bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On internally cancellable rings
Authors: Altun Meltem , Özcan A. Çiğdem
Published: June 2016

The concept of internally cancellable rings has been extensively studied in the literature. This paper seeks to continue the study of these rings and find some new characterizations. It is proved that [Formula: see text] is “IC”, if and only if for each regular element [Formula: see text], and idempotent element [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text], there exists [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is a unit (alternatively, unit-regular element) in [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In case the ring [Formula: see text] has the summand sum property, we indicate that [Formula: see text] is IC, if and only if for each regular element [Formula: see text], and element [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text], there exists an idempotent [Formula: see text], such that [Formula: see text] is a unit in [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Inner actions of weak Hopf algebras
Authors: Bagio Dirceu , Flôres Daiana , Sant’ana Alveri
Published: June 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be an associative ring and [Formula: see text] idempotent elements of [Formula: see text]. In this paper we introduce the notion of [Formula: see text]-invertibility for an element of [Formula: see text] and use it to define inner actions of weak Hopf algebras. Given a weak Hopf algebra [Formula: see text] and an algebra [Formula: see text], we present sufficient conditions for [Formula: see text] to admit an inner action of [Formula: see text]. We also prove that if [Formula: see text] is a left [Formula: see text]-module algebra then [Formula: see text] acts innerly on the smash product [Formula: see text] if and only if [Formula: see text] is a quantum commutative weak Hopf algebra.
Linearized systems and a generalized Cayley–Hamilton theorem
Authors: Lang Jeffrey , Newland Daniel
Published: June 2016

We study linearized systems of equations in characteristic [Formula: see text] of the form [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a square matrix and [Formula: see text]. We present algorithms for calculating their solutions and for determining the minimum distance of their solution spaces. In the case when [Formula: see text] has entries in [Formula: see text], the finite field of [Formula: see text] elements, we explore the relationships between the minimal and characteristic polynomials of [Formula: see text] and the above mentioned features of the solution space. In order to extend and generalize these findings to the case when [Formula: see text] has entries in an arbitrary field of characteristic [Formula: see text], we obtain generalizations of the characteristic polynomial of a matrix and the Cayley–Hamilton theorem to square linearized systems.
Binding Free Energy and the structural changes determination in hGH protein with different concentrations of copper ions (A molecular dynamics simulation study)
Authors: Tazikeh-Lemeski Elham
Published: June 2016

In this study, we estimated the optimum concentration of copper ions that are effective in the stability and the structural changes of human growth hormone (hGH) protein in the combination of different concentrations of these ions at the molecular level using molecular dynamics simulation by Gromacs 4.6.5 software. Moreover, to estimate the binding affinity of copper ions to hGH protein, binding free energies is calculated by the molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann Surface Area (MM-PBSA). The analysis of molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories as dictionary of the secondary structure of protein (DSSP), solvent accessible surface area (SASA) and binding free energy calculations show that hGH protein structure is more stabilized by increasing a limited concentration of copper ions. These findings align with our previous experimental studies.
Application of Positivity-Preserving Discontinuous Galerkin Scheme in Gaseous Detonations
Authors: Wang Cheng , Bi Yong , Han Wenhu
Published: June 2016

In numerical simulation of gaseous detonation, due to the complexity of the computational domain, negative density and pressure often emerge in high resolution numerical computing, which leads to blow-ups. The paper provides high order discontinuous Galerkin (DG) positivity-preserving scheme for two-dimensional (2D) Euler equations with two-step chemical reaction which preserve positivity of density, pressure and chemical reaction process. A positivity-preserving limiter is added in high order DG scheme without influencing conservation, accuracy and stability. The method is verified by parallel numerical simulations and is approved to be well applied to numerical simulation of gaseous detonation propagation with complicated geometry boundary.
A Class of Methods with Optimal Stability Properties for the Numerical Solution of IVPs: Construction and Implementation
Authors: Nasab Masoumeh Hosseini , Hojjati Gholamreza , Abdi Ali
Published: June 2016

Considering the methods with future points technique from second derivative general linear methods (SGLMs) point of view, makes it possible to improve their stability properties. In this paper, we extend the stability regions of a modified version of E2BD formulas to optimal one and show its effectiveness by numerical verifications. Also, implementation issues, with numerical experiments, of these methods are investigated in a variable step-size mode.
Electrochemical behavior of a number of bispyridyl-substituted porphyrins and their electrocatalytic activity in molecular oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Do Minh N. , Berezina Nadezhda M. , Bazanov Mikhail I. , Gyseinov Sabir S. , Berezin Mikhail M. , Koifman Oscar I.
Published: June 2016

