bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Placental Growth Factor Promotes Metastases of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Through MMP9
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Ting , Lou Yuqing , Yan Bo , Cui Shaohua , Jiang Liyan , Han Baohui
Published: September 2015

Background/Aims: Neovascularization and invasion coordinate cancer metastases in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Recently, a substantial role of placental growth factor (PLGF) in cancer cell invasion has been acknowledged in several types of cancer, whereas a possible involvement of PLGF in the metastases of NSCLC has not been studied. Methods: Here, we analyzed the levels of PLGF and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) in NSCLC specimens. We modified either PLGF or MMP9 levels in a NSCLC cell line A549, and examined the effects on the levels of MMP9 and PLGF. The cell invasiveness was quantified in a transwell cell migration assay. Pathway inhibitors were applied to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying the control of MMP9 by PLGF. Results: We found that PLGF and MMP9 levels both significantly increased in the NSCLC specimens and were strongly correlated. Overexpression of PLGF in NSCLC cells increased the levels of MMP9 and cell invasiveness, while inhibition of PLGF in NSCLC cells decreased the levels of MMP9 and cell invasiveness. However, modification of MMP9 levels in NSCLC cells did not alter the levels of PLGF. These data suggest that PLGF may regulate MMP9 in NSCLC cells, but not vice versa. Moreover, inhibition of MMP9 in PLGF-overexpressing NSCLC cells abolished the effects of PLGF on cell invasiveness, suggesting that PLGF increases cell invasion via MMP9. Furthermore, suppression of MAPK-p38, but not suppression of either MAPK-p42/p44, or PI3k, or JNK signaling, substantially abolished the effect of PLGF on MMP9, suggesting that PLGF may activate MMP9 via MAPK-p38 signaling pathway. Conclusion: PLGF-stimulated cancer invasion may be mediated through its effects on MMP9 activation in NSCLC cells.
The Mechanism of Radiosensitization by YM155, a Novel Small Molecule Inhibitor of Survivin Expression, is Associated with DNA Damage Repair
Authors: Hu Songliu , Fu Songbin , Xu Xiangying , Chen Lin , Xu Jianyu , Li Bin , Qu Yuanyuan , Yu Hongyang , Lu Shan , Li Wenxin
Published: September 2015

Background/Aims: Survivin, a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein family, is an attractive target for cancer therapy. We investigated the effects of YM155, a small molecule inhibitor of survivin expression, on the radiosensitivity of human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines and elucidated a relationship between the cellular localization of survivin and DNA double-strand break repair. Methods: The cellular distribution of survivin was determined by Western blotting of subcellular fractions and by immunofluorescent staining in A549 NSCLC cells. Radiation-induced DNA damage was evaluated based on histone H2AX phosphorylation and foci formation. The relationship between the cellular localization of survivin and DNA double-strand break repair was analyzed by Western blotting and co-immunoprecipitations. Results: YM155 down-regulated survivin expression in NSCLC cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. An in vitro clonogenic survival assay revealed that YM155 increased the sensitivity of NSCLC cells to radiation. After irradiation, we observed a rapid accumulation of survivin in the nucleus. An immunofluorescent analysis of histone γ-H2AX demonstrated that the inhibition of survivin expression by YM155 resulted in impaired DNA double-strand break repair. Co-immunoprecipitation assays using nuclear extracts revealed an interaction between survivin, Ku70, γ-H2AX, and DNA-PKcs. Furthermore, S2056 autophosphorylation of DNA-PKcs was reduced in survivin-depleted cells. Conclusions: These results suggested that YM155 sensitized NSCLC cells to radiation, at least in part by inhibiting DNA repair and enhancing apoptosis via the down-regulation of survivin expression. YM155 pretreatment inhibited DNA-PKcs autophosphorylation at S2056. Nuclear survivin was involved in DNA double-strand break repair via interactions with members of the DNA double-strand break repair machinery.
Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy Appear Not to Be Associated with Alzheimer's Disease Later in Life
Authors: Abheiden Carolien N.H. , van Doornik Rebecca , Aukes Annet M. , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Scheltens Philip , de Groot Christianne J.M.
Published: September 2015

Background: After hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, more subjective cognitive complaints and white matter lesions are reported compared to women after normal pregnancies. Both have a causal relationship with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Aim: To investigate if women whose pregnancy was complicated by hypertensive disorders have an increased risk of AD. Methods: A case-control study in women with AD from the Alzheimer Center of the VU University Medical Center Amsterdam and women without AD. Paper and telephone surveys were performed. Results: The response rate was 85.2%. No relation between women with (n = 104) and without AD (n = 129) reporting pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disorders (p = 0.11) was found. Women with early-onset AD reported hypertensive disorders of pregnancy more often (p = 0.02) compared to women with late-onset AD. Conclusion: A reported history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy appears not to be associated with AD later in life.
Impact of Frontal Lobe Function and Behavioral Changes on Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Parkinson's Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study from Southwest China
Authors: Guo Xiaoyan , Song Wei , Chen Ke , Chen Xueping , Zheng Zhenzhen , Cao Bei , Huang Rui , Zhao Bi , Wu Ying , Shang Hui-Fang
Published: September 2015

