bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Harnessing Massively Parallel Sequencing in Personalized Head and Neck Oncology
Authors: Jessri M. , Farah C.S.
Published: February 2014

Advances in the management of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have not significantly changed the prognosis of this tumor over the past five decades. Molecular heterogeneity of HNSCC and its association with HPV, in addition to the increase in the number of cancers arising in traditionally low-risk patients, are among some of the obstacles to the successful management of this group of tumors. Massively parallel sequencing, otherwise known as next-generation sequencing (NGS), is rapidly changing conventional patient management by providing detailed information about each patient’s genome and transcriptome. Despite major advances in technology and a significant reduction in the cost of sequencing, NGS remains mainly limited to research facilities. In addition, there are only a few published studies that have utilized this technology in HNSCC. This paper aims to report briefly on current commercially available NGS platforms and discuss their clinical applications, ethical considerations, and utilization in personalized patient care, particularly as this relates to head and neck cancer.
Using Chinese Travel Blogs to Examine Perceived Destination Image
Authors: Sun Minghui , Ryan Chris , Pan Steve
Published: February 2014

This study uses content analysis to identify the perceived destination image held by Chinese tourists to New Zealand. In this study, qualitative content analysis is the primary mode of analysis, but quantitative methods are used as a support. The findings reveal the main components of New Zealand, as perceived by Chinese tourists, as being the possession of a protected ecological environment, a variety of activities, and a highly developed society with a “Pakeha” culture. The study also indicates that Chinese cultural norms play an important role in the process of perception formation and interpretation. These norms include the desire for harmony, Li, and a respect of authorities. It is suggested that blogs are an important resource by which destination marketing organizations can seek to influence potential tourists and by which tourist perceptions of place can be assessed.
In the Crossfire
Authors: Esch Sophie
Published: February 2014

So-called narcoliterature in Mexico faces bitter controversy about its merits, duties, and scope. Compared with the three dominant discourses about the narco phenomenon in Mexico (the state, the media and music), literary texts harbor the possibility of presenting a more complex viewpoint. In particular, the novel Contrabando, by Víctor Hugo Rascón Banda, draws an especially ambiguous and complex image of the narco enterprise and avoids moralist, sensationalist, and romanticizing perspectives. The novel challenges hegemonic discourses about the narco world in Mexico by depicting the drug producer or trafficker not as a deviant, outlaw, or outsider but as intimately ingrained in both public and private spheres. In addition, the novel represents a critical reflection on the relationship between fictional literature and drug trafficking. It questions the role of writers and intellectuals in the context of narco violence. At the same time it proposes fragmentation and intermediality as possible literary strategies for narrating the narco phenomenon.

La llamada narcoliteratura en México se enfrenta a una fuerte polémica sobre sus méritos, deberes y alcances. Al lado de los tres discursos y fuentes dominantes sobre el narco en México (el estado, los medios y la música), textos literarios guardan la posibilidad de presentar una visión más compleja. En particular la novela Contrabando de Víctor Hugo Rascón Banda pinta un cuadro especialmente ambiguo y complejo de la gran empresa del narco y evita miradas moralistas, sensacionalistas y románticas. La novela desafía los discursos hegemónicos sobre el narco en México al no representar al narco como el fuera-ley, fuera-estado, fuera-sociedad. Por el contrario, Contrabando presenta al narco íntimamente arraigado tanto en la esfera pública como en la privada. Además, la novela misma es una reflexión crítica sobre la relación entre literatura ficcional y narcotráfico. Haciendo referencia a narcocorridos, la novela cuestiona el rol de los letrados en el contexto de la violencia del narco. Al mismo tiempo propone la fragmentación y la intermedialidad como posibles estrategias para narrar el narco.
The Narcomedia
Authors: Eiss Paul K.
Published: February 2014

Most commentators interpret the messages left by drug traffickers—often accompanied by gruesomely disfigured human remains—as simple acts of score-settling or claims of territory between rival groups. A case study of the narcomedia— narcomensajes, narcovideos, and narcomantas— in Yucatán in 2008, as well as an exploration of contemporary public debates relating the narcomedia at the national level over the ensuing years, provides some alternative ways to read the narcomedia: in the context of the rise of the new media; in terms of networks of relationships between new and “old” media; as interventions into regionally embedded and nationally framed political struggles; and as a focal point of struggles over media censorship, the public sphere, and counterpublics in contemporary Mexico.

