bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Necrosis-induced TLR3 Activation Promotes TLR2 Expression in Gingival Cells
Authors: Mori K. , Yanagita M. , Hasegawa S. , Kubota M. , Yamashita M. , Yamada S. , Kitamura M. , Murakami S.
Published: June 2015

Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), endogenous molecules released from injured or dying cells, evoke sterile inflammation that is not induced by microbial pathogens. Periodontal diseases are infectious diseases caused by oral microorganisms; however, in some circumstances, DAMPs might initiate inflammatory responses before host cells recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns. Here, we showed that the necrotic cell supernatant (NCS) functioned as an endogenous danger signal when released from necrotic epithelial cells exposed to repeat freeze thawing. The NCS contained RNA and stimulated the production of inflammatory cytokines interleukin 6 (IL-6) and IL-8 from gingival epithelial cells and gingival fibroblasts. Targeted knockdown of Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) in these cells significantly suppressed the ability of the NCS to induce IL-6 and IL-8 production. Epithelial cells and fibroblasts recognized the NCS from heterologous cells. Interestingly, the activation of TLR3, rather than other TLRs, induced TLR2 mRNA expression and proteins in gingival epithelial cells, and pretreatment with the NCS or polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly(I:C)), a strong TLR3 activator, enhanced inflammatory cytokine production induced by subsequent stimulation with Porphyromonas gingivalis ( P. gingivalis) lipopolysaccharide, a TLR2 agonist. Moreover, the NCS reduced the expression of epithelial tight junction molecules zona occludens 1 and occludin and increased the permeability of epithelial tight junctions. These findings suggest that endogenous danger signal molecules such as self-RNA released from necrotic cells are recognized by TLR3 and that a subsequent increase of TLR2 expression in periodontal compartments such as gingival epithelial cells and gingival fibroblasts may enhance the inflammatory response to periodontopathic microbes recognized by TLR2 such as P. gingivalis, which also disrupts epithelial barrier functions. Thus, DAMPs may be involved in the development and prolongation of periodontal disease.
Elections and civil violence in new multiparty regimes
Authors: Goldsmith Arthur A
Published: June 2015

The introduction of multiparty competition around the world following the Cold War raises the specter of rising civil violence during election periods in emerging democracies and hybrid regimes. Yet there are also plausible theoretical reasons to expect dropping civil violence around elections in these states or, alternatively, no significant change in the level of such conflict. This article tests these hypotheses in Africa with the aid of event data on the daily rate of civil violence incidents (1997–2013). It asks if civil violence in that region is more frequent, less frequent or constant during election cycles compared to other times. To guard against definitional and data selection problems encountered in some prior cross-national studies of elections and use of force, the research design emphasizes the relative risk of social conflict at the national level. The analysis suggests three distinct patterns in Africa. Given countrywide norms, election periods in most countries run the same relative risk of a day with violent events as do non-election periods. A subset of African countries exists, however, with more civil violence during elections when judged against the national reference line for conflict. There is a smaller group of countries where the risk of electoral civil violence is comparatively low. While caution should be exercised in interpreting the findings, the policy implication is that no general reason exists to preclude or defer elections in Africa as a way to minimize social conflict associated with political campaigns, although there may be specific reasons to do so in particular countries.
Works council effectiveness in subsidiaries of MNCs during reorganizations: Case study evidence from the Netherlands
Authors: Sapulete Saraï , van den Berg Annette
Published: June 2015

Internationalization of organizations has been a threat for (national) industrial relations. This study compares three cases to test the influence of works councils on decision-making in multinational companies (MNCs), going through reorganizations. The authors argue it is important to take account of internal factors in the subsidiary, namely the power capabilities and interests of the actors involved. They study these by looking at the network partners of works councils and aligned interests of local management and works council. The findings show that aligned interests form an important prerequisite for positive management attitude, trust and informal relations, positively affecting reorganizations in subsidiaries of MNCs.
Double-orifice mitral valve treated by percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty
Authors: Varghese Thomas George , Revankar Vinod Raghunath , Papanna Monica , Srinivasan Harshini
Published: June 2015

Double-orifice mitral valve is an rare anomaly characterized by a mitral valve with a single fibrous annulus and 2 orifices that open into the left ventricle. It is often associated with other congenital anomalies, most commonly atrioventricular canal defects, and rarely associated with a stenotic or regurgitant mitral valve. A patient who was diagnosed with congenital double-orifice mitral valve with severe mitral stenosis was treated successfully by percutaneous balloon mitral valvotomy rather than the conventional open surgical approach, demonstrating the utility of percutaneous correction of this anomaly.
Economic Impact Analysis amid Rapid Change
Authors: Drucker Joshua
Published: June 2015

