bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of vitamin C on hyperoxia-induced vasoconstriction in exercising skeletal muscle
Authors: Ranadive Sushant M. , Joyner Michael J. , Walker Branton G. , Taylor Jennifer L. , Casey Darren P.
Published: September 2014

Hyperoxia can cause substantial reductions in peripheral and coronary blood flow at rest and during exercise, which may be caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during hyperoxia. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of ROS in hyperoxia-induced reductions in skeletal muscle blood flow during forearm exercise. We hypothesized that infusion of vitamin C would abolish the effects of hyperoxia on the forearm blood flow (FBF) responses to exercise. Twelve young healthy adults performed rhythmic forearm handgrip exercise (10% of maximum voluntary contraction for 5 min) during normoxia and hyperoxia. For each condition, two trials were conducted with intra-arterial administration of saline or vitamin C. FBF was measured using Doppler ultrasound. During hyperoxia with saline, FBF and forearm vascular conductance (FVC) were 86.3 ± 5.1 and 86.8 ± 5.2%, respectively, of the normoxic values (100%) ( P < 0.05). During vitamin C, hyperoxic FBF and FVC responses were 90.9 ± 4.2 and 90.9 ± 4.1%, respectively, of the normoxic values ( P = 0.57 and 0.59). Subjects were then divided into three subgroups based on their percent decrease in FBF (>20, 10–20, and <10%) during hyperoxia. In the subgroup that demonstrated the greatest hyperoxia-induced changes (>20%), FBF and FVC during hyperoxia were 67.1 ± 4.0 and 66.8 ± 3.6%, respectively, of the normoxic values. Vitamin C abolished these effects on FBF and FVC with values that were 102.0 ± 5.2 and 100.8 ± 6.1%, respectively. However, vitamin C had no effect in the other two subgroups. This analysis is consistent with the idea that ROS generation blunts the FBF responses to exercise in the subjects most affected by hyperoxia.
Repair of Temporal Bone Encephalocele following Canal Wall Down Mastoidectomy
Authors: Blioskas Sarantis , Magras Ioannis , Polyzoidis Stavros , Kouskouras Konstantinos , Psillas Georgios , Dova Stamatia , Markou Konstantinos
Published: September 2014

We report a rare case of a temporal bone encephalocele after a canal wall down mastoidectomy performed to treat chronic otitis media with cholesteatoma. The patient was treated successfully via an intracranial approach. An enhanced layer-by-layer repair of the encephalocele and skull base deficit was achieved from intradurally to extradurally, using temporalis fascia, nasal septum cartilage, and artificial dural graft. After a 22-month follow-up period the patient remains symptom free and no recurrence is noted.
Hemin Attenuates Cisplatin-Induced Acute Renal Injury in Male Rats
Authors: Al-Kahtani Mohamed A. , Abdel-Moneim Ashraf M. , Elmenshawy Omar M. , El-Kersh Mohamed A.
Published: September 2014

Background.The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effects of hemin (the heme oxygenase-1 [OH-1] inducer) against nephrotoxic effects induced by cisplatin [cis-diamminedichloroplatinum II (CP)] in male rats.Methods.The evaluation was performed through monitoring renal redox parameters: lipid peroxidation (LPO), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), and reduced glutathione (GSH). The work also examined renal function tests (urea and creatinine), tissue proinflammatory mediator like nitric oxide (NO), and kidney cytopathology.Results.A single intraperitoneal dose of CP (10 mg/kg b.w.) caused significant elevation of blood urea, serum creatinine, and renal LPO and NO, along with significant decline of the activities of GPx and GR, but renal SOD activity and GSH level were statistically insignificant as compared to control group. Subcutaneous injection of hemin (40 µmol/kg b.w.) partially ameliorated CP-induced renal damage, based on suppression of blood urea, serum creatinine, the renal MDA and NO levels, and increased antioxidant capacity in CP-treated rats. The results of histopathological and ultrastructural investigations supported the renoprotective effect of hemin against CP-induced acute toxicity.Conclusion.The induction of HO-1 by hemin is a promising approach in the treatment of CP-induced nephrotoxicity. However, further preclinical studies are warranted to test effectiveness of CP/hemin on the outcome of tumor chemotherapy.
The Preliminary Study of Effects of Tolfenamic Acid on Cell Proliferation, Cell Apoptosis, and Intracellular Collagen Deposition in Keloid FibroblastsIn Vitro
Authors: Yi Dan , Bihl Ji , Newman Mackenzie S. , Chen Yanfang , Simman Richard
Published: September 2014

