bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Morel-Lavallée Lesion as a Rare Differential Diagnosis for Recalcitrant Bursitis of the Knee: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Vanhegan Ivor S. , Dala-Ali B. , Verhelst L. , Mallucci P. , Haddad Fares S.
Published: December 2012

A 72 year-old-male was referred to our institution with recalcitrant prepatellar bursitis. The injury was sustained after striking his right knee against a post whilst horse riding 9 months ago. Previous treatments included repeated aspiration and excision of the bursa with elastic compression bandaging. A diagnosis of a Morel-Lavallée internal degloving injury was made, and the lesion was satisfactorily managed by an internal quilting procedure to eliminate the potential dead space. A review of the literature reveals 29 published reports of Morel-Lavallée lesions with sufficient information for inclusion. These came from 14 separate countries with a total of 204 lesions in 195 patients. The most common anatomical location was the greater trochanter/hip (36%), followed by the thigh (24%) and the pelvis (19%). Most were managed surgically with evacuation of the haematoma and necrotic tissue followed by debridement, which was often repeated (36%). Conservative treatment with percutaneous aspiration and compression bandaging was the next most common treatment (23%). The knee was the fourth most common region affected (16%), and only 3 other lesions in the literature have been managed with a quilting procedure.
The HER2 Receptor in Breast Cancer: Pathophysiology, Clinical Use, and New Advances in Therapy
Authors: Mitri Zahi , Constantine Tina , O'Regan Ruth
Published: December 2012

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is overexpressed in around 20–30% of breast cancer tumors. It is associated with a more aggressive disease, higher recurrence rate, and increased mortality. Trastuzumab is a HER2 receptor blocker that has become the standard of care for the treatment of HER2 positive breast cancer. The effectiveness of Trastuzumab has been well validated in research as well as in clinical practice. The addition of Trastuzumab to standard of care chemotherapy in clinical trials has been shown to improve outcomes for early stage as well as metastatic HER2 positive breast cancer. The most clinically significant side effect of Trastuzumab is the risk of cardiac myocyte injury, leading to the development of congestive heart failure. The emergence of patterns of resistance to Trastuzumab has led to the discovery of new monoclonal antibodies and other targeted agents aimed at overcoming Trastuzumab resistance and improving survival in patients diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancers.
A Retrospective Analysis of the Clinical Impact of 939 Chest Radiographs Using the Medical Records
Authors: Geijer Mats , Ivarsson Liz , Göthlin Jan H.
Published: December 2012

Objective. Between one-third and half of all radiology examinations worldwide are probably chest studies. The aim of the current study was to retrospectively evaluate the clinical influence of chest radiography.Methods. In a tertiary referral hospital, 939 consecutive daytime chest radiography examinations were evaluated. The outcome was classified as normal, incidental, or pathologic. The referring physician’s reaction to radiologic outcome was classified as highly expected, moderately expected, or unexpected. The influence on the patients' treatment was divided into four groups from major to no influence.Results. In all, 71.6% of the studies had a highly expected outcome. Moderately expected or unexpected outcomes were noted in 36.6% of 500 pathologic examinations. Unexpected outcome was noted in 11.6% of all studies. The radiologic outcome influenced treatment in 65.4% of patients where pathology was demonstrated. Patients with normal or incidental findings had treatment influenced in 1/3 of the cases. Unexpected findings influenced treatment more than moderately expected findings. When radiological findings were highly expected, treatment was influenced in less than half of the cases. Surprisingly few chest radiology examinations were commented upon in the medical records.
Parkinson’s Disease in a Dish: What Patient Specific-Reprogrammed Somatic Cells Can Tell Us about Parkinson’s Disease, If Anything?
Authors: Drouin-Ouellet J. , Barker R. A.
Published: December 2012

Technologies allowing for the derivation of patient-specific neurons from somatic cells are emerging as powerfulin vitrotools to investigate the intrinsic cellular pathological behaviours of the diseases that affect these patients. While the use of patient-derived neurons to model Parkinson’s disease (PD) has only just begun, these approaches have allowed us to begin investigating disease pathogenesis in a unique way. In this paper, we discuss the advances made in the field of cellular reprogramming to model PD and discuss the pros and cons associated with the use of such cells.
Triterpene Esters and Biological Activities from Edible Fruits ofManilkara subsericea(Mart.) Dubard, Sapotaceae
Authors: Fernandes Caio P. , Corrêa Arthur L. , Lobo Jonathas F. R. , Caramel Otávio P. , de Almeida Fernanda B. , Castro Elaine S. , Souza Kauê F. C. S. , Burth Patrícia , Amorim Lidia M. F. , Santos Marcelo G. , Ferreira José Luiz P. , Falcão Deborah Q. , Carvalho José C. T. , Rocha Leandro
Published: December 2012

