical evidence for an allocentric reference frame based on spatial coordinates. When the equations of motion governing reaching dynamics are expressed as spatial vectors, each term is a vector cross product between a limb-segment position and a velocity or acceleration. We extend this computational framework to motor adaptation, in which the cross-product terms form adaptive bases for canceling imposed perturbations. Coefficients of the velocity- and acceleration-dependent cross products are assumed to undergo plastic changes to compensate the force-field or visuomotor perturbations. Consistent with experimental findings, each of the cross products had a distinct reference frame, which predicted how an acquired remapping generalized to untrained location in the workspace. In response to force field or visual rotation, mainly the coefficients of the velocity- or acceleration-dependent cross products adapted, leading to transfer in an intrinsic or extrinsic reference frame, respectively. The model further predicted that remapping of visuomotor rotation should under- or overgeneralize in a distal or proximal workspace. The cross-product bases can explain the distinct patterns of generalization in visuomotor and force-field adaptation in a unified way, showing that kinematic and dynamic motor adaptation need not arise through separate neural substrates.
Effect of sensory experience on motor learning strategy
Authors: Zhou Shou-Han , Oetomo Denny , Tan Ying , Mareels Iven , Burdet Etienne
Published: November 2014

It is well known that the central nervous system automatically reduces a mismatch in the visuomotor coordination. Can the underlying learning strategy be modified by environmental factors or a subject's learning experiences? To elucidate this matter, two groups of subjects learned to execute reaching arm movements in environments with task-irrelevant visual cues. However, one group had previous experience of learning these movements using task-relevant visual cues. The results demonstrate that the two groups used different learning strategies for the same visual environment and that the learning strategy was influenced by prior learning experience.
Nicotine enhances inhibition of mouse vagal motor neurons by modulating excitability of premotor GABAergic neurons in the nucleus tractus solitarii
Authors: Xu Hong , Boychuk Jeffery A. , Boychuk Carie R. , Uteshev Victor V. , Smith Bret N.
Published: November 2014

The caudal nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) serves as the site of the first synapse for visceral sensory inputs to the central nervous system. The NTS sends functional projections to multiple brain nuclei, with gastric-related projections primarily targeting the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV). Previous studies have demonstrated that the majority of caudal NTS neurons that project to the DMV respond robustly to nicotine and express nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). However, the cytochemical identity and relationship with specific viscera of DMV-projecting, nicotine-responsive caudal NTS neurons have not been determined. The present study used transgenic mice that express enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under a GAD67 promoter in a subset of GABAergic neurons, in vivo retrograde pseudorabies viral labeling to identify gastric-related vagal complex neurons, and patch-clamp electrophysiology in acute brain stem slices to test the hypothesis that gastric-related and GABAergic inhibitory synaptic input to the DMV from the caudal NTS is under a robust modulatory control by nAChRs. Our results suggest that activation of nAChRs in the caudal NTS, but not DMV, potentiates GABAergic, but not glutamatergic, input to the DMV. Gastric-related caudal NTS and DMV neurons are directly involved in this nicotine-sensitive circuitry. Understanding the central patterns of nicotinic modulation of visceral sensory-motor circuitry may help develop therapeutic interventions to restore autonomic homeostasis in patients with autonomic impairments.
Intrinsic neurophysiological properties of hilar ectopic and normotopic dentate granule cells in human temporal lobe epilepsy and a rat model
Authors: Althaus A. L. , Sagher O. , Parent J. M. , Murphy G. G.
Published: November 2014

Hilar ectopic dentate granule cells (DGCs) are a salient feature of aberrant plasticity in human temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and most rodent models of the disease. Recent evidence from rodent TLE models suggests that hilar ectopic DGCs contribute to hyperexcitability within the epileptic hippocampal network. Here we investigate the intrinsic excitability of DGCs from humans with TLE and the rat pilocarpine TLE model with the objective of comparing the neurophysiology of hilar ectopic DGCs to their normotopic counterparts in the granule cell layer (GCL). We recorded from 36 GCL and 7 hilar DGCs from human TLE tissue. Compared with GCL DGCs, hilar DGCs in patient tissue exhibited lower action potential (AP) firing rates, more depolarized AP threshold, and differed in single AP waveform, consistent with an overall decrease in excitability. To evaluate the intrinsic neurophysiology of hilar ectopic DGCs, we made recordings from retrovirus-birthdated, adult-born DGCs 2–4 mo after pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus or sham treatment in rats. Hilar DGCs from epileptic rats exhibited higher AP firing rates than normotopic DGCs from epileptic or control animals. They also displayed more depolarized resting membrane potential and wider AP waveforms, indicating an overall increase in excitability. The contrasting findings between disease and disease model may reflect differences between the late-stage disease tissue available from human surgical specimens and the earlier disease stage examined in the rat TLE model. These data represent the first neurophysiological characterization of ectopic DGCs from human hippocampus and prospectively birthdated ectopic DGCs in a rodent TLE model.
DNA Methylation Is Involved in the Expression of miR-142-3p in Fibroblasts and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Abdul Razak Siti Razila , Baba Yukihiro , Nakauchi Hiromitsu , Otsu Makoto , Watanabe Sumiko
Published: December 2014

