bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sulforaphane suppresses cell growth and collagen expression of keloid fibroblasts
Authors: Kawarazaki Ayako , Horinaka Mano , Yasuda Shusuke , Numajiri Toshiaki , Nishino Kenichi , Sakai Toshiyuki
Published: January 2017

Keloids are fibroproliferative diseases characterized by the accumulation of an extracellular matrix including collagen. Various growth factors, or cytokines, and their receptors are overexpressed in keloids, and they are expected to be therapy targets. Sulforaphane, a dietary isothiocyanate, has recently shown anti‐tumor, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐fibrotic properties. In this study, we found that sulforaphane inhibited cell growth and reduced collagen at the mRNA and protein levels in keloid fibroblasts. Moreover, sulforaphane markedly suppressed the expression of IL‐6 and α‐SMA and inhibited Stat3 and Smad3 signaling pathways in keloid fibroblast KF112 cells. Sulforaphane induced G2/M cell‐cycle arrest with the induction of p21 in KF112 cells. In addition, sulforaphane inhibited cell growth and suppressed the expression of collagen in keloid fibroblasts under a coculture with peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Furthermore, sulforaphane suppressed IL‐6, Stat3, and Smad3 signaling in the coculture system. This study suggests that sulforaphane may be a novel keloid treatment.
Range expansion and ancestral niche reconstruction in the Mediterranean diving beetle genus Meladema (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
Authors: Sýkora Vit , García‐Vázquez David , Sánchez‐Fernández David , Ribera Ignacio
Published: January 2017

Species of the genus Meladema (Dytiscidae, Colymbetinae) are some of the largest macroinvertebrates in the western Palearctic region, being top predators in fishless streams. Two of the three described species, Meladema imbricata (Wollaston, 1871) and Meladema lanio (Fabricius, 1775) are Macaronesian endemics from the Canary Islands and Madeira, respectively, while the third, Meladema coriacea Laporte, 1835, is widely distributed from Morocco and the Iberian Peninsula to Turkey, including the Canary Islands. Previous phylogenetic analysis using only mitochondrial markers revealed the existence of two cryptic lineages within M. coriacea, one restricted to Corsica and the other including the rest of sampled populations. We reconstruct here the evolutionary history of the species of Meladema using a more comprehensive sampling covering its whole geographical range, adding nuclear markers and Bayesian molecular dating. Using environmental niche modelling, we test for possible differences in climatic preferences among lineages and reconstruct their ancestral climatic niche. Our results strongly supported the existence of four monophyletic lineages represented by the three recognized species plus a fourth cryptic lineage with populations of M. coriacea from the Tyrrhenian islands (Corsica, Sardinia and Montecristo). This pattern is not likely to be the result of mitochondrial artefacts due to Wolbachia infection, as all 11 tested individuals were negative for this parasite. Dating analysis placed the origin of Meladema in the Middle Miocene although diversification among extant Meladema lineages started in the early Pleistocene and took place in a relatively short time period. Phylogeographic analysis inferred a continental origin of Meladema, with an independent colonization of the Macaronesian and Mediterranean islands. From the south‐western Mediterranean region, the continental M. coriacea expanded its range up to Bulgaria and Turkey in the northern basin and to Tunisia in the southern. Results of niche modelling showed that seasonality is the critical factor in shaping the current distribution of Meladema. Island lineages (M. imbricata, M. lanio and the Tyrrhenian lineage of M. coriacea) occur in sites with low seasonality, within the range of the reconstructed ancestral climatic niche of the genus. On the contrary, continental M. coriacea expanded its range to localities outside the ancestral climatic range of the genus, with a higher seasonality and aridity.
Cine y nación. Negociación, construcción y representación identitaria en Colombia.
Authors: Villegas Álvaro
Published: January 2017

Cine y nación. Negociación, construcción y representación identitaria en Colombia
Simón Puerta Domínguez
Medellín: Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas,
Universidad de Antioquia, 2015. 243 pp.
Extensión de la escolaridad y obligatoriedad de la escuela secundaria en Argentina: el papel de la universalización de la lectura y escritura
Authors: Iñigo Luisa , Río Victoria
Published: January 2017

El presente artículo se propone abordar el vínculo entre la extensión de la escolaridad en Argentina y el desarrollo de la lectura y la escritura. Con ese fin, se parte de examinar el fenómeno de la universalización de esas capacidades en la sociedad capitalista, para luego analizar las transformaciones recientes en los procesos de trabajo que subyacen a esa extensión. Finalmente, se estudia el caso argentino en particular, en cuanto al papel de la escolarización de nivel secundario en el desarrollo de capacidades lectoras y escritoras. Para ello, se analizan los contenidos básicos curriculares del área de Lengua para el nivel secundario, así como algunos resultados de los Operativos Nacionales de Evaluación.
Automatic Tolerance Analysis for Assessing Manufacturing Errors in Machining Plans
Authors: Fu Wentao , Nelaturi Saigopal
Published: January 2017