The investigation of electrochemical properties of active layers containing 5,15-bis(pyrid-3-yl)-3,7,13,17-tetramethyl-2,8,12,18-tetraethylporphine, [5,15-bis(pyrid-3-yl)-3,7,13,17-tetramethyl-2,8,12, 18-tetraethylporphinato]cobalt(II), bispyridine[5,15-bis(pyrid-3-yl)-3,7,13,17-tetramethyl-2,8,12,18-tetraethylporphinato]cobalt(III), [5,15-bis(pyrid-4-yl)-3,7,13,17-tetramethyl-2,8,12,18-tetraethylporphinato]cobalt(II) and bispyridine[5,15-bis(pyrid-4-yl)-3,7,13,17-tetramethyl-2,8,12,18-tetraethylporphinato]cobalt(III) in 0.1 M KOH aqueous solution has been carried out by cyclic voltammetry. The potential ranges of redox processes related to the transformation of the porphyrin macrocycle, pyridyl substituents and central metal have been established. The electrochemical parameters of oxygen electroreduction reaction (the half-wave potential — E[Formula: see text](O[Formula: see text]), the maximum potential — E[Formula: see text](O[Formula: see text]), the current density — j, the activation energy — Eact) have been determined. It was shown that all porphyrins exhibit the catalytic activity. The electroreduction process of oxygen on electrode with the porphyrin-ligand occurs via 2-electron mechanism to give hydrogen peroxide ion HO2-, and on ones with the cobalt porphyrins — via parallel-sequential pathway including 2-electron and 4-electron processes to give HO2-, OH-. The presence of pyridine axial ligands in Co-complexes leads to a significant increase of the electrocatalytic activity in molecular oxygen reduction reaction.
STRATEGIC GIVENS IN NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT: UNDERSTANDING CURVILINEAR EFFECTS ON NEW PRODUCT PERFORMANCE
Authors: ZACHARIAS NICOLAS A. , STOCK RUTH MARIA , IM SUBIN
Published: June 2016

Although top managers’ direct influence on new product development (NPD) projects may not be evident, managers frame the conditions surrounding such projects by determining the strategic directions and managing the context for a firm’s innovation activities. Drawing on strategic leadership theory and effectuation logic, this study proposes nonlinear effects of three important strategic givens determined by top managers that represent key levers to frame firms’ NPD: customer orientation, encouragement to take risks, and autonomy. Multi-informant data from top-level marketing managers and project managers in multiple U.S. high-tech industries indicate optimal levels for each strategic given. A moderate level of customer orientation is optimal for new product performance (inverted U-shaped relationship); new products also perform best when managers support very low or high levels of autonomy (U-shaped relationship). In contrast with a predicted curvilinear effect, managers’ encouragement of risk taking actually exerts a positive linear effect on new product performance.
Attached prime ideals of generalized inverse polynomial modules
Authors: Zhao Renyu
Published: June 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be a ring, [Formula: see text] a strictly totally ordered monoid which is also artinian and [Formula: see text] a monoid homomorphism. Given a right [Formula: see text]-module [Formula: see text], denote by [Formula: see text] the generalized inverse polynomial module over the skew generalized power series ring [Formula: see text]. It is shown in this paper that if [Formula: see text] is a completely [Formula: see text]-compatible module and [Formula: see text] an attached prime ideal of [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] is an attached prime ideal of [Formula: see text], and that if [Formula: see text] is a completely [Formula: see text]-compatible Bass module, then every attached prime ideal of [Formula: see text] can be written as the form of [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is an attached prime ideal of [Formula: see text].
A Historical Snapshot of the Zika Virus and Concise Bibliography
Authors: Stirling Dale A.
Published: June 2016

The current concern over the Zika virus is far greater than documented in the historical record. This short review provides context to the current concern over a possible pandemic and provides a comprehensive bibliographic review of Zika virus literature organized into several key thematic areas.
China’s and India’s Economic Engagement in Africa: Similar Patterns, Different Dynamics
Authors: Mao Keji , Tang Xiaoyang
Published: June 2016

To enhance their economic engagement in Africa, both China and India have institutionalized their interactions with African countries through multilateral leaders’ summits. The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) held successively in late 2015 reveal many interesting trends of both countries’ relationships with Africa. Although India has intended to differentiate itself from China in diplomatic rhetoric, both countries actually share a number of vital commonalities in their trade relations with Africa. Following their respective summits, China’s and India’s engagement in the vast continent is likely to demonstrate distinctive styles, as the two countries possess different sets of political and economic resources at their disposal and tend to prioritize contrasting dimensions of economic engagement in Africa. In the long run, however, it is possible to establish a trilateral partnership that combines India’s remarkable “soft power” with China’s economic advantages to generate lasting industrialization and economic progress of Africa.
Motor unit activity in biceps brachii of left-handed humans during sustained contractions with two load types
Authors: Gould Jeffrey R. , Cleland Brice T. , Mani Diba , Amiridis Ioannis G. , Enoka Roger M.
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the study was to compare the discharge characteristics of single motor units during sustained isometric contractions that required either force or position control in left-handed individuals. The target force for the two sustained contractions (24.9 ± 10.5% maximal force) was identical for each biceps brachii motor unit ( n = 32) and set at 4.7 ± 2.0% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) force above its recruitment threshold (range: 0.5–41.2% MVC force). The contractions were not sustained to task failure, but the duration (range: 60–330 s) was identical for each motor unit and the decline in MVC force immediately after the sustained contractions was similar for the two tasks (force: 11.1% ± 13.7%; position: 11.6% ± 9.9%). Despite a greater increase in the rating of perceived exertion during the position task (task × time interaction, P < 0.006), the amplitude of the surface-recorded electromyogram for the agonist and antagonist muscles increased similarly during the two tasks. Nonetheless, mean discharge rate of the biceps brachii motor units declined more during the position task (task × time interaction, P < 0.01) and the variability in discharge times (coefficient of variation for interspike interval) increased only during the position task (task × time interaction, P < 0.008). When combined with the results of an identical study on right-handers (Mottram CJ, Jakobi JM, Semmler JG, Enoka RM. J Neurophysiol 93: 1381–1392, 2005), the findings indicate that handedness does not influence the adjustments in biceps brachii motor unit activity during sustained submaximal contractions requiring either force or position control.
Manipulation of DNA Repair Proficiency in Mouse Models of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Mcilhatton Michael A. , Boivin Gregory P. , Groden Joanna
Published: June 2016