Keloid scarring is a fibroproliferative disorder due to the accumulation of collagen type I. Tolfenamic acid (TA), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, has been found to potentially affect the synthesis of collagen in rats. In this preliminary study, we aimed to test the effects of TA on cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, and the deposition of intracellular collagen in keloid fibroblasts. Normal fibroblasts (NFs) and keloid fibroblasts (KFs) were obtained from human dermis tissue. Within the dose range 10−3–10−6 M and exposure times 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h, we found that 0.55 × 10−3 M TA at 48 h exposure exhibited significantly decreased cell proliferation in both NFs and KFs. Under these experimental conditions, we demonstrated that (1) TA treatment induced a remarkable apoptotic rate in KFs compared to NFs; (2) TA treatment reduced collagen production in KFs versus NFs; (3) TA treatment decreased collagen type I expression in KFs comparing to that of NFs. In summary, our data suggest that TA decreases cell proliferation, induces cell apoptosis, and inhibits collagen accumulation in KFs.
Macadamia Oil Supplementation Attenuates Inflammation and Adipocyte Hypertrophy in Obese Mice
Authors: Lima Edson A. , Silveira Loreana S. , Masi Laureane N. , Crisma Amanda R. , Davanso Mariana R. , Souza Gabriel I. G. , Santamarina Aline B. , Moreira Renata G. , Roque Martins Amanda , Sousa Luis Gustavo O. de , Hirabara Sandro M. , Rosa Neto Jose C.
Published: September 2014

Excess of saturated fatty acids in the diet has been associated with obesity, leading to systemic disruption of insulin signaling, glucose intolerance, and inflammation. Macadamia oil administration has been shown to improve lipid profile in humans. We evaluated the effect of macadamia oil supplementation on insulin sensitivity, inflammation, lipid profile, and adipocyte size in high-fat diet (HF) induced obesity in mice. C57BL/6 male mice (8 weeks) were divided into four groups: (a) control diet (CD), (b) HF, (c) CD supplemented with macadamia oil by gavage at 2 g/Kg of body weight, three times per week, for 12 weeks (CD + MO), and (d) HF diet supplemented with macadamia oil (HF + MO). CD and HF mice were supplemented with water. HF mice showed hypercholesterolemia and decreased insulin sensitivity as also previously shown. HF induced inflammation in adipose tissue and peritoneal macrophages, as well as adipocyte hypertrophy. Macadamia oil supplementation attenuated hypertrophy of adipocytes and inflammation in the adipose tissue and macrophages.
The Expression of Four Genes as a Prognostic Classifier for Stage I Lung Adenocarcinoma in 12 Independent Cohorts
Authors: Okayama Hirokazu , Schetter Aaron J. , Ishigame Teruhide , Robles Ana I. , Kohno Takashi , Yokota Jun , Takenoshita Seiichi , Harris Curtis C.
Published: September 2014

Background: We previously developed a prognostic classifier using the expression levels of BRCA1, HIF1A, DLC1, and XPO1 that identified stage I lung adenocarcinoma patients with a high risk of relapse. That study evaluated patients in five independent cohorts from various regions of the world. In an attempt to further validate the classifier, we have used a meta-analysis–based approach to study 12 cohorts consisting of 1,069 tumor–node–metastasis stage I lung adenocarcinoma patients from every suitable, publically available dataset.

Methods: Cohorts were obtained through a systematic search of public gene expression datasets. These data were used to calculate the risk score using the previously published 4-gene risk model. A fixed effect meta-analysis model was used to generate a pooled estimate for all cohorts.

Results: The classifier was associated with prognosis in 10 of the 12 cohorts (P < 0.05). This association was highly consistent regardless of the ethnic diversity or microarray platform. The pooled estimate demonstrated that patients classified as high risk had worse overall survival for all stage I [HR, 2.66; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.93–3.67; P < 0.0001] patients and in stratified analyses of stage IA (HR, 2.69; 95% CI, 1.66–4.35; P < 0.0001) and stage IB (HR, 2.69; 95% CI, 1.74–4.16; P < 0.0001) patients.

Conclusions: The 4-gene classifier provides independent prognostic stratification of stage IA and stage IB patients beyond conventional clinical factors.

Impact: Our results suggest that the 4-gene classifier may assist clinicians in decisions about the postoperative management of early-stage lung adenocarcinoma patients. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(12); 2884–94. ©2014 AACR.
Systemic Treatment with Fumaric Acid Esters in Six Paediatric Patients with Psoriasis in a Psoriasis Centre
Authors: Steinz Kirsten , Gerdes Sascha , Domm Silja , Mrowietz Ulrich
Published: September 2014

Background: Psoriasis is one of the most common inflammatory skin disorders. There are only limited data on systemic treatment in children. Objective: To assess the safety and clinical efficacy of the treatment of six paediatric patients with fumaric acid esters (FAE, Fumaderm®) for psoriasis. Methods: Six patients aged 6-17 years were treated with FAE. Patients underwent regular assessment. Treatment efficacy was evaluated using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and body surface area (BSA). Results: The mean duration of treatment was 17.8 months. PASI and BSA were determined after 12 weeks. All patients showed improvement in their skin condition, two achieving PASI75, one PASI90 and three PASI100 response. Proteinuria was encountered in one patient and two patients suffered from gastrointestinal discomfort. Treatment was discontinued due to remission in two patients. Conclusion: Treatment with FAE in paediatric patients is a valuable alternative option when systemic treatment is needed.
Matched-Pair Analysis of Open versus Laparoscopic Nephroureterectomy for Upper Urinary Tract Urothelial Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Blackmur James P. , Stewart Grant D. , Egong Eric A. , Cutress Mark L. , Tolley David A. , Riddick Anthony C.P. , McNeill S. Alan
Published: September 2014

