bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired B Cell Receptor Signaling Is Responsible for Reduced TACI Expression and Function in X-Linked Immunodeficient Mice
Authors: Uslu Kadriye , Coleman Adam S. , Allman Windy R. , Katsenelson Nora , Bram Richard J. , Alugupalli Kishore R. , Akkoyunlu Mustafa
Published: March 2014

Immune response to T cell independent type 2 (TI-2) Ags, such as bacterial polysaccharides, is severely impaired in X-linked immunodeficient (XID) mice. In this study, we investigated the involvement of a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) or BAFF and their receptors in the unresponsiveness of XID mouse to TI-2 Ags. We discovered that whereas serum BAFF levels were increased, the expression of the APRIL and BAFF receptor transmembrane activator and calcium-modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI) was severely reduced in XID B cells. Moreover, B cells from XID mouse were unable to secrete Igs in response to APRIL or BAFF. In correlation with reduced TACI expression and impaired TACI function, APRIL or BAFF did not activate the classical NF-κB pathway in XID cells. Also correlating with the unaltered expression of BAFF receptor, BAFF stimulation induced the activation of the alternative NF-κB pathway in XID cells. Moreover, activation of MAPK pathway was ablated in APRIL-stimulated XID cells. Prestimulation of XID B cells with the TLR9 agonist, CpG led to a significant increase in TACI expression and restored TACI-mediated functions. CpG prestimulation also restored TACI-mediated signaling in APRIL- or BAFF-stimulated XID B cells. Finally, immunization of XID mouse with the prototype TI-2 Ag NP-Ficoll induced IgG and IgM Abs when CpG was given with NP-Ficoll. Collectively, these results suggest that reduced TACI expression is responsible for the unresponsiveness of XID mouse to TI-2 Ags and BCR activation controls TACI expression.
Gene Expression Profiles Normalized in Psoriatic Skin by Treatment with Brodalumab, a Human Anti–IL-17 Receptor Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Russell Chris B. , Rand Hugh , Bigler Jeannette , Kerkof Keith , Timour Martin , Bautista Edgar , Krueger James G. , Salinger David H. , Welcher Andrew A. , Martin David A.
Published: March 2014

The IL-17 pathway is an established driver of psoriasis pathogenesis. We examined the detailed molecular and cellular effects of blockade of IL-17 signaling in human psoriatic skin before and following treatment with brodalumab, a competitive inhibitor of the IL-17 Receptor A subunit. Thousands of aberrantly expressed genes in lesional skin normalized within 2 weeks following brodalumab treatment, with conversion of the lesional psoriasis transcriptome to resemble that seen in nonlesional skin. Keratinocyte-expressed genes appeared to normalize rapidly, whereas T cell–specific normalization occurred over six weeks. The three IL-17 ligand genes that are upregulated in lesional skin, IL17A, IL17C, and IL17F, were all downregulated in a dose-dependent manner following brodalumab treatment. Cellular measures also showed a similar pattern with dramatic decreases in keratinocyte hyperplasia within one week, and decreases in infiltrating leukocytes occurred over a longer timescale. Individuals with the highest brodalumab exposure showed normalization of both IL-17–responsive genes and the psoriasis transcriptome, whereas subjects with lower exposures showed transient or incomplete molecular responses. Clinical and molecular response appeared dependent on the extent of brodalumab exposure relative to the expression of IL-17 ligand genes, and reduction of IL-17 signaling into the nonlesional range was strongly correlated with normalization of the psoriasis transcriptome. These data indicate that blockade of IL-17 signaling in psoriatic skin leads to rapid transcriptomal changes initially in keratinocyte-expressed genes, followed by normalization in the leukocyte abnormalities, and demonstrates the essential role of the IL-17R on keratinocytes in driving disease pathogenesis.
CD56brightPerforinlow Noncytotoxic Human NK Cells Are Abundant in Both Healthy and Neoplastic Solid Tissues and Recirculate to Secondary Lymphoid Organs via Afferent Lymph
Authors: Carrega Paolo , Bonaccorsi Irene , Di Carlo Emma , Morandi Barbara , Paul Petra , Rizzello Valeria , Cipollone Giuseppe , Navarra Giuseppe , Mingari Maria Cristina , Moretta Lorenzo , Ferlazzo Guido
Published: March 2014

As limited information is available regarding the distribution and trafficking of NK cells among solid organs, we have analyzed a wide array of tissues derived from different human compartments. NK cells were widely distributed in most solid tissues, although their amount varied significantly depending on the tissue/organ analyzed. Interestingly, the distribution appeared to be subset specific, as some tissues were preferentially populated by CD56brightperforinlow NK cells, with others by the CD56dimperforinhigh cytotoxic counterpart. Nevertheless, most tissues were highly enriched in CD56brightperforinlow cells, and the distribution of NK subsets appeared in accordance with tissue gene expression of chemotactic factors, for which receptors are differently represented in the two subsets. Remarkably, chemokine expression pattern of tissues was modified after neoplastic transformation. As a result, although the total amount of NK cells infiltrating the tissues did not significantly change upon malignant transformation, the relative proportion of NK subsets infiltrating the tissues was different, with a trend toward a tumor-infiltrating NK population enriched in noncytotoxic cells. Besides solid tissues, CD56brightperforinlow NK cells were also detected in seroma fluids, which represents an accrual of human afferent lymph, indicating that they may leave peripheral solid tissues and recirculate to secondary lymphoid organs via lymphatic vessels. Our results provide a comprehensive mapping of NK cells in human tissues, demonstrating that discrete NK subsets populate and recirculate through most human tissues and that organ-specific chemokine expression patterns might affect their distribution. In this context, chemokine switch upon neoplastic transformation might represent a novel mechanism of tumor immune escape.
BAFF and BAFF Receptor Levels Correlate with B Cell Subset Activation and Redistribution in Controlled Human Malaria Infection
Authors: Scholzen Anja , Teirlinck Anne C. , Bijker Else M. , Roestenberg Meta , Hermsen Cornelus C. , Hoffman Stephen L. , Sauerwein Robert W.
Published: March 2014

