bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Fight against the Influenza A Virus H1N1: Synthesis, Molecular Modeling, and Biological Evaluation of Benzofurazan Derivatives as Viral RNA Polymerase Inhibitors
Authors: Pagano Mafalda , Castagnolo Daniele , Bernardini Martina , Fallacara Anna Lucia , Laurenzana Ilaria , Deodato Davide , Kessler Ulrich , Pilger Beatrice , Stergiou Lilli , Strunze Stephan , Tintori Cristina , Botta Maurizio
Published: November 2013

The influenza RNA polymerase complex, which consists of the three subunits PA, PB1, and PB2, is a promising target for the development of new antiviral drugs. A large library of benzofurazan compounds was synthesized and assayed against influenza virus A/WSN/33 (H1N1). Most of the new derivatives were found to act by inhibiting the viral RNA polymerase complex through disruption of the complex formed between subunits PA and PB1. Docking studies were also performed to elucidate the binding mode of benzofurazans within the PB1 binding site in PA and to identify amino acids involved in their mechanism of action. The predicted binding pose is fully consistent with the biological data and lays the foundation for the rational development of more effective PA–PB1 inhibitors.
Steady‐state pharmacokinetics of sirolimus in stable adult Chinese renal transplant patients
Authors: Wang Huifen Faye , Qiu Feng , Wu Xiongfe , Fang Juanzhi , Crownover Penelope , Korth‐Bradley Joan , Schulman Seth
Published: November 2013

This open‐label, nonrandomized study was conducted to evaluate the steady‐state pharmacokinetics of sirolimus in 24 stable Chinese renal transplant patients receiving daily oral maintenance doses of sirolimus (1–4 mg). Repeated trough and serial whole blood sirolimus concentrations over a 24‐hour dosing interval were collected and assayed using high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS). Non‐compartmental analysis (NCA) was employed to calculate sirolimus pharmacokinetic parameters. Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A5 genotyping was performed. Cyclosporine (CsA) levels were determined for patients who took concomitant CsA. Mean (±SD) sirolimus maximum concentration (Cmax), area under the concentration–time curve within a dosing interval of τ (AUCτ), oral clearance (CL/F), and trough concentration (Ctrough) at steady state were: 14.1 ± 13.4 ng/mL, 199 ± 210 ng · h/mL, 10.1 ± 4.4 L/h, and 5.9 ± 6.3 ng/mL, respectively. Median tmax (range) was 2.49 hours (1–12 hours). A strong correlation was observed between Ctrough and AUCτ. Pharmacokinetics of sirolimus in patients with and without concomitant CsA were comparable. Allele frequency of CYP3A5*3 was 70.9% and a trend of higher oral clearance was observed in CYP3A5 expressers compared with non‐expressers although the number of subjects in each genotype was small.
The role of collegial alliance in family‐based treatment of adolescent anorexia nervosa: A pilot study
Authors: Murray Stuart B. , Griffiths Scott , Le Grange Daniel
Published: November 2013

Objective

In keeping with broader efforts to identify mediators and moderators of treatment outcome in anorexia nervosa, this pilot study investigated the association between collegial alliance, which refers to the perceived alliance between case‐involved professionals, and treatment outcomes in adolescent patients undergoing family‐based treatment (FBT) for anorexia nervosa.

Method

The self‐reported collegial alliance scores of five FBT practitioners were collected, alongside weight‐ and cognitive‐related outcomes for 29 consecutive cases of adolescent anorexia nervosa under their care.

Results

Collegial alliance discriminated between patients who dropped out of treatment and patients who completed treatment,t(27) = 3.68,p = .001,η2 = .33. Furthermore, there was a strong negative correlation between collegial alliance scores early on in treatment and disordered eating symptoms later in treatment,r(23) = −.67,p < .001. Moderate but non‐significant associations were observed between early collegial alliance and patient's percentage of expected body weight later in treatment,r(23) = .32,p = .13.

Discussion

These findings have important implications for the augmentation of FBT, suggesting that unity amongst clinicians promotes positive treatment outcomes, particularly with regard to disordered eating symptomatology. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2014; 47:418–421)
Hydraulic redistribution by plants and nutrient stoichiometry: Shifts under global change
Authors: Sardans Jordi , Peñuelas Josep
Published: November 2013

Hydraulic lift, water movement from deep to upper soil layers by roots, is a widespread process in temperate and semi‐arid environments. It can contribute 17–81% of total water transpired and favour the uptake of nutrients available mainly from soil organic matter decomposition (e.g. N). Downward siphoning, water movement from upper to deep soil layers, can represent 10–60% of total transpired water, favouring the uptake of nutrients supplied mainly from the leaching of bedrock minerals (e.g. P and K). These vertical water movements also can affect the N : P ratio of runoff waters when, in the case of hydraulic lift, they open the possibility for a given pulse of water to circulate multiple times across the N‐rich upper soil layers. Plants, thus, affect the stoichiometry of nutrients in soils and groundwater not only through the physical protection of the soil and through the water uptake but also through water redistribution. Soil water redistribution can also play an outstanding role in the ecosystem responses to global change drivers. The increase in soil patchiness in current and future arid lands modifies runoff fluxes, hydraulic lift and downward siphoning, allowing plants to dispose of higher water and nutrient availabilities. The higher use of hydraulic lift and/or downward siphoning by alien species is a possible cause of alien plant success. Further mechanistic and quantitative research is thus warranted to discern the plant role in water and nutrient cycling and in the responses to global change. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical simulation of dynamic processes of the methane migration and oxidation in landfill cover
Authors: Lei Liu , Qiang Xue , Yue Xu , Fu Yi , Ying Zhao
Published: November 2013

