bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Performance Verification of Dynamic Load Aware Geographic Routing Protocol in IEEE 802.15.4a Networks
Authors: Kim Young-Duk , Kwon Soon , Son Joon-Woo , Kim Dongkyun
Published: May 2014

Although the IEEE 802.15.4a network provides accuracy localization for sensor nodes, it still suffers from congestion and bottleneck problems since the data traffic tends to concentrate on a certain intermediate node due to the shortest path first criteria when it utilizes a greedy routing method. Furthermore, the limited network bandwidth and node mobility features exacerbate this problem in wireless sensor networks with tiny sensor platforms. In this paper, we propose a new dynamic load aware geographical routing protocol, named DLAG, which periodically monitors the channel condition of each node and forwards a packet to the neighboring node with the least traffic load by defining new buffer threshold values for controlling the congestion. In addition, the proposed protocol also introduces traffic adaptive backoff and frame retransmission tuning techniques to provide prioritized channel access for congested nodes. In order to verify the performance of the proposed protocol, we conduct simulation verification experiments and the results show that the proposed protocol provides better performance than the legacy geographical routing schemes in terms of packet delivery ratio, end-to-end delay, network lifetime, and so forth.
Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha: A Link between Neuroinflammation and Excitotoxicity
Authors: Olmos Gabriel , Lladó Jerònia
Published: May 2014

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine that exerts both homeostatic and pathophysiological roles in the central nervous system. In pathological conditions, microglia release large amounts of TNF-α; thisde novoproduction of TNF-αis an important component of the so-called neuroinflammatory response that is associated with several neurological disorders. In addition, TNF-αcan potentiate glutamate-mediated cytotoxicity by two complementary mechanisms: indirectly, by inhibiting glutamate transport on astrocytes, and directly, by rapidly triggering the surface expression of Ca+2permeable-AMPA receptors and NMDA receptors, while decreasing inhibitory GABAAreceptors on neurons. Thus, the net effect of TNF-αis to alter the balance of excitation and inhibition resulting in a higher synaptic excitatory/inhibitory ratio. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which TNF-αlinks the neuroinflammatory and excitotoxic processes that occur in several neurodegenerative diseases, but with a special emphasis on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). As microglial activation and upregulation of TNF-αexpression is a common feature of several CNS diseases, as well as chronic opioid exposure and neuropathic pain, modulating TNF-αsignaling may represent a valuable target for intervention.
Evaluation of the In Vitro Antiplasmodial, Antileishmanial, and Antitrypanosomal Activity of Medicinal Plants Used in Saudi and Yemeni Traditional Medicine
Authors: Mothana Ramzi A. , Al-Musayeib Nawal M. , Al-Ajmi Mohamed F. , Cos Paul , Maes Louis
Published: May 2014

The antiplasmodial, antileishmanial, and antitrypanosomal activity of twenty‐five medicinal plants distributed in Saudi Arabia and Yemen was evaluated. The plants were extracted with methanol and screened in vitro against erythrocytic schizonts of Plasmodium falciparum, intracellular amastigotes of Leishmania infantum and Trypanosoma cruzi, and free trypomastigotes of T. brucei. To assess selectivity, cytotoxicity was determined on MRC‐5 cells. Criteria for activity were an IC50 < 10 μg/mL and high selectivity (SI). Seven plants showed interesting antiprotozoal activity in one or more models. Extracts of Caralluma penicillata and Acalypha ciliata showed fairly good activity against P. falciparum with IC50 of 6.7 and 10.8 μg/mL and adequate selectivity (SI > 9.6 and >5.9). Interesting activity against L. infantum was obtained with Verbascum bottae (IC50 of 3.2 μg/mL, SI 10.2) and Solanum glabratum (IC50 8.1 μg/mL, SI 3.4). The extracts of C. penicillata, Leucas virgata, Loranthus regularis, and V. bottae exhibited moderate activity against T. brucei (IC50 8.5, 8.1, 8.3, and 2.3 μg/mL; SI > 7.6, 7.7, 4.3, and >14.1). These results partly support the traditional use of some of the selected medicinal plants and warrant further investigations into the putative active constituents.
Polyol Pathway Exacerbated Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Injury in Steatotic Liver
Authors: Zhang Changhe , Huang Changjun , Tian Yuan , Li Xiangcheng
Published: May 2014