Characteristic features of Plasmodium falciparum malaria are polyclonal B cell activation and an altered composition of the blood B cell compartment, including expansion of CD21−CD27− atypical memory B cells. BAFF is a key cytokine in B cell homeostasis, but its potential contribution to the modulation of the blood B cell pool during malaria remains elusive. In the controlled human malaria model (CHMI) in malaria-naive Dutch volunteers, we therefore examined the dynamics of BAFF induction and B cell subset activation and composition, to investigate whether these changes are linked to malaria-induced immune activation and, in particular, induction of BAFF. Alterations in B cell composition after CHMI closely resembled those observed in endemic areas. We further found distinct kinetics of proliferation for individual B cell subsets across all developmental stages. Proliferation peaked either immediately after blood-stage infection or at convalescence, and for most subsets was directly associated with the peak parasitemia. Concomitantly, plasma BAFF levels during CHMI were increased and correlated with membrane-expressed BAFF on monocytes and dendritic cells, as well as blood-stage parasitemia and parasite-induced IFN-γ. Correlating with increased plasma BAFF and IFN-γ levels, IgD−CD38lowCD21−CD27− atypical B cells showed the strongest proliferative response of all memory B cell subsets. This provides unique evidence for a link between malaria-induced immune activation and temporary expansion of this B cell subset. Finally, baseline BAFF-R levels before CHMI were predictive of subsequent changes in proportions of individual B cell subsets. These findings suggest an important role of BAFF in facilitating B cell subset proliferation and redistribution as a consequence of malaria-induced immune activation.
Incorporation of CpG into a Liposomal Vaccine Formulation Increases the Maturation of Antigen-Loaded Dendritic Cells and Monocytes To Improve Local and Systemic Immunity
Authors: Neeland Melanie R. , Elhay Martin J. , Nathanielsz Jackie , Meeusen Els N. T. , de Veer Michael J.
Published: March 2014

Liposomal vaccine formulations incorporating stimulants that target innate immune receptors have been shown to significantly increase vaccine immunity. Following vaccination, innate cell populations respond to immune stimuli, phagocytose and process Ag, and migrate from the injection site, via the afferent lymphatic vessels, into the local lymph node. In this study, the signals received in the periphery promote and sculpt the adaptive immune response. Effector lymphocytes then leave the lymph node via the efferent lymphatic vessel to perform their systemic function. We have directly cannulated the ovine lymphatic vessels to detail the in vivo innate and adaptive immune responses occurring in the local draining lymphatic network following vaccination with a liposome-based delivery system incorporating CpG. We show that CpG induces the rapid recruitment of neutrophils, enhances dendritic cell–associated Ag transport, and influences the maturation of innate cells entering the afferent lymph. This translated into an extended period of lymph node shutdown, the induction of IFN-γ–positive T cells, and enhanced production of Ag-specific Abs. Taken together, the results of this study quantify the real-time in vivo kinetics of the immune response in a large animal model after vaccination of a dose comparable to that administered to humans. This study details enhancement of numerous immune mechanisms that provide an explanation for the immunogenic function of CpG when employed as an adjuvant within vaccines.
Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells Contribute to Staphylococcus aureus Orthopedic Biofilm Infection
Authors: Heim Cortney E. , Vidlak Debbie , Scherr Tyler D. , Kozel Jessica A. , Holzapfel Melissa , Muirhead David E. , Kielian Tammy
Published: March 2014

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous population of immature monocytes and granulocytes that are potent inhibitors of T cell activation. A role for MDSCs in bacterial infections has only recently emerged, and nothing is known about MDSC function in the context of Staphylococcus aureus infection. Because S. aureus biofilms are capable of subverting immune-mediated clearance, we examined whether MDSCs could play a role in this process. CD11b+Gr-1+ MDSCs represented the main cellular infiltrate during S. aureus orthopedic biofilm infection, accounting for >75% of the CD45+ population. Biofilm-associated MDSCs inhibited T cell proliferation and cytokine production, which correlated with a paucity of T cell infiltrates at the infection site. Analysis of FACS-purified MDSCs recovered from S. aureus biofilms revealed increased arginase-1, inducible NO synthase, and IL-10 expression, key mediators of MDSC suppressive activity. Targeted depletion of MDSCs and neutrophils using the mAb 1A8 (anti-Ly6G) improved bacterial clearance by enhancing the intrinsic proinflammatory attributes of infiltrating monocytes and macrophages. Furthermore, the ability of monocytes/macrophages to promote biofilm clearance in the absence of MDSC action was revealed with RB6-C85 (anti–Gr-1 or anti-Ly6G/Ly6C) administration, which resulted in significantly increased S. aureus burdens both locally and in the periphery, because effector Ly 6C monocytes and, by extension, mature macrophages were also depleted. Collectively, these results demonstrate that MDSCs are key contributors to the chronicity of S. aureus biofilm infection, as their immunosuppressive function prevents monocyte/macrophage proinflammatory activity, which facilitates biofilm persistence.
Polymicrobial Sepsis Alters Antigen-Dependent and -Independent Memory CD8 T Cell Functions
Authors: Duong Sean , Condotta Stephanie A. , Rai Deepa , Martin Matthew D. , Griffith Thomas S. , Badovinac Vladimir P.
Published: March 2014

