bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
9HODE Stimulates Cell Proliferation and Extracellular Matrix Synthesis in Human Mesangial Cells via PPARγ
Authors: Negishi Mayumi , Shimizu Hiroyuki , Okada Shuichi , Kuwabara Atsushi , Okajima Fumikazu , Mori Masatomo
Published: July 2017

Plasma oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OX-LDL) levels are elevated in patients with renal diseases, including diabetic nephropathy. We examined effects of OX-LDL on cell proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) production by using normal human mesangial cells. Furthermore, we examined possible involvement of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). Mesangial cell proliferation with OX-LDL, 9-hydroxy-10,12-octadecadienoic acid (9HODE), and 13-hydroxy-9,11-octadecadienoic acid (13HODE), the major components of OX-LDL, were determined by 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) or 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) incorporation. The effect of OX-LDL on mesangial cell proliferation with PD98059 pretreatment was determined by BrdU incorporation. Type IV collagen, fibronectin, and PPARγ expression with OX-LDL or 9HODE or 13HODE was determined by Western blotting. Type IV collagen expression with antisense oligonucleotide against PPARγ pretreatment was also determined by Western blotting. The effect of PD98059 pretreatment on PPARγ expression was determined by Western blotting. In mesangial cells exposed to isolated OX-LDL from human plasma, BrdU incorporation was increased, and this increase was deleted by PD98059. Type IV collagen expression was significantly increased by OX-LDL. 9HODE and 13HODE increased BrdU and MTT incorporation into mesangial cells and also increased expressions of Type IV collagen and fibronection, the major components of ECM. PPARγ expression in mesangial cells was stimulated by 9HODE. The reduction of PPARγ synthesis by pretreatment of antisense oligonucleotide against PPARγ remarkably attenuated Type IV collagen synthesis induced by 9HODE. PPARγ expression induced by 9HODE was also reduced by PD98059 pretreatment. These findings demonstrate that 9HODE, the major component of OX-LDL, stimulates cell proliferation and ECM production of human mesangial cells. In addition, the stimulatory effects are, at least in part, mediated by PPARγ, which may exist in downstream of ERK1/2 pathway.
Expression of Estrogen Receptor α in the Anteroventral Periventricular Nucleus of Hypogonadal Mice
Authors: Chakraborty Tandra R. , Rajendren Gopalan , Gore Andrea C.
Published: July 2017

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-1 (GnRH-1) neurons play critical roles in the development and maintenance of reproductive function in all vertebrates. Due to a truncation in the GnRH-1 gene, hypogonadal (hpg) mice are unable to synthesize GnRH-1 and are Infertile. These animals develop in the complete absence of exposure to gonadal steroid hormones, making them an interesting model for understanding brain sexual differentiation and dimorphism. We studied expression of the estrogen receptors (ERs) α and β in the medial anteroventral periventricular nucleus (mAVPV), an important reproductive neuroendocrine brain region, in wild-type and hpg mice of both sexes. Adult wild-type and hpg mice of the same genetic background were used to quantify numbers of ERα and ERβ immunoreactive cells in the mAVPV using a stereologic approach. Quantitative analyses showed that ERα cell numbers were significantly higher In hpg than wild-type mice, irrespective of sex. Qualitatively, ERα-immunoreactive cells were concentrated more densely along the ventricular zone of the AVPV of wild-type female mice compared with wild-type male mice or hpg male and female mice. No ERβ-immunoreactive cells were detected in the mAVPV of any mice, a result that was surprising because ERβ expression is abundant in the mAVPV of rats. These results on ERα provide additional evidence that the female brain is not the “default” organizational pattern, because neither ERα cell number nor its distribution in hpg mice, which develops with a deficiency of reproductive hormones, resembles that of the wild-type female mouse. Differences in ERα expression may be due in part to the absence of gonadal steroid hormones, although they more likely to also involve othc factors, potentially GnRH itself.
Dietary Potassium Citrate Does Not Harm the pcy Mouse: A Brief Communication
Authors: Tanner Judith A. , Tanner George A.
Published: July 2017

Formation of multiple cysts in the kidneys occurs in several inherited diseases and often leads to terminal kidney failure. Because there is no definitive therapy to halt or slow the progression of renal cystic disease in people, numerous studies have examined possible therapies in animal models. Autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) in the Han:SPRD rat is ameliorated when alkalinizing citrate salts are provided in drinking solutions. By contrast, pcy mice with cystic disease fare worse with the same treatment. We tested the hypothesis that pcy mice ingesting citrate salts in the feed would not be adversely affected by this treatment. Male homozygous pcy mice were given regular feed or 6% potassium citrate-supplemented feed and ad libitum access to water starting at 3 weeks of age. The survival curves of the treated and untreated mice were not significantly different. We conclude that treatment with potassium citrate In the feed does not affect the progression of renal cystic disease in the pcy mouse. This model closely resembles human adolescent nephronophthisis (NPHP3). Based on these findings, citrate treatment cannot be recommended for NPHP3. The fact that it did no harm, however, removes a significant barrier to its consideration as a therapy for ADPKD.
Target Size Analysis by Radiation Inactivation: The Use of Free Radical Scavengers
Authors: Ness Gene C. , Pendleton Laura C. , McCreery Michael J.
Published: July 2017

