bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacological Inhibition of DGAT1 Induces Sebaceous Gland Atrophy in Mouse and Dog Skin While Overt Alopecia Is Restricted to the Mouse
Authors: Floettmann Eike , Lees David , Seeliger Frank , Jones Huw Bowen
Published: August 2014

Diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) plays an important role in synthesizing lipids, and inhibitors of DGAT1 have been investigated as potential treatments for diabetes and metabolic diseases. DGAT1 knockout (−/−) mice are resistant to obesity, have increased sensitivity to insulin, and exhibit sebaceous gland atrophy and alopecia. Prolonged pharmacological inhibition of DGAT1 with AZD7687 in mice results in the same skin phenotype, including sebaceous gland atrophy and alopecia, as seen in the skin of DGAT1 (−/−) mice. AZD7687-mediated effects on the skin were dose- and time-dependent and reversible. They occurred only at substantial levels of continuous DGAT1 inhibition. Prolonged treatment of dogs with AZD7687 also resulted in sebaceous gland atrophy but did not result in the more adverse skin changes of hair loss and skin lesions. Our findings highlight a significant risk of generating the same lesions that were seen in mouse skin during clinical development of DGAT1 inhibitors in humans and also reveal a species difference in the effects on the skin, indicating that the mouse may be an especially sensitive species. Therefore, although human therapeutic doses may not have the same influence on skin morphology as seen in mice, monitoring of skin changes will be essential in clinical trials with DGAT1 inhibitors.
Posterior leaflet segment 2 plication in ischemic mitral regurgitation repair
Authors: Ay Yasin , Erkin Alper , Kara Ibrahim , Aydin Cemalettin , Ay Nuray Kahraman , Zeybek Rahmi
Published: August 2014

Aim

To evaluate the medium-term results of plication of posterior leaflet segment 2 in addition to ring annuloplasty in patients with functional ischemic mitral regurgitation.

Methods

The study included 136 patients who underwent mitral valve repair with plication of posterior leaflet segment 2 for ischemic mitral regurgitation between 2004 and 2012. The direction and correlation of left ventricle sphericity and tethering area were established by Pearson correlation analysis in patients with or without recurrent mitral regurgitation in the medium term.

Results

Medium-term survival was 91.9% and freedom from moderate or severe mitral regurgitation was 89.6%. In medium-term follow-up, transthoracic echocardiography found a significant decrease in tethering area, coaptation height, and distance between the commissures compared to the pre-surgery values ( p = 0.0001 in all). The distance between the papillary muscles was reduced compared to the pre-surgery period but it was not significant ( p = 0.204). Pearson correlation analysis found no significant correlation between the tethering area and left ventricle sphericity in patients without recurrent mitral regurgitation ( r = 0.15, p = 0.36), a highly positive correlation ( r = 0.44, p < 0.001) in patients with mild recurrent mitral regurgitation, and a moderately positive correlation ( r = 0.71, p < 0.01) in patients with moderate or severe recurrent mitral regurgitation.

Conclusions

The tethering area, coaptation height, and distance between the commissures decreased significantly, thus posterior leaflet segment 2 plication in addition to ring annuloplasty may be the optional procedure to ensure freedom from moderate or severe mitral regurgitation.
Effects of coronary artery bypass grafting surgery on retinal vascular caliber, ocular pulse amplitude and retinal thickness measurements
Authors: Pekel G , Kılıç ID , Alihanoğlu Yİ , Acer S , Yağcı R , Kaya H , Alur İ
Published: August 2014

Aim:

The retina and ocular vasculature are vulnerable to alterations in systemic hemodynamics, such as in open heart surgeries. Our aim was to investigate retinal vascular caliber (RVC), ocular pulse amplitude (OPA), peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and macular thickness in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery patients.

Methods:

Twenty-six patients who had a history of CABG surgery and 26 age-sex-matched healthy participants were recruited for this prospective, cross-sectional and comparative study. The RVC, peripapillary RNFL and macular thickness measurements were taken with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. The OPA, a surrogate of pulsatile ocular blood flow, was measured with the Pascal dynamic contour tonometer.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences between the CABG surgery patients and the controls with regard to RVC, OPA, peripapillary RNFL thickness and macular thickness measurements (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

CABG surgery does not affect retinal structures and pulsatile ocular blood flow in the long-term follow-up.
Generation and Management of Electronic Waste in the City of Pune, India
Authors: Borthakur Anwesha
Published: August 2014

Electronic waste (E-waste) illustrates discarded appliances that utilize electricity for their functioning. It is one of the fastest growing waste streams across the globe. A study on the generation and management of E-waste was conducted in the city of Pune, India, involving four different stakeholders, namely, the information technology (IT) sector, banking sector, educational institutes, and households. All these stakeholders are listed by the Indian Ministry of Environment and Forest as major contributors to the problem of E-waste in the country. Semistructured interviews were carried out at 4 IT companies, 10 banks, 16 educational institutes, and 50 households. Results show that the generation of E-waste with respect to computer waste is highest at the IT sector, followed by the banking sector. Apart from a few exceptions, rudimentary management practices were prevalent among the stakeholders. There is a lack of awareness on concerns related to E-waste. Establishing sustainable E-waste management practices, formulation and implementation of appropriate policy initiatives, transparency in the system, and educating people on their responsibility toward global E-waste problem are essential in order to address the emerging concern of E-waste in India.
Solidarity and Human Insecurity: Rethinking Solidarity from the Point of View of Africa
Authors: Boni Tanella
Published: August 2014