Mortality from sepsis frequently results from secondary infections, and the extent to which sepsis affects pathogen-specific memory CD8 T cell responses remains unknown. Using the cecal ligation and puncture model of polymicrobial sepsis, we observed rapid apoptosis of pre-existing memory CD8 T cells after sepsis induction that led to a loss in CD8 T cell–mediated protection. Ag sensitivity (functional avidity) and Ag-driven secondary expansion of memory CD8 T cells were decreased after sepsis, further contributing to the observed loss in CD8 T cell–mediated immunity. Moreover, Ag-independent bystander activation of memory CD8 T cells in response to heterologous infection was also significantly impaired early after sepsis induction. The reduced sensitivity of pre-existing memory CD8 T cells to sense inflammation and respond to heterologous infection by IFN-γ production was observed in inbred and outbred hosts and controlled by extrinsic (but not cell-intrinsic) factors, suggesting that sepsis-induced changes in the environment regulate innate functions of memory CD8 T cells. Taken together, the data in this study revealed a previously unappreciated role of sepsis in shaping the quantity and functionality of infection- or vaccine-induced memory CD8 T cells and will help further define the decline in T cell–mediated immunity during the sepsis-induced phase of immunosuppression.
Presentación
Authors: Aranda Bustamante Gilberto , Quitral Rojas Máximo
Published: March 2014

Presentación
¡Quiten las manos de Nicaragua! Solidaridad argentina con la revolución sandinista (1979-1990)
Authors: Fernández Hellmund Paula
Published: March 2014

El 19 de julio de 1979 triunfaba en Nicaragua la revolución sandinista, dejando atrás más de 40 años de dictadura somocista y abriendo una luz de esperanza para el pueblo nicaragüense y para miles de hombres y mujeres de todo el mundo. Sin embargo, desde el momento de la victoria, la revolución tuvo que enfrentar una guerra contrarrevolucionaria apoyada y financiada por el gobierno de los Estados Unidos. Esta situación de guerra y crisis generó numerosas expresiones de solidaridad de diferentes organizacionesy países de todo el globo, incluida la Argentina. No obstante, esta dimensión solidaria dela revolución ha sido poco estudiada, y menos aún desde una perspectiva socioantropológica. De esta manera, nos proponemos, a partir de la triangulación de fuentes escritas y orales, describir algunas expresiones de solidaridad provenientes de la Argentina para,finalmente, analizarlas desde un enfoque socioantropológico, en particular, desde la teoría del don.
Aymaras y plebiscitarios. Los indígenas andinos, la chilenización y las identidades en la frontera cultural (Putre 1920-1929)
Authors: Díaz Alberto , Galdames Luis , Ruz Rodrigo
Published: March 2014

Este artículo analiza, sobre la base de documentación archivística, cómo las poblaciones indígenas aymaras del extremo norte de Chile asumieron identidades nacionales peruanas, en contraposición a las políticas de “chilenización” implementadas tanto por las agencias como los agentes chilenos en los poblados de la cordillera andina de Arica, adportas del plebiscito pactado para 1926. Se examinan antecedentes cuantitativos (censos)y testimonios asociados a violencia y xenofobia en torno a la construcción de lealtades nacionales en la periferia de Putre y la frontera de los países andinos
Tectonic framework of the Teslin region, southern Yukon Territory
Authors: Gordey S P , Stevens R A
Published: March 2014

Results of revision geological mapping in Teslin map area (105C) compel a reinterpretation of the tectonic framework for southern Yukon Territory. Significant revelations include the discovery of a thick section of mafic volcanics in North American margin
strata, that Kootenay terrane forms a flat sheet above North American margin strata within which is exposed a window of these same volcanics, and that the Cache Creek terrane, probably soled on the Nahlin fault, rests as a thrust sheet above Stikine terrane. Five varieties of post-tectonic plutonic
rocks are recognized.
Preliminary stratigraphy of Hoodoo Mountain volcanic centre, northwestern British Columbia
Authors: Edwards B R , Russell J K
Published: March 2014

Hoodoo Mountain volcanic centre is a complex edifice consisting of multiple trachyte lava flows and domes interlayered with pyroclastic rocks and deposits. Aphanitic trachyte flows and hyaloclastite are the oldest volcanic units; they underlie sequences of welded
and unwelded pyroclastic flows, and aphanitic domes and lavas. Porphyritic trachyte lavas with up to 20% anorthoclase phenocrysts cap the entire volcanic sequence. Little Bear mountain volcanic centre lies immediately north of Hoodoo Mountain and consists of basalt, basaltic breccia,
hyaloclastite, and crystal lithic tuff. Stratigraphy and radiometric dates (Souther and Yorath, 1991) suggest volcanic activity was interspersed with glacial activity over at least the past 110 000 years. The youngest lava flows erupted after the last major glaciation in this region.
Hyaloclastite deposits at Hoodoo Mountain and at Little Bear mountain are interpreted as products of subglacial eruptions.
Preliminary study of Tertiary volcanic stratigraphy in the Clisbako River area, central British Columbia
Authors: Metcalfe P , Hickson C J
Published: March 2014

