bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vivo Disruption of an Rb–E2F–Ezh2 Signaling Loop Causes Bladder Cancer
Authors: Santos Mirentxu , Martínez-Fernández Mónica , Dueñas Marta , García-Escudero Ramón , Alfaya Begoña , Villacampa Felipe , Saiz-Ladera Cristina , Costa Clotilde , Oteo Marta , Duarte José , Martínez Victor , Gómez-Rodriguez Ma José , Martín Ma Luisa , Fernández Manoli , Viatour Patrick , Morcillo Miguel A. , Sage Julien , Castellano Daniel , Rodriguez-Peralto Jose L. , de la Rosa Federico , Paramio Jesús M
Published: September 2014

Bladder cancer is a highly prevalent human disease in which retinoblastoma (Rb) pathway inactivation and epigenetic alterations are common events. However, the connection between these two processes is still poorly understood. Here, we show that the in vivo inactivation of all Rb family genes in the mouse urothelium is sufficient to initiate bladder cancer development. The characterization of the mouse tumors revealed multiple molecular features of human bladder cancer, including the activation of E2F transcription factor and subsequent Ezh2 expression and the activation of several signaling pathways previously identified as highly relevant in urothelial tumors. These mice represent a genetically defined model for human high-grade superficial bladder cancer. Whole transcriptional characterizations of mouse and human bladder tumors revealed a significant overlap and confirmed the predominant role for Ezh2 in the downregulation of gene expression programs. Importantly, the increased tumor recurrence and progression in human patients with superficial bladder cancer is associated with increased E2F and Ezh2 expression and Ezh2-mediated gene expression repression. Collectively, our studies provide a genetically defined model for human high-grade superficial bladder cancer and demonstrate the existence of an Rb–E2F–Ezh2 axis in bladder whose disruption can promote tumor development. Cancer Res; 74(22); 6565–77. ©2014 AACR.
Vitamin D Suppresses Leptin Stimulation of Cancer Growth through microRNA
Authors: Kasiappan Ravi , Sun Yuefeng , Lungchukiet Panida , Quarni Waise , Zhang Xiaohong , Bai Wenlong
Published: September 2014

Obesity is a pandemic and major risk factor for cancers. The reduction of obesity would have been an effective strategy for cancer prevention, but the reality is that worldwide obesity has kept increasing for decades, remaining a major avoidable cancer risk secondary only to smoke. The present studies suggest that vitamin D may be an effective agent to reduce obesity-associated cancer risks in women. Molecular analyses showed that leptin increased human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA expression and cell growth through estrogen receptor-α (ERα) activation in ovarian cancer cells, which was suppressed by 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3]. The suppression was compromised when miR-498 induction by the hormone was depleted with microRNA (miRNA) sponges. In mice, high-fat diet (HFD) stimulation of ovarian tumor growth was remarkably suppressed by 1,25(OH)2D3 analogue EB1089, which was also compromised by miR-498 sponges. EB1089 did not alter HFD-induced increase in serum leptin levels but increased miR-498 and decreased the diet-induced hTERT expression in tumors. Quantitative RT-PCR analyses revealed an inverse correlation between hTERT mRNA and miR-498 in response to 1,25(OH)2D3 in estrogen-sensitive ovarian, endometrial, and breast cancers. The studies suggest that miR-498-mediated hTERT downregulation is a key event mediating the anti-leptin activity of 1,25(OH)2D3 in estrogen-sensitive tumors in women. Cancer Res; 74(21); 6194–204. ©2014 AACR.
A687V EZH2 Is a Driver of Histone H3 Lysine 27 (H3K27) Hypertrimethylation
Authors: Ott Heidi M. , Graves Alan P. , Pappalardi Melissa B. , Huddleston Michael , Halsey Wendy S. , Hughes Ashley M. , Groy Arthur , Dul Edward , Jiang Yong , Bai Yuchen , Annan Roland , Verma Sharad K. , Knight Steven D. , Kruger Ryan G. , Dhanak Dashyant , Schwartz Benjamin , Tummino Peter J. , Creasy Caretha L. , McCabe Michael T.
Published: September 2014

The EZH2 methyltransferase silences gene expression through methylation of histone H3 on lysine 27 (H3K27). Recently, EZH2 mutations have been reported at Y641, A677, and A687 in non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Although the Y641F/N/S/H/C and A677G mutations exhibit clearly increased activity with substrates dimethylated at lysine 27 (H3K27me2), the A687V mutant has been shown to prefer a monomethylated lysine 27 (H3K27me1) with little gain of activity toward H3K27me2. Herein, we demonstrate that despite this unique substrate preference, A687V EZH2 still drives increased H3K27me3 when transiently expressed in cells. However, unlike the previously described mutants that dramatically deplete global H3K27me2 levels, A687V EZH2 retains normal levels of H3K27me2. Sequencing of B-cell–derived cancer cell lines identified an acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line harboring this mutation. Similar to exogenous expression of A687V EZH2, this cell line exhibited elevated H3K27me3 while possessing H3K27me2 levels higher than Y641- or A677-mutant lines. Treatment of A687V EZH2-mutant cells with GSK126, a selective EZH2 inhibitor, was associated with a global decrease in H3K27me3, robust gene activation, caspase activation, and decreased proliferation. Structural modeling of the A687V EZH2 active site suggests that the increased catalytic activity with H3K27me1 may be due to a weakened interaction with an active site water molecule that must be displaced for dimethylation to occur. These findings suggest that A687V EZH2 likely increases global H3K27me3 indirectly through increased catalytic activity with H3K27me1 and cells harboring this mutation are highly dependent on EZH2 activity for their survival. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(12); 3062–73. ©2014 AACR.
Impact of Storage Solution Formulation during Refrigerated Storage upon Chondrocyte Viability and Cartilage Matrix
Authors: Wright Gregory J. , Brockbank Kelvin G.M. , Rahn Eliza , Halwani Dina O. , Chen Zhen , Yao Hai
Published: September 2014

