bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated urinary leukocyte esterase as a potential surrogate marker for HIV sexual transmission risks in men receiving antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Kalichman Seth C , Washington Christopher , Grebler Tamar , Kalichman Moira O , Cherry Chauncey , Eaton Lisa
Published: May 2014

Local genital tract inflammation stimulates leukocyte activity and causes HIV shedding, potentially increasing HIV sexual infectiousness. Although there are available clinical markers for genital tract inflammation, such as urinary leukocyte esterase, none have yet been examined in relation to HIV sexual risk behaviours. We sought to examine the association between urinary leukocyte esterase and sexual practices. Sexually active men living with HIV and receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART, N = 290) provided urine specimens and completed behavioural health assessments. HIV RNA tests and CD4 cell counts were abstracted from medical records. Urine specimens were analysed for leukocyte esterase using a standard point-of-care dipstick test. Thirty-one (10.6%) participants tested positive for leukocyte esterase. Logistic regression models did not indicate differences between men with elevated and un-elevated leukocyte activity on demographic, health, recent sexually transmitted infection symptoms and diagnoses or substance use. However, men with elevated leukocyte activity indicated significantly greater sexual behaviour in the previous three months, including more recent unprotected sexual intercourse. A simple over-the-counter urine test may serve as an indicator of sexual HIV infectiousness to inform further evaluation and treatment of genital tract inflammation, as well as condom use decisions during times of increased genital tract inflammation.
Atypical penile Mondor’s disease – involvement of the circumflex vein
Authors: Arora Rahul , Sonthalia Sidharth , Gera Tanu , Sarkar Rashmi
Published: May 2014

Mondor’s disease is a rare condition characterised by superficial thrombophlebitis of subcutaneous veins, most commonly over the anterior chest wall. Penile Mondor’s disease is rarer, arising out of thrombophlebitis of the penile veins. It typically involves the dorsal vein of the penis and presents with a cord-like indurated lesion with a beaded feel, palpable along the length of the involved vein. Though penile Mondor’s disease involving the dorsal vein of the penis has been reported by many authors, we report a peculiar case of penile Mondor’s disease in a 26-year-old sexually active man with thrombophlebitis of the circumflex vein of the penis with sparing of the dorsal vein. Diagnosis was confirmed on Doppler ultrasonography of the penile venous system. Despite exhaustive history taking, no cause could be elicited. The lesion completely subsided within three days with daily local hot fomentation. We propose the term ‘atypical penile Mondor’s disease’ for such a case.
Misleading First Impressions
Authors: Todorov Alexander , Porter Jenny M.
Published: May 2014

Studies on first impressions from facial appearance have rapidly proliferated in the past decade. Almost all of these studies have relied on a single face image per target individual, and differences in impressions have been interpreted as originating in stable physiognomic differences between individuals. Here we show that images of the same individual can lead to different impressions, with within-individual image variance comparable to or exceeding between-individuals variance for a variety of social judgments (Experiment 1). We further show that preferences for images shift as a function of the context (e.g., selecting an image for online dating vs. a political campaign; Experiment 2), that preferences are predictably biased by the selection of the images (e.g., an image fitting a political campaign vs. a randomly selected image; Experiment 3), and that these biases are evident after extremely brief (40-ms) presentation of the images (Experiment 4). We discuss the implications of these findings for studies on the accuracy of first impressions.
Self-organizing fuzzy optimal control for under-actuated systems
Authors: Zhang Hai-Yun , Wang Jin , Lu Guo-Dong
Published: May 2014

This study combines self-organizing fuzzy logic control technology with optimal control theory and presents a self-organizing fuzzy optimal controller for under-actuated systems. Instead of calibrating the control input directly, the self-organizing fuzzy optimal controller employs the self-organizing fuzzy system as a superior regulator to adjust the weighting matrix of the cost function for the optimal controller. Through this operation and the hierarchical control architecture design, self-organizing fuzzy optimal controller adaptively regulates the control strategy and manipulates the optimal control procedure according to the system dynamic behavior in real time. The optimal control law corresponding to the proposed regulator is then derived from the maximum principle for optimal control theory. The stability of the self-organizing fuzzy optimal controller is analyzed and proved through the Lyapunov stability theorem. Simulations on an under-actuated gantry crane system and a ball-and-beam system have verified that the self-organizing fuzzy optimal controller provides superior control performances as compared with the traditional linear quadratic regulating controller.
Factor Structure of the Spiritual Well-Being Scale
Authors: Musa Ahmad S.
Published: May 2014