Technical and biological innovations have enabled the development of more sophisticated and focused murine models that increasingly recapitulate the complex pathologies of human diseases, in particular cancer. Mouse models provide excellentin vivosystems for deciphering the intricacies of cancer biology within the context of precise experimental settings. They present biologically relevant, adaptable platforms that are amenable to continual improvement and refinement. We discuss how recent advances in our understanding of tumorigenesis and the underlying deficiencies of DNA repair mechanisms that drive it have been informed by using genetically engineered mice to create defined, well-characterized models of human colorectal cancer. In particular, we focus on how mechanisms of DNA repair can be manipulated precisely to createin vivomodels whereby the underlying processes of tumorigenesis are accelerated or attenuated, dependent on the composite alleles carried by the mouse model. Such models have evolved to the stage where they now reflect the initiation and progression of sporadic cancers. The review is focused on mouse models of colorectal cancer and how insights from these models have been instrumental in shaping our understanding of the processes and potential therapies for this disease.
Spectrum of Opportunistic Fungal Infections in HIV/AIDS Patients in Tertiary Care Hospital in India
Authors: Kaur Ravinder , Dhakad Megh S. , Goyal Ritu , Bhalla Preena , Dewan Richa
Published: June 2016

HIV related opportunistic fungal infections (OFIs) continue to cause morbidity and mortality in HIV infected patients. The objective for this prospective study is to elucidate the prevalence and spectrum of common OFIs in HIV/AIDS patients in north India. Relevant clinical samples were collected from symptomatic HIV positive patients (n=280) of all age groups and both sexes and subjected to direct microscopy and fungal culture. Identification as well as speciation of the fungal isolates was done as per the standard recommended methods. CD4+T cell counts were determined by flow cytometry using Fluorescent Activated Cell Sorter Count system. 215 fungal isolates were isolated with the isolation rate of 41.1%.Candidaspecies (86.5%) were the commonest followed byAspergillus(6.5%),Cryptococcus(3.3%),Penicillium(1.9%), andAlternariaandRhodotorulaspp. (0.9% each). AmongCandidaspecies,Candida albicans(75.8%) was the most prevalent species followed byC. tropicalis(9.7%),C. krusei(6.4%),C. glabrata(4.3%),C. parapsilosis(2.7%), andC. kefyr(1.1%). Study demonstrates that the oropharyngeal candidiasis is the commonest among different OFIs and would help to increase the awareness of clinicians in diagnosis and early treatment of these infections helping in the proper management of the patients especially in resource limited countries like ours.
Herbal Remedies for Coccidiosis Control: A Review of Plants, Compounds, and Anticoccidial Actions
Authors: Muthamilselvan Thangarasu , Kuo Tien-Fen , Wu Yueh-Chen , Yang Wen-Chin
Published: June 2016

Coccidiosis is the bane of the poultry industry causing considerable economic loss. Eimeria species are known as protozoan parasites to cause morbidity and death in poultry. In addition to anticoccidial chemicals and vaccines, natural products are emerging as an alternative and complementary way to control avian coccidiosis. In this review, we update recent advances in the use of anticoccidial phytoextracts and phytocompounds, which cover 32 plants and 40 phytocompounds, following a database search in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Four plant products commercially available for coccidiosis are included and discussed. We also highlight the chemical and biological properties of the plants and compounds as related to coccidiosis control. Emphasis is placed on the modes of action of the anticoccidial plants and compounds such as interference with the life cycle of Eimeria, regulation of host immunity to Eimeria, growth regulation of gut bacteria, and/or multiple mechanisms. Biological actions, mechanisms, and prophylactic/therapeutic potential of the compounds and extracts of plant origin in coccidiosis are summarized and discussed.
Chemical and Physical Characteristics in Uncultivated Soils with Different Lithology in Semiarid Mediterranean Clima
Authors: Moraetis Daniel , Lydakis-Simantiris Nikolaos , Pentari Despina , Manoutsoglou Emmanouil , Apostolaki Chryssa , Perdikatsis Vasilios
Published: June 2016

The aim of this study is to identify the chemical and physical characteristics in uncultivated soils derived from different parent materials under semiarid Mediterranean climatic conditions which favoured the formation of fragile soils. The current work is of great interest in the agriculture and environmental stakeholders for providing a “benchmark” of undisturbed soil quality regarding organic content and nutrients availability. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used as the primary tool to demonstrate the soil quality stage, regarding nutrient availability. The statistical analysis revealed that one of the major physicochemical characteristics such as cation exchange capacity (CEC) is controlled exclusively from mineralogy and not from organic matter. Mineralogy and bulk chemical analysis is directly related to soil parent material lithology. The availability of inorganic nutrients (macro- and micronutrients) is low and relatively identical to most of the soils. PCA shows the unusual correlation of K+with not only illite content but also the OM in soils. The development of soils which are already of low quality in respect of organic content and nutrients is evident in Crete in most of the 54 samples investigated.
Properties of Sago Particleboards Resinated with UF and PF Resin
Authors: Tay Chen Chiang , Hamdan Sinin , Osman Mohd Shahril B.
Published: June 2016

