bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reciprocal Learning Among Preceptors and Athletic Training Students During Clinical Education, Part II: Facilitators and Barriers
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Dodge Thomas M. , Bowman Thomas G.
Published: January 2016

Context:

Reciprocal learning appears to be occurring in athletic training clinical education. Students and preceptors can learn from one another, particularly if both parties are open to learning from each other.

Objective:

Examine facilitators and barriers to reciprocal learning in the athletic training clinical education setting.

Design:

Exploratory qualitative study.

Setting:

Athletic training programs.

Patients or Other Participants:

Our recruitment, which was based upon data redundancy, included 10 preceptors and 10 athletic training students. The preceptors had an average of 5 ± 3.5 years of experience supervising students. The athletic training student sample consisted of 8 seniors and 2 juniors.

Main Outcome Measures:

Participants responded to a series of questions by journaling their thoughts and opinions. Data were collected and stored on QuestionPro, a secure website. Data were analyzed by a general inductive approach. Credibility was established by (1) researcher triangulation, (2) peer review, and (3) member checks.

Results:

The relationship between the preceptor and the student along with reception to reciprocal learning emerged as facilitators, while a lack of confidence on the students’ behalf and time constraints can limit chances for reciprocal learning.

Conclusions:

Reciprocal learning has been identified as being mutually beneficial to the student and preceptor. Our findings highlight that for this type of learning to be successful, there has to be a communal interest in learning and that the use of current clinical cases and students’ current coursework provide benchmarks for discussion and learning.
Reciprocal Learning Among Preceptors and Athletic Training Students During Clinical Education, Part I: Frequency and Perceived Value
Authors: Dodge Thomas M. , Guyer M. Susan , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Bowman Thomas G.
Published: January 2016

Research has identified that learning in the clinical education setting can be reciprocal between preceptors and athletic training students. However, the frequency of and the potential benefits to reciprocal learning are not fully understood. The purpose of the current study was to explore the frequency and perceived value of reciprocal learning in clinical education from both the athletic training student and preceptor perspective. Reciprocal learning was identified by preceptors and athletic training students as occurring frequently during clinical education. Preceptors and athletic training students valued the opportunity to learn from one another.
Immediate Effects of Dynamic Neck Training Combined with the Hold-Relax Technique for Young College Students with Video Display Terminal Syndrome
Authors: Lee Hyun-Mu , Park Du-Jin , Kim Seong-Yeol
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this study was to identify the changes in the cervical range of motion (CROM), the cervical flexion-relaxation ratio (CFRR), and neck pain after dynamic neck training (DNT) combined with hold-relax technique (HRT) for young college students with video display terminal (VDT) syndrome. For this study, 15 young college students with VDT syndrome were recruited. DNT combined with HRT was applied to all participants in a sitting position for 15 min. Postintervention, the CROM and the CFRR were significantly higher than preintervention, and neck pain had significantly decreased. DNT combined with HRT showed immediate effects on the CROM, the CFRR, and neck pain in young college students with VDT syndrome.
Personal and Environmental Characteristics Associated With Burnout in Athletic Trainers: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Gibson Amy M. , Cohen Gary W. , Boyce Kelly K. , Houston Megan N. , Bacon Cailee E. Welch
Published: January 2016

Clinical Question: What personal and environmental characteristics are associated with burnout in athletic trainers, as measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and Athletic Training Burnout Inventory (ATBI)? Clinical Bottom Line: There is strong evidence suggesting that personal and environmental factors are associated with burnout in athletic trainers, as measured by the MBI and ATBI. While it is difficult to identify a single contributing factor that increases the athletic trainer’s perception of burnout, athletic trainers should be aware of the characteristics associated with the condition and take appropriate action to reduce the risk of burnout.
Clinical Applications of Therapeutic Modalities Among Collegiate Athletic Trainers, Part II: Thermotherapy
Authors: Hawkins Jeremy R. , Hawkins Shawn W.
Published: January 2016

Thermotherapy is commonly used by athletic trainers. Data are lacking as to how athletic trainers treat common injuries with thermotherapy. The purpose of this study was to ascertain how collegiate athletic trainers approach the use of thermotherapy and whether that usage reflects what current knowledge we have of thermotherapy. Survey results indicated respondents took three different approaches to the treatment of three different types of injuries. The majority of their approaches were applied according to current knowledge. Treatment guidelines could be strengthened with additional clinical outcomes data. Certain aspects of the application of the different thermotherapies should be reviewed and use adjusted accordingly.
Data gaps limit the translational potential of preclinical research
Authors: Kleiman Robin J. , Ehlers Michael D.
Published: January 2016

The absence of mouse pharmacokinetic reference data hinders translation of preclinical research.
A mouse-human phase 1 co-clinical trial of a protease-activated fluorescent probe for imaging cancer
Authors: Whitley Melodi Javid , Cardona Diana M. , Lazarides Alexander L. , Spasojevic Ivan , Ferrer Jorge M. , Cahill Joan , Lee Chang-Lung , Snuderl Matija , Blazer Dan G. , Hwang E. Shelley , Greenup Rachel A. , Mosca Paul J. , Mito Jeffrey K. , Cuneo Kyle C. , Larrier Nicole A. , O’Reilly Erin K. , Riedel Richard F. , Eward William C. , Strasfeld David B. , Fukumura Dai , Jain Rakesh K. , Lee W. David , Griffith Linda G. , Bawendi Moungi G. , Kirsch David G. , Brigman Brian E.
Published: January 2016