Manilkara subsericea(Mart.) Dubard (Sapotaceae) is popularly known in Brazil as “guracica.” Studies withManilkaraspp indicated the presence of triterpenes, saponins, and flavonoids. Several activities have been attributed toManilkaraspp such as antimicrobial, antiparasitic and antitumoral, which indicates the great biological potential of this genus. In all, 87.19% of the hexanic extract from fruits relative composition were evaluated, in which 72.81% were beta- and alpha-amyrin esters, suggesting that they may be chemical markers forM. subsericea. Hexadecanoic acid, hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester, (E)-9-octadecenoic acid ethyl ester, and octadecanoic acid ethyl ester were also identified. Ethanolic crude extracts from leaves, stems, and hexanic extract from fruits exhibited antimicrobial activity againstStaphylococcus aureusATCC25923. These extracts had highIC50values against Vero cells, demonstrating weak cytotoxicity. This is the first time, to our knowledge, that beta- and alpha-amyrin caproates and caprylates are described forManilkara subsericea.
In VitroAntibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities of Chlorogenic Acid against Clinical Isolates ofStenotrophomonas maltophiliaincluding the Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole Resistant Strain
Authors: Karunanidhi Arunkumar , Thomas Renjan , van Belkum Alex , Neela Vasanthakumari
Published: December 2012

Thein vitroantibacterial and antibiofilm activity of chlorogenic acid against clinical isolates ofStenotrophomonas maltophiliawas investigated through disk diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), time-kill and biofilm assays. A total of 9 clinicalS. maltophiliaisolates including one isolate resistant to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) were tested. The inhibition zone sizes for the isolates ranged from 17 to 29 mm, while the MIC and MBC values ranged from 8 to 16 μg mL−1and 16 to 32 μg mL−1. Chlorogenic acid appeared to be strongly bactericidal at 4x MIC, with a 2-log reduction in viable bacteria at 10 h.In vitroantibiofilm testing showed a 4-fold reduction in biofilm viability at 4x MIC compared to 1x MIC values (0.085<0.397A 490 nm) of chlorogenic acid. The data from this study support the notion that the chlorogenic acid has promisingin vitroantibacterial and antibiofilm activities againstS. maltophilia.
A Versatile Star PEG Grafting Method for the Generation of Nonfouling and Nonthrombogenic Surfaces
Authors: Thalla Pradeep Kumar , Contreras-García Angel , Fadlallah Hicham , Barrette Jérémie , De Crescenzo Gregory , Merhi Yahye , Lerouge Sophie
Published: December 2012

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) grafting has a great potential to create nonfouling and nonthrombogenic surfaces, but present techniques lack versatility and stability. The present work aimed to develop a versatile PEG grafting method applicable to most biomaterial surfaces, by taking advantage of novel primary amine-rich plasma-polymerized coatings. Star-shaped PEG covalent binding was studied using static contact angle, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D). Fluorescence and QCM-D both confirmed strong reduction of protein adsorption when compared to plasma-polymerized coatings and pristine poly(ethyleneterephthalate) (PET). Moreover, almost no platelet adhesion was observed after 15 min perfusion in whole blood. Altogether, our results suggest that primary amine-rich plasma-polymerized coatings offer a promising stable and versatile method for PEG grafting in order to create nonfouling and nonthrombogenic surfaces and micropatterns.
Complement Activation in the Aqueous Humor of Pseudophakic Bullous Keratopathy Patients
Authors: Füst Ágnes , Csuka Dorottya , Süveges Ildikó , Imre László , Bausz Mária , Nagymihály Attila , Csorvási Ágnes , Füst György , Németh János
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: According to some studies, inflammation is a potential etiological factor in pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (PBK). Our aim was to obtain information on the activation of the complement system in the aqueous humor in this disorder. Methods: Aqueous humor samples were collected during keratoplasty of 12 PBK patients, as well as during phacoemulsification surgery of 18 control patients. The concentrations of the protein-protein complexes generated during complement activation (C1rC1sC1inh and C3bBbP) through the classical and alternative pathways, respectively, as well as of the C3 cleavage product C3a, were measured with ELISA methods. The correlation among the complement factors and between the duration of the edema, the stage of the disease, and the level of the complement activation products was examined. Results: The concentration of C1rC1sC1inh, C3bBbP complex and C3a was significantly higher in the PBK group (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. In PBK patients, a correlation was found between the levels of the C1rC1sC1inh complex and C3a only. Conclusion: Our new findings indicate that in PBK the complement system is activated – via the classical pathway – in the aqueous humor. The activated complement may play a role in increased endothelial cell loss.
Pulmonary Hypertension as a Prognostic Indicator at the Initial Evaluation in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Kimura Motohiro , Taniguchi Hiroyuki , Kondoh Yasuhiro , Kimura Tomoki , Kataoka Kensuke , Nishiyama Osamu , Aso Hiromichi , Sakamoto Koji , Hasegawa Yoshinori
Published: December 2012

