bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic semantic locking
Authors: Golan-Gueta Guy , Ramalingam G. , Sagiv Mooly , Yahav Eran
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we consider concurrent programs in which the shared state consists of instances of linearizable ADTs (abstract data types). We develop a novel automated approach to concurrency control that addresses a common need: the need to atomically execute a code fragment, which may contain multiple ADT operations on multiple ADT instances. In our approach, each ADT implements ADT-specific semantic locking operations that serve to exploit the semantics of ADT operations. We develop a synthesis algorithm that automatically inserts calls to these locking operations in a set of given code fragments (in a client program) to ensure that these code fragments execute atomically without deadlocks, and without rollbacks.

We have implemented the synthesis algorithm and several general-purpose ADTs with semantic locking. We have applied the synthesis algorithm to several Java programs that use these ADTs. Our results show that our approach enables efficient and scalable synchronization.
Can C++ be made as safe as SPARK?
Authors: Crocker David
Published: December 2014

SPARK offers a way to develop formally-verified software in a language (Ada) that is designed with safety in mind and is further restricted by the SPARK language subset. However, much critical embedded software is developed in C or C++. We look at whether and how benefits similar to those offered by the SPARK language subset and associated tools can be brought to a C++ development environment.
Formal semantics for the PACEMAKER system specification
Authors: Larson Brian R.
Published: December 2014

This paper formally expresses the timing behavior of a cardiac pacemaker as defined in the PACEMAKER System Specification as understood by its principal author.

The PACEMAKER System Specification was publicly released by Boston Scientific to provide a real-world subject for application of formal methods in response to Jim Woodcock's request at FM2006 for an industrial Grand Challenge problem. PACEMAKER's use for purposes other than formal methods has been surprising in its variety. Most ambitious is the Software Certification Consortium's mock regulatory submission, PACEMAKER Grand Challenge, to show that a product with safety-critical software is in fact safe. McMaster University is designing a second-generation hardware platform to execute formally-verified software during system feature test validation with an electrical heart simulator to show correct behavior.

This paper uses first-order predicates, extended with a simple temporal operator, to formally express what the principal author understands to be "correct" behavior defined in PACEMAKER.
Specification of generic APIs, or
Authors: Bagge Anya Helene , Haveraaen Magne
Published: December 2014

Specification based on Floyd-Hoare logic, using pre- and post-conditions, is common in languages aimed at high integrity software. Such pre/postcondition specifications are geared towards verification of code. While this specification technique has proven quite successful in the past 40 years, it has limitations when applied to API specification, particularly specification of generic interfaces.

API-oriented design and genericity is of particular importance in modern large-scale software development. In this situation, algebraic specification techniques have a significant advantage. Unlike pre/post-based specification, which deals with the inputs and outputs of one operation at a time, algebraic specification deals with the relationships between the different operations in an API, which is needed in the specification of generic APIs.
The rust language
Authors: Matsakis Nicholas D. , Klock Felix S.
Published: December 2014

Rust
is a new programming language for developing reliable and efficient systems. It is designed to support concurrency and parallelism in building applications and libraries that take full advantage of modern hardware. Rust's static type system is safe
1
and expressive and provides strong guarantees about isolation, concurrency, and memory safety.

Rust also offers a clear performance model, making it easier to predict and reason about program efficiency. One important way it accomplishes this is by allowing fine-grained control over memory representations, with direct support for stack allocation and contiguous record storage. The language balances such controls with the absolute requirement for safety: Rust's type system and runtime guarantee the absence of data races, buffer overflows, stack overflows, and accesses to uninitialized or deallocated memory.
Investigation of physiological properties of nerves and muscles using electromyography
Authors: Roe Seán M. , Johnson Christopher D. , Tansey Etain A.
Published: November 2014

The measurement and representation of the electrical activity of muscles [electromyography (EMG)] have a long history from the Victorian Era until today. Currently, EMG has uses both as a research tool, in noninvasively recording muscle activation, and clinically in the diagnosis and assessment of nerve and muscle disease and injury as well as in assessing the recovery of neuromuscular function after nerve damage. In the present report, we describe the use of a basic EMG setup in our teaching laboratories to demonstrate some of these current applications. Our practical also illustrates some fundamental physiological and structural properties of nerves and muscles. Learning activities include 1) displaying the recruitment of muscle fibers with increasing force development; 2) the measurement of conduction velocity of motor nerves; 3) the assessment of reflex delay and demonstration of Jendrassik's maneuver; and 4) a Hoffman reflex experiment that illustrates the composition of mixed nerves and the differential excitability thresholds of fibers within the same nerve, thus aiding an understanding of the reflex nature of muscle control. We can set up the classes at various levels of inquiry depending on the needs/professional requirements of the class. The results can then provide an ideal platform for a discovery learning session/tutorial on how the central nervous system controls muscles, giving insights on how supraspinal control interacts with reflexes to give smooth, precise muscular activation.
Combining simulated patients and simulators: pilot study of hybrid simulation in teaching cardiac auscultation
Authors: Friederichs Hendrik , Weissenstein Anne , Ligges Sandra , Möller David , Becker Jan C. , Marschall Bernhard
Published: November 2014

