bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anticonvulsant Profiles of Certain New 6-Aryl-9-substituted-6,9-diazaspiro-[4.5]decane-8,10-diones and 1-Aryl-4-substituted-1,4-diazaspiro[5.5]undecane-3,5-diones
Authors: Aboul-Enein Mohamed , El-Azzouny Aida , Attia Mohamed , Maklad Yousreya , Aboutabl Mona , Ragab Fatma , El-Hamid Walaa
Published: September 2014

Synthesis and anticonvulsant potential of certain new 6-aryl-9-substituted-6,9-diazaspiro[4.5]decane-8,10-diones (6a–l) and 1-aryl-4-substituted-1,4-diazaspiro[5.5] undecane-3,5-diones (6m–x) are reported. The intermediates 1-[(aryl)(cyanomethyl)amino] cycloalkanecarboxamides (3a–f) were prepared via adopting Strecker synthesis on the proper cycloalkanone followed by partial hydrolysis of the obtained nitrile functionality and subsequent N-cyanomethylation. Compounds 3a–f were subjected to complete nitrile hydrolysis to give the respective carboxylic acid derivatives 4a–f which were cyclized under mild conditions to give the spiro compounds 5a–f. Ultimately, compounds 5a–f were alkylated or aralkylated to give the target compounds 6a–i and 6m–u. On the other hand, compounds 6j–l and 6v–x were synthesized from the intermediates 5a–f through alkylation, dehydration and finally tetrazole ring formation. Anticonvulsant screening of the target compounds 6a–x revealed that compound 6g showed an ED50 of 0.0043 mmol/kg in the scPTZ screen, being about 14 and 214 fold more potent than the reference drugs, Phenobarbital (ED50 = 0.06 mmol/kg) and Ethosuximide (ED50 = 0.92 mmol/kg), respectively. Compound 6e exhibited an ED50 of 0.019 mmol/kg, being about 1.8 fold more potent than that of the reference drug, Diphenylhydantoin (ED50 = 0.034 mmol/kg) in the MES screen. Interestingly, all the test compounds 6a–x did not show any minimal motor impairment at the maximum administered dose in the neurotoxicity screen.
The Role of 8-Oxoguanine DNA Glycosylase-1 in Inflammation
Authors: Ba Xueqing , Aguilera-Aguirre Leopoldo , Rashid Qura , Bacsi Attila , Radak Zsolt , Sur Sanjiv , Hosoki Koa , Hegde Muralidhar , Boldogh Istvan
Published: September 2014

Many, if not all, environmental pollutants/chemicals and infectious agents increase intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the site of exposure. ROS not only function as intracellular signaling entities, but also induce damage to cellular molecules including DNA. Among the several dozen ROS-induced DNA base lesions generated in the genome, 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (8-oxoG) is one of the most abundant because of guanine’s lowest redox potential among DNA bases. In mammalian cells, 8-oxoG is repaired by the 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase-1 (OGG1)-initiated DNA base excision repair pathway (OGG1–BER). Accumulation of 8-oxoG in DNA has traditionally been associated with mutagenesis, as well as various human diseases and aging processes, while the free 8-oxoG base in body fluids is one of the best biomarkers of ongoing pathophysiological processes. In this review, we discuss the biological significance of the 8-oxoG base and particularly the role of OGG1–BER in the activation of small GTPases and changes in gene expression, including those that regulate pro-inflammatory chemokines/cytokines and cause inflammation.
A New Cytotoxicity Assay for Brevetoxins Using Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: McCall Jennifer , Elliott Elizabeth , Bourdelais Andrea
Published: September 2014

Brevetoxins are a family of ladder-framed polyether toxins produced during blooms of the marine dinoflagellate, Karenia brevis. Consumption of shellfish or finfish exposed to brevetoxins can lead to the development of neurotoxic shellfish poisoning. The toxic effects of brevetoxins are believed to be due to the activation of voltage-sensitive sodium channels in cell membranes. The traditional cytotoxicity assay for detection of brevetoxins uses the Neuro-2A cell line, which must first be treated with the neurotoxins, ouabain and veratridine, in order to become sensitive to brevetoxins. In this study, we demonstrate several drawbacks of the Neuro-2A assay, which include variability for the EC50 values for brevetoxin and non-linear triphasic dose response curves. Ouabain/ veratridine-treated Neuro-2A cells do not show a typical sigmoidal dose response curve in response to brevetoxin, but rather, have a polynomial shaped curve, which makes calculating EC50 values highly variable. We describe a new fluorescence live cell imaging model, which allows for accurate calculation of cytotoxicity via nuclear staining and additional measurement of other viability parameters depending on which aspect of the cell is stained. In addition, the SJCRH30 cell line shows promise as an alternative to Neuro-2A cells for testing brevetoxins without the need for ouabain and veratridine.
Antioxidant Effects of Grape Vine Cane Extracts from Different Chinese Grape Varieties on Edible Oils
Authors: Min Zhuo , Guo Zemei , Wang Kai , Zhang Ang , Li Hua , Fang Yulin
Published: September 2014

