bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obese ZDF rats fermented resistant starch with effects on gut microbiota but no reduction in abdominal fat
Authors: Goldsmith Felicia , Guice Justin , Page Ryan , Welsh David A. , Taylor Christopher M. , Blanchard Eugene E. , Luo Meng , Raggio Anne M. , Stout Rhett W. , Carvajal‐Aldaz Diana , Gaither Amanda , Pelkman Christine , Ye Jianping , Martin Roy J. , Geaghan James , Durham Holiday A. , Coulon Diana , Keenan Michael J.
Published: May 2016

Scope

To determine if whole‐grain (WG) flour with resistant starch (RS) will produce greater fermentation than isolated RS in obese Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) rats, and whether greater fermentation results in different microbiota, reduced abdominal fat, and increased insulin sensitivity.

Methods and results

This study utilized four groups fed diets made with either isolated digestible control starch, WG control flour (6.9% RS), isolated RS‐rich corn starch (25% RS), or WG corn flour (25% RS). ZDF rats fermented RS and RS‐rich WG flour to greatest extent among groups. High‐RS groups had increased serum glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) active. Feeding isolated RS showed greater Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes phyla among groups, and rats consuming low RS diets possessed more bacteria in Lactobacillus genus. However, no differences in abdominal fat were observed, but rats with isolated RS had greatest insulin sensitivity among groups.

Conclusions

Data demonstrated ZDF rats (i) possess a microbiota that fermented RS, and (ii) WG high‐RS fermented better than purified RS. However, fermentation and microbiota changes did not translate into reduced abdominal fat. The defective leptin receptor may limit ZDF rats from responding to increased GLP‐1 and different microbiota for reducing abdominal fat, but did not prevent improved insulin sensitivity.
Epigallocatechin gallate inhibits urate crystals‐induced peritoneal inflammation in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Jhang Jhih‐Jia , Lu Chi‐Cheng , Yen Gow‐Chin
Published: May 2016

Gouty arthritis is a type of monosodium urate (MSU) crystals‐induced inflammation in the articular tissue and shows the increased levels of neutrophil infiltration and IL‐1β secretion. MSU is capable of activating IL‐1β through a nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor containing pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a bioactive polyphenol in green tea with potent antioxidant activity, is effective to prevent rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. However, it remains unclear whether EGCG improves gouty inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of EGCG on MSU‐induced inflammation and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. C57BL/6 mice were received subcutaneous injection or oral gavage of EGCG before the intraperitoneal injection of MSU. The results demonstrated that EGCG inhibited MSU‐induced neutrophil infiltration and IL‐1β secretion. Furthermore, EGCG decreased MSU‐triggered neutrophil cytosolic factor 1 and NLRP3 protein expression, limiting pro‐inflammatory mediator secretion such as IL‐1β, IL‐6, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, and serum amyloid A. In addition, EGCG treatment suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation in MSU‐challenged THP‐1 monocytes. These findings indicate that EGCG treatment ameliorates MSU‐induced inflammation, suggesting that EGCG exerts anti‐inflammatory effect against MSU‐induced acute gout attack.
β‐Caryophyllene attenuates palmitate‐induced lipid accumulation through AMPK signaling by activating CB2 receptor in human HepG2 hepatocytes
Authors: Kamikubo Ryosuke , Kai Kenji , Tsuji‐Naito Kentaro , Akagawa Mitsugu
Published: May 2016

Scope

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is currently the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, characterized by excessive hepatic lipid accumulation without significant ethanol consumption. We have performed a screening for medicinal foods that inhibit hepatocytic lipid accumulation through activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is a critical regulator of the hepatic lipid metabolism.

Methods and results

We found that clove (Syzygium aromaticum), which is commonly used as a spice, markedly inhibits palmitate‐inducible lipid accumulation in human HepG2 hepatocytes. Analyses of the clove extracts found that β‐caryophyllene, an orally‐active cannabinoid, is the principal suppressor of the lipid accumulation, and stimulates the phosphorylation of AMPK and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1). Our data also showed that β‐caryophyllene prevents the translocation of sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1c) into the nucleus and forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1) into the cytoplasm through AMPK signaling, and consequently, induces a significant downregulation of fatty acid synthase (FAS) and upregulation of adipose triglyceride lipase, respectively. Moreover, we demonstrated that the β‐caryophyllene‐induced activation of AMPK could be mediated by the cannabinoid type 2 receptor‐dependent Ca2+ signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that β‐caryophyllene has the potential efficacy in preventing and ameliorating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and its associated metabolic disorders.
Morus alba extract modulates blood pressure homeostasis through eNOS signaling
Authors: Carrizzo Albino , Ambrosio Mariateresa , Damato Antonio , Madonna Michele , Storto Marianna , Capocci Luca , Campiglia Pietro , Sommella Eduardo , Trimarco Valentina , Rozza Francesco , Izzo Raffaele , Puca Annibale A. , Vecchione Carmine
Published: May 2016

Scope

Morus alba is a promising phytomedicine cultivated in oriental countries that is extensively used to prevent and treat various cardiovascular problems. To date, despite its beneficial effects, the molecular mechanisms involved remain unclear. Thus, we investigate the vascular and haemodynamic effects of Morus alba extract in an experimental model focusing our attention on the molecular mechanisms involved.

