bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Approach to Secularisation on the Individual Level
Authors: Lüchau Peter
Published: June 2014

The article tests a novel approach to secularisation, using Denmark as a test case. Secularisation is defined as the declining social significance of religion. Data from all four waves of the European Values Study is used. The analysis shows that there was a significant decline in the social significance of religion in Denmark from 1981 to 2008, even though there was no overall decline in religiosity. This suggests that the analysis of secularisation is improved by using a more precise operationalisation of the concept. It also suggests that secularisation is not necessarily related to declining religiosity.
Hobbes, Definitions, and Simplest Conceptions
Authors: Adams Marcus P.
Published: June 2014

Several recent commentators argue that Thomas Hobbes’s account of the nature of science is conventionalist. Engaging in scientific practice on a conventionalist account is more a matter of making sure one connects one term to another properly rather than checking one’s claims, e.g., by experiment. In this paper, I argue that the conventionalist interpretation of Hobbesian science accords neither with Hobbes’s theoretical account in De corpore and Leviathan nor with Hobbes’s scientific practice in De homine and elsewhere. Closely tied to the conventionalist interpretation is the deductivist interpretation, on which it is claimed that Hobbes believed sciences such as optics are deduced from geometry. I argue that Hobbesian science places simplest conceptions as the foundation for geometry and the sciences in which we use geometry, which provides strong evidence against both the conventionalist and deductivist interpretations.
Taxonomic revision of the species group rubripes of Corinna Koch, 1842 (Araneae; Corinnidae)
Authors: RODRIGUES BRUNO V.B. , BONALDO ALEXANDRE B.
Published: June 2014

The species of the group rubripes, which harbors the type species of the genus Corinna C. L. Koch, 1842, are revised, including 20 Neotropical species. Three previously known species are re-diagnosed: Corinna rubripes C. L. Koch, 1842, Corinna nitens (Keyserling, 1891) and Corinna mourai Bonaldo, 2000. New records of Corinna nitens are provided, including the first ones from Peru and Bolivia. Seventeen new species, all from Brazil, were described: C. aechmea n. sp., C. balacobaco n. sp., C. caatinga n. sp., C. demersa n. sp., C. escalvada n. sp., C. hyalina n. sp., C. jecatatu n. sp., C. kuryi n. sp., C. loiolai n. sp., C. maracas n. sp., C. regii n. sp., C. telecoteco n. sp., C. tranquilla n. sp., C. vesperata n. sp., C. vilanovae n. sp., C. zecarioca n. sp. and C. ziriguidum n. sp. A key for all twenty species of the group is presented.
Addition of Grape Seed Extract Renders Phosphoric Acid a Collagen-stabilizing Etchant
Authors: Liu Y. , Dusevich V. , Wang Y.
Published: June 2014

Previous studies found that grape seed extract (GSE), which is rich in proanthocyanidins, could protect demineralized dentin collagen from collagenolytic activities following clinically relevant treatment. Because of proanthocyanidin’s adverse interference to resin polymerization, it was believed that GSE should be applied and then rinsed off in a separate step, which in effect increases the complexity of the bonding procedure. The present study aimed to investigate the feasibility of combining GSE treatment with phosphoric acid etching to address the issue. It is also the first attempt to formulate collagen-cross-linking dental etchants. Based on Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy and digestion assay, it was established that in the presence of 20% to 5% phosphoric acid, 30 sec of GSE treatment rendered demineralized dentin collagen inert to bacterial collagenase digestion. Based on this positive result, the simultaneous dentin etching and collagen protecting of GSE-containing phosphoric acid was evaluated on the premise of a 30-second etching time. According to micro-Raman spectroscopy, the formulation containing 20% phosphoric acid was found to lead to overetching. Based on scanning and transmission electronic microscopy, this same formulation exhibited unsynchronized phosphoric acid and GSE penetration. Therefore, addition of GSE did render phosphoric acid a collagen-stabilizing etchant, but the preferable phosphoric acid concentration should be <20%.
Using Spelling to Screen Bilingual Kindergarteners At Risk for Reading Difficulties
Authors: Chua Shi Min , Rickard Liow Susan J. , Yeong Stephanie H. M.
Published: June 2014

For bilingual children, the results of language and literacy screening tools are often hard to interpret. This leads to late referral for specialized assessment or inappropriate interventions. To facilitate the early identification of reading difficulties in English, we developed a method of screening that is theory-driven yet suitable for first-language (L1) and second-language learners of English. We administered five conventional tests (phonological awareness, vocabulary, Wide Range Achievement Test–4 [WRAT-4] spelling, letter identification, rapid naming of digits) to 127 five-year-olds (60 English-L1, 67 Mandarin-L1) about 6 months after they started kindergarten, and used the WRAT-4 word reading score 6 months later as the outcome measure. Consistent with previous research, and with children with reading disabilities defined as below the 25 percentile on the reading outcome, logistic regression revealed that the full set of screening measures predicted reading disability status. However, when each predictor was taken as a single measure, spelling scores provided the best fit in terms of the compromise between sensitivity (.75) and specificity (.73) for an optimal cutoff point. Based on this exploratory study, group-administered spelling tasks could provide an efficient solution to screening difficulties in large classes of bilingual children.
Effect of simulated resistance, fleeing, and use of force on standardized field sobriety testing
Authors: Ho Jeffrey , Dawes Donald , Nystrom Paul , Moore Johanna , Steinberg Lila , Tilton Annemarie , Miner James
Published: June 2014

Introduction

When a law enforcement officer (LEO) stops a suspect believed to be operating (a vehicle) while impaired (OWI), the suspect may resist or flee, and the LEO may respond with force. The suspect may then undergo a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) to gauge impairment. It is not known whether resistance, fleeing, or actions of force can create an inaccurate SFST result. We examined the effect of resistance, fleeing, and force on the SFST.