The sago processing industry in Mukah, Sarawak, had generated huge amount of sago waste after the milling process and scientists have employed the waste into composite material. In this work, sago residues were mixed with the Phenol Formaldehyde (PF) and Urea Formaldehyde (UF) for particleboard fabrication. The fabrication and testing methods are based on JIS A 5908 Standard. A single layer particleboard using sago particles was fabricated at targeted density of 600 kg/m3. Particles with weight fractions of 90%, 85%, and 80% with two different matrices were used in the fabrication. The results demonstrated that the samples with different weight fraction and matrix have great influence on the mechanical properties such as MOR, MOE, Young’s Modulus, tensile strength, impact strength, screw test, and internal bonding. The sago UF/PF particleboard only displays single stage decomposition. All the panels underwent physical tests which are water absorption and thickness swelling. The combination of sago particles with UF/PF can be utilized for general indoor application purposes such as furniture manufacturing. Sago particleboard made by UF/PF provided the advantages like optimized performance, minimized weight and volume, cost effectiveness, chemical resistance, and resistance to biodegradation.
Immunoregulatory Role of HLA-G in Allergic Diseases
Authors: Murdaca Giuseppe , Contini Paola , Negrini Simone , Ciprandi Giorgio , Puppo Francesco
Published: June 2016

Allergic diseases are sustained by a T-helper 2 polarization leading to interleukin-4 secretion, IgE-dependent inflammation, and mast cell and eosinophil activation. HLA-G molecules, both in membrane-bound and in soluble forms, play a central role in modulation of immune responses. Elevated levels of soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) molecules are detected in serum of patients with allergic rhinitis to seasonal and perennial allergens and correlate with allergen-specific IgE levels, clinical severity, drug consumption, and response to allergen-specific immunotherapy. sHLA-G molecules are also found in airway epithelium of patients with allergic asthma and high levels of sHLA-G molecules are detectable in plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage of asthmatic patients correlating with allergen-specific IgE levels. Finally, HLA-G molecules are expressed by T cells, monocytes-macrophages, and Langerhans cells infiltrating the dermis of atopic dermatitis patients. Collectively, although at present it is difficult to completely define the role of HLA-G molecules in allergic diseases, it may be suggested that they are expressed and secreted by immune cells during the allergic reaction in an attempt to suppress allergic inflammation.
Digital Cadavers: Online 2D Learning Resources Enhance Student Learning in Practical Head and Neck Anatomy within Dental Programs
Authors: Bakr Mahmoud M. , Massey Ward L. , Massa Helen M.
Published: June 2016

Head and neck anatomy provides core concepts within preclinical dental curricula. Increased student numbers, reduced curricula time, and restricted access to laboratory-based human resources have increased technology enhanced learning approaches to support student learning. Potential advantages include cost-effectiveness, off-campus access, and self-directed review or mastery opportunities for students. This study investigated successful student learning within a first-year head and neck anatomy course at the School of Dentistry and Oral Health, Griffith University, Australia, taught by the same teaching team, between 2010 and 2015. Student learning success was compared, for cohorts before and after implementation of a supplementary, purpose-designed online digital library and quiz bank. Success of these online resources was confirmed using overall students’ performance within the course assessment tasks and Student Evaluation of Course surveys and online access data. Engagement with these supplementary 2D online resources, targeted at improving laboratory study, was positively evaluated by students (mean 85%) and significantly increased their laboratory grades (mean difference 6%,P<0.027), despite being assessed using cadaveric resources. Written assessments in final exams were not significantly improved. Expanded use of supplementary online resources is planned to support student learning and success in head and neck anatomy, given the success of this intervention.
Novel Anticancer Agents Based on Targeting the Trimer Interface of the PRL Phosphatase
Authors: Bai Yunpeng , Yu Zhi-Hong , Liu Sijiu , Zhang Lujuan , Zhang Ruo-Yu , Zeng Li-Fan , Zhang Sheng , Zhang Zhong-Yin
Published: June 2016

Phosphatase of regenerating liver (PRL) oncoproteins are phosphatases overexpressed in numerous types of human cancer. Elevated levels of PRL associate with metastasis and poor clinical outcomes. In principle, PRL phosphatases offer appealing therapeutic targets, but they remain underexplored due to the lack of specific chemical probes. In this study, we address this issue by exploiting a unique property of PRL phosphatases, namely, that they may function as homotrimers. Starting from a sequential structure-based virtual screening and medicinal chemistry strategy, we identified Cmpd-43 and several analogs that disrupt PRL1 trimerization. Biochemical and structural analyses demonstrate that Cmpd-43 and its close analogs directly bind the PRL1 trimer interface and obstruct PRL1 trimerization. Cmpd-43 also specifically blocks the PRL1-induced cell proliferation and migration through attenuation of both ERK1/2 and Akt activity. Importantly, Cmpd-43 exerted potent anticancer activity both in vitro and in vivo in a murine xenograft model of melanoma. Our results validate a trimerization-dependent signaling mechanism for PRL and offer proof of concept for trimerization inhibitors as candidate therapeutics to treat PRL-driven cancers. Cancer Res; 76(16); 4805–15. ©2016 AACR.
CD271 Expression on Patient Melanoma Cells Is Unstable and Unlinked to Tumorigenicity
Authors: Boyle Samantha E. , Fedele Clare G. , Corbin Vincent , Wybacz Elisha , Szeto Pacman , Lewin Jeremy , Young Richard J. , Wong Annie , Fuller Robert , Spillane John , Speakman David , Donahoe Simon , Pohl Miklos , Gyorki David , Henderson Michael A. , Johnstone Ricky W. , Papenfuss Anthony T. , Shackleton Mark
Published: June 2016