Background: Cognitive impairment may negatively impact the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, information on the effects of frontal lobe function and behavior changes on the HRQoL of the Chinese PD population is limited. Studies on the associations among frontal lobe function, behavioral changes and the HRQoL may help optimize the treatment and improve the HRQoL of PD patients. Methods: A total of 309 PD patients were evaluated using the Frontal Assessment Battery, the Frontal Behavioral Inventory (FBI) and the PD Questionnaire 39-item version (PDQ-39). Results: Patients with worse frontal lobe function were older (p < 0.001), had longer disease durations (p = 0.002), higher Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III (UPDRS-III) scores (p < 0.001) and higher Hoehn and Yahr (H-Y) stages (p = 0.001), and exhibited significantly higher PDQ-39 summary index (SI; p = 0.001) compared with those who had better frontal lobe function. In addition, the disease duration (p = 0.008), UPDRS-III scores (p < 0.001), H-Y stage (p < 0.001), PDQ-39 SI and scores for each domain of the PDQ-39 (p < 0.001) were higher as the severity of frontal behavioral changes increased. The total FBI score (p < 0.001) was positively correlated with the PDQ-39 SI. Conclusions: Frontal behavioral changes were closely associated with poor HRQoL in Chinese PD patients.
Combined Tin-Containing Fluoride Solution and CO2 Laser Treatment Reduces Enamel Erosion in vitro
Authors: Esteves-Oliveira Marcella , Witulski Nadine , Hilgers Ralf-Dieter , Apel Christian , Meyer-Lueckel Hendrik , de Paula Eduardo Carlos
Published: September 2015

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of combined CO2 laser and tin-containing fluoride treatment on the formation and progression of enamel erosive lesions. Ninety-six human enamel samples were obtained, stored in thymol solution and, after surface polishing, randomly divided into 6 different surface treatment groups (n = 16 in each group) as follows: no treatment, control (C); one CO2 laser irradiation (L1); two CO2 laser irradiations (L2); daily application of fluoride solution (F); combined daily fluoride solution + one CO2 laser irradiation (L1F), and combined daily fluoride solution + two CO2 laser irradiations (L2F). Laser irradiation was performed at 0.3 J/cm2 (5 µs/226 Hz/10.6 µm) on day 1 (L1) and day 6 (L2). The fluoride solution contained AmF/NaF (500 ppm F), and SnCl2 (800 ppm Sn) at pH 4.5. After surface treatment the samples were submitted to an erosive cycling over 10 days, including immersion in citric acid (2 min/0.05 M/pH = 2.3) 6 times daily and storage in remineralization solution (≥1 h) between erosive attacks. At the end of each cycling day, the enamel surface loss (micrometers) was measured using a 3D laser profilometer. Data were statistically analyzed by means of a 2-level mixed effects model and linear contrasts (α = 0.05). Group F (-3.3 ± 2.0 µm) showed significantly lower enamel surface loss than groups C (-27.22 ± 4.1 µm), L1 (-18.3 ± 4.4 µm) and L2 (-16.3 ± 5.3 µm) but higher than L1F (-1.0 ± 4.4 µm) and L2F (1.4 ± 3.2 µm, p < 0.05). Under the conditions of this in vitro study, the tin-containing fluoride solution caused 88% reduction of enamel surface loss, while its combination with CO2 laser irradiation at 0.3 J/cm2 hampered erosive loss almost completely.
The Utility of Hybrid SPECT/CT Lung Perfusion Scintigraphy in Pulmonary Embolism Diagnosis
Authors: Mazurek Andrzej , Dziuk Miroslaw , Witkowska-Patena Ewa , Piszczek Stanislaw , Gizewska Agnieszka
Published: September 2015

Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is diagnosed either by ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) scintigraphy or pulmonary CT angiography. One of the imaging methods used in nuclear medicine is hybrid SPECT/CT scintigraphy. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of SPECT/CT(Q) scintigraphy in the diagnosis of PE and to compare SPECT/CT(Q) with planar(Q) and SPECT(Q) methods. Methods: The study group consisted of 109 consecutive patients suspected of having PE referred for performing lung scintigraphy. The inclusion criteria were: performance of perfusion planar, SPECT and SPECT/CT scans; availability of clinical data covering a 6-month follow-up period, and D-dimer level testing. The number of eligible patients was 84. PE was reported in patients with at least 1 segmental or 2 subsegmental perfusion defects without parenchymal abnormalities on CT scans. PE was excluded when there was a normal perfusion pattern or perfusion defects were caused by lung parenchymal abnormalities or were not arranged in accordance with the pulmonary vasculature. Results: Twenty-six patients (31%) had a final diagnosis of PE. The sensitivity and specificity values of each method were as follows: planar(Q) 73 and 43%, SPECT(Q) 88 and 47% and SPECT/CT(Q) 100 and 83%. SPECT/CT(Q) yielded a significantly higher diagnostic accuracy than planar(Q) (p < 0.001) and SPECT(Q) (p < 0.001) scans. Conclusions: We conclude that hybrid SPECT/CT(Q) imaging has a high diagnostic efficacy in the diagnosis of PE. Lung perfusion scintigraphy performed with a hybrid SPECT/CT device has a significantly higher sensitivity and specificity than scanning performed with the planar or SPECT technique.
The Sound of a Buk (Korean Traditional Drum) Attenuates Anaphylactic Reactions by the Activation of Estrogen Receptor-β
Authors: Kim Hee-Yun , Ko Kyung-Ja , Nam Sun-Young , Jeong Hyun-Ja , Kim Hyung-Min
Published: September 2015