This study reported the differences in factor structure of the Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS) among Jordanian Arab and Malaysian Muslim participants and further examined its validity and reliability. A convenience sample of 553 Jordanian Arab and 183 Malaysian Malay Muslim university students was recruited from governmental universities in northern Jordan. The findings of this study revealed that this scale consists of two factors for the Jordanian Arab group, representing the “Religious Well-Being” and the “Existential Well-Being” subscales, and consists of three factors for the Malaysian group, representing the “Affiliation/Meaning and Purpose,” “Positive Existential Well-Being/God Caring and Love,” and “Alienation/Despair” subscales. In conclusion, the factor structure of the SWBS for both groups in this study was psychometrically sound with evidence of acceptable to good validity and reliability. Furthermore, this study supported the multidimensional nature of the SWBS and the earlier notion that ethnicity shapes responses to this scale.
A Quasi-Experimental Evaluation of High-Intensity Inpatient Sex Offender Treatment in the Netherlands
Authors: Smid Wineke J. , Kamphuis Jan H. , Wever Edwin C. , Van Beek Daan J.
Published: May 2014

The current study quasi-experimentally assessed the outcome of high-intensity inpatient sex offender treatment in the Netherlands in terms of sexual and violent (including sexual) recidivism. It was hypothesized that treated sex offenders would show lower recidivism rates than untreated sex offenders of the same risk level. In line with the risk principle of the Risk, Need, Responsivity (RNR) model, we predicted that this would especially hold true for offenders of higher risk levels. The study sample consisted of 25% of all convicted Dutch sex offenders not referred to any form of treatment and discharged from prison between 1996 and 2002, and all convicted Dutch sex offenders referred to inpatient treatment who were discharged between 1996 and 2002. Static-99R risk levels of these 266 offenders were retrospectively assessed and survival curves regarding sexual and violent (including sexual) recidivism were compared between treated and untreated offenders, controlling for level of risk. Mean follow-up was 148.0 months ( SD = 29.6) and the base rate of sexual recidivism was 15.0% and 38.4% for violent (including sexual) recidivism. Cox regression survival analyses showed marginally significant lower failure rates regarding sexual recidivism for treated high-risk offenders only, and significantly lower failure rates regarding violent (including sexual recidivism) for treated sex offenders of moderate-high and high-risk levels. No treatment effects for low and low-moderate risk offenders were found. Results underscore the risk principle of the RNR model: Treatment is more effective when its dosage is attuned to risk level.
Expediting the Analysis of Qualitative Data in Evaluation
Authors: Neal Jennifer Watling , Neal Zachary P. , VanDyke Erika , Kornbluh Mariah
Published: May 2014

Qualitative data offer advantages to evaluators, including rich information about stakeholders’ perspectives and experiences. However, qualitative data analysis is labor-intensive and slow, conflicting with evaluators’ needs to provide punctual feedback to their clients. In this method note, we contribute to the literature on rapid evaluation and assessment methods by proposing procedures that evaluators can use to expedite the coding and analysis of qualitative data and comparing these procedures to other possible methods. Specifically, we outline procedures for the rapid identification of themes from audio recordings, which allow evaluators to code and analyze qualitative data without time-consuming transcription. We illustrate the use and assess the reliability of these procedures using qualitative semi-structured interview data from 18 public school administrators on how they locate information about and decide to use instructional, health, and social skills programming in their districts. Finally, we end with advantages and trade-offs of these procedures as well as recommendations for how to apply them.
Relapsing inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion in an anti-aquaporin-4 antibody positive paediatric patient
Authors: Kravljanac Ruzica , Martinović Vanja , Dujmović Irena , Djurić Milena , Kuzmanović Miloš , Weinshenker Brian G , Drulović Jelena
Published: May 2014

Paediatric patients with the syndrome of an inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), as a manifestation of inflammatory demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system, have been rarely described until now, in only a few cases of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs). We present a case of relapsing SIADH associated with NMOSD, in an anti-aquaporin-4 antibody positive 14-year-old girl, who is, to our best knowledge, the first reported paediatric patient with relapsing SIADH and NMOSD. Additionally, our case further supports the notion that paediatric encephalomyelitis associated with SIADH should suggest the diagnosis of NMOSD.
Stroke in young women: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Leahy Dorothy M , Desmond Deirdre , Coughlan Tara , O’Neill Des , Collins D Rónán
Published: May 2014

Stroke among adults of working age is increasing. We aimed to explore the experience of stroke among young women in Ireland. In total, 12 women (aged between 18 and 50 years) participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four super-ordinate themes were identified: stroke as an illness of later life (‘obviously it’s for older people’), post-stroke selves, a desire for peer support and the impact of stroke on relationships. Findings indicate the importance of addressing the specific needs of younger stroke patients from admission to recovery through provision of inclusive all-age acute stroke services with tailored rehabilitation.
Computational fluid dynamics modelling and optimisation of an upper-room ultraviolet germicidal irradiation system in a naturally ventilated hospital ward
Authors: Gilkeson C. A. , Noakes C. J. , Khan M. A. I.
Published: May 2014

Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) has been shown to be an effective technology for reducing the airborne bioburden in indoor environments and is already advocated as a potential infection control measure for healthcare settings. However, much of the understanding of UVGI performance is based on experimental studies or numerical simulation in mechanically ventilated environments. This study considers the application of an upper-room UVGI system in a naturally ventilated multi-bed hospital ward. A computational fluid dynamics model is used to simulate a Nightingale-type hospital ward with wind-driven cross-ventilation and three wall-mounted UVGI fixtures. A parametric study considering 50 different fixture configurations and three ventilation rates was carried out using a design of experiments approach. Each configuration was assessed by calculating the UV dose distribution over the ward and at each bed. Results show that dose is influenced by the location of the fixtures and the ventilation regime. Thermal effects are likely to be important at low ventilation rates and may reduce UV effectiveness. A metamodel-based numerical optimisation was applied at a ventilation rate of 6 air changes per hour. In this case, the optimum result is achieved when UVGI fixtures are mounted on the leeward wall at their lowest mounting height.
Which Rivastigmine Formula is Better for Heart in Elderly Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Isik Ahmet Turan , Soysal Pinar , Yay Adnan
Published: May 2014

Objective:

Rivastigmine is commonly used for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). All cholinesterase inhibitors, including rivastigmine, may cause cardiac side effects. The aim of this study is to compare the electrocardiographic (ECG) and hypotensive effects of formulations of rivastigmine.

Methods:

Eighty-five newly diagnosed patients with AD who were treated with rivastigmine were retrospectively evaluated. The ECG records were reviewed at baseline and at administration of either 12 mg of oral rivastigmine or 10 cm2 transdermal rivastigmine.

Results:

When compared with the baseline, there were no changes in any of the ECG parameters in all of the patients ( P > .05). Moreover, when compared with the mean change from baseline for each treatment group, there were no changes, except heart rate ( P = .035).

Conclusion:

It was demonstrated that rivastigmine formulations were not associated with increased arrhythmogenic or hypotensive effects in elderly patients with AD and was not superior to each other.
The Imperial Effect: Literary Copyright Law in Colonial Australia
Authors: Ailwood Sarah , Sainsbury Maree
Published: May 2014

This article traces the application, operation and development of copyright law regarding literary works in colonial Australia. It examines the reception of the Literary Copyright Act 1842 (UK) and the Foreign Reprints Act 1847 (UK), exploring early (unsuccessful) attempts to liberalize the Australian book trade by allowing foreign imports of UK-copyright works. It also analyzes the development of colonial copyright legislation from the 1860s, using parliamentary debates and media commentary to explore contemporary attitudes to copyright policy. These inquiries reveal that the Australian colonies were unique throughout the empire in their insistence on toeing the imperial copyright line, in ways that were frequently contrary to the interests of colonial authors and readers.
Time, Equity, and the Artifice of English Law: Reflections on The King’s Two Bodies
Authors: Raffield Paul
Published: May 2014

The aim of this article is to analyze the contribution of the early modern English legal institution to the formulation of the theory of the king’s two bodies. I explore three principal themes in the course of this article, all of which relate directly to central tenets of the thesis proposed by Kantorowicz in The King’s Two Bodies. First, is the centrality of time and continuity to theories of kingship and to the ideology of common law. Secondly, I consider the importance of equity to the formulation of decision-making in English law, and in pursuit of this end, the manipulation by the judiciary of political theology concerning the king’s two bodies. Lastly, I analyze the persuasive power of the trope, and especially the capacity of metaphor and metonym to embody such invisible and intangible juristic concepts as justice, equity, and law itself. Whilst recognizing the magisterial quality of Kantorowicz’s magnum opus, I take issue with some of the more extravagant of the author’s claims for the pervasive power of mystical kingship and its influence over English jurists and the English legal profession.
The use of four-dimensional computed tomography to diagnose costoclavicular impingement causing thoracic outlet syndrome
Authors: Wijeratna Malin D , Troupis John M , Bell Simon N
Published: May 2014

Thoracic outlet syndrome is caused by compression of the neurovascular structures crossing the interscalene triangle, costoclavicular space or retropectoralis minor space. The costoclavicular space is the most frequent site of arterial compression and is mainly a result of anatomical variations and masses occupying the costoclavicular space causing a compression effect on the vascular or neural structures within it. We present a case of thoracic outlet syndrome caused by dynamic impingement of the clavicle and the second rib diagnosed by four-dimensional computed tomography scanning.
Patient-reported outcomes in overactive bladder due to idiopathic detrusor overactivity: A correlation of two multi-domain questionnaires with a focus on quality of life and lifestyle goals
Authors: Irwin Paul P , Harris Maya
Published: May 2014

Aims:

The aims of this article are to correlate two multi-domain patient questionnaires for overactive bladder (OAB) and to assess their performance against quality-of-life measures.

Methods:

Patients with OAB symptoms due to idiopathic detrusor overactivity completed an Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), an ICIQ-OAB questionnaire and a Likert quality of life (QoL) score before and six weeks following intravesical botulinum toxin treatment. They also listed lifestyle goals to which they aspired following treatment. Correlations between domains, total scores, QoL and goal achievement were calculated.