Materials and Methods

Human volunteers were prospectively randomized to have a SFST before and after one of five scenarios: (1) five-second conducted electrical weapon exposure; (2) 100-yard (91.4 m) sprint; (3) 45-second physical fight; (4) police dog bite with protective gear; and (5) Oleoresin Capsicum spray to the face with eyes shielded. The SFST was administered and graded by a qualified LEO. After the SFST, the volunteer entered their scenario and was then administered another SFST. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. SFST performance was compared before and after using chi-square tests.

Results

Fifty-seven subjects enrolled. Three received a single-point penalty during one component of the three-component SFST pre-scenario. No subject received a penalty point in any components of the SFST post-scenario (p = 0.08).

Conclusions

This is the first human study to examine the effects of physical resistance, flight, and use of force on the SFST result. We did not detect a difference in the performance of subjects taking the SFST before and after exposure to resistance, flight, or a simulated use of force.
An unusual case of homicide with a crossbow and a hunting knife
Authors: Clerici Carlo Alfredo , Muccino Enrico , Gentile Guendalina , Marchesi Matteo , Veneroni Laura , Zoja Riccardo
Published: June 2014

Traumatic lethal injuries caused by crossbows are a rarity in forensic pathology. They occur as accidents, suicide and, more rarely, as murders. We report a case of murder received at the Institute of Legal Medicine in Milan carried out by two weapons – a crossbow and a hunting knife – that resulted in multiple thoraco-abdominal wounds. The case is also rare because of the unique circumstances involving the victim – a local service psychiatrist – and the perpetrator – a former medical specialist in psychiatry, suffering from a delusional psychotic disorder. The crossbow was the decisive instrument in the realization of the murder; it was chosen with premeditation for its high destructive capacity and the fact that it was easily obtainable, and it was used with darts that were specially modified to increase its harmful capacity. The presented case, as well as providing an opportunity to highlight the damaging effects of a rarely used weapon, stresses the problems inherent with access to tools such as the crossbow that are used in sport, and which are potentially dangerous but easily accessible, even to those with serious mental disorders, rendering them legally unfit for using firearms.
Microscopic Background Changes in Brains of Cynomolgus Monkeys
Authors: Butt Mark Timothy , Whitney Katharine Mason , Davis Wendell , Akella Surekha , Parker Suezanne , Foley George L.
Published: June 2014

Brain sections from control cynomolgus monkeys ( Macaca fascicularis) used in toxicology studies were evaluated retrospectively in order to better understand spontaneous background changes in this species. Hematoxylin and eosin–stained slides from 76 animals (38 males and 38 females) of 9 studies were examined. Eleven animals (9 males and 2 females) were each observed to have 1 to 3 findings within the brain sections examined, for a total of 19 findings. No findings were noted in the spinal cord. The most common finding was focal to multifocal perivascular infiltration of mononuclear cells, affecting the parenchyma, the meninges, or the choroid plexus. Additionally, focal gliosis was observed in 6 animals and a single focus of hemosiderin deposition (coincident with focal gliosis and mononuclear cell infiltrate) was noted in 1 animal. Most of the glial foci were composed of cells consistent with microglial cells, with or without admixed lymphocytes. All findings were of slight or minimal severity, lacked an apparent cause, and were considered incidental and of negligible biologic significance. An awareness of the spontaneous incidence of these background findings may facilitate the discernment of toxicologically relevant effects when these findings are observed.
Crying as Communication in Domestic Helper Narratives
Authors: Ladegaard Hans J.
Published: June 2014

Most research on adult crying is based on questionnaires or laboratory studies, and few studies have looked at crying in discourse. This article reports on a study of life stories of foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) in Hong Kong. The stories, which were recorded in a church shelter, are trauma narratives characterised by repeated crying. The article provides first, an overview of the themes that led the women to cry in the 89 crying events that were identified, and second, a discourse analysis of six selected excerpts. The analyses suggest that crying events should be seen as discursive accomplishments among group members. The article also provides evidence of a link between crying and catharsis, and it questions the common assumption that crying is a desirable form of emotional expression. Finally, the article discusses some possible functions of crying and proposes the first step towards a social psychological theory of crying in discourse.
Modeling Public Decision Preferences Using Context-Specific Value Hierarchies
Authors: Witesman Eva M. , Walters Lawrence C.
Published: June 2014

