bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermittent hypoxia and hypercapnia induce pulmonary artery atherosclerosis and ventricular dysfunction in low density lipoprotein receptor deficient mice
Authors: Douglas Robert M. , Bowden Karen , Pattison Jennifer , Peterson Alexander B. , Juliano Joseph , Dalton Nancy D. , Gu Yusu , Alvarez Erika , Imamura Toshihiro , Peterson Kirk L. , Witztum Joseph L. , Haddad Gabriel G. , Li Andrew C.
Published: August 2013

Patients with obstructive sleep apnea, who experience episodic hypoxia and hypercapnia during sleep, often demonstrate increased inflammation, oxidative stress, and dyslipidemia. We hypothesized that sleep apnea patients would be predisposed to the development of atherosclerosis. To dissect the mechanisms involved, we developed an animal model in mice whereby we expose mice to intermittent hypoxia/hypercapnia (IHH) in normobaric environments. Two- to three-month-old low-density lipoprotein receptor deficient ( Ldlr−/−) mice were fed a high-fat diet for 8 or 16 wk while being exposed to IHH for either 10 h/day or 24 h/day. Plasma lipid levels, pulmonary artery and aortic atherosclerotic lesions, and cardiac function were then assayed. Surprisingly, atherosclerosis in the aorta of IHH mice was similar compared with controls. However, in IHH mice, atherosclerosis was markedly increased in the trunk and proximal branches of the pulmonary artery of exposed mice; even though plasma cholesterol and triglycerides were lower than in controls. Hemodynamic analysis revealed that right ventricular maximum pressure and isovolumic relaxation constant were significantly increased in IHH exposed mice and left ventricular % fractional shortening was reduced. In conclusion, 1) Intermittent hypoxia/hypercapnia remarkably accelerated atherosclerotic lesions in the pulmonary artery of Ldlr−/−mice and 2) increased lesion formation in the pulmonary artery was associated with right and left ventricular dysfunction. These findings raise the possibility that patients with obstructive sleep apnea may be susceptible to atherosclerotic disease in the pulmonary vasculature, an observation that has not been previously recognized.
Brain mapping after prolonged cycling and during recovery in the heat
Authors: De Pauw Kevin , Roelands Bart , Marušič Uroš , Tellez Helio Fernandez , Knaepen Kristel , Meeusen Romain
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of prolonged intensive cycling and postexercise recovery in the heat on brain sources of altered brain oscillations. After a max test and familiarization trial, nine trained male subjects (23 ± 3 yr; maximal oxygen uptake = 62.1 ± 5.3 ml·min−1·kg−1) performed three experimental trials in the heat (30°C; relative humidity 43.7 ± 5.6%). Each trial consisted of two exercise tasks separated by 1 h. The first was a 60-min constant-load trial, followed by a 30-min simulated time trial (TT1). The second comprised a 12-min simulated time trial (TT2). After TT1, active recovery (AR), passive rest (PR), or cold water immersion (CWI) was applied for 15 min. Electroencephalography was measured at baseline and during postexercise recovery. Standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography was applied to accurately pinpoint and localize altered electrical neuronal activity. After CWI, PR and AR subjects completed TT2 in 761 ± 42, 791 ± 76, and 794 ± 62 s, respectively. A prolonged intensive cycling performance in the heat decreased β activity across the whole brain. Postexercise AR and PR elicited no significant electrocortical differences, whereas CWI induced significantly increased β3 activity in Brodmann areas (BA) 13 (posterior margin of insular cortex) and BA 40 (supramarginal gyrus). Self-paced prolonged exercise in the heat seems to decrease β activity, hence representing decreased arousal. Postexercise CWI increased β3 activity at BA 13 and 40, brain areas involved in somatosensory information processing.
Mapping cyclic stretch in the postpneumonectomy murine lung
Authors: Filipovic Nenad , Gibney Barry C. , Kojic Milos , Nikolic Dalibor , Isailovic Velibor , Ysasi Alexandra , Konerding Moritz A. , Mentzer Steven J. , Tsuda Akira
Published: August 2013

In many mammalian species, the removal of one lung [pneumonectomy (PNX)] is associated with the compensatory growth of the remaining lung. To investigate the hypothesis that parenchymal deformation may trigger lung regeneration, we used respiratory-gated micro-computed tomography scanning to create three-dimensional finite-element geometric models of the murine cardiac lobe with cyclic breathing. Models were constructed of respiratory-gated micro-computed tomography scans pre-PNX and 24 h post-PNX. The computational models demonstrated that the maximum stretch ratio map was patchy and heterogeneous, particularly in subpleural, juxta-diaphragmatic, and cephalad regions of the lobe. In these parenchymal regions, the material line segments at peak inspiration were frequently two- to fourfold greater after PNX; some regions of the post-PNX cardiac lobe demonstrated parenchymal compression at peak inspiration. Similarly, analyses of parenchymal maximum shear strain demonstrated heterogeneous regions of mechanical stress with focal regions demonstrating a threefold increase in shear strain after PNX. Consistent with previously identified growth patterns, these subpleural regions of enhanced stretch and shear strain are compatible with a mechanical signal, likely involving cyclic parenchymal stretch, triggering lung growth.
Gene-centric association signals for haemostasis and thrombosis traits identified with the HumanCVD BeadChip
Authors: Shah Sonia , Guyatt Anna , Ladroue Christophe , Kumari Meena , Drenos Fotios , Shah Tina , Talmud Philippa J. , Casas Juan , Lowe Gordon , Rumley Ann , Lawlor Debbie A. , Kivimaki Mika , Whittaker John , Hingorani Aroon D. , Gaunt Tom R. , Zabaneh Delilah , Humphries Steve E. , Day Ian N.
Published: August 2013

