bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of minimum F‐wave latencies compared with F‐estimates and absolute reference values in S1 radiculopathies: Are they still needed?
Authors: Mauricio Elizabeth A. , Dimberg Elliot L. , Rubin Devon I.
Published: August 2013

Introduction: The utility of F‐waves in assessing radiculopathies is debated. The aim of this study is to determine the frequency of abnormal minimum tibial F‐wave latencies compared to an F‐estimate and an absolute reference value in patients with electromyography (EMG) confirmed S1 radiculopathies. Methods: A retrospective review of F‐waves in patients with an EMG‐confirmed isolated S1 radiculopathy was performed. The minimum and mean latencies of 8 tibial F‐waves were compared with the calculated F‐estimate and to an absolute reference value, and the frequencies of abnormal responses were determined. Results: Of the 50 patients with an S1 radiculopathy, 4% had prolongation of the minimum reproducible F‐wave latency, and 8% had prolongation of the mean latency relative to the calculated F‐estimate. Conclusions: The minimum and mean F‐wave latencies are infrequently abnormal when compared with an estimated F‐wave latency in S1 radiculopathies and are insensitive in the assessment of S1 nerve root injury. Muscle Nerve 49: 809–813, 2014
Acute kidney injury in statin initiators
Authors: Layton J. Bradley , Brookhart M. Alan , Jonsson Funk Michele , Simpson Ross J. , Pate Virginia , Stürmer Til , Kshirsagar Abhijit V.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Statins are widely used for preventing cardiovascular disease, yet recent reports suggest an increased risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). We estimated the one‐year risk of AKI associated with statin initiation and determined the comparative safety of individual statin formulations.

Methods

We performed a cohort study in insurance billing data from commercial and Medicare insurance plans in the United States for the years 2000–2010. We identified statin initiators and non‐users with histories of medication use and healthcare utilization. AKI diagnosis codes were identified in the one year following the index date. We estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with adjusted and propensity score (PS)‐matched Cox‐proportional hazards models. Models were run separately in insurance groups and adjusted for cardiovascular and renal risk factors, markers of healthcare utilization, and other medication use.

Results

We identified 3,905,155 statin initiators and 2,817,621 eligible non‐users. The adjusted HR of AKI in statin initiators compared to non‐users was: commercial, HR = 1.04 (95% CI: 0.99, 1.09); Medicare, HR = 0.72 (95% CI: 0.70, 0.75). PS‐matching yielded: commercial, HR = 0.82 (95% CI: 0.78, 0.87); Medicare, HR = 0.66 (95% CI: 0.63, 0.69). As individual formulations, higher‐potency simvastatin was associated with an increased risk of AKI over lower‐potency simvastatin in adjusted models: commercial, HR = 1.42 (95% CI: 1.28, 1.58); Medicare, HR = 1.24 (95% CI: 1.15, 1.35).

Conclusions

As a class, statin initiation was not associated with an increase in AKI. However, higher‐potency simvastatin did exhibit an increased AKI risk. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sox Transcription Factors Require Selective Interactions with Oct4 and Specific Transactivation Functions to Mediate Reprogramming
Authors: Aksoy Irene , Jauch Ralf , Eras Volker , Chng Wen-bin Alfred , Chen Jiaxuan , Divakar Ushashree , Ng Calista Keow Leng , Kolatkar Prasanna R. , Stanton Lawrence W.
Published: August 2013

The unique ability of Sox2 to cooperate with Oct4 at selective binding sites in the genome is critical for reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). We have recently demonstrated that Sox17 can be converted into a reprogramming factor by alteration of a single amino acid (Sox17EK) within its DNA binding HMG domain. Here we expanded this study by introducing analogous mutations to 10 other Sox proteins and interrogated the role of N-and C-termini on the reprogramming efficiency. We found that point-mutated Sox7 and Sox17 can convert human and mouse fibroblasts into iPSCs, but Sox4, Sox5, Sox6, Sox8, Sox9, Sox11, Sox12, Sox13, and Sox18 cannot. Next we studied regions outside the HMG domain and found that the C-terminal transactivation domain of Sox17 and Sox7 enhances the potency of Sox2 in iPSC assays and confers weak reprogramming potential to the otherwise inactive Sox4EK and Sox18EK proteins. These results suggest that the glutamate (E) to lysine (K) mutation in the HMG domain is necessary but insufficient to swap the function of Sox factors. Moreover, the HMG domain alone fused to the VP16 transactivation domain is able to induce reprogramming, albeit at low efficiency. By molecular dissection of the C-terminus of Sox17, we found that the β-catenin interaction region contributes to the enhanced reprogramming efficiency of Sox17EK. To mechanistically understand the enhanced reprogramming potential of Sox17EK, we analyzed ChIP-sequencing and expression data and identified a subset of candidate genes specifically regulated by Sox17EK and not by Sox2. Stem Cells  2013;31:2632–2646
A Systems Approach for Evaluating the Effectiveness of Radiological and Nuclear Detection Architectures in Urban Areas
Authors: Chatterjee Samrat , Salazar Daniel E. , Maya Isaac
Published: August 2013