MicroRNAs are differentially expressed in cells and regulate multiple biological processes. We have been analyzing comprehensive expression patterns of microRNA in human and mouse embryonic stem and induced pluripotent stem cells. We determined microRNAs specifically expressed in these pluripotent stem cells, and miR-142-3p is one of such microRNAs. miR-142-3p is expressed at higher levels in induced pluripotent stem cells relative to fibroblasts in mice. Level of expression of miR142-3p decreased during embryoid body formation from induced pluripotent stem cells. Loss-of-function analyses of miR-142-3p suggested that miR-142-3p plays roles in the proliferation and differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells. CpG motifs were found in the 5′ genomic region of themiR-142-3p; they were highly methylated in fibroblasts, but not in undifferentiated induced pluripotent stem cells. Treating fibroblasts with 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine increased the expression of miR-142-3p significantly and reduced methylation at the CpG sites, suggesting that the expression of miR-142-3p is suppressed by DNA methylation in fibroblasts. Luciferase analysis using various lengths of the 5′ genomic region of miR142-3p indicated that CpGs in the proximal enhancer region may play roles in suppressing the expression of miR-142-3p in fibroblasts.
Characteristic Fingerprint Based on Low Polar Constituents for Discrimination ofWolfiporia extensaaccording to Geographical Origin Using UV Spectroscopy and Chemometrics Methods
Authors: Li Yan , Zhang Ji , Zhao Yanli , Li Zhimin , Li Tao , Wang Yuanzhong
Published: December 2014

The fungus speciesWolfiporia extensahas a long history of medicinal usage and has also been commercially used to formulate nutraceuticals and functional foods in certain Asian countries. In the present study, a practical and promising method has been developed to discriminate the dried sclerotium ofW. extensacollected from different geographical sites based on UV spectroscopy together with chemometrics methods. Characteristic fingerprint of low polar constituents of sample extracts that originated from chloroform has been obtained in the interval 250–400 nm. Chemometric pattern recognition methods such as partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were applied to enhance the authenticity of discrimination of the specimens. The results showed thatW. extensasamples were well classified according to their geographical origins. The proposed method can fully utilize diversified fingerprint characteristics of sclerotium ofW. extensaand requires low-cost equipment and short-time analysis in comparison with other techniques. Meanwhile, this simple and efficient method may serve as a basis for the authentication of other medicinal fungi.
Follicular Lymphoma Presenting with Leptomeningeal Disease
Authors: Costa Rubens , Costa Ricardo , Costa Renata
Published: December 2014

Follicular lymphoma is generally an indolent B cell lymphoproliferative disorder of transformed follicular center B cells. Central nervous system metastasis is a very rare complication portending a very poor prognosis. We report a rare case of follicular lymphoma presenting with leptomeningeal involvement achieving a complete remission after initial therapy.
A Case of Multiple Myeloma with Metachronous Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treated Successfully with Bortezomib, Dexamethasone, and Dasatinib
Authors: Alsidawi Samer , Ghose Abhimanyu , Qualtieri Julianne , Radhakrishnan Neetu
Published: December 2014

The coexistence of multiple myeloma and chronic myeloid leukemia in a single patient is a very rare event that has been reported very infrequently in the literature. We report a case of a patient who developed chronic myeloid leukemia four years after his diagnosis with multiple myeloma. Historically, no link between the two malignancies has been identified. This synchronous existence complicates the treatment plan for these patients, and there is a lack of evidence on the best therapeutic approach. Our patient was successfully treated with a combination of bortezomib, dexamethasone, and dasatinib, which he tolerated well for eleven months until he eventually succumbed to cardiac complications and pulmonary hypertension leading to his death.
Cognitive Changes after Surgery in the Elderly: Does Minimally Invasive Surgery Influence the Incidence of Postoperative Cognitive Changes Compared to Open Colon Surgery?
Authors: Tan Christopher B. , Ng Jackson , Jeganathan Rajkumar , Kawai Fernando , Pan Cynthia X. , Pollock Simcha , Turner James , Cohen Steven , Chorost Mitchell
Published: November 2014

Background: Postoperative delirium in the elderly is a growing concern. Data regarding significant differences in postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in elderly persons undergoing laparoscopic versus open colon resection are not well established. Objectives: The goal of this study was to compare the incidence of POCD in laparoscopic versus open colon surgery in an elderly population. Design and Setting: A prospective nonrandomized pilot study was conducted at an urban tertiary care hospital. Participants: The study included patients aged 65 years and above, without documented dementia who underwent elective colon surgery. Measurements: We collected demographic and clinical data, including age, sex, polypharmacy, and comorbidities. The subjects underwent pre- and postoperative Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) testing. Worsening individual scores from the Paired Associated Learning (PAL) and Spatial Working Memory (SWM) portions of CANTAB determined the presence of POCD. Inflammatory cytokine (i.e., IL-6) levels were measured pre- and postoperatively. Results: We enrolled 44 subjects (26 laparoscopic and 18 open surgery). The two groups did not differ significantly in age, sex, polypharmacy, and comorbidities. The average incidence of POCD was 47%. PAL scores worsened in 12/23 (52%) in the laparoscopic group and in 7/15 (47%) in the open group. These group differences lacked statistical significance (p = 0.75). SWM scores worsened in 14/25 (56%) in the laparoscopic group and in 6/18 (33%) in the open group, which was also not statistically significant (p = 0.12). No age difference occurred between the ‘worsened scores' group and ‘stable scores' group, and older age was not associated with POCD. IL-6 levels were higher in the open versus the laparoscopic group (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: In this pilot study, the average incidence of POCD was not statistically different between elderly subjects undergoing open versus laparoscopic surgery. Age did not influence the occurrence of POCD. Although inflammatory markers were significantly higher in the open group, consistent with a higher degree of stress response, this group did not have higher rates of delirium. This association is worth to be investigated in a larger sample. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Dog Ear Graft for Closure of the Large Skin Defects in Meningomyelocele Surgery
Authors: Cifci Mehmet , Serefhan Alpay , Yücesoy Ali Naki
Published: November 2014

