bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quorum Sensing Activity ofMesorhizobiumsp. F7 Isolated from Potable Water
Authors: Yong Pei-Ling , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: August 2014

We isolated a bacterial isolate (F7) from potable water. The strain was identified asMesorhizobiumsp. by 16S rDNA gene phylogenetic analysis and screened forN-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) production by an AHL biosensor. The AHL profile of the isolate was further analyzed using high resolution triple quadrupole liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS) which confirmed the production of multiple AHLs, namely,N-3-oxo-octanoyl-L-homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C8-HSL) andN-3-oxo-decanoyl-L-homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C10-HSL). These findings will open the perspective to study the function of these AHLs in plant-microbe interactions.
Mitral Valve Replacement with a Mechanical Valve for Severe Mitral Regurgitation in a Small Dog
Authors: Taguchi Daisuke , Kanemoto Isamu , Yokoyama Satoko , Mizuno Masashi , Washizu Makoto
Published: August 2014

A seven-year-old Shih Tzu with refractory repeated pulmonary edema and syncope was presented for surgical operation. From the results of cardiovascular examinations, the dog was diagnosed as severe mitral regurgitation (ACVIM consensus class D) and mild tricuspid regurgitation. The dog first underwent surgery with mitral valve plasty; however, the results were unsatisfactory due to severe damage of the whole mitral valve. The operation was quickly changed to mitral valve replacement using a mechanical valve (19 mm). The dog survived surgery and lived for 2 years and one month after operation using long-term anticoagulant (warfarin) therapy in spite of several thrombosis-related events.
Multiple Data‐Dependent Kernel Fisher Discriminant Analysis for Face Recognition
Authors: Liu Yue , Li Yibing , Xie Hong , Liu Dandan
Published: August 2014

Kernel Fisher discriminant analysis (KFDA) method has demonstrated its success in extracting facial features for face recognition. Compared to linear techniques, it can better describe the complex and nonlinear variations of face images. However, a single kernel is not always suitable for the applications of face recognition which contain data from multiple, heterogeneous sources, such as face images under huge variations of pose, illumination, and facial expression. To improve the performance of KFDA in face recognition, a novel algorithm named multiple data‐dependent kernel Fisher discriminant analysis (MDKFDA) is proposed in this paper. The constructed multiple data‐dependent kernel (MDK) is a combination of several base kernels with a data‐dependent kernel constraint on their weights. By solving the optimization equation based on Fisher criterion and maximizing the margin criterion, the parameter optimization of data‐dependent kernel and multiple base kernels is achieved. Experimental results on the three face databases validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Pigmented Lesion of Buccal Mucosa
Authors: Bajpai Manas , Kumar Malay , Kumar Manish , Agarwal Deshant
Published: August 2014

Pigmented lesions are commonly found in the mouth. Such lesions represent a variety of clinical entities, ranging from physiologic changes to manifestation of systemic illness and malignant neoplasm. Diagnosis of such lesions requires a proper case history, extraoral and intraoral examination, and, in some cases, biopsy, aspiration cytology, and laboratory investigations. Here we present a case of purple lesion on the buccal mucosa of a 34-year-old male patient which was provisionally diagnosed as mucocele but on the basis of histopathological picture it was finally diagnosed as angiofibroma, and we also discuss the clinical and histopathological differential diagnosis.
Research on Construction Optimization of Three‐Connected‐Arch Hydraulic Underground Cavities Considering Creep Property
Authors: Zhao Bao-yun , Xu Nian-chun , Li Zi-yun , Wu Tong-qing
Published: August 2014

In order to prevent the creep of surrounding rock in long‐term construction, with consideration of different construction methods and other factors during the construction of large‐scale underground cavity, three different construction schemes are designed for specific projects and a nonlinear viscoelastic‐plastic creep model which can describe rock accelerated creeping is introduced and applied to construction optimization calculation of the large‐scale three‐connected‐arch hydraulic underground cavity through secondary development of FLAC3D. The results show that the adoption of middle cavity construction method, the second construction method, enables the maximum vault displacement of 16.04 mm. This method results in less stress redistribution and plastic zone expansion to the cavity’s surrounding rock than the other two schemes, which is the safest construction scheme. The conclusion can provide essential reference and guidance to similar engineering for construction optimization.
An Algorithm for Computing Geometric Mean of Two Hermitian Positive Definite Matrices via Matrix Sign
Authors: Soleymani F. , Sharifi M. , Shateyi S. , Khaksar Haghani F.
Published: August 2014

Using the relation between a principal matrix square root and its inverse with the geometric mean, we present a fast algorithm for computing the geometric mean of two Hermitian positive definite matrices. The algorithm is stable and possesses a high convergence order. Some experiments are included to support the proposed computational algorithm.
Biomimetic Tissue–Engineered Systems for Advancing Cancer Research: NCI Strategic Workshop Report
Authors: Schuessler Teresa K. , Chan Xin Yi , Chen Huanhuan Joyce , Ji Kyungmin , Park Kyung Min , Roshan-Ghias Alireza , Sethi Pallavi , Thakur Archana , Tian Xi , Villasante Aranzazu , Zervantonakis Ioannis K. , Moore Nicole M. , Nagahara Larry A. , Kuhn Nastaran Z.
Published: August 2014

