bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zn2+‐induced Ca2+ release via ryanodine receptors triggers calcineurin‐dependent redistribution of cortical neuronal Kv2.1 K+ channels
Authors: Schulien Anthony J. , Justice Jason A. , Di Maio Roberto , Wills Zachary P. , Shah Niyathi H. , Aizenman Elias
Published: March 2016

Key points

Increases in intracellular Zn2+ concentrations are an early, necessary signal for the modulation of Kv2.1 K+ channel localization and physiological function.

Intracellular Zn2+‐mediated Kv2.1 channel modulation is dependent on calcineurin, a Ca2+‐activated phosphatase.

We show that intracellular Zn2+ induces a significant increase in ryanodine receptor‐dependent cytosolic Ca2+ transients, which leads to a calcineurin‐dependent redistribution of Kv2.1 channels from pre‐existing membrane clusters to diffuse localization. As such, the link between Zn2+ and Ca2+ signalling in this Kv2.1 modulatory pathway is established.

We observe that a sublethal ischaemic preconditioning insult also leads to Kv2.1 redistribution in a ryanodine receptor‐dependent fashion.

We suggest that Zn2+ may be an early and ubiquitous signalling molecule mediating Ca2+ release from the cortical endoplasmic reticulum via ryanodine receptor activation.

Sublethal injurious stimuli in neurons induce transient increases in free intracellular Zn2+ that are associated with regulating adaptive responses to subsequent lethal injury, including alterations in the function and localization of the delayed‐rectifier potassium channel, Kv2.1. However, the link between intracellular Zn2+ signalling and the observed changes in Kv2.1 remain undefined. In the present study, utilizing exogenous Zn2+ treatment, along with a selective Zn2+ ionophore, we show that transient elevations in intracellular Zn2+ concentrations are sufficient to induce calcineurin‐dependent Kv2.1 channel dispersal in rat cortical neurons in vitro, which is accompanied by a relatively small but significant hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage‐gated activation kinetics of the channel. Critically, using a molecularly encoded calcium sensor, we found that the calcineurin‐dependent changes in Kv2.1 probably occur as a result of Zn2+‐induced cytosolic Ca2+ release via activation of neuronal ryanodine receptors. Finally, we couple this mechanism with an established model for in vitro ischaemic preconditioning and show that Kv2.1 channel modulation in this process is also ryanodine receptor‐sensitive. Our results strongly suggest that intracellular Zn2+‐initiated signalling may represent an early and possibly widespread component of Ca2+‐dependent processes in neurons.
Unexpected factors affecting the excitability of human motoneurones in voluntary and stimulated contractions
Authors: Khan Serajul I. , Taylor Janet L. , Gandevia Simon C.
Published: March 2016

Key points

The output of human motoneurone pools decreases with fatiguing exercise, but the mechanisms involved are uncertain. We explored depression of recurrent motoneurone discharges (F‐waves) after sustained maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs).

MVC depressed the size and frequency of F‐waves in a hand muscle but a submaximal contraction (at 50% MVC) did not.

Surprisingly, activation of the motoneurones antidromically by stimulation of the ulnar nerve (at 20 or 40 Hz) did not depress F‐wave area or persistence.

Furthermore, a sustained (3 min) MVC of a hand muscle depressed F‐waves in its antagonist but not in a remote hand muscle.

Our findings suggest that depression of F‐waves after voluntary contractions is not simply due to repetitive activation of the motoneurones but requires descending voluntary drive.  Furthermore, this effect may depress nearby, but not distant, spinal motoneurone pools.

There are major spinal changes induced by repetitive activity and fatigue that could contribute to ‘central’ fatigue but the mechanisms involved are poorly understood in humans. Here we confirmed that the recurrent motoneuronal discharge (F‐wave) is reduced during relaxation immediately after a sustained maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of an intrinsic hand muscle (abductor digiti minimi, ADM) and explored the relationship between motoneurone firing and the depression of F‐waves in three ways. First, the depression (in both F‐wave area and F‐wave persistence) was present after a 10 s MVC (initial decrease 36.4 ± 19.1%; mean ± SD) but not after a submaximal voluntary contraction at 50% maximum. Second, to evoke motoneurone discharge without volitional effort, 10 s tetanic contractions were produced by supramaximal ulnar nerve stimulation at the elbow at physiological frequencies of 25 and 40 Hz. Surprisingly, neither produced depression of F‐waves in ADM to test supramaximal stimulation of the ulnar nerve at the wrist. Finally, a sustained MVC (3 min) of the antagonist to ADM (4th palmar interosseous) depressed F‐waves in the anatomically close ADM (20 ± 18.2%) but not in the more remote first dorsal interosseous on the radial side of the hand. We argue that depression of F‐waves after voluntary contractions may not be due to repetitive activation of the motoneurones but requires descending voluntary drive. Furthermore, this effect may depress nearby, but not distant, spinal motoneurone pools and it reveals potentially novel mechanisms controlling the output of human motoneurones.
Analysis of Bifurcations in Multiharmonic Analysis of Nonlinear Forced Vibrations of Gas Turbine Engine Structures With Friction and Gaps
Authors: Petrov E. P.
Published: March 2016