The closure of large skin defects is one of the challenging problems in plastic surgery and neurosurgery. Different reconstructive surgical techniques can be used for closing large skin defects. We report a technique for closing the large skin defects after the surgical repair of meningomyeloceles.
Does the New Staging System Proposed for Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome Provide Reliable Agreement for T1 and T2 Disease?
Authors: Fernández-de-Misa Ricardo , Hernández Machín Buenaventura , Aguirre-Jaime Armando , Pérez-Méndez Lina Inmaculada , Peñate Yeray , Suárez Hernández José
Published: November 2014

Background: Patch or plaque stages in mycosis fungoides (MF) have different prognoses. The recent staging system proposed for MF discriminates between patches and plaques based upon clinical features. Objective: To estimate interdermatologist agreement on the morphological evaluation of MF lesions. Methods: Twenty-four patients with MF were enrolled. Two dermatologists evaluated every lesion face to face and independently with respect to the patch-plaque status. Cohen's κ was used to determine the rate of agreement. Results: Agreement was 67% with respect to the patch or plaque status [95% confidence interval (CI) = 49-85%; p < 0.001]. Current systemic treatment (56%; p = 0.01) was associated with lower agreement. Younger age at diagnosis [odds ratio (OR) 1.03 (95% CI 1.02-1.05)], younger age at enrolment [OR 1.03 (95% CI 1.02-1.04)] and time on systemic treatment [OR 1.02 (95% CI 1.01-1.04)] were independent risk factors for disagreement (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The new system for MF staging carries a significant risk of disagreement regarding patch and plaque subsets.
Brain Metabolism in Substance-Induced Psychosis and Schizophrenia: A Preliminary PET Study
Authors: Dragogna Filippo , Mauri Massimo C. , Marotta Giorgio , Armao F. Teodora , Brambilla Paolo , Altamura A. Carlo
Published: November 2014

Introduction: The relation between schizophrenia and cannabis abuse has been widely discussed from etiopathogenetic, psychopathological and neurometabolic points of view. Relatively little has been written about the differences between schizophrenia with co-occurrent cannabis abuse and substance-induced psychotic disorder (SIPD). Given these premises, our study aims to investigate the psychopathological and neurometabolic features of these clinical entities. Methods: We enrolled patients experiencing an acute psychotic episode, affected either by schizophrenia with or without cannabis abuse (SCZ +/- CA; n = 5 and n = 5, respectively) with recent onset (<5 years of illness) or by SIPD (n = 6), as diagnosed by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I. Patients affected by SIPD were all cannabis abusers. All patients were assessed with the PANSS (Positive and Negative Scale for Schizophrenia), urinary toxicological tests and brain 18-FDG-PET scanning in resting condition. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) was performed with Statistical Parametric Mapping SPM8 and Scenium software. Results: Bilateral hypermetabolism in the posterior cingulum and the precuneus (p < 0.001) was observed in SIPD patients compared to patients with schizophrenia, with or without cannabis abuse. Conclusions: Our preliminary PET findings suggest that substance abuse may cause increased brain metabolism in patients with induced psychosis but not in those with schizophrenia. These differences in brain metabolism were found in the posterior cingulum and precuneus, which are two core regions of the default mode network in humans. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Neurotoxicity as a Prognostic Factor in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer Treated with Ixabepilone as a First-Line Therapy
Authors: Durando Xavier , Dalenc Florence , Abrial Catherine , Mouret-Reynier Marie-Ange , Herviou Pauline , Kwiatkowski Fabrice , Chollet Philippe , Roche Henri , Thivat Emilie
Published: November 2014

