bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Midlife Arterial Stiffness and Brain Activation During Working Memory Task
Authors: Steward Kayla A. , Pasha Evan , Goudarzi Katyoon , Elmenshawy Ahmed , Alkatan Mohammed , Villalpando Astrid , Tanaka Hirofumi , Haley Andreana P. 
Published: February 2014

Objective:
Arterial stiffness is associated with cognitive decline and may serve as an early marker of brain vulnerability.
In search of potential early intervention targets, the present study examined the neural correlates of working
memory in relation to arterial stiffness in middle-aged, cognitively healthy adults.

Methods:
Twenty-eight adults, ages 40-
60 years, completed a 2-Back verbal working memory task during fMRI. Arterial stiffness was measured using the 􀀁-
stiffness index via simultaneous ultrasound and applanation tonometry on the carotid artery. Mean task-related activation
intensity was determined for 12 a priori regions of interest (ROI). Statistical analyses included partial correlations, controlling
for hypertension status and antihypertensive medication. Results: Arterial stiffness was correlated negatively with
task-related activation in 3 ROIs: left precentral gyrus/BA 6 (r=-0.64, p<0.001), left precentral/middle frontal gyrus
(r=-0.62, p=0.001) and left superior parietal lobule/BA 7 (r=-0.48, p=0.013). There was also a negative association between
arterial stiffness and task-related activation in the right superior frontal gyrus/BA 6 (r=-0.45, p=0.023).

Conclusions:
Greater arterial stiffness was significantly associated with decreased task-related brain activation during a verbal
working memory task, possibly reflecting increased vulnerability for cognitive impairment. Arterial stiffness should be
investigated further as an early marker of cognitive risk and a potential target for early intervention.
Microalbuminuria as a Risk Predictor in Diabetes: The Continuing Saga
Authors: Bakris George L. , Molitch Mark 
Published: February 2014

OBJECTIVE
The rationale for this study was to review the data on microalbuminuria (MA), an amount of albumin in the urine of 30–299 mg/day, in patients with diabetes in the context of cardiovascular risk and development of kidney disease. The objective was to review the pathophysiology of MA in patients with diabetes and review the data from trials regarding MA in the context of risk for cardiovascular events or kidney disease progression.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
Data sources were all PubMed-referenced articles in English-language peer-reviewed journals since 1964. Studies selected had to have a minimum 1-year follow-up and be either a randomized trial linking MA to cardiovascular or kidney disease outcome, a meta-analysis/systematic review, or a large observational cohort study.

RESULTS
The data suggest that MA is a risk marker for cardiovascular events and possibly for kidney disease development. Its presence alone, however, does not indicate established kidney disease, especially if the estimated glomerular filtration rate is &gt;60 mL/min/1.73 m2. An increase in MA, when blood pressure and other risk factors are controlled, portends a poor prognosis for kidney outcomes over time. Early in the course of diabetes, aggressive risk factor management focused on glycemic and blood pressure goals is important to delay kidney disease development and reduce cardiovascular risk.

CONCLUSIONS
MA is a marker of cardiovascular disease risk and should be monitored per guidelines once or twice a year for progression to macroalbuminuria and kidney disease development, especially if plasma glucose, lipids, and blood pressure are at guideline goals.
Tourism, Farm Diversification and Plurality of Rurality: Case Study of Croatia
Authors: Lukić Aleksandar 
Published: February 2014

AbstractPlurality is considered to be one of the most important indicators of rurality in the contemporary society. But in what sense can plurality and diversified geographic context of countryside make a difference for development of farm tourism, if any? This paper aims to explore the significance of rural diversity of Croatia for farm diversification into leisure-orientated activities. The main method is comparison of spatial distribution of those farms, on the one hand, and seven different types of rural areas, on the other. Among others, the results indicate the significance of overall (mass) tourism development along the coast for development of tourism on agricultural households. Furthermore, age and education are confirmed as important factor in the process.
Effect of anions on the structure and catalytic properties of a La-doped Cu-Mn catalyst in the water-gas shift reaction
Authors: He Run-Xia , Jiang Hao-Qiang , Wu Fang , Zhi Ke-Duan , Wang Na , Zhou Chen-Liang , Liu Quan-Sheng 
Published: February 2014