This study involved the determination of the peroxide value (POV) as a measure of the resistance of the oxidation of edible oil with grape vine cane additives to assess their antioxidation potential. The study demonstrated that grape extracts of canes could effectively inhibit the lipid oxidation of edible oils and that this ability varied significantly due to the different extraction solvents employed, as well as to the different varieties of canes used. Lipid oxidation of edible oils was significantly reduced under an accelerated storage condition of 70 ± 1 °C in the presence of Vitamin C (VC), which was chosen as a synergist of grape vine cane extract. A 4:1 ratio of Victoria Blanc-ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) and VC led to a significant lowering of the peroxide value and indicated a better antioxidant effect. Thus, these results indicated that some varieties of grape vine cane extracts could be applied as natural antioxidants for elevation of the quality of edible oils in the food industry.
Current and Potential Applications of Bismuth-Based Drugs
Authors: Keogan Donal , Griffith Darren
Published: September 2014

: Bismuth compounds have been used extensively as medicines and in particular for the treatment of gastrointestinal ailments. In addition to bismuth’s well known gastroprotective effects and efficacy in treating H. pylori infection it also has broad anti-microbial, anti-leishmanial and anti-cancer properties. Aspects of the biological chemistry of bismuth are discussed and biomolecular targets associated with bismuth treatment are highlighted. This review strives to provide the reader with an up to date account of bismuth-based drugs currently used to treat patients and discuss potential medicinal applications of bismuth drugs with reference to recent developments in the literature. Ultimately this review aims to encourage original contributions to this exciting and important field.
An Optimal Three-Way Stable and Monotonic Spectrum of Bounds on Quantiles: A Spectrum of Coherent Measures of Financial Risk and Economic Inequality
Authors: Pinelis Iosif
Published: September 2014

A spectrum of upper bounds (Qα(X ; p) αε[0,∞] on the (largest) (1-p)-quantile Q(X;p) of an arbitrary random variable X is introduced and shown to be stable and monotonic in α, p, and X , with Q0(X ;p) = Q(X;p). If p is small enough and the distribution of X is regular enough, then Qα(X ; p) is rather close to Q(X ; p). Moreover, these quantile bounds are coherent measures of risk. Furthermore, Qα(X ; p) is the optimal value in a certain minimization problem, the minimizers in which are described in detail. This allows of a comparatively easy incorporation of these bounds into more specialized optimization problems. In finance, Q0(X;p) and Q1(X ; p) are known as the value at risk (VaR) and the conditional value at risk (CVaR). The bounds Qα(X ; p) can also be used as measures of economic inequality. The spectrum parameter α plays the role of an index of sensitivity to risk. The problems of the effective computation of the bounds are considered. Various other related results are obtained.
Time is of the Essence: Risk and the Public Law Outline, Judicial Discretion and the Determination of a Child’s Best Interests
Authors: Welbourne Penelope
Published: September 2014

The Children and Families Act 2014 has introduced a 26-week timeline for Children Act 1989 care and supervision court cases. This article discusses the risks and possible ramifications for children and parents of this measure, which halves the average length of care proceedings. This is to be set against evidence that faster resolution of children’s cases is possible without prejudicing the quality of court decision making; however, careful monitoring is indicated to ensure that child welfare is at the forefront in the decision making process and the individual rights of all concerned are protected.
Role of microRNAs in Arbovirus/Vector Interactions
Authors: Asgari Sassan
Published: September 2014

The role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as small non-coding RNAs in regulation of gene expression has been recognized. They appear to be involved in regulation of a wide range of cellular pathways that affect several biological processes such as development, the immune system, survival, metabolism and host-pathogen interactions. Arthropod-borne viruses impose great economic and health risks around the world. Recent advances in miRNA biology have shed some light on the role of these small RNAs in vector-virus interactions. In this review, I will reflect on our current knowledge on the role of miRNAs in arbovirus-vector interactions and the potential avenues for their utilization in limiting virus replication and/or transmission.
A Comparative Study on Flood Management in China and Japan
Authors: Huang Guangwei
Published: September 2014

Attempts at flood management during the 20th century resulted in more flood disasters. To gain a better understanding of what went wrong, it is necessary to examine historical evidence, seek ancient wisdom and compare practices of flood management in different countries. This study examines flood management concepts and practices in China and Japan during different periods of time in history and the differences in the two countries’ current management of flood retarding basins. It reveals that during the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC–24 AD), China proposed to redirect a river course to gain sufficient flood retarding capacity, and this same concept was realized, either coincidentally or intentionally, during the Edo period of Japan (1603–1868). In modern times, however, the management of flood retarding basins differs fundamentally between China and Japan. In addition, this study investigates the differences in emergency evacuation practices between China and Japan. This is the first study to highlight the link between a Chinese concept and a Japanese practice that are separated by more than 1000 years.
Combining Cross-sectional Data on Prevalence with Risk Estimates from a Prediction Model
Authors: König J. , Blettner M. , Wild P. , Münzel T. , Lackner K. , Blankenberg S. , Pfeiffer N. , Beutel M. , Zwiener I. , Engelhardt B.
Published: September 2014

Objectives: Estimation of the attributable risk for fatal diseases by combining two different data sources.

Methods: We derive a method to estimate the attributable risks of different risk factors by combining general mortality risks with upto-date prevalences of the risk factors using estimates from a risk prediction model and cross-sectional data of a cohort study. Partial attributable risks have been used to illustrate the proportions of the different risk factors for the attributable risk. In addition we derive standard errors for the attributable risk based on the Taylor series expansion. Since the data of our cohort study was sampled with the same size in each 10 years age stratum which does not reflect the age-structure of the general population, the attributable risk and its standard errors are calculated using an approach that allows the weighting of the data according to population proportions of age. The formula for the standard errors has been evaluated using bootstrap-techniques.

