bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Walking Speed and Step Length Asymmetry Modify the Energy Cost of Walking After Stroke
Authors: Awad Louis N. , Palmer Jacqueline A. , Pohlig Ryan T. , Binder-Macleod Stuart A. , Reisman Darcy S.
Published: October 2014

Background. A higher energy cost of walking poststroke has been linked to reduced walking performance and reduced participation in the community. Objective. To determine the contribution of postintervention improvements in walking speed and spatiotemporal gait asymmetry to the reduction in the energy cost of walking after stroke. Methods. In all, 42 individuals with chronic hemiparesis (>6 months poststroke) were recruited to participate in 12 weeks of walking rehabilitation. The energy cost of walking, walking speed, and step length, swing time, and stance time asymmetries were calculated pretraining and posttraining. Sequential regression analyses tested the cross-sectional (ie, pretraining) and longitudinal (ie, posttraining changes) relationships between the energy cost of walking versus speed and each measure of asymmetry. Results. Pretraining walking speed (β = −.506) and swing time asymmetry (β = .403) predicted pretraining energy costs: adj R2 = 0.713; F(3, 37) = 34.05; P < .001. In contrast, change in walking speed (β = .340) and change in step length asymmetry (β = .934) predicted change in energy costs with a significant interaction between these independent predictors: adj R2 = 0.699; F(4, 31) = 21.326; P < .001. Moderation by the direction or the magnitude of pretraining asymmetry was not found. Conclusions. For persons in the chronic phase of stroke recovery, faster and more symmetric walking after intervention appears to be more energetically advantageous than merely walking faster or more symmetrically. This finding has important functional implications, given the relationship between the energy cost of walking and community walking participation.
Securitizing cultural diversity: Dutch public broadcasting in post-multicultural and de-pillarized times
Authors: Engelbert Jiska , Awad Isabel
Published: October 2014

This article reconstructs the post-2008 response of the Dutch public service broadcaster, Nederlandse Publieke Omroep (NPO), to political pressures to reconsider its remit vis-à-vis diversity. It focuses on NPO’s reliance on pluriformity – a trope that describes hegemonic categories of cultural belonging in the Netherlands – to define which ideological differences deserve support. Pluriformity works because it incorporates and accommodates attacks on the value and remit of public service broadcasting. However, this achievement comes at a price. Through the way in which NPO strategically imagines its public remit, segments its audiences and produces diversity programming, the broadcaster reinforces a hierarchy of cultural difference. In this hierarchy, only those groups in society whose differences can be reduced to non-structural and hegemonic convictions are entitled to representation and recognition by the public broadcaster. As a result, cultural diversity is being securitized in and through the very institution that should protect minority representation.
Media freedoms and covert diplomacy: Turkey challenges Europe over Kurdish broadcasts
Authors: Sinclair Christian , Smets Kevin
Published: October 2014

Focusing on Kurdish television broadcasts in Europe, this article sheds light on how minority broadcasting interrelates with national and intergovernmental political agendas and issues of national security. Drawing from a thorough analysis of policy and diplomatic documents, press articles, academic literature and two expert interviews and focusing on three Kurdish TV channels in Europe, Med-TV, Medya-TV and Roj-TV, it describes how the contrast between Turkish and European media freedoms and minority rights has driven Kurdish broadcasting to develop in Europe, rather than in Turkey. It reveals how, in an effort to obstruct these broadcasting activities, Turkey’s diplomatic undertakings have been able to sway opinions in several countries and get them to endorse more restrictive media policies. This study advances the understanding of minority broadcasting and the European Union (EU) media policies, but also highlights conflicting understandings of freedom of expression and media pluralism between Turkey and Europe.
A novel mutation in the succinate dehydrogenase subunit D gene in siblings with the hereditary paraganglioma–pheochromocytoma syndrome
Authors: Prasad Chaithra , Oakley Gerard J , Yip Linwah , Coyne Christopher , Rangaswamy Balasubramanya , Dixit Sanjay B
Published: October 2014

Germline mutations in the succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit D gene are now known to be associated with hereditary paraganglioma–pheochromocytoma syndromes. Since the initial succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit D gene mutation was identified about a decade ago, more than 131 unique variants have been reported. We report the case of two siblings presenting with multiple paragangliomas and pheochromocytomas; they were both found to carry a mutation in the succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit D gene involving a substitution of thymine to guanine at nucleotide 236 in exon 3. This particular mutation of the succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit D gene has only been reported in one previous patient in Japan; this is, therefore, the first report of this pathogenic mutation in siblings and the first report of this mutation in North America. With continued screening of more individuals, we will be able to create a robust mutation database that can help us understand disease patterns associated with particular variants and may be a starting point in the development of new therapies for familial paraganglioma syndromes.
Effect of correction of hindfoot valgus deformity on ankle joint pain relief in rheumatoid arthritis cases: A report of two cases
Authors: Hirao Makoto , Tsuboi Hideki , Akita Shosuke , Matsushita Masato , Ohshima Shiro , Saeki Yukihiko , Hashimoto Jun
Published: October 2014

