bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunistic toenail onychomycosis. The fungal colonization of an available nail unit space by non‐dermatophytes is produced by the trauma of the closed shoe by an asymmetric gait or other trauma. A plausible theory
Authors: Zaias N. , Escovar S.X. , Rebell G.
Published: April 2014

Opportunistic onychomycosis is defined, when a non‐dermatophyte mould is cultured from an abnormal nail unit in the absence of a dermatophyte. The presumption is that the mould has caused the abnormal clinical appearance of the nail unit, yet there are no data available to substantiate this claim. Reports have only identified the mould being recovered from the nail unit niche. A review of the published dermatologic literature describing toenail opportunistic onychomycosis by non‐dermatophyte fungi has shown toenails with onycholysis, nail bed (NB) keratosis and nail plate surface abnormalities. The appearance of these clinical changes is indistinguishable from the diagnosis of the Asymmetric Gait Nail Unit Signs (AGNUS). AGNUS is produced by the friction of the closed shoe in patients with an asymmetric gait, resulting primarily from the ubiquitous uneven flat feet. Most commonly, species of Acremonium (Cephalosporium), Aspergillus, Fusarium, Scopulariopsis and rarely species of many different fungi genera are capable of surviving and reproducing in a keratinous environment and change the clinical appearance of the involved nail unit. AGNUS toenails predispose to the colonization by the non‐dermatophyte opportunistic fungi but not by dermatophyte fungi.
MEASURING THE DIVERSITY OF HOUSEHOLD SPENDING PATTERNS
Authors: Chai Andreas , Rohde Nicholas , Silber Jacques
Published: April 2014

Households tend to diversify their spending across a wide range of goods and services as they become more affluent. Recently, there has been growing interest in understanding the precise manner in which this spending diversification process takes place. We review what facts are known about this process and the underlying behavioural tendencies that are thought to drive it. In addition, we clarify the relationship between different approaches to measuring the level of spending diversity. A number of indices are employed, including measures based on joint probabilities, distances and the concept of entropy. Using UK household spending data, we show the extent to which these measures deliver different results and shed light on the nature of behavioural heterogeneity.
The Executive Turnover Risk Premium
Authors: PETERS FLORIAN S. , WAGNER ALEXANDER F.
Published: April 2014

We establish that CEOs of companies experiencing volatile industry conditions are more likely to be dismissed. At the same time, accounting for various other factors, industry risk is unlikely to be associated with CEO compensation other than through dismissal risk. Using this identification strategy, we document that CEO turnover risk is significantly positively associated with compensation. This finding is important because job‐risk‐compensating wage differentials arise naturally in competitive labor markets. By contrast, the evidence rejects an entrenchment model according to which powerful CEOs have lower job risk and at the same time secure higher compensation.
THE EFFECT OF WALMART AND TARGET ON THE TAX BASE: EVIDENCE FROM NEW JERSEY
Authors: Vandegrift Donald , Loyer John
Published: April 2014

We find that a new Walmart has no significant effect on the growth in the tax base in either the host or the adjacent municipality. By contrast, a new Target has a significant positive effect on the growth in the tax base per acre in the host municipality and in the adjacent municipality. The new Target raises the real tax base per acre in the host municipality by about 2.82 percent and in the adjacent municipality by about 5.87 percent. Seventy percent of the host municipality effect follows from changes in the nonresidential tax base.
Shared Use of School Facilities With Community Organizations and Afterschool Physical Activity Program Participation: A Cost‐Benefit Assessment
Authors: Kanters Michael A. , Bocarro Jason N. , Filardo Mary , Edwards Michael B. , McKenzie Thomas L. , Floyd Myron F.
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Partnerships between school districts and community‐based organizations to share school facilities during afterschool hours can be an effective strategy for increasing physical activity. However, the perceived cost of shared use has been noted as an important reason for restricting community access to schools. This study examined shared use of middle school facilities, the amount and type of afterschool physical activity programs provided at middle schools together with the costs of operating the facilities.

METHODS

Afterschool programs were assessed for frequency, duration, and type of structured physical activity programs provided and the number of boys and girls in each program. School operating costs were used to calculate a cost per student and cost per building square foot measure. Data were collected at all 30 middle schools in a large school district over 12 months in 2010‐2011.

RESULTS

Policies that permitted more use of school facilities for community‐sponsored programs increased participation in afterschool programs without a significant increase in operating expenses.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest partnerships between schools and other community agencies to share facilities and create new opportunities for afterschool physical activity programs are a promising health promotion strategy.
Visiting Again? Subjective Well‐Being of Children in Elementary School and Repeated Visits to School Health Nurses
Authors: Leaver Cynthia A.
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Children with vague complaints are without chronic illness, and who repeatedly visit the school nurse may be at risk for limited academic success. This study compares student reports of subjective well‐being between children who do and do not repeatedly visit the school nurse with vague complaints.

METHODS

Children in grades 4 through 6 completed the School Well‐Being Profile‐American English (SWBP‐AE), a questionnaire with 4 well‐being subscales:health status, school environment, social relationships, andschool as a means of self‐fulfillment. School nurses extracted data on clinic visits from clinic records. Logistic regression explored associations between well‐being subscales and repeated visits to the school nurse.

