bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pilot study of the 5-HT2AR agonist psilocybin in the treatment of tobacco addiction
Authors: Johnson Matthew W , Garcia-Romeu Albert , Cosimano Mary P , Griffiths Roland R
Published: September 2014

Despite suggestive early findings on the therapeutic use of hallucinogens in the treatment of substance use disorders, rigorous follow-up has not been conducted. To determine the safety and feasibility of psilocybin as an adjunct to tobacco smoking cessation treatment we conducted an open-label pilot study administering moderate (20 mg/70 kg) and high (30 mg/70 kg) doses of psilocybin within a structured 15-week smoking cessation treatment protocol. Participants were 15 psychiatrically healthy nicotine-dependent smokers (10 males; mean age of 51 years), with a mean of six previous lifetime quit attempts, and smoking a mean of 19 cigarettes per day for a mean of 31 years at intake. Biomarkers assessing smoking status, and self-report measures of smoking behavior demonstrated that 12 of 15 participants (80%) showed seven-day point prevalence abstinence at 6-month follow-up. The observed smoking cessation rate substantially exceeds rates commonly reported for other behavioral and/or pharmacological therapies (typically <35%). Although the open-label design does not allow for definitive conclusions regarding the efficacy of psilocybin, these findings suggest psilocybin may be a potentially efficacious adjunct to current smoking cessation treatment models. The present study illustrates a framework for future research on the efficacy and mechanisms of hallucinogen-facilitated treatment of addiction.
Actor and analyst: A response to Coopmans and Button
Authors: Collins Harry , Evans Robert
Published: September 2014

We question the logic of Coopmans and Button’s critique of our analysis of expertise on three grounds. First, their critique depends on a clear distinction between actor and analysts that we show cannot be maintained. Second, we question their reticence to allow the use of taxonomies in the analysis of expertise, suggesting that it is contradicted by their own descriptions of expert work, and we accuse them of making a mistake in the way they relate commonsense to specialist skills. Finally, we express our puzzlement at the antiseptic-like precautions that some ethnomethodologists apply to analysts’ categories, especially given that – as we show – analysts’ categories sometimes provide a superior resource for understanding and can change the actors’ world as well as describing it.
What efficacy measures are clinically relevant and should be used in Cochrane reviews of acute migraine trials? An alternative viewpoint
Authors: Steiner TJ
Published: September 2014

I briefly review the purposes of efficacy measures, which go far beyond supporting new drug development. I use vignettes to illustrate the importance of functional recovery during the migraine attack, and argue that headache relief provides this. Sustained headache relief (SHR) is therefore a very worthwhile outcome when the alternative is a day of debilitating pain. As a measure, SHR may not be ideal for new drug development but it is informative to individuals, health care providers and politicians, and serves cost-effectiveness analysis better than any other. Cochrane are absolutely right to use it in systematic reviews along with the IHS-recommended measures.
The Epidemiology of Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Leroux Timothy , Wasserstein David , Dwyer Tim , Ogilvie-Harris Darrell J. , Marks Paul H. , Bach Bernard R. , Townley John B. , Mahomed Nizar , Chahal Jaskarndip
Published: September 2014

Background:

Knowledge of the rate of and risk factors for re-revision, reoperation, and readmission after revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is limited.

Purpose:

To determine the rate of and risk factors for re-revision, reoperation, and readmission after revision ACLR.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

All patients who underwent first revision ACLR in Ontario, Canada, from January 2004 to December 2010 were identified and followed until December 2012. Exclusions included age <16 years, previous osteotomy, or multiligament knee reconstruction. The main outcome was re-revision ACLR. Secondary outcomes included reoperation (irrigation and debridement [I&D], meniscectomy, manipulation under anesthesia, contralateral ACLR, and total knee arthroplasty) and readmission. Survival to re-revision was determined using the Kaplan-Meier approach. A Cox proportional hazards model or logistic regression were used to determine the influence of patient, surgical, and provider factors on outcomes. A post hoc analysis was performed to determine the influence of the aforementioned factors on postoperative infection risk.

Results:

Overall, 827 patients were included (median age, 30 years; 58.8% males). Single-stage revisions comprised 92.9% of cases, and a meniscal procedure (repair or debridement) was performed in 45.3% of cases. The re-revision rate at a mean follow-up of 4.8 ± 2.2 years was 4.4%, and the 5-year survival rate was 95.4%. The rates of I&D, meniscectomy, contralateral ACLR, and readmission were 0.8%, 3.1%, 3.4%, and 4.1%, respectively. Manipulation under anesthesia and total knee arthroplasty were rare. Young age significantly increased contralateral ACLR risk (risk decreased by 5.1% with each year of age >16 years; P = .02) but not re-revision ACLR risk. Low surgeon’s annual volume of revision ACLR (<4 revisions/year: odds ratio, 1.2; P = .02) and male sex (odds ratio, 13.3; P = .01) significantly increased overall infection risk; male sex also influenced I&D risk.