Methods and results

Through vascular reactivity studies, we demonstrate that Morus alba extract evokes endothelial vasorelaxation through a nitric oxide‐dependent pathway. Our molecular analysis highlights an increase in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation. In vivo administration of Morus alba extract reduces blood pressure levels exclusively in wild‐type mice, whereas it fails to evoke any haemodynamic effects in eNOS‐deficient mice. Molecular analyses revealed that its beneficial action on vasculature is mediated by the activation of two important proteins that act as stress sensors and chaperones: PERK and heat shock protein 90. Finally, Morus alba extract exerts antihypertensive action in an experimental model of arterial hypertension.

Conclusion

Through its action on eNOS signaling, Morus alba extract could act as a food supplement for the regulation of cardiovascular system, mainly in clinical conditions characterized by eNOS dysfunction, such as arterial hypertension.
A note on functional a posteriori estimates for elliptic optimal control problems
Authors: Wolfmayr Monika
Published: May 2016

In this work, new results on functional type a posteriori estimates for elliptic optimal control problems with control constraints are presented. More precisely, we derive new, sharp, guaranteed, and fully computable lower bounds for the cost functional in addition to the already existing upper bounds. Using both, the lower and the upper bounds, we arrive at two‐sided estimates for the cost functional. We prove that these bounds finally lead to sharp, guaranteed and fully computable upper estimates for the discretization error in the state and the control of the optimal control problem. First numerical tests are presented confirming the efficiency of the a posteriori estimates derived. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 33: 403–424, 2017
Up‐regulation of miR‐455‐5p by the TGF‐β–SMAD signalling axis promotes the proliferation of oral squamous cancer cells by targeting UBE2B
Authors: Cheng Chao‐Min , Shiah Shine‐Gwo , Huang Chien‐Chang , Hsiao Jenn‐Ren , Chang Jang‐Yang
Published: May 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the tumourigenesis of various cancers by regulating their downstream targets. To identify the changes of miRNAs in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), we investigated the expression profiles of miRNAs in 40 pairs of OSCC specimens and their matched non‐tumour epithelial tissues. Our data revealed higher miR‐455‐5p expression in the tumour tissues than in the normal tissues; the expression was also higher in oral cancer cell lines than in normal keratinocyte cell lines. MiR‐455‐5p knockdown reduced both the anchorage‐independent growth and the proliferative ability of oral cancer cells, and these factors increased in miR‐455‐5p‐overexpressing cells. Furthermore, by analysing the array data of patients with cancer and cell lines, we identified ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme E2B (UBE2B) as a target of miR‐455‐5p, and further validated this using 3′‐untranslated region luciferase reporter assays and western blot analysis. We also demonstrated that UBE2B suppression rescued the impaired growth ability of miR‐455‐5p‐knockdown cells. Furthermore, we observed that miR‐455‐5p expression was regulated, at least in part, by the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) pathway through the binding of SMAD3 to specific promoter regions. Notably, miR‐455‐5p expression was associated with the nodal status, stage, and overall survival in our patients, suggesting that miR‐455‐5p is a potential marker for predicting the prognosis of patients with oral cancer. In conclusion, we reveal that miR‐455‐5p expression is regulated by the TGF‐β‐dependent pathway, which subsequently leads to UBE2B down‐regulation and contributes to oral cancer tumourigenesis. Copyright © 2016 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Overexpression of RANKL in osteoblasts: a possible mechanism of susceptibility to bone disease in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Delion Martial , Braux Julien , Jourdain Marie‐Laure , Guillaume Christine , Bour Camille , Gangloff Sophie , Pimpec‐Barthes Françoise Le , Sermet‐Gaudelus Isabelle , Jacquot Jacky , Velard Frédéric
Published: May 2016

Bone fragility and loss are a significant cause of morbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), and the lack of effective therapeutic options means that treatment is more often palliative rather than curative. A deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of CF‐related bone disease (CFBD) is necessary to develop new therapies. Defective CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein and chronic inflammation in bone are important components of the CFBD development. The receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) drive the regulation of bone turnover. To investigate their roles in CFBD, we evaluated the involvement of defective CFTR in their production level in CF primary human osteoblasts with and without inflammatory stimulation, in the presence or not of pharmacological correctors of the CFTR. No major difference in cell ultrastructure was noted between cultured CF and non‐CF osteoblasts, but a delayed bone matrix mineralization was observed in CF osteoblasts. Strikingly, resting CF osteoblasts exhibited strong production of RANKL protein, which was highly localized at the cell membrane and was enhanced in TNF (TNF‐α) or IL‐17‐stimulated conditions. Under TNF stimulation, a defective response in OPG production was observed in CF osteoblasts in contrast to the elevated OPG production of non‐CF osteoblasts, leading to an elevated RANKL‐to‐OPG protein ratio in CF osteoblasts. Pharmacological inhibition of CFTR chloride channel conductance in non‐CF osteoblasts replicated both the decreased OPG production and the enhanced RANKL‐to‐OPG ratio. Interestingly, using CFTR correctors such as C18, we significantly reduced the production of RANKL by CF osteoblasts, in both resting and TNF‐stimulated conditions. In conclusion, the overexpression of RANKL and high membranous RANKL localization in osteoblasts are related to defective CFTR, and may worsen bone resorption, leading to bone loss in patients with CF. Targeting osteoblasts with CFTR correctors may represent an effective strategy to treat CFBD. Copyright © 2016 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimentally‐induced anti‐myeloperoxidase vasculitis does not require properdin, MASP‐2 or bone marrow‐derived C5
Authors: Freeley Simon J , Popat Reena J , Parmar Kiran , Kolev Martin , Hunt Beverley J , Stover Cordula M , Schwaeble Willhelm , Kemper Claudia , Robson Michael G
Published: May 2016

Anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody vasculitis is a systemic autoimmune disease with glomerulonephritis and pulmonary haemorrhage as major clinical manifestations. The name reflects the presence of autoantibodies to myeloperoxidase and proteinase‐3, which bind to both neutrophils and monocytes. Evidence of the pathogenicity of these autoantibodies is provided by the observation that injection of anti‐myeloperoxidase antibodies into mice causes a pauci‐immune focal segmental necrotizing glomerulonephritis which is histologically similar to the changes seen on renal biopsy in patients. Previous studies in this model have implicated the alternative pathway of complement activation and the anaphylatoxin C5a. Despite this progress, the factors that initiate complement activation have not been defined. In addition, the relative importance of bone marrow‐derived and circulating C5 is not known. This is of interest given the recently identified roles for complement within leukocytes. We induced anti‐myeloperoxidase vasculitis in mice and confirmed a role for complement activation by demonstrating protection in C3‐deficient mice. We showed that neither MASP‐2‐ nor properdin‐deficient mice were protected, suggesting that alternative pathway activation does not require properdin or the lectin pathway. We induced disease in bone marrow chimaeric mice and found that circulating and not bone marrow‐derived C5 was required for disease. We have therefore excluded properdin and the lectin pathway as initiators of complement activation and this means that future work should be directed at other potential factors within diseased tissue. In addition, in view of our finding that circulating and not bone marrow‐derived C5 mediates disease, therapies that decrease hepatic C5 secretion may be considered as an alternative to those that target C5 and C5a. © 2016 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Influence of a long‐side‐chain‐containing reactive diluent on the structure and mechanical properties of UV‐cured films
Authors: Shen Lu , Wang Ying , Zhao Qiang , Luo Fubin , Chen Junhua , Lu Mangeng , Liang Liyan , Wu Kun , Shi Jun
Published: May 2016

The dimethacrylate reactive diluent (HEMA‐DDSA), a long‐side‐chain‐containing reactive diluent, was prepared by reacting 2‐dodecen‐1‐ylsuccinic anhydride with two equivalents of hydroxyethyl methacrylate. Its structure was characterized by IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy. This new diluent was added into the formulation of UV‐curable epoxy acrylate networks. Results show that the formulation with the addition of HEMA‐DDSA has massively reduced viscosity and shows several attractive properties of epoxy acrylate oligomers. The mechanical resistance of the films is dramatically enhanced with the incorporation of long alkyl groups derived from HEMA‐DDSA, the plastic deformation zone expands, thus decreasing the inner stress of the polymer structure. Moreover, the cured coatings have a higher glass transition temperature as the percentage of HEMA‐DDSA is increased up to 5 wt%. Due to the excellent integrated performance of the polymeric films, HEMA‐DDSA proved to be an effective reactive diluent, which is of potential interest for applications in high performance materials. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Plasticization effects of epoxidized vegetable oils on mechanical properties of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate)
Authors: Garcia‐Garcia Daniel , Ferri Jose M , Montanes Nestor , Lopez‐Martinez Juan , Balart Rafael
Published: May 2016

The effect of various epoxidized vegetable oils as potential plasticizers for poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) was evaluated in terms of changes in mechanical and thermal properties and morphology. PHB is a biodegradable aliphatic polyester obtained from bacterial fermentation. High stiffness and fragility are two of its main drawbacks. To overcome this behaviour, PHB was plasticized with various amounts of two different epoxidized vegetable oils: epoxidized linseed oil (ELO) and epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO). The total ELO and ESBO content varied in the range 5 phr (per hundred resin) to 20 phr and plasticized PHB materials were obtained by melt extrusion and compounding followed by injection moulding. The results show that the plasticizing effect provided by ELO is more efficient than that by ESBO with balanced properties at a concentration of 10 phr ELO. ELO addition leads to an improvement in mechanical ductile properties with a noticeable increase in elongation at break and impact absorbed energy. With regard to thermal properties, the addition of both ELO and ESBO leads to a marked increase in thermal stability of PHB. All these findings suggest that addition of 10 phr ELO leads to optimized PHB formulations with potential uses in technical applications. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Analytical performance of nano‐LC‐SRM using nondepleted human plasma over an 18‐month period
Authors: Song Xiaomin , Amirkhani Ardeshir , Wu Jemma X. , Pascovici Dana , Zaw Thiri , Xavier Dylan , Clarke Stephen J. , Molloy Mark P.
Published: May 2016