Mayoría de los comentaristas interpreta los mensajes dejados por narcotraficantes, a menudo acompañados por restos humanos brutalmente desfigurados, como simples actos de venganza o reclamos territoriales entre grupos rivales. Un estudio de caso de los narcomedios (narcomensajes, narcovideos y narcomantas) en Yucatán en 2008, así como una exploración de los debates públicos contemporáneos relativos a éstos a nivel nacional en los años subsiguientes, ofrece algunas alternativas de lectura: en el contexto del surgimiento de los nuevos medios; en relación a las redes de relaciones entre los medios nuevos y “viejos”; como intervenciones en luchas políticas integradas regionalmente y enmarcadas a nivel nacional; y como un punto focal de luchas sobre la censura de los medios de comunicación, la esfera pública y contrapúblicos en el México contemporáneo.
Gender Differences in Factors Related to Diabetes Management in Chinese American Immigrants
Authors: Chesla Catherine A. , Kwan Christine M. L. , Chun Kevin M. , Stryker Lisa
Published: February 2014

Chinese American women with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are more vulnerable to poor diabetes outcomes than men because immigrant status, ethnicity, and economics intersect with gender to diminish disease management opportunities. We explored gender differences in factors associated with diabetes management at intake and after treatment with a behavioral intervention in first-generation Chinese American immigrants. A sample of 178 Chinese Americans with T2DM was enrolled in a single-cohort, repeated-measures delayed-treatment trial. Data were collected at baseline, 8, 16, 24, and 32 weeks with 6-week treatment provided after 16 weeks. Gender differences at baseline and gender by treatment interactions were noted. Women at baseline reported significantly worse depressive symptoms and general health. Significant gender by treatment interactions were observed for diabetes self-efficacy, bicultural efficacy, family instrumental support, and diabetes quality of life–satisfaction. Only women showed improvement, suggesting women benefited more from the intervention in psychosocial factors related to diabetes management.
Adolescents’ visions of their future careers, educational plans, and life pathways
Authors: Ellison Nicole B. , Wohn D. Yvette , Greenhow Christine M.
Published: February 2014

This study investigates the experiences and life aspirations of adolescents based on interview data collected from primarily first-generation high school students in three Midwestern suburban and rural towns ( N = 43) using a social capital framework. We explore adolescents’ descriptions of experiences that represent new or different careers, cultures, and life paths and how they talk about their future professional and educational aspirations. Our participants were exposed to new possible careers, cultures, and life paths from both online and offline experiences, such as study abroad, online gaming, and some uses of social media. Online networks that primarily reflected offline connections, such as Facebook, were less likely to provide these experiences.
Teens’ self-efficacy to deal with dating violence as victim, perpetrator or bystander
Authors: Van Camp Tinneke , Hébert Martine , Guidi Elisa , Lavoie Francine , Blais Martin
Published: February 2014

Multiple studies have demonstrated that adolescent dating violence is highly prevalent and is associated with internalizing and externalizing problems. A number of prevention initiatives are being implemented in North American high schools. Such initiatives aim to raise awareness among potential victims and offenders, and also among peer bystanders. As teenagers mainly reach out to their peers when experiencing adversity, it is important to address adolescents’ efficacy in dealing with witnessing dating violence or with friends disclosing dating abuse, in addition to increasing their ability to deal with experienced dating violence victimization or perpetration. The aim of this study is to explore adolescents’ self-efficacy to deal with dating violence victimization and perpetration in their relationships and those of their peers. A paper-and-pencil questionnaire was completed by 259 14−18-year-olds in Quebec, Canada. The data allow building insight into adolescents’ confidence to reach out for help or to help others in a situation of dating violence victimization and perpetration. We also considered the impact of gender and dating victimization history. Results suggest that dating violence prevention can build on teens’ self-efficacy to deal with dating violence and offer them tools to do so efficiently.
Examining relations between alpha power as well as anterior cingulate cortex-localized theta activity and response to single or dual antidepressant pharmacotherapies
Authors: Jaworska Natalia , Blondeau Claude , Tessier Pierre , Norris Sandhaya , Fusee Wendy , Blier Pierre , Knott Verner
Published: February 2014

Electrocortical indices may be useful in predicting antidepressant response. Greater pretreatment alpha power and high rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC) theta activity tend to index a favorable outcome. The predictive utility of alpha power asymmetry has been under-explored. Baseline alpha2 (10.5–13.0 Hz) power/asymmetry, rACC theta2 (6.0–8.0 Hz) activity and early (one week) changes in these measures were assessed in relation to antidepressant response by week 12 to three treatment regimens (escitalopram (ESC) + bupropion (BUP), ESC or BUP) in patients with major depressive disorder ( N=51). No treatment differences in response existed at week 12. Overall, treatment responders exhibited high, and non-responders low, frontal baseline alpha2 power. Frontal alpha2 power weakly discriminated responders/non-responders overall while posterior alpha2 power and BA25-localized theta2 activity strongly discriminated ESC responders/non-responders. No associations with alpha2 asymmetry and response emerged. BUP responders exhibited high, and BUP non-responders low, baseline rACC theta2 activity. Greater early decreases in rACC theta2 activity existed in ESC+BUP non-responders versus ESC+BUP responders. BUP responders exhibited greater rACC theta2 activity decreases than ESC responders. These preliminary results indicate that baseline and early changes in alpha2 and rACC theta2 activity associate with response and have implications for tailoring antidepressant treatments.
Modelling of sound radiation from a beam-stiffened plate and a clamped rectangular plate based on a modal method
Authors: Yoo Ji Woo
Published: February 2014

