bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Free-labeling facial expressions and emotional situations in children aged 3–7 years
Authors: Wang Zhenhong , Lü Wei , Zhang Hui , Surina Alyssa
Published: April 2014

Chinese children ( N = 185, aged 3–7 years) were assessed on their abilities to freely label facial expressions and emotional situations. Results indicated that the overall accuracy of free-labeling facial expressions increased relatively quickly in children aged 3–5 years, but slowed down in children aged 5–7 years. In contrast, the overall accuracy of free-labeling emotional situations increased continuously in children aged 3–7 years. In the free-labeling facial expression tasks, children produced labels for happiness, anger, and sadness more easily than fear, surprise, and disgust; in the free-labeling of emotional situation tasks, children produced labels for happiness and sadness more easily than fear, anger, surprise, and disgust. Children performed better on free-labeling emotional situations than on free-labeling facial expressions, especially for happiness, sadness, fear, surprise, and disgust, which confirmed the Face Inferiority Effect. Moreover, the Face Inferiority Effect could be obviously observed in children aged 4 years and became more pronounced with age. Additionally, Bullock & Russell’s model was partly supported in the present study.
Aggressive and prosocial behaviors
Authors: Wurster Tabitha , Xie Hongling
Published: April 2014

This study examined the social functioning of bistrategic youths (i.e., those who employ both aggressive and prosocial behavior) in order to further understand their social competence in peer social networks. Within our sample of 318 fifth-grade participants recruited from an urban school district in the northeastern US, bistrategic preadolescents were identified, along with aggressives, prosocials, typicals, and noncontrollers. Bistrategic youths were found to hold the highest individual status and group status among all five subtypes within the network. Bistrategic youths and other active controller youths (i.e., prosocials and aggressives) were more likely to associate with peers of the same subtype in social groups. In addition, bistrategics who associated with same subtype (i.e., homogenous) peers held elevated group status, whereas bistrategics who associated with non-homogenous peers held heightened individual status. Further, results illustrate how bistrategics selectively target highly popular peers as victims of social aggression. Findings extend previous research by demonstrating the social success of bistrategic youths based on their high individual and group status, and by illuminating their strategic employment of different forms of aggression towards peers of different popularity status.
How does community service promote prosocial behavior? Examining the role of agency and ideology experience
Authors: Christoph Gabriela , Gniewosz Burkhard , Reinders Heinz
Published: April 2014

This study examines community service effects on adolescents’ prosocial behaviors as mediated through experiences made during service. Based on theoretical assumptions by Youniss and Yates, we suggest that personal agency experiences and being confronted with situations that can challenge the own world views (ideology experiences) serve as mediators. The data were collected in a two-wave longitudinal study surveying 2,408 German adolescents aged between 14 and 15 years. Based on true intraindividual change models, the results support the expected mediation of service effects on prosocial behaviors through agency, but not ideology experiences. The findings suggest that community service affects prosocial behaviors through a behavioral pathway.
Supranational constitutional politics and the method of rational reconstruction
Authors: Patberg Markus
Published: April 2014

In The Crisis of the European Union Jürgen Habermas claims that the constituent power in the EU is shared between the community of EU citizens and the political communities of the member states. By his own account, Habermas arrives at this concept of a dual constituent subject through a rational reconstruction of the genesis of the European constitution. This explanation, however, is not particularly illuminating since it is controversial what the term ‘rational reconstruction’ stands for. This article critically discusses the current state of research on rational reconstruction, develops a new reading of Habermas’ method and invokes this account for an explanation and evaluation of the notion of a European pouvoir constituant mixte.
Extra-prostatic Transgene-associated Neoplastic Lesions in Transgenic Adenocarcinoma of the Mouse Prostate (TRAMP) Mice
Authors: Berman-Booty Lisa D. , Thomas-Ahner Jennifer M. , Bolon Brad , Oglesbee Michael J. , Clinton Steven K. , Kulp Samuel K. , Chen Ching-Shih , La Perle Krista M. D.
Published: April 2014

Male transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice are frequently used in prostate cancer research because their prostates consistently develop a series of preneoplastic and neoplastic lesions. Disease progression in TRAMP mouse prostates culminates in metastatic, poorly differentiated carcinomas with neuroendocrine features. The androgen dependence of the rat probasin promoter largely limits transgene expression to the prostatic epithelium. However, extra-prostatic transgene-positive lesions have been described in TRAMP mice, including renal tubuloacinar carcinomas, neuroendocrine carcinomas of the urethra, and phyllodes-like tumors of the seminal vesicle. Here, we describe the histologic and immunohistochemical features of 2 novel extra-prostatic lesions in TRAMP mice: primary anaplastic tumors of uncertain cell origin in the midbrain and poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas of the submandibular salivary gland. These newly characterized tumors apparently result from transgene expression in extra-prostatic locations rather than representing metastatic prostate neoplasms because lesions were identified in both male and female mice and in male TRAMP mice without histologically apparent prostate tumors. In this article, we also calculate the incidences of the urethral carcinomas and renal tubuloacinar carcinomas, further elucidate the biological behavior of the urethral carcinomas, and demonstrate the critical importance of complete necropsies even when evaluating presumably well characterized phenotypes in genetically engineered mice.
Anxiety Symptoms in African American Youth
Authors: Carter Rona
Published: April 2014