We often see painful ankle joint destruction with painful hindfoot valgus deformity in rheumatoid arthritis. Our policy in such cases has been to first correct the hindfoot deformity in the subtalar joint with fusion, but then ankle joint pain has been observed. Two women with rheumatoid arthritis underwent correction and fusion surgery for hindfoot valgus deformity. They had been using wheelchairs because of severe pain in the ankle joint and hindfoot despite extensive medical treatment. After surgery, both patients complained of no pain in the hindfoot. Furthermore, dramatic pain reduction in the ankle joint was also observed especially in a case without ankle joint instability. Consequently, the patients could walk without any support. Correction of valgus hindfoot deformity contributes to centralizing the weight-bearing line in the ankle joint, leading to ankle joint pain relief. It appears possible to preserve the ankle joint without additional ankle surgery even in rheumatoid arthritis cases, if ankle is stable.
Particularities in a Child With Cashew Nut Allergy
Authors: Soares Joana , Dias Ana , Peixoto Sara , Pereira António , Quaresma Márcia
Published: October 2014

Food allergy affects many young children and tree nut allergy is accountable for a large number of severe, life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. Cross-reactivity can occur not only with foods that are in the same biological family but also between certain fruits or vegetables and latex (latex–fruit syndrome). We present the case of a previous healthy 5-year-old girl referred to Pediatric/Allergology Consultation after an episode of sialorrhea, perioral urticarial rash, tongue swelling, and immediate vomiting after oral contact with cashew nut. Investigation revealed the following: positive skin prick test to walnut and positive specific IgE for cashew nut, walnut, hazelnut, and almond. ImmunoCAP ISAC was positive for storage proteins of walnut and hazelnut (Jug r 1 e Cor a 9) and for a specific allergen of latex (Hev b 3). It is interesting that anaphylaxis was the first manifestation of allergy in a healthy child. Also, we emphasize the importance to latex sensitization with potential future clinical relevance and the sensitization to Hev b 3, which is not documented to be involved in cross-reactivity phenomena/latex–fruit syndrome or present in an otherwise healthy child.
The TAK1-NF-κB axis as therapeutic target for AML
Authors: Bosman Matthieu Cornelis Johannes , Schepers Hein , Jaques Jennifer , Brouwers-Vos Annet Zwaantien , Quax Wim Johannes , Schuringa Jan Jacob , Vellenga Edo
Published: October 2014

Key Points

The threonine kinase TAK1 is a survival-related gene that is strongly upregulated in AML CD34+ cells vs NBM CD34+ cells. Genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of TAK1-induced cell death in an NF-κB–dependent manner in AML cells in vitro and in vivo.
The role of the thymus in T-cell immune reconstitution after umbilical cord blood transplantation
Authors: Politikos Ioannis , Boussiotis Vassiliki A.
Published: October 2014

Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is an alternative source of hematopoietic stem cells for patients without HLA-matched adult donors. UCB contains a low number of nucleated cells and mostly naive T cells, resulting in prolonged time to engraftment and lack of transferred T-cell memory. Although the first phase of T-cell reconstitution after UCB transplantation (UCBT) depends on peripheral expansion of transferred T cells, permanent T-cell reconstitution is mediated via a central mechanism, which depends on de novo production of naive T lymphocytes by the recipient’s thymus from donor-derived lymphoid-myeloid progenitors (LMPs). Thymopoiesis can be assessed by quantification of recent thymic emigrants, T-cell receptor excision circle levels, and T-cell receptor repertoire diversity. These assays are valuable tools for monitoring posttransplantation thymic recovery, but more importantly they have shown the significant prognostic value of thymic reconstitution for clinical outcomes after UCBT, including opportunistic infections, disease relapse, and overall survival. Strategies to improve thymic entry and differentiation of LMPs and to accelerate recovery of the thymic stromal microenvironment may improve thymic lymphopoiesis. Here, we discuss the mechanisms and clinical implications of thymic recovery and new approaches to improve reconstitution of the T-cell repertoire after UCBT.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Molecular insights into the anti-cancer properties of Traditional Tibetan medicine Yukyung Karne
Authors: Choedon Tenzin , Dolma Dawa , Mathan Ganeshan , Kumar Vijay
Published: October 2014

Background

Yukyung karne (YK) is a traditional Tibetan formulation used for many centuries for the treatment of ovarian cancer. However, the pharmacological basis of its anticancer property is not well understood. In the present study, the anticancer property of YK was investigated in cell culture.

Methods

The growth inhibitory property of YK was evaluated in SKOV6, IHH, HepG2 and HEK293 cell lines using MTT assay. The pro-apoptotic activity of drug was analyzed by terminal deoxynuleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and DNA fragmentation assays. Confocal microscopy was used to show the release of cytochrome c and its co-localization with mitochondria with the help of dsRed mitotracker in SKOV6 cells. The inhibition in cell proliferation was also visualized by confocal microscopy after BrDU incorporation. The activation of tumor suppressor p53 was evaluated by Western blotting while VEGF levels in culture supernatant were measured by a colorimetric method.

Results

YK specifically and efficiently induced apoptotic killing of the human ovarian cancer SKOV6 cells as indicated by increased DNA fragmentation and nick end DNA labeling. Confocal microscopy suggested inhibition of cell proliferation and increase in cytochrome c release via perturbation in mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm). Further, YK up-regulated the expression of tumor suppressor p53 and key cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21, and inhibited VEGF secretion by cells. Interestingly, YK also exhibited a synergy with paclitaxel which is a well-known anti-cancer therapeutic drug.