Results:

Fifty-seven patients returned 113 sets of questionnaires for analysis. A very close correlation was found between individual symptoms scores (Spearman r ranging from 0.93 for nocturia to 0.74 for urgency incontinence) and between the total scores of the two questionnaires ( r = 0.83). The sum of the OABSS+QoL scores also correlated strongly with total ICIQ-OAB scores ( r = 0.85). The correlation between total problem scores on the ICIQ-OAB and the Likert QoL was lower ( r = 0.689) but remained significant. The effect sizes (ES) were large (ranging from r = 0.6 to r = 1.0) and the standard response means (SRM) varied between 0.6 and 1.1, indicating a good correlation between the two questionnaires.

Conclusions:

Both questionnaires provide similar information in terms of symptom presence or absence and their impact on QoL. The addition of the QoL score to the standard OABSS did not add to its benefit.
Examining Warfarin Dosing Decisions to Improve Anticoagulation Management
Authors: Kim Bo , Shaikh Omair A. , Rose Adam J.
Published: May 2014

Background: Adherence to relatively simple warfarin dosing algorithms has been found to be effective for improving anticoagulation control, and in turn for reducing adverse events. Achieving consistent use of such algorithms by clinicians managing the care is a known challenge. Objective: To examine warfarin management patterns at anticoagulation clinics in light of algorithm-recommended management and to develop a methodology for quality assurance around this issue. Methods: We reviewed 2711 postappointment clinician notes between October 1, 2011, and March 31, 2012, for 481 patients across 5 Veterans Health Administration (VA) sites. Key data gathered were of dosing decisions made following the latest available international normalized ratio (INR). Results: Dosing decisions discordant with algorithm recommendations were made at 45% of all the appointments studied; most (78%) followed an out-of-range INR value, as opposed to an in-range value. We found “signatures of care” at each site, characterized by consistent patterns of concordant and discordant management. For example, some sites were more discordant in terms of one-time dose changes (eg, take an extra dose for 1 day), while others were more discordant regarding follow-up intervals, and still others regarding the extent of weekly dose changes (usually larger than recommended). It was also not uncommon to change the dose following an in-range value (not recommended). Conclusions: We identified 5 distinct patterns of management across 5 sites; none were particularly adherent to clinical guidelines. Our method is a suitable basis for audit and feedback to help sites improve patient outcomes by practicing in a more guideline-concordant manner.
Structural characterisation and electrical conductivity studies of BaMoO4 nanorods prepared by modified acrylamide assisted sol–gel process
Authors: Jena P. , Nallamuthua N. , Patro P. K. , Venkateswarlu M. , Satyanarayana N.
Published: May 2014

Scheelite type BaMoO4 nanorods have been synthesised by modified acrylamide assisted sol–gel process. The prepared samples were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Fourier transform Raman (FT-Raman), scanning electron microscope–energy dispersive X-ray (SEM–EDX) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques. The crystalline phase and structure of the prepared samples were confirmed from the analysis of the obtained results of XRD, FTIR and FT-Raman respectively. The average crystallite size calculated using Scheeer's formula and XRD data is found to be 98 nm. SEM images showed the formation one dimensional nanorods of diameter <300 nm. EDX spectra showed the existence of Ba, Mo and O elements of the prepared samples. From the TEM images, diameter and length of the rod are found to be 80 and 2070 nm respectively. The ac conductivities by impedance spectroscopy of the prepared BaMoO4 samples were evaluated as a function of temperature ranging from 500 to 800°C in the air. The newly prepared BaMoO4 nanorods showed electrical conductivity of 3·14×10−3 S cm−1.
How we evaluate and treat neutropenia in adults
Authors: Gibson Christopher , Berliner Nancy
Published: May 2014

Isolated neutropenia is a common clinical problem seen by primary care physicians and hematologists. The evaluation of neutropenia is dictated by the acuity of the clinical presentation and the duration, age, and clinical status of the patient. In this review, we provide a practical approach to the evaluation of the adult patient with neutropenia, with the major focus on the evaluation of neutropenia in the outpatient setting.
Paraneoplastic thrombocytosis: the secrets of tumor self-promotion
Authors: Lin Richard J. , Afshar-Kharghan Vahid , Schafer Andrew I.
Published: May 2014

Paraneoplastic thrombocytosis is associated with many solid tumors and often correlates with reduced survival. Recent studies suggest that a pathogenic feed back loop may be operative between platelets and tumor cells, with reciprocal interactions between tumor growth/metastasis and thrombocytosis/platelet activation. Specific molecular pathways have been identified in which tumors can stimulate platelet production and activation; activated platelets can, in turn, promote tumor growth and metastasis. Taken together, these findings provide exciting new potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Headache yesterday in Europe
Authors: Andrée Colette , Steiner Timothy J , Barré Jessica , Katsarava Zaza , Lainez Jose Miguel , Lampl Christian , Lantéri-Minet Michel , Rastenyte Daiva , Ruiz de la Torre Elena , Tassorelli Cristina , Stovner Lars Jacob
Published: May 2014

Background

Surveys enquiring about burden of headache over a prior period of time (eg, 3 months) are subject to recall bias. To eliminate this as far as possible, we focused on presence and impact of headache on the preceding day (“headache yesterday”).

