bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Iron Supplementation on Iron Nutrition Status and Cognitive Functions in Children
Authors: Buzina-Suboticanec Kornelia , Buzina Ratko , Stavljenic Ana , Tadinac-Babic Meri , Juhovic-Markus Vesna
Published: November 2015

This study examined the effect of iron supplementation on cognitive function by a double-blind intervention trial in nine-year-old mildly anaemic schoolchildren. Their nutritional status was assessed by anthropometric measurements and the following biochemical values: haemoglobin, haematocrit, red blood cell count (RBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin saturation. In addition, biochemical values of vitamin A, vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, and zinc were measured. The cognitive assessment was performed using an abbreviated Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) containing six subtests: arithmetic, similarities, digit span, picture completion, block design, and digit symbol (coding), in order to obtain information on both verbal and non-verbal aspects of intelligence. There were highly significant correlations of the WISC-R scores with initial height-for-age, haemoglobin, haematocrit, and transferrin saturation, and a correlation with MCHC. After completion of the baseline examination, one group of children was given a supplement containing 100 mg of iron for 10 weeks while the other group received a placebo. Iron supplementation had a positive effect on the biochemical measures of iron status, with haemoglobin, haematocrit, transferrin saturation, RBC, MCH, and MCHC all showing statistically significant increases ( p < .05). Iron supplementation also resulted in a statistically significant improvement in total WISC-R score ( p < .01). This effect was primarily the result of improved performance on nonverbal subtests, of which improvements in block design and coding were statistically significant ( p < .01). The small increase in the sum of scaled scores from the verbal subtest was not significant ( p > .05), but within the verbal subtest there was a significant improvement on the similarities part of the test ( p < .05). The effects of iron supplementation were more pronounced in children with initially lower haemoglobin values. It is concluded that iron supplementation in nine-year-old schoolchildren with haemoglobin levels between 110 and 119 g/L will result in an improvement of cognitive functions, even though they are not otherwise malnourished.
Virtual Elimination of Iodine-Deficiency Disorders Achieved in Nine Counties of Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Zhao Jinkou , Wang Hua , Ge Jun , Zhang Qinlan , Huan Xiping , Shang Li , Pan Renjie , van der Haar Frits
Published: November 2015

To assess the iodine-deficiency disorder status in nine counties of Jiangsu Province, China, where salt iodization was initiated in 1985, a special verification survey was conducted in 1997 by a provincial multisectoral team. Results obtained by regular monitoring of counties indicated that the goitre rate in schoolchildren had progressively decreased from 41.9% in 1983 to 3.9% in 1997, while the median urinary iodine concentrations of the population had remained above 100 μg/L since 1985. More than 90% of the edible salt supplied to households had been iodized at ≥ 20 mg I/kg during the previous five years. The data obtained by provincial verification confirmed the county findings of ≥ 90% adequate iodized salt in households, < 5% goitre rate in schoolchildren, and adequate urinary iodine excretions. The provincial team also considered the established mechanisms for salt iodization and supply and iodine information management potentially sustainable. The high variability of the iodine content of household salt indicates that improved quality assurance of iodized salt at production and continued monitoring of population iodine indicators are needed.
Improvement of Dietary Density by the Use of Germinated Cereals and Legumes
Authors: Singhavanich Chittima , Jittinandana Sitima , Kriengsinyos Wantanee , Dhanamitta Sakorn
Published: November 2015

The feasibility of using germinated seeds to reduce the high viscosity of cereal- and legume-based weaning foods developed by the Institute of Nutrition at Mahidol University was investigated. the amylase-rich food (ARF) products were developed from cereals (rice, glutinous rice, and maize) and legumes (mung bean, black bean, soya bean, red kidney bean, and groundnut). the activities of α- and β-amylase were determined. the results showed that the germination processes were standardized by a four-day germination period for cereous cereal- and legume-based weaning foods.
Psychological Autopsy as a Research Approach for Studying Gifted Adolescents Who Commit Suicide
Authors: Cook Robert S. , Cross Tracy L. , Gust Karyn L.
Published: November 2015

Suicide is currently the second leading cause of death among adolescents. Research into gifted adolescent suicide is extremely limited. Investigations in this area are hampered by the infrequent occurrence of gifted adolescnet suicide and other factors such as the stigma attached to suicide. The body of knowledge about gifted adolescent suicide can be increased by utilizing alternative research approaches such as the psychological autopsy, a retrospective approach to studying suicide. The psychological autopsy and its use in studying the suicides of three gifted adolescents are described in this article.
Gifted Girls and the Humanities
Authors: Kolloff Penny Britton
Published: November 2015

In recent years, attention has been drawn to differences between the school experiences of females and those of males. Although particular focus has been on conditions that contribute to attrition and underachievement of females in science and mathematics, similar conditions may exist in humanities classes. Specifically, students in English and history/social studies classes frequently encounter materials that are disproportionately by and about males and an overall classroom environment that is more supportive of males. All students need a curriculum that reflects the contributions of talented female authors, strong, active female characters, social activists, political and historical figures. Additionally, changes in the types of assignments, classroom organization, and teacher behaviors are necessary to address the needs of gifted girls in these courses by more adequately supporting their learning styles, preferences, and strengths. This article suggests appropriate modifications of humanities curricula to address these needs.
Assessing Readiness for Geometry in Mathematically Talented Middle School Students
Authors: Mason Marguerite M. , Moore Sara Delano
Published: November 2015