This article examines issues in conducting economic impact analyses in regions undergoing substantial or rapid transformations. Economic impact analysis methods, like many other analytical techniques, are predicated on economic stability, yet commonly are applied to situations that violate this condition with little consideration of the implications. Special attention is paid to regional input–output modeling because of its prevalence in economic impact studies and susceptibility to distortions. Advice and suggestions for practitioners and educators teaching analytical techniques are discussed. Military communities in the United States impacted by the 2005 round of base realignments provide illustrative examples and applications.
Urban Growth in China
Authors: Perlstein Andrew , Ortolano Leonard
Published: June 2015

What role do professional planners play in a rapidly urbanizing China? Previous studies have looked in general at planning in China, but specific examples of planners’ work have been limited. We highlight three examples of planning-in-action that reveal the range of roles planners play in relation to local governments. In particular, we identify three ways Chinese planners provide input into the development process: negotiating for a middle ground between their opinions and the priorities of officials, providing technical analysis that can both inform and legitimize government decisions, and deliberately advocating for a position in the face of a conflicting agenda.
A Pilot Study of a Cognitive–Behavioral Treatment for Anxiety and Depression in Patients With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Calleo Jessica S. , Amspoker Amber B. , Sarwar Aliya I. , Kunik Mark E. , Jankovic Joseph , Marsh Laura , York Michele , Stanley Melinda A.
Published: June 2015

Anxiety and depression often remain unrecognized or inadequately treated in patients with Parkinson disease (PD). Cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective, but limited evidence supports its use for anxiety and depression in patients with PD. Sixteen patients with PD having significant anxiety and/or depressive symptoms were assigned to CBT or enhanced usual care. Assessments occurred at baseline, posttreatment, and 1-month follow-up. The CBT intervention included tools for anxiety, depression, and healthy living with PD symptoms. Individual sessions were delivered by telephone or in person, based on patient preference. Treatment was feasible with participants choosing 67% of sessions by telephone and 80% completed treatment. The between-group effect sizes for change scores from baseline to posttreatment and baseline to 1-month follow-up were large (posttreatment: d = 1.49 for depression and 1.44 for anxiety; 1-month follow-up: d = .73 for depression and 1.24 for anxiety), although only the posttreatment effect size for depression was significant. This pilot CBT program is feasible for treatment of anxiety and depression in patients with PD.
Symptom Assessment for a Palliative Care Approach in People With Dementia Admitted to Acute Hospitals
Authors: O’Shea Emma , Timmons Suzanne , Kennelly Sean , Siún Anna de , Gallagher Paul , O’Neill Desmond
Published: June 2015

Context:

As the prevalence of dementia increases, more people will need dementia palliative and end-of-life (EOL) care in acute hospitals. Published literature suggests that good quality care is not always provided.

Objective:

To evaluate the prescription of antipsychotics and performance of multidisciplinary assessments relevant to palliative care for people with dementia, including those at EOL, during hospital admission.

Method:

As part of a national audit of dementia care, 660 case notes were reviewed across 35 acute hospitals.

Results:

In the entire cohort, many assessments essential to dementia palliative care were not performed. Of the total sample, 76 patients died, were documented to be receiving EOL care, and/or were referred for specialist palliative care. In this cohort, even less symptom assessment was performed (eg, no pain assessment in 27%, no delirium screening in 68%, and no mood or behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in 93%). In all, 37% had antipsychotic drugs during their admission and 71% of these received a new prescription in hospital, most commonly for “agitation.”

Conclusion:

This study suggests a picture of poor symptom assessment and possible inappropriate prescription of antipsychotic medication, including at EOL, hindering the planning and delivery of effective dementia palliative care in acute hospitals.
Animals, Humans, Angels and God: Animal Symbolism in the Historiography of the ‘Animal Apocalypse’ of 1 Enoch
Authors: Gore-Jones Lydia
Published: June 2015

The ‘Animal Apocalypse’ in the Ethiopic Book of Enoch (1 Enoch) presents a fascinating rendition of human history, and Israelite history in particular, entirely in an extended metaphor of animals. This article argues that the author's animal symbols are systematically applied, based on his ethical understanding of the Law regarding clean and unclean animals. Under its symbolic imagery the ‘Animal Apocalypse’ offers an alternative view on human history which combines both the earthly and the cosmic realms. The animal symbolism reveals the author's worldview and carries a depth of meaning which otherwise would be lost in a story told in a literal sense.
Modelling and simulation of a compliant tilting pad air bearing
Authors: Duijnhouwer Frans , Nijmeijer Henk
Published: June 2015

The compliant tilting pad air bearing concept, a tilting pad bearing with the pivot of the pads placed on radial springs, is a promising aerodynamic bearing solution. Nevertheless, its non-linear dynamics make a time domain dynamic simulation model an essential tool for the design of rotor systems with these bearings. Development of these dynamic simulation models is the subject of this paper that provides a detailed description of an extendible model of the compliant tilting pad air bearing concept suitable for non-linear time domain analysis. 2D and 3D time domain simulations implementing the model are discussed in detail and some of their capabilities to model the non-linear behaviour of the bearing concept are demonstrated with examples.
Urban sanitation in India: key shifts in the national policy frame
Authors: Wankhade Kavita
Published: June 2015