Various preservation solutions have been evaluated for longer hypothermic cartilage storage for tissue transplantation; however, the results are mixed. This research was carried out to determine whether phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or organ preservation solutions would preserve both the extracellular matrix and chondrocytes of articular cartilage better than culture medium during refrigerated storage in the time frame that cartilage is stored for clinical use. Porcine cartilage plugs were stored, without the underlying bone, in culture medium with and without fetal bovine serum (FBS), PBS, Belzer's and Unisol solutions for 1 month at 4°C. Metabolic activity was tested using a resazurin reduction method, and matrix permeability was evaluated by measuring electrical conductivity. Storage in culture medium with 10% FBS was shown to provide good cartilage metabolic function for 7 days, decreasing to about 36% after 1 month of storage. There was no significant difference between samples stored in culture medium with and without FBS after 1 month of storage (p = 0.5005). Refrigerated storage of cartilage in PBS and two different solutions (Belzer's and Unisol) designed for optimal refrigerated tissue and organ storage results in loss of chondrocyte function and retention of matrix permeability. In contrast, the opposite, namely significantly better retention of chondrocyte function and loss of matrix permeability, was observed with culture medium. Future research should be focused on combining retention of chondrocyte function and matrix permeability by storage solution formulation.
Two Cases of Fatal Encephalopathy Related to Ifosfamide: An Adverse Role of Aprepitant
Authors: Séjourné Alice , Noal Sabine , Boone Mathieu , Bihan Céline , Sassier Marion , Andrejak Michel , Chauffert Bruno
Published: September 2014

Ifosfamide is used in the treatment of sarcomas and other tumors. It sometimes provokes encephalopathy, which is a serious complication even if it is usually reversible within 48-72 h after drug cessation. Ifosfamide is required to be activated by hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP), especially the 3A4 subtype, leading to 4-hydroxy-ifosfamide. Ifosfamide is also converted by CYP3A4 to inactive but neurotoxic metabolites. Aprepitant is a neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist that is a potent antiemetic used in combination with 5-HT3 antagonists and corticosteroids. Aprepitant has an inhibitory effect, as well as a possible inductive effect, on CYP3A4. Since ifosfamide and aprepitant are both substrates of CYP3A4, a pharmacokinetic interaction could result in secondary effects such as the potentialization of neurological side effects. In this report, we describe 2 cases of fatal encephalopathy in patients who have received both ifosfamide and aprepitant, and we discuss the mechanisms that could be involved. Our observations draw attention to the fact that aprepitant must be avoided, or at least used with caution, in patients who are receiving ifosfamide due to the risk of severe neurological side effects.
The Structural Paradigm of the Ten Plagues Narrative and the Hardening of Pharaoh’s Heart
Authors: Grossman Jonathan
Published: September 2014

The Ten Plagues narrative is classically considered a heavily redacted unit. The most widely accepted structural division in research is the model of three units of three plagues, which concludes with the death of the firstborn (3-3-3-1). This theory, well justified as it is from a structural and textual perspective, is not without its problems. One notable issue is its failure to explain the anomalous description of the seventh and eighth plagues, hail and locusts. This study proposes a new division of the plagues into a unit of seven plagues followed by a unit of three. This division, which, I will show, is supported by the redactive design, has special theological significance. Through this model, I will illustrate how (at least) two different structural paradigms can coexist within a single narrative, illuminating different facets of the multilayered text. In this paradigm, the plagues narrative emerges as two educational processes: the first seven plagues, ending with the plague of hail, are designed to educate Pharaoh and the Egyptians, while the unit of three is also geared towards the education of the Israelites.
New olenelloid trilobites from the Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: GAPP I. WESLEY , LIEBERMAN BRUCE S.
Published: September 2014

The Olenelloidea are a superfamily of early Cambrian trilobites, which have been the subject of several phylogenetic analyses and also used to address macroevolutionary questions regarding the nature and timing of the Cambrian radiation. The Sekwi Formation of the Mackenzie Mountains, Northwest Territories, Canada, has yielded numerous species from this clade, and here we present new information that expands on the diversity known from this biogeographically and biostratigraphically important region. In particular, we describe seven new species, (Olenellus baileyi, Mesonacis wileyi, Elliptocephala jaredi, Holmiella taurus, H. domackae, Mummaspis delgadoae, and Bristolia colberti). Also recovered are specimens of Elliptocephala logani, specimens that shared affinities with Olenellus clarki, O. getzi, O. fowleri, and Frizolenellus hanseni, and one partial specimen, which appears to be a new species of Bolbolenellus.
New Patagonian species of Liolaemus (Iguania: Liolaemidae) and novelty in the lepidosis of the southernmost lizard of the world: Liolaemus magellanicus
Authors: ABDALA CRISTIAN SIMÓN , PROCOPIO DIEGO ESTEBAN , STELLATELLI OSCAR ANÍBAL , TRAVAINI ALEJANDRO , MONACHESI MARIO RICARDO RUIZ
Published: September 2014