Background: The impact of pulmonary hypertension (PH) on survival has been demonstrated in severe cases with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) who were referred for transplantation. However, whether PH is a predictor of survival remains unclear in milder cases. Objectives: To evaluate the survival impact of pulmonary artery pressure measured during the initial evaluation in patients with IPF. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the initial evaluation data of 101 consecutive IPF patients undergoing right heart catheterization. Patients evaluated with supplemental oxygen were excluded. Predictors of 5-year survival were analyzed using the Cox proportional model. Results: The mean forced vital capacity (FVC) % predicted, diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) % predicted, and mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP) were 70.2 ± 20.1%, 47.9 ± 19.5%, and 19.2 ± 6.5 mm Hg, respectively. A univariate Cox proportional hazard model showed that the body mass index, %FVC, %DLCO, baseline PaO2, modified Medical Research Council score, 6-min walk distance, and lowest SpO2 of the 6-min walk test were significantly predictive of survival. The MPAP and pulmonary vascular resistance of right heart catheterization were also significant. With stepwise, multivariate Cox proportional analysis, MPAP (HR = 1.064; 95% CI 1.015-1.116, p = 0.010) and %FVC (HR = 0.965, 95% CI 0.949-0.982, p < 0.001) were independent determinants of survival. Analysis of the receiver operating curve revealed MPAP >20 mm Hg to be optimal for predicting the prognosis. Conclusions: Higher MPAP and lower %FVC at the initial evaluation were significant independent prognostic factors of IPF. The current results suggested the importance of the initial evaluation of PH for patients with IPF.
Effects of Individually Tailored Physical and Daily Activities in Nursing Home Residents on Activities of Daily Living, Physical Performance and Physical Activity Level: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Grönstedt Helena , Frändin Kerstin , Bergland Astrid , Helbostad Jorunn L. , Granbo Randi , Puggaard Lis , Andresen Mette , Hellström Karin
Published: December 2012

Background: Nursing home residents are extremely inactive and deterioration in health and an increasing dependence in activities of daily living (ADL) are common. Physical activity and exercise play a major role in the preservation of physical function and quality of life late in life. However, evidence for the benefit of rehabilitation in nursing home residents is conflicting and inconclusive. Objective: To evaluate the effect of an individually tailored intervention program of 3 months, for nursing home residents, on ADL, balance, physical activity level, mobility and muscle strength. Methods: In this single-blind randomized clinical trial with parallel groups, nursing home residents >64 years of age from three Nordic countries were included. The intervention group (IG) was assigned to individually tailored physical and daily activities, while the control group (CG) received ordinary care. Primary outcomes were ADL and balance, and secondary outcomes physical activity level, mobility and muscle strength. Results: At baseline, 322 nursing home residents were included, of whom 266 were assessed after 3 months of intervention. Following the intervention, a significant difference was found between participants in the IG and CG on measures of balance, physical activity and transfers. The IG significantly improved walking/wheelchair speed and functional leg muscle strength. The CG had significantly deteriorated in ADL, balance and transfers. Persons who had taken part in the intervention for more than 150 min/week significantly improved their balance and physical activity level. Participation in more than 10 weeks of intervention significantly improved physical activity and walking/wheelchair speed, while a deterioration was seen in those who had participated less. Conclusion: Individually tailored intervention in nursing home residents focusing on physical and daily activities is effective in improving transfers, balance and physical activity level compared to usual care. The effect of the intervention is dependent on the total activity time.
Association of GLUT2 and TAS1R2 Genotypes with Risk for Dental Caries
Authors: Kulkarni G.V. , Chng T. , Eny K.M. , Nielsen D. , Wessman C. , El-Sohemy A.
Published: December 2012

To determine whether common polymorphisms in the sweet taste receptor (TAS1R2) and glucose transporter (GLUT2) genes are associated with dental caries, 80 healthy Caucasian individuals aged 21–32 years were genotyped and grouped based on the TAS1R2 (Ile191Val) and GLUT2 (Thr110Ile) polymorphisms. Clinical and radiographic examinations were conducted by a single examiner who was blinded to the genotypes. To assess caries prevalence, three different caries scores were determined: DMFT (decayed, missing, and filled teeth), DMFT + X-ray and ICDAS (International Caries Detection and Assessment System). Associations between genotypes and caries prevalence were analyzed using Student’s t test. Based on the genotypes for each of the GLUT2 and TAS1R2 genes, individuals were stratified into four groups for comparison of caries scores. A higher DMFT score (mean ± SE; 4.3 ± 0.4 vs. 6.1 ± 1.2, p = 0.04) was observed among carriers of the Ile allele for GLUT2 (risk group). Carriers of the Val allele for TAS1R2 (resistant group) demonstrated lower caries scores: DMFT (4.1 ± 0.5 vs. 5.8 ± 0.9, p = 0.05), DMFT + X-ray (4.9 ± 0.6 vs. 7.5 ± 0.9, p = 0.01), and ICDAS (19.5 ± 2.2 vs. 26.14 ± 2.82, p = 0.03). Based on genotype stratification, caries scores were significantly lower in the double resistant group as compared to the double risk groups: DMFT (9.1 ± 0.08 vs. 4.2 ± 0.01, p < 0.01), DMFT + X-ray (10.5 ± 0.07 vs. 5.2 ± 0.01, p < 0.01) and ICDAS (32.9 ± 0.2 vs. 19.9 ± 0.01, p = 0.01). In conclusion, GLUT2 and TAS1R2 genotypes individually and in combination are associated with caries risk. Considering the combination of risk/resistance genotypes might further our understanding of genetic predispositions to dental caries and improve the accuracy of caries prediction models.
The Case of the Disappearing Blue Women: Understanding how Meaning is made in Desi Sangye Gyatso’s Blue Beryl paintings
Authors: Dachille-Hey Rae Erin
Published: December 2012