Advanced technologies and biomaterials developed for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine present tractable biomimetic systems with potential applications for cancer research. Recently, the National Cancer Institute convened a Strategic Workshop to explore the use of tissue biomanufacturing for development of dynamic, physiologically relevant in vitro and ex vivo biomimetic systems to study cancer biology and drug efficacy. The workshop provided a forum to identify current progress, research gaps, and necessary steps to advance the field. Opportunities discussed included development of tumor biomimetic systems with an emphasis on reproducibility and validation of new biomimetic tumor models, as described in this report. Cancer Res; 74(19); 5359–63. ©2014 AACR.
Nutrition and Physical Activity in CKD patients
Authors: Cupisti Adamasco , D'Alessandro Claudia , Fumagalli Giordano , Vigo Valentina , Meola Mario , Cianchi Caterina , Egidi Maria F.
Published: August 2014

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are at risk for protein-energy wasting, abnormal body composition and impaired physical capacity. These complications lead to increased risk of hospitalization, morbidity and mortality.In CKD patient as well as in healthy people, there is a close association between nutrition and physical activity. Namely, inadequate nutrient (energy) intake impairs physical performance thus favoring a sedentary lifestyle: this further contributes to loss of muscle strength and mass, which limit the quality of life and rehabilitation of CKD patients. In CKD as well as in end-stage-renal-disease patients, regular physical activity coupled with adequate energy and protein intake counteracts protein-energy wasting and related comorbidity and mortality. In summary, exercise training can positively influence nutritional status and the perception of well-being of CKD patients and may facilitate the anabolic effects of nutritional interventions.
Salt Restriction in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Simple Need or a Must?
Authors: Mallamaci Francesca , Tripepi Giovanni
Published: August 2014

Dietary salt restriction is one of the most important non pharmacological intervention in the management of hypertension and cardiovascular complications. In Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients, observational and recent interventional studies investigating the relationship between sodium intake and renal outcomes suggest that low salt diet is warranted in this high risk category of patients. Moreover reducing and maintaining a low salt intake in these patients plays a fundamental role for maximizing the beneficial effect of ACE inhibitors on CKD progression. On the other hand, in hypertensive patients there is experimental evidence indicating that a very low sodium diet (<50 mEq/day) generates a pro-inflammatory phenotype characterized by an increase in Procalcitonin and TNF-alpha and a reduction in an anti-inflammatory cytokine like Adiponectin. In this brief review the main mechanisms whereby salt intake may determine kidney damage and studies showing that salt restriction may have a beneficial effect in CKD patients will be discussed.
Dialysis Exercise Team: The Way to Sustain Exercise Programs in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Capitanini Alessandro , Lange Sara , D'Alessandro Claudia , Salotti Emilio , Tavolaro Alba , Baronti Maria E. , Giannese Domenico , Cupisti Adamasco
Published: August 2014

Patients affected by end-stage renal disease (ESRD) show quite lower physical activity and exercise capacity when compared to healthy individuals. In addition, a sedentary lifestyle is favoured by lack of a specific counseling on exercise implementation in the nephrology care setting. Increasing physical activity level should represent a goal for every dialysis patient care management. Three crucial elements of clinical care may contribute to sustain a hemodialysis exercise program: a) involvement of exercise professionals, b) real commitment of nephrologists and dialysis professionals, c) individual patient adaptation of the exercise program. Dialysis staff have a crucial role to encourage and assist patients during intra-dialysis exercise, but other professionals should be included in the ideal “exercise team” for dialysis patients. Evaluation of general condition, comorbidities (especially cardiovascular), nutritional status and physical exercise capacity are mandatory to propose an exercise program, in either extra-dialysis or intra-dialysis setting. To this aim, nephrologist should lead a team of specialists and professionals including cardiologist, physiotherapist, exercise physiologist, renal dietician and nurse. In this scenario, dialysis nurses play a pivotal role since they guarantee a constant and direct approach. Unfortunately dialysis staff may often lack of information and formation about exercise management while they take care patients during the dialysis session. Building an effective exercise team, promoting the culture of exercise and increasing physical activity levels lead to a more complete and modern clinical care management of ESRD patients.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) as a Systemic Disease: Whole Body Autoregulation and Inter-Organ Cross-Talk
Authors: Zoccali Carmine , Tripepi Giovanni , Dounousi Evangelia , Mallamaci Francesca
Published: August 2014

The inter-organ cross-talk and the functional integration of organ systems is an exceedingly complex process which until now has been investigated with a reductionist approach. CKD perturbs the inter-organ cross-talk and demands central resetting of autonomic (nervous) control of organ systems. Due to limitations inherent to the reductionist approach, we currently identify CKD-related pseudo-syndromes and largely fail at describing the complex systemic inter-relationships set into motion by renal damage and renal dysfunction. A mature technology for a system-analysis approach to physiology and pathophysiology of CKD now exists. System biology will allow in depth understanding of complex diseases like CKD and will set the stage for predictive, preventive and personalized medicine, a long-standing dream of doctors and patients alike.
Chronic Renal Disease and Risk of Cardiovascular Morbidity-Mortality
Authors: Santoro Antonio , Mandreoli Marcora
Published: August 2014

The pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease in CKD differs subtly from that of non-CKD patients. As renal function declines, the role and impact of treating classical risk factors may change and diminish. However, hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia and smoking cessation management should be optimized and may require multiple agents and approaches, particularly as CKD advances. Hypertension treatment would appear to be one management area in which performance is less than ideal. Moreover there are mechanisms and risk factors that are specific to CKD, capable of triggering a vascular pathology and that justify the surplus of CV morbidity in CKD patients and that require we consider CKD as a CV risk factor per se. In the initial stages of CKD it would be advisable to implement all the preventative measures to stem the onset of CV disease, whereas in the more advanced stages a multifactorial approach is likely to be necessary, as we have learned from the STENO-study within the diabetes.
A Systematic Review on the Quality of Life Benefits after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in the Elderly
Authors: Shan Leonard , Saxena Akshat , McMahon Ross
Published: August 2014

Aims: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is being increasingly performed on elderly patients with acceptable peri-procedural outcomes and long-term survival. We aim to systematically review the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following PCI in the elderly which is an important measure of procedural success. Methods: A systematic review of clinical studies before September 2012 was performed to identify HRQOL in the elderly after PCI. Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Quality appraisal of each study was also performed using pre-defined criteria. HRQOL results were synthesised through a narrative review with full tabulation of results of all included studies. Results: Elderly patients have significant improvements in cardiovascular well-being. Early HRQOL appears improved from baseline, but recovery in physical health may be slower than in younger patients. HRQOL is comparable to an age-matched general population and younger patients undergoing PCI. Conservative management is not able to offer the same HRQOL benefits. Coronary artery bypass graft surgery may be superior to PCI in the very elderly. Significant heterogeneity and bias exists. Lack of appropriate data precluded meta-analysis. Conclusion: HRQOL after PCI in the elderly can improve for at least 1 year across a broad range of health domains, and is comparable to an age-matched general population and younger patients undergoing PCI. Given a limited number of articles and patients included, more prospective studies are needed to better identify the benefits for elderly patients.
The Effectiveness of the Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy for Chronic Depression: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wiersma Jenneke E. , Van Schaik Digna J.F. , Hoogendorn Adriaan W. , Dekker Jack J. , Van Hendrikus L. , Schoevers Robert A. , Blom Marc B.J. , Maas Kristel , Smit Johannes H. , McCullough Jr. James P. , Beekman Aartjan T.F. , Van Oppen Patricia
Published: August 2014

Background: It is widely agreed that chronic depression is difficult to treat, knowledge about optimal treatment approaches is emerging. Method: A multisite randomized controlled trial was conducted comparing the cognitive behavioral analysis system of psychotherapy (CBASP), a psychotherapy model developed specifically to treat chronic depression (n = 67) with care as usual (CAU; evidence-based treatments, n = 72) over a period of 52 weeks, with 23 sessions on average, in 3 outpatient clinics in the Netherlands. In both arms algorithm-based pharmacotherapy was provided. Patients (aged 18-65) met criteria for a DSM-IV diagnosis of major depressive disorder with diagnostic specifiers (chronic, without interepisode recovery) or with co-occurring dysthymic disorder indicating a chronic course. The Inventory for Depressive Symptomatology (IDS) Self-Report was used as the primary outcome measure. Mixed-effects linear regression analysis was used to compare the changes on the IDS scores between CBASP and CAU. The IDS was administered before treatment, and after 8, 16, 32 and 52 weeks. Results: At week 52, patients assigned to CBASP had a greater reduction of depressive symptoms compared to patients assigned to CAU (t = -2.00, p = 0.05). However, CBASP and CAU did not differ from each other on the IDS after 8 weeks (t = 0.49, p = 0.63), 16 weeks (t = -0.03, p = 0.98) and 32 weeks (t = -0.17, p = 0.86) of treatment. Conclusions: This trial shows that CBASP is at least as effective as standard evidence-based treatments for chronic depression. In the long run, CBASP appears to have an added effect.
Decreased Occipital Cortical Glutamate Levels in Response to Successful Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Pharmacotherapy for Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Abdallah Chadi G. , Niciu Mark J. , Fenton Lisa R. , Fasula Madonna K. , Jiang Lihong , Black Anne , Rothman Douglas L. , Mason Graeme F. , Sanacora Gerard
Published: August 2014