Objective: Laparoscopic nephroureterectomy (LNU) offers a superior morbidity profile compared with open nephroureterectomy (ONU) in treating upper urinary tract urothelial cell carcinoma. Evidence of oncological equivalence between LNU and ONU is limited. We compare operative and oncological outcomes for LNU and ONU using matched-pair analysis. Methods: Of 159 patients who underwent a nephroureterectomy at a single institution between April 1992 and April 2010, 13 pairs of ONU and LNU patients were matched for gender, age, tumour location, tumour grade and stage. Operative details, post-operative characteristics and recurrences were collated and survival rates analysed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: There was no significant difference in mean operation time between LNU (191 min) and ONU (194 min, p = 0.92). There was no significant difference in the 5-year survival rate between LNU and ONU (overall survival 59.1% vs. 73.5%, p = 0.18; progression-free survival 24.0% vs. 56.0%, p = 0.14; cancer-specific survival 60.9% vs. 73.5%, p = 0.56; bladder cancer recurrence-free survival 8.7% vs. 0.0%, p = 0.09). Conclusion: Amidst limited RCT and comparative studies, this study presents further evidence of oncological equivalence between LNU and ONU. There was a trend towards poorer outcomes following LNU though, which merits further study.
Acne Pathogenesis: History of Concepts
Authors: Tilles Gérard
Published: September 2014

From the first reliable descriptions of acne in the early 19th century, dermatologists recognized it as a disease of the pilosebaceous follicle. Until the middle of the 20th century, they hypothesized that seborrhoea, follicular keratosis and microorganisms could be individually responsible for the acne lesions. Inflammation was only regarded as the final and inescapable step of the acne process. Although the importance of these factors has been reevaluated, recent works still regarded them as mandatory. In the 1970s, the onset of isotretinoin dramatically improved acne management. It also provided great opportunities for a better understanding of the pathogenic factors of acne. This study analyzes their genesis and development from the seminal contributions until recent advances.
Neph1 Is Reduced in Primary Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis, Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome, and Corresponding Experimental Animal Models of Adriamycin-Induced Nephropathy and Puromycin Aminonucleoside Nephrosis
Authors: Hulkko Jenny , Patrakka Jaakko , Lal Mark , Tryggvason Karl , Hultenby Kjell , Wernerson Annika
Published: September 2014

Background/Aims: The transmembrane proteins Neph1 and nephrin form a complex in the slit diaphragm (SD) of podocytes. As recent studies indicate an involvement of this complex in the polymerization of the actin cytoskeleton and proteinuria, we wanted to study the subcellular localization of Neph1 in the normal human kidney and its expression in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS), and the corresponding experimental models of Adriamycin-induced nephropathy (ADR) and puromycin aminonucleoside nephrosis (PAN). All these disorders are characterized by substantial foot process effacement (FPE) and proteinuria. Materials and Methods: Kidney biopsies from patients with primary FSGS (perihilar type) and MCNS were compared to normal renal tissue. Mouse and rat kidney cortices from days 7 and 14 after Adriamycin injection and days 2 and 4 after puromycin aminonucleoside injection, respectively, were compared to control mouse and rat kidney. Polyclonal antibodies against Neph1 and nephrin were used for immunoelectron microscopy, and semiquantification was performed. Results: We localized Neph1 mainly to, and in close proximity to, the SD. Double staining of Neph1 and nephrin showed the proteins to be in close connection in the SD. The total amount of Neph1 in the podocytes was significantly reduced in FSGS, MCNS, ADR, and PAN. The reduction of Neph1 was also seen in areas with and without FPE. Nephrin was reduced in MCNS and PAN but unchanged in FSGS. Conclusion: With nephrin (but not Neph1) unchanged in FSGS, there might be a disruption of the complex and an involvement of Neph1 in its pathogenesis.
Decoding the Molecular Evolution of Human Cognition Using Comparative Genomics
Authors: Usui Noriyoshi , Co Marissa , Konopka Genevieve
Published: September 2014

Identification of genetic and molecular factors responsible for the specialized cognitive abilities of humans is expected to provide important insights into the mechanisms responsible for disorders of cognition such as autism, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. Here, we discuss the use of comparative genomics for identifying salient genes and gene networks that may underlie cognition. We focus on the comparison of human and non-human primate brain gene expression and the utility of building gene coexpression networks for prioritizing hundreds of genes that differ in expression among the species queried. We also discuss the importance of and methods for functional studies of the individual genes identified. Together, this integration of comparative genomics with cellular and animal models should provide improved systems for developing effective therapeutics for disorders of cognition.
BGMUT Database of Allelic Variants of Genes Encoding Human Blood Group Antigens
Authors: Patnaik Santosh Kumar , Helmberg Wolfgang , Blumenfeld Olga O.
Published: September 2014

The Blood group antigen Gene MUTation (BGMUT) database documents variations in genes of human blood group systems. In March 2014, the database, accessible at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gv/mhc/xslcgi.cgi?cmd=bgmut, listed 1,545 alleles of 44 genes of 34 blood group systems. Besides allelic information, the BGMUT resource also presents comprehensive and current information on blood group systems. This review describes the database and notes its utility for the transfusion medicine and human genetics communities.
Coronary Endothelial Dysfunction Is Associated With Inflammation and Vasa Vasorum Proliferation in Patients With Early Atherosclerosis
Authors: Choi Byoung-Joo , Matsuo Yoshiki , Aoki Tatsuo , Kwon Taek-Geun , Prasad Abhiram , Gulati Rajiv , Lennon Ryan J. , Lerman Lilach O. , Lerman Amir
Published: September 2014

Objective—

Endothelial dysfunction is an early manifestation of atherosclerosis. Inflammation and vasa vasorum play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of plaque initiation, development, and complications. Optical coherence tomography allows high-resolution imaging of tissue microstructure. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that segments with endothelial dysfunction show macrophages and vasa vasorum in patients with early coronary artery disease.

