bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Wearing Compression Stockings on Recovery After Mild Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage
Authors: Bieuzen François , Brisswalter Jeanick , Easthope Christopher , Vercruyssen Fabrice , Bernard Thierry , Hausswirth Christophe
Published: February 2014

Background:

Compression garments are increasingly popular in long-distance running events where they are used to limit cumulative fatigue and symptoms associated with mild exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD). However, the effective benefits remain unclear.

Objective:

This study examined the effect of wearing compression stockings (CS) on EIMD indicators. Compression was applied during or after simulated trail races performed at competition pace in experienced off-road runners.

Methods:

Eleven highly trained male runners participated in 3 simulated trail races (15.6 km: uphill section 6.6 km, average gradient 13%, and downhill section 9.0 km, average gradient –9%) in a randomized crossover trial. The effect of wearing CS while running or during recovery was tested and compared with a control condition (ie, run and recovery without CS; non- CS). Indicators of muscle function, muscle damage (creatine kinase; CK), inflammation (interleukin-6; IL-6), and perceived muscle soreness were recorded at baseline (1 h before warm-up) and 1, 24, and 48 h after the run.

Results:

Perceived muscle soreness was likely to be lower when participants wore CS during trail running compared with the control condition (1 h postrun, 82% chance; 24 h postrun, 80% chance). A likely or possibly beneficial effect of wearing CS during running was also found for isometric peak torque at 1 h postrun (70% chance) and 24 h postrun (60% chance) and throughout the recovery period on countermovement jump, compared with non-CS. Possible, trivial, or unclear differences were observed for CK and IL-6 between all conditions.

Conclusion:

Wearing CS during simulated trail races mainly affects perceived leg soreness and muscle function. These benefits are visible very shortly after the start of the recovery period.
A Comparison of Laboratory-Based Kayak Testing Protocols
Authors: Jones Maddison J. , Peeling Peter
Published: February 2014

Purpose:

To compare the differences in peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and lactate threshold (LT2) between the 7 × 4-min incremental step test (7-ST) and the maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD) test protocols in sprint kayak athletes.

Methods:

Nine highly trained kayak athletes performed the 2 laboratory test protocols. The 7-ST involved six 4-min submaximal incremental stages, each separated by a 1-min recovery, before a 4-min all-out effort. The MAOD test involved four 4-min submaximal incremental stages (also with each stage separated by a 1-min recovery), followed by 20-min recovery and a 4-min all-out effort.

Results:

No statistically significant differences in VO2peak were recorded between the 2 protocols (P > .05). However, distance covered, power output, stroke rate, and speed were almost certainly greater in the MAOD test (magnitude-based inference: 99–100% positive), while blood lactate (BLa), heart rate (HR), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were likely lower (magnitude-based inference: 78–92% negative). The derived measures of LT2 (excluding HR) were not different between the 2 protocols.

Conclusion:

The results of this study suggest that both the 7-ST and MAOD test protocols are comparable with regard to the measurement of VO2peak and LT2 in highly trained sprint kayak athletes. However, since differences in the measures of distance traveled, power, stroke rate, HR, BLa, and RPE were reported in the maximal stage of the these 2 test protocols, their interchangeable use in a laboratory setting is not ideal if the data output is to be compared and contrasted over time.
Repeated Sprints, High-Intensity Interval Training, Small-Sided Games: Theory and Application to Field Sports
Authors: Hoffmann James J. , Reed Jacob P. , Leiting Keith , Chiang Chieh-Ying , Stone Michael H.
Published: February 2014