Although a universal hierarchy of public values has proven elusive, the literature in individual-level values suggests that decision makers do organize their personal values into hierarchies based on context. Through analysis of public values and public decision preferences gathered in a pilot study of city-level public administrators ( n = 182), we use an empirical approach to identify context-relevant public values for five different decision contexts. We then demonstrate multiple possible approaches to modeling individual- and community-level policy preferences based on value hierarchies derived from the individual-level data. We find that the predictions based on value hierarchies are better than would be predicted in the absence of such hierarchies, and that these differences are statistically significant. These findings suggest that while creating a universal hierarchy of values remains challenging, context-relevant public value hierarchies at smaller units of analysis may be useful in describing, predicting, and explaining the decisions of public administrators.
Long-term T2 and Qualitative MRI Morphology After First-Generation Knee Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation
Authors: Salzmann Gian M. , Erdle Benjamin , Porichis Stella , Uhl Markus , Ghanem Nadir , Schmal Hagen , Kubosch David , Südkamp Norbert P. , Niemeyer Philipp
Published: June 2014

Background:

There are several reports on long-term clinical outcomes after autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for knee cartilage defect treatment. Few published articles have evaluated defect quality using quantitative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging techniques.

Purpose:

To evaluate clinical outcomes and the quality of repair tissue (RT) after first-generation periosteum-covered ACI (ACI-P) using qualitative MR outcomes and T2-weighted relaxation times.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

All patients (n = 86) who underwent knee joint ACI-P (from 1997 through 2001) with a postoperative follow-up of at least 10 years were invited for clinical and MR evaluation. Clinical outcomes analysis included pre- and postoperative Lysholm and numeric analog scale (NAS) for pain (10 = worst, 0 = best). Radiographic analysis included postoperative T2-weighted mapping of the RT, RT-associated regions, and healthy control cartilage; MOCART (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue) score; a modified Knee Osteoarthritis Scoring System (mKOSS; 0 = best, 15 = worst) score; as well as numeric grading for subjective RT and whole knee joint evaluation (1 = best, 6 = worst).

Results:

A total of 70 patients (45 male, 25 female; mean age, 33.3 ± 10.2 years; 81% follow-up rate) with 82 defects were available for follow-up at an average 10.9 ± 1.1 years postoperatively, with MR analysis for 59 patients with 71 transplant sites (average defect size, 6.5 ± 4.0 cm2). Final Lysholm (71.0 ± 17.4) and NAS (7.2 ± 1.9) scores improved significantly when compared with preoperative scores (Lysholm: 42.0 ± 22.5; NAS: 2.1 ± 2.1; P < .01 for both). Average transplant T2 was 35.2 ± 11.3 ms and thereby significantly lower ( P = .005) when compared to the intraknee healthy femur T2 (39.7 ± 6.8 ms). The MOCART was 44.9 ± 23.6 and mKOSS was 4.8 ± 3.2. RT subjective grading was 3.3 ± 1.4, while it was 2.3 ± 0.7 for whole joint evaluation. The RT T2 significantly correlated with postoperative NAS ( P = .04; r = −0.28); it also correlated with the healthy femur T2 ( P = .004; r = 0.4). The MOCART significantly correlated with the mKOSS ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

The MRI outcome is imperfect in this collective of patients. There is only weak correlation of quantitative imaging data and clinical function. Qualitative imaging data are much better correlated to functional outcomes.
Multiple-time scale smooth second order sliding mode controller design for flexible hypersonic vehicles
Authors: Tian Bailing , Su Rui , Fan Wenru
Published: June 2014

A nonlinear robust control strategy is proposed for flexible hypersonic vehicles with aerodynamic parameters uncertainties. Firstly, the longitude dynamics of this vehicle are divided into velocity subsystem, altitude and flight path angle subsystem, angle of attack, and pitch rate subsystem. Then the smooth second order sliding mode controller and disturbance observer are designed to ensure the finite time stability for each subsystem. Furthermore, the stability of the whole system is guaranteed via the assumption of multiple-time scale characteristic. Moreover, the effect of flexible modes on rigid-body states can be estimated exactly using the disturbance observer. In addition, two representative simulations are carried out to analyze the effect of elevator deflection and canard on the dynamics of velocity, flight path angle, and angle of attack. Finally, the Monte Carlo simulations are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Results of a Culturally Adapted Internet-Enhanced Physical Activity Pilot Intervention for Overweight and Obese Young Adult African American Women
Authors: Joseph Rodney P. , Pekmezi Dori , Dutton Gareth R. , Cherrington Andrea L. , Kim Young-Il , Allison Jeroan J. , Durant Nefertiti H.
Published: June 2014

Purpose: This study evaluated a culturally relevant, social cognitive theory–based, Internet-enhanced physical activity (PA) pilot intervention developed for overweight/obese African American (AA) female college students. Design: Using a 3-month, single group, pretest–posttest design, participants accessed a culturally relevant PA promotion website and engaged in four moderate-intensity PA sessions each week. Results: Study completers ( n = 25, mean age = 21.9 years) reported a decrease in sedentary screen time ( p < .0001); however, no changes in moderate-to-vigorous PA were reported ( p = .150). A significant increase in self-regulation for PA ( p < .0001) and marginally significant increases in social support ( p = .052) and outcome expectations ( p = .057) for PA were observed. No changes in body mass index ( p = .162), PA enjoyment ( p = .151), or exercise self-efficacy ( p = .086) were reported. Conclusions: Findings of this exploratory study show some preliminary support for Internet-enhanced approaches to promote PA among overweight/obese AA women. Implications for Practice: Future studies with larger samples are needed to further explore culturally relevant Internet-enhanced PA programs in this underserved population.
Successful Communicative Focus Groups With Teenagers and Young People
Authors: Rosell Lourdes Rué , Martínez Isabel , Flecha Ainhoa , Álvarez Pilar
Published: June 2014