Auscultation torsos are widely used to teach position-dependent heart sounds and murmurs. To provide a more realistic teaching experience, both whole body auscultation mannequins and torsos have been used in clinical examination skills training at the Medical Faculty of the University of Muenster since the winter term of 2008–2009. This training has since been extended by simulated patients, which are normal, healthy subjects who have undergone attachment of the electronic components of the auscultation mannequins to their chests to mimic pathophysiological conditions (“hybrid models”). The acceptance of this new learning method was examined in the present pilot study. In total, 143 students in their second preclinical year who were participating in auscultation training were randomized into an intervention group (hybrid models) and a control group (auscultation mannequins). One hundred forty-two (99.3%) of these students completed a self-assessment Likert-scale questionnaire regarding different teaching approaches (where 1 = “very poor” to 100 = “very good”). The questionnaire focused on the “value of learning” of different teaching approaches. Direct comparison showed that students evaluated the hybrid models to be significantly more effective than the auscultation mannequins (median: 83 vs. 64, P < 0.001). The cardiac auscultation training was generally assessed positively (median: 88). Additionally, verbal feedback was obtained from simulated patients and tutors (trained students who had successfully passed the course a few semesters earlier). Personal feedback showed high satisfaction from student tutors and simulated patients. Hybrid simulators for teaching cardiac auscultation elucidated positive responses from students, tutors, and simulated patients.
Positive impact of integrating histology and physiology teaching at a medical school in China
Authors: Sherer Renslow , Wan Yu , Dong Hongmei , Cooper Brian , Morgan Ivy , Peng Biwen , Liu Jun , Wang Lin , Xu David
Published: November 2014

To modernize its stagnant, traditional curriculum and pedagogy, the Medical School of Wuhan University in China adopted (with modifications) the University of Chicago's medical curriculum model. The reform effort in basic sciences was integrating histology and physiology into one course, increasing the two subjects' connection to clinical medicine, and applying new pedagogies and assessment methods. This study assessed the results of the reform by comparing the attitudes and academic achievements of students in the reform curriculum ( n = 41) and their traditional curriculum peers ( n = 182). An attitude survey was conducted to obtain students' views of their respective histology and physiology instruction. Survey items covered lectures, laboratory teaching, case analyses and small-group case discussions, assessment of students, and overall quality of the courses and instruction. A knowledge test consisting of questions from three sources was given to measure students' mastery of topics that they had learned. Results showed that reform curriculum students were rather satisfied with their course and new teaching methods in most cases. When these students' attitudes were compared with those of their traditional curriculum peers, several significant differences favoring the reform were identified regarding physiology teaching. No other significant difference was found for physiology or histology teaching. Reform curriculum students outperformed their peers on four of five subcategories of the knowledge test questions. These findings support the benefits of integration and state-of-the-art teaching methods. Our study may offer lessons to medical schools in China and other countries whose medical education is in need of change.
History of hepatic bile formation: old problems, new approaches
Authors: Javitt Norman B.
Published: November 2014

Studies of hepatic bile formation reported in 1958 established that it was an osmotically generated water flow. Intravenous infusion of sodium taurocholate established a high correlation between hepatic bile flow and bile acid excretion. Secretin, a hormone that stimulates bicarbonate secretion, was also found to increase hepatic bile flow. The sources of the water entering the biliary system with these two stimuli were differentiated by the use of mannitol. An increase in its excretion parallels the increase in bile flow in response to bile acids but not secretin, which led to a quantitative distinction between canalicular and ductular water flow. The finding of aquaglyceroporin-9 in the basolateral surface of the hepatocyte accounted for the rapid entry of mannitol into hepatocytes and its exclusion from water movement in the ductules where aquaporin-1 is present. Electron microscopy demonstrated that bile acids generate the formation of vesicles that contain lecithin and cholesterol after their receptor-mediated canalicular transport. Biophysical studies established that the osmotic effect of bile acids varies with their concentration and also with the proportion of mono-, di-, and trihydroxy bile acids and provides a basis for understanding their physiological effects. Because of the varying osmotic effect of bile acids, it is difficult to quantify bile acid independent flow generated by other solutes, such as glutathione, which enters the biliary system. Monohydroxy bile acids, by markedly increasing aggregation number, severely reduce water flow. Developing biomarkers for the noninvasive assessment of normal hepatic bile flow remains an elusive goal that merits further study.
The flipped exam: creating an environment in which students discover for themselves the concepts and principles we want them to learn
Authors: Lujan Heidi L. , DiCarlo Stephen E.
Published: November 2014

