bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the coherent emission of radio frequency radiation from high energy particle showers
Authors: Conti Enrico , Sartori Giorgio
Published: February 2017

Extended Air Showers produced by cosmic rays impinging on the earth atmosphere irradiate radio frequency radiation through different mechanisms. Upon certain conditions, the emission has a coherent nature, with the consequence that the emitted power is not proportional to the energy of the primary cosmic rays, but to the energy squared. The effect was predicted in 1962 by Askaryan and it is nowadays experimentally well established and exploited for the detection of ultra high energy cosmic rays.

In this paper, we discuss in detail the conditions for coherence, which in literature have been too often taken for granted, and calculate them analytically, finding a formulation which comprehends both the coherent and the incoherent emissions. We apply the result to the Cherenkov effect, obtaining the same conclusions derived by Askaryan, and to the geosynchrotron radiation.
Nuclear stopping power evaluated via free protons emitted in reaction Xe+Sn near fermi energy
Authors: Xing Yong-Zhong , Liu Xin-Xia , Liu Xiao-Bin , Zhang H. F. , Zheng Yu-Ming
Published: February 2017

The dissipation phenomenon has been studied by simulating the reaction [Formula: see text] with Isospin-dependent Quantum Molecular Dynamics (IQMD) model. The evolution of the isotropic ratio with bombarding energy for the free protons moving forward in the center of mass system in the final state of the reactions, drawn from the experimental measurements by INDRA collaboration, is reproduced with the model in the energy region near and slightly higher than the Fermi energy. Comparison of the data with the simulation obtained using the IQMD model in the cases of different combinations of in-medium effects in two-body collisions, i.e., medium modification of nucleon–nucleon cross-section and Pauli-blocking effect, indicates that the Pauli exclusion principle is indispensable in the microscopic model and the Pauli-blocking in binary interactions dominates the in-medium effects in the heavy-ion reactions in the energy range, even below the Fermi energy. Based on such comparisons, an energy-dependent effective factor responsible for the Pauli-blocking in the binary collisions in heavy-ion collisions in the Fermi energy domain has been extracted.
Nature of cross-talk transitions and ΔI = 1 energy staggering in signature partners of odd mass superdeformed nuclei
Authors: Khalaf A. M. , Kotb M. , Awwad T. M.
Published: February 2017

Two-way cross-talk transitions between pairs of signature partners superdeformed (SD) bands in [Formula: see text]Hg (SD2,SD3), [Formula: see text]Hg (SD3,SD4) and [Formula: see text]T1(SD1,SD2) built on the configurations [Formula: see text], respectively, are proposed. The [Formula: see text] energy staggering presented in these odd SD nuclei are investigated and parametrized by proposing two staggering functions depending on the dipole transitions linking the signature partners. These staggering functions differ from the conventional staggering functions employed in previous works which depend on the quadruple transitions within each band. For parametrization, we used the two-term formula of Bohr–Mottelson collective rotational model. The model parameters and the bandhead spins of the considered signature partners are determined by using a simulated fitting search program and the values of the adopted parameters are used to calculate transition energies [Formula: see text], rotational frequencies [Formula: see text], kinematic [Formula: see text] and dynamic [Formula: see text] moments of inertia. The calculated results agree very well with the experimental ones. The bands exhibit the usual increasing trend. Large amplitude staggering has been found in the considered three signature partner pairs in [Formula: see text]Hg and [Formula: see text]T1 nuclei.
A sharp estimate à la Calderón–Zygmund for the p-Laplacian
Authors: Brasco Lorenzo , Santambrogio Filippo
Published: February 2017

We consider local weak solutions of the Poisson equation for the [Formula: see text]-Laplace operator. We prove a higher differentiability result, under an essentially sharp condition on the right-hand side. The result comes with a local scaling invariant a priori estimate.
Hölder regularity for the gradient of the inhomogeneous parabolic normalized p-Laplacian
Authors: Attouchi Amal , Parviainen Mikko
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we study an evolution equation involving the normalized [Formula: see text]-Laplacian and a bounded continuous source term. The normalized [Formula: see text]-Laplacian is in non-divergence form and arises for example from stochastic tug-of-war games with noise. We prove local [Formula: see text] regularity for the spatial gradient of the viscosity solutions. The proof is based on an improvement of flatness and proceeds by iteration.
On Auslander–Reiten sequences for Borel–Schur algebras
Authors: Erdmann Karin , Santana Ana Paula , Yudin Ivan
Published: February 2017