Several model systems were employed to assess indirect effects that occur in the process of using radiation inactivation analysis to determine protein target sizes. In the absence of free radical scavengers, such as mannitol and benzoic acid, protein functional unit sizes can be drastically overestimated. In the case of glutamate dehydrogenase, inclusion of free radical scavengers reduced the apparent target size from that of a hexamer to that of a trimer based on enzyme activity determinations. For glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, the apparent target size was reduced from a dimer to a monomer. The target sizes for both glutamate dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in the presence of free radical scavengers corresponded to subunit sizes when determinations of protein by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis or immunoblotting were done rather than enzyme activity. The free radical scavengers appear to compete with proteins for damage by secondary radiation products, since irradiation of these compounds can result in production of inhibitory species. Addition of benzoic acid/mannitol to samples undergoing irradiation was more effective in eliminating secondary damage than were 11 other potential free radical scavenging systems. Addition of a free radical scavenging system enables more accurate functional unit size determinations to be made using radiation inactivation analysis.
eNOS Function and Dysfunction in the Penis
Authors: Musicki Biljana , Burnett Arthur L.
Published: July 2017

Endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) has an indispensable role in the erectile response. In the penis, eNOS activity and endothelial NO bioavailability are regulated by multiple post-translatlonal molecular mechanisms, such as eNOS phosphorylation, eNOS interaction with regulatory proteins and contractile pathways, and actions of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These mechanisms regulate eNOS-mediated responses under physiologic circumstances and provide various mechanisms whereby endothelial NO availability may be altered in states of vasculogenlc erectile dysfunction (ED), in view of the recent advances in the field of eNOS function in the penis and its role in penile erection, the emphasis in this review is placed on the mechanisms regulating eNOS activity and its interaction with the RhoA/Rho-kinase pathway in the physiology of penile erection and the pathophysiology of ED.
Suspected Myotoxicity of Edible Wild Mushrooms
Authors: Nieminen Petteri , Kirsi Markku , Mustonen Anne-Mari
Published: July 2017

Recently, the widely consumed yellow tricholoma Tricholoma flavovirens caused delayed rhabdomyolysis and fatalities in humans in France and Poland and triggered elevated plasma creatine kinase activities in mice. Furthermore, the highly appreciated king boletus (Boletus edulis) caused similar responses in experimental mice. Because of this, it was hypothesized that other fungi could also contain chemical compounds that would cause similar myotoxic effects. To test the suspected myotoxicity of other wild mushrooms consumed by tradition, 86 mice were exposed for 5 days to 3, 6, or 9 g/kg body mass/day of edible mushrooms representing diverse genera (Russula spp, Cantharellus cibarius, Albatrellus ovlnus, and Leccinlum versipelle) mixed with regular laboratory rodent diet. The plasma creatine kinase activity increased with all studied mushroom species at 9 g/kg body mass/day, whereas the histologic appearance of muscle and liver samples was unaffected. The results support the hypothesis that the previously observed toxic effects are not specific to T. flavovirens, but probably represent an unspecific response requiring individual sensitivity and a significant amount of ingested mushroom to manifest itself.
Characterization and Role of Lentivirus-Associated Host Proteins
Authors: Kolegraff Keli , Bostik Pavel , Ansari Aftab A.
Published: July 2017

Enveloped viruses obtain their envelopes during the process of budding from infected cells. During this process, however, these viruses acquire parts of the host cell membranes and host cell-derived proteins as integral parts of their mature envelopes. These host-derived components of viral envelopes may subsequently exhibit various effects on the life cycle of the virus; virus cell interactions, especially host response to virus-incorporated self-proteins; and the pathogenesis of the disease induced by these viruses. Although it was known for some time that various viruses incorporate host cell-derived proteins, the issue of the role of these proteins has received increased attention, specifically in connection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in humans. The aim of this review is to summarize our current knowledge of the analysis and role of host-derived proteins associated with enveloped viruses, with emphasis on the potential role of these proteins in the pathogenesis of AIDS. Clearly, differences in the clinical outcome of those nonhuman primates infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) that are disease resistant compared with SIV-infected species that are disease susceptible provide a unique opportunity to determine whether differences in the incorporation of distinct sets of host proteins play a role with distinct clinical outcomes.
Blood Corticosterone Concentration Reaches Critical Illness Levels Early During Acute Malnutrition in the Weanling Mouse
Authors: Monk Jennifer M. , Makinen Kimberley , Shrum Bradly , Woodward Bill
Published: July 2017