The farfield acoustic radiation efficiency and power of a flexible rectangular plate coupled to a relatively stiffer beam are investigated. A numerical model based on a modal method that consists of a plate with sliding edges surrounded by four stiff beams is studied. Assuming that each beam is a heavy mass, a plate with clamped edges is realised, and this model is verified. This model is then extended to a beam-stiffened plate. If the bending stiffness of the excited beam is large, the radiation efficiency increases in the corner- and edge-mode frequency regions and is higher than that of the clamped plate in terms of the averaged response for randomly selected excitations. The reason for this effect is that the corner and edge areas that radiate sound are broader because the behaviour of the plate is governed by the motion of the stiff beam. This is explained in terms of the wavenumber and the wavelength of a stiff beam and a flexible plate. It is shown that this is true only when the excitation is applied to the beam, and the radiation efficiency is similar if the plate is excited. In addition, it was found that the radiation power decreases with increasing beam stiffness because the vibration of the plate actually decreases. In addition, it was shown that the variation in the radiation efficiency of the beam-stiffened plate is smaller when the beam is excited than when the plate is excited.
Rare autoantibodies to cellular antigens in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Fredi M , Cavazzana I , Quinzanini M , Taraborelli M , Cartella S , Tincani A , Franceschini F
Published: February 2014

Objective

A high number of antinuclear antibody specificities can be detected in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Some of them are related to a distinct clinical subset of disease, independently of their frequency. The aim of our study was to investigate, in a cohort of SLE patients, the prevalence and the clinical relevance of autoantibodies to cellular antigens less frequently found in SLE.

Methods

Antinuclear antibodies were detected by indirect immunofluorescence on HEp-2 cells while counterimmunoelectrophoresis was used to detect anti-ENA antibodies in 540 patients with SLE, classified according to ACR and SLICC criteria. Clinical and serological features were collected from clinical charts.

Results

A total of 319 (58.9%) out of 540 sera were positive for anti-ENA antibodies. Anti-Ro/SSA was found in 235 sera, 50 of which also contained anti-La/SSB. Anti-U1RNP were detected in 67, anti-Sm in 46 and anti-ribosomal P protein in 13 sera. In a multivariate analysis anti-Sm was associated with discoid lupus ( p = 0.045) and photosensitivity ( p = 0.037), anti-U1RNP with malar rash and Raynaud’s phenomenon ( p = 0.01 and p = 0.0004, respectively) and anti-Ro/SSA with malar rash, oral ulcers, xerostomia, xerophthalmia and rheumatoid factor ( p = 0.029, p = 0.01, p = 0.031, p = 0.002 and p = 0.028, respectively). Other anti-ENA antibodies were found in 50 positive sera (15.6%). Anti-Ki antibodies were detected in 31, anti-Ku in 8, anti-centromere in 5, isolated anti-La/SSB, anti-PCNA and anti-Topo I in 3 each and anti-Jo-1 in 2 sera. About half of these antibodies (27 out of 50) were detected as the single anti-ENA specificity in serum. At multivariate analysis anti-Ki was significantly associated with male gender while anti-Ku with African ethnicity ( p = 0.017 and p < 0.0001, respectively). No sign of muscular or pulmonary involvement was found in anti-Jo-1-positive patients whilst features of systemic sclerosis were detectable in two out of three anti-Topo I.

Conclusions

Our study shows that antibodies to cellular antigens more rarely found in SLE are detectable in more than 15% of patients with anti-ENA antibodies. Most of them are found as single anti-ENA specificity. Anti-Ki and anti-Ku are found in a subset of disease, characterized by male gender and African origin, respectively. Clinical features of scleroderma were found only in patients with anti-Topo I.
Self-sensing actuation using online capacitance measurement with application to active vibration control
Authors: Asghari Mohsen , Rezaei Seyed M , Rezaie Amir H , Zareinejad Mohammad , Ghafarirad Hamed
Published: February 2014

Self-sensing actuation has been extensively used in vibration control of flexible structures over the last three decades. Positive position feedback controller has been commonly used in this field due to the robustness against spillover phenomena. Piezoelectric clamped capacitance is the most important parameter that affects the performance of this technique. In this study, the effect of capacitance change on performance and stability of a self-sensing system with positive position feedback controller is investigated. Based on this analysis, some modifications are suggested to increase the stability of the closed-loop system against capacitance change. An online Fourier transform–based capacitance measurement method is used, which guarantees good performance and stability of closed-loop system in the presence of capacitance change. Experimental results are also presented to show the effectiveness of this method in vibration control of cantilever beam.
Urbanization and Political Change in the Developing World
Authors: Anthony Robert M.
Published: February 2014

This article develops a theoretical and empirical evaluation of the overlooked relationship between urbanization and political change. To accomplish this, theoretical insights from Weber, Lerner and Lipset’s political modernization thesis, and Dahl and Tufte’s analysis of size and democracy are used to assess the link between features of a nation’s urban system and changes to its political trajectory. A cross-national time-series analysis of 110 nations from 1965 to 2010, as well as the mini case study of Morocco, provides strong evidence that various dimensions of urbanization play an important role in eliciting political change in the developing world.
Investigation of Parenchymal Abdominal Organ Disease in Cats
Authors: Murgia Daniela
Published: February 2014

Practical relevance:

Definitive diagnosis of disease involving the parenchymal abdominal viscera often requires a representative specimen of affected tissue. Methods used to obtain tissue samples range from those that are minimally invasive, such as fine-needle aspiration (FNA), to more invasive techniques such as surgical biopsy.

