bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LRH-1 Governs Vital Transcriptional Programs in Endocrine-Sensitive and -Resistant Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Bianco Stéphanie , Brunelle Mylène , Jangal Maïka , Magnani Luca , Gévry Nicolas
Published: February 2014

Tumor characteristics are decisive in the determination of treatment strategy for patients with breast cancer. Patients with estrogen receptor α (ERα)–positive breast cancer can benefit from long-term hormonal treatment. Nonetheless, the majority of patients will develop resistance to these therapies. Here, we investigated the role of the nuclear receptor liver receptor homolog-1 (LRH-1, NR5A2) in antiestrogen-sensitive and -resistant breast cancer cells. We identified genome-wide LRH-1–binding sites using ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing), uncovering preferential binding to regions distal to transcriptional start sites. We further characterized these LRH-1–binding sites by integrating overlapping layers of specific chromatin marks, revealing that many LRH-1–binding sites are active and could be involved in long-range enhancer–promoter looping. Combined with transcriptome analysis of LRH-1–depleted cells, these results show that LRH-1 regulates specific subsets of genes involved in cell proliferation in antiestrogen-sensitive and antiestrogen-resistant breast cancer cells. Furthermore, the LRH-1 transcriptional program is highly associated with a signature of poor outcome and high-grade breast cancer tumors in vivo. Herein, we report the genome-wide location and molecular function of LRH-1 in breast cancer cells and reveal its therapeutic potential for the treatment of breast cancers, notably for tumors resistant to treatments currently used in therapies. Cancer Res; 74(7); 2015–25. ©2014 AACR.
The PAM50 Risk-of-Recurrence Score Predicts Risk for Late Distant Recurrence after Endocrine Therapy in Postmenopausal Women with Endocrine-Responsive Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Filipits Martin , Nielsen Torsten O. , Rudas Margaretha , Greil Richard , Stöger Herbert , Jakesz Raimund , Bago-Horvath Zsuzsanna , Dietze Otto , Regitnig Peter , Gruber-Rossipal Christine , Müller-Holzner Elisabeth , Singer Christian F. , Mlineritsch Brigitte , Dubsky Peter , Bauernhofer Thomas , Hubalek Michael , Knauer Michael , Trapl Harald , Fesl Christian , Schaper Carl , Ferree Sean , Liu Shuzhen , Cowens J. Wayne , Gnant Michael ,   for the Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group
Published: February 2014

Purpose: To assess the prognostic value of the PAM50 risk-of-recurrence (ROR) score on late distant recurrence (beyond 5 years after diagnosis and treatment) in a large cohort of postmenopausal, endocrine-responsive breast cancer patients.

Experimental Design: The PAM50 assay was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded whole-tumor sections of patients who had been enrolled in the Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group Trial 8 (ABCSG-8). RNA expression levels of the PAM50 genes were determined centrally using the nCounter Dx Analysis System. Late distant recurrence-free survival (DRFS) was analyzed using Cox models adjusted for clinical and pathologic parameters.

Results: PAM50 analysis was successfully performed in 1,246 ABCSG-8 patients. PAM50 ROR score and ROR-based risk groups provided significant additional prognostic information with respect to late DRFS compared with a combined score of clinical factors alone (ROR score: ΔLRχ2 15.32, P < 0.001; ROR-based risk groups: ΔLRχ2 14.83, P < 0.001). Between years 5 and 15, we observed an absolute risk of distant recurrence of 2.4% in the low ROR-based risk group, as compared with 17.5% in the high ROR-based risk group. The DRFS differences according to the PAM50 ROR score were observed for both node-positive and node-negative disease.

Conclusion: PAM50 ROR score and ROR-based risk groups can differentiate patients with breast cancer with respect to their risk for late distant recurrence beyond what can be achieved with established clinicopathologic risk factors. Clin Cancer Res; 20(5); 1298–305. ©2014 AACR.
An In Vivo Functional Screen Identifies ST6GalNAc2 Sialyltransferase as a Breast Cancer Metastasis Suppressor
Authors: Murugaesu Nirupa , Iravani Marjan , van Weverwijk Antoinette , Ivetic Aleksandar , Johnson Damian A. , Antonopoulos Aristotelis , Fearns Antony , Jamal-Hanjani Mariam , Sims David , Fenwick Kerry , Mitsopoulos Costas , Gao Qiong , Orr Nick , Zvelebil Marketa , Haslam Stuart M. , Dell Anne , Yarwood Helen , Lord Christopher J. , Ashworth Alan , Isacke Clare M.
Published: February 2014

To interrogate the complex mechanisms involved in the later stages of cancer metastasis, we designed a functional in vivo RNA interference (RNAi) screen combined with next-generation sequencing. Using this approach, we identified the sialyltransferase ST6GalNAc2 as a novel breast cancer metastasis suppressor. Mechanistically, ST6GalNAc2 silencing alters the profile of O-glycans on the tumor cell surface, facilitating binding of the soluble lectin galectin-3. This then enhances tumor cell retention and emboli formation at metastatic sites leading to increased metastatic burden, events that can be completely blocked by galectin-3 inhibition. Critically, elevated ST6GALNAC2, but not galectin-3, expression in estrogen receptor–negative breast cancers significantly correlates with reduced frequency of metastatic events and improved survival. These data demonstrate that the prometastatic role of galectin-3 is regulated by its ability to bind to the tumor cell surface and highlight the potential of monitoring ST6GalNAc2 expression to stratify patients with breast cancer for treatment with galectin-3 inhibitors.