RESULTS

Of the 320 students participating in the study, 33 (12.04%) students made repeated visits to the school nurse. Perception of health status (OR = 2.072; 95%CI = 1.037, 4.163) was the only significant (p < .05) predictor of repeated visits to the nurse.

CONCLUSION

Children with poor perception of theirhealth statusare more likely to repeatedly visit the school nurse. Children's perceptions of theirschool environment,social relationships, orschool as a means of self‐fulfillmentare not statistically significant predictors of repeated visits to the school nurse.
Hookah Smoking and Harm Perception Among Asthmatic Adolescents: Findings From the Florida Youth Tobacco Survey
Authors: Martinasek Mary P. , Gibson‐Young Linda , Forrest Jamie
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Hookah tobacco smoking has increased in prevalence among Florida adolescents and is often viewed as a safer alternative to cigarette smoking by young adults. Asthmatic adolescents are at increased risk of the negative health effects of hookah smoking. The purpose of this study is to examine if hookah use and harm perception vary by asthma status.

METHODS

The Florida Youth Tobacco Survey was conducted in 2012 among 36,578 high school students. Secondary data analysis was conducted to compare the rates of hookah use among asthmatic youth to their nonasthmatic counterparts. Risk perception of hookah use compared to cigarette smoking was also assessed among asthmatic and nonasthmatic adolescents.

RESULTS

One in 5 high school students reported lifetime asthma. These asthmatic students have a significantly higher prevalence of hookah smoking and greater perception of hookah use as being less harmful than cigarette smoking, than their nonasthmatic counterparts. Among asthmatics, 12th graders and Hispanic students had the highest prevalence of hookah smoking.

CONCLUSION

Common misperceptions of hookah smoking as being less harmful than cigarette smoking are prominent among high school students in Florida and are greater among students with asthma than those students who do not have asthma. Efforts to increase education to dispel the myths surrounding hookah smoking as a safer alternative to cigarette smoking needs to exist at the high school level for both students with and without asthma.
Organized Extracurricular Activities: Are In‐School and Out‐of‐School Activities Associated With Different Outcomes for Canadian Youth?
Authors: Guèvremont Anne , Findlay Leanne , Kohen Dafna
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Participation in extracurricular activities can have positive effects on youth, with greater participation associated with higher academic as well as better socioemotional and behavioral outcomes. Little research has examined differential effects of in‐school and out‐of‐school activities.

METHODS

This study examines in‐school and out‐of‐school extracurricular activities for 14‐ to 17‐year‐olds using a population‐based sample of Canadian youth. Associations with socioemotional and academic outcomes, and having tried smoking, alcohol, and marijuana were examined.

RESULTS

Weekly participation in both in‐school and out‐of‐school activities were associated with positive and negative outcomes. In particular, youth who participated in out‐of‐school activities or in both in‐school and out‐of‐school activities had better socioemotional outcomes. Academic outcomes were associated with in‐school and out‐of‐school sports and nonsport activities. Youth who participated weekly in nonsport activities regardless of the context (in‐school or out‐of‐school) were less likely to have tried smoking, alcohol, or marijuana. However, weekly participation in in‐school sports was associated with an increased likelihood of failing a course; youth who participated weekly in out‐of‐school sports were more likely to have tried alcohol.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that participation in extracurricular activities, regardless of context, encourage positive youth development.
Aloysia gratissima prevents cellular damage induced by glutamatergic excitotoxicity
Authors: Zeni Ana L B , Vandresen-Filho Samuel , Dal-Cim Tharine , Martins Wagner C , Bertoldo Daniela B , Maraschin Marcelo , Tasca Carla I
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Aloysia gratissima aqueous extract (AE) was investigated as a putative protective agent against quinolinic acid (QA)-induced seizures in mice and hippocampal cell damage. Additionally, AE and ferulic acid (FA), the major compound of AE, were tested against neurotoxicity evoked by glutamate or its N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) agonist, QA on hippocampal slices, in vitro.

Methods

Mice were treated with AE before QA infusion (36.8 nmol/site) and seizures were analysed. Cellular viability and modulation of excitatory amino acid transport were verified in hippocampal slices. In-vitro AE or FA was tested against neurotoxicity induced by glutamate or QA.

Key findings

AE did not prevent QA-induced seizures; however, it prevented cellular death and disruption of excitatory amino acid transport. In-vitro AE (0.1 or 1.0 mg/ml) or FA (1 or 10 μm), improved cell viability against citotoxicity exerted by glutamate or QA, respectively. Both AE and FA have protective effects depending on activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) signalling pathway.

Conclusions

AE attenuated QA-induced cell damage possibly involving the glutamate transport modulation through NMDAR interaction. FA shows a similar profile of neuroprotection promoted by AE. Therefore, AE treatment might be a useful strategy in preventing brain damage caused by exacerbation of glutamatergic toxicity in nervous system disorders.
Impact of Medical Treatments for Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia on Ejaculatory Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gacci Mauro , Ficarra Vincenzo , Sebastianelli Arcangelo , Corona Giovanni , Serni Sergio , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Maggi Mario , Zattoni Filiberto , Carini Marco , Novara Giacomo
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Several drugs, currently used to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can be associated with bothersome sexual side effects, including ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD).

