bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Unusual Presentation of Idiopathic Basal Cell Carcinoma in an 8‐Year‐Old Child
Authors: LANDAU JENNIFER M. , MOODY MEGAN N. , GOLDBERG LEONARD H. , VERGILIS‐KALNER IRENE J.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  We report the unusual case of a young child who developed an idiopathic basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The patient was otherwise healthy, with no history of excessive sun or radiation exposure or any predisposing factors for nonmelanoma skin cancer. This is a rare case that exemplifies the need for pediatricians and dermatologists to be aware that BCC may occur in children, even if they have no predisposing factors.
Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: An Unusual Presentation in a 7‐Year‐Old Girl
Authors: Ju Elizabeth , Adigun Chris , Dunphy Cherie , Gold Stuart , Morrell Dean S.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) accounts for 10% to 30% of all childhood lymphomas and approximately 5% of all non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma. ALCL is considered to be a T‐cell non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma that can be divided into two major groups with distinct genetic, immunophenotypic, and clinical behaviors. The first group consists of a spectrum of CD30+ T‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders that include primary cutaneous ALCL (C‐ALCL) and lymphomatoid papulosis. The second group is systemic ALCL (S‐ALCL), which is further divided into two subgroups: anaplastic lymphoma kinase positive (ALK+) and ALK‐negative. Between 30% and 60% of S‐ALCL express ALK, which is usually the result of a t(2;5) translocation that correlates with onset in the first three decades of life, male predominance, and good prognosis. Although morphologically similar, ALK− ALCL shows varied clinical behaviors and immunophenotypes; is commonly seen in older age groups, with a peak incidence in the sixth decade of life with no preference as to sex; and has an overall poorer prognosis. We present a case of CD30+, ALK− S‐ALCL in a 7‐year‐old girl.
Malakoplakia
Authors: Rubinson Rebeca , Mendes Veronica S. , Sanchez Graciela , Costantini Silvia
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Malakoplakia is a rare, chronic disease with pleomorphic presentation. It occurs most frequently in immunocompromised patients. It is believed that this entity represents an unusual response to bacterial infection in which macrophages fail to phagocytose them properly. It involves many organs, particularly the urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. It is uncommon on the skin and less common in children. The diagnosis is usually based on histopathologic findings.
Systemic Treatment of Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis with Azathioprine and Mycophenolate Mofetil
Authors: Waxweiler Weston T. , Agans Robert , Morrell Dean S.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Severe forms of atopic dermatitis (AD) cause significant morbidity in vulnerable pediatric populations and necessitate treatment with systemic therapy. The existing literature concerning the treatment of severe pediatric AD with azathioprine (AZ) and mycophenolate mofetil (MM) is sparse. The purpose of this case series is to examine the use of these two drugs in the treatment of severe pediatric AD. Medical records of 28 pediatric patients with AD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill pediatric dermatology clinic treated using these two drugs were analyzed for laboratory values, thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) levels, symptoms, infections, and other relevant data. Patients were also contacted via the telephone to ascertain outcomes and any missing data. Treatment outcomes were scored into three categories: significant improvement, some improvement, and no improvement. AZ dosing was correlated to TPMT levels successfully, with comparable levels of improvement in the heterozygous and homozygous wild‐type groups. Absolute eosinophil count corresponded to AD activity and treatment response across both treatment modalities in 18 of 26 (69%) patients. Seventeen of 28 (61%) patients treated with AZ and eight of 12 (66%) treated with MM reported significant improvement. We had lower rates of laboratory abnormalities and side effects with MM than with AZ but similar rates of cutaneous infections. Treatment outcomes did not appear to differ with race, sex, or TPMT level. We experienced success with AZ and MM in the treatment of severe pediatric AD. Coordinating treatment to each patient’s unique morbidities is the best way to choose systemic treatments.
Chronic Relapsing Urticaria Confined to Injection Sites of Upper Arms
Authors: Fröhlich Sylvia , Geidel Christian , Lauener Roger , Ring Johannes , Möhrenschlager Matthias
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  New ongoing urticarial lesions confined to former injection sites of vaccination and allergy immunotherapy were observed in an 8‐year‐old boy. This finding can be best explained as an isotopic response phenomenon.
Evaluation of Left Atrial Function in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease by Two‐Dimensional Strain and Strain Rate Imaging
Authors: Liu Ying‐ying , Xie Ming‐xing , Xu Jin‐feng , Wang Xin‐fang , Lv Qing , Lu Xiao‐fang , Wang Jing , He Lin , Fang Ling‐yun , Zhang Jing
Published: October 2011