Methods

Adults (18-65 years) were surveyed from the general populations of Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, from a work-force population in Spain and from mostly non-headache patient populations of Austria, France and UK. A study of non-responders in some countries allowed detection of potential participation bias where initial participation rates were low.

Results

Participation rates varied between 11% and 59% (mean 27%). Non-responder studies suggested that, because of participation bias, headache prevalence might be overestimated in initial responders by up to 2% (absolute). Across all countries, 1,422 of 8,271 participants (15-17%, depending on correction for participation bias) had headache yesterday lasting on average for 6 hours. It was bad or very bad in 56% of cases and caused absence from work or school in 6%. Among those who worked despite headache, 20% reported productivity reduced by >50%. Social activities were lost by 24%. Women (21%) were more likely than men (12%) to have headache yesterday, but impact was similar in the two genders.

Conclusions

With recall biases avoided, our findings indicate that headache costs at least 0.7% of working capacity in Europe. This calculation takes into account that most of those who missed work could make up for this later, which, however, means that leisure and social activities are even more influenced by headache.
Anti-cancer activity of glucosamine through inhibition of N-linked glycosylation
Authors: Chesnokov Viktor , Gong Beata , Sun Chao , Itakura Keiichi
Published: May 2014

Background

We have reported that the glucosamine suppressed the proliferation of the human prostate carcinoma cell line DU145 through inhibition of STAT3 signaling. DU145 cells autonomously express IL-6 and the IL-6/STAT3 signaling is activated. IL-6 receptor subunits are subject to N-glycosylation, a posttranslational modification which is important for protein stability and function. We speculated that the inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation by glucosamine might be a functional consequence of the reduced N-glycosylation of gp130.

Methods

The human prostate cancer cell lines DU145 and PC-3 and human melanoma cell line A2058 were used in this study. Glucosamine effects on N-glycosylation of glycoproteins were determined by Western blot analysis. IL-6 binding to DU145 cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. The cell proliferation suppression was investigated by colorimetric Janus green staining method.

Results

In DU145 cells glucosamine reduced the N-glycosylation of gp130, decreased IL-6 binding to cells and impaired the phosphorylation of JAK2, SHP2 and STAT3. Glucosamine acts in a very similar manner to tunicamycin, an inhibitor of protein N-glycosylation. Glucosamine-mediated inhibition of N-glycosylation was neither protein- nor cell-specific. Sensitivity of DU145, A2058 and PC-3 cells to glucosamine-induced inhibition of N-glycosylation were well correlated to glucosamine cytotoxicity in these cells.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that the glucosamine-induced global inhibition of protein N-glycosylation might be the basic mechanism underlying its multiple biochemical and cellular effects.
Effects of the alkylamine functionalization of graphene oxide on the properties of polystyrene nanocomposites
Authors: Jang Jinhee , Pham Viet Hung , Rajagopalan Balasubramaniyan , Hur Seung Hyun , Chung Jin Suk
Published: May 2014

Alkylamine-functionalized graphene oxides (FGOs) have superior dispersibility in low-polar solvents and, as a result, they interact with low-polar polymers such as polystyrene. In this work, the functionalization of graphene oxide using three types of alkylamines, octylamine (OA), dodecylamine (DDA), and hexadecylamine (HDA), was performed, and nanocomposites of polystyrene (PS) and FGOs were prepared via solution blending. Different dispersions of FGOs over PS were obtained for the three alkylamines, and the properties of the PS composites were influenced by the length of the alkylamine. A better thermal stability was observed with a longer chain length of the alkylamine. On the other hand, functionalization with the shortest chain length alkylamine resulted in the highest increase in the storage modulus (3,640 MPa, 140%) at a 10 wt.% loading of FGO.
Erythritol production on wheat straw using Trichoderma reesei
Authors: Jovanović Birgit , Mach Robert L , Mach-Aigner Astrid R
Published: May 2014

We overexpressed the err1 gene in the Trichoderma reesei wild-type and in the cellulase hyperproducing, carbon catabolite derepressed strain Rut-C30 in order to investigate the possibility of producing erythritol with T. reesei. Two different promoters were used for err1 overexpression in both strains, a constitutive (the native pyruvat kinase (pki) promoter) and an inducible one (the native β-xylosidase (bxl1) promoter). The derived recombinant strains were precharacterized by analysis of err1 transcript formation on D-xylose and xylan. Based on this, one strain of each type was chosen for further investigation for erythritol production in shake flasks and in bioreactor experiments. For the latter, we used wheat straw pretreated by an alkaline organosolve process as lignocellulosic substrate. Shake flask experiments on D-xylose showed increased erythritol formation for both, the wild-type and the Rut-C30 overexpression strain compared to their respective parental strain. Bioreactor cultivations on wheat straw did not increase erythritol formation in the wild-type overexpression strain. However, err1 overexpression in Rut-C30 led to a clearly higher erythritol formation on wheat straw.
Integrative gene transfer in the truffle Tuber borchii by Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation
Authors: Brenna Andrea , Montanini Barbara , Muggiano Eleonora , Proietto Marco , Filetici Patrizia , Ottonello Simone , Ballario Paola
Published: May 2014

Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation is a powerful tool for reverse genetics and functional genomic analysis in a wide variety of plants and fungi. Tuber spp. are ecologically important and gastronomically prized fungi (“truffles”) with a cryptic life cycle, a subterranean habitat and a symbiotic, but also facultative saprophytic lifestyle. The genome of a representative member of this group of fungi has recently been sequenced. However, because of their poor genetic tractability, including transformation, truffles have so far eluded in-depth functional genomic investigations. Here we report that A. tumefaciens can infect Tuber borchii mycelia, thereby conveying its transfer DNA with the production of stably integrated transformants. We constructed two new binary plasmids (pABr1 and pABr3) and tested them as improved transformation vectors using the green fluorescent protein as reporter gene and hygromycin phosphotransferase as selection marker. Transformants were stable for at least 12 months of in vitro culture propagation and, as revealed by TAIL- PCR analysis, integration sites appear to be heterogeneous, with a preference for repeat element-containing genome sites.
At the Bench:Helicobacter pylori, dysregulated host responses, DNA damage, and gastric cancer
Authors: Hardbower Dana M , Peek Richard M , Wilson Keith T
Published: May 2014

Helicobacter pylori infection is the strongest known risk factor for the development of gastric cancer. Given that ∼50% of the global population is infected with this pathogen, there is great impetus to elucidate underlying causes that mediate progression from infection to cancer. Recent evidence suggests that H. pylori-induced chronic inflammation and oxidative stress create an environment conducive to DNA damage and tissue injury. DNA damage leads to genetic instability and eventually, neoplastic transformation. Pathogen-encoded virulence factors induce a robust but futile immune response and alter host pathways that lower the threshold for carcinogenesis, including DNA damage repair, polyamine synthesis and catabolism, antioxidant responses, and cytokine production. Collectively, such dysregulation creates a protumorigenic microenvironment within the stomach. This review seeks to address each of these aspects of H. pylori infection and to call attention to areas of particular interest within this field of research. This review also seeks to prioritize areas of translational research related to H. pylori-induced gastric cancer based on insights garnered from basic research in this field. See related review by Dalal and Moss, At the Bedside: H. pylori, dysregulated host responses, DNA damage, and gastric cancer.
3D finite-element forward modeling of electromagnetic data using vector and scalar potentials and unstructured grids
Authors: Ansari Seyedmasoud , Farquharson Colin G.
Published: May 2014

We present a finite-element solution to the 3D electromagnetic forward-modeling problem in the frequency domain. The method is based on decomposing the electric field into vector and scalar potentials in the Helmholtz equation and in the equation of conservation of charge. Edge element and nodal element basis functions were used, respectively, for the vector and scalar potentials. This decomposition was performed with the intention of satisfying the continuity of the tangential component of the electric field and the normal component of the current density across the interelement boundaries, therefore finding an efficient solution to the problem. The computational domain was subdivided into unstructured tetrahedral elements. The system of equations was discretized using the Galerkin variant of the weighted residuals method, with the approximated vector and scalar potentials as the unknowns of a sparse linear system. A generalized minimum residual solver with an incomplete LU preconditioner was used to iteratively solve the system. The solution method was validated using five examples. In the first and second examples, the fields generated by small dipoles on the surface of a homogeneous half-space were compared against their corresponding analytic solutions. The third example provided a comparison with the results from an integral equation method for a long grounded wire source on a model with a conductive block buried in a less conductive half-space. The fourth example concerned verifying the method for a large conductivity contrast where a magnetic dipole transmitter-receiver pair moves over a graphite cube immersed in brine. Solutions from the numerical approach were in good agreement with the data from physical scale modeling of this scenario. The last example verified the solution for a resistive disk model buried in marine conductive sediments. For all examples, convergence of the solution that used potentials were significantly quicker than that using the electric field.
Empirical estimation of uniaxial compressive strength of shale formations
Authors: Farrokhrouz Mohsen , Asef Mohammad Reza , Kharrat Riyaz
Published: May 2014

The uniaxial compressive strength of rock ([Formula: see text]) is an important parameter for petroleum engineers, drilling operations, and all related activities from exploration through to production and abandonment. A thorough understanding of the parameters affecting [Formula: see text] is a basic prerequisite for accurate geomechanical modeling of the reservoir and overburden properties. Uniaxial compressive strength plays a significant role in mud weight determination while drilling, especially for a troublesome lithology such as shale. However, standard geomechanical practice requires well-preserved core samples for measurement of [Formula: see text] in the lab. Because core samples are not often available, there is a need for alternative methods to obtain fit-for-purpose values of [Formula: see text], based on other related rock parameters. Our primary objective was to identify a minimum set of related rock properties that could be used to predict [Formula: see text]. From a review of existing data in the literature, supplemented by laboratory measurements on Iranian samples, we established a database and accomplished extensive statistic analysis. Also, a normality test was executed to make sure a statistically acceptable set of data was collected. We suggested that two parameters of Young’s modulus ([Formula: see text]) and porosity ([Formula: see text]), which might be estimated from geophysical log data, were sufficient for a reliable prediction of [Formula: see text] in shale formations, and the overall contribution of [Formula: see text] was more than [Formula: see text]. We obtained a prediction equation with improved accuracy compared to previous investigations. Furthermore, we determined that the relative sensitivity of shale strength to porosity and Young’s modulus very much depended on the range of porosity.
Framework for Comprehensive Assessment of a City's Natural Disaster Risk
Authors: Brink Susan A. , Davidson Rachel A.
Published: May 2014