In machining process planning, it is critical to ensure that the part created following the manufacturing steps complies with the designated design tolerances. However, the challenge is that manufacturing errors are stochastic in nature and are introduced at almost every step of executing a plan, for example, due to inaccuracy of tooling, misalignment of location, etc. Furthermore, these errors accumulate or “stack up” as the machining process progresses to inevitably produce a part that varies from the original design. The resulting variations should be within prescribed design tolerances for the manufactured part to be acceptable. In this work, we present a novel approach for assessing the manufacturing errors by representing variations of nominal features with transformations that are defined in terms of extents of the features' degrees-of-freedom (DOFs) within their design and manufacturing tolerance zones (MTZs). We show how the manufacturing errors stackup can be effectively represented by the composition and intersection of these transformations. Several examples representing scenarios of different complexities are demonstrated to show the applicability of our approach in assessing the influence of manufacturing errors on the design tolerances following a machining plan. Discussions of our approach are provided to address concerns with the accuracy and efficiency as well as to disclose the potential of our approach to enable a tolerance-aware process planning system.
Analysis of the Thermal Stress at the Tubesheet in Floating-Head or U-Tube Heat Exchangers
Authors: Liu Jiuyi , Qian Caifu , Li Huifang
Published: January 2017

Thermal stress is an important factor influencing the strength of a heat exchanger tubesheet. Some studies have indicated that, even in floating-head or U-tube heat exchangers, the thermal stress at the tubesheet is significant in magnitude. For exploring the value, distribution, and the influence factors of the thermal stress at the tubesheet of these kind heat exchangers, a tubesheet and triangle arranged tubes with the tube diameter of 25 mm were numerically analyzed. Specifically, the thermal stress at the tubesheet center is concentrated and analyzed with changing different parameters of the tubesheet, such as the temperature difference between tube-side and shell-side fluids, tubesheet diameter, thickness, and the tube-hole area ratio. It is found that the thermal stress of the tubesheet of floating-head or U-tube heat exchanger was comparable in magnitude with that produced by pressures, and the distribution of the thermal stress depends on the tube-hole area and the temperature inside the tubes. The thermal stress at the center of the tubesheet surface is high when tube-hole area ratio is very low. And with increasing the tube-hole area ratio, the stress first decreases rapidly and then increases linearly. A formula was numerically fitted for calculating the thermal stress at the tubesheet surface center which may be useful for the strength design of the tubesheet of floating-head or U-tube heat exchangers when considering the thermal stress. Numerical tests show that the fitted formula can meet the accuracy requirements for engineering applications.
Dilution Sensitivity of Particulate Matter Emissions From Reactivity-Controlled Compression Ignition Combustion
Authors: Fang Wei , Kittelson David B. , Northrop William F.
Published: January 2017

Dual-fuel reactivity-controlled compression ignition (RCCI) combustion can yield high thermal efficiency and simultaneously low NOx and soot emissions. Although soot emissions from RCCI are very low, hydrocarbon (HC) emissions are high, potentially resulting in higher than desired total particulate matter (PM) mass and number caused by semivolatile species converting the particle phase upon primary dilution in the exhaust plume. Such high organic fraction PM is known to be highly sensitive to dilution conditions used when collecting samples on a filter or when measuring particle number using particle sizing instruments. In this study, PM emissions from a modified single-cylinder diesel engine operating in RCCI and conventional diesel combustion (CDC) modes were investigated under controlled dilution conditions. To investigate the effect of the fumigated fuel on the PM emissions, 150 proof hydrous ethanol and gasoline were used as low reactivity fuels. The data reveal that PM from RCCI combustion is more sensitive to the variation of dilution conditions than PM from single fuel conventional diesel combustion. RCCI PM primarily consisted of semivolatile organic compounds and a smaller amount of solid carbonaceous particles. The fumigated fuel had a significant effect on PM emissions' characteristics for RCCI combustion. Hydrous ethanol fueled RCCI PM contained a larger fraction of volatile materials and was more sensitive to the variation of dilution conditions compared to the gasoline fueled RCCI mode.
Novel Compressor Blade Shaping Through a Free-Form Method
Authors: John Alistair , Shahpar Shahrokh , Qin Ning
Published: January 2017

This paper describes the use of the free-form-deformation (FFD) parameterization method to create a novel blade shape for a highly loaded, transonic axial compressor. The novel geometry makes use of precompression (via an S-shaping of the blade around midspan) to weaken the shock and improve the aerodynamic performance. It is shown how free-form-deformation offers superior flexibility over traditionally used parameterization methods. The novel design (produced via an efficient optimization method) is presented and the resulting flow is analyzed in detail. The efficiency benefit is over 2%, surpassing other results in the literature for the same geometry. The precompression effect of the S-shape is analyzed and explained, and the entropy increase across the shock (along the midblade line) is shown to be reduced by almost 80%. Adjoint surface sensitivity analysis of the datum and optimized designs is presented, showing that the S-shape is located in the region predicted to be most significant for changes in efficiency. Finally, the off-design performance of the blade is analyzed across the rotor characteristics at various speeds.
Direct Numerical Simulation Based Analysis of RANS Predictions of a Low-Pressure Turbine Cascade
Authors: Müller-Schindewolffs Christoph , Baier Ralf-D. , Seume Joerg R. , Herbst Florian
Published: January 2017

