bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
U–Pb detrital zircon geochronology of the Dalradian Supergroup, Shetland Islands, Scotland: implications for regional correlations and Neoproterozoic–Palaeozoic basin development
Authors: Strachan R. A. , Prave A. R. , Kirkland C. L. , Storey C. D.
Published: October 2013

U–Pb detrital zircon data show that the East Mainland Succession, the presumed correlative of the Dalradian Supergroup in the Shetland Islands, Scotland, is dominated by Mesoproterozoic and Archaean material, with some Palaeoproterozoic detritus. The data are most consistent with derivation from eastern Laurentia, although western Baltica sources cannot be excluded. A magmatic event at
c
. 576 Ma supplied detritus to the Clift Hills Group, and was the source of high-temperature fluids that resulted in growth of new metamorphic zircon, and altered old detrital grains within the underlying sedimentary pile. This provides a constraint on the age of the global Shuram–Wonaka event recognized within the Whiteness Group, which underlies the Clift Hills Group. The presence of common Archaean detritus is compatible with broad time-correlation of the East Mainland Succession with the Dalradian Supergroup. However, differences in age, thickness and basin evolution are consistent with deposition in separate basins along the extending Laurentian margin during supercontinent break-up and development of the Iapetus Ocean. Similarities in the detrital zircon records of the East Mainland Succession and the offshore Devonian–Carboniferous Clair Group permit derivation, at least in part, of the latter from the Shetland Islands and proximal sources on the adjacent continental shelf.

Supplementary material:

SIMS and LA-ICP-MS analytical data, and statistical analyses are available at
www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18674
.
Electrochemical Preparation of Polypyrrole/Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Composites in HCl and HClO4 Media
Authors: Ugalde Mariana T , Aguilar-Martinez Martha , Macías-Ruvalcaba Norma A.
Published: October 2013

In this paper we report the electropolymerization andcharacterization of polypyrrole/carbon nanotube composites in twoacidic media, HCl and HClO4. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) andscanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to investigate theelectrochemical and morphological properties of the films; theseproperties are compared with their respective pure polymerprepared under similar conditions. It is observed that regardless thedopant anion (Cl– or ClO4–), the composite films exhibit highercurrents than the corresponding polymeric film, which is indicativeof a larger capacitance of the composite films. This behavioragrees well with the highly porous structure of the composite ascompared with the pure polymer, which has a more compactstructure. It is demonstrated that a decrease in the scan rate usedduring the synthesis leads to composites with higher charge storagecapacity and superior electrochemical stability during chargedischargecycles.
Synthesis of SnO2-Sb(5%)-Gd(2%) Anodes at Different Calcination Temperatures and Its Effect On Phenol Electrooxidation Process
Authors: López Morales Francisco , Castillo Patricia , García Miguel Ángel , Zayas Teresa , Salgado Leonardo
Published: October 2013

Ti/SnO2-Sb(5%)-Gd(2%) anodes were synthesized by the Pechini method with different calcination temperatures (specifically, 500, 600 or 700°C). The anodes obtained were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The electrocatalytic property of the anodes as a function of the calcination temperature was evaluated by assessing the electrooxidation of phenol at a constant potential. The phenol degradation was followed by UV-Vis spectroscopy in relation to the time of electrolysis. The results show that the applied calcination temperatures induce variations in the morphology (the surface roughness), the Tafel slope for the oxygen evolution reaction and the electrocatalytic activity of the examined anodes. In particular, Ti/SnO2-Sb(5%)-Gd(2%) anodes that were calcined at temperatures below 700°C are more effective for the degradation of phenol, whereas calcination temperature of 700°C produce anodes with low performance for the removal of phenol.
Effect of pH in the Electrochemical Response ofSnO2-Carbon Black Composites and its Use as Anodes
Authors: García Osorio Dora Alicia , Jaimes López Raciel , Móran Elvira Rogelio , Miranda-Hernández Margarita
Published: October 2013

In this work is carried out electrochemical characterization of SnO2-Carbon Black composites in electrolytes systems with different pH by means of lineal sweep voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The electrochemical responses were compared with Pt and DSA (Ti/IrO2/SnO2/Sb2O5) electrodes, considering them as well behavior electrodes for water oxidation reaction. This study allows us to identify that SnO2-nCFE electrode depresses the water oxidation potential, the reaction is catalyzed, and the SnO2-SCFE electrode extends the oxygen evolution potential. Consequently the electrodes were evaluated in 0.1M KHCO3/CO2 with pH 6.8, and 0.1M KHCO3 2% Reactive Blue dye, respectively. The assessment in these specific systems enables to evaluate their possible use as anodes. In a future work, the efficiency and cell potential will be reported in order to confirm the effective performance of these electrodes materials.
Characterization of DNA/Buffer/H2O System Through Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS)
Authors: Bravo-Anaya Lourdes Mónica , Larios-Durán Erika Roxana , Casillas Norberto , Carvajal Francisco , Fernández-Escamilla V. Vladimir , Macías-Balleza Emma Rebeca , Soltero J.F. Armando
Published: October 2013