A standardized procedure for label‐free nano‐LC‐SRM analysis of 32 high‐medium abundance proteins from nondepleted human plasma was established and SRM data were acquired on 45 separate days for a control sample that was independently prepared on 39 distinct dates over an 18‐month period (542 days). This case study enabled us to assess quantitative variance associated with nano‐LC‐SRM plasma analysis, mimicking experimental conditions that would be experienced with clinical trial biomarker studies. We assessed sample preparation variability attributed to different technicians and sample storage stability. Instrument performance varied over the 18‐month period requiring ion path cleaning, so we assessed the impact of declining performance on specific peptide ion sensitivity and evaluated how various data normalization strategies could compensate for these changes. Our analysis demonstrated that while sample preparation was the main contributor for data variances when MS data were acquired within days, variability in SRM sensitivity was a far greater source of variance when data were acquired over a long period. The overall median multiplexed assay CV was 13% over the 18‐month period. This case study is illustrative of large‐scale plasma biomarker studies using nano‐LC‐SRM over extended periods and highlights aspects of bioanalysis that require careful attention to ensure reliable quantitation.
Development of an Efficient Genome Editing Method by CRISPR/Cas9 in a Fish Cell Line
Authors: Dehler Carola E. , Boudinot Pierre , Martin Samuel A. M. , Collet Bertrand
Published: May 2016

CRISPR/Cas9 system has been used widely in animals and plants to direct mutagenesis. To date, no such method exists for fish somatic cell lines. We describe an efficient procedure for genome editing in the Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha CHSE. This cell line was genetically modified to firstly overexpress a monomeric form of EGFP (cell line CHSE-E Geneticin resistant) and additionally to overexpress nCas9n, a nuclear version of Cas9 (cell line CHSE-EC, Hygromycin and Geneticin resistant). A pre-validated sgRNA was produced in vitro and used to transfect CHSE-EC cells. The EGFP gene was disrupted in 34.6 % of cells, as estimated by FACS and microscopy. The targeted locus was characterised by PCR amplification, cloning and sequencing of PCR products; inactivation of the EGFP gene by deletions in the expected site was validated in 25 % of clones. This method opens perspectives for functional genomic studies compatible with high-throughput screening.
An economic decision model for determining the appropriate level of business process standardization
Authors: Afflerbach Patrick , Bolsinger Manuel , Röglinger Maximilian
Published: May 2016

Business process management (BPM) is an acknowledged source of corporate performance. A well-established element of the BPM toolbox by which organizations intend to tune the performance of their processes is business process standardization (BPS). So far, research on BPS has predominantly taken a descriptive perspective, analyzing how BPS affects different dimensions of process performance (e.g., cost, quality, time, flexibility). Only very few studies capitalize on the mature body of descriptive BPS knowledge to assist in determining an appropriate BPS level for an organization’s processes. Moreover, these studies do not resolve the BPS trade-off, i.e., the partly conflicting effects of BPS on process performance. To address this research problem, we propose a decision model that provides guidance on how to determine an economically appropriate BPS level for a business process. We thereby adopt the design science research (DSR) paradigm and draw from the body of knowledge on BPS as well as value-based management. We evaluated the decision model by discussing its design specification against theory-backed design objectives. We also validated the model’s applicability and usefulness in a real-world case where we applied the decision model and a prototypical implementation to the coverage switching processes of an insurance broker pool company. Finally, we challenged the decision model against the accepted evaluation criteria from the DSR literature.
Brief report: Changes in parent–adolescent joint activities between 2002 and 2014 in the Czech Republic, Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children (HBSC) study
Authors: Vokacova Jana , Badura Petr , Pavelka Jan , Kalman Michal , Hanus Radek
Published: May 2016

Joint family activities (JFA) are linked to healthy adolescent development. The aim of the present study is to report time trends in JFA between 2002 and 2014.

The sample concerned 16 396 adolescents aged 11, 13, and 15 years (48.4% boys) from the 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2014 surveys of the Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children (HBSC) study in the Czech Republic. The overall changes in JFA were evaluated using logistic regression.

Compared with 2002, there was a slight increase in four out of the six selected JFA in 2014. In particular, the likelihood of engaging in joint active activities (sports and walks) increased in the 2002–2014 period. Conversely, nowadays adolescents watch TV with their parents less frequently. Moreover, families today do not eat together as often as in 2002, which might have negative consequences for healthy adolescent development. Adolescents aged 11 get involved in JFA more than their older counterparts.
Cognitive variability—A marker for incident MCI and AD: An analysis for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Authors: Anderson Eric D. , Wahoske Michelle , Huber Mary , Norton Derek , Li Zhanhai , Koscik Rebecca L. , Umucu Emre , Johnson Sterling C. , Jones Jana , Asthana Sanjay , Gleason Carey E. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: May 2016

Introduction

The potential of intra‐individual cognitive variability (IICV) to predict incident mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer's disease (AD) was examined and compared to well‐established neuroimaging and genetic predictors.

Methods

IICV was estimated using four neuropsychological measures for n = 1324 Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) participants who were cognitively healthy or diagnosed with MCI at baseline. IICV was used to predict time to incident MCI or AD, and compared to hippocampal volume loss and APOE ε4 status via survival analysis.

Results

In survival analyses, controlling for age, education, baseline diagonosis, and APOE ε4 status, likelihood ratio tests indicate that IICV is associated with time to cognitive status change in the full sample (P < .0001), and when the sample was restricted to individuals with MCI at baseline (P < .0001).