Approach and Results—

Optical coherence tomography images were obtained from 40 patients with mild coronary atherosclerosis who underwent coronary endothelial function assessment. Optical coherence tomography findings, including macrophages and microchannels, were evaluated in 76 coronary segments corresponding to those in endothelial response to acetylcholine. Coronary artery diameter change in response to acetylcholine was more severe in segments showing macrophages (−17.7±14.7% versus −6.3±13.9%;
P
<0.01) and microchannels (−15.9±15.9% versus −6.4±13.5%;
P
<0.01) than those without. There were increasing trends of the prevalence of macrophages and microchannels with endothelial dysfunction as stratified by quartiles of coronary artery diameter change (
P
<0.01 and
P
=0.02 for trend, respectively). In particular, segments with both macrophages and microchannels (n=12) tended to have worse endothelial function than those with macrophages alone (n=15) and microchannels alone (n=15; −22.1±14.6% versus −10.9±15.6% and −10.9±15.6%;
P
=0.07 and
P
=0.06, respectively).

Conclusions—

Epicardial endothelial dysfunction was associated with optical coherence tomography –identified macrophages and microchannels in mild coronary atherosclerosis. The current study further supports the role of inflammation and vasa vasorum proliferation in the early stage of coronary atherosclerosis.
Atrial Fibrillation Is an Independent Risk Factor for Ventricular Fibrillation
Authors: Bardai Abdennasser , Blom Marieke T. , van Hoeijen Daniel A. , van Deutekom Hanneke W.M. , Brouwer Henk J. , Tan Hanno L.
Published: September 2014

Background—

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with sudden cardiac death. We aimed to study whether AF is associated with ventricular fibrillation (VF), the most common cause of sudden cardiac death and whether this association is independent of confounders, ie, concomitant disease, use of antiarrhythmic or QT-prolonging drugs, and acute myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results—

We performed a community-based case-control study. Cases were patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest because of ECG-documented VF. Controls were age-/sex-matched non-VF subjects from the community. VF risk in AF patients was studied by means of (conditional) logistic regression, adjusting for all available confounders. We studied 1397 VF cases and 3474 controls. AF occurred in 215 cases (15.4%) and 90 controls (2.6%). AF was associated with a 3-fold increased risk of VF (adjusted odds ratio, 3.1 [2.1–4.5]). VF risk in AF cases was increased to the same extent across all age/sex groups and in AF cases who had no comorbidity (adjusted odds ratio 3.0 [1.6–5.5]) or used no confounding drugs (antiarrhythmics, 2.4 [1.4–4.3]; QT-prolonging drugs, 3.1 [1.8–5.4]). VF risk was similarly increased in AF cases with acute myocardial infarction–related VF (adjusted odds ratio 2.6 [1.4–4.8]), and those with non-acute myocardial infarction–related VF (adjusted odds ratio 4.3 [1.9–10.1]).

Conclusions—

AF is independently associated with a 3-fold increased risk of VF. Comorbidity, use of antiarrhythmic or QT-prolonging drugs, or acute myocardial infarction does not fully account for this increased risk.
There Are Plenty of Atheists in Foxholes—in Sweden
Authors: Granqvist Pehr , Moström Jakob
Published: September 2014

We evaluated the veracity of a famous aphorism that is often cited in the scientific study of religion: “There are no atheists in foxholes.” To provide a critical evaluation, the sample was drawn from one of the world's most secular spots, Sweden. We explored the prevalence of various religious beliefs/non-beliefs and prayer in a sample of parents ( n = 57) living with a major threat: having a child with a life-threatening heart condition. For comparison purposes, the prevalence of such beliefs and prayer were explored also in a sample ( n = 72) of parents with healthy children. Results showed that a majority of parents endorsed atheist or agnostic beliefs, whereas only a minority endorsed religious beliefs. Roughly half of the sample engaged in prayer. The group of parents with sick children was statistically indistinguishable from the comparison group parents on all variables. Also, between-group differences were generally negligible in terms of effect size; thus, the null results were not due to statistical power problems. We conclude that there may be plenty of atheists in some foxholes.
Understanding ENSO Diversity
Authors: Capotondi Antonietta , Wittenberg Andrew T. , Newman Matthew , Di Lorenzo Emanuele , Yu Jin-Yi , Braconnot Pascale , Cole Julia , Dewitte Boris , Giese Benjamin , Guilyardi Eric , Jin Fei-Fei , Karnauskas Kristopher , Kirtman Benjamin , Lee Tong , Schneider Niklas , Xue Yan , Yeh Sang-Wook
Published: September 2014

