bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Critical Role of Feedback in Formative Instructional Practices
Authors: Chan Paula E. , Konrad Moira , Gonzalez Viviana , Peters Mary T. , Ressa Virginia A.
Published: May 2014

Feedback provides a vehicle for integrating all components of formative instructional practices: clear learning targets, evidence of student learning, and student ownership in the process. Feedback is the keystone to formative instructional practices as it is one of the most powerful instructional tools available. This paper (a) describes the role feedback plays in formative instructional practices, (b) suggests some evidence-based instructional strategies practitioners can employ to increase opportunities for feedback about their instruction, and (c) recommends ways to enhance the effectiveness of the feedback students receive.
The Impact of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Programs on Criminal Justice Case Outcomes
Authors: Campbell Rebecca , Bybee Deborah , Townsend Stephanie M. , Shaw Jessica , Karim Nidal , Markowitz Jenifer
Published: May 2014

To address the underreporting and underprosecution of adult sexual assaults, communities throughout the United States have implemented multidisciplinary interventions to improve postassault care for victims and the criminal justice system response. One such model is the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program, whereby specially trained nurses provide comprehensive psychological, medical, and forensic services for sexual assault. In this study, we conducted a multisite evaluation of six SANE programs (two rural programs, two serving midsized communities, two urban) to assess how implementation of SANE programs affects adult sexual assault prosecution rates. At each site, most sexual assaults reported to law enforcement were never referred by police to prosecutors or were not charged by the prosecutor’s office (80%-89%). Individually, none of the sites had a statistically significant increase in prosecution rates pre-SANE to post-SANE. However, when the data were aggregated across sites, thereby increasing statistical power, there was a significant effect such that cases were more likely to be prosecuted post-SANE as compared with pre-SANE. These findings suggest that the SANE intervention model does have a positive impact on sexual assault case progression in the criminal justice system. Nevertheless, there is still a pressing need for improvement as the vast majority of both pre-SANE and post-SANE resulted in nonreferral/no charges filed.
Challenges and Opportunities for a Human Rights Frame in South Korea
Authors: Heo Min Sook , Rakowski Cathy A.
Published: May 2014

Korean feminists are keenly aware that transnational feminists emphasize a human rights framework to eradicate violence against women. But in the 1990s, they based their anti-domestic violence campaign on a frame of “preservation of the family” because it was more culturally resonant at the time than a human rights frame. The results include passage of two legislative Acts, failure to implement as intended, and a continued search for a more effective frame. Ironically, the human rights frame has re-emerged as a possible solution.
Continuation of all-trans retinoic acid despite the development of scrotal ulcerations in a black male
Authors: Sutherland Jennifer , Kempton Christine L , Curry Marjorie Adams
Published: May 2014

Acute promyelocytic leukemia, an aggressive subtype of acute myeloid leukemia, is characterized by the t(15;17) translocation. Standard induction chemotherapy consists of (ATRA) in combination with anthracycline-based chemotherapy with or without the addition of cytarabine. Rare and serious side effects of ATRA have been reported including painful lip and scrotal ulcerations. Of 20 previous reports of genital ulceration, 17 patients had ATRA discontinued and corticosteroids initiated; however, the corticosteroid regimens and duration of therapy were not well described. Herein we present the first known case of a Black male with ATRA-associated scrotal ulcerations who was successfully managed with corticosteroids without cessation of all-trans retinoic acid. We report this case to highlight its rarity and to note that ATRA can be continued in combination with corticosteroids throughout induction.
Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of a Novel Methylphenidate Extended-Release Oral Suspension (MEROS) in ADHD
Authors: Robb Adelaide S. , Findling Robert L. , Childress Ann C. , Berry Sally A. , Belden Heidi W. , Wigal Sharon B.
Published: May 2014

Objective: To test whether an optimal dose of Quillivant XR (methylphenidate extended-release oral suspension [MEROS]) would significantly reduce symptoms of ADHD in children. Method: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over, efficacy, safety, and tolerability study of MEROS in 45 children aged 6 to 12 years (open-label dose-optimization phase, followed by double-blind cross-over period). Results: MEROS was significantly more efficacious than placebo during double-blind cross-over laboratory classroom days (Swanson, Kotkin, Agler, M-Flynn, and Pelham Rating Scale and Permanent Product Measure of Performance). During the open-label phase, improvements were observed in scores of ADHD Rating Scale-IV, and Clinical Global Impression-Severity and -Improvement Scales. No occurrences of suicidal ideation or behavior were recorded; the most common open-label treatment-emergent adverse events were typical of stimulant use: decreased appetite, insomnia, and abdominal pain. Conclusion: MEROS was efficacious in the treatment of children aged 6 to 12 years with ADHD, with a safety profile similar to that of other extended-release methylphenidate pharmacotherapies.
Association Between Pubertal Onset and Symptoms of ADHD in Female University Students
Authors: Ostojic Dragana , Miller Carlin J.
Published: May 2014