Students are naturally curious and inquisitive with powerful intrinsic motives to probe, learn, and understand their world. Accordingly, class activities must capitalize on this inherently energetic and curious nature so that learning becomes a lifelong activity where students take initiative for learning, are skilled in learning, and want to learn new things. This report describes a student-centered class activity, the “flipped exam,” designed to achieve this goal. The flipped exam was a collaborative, group effort, and learning was interactive. It included a significant proportion (∼30–35%) of material not covered in class. This required students to actively search for content and context, dynamically making connections between what they knew and what they learned, grappling with complexity, uncertainty, and ambiguity, and finally discovering answers to important questions. Accordingly, the need or desire to know was the catalyst for meaningful learning. Student assessment was determined by behavioral noncognitive parameters that were based on the observation of the student and the student's work as well as cognitive parameters (i.e., the student's score on the examination). It is our view that the flipped exam provided a student-centered activity in which students discovered, because of the need to know and opportunities for discussion, the important concepts and principles we wanted them to learn.
Resolving an 80-yr-old controversy: the beginning of the modern era of renal physiology
Authors: Jamison Rex L.
Published: November 2014

Marcello Malpighi discovered the glomerulus that bears his name in the 17th century, but it was not until the middle of the 19th century, in 1842, that William Bowman in London published his studies of the histological structure of the glomerulus and proposed that urine formation begins with glomerular secretion. At nearly the same time in Marburg, Carl Ludwig, unaware of Bowman's findings, proposed that urine formation begins with glomerular filtration followed by tubule reabsorption. The controversy lasted 80 yr. Prominent investigators weighed in on both sides. Rudolph Heidenhain's findings in 1874 swung the pendulum toward Bowman's theory until Arthur Cushny published his book, The Secretion of Urine, in 1917, in which he found the evidence insufficient to prove either theory. In 1921, a young physician, Joseph Wearn, began his postresidency training in the laboratory of Alfred N. Richards. He read Cushny's book and learned how to expose the glomerulus of a living frog. Richards proposed that Wearn use that experimental preparation to inject epinephrine into the glomerulus. Wearn proposed a different experiment: instead of using injection, collect fluid from the glomerulus and analyze it. Richards agreed, and the landmark results of that experiment, published in 1924, settled the controversy. The modern era of renal physiology was born.
PBMCs express a transcriptome signature predictor of oxygen uptake responsiveness to endurance exercise training in men
Authors: Dias Rodrigo Gonçalves , Silva Michelle Sabrina Moreira , Duarte Nubia Esteban , Bolani Wladimir , Alves Cleber Renê , Junior José Ribeiro Lemos , da Silva Jeferson Luis , de Oliveira Patrícia Alves , Alves Guilherme Barreto , de Oliveira Edilamar Menezes , Rocha Cristiane Souza , Marsiglia Julia Daher Carneiro , Negrao Carlos Eduardo , Krieger Eduardo Moacyr , Krieger José Eduardo , Pereira Alexandre Costa
Published: December 2014

Peripheral blood cells are an accessible environment in which to visualize exercise-induced alterations in global gene expression patterns. We aimed to identify a peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) signature represented by alterations in gene expression, in response to a standardized endurance exercise training protocol. In addition, we searched for molecular classifiers of the variability in oxygen uptake (V̇o2). Healthy untrained policemen recruits ( n = 13, 25 ± 3 yr) were selected. Peak V̇o2 (measured by cardiopulmonary exercise testing) and total RNA from PBMCs were obtained before and after 18 wk of running endurance training (3 times/wk, 60 min). Total RNA was used for whole genome expression analysis using Affymetrix GeneChip Human Gene 1.0 ST. Data were normalized by the robust multiarray average algorithm. Principal component analysis was used to perform correlations between baseline gene expression and V̇o2peak. A set of 211 transcripts was differentially expressed (ANOVA, P < 0.05 and fold change > 1.3). Functional enrichment analysis revealed that transcripts were mainly related to immune function, cell cycle processes, development, and growth. Baseline expression of 98 and 53 transcripts was associated with the absolute and relative V̇o2peak response, respectively, with a strong correlation ( r > 0.75, P < 0.01), and this panel was able to classify the 13 individuals according to their potential to improve oxygen uptake. A subset of 10 transcripts represented these signatures to a similar extent. PBMCs reveal a transcriptional signature responsive to endurance training. Additionally, a baseline transcriptional signature was associated with changes in V̇o2peak. Results might illustrate the possibility of obtaining molecular classifiers of endurance capacity changes through a minimally invasive blood sampling procedure.
Exercise Hemodynamics and Quality of Life after Aortic Valve Replacement for Aortic Stenosis in the Elderly Using the Hancock II Bioprosthesis
Authors: Long Theodore , Lopez Becky M. , Berberian Christopher , Cunningham Mark J. , Starnes Vaughn A. , Cohen Robbin G.
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim. While aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis can be performed safely in elderly patients, there is a need for hemodynamic and quality of life evaluation to determine the value of aortic valve replacement in older patients who may have age-related activity limitation.Materials and Methods. We conducted a prospective evaluation of patients who underwent aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis with the Hancock II porcine bioprosthesis. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and completed the RAND 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36) preoperatively and six months postoperatively.Results. From 2004 to 2007, 33 patients were enrolled with an average age of 75.3 ± 5.3 years (24 men and 9 women). Preoperatively, 27/33 (82%) were New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Classification 3, and postoperatively 27/33 (82%) were NYHA Functional Classification 1. Patients had a mean predicted maximumVO2(mL/kg/min) of 19.5 ± 4.3 and an actual maxVO2of 15.5 ± 3.9, which was 80% of the predictedVO2. Patients were found to have significant improvements (P≤0.01) in six of the nine SF-36 health parameters.Conclusions. In our sample of elderly patients with aortic stenosis, replacing the aortic valve with a Hancock II bioprosthesis resulted in improved hemodynamics and quality of life.
Bilateral Diffuse Tumorous Pseudoangiomatous Stromal Hyperplasia: A Case of Bilateral Mastectomy in a 29-Year-Old Woman
Authors: Dai Hongyan , Connor Carol , Cui Wei , Gatewood Jason , Fan Fang
Published: December 2014

Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH) is a benign breast lesion commonly encountered as an incidental microscopic finding. However, it can also manifest as a mass-forming lesion (tumorous PASH) capable of recurrence after surgical excision. Most of the previously reported cases of tumorous PASH present as a single dominant mass. Here we reported a rare case of diffuse tumorous PASH involving bilateral breasts clinically mimicking malignancy. A 29-year-old African-American female presented with a one-year history of bilateral breast enlargement and asymmetry. Physical examination revealed multiple palpable nodules in bilateral breasts. Imaging studies demonstrated innumerable homogeneously enhancing masses throughout both breasts, greater on the left, with multiple cysts and edema. Biopsy of the breast nodules demonstrated histopathological changes consistent with PASH. Due to the extent of the lesions and progressive clinical symptoms, decision was made to perform bilateral mastectomy. Macroscopic examination of the bilateral mastectomy specimens revealed markedly enlarged breasts with marked edema and numerous well-defined firm nodules. Microscopic evaluation of the nodules confirmed the diagnosis of PASH. No evidence of malignancy was identified. Recognition of this rare form of PASH is essential for the proper clinical management.
Optical and FT Infrared Absorption Spectra of 3d Transition Metal Ions Doped in NaF-CaF2-B2O3 Glass and Effects of Gamma Irradiation
Authors: Elbatal F. H. A. , Marzouk M. A. , Hamdy Y. M. , ElBatal H. A.
Published: December 2014

Combined optical and FTIR spectroscopy has been employed to investigate the undoped NaF-CaF2-B2O3 glass together with samples containing 0.2% dopant of 3d TM ions before and after gamma irradiation. The optical spectrum of the undoped glass reveals strong UV absorption with two peaks which are related to unavoidable trace iron impurity within the raw materials. Upon gamma irradiation, an induced visible broad band centered at 500 nm is resolved and is related to B-O hole center or nonbridging oxygen hole center. TMs-doped samples exhibit characteristic absorption due to each respective TM ion but with faint colors. Gamma irradiation of TMs-doped samples reveals the same induced visible band at 500–510 nm in most samples except CuO and Cr2O3-doped glasses. Infrared absorption spectra reveal characteristic vibrational bands due to triangular and tetrahedral borate groups. The introduction of NaF and CaF2 modifies the borate network forming BO3F tetrahedra. The introduction of 3d TMs as dopants did not make any obvious changes in the FTIR spectra due to their low content (0.2%). Gamma irradiation causes only minor variations in the intensities of the characteristic IR borate bands while the bands at about 1640 cm−1 and 3450 cm−1 reveal distinct growth in most samples.
Existence and Uniqueness of Positive Solitons for a Second-Order Difference Equation
Authors: Li Xinfu , Zhang Guang , Wang Ying
Published: December 2014

A discrete logistic steady-state equation with both positive and negative birth rate of population will be considered. By using sub- and upper-solution method, the existence of bounded positive solutions and the existence and uniqueness of positive solitons will be established. To this end, the Dirichlet eigenvalue problem with positive and negative coefficients is considered, and a general sub- and upper-solution theorem is also obtained.
Crosstalk between KIT and FGFR3 Promotes Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Cell Growth and Drug Resistance
Authors: Javidi-Sharifi Nathalie , Traer Elie , Martinez Jacqueline , Gupta Anu , Taguchi Takehiro , Dunlap Jennifer , Heinrich Michael C. , Corless Christopher L. , Rubin Brian P. , Druker Brian J. , Tyner Jeffrey W.
Published: November 2014