In this work we present a study of transitional behavior of calfthymusDNA molecules in solution in a concentration range from0.01 to 2.5 mg mL-1 at different temperatures (10, 20, 30 and 40ºC) and a pH of 7.3 using Electrochemical ImpedanceSpectroscopy (EIS). The results are interpreted with amethodology similar to the one used in studies of linear-rheology.The Zo modulus and the characteristic time constant of the process(τc) were obtained through a variation of Bode graphics. From theanalysis of these parameters as a function of DNA concentration itis possible to determine the overlap (C*) and entanglement (Ce)concentrations of the system. These concentrations allowidentifying conditions where interactions and entanglementsbetween DNA molecules are present. An interpretation of thecharacteristic time constant values is proposed according to thestructural rearrangement of the electrochemical double-layer.
Evaluation of the Degree of Sensitization of a Stainless Steel 304 Using Local Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Gonzalez Rodriguez Carlos Alberto , Galicia Aguilar Gonzalo , Velazquez Sanchez Alejandro Tonatiu , Cruz Mejía Héctor
Published: October 2013

In this work the degree of sensitization of several samples of austenitic stainless steel 304 sensitized at 600 and 700 °C during 1h, was determined by Local Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy. The experimental methodology consisted of several steps. Firstly, a chemical analysis of each sample was realized by spark emission spectroscopy, after a metallographic characterization was done and finally tests of double loop- electrochemical potentiodynamic reactivation (DLEPR) were applied in each sample. Additionally, carbides precipitation in the border grain was observed using a Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The spectra of local impedance were realized into austenitic grain, the results obtained showed a capacitive behavior. On the other hand in the grains limits (where chromium carbides are formed), a resistive – capacitive behavior is observed. This difference indicates what zone is most susceptible to intergranular corrosion (CIG), whereas DLEPR is unable to discern any evidence about this.
Rotary Dynamic System Which Corrosion Test Simulates Conditions In Sea WaterFlow
Authors: Marín-Romero David , Galvan-Martínez Ricardo , Orozco-Cruz Ricardo
Published: October 2013

The study of flow-assisted corrosion (FAC) involves the development of equipment capable of exposing metallic materials at different flow rates. The main aim of this work is to present a new equipment that allows evaluate the effect of corrosion by marine flow. This new device was built in carbon steel and it’s capable of exposing up to 162 specimens generating three different speeds in each test. Unlike other existing field devices such as rotating drum using curved specimens and only generates a flow rate per test (1,2), the device presented here uses simple machining specimens and higher flow rates.
Mechanical and Electrochemical Characterization of an AISI 316 Implanted with Nitrogen
Authors: Hernandez Miguel , Medina Rafael , Barba Arturo , Rickards Jorge , Covelo Alba , Valdez Raul
Published: October 2013

The AISI 306L stainless steel implanted with nitrogen has been characterized by means of electrochemical and mechanical measurements. Implanted samples used saturation doses of 6×1015, 2.03×1016 and 1.6×1017 ions N2×cm-2 at an acceleration voltage of 3.6 MeV. Implanted and non-implanted samples were compared in order to study the beneficial effect of ionic implantation at room temperature. The results show a detrimental effect of the corrosion properties for low-doses implantation due to poor surface modification which leads to more localized attack than the non-implanted specimens. On the other hand, higher dose show beneficial effect on both mechanical and electrochemical properties. The higher N+ dose showed the less anodic pitting potential. XRD analysis revealed that implantations dose of 1017 N2×cm-2 modified the crystallographic structure of the stainless steel. In addition, mechanical measurements demonstrated an improvement of the surface hardening as well as less lost wear by the action of pin-on-disk test.
Electrochemical Reduction of Molybdate on Glassy Carbon Electrode in Acidic Media
Authors: Galicia Alejandra , Zayas Teresa , Salgado Leonardo
Published: October 2013

The reduction of molybdate on glassy carbon electrodes was studied in a solution of 0.5 M H2SO4 + 3.8 x 10-3 M MoO4
2- using potentiostatic polarization, cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The results indicate that molybdate reduction processes depends on potential and polarization time. Initial states correspond to reversible adsorption of reduced molybdate species. At -700 mV, molybdate reduction is influenced by the hydrogen evolution reaction. Under these conditions, polarization promotes the formation of hydrogen molybdenum bronzes.
HMGB1 recruits hepatic stellate cells and liver endothelial cells to sites of ethanol-induced parenchymal cell injury
Authors: Seo Yeon S. , Kwon Jung H. , Yaqoob Usman , Yang Liu , De Assuncao Thiago M. , Simonetto Douglas A. , Verma Vikas K. , Shah Vijay H.
Published: October 2013

Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) and liver endothelial cells (LEC) migrate to sites of injury and perpetuate alcohol-induced liver injury. High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a protein released from the nucleus of injured cells that has been implicated as a proinflammatory mediator. We hypothesized that HMGB1 may be released from ethanol-stimulated liver parenchymal cells and contribute to HSC and LEC recruitment. Ethanol stimulation of rat hepatocytes and HepG2 cells resulted in translocation of HMGB1 from the nucleus as assessed by Western blot. HMGB1 protein levels were increased in the supernatant of ethanol-treated hepatocytes compared with vehicle-treated cells. Migration of both HSC and LEC was increased in response to conditioned medium for ethanol-stimulated hepatocytes (CMEtOH) compared with vehicle-stimulated hepatocytes (CMVEH) ( P < 0.05). However, the effect of CMEtOHon migration was almost entirely reversed by treatment with HMGB1-neutralizing antibody or when HepG2 cells were pretransfected with HMGB1-siRNA compared with control siRNA-transfected HepG2 cells ( P < 0.05). Recombinant HMGB1 (100 ng/ml) also stimulated migration of HSC and LEC compared with vehicle stimulation ( P < 0.05 for both HSC and LEC). HMGB1 stimulation of HSC increased the phosphorylation of Src and Erk and HMGB1-induced HSC migration was blocked by the Src inhibitor PP2 and the Erk inhibitor U0126. Hepatocytes release HMGB1 in response to ethanol with subsequent recruitment of HSC and LEC. This pathway has implications for HSC and LEC recruitment to sites of ethanol-induced liver injury.
Effects of respiratory time ratio on heart rate variability and spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity
Authors: Wang Yong-Ping , Kuo Terry B. J. , Lai Chun-Ting , Chu Jui-Wen , Yang Cheryl C. H.
Published: October 2013