An efficient frequency-domain method has been developed to analyze the forced response of large-scale nonlinear gas turbine structures with bifurcations. The method allows detection and localization of the design and operating conditions sets where bifurcations occur, calculation of tangents to the solution trajectory, and continuation of solutions under parameter variation for structures with bifurcations. The method is aimed at calculation of steady-state periodic solution, and multiharmonic representation of the variation of displacements in time is used. The possibility of bifurcations in realistic gas-turbine structures with friction contacts and with cubic nonlinearity has been shown.
Functional Redundancy of Linuron Degradation in Microbial Communities in Agricultural Soil and Biopurification Systems
Authors: Horemans Benjamin , Bers Karolien , Ruiz Romero Erick , Pose Juan Eva , Dunon Vincent , De Mot René , Springael Dirk
Published: March 2016

The abundance of
libA
, encoding a hydrolase that initiates linuron degradation in the linuron-metabolizing
Variovorax
sp. strain SRS16, was previously found to correlate well with linuron mineralization, but not in all tested environments. Recently, an alternative linuron hydrolase, HylA, was identified in
Variovorax
sp. strain WDL1, a strain that initiates linuron degradation in a linuron-mineralizing commensal bacterial consortium. The discovery of alternative linuron hydrolases poses questions about the respective contribution and competitive character of
hylA
- and
libA
-carrying bacteria as well as the role of linuron-mineralizing consortia versus single strains in linuron-exposed settings. Therefore, dynamics of
hylA
as well as
dcaQ
as a marker for downstream catabolic functions involved in linuron mineralization, in response to linuron treatment in agricultural soil and on-farm biopurification systems (BPS), were compared with previously reported
libA
dynamics. The results suggest that (i) organisms containing either
libA
or
hylA
contribute simultaneously to linuron biodegradation in the same environment, albeit to various extents, (ii) environmental linuron mineralization depends on multispecies bacterial food webs, and (iii) initiation of linuron mineralization can be governed by currently unidentified enzymes.

IMPORTANCE
A limited set of different isofunctional catabolic gene functions is known for the bacterial degradation of the phenylurea herbicide linuron, but the role of this redundancy in linuron degradation in environmental settings is not known. In this study, the simultaneous involvement of bacteria carrying one of two isofunctional linuron hydrolysis genes in the degradation of linuron was shown in agricultural soil and on-farm biopurification systems, as was the involvement of other bacterial populations that mineralize the downstream metabolites of linuron hydrolysis. This study illustrates the importance of the synergistic metabolism of pesticides in environmental settings.
Rethinking the medical in the medical humanities
Authors: O'Neill Desmond , Jenkins Elinor , Mawhinney Rebecca , Cosgrave Ellen , O'Mahony Sarah , Guest Clare , Moss Hilary
Published: March 2016

To clinicians there are a number of striking features of the ever-evolving field of the medical humanities. The first is a perception of a predominantly unidirectional relationship between medicine and the humanities, generally in terms of what the arts and humanities have to offer medicine. The second is the portrayal of medical practice in terms of problems and negativities for which the medical humanities are seen to pose the solution rather than viewing medicine as an active and positive contributor to an interdisciplinary project. Paradigms that fail to recognise the contributions of medicine and its practitioners (including students) to the medical humanities, this paper argues, will continue to struggle with definition and acceptance. This paper explores the possibilities for advancing the medical humanities through recognition of the contribution of medicine to the humanities and the importance of engaging with the arts, culture and leisure pursuits of doctors and medical students. Our research shows the richness of cultural engagement of medical students, their broad range of cultural interests and their ability to contribute to research and scholarship in the medical humanities. Mutual recognition of strengths, weaknesses and differences of scholarly approach is critical to successful development of the enterprise. Recognising and building on the interests, sympathies and contributions of medicine and its practitioners to the medical humanities is a fundamental component of this task. Future directions might include introductory courses for humanities scholars in aspects of healthcare and medicine.
Comparative study of integral abutment bridge structural analysis methods
Authors: Kim WooSeok , Laman Jeffrey A. , Jeong Yoseok , Ou Yu-Chen , Roh Hwasung
Published: March 2016

The primary goal is to accurately predict long-term integral abutment bridge (IAB) responses under thermal loads by applying available numerical modeling techniques developed on the basis of a long-term monitoring of in-service IABs. Considered methodologies are: (1) free expansion; (2) empirical approximate; (3) two-dimensional (2D) static analysis; (4) 2D time-history; (5) three-dimensional (3D) static analysis; and (6) 3D time-history. Specific IAB responses evaluated for the comparison are: girder axial force and moment, pile shear, moment, and displacement. The results indicate that the substructure responses predicted by all six analyses are reasonably comparable. However, the superstructure responses predicted by a 2D analysis are significantly different than predictions by a 3D analysis. Both 2D and 3D static analysis predictions tended to form boundaries for 2D and 3D time-history analysis. Therefore, this study concludes that a 3D time-history analysis is preferred for long-term, superstructure response predictions; all 2D and 3D static and time-history analyses are acceptable for substructure response predictions.
Antinociceptive effects of gentiopicroside on neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury in mice: a behavioral and electrophysiological study
Authors: Liu Ning , Li Yu-Xiang , Gong Shuai-Shuai , Du Juan , Liu Gang , Jin Shao-Ju , Zhao Cheng-Jun , Niu Yang , Sun Tao , Yu Jian-Qiang
Published: March 2016