Objective: This exploratory study investigated how the timing of female pubertal maturation was associated with the symptoms of ADHD in a non-clinical female undergraduate sample ( N = 253). Method: Participants ( Mage = 20.2 ± 1.7 years) completed a set of self-report rating scales examining pubertal onset and ADHD symptoms and related deficits. Results: Logistic regression analysis indicated that early puberty was associated with elevation in symptoms, including difficulties in attention (odds ratio [OR] = 1.270, p = .019), emotion regulation (OR = 1.070, p = .038), and more risky behavior (OR = 1.035, p = .045). That is, increased symptom endorsement was shown to significantly help classify those who reported having an earlier pubertal onset relative to their peers. Conclusion: Findings highlight the potential role of sex hormones during puberty in explaining the gender differences in prevalence rates of ADHD and symptom profiles.
Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Dialectical Behavior Therapy Group Skills Training for ADHD Among College Students
Authors: Fleming Andrew P. , McMahon Robert J. , Moran Lyndsey R. , Peterson A. Paige , Dreessen Anthony
Published: May 2014

Objective: ADHD affects between 2% and 8% of college students and is associated with broad functional impairment. No prior randomized controlled trials with this population have been published. The present study is a pilot randomized controlled trial evaluating dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) group skills training adapted for college students with ADHD. Method: Thirty-three undergraduates with ADHD between ages 18 and 24 were randomized to receive either DBT group skills training or skills handouts during an 8-week intervention phase. ADHD symptoms, executive functioning (EF), and related outcomes were assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and 3-month follow-up. Results: Participants receiving DBT group skills training showed greater treatment response rates (59-65% vs. 19-25%) and clinical recovery rates (53-59% vs. 6-13%) on ADHD symptoms and EF, and greater improvements in quality of life. Conclusion: DBT group skills training may be efficacious, acceptable, and feasible for treating ADHD among college students. A larger randomized trial is needed for further evaluation.
Associations Between Muscle-Related Cytokines and Selected Patient Outcomes in the ICU
Authors: Winkelman Chris , Johnson Kimberly D. , Gordon Nahida
Published: May 2014

Introduction:

Systemic cytokines produced by contracting skeletal muscles may affect the onset and severity of intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired weakness after critical illness.

Aims:

The purpose of this research was to determine the serum levels of interleukin (IL)-8, IL-15, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) among patients receiving mechanical ventilation for >48 hr and examine the relationships of these myokines to outcomes of patient delirium, muscle strength, activities of daily living (ADLs), duration of mechanical ventilation, and length of ICU stay.

Methods:

In this exploratory, repeated-measures interventional study, the 36 participants received 20 min of once-daily in-bed or out-of-bed activity using an established early progressive mobility protocol after physiologic stability had been demonstrated for >4 hr in the ICU. Blood samples were drawn on 3 consecutive days, beginning on the day of study enrollment, for serum cytokine quantification.

Results:

IL-8, IL-15, and TNF-α were highly variable and consistently elevated in participants compared to normal healthy adults. About 1/3 of participants were positive for significant muscle weakness at discharge from ICU. Repeated values of mean postactivity IL-8 serum values were significantly associated only with ADL following ICU discharge. There were no significant associations with repeated values of mean postactivity IL-15 or TNF-α serum values and outcomes.

Conclusion:

Results provide preliminary data for exploring the potential effects of elevated serum values IL-8 and IL-15 in muscle health and TNF-α for muscle damage, including effect sizes to calculate the sample sizes needed for future studies.
The effect of pelvic floor muscle training alone or in combination with electrostimulation in the treatment of sexual dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lúcio AC , D’Ancona CAL , Lopes MHBM , Perissinotto MC , Damasceno BP
Published: May 2014

Background:

Sexual dysfunction (SD) affects up to 80% of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) play an important role in the sexual function of these patients.

Objectives:

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the impact of a rehabilitation program to treat lower urinary tract symptoms on SD of women with MS.

Methods:

Thirty MS women were randomly allocated to one of three groups: pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) with electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback and sham neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) (Group I), PFMT with EMG biofeedback and intravaginal NMES (Group II), and PFMT with EMG biofeedback and transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) (Group III). Assessments, before and after the treatment, included: PFM function, PFM tone, flexibility of the vaginal opening and ability to relax the PFMs, and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire.

Results:

After treatment, all groups showed improvements in all domains of the PERFECT scheme. PFM tone and flexibility of the vaginal opening was lower after the intervention only for Group II. All groups improved in arousal, lubrication, satisfaction and total score domains of the FSFI questionnaire.