Significance: RNAi screens have the potential to uncover novel mechanisms in metastasis but do not necessarily identify clinically relevant therapeutic targets. Our demonstration that the sialyltransferase ST6GalNAc2 acts as a metastasis suppressor by impairing binding of galectin-3 to the tumor cell surface offers the opportunity to identify patients with breast cancer suitable for treatment with clinically well-tolerated galectin-3 inhibitors. Cancer Discov; 4(3); 304–17. ©2014 AACR.

See related commentary by Ferrer and Reginato, p. 275

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 259
Prevention of Arteriovenous Shunt Occlusion Using Microbubble and Ultrasound Mediated Thromboprophylaxis
Authors: Kutty Shelby , Wu Juefei , Hammel James M. , Abraham Joseph R. , Venkataraman Jeeva , Abdullah Ibrahim , Danford David A. , Radio Stanley J. , Lof John , Porter Thomas R.
Published: February 2014

Background

Palliative shunts in congenital heart disease patients are vulnerable to thrombotic occlusion. High mechanical index (
MI
) impulses from a modified diagnostic ultrasound (
US
) transducer during a systemic microbubble (
MB
) infusion have been used to dissolve intravascular thrombi without anticoagulation, and we sought to determine whether this technique could be used prophylactically to reduce thrombus burden and prevent occlusion of surgically placed extracardiac shunts.

Methods and Results

Heparin‐bonded e
PTFE
tubular vascular shunts of 4 mm×2.5 cm (Propaten; W.L Gore) were surgically placed in 18 pigs: a right‐sided side‐to‐side arteriovenous (
AV
, carotid‐jugular) shunt, and a left‐sided arterio‐arterial (
AA
, carotid‐carotid) interposition shunt in each animal. After shunt implantation, animals were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups. Transcutaneous, weekly 30‐minute treatments (total of 4 treatments) of either guided high
MI US
+
MB
(Group 1; n=6) using a 3% MRX‐801
MB
infusion, or
US
alone (Group 2; n=6) were given separately to each shunt. The third group of 6 pigs received no treatments. The shunts were explanted after 4 weeks and analyzed by histopathology to quantify luminal thrombus area (mm
2
) for the length of each shunt. No pigs received antiplatelet agents or anticoagulants during the treatment period. The median overall thrombus burden in the 3 groups for
AV
shunts was 5.10 mm
2
compared with 4.05 mm
2
in
AA
(
P
=0.199). Group 1 pigs had significantly less thrombus burden in the
AV
shunts (median 2.5 mm
2
) compared with Group 2 (median 5.6 mm
2
) and Group 3 (median 7.5 mm
2
) pigs (
P
=0.006). No difference in thrombus burden was seen between groups for
AA
shunts.

Conclusion

Transcutaneous
US
with intravenous
MB
is capable of preventing thrombus accumulation in arteriovenous shunts without the need for antiplatelet agents, and may be a method of preventing progressive occlusion of palliative shunts.
Systematic Review, Critical Appraisal, and Analysis of the Quality of Economic Evaluations in Stroke Imaging
Authors: Burton Kirsteen R. , Perlis Nathan , Aviv Richard I. , Moody Alan R. , Kapral Moira K. , Krahn Murray D. , Laupacis Andreas
Published: February 2014

Background and Purpose—

This study reviews the quality of economic evaluations of imaging after acute stroke and identifies areas for improvement.

Methods—

We performed full-text searches of electronic databases that included Medline, Econlit, the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database, and the Tufts Cost Effectiveness Analysis Registry through July 2012. Search strategy terms included the following: stroke*; cost*; or cost–benefit analysis*; and imag*. Inclusion criteria were empirical studies published in any language that reported the results of economic evaluations of imaging interventions for patients with stroke symptoms. Study quality was assessed by a commonly used checklist (with a score range of 0% to 100%).

Results—

Of 568 unique potential articles identified, 5 were included in the review. Four of 5 articles were explicit in their analysis perspectives, which included healthcare system payers, hospitals, and stroke services. Two studies reported results during a 5-year time horizon, and 3 studies reported lifetime results. All included the modified Rankin Scale score as an outcome measure. The median quality score was 84.4% (range=71.9%–93.5%). Most studies did not consider the possibility that patients could not tolerate contrast media or could incur contrast-induced nephropathy. Three studies compared perfusion computed tomography with unenhanced computed tomography but assumed that outcomes guided by the results of perfusion computed tomography were equivalent to outcomes guided by the results of magnetic resonance imaging or noncontrast computed tomography.

