bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha/delta agonist GFT505 exerts anti-diabetic effects in db/db mice without peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma–associated adverse cardiac effects
Authors: Hanf Rémy , Millatt Lesley J , Cariou Bertrand , Noel Benoit , Rigou Géraldine , Delataille Philippe , Daix Valérie , Hum Dean W , Staels Bart
Published: September 2014

We report here the efficacy and safety of GFT505, a novel liver-targeted peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha/delta (PPARα/δ) agonist, in the db/ db mouse model of diabetes. Mice were treated with vehicle, GFT505, PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone or dual-PPARα/γ agonist aleglitazar for up to 8 weeks. All compounds comparably reduced fasting glycaemia and HbA1c and improved insulin sensitivity. The glucose-lowering effect of GFT505 was associated with decreased hepatic gluconeogenesis, correlating with reduced expression of gluconeogenic genes. In contrast with the PPARγ-activating drugs, treatment with GFT505 did not affect heart weight and did not increase plasma adiponectin concentrations. This absence of cardiac effects of GFT505 was confirmed after 12 months of administration in cynomolgus monkeys, by the absence of echocardiographic and histological findings. Moreover, long-term GFT505 administration to monkeys induced no change in haematological parameters or in bone marrow differential cell counts. Compared to PPARγ-activating drugs, the dual-PPARα/δ agonist GFT505 therefore shows an improved benefit/risk ratio, treating multiple features of type 2 diabetes without inducing the cardiac side-effects associated with PPARγ activation.
Caffeine consumption does not have an effect on digital microvascular perfusion assessed by laser doppler imaging on healthy volunteers: a pilot study
Authors: Knight R. , Pagkalos J. , Timmons C. , Jose R.
Published: September 2014

Caffeine is one of the most commonly consumed pharmacologically active ingredients in the Western world. It is postulated to cause peripheral vasoconstriction and decreased digital blood flow. As a result, many hand surgeons forbid caffeine consumption post-operatively by patients undergoing replantation surgery for fear of compromising healing. We hypothesized that caffeine has no effect on digital microvascular perfusion. Healthy volunteers were recruited and digital microperfusion was assessed using laser Doppler probes attached to the finger pulp, both before and after ingestion of 100 mg of caffeine. A total of 34 patients were included in the final study. The mean flow before the consumption of caffeine was 226.15 PU. The mean flow following the consumption of caffeine was 197.7 PU. This decrease was not statistically significant. This study revealed no decrease in digital blood flow following the ingestion of 100 mg of caffeine by healthy volunteers, as measured by laser Doppler flow monitoring.

Level of Evidence: 3
Inhibition of serotonin transporter expression by C/EBPβ in LPS-activated macrophage cells (HD11)
Authors: Zimmermann Katrin , van Phi Valerie D , Brase Angela , Phi-van Loc
Published: September 2014

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) transporter (5-HTT) is involved in inflammation and the stress response. In this study, we examined the regulation of 5-HTT expression in macrophage HD11 cells in response to bacterial LPS. Long-term exposure of cells to LPS (6–18 h) produced a decrease in 5-HTT mRNA expression. Accordingly, reduced 5-HTT activity measured by 5-HT uptake was also observed in LPS-treated HD11 cells. Moreover, LPS treatment, as well as co-transfection with an expression vector encoding the chicken CCAAT/enhancer binding protein beta (C/EBPβ), resulted in inhibition of 5-HTT promoter activity. Indeed, sequence analysis revealed several C/EBPβ binding motifs in the upstream region of the 5-HTT gene, which specifically interacted with C/EBPβ both in an in vitro band shift assay and in living HD11 cells. The C/EBPβ binding was activated in cells treated with LPS. The role of C/EBPβ in LPS inhibition of 5-HTT expression was further confirmed by small interfering RNA interference, which demonstrated that knockdown of endogenous C/EBPβ attenuated the inhibition of 5-HTT expression in LPS-treated cells. Taken together, the results suggest that C/EBPβ plays a critical role in regulating the 5-HTT gene in macrophages in response to pro-inflammatory stimuli.
MyD88-mediated TLR signaling protects against acute rotavirus infection while inflammasome cytokines direct Ab response
Authors: Uchiyama Robin , Chassaing Benoit , Zhang Benyue , Gewirtz Andrew T
Published: September 2014