The practice of family solidarity is a fact in African societies even if the people are facing all kinds of risks from an early age, before they exert their activity to take charge. There is lack of civil protections as “social security” which covers individuals from illness and other risks thus transforming African societies into scenes where violence and social insecurity reigns. Under these conditions, the freedom of the individual is in question as well as the protection of citizens, taking into account the risks to life, work, education, health, other environment. The social role to be played by the rule of law is also in question. But the bond of solidarity is primarily ethical. It binds one human to another, beyond the laws and social institutions.
Foulkes and Intersubjectivity: A Pioneer in Uncharted Territories
Authors: Potthoff Peter
Published: August 2014

Since the 1940s Foulkes developed his theory of group analysis. Originating from Freudian psychoanalysis, Foulkes—through his experiences with groups—developed new concepts about human motivation, pathogenesis of mental illness and therapeutic options. In contrast to drive theory, he postulated relationality, search for contact and exchange, and belongingness as central motivations. In a sometimes surprising congruence with Foulkes’ ideas, the intersubjective-relational paradigm came into being during the 1980s and has since, as ‘intersubjective turn’, substantially influenced contemporary psychoanalytic theorizing. It could serve as a bridge between different psychoanalytic schools as well as between contemporary psychoanalysis and group analysis.

Basic tenets of group analysis and relational psychoanalysis are demonstrated, differences and similarities pointed out.
Group Analysis Today—Developments in Intersubjectivity
Authors: Friedman Robi
Published: August 2014

S.H. Foulkes may be considered a pioneer of intersubjective thinking by developing concepts like ‘transpersonal’ and ‘location’. Group analysis has thus always been connected to the main understandings of the modern relational approach. Reciprocity, mutuality, the collective mind, dreamtelling, self-disclosure and other concepts will be discussed as ingredients of the group analytic practice.
Symptomatic Overlap and Therapeutic Opportunities in Primary Headache
Authors: Cady Roger , Garas Sandy Yacoub , Patel Ketu , Peterson Andrew , Wenzel Richard
Published: August 2014

Headache, a nearly universal experience, remains costly, disabling, and often suboptimally managed. The most common presentations in the United States are migraine, tension-type headache (TTH) and “sinus” headache, but their extensive symptomatic overlap suggests that these conditions can be approached as variations in the same underlying pathology and managed accordingly. We use case studies of patients with varying prior diagnoses (none, migraine, TTH, and sinus headache), as well as a 4-question diagnostic screening tool, to illustrate how pharmacists can use this conceptual framework to simplify identification, management, and referral of patients with primary headache conditions of uncertain etiology.
Triphenylbenzene core based dendritic benzoxazines and their heat-resistant and photoluminescent polymers
Authors: Zhu Chunli , Xu Hongli , Geng Pengfei , Lu Zaijun
Published: August 2014

A facile and efficient synthetic route to connect 1,3,5-tri( p-hydroxyl-phenyl)benzene (TP) molecules into polymers was introduced. Specifically, a series of triphenylbenzene core based dendritic benzoxazines were synthesized via Mannich reaction using TP, paraformaldehyde, and amine derivatives including n-propylamine, cyclohexylamine, and aniline. The chemical structure of benzoxazines was characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Thermally ring-opening polymerization of the dendritic benzoxazines yielded the cross-linked polymers. We found that N-substituents had the significant influence on polymerization temperature, glass transition temperature ( Tg), thermal stability, and char yield. Polybenzoxazine with the N-phenyl group exhibited the highest Tg of 276°C, char yield of 70%, and excellent thermal stability (5 and 10% weight loss temperatures at 356 and 411°C, respectively). Photoluminescent analysis indicated that the cross-linked structure did not quench the triphenylbenzene’s photoluminescence, while only the relative photoluminescent intensity of polybenzoxazines reduced compared with TP.
Influence of organic-modified iron–montmorillonite on smoke-suppression properties and combustion behavior of intumescent flame-retardant epoxy composites
Authors: Chen Xilei , Liu Lei , Zhuo Jinlong , Jiao Chuanmei , Qian Yi
Published: August 2014