Acute (i.e., wasting) pediatric malnutrition consistently elevates blood glucocorticoid levels, but neither the magnitude of the rise in concentration nor its kinetics is clear. Male and female C57BL/6J mice, initially 19 days old, and CBA/J mice, initially 23 days old, consumed a complete purified diet either ad libitum (age-matched control) or in restricted daily quantities (mimicking marasmus), or they consumed a purified isocaloric low-protein diet ad libitum (mimicking incipient kwashiorkor). Serum levels of corticosterone were assessed by double antibody radioimmunoassay after 3, 6, and 14 days (C57BLV6J strain) or after 6 and 14 days in the genetically distant CBA/J strain. Age-matched control groups of both strains exhibited mean corticosterone levels of 5–30 ng/ml, whereas the acutely malnourished groups exhibited mean levels of this hormone that were elevated by more than an order of magnitude as early as 3 days after initiation of weight loss. This outcome was confirmed in a second experiment in which the serum corticosterone level of C57BL/6J weanlings was examined by competitive binding enzyme immunoassay 3 and 14 days after initiation of the dietary protocols. Therefore, deficits of protein and/or energy in weanling murine systems relevant to acute pediatric malnutrition elicit early elevations in blood glucocorticoid levels to a magnitude reminiscent of critical illness and multiple trauma. The key to this novel finding was an exsanguination method that permitted accurate assessment of the blood corticosterone level of the healthy, quiescent mouse. Overall, the results of this investigation provide a new perspective on the glucocorticoids as part of the early hormonal response to acute weanling malnutrition coincident with the shift toward catabolic metabolism and the initiation of depression in cellular immune competence.
Superoxide Formation and Interaction with Nitric Oxide Modulate Systemic Arterial Pressure and Renal Function in Salt-Depleted Dogs
Authors: Dutta Utpal K. , Lane Jason , Roberts L. Jackson , Majid Dewan S. A.
Published: July 2017

To determine the role of superoxide (O2–) formation in the kidney during alterations in the renin-angiotensin system, we evaluated responses to the intra-arterial infusion of an O2–-scavenging agent, tempol, in the denervated kidney of anesthetized salt-depleted (SD, n = 6) dogs and salt-replete (SR, n = 6) dogs. As expected, basal plasma renin activity was higher in SD than in SR dogs (8.4 ± 1.0 vs. 2.3 ± 0.6 ng angiotensin 1/ml/hr). Interestingly, the basal level of urinary F2-isoprostanes excretion (marker for endogenous O2– activity) relative to creatinine (Cr) excretion was also significantly higher in SD compared to SR dogs (9.1 ± 2.8 vs. 1.6 ± 0.4 ng F2-isoprostanes/mg of Cr). There was a significant increase in renal blood flow (4.3 ± 0.5 to 4.9 ± 0.6 ml/min/g) and decreases in renal vascular resistance (38.2 ± 5.8 to 33.2 ± 4.7 mm Hg/ml/min/g) and mean systemic arterial pressure (148 ± 6 to 112 ± 10 mm Hg) in SD dogs but not in SR dogs during infusion of tempol at 1 mg/kg/min for 30 mins. Glomerular filtration rate and urinary sodium excretion (UNaV) did not change significantly during tempol infusion in both groups of dogs. Administration of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor nitro-L-arginine (50 μg/kg/min) during tempol infusion caused a reduction in UNaV in SR dogs (47% ± 12%) but did not cause a decrease in SD dogs. These data show that low salt intake enhances O2– activity that influences renal and systemic hemodynamics and thus may contribute to the regulation of arterial pressure in the salt-restricted state.
Lixazinone Stimulates Mitogenesis of Madin-Darby Canine Kidney Cells
Authors: Cheng Jingfei , Thompson Michael A. , Walker Henry J. , Gray Catherine E. , Warner Gina M. , Zhou Wei , Grande Joseph P.
Published: July 2017

Polycystic kidney diseases (PKD) are characterized by excessive proliferation of renal tubular epithelial cells, development of fluid-filled cysts, and progressive renal insufficiency. cAMP inhibits proliferation of normal renal tubular epithelial cells but stimulates proliferation of renal tubular epithelial cells derived from patients with PKD. Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells, which are widely used as an in vitro model of cystogenesis, also proliferate in response to cAMP. Intracellular cAMP levels are tightly regulated by phosphodiesterases (PDE). Isoform-specific PDE inhibitors have been developed as therapeutic agents to regulate signaling pathways directed by cAMP. In other renal cell types, we have previously demonstrated that cAMP is hydrolyzed by PDE3 and PDE4, but only PDE3 inhibitors suppress proliferation by inhibiting Raf-1 activity (Cheng J, Thompson MA, Walker HJ, Gray CE, Diaz Encarnacion MM, Warner GM, Grande JP. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 287:F940-F953, 2004.) A potential role for PDE isoform(s) in cAMP-mediated proliferation of MDCK cells has not previously been established. Similar to what we have previously found in several other renal cell types, cAMP hydrolysis in MDCK cells is directed primarily by PDE4 (85% of total activity) and PDE3 (15% of total activity). PDE4 inhibitors are more effective than PDE3 inhibitors in increasing intracellular cAMP levels in MDCK cells. However, only PDE3 inhibitors, and not PDE4 inhibitors, stimulate mitogenesis of MDCK cells. PDE3 but not PDE4 inhibitors activate B-Raf but not Raf-1, as assessed by an in vitro kinase assay. PDE3 but not PDE4 inhibitors activate the ERK pathway and activate cyclins D and E, as assessed by histone H1 kinase assay. We conclude that mitogenesis of MDCK cells is regulated by a functionally compartmentalized intracellular cAMP pool directed by PDE3. Pharmacologic agents that stimulate PDE3 activity may provide the basis for new therapies directed toward reducing cystogenesis in patients with PKD.
Efaproxiral (RSR13) Plus Oxygen Breathing Increases the Therapeutic Ratio of Carboplatin in EMT6 Mouse Mammary Tumors
Authors: Donnelly Erling T. , Liu Yanfeng , Rockwell Sara
Published: July 2017