Three volcanic assemblages are exposed in the Clisbako River area of central British Columbia. The oldest undeformed units in the area are felsic to intermediate volcanic flows and pyroclastic rocks, which host hydrothermal alteration and mineralization. These
are overlain by an assemblage of intermediate to mafic lava flows. The area of outcrop of the felsic volcanic rocks and the overlying mafic assemblage is a circular highland area, approximately 40 km in diameter. It is possible that this area is an eroded caldera, partially filled with younger
basaltic lavas of the Chilcotin Group.
A new regional mapping project in Vernon map area, British Columbia
Authors: Thompson R I , Daughtry K L
Published: March 2014

In Vernon map area (82L) at least two stratigraphic assemblages link Quesnel terrane, Kootenay terrane and undivided metamorphic assemblages: 1) a Windermere-like biotite/hornblende- feldspar-quartz assemblage; and 2) a carbonaceous schist, phyllite, argillite
assemblage. Volcanic rocks, east of Vernon, thought to be Triassic and unconformable on older strata are likely part of an Eocene succession emplaced during crustal extension. Eocene crustal extension was distributed across a broad area along steeply dipping faults; the horizontal component across
north Okanagan Valley amounts to a few kilometres. Metallic mineral deposit types include porphyry copper and molybdenum, Kuroko-type volcanogenic massive sulphide, skarn copper and gold, mesothermal gold, silver, and base metal veins, epithermal gold and silver veins and breccias, placer gold, and
podiform chromite. Nonmetallic mineral occurrences include granite, sand and gravel, limestone, marble, gypsum, clay, asbestos, soapstone, coal, agate, opal, jasper, wollastonite, fluorite, palagonite, silica, and kyanite.
Turonian (Upper Cretaceous) strata and biochronology of southern Gulf Islands, British Columbia
Authors: Haggart J W
Published: March 2014

The stratigraphic assignment of Cretaceous rocks of the southernmost Gulf Islands is revised: rocks on Sidney Island and several other islands adjacent to the northeast Saanich Peninsula of Vancouver Island are assigned to the Sidney Island Formation. Strata of
the formation include conglomerate, sandstone, and siltstone, and reflect marine transgression in the region. The Sidney Island Formation ranges in age from Early to Middle Turonian, based on ammonites and inoceramid bivalves. Stratigraphic and structural relations of the formation with strata of
the basal Nanaimo Group (Comox Formation) are presently uncertain. Strata of the formation appear to be unrelated to Cretaceous thrust faulting in the nearby San Juan Islands.
Preliminary studies of currents on Sturgeon Bank, Fraser River delta, British Columbia
Authors: Feeney T D
Published: March 2014

Current velocity and directional data are critical to the study of sediment movement on the intertidal area of Sturgeon Bank. Data collected using InterOcean S4 current meters for one month at five stations show that currents on the bank are highly variable in
both speed and direction. In general, flow is bidirectional with flooding currents on the outer bank (seaward) having higher average velocities, while currents on the inner bank (shoreward) show no preferred orientation or peak velocity measurements. Current meters deployed adjacent to coastal
structures or tidal channels reveal data which reflect these interferences. Measuring physical processes in this environment is a difficult task and rarely attempted but this valuable information can assist in the analysis of sediment dynamics in an important part of the deltaic
environment.
Christus as Dawidgestalte in Openbaring
Authors: Helberg Jaap L.
Published: March 2014

Die geweldsoptrede in Openbaring herinner baie aan die tyd van Dawid en dit laat die vraag ontstaan of die ‘regering in liefde’ soos dit in die res van die Nuwe Testament verkondig word, nou plek maak vir ‘geweldsregering’. In hierdie artikel word die antwoord gesoek in die apokaliptiese taal en styl (oortreffende vergelykingstrappe en skerp teenstellings) en in die omraming deur God as die Alfa en die Omega, op wie die hele fokus gerig is en wat alles integreer. Daar word ondersoek hoe dit God se regverdigheid en genade raak en watter rol Dawid in God se koningsheerskappy speel, in die lig van sy verbinding met Christus as die Leeu en die Lam. Aandag word geskenk aan Dawid as koning, as voorbeeldige gelowige en tog sondige mens en aan die betekenis van berou en bekering en ’n persoonlike verhouding met God. Die bevinding is dat die verbandlegging met Dawid ’n verlange vertolk na ’n integrasie van geregtigheid en liefde wat in Dawid skaduagtig was en ten volle tot vervulling kom in die wonder van God in Jesus Christus se lewe, sterwe, opstanding en wederkoms. Openbaring is ’n teken van God se genade deur die ernstige en onophoudelike waarskuwing en oproep tot geloofsvolharding en bekering. Tegelykertyd is dit ’n uitnodiging om na Hom te kom omdat daar net deur en by Hom, die lewende en persoonlike God, lewe is. Buite Hom is daar net disintegrasie.The violence in Revelation resembles much of the violence in the time of David, and this raises the question whether the ‘loving rule’ as proclaimed in the rest of the New Testament gives way to ‘violent rule’. In this article the answer is sought in the apocalyptic language and style of the book (superlatives, sharp contrasts), and in the framing of God as the Alpha and the Omega on Whom everything is focused and Who integrates all. The research investigates how this affects God’s justice and his mercy, and what role David plays in God’s kingly rule, in view of him being linked to Christ as the Lion and the Lamb. The investigation pays attention to David as king, as exemplary believer and yet sinful human, and to the significance of repentance and conversion and a personal relationship with God. It is found that the link to David gives expression to a longing for an integration of righteousness and love, which was shadowy in David and comes to fulfilment in the wonder of God in Jesus Christ’s life, death, resurrection and second coming. The book Revelation is a token of God’s grace, by being a serious and ceaseless warning and call to perseverance in faith and to conversion. Simultaniously it is an invitation to come to Him, because only through and with Him, the living One and personal God, there is life. Outside Him there is only disintegration.
Multimarginal Optimal Transport Maps for One–dimensional Repulsive Costs
Authors: Colombo Maria , De Pascale Luigi , Di Marino Simone
Published: March 2014