The coupling model of the multicomponent gas flow and transport was developed to describe methane oxidation in landfill cover. A two‐part simulation was carried out to investigate the dynamic processes of methane oxidation. The reliability of the coupling model was validated by comparing the simulated data on gas concentrations with the measured data. To evaluate the influence of the pumping well on the oxidation reaction, methane emission throughout the landfill cover was simulated. Methane oxidation in the landfill cover demonstrated dynamic characteristics. The results suggest that the oxidation effect is closely related to methane emission. Sensitivity parameters were also introduced to determine the maximum oxidation rate and permeability. The critical targets of the reduction rate and reduction volume of methane were analyzed based on 20 years' worth of pumping operation data. The result further illustrates the dynamic behavior of methane oxidation, which is influenced by the degree of methanotrophic reaction and the balance between methane and air influx in the landfill cover. The results highlight the significance of the study in quantitatively assessing the capacity of landfill covers to reduce methane emissions in landfills. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 1419–1424, 2014
An Expert Solution to Assess an Industrially Situated, Computer‐Enabled Design Project
Authors: Sherrett Benjamin U. , Nefcy Erick J. , Gummer Edith S. , Koretsky Milo D.
Published: November 2013

Background

Process development is a common and critical task for industrial chemical engineers; however, it is difficult to create activities to give students such practice in their university education. Using a computer‐based simulation, we have created an authentic, industrially situated process development task that students can complete by applying their foundational knowledge and skills. We present a case study of an expert's solution to this task, which is compared with those of higher‐ and lower‐performing student teams.

Purpose

The expert study sought to characterize modeling approaches to this task and to develop a set of target competencies to evaluate evidence of student learning as a guide to assessment.

Design/Method

This comparative case study used ethnographic methodology to capture descriptions of the models and strategies that an expert and two advanced undergraduate student teams employed.

Results

We categorized the expert solution into steps of information gathering, problem formulation, and iterative modeling and experimentation. We identified fourteen expert competencies and used them to assess two sample student solutions. Each student solution contained some expert competencies; a higher number of expert competencies are evident in the student team that had been previously identified as higher performing.

Conclusions

The framework demonstrates constructive alignment of an authentic project task with evidence of student learning to evaluate the competencies students develop. This model example can be extended to other computer‐enabled learning environments and, more generally, to capstone projects and other types of open‐ended project work.
Biembedding a Steiner Triple System With a Hamilton Cycle Decomposition of a Complete Graph
Authors: McCourt Thomas A.
Published: November 2013

We construct a face two‐colourable, blue and green say, embedding of the complete graph in a nonorientable surface in which there are blue faces each of which have a hamilton cycle as their facial walk and green faces each of which have a triangle as their facial walk; equivalently a biembedding of a Steiner triple system of order n with a hamilton cycle decomposition of , for all and . Using a variant of this construction, we establish the minimum genus of nonorientable embeddings of the graph , for where and .
Double Cycloadditive Macrocyclization: An Efficient Method for Cyclophane
Authors: Zeng Y. M. , Liu F. M.
Published: November 2013

A series of macrocycles containing isoxazoline and [1,4,2]dioxazole were synthesized for the first time. The structures of the newly synthesized macrocycles were characterized and confirmed by IR,1H NMR, mass spectra, and elemental analysis. The solid‐state structure of macrocycle (6d) was further studied by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis.
One Pot Photoredox Decarboxylation Reaction of N‐Cyano(α‐bromo‐α‐phenyl)methylanilines Leading to Synthesis of Four‐Membered Cyclic Carbamates
Authors: Kaur Manpreet , Singh Baldev
Published: November 2013

A new four‐membered cyclic carbamates have been synthesized through solar irradiation of N‐cyano(α‐bromo‐α‐phenyl)methylanilines in their aqueous methanolic solution using iodide salt in basic medium. These compounds have been characterized as 3,4‐diphenyl‐1,3oxazetidin‐2‐one through their elemental analysis, IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and mass spectral studies.
Does histology predict outcome for malignant vascular tumors of the liver?
Authors: Groeschl Ryan T. , Miura John T. , Oshima Kiyoko , Gamblin T. Clark , Turaga Kiran K.
Published: November 2013

Background and Objectives

Malignant vascular tumors (MVT) of the liver are uncommon and poorly understood. We hypothesized that tumor histology is a predominant factor associated with survival in these tumors.