In this article, the influence of organic-modified montmorillonite (Fe-OMT) on smoke-suppression properties and combustion behavior of flame-retardant epoxy (FREP) was investigated intensively. A series of intumescent FREPs (IFREPs) with different content of Fe-OMT were prepared based on EP resin as matrix resin, ammonium polyphosphate and pentaerythrite as intumescent flame retardants, and Fe-OMT as smoke suppressant and flame-retardant synergism. Then, the smoke-suppression properties of Fe-OMT on IFREP composites were evaluated using cone calorimeter test, smoke density test, and scanning electron microscopy analysis. The influence of Fe-OMT on thermal degradation of IFREP composites were studied by thermogravimetric analysis–infrared spectrometry in a flowing nitrogen atmosphere. The pyrolysis kinetics of the composites was investigated using Kissinger and Flynn–Wall–Ozawa methods. The results showed that the heat release rate and smoke production rate of flame-retardant samples decrease greatly with the increasing Fe-OMT content. Fe-OMT can enhance char residues of flame-retardant samples and decrease the smoke production rate.
Low-melt-viscosity polyether sulfone/polyetherethersulfone copolymers
Authors: Yue Xigui , Jiang Zhenhua
Published: August 2014

The rheological, mechanical, and thermal properties of random, alternating, and three block of polyether sulfone/polyetherethersulfone copolymers are compared. These copolymers have similar molecular weights and chemical composition (phenyl:ether:sulfone = 7:4:3). Differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis results indicate that all copolymers possess extremely close glass transition temperature. On this basis, it is interesting to find that the alternating copolymer exhibits the melt viscosity of 281 Pa·s, which is much lower than those of random copolymer (1641 Pa·s). For block copolymers, the gradual increase with the preceding length increases in melt viscosity. In addition, the stress–strain test curves of copolymers were investigated, which revealed that sequence distribution has important influence on the tensile strengths and elongations at break. All these can be highly related to their different sequence distribution. These results obtained were discussed and interpreted.
Nonlinear relative dynamics of Lorentz spacecraft about J2-perturbed orbit
Authors: Huang Xu , Yan Ye , Zhou Yang , Zhang Hua
Published: August 2014

The Lorentz force acted on a charged spacecraft via interaction with planetary magnetic field provides new means of propellantless electromagnetic propulsion. Active modulation of the surface charge allows the spacecraft to perform orbital maneuvers. By assuming the Earth’s magnetic field could be modeled as a tilted dipole that co-rotates with Earth, a nonlinear dynamical model describing the orbital motion of Lorentz spacecraft with respect to J2-perturbed orbit is developed using Lagrangian mechanics. Two potential applications of the proposed model, J2-perturbed Lorentz-augmented spacecraft hovering and Lorentz-propelled rendezvous, are considered in this paper. Fuel-optimal control strategies are designed for hovering, and optimal trajectory of the specific charge of Lorentz spacecraft for propellantless rendezvous that minimizes the consumption of control energy is also derived via Gauss pseudospectral method. To capture the interactive effect of J2 perturbations and Lorentz force on relative motion, comparisons are made between results derived from J2-perturbed model and unperturbed model for both applications. Numerical simulations prove the validity of the proposed relative dynamical model and the applicability of Lorentz force in J2-perturbed spacecraft hovering and rendezvous. Comparisons show that J2 perturbation should be considered when long-term hovering is necessary or more precise rendezvous trajectory is required, especially for low Earth orbit where J2 perturbation is one of the most dominant perturbative forces.
Optimal online trajectory generation for a flying robot for terrain following purposes using neural network
Authors: Kosari Amirreza , Maghsoudi Hossein , Lavaei Abolfazl , Ahmadi Rohollah
Published: August 2014

This paper is concerned with the problem of the two-dimensional optimal online trajectory generation for a flying robot for terrain following/terrain avoidance purposes using neural network. To this end, the terrain is modeled as a terrain following constraint. In the next step, the inverse dynamics method is utilized for offline trajectory generation. Since the main objective of this research is online trajectory generation, the neural network method is employed for this purpose. To train the neural network, various approaches such as steepest descent, conjugate gradient, resilient back propagation, and Levenberg–Marquardt are explored in detail, and finally, the Levenberg–Marquardt method is selected on account of some merits. The efficacy of the neural network method is demonstrated by extensive simulations, and in particular, it is verified that this method is able to produce a solution satisfying all hard constraints of the underlying problem.
Macro and micro legitimation in discourse on Iran’s nuclear programme: The case of Iranian national newspaper Kayhan
Authors: KhosraviNik Majid
Published: August 2014

The present article attempts to throw light on the nature and quality of discursive strategies used in Iranian discourse on the nuclear programme as represented in an influential Iranian daily, Kayhan (کیهان). Working within the general guidelines of critical discourse analysis, the general orientation of the article is towards explicating how the newspaper texts may come to be perceived within an Iranian socio-political context. The article is part of a larger research project which has looked at the discourses of Iran’s nuclear programme as represented in different British and Iranian newspapers, and the ways they may devise micro-linguistic and macro-argumentative strategies to construct and de/legitimise the positions of Self and Other. The focus of this article is on findings on the broad argumentative aspects of one of the influential Iranian dailies which functions as a flagship of what can arguably be called the overarching conservative rhetoric of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Broad discursive approaches of the newspaper are distinguished in terms of a global, overarching, political macro-legitimatory approach versus a local, restricted micro-legitimatory approach towards identities of Self and Other and the nature of the political conflict over Iran’s nuclear programme.
Vegetation dynamics in relation to late Holocene climate variability and disturbance, Outaouais, Québec, Canada
Authors: Lafontaine-Boyer Karelle , Gajewski Konrad
Published: August 2014