This study examined the effects of pubertal status, pubertal timing (actual and perceived), and youth biological sex on symptom dimensions of anxiety (i.e., social, separation, harm avoidance, physical) in African Americans ( n = 252; ages 8-12). For girls, results indicated that pubertal status and timing (actual) exerted similar effects for some symptom dimensions of anxiety but not others. Early pubertal timing predicted high levels of physical symptoms, whereas beginning puberty (i.e., no menarche, but either breasts or pubic hair growth) and early pubertal timing predicted high levels of harm avoidance. For boys, only perceived pubertal timing predicted high levels of social, separation, harm avoidance, and physical symptoms. Pubertal effects (status and timing [actual]) on harm avoidance and physical symptoms were stronger for girls than for boys. These findings extend the literature on anxiety in African American youth and may help identify novel, high-risk subgroups of this population for targeted prevention and intervention programs.
Focusing on the spatial non-stationarity of landslide predisposing factors in northern Iceland
Authors: Feuillet Thierry , Coquin Julien , Mercier Denis , Cossart Etienne , Decaulne Armelle , Jónsson Helgi Páll , Sæmundsson þorsteinn
Published: April 2014

Most studies focusing on landslide spatial analysis have considered the relationships between predictors and landslide occurrence as fixed effects. Yet spatially varying relationships, i.e. non-stationarity, often occur in any spatial data set and should be theoretically considered in statistical models for a better fit. In Skagafjörður, a landslide-rich north–south oriented area located in northern Iceland, we investigated whether spatial non-stationarity in the relationships between paraglacial variables (glacio-isostatic rebound and post-glacial debuttressing, both captured in this area by latitude) and landslide locations is detectable. To explore the non-stationarity of factors that predispose landslide occurrence, we performed two logistic regression models, one global (GLR) and the other enabling the regression parameters to vary locally (geographically weighted logistic regression, GWLR). Each model was computed with two types of outcome, one based on the entire masses of landslides and the other only on the scarps of landslides. GLR results reveal that increasing latitude is associated with increasing probability of landslide occurrence, confirming that post-glacial rebound is of prime importance at the regional scale. Nevertheless, GWLR indicates that this relationship is absent or reversed at some locations, meaning that the influence of paraglacial and other predisposing factors of landsliding (slope, valley depth and curvature) vary at the local scale. This result sheds light on the spatial clustering of three subzones where landsliding drivers are homogeneous. We conclude that a GWR-based approach provides some significant inputs for spatial analysis of mass movement processes, by identifying multi-scale process control zones and by highlighting local drivers, indecipherable in global models.
Second-Look Arthroscopic Evaluation of Cartilage Lesions After Mesenchymal Stem Cell Implantation in Osteoarthritic Knees
Authors: Koh Yong Gon , Choi Yun Jin , Kwon Oh Ryong , Kim Yong Sang
Published: April 2014

Background:

Cartilage regenerative procedures have been receiving increased interest because of their potential to alter the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). The application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been proposed as a new treatment option for OA based on the ability of these cells to differentiate into chondrocytes.

Purpose:

To investigate the clinical and second-look arthroscopic outcomes of MSC implantation and to identify prognostic factors associated with this treatment.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This study retrospectively evaluated 37 knees examined using second-look arthroscopic surgery after MSC implantation for cartilage lesions in OA knees. Clinical outcomes were evaluated according to the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and Tegner activity scale, and cartilage repair was assessed using International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grading. Statistical analyses were performed to identify various prognostic factors associated with the clinical and second-look arthroscopic outcomes.

Results:

The mean patient age was 57.4 years (range, 48-69 years), the mean follow-up period was 26.5 months (range, 24-34 months), the mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.3 kg/m2 (range, 19.8-31.2 kg/m2), and the mean lesion size was 5.4 ± 2.9 cm2 (range, 2.3-8.9 cm2). The mean IKDC and Tegner activity scale scores were significantly improved from 38.0 ± 7.8 to 61.0 ± 11.0 and from 2.5 ± 0.5 to 3.6 ± 0.7, respectively ( P < .001 for both). According to the ICRS overall repair grades at second-look arthroscopic surgery, 2 of the 37 lesions (5%) were grade I (normal), 7 (19%) were grade II (near normal), 20 (54%) were grade III (abnormal), and 8 (22%) were grade IV (severely abnormal). In terms of overall patient satisfaction with the operation, 33 (94%) patients reported good to excellent satisfaction. High BMI (≥27.5 kg/m2) and large lesion size (≥5.4 cm2) were found to be significant predictors of poor clinical and arthroscopic outcomes ( P < .05 for both). Other prognostic factors, including patient age, sex, cartilage lesion location, and presence of subchondral cysts, did not significantly influence the outcomes ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