Conclusion:

Re-revision, reoperation, and readmission rates after revision ACLR were low, and the risk for I&D, infection, and contralateral ACLR were influenced by male sex, low surgeon volume, and young age, respectively.

Clinical Relevance:

This is the first study to determine morbidity rates and risk factors after revision ACLR, providing reference data from the general population.
Validation of the Collaboration and Support for Inclusive Teaching Scale in Special Education Teachers
Authors: Caputo Andrea , Langher Viviana
Published: September 2014

This article describes the development and initial validation of the Collaboration and Support for Inclusive Teaching, a measure of perceived support in special education teachers regarding the degree of collaboration with regular teachers for inclusive practice at school. The scale was validated on a sample of 276 special education teachers coming from lower and higher secondary schools by using both exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. The resulting 12-item scale was characterized by a one-factor solution explaining 46.59% of data variance and had good internal consistency with a Cronbach’s alpha of .876. Associations with other measures supported convergent and divergent validity of the scale. The usefulness of this scale is highlighted with regard to the improvement of cooperative teaching supporting school inclusion, as well as to the prevention of the risk of burnout in special education teachers.
Giant Axonal Neuropathy
Authors: Vijaykumar Kadambari , Bindu Parayil Sankaran , Taly Arun B. , Mahadevan Anita , Bharath Rose Dawn , Gayathri Narayanappa , Nagappa Madhu , Sinha Sanjib
Published: September 2014

Giant axonal neuropathy is an autosomal recessive disorder of childhood with distinct morphological features. An 8-year-old boy presented with progressive walking difficulty and recurrent falls. Evaluation showed frizzy hair, characteristic facies, sensory motor neuropathy, and ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed bilateral symmetric white matter signal changes in the cerebellum and periventricular regions along with involvement of the posterior limb of the internal capsule. Sural nerve biopsy demonstrated giant axons with neurofilament accumulation. The clinicopathologic manifestations of giant axonal neuropathy are discussed along with the clinical and histologic differential diagnoses.
Adaptive fuzzy logic-based sliding mode control for a nonholonomic mobile robot in the presence of dynamic uncertainties
Authors: Yue Ming , Wang Shuang , Zhang Yongshun
Published: September 2014

This paper is concerned with the trajectory tracking control of wheeled mobile robot in the presence of nonholonomic constraint on the robot kinematics and unpredictable uncertainties related to robot dynamics. In this study, by analyzing the practical implementation of the wheeled mobile robot, the unavoidable model errors and external disturbances are merged into a synthesized term which is defined as uncertain dynamics. For attenuating the effects of static tracking error, a PI-type sliding mode manifold is proposed; particularly, in order to suppress inherent chattering, a fuzzy logic system is employed to estimate the uncertain dynamics due to its universal approximation capability. Also, adaptive schemes are applied which make the controllers much more adaptability to overcome the changing environment. Eventually, with the aid of a double closed-loop control structure, the coordinated control objectives of robot posture and uncertainties rejection are able to achieve simultaneously. Simulation studies verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control approaches.
The five-degree of freedom stitching method of areal surface data for high precision and large area measurement
Authors: Lee Dong-Hyeok , Kim Min-Gyu , Lee Seoung Hwan , Cho Nahm Gyoo
Published: September 2014

In this research, a five-degree of freedom (5-d.o.f.) stitching method is proposed which is implemented by calculating the 5-d.o.f. relative position and orientation between small areas of 3D profile data acquired with high resolution. The relative position and orientation is calculated from the data of the overlap area for adjacent measured areas by using the least squares method and the cross correlation function. Furthermore, a data synchronizing algorithm is also proposed for the case in which a specimen is measured by different instruments. To verify practical application of the stitching method and the synchronizing algorithm, a multi-probe optical measuring instrument was developed.
Trying to Make Things Right
Authors: Senteio Charles , Veinot Tiffany
Published: September 2014

Adherence to treatment recommendations for chronic diseases is notoriously low across all patient populations. But African American patients, who are more likely to live in low-income neighborhoods and to have multiple chronic conditions, are even less likely to follow medical recommendations. Yet we know little about their contextually embedded, adherence-related experiences. We interviewed individuals ( n = 37) with at least two of the following conditions: hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Using an “invisible work” theoretical framework, we outline the adherence work that arose in patients’ common life circumstances. We found five types: constantly searching for better care, stretching medications, eating what I know, keeping myself alive, and trying to make it right. Adherence work was effortful, challenging, and addressed external contingencies present in high-poverty African American neighborhoods. This work was invisible within the health care system because participants lacked ongoing, trusting relationships with providers and rarely discussed challenges with them.
Local Discourse on Antiretrovirals and the Lived Experience of Women Living With HIV/AIDS in Thailand
Authors: Liamputtong Pranee , Haritavorn Niphattra , Kiatying-Angsulee Niyada
Published: September 2014

