bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metastatic Consequences of Immune Escape from NK Cell Cytotoxicity by Human Breast Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Wang Bin , Wang Qiang , Wang Zhe , Jiang Jun , Yu Shi-Cang , Ping Yi-Fang , Yang Jing , Xu Sen-Lin , Ye Xian-Zong , Xu Chuan , Yang Lang , Qian Cheng , Wang Ji Ming , Cui You-Hong , Zhang Xia , Bian Xiu-Wu
Published: August 2014

Breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSC) are crucial for metastasis but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we report that tumor-infiltrating natural killer (NK) cells failed to limit metastasis and were not associated with improved therapeutic outcome of BCSC-rich breast cancer. Primary BCSCs were resistant to cytotoxicity mediated by autologous/allogeneic NK cells due to reduced expression of MICA and MICB, two ligands for the stimulatory NK cell receptor NKG2D. Furthermore, the downregulation of MICA/MICB in BCSCs was mediated by aberrantly expressed oncogenic miR20a, which promoted the resistance of BCSC to NK cell cytotoxicity and resultant lung metastasis. The breast cancer cell differentiation–inducing agent, all-trans retinoic acid, restored the miR20a–MICA/MICB axis and sensitized BCSC to NK cell–mediated killing, thereby reducing immune escape–associated BCSC metastasis. Together, our findings reveal a novel mechanism for immune escape of human BCSC and identify the miR20a–MICA/MICB signaling axis as a therapeutic target to limit metastatic breast cancer. Cancer Res; 74(20); 5746–57. ©2014 AACR.
β-Catenin Contributes to Lung Tumor Development Induced by EGFR Mutations
Authors: Nakayama Sohei , Sng Natasha , Carretero Julian , Welner Robert , Hayashi Yuichiro , Yamamoto Mihoko , Tan Alistair J. , Yamaguchi Norihiro , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Li Danan , Soejima Kenzo , Soo Ross A. , Costa Daniel B. , Wong Kwok-Kin , Kobayashi Susumu S.
Published: August 2014

The discovery of somatic mutations in EGFR and development of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have revolutionized treatment for lung cancer. However, resistance to TKIs emerges in almost all patients and currently no effective treatment is available. Here, we show that β-catenin is essential for development of EGFR-mutated lung cancers. β-Catenin was upregulated and activated in EGFR-mutated cells. Mutant EGFR preferentially bound to and tyrosine phosphorylated β-catenin, leading to an increase in β-catenin–mediated transactivation, particularly in cells harboring the gefitinib/erlotinib-resistant gatekeeper EGFR-T790M mutation. Pharmacologic inhibition of β-catenin suppressed EGFR-L858R-T790M mutated lung tumor growth, and genetic deletion of the β-catenin gene dramatically reduced lung tumor formation in EGFR-L858R-T790M transgenic mice. These data suggest that β-catenin plays an essential role in lung tumorigenesis and that targeting the β-catenin pathway may provide novel strategies to prevent lung cancer development or overcome resistance to EGFR TKIs. Cancer Res; 74(20); 5891–902. ©2014 AACR.
Activated d16HER2 Homodimers and SRC Kinase Mediate Optimal Efficacy for Trastuzumab
Authors: Castagnoli Lorenzo , Iezzi Manuela , Ghedini Gaia C. , Ciravolo Valentina , Marzano Giulia , Lamolinara Alessia , Zappasodi Roberta , Gasparini Patrizia , Campiglio Manuela , Amici Augusto , Chiodoni Claudia , Palladini Arianna , Lollini Pier Luigi , Triulzi Tiziana , Menard Sylvie , Nanni Patrizia , Tagliabue Elda , Pupa Serenella M.
Published: August 2014

A splice isoform of the HER2 receptor that lacks exon 16 (d16HER2) is expressed in many HER2-positive breast tumors, where it has been linked with resistance to the HER2-targeting antibody trastuzumab, but the impact of d16HER2 on tumor pathobiology and therapeutic response remains uncertain. Here, we provide genetic evidence in transgenic mice that expression of d16HER2 is sufficient to accelerate mammary tumorigenesis and improve the response to trastuzumab. A comparative analysis of effector signaling pathways activated by d16HER2 and wild-type HER2 revealed that d16HER2 was optimally functional through a link to SRC activation (pSRC). Clinically, HER2-positive breast cancers from patients who received trastuzumab exhibited a positive correlation in d16HER2 and pSRC abundance, consistent with the mouse genetic results. Moreover, patients expressing high pSRC or an activated “d16HER2 metagene” were found to derive the greatest benefit from trastuzumab treatment. Overall, our results establish the d16HER2 signaling axis as a signature for decreased risk of relapse after trastuzumab treatment. Cancer Res; 74(21); 6248–59. ©2014 AACR.
Molecular Pathways: Autophagy in Cancer—A Matter of Timing and Context
Authors: Cicchini Michelle , Karantza Vassiliki , Xia Bing
Published: August 2014