The stability of markers that identify cancer cells that propagate disease is important to the outcomes of targeted therapy strategies. In human melanoma, conflicting data exist as to whether hierarchical expression of CD271/p75/NGFR (nerve growth factor receptor) marks cells with enriched tumorigenicity, which would compel their specific targeting in therapy. To test whether these discrepancies relate to differences among groups in assay approaches, we undertook side-by-side testing of published methods of patient-derived melanoma xenografting (PDX), including comparisons of tissue digestion procedures or coinjected Matrigel formulations. We found that CD271− and CD271+ melanoma cells from each of seven patients were similarly tumorigenic, regardless of assay variations. Surprisingly variable CD271 expression patterns were observed in the analyses of sibling PDX tumors (n = 68) grown in the same experiments from either CD271− or CD271+ cells obtained from patients. This indicates unstable intratumoral lineage relationships between CD271− and CD271+ melanoma cells that are inconsistent with classical, epigenetically based theories of disease progression, such as the cancer stem cell and plasticity models. SNP genotyping of pairs of sibling PDX tumors grown from phenotypically identical CD271− or CD271+ cells showed large pairwise differences in copy number (28%–48%). Differences were also apparent in the copy number profiles of CD271− and CD271+ cells purified directly from each of the four melanomas (1.4%–23%). Thus, CD271 expression in patient melanomas is unstable, not consistently linked to increased tumorigenicity and associated with genetic heterogeneity, undermining its use as a marker in clinical studies. Cancer Res; 76(13); 3965–77. ©2016 AACR.
PINK1 Is a Negative Regulator of Growth and the Warburg Effect in Glioblastoma
Authors: Agnihotri Sameer , Golbourn Brian , Huang Xi , Remke Marc , Younger Susan , Cairns Rob A. , Chalil Alan , Smith Christian A. , Krumholtz Stacey-Lynn , Mackenzie Danielle , Rakopoulos Patricia , Ramaswamy Vijay , Taccone Michael S. , Mischel Paul S. , Fuller Gregory N. , Hawkins Cynthia , Stanford William L. , Taylor Michael D. , Zadeh Gelareh , Rutka James T.
Published: June 2016

Proliferating cancer cells are characterized by high rates of glycolysis, lactate production, and altered mitochondrial metabolism. This metabolic reprogramming provides important metabolites for proliferation of tumor cells, including glioblastoma. These biological processes, however, generate oxidative stress that must be balanced through detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Using an unbiased retroviral loss-of-function screen in nontransformed human astrocytes, we demonstrate that mitochondrial PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) is a regulator of the Warburg effect and negative regulator of glioblastoma growth. We report that loss of PINK1 contributes to the Warburg effect through ROS-dependent stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factor-1A and reduced pyruvate kinase muscle isozyme 2 activity, both key regulators of aerobic glycolysis. Mechanistically, PINK1 suppresses ROS and tumor growth through FOXO3a, a master regulator of oxidative stress and superoxide dismutase 2. These findings highlight the importance of PINK1 and ROS balance in normal and tumor cells. PINK1 loss was observed in a significant number of human brain tumors including glioblastoma (n > 900) and correlated with poor patient survival. PINK1 overexpression attenuates in vivo glioblastoma growth in orthotopic mouse xenograft models and a transgenic glioblastoma model in Drosophila. Cancer Res; 76(16); 4708–19. ©2016 AACR.
Thrombosis in Cancer: Research Priorities Identified by a National Cancer Institute/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Strategic Working Group
Authors: Key Nigel S. , Khorana Alok A. , Mackman Nigel , McCarty Owen J.T. , White Gilbert C. , Francis Charles W. , McCrae Keith R. , Palumbo Joseph S. , Raskob Gary E. , Chan Andrew T. , Sood Anil K.
Published: June 2016

The risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) is increased in cancer and particularly with chemotherapy, and it portends poorer survival among patients with cancer. However, many fundamental questions about cancer-associated VTE, or Trousseau syndrome, remain unanswered. This report summarizes the proceedings of a working group assembled by the NCI and NHLBI in August 2014 to explore the state of the science in cancer-associated VTE, identify clinically important research gaps, and develop consensus on priorities for future research. Representing a convergence of research priorities between the two NIH Institutes, the workshop addressed epidemiologic, basic science, clinical, and translational issues in cancer-associated VTE. Cancer Res; 76(13); 3671–5. ©2016 AACR.
A Phase II Biomarker-Embedded Study of Lapatinib plus Capecitabine as First-line Therapy in Patients with Advanced or Metastatic Gastric Cancer
Authors: LaBonte Melissa J. , Yang Dongyun , Zhang Wu , Wilson Peter M. , Nagarwala Yasir M. , Koch Kevin M. , Briner Colleen , Kaneko Tomomi , Rha Sun-Young , Gladkov Oleg , Urba Susan G. , Sakaeva Dina , Pishvaian Michael J. , Hsieh Ruey-Kuen , Lee Wei-Ping , Lenz Heinz-Josef
Published: June 2016