Coagulation phenotypes show strong intercorrelations, affect cardiovascular disease risk and are influenced by genetic variants. The objective of this study was to search for novel genetic variants influencing the following coagulation phenotypes: factor VII levels, fibrinogen levels, plasma viscosity and platelet count. We genotyped the British Women’s Heart and Health Study (n=3,445) and the Whitehall II study (n=5,059) using the Illumina HumanCVD BeadArray to investigate genetic associations and pleiotropy. In addition to previously reported associations (SH2B3, F7/F10, PROCR, GCKR, FGA/FGB/FGG, IL5), we identified novel associations at GRK5 (rs10128498, p = 1.30×10−6), GCKR (rs1260326, p = 1.63×10−6), ZNF259-APOA5 (rs651821, p = 7.17x10–6) with plasma viscosity; and at CSF1 (rs333948, p = 8.88×10−6) with platelet count. A pleiotropic effect was identified in GCKR which associated with factor VII (p = 2.16×10−7) and plasma viscosity (p = 1.63×10−6), and, to a lesser extent, ZNF259-APOA5 which also associated with factor VII and fibrinogen (p<1.00×10−2) and plasma viscosity (p<1.00×10−5). Triglyceride associated variants were overrepresented in factor VII and plasma viscosity associations. Adjusting for triglyceride levels resulted in attenuation of associations at the GCKR and ZNF259-APOA5 loci. In addition to confirming previously reported associations, we identified four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with plasma viscosity and platelet count and found evidence of pleiotropic effects with SNPs in GCKR and ZNF259-APOA5. These triglyceride-associated, pleiotropic SNPs suggest a possible causal role for triglycerides in coagulation.
High-molecular-weight kininogen and the intrinsic coagulation pathway in patients with de novo acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Cubedo Judit , Ramaiola Ilaria , Padró Teresa , Martin-Yuste Victoria , Sabate-Tenas Manel , Badimon Lina
Published: August 2013

After an acute ischaemic event serum proteins may change reflecting the ischaemic damage. Proteomic studies could provide new insights into potential biomarkers in the evolution of ischaemic syndromes. In this study we have investigated the coordinated changes in coagulation-related proteins in the evolution after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Serum proteome (2D-electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF/ TOF) of AMI-patients within the first 6 hours after event onset (admission-time) and 3 days after were compared to controls. Systems biology and bioinformatic analysis were performed to identify the differentially expressed canonical pathways. In silico analysis of differential proteins revealed changes in the intrinsic coagulation pathway in the early phase post-AMI. The two identified high-molecular weight kininogen (HMWK) clusters were inversely correlated in AMI patients at admission, being the intensity of the low-molecular-weight form inversely related to myocardial necrosis (p<0.05). Factor XI (FXI) levels were decreased in AMI patients at admission and normalised 3 days after (p<0.05). There was an early increase in fibrinogen gamma and D-dimer at admission, followed by a decrease in fibrinogen turnover 3 days after (p<0.05). The influence of elapsed time of ischaemia on fibrinogen distribution changes was validated in coronary thrombi retrieved by thromboaspiration. In conclusion, our results demonstrate an active exchange between HMWK forms and a decrease in FXI indicative of intrinsic pathway activation, together with an increase in fibrinogen gamma turnover and D-dimer formation in the early phase post-AMI. Moreover, coronary thrombi showed a dynamic evolution in fibrinogen composition depending on the duration of ischaemia influencing serum fibrinogen-related products content.
Carotid Plaque MRI and Stroke Risk
Authors: Gupta Ajay , Baradaran Hediyeh , Schweitzer Andrew D. , Kamel Hooman , Pandya Ankur , Delgado Diana , Dunning Allison , Mushlin Alvin I. , Sanelli Pina C.
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose—

MRI characterization of carotid plaque has been studied recently as a potential tool to predict stroke caused by carotid atherosclerosis. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize the association of MRI-determined intraplaque hemorrhage, lipid-rich necrotic core, and thinning/rupture of the fibrous cap with subsequent ischemic events.

Methods—

We performed a comprehensive literature search evaluating the association of carotid plaque composition on MRI with ischemic outcomes. We included cohort studies examining intraplaque hemorrhage, lipid-rich necrotic core, or thinning/rupture of the fibrous cap with mean follow-up of ≥1 month and an outcome measure of ipsilateral stroke or transient ischemic attack. A meta-analysis using a random-effects model with assessment of study heterogeneity and publication bias was performed.

Results—

Of the 3436 articles screened, 9 studies with a total of 779 subjects met eligibility for systematic review. The hazard ratios for intraplaque hemorrhage, lipid-rich necrotic core, and thinning/rupture of the fibrous cap as predictors of subsequent stroke/transient ischemic attack were 4.59 (95% confidence interval, 2.91–7.24), 3.00 (95% confidence interval, 1.51–5.95), and 5.93 (95% confidence interval, 2.65–13.20), respectively. No statistically significant heterogeneity or publication bias was present in the 3 main meta-analyses performed.