A key mission for the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) is to build state and local capabilities through radiological and nuclear (RN) detection, support equipment, and training systems. To support DNDO’s capabilities at local jurisdictional levels within the US interior, this study contributes to the state‐of‐the‐art by extending the systems engineering approach toward identifying challenges to the practical effectiveness of RN detection architectures protecting potential urban area RN target and source sites. The study outcomes point to the technological challenges that need to be addressed for a viable urban detection system. Characteristics of RN target and source sites are discussed, and a detection probability model for a system of detectors is presented. Different detection layouts are evaluated, and implementation impacts are estimated in terms of vehicular delays. The methodology is illustrated in a case study application for regions within the State of California.
Investigating the Impacts of an Experiential Service‐Learning Course
Authors: Kassabgy Nagwa , El‐Din Yasmine Salah
Published: August 2013

This study investigated the impacts of an undergraduate experiential service‐learning course on the development, attitudes, and perceptions of the co‐learners involved in the experience. The context of the study was the American University in Cairo (AUC), and the participants in both groups were Egyptian native speakers of Arabic. The participants in the first group (N = 74) were undergraduate students enrolled in LING268: Principles and Practice of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL). Participants in the second group (N = 19) were AUC workers (e.g., custodians, security guards, and housekeepers). The researchers used qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis to answer the research questions. Although the findings showed that the service‐learning experience had both positive and negative impacts on both groups, the study provides evidence that service‐learning is a valuable pedagogy that is worth implementing in English as a foreign language (EFL) contexts.
Learning English Internationally While Engaging Communities Locally: Online EFL Supporting Community Learning for Young Leaders
Authors: Bickel Beverly , Shin Joan Kang , Taylor Joby , Faust Heidi , Penniston Tom
Published: August 2013

The clichés it's a small world and the world is our classroom are becoming practical realities for many educators. Increasingly accessible transnational contexts for English language teaching and learning offer new opportunities for local–global learning. This article reflects on a content‐based online English course focused on community youth leadership that was offered for Brazilian teens by U.S. instructors and graduate students. The researchers used the backdrop of English learning focused on key concepts to engage students in critical self‐reflection, collaborative discussion with peers, and civic engagement with their home communities. This course focused on communication skills, content knowledge, and technology practices needed for young adults to engage each other as emerging global citizens. Students wrote reflections on identity, planned and reflected on community interviews, and designed community‐based service projects. The authors describe how students and instructors used a variety of formal and informal communication platforms to experiment with the language and communication strategies students needed to get beyond simple vocabulary practice and into meaningful discourse about contested concepts such as identity, community, social responsibility, social hope, leadership, and beliefs. The authors discuss how students creatively used English across multiple online platforms and geographic borders to reimagine and project themselves as agents of positive social change and emerging community leaders.
Engaged Teaching and Learning With Adult Karen Refugees in a Service‐Learning Site
Authors: Smolen Lynn Atkinson , Zhang Wei , Detwiler Stephen
Published: August 2013

This article describes a case study of a service‐learning project connected to a TESOL (teaching English to speakers of other languages) teacher preparation program. The case study explored the teacher candidates' experiences teaching English to Karen refugees from Myanmar (Burma) in a midwestern city in the United States. The teacher candidates' interviews and written reflections demonstrated that the service‐learning experiences contributed to their academic and personal development and enhanced their academic knowledge, civic responsibility, and personal growth. This study demonstrated that service learning is a powerful experience that can enrich a TESOL program by engaging teacher candidates and the community they serve in a mutually beneficial way.
Three Empowering Curricular Innovations for Service‐Learning in ESL Programs
Authors: Perren James , Grove Nuray , Thornton Julie
Published: August 2013

This article describes three service‐learning projects implemented in three different ESL programs in the United States. Each description includes typical course goals, service‐learning assignments, reflection activities, student learning outcomes, and pedagogical challenges. The first project was developing digital literacy through service‐learning projects in southeast Michigan. In this ESL program, two groups of ESL students created two types of written publications about their service and civic engagement learning experiences. The documents were subsequently posted to the Internet. The second project involved international students at the University of Richmond. Students completed weekly service‐learning by tutoring underserved children in a low‐income urban neighborhood in Virginia. The third project at the University of Denver involved observing how students' attitudes changed throughout the quarter during the process of learning about and serving the homeless community using a series of five written reflections. The three service‐learning projects presented in this article demonstrate how community engagement can promote a sense of empowerment in ESL students. This is accomplished by making them feel part of their community, allowing them to work cooperatively to develop authorial voice, increasing their audience awareness in writing, and fostering critical reflection that leads to a better understanding of social problems and civic responsibility.
Strategic Steps to Successful Service‐Learning in TESOL: From Critical to Practical
Authors: Perren James
Published: August 2013