Conclusions—

Economic evaluations of imaging modalities after acute ischemic stroke were generally of high methodological quality. However, important radiology-specific clinical components were missing from all of these analyses.
Literacy, Sosŏl, and Women in Book Culture in Late Chosŏn Korea
Authors: Lee Ji-Eun
Published: February 2014

Abstract

In an effort to better understand the rise of discourse on women vis-à-vis the impact of the modern, this paper discusses issues of gender in the context of pre-twentieth-century reading practices in Korea. The usual trajectory of scholarship on pre-twentieth-century book culture first associates women with indigenous script (han’gŭl), then links them with the literary genre of the novel, and thus defines women as the main reader group for novels written in han’gŭl. However, low literacy rates and socio-cultural factors surrounding Chosŏn women challenge rather than support this association. Existing scholarship also does not provide a convincing picture of the changes in reading practices and the roles of women as readers and writers in the transition from pre-modern to modern Korea. In examining how reading materials circulated and re-assessing claims that novels in han’gŭl constituted a women’s genre, this article calls for a more sensitive, critical and nuanced understanding of gender categories as they are deployed in literary scholarship. Indeed, it sees the juncture of ‘women’, mun / munhak, and the role of women in Korean literature as a site for re-evaluating the intricate mechanics of gender relations in Korea.
New species and records of scale mites (Acari: Pterygosomatidae) from Arabian agamid lizards (Squamata: Agamidae)
Authors: FAJFER MONIKA , MELNIKOV DANIEL
Published: February 2014

Two new species of pterygosomatid mites parasitizing lizards of the family Agamidae are described: Pterygosoma aqabensis sp. nov. from Pseudotrapelus aqabensis Melnikov et al. and Pterygosoma dhofarensis sp.nov. from Pseudotrapelus dhofarensis Melnikov and Pierson both from Arabian Peninsula. Pterygosoma aqabensis sp. nov. is most closely related to P. dhofarensis sp. nov. but differs by the presence of subcapitular setae n, setae vFI and vGIV, 14–21 pairs of the antero-dorsal setae, 4 pairs of dorso-median setae dm, 5–6 pairs of the postero-lateral setae and 7 pairs of pseudoanal setae ps, palp setae dG and dF are subequal in the length and setae vm3 are slightly serrated. P. dhofarensis sp. nov. is similar to P. sinaita Jack, 1961 but in the new species setae dm1 are serrated and setae dm2 are filiform, 3 or 4 pairs of the medio-lateral setae and 2 pairs of peripheral setae are present, setae dGI are absent. A redescription of Pterygosoma adramitana Jack, 1961 from the type host Acanthocercus adramitanus (Anderson) (Agamidae) is given.
A new species of Aricoris Westwood, [1851] belonging to “chilensis” group (Lepidoptera: Riodinidae)
Authors: SIEWERT RICARDO RUSSO , DOLIBAINA DIEGO RODRIGO , MIELKE OLAF HERMANN HENDRIK , CASAGRANDE MIRNA MARTINS , MOSER ALFRED
Published: February 2014

A new species of Riodinidae from the grasslands of South Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina, Aricoris schneideri sp. nov., is described.
Two new potamid crabs, Yuexipotamon arcophallus new genus, new species and Minutomon shanweiense new genus, new species, (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura: Potamidae) from southern China
Authors: HUANG CHAO , MAO SI YING
Published: February 2014

Two new Chinese genera and species of freshwater crabs, Yuexipotamon arcophallus, new genus, new species, and Minutomon shanweiense, new genus, new species, are described from Zhaoqing City and Shanwei City, respectively. The former is superficially closest to Huananpotamon Dai & Ng, 1994, while the latter resembles Sinopotamon Bott, 1967, and Mediapotamon Dai, 1995. The two new genera, however, possess distinctive combinations of carapace, third maxilliped, male thoracic sternal and first gonopodal characters that easily distinguish them from other genera. Notes on the general biology of the two new species are also given.
Shortcrowna, a new genus of Evacanthinae (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) from China
Authors: LI YU-JIAN , LI ZI-ZHONG
Published: February 2014

The paper deals with a new leafhopper genus of Evacanthinae, Shortcrowna gen. nov., and four species of the genus, including three new combinations and one new species, Shortcrowna biguttata (Li & Wang, 2002) comb. nov., Shortcrowna flavocapitata (Kato, 1933) comb. nov., Shortcrowna nigrimargina (Li & Wang, 2002) comb. nov., Shortcrowna leishanensis sp. nov.. The differences between the new genus and the closely related genus Bundera Distant are discussed. A key to distinguish all species of the genus is given, and illustrations of genitalia are provided. The type specimens of new species are deposited in the Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University (GUGC).
A new species of Hetereleotris (Perciformes: Gobiidae) from the Red Sea
Authors: KOVAČIĆ MARCELO , BOGORODSKY SERGEY V.
Published: February 2014

A new species of the genus Hetereleotris is described from the Gulf of Aqaba, Red Sea, on the basis of two specimens. Hetereleotris psammophila sp. nov. is unique among the species of the genus Hetereleotris, except for H. diademata, in lacking scales and head pores. The new species differs from the morphologically similar H. diademata in having fewer rays in the second dorsal and anal fins, and in coloration. The habitat preference of the new species for open sand area close to coral reefs in 8–21 m and its nocturnal habits are unusual for species of the genus Hetereleotris.
Evolution of Total Atmospheric Ozone from 1900 to 2100 Estimated with Statistical Models
Authors: Lean Judith L.
Published: February 2014