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a naturally occurring mode of tropical Pacific variability, with global impacts on society and natural ecosystems. While it has long been known that El Niño events display a diverse range of amplitudes, triggers, spatial patterns, and life cycles, the realization that ENSO’s impacts can be highly sensitive to this event-to-event diversity is driving a renewed interest in the subject. This paper surveys our current state of knowledge of ENSO diversity, identifies key gaps in understanding, and outlines some promising future research directions.
Water Vapor Transport and Moisture Budget over Eastern China: Remote Forcing from the Two Types of El Niño
Authors: Li Xiuzhen , Zhou Wen , Chen Deliang , Li Chongyin , Song Jie
Published: September 2014

The water vapor transport and moisture budget over eastern China remotely forced by the cold-tongue (CT) and warm-pool (WP) El Niño show striking differences throughout their lifetime. The water vapor transport response is weak in the developing summer but strong in the remaining phases of CT El Niño, whereas the opposite occurs during WP El Niño. WP El Niño causes a moisture deficit over the Yangtze River valley (YZ) in the developing summer and over southeastern China (SE) in the developing fall, whereas CT El Niño induces a moisture surplus first over SE during the developing fall with the influential area expanding in the decaying spring and shifting northward in the decaying summer. It is the divergence of meridional water vapor transport that dominates the total water vapor divergence anomaly, with the divergence of zonal transport showing an opposite pattern with smaller magnitude.

Investigation of the vertical profile of moisture budget shows a great baroclinicity, with the strongest abnormal moisture budget occurring in different levels. The moisture transport via the southern boundary plays a crucial role in the regional moisture budget anomalies and is located near the surface over SE, in the lower troposphere over the YZ, and at the lower-middle troposphere over the eastern part of northern China. The enhanced moisture surplus near the surface forced by WP El Niño over SE in the mature winter and decaying spring is offset by a moisture deficit within the lower-middle troposphere due to a diverse response circulation at different vertical levels.
Classroom culture promotes academic resiliency
Authors: DiTullio Gina
Published: September 2014

Resiliency is what propels many students to continue moving forward under difficult learning and life conditions. We intuitively think that such resilience is a character quality that cannot be taught. On the contrary, when a teacher sets the right conditions and culture for it in the classroom by teaching collaboration and communication skills, and then adds the right amount of challenge for students, it can help develop resiliency in students.
Americans put teacher quality on center stage
Authors: Bushaw William J. , Calderon Valerie J.
Published: September 2014

In this, the second installment of a two-part report of the 46th annual PDK/Gallup Poll of the Public's Attitudes Toward the Public Schools, the report unveils what Americans are thinking about public schools — in particular their views of teachers and the classrooms where they work. Some findings were surprising, others were not. For example, for the first time in five years Americans’ trust and confidence in teachers declined; six of 10 Americans said entrance requirements into teacher preparation programs should be more rigorous; most Americans (61%) oppose using student standardized test scores to evaluate teachers; a majority of Americans (58%) said the curriculum used in their community’s schools needs to change; more Americans agree than disagree that students should have shorter summer breaks and longer breaks at other times of year — akin to a year-round school scenario; fewer Americans said a college education is very important.
The phantom collapse of student achievement in New York
Authors: Cronin John , Jensen Nate
Published: September 2014

When New York state released the first results of the exams under the Common Core State Standards, many wrongly believed that the results showed dramatic declines in student achievement. A closer look at the results showed that student achievement may have increased. Another lesson from the exams is that states need to closely coordinate new data with existing data when they switch to different measuring instruments.
BACKTALK
Authors: Porosoff Lauren
Published: September 2014

There is both too little and too much diversity-focused professional development. Too much of it is cursory, repetitive, and unhelpful. Not enough of it comes with clear, usable objectives that result in positive changes.
Measuring Emotions in Real Time
Authors: Kim Jeongmi (Jamie) , Fesenmaier Daniel R.
Published: September 2014

This study introduces a new approach for assessing traveler’s emotions in natural settings and discusses the implications of this approach within the context of designing tourism places; in particular, the electrodermal activity (EDA) of two travelers during a four-day visit to Philadelphia (USA) were used, where they were exposed to a range of experiences while collecting EDA data on a second-by-second basis. The data were then combined with post hoc interviews, including time, locations, activities, and perceptions to aid interpretation. The results indicate that the visitors exhibited substantial variation in emotions depending on the places visited, their activities, and the people they met. It is concluded that the ability to measure travelers’ emotions in real time and in natural settings leads to new knowledge about the relationship between travelers’ emotions and the physical and social environments, which, in turn, provides a useful foundation for designing and managing tourism experiences
Predicting methylphenidate response in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A preliminary study
Authors: Johnston Blair A , Coghill David , Matthews Keith , Steele J Douglas
Published: September 2014