Conclusion:

This study indicates that PFMT alone or in combination with intravaginal NMES or TTNS contributes to the improvement of SD.
Telemedicine for retinal care in developing nations: the ORBIS Cyber-Sight programme, 2003–2011
Authors: Amin Sarina , Patel Rikin , Beilan Jonathan , Helveston Eugene M , Shaikh Saad
Published: May 2014

ORBIS International has provided a web-based ophthalmic disease consultation service, Cyber-Sight, for developing nations since 2003. The system connects partner physicians with mentor physicians. We have reviewed consultations concerning retinal cases submitted from June 2003 to December 2011. Of 943 retinal consultations reviewed, 117 were excluded, mainly for reasons of technical limitations at the partner sites. Of the 826 included cases, 504 patients were male and 322 were female. The average age of the patients was 43 years (range 2 months to 86 years). Cases were submitted from partner physicians in 30 countries, with five countries accounting for 82% of the cases (India, Vietnam, Indonesia, China, Jordan). There was a rise in the case submission rate to a peak of 251 cases in 2010. The mean consultant response time was 5 days (SD 9). The mean time to case closure was 19 days (SD 92). The most common diagnoses were diabetic retinopathy (n = 101), retinal vascular occlusion (n = 75) and retinal detachment (n = 61). The working diagnosis submitted by the partner did not match the mentor's diagnosis in 153 cases (19%). The number of incorrect initial partner diagnoses demonstrates that the teleretinal programme serves a useful diagnostic role for partner physicians. The Cyber-Sight programme is a viable method of delivering advanced retinal expertise to partner institutions and increasing capacity for partner doctors in the developing world.
Ischemic postconditioning does not improve peripheral endothelial function in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients
Authors: Dwyer Nathan B , Hilland Darlene , Traboulsi Mouhieddin , Anderson Todd J
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine whether ischemic postconditioning (IPC) could improve peripheral endothelial function in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Of 102 patients randomly assigned to an IPC or standard protocol to study infarct size utilizing cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, 84 patients had peripheral endothelial function assessed with brachial ultrasound measures and peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT) during reactive hyperemia 3 days after PCI. Overall IPC was not associated with a smaller infarct size compared to controls, though there was a trend towards greater myocardial salvage with IPC. Patients randomized to IPC (n=43; age 56 ± 11 years; 85% male) and standard protocol (n=41; age 56 ± 10 years; 88% male) underwent endothelial function assessment. Flow mediated vasodilatation was not significantly greater in the IPC group than in the standard group (7.4 ± 4.9% versus 6.6 ± 4.0% respectively, p=0.40) nor was peak hyperemic velocity-time integral (78 ± 26 cm versus 71 ± 30 cm respectively, p=0.28). Similarly, the PAT hyperemic ratio was not significantly greater in the IPC group than in the standard group (2.0 ± 0.9 versus 1.8 ± 0.6 respectively, p=0.14). In conclusion, IPC did not improve early peripheral endothelial function in patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI.
Nonlinear dynamics modeling and analysis of transmission error of wind turbine planetary gear system
Authors: Zhao Yang , Ahmat Mutellip , Bari Kalbinur
Published: May 2014

In this paper, a type of planetary gear system in the wind turbine was studied by taking into account the actual conditions where the planetary gear system works. A nonlinear multi-gap planetary gear system finite element method model was established, and the engagement stress, the displacement, and the velocity curve with time of nodes of the planetary gear system were obtained by using explicit dynamic solution method. Under different speeds and different load, the variation of planetary gear system dynamic transmission error was then studied combined with the theory of gearing. The results showed that it is different from the dynamic transmission error of planetary gear system and planetary gear. Time-varying mesh stiffness of sun gear and the ring gear are also different along with their speed change. There are some correlation among time-varying mesh stiffness, meshing impact stress, and dynamic transmission errors. Therefore, it is suggested that the meshing stiffness and impact stress effect on the dynamic transmission error should be considered in the study of transmission error of wind turbine planetary gear system.
Intensifying the tourist experience: ‘Survenirs’ at Daly Waters Pub
Authors: Muecke Stephen , Wergin Carsten
Published: May 2014

An experiment in both form and content, the essay lightly adopts an Australian storytelling style to perform its material as it narrates a road trip across central Australia. Arriving at the Daly Waters Pub in the Northern Territory, the travellers are taken by surprise by the strange décor. It is a place made significant by the multiple ‘authorships’ of hundreds of tourists. Visitors have left not only ID cards, pictures, and signatures, but also flags, number plates, thongs, caps, and bras. We analyse these traces left by travellers as objects of exchange that signify people’s desire to mark a place and use this phenomenon to introduce the idea of a complementary concept to that of the ‘souvenir’, and which we call ‘survenir’. The palimpsest effect of these survenirs (since none is erased) introduces time by accretion, rather than by chronology. The sociality generated through ‘survenirs’ is not just among humans but among all sorts of things, concepts and affects that assemble to create Daly Waters Pub as a tourist destination made not for, but by, its visitors. It is a materially interactive site composed by them.
National healthcare rhetoric beyond the nation: The materiality of narrative in cosmetic surgery tourism
Authors: Gimlin Debra
Published: May 2014