The outcomes of MSC implantation for cartilage repair in OA knees seem encouraging; high BMI and large lesion size are important factors affecting outcomes. Although still in the early stages of application, MSC implantation for cartilage repair may have great potential for the treatment of OA knees. However, second-look arthroscopic findings revealed that 76% had the repair rated as abnormal or severely abnormal by ICRS standards. The development of an advanced surgical procedure with tissue-engineered scaffolds may be needed to treat patients with large cartilage lesions.
Analysis on the process of stress transferring and characterization on the property of “interphase” in three-phase single-fiber composites
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Liu Changxi , Tang Zhanwen , Wang Yunlong
Published: April 2014

In this study, two micro-mechanical models for analyzing the stress transferring in single-fiber composites composed of the fiber, the matrix, and the interphase are developed based on the shear-lag theory. The analytical model has taken into account two micro-damage modes, that is, the interficial debonding and the matrix damage, respectively. So, the real distribution of the shear stress at the interface and the axial stress in the fiber in single-fiber composites under loading can be obtained. An approach based on combining the micro-mechanical model with the single-fiber fragmentation test was utilized to determine the property of the interphase. The more accurate and real shear strength of the interphase in single-fiber composites is determined compared with the previous methods.
Biohydrogen, biomethane and bioelectricity as crucial components of biorefinery of organic wastes: A review
Authors: Poggi-Varaldo Héctor M , Munoz-Paez Karla M , Escamilla-Alvarado Carlos , Robledo-Narváez Paula N , Ponce-Noyola M Teresa , Calva-Calva Graciano , Ríos-Leal Elvira , Galíndez-Mayer Juvencio , Estrada-Vázquez Carlos , Ortega-Clemente Alfredo , Rinderknecht-Seijas Noemí F
Published: April 2014

Biohydrogen is a sustainable form of energy as it can be produced from organic waste through fermentation processes involving dark fermentation and photofermentation. Very often biohydrogen is included as a part of biorefinery approaches, which reclaim organic wastes that are abundant sources of renewable and low cost substrate that can be efficiently fermented by microorganisms. The aim of this work was to critically assess selected bioenergy alternatives from organic solid waste, such as biohydrogen and bioelectricity, to evaluate their relative advantages and disadvantages in the context of biorefineries, and ﬁnally to indicate the trends for future research and development. Biorefining is the sustainable processing of biomass into a spectrum of marketable products, which means: energy, materials, chemicals, food and feed. Dark fermentation of organic wastes could be the beach-head of complete biorefineries that generate biohydrogen as a first step and could significantly influence the future of solid waste management. Series systems show a better efficiency than one-stage process regarding substrate conversion to hydrogen and bioenergy. The dark fermentation also produces fermented by-products (fatty acids and solvents), so there is an opportunity for further combining with other processes that yield more bioenergy. Photoheterotrophic fermentation is one of them: photosynthetic heterotrophs, such as non-sulfur purple bacteria, can thrive on the simple organic substances produced in dark fermentation and light, to give more H2. Effluents from photoheterotrophic fermentation and digestates can be processed in microbial fuel cells for bioelectricity production and methanogenic digestion for methane generation, thus integrating a diverse block of bioenergies. Several digestates from bioenergies could be used for bioproducts generation, such as cellulolytic enzymes and saccharification processes, leading to ethanol fermentation (another bioenergy), thus completing the inverse cascade. Finally, biohydrogen, biomethane and bioelectricity could contribute to significant improvements for solid organic waste management in agricultural regions, as well as in urban areas.
An Overview of the Diagnosis and Management of Nutrition in Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Afghani Elham , Sinha Amitasha , Singh Vikesh K.
Published: April 2014

Chronic pancreatitis is characterized by long‐standing inflammation of the pancreas, which results in fibrosis and the gradual loss of pancreatic function. The loss of islets and acinar cells results in diabetes and exocrine insufficiency, respectively. Exocrine insufficiency can result in maldigestion of fat, protein, and carbohydrate as well as vitamins and minerals. Patients may present with variable severity of disease, from mild to severe. The diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis can be challenging, especially in patients with early or mild disease who have few to no morphologic abnormalities on standard abdominal imaging studies. A number of imaging modalities and tests have evolved to aid in the diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis based on changes in structure or function. Clinicians typically focus on treating pain in chronic pancreatitis as opposed to exocrine insufficiency, despite the fact that maldigestion and malabsorption can result in nutrition deficiencies. The aims of this review are to describe the various modalities used to diagnose chronic pancreatitis, to illustrate the nutrition deficiencies associated with exocrine insufficiency, and to provide an overview of nutrition assessment and treatment in these patients.
Relationship Between Fat‐Soluble Vitamin Supplementation and Blood Concentrations in Adolescent and Adult Patients With Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Siwamogsatham Oranan , Dong Wei , Binongo Jose N. , Chowdhury Ritam , Alvarez Jessica A. , Feinman Shawna J. , Enders Jessica , Tangpricha Vin
Published: April 2014