Gentiopicroside (Gent) is promising as an important protective secoiridoid compound against pain. The present study was designed to investigate whether administration of Gent would alleviate the expression of nociceptive behaviors and whether it would cause the relevant electrophysiological changes in a chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain in mice. Gent was administered from the seventh day after surgery for 8 consecutive days. Behavioral parameters and sciatic functional index were assessed immediately before surgery and on days 7, 8, 10, 12, and 14 post-CCI, and electrophysiological activities of sciatic nerve were recorded immediately after the behavioral test on the last day. The present study has shown that administration of Gent (at a dose of 50 and 100 mg/kg) increased behavioral parameters from day 8 compared with the CCI-NS group. Electrophysiological data indicated that CCI caused a significant reduction in nerve conduction velocities in the sciatic nerves and the amplitudes of compound action potential, while Gent at a dose of 50 or 100 mg/kg caused a significant recovery of electrophysiological changes induced by CCI. Our data indicated that Gent has antinociceptive effects on neuropathic pain induced by CCI.
Meiotic recombination is suppressed near the histone-defined border of euchromatin and heterochromatin on chromosome 2L ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Coulthard Alistair B. , Taylor-Kamall Rhodri W. , Hallson Graham , Axentiev Anna , Sinclair Don A. , Honda Barry M. , Hilliker Arthur J.
Published: March 2016

In Drosophila melanogaster, the borders between pericentric heterochromatin and euchromatin on the major chromosome arms have been defined in various ways, including chromatin-specific histone modifications, the binding patterns of heterochromatin-enriched chromosomal proteins, and various cytogenetic techniques. Elucidation of the genetic properties that independently define the different chromatin states associated with heterochromatin and euchromatin should help refine the boundary. Since meiotic recombination is present in euchromatin, but absent in heterochromatin, it constitutes a key genetic property that can be observed transitioning between chromatin states. Using P element insertion lines marked with a su(Hw) insulated mini-white gene, meiotic recombination was found to transition in a region consistent with the H3K9me2 transition observed in ovaries.
Multi-taxa integrated landscape genetics for zoonotic infectious diseases: deciphering variables influencing disease emergence
Authors: Leo Sarah S.T. , Gonzalez Andrew , Millien Virginie
Published: March 2016

Zoonotic disease transmission systems involve sets of species interacting with each other and their environment. This complexity impedes development of disease monitoring and control programs that require reliable identification of spatial and biotic variables and mechanisms facilitating disease emergence. To overcome this difficulty, we propose a framework that simultaneously examines all species involved in disease emergence by integrating concepts and methods from population genetics, landscape ecology, and spatial statistics. Multi-taxa integrated landscape genetics (MTILG) can reveal how interspecific interactions and landscape variables influence disease emergence patterns. We test the potential of our MTILG-based framework by modelling the emergence of a disease system across multiple species dispersal, interspecific interaction, and landscape scenarios. Our simulations showed that both interspecific-dependent dispersal patterns and landscape characteristics significantly influenced disease spread. Using our framework, we were able to detect statistically similar inter-population genetic differences and highly correlated spatial genetic patterns that imply species-dependent dispersal. Additionally, species that were assigned coupled-dispersal patterns were affected to the same degree by similar landscape variables. This study underlines the importance of an integrated approach to investigating emergence of disease systems. MTILG is a robust approach for such studies and can identify potential avenues for targeted disease management strategies.
Concomitant bidirectional transport during peritoneal dialysis can be explained by a structured interstitium
Authors: Stachowska-Pietka Joanna , Waniewski Jacek , Flessner Michael F. , Lindholm Bengt
Published: March 2016

Clinical and animal studies suggest that peritoneal absorption of fluid and protein from dialysate to peritoneal tissue, and to blood and lymph circulation, occurs concomitantly with opposite flows of fluid and protein, i.e., from blood to dialysate. However, until now a theoretical explanation of this phenomenon has been lacking. A two-phase distributed model is proposed to explain the bidirectional, concomitant transport of fluid, albumin and glucose through the peritoneal transport system (PTS) during peritoneal dialysis. The interstitium of this tissue is described as an expandable two-phase structure with phase F (water-rich, colloid-poor region) and phase C (water-poor, colloid-rich region) with fluid and solute exchange between them. A low fraction of phase F is assumed in the intact tissue, which can be significantly increased under the influence of hydrostatic pressure and tissue hydration. The capillary wall is described using the three-pore model, and the conditions in the peritoneal cavity are assumed commencing 3 min after the infusion of glucose 3.86% dialysis fluid. Computer simulations demonstrate that peritoneal absorption of fluid into the tissue, which occurs via phase F at the rate of 1.8 ml/min, increases substantially the interstitial pressure and tissue hydration in both phases close to the peritoneal cavity, whereas the glucose-induced ultrafiltration from blood occurs via phase C at the rate of 15 ml/min. The proposed model delineating the phenomenon of concomitant bidirectional transport through PTS is based on a two-phase structure of the interstitium and provides results in agreement with clinical and experimental data.
The Retrograde Ventriculosinusal Shunt in an Animal Experimental Model of Hydrocephalus
Authors: Gomes Pinto Fernando Campos , Becco Rodrigo , Lopes Alho Eduardo Joaquim , Poli-de-Figueiredo Luiz Francisco , Amaral de Souza Podalyro , Fernandes de Oliveira Matheus , Jacobsen Teixeira Manoel
Published: March 2016