Methylphenidate (MPH) is established as the main pharmacological treatment for patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Whilst MPH is generally a highly effective treatment, not all patients respond, and some experience adverse reactions. Currently, there is no reliable method to predict how patients will respond, other than by exposure to a trial of medication. In this preliminary study, we sought to investigate whether an accurate predictor of clinical response to methylphenidate could be developed for individual patients, using sociodemographic, clinical and neuropsychological measures. Of the 43 boys with ADHD included in this proof-of-concept study, 30 were classed as responders and 13 as non-responders to MPH, with no significant differences in age nor verbal intelligence quotient (IQ) between the groups. Here we report the application of a multivariate analysis approach to the prediction of clinical response to MPH, which achieved an accuracy of 77% ( p = 0.005). The most important variables to the classifier were performance on a ‘go/no go’ task and comorbid conduct disorder. This preliminary study suggested that further investigation is merited. Achieving a highly significant accuracy of 77% for the prediction of MPH response is an encouraging step towards finding a reliable and clinically useful method that could minimise the number of children needlessly being exposed to MPH.
Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging reveals distinct brain activity in heavy cannabis users – a multi-voxel pattern analysis
Authors: Cheng H , Skosnik PD , Pruce BJ , Brumbaugh MS , Vollmer JM , Fridberg DJ , O’Donnell BF , Hetrick WP , Newman SD
Published: September 2014

Chronic cannabis use can cause cognitive, perceptual and personality alterations, which are believed to be associated with regional brain changes and possible changes in connectivity between functional regions. This study aims to identify the changes from resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans. A two-level multi-voxel pattern analysis was proposed to classify male cannabis users from normal controls. The first level analysis works on a voxel basis and identifies clusters for the input of a second level analysis, which works on the functional connectivity between these regions. We found distinct clusters for male cannabis users in the middle frontal gyrus, precentral gyrus, superior frontal gyrus, posterior cingulate cortex, cerebellum and some other regions. Based on the functional connectivity of these clusters, a high overall accuracy rate of 84–88% in classification accuracy was achieved. High correlations were also found between the overall classification accuracy and Barrett Barrett Impulsiveness Scale factor scores of attention and motor. Our result suggests regional differences in the brains of male cannabis users that span from the cerebellum to the prefrontal cortex, which are associated with differences in functional connectivity.
The effects of absolute pitch ability and musical training on lexical tone perception
Authors: Burnham Denis , Brooker Ron , Reid Amanda
Published: September 2014

The relationship between processing of speech and music was explored here via the linguistic vehicle of lexical tone. People with amusia have been found to be impaired on linguistic tasks; we examined whether absolute pitch (AP) possessors have an advantage on linguistic tasks. Participants were 3 groups of monolingual Australian-English speakers: non-AP musicians (musically-trained individuals who did not possess AP), AP musicians (musically-trained individuals who were AP possessors), and non-musicians (no musical training). Perceptual discrimination was tested in an AX same–different task for lexical tones presented in three contexts: normal Thai speech, low-pass filtered speech tones, and violin, with processing level manipulated via variation of the interstimulus interval (ISI). Non-musicians showed attenuated pitch discrimination of tones in speech, suggesting speech specialisation. On the other hand, all musicians showed greater accuracy, faster reaction times and less variation in accuracy across stimulus types than non-musicians. Importantly, AP musicians showed greater accuracy than non-AP musicians in the speech context, implying a domain-general advantage due to AP. However, speech-violin accuracy correlations for AP musicians were almost zero at the longer ISI, suggesting less commonality of mechanisms during more extensive processing. Results are discussed in terms of the role of AP in tone language perception.
Cardiomyocyte-Specific BMAL1 Plays Critical Roles in Metabolism, Signaling, and Maintenance of Contractile Function of the Heart
Authors: Young Martin E. , Brewer Rachel A. , Peliciari-Garcia Rodrigo A. , Collins Helen E. , He Lan , Birky Tana L. , Peden Bradley W. , Thompson Emily G. , Ammons Billy-Joe , Bray Molly S. , Chatham John C. , Wende Adam R. , Yang Qinglin , Chow Chi-Wing , Martino Tami A. , Gamble Karen L.
Published: September 2014

Circadian clocks are cell autonomous, transcriptionally based, molecular mechanisms that confer the selective advantage of anticipation, enabling cells/organs to respond to environmental factors in a temporally appropriate manner. Critical to circadian clock function are 2 transcription factors, CLOCK and BMAL1. The purpose of the present study was to reveal novel physiologic functions of BMAL1 in the heart, as well as to determine the pathologic consequences of chronic disruption of this circadian clock component. To address this goal, we generated cardiomyocyte-specific Bmal1 knockout (CBK) mice. Following validation of the CBK model, combined microarray and in silico analyses were performed, identifying 19 putative direct BMAL1 target genes, which included a number of metabolic (e.g., β-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase 1 [Bdh1]) and signaling (e.g., the p85α regulatory subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase [Pik3r1]) genes. Results from subsequent validation studies were consistent with regulation of Bdh1 and Pik3r1 by BMAL1, with predicted impairments in ketone body metabolism and signaling observed in CBK hearts. Furthermore, CBK hearts exhibited depressed glucose utilization, as well as a differential response to a physiologic metabolic stress (i.e., fasting). Consistent with BMAL1 influencing critical functions in the heart, echocardiographic, gravimetric, histologic, and molecular analyses revealed age-onset development of dilated cardiomyopathy in CBK mice, which was associated with a severe reduction in life span. Collectively, our studies reveal that BMAL1 influences metabolism, signaling, and contractile function of the heart.
Depicting additive manufacturing from a global perspective; using Cloud manufacturing paradigm for integration and collaboration
Authors: Valilai Omid Fatahi , Houshmand Mahmoud
Published: September 2014