Clinical challenges:

FNA and cytological examination can be a useful diagnostic tool and is commonly used for hepatic, splenic and lymph node specimens. FNA is an easy and cheap procedure that is best suited to diffuse disease and can be performed at low risk to the patient. However, its accuracy and agreement with the histopathological findings vary depending on the underlying disease and it often fails to provide information on parenchymal architecture. Importantly, FNA for cytological examination of the liver has serious limitations when used to identify the primary disease process due to the small sample size obtained.

Audience:

This review is aimed at clinicians undertaking more detailed and specialist investigation of diseases of feline parenchymal abdominal organs and provides practical guidance on the different methods used to obtain hepatic, renal, pancreatic and splenic specimens in cats.

Evidence base:

The information presented is based on peer-reviewed publications and the clinical experience of the author.
Caring for older people living alone with dementia: Healthcare professionals’ experiences
Authors: de Witt Lorna , Ploeg Jenny
Published: February 2014

Older adults living alone with dementia are at greater risk of placement in long-term care homes compared with those living with others. Healthcare professionals have vital roles in supporting them to continue living in the community. Yet, little is known about how healthcare professionals fulfill these roles and what their experiences are like. The study purpose was to describe health care professionals’ experiences of caring for older people with dementia living alone. Using a qualitative descriptive approach and qualitative content analysis method, 15 healthcare professionals were interviewed in Ontario, Canada. The overall theme of the findings, doing the best we can for them, involved discussing sensitive care issues with what professionals viewed as gentle realism. Walking the tightrope expressed tensions in meeting professional responsibilities. Constraints ( my hands are tied) and boundaries ( it’s not my job, it’s not my decision) described perceived limitations on professional roles. Effects of the emotional struggle involved in working with these older people were lessened by believing I did the right thing. The findings have implications for what we could do better for older people with dementia living alone, through integration of person-centered/relationship-centered principles in education programs, community agency policies, a national dementia care strategy, and culture change in community care.
Reference-free damage detection for truss bridge structures by continuous relative wavelet entropy method
Authors: Lee Soon Gie , Yun Gun Jin , Shang Shen
Published: February 2014

This article proposes a continuous relative wavelet entropy–based reference-free damage detection algorithm for truss bridge structures. Advantages of the proposed method are that (1) there is no need to measure dynamic response of pristine structures, in other words, the method is reference-free; (2) it is suitable for highly nonlinear and nonstationary random response data due to the multiresolution signal analysis feature of the continuous wavelet transform; and (3) it is sensitive to slight damage extents (i.e. 5%–10%) for the tested damage type (i.e. loosening of bolts). In order to demonstrate consistency and sensitivity of the proposed method, multiple experimental tests using a laboratory-size truss structure were mainly conducted for various damage scenarios and progressive damage states. The proposed continuous relative wavelet entropy–based reference-free damage detection algorithm showed reliable damage localization capabilities, and it is proven as an effective method compared to other damage detection methods that are dependent on the measurement signals from pristine structures. Due to the generality of the proposed method, applications to identify other types of damage based on different types of signals can be expected.
A Framework for Understanding Community Colleges’ Organizational Capacity for Data Use
Authors: Kerrigan Monica Reid
Published: February 2014

This convergent parallel design mixed methods case study of four community colleges explores the relationship between organizational capacity and implementation of data-driven decision making (DDDM). The article also illustrates purposive sampling using replication logic for cross-case analysis and the strengths and weaknesses of quantitizing qualitative data in a mixed methods design. The findings suggest that community colleges’ organizational capacity for data-driven decision making is a function of human and social capital, but not physical capital. Methodologically, the data analyses suggest that researchers considering quantitizing qualitative data should consider an exploratory sequential design to better understand the phenomenon under study before reducing qualitative data to numbers.
Anti-inflammatory/antioxidant use in long-term maintenance cancer therapy: a new therapeutic approach to disease progression and recurrence
Authors: Crawford Sarah
Published: February 2014

The chronic, progressive clinical characteristics of many adult solid tumor malignancies suggest that a more effective therapeutic approach to cancer management may require long-term intervention using nontoxic systemic agents that block critical components of abnormal tumor physiology. Two highly promising systemic targets common to the development, progression and recurrence of many common cancers are dysregulated inflammatory and oxidation/reduction (redox) pathways. Compelling clinical data support the use of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents as a therapeutic modality for long-term use in patients diagnosed with several common cancers, including colon cancer and breast cancer. The therapeutic paradigm presented in this paper is the product of a synthesis of what is currently understood about the biological effects of inflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to tumorigenesis, disease progression and recurrence as well as results obtained from research on the use of prophylactics with anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties in cancer prevention and treatment.
The Impact of an Insurance Administration–Free Primary Care Office on Hospital Admissions
Authors: Agee Mark D. , Gates Zane
Published: February 2014