Background. The polyol pathway, a bypass pathway of glucose metabolism initiated by aldose reductase (AR), has been shown to play an important role in mediating tissue ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) impairment recently. Here, we investigated how and why this pathway might affect the fatty liver following I/R.Methods. Two opposite models were created: mice with high-fat-diet-induced liver steatosis were treated with aldose reductase inhibition (ARI) and subsequent I/R; and AR-overexpressing L02 hepatocytes were sequentially subjected to steatosis and hypoxia/reoxygenation. We next investigated (a) the hepatic injuries, including liver function, histology, and hepatocytes apoptosis/necrosis; (b) the NAD(P)(H) contents, redox status, and mitochondrial function; and (c) the flux through the caspase-dependent apoptosis pathway.Results. AR-inhibitionin vivomarkedly attenuated the I/R-induced liver injuries, maintained the homeostasis of NAD(P)(H) contents and redox status, and suppressed the caspase-dependent apoptosis pathway. Correspondingly, AR overexpressionin vitropresented the opposite effects.Conclusion. The flux through the polyol pathway may render steatotic liver greater vulnerability to I/R. Interventions targeting this pathway might provide a novel adjunctive approach to protect fatty liver from ischemia.
Comparison of the Sagittal Spine Lordosis by Supine Computed Tomography and Upright Conventional Radiographs in Patients with Spinal Trauma
Authors: Bouaicha Samy , Lamanna Claudia , Jentzsch Thorsten , Simmen Hans-Peter , Werner Clément M. L.
Published: May 2014

Study Design.Retrospective data analysis.Objective.To compare the sagittal lordosis of the lumbar spine by supine computed tomography (CT) and upright conventional radiographs.Summary of Background Data.There is sparse data about position and modality dependent changes of radiographic measurements in the sagittal lumbar spine.Methods.The anatomical and functional Cobb angles of the thoracolumbar spine in 153 patients with spinal injury were measured by conventional upright sagittal radiographs and supine CT scans. Patients were assigned either to group A (n=101), with radiologically confirmed vertebral fractures, or to group B (n=52), without any osseous lesions. The interchangeability of the two imaging modalities was calculated using a ±3° and 5° range of acceptance.Results.Group A showed a mean intraindividual difference of −3.8° for both the anatomical and the functional Cobb angle. Only 25.7% and 27.7% of the 101 patients showed a difference within the tolerated ±3° margin. Using the ±5° limits, only 46 and 47 individuals fell within the acceptable range, respectively. In the patients in group B, the mean intraindividual difference was −2.1° for the anatomical and −1.5° for the functional Cobb angle. Of the 52 patients, only 14 and 13 patients, respectively demonstrated an intraindividual difference within ±3°. With regard to a threshold of ±5°, both the functional and anatomical values were within the defined margins in only 25 (48%) patients.Conclusion.The use of supine CT measurements as a baseline assessment of the sagittal lordosis of the injured thoracolumbar spine does not appear to be appropriate when upright conventional sagittal plane radiographs are used for follow-up measurements.
Comparison of Jump-Diffusion Parameters Using Passage Times Estimation
Authors: Khaldi K. , Djeddour K. , Meddahi S.
Published: May 2014

The main purposes of this paper are two contributions: (1) it presents a new method, which is the first passage time generalized for all passage times (PT method), in order to estimate the parameters of stochastic jump-diffusion process. (2) It compares in a time series model, share price of gold, the empirical results of the estimation and forecasts obtained with the PT method and those obtained by the moments method applied to the MJD model.
Novel Strategies to Enforce an Epithelial Phenotype in Mesenchymal Cells
Authors: Dragoi Ana-Maria , Swiss Rachel , Gao Beile , Agaisse Hervé
Published: May 2014

E-cadherin downregulation in cancer cells is associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastatic prowess, but the underlying mechanisms are incompletely characterized. In this study, we probed E-cadherin expression at the plasma membrane as a functional assay to identify genes involved in E-cadherin downregulation. The assay was based on the E-cadherin–dependent invasion properties of the intracellular pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. On the basis of a functional readout, automated microscopy and computer-assisted image analysis were used to screen siRNAs targeting 7,000 human genes. The validity of the screen was supported by its definition of several known regulators of E-cadherin expression, including ZEB1, HDAC1, and MMP14. We identified three new regulators (FLASH, CASP7, and PCGF1), the silencing of which was sufficient to restore high levels of E-cadherin transcription. In addition, we identified two new regulators (FBXL5 and CAV2), the silencing of which was sufficient to increase E-cadherin expression at a posttranscriptional level. FLASH silencing regulated the expression of E-cadherin and other ZEB1-dependent genes, through posttranscriptional regulation of ZEB1, but it also regulated the expression of numerous ZEB1-independent genes with functions predicted to contribute to a restoration of the epithelial phenotype. Finally, we also report the identification of siRNA duplexes that potently restored the epithelial phenotype by mimicking the activity of known and putative microRNAs. Our findings suggest new ways to enforce epithelial phenotypes as a general strategy to treat cancer by blocking invasive and metastatic phenotypes associated with EMT. Cancer Res; 74(14); 3659–72. ©2014 AACR.
(+)-2-(1-Hydroxyl-4-Oxocyclohexyl) Ethyl Caffeate Suppresses Solar UV-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis by Targeting PI3K, ERK1/2, and p38
Authors: Lim Do Young , Lee Mee-Hyun , Shin Seung Ho , Chen Hanyoung , Ryu Joohyun , Shan Lei , Li Honglin , Bode Ann M. , Zhang Wei-Dong , Dong Zigang
Published: May 2014