Background: Anaphylaxis is associated with systemic vasodilation that causes low blood pressure and induces hypoxic brain damage. The sound of a Buk (Korean traditional drum) is similar to the human heart beat and affects blood pressure, heart rate, and the nervous system by increasing physiological excitation and sympathetic nervous system activity. So, this study focused on the effect of Buk music as a means of treating anaphylaxis. Methods: Mice were given an intraperitoneal injection of compound 48/80 (6.5 mg/kg, a mast cell degranulator). After compound 48/80 injection, mice were exposed to Buk music and white noise for 5 min in a sound isolation booth. The mortality rate was checked over the next 40 min. Levels of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the serum and brain tissues were analyzed by Western blotting, quantitative real-time PCR, and ELISA methods. Results: Exposure to Buk music significantly reduced compound 48/80-induced mortality and histamine release, as well as HIF-1α and VEGF levels compared with the compound 48/80 group or compound 48/80 and white noise group. Buk music also reduced levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, and significantly increased estrogen receptor-β mRNA levels. Conclusion: These results indicate that Buk music has potential for the treatment of anaphylaxis.
Synthetic Double-Stranded RNA Poly(I:C) Aggravates IgA Nephropathy by Triggering IgA Class Switching Recombination through the TLR3-BAFF Axis
Authors: He Liyu , Peng Xiaofei , Wang Jiayi , Tang Chengyuan , Zhou Xun , Liu Hong , Liu Fuyou , Sun Lin , Peng Youming
Published: September 2015

Background: Immunoglobulin class-switch recombination (CSR) is crucial for the expression of IgA, and it plays a vital role in the physiopathology of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of polyriboinosinic:polyribocytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) in modulating toll-like receptor (TLR) 3-B-cell-activating factor belonging to the TNF family (BAFF) axis activation, which in turn promotes IgA CSR of IgAN patients and the IgAN rat model. Methods: Blood samples and tonsillar tissue specimens were obtained from 24 patients with IgAN and 26 patients with chronic tonsillitis as control. We also used the IgAN rat model to investigate the relationship between viral infection and IgA CSR. Results: Immunohistochemical and ELISA western blotting examination revealed that the TLR3/BAFF axis is activated in IgAN patients when compared to controls. Synthetic double-stranded RNA poly(I:C) stimulation upregulates the TACI/TLR3/TRIF/TRAF6 expression and promotes IgA CSR and BAFF productions in tonsil mononuclear cells. TLR3 or BAFF siRNA decreases IgA expression. In IgAN rat models, TLR3/BAFF signaling was highly activated. With 200 μg poly(I:C) sodium salt into the left naris for 8 weeks, IgA was highly deposited on glomeruli. It also revealed that poly(I:C) activated TLR3/BAFF axis and IgA CSR in vivo. Conclusion: These data points toward the role of TLR3/BAFF axis in IgA CSR of IgAN, and the data also support the notion that mucosal immunization with virus infection results in impaired mucosal and systemic IgA responses.
Media policy in the 21st century: from national interest to cultural stewardship
Authors: Curtin Michael
Published: September 2015

This essay provides a framework for understanding the twenty-first century dynamics of the global media economy. It has four central objectives: (1) explain the fundamental shift in media regulation engendered by neo-liberal globalization; (2) describe the operations of transnational commercial media enterprises and show how their practices and protocols have affected media institutions at the local, national, and regional levels; (3) identify issues that have risen to the forefront of media policy deliberations with respect to cultural expression and creative labor; and (4) elaborate an alternative policy perspective based on the principle of stewardship.
Fandom as an object and the objects of fandom
Authors: Hills Matt , Greco Clarice
Published: September 2015

Matt Hills is a Professor of Film & TV Studies at Aberystwyth University, in Wales, and before that he was a Reader at Cardiff University. He holds a Master’s from Goldsmiths, University of London, and a PhD from the University of Sussex. Self-proclaimed fan of the British series Doctor Who, Hills has been writing about fans and fandom since his early career, especially about Doctor Who, Torchwood, and Sherlock more recently, alongside pieces on media audiences, cult film and TV, quality television and digital culture. His book Fan Cultures (2002) is among the most well known contributions to fan studies. Matt Hills spoke about the theoretical and empirical challenges in defining and studying fans, the complexity of the term, and the types of engagement and behavior of fandom online and offline.
Structural mediation of technicity: audiences repositioning on Twitter
Authors: Pieniz Mônica
Published: September 2015

This paper presents elements of a PhD thesis that had the objective of understanding the process of audiences repositioning where receivers become emitters by sharing their perceptions about telenovela on Twitter. The research sought to discover the motivations and contents involved in this practice, from the theoretical approach of structural mediation of technicity. The methodological protocol included content analysis of tweets, on Nvivo10 software, questionnaires and interviews with twitterers receivers. The results show different contents and motivations, which evidence that, besides being a reception shared via web, this is a practice of individuals that seek to please their own possible audience.
Executable movies: on the existence and propriety of networked images
Authors: Menotti Gabriel
Published: September 2015

This paper explores the existence and propriety of moving images within computer networks. It means to show that computer-based images are executable, standing for running software systems as much as the applications that are used to play, edit, copy and transmit them. Thus, in computation, movie and apparatus become completely mingled together, developing a complex materiality. Analysing how computers enact and distribute moving images, I end up evoking the concept of code as a parameter that sets conditions for medial property. According to this parameter, different media might retain their specific identities even if they become equivalent surface effects of the same socio-technical system.
Editorial
Authors: Lopes Maria Immacolata Vassallo de , Romancini Richard , Reimão Sandra , Nassar Paulo
Published: September 2015

