bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Dynamic Optimization Technique for Redesigning OO Software for Reusability
Authors: Selvarani R. , Mangayarkarasi P.
Published: April 2015

An effective reuse of design in software engineering can enhance the productivity, escalate quality, and ensure reliability. Adoption of design reusability can benefit the Small and Medium Organization by curtailing production cost as well as execution period. However, in the presence of requirement volatility, lower team size and skill tradeoffs, it is challenging to understand the real time constraints of Small and Medium Enterprises. The adoption of design reusability and its relation to optimization in the design process is discussed in this paper. For better formulation of the problem, our study has identified three performance parameters viz. quantity, work schedule, and cost of new development. This paper proposes a formal model known as DyRM that evaluates design reusability using Chidamber and Kemerer metrics. DyRM is an analytical formulation of design reusability mainly targeted to estimate the above three parameters for these enterprises.
Including Performance Benchmarks into Continuous Integration to Enable DevOps
Authors: Waller Jan , Ehmke Nils C. , Hasselbring Wilhelm
Published: April 2015

The DevOps movement intends to improve communication, collaboration, and integration between software developers (Dev) and IT operations professionals (Ops). Automation of software quality assurance is key to DevOps success. We present how automated performance benchmarks may be included into continuous integration. As an example, we report on regression benchmarks for application monitoring frameworks and illustrate the inclusion of automated benchmarks into continuous integration setups.
Moving Beyond
Authors: Chimalakonda Sridhar , Reddy Y. Raghu , Shukla Rakesh
Published: April 2015

Software engineering researchers and their industrial counterparts have emphasized that research is essential for innovation. In practice, rather than ending up in a win-win situation, most of the times both the parties lose because of differences in expectations between the two sides. In this report, we briefly summarize the key insights from 1st International Workshop on Software Engineering Research and Industrial Practices (SER&IPs 2014) co-located with 36th International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE 2014). The core lesson that stems out of this workshop is a definite need to have multiple approaches to deal with software engineering research-industrial practices partnership. Specifically, the workshop presented two keynotes: one from an industrial researcher explaining the need for academic expertise and an academic researcher on how their research added value to industry. An invited seminar unveiled short-term and long-term funding opportunities followed by a list of presentations from peerreviewed submissions from both software engineering research and industry partners. Finally, the workshop ended with group discussions, brainstorming of potential topics that can lead to fruitful collaboration between software engineering researchers and industrial practitioners. A major lesson from the workshop is the choice of a topic that fosters a win-win situation for both parties in short-term and long-term collaborations.
Technical Debt
Authors: Seaman Carolyn , Nord Robert L. , Kruchten Philippe , Ozkaya Ipek
Published: April 2015

We report here on the Sixth International Workshop on Managing Technical Debt, collocated with the International Conference on Software Maintenance and Evolution (ICSME 2014). The major themes of discussion this year indicate a growing maturity in this area of investigation and the desire to move beyond definitional issues to impact.
An Approach to Ballet Dance Training through MS Kinect and Visualization in a CAVE Virtual Reality Environment
Authors: Kyan Matthew , Sun Guoyu , Li Haiyan , Zhong Ling , Muneesawang Paisarn , Dong Nan , Elder Bruce , Guan Ling
Published: April 2015

This article proposes a novel framework for the real-time capture, assessment, and visualization of ballet dance movements as performed by a student in an instructional, virtual reality (VR) setting. The acquisition of human movement data is facilitated by skeletal joint tracking captured using the popular Microsoft (MS) Kinect camera system, while instruction and performance evaluation are provided in the form of 3D visualizations and feedback through a CAVE virtual environment, in which the student is fully immersed. The proposed framework is based on the unsupervised parsing of ballet dance movement into a structuredposture spaceusing the spherical self-organizing map (SSOM). A unique feature descriptor is proposed to more appropriately reflect the subtleties of ballet dance movements, which are represented asgesture trajectoriesthrough posture space on the SSOM. This recognition subsystem is used to identify the category of movement the student is attempting when prompted (by a virtual instructor) to perform a particular dance sequence. The dance sequence is then segmented and cross-referenced against a library of gestural components performed by the teacher. This facilitates alignment and score-based assessment of individual movements within the context of the dance sequence. An immersive interface enables the student to review his or her performance from a number of vantage points, each providing a unique perspective and spatial context suggestive of how the student might make improvements in training. An evaluation of the recognition and virtual feedback systems is presented.
Role of Arc Processes in the Formation of Continental Crust
Authors: Jagoutz Oliver , Kelemen Peter B.
Published: April 2015

