bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Testing in Breast Cancer: A Guide to Current Practices
Authors: Hagemann Ian S.
Published: July 2016

Context.—Molecular diagnostics play a role in the management of many cancers, including breast cancer.

Objective.—To provide an update on molecular testing in current clinical practice, targeted at practicing pathologists who are not breast cancer specialists.

Data Sources.—This study is a narrative literature review.

Conclusions.—In addition to routine hormone (estrogen and progesterone) receptor testing, new and recurrent tumors are tested for HER2 amplification by in situ hybridization or overexpression by immunohistochemistry. Intrinsic subtyping of tumors represents a fundamental advance in our understanding of breast cancer biology, but currently it has an indirect role in patient management. Clinical next-generation sequencing (tumor profiling) is increasingly used to identify potentially actionable mutations in tumor tissue. Multianalyte assays with algorithmic analysis, including MammaPrint, Oncotype DX, and Prosigna, play a larger role in breast cancer than in many other malignancies. Given that a proportion of breast cancers are familial, testing of nontumor tissue for cancer predisposition mutations also plays a role in breast cancer care.
Autologous NeoHep Derived from Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Patients’ Blood Monocytes by Upregulation of c-MET Signaling
Authors: Bhattacharjee Jashdeep , Das Barun , Sharma Disha , Sahay Preeti , Jain Kshama , Mishra Alaknanda , Iyer Srikanth , Nagpal Puja , Scaria Vinod , Nagarajan Perumal , Khanduri Prakash , Mukhopadhyay Asok , Upadhyay Pramod
Published: July 2016

In view of the escalating need for autologous cell-based therapy for treatment of liver diseases, a novel candidate has been explored in the present study. The monocytes isolated from hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) nucleic acid test (NAT)-positive (HNP) blood were differentiated to hepatocyte-like cells (NeoHep) in vitro by a two-step culture procedure. The excess neutrophils present in HNP blood were removed before setting up the culture. In the first step of culture, apoptotic cells were depleted and genes involved in hypoxia were induced, which was followed by the upregulation of genes involved in the c-MET signaling pathway in the second step. The NeoHep were void of hepatitis B virus and showed expression of albumin, connexin 32, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4-α, and functions such as albumin secretion and cytochrome P450 enzyme-mediated detoxification of xenobiotics. The engraftment of NeoHep derived from HBsAg-NAT-positive blood monocytes in partially hepatectomized NOD.CB17-Prkdcscid/J mice liver and the subsequent secretion of human albumin and clotting factor VII activity in serum make NeoHep a promising candidate for cell-based therapy.
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-BB Protects Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) Derived From Immune Thrombocytopenia Patients Against Apoptosis and Senescence and Maintains MSC-Mediated Immunosuppression
Authors: Zhang Jia-min , Feng Fei-er , Wang Qian-ming , Zhu Xiao-lu , Fu Hai-xia , Xu Lan-ping , Liu Kai-yan , Huang Xiao-jun , Zhang Xiao-hui
Published: July 2016

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is characterized by platelet destruction and megakaryocyte dysfunction. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from ITP patients (MSC-ITP) do not exhibit conventional proliferative abilities and thus exhibit defects in immunoregulation, suggesting that MSC impairment might be a mechanism involved in ITP. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) improves growth and survival in various cell types. Moreover, PDGF promotes MSC proliferation. The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of PDGF-BB on MSC-ITP. We showed that MSC-ITP expanded more slowly and appeared flattened and larger. MSC-ITP exhibited increased apoptosis and senescence compared with controls. Both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways account for the enhanced apoptosis. P53 and p21 expression were upregulated in MSC-ITP, but inhibition of p53 with pifithrin-α markedly inhibited apoptosis and senescence. Furthermore, MSCs from ITP patients showed a lower capacity for inhibiting the proliferation of activated T cells inducing regulatory T cells (Tregs) and suppressing the synthesis of anti-glycoprotein (GP)IIb-IIIa antibodies. PDGF-BB treatment significantly decreased the expression of p53 and p21 and increased survivin expression in MSC-ITP. In addition, the apoptotic rate and number of senescent cells in ITP MSCs were reduced. Their impaired ability for inhibiting activated T cells, inducing Tregs, and suppressing the synthesis of anti-GPIIb-IIIa antibodies was restored after PDGF-BB treatment. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that PDGF-BB protects MSCs derived from ITP patients against apoptosis, senescence, and immunomodulatory defects. This protective effect of PDGF-BB is likely mediated via the p53/p21 pathway, thus potentially providing a new therapeutic approach for ITP.