Conclusions

The pharmacological properties of YK to impose growth arrest and trigger pro-apoptotic death in cells amply justify its usage in primary as well as adjunct therapy for ovarian cancer.
Are migrants discriminated against in Chinese urban labour markets?
Authors: Gagnon Jason , Xenogiani Theodora , Xing Chunbing
Published: October 2014

We use a nationally representative survey to investigate the incidence of discrimination against internal migrant workers in urban China, considering both migrants from rural areas (rural migrants) and those from other urban areas (urban migrants). We find that both rural and urban migrants are discriminated out of jobs with formal labour contracts. Results also suggest that urban migrants are compensated for working in the informal sector by earning higher wages. There is evidence however of wage discrimination against rural hukou status. A semi-parametric method suggests a larger discrimination against migrants in the upper half of the wage distribution. Discrimination against migrants seems not to decrease as their duration of stay in the urban labour market increases.

JEL codes

J7; J51; O15; N35
MUSIC: identification of enriched regions in ChIP-Seq experiments using a mappability-corrected multiscale signal processing framework
Authors: Harmanci Arif , Rozowsky Joel , Gerstein Mark
Published: October 2014

We present MUSIC, a signal processing approach for identification of enriched regions in ChIP-Seq data, available at http://www.music.gersteinlab.org. MUSIC first filters the ChIP-Seq read-depth signal for systematic noise from non-uniform mappability, which fragments enriched regions. Then it performs a multiscale decomposition, using median filtering, identifying enriched regions at multiple length scales. This is useful given the wide range of scales probed in ChIP-Seq assays. MUSIC performs favorably in terms of accuracy and reproducibility compared with other methods. In particular, analysis of RNA polymerase II data reveals a clear distinction between the stalled and elongating forms of the polymerase.
Nanoscale investigation of surface potential distribution of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 thin films grown with additional NaF layers
Authors: Kim Gee Yeong , Kim Juran , Jo William , Son Dae-Ho , Kim Dae-Hwan , Kang Jin-Kyu
Published: October 2014

CZTS precursors [SLG/Mo (300 nm)/ZnS (460 nm)/SnS (480 nm)/Cu (240 nm)] were deposited by RF/DC sputtering, and then NaF layers (0, 15, and 30 nm) were grown by electron beam evaporation. The precursors were annealed in a furnace with Se metals at 590°C for 20 minutes. The final composition of the CZTSSe thin-films was of Cu/(Zn + Sn) ~ 0.88 and Zn/Sn ~ 1.05, with a metal S/Se ratio estimated at ~0.05. The CZTSSe thin-films have different NaF layer thicknesses in the range from 0 to 30 nm, achieving a ~3% conversion efficiency, and the CZTSSe thin-films contain ~3% of Na. Kelvin probe force microscopy was used to identify the local potential difference that varied according to the thickness of the NaF layer on the CZTSSe thin-films. The potential values at the grain boundaries were observed to increase as the NaF thickness increased. Moreover, the ratio of the positively charged GBs in the CZTSSe thin-films with an NaF layer was higher than that of pure CZTSSe thin-films. A positively charged potential was observed around the grain boundaries of the CZTSSe thin-films, which is a beneficial characteristic that can improve the performance of a device.
Horizon-based semiautomated nonhyperbolic velocity analysis
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zhao Tao , Qi Jie , Marfurt Kurt J.
Published: October 2014

With higher capacity recording systems, long-offset surveys are becoming common in seismic exploration plays. Long offsets provide leverage against multiples, have greater sensitivity to anisotropy, and are key to accurate inversion for shear impedance and density. There are two main issues associated with preserving the data fidelity contained in the large offsets: (1) nonhyperbolic velocity analysis and (2) mitigating the migration/NMO stretch. Current nonhyperbolic velocity analysis workflows first estimate moveout velocity [Formula: see text] based on the offset-limited gathers, then pick an effective anellipticity [Formula: see text] using the full-offset gathers. Unfortunately, estimating [Formula: see text] at small aperture may be inaccurate, with picking errors in [Formula: see text] introducing errors in the subsequent analysis of effective anellipticity. We have developed an automated algorithm to simultaneously estimate the nonhyperbolic parameters. Instead of directly seeking an effective stacking model, the algorithm finds an interval model that gives the most powerful stack. The searching procedure for the best interval model was conducted using a direct, global optimization algorithm called differential evolutionary. Next, we applied an antistretch workflow to minimize stretch at a far offset after obtaining the optimal effective model. The automated velocity analysis and antistretch workflow were tested on the data volume acquired over the Fort Worth Basin, USA. The results provided noticeable improvement on the prestack gathers and on the stacked data volume.
Geographic Variation in Use of Laparoscopic Colectomy for Colon Cancer
Authors: Reames Bradley N. , Sheetz Kyle H. , Waits Seth A. , Dimick Justin B. , Regenbogen Scott E.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

Emerging evidence supporting the use of laparoscopic colectomy in patients with cancer has led to dramatic increases in utilization. Though certain patient and hospital characteristics may be associated with the use of laparoscopy, the influence of geography is poorly understood.

Methods

We used national Medicare claims data from 2009 and 2010 to examine geographic variation in utilization of laparoscopic colectomy for patients with colon cancer. Patients were assigned to hospital referral regions (HRRs) where they were treated. Multivariable logistic regression was used to generate age, sex, and race-adjusted rates of laparoscopic colectomy for each HRR. Patient quintiles of adjusted HRR utilization were used to evaluate differences in patient and hospital characteristics across low and high-utilizing HRRs.

Results

A total of 93,786 patients underwent colon resections at 3,476 hospitals during the study period, of which 30,502 (32.5%) were performed laparoscopically. Differences in patient characteristics between the lowest and highest quintiles of HRR utilization were negligible, and there was no difference in the availability of laparoscopic technology. Yet adjusted rates of laparoscopic colectomy utilization varied from 0% to 66.8% across 306 HRRs in the United States.