Objective: This study is a longitudinal follow-up of metastatic breast cancer patients treated with ixabepilone as first-line chemotherapy, with the aim to evaluate the association between a mechanism-based neurotoxicity and the efficacy of ixabepilone. Patients and Methods: At the 2 main investigational sites of a phase II clinical trial, 50 patients previously treated with anthracycline received ixabepilone. A chart review was performed to evaluate overall survival (OS) and time to progression (TTP) and to describe the subsequent treatments. Results: The severe neurotoxicity induced by ixabepilone (38%) is correlated with a higher overall response rate to ixabepilone (79 vs. 48%; p = 0.042), a longer TTP (11.4 vs. 6.8 months; p = 0.023) and a longer OS (36.6 vs. 19.9 months; p = 0.05). After ixabepilone discontinuation, patients received a median of 4 subsequent chemotherapy lines (range 1-12). Among the 31 patients who received taxanes, neither the neurotoxicity incidence under treatment with taxanes nor the response was affected by a previous occurrence under ixabepilone treatment. Conclusion: These findings suggest that neurotoxicity development under ixabepilone treatment is a predictor of treatment outcomes as well as a favorable prognostic factor. It highlights the risk-to-benefit ratio issue of ixabepilone. We noticed the possibility to treat patients with taxanes after ixabepilone without systematic recurrent neurotoxicity. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Association of Genetic Polymorphisms for Glutathione Peroxidase Genes with Obesity in Spanish Children
Authors: Rupérez Azahara I. , Olza Josune , Gil-Campos Mercedes , Leis Rosaura , Mesa María Dolores , Tojo Rafael , Cañete Ramón , Gil Ángel , Aguilera Concepción M.
Published: December 2014

Background/Aims: Altered expression and activity of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidases (GPXs) have been observed in obesity in human and animal studies. We aimed to study 59 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for GPX1-7 genes and to characterize their association with prepubertal childhood obesity and its associated biomarkers. Methods: This case-control study included 193 obese and 191 normal-weight prepubertal Spanish children, in whom anthropometry, biochemical parameters, adipokines, antioxidant enzyme erythrocyte activities and biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation and cardiovascular risk were measured. The genotype analysis was performed in the Illumina platform. PLINK and SPSS were used for statistical analyses. Results: We found SNPs rs757228 and rs8103188 (GPX4) to be negatively associated and rs445870 (GPX5) and rs406113 (GPX6) to be positively associated with obesity in children. The variant rs2074451 (GPX4) increased GPX activity in erythrocytes. Although we did not find significant differences in erythrocyte GPX activity between obese and normal-weight children, GPX activity was found to be positively and significantly correlated with blood pressure, adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Conclusions: The GPX variants rs757228, rs8103188, rs445870 and rs406113 were associated with prepubertal childhood obesity. However, erythrocyte GPX activity was not altered in obese prepubertal Spanish children.
Osteopontin Promotes EZH2 Expression and Tumor Progression in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Renqiang , Luo Xi , Feng Shaoyan , Li Jian , Fan Yunping , Wen Weiping , Li Huabin
Published: November 2014

Objective: To evaluate the possible mechanism of osteopontin (OPN) in the tumor progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Methods: Twenty NPC specimens and 10 normal biopsy specimens were analyzed, and the expression of OPN and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) was examined by immunohistochemical staining. Moreover, the expression of EZH2 in NPC cell lines was examined using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis in the presence of recombinant human (rh) OPN and specific inhibitors. NPC cell migration and invasion were evaluated using a transwell chamber in the presence of rhOPN and/or EZH2 siRNA. Results: The immunoreactivity of OPN and EZH2 was significantly enhanced in NPC specimens compared with the normal controls (p < 0.05). EZH2 expression in NPC specimens was significantly associated with OPN expression and tumor stage (p < 0.05). Moreover, rhOPN significantly stimulated EZH2 expression in the NPC cell line through a MAPK-mediated pathway and significantly stimulated migration and invasion of the NPC cell line (p < 0.05), which was notably inhibited by EZH2 siRNA transfection (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that OPN may promote tumor progression of NPC through an EZH2-dependent pathway. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Endovascular Treatment of Proximal Aortic Arch Lesions through a Retrograde Approach
Authors: Samaniego Edgar A. , Katzen Barry T. , Kreusch Andreas S. , Uthoff Heiko
Published: November 2014

Tandem atherosclerotic lesions of the carotid bifurcation and the ipsilateral proximal common carotid artery (CCA) or innominate arteries (IA) can be challenging to treat. A surgical approach may treat the lesion at the carotid bifurcation, but proximal CCA or IA lesions require a major surgical exposure. An endovascular approach is challenging as well since anatomic variations, such as a type III aortic arch, can render navigation very difficult. We report our experience in the hybrid surgical and endovascular treatment of complex proximal CCA and IA lesions. Eleven patients who underwent hybrid procedures with surgical exposure (with or without endarterectomy) of the carotid artery and retrograde endovascular intervention of a proximal lesion were included in the study. The mean percentage of stenosis was 81%. Seven patients underwent a carotid endarterectomy (CEA), and 4 patients underwent only a surgical cutdown for retrograde endovascular access of the IA or left CCA. All procedures were technically successful. Eight patients had no symptoms within 30 days of the procedure. The hybrid retrograde endovascular approach through carotid exposure with or without CEA appears to be effective and safe in selected patients who have a high-risk complex anatomy of tandem lesions. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
A Female Patient with Down Syndrome and Low-Penetrance Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy
Authors: Frousiakis Starleen E. , Pouw Andrew E. , Karanjia Rustum , Sadun Alfredo A.
Published: November 2014