A pollen diagram from Lac Brulé in southwestern Québec (45°43′09″N, 75°26′32″W, 270 m) provides a late Holocene history of the vegetation. The presence of varved sediments permitted the development of a high-resolution (10-year), cross-dated chronology with an estimated error of approximately 1%. During the last 1400 years, the forests were dominated by Tsuga, Fagus, Betula, Acer and Pinus. A peak in microcharcoal and evidence of post-fire succession suggest that the changes in the pollen assemblages around ad 1375 were a consequence of a fire in the region. There was a decrease in pollen influx of several deciduous taxa and Tsuga between ad 1600 and 1700, suggesting a rapid climate change that was significant enough to have affected pollen production of these taxa. This change, associated with the beginning of the ‘Little Ice Age’ in the region, affected the forest composition for the subsequent centuries. A detailed comparison of this pollen record with that from a nearby pollen diagram also prepared at high-temporal resolution shows the ability of pollen records to record short-period climate variations and disturbances.
Prevalence, Correlates, and Comorbidities of DSM-IV Psychiatric Disorders in Children in Seoul, Korea
Authors: Park Subin , Kim Bung-Nyun , Cho Soo-Churl , Kim Jae-Won , Shin Min-Sup , Yoo Hee-Jeong
Published: August 2014

The present study reports past-year prevalence of and comorbidities associated with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition ( DSM-IV) disorders in 1645 children aged 6 to 12 years in Seoul, Korea. The diagnosis was based on the parental version of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children (DISC-IV). Our participants completed the Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI). The estimated prevalence of any full-syndrome and subthreshold DSM-IV disorders were 16.2% and 28.1%, respectively. The most prevalent disorders were specific phobia (9.6%), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; 5.9%), and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD; 4.9%). The estimated prevalence of depressive disorder was 0.1% according to the DISC-IV and1.9% according to the CDI. ADHD, ODD, and anxiety disorders were highly comorbid. Our study highlights the importance of obtaining children’s self-report data in addition to the parents’ interview, particularly for depression, and the importance of early detection of subthreshold conditions and considering comorbid diagnoses.
The Impact of the Environment on Health in Mongolia
Authors: Jadambaa Amarzaya , Spickett Jeffery , Badrakh Burmaajav , Norman Rosana E.
Published: August 2014

Mongolia has significant exposure to environmental risk factors because of poor environmental management and behaviors, and children are increasingly vulnerable to these threats. This study aimed to assess levels of exposure and summarize the evidence for associations between exposures to environmental risk factors and adverse health outcomes in Mongolia, with a particular focus on children. A systematic review was conducted using the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Global Health Library, CINAHL, CABI, Scopus, and mongolmed.mn electronic databases up to April 2014 . A total of 59 studies meeting the predetermined criteria were included. Results indicate that the Mongolian population has significant exposure to outdoor and indoor air pollution, metals, environmental tobacco smoke, and other chemical toxins, and these risk factors have been linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases among adults and respiratory diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders among children. Well-designed epidemiological investigations in vulnerable populations especially in pregnant women and children are recommended.
Gender Diversity in the Corporate Boardroom
Authors: Sonnabend Stephanie
Published: August 2014

Do CEOs really want to work with a diverse board of directors or do they prefer the status quo? In order for women to have a voice in the boardroom, men and women must do more to advocate for change, and it must become a corporate imperative, that is visible and measured.
Nonlinear vibrational behavior of multi-body dynamical systems with bi-directional piecewise linear spring constraints
Authors: Ma Ya Li , Yu Shu Dong , Wang De Lun
Published: August 2014

The nonlinear vibrational behavior of multi-body dynamical systems with piecewise linear spring characteristics under harmonic excitations is investigated in this paper using the Bozzak-Newmark-LCP numerical scheme. Each body is subjected to bi-directional piecewise linear spring constraints, which are activated when the initial gaps between the body and the secondary springs are consumed. The system equations of motion are discretized in the time domain using the Bozzak relaxation scheme. At each time step, a set of governing equations in terms of displacements are obtained using the Newmark integration scheme. Two auxiliary displacement vectors, complementary to the contact force vectors, are introduced to detect the engagement of gap activated springs with a resolution of the time step size. With the aid of a simple transformation, the nonlinear vibration problem of a multiple degrees-of-freedom (d.f.) piecewise-linear dynamical system is reduced to a mathematical programming problem for which an accurate and efficient solution satisfying the piecewise linear constraints everywhere can be obtained. The numerical scheme used in this paper was first validated for a single d.f. system with two-sided gap-activated springs under base excitation using the results available in the literature. Numerical results are obtained and presented for the dynamical behavior of a two-body oscillator with two primary springs and four gap-activated secondary springs under harmonic excitations over a wide range of values of system and excitation parameters.
Nonlinear dynamic analysis and modeling of fractional permanent magnet synchronous motors
Authors: Zhu Jianwei , Chen Diyi , Zhao Hua , Ma Ruifang
Published: August 2014