The concept of the mirage of upward mobility, identified as one of the causes of gender violence, has been analyzed in depth through different communicative fieldwork techniques that were designed dialogically. The development of each of these techniques has been crucial to identifying the roots of the phenomenon. This article addresses the implementation of communicative focus groups comprising adolescent girls and young people (aged 14-18 and 18-25) by highlighting different parts of the research process: (a) how the groups were configured and how the participants were selected, (b) the identification of preexisting barriers to discussing the issue and the different possible reactions, (c) how evidence from the scientific community was introduced to the groups, and (d) how the barriers to identifying the mirage of upward mobility can be overcome through dialogue within the focus groups.
Vital memories: Movements in and between affect, ethics and self
Authors: Brown Steven D , Reavey Paula
Published: June 2014

The focus on the practice of remembering has been highly productive for memory studies, but it creates difficulties in understanding personal commitment to particular versions of the past. Autobiographical memories of difficult and distressing past episodes – or ‘vital memories’ – require extensive and ongoing management. We describe the issues that arise when vital memories are expressed across a range of specific interactional contexts. Seven themes – autobiography, agency, forgetting, ethics, affect, space and institutional practices – are discussed. Each theme draws out a particular facet of the relationship between the content and contexts of vital memories and demonstrates that while vital memories frame problematic experiences, they remain essential for those who express them.
A future-proof past: Designing for remembering experiences
Authors: van den Hoven Elise
Published: June 2014

Personal remembering can be heavily influenced by the context in which it takes place, which includes external factors such as people, locations and things. These things can be physical, digital or a combination of both, such as digital photographs displayed on a physical screen. Together, these media and media carriers can act as memory cues, which in turn can be purposely created for the support of remembering experiences. The aim of this article is to show the challenges, potential and opportunities of this multidisciplinary research area, Materialising Memories, which creates interactive designs to be used in context. This will be illustrated through the presentation of two design case studies supporting photo sharing in everyday life: Cueb and 4Photos.
UK single centre experience of rare and atypical variant of castrate-resistant prostate cancer: Poorly differentiated neuroendocrine small-cell carcinoma
Authors: Hingorani Mohan , Morgan Russell , Robertson Andrew , Khafagy Richard , Hawkyard Simon
Published: June 2014

Background:

We report on the emergence of a rare and atypical variant of castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) that is characterised by transformation into poorly differentiated neuroendocrine small-cell carcinoma (NSCC). The existence of this variant was previously described in isolated case reports and small case-studies, but as yet there has been no UK series reported in the literature.

Methods:

Between January 2010 and January 2014, eight cases were presented in our local multi-disciplinary team meeting having a diagnosis of NSCC arising on a background of prostate cancer treated with androgen deprivation therapy. We performed a retrospective review of the clinical records of these patients, to identify the mode of presentation, diagnostic investigations, pathological characteristics, and subsequent treatment and survival outcomes.

Results:

The median patient age was 77 years (range, 68 – 84), with a median time interval of 25 months (range, 7 – 83) between the original diagnosis and subsequent transformation to NSCC. The median prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was 4 ng/ml, at presentation. Most patients presented with local progression, combined with high-volume and atypical sites of metastasis (e.g. brain, pancreas and penis). Patients developed a good initial response to platinum-based chemotherapy, but responses were short-lived and prognosis poor, with a median overall survival (OS) of 8 months.

Conclusion:

Prostate NSCC represents an atypical variant of CRPC with significant therapeutic and prognostic implications. Based on our observations, we have proposed a clinical algorithm for early diagnosis and appropriate management of these patients.
Inter-rater agreement, sensitivity, and specificity of the prone hip extension test and active straight leg raise test
Authors: Bruno Paul A , Millar David P , Goertzen Dale A
Published: June 2014

Background

Two clinical tests used to assess for neuromuscular control deficits in low back pain (LBP) patients are the prone hip extension (PHE) test and active straight leg raise (ASLR) test. For these tests, it has been suggested examiners classify patients as “positive” or “negative” based on the presence or absence (respectively) of specific “abnormal” lumbopelvic motion patterns. The inter-rater agreement of such a classification scheme has been reported for the PHE test, but not for the ASLR test. In addition, the sensitivity and specificity of such classification schemes have not been reported for either test. The primary objectives of the current study were to investigate: 1) the inter-rater agreement of the examiner-reported classification schemes for these two tests, and 2) the sensitivity and specificity of the classification schemes.

Methods

Thirty participants with LBP and 40 asymptomatic controls took part in this cross-sectional observational study. Participants performed 3–4 repetitions of each test whilst two examiners classified them as “positive” or “negative” based on the presence or absence (respectively) of specific “abnormal” lumbopelvic motion patterns. The inter-rater agreement (Kappa statistic), sensitivity (LBP patients), and specificity (controls) were calculated for each test.