Background: Previous studies have demonstrated that antidepressant medication and electroconvulsive therapy increase occipital cortical γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in major depressive disorder (MDD), but a small pilot study failed to show a similar effect of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on occipital GABA. In light of these findings we sought to determine if baseline GABA levels predict treatment response and to broaden the analysis to other metabolites and neurotransmitters in this larger study. Methods: A total of 40 MDD outpatients received baseline proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), and 30 subjects completed both pre- and post-CBT 1H-MRS; 9 CBT nonresponders completed an open-label medication phase followed by an additional/3rd 1H-MRS. The magnitude of treatment response was correlated with occipital amino acid neurotransmitter levels. Results: Baseline GABA did not predict treatment outcome. Furthermore, there was no significant effect of CBT on GABA levels. However, we found a significant group × time interaction (F1, 28 = 6.30, p = 0.02), demonstrating reduced glutamate in CBT responders, with no significant glutamate change in CBT nonresponders. Conclusions: These findings corroborate the lack of effect of successful CBT on occipital cortical GABA levels in a larger sample. A reduction in glutamate levels following treatment, on the other hand, correlated with successful CBT and antidepressant medication response. Based on this finding and other reports, decreased occipital glutamate may be an antidepressant response biomarker. Healthy control comparator and nonintervention groups may shed light on the sensitivity and specificity of these results.
Effects of Psychotherapy on DNA Strand Break Accumulation Originating from Traumatic Stress
Authors: Morath Julia , Moreno-Villanueva Maria , Hamuni Gilava , Kolassa Stephan , Ruf-Leuschner Martina , Schauer Maggie , Elbert Thomas , Bürkle Alexander , Kolassa Iris-Tatjana
Published: August 2014

Background: Previous research reveals an association between traumatic stress and an increased risk for numerous diseases, including cancer. At the molecular level, stress may increase carcinogenesis via increased DNA damage and impaired DNA repair mechanisms. We assessed DNA breakage in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and measured the cellular capacity to repair single-strand breaks after exposure to ionizing X-radiation. We also investigated the effect of psychotherapy on both DNA breakage and DNA repair. Methods: In a first study we investigated DNA breakage and repair in 34 individuals with PTSD and 31 controls. Controls were subdivided into 11 trauma-exposed subjects and 20 individuals without trauma exposure. In a second study, we analysed the effect of psychotherapy (Narrative Exposure Therapy) on DNA breakage and repair. Thirty-eight individuals with PTSD were randomly assigned to either a treatment or a waitlist control condition. Follow-up was performed 4 months and 1 year after therapy. Results: In study 1 we found higher levels of basal DNA breakage in individuals with PTSD and trauma-exposed subjects than in controls, indicating that traumatic stress is associated with DNA breakage. However, single-strand break repair was unimpaired in individuals with PTSD. In study 2, we found that psychotherapy reversed not only PTSD symptoms, but also DNA strand break accumulation. Conclusion: Our results show - for the first time in vivo - an association between traumatic stress and DNA breakage; they also demonstrate changes at the molecular level, i.e., the integrity of DNA, after psychotherapeutic interventions.
Geometrical and Stress Analysis of Factors Associated With Stent Fracture After Melody Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation
Authors: Cosentino Daria , Quail Michael A. , Pennati Giancarlo , Capelli Claudio , Bonhoeffer Philipp , Díaz-Zuccarini Vanessa , Taylor Andrew M. , Schievano Silvia
Published: August 2014

Background—

Patients treated with the Melody device (Medtronic) for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation experience stent fractures in ≈25% of the cases. The aim of this study is to identify the risk factors associated with fracture using 3-dimensional (3D) analyses.

Methods and Results—

In situ 3D shape of the Melody stent was reconstructed from 42 patients using procedural biplane fluoroscopy images, after balloon inflation, at systole and diastole. Four geometric parameters at systole and their variation during balloon deflation and cardiac cycles were measured to describe the 3D strut, cell, section, and stent configuration. Furthermore, patient-specific computer simulations were set up to replicate the history of stent deformations for each patient. Maximum and minimum principal stresses resulting from these analyses were monitored during balloon deflation and cardiac cycle. Univariate logistic regression analyses of 21 geometric parameters and of 4 stress parameters respectively, identified the decreased stent circularity after balloon deflation (odds ratio 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.96–0.99;
P
=0.006) and large compressive stresses during balloon deflation (odds ratio, 0.98; 0.96–0.997;
P
=0.03), as associated with the risk of fracture. In a multivariable logistic regression model, the 2 covariates identified on univariate analysis (1 geometric and 1 stress) were found to be independently associated with the risk of fracture. The resultant statistical model correctly identified fracture/no fracture in 93% of patients.

Conclusions—

Changes in stent section shape after balloon deflation are important variables influencing fracture. This methodology could help design tailored follow-up for patients after percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation.
Effects of Transendocardial CD34
+
Cell Transplantation in Patients With Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Poglajen Gregor , Sever Matjaz , Cukjati Marko , Cernelc Peter , Knezevic Ivan , Zemljic Gregor , Haddad François , Wu Joseph C. , Vrtovec Bojan
Published: August 2014

Background—

We investigated the effects of transendocardial CD34
+
cell transplantation in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Methods and Results—