Rotavirus (RV) infects small intestinal epithelial cells, inducing severe diarrhea in children, resulting in over 500,000 deaths annually. Relatively little is known about how innate immunity contains acute infection and drives adaptive immune responses that afford complete clearance of RV and protection against future infection. Hence, we examined the consequence of the absence of MyD88, known to be central to innate immunity, in a mouse model of RV infection. The absence of MyD88, but not combined blockade of IL-1β and IL-18 signaling, resulted in greater infectivity, as reflected by levels of RV in feces, intestinal lysates and viremia. Such increased RV levels correlated with an increase in incidence and duration of diarrhea. Loss of MyD88 also impaired humoral immunity to RV. Specifically, MyD88 knockout generated less RV-specific IgA and exhibited profoundly reduced RV-specific IgG2c/IgG1 ratios suggesting that MyD88 signaling drives RV-induced Th1 responses. A study of MyD88 bone marrow chimeras indicated that MyD88-dependent control of acute RV infection was mediated by both hemopoietic and non-hemopoietic cells, while generation of RV-specific humoral immunity was driven by MyD88 signaling in hemopoietic cells, which reflected the loss of IL-1β and IL-18 expression by these cells. Thus, TLR signaling and inflammasome cytokines drive innate and adaptive immunity to RV.
Medial Malleolar Osteotomy and Osteochondral Autograft Transfer for Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Distal Tibial Plafond
Authors: Wunning Jeffrey , Allen-Wilson Nicole , Horton Elizabeth , Sharpe Jonathan
Published: September 2014

The literature on the surgical treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the distal tibial plafond is significantly limited. The purpose of this case study is to present a novel surgical technique to repair osteochondritis dissecans of the distal medial tibial plafond. A retrospective chart and radiographic review of a 15-year-old male was performed with a 24-month follow-up along with a review of the literature. A right angled medial malleolar osteotomy provides adequate exposure, width, and depth of the medial distal tibial plafond allowing for the successful transfer of osteochondral autograft plugs.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case report
Bone density changes in premature ovarian insufficiency patients who have had term pregnancies
Authors: Velasco Mariana , Holloway Debra , Rymer Janice
Published: September 2014

Premature ovarian insufficiency affects 1% of women under the age of 40 and is associated with a hypoestrogenic state, potentially leading to multiple comorbidities including reduced bone density and fertility. An unpredictable ovarian function is observed in 50% of patients with 5–10% being able to achieve a pregnancy. Longitudinal studies have shown a temporary decline in bone mineral density of up to 5% during pregnancy and lactation in healthy women, with the loss of bone density post-partum being proportional to the period of breastfeeding. Effects of pregnancy in women with premature ovarian insufficiency have not been widely documented. Nevertheless, a lower bone mineral density baseline has been observed pre-conceptually, associated with both the hypoestrogenic state of the condition and the possibility that premature ovarian insufficiency was developed prior to achieving peak bone mass. This may suggest that breastfeeding could cause further deterioration in bone mineral density that may not be easy to recover from due to the reduced baseline levels.
Recovery-focused cognitive–behavioural therapy for recent-onset bipolar disorder: Randomised controlled pilot trial
Authors: Jones Steven H. , Smith Gina , Mulligan Lee D. , Lobban Fiona , Law Heather , Dunn Graham , Welford Mary , Kelly James , Mulligan John , Morrison Anthony P.
Published: September 2014

Background

Despite evidence for the effectiveness of structured psychological therapies for bipolar disorder no psychological interventions have been specifically designed to enhance personal recovery for individuals with recent-onset bipolar disorder.

Aims

A pilot study to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a new intervention, recovery-focused cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT), designed in collaboration with individuals with recent-onset bipolar disorder intended to improve clinical and personal recovery outcomes.

Method

A single, blind randomised controlled trial compared treatment as usual (TAU) with recovery-focused CBT plus TAU (n= 67).

Results

Recruitment and follow-up rates within 10% of pre-planned targets to 12-month follow-up were achieved. An average of 14.15 h (s.d. = 4.21) of recovery-focused CBT were attended out of a potential maximum of 18 h. Compared with TAU, recovery-focused CBT significantly improved personal recovery up to 12-month follow-up (Bipolar Recovery Questionnaire mean score 310.87, 95% CI 75.00–546.74 (s.e. = 120.34),P= 0.010,d=0.62) and increased time to any mood relapse during up to 15 months follow-up (χ2= 7.64,P<0.006, estimated hazard ratio (HR) = 0.38, 95% CI 0.18–0.78). Groups did not differ with respect to medication adherence.

Conclusions

Recovery-focused CBT seems promising with respect to feasibility and potential clinical effectiveness. Clinical- and cost-effectiveness now need to be reliably estimated in a definitive trial.
Hyperactivation of L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in C. elegans striated muscle can result from point mutations in the IS6 or the IIIS4 segment of the α1 subunit.
Authors: Lainé Viviane , Ségor Jean Rony , Zhan Hong , Bessereau Jean-Louis , Jospin Maelle
Published: September 2014