This article dives into the idiosyncrasies of the life of the body in the world
and the physician’s encounter with it. It asks the reader to patiently
probe the images found within a set of seventeenth-century medical paintings, to
seek the clues they provide to better understand the variable conditions of
different bodies and, finally, to reflect upon how the details of the paintings
themselves train the viewer to see the body in a very specific way. The
paintings employ particular modes of expression, referred to here as
‘modes of representation’, to generate meaning. In reflecting upon
the relationship between image and meaning in these paintings, it will become
clear that it is the manner in which the idiosyncrasies of the body are
depicted, the ways in which they are framed and patterned and the ways in which
the viewer learns to make sense of them, that are ultimately meaningful.
Developing a Competency-Based Pan-European Accreditation Framework for Health Promotion
Authors: Battel-Kirk Barbara , Van der Zanden Gerard , Schipperen Mariëlle , Contu Paolo , Gallardo Carmen , Martinez Ana , Garcia de Sola Silvia , Sotgiu Alessandra , Zaagsma Miriam , Barry Margaret M.
Published: December 2012

Background. The CompHP Pan-European Accreditation Framework for Health Promotion was developed as part of the CompHP Project that aimed to develop competency-based standards and an accreditation system for health promotion practice, education, and training in Europe. Method. A phased, multiple-method approach was employed to facilitate consensus building with key stakeholders in health promotion across Europe. Consultation processes included focus and discussion groups at European and country levels, an online survey, a web-based consultation, and testing in academic and practice settings. Successive drafts of the Framework (a total of five) were revised based on the feedback from each consultation stage. Findings. A total of 405 participants from 29 of the 34 target countries contributed to the consultation process. The overall response to the Framework was positive, with negative feedback focusing mainly on the barriers that may impact on its implementation. Conclusions. The CompHP Pan-European Accreditation Framework for Health Promotion provides an agreed system to promote quality assurance and competence for health promotion practice and education in Europe. The Framework, which builds on the CompHP Core Competencies and Professionals Standards, outlines the systems and processes for the accreditation of health promotion practitioners and health promotion education and training by accrediting organizations at national and European levels.
From model answers to multiple perspectives: Adapting study approaches to suit university study
Authors: Kember David , Hong Celina , Ho Amaly
Published: December 2012

The study looks at issues around the power of the hidden curriculum of assessment and its effects on student behaviour. The assessment regime at school level has an impact on study approaches at university level, and if we are to help students to make the transition from school to university, then it is important that we understand the beliefs and behaviours involved. The study looks at changes in behaviour in the light of beliefs about knowledge and their understanding about knowledge, that is, their epistemological beliefs, which are a pre- or co-requisite to learning in a manner consistent with the requirements of a discipline. Drawing on the literature from the transition from school- to university-level study, focus group interviews were conducted with 110 final-year students at two universities in Hong Kong in order to look at the adaptations made by students used to a particular assessment regime at school level and who, like students in all cultures, need to become more independent in their learning and to develop confidence. For students to successfully make the transition, first, they had to be exposed to issues or problems with multiple positions. Second, there needed to be active engagement through learning activities with the problems or issues.
Application of a new wall-less plate technology to complex multistep cell-based investigations using suspension cells
Authors: Quiñones Gabriel A. , Moore Travis I. , Nicholes Katrina , Lee Hyunjae , Kim Sudong , Sun Laura , Jeon Noo Li , Stephan Jean-Philippe
Published: December 2012

Key Points

The DropArray technology is compatible with the retention of suspension cells in multistep procedures thus enabling novel assay methods. This technology enabled visualization and quantification of specific killing events triggered by bispecific antibodies engaging T cells.
Self-evaluation in schizophrenia: an fMRI study with implications for the understanding of insight
Authors: Bedford Nicholas J , Surguladze Simon , Giampietro Vincent , Brammer Michael J , David Anthony S
Published: December 2012

Background

Lack of insight is a core feature of schizophrenia and is associated with structural brain abnormalities. The functional neuroanatomy of insight has only recently been investigated. When people evaluate their personality traits compared to those of another, activation is seen in central midline structures (CMS) of the brain. This study set out to compare cerebral activation in schizophrenia patients versus controls during a self-evaluation task which included positive and negative traits as well as mental and physical illness terms.

Methods

Eleven schizophrenia patients and 8 healthy controls, matched for age were studied. Insight was assessed using the Schedule for the Assessment of Insight-expanded version (SAI-E). FMRI data were obtained with a 1.5 Tesla GE system and interactions between participant group, self versus other, significant at the cluster level, were recorded.