Conclusion

There is wide geographic variation in the utilization of laparoscopic colectomy for Medicare patients with colon cancer, suggesting treatment location may substantially influence a patient's options for surgical approach. Future efforts to reduce variation will require increased dissemination of training techniques, novel opportunities for learning among surgeons, and enhanced educational resources for patients.
Combined BRAF (Dabrafenib) and MEK Inhibition (Trametinib) in Patients With BRAFV600-Mutant Melanoma Experiencing Progression With Single-Agent BRAF Inhibitor
Authors: Johnson Douglas B. , Flaherty Keith T. , Weber Jeffrey S. , Infante Jeffrey R. , Kim Kevin B. , Kefford Richard F. , Hamid Omid , Schuchter Lynn , Cebon Jonathan , Sharfman William H. , McWilliams Robert R. , Sznol Mario , Lawrence Donald P. , Gibney Geoffrey T. , Burris Howard A. , Falchook Gerald S. , Algazi Alain , Lewis Karl , Long Georgina V. , Patel Kiran , Ibrahim Nageatte , Sun Peng , Little Shonda , Cunningham Elizabeth , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Daud Adil , Gonzalez Rene
Published: October 2014

Purpose

Preclinical and early clinical studies have demonstrated that initial therapy with combined BRAF and MEK inhibition is more effective in BRAFV600-mutant melanoma than single-agent BRAF inhibitors. This study assessed the safety and efficacy of dabrafenib and trametinib in patients who had received prior BRAF inhibitor treatment.

Patients and Methods

In this open-label phase I/II study, we evaluated the pharmacology, safety, and efficacy of dabrafenib and trametinib. Here, we report patients treated with combination therapy after disease progression with BRAF inhibitor treatment administered before study enrollment (part B; n = 26) or after cross-over at progression with dabrafenib monotherapy (part C; n = 45).

Results

In parts B and C, confirmed objective response rates (ORR) were 15% (95% CI, 4% to 35%) and 13% (95% CI, 5% to 27%), respectively; an additional 50% and 44% experienced stable disease ≥ 8 weeks, respectively. In part C, median progression-free survival (PFS) was 3.6 months (95% CI, 2 to 4), and median overall survival was 11.8 months (95% CI, 8 to 25) from cross-over. Patients who previously received dabrafenib ≥ 6 months had superior outcomes with the combination compared with those treated < 6 months; median PFS was 3.9 (95% CI, 3 to 7) versus 1.8 months (95% CI, 2 to 4; hazard ratio, 0.49; P = .02), and ORR was 26% (95% CI, 10% to 48%) versus 0% (95% CI, 0% to 15%).

Conclusion

Dabrafenib plus trametinib has modest clinical efficacy in patients with BRAF inhibitor–resistant melanoma. This regimen may be a therapeutic strategy for patients who previously benefited from BRAF inhibitor monotherapy ≥ 6 months but demonstrates minimal efficacy after rapid progression with BRAF inhibitor therapy.
The T-box gene family: emerging roles in development, stem cells and cancer
Authors: Papaioannou Virginia E.
Published: October 2014

The T-box family of transcription factors exhibits widespread involvement throughout development in all metazoans. T-box proteins are characterized by a DNA-binding motif known as the T-domain that binds DNA in a sequence-specific manner. In humans, mutations in many of the genes within the T-box family result in developmental syndromes, and there is increasing evidence to support a role for these factors in certain cancers. In addition, although early studies focused on the role of T-box factors in early embryogenesis, recent studies in mice have uncovered additional roles in unsuspected places, for example in adult stem cell populations. Here, I provide an overview of the key features of T-box transcription factors and highlight their roles and mechanisms of action during various stages of development and in stem/progenitor cell populations.
ATMIN is a transcriptional regulator of both lung morphogenesis and ciliogenesis
Authors: Goggolidou Paraskevi , L. Stevens Jonathan , Agueci Francesco , Keynton Jennifer , Wheway Gabrielle , Grimes Daniel T. , Patel Saloni H. , Hilton Helen , Morthorst Stine K. , DiPaolo Antonella , Williams Debbie J. , Sanderson Jeremy , Khoronenkova Svetlana V. , Powles-Glover Nicola , Ermakov Alexander , Esapa Chris T. , Romero Rosario , Dianov Grigory L. , Briscoe James , Johnson Colin A. , Pedersen Lotte B. , Norris Dominic P.
Published: October 2014