Background: Pancreatic insufficiency is common in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and leads to malabsorption of fat‐soluble vitamins. Multivitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, are routinely prescribed to patients with CF to prevent vitamin deficiencies. Our objective was to examine the relationship between fat‐soluble vitamin supplements and their impact on blood concentrations. Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of patients with CF who were treated at Emory Clinic and Emory University Hospital during 2008–2012. The amount of fat‐soluble vitamin supplementation, serum markers of fat‐soluble vitamin concentrations, CF transmembrane conductance regulator genotype, and other demographic information were recorded from electronic medical records. Mixed‐effects models were used to investigate the trends over time of fat‐soluble vitamin supplements and serum vitamin concentrations. Results: In total, 177 charts were eligible. Mean (SD) age was 26.1 (10.2) years. Ninety‐two percent of patients had pancreatic insufficiency and 52% had the homozygous ΔF508 mutation. Recorded fat‐soluble vitamin supplementation increased in the past 5 years (P < .001 for all). Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D increased slightly (3% increase; P < .01); however, there were no changes in the blood concentrations of vitamins A, E, and K (P = .26–.96). Conclusions: Despite a near doubling of recorded fat‐soluble vitamin supplementation over the past 5 years, there was no parallel increase in blood concentrations of these vitamins. Potential reasons include suboptimal dosages, low adherence, or ongoing issues with malabsorption.
The Bulgarian Constitutional Court as an Additional Legislative Chamber
Authors: Hanretty Chris
Published: April 2014

Although not the most prolific of courts, the Bulgarian Constitutional Court (BCC) has now made enough decisions for us to begin characterising its decision making. Generally, decision making on the BCC is characterised by a low caseload dominated by referrals from parliament, by a high level of dissent, and by dissent that in turn is characterised by a disagreement between left- and right-wing judges. I make these claims on the basis of an analysis of BCC decisions over the period 1991 to 2010, and in particular on the basis of an analysis of judges’ dissenting votes as the expression of an underlying latent trait. I argue that this latent trait should be interpreted as a left–right dimension, both because the positions on this latent dimension match descriptions of judges’ politics and the politics of those who appointed, and because court majorities from the right end of the recovered dimension are often found when ruling in favour of right-wing opposition groups. On the basis of these findings, I argue for an interpretation of the BCC as an additional legislative chamber, comparable in this respect to the French Conseil Constitutionnel.
Positive Employment Practices or Reputational Capital? Tensions Inherent in Third-Party Legitimation Processes
Authors: Zorn Theodore E. , Roper Juliet , Richardson Margaret
Published: April 2014

In this article, we examine organizations’ discourse around the Best Places to Work (BPTW) initiative in New Zealand. Through interviews with managers of participating organizations, we examined the dialectical tensions presented by participation in BPTW and how participants responded to these. Findings reveal that organizations enter BPTW motivated by a desire to improve human resource practices or organizational image, or both. Improving practice and/or image holds the promise of greater control over outcomes of importance, such as enhanced reputational capital. However, organizations must assess the risks of entering and exiting BPTW, which include a potential loss of legitimacy. From such assessments, the central dialectics emerge: substance–image and risk–control. Organizations manage these dialectics through four discursive responses: selection, separation, integration, and withdrawal.
Acquired Thrombophilia
Authors: Armstrong Emily M. , Bellone Jessica M. , Hornsby Lori B. , Treadway Sarah , Phillippe Haley M.
Published: April 2014

Acquired thrombophilia is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is the most prevalent acquired thrombophilia and is associated with both venous and arterial thromboses. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is another form of acquired thrombophilia. Risk factors associated with VTE in this population include those related to the disease itself, host factors, and the pharmacotherapy for HIV. A significant proportion of VTE events occur in patients with malignancies. There is an increase in mortality associated with patients having cancer who experience VTE when compared to patients having cancer without VTE. Combination oral contraceptive (COC) use infers risk of thromboembolic events. The risk is dependent upon the presence of an underlying inherited thrombophilia, the estrogen dose, and generation of progestin. Patients at highest risk of VTE include those receiving high-dose estrogen and fourth-generation, progesterone-containing contraceptives. With the exception of APS, thrombophilia status does not alter the acute treatment of an initial VTE in nonpregnant patients.
Pregnancy-Related Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Armstrong Emily M. , Bellone Jessica M. , Hornsby Lori B. , Treadway Sarah , Phillippe Haley M.
Published: April 2014

Pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), with a reported incidence ranging from 0.49 to 2 events per 1000 deliveries. Risk factors include advanced maternal age, obesity, smoking, and cesarian section. Women with a history of previous VTE are at a 4-fold higher risk of recurrent thromboembolic events during subsequent pregnancies. Additionally, the presence of concomitant thrombophilia, particularly factor V Leiden (homozygosity), prothrombin gene mutation (homozygosity), or antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), increases the risk of pregnancy-related VTE. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and unfractionated heparin (UFH) are the drugs of choice for anticoagulation during pregnancy. LMWH is preferred due to ease of use and lower rates of adverse events. Women with high thromboembolic risk particularly those with a family history of VTE should receive antepartum thromboprophylaxis. Women with low thromboembolic risk or previous VTE caused by a transient risk factor (ie, provoked), who have no family history of VTE, may undergo antepartum surveillance. Postpartum anticoagulation can be considered in women with both high and low thromboembolic risk.
A framework for computer-aided type synthesis of parallel robotic mechanisms
Authors: Meng Xiangdun , Gao Feng
Published: April 2014

In this paper, a framework for computer-aided type synthesis of parallel mechanisms (PMs) is described and the integrated type synthesis software based on the GF sets theory is developed for the first time. The objective of the software was to automate and facilitate type synthesis of PMs. The GF sets theory introduced in our earlier works is an effective type synthesis approach with high execution level. This approach is implemented in a software tool. Algorithms for number synthesis of PMs, decomposition of GF sets, and limbs design method are developed. The computer-aided type synthesis software shows intelligence and self-learning ability of a certain level. Guided by the software, users can complete type synthesis of PMs smoothly with some complex calculations done by the software. The validity of the proposed software is verified through a design example. The design cycle and cost of machinery products using PMs will be reduced with help of the software.
An analysis of job satisfaction among Croatian librarians as support to library human resource management
Authors: Dukić Gordana , Dukić Darko
Published: April 2014

In the ICT-dominated world, libraries are facing major challenges in an attempt to fulfil their functions. If libraries are to respond adequately to rapid and complex changes, they need highly skilled and motivated employees. As people are an organization’s greatest asset, human resource management in libraries should be given proper attention. Different questions related to job satisfaction are definitely crucial for efficient human resource management. This paper presents the results of research focused on the way in which librarians in Eastern Croatia perceive certain aspects of their work. The analysis shows that Eastern Croatian librarians have a relatively positive attitude to their work, but they are less satisfied with their social status, salary levels, working conditions, possibilities for further training, and interpersonal relations at work. To a large extent, the results of this study indicate that human resource management in Eastern Croatian libraries needs to be improved. Statistical methods were also used to examine the differences in librarians’ opinions with regard to gender, age, professional title and the type of libraries they work in.
Penalized count data regression with application to hospital stay after pediatric cardiac surgery
Authors: Wang Zhu , Ma Shuangge , Zappitelli Michael , Parikh Chirag , Wang Ching-Yun , Devarajan Prasad
Published: April 2014

Pediatric cardiac surgery may lead to poor outcomes such as acute kidney injury (AKI) and prolonged hospital length of stay (LOS). Plasma and urine biomarkers may help with early identification and prediction of these adverse clinical outcomes. In a recent multi-center study, 311 children undergoing cardiac surgery were enrolled to evaluate multiple biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of AKI and other clinical outcomes. LOS is often analyzed as count data, thus Poisson regression and negative binomial (NB) regression are common choices for developing predictive models. With many correlated prognostic factors and biomarkers, variable selection is an important step. The present paper proposes new variable selection methods for Poisson and NB regression. We evaluated regularized regression through penalized likelihood function. We first extend the elastic net (Enet) Poisson to two penalized Poisson regression: Mnet, a combination of minimax concave and ridge penalties; and Snet, a combination of smoothly clipped absolute deviation (SCAD) and ridge penalties. Furthermore, we extend the above methods to the penalized NB regression. For the Enet, Mnet, and Snet penalties (EMSnet), we develop a unified algorithm to estimate the parameters and conduct variable selection simultaneously. Simulation studies show that the proposed methods have advantages with highly correlated predictors, against some of the competing methods. Applying the proposed methods to the aforementioned data, it is discovered that early postoperative urine biomarkers including NGAL, IL18, and KIM-1 independently predict LOS, after adjusting for risk and biomarker variables.
A retrospective study of equine actinobacillosis cases
Authors: Layman Quinci D. , Rezabek Grant B. , Ramachandran Akhilesh , Love Brenda C. , Confer Anthony W.
Published: April 2014