Carboplatin, a member of the platinum family of alkylating agents, is often used in combination with radiotherapy. Some studies, including a recent publication from our laboratory, have suggested that the cytotoxic effects of platinum compounds may be altered by changes in the post-treatment oxygenation. The study reported here assessed whether post-treatment changes in tumor oxygenation caused by oxygen breathing alone or in combination with efaproxiral (RSR13) altered the effects of carboplatin. Efaproxiral, which allosterically modifies hemoglobin-oxygen binding to increase tumor pO2, has been shown to increase the effects of radiation in animal tumor models and is in a second, confirmatory phase III clinical trial as an adjuvant to radiotherapy. These studies with EMT6 tumors in BALB/c Rw mice used clonogenic assays to assess tumor cell survival and tumor growth studies to assess antineoplastic activity and treatment-related toxicity. Efaproxiral plus oxygen breathing for 5 hrs after carboplatin treatment significantly increased the antineoplastic effects of carboplatin. The increased antineoplastic effects of carboplatin produced by efaproxiral plus oxygen breathing occurred without a concomitant increase in host toxicity. These findings suggest that the increases in tumor oxygenation produced by Efaproxiral plus oxygen breathing increased the therapeutic ratio of carboplatin.
Inhibitory Effects of Lycopene on the Adhesion, Invasion, and Migration of SK-Hep1 Human Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Hwang Eun-Sun , Lee Hyong Joo
Published: July 2017

Lycopene, which is the predominant carotenoid in tomatoes and tomato-based foods, may protect humans against various cancers. Effects of lycopene on the adhesion, invasion, migration, and growth of the SK-Hep1 human hepatoma cell line were investigated. Lycopene inhibited cell growth in dose-dependent manners, with growth inhibition rates of 5% and 40% at 0.1 μM and 50 μM lycopene, respectively, after 24 hrs of incubation. Similarly, after 48 hrs of incubation, lycopene at 5 μM and 10 μM decreased the cell numbers by 30% and 40%, respectively. Lycopene decreased the gelatinolytic activities of both matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9, which were secreted from the SK-Hep1 cells. Incubation of SK-Hep1 cells with 110 μM of lycopene for 60 mins significantly inhibited cell adhesion to the Matrigel-coated substrate in a concentration-dependent manner. To study invasion, SK-Hep1 cells were grown either on Matrigel-coated Transwell membranes or in 24-well plates. The cells were treated sequentially for 24 hrs with lycopene before the start of the invasion assays. Cell growth and death were assessed under the same conditions. The invasion of SK-Hep1 cells treated with lycopene was significantly reduced to 28.3% and 61.9% of the control levels at 5 μM and 10 μM lycopene, respectively (P < 0.05). In the migration assay, lycopene-treated cells showed lower levels of migration than untreated cells. These results demonstrate the antimetastatic properties of lycopene in inhibiting the adhesion, invasion, and migration of SK-Hep1 human hepatoma cells.
Reduction of Skeletal Muscle Atrophy by a Proteasome Inhibitor in a Rat Model of Denervation
Authors: Beehler Blake C. , Sleph Paul G. , Benmassaoud Latifa , Grover Gary J.
Published: July 2017

The ubiquitin-proteasome system is the primary proteolytic pathway implicated in skeletal muscle atrophy under catabolic conditions. Although several studies showed that proteasome inhibitors reduced proteolysis under catabolic conditions, few studies have demonstrated the ability of these inhibitors to preserve skeletal muscle mass and architecture in vivo. To explore this, we studied the effect of the proteasome inhibitor Velcade (also known as PS-341 and bortezomib) in denervated skeletal muscle in rats. Rats were given vehicle or Velcade (3 mg/kg po) daily for 7 days beginning immediately after induction of muscle atrophy by crushing the sciatic nerve. At the end of the study, the rats were euthanized and the soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles were harvested. In vehicle-treated rats, denervation caused a 33.5 ± 2.8% and 16.2 ± 2.7% decrease in the soleus and EDL muscle wet weights (% atrophy), respectively, compared to muscles from the contralateral (innervated) limb. Velcade significantly reduced denervation-induced atrophy to 17.1 ± 3.3% in the soleus (P < 0.01), a 51.6% reduction in atrophy associated with denervation, with little effect on the EDL (9.8 ± 3.2% atrophy). Histology showed a Preservation of muscle mass and preservation of normal cellular architecture after Velcade treatment. Ubiquitin mRNA levels in denervated soleus muscle at the end of the study were significantly elevated 120 ± 25% above sham control levels and were reduced to control levels by Velcade. In contrast, testosterone proprionate (3 mg/kg sc) did not alleviate denervation-induced skeletal muscle atrophy but did prevent castration-induced levator ani atrophy, while Velcade was without effect. These results show that proteasome inhibition attenuates denervation-induced muscle atrophy in vivo in soleus muscles. However, this mechanism may not be operative in all types of atrophy.
Accumulation of Recombinant SARS-CoV Spike Protein in Plant Cytosol and Chloroplasts Indicate Potential for Development of Plant-Derived Oral Vaccines
Authors: Li Hong-Ye , Ramalingam Sathishkumar , Chye Mee-Len
Published: July 2017