Urban sanitation in India faces many challenges. Nearly 60 million people in urban areas lack access to improved sanitation arrangements, and more than two-thirds of wastewater is let out untreated into the environment, polluting land and water bodies. To respond to these environmental and public health challenges, urban India will need to address the full cycle of sanitation, i.e. universal access to toilets, with safe collection, conveyance and treatment of human excreta. This paper outlines these concerns, and highlights the need for focusing on access to water and the full cycle of sanitation for the urban poor, as fundamental to addressing the sanitation challenge. Priorities for policy and financing for urban sanitation in India are discussed, and the paper concludes with an examination of key policy initiatives in the last decade, assessing the extent to which these priorities are gaining attention.
If a Tree Falls and Everybody Hears the Sound: Teaching Deep Ecology to Business Students
Authors: Kopnina Helen
Published: June 2015

This article will discuss the role of environmentalism in environmental education (EE) and education for sustainable development (ESD) in the context of ecopedagogy. Ecopedagogy calls for the remaking of capitalist practices and seeks to re-engage democracy to include multispecies interests in the face of our current global ecological crisis. In this article, the written reports by international business students on the documentary film If a Tree Falls about a radical environmental movement will be discussed. The aim of this article is to reflect upon the question of whether confrontational questions posed by radical environmentalism can move students to re-examine certain central assumptions within their own society and education. The analysis of students’ individual writing assignments after viewing the film is placed in the context of the discussion about the aims of education in relation to environmental advocacy. This case study seeks to provide an example of how environmental advocacy and the objective of pluralistic education can be combined as mutually supportive means of achieving both democratic learning and learning for environmental sustainability.
Creating Inclusive Teams Through Perceptions of Supplementary and Complementary Person–Team Fit
Authors: De Cooman Rein , Vantilborgh Tim , Bal Matthijs , Lub Xander
Published: June 2015

Using a multi-wave, multi-level design, this study unravels the impact of subjective (dis)similarities in teams on team effectiveness. Based on optimal distinctiveness theory and the social inclusion model, we assume combined effects of individual and shared perceptions of supplementary and complementary person–team fit on affective and performance-based outcomes. Furthermore, at the team level, we expect this relationship to be mediated by team cohesion. In a sample of 121 participants (across 30 teams), we found that teams in which members share perceptions of high supplementary as well as high complementary fit outperform those in which they do not. In addition, members of such teams report higher levels of team satisfaction and viability. Both of these occur through positive effects on the cohesion within the team. Thereby, our results support the central tenet of the social inclusion model. At the individual level, this enhancing effect of the interaction was not supported, providing additional evidence for considering perceived person–team fit as a collective construct.
Feedforward active noise control using wavelet frames: simulation and experimental results
Authors: Akraminia Mahdi , Mahjoob Mohammad J , Niazi Amir H
Published: June 2015

Wavelet frames are an appropriate alternative approach for signal approximation especially for noise/vibration signals. This paper presents an active noise control scheme using various wavelet frames with an innovative structure. In this structure, the authors employ a nonlinear static mapping cascaded with an infinite impulse response filter to model the dynamic part of the network. Online dynamic back propagation learning algorithms are applied based on the gradient descent method to adjust the network parameters. Simulations are carried out to compare the performance of filtered-x least mean square and filtered-x back propagation neural network algorithms with the proposed method. Experiments are then designed and conducted to evaluate the developed algorithms. Both simulation and experimental results show the superior performance of the proposed method in terms of a fast convergence rate and noise attenuation while avoiding the curse of dimensionality.
Assessment of mental health literacy in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Cheung Yin Ting , Ong Ying Ying , Ng Terence , Tan Yee Pin , Fan Gilbert , Chan Choi Wan , Molassiotis Alex , Chan Alexandre
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Psychosocial distress is often underdiagnosed and undertreated among breast cancer patients due to the poor recognition of the associated symptoms and inadequate knowledge of the treatments available.

Objective

To evaluate the mental health literacy of breast cancer patients by assessing (1) their ability to recognize the symptoms of anxiety, fatigue, depression, and cognitive disturbances, and (2) their knowledge of help-seeking options and professional treatments.

Methods

In this multi-center, cross-sectional study, early-stage breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy underwent four assessments to measure their levels of anxiety, depression, fatigue, and cognitive disturbances. With the aid of cancer-specific vignettes, a questionnaire was administered to evaluate their mental health literacy.