In a prospective crossover study, we enrolled 33 patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy with New York Heart Association class III and left ventricular ejection fraction <40%. In phase 1, patients were treated with medical therapy for 6 months. Thereafter, all patients underwent transendocardial CD34
+
cell transplantation. Peripheral blood CD34
+
cells were mobilized by granulocyte colony stimulating factor, collected via apheresis, and injected transendocardially in the areas of hibernating myocardium. Patients were followed up for 6 months after the procedure (phase 2). Two patients died during phase 1 and none during phase 2. The remaining 31 patients were 85% men, aged 57±6 years. In phase 1, we found no change in left ventricular ejection fraction (from 25.2±6.2% to 27.1±6.6%;
P
=0.23), N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (from 3322±3411 to 3672±5165 pg/mL;
P
=0.75) or 6-minute walk distance (from 373±68 to 411±116 m;
P
=0.17). In contrast, in phase 2 there was an improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (from 27.1±6.6% to 34.9±10.9%;
P
=0.001), increase in 6-minute walk distance (from 411±116 to 496±113 m;
P
=0.001), and a decrease in N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (from 3672±5165 to 1488±1847 pg/mL;
P
=0.04). The average number of injected CD34
+
cells was 90.6±7.5×10
6
. Higher doses of CD34
+
cells and a more diffuse distribution of transendocardial cell injections were associated with better clinical response.

Conclusions—

Transendocardial CD34
+
cell transplantation may be associated with improved left ventricular function, decreased N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide levels, and better exercise capacity in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. These effects seem to be particularly pronounced in patients receiving diffusely distributed cell injections and high-dose cell therapy.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01350310.
Prevalence and Prediction of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients With Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: An Jihyun , Shim Ju Hyun , Kim Seon-Ok , Lee Danbi , Kim Kang Mo , Lim Young-Suk , Lee Han Chu , Chung Young-Hwa , Lee Yung Sang
Published: August 2014

Background—

There is conflict regarding the prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with liver cirrhosis. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of silent CAD in comparison with the general population, and to identify the relevant risk factors in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods and Results—

This retrospective study included 1045 prospectively registered consecutive patients with liver cirrhosis without any history of chest pain or CAD, who underwent computerized coronary angiography as a pretransplant workup. These were matched with 6283 controls with healthy livers, based on propensity scores according to established cardiovascular risk factors. Obstructive CAD was defined as ≥50% luminal narrowing in any artery. A matched analysis of 853 pairs showed that the proportion of subjects with obstructive CAD did not differ significantly between the cirrhotic and control groups (7.2% versus 7.9%,
P
=0.646), in agreement with the outcome of multivariate analysis for its predictors, with an adjusted odds ratio for liver cirrhosis of 1.06 (
P
=0.690). Nonobstructive CAD was more prevalent in the matched cirrhotic cases (30.6% versus 23.4%,
P
=0.001). In the pooled cirrhotic cohort, older age, male sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and alcoholic cirrhosis were independently associated with obstructive CAD (adjusted odds ratios, 1.07, 2.74, 1.69, 2.37, and 2.17, respectively;
P
<0.05 for all), whereas liver function and coagulation parameters were not.

Conclusions—

Asymptomatic cirrhotic patients and nonhepatic subjects are similar in terms of the prevalence of occult obstructive CAD. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors are related to critical coronary stenosis in cirrhotic patients, and thus may be helpful indicators for more careful preoperative evaluation of coronary risk.
Galectin‐3, a Biomarker Linking Oxidative Stress and Inflammation With the Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Atherothrombosis
Authors: Madrigal‐Matute Julio , Lindholt Jes Sandal , Fernandez‐Garcia Carlos Ernesto , Benito‐Martin Alberto , Burillo Elena , Zalba Guillermo , Beloqui Oscar , Llamas‐Granda Patricia , Ortiz Alberto , Egido Jesus , Blanco‐Colio Luis Miguel , Martin‐Ventura Jose Luis
Published: August 2014

Background

Galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) participates in different mechanisms involved in atherothrombosis, such as inflammation, proliferation, or macrophage chemotaxis. Thus, there have been committed intensive efforts to elucidate the function of Gal‐3 in cardiovascular (
CV
) diseases. The role of Gal‐3 as a circulating biomarker has been demonstrated in patients with heart failure, but its importance as a biomarker in atherothrombosis is still unknown.

Methods and Results

Because Gal‐3 is involved in monocyte‐to‐macrophage transition, we used fresh isolated monocytes and the in vitro model of macrophage differentiation of
THP
‐1 cells stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate (
PMA)
. Gal‐3 release is increased by
PMA
in human monocytes and macrophages, a process involving exosomes and regulated by reactive oxygen species/
NADPH
oxidase activity. In asymptomatic subjects (n=199), Gal‐3 plasma levels are correlated with
NADPH
oxidase activity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (
r
=0.476;
P
<0.001) and carotid intima‐media thickness (
r
=0.438;
P
<0.001), a surrogate marker of atherosclerosis. Accordingly, Gal‐3 plasma concentrations are increased in patients with carotid atherosclerosis (n=158), compared to control subjects (n=115; 14.3 [10.7 to 16.9] vs. 10.4 [8.6 to 12.5] ng/
mL
;
P
<0.001). Finally, on a 5‐year follow‐up study in patients with peripheral artery disease, Gal‐3 concentrations are significantly and independently associated with an increased risk for CV mortality (hazard ratio=2.24, 95% confidence interval: 1.06 to 4.73,
P
<0.05).