Globalization is one of the widely considered factors in today’s manufacturing industries. This paradigm may be adopted for new technologies such as additive manufacturing. Additive manufacturing has been identified as an innovative manufacturing technology in recent years. The characteristics of this manufacturing technology, especially its support for quick design to manufacturing, have dominated it as an efficient generation of manufacturing techniques for today’s global manufacturing paradigm. This article discusses the requirements and necessities of additive manufacturing with respect to a globalized perspective. Considering the two major requirements studied as integration of manufacturing operations and enabling collaboration in distributed manufacturing networks, this article proposes an idea as an enabler of additive manufacturing in the global paradigm. This idea proposes the application of Cloud manufacturing paradigm as one of the recent researches for global manufacturing environments. The capabilities of the Cloud manufacturing to fulfill the requirements and necessities of additive manufacturing in global paradigm are discussed and elaborated through a comprehensive case study. The case study uses the recent researches of the authors for an integrated and collaborative distributed Cloud manufacturing platform named XMLAYMOD platform. This article discusses the different aspects of the Cloud manufacturing–based solution for additive manufacturing systems.
Performance assessment of micro and nano solid lubricant suspensions in vegetable oils during machining
Authors: Padmini R , Krishna P Vamsi , Mohana Rao G Krishna
Published: September 2014

The application of conventional cutting fluids as lubricants during machining operations is not user-friendly and eco-friendly. Owing to this reason, new eco-friendly and user-friendly alternatives to these cutting fluids are being extensively researched. In this context, the present work focuses on preparation of vegetable oil–based micro and nano cutting fluids, followed by evaluation of their applicability in machining. The comparative performance of micro and nano cutting fluids is consolidated and presented in this work. Micro and nano solid lubricants, namely, boric acid (H3BO3) and molybdenum disulphide (MoS2), are mixed with coconut and sesame oils separately and sonicated thoroughly. The samples thus prepared are used in machining for the examination of cutting forces, cutting temperatures, tool wear, and surface roughness in order to assess machining performance of the cutting fluid at the specific cutting conditions. It is observed that performance of nanofluids is better than micro fluids in reducing cutting temperatures, cutting forces, tool flank wear, and surface roughness of the machined surface.
Gendered Experiences of Subsistence Harms
Authors: Sankey Diana
Published: September 2014

The article aims to contribute to feminist critiques of the treatment of gendered harm in international law, specifically in relation to socio-economic forms of violence. It focuses on deprivations of subsistence needs, in the form of forced displacement and attacks on homes, livelihoods and basic resources, as one particular type of gendered harm that has remained marginalized in international law. Whilst existing feminist research provides some significant insights into the gendered nature of socio-economic forms of violence, there has yet to be systematic analysis and conceptualizations of such harm. The article argues that the concept of subsistence harms, in foregrounding the interrelated physical, mental and social harms of deprivations of subsistence needs, provides a way both of contesting current concepts and framings of violence and of exploring gendered experiences of forced displacement and attacks on homes, livelihoods and basic resources. Whilst the concept only focuses on one particular type of harm, it could contribute to feminist discourse on gendered harm in providing a framework and language with which to analyse gendered experiences of these harms and therefore providing one way of taking the current debate forward.
Epidemiology and Imaging Appearance of the Normal Bi-/multipartite Hallux Sesamoid Bone
Authors: Favinger Jennifer L. , Porrino Jack Anthony , Richardson Michael L. , Mulcahy Hyojeong , Chew Felix S. , Brage Michael E.
Published: September 2014

Background:

Turf toe is a hyperextension injury of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint that can be difficult to diagnose on physical examination and imaging. Diastasis of the bi- or multipartite sesamoid of the hallux has been implicated as 1 potential radiographic finding of turf toe injury, and when present may require operative management. However, the normal interval for the bi-/multipartite sesamoid has not yet been established.

Methods:

A total of 671 foot radiograph series were reviewed in effort to quantify the dominant interval of the bi-/multipartite sesamoid bone with respect to potential influencing factors including right versus left foot, medial and/or lateral sesamoid involvement, patient age and gender, and weight versus non-weight-bearing radiograph technique.

Results:

The prevalence of a bi-/multipartite hallux sesamoid was 14.3% in our population. The dominant sesamoid interval ranged from 0-2 mm, with an average of 0.79 mm.

Conclusion:

We conclude that sesamoid diastasis should be considered, in the appropriate clinical setting, when the sesamoid interval is greater than 2 mm on a routine AP radiograph of the foot.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative study.
Adjuvant chemotherapy may contribute to an increased risk for metabolic syndrome in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Bicakli Derya Hopanci , Varol Umut , Degirmenci Mustafa , Tunali Didem , Cakar Burcu , Durusoy Raika , Karaca Burcak , Ali Sanli Ulus , Uslu Ruchan
Published: September 2014

Purpose

Cytotoxic treatment may cause weight gain and important alterations in the metabolic status of breast cancer (BC) patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in metabolic and anthropometric parameters of patients with BC who received adjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods

All consecutive women treated with adjuvant TAC (docetaxel 75 mg/m2, doxorubicine 50 mg/m2, cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2) chemotherapy for node-positive breast carcinoma at our Institution between 2008 and 2010 were included.