Editorial
The worst television is better than no television
Authors: Muanis Felipe De Castro
Published: September 2015

The discussion of a program quality by means of a communication process with its viewer makes generalizations impossible. The constant criticism to television refers, primarily, to its contents, but it is also form, broadcasting, medium and a communi-cation process through which the audience can interrelate in a hermeneutical style, taking Gadamer’s theory — which advocates that one interprets something from one’s own history and experience. If what is said on television is more important than what is shown, then its quality is less in its content and more in its capacity to create communication and generate discussion between its viewers and society, although the latter frequently addresses programs as being low quality.
MONITORAMENTO E COORDENAÇÃO EM REDES DE FRANQUIA: DISPERSÃO GEOGRÁFICA E AUTOMAÇÃO IMPACTANDO O MIX CONTRATUAL
Authors: Bitti Eugênio José Silva , Aquino André Carlos Busanelli , Amato Neto João
Published: September 2015

Este estudo analisa a interação entre fatores de influência sobre a proporção de lojas próprias e franqueadas – aqui chamado de mix contratual – em redes de franquias brasileiras. Tal análise é orientada por predições da Teoria da Agência, cuja abordagem preconiza que incentivos ao desempenho local desejado são obtidos alocando-se a propriedade da loja para agentes locais: os franqueados. Dois fatores são analisados em maior detalhe: (i) a dispersão geográfica das unidades eleva custos de monitoramento, o que demanda o emprego de mecanismos de incentivo ao desempenho local; e (ii) o nível de automação dos processos da loja potencializa a capacidade de monitoramento à distância, o que alivia a necessidade de investimento em incentivos (menos lojas franqueadas são esperadas). Os testes realizados com base em informações de 191 redes franqueadas do Brasil indicam que ambos os vetores agem no sentido esperado sobre a distribuição da propriedade das unidades (lojas próprias e franqueadas).
A PERCEPÇÃO DOS AUDITADOS EM RELAÇÃO ÀS COMPETÊNCIAS COMPORTAMENTAIS DOS AUDITORES INDEPENDENTES: UM ESTUDO EMPÍRICO NA REGIÃO DA GRANDE FLORIANÓPOLIS/SC
Authors: Camargo Rita de Cássia Correa Pepinelli , Camargo Raphael Vinicius Weigert , Dutra Marcelo Haendchen , Alberton Luiz
Published: September 2015

A presente pesquisa objetivou investigar a percepção dos auditados em relação às competências comportamentais dos auditores independentes. De natureza exploratória, o estudo foi realizado através da aplicação de questionário. Os resultados indicaram que a percepção dos auditados, para as vinte e uma competências investigadas variou entre média (mediana 3) e alta (mediana 4), com destaque para as competências “ambição” e “flexibilidade”, que obtiveram a mais alta e a mais baixa classificação, respectivamente. Além disso, foi observado que as competências “liderança”, “relacionamento interpessoal” e “lidar com pressão e situações tensas”, obtiveram alta classificação pelo grupo de respondentes cujo contato foi com o Auditor Sócio e, num outro extremo, baixa classificação, pelo grupo cujo contato foi com o Trainee/Assistente. Em geral, os resultados sugerem que, na percepção dos inquiridos, algumas competências podem obter alta ou baixa classificação, de acordo com a experiência dos auditores de contato.
ESCOLHA DE PRÁTICAS CONTÁBEIS: UM ESTUDO SOBRE PROPRIEDADES PARA INVESTIMENTO EM EMPRESAS BRASILEIRAS NÃO FINANCEIRAS DE CAPITAL ABERTO
Authors: Costa Thiago De Abreu , Silva Adolfo Henrique Coutinho e , Laurencel Luiz Da Costa
Published: September 2015

O objetivo do artigo foi analisar os incentivos econômicos para seleção do método (custo ou valor justo) de mensuração contábil das propriedades para investimento por parte das empresas brasileiras não financeiras de capital aberto. Foi realizada uma análise quantitativa através de estatística univariada (teste de diferença de média Mann-Whitney U e teste de proporções) e multivariada (regressão logística) para análise de 36 empresas com propriedades para investimento. Os resultados demonstram que apenas 14 empresas (39%) optaram pelo método de valor justo para mensuração de suas propriedades para investimento. A análise univariada e multivariada dos dados permitem concluir que apenas a variável receita líquida foi estatisticamente significante para explicar o método de mensuração das propriedades para investimento escolhido pelas empresas. Em geral, as empresas com menor receita líquida apresentam maior probabilidade de utilizar o método de valor justo. O estudo é relevante por permite conhecer os tipos de escolhas de práticas contábeis realizadas pelos administrados no período pós implementação do IFRS.
INOVAÇÃO DE PRÁTICAS DE CONTROLE GERENCIAL E FONTES DE INFORMAÇÃO
Authors: Oyadomari José Carlos Tiomatsu , Aguiar Andson Braga de , Chen Yen-Tsang , Dultra-de-Lima Ronaldo Gomes
Published: September 2015