The state-of-the-art design of turbomachinery components is based on Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) solutions. RANS solvers model the effects of turbulence and boundary layer transition and therefore allow for a rapid prediction of the aerodynamic behavior. The only drawback is that modeling errors are introduced to the solution. Researchers and computational fluid dynamics developers are working on reducing these errors by improved model calibrations which are based on experimental data. These experiments do not typically, however, offer detailed insight into three-dimensional flow fields and the evolution of model quantities in an actual machine. This can be achieved through a direct step-by-step comparison of model quantities between RANS and direct numerical simulation (DNS). In the present work, the experimentally obtained model correlations are recomputed based on DNS of the same turbine profile simulated by RANS. The actual local values are compared to the modeled RANS results, providing information about the source of model deficits. The focus is on the transition process on the blade suction side (SS) and on evaluating the development of turbulent flow structures in the blade's wake. It is shown that the source of disagreement between RANS and DNS can be traced back to three major deficiencies that should be the focus of further model improvements.
A sparse equivalent source method for near-field acoustic holography
Authors: Fernandez-Grande Efren , Xenaki Angeliki , Gerstoft Peter
Published: January 2017

This study examines a near-field acoustic holography method consisting of a sparse formulation of the equivalent source method, based on the compressive sensing (CS) framework. The method, denoted Compressive–Equivalent Source Method (C-ESM), encourages spatially sparse solutions (based on the superposition of few waves) that are accurate when the acoustic sources are spatially localized. The importance of obtaining a non-redundant representation, i.e., a sensing matrix with low column coherence, and the inherent ill-conditioning of near-field reconstruction problems is addressed. Numerical and experimental results on a classical guitar and on a highly reactive dipole-like source are presented. C-ESM is valid beyond the conventional sampling limits, making wide-band reconstruction possible. Spatially extended sources can also be addressed with C-ESM, although in this case the obtained solution does not recover the spatial extent of the source.
Comparison of Two Rehabilitation Protocols on Patient- and Disease-Oriented Outcomes in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Kosik Kyle , Treada Masafumi , McCann Ryan , Boland Samantha , Gribble Phillip A.
Published: January 2017

Proximal neuromuscular alterations are hypothesized to contribute to the patient- and disease-oriented deficits observed in CAI individuals. The objective was to compare the efficacy of two 4-week intervention programs with or without proximal joint exercises. Twenty-three individuals with CAI completed this single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Outcome measures included the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) and the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). A time main effect was observed for the FAAM-ADL (p = .013), FAAM-Sport (p = .012), and posteromedial (p = .04) and posterolateral (p = .003) SEBT reach directions. No group main effect or time by group interaction was found. Four weeks of supervised rehabilitation improved self-reported function and dynamic balance in people with CAI.
Do Patients With Cervical Radiculopathy Benefit From the Addition of Cervical Traction to a Rehabilitation Program? A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Vetroczky Nicole , Lauber Christine A.
Published: January 2017

Clinical Question:

In patients with cervical radiculopathy and associated pain, is there a benefit to including intermittent, mechanical cervical traction to a multimodal treatment approach to reduce cervical pain and disability?

Clinical Bottom Line:

The majority of best evidence suggests favorable outcomes regarding decreasing cervical pain and disability with the inclusion of intermittent, mechanical cervical traction into a multimodal treatment approach.
Effects of Fatigue on the BTrackS Balance Test for Concussion Management
Authors: Benedict Scott E. , Hinshaw Jeffrey W. , Byron-Fields Ryan , Baweja Harsimran S. , Goble Daniel J.
Published: January 2017

Fatigue has been shown to adversely affect balance results, as measured by the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS). The present study aimed to determine whether a new low-cost force plate for concussion balance assessment, the Balance Tracking System (BTrackS), is subject to similar fatigue effects. Significant fatigue effects were only evident immediately following a fatigue protocol (p > .05), and were fully resolved within 5 min postfatigue. These results suggest that the BTrackS Balance Test (BBT) is more fatigue resistant than the BESS, and support use of the BBT as a potentially more reliable alternative to the BESS during immediate sideline balance testing.
Supercompensation Kinetics of Physical Qualities During a Taper in Team-Sport Athletes
Authors: Marrier Bruno , Robineau Julien , Piscione Julien , Lacome Mathieu , Peeters Alexis , Hausswirth Christophe , Morin Jean-Benoît , Le Meur Yann
Published: January 2017

Peaking for major competition is considered critical for maximizing team-sport performance. However, there is little scientific information available to guide coaches in prescribing efficient tapering strategies for team-sport players.

Purpose:

To monitor the changes in physical performance in elite team-sport players during a 3-wk taper after a preseason training camp.

Methods:

Ten male international rugby sevens players were tested before (Pre) and after (Post) a 4-wk preseason training camp focusing on high-intensity training and strength training with moderate loads and once each week during a subsequent 3-wk taper. During each testing session, midthigh-pull maximal strength, sprint-acceleration mechanical outputs, and performance, as well as repeated-sprint ability (RSA), were assessed.