Most traditional regional natural disaster risk assessments use either engineering-based loss estimation modeling that focuses on probabilistic assessment of damage to the physical infrastructure, or a social science–based index approach that focuses on assessing vulnerability or resilience of the people exposed. Both have important strengths, but to date, the two have remained largely separate. In this paper, we introduce a new framework for comprehensive assessment of a city's natural disaster risk that aims to integrate the strengths of the two approaches into a single method that can be used to assess a city's risk. The framework essentially extends the probabilistic engineering loss estimation framework to include social resilience in a way that treats social resilience and physical infrastructure damage equally with a parallel structure. We illustrate application of the framework through a case study application to the seismically active city of Padang, Indonesia.
Halogen-Bond Interactions Enhanced by Charge-Assisted Hydrogen Bonds: An Ab Initio Study
Authors: Esrafili Mehdi D , Mohammadian-Sabet Fariba
Published: May 2014

The NH4+···NCX···NCY (X = F, Cl, and Br; Y = H, F, and OH) complexes are theoretically investigated to find ways to enhance the halogen-bond interaction. Cooperative effects are observed when a charge-assisted hydrogen bond (CAHB) and halogen bond coexist in the same complex. These effects are studied in terms of equilibrium geometry, interaction energy, charge-transfer properties, and 14N nuclear quadrupole coupling constant of the complexes at the MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ level. In all triads studied, a favorable cooperativity is found with values that range between −1.44 and −4.04 kcal mol−1. However, the increased percentage of the interaction energy depends on the interaction strength. To investigate the role of different energy terms in cooperativity between hydrogen and halogen bonds, the scheme of decomposition of the interaction energy is applied. The electrostatic interaction is found to be a dominant factor in enhancing both types of interactions.
Two Pillars of Asset Pricing
Authors: Fama Eugene F.
Published: May 2014

The Nobel Foundation asks that the Nobel lecture cover the work for which the Prize is awarded. The announcement of this year's Prize cites empirical work in asset pricing. I interpret this to include work on efficient capital markets and work on developing and testing asset pricing models—the two pillars, or perhaps more descriptive, the Siamese twins of asset pricing. I start with efficient markets and then move on to asset pricing models.
Who Is (More) Rational?
Authors: Choi Syngjoo , Kariv Shachar , Müller Wieland , Silverman Dan
Published: May 2014

Revealed preference theory offers a criterion for decision-making quality: if decisions are high quality then there exists a utility function the choices maximize. We conduct a large-scale experiment to test for consistency with utility maximization. Consistency scores vary markedly within and across socioeconomic groups. In particular, consistency is strongly related to wealth: A standard deviation increase in consistency is associated with 15–19 percent more household wealth. This association is quantitatively robust to conditioning on correlates of unobserved constraints, preferences, and beliefs. Consistency with utility maximization under laboratory conditions thus captures decision-making ability that applies across domains and influences important real-world outcomes. (JEL D12, D14, D81, D83, D91, G11)
The Wage Effects of Offshoring: Evidence from Danish Matched Worker-Firm Data
Authors: Hummels David , Jørgensen Rasmus , Munch Jakob , Xiang Chong
Published: May 2014

We employ data that match the population of Danish workers to the universe of private-sector Danish firms, with product-level trade flows by origin- and destination-countries. We document new stylized facts about offshoring and instrument for offshoring and exporting. Within job spells, offshoring increases (decreases) the high-skilled ( low-skilled) wage; exporting increases the wages of all skill-types; the net wage-effect of trade varies substantially within the same skill-type; conditional on skill, the wage-effect of offshoring varies across task characteristics. We estimate the overall effects of offshoring on workers' present and future income streams by constructing pre- offshoring-shock worker-cohorts and tracking them over time. (JEL F14, F16, J24, J31, L24)
US Food Aid and Civil Conflict
Authors: Nunn Nathan , Qian Nancy
Published: May 2014

We study the effect of US food aid on conflict in recipient countries. Our analysis exploits time variation in food aid shipments due to changes in US wheat production and cross-sectional variation in a country's tendency to receive any US food aid. According to our estimates, an increase in US food aid increases the incidence and duration of civil conflicts, but has no robust effect on interstate conflicts or the onset of civil conflicts. We also provide suggestive evidence that the effects are most pronounced in countries with a recent history of civil conflict. (JEL D74, F35, O17, O19, Q11, Q18)
The Size Distribution of Farms and International Productivity Differences
Authors: Adamopoulos Tasso , Restuccia Diego
Published: May 2014