Due to the broad spectrum of physical characteristics necessary for success in field sports, numerous training modalities have been used develop physical preparedness. Sports like rugby, basketball, lacrosse, and others require athletes to be not only strong and powerful but also aerobically fit and able to recover from high-intensity intermittent exercise. This provides coaches and sport scientists with a complex range of variables to consider when developing training programs. This can often lead to confusion and the misuse of training modalities, particularly in the development of aerobic and anaerobic conditioning. This review outlines the benefits and general adaptations to 3 commonly used and effective conditioning methods: high-intensity interval training, repeated-sprint training, and small-sided games. The goals and outcomes of these training methods are discussed, and practical implementations strategies for coaches and sport scientists are provided.
Activity of Protein Kinase RIPK3 Determines Whether Cells Die by Necroptosis or Apoptosis
Authors: Newton Kim , Dugger Debra L. , Wickliffe Katherine E. , Kapoor Neeraj , de Almagro M. Cristina , Vucic Domagoj , Komuves Laszlo , Ferrando Ronald E. , French Dorothy M. , Webster Joshua , Roose-Girma Merone , Warming Søren , Dixit Vishva M.
Published: February 2014

Life and Cell Death

Trying to protect animals from one form of cell death may lead to death by another. Two protein kinases, known as RIPK1 and RIPK3 promote signaling that leads to cell death by necroptosis. However,

Newton
et al.

(p.
1357
, published online 20 February; see the Perspective by

Zhang and Chan

) found that inhibition of RIPK3 was not always beneficial. Instead, mice expressing a form of RIPK3 with no catalytic activity died from increased apoptotic cell death, but animals lacking the RIPK3 protein entirely, did not die perhaps because RIPK3 restrains apoptosis mediated by caspase-8 by an independent mechanism.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas moraviensis R28-S
Authors: Hunter Samuel S. , Yano Hirokazu , Loftie-Eaton Wesley , Hughes Julie , De Gelder Leen , Stragier Pieter , De Vos Paul , Settles Matthew L. , Top Eva M.
Published: February 2014

We report the draft genome sequence of
Pseudomonas moraviensis
R28-S, isolated from the municipal wastewater treatment plant of Moscow, ID. The strain carries a native mercury resistance plasmid, poorly maintains introduced IncP-1 antibiotic resistance plasmids, and has been useful for studying the evolution of plasmid host range and stability.
The Genome Sequence of Bifidobacterium moukalabense DSM 27321 Highlights the Close Phylogenetic Relatedness with the Bifidobacterium dentium Taxon
Authors: Lugli Gabriele Andrea , Duranti Sabrina , Milani Christian , Turroni Francesca , Viappiani Alice , Mangifesta Marta , van Sinderen Douwe , Ventura Marco
Published: February 2014

Bifidobacterium moukalabense
DSM 27321 is the reference strain for a recently described new bifidobacterial species that has been isolated from a wild west lowland gorilla. Here, we report the whole-genome sequence of DSM 27321, which supports very close phylogenetic relatedness with members of the
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
phylogenetic group and, in particular, the
Bifidobacterium dentium
taxon.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Boron-Tolerant and Moderately Halotolerant Bacterium Gracilibacillus boraciitolerans JCM 21714
T
Authors: Ahmed Iftikhar , Oshima Kenshiro , Suda Wataru , Kitamura Keiko , Iida Toshiya , Ohmori Yoshihiro , Fujiwara Toru , Hattori Masahira , Ohkuma Moriya
Published: February 2014

Gracilibacillus boraciitolerans
JCM 21714
T
has been characterized as a highly boron-tolerant and moderately halotolerant bacterium. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of this strain. The genome sequence facilitates an understanding of the biochemical functions of boron and provides a base to identify the gene(s) involved in the boron tolerance mechanism of the strain.
Draft Genome Sequence of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from a Patient in Lebanon
Authors: Tokajian Sima , Eisen Jonathan A. , Jospin Guillaume , Farra Anna , Coil David A.
Published: February 2014

We present the draft genome sequence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
Klebsiella pneumoniae
isolated from a stool sample collected from a patient admitted for a gastrointestinal procedure. The draft genome sequence consists of 86 contigs, including a combined 5,632,663 bases with 57% G+C content.
Draft Genome Sequences of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Patients in Lebanon
Authors: Tokajian Sima , Eisen Jonathan A. , Jospin Guillaume , Farra Anna , Coil David A.
Published: February 2014