This study compares hospital admissions over a 3-year period (2009-2011) between a community’s 2 major private, fee-for-service physician groups and an insurance administration–free, hospital-affiliated clinic designed to provide a full array of primary care services to low-income individuals at little or no cost. We use data on patients’ chronic conditions and inpatient hospital admissions to compare patients’ average number of physician office visits and overall hospital admission rates per 1000 patients. The data indicate that while clinic patients have a higher (or equal) average number of chronic conditions compared with patients in the private physician groups, they exhibit lower hospital admission rates. Clinic patients also exhibit a higher average annual frequency of physician visits. Results of this study suggest that enhanced access to primary care could help mitigate inefficient use of non–urgent care hospital resources for the uninsured and reduce costly hospitalizations even in the short run.
Room temperature mechanical strength and fracture behaviour of Nb–Ti–Si–Cr based alloy
Authors: Su L. , Jia L. , Yuan S. , Zhou L. , Zhang H. , Zhang H.
Published: February 2014

The effect of heat treatment on the mechanical strength of a three-phase NbSS/Nb5Si3/Cr2Nb alloy with composition Nb–22Ti–12Si–14Cr–2Al–2Hf was investigated. This included the evaluation of microstructure, room temperature mechanical strength and the fracture behaviours. The microstructures of heat treated samples were composed of NbSS, Nb5Si3 and Cr2Nb, and the phase size changed under different heat treatment schemes. The results showed that the microstructure composed of large NbSS and fine Nb5Si3 exhibited best mechanical strength due to the deformation of NbSS in these samples. Moreover, fractographic analysis indicated that the Nb5Si3 and Cr2Nb fractured in cleavage manner in all heat treated samples.
Microstructure evolution and impact toughness of sandwich structured composite prepared by centrifugal casting and hot rolling process
Authors: Liu F. , Jiang Y. , Lu D. , Xiao H. , Tan J.
Published: February 2014

A sandwich structured composite containing a hypereutectic high chromium cast iron (HCCI) core and low carbon steel (LCS) claddings was successfully fabricated by centrifugal casting and hot rolling process, and then a series of heat treatments were employed to optimise the performance of the composites. The evolution of microstructures and microhardness of as cast, hot rolled and heat treated specimens were investigated. The results showed that the interfaces combined well with a good metallurgical bonding before hot rolling. Etuectic carbides are crushed, refined obviously and become more isolated. There is not obvious break between primary carbides. The hardness of hot rolled HCCI is 62 HRC, which is higher than that of as cast HCCI (56 HRC) due to the broken and diffusely distributed carbides. The hardness of hot rolled HCCI can reach up to 69 HRC or above after air quenching. The average impact toughness of LCS/HCCI composite could reach up to 10·1 J cm−2, which was almost three times that of the as cast sample. Glide lamellas were observed among the interface due to the stagger of LCS and HCCI.
Experiment and simulation analysis of surface structure for CuW contact after arc erosion
Authors: Wang Y. L. , Liang S. H. , Li Z. B.
Published: February 2014

As an electrical contact, CuW alloy tends to be eroded under high voltage arc, and cracks would appear on the surface of the contact. Arc erosion experiments under high voltage arc were implemented on CuW contact, and then the inner stresses were analysed with the finite element method. Results showed that the surface of the CuW contact was changed to graded structure, including tungsten, tungsten skeleton and CuW alloy, with the increase in arcing cycle, and microcracks initiated and then propagated into the depth mainly due to transverse stresses. During arcing, the temperature and induced thermal stress were improved because of the appearance of graded structure on the surface, and then the erosion and cracks were enhanced. Hence, the failure mechanism of CuW contact was revealed.
Predictive factors for the outcome of allogeneic transplantation in patients with MDS stratified according to the revised IPSS-R
Authors: Della Porta Matteo G. , Alessandrino Emilio Paolo , Bacigalupo Andrea , van Lint Maria Teresa , Malcovati Luca , Pascutto Cristiana , Falda Michele , Bernardi Massimo , Onida Francesco , Guidi Stefano , Iori Anna Paola , Cerretti Raffaella , Marenco Paola , Pioltelli Pietro , Angelucci Emanuele , Oneto Rosi , Ripamonti Francesco , Bernasconi Paolo , Bosi Alberto , Cazzola Mario , Rambaldi Alessandro
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Disease relapse is a common cause of failure of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with advanced MDS. High IPSS-R prognostic risk category and monosomal karyotype are independent predictors of relapse after allogeneic transplantation in MDS.
Worsened arterial stiffness in high-risk cardiovascular patients with high habitual carbohydrate intake: a cross-sectional vascular function study
Authors: Chan Hiu-Ting , Chan Yap-Hang , Yiu Kai Hang , Li Sheung-Wai , Tam Sidney , Lau Chu-Pak , Tse Hung-Fat
Published: February 2014

Background

Previous studies suggested that high dietary carbohydrate intake is associated with increased cardiovascular risk through raised triglyceride and decreased high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels. However, the relation between carbohydrate intake and arterial stiffness has not been established. The purpose of this study was to examine this relation among high-risk cardiovascular patients.