This paper is a step forward to generalize the fundamentals of the relationship between fractional-order system modeling and integer order system modeling. First, we establish a fractional-order mathematical modeling of permanent magnet synchronous motor from the view of engineering applications. Obviously, the effect of fractional order is the key factor for extra freedom, more flexibility and novelty. As a pioneering work, we analyze the effect of fractional order on the bifurcation point, and give its basic law, which is a fundamental work to optimize the use of the previous integer-order research results, and a bridge between fractional-order system and integer order system. Furthermore, we discuss the beginning point and ending point of chaos and the size of the attractors with varying fractional-order, respectively. In addition, nonlinear dynamics analyses of the presented fractional order system are also given. Finally, numerical simulations are given which match the analytical discussion.
Continuum modeling and simulation of multiphase diffusion through a porous solid
Authors: Zhao Qiangsheng , Papadopoulos Panayiotis
Published: August 2014

A theory is proposed for the continuum modeling of liquid and gas diffusion through a deformable porous solid. The solid and the voids are locally homogenized to yield a macroscopic solid phase. Liquid saturation of the voids and gas pressure are included as state variables to model diffusion. A model based on the proposed theory is implemented numerically using the finite element method, and tested with three simulations on sand and Nafion.
Signaling networks in MS: A systems-based approach to developing new pharmacological therapies
Authors: Kotelnikova Ekaterina , Bernardo-Faura Marti , Silberberg Gilad , Kiani Narsis A , Messinis Dimitris , Melas Ioannis N , Artigas Laura , Schwartz Elena , Mazo Ilya , Masso Mar , Alexopoulos Leonidas G , Mas Jose Manuel , Olsson Tomas , Tegner Jesper , Martin Roland , Zamora Albert , Paul Friedemann , Saez-Rodriguez Julio , Villoslada Pablo
Published: August 2014

The pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) involves alterations to multiple pathways and processes, which represent a significant challenge for developing more-effective therapies. Systems biology approaches that study pathway dysregulation should offer benefits by integrating molecular networks and dynamic models with current biological knowledge for understanding disease heterogeneity and response to therapy. In MS, abnormalities have been identified in several cytokine-signaling pathways, as well as those of other immune receptors. Among the downstream molecules implicated are Jak/Stat, NF-Kb, ERK1/3, p38 or Jun/Fos. Together, these data suggest that MS is likely to be associated with abnormalities in apoptosis/cell death, microglia activation, blood-brain barrier functioning, immune responses, cytokine production, and/or oxidative stress, although which pathways contribute to the cascade of damage and can be modulated remains an open question. While current MS drugs target some of these pathways, others remain untouched. Here, we propose a pragmatic systems analysis approach that involves the large-scale extraction of processes and pathways relevant to MS. These data serve as a scaffold on which computational modeling can be performed to identify disease subgroups based on the contribution of different processes. Such an analysis, targeting these relevant MS-signaling pathways, offers the opportunity to accelerate the development of novel individual or combination therapies.
‘It feels like someone is hammering my feet’: Understanding pain and its management from the perspective of people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Harrison Anthony M , Bogosian Angeliki , Silber Eli , McCracken Lance M , Moss-Morris Rona
Published: August 2014

Background:

Pain affects around 63% of people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Biomedical treatments demonstrate limited efficacy. More research is needed to understand pain from the individual’s perspective in order to better inform a patient-centred approach that improves engagement, self-management and outcome.

Objective:

The objective of this paper is to explore pwMS’ experience and responses to pain, and their perspectives on pain management.

Methods:

Twenty-five in-depth, semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and analysed using an inductive thematic analysis approach with elements of grounded theory.

Results:

Key themes included vivid descriptions of pain and beliefs that pain is unpredictable, a sign of damage and may worsen. Anger was a common emotional response. Two dominant pain management themes emerged: one related to pain reduction and another to acceptance. Those focusing on pain reduction appeared to engage in cycles in which they struggled with symptoms and experienced continued distress.

Conclusion:

Findings identify pain-related beliefs, emotional reactions and disparate pain-management attitudes. All may influence pwMS’ responses to pain and what they ask of their clinicians. Uncovering pwMS’ personal beliefs about pain, and introducing a broader biopsychosocial understanding of pain in the clinical context, may provide opportunities to rectify potentially unhelpful management choices and enhance pain acceptance.
Divorce and risk of hospital-diagnosed infectious diseases
Authors: Nielsen Nete Munk , Davidsen Rie B , Hviid Anders , Wohlfahrt Jan
Published: August 2014