We present the draft genome sequences of nine extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
Escherichia coli
strains isolated from stool samples collected from patients admitted for gastrointestinal and urological procedures/surgeries. An average of 3,889,300 paired-end reads per sample were generated, which assembled in 77 to 157 contigs.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus rhamnosus 2166
Authors: Karlyshev Andrey V. , Melnikov Vyacheslav G. , Kosarev Igor V. , Abramov Vyacheslav M.
Published: February 2014

In this report, we present a draft sequence of the genome of
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
strain 2166, a potential novel probiotic. Genome annotation and read mapping onto a reference genome of
L. rhamnosus
strain GG allowed for the identification of the differences and similarities in the genomic contents and gene arrangements of these strains.
Deep seismic reflection constraints on Paleogene crustal extension in the south-central Intermontane belt, British Columbia
Authors: Calvert Andrew J. , Talinga Draga
Published: February 2014

Following growth of the Canadian Cordillera during the Mesozoic, the southern Cordillera was subject to extension during the Paleocene and Eocene that correlated with widespread volcanic activity in south-central British Columbia, including across much of the Nechako–Chilcotin plateau. In 2008, Geoscience BC acquired 330 km of deep vibroseis reflection profiles on the plateau, mostly over the Stikinia arc terrane, but also over its eastern contact with the oceanic Cache Creek terrane. All seven seismic reflection lines reveal a strongly reflective lower crust that extends from 7 to 9 s down to the Moho, which is defined by the downward termination of reflectivity at 11–12 s. In the uppermost crust, extension occurred by block faulting with faults soling into subhorizontal to shallowly dipping detachments above 10 km depth. Extension in the deeper upper and middle crust, which was partly controlled by antiforms likely related to earlier shortening, was accommodated on a network of anastomosing shear zones that sole out into the top of the reflective lower crust. The lower crustal reflections correlate with seismic P-wave velocities of 6.45–6.98 km/s, indicating that the reflective lower crust has a more mafic composition than the middle crust. As in other extensional settings, we suggest that this pervasive fabric of reflectors arises from the intrusion of mantle-derived basaltic magma into zones of ductile shearing, and that differentiation of these melts resulted in the widespread Paleocene to Eocene volcanism. Reflector dips indicate that extension was approximately east–west, consistent with north-northwest-trending horsts separated by basins filled with Paleocene to Eocene volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks.
Distribution of Paleogene and Cretaceous rocks around the Nazko River belt of central British Columbia from 3-D long-offset first-arrival seismic tomography
Authors: Talinga Draga , Calvert Andrew J.
Published: February 2014

Across the Nechako–Chilcotin plateau of British Columbia, the distribution of Cretaceous sedimentary rocks, which are considered prospective for hydrocarbon exploration, is poorly known due to the surface cover of glacial deposits and Tertiary volcanic rocks. To constrain the subsurface distribution of these Cretaceous rocks, in 2008 Geoscience BC acquired seven long, up to 14.4 km, offset vibroseis seismic reflection lines across a north-northwest-trending belt of exhumed sedimentary rocks inferred to be part of the Taylor Creek Group. P-wave velocity models, which are consistent with sonic logs from nearby wells, have been estimated using three-dimensional first-arrival tomography to depths ranging from 1 to 4 km. Igneous basement can be identified on most lines using the 5.5 km/s isovelocity contour, which locates the top of the basement to an accuracy of ∼400 m where its depth is known in exploration wells. There is no general distinction on the basis of seismic velocity between Cretaceous sedimentary and Paleocene–Eocene volcanic–volcaniclastic rocks, both of which appear to be characterized in the tomographic models by velocities of 3.0–5.0 km/s. The geometry of the igneous basement inferred from the velocity models identifies north-trending basins and ridges, which correlate with exposed rocks of the Jurassic Hazelton Group. Identified Cretaceous sedimentary rocks occur beneath less negative Bouguer gravity anomalies, but the original distribution of these rocks has been disrupted by later Tertiary extension that created north-trending basins associated with the most negative gravity anomalies. We suggest that Cretaceous sedimentary rocks, if deposited, could be preserved within these basins if the rocks had not been eroded prior to Tertiary extension.
Two contributions to the ratio of the mean secondary electron generation of backscattered electrons to primary electrons at high electron energy
Authors: Xie Ai-Gen , Zhang Chen-Yi , Zhong Kun
Published: February 2014