An exploratory phase II biomarker-embedded trial (LPT109747; NCT00526669) designed to determine the association of lapatinib-induced fluoropyrimidine gene changes with efficacy of lapatinib plus capecitabine as first-line treatment for advanced gastric cancer or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma independent of tumor HER2 status. Tumor biopsies obtained before and after 7-day lapatinib (1,250 mg) to analyze changes in gene expression, followed by a 14-day course of capecitabine (1,000 mg/m2 twice daily, 14/21 days) plus lapatinib 1,250 mg daily. Blood samples were acquired for pharmacokinetic analysis. Primary clinical objectives were response rate (RR) and 5-month progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary objectives were overall survival (OS), PFS, time to response, duration of response, toxicity, and identification of associations between lapatinib pharmacokinetics and biomarker endpoints. Primary biomarker objectives were modulation of 5-FU-pathway genes by lapatinib, effects of germline SNPs on treatment outcome, and trough steady-state plasma lapatinib concentrations. Sixty-eight patients were enrolled; (75% gastric cancer, 25% gastroesophageal junction). Twelve patients (17.9%) had confirmed partial response, 31 (46.3%) had stable disease, and 16 (23.9%) had progressive disease. Median PFS and OS were 3.3 and 6.3 months, respectively. Frequent adverse events included diarrhea (45%), decreased appetite (39%), nausea (36%), and fatigue (36%). Lapatinib induced no changes in gene expression from baseline and no significant associations were found for SNPs analyzed. Elevated baseline HER3 mRNA expression was associated with a higher RR (33% vs. 0%; P = 0.008). Lapatinib plus capecitabine was well tolerated, demonstrating modest antitumor activity in patients with advanced gastric cancer. The association of elevated HER3 and RR warrants further investigation as an important player for HER-targeted regimens in combination with capecitabine. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(9); 2251–8. ©2016 AACR.
Creative Music Therapy in an Acute Care Setting for Older Patients with Delirium and Dementia
Authors: Cheong Chin Yee , Tan Jane An Qi , Foong Yi-Lin , Koh Hui Mien , Chen Denise Zhen Yue , Tan Jessie Joon Chen , Ng Chong Jin , Yap Philip
Published: June 2016

Background/Aims: The acute hospital ward can be unfamiliar and stressful for older patients with impaired cognition, rendering them prone to agitation and resistive to care. Extant literature shows that music therapy can enhance engagement and mood, thereby ameliorating agitated behaviours. This pilot study evaluates the impact of a creative music therapy (CMT) programme on mood and engagement in older patients with delirium and/or dementia (PtDD) in an acute care setting. We hypothesize that CMT improves engagement and pleasure in these patients. Methods: Twenty-five PtDD (age 86.5 ± 5.7 years, MMSE 6/30 ± 5.4) were observed for 90 min (30 min before, 30 min during, and 30 min after music therapy) on 3 consecutive days: day 1 (control condition without music) and days 2 and 3 (with CMT). Music interventions included music improvisation such as spontaneous music making and playing familiar songs of patient's choice. The main outcome measures were mood and engagement assessed with the Menorah Park Engagement Scale (MPES) and Observed Emotion Rating Scale (OERS). Results: Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed a statistically significant positive change in constructive and passive engagement (Z = 3.383, p = 0.01) in MPES and pleasure and general alertness (Z = 3.188,p = 0.01) in OERS during CMT. The average pleasure ratings of days 2 and 3 were higher than those of day 1 (Z = 2.466, p = 0.014). Negative engagement (Z = 2.582, p = 0.01) and affect (Z = 2.004, p = 0.045) were both lower during CMT compared to no music. Conclusion: These results suggest that CMT holds much promise to improve mood and engagement of PtDD in an acute hospital setting. CMT can also be scheduled into the patients' daily routines or incorporated into other areas of care to increase patient compliance and cooperation.
Altered PPARγ Coactivator-1 Alpha Expression in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Possible Effects on Mitochondrial Biogenesis
Authors: Gabrielson Marike , Vorkapic Emina , Folkesson Maggie , Welander Martin , Matussek Andreas , Dimberg Jan , Länne Toste , Skogberg Josefin , Wågsäter Dick
Published: June 2016

Introduction: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex and deadly vascular disorder. The pathogenesis of AAA includes destruction and phenotypic alterations of the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and aortic tissues. PPARγ coactivator-1 alpha (PGC1α) regulates VSMC migration and matrix formation and is a major inducer of mitochondrial biogenesis and function, including oxidative metabolism. Methods: Protein and gene expression of PGC1α and markers for mitochondria biogenesis and cell type-specificity were analysed in AAA aortas from humans and mice and compared against control aortas. Results: Gene expression of PPARGC1A was decreased in human AAA and angiotensin (Ang) II-induced AAA in mice when compared to control vessels. However, high expression of PGC1α was detected in regions of neovascularisation in the adventitia layer. In contrast, the intima/media layer of AAA vessel exhibited defective mitochondrial biogenesis as indicated by low expression of PPARGC1A, VDAC, ATP synthase and citrate synthase. Conclusion: Our results suggest that mitochondrial biogenesis is impaired in AAA in synthetic SMCs in the media, with the exception of newly formed supporting vessels in the adventitia where the mitochondrial markers seem to be intact. To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating PGC1α and mitochondria biogenesis in AAA.
Left Atrial Dysfunction in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients Treated by Hemodialysis
Authors: Malik Jan , Lachmanova Jana , Kudlicka Jaroslav , Rocinova Katarina , Valerianova Anna , Bartkova Magdalena , Tesar Vladimir
Published: June 2016