Significance

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is characterized by platelet destruction and megakaryocyte dysfunction. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) improves growth and survival in various cell types and promotes mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) proliferation. PDGF-BB protects MSCs derived from ITP patients against apoptosis, senescence, and immunomodulatory defects. This protective effect of PDGF-BB is likely mediated via the p53/p21 pathway, thus potentially providing a new therapeutic approach for ITP.
The Mechanisms of Immune System Regulation by Probiotics in Immune-Related Diseases
Authors: Parvin Bastani  , Aziz Homayouni  , Leila Norouzi-Panahi  , Arash Tondhoush  , Sharareh Norouzi  , ElnazVaghef Mehrabany  , Zahra Kasaie
Published: July 2016

Probiotics are live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts, may confer a health benefit on the host. Stimulation and regulation of immune system is among well documented benefits claimed for probiotics. Both innate and adaptive immune system can be regulated by these microorganisms. Effects of probiotics on immune system are significantly dependent on the strain, dosage and the investigated condition. In this article the mechanisms through which probiotics may regulate immune system were reviewed. These mechanisms are consist of blockage of adhesion sites for pathogenic bacteria, competition for nutrients, production of inhibitory compounds, degradation of the toxin receptors in the mucosa membrane, activation of phagocytic and natural killer cells as well as regulation of cellular and humoral immunity. Also the immune-related diseases including immune deficiency (Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and hypersensitivity (allergy, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes mellitus type 1 and rheumatoid arthritis) were discussed
Selected Topics on Systems Modeling and Natural Language Processing: Editorial Introduction to the Issue 7 of CSIMQ
Authors: Andrzejewski Witold , Khouri Selma
Published: July 2016

The seventh issue of Complex Systems Informatics and Modeling Quarterly presents five papers devoted to two distinct research topics: systems modeling and natural language processing (NLP). Both of these subjects are very important in computer science. Through modeling we can simplify the studied problem by concentrating on only one aspect at a time. Moreover, a properly constructed model allows the modeler to work on higher levels of abstraction and not having to concentrate on details. Since the size and complexity of information systems grows rapidly, creating good models of such systems is crucial. The analysis of natural language is slowly becoming a widely used tool in commerce and day to day life. Opinion mining allows recommender systems to provide accurate recommendations based on user-generated reviews. Speech recognition and NLP are the basis for such widely used personal assistants as Apple’s Siri, Microsoft’s Cortana, and Google Now. While a lot of work has already been done on natural language processing, the research usually concerns widely used languages, such as English. Consequently, natural language processing in languages other than English is very relevant subject and is addressed in this issue.
Trisomy 21 consistently activates the interferon response
Authors: Sullivan Kelly D , Lewis Hannah C , Hill Amanda A , Pandey Ahwan , Jackson Leisa P , Cabral Joseph M , Smith Keith P , Liggett L Alexander , Gomez Eliana B , Galbraith Matthew D , DeGregori James , Espinosa Joaquín M
Published: July 2016

Although it is clear that trisomy 21 causes Down syndrome, the molecular events acting downstream of the trisomy remain ill defined. Using complementary genomics analyses, we identified the interferon pathway as the major signaling cascade consistently activated by trisomy 21 in human cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed that trisomy 21 activates the interferon transcriptional response in fibroblast and lymphoblastoid cell lines, as well as circulating monocytes and T cells. Trisomy 21 cells show increased induction of interferon-stimulated genes and decreased expression of ribosomal proteins and translation factors. An shRNA screen determined that the interferon-activated kinases JAK1 and TYK2 suppress proliferation of trisomy 21 fibroblasts, and this defect is rescued by pharmacological JAK inhibition. Therefore, we propose that interferon activation, likely via increased gene dosage of the four interferon receptors encoded on chromosome 21, contributes to many of the clinical impacts of trisomy 21, and that interferon antagonists could have therapeutic benefits.
A Multicenter Predictive Score for Amputation‐Free Survival for Patients Operated on with an Heparin‐Bonded ePTFE Graft for Critical Limb Ischemia
Authors: Dorigo Walter , Piffaretti Gabriele , Pulli Raffaele , Castelli Patrizio , Pratesi Carlo ,   PROPATEN Italian Registry Group, Pratesi Carlo , Dorigo Walter , Pulli Raffaele , Alessi Innocenti Alessandro , Pratesi Giovanni , De Blasis Giovanni , Scalisi Luciano , Monaca Vincenzo , Battaglia Giuseppe , Dorrucci Vittorio , Vecchiati Enrico , Casali Giovanni , Ferilli Fiore , Ottavi Paolo , Castelli Patrizio , Piffaretti Gabriele , Franchin Marco
Published: July 2016

Aim of the study

To retrospectively create a predictive score for estimating amputation‐free survival (AFS) in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) operated on with the use of a heparin‐bonded expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) bypass graft (Hb‐ePTFE).

Methods

Over a 13‐year period, ending in March 2015, a Hb‐ePTFE graft was implanted in 683 patients undergoing below‐knee revascularization for CLI in seven Italian vascular hospitals. Data concerning these interventions were retrospectively collected in a multicenter registry with a dedicated database. Univariate and multivariable analyses with Kaplan–Meier estimates were used to identify potential significant predictors of AFS at 5 years, and then a predictive risk score was constructed. A qualitative assessment of the Kaplan–Meier survival estimates for each integer score was performed, and subgroups of risk were stratified on the basis of the primary end point.

Results

Overall, estimated 5‐year AFS rate was 48.3 % (SE 0.024). At multivariate analysis, older age, coronary artery disease, end‐stage renal disease, tissue loss and poor runoff score were predictors of AFS. The integer score ranged from 0 to 11; Kaplan–Meier analysis for AFS in each score group identified three subgroups with significant differences at 5 years: low‐risk subgroup (scores from 0 to 2, 67.7 %), medium‐risk subgroup (scores 3 and 4, 49.2 %, p < 0.001 in comparison with low‐risk subgroup) and high‐risk subgroup (scores from 5 to 11, 25.2 %, p < 0.001 in comparison with either low‐risk subgroup or medium‐risk subgroup).