Background: Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in patients with coronary artery disease is shown by strain and strain rate imaging. However, left atrium (LA) function in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) has not been assessed by this method. Methods and Results: In 34 CAD patients, including 17 patients with enlarged LA (LA diameter ≤ 4.0 cm) and 17 with normal‐size LA (LA diameter ≤ 4.0 cm), two‐dimensional strain echocardiographic imaging (2DSE) was performed. Twenty healthy subjects as a control group were included. Both conventional parameters and strain parameters, such as LA peak systolic strain (LAs S/SR), preatrial contraction strain (LAa S), peak systolic (LAs SR), early diastolic strain rate (LAe SR) and late diastolic strain rate (LAa SR), were measured. Conventional parameters were abnormal in CAD patients with enlarged LA (ELA), but there were no significant differences between CAD with normal‐size left atrium (NLA) and control groups. LAs S/SR and LAe SR were lower in patients than in normal controls, and were even lower in CAD‐ELA group (P < 0.05). LAa S/SR were lower in CAD patients with ELA (P < 0.05), but without a significant difference between CAD‐NLA and control groups. A significant correlation was observed between LAs S/SR and LA emptying fraction (r = 0.85, P < 0.05; r = 0.72, P < 0.05, respectively). LAa S/SR related well to LA ejection fraction (r = 0.68, P < 0.05; r = 0.61, P < 0.05, respectively). LAs SR was most accurate in identifying both CAD patients with NLA from controls and CAD patients from controls (area under the curve: 0.91; 0.95, respectively). Conclusions: LA diastolic dysfunction occurs prior to LA systolic dysfunction in CAD patients, and LAs SR is the most accurate index in identifying patients with CAD. (Echocardiography 2011;28:1095‐1103)
Myocardial Performance Index and Atrial Ejection Force in Patients with Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Shabanian Reza , Aboozari Mina , Kiani Abdolrazagh , Seifirad Soroush , Zamani Gholamreza , Nahalimoghaddam Ali , Kocharian Armen
Published: October 2011

Background: Progressive movement limitation in patients with Duchenne's muscular dystrophy (DMD) may mask the onset of cardiac involvement. We aimed to determine whether myocardial performance index (MPI), either by conventional Doppler (CD) or tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), could detect subclinical myocardial dysfunction in DMD patients. Furthermore, we assessed the atrial ejection force (AEF) to evaluate possible existence of latent diastolic dysfunction. Method: Twenty DMD patients without signs and symptoms of cardiac impairment and 20 age matched control group enrolled into the study. MPI for right ventricle and left ventricle (LV) was assessed with CD and TDI for comparison. Results: No significant difference was detected in ejection fraction, fractional shortening, and AEF between two groups. CD derived MPI was higher for both ventricles in the patients (P < 0.0001). Moreover, the TDI derived MPI were significantly higher in the patients in mitral, tricuspid, and septal views (P < 0.0001). A significant decrease of mitral myocardial systolic wave velocity was detected in the patients, in favor of early involvement of the posterobasal LV myocardium. All acceleration and deceleration times’ values for the late mitral inflow were higher whereas the rates were significantly lower in the patients. There was no significant difference between AEF of both groups. Conclusion: MPI might be a useful parameter for early detection of occult cardiac dysfunction in DMD patients when other simple and standard echocardiographic parameters are within the normal limits. Lack of atrial contribution in LV filling due to atrial contractile dysfunction may play a role in DMD cardiac dysfunction. (Echocardiography 2011;28:1088‐1094)
Congenitally Corrected Transposition of the Great Arteries with Severely Stenotic Bicuspid Aortic Valve in an Adult: A Case Report
Authors: Pino Paolo Giuseppe , Pergolini Amedeo , Zampi Giordano , Calicchia Angela , Chialastri Claudia , Orsini Francesca Moschella , Fini Fabiola , Buffa Vitaliano , Minardi Giovanni
Published: October 2011

Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (CCTGA) is a rare disease accounting for 0.5–1.4% of patients with congenital heart disease. In this congenital cardiopathy, the left atrium is connected to the right ventricle, from which the aorta stems. We present a case of an adult with CCTGA associated with aortic stenosis and bicuspid aortic valve—an association not yet described to our knowledge. (Echocardiography 2012;29:E13‐E15)
Utility of the Posterior to Anterior Mitral Valve Leaflets Length Ratio in Prediction of Outcome of Percutaneous Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty
Authors: Mahfouz Ragab A.
Published: October 2011

Background: Scoring of mitral stenosis (MS) severity is very important for selection of patients for balloon mitral valvuloplasty (BMV). Objective: We propose a novel yet simple, independent parameter of MS severity based on the posterior mitral valve leaflet to anterior mitral valve leaflet length ratio (PMVL/AMVL length ratio). It could be a useful predictor to outcome of BMV. Subjects and methods: A total of 106 patients (mean age 29.1 ± 8.6 years) had MS with mitral valve score of eight or less. The length of anterior mitral valve leaflet and posterior mitral valve leaflet were measured. Patients were classified into group with ratio ≥1/2 and group of ratio <1/2. Eighty‐five healthy control subjects were studied. Results: Patients with PMVL/AMVL ratio ≥1/2 post‐BMV had lower transmitral gradients (4.5 ± 3.1 mmHg vs. 9.7 ± 2.1 mmHg, P < 0.002) and greater mitral valve area (MVA) (2.09 ± 0.3 cm2 vs. 1.5 ± 0.2 cm2, P < 0.001), lower pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) (23.8 ± 14.3 mmHg vs. 34.2 ± 12.5 mmHg, P < 0.001), left atrial pressure (10.2 ± 6.7 mmHg vs. 18.9 ± 6.4 mmHg, P < 0.001), and lower incidence of de novo or worsening of mild mitral regurgitation (MR; 1.64% vs. 8.9%, 0% vs. 6.6%, P < 0.001). PMVL/AMVL length ratio was positively correlated with post‐BMV MVA (r = 0.69, P < 0.002), PASP (r = 0.592, P < 0.003), and negatively correlated with incidence of de novo or worsening of mild MR (r =–0.78, –0.93, P < 0.001). The regression analyses revealed that PMVL/AMVL ratio is the best and a reliable predictor of success and outcome of BMV, hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) 0.12 (0.05–52), P < 0.001. Conclusion: Length ratio of PMVL/AMVL assessment with echocardiography is an excellent simple predictor of post‐BMV mitral valve area and the cardiac events. (Echocardiography 2011;28:1068‐1073)
Microcirculation on a Large Scale: Techniques, Tactics and Relevance of Studying the Microcirculation in Larger Population Samples
Authors: STRAIN W. DAVID , ADINGUPU DAMILOLA D. , SHORE ANGELA C.
Published: October 2011