Results

Fifty-four patients were recruited (77.7% Chinese, aged 52.7 ± 8.5 years). Clinically significant anxiety (15.1%), fatigue (27.8%), and cognitive disturbances (25.9%) were more prevalent than depression (5.6%). Although the majority of the patients could recognize the symptoms of fatigue accurately (75.9%), less than half could identify those of anxiety (35.2%), depression (48.1%), and cognitive disturbances (48.1%). Patients were more receptive to help from their family members (score: 3.39 out of 4.00) and oncologists (score: 3.13) than from other mental health specialists, such as psychiatrists (score: 2.26) and psychologists (score: 2.19) in the management of their psychosocial distress. Approximately half of the patients indicated that embarrassment and fear were their main barriers to seeking professional treatment (55.6%).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the mental health literacy of breast cancer patients was inadequate. Intervention and management strategies could be implemented to teach these patients about evidence-based treatments and professional help that are specific to mental disorders.
Fatal pulmonary toxicity due to carfilzomib (Kyprolis™)
Authors: Lataifeh Abdel Rahman , Nusair Ahmad
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Carfilzomib (Kyprolis™) is a second-generation proteasome inhibitor for the treatment of relapsing multiple myeloma (MM). In 2012, carfilzomib was approved by Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of patients with relapsed MM who had received at least two prior therapies. We present a case of fatal pulmonary toxicity presumed secondary to carfilzomib.

Clinical presentation

A 61-year-old male was initially diagnosed with MM in 2003 for which he received multiple treatments. In 2013, he was started on carfilzomib for relapsing MM. After 24 h, the patient developed an acute respiratory distress syndrome for which he needed mechanical ventilation. One week later, patient developed diffuse alveolar hemorrhage and despite aggressive supportive care, the patient died after three weeks.

Discussion

The temporal relationship between the first exposure to carfilzomib and development of symptoms, and the exclusion of other possible etiologies, leads us to believe that our patient’s lung toxicity is a possible adverse reaction to carfilzomib. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous reports of deaths due to carfilzomib-related pulmonary toxicity.
Health Care Management in ALS Patients
Authors: Braga Anna Caroline , Pinto Anabela
Published: June 2015

An optimized management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an added value of a follow-up by an interdisciplinary team. The aim of this study was to identify which professionals are involved in care of ALS patients at Portugal and their impact on quality of life (QoL). We divided the sample in Group 1 (G1; Southern) and Group 2 (G2; Northern) and used a semi-structured questionnaire, functional status scale (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale–Revised [ALSFRS-R]), and QoL evaluation to perform the study. There were observed differences at admission in ALSFRS-R, higher in G1, presence of specialized professionals higher in G2; non-invasive ventilation equipment had higher use and compliance in G1. Multiple regression analysis shows gender, education level, and technical aids as predictors of QoL. The study showed that, despite regional differences, there were external factors common to both groups that influenced QoL.
Computed tomographic findings in cats with mycobacterial infection
Authors: Major Alison , Holmes Andrea , Warren-Smith Christopher , Lalor Stephanie , Littler Rebecca , Schwarz Tobias , Gunn-Moore Danièlle
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The objective of this study was to describe the CT imaging findings associated with confirmed mycobacterial infection in cats.

Methods

CT images from 20 cats with confirmed mycobacterial disease were retrospectively reviewed. Five cats underwent conscious full-body CT in a VetMouseTrap device. All other cats had thoracic CT performed under general anaesthesia, with the addition of CT investigation of the head/neck, abdomen and limbs in some cases.

Results

Mycobacterial infection was seen most frequently in adult (mean age 7.4 years; range 0.6–14 years) neutered male cats (11/20). The most common infections were Mycobacterium microti (6/20) and Mycobacterium bovis (6/20). CT abnormalities were most commonly seen in the thorax, consisting of bronchial (9/20), alveolar (8/20), ground glass (6/20) or structured interstitial (15/20) lung patterns, which were often mixed. Tracheobronchial, sternal and cranial mediastinal lymphadenomegaly were common (16/20). Other abnormalities included abdominal (8/13) or peripheral (10/18) lymphadenomegaly, hepatosplenomegaly (7/13), mixed osteolytic/osteoproliferative skeletal lesions (7/20) and cutaneous or subcutaneous soft tissue masses/nodules (4/20).

Conclusions and relevance

CT of feline mycobacteriosis shows a wide range of abnormalities, often involving multiple organ systems and mimicking many other feline diseases. Mycobacteriosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of thoracic, abdominal and skeletal disorders in cats.
Integrating tobacco treatment into thoracic oncology settings: Lessons learned
Authors: Japuntich Sandra J , Luberto Christina M , Streck Joanna M , Rigotti Nancy A , Temel Jennifer , Lanuti Michael , Dresler Carolyn , Zallen Jennifer P , Davies Diane , Park Elyse R
Published: June 2015

Clinical practice guidelines recommend tobacco treatment for all cancer patients. However, little is known about how to integrate tobacco treatment into cancer care. The results of our pilot study of an evidence-based tobacco treatment integrated into a thoracic oncology clinic demonstrated good feasibility and efficacy, providing an opportunity to inform future tobacco treatment integration efforts. Here, we describe the process of intervention development, clinic integration, patient identification, and patient enrollment. We report on the intervention content and delivery, patterns of quitting for participants in the tobacco treatment group, and changes in smoking-related psychosocial variables. Clinical implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Does personalization increase turnout? Spitzenkandidaten in the 2014 European Parliament elections
Authors: Schmitt Hermann , Hobolt Sara , Popa Sebastian Adrian
Published: June 2015