A first-in-human phase 1 clinical trial of the PEGylated protease-activated fluorescent probe, LUM015, enables tumor imaging at a safe and tolerable dose in humans.
Sources of HIV infection among men having sex with men and implications for prevention
Authors: Ratmann Oliver , van Sighem Ard , Bezemer Daniela , Gavryushkina Alexandra , Jurriaans Suzanne , Wensing Annemarie , de Wolf Frank , Reiss Peter , Fraser Christophe ,   ATHENA observational cohort
Published: January 2016

Available antiretrovirals both for treatment and prevention and more comprehensive HIV testing would have prevented the majority of past, annual HIV transmissions among MSM in the Netherlands, but none of the three interventions in isolation.
Is Huntington’s disease a neurodevelopmental disorder?
Authors: Brennand Kristen
Published: January 2016

Gene expression analysis of patient-derived Huntington’s disease neural stem cells and corrected isogenic controls suggests that the first steps in disease pathogenesis may occur during fetal development.
Influenza antibody archaeology
Authors: Wang Taia T.
Published: January 2016

Broadly neutralizing antibodies against influenza viruses evolve in a stepwise process that begins with strain-specific antibodies
.
The Zinc Finger Protein Mig1 Regulates Mitochondrial Function and Azole Drug Susceptibility in the Pathogenic Fungus Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Caza Mélissa , Hu Guanggan , Price Michael , Perfect John R. , Kronstad James W.
Published: January 2016

Fungal pathogens of humans are difficult to treat, and there is a pressing need to identify new targets for antifungal drugs and to obtain a detailed understanding of fungal proliferation in vertebrate hosts. In this study, we examined the roles of the regulatory proteins Mig1 and HapX in mitochondrial function and antifungal drug susceptibility in the fungus
Cryptococcus neoformans
. This pathogen is a particular threat to the large population of individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Our analysis revealed regulatory interactions between Mig1 and HapX, and a role for Mig1 in mitochondrial functions, including respiration, tolerance for reactive oxygen species, and expression of genes for iron consumption and iron acquisition functions. Importantly, loss of Mig1 increased susceptibility to the antifungal drug fluconazole, which is commonly used to treat cryptococcal disease
.
These studies highlight an association between mitochondrial dysfunction and drug susceptibility that may provide new targets for the development of antifungal drugs.
The space-dependent model and output characteristics of intra-cavity pumped dual-wavelength lasers
Authors: He Jin-Qi , Dong Yuan , Zhang Feng-Dong , Yu Yong-Ji , Jin Guang-Yong , Liu Li-Da
Published: January 2016

The intra-cavity pumping scheme which is used to simultaneously generate dual-wavelength lasers was proposed and published by us and the space-independent model of quasi-three-level and four-level intra-cavity pumped dual-wavelength lasers was constructed based on this scheme. In this paper, to make the previous study more rigorous, the space-dependent model is adopted. As an example, the output characteristics of 946 nm and 1064 nm dual-wavelength lasers under the conditions of different output mirror transmittances are numerically simulated by using the derived formula and the results are nearly identical to what was previously reported.
Recovery Rate in the Event of an Issuer’s Insolvency — Empirical Study on Implications for the Pricing of Credit Default Risks in German Corporate Bonds
Authors: Friesenegger Alexander , Rathgeber Andreas W. , Stöckl Stefan
Published: January 2016

According to the Jarrow–Turnbull model, coupon bonds are valuated as a portfolio of zero-coupon bonds that, in the event of insolvency, pay a recovery rate at the end of their term. However, when it comes to valuations, the German insolvency law differs in certain respects. To find out whether a model adapted to the German insolvency law will prove to be more empirically robust, an empirical study of 103 corporate bonds was carried out over more than 800 trading days.
The Underpricing of Infrastructure IPOs: Evidence from China
Authors: Tan Qile , Dimovski William , Fang Victor
Published: January 2016

This study investigates the underpricing of 135 infrastructure IPOs in China from 1996 to 2012. It follows infrastructure IPO studies in Australia and India which report average underpricing returns to subscribers of 3.5% and 25.4%, respectively. The average underpricing return for Chinese infrastructure IPOs is substantially higher at 86.3%, but interestingly substantially lower than the underpricing of Chinese IPOs generally. The issue size, government ownership and the pre-IPO earnings per share are helpful in explaining the underpricing of Chinese infrastructure IPOs while the underwriter reputation does not appear to have much explanatory power. In addition, we find the underpricing of infrastructure IPOs in China is also affected by its local GDP levels.
Quo Vadis, Knowledge Management: A Regeneration or a Revolution in the Making?
Authors: Schmitt Ulrich
Published: January 2016