Conclusions—

The presence of intraplaque hemorrhage, lipid-rich necrotic core, and thinning/rupture of the fibrous cap on MRI of carotid plaque is associated with increased risk of future stroke or transient ischemic attack in patients with carotid atherosclerotic disease. Dedicated MRI of plaque composition offers stroke risk information beyond measurement of luminal stenosis in carotid atherosclerotic disease.
Occupational Noise Exposure and the Risk of Stroke
Authors: Stokholm Zara A. , Bonde Jens Peter , Christensen Kent L. , Hansen Åse M. , Kolstad Henrik A.
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose—

Traffic noise <60 dB(A) has been associated with an increased risk of stroke. We investigated this relationship for 80 to 86 dB(A) occupational noise.

Methods—

We followed 116 568 industrial and 47 679 financial workers by linkage to Danish registries 2001 through 2007. Full-shift noise levels were estimated from subsets of workers at baseline and end of follow-up.

Results—

We identified 981 stroke patients and observed a 27% increased confounder-adjusted risk of stroke for industrial compared with financial workers. However, longer duration or higher noise level within the industrial workers were unrelated to the risk of stroke.

Conclusions—

Our study did not support an association between occupational noise exposure and stroke, and the higher risk among industrial workers may reflect lifestyle differences.
The Conversion of Ruth in Targum Ruth
Authors: Brady Christian M. M.
Published: August 2013

Abstract

In the book of Ruth there is no doubt that the title character is a central figure. Targum Ruth re-presents her as the Rabbinic proselyte par excellence. This is accomplished primarily through additions to 1:16–7. But Ruth’s status as the ideal convert is also confirmed thorough Boaz’s announcement that she would be “saved from the judgment of Gehenna so that [her] portion may be with Sarah and Rebekah and Rachel and Leah” (TgRuth 2:12) and that she is “a righteous woman and there is in [her] strength to bear the yoke of the commandments of the LORD” (TgRuth 3:11). Examining these and other changes to the biblical text introduced by the Targumist, this article demonstrates how, in the Targum, Ruth becomes not just an admirable woman who acts out of kindness to her mother-in-law but is truly the Rabbinic exemplar for all converts.
Partnership working and possible selves in music education
Authors: Varvarigou Maria , Creech Andrea , Hallam Susan
Published: August 2013

Between 2008 and 2010, the internationally acclaimed London Symphony Orchestra worked in partnership with the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and 10 East London Music Services, delivering a range of music education projects that involved professional musicians, classroom teachers, primary school-aged pupils and college students. This article considers qualitative and quantitative findings from an evaluation of the partnership and explores the extent to which participation influenced the aspirations and self-concept of those actively engaged stakeholders. The data are interpreted through the “possible selves” construct (Markus & Nurius, 1986), which offers a framework for understanding the partnership as the medium through which the formulation of aspirations and goals may be interpreted.
How does a risk-oriented “future-self” influence behavior?: A structural-equation-modeling approach with marijuana-related outcomes
Authors: Comello Maria Leonora G
Published: August 2013

A study was conducted to examine the influence of a risk-oriented future self on self-reported marijuana use among college students. Drawing on theoretical work on possible selves, it was hypothesized that the extent to which a future self is viewed as risk-oriented will be associated with reported marijuana use and that effects of a risk-oriented future self on use would be partially mediated by risk-oriented attitudes and perceived attractiveness of users. Analysis of data from an online survey of college students supported hypotheses, with the additional finding that the effect of user attractiveness on use is mediated by attitudes.
Alternative frameworks for examining Latino male bisexuality in the urban space: A theoretical commentary based on ethnographic research in Rio de Janeiro and New York
Authors: Muñoz-Laboy Miguel , Parker Richard , Perry Ashley , Garcia Jonathan
Published: August 2013

Latino male bisexual experience has remained under-studied and under-theorized in much of the recent sexuality research. Based on long-term ethnographic research conducted in Rio de Janeiro and New York City, this article seeks to examine the cultural patterns and social contexts in which male bisexual experiences took shape in these urban centers, and to explore and refine a number of key theoretical formulations that have been developed in recent sexuality research. It examines the ways in which bisexual desires take shape, the choreography of sexual interactions with both male and female partners, and the continuities and changes that seem to be taking place in these settings.
Fatigue and Team Performance in Soccer
Authors: Scoppa Vincenzo
Published: August 2013

We investigate the role of fatigue in soccer (football). Although this issue is important for the “productivity” of players and the optimal organization of national and international championships, empirical evidence is lacking. We use data on all the matches played by national teams in all the tournaments of the Soccer World Cup (from 1930 to 2010) and the European Football Championship (from 1960 to 2012). We relate team performance (in terms of points gained and goals scored and conceded) to the respective days of rests that teams have had after their previous match, controlling for several measures of teams’ abilities. Using different estimators we show that, under the current structure of major international tournaments, there are no relevant effects of enjoying different days of rest on team performance. However, we find that before 1990s days of rest had a positive impact on performance, presumably because athletic preparation of players was less effective. Furthermore, we show that the advantage of additional rest is quite relevant, when rest time of one of the opposing teams is three days or less.
Thinking-Aloud About Stereotypical Mainstream and Opiate-Dependent Lifestyle Images
Authors: McLeod Andrew , Ogden Jane
Published: August 2013