This article examines the narrative strategies employed by US and UK plastic surgeons’ associations to discredit the practice of aesthetic tourism. Cosmetic surgery tourism, one of a broad set of activities involving travel for medical care, represents a growing marketplace and, thus, a significant professional threat to aesthetic/plastic surgeons practising ‘at home’. Drawing from an analysis of five associations’ websites, I argue that their claims about aesthetic tourism’s dangers reflect the same repertoires of evaluation – that is, lines of argumentation deemed credible within particular national settings – employed by American and British consumers of cosmetic surgery to defend their actions as ‘deserved’ and ‘legitimate’. While evaluative repertoires are grounded in material conditions, those conditions allow for flexibility in their implementation. When US and UK physicians’ associations employ the narrative strategies made available by their own nation, they do so in ways that present cosmetic surgery – when conducted abroad – as ‘undeserved’ and ‘illegitimate’.
The rut and the gutter: space and time in graphic narrative
Authors: Dittmer Jason , Latham Alan
Published: May 2014

This paper brings together comics studies and geography to consider how space operates both on and off the comics page. We integrate discussion of comics’ formal properties with a site-specific comics installation (Dave McKean’s The Rut) to show the intertwining of these spaces. Our argument is articulated through juxtaposition of the literature on space-time in comics with our case study. This montage speaks to graphic narratives’ formal properties, especially its alchemic, emergent nature. Our argument begins by introducing The Rut as an example of how space and narrative can be intertwined. Our argument tacks back to the literature, discussing the pluralization of time-space(s) throughout recent writing within human geography and how this can help us think with The Rut. We then briefly describe the way The Rut is physically laid out. Returning once again to the literature, we argue that the topological figuration of comics is mediated by readers’ practices of relation-building and narrative construction, which are in turn impacted by the irreversible nature of time. This is demonstrated for The Rut through experience of the art as well as participant observation. Finally, we highlight how actual spaces are overlaid with virtual spaces that help shape the actualized version; we illustrate this by showing how the embodied experience of The Rut’s materiality was productive of a multiplicity of experiential spaces, both actual and virtual. We close by drawing three conclusions: the first about the implications of graphic narrative’s relational ontology for how social scientists narrate socio-spatial processes; the second, a call for more empirical work examining the emergence, evolution, and dissipation of topological spaces; and the third about the political possibility of initiating new practices of ‘reading’ spaces and times to produce and access new ways of being in the world.
Becoming literate in desire with Alan Partridge
Authors: Kingsbury Paul
Published: May 2014

For many of us, doing psychoanalytic geography demands something akin to a leap of faith. Questioning this assumption, the main purpose of this paper is to shift the terms of discussion about doing psychoanalytic geography from the realm of faith to critique. Drawing on Joan Copjec’s, Read My Desire: Lacan Against the Historicists (1994), I argue that much of the uncertainty surrounding the research practices of psychoanalytic geography results from inadequate understandings of two fundamental and interrelated psychoanalytic principles. First, causes and effects cannot occupy the same phenomenal terrain. Second, the taking place of society involves a split between appearance, that is, its observable positive facts and relations, and being, that is, its generative principle and the mode of its institution. According to Copjec, a syncopated relation between being and appearance is not only central to Jacques Lacan’s concept of desire; it is also a neglected axiom that distinguishes psychoanalytic from historicist accounts of the spatial and temporal configurations of society. But what is desire and how can we become, to use Copjec’s phrase, ‘literate in desire’? To answer this question, I explore the empirical example of the fictional comic character Alan Partridge (played by Steve Coogan) who exemplifies the taking place of desire as a self-hindering process in terms of the illusoriness, opacity, and duplicity of language.
The Significant Frequency and Impact of Stealth (Nonviolent) Gender-Based Abuse Among College Women
Authors: Belknap Joanne , Sharma Nitika
Published: May 2014

The prevalence, incidence, and impact of the gender-based abuse (GBA) of college women have been increasingly documented since the 1980s, with growing precision in the measurements and expanding identification of tactics. Although there is an obvious class bias in focusing on college women (compared to women of similar ages not attending college), it is important to address GBA among this population as they are at serious risk of sexual abuse (particularly incapacitated rape), intimate partner abuse (IPA), and stalking. This article addresses the stealth nature of the nonviolent GBAs of college women and how these abuses frequently operate under the radar of acknowledgment by society, the abusers, campus officials, the criminal legal system, and sometimes, the survivors.
Screening, diagnosis and management of gestational diabetes mellitus: A national survey
Authors: Sukumaran S , Madhuvrata P , Bustani R , Song S , Farrell T A
Published: May 2014

Background and methods

We conducted a National survey between February and June 2012 to evaluate the practices concerning screening, diagnosis and management of Gestational Diabetes (GDM) in England.