Plants are promising candidates as bioreactors for the production of oral recombinant proteins in the biopharmaceutical industry. As an initial step toward provision of an oral vaccine against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), we have expressed a partial spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV in the cytosol of nuclear-transformed plants and in the chloroplasts of plastid-transformed plants. In the construction of both nuclear and plastid transformation vectors, a 2-kilobase nucleotide sequence encoding amino acids 1–658 of the SARS-CoV spike protein (S1) was modified with nucleotide changes, but not amino acid changes, to optimize codon usage for expression in plants. To investigate the subcellular localization of S1 during transient expression in tobacco leaves, a translational fusion consisting of S1 and the green fluorescent protein (GFP) was generated. Following agroinfiltration of tobacco leaves, analysis by laser confocal scanning microscopy revealed that the S1:GFP fusion protein was localized to the cytosol. In stable transgenic tobacco plants and lettuce plants generated by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, tobacco and lettuce leaves were observed to express the S1 at high levels from the Cauliflower Mosaic Virus 35S promoter with Northern blot analysis. When the S1 was expressed in transplastomic tobacco, S1 messenger RNA and its corresponding protein were detected on Northern and Western blot analyses, respectively. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of producing S1 in nuclear- and chloroplast-transformed plants, indicating its potential in subsequent development of a plant-derived and safe oral recombinant subunit vaccine against the SARS-CoV in edible plants.
Hormonal Changes Accompanying Cigarette Smoke-Induced Preterm Births in a Mouse Model
Authors: Ng Sheung P. , Steinetz Bernard G. , Lasano Salamia G. , Zelikoff Judith T.
Published: July 2017

Epidemiologic evidence indicates that maternal smoking increases the risk of preterm birth. While a number of plausible mechanisms for early delivery have been offered, the role of gestational hormones in this smoke-induced outcome is uncertain. Thus, a toxicologic study was performed to examine the effects and underlying hormonal mechanisms of mainstream cigarette smoke (MCS) exposure on gestational duration. Pregnant B6C3F1 mice were exposed by inhalation to MCS for 5 days/week (4 hrs/day) from Gestational Day (GD) 4 to parturition. Smoke-induced effects on gestational length, interpubic ligament length, maternal hormone secretion patterns (estradiol-17β, progesterone, prolactin, and relaxin), body weight gain, postimplantation loss, litter size, and offspring sex ratio were examined. Dams exposed to MCS at a concentration equivalent to smoking less than one pack of cigarettes/day (carbon monoxide = 25 parts per million, total suspended particulates = 16 mg/m3) demonstrated a significant (P < 0.05) shortening of gestational duration (compared with pregnant, air-exposed mice). In addition, MCS-exposed mice sacrificed on GD 18 had significantly (P < 0.05) increased interpubic ligament length, elevated serum estrogen levels, and a reduced progesterone to estradiol-17β ratio (compared with air-exposed controls); levels of progesterone and prolactin were only modestly decreased and increased, respectively, in the MCS-exposed mice. Smoke exposure had no significant effects on maternal relaxin levels, body weight gain, postimplantation loss, litter size, or sex ratio. Results of this study demonstrate that inhalation exposure of pregnant mice to a low dose of MCS shortens gestation and alters hormone secretory patterns, which are important for maintaining pregnancy and inducing parturition. These findings support the view that pregnant women who smoke (even modestly) may be at increased risk for preterm birth, and that early delivery may be related (at least partly) to MCS-induced alterations in gestational hormones.
Emotional Sequelae of Elective Abortion: The Role of Guilt and Shame
Authors: Whitney Donna Krupkin
Published: July 2017

Although estimates vary, many women experience long-term emotional, spiritual, psychological and interpersonal difficulties following abortion, including complicated grief, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and relationship disturbances. Developmental, drive, object-relations and narcissism models for perinatal loss also illuminate the dynamics of post-abortion syndromes. Guilt and shame play important roles in generating and concealing post-abortion sequelae. Pastoral care and healthcare providers can increase their awareness of post-abortion sequelae and provide effective care for women experiencing these syndromes.
Markov Chain modeling of cyber threats
Authors: Gore Ross , Padilla Jose , Diallo Saikou
Published: July 2017