Results

Among 104 patients, 84 of them were stage II and 20 of them were stage III. When we compared the measurements between 1st and 6th adjuvant chemotherapy, we observed statistically significant increases in weight and serum triglyceride levels, and decreases in high density lipoprotein, apolipoprotein A-1, transferrin, albumin and prealbumin levels. An elevation of follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone together with the decrease of estradiol was detected. Waist-to-hip ratio has also increased significantly. In subgroup analyses, we observed dramatic changes in body mass index in pre-menopausal women whereas no significant change was seen in the post-menopausal group.

Conclusions

Adjuvant chemotherapy may contribute to an increased risk for metabolic syndrome in patients with BC and these changes are more profound in pre-menopausal patients.
‘Echo Chambers’
Authors: Grömping Max
Published: September 2014

Do social networking sites (SNS) such as Facebook enhance deliberation in a democratic public sphere, or do they act as echo chambers, in which like-minded individuals reinforce their previously held beliefs? This article descriptively assesses this puzzle within a case study of Facebook posts on the 2014 Thai general election. Two very different realities emerge from the content analysis of several partisan Facebook pages. The ‘echo chamber’ hypothesis is further supported through network visualization and analysis of the interaction patterns between users of these Facebook pages. While users in the ‘same side’ of the political divide frequently comment, share and like content posted by like-minded pages and individuals, interactions across the ideological divide are negligible. Selective exposure seems to be at work, leading to a situation in which partisan social media users hardly engage with discrepant information or views at all.
Q&A with Chay Florentino Hofileña
Authors: Olarte Avigail M.
Published: September 2014

Hofilena, Chay Florentino, Lorenzana, Jozon A., & Ladrido, Estelle Marie M. (2014). Tabloid Coverage of a National Election: News Frames and Frame Building. pp. 1–58, ISBN 978-971-861-063-3, Manila: Institute of Philippine Culture, School of Social Sciences, Ateneo de Manila University.
Party membership in Europe
Authors: Kölln Ann-Kristin
Published: September 2014

Research on party membership development commonly reports figures aggregated to the country level and/or using only a few time-points. While these choices may be appropriate for certain research questions, they nevertheless hide major differences between parties and conceal short-term fluctuations. Additionally, they are inappropriate for studying individual party trajectories. This is necessary, however, to better describe and ultimately explain the phenomenon of membership decline. The article analyses in total 1653 observations across 47 parties in six western European countries between 1960 and 2010 to test hypotheses pertaining to individual party membership development. Using multilevel modelling and time-series analyses, the results show what aggregated data with few time-points cannot: membership decline is by far not a universal phenomenon. Additionally, membership decline appears to be part of a party’s life-cycle. The more consolidated parties are, the fewer members they have. Few differences between party families are observable.
Differential and limited expression of mutant alleles in multiple myeloma
Authors: Rashid Naim U. , Sperling Adam S. , Bolli Niccolo , Wedge David C. , Van Loo Peter , Tai Yu-Tzu , Shammas Masood A. , Fulciniti Mariateresa , Samur Mehmet K. , Richardson Paul G. , Magrangeas Florence , Minvielle Stephane , Futreal P. Andrew , Anderson Kenneth C. , Avet-Loiseau Herve , Campbell Peter J. , Parmigiani Giovanni , Munshi Nikhil C.
Published: September 2014

Key Points

The majority of mutations are found in genes that have low or no detectable biological expression. Mutated genes often show differential allelic expression in multiple myeloma patient samples.
Nutritional assessment and therapy in COPD: a European Respiratory Society statement
Authors: Schols Annemie M. , Ferreira Ivone M. , Franssen Frits M. , Gosker Harry R. , Janssens Wim , Muscaritoli Maurizio , Pison Christophe , Rutten-van Mölken Maureen , Slinde Frode , Steiner Michael C. , Tkacova Ruzena , Singh Sally J.
Published: September 2014

Nutrition and metabolism have been the topic of extensive scientific research in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but clinical awareness of the impact dietary habits, nutritional status and nutritional interventions may have on COPD incidence, progression and outcome is limited. A multidisciplinary Task Force was created by the European Respiratory Society to deliver a summary of the evidence and description of current practice in nutritional assessment and therapy in COPD, and to provide directions for future research. Task Force members conducted focused reviews of the literature on relevant topics, advised by a methodologist. It is well established that nutritional status, and in particular abnormal body composition, is an important independent determinant of COPD outcome. The Task Force identified different metabolic phenotypes of COPD as a basis for nutritional risk profile assessment that is useful in clinical trial design and patient counselling. Nutritional intervention is probably effective in undernourished patients and probably most when combined with an exercise programme. Providing evidence of cost-effectiveness of nutritional intervention is required to support reimbursement and thus increase access to nutritional intervention. Overall, the evidence indicates that a well-balanced diet is beneficial to all COPD patients, not only for its potential pulmonary benefits, but also for its proven benefits in metabolic and cardiovascular risk.