We present the case of a 19-year-old female with a history of Down syndrome (DS) who was referred to our neuro-ophthalmology clinic for evaluation of Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). The patient's family history was significant for a known G11778A mutation in a maternal relative, consistent with LHON. The patient was also positive for the G11778A mutation; however, the genotype demonstrated low penetrance in the pedigree, with only 1 out of 10 adult male offspring showing signs or symptoms of the disease. Mitochondrial mutations implicated in LHON have been shown to impair complex I of the electron transport chain and thereby reducing the effective generation of adenosine triphosphate and increasing the production of toxic reactive oxygen species. Although the partial or complete triplicate of chromosome 21 constitutes the etiology of DS, some of the pleiotropic phenotypes of the syndrome have been attributed to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Given the low penetrance of the mutation and the patient's sex, this case illustrates the possibility that the mitochondrial mutation demonstrated increased penetrance due to pre-existing mitochondrial dysfunction related to DS.
Neighborhood-Level Racial/Ethnic Residential Segregation and Incident Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Kershaw Kiarri N. , Osypuk Theresa L. , Do D. Phuong , De Chavez Peter J. , Diez Roux Ana V.
Published: December 2014

Background—

Previous research suggests that neighborhood-level racial/ethnic residential segregation is linked to health, but it has not been studied prospectively in relation to cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods and Results—

Participants were 1595 non-Hispanic black, 2345 non-Hispanic white, and 1289 Hispanic adults from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis free of CVD at baseline (aged 45–84 years). Own-group racial/ethnic residential segregation was assessed by using the
G

i

* statistic, a measure of how the neighborhood racial/ethnic composition deviates from surrounding counties’ racial/ethnic composition. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to estimate hazard ratios for incident CVD (first definite angina, probable angina followed by revascularization, myocardial infarction, resuscitated cardiac arrest, coronary heart disease death, stroke, or stroke death) over 10.2 median years of follow-up. Among blacks, each standard deviation increase in black segregation was associated with a 12% higher hazard of developing CVD after adjusting for demographics (95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.22). This association persisted after adjustment for neighborhood-level characteristics, individual socioeconomic position, and CVD risk factors (hazard ratio, 1.12; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.23). For whites, higher white segregation was associated with lower CVD risk after adjusting for demographics (hazard ratio, 0.88; 95% confidence interval, 0.81–0.96), but not after further adjustment for neighborhood characteristics. Segregation was not associated with CVD risk among Hispanics. Similar results were obtained after adjusting for time-varying segregation and covariates.

Conclusions—

The association of residential segregation with cardiovascular risk varies according to race/ethnicity. Further work is needed to better characterize the individual- and neighborhood-level pathways linking segregation to CVD risk.
Communication Technology and Mass Propaganda in Republican China
Authors: De Giorgi Laura
Published: December 2014

This article analyses the policies and plans of the Nationalist Party (Guomindang, GMD) regarding wireless radio broadcasting, arguing that they laid the foundations for the development of a national-level modern cultural institution aimed, for the first time in China, at mass propaganda and education. During the Nanjing decade, notwithstanding its limits beyond the most developed urban areas, the Nationalists’ approach was the extensive use of radio broadcasting for the ‘partyfication’ (danghua) of Chinese state structure and the Chinese people’s social and cultural life. Nevertheless, their aspirations were greater than their ability to transform the plan into reality. Unable to impose an effective state monopoly on radio communication and broadcasting infrastructures, the Nationalists’ aims to exert stronger control and to gain a hegemonic position in the Chinese ‘ether’ could be achieved only by resorting to technical, administrative and legal measures whose efficacy was rather limited, because it was subordinated to a capacity to have them implemented. The Nationalists’ main accomplishments were the establishment of a powerful national radio broadcasting station under the control of the Party in Nanjing and of a central-level commission aimed at coordinating the work of the different state, Party and military bureaucracies involved in radio broadcasting propaganda.
Long Life, Natural Death
Authors: van ’t Land Karine
Published: December 2014

Within late medieval learned medicine, natural death functioned both as a theoretical concept and as a goal for practice. Late medieval commentaries on Avicenna’s Canon are used as source material in this study, in order to investigate the ways in which these learned medical authors envisaged natural death. The findings are compared to descriptions of natural death by natural philosophers, and to ideals of dying in broader medieval culture. According to the physicians, natural death was caused by the extinction of innate heat, due to a lack of innate moisture. They discussed natural death in relation to regimen, as the right regimen protected the body’s heat and moisture, and thus helped a patient to keep natural death aloof. So, in order to think about natural death, the physicians turned to the whole of life, during which heat dried out moisture and regimens ought to be followed. By contrast, natural philosophers tended to focus on the moment of death itself. The comparison of natural death with the Good Death in broad medieval culture highlights the amoral nature of the natural death.
Morphological and phylogenetic characterization of seven species of Vaucheria (Xanthophyceae), including two new species, from contrasting habitats in New Zealand
Authors: Muralidhar Abishek , BROADY PAUL A. , MACINTYRE DUNCAN P. , WILCOX MICHAEL D. , GARRILL ASHLEY , NOVIS PHIL M.
Published: November 2014