We study a multimarginal optimal transportation problem in one dimension. For a symmetric, repulsive cost function, we show that, given a minimizing transport plan, its symmetrization is induced by a cyclical map, and that the symmetric optimal plan is unique. The class of costs that we consider includes, in particular, the Coulomb cost, whose optimal transport problem is strictly related to the strong interaction limit of Density Functional Theory. In this last setting, our result justifies some qualitative properties of the potentials observed in numerical experiments.
Medios de comunicación, referencias nominales y poder en Paraguay
Authors: Juste de Ancos Rubén , Soler Lorraine , Ortí Mata Mario
Published: March 2014

Esta investigación tiene como objetivo abordar empíricamente la dinámica política reflejada en la prensa escrita de Paraguay durante la campaña electoral de 2013. Método. Este estudio empírico se basa en el análisis de redes sociales de las referencias de nombres incluidas en una muestra de artículos periodísticos. Resultados. Los resultados del estudio incluyen varias representaciones gráficas de la cobertura de los actores políticos durante la campaña electoral de 2013, que estuvo fuertemente condicionada por la previa acusación y destitución del expresidente Fernando Lugo. Conclusiones. Este estudio de referencias de nombres confirma la continuidad de los partidos tradicionales en Paraguay como instituciones con poder político y mediático, y el papel secundario y periférico de los actores que emergieron en el panorama político cuando Fernando Lugo ganó la presidencia de Paraguay.
Understanding Resident Learning Preferences Within an Internal Medicine Noon Conference Lecture Series: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sawatsky Adam P. , Zickmund Susan L. , Berlacher Kathryn , Lesky Dan , Granieri Rosanne
Published: March 2014

Background

The lecture remains the most common approach for didactic offerings in residency programs despite conflicting evidence about the effectiveness of this format.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of internal medicine residents toward conferences held in the lecture format.

Methods

The investigators invited internal medicine residents (N  =  144) to participate in focus groups discussing their perspectives about noon conference lectures. The investigators used a semistructured guide to ask about motivations for attendance and effectiveness of noon conferences, transcribed the recordings, coded the discussions, and analyzed the results.

Results

Seven focus groups with a total of 41 residents were held. This identified 4 major domains: (1) motivations for attendance; (2) appropriate content; (3) effective teaching methods; and (4) perspectives on active participation. Residents' motivations were categorized into external factors, including desire for a break and balance to their workload, and intrinsic attributes, including the learning opportunity, topic, and speaker. Appropriate content was described as clinically relevant, practical, and presenting a balance of evidence. Identified effective teaching methods included shorter teaching sessions focused on high-yield learning points structured around cases and questions. While active participation increases residents' perceived level of stress, the benefits of this format include increased attention and learning.

Conclusions

This study furthers our knowledge of the learning preferences of internal medicine residents within the changing environment of residency education and can be used in conjunction with principles of adult learning to reform how we deliver core medical knowledge.
Effects of Potential Federal Funding Cuts on Graduate Medical Education: Results of a Survey of Designated Institutional Officials
Authors: Holt Kathleen D. , Miller Rebecca S. , Philibert Ingrid , Nasca Thomas J.
Published: March 2014

Background

Proposed reductions in federal funding for physician education may affect the United States' ability to produce the number of physicians needed to provide care.

Objective

Using a survey similar to that used by the ACGME in 2011, we assessed designated institutional officials' (DIOs) perceptions of the impact of potential GME funding reductions.

Method

In August 2013, we sent a survey link to all DIOs of ACGME-accredited institutions (N  =  678). A 9-item survey asked how future federal funding would affect the number of residency programs in their institutions under 4 different funding scenarios: stable funding, and reductions of 10%, 33%, and 50%. We also asked about changes in the number of residency positions during the last 2 years.

Results

The response rate was 47.9% (325 of 678 DIOs); respondents represent 58.9% of accredited institutions with more than 1 program. Most respondents reported no change or an increase under the stable funding scenario. Under a 33% funding reduction, an estimated 17 379 (14.8% of all current) positions would be lost, and a 50% reduction would result in a loss of 33 562 positions (28.6%). Primary care specialties (eg, family medicine, internal medicine) would be most affected under the greatest funding reductions.