Background: Repeated inter-dialysis water retention contributes to the development of left ventricular hypertrophy and failure, which is responsible for significant mortality of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. The left atrium has a thin wall, which makes it even more prone to preload changes. In the general population with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), left atrial function is even worse than that in patients with reduced ejection fraction. We hypothesized that repeated water retention is related to left atrial dysfunction in ESRD patients treated by hemodialysis and that the expected changes would be related to the brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels. Methods: Forty six patients were enrolled. Left atrial end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes and left atrial ejection fraction (LAEF) were recorded by echocardiography just before and just after dialysis and then analyzed offline. Moreover, BNP was analyzed also prior to dialysis and after. Effects of dialysis were tested using paired t test and the correlation analysis was applied to test associations. Results: LAEF was inversely related to the dialysis vintage (r = -0.62, p = 0.001) and patient's age (r = -0.48, p = 0.005) and it did not increase after dialysis despite the decrease of left atrial volume. BNP was related to left atrial volume index (r = 0.45, p = 0.019) and to LAEF (r = -0.57, p = 0.003). Conclusions: LAEF is decreased especially in long-term dialyzed patients and does not improve after dialysis despite the decrease of left atrial volume. Inadequate contractility reserve of the left atrium is similar to the non-ESRD patients with HFpEF and might help explain the high prevalence of heart failure in ESRD patients.
ЕКОЛОГО-БІОЛОГІЧНІ, ЕПІДЕМІОЛОГІЧНІ ТА КЛІНІЧНІ АСПЕКТИ ЕНДЕМІЧНОГО ОСЕРЕДКУ ОПІСТОРХОЗУ В СУМСЬКІЙ ОБЛАСТІ
Authors: Chemych M. D. , Fotina T. I. , Fotina H. A. , Ilyina N. I. , Nazarenko S. M. , Ilyina V. V. , Frolova L. S.
Published: June 2016

На території Сумської області зареєстровано 4 види опісторхід: Opisthorchis felineus, Pseudamphisto­mum truncatum, Metorchis bilis і Metorchis xanthosomus. Встановлено, що осередки опісторхідозів в умовах досліджуваної території прив’язані, в першу чергу, до малих річок. Марити опісторхід у природних екосистемах Сумської області зареєстровані у 5 видів м’ясоїдних ссавців. В антропогенних екосистемах Сумської області провідну роль у циркуляції опісторхід відіграють домашні коти. Проведена оцінка зараження коропових риб метацеркаріями опісторхід. Встановлено, що домінантними з точки зору зараження і накопичення метацеркарій опісторхід є 3 види коропових риб: плітка, краснопірка і уклейка. Опісторхоз переважно перебігає латентно. З маніфестних форм хвороби найчастіше виявляється холецистит (78,6 %). Вирішальну роль у діагностиці хронічного опісторхозу має копроовоскопія (100 %). Групу ризику складають рибалки та члени їх сімей (71,9 %). Основним фактором передавання є солена та в’ялена риба.
АЛЬТЕРНАТИВНИЙ ЗАСІБ САНАЦІЇ РЕЗИДЕНТНИХ НОСІЇВ ЗОЛОТИСТОГО СТАФІЛОКОКА
Authors: Kotsar O. V. , Kochneva O. V. , Dolhova T. S. , Maluchenko A. Yu.
Published: June 2016

Роль золотистого стафілокока в етіологічній структурі гнійно-запальних інфекцій має особливе значення. Актуальною проблемою залишається вибір способу боротьби з бактеріоносіями. Одним з альтернативних шляхів є використання бактеріофагів. У ході дослідження була визначена чутливість штамів Staphylococcus аureus, вилучених від студентів-медиків Харківського національного медичного університету (ХНМУ), до дії бактеріофагів різних виробників. Чутливість визначали диско-дифузійним методом до таких бактеріофагів: стафілофаг (ФДУП «НВО «Микроген» МОЗ РФ, випуск м. Перм), піофаг (ФДУП «НВО «Микроген» МОЗ РФ, випуск м. Нижній Новгород) і стафілококовий бактеріофаг (фармацевтичний завод «Біофарм», м. Біла Церква, Україна). Результати дослідження показали, що більш ніж половина виділених штамів S. aureus, (68,75±6,69) %, були чутливими до стафілофага українського виробництва, до піофага та стафілофага російського виробника встановлена низька чутливість – (45,83±7,19) та (22,90±6,06) % відповідно.
КЛІНІКО-МОРФОЛОГІЧНІ ТА ФУНКЦІОНАЛЬНІ ЗМІНИ НИРОК У ВІЛ-ІНФІКОВАНИХ
Authors: Moskaliuk V. D. , Andrushchak M. O.
Published: June 2016

Встановлено, що вірус імунодефіциту людини (ВІЛ) вражає ниркову систему. Наведені дані, що високоактивна антиретровірусна терапія (ВААРТ) має негативний вплив на функціональний стан нирок. Також виявляються морфологічні та функціональні зміни у ВІЛ-інфікованих. У літературних джерелах описані поодинокі дані про медикаментозну корекцію цих змін.
Real-Time Flood Forecasting and Information System for the State of Iowa
Authors: Krajewski Witold F. , Ceynar Daniel , Demir Ibrahim , Goska Radoslaw , Kruger Anton , Langel Carmen , Mantilla Ricardo , Niemeier James , Quintero Felipe , Seo Bong-Chul , Small Scott J. , Weber Larry J. , Young Nathan C.
Published: June 2016