For decades, skin cancer incidence has increased, mainly because of oncogenic signaling pathways activated by solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation (i.e., sun exposure). Solar UV induces multiple signaling pathways that are critical in the development of skin cancer, and therefore the development of compounds capable of targeting multiple molecules for chemoprevention of skin carcinogenesis is urgently needed. Herein, we examined the chemopreventive effects and the molecular mechanism of (+)-2-(1-hydroxyl-4-oxocyclohexyl) ethyl caffeate (HOEC), isolated from Incarvillea mairei var. grandiflora (Wehrhahn) Grierson. HOEC strongly inhibited neoplastic transformation of JB6 Cl41 cells without toxicity. PI3K, ERK1/2, and p38 kinase activities were suppressed by direct binding with HOEC in vitro. Our in silico docking data showed that HOEC binds at the ATP-binding site of each kinase. The inhibition of solar UV-induced PI3K, ERK1/2, and p38 kinase activities resulted in suppression of their downstream signaling pathways and AP1 and NF-κB transactivation in JB6 cells. Furthermore, topical application of HOEC reduced skin cancer incidence and tumor volume in SKH-1 hairless mice chronically exposed to solar UV. In summary, our results show that HOEC exerts inhibitory effects on multiple kinase targets and their downstream pathways activated by solar UV in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that HOEC is a potent chemopreventive compound against skin carcinogenesis caused by solar UV exposure. Cancer Prev Res; 7(8); 856–65. ©2014 AACR.
Health System Characteristics and Rates of Readmission After Acute Myocardial Infarction in the United States
Authors: Brown Jeremiah R. , Chang Chiang‐Hua , Zhou Weiping , MacKenzie Todd A. , Malenka David J. , Goodman David C.
Published: May 2014

Background

Interventions to reduce early readmissions have focused on patient characteristics and the importance of early follow‐up; however, less is known about the characteristics of health systems, including quality, capacity, and intensity, and their influence on readmission rates in the United States. Therefore, we examined the association of hospital patterns of medical care with rates of 30‐day readmission.

Methods and Results

Medicare beneficiaries hospitalized for an
AMI
(n=188 611) between 2008 and 2009 in 1088 hospitals in the United States were included in our cohort. We tested the association between hospital patterns of medical care quality (discharge planning care quality), capacity (hospital size measured as the number of beds, hospital‐level Medicare all medical admission rates, supply of primary care physicians and cardiologists), and intensity (measures of care during the last 6 months of life) on
CMS
risk‐adjusted rates of 30‐day readmission using Poisson multilevel mixed‐effects models adjusting for patient‐ and hospital‐level covariates. There were 38 350 readmissions at 30‐days (20.3%)
AMI
discharges. Controlling for patient characteristics, measures of hospital care associated with higher rates of readmission included higher hospital‐level rates for all medical admissions, per capita primary care physicians and cardiologists, and last 6 months of life care intensity measures including increased number of hospital days, number of
ICU
days, number of physician visits, and 10 or more different physicians seen during the last 6 months of life. Better discharge quality and larger hospitals were associated with lower rates of readmission.

Conclusions

In addition to quality of care, high 30‐day readmission rates are associated with hospital‐level measures of capacity and intensity. Efforts to reduce readmission rates may need to address these broader patterns of medical care.
Physical Activity and Exercise Recommendations for Stroke Survivors
Authors: Billinger Sandra A. , Arena Ross , Bernhardt Julie , Eng Janice J. , Franklin Barry A. , Johnson Cheryl Mortag , MacKay-Lyons Marilyn , Macko Richard F. , Mead Gillian E. , Roth Elliot J. , Shaughnessy Marianne , Tang Ada
Published: May 2014

Purpose—

This scientific statement provides an overview of the evidence on physical activity and exercise recommendations for stroke survivors. Evidence suggests that stroke survivors experience physical deconditioning and lead sedentary lifestyles. Therefore, this updated scientific statement serves as an overall guide for practitioners to gain a better understanding of the benefits of physical activity and recommendations for prescribing exercise for stroke survivors across all stages of recovery.

Methods—

Members of the writing group were appointed by the American Heart Association Stroke Council’s Scientific Statement Oversight Committee and the American Heart Association’s Manuscript Oversight Committee. The writers used systematic literature reviews, references to published clinical and epidemiology studies, morbidity and mortality reports, clinical and public health guidelines, authoritative statements, personal files, and expert opinion to summarize existing evidence and indicate gaps in current knowledge.

Results—

Physical inactivity after stroke is highly prevalent. The assessed body of evidence clearly supports the use of exercise training (both aerobic and strength training) for stroke survivors. Exercise training improves functional capacity, the ability to perform activities of daily living, and quality of life, and it reduces the risk for subsequent cardiovascular events. Physical activity goals and exercise prescription for stroke survivors need to be customized for the individual to maximize long-term adherence.