Results

Significant hypoactivation in the medial superior frontal gyrus (dorsomedial prefrontal cortex) was observed in patients vs. controls during self-evaluation of all traits combined. A second cluster of hypoactivation in the posterior cingulate was also detected. When the response to individual traits was explored, underactivation in other frontal regions plus right inferior parietal lobule emerged and this tended to correlate, albeit weakly with lower insight scores. Further, there were areas of hyperactivation relative to controls in anterior cingulate, frontal and parietal regions (especially precuneus) which showed moderate inverse correlations with insight scores.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated that the CMS, identified as a key system underpinning self-evaluation, is dysfunctional in patients with schizophrenia, particularly dorso-medial PFC. This may have implications for lack of insight in schizophrenia. Hypofunction within the dorsomedial prefrontal region seems to be particularly important although other posterior and lateral cortical regions play a part and may modulate self-evaluative responses depending on the type of trait under consideration.
Effect of the bacterium Serratia marcescens SCBI on the longevity and reproduction of the nematode Caenorhabditis briggsae KT0001
Authors: Lancaster Jeremiah D , Mohammad Budour , Abebe Eyualem
Published: December 2012

Background

Extensive research effort has advanced our understanding of Caenorhabditis as a model system, but its natural association with bacteria remains to be explored in an ecological context. Explored associations vary vastly from mutualistic to parasitic. Serratia marcescens has been shown to be pathogenic to Caenorhabditis with a fitness cost. The recent isolation of an entomopathogenic Caenorhabditis briggsae KT0001/S. marcescens SCBI association from the wild has allowed us to examine under laboratory conditions whether such an association poses a serious cost to Caenorhabditis as previously surmised for other Serratia.

Results

A fecundity table of Caenorhabditis briggsae KT0001 fed on S. marcescens SCBI and the control fed on E. coli OP50 is presented. We found no significant difference in survivorship or total fecundity between the S. marcescens SCBI fed and E. coli OP50 fed Caenorhabditis briggsae KT0001. Only the mean onset of reproduction was significantly different between the two groups with E. coli fed C. briggsae maturing earlier (2.12 days) than those fed on Serratia (2.42 days).

Conclusion

S. marcescens SCBI is not highly pathogenic to C. briggsae KT0001 indicating that the entomopathogenicity reported for this association may be beneficial for both the nematode and bacteria. In light of the fact that hitherto conducted experimental tests conform to widely held view that Serratia are highly pathogenic to Caenorhabditis, the absence of a high fitness cost for C. briggsae we report here may indicate that this entomopathogenic association is non-transient suggesting nematode/bacterial associations in the wild may vary greatly. Consequently, broad generalizations about nematode/bacterial associations should be interpreted with care.
Identification of fever and vaccine-associated gene interaction networks using ontology-based literature mining
Authors: Hur Junguk , Özgür Arzucan , Xiang Zuoshuang , He Yongqun
Published: December 2012

Background

Fever is one of the most common adverse events of vaccines. The detailed mechanisms of fever and vaccine-associated gene interaction networks are not fully understood. In the present study, we employed a genome-wide, Centrality and Ontology-based Network Discovery using Literature data (CONDL) approach to analyse the genes and gene interaction networks associated with fever or vaccine-related fever responses.

Results

Over 170,000 fever-related articles from PubMed abstracts and titles were retrieved and analysed at the sentence level using natural language processing techniques to identify genes and vaccines (including 186 Vaccine Ontology terms) as well as their interactions. This resulted in a generic fever network consisting of 403 genes and 577 gene interactions. A vaccine-specific fever sub-network consisting of 29 genes and 28 gene interactions was extracted from articles that are related to both fever and vaccines. In addition, gene-vaccine interactions were identified. Vaccines (including 4 specific vaccine names) were found to directly interact with 26 genes. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed using the genes in the generated interaction networks. Moreover, the genes in these networks were prioritized using network centrality metrics. Making scientific discoveries and generating new hypotheses were possible by using network centrality and gene set enrichment analyses. For example, our study found that the genes in the generic fever network were more enriched in cell death and responses to wounding, and the vaccine sub-network had more gene enrichment in leukocyte activation and phosphorylation regulation. The most central genes in the vaccine-specific fever network are predicted to be highly relevant to vaccine-induced fever, whereas genes that are central only in the generic fever network are likely to be highly relevant to generic fever responses. Interestingly, no Toll-like receptors (TLRs) were found in the gene-vaccine interaction network. Since multiple TLRs were found in the generic fever network, it is reasonable to hypothesize that vaccine-TLR interactions may play an important role in inducing fever response, which deserves a further investigation.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that ontology-based literature mining is a powerful method for analyzing gene interaction networks and generating new scientific hypotheses.
Three dimensional inversion of multisource time domain electromagnetic data
Authors: Oldenburg Douglas W. , Haber Eldad , Shekhtman Roman
Published: December 2012