Based on the main physical processes of secondary electron emission, experimental results and the characteristics of backscattered electrons (BE), the formula was derived for describing the ratio (βangle) of the number of secondary electrons excited by the larger average angle of emission BE to the number of secondary electrons excited by the primary electrons of normal incidence. This ratio was compared to the similar ratio β obtained in the case of high energy primary electrons. According to the derived formula for βangleand the two reasons why β > 1, the formula describing the ratio βenergyof β to βangle, reflecting the effect that the mean energy of the BE WAV p0is smaller than the energy of the primary electrons at the surface, was derived. βangleand βenergycomputed using the experimental results and the deduced formulae for βangleand βenergywere analyzed. It is concluded that βangleis not dependent on atomic number z, and that βenergydecreases slowly with z. On the basis of the two reasons why β > 1, the definitions of β and βenergyand the number of secondary electrons released per primary electron, the formula for βE-energy(the estimated βenergy) was deduced. The βE-energycomputed using WAV p0, energy exponent and the formula for βE-energyis in a good agreement with βenergycomputed using the experimental results and the deduced formula for βenergy. Finally, it is concluded that the deduced formulae for βangleand βenergycan be used to estimate βangleand βenergy, and that the factor that WAV p0increases slowly with atomic number z leads to the results that βenergydecreases slowly with z and β decreases slowly with z.
Laggan Field 3D geological modelling: case study
Authors: Kheidri L. H. , Cailly F. , Jones K. , De Senneville A. , Gray R.
Published: February 2014

Drilling of Laggan development wells commenced in summer 2013 and finalization of well locations required updated reservoir models, fully incorporating the 2009 baseline seismic. Consequently, geomodelling workflows have been developed based on the 3D seismic, petrophysical and production test data. The reservoir model building methodology for Laggan consists of the following steps: (1) construction of a classical structural framework using seismic interpreted fault sticks, top reservoir depth surface and the overall reservoir thickness map estimated from seismic data; (2) building of zones model integrating well data, seismic and sedimentological concepts; and (3) generation of a 3D facies and petrophysical model constrained by seismic and well data, including well test results to calibrate the permeability.

A reasonable match of the well test data was achieved without any major adjustments to the reservoir model. This methodology has led to the construction of a robust reservoir description, capturing the geological knowledge of the turbidite system and constrained by well and seismic data.

The new Laggan model is now considered ‘fit for purpose’ for well locations update, well type and well number confirmation and development of the Reservoir Management Plan.
Tracheal occlusion-evoked respiratory load compensation and inhibitory neurotransmitter expression in rats
Authors: Tsai Hsiu-Wen , Davenport Paul W.
Published: February 2014