We study the determinants of differences in farm size across countries and their impact on agricultural and aggregate productivity using a quantitative sectoral model featuring a distribution of farms. Measured aggregate factors (capital, land, economy-wide productivity) account for one-quarter of the observed differences in farm size and productivity. Policies and institutions that misallocate resources across farms have the potential to account for the remaining differences. Exploiting within-country variation in crop-specific price distortions and their correlation with farm size, we construct a cross-country measure of farm-size distortions which together with aggregate factors accounts for one-half of the cross-country differences in size and productivity. (JEL D24, J24, J43, L11, O13, Q12, Q18)
Gift Exchange versus Monetary Exchange: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Duffy John , Puzzello Daniela
Published: May 2014

We study the Lagos and Wright (2005) model of monetary exchange in the laboratory. With a finite population of sufficiently patient agents, this model has a unique monetary equilibrium and a continuum of non-monetary gift exchange equilibria, some of which Pareto dominate the monetary equilibrium. We find that subjects avoid the gift exchange equilibria in favor of the monetary equilibrium. We also study versions of the model without money where all equilibria involve non-monetary gift exchange. We find that welfare is higher in the model with money than without money, suggesting that money plays a role as an efficiency enhancing coordination device. ( JEL C92, D12, E40, Z13)
Compulsory Education and the Benefits of Schooling
Authors: Stephens Melvin , Yang Dou-Yan
Published: May 2014

Causal estimates of the benefits of increased schooling using US state schooling laws as instruments typically rely on specifications which assume common trends across states in the factors affecting different birth cohorts. Differential changes across states during this period, such as relative school quality improvements, suggest that this assumption may fail to hold. Across a number of outcomes including wages, unemployment, and divorce, we find that statistically significant causal estimates become insignificant and, in many instances, wrong-signed when allowing year of birth effects to vary across regions. (JEL H75, I21, I28, J24, N31, N32)
Effect of chromosome substitution on intrinsic exercise capacity in mice
Authors: Courtney Sean M. , Massett Michael P.
Published: May 2014

Previous research identified a locus on Chromosome 14 as an important regulator of endurance exercise capacity in mice. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of chromosome substitution on intrinsic exercise capacity and identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with exercise capacity in mice. Mice from a chromosome substitution strain (CSS) derived from A/J and C57Bl/6J (B6), denoted as B6.A14, were used to assess the contribution of Chromosome 14 to intrinsic exercise capacity. All mice performed a graded exercise test to exhaustion to determine exercise capacity expressed as time (min) or work (kg·m). Exercise time and work were significantly greater in B6 mice than B6.A14 and A/J mice, indicating the presence of a QTL on Chromosome 14 for exercise capacity. To localize exercise-related QTL, 155 B6.A14 x B6 F2mice were generated for linkage analysis. Suggestive QTL for exercise time (57 cM, 1.75 LOD) and work (57 cM, 2.08 LOD) were identified in the entire B6.A14 x B6 F2cohort. To identify putative sex-specific QTL, male and female F2cohorts were analyzed separately.  In males, a significant QTL for exercise time (55 cM, 2.28 LOD) and a suggestive QTL for work (55 cM, 2.19 LOD) were identified.  In the female cohort, no QTL was identified for time, but a suggestive QTL for work was located at 16 cM (1.8 LOD). These data suggest that one or more QTL on Chromosome 14 regulate exercise capacity. The putative sex-specific QTL further suggest that the genetic architecture underlying exercise capacity is different in males and females.  Overall, the results of this study support the use of CSS as a model for the genetic analysis of exercise capacity. Future studies should incorporate the full panel of CSS using male and female mice to dissect the genetic basis for differences in exercise capacity.
Water touring competitive advantage: an overseas perspective
Authors: Пучкин Алексей , Puchkin Aleksey
Published: May 2014

Natural tourist resources have long been a top priority with potential tourists. A vast majority of leisure- and recreation-oriented tours presuppose a usage of water tourist resources: beach activities, active water touring, fishing, etc. A number of RF regions are rich in tourist water resources, however, water touring, including cruising, remains one of the least developed sectors of the tourist industry, which is largely accounted for by the attraction infrastructure shortage. The article considers the peculiarities of the water touring clusters’ service space formation.
Experience economy concept in the development of tourism and hospitality
Authors: Осокин Вадим , Osokin Vadim
Published: May 2014

The aspects of experience economy which were identified, studied and described by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore are widely employed by service providers in a range of activities. Experiences do not only accompany the conventional product, but are themselves gaining the status of a product offered and consumed. Experiences are also increasing viewed as intrinsic to marketing and prerequisite for communication, certain managerial decisions and service provision. Therefore, decisions concerning a targeted effort at consumer experience creation will affect a company’s service activity system and sustained development. The author of the article identifies the application areas of the conceptual aspects of experience economy in the process of tourist and service enterprise development.