We classify Borel–Schur algebras having finite representation type. We also determine Auslander–Reiten sequences for a large class of simple modules over Borel–Schur algebras. A partial information on the structure of the socles of Borel-Schur algebras is given.
Finite groups with given systems of σ-semipermutable subgroups
Authors: Hu Bin , Huang Jianhong , Skiba Alexander N.
Published: February 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a partition of the set of all primes [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] a finite group. [Formula: see text] is said to be [Formula: see text]-soluble if every chief factor [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-group for some [Formula: see text]. A set [Formula: see text] of subgroups of [Formula: see text] is said to be a complete Hall [Formula: see text]-set of [Formula: see text] if every member [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is a Hall [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] for some [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] contains exactly one Hall [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] for every [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text]. A subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is said to be [Formula: see text]-quasinormal or [Formula: see text]-permutable in [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] has a complete Hall [Formula: see text]-set [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text] and all [Formula: see text]. We obtain a new characterization of finite [Formula: see text]-soluble groups [Formula: see text] in which [Formula: see text]-permutability is a transitive relation in [Formula: see text].
On generalized power series rings with some restrictions on zero-divisors
Authors: Hashemi E. , Yazdanfar M. , Alhevaz A.
Published: February 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a ring and [Formula: see text] a strictly ordered monoid. The construction of generalized power series ring [Formula: see text] generalizes some ring constructions such as polynomial rings, group rings, power series rings and Mal’cev–Neumann construction. In this paper, for a reversible right Noetherian ring [Formula: see text] and a m.a.n.u.p. monoid [Formula: see text], it is shown that (i) [Formula: see text] is power-serieswise [Formula: see text]-McCoy, (ii) [Formula: see text] have Property (A), (iii) [Formula: see text] is right zip if and only if [Formula: see text] is right zip, (iv) [Formula: see text] is strongly AB if and only if [Formula: see text] is strongly AB. Also we study the interplay between ring-theoretical properties of a generalized power series ring [Formula: see text] and the graph-theoretical properties of its undirected zero divisor graph of [Formula: see text]. A complete characterization for the possible diameters [Formula: see text] is given exclusively in terms of the ideals of [Formula: see text]. Also, we present some examples to show that the assumption “R is right Noetherian” in our main results is not superfluous.
Insertion of units at zero products
Authors: Kim Hong Kee , Kwak Tai Keun , Lee Yang , Seo Yeonsook
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this paper is to provide useful connections between units and zero divisors, by investigating the structure of a class of rings in which Köthe’s conjecture (i.e. the sum of two nil left ideals is nil) holds. We introduce the concept of unit-IFP for the purpose, in relation with the inserting property of units at zero products. We first study the relation between unit-IFP rings and related ring properties in a kind of matrix rings which has roles in noncommutative ring theory. The Jacobson radical of the polynomial ring over a unit-IFP ring is shown to be nil. We also provide equivalent conditions to the commutativity via the unit-IFP of such matrix rings. We construct examples and counterexamples which are necessary to the naturally raised questions.
Global Dynamics of Pipes Conveying Pulsating Fluid in the Supercritical Regime
Authors: Zhou Sha , Yu Tian-Jun , Yang Xiao-Dong , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2017

Global dynamics of supercritical pipes conveying pulsating fluid considering superharmonic resonance of the second mode with 1:2 internal resonance are investigated. The governing partial differential equations in the supercritical regime are obtained based on the nontrivial equilibrium configuration of the pipes conveying fluid and then transformed into a discretized nonlinear gyroscopic system via assumed modes and Galerkin’s method. The method of multiple scales and canonical transformation are applied to reduce the equations of motion to the near-integrable Hamiltonian standard form. The energy-phase method is employed to demonstrate the existence of chaotic dynamics by identifying the existence of multi-pulse jumping orbits in the perturbed phase space. The global solutions are subsequently interpreted in terms of the physical motion of such gyroscopic system. Two types of nonlinear normal modal motion and the chaotic pattern conversion between the locked simple bidirectional traveling wave motion and the complex bidirectional traveling wave motion are discussed.
Regulations of aging time on optical properties of nano-crystalline ZnO thin films fabricated by sol–gel method
Authors: Li Jitao , Yang Dingyu , Zhu Xinghua , Sun Hui , Gao Xiuying , Wangyang Peihua
Published: February 2017

Nano-crystalline Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films on glass substrates have been fabricated by sol–gel method for different aging times. The thermal curve of the dried gel was examined and it was found that evaporation of solvent and the decomposition of the organics have completed before 250[Formula: see text]C. X-ray diffraction patterns and Atomic Force Microscope images of samples only have a small difference of microstructure. The transmittance spectra revealed high transmittance in visible region. The optical band gap of the samples remined stable (3.28[Formula: see text]eV). Also, the Urbach energy was calculated to explain the defect concentration. The Photoluminescence spectra in ultraviolet and visible regions were studied, and the decreased intensity of peaks at 387[Formula: see text]nm and the increased emissions in visible range were found. The results showed that excessive aging time can cause degeneration of optical properties of thin films.
Computer simulation of the structural phase transitions in thin ferroelectric films
Authors: Maksimova O. G. , Maksimov A. V. , Baruzdina O. S.
Published: February 2017

The influence of free surface and depolarizing field on structural phase transitions in thin ferroelectric films from an ordered state to a disordered one is investigated. The dependences of the order parameter on the distance from the free film surface are calculated. It is shown that with the presence of the depolarizing field and in its absence, the effective thickness of the surface layer depends on the temperature. Nearby the phase transition point, the thickness increases indefinitely. Calculations considering depolarizing field showed that the phase transition points for the bulk ferroelectrics and the film under given boundary conditions coincide. Also shown that in the absence of depolarizing field with mixed boundary conditions, the film thickness does not affect the order parameter, and in presence of the field, this influence is observed.
Determination of DNA Binding Behavior of FoxA1 Constructs Using a Gold Nanoparticle-Based High Throughput Assay
Authors: Aung Khin Moh Moh , Lim Michelle Gek Liang , Hong Shuzhen , Cheung Edwin , Su Xiaodi
Published: February 2017