Vaucheria is a genus of yellow-green algae, the taxonomy of which is based on the morphology of antheridia and oogonia. Distribution of Vaucheria in New Zealand is poorly understood. Only two studies have investigated phylogenetic relationships in the genus world-wide and these omitted some of the diversity found in New Zealand. We identified seven species of Vaucheria based on morphology of their reproductive structures. Two were described as new species (V. aestuarii and V. edaphica), two were reported for the first time from New Zealand (V. erythrospora and V. litorea), one has been reported previously (V. bursata), and the identification of the remaining two was inconclusive (Vaucheria cf. borealis and Vaucheria cf. conifera). The genetic variation and phylogenetic position of these species were studied using phylogenetic analyses of rbcL sequences. These showed the existence of morphologically indistinguishable cryptic species complexes in sect. Corniculatae. Our results were mostly consistent with the current morphology-based sectional classification of the genus.
A new annelid species from whalebones in Greenland and aquaculture sites in Newfoundland: Ophryotrocha cyclops, sp. nov. (Eunicida: Dorvilleidae)
Authors: SALVO FLORA , WIKLUND HELENA , DUFOUR SUZANNE C. , HAMOUTENE DOUNIA , POHLE GERHARD , WORSAAE KATRINE
Published: November 2014

A new species of Ophryotrocha was discovered on whalebones in Greenland (120 m depth) and at finfish aquaculture sites in Newfoundland (30–70 m depth), where it is considered to be a bioindicator of aquaculture-related organic enrichment. Phylogenetic analyses based on three genes (COI, 16S mitochondrial and H3 nuclear genes) show close affinities with O. lobifera and O. craigsmithi, two species also found on both whalebones and at aquaculture sites (North Sea), and with O. shieldsi from aquaculture sites in Tasmania. The new species is named Ophryotrocha cyclops sp. nov. due to the juxtaposed, quasi-fused central eyes that give the impression of a single eye in live specimens.
Re-examination of Hemidactylus tenkatei van Lidth de Jeude, 1895: Populations from Timor provide insight into the taxonomy of the H. brookii Gray, 1845 complex (Squamata: Gekkonidae)
Authors: KATHRINER ANDREW , O’SHEA MARK , KAISER HINRICH
Published: November 2014

Recent herpetofaunal investigations in Timor-Leste revealed populations similar to Hemidactylus brookii Gray, 1845 in four of 13 districts. In order to properly identify these populations, we examined their relationships to other H. brookii-complex populations, notably those from nearby Roti Island, Indonesia (to which the name H. tenkatei van Lidth de Jeude, 1895 has been applied) and topotypic Bornean samples. We evaluated both meristic and mensural data from a set of specimens that included the type material of H. brookii and H. tenkatei, and we generated nuclear (RAG1) and mitochondrial (ND2) DNA sequence data for Timor-Leste specimens and a topotypical Bornean specimen presumed to represent H. brookii sensu stricto. Morphologically, Timorese geckos are clearly distinct from H. brookii and identical to H. tenkatei. Our molecular data show that the Bornean specimen thought to be H. brookii is genetically congruent with Timor-Leste specimens, and this specimen is therefore identified as H. tenkatei. Our data also reveal that the Burmese species H. subtriedroides Annandale, 1905 is distinct from both H. tenkatei and H. brookii. While the current data do not allow us to determine with certainty whether H. tenkatei is the oldest available name for these widespread forms, it is the only name that can be reliably applied at this time.
iSybislaw sprzymierzeńcem studentów, doktorantów oraz pracowników naukowych
Authors: Fastyn Marcin
Published: November 2014

iSybislaw is a Bibliographic Database for students, post-graduate students and researchersIn this paper the iSybislaw bibliographic database of World Slavic Linguistics publications is presented. The author demonstrates its vast potential as a research tool and citation source, concentrating on the possibilities of using all iSybislaw functions and options in university teaching and scientific research. The author points out that the database can be used not only by students and scientists of Slavic, Polish and Russian philology, but also, even if to a lesser extent, for philologies and linguistics of all languages. iSybislaw sprzymierzeńcem studentów, doktorantów oraz pracowników naukowychW pracy prezentowana jest bibliograficzna baza danych publikacji z zakresu światowego językoznawstwa slawistycznego. Autor pokazuje jej olbrzymi potencjał jako źródła informacji i cytowań, koncentrując się na możliwościach wykorzystania wszystkich funkcji iSybislawa w nauczaniu uniwersyteckim i pracy naukowej. Zostało podkreślone, że baza danych iSybislaw może być użyteczna nie tylko dla studentów i naukowców zajmujących się slawistyką, polonistyką i rusycystyką, ale także, nawet jeśli w mniejszym stopniu, dla filologów wszystkich języków oraz językoznawców.
Transoral Submandibular Ganglion Neurectomy
Authors: Spock Todd , Hoffman Henry T. , Joshi Arjun S.
Published: November 2014

Background:

The management of sialorrhea can be difficult for both the patient and the clinician. Current management includes behavioral modification, anticholinergics, botulinum injections, and a variety of surgical options, which all have demonstrated some efficacy. As minimally invasive procedures flourish, we explore the feasibility of highly selective transoral submandibular neurectomy (TOSN) for the management of sialorrhea.

Methods:

Ten human cadaver dissections of the floor of mouth were performed bilaterally, for a total of 20 separate cases. An intraoral technique for highly selective, submandibular ganglion neurectomy is demonstrated.