Methods

Patients with malignant histopathologic diagnoses of hepatic angiosarcoma (AS), hemangioendothelioma (HE) and its epithelioid variant (EHE), or hemangiopericytoma (HP) were identified using the SEER database (1973–2007). Overall survival (OS) was studied with Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results

We included 297 patients with MVT (207 AS, 28 HE, 56 EHE, 6 HP). All tumors demonstrated metastatic potential, although EHE and AS had the highest rate of regional or distant metastases (75% each). Patients with AS had the shortest median OS (1 month), however, those undergoing surgery had improved survival (6 months). Three patients with AS underwent liver transplant and lived for 11, 21, and 91 months each. Patients with EHE had the longest overall median survival of 75 months (30–183,P < 0.001). Surgical resection and transplant did not demonstrate an improvement in OS of patients with EHE in multivariable models.

Conclusions

Histology is an important factor in determining survival for patients with hepatic MVT. Patients with EHE have the longest OS, whereas patients with AS have shorter survival but may benefit from surgery.J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:483–486. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A GENERALIZED BLOCK BOOTSTRAP FOR SEASONAL TIME SERIES
Authors: Dudek Anna E. , Leśkow Jacek , Paparoditis Efstathios , Politis Dimitris N.
Published: November 2013

When time‐series data contain a periodic/seasonal component, the usual block bootstrap procedures are not directly applicable. We propose a modification of the block bootstrap – the generalized seasonal block bootstrap (GSBB) – and show its asymptotic consistency without undue restrictions on the relative size of the period and block size. Notably, it is exactly such restrictions that limit the applicability of other proposals of block bootstrap methods for time series with periodicities. The finite‐sample performance of the GSBB is also illustrated by means of a small simulation experiment.
Cost‐utility analysis of bilateral cochlear implantation in adults: A health economic assessment from the perspective of a publicly funded program
Authors: Chen Joseph M. , Amoodi Hossam , Mittmann Nicole
Published: November 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the cost‐effectiveness of bilateral cochlear implantation (CI) in deaf adults.

Study Design

Cost–utility analysis.

Methods

Ninety patients and 52 health professionals served as proxies to estimate the benefit of bilateral cochlear implantation, utilizing the Health Utility Index. Three scenarios were created to reflect 1) deafness without intervention, 2) unilateral CI, and 3) bilateral CI. Cost evaluation reflected the burden on a publicly funded healthcare system. The base case included 25 years of service provision, processor upgrades every 5 years, 50% price reduction for second side, and 15% failure rate. Discounting and sensitivity analyses were applied.

Results

Costs were $63,632 (unilateral CI), $111,764 (bilateral CI), and $48,132 (incremental cost of second CI). The health preference gained from no intervention to unilateral CI, and to bilateral CI were 0.270 and 0.305. Incremental utility gained by the second implant was 11.5% of total. The incremental cost‐utility ratio (ICUR) was $14,658/quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) for bilateral CI compared to no intervention. It was stable regardless of discounting or sensitivity analyses. ICUR was $55,020/QALY from unilateral to bilateral CI with higher uncertainties. It improved with differential discounting, further second‐side price reduction, and reduced frequency of processor upgrades. ICUR worsened with reduced length of use and higher failure rates.

Conclusions

Sequential bilateral CI was cost‐effective when compared to no intervention, although gains were made mostly by the first implant. Cost‐effectiveness compared to unilateral implantation was borderline but improved through base case variations to reflect long‐term gains or cost‐saving measures.

Level of Evidence

2C Laryngoscope, 124:1452–1458, 2014
A Neutral Supramolecular Hyperbranched Polymer Fabricated from an AB2‐Type Copillar[5]arene
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Deng Hongmei , Li Jian , Zheng Kai , Jia Xueshun , Li Chunju
Published: November 2013

A heterotritopic copillar[5]arene monomer by introducing effective neutral guest moieties (methylene chains end‐capped with cyano and triazole groups) to a pillar[5]arene macrocycle is prepared. This well‐designed AB2‐type copillar[5]arene contains strong host–guest recognition motifs that are connected with relatively flexible and long linkers, thus efficiently assembles to form supramole­cular hyperbranched polymer (SHP) in chloroform solution, which is characterized by various techniques including 1H NMR, DOSY, viscosity, DLS, and TEM. Particularly, this supramolecular polymer can be effectively depolymerized by adding a competitive butanedinitrile guest.

image
Developing the CGLS algorithm for the least squares solutions of the general coupled matrix equations
Authors: Hajarian Masoud
Published: November 2013

In the present paper, we consider the minimum norm solutions of the general least squares problem
urn:x-wiley:1704214:media:mma3017:mma3017-math-0001 By developing the conjugate gradient least square (CGLS) method, we construct an efficient iterative method to solve this problem. The constructed iterative method can compute the solution group of the problem within a finite number of iterations in the absence of roundoff errors. Also it is shown that the method is stable and robust. Finally, by some numerical experiments, we demonstrate that the iterative method is effective and efficient. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Frontal Reaction of Epoxy Oligomers in Tubular Flux Reactors
Authors: Tonoyan Anahit O. , Davtyan Sevan P. , Müller Stefan C.
Published: November 2013