Forkhead box protein 1 (FoxA1) is a member of the forkhead family of winged-helix transcription factors. It plays crucial roles in the development and differentiation of multiple organs and in the regulation of estrogen-stimulated genes. In this study, in order to determine the regions of FoxA1 necessary for efficient Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) binding, we cloned, expressed and purified a series of FoxA1 constructs that contain either the DNA Binding Domain (DBD), the Transcription Activation Domain (TAD), or both. We determined the DNA binding behavior of these constructs using traditional electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and a recently developed gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)-based fast screening method. We conclude that just the DBD region alone is not sufficient for protein-DNA binding activity. Amino acids flanking the upstream of the DBD region are required for maximal DNA binding activity. Through this study, we have also further validated the AuNPs assay for its generality and expanded the existing protocol for comparing the DNA binding behavior of multiple proteins of different charge properties and molecular weights.
Prominent Oncogenic Roles of EVI1 in Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Hui , Schaefer Thorsten , Konantz Martina , Braun Martin , Varga Zsuzsanna , Paczulla Anna M. , Reich Selina , Jacob Francis , Perner Sven , Moch Holger , Fehm Tanja N. , Kanz Lothar , Schulze-Osthoff Klaus , Lengerke Claudia
Published: February 2017

Overexpression of the EVI1 oncogene is associated typically with aggressive myeloid leukemia, but is also detectable in breast carcinoma where its contributions are unexplored. Analyzing a tissue microarray of 608 breast carcinoma patient specimens, we documented EVI1 overexpression in both estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) and estrogen receptor–negative (ER−) breast carcinomas. Here, we report prognostic relevance of EVI1 overexpression in triple-negative breast carcinoma but not in the HER2-positive breast carcinoma subset. In human breast cancer cells, EVI1 silencing reduced proliferation, apoptosis resistance, and tumorigenicity, effects rescued by estrogen supplementation in ER+ breast carcinoma cells. Estrogen addition restored ERK phosphorylation in EVI1-silenced cells, suggesting that EVI1 and estradiol signaling merge in MAPK activation. Conversely, EVI1 silencing had no effect on constitutive ERK activity in HER2+ breast carcinoma cells. Microarray analyses revealed G-protein–coupled receptor (GPR) signaling as a prominent EVI1 effector mechanism in breast carcinoma. Among others, the GPR54-ligand KISS1 was identified as a direct transcriptional target of EVI1, which together with other EVI1-dependent cell motility factors such as RHOJ regulated breast carcinoma cell migration. Overall, our results establish the oncogenic contributions of EVI1 in ER- and HER2-negative subsets of breast cancer. Cancer Res; 77(8); 2148–60. ©2017 AACR.
The Tumor Microenvironment at a Turning Point—Knowledge Gained Over the Last Decade, and Challenges and Opportunities Ahead: A White Paper from the NCI TME Network
Authors: DeClerck Yves A. , Pienta Kenneth J. , Woodhouse Elisa C. , Singer Dinah S. , Mohla Suresh
Published: February 2017

Over the past 10 years, the Tumor Microenvironment Network (TMEN), supported by the NCI (Bethesda, MD), has promoted collaborative research with the explicit goal of fostering multi-institutional and transdisciplinary groups that are capable of addressing complex issues involving the tumor microenvironment. The main goal of the TMEN was to generate novel information about the dynamic complexity of tumor–host interactions in different organ systems with emphasis on using human tissues and supplemented by experimental models. As this initiative comes to a close, members of the TMEN took time to examine what has been accomplished by the Network and importantly to identify the challenges and opportunities ahead. This consensus document summarizes for the broader scientific community discussions that occurred at the two final meetings of the TMEN in 2015 and 2016. Cancer Res; 77(5); 1051–9. ©2017 AACR.
The Role of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Courtney Jo-Maree , Spafford Patricia L.
Published: February 2017

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of mortality worldwide, and there is currently no treatment that can halt the progression of the disease. Over the last decade there has been increasing interest in the idea that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) may be active in COPD. Here we review the evidence for EMT in COPD as well as the current progress being made on understanding the drivers and mechanisms involved. Finally, we discuss the potential benefits that understanding EMT may bring to the field of chronic respiratory disease.
Differential Clonal Expansion in an Invading Cell Population: Clonal Advantage or Dumb Luck?
Authors: Newgreen Donald F. , Zhang Dongcheng , Cheeseman Bevan L. , Binder Benjamin J. , Landman Kerry A.
Published: February 2017