Please cite this paper as: Strain, Adingupu, and Shore (2012). Microcirculation on a Large Scale: Techniques, Tactics and Relevance of Studying the Microcirculation in Larger Population Samples. Microcirculation 19(1), 37–46.

The role of microcirculatory dysfunction is increasingly being recognized in the etiopathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Whilst the importance of detailed mechanistic studies to determine the exact nature of these disturbances is without question, it was large‐scale population‐based studies that first identified the associations between deranged microvascular perfusion, autoregulation or structure, and subsequent target organ damage. This is the subject of considerable studies to establish whether there is a causal effect in either direction, or simply represents shared risk factors, although it is most likely to be a complex combination of bidirectional interactions. The techniques for investigating microcirculatory function have evolved almost exponentially over the last 75 years: So too have the strategies for investigation. Current epidemiological studies are focusing on attempting to untangle the inter‐relationship between risk factors and pathological mechanisms to attempt to determine whether these represent therapeutic targets or simple markers of unmeasured risk. We plan to review the techniques used for these population‐based studies, the advances made, and the clinical implications derived.
Statistical Learning Is Related to Reading Ability in Children and Adults
Authors: Arciuli Joanne , Simpson Ian C.
Published: October 2011

There is little empirical evidence showing a direct link between a capacity for statistical learning (SL) and proficiency with natural language. Moreover, discussion of the role of SL in language acquisition has seldom focused on literacy development. Our study addressed these issues by investigating the relationship between SL and reading ability in typically developing children and healthy adults. We tested SL using visually presented stimuli within a triplet learning paradigm and examined reading ability by administering the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT‐4; Wilkinson & Robertson, 2006). A total of 38 typically developing children (mean age of 9;5 years, range 6;4–12;5) and 37 healthy adults (mean age of 21 years, range 18–34) were assessed. In children, SL was significantly related to reading ability. Importantly, this relationship was independent of grade and also age. The adult data, too, revealed that SL was significantly related to reading ability. A regression analysis of the combined child and adult data revealed that SL accounted for a unique amount of variance in reading ability, after age and attention had been taken into consideration. For the first time, this study provides empirical evidence that a capacity for more effective SL is related to higher reading ability in the general population.
Epigenetic dysregulation of GATA1 is involved in myelodysplastic syndromes dyserythropoiesis
Authors: Hopfer Olaf , Nolte Florian , Mossner Maximilan , Komor Martina , Kmetsch Anke , Benslasfer Ouidad , Reißmann Monika , Nowak Daniel , Hoelzer Dieter , Thiel Eckhard , Hofmann Wolf‐Karsten
Published: October 2011

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are characterized by dyserythropoiesis resulting in anemia. This pathological hallmark is incompletely understood. Notch signaling has been linked to impaired erythropoietic and megakaryopoietic development of CD34+ progenitor cells, but its role in MDS is unclear. We have analyzed the transcriptional activity of Notch pathway elements and its association with the key erythroid factor globin transcription factor 1 (GATA1) and the apoptosis regulatory gene B‐cell lymphoma‐xl (BCLxl) in MDS. The methylation of GATA1 erythroid promoter CpG dinucleotides flanking cis‐regulatory elements, including an N‐box suppressor binding site for HES1 and a GATA‐box binding site, was examined in normal and MDS erythropoiesis. We have generated a kinetic in vitro model of MDS erythropoiesis using CD34+ bone marrow cells from healthy donors (n = 7) and patients with MDS (low risk: RA/n = 6, RARS/n = 3; high risk: RAEB/n = 4, RAEB‐T/n = 2). RNA expression of GATA1, BCLxl, DLK1, Notch1, HES1, and HERP2 was measured by real‐time RT‐PCR (qPCR). DNA methylation at seven CpG dinucleotides of the GATA1 gene promoter was quantitatively analyzed by pyrosequencing of bisulfite‐treated genomic DNA at any specific time point. For the Notch pathway elements, no conclusive expression differences were found between MDS and normal erythropoiesis. But we found steadily up‐regulated RNA expression of GATA1 and of BCLxl during late normal erythropoietic differentiation. In contrast, during MDS, erythropoiesis a loss of typical up‐regulation of GATA1 and BCLxl was observed. Hypermethylation of CpG dinucleotides flanking the repressor HES1 binding site within the 5′ region of GATA1 was detected particularly during late MDS erythropoiesis. Interestingly, decremental GATA1 promotor methylation values were seen during normal erythropoiesis matching GATA1 RNA up‐regulation. Our data show that the critical erythropoietic transcription factor GATA1 as well as the antiapoptotic molecule BCLxl fails to be normally up‐regulated during MDS erythropoiesis. The higher residual 5′‐GATA1 methylation values in MDS erythropoiesis but decremental loss thereof in normal erythropoiesis suggest a gene dose effect for GATA1 during erythropoiesis being finely tuned by CpG methylation. Its dysregulation may contribute to the ineffective erythropoiesis observed in MDS.
Homogenous bonding – case report and 18‐year follow up
Authors: Moura Lúcia Fátima Almeida Deus , Lima Marina Deus Moura , Leopoldino Valéria Deus , Moura Marcoeli Silva , Simplício Alexandre Henrique Melo , Martins Josilda Floriano Melo
Published: October 2011