Results:

At Post, no single peak performance was observed for maximal lower-limb force output and sprint performance, while RSA peaked for only 1 athlete. During the taper, 30-m-sprint time decreased almost certainly (–3.1% ± 0.9%, large), while maximal lower-limb strength and RSA, respectively, improved very likely (+7.7% ± 5.3%, small) and almost certainly (+9.0% ± 2.6%, moderate). Of the peak performances, 70%, 80%, and 80% occurred within the first 2 wk of taper for RSA, maximal force output, and sprint performance, respectively.

Conclusions:

These results show the sensitivity of physical qualities to tapering in rugby sevens players and suggest that an ~1- to 2-wk tapering time frame appears optimal to maximize the overall physical-performance response.
Timing Effect on Training-Session Rating of Perceived Exertion in Top-Class Soccer Referees
Authors: Castagna Carlo , Bizzini Mario , Póvoas Susana Cristina Araújo , D’Ottavio Stefano
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To examine the effect of recall timing on training-session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) in a population of athletes well familiarized with the method and procedures during a 5-d training microcycle.

Methods:

Fifty-one top-class field referees (FRs) (age 38.4 ± 3.3 y, height 181 ± 5.6 cm, body mass 76.8 ± 6.8 kg, body-mass index 23.4 ± 1.7 kg/m2, body fat 20.4% ± 3.6%, international refereeing experience 5 ± 3.5 y) from 43 national football associations worldwide, preselected by the FIFA refereeing department for officiating during the FIFA World Cup 2014 Brazil, volunteered for this study. The FRs were randomly allocated into 3 assessment groups (n = 17 each), defined according to the timing of the sRPE, ie, immediately at the end of or 30 min or 7 h after the training sessions’ end. The CR10 Borg scale was used to rate the training sessions (n = 5). All FRs again rated each training session of the 5-d training microcycle on the next morning (~20 h after) for confirmation (absolute and relative reliability).

Results:

No significant timing effect was found between or within groups. Relative reliability ranged from large to very large with trivial within- and between-groups differences.

Conclusions:

This study showed no effect of recall timing on postexercise RPE when well-familiarized athletes are submitted to training during a weekly microcycle. Posttraining RPE was reported to be a reliable subjective measure; however, specific timing is advisable to reduce difference in RPE values.
The Effects of a Multicomponent Dyadic Intervention With Physical Exercise on the Cognitive Functioning of People With Dementia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Prick Anna-Eva , de Lange Jacomine , Scherder Erik , Twisk Jos , Pot Anne Margriet
Published: January 2017

The objective was to evaluate the effects of a multicomponent dyadic intervention on the cognitive functioning of people with dementia living at home in a randomized controlled trial. People with dementia and their family caregivers (n = 111) were randomly assigned to 8 home-based sessions including physical exercise and support or a minimal intervention consisting of monthly written information bulletins and monthly phone calls. Memory, executive functioning (EF), and attention were assessed at baseline, and after 3 (postmeasurement) and 6 months (follow-up). Data were analyzed by using generalized estimating equations (GEE). A small, significant effect was found on attention. No effects were found on memory and EF. Finding only a small significant effect might be explained by the ineffectiveness of the intervention, but also by moderate treatment adherence or a lack of room for improvement because half of the people with dementia were already receiving care in a day care facility.
The Effect of League Brand on the Relationship Between the Team Brand and Behavioral Intentions: A Formative Approach Examining Brand Associations and Brand Relationships
Authors: Kunkel Thilo , Funk Daniel C. , Lock Daniel
Published: January 2017

Understanding the role of the league brand on consumers’ support for individual teams is important for the successful management and marketing of both leagues and teams. In the current research, brand architecture and brand association literature are integrated to examine the role of the league brand on the relationship between the team brand and team-related behavior. Data from an online survey of professional soccer league consumers (N = 414) were analyzed using structural equation modeling with bootstrapping procedures. The relationship between the team brand and team-related behavior was partially mediated by the league brand. Findings of this research contribute new knowledge by empirically demonstrating that characteristics of the league brand have an influence on team-related behavioral intentions. Furthermore, we contribute a different analytical approach for brand association research using formative indicators to measure team and league brand associations. In the managerial implications, we outline how league managers can support individual teams and how team managers can leverage off the league brand to attract consumers.
Do Verbal and Tactile Cueing Selectively Alter Gluteus Maximus and Hamstring Recruitment During a Supine Bridging Exercise in Active Females? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hollman John H. , Berling Tyler A. , Crum Ellen O. , Miller Kelsie M. , Simmons Brent T. , Youdas James W.
Published: January 2017