In neoplastic cell growth, clones and subclones are variable both in size and mutational spectrum. The largest of these clones are believed to represent those cells with mutations that make them the most “fit,” in a Darwinian sense, for expansion in their microenvironment. Thus, the degree of quantitative clonal expansion is regarded as being determined by innate qualitative differences between the cells that originate each clone. Here, using a combination of mathematical modelling and clonal labelling experiments applied to the developmental model system of the forming enteric nervous system, we describe how cells which are qualitatively identical may consistently produce clones of dramatically different sizes: most clones are very small while a few clones we term “superstars” contribute most of the cells to the final population. The basis of this is minor stochastic variations (“luck”) in the timing and direction of movement and proliferation of individual cells, which builds a local advantage for daughter cells that is cumulative. This has potentially important consequences. In cancers, especially before strongly selective cytotoxic therapy, the assumption that the largest clones must be the cells with deterministic proliferative ability may not always hold true. In development, the gradual loss of clonal diversity as “superstars” take over the population may erode the resilience of the system to somatic mutations, which may have occurred early in clonal growth.
The Central Nervous System of Jawless Vertebrates: Encephalization in Lampreys and Hagfishes
Authors: Salas Carlos A. , Yopak Kara E. , Lisney Thomas J. , Potter Ian C. , Collin Shaun P.
Published: February 2017

Lampreys and hagfishes are the sole surviving representatives of the early agnathan (jawless) stage in vertebrate evolution, which has previously been regarded as the least encephalized group of all vertebrates. Very little is known, however, about the extent of interspecific variation in relative brain size in these fishes, as previous studies have focused on only a few species, even though lampreys exhibit a variety of life history traits. While some species are parasitic as adults, with varying feeding behaviors, others (nonparasitic species) do not feed after completing their macrophagous freshwater larval phase. In addition, some parasitic species remain in freshwater, while others undergo an anadromous migration. On the basis of data for postmetamorphic individuals representing approximately 40% of all lamprey species, with representatives from each of the three families, the aforementioned differences in life history traits are reflected in variations in relative brain size. Across all lampreys, brain mass increases with body mass with a scaling factor or slope (α) of 0.35, which is less than those calculated for different groups of gnathostomatous (jawed) vertebrates (α = 0.43-0.62). When parasitic and nonparasitic species are analyzed separately, with phylogeny taken into account, the scaling factors of both groups (parasitic α = 0.43, nonparasitic α = 0.45) approach those of gnathostomes. The relative brain size in fully grown adults of parasitic species is, however, less than that of the adults of nonparasitic species, paralleling differences between fully grown adults and recently metamorphosed individuals of anadromous species. The average degree of encephalization is found in anadromous parasitic lampreys and might thus represent the ancestral condition for extant lampreys. These results suggest that the degree of encephalization in lampreys varies according to both life history traits and phylogenetic relationships.
The Inhibitory Effect of S-777469, a Cannabinoid Type 2 Receptor Agonist, on Skin Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Haruna Takayo , Soga Masahiko , Morioka Yasuhide , Imura Kinichi , Furue Yoko , Yamamoto Mina , Hayakawa Jun , Deguchi Masashi , Arimura Akinori , Yasui Kiyoshi
Published: February 2017

We investigated the effects of S-777469 (1-[[6-Ethyl-1-[4-fluorobenzyl]-5-methyl-2-oxo-1, 2-dihydropyridine-3-carbonyl]amino]-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid), a novel cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2) agonist, on 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNFB)-induced ear inflammation and mite antigen-induced dermatitis in mice. The oral administration of S-777469 significantly suppressed DNFB-induced ear swelling in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, S-777469 significantly alleviated mite antigen-induced atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice. A histological analysis revealed that S-777469 significantly reduced the epidermal thickness and the number of mast cells infiltrating skin lesions. We demonstrated that S-777469 inhibited mite antigen-induced eosinophil accumulation in skin lesions and an endogenous CB2 ligand, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)-induced eosinophil migration in vitro. Moreover, we confirmed that 2-AG levels significantly increased in skin lesions of mite antigen-induced dermatitis model. Together, these results suggest that S-777469 inhibits skin inflammation in mice by blocking the activities of 2-AG.
The Burden of Respiratory Disease in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants: Changes in Perinatal Care and Outcomes in a Decade in Spain
Authors: García-Muñoz Rodrigo Fermín , Losada Martínez Antonio , Elorza Fernández María Dolores , Moreno Hernando Julio , Figueras Aloy Josep , Vento Torres Máximo
Published: February 2017

Background: Advances in perinatal care have led to a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality among very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants. Much of this progress is related to the prevention and management of respiratory disease. Objectives: To evaluate changes in perinatal care and its influence on respiratory morbidity and mortality among VLBW infants in Spain in 2 consecutive periods (2002-2006 and 2007-2011). Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of data prospectively collected of all VLBW infants included in the Spanish SEN1500 network. Patients with major congenital anomalies, those who died in the delivery room (DR) and infants <230 or >346 weeks of gestational age (GA) were excluded. Results: During the study period, out of 27,205 eligible VLBW infants, 24,598 (90.4%) met inclusion criteria. The most striking and statistically significant results found in the second period were: (i) reduction in the proportion of “outborn” patients; (ii) an increase in prenatal steroid administration; (iii) enhanced non-invasive respiratory support in the DR and NICU; (iv) reduction in invasive mechanical ventilation, surfactant administration, and steroids for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Moreover, survival to hospital discharge increased (83.5 vs. 84.7%; p = 0.015); however, survival without BPD increased only among the most immature (230 to 266 weeks' GA) from 26.6 to 31.6% (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Enhanced adherence to international recommendations in perinatal care and a significant reduction in mortality were found during the second period. Survival without BPD increased only among the most immature. Further investigation is needed to optimize the strategies to prevent and manage respiratory disease in this group of patients.
Human Birth Weight and Reproductive Immunology: Testing for Interactions between Maternal and Offspring KIR and HLA-C Genes
Authors: Clark Michelle M. , Chazara Olympe , Sobel Eric M. , Gjessing Håkon K. , Magnus Per , Moffett Ashley , Sinsheimer Janet S.
Published: February 2017