Currently, hydrocephalus treatment is performed mainly with ventriculoperitoneal shunting. This experimental study aims at assessing whether the experimental model of hydrocephalus in dogs is applicable to the laboratory study of the retrograde ventriculosinusal shunt (RVSS). Four mongrel dogs were assessed. After randomization, the animals were divided into two groups: an experimental group that underwent the induction of hydrocephalus/RVSS and a control group, for the measurement of the mean arterial pressure, intracranial pressure and pressure in the superior sagittal sinus (SSS). The controls presented a mean arterial pressure of 68 mm Hg (71 and 65), an intracranial pressure of 163 mm H2O (149.6 and 176.8) and a pressure at the SSS of 40 mm H2O (40 and 40). The kaolin injection into the cisterna magna at a concentration of 0.3 mg/ml was capable of inducing the clinical and radiological mechanism of hydrocephalus (intracranial pressure = 250 mm H2O, pressure at the SSS = 50 mm H2O). The caliber of the SSS was 2.5 ± 1.0 mm. The fact that the SSS caliber of the dog was the same size as the external diameter of the catheter used resulted in the complete obstruction of the SSS when the catheter was inserted. We believe we could design and perform an experimental model to test the RVSS. It is applicable and feasible. The model of hydrocephalus, the surgical apparatus and the scenario were adequate, but the shunt system needs to be proportionally made to the canine anatomy.
Prediction of Small for Gestational Age: Accuracy of Different Sonographic Fetal Weight Estimation Formulas
Authors: Gabbay-Benziv Rinat , Aviram Amir , Bardin Ron , Ashwal Eran , Melamed Nir , Hiersch Liran , Wiznitzer Arnon , Yogev Yariv , Hadar Eran
Published: March 2016

Objective: To compare the accuracy of various sonographic estimated fetal weight (sEFW) formulas for the prediction of small for gestational age (SGA) neonates. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 6,126 fetal biometrical measurements performed within 3 days of delivery. SGA prediction was evaluated for various sEFW formulas by calculating the sensitivity, specificity, positive/negative predictive value (PPV/NPV), likelihood ratio (+LR/-LR), overall accuracy and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Systematic error, random error, proportion of estimates >10% of birth weights, actual and absolute weight differences were compared between SGA and non-SGA neonates. Results: Overall, 638 (10.4%) neonates were SGA. There was considerable variation among formulas in sensitivity (mean ± SD, 62 ± 14.4%; range, 32.4-91.2), PPV (72.5 ± 10.7%; 45.8-95.6) and +LR (24.2 ± 10.9; 7.2-57.3), mild variation in specificity (96.6 ± 2.7%; 87.4-99.4), NPV (94.6 ± 5.3%; 72.2-98.9) and -LR (0.4 ± 0.1; 0.1-0.7) and minimal variation in AUC (mean, 0.93; range, 0.91-0.93). The majority of formulas had a lower accuracy for the SGA neonates, with systematic error and random error ranging from -4.2 to 14.3% and from 8.4 to 12.9% for SGA, and from -8.7 to 16.1% and from 7.2 to 10.5% for non-SGA, respectively. Conclusion: sEFW formulas differ in their accuracy for SGA prediction. In our population, the most accurate formula for SGA prediction was Hadlock's formula utilizing femur length, abdominal and head circumference.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 Concentrations Reflect Sex Differences in Mineral Metabolism and Growth in Early Infancy
Authors: Holmlund-Suila Elisa , Viljakainen Heli , Ljunggren Östen , Hytinantti Timo , Andersson Sture , Mäkitie Outi
Published: March 2016

Background: The role of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) in the regulation of mineral homeostasis in early life is inadequately understood. We aimed to explore the effects of vitamin D supplementation on serum FGF23 and to elucidate longitudinal changes in FGF23, in addition to studying its association with mineral metabolism in early infancy. Methods: Altogether 113 healthy infants received vitamin D3 10, 30 or 40 µg/day from age 0.5 to 3.0 months. Cord blood at birth and capillary blood samples at 3 months were analyzed for serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, phosphate, calcium and intact and C-terminal FGF23. Results: In repeated-measures ANCOVA, intact FGF23 concentration increased with time (p < 0.001) and C-terminal FGF23 decreased (p < 0.001). At 3 months, girls had a higher concentration of intact FGF23 (51 vs. 26 pg/ml, p < 0.001) and a greater increase over time (ΔFGF23 intact 45 vs. 16 pg/ml, p = 0.001) than boys. Vitamin D did not affect serum intact or C-terminal FGF23 concentrations. Girls showed a positive correlation between phosphate and intact FGF23 (p = 0.004), whereas in boys phosphate and C-terminal FGF23 correlated inversely (p = 0.006). Conclusions: A substantial sex-related difference in intact FGF23 concentration exists during early infancy, possibly related to differences in skeletal growth between boys and girls.
Clinical and Microbiological Features and Factors Associated with Fluoroquinolone Resistance in Men with Community-Acquired Acute Bacterial Prostatitis
Authors: Park Min Gu , Cho Min Chul , Cho Sung Yong , Lee Jeong Woo
Published: March 2016

