bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association of the Rapid Assessment of Supervision Scale Score and Unintentional Childhood Injury
Authors: Anderst James , Teran Paul , Dowd M. Denise , Simon Steve , Schnitzer Patricia
Published: January 2015

Supervisory neglect is often considered in medical settings when a child presents with an unintentional injury. The Rapid Assessment of Supervision Scale (RASS) is a clinical decision-making tool for the assessment of supervision of young children. As the next step in the development of the RASS, we assessed the association of RASS scores with unintentional injury. This study was a secondary analysis of data from a case-crossover study, which examined the association of parental supervision and unintentional injury in children. Data on supervision characteristics for 3 time periods for each child were available, that is, one injury scenario and two “control” time periods when no injury occurred. Blinded to injury status, four raters independently evaluated adequacy of supervision in 132 supervision scenarios using the RASS. The individual RASS scores of the four raters and the group (mean) RASS score of the four raters were evaluated for associations with injury status. Individual scores from three of the four raters demonstrated significant associations of increasing RASS scores with injury. Increasing group RASS scores (odds ratio = 2.8; 95% confidence interval [1.5, 5.1]) were associated with greater likelihood of injury. Further testing may result in a tool that aids medical personnel in the evaluation of adequacy of supervision.
HeartWare Ventricular Assist Device Placement in a Patient With Corrected Dextro-Transposition of Great Arteries
Authors: Sehgal Sankalp , Ramachandran Sujatha , Leff Jonathan D.
Published: January 2015

Given the improved survival in patients with corrected dextro-transposition of great arteries (D-TGA), it has evolved into an adult congenital heart defect. It is important to understand the management and complications observed in this population that eventually progresses to systemic ventricular failure requiring cardiac transplantation. Our case focuses on the rapid right ventricle (RV) deterioration of a patient with corrected D-TGA following a surgical procedure requiring systemic support. With such patients awaiting heart transplantation, there are limited assist devices available for RV support and no right ventricular assist device is approved for destination therapy yet. Current indications for implantation of the HeartWare ventricular assist device (HVAD) are limited by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to the left ventricle support as a bridge to transplantation. However, its use in the United States for right-sided support has rarely been described for adult congenital defects. In this case, a HeartWare assist device was used to provide systemic support as a bridge to cardiac transplant. The size and implantation design of the HVAD makes it a promising option for patients with this challenging patient population and RV failure as a late complication.
Comparison of axillary, tympanic membrane and rectal temperature measurement in cats
Authors: Smith Victoria A , Lamb Valerie , McBrearty Alix R
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Rectal temperature (RT) is routinely used to assess body temperature in cats but has limitations and can be poorly tolerated. Axillary temperature (AT) and tympanic membrane temperature (TMT) are reported alternatives. This study aimed to determine the differences between RT and AT, and between RT and TMT in cats. Additional aims were to examine the effect of environmental and patient factors on these differences and to assess patient tolerance to each technique.

Methods

AT, TMT and RT were measured in immediate succession. Measurement order was randomised, as was the choice of left or right axilla and tympanic membrane. A digital thermometer and a veterinary infrared ear thermometer were used. The subjective tolerance of each procedure was recorded.

Results

One hundred and fifty cats were included. Significantly more conscious cats were tolerant of AT (90.6%) than TMT (81.2%) and RT (53.0%). The rectal–axillary temperature difference ranged from −1.2°C to 1.4°C (median 0.1°C) and was within ±0.5°C in 78.0% of cats. On multivariable analysis the difference was larger in overweight cats, neutered cats, cats in which the right axilla was used and as the RT increased. The rectal–tympanic membrane temperature difference ranged from −1.6°C to 3°C (median −0.3°C) and was within ±0.5°C in 51.3% of cats, significantly fewer than for AT ( P <0.001). The rectal–tympanic membrane temperature difference increased as the RT increased.

Conclusions and relevance

TMT and AT should not be used interchangeably with RT in cats. When RT measurement is not possible, AT is recommended over TMT as it is better tolerated and significantly fewer cats had clinically unacceptable differences (>0.5°C). AT may more closely reflect RT in normal or underweight cats than it does in overweight cats.
Hospitality: What is its real value and how many does it really employ?
Authors: Quest Miles , Battersby David
Published: January 2015

What is the economic value of the UK hospitality industry and the wider tourism industry? How many people does each employ? Estimates from different sources provide wildly differing answers, leading to confusion and misunderstanding. Here, the authors, using information appearing in a new publication (Hospitality Digest 2014, 189 pages (PDF format only), is published by the Institute of Hospitality, ( www.instituteofhospitality.org ). It provides over 100 tables of information on the size and structure of the tourism, hotel, food service and conference industries, with a special section on employment and education with articles by leading educationists and commentators.), discuss the different values put on the size and value of UK tourism and UK hospitality, and suggest that only by improving productivity will creating 300,000 more jobs in the industry be justified.
Anonymous glory
Authors: Markell Patchen
Published: January 2015