Abstract –  Fracture of the anterior teeth by trauma is the most frequent type of injury affecting the permanent dentition, especially the maxillary central incisors. When the fragment is not available or its use is not recommended, donated extracted teeth (homogenous bonding) can be used. The aim of this paper is to report the successful 18‐year follow up of a maxillary central incisor fracture in which homogenous bonding was performed.
Assessment of orofacial characteristics and oral pathology associated with cri‐du‐chat syndrome
Authors: Rodríguez‐Caballero Á , Torres‐Lagares D , Yáñez‐Vico R‐M , Gutiérrez‐Pérez J‐L , Machuca‐Portillo G
Published: October 2011

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 191–197

Objective:  To obtain a deeper insight into the difficulties individuals with cri‐du‐chat syndrome experience by means of the analysis of the most common features and oral pathology observed in the subjects enrolled in the study.

Subjects and Methods:  Intra‐oral and extra‐oral features of a total of 33 patients with cri‐du‐chat syndrome (the larger sample so far analyzed) through their clinical and photographic examination. Models, orthopantomographies, and teleradiographies have been collected to establish a pattern as accurate as possible of the oral pathology associated with these patients.

Results:  The present descriptive study shows that patients with cri‐du‐chat syndrome present with a series of orofacial features such as mandibular retrognathism, high palate, and variable malocclusion, more commonly anterior open‐bite. Most patients also present with perioral muscle relaxation with labial incompetence and short philtrum. As regards oral pathology, these patients suffer dental erosions provoked by gastroesophageal reflux and attritions because of intense day‐and‐night bruxism.

Conclusion:  The odontologists’ familiarity with the orofacial pathology associated with cri‐du‐chat syndrome and with the specific needs such disorder conveys should improve the quality of the buccodental treatment these professionals may offer to these patients.
Postorthodontic external root resorption is associated with IL1 receptor antagonist gene variations
Authors: Iglesias‐Linares A , Yañez‐Vico R , Ballesta‐Mudarra S , Ortiz‐Ariza E , Ortega‐Rivera H , Mendoza‐Mendoza A , Solano‐Reina E , Perea‐Pérez E
Published: October 2011

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 198–205

Objective:  External apical root resorption (EARR) is a frequent iatrogenic effect of orthodontic treatment. Patients with genetic variants in the interleukin 1 gene have been related to an increased risk of suffering EARR. The objective of this study is to determine whether variants in the interleukin 1 receptor antagonist gene are positively/negatively associated with interleukin 1 gene polymorphisms, particularly in relation to the clinical features of EARR patients.

Materials and Methods:  Genetic screening of 54 orthodontic patients was performed for three polymorphisms (rs1800587, rs1143634 and rs419598) in the IL1 gene cluster. Subjects were divided according to the presence or absence of EARR of more than 2 mm. The genotype distributions and allelic frequencies were calculated by the chi‐square‐test. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals were also calculated.

Results:  A highly significant association was found in the comparative analysis of homozygous subjects [1/1(CC)] for the IL1B gene, resulting in an increased risk of suffering postorthodontic EARR (OR: 3.47; P = 0.027; CI: 95%). While no association was found for the IL1A gene (P = 0.097), subjects who were homozygous [1/1(TT)] for the IL1RN gene were more likely to be affected with EARR (OR: 6.75; P = 0.001; CI: 95%).

Conclusion:  Variations in the interleukin 1 receptor antagonist gene (rs419598) – and not only in the IL1B gene (rs1800587) – are determinants of a predisposition to postorthodontic EARR.
PLASTINATED HEART SLICES AID ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC INTERPRETATION IN THE DOG
Authors: Gómez Alejandro , Del Palacio Josefa F. , Latorre Rafael , Henry Robert W. , Sarriá Ricardo , Albors Octavio López
Published: October 2011

Our aim was to compare plastinated sections of the canine heart with corresponding two‐dimensional (2D) echocardiographic images. Thirteen dog hearts were fixed by dilation and then processed by the S10 silicon plastination method (Biodur®). Two dogs without evidence of cardiac disease were imaged using 2D echocardiography so as to obtain a complete series of the standard right and left parasternal images, which were compared with corresponding plastinated slices obtained by knife sectioning of the hearts. The plastinated slices revealed the internal anatomy of the heart with great detail and were particularly useful to display the spatial relationship between complex anatomic structures. The plastinated slices corresponded accurately with the echocardiographic images. Because of the dilation of the right heart during the fixation process, it was not possible to obtain plastinated specimens in ventricular systole. This paper may be a reference atlas for assisting 2D echocardiography interpretation.
Characterization of an oxidoreductase from the arylamine N‐acetyltransferase operon in Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Evangelopoulos Dimitrios , Cronin Nora , Daviter Tina , Sim Edith , Keep Nicholas H. , Bhakta Sanjib
Published: October 2011