Aim

To provide a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available randomized clinical trials (RCTs) reporting the impact of medical treatments for LUTS due to BPH on ejaculatory function.

Main Outcome Measure

EjD related to medical treatments for LUTS.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane databases. EjD was identified using both free text (“ejaculat*,” “retrograde ejaculation,” “anejaculation,” “ejaculatory dysfunction”) and Mesh (“Ejaculation”) searches.

Results

Of 101 retrieved articles, 23 were included in the present meta-analysis. EjD was significantly more common with alpha-blockers (ABs) than with placebo (OR:5.88; P < 0.0001), in particular, considering Tamsulosin (OR:8.58; P = 0.006) or Silodosin (OR:32.5; P < 0.0001), with Tamsulosin associated with significantly lower risk of EjD than Silodosin (OR:0.09; P < 0.00001). Conversely, Doxazosin and Terazosin were associated with a risk similar to placebo. Meta-regression showed that EjD was associated with IPSS and with Qmax both before and after treatment with ABs, while multivariate analysis demonstrated that EjD was independently associated with the improvement of IPSS (adj.r:0.2012; P < 0.0001) and Qmax (adj.r:0.522; P < 0.0001).

EjD was significantly more common with 5ARIs as compared with placebo (OR:2.73; P < 0.0001). Both Finasteride (OR 2.70; P < 0.0001) and Dutasteride (OR 2.81; P = 0.0002) were associated with significantly higher risk of EjD than placebo. EjD was significantly more common with combination therapy as compared with ABs alone (OR:3.75; P < 0.0001),or with 5ARIs alone (OR:2.76; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

ABs and 5ARI were both associated with significantly higher risk of EjD than placebo. More the AB is effective over time, greater is the incidence of EjD. Finasteride has the same risk of Dutasteride to cause EjD. Combination therapy with ABs and 5ARIs resulted in a 3-fold increased risk of EjD as compared with ABs or 5ARIs alone. These data can be relevant both for drug selection and patients counseling.
High Patient Satisfaction of Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Insertion with Synchronous Penile Plication for Erectile Dysfunction and Peyronie's Disease
Authors: Chung Paul H. , Francis Scott J. , Morey Allen F.
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Twenty to thirty percent of patients with Peyronie's disease (PD) have erectile dysfunction (ED) refractory to medical therapy and may benefit from a combined procedure addressing both conditions.

Aim

The aim of this study was to show the efficacy of inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) insertion and synchronous penile plication for correcting penile curvature and ED in patients with PD.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent IPP insertion with synchronous penile plication at our tertiary care center between 2010 and 2013. All patients received an intraoperative saline intracorporal injection to induce an artificial erection. After the tunica albuginea was exposed via a standard transverse scrotal incision over the proximal penile shaft, the incision was retracted distally and/or laterally as needed for plication suture placement. Plication sutures were placed in parallel opposite the angle of greatest curvature. The incision was returned proximally to the standard penoscrotal junction for IPP insertion. Demographic and surgical data were collected from the patients' medical records. Patient satisfaction was assessed postoperatively using a nonvalidated questionnaire.

Main Outcome Measures

The focus of this study was surgical outcomes, both technical and patient-reported satisfaction.

Results

Eighteen patients with a mean age of 63 years underwent IPP insertion with synchronous penile plication. Patients presented with dorsal (n = 11), lateral (n = 2), and biplanar curvature (n = 5). Mean preoperative curvature was 39 degrees (range 30–60) and was corrected on average to <5 degrees (range <5–12) using a median of four plication sutures (range 3–6). Among 15 patients completing a postoperative satisfaction survey at a mean of 11 months, all reported improvement in their overall condition and penile curvature; one with biplanar deformity reported minor residual curvature. None reported continued pain or required suture release.

Conclusions

IPP insertion with synchronous penile plication for the correction of ED and PD is effective and results in high patient satisfaction.
Clinicopathological significance of ‘subtypes with stem‐cell feature’ in combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Sasaki Motoko , Sato Hirohide , Kakuda Yuko , Sato Yasunori , Choi Joon Hyuk , Nakanuma Yasuni
Published: April 2014

Backgrounds & Aims

Combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma (cHC‐CC), a malignant liver tumour with poor prognosis, is composed of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CC) and diverse components with intermediate features between HCC and CC, which correspond to hepatic progenitor cells. According to the WHO classification 2010, we surveyed the prevalence and clinicopathological significance of each subtype with stem‐cell features [SC subtype; typical subtype (TS), intermediate cell subtype (INT) and cholangiolocellular type (CLC)] in cHC‐CC and HCC.

Methods

Sixty‐two patients with cHC‐CC (19 women and 43 men) and 26 patients with HCC (all men) were examined. The prevalence of each component was histologically assessed with assistance of mucin and immunohistochemical stainings.