Este estudo avaliou as associações entre a forma como os profissionais de controladoria obtém obtêm informações e os perfis de mudanças de práticas de controle gerencial, um assunto ainda pouco explorado (STONE et al., 2000). Com base em 80 respostas de profissionais das áreas de controladoria, contabilidade e finanças de empresas brasileiras, e com o uso da técnica de análise de clusters, identificaram-se quatro diferentes perfis de inovação de práticas de controle gerencial denominados “Não Inovadores”, “Inovadores Frequentes”, “Inovadores Incrementais” e “Inovadores Radicais”. Os principais resultados, demonstraram que: (1) a fonte interna de informação é a mais importante, (2) não há diferença na forma como se obtém a informação e os diferentes perfis de mudanças de práticas de controle gerencial, indicando que outros fatores podem explicar os diferentes perfis de mudanças de práticas de controle gerencial. A única exceção se refere ao agrupamento denominado “Não Inovadores”, em que as fontes de informação como jornais e revistas de negócios, artigos acadêmicos e associações de classe são diferentes em relação aos demais perfis, com médias maiores, o que pode indicar uma postura crítica em relação às inovações ou mesmo que estas essas organizações estão ainda buscando informações para um futuro movimento de mudanças.
O DESEMPENHO DOS PROFISSIONAIS DE CONTABILIDADE NO EXAME DE SUFICIÊNCIA DO CFC: UMA ANÁLISE DE CONGLOMERADOS REGIONAIS
Authors: Bugarim Maria Clara Cavalcante , Rodrigues Lúcia Lima , Pinho Joaquim Carlos da Costa , Machado Diego De Queiroz
Published: September 2015

Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar as características particulares de cada região do país, no que diz respeito aos resultados apresentados nos exames de suficiência do Conselho Federal de Contabilidade (CFC). Para tanto, foram considerados dados relativos ao desempenho dos candidatos em cada unidade federativa nas diferentes áreas de conhecimento que compõem o exame de suficiência. Os dados foram agrupados em dois momentos distintos: primeira fase do exame de suficiência, entre os anos de 2000 a 2004; e segunda fase do exame de suficiência, nos anos de 2011 e 2012. Esses dados foram analisados com aplicação do método estatístico multivariado de análise de conglomerados. A comparação dos resultados encontrados, principalmente em termos de composição dos grupos, mostra-se essencial para uma avaliação do desempenho desses profissionais no exame em cada uma das unidades federativas que compõem o Brasil. Além disso, os resultados deste estudo se constituem como um diagnóstico completo do desempenho no exame, apontando para áreas de maior fragilidade no ensino e que, para tanto, carecem ser mais bem exploradas na formação dos profissionais de Contabilidade.
Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Senescence Promotes Atherosclerosis and Features of Plaque Vulnerability
Authors: Wang Julie , Uryga Anna K. , Reinhold Johannes , Figg Nichola , Baker Lauren , Finigan Alison , Gray Kelly , Kumar Sheetal , Clarke Murray , Bennett Martin
Published: September 2015

Background—

Although vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation is implicated in atherogenesis, VSMCs in advanced plaques and cultured from plaques show evidence of VSMC senescence and DNA damage. In particular, plaque VSMCs show shortening of telomeres, which can directly induce senescence. Senescence can have multiple effects on plaque development and morphology; however, the consequences of VSMC senescence or the mechanisms underlying VSMC senescence in atherosclerosis are mostly unknown.

Methods and Results—

We examined the expression of proteins that protect telomeres in VSMCs derived from human plaques and normal vessels. Plaque VSMCs showed reduced expression and telomere binding of telomeric repeat-binding factor-2 (TRF2), associated with increased DNA damage. TRF2 expression was regulated by p53-dependent degradation of the TRF2 protein. To examine the functional consequences of loss of TRF2, we expressed TRF2 or a TRF2 functional mutant (T188A) as either gain- or loss-of-function studies in vitro and in apolipoprotein E
–/–
mice. TRF2 overexpression bypassed senescence, reduced DNA damage, and accelerated DNA repair, whereas TRF2
188A
showed opposite effects. Transgenic mice expressing VSMC-specific TRF2
T188A
showed increased atherosclerosis and necrotic core formation in vivo, whereas VSMC-specific TRF2 increased the relative fibrous cap and decreased necrotic core areas. TRF2 protected against atherosclerosis independent of secretion of senescence-associated cytokines.

Conclusions—

We conclude that plaque VSMC senescence in atherosclerosis is associated with loss of TRF2. VSMC senes cence promotes both atherosclerosis and features of plaque vulnerability, identifying prevention of senescence as a potential target for intervention.
Placental-Specific sFLT-1 e15a Protein Is Increased in Preeclampsia, Antagonizes Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Signaling, and Has Antiangiogenic Activity
Authors: Palmer Kirsten R. , Kaitu’u-Lino Tu’uhevaha J. , Hastie Roxanne , Hannan Natalie J. , Ye Louie , Binder Natalie , Cannon Ping , Tuohey Laura , Johns Terrance G. , Shub Alexis , Tong Stephen
Published: September 2015