AbstractEffects of the anion type on the structure, thermal stability, and catalytic performance of La-doped Cu-Mn catalysts prepared by co-precipitation were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller, temperature-programmed reduction, temperature-programmed reduction of oxidized surfaces, and temperature-programmed desorption. The Cu-Mn catalyst was tested for the water-gas shift (WGS) reaction. The main crystalline phase of samples prepared with sulfate, acetate, chloride, and nitrate as the starting materials was a Cu1.5Mn1.5O4 spinel structure, following the WGS reaction, the main crystalline phases were transformed into Cu and MnO. The sample prepared with acetate as the starting material showed the most obvious MnCO3 characteristic diffraction peaks, with better synergistic effects of Cu and MnO, increased adsorption of CO2 and improved dispersion of Cu on the catalyst surface; also, the best thermal stability and the highest low temperature catalytic activity were observed. The sample prepared with nitrate as the starting material maintained high thermal stability and catalytic performance in the range of 400°C to 450°C, but CO conversion decreased below 350°C. Catalytic performance of the sample prepared with sulfate and chloride as the starting materials was poor, ranging from 200°C to 450°C.
Examination and Treatment of Patients With Unilateral Vestibular Damage, With Focus on the Musculoskeletal System: A Case Series
Authors: Wilhelmsen Kjersti , Kvåle Alice 
Published: February 2014

Background and PurposePersistent dizziness and balance problems have been reported in some patients with unilateral vestibular pathology. The purpose of this case series was to address the examination and treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction in patients with unilateral vestibular hypofunction.Case DescriptionThe musculoskeletal system was evaluated with the Global Physiotherapy Examination, dynamic balance was measured during walking with triaxial accelerometers positioned on the lower and upper trunk, and symptoms and functional limitations were assessed with standardized self-report measures. The 4 included patients had symptoms of severe dizziness that had lasted more than 1 year after the onset of vestibular dysfunction and a moderate level of perceived disability. Musculoskeletal abnormalities typically included postural misalignment, restricted abdominal respiration, restricted trunk movements, and tense muscles of the upper trunk and neck. The patients attended a modified vestibular rehabilitation program consisting of body awareness exercises addressing posture, movements, and respiration.OutcomesAfter the intervention, self-reported symptoms and perceived disability improved. Improvements in mobility and positive physical changes were found in the upper trunk and respiratory movements. The attenuation of mediolateral accelerations (ie, body oscillations) in the upper trunk changed; a relatively more stable upper trunk and a concomitantly more flexible lower trunk were identified during walking in 3 patients.DiscussionThe recovery process may be influenced by self-inflicted rigid body movements and behavior strategies that prevent compensation. Addressing physical dysfunction and enhancing body awareness directly and dizziness indirectly may help patients with unilateral vestibular hypofunction break a self-sustaining cycle of dizziness and musculoskeletal problems. Considering the body as a functional unit and including both musculoskeletal and vestibular systems in examination and treatment may be important.
Clinical Pressure Pain Threshold Testing in Neck Pain: Comparing Protocols, Responsiveness, and Association With Psychological Variables
Authors: Walton David M. , Levesque Lenerdene , Payne Martin , Schick Julie 
Published: February 2014

Background
Quantitative sensory testing, including pressure pain threshold (PPT), is seeing increased use in clinical practice. In order to facilitate clinical utility, knowledge of the properties of the tool and interpretation of results are required.

Objectives
This observational study used a clinical sample of people with mechanical neck pain to determine: (1) the influence of number of testing repetitions on measurement properties, (2) reliability and minimum clinically important difference, and (3) associations between PPT and key psychological constructs.

Design
This study was observational with both cross-sectional and prospective elements.

Methods
Experienced clinicians measured PPT in patients with mechanical neck pain following a standardized protocol. Subcohorts also provided repeated measures and completed scales of key psychological constructs.

Results
The total sample was 206 participants, but not all participants provided data for all analyses. Interrater and 1-week test-retest reliability were excellent (intraclass correlation coefficients [2,1]=.75–.95). Potentially important differences in reliability and PPT scores were found when using only 1 or 2 repeated measures compared with all 3. The PPT over a distal location (tibialis anterior muscle) was not adequately responsive in this sample, but the local site (upper trapezius muscle) was responsive and may be useful as part of a protocol to evaluate clinical change. Sensitivity values (range=0.08–0.50) and specificity values (range=0.82–0.97) for a range of change scores are presented. Depression, catastrophizing, and kinesiophobia were able to explain small but statistically significant variance in local PPT (3.9%–5.9%), but only catastrophizing and kinesiophobia explained significant variance in the distal PPT (3.6% and 2.9%, respectively).

Limitations
Limitations of the study include multiple raters, unknown recruitment rates, and unknown measurement properties at sites other than those tested here.