We describe a new species within the genus Liolaemus from southeast Argentine Patagonia. This new taxon, Liolaemus yatel sp. nov., presents anatomical traits shared with the Liolaemus lineomaculatus section within the Liolaemus lineomaculatus group, especially the absence of precloacal pores in both sexes. However, Liolaemus yatel sp. nov. does not exhibit trifid dorsal scales, which is a diagnostic character of the L. lineomaculatus group. Moreover, this new species differs from other taxa of the L. lineomaculatus group in that dorsal and nuchal scales either completely lack keels or are slightly keeled. We also report, for the first time, the presence of trifid scales in Liolaemus magellanicus, another species included in the L. lineomaculatus section but constituting an independent lineage regarding the L. lineomaculatus group. The phenotypic traits of L. yatel sp. nov. and the presence of trifid scales in L. magellanicus provide additional information for the study of evolutionary relationships among the species of the L. lineomaculatus section, especially the establishment of their diagnostic character states.
Two new species of Apobaetis Day, 1955 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) from Brazil
Authors: CRUZ PAULO VILELA , DE-SOUZA MARCIA REGINA
Published: September 2014

Apobaetis Day, 1955 species are known for their small size and preference for sandy stream substrate. Species which possess such habitat preference commonly possess long and slender legs and claws, but, in Apobaetis, the length of the tarsal claw rarely is so long that it exceeds the length of tarsus, occurring only in two species: A. lakota McCafferty, 2000 from USA and A. hamadae Cruz, Boldrini & Salles, 2011 from Brazil. In the present study, two new species with tarsal claws that exceed the length of the tarsi are described: Apobaetis pucupi sp. nov. from southeast Brazil and Apobaetis kethepiali sp. nov. from northernmost Brazil. Additionally, a new key for nymphs of Apobaetis is proposed.
A Study on the Scale Dependence of the Predictability of Precipitation Patterns
Authors: Surcel Madalina , Zawadzki Isztar , Yau M. K.
Published: September 2014

A methodology is proposed to investigate the scale dependence of the predictability of precipitation patterns at the mesoscale. By applying it to two or more precipitation fields, either modeled or observed, a decorrelation scale can be defined such that all scales smaller than are fully decorrelated. For precipitation forecasts from a radar data–assimilating storm-scale ensemble forecasting (SSEF) system, is found to increase with lead time, reaching 300 km after 30 h. That is, for , the ensemble members are fully decorrelated. Hence, there is no predictability of the model state for these scales. For , the ensemble members are correlated, indicating some predictability by the ensemble. When applied to characterize the ability to predict precipitation as compared to radar observations by numerical weather prediction (NWP) as well as by Lagrangian persistence and Eulerian persistence, increases with lead time for most forecasting methods, while it is constant (300 km) for non–radar data–assimilating NWP.

Comparing the different forecasting models, it is found that they are similar in the 0–6-h range and that none of them exhibit any predictive ability at meso-γ and meso-β scales after the first 2 h. On the other hand, the radar data–assimilating ensemble exhibits predictability of the model state at these scales, thus causing a systematic difference between corresponding to the ensemble and corresponding to model and radar. This suggests that either the ensemble does not have sufficient spread at these scales or that the forecasts suffer from biases.
Evaluation of Long-Term SSM/I-Based Precipitation Records over Land
Authors: Alemohammad Seyed Hamed , Entekhabi Dara , McLaughlin Dennis B.
Published: September 2014

The record of global precipitation mapping using Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I) measurements now extends over two decades. Similar measurements, albeit with different retrieval algorithms, are to be used in the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission as part of a constellation to map global precipitation with a more frequent data refresh rate. Remotely sensed precipitation retrievals are prone to both magnitude (precipitation intensity) and phase (position) errors. In this study, the ground-based radar precipitation product from the Next Generation Weather Radar stage-IV (NEXRAD-IV) product is used to evaluate a new metric of error in the long-term SSM/I-based precipitation records. The new metric quantifies the proximity of two multidimensional datasets. Evaluation of the metric across the years shows marked seasonality and precipitation intensity dependence. Drifts and changes in the instrument suite are also evident. Additionally, the precipitation retrieval errors conditional on an estimate of background surface soil moisture are estimated. The dynamic soil moisture can produce temporal variability in surface emissivity, which is a source of error in retrievals. Proper filtering has been applied in the analysis to differentiate between the detection error and the retrieval error. The identification of the different types of errors and their dependence on season, intensity, instrument, and surface conditions provide guidance to the development of improved retrieval algorithms for use in GPM constellation-based precipitation data products.
Changes in Winter Atmospheric Rivers along the North American West Coast in CMIP5 Climate Models
Authors: Warner Michael D. , Mass Clifford F. , Salathé Eric P.
Published: September 2014