Participants (6 male, 4 female) on a methadone maintenance program completed a Think-Aloud procedure while viewing two stereotypical picture sets depicting opiate-dependent and mainstream lifestyles. Discourse analysis indicated that participants used two different discourses: a stereotype-affirming defensive discourse, which involved affirming the negative and positive stereotypes regarding opiate-dependent and mainstream lifestyles, and a stereotype-refuting defensive discourse, which involved refuting negative opiate-dependent stereotypes while constructing mainstream lifestyles and members negatively. We argue that both discourses fit within a grander discourse concerning normalization with participants’ speech functioning to defend them from being negatively stereotyped by making them “normal” members of society.
inTB - a data integration platform for molecular and clinical epidemiological analysis of tuberculosis
Authors: Soares Patrícia , Alves Renato J , Abecasis Ana B , Penha-Gonçalves Carlos , Gomes M Gabriela M , Pereira-Leal José B
Published: August 2013

Background

Tuberculosis is currently the second highest cause of death from infectious diseases worldwide. The emergence of multi and extensive drug resistance is threatening to make tuberculosis incurable. There is growing evidence that the genetic diversity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis may have important clinical consequences. Therefore, combining genetic, clinical and socio-demographic data is critical to understand the epidemiology of this infectious disease, and how virulence and other phenotypic traits evolve over time. This requires dedicated bioinformatics platforms, capable of integrating and enabling analyses of this heterogeneous data.

Results

We developed inTB, a web-based system for integrated warehousing and analysis of clinical, socio-demographic and molecular data for Mycobacterium sp. isolates. As a database it can organize and display data from any of the standard genotyping methods (SNP, MIRU-VNTR, RFLP and spoligotype), as well as an extensive array of clinical and socio-demographic variables that are used in multiple countries to characterize the disease. Through the inTB interface it is possible to insert and download data, browse the database and search specific parameters. New isolates are automatically classified into strains according to an internal reference, and data uploaded or typed in is checked for internal consistency. As an analysis framework, the system provides simple, point and click analysis tools that allow multiple types of data plotting, as well as simple ways to download data for external analysis. Individual trees for each genotyping method are available, as well as a super tree combining all of them. The integrative nature of inTB grants the user the ability to generate trees for filtered subsets of data crossing molecular and clinical/socio-demografic information. inTB is built on open source software, can be easily installed locally and easily adapted to other diseases. Its design allows for use by research laboratories, hospitals or public health authorities. The full source code as well as ready to use packages is available at http://www.evocell.org/inTB.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the only system capable of integrating different types of molecular data with clinical and socio-demographic data, empowering researchers and clinicians with easy to use analysis tools that were not possible before.
Debate on HES safety is important, but must be based on facts
Authors: Haase Nicolai , Müller Rasmus , Perner Anders
Published: August 2013

The Scandinavian Starch for Severe Sepsis / Septic Shock (6S) trial showed that hydroxyethyl starch was harmful compared to Ringer’s acetate in patients with severe sepsis when used according to clinical practice and in alignment with the recommendations by the manufactures and authorities. The different interpretation by Chapell and Jacob’s rely on misreading of the trial publication and is not supported by the trial data. Several hypotheses may be made regarding less harmful ways of using HES in critically ill patients, but clinicians, guideline committee members and authorities need to acknowledge that such safer ways have not yet been identified.
Interpenetrating Polymer Network Using Amphiphilic Poly(N-vinylacetamide) and Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) to Deactivate Phosphate Ester Compounds
Authors: Ajiro Hiroharu , Akashi Mitsuru
Published: August 2013

An interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) of poly(N-vinylacetamide) (PNVA) and poly(2-hydroxylethyl methacrylate) (HEMA) was designed to deactivate agricultural chemicals. The imprinting effect of PNVA hydrogel preparation is discussed, as compared to PNVA single hydrogels and nonimprinted IPNs in the methamidophos adsorption experiments.
Can foot compression under a plaster cast prevent deep-vein thrombosis during lower limb immobilisation?
Authors: Domeij-Arverud E. , Latifi A. , Labruto F. , Nilsson G. , Ackermann P. W.
Published: August 2013

We hypothesised that adjuvant intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) beneath a plaster cast would reduce the risk of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) during post-operative immobilisation of the lower limb. Of 87 patients with acute tendo Achillis (TA) rupture, 26 were prospectively randomised post-operatively after open TA repair. The treatment group (n = 14) received two weeks of IPC of the foot for at least six hours daily under a plaster cast. The control group (n = 12) had no additional treatment. At two weeks post-operatively all patients received an orthosis until follow-up at six weeks. At two and six weeks the incidence of DVT was assessed using colour duplex sonography by two ultrasonographers blinded to the treatment. Two patients withdrew from the study due to inability to tolerate IPC treatment.

An interim analysis demonstrated a high incidence of DVT in both the IPC group (9 of 12, 75%) and the controls (6 of 12, 50%) (p = 0.18). No significant differences in incidence were detected at two (p = 0.33) or six weeks (p = 0.08) post-operatively. Malfunction of the IPC leading to a second plaster cast was found to correlate with an increased DVT risk at two weeks (φ = 0.71; p = 0.019), leading to a premature abandonment of the study.