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the most successful bacterial pathogen, causes tuberculosis, a disease that still causes more than 2 million deaths per year. Arylamine N‐acetyltransferase is an enzyme that is conserved in most Mycobacterium spp. The nat gene belongs to an operon that is important for the intracellular survival of M. tuberculosis within macrophages. The nat operon in Mycobacterium smegmatis and other fast‐growing mycobacterial species has a unique organization containing genes with uncharacterized function. Here, we describe the biochemical, biophysical and structural characterization of the MSMEG_0308 gene product (MS0308) of the M. smegmatis nat operon. While characterizing the function of MS0308, we validated the oxidoreductase property; however, we found that the enzyme was not utilizing dihydrofolate as its substrate, hence we first report that MS0308 is not a dihydrofolate reductase, as annotated in the genome. The structure of this oxidoreductase was solved at 2.0 Å in complex with the cofactor NADPH and has revealed the hydrophobic pocket where the endogenous substrate binds.

Database

The structural information for the MS0308 oxidoreductase has been deposited to the Protein Data Bank under accession number 2XW7.

Structured digital abstract

 MS0308 and MS0308 bind by x‐ray crystallography (View interaction)

 MS0308 and MS0308 physically interact by molecular sieving (View interaction)
The Place of Comics in the Modern Hindu Imagination
Authors: McLain Karline
Published: October 2011

This article provides an overview of the birth of comics in India; a discussion of the available scholarship to date, which has focused largely on India’s most prominent comic book series, Amar Chitra Katha, and its connections to classical Hindu mythology and modern Hindu nationalist ideology; a roundup of recent developments in Indian comics since the creation of Amar Chitra Katha; and briefly offers some suggestions for further research.
Christianity and Human Trafficking
Authors: Zimmerman Yvonne C.
Published: October 2011

Christian involvement with advocacy and activism on human trafficking, an umbrella category that refers to the variety of processes by which individuals become enslaved, has proliferated during the last 15 years. This essay briefly introduces the topic of human trafficking, and provides an overview of three social movements that set important historical precedents for Christian anti‐trafficking activism in the present: 19th century abolitionist movements, late 19th‐ and early 20th‐century social purity movements, and the late 20th century religious freedom movement. Next, I explore two of the anti‐trafficking frameworks that underlie much Christian anti‐trafficking activism and advocacy in the U.S., noting their different assumptions about freedom and slavery. While Christians are largely of one mind that human trafficking is wrong, the strategies that they use and the ends they hope to accomplish are varied and even conflicting.
The Revision and Expansion of Self‐Theory through Preparedness
Authors: Carroll Patrick J. , McCaslin Michael J. , Norman Greg J.
Published: October 2011

The present paper examines the psychological pathways by which accumulating experiences of possible self‐revision ultimately lead to revision of the core selves that define a broader personal narrative. In so doing, we expand the notion of naïve ‘self‐theories’ by identifying self‐serving attributions and possible selves as critical components that extend or undermine the core self‐theories of a unique personal narrative written (and revised) over a lifetime. Ultimately, we advance preparedness as the motivational force that drives the road from possible to core self‐revision over time.
Youth Identity Formation: Contemporary Identity Work
Authors: Best Amy
Published: October 2011

The study of youth identity and its formations today is diffuse and widely expansive, charted across a variety of disciplines, including Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, Education, History, English, and Cultural Studies. This review essay is largely concerned with youth identity formation as a socially bound process as understood by sociologists. I sketch some of the thematic currents that guide contemporary sociologists’ investigations of youth identity formation as socially constituted process, and some of its exemplars. I highlight two conceptual framings of note: (a) youth identity formation as ‘project’ captured in the concept of ‘identity work’ and (b) youth identity formation as historically contingent phenomenon shaped by changes to the life course and changes in conceptions of the self in late modernity.
The Biosociology of Solidarity
Authors: Kalkhoff Will , Dippong Joseph , Gregory Stanford W.
Published: October 2011

For well over a century, sociologists have directed considerable attention to understanding and explaining the processes that produce social solidarity – the feeling of interpersonal connectedness that binds members of society together. Despite the centrality of solidarity to sociological thought, many sociologists remain unaware of the biosocial processes and mechanisms that create and sustain it. We espouse a biosociological viewpoint, which illuminates solidarity as a complex and fascinating interplay between biological and social elements. In this paper we discuss three important advances within the field of neuroscience that point to exciting new avenues of research for sociologists: (i) the discovery of mirror neurons, (ii) developments in the understanding of brain plasticity, and (iii) increased appreciation of the role of non‐conscious processes in social interaction. Additionally, we discuss ongoing basic and applied research to demonstrate how sociologists can capitalize on recent scientific developments to advance their own research agendas.