Results

A total of 102/126 (80%) maternity units responded. The National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommended screening criteria were used by 83% of units. All the units performed 2 h 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) between 24 and 28 weeks. There was a wide variation in the diagnostic blood glucose values used by different units. About 86% of units used a 2 h blood glucose value of ≥7.8 mmol/l and 45% of units used fasting value ≥6.1 mmol/l to diagnose GDM. Only 26% of units advised self-monitoring of blood glucose pre meal and 1 h post-meal, whereas 64% of units advised monitoring 2 h after the meal. Metformin was started when women did not respond to dietary measures in 101 units (99%). Regular growth scans every four weeks from 28 weeks onwards were performed by 99 units (97%). Women on metformin with no complications were offered induction of labour at 38 completed weeks in 97 units (95%). 84 maternity units (82.3%) offered OGTT six weeks postnatally.

Conclusion

Our survey has shown consistency in screening using the NICE criteria, use of 2 h 75 g OGTT at 24–28 weeks, in providing dietary support, use of metformin and ultrasound for fetal growth. But there is wide variation in the criteria used to diagnose GDM, self-monitoring of blood glucose, induction of labour and six weeks postnatal testing.
Reducing Risk for Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Goldstein Carly M. , Xie Susan S. , Hawkins Misty A. W. , Hughes Joel W.
Published: May 2014

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to be the leading cause of death in America despite contributions from largely preventable, behaviorally based risk factors. Four of the primary behavioral risk factors are poor diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and alcohol abuse. These negative health behaviors are highly prevalent in American college students, a subgroup of emerging adults. Thus, this article aims to propose a new conceptual framework for understanding the need for prevention and intervention of CVD in emerging adults. Following a brief review of the recent literature on the prevalence and nature of these behaviors in college students, existing and potential interventions are discussed with the goal of identifying targets for CVD prevention in young adults. As emerging adults, college students are uniquely situated for behavior change, as their environment and life stage provide the ideal opportunity to reform negative and develop healthy behaviors that will reduce their risk for CVD development.
Smartphone-Compatible Ultrasound Probe
Authors: Jones Delores
Published: May 2014

Smartphones are one of the most widely used cell phones in the United States today. They perform multiple functions, and in April 2009, another capability was added to that list. Smartphones are now able to display sonographic images of the human body and organs through use of a smartphone-compatible ultrasound probe. The probe can be plugged into the USB slot of a smartphone and used to allow gray-scale image visualization. This article discusses the function and structure of this new and emerging technology while looking at the impact of this technology on the field of sonography.
Human Enhancement: The New Eugenics
Authors: Vizcarrondo Felipe E.
Published: May 2014

Supporters of human enhancement through genetic and other reproductive technologies claim that the new liberal eugenics, based on science and individual consent differs from the old eugenics which was unscientific and coercive. Supporters claim it is the parent's moral obligation to produce the best children possible. At this time, a defective gene that is identified in an unborn child cannot be repaired. To prevent the manifestation of the undesirable trait the unborn child is destroyed. The arguments in support of human enhancement are based on an ethic of consequence that could allow for nearly any means as long as the desired end is reached. Medical enhancement may affect the parent–child family unit; the parents’ love for the child may be conditioned on the expected results. The new eugenics, although based on science, continues to pursue the same goal as the old eugenics, the development of a superior individual and the elimination of those considered inferior.
Current concepts in the diagnosis and management of cytokine release syndrome
Authors: Lee Daniel W. , Gardner Rebecca , Porter David L. , Louis Chrystal U. , Ahmed Nabil , Jensen Michael , Grupp Stephan A. , Mackall Crystal L.
Published: May 2014

As immune-based therapies for cancer become potent, more effective, and more widely available, optimal management of their unique toxicities becomes increasingly important. Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is a potentially life-threatening toxicity that has been observed following administration of natural and bispecific antibodies and, more recently, following adoptive T-cell therapies for cancer. CRS is associated with elevated circulating levels of several cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6 and interferon γ, and uncontrolled studies demonstrate that immunosuppression using tocilizumab, an anti-IL-6 receptor antibody, with or without corticosteroids, can reverse the syndrome. However, because early and aggressive immunosuppression could limit the efficacy of the immunotherapy, current approaches seek to limit administration of immunosuppressive therapy to patients at risk for life-threatening consequences of the syndrome. This report presents a novel system to grade the severity of CRS in individual patients and a treatment algorithm for management of CRS based on severity. The goal of our approach is to maximize the chance for therapeutic benefit from the immunotherapy while minimizing the risk for life threatening complications of CRS.
Prolonged shedding of rhinovirus and re-infection in adults with respiratory tract illness
Authors: Zlateva Kalina T. , de Vries Jutte J.C. , Coenjaerts Frank E.J. , van Loon Anton M. , Verheij Theo , Little Paul , Butler Christopher C. , Goossens Herman , Ieven Margareta , Claas Eric C.J.
Published: May 2014

Rhinovirus infections occur frequently throughout life and have been reported in about one-third of asymptomatic cases. The clinical significance of sequential rhinovirus infections remains unclear.