Conclusions

Gal‐3 extracellular levels could reflect key underlying mechanisms involved in atherosclerosis etiology, development, and plaque rupture, such as inflammation, infiltration of circulating cells and oxidative stress. Moreover, circulating Gal‐3 concentrations are associated with clinical outcomes in patients with atherothrombosis.
Vietnamese Issidae (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea): new taxa, new records and new distribution data
Authors: GNEZDILOV VLADIMIR M. , THIERRY BOURGOIN , SOULIER-PERKINS ADELINE
Published: August 2014

An updated list of Issidae known from Vietnam is provided. Two new species, one from the genus Darwallia Gnezdilov, 2010, and another one from a new genus are described from the Hòn Bà massif in Central Vietnam. A key to species of the genus Darwallia is provided. Gelastyrella hainanensis Ran et Liang, 2006 is placed in synonymy under Thabena litaoensis Yang, 1994. This last taxon and the genus Gergithoides Schumacher, 1915 are recorded for the first time for Vietnamese fauna. New records in Vietnam are given for Tetrica philo Fennah, 1978 and Gergithus iguchii Matsumura, 1916.
Afrotropical flower flies (Diptera: Syrphidae). A new genus and species from Kenya, with a review of the melanostomine group of genera
Authors: THOMPSON F. CHRISTIAN , SKEVINGTON JEFFREY H.
Published: August 2014

A new genus and species of flower flies (Diptera: Syrphidae: Syrphinae: Syrphini) are described from central Africa (Kenya & Uganda), Afrostoma quadripunctatum. A key to the Afrotropical genera of the subfamily Syrphinae is given. A review of the melanostomine [Bacchini] genera and subgenera is provided along with a key to them. Phylogenetic placement of Afrostoma is included based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) data.
Seasonality of the Urban Heat Island Effect in Madison, Wisconsin
Authors: Schatz Jason , Kucharik Christopher J.
Published: August 2014

Spatial and temporal variation in the urban heat island (UHI) effect from March 2012 through October 2013 was characterized using continuous temperature measurements from an array of up to 151 fixed sensors in and around Madison, Wisconsin, an urban area of population 407 000 surrounded by lakes and a rural landscape of agriculture, forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Spatially, the density of the built environment was the primary driver of temperature patterns, with local modifying effects of lake proximity and topographic relief. Temporally, wind speed, cloud cover, relative humidity, soil moisture, and snow all influenced UHI intensity, although the magnitude and significance of their effects varied by season and time of day. Seasonally, UHI intensities tended to be higher during the warmer summer months and lower during the colder months. Seasonal trends in monthly average wind speed and cloud cover tracked annual trends in UHI intensity, with clearer, calmer conditions that are conducive to the stronger UHIs being more common during the summer. However, clear, calm summer nights still had higher UHI intensities than clear, calm winter nights, indicating that some background factor, such as vegetation, shifted baseline UHI intensities throughout the year. The authors propose that regional vegetation and snow-cover conditions set seasonal baselines for UHI intensity and that factors like wind and clouds modified daily UHI intensity around that baseline.
Origin of Decadal-Scale, Eastward-Propagating Heat Content Anomalies in the North Pacific*
Authors: Taguchi Bunmei , Schneider Niklas
Published: August 2014

Upper ocean heat content (OHC) is at the heart of natural climate variability on interannual-to-decadal time scales, providing climate memory and the source of decadal prediction skill. In the midlatitude North Pacific Ocean, OHC signals are often found to propagate eastward as opposed to the frequently observed westward propagation of sea surface height, another variable that represents the ocean subsurface state. This dichotomy is investigated using a 150-yr coupled GCM integration. Simulated OHC signals are distinguished in terms of two processes that can support eastward propagation: higher baroclinic Rossby wave (RW) modes that are associated with density perturbation, and spiciness anomalies due to density-compensated temperature and salinity anomalies. The analysis herein suggests a unique role of the Kuroshio–Oyashio Extension (KOE) region as an origin of the spiciness and higher mode RW signals. Wind-forced, westward-propagating equivalent barotropic RWs cause meridional shifts of the subarctic front in the KOE region. The associated anomalous circulation crosses mean temperature and salinity gradients and thereby generates spiciness anomalies. These anomalies are advected eastward by the mean currents, while the associated surface temperature anomalies are damped by air–sea heat exchange. The accompanying surface buoyancy flux generates higher baroclinic, eastward-propagating RWs. The results suggest that the large OHC variability in the western boundary currents and their extensions is associated with the spiciness gradients and axial variability of oceanic fronts.
Assessment of Modes of Interannual Variability of Southern Hemisphere Atmospheric Circulation in CMIP5 Models
Authors: Grainger Simon , Frederiksen Carsten S. , Zheng Xiaogu
Published: August 2014