Background/Aims: Maternal and offspring cell contact at the site of placentation presents a plausible setting for maternal-fetal genotype (MFG) interactions affecting fetal growth. We test hypotheses regarding killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and HLA-C MFG effects on human birth weight by extending the quantitative MFG (QMFG) test. Methods: Until recently, association testing for MFG interactions had limited applications. To improve the ability to test for these interactions, we developed the extended QMFG test, a linear mixed-effect model that can use multi-locus genotype data from families. Results: We demonstrate the extended QMFG test's statistical properties. We also show that if an offspring-only model is fit when MFG effects exist, associations can be missed or misattributed. Furthermore, imprecisely modeling the effects of both KIR and HLA-C could result in a failure to replicate if these loci's allele frequencies differ among populations. To further illustrate the extended QMFG test's advantages, we apply the extended QMFG test to a UK cohort study and the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort (MoBa) study. Conclusion: We find a significant KIR-HLA-C interaction effect on birth weight. More generally, the QMFG test can detect genetic associations that may be missed by standard genome-wide association studies for quantitative traits.
Desmoid Fibromatosis of the Abdominal Wall: Surgical Resection and Reconstruction with Biological Matrix Egis®
Authors: Tropea Saveria , Mocellin Simone , Stramare Roberto , Bonavina Maria Giuseppina , Rossi Carlo Riccardo , Rastrelli Marco
Published: February 2017

Desmoid tumor is a rare monoclonal fibroblast proliferation that is regarded as benign. The clinical management of desmoid tumors is very complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach because of the unpredictable disease course. For those cases localized in the anterior abdominal wall, symptomatic and unresponsive to medical treatment, radical resection and reconstruction with a prosthetic device are indicated. We present here a case of desmoid fibromatosis of the left anterolateral abdominal wall with a marked increase of the mass that required a large excision followed by reconstruction with biological matrix. The fact that it can be incorporated in patient tissue without a fibrotic response and that it can resist future infections, together with a very competetive price, made the new collagen matrix Egis® our first choice.
Chronic Consumption of Artificial Sweetener in Packets or Tablets and Type 2 Diabetes Risk: Evidence from the E3N-European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition Study
Authors: Fagherazzi Guy , Gusto Gaëlle , Affret Aurélie , Mancini Francesca Romana , Dow Courtney , Balkau Beverley , Clavel-Chapelon Françoise , Bonnet Fabrice , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine
Published: February 2017

Background: The influence of artificial sweeteners on metabolic diseases is controversial. Artificially sweetened beverages have been associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) but biases and reverse causation have been suspected to have influenced the observed association. In addition, it has been suggested that investigation into the relationship between the frequency and duration of the consumption of packet or tablet artificial sweeteners and T2D risk is necessary. Methods: We used data from 61,440 women in the prospective E3N-European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study, conducted between 1993 and 2011. We estimated hazards ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs of T2D risk associated with both the frequency and the duration of use of artificial sweeteners consumed in packets or tablets. Results: Compared to “never or rare” consumers of artificial sweeteners, those using them “always or almost always” had an increased risk of T2D (HR = 1.83 [95% CI 1.66-2.02] in the multivariate model [MM], HR = 1.33 [95% CI 1.20-1.47] when further adjusted for body mass index, BMI). Women consuming artificial sweeteners in packets or tablets for more than 10 years also had an increased risk of T2D compared to never or rare users (HR = 2.10 [95% CI 1.83-2.40] in the MM and HR = 1.15 [95% CI 1.00-1.33] when adjusted for BMI, respectively). Conclusions: Our data suggest that both a higher frequency and a longer consumption of artificial sweeteners in packets or tablets was associated with T2D risk, independently of major T2D risk factors, but partially mediated by adiposity. A precautionary principle should be applied to the promotion of these products that are still largely recommended as healthy sugar substitutes.
The state of free-radical oxidation and antioxidant system at the experimental acute peritonitis associated with hypothyroidism
Authors: Verba R. V. , Klishch I. M.
Published: February 2017

To study the influence of hypothyroidism on the course of free-radical processes and state of antioxidant system in rats with acute extensive peritonitis, the production of active forms of oxygen by mononuclear leukocytes, concentration of lipid hydroperoxides, TBA-active products, Schiff bases, SOD and catalase activity were determined. Simulation of extensive peritonitis with associated hypothyroidism led to the less obvious, than in euthyroid rats, increase of active forms of oxygen and lipid peroxidation products. Although the reduction of activity of enzymes of the first line of antioxidant defense (superoxide dismutase and catalase) was more evident.
Correlation analysis of gas and acid-base indices of arterial blood in the pathogenesis of experimental hepatopulmonary syndrome
Authors: Krynytska I. Ya.
Published: February 2017