Methods

We studied the relation between dietary macronutrient intake and arterial stiffness in 364 patients with documented cardiovascular diseases or risk equivalent (coronary artery diseases 62%, ischemic stroke 13%, diabetes mellitus 55%) and in 93 age-and-sex matched control subjects. Dietary macronutrient intake was assessed using a validated food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for Chinese. Heart-ankle pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured non-invasively with a Vascular Profiling System (VP2000, Colin Corp. USA). A dietary pattern with ≥60% total energy intake derived from carbohydrates was defined as a high-carbohydrate diet according to the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) for Chinese.

Results

Subjects who consumed a high-carbohydrate diet had significantly higher mean PWV than those who did not consume a high-carbohydrate diet (P = 0.039). After adjustment for potential confounders, high-carbohydrate diet was associated with significantly increased PWV [B = 73.50 (10.81 to 136.19), P = 0.022]. However, there was no significant association between high-carbohydrate diet and PWV in controls (P = 0.634).

Conclusions

High-carbohydrate diet is associated with increased arterial stiffness in patients with established cardiovascular disease or risk equivalent.
Activation of Peripheral KCNQ Channels Attenuates Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Hayashi Hiroki , Iwata Masashi , Tsuchimori Noboru , Matsumoto Tatsumi
Published: February 2014

Background:

Refractory chronic pain dramatically reduces the quality of life of patients. Existing drugs cannot fully achieve effective chronic pain control because of their lower efficacy and/or accompanying side effects. Voltage-gated potassium channels (KCNQ) openers have demonstrated their analgesic effect in preclinical and clinical studies, and are thus considered to be a potential therapeutic target as analgesics. However, these drugs exhibit a narrow therapeutic window due to their imposed central nerve system (CNS) side effects. To clarify the analgesic effect by peripheral KCNQ channel activation, we investigated whether the analgesic effect of the KCNQ channel opener, retigabine, is inhibited by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of the KCNQ channel blocker, 10, 10-bis (4-Pyridinylmethyl)-9 (10H) -anthracenone dihydrochloride (XE-991) in rats.

Results:

Oral administration (p.o.) of retigabine showed an anticonvulsant effect on maximal electronic seizures and an analgesic effect on complete Freund's adjuvant-induced thermal hyperalgesia. However, impaired motor coordination and reduced exploratory behavior were also observed at the analgesic doses of retigabine. Administration (i.c.v.) of XE-991 reversed the retigabine-induced anticonvulsant effect, impaired motor coordination and reduced exploratory behavior but not the analgesic effect. Moreover, intraplantar administration of retigabine or an additional KCNQ channel opener, N-(6-Chloro-pyridin-3-yl)-3,4-difluoro-benzamide (ICA-27243), inhibited formalin-induced nociceptive behavior.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that the peripheral sensory neuron is the main target for KCNQ channel openers to induce analgesia. Therefore, peripheral KCNQ channel openers that do not penetrate the CNS may be suitable analgesic drugs as they would prevent CNS side effects.
Clinical observation of submandibular gland transfer for the prevention of xerostomia after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a prospective randomized controlled study of 32 cases
Authors: Zhang Xiangmin , Liu Folin , Lan Xiaolin , Yu Lijiang , Wu Wei , Wu Xiuhong , Xiao Fufu , Li Shaojin
Published: February 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of submandibular gland transfer for the prevention of xerostomia after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Methods

Using the randomized controlled clinical research method, 65 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma were randomly divided into an experimental group consisting of 32 patients and a control group consisting of 33 patients. The submandibular glands were averted to the submental region in 32 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma before they received conventional radiotherapy; a lead block was used to shield the submental region during therapy. Prior to radiotherapy, the function of the submandibular glands was assessed using imaging. Submandibular gland function was measured using 99mTc radionuclide scanning at 60 months after radiotherapy. The data in the questionnaire regarding the degree of xerostomia were investigated and saliva secretion was measured at 3, 6, 12, and 60 months after radiotherapy. In addition, the 5-year survival rate was calculated.

Results

After follow-up for 3, 6, and 12 months, the incidence of moderate to severe xerostomia was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group. The average amount of saliva produced by the experimental and control groups was 1.60 g and 0.68 g, respectively (P < 0.001). After follow-up for 60 months, the uptake and secretion functions of the submandibular glands in the experimental group were found to be significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). The incidence of moderate or severe xerostomia was significantly lower than in the control group (15.4% and 76.9%, respectively; P < 0.001). The 5-year survival rates of the experimental group and the control group were 81.3% and 78.8%, respectively, and there was no significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.806).

Conclusions

After a 5 year follow-up period involving 32 patients who had their submandibular glands transferred for the prevention of xerostomia after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, we found that clinical efficacy was good. This approach could improve the quality of life of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients after radiotherapy and would not affect long-term treatment efficacy.
Five years of hospital based surveillance of influenza-like illness and influenza in a short-stay geriatric unit
Authors: Régis Corinne , Voirin Nicolas , Escuret Vanessa , Kim Byeul-A , Robert Olivier , Lina Bruno , Comte Brigitte , Vanhems Philippe
Published: February 2014

Background

Data on influenza in the healthcare setting are often based on retrospective investigations of outbreaks and a few studies described influenza during several consecutive seasons.

The aim of the present work is to report data on influenza like illness (ILI) and influenza from 5-year prospective surveillance in a short-stay geriatrics unit.