The purpose of this article is to share pedagogical materials and activities which can help TESOL practitioners prepare service‐learning activities inside and outside the classroom. This study utilizes action research tools to improve academic service‐learning in TESOL as a holistic approach to problem solving rather than a single method for collecting and analyzing data. The article describes the experiences of planning, implementing, participating in, and evaluating a successful university intensive English course at a midwestern U.S. university. Qualitative research methods used included document collection and analysis, authentic instructional artifacts, and a survey to exemplify the experiences of students and community partners. Students expressed their preferences for service‐learning as both community building and personal growth opportunities with student reflection data. The results of this study suggest that the seven steps for service‐learning in the TESOL model may be the starting point for developing additional context‐specific service‐learning courses in TESOL depending on the nature and location of an English language program. Based on the findings of the present research, the author also argues that this study shows that there are certain identifiable boundaries and combinations of useful steps for an acceptable TESOL service‐learning project.
Simulating select families of multivariate discrete variates with positive correlations
Authors: Minhajuddin Abu T. , Juarez Sergio F.
Published: August 2013

Procedures for simulating multivariate discrete distributions are often needed for modeling real‐life situations. Several authors have provided algorithms to simulate data from such distributions, yet the need for algorithms that produce multivariate discrete correlated variates persists. Thus, we propose a simple algorithm to simulate values from several multivariate discrete distributions with positive correlations. The algorithm samples from the mixture distribution that arises from a suitable two‐level hierarchical structure. Our algorithm is computationally efficient, straightforward to implement, and produces values with any positive correlation in (0,1). We illustrate our proposal through two trivariate examples implemented in R.

This article is categorized under:

Algorithms and Computational Methods > Random Number Generation
Privacy‐preserving record linkage
Authors: Verykios Vassilios S. , Christen Peter
Published: August 2013

It has been recognized that sharing data between organizations can be of great benefit, since it can help discover novel and valuable information that is not available in individual databases. However, as organizations are under pressure to better utilize their large databases through sharing, integration, and analysis, protecting the privacy of personal information in such databases is an increasingly difficult task. Record linkage is the task of identifying and matching records that correspond to the same real‐world entity in several databases. This task implies a crucial infrastructure component in many modern information systems. Privacy and confidentiality concerns, however, commonly prevent the matching of databases that contain personal information across different organizations. In the past decade, efforts in the research area of privacy‐preserving record linkage (PPRL) have aimed to develop techniques that facilitate the matching of records across databases such that besides the matched records no private or confidential information is being revealed to any organisztion involved in such a linkage, or to any external party. We discuss the development of key techniques that solve the three main subproblems of PPRL, namely privacy, linkage quality, and scaling PPRL to large databases. We then highlight open challenges in this research area.

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Association Rules

Commercial, Legal, and Ethical Issues > Social Considerations

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Data Concepts

Technologies > Data Preprocessing
Can Experimental Electron‐Density Studies be Used as a Tool to Predict Biologically Relevant Properties of Low‐Molecular Weight Enzyme Ligands?
Authors: Grabowsky Simon , Jayatilaka Dylan , Fink Reinhold F. , Schirmeister Tanja , Engels Bernd
Published: August 2013

The case of protease inhibitor model compounds incorporating an aziridine or epoxide ring is used to exemplify how application of experimental electron‐density techniques can be used to explain the biological properties of low‐molecular weight enzyme ligands. This is furthermore seen in the light of a comparison of crystal and enzyme environments employing QM/MM computations to elucidate to which extent the properties in the crystal can be used to predict behavior in the biological surrounding.
Light stops, light staus and the 125 GeV Higgs
Authors: Carena Marcela , Gori Stefania , Shah Nausheen R. , Wagner Carlos E. M. , Wang Lian-Tao
Published: August 2013

Abstract

The ATLAS and CMS experiments have recently announced the discovery of a Higgs-like resonance with mass close to 125 GeV. Overall, the data is consistent with a Standard Model (SM)-like Higgs boson. Such a particle may arise in the minimal super-symmetric extension of the SM with average stop masses of the order of the TeV scale and a sizable stop mixing parameter. In this article we discuss properties of the SM-like Higgs production and decay rates induced by the possible presence of light staus and light stops. Light staus can affect the decay rate of the Higgs into di-photons and, in the case of sizable left-right mixing, induce an enhancement in this production channel up to ~ 50% of the Standard Model rate. Light stops may induce sizable modifications of the Higgs gluon fusion production rate and correlated modifications to the Higgs diphoton decay. Departures from SM values of the bottom-quark and tau-lepton couplings to the Higgs can be obtained due to Higgs mixing effects triggered by light third generation scalar superpartners. We describe the phenomenological implications of light staus on searches for light stops and non-standard Higgs bosons. Finally, we discuss the current status of the search for light staus produced in association with sneutrinos, in final states containing a W gauge boson and a pair of τ s.
Stringy membranes in AdS/CFT
Authors: Axenides Minos , Floratos Emmanuel , Linardopoulos Georgios
Published: August 2013