We present a 3D inversion methodology for multisource time-domain electromagnetic data. The forward model consists of Maxwell’s equations in time where the permeability is fixed but electrical conductivity can be highly discontinuous. The goal of the inversion is to recover the conductivity-given measurements of the electric and/or magnetic fields. The availability of matrix-factorization software and high-performance computing has allowed us to solve the 3D time domain EM problem using direct solvers. This is particularly advantageous when data from many transmitters and over many decades are available. We first formulate Maxwell’s equations in terms of the magnetic field, [Formula: see text]. The problem is then discretized using a finite volume technique in space and backward Euler in time. The forward operator is symmetric positive definite and a Cholesky decomposition can be performed with the work distributed over an array of processors. The forward modeling is quickly carried out using the factored operator. Time savings are considerable and they make 3D inversion of large ground or airborne data sets feasible. This is illustrated by using synthetic examples and by inverting a multisource UTEM field data set acquired at San Nicolás, which is a massive sulfide deposit in Mexico.
Using combinations of spatial gradients to improve the detectability of buried conductors below or within conductive material
Authors: Smith Richard S.
Published: December 2012

The detection of conductive bodies is an important capability when exploring for massive sulfide deposits or looking for unexploded ordnance. When these bodies are buried below conductive overburden or embedded in conductive material, the use of an electromagnetic system to identify the bodies becomes problematic because the response of the overlying conductive material can be much greater that the response of the buried conductor. I calculated the response of five models representing different conductivity distributions (a buried conductor, a uniform overburden with changes in the system altitude, a paleochannel, a thicker overburden, and a thinner overburden). The subtle response of the buried conductor was difficult to identify because it looked very similar to the responses of other structures that are not necessarily of interest. The spatial gradients for the same five models showed that the greatest improvement in the relative size of the anomalous gradient response compared with the background gradient came for the cases in which the material closest to the surface changes, in particular the paleochannel and thickening overburden models. However, identification of the deeper buried conductor was still problematic because of the large background gradients. In theory, the cylindrical symmetry of a dipole transmitter over a layered earth ensured that there were exact relations between the spatial derivatives. Hence it was possible to define two specific combinations that should be zero over a layered earth. Calculating these combinations for the five models showed that the anomalous zones stood out with significantly greater anomaly-to-background ratios. The measurement of the gradients and the calculation of these combinations therefore provided a means of identifying anomalous zones in and below a conductive earth. Different relative sizes and shapes of the two combinations for different models provided a way of discriminating between the vertical conductor model and the four other models.
Phytoestrogen Genistein Protects Against Endothelial Barrier Dysfunction in Vascular Endothelial Cells Through PKA-Mediated Suppression of RhoA Signaling
Authors: Jia Zhenquan , Zhen Wei , Velayutham Anandh Babu Pon , Liu Dongmin
Published: December 2012

The soy-derived phytoestrogen genistein has received attention for its potential to improve vascular function, but its mechanism remains unclear. Here, we report that genistein at physiologically relevant concentrations (0.1–10 μM) significantly inhibited thrombin-induced increase in endothelial monolayer permeability. Genistein also reduced the formation of stress fibers by thrombin and suppressed thrombin-induced phosphorylation of myosin light chain (MLC) on Ser19/Thr18 in endothelial cells (ECs). Genistein had no effect on resting intracellular [Ca2+] or thrombin-induced increase in Ca2+ mobilization. Addition of the inhibitors of endothelial nitric oxide synthase or estrogen receptor did not alter the protective effect of genistein. RhoA is a small GTPase that plays an important role in actin-myosin contraction and endothelial barrier dysfunction. RhoA inhibitor blocked the protective effect of genistein on endothelial permeability and also ablated thrombin-induced MLC-phosphorylation in ECs. Inhibition of PKA significantly attenuated the effect of genistein on thrombin-induced EC permeability, MLC phosphorylation, and RhoA membrane translocation in ECs. Furthermore, thrombin diminished cAMP production in ECs, which were prevented by treatment with genistein. These findings demonstrated that genistein improves thrombin-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction in ECs through PKA-mediated suppression of RhoA signaling.
Wind‐driven physical processes and sediment characteristics affect the distribution and nutrient limitation of nearshore phytoplankton in a stratified low‐productivity lake
Authors: Cyr Hélène , Coman Melissa A.
Published: December 2012

Lay Abstract

Wind‐driven physical processes are expected to affect the spatial distribution and composition of algae in lakes and reservoirs, and to determine their access to nearshore nutrients. We used nutrient addition bioassays to detect changes in the nutrient status of phytoplankton, which indicate changes in nutrient availability in the water. We examined these effects at offshore and nearshore sites and at different times of the year, under different stratification conditions (prestratification, early and late stratification) and with different phytoplankton communities. Phytoplankton accumulated downwind, but their growth rate was usually higher at upwind than downwind sites. This suggests that the quantity and quality of algal food sources for higher trophic levels may vary in predictable but opposite ways. Wind‐driven surface waves and upwelling activity were associated with changes in phytoplankton nutrient limitation in nearshore areas, but these differences were site specific. Our results suggest that wind‐driven physical processes and sediment characteristics are both important in determining internal nutrient loading and phytoplankton nutrient limitation in nearshore areas. On windy days, nutrient limitation of offshore phytoplankton at the lake surface was always related to the conditions found upwind, suggesting rapid exchanges between nearshore and offshore areas. Wind‐driven physical processes affect the distribution and nutrient limitation of phytoplankton in lakes, and are likely to influence the efficiency of energy transfers through planktonic food webs. These wind‐driven processes should be included more specifically into food web models.
Capital Markets and Firm Organization: How Financial Development Shapes European Corporate Groups
Authors: Belenzon Sharon , Berkovitz Tomer , Rios Luis A.
Published: December 2012