Results: We successfully implemented the method for the estimation of the attributable risk and its standard errors by integrating risk information using data of the HeartScore Germany and cross-sectional data emerging from the Gutenberg Health Study. The attributable risk can now be calculated without using the information of the overall disease rate. The bootstrap method shows, that the formula for the standard errors is useful.

Conclusion: Our method allows for the combination of different data sources in order to estimate attributable risks and our formula for the standard errors seems to yield a good approximation. But the validity of our method highly depends on the validity of the underlying data sources.
The African baobab (Adansonia digitata, Malvaceae): Genetic resources in neglected populations of the Nuba Mountains, Sudan
Authors: Wiehle Martin , Prinz Kathleen , Kehlenbeck Katja , Goenster Sven , Mohamed Seifeldin Ali , Finkeldey Reiner , Buerkert Andreas , Gebauer Jens
Published: September 2014

• Premise of the study: Adansonia digitata L. is one of the most important indigenous fruit trees of mainland Africa. Despite its significance for subsistence and income generation of local communities, little is known about the genetic and morphological variability of East African populations of A. digitata, including those of Sudan. The aim of the current study, therefore, was to analyze genetic and morphological variability of different baobab populations in Kordofan, Sudan and to estimate the effect of human intervention on genetic differentiation and diversity.

• Methods: A total of 306 trees were randomly sampled from seven spatially separated locations in the Nuba Mountains, Sudan, to cover a wide range of differing environmental gradients and management regimes (‘homesteads’ and ‘wild'). Genetic analyses were conducted using nine microsatellite markers. Because of the tetraploid nature of A. digitata, different approaches were applied to estimate patterns of genetic diversity. Investigations were completed by measurements of dendrometric and fruit morphological characters.

• Key results: Genetic diversity was balanced and did not differ between locations or management regimes, although tendencies of higher diversity in ‘homesteads’ were observed. A Bayesian cluster approach detected two distinct gene pools in the sample set, mainly caused by one highly diverse population close to a main road. The variability of tree characters and fruit morphometries was high, and significantly different between locations.

• Conclusions: Results indicated a rather positive effect with human intervention. The observed populations provide a promising gene pool and likely comprise ecotypes well‐adapted to environmental conditions at the northern distribution range of the species, which should be considered in conservation and management programs.
Evaluation of skin displacement in the equine neck
Authors: Bergh A. , Egenvall A. , Olsson E. , Uhlhorn M. , Rhodin M.
Published: September 2014

Kinematic studies, using reflective skin markers, are commonly used to investigate equine joint motion in equitation science and for rehabilitation purposes. In order to interpret the registrations accurately, the degree of skin displacement has been described for the limbs and back, but not yet for the neck. The aim of the present study was to measure sagittal plane skin displacement in the equine neck. Radiopaque skin markers were applied to the skin over the first six cervical vertebrae of six healthy horses. Latero-lateral radiographs were taken in three standardised neck positions in the sagittal plane: control (horizontal neck), ‘on the bit’ and ‘nose to carpus’. The scales of the images were normalised and calculation of skin displacement was done by use of a coordinate system, dividing the displacement along an x-axis parallel to the vertebra's longitudinal axis and a y-axis perpendicular to the x-axis. Mixed models analysis was employed to study the differences in distances in x- and y-directions, and statistical significance was set to PÃ0.05. Between control and ‘nose to carpus’ positions, there were significant differences in skin marker locations, relative to the underlying vertebrae, in the x-direction for C1-6, and in y-direction for C3-6. Between normal and ‘on the bit’ positions, there were significant difference in both x- and y-directions for C6. Differences in marker locations along x- and y-axes, respectively, were 3±9 mm and 44±14 mm. The outcome of this study indicates that skin displacement should be considered when investigating equine neck motion with skin marker methodology.
Functional Avidity–Driven Activation-Induced Cell Death Shapes CTL Immunodominance
Authors: Santa Silvia Dalla , Merlo Anna , Bobisse Sara , Ronconi Elisa , Boldrin Daniela , Milan Gabriella , Barbieri Vito , Marin Oriano , Facchinetti Antonella , Biasi Giovanni , Dolcetti Riccardo , Zanovello Paola , Rosato Antonio
Published: September 2014

Immunodominance is a complex phenomenon that relies on a mere numerical concept, while being potentially influenced at every step of the immune response. We investigated the mechanisms leading to the establishment of CTL immunodominance in a retroviral model and found that the previously defined subdominant Env-specific CD8+ T cells are endowed with an unexpectedly higher functional avidity than is the immunodominant Gag-recognizing counterpart. This high avidity, along with the Env Ag overload, results in a supraoptimal TCR engagement. The overstimulation makes Env-specific T lymphocytes more susceptible to apoptosis, thus hampering their expansion and leading to an unintentional “immune kamikazing.” Therefore, Ag-dependent, hyperactivation-induced cell death can be regarded as a novel mechanism in the establishment of the immunodominance that restrains and opposes the expansion of high-avidity T cells in favor of lower-affinity populations.
Opposing Effects of CTLA4 Insufficiency on Regulatory versus Conventional T Cells in Autoimmunity Converge on Effector Memory in Target Tissue
Authors: Devarajan Priyadharshini , Miska Jason , Lui Jen Bon , Swieboda Dominika , Chen Zhibin
Published: September 2014