Objectives: To investigate the clinical and microbiological features in the patients with community-acquired acute bacterial prostatitis (CA-ABP), as well as factors that affect fluoroquinolone resistance. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed of 209 patients hospitalized for antibiotic treatment of CA-ABP. We investigated patient age, body mass index, underlying diseases, recurrence, prostate-related factors and results of urine culture examination and antibiotic sensitivity tests. Results: Seventeen patients (8.1%) had fluoroquinolone-resistant bacterial colonies. When we divided the subjects into groups according to the fluoroquinolone resistance, the group with resistant bacteria was significantly older, had larger prostates and had greater residual urine volumes. Bacteria were identified in 127 of 209 patients (60.8%), and the most commonly cultured included Escherichia coli (43.5%). The sensitivity of the cultured bacteria to fluoroquinolones was high compared to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and gentamicin, but similar to cefotaxime. The bacteria were more sensitive to amikacin and imipenem than to fluoroquinolone. The multivariate analysis revealed that prostate volume ≥40 ml (p = 0.024) and residual urine volume >100 ml (p = 0.004) were independent predictive factors for fluoroquinolone resistance. Conclusions: Fluoroquinolone monotherapy might be an effective treatment in CA-ABP. However, combination antibiotic therapy is recommended in cases with prostate volume ≥40 ml or residual urine volume >100 ml, because fluoroquinolone resistance can occur.
Building on what you have learned
Authors: Marcinowski Emily C. , Campbell Julie Marie
Published: March 2016

Object construction involves organizing multiple objects into a unified structure (e.g., stacking blocks into a tower) and may provide infants with unique spatial information. Because object construction entails placing objects in spatial locations relative to one another, infants can acquire information about spatial relations during construction activity. To acquire words representing spatial relations, children must link sensorimotor experience to their language system. It is proposed that the development of construction skills during infancy influences knowledge of words indicating spatial relations at three years. Infants who develop early construction skills are expected to comprehend more words describing spatial relations than infants who develop construction skills later. Infants were tested monthly with seven construction tasks from 10–14 months and were tested at three years for their comprehension of spatial relations words. In addition, both the Preschool Language Scales, 5th edition (PLS-5) (three years) and the Bayley cognitive sub-scale (two years) were assessed to examine whether infants with differing construction skills would perform differently on general language and cognitive abilities in infants, as well as spatial words. “High” constructors understood more spatial relations words than “low” constructors, although there were no differences for general language (PLS-5) or cognitive ability (Bayley cognitive sub-scale). Since infant construction skill did not also relate to general language or cognitive ability, rather only to comprehension of spatial words, object construction activity may uniquely afford opportunities for spatial information, which becomes relevant to the development of spatial words.
Two Canine Papillomaviruses Associated With Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Two Related Basenji Dogs
Authors: Luff J. , Rowland P. , Mader M. , Orr C. , Yuan H.
Published: March 2016

Papillomaviruses (PV) are associated with benign mucosal and cutaneous epithelial proliferations. In dogs, PV-associated pigmented plaques and papillomas can undergo malignant transformation, but this is rare, and most cases of canine squamous cell carcinoma do not arise from PV-induced precursor lesions. We describe herein the progression of pigmented plaques to invasive and metastatic squamous cell carcinoma associated with 2 canine papillomaviruses (CPV) in 2 related Basenji dogs. Immunohistochemistry for PV antigen revealed strong nuclear immunoreactivity within keratinocytes from pigmented plaques from both dogs, consistent with a productive viral infection. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using degenerate primers for the L1 gene revealed PV DNA sequences from 2 different CPVs. In situ hybridization for CPV revealed strong hybridization signals within the pigmented plaques and neoplastic squamous epithelial cells from both dogs. We report here progression of PV-associated pigmented plaques to metastatic squamous cell carcinoma within 2 Basenji dogs associated with 2 different CPVs.
The Selective Use of Rape-Victim Stereotypes to Protect Culturally Similar Perpetrators
Authors: Bongiorno Renata , McKimmie Blake M. , Masser Barbara M.
Published: March 2016

Powerful stereotypes exist about how female rape victims should act. For example, victims are expected to physically resist their attacker and immediately report their assault. In reality, some victims are too shocked to physically resist or too traumatized to immediately go to police. Nevertheless, counterstereotypic-victim behavior can undermine fair prosecution outcomes, especially for acquaintance-rape victims. In the current research, we examined the influence of perceivers’ cultural similarity to the perpetrator, and the stereotypicality of rape-victim behaviour, on victim and perpetrator blame, punishment severity, and guilt likelihood. We varied an acquaintance-rape scenario, to present stereotypical/counterstereotypical rape-victim behaviour, and the cultural similarity/dissimilarity of perpetrators to participants, who were White-Australian women and men, aged between 18 and 74 ( N = 237). In the victim-stereotypic condition, reactions did not vary as a function of perpetrator-cultural similarity. However, in the counterstereotypic-victim condition, culturally similar (compared to culturally dissimilar) perpetrators were considered less guilty and less deserving of punishment. Moderated mediation indicated that the greater leniency shown towards culturally similar perpetrators was explained by increases in victim blame and decreases in perpetrator blame. To decrease bias when prosecuting rape perpetrators, we recommend challenging the selective use of counterstereotypic-victim behaviour to defend culturally similar perpetrators.
Determinants of Total Factor Productivity Growth in Nigeria, 1970–2009
Authors: Akinlo Anthony Enisan , Adejumo Oluwabunmi Opeyemi
Published: March 2016

This article examines the determinants of total factor productivity (TFP) in Nigeria over the period 1970–2009. Using error correction model (ECM), impulse-response functions and variance decompositions, the results show that in the long run, human capital, trade openness and inflation have a significant negative impact on TFP. However, foreign direct investment (FDI) has significant positive effect. In the short run, human capital and openness are positively related to TFP, while FDI and unemployment have negative effect on TFP. The results suggest that policies that enhance quality of education encourage intermediate imports and non-oil exports as well as reduce inflation and unemployment will enhance TFP growth in Nigeria.
The Transformative Potential of Game Spatiality in Service Design
Authors: van Amstel Frederick M. C. , Garde Julia A.
Published: March 2016

Background: Services have tangible and intangible aspects. Services are organized as a system of conceptual ideas (space of possibilities) and are enacted through social and physical arrangements (possibilities of space). Games are employed in service design to expand the space of possibilities with new insights; however, the possibilities of space are sometimes not recognized, experienced, or realized through these games.