Findings

A short stay geriatrics unit underwent 5 years of ILI surveillance from November 2004 to March 2009, with the aim of describing ILI in a non-outbreak context. The study was proposed to patients who presented ILI, defined as fever >37.8°C or cough or sore throat. Among 1,353 admitted patients, 115 presented an ILI, and 34 had hospital-acquired ILI (HA-ILI). Influenza was confirmed in 23 patients, 13 of whom had been vaccinated. Overall attack rates were 2.78% and 0.02% for HA-ILI and HA-confirmed influenza respectively, during the 5 seasons.

Conclusions

This 5-year surveillance study supports the notion that influenza infections are common in hospitals, mostly impacting the elderly hospitalized in short-stay units. It highlights the need for appropriate control measures to prevent HA-ILI in geriatric units and protect elderly patients.
Plasma homocysteine levels and genetic polymorphisms in folate metablism are associated with breast cancer risk in chinese women
Authors: Wu Xiayu , Zou Tianning , Cao Neng , Ni Juan , Xu Weijiang , Zhou Tao , Wang Xu
Published: February 2014

Background

Folate plays a pivotal role in DNA synthesis, repair, methylation and homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism. Therefore, alterations in the folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism may lead to abnormal methylation proliferation, increases of tumor/neoplasia and vein thrombosis/cardiovascular risk. The serine hydroxymethyhransferase (SHMT), methionine synthase (MS), methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) and cystathionine beta synthase (CBS) regulate key reactions in the folate and Hcy metabolism. Therefore, we investigated whether the genetic variants of theSHMT, MS, MTRRandCBS gene can affect plasma Hcy levels and are associated with breast cancer risk.

Methods

Genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP method. Plasma Hcy levels were measured by the fluorescence polarization immunoassay on samples of 96 cases and 85 controls.

Results

(a) TheSHMT 1420 T, MS 2756G, MTRR 66Gallele frequency distribution showed significant difference between case and controls (p < 0.01 ~ 0.05). (b) The concentration of plasma Hcy levels ofSHMT 1420TTwas significantly lower than that of the wild type, while the plasma Hcy levels ofMS 2756GG,CBS 699TT/1080TTsignificantly higher than that of the wild type both in case and controls. The plasma Hcy levels ofMTRR 66GGwas significantly higher than that of wild type in cases. The plasma Hcy levels of the same genotype in cases were significantly higher than those of controls exceptSHMT 1420CC, MS 2756AA, MTRR 66GG; (c) Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed thatSHMT C1420T(OR = 0.527, 95% CI = 0.55 ~ 1.24),MS A2756G(OR = 2.32, 95% CI = 0.29 ~ 0.82),MTRR A66G(OR = 1.84, 95% CI = 0.25 ~ 1.66) polymorphism is significantly associated with breast cancer risk. And elevated plasma Hcy levels were significantly linked to increased risk of breast cancer (adjusted OR = 4.45, 95% CI = 1.89-6.24 for the highest tertile as compared with the lowest tertile).

Conclusions

The current study results seem to suggest a possibility that SHMT C1420Tmutation may be negatively correlated with breast cancer susceptibility; whileMS A2756GandMTRR A66Gmutation may be positively associated with breast cancer risk.SHMT C1420T, MS A2756G, MTRR A66G, CBS C1080T, CBS C699Tlocus mutation may be factors affecting plasma levels of Hcy. The plasma Hcy levels could be metabolic risk factor for breast cancer risk to a certain extent.
Exact traveling wave solutions of modified KdV–Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation and viscous Burgers equation
Authors: Islam Md Hamidul , Khan Kamruzzaman , Akbar M Ali , Salam Md Abdus
Published: February 2014

Mathematical modeling of many physical systems leads to nonlinear evolution equations because most physical systems are inherently nonlinear in nature. The investigation of traveling wave solutions of nonlinear partial differential equations (NPDEs) plays a significant role in the study of nonlinear physical phenomena. In this article, we construct the traveling wave solutions of modified KDV-ZK equation and viscous Burgers equation by using an enhanced (G '/G) -expansion method. A number of traveling wave solutions in terms of unknown parameters are obtained. Derived traveling wave solutions exhibit solitary waves when special values are given to its unknown parameters.

Mathematics subject classification

35C07; 35C08; 35P99
Chondroitin sulfate activates B cells in vitro, expands CD138+ cells in vivo, and interferes with established humoral immune responses
Authors: Brühl Hilke , Cihak Josef , Goebel Nicole , Talke Yvonne , Renner Kerstin , Hermann Fabian , Rodriguez-Gomez Manuel , Reich Barbara , Plachý Jîŕi , Stangassinger Manfred , Mack Matthias
Published: February 2014