Hannah Arendt’s political theory is often understood to rest on a celebration of action, the memorable words and deeds of named individuals, over against the anonymous processes constitutive of ‘labor’ and ‘society’. Yet at key moments in The Human Condition and The Origins of Totalitarianism, Arendt seems to signal a different relationship between political action and anonymity; and she does so in part via citations of the novels of William Faulkner. Using the apparently contradictory notion of ‘anonymous glory’ as a heuristic, this essay reconsiders Arendt’s political thought through readings of the novels she cites, A Fable and Intruder in the Dust. The essay argues that, for Arendt, a conception of action adequate to the scale of modern social power must somehow be both indelibly tied to individual deeds and immersed in a processual field that is indifferent to the needs for meaning or purpose or satisfaction that individuals bring to what they do; and that Arendt’s engagement with this problem both complicates the relation of action to its supposed opposites, and makes it more difficult to conceive of action’s recovery as a reliable source of theoretical or political redemption.
Responsible research and innovation: A manifesto for empirical ethics?
Authors: Gardner John , Williams Clare
Published: January 2015

In 2013 the Nuffield Council on Bioethics launched their report Novel Neurotechnologies: Intervening in the Brain. The report, which adopts the European Commission’s notion of Responsible Research and Innovation, puts forward a set of priorities to guide ethical research into, and the development of, new therapeutic neurotechnologies. In this paper, we critically engage with these priorities. We argue that the Nuffield Council’s priorities, and the Responsible Research and Innovation initiative as a whole, are laudable and should guide research and innovation in all areas of healthcare. However, we argue that operationalising Responsible Research and Innovation requires an in-depth understanding of the research and clinical contexts. Providing such an understanding is an important task for empirical ethics. Drawing on examples from sociology, science and technology studies, and related disciplines, we propose four avenues of social science research which can provide such an understanding. We suggest that these avenues can provide a manifesto for empirical ethics.
Impact of an Online Birth Control Support Network on Unintended Pregnancy
Authors: Antonishak Jill , Kaye Kelleen , Swiader Lawrence
Published: January 2015

We evaluated the effects of Bedsider.org—an online birth control support network—on unintended pregnancies among young women aged 18–29. Bedsider is the centerpiece of a comprehensive digital effort to encourage women to use birth control more consistently and effectively and consider using more effective forms of birth control over time. A sample of 2,284 women was randomly assigned to be exposed to Bedsider or to a control group (no exposure) condition. Women were surveyed throughout a 12-month period. Women in the Bedsider exposure group were less likely to have a pregnancy scare, an unintended pregnancy, or unprotected sex compared to the control group. Additionally, women in the Bedsider exposure group were more likely to use a more effective method of contraception over time compared to the control group. Future studies are needed to examine the dose–response relationship for exposure to Bedsider.org and for whom the intervention is most effective.
A Discrete-Choice Model of a College Football Recruit’s Program Selection Decision
Authors: Mirabile McDonald Paul , Witte Mark David
Published: January 2015

We formalize a discrete-choice model of program selection from the view of college football recruits. With a conditional logit model, we correctly predict the recruit’s preferred college for 65% of the 19,815 individuals, besting a purely random guess method (21%). We focus on the role football will play in postcollegiate careers of high-rated, mid-rated, and low-rated prospects in choosing a school. High-rated and mid-rated recruits value historical on-the-field success, historical head coach success, stadium capacity, media exposure, facilities, and coaching expenditures. Academic considerations and more recent on-the-field success, however, are more dominant factors for low-rated recruits.
Hypoxic Microenvironment Induces EMT and Upgrades Stem-Like Properties of Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Guo Jinbao , Wang Bin , Fu Zhongxue , Wei Jinlai , Lu Weidong
Published: January 2015

Hypoxia microenvironment, as a major feature of solid tumors, increases tumors progression and metastasis. To research whether hypoxia influences the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cells (CSCs) of gastric cancer cells and their cell biological behaviors. Human gastric cancer cell lines BGC823 and SGC7901 were cultivated in different oxygen tensions for proliferation, colony formation, soft agar formation, migration, and invasion analyses. Markers of EMT (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Vimentin, and Snail) and markers of CSCs (Sox2, Oct4, and Bmi1) were investigated by real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunofluorescent analysis. Cultivated at hypoxic condition, BGC823 and SGC7901 cells morphology began to change significantly. The cells pretreated under hypoxia grew faster than those cells always cultivated in normoxia. Meanwhile, hypoxia pretreatment dramatically promoted cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and increased capability of colony and soft agar colony formation. Furthermore, under hypoxia, E-cadherin decreased and N-cadherin, Vimentin, Snail, Sox2, Oct4, and Bmi1 increased both on the level of messenger RNA and protein. We drew a conclusion that the hypoxic microenvironment induced EMT, upgraded stem-like properties of gastric cancer cells, promoted invasion and metastasis, and behaved more malignantly.
Integrative Therapies in Cancer
Authors: Block Keith I. , Block Penny B. , Gyllenhaal Charlotte
Published: January 2015