Conclusions—

The recommendation from this writing group is that physical activity and exercise prescription should be incorporated into the management of stroke survivors. The promotion of physical activity in stroke survivors should emphasize low- to moderate-intensity aerobic activity, muscle-strengthening activity, reduction of sedentary behavior, and risk management for secondary prevention of stroke.
A MODIS-Based Global 1-km Maximum Green Vegetation Fraction Dataset
Authors: Broxton Patrick D. , Zeng Xubin , Scheftic William , Troch Peter A.
Published: May 2014

Global land-cover data are widely used in regional and global models because land cover influences land–atmosphere exchanges of water, energy, momentum, and carbon. Many models use data of maximum green vegetation fraction (MGVF) to describe vegetation abundance. MGVF products have been created in the past using different methods, but their validation with ground sites is difficult. Furthermore, uncertainty is introduced because many products use a single year of satellite data. In this study, a global 1-km MGVF product is developed on the basis of a “climatology” of data of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) normalized difference vegetation index and land-cover type, which removes biases associated with unusual greenness and inaccurate land-cover classification for individual years. MGVF shows maximum annual variability from 2001 to 2012 for intermediate values of average MGVF, and the standard deviation of MGVF normalized by its mean value decreases nearly monotonically as MGVF increases. In addition, there are substantial differences between this climatology and MGVF data from the MODIS Continuous Fields (CF) Collection 3, which is currently used in the Community Land Model. Although the CF data only use 2001 MODIS data, many of these differences cannot be explained by usage of different years of data. In particular, MGVF as based on CF data is usually higher than that based on the MODIS climatology from this paper. It is difficult to judge which product is more realistic because of a lack of ground truth, but this new MGVF product is more consistent than the CF data with the MODIS leaf area index product (which is also used to describe vegetation abundance in models).
“He thinks he’s failed”
Authors: Sorensen Sue
Published: May 2014

This survey of clerical characters in Canadian English fiction from Ralph Connor (1901) to Marina Endicott (2008) indicates that our literary ministers, which have been very little studied, deviate significantly from British and American traditions. Writers such as Sinclair Ross (1941) , Margaret Laurence (1964) , Robertson Davies (1970 , 1981), and Warren Cariou (1999) present ministries that thrive when they are plural, communal, spontaneous, or feminine. Christian leadership in these books is surprising and eccentric, often shaped by pastors who do successful ministry in spite of themselves. Their lack of faith or confidence is often a key component of their ministries. Additionally, ministry arises from unexpected sources not sanctioned by ecclesiastical authority and is nevertheless effective and resilient.
Functionalism, multiple principals and the reform of the NATO secretariat after the Cold War
Authors: Dijkstra Hylke
Published: May 2014

The literature on international organizations tells us that diverging member states’ preferences and concerns about the loss of control are major obstacles to institutional reform. But what if changes in the international environment necessitate institutional reform? This article examines such dilemma in the case of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). NATO has faced functional pressures to adjust its machinery to the post-Cold War era, but has at the same time seen its membership and the preference heterogeneity of the membership increase. The article finds that institutional change is indeed difficult with multiple principals and uncertainty about the consequences of reform. Yet modest reform has still taken place. Firstly, strong functional pressures can help the member states to overcome their differences concerning institutional reform. Secondly, lower-level incremental reforms, beyond the control of the member states, have made NATO a more efficient organization. The empirical focus is on the development of the understudied International Staff post-1989.
Examining the Intersections of Music Making and Teaching for Four String Teachers
Authors: Pellegrino Kristen
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this phenomenological case study was to examine the intersections of music making and teaching for four string teachers. Data included background surveys, three interviews per participant, videotaped classroom observations (jointly viewed during the second interview), and a focus group interview that included music making. Findings revealed that the meanings participants attributed to their past music-making experiences mirrored their beliefs about why their students make music and informed their content knowledge. Music making outside the classroom had personal and professional benefits; participants described music making as something that provided renewed excitement and inspiration, increased compassion toward students as musical learners, was a catalyst for solving pedagogical problems, and maintained their ability to model for their students. Participants’ music making inside the classroom helped them to be more present in their teaching. They also used music making to inspire their students and themselves, to bring students’ attention to the teacher and the music, to gain credibility, to model technique and musicality, and to create a culture based on the love of making music.
Panel Conditioning in the General Social Survey
Authors: Halpern-Manners Andrew , Warren John Robert , Torche Florencia
Published: May 2014

Does participation in one wave of a survey have an effect on respondents’ answers to questions in subsequent waves? In this article, we investigate the presence and magnitude of “panel conditioning” effects in one of the most frequently used data sets in the social sciences: the General Social Survey (GSS). Using longitudinal records from the 2006, 2008, and 2010 surveys, we find convincing evidence that at least some GSS items suffer from this form of bias. To rule out the possibility of contamination due to selective attrition and/or unobserved heterogeneity, we strategically exploit a series of between-person comparisons across time-in-survey groups. This methodology, which can be implemented whenever researchers have access to at least three waves of rotating panel data, is described in some detail so as to facilitate future applications in data sets with similar design elements.
Political and Functional Local Government Consolidation
Authors: Leland Suzanne , Thurmaier Kurt
Published: May 2014