Initially identified in DNA damage repair, ATM-interactor (ATMIN) further functions as a transcriptional regulator of lung morphogenesis. Here we analyse three mouse mutants, Atmingpg6/gpg6, AtminH210Q/H210Q and Dynll1GT/GT, revealing how ATMIN and its transcriptional target dynein light chain LC8-type 1 (DYNLL1) are required for normal lung morphogenesis and ciliogenesis. Expression screening of ciliogenic genes confirmed Dynll1 to be controlled by ATMIN and further revealed moderately altered expression of known intraflagellar transport (IFT) protein-encoding loci in Atmin mutant embryos. Significantly, Dynll1GT/GT embryonic cilia exhibited shortening and bulging, highly similar to the characterised retrograde IFT phenotype of Dync2h1. Depletion of ATMIN or DYNLL1 in cultured cells recapitulated the in vivo ciliogenesis phenotypes and expression of DYNLL1 or the related DYNLL2 rescued the effects of loss of ATMIN, demonstrating that ATMIN primarily promotes ciliogenesis by regulating Dynll1 expression. Furthermore, DYNLL1 as well as DYNLL2 localised to cilia in puncta, consistent with IFT particles, and physically interacted with WDR34, a mammalian homologue of the Chlamydomonas cytoplasmic dynein 2 intermediate chain that also localised to the cilium. This study extends the established Atmin-Dynll1 relationship into a developmental and a ciliary context, uncovering a novel series of interactions between DYNLL1, WDR34 and ATMIN. This identifies potential novel components of cytoplasmic dynein 2 and furthermore provides fresh insights into the molecular pathogenesis of human skeletal ciliopathies.
BMP-mediated induction of GATA4/5/6 blocks somitic responsiveness to SHH
Authors: Daoud Georges , Kempf Hervé , Kumar Deepak , Kozhemyakina Elena , Holowacz Tamara , Kim Dae-Won , Ionescu Andreia , Lassar Andrew B.
Published: October 2014

The relative timing of SHH and BMP signals controls whether presomitic mesoderm (PSM) cells will adopt either a chondrogenic or lateral plate mesoderm fate. Here we document that SHH-mediated induction of Nkx3.2 maintains the competence of somitic cells to initiate chondrogenesis in response to subsequent BMP signals by repressing BMP-dependent induction of GATA genes. Conversely, administration of BMP signals to PSM or forced expression of GATA family members in chick PSM explants blocks induction of hedgehog-dependent gene expression. We demonstrate that GATA factors can interact with Gli factors and can recruit the transcriptional co-factor FOG1 (ZFPM1) to the regulatory region of the mouse Gli1 gene, repressing the induction of Gli1 by SHH by binding to both GATA and Gli binding sites. Knockdown of FOG1 reverses the ability of GATA factors to repress Gli1 expression. Our findings uncover a novel role for GATA transcription factors as repressors of hedgehog signaling, and document that NKX3.2 maintains the ability of sclerotomal cells to express SHH transcriptional targets in the presence of BMP signals by repressing the induction of Gata4/5/6.
One-pot Synthesis of Hollow Microspheres of Cerium Oxide and Their Application in Electrochemical Sensors
Authors: Zou Jing , Gong Wanyun , Zhang Sheng , Zhou Xin , Zhang Yuanxiao , Jiang Jizhou
Published: October 2014

Monodisperse hollow cerium oxide (CeO2) microspheres were successfully synthesized by a convenient one-pot preparative method. It was found that the morphology of the hollow CeO2 microspheres was sensing to reaction conditions. A possible mechanism for the formation of hollow CeO2 microspheres was discussed. Moreover, we investigated the electrochemical properties of the resultant hollow CeO2 microspheres by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). It was found that the electrochemical sensors based on hollow CeO2 microspheres exhibited high electrochemical response.
A Donor–Acceptor-type Host Material for Solution-processed Phosphorescent Organic Light-emitting Devices Showing High Efficiency
Authors: Jun Chang-Hwa , Pu Yong-Jin , Igarashi Masahiro , Chiba Takayuki , Sasabe Hisahiro , Kido Junji
Published: October 2014

The solution-processable host material, 3,3′-[bis(9-phenylcarbazol-3-yl)]benzophenone (BCzBP), containing donor-type phenylcarbazole units and an acceptor-type benzophenone unit was synthesized. BCzBP showed a high excited triplet energy level and a high photoluminescence quantum efficiency with tris[2-(4-tolyl)pyridine]iridium ([Ir(mppy)3]) as a dopant, and a high glass-transition temperature. Solution-processed green phosphorescent OLEDs were fabricated with BCzBP. The device with BCzBP as a host showed comparable efficiencies to those of the corresponding device with 4,4′-bis(N-carbazolyl)biphenyl (CBP) as a host. At the same current density, the device with BCzBP showed a longer device lifetime than that with CBP, due to the high thermal stability and the bipolar nature of the host compound, BCzBP.
Preparation of Silica Particles Modified with Base-amplifying Groups and Their Application to Anionic UV Curing
Authors: Arimitsu Koji , Iijima Daiki , Furutani Masahiro , Yamada Yasuyuki , Wakiya Takeshi
Published: October 2014

We have prepared silica particles modified with base-amplifying groups and applied these particles to anionic UV curing materials to prepare organic–inorganic nanocomposites. We have succeeded in the preparation of a coating film containing 74 wt % of modified silica particles. Surprisingly, the film showed high mechanical strength and transparency.
Solution Chemical Synthesis of Hollow Vaterite Particles for Advanced Biomaterial Applications
Authors: Sugiura Yuki , Onuma Kazuo , Yamazaki Atsushi
Published: October 2014

In this work, we develop a new simple synthesis method of hollow polycrystalline monophase vaterite particles without impurities such as calcite and toxic buffer (tris(hydroxylmethyl)aminomethane: Tris). Starting materials consist of CaCl2, NaHCO3, NaCl, and a flavin mononucleotide, a vitamin B2 derivative. The resulting vaterite particles showed a spherical shell of 2–5 µm surrounding a 50–500 nm diameter cavity. The shells comprised 10–100 nm wide elongated fibrous crystals, which were tightly packed and radially elongated from the center of a vaterite sphere.
Charge–Discharge Property of Si and SiOx Nanoparticles Produced in Regulated Carbon Nanospace
Authors: Tabuchi Hikaru , Nakamura Tsuyoshi , Urita Koki , Moriguchi Isamu
Published: October 2014