VIDEO ABSTRACT ‐ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Is9de_ajheM&hd=1
Mixed Methods Research in Marriage and Family Therapy: A Content Analysis
Authors: Gambrel Laura Eubanks , Butler VI John L.
Published: October 2011

Considering mixed methods research is gaining reputability in the marriage and family therapy field (Research methods in family therapy, Guilford, 2005), we conducted a mixed methods content analysis to examine the prevalence and quality of published mixed and multimethod research during the past 10 years in eight prominent MFT journals (N = 32). Our purpose was to determine the characteristics of studies that utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods, the themes of the rationales for combining methods, and their respective topics of study. We found 16 mixed methods articles, many of which used surveys and interviews, focused on the process of therapy, and did not discuss their methodology as mixed. We encourage authors of mixed methods studies to explicitly define design types, to establish a clear rationale for the combination of methods, to state how qualitative and quantitative methods and data were mixed, and to use theory effectively.
On Optimal Expediting Policy for Supply Systems with Uncertain Lead‐Times
Authors: Kouvelis Panos , Tang Sammi Y.
Published: October 2011

We examine the role of expediting in dealing with lead‐time uncertainties associated with global supply chains of “functional products” (high volume, low demand uncertainty goods). In our developed stylized model, a retailer sources from a supplier with uncertain lead‐time to meet his stable and known demand, and the supply lead‐time is composed of two random duration stages. At the completion time of the first stage, the retailer has the option to expedite a portion of the replenishment order via an alternative faster supply mode. We characterize the optimal expediting policy in terms of if and how much of the order to expedite and explore comparative statics on the optimal policy to better understand the effects of changes in the cost parameters and lead‐time properties. We also study how the expediting option affects the retailer's decisions on the replenishment order (time and size of order placement). We observe that with the expediting option the retailer places larger orders closer to the start of the selling season, thus having this option serve as a substitute for the safety lead‐time and allowing him to take increased advantages of economies of scale. Finally we extend the basic model by looking at correlated lead‐time stages and more than two random lead‐time stages.
Effect of STEM Faculty Engagement in the Math and Science Partnership Program
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , McInerney Joseph , Frechtling Joy
Published: October 2011

The article explores the effect of the engagement of university science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) faculty in the Math and Science Partnership program. The findings suggest that K‐12 teachers benefited from the engagement in terms of improved approaches to teaching and learning, increased knowledge of subject matter content, and increased confidence. STEM faculty benefited from new ideas about teaching and learning, insights into research, more knowledge of the K‐12 education system, and a broader understanding of education overall. Student achievement also improved, although direct attribution to faculty involvement is somewhat unclear. Furthermore, in the short run at least, it appears that few benefits extend beyond those faculty who are direct participants, and few systemic changes have been made in institutions of higher education systems.
Comparative Analysis of Two Inquiry Observational Protocols: Striving to Better Understand the Quality of Teacher‐Facilitated Inquiry‐Based Instruction
Authors: Marshall Jeff C. , Smart Julie , Lotter Christine , Sirbu Cristina
Published: October 2011

With inquiry being one of the central tenets of the national and most state standards, it is imperative that we have a solid means to measure the quality of inquiry‐based instruction being led in classrooms. Many instruments are available and used for this purpose, but many are either invalid or too global. This study sought to compare two observational protocols: Electronic Quality of Inquiry Protocol (EQUIP) and Reformed Teacher Observation Protocol (RTOP) with regard to reliability, validity, and utility associated with inquiry‐based instruction. Analyses included studying item reliability, inter‐rater reliability, factor analysis, correlation, and multiple regression of protocol items within the instruments and between the instruments. General findings suggest that both instruments have high item reliability and are effective measures in both math and science classrooms; EQUIP showed higher inter‐rater reliability and seems to be more valid for measuring inquiry‐based instruction, while RTOP seems better suited for looking more globally at constructivist teaching practices. Additionally, the utility of EQUIP seems to be larger. It is useful for looking formatively at individual teaching practice, as well as studying summative teacher growth or program effectiveness. Further, because EQUIP uses a descriptive rubric instead of a Likert scale, the instrument provides immediate and targeted feedback to teachers, instructional leaders, and professional development facilitators. This feedback includes both a micro view (individual indicators) and a macro view (construct) of teaching practice.
Genomic predictors of trainability
Authors: Bouchard Claude
Published: October 2011

The concept of individual differences in the response to exercise training or trainability was defined three decades ago. In a series of experimental studies with pairs of monozygotic twins, evidence was found in support of a strong genotype dependency of the ability to respond to regular exercise. In the HERITAGE Family Study, it was observed that the heritability of the maximal oxygen uptake response to 20 weeks of standardized exercise training reached 47% after adjustment for age, sex, baseline maximal oxygen uptake and baseline body mass and composition. Candidate gene studies have not yielded as many validated gene targets and variants as originally anticipated. Genome‐wide explorations have generated more convincing predictors of maximal oxygen uptake trainability. A genomic predictor score based on the number of favourable alleles carried at 21 single nucleotide polymorphisms appears to be able to identify low and high training response classes that differ by at least threefold. Combining transcriptomic and genomic technologies has also yielded highly promising results concerning the ability to predict trainability among sedentary people.
Moderate cardiac‐selective overexpression of angiotensin II type 2 receptor protects cardiac functions from ischaemic injury
Authors: Qi Yanfei , Li Hongwei , Shenoy Vinayak , Li Qiuhong , Wong Fong , Zhang Ling , Raizada Mohan K. , Sumners Colin , Katovich Michael J.
Published: October 2011