To determine the incidence and clinical relevance of sequential rhinovirus detections, nasopharyngeal samples from 2485 adults with acute cough/lower respiratory illness were analysed. Patients were enrolled prospectively by general practitioners from 12 European Union countries during three consecutive years (2007–2010). Nasopharyngeal samples were collected at the initial general practitioner consultation and 28 days thereafter and symptom scores were recorded by patients over that period.

Rhinovirus RNA was detected in 444 (18%) out of 2485 visit one samples and in 110 (4.4%) out of 2485 visit two respiratory samples. 21 (5%) of the 444 patients had both samples positive for rhinovirus. Genotyping of both virus detections was successful for 17 (81%) out of 21 of these patients. Prolonged rhinovirus shedding occurred in six (35%) out of 21 and re-infection with a different rhinovirus in 11 (65%) out of 21. Rhinovirus re-infections were significantly associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p=0.04) and asthma (p=0.02) and appeared to be more severe than prolonged infections.

Our findings indicate that in immunocompetent adults rhinovirus re-infections are more common than prolonged infections, and chronic airway comorbidities might predispose to more frequent rhinovirus re-infections.
Depression and suicidality in COPD: understandable reaction or independent disorders?
Authors: Hegerl Ulrich , Mergl Roland
Published: May 2014

Both depression and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are prevalent, severe and often comorbid disorders. There is a risk of undertreatment for depression in patients with COPD as depressive symptoms, including suicidal tendencies, can erroneously be conceptualised as an understandable reaction to COPD and not as signs of an independent depressive disorder. In this context, the comorbidity rates of COPD and depression, the risk of suicidal behaviour in patients with COPD, and the evidence base for pharmaco- and psychotherapy in these patients are reviewed.

Because symptoms of depression and COPD overlap it remains unclear how far the prevalence of major depression in COPD exceeds that in the general population. The suicide risk appears to be increased in COPD. Methodological studies providing evidence for the antidepressant efficacy of antidepressants or psychotherapy in patients with COPD are lacking. Recommendations for clinicians on how to separate depression from an understandable reaction to COPD are provided.

Given the profound effects of depression on quality of life, life expectancy, COPD prognosis and suicide risk it is important to carefully diagnose and treat depression in patients with COPD according to national guidelines.
The clinical and genetic features of COPD-asthma overlap syndrome
Authors: Hardin Megan , Cho Michael , McDonald Merry-Lynn , Beaty Terri , Ramsdell Joe , Bhatt Surya , van Beek Edwin J.R. , Make Barry J. , Crapo James D. , Silverman Edwin K. , Hersh Craig P.
Published: May 2014

Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are an important but poorly characterised group. The genetic determinants of COPD and asthma overlap have not been studied. The aim of this study was to identify clinical features and genetic risk factors for COPD and asthma overlap.

Subjects were current or former smoking non-Hispanic whites or African–Americans with COPD. Overlap subjects reported a history of physician-diagnosed asthma before the age of 40 years. We compared clinical and radiographic features between COPD and overlap subjects. We performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in the non-Hispanic whites and African–American populations, and combined these results in a meta-analysis. More females and African–Americans reported a history of asthma. Overlap subjects had more severe and more frequent respiratory exacerbations, less emphysema and greater airway wall thickness compared to subjects with COPD alone.

The non-Hispanic white GWAS identified single nucleotide polymorphisms in the genesCSMD1(rs11779254, p=1.57×10−6) andSOX5(rs59569785, p=1.61×10−6) and the meta-analysis identified single nucleotide polymorphisms in the geneGPR65(rs6574978, p=1.18×10−7) associated with COPD and asthma overlap.

Overlap subjects have more exacerbations, less emphysema and more airway disease for any degree of lung function impairment compared to COPD alone. We identified novel genetic variants associated with this syndrome. COPD and asthma overlap is an important syndrome and may require distinct clinical management.
Trust of second-generation immigrants: intergenerational transmission or cultural assimilation?
Authors: Moschion Julie , Tabasso Domenico
Published: May 2014

This paper studies the respective influences of intergenerational transmission and the environment in shaping individual trust. Focusing on second generation immigrants in Australia and the United States, we exploit the variation in the home country and in the host country to separate the effect of cultural transmission from that of the social and economic conditions on individual trust. Our results indicate that trust in the home country contributes to the trust of second generation immigrants in both of the host countries, and marginally more in the United States. Social and economic conditions in the host country also affect individual trust.

JEL classification

J15, O15, Z10
Is high-frequency oscillatory ventilation more effective and safer than conventional protective ventilation in adult acute respiratory distress syndrome patients? A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Gu Xiao-ling , Wu Guan-nan , Yao Yan-wen , Shi Dong-hong , Song Yong
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Comprehensively evaluating the efficacy and safety of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) is important to allow clinicians who are using or considering this intervention to make appropriate decisions.