Results

SC subtypes were observed in all cHC‐CCs in various amount and combination. The prevalence of each SC subtype in cHC‐CC was as follows: TS, 10 (16.1%); INT, 53 (83.9%) and CLC, 44 (71.0%). The proportion of INT was significantly correlated with gender (female‐dominant) (P < 0.05), tumour size (P < 0.05), histological grading of HCC (P < 0.01) and inversely correlated with the degree of stromal fibrosis (P < 0.05). The proportion of CLC was significantly correlated with the degree of fibrosis (P < 0.01) and inflammation (P < 0.01), and inversely correlated with tumour size (P < 0.01) and histological grading of HCC (P < 0.05). The proportion of TS was significantly inversely correlated with the degree of inflammation (P < 0.01). Histological diversity score was significantly correlated with vascular invasion and the positivity for α‐foetoprotein.

Conclusion

The proportion of each SC subtype was significantly associated with certain clinicopathological factors, suggesting different properties of each SC subtypes.
Lies and deception in bacterial gene regulation: the roles of nucleic acid decoys
Authors: Göpel Yvonne , Görke Boris
Published: April 2014

Bacteria use intricately interconnected mechanisms acting at the transcriptional and post‐transcriptional level to adjust gene expression to their needs. An intriguing example found in the chitosugar utilization systems of Escherichia coli and Salmonella is uncovered in a study by Plumbridge and colleagues. Three transcription factors (TFs), a small regulatory RNA (sRNA) and a sRNA trap cooperate to set thresholds and dynamics in regulation of chitosugar utilization. Specifically, under inducing conditions a decoy site on the polycistronic chitobiose (chbBCARFG) mRNA sequesters sRNA ChiX, which represses synthesis of the separately encoded chitoporin ChiP. Base‐pairing of ChiX with its decoy has no role for the chb genes themselves when the mRNA is in excess. In the absence of substrate, however, this base‐pairing tightly represses chbC encoding a subunit of the chitosugar transporter. Thus, one and the same sRNA/mRNA interaction serves different regulatory functions under different environmental conditions. The employment of RNA decoys to control the activities of post‐transcriptional regulators themselves is an increasingly recognized mechanism in gene regulation. Another observation in the current study highlights the possibility that decoy sites might even exist on the DNA controlling the availability of TFs for their target promoters.
The c‐ring ion binding site of the ATP synthase from Bacillus pseudofirmus OF4 is adapted to alkaliphilic lifestyle
Authors: Preiss Laura , Langer Julian D. , Hicks David B. , Liu Jun , Yildiz Özkan , Krulwich Terry A. , Meier Thomas
Published: April 2014

In the c‐ring rotor of ATP synthases ions are shuttled across the membrane during ATP synthesis by a unique rotary mechanism. We investigated characteristics of the c‐ring from the alkaliphile Bacillus pseudofirmus OF4 with respect to evolutionary adaptations to operate with protons at high environmental pH. The X‐ray structures of the wild‐type c13 ring at pH 9.0 and a ‘neutralophile‐like’ mutant (P51A) at pH 4.4, at 2.4 and 2.8 Å resolution, respectively, reveal a dependency of the conformation and protonation state of the proton‐binding glutamate (E54) on environmental hydrophobicity. Faster labelling kinetics with the inhibitor dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD) demonstrate a greater flexibility of E54 in the mutant due to reduced water occupancy within the H+ binding site. A second ‘neutralophile‐like’ mutant (V21N) shows reduced growth at high pH, which is explained by restricted conformational freedom of the mutant's E54 carboxylate. The study directly connects subtle structural adaptations of the c‐ring ion binding site to in vivo effects of alkaliphile cell physiology.
Cyrtochilum kraenzlinianum and Cyrtochilum maasii spp. nov. (Orchidaceae, Oncidieae) from Colombia
Authors: Szlachetko Dariusz L. , Kolanowska Marta
Published: April 2014

Two new orchid species from the Cyrtochilum halteratum‐alliance, Cyrtochilum kraenzlinianum and C. maasii, are described and illustrated based on Colombian material. Both novelties are similar to C. halteratum, but they are separable from this species based on floral characteristics. Information about the habitat and ecology of the new species as well as brief notes on their taxonomic affinities are provided.
Natural compounds boldine and menthol are antagonists of human 5‐HT3 receptors: implications for treating gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Walstab J. , Wohlfarth C. , Hovius R. , Schmitteckert S. , Röth R. , Lasitschka F. , Wink M. , Bönisch H. , Niesler B.
Published: April 2014

Background

Impaired 5‐HT3 receptor function is likely involved in the pathogenesis of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) and 5‐HT3 receptor antagonists are effective treatments for chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The monoterpene alcohol menthol and the aporphine alkaloid boldine combat symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases; both interact with other members of the Cys‐loop ligand‐gated ion channel family and may therefore also act on 5‐HT3 receptors.

Methods

The impact of boldine and menthol on human recombinant homomeric 5‐HT3A‐ and heteromeric 5‐HT3AB receptors in HEK293 cells was determined by radioligand binding, a luminescence‐based Ca2+ assay, and a membrane potential assay. 5‐HT3 protein and mRNA expression was assessed in human colon tissue.