Most extreme precipitation events that occur along the North American west coast are associated with winter atmospheric river (AR) events. Global climate models have sufficient resolution to simulate synoptic features associated with AR events, such as high values of vertically integrated water vapor transport (IVT) approaching the coast. From phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5), 10 simulations are used to identify changes in ARs impacting the west coast of North America between historical (1970–99) and end-of-century (2070–99) runs, using representative concentration pathway (RCP) 8.5. The most extreme ARs are identified in both time periods by the 99th percentile of IVT days along a north–south transect offshore of the coast. Integrated water vapor (IWV) and IVT are predicted to increase, while lower-tropospheric winds change little. Winter mean precipitation along the west coast increases by 11%–18% [from 4% to 6% (°C)−1], while precipitation on extreme IVT days increases by 15%–39% [from 5% to 19% (°C)−1]. The frequency of IVT days above the historical 99th percentile threshold increases as much as 290% by the end of this century.
Force-induced Adrb2 in Periodontal Ligament Cells Promotes Tooth Movement
Authors: Cao H. , Kou X. , Yang R. , Liu D. , Wang X. , Song Y. , Feng L. , He D. , Gan Y. , Zhou Y.
Published: September 2014

The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) regulates bone resorption through β-2 adrenergic receptor (Adrb2). In orthodontic tooth movement (OTM), mechanical force induces and regulates alveolar bone remodeling. Compressive force-associated osteoclast differentiation and alveolar bone resorption are the rate-limiting steps of tooth movement. However, whether mechanical force can activate Adrb2 and thus contribute to OTM remains unknown. In this study, orthodontic nickel-titanium springs were applied to the upper first molars of rats and Adrb1/2-/- mice to confirm the role of SNS and Adrb2 in OTM. The results showed that blockage of SNS activity in the jawbones of rats by means of superior cervical ganglion ectomy reduced OTM distance from 860 to 540 μm after 14 d of force application. In addition, the injection of nonselective Adrb2 agonist isoproterenol activated the downstream signaling of SNS to accelerate OTM from 300 to 540 μm after 7 d of force application. Adrb1/2-/- mice showed significantly reduced OTM distance (19.5 μm) compared with the wild-type mice (107.6 μm) after 7 d of force application. Histopathologic analysis showed that the number of Adrb2-positive cells increased in the compressive region of periodontal ligament after orthodontic force was applied on rats. Mechanistically, mechanical compressive force upregulated Adrb2 expression in primary-cultured human periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) through the elevation of intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Activation of Adrb2 in PDLCs increased the RANKL/OPG ratio and promoted the peripheral blood mononuclear cell differentiation to osteoclasts in the cocultured system. Upregulation of Adrb2 in PDLCs promoted osteoclastogenesis, which accelerated OTM through Adrb2-enhanced bone resorption. In summary, this study suggests that mechanical force-induced Adrb2 activation in PDLCs contributes to SNS-regulated OTM.
Testing the Situational Explanation of Victimization among Adolescents
Authors: Averdijk Margit , Bernasco Wim
Published: September 2014

Objectives:

This study aimed to test situational theories of victimization by answering three research questions, namely to what extent victims are actually victimized while being exposed to risky situations, whether the relation between victimization and situational elements is causal, and which elements of a situation are risky. We distinguished the type of activity, the company that individuals keep, the place of the activity, and the time of the activity.

Methods:

Data were collected among adolescents in The Hague, the Netherlands, using space–time budgets. These provided detailed information on situational elements for each hour across a period of four days. Multivariate fixed effects logit analyses were used to ensure that the results were not due to stable differences between individuals.

Results:

A total of 55 individuals reported 63 incidents of victimization. Results confirmed most hypotheses. Especially, the relation between delinquency and victimization was extraordinarily strong. Alcohol consumption, presence of peers, absence of authority figures, and being in a public place also increased the risk of victimization.

Conclusions:

Confirming major victimization theories, victimization was shown to occur during and because of exposure to risky situations. The hypothesized elements of risky situations were shown to have independent effects on victimization.
Interaction and Uptake in Large Foreign Language Classrooms
Authors: Ekembe Eric Enongene
Published: September 2014

Inteaction determines and affects the conditions of language acquisition especially in contexts where exposure to the target language is limited. This is believed to be successful only within the context of small classes (Chavez, 2009). This paper examines learners’ progress resulting from interaction in large classes. Using pre-, post-, and delayed post-test, results from two groups of participants (n=78 and 83) involved in the study do not show any significant difference at post- and delayed post-test. The study, therefore, rejects the argument that class size constrains interaction and instead argues that the durability of knowledge gained from interaction appears to have a stronger correlation with type of interaction, learners’ previous learning styles, proficiency, and the wider context of learning. The paper also argues that teacher-led interaction is not only possible with low proficiency, but could lead to outcomes which actually define the purpose for which language is learnt.
Cycle-by-cycle estimation of cylinder pressure and indicated torque waveform using crankshaft speed fluctuations
Authors: Ali Syed Abbas , Saraswati Samir
Published: September 2014