Mathematically talented middle grade students are traditionally served by beginning Algebra I (and the traditional pre-calculus sequence) in seventh, or even sixth, grade. They thus enroll in geometry early, with little attention paid to the fact that readiness for and success in algebra requires different skills and types of understanding than readiness for and success in geometry. Research about geometric understanding in regular and gifted students, as well as research predicting success in high school geometry classes, suggests that the decision to place mathematically talented students in geometry classes at a younger than typical age should be made on the basis of more information than the successful completion of Algebra I. This paper describes a procedure for assessing geometry readiness in mathematically able middle school students.
Assessment
Authors: Carter Claudia R.
Published: November 2015

Test Analysis, a new alternative assessment method, successfully shifts the responsibility for learning and grading to the student. The method provides enough immediate feedback to satisfy basic student needs yet withholds the final gratification of a grade assignment until the student completes a thorough analysis of his or her performance on the test. The results have effect beyond the immediate student test grade. Students develop the ability to edit future tests, seem to demonstrate increased retention of knowledge as evidenced by performance on semester and final exams, and develop better attitudes about test taking and learning.
Optical Instrumentation for an Interdisciplinary Student Research Course
Authors: Lyublinskaya Irina
Published: November 2015

A one year course with main emphasis on the development of students' research skills has been offered at the Arkansas School for Mathematics and Science. The content core of the course is optics and the use of optical instrumentation for research in science, mathematics, and art. The course presents a combination of rigorous content, interdisciplinary curriculum, and hands-on experiences. The course offers unique opportunities for students to engage in meaningful, non-traditional learning in real-life research settings.
ETIPS Leadership Cases: An Innovative Tool for Developing Administrative Decision Making
Authors: Tucker Pamela D. , Dexter Sara
Published: November 2015

One of the most persistent critiques of educational leadership preparation programs has been the need to more explicitly address the application of theory to practice. Case studies have been used to serve this purpose, but there is little empirical research on their contributions to learning in preparation programs. This paper introduces features of the Educational Theory Into Practice Software (ETIPS) online leadership cases, summarizes reactions of students and instructors to them, and presents results from a two-year study that found that ETIPS cases develop students' decision making skills, and more generalized self-efficacy, confidence and certainty about the decision making process.
The place of antifungal treatment in interstitial cystitis
Authors: Murshidi Mujalli S
Published: November 2015

Background and objectives:

Initial study to treat interstitial cystitis with anti-fungal treatment.

Methods and results:

This is an initial report about anti-fungal treatment in three patients with interstitial cystitis. All patients had been diagnosed and receiving treatment for at least two years. Various modalities had led only to minimal improvement. Anti-fungal therapy in the form of fluconazole was commenced in these patients. There was significant response in two cases; the third one had a moderate response.

Conclusion:

Anti-fungal treatment may play a role in the treatment of interstitial cystitis; further elaborate studies are needed. Research is also needed to study the role of fungal infection in the pathogenesis of interstitial cystitis.
Pilawite-(Y), Ca2(Y,Yb)2[Al4(SiO4)4O2(OH)2], a new mineral from the Piława Górna granitic pegmatite, southwestern Poland: mineralogical data, crystal structure and association
Authors: Pieczka Adam , Hawthorne Frank C. , Cooper Mark A. , Szełęg Eligiusz , Szuszkiewicz Adam , Turniak Krzysztof , Nejbert Krzysztof , Ilnicki Sławomir
Published: November 2015

Pilawite-(Y), ideally Ca2(Y,Yb)2Al4(SiO4)4O2(OH)2, was discovered in a pegmatite near Piława Górna, Lower Silesia, Poland. The mineral occurs as white, translucent, brittle crystals up to 1.5 mm in size. It has a white streak, vitreous lustre and a hardness of 5 on Mohs scale. The calculated density is 4.007 g/cm3. Pilawite-(Y) is non-pleochroic, biaxial (+), with refractive indices α = 1.743(5), β = 1.754(5) and γ = 1.779(5), birefringence Δ = 0.03–0.04, 2Vmeas. = 65(2)° and 2Vcalc. = 68°. Pilawite-(Y) is monoclinic P21/c, with unit-cell parameters a = 8.558(3) Å, b = 7.260(3) Å, c = 11.182(6) Å, β = 90.61(4)o, V = 694.7(4) Å3. The crystal structure was refined to an R1 index of 2.76% and consists of chains of edge- and corner-sharing octahedra decorated by tetrahedra and having the stoichiometry [Al2(SiO4)4O(OH)] that link by sharing corners to form an octahedron–tetrahedron framework with large interstices that contain Ca2+ and (Y,Ln)3+. It is a graphical isomer of the Al–P framework in palermoite, Sr2Li4[Al2(PO4)2(OH)2]2. The pilawite-(Y)-bearing assemblage began crystallization at high Y + Ln activities and was modified progressively by a Ca-enriched fluid, resulting in the sequence: keiviite-(Y) → gadolinite-(Y) to hingganite-(Y) + hellandite-(Y) → pilawite-(Y) → allanite-(Y) → epidote/zoisite.
T-cell receptor–HLA-DRB1 associations suggest specific antigens in pulmonary sarcoidosis
Authors: Grunewald Johan , Kaiser Ylva , Ostadkarampour Mahyar , Rivera Natalia V. , Vezzi Francesco , Lötstedt Britta , Olsen Remi-André , Sylwan Lina , Lundin Sverker , Käller Max , Sandalova Tatiana , Ahlgren Kerstin M. , Wahlström Jan , Achour Adnane , Ronninger Marcus , Eklund Anders
Published: November 2015