Conclusions

A category of low‐risk patients with CLI treated with the indexed graft does exist, thus suggesting a primary role for Hb‐ePTFE in such patients. A prospective validation of such a score is necessary.
Energy Additivity Approaches to QSPR Modeling in Estimation of Dynamic Viscosity of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester and Biodiesel
Authors: Krisnangkura Kanit , Aryusuk Kornkanok , Phankosol Suriya , Lilitchan Supathra
Published: July 2016

Viscosity is an important physical property of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) and biodiesel (mixture of FAMEs). In this work, quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) for estimation of dynamic viscosity of FAMEs and biodiesel is approached via the Gibbs energy additivity method. The Gibbs energy of dynamic viscous flow is simply derived from the sum of the Gibbs energy of kinematic viscous flow and Gibbs energy of volumetric expansion. The derived model can be used for estimation of dynamic viscosity of saturated and unsaturated FAMEs commonly found in nature. Also, the proposed model can be extended to a mixture of FAMEs or biodiesel as well as biodiesel blends. Thus, the dynamic viscosity of FAMEs as well as neat and blended biodiesels can be estimated by the same equation from the carbon number (z) and number of double bonds (nd) at different temperature (T). The average absolute deviation (AAD) values for saturated, unsaturated FAMEs, biodiesels, and biodiesel blends (at 20–100 °C) are approximately the same as the original model for estimation of kinematic viscosity.
The Role of Quality Control in Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing Library Preparation
Authors: Nietsch Rouven , Haas Jan , Lai Alan , Oehler Daniel , Mester Stefan , Frese Karen S. , Sedaghat-Hamedani Farbod , Kayvanpour Elham , Keller Andreas , Meder Benjamin
Published: July 2016

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is getting routinely used in the diagnosis of hereditary diseases, such as human cardiomyopathies. Hence, it is of utter importance to secure high quality sequencing data, enabling the identification of disease-relevant mutations or the conclusion of negative test results. During the process of sample preparation, each protocol for target enrichment library preparation has its own requirements for quality control (QC); however, there is little evidence on the actual impact of these guidelines on resulting data quality. In this study, we analyzed the impact of QC during the diverse library preparation steps of Agilent SureSelect XT target enrichment and Illumina sequencing. We quantified the parameters for a cohort of around 600 samples, which include starting amount of DNA, amount of sheared DNA, smallest and largest fragment size of the starting DNA; amount of DNA after the pre-PCR, and smallest and largest fragment size of the resulting DNA; as well as the amount of the final library, the corresponding smallest and largest fragment size, and the number of detected variants. Intriguingly, there is a high tolerance for variations in all QC steps, meaning that within the boundaries proposed in the current study, a considerable variance at each step of QC can be well tolerated without compromising NGS quality.
Effect of 5α-Reductase Inhibitors on Sexual Function: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Liu Luhao , Zhao Shankun , Li Futian , Li Ermao , Kang Ran , Luo Lianmin , Luo Jintai , Wan Shawpong , Zhao Zhigang
Published: July 2016

Introduction

5α-Reductase inhibitors (5ARIs) are widely used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and androgenetic alopecia (AGA).

Aim

To review all the available data on the effect of 5ARIs on sexual function and assess whether 5ARIs increase the risk of sexual dysfunction.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted using the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases. The search was limited to articles published in English and up to October 2015. Article selection proceeded according to the search strategy based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses criteria. Data were analyzed using Stata 12.0. A fixed- or a random-effects model was used to calculate the overall combined risk estimates. Publication bias was assessed using Begg and Egger tests.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, and decreased libido.

Results

After screening 493 articles, 17 randomized controlled trials with 17,494 patients were included. Nine studies evaluated the efficacy of 5ARIs in men with BPH. The other eight reported using 5ARIs in the treatment of men with AGA. The mean age of participants was 60.10 years across all studies. We included 10 trials (6,779 patients) on the efficacy and safety of finasteride, 4 trials (6,222 patients) on the safety and tolerability of dutasteride, and 3 trials (4,493 patients) using finasteride and dutasteride for AGA. The pooled relative risks for sexual dysfunction were 2.56 (95% CI = 1.48–4.42) in men with BPH and 1.21 (95% CI = 0.85–1.72) in men with AGA; those for erectile dysfunction were 1.55 (95% CI = 1.14–2.12) in men with BPH and 0.66 (95% CI = 0.20–2.25) in men with AGA; and those for decreased libido were 1.69 (95% CI = 1.03–2.79) in men with BPH and 1.16 (95% CI = 0.50–2.72) in men with AGA. Estimates of the total effects were generally consistent with the sensitivity analysis. No evidence of publication bias was observed.