Quantitative variations in CTLA4 expression, because of genetic polymorphisms, are associated with various human autoimmune conditions, including type 1 diabetes (T1D). Extensive studies have demonstrated that CTLA4 is not only essential for the suppressive role of regulatory T cells (Treg) but also required for intrinsic control of conventional T (Tconv) cells. We report that a modest insufficiency of CTLA4 in mice, which mimics the effect of some human CTLA4 genetic polymorphisms, accompanied by a T1D-permissive MHC locus, was sufficient to induce juvenile-onset diabetes on an otherwise T1D-resistant genetic background. Reduction in CTLA4 levels had an unanticipated effect in promoting Treg function both in vivo and in vitro. It led to an increase in Treg memory in both lymphoid and nonlymphoid target tissue. Conversely, modulating CTLA4 by either RNA interference or Ab blockade promoted conventional effector memory T cell formation in the Tconv compartment. The CD4+ conventional effector memory T cells, including those within target tissue, produced IL-17 or IFN-γ. Blocking IL-7 signaling reduced the Th17 autoimmune compartment but did not suppress the T1D induced by CTLA4 insufficiency. Enhanced effector memory formation in both Tconv and Treg lineages may underpin the apparently dichotomized impact of CTLA4 insufficiency on autoimmune pathogenesis. Therefore, although the presence of CTLA4 plays a critical role in controlling homeostasis of T cells, its quantitative variation may impose diverse or even opposing effects on distinct lineages of T cells, an optimal sum of which is necessary for preservation of T cell immunity while suppressing tissue damage.
Diminished Viral Control during Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infection Is Associated with Aberrant PD-1hi CD4 T Cell Enrichment in the Lymphoid Follicles of the Rectal Mucosa
Authors: Mylvaganam Geetha H. , Velu Vijayakumar , Hong Jung-Joo , Sadagopal Shanmugalakshmi , Kwa Suefen , Basu Rahul , Lawson Benton , Villinger Francois , Amara Rama Rao
Published: September 2014

The inhibitory receptor programmed death-1 (PD-1) has been shown to regulate CD8 T cell function during chronic SIV infection; however, its role on CD4 T cells, specifically in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue, is less well understood. In this study, we show that a subset of CD4 T cells expresses high levels of PD-1 (PD-1hi) in the rectal mucosa, a preferential site of virus replication. The majority of these PD-1hi CD4 T cells expressed Bcl-6 and CXCR5, markers characteristic of T follicular helper cells in the lymph nodes. Following a pathogenic SIV infection, the frequency of PD-1hi cells (as a percentage of CD4 T cells) dramatically increased in the rectal mucosa; however, a significant fraction of them did not express CXCR5. Furthermore, only a small fraction of PD-1hi cells expressed CCR5, and despite this low level of viral coreceptor expression, a significant fraction of these cells were productively infected. Interestingly, vaccinated SIV controllers did not present with this aberrant PD-1hi CD4 T cell enrichment, and this lack of enrichment was associated with the presence of higher frequencies of SIV-specific granzyme B+ CD8 T cells within the lymphoid tissue, suggesting a role for antiviral CD8 T cells in limiting aberrant expansion of PD-1hi CD4 T cells. These results highlight the importance of developing vaccines that enhance antiviral CD8 T cells at sites of preferential viral replication and support the need for developing therapeutic interventions that limit expansion of SIV+PD-1hi CD4 T cells at mucosal sites as a means to enhance viral control.
Target therapy in metastatic pheochromocytoma: current perspectives and controversies
Authors: Mohammed Amrallah A. , El-Shentenawy Ayman M. , Sherisher Mohamed A. , El-Khatib Hani M.
Published: September 2014

Most of the pheochromocytomas (PCCs) are benign neoplasms, but when they are malignant, they can be difficult to treat. Despite advances in diagnosis and imaging, it remains an untreatable tumor, when metastases develop. A deeper understanding of the alteration of the specific molecular pathways causing malignant PCCs might hopefully lead in the future to the development of multiple molecular-targeted therapies to treat it successfully. Clinical experience and the use of murine models of metastatic PCCs have helped introduce new experimental treatment options which will significantly help the PCCs community explore novel targeted therapies that have already shown promising results in many other types of tumors.
Review of cisplatin and oxaliplatin in current immunogenic and monoclonal antibody treatments
Authors: Mehmood Rao Khalid
Published: September 2014

Platinum-based chemotherapy agents initially transformed cancer treatment. However their effectiveness peaked as combined regimes showed little additional benefit in trials. New research frontiers developed with the discovery that conventional chemotherapy can induce immunological cell death by recruiting high mobility group box 1 protein through T-cell immunity. Simultaneously monoclonal antibody agents (not effective as monotherapies) showed good results in combination with conventional chemotherapy. Some of these combinations are currently in use and researchers hope to develop regimes which can offer substantial benefits. Several resistance mechanisms against platinum compounds are known, but more knowledge is still needed to gain a full understanding. It seems reasonable therefore to revisit the pharmacology of these agents, which may also lead to identify rational combinations with monoclonal agents providing regimes with less toxicity and better efficacy. This article reviews the pharmacology of cisplatin and oxaliplatin and explores their possible association with monoclonal antibody treatments.
Detection of Carbapenemase Production in Gram-negative Bacteria
Authors: Asthana Sonal , Mathur Purva , Tak Vibhor
Published: September 2014