Discussion

These findings suggest IICV may be a low‐cost, noninvasive alternative to traditional AD biomarkers.
Geografía del género y los espacios de encuentro colonial: una nueva mirada a las narrativas de viaje
Authors: Garcia-Ramon Maria-Dolors
Published: May 2016

Los libros y las narrativas de viaje suponen un rico material para la comprensión de la apropiación intelectual que Europa hizo del “Oriente” en tanto que parte integrante y, a la vez, producto del vasto proceso conocido como colonialismo en el que la geografía estuvo tan profundamente involucrada. En particular, quiero rescatar del olvido las narrativas escritas por viajeras y exploradoras y que también están en la base de la formación de nuestra disciplina. Este texto se divide en tres partes: la primera revisa la recepción crítica de los planteamientos de Edward Said sobre el Orientalismo y la Otredad. La segunda parte se centra en dos viajeras europeas en el mundo árabe a principios del siglo xx, Gertrude Bell e Isabelle Eberhardt. La selección se debe a que una y otra encarnan maneras muy diferentes de enfrentarse a la Otredad con mayúsculas que el mundo del Islam suponía para la Europa de su tiempo. Al final esbozo unas conclusiones comparativas y hago unas reflexiones finales sobre los dos casos presentados.
Apoyo organizacional y empoderamiento como antecedentes de comportamientos empoderados y participación de los empleados
Authors: Román-Calderón Juan Pablo , Krikorian Alicia , Franco Ruiz Camilo , Betancur Gaviria Alejandra
Published: May 2016

El artículo presenta un estudio acerca de algunos antecedentes de los comportamientos empoderados y la participación de los empleados en actividades de desarrollo de personal. El objetivo del estudio es analizar la influencia que el apoyo organizacional y el empoderamiento psicológico ejercen sobre los comportamientos empoderados. En el estudio participaron voluntariamente los empleados de 3 empresas maquiladoras del departamento de Antioquia (Colombia). Para el análisis de datos cuantitativos se utilizó la modelación por ecuaciones estructurales. Los resultados de los análisis señalan que el apoyo organizacional ejerce una influencia indirecta positiva sobre la participación en actividades de desarrollo de empleados y sobre los comportamientos proactivos. Adicionalmente, el empoderamiento actúa como mediador de dicha relación. En consecuencia, se recomienda la promoción de climas organizacionales caracterizados por el apoyo organizacional y el empoderamiento.
The frontier of RNA metamorphosis and ribosome signature in neocortical development
Authors: Kraushar Matthew L. , Popovitchenko Tatiana , Volk Nicole L. , Rasin Mladen‐Roko
Published: May 2016

More than a passive effector of gene expression, mRNA translation (protein synthesis) by the ribosome is a rapidly tunable and dynamic molecular mechanism. Neurodevelopmental disorders are associated with abnormalities in mRNA translation, protein synthesis, and neocortical development; yet, we know little about the molecular mechanisms underlying these abnormalities. Furthermore, our understanding of regulation of the ribosome and mRNA translation during normal brain development is only in its early stages. mRNA translation is emerging as a key driver of the rapid and timed regulation of spatiotemporal gene expression in the developing nervous system, including the neocortex. In this review, we focus on the regulatory role of the ribosome in neocortical development, and construct a current understanding of how ribosomal complex specificity may contribute to the development of the neocortex. We also present a microarray analysis of ribosomal protein‐coding mRNAs across the neurogenic phase of neocortical development, in addition to the dynamic enrichment of these mRNAs in actively translating neocortical polysomal ribosomes. Understanding the multivariate control of mRNA translation by ribosomal complex specificity will be critical to reveal the intricate mechanisms of normal brain development and pathologies of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Cognitive outcome in epileptic patients in a tertiary care centre in Kolkata, India
Authors: Das Gautam , Saha Piya , Mukhopadhyay Pritha , Saha Shankar
Published: May 2016

Objective The objective of the study is to assess the diverse cognitive dysfunctions in epileptic patients.

Methods Generalized tonic–clonic seizure (GTCS) and complex partial seizure (CPS) patients and those control matched and assessed for their IQ were undertaken for the present study. ANOVA test was used to assess the differences between GTCS and CPS with the control.

Results GTCS and CPS exhibit lower scores than the control. In number cancellation task, they are at par. GTCS performed poorer than CPS.

Conclusion Epileptic group showed impairment in working memory function, visuo-spatial skill, processing speed, visuo-perceptual attainment and reasoning ability. The deficit is more pervasive in GTCS group.
Cervical cancer screening programs and guidelines in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Olson Brody , Gribble Beth , Dias Jasmyni , Curryer Cassie , Vo Kha , Kowal Paul , Byles Julie
Published: May 2016

Background

Screening reduces cervical cancer incidence and mortality.

Objective

To describe cervical cancer epidemiology and screening guidelines in six low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) participating in the Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE).

Search strategy

Incidence, mortality, and screening‐rate data were obtained for six LMICs and three higher‐income comparator countries (Australia, USA, and UK). SCOPUS and PubMed were used to identify literature published after 2000 in English, using several screening‐linked terms.