We review data and recent research on arc composition, focusing on the relatively complete arc crustal sections in the Jurassic Talkeetna arc (south central Alaska) and the Cretaceous Kohistan arc (northwest Pakistan), together with seismic data on the lower crust and uppermost mantle. Whereas primitive arc lavas are dominantly basaltic, the Kohistan crust is clearly andesitic and the Talkeetna crust could be andesitic. The andesitic compositions of the two arc sections are within the range of estimates for the major element composition of continental crust. Calculated seismic sections for Kohistan and Talkeetna provide a close match for the thicker parts of the active Izu arc, suggesting that it, too, could have an andesitic bulk composition. Because andesitic crust is buoyant with respect to the underlying mantle, much of this material represents a net addition to continental crust. Production of bulk crust from a parental melt in equilibrium with mantle olivine or pyroxene requires processing of igneous crust, probably via density instabilities. Delamination of dense cumulates from the base of arc crust, foundering into less dense, underlying mantle peridotite, is likely, as supported by geochemical evidence from Talkeetna and Kohistan. Relamination of buoyant, subducting material—during sediment subduction, subduction erosion, arc-arc collision, and continental collision—is also likely.
Political Decentralization
Authors: Mookherjee Dilip
Published: April 2015

I provide a critical overview of the literature on political decentralization. After reviewing first- and second-generation theories of federalism, I describe recent empirical studies focusing mainly on determinants of capture and local government accountability emphasized by second-generation theories. The article concludes by describing emerging new issues that deserve more attention in future research: a wider range of political distortions beyond capture and corruption; effects of decentralization on intercommunity allocations, learning, and experimentation, and on democracy itself; a comparison of decentralization with other organizational alternatives; and issues pertaining to design and implementation raised by first-generation federalism theories, such as interjurisdictional spillovers, vertical fiscal relations, the range of devolution, and the political economy of implementation.
TGF-β-induced IL-6 prevents development of acute lung injury in influenza A virus-infected F508del CFTR-heterozygous mice
Authors: Woods Parker S. , Tazi Mia F. , Chesarino Nicholas M. , Amer Amal O. , Davis Ian C.
Published: April 2015

As the eighth leading cause of annual mortality in the USA, influenza A viruses are a major public health concern. In 20% of patients, severe influenza progresses to acute lung injury (ALI). However, pathophysiological mechanisms underlying ALI development are poorly defined. We reported that, unlike wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 controls, influenza A virus-infected mice that are heterozygous for the F508del mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (HETs) did not develop ALI. This effect was associated with higher IL-6 and alveolar macrophages (AMs) at 6 days postinfection (d.p.i.) in HET bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). In the present study, we found that HET AMs were an important source of IL-6 at 6 d.p.i. Infection also induced TGF-β production by HET but not WT mice at 2 d.p.i. TGF-β neutralization at 2 d.p.i. (TGF-N) significantly reduced BALF IL-6 in HETs at 6 d.p.i. Neither TGF-N nor IL-6 neutralization at 4 d.p.i. (IL-6-N) altered postinfection weight loss or viral replication in either mouse strain. However, both treatments increased influenza A virus-induced hypoxemia, pulmonary edema, and lung dysfunction in HETs to WT levels at 6 d.p.i. TGF-N and IL-6-N did not affect BALF AM and neutrophil numbers but attenuated the CXCL-1/keratinocyte chemokine response in both strains and reduced IFN-γ production in WT mice. Finally, bone marrow transfer experiments showed that HET stromal and myeloid cells are both required for protection from ALI in HETs. These findings indicate that TGF-β-dependent production of IL-6 by AMs later in infection prevents ALI development in influenza A virus-infected HET mice.
Inherited Genetic Variants Associated with Occurrence of Multiple Primary Melanoma
Authors: Gibbs David C. , Orlow Irene , Kanetsky Peter A. , Luo Li , Kricker Anne , Armstrong Bruce K. , Anton-Culver Hoda , Gruber Stephen B. , Marrett Loraine D. , Gallagher Richard P. , Zanetti Roberto , Rosso Stefano , Dwyer Terence , Sharma Ajay , La Pilla Emily , From Lynn , Busam Klaus J. , Cust Anne E. , Ollila David W. , Begg Colin B. , Berwick Marianne , Thomas Nancy E.
Published: April 2015

Recent studies, including genome-wide association studies, have identified several putative low-penetrance susceptibility loci for melanoma. We sought to determine their generalizability to genetic predisposition for multiple primary melanoma in the international population-based Genes, Environment, and Melanoma (GEM) Study. GEM is a case–control study of 1,206 incident cases of multiple primary melanoma and 2,469 incident first primary melanoma participants as the control group. We investigated the odds of developing multiple primary melanoma for 47 SNPs from 21 distinct genetic regions previously reported to be associated with melanoma. ORs and 95% confidence intervals were determined using logistic regression models adjusted for baseline features (age, sex, age by sex interaction, and study center). We investigated univariable models and built multivariable models to assess independent effects of SNPs. Eleven SNPs in 6 gene neighborhoods (TERT/CLPTM1L, TYRP1, MTAP, TYR, NCOA6, and MX2) and a PARP1 haplotype were associated with multiple primary melanoma. In a multivariable model that included only the most statistically significant findings from univariable modeling and adjusted for pigmentary phenotype, back nevi, and baseline features, we found TERT/CLPTM1L rs401681 (P = 0.004), TYRP1 rs2733832 (P = 0.006), MTAP rs1335510 (P = 0.0005), TYR rs10830253 (P = 0.003), and MX2 rs45430 (P = 0.008) to be significantly associated with multiple primary melanoma, while NCOA6 rs4911442 approached significance (P = 0.06). The GEM Study provides additional evidence for the relevance of these genetic regions to melanoma risk and estimates the magnitude of the observed genetic effect on development of subsequent primary melanoma. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(6); 992–7. ©2015 AACR.
Molecular Pathways: Targeting Cellular Energy Metabolism in Cancer via Inhibition of SLC2A1 and LDHA
Authors: Ooi Aik T. , Gomperts Brigitte N.
Published: April 2015