Key Results

Boldine and menthol inhibited the 5‐HT‐induced activation of 5‐HT3 receptors in the low and middle micromolar range, respectively. Boldine was a competitive antagonist of both receptors being 6.5‐ to 10‐fold more potent at 5‐HT3A‐ vs 5‐HT3AB receptors. Menthol non‐competitively and stereoselectively inhibited both receptors: In contrast to (+)‐menthol, (−)‐menthol was significantly more potent toward 5‐HT3A‐ vs 5‐HT3AB receptors. We show co‐expression of 5‐HT3A and 5‐HT3B subunits in the human gut epithelium, the lamina propria, the myenteric plexus, and the muscular cell layer.

Conclusions & Inferences

The demonstrated 5‐HT3 inhibitory effects may be relevant for boldine's and menthol's alleviating properties on FGID and may encourage clinical studies with the compounds or the plant extracts for CINV and IBS treatment. The found receptor‐discriminative properties make boldine and (−)‐menthol to potentially useful tools for analyzing structural differences between these receptor subtypes.
The Contents of Perception and the Contents of Emotion
Authors: Wringe Bill
Published: April 2014

Several philosophers think there are important analogies between emotions and perceptual states. Furthermore, considerations about the rational assessibility of emotions have led philosophers—in some cases, the very same philosophers—to think that the content of emotions must be propositional content. If one finds it plausible that perceptual states have propositional contents, then there is no obvious tension between these views. However, this view of perception has recently been attacked by philosophers who hold that the content of perception is object‐like. I shall argue for a view about the content of emotions and perceptual states which will enable us to hold both that emotional content is analogous to perceptual content and that both emotions and perceptual states can have propositional contents. This will involve arguing for a pluralist view of perceptual content, on which perceptual states can have both contents which are proposition‐like and contents which are object‐like. I shall also address two significant objections to the claim that emotions can have proposition‐like contents. Meeting one of these objections will involve taking on a further commitment: the pluralist account of perceptual content will have to be one on which the contents of perception can be non‐conceptual.
Healing images. Gems and medicine
Authors: Dasen Véronique
Published: April 2014

The main purpose of magical gems was to secure divine protection, avert evil influences and heal various diseases. Some body parts are especially addressed, such as the stomach and the uterus. This concern seems to relate to ‘societal diseases’ also found in contemporary literature. How do these ‘healing pictures’ function? The analysis of the pictorial elements reveals different levels of therapeutic efficacy. Some images use visual plays upon words, others combineEgyptian andGraeco‐Roman elements, allowing ‘bilingual’ readings. The mnemonic function of images,charakteresandvoces magicaealso requires further investigations. Objects could transmit the memory of oral rituals and knowledge. The transfer of magical figures on other media is very rare, but when it occurs, as on a few medical devices, it may help us to understand the mechanism of medico‐magical performance, combining formalism and inventiveness.
The Late Roman Landscape of the Northern Levant: A view from Tell Qarqur and the lower Orontes River Valley
Authors: Casana Jesse
Published: April 2014

This paper presents a review and synthesis of archaeological surveys in western Syria and southern Turkey, alongside finds from recent excavations at Tell Qarqur, Syria, revealing regional patterns of late Roman settlement and land use in the lower Orontes River Valley. Survey data show that the late Roman period witnessed a peak in settlement density, with the extension of occupation into previously unoccupied areas and widespread agricultural intensification. Excavations of a typical lowland site at Tell Qarqur reveal an opulent building complex, possibly a church, with a columned hall, elaborate mosaic floor and frescoed interior. Analysis explores the process of agricultural intensification during the late Roman period, the relationship between lowland settlements and the better‐known Dead Cities of the limestone massif to the east, and the ultimate abandonment of the settlement system following the seventh century AD.
Visual working memory gives up attentional control early in learning: Ruling out interhemispheric cancellation
Authors: Reinhart Robert M. G. , Carlisle Nancy B. , Woodman Geoffrey F.
Published: April 2014

Current research suggests that we can watch visual working memory surrender the control of attention early in the process of learning to search for a specific object. This inference is based on the observation that the contralateral delay activity (CDA) rapidly decreases in amplitude across trials when subjects search for the same target object. Here, we tested the alternative explanation that the role of visual working memory does not actually decline across learning, but instead lateralized representations accumulate in both hemispheres across trials and wash out the lateralized CDA. We show that the decline in CDA amplitude occurred even when the target objects were consistently lateralized to a single visual hemifield. Our findings demonstrate that reductions in the amplitude of the CDA during learning are not simply due to the dilution of the CDA from interhemispheric cancellation.
Herbicides Can Negatively Affect Seed Performance in Native Plants
Authors: Wagner Viktoria , Nelson Cara R.
Published: April 2014