Context:Hip extension with hamstring-dominant rather than gluteus maximus-dominant recruitment may increase anterior femoracetabular forces and contribute to conditions that cause hip pain. Cueing methods during hip extension exercises may facilitate greater gluteus maximus recruitment.Objective:We examined whether specific verbal and tactile cues facilitate gluteus maximus recruitment while inhibiting hamstring recruitment during a bridging exercise.Design:Randomized controlled trial.Setting:Biomechanics laboratory.Participants:30 young adult women (age 24 [3] y; BMI 22.2 [2.4] kg/m2).Intervention:Participants were tested over 2 sessions, 1 week apart, while performing 5 repetitions of a bridging exercise. At their second visit, participants in the experimental group received verbal and tactile cues intended to facilitate gluteus maximus recruitment and inhibit hamstring recruitment. Control group participants received no additional cues beyond original instructions.Main Outcome Measures:Gluteus maximus and hamstring recruitment were measured with surface electromyography, normalized to maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs).Results:Gluteus maximus recruitment was unchanged in the control group and increased from 16.8 to 33.0% MVIC in the cueing group (F = 33.369,P < .001). Hamstring recruitment was unchanged in the control group but also increased from 16.5 to 29.8% MVIC in the cueing group (F = 6.400,P = .02). The effect size of the change in gluteus maximus recruitment in the cueing group (Cohen’sd = 1.5, 95% CI = 0.9 to 2.2) was not significantly greater than the effect size in hamstring recruitment (Cohen’sd = 0.8, 95% CI = 0.1 to 1.5).Conclusions:Verbal and tactile cues hypothesized to facilitate gluteus maximus recruitment yielded comparable increases in both gluteus maximus and hamstring recruitment. If one intends to promote hip extension by facilitating gluteus maximus recruitment while inhibiting hamstring recruitment during bridging exercises, the cueing methods employed in this study may not produce desired effects.
Heart Rate Response and Variability Following Maximal Exercise in Overweight Children
Authors: Guilkey Justin P. , Dykstra Brandon , Erichsen Jennifer , Mahon Anthony D.
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

This study examined heart rate recovery (HRR) and heart rate variability (HRV) following maximal exercise in lean (<85th percentile age- and sex-BMI percentile; n = 11 (♂=5; ♀=6); 10.1 ± 0.7 years) and overweight (≥85th age- and sex-BMI percentile; n = 11 (♂=5; ♀=6); 10.5 ± 1.2 years) children.

Method:

Participants completed a 10-min rest, followed by a graded exercise test to maximal effort. HRV, in the time and frequency domains, was assessed during rest and recovery. Also during recovery, one-minute HRR and the time constant of a monoexponential line of best fit (HRRt) were determined.

Results:

There were no significant differences in one-minute HRR and HRRt between the lean (56 ± 7 beats∙min-1 and 160.4 ± 80.1 s, respectively) and overweight (51 ± 16 beats∙min-1 and 141.1 ± 58.1 s, respectively) groups. There also were no significant interactions between groups from rest to recovery for any HRV variables. Root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) and high frequency power (HF) during recovery was 2.05 ± 0.49 ms and 3.30 ± 1.02 ms2 in the lean children, respectively. In the overweight children, RMSSD and HF were 1.88 ± 0.65 ms and 2.94 ± 1.27 ms2, respectively.

Conclusion:

HRR and HRV findings suggest there are no differences in autonomic function during recovery from maximal exercise in lean and obese 8- to 12-year old children.
Associations of Objectively Measured Physical Activity and Sedentary Time With Arterial Stiffness in Pre-Pubertal Children
Authors: Haapala Eero A. , Väistö Juuso , Veijalainen Aapo , Lintu Niina , Wiklund Petri , Westgate Kate , Ekelund Ulf , Lindi Virpi , Brage Soren , Lakka Timo A.
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To investigate the relationships of objectively measured physical activity (PA) and sedentary time (ST) to arterial stiffness in prepubertal children.

Method:

Altogether 136 children (57 boys, 79 girls) aged 6–8-years participated in the study. Stiffness index (SI) was assessed by pulse contour analysis based on photoplethysmography. ST, light PA, moderate PA, and vigorous PA were assessed using combined acceleration and heart rate monitoring. We investigated the associations of ST (<1.5METs) and time spent in intensity level of PA above 2–7METs in min/d with SI using linear regression analysis. We studied the optimal duration and intensity of PA to identify children being in the highest quarter of SI using Receiver Operating Characteristics curves.

Results:

Moderate PA, vigorous PA, and cumulative time spent in PA above 3 (β=–0.279, p = .002), 4 (β =–0.341, P<0.001), 5 (β =–0.349, P<0.001), 6 (β =–0.312, P<0.001), and 7 (β =–0.254, p = .005) METs were inversely associated with SI after adjustment for age, sex, and monitor wear time. The cutoffs for identifying children being in the highest quarter of SI <68 min/d for PA exceeding 5 METs and <26 min/d for PA exceeding 6 METs.