Several human diseases, including hypokalemic periodic paralysis and Timothy syndrome, are caused by mutations in voltage-gated calcium channels. The effects of these mutations are not always well understood, partially because of difficulties in expressing these channels in heterologous systems. The use of C. elegans could be an alternative approach to determine the effects of mutations on voltage-gated calcium channel function since (i) all the main types of voltage-gated calcium channels are found in C. elegans, (ii) a large panel of mutations already exists, and (iii) efficient genetic tools are available to engineer customized mutations in any gene. In this study, we characterize the effects of two gain-of-function mutations in egl-19, which encodes the L-type calcium channel α1 subunit. One of these mutations, ad695, leads to the replacement of a hydrophobic residue in the IIIS4 segment. The other mutation, n2368, changes a conserved glycine of IS6 segment; this mutation has been identified in Timothy syndrome patients. We show that both egl-19(gain-of-function) mutants have defects in locomotion and morphology that are linked to higher muscle tone. Using in situ electrophysiological approaches in striated muscle cells, we provide evidence that this high muscle tone is due to a shift of the voltage-dependency towards negative potentials, associated with a decrease of the inactivation rate of the L-type Ca2+ current. Moreover, we show that the maximal conductance of the Ca2+ current is decreased in the strongest mutant egl-19(n2368), and that this decrease is correlated with a mislocalization of the channel.
The development of pathogen resistance in Daphnia magna: implications for disease spread in age-structured populations
Authors: Garbutt Jennie S. , O'Donghue Anna J.P. , McTaggart Seanna J. , Wilson Philip J. , Little Tom J.
Published: September 2014

Immunity in vertebrates is well-established to develop with time, but the ontogeny of defense in invertebrates is markedly less studied. Yet, age-specific capacity for defense against pathogens, coupled with age-structure in populations, has widespread implications for disease spread. Thus, we sought to determine the susceptibility of hosts of different ages in an experimental invertebrate host-pathogen system. In a series of experiments, we show that the ability of Daphnia magna to resist its natural bacterial pathogen Pasteuria ramosa changes with host age. Clonal differences make it difficult to draw general conclusions, but the majority of observations indicate that resistance increases early in the life of D. magna, consistent with the idea that the defense system develops with time. Subsequently, resistance tends to decline, at about the time when a daphnid would be most heavily investing in reproduction. Because many ecological factors influence the age structure of Daphnia populations, our results highlight a broad mechanism by which ecological context can affect disease epidemiology. We also showed that a previously observed protective effect of restricted maternal food persists throughout the entire juvenile period, and that the protective effect of prior treatment with a small dose of the pathogen (“priming”) persists for seven days, observations that reinforce the idea that immunity in D. magna can change over time. Together, our experiments lead us to conclude that invertebrate defense capabilities have an ontogeny that merits consideration both with respect to their immune systems and the epidemic spread of infection.
Generowanie obcości, czyli recenzja współczesnej polskiej szkoły
Authors: Stanek Bartosz
Published: September 2014

The article suggests the need for education, which is free of indoctrination and imposition of authority. Changes that occurred in the Polish educational system during last twenty five years created a subtle form of indoctrination. In such situation an ethical education becomes especially necessary to develop in pupils critical thinking and shape the humanistic attitude.
Obszary aksjologiczne we współczesnych organizacjach
Authors: Wojewódzki Tadeusz
Published: September 2014

Many problems of contemporary organizations originate in the area of axiology. In management practice, however, the problem of values is often reduced to stimulus-motivation of behavior and does not exceed the paradigm of socio-technical effectiveness. This is why strictly axiological problems are not identified and recognized as axiological but are often referred to in terms of their technical or economic consequences. In result, management practice deals rather with effects than actual causes of experienced problems. From the point of view of methodology of decision-making such state-of-affairs requires intervention. There are at least two ways to recommend changes with respect to such situation. First one, direct way, involves promoting axiological reflection among managers. Second one, the indirect, seeks to stimulate axiological consciousness through management consulting products that are built on essential axiological theory. The following paper focuses on the second of above mentioned ways and discusses particular consulting product called MSE™. On the one hand, the cognitive benefits of application of the MSE™ consist in implementation and validation of theory of integrated humanities in organizational context. Practical benefits, on the other hand, rely on opportunities emerging from MSE™ that allow for diagnosis of intellectual mental infrastructure of contemporary organizations and changes recommendation resulting therefrom.
Physicochemical Properties of Chilled Abalone as Influenced by Washing Pretreatment in Citric Acid Combined with High Pressure Processing
Authors: Chun Ji-Yeon , Jo Yeon-Ji , Jung Kyeong-Hun , Choi Mi-Jung , Min Sang-Gi , Hong Geun-Pyo
Published: September 2014

Citric acid pretreatment (2% and 4% citric acid) and high pressure processing (200–400 MPa for 3 min) were conducted to elucidate quality characteristics and shelf life of abalone during chilled storage. Physicochemical properties, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), and total viable count (TVC) were used as indicators of quality and the shelf life of abalone. Citric acid pretreatment caused a decrease in pH and lightness, and 4% citric acid pretreatment exhibited a positive effect on TVB-N and TVC. Pressurization suppressed the formation of TVB-N and the growth of TVC in abalone. However, excessive modification in physicochemical properties of abalone resulted from processing at a pressure higher than 300 MPa. To achieve microbial inactivation without severe modification in abalone quality, citric acid pretreatment with high pressure processing offered a potential advantage in maintaining characteristics of chilled abalone during prolonged storage period.
Moisture Sorption Isotherms, Isosteric Heat of Sorption and Glass Transition Temperature of Murtilla (Ugni molinaeT.) Berry
Authors: Ah-Hen Kong S. , Lemus-Mondaca Roberto , Mathias-Rettig Karen A. , Vega-Gálvez Antonio , López Jessica
Published: September 2014