Paced breathing is a frequently performed technique for cardiovascular autonomic studies. The relative timing of inspiration and expiration during paced breathing, however, is not consistent. We, therefore, examined whether indexes of heart rate variability and spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity would be affected by the respiratory time ratio that is set. We studied 14 healthy young adults who controlled their breathing rates to either 0.1 or 0.25 Hz in the supine and sitting positions. Four different inspiratory-to-expiratory time ratios (I/E) (uncontrolled, 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3) were examined for each condition in a randomized order. The results showed spectral indexes of heart rate variability and spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity were not influenced by the I/E that was set during paced breathing under supine and sitting positions. Porta's and Guzik's indexes of heart rate asymmetry were also not different at various I/E during 0.1-Hz breathing, but had larger values at 1:1 during 0.25-Hz breathing, although significant change was found in the sitting position only. At the same time, Porta's and Guzik's indexes obtained during 0.1-Hz breathing were greater than during 0.25-Hz breathing in both positions. The authors suggest that setting the I/E during paced breathing is not necessary when measuring spectral indexes of heart rate variability and spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity under the conditions used in this study. The necessity of paced breathing for the measurement of heart rate asymmetry, however, requires further investigation.
5-HT stimulation of heart rate inDrosophiladoes not act through cAMP as revealed by pharmacogenetics
Authors: Majeed Zana R. , Nichols Charles D. , Cooper Robin L.
Published: October 2013

The fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, is a good experimental organism to study the underlying mechanism of heart rate (HR) regulation. It is already known that many neuromodulators (serotonin, dopamine, octopamine, acetylcholine) change the HR in Drosophila melanogaster larvae. In this study, we investigated the role of cAMP-PKA signaling pathway in HR regulation and 5-HT positive chronotropic action. In order to obtain insight into the 5-HT mechanism of action in larvae cardiomyocytes, genetic and pharmacological approaches were used. We used transgenic flies that expressed the hM4Di receptor [designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs)] as one tool. Our previous results showed that activation of hM4Di receptors (modified muscarinic acetylcholine receptors) decreases or arrests the heart from beating. In this study, it was hypothesized that the positive chronotropic effect of serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] are mediated by serotonin receptors coupled to the adenylyl cyclase pathway and downstream cAMP and PKA activity. Activation of hM4Di by clozapine-N-oxide (CNO) was predicted to block the effects of serotonin by inhibiting adenylyl cyclase activity through Gαi pathway activation. Interestingly, we found here that manipulation of adenylyl cyclase activity and cAMP levels had no significant effect on HR. The ability of hM4Di receptor activation to slow or stop the heart is therefore likely mediated by activation of GIRK channels to produce hyperpolarization of cardiomyocytes, and not through inhibition of adenylyl cyclase.
Rural Residence and Cancer Outcomes in the United States: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Meilleur Ashley , Subramanian S.V. , Plascak Jesse J. , Fisher James L. , Paskett Electra D. , Lamont Elizabeth B.
Published: October 2013

“Neighborhoods and health” research has shown that area social factors are associated with the health outcomes that patients with cancer experience across the cancer control continuum. To date, most of this research has been focused on the attributes of urban areas that are associated with residents' poor cancer outcomes with less focused on attributes of rural areas that may be associated with the same. Perhaps because there is not yet a consensus in the United States regarding how to define “rural,” there is not yet an accepted analytic convention for studying issues of how patients' cancer outcomes may vary according to “rural” as a contextual attribute. The research that exists reports disparate findings and generally treats rural residence as a patient attribute rather than a contextual factor, making it difficult to understand what factors (e.g., unmeasured individual poverty, area social deprivation, area health care scarcity) may be mediating the poor outcomes associated with rural (or non-rural) residence. Here, we review literature regarding the potential importance of rural residence on cancer patients' outcomes in the United States with an eye towards identifying research conventions (i.e., spatial and analytic) that may be useful for future research in this important area. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(10); 1657–67. ©2013 AACR.
Treatment with Gefitinib or Lapatinib Induces Drug Resistance through Downregulation of Topoisomerase IIα Expression
Authors: Bhosle Jaishree , Kiakos Konstantinos , Porter Andrew C.G. , Wu Jenny , Makris Andreas , Hartley John A , Hochhauser Daniel
Published: October 2013