Herbicides are widely used to control invasive non‐native plants in wildlands, yet there is little information on their non‐target effects, including on native plants that are intended to benefit from the treatment. Effects at the seed stage have been particularly understudied, despite the fact that managers commonly seed native plants immediately after herbicide application. We conducted a greenhouse experiment to explore the effects of two broadleaf‐specific herbicides (aminopyralid and picloram) on seedling emergence and biomass for 14 species that grow in dry grasslands of NW North America. For each species, we placed 50 seeds in soil‐filled pots that were sprayed with a water control or one of the herbicides at one of two rates (1× and 0.01× of the recommended rate). After 5 weeks, we assessed seedling emergence and dry aboveground biomass per pot. At the recommended rate (1×), both her bicides significantly suppressed seedling emergence and lowered biomass. At the diluted rate (0.01×), the effect of picloram was comparable to the effect at the recommended rate, whereas aminopyralid had no effect. There was no difference in effects of herbicides on native versus non‐native species. Although both herbicides are considered to be broadleaf‐specific, monocots were just as vulnerable as dicots at the recommended rate. Our results show that herbicides can harm non‐native and native plants at the seed stage, alike. Land managers should avoid spraying if recruitment of native species from the seedbank is a goal and should not seed directly after spraying.
The Deviance Information Criterion: 12 Years on
Authors: Spiegelhalter David J. , Best Nicola G. , Carlin Bradley P. , Linde Angelika
Published: April 2014

The essentials of our paper of 2002 are briefly summarized and compared with other criteria for model comparison. After some comments on the paper's reception and influence, we consider criticisms and proposals forimprovement made by us and others.
Granulocyte‐reactive antibodies are associated with red blood cell alloimmunization
Authors: Schönbacher M. , Heinzl M. W. , Dauber E.‐M. , Mayr W. R. , Panzer S. , Körmöczi G. F.
Published: April 2014

Granulocyte‐reactive antibodies may cause transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) and immune neutropenias. Risk factors for their acquisition other than previous alloexposition are largely unknown. In addition to the known association between human leucocyte antigen alloantibodies and red blood cell alloimmunization in selected cohorts of transfused patients, this study investigated a possible extension of this association to granulocyte‐reactive antibodies in women with a history of pregnancy. The overall prevalence of granulocyte‐reactive antibodies in 333 samples from women with a history of pregnancy (143 samples containing red cell alloantibodies) was 23·1%. The prevalence in the red cell‐alloimmunized group (32·9%) was significantly higher than in controls (15·8%, P < 0·001). This could suggest that some individuals may be strong immunological responders, forming alloantibodies more readily than others.
Curcumin counteracts loss of force and atrophy of hindlimb unloaded rat soleus by hampering neuronal nitric oxide synthase untethering from sarcolemma
Authors: Vitadello Maurizio , Germinario Elena , Ravara Barbara , Libera Luciano Dalla , Danieli‐Betto Daniela , Gorza Luisa
Published: April 2014

Key points

Attenuation of disuse muscle atrophy by means of a pharmacological approach represents the wanted solution for patients who cannot exercise.

Nutraceutics, e.g. the vegetal polyphenol curcumin, are relatively safe substances.

By lowering oxidative stress, curcumin counteracted the loss of muscle mass and force of soleus muscles, reproduced in the laboratory rat by hindlimb unloading

Curcumin effects are mediated by the chaperone protein Grp94, which maintains active neuronal nitric oxide synthase molecules at their physiological site in the skeletal myofibre.

The systemic administration of very low doses of curcumin appears promising for counteracting muscle atrophy in bedridden patients.

Antioxidant administration aimed to antagonize the development and progression of disuse muscle atrophy provided controversial results. Here we investigated the effects of curcumin, a vegetal polyphenol with pleiotropic biological activity, because of its ability to upregulate glucose‐regulated protein 94 kDa (Grp94) expression in myogenic cells. Grp94 is a sarco‐endoplasmic reticulum chaperone, the levels of which decrease significantly in unloaded muscle. Rats were injected intraperitoneally with curcumin and soleus muscle was analysed after 7 days of hindlimb unloading or standard caging. Curcumin administration increased Grp94 protein levels about twofold in muscles of ambulatory rats (P < 0.05) and antagonized its decrease in unloaded ones. Treatment countered loss of soleus mass and myofibre cross‐sectional area by approximately 30% (P ≤ 0.02) and maintained a force–frequency relationship closer to ambulatory levels. Indexes of muscle protein and lipid oxidation, such as protein carbonylation, revealed by Oxyblot, and malondialdehyde, measured with HPLC, were significantly blunted in unloaded treated rats compared to untreated ones (P = 0.01). Mechanistic involvement of Grp94 was suggested by the disruption of curcumin‐induced attenuation of myofibre atrophy after transfection with antisense grp94 cDNA and by the drug‐positive effect on the maintenance of the subsarcolemmal localization of active neuronal nitric oxide synthase molecules, which were displaced to the sarcoplasm by unloading. The absence of additive effects after combined administration of a neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor further supported curcumin interference with this pro‐atrophic pathway. In conclusion, curcumin represents an effective and safe tool to upregulate Grp94 muscle levels and to maintain muscle function during unweighting.
Contrasting actions of group I metabotropic glutamate receptors in distinct mouse striatal neurones
Authors: Partridge John G. , Lewin Amanda E. , Yasko Jessica R. , Vicini Stefano
Published: April 2014

Key points

Pharmacological activation of striatal Group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) increases the occurrence of GABAA‐mediated currents in striatal spiny projection neurones (SPNs).