We investigate the effect of financial development on the formation of European corporate groups. Because cross-country regressions are hard to interpret in a causal sense, we exploit exogenous industry measures to investigate a specific channel through which financial development may affect group affiliation: internal capital markets. Using a comprehensive firm-level data set on European corporate groups in 15 countries, we find that countries with less developed financial markets have a higher percentage of group affiliates in more capital-intensive industries. This relationship is more pronounced for young and small firms and for affiliates of large and diversified groups. Our findings are consistent with the view that internal capital markets may, under some conditions, be more efficient than prevailing external markets, and that this may drive group affiliation even in developed economies.

This paper was accepted by Bruno Cassiman, business strategy.
Magnified Effects of Changes in NIH Research Funding Levels
Authors: Larson Richard C. , Ghaffarzadegan Navid , Diaz Mauricio Gomez
Published: December 2012

What happens within the university-based research enterprise when a federal funding agency abruptly changes research grant funding levels, up or down? We use simple difference equation models to show that an apparently modest increase or decrease in funding levels can have dramatic effects on researchers, graduate students, postdocs, and the overall research enterprise. The amplified effect is due to grants lasting for an extended period, thereby requiring the majority of funds available in one year to pay for grants awarded in previous years. We demonstrate the effect in various ways, using National Institutes of Health data for two situations: the historical doubling of research funding from 1998 to 2003 and the possible effects of “sequestration” in January 2013. We posit human responses to such sharp movements in funding levels and offer suggestions for amelioration.
Uncovering Dimensions of Culture in Underperforming Group Homes for People with Severe Intellectual Disability
Authors: Bigby Christine , Knox Marie , Beadle-Brown Julie , Clement Tim , Mansell Jim
Published: December 2012

Culture recurs as an important but under-investigated variable associated with resident outcomes in supported accommodation for people with intellectual disability. This study aimed to conceptualize the potential dimensions of culture in all group homes and describe the culture in underperforming group homes. A secondary analysis, using an inductive interpretative approach, was undertaken of a large qualitative data set from a study that had used ethnographic and action research methods to explore the quality of life outcomes for residents in 5 small group homes. Five categories were developed: misalignment of power-holder values with organizations espoused values, otherness, doing for not with, staff centered, and resistance. Differences from institutional culture are discussed, and the potential of the findings as a starting point to consider culture in high performing group homes and develop a quantitative measure of culture.
Burnout Among Summer Camp Staff Supporting People with Intellectual Disability and Aggression
Authors: Ko Clara , Lunsky Yona , Hensel Jennifer , Dewa Carolyn S.
Published: December 2012

Studies have shown that there is an association between exposure to people with intellectual disability who are aggressive and burnout in the staff who support them. Little is known, however, about the experience of summer camp staff who work with this population. This study examined the relationship between aggression and burnout in 169 staff members working at summer camps in Ontario, Canada. The questionnaire used included demographic information, exposure to aggression (frequency and severity), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory—Human Services Survey. Results showed that summer camp staff was exposed to frequent and relatively severe aggression. Severe exposure was associated with higher levels of emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishment. Given that summer camp staff is likely to be exposed to at least some aggression in their summer job, and that this aggression is associated with burnout, greater attention should be paid to training and supporting staff for when aggression occurs.
Correlates of Everyday Choice and Support-Related Choice for 8,892 Randomly Sampled Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in 19 States
Authors: Tichá Renáta , Lakin K. Charlie , Larson Sheryl A. , Stancliffe Roger J. , Taub Sarah , Engler Joshua , Bershadsky Julie , Moseley Charles
Published: December 2012

This article examines everyday choices made by 8,892 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and support-related choices made by 6,179 adults with IDD receiving services from 19 state developmental disabilities program agencies that participated in the 2008–2009 National Core Indicators Project. Controlling for physical and sensory impairment, age, behavioral support, communication, and state, people in residential settings with 16 or more people had less everyday choice than those in other living arrangements. People with mild and moderate IDD had more control over everyday choices when living in their own homes, whereas people with severe and profound IDD had more control when living in agency homes of 3 or fewer residents. For people of all levels of IDD, institutional settings of 16 or more residents offered the lowest levels of everyday choice. Controlling for the same covariates, individuals with all levels of IDD living in their own homes had significantly more support-related choices than those in any other residential arrangement. Controlling for individual and residential setting characteristics, the state in which sample members lived was notably predictive of support-related choice. Overall, the tested variables accounted for 44% of the variability in everyday choice and 31% in support-related choice.
From Routes to Roots or Vice Versa: Transformation of Urban Space in China's "New Urban Films"
Authors: Lu Hongwei
Published: December 2012