Results

Both tests demonstrated substantial inter-rater agreement (PHE test: Kappa = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.57-0.95, p < 0.001; ASLR test: Kappa = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.57-0.96, p < 0.001). For the PHE test, the sensitivity was 0.18-0.27 and the specificity was 0.63-0.78; the odds ratio (OR) of “positive” classifications in the LBP group was 1.25 (95% CI = 0.58-2.72; Examiner 1) and 1.27 (95% CI = 0.52-3.12; Examiner 2). For the ASLR test, the sensitivity was 0.20-0.25 and the specificity was 0.84-0.86; the OR of “positive” classifications in the LBP group was 1.72 (95% CI = 0.75-3.95; Examiner 1) and 1.57 (95% CI = 0.64-3.85; Examiner 2).

Conclusion

Classification schemes for the PHE test and ASLR test based on the presence or absence of specific “abnormal” lumbopelvic motion patterns demonstrated substantial inter-rater agreement. However, additional investigation is required to further comment on the clinical usefulness of the motion patterns demonstrated by LBP patients during these tests as a diagnostic tool or treatment outcome.
Estimation of Total Glomerular Number Using an Integrated Disector Method in Embryonic and Postnatal Kidneys
Authors: Arsenault Michel G , Miao Yuan , Jones Kathleen , Sims David , Spears Jonathan , Wright Glenda M , Hartwig Sunny
Published: June 2014

Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT) are a polymorphic group of clinical disorders comprising the major cause of renal failure in children. Included within CAKUT is a wide spectrum of developmental malformations ranging from renal agenesis, renal hypoplasia and renal dysplasia (maldifferentiation of renal tissue), each characterized by varying deficits in nephron number. First presented in the Brenner Hypothesis, low congenital nephron endowment is becoming recognized as an antecedent cause of adult-onset hypertension, a leading cause of coronary heart disease, stroke, and renal failure in North America. Genetic mouse models of impaired nephrogenesis and nephron endowment provide a critical framework for understanding the origins of human kidney disease. Current methods to quantitate nephron number include (i) acid maceration (ii) estimation of nephron number from a small number of tissue sections (iii) imaging modalities such as MRI and (iv) the gold standard physical disector/fractionator method. Despite its accuracy, the physical disector/fractionator method is rarely employed because it is labour-intensive, time-consuming and costly to perform. Consequently, less rigourous methods of nephron estimation are routinely employed by many laboratories. Here we present an updated, digitized version of the physical disector/fractionator method using free open source Fiji software, which we have termed the integrated disector method. This updated version of the gold standard modality accurately, rapidly and cost-effectively quantitates nephron number in embryonic and post-natal mouse kidneys, and can be easily adapted for stereological measurements in other organ systems.
Veno-venous extracorporeal CO2 removal for the treatment of severe respiratory acidosis: pathophysiological and technical considerations
Authors: Karagiannidis Christian , Kampe Kristin Aufm , Sipmann Fernando Suarez , Larsson Anders , Hedenstierna Goran , Windisch Wolfram , Mueller Thomas
Published: June 2014

Introduction

While non-invasive ventilation aimed at avoiding intubation has become the modality of choice to treat mild to moderate acute respiratory acidosis, many severely acidotic patients (pH <7.20) still need intubation. Extracorporeal veno-venous CO2 removal (ECCO2R) could prove to be an alternative. The present animal study tested in a systematic fashion technical requirements for successful ECCO2R in terms of cannula size, blood and sweep gas flow.

Methods

ECCO2R with a 0.98 m2 surface oxygenator was performed in six acidotic (pH <7.20) pigs using either a 14.5 French (Fr) or a 19Fr catheter, with sweep gas flow rates of 8 and 16 L/minute, respectively. During each experiment the blood flow was incrementally increased to a maximum of 400 mL/minute (14.5Fr catheter) and 1000 mL/minute (19Fr catheter).

Results

Amelioration of severe respiratory acidosis was only feasible when blood flow rates of 750 to 1000 mL/minute (19Fr catheter) were used. Maximal CO2-elimination was 146.1 ± 22.6 mL/minute, while pH increased from 7.13 ± 0.08 to 7.41 ± 0.07 (blood flow of 1000 mL/minute; sweep gas flow 16 L/minute). Accordingly, a sweep gas flow of 8 L/minute resulted in a maximal CO2-elimination rate of 138.0 ± 16.9 mL/minute. The 14.5Fr catheter allowed a maximum CO2 elimination rate of 77.9 mL/minute, which did not result in the normalization of pH.

Conclusions

Veno-venous ECCO2R may serve as a treatment option for severe respiratory acidosis. In this porcine model, ECCO2R was most effective when using blood flow rates ranging between 750 and 1000 mL/minute, while an increase in sweep gas flow from 8 to 16 L/minute had less impact on ECCO2R in this setting.
The Disposition Index Does Not Reflect β-Cell Function in IGT Subjects Treated With Pioglitazone
Authors: DeFronzo Ralph A. , Tripathy Devjit , Abdul-Ghani Muhammad , Musi Nicolas , Gastaldelli Amalia
Published: June 2014

Aims and Hypothesis:

The insulin secretion/insulin resistance (IR) (disposition) index (ΔI/ΔG ÷ IR, where Δ is change from baseline, I is insulin, and G is glucose) is commonly used as a measure of β-cell function. This relationship is curvilinear and becomes linear when log transformed. ΔI is determined by 2 variables: insulin secretion rate (ISR) and metabolic clearance of insulin. We postulated that the characteristic curvilinear relationship would be lost if Δ plasma C-peptide (ΔCP) (instead of Δ plasma insulin) was plotted against insulin sensitivity.