In preeclampsia, the antiangiogenic factor soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT-1) is released from placenta into the maternal circulation, causing endothelial dysfunction and organ injury. A recently described splice variant, sFLT-1 e15a, is primate specific and the most abundant placentally derived sFLT-1. Therefore, it may be the major sFLT-1 isoform contributing to the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. sFLT-1 e15a protein remains poorly characterized: its bioactivity has not been comprehensively examined, and serum levels in normal and preeclamptic pregnancy have not been reported. We generated and validated an sFLT-1 e15a–specific ELISA to further characterize serum levels during pregnancy, and in the presence of preeclampsia. Furthermore, we performed assays to examine the bioactivity and antiangiogenic properties of sFLT-1 e15a protein. sFLT-1 e15a was expressed in the syncytiotrophoblast, and serum levels rose across pregnancy. Strikingly, serum levels were increased 10-fold in preterm preeclampsia compared with normotensive controls. We confirmed sFLT-1 e15a is bioactive and is able to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor signaling of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 and block downstream Akt phosphorylation. Furthermore, sFLT-1 e15a has antiangiogenic properties. sFLT-1 e15a decreased endothelial cell migration, invasion, and inhibited endothelial cell tube formation. Administering sFLT-1 e15a blocked vascular endothelial growth factor induced sprouts from mouse aortic rings ex vivo. We have demonstrated that sFLT-1 e15a is increased in preeclampsia, antagonizes vascular endothelial growth factor signaling, and has antiangiogenic activity. Future development of diagnostics and therapeutics for preeclampsia should consider targeting placentally derived sFLT-1 e15a.
Voices from Behind Prison Walls
Authors: Minton Carol A. , Perez Pamela R. , Miller Kevin
Published: September 2015

This study investigated the effects that training service dogs had on women in a multi-level security prison in California. Through semi-structured interviews, the inmates discussed the challenges and benefits of involvement in this program. The findings suggested that participation in training service dogs had positive effects on the women in the areas of emotional and or physical health, self-concept, goal-directed behaviors, empathy and self-control; and it resulted in an increase in positive interactions with other inmates and officers. The greatest challenge for the women was interacting with inmates and officers who were not supportive of the program.
Making Grandfather Come Out Better
Authors: Aytemiz Pelin
Published: September 2015

In contemporary Turkey, a growing number of lower to middle-income families bring old and often damaged photographs of their deceased family members to digital studios for restoration. Digital restoration artists, whether working online or from photography studios, retouch these photographs in often highly creative ways, such as adding color and fantasy backgrounds, or combining discrete portraits into fictional (diachronic) family portraits. Digital technologies such as the Photoshop program are here called upon to perform a very old desire: that of ensuring a dead person’s continued presence. Engaging with debates on the passage from analog to digital and the relationship of photography to death, I examine this process from two perspectives. First, I focus on digital artists who understand their work in professional terms as intensely material, and in social terms as one of ‘saving photographs from death’; second, I examine the renewed social potency that such digitally remastered photographs acquire in Turkish homes, where digital intervention not only ensures the continued potency of ancestral photographs in ensuring the presence of the deceased patriarch, but also enhances this presence in novel ways. Digitally remastered photographs are understood here as more than ‘just’ photo-realistic. They are ‘more perfect’ or even ‘more real’: their fictionality adds to their auratic character as icons of authority and makes them eminently suited for the renewed kind of social work that is demanded of them.
The genus Visiana Swinhoe (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Larentiinae) in Australia: resurrection of two species from synonymy
Authors: SCHMIDT OLGA
Published: September 2015

Based on the study of morphological characters and DNA barcode (CO1) data, the present review revealed the existence of at least three species of Visiana Swinhoe (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Larentiinae) in Australia. Visiana brujata (Guenée) is redescribed, and two species V. incertata (Walker), stat. rev. and V. repentinata (Walker), stat. rev. are resurrected from synonymy with V. brujata. Visiana breviaria (Walker), syn. rev., previously cited as a synonym of V. brujata, is now considered a synonym of V. incertata. Visiana brujata and V. incertata show close affinities with the sordidata group of species, whereas V. repentinata belongs to the vinosa species group. Images of adults and genitalia of all types are illustrated and the presence of the gnathos in the genus Visiana is discussed.
Redescription of the Indo-West Pacific scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae), Neomerinthe erostris (Alcock 1896), a senior synonym of Scorpaena gibbifrons Fowler 1938, N. rotunda Chen 1981, and N. bathyperimensis Zajonz & Klausewitz 2002
Authors: MOTOMURA HIROYUKI , CAUSSE ROMAIN , BÉAREZ PHILIPPE , MISHRA SUBHRENDU SEKHAR
Published: September 2015

The Indo-West Pacific species, Neomerinthe erostris (Alcock 1896), originally described as Scorpaena erostris, is redescribed as a senior synonym of Scorpaena gibbifrons Fowler 1938, N. rotunda Chen 1981, and N. bathyperimensis Zajonz & Klausewitz 2002. Although the latter three nominal species have been regarded as valid species and N. erostris has not been reported since 1898, examinations of type specimens of the four nominal species revealed that they represent a single species. A lectotype of Scorpaena erostris is herein designated. Neomerinthe erostris is characterized by having a distinct longitudinal ridge on the lateral surface of the maxilla and a strongly rounded dorsal profile of the head.
Review of the Oriental genus Platysodes Westwood (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae: Cremastocheilini) with a redescription of Platysodes madoni Bourgoin
Authors: QIU JIAN-YUE , XU HAO , CHEN LI
Published: September 2015

The genus Platysodes Westwood, 1873 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae: Cremastocheilini) is reviewed, with an identification key, images, and distributional map for all species. Platysodes madoni Bourgoin, 1923 is newly recorded from southern China, and a lectotype is designated for this species. The year of publication of Platysodes is corrected to 1873.
New species and records of Pseudacteon Coquillett, 1907 (Diptera, Phoridae), parasitoids of the fire ant Solenopsis geminata group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Authors: PEREIRA THALLES PLATINY LAVINSCKY , DELABIE JACQUES HUBERT CHARLES , BRAVO FREDDY
Published: September 2015