Method: Game sessions were organized to support the co-design of three services: medical imaging diagnosis, hospital care, and environmental education/leisure. A case study for each project is provided, with the focus on the spaces produced by the participants’ interactions.

Results: Even as participants were designing services for the future, they realized the possibilities of space in their current services and made use of these soon after the game sessions. Transformative actions initiated in the co-design sessions went beyond play, reaching the work activities that sustain the services.

Conclusions: Games in service design can be insightful as much as transformative. Game spatiality, in particular, can lead participants to make use of the possibilities of space not conceptualized before, which are outside of the space of possibilities.
The longitudinal relation between online and offline political participation among youth at two different developmental stages
Authors: Kim Yunhwan , Russo Silvia , Amnå Erik
Published: March 2016

The role played by the Internet in young people’s political lives has received great research attention. However, two gaps in the literature hinder the drawing of conclusions on how online political participation is related to its offline counterpart. First, although there are multiple hypotheses on the nature of the relationship, they have not been compared in any single study. Second, although the relation may differ according to developmental stage, age differences have not been examined. We address these gaps using longitudinal data from two samples of youth at different developmental stages, and test four hypotheses for each sample. It was found, among late adolescents, that online participation serves as a gateway to offline participation. However, among young adults, offline participation spills over into online participation. These findings indicate the positive potential of online political participation in youth’s political lives, and highlight the need to focus on their developmental stages.
International law, constitutional law, and public support for torture
Authors: Chilton Adam S , Versteeg Mila
Published: March 2016

The human rights movement has spent considerable energy developing and promoting the adoption of both international and domestic legal prohibitions against torture. Empirical scholarship testing the effectiveness of these prohibitions using observational data, however, has produced mixed results. In this paper, we explore one possible mechanism through which these prohibitions may be effective: dampening public support for torture. Specifically, we conducted a survey experiment to explore the impact of international and constitutional law on public support for torture. We found that a bare majority of respondents in our control group support the use of torture, and that presenting respondents with arguments that this practice violates international law or constitutional law did not produce a statistically significant decrease in support. These findings are consistent with prior research suggesting, even in democracies, that legal prohibitions on torture have been ineffective.
Impact of Cadmium Polluted Groundwater on Human Health
Authors: Burke Farkhunda , Hamza Salma , Naseem Shahid , Nawaz-ul-Huda Syed , Azam Muhammad , Khan Imran
Published: March 2016

A number of serious studies have been conducted to decipher relationships between geological environment, potable/drinking water, and diseases as they were considered to have triggered suffering due to diseases among people. Chronic anemia can be caused by prolonged exposure to drinking water contaminated with cadmium (Cd). Under such circumstances, accumulation of Cd is manifested in the kidney, resulting in cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study is to present the impact of Cd-contaminated drinking water on human health among the residents of villages in Winder. Collection of about 48 groundwater samples at an average distance of 1 to 2 km between the sampling sites has enabled a sufficient geological representation of distribution of minerals and elements in the samples. Concentration and comparison of Cd in the study area sample sites reveal highest values (24.2-30.0 ppb) in the northeastern and southeastern sectors, covering parts of all three geological areas of Bela Ophiolite of Cretaceous age. Conducted questionnaire surveys provided relevance between cause and effect nature of Cd bearing diseases among which kidney, joint, and night blindness are more prominent. Due to this phenomena, toxic risk of Cd in drinking water was high as per calculated health hazard indices. The use of this water by the villagers may cause health problems and disorders among the inhabitants of the area.
Effects of Stakeholder Conflicts on Community Development Projects in Kenyase
Authors: Gyan Charles , Ampomah Abena Oforiwaa
Published: March 2016

This article explores the effects of stakeholder conflicts on community development. In particular, it analyzes the negative repercussions these conflicts have on projects drawing on primary research in Kenyase, one of the major mining communities in Ghana where community development processes are more structured. Using qualitative research methods, the research sought evidence of the negative effects stakeholder conflicts have on projects. This study revealed that financial and technical investments without adequate social capital have the potential of retarding community development projects. It was therefore recommended that project managers pay attention to stakeholder relationships in project initiation, design, and implementation.
Iron Deficiency Is Common During Remission in Children With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Wikholm Emma , Malmborg Petter , Forssberg Maria , Hederos Carl-Axel , Wikström Sverre
Published: March 2016