Several Actinobacillus spp. are common commensal bacteria of the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and reproductive tract of horses and can cause disease in both foals and adults. The current retrospective study was designed to review Actinobacillus spp. isolated from clinical samples or necropsies of 99 horses during 1999–2011. The cases consisted of 43 foals (<6 months of age), 4 young adults (6 months–2 years), 39 adults (>2 years of age), 2 aborted fetuses, and 11 with unspecified ages. Clinical history, signs, bacterial species isolated, and associated lesions were documented. Actinobacillus spp. were isolated 111 times. The most common isolates were Actinobacillus equuli subsp. equuli (38.7%) and hemolytic Actinobacillus spp. (24.3%). Other isolates were Actinobacillus lignieresii (5.4%), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (1.8%), and unclassified Actinobacillus spp. (28.8%). Actinobacillus equuli subsp. equuli was most commonly isolated from clinical and necropsy cases of septicemia and respiratory disease in both foals and adults. Embolic nephritis, the classical septicemic lesion of equine neonatal actinobacillosis, was also present in several adult septicemic actinobacillosis cases. Predisposing factors such as failure of passive transfer of colostral antibodies as well as concurrent pathogenic bacterial or viral infections were present in numerous actinobacillosis cases. There were many cases, however, for which a predisposing factor or concurrent infection was not documented or apparent, suggesting that Actinobacillus spp. can be primary pathogens under the right circumstances and in the right location.
The Carotid Intima–Media Thickness Modification Following Atorvastatin is Bound to the Modification of the Oxidative Balance
Authors: Belcaro Gianni , Cornelli Umberto , Finco Annarosa
Published: April 2014

Background:

Despite the reduction in cholesterol (CH) levels, the modification of carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT) is not evident in all the patients treated with statins. Activities other than CH reduction may determine the improvement in CIMT.

Methods:

Twenty-two patients with hypercholesterolemia (aged 45-60; males) with CIMT increase started the treatment with atorvastatin. The CIMT (via echography), CH level, and the oxidative balance (OB) were measured at baseline and after 4 weeks. The OB consisted of the determination of the plasmatic hydroperoxides (reactive oxygen metabolites [d-ROMs] test) and the antioxidant reserve (plasma antioxidants test [PAT]). The d-ROMs/CH and PAT/CH ratios allowed to measure, respectively, the oxidative index (OI) and the protective index (PI). The OI/PI ratio represented the OB Risk Index (OBRI) to be compared with the CIMT modifications.

Results:

An average reduction of 22% in CH was achieved in the group of patients together with an increase in both OI and PI (16% and 39% respectively) with a significant improvement in OBRI from 2.6 to 1.7 (analysis of variance P < .01). A reduction of >20% in CIMT was obtained in 10 patients whereas in the 12 patients no modification of CIMT was detected, despite the same CH reduction (−55 ± 24.8 and −66 ± 27.1 mg/dL respectively; P > .05). Only those patients with a decrease in OBRI ≥0.8 showed a reduction in CIMT >20%.

Conclusions:

In this preliminary study, a significant modification in CIMT was obtained with atorvastatin treatment only in those patients showing an improvement in the OB (OBRI > 0.8).
Gene Therapy for Restoring Heart Rhythm
Authors: Boink Gerard J. J. , Robinson Richard B.
Published: April 2014

Efforts to use gene therapy to create a biological pacemaker as an adjunct or replacement of electronic pacemakers have been ongoing for about 15 years. For the past decade, most of these efforts have focused on the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide gated-(HCN) gene family of channels alone or in combination with other genes. The HCN gene family is the molecular correlate of the cardiac pacemaker current, If. It is a suitable basis for a biological pacemaker because it generates a depolarizing inward current primarily during diastole and is directly regulated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), thereby incorporating autonomic responsiveness. However, biological pacemakers based either on native HCN channels or on mutated HCN channels designed to optimize biophysical characteristics have failed to attain the desired basal and maximal physiological heart rates in large animals. More recent work has explored dual gene therapy approaches, combining an HCN variant with another gene to reduce outward current, increase an additional inward current, or enhance cAMP synthesis. Several of these dual gene therapy approaches have demonstrated appropriate basal and maximal heart rates with little or no reliance on a backup electronic pacemaker during the period of study. Future research, besides examining the efficacy of other gene combinations, will need to consider the additional issues of safety and persistence of the viral vectors often used to deliver these genes to a specific cardiac region.
Dyadic Profiles of Parental Disciplinary Behavior and Links With Parenting Context
Authors: Kim Jinseok , Lee Shawna J. , Taylor Catherine A. , Guterman Neil
Published: April 2014

Using data from couples ( N = 1,195) who participated in a large community-based study of families, we used maternal reports of parental discipline to examine mothers’ and fathers’ use of and patterns related to aggressive and nonviolent discipline of their 3-year-old child. First, we separately examined mothers’ and fathers’ patterns, or classes, of disciplinary behaviors. Second, we identified joint mother–father class profiles. Maternal reports indicated that the patterns among fathers and mothers were similar, but fathers were more likely to be in the low-aggression classes than mothers; and mothers were more likely to be in the high-aggression classes than fathers. Dyads in which both parents employed high levels of aggressive discipline were characterized by higher parenting stress, poorer parental relationship, and lower quality community context. The majority (81.2%) of dyads used congruent disciplinary behaviors. Discordant dyads were similar to dyads in which both parents were high in aggressive discipline, in that these groups had children with the highest levels of aggressive behavior. Implications highlight the need to target both mothers and fathers with parent education efforts to reinforce positive parenting.
ADHD in the College Setting
Authors: Thomas Mark , Rostain Anthony , Corso Regina , Babcock Thomas , Madhoo Manisha
Published: April 2014