Autophagy is an intracellular self-digestion mechanism, by which cellular components are sorted into double-membrane autophagosomes and delivered to lysosomes for degradation. Cells use autophagy to dispose of wastes and eliminate hazards, while recycling nutrients and tuning metabolism in the process. Through these functions, autophagy promotes cell fitness, genome integrity, tissue homeostasis, and cell survival and growth under stress. Both autophagy upregulation and downregulation have been found in human cancers, suggesting a complex role in tumor development. Accumulating results from autophagy-deficient mice and mouse models of human cancers have demonstrated that autophagy generally suppresses tumor initiation, but promotes tumor progression, in a manner that is dependent on timing and context and modified by specific tumorigenic events. Given the role of autophagy in facilitating tumor growth, autophagy inhibition has gained wide attention as a potential anticancer therapy. Here, we summarize relevant genetic, preclinical, and clinical studies and discuss the multifaceted role of autophagy in cancer, as well as the prospects of autophagy inhibition for cancer therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 21(3); 498–504. ©2014 AACR.
Complete Loss of PTEN Protein Expression Correlates with Shorter Time to Brain Metastasis and Survival in Stage IIIB/C Melanoma Patients withBRAFV600 Mutations
Authors: Bucheit Amanda D. , Chen Guo , Siroy Alan , Tetzlaff Michael , Broaddus Russell , Milton Denai , Fox Patricia , Bassett Roland , Hwu Patrick , Gershenwald Jeffrey E. , Lazar Alexander J. , Davies Michael A.
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Loss of function of PTEN is a frequent event in melanoma, particularly in tumors with BRAFV600 mutations. The prevalence, pathologic features, and clinical outcomes associated with PTEN loss in patients with stage IIIB/C melanoma were interrogated to improve our understanding of the clinical significance of this molecular event.

Experimental Design: Archival tissue from lymphadenectomy specimens among patients (n = 136) with stage IIIB or IIIC melanoma was assessed by DNA sequencing for activating BRAF and NRAS mutations, and by immunohistochemistry for the expression of PTEN protein. Associations of these molecular aberrations with demographics, tumor characteristics, and clinical outcomes were determined.

Results: The prevalence of BRAFV600 mutations (40% overall), NRAS mutations (10%), and PTEN loss (25%) did not vary by pathologic substage. BRAF/NRAS mutation status did not correlate with distant disease-free survival (DDFS) or overall survival (OS). Complete loss of PTEN expression correlated with shorter OS but not DDFS. When stratified by specific sites of distant metastasis, PTEN loss was associated with significantly shorter time to melanoma brain metastasis (MBM), but not to liver, lung, or bone metastasis. Analysis of PTEN in mutationally defined subsets showed that PTEN loss was significantly associated with OS and time to MBM in patients with BRAFV600 mutations.

Conclusions: Loss of PTEN protein expression correlates significantly with decreased OS and time to MBM in stage IIIB/C melanoma patients with BRAFV600 mutations. The findings add to evidence supporting a significant role for PTEN loss and the PI3K–AKT pathway in melanoma. Clin Cancer Res; 20(21); 5527–36. ©2014 AACR.
Sensor-Derived Physical Activity Parameters Can Predict Future Falls in People with Dementia
Authors: Schwenk Michael , Hauer Klaus , Zieschang Tania , Englert Stefan , Mohler Jane , Najafi Bijan
Published: August 2014

Background: There is a need for simple clinical tools that can objectively assess the fall risk in people with dementia. Wearable sensors seem to have the potential for fall prediction; however, there has been limited work performed in this important area. Objective: To explore the validity of sensor-derived physical activity (PA) parameters for predicting future falls in people with dementia. To compare sensor-based fall risk assessment with conventional fall risk measures. Methods: This was a cohort study of people with confirmed dementia discharged from a geriatric rehabilitation ward. PA was quantified using 24-hour motion-sensor monitoring at the beginning of the study. PA parameters (percentage of walking, standing, sitting, and lying; duration of single walking, standing, and sitting bouts) were extracted using specific algorithms. Conventional assessment included performance-based tests (Timed Up and Go Test, Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment, 5-chair stand) and questionnaires (cognition, ADL status, fear of falling, depression, previous faller). Outcome measures were fallers (at least one fall in the 3-month follow-up period) versus non-fallers. Results: 77 people were included in the study (age 81.8 ± 6.3; community-dwelling 88%, institutionalized 12%). Surprisingly, fallers and non-fallers did not differ on any conventional assessment (p = 0.069-0.991), except for ‘previous faller' (p = 0.006). Interestingly, several PA parameters discriminated between the groups. The ‘walking bout average duration', ‘longest walking bout duration' and ‘walking bout duration variability' were lower in fallers, compared to non-fallers (p = 0.008-0.027). The ‘standing bout average duration' was higher in fallers (p = 0.050). Two variables, ‘walking bout average duration' [odds ratio (OR) 0.79, p = 0.012] and ‘previous faller' (OR 4.44, p = 0.007) were identified as independent predictors for falls. The OR for a ‘walking bout average duration' <15 s for predicting fallers was 6.30 (p = 0.020). Combining ‘walking bout average duration' and ‘previous faller' improved fall prediction (OR 7.71, p < 0.001, sensitivity/specificity 72%/76%). Discussion: Results demonstrate that sensor-derived PA parameters are independent predictors of the fall risk and may have higher diagnostic accuracy in persons with dementia compared to conventional fall risk measures. Our findings highlight the potential of telemonitoring technology for estimating the fall risk. Results should be confirmed in a larger study and by measuring PA over a longer period of time.
Pertussis Toxin Administered Spinally Induces a Hypoglycemic Effect on Normal and Diabetic Mice
Authors: Sim Yun-Beom , Park Soo-Hyun , Kim Sung-Su , Lim Su-Min , Jung Jun-Sub , Lee Jin-Koo , Suh Hong-Won
Published: August 2014