Conclusions
The results suggest that PPT is adequately reliable and that 3 measurements should be taken to maximize measurement properties. The variance explained by the psychological variables was small but significant for 3 constructs related to catastrophizing, depression, and fear of movement. Clinical implications for application and interpretation of PPT are discussed.
Assessing the Patient-Specific Functional Scale's Ability to Detect Early Recovery Following Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Stratford Paul W. , Kennedy Deborah M. , Wainwright Amy V. 
Published: February 2014

BackgroundThe Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) has received considerable attention over the last 2 decades; however, validation studies have not examined its performance in patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of the PSFS to detect change in patients post-TKA by comparing PSFS change scores with Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) and pooled impairment change scores.MethodsOne hundred thirty-three patients participating in a post-TKA exercise class were assessed at their initial and discharge visits. Initial assessments occurred within 28 days of arthroplasty; follow-up assessments occurred within 80 days of surgery. At both assessments, participants completed the PSFS, LEFS, and the P4 pain measure, and their knee range of motion (ROM) and extensor strength were measured. The ability to detect change was expressed as the standardized response mean (SRM) and as a correlation between the PSFS change scores and 2 reference standards: (1) LEFS change scores and (2) pooled impairment change scores. The pooled impairment measure consisted of pain, ROM, and strength change scores.ResultsThe SRMs were PSFS 4.60 (95% confidence interval [CI]=4.00, 5.36) for the PSFS and 2.28 (95% CI=2.04, 2.60) for the LEFS. The correlation between the PSFS and pooled impairment change scores was 0.12 (95% CI=−0.04, 0.25), and the correlation between the PSFS and LEFS changes scores was 0.18 (0.02, 0.34).LimitationsThe order of measure administration was not standardized, and fixed activity set does not reflect clinical application in many instances.ConclusionsThe results suggest that the PSFS is adept at detecting improvement in patients post-TKA but that the PSFS, like other patient-specific measures, is likely to be of limited value in distinguishing different levels of change among patients.
Development and Application of Speed Breeding Technologies in a Commercial Peanut Breeding Program
Authors: O'Connor D. J. , Wright G. C. , Dieters M. J. , George D. L. , Hunter M. N. , Tatnell J. R. , Fleischfresser D. B. 
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT
Reducing the release time of new peanut varieties is a key objective of peanut breeding programs. In the Australian Peanut Genetic Improvement Program release time has traditionally taken 10 to 15 years; however, the relatively recent use of winter breeding and seed increase nurseries has significantly reduced release times. Despite these improvements, full-season maturity cultivars are still limited to two generations in a calendar year, when grown under optimal environmental conditions. This paper describes a new speed breeding technique, which combines controlled environment conditions, continuous light in conjunction with optimal temperature, and a single seed descent breeding strategy in a greenhouse environment. Speed breeding was successful in reducing generation time of full-season maturity cultivars from 145 to 89 days. Speed breeding can rapidly progress the inbreeding of F2, F3 and F4 generations in less than 12 months, and potentially accelerate the development of first cross to commercial release in around six to seven years.
An experimental study to determine and correlate choline acetyltransferase assay with functional muscle testing after nerve injury
Authors: Vathana Torpon , Nijhuis Tim H. J. , Friedrich Patricia F. , Bishop Allen T. , Shin Alexander Y. 
Published: February 2014

Object
Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) is an enzyme synthesized within the body of a motor neuron whose role is to form the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Quantification of ChAT levels in motor or mixed nerves has been proposed to provide information regarding the viability of a proximal nerve stump for motor neurotization following brachial plexus injury. To do so requires information regarding normal ChAT levels and those in injured nerves, as well as the correlation of ChAT level determined at surgery with eventual motor recovery. The purpose of this study was to determine ChAT activity in the normal and injured sciatic/peroneal nerve in a rat model, evaluate the correlation between ChAT and motor recovery, find the relationship between ChAT activity and isometric muscle force, and elucidate the parallel between ChAT activity and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity.

Methods
Sixty animals were divided into 3 groups. The sciatic nerves in Group 1 were transected without repair. Nerves in Group 2 were transected and repaired. Nerves in Group 3 sustained a crush injury followed by transection and reconstruction. All animals were allowed 12 weeks of recovery followed by evaluation of ChAT levels in the peroneal nerve, correlated with measures of maximal isometric tibialis anterior muscle force and muscle weight (the operated side normalized to the control side). Karnovsky AChE staining of peroneal nerve segments was also compared with radiochemical assay of ChAT activity in the same nerve.

Results
A significant difference in the tibialis anterior isometric tetanic force and the tibialis anterior muscle weight index (TAMI) was noted between Group 1 and Groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.0001); no significant difference was found comparing Group 2 with Group 3. The correlation between the force measurement and the TAMI was 0.382. Both AChE measurement and ChAT activity demonstrated significantly fewer fibers in the operated nerve compared with the contralateral nerve. Intergroup variability could also be illustrated using these tests. The correlation coefficient between the isometric tetanic force measurement and the ChAT analysis in Groups 1 and 2 was 0.468. The correlation for the AChE staining and the isometric tetanic force measurement was 0.111. The correlation between the TAMI and the ChAT levels was 0.773. The correlation between the TAMI and the AChE-stained fibers was 0.640. Correlating AChE staining to the ChAT analysis produced a correlation of 0.712.