Abstract

We study membrane configurations in AdS7/4×S4/7. The membranes are wrapped around the compact manifoldS4/7and are dynamically equivalent to bosonic strings in AdS5. We thus conveniently identify them as “stringy membranes”. For the case of AdS7×S4, their construction is carried out by embedding the Polyakov action for classical bosonic strings in AdS5, into the corresponding membrane action. Therefore, every string configuration in AdS5can be realized by an appropriately chosen stringy membrane in AdS7×S4. We discuss the possibility of this being also the case for stringy membranes in AdS4×S7/$ {{\mathbb{Z}}^k} $(k≥ 1). By performing a stability analysis to the constructed solutions, we find that the (membrane) fluctuations along their transverse directions are organized in multiple Lamé stability bands and gaps in the space of parameters of the configurations. In this membrane picture, strings exhibit a single band/gap structure.
Repeat Hepatectomy for Recurrent Liver Metastasis From Gastric Carcinoma
Authors: Takemura Nobuyuki , Saiura Akio , Koga Rintaro , Yoshioka Ryuji , Yamamoto Junji , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: August 2013

Background

The efficacy of repeat hepatectomy for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma and colorectal liver metastases is widely accepted. However, the benefits of such treatment for intrahepatic recurrence of gastric cancer liver metastasis remain unknown. This study sought to clarify the survival benefit for patients undergoing repeat hepatectomy for gastric cancer liver metastasis.

Methods

A total of 73 patients underwent hepatectomy for gastric cancer liver metastasis from January 1993 to January 2011. Macroscopically curative surgery was performed in 64 patients. Among them, repeat hepatectomy was performed in 14 of the 37 patients with intrahepatic recurrence. Among these 14 patients, clinicopathologic factors were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis to identify the factors affecting survival.

Results

The overall 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rates after a second hepatectomy were 71, 47, and 47 %, respectively. The median survival was 31 months. Operative morbidity and mortality rates of repeat hepatectomy were 29 and 0 %, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified the duration of the disease‐free interval as the only independent significant factor predicting better survival.

Conclusions

In selected patients, repeat hepatectomy for recurrent gastric cancer liver metastasis may offer the same chance of cure as the primary hepatectomy. Disease‐free intervals exceeding 12 months predict good patient survival after repeat hepatectomy.
Primary Carnitine deficiency in the Faroe Islands: health and cardiac status in 76 adult patients diagnosed by screening
Authors: Rasmussen Jan , Køber Lars , Lund Allan M. , Nielsen Olav W.
Published: August 2013

Background

Carnitine deficiency can cause cardiomyopathy and cardiac arrhythmia. The prevalence in the Faroe Islands is the highest reported in the world (1:300). A nationwide screening program identified 76 Faroese adult patients (15–80 years) with Primary Carnitine Deficiency (PCD). We describe prior and current health status and symptoms in these patients, especially focusing on cardiac characteristics.

Methods

Upon identification, patients were immediately admitted for physical examination, ECG, blood tests and initiation of L‐carnitine supplementation. Medical records were reviewed and patients were interviewed. Echocardiography and blood tests were performed in 35 patients before and after L‐carnitine supplementation.

Results

All patients were either asymptomatic or had minor symptoms when diagnosed. Echocardiography including LVEF, global longitudinal strain and dimensions were normal apart from left ventricular hypertrophy with normal systolic function in one young male. Symptoms, e.g. fatigue, were reported in 43 % with a reduction to 12 % (p < 0.01) following initiation of L‐carnitine supplementation. Eighty two % reported participation in sports of which 52 % were on a competitive level. ECGs showed limited changes and blood tests were normal. Mean plasma free carnitine increased from 6.1 μmol/L to 15.1 μmol/L (p < 0.01) within 50 days of L‐carnitine supplementation.

Conclusion

PCD in adults can cause serious symptoms, but adult Faroese patients identified through a screening program were predominantly asymptomatic with a normal cardiac structure and function.
Integration of transcriptomics and metabonomics: improving diagnostics, biomarker identification and phenotyping in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Bjerrum Jacob Tveiten , Rantalainen Mattias , Wang Yulan , Olsen Jørgen , Nielsen Ole Haagen
Published: August 2013

A systems biology approach to multi-faceted diseases has provided an opportunity to establish a holistic understanding of the processes at play. Thus, the current study merges transcriptomics and metabonomics data in order to improve diagnostics, biomarker identification and to explore the possibilities of a molecular phenotyping of ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. Biopsies were obtained from the descending colon of 43 UC patients (22 active UC and 21 quiescent UC) and 15 controls. Genome-wide gene expression analyses were performed using Affymetrix GeneChip Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0. Metabolic profiles were generated using 1H Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (Bruker 600 MHz, Bruker BioSpin, Rheinstetten, Germany). Data were analyzed with the use of orthogonal-projection to latent structure-discriminant analysis and a multivariate logistic regression model fitted by lasso. Prediction performance was evaluated using nested Monte Carlo cross-validation. The prediction performance of the merged data sets and that of relative small (<20 variables) multivariate biomarker panels suggest that it is possible to discriminate between active UC, quiescent UC, and controls; between patients with or without steroid dependency, as well as between early or late disease onset. Consequently, this study demonstrates that the novel approach of integrating metabonomics and transcriptomics combines the better of the two worlds, and provides us with clinical applicable candidate biomarker panels. These combined panels improve diagnostics and more importantly also the molecular phenotyping in UC and provide insight into the pathophysiological processes at play, making optimized and personalized medication a possibility.
Characterization of Cationic Polyelectrolytes Adsorption to an Anionic Emulsion via Zeta‐Potential and Microcalorimetry
Authors: Li Dongcui , Schubert Beth , Wagner Norman J.
Published: August 2013