Adsorption and desorption isotherms of fresh and dried murtilla (Ugni molinaeTurcz) berries were determined at 20, 40 and 60°C using a gravimetric technique. The experimental data obtained were fitted to eight models, namely GAB, BET, Henderson, Caurie, Smith, Oswin, Halsey and Iglesias–Chirife. A non-linear least square regression analysis was used to evaluate the models. The GAB model best fitted the experimental data. Isosteric heat of sorption was determined from the equilibrium sorption data using the Clausius–Clapeyron equation and was found to decrease exponentially with increasing moisture content. The enthalpy–entropy compensation theory applied to the sorption isotherms indicated an enthalpy controlled sorption process. Glass transition temperature of murtilla was determined by differential scanning calorimetry and modelled as a function of moisture content by the Gordon–Taylor equation and as function of water activity by Roos and Khalloufi models, which proved to be excellent tools for predicting glass transition of murtilla.
Marangoni Convection Flow and Heat Transfer of Power Law Nanofluids Driven by Temperature Gradient with Modified Fourier's Law
Authors: Lin Yan-Hai , Zheng Lian-Cun , Zhang Jun-Hong
Published: September 2014

We present a research for Marangoni convection heat transfer in power law nanofluids driven by temperature gradient. Four types of nanoparticles, namely Cu, Al2O3, CuO and TiO2 are considered by using power law CMC-water as a base fluid. The effects of power law viscosity on temperature field are taken into account by assuming that the temperature field is similar to the velocity field and the surface tension is assumed a quadratic function of the temperature. The governing partial differential equations are formulated and similarity solutions are obtained numerically using shooting method. The effects of the solid volume fraction, the Power law index and the Marangoni parameter on the velocity and temperature fields are analyzed and discussed in detail.
Imaging the electro-kinetic response of biological tissues with phase-resolved optical coherence tomography
Authors: Demidov Valentin , Toronov Vladislav , Xu Yuan , Vuong Barry , Sun Carry , Yang Victor , Vitkin Alex
Published: September 2014

In this study, the electro-kinetic phenomena (EKP) induced in biological tissue by external electric field, while not directly visible in optical coherence tomography (OCT) images, were detected by analyzing their textural speckle features. During application of a low-frequency electric field to the tissue, speckle patterns changed their brightness and shape depending on the local tissue EKP. Since intensities of OCT image speckle patterns were analyzed and discussed in our previous publications, this work is mainly focused on OCT signal phase analysis. The algorithm for extracting local spatial phase variations from unwrapped phases is introduced. The detection of electrically induced optical changes manifest in OCT phase images shows promise for monitoring the fixed charge density changes within tissues through their electro-kinetic responses. This approach may help in the identification and characterization of morphology and function of healthy and pathologic tissues.
Extreme phenotypic variability of thyroid dysgenesis in six new cases of congenital hypothyroidism due to PAX8 gene loss-of-function mutations
Authors: Ramos H E , Carré A , Chevrier L , Szinnai G , Tron E , Cerqueira T L O , Léger J , Cabrol S , Puel O , Queinnec C , De Roux N , Guillot L , Castanet M , Polak M
Published: September 2014

Context

Within the last two decades, heterozygous loss-of-function PAX8 mutations have been reported in patients with a wide degree of thyroid gland dysfunction and growth despite the presence of identical mutations.

Objectives

To search for PAX8 mutations in a cohort of patients with congenital hypothyroidism (CH) and various types of thyroid gland defects.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a cohort of patients.

Setting

The French neonatal screening program was used for recruiting patients.

Patients

A total of 118 patients with CH, including 45 with familial and 73 with sporadic diseases, were included in this study. The thyroid gland was normal in 23 patients had hypoplasia, 25 had hemithyroid agenesis, 21 had athyreosis, and 21 had ectopy.

Results

We found four different PAX8 mutations (p.R31C, p.R31H, p.R108X, and p.I47T) in ten patients (six patients with CH and four family members), two with sporadic and eight with familial diseases. Imaging studies performed in the index cases showed ectopic thyroid gland (n=2), hypoplasia (n=2), eutopic lobar asymmetry (n=1), and eutopic gland compatible with dyshormonogenesis (n=1). The previously reported p.R31C and the novel p.I47T PAX8 mutations are devoid of activity.