Conclusions

The findings of the 2013 survey are consistent with 2011 data, with DIOs projecting significant reductions in programs and positions under more severe budget cuts. DIO comments highlighted reduced optimism (compared to data obtained in 2011) about the effect of funding cuts and concerns about the impact of reductions on patient care and health care personnel at teaching institutions.
Dificultades y estrategias en el manejo del régimen terapéutico en el paciente renal crónico en hemodiálisis
Authors: Filipe Cristóvão António
Published: March 2014

Objetivo: identificar las dificultades de los pacientes de hemodiálisis en el manejo del régimen terapéutico, las estrategias para hacer frente a estas dificultades e identificar factores que influyen en la gestión del tratamiento.
Pacientes y métodos: se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a una muestra intencional de 20 pacientes adultos, de dos centros de hemodiálisis, sometidas a análisis de contenido temático. Resultados: la mayor parte de las dificultades es en el área psicosocial: restricción de líquidos; dieta restrictiva; tener que realizar hemodiálisis; duración del tratamiento; tomar la medicación; limitaciones de vacaciones. Para hacer frente a las dificultades, los participantes utilizan más las estrategias de resolución de problemas que las estrategias para el control de las emociones.
Conclusiones: el equipo de salud, la familia y la función renal residual, facilitan el manejo del tratamiento, mientras que el calor del verano y el humo son factores de complicación. Las enfermeras han de entender cómo los pacientes controlan el régimen de tratamiento, para promover mejor su autonomía.
Financiële stress van ouders en het probleemgedrag van adolescenten - De mediërende bijdrage van depressieve symptomen, relatieconflicten en opvoedingsgedragingen
Authors: Ponnet Koen , Wouters Edwin , Mortelmans Dimitri
Published: March 2014