Background/Aims: To show whether intrathecal (i.t.) treatment with pertussis toxin (PTX) produces a hypoglycemic effect in ICR, db/db and streptozotocin-treated mice. Methods: The blood glucose level (BGL) was measured after i.t. treatment with PTX, AB5 toxins and PTX subunits. Insulin or leptin levels were measured after PTX injection. The effect of PTX on the BGL was examined in adrenalectomized (ADX) mice. Glucose transporter (GLUT) levels were determined by Western blotting. Results: PTX attenuated the elevated BGL in the D-glucose-fed model in a long-term manner. Heat-labile toxin (HLT), HLT subunit B or Shiga toxin, which belong to the AB5 toxins, administered i.t. did not affect the BGL. PTX A protomer (PTX-A) or PTX B oligomers (PTX-B) injected i.t. did not have an effect on the BGL as well. However, combined treatment with PTX-A and PTX-B subunits caused a hypoglycemic effect. The leptin level was gradually reduced by PTX for up to 6 days, without affecting the insulin level. PTX administered i.t. significantly decreased the BGL further in ADX mice. Moreover, GLUT-2 (hypothalamus and pituitary gland), GLUT-4 (muscle) and GLUT-3 (adrenal gland) expression levels were increased, whereas GLUT-1 (brain cortex, liver, muscle and spinal cord), GLUT-2 (liver) and GLUT-3 (brain cortex and pituitary gland) expression levels were decreased. Discussion: Our data suggest that PTX administered spinally produces a hypoglycemic effect in a long-term manner, and PTX-induced hypoglycemia appears to be mediated by the reduction in activity of the glucocorticoid system. Furthermore, PTX may modulate the insulin level during hypoglycemia. Among GLUTs, GLUT-4 in muscle, GLUT-2 in the liver, hypothalamus and pituitary gland as well as GLUT-1 in the adrenal gland may be responsible for PTX-induced hypoglycemia.
Comparative Effects of a Novel Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor versus Captopril on Plasma Angiotensins after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Flores-Monroy Jazmín , Ferrario Carlos M. , Valencia-Hernández Ignacio , Hernández-Campos Maria Elena , Martínez-Aguilar Luisa
Published: August 2014

The compound 4-tert-butyl-2,6-bis(thiomorpholin-4-ylmethyl)phenol (TBTIF) has molecular characteristics similar to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors of the sulfhydryl subclass. To assess its value as a new therapeutic agent, we performed a comparative analysis of the effect of TBTIF versus captopril on the circulating levels of angiotensin (Ang) peptides and bradykinin as well as ACE and ACE2 expression after myocardial infarction. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: (1) sham-operated rats; (2) rats subjected to 48 h of coronary artery ligation; (3) rats administered captopril (1 mg/kg, i.m.), and (4) a similar group of rats given TBTIF (1 mg/kg, i.m.). Both drugs were administered 30 min before coronary artery ligation and again 24 h later. Acute myocardial infarction lowered both systolic and left ventricular systolic blood pressures compared to the sham group and increased plasma levels of Ang I, Ang II, Ang(1-7) and Ang(1-12). Administration of either captopril or TBTIF reversed the increases in plasma angiotensins. Interestingly, the levels of plasma Ang(1-7) achieved by administration of TBTIF reached values higher than those recorded with captopril. Both agents reversed the decreases in plasma concentrations of bradykinin; in addition, TBTIF upregulated ACE expression, while both agents suppressed the ACE2 upregulation induced by myocardial infarction. These results demonstrate a beneficial effect of the novel compound TBTIF in suppressing the acute surge in the circulating renin-angiotensin system activity induced by myocardial infarction. The greater effects of this compound in augmenting plasma Ang(1-7) concentrations may be highly significant as drugs which augment the concentration of this heptapeptide will exert cardioprotective actions in part by suppressing the hypertrophic and profibrotic actions of Ang II.
Rare Manifestation of a Craniovertebral Junction Anomaly: Is Blue Breath Holding Always Benign?
Authors: Udayakumaran Suhas
Published: August 2014

Breath-holding or reflex anoxic seizures predominantly occur in preschool children and usually resolve by late childhood, rarely persisting through adolescence and into adulthood. Investigations are generally unnecessary. Education and reassurance is the mainstay of management. In this report, the author describes a case in which an infant presented with breath-holding spells due to a significant craniovertebral anomaly, and underwent a C1-C2 posterior stabilization. Following the stabilization of his dislocation the breath-holding spells never reappeared. Authors have previously described a rare manifestation of craniovertebral junction anomaly. Additionally, it is important to recognize that in a subset of patients breath-holding spells may be hazardous and not benign.
Elevated Circulating PCSK-9 Concentration in Renal Failure Patients is Corrected by Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Konarzewski Marcin , Szolkiewicz Marek , Sucajtys-Szulc Elzbieta , Blaszak Joanna , Lizakowski Slawomir , Swierczynski Julian , Rutkowski Boleslaw
Published: August 2014