Conclusion

Evidence from the randomized controlled trials suggested that 5ARIs were associated with increased adverse effects on sexual function in men with BPH compared with placebo. However, the association was not statistically significant in men with AGA. Well-designed randomized controlled trials are indicated to study further the mechanism and effects of 5ARIs on sexual function.
MiR‐31 and miR‐128 regulates poliovirus receptor‐related 4 mediated measles virus infectivity in tumors
Authors: Geekiyanage Hirosha , Galanis Evanthia
Published: July 2016

Oncolytic measles virus strains are currently being evaluated in several clinical trials, as a promising novel oncolytic platform. Poliovirus receptor‐related 4 (PVRL4) was recently identified as a potent measles virus (MV) receptor; however, its regulation is not yet understood. Increased levels of PVRL4 protein were observed in cell membrane, cytoplasm and nuclei of glioblastoma, breast and ovarian tumor clinical samples with no significant change in PVRL4 mRNA levels in glioblastoma and breast cancer compared with their corresponding control samples, suggesting that PVRL4 is likely post‐transcriptionally regulated. Therefore, we sought to investigate the potential role of miRNAs in PVRL4 regulation and thus MV infectivity. We demonstrated that miR‐31 and miR‐128 can bind to the 3′UTR of PVRL4 and decrease PVRL4 levels while anti‐miR‐31/128 increase PVRL4 levels suggesting that PVRL4 is miRNA targeted. Furthermore, miR‐31/128 expression levels were down‐regulated in glioblastoma and breast tumor samples and showed significant negative correlations with PVRL4 levels. Infection with an MV strain that exclusively utilizes PVRL4 as its receptor showed that over‐expression of miR‐31/128 decreases MV infectivity while inhibition of the respective miRNAs via anti‐miRs increase MV infectivity and reduce tumor size in mouse xenograft models of glioblastoma, breast and ovarian cancer. Additionally, miR‐128 levels showed significant correlations with MV infection and in vivo anti‐tumor effect, while MV infection increased miR‐31 expression and thereby contributed to the observed decrease in PVRL4 levels. This study suggests that PVRL4 is post‐transcriptionally regulated by miR‐128 and miR‐31 and harbors possible miRNA targets that could modulate MV infectivity and in turn enhance MV based oncolytic therapeutic strategies.
Unpacking the curvilinear relationship between negative affectivity, performance, and turnover intentions: The moderating effect of time-related work stress
Authors: Bouckenooghe Dave , Raja Usman , Butt Arif Nazir , Abbas Muhammad , Bilgrami Sabahat
Published: July 2016

This study explores the relationships of negative affectivity with two frequently studied outcome variables job performance and turnover intentions. Conventional wisdom holds that negative affectivity has a harmful impact on both job performance and intentions to leave; however, we propose a more nuanced perspective using empirical and theoretical arguments (e.g., self-regulation theory) to highlight the functional effects of negative affectivity. To test our hypotheses, we collected self-reported and supervisor-reported data from seven organizations in Pakistan. The findings based on data collected from 280 employees show that while negative affectivity is detrimental for job performance, this effect is mitigated as negative affectivity increases. It further shows that the linear negative main effect of negative affectivity on job performance is more pronounced when employees experience less time-related work stress. Finally, the curvilinear relationship between negative affectivity and turnover intentions is moderated by time-related work stress. The relationship has a U shape at high levels of time-related work stress, whereas at low levels it has an inverted U shape. A discussion of the limitations, future research, and implications for theory building and practice conclude the article.
Sense of calling in the workplace: The moderating effect of supportive organizational climate in Taiwanese organizations
Authors: Lee Amber Yun-Ping , Chen I-Heng , Chang Po-Chien
Published: July 2016

The sense of calling has emerged as a burgeoning research interest for the past decade due to its close connection to the meaningfulness of work. However, the effects of a sense of calling and how it functions in the workplace remain unclear. This study aims at enhancing the concept of calling and understanding its application in organizations. Therefore, a cross-level model was proposed according to data collected from 24 organizations in Taiwan. As a result, our study demonstrated that sense of calling is positively related to individual performance, and the supportive organizational climate also plays an important role in the relationship between sense of calling and contextual performance. Consequently, by incorporating factors at both the organizational and individual levels into the mechanism of calling, a valuable insight into and application of an individual’s sense of calling in the work context has been established, and management implications were also provided.
Oral vitamin D supplementation at five times the recommended allowance marginally affects serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in dogs
Authors: Young Lauren R. , Backus Robert C.
Published: July 2016