Reprogramming of cellular energy metabolism is widely accepted to be one of the main hallmarks of cancer. The aberrant expression pattern of key regulators in the glycolysis pathway in cancer cells corroborates with the hypothesis that most cancer cells utilize aerobic glycolysis as their main ATP production method instead of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Overexpression of SLC2A1 and LDHA, both important regulators of the glycolysis pathway, was detected in the premalignant lesions and tumors of lung cancer patients, suggesting the involvement of these proteins in early carcinogenesis and tumor progression in cancer. Preclinical studies demonstrated that inhibiting SLC2A1 or LDHA led to diminished tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. SLC2A1 and LDHA inhibitors, when administered in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents, showed synergistic antitumor effects by resensitizing chemoresistant cancer cells to the chemotherapies. These results indicate that disrupting SLC2A1, LDHA, or other regulators in cancer cell energetics is a very promising approach for new targeted therapies. Clin Cancer Res; 21(11); 2440–4. ©2015 AACR.
Pilot Study on the Bioactivity of Vitamin D in the Skin after Oral Supplementation
Authors: Curiel-Lewandrowski Clara , Tang Jean Y. , Einspahr Janine G. , Bermudez Yira , Hsu Chiu Hsieh , Rezaee Melika , Lee Alex H. , Tangrea Joseph , Parnes Howard L. , Alberts David S. , Chow H.-H. Sherry
Published: April 2015

Laboratory studies suggest that vitamin D (VD) supplementation inhibits skin carcinogenesis. However, epidemiologic studies report mixed findings in the association between circulating VD levels and skin cancer risk. We conducted a clinical study to determine whether oral cholecalciferol supplementation would exert direct bioactivity in human skin through modulation of the VD receptor (VDR). We enrolled 25 individuals with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D levels <30 ng/mL and with skin photodamage to take 50,000 IU of cholecalciferol biweekly for 8 to 9 weeks. Then, we obtained baseline and end-of-study skin biopsies from photodamaged (PD) and photoprotected (PP) skin, and from benign nevi (BN) and tested for mRNA expression of VDR and cytochrome P450-24 (CYP24), and markers of keratinocytic differentiation. High-dose cholecalciferol supplementation significantly elevated circulating levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D (P < 0.0001) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin-D (P < 0.0001). VDR expression in PD- and PP-skin showed minimum changes after supplementation. CYP24 expression in PD- and PP-skin was increased after supplementation by 186%, P = 0.08, and 134%, P = 0.07, respectively. In BNs from 11 participants, a trend for higher VDR and CYP24 expression was observed (average of 20%, P = 0.08, and 544%, P = 0.09, respectively). Caspase-14 expression at the basal layer in PD skin samples was the only epidermal differentiation marker that was significantly increased (49%, P < 0.0001). High-dose cholecalciferol supplementation raised serum VD metabolite levels concurrently with CYP24 mRNA and caspase-14 levels in the skin. Our findings of significant variability in the range of VDR and CYP24 expression across study samples represent an important consideration in studies evaluating the role of VD as a skin cancer chemopreventive agent. Cancer Prev Res; 8(6); 563–9. ©2015 AACR.
Is the BFM Regimen Feasible for the Treatment of Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia? A Retrospective Analysis of the Outcomes of BFM and Hyper-CVAD Chemotherapy in Two Centers
Authors: Alacacioglu Inci , Medeni Serife S. , Ozsan Guner H. , Payzin Bahriye , Sevindik O. Gokmen , Acar Celal , Katgi Abdullah , Ozdemirkan Fusun , Piskin Ozden , Ozcan Mehmet A. , Undar Bulent , Demirkan Fatih
Published: April 2015

Multiple induction regimens have been developed for adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, there have been no prospective randomized trials that directly compare these regimens. In this study, we wanted to evaluate the outcome of 50 adult ALL patients treated with BFM (i.e. Berlin-Frankfurt-Munster, n = 20) and hyper-CVAD (n = 30) protocols between March 2006 and October 2012. The median age was 25 years in the BFM group and 30.5 years in the hyper-CVAD group with a male/female ratio of 15:5 and 17:13, respectively. Forty-five percent of the patients in the BFM group and 30.3% in the hyper-CVAD group were <25 years old. The majority of cases were B cell in origin (80% in the BFM group and 70% in the hyper-CVAD group). Complete remission after induction therapy was achieved in 95 and 96% of the patients, respectively. The median follow-up time was 37 months. The 5-year survival rate was higher in the BFM group than in the hyper-CVAD group (59 vs. 34%). There were also no complications which could cause a delay during the hyper-CVAD regimen. Both chemotherapies were well tolerated. None of the patients died from drug-related toxicity. Only mild liver enzyme elevations were seen as toxicity in the BFM group; these did not cause any delay in therapy. The BFM regimen seems to be feasible for adult patients with ALL in terms of tolerability and efficacy, especially in young adults.
Genetic Variation of MT-ND Genes in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration: Biochemical Phenotype-Genotype Correlation
Authors: Gaspar Rita , Santana Isabel , Mendes Cândida , Fernandes Ana Sofia , Duro Diana , Simões Marta , Luís Daniela , Santos Maria João , Grazina Manuela
Published: April 2015