Background: A high level of circulating PCSK9 binds to the LDL receptor, reduces its cell's surface density and leads to hypercholesterolemia. The aim of this study was to examine the circulating PCSK9 level in patients with kidney disease. Methods: Out of the patients treated in our Departments we selected: (a) 44 patients with CKD stage 3 and 4 (b) 29 patients with CKD stage 5 on maintenance hemodialysis treatment; and (c) 20 patients after successful renal transplantation. Thirty-four subjects, without CKD formed the control group. Serum biochemical parameters' concentrations were assayed by a certified laboratory. Serum PCSK9 concentration was estimated by a commercially available ELISA kit. Results: The mean serum concentration of PCSK9 in patients with kidney disease was higher than in the control group (238.7 ± 64.5 vs. 536.7 ± 190.4; p < 0.001). A strong negative correlation between serum PCSK9 concentration and eGFR was found (r = -0.66; p < 0.001), as well as between serum concentrations of PCSK9 and total- (r = 0.482; p < 0.05) or LDL-cholesterol (r = 0.533; p < 0.05), but exclusively in patients not receiving statins. The elevated serum concentration of PCSK9 in patients before hemodialysis session declined afterwards, reaching the values observed in patients after kidney transplantation and in the control group. Conclusion: The circulating PCSK9 concentration is increased in patients with CKD; however, this is not accompanied by hypercholesterolemia. The positive correlations between PCSK9/TCh and PCSK9/LDL-Ch have been found only in patients not treated with statins. The elevated circulating PCSK9 level is corrected by maintenance hemodialysis treatment and normalized by a successful kidney transplantation.
Molecular Cytogenetic Search for Cryptic Sex Chromosomes in Painted Turtles Chrysemys picta
Authors: Valenzuela Nicole , Badenhorst Daleen , Montiel Eugenia E. , Literman Robert
Published: August 2014

Sex determination is triggered by factors ranging from genotypic (GSD) to environmental (ESD), or both GSD + EE (GSD susceptible to environmental effects), and its evolution remains enigmatic. The presence/absence of sex chromosomes purportedly separates species at the ESD end of the continuum from the rest (GSD and GSD + EE) because the evolutionary dynamics of sex chromosomes and autosomes differ. However, studies suggest that turtles with temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) are cryptically GSD and possess sex chromosomes. Here, we test this hypothesis in painted turtles Chrysemys picta (TSD), using comparative-genome-hybridization (CGH), a technique known to detect morphologically indistinguishable sex chromosomes in other turtles and reptiles. Our results show no evidence for the existence of sex chromosomes in painted turtles. While it remains plausible that cryptic sex chromosomes may exist in TSD turtles that are characterized by minor genetic differences that cannot be detected at the resolution of CGH, previous attempts have failed to identify sex-specific markers. Genomic sequencing should prove useful in providing conclusive evidence in this regard. If such efforts uncover sex chromosomes in TSD turtles, it may reveal the existence of a fundamental constraint for the evolution of a full spectrum of sex determination (from pure GSD to pure TSD) that is predicted theoretically. Finding sex chromosomes in ESD organisms would question whether pure ESD mechanisms exist at all in nature, or whether those systems currently considered pure ESD simply await the characterization of an underlying GSD architecture.
Ubiquitin-Like Protein ISG15 (Interferon-Stimulated Gene of 15 kDa) in Host Defense Against Heart Failure in a Mouse Model of Virus-Induced Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Rahnefeld Anna , Klingel Karin , Schuermann Anett , Diny Nicola L. , Althof Nadine , Lindner Anika , Bleienheuft Philipp , Savvatis Konstantinos , Respondek Dorota , Opitz Elisa , Ketscher Lars , Sauter Martina , Seifert Ulrike , Tschöpe Carsten , Poller Wolfgang , Knobeloch Klaus-Peter , Voigt Antje
Published: August 2014

Background—

Common causative agents in the development of inflammatory cardiomyopathy include cardiotropic viruses such as coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3). Here, we investigated the role of the ubiquitin-like modifier interferon-stimulated gene of 15 kDa (ISG15) in the pathogenesis of viral cardiomyopathy.

Methods and Results—

In CVB3-infected mice, the absence of protein modification with ISG15 was accompanied by a profound exacerbation of myocarditis and by a significant increase in mortality and heart failure. We found that ISG15 in cardiomyocytes contributed significantly to the suppression of viral replication. In the absence of an intact ISG15 system, virus titers were markedly elevated by postinfection day 8, and viral RNA persisted in ISG15
−/−
mice at postinfection day 28. Ablation of the ISG15 protein modification system in CVB3 infection predisposed mice to long-term disease with deposition of collagen fibers, all leading to inflammatory cardiomyopathy. We found that ISG15 acts as part of the intrinsic immunity in cardiomyocytes and detected no significant effects of ISG15 modification on the cellular immune response. ISG15 modification of CVB3 2A protease counterbalanced CVB3-induced cleavage of the host cell eukaryotic initiation factor of translation eIF4G in cardiomyocytes, thereby counterbalancing the shutoff of host cell translation in CVB3 infection. We demonstrate that ISG15 suppressed infectious virus yield in human cardiac myocytes and the induction of ISG15 in patients with viral cardiomyopathy.

Conclusions—

The ISG15 conjugation system represents a critical innate response mechanism in cardiomyocytes to fight the battle against invading pathogens, limiting inflammatory cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and death. Interference with the ISG15 system might be a novel therapeutic approach in viral cardiomyopathy.
Ethnofederalism: The Worst Form of Institutional Arrangement…?
Authors: Anderson Liam
Published: August 2014

Scholars are divided on the merits of ethnofederalism as an institutional approach to the management of ethnically divided societies. For some, ethnofederalism is a potentially workable compromise between the demands for independence of territorially concentrated ethnic groups and the desire of a common state to preserve its territorial integrity; for critics, it is a short-cut to secession and ultimate state collapse. The argument of critics is theoretically plausible, but an examination of the universe of post-1945 states with ethnofederal arrangements, both failures and successes, shows that ethnofederalism has succeeded more often than it has failed. Within this universe of cases, moreover, ethnofederalism has demonstrably outperformed institutional alternatives, and where ethnofederal systems have failed, they have failed where no institutional alternatives could plausibly have succeeded. The increasing enthusiasm among policymakers and practitioners for prescribing federal solutions to ethnic problems is both understandable and defensible in light of these findings.
Delegitimizing al-Qaida: Defeating an “Army Whose Men Love Death”
Authors: Long Jerry Mark , Wilner Alex S.
Published: August 2014