Si and SiOx nanoparticle-embedded nanoporous carbons were successfully synthesized by reducing a SiO2 opal–carbon composite precursor with Mg, and their interstitial nanospace in carbon pores was tunable by partly etching the SiO2 particles in the precursor. It was revealed that dispersive loading of Si and SiOx nanoparticles in carbon nanospace is necessary to enhance the charge–discharge performance in addition to providing the interstitial nanospace as a buffer space for the volume change associated with Si–Li reactions.
Moral Hazard and Claims Deterrence in Private Disability Insurance
Authors: Autor David , Duggan Mark , Gruber Jonathan
Published: October 2014

Exploiting within-firm, over-time variation in plan parameters for nearly 10,000 Long Term Disability (LTD) policies held by US employers, we present the first empirical analysis of the determinants of private LTD spells. We find that a shorter waiting period and a higher replacement rate increase the incidence of LTD spells. Sixty percent of the latter effect is due to the mechanical censoring of shorter spells, with the remainder due to the deterrence of spells that would have continued beyond the waiting period. Deterrence is driven primarily by a reduction in the incidence of shorter duration spells and less severe disabilities. (JEL D82, G22, J28, J32)
Merit Aid, College Quality, and College Completion: Massachusetts' Adams Scholarship as an In-Kind Subsidy
Authors: Cohodes Sarah R. , Goodman Joshua S.
Published: October 2014

We analyze a Massachusetts merit aid program that gives high-scoring students tuition waivers at in-state public colleges with lower graduation rates than available alternative colleges. A regression discontinuity design comparing students just above and below the eligibility threshold finds that students are remarkably willing to forgo college quality and that scholarship use actually lowered college completion rates. These results suggest that college quality affects college completion rates. The theoretical prediction that in-kind subsidies of public institutions can reduce consumption of the subsidized good is shown to be empirically important. (JEL H75, I22, I23, I28)
Citizenship, Fertility, and Parental Investments
Authors: Avitabile Ciro , Clots-Figueras Irma , Masella Paolo
Published: October 2014

Citizenship rights are associated with better economic opportunities for immigrants. This paper studies how in a country with a large fraction of temporary migrants the fertility decisions of foreign citizens respond to a change in the rules that regulate child legal status at birth. The introduction of birthright citizenship in Germany in 2000, represented a positive shock to the returns to investment in child human capital. Consistent with Becker's “quality-quantity” model of fertility, we find that birthright citizenship leads to a reduction in immigrant fertility and an improvement in health and socio-emotional outcomes for the children affected by the reform. (JEL J13, J15, J16, J24)
Price, Quality, and Variety: Measuring the Gains from Trade in Differentiated Products
Authors: Sheu Gloria
Published: October 2014

This paper explores the gains from trade in differentiated products from three channels: decreases in price, improvements in quality, and increases in variety. Using data on Indian imports of computer printers from 1996 to 2005, a period of trade liberalization, I find that quality was the leading source of welfare gains. Consumers would require a 65 percent decrease in all 1996 prices to be as well off as they were with the quality available in 2005. The contribution of price was slightly smaller, while variety lagged farther behind. These effects varied across buyers, as gains were largest for small businesses. (JEL F13, F14, L11, L63, O19)
Selective degradation of serum proteins is likely responsible for the spurious differences in innate immunity proteins observed in a type 1 diabetes study
Authors: Zhi Wenbo , Purohit Sharad , Bai Shan , Sharma Ashok , She Jin-Xiong
Published: October 2014

Discovery and validation of serum protein biomarkers is of vital importance for the prediction, mechanism elucidation and monitoring response to therapy of type 1 diabetes mellitus. In this study, we attempted to replicate the results published in a 2013 issue of The Journal of Experimental Medicine by Qibin Zhang and colleagues described the discovery, verification and validation of several serum proteins/peptides that were drastically different between type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients and healthy controls, using label-free quantitative LC-MS-based proteomics and a multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (MRM-MS) based multiplexed peptide assays. We performed the same MRM-MS assay in a large sample panel of 145 T1D patients and 156 autoantibody negative (AbN) control subjects (PANDA sample set) collected in the same geographical area, during the same period of time and by the same investigators, as well as 144 serum samples from the original authors (DASP sample set).  Our measurement of 12 transitions/peptides in the DASP samples correlated very nicely with the authors’ published results, indicating that the techniques used in the two laboratories yield very similar results on the same sample sets. Yet, in our PANDA samples, five of the twelve peptides (LLDSLPSDTR, FQPTLLTLPR, TNLESILSYPK, LVLLNAIYLSAK and ITQVLHFTK) whose serum levels are significantly different in the DASP verification and/or blind sample sets are not significant (p>0.05). Only one peptide (TGAQELLR) showed marginal significance (p=0.03). Although the remaining 6 peptides (NIQSLEVIGK, TLEAQLTPR, ELDESLQVAER, AGALNSNDAFVLK, TFTLLDPK and DIPTNSPELEETLTHTITK) are significantly different between the T1D and control group in our PANDA sample set, the inter-group differences as measured by fold change (FC) are very small (FC = 1.0±0.1).  Therefore, our results do not support the major findings in the report.
Negotiating the radiologically isolated syndrome
Authors: Cummings A , Chataway J
Published: October 2014