This analysis explores the options for a theoretical model to guide regional collaboration by local governments that is both politically feasible and consistent with core public administration values. The analysis first examines the research on the adoption, implementation and performance of political consolidation. We then examine the theory and research that underlie functional consolidation and assess both types in lieu of the values of public administration. We find that local government managers and elected officials need a theoretical model for regional collaboration that addresses a key obstacle to service consolidation among local governments: the perceived loss of political power and control associated with consolidation efforts. We suggest multilevel governance theory and the concept of shared sovereignty offer an approach to regional problems with an eye to the political as well as administrative issues, and with instruments that promote core public administration values. The concept of shared sovereignty that underpins the regional collaboration of the countries in Europe has both descriptive and predictive theoretical potential as a multilevel governance theory. The EU functions from a web of interlaced, interdependent agreements to share sovereignty in ways that manage political issues, economic factors, and administrative values, and in a fashion aligned with core PA values in the US.
After the Dust Settles: Reflections on Postwar Justice
Authors: Ceulemans Carl
Published: May 2014

Traditionally, just-war ethics tries to offer an answer to two distinct moral questions: when (if ever) is it morally permissible to start a war, and how should it be fought? For this specific purpose, just-war reasoning is divided into two parts. The jus ad bellum guides our moral thinking in initiating war; the jus in bello informs us on proper moral conduct during the hostilities. More recently, however, a number of authors have felt the need to add a third element to the just-war theory, that of the jus post bellum. A war, so it is argued, has a beginning, middle and end. There is no reason then why the termination and the longer term aftermath of the war should deserve less attention from a moral point of view. A lot more needs to be said and done before the jus post bellum will reach a comparable degree of substance and sophistication to the two other just-war parts. However, this is exactly what two recently published books on the subject – Eric Patterson’s Ethics beyond War’s End and Larry May’s After War Ends: A Philosophical Perspective – aim to do.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Wakerley BR , Tan MH , Ting EY
Published: May 2014

Background

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension or pseudotumour cerebri is primarily a disorder of young obese women characterised by symptoms and signs associated with raised intracranial pressure in the absence of a space-occupying lesion or other identifiable cause.

The overall incidence of idiopathic intracranial hypertension is approximately two per 100,000, but is considerably higher among obese individuals and, given the global obesity epidemic, is likely to rise further. The pathophysiology of this condition is poorly understood, but most theories focus on the presence of intracranial venous hypertension and/or increased cerebrospinal fluid outflow resistance and how this relates to obesity. A lack of randomised clinical trials has resulted in unsatisfactory treatment guidelines and although weight loss is important, especially when used in conjunction with drugs that reduce cerebrospinal fluid production, resistant cases remain difficult to manage and patients invariably undergo neurosurgical shunting procedures. The use of transverse cerebral sinus stenting remains contentious and long-term benefits are yet to be determined.

Conclusion

An understanding of the clinical features, diagnostic work-up and therapeutic options available for patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension is important both for neurologists and ophthalmologists as visual loss maybe permanent if untreated.
Vestibular migraine
Authors: Stolte Benjamin , Holle Dagny , Naegel Steffen , Diener Hans-Christoph , Obermann Mark
Published: May 2014

Background

The combination of vertigo, dizziness and balance disturbance with migraine is called vestibular migraine. Although it is estimated that up to 1% of the population suffers from this disease, it is still widely unknown and often underdiagnosed. Recently, the International Headache Society and the Báràny Society published the first joint document with mutually accepted diagnostic criteria for vestibular migraine.

Method

This review summarizes current knowledge on vestibular migraine with regard to epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathophysiology, differential diagnosis and therapeutic options.

Results

Approximately 30–50% of patients with migraine report vertigo, dizziness or balance disturbances with at least one migraine attack. Vestibular migraine often appears in a temporal delay to the first onset of migraine headache. In some patients the symptom of sudden onset disequilibrium was the main complaint and more worrisome than the accompanying migraine headache. The duration of attacks varies from a few seconds up to few days. The underlying pathophysiology of vestibular migraine is still widely unknown. As an important differential diagnosis, Ménière’s disease has to be considered and excluded.

Conclusion

As randomized controlled treatment trials are still missing in vestibular migraine, the therapeutic recommendations for vestibular migraine are currently based on the guidelines of migraine.
Primary Varicella Infection Presenting With Headache and Elevated Intracranial Pressure
Authors: Gilad Oded , Shefer-Averbuch Noa , Garty Ben Zion
Published: May 2014

Primary varicella infection may be associated with neurologic complications, such as cerebritis and meningoencephalitis. Several cases of varicella infection with elevated intracranial pressure have been reported. We describe a 13-year-old immunocompetent girl who presented with a clinical picture of headaches and elevated intracranial pressure as the only manifestation of primary varicella zoster infection. The working diagnosis at first was pseudotumor cerebri based on complaints of headache of 2 weeks’ duration, in addition to vomiting and papilledema, without fever or skin eruption. On lumbar puncture, opening pressure was 420 mmH2O, but mild pleocytosis and mildly elevated protein level ruled out the diagnosis of pseudotumor cerebri. Our patient had no history of previous varicella infection, and she did not receive the varicella zoster vaccine. Serology tests, done on admission and repeated 2 months later, suggested primary varicella infection. The literature on varicella infection associated with pseudotumor cerebri or elevated intracranial pressure is reviewed.
Assessment of the efficacy and safety of pre-emptive anti-cytomegalovirus (CMV) therapy in HIV-infected patients with CMV viraemia
Authors: Mattioni Sarah , Pavie Juliette , Porcher Raphaël , Scieux Catherine , Denis Blandine , De Castro Nathalie , Simon François , Molina Jean-Michel
Published: May 2014