Cyber security is a complex, multifaceted, poorly understood problem domain. As the use of digital technology grows, the threat environment continues to evolve dynamically. Traditional approaches for cyber security focus on understanding and addressing vulnerabilities. While this mindset is necessary, it is not sufficient. A better understanding of the nature of existing and future cyber threats is needed to make informed defensive decisions that optimize the use of limited resources. Here, we address this deficiency by applying Markov Chain methods to descriptions of observed cyber threats. The goal of this effort is to identify previously unknown themes of common vulnerabilities. We present the results of our study and discuss its implications. Then we conclude and provide direction for future work.
Quadcopter localization and health monitoring method based on multiple virtual silhouette sensor integration
Authors: Hou Jie , Guo Baolong , Zhu Juanjuan , Li Cheng , He Wangpeng
Published: July 2017

With the widespread deployment of quadcopters, the flight safety issue attracts increasingly public and academic attentions. This article presents a quadcopter flight regime extraction algorithm for quadcopter localization and health monitoring using imageries captured by general purpose monocular cameras. First, contour information is extracted from quadcopter shadows on the ground. In order to better illustrate the three-dimensional silhouette information contained in shadow contour on the ground, a virtual sensor named Shadow Projection Tunnel is designed. Then, multiple Shadow Projection Tunnels are generated according to the extracted silhouette information and corresponding light source positions. Finally, three-dimensional quadcopter positions and flight regimes are extracted based on the aggregation between multiple Shadow Projection Tunnels. The proposed method is validated to be accurate and efficient in monitoring quadcopter position and flight regimes based on the comparative analyses. In comparison with traditional quadcopter health monitoring methods, the proposed method has advantages on deployment convenience, system robustness, precision expandability, and scenario adaptability, making it an ideal solution for quadcopter monitoring in outdoor scenarios.
Exploring Types of Educational Action Research: Implications for Research Validity
Authors: Newton Paul , Burgess David
Published: July 2017

In this paper the authors argue that there are three modes of educational action research: emancipatory, practical, and knowledge generating. Furthermore, they suggest that much of action research, although predicated on notions of emancipatory research, is often not primarily emancipatory in nature. There are considerable risks involved when action research fails to adequately justify its truth claims because of a dependence on validities that primarily assess the emancipatory features of the research. Consequently, the authors propose that the various modes of action research require emphasis on different validities that are dependent on the purposes of the research. In doing this, they offer a reconceptualization of Anderson and Herr's (1999) influential approach to validity in action research.
Considerations of Quality in Phenomenographic Research
Authors: Sin Samantha
Published: July 2017

In this paper the author considers issues of quality in phenomenographic research. Research rigor, which is traditionally evaluated by validity and reliability criteria, ensures that research findings reflect the object of study. Quality in research subsumes rigor and extends considerably beyond satisfying the criteria for rigor. A piece of research has to convince readers of its quality when evaluated against criteria that have been developed through contributions and agreements within the research community. This paper tackles the quality issue in phenomenographic research in three steps. First, criteria for quality in qualitative research are discussed. Second and drawing on the literature, related issues when the criteria are applied to phenomenographic studies and the ways of addressing the issues are examined. Finally, the phenomenographic process is analyzed and suggestions are made for enhancing quality at each stage of the process. New phenomenographic researchers especially will find this paper as a useful guide.
Connecting Participatory Methods in a Study of Older Lesbian and Gay Citizens in Rural Areas
Authors: Fenge Lee-Ann , Jones Kip , Read Rosie
Published: July 2017

The aim in this paper is to present a discussion of the participatory research methods employed to explore intersectionality between sexuality, rurality and age through consideration of a research project investigating how older lesbian and gay citizens in rural southwest England and Wales interact with their local community. The aim of the project is to explore how older lesbian and gay citizens adjust to and connect with their rural environment, exploring the notion of a “rural idyll” for groups who may be seen as different. Discussion of the different methods used to explore themes surrounding connectivity, place, space and identity will be offered. These include a core biographic narrative interpretive method (BNIM), a visual ethnographic method, and an overarching participatory methodology. This methodological approach is reviewed using the six principles for working with disempowered groups identified by Whitmore and McGee (2001).
Diagrams and Relational Maps: The Use of Graphic Elicitation Techniques with Interviewing for Data Collection, Analysis, and Display
Authors: Copeland Andrea J. , Agosto Denise E.
Published: July 2017

Graphic elicitation techniques, which ask research participants to provide visual data representing personal understandings of concepts, experiences, beliefs, or behaviors, can be especially useful in helping participants to express complex or abstract ideas or opinions. The benefits and drawbacks of using graphic elicitation techniques for data collection, data analysis, and data display in qualitative research studies are analyzed using examples from a research study that employed data matrices and relational maps in conjunction with semi-structured interviews. Results from this analysis demonstrate that the use of these combined techniques for data collection facilitates triangulation and helps to establish internal consistency of data, thereby increasing the trustworthiness of the interpretation of that data and lending support to validity and reliability claims. Findings support the notion that graphic elicitation techniques can be highly useful in qualitative research studies at the data collection, the data analysis, and the data reporting stages. For example, this study found that graphic elicitation techniques are especially useful for eliciting data related to emotions and emotional experiences.
Systematic Data Integration—A Method for Combined Analyses of Field Notes and Interview Texts
Authors: Strøm Anita , Fagermoen May Solveig
Published: July 2017