Background: Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is the second most common early-onset dementia. Over the last few decades, a growing number of evidence suggests mitochondrial involvement in neurodegeneration, namely modifications of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) contributing to energy impairment. Objective: To sequence the 7 mitochondrially encoded complex I (MT-ND) genes in 70 FTLD patients and investigate mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) complex I activity. Methods: A sample of 70 patients was studied (39 females and 31 males; age range: 38-82 years, mean ± SD: 63 ± 11 years) with a probable diagnosis of FTLD. Total DNA was extracted from peripheral blood, and sequencing analysis of 7 MT-NDn (1, 2, 3, 4L, 4, 5, 6) genes was performed. Variants identified were submitted to in silico study. Spectrophotometric evaluation of MRC activity in lymphocytes was performed, and results were compared with age-matched controls. Results: A total of 358 (161 different) alterations were found in 92.9% of patients. According to in silico analysis of nonsynonymous variants, only 5 variations are possibly or probably damaging. Complex I activity is significantly decreased in patients. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report of the complete sequence of the MT-ND genes in FTLD patients and correlation with MRC activity. The high number of mtDNA variations identified and a significant decrease in complex I activity suggest a possible involvement of mtDNA alterations in FTLD. Although the majority of these alterations are not primarily pathogenic, an interaction with other mutations may occur, leading to the disease, worsening its expression or influencing age of onset.
Current State and Novel Approaches of Antiplatelet Therapy
Authors: Metharom Pat , Berndt Michael C. , Baker Ross I. , Andrews Robert K.
Published: April 2015

An unresolved problem with clinical use of antiplatelet therapy is that a significant number of individuals either still get thrombosis or run the risk of life-threatening bleeding. Antiplatelet drugs are widely used clinically, either chronically for people at risk of athero/thrombotic disease or to prevent thrombus formation during surgery. However, a subpopulation may be resistant to standard doses, while the platelet targets of these drugs are also critical for the normal hemostatic function of platelets. In this review, we will briefly examine current antiplatelet therapy and existing targets while focusing on new potential approaches for antiplatelet therapy and improved monitoring of effects on platelet reactivity in individuals, ultimately to improve antithrombosis with minimal bleeding. Primary platelet adhesion-signaling receptors, glycoprotein (GP)Ib-IX-V and GPVI, that bind von Willebrand factor/collagen and other prothrombotic factors are not targeted by drugs in clinical use, but they are of particular interest because of their key role in thrombus formation at pathological shear.
Nonclassical Patrolling Monocyte Function in the Vasculature
Authors: Thomas Graham , Tacke Robert , Hedrick Catherine C. , Hanna Richard N.
Published: April 2015

Nonclassical patrolling monocytes are characterized by their unique ability to actively patrol the vascular endothelium under homeostatic and inflammatory conditions. Patrolling monocyte subsets (CX3CR1
high
Ly6C
−
in mouse and CX3CR1
high
CD14
dim
CD16
+
in humans) are distinct from the classical monocyte subsets (CCR2
high
Ly6C
+
in mouse and CCR2
high
CD14
+
CD16
−
in humans) and exhibit unique functions in the vasculature and inflammatory disease. Patrolling monocytes function in several disease settings to remove damaged cells and debris from the vasculature and have been associated with wound healing and the resolution of inflammation in damaged tissues. This review highlights the unique functions of these patrolling monocytes in the vasculature and during inflammation.
Longitudinal Association of Carotid Plaque Presence and Intima-Media Thickness With Depressive Symptoms in the Elderly
Authors: Prugger Christof , Godin Ophelia , Perier Marie-Cécile , Ritchie Karen , Helmer Catherine , Empana Jean-Philippe , Tzourio Christophe , Dufouil Carole
Published: April 2015

Objective—

To investigate prospectively whether subclinical vascular disease is associated with future depressive symptoms in the elderly.

Approach and Results—

A multicenter cohort of community-dwelling individuals aged 65 to 85 years was examined for carotid plaque presence and common carotid artery intima-media thickness at baseline and followed up after 2, 4, 7, and 10 years. At baseline and follow-up examinations, depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). High level of depressive symptoms was defined as a CES-D score >16 in men and >22 in women. Among 4125 participants (58% women) at baseline, men more frequently showed carotid plaque presence and had higher mean common carotid artery intima-media thickness than women. After adjustment for major cardiovascular risk factors, carotid plaque presence was associated with a higher CES-D score at the 10-year follow-up in men (+1.46; 95% confidence interval, 0.71–2.20;
P
<0.001), but not in women. When restricting analyses to individuals without cardiovascular disease at baseline, carotid plaque presence increased the likelihood of high level of depressive symptoms at follow-up examinations in men (odds ratio, 1.47; 95% confidence interval, 1.06–2.05;
P
=0.022), but not in women. One SD increase in log-transformed common carotid artery intima-media thickness was associated with a higher CES-D score at the 10-year follow-up in women (+0.55; 95% confidence interval, 0.16–0.95;
P
=0.006) and men (+0.40; 95% confidence interval, 0.02–0.78;
P
=0.037). Common carotid artery intima-media thickness did not increase the likelihood of high level of depressive symptoms at follow-up in both sexes.