Integrative medicine is an approach to health and healing that “makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches, health care professionals, and disciplines to achieve optimal health and healing.” A comprehensive integrative medicine intervention for cancer patients typically includes nutritional counseling, biobehavioral strategies, and promotion of physical activity, as well as dietary supplements including herbs, nutraceuticals, and phytochemicals. A broad-spectrum intervention of this type may contribute uniquely to improvement in cancer outcomes through its impact on a wide variety of relevant molecular targets, including effects on multiple cancer hallmarks. Hallmarks that may be particularly affected include genetic instability, tumor-promoting inflammation, deregulated metabolism, and immune system evasion. Because of their susceptibility to manipulation by diet, exercise, and supplementation, these may be characterized as metabolic hallmarks. Research on the use of comprehensive integrative approaches can contribute to the development of systems of multitargeted treatment regimens and would help clarify the combined effect of these approaches on cancer outcomes.
Linking Empowering Leadership to Job Satisfaction, Work Effort, and Creativity
Authors: Amundsen Stein , Martinsen Øyvind L.
Published: January 2015

This article reports the results from two studies ( N = 233 and 161) on the role of self-leadership and psychological empowerment in linking empowering leadership to subordinates’ job satisfaction, work effort, and creativity. In addition, the studies investigated self-leadership as a mediator between empowering leadership and psychological empowerment. Results from structural equation modeling indicated that empowering leadership positively affects psychological empowerment both directly and indirectly, through self-leadership. Psychological empowerment influences both job satisfaction and work effort but not creativity, whereas self-leadership influences work effort and creativity but not job satisfaction. The article discusses the implications of these findings.
Stand by Your Man
Authors: Ratan Rabindra A. , Taylor Nicholas , Hogan Jameson , Kennedy Tracy , Williams Dmitri
Published: January 2015

Although video gaming is becoming a more widespread activity beyond its historically core demographic of young males, participation in competitive gaming remains largely male dominated. Addressing this issue, this research examines the experience of female players in one of the world’s most popular games, League of Legends. Two studies—one qualitative (with 15 participants) and the other quantitative (with 16,821 participants)—confirm that although female players accrue skill at the same rate as males, there remains a dearth of female players in this community. Moreover, those females who play with a male partner are less confident in their skills and often focus on supporting their partner’s advancement, not their own. This work suggests that one way to address the gender gap in gaming is to better understand and improve the social dynamics within popular games.
Thumb carpometacarpal joint total arthroplasty: a systematic review
Authors: Huang K. , Hollevoet N. , Giddins G.
Published: January 2015

Thumb carpometacarpal joint total arthroplasty has been undertaken for many years. The proponents believe the short-term outcomes are better than trapeziectomy and its variants, but the longer term complications are often higher. This systematic review of all peer reviewed articles on thumb carpometacarpal joint total arthroplasty for osteoarthritis shows that there are reports of many implants. Some are no longer available. The reported outcomes are very variable: for some there are good long-term outcomes to beyond 10 years; for others there are unacceptably high early rates of failure. Overall the published evidence does not show that total arthroplasty is better than trapeziectomy and its variants yet there is a higher complication rate and significant extra cost of using an implant. Future research needs to compare total arthroplasty with trapeziectomy to assess short term results where the arthroplasties may be better, long-term outcomes and the healthcare and personal costs so that surgeons and patients can make fully informed choices about the treatment of symptomatic thumb carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis.
Management of idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis from the urologist’s perspective
Authors: Surcel Cristian , Mirvald Cristian , Pavelescu Cristian , Gingu Constantin , Carmen Savu , Emre Huri , Ioanel Sinescu
Published: January 2015

Introduction:

Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis (IRF) is a rare disease characterized by a fibrotic reaction that affects retroperitoneal organs, especially the urinary tract. In this review we analyze the current imaging techniques, morphological characteristics, clinical aspects and therapeutic aspects of idiopathic retroperitoneal disease.

Methods:

A PubMed search was conducted in December 2013 to find original articles, bibliographic reviews and series reports published in the past 15 years on idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis, its management and outcomes by combining terms like retroperitoneal fibrosis, periaortitis, treatment and autoimmune. A total of 89 articles were included in this review that referred strictly to IRF. We analyzed the imaging tools used for diagnostic and the decision making protocol used by physicians in the management of IRF.

Results:

A computerized tomography (CT) scan represents the most commonly used imaging technique for diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is unable to differentiate more accurately between benign and malignant retroperitoneal fibrosis (RF) than a CT scan. Biopsy remains the most reliable diagnostic tool for IRF. However, the histological characteristics of IRF are not yet well-deﬁned and the protocol for biopsy is not standardized in terms of template, number of biopsies and the immunohistochemical panel needed for positive diagnosis. The most common treatment reported is corticosteroid therapy alone or in combination with other immunosuppressants, whereas surgical treatment is reserved for severe cases. Indwelling ureteric stents represent the most common procedure for renal drainage, but their efficacy is questionable. Open ureterolysis remains the gold standard for surgical treatment, but its purpose is only to resolve the ureteric obstruction, not to treat the retroperitoneal fibrosis. Laparoscopic and robotic approaches have been reported to be feasible, but no prospective, comparative trials have been performed due to the rarity of the disease. Surgical technique is not standardized and the outcome of the treatment only evaluates the recovery of the renal function.