Multiple sclerosis, always challenging, hands down a particular gauntlet with the concept of the radiologically isolated syndrome. This article discusses what it is, recent developments in the field and how these patients should be managed.
Persistent (unexplained) physical symptoms: evidence-based highlights
Authors: Deary Vincent , Metcalfe Louise , Wilson Janet A
Published: October 2014

Medically unexplained symptoms account for up to 50% of specialist referrals in the NHS, but because they tend to be seen in specialist clinics, health-care staff may not be aware of the variety of presentations and commonalties between different medically unexplained symptoms. This article gives an overview of this field.
Role of hyperbaric medicine for intractable leg ulcers: a case report
Authors: Skeik N. , Kia F , Klosterman D.
Published: October 2014

We present a case report of intractable multifactorial leg ulcer that was treated successfully with multiple approaches including hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) to prepare for skin grafting. A 66-year-old female with a history of rheumatoid arthritis and Felty's syndrome presented with a non-healing ulcer on her left leg that was caused by a trauma. She failed multiple treatment options including debridement, different wound dressings, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and vein closure procedure. She finally healed with skin graft following HBOT that prepared the wound bed before the procedure.
Glucose Control in the Intensive Care Unit by Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring: What Level of Measurement Error Is Acceptable?
Authors: Wilinska Malgorzata E , Hovorka Roman
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND

Accuracy and frequency of glucose measurement is essential to achieve safe and efficacious glucose control in the intensive care unit. Emerging continuous glucose monitors provide frequent measurements, trending information, and alarms. The objective of this study was to establish the level of accuracy of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) associated with safe and efficacious glucose control in the intensive care unit.

METHODS

We evaluated 3 established glucose control protocols [Yale, University of Washington, and Normoglycemia in Intensive Care Evaluation and Surviving Using Glucose Algorithm Regulation (NICE-SUGAR)] by use of computer simulations. Insulin delivery was informed by intermittent blood glucose (BG) measurements or CGM levels with an increasing level of measurement error. Measures of glucose control included mean glucose, glucose variability, proportion of time glucose was in target range, and hypoglycemia episodes.

RESULTS

Apart from the Washington protocol, CGM with mean absolute relative deviation (MARD) ≤15% resulted in similar mean glucose as with the use of intermittent BG measurements. Glucose variability was also similar between CGM and BG-informed protocols. Frequency and duration of hypoglycemia were not worse by use of CGM with MARD ≤10%. Measures of glucose control varied more between protocols than at different levels of the CGM error.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of CGM-informed and BG-informed commonly used glucose protocols is similar, but the risk of hypoglycemia may be reduced by use of CGM with MARD ≤10%. Protocol choice has greater influence on glucose control measures than the glucose measurement method.
La degradación de dunas litorales en Andalucía: aproximación geohistórica y multiescalar
Authors: Gómez-Zotano José
Published: October 2014

Desde mediados del siglo pasado, las costas de la comunidad autónoma de Andalucía han conocido un acelerado proceso de urbanización que, como factor social de primer orden, ha provocado ?y provoca en la actualidad? una degradación ambiental y paisajística generalizada, especialmente acusada en los ecosistemas dunares. Los sistemas playa-duna, frágiles y cambiantes por naturaleza, pese a constituir un patrimonio natural estratégico, de alto valor eco-cultural y socioeconómico, han sufrido un fuerte retroceso que no ha sido cuantificado ni georreferenciado. Con objeto de conocer la magnitud de dichos cambios, se presenta un análisis multiescalar y geohistórico fundamentado en la fotointerpretación y la cartografía: en primer lugar se identifican, a escala regional, los espacios dunares que han sufrido una regresión superficial, y se evidencia que Andalucía ha dilapidado 1/3 de los arenales costeros en seis décadas. En segundo lugar se analiza, a escala local, un caso de dunas amenazadas, paradigmático y extensible al resto del territorio.
Génesis de tormentas severas y su incidencia en la Región de Murcia
Authors: Espín Sánchez David , Romero Díaz Asunción
Published: October 2014

En el Sureste peninsular son constantes las situaciones de inestabilidad convectiva alimentadas en niveles altos atmosféricos por irrupciones de masas de aire ártica/polar. Bajo estas condiciones, debido al desplazamiento de los núcleos convectivos, las cuencas y valles fluviales intrabéticos son bastante proclives a los meteoros severos, tales como lluvias torrenciales, granizo o descargas eléctricas. Uno de los sistemas más perjudiciales, las supercélulas, suelen gestarse en los meses estivales o tardo-estivales, especialmente con la superficie terrestre muy calentada, acompañado además de altos índices de cizalla y helicidad. En este trabajo se analizan estos factores y las situaciones de inestabilidad convectiva más importantes registradas en la Región de Murcia (Sureste de España) en época reciente. La zona más afectada por las tormentas severas corresponde al norte de la Región, principalmente debido a vaguadas y vórtices fríos de origen ártico/polar marítimo de onda corta. Para ello se han utilizado: (i) los datos de estaciones meteorológicas en superficie y (ii) los sondeos aerológicos disponibles en el área, en particular los relativos a régimen de temperaturas, estratificación térmica vertical e indicadores de inestabilidad atmosférica. Se han obtenido correlaciones entre diferentes variables tormentosas, mostrando, por ejemplo, una buena relación la altitud con el número de días de tormenta, pero no así con las tormentas severas.
La planificación y gestión de los recursos hídricos en España: aproximación a los principales grupos y líneas de investigación
Authors: Morote Seguido Álvaro Francisco
Published: October 2014