Statistical models that account for the separate influences on total atmospheric ozone of ozone-depleting substances, anthropogenic greenhouse gases, and natural processes are formulated from the Merged Ozone Data (MOD V8 and V8.6) and used to explore scenarios for ozone’s evolution from 1900 to 2100. The statistical models based on MOD V8 project larger growth in total ozone during the twenty-first century than do coupled chemistry–climate models globally and in the tropics where the chemistry–climate models indicate persistent ozone depletion. The statistical models based on MOD V8.6 suggest, instead, that total ozone everywhere never (or barely) recovers to 1980 levels. Since the decline in ozone-depleting substances and the increase in greenhouse gas concentrations are both expected to increase ozone in the twenty-first century, these results suggest that downward instrumental drifts may be present in MOD V8.6. Instrumental drifts, of opposite sign, may also be present in MOD V8 since it is possible to reduce the projections of the corresponding statistical models to agree with those of the chemistry–climate models by altering the long-term trends of the MOD V8 data within the estimated long-term uncertainty. Alternatively, the chemistry–climate models may project excess tropical ozone depletion by overestimating trends in the upwelling of tropical (ozone poor) air associated with global warming and the resultant decline in mean age of air. This possibility is consistent with independent observations that the age of stratospheric air has not declined during the past three decades, as the globe has warmed 0.3°C, and that model parameterizations of tropical convection may be inadequate.
The mechanically contaminated layer theory of sand-filled fibreglass-reinforced polyester pipes: An explanation of the initial process for the mechanical and hydrolytical behaviour of massive pipeline failures
Authors: Marco-Ayala Carlos , Salete Eduardo , Marco Carlos J
Published: February 2014

This investigation describes the fracture mechanism which explains a significant part of massive failures due to the existence of a sand layer placed near the neutral axis in the core making the composite very sensitive to impacts in fibreglass-reinforced polyester pipes. These failures create interface delamination, and consequently fluid can leak into supporting sand backfill thereby initiating the fracture process that can, at times include resin hydrolysis. In order to assess the delamination magnitude, an analytic method is developed and a squared root law between delamination and energy applied proposed. Vertical blunt ram tests on samples extracted from complete pipes have been carried out to verify this theory, reaching a goodness of fit up to 92%. It is concluded that low-energy impacts, around 90–160 J in 800–1000 diameter PN 16–20 continuous filament winding pipes, can seriously compromise their structural integrity with no external trace.
Navigating New Norms of Involved Fatherhood
Authors: McGill Brittany S.
Published: February 2014

In the context of the gender revolution, contemporary norms of fatherhood emphasize men’s involvement with their children in addition to their traditional role as financial provider. These “new fathers” are expected to be more equal partners in parenting, nurturing children, and performing both interactive and physical caregiving. However, the roles of provider and involved father may conflict: Whereas the “new father” role requires spending time with children, the “provider” role requires commitment to spending time on the job. Using two waves of the Child Development Supplement to the Panel Study of Income Dynamics ( N = 1,139), this study examines the relationship between employment and father involvement and whether fathering attitudes moderate that relationship. Results suggest work hours are not strongly related to father involvement. Despite generally long work hours, a subgroup of “new fathers” appear better able to preserve time with children, likely by cutting back on, or incorporating their children into, their leisure time.
Tonsillectomy for Recurrent Sore Throats in Children: Indications, Outcomes, and Efficacy
Authors: Barraclough James , Anari Shahram
Published: February 2014

Objective

To perform a comprehensive narrative review of the literature to provide a better understanding of the indications, outcomes, and efficacy of tonsillectomy for recurrent sore throats in children. This article explores the reasons why there is a lack of robust clinical evidence for its efficacy despite good evidence of positive reported outcomes from parents of children who undergo the procedure.

Data Sources

Articles published between 1960 and July 2013 were searched in PubMed and Cochrane databases.

Review Methods

A narrative review method was adopted to provide a comprehensive overview of articles. Only individual, interventional studies on children (0‐16 years old) undergoing tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy for recurrent sore throats with greater than 1 month of follow‐up were included.

Conclusions

The inclusion criteria and outcome measures in the studies were varied, but most investigated changes in symptoms related to sore throats or illness episodes. Quality‐of‐life tools validated for measuring pediatric outcomes were used in a number of more recent studies. None of the outcome measures were specific for recurrent sore throats in children. No qualitative method designed studies were identified.