Conclusions:

The imaging procedures available today are unable to accurately differentiate between idiopathic and malignant RF. A biopsy is mandatory to confirm the diagnosis, but there is no consensus regarding the template, timing and number of biopsies needed to exclude malignancy. Open ureterolysis represents the main surgical treatment for cases with severe IRF, and laparoscopic or robotic approach may be an option in selected cases. The recovery of the renal function is a surrogate for evaluating the success of the treatment. More clinical studies are needed in order standardize the protocol for diagnostic, treatment and follow up after medical or surgical management.
Microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of Mg–9Li–3Al–2Sr alloy in change channel angular pressing
Authors: Wei G. , Peng X. , Liu J. , Hadadzadeh A. , Yang Y. , Xie W.
Published: January 2015

Change channel angular pressing is a specially designed continuous processing technique to prepare bulk ultrafine grained materials. The extrusion process and structure evolution of Mg–9Li–3Al–2Sr alloy were analysed. The long strip phases of α-Mg and β-Li were sheared into short pieces during extrusion. The continuous distribution Al4Sr phases were extruded into small particles, which are mainly observed in the α/β phase interface and β-Li matrix phase. Structure homogeneity can be achieved, and the mechanical properties were improved with one pass processing. The effect of Al4Sr phase on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–9Li–3Al–2Sr alloy was observed to be different due to the various extrusion modes and parts.
Targeted images of KB cells using folate-conjugated gold nanoparticles
Authors: Rathinaraj Pierson , Lee Kyubae , Park Soo-Young , Kang Inn-Kyu
Published: January 2015

Mercaptosuccinic acid-coated gold (GM) nanoparticles were prepared and characterized by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. Folic acid (F) was then conjugated to the GM to preferentially target oral squamous cancer (KB) cells with folate receptors expressed on their membranes and facilitate the transit of the nanoparticles across the cell membrane. Finally, a fluorescence dye (Atto) was conjugated to the nanoparticles to visualize their internalization into KB cells. After culture of the cells in a medium containing GM and folate-conjugated GM (GF), the interaction of surface-modified gold nanoparticles with KB cells was studied.
Deviations in gait metrics in patients with chronic ankle instability: a case control study
Authors: Gigi Roy , Haim Amir , Luger Elchanan , Segal Ganit , Melamed Eyal , Beer Yiftah , Nof Matityahu , Nyska Meir , Elbaz Avi
Published: January 2015

Background

Gait metric alterations have been previously reported in patients suffering from chronic ankle instability (CAI). Previous studies of gait in this population have been comprised of relatively small cohorts, and the findings of these studies are not uniform. The objective of the present study was to examine spatiotemporal gait metrics in patients with CAI and examine the relationship between self‐reported disease severity and the magnitude of gait abnormalities.

Methods

Forty‐four patients with CAI were identified and compared to 53 healthy controls. Patients were evaluated with spatiotemporal gait analysis via a computerized mat and with the Short Form (SF) ‐ 36 health survey.

Results

Patients with CAI were found to walk with approximately 16% slower walking velocity, 9% lower cadence and approximately 7% lower step length. Furthermore, the base of support, during walking, in the CAI group was approximately 43% wider, and the single limb support phase was 3.5% shorter compared to the control group.

All of the SF‐36 8‐subscales, as well as the SF‐36 physical component summary and SF‐36 mental component summary, were significantly lower in patients with CAI compared to the control group. Finally, significant correlations were found between most of the objective gait measures and the SF‐36 mental component summary and SF‐36 physical component summary.

Conclusions

The results outline a gait profile for patients suffering from CAI. Significant differences were found in most spatiotemporal gait metrics. An important finding was a significantly wider base of support. It may be speculated that these gait alterations may reflect a strategy to deal with imbalance and pain. These findings suggest the usefulness of gait metrics, alongside with the use of self‐evaluation questionnaires, in assessing disease severity of patients with CAI.
Bedside ultrasound training using web-based e-learning and simulation early in the curriculum of residents
Authors: Beaulieu Yanick , Laprise Réjean , Drolet Pierre , Thivierge Robert L , Serri Karim , Albert Martin , Lamontagne Alain , Bélliveau Marc , Denault André-Yves , Patenaude Jean-Victor
Published: January 2015

Background

Focused bedside ultrasound is rapidly becoming a standard of care to decrease the risks of complications related to invasive procedures. The purpose of this study was to assess whether adding to the curriculum of junior residents an educational intervention combining web-based e-learning and hands-on training would improve the residents’ proficiency in different clinical applications of bedside ultrasound as compared to using the traditional apprenticeship teaching method alone.

Methods

Junior residents (n = 39) were provided with two educational interventions (vascular and pleural ultrasound). Each intervention consisted of a combination of web-based e-learning and bedside hands-on training. Senior residents (n = 15) were the traditionally trained group and were not provided with the educational interventions.