The greatest threat to antimicrobial treatment of infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria is the production of carbapenemases. Metallo-beta-lactamases and plasmid-mediated serine carbepenemases like Klebsiella pneumonia carbapenemase are threatening the utility of almost all currently available beta-lactams including carbapenems. Detection of organisms producing carbapenemases can be difficult, because their presence does not always produce a resistant phenotype on conventional disc diffusion or automated susceptibility testing methods. These enzymes are often associated with laboratory reports of false susceptibility to carbapenems which can be potentially fatal. Moreover, most laboratories do not attempt to detect carbapenemases. This may be due to the lack of availability of guidelines and procedures or lack of knowledge and expertise. Because routine susceptibility tests may be unreliable, special tests are required to detect the resistance mechanisms involved. This document describes the standard methodology for detection of various types of carbapenemases, which can be put to use by laboratories working on antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative bacteria.
A comparative study to evaluate liquid dish washing soap as an alternative to xylene and alcohol in deparaffinization and hematoxylin and eosin staining
Authors: Pandey Pinki , Dixit Alok , Tanwar Aparna , Sharma Anuradha , Mittal Sanjeev
Published: September 2014

Introduction: Our study presents a new deparaffinizing and hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining method that involves the use of easily available, nontoxic and eco-friendly liquid diluted dish washing soap (DWS) by completely eliminating expensive and hazardous xylene and alcohol from deparaffinizing and rehydration prior to staining, staining and from dehydration prior to mounting. The aim was to evaluate and compare the quality of liquid DWS treated xylene and alcohol free (XAF) sections with that of the conventional H and E sections.

Materials and Methods: A total of 100 paraffin embedded tissue blocks from different tissues were included. From each tissue block, one section was stained with conventional H and E (normal sections) and the other with XAF H and E (soapy sections) staining method. Slides were scored using five parameters: Nuclear, cytoplasmic, clarity, uniformity, and crispness of staining. Z-test was used for statistical analysis.

Results: Soapy sections scored better for cytoplasmic (90%) and crisp staining (95%) with a statistically significant difference. Whereas for uniformity of staining, normal sections (88%) scored over soapy sections (72%) (Z = 2.82, P < 0.05). For nuclear (90%) and clarity of staining (90%) total scored favored soapy sections, but the difference was not statistically significant. About 84% normal sections stained adequately for diagnosis when compared with 86% in soapy sections (Z = 0.396, P > 0.05).

Conclusion: Liquid DWS is a safe and efficient alternative to xylene and alcohol in deparaffinization and routine H and E staining procedure. We are documenting this project that can be used as a model for other histology laboratories.
The Diagnostic Value and Accuracy of Conjunctival Impression Cytology, Dry Eye Symptomatology, and Routine Tear Function Tests in Computer Users
Authors: Bhargava Rahul , Kumar Prachi , Kaur Avinash , Kumar Manjushri , Mishra Anurag
Published: September 2014

Aims and Objectives: To compare the diagnostic value and accuracy of dry eye scoring system (DESS), conjunctival impression cytology (CIC), tear film breakup time (TBUT), and Schirmer's test in computer users.

Methods: A case-control study was done at two referral eye centers. Eyes of 344 computer users were compared to 371 eyes of age and sex matched controls. Dry eye questionnaire (DESS) was administered to both groups and they further underwent measurement of TBUT, Schirmer's, and CIC. Correlation analysis was performed between DESS, CIC, TBUT, and Schirmer's test scores. A Pearson's coefficient of the linear expression (R 2) of 0.5 or more was statistically significant.

Results: The mean age in cases (26.05 ± 4.06 years) was comparable to controls (25.67 ± 3.65 years) (P = 0.465). The mean symptom score in computer users was significantly higher as compared to controls ( P < 0.001). Mean TBUT, Schirmer's test values, and goblet cell density were significantly reduced in computer users (P < 0.001). TBUT, Schirmer's, and CIC were abnormal in 48.5%, 29.1%, and 38.4% symptomatic computer users respectively as compared to 8%, 6.7%, and 7.3% symptomatic controls respectively. On correlation analysis, there was a significant (inverse) association of dry eye symptoms (DESS) with TBUT and CIC scores (R
2 > 0.5), in contrast to Schirmer's scores (R
2 < 0.5). Duration of computer usage had a significant effect on dry eye symptoms severity, TBUT, and CIC scores as compared to Schirmer's test.

Conclusion: DESS should be used in combination with TBUT and CIC for dry eye evaluation in computer users.
Mixed Medullary – Papillary Carcinoma Thyroid: An Uncommon Variant of Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Jain Manjula , Verma Deepti , Thomas Shaji , Chauhan Richa
Published: September 2014

Mixed medullary-papillary carcinoma of the thyroid, a variant of medullary carcinoma is a rare thyroid malignancy accounting for less than 1% of the thyroid malignancies. We are presenting a case of 57-year-old lady with complaints of gradually increasing thyroid swelling for 1½ months. Fine-needle aspiration was suggestive of medullary carcinoma. Serum calcitonin levels were elevated. The patient underwent total thyoidectomy with regional cervical lymph node excision. Histopathologically, the diagnosis of mixed medullary-papillary carcinoma of the thyroid was made. It is important to know about this entity due to its prognostic implications and to prevent any diagnostic dilemmas.
Omental Nodular Deposits of Recurrent Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma Seen on FDG-PET/CT
Authors: Win Aung Zaw , Aparici Carina Mari
Published: September 2014