The aim was to study prevalence of iron deficiency in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) during remission. In addition, there was an observational evaluation of hematological response to oral iron. A population-based retrospective study including 90 Swedish children (median 13 years) with IBD was performed. Patient records covered in median 25 months. Iron deficiency was present in 70/77 children (91%) in which iron status could be assessed. In clinical and biochemical remission, iron deficiency was found in 57/67 (85%) of children, and 23 (34%) of them had iron deficiency anemia. Thirty-six iron-deficient children were prescribed oral iron supplementation and 32 (89%) improved hemoglobin levels over 6 months. In conclusion, iron deficiency is common during clinical remission in children with IBD, even in cohorts with low prevalence of anemia. Therefore, regular biochemical screening for iron deficiency is warranted during all stages of disease, irrespective of symptoms and inflammatory blood markers.
An essential remark on fixed point results on multiplicative metric spaces
Authors: Agarwal Ravi P , Karapınar Erdal , Samet Bessem
Published: March 2016

In this short note, we announce that all the presented fixed point results in the setting of multiplicative metric spaces can be derived from the corresponding existing results in the context of standard metric spaces in the literature.
A coupled fixed point theorem and application to fractional hybrid differential problems
Authors: Bashiri Tahereh , Vaezpour Seyed Mansour , Park Choonkil
Published: March 2016

This paper is devoted to the study of the existence of solution to the following system of fractional hybrid differential equations: $$ \textstyle\begin{cases} D^{p} [x(t)- f(t,x(t))] = g (t,y(t),I^{\alpha}(y(t))) ,\quad \mbox{a.e. }t \in J, \\ D^{p} [y(t)- f(t,y(t))] = g (t,x(t),I^{\alpha}(x(t))) ,\quad \mbox{a.e. }t \in J, 0 < p < 1, \alpha>0, \\ x (0) = 0,\qquad y (0) = 0, \end{cases} $$

{

D
p

[
x
(
t
)
−
f
(
t
,
x
(
t
)
)
]
=
g
(
t
,
y
(
t
)
,

I
α

(
y
(
t
)
)
)
,

a.e. 
t
∈
J
,

D
p

[
y
(
t
)
−
f
(
t
,
y
(
t
)
)
]
=
g
(
t
,
x
(
t
)
,

I
α

(
x
(
t
)
)
)
,

a.e. 
t
∈
J
,
0
<
p
<
1
,
α
>
0
,

x
(
0
)
=
0
,

y
(
0
)
=
0
,

where $D^{\alpha}$

D
α

is the R-L fractional derivative of order α, $J=[0,T]$
J
=
[
0
,
T
]
, $T>0$
T
>
0
, and the functions $f :J\times\mathbb{R} \times\mathbb{R} \rightarrow\mathbb{R}$
f
:
J
×
R
×
R
→
R
, $f(0,0)=0$
f
(
0
,
0
)
=
0
and $g:J \times\mathbb{R} \times\mathbb{R}\rightarrow\mathbb{R}$
g
:
J
×
R
×
R
→
R
satisfy certain conditions.

The proof of the existence theorem is based on a coupled fixed point theorem of Krasnoselskii type, which extends a fixed point theorem of Burton (Appl. Math. Lett. 11:85-88, 1998). Finally, our results are illustrated by a concrete example.
PP2A binds to the LIM domains of lipoma-preferred partner through its PR130/B″ subunit to regulate cell adhesion and migration
Authors: Janssens Veerle , Zwaenepoel Karen , Rossé Carine , Petit Marleen M. R. , Goris Jozef , Parker Peter J.
Published: March 2016

Here, we identify the LIM protein lipoma-preferred partner (LPP) as a binding partner of a specific protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) heterotrimer that is characterised by the regulatory PR130/B″α1 subunit (encoded by PPP2R3A). The PR130 subunit interacts with the LIM domains of LPP through a conserved Zn2+-finger-like motif in the differentially spliced N-terminus of PR130. Isolated LPP-associated PP2A complexes are catalytically active. PR130 colocalises with LPP at multiple locations within cells, including focal contacts, but is specifically excluded from mature focal adhesions, where LPP is still present. An LPP–PR130 fusion protein only localises to focal adhesions upon deletion of the domain of PR130 that binds to the PP2A catalytic subunit (PP2A/C), suggesting that PR130–LPP complex formation is dynamic and that permanent recruitment of PP2A activity might be unfavourable for focal adhesion maturation. Accordingly, siRNA-mediated knockdown of PR130 increases adhesion of HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells onto collagen I and decreases their migration in scratch wound and Transwell assays. Complex formation with LPP is mandatory for these PR130-PP2A functions, as neither phenotype can be rescued by re-expression of a PR130 mutant that no longer binds to LPP. Our data highlight the importance of specific, locally recruited PP2A complexes in cell adhesion and migration dynamics.
Heat dissipation does not suppress an immune response in laboratory mice divergently selected for basal metabolic rate (BMR)
Authors: Książek Aneta , Konarzewski Marek
Published: March 2016