Results

After the educational intervention, performance of the junior residents on the practical tests was superior to that of the senior residents. This was true for the vascular assessment (94% ± 5% vs. 68% ± 15%, unpaired student t test: p < 0.0001, mean difference: 26 (95% CI: 20 to 31)) and even more significant for the pleural assessment (92% ± 9% vs. 57% ± 25%, unpaired student t test: p < 0.0001, mean difference: 35 (95% CI: 23 to 44)). The junior residents also had a significantly higher success rate in performing ultrasound-guided needle insertion compared to the senior residents for both the transverse (95% vs. 60%, Fisher’s exact test p = 0.0048) and longitudinal views (100% vs. 73%, Fisher’s exact test p = 0.0055).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that a structured curriculum combining web-based education, hands-on training, and simulation integrated early in the training of the junior residents can lead to better proficiency in performing ultrasound-guided techniques compared to the traditional apprenticeship model.
Development and performance test of an online blood sampling system for determination of the arterial input function in rats
Authors: Roehrbacher Friedrich , Bankstahl Jens P , Bankstahl Marion , Wanek Thomas , Stanek Johann , Sauberer Michael , Muellauer Julia , Schroettner Thales , Langer Oliver , Kuntner Claudia
Published: January 2015

Background

For positron emission tomography (PET) kinetic modelling, an accurate determination of the arterial input function is required. In this study, a blood sampling system was developed and tested using different radiotracers in rats.

Methods

The detector consists of pairs of lutetium yttrium oxyorthosilicate (LYSO) detectors, photomultiplier tubes and lead shield assembled within a steel casing working in coincidence mode. Rats were cannulated with microtubes in the femoral artery and vein for arterial blood sampling as well as administration of the PET tracers. Connected PTFE microtubes were centred between the LYSO crystals using a special holder. To enhance sensitivity, three layers with two coils were used. A flexible tube pump was used to ensure a constant blood flow. Performance of the detector was assessed with [18F]fludeoxyglucose (FDG), [18F]ciprofloxacin, (R)-[11C]verapamil, [11C]tariquidar, [11C]mephobarbital and [11C]MC113. Obtained input function curves were compared with manual samples drawn every 5 s during the first 3 min and further on at 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 min after radiotracer injection. After manual sampling, an arterio/venous shunt was established. Shape and area-under-the-curve (AUC; Bq/μl*h) of the input functions were evaluated.

Results

The developed detector system provided an absolute sensitivity of 6.5%. Maximum peak values agreed well between manual samples and the detector with a mean difference of −0.4% ± 7.0% (max 12.0%, min −9.9%). AUC values also exhibited an excellent correlation (R = 0.996) between manual sampling and detector measurements with a mean difference of 9.3% ± 9.7% (max 24.1%, min −3.2%). The system was able to measure peak blood activity concentration levels of 110 to 2,000 Bq/μl which corresponds to injected activities from 5.5 to 100 MBq depending on the used radiotracer, applied volume and weight of the animal.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the developed blood sampling system can be used for in vivo small animal PET studies in rats in a reliable way. The usage of the systems enhances the accuracy of the input curve as handling of small blood samples especially with low activity (as for C-11) is prone to measurement errors. Additionally, the radiation dose of the experimenters can be reduced, as it is not required anymore to continuously draw samples where the personal is in close contact to the radioactive animals and blood.
Comparative Life Cycle Analysis of Conventional and Base-Isolated Buildings
Authors: Cutfield Matthew , Ryan Keri , Ma Quincy
Published: January 2015

This paper presents a case study life cycle analysis of a conventional and base isolated steel braced frame office building. The case study focuses particularly on the effects of moat wall pounding and business interruption using the FEMA P-58 methodology. Analytical results suggest that the overall performance of the base isolated building is far superior to the conventional building but that expected financial losses in the isolated building become significant if structural pounding occurs. The cost-effectiveness of the isolation is found to be particularly sensitive to the ability of businesses to relocate quickly and effectively after a large earthquake.
Impact of Gestational Bisphenol A on Oxidative Stress and Free Fatty Acids: Human Association and Interspecies Animal Testing Studies
Authors: Veiga-Lopez Almudena , Pennathur Subramaniam , Kannan Kurunthachalam , Patisaul Heather B. , Dolinoy Dana C. , Zeng Lixia , Padmanabhan Vasantha
Published: January 2015

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high production volume chemical and an endocrine disruptor. Developmental exposures to BPA have been linked to adult metabolic pathologies, but the pathways through which these disruptions occur remain unknown. This is a comprehensive interspecies association vs causal study to evaluate risks posed by prenatal BPA exposure and to facilitate discovery of biomarkers of relevance to BPA toxicity. Samples from human pregnancies during the first trimester and at term, as well as fetal and/or adult samples from prenatally BPA-treated sheep, rats, and mice, were collected to assess the impact of BPA on free fatty acid and oxidative stress dynamics. Mothers exposed to higher BPA during early to midpregnancy and their matching term cord samples displayed increased 3-nitrotyrosine (NY), a marker of nitrosative stress. Maternal samples had increased palmitic acid, which was positively correlated with NY. Sheep fetuses and adult sheep and rats prenatally exposed to a human-relevant exposure dose of BPA showed increased systemic nitrosative stress. The strongest effect of BPA on circulating free fatty acids was observed in adult mice in the absence of increased oxidative stress. This is the first multispecies study that combines human association and animal causal studies assessing the risk posed by prenatal BPA exposure to metabolic health. This study provides evidence of the induction of nitrosative stress by prenatal BPA in both the mother and fetus at time of birth and is thus supportive of the use of maternal NY as a biomarker for offspring health.
Loss of Methylation at GNAS Exon A/B Is Associated With Increased Intrauterine Growth
Authors: Bréhin Anne-Claire , Colson Cindy , Maupetit-Méhouas Stéphanie , Grybek Virginie , Richard Nicolas , Linglart Agnès , Kottler Marie-Laure , Jüppner Harald
Published: January 2015