Over more than a decade, Knowledge Management (KM) thinkers have been pondering over the need for a new chapter in the evolutionary history of KM. Will it just be a regeneration based on the integration and new alignment of the numerous metaphors employed for KM’s past interpretations, or will it be — as Levy suggests — a decentralising revolution that gives more power and autonomy to individuals and self-organised groups? Inspired by the objective of this special JIKM issue, the paper adopts a current “Next KM Generation” concept and prototype-in-progress as a point of departure and reverse engineers its functionalities in order to crystallise those KM Models and Theories which — in terms of the concept to be introduced — have passed the test of time. Forty-eight KM constructs have been singled out which are the ingredients for the ongoing integrating, adapting, broadening, deepening, repurposing, and innovating activities of the Personalised KM concept and system design which has been transparently mapped and visualised utilising the Information-Space Model.
A Framework for Improving Knowledge Management Practices in Namibian Software Companies
Authors: Iyawa Gloria Ejehiohen
Published: January 2016

Software development (SD) companies employ, train and provide software developers with the platform to improve their skills. Unfortunately, these investments are lost when a software developer resigns from the company or is not physically available to carry out work activities. This is a major problem experienced in Namibian SD companies. This paper investigates how knowledge is transferred and retained by software developers in Namibian SD companies. Using a case study approach, five software developers were purposively selected from five software companies in the city of Windhoek, Namibia. Data were collected using structured interviews. The findings revealed that Namibian SD companies do not have a formal knowledge management (KM) strategy in place, management is not involved in KM practices and experienced software developers are not willing to participate in the KM process as a result of job insecurities. The findings also revealed that knowledge gaps are created in Namibian SD companies when an experienced software developer resigns from the company, and this consequently hampers the SD process. Based on the findings, the study therefore proposes a knowledge management framework (KMF) for Namibian SD companies, which incorporates the needs of each software developer as well as the needs of the SD company to create an effective KM for Namibian SD companies. The KMF for Namibian SD companies were presented to five experts in the field of Software Engineering. The experts validated the KMF for Namibian SD companies and found it useful within the context of Namibian SD companies. The KMF for Namibian SD companies is expected to improve the way KM processes are carried out in Namibian software companies, providing a realistic approach to improving KM practices.
Finite Groups Whose Character Graphs Associated with Codegrees Have No Triangles
Authors: Xiong Huan
Published: January 2016

Motivated by Problem 164 proposed by Y. Berkovich and E. Zhmud' in their book “Characters of Finite Groups”, we give a characterization of finite groups whose irreducible character codegrees are prime powers. This is based on a new kind of character graphs of finite groups associated with codegrees. Such graphs have close and obvious connections with character codegree graphs. For example, they have the same number of connected components. By analogy with the work of finite groups whose character graphs (associated with degrees) have no triangles, we conduct a result of classifying finite groups whose character graphs associated with codegrees have no triangles in the latter part of this paper.
A Bijective Map on Normal Fusion Subsystems
Authors: Xu Xingzhong
Published: January 2016

Let ℱ be a saturated fusion system over a finite p-group S, and let Z ≤ Zn (ℱ), which is strongly closed in S with respect to ℱ. In this paper, we prove that there is a natural bijection from the set of normal subsystems of ℱ containing Z to the set of normal subsystems of the factor system ℱ+ = ℱ/Z. This generalizes a result of Aschbacher.
Graph Properties and Stratified Presentations of Partially Ordered Sets
Authors: Guo Jin , Wu Tongsuo
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we introduce some new definitions such as the U* L* condition to describe the zero-divisor graph G=Γ(P) of a poset P, and give a new and quick proof to a main result in [2, 4]. By deleting a typical vertex with least degree, we provide an algorithm for finding a maximum clique of a finite graph G. We study some properties of the zero-divisor graphs of posets concerning diameters and girths. We also provide stratified presentations of posets.
On Certain Functional Equation in Semiprime Rings
Authors: Širovnik Nejc , Vukman Joso
Published: January 2016

Let n be a fixed integer, let R be an (n+1)!-torsion free semiprime ring with the identity element and let F: R → R be an additive mapping satisfying the relation [Formula: see text] for all x ∈ R. In this case, we prove that F is of the form 2F(x)=D(x)+ax+xa for all x ∈ R, where D: R → R is a derivation and a ∈ R is some fixed element.
The Common Solution of Some Matrix Equations
Authors: Wang Li , Wang Qingwen , He Zhuoheng
Published: January 2016

In this paper we investigate the system of linear matrix equations A1X=C1, YB2=C2, A3XB3=C3, A4YB4=C4, BX+YC=A. We present some necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a solution to this system and give an expression of the general solution to the system when the solvability conditions are satisfied.
An Application of Rafael's Theorem over Partial Entwined Modules
Authors: Wang Shengxiang , Guo Shuangjian
Published: January 2016

We obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for the functor [Formula: see text] on the category of partial entwined modules that forgets the A-action to be separable. As an application, we prove a Maschke-type theorem for the category of partial entwined modules.
Quasi-morphisms via Local Action Data and Quasi-isometries
Authors: Ben-Simon Gabi
Published: January 2016