We hypothesized that moderate cardiac‐selective overexpression of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) would protect the myocardium from ischaemic injury after a myocardial infarction (MI) induced by coronary artery ligation. For in vitro studies, adenoviral vector expressing genomic DNA of AT2R and enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP) was used to overexpress AT2R in rat neonatal cardiac myocytes. Expression of AT2R, measured by real‐time PCR and immunostaining, demonstrated efficient transduction of AT2R in a dose‐dependent pattern. The AT2R constitutively induced apoptosis in rat neonatal cardiac myocytes in dose‐dependent patterns. For in vivo studies, 4 × 1010 vector genomes (vg) of recombinant adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 (rAAV9)‐chicken β actin promoter‐AT2R was injected into the left ventricle of 5‐day‐old Sprague–Dawley rats. At 6 weeks of age, hearts were harvested and expression of AT2R determined by real‐time PCR and Western blotting. Expression was increased onefold over control hearts, and no apoptosis was detected. Two subsequent in vivo studies were performed. In a prevention study, 4 × 1010 vg of rAAV9‐CBA‐AT2R was injected into the left ventricle of 5‐day‐old Sprague–Dawley rats and MI was induced at 6 weeks of age. For a post‐treatment study, 4 × 1010 vg of rAAV9‐CBA‐AT2R was administrated to the peri‐infarcted myocardium area immediately after MI in 6‐week‐old animals. For both in vivo studies, cardiac functions were assessed using echocardiography and haemodynamic measurements 4 weeks after coronary artery ligation. In the in vivo studies, the rats subjected to MI showed significant decreases in fractional shortening and rate of change of left ventricular pressure, with increased left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure and ventricular hypertrophy. For the prevention study, the moderate cardiac‐selective overexpression of AT2R attenuated these MI‐induced impairments and also caused a decrease in ventricular wall thinning. In the post‐treatment study, the overexpression of AT2R partly reversed the MI‐induced cardiac dysfunction. Myocardial infarction also induced the upregulation of angiotensin II type 1 receptor, angiotensin‐converting enzyme and collagen I mRNA expression, all of which were attenuated by the overexpression of AT2R. It is concluded that moderate cardiac‐selective overexpression of AT2R protects heart function from ischaemic injury, which may be mediated, at least in part, through modulation of components of the cardiac renin–angiotensin system and collagen levels in the myocardium.
Effect of muscle metaboreflex activation on spontaneous cardiac baroreflex sensitivity during exercise in humans
Authors: Hartwich Doreen , Dear William E. , Waterfall Jessica L. , Fisher James P.
Published: October 2011

Non‐technical summary  The ‘arterial baroreflex’ plays an important role in the moment‐to‐moment regulation of blood pressure. It does this partly by eliciting changes in heart rate, but its ability to do this (i.e. sensitivity) during exercise is reduced from rest. During exercise, chemicals accumulate in the muscles (i.e. metabolites) that stimulate sensory nerves within the muscle (i.e. muscle metaboreflex). We show for the first time in humans that the stimulation of metabolically sensitive nerves within the muscles during leg cycling exercise decreases arterial baroreflex sensitivity. This new knowledge increases our understanding of the control of the human heart during exercise.
Morton Effect Induced Synchronous Instability in Mid-Span Rotor–Bearing Systems—Part I: Mechanism Study
Authors: Guo Zenglin , Kirk Gordon
Published: October 2011

The Morton Effect in rotor-bearing systems may lead to an unstable operation. In Part I, the mechanism of the Morton Effect–induced thermal instability in the mid-span rotor systems is studied. First, the equivalent thermal induced imbalance is introduced and its magnitude and directions are assumed, to represent the viscous thermal effect on the rotor systems. Then, the simplified rotor and bearing models are adopted for the derivation of analytical expressions. The results show that there exists a threshold of instability due to the Morton Effect in the mid-span rotors. Based on the assumptions of linear isotopic bearing supports, this threshold speed takes a simple form, which is determined by the support stiffness and the introduced equivalent coefficient of thermal effect, for the rigid or elastic rotors, with the thermal imbalance acting in the same direction as the response displacement. The threshold of instability is also obtained for the system with the thermal imbalance acting perpendicular to the response displacement, where the supporting damping plays a role. For a perspective view of the system stability, a stability map for the damped rigid mid-span rotors with the thermal imbalance having arbitrary phase difference is generated. It shows that the stable operating regions of the system are bounded by two curves of threshold of instability, named the first and second threshold speeds of instability, respectively. The Morton Effect–induced instability thresholds are actually affected by both the magnitude and relative phase of the thermal imbalance. The mechanism of the Morton Effect–induced thermal instability of mid-span rotors supported by linear isotropic bearings can be explained through the fact that the Morton Effect introduces either negative stiffness or negative cross-coupled stiffness. In addition, the Morton Effect also has a comprehensive impact on both the amplitude and phase lag of the steady-state unbalance response. It may shift both curves in a manner dependent on the relative magnitude and direction of the thermal imbalance.
Pharmacokinetics-Pharmacodynamics of Tigecycline in Patients with Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Rubino Christopher M. , Bhavnani Sujata M. , Forrest Alan , Dukart Gary , Dartois Nathalie , Cooper Angel , Korth-Bradley Joan , Ambrose Paul G.
Published: October 2011