Selection Criteria

Literature describing the use of cervical cancer screening guidelines in China, Ghana, India, Mexico, Russia, and South Africa were included.

Data collection and analysis

Incidence, mortality trends, and screening rates were graphed and screening recommendations were summarized.

Main Results

Higher rates of cervical cancer incidence, mortality, and 5‐year prevalence were found in LMICs compared with the comparator countries. LMICs with absent or newly implemented screening guidelines had the lowest rates of crude and effective cervical cancer screening, with high cancer incidence and mortality. Countries with established guidelines had higher screening rates and lower disease burden. Cost, inadequate knowledge, geographical location, and cultural views were common barriers to effective screening coverage.

Conclusion

Work must continue to improve the implementation of affordable, relevant, and achievable methods to improve screening coverage in LMICs.
Causes and avoidable factors in maternal death due to cesarean‐related hemorrhage in South Africa
Authors: Maswime Salome , Buchmann Eckhart
Published: May 2016

Objective

To describe risk factors, clinical events, and avoidable factors in cases of maternal death due to bleeding during and after cesarean delivery.

Methods

A retrospective study was undertaken of the clinical records of women who delivered in seven hospitals in Johannesburg, South Africa, between January 2013 and December 2014. Maternal deaths due to cesarean‐related hemorrhage during or within 42 days of cesarean delivery at 24 weeks or more were selected. Case records were audited using quantitative techniques to determine the events leading up to death.

Results

There were 123 251 deliveries and 17 maternal deaths due to bleeding during or after cesarean (3.2 deaths per 10 000 deliveries). Risk factors included previous cesarean delivery, preoperative anemia, and placental abruption. Uterine atony and surgical trauma were the main causes of bleeding. Five (29%) women died before the cause of bleeding was found. Avoidable factors included delays in the recognition and management of shock. Thirteen (76%) women died within 48 hours of the cesarean procedure.

Conclusion

Deaths due to bleeding during and after cesarean have multifactorial causation. Maternal healthcare systems must be strengthened, with attention to the knowledge and skills of health workers. This requires increased clinical vigilance, a rapid effective response to obstetric hemorrhage and shock, and overall health system strengthening.
Microinfarcts are common and strongly related to dementia in the oldest‐old: The 90+ study
Authors: Corrada María M. , Sonnen Joshua A. , Kim Ronald C. , Kawas Claudia H.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

We estimated the prevalence of microinfarcts and their association with dementia in a cohort of oldest‐old participants.

Methods

Participants were from The 90+ Study, a population‐based study of people 90 years and older. Dementia diagnoses were assigned postmortem during a consensus conference. Microinfarcts were evaluated in six brain regions.

Results

At death, the 213 participants were on average 97 years old, 69% were women, and 52% had dementia. Of the participants, 51% had microinfarcts and 17% had 3+ microinfarcts. The odds ratio (OR) for dementia was similar for 3+ microinfarcts (OR = 4.75, P < .01) and tangle stage V–VI (OR = 4.70, P < .001). Only microinfarcts in cortical regions (other than occipital) were associated to dementia.

Discussion

In this oldest‐old cohort, microinfarcts are common and contribute independently and similarly in magnitude to dementia as tangles. As risk factors for microinfarcts and other dementing pathologies are likely to differ, identifying these factors is crucial to developing prevention strategies for dementia in the oldest‐old.
Effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Ziziphus jujuba on acetic acid induced ulcerative colitis in male rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Tanideh Nader , Jamshidzadeh Akram , Ghanbari Saghesloo Ali , Rahmanifar Farhad , Mokhtari Maral , Koohi-Hosseinabadi Omid , Omidi Mahmood , Najibi Asma
Published: May 2016

Objective To investigate the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Ziziphus jujuba on the histopathological, tissue oxidative stress and inflammation plus to antioxidant pathways of colon tissue in rat with induced Ulcerative colitis.

Materials and methods Ulcerative colitis was induced in 80 rats those divided into 8 equal groups. Group 1 and 2 were negative controls receiving 1 mL/day of normal saline in enema and oral; group 3 and 4 as positive control 1 and 2 received 10 mg/kg of intra-colonic asacol and oral mesalazine; groups 5 and 6 received 20% and 40% of hydroalcoholic extract of Z. jujuba trans-rectally; group 7 and 8 received 1500 and 3000 mg/kg of hydroalcoholic extract of Z. jujuba orally, respectively. After 7 days, animals were evaluated for colon tissue histopathology, levels of malondialdehyde and IL-1β, and activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and myeloperoxidase in colon tissue.

Results Hydroalcoholic extract of Z. jujuba in both forms of trans-rectal and oral administration especially in the higher doses could result into a more healing effect in damaged colonic tissue, more reduce glutathione peroxidase and IL-1β level. Also, these two doses (gel 40% and oral 3000 mg/kg) could more decrease the myeloperoxidase activity and stimulate superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities. Also, gel 40% in transrectal administration was more potent than administration 3000 mg/kg in oral.