Context:

GNAS is one of few genetic loci that undergo allelic-specific methylation resulting in the parent-specific expression of at least four different transcripts. Due to monoallelic expression, heterozygous GNAS mutations affecting either paternally or maternally derived transcripts cause different forms of pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP), including autosomal-dominant PHP type Ib (AD-PHP1B) associated with loss of methylation (LOM) at exon A/B alone or sporadic PHP1B (sporPHP1B) associated with broad GNAS methylation changes. Similar to effects other imprinted genes have on early development, we recently observed severe intrauterine growth retardation in newborns, later diagnosed with pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism (PPHP) because of paternal GNAS loss-of-function mutations.

Objectives:

This study aimed to determine whether GNAS methylation abnormalities affect intrauterine growth.

Patients and Methods:

Birth parameters were collected of patients who later developed sporPHP1B or AD-PHP1B, and of their healthy siblings. Comparisons were made to newborns affected by PPHP or PHP1A.

Results:

As newborns, AD-PHP1B patients were bigger than their healthy siblings and well above the reference average; increased sizes were particularly evident if the mothers were unaffected carriers of STX16 deletions. SporPHP1B newborns were slightly above average for weight and length, but their overgrowth was less pronounced than that of AD-PHP1B newborns from unaffected mothers.

Conclusion:

LOM at GNAS exon A/B due to maternal STX16 deletions and the resulting biallelic A/B expression are associated with enhanced fetal growth. These findings are distinctly different from those of PPHP patients with paternal GNAS exons 2–13 mutations, whose birth parameters are almost 4.5 z-scores below those of AD-PHP1B patients born to healthy mothers.
Identifiability of a Coalescent-Based Population Tree Model
Authors: RoyChoudhury Arindam
Published: January 2015

Identifiability of evolutionary tree models has been a recent topic of discussion and some models have been shown to be nonidentifiable. A coalescent-based rooted population tree model, originally proposed by Nielsenet al.(1998), has been used by many authors in the last few years and is a simple tool to accurately model the changes in allele frequencies in the tree. However, the identifiability of this model has never been proven. Here we prove this model to be identifiable by showing that the model parameters can be expressed as functions of the probability distributions of subsamples, assuming that there are at least two (haploid) individuals sampled from each population. This a step toward proving the consistency of the maximum likelihood estimator of the population tree based on this model.
Limiting Behavior of the Target-Dependent Stochastic Sequential Assignment Problem
Authors: Baharian Golshid , Jacobson Sheldon H.
Published: January 2015

The stochastic sequential assignment problem assigns distinct workers to sequentially arriving tasks with stochastic parameters. In this paper the assignments are performed so as to minimize the threshold probability, which is the probability of the long-run reward per task failing to achieve a target value (threshold). As the number of tasks approaches infinity, the problem is studied for independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) tasks with a known distribution function and also for tasks that are derived from r distinct unobservable distributions (governed by a Markov chain). Stationary optimal policies are presented, which simultaneously minimize the threshold probability and achieve the optimal long-run expected reward per task.
Random Fields with Pólya Correlation Structure
Authors: Finlay Richard , Seneta Eugene
Published: January 2015

We construct random fields with Pólya-type autocorrelation function and dampened Pólya cross-correlation function. The marginal distribution of the random fields may be taken as any infinitely divisible distribution with finite variance, and the random fields are fully characterized in terms of their joint characteristic function. This makes available a new class of non-Gaussian random fields with flexible correlation structure for use in modeling and estimation.
On the Time Spent in the Red by a Refracted Lévy Risk Process
Authors: Renaud Jean-François
Published: January 2015

In this paper we introduce an insurance ruin model with an adaptive premium rate, henceforth referred to as restructuring/refraction, in which classical ruin and bankruptcy are distinguished. In this model the premium rate is increased as soon as the wealth process falls into the red zone and is brought back to its regular level when the wealth process recovers. The analysis is focused mainly on the time a refracted Lévy risk process spends in the red zone (analogous to the duration of the negative surplus). Building on results from [11] and [16], we identify the distribution of various functionals related to occupation times of refracted spectrally negative Lévy processes. For example, these results are used to compute both the probability of bankruptcy and the probability of Parisian ruin in this model with restructuring.
The Containment Condition and Adapfail Algorithms
Authors: Łatuszyński Krzysztof , Rosenthal Jeffrey S.
Published: January 2015