Kinase inhibitors such as imatinib have dramatically improved outcomes for patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), but many patients develop resistance to these treatments. Although in some patients this event corresponds with mutations in the GIST driver oncogenic kinase KIT, other patients develop resistance without KIT mutations. In this study, we address this patient subset in reporting a functional dependence of GIST on the FGF receptor FGFR3 and its crosstalk with KIT in GIST cells. Addition of the FGFR3 ligand FGF2 to GIST cells restored KIT phosphorylation during imatinib treatment, allowing sensitive cells to proliferate in the presence of the drug. FGF2 expression was increased in imatinib-resistant GIST cells, the growth of which was blocked by RNAi-mediated silencing of FGFR3. Moreover, combining KIT and FGFR3 inhibitors synergized to block the growth of imatinib-resistant cells. Signaling crosstalk between KIT and FGFR3 activated the MAPK pathway to promote resistance to imatinib. Clinically, an IHC analysis of tumor specimens from imatinib-resistant GIST patients revealed a relative increase in FGF2 levels, with a trend toward increased expression in imatinib-naïve samples consistent with possible involvement in drug resistance. Our findings provide a mechanistic rationale to evaluate existing FGFR inhibitors and multikinase inhibitors that target FGFR3 as promising strategies to improve treatment of patients with GIST with de novo or acquired resistance to imatinib. Cancer Res; 75(5); 880–91. ©2015 AACR.
PI3K/mTOR Dual Inhibitor VS-5584 Preferentially Targets Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Kolev Vihren N. , Wright Quentin G. , Vidal Christian M. , Ring Jennifer E. , Shapiro Irina M. , Ricono Jill , Weaver David T. , Padval Mahesh V. , Pachter Jonathan A. , Xu Qunli
Published: November 2014

Cancer stem cells (CSC) have been implicated in disease recurrence, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance, but effective targeting strategies for these cells are still wanting. VS-5584 is a potent and selective dual inhibitor of mTORC1/2 and class I PI 3-kinases. Here, we report that VS-5584 is up to 30-fold more potent in inhibiting the proliferation and survival of CSC compared with non-CSC in solid tumor cell populations. VS-5584 preferentially diminished CSC levels in multiple mouse xenograft models of human cancer, as evidenced by marked reduction of tumor-initiating capacity in limiting dilution assays. Likewise, VS-5584 treatment ex vivo preferentially reduced CSC in surgically resected breast and ovarian patient tumors. In contrast, chemotherapeutics such as paclitaxel and cisplatin were less effective in targeting CSC than bulk tumor cells. Mechanistic investigations revealed that preferential targeting of CSC required inhibition of multiple components of the PI3K–mTOR pathway: coordinate RNAi-mediated silencing of PI3Kα, PI3Kβ, and mTOR phenocopied the effect of VS-5584, exhibiting the strongest preferential targeting of CSC, while silencing of individual PI3K isoforms or mTOR failed to replicate the effect of VS-5584. Consistent with CSC ablation, VS-5584 delayed tumor regrowth following chemotherapy in xenograft models of small-cell lung cancer. Taken together, the preferential targeting of CSC prompts a new paradigm for clinical testing of VS-5584: clinical trials designed with CSC-directed endpoints may facilitate demonstration of the therapeutic benefit of VS-5584. We suggest that combining VS-5584 with classic chemotherapy that debulks tumors may engender a more effective strategy to achieve durable remissions in patients with cancer. Cancer Res; 75(2); 446–55. ©2014 AACR.
Proton Pump Inhibitors and Histamine 2 Blockers Are Associated with Improved Overall Survival in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma
Authors: Papagerakis Silvana , Bellile Emily , Peterson Lisa A. , Pliakas Maria , Balaskas Katherine , Selman Sara , Hanauer David , Taylor Jeremy M.G. , Duffy Sonia , Wolf Gregory
Published: December 2014

It has been postulated that gastroesophageal reflux plays a role in the etiology of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and contributes to complications after surgery or during radiotherapy. Antacid medications are commonly used in patients with HNSCC for the management of acid reflux; however, their relationship with outcomes has not been well studied. Associations between histamine receptor-2 antagonists (H2RA) and proton pump inhibitors (PPI) use and treatment outcomes were determined in 596 patients with previously untreated HNSCC enrolled in our SPORE epidemiology program from 2003 to 2008 (median follow-up 55 months). Comprehensive clinical information was entered prospectively in our database. Risk strata were created on the basis of possible confounding prognostic variables (age, demographics, socioeconomics, tumor stage, primary site, smoking status, HPV16 status, and treatment modality); correlations within risk strata were analyzed in a multivariable model. Patients taking antacid medications had significantly better overall survival (OS; PPI alone: P < 0.001; H2RA alone, P = 0.0479; both PPI + H2RA, P = 0.0133). Using multivariable Cox models and adjusting for significant prognostic covariates, both PPIs and H2RAs used were significant prognostic factors for OS, but only H2RAs use for recurrence-free survival in HPV16-positive oropharyngeal patients. We found significant associations between the use of H2RAs and PPIs, alone or in combination, and various clinical characteristics. The findings in this large cohort study indicate that routine use of antacid medications may have significant therapeutic benefit in patients with HNSCC. The reasons for this association remain an active area of investigation and could lead to identification of new treatment and prevention approaches with agents that have minimal toxicities. Cancer Prev Res; 7(12); 1258–69. ©2014 AACR.
Peroneal and Tibial Intraneural Ganglion Cysts in Children
Authors: Akcakaya Mehmet Osman , Shapira Yuval , Rochkind Shimon
Published: December 2014