Genetically identified striatal interneurones are depolarized by Group I mGluR activation.

Group I mGluR activation elevates intracellular calcium in genetically identified striatal interneurones expressing a genetically encoded calcium indicator.

Group I mGluR activation results in increased intracellular calcium in SPNs only after priming with calcium influx.

Combined electrophysiology and calcium imaging reveals that mGluR activation is not accompanied by depolarization in SPNs.

In mouse striatum, metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) activation leads to several modulatory effects in synaptic transmission. These effects range from dampening of glutamate release from excitatory terminals to depolarization of divergent classes of interneurones. We compared the action of group I mGluR activation on several populations of striatal neurones using a combination of genetic identification, electrophysiology, and Ca2+ imaging techniques. Patch‐clamp recordings from spiny projection neurones (SPNs) and various interneurone populations demonstrated that the group I mGluR agonist (RS)‐3,5‐dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG) robustly depolarizes several interneurone classes that form GABAergic synapses onto SPNs. We further utilized the genetic reporter mouse strain Ai38, which expresses the calcium indicator protein GCaMP3 in a Cre‐dependent manner. Breeding Ai38 mice with various neurone selective, promoter‐driven Cre recombinase mice resulted in GCaMP3 expression in defined cell populations in striatum. Consistent with our electrophysiological findings, group I agonist applications increased intracellular levels of calcium ([Ca2+]i) in all interneurone populations tested. We also found that acute DHPG application evoked a transient, rapid increase in [Ca2+]i from only a small percentage of identifiable SPNs. Surprisingly, this fast [Ca2+]i response exhibited a robust enhancement or sensitization, in a calcium‐dependent fashion. Following several procedures to increase [Ca2+]i, the vast majority of SPNs responded with rapid changes in [Ca2+]i to mGluR agonists in a time‐dependent fashion. These findings extend our understanding on group I mGluR influence of striatal output via powerful, local GABAergic connections in addition to [Ca2+]i dynamics that impact on activity or spike‐timing‐dependent forms of synaptic plasticity.
Astrocyte calcium signalling orchestrates neuronal synchronization in organotypic hippocampal slices
Authors: Sasaki Takuya , Ishikawa Tomoe , Abe Reimi , Nakayama Ryota , Asada Akiko , Matsuki Norio , Ikegaya Yuji
Published: April 2014

Key points

In the brain, astrocytes detect neuronal activity and regulate neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission.

Recent studies show that calcium elevations that are localized within astrocyte processes upregulate endogenous neurotransmission at nearby synapses.

We demonstrated that at the network level calcium buffering in astrocytes caused a significant reduction in the correlated activity of neurons in cultured hippocampal slices.

In contrast, the uncaging of calcium in astrocytes triggered synchronized activity in neuronal populations.

This study provides experimental support for the functional relevance of astrocyte signalling to the maintenance of collective neuronal dynamics.

Astrocytes are thought to detect neuronal activity in the form of intracellular calcium elevations; thereby, astrocytes can regulate neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission. Little is known, however, about how the astrocyte calcium signal regulates the activity of neuronal populations. In this study, we addressed this issue using functional multineuron calcium imaging in hippocampal slice cultures. Under normal conditions, CA3 neuronal networks exhibited temporally correlated activity patterns, occasionally generating large synchronization among a subset of cells. The synchronized neuronal activity was correlated with astrocyte calcium events. Calcium buffering by an intracellular injection of a calcium chelator into multiple astrocytes reduced the synaptic strength of unitary transmission between pairs of surrounding pyramidal cells and caused desynchronization of the neuronal networks. Uncaging the calcium in the astrocytes increased the frequency of neuronal synchronization. These data suggest an essential role of the astrocyte calcium signal in the maintenance of basal neuronal function at the circuit level.
A Method for Predicting Minimum-Time Capability of a Motorcycle on a Racing Circuit
Authors: Sharp R. S.
Published: April 2014

Prediction by simulation of the minimum-time lap of a flat and level racing circuit by a high-performance motorcycle is treated. A novel method is described. Constituents of the method comprise: (i) a high-fidelity mathematical model of the vehicle; (ii) a rider model with control of throttle/brake position, steering torque, and upper-body lean torque. The rider model uses linear quadratic optimal preview control with adaptation to variations in running conditions by gain scheduling; (iii) a circuit model; and (iv) a learning process through which the rider arrives at the best speed target. The constituents are discussed in turn. Then, systematic reduction of lap times for each of two circuits is demonstrated. Aspects of the performance of the motorcycle in very fast laps of the circuits are shown, providing evidence of the effectiveness of the method established.
The Role of Symptoms and Self-Efficacy in Predicting Physical Activity Change Among Older Adults With Arthritis
Authors: Sperber Nina , Hall Katherine S. , Allen Kelli , DeVellis Brenda M. , Lewis Megan , Callahan Leigh F.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Physical and psychological symptoms limit physical activity for people with arthritis. This study examined if self-efficacy mediated a relationship between symptom and physical activity (PA) frequency change.