Conclusion:

Lower levels of PA exceeding 3–6 METs were related to higher arterial stiffness in children.
Beta-Alanine Supplementation Improves Throwing Velocities in Repeated Sprint Ability and 200-m Swimming Performance in Young Water Polo Players
Authors: Claus Gabriel Machado , Redkva Paulo Eduardo , Brisola Gabriel Mota Pinheiro , Malta Elvis Sousa , de Araujo Bonetti de Poli Rodrigo , Miyagi Willian Eiji , Zagatto Alessandro Moura
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of beta–alanine supplementation on specific tests for water polo. Fifteen young water polo players (16 ± 2 years) underwent a 200-m swimming performance, repeated-sprint ability test (RSA) with free throw (shooting), and 30-s maximal tethered eggbeater kicks. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups (placebo × beta-alanine) and supplemented with 6.4g∙day-1of beta-alanine or a placebo for six weeks. The mean and total RSA times, the magnitude based inference analysis showed a likely beneficial effect for beta-alanine supplementation (both). The ball velocity measured in the throwing performance after each sprint in the RSA presented a very like beneficial inference in the beta-alanine group for mean (96.4%) and percentage decrement of ball velocity (92.5%, likely beneficial). Furthermore, the percentage change for mean ball velocity was different between groups (beta-alanine=+2.5% and placebo=-3.5%; p = .034). In the 30-s maximal tethered eggbeater kicks the placebo group presented decreased peak force, mean force, and fatigue index, while the beta-alanine group maintained performance in mean force (44.1%, possibly beneficial), only presenting decreases in peak force. The 200-m swimming performance showed a possibly beneficial effect (68.7%). Six weeks of beta-alanine supplementation was effective for improving ball velocity shooting in the RSA, maintaining performance in the 30-s test, and providing possibly beneficial effects in the 200-m swimming performance.
Minimum Wear Duration for the activPAL Professional Activity Monitor in Adolescent Females
Authors: Dowd Kieran P. , Purtill Helen , Harrington Deirdre. M. , Hislop Jane F. , Reilly John J. , Donnelly Alan E.
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

This study aims to determine the minimum number of days of monitoring required to reliably predict sitting/lying time, standing time, light intensity physical activity (LIPA), moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and steps in adolescent females.

Method:

195 adolescent females (mean age = 15.7 years; SD = 0.9) participated in the study. Participants wore the activPAL activity monitor for a seven day protocol. The amount of time spent sitting/lying, standing, in LIPA and in MVPA and the number of steps per day were quantified. Spearman-Brown Prophecy formulae were used to predict the number of days of data required to achieve an intraclass correlation coefficient of both 0.7 and 0.8.

Results:

For the percentage of the waking day spent sitting/lying, standing, in LIPA and in MVPA, a minimum of 9 days of accelerometer recording is required to achieve a reliability of ≥ 0.7, while a minimum of 15 days is required to achieve a reliability of ≥ 0.8. For steps, a minimum of 12 days of recording is required to achieve a reliability of ≥ 0.7, with 21 days to achieve a reliability of ≥ 0.8.

Conclusion:

Future research in adolescent females should collect a minimum of 9 days of accelerometer data to reliably estimate sitting/lying time, standing time, LIPA and MVPA, while 12 days is required to reliably estimate steps.
Abnormal neurogenesis and cortical growth in congenital heart disease
Authors: Morton Paul D. , Korotcova Ludmila , Lewis Bobbi K. , Bhuvanendran Shivaprasad , Ramachandra Shruti D. , Zurakowski David , Zhang Jiangyang , Mori Susumu , Frank Joseph A. , Jonas Richard A. , Gallo Vittorio , Ishibashi Nobuyuki
Published: January 2017

Congenital heart disease depletes SVZ neural stem/progenitor cell pools critical for normal cortical growth.
RON kinase: A target for treatment of cancer-induced bone destruction and osteoporosis
Authors: Andrade Kelsi , Fornetti Jaime , Zhao Ling , Miller Scott C. , Randall R. Lor , Anderson Neysi , Waltz Susan E. , McHale Mark , Welm Alana L.
Published: January 2017

Inhibition of RON kinase prevents pathogenic bone destruction in mouse models and in a first-in-human clinical study.
CD99 is a therapeutic target on disease stem cells in myeloid malignancies
Authors: Chung Stephen S. , Eng William S. , Hu Wenhuo , Khalaj Mona , Garrett-Bakelman Francine E. , Tavakkoli Montreh , Levine Ross L. , Carroll Martin , Klimek Virginia M. , Melnick Ari M. , Park Christopher Y.
Published: January 2017

CD99 is a potential therapeutic target enriched on disease stem cells in myeloid malignancies.
The K-complexes they are a-changin’
Authors: Lucey Brendan P.
Published: January 2017

Reduced frequency of K-complex waveforms on EEG during non-REM sleep may help to differentiate patients with Alzheimer’s disease from older healthy individuals.
Suppressing oncogenic transcription with a little healthy competition
Authors: Wood Kris C.
Published: January 2017

Therapeutic strategies that stabilize wild-type MLL proteins have selective activity in
MLL
-rearranged leukemias.
The Use of Group Activities in Introductory Biology Supports Learning Gains and Uniquely Benefits High-Achieving Students
Authors: Marbach-Ad Gili , Rietschel Carly H. , Saluja Neeti , Carleton Karen L. , Haag Eric S.
Published: January 2017