Accepted methods of analysis might be viewed as inadequate for analytical work on field notes and interview transcriptions when the aim is to analyze these as a complete body of material. The purpose of this article is to present a new method for systematic data integration in which the key component is the interweaving of observation data and interview data derived from sequences of interactive situations. The method has been developed in a study where groups of user representatives and professionals collaborated for some time on planning, implementing, and evaluating patient education programmes. The article briefly presents the study on which the method is based, after which the Systematic Data Integration method is introduced with examples from the study. The method entails analytical work on field notes and interview transcriptions, during which raw data and preliminary analysis results are integrated. It will be argued that interweaving the data clarifies the complementarity of the types of data and increases transparency for further theoretical analyses and interpretation. In addition, the interweaving contributes to ensuring quality in choosing quotations used to illustrate and emphasize the study's findings.
Optimal control for jitter suppression of clutch engagement in upshift process of electric vehicles
Authors: Li Junqiu , Wang Yihe , Wang Yizheng
Published: July 2017

In the shift process of large-order automatic transmission, jitter phenomenon is common in clutch engagement process, which greatly affects the ride comfort of the vehicle. In this article, the jitter dynamic model of clutch engagement process was established with lumped mass method and virtual displacement principle. Specific to clutch engagement stage, the optimal control of the coordination between driving motor and wet clutch was studied. In accordance with the jitter dynamic model, the state–space equation with controlling variables of motor torque and clutch friction torque was established. In this optimization problem, the torsion angle, torsion angular velocity, and shift jerk are selected as optimization targets. Utilizing the linear quadratic optimal control theory, the optimal trajectory of motor torque and clutch friction torque was obtained. Aiming at the dynamic responses in clutch engagement process, the optimal control in different conditions of weight coefficients, initial torsion angles, and resistance torques was studied. Results showed that the optimal control strategy could obviously reduce the jitter; in addition, the weight coefficient should be determined according to actual situation reasonably.
Seismic behavior of soil–pile–structure interaction with a modified Desai thin-layer interface element
Authors: Miao Yu , Yao Erlei , Luo Hui , Zhu Hongping
Published: July 2017

The Desai thin-layer interface element is widely utilized in the simulation of interaction between piles and soil under seismic load. Conventional seismic analysis using the interface element cannot simulate the process of energy dissipation because tangential damping is disregarded. In this study, Rayleigh damping is added to the interface element to simulate energy dissipation in a strong nonlinear contact behavior. A user-defined element program based on a modified Desai interface element is developed. A hyperbolic model is adopted to simulate normal and tangential interaction behaviors. Certain behavior pattern rules of the modified Desai element, such as bonding, slipping, gapping, and reclosing, are defined. A three-dimensional pile–soil–structure model with a modified Desai interface element is established to investigate the effect of contact patterns on the inner force responses of a superstructure and pile foundation to an earthquake. Numerical results show that the contact patterns significantly influence the shear force, bending moment, and torque of the superstructure, while axial force is unaffected. With regard to the pile foundation, shear force and bending moment are also significantly influenced.
Multi-layer kinematics and collision energy in a large-scale grinding mill-the largest semi-autogenous grinding mill in China
Authors: Li Tongqing , Peng Yuxing , Zhu Zhencai , Zou Shengyong , Liu Songyong , Yin Zixin , Ni Xu , Chang Xiangdong
Published: July 2017

Using the largest semi-autogenous grinding mill in China as a model, collision energy was analyzed on the basis of the multi-layer kinematics of the steel balls. First, the kinematic equation of the steel balls was obtained by considering the multi-layer characteristics of the steel balls. Second, the collision energy of the inner-layer steel balls was addressed according to its kinematic characteristics. Finally, the total collision energy per unit time was obtained. Results show that the leaving angle decreases as the mill speed ratio increases and as the radius ratio increases, but the leaving velocity increases linearly. Moreover, a discontinuity point of the tangential collision velocity occurs at an angle factor β = 0, and the angle factor β is divided into two intervals: [−3, 0] and [0, 1.5]. The leaving angles corresponding to a tangential velocity equal to zero are calculated to be 1.185 and 0.7854 rad in the two intervals. In addition, the sum collision velocity increases when β is less than zero, but it decreases sharply above zero. The maximum total collision energy per unit time occurs at 84.2% of the mill speed corresponding to the optimal mill speed ratio.
Fundamental considerations on introducing damping to passively magnetically stabilized rotor systems
Authors: Marth Edmund , Jungmayr Gerald , Amrhein Wolfgang
Published: July 2017

When designing passively magnetically stabilized rotor systems, introducing sufficient damping is key. We investigated two different dynamic systems—with one mass and two masses—to determine their theoretical optimal behavior and how they can be realized considering real-world specifications and limitations. Based on dimensionless formulations of reduced dynamic systems, we present fundamental correlations between, and the optimal choice of, physical parameters. Furthermore, we compare the two systems in terms of feasibility and efficiency of different damping methods. Our investigations used an eddy current damper and viscoelastic damping elements as exemplary damping methods for the one-mass and two-mass systems, respectively. Passive stabilization was realized by means of permanent magnetic bearings. We found that the two-mass system is preferable due to the broader range of damping possibilities.
Fractional advection differential equation within Caputo and Caputo–Fabrizio derivatives
Authors: Baleanu Dumitru , Agheli Bahram , Al Qurashi Maysaa Mohamed
Published: July 2017