In pulmonary sarcoidosis, CD4+T-cells expressing T-cell receptor Vα2.3 accumulate in the lungs of HLA-DRB1*03+patients. To investigate T-cell receptor-HLA-DRB1*03 interactions underlying recognition of hitherto unknown antigens, we performed detailed analyses of T-cell receptor expression on bronchoalveolar lavage fluid CD4+T-cells from sarcoidosis patients.

Pulmonary sarcoidosis patients (n=43) underwent bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage. T-cell receptor α and β chains of CD4+T-cells were analysed by flow cytometry, DNA-sequenced, and three-dimensional molecular models of T-cell receptor-HLA-DRB1*03 complexes generated.

Simultaneous expression of Vα2.3 with the Vβ22 chain was identified in the lungs of all HLA-DRB1*03+patients. Accumulated Vα2.3/Vβ22-expressing T-cells were highly clonal, with identical or near-identical Vα2.3 chain sequences and inter-patient similarities in Vβ22 chain amino acid distribution. Molecular modelling revealed specific T-cell receptor-HLA-DRB1*03-peptide interactions, with a previously identified, sarcoidosis-associated vimentin peptide, (Vim)429–443DSLPLVDTHSKRTLL, matching both the HLA peptide-binding cleft and distinct T-cell receptor features perfectly.

We demonstrate, for the first time, the accumulation of large clonal populations of specific Vα2.3/Vβ22 T-cell receptor-expressing CD4+T-cells in the lungs of HLA-DRB1*03+sarcoidosis patients. Several distinct contact points between Vα2.3/Vβ22 receptors and HLA-DRB1*03 molecules suggest presentation of prototypic vimentin-derived peptides.
A randomised trial of glucocorticoids in acute-stage allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis complicating asthma
Authors: Agarwal Ritesh , Aggarwal Ashutosh N. , Dhooria Sahajal , Singh Sehgal Inderpaul , Garg Mandeep , Saikia Biman , Behera Digambar , Chakrabarti Arunaloke
Published: November 2015

Whether use of high-dose steroids in acute-stage allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is associated with superior outcomes is not known. Herein, we compare the efficacy and safety of two glucocorticoid protocols in ABPA.

Treatment-naive ABPA subjects randomly received either high-dose or medium-dose oral prednisolone. The primary outcomes were exacerbation rates and glucocorticoid-dependent ABPA after 1 and 2 years, respectively, of treatment. The secondary end-points were composite response rates after 6 weeks, improvement in lung function, time to first exacerbation, cumulative dose and adverse effects.

92 subjects (high-dose n=44, medium-dose n=48) were included in the study. The numbers of subjects with exacerbation after 1 year (high-dose 40.9%versusmedium-dose 50%, p=0.59) and glucocorticoid-dependent ABPA after 2 years (high-dose 11.4%versusmedium-dose 14.6%, p=0.88) were similar in the two groups. Although composite response rates were significantly higher in the high-dose group, improvement in lung function and time to first exacerbation were similar in the two groups. Cumulative glucocorticoid dose and side-effects were significantly higher in the high-dose group.

Medium-dose oral glucocorticoids are as effective and safer than high-dose in treatment of ABPA.
A new technique for convergence theorem of fixed point problem of quasi-nonexpansive mapping
Authors: Cheawchan Kanyarat , Suantai Suthep , Kangtunyakarn Atid
Published: November 2015

For the purpose of this paper, we use the method different from the relaxed extragradient method for finding a common element of the set of fixed points of a quasi-nonexpansive mapping, the set of solutions of equilibrium problems, and the set of solutions of a modified system of variational inequalities without demiclosed condition of W and $W_{\omega}:= (1-\omega )I+\omega W$

W
ω

:
=
(
1
−
ω
)
I
+
ω
W
, where W is a quasi-nonexpansive mapping and $\omega\in (0,\frac{1}{2} )$
ω
∈
(
0
,

1
2

)
in the framework of Hilbert space. By using our main result, we obtain a strong convergence theorem involving a finite family of nonspreading mappings and another corollary. Moreover, we give a numerical example to encourage our main theorem.
New fixed point theorems on order intervals and their applications
Authors: Feng Wenying , Zhang Guang
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we prove the existence of fixed points for nonlinear and semilinear operators on order intervals. The abstract results unified some methods in studying the existence of positive solutions for boundary and initial value problems of nonlinear difference and differential equations. Applications are shown by examples.
Exposure to Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) and Hypothyroidism in Canadian Women
Authors: Oulhote Youssef , Chevrier Jonathan , Bouchard Maryse F.
Published: November 2015

Context:

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants in a wide range of products, resulting in widespread human exposure. Epidemiological studies in some populations reported exposure to PBDEs and thyroid hormone levels but little epidemiological data are available among women from the general population.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to examine the association of PBDEs with hypothyroidism.