The EGF receptor (EGFR) is therapeutically targeted by antibodies and small molecules in solid tumors including lung, colorectal, and breast cancer. However, chemotherapy remains important, and efforts to improve efficacy through combination with targeted agents is challenging. This study examined the effects of short and long durations of exposure to the EGFR- and HER2-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) gefitinib and lapatinib, on induction of cell death and DNA damage by topoisomerase IIα (Topo IIα) poisons, in the SK-Br-3 HER2-amplified breast cancer cell line. Short exposure to either gefitinib or lapatinib for 1 hour did not affect the induction of apoptosis by the Topo IIα poisons doxorubicin, etoposide, and m-AMSA. In contrast, cells treated for 48 hours were resistant to all three drugs. Short exposure (1 hour) to TKI did not alter the number of DNA single- or double-strand breaks (DSB) induced, whereas longer exposure (48 hours) reduced the number of DNA DSBs and the formation of γ-H2AX foci. Both gefitinib and lapatinib reduced the expression and activity of Topo IIα at 48 hours. Studies using a cell line with inducible downregulation of Topo IIα showed that expression of Topo IIα, and not Topo IIβ, determined the number of DNA strand breaks induced by these chemotherapeutic agents. These results indicate that prolonged exposure to TKIs targeting EGFR and HER2 induce resistance to doxorubicin, etoposide, and m-AMSA through downregulation of Topo IIα. This may explain why their addition to chemotherapy regimens have not increased efficacy. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(12); 2897–908. ©2013 AACR.
Tetravalent Antibody–scTRAIL Fusion Proteins with Improved Properties
Authors: Seifert Oliver , Plappert Aline , Fellermeier Sina , Siegemund Martin , Pfizenmaier Klaus , Kontermann Roland E.
Published: October 2013

We applied the immunoglobulin E (IgE) heavy-chain domain 2 (EHD2) as the covalently linked homodimerization module to generate antibody–scTRAIL fusion proteins. By fusing a humanized single-chain fragment variable (scFv) directed against EGFR to the N-terminus of the EHD2 and a single-chain derivative of TRAIL (scTRAIL) to the C-terminus of the EHD2, we produced a dimeric, tetravalent fusion protein. The fusion protein retained its binding activity for EGFR and TRAIL receptors. In vitro, the targeted antibody–scTRAIL fusion protein exhibited an approximately 8- to 18-fold increased cytotoxic activity compared with the untargeted EHD2-scTRAIL fusion protein. This resulted in increased antitumor activity in a subcutaneous Colo205 xenograft tumor murine model. In summary, the scFv-EHD2-scTRAIL fusion protein combines target cell selectivity with an increased TRAIL activity leading to improved antitumor activities. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(1); 101–11. ©2013 AACR.
Molecular and Biologic Analysis of Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors with Diverse Specificities
Authors: Newbold Andrea , Matthews Geoffrey M. , Bots Michael , Cluse Leonie A. , Clarke Christopher J.P. , Banks Kellie-Marie , Cullinane Carleen , Bolden Jessica E. , Christiansen Ailsa J. , Dickins Ross A. , Miccolo Claudia , Chiocca Susanna , Kral Astrid M. , Ozerova Nicole D. , Miller Thomas A. , Methot Joey L. , Richon Victoria M. , Secrist J. Paul , Minucci Saverio , Johnstone Ricky W.
Published: October 2013

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are anticancer agents that induce hyperacetylation of histones, resulting in chromatin remodeling and transcriptional changes. In addition, nonhistone proteins, such as the chaperone protein Hsp90, are functionally regulated through hyperacetylation mediated by HDACis. Histone acetylation is thought to be primarily regulated by HDACs 1, 2, and 3, whereas the acetylation of Hsp90 has been proposed to be specifically regulated through HDAC6. We compared the molecular and biologic effects induced by an HDACi with broad HDAC specificity (vorinostat) with agents that predominantly inhibited selected class I HDACs (MRLB-223 and romidepsin). MRLB-223, a potent inhibitor of HDACs 1 and 2, killed tumor cells using the same apoptotic pathways as the HDAC 1, 2, 3, 6, and 8 inhibitor vorinostat. However, vorinostat induced histone hyperacetylation and killed tumor cells more rapidly than MRLB-223 and had greater therapeutic efficacy in vivo. FDCP-1 cells dependent on the Hsp90 client protein Bcr-Abl for survival, were killed by all HDACis tested, concomitant with caspase-dependent degradation of Bcr-Abl. These studies provide evidence that inhibition of HDAC6 and degradation of Bcr-Abl following hyperacetylation of Hsp90 is likely not a major mechanism of action of HDACis as had been previously posited. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(12); 2709–21. ©2013 AACR.
Surgery after Preoperative Chemotherapy for Patients with Unresectable Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Yamamoto Manabu , Sakaguchi Yoshihisa , Matsuyama Ayumi , Yoshinaga Keiji , Tsutsui Shinichi , Ishida Teruyoshi
Published: October 2013

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of surgery after preoperative chemotherapy for unresectable advanced gastric cancer. Method: Twenty patients with disappeared peritoneal dissemination or decreased lymph node metastasis by systemic chemotherapy underwent surgery (group S), while 14 with peritoneal dissemination or lymph nodes >N2 (group C) received continuous systemic chemotherapy. Among group S patients, 15 underwent a curative resection (group R0), while the other 5 did not microscopically undergo a curative resection (group R1). Results: The median survival time for all patients was 535 days. Survival time was significantly dependent on the chemotherapy response (p < 0.002). The survival period in group S was significantly longer than that in group C (median survival time 747 vs. 476 days; p < 0.02). The relapse-free survival was 299 days in group S. In particular, the survival period of patients who underwent R0 surgery by preoperative chemotherapy was significantly longer than that of group R1 patients (median survival time 794 vs. 485 days; p < 0.02). Multivariate analysis revealed that R0 surgery was a significant and independent prognostic factor. Conclusion: Surgery was effective for advanced gastric cancer patients when performed as R0 resection following the disappearance of non-curative factors by preoperative chemotherapy.
Comorbidities Associated with Vitiligo: A Ten-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Sheth Vaneeta M. , Guo Ye , Qureshi Abrar A.
Published: October 2013