Respiratory load compensation is a sensory-motor reflex generated in the brain stem respiratory neural network. The nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) is thought to be the primary structure to process the respiratory load-related afferent activity and contribute to the modification of the breathing pattern by sending efferent projections to other structures in the brain stem respiratory neural network. The sensory pathway and motor responses of respiratory load compensation have been studied extensively; however, the mechanism of neurogenesis of load compensation is still unknown. A variety of studies has shown that inhibitory interconnections among the brain stem respiratory groups play critical roles for the genesis of respiratory rhythm and pattern. The purpose of this study was to examine whether inhibitory glycinergic neurons in the NTS were activated by external and transient tracheal occlusions (ETTO) in anesthetized animals. The results showed that ETTO produced load compensation responses with increased inspiratory, expiratory, and total breath time, as well as elevated activation of inhibitory glycinergic neurons in the caudal NTS (cNTS) and intermediate NTS (iNTS). Vagotomized animals receiving transient respiratory loads did not exhibit these load compensation responses. In addition, vagotomy significantly reduced the activation of inhibitory glycinergic neurons in the cNTS and iNTS. The results suggest that these activated inhibitory glycinergic neurons in the NTS might be essential for the neurogenesis of load compensation responses in anesthetized animals.
Combined Anti-CD40 and Anti–IL-23 Monoclonal Antibody Therapy Effectively Suppresses Tumor Growth and Metastases
Authors: von Scheidt Bianca , Leung Patrick S.K. , Yong Michelle C.R. , Zhang Yu , Towne Jennifer E. , Smyth Mark J. , Teng Michele W.L.
Published: February 2014

Tumor-induced immunosuppression remains one of the major obstacles to many potentially effective cancer therapies and vaccines. Host interleukin (IL)-23 suppresses the immune response during tumor initiation, growth, and metastases, and neutralization of IL-23 causes IL-12–dependent antitumor effects. Here, we report that combining agonistic anti-CD40 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to drive IL-12 production and anti–IL-23 mAbs to counter the tumor promoting effects of IL-23 has greater antitumor activity than either agent alone. This increased antitumor efficacy was observed in several experimental and spontaneous lung metastases models as well as in models of de novo carcinogenesis. The combination effects were dependent on host IL-12, perforin, IFN-γ, natural killer, and/or T cells and independent of host B cells and IFN-αβ sensitivity. Interestingly, in the experimental lung metastases tumor models, we observed that intracellular IL-23 production was specifically restricted to MHC-IIhiCD11c+CD11b+ cells. Furthermore, an increase in proportion of these IL-23–producing cells was detected only in tumor models where IL-23 neutralization was therapeutic. Overall, these data suggest the clinical potential of using anti-CD40 (push) and anti–IL-23 mAbs (pull) to tip the IL-12/23 balance in established tumors. Cancer Res; 74(9); 2412–21. ©2014 AACR.
A Systems Biology Approach Identifies Effective Tumor–Stroma Common Targets for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Meng Wenxia , Wu Yun , He Xin , Liu Chuanxia , Gao Qinghong , Ge Lin , Wu Lanyan , Liu Ying , Guo Yiqing , Li Xiaoyu , Liu Yurong , Chen Sixiu , Kong Xiangli , Liang Zhi , Zhou Hongmei
Published: February 2014

The complex interactions between cancer cells and their surrounding stromal microenvironment play important roles in tumor initiation and progression and represent viable targets for therapeutic intervention. Here, we propose a concept of common target perturbation (CTP). CTP acts simultaneously on the same target in both the tumor and its stroma that generates a bilateral disruption for potentially improved cancer therapy. To employ this concept, we designed a systems biology strategy by combining experiment and computation to identify potential common target. Through progressive cycles of identification, TGF-β receptor III (TβRIII) is found as an epithelial–mesenchymal common target in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Simultaneous perturbation of TβRIII in the oral cancerous epithelial cells and their adjacent carcinoma-associated fibroblasts effectively inhibits tumor growth in vivo, and shows superiority to the unilateral perturbation of TβRIII in either cell type alone. This study indicates the strong potential to identify therapeutic targets by considering cancer cells and their adjacent stroma simultaneously. The CTP concept combined with our common target discovery strategy provides a framework for future targeted cancer combinatorial therapies. Cancer Res; 74(8); 2306–15. ©2014 AACR.
Androgen Receptor Splice Variants Determine Taxane Sensitivity in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Thadani-Mulero Maria , Portella Luigi , Sun Shihua , Sung Matthew , Matov Alexandre , Vessella Robert L. , Corey Eva , Nanus David M. , Plymate Stephen R. , Giannakakou Paraskevi
Published: February 2014