A number of studies have demonstrated that cytomegalovirus (CMV) viraemia is a strong predictor for CMV end-organ disease (EOD) and death in HIV-infected patients. We assess the efficacy and safety of pre-emptive anti-CMV therapy (PACT) for preventing these events. We performed a retrospective study of all HIV-infected patients seen in our institution who had detectable CMV viraemia in 2007. Seventy-one patients with advanced HIV disease (median CD4 cell count = 61 cells/mm3) were studied. Sixteen patients received PACT (mainly valganciclovir). Patients who received PACT had lower CD4 cell counts and higher blood CMV DNA levels. The cumulative incidence of CMV EOD and death at one year was 44% and 21% in patients with and without PACT, respectively ( p = 0.013). Both PACT and high blood CMV DNA levels were significantly associated with CMV EOD and death in unadjusted analysis. In adjusted analyses, only blood CMV DNA levels remained significantly associated with the risk of CMV EOD and death, whereas PACT was associated with a non-significant trend towards reduced CMV EOD or death (hazard ratio: 0.25, p = 0.13). Five patients with PACT experienced severe drug-related adverse events. In conclusion, the use of PACT in HIV-infected patients with CMV viraemia could improve outcome but is associated with significant toxicity.
Influence of the level of arsenic (As) exposure and the presence of T860C polymorphism in human As urinary metabolic profile
Authors: Olmos V , Navoni JA , Calcagno ML , Sassone AH , Lepori EC Villaamil
Published: May 2014

The influence, on arsenic (As) urinary metabolic profile, of the level of As exposure was evaluated on chronic-exposed inhabitants of several locations of the Chaco-Pampean Plains in Argentina. Urinary As (UAs) was quantified as a measure of the level of exposure. The metabolic profile of UAs (inorganic As, monomethylarsonic acid, and dimethylarsinic acid) was also evaluated. The presence of T860C polymorphism on the arsenite methyltransferase encoding gene was investigated by desquamation of buccal cells. UAs showed a wide range of levels (from 18 µg/g to 4103 µg/g) of creatinine. A clear influence of age, gender, level of As exposure, and the presence of T860C polymorphism was observed on As metabolic profile. The influence of the level of exposure showed to be different between individuals carrying the wild type (WT) and the heterozygous (H) genotypes. Metabolic profile of individuals carrying the WT genotype seemed to be influenced by the level of exposure, while individuals with the H genotype did not. It is concluded that the level of As exposure seemed to have a significant influence on urinary metabolic profile of individuals carrying the WT genotype. In contrast, individuals carrying the H genotype seemed not to be affected the same way by increasing the As exposure level.
Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Sjøvold Endre
Published: May 2014

This article summarizes the contributions given in the five papers of the Small Group Research (SGR) special issue, Leadership and the Group. The five papers were first presented at the 8th Nordic Conference on Group and Social Psychology (GRASP, 2012) held at the Royal Norwegian Navy Academy in Bergen, Norway. Aside for summarizing each contribution, this introduction describes the contributions of each article in a broader context, and points to some implications for further research.
Decentralized strategy selection with learning automata for multiple pursuer–evader games
Authors: Givigi Sidney N , Schwartz Howard M
Published: May 2014

The multiple pursuers and evaders game may be represented as a Markov game. Using this modeling, one may interpret each player as a decentralized unit that has to work independently in order to complete a task. This is a distributed multiagent decision problem and several different possible solutions have already been proposed. However, most solutions require some sort of central coordination. In this paper, we intend to model each player as a learning automaton and let them evolve and adapt in order to solve the difficult problem they have at hand. We are also going to show that, using the proposed learning process, the players’ policies will converge to an equilibrium point. Simulations of such scenarios with multiple pursuers and evaders are presented in order to show the feasibility of the approach.
Unusual Case of HIT With Cardiac Arrest During Hemodialysis
Authors: Grandvuillemin Aurélie , Zanetta Gilbert , Perrin Julien , Amiral Jean , Elalamy Ismail , de Maistre Emmanuel
Published: May 2014