Antiretrovirals (ARVs) have been seen as life-saving for HIV-positive people. However, ARVs have a darker side. Since 2000, many HIV-positive people in Thailand have received ARV treatments, but the understanding of ARVs and practices of medication-taking among HIV-positive women have not received much attention. We discuss local discourses employed by HIV-positive women and health work by these individuals in their attempts to adhere to ARVs restrictions. The local discourse of ARVs was ya tan rok AIDS “medications that could resist HIV/AIDS.” ARVs provided hope for the women. Although the women were affected by the side effects of ARVs, they continued to take their medication to be able to live longer and perform their duties as mothers and carers. They were more concerned about the practice of medication-taking. Understanding why these women were adherent to their ARVs offers insights into the social impact of these ARVs on their lives.
Challenges and Diversity Issues Working With Multilingual and Bilingual Couples and Families
Authors: Softas-Nall Lia , Cardona Betty , Barritt Julie
Published: September 2014

The United States continues to become linguistically more diverse every year, with currently 21% of the population speaking a language other than English in the home. Multilingualism/bilingualism is often documented as a component of cultural diversity, yet there is limited literature of how this impacts the dynamics of couples and family therapy. Multilingualism/bilingualism can be an enriching experience for couples and families, and it can raise unique dynamics in the therapeutic process. This can be especially challenging for the monolingual clinician who is working within a multilingual system and trying to navigate cultural diversity. Thus, clinicians ought to: (a) be aware of personal assumptions and biases, (b) assume a nonjudgmental/curious stance to multilingualism, and (c) discuss with the couple/family how the use of language impacts their relationship. The purpose of this article is to distinctly identify the unique dynamics of multilingual/bilingual couples and families; implications for couples and family counselors are also discussed.
Achilles Tendons Hypertrophy in Response to High Loading Training
Authors: Milgrom Yael , Milgrom Charles , Altaras Talya , Globus Opher , Zeltzer Ehud , Finestone Aharon S.
Published: September 2014

Background:

Whether the human Achilles tendon undergoes hypertrophic changes as measured by an increase in cross-sectional area, in response to endurance training exercise remains in question. We investigated the hypothesis that transition from civilian life through 6 months of elite infantry training would induce adaptive Achilles tendon hypertrophy.

Methods:

Seventy-two new elite infantry recruits had the cross-sectional area of their Achilles tendons measured at a point 2.5 cm proximal to the Achilles insertion by ultrasound before beginning elite infantry training. Measurements were repeated by the same ultrasonographer for those recruits who were still in the training program at 6 months. Prior to beginning the study the intraobserver reliability of the ultrasonographer’s Achilles tendon measurements was calculated (intraclass correlation coefficient = .96). Fifty-five recruits completed 6 months of training.

Results:

The mean cross-sectional area of their right Achilles tendon increased from 47.0 ± 11.2 to 50.2 ± 9.6 mm2 ( P = .037) and the left Achilles tendon from 47.2 ± 8.9 to 51.1 ± 8.3 mm2 ( P = .013). The change in cross-sectional area did not correlate with subject height, weight, prior sport history, or jumping and running abilities.

Conclusions:

An abrupt stimulus of 6 months of elite infantry training was adequate to induce hypertrophic changes in the Achilles tendon. This is the first human prospective study showing an increase in the Achilles tendon cross-sectional area in response to rigorous endurance type training. The finding supports the hypothesis that the Achilles tendon in response to sufficiently high and sustained loading can remodel its morphological properties and thereby strengthen itself.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, etiology study.
Remembering Rodney King
Authors: Maurantonio Nicole
Published: September 2014

On June 17, 2012, journalists reported the death of Rodney King, the black motorist whose 1991 beating by several white Los Angeles police officers was captured on video by citizen journalist George Holliday. This essay argues that journalistic mythologizing of Rodney King as a victim of circumstance and journalism as simultaneous hero echoed existing narratives of civil rights history that largely strip black people of agency. In so doing, journalists proffered a larger cultural narrative of racial reconciliation and progress, while recoding King’s life in accordance with other pre-existing, racialized scripts.
A randomized controlled trial of cognitive behaviour therapy to improve glycaemic control and psychosocial wellbeing in adolescents with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Serlachius Anna S , Scratch Shannon E , Northam Elisabeth A , Frydenberg Erica , Lee Katherine J , Cameron Fergus J
Published: September 2014

We evaluated a cognitive behaviour therapy–based programme to improve glycaemic control and psychosocial wellbeing in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. A total of 147 adolescents aged 13–16 years were randomized to the intervention ( n = 73) or standard care ( n = 74). The primary outcome was glycaemic control at 3 and 12 months post randomization, and secondary measures were stress, self-efficacy and quality of life. Mixed-effects regression models were used to assess differences in means between groups at each time point. There was little evidence of differences in glycaemic control between groups. However, psychosocial wellbeing improved in the intervention group compared to the control group. Recommendations for future programmes are discussed. The trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12608000368336).
Lesbian and gay youth and the question of labels
Authors: Coleman-Fountain Edmund
Published: September 2014