Exposure-response analyses for efficacy and safety were performed for tigecycline-treated patients suffering from community-acquired pneumonia. Data were collected from two randomized, controlled clinical trials in which patients were administered a 100-mg loading dose followed by 50 mg of tigecycline every 12 h. A categorical endpoint, success or failure, 7 to 23 days after the end of therapy (test of cure) and a continuous endpoint, time to fever resolution, were evaluated for exposure-response analyses for efficacy. Nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and changes in blood urea nitrogen concentration (BUN) and total bilirubin were evaluated for exposure-response analyses for safety. For efficacy, ratios of the free-drug area under the concentration-time curve at 24 h to the MIC of the pathogen (
f
AUC
0-24
:MIC) of ≥12.8 were associated with a faster time to fever resolution; patients with lower drug exposures had a slower time to fever resolution (
P
= 0.05). For safety, a multivariable logistic regression model demonstrated that a tigecycline AUC above a threshold of 6.87 mg · hr/liter (
P
= 0.004) and female sex were predictive of the occurrence of nausea and/or vomiting (
P
= 0.004). Although statistically significant, the linear relationship between tigecycline exposure and maximum change from baseline in total bilirubin is unlikely to be clinically significant.
Comparison of Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Voriconazole Intravenous-to-Oral Switch in Immunocompromised Children and Healthy Adults
Authors: Driscoll Timothy A. , Yu Lolie C. , Frangoul Haydar , Krance Robert A. , Nemecek Eneida , Blumer Jeffrey , Arrieta Antonio , Graham Michael L. , Bradfield Scott M. , Baruch Alice , Liu Ping
Published: October 2011

Voriconazole pharmacokinetics are not well characterized in children despite prior studies. To assess the appropriate pediatric dosing, a study was conducted in 40 immunocompromised children aged 2 to <12 years to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and safety of voriconazole following intravenous (IV)-to-oral (PO) switch regimens based on a previous population pharmacokinetic modeling: 7 mg/kg IV every 12 h (q12h) and 200 mg PO q12h. Area under the curve over the 12-h dosing interval (AUC
0–12
) was calculated using the noncompartmental method and compared to that for adults receiving approved dosing regimens (6→4 mg/kg IV q12h, 200 mg PO q12h). On average, the AUC
0–12
in children receiving 7 mg/kg IV q12h on day 1 and at IV steady state were 7.85 and 21.4 μg·h/ml, respectively, and approximately 44% and 40% lower, respectively, than those for adults at 6→4 mg/kg IV q12h. Large intersubject variability was observed. At steady state during oral treatment (200 mg q12h), children had higher average exposure than adults, with much larger intersubject variability. The exposure achieved with oral dosing in children tended to decrease as weight and age increased. The most common treatment-related adverse events were transient elevated liver function tests. No clear threshold of voriconazole exposure was identified that would predict the occurrence of treatment-related hepatic events. Overall, voriconazole IV doses higher than 7 mg/kg are needed in children to closely match adult exposures, and a weight-based oral dose may be more appropriate for children than a fixed dose. Safety of voriconazole in children was consistent with the known safety profile of voriconazole.
Differences in Efficacy and Cytokine Profiles following Echinocandin or Liposomal Amphotericin B Monotherapy or Combination Therapy for Murine Pulmonary or Systemic Aspergillus flavus Infections
Authors: Olson J. A. , Schwartz J. , Hahka D. , George A. , Proffitt R. T. , Adler-Moore J. P.
Published: October 2011

Given the recent increase in aspergillosis caused by species other than
Aspergillus fumigatus
, micafungin, caspofungin, and liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmBi) were investigated as monotherapy or combination therapy for murine systemic or pulmonary
Aspergillus flavus
infection. Treatment for 3 or 6 days was begun at 24 h (intravenous [i.v.], 2.8 × 10
4
conidia) or 2 h (intranasal, 4.1 × 10
6
to 6.75 × 10
6
conidia) postchallenge as follows: 5 or 10 mg/kg L-AmBi, 10 mg/kg caspofungin, 15 mg/kg micafungin, L-AmBi plus echinocandin, L-AmBi on days 1 to 3 and echinocandin on days 4 to 6, or echinocandin on days 1 to 3 and L-AmBi on days 4 to 6. Mice were monitored for survival, fungal burden, serum or tissue cytokines, and lung histopathology. In the systemic infection, micafungin or caspofungin was more effective than L-AmBi in prolonging survival (
P
< 0.05), and L-AmBi was associated with significantly elevated serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), macrophage inflammatory protein 1α (MIP-1α), and IL-12 (
P
< 0.05). In contrast, L-AmBi was significantly more effective than the echinocandins in reducing fungal growth in most tissues (
P
< 0.05). Concomitant therapies produced significantly enhanced survival, reduction in fungal burden, and low levels of proinflammatory cytokines, while antagonism was seen with some sequential regimens. In comparison, in the pulmonary infection, L-AmBi was significantly better (
P
< 0.05) than caspofungin or the combination of L-AmBi and caspofungin in prolonging survival and reducing lung fungal burden. Caspofungin stimulated high lung levels of IL-1α, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and IL-6, with extensive tissue damage. In summary, systemic
A flavus
infection was treated effectively with L-AmBi plus micafungin or caspofungin provided that the drugs were administered concomitantly and not sequentially, while pulmonary
A. flavus
infection responded well to L-AmBi but not to caspofungin.