Background/Aims: Intraneural ganglion cyst is a rare and underrecognized clinical entity in the pediatric population, which may cause pain as well as motor and sensory neurological deficits. This study presents 4 pediatric patients harboring ganglion cysts involving the peroneal and tibial nerves. Methods: Data encompassing pre- and postoperative analyses of 4 pediatric patients with intraneural ganglion cyst was evaluated. Results: Out of these 4 patients, 3 had an intraneural ganglion cyst involving the peroneal nerve, and 1 patient had his tibial nerve involved. Two patients were operated for recurrent ganglion cysts with severe postoperative neurological deficits, after preceding operations in other institutions. The other 2 patients had no history of previous surgery, and they had their initial surgical treatment in our institute for primarily diagnosed ganglion cysts. With a mean follow-up of 24 months, all patients experienced pain relief. Significant improvement of motor deficits was achieved in 3 patients. No recurrences were encountered during the 24-month follow-up. Conclusion: Intraneural ganglion cysts in children can be treated with excellent outcome in experienced and dedicated centers, which specialize in peripheral nerve microsurgery.
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 and Blood Pressure in Young and Healthy Adults from the General Population
Authors: Krisai Philipp , Aeschbacher Stefanie , Schoen Tobias , Bossard Matthias , van der Stouwe Jan Gerrit , Dörig Laura , Todd John , Estis Joel , Risch Martin , Risch Lorenz , Conen David
Published: December 2014

Hypertension and diabetes mellitus are highly correlated, but the underlying mechanisms are only partly understood. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the relationships between plasma levels of glucagon-like peptide-1, a key factor in the regulation of glucose homeostasis, and various blood pressure indices. Healthy adults aged 25 to 41 years were enrolled in a population-based study. Established cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, or a body mass index >35 kg/m
2
were exclusion criteria. Fasting plasma glucagon-like peptide-1 levels as determined with a novel high-sensitive assay and ambulatory blood pressure data were available in 1479 participants not using antihypertensive treatment. Median age of our population was 38 years. Mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure across increasing glucagon-like peptide-1 quartiles were 120.6, 122.8, 123.2, and 124.9 mm Hg and 77.1, 78.7, 78.9, and 79.9 mm Hg, respectively. We found a linear relationship of glucagon-like peptide-1 with 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure after multivariable adjustment (β per 1 log-unit increase 2.01; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–3.00;
P
<0.0001 for systolic and 1.22; 0.47–1.97;
P
=0.002 for diastolic blood pressure). In separate analyses, glucagon-like peptide-1 was significantly related to both awake (β per 1 log-unit increase 2.05; 1.02–3.09;
P
=0.0001 for systolic and 1.15; 0.35–1.96;
P
=0.005 for diastolic blood pressure) and asleep blood pressure (β per 1 log-unit increase 1.34; 0.26–2.42;
P
=0.01 for systolic and 1.05; 0.26–1.84;
P
=0.009 for diastolic blood pressure). In conclusion, plasma levels of glucagon-like peptide-1 are significantly associated with both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels.
The Socialist Transformation of Funeral Companies in Shanghai (1949–1957)
Authors: Henriot Christian
Published: December 2014

The takeover of the city by the People’s Liberation Army in May 1949 marked the beginning of a process of transformation of all commercial and industrial companies in Shanghai. The funeral business companies represented a small sector, yet one that had great significance in everyday life. The ccp sought to control the private funeral companies almost as soon as it took over the city. The new authorities envisioned a radical transformation of the whole funeral business. While they exhibited remarkable efficiency in conducting the process of progressive elimination of many companies and placing the whole funeral business under strict guidance, the ‘socialist transformation’ resulted in a system riddled with inefficiency, mismanagement and mistrust. The ccp built on the experience it had acquired previously, but with Shanghai it also needed to adapt to the challenge of managing a large and complex metropolis. I argue that the ccp successfully enlisted the trade associations to implement its policy through means of ideological dominance, persuasion techniques, threat and sheer coercion. The short but strong protest of the former managers of companies during the Hundred Flowers Movement made visible the powerful political machine that drove their companies into public–private joint management, then full socialisation.
‘A Helpless Choice’
Authors: Zhao Jin
Published: December 2014

By October 1953, when the Central Committee of the CCP formally decided to embark on the transition to socialism, the Chinese government already had overall control of the national economy. The newly announced ‘General line of transition to socialism’ heralded the incorporation of private industry into the national production plan, but it triggered all kinds of struggles in the course of public–private joint management. This paper takes a micro-level approach based on the study of one private company, Liu Hongsheng’s Zhanghua Woollen Textile Company, from the perspective of the private enterprise itself. Despite its lofty ideals of eliminating private ownership, the Communist Party of China had to accommodate its policy to the reality that the recovery of the national economy required the input of the private economic sector. The paper argues that the capitalists supported the CCP’s policy on the surface, but did their best to seek the development of their own enterprises. The CCP made concessions, but the basic thrust of its strategy remained geared towards the demise of private entrepreneurs. Even an influential ‘national capitalist’ like Liu had to hand over his enterprises.
Remarks on the Genizah Judaeo-Syriac Fragment
Authors: Bhayro Siam
Published: December 2014