This study describes the implementation and effectiveness of small-group active engagement (GAE) exercises in an introductory biology course (BSCI207) taught in a large auditorium setting. BSCI207 (Principles of Biology III—Organismal Biology) is the third introductory core course for Biological Sciences majors. In fall 2014, the instructors redesigned one section to include GAE activities to supplement lecture content. One section (
n
= 198) employed three lectures per week. The other section (
n
= 136) replaced one lecture per week with a GAE class. We explored the benefits and challenges associated with implementing GAE exercises and their relative effectiveness for unique student groups (e.g., minority students, high- and low-grade point average [GPA] students). Our findings show that undergraduates in the GAE class exhibited greater improvement in learning outcomes than undergraduates in the traditional class. Findings also indicate that high-achieving students experienced the greatest benefit from GAE activities. Some at-risk student groups (e.g., two-year transfer students) showed comparably low learning gains in the course, despite the additional support that may have been afforded by active learning. Collectively, these findings provide valuable feedback that may assist other instructors who wish to revise their courses and recommendations for institutions regarding prerequisite coursework approval policies.
How to Assess Your CURE: A Practical Guide for Instructors of Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences
Authors: Shortlidge Erin E. , Brownell Sara E.
Published: January 2017

Integrating research experiences into undergraduate life sciences curricula in the form of course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) can meet national calls for education reform by giving students the chance to “do science.” In this article, we provide a step-by-step practical guide to help instructors assess their CUREs using best practices in assessment. We recommend that instructors first identify their anticipated CURE learning outcomes, then work to identify an assessment instrument that aligns to those learning outcomes and critically evaluate the results from their course assessment. To aid instructors in becoming aware of what instruments have been developed, we have also synthesized a table of “off-the-shelf” assessment instruments that instructors could use to assess their own CUREs. However, we acknowledge that each CURE is unique and instructors may expect specific learning outcomes that cannot be assessed using existing assessment instruments, so we recommend that instructors consider developing their own assessments that are tightly aligned to the context of their CURE.
Video Lecture Capture Technology Helps Students Study without Affecting Attendance in Large Microbiology Lecture Courses
Authors: McLean Jennifer L. , Suchman Erica L.
Published: January 2017

Recording lectures using video lecture capture software and making them available for students to watch anytime, from anywhere, has become a common practice in many universities across many disciplines. The software has become increasingly easy to use and is commonly provided and maintained by higher education institutions. Several studies have reported that students use lecture capture to enhance their learning and study for assessments, as well as to catch up on material they miss when they cannot attend class due to extenuating circumstances. Furthermore, students with disabilities and students from non-English Speaking Backgrounds (NESB) may benefit from being able to watch the video lecture captures at their own pace. Yet, the effect of this technology on class attendance remains a controversial topic and largely unexplored in undergraduate microbiology education. Here, we show that when video lecture captures were available in our large enrollment general microbiology courses, attendance did not decrease. In fact, the majority of students reported that having the videos available did not encourage them to skip class, but rather they used them as a study tool. When we surveyed NESB students and nontraditional students about their attitudes toward this technology, they found it helpful for their learning and for keeping up with the material.
A Model for a Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) in a Field Setting
Authors: Thompson Seth K. , Neill Connor J. , Wiederhoeft Ellen , Cotner Sehoya
Published: January 2017

Engaging interested students in field-based research experiences is imperative for cultivating interest in field science and preparing students for a career in field-based science. Here we provide a framework for completing meaningful, authentic course-based research in a five-week field course. Student research outcomes and feedback suggest that a five-week course can provide students a significant research experience that not only develops student interest in pursuing field research, but also improvements in their science-process skills. By using this course-based model, we intend to make field-based research experiences accessible to a broader range of students, increasing the opportunities for all students to explore this dimension of scientific research.
A Cost-Effective Approach to Producing Animated Infographics for Immunology Teaching
Authors: Bellei Maria , Welch Paul , Pryor Sally , Ketheesan Natkunam
Published: January 2017

Multimedia resources such as video and animations are increasingly used to enhance student engagement and understanding, particularly when teaching cognitively complex concepts. However, the creation of animation is time-consuming and hence, expensive compared to the creation of graphics. Recognizing this and the challenges students face in learning immunology, we describe here a process of a multi-disciplinary collaboration that produced a series of 3-minute animated infographics videos for tertiary-level immunology teaching within an Australian university. We evaluate the benefit of these and their merit as supplemental curriculum resources to enhance learning.
Looking through the Lens: Adapting and Modifying Photovoice Projects for Active Learning and Engagement in Biology
Authors: Moitra Karobi
Published: January 2017

Photovoice projects traditionally include original visual imagery and minimal text to tell a powerful story. Photovoice student projects have been utilized in the health and social sciences to involve students with the local community and also in community-based projects to help at-risk youth call attention to their community problems, such as disease and drug use. The tool of the photovoice can be used in the biology classroom to engage students in the active learning process through community-based projects.
Enhancing Scientific Literacy in the Undergraduate Cell Biology Laboratory Classroom
Authors: Woodham Hadiya , Marbach-Ad Gili , Downey Gretchen , Tomei Erika , Thompson Katerina
Published: January 2017