Conclusion

Four different PAX8 mutations were detected in six index patients with CH (ten total subjects). The p.R31C, p.R31H, and p.R108X mutations have been reported. The novel p.I47T PAX8 mutation presented loss of function leading to CH. Thyroid ectopy was observed in two cases of PAX8 (p.R31H) mutation, a finding that has not been reported previously. We observed a high inter-individual and intra-familial variability of the phenotype in PAX8 mutations, underlining that population genetic studies for CH should include patients with various clinical presentations.
LiMBO3 (M=Fe, Mn): Potential Cathode for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Allen Jan L. , Xu Kang , Zhang Sam S. , Jow T. Richard
Published: September 2014

Recently discovered borates, LiMBO3 (M=Fe, Mn), share similarities with LiFe(Mn)PO4. They are polyanion structures, contain extractable lithium and suffer from low electronic conductivity. They are attractive to replace expensive, less abundant redox metals in current use in cathodes with environmentally friendly iron or manganese. Phosphate or borate groups adjacent to the redox active metal increase the voltage of the redox couple through an inductive effect. The LiFeBO3 discharge curve shows a pseudo-plateau around 2.6 V for the Fe(II) / Fe(III) couple. This study brings to bear techniques to improve electrode conductivity to produce LiMBO3 composite electrodes thus allowing access to some of the high, theoretical specific capacity. At low current, up to 70 percent of lithium could be extracted from LiFeBO3 that was prepared in the presence of high surface area, highly electrically conductive carbon black. Attempts to improve the cathode properties of LiMnBO3 were less successful.
Water and sanitation in Brazil: the public–private pendulum
Authors: Heller Leo , Rezende Sonaly Cristina , Cairncross Sandy
Published: September 2014

The institutional arrangements for management of water supply and sanitation in Brazil result from the sector's long history. Initially, British capital was involved, but by the early twentieth century most of the infrastructure was in public hands. Public health engineering was originally closely allied with public health, but gradually municipal engineering diverged from the health sector and the municipalities began building their own water and sewerage systems. Many municipalities have retained control. The figures show significant progress in the past two decades, increasing WSS coverage. However, more than half the rural population still lack improved sanitation facilities, a large proportion of systems require improvements, and the global figures also conceal substantial geographical and socioeconomic disparities. Brazil is seeing a new phenomenon; private capital buys shares in publicly owned water and sewerage companies and forms joint enterprises with them to seek concessions. It blurs the distinction between public and private, and could blur the vision of the inexperienced and under-resourced regulatory bodies. The federal government recently approved a new national plan for water and sanitation. The last one determined the course of the sector for more than 20 years. Time will tell whether this one is as influential.
Spatial Response of Epilithic Diatom Communities to Downstream Nutrient Increases
Authors: Schuch Marilia , Oliveira Maria Angelica , Lobo Eduardo A.
Published: September 2014

To monitor water quality and investigate relationships between downstream nutrient increases and diatom communities in the Pardo River Basin, Brazil, water and diatom samples were collected between 2005 and 2009. There were significant differences in diatom community composition among all river zones, with the greatest differences found between the upper and lower reaches. Significant changes were detected in relative abundances of diatom species and spatial structuring was evident. Dissolved oxygen, phosphates, turbidity, Eicherichia coli, and total dissolved solids were the most important variables shaping diatom communities, characterizing an organic pollution and eutrophication gradient. However, the hypothesis of sensitive species prevailing upstream and their gradual downstream replacement for more tolerant species was not confirmed because shifts in relative abundances of the same group of species in both the upper and lower reaches of the rivers were identified.
The Role of Beliefs and Motivation in Asynchronous Online Learning in College-Level Classes
Authors: Xie Kui , Huang Kun
Published: September 2014

Epistemic and learning beliefs were found to affect college students' cognitive engagement and study strategies, as well as motivation in classroom settings. However, the relationships between epistemic and learning beliefs, motivation, learning perception, and students' actual learning participation in asynchronous online settings have been under-studied and under-theorized. In this study, 132 students participated in collaborative learning activities through asynchronous online discussions in a college-level online course. The results from correlation analysis and structural equation modeling indicate that epistemic and learning beliefs have significant effects on students' learning participation and perceived learning, through the mediation of achievement goals. The findings provide theoretical and practical implications for the design of online learning.
Online-BSEE (Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering): An Asynchronous Online Electrical Engineering Degree Program with Laboratory
Authors: Tang Wendy , Westgate Charles , Liu Pao-Lo , Gouzman Michael
Published: September 2014

The Online Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering is a collaborative effort among three University Centers at SUNY (State University of New York), namely Stony Brook, Binghamton, and Buffalo. The program delivers the complete electrical engineering curriculum at the bachelor level to students online and asynchronously. Students, however, take the basic mathematics and science courses and general education courses elsewhere (online or at local institutions). It is one of the first such programs nationwide. More specifically, online electronic laboratory courses are delivered online with students performing the same experiments as those in traditional offerings. This is made possible via innovative use of technology. Further, through insights developed in the initial offering, a new laboratory kit is being designed. Finally, some of our online lectures developed in the program are also being used to supplement and enrich on-campus offerings, hence creating a win-win approach.
Utilizing Videoconferencing Technology to Instruct Remote Non-Traditional Teacher Education Students
Authors: Aldemir Jale , Ardley Jillian
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine if non-traditional early childhood college students in 2 satellite locations that were assigned to the same course could benefit from the instruction provided by 2 sites' faculty who are co-teaching during a televised instruction. Data analysis through student and instructor surveys and instructors' weekly logs revealed the following: 1) students from different locations of the college were able to connect with other non-traditional students who were in the same position in their college via videoconferencing technology; 2) instructors participating and instructing the same course in different sites had a chance to connect with a colleague in another site, share different pedagogical approaches to teaching non-traditional college students, and form collegiality; and 3) problems (e.g., inadequate audio and relay of pictures, slow network speed) in videoconferencing equipment and connections made communicating through videoconferencing technology very hard for the participants and the confidence level to be instructed through videoconferencing technology remained low among students. Implications to improve the dissemination of this type of technology among university remote locations have been discussed.
A Comparison of Learning Technologies for Teaching Spacecraft Software Development
Authors: Straub Jeremy
Published: September 2014