The 2014 European Parliament elections were the first elections where the major political groups each nominated a lead candidate ( Spitzenkandidat) for the Commission presidency in the hope that this would increase the visibility of the elections and mobilize more citizens to turn out. Using data from the 2014 European Elections Study, an EU-wide post-election survey, we analyse whether and how the presence of the lead candidates influenced the individual probability to participate in these elections. Our findings show that the recognition of the candidates increased the propensity to turn out, even when controlling for a host of other individual-level factors explaining turnout and the context factors known to facilitate participation. Furthermore, the campaign efforts of the lead candidates are associated with higher turnout levels and are reinforced by candidate recognition.
Between practice, policy and politics: Music therapy and the Dementia Strategy, 2009
Authors: Spiro Neta , Farrant Camilla L , Pavlicevic Mercédès
Published: June 2015

Does current music therapy practice address the goals encapsulated in the UK Department of Health document, Living well with dementia: a national dementia strategy (the Dementia Strategy) published in 2009? A survey elicited the views of clients, family members, music therapists, care home staff and care home managers, about this question by focusing on the relationship between music therapy and the 17 objectives outlined in the Dementia Strategy. The results showed that the objectives that are related to direct activity of the music therapists (such as care and understanding of the condition) were seen as most fulfilled by music therapy, while those regarding practicalities (such as living within the community) were seen as least fulfilled. Although the responses from the four groups of participants were similar, differences for some questions suggest that people's direct experience of music therapy influences their views. This study suggests that many aspects of the Dementia Strategy are already seen as being achieved. The findings suggest that developments of both music therapy practices and government strategies on dementia care may benefit from being mutually informed.
The Perspectives of Students With and Without Disabilities on Inclusive Schools
Authors: Shogren Karrie A. , Gross Judith M. S. , Forber-Pratt Anjali J. , Francis Grace L. , Satter Allyson L. , Blue-Banning Martha , Hill Cokethea
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of students with and without disabilities being educated in inclusive schools, documenting their perceptions of the culture of their school, inclusion, and the practices that were implemented to support all students. Focus groups were conducted with 86 students with and without disabilities from six schools that were recognized as exemplars of inclusive schoolwide practices. Three major themes emerged: (a) students’ sense of belonging in their school culture, (b) inclusion and its impact on students, and (c) school and classroom practices, such as positive behavior support systems, co-teaching, and instructional practices related to student self-determination and direction, feedback and re-teaching, multiple means of representation and expression, and technology utilization. Implications of these findings for implementing inclusive practices in other schools are discussed.
A geometric and kinematic error model and compensation of a 6-axis motorized optical fiber alignment stage
Authors: Zheng Yu , Duan Ji-an
Published: June 2015

In order to increase the accuracy of a 6-axis motorized fiber alignment stage, a geometric and kinematic error model was established. A low-order body array was introduced to describe the general topological structure of the alignment stage; a homogeneous error transformation matrix was adopted to present the combination and kinematic errors of a typical case in a multi-body system; the structure and kinematic relationship of a 6-axis motorized fiber alignment stage as well as the corresponding error equation were built via the multi-body system error theory; the error distribution state and sensitivity characteristics of the 6-axis motorized fiber alignment stage were further analyzed; and the error compensation strategy was developed. The experimental results indicated that using inline error compensation for improving the alignment accuracy of the automatic alignment system for optical waveguide devices was very effective.
Effect of water vapor on the compressive strength of a mineral wool insulation board
Authors: Simon Tamás K , Mlinárik Lilla , Vargha Viktória
Published: June 2015

During the refurbishment of a large area of a low-pitched roof with mineral wool, the rigid boards have lost their compressive strength and could not be used. This was surprising because the material was protected from the weather by the damp-proofing layer and did not get wet. This article deals with the investigation of the possible causes.
Using surveillance data to reduce healthcare–associated infection: a qualitative study in Sweden
Authors: Ridelberg Mikaela , Nilsen Per
Published: June 2015

Introduction:

Healthcare-associated infection (HAI) surveillance data can be used to estimate the scope, spread and location of infections, monitor trends, evaluate preventive efforts, and improve practices, policy and facility planning. In Sweden, national point prevalence surveys (PPS) have been conducted twice yearly in all county councils since 2008.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to identify key obstacles concerning the HAI surveillance process.