Background: Although, divorce is considered to have a negative impact on morbidity, very little is known concerning exposure to divorce and risk of infectious diseases. We aimed to investigate the association between divorce and subsequent hospital contacts with infectious diseases. Methods: We performed a nation-wide cohort study, including all Danish men and women (n≈5.6 million) alive on the 1 January 1982 or later, and followed them for infectious disease diagnosed in hospital settings from 1982 to 2010. The association between divorce and risk of infectious diseases was evaluated through rate ratios (RRs) comparing incidence rates of infectious diseases between divorced and married pesons. Results: Compared with married persons, divorced persons were overall at a 1.48 fold (RR=1.48 (95% CI: 1.47–1.50)) increased risk of hospital-diagnosed infectious diseases (RR adjusted for sex, age, period, income and education). The risk of infectious diseases was slightly more pronounced for divorced women (RR=1.54 (1.52–1.56)) than divorced men ((RR=1.42 (1.41–1.44)). The increased risk remained almost unchanged even more than 15 years after the divorce. Young age at divorce, short duration of marriage and number of divorces further increased the risk of infectious diseases, whereas number of children at time of divorce had no impact on risk of hospital-diagnosed infectious diseases following the divorce. Conclusions: Divorce appears to have a moderate but long lasting impact on the risk of infectious diseases. The underlying mechanism is unknown but shared risk factors predicting divorce and infectious diseases could contribute to our findings.
Starting small and building out with Ernie Stringer: Personal insights into action research and educational change
Authors: Dustman Eric L , Kohan Mark B , Stringer Ernie T
Published: August 2014

The impact of Ernie Stringer’s life and work over the last five decades is far-reaching and shows a sustained commitment to community development and educational change. This interview, the third in a series about action research and its most influential thinkers, provides insight into Ernie’s diverse and devoted career with action research. Because Ernie is a leading scholar and practitioner in the field, his wisdom and experience strengthen the ability of other action researchers and citizens to create “big differences from small actions.”
The effects of GLP-1 analogues, DPP-4 inhibitors and SGLT2 inhibitors on the renal system
Authors: Schernthaner Guntram , Mogensen Carl Erik , Schernthaner Gerit-Holger
Published: August 2014

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) affects an estimated 20%–40% of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Key modifiable risk factors for DN are albuminuria, anaemia, dyslipidaemia, hyperglycaemia and hypertension, together with lifestyle factors, such as smoking and obesity. Early detection and treatment of these risk factors can prevent DN or slow its progression, and may even induce remission in some patients. DN is generally preceded by albuminuria, which frequently remains elevated despite treatment in patients with T2DM. Optimal treatment and prevention of DN may require an early, intensive, multifactorial approach, tailored to simultaneously target all modifiable risk factors. Regular monitoring of renal function, including urinary albumin excretion, creatinine clearance and glomerular filtration rate, is critical for following any disease progression and making treatment adjustments. Dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4 inhibitors and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors lower blood glucose levels without additional risk of hypoglycaemia, and may also reduce albuminuria. Further investigation of the potential renal benefits of DPP-4 and SGLT2 inhibitors is underway.
Why Does Geoprivacy Matter? The Scientific Publication of Confidential Data Presented on Maps
Authors: Kounadi Ourania , Leitner Michael
Published: August 2014

We examined published maps containing sensitive data, and the protection methods, if any, that were used. We investigated whether the many published warnings about disclosure risk have been effective in reducing privacy risk. During an 8-year period (2005-2012), 19 journals related to GIScience, geography, spatial crime analysis, and health geography were examined. We identified 41 articles that display actual confidential information and 16 articles where confidential information is protected by the use of a geographical mask. During the investigated time frame, the numbers of articles with unmasked confidential data increased, and in total more than 68,000 home addresses were disclosed. One of the more significant findings of this study is that efforts to instill sensitivity to location privacy and disclosure risk have been relatively unsuccessful.
Impact of Non-Welfare Interests on Willingness to Donate to Biobanks
Authors: Gornick Michele C. , Ryan Kerry A. , Kim Scott Y. H.
Published: August 2014

The ethical debate surrounding biobanks has focused on protecting donors’ welfare and privacy. However, little attention has been given to the ethical significance of donor interests that go beyond privacy and welfare (non-welfare interests [NWIs]), such as their concerns about the moral or religious implications of researchers using their donated samples. Using an experimental survey design with 1,276 participants recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk), we studied the potential impact of eight NWI scenarios on people’s attitudes toward research studies being performed on samples donated to biobanks by assessing willingness to donate, attitudes toward disclosure of NWIs, impact of timing and format of disclosure (number of NWIs disclosed on a page), and participant factors associated with willingness to donate. Baseline willingness to donate to biobanks prior to any mention of NWIs was comparable with previous studies, at 85% to 89%. Most participants wanted NWI disclosures prior to donation to biobanks, but far fewer favored specific consent. Overall pattern of responses showed that as participants receive more information about NWIs, willingness to donate decreases in a scenario dependent manner. Specifically, NWI concerns about profit seeking research and insurance risk assessment had the strongest impact, even greater than controversial issues such as reproductive research, regardless of political, religious, and most other characteristics of respondents. Based on the results, a schema of NWI types is proposed that could be used for further research and policy discussions.
Teriflunomide in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: current evidence and future prospects
Authors: Oh Jiwon , O’Connor Paul W.
Published: August 2014

A number of novel oral agents are now approved for use in relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). Among these agents, teriflunomide has shown promise with respect to clinical efficacy and safety in relapsing MS patients. In this review we aim to clarify the role of teriflunomide in the context of current and emerging MS treatment options by summarizing relevant points on the use of teriflunomide in MS, with a discussion of teriflunomide’s pharmacologic properties, pivotal clinical trials, and safety and tolerability.
Targeting angiogenesis in advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Eskander Ramez N. , Tewari Krishnansu S.
Published: August 2014