Conclusions
The great variability in all groups and weak correlations to the functional muscle assessments and the ChAT radiochemical assay made this technique an unreliable method of determining motor nerve viability.
IL-27 in Human Secondary Lymphoid Organs Attracts Myeloid Dendritic Cells and Impairs HLA Class I–Restricted Antigen Presentation
Authors: Morandi Fabio , Di Carlo Emma , Ferrone Soldano , Petretto Andrea , Pistoia Vito , Airoldi Irma 
Published: February 2014

Abstract
Different cytokines play crucial roles in inflammation and in polarizing immune responses, including IL-27 that exerts pro- and anti-inflammatory functions. Although the activity of IL-27 is well characterized in murine immune cells, only limited information is available regarding the natural cellular sources of IL-27 in humans and its effects on human immune cells. Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most potent professional APCs that in the immature state are positioned throughout peripheral tissues by acting as sentinels, sensing the presence of Ags. Activated DCs migrate into the lymph nodes and direct Ag-specific T cell responses, thus acting as key players in both adaptive and innate immunity. In this study we asked whether IL-27 is produced by human secondary lymphoid organs and what is its functional role on human DCs. To our knowledge, we provide the first evidence that 1) in lymph nodes, macrophages are the major source for IL-27; 2) immature and mature human DCs express functional IL-27R; 3) IL-27 exerts immunosuppressive activity by crippling the Ag processing machinery in immature DCs under steady-state conditions and after pulsing with a viral Ag; and 4) IL-27 is chemotactic for human DCs. Our findings highlight novel mechanisms underlying the immunosuppressive activity of IL-27, suggesting that this cytokine may function as a homeostatic cytokine in secondary lymphoid organs by limiting duration and/or intensity of ongoing adaptive immune responses. The results presented in this study pave the way to future studies aimed at investigating whether dysregulation of IL-27 expression and function may be involved in pathogenesis of autoimmune disease and cancer.
Oxidized Lipids Block Antigen Cross-Presentation by Dendritic Cells in Cancer
Authors: Cao Wei , Ramakrishnan Rupal , Tuyrin Vladimir A. , Veglia Filippo , Condamine Thomas , Amoscato Andrew , Mohammadyani Dariush , Johnson Joseph J. , Min Zhang Lan , Klein-Seetharaman Judith , Celis Esteban , Kagan Valerian E. , Gabrilovich Dmitry I. 
Published: February 2014

AbstractCross-presentation is one of the main features of dendritic cells (DCs), which is critically important for the development of spontaneous and therapy-inducible antitumor immune responses. Patients, at early stages of cancer, have normal presence of DCs. However, the difficulties in the development of antitumor responses in patients with low tumor burden raised the question of the mechanisms of DC dysfunction. In this study, we found that, in differentiated DCs, tumor-derived factors blocked the cross-presentation of exogenous Ags without inhibiting the Ag presentation of endogenous protein or peptides. This effect was caused by intracellular accumulation of different types of oxidized neutral lipids: triglycerides, cholesterol esters, and fatty acids. In contrast, the accumulation of nonoxidized lipids did not affect cross-presentation. Oxidized lipids blocked cross-presentation by reducing the expression of peptide–MHC class I complexes on the cell surface. Thus, this study suggests the novel role of oxidized lipids in the regulation of cross-presentation.
For an End to Pinioning: The Case Against the Legal Mutilation of Birds in Captivity
Authors: Tyson Elizabeth 
Published: February 2014

Abstract
This article discusses the "pinioning" of birds in English zoos. Pinioning is the partial amputation of a bird’s wing and renders the individual permanently flightless. Around 5,650 birds have been pinioned in five Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) zoos in England. Licenses are held by the WWT under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to allow the shooting of free-living birds in order to prevent interference with the captive pinioned birds. The associated practices of pinioning and shooting are considered in legal and ethical contexts. It is concluded that there is no compelling case to support the continuation of pinioning.
An Evaluative Review of Theories Related to Animal Cruelty
Authors: Gullone Eleonora 
Published: February 2014

Abstract
The two dominant theories relating to animal cruelty are critically reviewed. These are (1) the violence graduation hypothesis and (2) the deviance generalization hypothesis. The outcomes indicate very high consistency with the broader antisocial behavior and aggression literature, which is large and very robust. This strongly supports the validity of the animal cruelty theory proposals. Proposals that animal cruelty is one of the earliest indicators of externalizing disorders and that it is a marker of development along a more severe trajectory of antisocial and aggressive behaviors are supported. The implications of these conclusions are discussed.