Conclusions—

Subclinical vascular disease is associated with the progression of depressive symptoms in elderly men and women and the occurrence of high level of depressive symptoms in elderly men.
Endothelial Epigenetics in Biomechanical Stress
Authors: Jiang Yi-Zhou , Manduchi Elisabetta , Jiménez Juan M. , Davies Peter F.
Published: April 2015

Arterial endothelial phenotype is regulated by local hemodynamic forces that are linked to regional susceptibility to atherogenesis. A complex hierarchy of transcriptional, translational, and post-translational mechanisms is greatly influenced by the characteristics of local arterial shear stress environments. We discuss the emerging role of localized disturbed blood flow on epigenetic mechanisms of endothelial responses to biomechanical stress, including transcriptional regulation by proximal promoter DNA methylation, and post-transcriptional and translational regulation of gene and protein expression by chromatin remodeling and noncoding RNA-based mechanisms. Dynamic responses to flow characteristics in vivo and in vitro include site-specific differentially methylated regions of swine and mouse endothelial methylomes, histone marks regulating chromatin conformation, microRNAs, and long noncoding RNAs. Flow-mediated epigenomic responses intersect with cis and trans factor regulation to maintain endothelial function in a shear-stressed environment and may contribute to localized endothelial dysfunctions that promote atherosusceptibility.
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Phospholipid Content and Cholesterol Efflux Capacity Are Reduced in Patients With Very High HDL Cholesterol and Coronary Disease
Authors: Agarwala Anandita P. , Rodrigues Amrith , Risman Marjorie , McCoy Mary , Trindade Kevin , Qu Liming , Cuchel Marina , Billheimer Jeffrey , Rader Daniel J.
Published: April 2015

Objective—

Plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) are strongly inversely associated with coronary artery disease (CAD), and high HDL-C is generally associated with reduced risk of CAD. Extremely high HDL-C with CAD is an unusual phenotype, and we hypothesized that the HDL in such individuals may have an altered composition and reduced function when compared with controls with similarly high HDL-C and no CAD.

Approach and Results—

Fifty-five subjects with very high HDL-C (mean, 86 mg/dL) and onset of CAD at the age of ≈60 years with no known risk factors for CAD (cases) were identified through systematic recruitment. A total of 120 control subjects without CAD, matched for race, sex, and HDL-C level (controls), were identified. In all subjects, HDL composition was analyzed and HDL cholesterol efflux capacity was assessed. HDL phospholipid composition was significantly lower in cases (92±37 mg/dL) than in controls (109±43 mg/dL;
P
=0.0095). HDL cholesterol efflux capacity was significantly lower in cases (1.96±0.39) than in controls (2.11±0.43;
P
=0.04).

Conclusions—

In people with very high HDL-C, reduced HDL phospholipid content and cholesterol efflux capacity are associated with the paradoxical development of CAD.
Myocardial Infarction–Associated SNP at 6p24 Interferes With MEF2 Binding and Associates With
PHACTR1
Expression Levels in Human Coronary Arteries
Authors: Beaudoin Mélissa , Gupta Rajat M. , Won Hong-Hee , Lo Ken Sin , Do Ron , Henderson Christopher A. , Lavoie-St-Amour Claire , Langlois Simon , Rivas Daniel , Lehoux Stephanie , Kathiresan Sekar , Tardif Jean-Claude , Musunuru Kiran , Lettre Guillaume
Published: April 2015

Objective—

Coronary artery disease (CAD), including myocardial infarction (MI), is the main cause of death in the world. Genome-wide association studies have identified dozens of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with CAD/MI. One of the most robust CAD/MI genetic associations is with intronic SNPs in the gene
PHACTR1
on chromosome 6p24. How these
PHACTR1
SNPs influence CAD/MI risk, and whether
PHACTR1
itself is the causal gene at the locus, is currently unknown.

Approach and Results—

Using genetic fine-mapping and DNA resequencing experiments, we prioritized an intronic SNP (rs9349379) in
PHACTR1
as causal variant. We showed that this variant is an expression quantitative trait locus for
PHACTR1
expression in human coronary arteries. Experiments in endothelial cell extracts confirmed that alleles at rs9349379 are differentially bound by the transcription factors myocyte enhancer factor-2. We engineered a deletion of this myocyte enhancer factor-2–binding site using CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing methodology. Heterozygous endothelial cells carrying this deletion express 35% less
PHACTR1
. Finally, we found no evidence that
PHACTR1
expression levels are induced when stimulating human endothelial cells with vascular endothelial growth factor, tumor necrosis factor-α, or shear stress.