Patients with advanced stage or recurrent cervical cancer represent a population with limited chemotherapeutic options. More specifically, patients with recurrent disease have a poor salvage rate, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 10%. This year, the first prospective phase III clinical trial exploring the anti-angiogenic agent, bevacizumab, was published, meeting its primary endpoint, with a significant improvement in overall survival. As such, a review of anti-angiogenic therapy in the treatment of this disease is warranted.
Time to discontinuation of antipsychotic drugs in a schizophrenia cohort: influence of current treatment strategies
Authors: Kroken Rune A. , Kjelby Eirik , Wentzel-Larsen Tore , Mellesdal Liv S. , Jørgensen Hugo A. , Johnsen Erik
Published: August 2014

Background

Rates of discontinuation of antipsychotic treatment for patients with schizophrenia are high and evidence is limited by selective inclusion and high attrition in randomized controlled trials.

Aims

To study time to discontinuation of antipsychotic treatment for patients with schizophrenia.

Method

All patients with schizophrenia ( n = 396) discharged between 2005 and 2011 were followed until discontinuation (clinician or patient decided) of antipsychotic treatment or other endpoints. Univariate and multivariate survival analyses (with time on antipsychotic treatment as the dependent variable) using time-dependent variables were performed.

Results

Clozapine displayed lower risk for all-cause ( p < 0.001), clinician-decided ( p = 0.012) and patient-decided ( p = 0.039) discontinuation versus olanzapine oral treatment in the multivariate Cox regression. Second-generation long-acting injection antipsychotics (LAI) ( p = 0.015) and first-generation long-acting injection antipsychotics ( p = 0.013) showed significantly lower risks for patient-decided discontinuation than olanzapine oral.

Conclusion

Higher effectiveness of clozapine and LAI treatment versus oral olanzapine were identified in a clinical cohort of patients with schizophrenia.
Practical Utility of Color Doppler Sonography in the Evaluation of Endometrial Pathology
Authors: Runner Gabriel J. , Gerscovich Eugenio O. , Fodor Alexander , Shakeri Shidrokh , Oswal Hemlata , McGahan John P. , Corwin Michael T. , Cronan Michael S.
Published: August 2014

The sonographic findings and corresponding pathology reports of 83 premenopausal and 55 postmenopausal women were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate the significance of color Doppler imaging in the evaluation of the endometrium. Premenopausal women had flow noted in the single malignancy case and in 16 of 21 (76%) polyps, with 7 polyps (33%) presenting as a vascular pedicle. In postmenopausal women, flow was seen in 3 of 5 (60%) malignancies and 5 of 9 (56%) polyps, with 2 polyps (22%) presenting as a vascular pedicle. Postmenopausal women with thin endometria had flow in 1 of 2 (50%) polyps, while those with thicker endometria had flow in 4 of 7 (56%) polyps and 3 of 5 (60%) malignancies. The data showed that color Doppler imaging was useful in detecting vascular pedicles in endometrial polyps, but it was not otherwise helpful as an independent predictor of malignancy.
Fracture of steel nanocomposite made using accumulative roll bonding
Authors: Jamaati R. , Toroghinejad M. R. , Edris H. , Salmani M. R.
Published: August 2014

In this study, the fracture behaviour of steel based composite and nanocomposite fabricated by accumulative roll bonding process was investigated using scanning electron microscopy fractography. The nanocomposite failed through decohesion and then void nucleation and linking in the matrix near the reinforcement/matrix interface and without particle fracture mechanism, whereas the composite failed through both decohesion and particle fracture mechanisms and then void nucleation, growth, and coalescence in the matrix near the reinforcement. The results indicated that the fracture mode after first cycle for pure interstitial steel, composite and nanocomposite is combination of ductile and shear ductile fracture. But, with increasing the number of cycles, the dimple size and the dimple depth decreased.
Effect of Sm on hydrogen storage performance of La–Sm–Mg–Ni alloys
Authors: Sun T. , Chen Y. , Tang R. H. , Wang Y. , Xiao F. M. , Liuzhang O. Y. , Wang H. , Zhu M. , Liu J. W.
Published: August 2014

In this study, Sm was adopted in order to completely replace the expensive Pr/Nd elements in the A2B7 type alloy. The results indicate that Sm is a favourable element for forming Ce2Ni7 type and Ce5Co19 type phases. With the increasing amount of Sm, the discharge capacity of the alloy retains a value of 283·3 mAh g−1 at the current density of 1200 mA g−1. The maximum discharge capacity of the alloys increases with the increasing Sm content when Mg content is relatively low. By optimising the composition and processing technology, the cycle life the alloy enhances from 74 cycles to more than 540 cycles, and the maximum discharge capacity also increases from 300 to 355 mAh g−1.
Human blood BDCA-1 dendritic cells differentiate into Langerhans-like cells with thymic stromal lymphopoietin and TGF-β
Authors: Martínez-Cingolani Carolina , Grandclaudon Maximilien , Jeanmougin Marine , Jouve Mabel , Zollinger Raphaël , Soumelis Vassili
Published: August 2014