The correlation analysis of indices of gas and acid-base composition of arterial blood in the pathogenesis of experimental hepatopulmonary syndrome was studied in the article. It was established a strong negative correlation between partial pressure of oxygen and AaDO2, positive moderate correlation between the plasma osmolarity and AaDO2 in animals of both experimental groups, the positive moderate correlation between the concentration of lactic acid and AaDO2 in animals with carbon tetrachloride-induced cirrhosis and strong correlation interaction between these parameters in rats the on 31st day after common bile duct ligation.
Research of hepatoprotective melatonin properties and the role of polymorphism of the geme mtnr1b in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2
Authors: Oleshchuk O. M. , Ivankiv Ya. I. , Shumska O. A.
Published: February 2017

The application of melatonin to improve the treatment of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2, including hepatoprotective properties and its effect on carbohydrate metabolism were studied. It is established the relationship between gene polymorphism MT2 receptor, namely its variants: rs1387153 and rs10830963 and levels of fasting glucose and type 2 diabetes.
Study of inhibitors for nitric oxide synthase its synthesis in tissues of rats with toxic liver damage
Authors: Yaroshenko T. Ya.
Published: February 2017

There were studied the changes of content of NO-synthase and metabolism products of nitrogen oxide in experimental hepatitis during treatment with inhibitors of its synthesis. According to the results of our research, the use of non-selective inhibitor L-NAME and selective one (1400W) eed to decrease of total activity of NO-synthase and content of nitrates and nitrites in the blood and liver of rats, but it’s significantly increased as a result of intoxication by allyl alcohol. It was determined that intensive iNOS expression and NO hyper production in toxic hepatitis, plays a negative role, whereas NO, is synthesized with constitutional NOS (generally concentrated in the endothelium of the capillaries) displayed a protective function, by improving microcirculation in the parenchyma and minimizing a toxic hepatitis.
Modern approaches to teaching bioorganic and biological chemistry in medical universities
Authors: Gerush I. V. , Grygorieva N. P. , Davydova N. V.
Published: February 2017

The application of modern methodology and techniques (methods of brainstorming, discussions, roundtables, videos demonstrations, biochemical experiments, etc.) during practical classes for getting integrated and professional competences during studying of bioorganic and biological chemistry in higher medical educational establishments, was examined.
Glycosylated Chromogranin A in Heart Failure
Authors: Ottesen Anett Hellebø , Carlson Cathrine R. , Louch William E. , Dahl Mai Britt , Sandbu Ragnhild A. , Johansen Rune Forstrøm , Jarstadmarken Hilde , Bjørås Magnar , Høiseth Arne Didrik , Brynildsen Jon , Sjaastad Ivar , Stridsberg Mats , Omland Torbjørn , Christensen Geir , Røsjø Helge
Published: February 2017

Background—

Chromogranin A (CgA) levels have previously been found to predict mortality in heart failure (HF), but currently no information is available regarding CgA processing in HF and whether the CgA fragment catestatin (CST) may directly influence cardiomyocyte function.

Methods and Results—

CgA processing was characterized in postinfarction HF mice and in patients with acute HF, and the functional role of CST was explored in experimental models. Myocardial biopsies from HF, but not sham-operated mice, demonstrated high molecular weight CgA bands. Deglycosylation treatment attenuated high molecular weight bands, induced a mobility shift, and increased shorter CgA fragments. Adjusting for established risk indices and biomarkers, circulating CgA levels were found to be associated with mortality in patients with acute HF, but not in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Low CgA-to-CST conversion was also associated with increased mortality in acute HF, thus, supporting functional relevance of impaired CgA processing in cardiovascular disease. CST was identified as a direct inhibitor of CaMKIIδ (Ca
2+
/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIδ) activity, and CST reduced CaMKIIδ-dependent phosphorylation of phospholamban and the ryanodine receptor 2. In line with CaMKIIδ inhibition, CST reduced Ca
2+
spark and wave frequency, reduced Ca
2+
spark dimensions, increased sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
content, and augmented the magnitude and kinetics of cardiomyocyte Ca
2+
transients and contractions.

Conclusions—

CgA-to-CST conversion in HF is impaired because of hyperglycosylation, which is associated with clinical outcomes in acute HF. The mechanism for increased mortality may be dysregulated cardiomyocyte Ca
2+
handling because of reduced CaMKIIδ inhibition.
Ideal Cardiovascular Health, Cardiovascular Remodeling, and Heart Failure in Blacks
Authors: Spahillari Aferdita , Talegawkar Sameera , Correa Adolfo , Carr J. Jeffrey , Terry James G. , Lima João , Freedman Jane E. , Das Saumya , Kociol Robb , de Ferranti Sarah , Mohebali Donya , Mwasongwe Stanford , Tucker Katherine L. , Murthy Venkatesh L. , Shah Ravi V.
Published: February 2017

Background—

The lifetime risk of heart failure (HF) is higher in the black population than in other racial groups in the United States.