In this work, frequency response functions (FRFs) are used for estimation of cycle-by-cycle cylinder pressure and indicated torque waveform, using crankshaft speed fluctuations. The FRFs are mapped as a function of the discrete Fourier transform of engine speed, mean speed and manifold pressure using a multilayer neural network. The accuracy of the model is analysed using some of the parameters derived from the cylinder pressure. These include the indicated mean effective pressure and peak pressure. The load torque on the engine is also estimated using a closed-loop observer. The model is tested on a test rig consisting of single-cylinder engine coupled with an eddy current dynamometer. The results show that the model is suitable for the estimation of cylinder pressure and other variables related to it at the operating points where the cyclic variations are within a driveability limit.
Disparities in Health and Disability Among Older Adults in Same-Sex Cohabiting Relationships
Authors: Gonzales Gilbert , Henning-Smith Carrie
Published: September 2014

Objective: The present study compared indicators of impaired health and disability between older adults in same-sex cohabiting relationships and their peers in opposite-sex cohabiting relationships. Method: Data were obtained on men ( n = 698) and women ( n = 630) aged 50 years and older and in self-reported same-sex relationships from the National Health Interview Survey. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to estimate differences in physical health, mental health, and disability status. Results: Compared with their peers in married opposite-sex relationships, older men in same-sex relationships exhibited greater odds of psychological distress, and older women in same-sex relationships experienced elevated odds of poor/fair health, needing help with activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living, functional limitations, and psychological distress. Discussion: This study adds to the limited information on health and disability among older lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults. As this population grows, gerontologists must develop a better understanding of the unique issues and challenges facing them and their families.
Synthesis and characterization
Authors: He Yi , Chen Chunlin , Zhong Fei , Chen Hangyu
Published: September 2014

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were acidified with nitration mixture; the silicon oxide-coated MWCNTs (SiO2-MWCNTs) hybrid material was then prepared via the sol–gel method, and the results were verified using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). We modified the hybrid material with silane coupling agent (KH560) and prepared SiO2-MWCNTs/epoxy, MWCNTs/epoxy composite coating, and the pure epoxy coating, respectively. The impedance performance was tested using electrochemical workstation (electron ionization spray); then, the mechanical properties and thermal stability were tested through the shock experiments and TGA. Finally, we used SEM to observe the coating surface condition. The results show that SiO2-MWCNTs have a good dispersion in the epoxy resin and the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of SiO2-MWCNTs/epoxy composite coating have enhanced.
Structural analysis of a stented pericardial heart valve with leaflets mounted externally
Authors: Avanzini Andrea , Battini Davide
Published: September 2014

Our aim was to understand the structural and functional behaviour of a pericardial heart valve with biological leaflets attached externally to a stent. To our knowledge, there is little if any literature concerning these kinds of bioprosthetic heart valves, while there is more concerning bioprosthetic heart valves with leaflets mounted internally. We studied the problem using a finite element approach considering leaflets and stent interaction, the influence of leaflet anisotropy and stent stiffness, by comparing quasi-static and dynamic loadings. Although we considered the problem to be symmetric and fluid–structure interaction was not implemented, we believe that our results could be a solid basis for valve optimization. We found regions of high stress concentration at the commissure near the stent tip and at the base of the leaflet cusp. The structural behaviour in the first region was complex, while the stress in the second region acted radially because of high bending. Although leaflet tissue anisotropy and stent stiffness exerted a significant influence on the structural and functional behaviours, they had a contrasting effect on leaflet stress state, coaptation and valve opening. Therefore, a good optimization should take into account both structural and functional requirements when tuning tissue properties and stent stiffness.
An Analysis of the Structure and the Determinants of Intra-industry Trade in Agri-food Products: Case of India and Selected FTAs
Authors: Varma Poornima , Ramakrishnan Anjali
Published: September 2014

The growing evidence of intra-industry trade (IIT) in integrated markets has provided sufficient justification for trade in countries with similar endowments. While several studies have been undertaken looking at manufacturing and industrial goods, this article analyzes the structure and determinants of trade in agri-food products between India and members from its selected Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)—the South Asian Preferential Trade Agreement (SAFTA) and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It is focused on agri-food products as the IIT literature in general is more focused on manufacturing products. The analysis found that India’s trade with partner countries is predominantly in the form of IIT. Nonetheless the relative IIT was found higher for countries such as Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal among SAFTA members and for Singapore among selected ASEAN members. The econometric analysis using to bit model showed that the free trade agreement had a positive impact on IIT. The empirical analysis further revealed that similarities in demand and agricultural-related factor endowments have a positive impact on IIT. Nonetheless macro variables from the supply side—GDP and per capita GDP—showed that the higher the dissimilarities the higher the IIT. The negative impact of increased average size on IIT is justifiable on account of the fact that the exploitation of scale advantages is lower for agri-food products as compared to other manufacturing products.
Fast damage detection of cable-stayed bridges using an improved edge-detection method
Authors: Yan Guirong , Chen Peng , Hu Guangda , Zhao Ming , Yi Jiarui
Published: September 2014