A one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional model of the frontal reaction of epoxy compounds by aromatic amines in tubular flux reactors is investigated. The influence of relevant kinetic factors (velocity, activation energy, and others) on the velocity of the traveling front, the heat regimes of the reactor, and the geometric dimensions of the reactor is studied. An optimal steady‐state condition of the tubular reactor under continuous action is determined. Profiled armored carbon and glass plastics forming laboratory installation are constructed, as derived from the obtained theoretical results. It is shown that the theoretical and practical results are in satisfactory agreement. Several physico‐mechanical properties (e.g., bending strength, longitudinal modulus of elasticity), as based on the reactor wall temperature, angle of armoring, and tension are determined.
Hip strength: Ankle proprioceptive threshold ratio predicts falls and injury in diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Richardson James K. , Demott Trina , Allet Lara , Kim Hogene , Ashton‐miller James A.
Published: November 2013

Introduction: We determined lower limb neuromuscular capacities associated with falls and fall‐related injuries in older people with declining peripheral nerve function. Methods: Thirty‐two subjects (67.4 ± 13.4 years; 19 with type 2 diabetes), representing a spectrum of peripheral neurologic function, were evaluated with frontal plane proprioceptive thresholds at the ankle, frontal plane motor function at the ankle and hip, and prospective follow‐up for 1 year. Results: Falls and fall‐related injuries were reported by 20 (62.5%) and 14 (43.8%) subjects, respectively. The ratio of hip adductor rate of torque development to ankle proprioceptive threshold (HipSTR/AnkPRO) predicted falls (pseudo‐R2 = .726) and injury (pseudo‐R2 = .382). No other variable maintained significance in the presence of HipSTR/AnkPRO. Conclusions: Fall and injury risk in the population studied is related inversely to HipSTR/AnkPRO. Increasing rapidly available hip strength in patients with neuropathic ankle sensory impairment may decrease risk of falls and related injuries. Muscle Nerve 50: 437–442, 2014
Constraining light dark matter with diffuse X-ray and gamma-ray observations
Authors: Essig Rouven , Kuflik Eric , McDermott Samuel D. , Volansky Tomer , Zurek Kathryn M.
Published: November 2013

Abstract

We present constraints on decaying and annihilating dark matter (DM) in the 4 keV to 10 GeV mass range, using published results from the satellites HEAO-1, INTEGRAL, COMPTEL, EGRET, and the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope. We derive analytic expressions for the gamma-ray spectra from various DM decay modes, and find lifetime constraints in the range 1024 − 1028 sec, depending on the DM mass and decay mode. We map these constraints onto the parameter space for a variety of models, including a hidden photino that is part of a kinetically mixed hidden sector, a gravitino with R-parity violating decays, a sterile neutrino, DM with a dipole moment, and a dark pion. The indirect constraints on sterile-neutrino and hidden-photino DM are found to be more powerful than other experimental or astrophysical probes in some parts of parameter space. While our focus is on decaying DM, we also present constraints on DM annihilation to electron-positron pairs. We find that if the annihilation is p-wave suppressed, the galactic diffuse constraints are, depending on the DM mass and velocity at recombination, more powerful than the constraints from the Cosmic Microwave Background.
Abetalipoproteinemia and homozygous hypobetalipoproteinemia: a framework for diagnosis and management
Authors: Lee Jooho , Hegele Robert A.
Published: November 2013

Abetalipoproteinemia (ABL; OMIM 200100) and homozygous hypobetalipoproteinemia (HHBL; OMIM 107730) are rare diseases characterized by hypocholesterolemia and malabsorption of lipid‐soluble vitamins leading to retinal degeneration, neuropathy and coagulopathy. Hepatic steatosis is also common. The root cause of both disorders is improper packaging and secretion of apolipoprotein (apo) B‐containing lipoprotein particles due to mutations either in both alleles of the MTP (alias MTTP) gene encoding microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) or both alleles of the APOB gene itself in the case of ABL and HHBL, respectively. Clinical diagnosis is based on signs and symptoms, acanthocytosis on blood smear, and virtually absent apo B‐containing lipoproteins, including chylomicrons, very low density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein. Obligate heterozygote parents of ABL patients usually have normal lipids consistent with autosomal recessive inheritance, while heterozygous parents of HHBL patients typically have half normal levels of apo B‐containing lipoproteins consistent with autosomal co‐dominant inheritance. Definitive diagnosis involves sequencing the MTP and APOB genes, for which >30 and >60 mutations have been described for ABL and HHBL, respectively. Follow‐up includes monitoring for ophthalmologic, neurologic, hematologic, and hepatic complications, as well as compliance with treatment. Investigations include lipid profile, serum transaminases, markers for lipid‐soluble vitamins, and periodic instrumental assessment of ocular and neurological function. Mainstays of treatment include adherence to a low‐fat diet, and supplementation with essential fatty acids and high oral doses of fat soluble vitamins. Prognosis is variable, but early diagnosis and strict adherence to treatment can recover normal neurological function and halt disease progression.
Effects of fluctuating energy input on the small scales in turbulence
Authors: Chien Chen-Chi , Blum Daniel B. , Voth Greg A.
Published: November 2013