Deterring terrorism is no longer a provocative idea, but missing from the contemporary theoretical investigation is a discussion of how delegitimization might be used to manipulate and shape militant behavior. Delegitimization suggests that states and substate actors can use the religious or ideological rationale that informs terrorist behavior to influence it. In the case of al-Qaida, the organization has carefully elaborated a robust metanarrative that has proved to be remarkably successful as a recruitment tool, in identity formation for adherents, as public apologia and hermeneutic, and as a weapon of war—the so-called media jihad. In the wake of the upheaval of the Arab Spring, al-Qaida and its adherents have redeployed the narrative, promising a new social order to replace the region's anciens régimes. Delegitimization would have the United States and its friends and allies use al-Qaida's own narrative against it by targeting and degrading the ideological motivation that guides support for and participation in terrorism.
The Application of the Principle of Proportionality to Assess Compensation: Some Reflections Arising from the Case of Joseph Charles Lemire v. Ukraine
Authors: Faccio Sondra
Published: August 2014

In the last few years, the principle of proportionality has appeared with a certain frequency in international investment case law: arbitrators have employed it to determine whether the State’s regulatory measure under scrutiny represents a form of indirect expropriation, to assess violations of the fair and equitable treatment (‘fet’) standard, to counterbalance competing obligations drawn from international investment law and international human rights law, and to assess compensation. This article will focus on the so-called “quantum phase” – the part of the award devoted to the assessment of the monetary compensation due to the foreign investor for the breach of the investment treaty provision – and will discuss whether the principle of proportionality can effectively play a role in the assessment of compensation. The work will start from the analysis of the case of Joseph Charles Lemire v. Ukraine, where arbitrators expressly resorted to proportionality to verify whether the indemnity awarded to the claimant for the breach of the fet standard was adequate in light of the specific characteristics of the investment lato sensu and the investor, to then approach the issue of proportionality more in detail.
The Climate Regime:
Authors: Andresen Steinar
Published: August 2014

During its twenty years in existence, the climate regime has created some innovative new mechanisms but with little practical significance in terms of emission reductions, for they continue to rise. Over time, efforts by the climate negotiators have increased significantly but the effectiveness of the regime has not increased. The Kyoto Protocol’s second commitment period is weaker than its predecessor and there are presently no binding obligations for countries with 85 per cent of total emissions. The main reason for the slow progress is the extremely malign nature of the issue-area as it goes to the heart of virtually all global economic activity. All actors need to do more to increase the effectiveness of the regime, but this particularly applies to the increasingly strong emerging economies in the Group of 77. They cannot continue to ‘hide’ inside this group, if progress is to be made.
Options for a Compliance Mechanism in a 2015 Climate Agreement
Authors: Oberthür Sebastian
Published: August 2014

As parties to the un Framework Convention on Climate Change move towards developing ‘a Protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force’ in Paris in 2015, they are also addressing the question whether and in what form to include a compliance mechanism in the Paris agreement. This article explores options for incorporating a compliance mechanism into a 2015 climate agreement.
Modifying Our Society With Law
Authors: Peeters Marjan , Schomerus Thomas
Published: August 2014

This article concisely maps the characteristics of the eu regulatory approach to stimulate the increase in the share of renewable energy, and points out various legal and policy challenges, among which finding the optimal regulatory approach and balancing different interests when authorising renewable energy projects.
The identity of the invasive fouling bryozoan Watersipora subtorquata (d’Orbigny) and some other congeneric species
Authors: Vieira Leandro M. , Jones Mary Spencer , Taylor Paul D.
Published: August 2014

Watersipora subtorquata (d’Orbigny, 1852) has been widely reported as a fouling species from tropical to temperate waters. The continued confusion over the correct name for this species led us to provide a redescription of d’Orbigny’s type of Cellepora subtorquata, and to make comparisons with other species of Watersipora. We show that the majority of specimens assigned to W. subovoidea (d’Orbigny, 1852) are morphologically distinct from the recently erected neotype of W. subovoidea; these specimens are here reidentified as Watersipora subtorquata. Other specimens previously assigned to W. subtorquata belong to W. subatra (Ortmann, 1890), described originally from Japan. Owing these inconsistences, we suggest setting aside the neotype of Watersipora subovoidea, which is based on Busk’s Lepralia cucullata and is not from the same locality as d’Orbigny’s type. Watersipora cucullata is redescribed and figured using Busk’s specimens; the species is known from the Mediterranean, including the Adriatic. Three other species—Watersipora atrofusca (Busk, 1856), Watersipora aterrima (Ortmann, 1890) and Watersipora nigra (Canu & Bassler, 1930)—are also refigured. Watersipora edmondsoni Soule & Soule, 1975 is synonymised with W. subtorquata (d’Orbigny). Two new species are described, Watersipora mawatarii n. sp. from Japan and Watersipora souleorum n. sp. from the Azores, Cape Verde, Naples and Indian Ocean. A key is given to the Recent species of Watersipora.
Two new species and new records of Microprosthema Stimpson, 1860 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Stenopodidea: Spongicolidae) from the Indo-West Pacific
Authors: SAITO TOMOMI , ANKER ARTHUR
Published: August 2014