Key Points

Human blood BDCA-1+ DCs have precursor potential. TSLP can be implicated in LC ontogenesis during inflammation.
Influence of KIR genes and their HLA ligands in the pathogenesis of leprosy in a hyperendemic population of Rondonópolis, Southern Brazil
Authors: Jarduli Luciana Ribeiro , Alves Hugo Vicentin , de Souza-Santana Fabiana Covolo , Marcos Elaine Valim Camarinha , Pereira Ana Carla , Dias-Baptista Ida Maria Foschiani , Fava Vinícius Medeiros , Mira Marcelo Távora , Moraes Milton Ozório , Virmond Marcos da Cunha Lopes , Visentainer Jeane Eliete Laguila
Published: August 2014

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between KIR genes and the immunopathogenesis of leprosy.

Methods

The types of KIR and HLA genes were evaluated by PCR-SSOP-Luminex in 408 patients with leprosy and 413 healthy individuals. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test and stepwise multivariate analysis.

Results

There was a higher frequency of activating KIR genes (KIR2DS1,2DS2and3DS1) together with their HLA ligands in the tuberculoid (TT) group as compared to the lepromatous leprosy (LL) group.KIR2DL2/2DL2-C1was more frequent in the patient, TT and LL groups than in the control group. Borderline patients presented a higher frequency of inhibitory pairs when compared to the control group, and a higher frequency of activating pairs as compared to the LL group. Multivariate analysis confirmed the associations and demonstrated that being a female is a protective factor against the development of the diseaseper seand the more severe clinical form.

Conclusions

This study showed that activating and inhibitory KIR genes may influence the development of leprosy – in particular, activating genes may protect against the more aggressive form of the disease – thereby demonstrating the role of NK cells in the immunopathology of the disease.
Effects of direct current electric-field using ITO plate on breast cancer cell migration
Authors: Kim Min Sung , Lee Mi Hee , Kwon Byeong-Ju , Seo Hyok Jin , Koo Min-Ah , You Kyung Eun , Kim Dohyun , Park Jong-Chul
Published: August 2014

Background

Cell migration is an essential activity of the cells in various biological phenomena. The evidence that electrotaxis plays important roles in many physiological phenomena is accumulating. In electrotaxis, cells move with a directional tendency toward the anode or cathode under direct-current electric fields. Indium tin oxide, commonly referred to as ITO has high luminous transmittance, high infrared reflectance, good electrical conductivity, excellent substrate adherence, hardness and chemical inertness and hence, have been widely and intensively studied for many years. Because of these properties of ITO films, the electrotaxis using ITO plate was evaluated.

Results

Under the 0 V/cm condition, MDA-MB-231 migrated randomly in all directions. When 1 V/cm of dc EF was applied, cells moved toward anode. The y forward migration index was -0.046 ± 0.357 under the 0 V/cm and was 0.273 ± 0.231 under direct-current electric field of 1 V/cm. However, the migration speed of breast cancer cell was not affected by direct-current electric field using ITO plate.

Conclusions

In this study, we designed a new electrotaxis system using an ITO coated glass and observed the migration of MDA-MB-231 on direct current electric-field of the ITO glass.
Getting older can be exhausting
Authors: Mittal Rohit , Ford Mandy L , Coopersmith Craig M
Published: August 2014

Sepsis is a disease that affects primarily the aged. Although mortality is higher in both older septic patients and aged septic mice, the mechanisms underlying decreased survival in older hosts are incompletely understood. New work by Inoue and colleagues demonstrates persistent inflammation and T-cell exhaustion in older septic patients and aged septic mice. The clinical significance of these findings is manifested not only in increased mortality but also in a marked difference in secondary infections in older patients as long as a month following ICU admission.
Green chemistry, sustainable agriculture and processing systems: a Brazilian overview
Authors: Perlatti Bruno , Forim Moacir R , Zuin Vânia G
Published: August 2014

There is a pressing need for renewable and optimal use of resources towards sustainable primary production and processing systems worldwide. Current technologies for food and feedstock production are held accountable for several environmental problems, such as for instance soil and water contamination due to the use of hazardous substances, generation of toxic products and even excess of biomass that is considered waste. To minimize or solve these questions in order to produce an adequate quantity of reliable and healthy food, fibers and other products and energy, new paradigms focusing on sustainable agriculture, bio-based industries or biorefineries have emerged over the last decades. Biorefineries integrate sustainable and environmentally friendly concepts of Green Chemistry with intelligent and integrated farming processes, optimizing the agricultural production. Thermochemical and biochemical processes are excellent alternatives for the production of new classes of renewable biofuels and feedstock, showing relatively small impact on greenhouse gas emissions and important pathways to obtain platform chemicals. This review discusses the current and incipient technological developments for using biomass to generate bio-based chemicals over the last decade, focusing on Green Chemistry concepts towards sustainable agriculture and processing models in Brazil.