The capacity for heat dissipation (HD) is considered to be one of the most important constraints on rates of energy expenditure in mammals. To date, the significance of this constraint has been tested exclusively under peak metabolic demands, such as during lactation. Here, we used a different set of metabolic stressors, which do not induce maximum energy expenditures and yet are likely to expose the potential constraining effect of HD. We compared the physiological responses of mice divergently selected for high (H-BMR) and low (L-BMR) basal metabolic rate (BMR) to simultaneous exposure to the keyhole limpet haemocyanin (KLH) antigen and high ambient temperature (Ta). At 34°C (and at 23°C, used as a control), KLH challenge resulted in a transient increase in core body temperature (Tb) in mice of both line types (by approximately 0.4°C). Warm exposure did not produce line type-dependent differences in Tb (which was consistently higher by ca. 0.6°C in H-BMR mice across both Tas), nor did it result in the suppression of antibody synthesis. These findings were also supported by the lack of between-line type differences in the mass of the thymus, spleen or lymph nodes. Warm exposure induced the downsizing of heat-generating internal organs (the small intestine, liver and kidneys) and an increase in intrascapular brown adipose tissue (IBAT) mass. However, these changes were similar in scope in both line types. Mounting a humoral immune response in selected mice was therefore not affected by ambient temperature. Thus, a combined metabolic challenge of high Ta and an immune response did not appreciably compromise the capacity to dissipate heat, even in the H-BMR mice.
Extracellular glucose supports lactate production but not aerobic metabolism in cardiomyocytes from both normoglycemic Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and low glycemic short-horned sculpin (Myoxocephalus scorpius)
Authors: Clow Kathy A. , Short Connie E. , Driedzic William R.
Published: March 2016

Fish exhibit a wide range of species specific blood glucose levels. How this relates to glucose utilization is yet to be fully realized. Here we assess glucose transport and metabolism in myocytes isolated from Atlantic cod and short-horned sculpin, species with blood glucose levels of 3.7 and 0.57 mmol l−1, respectively. Glucose metabolism was assessed by the production of 3H2O from [2-3H]-glucose. Glucose metabolism was 3.5-6 fold higher by myocytes from Atlantic cod than short-horned sculpin at the same level of extracellular glucose. In Atlantic cod myocytes glucose metabolism displayed what appears to be a saturable component with respect to extracellular glucose and cytochalasin B inhibited glucose metabolism. These features revealed a facilitated glucose diffusion mechanism that accounts for between 30% and 55% of glucose entry at physiological levels of extracellular glucose. Facilitated glucose diffusion appears to be minimal in myocytes for short-horned sculpin. Glucose entry by simple diffusion occurs in both cell types with the same linear relationship between glucose metabolism and extracellular glucose concentration presumably due to similarities in membrane composition. Oxygen consumption by myocytes incubated in medium containing physiological levels of extracellular glucose (Atlantic cod 5 mmol l−1; short-horned sculpin 0.5 mmol l−1) was similar in both species and was not decreased by cytochalasin B immediately suggesting that these cells have the capability of oxidizing alternative on-board metabolic fuels. Cells produced lactate at low rates but glycogen levels did not change during the incubation period. In cells from both species, glucose utilization assessed by both simple chemical analysis of glucose disappearance from the medium and 3H2O production matched one-half the rate of lactate production and as such extracellular glucose was not available for oxidative metabolism. Overall, extracellular glucose makes only a minor contribution to ATP production but a sustained glycolysis may be necessary to support Ca2+ transport mechanism at either the sarcoplasmic reticulum or the sarcolemmal membrane.
Two isoforms of aquaporin 2 responsive to hypertonic stress in bottlenose dolphin
Authors: Suzuki Miwa , Wakui Hitomi , Itou Takuya , Segawa Takao , Inoshima Yasuo , Maeda Ken , Kikuchi Kiyoshi
Published: March 2016

This study investigated the expression of aquaporin 2 (AQP2) and its newly found alternatively spliced isoform (alternative AQP2) and the functions of these AQP2 isoforms in the cellular hyperosmotic tolerance in the bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus. mRNA sequencing revealed that alternative AQP2 lacks the fourth exon and instead has a longer third exon that includes a part of the original third intron. The portion of the third intron, now part of the coding region of alternative AQP2, is highly conserved among many species of the order Cetacea but not among terrestrial mammals. Semi-quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that AQP2 was expressed only in the kidney, similar to terrestrial mammals. In contrast, alternative AQP2 was expressed in all organs examined, with strong expression in the kidney. In cultured renal cells, expression of both AQP2 isoforms was upregulated by the addition to the medium of NaCl but not by the addition of mannitol, indicating that the expression of both isoforms is induced by hypersalimity but not hypertonicity conditions. Treatment with small interfering RNA for both isoforms, resulted in a decrease in cell viability in hypertonic medium (500 mOsm/kg) when compared to controls. These findings indicate that the expression of alternatively spliced AQP2 is ubiquitous in cetacean species and it may be one of the molecules important for cellular osmotic tolerance throughout the body.
Acute toxicity of methyl parathion on Daphnia laevis (Birge, 1879) and its impact on the activity of farmed fish
Authors: Keppeler Erlei Cassiano , Plese Luís Pedro de Melo , Vieira Lisandro Juno Soares
Published: March 2016

The presente study was carried out to determine the short-term effective concentration 50% toxicity (EC50) of methyl parathion, and to evaluate whether Daphnia laevis has the potential to be used as test organism, in medium M4, using potassium dichromate as reference substance. Twenty neonates, aged less than 24h, were separated into four groups, exposed to concentrations of 5x10-6 mg.L-1, 10x10-6 mg.L-1, 20x10-6 mg.L-1, 40x10-6 mg.L-1, 80x10-6 mg.L-1, plus a zero control, for 24h in a static test. Spearman-Karber method was is adoted for estimating of the median effective concentration (EC50). The EC50 of methyl parathion in Daphnia was 19.4 x 10-6 mg.L-1. Thus, Daphnia laevis, in medium M4, has potential to be used as test organism using as reference substance the potassium dichromate.