The development of software for spacecraft represents a particular challenge and is, in many ways, a worst case scenario from a design perspective. Spacecraft software must be “bulletproof” and operate for extended periods of time without user intervention. If the software fails, it cannot be manually serviced. Software failure may result in mission degradation or complete spacecraft loss. This article considers how learning technologies can be used to aid student understanding of spacecraft software design, to facilitate the creation of better spacecraft software. It presents a framework for comparing spacecraft software development learning technologies. It then evaluates and compares five prospective learning technologies based on this framework. The areas that each learning technology is particularly well suited for are presented and discussed.
Inhibition of Ca2+-Independent Phospholipase A2β (iPLA2β) Ameliorates Islet Infiltration and Incidence of Diabetes in NOD Mice
Authors: Bone Robert N. , Gai Ying , Magrioti Victoria , Kokotou Maroula G. , Ali Tomader , Lei Xiaoyong , Tse Hubert M. , Kokotos George , Ramanadham Sasanka
Published: September 2014

Autoimmune β-cell death leads to type 1 diabetes, and with findings that Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2β (iPLA2β) activation contributes to β-cell death, we assessed the effects of iPLA2β inhibition on diabetes development. Administration of FKGK18, a reversible iPLA2β inhibitor, to NOD female mice significantly reduced diabetes incidence in association with 1) reduced insulitis, reflected by reductions in CD4+ T cells and B cells; 2) improved glucose homeostasis; 3) higher circulating insulin; and 4) β-cell preservation. Furthermore, FKGK18 inhibited production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) from CD4+ T cells and antibodies from B cells, suggesting modulation of immune cell responses by iPLA2β-derived products. Consistent with this, 1) adoptive transfer of diabetes by CD4+ T cells to immunodeficient and diabetes-resistant NOD.scid mice was mitigated by FKGK18 pretreatment and 2) TNF-α production from CD4+ T cells was reduced by inhibitors of cyclooxygenase and 12-lipoxygenase, which metabolize arachidonic acid to generate bioactive inflammatory eicosanoids. However, adoptive transfer of diabetes was not prevented when mice were administered FKGK18-pretreated T cells or when FKGK18 administration was initiated with T-cell transfer. The present observations suggest that iPLA2β-derived lipid signals modulate immune cell responses, raising the possibility that early inhibition of iPLA2β may be beneficial in ameliorating autoimmune destruction of β-cells and mitigating type 1 diabetes development.
The Haptoglobin 1 Allele Correlates With White Matter Hyperintensities in Middle-Aged Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Costacou Tina , Rosano Caterina , Aizenstein Howard , Mettenburg Joseph M. , Nunley Karen , Ferrell Robert E. , Orchard Trevor J.
Published: September 2014

Although the haptoglobin (Hp) 1-1 genotype is associated with a lower coronary artery disease (CAD) risk in diabetes, we recently reported an increased stroke incidence in type 1 diabetes with Hp 1-1. We, thus, evaluated differences in earlier brain vascular abnormality markers by Hp using neuroimaging. Neuroimaging was completed in 94 participants of the Pittsburgh Epidemiology of Diabetes Complications study with Hp genotyping available (mean age, 49; duration, 41 years). White matter hyperintensities (WMH) volume, lacunar infarcts, and gray matter atrophy were quantified. Sixteen percent were homozygous for Hp 1 and 43% for Hp 2. A significant trend toward increased WMH was observed with greater duration and the number of Hp 1 alleles. Associations were strongest for the interhemispheric connecting fibers of the corpus callosum. Allowing for duration, sex, waist-to-hip ratio, HbA1c, systolic blood pressure, and lipids in models with backward elimination, results were similar. No significant differences by Hp were noted for atrophy or lacunar infarcts. Consistent with its direct association with stroke, the Hp 1-1 genotype is associated with higher WMH in this population. Further, including mechanistic, studies on the role of the Hp genotype in cerebrovascular disease and the implications for worsening cognitive function are needed.
Early Improvement Predicts Reduced Risk of Incident Diabetes and Improved Cardiovascular Risk in Prediabetic Asian Indian Men Participating in a 2-Year Lifestyle Intervention Program
Authors: Nanditha Arun , Ram Jagannathan , Snehalatha Chamukuttan , Selvam Sundaram , Priscilla Susairaj , Shetty Ananth Samith , Arun Raghavan , Godsland Ian F. , Johnston Desmond G. , Ramachandran Ambady
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE

Objectives of this ancillary analysis of a prospective, prevention study among Asian Indians with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) were a) to quantify the reduction in incident diabetes at 24 months in participants who achieved normal glucose tolerance (NGT) at 6 months (NGT-6 m) compared with the other participants, b) the factors influencing the reversal to NGT at the end of the study at 24 months (NGT-24 m), and c) to assess changes in cardiometabolic risk factors in different categories of dysglycemia at 24 months.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data from a 2-year primary prevention trial were used. Effect of reversion to NGT-6 m on incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model. Predictive variables for reversal to NGT were identified using multiple logistic regression analysis. Changes in cardiometabolic risk factors were estimated according to the final glycemic status using fixed-effect, mixed-linear regression modeling.