Studies of non-heterosexual youth show a resistance to sexual labels. The term post-gay has been used to describe an identity undefined by labels, and is presented as evidence of a new sexual fluidity. Drawing on qualitative interviews with self-identified lesbian and gay youth from the north east of England, this article provides a different account of the use of labels. Instead of evidencing the rejection of labels, it shows how lesbian and gay young people use labels but question their meaning, adopting some meanings and resisting others. Questioning labels reflects the negotiation of boundaries of difference, as young people look beyond sexuality to build identities as ‘ordinary’ people.
Girl meets boy: Cross-gender queer sex and the promise of pornography
Authors: Ziv Amalia
Published: September 2014

This article takes a look at an intriguing topos in women’s erotic fiction: cross-gender queer sex, that is, sex between women attracted to women and men attracted to men. I offer a reading of three stories that revolve around this theme, and analyze it both as a manifestation of ‘queer’ as a non-gendered identity formation, and as a product of the adoption of the gay male model of sexual subjectivity in lesbian pornography and lesbian sex culture in general. Finally, I evaluate this topos from the viewpoint of women’s rewriting of fantasy in the field of pornography, and explore its political implications. I argue that while the phantasmatic investment in gay masculinity has played a facilitating role in the articulation of female sexual subjectivity, its drawbacks include leaving the equation of subjectivity and masculinity intact. I conclude that the topos of cross-gender queer sex in pornography by women demonstrates both the promise and the limitations of pornographic resignifications.
‘I help her, she helps me:’ Mexican men performing masculinity through transactional sex
Authors: Wentzell Emily
Published: September 2014

Prior research shows that people assert diverse, context-dependent identities through ‘transactional sex’. Focusing on an urban Mexican setting where both companionate partnering and virility are valued, I examine how older, working-class men experiencing erectile difficulty performed masculinity through exchange-mediated liaisons they viewed as friendships dependent on charitable giving rather than prostitution. Contextualizing their experiences with comparative data from a broader study of men’s experiences with erectile difficulty, I argue that the nature of these relationships enabled men to perform the responsibility and virility locally identified with good masculinity, despite life and health problems that threatened their abilities to do so.
A joint Nordic Interdisciplinary Education Programme in Infection Control: A successful, but short-lived initiative
Authors: Holt Jette , Sorknes Nina K. , Povlsen Lene
Published: September 2014

Introduction: Prevention of healthcare-associated infections and a restrictive antibiotics policy in the Nordic countries have contributed to a low prevalence of multi-drug resistant microorganisms, compared to many other countries. This requires professional competences acquired through education in infection control, both in hospitals and in primary health care. Methods: This paper describes a joint Nordic Interdisciplinary Education Programme in infection control, established at the Nordic School of Public Health NHV (NHV) in 2007. Results: The education programme was considered highly relevant and successful by students and their employers. Conclusions: The paper describes the background and contents of the programme, which may serve as inspiration in the development of future educational initiatives in other countries.
Numerical investigation of micron particle inhalation by standing thermal manikins in horizontal airflows
Authors: Li Xiangdong , Inthavong Kiao , Tu Jiyuan
Published: September 2014

Computational fluid dynamics computations were conducted to investigate the particle inhalation characteristics of a thermal manikin standing in a horizontal airflow with different orientations, leg postures, wind speeds and particle sizes. The computations revealed that only when the manikin’s thermal plume moves into the breathing zone (namely, the manikin is facing the lee side) could the body heat affect the characteristics of particle inhalation. Further computations demonstrated that, when facing the lee side, the manikin’s particle inhalation is highly sensitive to its leg posture. When the legs are separated, air can flow through the gap, causing more particle entrainment into the breathing zone from the lower level. Although the thermal effect of body heat is gradually suppressed with increasing wind speed or particle size, different leg postures have different environmental sensitivities.
Material property models for polyethylene-based conductive blends suitable for PEM fuel cell bipolar plates
Authors: Greenwood P , Thring RH , Chen R
Published: September 2014

Electrical and thermal conductivity models from Mamunya et al. and Kerner’s equation for elastic and flexural modulus have been applied to experimental data to assess model accuracies. Experimental data were gained from a previous study where polyethylene and carbon black, graphite and magnetite composites produced by injection and compression moulding were tested. The electrical conductivity modelling gave accurate fits to the data, though available data were limited and the thermal conductivity modelling produced good fits with R2 values greater than 0.93. The electrical and thermal model exponents were tuned for best fit and used to compare the modelling results with the literature and gain information about conduction mechanisms such as tunnelling and links, nodes and blobs and variations in local filler concentrations. A modified Kerner’s equation to effectively allow for filler type and variations in composite processing was used to improve upon the original equation which modelled modulus behaviour based on the pure matrix. The new equation proved to be a better predictor of elastic modulus than flexural modulus.
The Comparative Experiences of Women in Control
Authors: Mitchell Suzanne E. , Mako Morgan , Sadikova Ekaterina , Barnes Linda , Stone Abriella , Rosal Milagros C. , Wiecha John
Published: September 2014

Purpose:

The purpose was to characterize participants’ experiences of a diabetes self-management (DSM) education program delivered via a virtual world (VW) versus a face-to-face (F2F) format.