Objective: To report an unusual case of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) with cardiac arrest during hemodialysis (HD). Case Summary: An 88-year-old man previously treated with HD under enoxaparin for 3 years presented with dizziness and cyanosis at the beginning of HD on 3 consecutive sessions. Even though the dialyzer membrane was changed, he presented with cardiac arrest, from which he recovered quickly. At the same time, the platelet count fell, and HIT was suspected. No thrombosis was found. Anti-PF4/H, IL8, and NAP2 antibodies were negative, but platelet aggregation tests and serotonin-release assay were positive. After implementing HD with danaparoid, the platelet count returned to normal, and the patient remained asymptomatic. Discussion: Given the clinical context (low-molecular-weight heparin), complications (cardiac arrest and no thrombosis), and timing (3 years), this was an unusual case of HIT. According to the Naranjo probability scale, the causality of enoxaparin was evaluated as probable. In most reported cases, time to onset was short, clotting occurred in the extracorporeal system, and biological tests, including ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) anti-PF4/heparin, were positive. We found no triggering factor in this case, and given the biological results, a new antigenic target may be involved. Conclusions: HIT must be considered when acute systemic reactions occur at the beginning of HD sessions, even after several years of HD and with no change of anticoagulant, including low-molecular-weight heparin. The platelet count should be measured immediately after the reaction. The diagnosis is important because of possible cardiac arrest in this context.
Climate Change in the Newsroom
Authors: Hiles Sara Shipley , Hinnant Amanda
Published: May 2014

This study investigated how highly experienced environmental journalists view the professional norms of objectivity when covering climate change over time. Elite journalists were sought, and all had a minimum of 10 years of experience in climate coverage. In-depth interviews revealed a paradox: Most still profess belief in objectivity even as they reject or redefine it. Participants said that journalists should use objective practices and refrain from revealing their own biases, including advocating for the environment. However, participants have radically redefined the component of objectivity known as “balance.” They now advocate a “weight-of-evidence” approach, where stories reflect scientific consensus.
Fault detection in rolling element bearings using wavelet-based variance analysis and novelty detection
Authors: Ziaja Aleksandra , Antoniadou Ifigeneia , Barszcz Tomasz , Staszewski Wieslaw J , Worden Keith
Published: May 2014

Fractal signal processing and novelty detection are used for fault detection in rolling element bearings. The former applies the concept of self-similarity based on wavelet variance, and the latter is based on machine learning and utilises artificial neural networks. The method is demonstrated using simulated and experimental vibration data. The work presented involves validation both on laboratory test rig data and industrial wind turbine data. The results show that the method can be used successfully for automated fault detection in ball bearings under real operational conditions.
Impact damage testing on composite marine sandwich panels. Part 2: Instrumented drop weight
Authors: De Marco Muscat-Fenech Claire , Cortis Jeremy , Cassar Charles
Published: May 2014

Marine grade hybrid sandwich panels are designed in accordance with BS EN ISO 12215-5:2008 using a wet lay-up and cured under vacuum pressure. The high fibre content composite laminate skins use marine grade orthophthalic polyester, POLYLITE® 440-M850, resin and chopped strand mat (CSM)/woven E-glass; the core is DIVINYCELL® H100 closed cell linear polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam. Impact damage testing followed American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D7766-11 procedure C and ASTM D7136/D7136M-05. Impact damage was sustained by the default hemispherical indentor and further ‘standard’ geometrical indentor rocks – conical, pyramid and cylindrical. The investigation reviews the current state of affairs in impact sandwich testing procedures. A 50–80% through thickness penetration criteria is proposed following noted shortcomings in the standard originally intended for laminates. It is shown that the panel overall flexural rigidity to thickness ratio better describes the transition between ‘thin’ to ‘thick’ impact response; force measurements indicate that strain rate effects need to be considered; dent indentation can only be assessed through data acquistion; destructive damage observation sectioned specimen observations describe the impact damage sustained under the various indentor conditions, as well as the roles played by both the face composite skins and the core material.
Entrapments of consumerism: Adolescent prisoners, cognitive treatment, and consumption
Authors: Kramer Ronald , Rajah Valli , Sung Hung-En
Published: May 2014

Based on fieldwork involving unobtrusive observations and interview data collected from young male prisoners participating in a cognitive-therapy program, this article explores how consumerism interpolates the treatment setting and the cultural views of racially marginalized adolescents. While recent literature intimates that such men will possess idiosyncratic cultural “repertoires” or “worldviews,” we find that many young prisoners are strongly invested in consumerism. This is evident in the central role that money, commodities, and lifestyles play in their lives. We also find that correctional officers are just as wedded to consumerism, yet castigate the young men for how they make sense of what it means to live in a consumerist world. In our view, this embodies a peculiar form of social injustice that we call “consumerist entrapment”: Young men are strongly encouraged to adopt cultural orientations and consumerist behaviors for which they are subsequently penalized.
Mesenchymal stem cells ameliorate diabetic glomerular fibrosis in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting TGF-β signalling via secretion of bone morphogenetic protein 7
Authors: Lv Shasha , Liu Gang , Sun Aili , Wang Jianping , Cheng Jing , Wang Weiwei , Liu Xiangchun , Nie Huibin , Guan Guangju
Published: May 2014

Purpose:

To investigate whether mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could inhibit transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signalling pathway by paracrine action.

Methods:

Bone marrow–derived MSCs were transplanted to streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats via tail vein. MSC-conditioned media were used with a model of mesangial cell fibrosis induced by high glucose in vitro.