The association between financial stress experienced by mothers and fathers and problem behavior in adolescents: the mediating role of depressive symptoms, interparental conflicts and parenting In this study, we examine how financial stress is associated with problem behaviour
in adolescents through the lives of their parents. Using an actor-partner interdependence model, we explore pathways within (actor) and between (partner) parents. Our data included 340 Flemish two-parent families (n = 1020), with both parents rating their financial stress, depressive
symptoms and interparental conflict, and with parents and adolescents rating parenting and problem behaviour in adolescents.The results indicate that the association between financial stress and problem behaviour in adolescents is mediated by depressive symptoms, interparental conflict
and positive parenting. Another finding is that financial stress has direct and indirect effects on interparental conflict. Furthermore, the impact of financial stress on parenting is greater for fathers than it is for mothers. Although actor effects are more prominent, there is also evidence
of partner effects. Our results underscore the importance of including multiple family members in studies on family stress processes.
Characterization of submicron aerosols during a month of serious pollution in Beijing, 2013
Authors: Zhang J. K. , Sun Y. , Liu Z. R. , Ji D. S. , Hu B. , Liu Q. , Wang Y. S.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. In January 2013, Beijing experienced several serious haze events. To achieve a better understanding of the characteristics, sources and processes of aerosols during this month, an Aerodyne high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-ToF-AMS) was deployed at an urban site between 1 January and 1 February 2013 to obtain the size-resolved chemical composition of non-refractory submicron particles (NR-PM1). During this period, the mean measured NR-PM1 mass concentration was 89.3 ± 85.6 μg m−3, and it peaked at 423 μg m−3. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) differentiated the organic aerosol into five components, including a highly oxidized, low-volatility oxygenated organic aerosol (LV-OOA), a less oxidized, semi-volatile oxygenated OA (SV-OOA), a coal combustion OA (CCOA), a cooking-related OA (COA), and a hydrocarbon-like OA (HOA), which on average accounted for 28%, 26%, 15%, 20% and 11% of the total organic mass, respectively. A detailed comparison between the polluted days and unpolluted days found many interesting results. First, the organic fraction was the most important NR-PM1 species during the unpolluted days (58%), while inorganic species were dominant on polluted days (59%). The OA composition also experienced a significant change; it was dominated by primary OA (POA), including COA, HOA and CCOA, on unpolluted days. The contribution of secondary OA (SOA) increased from 35% to 63% between unpolluted and polluted days. Second, meteorological effects played an important role in the heavy pollution in this month and differed significantly between the two types of days. The temperature and relative humidity (RH) were all increased on polluted days and the wind speed and air pressure were decreased. Third, the diurnal variation trend in NR-PM1 species and OA components showed some differences between the two types of days, and the OA was more highly oxidized on polluted days. Fourth, the effects of air masses were significantly different between the two types of days; air was mainly transported from contaminated areas on the polluted days. The comparison also found that the aerosol was more acidic on polluted days. Additionally, the variation trends of the mass concentration and mass fractions of NR-PM1 species and OA components were more dramatic when the NR-PM1 mass loading was at a higher level. The serious pollution observed in this month can be attributed to the synergy of unfavorable meteorological factors, the transport of air masses from high-pollution areas, emission by local sources, and other factors.
Comparison of ice particle characteristics simulated by the Community Atmosphere Model (CAM5) with in-situ observations
Authors: Eidhammer T. , Morrison H. , Bansemer A. , Gettelman A. , Heymsfield A. J.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. Detailed measurements of ice crystals in cirrus clouds were used to compare with results from the Community Atmospheric Model Version 5 (CAM5) global climate model. The observations are from two different field campaigns with contrasting conditions: Atmospheric Radiation Measurements Spring Cloud Intensive Operational Period in 2000 (ARM-IOP), which was characterized primarily by midlatitude frontal clouds and cirrus, and Tropical Composition, Cloud and Climate Coupling (TC4), which was dominated by anvil cirrus. Results show that the model typically overestimates the slope parameter of the exponential size distributions of cloud ice and snow, while the variation with temperature (height) is comparable. The model also overestimates the ice/snow number concentration (0th moment of the size distribution) and underestimates higher moments (2nd through 5th), but compares well with observations for the 1st moment. Overall the model shows better agreement with observations for TC4 than for ARM-IOP in regards to the moments. The mass-weighted terminal fallspeed is lower in the model compared to observations for both ARM-IOP and TC4, which is partly due to the overestimation of the size distribution slope parameter. Sensitivity tests with modification of the threshold size for cloud ice to snow autoconversion (Dcs) do not show noticeable improvement in modeled moments, slope parameter and mass weighed fallspeed compared to observations. Further, there is considerable sensitivity of the cloud radiative forcing to Dcs, consistent with previous studies, but no value of Dcs improves modeled cloud radiative forcing compared to measurements. Since the autoconversion of cloud ice to snow using the threshold size Dcs has little physical basis, future improvement to combine cloud ice and snow into a single category, eliminating the need for autoconversion, is suggested.
Adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system for profiling of the atmosphere
Authors: Ramesh K. , Kesarkar A. P. , Bhate J. , Venkat Ratnam M. , Jayaraman A.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. Retrieval of accurate profiles of temperature and water vapor is important for the study of atmospheric convection. However, it is challenging because of the uncertainties associated with direct measurement of atmospheric parameters during convection events using radiosonde and retrieval of remote-sensed observations from satellites. Recent developments in computational techniques motivated the use of adaptive techniques in the retrieval algorithms. In this work, we have used the Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) to retrieve profiles of temperature and humidity over tropical station Gadanki (13.5° N, 79.2° E), India. The observations of brightness temperatures recorded by Radiometrics Multichannel Microwave Radiometer MP3000 for the period of June–September 2011 are used to model profiles of atmospheric parameters up to 10 km. The ultimate goal of this work is to use the ANFIS forecast model to retrieve atmospheric profiles accurately during the wet season of the Indian monsoon (JJAS) season and during heavy rainfall associated with tropical convections. The comparison analysis of the ANFIS model retrieval of temperature and relative humidity (RH) profiles with GPS-radiosonde observations and profiles retrieved using the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) algorithm indicates that errors in the ANFIS model are less even in the wet season, and retrievals using ANFIS are more reliable, making this technique the standard. The Pearson product movement correlation coefficient (r) between retrieved and observed profiles is more than 99% for temperature profiles for both techniques and therefore both techniques are successful in the retrieval of temperature profiles. However, in the case of RH the retrieval using ANFIS is found to be better. The comparison of mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE) and symmetric mean absolute percentage error (SMAPE) of retrieved temperature and RH profiles using ANN and ANFIS also indicates that profiles retrieved using ANFIS are significantly better compared to the ANN technique. The error analysis of profiles concludes that retrieved profiles using ANFIS techniques have improved the retrievals substantially; however, retrieval of RH by both techniques (ANN and ANFIS) has limited success.
Climatology of zonal wind and large-scale FAC with respect to the density anomaly in the cusp region: seasonal, solar cycle, and IMF By dependence
Authors: Kervalishvili G. N. , Lühr H.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. We investigate the relationship of the thermospheric density anomaly (ρrel) with the neutral zonal wind velocity (Uzonal), large-scale field-aligned current (FAC), small-scale FAC, and electron temperature (Te) using the superposed epoch analysis (SEA) method in the cusp region. The dependence of these variables on the sign of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) By component and local season is of particular interest. Also, the conditions that lead to larger relative density enhancements are investigated. Our results are based on CHAMP satellite data and OMNI online data of IMF for solar maximum (March 2002–March 2007) and minimum (March 2004–March 2009) conditions in the Northern Hemisphere. In the cusp region the SEA technique uses the time and location of the mass density anomaly peaks as reference parameters. On average, the amplitude of the relative density anomaly, ρrel, does not depend on the solar cycle phase, local season, and IMF By sign. Also, it is apparent that the amplitude of IMF By does not have a large influence on ρrel, while the negative IMF Bz amplitude prevailing about half an hour earlier is in good correlation with ρrel. Both the zonal wind velocity and the large-scale FAC (LSFAC) distribution exhibit a clear dependence on the IMF By sign. Uzonal is directed towards dawn for both positive and negative IMF By at all local seasons and for solar maximum and minimum conditions. There is a systematic imbalance between downward (upward) and upward (downward) large-scale FACs peaks equatorward and poleward of the reference point, respectively, for the IMF By+ (By−) case. Relative density enhancements appear halfway between region 1 and region 0 currents in closer proximity to the upward FAC region. FAC densities and mass density anomaly amplitudes are not well correlated, but it is apparent that there is a close spatial relationship between ρrel and LSFAC. At this point we cannot offer any simple functional relation between these two variables, because there seem to be additional quantities controlling this relation.
Bio-geographic classification of the Caspian Sea
Authors: Fendereski F. , Vogt M. , Payne M. R. , Lachkar Z. , Gruber N. , Salmanmahiny A. , Hosseini S. A.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. Like other inland seas, the Caspian Sea (CS) has been influenced by climate change and anthropogenic disturbance during recent decades, yet the scientific understanding of this water body remains poor. In this study, an eco-geographical classification of the CS based on physical information derived from space and in-situ data is developed and tested against a set of biological observations. We used a two-step classification procedure, consisting of (i) a data reduction with self-organizing maps (SOMs) and (ii) a synthesis of the most relevant features into a reduced number of marine ecoregions using the Hierarchical Agglomerative Clustering (HAC) method. From an initial set of 12 potential physical variables, 6 independent variables were selected for the classification algorithm, i.e., sea surface temperature (SST), bathymetry, sea ice, seasonal variation of sea surface salinity (DSSS), total suspended matter (TSM) and its seasonal variation (DTSM). The classification results reveal a robust separation between the northern and the middle/southern basins as well as a separation of the shallow near-shore waters from those off-shore. The observed patterns in ecoregions can be attributed to differences in climate and geochemical factors such as distance from river, water depth and currents. A comparison of the annual and monthly mean Chl a concentrations between the different ecoregions shows significant differences (Kruskal–Wallis rank test, P < 0.05). In particular, we found differences in phytoplankton phenology, with differences in the date of bloom initiation, its duration and amplitude between ecoregions. A first qualitative evaluation of differences in community composition based on recorded presence-absence patterns of 27 different species of plankton, fish and benthic invertebrate also confirms the relevance of the ecoregions as proxies for habitats with common biological characteristics.
Identifying sources and controlling factors of arsenic release in saline groundwater aquifers
Authors: Liu C.-W. , Lu K.-L. , Kao Y.-H. , Wang C.-J. , Maji S.-K. , Lee J.-F.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. An integrated hydrogeochemical study was carried out to realize the occurrence of arsenic (As) in a saline aquifer. Saline groundwater was mostly concentrated in the uppermost aquifer, and non-saline water was in the lower aquifer in the study area. High As concentrations were found in both the uppermost and lower aquifers. No correlation among salinity, well depth and As concentration was observed. Various forms of Fe oxyhydroxides were identified in the magnetic fractions, which were concentrated by high gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) technique, revealing that the redox cycling of Fe occurred in the subsurface. High levels of Fe, HCO3-, DOC and NH4+ concentrations accompanying alkaline pH in the As-rich groundwater were consistent with the mechanism triggered by the microbially mediated reductive dissolution of Fe oxyhydroxides. A proposed threshold value of 50μg L-1 As concentration was used as an indicator for identification of active proceeding reductive dissolution of As-bearing Fe oxyhydroxides in the saline aquifer. Desorption behaviors of As were relevant to its valence in the sediments and the co-existence of anions. Experimental and numerical results showed that additions of Cl- and SO42-, which represent the main anions of saline water, had minor effect on leaching sedimentary As. Although bicarbonate addition resulted in less As desorption than that of phosphate on a molar basis, the contribution of bicarbonate to the total release of As was greater than phosphate due to the much higher concentration of bicarbonate in shallow groundwater and the associated microbial mediation. Collectively, the chemical effect of saline water on the As release to groundwater is mild in the coastal aquifer.
Left ventricle pseudoaneurysm as late postoperative complication of a large apical aneurysm
Authors: Floria Mariana M. , Pleșoianu Carmen Elena , Buche Michel , Marchandise Baudouin , Schroeder Erwin
Published: March 2014