We present the case of a 69-year-old male with chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Chromophobe RCC accounts for only 4% of renal cancers and it is the least aggressive type. Omental nodular deposits due to RCC metastasis are very rare and it is reported only in more aggressive forms of RCC. This is the first report that shows FluoroDeoxyGlucose – Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomgraphy (FDG-PET/CT) images of omental nodular deposits from chromophobe RCC. FDG-PET/CT is becoming very useful in restaging RCC with distant metastases.
Cooptation of Peer Support Staff: Quantitative Evidence
Authors: Alberta Anthony J. , Ploski Richard R.
Published: September 2014

Objective

In 2007, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) sent a letter to state Medicaid directors outlining requirements for implementing peer-based recovery support services (P-BRSS) as a Medicaid-funded service. Since then, 30 states have implemented these services. Although the literature describing implementation of P-BRSS has identified the cooptation of peer support staff (PSS) as a barrier to the effective provision of P-BRSS, the evidence for it remains anecdotal. This study attempts to determine if the context of employment in either a treatment organization or peer organization affected cooptation.

Methods

We conducted a survey of PSS in the fall of 2013. In all, 92 of the 181 respondents were working as PSS at the time, 53 in treatment organizations. Chi-square analysis was used to determine if the context of employment had an effect on the cooptation of peer staff.

Results

Peer staff working in treatment organizations reported that they were supervised by treatment staff and participated in employment-related training to improve their skills at providing treatment services more frequently than their counterparts in peer organizations. Peer staff working in treatment organizations also participated in training and education to prepare for employment as treatment professionals more frequently than peer staff working in peer organizations.

Conclusions and Implications for Practice

Peer staff members working in treatment organizations are subject to processes of acculturation into professional cultures that peer staff working in peer organizations are not. Effective implementation of P-BRSS should include specific efforts to minimize the cooptation of peer staff.
An experimental study on the effects of nutrient enrichment on organic carbon persistence in the western Pacific oligotrophic gyre
Authors: Liu J. , Jiao N. , Tang K.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Carbon sequestration in the ocean is of great concern with respect to the mitigation of global warming. How to hold the fixed organic carbon in the presence of tremendous numbers of heterotrophic microorganisms in marine environments is the central issue. We previously hypothesized that excessive nutrients would ultimately decrease the storage of organic carbon in marine environments. To test this, a series of in situ nutrient enrichment incubation experiments were conducted at a site (17.59° N, 127.00° E) within the western Pacific oligotrophic gyre. Five treatments were employed: glucose (Glu), algal exudation organic material (EOM), nitrate (N) and phosphate (P), N and P in combination with glucose and a control with no added nutrients. The results showed that the dissolved organic carbon consumption rates and bacterial community specific growth rates were enhanced by inorganic nutrient enrichment treatments during the initial 48 h incubation. At the end of 14 days of incubation, about one-third (average 3.3 μmol C kg−1) more organic carbon was respired in the glucose-enriched incubation with the addition of inorganic nutrients compared to that without. In contrast, when nutrients were limiting, glucose could not be efficiently used by the bacteria and thus it remained in the environment. These results suggest that repletion of inorganic nutrients could facilitate microbial consumption of organic carbon and thus has a significant impact on carbon cycling in the environment.
Improving subtropical boundary layer cloudiness in the 2011 NCEP GFS
Authors: Fletcher J. K. , Bretherton C. S. , Xiao H. , Sun R. , Han J.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. The current operational version of National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Global Forecasting System (GFS) shows significant low cloud bias. These biases also appear in the Coupled Forecast System (CFS), which is developed from the GFS. These low cloud biases degrade seasonal and longer climate forecasts, particularly of short-wave cloud radiative forcing, and affect predicted sea surface temperature. Reducing this bias in the GFS will aid the development of future CFS versions and contributes to NCEP's goal of unified weather and climate modelling. Changes are made to the shallow convection and planetary boundary layer parameterisations to make them more consistent with current knowledge of these processes and to reduce the low cloud bias. These changes are tested in a single-column version of GFS and in global simulations with GFS coupled to a dynamical ocean model. In the single-column model, we focus on changing parameters that set the following: the strength of shallow cumulus lateral entrainment, the conversion of updraught liquid water to precipitation and grid-scale condensate, shallow cumulus cloud top, and the effect of shallow convection in stratocumulus environments. Results show that these changes improve the single-column simulations when compared to large eddy simulations, in particular through decreasing the precipitation efficiency of boundary layer clouds. These changes, combined with a few other model improvements, also reduce boundary layer cloud and albedo biases in global coupled simulations.
Reconciling the dynamic relationship between climate variables and vegetation productivity into a hydrological model to improve streamflow prediction under climate change
Authors: Tesemma Z. K. , Wei Y. , Peel M. C. , Western A. W.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Anthropogenic climate change is projected to enrich the atmosphere with carbon dioxide, change vegetation dynamics and influence the availability of water at the catchment. This study combines a simple model for estimating changes in leaf area index (LAI) due to climate fluctuations with the variable infiltration capacity (VIC) land surface model to improve catchment streamflow prediction under a changing climate. The combined model was applied to thirteen gauged catchments with different land cover types (crop, pasture and tree) in the Goulburn–Broken catchment, Australia during the "Millennium Drought" (2000–2009), and two future periods (2021–2050 and 2071–2100) for two emission scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5). The future climatic and modelled streamflow results were compared with the baseline historical period of 1981–2010. This region is projected to be warmer and mostly drier in the future as predicted by 38 Coupled Model Inter-comparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) simulations from 15 Global Climate Models (GCMs) and for two emission scenarios. The results showed that during the Millennium Drought there was about a 30–65% reduction in mean annual runoff due to reduced rainfall and increased temperature. This climate based reduction in mean annual runoff was partially offset by a drought related decline in LAI that reduced the climate related reduction of mean annual runoff, effectively increased runoff, by 2–9%. Projected climate change may reduce mean annual runoff by between 6 and 31% in the study catchments. However, when LAI is allowed to respond to changes in climate the projected declines in runoff were reduced to between 2 and 22% in comparison to when the historical LAI was considered. Incorporating changes in LAI in VIC to respond to changing climate reduced the projected declines in streamflow and confirms the importance of including the effects of changes in vegetation productivity in future projections of streamflow.
Multiplicador de emprego e salário: Estudo comparativo para a região sul e o restante do Brasil em 1999 e 2004
Authors: Fachinelli Angel dos Santos , Moretto Antônio Carlos , Guilhoto Joaquim José Martins , Rodrigues Rossana Lott , Sesso Filho Umberto Antonio
Published: September 2014