Methods:

Participants included a randomly selected sample of participants who completed the Women in Control study. Four focus groups were conducted with 32 participants. Four researchers coded the data and conducted a qualitative thematic analysis.

Results:

Four overarching themes were identified. Three domains apply to both VW and F2F formats, including (1) the value of DSM knowledge gained, (2) cultivating DSM attitudes and skills, and (3) the value of peer-derived social support. The fourth domain is labeled positive technological development for DSM (VW condition only). VW and F2F groups both reported mastery of DSM knowledge, attitudes, and skills, and there were no differences in peer-derived social support between groups. The technological aspects of VW participation afforded VW participants a unique sense of personal agency and diabetes self-efficacy not reported by F2F participants.

Conclusions:

DSM education in a VW is feasible and educational outcomes are similar to a F2F classroom experience. Furthermore, learning DSM skills in a VW offers unique advantages in supporting personal agency for health behavior change. Further research is warranted.
“So it’s like, do you like Jeff a lot or, I mean…”
Authors: Kerrick Madeleine R. , Thorne Avril
Published: September 2014

Despite Erikson’s (1968) proposal that identity is a psychosocial task, most existing research in developmental psychology has conceptualized personal identity as an individual, “internalized” phenomenon. The present case study aimed to elucidate how emerging adult friends co-construct personal identities by multiply positioning themselves while dialoguing about their romantic and sexual desires. The participating friends were two White, heterosexual, 19-year-old women, college roommates. We combined microanalysis of positioning in their conversation with analysis of the friends’ individual interviews about their recorded conversation. This dual perspective provided a situated understanding of identity positioning on several planes—vis-à-vis the interactional partner (e.g., She needs support, I’m supporting), the romantic partner under discussion (e.g., I’m mature, he’s immature), and dating relationships generally (e.g., okay with casual relationships). Findings are discussed in relation to theories of personal identity development and the interlocutor’s role in negotiating the developmental tasks of identity and intimacy.
Idiosyncratic Valproic Acid–Induced Hepatotoxicity in a Sickle Cell Patient
Authors: Cimino Christo , Charneski Lisa , Kumar Lisa
Published: September 2014

Objective: Suspected idiosyncratic valproic acid–induced hepatotoxicity in a sickle cell patient with chronic migraines is reported. Case Summary: A 32-year-old female with a medical history significant for sickle cell anemia and cerebral palsy was admitted to an inpatient medicine service for moderate to severe right flank pain with worsening transaminitis and hyperbilirubinemia. The patient reported taking valproic acid for approximately 6 years for the prevention of chronic migraines. An extensive workup was inconclusive for an etiology of underlying liver disease for the presenting symptoms. Valproic acid was discontinued on hospitalization day 3, resulting in a rapid improvement of the signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity. Discussion: Several mechanisms of idiopathic valproic acid–induced hepatotoxicity have been proposed, including the accumulation of hepatotoxic metabolites, induction of oxidative stress, and deficiency of l-carnitine. Drug-induced hepatotoxicity is typically confirmed following improvement on withdrawal of the suspected agent and exclusion of any underlying etiologies. For this particular patient case, the Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences scale was also used to evaluate the probability of the hepatotoxicity being drug related. Objective causality assessment with this scale revealed a probable adverse drug event. Conclusion: Idiopathic valproic acid–induced hepatotoxicity was suspected in a 32-year-old female with a history of sickle cell anemia and cerebral palsy following improvement of transaminitis and abdominal pain on discontinuation of valproic acid therapy and exclusion of an underlying etiology. This case reveals the clinical significance of prompt pharmacist identification and management of the potential adverse drug event.
Epigenetic Regulation of Spinal Cord Gene Expression Controls Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia
Authors: Liang De-Yong , Sun Yuan , Shi Xiao-You , Sahbaie Peyman , Clark J David
Published: September 2014

Background:

The long term use of opioids for the treatment of pain leads to a group of maladaptations which includes opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH). OIH typically resolves within few days after cessation of morphine treatment in mice but is prolonged for weeks if histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity is inhibited during opioid treatment. The present work seeks to identify gene targets supporting the epigenetic effects responsible for OIH prolongation.