Methods:

Twenty-two infection control practitioners (ICPs) from all county councils in Sweden were interviewed, using semi-structured interview guides. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Sixteen types of obstacles pertaining to four surveillance stages were identified. Most obstacles were associated with the first two stages, which meant that the latter stages of this process, i.e. the use of the results to reduce HAI, were underdeveloped. The ICPs observed scepticism towards both the PPS methodology itself and the quality of the HAI data collected in the PPS, which hinders HAI surveillance realising its full potential in Swedish healthcare.
Episodic Aphasia Associated With Cortical Spreading Depression After Subdural Hemorrhage Evacuation
Authors: Shah Nirav H. , Adams David
Published: June 2015

Cortical spreading depression (CSD) has been associated with many pathological entities including migraine, trauma, hemorrhage, and mitochondrial disease. The clinical diagnosis remains challenging without the other concomitant features such as headache because CSD can mimic seizure or acute stroke. Wereport of a 77 year-old right handed man with a left subdural hematoma evacuation that subsequently developed episodic aphasia, slurred speech, right nasolabial fold flattening, and right pronator drift. In this case report, we discuss our multimodal diagnostic approach and treatment in a patient with episodic aphasia and neurological deficits in order to propose the diagnosis of cortical spreading depression. CSD should be considered when focal deficits in brief episodes occur after stroke and seizures have been ruled out. Treatment choices as illustrated by this case report can have an impact on outcome and resolution of episodes.
Myrtus communis L. Freeze-Dried Aqueous Extract Versus Omeprazol in Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease
Authors: Zohalinezhad Mohammad E. , Hosseini-Asl Mohammad Kazem , Akrami Rahimeh , Nimrouzi Majid , Salehi Alireza , Zarshenas Mohammad M.
Published: June 2015

The current work assessed a pharmaceutical dosage form of Myrtus communis L. (myrtle) in reflux disease compared with omeprazol via a 6-week double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial. Forty-five participants were assigned randomly to 3 groups as A (myrtle berries freeze-dried aqueous extract, 1000 mg/d), B (omeprazol capsules, 20 mg/d), and C (A and B). The assessment at the beginning and the end of the study was done by using a standardized questionnaire of frequency scale for the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (FSSG). In all groups, both reflux and dyspeptic scores significantly decreased in comparison with the respective baselines. Concerning each group, significant changes were found in FSSG, dysmotility-like symptoms and acid reflux related scores. No significant differences were observed between all groups in final FSSG total scores (FSSG2). Further studies with more precise design and larger sample size may lead to a better outcome to suggest the preparation as an alternative intervention.
Environmental Factors Influencing Corporate Governance
Authors: Isukul Araniyar C. , Chizea John J.
Published: June 2015

With the enthronement of democratic governance in Nigeria, there is the expectation that democracy would strengthen political institutions, regulatory institutions, and governance effectively, and by so doing, create an enabling environment for good corporate governance practices to thrive. This research uses data from World Bank Governance indicators for three countries, Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt, and examines how institutional quality has changed from 1996 to 2012. The research methodology used in investigating this research is a cross-country research analysis. The findings of this research reveal that the adoption of democratic institutions has not significantly increased the institutional quality of political and regulatory institutions in Nigeria. On the contrary, there has been an increasing trend of political instability and violence; however, there appears to be significant improvement in freedom of the press, democracy has allowed pressed freedom to thrive.
The Relationships Between Need for Cognition, Boredom Proneness, Task Engagement, and Test Performance
Authors: Diehl Virginia A. , Wyrick Matthew
Published: June 2015

Participants read a procedural text describing how to make a wind-up spool toy while only reading, reading and watching the experimenter do the task, or reading and doing the task themselves. Afterward, task performance (measured by time to complete the task without the instructions and number of errors) and memory for/understanding of the text (measured with a Multiple Choice Test) were assessed. Participants then completed a packet that included the Need for Cognition and Boredom Proneness scales. Task performance was better under the Read & Do and Read & Watch conditions, indicating that those participants were more engaged in the task than Read Only. Need for Cognition was positively related to Multiple Choice Test score (after controlling for boredom proneness and task experience) only under the Read & Do conditions (and marginally for Read & Watch). This suggests that level of task engagement may moderate the relationship between need for cognition and test performance. The Boredom Proneness subscales of Perception of Time and Affective Responses were negatively related to need for cognition.
Civil Society Organizations Going European?
Authors: Scaramuzzino Roberto , Wennerhag Magnus
Published: June 2015

This study explores factors that influence Swedish civil society organizations’ (CSOs) degree of activity at different geographical and administrative levels and, in particular, how they are affected by processes of Europeanization in the social welfare policy area. The present study is based on a national survey and includes approximately 1,600 Swedish CSOs. Despite the often claimed mismatch between the Swedish welfare model and European Union (EU) level social policy measures, EU membership has opened a new level of opportunities for activities for Swedish CSOs. The results show that Swedish CSOs are mostly active at the local level and very seldom at the European level. The strongest factor contributing to Swedish CSOs’ degree of activity at the European level is the perceived relevance of this level. Furthermore, resources have a great impact. CSOs that can claim strong representativeness and that have access to employed staff are more likely to be Europeanized.
UN Census “Households” and Local Interpretations in Africa Since Independence
Authors: Randall Sara , Coast Ernestina , Antoine Philippe , Compaore Natacha , Dial Fatou-Binetou , Fanghanel Alexandra , Gning Sadio Ba , Thiombiano Bilampoa Gnoumou , Golaz Valérie , Wandera Stephen Ojiambo
Published: June 2015