The adsorption of cationic polyelectrolytes (PEs) onto anionic silicone emulsion droplets, suspended in a sodium chloride solution is studied via electrophoretic mobility measurements and isothermal titration calorimetry. These model systems are studied to better understand the interactions governing PE adsorption‐induced emulsion flocculation, which is relevant to many industrial applications. Electrophoretic mobility measurements provide critical information for rationalizing the effect of the PE charge density on the loss of stability of silicone emulsions. The interaction strength is calculated from a Langmuir adsorption isotherm determined by a ζ‐potential titration measurement. Microcalorimetry measurements independently validate the adsorption free energy. Emulsion flocculation and coacervation are observed in the visual phase behavior as well as the ζ‐potential titration measurements. The effect of PE charge density shows that PE‐surfactant coacervation is the driving force in these PE‐emulsion systems.
„The most likely future isn’t“: Landnutzungsszenarien für Mitteldeutschland
Authors: Hauck Jennifer , Priess Jörg A.
Published: August 2013

Scenarios are coherent, internally consistent and plausible descriptions of possible future states, for example of land use in a region or a different spatial unit, which take the influence of markets, policy, climate into account. The qualitative descriptions of scenarios are called storylines, for example written narratives but also maps, pictures or movies. Apart from scientific purposes scenarios and storylines respectively are increasingly used in political contexts and national as well as international scientific advisory boards. They provide insights into future opportunities and scopes of actions and show the consequences of alternative policies. The paper introduces the participatory development process of storylines of land use in Central Germany as well as the final storylines and shows their potential uses. One example for the scientific application of the storylines is their use as a basis for computer-based land use change simulation (modelling). A further use of the storylines is seen in the context of land use planning. The storylines provide insights into alternative land uses and their positive and negative impacts, which can aid spatial planning or the development of policy measures or management strategies.
Unimodular random trees
Authors: BENJAMINI ITAI , LYONS RUSSELL , SCHRAMM ODED
Published: August 2013

We consider unimodular random rooted trees (URTs) and invariant forests in Cayley graphs. We show that URTs of bounded degree are the same as the law of the component of the root in an invariant percolation on a regular tree. We use this to give a new proof that URTs are sofic, a result of Elek. We show that ends of invariant forests in the hyperbolic plane converge to ideal boundary points. We also note that uniform integrability of the degree distribution of a family of finite graphs implies tightness of that family for local convergence, also known as random weak convergence.
A geometric path from zero Lyapunov exponents to rotation cocycles
Authors: BOCHI JAIRO , NAVAS ANDRÉS
Published: August 2013

We consider cocycles of isometries on spaces of non-positive curvature $H$. We show that the supremum of the drift over all invariant ergodic probability measures equals the infimum of the displacements of continuous sections under the cocycle dynamics. In particular, if a cocycle has uniform sublinear drift, then there are almost invariant sections, that is, sections that move arbitrarily little under the cocycle dynamics. If, in addition, $H$ is a symmetric space, then we show that almost invariant sections can be made invariant by perturbing the cocycle.
Experimental verification of power-law non-Newtonian axisymmetric porous gravity currents
Authors: Longo Sandro , Di Federico Vittorio , Chiapponi Luca , Archetti Renata
Published: August 2013

We present a theoretical and experimental analysis of axisymmetric gravity currents of power-law fluids in homogeneous porous media. The non-Newtonian shear-thinning fluid is a mixture of water, glycerol and Xanthan gum ($n= 0. 33{\unicode{x2013}} 0. 53$), and it is injected into a porous layer of glass beads ($d= 1{\unicode{x2013}} 3~\mathrm{mm} $). We compare experiments conducted with constant ($\alpha = 1$) and time-increasing ($\alpha = 1. 5$ and $2. 0$) influxes to theoretical self-similar solutions obtained by the numerical integration of the nonlinear ordinary differential equation that describes one-dimensional transient motion. The theoretical analysis is confirmed by experimental data. In addition, the selection of the most appropriate expression for the tortuosity factor and the choice of the correct range of shear stress for the determination of the rheological parameters are shown to be crucial to obtaining a good fit between the theory and experiments.
Dietary fish oil and DHA down-regulate antigen-activated CD4+T-cells while promoting the formation of liquid-ordered mesodomains
Authors: Kim Wooki , Barhoumi Rola , McMurray David N. , Chapkin Robert S.
Published: August 2013