Design and Setting:

This was a cross-sectional analysis of the 2007–2009 Canadian Health Measures Survey.

Participants:

A total of 745 women representative of Canadian women aged 30–79 years participated in the study.

Main Outcome and Methods:

We estimated the prevalence ratios (PRs) for hypothyroidism in relation to plasma concentrations of BDE-47, -99, -100, and -153 and their sum (ΣPBDEs). Women were identified as cases if they reported a doctor-diagnosed thyroid condition and underwent thyroid hormone replacement therapy (n = 90).

Results:

Higher plasma levels of brominated diphenyl ether (BDE)-47 and -100 and ΣPBDEs were associated with an increased prevalence of hypothyroidism. The PR for a 10-fold increase in ΣPBDEs was 1.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0, 3.0). Associations were consistently higher among women aged 30–50 years than among those 51–79 years for ΣPBDEs and the other PBDE congeners, although the interaction was significant only for BDE-100. For instance, in the younger age group, women with detectable levels of BDE-100 had a PR of 3.8 (95% CI 1.2, 12.3) compared with women with undetectable levels; the corresponding PR in the older age group was 1.2 (95% CI 0.6, 2.3). No association was observed for BDE-99 and -153.

Conclusion:

Plasma PBDE levels were associated with an increased prevalence of hypothyroidism in Canadian women aged 30–50 years. Although the cross-sectional design of the study limits inferences of causality, these findings have important implications, given the key role of thyroid hormones in several biological mechanisms during reproductive age.
The primary cilium is a self-adaptable, integrating nexus for mechanical stimuli and cellular signaling
Authors: Nguyen An M. , Young Y.-N. , Jacobs Christopher R.
Published: November 2015

Mechanosensation is crucial for cells to sense and respond to mechanical signals within their local environment. While adaptation allows a sensor to be conditioned by stimuli within the environment and enables its operation in a wide range of stimuli intensities, the mechanisms behind adaptation remain controversial in even the most extensively studied mechanosensor, bacterial mechanosensitive channels. Primary cilia are ubiquitous sensory organelles. They have emerged as mechanosensors across diverse tissues, including kidney, liver and the embryonic node, and deflect with mechanical stimuli. Here, we show that both mechanical and chemical stimuli can alter cilium stiffness. We found that exposure to flow stiffens the cilium, which deflects less in response to subsequent exposures to flow. We also found that through a process involving acetylation, the cell can biochemically regulate cilium stiffness. Finally, we show that this altered stiffness directly affects the responsiveness of the cell to mechanical signals. These results demonstrate a potential mechanism through which the cell can regulate its mechanosensing apparatus.
Z S Makowski: A Pioneer of Space Structures
Authors: Parke Gerard A. R. , Behnejad S. Alireza
Published: November 2015

The objective of this paper is to present information about the life, personality and the contributions of Professor Zygmunt Stanislaw Makowski (1922–2005) as a pioneer in the field of Spatial Structures. He was the Head of the Department of Civil Engineering of the University of Surrey, in the United Kingdom, for 22 years (from 1962 to 1984). Professor Makowski also created the Space Structures Research Centre of the University of Surrey in May 1963, and the work of this Centre, over the years, has won a great deal of international recognition.
The Beauty of Technical Thought in Architecture — the Lifework of Stéphane Du Chateau
Authors: Tarczewski Romuald , Motro René
Published: November 2015

The work of Stéphane Du Chateau is clearly inscribed in the second half of the twentieth-century. Throughout his life, the famous engineer and architect developed and patented several spatial structure systems based on an ingenious design of nodes and skillfully applied them in the architectural form of various buildings. As of today, over 250 of his designs were successfully realized. Apart from the above, Stéphane du Chateau also established several associations in order to bring architects together and to promote Spatial Structures. His charisma and commitment brought a remarkable contribution to spatial structures.
Form-Finding of Interlaced Space Structures Using Constrained Nonlinear Optimization
Authors: Nabaei Sina , Baverel Olivier , Weinand Yves
Published: November 2015

The term Interlaced Space Structures (ISS) corresponds to a coupled system of naturally curved flexible panels/strips interlaced together according to a design pattern. The goal of the present study is to look for a physically-based and efficient form-finding procedure in order to interactively explore different interlaced morphologies with respect to the design parameters for structural design purposes. Each panel is considered as an in-extensible discrete kirchhoff rod and the rest shape of the coupled system rods is obtained via a constrained total energy minimization. The interlacing pattern is translated into a set of overlap order constraints and applied to the optimization problem. An implementation of the interior-point filter linesearch algorithm with the Quasi-Newton procedure has been employed to solve the constrained nonlinear optimization. The approach is then discussed and commented in detail through a number of form-finding case studies.
Jet Noise Simulations for Complex Nozzle Geometries
Authors: Ramamurti Ravi , Corrigan Andrew , Liu Junhui , Kailasanath Kazhikathra , Henderson Brenda
Published: November 2015