The edge-detection method based on polynomial annihilation that was recently proposed has been applied to locate small damage in structures and demonstrated its effectiveness on beam-like structures. However, significant computational effort involved in this method lengthens the damage detection process, which forbids real-time damage detection. To alleviate this difficulty, in this article, we improve the method suggested by Surace and colleagues by first using the divided difference approach on the identified mode shapes to identify the regions in which jump discontinuities are potentially located and then only applying the polynomial annihilation derivative detector to data points in the identified regions. In this way, the computational burden of this approach is significantly relieved, while the accuracy of damage location is still maintained. The improved method has been validated by numerical simulations on a complex cable-stayed bridge model. This approach does not require baseline response data of structures.
A Comparative Analysis of Public Relations Curricula
Authors: Auger Giselle A. , Cho Moonhee
Published: September 2014

According to scholars, there has been a move toward a more professional or occupational focus in postsecondary education, a focus that Grubb and Lazerson suggest “undermines education’s moral, civic, and intellectual purposes.”1 The purpose of this study was to evaluate the public relations curricula of U.S. universities and colleges and the requirements for entry into the profession. Results indicated that while there are differences, public relations curricula appear to be equally strong regardless of department or type of institution in which the program is located. Moreover, results indicated that the public relations curricula appear to meet the needs of the practice and that the perceived gap between offering of social media courses and the needs of practice may be temporary and illusionary.
Public journalism no more: The digitally native news nonprofit and public service journalism
Authors: Ferrucci Patrick
Published: September 2014

This study utilizes ethnography to examine whether a digitally native news nonprofit, The St. Louis Beacon, practices a new form of public journalism, a movement within the journalism industry that diminished and eventually died in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Using McManus’ market theory for news production as a lens, the data showed that the Beacon practiced a slightly different form of public journalism. Therefore, because of that concept’s negative perception within the industry, this study dubs this new form of public service journalism. Public service journalism still primarily focuses on engagement, but does so without the negative connotations of public journalism and also while allowing the journalists to retain news judgment.
Electroencephalographic Evaluation for Early Diagnosis of Limbic Encephalitis
Authors: Pessa Maria Elena , Janes Francesco , Gigli Gian Luigi
Published: September 2014

Limbic encephalitis (LE) is an inflammation of structures of limbic system. It may be an autoimmune disease or secondary to a neoplasia. Onset is subacute within a few weeks and clinical presentation is characterized by behavioral changes, psychiatric symptoms, short-term memory loss, and epileptic seizures. Diagnosis is typically set after a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, revealing hyperintensity in limbic structures on T2, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequences or detection of antineuronal antibodies; EEG aspecific alterations on temporal areas usually match with MRI and laboratory findings. Specific diagnostic criteria are still under debate. We describe a case presenting with EEG alterations before MRI ones.

A 36-year-old woman came to our attention for a first generalized tonic–clonic seizure, several episodes of likely epigastric auras and memory loss. Her clinical history was unremarkable. Neurological examination and brain MRI with gadolinium were normal. Electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings showed theta activity and sharp elements in frontotemporal regions. Therapy with levetiracetam 1000 mg/day was started, but she had another generalized seizure and episodes of epigastric auras increased to 10 per day. After 2 months, another cerebral MRI revealed areas of swelling and signal alteration in deep left temporal areas, especially in hippocampal and parahippocampal gyrus. A spectroscopic evaluation revealed decreased N-acetyl aspartate peak and increased choline and myo-inositol peaks in left frontotemporal areas. These findings were consistent with LE. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was normal; viral serology and onconeuronal antibodies on CSF and blood were negative. Patient was treated with high-dosage steroids, with improvement in memory, epileptic seizures and auras. A third MRI revealed no signal alterations.

In conclusion, the clinical picture initially did not meet accepted diagnostic criteria for LE. Effective steroid therapy was consequently delayed. With this case report we would emphasize diagnostic relevance of EEG alterations early in suspected LE in order to start immunosuppressive therapy as soon as possible.
P300 Amplitude in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hedges Dawson , Janis Rebecca , Mickelson Stephen , Keith Cierra , Bennett David , Brown Bruce L
Published: September 2014

Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60% of all dementia. Numerous biomarkers have been developed that can help in making an early diagnosis. The P300 is an event-related potential that may be abnormal in Alzheimer’s disease. Given the possible association between P300 amplitude and Alzheimer’s disease and the need for biomarkers in early Alzheimer’s disease, the main purpose of this meta-analysis and meta-regression was to characterize P300 amplitude in probable Alzheimer’s disease compared to healthy controls. Using online search engines, we identified peer-reviewed articles containing amplitude measures for the P300 in response to a visual or auditory oddball stimulus in subjects with Alzheimer’s disease and in a healthy control group and pooled effect sizes for differences in P300 amplitude between Alzheimer’s disease and control groups to obtain summary effect sizes. We also used meta-regression to determine whether age, sex, educational attainment, or dementia severity affected the association between P300 amplitude and Alzheimer’s disease. Twenty articles containing a total of 646 subjects met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The overall effect size from all electrode locations was 1.079 (95% confidence interval = 0.745-1.412, P < .001). The pooled effect sizes for the Cz, Fz, and Pz locations were 1.226 ( P < .001), 0.724 ( P = .0007), and 1.430 ( P < .001), respectively. Meta-regression showed an association between amplitude and educational attainment, but no association between amplitude and age, sex, and dementia severity. In conclusion, P300 amplitude is smaller in subjects with Alzheimer’s disease than in healthy controls.
Accuracy of liquid cytology in the diagnosis and monitoring of eosinophilic oesophagitis
Authors: Rodríguez-Sánchez Joaquín , García Rojo Marcial , López Viedma Bartolomé , de la Santa Belda Eva , Palomar Pilar Olivencia , Torrijos Elisa Gómez , López Lucia González , Camacho José Olmedo
Published: September 2014

Background

Oesophagoscopy with biopsy is considered the gold standard for diagnosing and monitoring eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE). Therefore is important to discover less‐invasive diagnostic methods.