Implications for Practice

The disparity between parental satisfaction rates and published clinical efficacy can be explained by a lack of parent/child outcome measures specific to tonsillectomy for recurrent sore throats. A more parent/child‐centered approach may establish what tonsillectomy could offer this group of children.
Chest wall malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in a 21-year old female
Authors: Sudhakar Deepthi , Nelson Lars , Herrera Luis
Published: February 2014

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are aggressive sarcomas that derive from peripheral nerve cells and are associated with a poor prognosis. We report a rare case of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in the anterior chest wall of a 21-year-old female. The patient underwent induction chemotherapy, and resection of the mass with negative margins. She subsequently underwent radiation therapy.
A tale of two ships: the Spanish Civil War reaches the British coast
Authors: Coni Nicholas
Published: February 2014

On 2 November 1938 one of General Franco’s warships shelled and sank a Spanish merchant ship nine miles from the east coast of England. The captain and his family were rescued by the local lifeboat and the human story, as well as the proximity of the incident to the coast of Great Britain, aroused considerable public interest there. Although not in itself a particularly momentous occurrence in such a destructive war, the sequence of events leading up to the convergence of the two ships on a distant coastline does cast some light on a most neglected aspect of that war—the struggle between the opposing navies to impede the transport of essential supplies to the enemy’s ports. It also has ramifications involving naval intelligence, maritime law and the international tensions affecting seafaring nations during the conflict. The political fallout in the UK hinged on the debate as to whether the episode constituted an act of piracy. The subsequent fates of the captain and crew of the sunken ship reflect the ethos of the times. The encounter is most unlikely to have been random and although conspiracy theories are extremely attractive and there is no shortage of candidates, it is unlikely that the identity of the conspirators will ever be known.
Longitudinal Predictors of Women’s Experiences of Social Reactions Following Intimate Partner Abuse
Authors: DePrince Anne P. , Welton-Mitchell Courtney , Srinivas Tejaswinhi
Published: February 2014

Researchers using the Social Reactions Questionnaire (SRQ; Ullman, 2000) have documented links between women’s perceptions of social reactions following sexual assault and trauma-related distress (e.g., self-blame, problem drinking, and posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD] symptoms). The SRQ has been used primarily with female sexual assault victims with instructions to think about reactions from other people told about the assault. Research has generally relied on cross-sectional methods and assumed that social reactions lead to trauma-related outcomes. Reliance on cross-sectional methods has impeded testing assumptions about directionality (e.g., trauma-related distress might increase negative social reactions from others). Furthermore, links between victims’ reports of negative social reactions and distress might reflect an overall negative reporting bias. The current study examined women’s perceptions of social reactions for an incident of intimate partner abuse (IPA) reported to law enforcement. At a baseline interview (within approximately 28 days of the IPA incident), we assessed demographic factors, characteristics of the IPA, and social support as well as depression and PTSD symptom severity. One year later, PTSD symptom severity consistently predicted women’s reports of negative social reactions from others, though not positive social reactions. This research advances understanding of social reactions and points to the role that PTSD symptom severity may have in contributing to social reactions, not only being a consequence of social reactions.
Healing the Wounds
Authors: Baldwin Julie Marie , Rukus Joseph
Published: February 2014

Controversy exists regarding whether specialized courts, specifically drug courts, adhere to the restorative justice model. Veterans treatment courts (VTCs) are the newest programmatic innovation in the specialized court arena and have not been widely studied to date. This study utilizes data from the first in-depth case study of a VTC and explores whether it embodies the restorative justice ideal. Using both quantitative and qualitative data, we find that the VTC does not fully embody the restorative justice agenda, but it adheres closer to the ideal than drug courts.
Hymen Tearing in the Treatment of Vaginal Agenesis
Authors: Yaman Şengül , Ayaz Sultan
Published: February 2014

Rupture of the hymen before marriage is a significant problem for a woman and her family. The purpose of this article is to present a case report where hymen membrane perforation was required for vaginal agenesis in a 13-year-old adolescent, identify psychosocial issues related to the torn hymen in the Turkish culture, discuss gender inequality affecting health care of women with a torn hymen, identify the impact of a torn hymen on a Turkish woman’s social status, and discuss health care implications for the woman and her family. The girl could not understand the situation and experienced feelings of guilt. The parents displayed an intense reaction of shock and denial after being informed about the disorder and treatment process and felt a sense of hopelessness about the future of their daughter. Nurses are expected to fulfill their training, counseling, and advocacy roles about this issue.
Multi-State Survey of Support Brokers in Cash and Counseling Programs
Authors: Jeon Haesang , Mahoney Kevin J. , Loughlin Dawn M. , Simon-Rusinowitz Lori
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this study is to learn how support brokers (program counselors) carry out and are prepared for their roles in participant-directed programs. More specifically, this study looks at support brokers’ self-perceived roles, training, educational backgrounds, and how well they feel they are prepared for their jobs with Cash and Counseling programs. This study involves two phases of data collection. First, a 20-item survey was sent electronically to support brokers in three states ( n = 138) in 2011. Descriptive statistics and t tests were used for the analysis. The second phase involves follow-up telephone interviews ( n = 15) with a convenience sample who agreed to participate. Results showed an inconsistency in role definitions and types of training between and within individual states. Moreover, educational backgrounds had a significant influence on the level of support brokers’ perceived preparedness for given tasks. Finally, this study identifies areas that support brokers believe will help improve their performance.
Effect of sorghum flour composition and particle size on quality properties of gluten-free bread
Authors: Trappey Emily Frederick , Khouryieh Hanna , Aramouni Fadi , Herald Thomas
Published: February 2014