Conclusions—

Our results establish a link between intronic SNPs in
PHACTR1
, myocyte enhancer factor-2 binding, and transcriptional functions at the locus,
PHACTR1
expression levels in coronary arteries and CAD/MI risk. Because
PHACTR1
SNPs are not associated with the traditional risk factors for CAD/MI (eg, blood lipids or pressure, diabetes mellitus), our results suggest that
PHACTR1
may influence CAD/MI risk through as yet unknown mechanisms in the vascular endothelium.
The impact of calcium assay change on a local adjusted calcium equation
Authors: Davies Sarah L , Hill Charlotte , Bailey Lisa M , Davison Andrew S , Milan Anna M
Published: April 2015

Background

Deriving and validating local adjusted calcium equations is important for ensuring appropriate calcium status classification. We investigated the impact on our local adjusted calcium equation of a change in calcium method by the manufacturer from cresolphthalein complexone to NM-BAPTA.

Methods

Calcium and albumin results from general practice requests were extracted from the Laboratory Information Management system for a three-month period. Results for which there was evidence of disturbance in calcium homeostasis were excluded leaving 13,482 sets of results for analysis. The adjusted calcium equation was derived following least squares regression analysis of total calcium on albumin and normalized to the mean calcium concentration of the data-set. The revised equation (NM-BAPTA calcium method) was compared with the previous equation (cresolphthalein complexone calcium method).

Results

The switch in calcium assay resulted in a small change in the adjusted calcium equation but was not considered to be clinically significant. The calcium reference interval differed from that proposed by Pathology Harmony in the UK.

Conclusions

Local adjusted calcium equations should be re-assessed following changes in the calcium method. A locally derived reference interval may differ from the consensus harmonized reference interval.
The impact of military engagement in disaster management on civil–military relations
Authors: Malešič Marjan
Published: April 2015

The frequency, scope and intensity of natural disasters are increasing, and so too are the number of victims, related deaths and the amount of economic damage. The increasing frequency of disasters often overwhelms civilian management structures and demands the engagement of the military. This has generated new problems and controversies. However, mainstream scholarship in this field has so far failed adequately to address civil–military relations in disaster management. This article highlights the issue and addresses the various arguments used to advocate or reject military involvement in disaster management: militarisation, utilitarian, security-strategic, functional-humanitarian and rejection-isolation arguments. This epistemological and ontological approach identifies, depicts and classifies the arguments. It also identifies the various controversies that accompany military engagement in disaster management as a basis for future research into civil–military relations in the field.
Educator talk ratio as a quality indicator in group-based patient education
Authors: Stenov Vibeke , Henriksen Jan Erik , Folker Anna P , Skinner Timothy C , Willaing Ingrid
Published: April 2015

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate participants’ experiences of and satisfaction with the content and outcome of 13 different sessions of a 4-day diabetes education programme and to compare participants’ experiences with the extent of educator talk in the sessions. A 10-second event coding was used to evaluate educators’ application of participatory methods in patient education.

Method:

Four diabetes education courses, each consisting of 13 sessions with 10–12 participants, were monitored, using the 10-second event coding to assess educator talk ratios. Three focus group interviews were performed after the course, and 19 exploratory interviews were performed with participants within 3 months of the end of the course. Participants were asked about their experiences of personal outcomes derived from participation in the programme in general and from participation in each session. Qualitative data were analysed using systematic text condensation focused on participants’ perceptions of the personal outcomes derived from each session. Participant reports were compared to measured educator talk ratios to assess relationships between experiences and educator talk ratios.

Results:

Positive participant-reported outcomes such as learning from each other and a feeling of safety and freedom were associated with low educator talk ratios in specific sessions. However, participants appreciated high talk ratios when educators presented knowledge attendees perceived as essential and meaningful to everyday life.

Conclusion:

The educator talk ratio is a useful metric to evaluate the quality of group-based diabetes education using participatory methods. However, it must be used in combination with an assessment of education content and format.
Predictors of vocational status in schizophrenia patients – Results from the Polish nationwide survey
Authors: Kiejna Andrzej , Piotrowski Patryk , Misiak Błażej , Adamowski Tomasz , Schubert Agata , Skrzekowska-Baran Iwona , Frydecka Dorota
Published: April 2015

Background:

Steady employment constitutes one of most important aspects of functional recovery in schizophrenia. Therefore, there is a need for understanding clinical and demographic factors predicting vocational status in schizophrenia.

Methods:

Clinical and demographic data of 1,010 schizophrenia patients were gathered from public outpatient clinics. We compared patients who maintained employment between the diagnosis time point and the day of assessment, with the patients who were employed in the diagnosis time point but were unemployed on the day of assessment with respect to clinical and demographic variables.

Results:

Lower educational attainment, lower-income region of residence, medical comorbidities (obesity, diabetes and hypertension), first hospitalization at inpatient unit in comparison with the day hospital, higher total number of hospitalizations and the number of inpatient hospitalizations were found to serve as predictors of unemployment throughout the course of schizophrenia. After application of Bonferroni correction and logistic binary regression analysis, lower educational attainment, higher number of inpatient hospitalizations and obesity predicted unemployment.