O objetivo deste estudo é analisar o efeito multiplicador de empregos e salários para as categorias formal e informal, em um sistema inter-regional de input-output. Para tal, foi utilizada a matriz da Região Sul e do Restante do Brasil, estimada para o ano de 1999 e 2004 organizadas em 23 setores, juntamente com microdados da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios (PNAD) dos mesmos anos.  Considera-se a caracterização dos indivíduos de acordo com: escolaridade, faixa etária, rendimento, gênero e categoria de emprego (formal e informal). Entre os principais resultados destacam-se queda da participação dos macros setores Agropecuária e Serviços nas regiões. Os Estados Paraná, Santa Catarina e Restante do Brasil apresentaram queda dos multiplicadores de salários nas categorias formal e informal para a maioria dos setores, fato não observado no Rio Grande do Sul. Os maiores multiplicadores de emprego tanto para a categoria formal quanto informal foram para os setores ligados à Indústria.
Impacto econômico de curto prazo da Universidade Estadual de Londrina
Authors: Tarocco Filho José , Sesso FIlho Umberto Antonio , Esteves Emerson Zuan Guzzi , Kureski Ricardo
Published: September 2014

O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar o impacto econômico de curto prazo da Universidade Estadual de Londrina e seus impactos locais e inter-regionais no ano de 2006, com relação a emprego e renda. Através da análise de insumo-produto, foi calculado os multiplicadores emprego e remunerações, geração de emprego e renda e os índices de ligação para trás e para frente. Através dos resultados verificou que a Educação Pública emprega 6,19% do pessoal ocupado e é responsável por 12,27% das remunerações geradas no município. A Educação Pública se destacou na geração de emprego em Londrina, que junto com os setores de Educação Mercantil e Serviços (13), foi o quarto maior indicador, ficando atrás dos setores: Administração Pública, Comércio e Indústria Diversas e Mobiliários. Já seu multiplicador de emprego é de 1,25, no qual multiplicado pelo total de funcionários da UEL (5.353) geraria um total de 1339 empregos, e sua capacidade de gerar remunerações por efeito direto no município é a terceira maior com R$ 368.153 milhões.
Evidence of the Interaction Between Crop Species and Organic Amendments: Modelling of the Differential Grain Yield Response of Wheat, Soybean, and Canola to Organic Amendments
Authors: Nkoa Roger , Ondoua Boris , Voroney Paul , Tambong James
Published: September 2014

Knowledge on the interaction between plants and organic amendments is critical for the basic understanding of agroecosystems sustainability. Organic amendments are of great interest in agriculture by virtue of their ability to restore lost soil organic carbon in eroded or conventionally cultivated soils. The major objective of this study was to demonstrate and model the differential response of crop species to organic amendments. Despite the potential of such an interaction to improve crop production, it has never been formally demonstrated in a planned experiment. A two-year greenhouse experiment set as 3×3×5 factorial in a strip-split plot design was conducted. The effects of crop species, type of organic amendment, and application rates on grain yield of soybean, canola, and wheat were evaluated. To account for the asymmetry of the concave responses of soybean, mathematical transcendental models were fitted, for the first time, to yield data. The interaction between crop species and amended soils was highly significant. Soybean displayed concave transcendental yield responses whereas canola and wheat exhibited negative exponential responses, irrespective of the type of amendment. Turkey compost outperformed turkey litter and beef manure by 30% and 52%, respectively, with respect to soybean production; whereas turkey litter outperformed turkey compost and beef manure by 144% and 264%, respectively, with respect to canola and wheat production. It is concluded that in greenhouse settings and perhaps field conditions, growth and development of crop species can be enhanced by matching the specific characteristics of organic amendments to the specific nutrients demand of crop species.
Métissage, multi-appartenance, créolité à l’Île de La Réunion
Authors: Pourchez Laurence
Published: September 2014