Results:

Mice were treated with morphine according to an ascending dose protocol. Some mice also received the selective HDAC inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) additionally. Chronic morphine treatment with simultaneous HDAC inhibition enhanced OIH, and several spinal cord genes were up-regulated. The expression of Bdnf (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and Pdyn (Prodynorphin) were most closely related to the observed behavioral changes. ChIP (Chromatin immuoprecipation) assays demonstrated that promoter regions of Pdyn and Bdnf were strongly associated with aceH3K9 (Acetylated histone H3 Lysine9) after morphine and SAHA treatment. Furthermore, morphine treatment caused an increase in spinal BDNF and dynorphin levels, and these levels were further increased in SAHA treated mice. The selective TrkB (tropomyosin-receptor-kinase) antagonist ANA-12 reduced OIH when given one or seven days after cessation of morphine. Treatment with the selective kappa opioid receptor antagonist nor-BNI also reduced established OIH. The co-administration of either receptor antagonist agent daily with morphine resulted in attenuation of hyperalgesia present one day after cessation of treatment. Additionally, repeated morphine exposure induced a rise in BDNF expression that was associated with an increased number of BDNF+ cells in the spinal cord dorsal horn, showing strong co-localization with aceH3K9 in neuronal cells. Lastly, spinal application of low dose BDNF or Dynorphin A after resolution of OIH produced mechanical hypersensitivity, with no effect in controls.

Conclusions:

The present study identified two genes whose expression is regulated by epigenetic mechanisms during morphine exposure. Treatments aimed at preventing the acetylation of histones or blocking BDNF and dynorphin signaling may reduce OIH and improve long-term pain using opioids.
Two single nucleotide polymorphisms in the von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor gene in Taiwanese with renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Wen-Chung , Tsou Mei-Hua , Chen Hui-Ju , Hsu Wei-Fang , Lai Yen-Chein
Published: September 2014

Background

Renal cell carcinoma, a common malignant tumor arising from the kidney, occurs in 3.62 and 1.95 cases per one hundred thousand people among men and women, respectively, in Taiwan each year. Approximately 80% of cases are classified as clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. Inactivation of the von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor gene has been implicated in the tumorigenic pathway of renal cell carcinoma. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms, rs779805 and rs1642742, located in the promoter and 3′ untranslated regions of the von Hippel-Lindau gene are informative and implicated in the occurrence of renal cell carcinoma worldwide. The aim of this study is to clarify whether these polymorphisms are associated with renal cell carcinoma in Taiwanese. Genomic DNA was isolated from normal and tumor tissues of 19 renal cell carcinoma patients. The samples were screened for allelic polymorphisms by restriction fragment length polymorphism with BsaJ I and Acc I digestion. Reconfirmation was carried out by direct sequencing.

Results

Consistent with Knudson’s two-hit theory, AA to AG somatic mutations were observed in rs779805. In addition, loss of heterozygosity in both rs779805 and rs1642742 was demonstrated in 10 out of 15 RCC patients aged 50 or over. The G allele or AG heterozygote frequencies at these two loci were much higher in patient germline DNA when compared with the control group. After adjusting for age, the frequency of the G allele in both loci was much higher for late onset renal cell carcinoma in the Taiwanese population.

Conclusions

Our current results confirmed that the existence of G allele in both rs779805 and rs1642742 in the von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor gene is of importance in renal cell carcinoma tumorigenesis. However, more comprehensive and detailed research is needed to address the clinical relevance. Larger sample size is required to determine the exact power of correlation between these two genetic polymorphisms and renal cell carcinoma.
Role of pill-taking, expectation and therapeutic alliance in the placebo response in clinical trials for major depression
Authors: Leuchter Andrew F. , Hunter Aimee M. , Tartter Molly , Cook Ian A.
Published: September 2014

Background

Pill-taking, expectations and therapeutic alliance may account for much of the benefit of medication and placebo treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD).

Aims

To examine the effects of medication, placebo and supportive care on treatment outcome, and the relationships of expectations and therapeutic alliance to improvement.

Method

A total of 88 participants were randomised to 8 weeks of treatment with supportive care alone or combined with double-blind treatment with placebo or antidepressant medication. Expectations of medication effectiveness, general treatment effectiveness and therapeutic alliance were measured (trial registration at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00200902).

Results

Medication or placebo plus supportive care were not significantly different but had significantly better outcome than supportive care alone. Therapeutic alliance predicted response to medication and placebo; expectations of medication effectiveness at enrolment predicted only placebo response.

Conclusions

Pill treatment yielded better outcome than supportive care alone. Medication expectations uniquely predicted placebo treatment outcome and were formed by time of enrolment, suggesting that they were shaped by prior experiences outside the clinical trial.
Limits to sustained energy intake. XXII. Reproductive performance of two selected mouse lines with different thermal conductance
Authors: Speakman John R. , Al-Jothery Aqeel H. , Król Elżbieta , Hawkins James , Chetoui Aurore , Saint-Lambert Alexander , Gamo Yuko , Shaw Suzanne C. , Valencak Teresa , Bünger Lutz , Hill William , Vaanholt Lobke , Hambly Catherine
Published: September 2014