We report here the case of a patient with large left ventricular apical aneurysm incidentally discovered seven years after an inferior myocardial infarction. The aneurysm was successfully corrected by surgery. However, five months after surgery, the patient’s evolution was complicated by the sudden occurrence of a pseudoaneurysm. This case is complex and interesting because of several factors, including the incidental discovery, the atypical localization of an aneurysm secondary to the right coronary chronic occlusion, the size of the aneurysm, the preoperative differential diagnosis and the unusual late postoperative evolution.
Enhancing Soil Water Content for Increased Food Production in Semi-Arid Areas of Kenya Results From an On-Farm Trial in Mwala District, Kenya
Authors: Karuma Anne , Mtakwa Peter , Amuri Nyambilila , Gachene Charles K. , Gicheru Patrick
Published: March 2014

Soil water conservation through tillage is one of the appropriate ways of addressing soil moisture deficit in rainfed agriculture. This study evaluated the effects of tillage practices on soil moisture conservation and crop yields in Mwala District, Eastern Kenya during the long rains (LR) and short rains (SR) of 2012/13. Six tillage systems: Disc plough (MB), Disc plough and harrowing (MBH), Ox-ploughing (OX), Subsoiling – ripping (SR), Hand hoe and Tied Ridges (HTR) and Hand hoe only (H) and, three cropping systems namely, sole maize, sole bean and maize - bean intercrop, were investigated in a split-plot design with four replicates. Data on soil water content was monitored at different weeks after planting and the crop yields at end of each growing season. A three-season average shows that soil water content and crop yields were higher in conventional tillage methods compared to the conservation tillage methods. Long term tillage experiments are thus required at different locations, under various environmental and soil conditions to validate the study findings.