Conclusion:

Education, obesity and the number of inpatient hospitalizations seem to predict vocational outcome in schizophrenia. This study warrants further investigation of medical comorbidities in schizophrenia in terms of social consequences in order to indicate the direction of this relationship.
A longitudinal study of the health and wellbeing of culturally and linguistically diverse caregivers of people with psychosis in Australia
Authors: Poon Weng Cheong , Joubert Lynette , Harvey Carol
Published: April 2015

Background:

Despite Australia being an ethnically diverse country, there are limited longitudinal studies of the health and wellbeing of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) carers of people with psychosis. An Australian population-based survey found that 22.7% of carers of people with mental disorders were born overseas.

Aims:

This study aimed to explore the demographic profile, social connectedness, psychological health, quality of life, grief and caregiving consequences of CALD carers of people with psychosis over 12 months.

Method:

This longitudinal study utilised a prevalence survey design and recruited 52 CALD carers who were born in 24 countries outside Australia. A series of validated instruments were administered to assess carer health and wellbeing.

Results:

Descriptive and inferential analysis of the results suggested that CALD carers experienced social isolation (34.7%), psychological distress (28.9%), moderate grief and caregiving consequences and poorer quality of life than the general population. Younger CALD carers and spouse carers experienced greater negative caregiving consequences than other kinship or friend carers. There were no significant changes in these outcomes over the 12-month period of the study.

Conclusion:

Ethnic-sensitive interventions are needed to better support CALD carers experiencing negative caregiving consequences, especially younger carers or spouses, within the current level of service provision.
Study on reducing sink mark depth of a microcellular injection molded part with many reinforcing ribs
Authors: Li Shuai , Zhao Guoqun , Dong Guiwei , Wang Jiachang
Published: April 2015

As a novel injection molding process, microcellular injection molding process has the characteristics of saving material, decreasing warpage and surface sink mark, improving dimensional accuracy, etc. But for the plastic part with thick reinforcing ribs, if selection of process parameters are not reasonable, foaming quality of melt will be affected and obvious sink mark defects will appear on the surface of plastic part. This paper selected a medical appliance shell with many reinforcing ribs as research object. Simulation experiments of microcellular injection molding process were performed by using orthogonal experiment method. The influence of different process parameters, such as mold cavity surface temperature, melt temperature, injection rate, cooling time, weight reduction ratio and supercritical fluid level, on the surface sink mark of microcellular injection molding part was studied by using signal-to-noise ratio analysis and analysis of variance . The results showed that mold cavity surface temperature was the most important influence factor on surface sink mark depth of microcellular injection molding part, followed by weight reduction ratio, cooling time, supercritical fluid level, injection rate and melt temperature. Meanwhile, the optimal combination of process parameters was obtained for minimizing sink mark depth of microcellular injection molding part. The average surface sink mark depth of microcellular injection molding part molded by using the optimized process parameters was only 2.62 µm, compared to 4.87 µm of average surface sink mark depth of microcellular injection molding part molded by using the process parameters before optimization, the average sink mark depth of microcellular injection molding part was reduced by 46.2%. Finally, the forming mechanism of sink mark of microcellular injection molding part at locations of reinforcing ribs was discussed, and the influence mechanism of different process parameters on surface sink mark defects of microcellular injection molding part was also analyzed.
Microstructures and mechanical properties of MgOp/SPHC metal matrix composites joint by friction stir welding
Authors: Ahn Byung-Wook , Kim Jae-Ha , Choi Don-Hyun , Jung Seung-Boo
Published: April 2015

The SPHC/MgO composites were fabricated by friction stir welding (FSW) and then the mechanical property of the composites was investigated. MgO particles were flocculated on the advancing side in the stir zone (SZ) formed by one-pass processing. On the other hand, MgO particles were more homogenously distributed in the SZ formed by two-pass processing. Compared to the SZ without MgO particles, the hardness profile of the SZ with MgO particles was increased to 20–30 Hv due to refined grain by pinning effect. Grain growth in the SZ without MgO particles was observed at elevated temperature. On the other hand, the fine grain produced with MgO particles was maintained at elevated temperature (∼900℃) due to pinning effect by MgO particles.
Experimental study on the bending properties and failure mechanism of 3D multi-axial warp knitted composites at room and liquid nitrogen temperatures
Authors: Li Dian-sen , Jiang Nan , Jiang Lei , Lu Na
Published: April 2015

Three-point bending experiments on 3D multi-axial warp knitted composites with four fiber architectures are performed at room and liquid nitrogen temperatures. Macro-fracture morphology and scanning electron microscope micrographs are examined to understand the deformation and failure mechanism. The results show that the load–deflection curves are significantly different for four types of composites and the bending properties decrease with the increase of fiber orientation angle at room and liquid nitrogen temperatures. Meanwhile, the bending properties at liquid nitrogen temperature have been improved significantly than that of at room temperature. Moreover, the damage and failure patterns of composites vary with the test temperature. At liquid nitrogen temperature, the interfacial adhesion strength is enhanced significantly and the brittle failure feature becomes more obvious. In addition, the failure mechanism at room and liquid nitrogen temperatures can be significantly affected by the fiber architecture.
Unusual cause of acute abdomen in a child – torsion of greater omentum: report of two cases
Authors: Pogorelić Zenon , Katić Josip , Gudelj Karla , Mrklić Ivana , Vilović Katarina , Perko Zdravko
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Torsion of the omentum is twisting along its long axis and a rare cause of acute abdomen. Depending on associated conditions, it is classified as primary and secondary. It may mimic different pathologies presenting as acute abdomen, most common of them being acute appendicitis. Current choice for management of omental torsion is laparoscopic surgery.