Methods:

A total of 441 individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) from ACT NOW received an oral glucose tolerance test and were randomized to pioglitazone or placebo for 2.4 years.

Results:

Pioglitazone reduced IGT conversion to diabetes by 72% (P < .0001). ΔI/ΔG vs the Matsuda index of insulin sensitivity showed the characteristic curvilinear relationship. However, when ΔCP/ΔG or ΔISR/ΔG was plotted against the Matsuda index, the curvilinear relationship was completely lost. This discordance was explained by 2 distinct physiologic effects that altered plasma insulin response in opposite directions: 1) increased ISR and 2) augmented metabolic clearance of insulin. The net result was a decline in the plasma insulin response to hyperglycemia during the oral glucose tolerance test. These findings demonstrate a physiologic control mechanism wherein the increase in ISR ensures adequate insulin delivery into the portal circulation to suppress hepatic glucose production while delivering a reduced but sufficient amount of insulin to peripheral tissues to maintain the pioglitazone-mediated improvement in insulin sensitivity without excessive hyperinsulinemia.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate the validity of the disposition index when relating the plasma insulin response to insulin sensitivity but underscore the pitfall of this index when drawing conclusions about β-cell function, because insulin secretion declined despite an increase in the plasma insulin response.
Early elevated serum gamma glutamyl transpeptidase after liver transplantation is associated with better survival
Authors: Alkozai Edris M , Lisman Ton , Porte Robert J , Nijsten Maarten W
Published: June 2014

Background: Gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is a membrane bound enzyme that plays a key role in the synthesis of the antioxidant glutathione. Epidemiological studies have linked high GGT with an increased risk of morbidity and cardiovascular mortality. In contrast, GGT is usually elevated in liver transplant recipients that experience good outcomes.

Aims: To study if and how GGT is correlated with mortality following liver transplantation.

Methods: We analyzed the prognostic relevance of serum GGT levels during the early and late postoperative period after liver transplantation in 522 consecutive adults. We also studied alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin levels.

Results: Early after transplantation, the peak median (interquartile range) GGT levels were significantly higher in patients who survived more than 90 days compared to non-survivors: 293 (178-464) vs. 172 (84-239) U/l, p<0.0001. In contrast, late after transplantation, GGT levels were significantly lower in patients who survived more than 5 years than those who did not (p<0.01). The pattern of GGT levels also differed from those of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin early after transplantation, while these patterns were congruent late after transplantation. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that early after transplantation the higher the GGT levels, the better the 90-day survival (p<0.001). In contrast, late after transplantation, higher GGT levels were associated with a lower 5-year survival (p<0.001).

Conclusions:  These paradoxical findings may be explained by the time-dependent role of GGT in glutathione metabolism. Immediate postoperative elevation of GGT may indicate a physiological systemic response while chronic elevation reflects a pathological response.
First regional evaluation of nuclear genetic diversity and population structure in northeastern coyotes (Canis latrans)
Authors: Monzón Javier
Published: June 2014

Previous genetic studies of eastern coyotes (Canis latrans) are based on one of two strategies: sampling many individuals using one or very few molecular markers, or sampling very few individuals using many genomic markers. Thus, a regional analysis of genetic diversity and population structure in eastern coyotes using many samples and several molecular markers is lacking. I evaluated genetic diversity and population structure in 385 northeastern coyotes using 16 common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A region-wide analysis of population structure revealed three primary genetic populations, but these do not correspond to the same three subdivisions inferred in a previous analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences. More focused geographic analyses of population structure indicated that ample genetic structure occurs in coyotes from an intermediate contact zone where two range expansion fronts meet. These results demonstrate that genotyping several highly heterozygous SNPs in a large, geographically dense sample is an effective way to detect cryptic population genetic structure. The importance of SNPs in studies of population and wildlife genomics is rapidly increasing; this study adds to the growing body of recent literature that demonstrates the utility of SNPs ascertained from a model organism for evolutionary inference in closely related species.
Working memory training shows immediate and long-term effects on cognitive performance in children and adolescents
Authors: Pugin Fiona , Metz Andreas J. , Stauffer Madlaina , Wolf Martin , Jenni Oskar G. , Huber Reto
Published: June 2014