In the standard cascade picture of three-dimensional turbulent fluid flows, energy is input at a constant rate at large scales. Energy is then transferred to smaller scales by an intermittent process that has been the focus of a vast literature. However, the energy input at large scales is not constant in most real turbulent flows. We explore the signatures of these fluctuations of large-scale energy input on small-scale turbulence statistics. Measurements were made in a flow between oscillating grids, with ${R}_{\lambda } $ up to 262, in which temporal variations in the large-scale energy input can be introduced by modulating the oscillating grid frequency. We find that the Kolmogorov constant for second-order longitudinal structure functions depends on the magnitude of the fluctuations in the large-scale energy input. We can quantitatively predict the measured change with a model based on Kolmogorov’s refined similarity theory. The effects of fluctuations of the energy input can also be observed using structure functions conditioned on the instantaneous large-scale velocity. A linear parametrization using the curvature of the conditional structure functions provides a fairly good match with the measured changes in the Kolmogorov constant. Conditional structure functions are found to provide a more sensitive measure of the presence of fluctuations in the large-scale energy input than inertial range scaling coefficients.
Molecular identification of hookworms in stray and shelter dogs from Guangzhou city, China using ITS sequences
Authors: Liu Y.J. , Zheng G.C. , Zhang P. , Alsarakibi M. , Zhang X.H. , Li Y.W. , Liu T. , Ren S.N. , Chen Z.X. , Liu Y.L. , Li S.J. , Li G.Q.
Published: November 2013

Canine hookworm infections are endemic worldwide, with zoonotic transmission representing a potentially significant public health concern. This study aimed to investigate hookworm infection and identify the prevalent species from stray and shelter dogs in Guangzhou city, southern China by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences. From March 2011 to July 2012, fresh faecal samples from a total of 254 dogs were obtained from five locations, namely Conghua, Baiyun, Liwan, Haizhu and Panyu, in Guangzhou. These samples were screened for the presence of hookworm eggs using light microscopy, with an overall prevalence of 29.53% being recorded. The highest prevalence of 45.28% was found in suburban dogs from Conghua compared with lower values recorded in urban dogs in Haizhu (21.43%), Baiyun (18.97%), Panyu (18.18%) and Liwan (15%). The prevalence in stray dogs was signiﬁcantly higher than that in shelter dogs. PCR-RFLP analysis showed that 57.33% were detected as single hookworm infections withAncyclostoma caninum, and 22.67% asA. ceylanicum, while 20% were mixed infections. This suggests that high prevalences of both hookworm species in stray and shelter dogs in China pose a potential risk of transmission from pet dogs to humans.
White matter microstructural abnormalities in families multiply affected with bipolar I disorder: a diffusion tensor tractography study
Authors: Emsell L. , Chaddock C. , Forde N. , Van Hecke W. , Barker G. J. , Leemans A. , Sunaert S. , Walshe M. , Bramon E. , Cannon D. , Murray R. , McDonald C.
Published: November 2013

Background

White matter (WM) abnormalities are proposed as potential endophenotypic markers of bipolar disorder (BD). In a diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) voxel-based analysis (VBA) study of families multiply affected with BD, we previously reported that widespread abnormalities of fractional anisotropy (FA) are associated with both BD and genetic liability for illness. In the present study, we further investigated the endophenotypic potential of WM abnormalities by applying DTI tractography to specifically investigate tracts implicated in the pathophysiology of BD.

Method

Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data were acquired from 19 patients with BD type I from multiply affected families, 21 of their unaffected first-degree relatives and 18 healthy volunteers. DTI tractography was used to identify the cingulum, uncinate fasciculus (UF), arcuate portion of the superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF), corpus callosum, and the anterior limb of the internal capsule (ALIC). Regression analyses were conducted to investigate the effect of participant group and genetic liability on FA and radial diffusivity (RD) in each tract.

Results

We detected a significant effect of group on both FA and RD in the cingulum, SLF, callosal splenium and ILF driven by reduced FA and increased RD in patients compared to controls and relatives. Increasing genetic liability was associated with decreased FA and increased RD in the UF, and decreased FA in the SLF, among patients.

Conclusions

WM microstructural abnormalities in limbic, temporal and callosal pathways represent microstructural abnormalities associated with BD whereas alterations in the SLF and UF may represent potential markers of endophenotypic risk.
‘In Glasgow but not quite of it’? Eastern European Jewish immigrants in a provincial Jewish community from c.1890 to c.1945
Authors: TAYLOR AVRAM
Published: November 2013

This article makes use of autobiographies and oral interviews in order to explore the lifestyles of the first generation of immigrants within one particular provincial Jewish community – the Gorbals in Glasgow – between 1890 and 1945. The experience of this generation of immigrants was characterised by diversity to an extent that was not true of the second generation. Thus, the community cannot be described in terms of either ‘assimilation’ or ‘separation’. Instead, an alternative description has been coined: ‘variegated acculturation’ in order to encompass the complexity of the lives of the immigrants.
Questioning the Vulnerability Zeitgeist: Care and Control Practices with ‘Vulnerable’ Young People
Authors: Brown Kate
Published: November 2013