Little is known regarding optimal vitamin D status in adult dogs. To date no studies on vitamin D supplementation for improving vitamin D status have been reported for adult dogs. The aims of this study were to identify dogs with low vitamin D status and evaluate an oral dosage of cholecalciferol (D3) for effectiveness in increasing vitamin D status. For this, forty-six privately owned dogs were evaluated. Of the dogs, thirty-three (or 71·7 %) had serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations less than 100 ng/ml, a minimum previously suggested for vitamin D sufficiency in dogs. Subsequently, thirteen dogs were enrolled in a supplementation trial. Dogs were given either a D3supplement (n7; 2·3 µg/kg0·75) or olive oil placebo (n6) daily with food. Serum concentrations of 25(OH)D were determined at weeks 1, 3 and 6, and at the trial end. Only at the trial end (weeks 9–10) was 25(OH)D significantly greater (P= 0·05) in supplementedv.placebo dogs. Serum concentrations of 24R,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol determined at the trial end were about 40 % of that of 25(OH)D3and not significantly different between the groups. Concentrations of parathyroid hormone, ionised Ca, P and creatinine measured in initial and final serum samples indicated supplementation caused no toxicity. We conclude that vitamin D3supplementation at a dosage near the National Research Council recommended safe-upper limit was not effective for rapidly raising serum 25(OH)D concentrations in healthy, adult dogs. Further work is needed in evaluating the metabolism of orally administered D3in dogs before dosing recommendations can be made.
Greenland surface mass-balance observations from the ice-sheet ablation area and local glaciers
Authors: MACHGUTH HORST , THOMSEN HENRIK H. , WEIDICK ANKER , AHLSTRØM ANDREAS P. , ABERMANN JAKOB , ANDERSEN MORTEN L. , ANDERSEN SIGNE B. , BJØRK ANDERS A. , BOX JASON E. , BRAITHWAITE ROGER J. , BØGGILD CARL E. , CITTERIO MICHELE , CLEMENT POUL , COLGAN WILLIAM , FAUSTO ROBERT S. , GLEIE KARIN , GUBLER STEFANIE , HASHOLT BENT , HYNEK BERNHARD , KNUDSEN NIELS T. , LARSEN SIGNE H. , MERNILD SEBASTIAN H. , OERLEMANS JOHANNES , OERTER HANS , OLESEN OLE B. , SMEETS C. J. P. PAUL , STEFFEN KONRAD , STOBER MANFRED , SUGIYAMA SHIN , VAN AS DIRK , VAN DEN BROEKE MICHIEL R. , VAN DE WAL RODERIK S. W.
Published: July 2016

Glacier surface mass-balance measurements on Greenland started more than a century ago, but no compilation exists of the observations from the ablation area of the ice sheet and local glaciers. Such data could be used in the evaluation of modelled surface mass balance, or to document changes in glacier melt independently from model output. Here, we present a comprehensive database of Greenland glacier surface mass-balance observations from the ablation area of the ice sheet and local glaciers. The database spans the 123 a from 1892 to 2015, contains a total of ~3000 measurements from 46 sites, and is openly accessible through the PROMICE web portal (http://www.promice.dk). For each measurement we provideX, YandZcoordinates, starting and ending dates as well as quality flags. We give sources for each entry and for all metadata. Two thirds of the data were collected from grey literature and unpublished archive documents. Roughly 60% of the measurements were performed by the Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland (GEUS, previously GGU). The data cover all regions of Greenland except for the southernmost part of the east coast, but also emphasize the importance of long-term time series of which there are only two exceeding 20 a. We use the data to analyse uncertainties in point measurements of surface mass balance, as well as to estimate surface mass-balance profiles for most regions of Greenland.
Influencing Readiness and Intentions to Offer Tobacco Dependence Treatment Through Training: King Hussein Cancer Center and Global Bridges Promoting an Underutilised Specialty in the Eastern Mediterranean Region
Authors: Hawari Feras I. , Bader Rasha K. , Obeidat Nour A. , Ayub Hiba S. , Ghonimat Iyad M. , Hays J. Taylor , Hurt Richard D.
Published: July 2016

Introduction:Although tobacco dependence treatment (TDT) is key to tobacco control, there continues to be a shortage of services in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). Barriers to offering services include the lack of training and education.

Aims:To create a network of healthcare providers (HCPs) capable of advancing TDT, King Hussein Cancer Center – the regional host for Global Bridges in the EMR – developed, implemented, and evaluated a regional TDT training programme.

Methods:The programme employed a predisposing–enabling–reinforcing framework, and utilised a combination of learning techniques. The evidence-informed curriculum aimed to influence knowledge, confidence, and competence, and the evaluation mechanism was aligned with these aims.

Results and discussion:Training produced a 37% and 23% gain in knowledge and TDT-specific competencies, respectively. The majority of participants reported that the workshops enhanced confidence, and 72% reported intentions for positive change. Participants rated the workshops highly, and anticipated value from joining Global Bridges network. Immediate outcomes indicate success in advancing participants’ self-efficacy and readiness to treat. Intentions for positive change may potentially be the first step in modifying practice.

Conclusion:Capacity building in TDT could be the first step in meeting the need for trained HCPs through positively influencing knowledge, confidence, competence, and intentions.
Presidential Address: Fourth Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Association: The Future of Representative Government
Authors: Judson F. N.
Published: July 2016

In the United States we have seen a revival of the ancient discussion concerning the line of demarcation between national and State authority under our complex federal system, but there is an underlying question which cannot have escaped the thoughtful observer involved in the growing popular distrust of the representative system whereon both federal and State governments are based. This tendency is being manifested in very material modifications in representative government, as understood by the founders of our government, and I therefore ask your attention to the consideration of The Future of Representative Government.