The jet flow from a complex engine nozzle system with multiple jet streams is computed using large eddy simulations. The effects of the fan flow, the impact of installation effects created by the addition of a pylon, and the influence of the core-fluidic injection on the resulting flow field and the acoustic radiation are studied. The potential core length reduces slightly with the introduction of the fan flow and further reduces with the introduction of the fluidic injection nozzle geometry. Computations of fluidic-injection nozzle configurations are validated with experimental data. The agreement in the farfield spectra along the sideline and in the peak propagation directions is good for both the baseline nozzle and the fluidic-injection nozzle configurations. The centerline velocity and the turbulent kinetic energy distribution along the nozzle symmetry plane are in good agreement with the experiments. The parametric study varying the pressure ratio shows that as the injection pressure ratio is increased the jet core moves towards the pylon. For a fluidic injection pressure ratio of 4.0, a reduction of 2.0dB - 2.5dB is observed with respect to the baseline nozzle with a pylon. Fluidic injection is found to produce two sets of counter rotating vortices, one along the nozzle lip line and the second penetrating the nozzle core flow. The potential reason for the noise reduction is investigated from the changes in the turbulence intensity and the convective velocity in the shear layer. It is shown that the turbulence intensity is reduced and the convective velocity at the end of the potential core remains nearly constant for all injection pressure ratios studied.
The Use of the Active Methods of Education and Personal Experience for the Mastering of Special Competencies for High School Teacher
Authors: ��������  , Machekhina Olga
Published: November 2015

In the article the organization of occupations on the basis of use of the active methods of training, focused on the greatest possible actualization of individual professional experience of the trained teachers is considered as a resource of eff ective increase of professionalism of high school teachers. Professionalism of the high school teachers is seen in a prism of realization of universal and special professional competencies, possession with which is necessary for successful professional activity. Universal competences are typical for all teachers, who are carrying out professional activity at any step of education at high comprehensive school. Special competencies are defi ning specifi cs of professional activity of the teachers working at 9-11 classes of high school, who are carrying out the training, education and developing of the high school pupils. Productive subject - subject relations in the course of realization of each directions of professional activity of high school teachers are possible on the basis of use of the active methods of training approved during their own professional development.
The Dream Museum of Education, or the �Golden Standard� of Open Education
Authors: ���������  , Svetlanov S. , ��������  , Fedorova Yuliya
Published: November 2015

The article describes a modern Museum of Education, as it should be. Dynamic museum space potential and characteristics are presented in view of the

current stage in informatics advancement in the society. Exhibition arrangement methods and approaches are discussed.
Characterization of Hot Deformation Behavior of a New Near-β Titanium Alloy: Ti555211
Authors: An Zhen , Li Jinshan , Feng Yong , Liu Xianghong , Du Yuxuan
Published: November 2015

The deformation behavior of an isothermally compressed Ti555211 titanium alloy was examined by an Arrhenius-type constitutive model using experimental data obtained from hot compression tests; these tests were performed at temperatures and strain rates of 750–950°C and 0.001–1 s−1, respectively. Activation energies of hot deformation were calculated in 0.05 intervals for strains ranging from 0.1 to 0.7. The respective values of were obtained for the (α+β) and β region. In addition, the predictive capability of the model was described by the average absolute relative error (AARE) and the correlation coefficient (R). The simulated values were compared with the experimental values, and R and AARE of 0.99084 and 6.914%, respectively, were obtained for the Arrhenius-type constitutive model. These values were indicative of the good predictive capabilities of the developed strain-compensated constitutive equation. Moreover, in this work isothermal compression tests, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to systematically investigate the high-temperature deformation behavior of Ti555211 alloy under different processing conditions. EBSD and TEM were used to reveal the substructure and grain orientation of samples of the hot-deformed Ti555211 alloy. The phenomenon of discontinuous yielding was also discussed.
On the Cauchy problem for semilinear elliptic equations
Authors: Tuan Nguyen Huy , Binh Tran Thanh , Viet Tran Quoc , Lesnic Daniel
Published: November 2015

We study the Cauchy problem for nonlinear (semilinear) elliptic
partial differential equations in Hilbert spaces. The problem is severely ill-posed in the sense of Hadamard.
Under a weak a priori
assumption on the exact solution, we propose a new regularization method for
stabilising the ill-posed problem. These new results extend some earlier works on Cauchy problems for nonlinear elliptic equations.
Numerical results are presented and discussed.
Strategies to Reduce Heart Failure Hospitalizations and Readmissions: How Low Can We Go?
Authors: Aranda Juan M.
Published: November 2015