We cannot recommend adjuvant treatment with foot IPC under a plaster cast for outpatient DVT prevention during post-operative immobilisation, owing to a high incidence of DVT related to malfunctioning of this type of IPC application.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1227–31.
‘It’s very difficult to enable choice’: Citizenship education for welfare professionals in challenging times
Authors: Gifford Chris , McGlynn Catherine
Published: August 2013

This article examines how the themes employed in citizenship teaching and learning are relevant to understanding the education of welfare professionals in English universities. The academic literature on citizenship education has predominantly focused upon the school curriculum and, consequently, the experiences of children and young people. Nevertheless, the boundaries of citizenship education are contested and the research presented here concerns its applicability to vocational programmes in Higher Education outside of teacher training. We argue that although citizenship education has become more explicit within secondary school classrooms, educators involved in the teaching and training of welfare professionals find themselves caught within a number of dynamics that make it difficult for them to engage directly with the potential value, as well as the pitfalls, of extending a programme of formal citizenship education to their students. Taking a phenomenongraphic approach, we explore how these educators understand citizenship and negotiate the idea of citizenship education within the university context and the wider community within which their students are being trained to practice. In so doing, the limitations and possibilities of extending citizenship teaching and learning to new constituencies are highlighted.
Reviews
Authors: Tse Thomas , Jerome Lee , Davies Ian , Clemitshaw Gary
Published: August 2013

Reshaping Education for Citizenship: Democratic National Citizenship in Hong Kong, Pak-Sang Lai and Michael Byram (2012) Newcastle upon Tyne: Cambridge Scholars Publishing, 257 pp., ISBN: 978-1-4438-3531-2, h/bk, £39.99

The Labour Party and Citizenship Education: Policy Networks and the Introduction of Citizenship Lessons in Schools, Ben Kisby (2012) Manchester: Manchester University Press, 208pp., ISBN: 978-0-7190-8622-9, h/bk, £65.00

The Righteous Mind: Why Good People are Divided by Politics and Religion, Jonathan Haidt (2012) London: Allen Lane, XVII + 419pp., ISBN: 978-1-846-14181-2, h/bk, £20.00

Pass the New Life in the UK Test: The Complete Study Guide for 2013, Celine Castelino (2013) Leicester: National Institute of Adult Continuing Education, 333 pp., ISBN: 978-1-86201-702-3, p/bk, £11.95
Worth a closer look: A comparative study of Xala and Osuofia in London
Authors: Kilian Cassis
Published: August 2013

Since the turn of the twenty-first century, films produced in Africa have been categorized as either ‘elitist’ auteur cinema or ‘popular’ video films. This antagonism is not least due to a tendency to overload the study of African film with theory and thereby to lose sight of the movies themselves. As the same concepts and authors are cited repeatedly, we read a lot of self-references instead of references to the films themselves. In an attempt to bridge the emerging gap between these two types of film, the article proposes a closer look at Ousmane Sembène’s satire Xala from 1974 and the successful two-part video comedy Osuofia in London by Kingsley Ogoro from 2003/2004. The films have little in common in terms of production and reception contexts, but a comparison of the auteur film and the video film may reveal similarities in theme and mise-en-scène.
‘Army of Cars’: The automobile in Flora Gomes’ The Blue Eyes of Yonta
Authors: Teversham Edward
Published: August 2013

This article explores Flora Gomes’ use of the automobile as a visual trope in his seminal film The Blue Eyes of Yonta (1991). It is argued that the automobile is an essential component in the meaning and structure of the film. This ‘automobility’ is compared to the high levels of pedestrianism in Gomes’ other work, as well as the role that the automobile has played within recent Guinean history. By considering the car both as a functional presence in the film as well as a more figurative object, it is observed that the automobile inhabits various spaces in The Blue Eyes of Yonta: social, cultural and political. The result is that Gomes uses the car as a multifaceted metaphor that encourages the viewer to reconsider how we incorporate the modern into our everyday behaviour.
(Auto)Biographical and cinematographic exposition of Dambudzo Marechera on documentary film and video
Authors: Mhiripiri Nhamo Anthony
Published: August 2013

Documentary film is a technical artistic method whose importance in the representation of Dambudzo Marechera1 – probably Zimbabwe’s best-known creative writer – has not been adequately investigated. Marechera is documented in sequences of The House of Hunger (Chris Austin, 1983), Olley Maruma’s After the Hunger and Drought (1985) and in untitled footage shot by Edwina Spicer (1984). These documentaries have cinematographic significance, but they also challenge and reproduce popular impressions of Marechera as an eccentric crazy writer. Besides communicating pro-filmic visuals of Marechera himself, the documentaries offer extensive oral presentations by Marechera on a broad range of topics, including his sanity or insanity and his notions on censorship, identity and his writing habits and plans. This article will outline the structure of each individual documentary, and the relationships between Marechera and the films’ directors will be explored.
Buprenorphine in the treatment of non-suicidal self-injury: a case series and discussion of the literature
Authors: Norelli Lisa J. , Smith Howard S. , Sher Leo , Blackwood Tracey A.
Published: August 2013