An assessment is made of the modes of interannual variability in the seasonal mean summer and winter Southern Hemisphere (SH) 500-hPa geopotential height in the twentieth century in models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) phase 5 (CMIP5) dataset. Modes of variability of both the slow (signal) and intraseasonal (noise) components in the CMIP5 models are evaluated against those estimated from reanalysis data. There is general improvement in the leading modes of the slow (signal) component in CMIP5 models compared with the CMIP phase 3 (CMIP3) dataset. The largest improvement is in the spatial structures of the modes related to El Niño–Southern Oscillation variability in SH summer. An overall score metric is significantly higher for CMIP5 over CMIP3 in both seasons. The leading modes in the intraseasonal noise component are generally well reproduced in CMIP5 models, and there are few differences from CMIP3. A new total overall score metric is used to rank the CMIP5 models over both seasons. Weighting the seasons by the relative spread of overall scores is shown to be suitable for generating multimodel ensembles for further analysis of interannual variability. In multimodel ensembles, it is found that an ensemble of size 5 or 6 is sufficient in SH summer to reproduce well the dominant modes. In contrast, about 13 models are typically are required in SH winter. It is shown that it is necessary that the selected models individually reproduce well the leading modes of the slow component.
Social Media as Social Lubricant
Authors: Leonardi Paul M. , Meyer Samantha R.
Published: August 2014

Knowledge stickiness often impedes knowledge transfer. When knowledge is complex and the knowledge seeker lacks intimacy with the knowledge source, knowledge sticks in its point of origin because the knowledge seeker faces ambiguity about the best way to acquire the needed knowledge. We theorize that, given the extent of that ambiguity, knowledge seekers will make a choice to either ask for needed knowledge immediately after deciding it is needed, or wait and ask for it at a later date. We hypothesize that when knowledge is sticky, knowledge seekers will delay asking for knowledge and, in the interim period, use an enterprise social networking site to gather information that can lubricate stuck knowledge, such as how, when, and in what way to ask for the desired knowledge. We propose that by doing this, knowledge seekers can increase their ultimate satisfaction with the knowledge once they ask for it. Data describing specific instances of knowledge transfer occurring in a large telecommunications firm supported these hypotheses, showing that knowledge transfer is made easier by the fact that enterprise social networking sites make other peoples’ communications visible to casual observers such that knowledge seekers can gather information about the knowledge and its source simply by watching his or her actions through the technology, even if they never interacted with the source directly themselves. The findings show that simple awareness of others’ communications (what we call ambient awareness) played a pivotal role in helping knowledge seekers to obtain interpersonal and knowledge-related material with which to lubricate their interactions with knowledge sources.
The pros and cons of prohibiting drugs
Authors: Weatherburn Don
Published: August 2014

In September 2012, a group known as Australia 21 called for a rethink on the prohibition against illegal drugs. If the response from Australian Federal, State, and Territory Governments is any guide, the call fell on deaf ears. In recent years, even scholarly debate about the merits of prohibition appears to have subsided. This paper acknowledges that social and financial costs of the prohibition against illegal drugs but argues that prohibition also prevents a great deal of harm. The multifarious nature of drug-related harm and the differences between people in the weight assigned to various harms makes it impossible say what policy best minimizes drug-related harm.
The abject failure of drug prohibition? Really?
Authors: Weatherburn Don
Published: August 2014

The principal weakness with Alex Wodak's response to my original article is that the points he makes, whether accepted or not, have little bearing on the arguments I put. He is right to point out that there are substantial human and financial costs associated with drug prohibition. I acknowledged these costs at some length in my original paper. The fundamental question for policy makers, however, is not whether drug prohibition carries significant human and financial costs. Most criminal prohibitions carry substantial human and financial costs. We maintain them because we believe they also produce benefits and that (for at least some outcomes) the benefits outweigh the costs. Wodak ignores or downplays the benefits associated with drug prohibition. His arguments betray a misunderstanding of the mechanisms through which prohibition operates and of the kind of evidence required to determine whether a particular drug policy is a success or failure. I conclude with Caulkins and Lee (2012) that, given current knowledge, legalisation of any addictive or dangerous drug would be a ‘leap into uncharted and potentially dangerous waters'.
Category predication work, discursive leadership and strategic sensemaking
Authors: Whittle Andrea , Housley William , Gilchrist Alan , Mueller Frank , Lenney Peter
Published: August 2014

Categorization is known to play an important role in organizations because categories ‘frame’ situations in particular ways, informing managerial sensemaking and enabling managerial intervention. In this article, we advance existing work by examining the role of categorization practices in discursive leadership during periods of strategic change. Drawing on data from an ethnographic action research study of a strategic change initiative in a multi-national corporation, we use membership categorization analysis to develop a framework for studying ‘category predicates’ − defined as the stock of organizational knowledge and associated reasoning procedures concerning the kinds of activities, attributes, rights, responsibilities, expectations, and so on, that are ‘tied’ or ‘bound’ to organizational categories. Our analysis shows that discursive leadership enabled a radical shift in sensemaking about organizational structure categories through a process of ‘frame-breaking’ and ‘re-framing’. In so doing, the leader co-constructed a ‘definition of the situation’ that built a compelling vision and concrete plan for strategic change. We go on to trace the organizational consequences and material outcomes of this shift in sensemaking for the company in question. We conclude by arguing that ‘category predication work’ comprises a key leadership competence and plays an important role in organizational and strategic change processes.
A simple cage-autonomous method for the maintenance of the barrier status of germ-free mice during experimentation
Authors: Hecht G , Bar-Nathan C , Milite G , Alon I , Moshe Y , Greenfeld L , Dotsenko N , Suez J , Levy M , Thaiss C A , Dafni H , Elinav E , Harmelin A
Published: August 2014