Background: Vitiligo is a common disorder of depigmentation that has been associated with other autoimmune diseases. No recent large-scale data exist on the rates of comorbidities associated with vitiligo from the United States population. Objectives: To identify the prevalence of comorbidities as well as associated laboratory abnormalities in vitiligo patients. Methods: All medical records dating from January 1, 2000 to June 21, 2011 within the Research Patient Data Repository were evaluated retrospectively using a novel artificial intelligence-based computer program. A total of 3,280 patients carrying the diagnosis of vitiligo were identified using ICD-9 code 709.01. We randomly selected 300 patients and validated the diagnosis by manually reviewing their medical records. These results were used to create a model that was then applied to the larger set yielding 2,441 true vitiligo patients. 1,657 (68%) were diagnosed by dermatologists and 784 (32%) by non-dermatologists. We identified the prevalence of other comorbid autoimmune conditions by searching problem lists of vitiligo patients and collected laboratory data from the first available data point in the system for each patient. Results: Women were more frequently represented (57.6%) than men (42.4%). The majority of vitiligo patients were White/Caucasian (56.9%), followed by Hispanic/Latino (19.4%). 565 (23%) had one of the following comorbidities: 287 thyroid-related, 186 psoriasis, 72 rheumatoid arthritis, 59 alopecia areata, 55 inflammatory bowel disease, 53 systemic lupus and 20 type I diabetes mellitus. 41% had elevated anti-nuclear antibody levels. Almost half of the patients tested had elevated thyroid peroxidase antibodies. Over 50% of the patients tested had low or insufficient levels of 25-OH vitamin D. Conclusion: We found a high prevalence of comorbidities among individuals with vitiligo presenting to teaching hospitals in Boston, Mass. Comorbid autoimmune conditions were seen in 23% of vitiligo patients, thyroid disorders and psoriasis being the most common. Screening for these conditions, especially thyroid disorders, should be considered in vitiligo patients.
Physical Performance and Frailty in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Reese Peter P. , Cappola Anne R. , Shults Justine , Townsend Raymond R. , Gadegbeku Crystal A. , Anderson Cheryl , Baker Joshua F. , Carlow Dean , Sulik Michael J. , Lo Joan C. , Go Alan S. , Ky Bonnie , Mariani Laura , Feldman Harold I. , Leonard Mary B. ,   CRIC Study Investigators
Published: October 2013

Background: Poor physical performance and frailty are associated with elevated risks of death and disability. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is also strongly associated with these outcomes. The risks of poor physical performance and frailty among CKD patients, however, are not well established. Methods: We measured the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB; a summary test of gait speed, chair raises and balance; range 0-12) and the five elements of frailty among 1,111 Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort participants. Adjusting for demographics and multiple comorbidities, we fit a linear regression model for the outcome of SPPB score and an ordinal logistic regression model for frailty status. Results: Median (interquartile range, IQR) age was 65 (57-71) years, median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) for non-dialysis patients was 49 (36-62) ml/min/1.73 m2, and median SPPB score was 9 (7-10). Seven percent of participants were frail and 43% were pre-frail. Compared with the SPPB score for eGFR >60 ml/min/1.73 m2, the SPPB was 0.51 points lower for eGFR 30-59; 0.61 points lower for eGFR 15-29, and 1.75 points lower for eGFR <15 (p < 0.01 for all comparisons). eGFR 30-59 (odds ratio, OR 1.45; p = 0.024), eGFR 15-29 (OR 2.02; p = 0.002) and eGFR <15 (OR 4.83; p < 0.001) were associated with worse frailty status compared with eGFR >60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Conclusions: CKD severity was associated with poor physical performance and frailty in a graded fashion. Future trials should determine if outcomes for CKD patients with frailty and poor physical performance are improved by targeted interventions.
Eccrine Porocarcinoma: Clinical and Pathological Report of Eight Cases
Authors: Kurashige Yuta , Minemura Tokuya , Nagatani Tetsuo
Published: October 2013