Maximal sustained energy intake (SusEI) appears limited, but the factors imposing the limit are disputed. We studied reproductive performance in two lines of mice selected for high and low food intake (MH and ML, respectively), and known to have large differences in thermal conductance (29% higher in the MH line at 21°C). When these mice raised their natural litters, their metabolisable energy intake significantly increased over the first 13 days of lactation and then reached a plateau. At peak lactation, MH mice assimilated on average 45.3 % more energy than ML mice (222.9±7.1 and 153.4±12.5 kJ day-1, N=49 and 24, respectively). Moreover, MH mice exported on average 62.3 kJ day-1 more energy as milk than ML mice (118.9±5.3 and 56.6±5.4 kJ day-1, N= subset of 32 and 21, respectively). The elevated milk production of MH mice enabled them to wean litters (65.2±2.1 g) that were on average 50.2% heavier than litters produced by ML mothers (43.4±3.0 g), and pups that were on average 27.2% heavier (9.9±0.2 and 7.8±0.2 g, respectively). Lactating mice in both lines had significantly longer and heavier guts compared to non-reproductive mice. However, inconsistent with the central limit hypothesis, the ML mice had significantly longer and heavier intestines than MH mice. An experiment where the mice raised litters of the opposing line demonstrated that lactation performance was not limited by offspring growth capacity. Our findings are consistent with the idea that the SusEI at peak lactation is constrained by the capacity of the mothers to dissipate body heat.
Case Report: Testicular artery pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Parker William P , Nangia Ajay K
Published: September 2014

This is a case of an unusual cause of a testicular mass and the clinical features associated with its presentation and management.  The patient presented with testicular pain and was found to have a testicular mass on ultrasound with a central 1cm anechoic region with arterial wave-form concerning for a pseudoaneurysm. The patient underwent orchiectomy with resolution of his symptoms. This case highlights the presentation of testicular artery pseudoaneurysm and outcome following orchiectomy.
Influential Factors and User Behavior of Mobile Reading
Authors: Zhou Yi , Wei Jianliang , Meng Fei , Jiang Fen
Published: September 2014

With the popularization of mobile Internet and smart terminals, mobile reading with diversity and mobility has become a hot issue in the industry and academia. This article comes up with a hypothetical model of mobile reading user acceptance behavior based on the technology acceptance model and unified theory of acceptance and use of technology and conducts an analysis of the reliability and validity of questionnaire data. Based on this, the model fitness is analyzed as well as the path hypotheses testing. We find that user-perceived ease of use greatly influences perceived usefulness (path coefficient=0.841), and user attitude (path coefficient=0.860) and behavioral intention (path coefficient=0.154) are significantly impacted by perceived usefulness. The impact of social influence on user attitude toward using mobile reading is significant (path coefficient=0.341), but the influence of perceived payment is not obvious. The moderating effect of living habit is not obvious because the absolute value of the critical ratio is under 2.58 with a significance level of 0.01.
Distributed non-singular dislocation technique for cracks in strain gradient elasticity
Authors: Mousavi S. Mahmoud , Paavola Juha , Baroudi Djebar
Published: September 2014

The mode III fracture analysis of a cracked graded plane in the framework of classical, first strain gradient, and second strain gradient elasticity is presented in this paper. Solutions to the problem of screw dislocation in graded materials are available in the literature. These solutions include various frameworks such as classical elasticity, and the first strain and second strain gradient elasticity theories. One of the applications of dislocations is the analysis of a cracked medium through distributed dislocation technique. In this article, this technique is used for the mode III fracture analysis of a graded medium in classical elasticity, which results in a system of Cauchy singular integral equations for multiple interacting cracks. Furthermore, the technique is modified for gradient elasticity. Owing to the regularization of the classical singularity, a system of non-singular integral equations is obtained in gradient elasticity. A plane with one crack is studied, and the stress distribution in classical elasticity is compared with those in gradient elasticity theories. The effects of the internal lengths, introduced in gradient elasticity theories, are investigated. Additionally, a plane with two cracks is studied to elaborate the interactions of multiple cracks in both the classical and gradient theories.
Structural relaxation around Cr3+ at the Na(Al1-x
Cr
x
)P2O7 octahedral site: an XRPD and EAS study
Authors: Ardit Matteo , Dondi Michele , Zanelli Chiara , Cruciani Giuseppe
Published: September 2014