Conclusion The results of the present study indicated that Z. jujube may be considered as a treatment of choice for Ulcerative colitis especially in gel form and also in dose-dependent pattern.
Ambiguity, bureaucracy and certainty: The ABCs of enabling water self-sufficiency
Authors: Leong Ching , Qian Neng
Published: May 2016

Ambiguity has often been taken as the bete noir of policy implementation, with policy intent stymied by unclear goals and lack of clarity about processes. This paper argues that, given sufficient apparent certainty about strategic intents, ambiguity can actually be an enabling factor that allows for quick adaptations. It goes do in three ways – first, ambiguity allows the creation of faint paths that are overwritten in the light of new decisions; second and relatedly, this enables the bureaucracy to take more risks, in light of the relatively low sunk costs; third, ambiguity allows for experiments with fuzzy parameters of success, which contributes to innovation. In all three, the role of learning is crucial.

This thesis of ambiguity as enabler of learning by bureaucrats is tested in the case of water security in Singapore, which faced economic, technology and security ambiguities. There is a bureaucratic tendency to react to ambiguity with a search for more information and clarity. However because of the ambiguity-enabled learning, Singapore through a very roundabout and messy implementation process, was able to overcome a key strategic vulnerability.
Adaptation Pathways and Real Options Analysis: An approach to deep uncertainty in climate change adaptation policies
Authors: Buurman Joost , Babovic Vladan
Published: May 2016

Governments face the daunting task of developing policies and making investment decisions for climate change adaptation in an environment that consist of complex, interlinked systems with manifold uncertainties. Instead of responding to surprises and making decisions on ad hoc basis, a structured approach to deal with complex systems and uncertainties can provide indispensable support for policy making. This contribution proposes a structured approach for designing climate adaptation policies based on the concepts of Adaptation Pathways, Adaptive Policy Making, and Real Options Analysis. Such an approach results in incorporation of flexibility that allows change over time in response to how the future unfolds, what is learned about the system, and changes in societal preferences. The approach is illustrated by looking at drainage policies and measures to address flooding in Singapore.
Paleotsunamis from the central Kuril Islands segment of the Japan-Kuril-Kamchatka subduction zone
Authors: MacInnes Breanyn , Kravchunovskaya Ekaterina , Pinegina Tatiana , Bourgeois Joanne
Published: May 2016

Paleotsunami records from the central Kuril Island segment of the Japan-Kuril-Kamchatka subduction zone indicate that the region has been frequently inundated by tsunamis. As many as 20e22 tsunami deposits are recognized on Matua Island for the past 3300 yr with an average tsunami recurrence interval of ~150 yr, and 34e36 tsunami deposits are evident on Simushir Island for the past 2350 yr with an average recurrence of ~65 yr. These intervals are short, but comparable to other segments of the Japan-Kuril-Kamchatka subduction zone. Results from all survey locations reveal shortening recurrence intervals toward the present, especially for the last 600 yr, indicating a possible preservation bias. On Simushir, tsunamis at least 11 m higher than the modern tsunamis in 2006 and 2007 occurred every ~300 yr on average. On Matua, tsunamis with slightly farther inundation than the 2006 and 2007 tsunamis occurred every ~215 yr while those with at least 100 m farther inland inundation occur every ~750 yr. Our paleotsunami record almost certainly includes tsunamis that are not from great subduction zone earthquakes in the central Kuril segment: we expect the Matua record includes volcanic tsunamis and the Simushir record includes tsunamis from the southern Kuril segment.
Assisted conception and the risk of CHD: a case–control study
Authors: Schofield Susie J. , Doughty Victoria L. , van Stiphout Nicole , Franklin Rodney C. G. , Johnson Mark R. , Daubeney Piers E. F. , Cullinan Paul
Published: May 2016

Epidemiological studies suggest a higher prevalence of congenital malformations in children conceived through assisted reproductive technologies. There are a few studies that address CHD specifically and most have examined data from registries. We examined the relationship between CHD and assisted conception using data collected in a specialist paediatric cardiac service in the United Kingdom.

Between April, 2010 and July, 2011, the parents of children attending paediatric cardiology clinics at the Royal Brompton Hospital, London, were invited to complete a questionnaire that enquired about the nature of their child’s conception, the route for their original referral, and a number of potential confounding exposures. “Cases” were defined as children diagnosed with one or more carefully defined CHDs and “controls” as those with normal hearts.

Of 894 new attendees with complete data, half of them were cases (n=410, 45.9%). The overall prevalence of assisted conception was 5.4% (n=44). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated a non-significant increase in the crude odds for the use of assisted reproduction (odds ratio 1.21, 95% confidence interval 0.66–2.22) in this group. After adjustment for gestation, parity, year of birth, and maternal age, the odds ratio reduced (odds ratio 0.95, 95% confidence interval 0.48–1.88). Increased rates of assisted conception were observed in a number of CHD subgroups, although no significant differences were found.