In this work we first present a principle which says that quasi-morphisms can be obtained via local data of group action on certain appropriate spaces. In a rough manner the principle says that instead of starting with a given group and trying to build or study its space of quasi-morphisms, we should start with a space with a certain structure, in such a way that groups acting on this space and respecting this structure will automatically carry quasi-morphisms, where these are supposed to be better understood. This principle plays an important role in the second result of this paper, which is a universal embedding of the projective space of the linear space of quasi-morphisms of any given countable group, into the space of quasi-isometries of a certain universal metric space.
The Steinberg Lie Algebra st2(S)
Authors: Wang Yongjie , Shi Yiqian , Gao Yun
Published: January 2016

Let S be a nonassociative k-algebra. By using the Lie triple system, we study the subspace I2(S) of the Steinberg Lie algebra st2(S) and give a necessary and sufficient condition for I2(S)=0.
Envelopes and Covers by n-Absolutely Pure Modules
Authors: Yan Hangyu
Published: January 2016

In this paper we study the existence of ℱℐn-envelopes, [Formula: see text]-envelopes and ℱℐn-covers, where ℱℐn denotes the class of all n-absolute pure modules for an integer n > 0 or n=∞. We prove that [Formula: see text]-envelopes and ℱℐn-covers exist over an n-coherent ring R, and ℱℐ1-covers and special ℱℐn-preenvelopes exist over any ring R.
Quasi-linear Cycle Sets and the Retraction Problem for Set-theoretic Solutions of the Quantum Yang-Baxter Equation
Authors: Rump Wolfgang
Published: January 2016

Cycle sets were introduced to reduce non-degenerate unitary Yang-Baxter maps to an algebraic system with a single binary operation. Every finite cycle set extends uniquely to a finite cycle set with a compatible abelian group structure. Etingof et al. introduced affine Yang-Baxter maps. These are equivalent to cycle sets with a specific abelian group structure. Abelian group structures have also been essential to get partial results for the still unsolved retraction problem. We introduce two new classes of cycle sets with an underlying abelian group structure and show that they can be transformed into each other while keeping the group structure fixed. This leads to a proper extension of the retractibility conjecture and new evidence for its truth.
One Subject, Two Lands: My Journey in Condensed Matter Physics
Authors: Ramakrishnan T.V.
Published: January 2016

This is an account of a professional life in the field that was generally known as solid-state physics when I started working in it; India and the United States of America are the countries in which this life was largely played out. My attempts to understand various things in condensed matter physics, and efforts to put together people and activities in India in this field, are mainly the story.
Taxonomy, Ecology, and Management of Native and Exotic Fruit Fly Species in Africa
Authors: Ekesi Sunday , De Meyer Marc , Mohamed Samira A. , Virgilio Massimiliano , Borgemeister Christian
Published: January 2016

Horticulture is one of the most important agricultural subsectors in Africa, providing income, creating employment opportunities, and enhancing food and nutritional security. However, tephritid fruit flies are responsible for both direct and indirect losses, with alien invasive species often having the most severe ecological and economic impact. In the past 20 years, systematic analysis of tephritids has provided comparative information on taxonomy, synonymy, and character-state differentiation. New molecular techniques are now available for identifying species, reconstructing phylogenies, and studying population genetic structures. Research on biology, host range and shifts, thermotolerance, and demography has provided useful information for developing predictive and ecological niche models to guide management methods. In recent years, the responses of various species to attractants have been documented. Several suppression methods, including the release of coevolved parasitoid species targeting invasives, have been promoted within the context of integrated pest management, leading to improvement in the quality and quantity of fruits and vegetables produced. However, there is still the need for wide-scale availability of these technologies to smallholder growers across Africa.
Organic Nanoparticles in Foods: Fabrication, Characterization, and Utilization
Authors: Pan Kang , Zhong Qixin
Published: January 2016

In the context of food systems, organic nanoparticles (ONPs) are fabricated from proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and other organic compounds to a characteristic dimension, such as a radius smaller than 100 nm. ONPs can be fabricated with bottom-up and top-down approaches, or a combination of both, on the basis of the physicochemical properties of the source materials and the fundamental principles of physical chemistry, colloidal and polymer sciences, and materials science and engineering. ONPs are characterized for dimension, morphology, surface properties, internal structures, and biological properties to understand structure-function correlations and to explore their applications. These potential applications include modifying physical properties, improving sensory attributes and food quality, protecting labile compounds, and delivering encapsulated bioactive compounds for improved bioactivity and bioavailability. Because ONPs can have digestion and absorption properties different from conventional materials, the eventual applications of ONPs require in vitro and in vivo studies to guide the development of safe food products that utilize the unique functionalities of ONPs.
Development, Characterization, and Utilization of Food-Grade Polymer Oleogels
Authors: Davidovich-Pinhas M. , Barbut Shai , Marangoni A.G.
Published: January 2016