This form of government, wherein the sovereign power of law-making is wholly delegated to deputies elected by the people, is of comparatively modern origin, and in the modern sense of the term it was unknown to the ancients. While its origin is obscure, we know that it was in England that representative government found its development in the form in which it was so greatly impressed upon the framers of our Constitution. Sir Henry Maine in his Popular Government says that it was virtually England's discovery of government by representation which caused parliamentary institutions to be preserved in England from the destruction which overtook them everywhere else, and to devolve as an inheritance upon the United States.
In vitrofermentability and prebiotic potential of soyabean Okara by human faecal microbiota
Authors: Pérez-López E. , Cela D. , Costabile A. , Mateos-Aparicio I. , Rupérez P.
Published: July 2016

At present, there is a huge interest in finding new prebiotics from agrofood industrial waste, such as the soyabean by-product Okara, rich in insoluble dietary fibre. A previous treatment of Okara with high hydrostatic pressure assisted by the food-grade enzymeUltraflo®L achieved a 58·2 % increment in its soluble dietary fibre (SDF) contents. Therefore, potential prebiotic effect of both treated and native Okara was assayed using 48 h, pH-controlled, anaerobic batch cultures inoculated with human faecal slurries, which simulate the human gut. Changes in faecal microbiota were evaluated using 16S rRNA-based fluorescencein situhybridisation, whereas release of SCFA and lactic acid was assessed by HPLC. Both Okara samples exhibited potential prebiotic effects but Okara treated to maximise its SDF content showed higher SCFA plus lactic acid, better growth promotion of beneficial bacteria, including bifidobacteria after 4 and 48 h and lactobacilli after 4 h of fermentation, and a greater inhibition of potentially harmful bacterial groups such as clostridia and Bacteroides. Differences found between fructo-oligosaccharides and Okara substrates could be attributed to the great complexity of Okara’s cell wall, which would need longer times to be fermented than other easily digested molecules, thus allowing an extended potential prebiotic effect. These results support anin vitropotential prebiotic effect of Okara.
APULEIUS, METAMORPHOSES 11.23.5
Authors: Rudoni Elia R.
Published: July 2016

quaeras forsitan satis anxie, studiose lector, quid deinde dictum, quid factum. dicerem, si dicere liceret; cognosceres, si liceret audire. sed parem noxam contraherent et aures et lingua[e] < … > illae temerariae curiositatis.

In spite of the reader's curiosity, the narrator will not break the secrecy of Isis’ mysteries. Precisely an act of curiositas had brought about Lucius’ transformation into an ass; at the end of the novel he demonstrates that he has learnt his lesson.
‘WHY ARE DIONYSIAN ARTISTS MOSTLY WORTHLESS PEOPLE?’ ARISTOTLE'S ΠΡΟΒΛΗΜΑΤΑ ΕΓΚΥΚΛΙΑ IN CONTEXT
Authors: Meeusen Michiel
Published: July 2016

ὥστε καθάπερ τοὺς ὑποκρινομένους,

οὕτως ὑποληπτέον λέγειν καὶ τοὺς ἀκρατευομένους.

Arist. Eth. Nic. 7.3.1147a22-4

In Attic Nights (= NA) 20.4, Aulus Gellius reports how his Athenian teacher, the Platonist L. Calvenus Taurus (fl. c.a.d. 145), advised one of his pupils to temper his devotion to stage actors and to turn his attention to the study of philosophy. Wishing to divert his (rich) student from associating with theatre people (hominum scaenicorum), Taurus assigned the daily reading of a specific chapter from Aristotle's Προβλήματα Ἐγκύκλια (= fr. 209 Rose). He sent his student an extract from the book, which Gellius quotes (in Greek): ‘Why are Dionysian artists mostly worthless people?’—the problem is still extant in the Aristotelian collection of Problemata physica that came down to us (Pr. 30.10.956b11–15). The explanation Aristotle suggested (in Gellius’ version) is that ‘these men are least familiar with reason and philosophy (λόγου καὶ φιλοσοφίας), since they devote most of their life to the necessary arts (ἀναγκαίας τέχνας), and because they are in an intemperate state (ἐν ἀκρασίαις) most of the time, sometimes even in difficulties (ἐν ἀπορίαις), both of which conditions cause meanness (φαυλότητος)’.
Victory and Defeat: The Contentious Politics of One Generation of State Workers in China since the 1960s
Authors: Li Ju
Published: July 2016

By analysing and comparing three waves of contentious collective action employed by the pioneering generation of Chinese state workers at one particular state-owned enterprise from the 1960s to the present, this study aims to explain its varying forms and to analyse its effectiveness in different historical periods. I argue that the changing political opportunity structure in various historical contexts has greatly conditioned workers’ “repertoire of contention” at each moment and, hence, significantly affected the processes, strategies, and outcomes of workers’ contentious collective action. This article highlights the paradoxical role of the socialist social contract as a potential but crucial component of “the repertoire of contention”, by arguing that different interpretations of the contract, as conditioned by a certain political opportunity structure in different historical periods, could either empower or disempower workers. Both archival and oral history research are used in this study.
National Liberation for Whom? The Postcolonial Question, the Communist Party of Great Britain, and the Party’s African and Caribbean Membership
Authors: Smith Evan
Published: July 2016