Results:

A transoral submandibular ganglion neurectomy was performed in 10 cadavers (20 neurectomies) easily and reliably, without injury to the submandibular duct or the main trunk of the lingual nerve.

Conclusion:

Transoral submandibular neurectomy is an attractive addition to the armamentarium of surgical options for the treatment of medically intractable sialorrhea. Further study in selected patients would need to be performed to demonstrate clinical feasibility.
Toy-Related Injuries Among Children Treated in US Emergency Departments, 1990-2011
Authors: Abraham Vihas M. , Gaw Christopher E. , Chounthirath Thiphalak , Smith Gary A.
Published: December 2014

This study investigates the epidemiology of injuries associated with toys among US children by analyzing data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. During 1990-2011, an estimated 3 278 073 (95% confidence interval = 2 762 281-3 793 865) children <18 years old were treated in US emergency departments for toy-related injuries, averaging 149 003 cases annually. The annual injury rate per 10 000 children increased significantly by 39.9% from 18.88 in 1990 to 26.42 in 2011. The number and rate of injuries peaked at age 2 years; 63.4% of patients were male; and 80.3% of injuries occurred at home. Ride-on toys accounted for 34.9% of injuries and 42.5% of hospital admissions. This study is the first to comprehensively investigate toy-related injuries among children using a nationally representative data set. The increasing number and rate of toy-related injuries to children, especially those associated with ride-on toys, underscore the need for increased efforts to prevent these injuries.
Integrated strategy for berth allocation and crane assignment on a continuous berth using Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Ji Mingjun , Zhu Huiling , Wang Qingbin , Zhao Rui , Yang Yongzhi
Published: November 2014

The designation of berths, the service strategy for vessels and the assignment of cranes are important for improving the operational efficiency of container terminals. The berth may be discrete or continuous, we focus on the continuous situation. In this paper we first establish an evaluation index system for describing continuous berth allocation, service strategy for vessels and assignment of cranes. We then design Monte Carlo method to simulate different scenarios of operation and calculate various performance indices. The data is analyzed by variance and sensitivity analysis. We finally use the index values to design reasonable operation schedules for integrating berth allocation and crane assignment.
From Immolation to Restoration: The Jesuits, 1773–1814
Authors: Wright Jonathan
Published: November 2014

The period between global suppression (1773) and universal restoration (1814) had a profound impact on the 19th-century Society of Jesus. After an account of the events of the suppression years, the author looks at the impact on both Jesuit self-identity (the relationship between “old” and “new” Society), the Society’s relationship with the papacy, and the Jesuits’ interaction with the broader 19th-century culture. He concludes with some historiographical remarks on the current state and future directions of scholarship concerning this period.
The “Third Way” of the Modernist Crisis, Precursor of Nouvelle Théologie: Ambroise Gardeil, O.P., and Léonce de Grandmaison, S.J.
Authors: Mettepenningen Jürgen , Kestermeier Charles T.
Published: November 2014

The article focuses on what connects the Modernist crisis and the crisis surrounding la nouvelle théologie. Focusing mainly on the work of Ambroise Gardeil, O.P., and Léonce de Grandmaison, S.J., the author shows that representatives of a so-called “third way” (between Modernism and anti-Modernism) were the spiritual fathers of the protagonists of la nouvelle théologie.
Addendum on the Grace–Nature Distinction
Authors: Ormerod Neil
Published: November 2014

In a previous article the author noted the role of Lonergan’s four-point hypothesis in unpacking the order of grace in the grace–nature distinction. Here he demonstrates how the hypothesis can be used to resolve classical tensions within the grace–nature debate, arguing that any genuine resolution to those tensions must evoke something like Lonergan’s four-point hypothesis. This parallels Rahner’s observation that only a trinitarian God can be a self-communicating God.
Social mix and housing policy: Local effects of a misleading rhetoric. The case of Milan
Authors: Bricocoli Massimo , Cucca Roberta
Published: November 2014

The article focuses on different uses of the concept of social mix and on emerging criticalities of its use as a planning principle by discussing the results of empirical research on recent housing projects in Milan, Italy. Although the concept of social mix is generally represented as a tool to improve the living conditions of disadvantaged social groups, the praise for social mix in new housing projects may also be driven by the will of targeting the needs of specific medium–low income groups considered functional to urban growth, and by the increase of real estate values that it may provide. In urban contexts affected by a severe shortage of rental housing, social mix strategies may foster the exclusion of lowest-income groups from access to social housing and favour their segregation. Especially with reference to southern European cities, social mix risks becoming a catchword with paradoxical effects in local policy agendas and the topic of mixed communities becoming employed as a socio-political lever for developer-led, profit-making developments.
Polylactic acid glycolysate as a cross-linker for epoxidized natural rubber
Authors: Sukpuang Phrutsadee , Opaprakasit Mantana , Petchsuk Atitsa , Tangboriboonrat Pramuan , Sojikul Punchapat , Opaprakasit Pakorn
Published: November 2014