The potential of organogels (oleogels) for oil structuring has been identified and investigated extensively using different gelator-oil systems in recent years. This review provides a comprehensive summary of all oil-structuring systems found in the literature, with an emphasis on ethyl-cellulose (EC), the only direct food-grade polymer oleogelator. EC is a semicrystalline material that undergoes a thermoreversible sol-gel transition in the presence of liquid oil. This unique behavior is based on the polymer's ability to associate through physical bonds. These interactions are strongly affected by external fields such as shear and temperature, as well as by solvent chemistry, which in turn strongly affect final gel properties. Recently, EC-based oleogels have been used as a replacement for fats in foods, as heat-resistance agents in chocolate, as oil-binding agents in bakery products, and as the basis for cosmetic pastes. Understanding the characteristics of the EC oleogel is essential for the development of new applications.
Transcriptional Control of Dendritic Cell Development
Authors: Murphy Theresa L. , Grajales-Reyes Gary E. , Wu Xiaodi , Tussiwand Roxane , Briseño Carlos G. , Iwata Arifumi , Kretzer Nicole M. , Durai Vivek , Murphy Kenneth M.
Published: January 2016

The dendritic cells (DCs) of the immune system function in innate and adaptive responses by directing activity of various effector cells rather than serving as effectors themselves. DCs and closely related myeloid lineages share expression of many surface receptors, presenting a challenge in distinguishing their unique in vivo functions. Recent work has taken advantage of unique transcriptional programs to identify and manipulate murine DCs in vivo. This work has assigned several nonredundant in vivo functions to distinct DC lineages, consisting of plasmacytoid DCs and several subsets of classical DCs that promote different immune effector modules in response to pathogens. In parallel, a correspondence between human and murine DC subsets has emerged, underlying structural similarities for the DC lineages between these species. Recent work has begun to unravel the transcriptional circuitry that controls the development and diversification of DCs from common progenitors in the bone marrow.
Impression Management in Organizations: Critical Questions, Answers, and Areas for Future Research
Authors: Bolino Mark , Long David , Turnley William
Published: January 2016

Over the past 30 years, researchers have devoted significant attention to understanding impression management in organizations. In this article, we review key questions that have been addressed in this area regarding definitions of impression management; types of impression management; impression management motivation; the effectiveness of ingratiation, self-promotion, and other tactics of impression management; personal factors associated with successful impression management; gender and impression management; cross-cultural implications of impression management; and the measurement of impression management. In doing so, we identify major themes and findings and highlight critical issues and unanswered questions. After reviewing these topics, we also discuss some practical implications for individuals and organizations. Finally, we conclude by outlining some broader avenues for inquiry that would help move this literature forward.
Employer Image and Employer Branding: What We Know and What We Need to Know
Authors: Lievens Filip , Slaughter Jerel E.
Published: January 2016

In this article, we review theory and research on employer image and employer branding published since 2001. The review is wide ranging. First, we define employer image and distinguish it from similar constructs such as reputation and identity. We find that the literature has used two conceptualizations of images: an elementalistic perspective (e.g., distinction between symbolic and instrumental organizational attributes) and a holistic perspective (i.e., overall ratings of organizational attractiveness). Second, we discuss the effects of favorable organizational images, including better recruitment outcomes, more differentiation, stronger emotional bonds, and financial returns. Third, we review the antecedents and formation of image with a focus on organizational (e.g., recruiters) and nonorganizational sources [e.g., word of mouth (WOM)]. Fourth, we discuss the theoretical mediating mechanisms responsible for image effects and the moderators of image-outcome relationships. Finally, we address practical implications in the form of employer brand management and provide future research suggestions.
Governance: What Do We Know, and How Do We Know It?
Authors: Fukuyama Francis
Published: January 2016

The term governance does not have a settled definition today, and it has at least three main meanings. The first is international cooperation through nonsovereign bodies outside the state system. This concept grew out of the literature on globalization and argued that territorial sovereignty was giving way to more informal types of horizontal cooperation, as well as to supranational bodies such as the European Union. The second meaning treated governance as a synonym for public administration, that is, effective implementation of state policy. Interest in this topic was driven by awareness that global poverty was rooted in corruption and weak state capacity. The third meaning of governance was the regulation of social behavior through networks and other nonhierarchical mechanisms. The first and third of these strands of thought downplay traditional state authority and favor new transnational or civil society actors. These trends, however, raise troubling questions about transparency and accountability in the workings of modern government.
Inhibitory stabilization and visual coding in cortical circuits with multiple interneuron subtypes
Authors: Litwin-Kumar Ashok , Rosenbaum Robert , Doiron Brent
Published: January 2016