It is estimated that more than one million heart failure hospitalizations occur each year. Systolic heart failure and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction contribute equally to heart failure hospitalizations. Heart failure readmission rates continue to be about 25%. Strategies to reduce heart failure readmission are key to reducing hospitalization rates. The strategies to reduce heart failure hospitalization are as follows: (1) During hospitalization, diuresis to the euvolemic state is essential. Fifty percent of discharged heart failure patients have minimal weight loss during the hospitalization, representing minimal diuresis, but still fluid overload. (2) During hospitalization, interrogate the defibrillator or biventricular pacemaker (if applicable) to ensure that there is no right ventricular pacing and there is appropriate biventricular pacing. Interrogation of devices can identify arrhythmia or suboptimal biventricular pacing, which can contribute to decompensation. (3) Before discharge, identify the reason for decompensation, such as atrial fibrillation, infection, pulmonary embolism, or noncompliance. (4) Before discharge a multidisciplinary team is needed to educate the patient on diet, medications, fluid weight surveillance, and exercise. (5) A postdischarge visit should occur within 10 days and with emphasis on uptitration of neurohormonal blockers and continued congestion management. Such interventions conducted by a multidisciplinary team have the potential to reduce heart failure hospitalization rates.
Progressive Hearing Loss in Mice Carrying a Mutation inUsp53
Authors: Kazmierczak Marcin , Harris Suzan L. , Kazmierczak Piotr , Shah Prahar , Starovoytov Valentin , Ohlemiller Kevin K. , Schwander Martin
Published: November 2015

Disordered protein ubiquitination has been linked to neurodegenerative disease, yet its role in inner ear homeostasis and hearing loss is essentially unknown. Here we show that progressive hearing loss in the ethylnitrosourea-generatedmambomouse line is caused by a mutation inUsp53, a member of the deubiquitinating enzyme family. USP53 contains a catalytically inactive ubiquitin-specific protease domain and is expressed in cochlear hair cells and a subset of supporting cells. Although hair cell differentiation is unaffected inmambomice, outer hair cells degenerate rapidly after the first postnatal week. USP53 colocalizes and interacts with the tight junction scaffolding proteins TJP1 and TJP2 in polarized epithelial cells, suggesting that USP53 is part of the tight junction complex. The barrier properties of tight junctions of the stria vascularis appeared intact in a biotin tracer assay, but the endocochlear potential is reduced in adultmambomice. Hair cell degeneration inmambomice precedes endocochlear potential decline and is rescued in cochlear organotypic cultures in low potassium milieu, indicating that hair cell loss is triggered by extracellular factors. Remarkably, heterozygousmambomice show increased susceptibility to noise injury at high frequencies. We conclude that USP53 is a novel tight junction-associated protein that is essential for the survival of auditory hair cells and normal hearing in mice, possibly by modulating the barrier properties and mechanical stability of tight junctions.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTHereditary hearing loss is extremely prevalent in the human population, but many genes linked to hearing loss remain to be discovered. Forward genetics screens in mice have facilitated the identification of genes involved in sensory perception and provided valuable animal models for hearing loss in humans. This involves introducing random mutations in mice, screening the mice for hearing defects, and mapping the causative mutation. Here, we have identified a mutation in theUsp53gene that causes progressive hearing loss in themambomouse line. We demonstrate that USP53 is a catalytically inactive deubiquitinating enzyme and a novel component of tight junctions that is necessary for sensory hair cell survival and inner ear homeostasis.
Active Dendrites and Differential Distribution of Calcium Channels Enable Functional Compartmentalization of Golgi Cells
Authors: Rudolph Stephanie , Hull Court , Regehr Wade G.
Published: November 2015

Interneurons are essential to controlling excitability, timing, and synaptic integration in neuronal networks. Golgi cells (GoCs) serve these roles at the input layer of the cerebellar cortex by releasing GABA to inhibit granule cells (grcs). GoCs are excited by mossy fibers (MFs) and grcs and provide feedforward and feedback inhibition to grcs. Here we investigate two important aspects of GoC physiology: the properties of GoC dendrites and the role of calcium signaling in regulating GoC spontaneous activity. Although GoC dendrites are extensive, previous studies concluded they are devoid of voltage-gated ion channels. Hence, the current view holds that somatic voltage signals decay passively within GoC dendrites, and grc synapses onto distal dendrites are not amplified and are therefore ineffective at firing GoCs because of strong passive attenuation. Using whole-cell recording and calcium imaging in rat slices, we find that dendritic voltage-gated sodium channels allow somatic action potentials to activate voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) along the entire dendritic length, with R-type and T-type VGCCs preferentially located distally. We show that R- and T-type VGCCs located in the dendrites can boost distal synaptic inputs and promote burst firing. Active dendrites are thus critical to the regulation of GoC activity, and consequently, to the processing of input to the cerebellar cortex. In contrast, we find that N-type channels are preferentially located near the soma, and control the frequency and pattern of spontaneous firing through their close association with calcium-activated potassium (KCa) channels. Thus, VGCC types are differentially distributed and serve specialized functions within GoCs.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTInterneurons are essential to neural processing because they modulate excitability, timing, and synaptic integration within circuits. At the input layer of the cerebellar cortex, a single type of interneuron, the Golgi cell (GoC), carries these functions. The extent of inhibition depends on both spontaneous activity of GoCs and the excitatory synaptic input they receive. In this study, we find that different types of calcium channels are differentially distributed, with dendritic calcium channels being activated by somatic activity, boosting synaptic inputs and enabling bursting, and somatic calcium cannels promoting regular firing. We therefore challenge the current view that GoC dendrites are passive and identify the mechanisms that contribute to GoCs regulating the flow of sensory information in the cerebellar cortex.
Electrical and Optical Activation of Mesoscale Neural Circuits with Implications for Coding
Authors: Millard Daniel C. , Whitmire Clarissa J. , Gollnick Clare A. , Rozell Christopher J. , Stanley Garrett B.
Published: November 2015