A global public health problem, non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is highly prevalent in both males and females, and tends to first occur in adolescence. NSSI is correlated with a history of childhood trauma, and with a variety of developmental and psychiatric disorders. NSSI is associated with increased risk of morbidity and premature death from suicide, accidents, and natural causes. Current treatment approaches are inadequate for a substantial number of people. Converging evidence for opioid system dysregulation in individuals with NSSI make this a promising area of investigation for more effective treatments. The pharmacological profile of buprenorphine, a potent μ-opioid partial agonist and κ-opioid antagonist, suggests that it may be beneficial. In this paper, we describe the successful treatment of severe NSSI with buprenorphine in six individuals, followed by discussion and further recommendations.
Increasing Africa’s Share of Vertical Investments through Single Window Systems
Authors: Ndonga Dennis
Published: August 2013

The growth of international trade in recent years has highlighted the importance of customs authorities as the gateway to the global market. However, border delays and inefficiencies resulting from cumbersome documentation requirements have disrupted the flow of goods and acted as a non-tariff barrier to international trade in many African countries. Additionally, these same deficiencies have interrupted the inward flow of vertical Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). When searching for suitable locations to establish manufacturing plants, foreign investors place emphasis on a number of factors such as the cost of exporting, expediency of importing time sensitive production inputs and distance to target markets. Customs efficiency plays a major role in positively influencing these factors and hence forms a crucial part of any investment decision. This article examines the negative impact of inefficient border procedures on vertical FDI inflows to Africa. The article recommends the implementation of single window systems as an investment facilitation tool.
Methimazole-induced myositis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Bou Khalil R , Abou Salbi M , Sissi S , El Kara N , Azar E , Khoury M , Abdallah G , Hreiki J , Farhat S
Published: August 2013

Methimazole is an anti-thyroid drug commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism and is a relatively safe medication. Several side effects have been reported and usually develop within 3 months of therapy. Well-known adverse reactions include agranulocytosis, hepatitis, skin eruptions, and musculoskeletal complaints such as myalgia, arthralgia, and arthritis. So far, myositis secondary to carbimazole was described in the context of a lupus-like syndrome or other rare cases of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies-associated vasculitis. Methimazole-induced myositis occurring independently of such reactions was rarely stated. We report a patient with hyperthyroidism who, early after therapy with methimazole, developed hepatitis, eosinophilia, and fever that resolved completely after stopping the medication as well as a delayed onset of biopsy-proven eosinophilic myositis and fasciitis of gluteal muscles that resolved eventually without any additional therapy. Therefore, we raise the awareness regarding a rare side effect of methimazole: myositis.

Learning points

Several differential diagnoses arise when managing a hyperthyroid patient with muscle complaints.

Both hyperthyroidism and methimazole are associated with myositis.

Methimazole-induced myositis is a rare clinical entity.

Resolution of symptoms may occur after stopping methimazole.
Most regions of mouse epididymis are able to phagocytose immature germ cells
Authors: Ramos-Ibeas P , Pericuesta E , Fernández-González R , Ramírez M A , Gutierrez-Adan A
Published: August 2013

The role of the epididymis as a quality control organ in preventing infertile gametes entering the ejaculate has been extensively explored, and it has been suggested that a specific region of mammalian epididymis is able to phagocytose abnormal germ cells. This study examines whether the epithelium of certain zones of the mouse epididymis can act as a selection barrier by removing immature germ cells from the lumen by phagocytosis. To detect the presence of immature germ cells in the epididymis, we generated transgenic mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein under the deleted in azoospermia-like (mDazl) promoter to easily identify immature germ cells under fluorescence microscopy. Using this technique, we observed that during the first stage of spermatogenesis in prepuberal mice, a wave of immature germ cells is released into the epididymis and that the immature epididymis is not able to react to this abnormal situation. By contrast, when immature germ cells were artificially released into the epididymis in adult mice, a phagocytic response was observed. Phagosomes appeared inside principal cells of the epididymal epithelium and were observed to contain immature germ cells at different degradation stages in different zones of the epididymis, following the main wave of immature germ cells. In this paper, we describe how the epididymal epithelium controls sperm quality by clearing immature germ cells in response to their artificially induced massive shedding into the epididymal lumen. Our observations indicate that this phenomenon is not restricted to a given epididymis region and that phagocytic capacity is gradually acquired during epididymal development.
Water supply to a geotechnical centrifuge
Authors: Shepley Paul , Bolton Malcolm D.
Published: August 2013

The supply of water to a centrifuge experiment has always been important. This paper details a new system which has been successfully commissioned for use on the geotechnical centrifuge at University of Cambridge. High water pressures and large flow rates were delivered to an experimental package, for the modelling of water injection-aided pile jacking. The practicalities of such a system are discussed in relation to existing alternatives, in addition to the precautions taken to ensure safe centrifuge operation. A method for calculating water pressures in the system away from instrumented locations is also proposed, using a linear relationship between energy per unit volume and the flow rate squared. Experimental data are presented to support these relationships.
The ecological imperative for environmental design and planning
Authors: Steiner Frederick , Simmons Mark , Gallagher Mark , Ranganathan Janet , Robertson Colin
Published: August 2013