Recent anatomical and functional characterization of cortical inhibitory interneurons has highlighted the diverse computations supported by different subtypes of interneurons. However, most theoretical models of cortex do not feature multiple classes of interneurons and rather assume a single homogeneous population. We study the dynamics of recurrent excitatory-inhibitory model cortical networks with parvalbumin (PV)-, somatostatin (SOM)-, and vasointestinal peptide-expressing (VIP) interneurons, with connectivity properties motivated by experimental recordings from mouse primary visual cortex. Our theory describes conditions under which the activity of such networks is stable and how perturbations of distinct neuronal subtypes recruit changes in activity through recurrent synaptic projections. We apply these conclusions to study the roles of each interneuron subtype in disinhibition, surround suppression, and subtractive or divisive modulation of orientation tuning curves. Our calculations and simulations determine the architectural and stimulus tuning conditions under which cortical activity consistent with experiment is possible. They also lead to novel predictions concerning connectivity and network dynamics that can be tested via optogenetic manipulations. Our work demonstrates that recurrent inhibitory dynamics must be taken into account to fully understand many properties of cortical dynamics observed in experiments.
Conduction block of mammalian myelinated nerve by local cooling to 15–30°C after a brief heating
Authors: Zhang Zhaocun , Lyon Timothy D. , Kadow Brian T. , Shen Bing , Wang Jicheng , Lee Andy , Kang Audry , Roppolo James R. , de Groat William C. , Tai Changfeng
Published: January 2016

This study aimed at understanding thermal effects on nerve conduction and developing new methods to produce a reversible thermal block of axonal conduction in mammalian myelinated nerves. In 13 cats under α-chloralose anesthesia, conduction block of pudendal nerves ( n = 20) by cooling (5–30°C) or heating (42–54°C) a small segment (9 mm) of the nerve was monitored by the urethral striated muscle contractions and increases in intraurethral pressure induced by intermittent (5 s on and 20 s off) electrical stimulation (50 Hz, 0.2 ms) of the nerve. Cold block was observed at 5–15°C while heat block occurred at 50–54°C. A complete cold block up to 10 min was fully reversible, but a complete heat block was only reversible when the heating duration was less than 1.3 ± 0.1 min. A brief (<1 min) reversible complete heat block at 50–54°C or 15 min of nonblock mild heating at 46–48°C significantly increased the cold block temperature to 15–30°C. The effect of heating on cold block fully reversed within ∼40 min. This study discovered a novel method to block mammalian myelinated nerves at 15–30°C, providing the possibility to develop an implantable device to block axonal conduction and treat many chronic disorders. The effect of heating on cold block is of considerable interest because it raises many basic scientific questions that may help reveal the mechanisms underlying cold or heat block of axonal conduction.
Proangiogenic Features of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Tao Hongyan , Han Zhibo , Han Zhong Chao , Li Zongjin
Published: January 2016

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown their therapeutic potency for treatment of cardiovascular diseases owing to their low immunogenicity, ease of isolation and expansion, and multipotency. As multipotent progenitors, MSCs have revealed their ability to differentiate into various cell types and could promote endogenous angiogenesis via microenvironmental modulation. Studies on cardiovascular diseases have demonstrated that transplanted MSCs could engraft at the injured sites and differentiate into cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells as well. Accordingly, several clinical trials using MSCs have been performed and revealed that MSCs may improve relevant clinical parameters in patients with vascular diseases. To fully comprehend the characteristics of MSCs, understanding their intrinsic property and associated modulations in tuning their behaviors as well as functions is indispensable for future clinical translation of MSC therapy. This review will focus on recent progresses on endothelial differentiation and potential clinical application of MSCs, with emphasis on therapeutic angiogenesis for treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Mimicking Neural Stem Cell Niche by Biocompatible Substrates
Authors: Regalado-Santiago Citlalli , Juárez-Aguilar Enrique , Olivares-Hernández Juan David , Tamariz Elisa
Published: January 2016

Neural stem cells (NSCs) participate in the maintenance, repair, and regeneration of the central nervous system. During development, the primary NSCs are distributed along the ventricular zone of the neural tube, while, in adults, NSCs are mainly restricted to the subependymal layer of the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricles and the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus in the hippocampus. The circumscribed areas where the NSCs are located contain the secreted proteins and extracellular matrix components that conform their niche. The interplay among the niche elements and NSCs determines the balance between stemness and differentiation, quiescence, and proliferation. The understanding of niche characteristics and how they regulate NSCs activity is critical to building in vitro models that include the relevant components of the in vivo niche and to developing neuroregenerative approaches that consider the extracellular environment of NSCs. This review aims to examine both the current knowledge on neurogenic niche and how it is being used to develop biocompatible substrates for the in vitro and in vivo mimicking of extracellular NSCs conditions.
Pricing Model for Dual Sales Channel with Promotion Effect Consideration
Authors: Zhou Chuiri
Published: January 2016

We focus on the pricing strategy of a dual sales channel member when his/her online retailer faces an upcoming overloaded express delivery service due to the sales peak of online shopping, especially referring to the occurring affairs in China. We characterize the pricing problem of the dual selling channel system as a two-period game. When the price discount is only provided by the online seller, we find that the prices of the traditional channel and the online channel in the two periods are higher while the overloaded degree of express delivery is lower and the overloaded delivery services can decrease the profits of both channels. When the price discounts are provided by both traditional and online sellers, we find that the derived Nash price equilibrium of both channels includes five possible combinations of prices. Both traditional and online sellers will choose their price strategies, respectively, according to their cost advantages which are affected by the overloaded degree of express delivery.
Killing Me Softly: Connotations to Unfolded Protein Response and Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Pająk Beata , Kania Elżbieta , Orzechowski Arkadiusz
Published: January 2016