Methods:

This was a secondary analysis of older adults with arthritis and joint pain in a trial of a lifestyle PA program (n = 339). Measures were depressive symptoms, pain, fatigue, arthritis self-efficacy, PA self-efficacy, and PA frequency. A panel model was used to analyze relationships at baseline and changes at 20 weeks.

Results:

The mean age was 68.8 years. At baseline, depression and fatigue were associated with arthritis self-efficacy (β = –.34 and –.24) and, in turn, PA self-efficacy (β = .63); PA self-efficacy was associated with PA (β = .15). Pain and depression changes were associated with arthritis self-efficacy change (β = –.20 and –.21) and, in turn, PA self-efficacy (β = .32) change; PA self-efficacy change was associated with PA change (β = .36).

Conclusion:

Change in symptom severity affected change in PA frequency. These relationships appeared to operate through self-efficacy. Over time, pain appeared to have a stronger relationship than fatigue with self-efficacy and PA. These findings support strategies to help people with arthritis strengthen their confidence for symptom coping and PA participation.
The Adoption and Spread of a Core-Strengthening Exercise Through an Online Social Network
Authors: Pagoto Sherry L. , Schneider Kristin L. , Oleski Jessica , Smith Brian , Bauman Michael
Published: April 2014

Background:

The present feasibility study describes engagement and spread of a Twitter-based core-strengthening challenge.

Methods:

A challenge that entailed completing a core-strengthening exercise using a hashtag (#PlankADay) was circulated via Twitter. This study surveyed users who joined during the first 2 months of the challenge to describe their characteristics, including social support for exercise and to what extent they invited others to join. The study continued to track total users for 10 months.

Results:

Of 407 individuals who joined in the first 2 months, 105 completed surveys. Among these, 81% were female and 86% white and mean age was 35.8. 72% participated for at least 1 month and 47% participated for at least 2 months. Survey participants reported that the challenge increased their enjoyment of abdominal exercise. Of the 68% of participants who invited others to participate, 28% recruited none, 66% recruited 1–5 users, and 6% recruited 10 or more users. Participants reported that online friends provided as much positive social support for exercise as family and in-person friends. In 14 months, 4941 users produced 76,746 tweets and mean total tweets per user was 15.86 (SD = 75.34; range = 1–2888).

Conclusion:

Online social networks may be a promising mechanism to spread brief exercise behaviors.
An Assessment of Schoolyard Features and Behavior Patterns in Children’s Utilization and Physical Activity
Authors: Anthamatten Peter , Brink Lois , Kingston Beverly , Kutchman Eve , Lampe Sarah , Nigg Claudio
Published: April 2014

Background:

Careful research that elucidates how behavior relates to design in the context of elementary school grounds can serve to guide cost-efficient design with the goal of encouraging physical activity (PA). This work explores patterns in children’s PA behavior within playground spaces with the specific goal of guiding healthy playground design.

Methods:

Data on children’s utilization and PA behavior in 6 playgrounds divided into 106 observation zones were collected in 2005 and 2006 at Denver elementary school playgrounds using the System for Observing Play and Leisure Activity in Youth. Analyses of variance and t tests determined whether there were differences in utilization and behavior patterns across observations zones and between genders.

Results:

This study provides evidence that children prefer to use certain types of playground zones and that they are more likely to practice moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in some zones. The authors observed statistically significant differences between genders. Boys were more likely to engage in MVPA in zones without equipment, girls were more likely to use zones with equipment.

Conclusions:

This work suggests that the inclusion or omission of specific playground features may have an impact on the way that children use the spaces.
Steps That Count: Physical Activity Recommendations, Brisk Walking, and Steps Per Minute—How Do They Relate?
Authors: Pillay Julian D. , Kolbe-Alexander Tracy L. , Proper Karin I. , van Mechelen Willem , Lambert Estelle V.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Brisk walking is recommended as a form of health-enhancing physical activity. This study determines the steps/minute rate corresponding to self-paced brisk walking (SPBW); a predicted steps/minute rate for moderate physical activity (MPA) and a comparison of the 2 findings.

Methods:

A convenience sample (N = 58: 34 men, 24 women, 31.7 ± 7.7yrs), wearing pedometers and a heart rate (HR) monitor, performed SPBW for 10 minutes and 5 indoor sessions, regulated by a metronome (ranging from 60–120 steps/minute). Using steps/minute and HR data of the trials, a steps/minute rate for MPA was predicted. Adjustments were subsequently made for aerobic fitness (using maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) estimates), age, and sex as possible contributors to stepping rate differences.

Results:

Average steps/minute rate for SPBW was 118 ± 9 (116 ± 9; 121 ± 8 for men/women, respectively; P = .022); predicted steps/minute rate for MPA was 122 ± 37 (127 ± 36; 116 ± 39 for men/women, respectively; P < .99) and was similar to steps/minute rate of SPBW (P = .452), even after adjusting for age, sex, and aerobic fitness.

Conclusion:

Steps/minute rates of SPBW correlates closely with targeted HR for MPA, independent of aerobic fitness; predicted steps/minute rate for MPA relates closely to steps/minute rates of SPBW. Findings support current PA messages that use the term brisk walking as a reference for MPA.