The use of germ-free (GF) isolators for microbiome-related research is exponentially increasing, yet limited by its cost, isolator size and potential for trans-contamination. As such, current isolator technology is highly limiting to researchers engaged in short period experiments involving multiple mouse strains and employing a variety of mono-inoculated microorganisms. In this study, we evaluate the use of positive pressure Isocages as a solution for short period studies (days to 2–3 weeks) of experimentation with GF mice at multiple simultaneous conditions. We demonstrate that this new Isocage technology is cost-effective and room-sparing, and enables maintenance of multiple simultaneous groups of GF mice. Using this technology, transferring GF mice from isolators to Isocage racks for experimentation, where they are kept under fully germ-free conditions, enables parallel inoculation with different bacterial strains and simultaneous experimentation with multiple research conditions. Altogether, the new GF Isocage technology enables the expansion of GF capabilities in a safe and cost-effective manner that can facilitate the growth, elaboration and flexibility of microbiome research.
The effect of carbon dioxide flow rate on the euthanasia of laboratory mice
Authors: Moody CM , Chua B , Weary DM
Published: August 2014

Laboratory rodents are commonly euthanized by exposure to gradually increasing concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2). Current recommended flow rates range between 10 and 30% chamber vol/min and result in insensibility before exposure to painful concentrations (<40%). However, this method causes dyspnea, indicated by deep, rapid breathing. In humans dyspnea is associated with a negative affective experience. Sensations of dyspnea may explain why rodents find CO2 concentrations >3% aversive. This study aimed to assess the effect of CO2 flow rates on time between the onset of dyspnea and various measures of insensibility (recumbency, loss of the righting reflex and loss of the pedal withdrawal reflex) to identify flow rates that minimize the potential experience of dyspnea. The results of this study indicate that a flow rate of 50% chamber vol/min, while holding the CO2 cage concentration just below 40%, minimizes the interval between the onset of labored breathing and recumbency. Using a 50% flow rate this interval averaged (±SE) 30.3 ± 2.9 s versus 49.7 ± 2.9 s at 20% chamber vol/min (F3,22 = 7.83, P = 0.0013). Similarily, the interval between the onset of labored breathing and loss of the righting reflex averaged 38.2 ± 2.4 s at a flow rate of 50% versus 59.2 ± 2.4 s at 20% chamber vol/min of CO2 (F3,22 = 13.62, P < 0.0001). We conclude that higher flow rates reduce the duration of dyspnea, but even at the highest flow rate mice experience more than 30 s between the onset of dyspnea and the most conservative estimate of insensibility.
Mismatch: Globalization and Native Speaker Models of Linguistic Competence
Authors: Hodgson Kevin Michael
Published: August 2014

Although the paradigm shift towards English as an International Language (EIL) has been generally accepted within the academic community, a valorization of native speaker norms continues to be prevalent among many non-native speakers (NNSs). Through data drawn from a qualitative questionnaire and proficiency assessment results (TOEIC), this mixed methods study investigates the degree to which native speaker models of communicative competence affect the linguistic self-confidence (LSC) and performance (LP) of 83 Japanese employees of a large, international corporation. Although the results were inconclusive for the latter inquiry, they show that participants who lack experience using English in international contexts have a greater tendency to valorize Native Speaker norms, a belief which, in turn, negatively affects their linguistic self-confidence and attitudes towards the target language (TL). Supplementary data were also collected by interviewing the participants in person or by e-mail in order to discern deeper insights into this particular psycho-linguistic phenomenon, and responses indicated that employees with greater experience using English for their work were much more articulate in explaining or justifying the reasons for their attitudes towards native-speaker norms.
Codeswitching in the Language Classroom: A Study of Four EFL Teachers’ Cognition
Authors: Samar Reza Ghafar , Moradkhani Shahab
Published: August 2014

Although many language teachers resort to their first language (L1) at various junctures during their practice, not many studies have tried to understand the reasons for this from teachers’ personal perspectives. This study aimed at investigating English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers’ cognitive processes during their classroom codeswitching. Stimulated recall technique was used to tap into teachers’ cognition. An entire session of four EFL teachers’ classroom practice was video-recorded. This was followed by an interview session in which participants tried to recall their thoughts while watching their own performance. The recollections, which were recorded and transcribed, were then analyzed using a three phase model of theme assignment, categorization, and labelling. The findings showed that eight factors were mentioned by teachers as the reasons for their codeswitching with Students’ Better Comprehension and Efficiency constituting the most and least important ones, respectively. Implications are drawn for classroom practice and suggestions for future research are provided.