This review is focused on the possible causes of mitochondrial dysfunction in AD, underlying molecular mechanisms of this malfunction, possible causes and known consequences of APP, Aβ, and hyperphosphorylated tau presence in mitochondria, and the contribution of altered lipid metabolism (nonsterol isoprenoids) to pathological processes leading to increased formation and accumulation of the aforementioned hallmarks of AD. Abnormal protein folding and unfolded protein response seem to be the outcomes of impaired glycosylation due to metabolic disturbances in geranylgeraniol intermediary metabolism. The origin and consecutive fate of APP, Aβ, and tau are emphasized on intracellular trafficking apparently influenced by inaccurate posttranslational modifications. We hypothesize that incorrect intracellular processing of APP determines protein translocation to mitochondria in AD. Similarly, without obvious reasons, the passage of Aβ and tau to mitochondria is observed. APP targeted to mitochondria blocks the activity of protein translocase complex resulting in poor import of proteins central to oxidative phosphorylation. Besides, APP, Aβ, and neurofibrillary tangles of tau directly or indirectly impair mitochondrial biochemistry and bioenergetics, with concomitant generation of oxidative/nitrosative stress. Limited protective mechanisms are inadequate to prevent the free radical‐mediated lesions. Finally, neuronal loss is observed in AD‐affected brains typically by pathologic apoptosis.
Impacts of Wind Stress Changes on the Global Heat Transport, Baroclinic Instability, and the Thermohaline Circulation
Authors: Machado Jeferson Prietsch , Justino Flavio , Pezzi Luciano Ponzi
Published: January 2016

The wind stress is a measure of momentum transfer due to the relative motion between the atmosphere and the ocean. This study aims to investigate the anomalous pattern of atmospheric and oceanic circulations due to 50% increase in the wind stress over the equatorial region and the Southern Ocean. In this paper we use a coupled climate model of intermediate complexity (SPEEDO). The results show that the intensification of equatorial wind stress causes a decrease in sea surface temperature in the tropical region due to increased upwelling and evaporative cooling. On the other hand, the intensification of wind stress over the Southern Ocean induces a regional increase in the air and sea surface temperatures which in turn leads to a reduction in Antarctic sea ice thickness. This occurs in association with changes in the global thermohaline circulation strengthening the rate of Antarctic Bottom Water formation and a weakening of the North Atlantic Deep Water. Moreover, changes in the Southern Hemisphere thermal gradient lead to modified atmospheric and oceanic heat transports reducing the storm tracks and baroclinic activity.
Modeling and Dynamic Analysis of Spherical Roller Bearing with Localized Defects: Analytical Formulation to Calculate Defect Depth and Stiffness
Authors: Ghalamchi Behnam , Sopanen Jussi , Mikkola Aki
Published: January 2016

Since spherical roller bearings can carry high load in both axial and radial direction, they are increasingly used in industrial machineries and it is becoming important to understand the dynamic behavior of SRBs, especially when they are affected by internal imperfections. This paper introduces a dynamic model for an SRB that includes an inner and outer race surface defect. The proposed model shows the behavior of the bearing as a function of defect location and size. The new dynamic model describes the contact forces between bearing rolling elements and race surfaces as nonlinear Hertzian contact deformations, taking radial clearance into account. Two defect cases were simulated: an elliptical surface on the inner and outer races. In elliptical surface concavity, it is assumed that roller-to-race-surface contact is continuous as each roller passes over the defect. Contact stiffness in the defect area varies as a function of the defect contact geometry. Compared to measurement data, the results obtained using the simulation are highly accurate.
Thermoelectric Modeling and Online SOC Estimation of Li-Ion Battery for Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Panday Aishwarya , Bansal Hari Om , Srinivasan Pramod
Published: January 2016

The increasing oil price, energy demand, and environmental concern are leading to a global switch towards Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs). In a PHEV, Li-ion battery is considered as the primary propelling source. Therefore, an accurate battery model is required to predict theI-Vcharacteristic and dynamic behavior of a battery. This paper presents a highly effective thermoelectric model of Li-ion battery developed in Simulink. An algorithm is proposed for estimation of state of charge (SOC) and open circuit voltage (OCV) adaptively to notify the exact SOC level for better utilization of battery power and optimal vehicle performance. Thermal behavior of Li-ion battery is investigated for wide temperature range and its effect on resistance, capacity, and OCV is recorded. The minimum SOC level to which battery can get depleted is calculated using gradient method. The proposed simulation results are analyzed with those of earlier models and found to be better.
Endothelial Progenitor Cell Migration‐Enhancing Factors in the Secretome of Placental‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Kamprom Witchayaporn , Kheolamai Pakpoom , U-Pratya Yaowalak , Supokawej Aungkura , Wattanapanitch Methichit , Laowtammathron Chuti , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Issaragrisil Surapol
Published: January 2016