Results:

At 8 weeks after MSC treatment, the renal function and the glomerulosclerosis as revealed by periodic acid Schiff stain was dramatically attenuated. The expression of collagen I, collagen IV and α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) in diabetic kidney was decreased, and E-cadherin increased after MSC treatment. The TGF-β signalling pathway was suppressed both in vivo and in vitro. MSCs secreted a significant amount of bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7), in vitro, MSC-conditioned media inhibited TGF-β signalling stimulated by high glucose, and BMP7 neutralizing antibody blocked the inhibitory effect of MSC-conditioned media.

Conclusion:

MSCs ameliorated glomerular fibrosis in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway via secretion of BMP7.
Promoting the Psychological Well-Being of Italian Youth
Authors: Veltro Franco , Ialenti Valentina , Iannone Claudia , Bonanni Emiliana , Morales García Manuel Alejandro
Published: May 2014

School is potentially one of the most important and effective agencies for the promotion of mental health. For this reason, in Italy, the Mental Health Department of The National Health Institute has developed an intervention based on a structured handbook. The aim of this intervention is to promote the psychological well-being of the students. In this study, we have evaluated the efficacy of this intervention through a quasi-experimental study design of four classes (two were control) of secondary education, including 79 students aged 14 to 16 years (15.35 ± 0.68). Assessments were administered before and after the intervention. The results showed improvement in perceived self-efficacy ( p ≤ .001), emotional coping ( p = .003), and overall well-being ( p < .05). The students’ perception of usefulness was also increased ( p < .05); the intervention successfully promoted the idea of life as a continuous process of learning, in change and growth ( p < .05). The intervention was effective despite some limitations described by authors related to a lack of involvement of relatives and the team teachers, as well as the absence of homework; however, the adoption of a program promoting life skills, problem solving, and goal definition training is recommended with the use of a revised handbook.
Assessment and management of the unconscious patient
Authors: Palmer Katherine P
Published: May 2014

The management of an unconscious patient is a medical emergency, requiring prompt assessment and the appropriate use of first aid and life support procedures. Whether confronted by an unconscious patient on a home visit, or when needing to assess a collapsed patient at the surgery, a clear and stepwise approach to management is an important skill that should be acquired by all GPs.
Biological therapies for spondyloarthritis
Authors: Bruner Vincenzo , Atteno Mariangela , Spanò Angelo , Scarpa Raffaele , Peluso Rosario
Published: May 2014

Biological therapies and new imaging techniques have changed the therapeutic and diagnostic approach to spondyloarthritis. In patients with axial spondyloarthritis, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) inhibitor treatment is currently the only effective therapy in patients for whom conventional therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has failed. TNFα inhibitor treatment is more effective in preventing articular damage in peripheral joints than in axial ones. It is important to treat patients at an early stage of disease to reduce disease progression; moreover it is necessary to identify causes of therapy inefficacy in preventing joint damage in the axial subset.
Defending Puts the Anterior Cruciate Ligament at Risk During Soccer
Authors: Brophy Robert H. , Stepan Jeffrey G. , Silvers Holly J. , Mandelbaum Bert R.
Published: May 2014

Background:

Soccer athletes are at risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. To date, there are limited studies on the mechanisms of ACL injuries in soccer athletes and no video-based analysis or sex-based comparison of these mechanisms.

Hypothesis:

There is no difference in ACL injury mechanisms among soccer athletes by sex.

Study design:

Case series.

Level of evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

Fifty-five videos of ACL injuries in 32 male and 23 female soccer players were reviewed. Most athletes were professionals (22 males, 4 females) or collegiate players (8 males, 14 females). Visual analysis of each case was performed to describe the injury mechanisms in detail (game situation, player behavior, and lower extremity alignment).

Results:

The majority of ACL injuries occurred when the opposing team had the ball and the injured athlete was defending (73%). Females were more likely to be defending when they injured their ACLs (87% vs 63% for males, P = 0.045). The most common playing action was tackling (51%), followed by cutting (15%). Most injuries occurred due to a contact mechanism (56%) with no significant difference for sex. Females were more likely to suffer a noncontact injury in their left knee (54%) than males (33%) ( P = 0.05).

Conclusion:

Soccer players are at greatest risk for ACL injury when defending, especially when tackling the opponent in an attempt to win possession of the ball. Females are more likely to injure their ACLs when defending and are at greater risk for noncontact injuries in their left lower extremity.

Clinical Relevance:

Soccer ACL injury prevention programs should include proper defending and tackling techniques, particularly for female athletes.
Multivariate Logit and Probit models for simultaneous purchases: Presentation, uses, appeal and limitations
Authors: Aurier Philippe , Mejía Victor
Published: May 2014

This article presents Multivariate Logit (MVL) and Probit (MVP) models, which make it possible to analyse simultaneous purchases and relax the restrictive hypothesis that utility maximization leads to a single choice. These models enable a deeper analysis of competitive dynamics in a given category (variety seeking, complementarity, substitutability). The MVL model using a random parameter specification is illustrated in relation to the chocolate category. We underline the advantages and limitations of these models and propose new research avenues.