Since the 1950s, the UN Statistical Division has encouraged nations to standardize the definitions used in data collection. A key concept in censuses and surveys is the household: This is the unit for which information is collected and analyzed, and is thus an important dimension of data that are the basis for many policies. We aim to understand the tensions between conformity with UN guidelines and national priorities. We analyze the documentation around the UN household definition over this period. Using detailed census and survey documentary data for several African countries, especially Burkina Faso, Senegal, Uganda, and Tanzania, we examine the disparities between national census definitions of “household” and the UN definition. Perspectives from interviews with key informants within national statistical offices demonstrate the variability in the importance accorded to the UN harmonization aims and the problems that arise when these standardized approaches interact with local norms and living arrangements.
Experimental and computational analysis of abnormal grain growth
Authors: Pimentel G. , Toda-Caraballo I. , Capdevila C.
Published: June 2015

The mechanisms involved in the abnormal grain growth of the iron based oxide dispersion strengthened alloys are analysed in the present work. Its microstructural evolution takes place at high temperatures (0.9 Tm) and is characterised by an initial submicrometre size microstructure and a strong < 110>|| rolling direction (RD) texture that evolves into a few extremely coarse grains (mm sizes) with < 112>||RD orientation. The analysis of the observed grain boundaries has been completed by molecular dynamics simulations. Microstructure evolution consists of an extended recovery process, followed by an abnormal grain growth stage, consequence of the orientation pinning mechanism and the proximity to a symmetric tilt boundary family between the < 110>||RD and < 112>||RD grains.
Variation of microstructure and mechanical properties of medium Mn steels with multiphase microstructure
Authors: Zhao C. , Zhang C. , Cao W. Q. , Wang C. Y. , Yang Z. G. , Weng Y. Q.
Published: June 2015

Specimens of medium manganese steels with different manganese contents were austenised at 850°C for 30 min followed by intercritical annealing and water quenching at three different temperatures with different times. After heat treatments, mechanical properties were measured through tensile test. X-ray diffraction, electron back scattered diffraction and scanning electron microscopy examinations were also performed. Results indicate that annealing time, annealing temperature and manganese content all affect the final microstructure, which may consist of ferrite, retained austenite and fresh lath martensite, and variation of microstructure leads to different mechanical properties of steel.
Characterization of mice harboring a variant of EPCR with impaired ability to bind protein C: novel role of EPCR in hematopoiesis
Authors: Pepler Laura , Yu Pei , Dwivedi Dhruva J. , Trigatti Bernardo L. , Liaw Patricia C.
Published: June 2015

Key Points

Mutation of the PC-binding domain of EPCR results in viable mice that exhibit procoagulant and proinflammatory phenotype when challenged. EPCRR84A/R84A mice develop splenomegaly as a result of BM failure, suggesting that EPCR plays an important role in hematopoiesis.
Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein is a natural inhibitor of thrombin
Authors: Liang Ying , Fu Yi , Qi Ruomei , Wang Meili , Yang Nan , He Li , Yu Fang , Zhang Jian , Yun Cai-Hong , Wang Xian , Liu Junling , Kong Wei
Published: June 2015

Key Points

COMP negatively regulates hemostasis and thrombosis. COMP is a natural inhibitor of thrombin.
Best proximity point theorems for probabilistic proximal cyclic contraction with applications in nonlinear programming
Authors: Saadati Reza
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we derive a best proximity point theorem for non-self-mappings satisfied proximal cyclic contraction in PM-spaces and this shows the existence of optimal approximate solutions of certain simultaneous fixed point equations in the event that there is no solution. As an application we consider a nonlinear programming problem. Our results extend and improve the recent results of (Sadiq Basha in Nonlinear Anal. 74(17):5844-5850, 2011).
Systemic risk management and investment analysis with financial network analytics: research opportunities and challenges
Authors: Hu Daning , Schwabe Gerhard , Li Xiao
Published: June 2015

Recent economic crises like the 2008 financial tsunami has demonstrated a critical need for better understanding of the topologies and various economic, social, and technical mechanisms of the increasingly interconnected global financial system. Such a system largely relies on the interconnectedness of various financial entities such as banks, firms, and investors through complex financial relationships such as interbank payment networks, investment relations, or supply chains. A network-based perspective or approach is needed to study various financial networks in order to improve or extend financial theories, as well as develop business applications. Moreover, with the advance of big data related technologies, and the availability of huge amounts of financial and economic network data, advanced computing technologies and data analytics that can comprehend such big data are also needed. We referred this approach as financial network analytics. We suggest that it will enable stakeholders better understand the network dynamics within the interconnected global financial system and help designing financial policies such as managing and monitoring banking systemic risk, as well as developing intelligent business applications like banking advisory systems. In this paper, we review the existing research about financial network analytics and then discuss its main research challenges from the economic, social, and technological perspectives.
Feasibility of CO2 plume detection using 4D seismic: CO2CRC Otway Project case study — Part 2: Detectability analysis
Authors: Pevzner Roman , Caspari Eva , Gurevich Boris , Dance Tess , Cinar Yildiray
Published: June 2015