Working memory is important for mental reasoning and learning processes. Several studies in adults and school-age children have shown performance improvement in cognitive tests after working memory training. Our aim was to examine not only immediate but also long-term effects of intensive working memory training on cognitive performance tests in children and adolescents. Fourteen healthy male subjects between 10 and 16 years trained a visuospatial n-back task over 3 weeks (30 min daily), while 15 individuals of the same age range served as a passive control group. Significant differences in immediate (after 3 weeks of training) and long-term effects (after 2-6 months) in an auditory n-back task were observed compared to controls (2.5 fold immediate and 4.7 fold long-term increase in the training group compared to the controls). The improvement was more pronounced in subjects who improved their performance during the training. Other cognitive functions (matrices test and Stroop task) did not change when comparing the training group to the control group. We conclude that spatial working memory training in children and adolescents boosts performance in similar memory tasks such as the auditory n-back task. The sustained performance improvement several months after the training supports the effectiveness of the training.
Role of bacteriophages in STEC infections: new implications for the design of prophylactic and treatment approaches
Authors: Amorim Jaime H. , Jesus Monica R. , Luiz Wilson B. , Porchia Bruna F.M.M. , Ferreira Rita C.C. , Servat Esteban G. , Ghiringhelli Pablo D. , Ferreira Luis C.S , Bentancor Leticia V.
Published: June 2014

Shiga toxin (Stx) is considered the main virulence factor in Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infections. Previously we reported the expression of biologically active Stx by eukaryotic cells in vitro and in vivo following transfection with plasmids encoding Stx under control of the native bacterial promoter. Since stx genes are present in the genome of lysogenic bacteriophages, here we evaluated the relevance of bacteriophages during STEC infection. We used the non-pathogenic E. coli K12 strain carrying a lysogenic 933W mutant bacteriophage in which the stx operon was replaced by a gene encoding the green fluorescent protein (GFP). Tracking GFP expression using an In Vivo Imaging System (IVIS), we detected fluorescence in liver, kidney, and intestine of mice infected with the recombinant E. coli strain after treatment with ciprofloxacin, which induces the lytic replication and release of bacteriophages.

In addition, we showed that chitosan, a linear polysaccharide composed of D-glucosamine residues and with a number of commercial and biomedical uses, had strong anti-bacteriophage effects, as demonstrated in vitro and in vivo. These findings bring promising perspectives for the prevention and treatment of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) cases.
Dynamin1 concentration in the prefrontal cortex is associated with cognitive impairment in Lewy body dementia
Authors: Vallortigara Julie , Rangarajan Sindhoo , Whitfield David , Alghamdi Amani , Howlett David , Hortobágyi Tibor , Johnson Mary , Attems Johannes , Ballard Clive , Thomas Alan , O’Brien John , Aarsland Dag , Francis Paul
Published: June 2014

Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) and Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD) together, represent the second most common cause of dementia, after Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The synaptic dysfunctions underlying the cognitive decline and psychiatric symptoms observed throughout the development of PDD and DLB are still under investigation. In this study we examined the expression level of Dynamin1 and phospho-CaMKII, key proteins of endocytosis and synaptic plasticity respectively, as potential markers of molecular processes specifically deregulated with DLB and/or PDD. In order to measure the levels of these proteins, we isolated grey matter from post-mortem prefrontal cortex area (BA9), anterior cingulated gyrus (BA24) and parietal cortex (BA40) from DLB and PDD patients in comparison to age-matched controls and a group of AD cases. Clinical and pathological data available included the MMSE score, neuropsychiatric history, and semi-quantitative scores for AD pathology (plaques - tangles) and for α-synuclein (Lewy bodies).

Changes in the expression of the synaptic markers, and correlates with neuropathological features and cognitive decline were predominantly found in the prefrontal cortex. On one hand, levels of Dynamin1 were significantly reduced, and correlated with a higher rate of cognitive decline observed in cases from three dementia groups. On the other hand, the fraction of phospho-CaMKII was decreased, and correlated with a high score of plaques and tangles in BA9. Interestingly, the correlation between the rate of cognitive decline and the level of Dynamin1 remained when the analysis was restricted to the PDD and DLB cases, highlighting an association of Dynamin1 with cognitive decline in people with Lewy Body dementia.
On genomics, kin, and privacy
Authors: Telenti Amalio , Ayday Erman , Hubaux Jean Pierre
Published: June 2014

The storage of greater numbers of exomes or genomes raises the question of loss of privacy for the individual and for families if genomic data are not properly protected. Access to genome data may result from a personal decision to disclose, or from gaps in protection. In either case, revealing genome data has consequences beyond the individual, as it compromises the privacy of family members. Increasing availability of genome data linked or linkable to metadata through online social networks and services adds one additional layer of complexity to the protection of genome privacy.  The field of computer science and information technology offers solutions to secure genomic data so that individuals, medical personnel or researchers can access only the subset of genomic information required for healthcare or dedicated studies.
Trace amines inhibit insect odorant receptor function through antagonism of the co-receptor subunit
Authors: Chen Sisi , Luetje Charles W.
Published: June 2014