In a previous issue of Aramaic Studies, I published a Judaeo-Syriac medical fragment from the Cairo Genizah (S. Bhayro, ‘A Judaeo-Syriac Medical Fragment from the Cairo Genizah’, Aramaic Studies 10 (2012), pp. 153–172.). I present here a revised edition with brief notes, as well as two brief remarks on the languages employed and the phonetic nature of the transcription.
Typification of Pascalia glauca (Heliantheae, Asteraceae), with historical notes on that name
Authors: Crespo Manuel B. , Pena-Martín Carolina
Published: December 2014

Pascalia glauca (Wedelia glauca) is a member of the Heliantheae-Ecliptinae (Asteraceae) native to South America, which however has become naturalized and invasive around the globe. After studying the protologue and the historical materials kept at Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid (Spain), both a lectotype and an epitype are designated for P. glauca. Illustrations of living plants and the type material are presented, and some historical aspects involving the provenance of the original material are discussed to justify the type selection.
Two new species of tarsonemid mites (Acari: Tarsonemidae) from northeastern Brazil
Authors: SOUSA JOSILENE M. , LOFEGO ANTÔNIO C. , GONDIM MANOEL JR. G. C.
Published: December 2014

Two new species of tarsonemid mites, Daidalotarsonemus annonae sp. nov. and Fungitarsonemus setillus sp. nov. found on Annonaceae leaves collected in northeastern Brazil are described and illustrated. Females of D. annonae are similar to those of D. serissae, but differ by having setae c2 setiform, and seta 1a distant from apodeme 1. F. setillus is similar to F. pereregrinus, but females can be distinguished by having the prodorsal shield fused to tergite C, dorsal setae h and d short, and setae c1 longer than c2.
Assessment of NASA GISS CMIP5 and Post-CMIP5 Simulated Clouds and TOA Radiation Budgets Using Satellite Observations. Part II: TOA Radiation Budget and CREs
Authors: Stanfield Ryan E. , Dong Xiquan , Xi Baike , Del Genio Anthony D. , Minnis Patrick , Doelling David , Loeb Norman
Published: December 2014

In Part I of this study, the NASA GISS Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) and post-CMIP5 (herein called C5 and P5, respectively) simulated cloud properties were assessed utilizing multiple satellite observations, with a particular focus on the southern midlatitudes (SMLs). This study applies the knowledge gained from Part I of this series to evaluate the modeled TOA radiation budgets and cloud radiative effects (CREs) globally using CERES EBAF (CE) satellite observations and the impact of regional cloud properties and water vapor on the TOA radiation budgets. Comparisons revealed that the P5- and C5-simulated global means of clear-sky and all-sky outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) match well with CE observations, while biases are observed regionally. Negative biases are found in both P5- and C5-simulated clear-sky OLR. P5-simulated all-sky albedo slightly increased over the SMLs due to the increase in low-level cloud fraction from the new planetary boundary layer (PBL) scheme. Shortwave, longwave, and net CRE are quantitatively analyzed as well. Regions of strong large-scale atmospheric upwelling/downwelling motion are also defined to compare regional differences across multiple cloud and radiative variables. In general, the P5 and C5 simulations agree with the observations better over the downwelling regime than over the upwelling regime. Comparing the results herein with the cloud property comparisons presented in Part I, the modeled TOA radiation budgets and CREs agree well with the CE observations. These results, combined with results in Part I, have quantitatively estimated how much improvement is found in the P5-simulated cloud and radiative properties, particularly over the SMLs and tropics, due to the implementation of the new PBL and convection schemes.
Coalitions and Compensation
Authors: Knotz Carlo , Lindvall Johannes
Published: November 2014

This paper examines unemployment benefit reforms in twenty-five advanced democracies between the middle of the 1980s and the onset of the Great Recession in 2008. The paper’s main argument is that the type of government – coalition or single-party – has an effect on whether cutbacks in social benefits are combined with compensating measures that mitigate the negative effects of the cuts. We show empirically that when cuts in unemployment benefit duration were made by coalition governments, spending on training programs tended to increase, but when cuts in duration were made by single-party governments, training spending tended to decrease. This pattern suggests that coalition governments, but not single-party governments, use compensation mechanisms to build political support for labor market reforms.
Health professionals’ perspectives on exercise referral and physical activity promotion in primary care: Findings from a process evaluation of the National Exercise Referral Scheme in Wales
Authors: Din Nafees U , Moore Graham F , Murphy Simon , Wilkinson Clare , Williams Nefyn H
Published: November 2014

Background and objectives:

Referring clinicians’ experiences of exercise referral schemes (ERS) can provide valuable insights into their uptake. However, most qualitative studies focus on patient views only. This paper explores health professionals’ perceptions of their role in promoting physical activity and experiences of a National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS) in Wales.