Objective: To assess perceptions concerning ADHD among U.S. college healthcare providers. Method: A 37-question survey was conducted from October 4 to December 2, 2010. Participants were contacted via mail or telephone and compensated for participation. Results: Thirty-eight percent of the respondents (physicians, n = 59; nurses, n = 138; directors, n = 101) viewed ADHD as a “problem”/“very much a problem” at their institution. Referrals for evaluation came from students (84%), psychologists/counselors (68%), or the institution (68%). Although 48% of respondents felt “comfortable”/“very comfortable” in their ability to recognize ADHD, 92% referred students for evaluation. Most respondents (>90%) agreed medication use may be warranted; 52% of respondents who treat ADHD or consult with a specialist (from 95% of physicians to 31% of directors) prescribed pharmacotherapy. Conclusion: Although college healthcare providers recognize the importance of treating ADHD, their discomfort in diagnosing and treating ADHD represents a barrier to care for college students.
Sixty-Seven Consecutive Resuscitative Thoracotomies by A Single Surgeon
Authors: Rabinovici R.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Resuscitative thoracotomy is a dramatic operation performed in otherwise unsalvageable trauma patients. Analysis of its efficacy is based mostly on institutional series compiling the experience of multiple surgeons. This study aimed to report more consistent information by describing the resuscitative thoracotomy practice of a single surgeon and its evolution during more than two decades.

Methods:

A retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent resuscitative thoracotomy in July 1990 to December 2012. Demographics, mechanism of injury, signs of life, injuries, and outcomes were analyzed. Comparisons were made between penetrating and blunt trauma patients and between pre- and post-introduction of a selective resuscitative thoracotomy protocol.

Results:

Sixty-seven resuscitative thoracotomies were performed. Most patients were males (84%), and mean age was 38 years. Mechanism of injury was stab wounds (54%, 36), blunt force (25%, 17), and gunshot wounds (21%, 14). Survival was 22% (8/36), 0% (0/17), and 7% (1/14), respectively. All nine survivors had signs of life upon admission, and survival in patients with signs of life on admission was 25% (8/32) in the stab wounds group and 8% (1/12) in the gunshot wounds group. Seven of the nine survivors (78%) were discharged neurologically intact. The most common injury in survivors was cardiac laceration with tamponade (6/9) and lung injury (3/9). Three survivors had a cardiac and lung injury, one had a lung hilum injury, and one had an abdominal inferior vena cava laceration. The switch to resuscitative thoracotomy protocol (2002) improved overall (31 vs 8%, p < 0.05) and penetrating trauma (45 vs 10%, p < 0.05) survival, eliminated resuscitative thoracotomy in patients presenting with no signs of life, and tended to reduce resuscitative thoracotomy utilization in blunt trauma patients.

Conclusion:

This single-surgeon series supports that resuscitative thoracotomy can be lifesaving in selected penetrating trauma patients in extremis. A switch to a selective evidence-based protocol increased overall and penetrating resuscitative thoracotomy survival and limited resuscitative thoracotomy performance to patients arriving with signs of life.
Inclusive versus exclusive: A cross-national comparison of the effects of subnational, national, and supranational identity
Authors: Curtis K Amber
Published: April 2014

A superordinate identity reduces bias and facilitates intergroup cooperation. This suggests that getting European Union (EU) citizens to identify with Europe will decrease outgroup hostility. Is European identity thus a superordinate identity? Using Eurobarometer data, I determine which level of identification is the most inclusive for individuals' immigration attitudes. Those who feel European hold more favorable views toward immigrants—an effect that is amplified under conditions of cross-cutting cleavages and where country length of European Union membership is greatest. In contrast, strong national identity is associated with more negative immigration attitudes; regional identity has no effect. A subsequent test confirms that the benefits of identifying with Europe extend most strongly to immigrants of European Union origin, although positive effects are observed toward non-European Union migrants as well.
“We’re all thrown in the same boat … ”: A qualitative analysis of peer support in dementia care
Authors: Keyes Sarah E , Clarke Charlotte L , Wilkinson Heather , Alexjuk Eva Joanna , Wilcockson Jane , Robinson Louise , Reynolds Joanna , McClelland Siobhan , Corner Lynne , Cattan Mima
Published: April 2014

Peer support is well established in fields such as the disability movement and mental health and is increasingly recognised as one way of enabling support by and for people with a diagnosis of dementia and their immediate carers. It was central to the implementation of the National Dementia Strategy (NDS) for England, when 40 demonstration sites were established. This mixed-methods study included in-depth qualitative interviews with people living with dementia ( n = 101) and staff/stakeholders ( n = 82) at 8 of the 40 sites. Data analysis was a five-stage process: coding framework developed (using 25 transcripts); further development of the framework (using a further 70 transcripts); development of emerging themes; modelling of themes and verification of models based on the entire data set. Peer support had positive emotional and social impact that was rooted in identification with others, a commonality of experience and reciprocity of support. There was also a contrast between the quality of peer support and support from professionals. This emphasises the significance of lived experience and promoting a strength-based approach to interpersonal support that is enabling and challenges a deficit approach to understanding dementia.
Structural reliability assessment of container ship at the time of accident
Authors: Parunov Josko , Andric Jerolim , Corak Maro , Kitarovic Stanislav
Published: April 2014