A key objective of stage 2 of the Cooperative Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Technologies (CO2CRC) Otway Project is to explore the ability of the seismic reflection method to detect and monitor injection of a small amount of greenhouse gas into a saline formation. Development of a seismic monitoring program requires an understanding of expected time-lapse (TL) seismic signals. Hence, before such an injection experiment is undertaken, we assessed the feasibility of seismic monitoring in a modeling study. Considering realistic gas distributions inferred from reservoir simulations, we analyzed the influence of various factors (injection volume, time after injection, and realizations of the reservoir flow model) on the TL seismic signal. However, the applicability of seismic monitoring depends not only on the strength of the TL seismic signal but also on the noise level of the seismic data. Hence, to estimate the detectability of gas in the subsurface, we have developed a workflow that integrated actual data repeatability observed at the Otway test site into the seismic feasibility study. Although we observed differences between the considered scenarios, all of the scenarios indicated a high likelihood of successful plume detection with the observed noise level and surface 4D seismic acquisition geometry used in stage 1 of the CO2CRC Otway Project at the same site. However, a thin layer of gas spreading out from the edges of the main plume below the seal in all scenarios would be a challenge for surface seismic monitoring.
MicroRNA-16 suppresses metastasis in an orthotopic, but not autochthonous, mouse model of soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Sachdeva Mohit , Whitley Melody J. , Mito Jeffrey K. , Ma Yan , Lev Dina C. , Cardona Diana M. , Kirsch David G.
Published: June 2015

MicroRNAs (miRs) can regulate tumor cell invasion and metastasis in a tumor specific manner. We recently demonstrated that global downregulation of miRNAs after deleting dicer can promote development of distant metastases in a mouse model of primary soft tissue sarcoma (STS). In this study, we identified miRNAs that are differentially downregulated in metastatic STS in both human and mouse, and investigated the role of these miRNAs in metastasis. miRNA-Taqman PCR arrays showed a global downregulation of miRNAs in metastatic human sarcomas. Similar analysis in mouse metastatic sarcomas revealed overlap for several downregulated miRNAs including miR-16, miR-103, miR-146a, miR-223, miR-342 and miR-511. Restoration of these downregulated miRNAs in mouse primary sarcoma cell lines showed that miR-16, but not other downregulated miRNAs, was able to significantly suppress both migration and invasion in vitro, without altering cell proliferation. In addition, orthotopic transplant of a sarcoma cell line stably expressing miR-16 into the muscle of immunocompromised mice revealed that restoration of miR-16 can significantly decrease lung metastasis in vivo. However, no change in the rate of lung metastasis was observed when miR-16 was deleted in mouse primary sarcomas at sarcoma initiation. Taken together, these results indicate that miR-16 can have metastasis suppressing properties both in vitro and in vivo. However, the loss-of-function experiments in autochthonous tumors indicate that loss of miR-16 is not sufficient to promote metastasis in vivo.
Using the avian mutanttalpid2as a disease model for understanding the oral-facial phenotypes of Oral-facial-digital syndrome
Authors: Schock Elizabeth N. , Chang Ching-Fang , Struve Jaime N. , Chang Ya-Ting , Chang Julie , Delany Mary E. , Brugmann Samantha A.
Published: June 2015

Oral-facial-digital syndrome (OFD) is a ciliopathy characterized by oral-facial abnormalities including cleft lip/palate, broad nasal root, dental anomalies, micrognathia and glossal defects. In addition, these patients have several other characteristic abnormalities typical of a ciliopathy including polysyndactyly, polycystic kidneys and hypoplasia of the cerebellum. Recently, a subset of human OFD cases has been linked to mutations in the centriolar protein C2 calcium-dependent domain-containing 3 (C2CD3). Our previous work identified mutations in C2CD3 as the causal genetic lesion for the avian talpid2 mutant. Based on this common genetic etiology, we re-examined the talpid2 mutant biochemically and phenotypically for characteristics of OFD. We found that, as in OFD patients, protein-protein interactions between C2CD3 and OFD1 are reduced in talpid2 cells. Furthermore, we found that all common phenotypes were conserved between human OFD patients and avian talpid2 mutants. In light of these findings, we utilized the talpid2 to examine the cellular basis for the oral-facial phenotypes present in OFD. Specifically, we examined the development and differentiation of cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs) when C2CD3-dependent ciliogenesis is impaired. Our studies suggest that, whereas disruptions of C2CD3-dependent ciliogenesis do not affect CNCC specification or proliferation, CNCC migration and differentiation are disrupted. Loss of C2CD3-dependent ciliogenesis affects the dispersion and directional persistence of migratory CNCCs. Furthermore, loss of C2CD3-dependent ciliogenesis results in dysmorphic and enlarged CNCC-derived facial cartilages. Thus, these findings suggest that aberrant CNCC migration and differentiation could contribute to the pathology of oral-facial defects in OFD.