Case presentation

We present two cases of omental torsion of two boys who presented with abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting and underwent emergency laparoscopy.

Conclusion

Omental torsion is very rare, and its diagnosis is usually made only after surgery. At laparoscopy, omental torsion is suspected when the appendix is normal and the symptoms and findings of torsion are present. Laparoscopy is a safe and effective approach for the diagnosis and management of omental torsion, with the advantages of reduced postoperative pain and hospital stay.
A Discordant Universe of Pluralisms
Authors: Son Kyong-Min
Published: April 2015

In his recent essay, Mark Wenman highlighted parallels between Connolly’s theory of pluralism and earlier iterations of pluralism in the postwar period and the early twentieth century. Focusing on his account of postwar pluralism and especially his interpretation of Dahl, I argue that Dahl’s vision of democracy as polyarchy is fundamentally at odds with Connolly’s. A close reading of Dahl’s text and a consideration of the historical context suggest that Dahl’s theory effectively creates a depoliticized world where citizens are unresponsive to claims about alternative possibilities of democratic life.
BDNF Promoter Methylation Associated with Suicidal Ideation in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Kim Jae-Min , Kang Hee-Ju , Kim Seon-Young , Kim Sung-Wan , Shin Il-Seon , Kim Hye-Ran , Park Min-Ho , Shin Myung-Geun , Yoon Jung-Han , Yoon Jin-Sang
Published: April 2015

Objective

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been considered a risk factor for suicidality. BDNF secretion is influenced by epigenetic (DNA methylation) and genetic (val66met polymorphism) profiles. We aimed to investigate the independent effects of BDNF promoter methylation status on suicidal ideation as well as the effects of its interaction with the val66met polymorphism in patients with breast cancer.

Methods

A total of279 patients with breast cancer were evaluated 1 week after breast surgery, and 244 (87%) were followed up 1 year later. Suicidal ideation was identified using the item addressing suicidal thoughts on the Beck Depression Inventory. The independent effects of BDNF methylation status on suicidal ideation at two points was investigated using multivariable logistic regression models. The two-way interactive effects of BDNF methylation status and the val66met polymorphism on suicidal ideation were also estimated using the same models.

Results

Increased BDNF methylation was significantly associated with suicidal ideation and depression 1 year after breast surgery, and this association was independent of potential covariates, including previous depression, current depressive symptoms, and BDNF genotype. No significant methylation-genotype interactions were found.

Conclusions

The BDNF hypothesis and the epigenetic origin of suicidality in patients with breast cancer were supported. BDNF gene methylation status may be a biological marker for suicidality in patients with breast cancer.
Shanghai Industries in the Civil War (1945-1947)
Authors: Henriot Christian
Published: April 2015

This article examines the fate of Shanghai industries during the Civil War period in China. It argues that in spite of extreme difficulties in the later part of the war, Shanghai industries bounced back very quickly and reached early wartime levels within a year. Thereafter, a series of economic and political restrictions led to a slowdown, then a paralysis. The article is based on a large and unique survey of Shanghai industries published in October 1947, probably the peak of the economic recovery after the war. The data were processed in geographic information systems that the author implemented to examine what industry represented in the urban space, what its impact was, and how it defined the city of Shanghai. The author contends that issues of security more than economic factors determined the particular industrial geography in the city.
Police Misconduct, Community Opposition, and Urban Governance in New York City, 1945–1965
Authors: Chronopoulos Themis
Published: April 2015

In the post–World War II period, the police department emerged as one of the most problematic municipal agencies in New York City. Patrolmen and their superiors did not pay much attention to crime; instead they looked the other way, received payoffs from organized crime, performed haphazardly, and tolerated conditions that were unacceptable in a modern city with global ambitions. At the same time, patrolmen demanded deference and respect from African American civilians and routinely demeaned and brutalized individuals who appeared to be challenging their authority. The antagonism between African Americans and the New York Police Department (NYPD) intensified as local and national black freedom organizations paid more attention to police behavior and made police reform one of their main goals.
“Beyond the Boundary”
Authors: Wu Chongqing
Published: April 2015

Sun Village, located in a remote part of coastal Fujian, has a tradition of migratory economic activities supplementary to agriculture—a tradition that could be called tongxiang tongye (same hometown, same trade). On the basis of rural social networks, Sun villagers have established an industry processing golden and silver jewelry in cities throughout China. This phenomenon is a countermovement against the predominant trend of rural China’s marginalization and “hollowing-out” relative to urban centers. This countermovement offers the possibility of reembedding economic activities within social relationships to create a “social economy.” Jiewai (“Beyond the Boundary”) is an alternative and pluralistic periphery that might undermine the center.