Design:

Qualitative semi-structured group interviews.

Setting:

General practice premises.

Methods:

Nine semi-structured group interviews involving 46 health professionals were conducted on general practice premises in six local health board areas. Purposive sampling taking into account area deprivation, practice size and referral rates was employed. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using the Framework method of thematic analysis.

Results:

Health professionals described physical activity promotion as important, although many thought it was outside of their expertise and remit, and less important than other health promotion activities such as smoking cessation. Professionals linked decisions on whether to advise physical activity to patients to their own physical activity levels and to subjective judgements of patient motivation. While some described ERS as a holistic alternative to medication, with potential social benefits, others expressed concerns regarding their limited reach and potential to exacerbate inequalities. Barriers to referral included geographic isolation and uncertainties about patient selection criteria, medico-legal responsibilities and a lack of feedback about patient progress.

Conclusion:

Clinicians’ concerns about expertise, priority setting and time constraints should be addressed to enhance physical activity promotion in primary care. Further research is needed to fully understand decision making relating to provision of physical activity advice and use of ERS.
Predictors of Methamphetamine Use Among Adolescents
Authors: Radatz Dana L. , Vandenberg Abby L. , Sample Lisa L.
Published: November 2014

This study has two primary goals. First, we seek to identify common demographic characteristics and risk factors among adolescent methamphetamine (MA) users, and second, to determine factors that predict MA use among adolescents. A binary logistic regression analysis was performed on data gathered from a 2010 Midwestern state survey administered to 33,364 middle and high school students. Results indicate that typical adolescent MA users are male, identify racially as “Other,” and are high school upperclassmen. Individual and community risk factors were found to be statistically significant in predicting MA use among adolescents. Specifically, high individual risk level increased the odds of MA use by roughly 9%, and higher community risk-level scores increased the odds by about 3%. Findings suggest that drug prevention efforts should focus attention on adolescent attitudes regarding health consequences and social acceptability of drug use as well as provide afterschool programs/clubs to adolescents.
Strategies for Successfully Teaching Students with ADD or ADHD in Instrumental Lessons
Authors: Melago Kathleen A.
Published: December 2014

Teachers can easily encounter students with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the instrumental lesson setting. Applicable to instrumental lesson settings in the public or private schools, private studios, or college studios, this article focuses on specific strategies ranging from the organization of the teaching studio to the instructional delivery that can help students with ADD and ADHD achieve their highest musical potential. By making small changes in studio arrangement/decoration, maintaining open lines of communication with parents, and understanding some key elements that can affect students’ ability to most efficiently learn, instrumental lesson teachers can improve the learning not only of students with ADD or ADHD, but of all students.
A novel approach to improving the quality of chitosan blended yarns using static theory
Authors: Liu Shirui , Hua Tao , Luo Xue , Yi Lam Ngan , Tao Xiao-ming , Li Li
Published: November 2014

Chitosan is a desirable material for several reasons, including its biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, and excellent absorption. Rapid progress in material science has resulted in the development and widespread use of chitosan in the textile industry primarily because it is polycationic and can inhibit microorganism activity. However, high electrostatic, poor mechanical properties, and the polycationic property of chitosan materials, which are the main reason for the electro-static generation of chitosan fibers, have a negative impact on the spinning process and lower the quality of chitosan yarns. Therefore, there is a critical need to reduce production losses and improve the poor spinnability. A new spinning approach exploits triboelectric electrostatic theory to efficiently remove the electric charge and to promote yarn formation under optimum conditions precisely and controllably, thereby minimizing waste and achieving a high utilization ratio of the chitosan fibers. Lagrange interpolation is used to systematically analyze the basic mechanical properties of the developed materials. The results show that the tenacity of chitosan/PAN blended yarns is superior to that of chitosan/cotton blended yarns because of the complementary effect of positive and negative charges; and the novel application of static theory can be used to effectively resolve the high static and reduce material cost problems in the yarn production process. This new approach is expected to promote the usage of chitosan fibers in the textile industry and in medical applications.
Geometrical modeling of near-net shape braided preforms
Authors: Rawal Amit , Gupta Srijan , Saraswat Harshvardhan , Sibal Apurv
Published: November 2014

Circular braiding has been successfully adapted for producing near-net shape structures for advanced fiber-reinforced composites. Net-shape manufacturing is significantly important for fabricating complex three-dimensional (3D) preforms. Geometrical modeling of braid patterns on 3D preforms plays a key role in determining their mechanical behavior. In this research work, the geometrical models of strand trajectory on the surface of cylindrical and conical mandrels with diamond, regular and triaxial braid patterns have been developed. These geometrical models of strand profiles were then simulated using Virtual Reality Modeling Language. Subsequently, the strands on complex-shaped mandrels, including ‘bottle’ and ‘funnel’, were simulated and accordingly, the braid angles have been predicted and compared with the experimental results. A virtual experiment was also conducted to compare the trajectory of the strands having constant and varying braid angles on the surface of conical mandrels.