Glycosaminoglycans have anti-inflammatory properties and interact with a variety of soluble and membrane-bound molecules. Little is known about their effects on B cells and humoral immune responses. We show that CS but not dextran or other glycosaminoglycans induces a pronounced proliferation of B cells in vitro compared with TLR4 or TLR9 ligands. With the use of inhibitors and KO mice, we demonstrate that this proliferation is mediated by the tyrosine kinases BTK and Syk but independent of CD44. Antibodies against Ig-α or Ig-β completely block CS-induced B cell proliferation. Injection of CS in mice for 4–5 days expands B cells in the spleen and results in a marked increase of CD138+ cells in the spleen that is dependent on BTK but independent of CD4+ T cells. Long-term treatment with CS for 14 days also increases CD138+ cells in the bone marrow. When mice were immunized with APC or collagen and treated with CS for up to 14 days during primary or after secondary immune responses, antigen-specific humoral immune responses and antigen-specific CD138+ plasma cells in the bone marrow were reduced significantly. These data show that CD138+ cells, induced by treatment with CS, migrate into the bone marrow and may displace other antigen-specific plasma cells. Overall, CS is able to interfere markedly with primary and fully established humoral immune responses in mice.
Lalla Essaydi: Revisions
Authors: Farrell Erin
Published: February 2014

The exhibition Revisions offers a unique opportunity to see the development of Lalla Essaydi’s ideas as they pertain both to her personal history and to the greater story of Moroccan women. Through analysis of the various collections on view at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, this review traces the patterns of history and ideology Essaydi incorporates into her images. The exhibition in Washington enables visitors to connect concepts that have evolved over time in Essaydi’s work; this review forges these connections and begins a discussion of their importance to the greater field of Arab women artists.
Experimental Measurement of the Adsorption Equilibrium and Kinetics of CO2 in Chromium-Based Metal-Organic Framework MIL-101
Authors: Zhang Zhongzheng , Wang Hui , Li Jianyuan , Wei Wei , Sun Yuhan
Published: February 2014

A series of MIL-101 samples with hierarchical pore structures and different surface areas (2000–4800 m2/g) was synthesized by hydrothermal method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and 77-K N2 adsorption isotherm. The adsorption equilibrium and kinetics of CO2 were studied at 288, 298 and 308 K within a pressure range of 0–5 MPa by a volumetric method. The adsorption heat, mass-transfer constant, diffusion coefficient and diffusion activation energy were also investigated in this work. The results showed that the chromium-based MIL-101 adsorbent exhibited an impressive selectivity for CO2 over N2 and had an adsorption capacity of 20 mmol/g of CO2 at 298 K and 5.0 MPa, which was much better than that of other conventional adsorbents (e.g. SBA-15, MCM-41, SG-A). The adsorption heat of CO2 on MIL-101 was in the range of 21–45 kJ/mol, which decreased with the loading of CO2. The mass-transfer constants and diffusion coefficients increased with the temperature and decreased with the pressure, whereas the diffusion activation energy decreased with the increased pressure, indicating that adsorption of CO2 at high pressures was easier. In addition, a linear correlation was found between CO2 uptake and surface areas at low pressure, which showed that the adsorption capacity of CO2 could be controlled by adjusting the surface area of the prepared adsorbents in this condition.
Numerical and Experimental Investigations on Seismic Response of Building Frames under Influence of Soil-Structure Interaction
Authors: Tabatabaiefar S. Hamid Reza , Fatahi Behzad , Samali Bijan
Published: February 2014

In this study, an enhanced numerical soil-structure model has been developed which treats the behaviour of soil and structure with equal rigour. The proposed numerical soil-structure model has been verified and validated by performing experimental shaking table tests. To achieve this goal, a series of experimental shaking table tests were performed on the physical fixed based (structure directly fixed on top of the shaking table) and flexible base (considering soil and structure) models under the influence of four scaled earthquake acceleration records and the results were measured. Comparing the experimental results with the numerical analysis predictions, it is noted that the numerical predictions and laboratory measurements are in a good agreement. Thus, the proposed numerical soil-structure model is a valid and qualified method of simulation with sufficient accuracy which can be employed for further numerical soil-structure interaction investigation studies. Based on the predicted and observed values of lateral deflections of fixed base and flexible base models, lateral deflections of the flexible base model have noticeably amplified in comparison to the fixed base model. As a result of the lateral deflection amplifications, it is observed that the performance level of the scaled structural model changed significantly which could be safety threatening.
Spatially Varying Ground Motion Effects on Seismic Response of Adjacent Structures considering Soil-Structure Interaction
Authors: Alam Md Iftekharul , Kim Dookie
Published: February 2014

Spatial variation of seismic ground motions is caused by incoherence effect, wave passage, and local site conditions. This study focuses on the effects of spatial variation of earthquake ground motion on the responses of adjacent reinforced concrete (RC) frame structures. The adjacent buildings are modeled considering soil-structure interaction (SSI) so that the buildings can be interacted with each other under uniform and non-uniform ground motions. Three different site classes are used to model the soil layers of SSI system. Based on fast Fourier transformation (FFT), spatially correlated non-uniform ground motions are generated compatible with known power spectrum density function (PSDF) at different locations. Numerical analyses are carried out to investigate the displacement responses and the absolute maximum base shear forces of adjacent structures subjected to spatially varying ground motions. The results are presented in terms of related parameters affecting the structural response using three different types of soil site classes. The responses of adjacent structures have changed remarkably due to spatial variation of ground motions. The effect can be significant on rock site rather than clay site.