We have demonstrated previously thatn-3 PUFA endogenously produced byfat-1transgenic mice regulate CD4+T-cell function by affecting the formation of lipid rafts, liquid-ordered mesodomains in the plasma membrane. In the present study, we tested the effects of dietary sources ofn-3 PUFA, i.e. fish oil (FO) or purified DHA, when compared with ann-6 PUFA-enriched maize oil control diet in DO11.10 T-cell receptor transgenic mice. Dietaryn-3 PUFA were enriched in CD4+T-cells, resulting in the increase of then-3:n-6 ratio. Following antigen-specific CD4+T-cell activation by B-lymphoma cells pulsed with the ovalbumin 323–339 peptide, the formation of liquid-ordered mesodomains at the immunological synapse relative to the whole CD4+T-cell, as assessed by Laurdan labelling, was increased (P< 0·05) in the FO-fed group. The FO diet also suppressed (P< 0·05) the co-localisation of PKCθ with ganglioside GM1 (monosialotetrahexosylganglioside), a marker for lipid rafts, which is consistent with previous observations. In contrast, the DHA diet down-regulated (P< 0·05) PKCθ signalling by moderately affecting the membrane liquid order at the immunological synapse, suggesting the potential contribution of the other majorn-3 PUFA components of FO, including EPA.
A simple method to prevent the obstruction of post-tympanoplasty ventilation tubes
Authors: Leong A C , Bowdler D A
Published: August 2013

The simultaneous insertion of a ventilation tube or grommet during tympanoplasty is a well-recognised practice among otologists. It is used to reverse atelectasis and to repneumatise the middle ear. A troublesome problem which can occur is post-operative, intraluminal grommet obstruction by blood or viscous mucoid secretions. Routine post-operative use of eardrops may help prevent grommet obstruction but cannot be administered after tympanoplasty when the ear canal is packed with dressings for up to three weeks post-operatively. In this article, we describe a simple method to prevent post-tympanoplasty grommet obstruction.
Operative management of external auditory canal cholesteatoma: case series and literature review
Authors: Sayles M , Kamel H A , Fahmy F F
Published: August 2013

Objectives:

To describe the clinical features of external auditory canal cholesteatoma, and to assess the outcome following bony meatoplasty with tragal cartilage and perichondrium graft repair.

Methods:

A retrospective review was carried out, comprising all patients with external auditory canal cholesteatoma who presented between January 2007 and December 2011. Patients underwent pre-operative audiometry and computed tomography imaging of the temporal bones, before undergoing bony meatoplasty via a postauricular incision. Pre- and post-operative comparisons were made of patients' otological symptoms and the otoscopic appearance of the external ear canal.

Results and conclusion:

Eight patients were included in the analyses. The median age of patients was 46.5 years (range 14–68 years), with a male to female ratio of 1:1. The median length of follow up was 16 months. The most common presenting features were unilateral otalgia and purulent otorrhoea. All patients had relatively advanced disease at presentation, with erosion of the temporal bone. All patients underwent bony meatoplasty via a postauricular approach to eradicate the disease. Bony meatoplasty was successful in the definitive management of external ear canal cholesteatoma.
Fear and Reason
Authors: Kekes John
Published: August 2013

The subject of this paper is a particular kind of fear. The danger to which it is a response is the possibility that the evaluative dimension of life from which we derive the values by which we live is arbitrary. If it were arbitrary, nothing we value would be valuable. There are strong reasons both for and against this kind of fear. I am concerned with understanding these reasons and judging their strengths and weaknesses.
Universal Moral Standards and the Problem of Cultural Relativism in Hume's ‘A Dialogue’
Authors: Bohlin Henrik
Published: August 2013

An interpretation and critical re-construction is offered of David Hume's argument on cultural relativism in the essay ‘A Dialogue’ (1751). For any issue of moral disagreement, Hume contends, either one side can be shown right and the other wrong, or imprecision in moral principles leaves room for more than one reasonable view, or the disagreement concerns a morally indifferent aesthetic matter, or it is caused by ‘artificial’ moral sentiments. In each case, relativism is the wrong view. Following an analysis of each disagreement type, and the crucial notion of ‘artificial’ views, it is concluded that Hume's anti-relativist argument is sound.
Adam Ferguson as a Moral Philosopher
Authors: Graham Gordon
Published: August 2013

Adam Ferguson has received little of the renewed attention that contemporary philosophers have given to the philosophers of the Scottish Enlightenment, most notably David Hume, Thomas Reid and Adam Smith. There are good reasons for this difference. Yet, the conception of moral philosophy at work in Ferguson's writings can nevertheless be called upon to throw important critical light on the current enthusiasm for philosophical ethics and applied philosophy. Eighteenth century ‘moral science’ took its significance from a context that modern philosophers who seek to be practically ‘relevant’ need, but lack.
SMALL BANDWIDTH ASYMPTOTICS FOR DENSITY-WEIGHTED AVERAGE DERIVATIVES
Authors: Cattaneo Matias D. , Crump Richard K. , Jansson Michael
Published: August 2013

This paper proposes (apparently) novel standard error formulas for the density-weighted average derivative estimator of Powell, Stock, and Stoker (Econometrica 57, 1989). Asymptotic validity of the standard errors developed in this paper does not require the use of higher-order kernels, and the standard errors are “robust” in the sense that they accommodate (but do not require) bandwidths that are smaller than those for which conventional standard errors are valid. Moreover, the results of a Monte Carlo experiment suggest that the finite sample coverage rates of confidence intervals constructed using the standard errors developed in this papercoincide (approximately) with the nominal coverage rates across a nontrivial range of bandwidths.
ASYMPTOTIC NORMALITY FOR WEIGHTED SUMS OF LINEAR PROCESSES
Authors: Abadir Karim M. , Distaso Walter , Giraitis Liudas , Koul Hira L.
Published: August 2013