This short note investigates convergence of adaptive Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms, i.e. algorithms which modify the Markov chain update probabilities on the fly. We focus on the containment condition introduced Roberts and Rosenthal (2007). We show that if the containment condition is not
satisfied, then the algorithm will perform very poorly. Specifically, with positive probability, the adaptive algorithm will be asymptotically less efficient then any nonadaptive ergodic MCMC algorithm. We call such algorithms AdapFail, and conclude that they should not be used.
Mathematically guided approaches to distinguish models of periodic patterning
Authors: Hiscock Tom W. , Megason Sean G.
Published: January 2015

How periodic patterns are generated is an open question. A number of mechanisms have been proposed – most famously, Turing's reaction-diffusion model. However, many theoretical and experimental studies focus on the Turing mechanism while ignoring other possible mechanisms. Here, we use a general model of periodic patterning to show that different types of mechanism (molecular, cellular, mechanical) can generate qualitatively similar final patterns. Observation of final patterns is therefore not sufficient to favour one mechanism over others. However, we propose that a mathematical approach can help to guide the design of experiments that can distinguish between different mechanisms, and illustrate the potential value of this approach with specific biological examples.
A computational model for the coordination of neural progenitor self-renewal and differentiation through Hes1 dynamics
Authors: Pfeuty Benjamin
Published: January 2015

Proper tissue development requires that stem/progenitor cells precisely coordinate cell division and differentiation in space and time. Notch-Hes1 intercellular signaling, which affects both differentiation and cell cycle progression and directs cell fate decisions at various developmental stages in many cell types, is central to this process. This study explored whether the pattern of connections among the cell cycle regulatory module, the Notch effector Hes1 and the proneural factor Ngn2 could explain salient aspects of cell fate determination in neural progenitors. A mathematical model that includes mutual interactions between Hes1, Ngn2 and G1-phase regulators was constructed and simulated at the single- and two-cell levels. By differentially regulating G1-phase progression, Hes1 and Ngn2 are shown to induce two contrasting cell cycle arrest states in early and late G1, respectively. Indeed, steady Hes1 overexpression promotes reversible quiescence by downregulating activators of G0/G1 exit and Ngn2. Ngn2 also downregulates activators of G0/G1 exit, but cooperates with Cip/Kip proteins to prevent G1/S transit, whereby it promotes G1-phase lengthening and, ultimately, contributes to reinforcing an irreversible late G1 arrest coincident with terminal differentiation. In this scheme, Hes1 oscillation in single cells is able to maintain a labile proliferation state in dynamic balance with two competing cell fate outputs associated with Hes1-mediated and Ngn2-mediated cell cycle arrest states. In Delta/Notch-connected cells, Hes1 oscillations and a lateral inhibition mechanism combine to establish heterogeneous Hes1, Ngn2 and cell cycle dynamics between proliferating neural progenitors, thereby increasing the chances of asymmetric cell fate decisions and improving the reliability of commitment to differentiation.
Ciliary proteins Bbs8 and Ift20 promote planar cell polarity in the cochlea
Authors: May-Simera Helen L. , Petralia Ronald S. , Montcouquiol Mireille , Wang Ya-Xian , Szarama Katherine B. , Liu Yun , Lin Weichun , Deans Michael R. , Pazour Gregory J. , Kelley Matthew W.
Published: January 2015

Primary cilia have been implicated in the generation of planar cell polarity (PCP). However, variations in the severity of polarity defects in different cilia mutants, coupled with recent demonstrations of non-cilia-related actions of some cilia genes, make it difficult to determine the basis of these polarity defects. To address this issue, we evaluated PCP defects in cochlea from a selection of mice with mutations in cilia-related genes. Results indicated notable PCP defects, including mis-oriented hair cell stereociliary bundles, in Bbs8 and Ift20 single mutants that are more severe than in other cilia gene knockouts. In addition, deletion of either Bbs8 or Ift20 results in disruptions in asymmetric accumulation of the core PCP molecule Vangl2 in cochlear cells, suggesting a role for Bbs8 and/or Ift20, possibly upstream of core PCP asymmetry. Consistent with this, co-immunoprecipitation experiments indicate direct interactions of Bbs8 and Ift20 with Vangl2. We observed localization of Bbs and Ift proteins to filamentous actin as well as microtubules. This could implicate these molecules in selective trafficking of membrane proteins upstream of cytoskeletal reorganization, and identifies new roles for cilia-related proteins in cochlear PCP.
Reaching out – the many faces of science outreach
Authors: Vicente Catarina
Published: January 2015

Summary: This Spotlight discusses diverse ways in which scientists can engage with the wider community to further the public understanding of science, and encourage individuals to get involved.
The Application of Lean Principles in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)
Authors: Aljunaidi Alla , Ankrak Samuel
Published: January 2015