Two new species of the spongicolid shrimp genus Microprosthema Stimpson, 1860 are described and illustrated on the basis of material collected recently in Australia and Japan. Type specimens of Microprosthema ningaloo sp. nov. were collected on Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia, whereas type specimens of Microprosthema pallidum sp. nov. were collected on a coral reef off Ishigaki Island, Ryukyu Archipelago, southern Japan. Microprosthema ningaloo sp. nov. and M. pallidum sp. nov. differ from all other species of the genus by a combination of morphological characters, including the gill-exopod formulae, and by their diagnostic colour patterns. This study increases the total number of species described in the genus Microprosthema to 16, nine of them in the Indo-West Pacific. In addition, new records are provided for M. lubricum Saito & Okuno, 2011 (Guam), M. plumicorne (Richters, 1880) (Red Sea, Mariana and Marshall Islands, French Polynesia), M. scabricaudatum (Richters, 1880) (Red Sea, Glorieuses and Tuamotu Islands), and M. validum Stimpson, 1860 (Red Sea, Madagascar, Singapore, French Polynesia), significantly extending their previously known distribution ranges.
Onciderini Thomson, 1860 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae) types of The Natural History Museum (BMNH)
Authors: NEARNS EUGENIO H. , BARCLAY MAXWELL V.L. , TAVAKILIAN GÉRARD L.
Published: August 2014

The primary types of Onciderini Thomson, 1860 deposited at The Natural History Museum (BMNH), London, United Kingdom, are catalogued and illustrated. Data on the original combination, current name, and type locality are verified and presented. There are 39 primary types of Onciderini including 11 in Oncideres Lacordaire, 1830; and three each in Hesycha Fairmaire & Germain, 1859; Hypselomus Perty, 1832; Lamia Fabricius, 1775; and Tybalmia Thomson, 1868. Of the 39 primary types, 17 were described by H. W. Bates and seven by F. P. Pascoe. Five lectotypes are designated. Notes on additional Onciderini types once believed to be deposited at the BMNH are presented.
Two new species of Geodiscelis Michener & Rozen (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Colletidae) with a phylogenetic analysis and subgeneric classification of the genus
Authors: PACKER LAURENCE , DUMESH SHEILA
Published: August 2014

Two new species of the genus Geodiscelis are described: Geodiscelis nazcalinea Packer & Dumesh, sp. nov. from Peru (the first record of the genus from that country) and G. phisquiri Packer & Dumesh, sp. nov. from northern Chile. The new species are most closely related to G. longiceps, but differ primarily in having somewhat less elongate heads and in details of the male terminalia. A key to the five known species of the genus is provided as are the results of a phylogenetic analysis based upon 68 characters, and the genus is formally divided into three subgenera: Geodiscelis s. str. Michener and Rozen, Geodiscelis (Nazcoediscelis) Packer and Dumesh, subgenus nov. and Geodiscelis (Thaumoediscelis) Packer and Dumesh, subgenus nov. The two new species described herein belong to subgenus Geodiscelis (Nazcoediscelis). Figures of the most important characters are provided. Tiquilia sp. (Boraginaceae) is the probable floral host of both new species and it is suggested that all species are ground-nesters. Sexual dimorphism in an unusual character is recorded for G. thaumaskelos Packer.
New species and records of Macrodactylus Dejean (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae: Macrodactylini) from Bolivia
Authors: ARCE-PÉREZ ROBERTO , MORÓN MIGUEL ÁNGEL
Published: August 2014

Two new species of Macrodactylus Dejean (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) from Bolivia are described and illustrated: M. megaphyllus new species (from Comarapa, Santa Cruz and Sehuenca, Cochabamba) and M. yunganus new species (from Mairana and Comarapa, Santa Cruz). In addition, the species Macrodactylus bolivianus Moser, M. gracilis Moser, and M. nobilis Frey are redescribed and illustrated to help facilitate identification of these species. A key to the 10 species of Macrodactylus presently known from Bolivia is provided.
Numerical Simulations of Bow Echo Formation Following a Squall Line–Supercell Merger
Authors: French Adam J. , Parker Matthew D.
Published: August 2014

Output from idealized numerical simulations is used to investigate the storm-scale processes responsible for squall-line evolution following a merger with an isolated supercell. A simulation including a squall line–supercell merger is compared to one using the same initial squall line and background environment without the merger. These simulations reveal that while bow echo formation is favored by the strongly sheared background environment, the merger produces a more compact bowing structure owing to a locally enhanced rear-inflow jet. The merger also represents a favored location for severe weather production relative to other portions of the squall line, with surface winds, vertical vorticity, and rainfall all being maximized in the vicinity of the merger.

An analysis of storm-scale processes reveals that the premerger squall line weakens as it encounters outflow from the preline supercell, and the supercell becomes the leading edge of the merged system. Subsequent localized strengthening of the cold pool and rear-inflow jet produce a compact, intense bow echo local to the merger, with a descending rear-inflow jet creating a broad swath of damaging surface winds. These features, common to severe bow echoes, are shown to be a direct result of the merger in the present simulations, and are diminished or absent in the no-merger simulation. Sensitivity tests reveal that mergers in a weaker vertical wind shear environment do not produce an enhanced bow echo structure, and only produce a localized region of marginally enhanced surface winds. Additional tests demonstrate that the details of postmerger evolution vary with merger location along the line.
Serum Gamma-glutamyltransferase Levels Predict the Progression of Coronary Artery Calcification in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Gang Li , Wei-Hua Lu , Rong Ai , Jian-Hong Yang , Zi-Hua Zhou , Zhong-Zhi Tang
Published: August 2014