This article provides insights into how the concept of vulnerability operates in welfare and disciplinary processes for young people who are considered ‘vulnerable’. It reports from empirical qualitative research conducted in a large city in England which included interviews with vulnerable young people and with professionals working with this group. Findings highlight that despite differences of opinion about what constitutes ‘vulnerability’, it is a popular and powerful conceptual mechanism which underpins the delivery of service interventions for certain young people. A relationship between vulnerability and ‘transgression’ is revealed, calling into question dichotomous representations of young people as either ‘vulnerable victims’ or ‘dangerous wrong-doers’. It is argued that whilst it can be utilised in the pursuit of more ‘caring’ interventions with those who are seen to be ‘in need’, vulnerability is also a concept relevant to debates concerning selective welfare systems and behavioural regulation.
Hemorrhagic Transformation after Ischemic Stroke in Animals and Humans
Authors: Jickling Glen C , Liu DaZhi , Stamova Boryana , Ander Bradley P , Zhan Xinhua , Lu Aigang , Sharp Frank R
Published: November 2013

Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is a common complication of ischemic stroke that is exacerbated by thrombolytic therapy. Methods to better prevent, predict, and treat HT are needed. In this review, we summarize studies of HT in both animals and humans. We propose that early HT (<18 to 24 hours after stroke onset) relates to leukocyte-derived matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and brain-derived MMP-2 that damage the neurovascular unit and promote blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption. This contrasts to delayed HT (>18 to 24 hours after stroke) that relates to ischemia activation of brain proteases (MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, and endogenous tissue plasminogen activator), neuroinflammation, and factors that promote vascular remodeling (vascular endothelial growth factor and high-moblity-group-box-1). Processes that mediate BBB repair and reduce HT risk are discussed, including transforming growth factor beta signaling in monocytes, Src kinase signaling, MMP inhibitors, and inhibitors of reactive oxygen species. Finally, clinical features associated with HT in patients with stroke are reviewed, including approaches to predict HT by clinical factors, brain imaging, and blood biomarkers. Though remarkable advances in our understanding of HT have been made, additional efforts are needed to translate these discoveries to the clinic and reduce the impact of HT on patients with ischemic stroke.
Teacher Knowledge and Perceptions of Stuttering and Bullying in School‐Age Children.
Authors: Plexico Laura W. , Plumb Allison M. , Beacham Jillian
Published: November 2013

Purpose: To evaluate teacher knowledge and perceptions of the development and management of stuttering, as well as bullying.

Method: A 32‐item web‐based survey was created to address the purposes of this investigation. Participants were recruited in 5 states representing diverse geographic regions by sending an e‐mail with an attached information letter and an embedded e‐mail link. A total of 84 teachers completed the survey.

Results: Teachers demonstrated a general understanding of the cause and characteristics associated with stuttering; however, teachers indicated some feelings of discomfort surrounding stuttering and there were some indications that they are not clear on the best ways to manage it, nor do they have access to materials. The majority identified bullying as a problem at their schools and encountered bullying of children who stutter.

Conclusions: The results from this investigation were mixed in that teachers demonstrated insight into some areas of stuttering and bullying, but decreased awareness or misperceptions in others. The findings highlight the critical role of the speech‐language pathologist in the continued need for in‐services and information provision on the nature and management of childhood stuttering as well as bullying.
Correlation Between Frequency and Perceptual Severity of Stuttering in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Irani Farzan , Megan Edge
Published: November 2013

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to further explore the relationship between the frequency of stuttering measured in percentage of syllables stuttered (%SS) and perceptual ratings of stuttering severity by the clinician and the client in a clinical setting.

Method: Eight adolescent and adult participants attending a stuttering therapy program and their graduate student clinicians perceptually rated stuttering severity using a 9‐point scale. Speech samples were gathered during each therapy session for a total of 167 speech samples. Further, each sample was analyzed for %SS. A Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to determine the strength and direction of correlations between %SS and perceptual ratings by the clinician and client.

Results: The correlational analysis indicates significant positive correlations between perceptual severity ratings by the clinician and client as well as %SS. Correlation between perceptual ratings was stronger than the correlation between perceptual ratings and %SS.

Conclusion: The strong, positive correlation between the client's self‐measurement and the clinician's perceptual measurement indicates similarities in global severity of stuttering perception. Weaker correlation between %SS and perceptual ratings indicates the need to incorporate a more holistic measure of stuttering severity. Implication and directions for future research are discussed.
Exploring the Frustration of Situational Variability Using Visual Methodology With an Adult Who Stammers
Authors: Bull Claire , Stewart Trudy , Kitchen Joanna
Published: November 2013

Purpose: Adults who stammer frequently report frustration linked to the variability of stammering (stuttering) across speaking situations, be that in relation to the variability of speech fluency or the underlying emotional response.

The paper will present the case of Tom and the collaborative development of a visual methodology which arose in response to clinical need. Tom is an adult who stammers who experienced high levels of frustration associated with the variability of his speech fluency and speech-associated anxiety (SAA). Exploring this variability was of central importance to the identification stage of therapy.

Method: In the absence of an existing support mechanism for this process, a tool called the Situation Radar was developed. The Situation Radar (SR) provides a unique, visual representation of a client’s individual pattern of situational variability across different speaking situations.