This paper, will focus on the two so-called "new urban films" -- Spring Subway (Kaiwang Chuntian de Ditie, 2002, dir. Zhang Yibai) and Shower (Xizao, 1999, dir. Zhang Yang). Both films touch upon displacement and de-localization in urban experience. Spring Subway creates a
mode of transit and emotional experience associated with a supermodern "non-place space" of social anonymity, impermanence, and displacement, whereas Shower on the other hand creates an intimate mode of locational experience anchored in the traditional "anthropological place"
space.
Of Ethnic Battles, Truces, and a "National"1 Cinema: The "Bolly-and-Hollywood Syndrome" as a Catalyst in the Construction of Sri Lankan National Cinema
Authors: Tampoe-Hautin Vilasnee
Published: December 2012

Without seeming to highlight ethnic differences, this article proposes a critique of "national" cinema and its construction within an ethno-sensitive context. The question of the "other" is a social reality that determines much of what is said and done in Sri Lankan
society. And the cinema is no exception. Within the wider scope of discussions on Sri Lankan cinema, this article will focus on the formative years between 1940 and 1960 when Sri Lanka forged its "national" cinema . It will examine the confluence of movements which took place during
this period, spearheaded by various groups whose conflicting views and interests, in fact, made cinema progress.
South Korea's Film Dilemma in the U.S. Market: "Copywood"1 or Asian New Wave?
Authors: Suh HaeLim
Published: December 2012

These two films' approach to Hollywood was quite different. Shim, the director of D-War, focused on Korea's advanced computer graphic (CG) technology, oriental story and huge scale like Hollywood films. On the other hand, The Host followed the common blockbuster's approach much like
other Korean films previously exported. The Host delivered a social message to Korea which represented the relationship between the U.S. and Korea. It was highly appraised because this serious meaning intertwined well with a monster genre film. The purpose of this research is to explain those
films' production, marketing, distribution, and exhibition processes and discuss their achievement and failure as a foreign challenge to Hollywood.
Clepsydra: The Fluid Melancholy of What Time Is It There
Authors: Barton David
Published: December 2012

Tsai Ming Liang has developed a signature movie style. His movies are repetitive in the extreme, lack character development, are mostly mute with the least amount of human verbal interaction possible. In my reading, I've found the most illuminating depictions of the effects of a Tsai
Ming Liang movie from music critics.
The Early Phase of Sri Lankan Cinema
Authors: Dissanayake Wimal
Published: December 2012

This article examines films made in Sri Lanka in Sinhalese. Sri Lankan cinema has made steady progress, despite the formidable economic and political challenges it has had to contend with, and the ferocity of the ethnic conflict that has engulfed the country during the past 25 years.
The objective of this essay is to focus on the first decade of Sri Lankan cinema and examine its salience in terms of the interaction between filmic discourse and cultural formations.
Reflections on Sexuality in the Modern Sinhala Cinema
Authors: Abeysekera Sunila
Published: December 2012

In this article I set out to examine the various ways in which sex and sexuality have been portrayed in the Sinhala cinema from the late 1950s to the present. This article builds on a work in progress relating to the portrayal of transgressive sexualities in the contemporary Sinhala
cinema. The completed work will focus on the depictions and portrayals of women, and further develop the hypothesis that I have been working on over the past 30 years: that for female characters in the Sinhala cinema who dare to tread outside the norms, there are few options: you get killed;
you kill yourself; or you join religious orders.
Arsenic Removal by Solar‐Driven Membrane Distillation: Modeling and Experimental Investigation with a New Flash Vaporization Module
Authors: Pal Parimal , Manna Ajay Kumar , Linnanen Lassi
Published: December 2012

A modeling and simulation study was carried out on a new flux‐enhancing and solar‐driven membrane distillation module for removal of arsenic from contaminated groundwater. The developed new model was validated with rigorous experimental investigations using arsenic‐contaminated groundwater. By incorporating flash vaporization dynamics, the model turned out to be substantially different from the existing direct contact membrane distillation models and could successfully predict (with relative error of only 0.042 and a Willmott d‐index of 0.997) the performance of such an arsenic removal unit where the existing models exhibited wide variation with experimental findings in the new design. The module with greater than 99% arsenic removal efficiency and greater than 50 L/m2·h flux could be implemented in arsenic‐affected villages in Southeast Asian countries with abundant solar energy, and thus could give relief to millions of affected people. These encouraging results will raise scale‐up confidence.
From Molecular to Supramolecular: An Exploration into the Modes of Self- assembly in Conformationally Locked Polycyclitols
Authors: Mehta Goverdhan , Sen Saikat
Published: December 2012

This brief account highlights the notable findings of our investigation into the supramolecular chemistry of conformationally locked polycyclitols in the solid state. The study was aimed at analyzing the crystal packing and unraveling the modalities of non-covalent interactions (particularly,
intramolecular vis-à-vis intermolecular O–H???O hydrogen bonds) in polyols. The know-how obtained thereof, was successfully utilized to engineer self-assemblies of designer polycyclitols, having hydrogen bond donors and acceptors fettered onto a trans-decalin scaffold.
The results seek to draw particular attention to the intrinsic attribute of this rigid carbocyclic framework to lock functional groups into spatially invariant positions and bring potential intramolecular hydrogen bonding partners into favorable interaction geometry to engender predictability
in the self-assembly patterns.