Methods

Cytology specimens were obtained in patients with active EoE (AEoE) (≥15 eos/hpf) and EoE in remission (EoER) (<15 eos/hpf). The samples were assessed by two independent pathologists and were compared with biopsy samples. EoE cytology specimens were compared with specimens obtained from patients with GERD.

Results

Specimens of 36 patients (69.4% male, mean age 30.88 years) were included. AEoE (17, 47.2%), EoER (11, 30.5%) and GERD (22.2%). eos/hpf in cytology (AEoE 9.23 vs. EoER 1.54 vs. GERD 2, p  = 0.01). Linear correlation between eos/hpf average biopsy and cytology eos/hpf: r  = 0.57, p  < 0.001. For diagnosis of EoE ≥3 eos/hpf in cytology obtained a sensitivity of 70%, specificity 81%, PPV 86% and NPV 60% (AUC = 0.81, p  = 0.01). For detection of AEoE, ≥3 eos/hpf in LBC obtained a sensitivity of 70%, specificity 82%, PPV 81% and NPV 66% (AUC = 0.87, p  = 0.001).

Conclusions

LBC in oesophageal aspirate seems to be effective for the diagnosis and monitoring activity in EoE. These results support the usefulness of non‐invasive methods for the diagnosis and monitoring of EoE.
Microstructure and mechanical behaviour of Al9Si alloy with different Fe contents
Authors: Malavazi J. , Baldan R. , Augusto Couto A.
Published: September 2014

The role of iron in aluminium–silicon alloys is well established, with the element generally regarded as being detrimental to the mechanical properties. However, iron is sometimes unavoidable so we study for the first time, a larger concentration range of iron than has been previously reported, to establish whether the deterioration in mechanical properties is monotonic with concentration. It is found that the variation is not linear, but that the greatest elongation and mechanical resistance is obtained in the presence of 0·4 wt- of iron. The mechanism is attributed to the presence of a particular intermetallic compound that has a Chinese script-like morphology.
Microstructure, mechanical and corrosion properties of Mg–Nd–Zn–Sr–Zr alloy as a biodegradable material
Authors: Zhang X. B. , Zhang Y. , Chen K. , Ba Z. X. , Wang Z. Z. , Wang Q.
Published: September 2014

The Mg–2·5Nd–0·3Zn–0·1Sr–0·4Zr (wt-) alloy was prepared by gravity casting. Solution treatment and extrusion were conducted. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion behaviour of the alloy under as cast, T4-treated, and as extruded conditions were evaluated using scanning electron microscope, tensile test, microhardometre, immersion test, and electrochemical test. The results show that the as extruded alloy exhibits the highest ultimate tensile strength (231 MPa), elongation (36·6), and microhardness (57·8 HV). The as cast alloy shows the best corrosion resistance because the relative continuously distributed eutectic phase with noble corrosion potential acts as a corrosion barrier. The as extruded Mg–Nd–Zn–Sr–Zr alloy with high ductility and good corrosion resistance is desirable for preparing biodegradable implants.
Improved ductility of magnesium alloy sheets by pre-hardening and annealing
Authors: He J. , Jiang B. , Yang Q. , Zeng Y. , Xia X. , Pan F.
Published: September 2014

The mechanical behaviour of AZ31 magnesium alloy sheets were evaluated at different directions tilting 0, 45 and 90° to rolling direction. A suitable critical point of pre-stretching has been investigated through the work hardening curve of the magnesium alloy sheets. The microstructure and mechanical properties were examined and compared. The results indicated that the average yield strength of the 0, 45 and 90° pre-hardened 4 specimens followed by annealing decreased 30 MPa and the average uniform elongation increased up to 38 compared with the as received sheet. Pre-hardening process is suggested as a potential technique to improve the ductility and anisotropy of magnesium alloy sheets.
Laser ablation of phosphor bronze for superhydrophobic surface
Authors: Yilbas B. S.
Published: September 2014

Copper alloys have antibacterial characteristics and improved hydrophobicity of alloy surface minimises the strains left over by the infected fluids, which is vital for hygienic concerns in medical applications. In the present study, laser ablation of phosphor bronze surface is carried out to improve surface hydrophobicity. Morphology and metallurgy of the laser ablated surfaces are characterised using scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The surface texture is analysed incorporating atomic force microscopy. Surface hydrophobicity is assessed through the contact angle measurements. Residual stress formed in the ablated region is determined using the X-ray diffraction technique and the friction coefficient of the ablated surface is evaluated via scratch tests. The findings reveal that laser ablation of phosphor bronze provides superhydrophobic surface, high hardness, reasonably low residual stresses and low friction coefficient. The average contact angle of 140° is resulted at the laser ablated surface, which is significantly higher than that of as received surface.
Rapid recrystallisation and surface modification of titanium by electro discharge
Authors: Jo Y. J. , Jo Y. H. , Seong J. G. , Kim Y. H. , Chang S. Y. , Noh M. S. , Jeong H. G. , Lee W. H.
Published: September 2014