Methods

To find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing HFOV with conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV) as an initial treatment for adult ARDS patients, we searched electronic databases (including PubMed, MedLine, Springer Link, Elsevier Science Direct, ISI web of knowledge, and EMBASE) with the following terms: “acute respiratory distress syndrome”, “acute lung injury”, and “high frequency oscillation ventilation”. Additional sources included reference lists from the identified primary studies and relevant meta-analyses. Two investigators independently screened articles and extracted data. Meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models.

Results

We included 6 RCTs with a total of 1,608 patients in this meta-analysis. Compared with CMV, HFOV did not significantly reduce the mortality at 30 or 28 days. The pooled relative risk (RR) was 1.051 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.813 to 1.358). ICU mortality was also not significantly reduced in HFOV group, with a pooled RR of 1.218 (95% CI 0.925 to 1.604). The pooled effect sizes of HFOV for oxygenation failure, ventilation failure and duration of mechanical ventilation were 0.557 (95% CI 0.351 to 0.884), 0.892 (95% CI 0.435 to 1.829) and 0.079 (95% CI −0.045 to 0.203), respectively. The risk of barotrauma and hypotension were similar between the CMV group and HFOV group, with a RR of 1.205 (95% CI 0.834 to 1.742) and a RR of 1.326 (95% CI 0.271 to 6.476), respectively.

Conclusions

Although HFOV seems not to increase the risk of barotrauma or hypotension, and reduces the risk of oxygenation failure, it does not improve survival in adult acute respiratory distress syndrome patients.
Different ways to make neurons: parallel evolution in the SoxBfamily
Authors: Neriec Nathalie , Desplan Claude
Published: May 2014

Combining genome-wide analyses of binding sites and expression profiles generates a model for the functional evolution of two SOXB paralogous proteins in neurogenesis.
Surface effects on electronic transport of 2D chalcogenide thin films and nanostructures
Authors: Jung Yeonwoong , Shen Jie , Cha Judy J
Published: May 2014

The renewed interest in two-dimensional materials, particularly transition metal dichalcogenides, has been explosive, evident in a number of review and perspective articles on the topic. Our ability to synthesize and study these 2D materials down to a single layer and to stack them to form van der Waals heterostructures opens up a wide range of possibilities from fundamental studies of nanoscale effects to future electronic and optoelectronic applications. Bottom-up and top-down synthesis and basic electronic properties of 2D chalcogenide materials have been covered in great detail elsewhere. Here, we bring attention to more subtle effects: how the environmental, surface, and crystal defects modify the electronic band structure and transport properties of 2D chalcogenide nanomaterials. Surface effects such as surface oxidation and substrate influence may dominate the overall transport properties, particularly in single layer chalcogenide devices. Thus, understanding such effects is critical for successful applications based on these materials. In this review, we discuss two classes of chalcogenides – Bi-based and Mo-based chalcogenides. The first are topological insulators with unique surface electronic properties and the second are promising for flexible optoelectronic applications as well as hydrogen evolution catalytic reactions.
Low-dose insulin-like growth factor binding proteins 1 and 2 and angiopoietin-like protein 3 coordinately stimulate ex vivo expansion of human umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells as assayed in NOD/SCID gamma null mice
Authors: Fan Xiubo , Gay Florence PH , Lim Francesca WI , Ang Justina ML , Chu Pat PY , Bari Sudipto , Hwang William YK
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) and angiopoietin-like proteins (ANGPTLs) can enhance the ex vivo expansion of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) when used with a standard cytokine cocktail of stem cell factor (SCF), thrombopoietin (TPO) and FLT3 ligand (FL). In order to determine the optimal dose and combination of IGFs, IGFBPs and ANGPTLs, serial dilution and full permutation of IGFBP1, IGFBP2, IGF2 and ANGPTL3 were applied on a cryopreserved umbilical cord blood mononuclear cell (UCB-MNC) ex vivo expansion system.

Methods

In this system, 4 × 105 cells/ml of UCB-MNCs were inoculated in serum-free Stemspan® medium (Stemcell technologies, vancouver, BC, Canada) supplied with standard basal cytokine combination of 100 ng/ml SCF, 50 ng/ml FL and 100 ng/ml TPO and supported by a bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cell layer.

Results

Paradoxically, experiment results showed that the highest expansion of CD34+CD38−CD90+ primitive progenitor was stimulated by cytokine combination of SCF + TPO + FL + IGFBP1 + IGFBP2 + ANGPTL3 at a low dose of 15 ng/ml IGFBP1 and 20 ng/ml IGFBP2 and ANGPTL3. This ex vivo expansion was further validated in 8-week-old to 10-week-old nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency interleukin 2 gamma chain null (NOD/SCID-IL2Rγ−/−) mice. Limiting dilution assay showed excellent correlation between the HSC ex vivo surface marker of CD34+CD38−CD90+ and the in vivo competitive repopulating unit (CRU) functional assay.