The Iowa Flood Center (IFC), established following the 2008 record floods, has developed a real-time flood forecasting and information dissemination system for use by all Iowans. The system complements the operational forecasting issued by the National Weather Service, is based on sound scientific principles of flood genesis and spatial organization, and includes many technological advances. At its core is a continuous rainfall–runoff model based on landscape decomposition into hillslopes and channel links. Rainfall conversion to runoff is modeled through soil moisture accounting at hillslopes. Channel routing is based on a nonlinear representation of water velocity that considers the discharge amount as well as the upstream drainage area. Mathematically, the model represents a large system of ordinary differential equations organized to follow river network topology. The IFC also developed an efficient numerical solver suitable for high-performance computing architecture. The solver allows the IFC to update forecasts every 15 min for over 1,000 Iowa communities. The input to the system comes from a radar-rainfall algorithm, developed in-house, that maps rainfall every 5 min with high spatial resolution. The algorithm uses Level II radar reflectivity and other polarimetric data from the Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Dual-Polarimetric (WSR-88DP) radar network. A large library of flood inundation maps and real-time river stage data from over 200 IFC “stream-stage sensors” complement the IFC information system. The system communicates all this information to the general public through a comprehensive browser-based and interactive platform. Streamflow forecasts and observations from Iowa can provide support for a similar system being developed at the National Water Center through model intercomparisons, diagnostic analyses, and product evaluations.
Segregation in Civic Life
Authors: Wiertz Dingeman
Published: June 2016

To what extent do voluntary organizations like sports, leisure, and neighborhood associations provide a platform where ethnic groups mingle and ethnic boundaries are overcome? This study uses unique panel data from the Netherlands Longitudinal Life Course Study (NELLS) to shed light on the integrative power of voluntary associations. I investigate decisions to join and leave associations of different ethnic composition, as a member or a volunteer, among individuals of Turkish, Moroccan, and native Dutch origin. In general, all ethnic groups are equally likely to join voluntary organizations, but ethnic minorities are more likely to leave than are Dutch natives, even after accounting for relevant sociodemographic characteristics. This alone explains ethnic minorities’ lower involvement rates. Moreover, joining decisions are characterized by strong ethnic sorting across organizations of different ethnic composition: people are much more likely to join associations containing fewer ethnic out-group members. This limits the potential of voluntary associations as pathways to social integration. In contrast, once the initial hurdle of getting involved has been taken, people are no more likely to disengage from organizations with more ethnic out-group members. Inter-ethnic neighborhood contact and the local supply of involvement opportunities are most influential in explaining the strong sorting tendencies in people’s joining decisions.
Time-Resolved Fluorescence of Water-Soluble Pyridinium Salt: Sensitive Detection of the Conformational Changes of Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Li Lei , Yi Hua , Jia Menghui , Chang Mengfang , Zhou Zhongneng , Zhang Sanjun , Pan Haifeng , Chen Yan , Chen Jinquan , Xu Jianhua
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we report a pyridinium salt “turn-on” fluorescent probe, 4-[2-(4-Dimethylamino-phenyl)-vinyl]-1-methylpyridinium iodide (p-DASPMI), and applied its time-resolved fluorescence (TRF) to monitor the protein conformational changes. Both the fluorescence lifetime and quantum yield (QY) of p-DASPMI were increased about two orders of magnitude after binding to the protein bovine serum albumin (BSA). The free p-DASPMI in solution presents an ultrashort fluorescence lifetime (12.4 ps), thus it does not interfere the detection of bound p-DASPMI which has nanosecond fluorescence lifetime. Decay-associated spectra (DAS) show that p-DASPMI molecules bind to subdomains IIA and IIIA of BSA. The TRF decay profiles of p-DASPMI can be described by the multi-exponential decay function ([Formula: see text]), and the obtained parameters, such as lifetimes ([Formula: see text]), fractional amplitudes ([Formula: see text]), and fractional intensities ([Formula: see text]), may be used to deduce the conformational changes of BSA. The pH and Cu2+ induced conformational changes of BSA were investigated through the TRF of p-DASPMI. The results show that the p-DASPMI is a candidate fluorescent probe in studying the conformational changes of proteins through TRF spectroscopy and microscopy in the visible range.
Addressing the Gender Gap
Authors: Córdova Abby , Rangel Gabriela
Published: June 2016

In light of gender disparities in political involvement, extant research has examined mechanisms for incorporating ordinary women into politics. We complement this literature by exploring the effect of an overlooked institution theorized to promote political equality by maximizing voter turnout: compulsory voting. We theorize that in enforced compulsory voting systems, women are more likely to receive and seek information about electoral choices than their counterparts in voluntary voting systems. Consequently, compulsory voting helps narrow the gender gap beyond voting by creating opportunities and motivations for women to engage with the electoral process and its main actors. Our multilevel analysis based on cross-national survey data lends strong support to our hypotheses. Countries with enforced mandatory voting laws display a much smaller gender gap not only in voting, but also in several other forms of electoral engagement, including political party information, campaign attentiveness, party attachment, and campaign participation.