Methods and Results—

We measured the Life’s Simple 7 ideal cardiovascular health metrics in 4195 blacks in the JHS (Jackson Heart Study; 2000–2004). We evaluated the association of Simple 7 metrics with incident HF and left ventricular structure and function by cardiac magnetic resonance (n=1188). Mean age at baseline was 54.4 years (65% women). Relative to 0 to 2 Simple 7 factors, blacks with 3 factors had 47% lower incident HF risk (hazard ratio [HR], 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.39–0.73;
P
<0.0001); and those with ≥4 factors had 61% lower HF risk (HR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.24–0.64;
P
=0.0002). Higher blood pressure (HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.28–4.20;
P
=0.005), physical inactivity (HR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.07–2.55;
P
=0.02), smoking (HR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.43–2.91;
P
<0.0001), and impaired glucose control (HR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.34–2.29;
P
<0.0001) were associated with incident HF. The age-/sex-adjusted population attributable risk for these Simple 7 metrics combined was 37.1%. Achievement of ideal blood pressure, ideal body mass index, ideal glucose control, and nonsmoking was associated with less likelihood of adverse cardiac remodeling by cardiac magnetic resonance.

Conclusions—

Cardiovascular risk factors in midlife (specifically elevated blood pressure, physical inactivity, smoking, and poor glucose control) are associated with incident HF in blacks and represent targets for intensified HF prevention.
Barriers for conservation: mitigating the impact on amphibians and reptiles by water cisterns in arid environments
Authors: Pleguezuelos Juan M. , García-Cardenete Luis , Caro Jesús , Feriche Mónica , Pérez-García María T. , Santos Xavier , Sicilia Marisa , Fahd Soumia
Published: February 2017

Anthropogenic infrastructures are one of the major threats to biodiversity. In the north-western Sahara shepherds are increasingly building water cisterns of reinforced concrete for watering livestock. These infrastructures attract desert fauna and act as indiscriminate death traps for the amphibians and reptiles (herps) in the surrounding habitats. Here we propose an on-site, cost-effective management measure. We selected two groups of 36 cisterns, managed a group by covering the lateral openings with wire mesh (managed cistern), leaving the other group unmanaged (control cistern). Managed cisterns trapped fewer species, fewer individuals (one third), and individuals of smaller body size and of less conservation concern than did control cisterns. In a multivariate approach by Generalized Mixed Models, the best models explaining the number of species and individuals of herps trapped within cisterns included as the predictor only the management condition, with a trend for higher values in control cisterns.
The European Union’s New Generation of International Investment Agreements and Its Implications for the Protection of Intellectual Property Rights
Authors: Fina Siegfried , Lentner Gabriel M.
Published: February 2017

This article examines the potential challenges for the protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs) through International Investment Agreements (IIAs) in light of the new generation of IIAs negotiated by the European Union (EU). It argues that it will be difficult in practice to succeed in enforcing IPRs through IIAs. The article will do so by examining in detail the criteria international tribunals have required in order to consider IPRs covered investments, and then analyzing the key protection standards considering the interaction between investment treaties and the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). Because negotiators have reacted to the legal issues raised in this context with new and innovative treaty language, this article will further examine these issues based on the EU’s IIAs. Their drafting practice should be taken as an indication that existing IIAs should be interpreted rather narrowly in respect of the protection of IPRs.
Notes on the genera Antinia Pascoe, 1871 and Dermatodina Faust, 1895 with description of D. boroveci sp. nov. from Thailand (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Entiminae)
Authors: KANIA JAROSŁAW , PIWNIK AGATA
Published: February 2017

The generic status of Dermatodina Faust, 1895 is restored and characters distinguishing this genus from Antinia Pascoe, 1871 are discussed. A new species, Dermatodina boroveci sp. nov., is described from Thailand. A checklist of species placed within the two genera is provided.
Credible Research Designs for Minimum Wage Studies
Authors: Allegretto Sylvia , Dube Arindrajit , Reich Michael , Zipperer Ben
Published: February 2017

The authors assess the critique by Neumark, Salas, and Wascher (2014) of minimum wage studies that found small effects on teen employment. Data from 1979 to 2014 contradict NSW; the authors show that the disemployment suggested by a model assuming parallel trends across U.S. states mostly reflects differential pre-existing trends. A data-driven LASSO procedure that optimally corrects for state trends produces a small employment elasticity (–0.01). Even a highly sparse model rules out substantial disemployment effects, contrary to NSW’s claim that the authors discard too much information. Synthetic controls do place more weight on nearby states—confirming the value of regional controls—and generate an elasticity of −0.04. A similar elasticity (−0.06) obtains from a design comparing contiguous border counties, which the authors show to be good controls. NSW’s preferred matching estimates mix treatment and control units, obtain poor matches, and find the highest employment declines where the relative minimum wage falls. These findings refute NSW’s key claims.
CD73 Controls Extracellular Adenosine Generation in the Trigeminal Nociceptive Nerves
Authors: Liu X. , Ma L. , Zhang S. , Ren Y. , Dirksen R.T.
Published: February 2017