The isovalent substitution of chromium for aluminium at octahedral site along the Na(Al1-x
Cr
x
)P2O7 pyrophosphate solid solution has been investigated by means of the combined application of X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and electronic absorption spectroscopy (EAS). In agreement with the structural refinements, deconvolution of the optical spectra revealed a progressive decreasing of the crystal field strength parameter 10Dq moving toward the NaCrP2O7 end-member, meaning that the local chromium–oxygen bond distance increased along the join with the amount of chromium. The calculated structural relaxation coefficient around the substituent ion Cr3+ was ε=0.97 (i.e., very close to that predicted by the Hard Spheres model). A detailed comparison with compact crystal structures (i.e., perovskite, garnet, spinel, clinopyroxene, and corundum) as well as with other pyrophosphate compounds with II-NaMP2O7 structure-type (with M=Al, Cr, Fe, V, Ti, Mo and In) highlighted that compounds belonging to the Na(Al1-x
Cr
x
)P2O7 solid solution – characterized by a network connectivity which is basically a framework topology – undergo a structural relaxation that is confined within the first shell (i.e., occurs at the octahedral site), while P2O7 dimers act as rigid units.
Large Forgings: Microstructural Evolution and Residual Stresses Due to Quenching Treatments—A Combined Numerical and Experimental Approach
Authors: Boniardi Marco , Guagliano Mario , Casaroli Andrea , Andreotti Riccardo , Ballerini Filippo
Published: September 2014

Based on numerical and experimental data, an FEM model was implemented to simulate quench treatments on large forging components. After experimental validation of convection coefficient laws between water and component surface, time–temperature curves were determined for a large forged piece for different corss section of the component itself. Then superimposing these curves to the continuous cooling transformation diagram for the material, it was possible to identify the microstructural constituents of the steel after quenching. The component residual stress field was obtained by implementing the volumetric expansion law due to the phase transition during cooling. The ability to simulate the heat treatment of heavy size parts must be considered very useful due to quickly managing of all variables that govern the problem (initial and final temperatures, holding times, quenching mode, size, and geometry of components) and the possibility to predict final characteristics of the workpiece.
Modeling and Simulation of Carbide Precipitation During Tempering of Alloy Tool Steel
Authors: Deng Xiao-Hu , Ju Dong-Ying
Published: September 2014

In order to study the carbide transformation during tempering, a modified model has been proposed to simulate the phase composition and mechanical properties during the tempering process in tool steels. The model considers the simultaneous precipitation reactions of several carbides. The precipitation sequence and volume fraction of a carbide can be simulated quantitatively. In order to validate the model, we employed it to simulate the tempering process of SKD11 steel. The predicted volume fraction of retained austenite showed good agreement with measurement results. Furthermore, the calculated carbide results agreed well with the theoretical conclusions. The agreement indicates that the model is effective for simulation of the tempering process in tool steel.
Influence of Additive Chemistry on the Physical, Chemical, and Cooling Properties of Quenching Oils
Authors: Matijević Božidar , Pedišić Ljiljana
Published: September 2014

Quenching, the most common method of hardening metals, involves continuous cooling from a given austenitization temperature to achieve full transformation into martensite. Thus, optimal mechanical properties are obtained. The quenching media contains a base oil and different types of additives depending on application requirements. The cooling rate mainly depends on the thermal characteristics of metals, section thickness of workpieces, and heat-removal properties of the quenching medium. For the base oil, it is possible to use petroleum oils, synthetic oils, and natural oils separately or in combination. Petroleum base oils are widely used because of their thermal-oxidative stability advantages in comparison to natural oils, or lower prices in comparison to synthetic oils. There are numerous compounds available for potential use based on their functional properties. Environmental and safety requirements also exhibit a strong influence on additive selection. For this reason, the current use ofbarium-containing additives must be replaced with less harmful compounds. Petroleum basestocks should be replaced by renewable basestocks that are biodegradable, as is the current general trend in lubricant development. By changing the composition of quenching oils, base oils, and/or additives, the heat transfer characteristics are also changed. In this study, quenching oils with different types of additives are tested and the results regarding their physical and chemical properties as well as cooling characteristics are presented. Cooling curves of the tested oils have been evaluated according to ISO 9950:1995.
Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition spectrum quantification and its efficacy in deciphering survival and drug responses of cancer patients
Authors: Tan Tuan Zea , Miow Qing Hao , Miki Yoshio , Noda Tetsuo , Mori Seiichi , Huang Ruby Yun‐Ju , Thiery Jean Paul
Published: September 2014

Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a reversible and dynamic process hypothesized to be co‐opted by carcinoma during invasion and metastasis. Yet, there is still no quantitative measure to assess the interplay between EMT and cancer progression. Here, we derived a method for universal EMT scoring from cancer‐specific transcriptomic EMT signatures of ovarian, breast, bladder, lung, colorectal and gastric cancers. We show that EMT scoring exhibits good correlation with previously published, cancer‐specific EMT signatures. This universal and quantitative EMT scoring was used to establish an EMT spectrum across various cancers, with good correlation noted between cell lines and tumours. We show correlations between EMT and poorer disease‐free survival in ovarian and colorectal, but not breast, carcinomas, despite previous notions. Importantly, we found distinct responses between epithelial‐ and mesenchymal‐like ovarian cancers to therapeutic regimes administered with or without paclitaxel in vivo and demonstrated that mesenchymal‐like tumours do not always show resistance to chemotherapy. EMT scoring is thus a promising, versatile tool for the objective and systematic investigation of EMT roles and dynamics in cancer progression, treatment response and survival.