White, food-grade sorghum was milled to flour of varying extraction rates (60%, 80%, and 100%) and pin-milled at different speeds (no pin-milling, low-speed, and high-speed) to create flours of both variable composition and particle size. Flours were characterized for flour composition, total starch content, particle size distribution, color, damaged starch, and water absorption. Bread was characterized for specific volume, crumb structure properties, and crumb firmness. Significant differences were found ( P < 0.05) in the composition of sorghum flours of varying extraction rate, most notably for fiber and total starch contents. Flour particle size and starch damage were significantly impacted by extraction rate and speed of pin-milling. Water absorption increased significantly with increasing extraction rate and pin-milling speed. Breads produced from 60% extraction flour had significantly higher specific volumes, better crumb properties, and lower crumb firmness when compared with all other extractions and flour types. The specific volume of bread slices ranged from 2.01 mL/g (100% extraction, no pin-milling) to 2.54 mL/g (60% extraction, low-speed pin-milling), whereas the firmness ranged from 553.28 g (60% extraction, high-speed pin-milling) to 1096.26 g (commercial flour, no pin-milling). The bread characteristics were significantly impacted by flour properties, specifically particle size, starch damage, and fiber content ( P < 0.05).
Spatial Experiences of Female Cancer Survivors
Authors: Laranjeira Carlos , Ponce Leão Paula , Leal Isabel
Published: February 2014

A phenomenological approach of the home can inspire research of the ways in which female cancer survivors experience the transition from the oncology care setting to home. Ten gynecological cancer survivors were interviewed. The analysis was inspired by the hermeneutic approach described by Ricoeur, and followed an interpretive structure that consisted of naïve reading, structural analysis, and comprehensive understanding. Based on the women’s stories, we argue that we are beings for whom home is a developed extension of ourselves, and one that is particularly significant insofar as it provides us with a basis from which we find ourselves able to expand into a larger “space”—a world. Information from this study could provide guidelines for health care staff members.
The State of Survey Methodology
Authors: Stern Michael J. , Bilgen Ipek , Dillman Don A.
Published: February 2014

In this overview, we discuss the current state of survey methodology in a form that is useful and informative to a general social science audience. The article covers existing challenges, dilemmas, and opportunities for survey researchers and social scientists. We draw on the most current research to articulate our points; however, we also speculate on both technological and cultural changes that currently influence or may soon affect the efficacy of different methodological choices.
High-Impact, Self-Motivated Training Within an Enriched Environment With Single Animal Tracking Dose-Dependently Promotes Motor Skill Acquisition and Functional Recovery
Authors: Starkey Michelle L. , Bleul Christiane , Kasper Hansjörg , Mosberger Alice C. , Zörner Björn , Giger Stefan , Gullo Miriam , Buschmann Frank , Schwab Martin E.
Published: February 2014

Functional recovery following central nervous system injuries is strongly influenced by rehabilitative training. In the clinical setting, the intensity of training and the level of motivation for a particular task are known to play important roles. With increasing neuroscience studies investigating the effects of training and rehabilitation, it is important to understand how the amount and type of training of individuals influences outcome. However, little is known about the influence of spontaneous “self-training” during daily life as it is often uncontrolled, not recorded, and mostly disregarded. Here, we investigated the effects of the intensity of self-training on motor skill acquisition in normal, intact rats and on the recovery of functional motor behavior following spinal cord injury in adult rats. We used a custom-designed small animal tracking system, “RatTrack,” to continuously record the activity of multiple rats, simultaneously in a complex Natural Habitat–enriched environment. Naïve, adult rats performed high-intensity, self-motivated motor training, which resulted in them out-performing rats that were conventionally housed and trained on skilled movement tasks, for example, skilled prehension (grasping) and ladder walking. Following spinal cord injury the amount of self-training was correlated with improved functional recovery. These data suggest that high-impact, self-motivated training leads to superior skill acquisition and functional recovery than conventional training paradigms. These findings have important implications for the design of animal studies investigating rehabilitation and for the planning of human rehabilitation programs.
Transgender Policy
Authors: Kaiser Matthew M. , Seitz Keshia M. , Walters Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2014

Ritha Smith, assistant superintendent, and Seth Hanson, principal, are faced with a difficult decision. Taylor Harper is a transgender student who identifies as male and is openly attracted to females. Taylor’s parents, Lane and Morgan Harper, are lesbians; they are fully supportive of their child’s identification and are well versed in their legal rights. Madison Booth is in Physical Education [PE] class and shares a locker room with Taylor. She and her parents question her safety and security in the locker room. Ritha and Seth must consider the policy and rights for transgender, homosexual, and heterosexual students. The decision will have implications for students and policies in the schools as well as the community values with parents, board members, and constituents in the surrounding areas. This case poses discussions, questions, and activities about ethical and moral standings, policies, critical theory and queer theory, and legal frameworks. The case also presents ways to use literature and media to further enlighten the discussion.
Using a template to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test: A comparative study
Authors: Harte Daniel , Curran Denise , Hamill Philip , Porter-Armstrong Alison , Wilson Lynn
Published: February 2014

Introduction

The Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test is a standardised assessment that relies upon precise test administration through the placement of a number of small items in each subset. This set up has been criticised in the literature as being time consuming and open to non-precision error in item placement. This study investigates whether application of a novel template board to the testing procedure of the Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test enhances accuracy and reduces the clinical time taken to administer the test when compared to non-template-based testing practices.