La planificación y gestión de los recursos hídricos es una de las principales líneas de trabajo que diversos grupos de investigación españoles están analizando. La transcendencia social, territorial y económica del recurso agua avala el interés por esta temática. El objetivo de este artículo es examinar los grupos de investigación españoles que analizan esta temática desde una perspectiva territorial y sistematizar sus principales líneas de estudio. Ello permitirá poner de manifiesto que grupos de investigación tienen en el recurso agua una de sus principales líneas de investigación y conocer cuáles son las principales cuestiones que trabajan.
Factores de vulnerabilidad ante los incendios forestales en las provincias de Alicante y Valencia
Authors: Hernández Ramos William
Published: October 2014

Para poder realizar un acercamiento al perjuicio de los incendios forestales en la población se ha de establecer una visión lo más integradora geográficamente hablando. Existen numerosos estudios sobre la naturaleza ecológica de los incendios. La geografía física también ha ahondado en ello en temas relacionados con la climatología. Sin embargo, poco se ha mirado a la vulnerabilidad que generan estos siniestros en la población de dos de las provincias de España con más problemas cada año como son Valencia y Alicante. En el presente estudio se pretende sacar a la luz e interpretar con la mayor objetividad posible los datos de la Conselleria de Gobernació de la Comunidad Valenciana sobre el origen humano de los incendios forestales. Por otro lado, también se pretende realizar un exhaustivo análisis de algunos documentos legales a nivel estatal y autonómico que tienen que ver con los incendios. Por último, se hará una radiografía de los espacios de riesgo de incendio forestal en las provincias que han sido objeto de estudio.
Procesos demográficos y urbanos en la transformación espacial de la ciudad de Ávila
Authors: Martínez Fernández Luis Carlos , Molina de la Torre Ignacio , Delgado Urrecho José María
Published: October 2014

La ciudad de Ávila se configura, en la actualidad, como un compacto entramado urbano. Este ha conocido un crecimiento espacial sin precedentes a lo largo de los últimos sesenta años y, particularmente, durante la primera década de los años dos mil, fruto de una vinculación, que no siempre está correspondida, entre la evolución poblacional y el desarrollo residencial. Una ampliación del espacio construido -cuyo soporte estratégico se ha fundamentado, además, en la dialéctica establecida entre el centro y la periferia- dimensionado desorbitadamente por la conjunción de una serie de intereses urbanísticos completamente truncados por el estallido de la crisis. Esta manera de seguir construyendo la ciudad -recogida explícitamente por el planeamiento- parece ser más una utopía que una realidad, a tenor de las proyecciones de población realizadas que atisban un horizonte demográfico a corto y medio plazo nada halagüeño.
Actividades creativas y desarrollo en las pequeñas ciudades: Teruel como ejemplo
Authors: Escalona Orcao Ana Isabel , Sáez Pérez Luis Antonio , Frutos Mejías Luisa María , Loscertales Palomar Blanca
Published: October 2014

Una de las razones que explican la búsqueda de nuevas oportunidades de crecimiento en las pequeñas ciudades de las áreas menos avanzadas de Europa es la persistencia de fuertes desequilibrios territoriales. El aprovechamiento de su patrimonio cultural favorece el desarrollo de estrategias basadas en el talento local y adaptadas a la personalidad del territorio. El artículo se centra en la ciudad de Teruel y estudia cómo la tradición de los amantes y de las bodas de Isabel Segura, que se recrea anualmente desde 1997, ha contribuido a la generación de actividades creativas en la ciudad y su entorno próximo. El análisis realizado nos ha permitido conocer y evaluar los vínculos existentes entre sus componentes y las externalidades positivas e impactos socioeconómicos generados. El caso estudiado tiene un interés teórico añadido, porque permite reconstruir el desarrollo, estructura interna e impacto territorial de un potencial cluster creativo. El artículo presenta la zona de estudio, realiza la revisión de los conceptos de cluster y de actividades creativas y se centra después en la recreación de Las Bodas de Isabel de Segura considerando su génesis, evolución, estructura, sinergias funcionales e impacto territorial en la estructura productiva y en la sociedad local.
Clinical manifestations associated with novel mutations in the coiled-coil domain of STAT1
Authors: Nahum Amit , Dalal Ilan
Published: October 2014

Monoallelic mutations in STAT1 are associated with a variety of clinical patterns. We studied patients with novel mutations in the coiled-coil domain of STAT1. We found that clinical manifestations can vary from mild Candida infections limited to the oropharyx to serious serial strokes and skin cancer. Autoimmune manifestations were found to be rare and limited to hypothyroidism. Immune evaluations were normal or near normal in all patients with the exception of anergy to Candida. Mutation in the coiled-coil domain results in susceptibility to mucus membrane candidiasis as well as brain vascular anomalies.

Statement of novelty: We describe novel mutations in the coiled-coil domain of STAT1.
Bifurcation values and stability of algebras of bounded polynomials
Authors: Kurdyka Krzysztof , Michalska Maria , Spodzieja Stanisław
Published: October 2014

We show a tight relation between bifurcation values of a fixed polynomial f ∈ R[X; Y] and the family of polynomials bounded on a set { x ∈ R2 | f(x) ≤ c}. If g ∈ R[X; Y] is bounded on {x ∈ R2 | f(x) ≤ c}, then it is bounded on the bigger set {x ∈ R2 | f(x) ≤ c̃} with c < c̃ provided that the interval [c; c̃] does not contain any complex bifurcation value at infinity of f.