This paper describes the implementation of the Scientific Literacy in Cell Biology (SLCB) curriculum in an undergraduate biology laboratory course. The SLCB curriculum incorporated the reading and discussion of primary literature into hands-on and collaborative practical experiences. It was implemented in five stages over an 11-week period, during which students were also introduced to the theory and practice of common cell biology techniques. We report on the effectiveness of the course, as measured by pre- and post-course survey data probing students’ content knowledge and their level of familiarity, confidence, and experience with different skills pertaining to analyzing (reading, interpreting, and discussing) primary literature. In the spring 2015 semester, 287 (72%) of the 396 students who were enrolled in the laboratory completed both the pre- and post-course survey. The average score on the content questions of the post-course survey was significantly higher (
p
< 0.0001) than the average score on the pre-course survey. Students reported that they gained greater familiarity, experience, and confidence in the skills that were measured. Our findings may aid in reforming higher-education science laboratory courses to better promote writing, reading, data processing, and presentation skills. Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education
Exploring Catalase and Invertase Activity Using Sodium Alginate-Encapsulated Yeast (Yeast Spheres)
Authors: Bryer Pamela J.
Published: January 2017

Finding the right enzyme experiment can be problematic, depending what one is trying to show, what supplies and equipment are available, and the time one can devote to the topic. I’ve developed simple and inexpensive labs for looking at catalase and invertase activity using yeast encapsulated in sodium alginate. Single-celled yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, are encapsulated in sodium alginate, a readily available extract from brown algae that, when it comes in contact with calcium chloride (CaCl2), forms a sphere or “bead.” These spheres may then be put into a solution containing substrate to test for enzyme activity. The spheres are easy to manipulate, one doesn’t have the variability and mess of a yeast solution, and since there are no cells in solution, there is nothing to interfere with the various assay methods one might want to use to test for product. The graduated cylinder method for testing catalase activity introduced here is especially good for collecting large amounts of data that enable students to use statistics and, unlike similar yeast catalase experiments using paper disks and a yeast solution, the yeast spheres are easy to manipulate and there is very little variability. I have used this procedure with students in class and with teachers in workshops with positive results and comments.
Effects of the Dietary Protein and Carbohydrate Ratio on Gut Microbiomes in Dogs of Different Body Conditions
Authors: Li Qinghong , Lauber Christian L. , Czarnecki-Maulden Gail , Pan Yuanlong , Hannah Steven S.
Published: January 2017

Obesity has become a health epidemic in both humans and pets. A dysbiotic gut microbiota has been associated with obesity and other metabolic disorders. High-protein, low-carbohydrate (HPLC) diets have been recommended for body weight loss, but little is known about their effects on the canine gut microbiome. Sixty-three obese and lean Labrador retrievers and Beagles (mean age, 5.72 years) were fed a common baseline diet for 4 weeks in phase 1, followed by 4 weeks of a treatment diet, specifically, the HPLC diet (49.4% protein, 10.9% carbohydrate) or a low-protein, high-carbohydrate (LPHC) diet (25.5% protein, 38.8% carbohydrate) in phase 2. 16S rRNA gene profiling revealed that dietary protein and carbohydrate ratios have significant impacts on gut microbial compositions. This effect appeared to be more evident in obese dogs than in lean dogs but was independent of breed. Consumption of either diet increased the bacterial evenness, but not the richness, of the gut compared to that after consumption of the baseline diet. Macronutrient composition affected taxon abundances, mainly within the predominant phyla,
Firmicutes
and
Bacteroidetes
. The LPHC diet appeared to favor the growth of
Bacteroides uniformis
and
Clostridium butyricum
, while the HPLC diet increased the abundances of
Clostridium hiranonis
,
Clostridium perfringens
, and
Ruminococcus gnavus
and enriched microbial gene networks associated with weight maintenance. In addition, we observed a decrease in the
Bacteroidetes
to
Firmicutes
ratio and an increase in the
Bacteroides
to
Prevotella
ratio in the HPLC diet-fed dogs compared to these ratios in dogs fed other diets. Finally, analysis of the effect of diet on the predicted microbial gene network was performed using phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved states (PICRUSt).

IMPORTANCE
More than 50% of dogs are either overweight or obese in the United States. A dysbiotic gut microbiota is associated with obesity and other metabolic problems in humans. HPLC diets have been promoted as an effective weight loss strategy for many years, and potential effects were reported for both humans and dogs. In this study, we explored the influence of the protein and carbohydrate ratio on the gut microbiome in dogs with different body conditions. We demonstrated significant dietary effects on the gut microbiome, with greater changes in obese dogs than in lean dogs. The HPLC diet-fed dogs showed greater abundances of
Firmicutes
but fewer numbers of
Bacteroidetes
than other dogs. This knowledge will enable us to use prebiotics, probiotics, and other nutritional interventions to modulate the gut microbiota and to provide an alternative therapy for canine obesity.