The genus Pseudacteon Coquillett (Diptera, Phoridae) has a worldwide distribution and comprises parasitic myrmecophilous species that decapitate host ants. Seventy one species are known in the genus, 41 of them occur in the Neotropical Region and are 25 from Brazil. In northeastern Brazil, there are only records for two species, Pseudacteon dentiger Borgmeier and Pseudacteon antiguensis Malloch. In this paper, two new species of the genus are described from female specimens, Pseudacteon pesqueroi new spec. and Pseudacteon plowesi new spec., and also, new records of three Pseudacteon species for the Brazilian Northeast are given.
On the Variability and Predictability of Eastern Pacific Tropical Cyclone Activity*
Authors: Caron Louis-Philippe , Boudreault Mathieu , Camargo Suzana J.
Published: September 2015

Variability in tropical cyclone activity in the eastern Pacific basin has been linked to a wide range of climate factors, yet the dominant factors driving this variability have yet to be identified. Using Poisson regressions and a track clustering method, the authors analyze and compare the climate influence on cyclone activity in this region. The authors show that local sea surface temperature and upper-ocean heat content as well as large-scale conditions in the northern Atlantic are the dominant influence in modulating eastern North Pacific tropical cyclone activity. The results also support previous findings suggesting that the influence of the Atlantic Ocean occurs through changes in dynamical conditions over the eastern Pacific. Using model selection algorithms, the authors then proceed to construct a statistical model of eastern Pacific tropical cyclone activity. The various model selection techniques used agree in selecting one predictor from the Atlantic (northern North Atlantic sea surface temperature) and one predictor from the Pacific (relative sea surface temperature) to represent the best possible model. Finally, we show that this simple model could have predicted the anomalously high level of activity observed in 2014.
EnKF and Hybrid Gain Ensemble Data Assimilation. Part II: EnKF and Hybrid Gain Results
Authors: Bonavita Massimo , Hamrud Mats , Isaksen Lars
Published: September 2015

The desire to do detailed comparisons between variational and more scalable ensemble-based data assimilation systems in a semioperational environment has led to the development of a state-of-the-art EnKF system at ECMWF, which has been described in Part I of this two-part study. In this part the performance of the EnKF system is evaluated compared to a 4DVar of similar resolution. It is found that there is not a major difference between the forecast skill of the two systems. However, similarly to the operational hybrid 4DVar–EDA, a hybrid EnKF–variational system [which we refer to as the hybrid gain ensemble data assimilation (HG-EnDA)] is capable of significantly outperforming both component systems. The HG-EnDA has been implemented with relatively little effort following Penny’s recent study. Results of numerical experimentation comparing the HG-EnDA with the hybrid 4DVar–EDA used operationally at ECMWF are presented, together with diagnostic results, which help characterize the behavior of the proposed ensemble data assimilation system. A discussion of these results in the context of hybrid data assimilation in global NWP is also provided.
A critical exploration of staff perceptions of Aboriginal boarding students’ experiences
Authors: Mander David J , Cohen Lynne , Pooley Julie A
Published: September 2015

This exploratory study investigated how staff at four private boys’ boarding schools in Perth, Western Australia, constructed meaning and understanding around the experience of studying away from home and family for Aboriginal students from regional and remote communities. Interviews were conducted with 16 participants recruited from the four schools. Three major themes with corresponding sub-themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) Aboriginal Disadvantage and the sub-themes of Social Responsibility and Opportunity, (2) Academic and Social factors and the sub-themes of Culture Shock, Homesickness, Friendships and Peer Support, Literacy and Numeracy, Prejudice, Stereotypes, and Racism and (3) Relationships and the sub-themes of Staff-Student Relationship, Staff-Parent Relationship, and School-Community Relationship. The implications of these findings are discussed and implications for policy and practice are considered.
World Social Work Day celebrations in Zimbabwe: An opportunity to promote social justice
Authors: Mugumbate Jacob
Published: September 2015

Social Work Day was instituted by social workers at the United Nations (UN) in 1983 and is celebrated in March each year to recognise social work’s achievements, share its vision for a just society and foster international solidarity. Subsequently embraced as World Social Work Day (WSWD) by the profession’s international organisations and their affiliates worldwide, Zimbabwe celebrated its first WSWD in 2012 at Bindura, a small rural university near Harare, to raise social work’s profile in Zimbabwe. This article describes these events.
The Rogerian Fully Functioning Person
Authors: Proctor Carmel , Tweed Roger , Morris Daniel
Published: September 2015

Two studies examined the characteristics of the Rogerian fully functioning person from the positive psychology perspective. Based on the findings of extant research in support of the Rogerian metatheoretical model, indicators were selected to represent characteristics constituting the fully functioning person. Using confirmatory factor analysis, a single factor structure of the fully functioning person was assessed with young adults aged 16 to 19 years ( x¯ = 16.86). Participants of both studies completed measures of life satisfaction, positive thoughts and feelings, authenticity, organismic valuing, aspirations, basic psychological needs, anxiety, and strengths use. Participants of Study 2 also completed a measure of character strengths endorsement. Analyses revealed that variables consistent with the Rogerian fully functioning person loaded positively on a single “fully functioning person” factor. Overall, results suggest that the fully functioning person is high in life satisfaction, has increased positive thoughts and feelings and decreased negative thoughts and feelings, low anxiety, and moves toward intrinsic values rather than extrinsic values. The fully functioning person component was positively correlated with the character strengths of enthusiasm, bravery, honesty, leadership, and spirituality and negatively correlated with modesty and fairness. Results supplement research indicating strong links between positive psychology and the person-centered theory of Carl Rogers.
The Mentally Ill and Crisis Intervention Teams
Authors: Kerle Ken
Published: September 2015