RESULTS

The risk of T2DM in 2 years was lower by 75% in NGT-6 m group (hazard ratio 0.25 [95% CI 0.12–0.52]). Predictive variables for reversal to NGT-24 m were good baseline β-cell function (odds ratio [OR] 2.79 [95% CI 2.30–3.40]) and its further improvement (OR 5.70 [95% CI 4.58–7.08]), and NGT-6 m (OR 2.10 [95% CI 1.14–3.83]). BMI decreased in those who reverted to NGT. Deterioration to T2DM was associated with an increase in the levels of cardiometabolic risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Early reversion to NGT by lifestyle intervention in prediabetic men was associated with a significant reduction in subsequent incidence of diabetes. Good baseline β-cell function and its further improvement and NGT-6 m were associated with reversion to NGT-24 months. Reversion to NGT was associated with modest improvements, whereas conversion to T2DM was associated with significant worsening of the cardiometabolic risk profile.
Comparison of an Oak Forest and of a Pasture Groundwater Uptake and Salt Dynamics on the Hungarian Great Plain
Authors: Gribovszki Zoltán , Kalicz Péter , Balog Kitti , Szabó András , Tóth Tibor
Published: September 2014

The forest area in Hungary has increased during the last century from 1.1 to 2.0 million ha. The European Union supports further afforestation so roughly 15 -18 000 hectares are being planted each year, mostly on the Hungarian Great Plain. Water uptake of forests from groundwater can be significant in shallow groundwater areas of the Hungarian Great Plain especially in drought periods. Therefore forests can induce water table depression and subsurface salt accumulation above saline water table in areas with a negative water balance.

The impact of forests is examined by a systematic study on the Hungarian Great Plain., An oak forest and a pasture groundwater uptake and salt accumulation effect were compared at the stand scale. Under the forest the water table levels were roughly 0.5 m lower than under the pasture, and the groundwater uptake of the oak plot was more than twice as great. Larger forest groundwater use is not followed by a higher salt uptake. Therefore slight salt accumulation was measured both in the soil and also in the groundwater. Higher groundwater uptake may cause more significant salt accumulation under pronounced drought conditions of a warmer climate.
Representation of the Ethiopian Multicultural Society in Secondary Teacher Education Curricula
Authors: Margo Robsan
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how the multi-ethnic and multicultural characteristics of the diverse Ethiopian society are incorporated into the current secondary teacher education curricula of the country. To that end, both qualitative and quantitative content analyses were used as tools for data collection. The Ethiopian general national secondary teacher education curricula framework and three other specific secondary teacher education curricula were analysed based on Banksí (1993, 2001, 2006) four approaches to the integration of ethnic and multicultural contents into teacher education curricula. The study exhibited an increasing ambition to address issues of multicultural education into the Ethiopian general national secondary teacher education curricula framework. Nevertheless, elements of multi-ethnic and multicultural education are, to a great extent, missing in the specific secondary teacher education curricula. Implications which are assumed to improve fair representation of the ethnic and cultural diversity of the Ethiopian peoples into the entire secondary teacher education curricula are presented in the article.`
A new water energy dissipater for efficient energy dissipation and enriching the flow with dissolved oxygen content
Authors: Ashour Mohamed A. , Sayed Tarek , El-Attar Salah
Published: September 2014

One of the most important problems Egypt is facing nowadays is saving and controlling the limited available quantity of water and its quality for irrigation and other purposes. Such goals may be achieved through different types of diversion head structures across the river and in the entrance of other carrying canals. The construction of diversion head structures, which usually causes many technical problems, should have the objective of solving and overcoming to protect the structure from failure. The main problem occurs downstream. Such structures have the harmful effect of converting the potential energy gained in the upstream side to a kinetic energy in the downstream side. This energy must be dissipated shortly and safely as near as possible to the head structure to avoid its destructive effect. The hydraulic jump is the most effective tool for the dissipation of water energy, accelerating the forming of the hydraulic jump downstream such structures became essential for achieving our main goal. Using energy dissipaters on the soled apron in the downstream side of the structures was the main technique for accelerating the hydraulic jump formation and dissipating great amount of the residual harmful kinetic energy occurring downstream head structures. So early, many researchers investigated different types, shapes, and arrangements of such dissipaters to evaluate its efficiency in dissipating the water energy and accelerating the forming of the hydraulic jump. In fact, in our present study we will try to investigate some other shapes of energy dissipaters, which have not been studied enough, by evaluating its positive technical impact on: (i) percentage value of dissipating kinetic water energy; (ii) percentage value of increasing the dissolved oxygen (DO) content in the irrigation water, and improving its quality. The study is proposed to be held in the irrigation and hydraulic laboratory of the Civil department, Faculty of Engineering, Assiut University, using a movable bed tilting channel 20 m long, 30 cm wide, and 50 cm high, using fourteen types of curved dissipaters with different arrangements as shown in Table 2. It is worth mentioning that, in this first part of our paper, we will introduce a comparative analysis for the efficiency of different types of energy dissipaters available in the literature review. The most effective types of the previously studied dissipaters will be put in a comparison with our new dissipaters from the two above mentioned points of view, and the results will be presented in the second part of this paper later.
The structure and spatial heterogeneity of zooplankton in small lake river Wel (Poland)
Authors: Napiórkowski Paweł , Napiórkowska Teresa
Published: September 2014