We establish asymptotic normality of weighted sums of linear processes with general triangular array weights and when the innovations in the linear process are martingale differences. The results are obtained under minimal conditions on the weights and innovations. We also obtain weak convergence of weighted partial sum processes. The results are applicable to linear processes that have short or long memory or exhibit seasonal long memory behavior. In particular, they are applicable to GARCH and ARCH(∞) models and to their squares. They are also useful in deriving asymptotic normality of kernel-type estimators of a nonparametric regression function with short or long memory moving average errors.
Intestinal ischaemia as a severe presentation of Kawasaki disease leading to short-bowel syndrome
Authors: Godart François , Bakhti Ouassim M. , Bonnevalle Michel
Published: August 2013

The authors describe a case of Kawasaki disease who presented fever, coronary artery aneurysm, and ischaemic intestinal obstruction requiring stage resections. A review of literature of such association is performed. Atypical Kawasaki disease is more complex to diagnose and in combination of persistent fever with no definite cause and surgical abdominal pain, Kawasaki disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis.
A Preliminary Investigation into the Existence of a Hypervigilance Subtype of Auditory Hallucination in People with Psychosis
Authors: Garwood Lucy , Dodgson Guy , Bruce Vicki , McCarthy-Jones Simon
Published: August 2013

Background: The phenomenological heterogeneity of auditory hallucinations (AHs) means individual models struggle to account for all aspects of the experience. One alternative is that distinct subtypes of AHs exist, with each requiring their own unique explanatory model and tailored cognitive behavioural intervention strategies. Aims: This exploratory study tested for the presence of one specific potential AH-subtype, hypervigilance hallucinations (HV-AHs). Method: Four specific aspects of the phenomenology of AHs (chosen on the basis of the predicted phenomenology of HV-AHs) were assessed using a semi-structured interview in 32 individual AHs taken from reports from 15 patients with psychosis. Results: Cluster analysis (at the level of the individual AH-experience) offered support for the existence of a distinct HV-AH subtype, characterized by hearing threatening, externally-located voices when attention was externally-focused. Other clusters identified all shared the contrasting properties of occurring in quiet contexts when patients’ attention was internally focused. Conclusions: The results offered tentative support for the existence of an HV-AH subcategorization and justifies future research in larger samples. Potential implications for models of AHs are also considered.
Preliminary Evidence for a Sex-Specific Relationship between Amount of Cannabis Use and Neurocognitive Performance in Young Adult Cannabis Users
Authors: Crane Natania A. , Schuster Randi Melissa , Gonzalez Raul
Published: August 2013

Accumulating evidence suggests neuropsychological deficits from cannabis use, with a burgeoning area of preclinical research indicating possible sex-differences. However, few studies have examined how cannabis use may differentially impact neurocognition in male and female cannabis users. As such, we examined potential sex-differences in associations between amount of cannabis use (across several time frames) and neurocognitive performance among young adult regular cannabis users. Consistent with previous studies, more cannabis use was generally associated with poorer episodic memory and decision-making, but not other measures of inhibitory control. However, patterns of results suggested sex-specific dissociations. In particular, more cannabis use was more consistently associated with poorer episodic memory performance in females than males. Conversely, more cannabis use was associated with poorer decision-making performance for males, but not females. These results provide further evidence for residual cannabis-associated neurocognitive deficits and suggest the importance of examining the impact of cannabis on neurocognition separately for males and females. (JINS, 2013, 19, 1–7)
A MACROECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF GUEST WORKER PERMITS
Authors: Khraiche Maroula
Published: August 2013

This paper evaluates the optimality of a temporary worker permit policy from the point of view of the host country by using a two-country dynamic general equilibrium model, calibrated with data from the United States and Mexico. In the model, the decision to migrate and the corresponding decision to return are endogenous and take place within families that are heterogeneous in terms of human capital. After finding a migrant's optimal migration duration and the resulting shrinkage in the wage gap and change in interest rates, the paper derives the restriction on migrants' stay that maximizes natives' utility. It also derives the migrant length of stay that would pass a majority vote. When migration duration is restricted, the fraction of the native population made better off is maximized with a permit length of four years.
THE CYCLICALITY OF AUTOMATIC AND DISCRETIONARY FISCAL POLICY: WHAT CAN REAL-TIME DATA TELL US?
Authors: Bernoth Kerstin , Hughes Hallett Andrew , Lewis John
Published: August 2013