Artificial activation of neural circuitry through electrical microstimulation and optogenetic techniques is important for both scientific discovery of circuit function and for engineered approaches to alleviate various disorders of the nervous system. However, evidence suggests that neural activity generated by artificial stimuli differs dramatically from normal circuit function, in terms of both the local neuronal population activity at the site of activation and the propagation to downstream brain structures. The precise nature of these differences and the implications for information processing remain unknown. Here, we used voltage-sensitive dye imaging of primary somatosensory cortex in the anesthetized rat in response to deflections of the facial vibrissae and electrical or optogenetic stimulation of thalamic neurons that project directly to the somatosensory cortex. Although the different inputs produced responses that were similar in terms of the average cortical activation, the variability of the cortical response was strikingly different for artificial versus sensory inputs. Furthermore, electrical microstimulation resulted in highly unnatural spatial activation of cortex, whereas optical input resulted in spatial cortical activation that was similar to that induced by sensory inputs. A thalamocortical network model suggested that observed differences could be explained by differences in the way in which artificial and natural inputs modulate the magnitude and synchrony of population activity. Finally, the variability structure in the response for each case strongly influenced the optimal inputs for driving the pathway from the perspective of an ideal observer of cortical activation when considered in the context of information transmission.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTArtificial activation of neural circuitry through electrical microstimulation and optogenetic techniques is important for both scientific discovery and clinical translation. However, neural activity generated by these artificial means differs dramatically from normal circuit function, both locally and in the propagation to downstream brain structures. The precise nature of these differences and the implications for information processing remain unknown. The significance of this work is in quantifying the differences, elucidating likely mechanisms underlying the differences, and determining the implications for information processing.
ARMC5 mutations in a large French-Canadian family with cortisol-secreting β-adrenergic/vasopressin responsive bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Bourdeau Isabelle , Oble Sylvie , Magne Fabien , Lévesque Isabelle , Cáceres-Gorriti Katia Y , Nolet Serge , Awadalla Philip , Tremblay Johanne , Hamet Pavel , Fragoso Maria Candida Barisson Villares , Lacroix André
Published: November 2015

Background

Bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (BMAH) is a rare cause of Cushing's syndrome (CS) and its familial clustering has been described previously. Recent studies identified thatARMC5mutations occur frequently in BMAH, but the relation betweenARMC5mutation and the expression of aberrant G-protein-coupled receptor has not been examined in detail yet.

Methods

We studied a large French-Canadian family with BMAH and sub-clinical or overt CS. Screening was performed using the 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST) in 28 family members. Screening for aberrant regulation of cortisol by various hormone receptors were examinedin vivoin nine individuals. Sequencing of the coding regions ofARMC5gene was carried out.

Results

Morning ambulating cortisol post 1 mg DST were >50 nmol/l in 5/8 members in generation II (57–68 years old), 9/22 in generation III (26–46 years old). Adrenal size was enlarged at different degrees. All affected patients increased cortisol following upright posture, insulin-induced hypoglycemia and/or isoproterenol infusion. β-blockers led to the reduction of cortisol secretion in all patients with the exception of two who had adrenalectomies because of β-blockers intolerance. We identified a heterozygous germline variant in theARMC5gene c.327_328insC, (p.Ala110Argfs*9) in nine individuals with clinical or subclinical CS, in four out of six individuals with abnormal suppression to dexamethasone at initial investigation and one out of six individuals with current normal clinical screening tests.

Conclusions

Systematic screening of members of the same family with hereditary BMAH allows the diagnosis of unsuspected subclinical CS associated with early BMAH. The relation between the causativeARMC5mutation and the reproducible pattern of aberrant β-adrenergic and V1-vasopressin receptors identified in this family remains to be elucidated.
Projective/Spontaneous: 4 Pomes from the EZ-Chair
Authors: Bonaparte Ian Alexander
Published: November 2015