Background: Eccrine porocarcinoma (EPC), a slow-growing carcinoma of the sweat gland, is a rare condition documented only in a small number of case series. Due to its rarity, guidelines and specific recommendations are not widely available. Accordingly, many dermatologists encounter difficulty in diagnosing and treating EPC. The aim of this study is to report the clinical and pathological features of EPC in order to contribute to the body of information currently available on the subject. Patients and Methods: From 2003 to 2013, 8 Japanese patients were diagnosed with EPC at the Department of Dermatology in the Hachioji Medical Center of Tokyo Medical University. Patient data, including clinical manifestations, histopathological findings, immunohistochemical results, treatment method, and clinical course were collected and documented. Results: The mean age of the patients (6 males and 2 females) was 72.6 years. The duration of the lesions ranged from 4 months to 5 years (mean: 3.5 years). All of the lesions clinically presented with erosive reddish nodules (mean size: 39.0 mm). Initial CT imaging revealed that 1 case had multiple distant metastases. Surgical resection was performed for all primary lesions and follow-up observations were available in all cases (mean: 10.9 months). One case with distal metastases underwent both radiation therapy and chemotherapy, but nevertheless succumbed to the disease. Conclusion: The EPC cases in our department presented a versatile clinical appearance and characteristic histopathological features.
Novel Family of Insect Salivary Inhibitors Blocks Contact Pathway Activation by Binding to Polyphosphate, Heparin, and Dextran Sulfate
Authors: Alvarenga Patricia H. , Xu Xueqing , Oliveira Fabiano , Chagas Andrezza C. , Nascimento Clarissa R. , Francischetti Ivo M.B. , Juliano Maria A. , Juliano Luiz , Scharfstein Julio , Valenzuela Jesus G. , Ribeiro José M.C. , Andersen John F.
Published: October 2013

Objective—

Polyphosphate and heparin are anionic polymers released by activated mast cells and platelets that are known to stimulate the contact pathway of coagulation. These polymers promote both the autoactivation of factor XII and the assembly of complexes containing factor XI, prekallikrein, and high-molecular-weight kininogen. We are searching for salivary proteins from blood-feeding insects that counteract the effect of procoagulant and proinflammatory factors in the host, including elements of the contact pathway.

Approach and Results—

Here, we evaluate the ability of the sand fly salivary proteins, PdSP15a and PdSP15b, to inhibit the contact pathway by disrupting binding of its components to anionic polymers. We attempt to demonstrate binding of the proteins to polyphosphate, heparin, and dextran sulfate. We also evaluate the effect of this binding on contact pathway reactions. We also set out to determine the x-ray crystal structure of PdSP15b and examine the determinants of relevant molecular interactions. Both proteins bind polyphosphate, heparin, and dextran sulfate with high affinity. Through this mechanism they inhibit the autoactivation of factor XII and factor XI, the reciprocal activation of factor XII and prekallikrein, the activation of factor XI by thrombin and factor XIIa, the cleavage of high-molecular-weight kininogen in plasma, and plasma extravasation induced by polyphosphate. The crystal structure of PdSP15b contains an amphipathic helix studded with basic side chains that forms the likely interaction surface.

Conclusions—

The results of these studies indicate that the binding of anionic polymers by salivary proteins is used by blood feeders as an antihemostatic/anti-inflammatory mechanism.
Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 Antagonist TM5441 Attenuates N
ω
-Nitro-
l
-Arginine Methyl Ester–Induced Hypertension and Vascular Senescence
Authors: Boe Amanda E. , Eren Mesut , Murphy Sheila B. , Kamide Christine E. , Ichimura Atsuhiko , Terry David , McAnally Danielle , Smith Layton H. , Miyata Toshio , Vaughan Douglas E.
Published: October 2013

Background—

Long-term inhibition of nitric oxide synthase by L-arginine analogues such as N
ω
-nitro-
l
-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) has been shown to induce senescence in vitro and systemic hypertension and arteriosclerosis in vivo. We previously reported that plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1)–deficient mice (PAI-1
−/−
) are protected against L-NAME-induced pathologies. In this study, we investigated whether a novel, orally active PAI-1 antagonist (TM5441) has a similar protective effect against L-NAME treatment. Additionally, we studied whether L-NAME can induce vascular senescence in vivo and investigated the role of PAI-1 in this process.

Methods and Results—

Wild-type mice received either L-NAME or L-NAME and TM5441 for 8 weeks. Systolic blood pressure was measured every 2 weeks. We found that TM5441 attenuated the development of hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy compared with animals that had received L-NAME alone. Additionally, TM5441-treated mice had a 34% reduction in periaortic fibrosis relative to animals on L-NAME alone. Finally, we investigated the development of vascular senescence by measuring p16
Ink4a
expression and telomere length in aortic tissue. We found that L-NAME increased p16
Ink4a
expression levels and decreased telomere length, both of which were prevented with TM5441 cotreatment.

Conclusions—

Pharmacological inhibition of PAI-1 is protective against the development of hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, and periaortic fibrosis in mice treated with L-NAME. Furthermore, PAI-1 inhibition attenuates the arterial expression of p16
Ink4a
and maintains telomere length. PAI-1 appears to play a pivotal role in vascular senescence, and these findings suggest that PAI-1 antagonists may provide a novel approach in preventing vascular aging and hypertension.
Criminal Liability for Vessel-Source Pollution in China: Law and Practice
Authors: Liu Nengye
Published: October 2013

Abstract

This article addresses criminal liability for vessel-source pollution in China. It describes relevant Chinese legislation regarding criminal liability for vessel-source pollution, analyses why a criminal case pertaining to vessel-source pollution has yet to be brought in Chinese courts and presents suggestions on how to improve the current regime.
The Practice and Innovation of General Education at University of Maryland: A Case Study
Authors: Lin Jing , Meng Qian , Weng Xuan
Published: October 2013