Results: Clinical application of the SR and its associated processes revealed a number of uses within the therapy context, relating to the identification process and throughout therapy.

The client reported that using the SR to explore situational variability supported an increased awareness of his SAA, which in turn guided target setting and led to an expanded comfort zone.

Conclusion: Further study into the use of the SR is indicated.
Neurologic Substrates of Motor Speech Disorders
Authors: Strand Edythe A.
Published: November 2013

A good clinical understanding of the neurologic substrates of neurologic communicative disorders is important both to diagnosis and treatment. This article briefly reviews neurologic substrates for motor speech disorders (MSD) and how clinicians may identify neurologic signs and symptoms to facilitate differential diagnosis of apraxia of speech (AOS) and the various types of dysarthria.

Students and clinicians have numerous resources regarding general neuroanatomy and neurophysiology (e.g. Benarroch, 2006; Kandel, Schwartz, and Jessel, 1991; Nolte, 2002; Snell, 1997) as well as neuroanatomic correlates of speech-language behavior and disorders (Bhatnagar, 2012; Duffy, 2013). Articles on aspects of neuroimaging (Brown, Petersen and Schlaggar, 2003; Shuster, 2003) and neurologic substrates for MSDs (Farinella-Bocian, Strand, and Benarroch, 2007) are also available in previous editions of Perspectives.

This article begins with an overview of the differing MSDs. A brief overview of neurologic systems is provided, followed by a more detailed description of the neurologic substrates for MSDs. Examples of clinical observations of speech and non-speech characteristics that can aid the clinician in understanding the underlying neural deficit are provided.
Instrumental Assessment in Cleft Palate Care
Authors: Perry Jamie , Schenck Graham
Published: November 2013

Despite advances in surgical management, it is estimated that 20–30% of children with repaired cleft palate will continue to have hypernasal speech and require a second surgery to create normal velopharyngeal function (Bricknell, McFadden, & Curran, 2002; Härtel, Karsten, & Gundlach, 1994; McWilliams, 1990). A qualitative perceptual assessment by a speech-language pathologist is considered the most important step of the evaluation for children with resonance disorders (Peterson-Falzone, Hardin-Jones, & Karnell, 2010). Direct and indirect instrumental analyses should be used to confirm or validate the perceptual evaluation of an experienced speech-language pathologist (Paal, Reulbach, Strobel-Schwarthoff, Nkenke, & Schuster, 2005).

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of current instrumental assessment methods used in cleft palate care. Both direct and indirect instrumental procedures will be reviewed with descriptions of the advantages and disadvantages of each. Lastly, new developments for evaluating velopharyngeal structures and function will be provided.
Differential‐fed ultra‐wideband slot‐loaded patch antenna with dual orthogonal polarisation
Authors: Zhang Kai , Zhu Fuguo , Gao Steven
Published: November 2013

A novel dual‐polarised ultra‐wideband patch antenna is proposed. This antenna consists of a square ring patch and four inclined triangular‐shaped patches. The vertices of the triangular patches are connected to the microstrip lines which are printed on the bottom layer of the grounded FR4 substrate. To realise the differential feed mechanism for reducing the coupling between the two polarisation ports and the cross‐polarisation level, two identical tapered baluns are used to excite the antenna. The antenna prototype can provide two orthogonal polarisations with an impedance bandwidth (|S11| ≤ −10 dB) of 113.2% and isolation of over 28 dB across the whole operating frequency band. The measured antenna gain varies from 2.09 to 7.66 dBi for port 1 and from 0.02 to 6.77 dBi for port 2 with a 3 dB gain bandwidth of 96.3%.
On emotional aspects in Mission‐Oriented Opportunistic Networks
Authors: Misra Sudip , Saha Barun Kumar
Published: November 2013

In Mission‐Oriented Opportunistic Networks (MOONs), the human users, who possess the mobile devices, also participate as part of the network. In this study, the authors study an aspect of human–network interplay in MOONs, by considering the effects of human emotions on the network operations. This study differs from the related existing works, which focus on detecting emotions of the users based on their activities, for example, their smart phone usage patterns. The study uses Meftah's computational model of the emotions, which itself is based on Plutchik's model. The authors model the current emotion of any user as a function of the individual's previous state of emotion and the content of the messages received by them. Specifically, the authors consider how the variation in individual emotions affect the traffic generation rate in the network. Further, they model the scenarios in which the users switch off their devices’ radios, and their effects on the message delivery ratio. The results of performance evaluation show that the delivery ratio of the messages tends to zero because of increased traffic load and inactivity of the devices’ radios, which, in turn, calls for efficient traffic management and forwarding schemes.
Circadian oscillation and development-dependent expression of glycine-rich RNA binding proteins in tomato fruits
Authors: Müller Gabriela L. , Triassi Agustina , Alvarez Clarisa E. , Falcone Ferreyra María L. , Andreo Carlos S. , Lara María V. , Drincovich María F.
Published: November 2013