Written under Buddhic trance on derelict typewriter, these pomes offer fruit. Origin process includes: Olson's theories of projective verse, Kerouac's "first thought best thought," Ginsberg's mad poetry, other ghosts' murmurs. Scribed in mode of joyousness. The Beats were not vegetables. Enjoy with wine.
Physiological and biochemical changes during the loss of desiccation tolerance in germinating Adenanthera pavonina L. seeds
Authors: SOARES GIULIANA C.M. , DIAS DENISE C.F.S. , FARIA JOSÉ M.R. , BORGES EDUARDO E.L.
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT We investigated the loss of desiccation tolerance (DT) in Adenanthera pavonina seeds during germination. Seeds were subjected to imbibition for 0, 24, 36, 48, 60 and 81 h, then dried to their initial moisture content (13%), rehydrated and evaluated for survival (resumption of growth and development of normal seedlings) and membrane system integrity (electrolyte leakage). Embryonic axes of seeds subjected only to imbibition during the same early time periods were used to investigate the electrophoretic patterns of heat-stable proteins and the relative nuclear DNA content. In A. pavonina seeds, DT remained unchanged until 36 h of imbibition (resulting in germination and 82% normal seedlings), after which it was progressively lost, and seeds with a protruded radicle length of 1 mm did not withstand dehydration. The loss of desiccation tolerance could not be related to either membrane damage caused by drying or the resumption of the cell cycle during germination. However, the decrease in heat-stable protein contents observed throughout germination may be related to the loss of DT in A. pavonina seeds.
Plant-hummingbird interactions and temporal nectar availability in arestinga from Brazil
Authors: FONSECA LORENA C.N. , VIZENTIN-BUGONI JEFERSON , RECH ANDRÉ R. , ALVES MARIA ALICE S.
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT Hummingbirds are the most important and specialized group of pollinating birds in the Neotropics and their interactions with plants are key components to many communities. In the present study we identified the assemblage of plants visited by hummingbirds and investigated the temporal availability of floral resources in an area of restinga, sandy plain coastal vegetation associated with the Atlantic forest, in Southeastern Brazil. We recorded flower and nectar features, flowering phenology and interactions between plants and hummingbirds and estimated the amount of calories produced per hectare from June 2005 to August 2006. Ten plant species were visited by two hummingbirds,Amazilia fimbriata and Eupetomena macroura. Resource availability was highly variable among plant species and over time. Nectar volume and concentration per flower were similar to other Neotropical hummingbird-visited plant assemblages. The estimated nectar resource availability between months varied from 0.85 to 5.97 Kcal per hectare/day, demanding an area between one and 6.8 ha to support a single hummingbird. Our study reports an unusual tropical setting where almost all interactions between hummingbirds and plants were performed by a single hummingbird species,A. fimbriata. Hence, the variable nectar availability is probably influencing hummingbird movements, its foraging area, and consequently plant pollination.
Cuidados paliativos no câncer e os princípios doutrinários do SUS
Authors: Mendes Ernani Costa , Vasconcellos Luiz Carlos Fadel de
Published: November 2015

Os cuidados paliativos são destinados às pessoas com doenças crônicas evolutivas que ameaçam suas vidas. Têm como característica preservar a qualidade da vida, do diagnóstico ao estágio final, e guardam coerência com a doutrina do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS): universalidade, integralidade, equidade. Este artigo, focado no câncer, faz uma reflexão sobre a cobertura da população, sua organização na atenção básica, média e alta complexidades e formação de profissionais, a partir de revisão bibliográfica e dos instrumentos normativos. Conclui-se que a estruturação da rede de cuidados paliativos carece de eficácia para o seu desenvolvimento, enquanto política pública coerente com a doutrina do SUS.
Evaluation of a bovine pregnancy-associated glycoprotein enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit for serological diagnosis of pregnancy in sheep
Authors: Rovani Monique Tomazele , Cezar Alfredo Skrebsky , Rigo Melânia Lazzari , Gasperin Bernardo Garziera , Nóbrega Júnior Janduí Escarião da , Torres Fabrício Dias , Gonçalves Paulo Bayard Dias , Ferreira Rogério
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT: Pregnancy diagnosis is an important tool for farm management. Ultrasonography is the main technique used for pregnancy diagnosis in ewes. As an alternative, radioimmunoassay (RIA) allows accurate and early detection of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) in sheep blood. However, radioactive-based techniques, as RIA, have been increasingly inadvisable due to environmental risk. Homology between ovine and bovine PAGs is high, and ELISA kits used for PAGs detection in cattle are safer than RIA. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of PAGs detection for pregnancy diagnosis in sheep serum samples using an ELISA kit produced for cattle. The sensitivity and specificity of the ELISA kit were 93.5% and 98.9%, respectively, whereas positive and negative predictive values were 99.0% and 93.1%, respectively, in comparison to ultrasonography diagnostic (control). PAGs reached consistently detectable concentrations in ovine serum around 33 days after mating. Accuracy of the ELISA test was 96.1% from 33 days of pregnancy until lambing. After parturition, PAGs were still detectable seven days post-lambing. However, from 21 days post-parturition, PAGs from the previous pregnancy were no longer detected in serum samples. In conclusion, the bovine ELISA kit can accurately detect pregnancy in sheep 33 days following mating, while PAGs levels from the previous gestation are no longer detected from 21 days post-partum. The evaluated ELISA test is a reliable tool for pregnancy diagnosis in sheep at random stages and as a complementary exam at early gestation.