Progression of coronary artery calcification (CAC) may be more predictive of future coronary heart disease events than a baseline CAC score. We determined whether serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity can independently predict the progression of CAC in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Patients (n = 326) without symptomatic cardiovascular (CV) disease were evaluated by CAC imaging. The CAC scores were assessed at baseline and after 20 ± 4 months. Serum GGT activities were significantly higher in progressors compared with nonprogressors (39 ± 16 vs 27 ± 11 U/L, P < .001). Multivariable analyses demonstrated that GGT activity retained a strong association with CAC progression after adjustment for CV risk factors. Additionally, there was a graded association between GGT activity quartile and annualized CAC progression. In asymptomatic patients with T2DM, we prospectively found that serum GGT activity may be an independent predictor of CAC progression but not a predictor of CAC incidence.
Atrial Fibrillation Is Associated With Increased Mean Platelet Volume and Apnea Hypopnea Index in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Akyüz Aydın , Akkoyun Dursun Çayan , Değirmenci Hasan , Alp Recep
Published: August 2014

This study investigated whether there is a relationship between atrial fibrillation (AF), mean platelet volume (MPV), and apnea hypopnea index (AHI) in patients who have obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). We enrolled patients who had OSAS with either AF or normal sinus rhythm (NSR). We divided 90 patients (aged 50-80 years) into 2 groups: group 1 consisted of 40 patients with OSAS having AF and group 2 of 50 patients with OSAS having NSR. Mean platelet volume was higher in patients with AF than in those with NSR (9.8 ± 0.6 vs 8.4 ± 0.6 fL; P < .001). The MPV and AHI were substantial variables associated with AF (odds ratio [OR] = 2.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.36-5.26; P < .004 and OR = 1.91; 95% CI, 1.26-3.32; P = .02). Elevated MPV value of ≥9.4 fL is associated with AF (70% sensitivity and 63% specificity). More research is needed to establish the clinical relevance of this association.
Bringing democracy back in: The democratic peace, parliamentary war powers and European participation in the 2003 Iraq War
Authors: Dieterich Sandra , Hummel Hartwig , Marschall Stefan
Published: August 2014

Referring to Kant’s ‘Perpetual Peace’, research on the democratic peace is based on the assumption that citizens’ preferences are fully and directly transferred into actual security policy by democratic leaders. However, democratic responsiveness in foreign politics is a more complex issue. Parliaments are usually key institutions with regard to ensuring responsiveness of democratic leaders both by authorizing political decisions and by monitoring executive policy-making and implementation. However, in several democracies military security policy-making is understood as part of an ‘executive prerogative’. This article examines the role of parliaments in providing for democratic responsiveness of security policy-making. We test the hypothesis that, depending on the extent of their ‘war powers’, parliaments do effectively limit the scope of executive security policy if and when public opinion strongly opposes military action. The decision-making of 25 European democracies on military participation in the 2003 Iraq War serves as a test. Testing the hypothesis we find that countries with strong parliamentary war powers tended to be significantly less involved in the military intervention against Iraq. However, several puzzles of a theory of ‘parliamentary peace’ remain to be addressed by future research.
Assessing the alcohol–BMI relationship in a US national sample of college students
Authors: Barry Adam E , Piazza-Gardner Anna K , Holton M Kim
Published: August 2014

Objective:

This study sought to assess the body mass index (BMI)–alcohol relationship among a US national sample of college students.

Design:

Secondary data analysis using the Fall 2011 National College Health Assessment (NCHA).

Setting:

A total of 44 US higher education institutions.

Methods:

Participants included a national sample of college students ( N = 27,774). BMI, frequency of alcohol consumption and binge drinking were measured based on responses to items in the NCHA. T-tests and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) identified differences in BMI based on drinking status and sex.

Results:

Drinkers exhibited significantly lower BMIs than non-drinkers, t(26,968) = 5.55, p < .001. Binge drinkers exhibited significantly lower BMIs than non-binge-drinkers, t(27,094) = 2.64, p < .001. A significant interaction for drinking frequency and sex existed, F(5, 20,434) = 4.121, p = .001, but no interaction effect was present for sex and binge drinking frequency. Respondents drinking 1–20 days/month had lower BMIs compared to non-drinkers. Furthermore, frequency of past month drinking (β = −.08, p < .001) made a unique contribution to explaining BMI, such that BMI decreased as the days one consumed alcohol increased.

Conclusion:

Non-drinkers exhibited significantly higher BMIs than drinkers, regardless of whether consumption was measured as drinking status, frequency of past 30 day use, or binge drinking frequency. Findings build on previous literature which has produced mixed results depending on the operationalisation of alcohol use. Future research into why differences exist in BMI among drinkers versus non-drinkers is warranted.
FEM analysis and analytical formulas to predict the indentation response of circular simply supported GLARE plates
Authors: Bikakis George SE
Published: August 2014