Many insect behaviors are driven by olfaction, making insect olfactory receptors (ORs) appealing targets for insect control.  Insect ORs are odorant-gated ion channels, with each receptor thought to be composed of a representative from a large, variable family of odorant binding subunits and a highly conserved co-receptor subunit (Orco), assembled in an unknown stoichiometry.  Synthetic Orco directed agonists and antagonists have recently been identified.  Several Orco antagonists have been shown to act via an allosteric mechanism to inhibit OR activation by odorants.  The high degree of conservation of Orco across insect species results in Orco antagonists having broad activity at ORs from a variety of insect species and suggests that the binding site for Orco ligands may serve as a modulatory site for compounds endogenous to insects or may be a target of exogenous compounds, such as those produced by plants.  To test this idea, we screened a series of biogenic and trace amines, identifying several as Orco antagonists.  Of particular interest were tryptamine, a plant-produced amine, and tyramine, an amine endogenous to the insect nervous system.  Tryptamine was found to be a potent antagonist of Orco, able to block Orco activation by an Orco agonist and to allosterically inhibit activation of ORs by odorants.  Tyramine had effects similar to those of tryptamine, but was less potent.  Importantly, both tryptamine and tyramine displayed broad activity, inhibiting odorant activation of ORs of species from three different insect orders (Diptera, Lepidoptera and Coleoptera), as well as odorant activation of six diverse ORs from a single species (the human malaria vector mosquito, Anopheles gambiae).  Our results suggest that endogenous and exogenous natural compounds serve as Orco ligands modulating insect olfaction and that Orco can be an important target for the development of novel insect repellants.
Recent trends in airway management: we are not ready to give up fiberoptic endoscopy
Authors: Cattano Davide , Chaudhry Rabail , Callender Rashida , Killoran Peter V , Hagberg Carin A
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this correspondence is to discuss recent findings related to current trends in airway management and to discuss the utilization rates of video laryngoscopes versus traditional techniques in USA, UK, and Canada. To highlight the increased use of video laryngoscopes in difficult airway situations, data on the use of alternative airway devices at our institution collected from 2008 to 2010 are presented alongside the results of previously published surveys collected from 2002 to 2013.
The reproductive season of scleractinian corals in Socotra, Yemen
Authors: Baird Andrew H. , Abrego David , Howells Emily J. , Cumbo Vivian R.
Published: June 2014

Determining when corals reproduce has clear management and economic implications. Here we document the reproductive condition of corals in the genus Acropora on the island of Socotra in Yemen during February 2014. Twenty percent of colonies (n = 143) contained mature gametes and 28% had immature gametes indicating that spawning will occur in both February and March in 2014, confirming previous anecdotal reports of coral spawning at this time in Socotra. Acropora typically reproduce in synchrony with many other broadcast spawning scleractinian corals, and we therefore predict that many other species are reproductively active at this time of year.
Neurosharing: large-scale data sets (spike, LFP) recorded from the hippocampal-entorhinal system in behaving rats
Authors: Mizuseki Kenji , Diba Kamran , Pastalkova Eva , Teeters Jeff , Sirota Anton , Buzsáki György
Published: June 2014

Using silicon-based recording electrodes, we recorded neuronal activity of the dorsal hippocampus and dorsomedial entorhinal cortex from behaving rats. The entorhinal neurons were classified as principal neurons and interneurons based on monosynaptic interactions and wave-shapes. The hippocampal neurons were classified as principal neurons and interneurons based on monosynaptic interactions, wave-shapes and burstiness. The data set contains recordings from 7,736 neurons (6,100 classified as principal neurons, 1,132 as interneurons, and 504 cells that did not clearly fit into either category) obtained during 442 recording sessions from 11 rats (a total of 204.5 hours) while they were engaged in one of eight different behaviours/tasks. Both original and processed data (time stamp of spikes, spike waveforms, result of spike sorting and local field potential) are included, along with metadata of behavioural markers. Community-driven data sharing may offer cross-validation of findings, refinement of interpretations and facilitate discoveries.
Colonoscopic polyp detection rate is stable throughout the workday including evening colonoscopy sessions
Authors: Thurtle David , Pullinger Michael , Tsigarides Jordan , McIntosh Iris , Steytler Carla , Beales Ian
Published: June 2014

Objective: Polyp detection rate (PDR) is an accepted measure of colonoscopy quality. Several factors may influence PDR including time of procedure and order of colonoscopy within a session. Our unit provides evening colonoscopy lists (6-9 pm). We examined whether colonoscopy performance declines in the evening.

Design: Data for all National Health Service (NHS) outpatient colonoscopies performed at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital in 2011 were examined. Timing, demographics, indication and colonoscopy findings were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using multivariate regression.

Results: Data from 2576 colonoscopies were included: 1163 (45.1%) in the morning, 1123 (43.6%) in the afternoon and 290 (11.3%) in the evening.  Overall PDR was 40.80%. Males, increasing age and successful caecal intubation were all significantly associated with higher polyp detection. The indications ‘faecal occult blood screening’ (p<0.001) and ‘polyp surveillance’ (p<0.001) were strongly positively associated and ‘anaemia’ (p=0.01) was negatively associated with PDR. Following adjustment for  covariates, there was no significant difference in PDR between sessions. With the morning as the reference value, the odds ratio for polyp detection in the afternoon and evening were 0.93 (95% CI = 0.72-1.18) and 1.15 (95%CI = 0.82-1.61) respectively. PDR was not affected by rank of colonoscopy within a list, sedation dose or trainee-involvement.

Conclusions: Time of day did not affect polyp detection rate in clinical practice. Evening colonoscopy had equivalent efficacy and is an effective tool in meeting increasing demands for endoscopy. Standardisation was shown to have a considerable effect as demographics, indication and endoscopist varied substantially between sessions. Evening sessions were popular with a younger population