Proponents of Lean Manufacturing (lean) claim that the benefits of implementing this system are not restricted to the automotive industry where lean originated.  On the other hand, opponents of lean argue against its claimed universality and stress that even within the automotive industry mass production still prevails.  This research aimed at examining this claimed universality by investigating whether lean is applicable to the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Industry.  The research was carried out via qualitative, multiple case-studies of three different Saudi Arabia FMCG operations including two confirmatory interviews, one with a US FMCG manufacturer and another with a UK manufacturer.  Data was collected via semi-structured interviews with 22 participants.The research concluded that the same types of waste identified by lean in the automotive industry are present in the FMCG industry, suggesting that lean could be implemented in FMCG operations.  The study also identified the conditions required for successful implementation and consequently developed a conceptual framework for implementing lean in the FMCG industry.DOI: 10.12660/joscmv7n2p1-25URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/joscmv7n2p1-25
DETERMINANTS OF SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN: an analysis of mensuration models of Pressures and Socio-environmental Practices
Authors: Abdala Etienne Cardoso , Barbieri José Carlos
Published: January 2015

Sustainability became an important topic concerning the management of the supply chain. Therefore, this study aims to understand the determinant factors of the pressures, and environmental practices on the management of the sustainable supply chain, from the development of two measurement models: 1) pressures and 2) socio-environmental practices accomplished by the companies. The methodology was based on a survey application in processing industries of Minas Gerais state. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. DOI: 10.12660/joscmv7n2p110-123URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/joscmv7n2p110-123
Sociological Model of Business Space of a Russian Businessman. Part I
Authors: Орлова  , Orlova L.
Published: January 2015

The paper analyzes the regional social self-organization processes going on in the of small and medium-sized businesses environment of present-day Russia, particularly the actual business relationships and connections, ensuring existence and development of business, as well as establishment of regional businessmen associations in the fi elds of their regional economic activities. In considering the regional dimension of these processes, entrepreneurship is viewed as the new social environment where the processes of subject and spatial self-organization take place.
Udoteaceae (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) no litoral do estado da Bahia, Brasil
Authors: Do Nascimento Santos Gabriel , De Castro Nunes José Marcos
Published: January 2015

The Udoteaceae are ubiquitous and ecologically important in tropical marine ecosystems. Apart from primary producers, calcified representatives contribute to the construction and sedimentation of reefs. In this study, we present the taxonomic treatment of Udoteaceae from Bahia coast. Based on collected material and on material deposited in the main Brazilian herbaria, 10 taxa, distributed in three genera, were recognized: Boodleopsis (B. pusilla), Penicillus (P. capitatus, including three forms), and Udotea (4 species, 2 varieties, and 2 forms). Identification keys for the taxa are presented, along with descriptions, illustrations, comparisons with related taxa, and distribution maps for species in Bahia.
Flora da Bahia: Malpighiaceae 2 - Heteropterys
Authors: Pessoa Cleiton , Costa Jorge Antonio Silva , Amorim André Márcio
Published: January 2015

A floristic survey of the genus Heteropterys from Bahia state, Brazil, is presented. A total of 43 species of Heteropterys were recognized, among which H. cochleosperma, H. macradena, H. syringifolia and H. trigoniifolia represents new records for the state. Eleven species are considered endemics to this state and six are listed in the Red Book of Flora of Brazil. The treatment includes an identification key, descriptions and comments on all taxa, as well as illustrations and distribution maps of species in Bahia.
Flora da Bahia: Asteraceae – Piptocarpha (Vernonieae: Pitpotcarphinae)
Authors: Zugaib Maria , Amorim André Márcio
Published: January 2015

A floristic survey of the Piptocarpha (Asteraceae) from Bahia State, Brazil, is presented. Twelve species were recognized, two of which are trees and ten are scandent shrubs. Piptocarpha notata represents a new record for the state, and P. gustavo-valerioana and P. riedelii are endemic. An identification key, morphological descriptions, taxonomic notes, geographic distribution maps and illustrations of the species are given.
Epigenetic regulation in stem cell development, cell fate conversion, and reprogramming
Authors: Ohbo Kazuyuki , Tomizawa Shin-ichi
Published: January 2015

Stem cells are identified classically by anin vivotransplantation assay plus additional characterization, such as marker analysis, linage-tracing andin vitro/ex vivodifferentiation assays. Stem cell lines have been derived,in vitro, from adult tissues, the inner cell mass (ICM), epiblast, and male germ stem cells, providing intriguing insight into stem cell biology, plasticity, heterogeneity, metastable state, and the pivotal point at which stem cells irreversibly differentiate to non-stem cells. During the past decade, strategies for manipulating cell fate have revolutionized our understanding about the basic concept of cell differentiation: stem cell lines can be established by introducing transcription factors, as with the case for iPSCs, revealing some of the molecular interplay of key factors during the course of phenotypic changes. In addition to de-differentiation approaches for establishing stem cells, another method has been developed whereby induced expression of certain transcription factors and/or micro RNAs artificially converts differentiated cells from one committed lineage to another; notably, these cells need not transit through a stem/progenitor state. The molecular cues guiding such cell fate conversion and reprogramming remain largely unknown. As differentiation and de-differentiation are directly linked to epigenetic changes, we overview cell fate decisions, and associated gene and epigenetic regulations.