Therapeutic potentials of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) depend largely on their ability to secrete cytokines or factors that modulate immune response, enhance cell survival, and induce neovascularization in the target tissues. We studied the secretome profile of gestational tissue‐derived MSCs and their effects on functions of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), another angiogenic cell type that plays an important role during the neovascularization. MSCs derived from placental tissues (PL‐MSCs) significantly enhanced EPC migration while BM‐MSCs, which are the standard source of MSCs for various clinical applications, did not. By using protein fractionation and mass spectrometry analysis, we identified several novel candidates for EPC migration enhancing factor in PL‐MSCs secretome that could be used to enhance neovascularization in the injured/ischemic tissues. We recommend that the strategy developed in our study could be used to systematically identify therapeutically useful molecules in the secretomes of other MSC sources for the clinical applications.
Effect of Soil Structure Interaction on Torsional Response of Structure Supported by Asymmetric Soil Foundation System
Authors: Zhou Fangyuan , Wen Xuezhang , Zhu Hongping
Published: January 2016

The torsional response of a structure supported by asymmetric foundation was investigated in this study. Several types of the asymmetric soil foundation system were employed to analyze the effect of soil structure interaction on torsional response of the superstructure. It can be concluded from the study that torsional response would be generated for a structure supported by asymmetric soil foundation system under horizontal seismic excitation, and the generated torsional response of the superstructure changed with the degree of the asymmetry of the foundation.
MicroRNAs‐Proteomic Networks Characterizing Human Medulloblastoma‐SLCs
Authors: Catanzaro Giuseppina , Besharat Zein Mersini , Garg Neha , Ronci Maurizio , Pieroni Luisa , Miele Evelina , Mastronuzzi Angela , Carai Andrea , Alfano Vincenzo , Po Agnese , Screpanti Isabella , Locatelli Franco , Urbani Andrea , Ferretti Elisabetta
Published: January 2016

Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor of pediatric age and is characterized by cells expressing stem, astroglial, and neuronal markers. Among them, stem‐like cells (hMB‐SLCs) represent a fraction of the tumor cell population with the potential of self‐renewal and proliferation and have been associated with tumor poor prognosis. In this context, microRNAs have been described as playing a pivotal role in stem cells differentiation. In our paper, we analyze microRNAs profile and genes expression of hMB‐SLCs before and after Retinoic Acid‐ (RA‐) induced differentiation. We aimed to identify pivotal players of specific pathways sustaining stemness and/or tumor development and progression and integrate the results of our recent proteomic study. Our results uncovered 22 differentially expressed microRNAs that were used as input together with deregulated genes and proteins in the Genomatix Pathway System (GePS) analysis revealing 3 subnetworks that could be interestingly involved in the maintenance of hMB‐SLCs proliferation. Taken together, our findings highlight microRNAs, genes, and proteins that are significantly modulated in hMB‐SLCs with respect to their RA‐differentiated counterparts and could open new perspectives for prognostic and therapeutic intervention on MB.
Ossification of the Interosseous Membrane of the Leg in a Football Player: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Postacchini Roberto , Carbone Stefano , Mastantuono Marco , Della Rocca Carlo , Postacchini Franco
Published: January 2016

Introduction. We report a case of ossification of the interosseous membrane (OIM) of the leg in a football player who had no history of severe local traumas. A review of the literature of the OIM of the leg in athletes was also carried out.Case Report. A 38-year-old Caucasian male patient complained of pain on lateral aspect of the leg when playing football. Pain progressively worsened until he had to stop the sporting activity. Radiographs, and then CT and MRI, showed OIM in the middle third of the left leg. MRI showed inflammation of tibia periosteum and bone adjacent to the ossification, which was then excised. Two months after surgery the patient returned to play football.Conclusion. A thorough analysis of the literature revealed three types of OIM of the leg in athletes. Type I usually occurs after a syndesmosis ankle sprain, Type II appears to result from a tibia fracture, and Type III, of which only one fully recorded case has been published, is probably caused, as in our patient, by repetitive minor traumas to the leg. Awareness of the existence of Type III OIM can avoid erroneous diagnoses leading to useless investigations and treatments.
Silica Nanoparticles Effects on Blood Coagulation Proteins and Platelets
Authors: Gryshchuk Volodymyr , Galagan Natalya
Published: January 2016

Interaction of nanoparticles with the blood coagulation is important prior to their using as the drug carriers or therapeutic agents. The aim of present work was studying of the primary effects of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) on haemostasisin vitro. We studied the effect of SiNPs on blood coagulation directly estimating the activation of prothrombin and factor X and to verify any possible effect of SiNPs on human platelets. It was shown that SiNPs shortened coagulation time in APTT and PT tests and increased the activation of factor X induced by RVV possibly due to the sorption of intrinsic pathway factors on their surface. SiNPs inhibited the aggregation of platelet rich plasma induced by ADP but in the same time partially activated platelets as it was shown using flow cytometry. The possibility of SiNPs usage in nanomedicine is strongly dependant on their final concentration in bloodstream and the size of the particles that are used. However SiNPs are extremely promising as the haemostatic agents for preventing the blood loss after damage.