Conclusion

IGFBP1, IGFBP2, IGF2 and ANGPTL3 can stimulate the expansion of CD34+CD38−CD90+ primitive progenitor at low dose. The optimal combination comprises IGFBP1, IGFBP2 and ANGPTL3 together with the standard cytokine cocktail of SCF, FL and TPO. The CD34+CD38−CD90+ phenotype can serve as a surrogate ex vivo surface marker for HSCs due to consistency with the in vivo CRU functional assay.
3D inversion of airborne gravity-gradiometry data using cokriging
Authors: Geng Meixia , Huang Danian , Yang Qingjie , Liu Yinping
Published: May 2014

We developed a new method for interpretation of airborne gravity gradiometry data, based on cokriging inversion. The cokriging method that we evaluated minimized the theoretical estimation error variance by using auto- and crosscorrelations of several variables. It does not require iterations and can easily include complex a priori information. Moreover, the smoothing effects in the inverted density structure model can be reduced to a certain extent due to the anisotropy constrain in the covariance model. We compared the recovered models obtained by inverting the different combinations of gravity-gradient components to understand how different component combinations contributed to the resolution of the recovered model. The results indicated that including multiple components for inversion increased the resolution of the recovered density model and improved the structure delineation. Moreover, in the case in which the parameters of the variogram model are not well chosen, cokriging with multicomponent combinations can still correctly recover the geometry of the targeted sources. The survey data of the Vinton dome were considered as a case study. The results of the inversion were in good agreement with the known formation in the region. This supports the validity of our method.
5TNF-α and IL-1β Neutralization Ameliorates Angiotensin II-Induced Cardiac Damage in Male Mice
Authors: Wang Yueli , Li Yulin , Wu Yina , Jia Lixin , Wang Jijing , Xie Bo , Hui Mizhou , Du Jie
Published: May 2014

Inflammation is a key event in hypertensive organ damage, and TNF-α and IL-1β are elevated in hypertension. In this study, we evaluated the effects of TNF-α and IL-1β elevation on hypertensive cardiac damage by treatment with a bifunctional inflammatory inhibitor, TNF receptor 2-fragment crystalization-IL-1 receptor antagonist (TFI), which can neutralize these 2 cytokines simultaneously. A mouse hypertension model of angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion (1500 ng/kg·min for 7 d) was induced in wild-type mice. TNF-α and IL-1β were inhibited by TFI administration (5 mg/kg, every other day), the effects of inhibition on cardiac damage were examined, and its mechanism on inflammatory infiltration was further studied in vivo and in vitro. Ang II infusion induced cardiac injury, including increased macrophage infiltration, expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-12, IL-6, etc), and cardiac fibrosis, such as elevated α-smooth muscle actin, collagen I, and TGF-β expression. Importantly, the Ang II-induced cardiac injury was suppressed by TFI treatment. Moreover, TFI reduced the expression of adhesion molecules (intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 expression in Ang II-treated hearts. Additionally, blockade of TNF-α and IL-1β by TFI reduced monocyte adherence to endothelia cell and macrophage migration. This study demonstrates that blocking TNF-α and IL-1β by TFI prevents cardiac damage in response to Ang II, and targeting these 2 cytokines simultaneously might be a novel tool to treat hypertensive heart injury.
Endogenous NO Upon Estradiol-17β Stimulation and NO Donor Differentially Regulate Mitochondrial S-Nitrosylation in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Satohisa Seiro , Zhang Hong-hai , Feng Lin , Yang Ying-ying , Huang Lan , Chen Dong-bao
Published: May 2014

Adduction of a nitric oxide (NO) moiety (NO•) to cysteines termed as S-nitrosylation (SNO) has emerged as a crucial mechanism for NO signaling crucial for mediating the vascular effects of estrogens. Mitochondrion is a known vascular risk factor; however, the effects of estrogens on mitochondrial SNO are incompletely understood. In this study we determined the effects of estradiol-17β (E2β) on mitochondrial protein SNO in primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells and compared the mitochondrial nitroso-proteomes in E2β- and a NO donor S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO)-treated cells using a proteomics approach. Treatment with 10 nM E2β and 1 mM GSNO for 30 minutes significantly increased the levels of mitochondrial SNO-proteins. Subcellular localization of SNO-proteins showed mitochondria as the major cellular organelle for protein SNO in response to E2β and GSNO. E2β stimulated mitochondrial endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation and mitochondrial protein SNO that was enhanced by overexpression of mitochondrion or Golgi, but not membrane targeting eNOS constructs. We identified 11, 32, and 54 SNO-proteins in the mitochondria from the untreated, E2β-, and GSNO-treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells, respectively. Comparisons of the nitroso-proteomes revealed that common and different mitochondrial SNO-proteins were affected by endogenous NO on E2β stimulation and exogenous NO from donor. These SNO-proteins were associated with various mitochondrial functions, including energy and redox regulation, transport, iron homeostasis, translation, mitochondrial morphology, and apoptosis, etc. Collectively, we conclude that estrogens rapidly stimulate protein SNO in endothelial mitochondria via mitochondrial eNOS, providing a mechanism for mediating the vascular effects of estrogens.