Glycine-rich RNA-binding proteins (GRPs) are involved in the modulation of the post-transcriptional processing of transcripts and participate as an output signal of the circadian clock. However, neither GRPs nor the circadian rhythmic have been studied in detail in fleshy fruits as yet. In the present work, the GRP1 gene family was analysed in Micro-Tom tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruit. Three highly homologous LeGRP1 genes (LeGRP1a–c) were identified. For each gene, three products were found, corresponding to the unspliced precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA), the mature mRNA and the alternatively spliced mRNA (preLeGRP1a–c, mLeGRP1a–c and asLeGRP1a–c, respectively). Tomato GRPs (LeGRPs) show the classic RNA recognition motif and glycine-rich region, and were found in the nucleus and in the cytosol of tomato fruit. By using different Escherichia coli mutants, it was found that LeGRP1s contained in vivo RNA-melting abilities and were able to complement the cold-sensitive phenotype of BX04 cells. Particular circadian profiles of expression, dependent on the fruits’ developmental stage, were found for each LeGRP1 form. During ripening off the vine of fruits harvested at the mature green stage, the levels of all LeGRP1a–c forms drastically increased; however, incubation at 4°C prevented such increases. Analysis of the expression of all LeGRP1a–c forms suggests a positive regulation of expression in tomato fruit. Overall, the results obtained in this work reveal a complex pattern of expression of GRPs in tomato fruit, suggesting they might be involved in post-transcriptional modulation of circadian processes of this fleshy fruit.
Human autoimmunity after lymphocyte depletion is caused by homeostatic T-cell proliferation
Authors: Jones Joanne L. , Thompson Sara A. J. , Loh Priscilla , Davies Jessica L. , Tuohy Orla C. , Curry Allison J. , Azzopardi Laura , Hill-Cawthorne Grant , Fahey Michael T. , Compston Alastair , Coles Alasdair J.
Published: November 2013

Significance

This paper identifies the mechanism by which patients with multiple sclerosis develop secondary autoimmunity after treatment with the lymphocyte-depleting humanized monoclonal antibody alemtuzumab (Campath-1H). In identifying this mechanism, it shows that T-cell homeostatic proliferation can lead to autoimmunity in humans. Alemtuzumab is one of the most effective treatments of multiple sclerosis tested to date; it is currently licensed in the European Union and under consideration by the Food and Drug Administration. Understanding what drives its most significant side effect is of clear clinical importance.
Rubella virus capsid protein structure and its role in virus assembly and infection
Authors: Mangala Prasad Vidya , Willows Steven D. , Fokine Andrei , Battisti Anthony J. , Sun Siyang , Plevka Pavel , Hobman Tom C. , Rossmann Michael G.
Published: November 2013

Significance

Rubella virus (RV) is a human pathogen that causes serious birth defects when contracted during pregnancy. However, due to its variable shape and size, little is known about the RV structure. The RV capsid protein is an essential component of the virus and a key factor for successful replication of the virus in host cells. Here we describe the atomic structure of the RV capsid protein. This structure, along with electron microscopic data on the virus, has provided a three-dimensional picture of the virion. The capsid protein structure has also helped to identify amino acid residues that are required for virus assembly. This information can be used for the development of antiviral therapies that target the viral capsid protein.
Immunoglobulin knockout chickens via efficient homologous recombination in primordial germ cells
Authors: Schusser Benjamin , Collarini Ellen J. , Yi Henry , Izquierdo Shelley Mettler , Fesler Jeffrey , Pedersen Darlene , Klasing Kirk C. , Kaspers Bernd , Harriman William D. , van de Lavoir Marie-Cecile , Etches Robert J. , Leighton Philip A.
Published: November 2013

Significance

Chickens have been an important animal model in the fields of developmental biology and immunology over the last century and have contributed a number of basic findings in these areas. However, their use has been limited more recently because there has been no way to genetically engineer specific mutations in the chicken. In addition to basic research applications, genetic modification in birds could also be used to mitigate the threat of avian influenza by production of flu-resistant bird stocks in agriculture. Here we describe an efficient way to target genes of interest in the chicken genome and create knockout chickens. We targeted the immunoglobulin heavy chain gene, leading to loss of antibody production and a block in B-cell development.
Book Review: The Handbook on Questioning Children: A Linguistic Perspective by Anne Graffam Walker
Authors: Hamilton Andi
Published: November 2013

After 14 years, the seminal book on questioning children by Anne Graffam Walker has been modernized with co-author Julie Kenniston. Although much of the original information remains the same, this edition contains current research citations, additional topics, and beautiful graphics, all of which enhance the reader’s experience.
Active Surveillance for Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Using Stool Specimens Submitted for Testing for Clostridium difficile
Authors: Banach David B. , Francois Jeannette , Blash Stephanie , Patel Gopi , Jenkins Stephen G. , LaBombardi Vincent , Kreiswirth Barry N. , Srinivasan Arjun , Calfee David P.
Published: November 2013

Active surveillance to identify asymptomatic carriers of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a recommended strategy for CRE control in healthcare facilities. Active surveillance using stool specimens tested for Clostridium difficile is a relatively low-cost strategy to detect CRE carriers. Further evaluation of this and other risk factor-based active surveillance strategies is warranted.