This paper develops a new methodology for estimating both the automatic and discretionary components of fiscal policy in one reaction function using the differences between real-time and ex post data. Discretionary policy should respond to information available to the policy maker at the time (real-time data), whereas automatic fiscal policy should respond to the true state of the economy at the time (proxied by the final data). We find that the intended discretionary response of fiscal policy to the cycle is counter-cyclical. Our estimates suggest that the automatic stabilizers are at the lower end of the range found in the related literature. This new methodology reduces the risk present in the conventional CAB approach that part of the discretionary actions may be wrongly attributed to automatic stabilizers. In that sense, automatic stabilizers are typically not as strong as usually claimed. This could be of particular use in countries where insufficient data exist to estimate structural budget sensitivities directly.
Adjective placement in simultaneous bilinguals (German–Italian) and the concept of cross-linguistic overcorrection
Authors: KUPISCH TANJA
Published: August 2013

Cross-linguistic influence (CLI) has been claimed to occur under the conditions of structural overlap, interfacing, syntactic complexity and language dominance. This study tested adjective placement in the Italian of 19 adult German–Italian simultaneous bilinguals, comparing naturalistic and experimental data. The results show no CLI from German, although the conditions for CLI are given. Instead, bilingual adults tend to overuse a structure that is unique to Italian, unlike bilingual children in previous studies. However, they do so only in the experimental data. In order to account for this, I introduce the concept of cross-linguistic overcorrection in contrast to cross-linguistic influence.
Impact of an education intervention using email for the prevention of weight gain among adult workers
Authors: Jaime Patricia Constante , Bandoni Daniel Henrique , Sarno Flávio
Published: August 2013

Objective

To evaluate the impact of a worksite intervention to prevent weight gain among adult workers.

Design

A controlled community trial was performed by dividing the workers into two groups: intervention group (IG) and control group (CG). The theoretical framework applied was Intervention Mapping Protocol and the intervention was implemented through interactive software for weight self-monitoring. To evaluate the impact of the intervention, the differences in weight, BMI and waist circumference between the IG and CG were assessed before and 6 months after the intervention by regression models. Additionally, the sustainability of the intervention was evaluated at 12 months after the intervention.

Settings

São Paulo, Brazil.

Subjects

Four companies; 281 workers for the analysis of effectiveness and 427 for the analysis of sustainability.

Results

The intervention resulted in significant reductions in weight, BMI and waist circumference in the IG compared with the CG. The impact of the intervention on IG individuals’ body weight was −0·73 kg, while the weight of CG individuals increased. IG individuals with adequate initial weights did not show significant variations, while those who were overweight demonstrated a significant reduction in body weight. The intervention resulted in a reduction of 0·26 kg/m2 in BMI and 0·99 cm in waist circumference, and the sustainability analysis after 12 months showed a continued reduction in body weight (−0·72 kg).

Conclusions

The behavioural intervention was effective, resulting in weight maintenance among participants with adequate initial weight and in significant reductions among those who were overweight. More research on longer-term weight maintenance is needed.
The contribution of mixed dishes to vegetable intake among US children and adolescents
Authors: Branum Amy M , Rossen Lauren M
Published: August 2013

Objective

To describe the contribution of mixed dishes to vegetable consumption and to estimate vegetable intake according to specific types of vegetables and other foods among US children and adolescents.

Design

The 2003–2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a nationally representative probability survey conducted in the USA.

Setting

Civilian non-institutionalized US population.

Subjects

All children and adolescents aged 2–18 years who met eligibility criteria (n 9169).

Results

Approximately 59 % of total vegetable intake came from whole forms of vegetables with 41 % coming from a mixed dish. White potatoes (10·7 (se 0·6) %), fried potatoes (10·2 (se 0·4) %), potato chips (8·6 (se 0·5) %) and other vegetables (9·2 (se 0·5) %) accounted for most vegetables in their whole forms, whereas pasta dishes (9·5 (se 0·4) %), chilli/soups/stews (7·0 (se 0·5) %), pizza/calzones (7·6 (se 0·3) %) and other foods (13·7 (se 0·6) %) accounted for most mixed dishes. Usual mean vegetable intake was 1·02 cup equivalents/d; however, after excluding vegetables from mixed dishes, mean intake fell to 0·54 cup equivalents/d and to 0·32 cup equivalents/d when fried potatoes were further excluded.

Conclusions

Mixed dishes account for nearly half of overall vegetable intake in US children and adolescents. It is critical for future research to examine various components of vegetable intake carefully in order to inform policy and programmatic efforts aimed at improving dietary intake among children and adolescents.
Universal health coverage and user charges
Authors: Smith Peter C.
Published: August 2013

There has been an explosion of interest in the concept of ‘universal health coverage’, fuelled by publication of the World Health Report 2010. This paper argues that the system of user charges for health services is a fundamental determinant of levels of coverage. A charge can lead to a loss of utility in two ways. Citizens who are deterred from using services by the charge will suffer an adverse health impact. And citizens who use the service will suffer a loss of wealth. The role of social health insurance is threefold: to reduce households’ financial risk associated with sickness; to promote enhanced access to needed health services; and to contribute to societal equity objectives, through an implicit financial transfer from rich to poor and healthy to sick. In principle, an optimal user charge policy can ensure that the social health insurance funds are used to best effect in pursuit of these objectives. This paper calls for a fundamental rethink of attitudes and policy towards user charges.