2·0 to 3·5 kJ of input energy as a single pulse from a 150 μF capacitor was applied to a 50% cold rolled Ti to induce rapid recrystallisation and surface modification. Using an input energy of 2·0 kJ, complete recrystallisation occurred over a period of 96 μs and the resulting microstructure was identical to that of a Ti before cold rolling. With an input energy of 2·5 kJ or higher, thermal oxycarburisation progressed by the formation of a titanium oxycarbide layer and the activation energy for the associated diffusion process was calculated to be 231 kJ mol−1. A much higher value of hardness that was observed at the edge of the cross section was attributed to oxygen and carbon induced solid solution hardening. Both the recrystallisation and surface modification processes depended on the amount of heat generated during an electro discharge, which could be manipulated by input energy and capacitance.
Note on certain inequalities for Neuman means
Authors: Chen Shu-Bo , He Zai-Yin , Chu Yu-Ming , Song Ying-Qing , Tao Xiao-Jing
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we give the explicit formulas for the Neuman means

N

A
H

,

N

H
A

,

N

A
C

, and

N

C
A

, and present the best possible upper and lower bounds for these means in terms of the combinations of harmonic mean H, arithmetic mean A, and contraharmonic mean C.

MSC:26E60.
Hepatitis B virus X protein specially regulates the sialyl lewis a synthesis among glycosylation events for metastasis
Authors: Chung Tae-Wook , Kim Seok-Jo , Choi Hee-Jung , Song Kwon-Ho , Jin Un-Ho , Yu Dae-Yeul , Seong Je-Kyung , Kim Jong-Guk , Kim Keuk-Jun , Ko Jeong-Heon , Ha Ki-Tae , Lee Young-Choon , Kim Cheorl-Ho
Published: September 2014

Background

The metastasis of hematogenous cancer cells is associated with abnormal glycosylation such as sialyl lewis antigens. Although the hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) plays important role in liver disease, the precise function of HBx on aberrant glycosylation for metastasis remains unclear.

Methods

The human hepatocellular carcinoma tissues, HBx transgenic mice and HBx-transfected cells were used to check the correlation of expressions between HBx and Sialyl lewis antigen for cancer metastasis. To investigate whether expression levels of glycosyltransferases induced in HBx-transfected cells are specifically associated with sialyl lewis A (SLA) synthesis, which enhances metastasis by interaction of liver cancer cells with endothelial cells, ShRNA and siRNAs targeting specific glycosyltransferases were used.

Results

HBx expression in liver cancer region of HCC is associated with the specific synthesis of SLA. Furthermore, the SLA was specifically induced both in liver tissues from HBx-transgenic mice and in in vitro HBx-transfected cells. HBx increased transcription levels and activities of α2-3 sialyltransferases (ST3Gal III), α1-3/4 fucosyltransferases III and VII (FUT III and VII) genes, which were specific for SLA synthesis, allowing dramatic cell-cell adhesion for metastatic potential. Interestingly, HBx specifically induced expression of N-acetylglucosamine-β1-3 galactosyltransferase V (β1-3GalT 5) gene associated with the initial synthesis of sialyl lewis A, but not β1-4GalT I. The β1-3GalT 5 shRNA suppressed SLA expression by HBx, blocking the adhesion of HBx-transfected cells to the endothelial cells. Moreover, β1-3GalT 5 silencing suppressed lung metastasis of HBx-transfected cells in in vivo lung metastasis system.

Conclusion

HBx targets the specific glycosyltransferases for the SLA synthesis and this process regulates hematogenous cancer cell adhesion to endothelial cells for cancer metastasis.
Peanut immunotherapy
Authors: Anagnostou Katherine , Clark Andrew
Published: September 2014

Peanut allergy is common and can be a cause of severe, life‐threatening reactions. It is rarely outgrown like other food allergies, such as egg and milk. Peanut allergy has a significant effect on the quality of life of sufferers and their families, due to dietary and social restrictions, but mainly stemming from fear of accidental peanut ingestion. The current management consists of strict avoidance, education and provision of emergency medication, but a disease‐ modifying therapy is needed for peanut allergy. Recent developments involve the use of immunotherapy, which has shown promise as an active form of treatment. Various routes of administration are being investigated, including subcutaneous, oral, sublingual and epicutaneous routes. Other forms of treatment, such as the use of vaccines and anti‐IgE molecules, are also under investigation. So far, results from immunotherapy studies have shown good efficacy in achieving desensitisation to peanut with a good safety profile. However, the issue of long‐term tolerance has not been fully addressed yet and larger, phase III studies are required to further investigate safety and efficacy. An assessment of cost/benefit ratio is also required prior to implementing this form of treatment. The use of immunotherapy for peanut allergy is not currently recommended for routine clinical use and should not be attempted outside specialist allergy units.