Environmental design and planning are important tools for human adaptation. Designers and planners depend on experience, craft, and environmental knowledge to shape preferred futures. Ecological literacy would enhance the design and planning of built environments. The concepts of “resilience” and “ecosystem” offer opportunities for collaboration between ecologists and practitioners in the design and planning disciplines. Urban resilience to natural disasters and coastal “green” infrastructure represent two areas where design and planning based on ecological principles should be applied. The Sustainable Sites Initiative is a practical example of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Statistical inference for a multivariate diffusion model of an ecological time series
Authors: Varughese Melvin M , Pienaar Etienne A. D
Published: August 2013

Diffusion processes are natural modelling frameworks for many stochastic phenomena. However since inference for nonlinear diffusion models is difficult, the diffusion models used within the ecological literature are predominantly linear thus ignoring the more complex forces that many populations and environments are subject to. We suggest a parameter estimation procedure that is computationally efficient and valid for a wide class of diffusion models. This includes diffusions that are nonlinear and/or multivariate. The procedure is used to fit a diffusion model to a time series with three variables: the plankton abundances for bothPseudo‐nitzschia australisandProrocentrum micansin addition to the surface water temperature.Pseudo‐nitzschia australisare shown to achieve maximal growth with a water temperature in the region of 7.8–16.0°C. The corresponding optimum temperature region forProrocentrum micansis 12.5–24.5°C with the dinoflagellate appearing to be less sensitive to sub‐optimal temperatures. Both species are governed by r‐type strategies and are subject to regulated growth. ThoughProrocentrum micansare known to feed on diatoms, we are unable to find evidence of feeding onPseudo‐nitzschia australis. We thus demonstrate that by fitting a diffusion model to an ecological dataset, one may learn much about the factors that affect the ecosystem. A good understanding of these factors is vital in order to manage an ecosystem appropriately.
Depression and Behavioral Disorders in Chronic Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Micali Elvira , Squadrito Giovanni , Raimondo Giovanni , Trimarchi Francesco , Abbate Carmelo
Published: August 2013

This study assesses behavioral disorders and depression in 50 patients with chronic viral hepatitis (32 patients with HBV and 18 patients with HCV). A psychodiagnostic protocol composed of the IBQ and the BDI was administered to the entire sample in two stages—at the time of recruitment (T1) and after 8 months, when patients were receiving pharmacological treatment (T2). The results showed a predominance of behavioral disorders and depression in patients with HCV compared to HBV patients, although all patients with chronic viral hepatitis, despite reduction in viral load, displayed reduced quality of working life and relationships.
TRIB3 Mediates Glucose-Induced Insulin Resistance via a Mechanism That Requires the Hexosamine Biosynthetic Pathway
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Jiarong , Tian Ling , Liu Qinglan , Fu Yuchang , Garvey W. Timothy
Published: August 2013

In the current study, we investigated the role of tribbles homolog 3 (TRIB3) in glucose-induced insulin resistance and whether the induction of TRIB3 by glucose is dependent on the nutrient-sensing hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP) known to mediate glucose toxicity in diabetes. In diabetic rats, TRIB3 expression in skeletal muscle was increased after 10 days of hyperglycemia, and glycemia and muscle TRIB3 were both restored toward normal by insulin therapy. In L6 myocytes, the induction of TRIB3 by high glucose or glucosamine was reversible upon removal of these substrates. To assess the role of HBP in the induction of TRIB3, we demonstrated that the ability of high glucose to augment TRIB3 expression was prevented by azaserine, an inhibitor of glutamine: fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase (GFAT), which is the rate-limiting enzyme in the HBP pathway. TRIB3 expression was also substantially stimulated by glucosamine, which bypasses GFAT, accompanied by a decrease in the insulin-stimulated glucose transport rate, and neither response was affected by azaserine. Further, knockdown of TRIB3 inhibited, and TRIB3 overexpression enhanced, the ability of both high glucose and glucosamine to induce insulin resistance. These data provide the mechanistic link between the HBP flux and insulin resistance and point to TRIB3 as a novel target for treatment of glucose-induced insulin resistance.
Glucose-6-Phosphate–Mediated Activation of Liver Glycogen Synthase Plays a Key Role in Hepatic Glycogen Synthesis
Authors: von Wilamowitz-Moellendorff Alexander , Hunter Roger W. , García-Rocha Mar , Kang Li , López-Soldado Iliana , Lantier Louise , Patel Kashyap , Peggie Mark W. , Martínez-Pons Carlos , Voss Martin , Calbó Joaquim , Cohen Patricia T.W. , Wasserman David H. , Guinovart Joan J. , Sakamoto Kei
Published: August 2013

The liver responds to an increase in blood glucose levels in the postprandial state by uptake of glucose and conversion to glycogen. Liver glycogen synthase (GYS2), a key enzyme in glycogen synthesis, is controlled by a complex interplay between the allosteric activator glucose-6-phosphate (G6P) and reversible phosphorylation through glycogen synthase kinase-3 and the glycogen-associated form of protein phosphatase 1. Here, we initially performed mutagenesis analysis and identified a key residue (Arg582) required for activation of GYS2 by G6P. We then used GYS2 Arg582Ala knockin (+/R582A) mice in which G6P-mediated GYS2 activation had been profoundly impaired (60–70%), while sparing regulation through reversible phosphorylation. R582A mutant–expressing hepatocytes showed significantly reduced glycogen synthesis with glucose and insulin or glucokinase activator, which resulted in channeling glucose/G6P toward glycolysis and lipid synthesis. GYS2+/R582A mice were modestly glucose intolerant and displayed significantly reduced glycogen accumulation with feeding or glucose load in vivo. These data show that G6P-mediated activation of GYS2 plays a key role in controlling glycogen synthesis and hepatic glucose-G6P flux control and thus whole-body glucose homeostasis.
Metabolomics Reveals Broad-Scale Metabolic Perturbations in Hyperglycemic Mothers During Pregnancy
Authors: Scholtens Denise M. , Muehlbauer Michael J. , Daya Natalie R. , Stevens Robert D. , Dyer Alan R. , Lowe Lynn P. , Metzger Boyd E. , Newgard Christopher B. , Bain James R. , Lowe William L. ,   for the HAPO Study Cooperative Research Group
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE

To characterize metabolites across the range of maternal glucose by comparing metabolomic profiles of mothers with high and low fasting plasma glucose (FPG).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We compared fasting serum from an oral glucose tolerance test at ∼28 weeks’ gestation from 67 Northern European ancestry mothers from the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome (HAPO) Study with high (>90th percentile) FPG with 50 mothers with low (<10th percentile) FPG but comparable BMI. Metabolic data from biochemical analyses of conventional clinical metabolites, targeted mass spectrometry (MS)-based measurement of amino acids, and nontargeted gas chromatography/MS were subjected to per-metabolite analyses and collective pathway analyses using Unipathway annotation.

RESULTS

High-FPG mothers had a metabolic profile consistent with insulin resistance including higher triglycerides, 3-hydroxybutyrate, and amino acids including alanine, proline, and branched-chain amino acids (false discovery rate [FDR]-adjusted P < 0.05). Lower 1,5-anhydroglucitol in high-FPG mothers suggested recent hyperglycemic excursions (FDR-adjusted P < 0.05). Pathway analyses indicated differences in amino acid degradation pathways for the two groups (FDR-adjusted P < 0.05), consistent with population-based findings in nonpregnant populations. Exploratory analyses with newborn outcomes indicated positive associations for maternal triglycerides with neonatal sum of skinfolds and cord C-peptide and a negative association between maternal glycine and cord C-peptide (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolomics reveals perturbations in metabolism of major macronutrients and amino acid degradation pathways in high- versus low-FPG mothers.
GLP-1 Responses Are Heritable and Blunted in Acquired Obesity With High Liver Fat and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Matikainen Niina , Bogl Leonie H. , Hakkarainen Antti , Lundbom Jesper , Lundbom Nina , Kaprio Jaakko , Rissanen Aila , Holst Jens J. , Pietiläinen Kirsi H.
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE

Impaired incretin response represents an early and uniform defect in type 2 diabetes, but the contributions of genes and the environment are poorly characterized.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 35 monozygotic (MZ) and 75 dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs (discordant and concordant for obesity) to determine the heritability of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) responses to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and the influence of acquired obesity to GLP-1, glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), and peptide YY (PYY) during OGTT or meal test.

RESULTS

The heritability of GLP-1 area under the curve was 67% (95% CI 45–80). Cotwins from weight-concordant MZ and DZ pairs and weight-discordant MZ pairs but concordant for liver fat content demonstrated similar glucose, insulin, and incretin profiles after the OGTT and meal tests. In contrast, higher insulin responses and blunted 60-min GLP-1 responses during the OGTT were observed in the heavier as compared with leaner MZ cotwins discordant for BMI, liver fat, and insulin sensitivity. Blunted GLP-1 response to OGTT was observed in heavier as compared with leaner DZ cotwins discordant for obesity and insulin sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Whereas the GLP-1 response to the OGTT is heritable, an acquired unhealthy pattern of obesity characterized by liver fat accumulation and insulin resistance is closely related to impaired GLP-1 response in young adults.
Gnathostoma binucleatum antigens induce peripheral blood lymphocytic cells proliferation
Authors: Zambrano-Zaragoza J. , J. Durán-Avelar M. , Messina-Robles M. , Vibanco-Pérez N.
Published: August 2013

Gnathostomiasis is an emerging infectious disease, in which the agent Gnathostoma binucleatum is the only species known to infect humans in Mexico. Although the humoral immune response to G. binucleatum has been analyzed previously, here we evaluated the lymphoproliferative response of peripheral blood lymphocytic cells from patients clinically diagnosed with gnathostomiasis against a crude extract of G. binucleatum using the MTT method, and compared the response to that of healthy subjects. No differences in the response to concanavalin A were found between the groups; however, the response to the crude extract was statistically higher in patients compared to healthy controls (1.188 ± 0.135, and 1.000 ± 0.045, p = 0.0004). Patients at > 6 months after diagnosis showed a higher lymphoproliferative response than the group of healthy subjects, and those at < 6 months after diagnosis (p = 0.0001, and 0.0164 respectively). These data suggest that the parasite induces non-protective immunological memory.
Speech Is Silver, Silence Is Golden
Authors: Andersson Ola , Holm Hakan
Published: August 2013

This paper experimentally investigates free-riding behavior on communication cost in a coordination game and finds strong indications of such free-riding. Firstly, the subjects wait for others to send a message when communication is costly, which does not happen when communication is costless. Secondly, the proportion of games where no communication or one-way communication takes place is much higher when communication is costly compared to when it is free.