Methods

The template board was marked to highlight where each test item should precisely be located during subtest administration. Additionally, three therapists completed 10 timed trials each in test preparation and setting up subtests 2, 3, 6 and 7 with and without the template to assess efficiency.

Results

Results show that set up without using a template resulted in an average total of 10% accuracy in subtest 2, 0% accuracy in subtest 3 and 3.33% accuracy in subtests 6 and 7. The acceptable value on these tests to demonstrate accuracy is 100% ( p < 0.05). The results also demonstrate that the total time to complete test set up was significantly less when using the template board ( p < 0.05).

Discussion

This study demonstrates the difficulty in achieving accuracy without a template board and the associated inefficiencies. The availability of standardised assessments that are easy to use in clinical practice and that have sound reliability, validity and responsiveness is necessary to objectively and accurately measure hand function.
Acceleration With Steering
Authors: Galinsky Adam D. , Magee Joe C. , Rus Diana , Rothman Naomi B. , Todd Andrew R.
Published: February 2014

Power is a psychological accelerator, propelling people toward their goals; however, these goals are often egocentrically focused. Perspective-taking is a psychological steering wheel that helps people navigate their social worlds; however, perspective-taking needs a catalyst to be effective. The current research explores whether combining power with perspective-taking can lead to fairer interpersonal treatment and higher quality decisions by increasing other-oriented information sharing, the propensity to communicate and integrate information that recognizes the knowledge and interests of others. Experiments 1 and 2 found that the combining power with perspective-taking or accountability increased interactional justice, the tendency for decision makers to explain their decisions candidly and respectfully. Experiment 3 involved role-based power embedded in a face-to-face dyadic decision-making task; the combination of power and perspective-taking facilitated the sharing of critical information and led to more accurate dyadic decisions. Combining power and perspective-taking had synergistic effects, producing superior outcomes to what each one achieved separately.
Neoliberalism at Work
Authors: Crowley Martha , Hodson Randy
Published: February 2014

Organizational decision-makers increasingly promote neoliberal work practices, which emphasize market processes and unrestricted deployment of organizational resources, as a means to optimize economic performance in an intensely competitive environment. A growing number of sociologists have raised questions about their tactics and pointed to negative consequences for employee well-being. We expand on this literature by using content-coded data on 217 work groups to investigate implications of neoliberalism at work for well-being of workers and firms. We especially emphasize on how neoliberal practices influence relationships and day-to-day behaviors that underwrite organizational functioning and success. Findings indicate negative ramifications, including increases in turnover and quitting, and reductions in informal peer training and effort as well as job quality. Importantly, these associations are net of any secular time trend. Qualitative materials capture how and why these relations exist and additional consequences with strong potential to undermine foundations for prosperity and future organizational success.
Libraries, Social Movements, and Cultural Change
Authors: Snow David A. , Owens Peter B. , Tan Anna E.
Published: February 2014

While sociological conceptualizations of culture span a wide range of metaphors, from codes to elephants to toolkits, they are often insufficiently attuned to the processes through which cultural challenges are advanced by individual and collective actors, and the place of political and institutional power in constraining or nurturing these challenges. Drawing from relevant institutional and cultural theories, this article advances an alternative conceptualization of cultural systems as a vast and interconnected network of libraries. This new conceptualization offers three strengths over existing cultural approaches. First, libraries are viewed as dynamic repositories for cultural materials, containing vast holdings that may be accessed, used, and interpreted in unpredictable ways. Second, libraries are not neutral collection points but rather are enmeshed in a broad complex of forces that both organize and legitimate cultural resources through processes of selective acquisition, categorization, and preservation. Third, because of their entanglement in political and institutional power relations, libraries are often focal points for cultural contestation over the legitimate interpretations and uses of cultural resources. We focus on processes of cultural revitalization, fabrication, and canonization to illustrate the relationship between libraries and power relations, and provide examples of cultural challenges, from antiquity to the present day, via these contestational processes.
A systems-wide comparison of red rice (Oryza longistaminata) tissues identifies rhizome specific genes and proteins that are targets for cultivated rice improvement
Authors: He Ruifeng , Salvato Fernanda , Park Jeong-Jin , Kim Min-Jeong , Nelson William , Balbuena Tiago S , Willer Mark , Crow John A , May Greg D , Soderlund Carol A , Thelen Jay J , Gang David R
Published: February 2014

Background

The rhizome, the original stem of land plants, enables species to invade new territory and is a critical component of perenniality, especially in grasses. Red rice (Oryza longistaminata) is a perennial wild rice species with many valuable traits that could be used to improve cultivated rice cultivars, including rhizomatousness, disease resistance and drought tolerance. Despite these features, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that contribute to rhizome growth, development and function in this plant.