Hydroxyl-capped polylactic acid (PLA) oligomers are prepared by glycolysis reaction of PLA with ethylene glycol (EG) and used as a macromolecular cross-linker for epoxidized natural rubber (ENR). The glycolyzed PLA (GPLA) with three different molecular weights (2000, 10,000, and 44,000 g mol−1) are prepared by varying the glycolysis conditions. Effects of GPLA chain lengths and GPLA/ENR feed ratios on cross-linking efficiency, chemical structures, and physical properties of the cured products are investigated. The cross-linking efficiency is examined using a moving die rheometer, solvent fractionation, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Optimum GPLA/ENR compositions for the curing reaction range from 20 wt% to 33 wt%, depending on the GPLA chain length. Because of their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and the ability to tune up their structures and properties, the cured rubber materials have high potential for use in various biomedical applications.
Hypopharynx and Larynx Defect Repair after Resection for Pyriform Fossa Cancer with a Platysma Skin Flap
Authors: Cai Qian , Liang Faya , Huang Xiaoming , Han Ping , Pan Yong , Zheng Yiqing
Published: November 2014

We used a platysma skin flap to repair larynx and hypopharynx defects to improve postoperative laryngeal function in patients with pyriform fossa cancer. Larynx‐sparing surgery and postoperative radiotherapy were used in 10 patients with pyriform fossa cancer. The surgical approaches of lymph node dissection of the neck, vertical partial laryngectomy, and pyriform fossa resection were adopted, and a platysma skin flap was used to repair the resulting defects. In this group, the overall 3‐year survival rate was 75% according to the Kaplan‐Meier analysis, and the local control rate was 90%. Additionally, all patients were able to speak fluently with mild‐to‐moderate hoarseness. The tracheal tube was removed in all cases. Laryngeal fistulas were observed in 1 patient during radiotherapy. In conclusion, a platysma skin flap can be used to rebuild the larynx and hypopharynx in larynx‐sparing resection for pyriform fossa cancer. These patients can obtain good postoperative function in swallowing, breathing, and pronunciation.
Assessing the Contributions of Collaborators in Public–Private Partnerships
Authors: Bland Robert L. , Overton Michael
Published: November 2014

Partnerships that bring together public, private, and nonprofit organizations have become widely used by local governments. But we lack knowledge about the distinct contributions of collaborators to the partnership. This study uses tax increment financing (TIF) in Dallas, Texas, to assess the distinctive roles of public and private partners in achieving mutually beneficial policy outcomes. We find that, while public investment is essential to the partnership’s success, private investment directly increases property values. The city’s greatest contribution is to leverage private investment to create added taxable value in the TIF district. The increased property value provides revenue that is used for public purposes benefiting TIF district occupants. As with other quasi-private institutions that have gained popularity in the new order of governance, the appeal of TIF is its capacity to create public goods with bounded benefits. In addition, both institutional and operational knowledge contribute to the partnership’s success. The city’s experience at establishing new TIF districts and administering existing ones increases taxable value.
Osteochondrosis Can Lead to Formation of Pseudocysts and True Cysts in the Subchondral Bone of Horses
Authors: Olstad K. , Østevik L. , Carlson C. S. , Ekman S.
Published: November 2014

Osteochondrosis arises as a result of focal failure of the blood supply to growth cartilage. The current aim was to examine the pathogenesis of pseudocysts and true cysts in subchondral bone following failure of the blood supply to the articular-epiphyseal cartilage complex in horses. Cases were recruited based on identification of lesions ( n = 17) that were considered likely to progress to or to represent pseudocysts or true cysts in epiphyseal bone in histological sections and included 10 horses ranging in age from 48 days to 5 years old. Cases comprised 3 warmbloods, 3 Standardbreds, 1 Quarter horse and 1 Arabian with spontaneous lesions and 2 Fjord ponies with experimentally induced lesions. Seven lesions consisted of areas of ischemic chondronecrosis and were compatible with pseudocysts. Two lesions were located at intermediate depth in epiphyseal growth cartilage, 2 lesions were located in the ossification front, 2 lesions were located in epiphyseal bone and 1 lesion was located in the metaphyseal growth plate (physis). Ten lesions contained dilated blood vessels and were compatible with true cysts. In 2 lesions the dilated blood vessels were located within the lumina of failed cartilage canals. In the 8 remaining lesions areas of ischemic chondronecrosis were associated with granulation tissue in the subjacent bone and dilated vessels were located within this granulation tissue. Failure of the blood supply and ischemic chondronecrosis can lead to formation of pseudocysts or dilatation of blood vessels and formation of true cysts in the epiphyseal bone of horses.
L’adéquation du cadrage du message et de la distance temporelle : un moyen efficace de promouvoir un produit innovant
Authors: Balbo Laurie , Jeannot Florence
Published: November 2014

Cet article présente les résultats de trois expérimentations qui étudient les effets de l’adéquation entre le cadrage du message et le niveau de représentation – induit par la distance temporelle – sur l’intention d’achat et le consentement à payer pour un produit innovant (des lunettes à réalité augmentée). De manière générale, les résultats indiquent qu’un message de gains associé à un achat envisagé à long terme ainsi qu’un message de pertes associé à un achat envisagé à court terme sont les combinaisons les plus efficaces pour promouvoir un produit innovant, mais que le degré de novation du produit et l’orientation temporelle du récepteur de la publicité modèrent les effets obtenus. Par ailleurs, les résultats mettent en évidence le rôle médiateur de la fluidité à traiter le message.