The Communist Party of Great Britain (CPGB) had a long tradition of anti-colonial activism since its foundation in 1920 and had been a champion of national liberation within the British Empire. However, the Party also adhered to the idea that Britain’s former colonies, once independent, would want to join a trade relationship with their former coloniser, believing that Britain required these forms of relationship to maintain supplies of food and raw materials. This position was maintained into the 1950s until challenged in 1956–1957 by the Party’s African and Caribbean membership, seizing the opportunity presented by the fallout of the political crises facing the CPGB in 1956. I argue in this article that this challenge was an important turning point for the Communist Party’s view on issues of imperialism and race, and also led to a burst of anti-colonial and anti-racist activism. But this victory by its African and Caribbean members was short-lived, as the political landscape and agenda of the CPGB shifted in the late 1960s.
What Is the Nature of Hedge Fund Manager Skills? Evidence from the Risk-Arbitrage Strategy
Authors: Cao Charles , Goldie Bradley A. , Liang Bing , Petrasek Lubomir
Published: July 2016

To understand the nature of hedge fund managers’ skills, we study the implementation of risk arbitrage by hedge funds using their portfolio holdings and comparing them with those of other institutional arbitrageurs. We find that hedge funds significantly outperform a naive risk-arbitrage portfolio by 3.7% annually on a risk-adjusted basis, whereas non–hedge fund arbitrageurs fail to outperform the benchmark. Our analysis reveals that hedge funds’ superior performance does not reflect fund managers’ ability to predict or affect the outcome of merger and acquisition deals; rather, hedge fund managers’ superior performance is attributed to their ability to manage downside risk.
The Price of Street Friends: Social Networks, Informed Trading, and Shareholder Costs
Authors: Cai Jie , Walkling Ralph A. , Yang Ke
Published: July 2016

Recent studies suggest the transfer of privileged information via social ties but do not explicitly examine the cost of these ties to shareholders. We document a significant positive relation between stock transaction costs and a company’s social ties to the investment community. Social ties based on education and leisure activities, stronger ties, and ties to individuals responsible for trading have greater effects. Using investment connection deaths as natural experiments, we document that exogenous severance of ties reduces trading costs and trading activities by connected parties. Our evidence illustrates an important and previously undocumented consequence of social ties.
Corporate Boards and SEOs: The Effect of Certification and Monitoring
Authors: Ferreira Miguel , Laux Paul
Published: July 2016

In a sample of underwritten seasoned equity offerings (SEOs), issuers with boards dominated by independent directors experience higher abnormal announcement returns than issuers with boards dominated by insiders. Firm size, transparency, and other governance characteristics do not explain the effect of board independence. The positive relation between board independence and SEO returns is more pronounced for firms with lower monitoring costs and more severe financial constraints. The evidence suggests that independent directors have a positive effect because of their role in controlling both shareholder–manager conflicts (monitoring the use of funds) and current–new shareholder conflicts (certification of the issue’s value).
Risk, Uncertainty, and Expected Returns
Authors: Bali Turan G. , Zhou Hao
Published: July 2016

A conditional asset pricing model with risk and uncertainty implies that the time-varying exposures of equity portfolios to the market and uncertainty factors carry positive risk premia. The empirical results from the size, book-to-market, momentum, and industry portfolios indicate that the conditional covariances of equity portfolios with market and uncertainty predict the time-series and cross-sectional variation in stock returns. We find that equity portfolios that are highly correlated with economic uncertainty proxied by the variance risk premium (VRP) carry a significant annualized 8% premium relative to portfolios that are minimally correlated with VRP.
Delusional disorder and schizophrenia: a comparative study across multiple domains
Authors: Peralta V. , Cuesta M. J.
Published: July 2016

Background

Delusional disorder (DD) is an under-researched condition and its relationship to schizophrenia (SZ) controversial. This study aimed to further characterize DD and to examine multi-domain evidence for the distinction between DD and SZ.

Method

Using univariate analyses we examined 146 subjects with DD, 114 subjects with paranoid SZ and 244 subjects with non-paranoid SZ on 52 characteristics from several domains including demographics, risk factors, premorbid features, illness characteristics, index episode features, delusional-related features, response to treatment and outcome. In a further step, we searched for independent associations of the examined characteristics with DD v. SZ.

Results

Univariate analyses showed that DD differed from either form of SZ in 40 characteristics, the pattern of findings indicated that paranoid SZ was much more similar to non-paranoid SZ than DD. Relative to subjects with SZ, those with DD were more likely to have drug abuse before illness onset, better premorbid sexual adjustment, later age at illness onset, higher levels of affective symptoms and lack of insight, poorer response to antipsychotic medication, better functioning in the domains of personal care, paid work and social functioning; last, subjects with DD had fewer but more severe delusions and higher ratings of conviction of delusional experience than those with SZ. Predominance of jealousy and somatic delusions was confined to subjects with DD.

Conclusions

DD and SZ represent two distinct classes of disorders, the differential features of DD being of nosological, aetiological and therapeutic relevance.
The long-term outcome of subthreshold depression in later life
Authors: Jeuring H. W. , Huisman M. , Comijs H. C. , Stek M. L. , Beekman A. T. F.
Published: July 2016

Background

Subthreshold depression (SUBD) in later life is common and important as prodromal state and prominent risk factor in the development of major depressive disorder (MDD). Indicated prevention can reduce the incidence of MDD among people with SUBD substantially, but needs to be targeted to those that are truly at risk of developing MDD.