Universities in the U. S. have adopted new curriculum to meet changes in the world. But how bold is the change, and how expanded is the reform vary by institutions. In this article, we look at the new curriculum for general education at the University of Maryland as a case study. We will first conduct a review of literature, which provides readers with an overview of the evolvement of general education and how it leads to the current types of reforms. We then present the reform at the University of Maryland, highlighting some key changes such as the addition of the I-Series courses, to illustrate the depth and breadth in reform in general education, and finally we reflect on the innovation and challenges of the reform.
When Aristotle Meets Confucius: Liberal Arts Education for Sustainable Development; Reflections from Teaching a First Year Seminar in a U. S. College
Authors: Lou Jingjing
Published: October 2013

Based on the author’s personal reflection from teaching a first year seminar on ecology, development and education in a US liberal arts college, this article explores the desirability as well as possibility to incorporate Eastern philosophies into Western liberal arts education. The article highlights two lessons that the author has generated from her teaching experience. Both lessons focus on the acquisition of skillsets that are at the core to both liberal arts education and education for sustainable development, and how the introduction of Eastern philosophies and their perspectives helps students accomplish or further strengthen these skills. Specifically, students develop more critical thinking skills by shifting the paradigm, and practice liberal arts education in real life by bringing knowledge and action together, connecting individual to community, and linking the global to the local.
Globalization, Chinese-Culture and the Expansion of Higher Education System in Taiwan
Authors: Chiang Tien-Hui
Published: October 2013

The global market gives nation-states no choice but to be subject to its rules. As a result, they need to modify themselves to meet its requirements in order to gain access to the considerable amount of capitalist profit available. This adjustment is manifested in their higher education policies, as witnessed by the fact that many countries have been enlarging their higher education capacity in order to cultivate more human capital. This functions as a critical element in enhancing their international competitiveness in the global market. As Taiwan is a key member of this market, the above relationship is significant in the Taiwanese context. However, although globalization exercises a profound influence on higher education policy in a society such as Taiwan, social culture also plays a role in conditioning such policy. This essay argues that the significant expansion in the Taiwanese higher education system has occurred as a result of a combination of globalization and Chinese-culture.
On the Relationship of Soil Moisture and Extreme Temperatures in East China
Authors: Meng Lei , Shen Yanjun
Published: October 2013

Soil moisture conditions affect energy partitioning between sensible and latent heat fluxes, resulting in a change in surface temperatures. In this study, the relationships between antecedent soil moisture conditions [as indicated by the 6-month standardized precipitation index (SPI)] and several temperature indices are statistically quantified using the quantile regression analysis across East China to investigate the influence of soil moisture on summer surface temperatures. These temperature indices include percentage of hot days (%HD), heat-wave duration (HWD), daily temperature range (DTR), and daily minimum temperature (Tmin). It was demonstrated that soil moisture had a significant impact on %HD and HWD at higher quantiles in all regions but the east, suggesting that drier soil moisture conditions tend to intensity summer hot extremes. It was also found that hot extremes (%HD and HWD at higher quantiles) had increased substantially from 1958 to 2010. Soil moisture also significantly affected the DTR in all regions but tended to have more impacts on the DTR in soil moisture-limited regimes than in energy-limited regimes. This study provides observational evidence of soil moisture influences on hot extremes in East China.
Influence of the Background Wind on the Local Soil Moisture–Precipitation Feedback
Authors: Froidevaux Paul , Schlemmer Linda , Schmidli Juerg , Langhans Wolfgang , Schär Christoph
Published: October 2013

The importance of soil moisture anomalies on airmass convection over semiarid regions has been recognized in several studies. The underlying mechanisms remain partly unclear. An open question is why wetter soils can result in either an increase or a decrease of precipitation (positive or negative soil moisture–precipitation feedback, respectively). Here an idealized cloud-resolving modeling framework is used to explore the local soil moisture–precipitation feedback. The approach is able to replicate both positive and negative feedback loops, depending on the environmental parameters.

The mechanism relies on horizontal soil moisture variations, which may develop and intensify spontaneously. The positive expression of the feedback is associated with the initiation of convection over dry soil patches, but the convective cells then propagate over wet patches where they strengthen and preferentially precipitate. The negative feedback may occur when the wind profile is too weak to support the propagation of convective features from dry to wet areas. Precipitation is then generally weaker and falls preferentially over dry patches. The results highlight the role of the midtropospheric flow in determining the sign of the feedback. A key element of the positive feedback is the exploitation of both low convective inhibition (CIN) over dry patches (for the initiation of convection) and high CAPE over wet patches (for the generation of precipitation).
Compensation of Hemispheric Albedo Asymmetries by Shifts of the ITCZ and Tropical Clouds
Authors: Voigt Aiko , Stevens Bjorn , Bader Jürgen , Mauritsen Thorsten
Published: October 2013