The aim of the study was to determine changes in potamoplankton structure caused by lakes in the fluvial system of the small River Wel. The river flows through 10 lakes. The study was conducted in 2007 and 2008. The selection of sites enabled the assessment of the impact exerted by hydrological conditions of the river on zooplankton, as well as the determination of the effect of lakes situated within the river course on the analysed assemblage of organisms. In total 95 species were determined with an average abundance 1026 ind. 10 dm-3. Rotifers dominated qualitatively and quantitatively and among crustaceans - Copepods. Lakes seem to be the main source of zooplankton in the fluvial system of the Wel River. The lakes disturb the river continuum, but their impact on the structure of zooplankton is short-lived. Due to the presence of flow-through lakes along the river, species richness of zooplankton in the Wel River is similar to that in large rivers.
Changing the geometry of basins and water resources of Lakes Gopło and Ostrowskie under the influence of anthropopressure
Authors: Adam Piasecki , Rajmund Skowron
Published: September 2014

The paper presents the changes that have occurred in the morphometry of Lakes Gopło and Ostrowskie, which are located
in central Poland. The analysis covered the period characterised by increased human interference into the water cycle, which has
been taking place continually since the mid-eighteenth century. On the basis of available cartographic materials (aerial photographs,
topographic maps, bathymetric charts of the lakes) and the authors’ own field measurements digital terrain models were developed
for the immediate environment of the surveyed lakes. These models, in turn, were used for measuring basic parameters characterising
the external dimensions of the lakes (surface area, length and maximum width, shoreline length) and their underwater relief (volume,
maximum and average depth). In addition, the selected indicators of the shape and form of the lake basins were determined. The results
showed a drastic reduction of water resources of the two lakes. The basin of Lake Gopło covers only the deepest parts of the former
reservoir, accounting for only 23.3% of the lake before 1772, and 32.5% of its former volume. In the case of Lake Ostrowskie the surface
area and volume decreased, respectively, by 23.5% (74.9 ha) and 21.3% (6 695 000 m3). Such large changes in surface area and volume of
both lakes have contributed to significant changes in other morphometric parameters and indicators. In particular, significant changes
were observed in relation to such morphometric characteristics as length and maximum width, as well as average and maximum depth.
Response of cyanobacteria to the fountain-based water aeration system in Jeziorak Mały urban lake
Authors: Zębek Elżbieta
Published: September 2014

This study of cyanobacteria phytoplankton was conducted from May to August in 2002, 2003 and 2005 during fountain-based water aeration in the pelagial of the Jeziorak Mały urban lake in Poland. Additional water mixing by this installation’s activity changed the cyanobacterial growth conditions. Although less of their proportion was noted in total phytoplankton abundance, higher mean abundance and biomass were recorded at the fountain than at the lake centre. Higher water temperature in the surface layer favoured cyanobacterial growth at the fountain, while higher iron concentration stimulated their development in the lake’s centre. This was supported by positive correlations between their abundance and these water parameters. Moreover, the fountain’s activity contributed to the cyanobacteria sinking in the water column. The higher abundance of cyanobacteria was found at 1m depth in May, July and August than in the fountain surface layer. Additional water mixing during fountain activity caused also a shift in their abundance maximum (C - June and F - August) and contributed to intensive organic matter decomposition. These conditions promoted cyanobacterial nutrient uptake from the water at the fountain, and this is supported by the negative correlation between their abundance and orthophosphate and total nitrogen concentrations. Generally, water mixing during the fountain’s activity does not inhibit the growth of cyanobacteria. This phenomenon disturbed abundance dynamics of the cyanobacteria in summer months but didn’t contribute to their abundance decrease. It is important for these results to be considered in future management of shallow urban lakes.
Acaulon fontiquerianum (Pottiaceae), a new species to the bryophyte flora of Turkey and SW Asia
Authors: Kırmacı Mesut , Erdağ Adnan
Published: September 2014

Acaulon fontiquerianum Casas & Sérgio (Pottiaceae) is reported for the first time from Turkey and Southwest Asia. The species is briefly described and illustrated, and a key for Turkish Acaulon Müll. Hal. species is provided. The distribution of all Acaulon species known from Turkey is presented.