Results

We used an integrated approach to compare the transcriptome, proteome and metabolome of the rhizome to other tissues of red rice. 116 Gb of transcriptome sequence was obtained from various tissues and used to identify rhizome-specific and preferentially expressed genes, including transcription factors and hormone metabolism and stress response-related genes. Proteomics and metabolomics approaches identified 41 proteins and more than 100 primary metabolites and plant hormones with rhizome preferential accumulation. Of particular interest was the identification of a large number of gene transcripts fromMagnaportha oryzae, the fungus that causes rice blast disease in cultivated rice, even though the red rice plants showed no sign of disease.

Conclusions

A significant set of genes, proteins and metabolites appear to be specifically or preferentially expressed in the rhizome ofO. longistaminata. The presence ofM. oryzaegene transcripts at a high level in apparently healthy plants suggests that red rice is resistant to this pathogen, and may be able to provide genes to cultivated rice that will enable resistance to rice blast disease.
Psychological violence against pregnant women in a prenatal care cohort: rates and associated factors in São Luís, Brazil
Authors: Ribeiro Marizélia Rodrigues Costa , da Silva Antônio Augusto Moura , e Alves Maria Teresa Seabra Soares de Britt , Batista Rosângela Fernandes Lucena , de Rocha Lourdes Maria Leitão Nunes , Schraiber Lilia Blima , Medeiros Nilzângela Lima , Costa Danielle Cristina Silva , Bettiol Heloisa , Barbieri Marco Antônio
Published: February 2014

Background

Violence against pregnant women has been associated with gestational and perinatal disorders. Psychological violence is the type least investigated and its associated factors have been little studied. The present study was conducted in order to estimate prevalence rates and analyze the factors associated with exclusive and recurrent psychological violence in the municipality of São Luís, Brazil.

Methods

Data regarding 982 pregnant women, aged from 14 to 45 years, interviewed in 2010 and 2011 in a prenatal cohort were used. A self-applied questionnaire was used to screen for violence. Pregnant women submitted to physical and sexual violence were excluded from the analysis of factors associated with exclusive psychological violence. Prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated by a Poisson regression model with a hierarchical approach at three levels. At level 1 of the theoretical-conceptual model, we analyzed demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and variables that express gender inequalities; at level 2, we analyzed social support received by the women, and at level 3, the life experiences of the pregnant women.

Results

Prevalence rate of exclusive psychological violence was 41.6% and of recurrent violence was 32.6%. Exclusive psychological violence was associated with pregnant women’s age of 14 to 18 years (PR: 1.32 95% CI: 1.04 – 1.70), pregnant women’s schooling superior to that of her intimate partner (PR: 1.54 95% CI: 1.09 – 2.16), inadequate social affective support/positive social interaction (PR: 1.34 95% CI: 1.11 – 1.62), use of illicit drugs by the pregnant women (PR: 1.80 95% CI: 1.16 – 2.81) and having had six or more intimate partners in life (PR: 1.52 95% CI: 1.18 – 1.96). Recurrent exclusive psychological violence was associated with inadequate social affective support/positive social interaction (PR: 1.47 95% CI: 1.15 – 1.87), use of illicit drugs by the pregnant women (PR: 2,28 95% CI: 1,40 - 3,71) and having had six or more intimate partners in life (PR: 1.47 95% CI: 1.06 – 2.03).

Conclusions

Psychological violence was a common phenomenon in this population of pregnant women that was associated with gender inequalities, inadequate social support and illicit drug use and should be routinely investigated during prenatal visits at health care services.
Predictors of severity and outcome of global developmental delay without definitive etiologic yield: a prospective observational study
Authors: Thomaidis Loretta , Zantopoulos Georgios Zacharias , Fouzas Sotirios , Mantagou Lito , Bakoula Chryssa , Konstantopoulos Andreas
Published: February 2014

Background

Although several determinants of global developmental delay (GDD) have been recognized, a significant number of children remain without definitive etiologic diagnosis. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of various prenatal and perinatal factors on the severity and outcome of developmental delay without definitive etiologic yield.

Methods

From March 2008 to February 2010, 142 children with developmental quotient (DQ) <70 and without definitive etiologic diagnosis, were included. Prenatal and perinatal risk factors known to be associated with disordered neonatal brain function were identified. Participants underwent a thorough investigation, an individualized habilitation plan was recommended, and the children were followed-up regularly for a period of 2 < years. The effect of prenatal and perinatal risk factors on the severity and outcome of GDD was assessed by regression analysis.

Results

The mean age at enrolment was 31 ± 12 < months, and the mean DQ 52.2 ± 11.4. Prematurity and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) were found to be independently associated with lower DQ values. The mean DQ after the 2-year follow-up was 62.5 ± 12.7, and the DQ difference from the enrollment 10.4 ± 8.9 (median 10; range-10 to 42). DQ improvement (defined as a DQ difference?≥?median) was noted in 52.8% of the children. IUGR, low socio-economic status, and poor compliance to habilitation plan were found to be independently associated with poorer developmental outcomes.

Conclusions

Prematurity and IUGR were found to be significantly and independently related to the severity of GDD in cases without definitive etiologic yield. Poorer 2-year developmental outcome was associated with IUGR, low socioeconomic status and non compliance to habilitation plan. Prematurity was a significant determinant of the outcome only in association with the above mentioned factors.