In this research, we applied the variational homotopic perturbation method and q-homotopic analysis method to find a solution of the advection partial differential equation featuring time-fractional Caputo derivative and time-fractional Caputo–Fabrizio derivative. A detailed comparison of the obtained results was reported. All computations were done using Mathematica.
Development of a body weight support system using pneumatic muscle actuators: Controlling and validation
Authors: Van Thuc Tran , Yamamoto Shin-ichiroh
Published: July 2017

This study introduces the development of a new body weight support system using pneumatic actuators for gait training. The main scope of this work is to provide a new design, validation, and assessment for active body weight support systems to reproduce a subject’s normal walking behavior. Based on the assessments and its evaluations, the novel body weight support system using pneumatic muscle actuators shows many advantageous characteristics, such as simplicity, low cost, maintenance of a constant unloading force, and ease of control of the supported force. The capability of the novel body weight support system to generate unloading forces that track the center of pressure, because it switches from left to right and vice versa as the subject walks, is especially interesting.
Quality improvement initiative: Preventative Surgical Site Infection Protocol in Vascular Surgery
Authors: Parizh David , Ascher Enrico , Raza Rizvi Syed Ali , Hingorani Anil , Amaturo Michael , Johnson Eric
Published: July 2017

Objective

A quality improvement initiative was employed to decrease single institution surgical site infection rate in open lower extremity revascularization procedures. Summary background data: In an attempt to lower patient morbidity, we developed and implemented the Preventative Surgical Site Infection Protocol in Vascular Surgery. Surgical site infections lead to prolonged hospital stays, adjunctive procedure, and additive costs. We employed targeted interventions to address the common risk factors that predispose patients to post-operative complications.

Methods

Retrospective review was performed between 2012 and 2016 for all surgical site infections after revascularization procedures of the lower extremity. A quality improvement protocol was initiated in January 2015. Primary outcome was the assessment of surgical site infection rate reduction in the pre-protocol vs. post-protocol era. Secondary outcomes evaluated patient demographics, closure method, perioperative antibiotic coverage, and management outcomes.

Results

Implementation of the protocol decreased the surgical site infection rate from 6.4% to 1.6% p = 0.0137). Patient demographics and comorbidities were assessed and failed to demonstrate a statistically significant difference among the infection and no-infection groups. Wound closure with monocryl suture vs. staple proved to be associated with decreased surgical site infection rate ( p < 0.005).

Conclusions

Preventative measures, in the form of a standardized protocol, to decrease surgical site infections in the vascular surgery population are effective and necessary. Our data suggest that there may be benefit in the incorporation of MRSA and Gram-negative coverage as part of the Surgical Care Improvement Project perioperative guidelines.
Dynamics and stability analysis on stairs climbing of wheel–track mobile robot
Authors: Gao Xueshan , Cui Dengqi , Guo Wenzeng , Mu Yu , Li Bin
Published: July 2017

A transformable wheel–track robot with the tail rod whose winding will coordinate the center of gravity of the robot is researched, and a theoretical basis for the stable climbing of the robot is provided. After a general introduction of the research, firstly the mechanical hardware and control hardware composition of the wheel–track robot is provided and the principles of its mechanical structure are illustrated. Secondly, through studying the fundamental constrains during the process of the robot climbing the obstacles, a mathematical model based on classical mechanics method is built to help analyze the dynamic principles of a wheel–track mobile robot climbing stairs. Thirdly, the dynamic stability analysis is carried out by analyzing not only the interaction among forces of track, track edge, and stair step but also the different stabilities of the robot when the track and the stairs have different touch points. Finally, an experiment of the modeling track robot climbing the stairs has convinced the effectiveness of the dynamic theories researched, which will be a beneficial reference for the future mobile robots obstacle climbing studies.
A Website System for Communicating Psychological Science
Authors: Diener Ed
Published: July 2017

The peer review and journal system have shortcomings, and both computers and the Internet have made complementary or alternative systems attractive. In this article, I recommend that we implement a new platform for open communication of psychological science on a dedicated website to complement the current review and journal system, with reader reviews of the articles and with all behavioral scientists being eligible to publish and review articles. The judged merit of articles would be based on the citations and the ratings of the work by the whole scientific community. This online journal will be quicker, more democratic, and more informative than the current system. Although the details of the system should be debated and formulated by a committee of scientists, adding this online journal to the existing publications of a society such as the Association for Psychological Science has few risks and many possible gains. An online journal deserves to be tried and assessed.
Mountain Climbing in the Dark: Introduction to the Special Symposium on the Future Direction of Psychological Science
Authors: Sternberg Robert J.
Published: July 2017

This special symposium in Perspectives on Psychological Science answers the question, “Do you believe the field of psychological science is headed in the right direction?” Respondents are a sampling of Association for Psychological Science award winners over the past 5 years dating back from publication of this symposium.