Despite a substantial hemispheric asymmetry in clear-sky albedo, observations of Earth’s radiation budget reveal that the two hemispheres have the same all-sky albedo. Here, aquaplanet simulations with the atmosphere general circulation model ECHAM6 coupled to a slab ocean are performed to study to what extent and by which mechanisms clouds compensate hemispheric asymmetries in clear-sky albedo. Clouds adapt to compensate the imposed asymmetries because the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) shifts into the dark surface hemisphere. The strength of this tropical compensation mechanism is linked to the magnitude of the ITCZ shift. In some cases the ITCZ shift is so strong as to overcompensate the hemispheric asymmetry in clear-sky albedo, yielding a range of climates for which the hemisphere with lower clear-sky albedo has a higher all-sky albedo. The ITCZ shift is sensitive to the convection scheme and the depth of the slab ocean. Cloud–radiative feedbacks explain part of the sensitivity to the convection scheme as they amplify the ITCZ shift in the Tiedtke (TTT) scheme but have a neutral effect in the Nordeng (TNT) scheme. A shallower slab ocean depth, and thereby reduced thermal inertia of the underlying surface and increased seasonal cycle, stabilizes the ITCZ against annual-mean shifts. The results lend support to the idea that the climate system adjusts so as to minimize hemispheric albedo asymmetries, although there is no indication that the hemispheres must have exactly the same albedo.
Evaluation of the Parameter Sensitivities of a Coupled Land Surface Hydrologic Model at a Critical Zone Observatory
Authors: Shi Yuning , Davis Kenneth J. , Zhang Fuqing , Duffy Christopher J.
Published: October 2013

Land surface models (LSMs) and hydrologic models are parameterized models. The number of involved parameters is often large. Sensitivity analysis (SA) is a key step to understand the complex relationships between parameters and between state variables and parameters. SA is also critical to understand system dynamics and to examine the parameter identifiability. In this paper, parameter SA for a fully coupled, physically based, distributed land surface hydrologic model, namely, the Flux–Penn State Integrated Hydrologic Model (Flux–PIHM), is performed. Multiparameter and single-parameter tests are performed to examine the three dimensions of identifiability: distinguishability, observability, and simplicity. Results show that Flux–PIHM model predictions of discharge, water table depth, soil moisture, land surface temperature, and surface heat fluxes are very sensitive to the selection of parameter values. Parameter uncertainties produce large uncertainties in hydrologic and land surface variable predictions. The van Genuchten parameters α and β and the Zilitinkevich parameter Czil are the most identifiable among the 20 tested parameters. Results indicate that the land surface and the subsurface are closely coupled. Hydrologic parameters have significant influence on land surface simulations. At the same time, land surface parameters have considerable impacts on hydrologic simulations; the evapotranspiration prediction prior to a strong precipitation event is critical for initializing accurate prediction of discharge peaks. Results also show that parameter identifiability depends on seasons and canopy wetness. Parameter identifiability at high and low flow conditions can be extremely different. Complex system dynamics have been revealed during the SA.
Wind-Driven Sea Level Variability on the California Coast: An Adjoint Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Verdy Ariane , Mazloff Matthew R. , Cornuelle Bruce D. , Kim Sung Yong
Published: October 2013

Effects of atmospheric forcing on coastal sea surface height near Port San Luis, central California, are investigated using a regional state estimate and its adjoint. The physical pathways for the propagation of nonlocal [O(100 km)] wind stress effects are identified through adjoint sensitivity analyses, with a cost function that is localized in space so that the adjoint shows details of the propagation of sensitivities. Transfer functions between wind stress and SSH response are calculated and compared to previous work. It is found that (i) the response to local alongshore wind stress dominates on short time scales of O(1 day); (ii) the effect of nonlocal winds dominates on longer time scales and is carried by coastally trapped waves, as well as inertia–gravity waves for offshore wind stress; and (iii) there are significant seasonal variations in the sensitivity of SSH to wind stress due to changes in stratification. In a more stratified ocean, the damping of sensitivities to local and offshore winds is reduced, allowing for a larger and longer-lasting SSH response to wind stress.
Speeding Up the Computation of WRF Double-Moment 6-Class Microphysics Scheme with GPU
Authors: Mielikainen J. , Huang B. , Huang H.-L. A. , Goldberg M. D. , Mehta A.
Published: October 2013

The Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF) double-moment 6-class microphysics scheme (WDM6) implements a double-moment bulk microphysical parameterization of clouds and precipitation and is applicable in mesoscale and general circulation models. WDM6 extends the WRF single-moment 6-class microphysics scheme (WSM6) by incorporating the number concentrations for cloud and rainwater along with a prognostic variable of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) number concentration. Moreover, it predicts the mixing ratios of six water species (water vapor, cloud droplets, cloud ice, snow, rain, and graupel), similar to WSM6. This paper describes improving the computational performance of WDM6 by exploiting its inherent fine-grained parallelism using the NVIDIA graphics processing unit (GPU). Compared to the single-threaded CPU, a single GPU implementation of WDM6 obtains a speedup of 150× with the input/output (I/O) transfer and 206× without the I/O transfer. Using four GPUs, the speedup reaches 347× and 715×, respectively.
Herman Cain and the Rise of the Black Right
Authors: Henry Charles P.
Published: October 2013

There have always been Black conservatives. Some of the most prominent Black political figures in this country’s history from Booker T. Washington to Condoleezza Rice may be termed conservatives. However, these conservatives were not elected officials. They served in either unofficial roles or were appointed. The rise of conservative Black politicians with an electoral base such as Herman Cain and Allen West is a new phenomenon. At least in theory, such Black conservatives might find a base in the Black community among three constituencies—the Black church, the military, and African and West Indian immigrants. This article explores the likelihood of a mass base among Blacks for the rise of a Black Right. It contrasts the varieties of Black conservatism and gives special attention to the religious views of Herman Cain and Clarence Thomas contrasting them with the prophetic tradition in Black religion of such figures as Martin Luther King and Jeremiah Wright. Ultimately, the extreme individualism and absence of the notion of a linked racial fate distinguish them from the vast majority of Blacks.