Initialement déserte lors de son peuplement à partir de la seconde moitié du XVIIe siècle, l’Île de La Réunion a été peuplée de Français, de Malgaches puis d’Indiens, d’hommes (les femmes étant particulièrement minoritaires) originaires d’Afrique de l’Est, d’Asie, et même, pour quelques-uns d’entre eux, d’Australie et de Polynésie. Durant les premières années d’occupation de l’Île, les mariages entre individus d’origines différentes étaient tolérés « pourvus que ceux-ci fussent baptisés ». Les premiers enfants nés dans l’Île étaient « métis », mais le gouverneur d’alors fit proclamer « l’interdiction faite aux blancs d’épouser des négresses » et « l’interdiction faite aux femmes blanches d’avoir commerce avec des noirs ». Cet édit fut renouvelé par trois fois sans être suivi d’effet par la population. Cet article se propose de discuter des notions de métissage, de multi-appartenance et de créolité à l’Île de La Réunion. Notre propos sera d’examiner, à l’aide de quelques exemples pris notamment dans la médecine traditionnelle, la manière dont les racines des Réunionnais se sont développées ; dans le sens parfois, de l’affirmation d’une créolité en terme de métissage et de création culturelle, d’une multi-appartenance qui peut être revendiquée (être Réunionnais et Français et…) ou parfois niée au profit du choix d’une appartenance unique associée à des racines supposées.
Les transformations de la « question métisse » en Nouvelle-Calédonie (1853-2009)
Authors: Muckle Adrian , Trépied Benoît
Published: September 2014

À la lumière de l’instauration en 2009 de catégories de recensement inédites permettant une identification officielle des « métis », cet article analyse les façons dont le métissage a été problématisé et représenté en Nouvelle-Calédonie depuis les débuts de la colonisation. L’examen des principales évolutions de la « question métisse » dans le débat public permet ici de montrer qu’en dépit de leur assimilation juridique aux catégories coloniales de « citoyen » ou d’« indigène », les métis en Nouvelle-Calédonie n’ont jamais été pour autant socialement invisibles, mais ont fait en réalité l’objet de discussions récurrentes. Cet article se penche en particulier sur les transformations des discours sur le métissage à l’époque coloniale (avant 1946), au moment des « évènements » violents des années 1980, puis sous l’ère des Accords de Matignon (1988) et de Nouméa (1998). Alors que la question métisse a le plus souvent disparu avec l’accession à l’indépendance des autres anciennes colonies françaises, le processus actuel de décolonisation en Nouvelle-Calédonie suscite au contraire de nouvelles évocations du métissage et de singulières expressions de l’identité métisse.
L’identité des métis belges
Authors: Hennes Dana
Published: September 2014

Cette note de recherche s’intéresse aux caractéristiques principales marquant le parcours identitaire varié des métis d’origine africaine vivant en Belgique ainsi que les obstacles qui entravent leur processus d’identification dans la société belge. L’analyse d’une quinzaine d’entrevues menées avec des métis mettra en évidence les forces du métissage qui ont été développées de manière stratégique en réponse à un environnement socio-médiatique peu favorable à l’acceptation et à la représentation de leur identité mixte. Face à une non existence symbolique dans la société belge, les métis témoignent d’une capacité remarquable d’adaptation sociale, ainsi que d’un certain devoir d’intermédiation culturelle et d’engagement social. Une réflexion sur la persistance de la stigmatisation phénotypique, hérédité du passé colonial belge (1908-1960), sera ensuite proposée, qui mettra en avant la construction identitaire des métis à travers les jugements et représentations de l’Autre. Enfin, l’auteure discute les forces du métissage belgo-congolais contemporain dans le contexte de la globalisation vis-à-vis du dualisme d’hétérogénéité et d’homogénéité.
Et si Paul Sauvé n’avait jamais prononcé le « Désormais… » ?
Authors: Turgeon1 Alexandre
Published: September 2014

« Désormais… ». Il n’y aurait pas de mots plus célèbres dans l’histoire du Québec. Le premier ministre Paul Sauvé l’aurait prononcé sans cesse à l’automne 1959, alors qu’il succède à Maurice Duplessis, afin de tirer un trait définitif entre deux mondes : la Grande Noirceur duplessiste et la Révolution tranquille. Que Paul Sauvé ait prononcé le « Désormais… », on ne saurait en douter. Les contemporains en attestent, maints historiens le confirment. Osons malgré tout une question : Et si Paul Sauvé n’avait jamais prononcé le « Désormais… » ? C’est ce qui apparaît au terme de recherches exhaustives menées dans les journaux et documents de l’époque. Cet article propose d’étudier comment le « Désormais… » est devenu un mythistoire.
Myosin VIII associates with microtubule ends and together with actin plays a role in guiding plant cell division
Authors: Wu Shu-Zon , Bezanilla Magdalena
Published: September 2014

Plant cells divide using the phragmoplast, a microtubule-based structure that directs vesicles secretion to the nascent cell plate. The phragmoplast forms at the cell center and expands to reach a specified site at the cell periphery, tens or hundreds of microns distant. The mechanism responsible for guiding the phragmoplast remains largely unknown. Here, using both moss and tobacco, we show that myosin VIII associates with the ends of phragmoplast microtubules and together with actin plays a role in guiding phragmoplast expansion to the cortical division site. Our data lead to a model whereby myosin VIII links phragmoplast microtubules to the cortical division site via actin filaments. Myosin VIII's motor activity along actin provides a molecular mechanism for steering phragmoplast expansion.