Hull girder reliability assessment of the MSC Napoli at the time of accident is presented. Loads considered in the study are still water bending moments, vertical wave bending moments and whipping bending moments, while structural capacity is represented by the hull girder ultimate strength. Load combination between wave and whipping bending moments is considered. The probability of failure is calculated using a first-order reliability method. Sensitivity study is performed in order to investigate influence of the pertinent random variables. The uncertainty model of the basic random variables involved is consistent with the recent proposal by the International Maritime Organization, thus enabling direct comparison of the obtained results with reliability levels proposed by International Maritime Organization.
Successful Treatment of a Patient With Complicated Diabetic Foot Wound
Authors: Zheng Yurong , Wang Xingang , Zhang Liping , You Chuangang , Feng Zhanzeng , Han Chunmao
Published: April 2014

Foot ulceration is one of the most serious complications of diabetes mellitus and may lead to amputation of the lower extremity. Timely prophylaxis and treatment of diabetic foot ulceration are important to maintain a good quality of life. This article reports a complicated diabetic patient with severe limb-threatening necrotizing infection. We successfully applied endovascular stent insertion, digit amputation, negative pressure wound therapy, and advanced dressings in different wound phases to achieve definitive wound healing after 12 months of treatment. Based on this case report, we would like to emphasize the importance of combined multiple therapies and patient compliance for severe diabetic foot ulcers.
G protein-coupled receptor 56 regulates matrix production and motility of lung fibroblasts
Authors: Yang Jian , Wang Zhanyong , Leng Dong , Dai Huaping , Wang Jun , Liang Jiurong , Jiang Dianhua , Wang Chen
Published: April 2014

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive, and fatal fibrotic lung disease with a poor prognosis, but no effective treatment is available. G protein-coupled receptor 56 (GPR56) plays a role in cell adhesion and tumor progression, but its function in fibrogenesis has not been explored. In this in vitro study, we found that GPR56 in IPF fibroblasts was lower than in normal fibroblasts. GPR56 regulated the production of fibronectin and type I collagen, and also changed the migratory and invasive capacity of lung fibroblasts. However, it was not sufficient to activate some classic markers of fibroblast and myofibroblast, such as α-smooth muscle actin and fibroblast specific protein 1. These findings demonstrate that reduced expression of GPR56 in lung fibroblasts may be an important link with pulmonary fibrosis, playing a role in regulating some important fibroblast functions.
From Clinical Misdiagnosis to Electrophysiological Diagnosis
Authors: Tekin Güveli Betül , Gürses Candan , Özde Cem , Çağlar İlker Murat , Çabalar Murat , Kolukısa Mehmet , Yayla Vildan
Published: April 2014

Differential diagnosis of epilepsy and syncope may be difficult. Arrhythmias such as asystole, or ventricular fibrillation, may lead to cerebral hypoperfusion mimicking partial or secondary generalized tonic–clonic seizures. While performing an electroencephalogram (EEG) for epilepsy diagnosis, simultaneous electrocardiogram (ECG) recording may detect cardiac pathology. In this article, through 2 cases, who had cardiac asystole during the EEG, we demonstrate the importance of ECG during EEG. To rule out cardiac pathology in syncope cases, all necessary investigations must be done.
Spatial and Temporal EEG-fMRI Changes During Preictal and Postictal Phases in a Patient With Posttraumatic Epilepsy
Authors: Storti Silvia F. , Del Felice Alessandra , Formaggio Emanuela , Boscolo Galazzo Ilaria , Bongiovanni Luigi G. , Cerini Roberto , Fiaschi Antonio , Manganotti Paolo
Published: April 2014

The combined use of electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG-fMRI) in epilepsy allows the noninvasive hemodynamic characterization of epileptic discharge-related neuronal activations. The aim of this study was to investigate pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying epileptic activity by exploring the spatial and temporal distribution of fMRI signal modifications during seizure in a single patient with posttraumatic epilepsy. EEG and fMRI data were acquired during two scanning sessions: a spontaneous critical episode was observed during the first, and interictal events were recorded during the second. The EEG-fMRI data were analyzed using the general linear model (GLM). Blood oxygenation level–dependent (BOLD) localization derived from the preictal and artifact-free postictal phase was concordant with the BOLD localization of the interictal epileptiform discharges identified in the second session, pointing to a left perilesional mesiofrontal area. Of note, BOLD signal modifications were already visible several seconds before seizure onset. In brief, BOLD activations from the preictal, postictal, and interictal epileptiform discharge analysis appear to be concordant with the clinically driven localization hypothesis, whereas a widespread network of activations is detected during the ictal phase in a partial seizure.