Method

N = 341 eligible participants with SUBD were included from the first (1992/1993), second (1995/1996) and third (1998/1999) cycle from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) by using a two-stage screening design. LASA is an ongoing prospective cohort study in The Netherlands among the older population (55–85 years). At baseline (1992/1993) N = 3107 participants were interviewed and follow-up cycles were conducted every 3 years until 2008/2009, resulting in maximal 17 years of observational period. The proportion of people that developed MDD, remained SUBD, or recovered from SUBD was measured and Cox proportional regression analyses were performed to investigate 29 putative predictors of MDD and recovery from SUBD.

Results

N = 153 (44.9%) recovered from SUBD, N = 138 (40.5%) remained chronically SUBD, and N = 50 (14.7%) developed MDD (incidence rate 15.1/1000 person-years). Women, high neuroticism, more chronic diseases, high body mass index, smoking and less social support predicted conversion to MDD. Men, low neuroticism and absence of pain predicted recovery from SUBD.

Conclusions

Although older people with SUBD are clearly at risk of developing MDD, the majority did not, even after a long and thorough follow-up. Given the risk factors that were uncovered, targeting and prevention of MDD in those at very high risk is feasible.
Elementary English education in Indonesia: Policy developments, current practices, and future prospects
Authors: Zein Mochamad Subhan
Published: July 2016

With a current figure reaching more than 26 million (Kementrian, 2015), Indonesia is second after China in terms of the number of children learning English as a foreign language in elementary schools. This paper examines the development of elementary English education in Indonesia, and shows that it has been undergoing a great transformation in recent years. The paper begins by providing an overview of policy developments relating to elementary English education in the country. It then discusses current practices in elementary English education in relevant areas, focusing in particular on classroom size and length of instruction, the role and status of teachers, and pedagogical concerns. Finally, the paper analyzes the prospects for elementary English education in the foreseeable future.
Patterns of tree species composition at watershed-scale in the Amazon ‘arc of deforestation’: implications for conservation
Authors: MORANDI PAULO SÉRGIO , MARIMON BEATRIZ SCHWANTES , EISENLOHR PEDRO V. , MARIMON-JUNIOR BEN HUR , OLIVEIRA-SANTOS CLAUDINEI , FELDPAUSCH TED R. , DE OLIVEIRA EDMAR ALMEIDA , REIS SIMONE MATIAS , LLOYD JON , PHILLIPS OLIVER L.
Published: July 2016

The loss of biodiversity in transitional forests between the Cerrado and Amazonia, the two largest neotropical phytogeographic domains, is an issue of great concern. This extensive region is located within the ‘arc of deforestation’ zone where tropical forests are being lost at the fastest rate on the planet, but floristic diversity and variation among forests here is still poorly understood. We aimed to characterize the floristic composition of forests in this zone and explored the degree and drivers of differentiation within and across Araguaia and Xingu watersheds. In 10 sites we identified all trees with diameter ≥10 cm; these totaled 4944 individuals in 257 species, 107 genera and 52 families. We evaluated the data for multivariate variation using TWINSPAN and DCA to understand the species distribution among sites. There was a larger contribution from the Amazonian flora (169 species) than that of the Cerrado (109) to the transitional forests. Remarkably, 142 species (55%) were restricted to only one sampling site, while 29 species (>16%) are endemic to Brazil, suggesting potentially large loss of species and unique forest communities with the loss and fragmentation of large areas. Our results also suggest that watersheds may be a critical factor driving species distribution among forests in the Amazonian–Cerrado transition zone, and quantifying their role can provide powerful insight into devising better conservation strategies for the remaining forests.
Effect of waist circumference on the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and serum lipids: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–2006
Authors: Vogt Susanne , Baumert Jens , Peters Annette , Thorand Barbara , Scragg Robert
Published: July 2016

Objective

To examine the interaction between waist circumference (WC) and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level in their associations with serum lipids.

Design

Cross-sectional study. The associations of serum 25(OH)D with total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), LDL-C:HDL-C and TAG were examined using multiple linear regression. Effect modification by WC was assessed through cross-product interaction terms between 25(OH)D and WC categories (abdominal overweight, 80–<88 cm in females/94–<102 cm in males; abdominal obesity, ≥88 cm in females/≥102 cm in males).

Setting

The US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey waves 2001–2006.

Subjects

Non-pregnant fasting participants (n 4342) aged ≥20 years.

Results

Lower 25(OH)D levels were significantly associated with lower HDL-C levels as well as with higher LDL-C:HDL-C and TAG levels in abdominally obese participants, but not in abdominally overweight or normal-waist participants. In contrast, lower 25(OH)D levels were associated with lower levels of total cholesterol and LDL-C in abdominally overweight and normal-waist participants only, but this association was only partly significant. However, a significant difference in the association between 25(OH)D and the lipids according to WC category was found only for LDL-C:HDL-C (P for interaction=0·02).

Conclusions

Our results from this large, cross-sectional sample suggest that the association between lower 25(OH)D levels and an unfavourable lipid profile is stronger in individuals with abdominal obesity than in those with abdominal overweight or a normal WC.