This article deals with the static response of thin circular simply supported GLAss REinforced fiber-metal laminates subjected to lateral indentation. The indentation response is initially predicted using ANSYS software and a three-dimensional (3D) nonlinear finite element analysis with geometric and material nonlinearities. From this analysis, the load-indentation and the strain energy-indentation curves are calculated. Regression of the obtained Finite Element Method (FEM) results, that takes into account a specific load-indentation relation, and comparison with previously published analytical formulas concerning the indentation of circular clamped GLAss REinforced plates, yields analytical formulas for the prediction of the GLAss REinforced plate indentation load and strain energy as a function of the central plate deflection. The derived analytical formulas are applied for GLAss REinforced 2-2/1-0.3, GLAss REinforced 3-3/2-0.4, and GLAss REinforced 3-3/2-0.3 circular plates with various diameters subjected to lateral indentation. The analytically predicted load-indentation and strain energy-indentation curves are compared with corresponding FEM results and a very good agreement is found.
The Many Heads of the Hydra: Local Parafascism in Spain and Europe, 1936–50
Authors: Rodríguez Barreira Óscar
Published: August 2014

This article aims to draw attention to a body of research that is now more than two decades old in Spain: the workings and composition of local government under the dictatorship of General Francisco Franco. Recent research into provincial governments, city halls, and provincial and local Assemblies of Spanish Traditionalist Phalanx of the JONS (Falange Española y Tradicionalista de las JONS, FET-JONS) during the Spanish Civil War and first period of Francoism from 1936 to 1950 can contribute greatly to wider discussions on fascism in Europe and redress how historians of fascism have sidelined Francoism despite its longevity and unique characteristics. This article argues that by defining parafascism in its own right, by what it was rather than what it was not, and by defining fascistization as a dynamic process, studies of Francoism at the local level can fill a gap in debate on generic fascism and help to construct a decentralized transnational history of fascism, parafascism, and conservatism. 1
Japanese War Criminals in Indochina and the French Pursuit of Justice: Local and International Constraints
Authors: Trefalt Beatrice
Published: August 2014

After the French liberation of May 1945, General Charles de Gaulle warned the government of Japan that France would be uncompromising in its pursuit of those responsible for war crimes against the population in Indochina. However, by the time the war ended and these ideals had to be put into practice, French determination to punish war criminals had to accommodate the constraints of the French position in the postwar world generally, and Indochina in particular. This article examines how the trials, the imprisonment, the transfer to Japan and the eventual release of Japanese war criminals in and from Saigon were shaped by complex political issues, both in Indochina and in the wider international context. It argues that, as well as representing an attempt to mete out justice on behalf of the victims of Japanese atrocities in Indochina, the trials functioned symbolically to rehabilitate France in Asia: to demonstrate the legitimacy of its position amongst the victorious Allied nations after a chequered wartime history, and to validate its claims to be the rightful political authority over Indochina. However, France’s interest in maintaining the sentences for Japanese war criminals diminished together with the gradual realization that France’s grasp on the Asian part of its colonial empire was slipping.
A Perfect Storm
Authors: Budig Gene A.
Published: August 2014

America's economic and political leaders should be concerned about the state of teacher recruitment and retention. A major teacher shortage has been predicted, and Mr. Budig relates how the College Board's Center for Innovative Thought proposes to bring greater prestige to the teaching profession.
It Can Be Done, It's Being Done, and Here's How
Authors: Chenoweth Karin
Published: August 2014

All schools could learn something from the qualities shared by schools that have been successful in educating poor and minority students to high levels.
The Superintendent as Teacher
Authors: D'Auria John
Published: August 2014

Facing a new job as a superintendent, a veteran educator finds that his teaching skills still are his most important tools.
The Next Generation of Learning Teams
Authors: Carroll Tom
Published: August 2014

Cross-generational learning teams that bring together novice teachers with veteran teachers would address problems at both ends of the teacher pipeline — and benefit student learning at the same time.
Accelerating Teacher Effectiveness: Lessons Learned from Two Decades of New Teacher Induction
Authors: Moir Ellen
Published: August 2014

The best induction programs blend support for novice teachers with expertise from veteran teachers, creating collegial groups that benefit all teachers and all students.
Hiring Highly Qualified Teachers Begins with Quality Interviews
Authors: Clement Mary C.
Published: August 2014

Past behavior is the best predictor of future performance, so educators would be wise to craft interview questions that explore past experiences, skills, and behaviors of job candidates.
Ready, Set, Recruit for Teaching
Authors: Swanson Peter B.
Published: August 2014

The prime time to talk with teenagers about becoming a teacher is when they are 15 or 16 years old.
Induction Programs That Work
Authors: Gilles Carol , Davis Barbara , McGlamery Sheryl
Published: August 2014

Universities working in collaboration with school districts have created programs that benefit both, as well as supporting novice teachers.
“On the Run, in the Real”
Authors: Maloy Robert W. , Gagne Kathleen , Verock-O'Loughlin Ruth-Ellen
Published: August 2014

Teacher candidates describe their year in an immersion preparation program.
Getting Human Rights “Right”: Teaching for Informed Commitment
Authors: Weinland Thomas P.
Published: August 2014

If students are to truly understand human rights issues, they need to examine some unpleasant materials, ask some unpleasant questions, and perhaps make some unpleasant choices.
From Experience to Meaning: The Critical Skills Program
Authors: Thomas Laura
Published: August 2014

Critical Skills classrooms are an effective way to involve students in a learning community.
Six Lessons for Pursuing Excellence and Equity at Scale
Authors: Childress Stacey M.
Published: August 2014

Efforts in Montgomery County, Maryland, to “raise the bar and close the gap” depended on deep changes.
Closing the Teaching Gap
Authors: Stigler James W. , Hiebert James
Published: August 2014

The hard work of improving teaching in the United States can't succeed without changes in the culture of teacher learning.
Nature vs. Nurture in Special Education
Authors: Marks Susan Unok
Published: August 2014

Schools are organized as if nature has already won the contest