This essay provides an historical look at the mentally ill in jails. The author, a longtime jail expert, draws on his vast experiences and knowledge about the population. Exploring the developments that led to the climbing numbers of people with mental illness being confined in jails instead of treated in psychiatric hospitals and clinics, he focuses on the evolution of crisis intervention teams as a valuable tool for diverting the mentally ill from correctional to mental health settings.
Inspecting the Mechanism
Authors: Maurer Jürgen
Published: September 2015

Background. Influenza vaccination is strongly associated with socioeconomic status, but there is only limited evidence on the respective roles of socioeconomic differences in vaccination intentions versus corresponding differences in follow-through on initial vaccination plans for subsequent socioeconomic differences in vaccine uptake. Methods. Nonparametric mean smoothing, linear regression, and probit models were used to analyze longitudinal survey data on perceived influenza risks, behavioral vaccination intentions, and vaccination behavior of adults during the 2009–2010 influenza A/H1N1 (“swine flu”) pandemic in the United States. Perceived influenza risks and behavioral vaccination intentions were elicited prior to the availability of H1N1 vaccine using a probability scale question format. H1N1 vaccine uptake was assessed at the end of the pandemic. Results. Education, income, and health insurance coverage displayed positive associations with behavioral intentions to get vaccinated for pandemic influenza while employment was negatively associated with stated H1N1 vaccination intentions. Education and health insurance coverage also displayed significant positive associations with pandemic vaccine uptake. Moreover, behavioral vaccination intentions showed a strong and statistically significant positive partial association with later H1N1 vaccination. Incorporating vaccination intentions in a statistical model for H1N1 vaccine uptake further highlighted higher levels of follow-through on initial vaccination plans among persons with higher education levels and health insurance. Limitations. Sampling bias, misreporting in self-reported data, and limited generalizability to nonpandemic influenza are potential limitations of the analysis. Conclusions. Closing the socioeconomic gap in influenza vaccination requires multipronged strategies that not only increase vaccination intentions by improving knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs but also facilitate follow-through on initial vaccination plans by improving behavioral control and access to vaccination for individuals with low education, employed persons, and the uninsured.
Storing and sharing wisdom and traditional knowledge in the library
Authors: Shannon Brooke M. , Bossaller Jenny S.
Published: September 2015

Traditional library practice focuses on print collections and developing collections of materials that have been published, which means the documents have gone through some kind of review or vetting process. This practice leaves a wide swath of potential knowledge out of the collection. For example, indigenous knowledge, beliefs, and experience are different, in that they do not undergo the same review or vetting process; we might refer to these types of content as wisdom. Non-print collections, such as collections of recorded oral histories, represent less traditional forms of knowledge. Human libraries push the boundaries further in the quest to integrate wisdom and lived experience into library collections. This paper delineates the relationship between wisdom and knowledge that arose during a phenomenological study of the everyday information practices of Kenyan university women. The women were asked to photograph everyday events from their life and describe what they saw. One finding was a divergent presentation of wisdom and knowledge. Because the women were describing this in relation to their education, we assert that this demonstrates a need to reconsider positivist assumptions in library science, bringing what the women called wisdom into the stacks. How, though, can wisdom be stored and shared?
Whom Do They Serve? A National Examination of Veterans Treatment Court Participants and Their Challenges
Authors: Baldwin Julie Marie
Published: September 2015

The veterans treatment court (VTC) is a recently developed specialized court that targets the growing population of veterans in contact with the criminal justice system. Using data collected from the first national survey of VTCs in 2012, this study explores who VTC participants are by creating a descriptive portrait of their personal and military characteristics and the legal, extralegal, and programmatic challenges they face. This study also examines the perceived relationships between military service and legal and extralegal issues. This research produces the first early illustration of VTC participants on a national level, finding similarity and variability across VTCs, in comparison with the national veteran population, and between servicemen and servicewomen on a variety of factors. Furthermore, this study identifies recent changes in the VTC participant population. Recommendations for VTC programs and for research on justice-involved veterans and active-duty personnel are provided in light of the fluid VTC population.
Dynamic development of public attitudes towards science policymaking
Authors: Okamura Keisuke
Published: September 2015

Understanding the heterogeneity of mechanisms that form public attitudes towards science and technology policymaking is essential to the establishment of an effective public engagement platform. Using the 2011 public opinion survey data from Japan ( n = 6,136), I divided the general public into three categories: the Attentive public, who are willing to actively engage with science and technology policymaking dialogue; the Interested public, who have moderate interest in science and technology but rely on experts for policy decisions; and the Residual public, who have minimal interest in science and technology. On the basis of the results of multivariate regression analysis, I have identified several key predispositions towards science and technology and other socio-demographic characteristics that influence the shift of individuals from one category of the general public to another. The findings provide a foundation for understanding how to induce more accountable, evidence-based science and technology policymaking.