These findings do not suggest an overall association between CHD and assisted reproduction in this population.
Chemical Boosts Ozone Production over Southern China
Authors: Cook Terri
Published: May 2016

The presence of nitryl chloride in polluted urban air can enhance the production of ozone by up to 41%, according to a new modeling study constrained by ground-based measurements.
Can Solar and Space Physics Students Find Research Careers?
Authors: Higginson Aleida
Published: May 2016

Research shows that 80% of graduate students who received their Ph.D. between 2001 and 2009 continued to publish for at least 3 years, and 60% are still publishing.
Science Academies Urge Stronger Action on Disaster Resilience
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: May 2016

A separate statement calls for nurturing new scientists, promoting science education, and supporting women and minorities in science.
As Mars Gets Close, So Does a Blitz of Red Planet Dramas
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: May 2016

NASA’s first Mars program director advised the creators of the new film The Space Between Us, which opens this summer, on the science related to Mars colonization.
NLRP3 Deficiency Reduces Macrophage Interleukin-10 Production and Enhances the Susceptibility to Doxorubicin-induced Cardiotoxicity
Authors: Kobayashi Motoi , Usui Fumitake , Karasawa Tadayoshi , Kawashima Akira , Kimura Hiroaki , Mizushina Yoshiko , Shirasuna Koumei , Mizukami Hiroaki , Kasahara Tadashi , Hasebe Naoyuki , Takahashi Masafumi
Published: May 2016

NLRP3 inflammasomes recognize non-microbial danger signals and induce release of proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1β, leading to sterile inflammation in cardiovascular disease. Because sterile inflammation is involved in doxorubicin (Dox)-induced cardiotoxicity, we investigated the role of NLRP3 inflammasomes in Dox-induced cardiotoxicity. Cardiac dysfunction and injury were induced by low-dose Dox (15 mg/kg) administration in NLRP3-deficient (NLRP3−/−) mice but not in wild-type (WT) and IL-1β−/− mice, indicating that NLRP3 deficiency enhanced the susceptibility to Dox-induced cardiotoxicity independent of IL-1β. Although the hearts of WT and NLRP3−/− mice showed no significant difference in inflammatory cell infiltration, macrophages were the predominant inflammatory cells in the hearts, and cardiac IL-10 production was decreased in Dox-treated NLRP3−/− mice. Bone marrow transplantation experiments showed that bone marrow-derived cells contributed to the exacerbation of Dox-induced cardiotoxicity in NLRP3−/− mice. In vitro experiments revealed that NLRP3 deficiency decreased IL-10 production in macrophages. Furthermore, adeno-associated virus-mediated IL-10 overexpression restored the exacerbation of cardiotoxicity in the NLRP3−/− mice. These results demonstrated that NLRP3 regulates macrophage IL-10 production and contributes to the pathophysiology of Dox-induced cardiotoxicity, which is independent of IL-1β. Our findings identify a novel role of NLRP3 and provided new insights into the mechanisms underlying Dox-induced cardiotoxicity.
CNT-grafted glass fibers as a smart tool for epoxy cure monitoring, UV-sensing and thermal energy harvesting in model composites
Authors: Tzounis L. , Liebscher M. , Tzounis A. , Petinakis E. , Paipetis A. S. , Mäder E. , Stamm M.
Published: May 2016

A ‘hierarchical’ reinforcement of glass fibers (GFs) chemically grafted with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) has been utilized for epoxy cure monitoring, UV-sensing, and thermal energy harvesting in model composites.
Performance evaluation of an improved model predictive control with field oriented control as a benchmark
Authors: Zhang Yongchang , Xia Bo , Yang Haitao
Published: May 2016

Compared to the widespread modulation‐based control strategies such as field oriented control (FOC), MPC eliminates the use of internal current control loops and modulation block, hence featuring very quick dynamic response. Furthermore, MPC well respects the discrete nature of power converters by evaluating the influence of each voltage vector on the concerned control variables, which are usually combined into a cost function, hence featuring simple concept. In spite of the merits of quick response and conceptual simplicity, it seems that MPC may be inferior to FOC in terms of steady‐state performance, especially in the low speed range, which is usually a drawback of MPC‐branched methods. This study proposes an improved two‐vectors‐based MPC (MPC2) and compares it to the well‐established FOC. A detailed experimental study of both methods is presented, including steady‐state performance, dynamic response, low speed operation and control complexity. Very promising results are obtained in MPC2 by providing better steady‐state performance and much quicker response than FOC under the condition of similar average switching frequency. The results prove that MPC2 is a powerful alternative to FOC and may find wide applications in the near future.
Steady‐state performance evaluations of three‐phase brushless asynchronous excitation system for aircraft starter/generator
Authors: Zhang Zan , Liu Weiguo , Zhao Dongdong , Mao Shuai , Meng Tao , Jiao Ningfei
Published: May 2016

This study proposes a novel mathematical model based on excitation system output equations (ESOEs) to evaluate the steady‐state performance of the three‐phase brushless asynchronous excitation system (BAES) of a wound‐field synchronous aircraft starter–generator system. The steady‐state performance could be used to evaluate the field current output capabilities of the BAES and provide a reference for the control schema of the BAES. However, the BAES has unknown multivariable non‐linear characteristics, which give rise to difficulty in modelling the steady‐state performance. Meanwhile, without closed‐loop control of the main exciter stator current, the traditional methods fail to efficiently calculate the required excitation voltage and frequency for a desired field current. Steady‐state performances are achieved for numerous discrete states with tedious simulations. This study develops the mathematical model of the ESOEs, which can be used to express the non‐linear relationships among the main generator field current, main exciter (ME) rotor speed, ME excitation voltage, and frequency. The field current output capabilities could be evaluated in a time‐efficient manner by solving these ESOEs. The proposed mathematical model and theoretical findings are verified by experimental results.