Purinergic signaling is involved in pain generation and modulation in the nociceptive sensory nervous system. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) induces pain via activation of ionotropic P2X receptors while adenosine mediates analgesia via activation of metabotropic P1 receptors. These purinergic signaling are determined by ecto-nucleotidases that control ATP degradation and adenosine generation. Using enzymatic histochemistry, we detected ecto-AMPase activity in dental pulp, trigeminal ganglia (TG) neurons, and their nerve fibers. Using immunofluorescence staining, we confirmed the expression of ecto-5′-nucleotidase (CD73) in trigeminal nociceptive neurons and their axonal fibers, including the nociceptive nerve fibers projecting into the brainstem. In addition, we detected the existence of CD73 and ecto-AMPase activity in the nociceptive lamina of the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (TSNC) in the brainstem. Furthermore, we demonstrated that incubation with specific anti-CD73 serum significantly reduced the ecto-AMPase activity in the nociceptive lamina in the brainstem. Our results indicate that CD73 might participate in nociceptive modulation by affecting extracellular adenosine generation in the trigeminal nociceptive pathway. Disruption of TG neuronal ecto-nucleotidase expression and axonal terminal localization under certain circumstances such as chronic inflammation, oxidant stress, local constriction, and injury in trigeminal nerves may contribute to the pathogenesis of orofacial neuropathic pain.
Suboccipital puncture for cerebrospinal fluid in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: GeretschläGer E. , Russ H. , Mihatsch W. , Przuntek H.
Published: February 2017

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can be obtained routinely from the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) by suboccipital puncture. One field of research in which this method is applied is the detection of changes in the biogenic amine metabolism in CSF. The puncture technique is simple and rapid and does not injure the experimental animal.
Colonic impaction in guineapigs fed a chemically defined diet: a case report
Authors: Gibson S. V. , Wagner J. E. , Typpo J. T. , Link J. E. , Kelley S. T. , Cornwell S. E. , Mcdonald P. S.
Published: February 2017

Pathogen-free female Hartley guineapigs were divided into four diet groups to determine optimal nitrogen requirements for growth, pregnancy and lactation. Three chemically defined test diets varying in total nitrogen were compared with commercial guineapig feed. Within 13 days, 24 of 78 animals from the three test diet groups died or required euthanasia. Affected guineapigs were depressed, lost weight and had distended abdomens. Distension, impaction and, in most cases, rupture of the spiral of the ascending colon and subsequent peritonitis were observed at necropsy. Husbandry changes which resulted in a decreased incidence of impactions included increased acclimatization time on commercial feed post-shipping, decreased animal density per cage and cessation of water medication with oxytetracycline.
A method for the routine observation of sexual behaviour in rats
Authors: Mercier O. , Perraud J. , Stadler J.
Published: February 2017

In seeking a method for the routine observation of copulatory behaviour in rats we compared the use of a standard rectangular Makrolon cage, commonly used in toxicology studies, with a Plexiglas cylinder that provided 2·5 times more floor area. The cylinder resulted in a much higher incidence of copulation, either once or for multiple series, within 30 min. This was not affected by whether oestrus was natural or induced. Using the cylinder and 4 h observation periods, we found that the dark phase of a 12–12 h inverse light cycle resulted in many more copulations than occurred during the light phase of a natural cycle. The incidence increased from the first to the second to the last 4 h of the dark phase. We found that placing a virgin receptive female and a naïve male together in a Plexiglas cylinder for 1 h towards the end of the dark phase is a useful tool in reproductive toxicology studies in which it is important to know the precise time of insemination.
The Organizational Voice
Authors: De Waele Aurélie , Claeys An-Sofie , Cauberghe Verolien
Published: February 2017

Research on crisis communication has mainly focused on verbal aspects of organizational responses. However, the nonverbal cues of the organizational spokesperson communicating about the crisis may also influence stakeholders’ perceptions. This study examines the impact of two vocal cues, voice pitch and speech rate. In addition, the study examines how these cues affect perceptions of organizations depending on the message’s verbal content. A 2 (voice pitch: low vs. high) × 2 (speech rate: slow vs. fast) × 2 (crisis response strategy: deny vs. rebuild) between-subjects experimental design was conducted. Results show that voice pitch and speech rate affected postcrisis reputation. However, these vocal cues affected perceptions only when the organization applied a rebuild strategy (i.e., apology) and not in the case of a deny strategy. This interaction between verbal and vocal cues was partly mediated by vocal attractiveness.
A Rehabilitative Justice Pathway for War-Traumatized Offenders Caught in the Military Misconduct Catch-22
Authors: Seamone Evan , Sreenivasan Shoba , McGuire James , Smee Dan , Clark Sean , Dow Daniel
Published: February 2017

The United States and Canada, among others, have recognized that “misconduct stress behaviors” can be a “hidden” by-product of war-zone deployments. The American military’s paradigm of punishment over treatment creates a “military misconduct Catch-22,” in which the service member’s treatment need is identified as a result of, or only after, violations of military law. Civilian society then bears the justice, familial, and social costs of the military’s failure to address combat stress–based misconduct. As an alternative to existing punitive military pathways, we propose a rehabilitative justice pathway that builds on the successes of civilian criminal justice mental health courts—to be implemented during active duty service, before separation from the Armed Forces. The approach, predicated on the circumstances of each case, promotes resilience, honorable discharge, and successful reintegration of service members into society.