Prostate cancer growth depends on androgen receptor signaling. Androgen ablation therapy induces expression of constitutively active androgen receptor splice variants that drive disease progression. Taxanes are a standard of care therapy in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC); however, mechanisms underlying the clinical activity of taxanes are poorly understood. Recent work suggests that the microtubule network of prostate cells is critical for androgen receptor nuclear translocation and activity. In this study, we used a set of androgen receptor deletion mutants to identify the microtubule-binding domain of the androgen receptor, which encompasses the DNA binding domain plus hinge region. We report that two clinically relevant androgen receptor splice variants, ARv567 and ARv7, differentially associate with microtubules and dynein motor protein, thereby resulting in differential taxane sensitivity in vitro and in vivo. ARv7, which lacks the hinge region, did not co-sediment with microtubules or coprecipitate with dynein motor protein, unlike ARv567. Mechanistic investigations revealed that the nuclear accumulation and transcriptional activity of ARv7 was unaffected by taxane treatment. In contrast, the microtubule-interacting splice variant ARv567 was sensitive to taxane-induced microtubule stabilization. In ARv567-expressing LuCap86.2 tumor xenografts, docetaxel treatment was highly efficacious, whereas ARv7-expressing LuCap23.1 tumor xenografts displayed docetaxel resistance. Our results suggest that androgen receptor variants that accumulate in CRPC cells utilize distinct pathways of nuclear import that affect the antitumor efficacy of taxanes, suggesting a mechanistic rationale to customize treatments for patients with CRPC, which might improve outcomes. Cancer Res; 74(8); 2270–82. ©2014 AACR.
RNA Editome Imbalance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Qi Lihua , Chan Tim Hon Man , Tenen Daniel G. , Chen Leilei
Published: February 2014

Adenosine-to-inosine conversion (A-to-I editing), a posttranscriptional modification on RNA, contributes to extensive transcriptome diversity. A-to-I editing is a hydrolytic deamination process, catalyzed by adenosine deAminase acting on double-stranded RNA (ADAR) family of enzymes. ADARs are essential for normal mammalian development, and disturbance in RNA editing has been implicated in various pathologic disorders, including cancer. Thanks to next-generation sequencing, rich databases of transcriptome evolution for cancer development at the resolution of single nucleotide have been generated. Extensive bioinformatic analysis revealed a complex picture of RNA editing change during transformation. Cancer displayed global hypoediting of Alu-repetitive elements with gene-specific editing pattern. In particular, hepatocellular carcinoma editome is severely disrupted and characterized by hyper- and hypoediting of different genes, such as hyperedited AZIN1 (antizyme inhibitor 1) and FLNB (filamin B, β) and hypoedited COPA (coatomer protein complex, subunit α). In hepatocellular carcinoma, not only the recoding editing in exons, but also the editing in noncoding regions (e.g., Alu-repetitive elements and microRNA) displays such complex editing pattern with site-specific editing trend. In this review, we will discuss current research progress on the involvement of abnormal A-to-I editing in cancer development, more specifically on hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Res; 74(5); 1301–6. ©2014 AACR.
Has Our Understanding of Calcification in Human Coronary Atherosclerosis Progressed?
Authors: Otsuka Fumiyuki , Sakakura Kenichi , Yahagi Kazuyuki , Joner Michael , Virmani Renu
Published: February 2014

Coronary artery calcification is a well-established predictor of future cardiac events; however, it is not a predictor of unstable plaque. The intimal calcification of the atherosclerotic plaques may begin with smooth muscle cell apoptosis and release of matrix vesicles and is almost always seen microscopically in pathological intimal thickening, which appears as microcalcification (≥0.5 μm, typically <15 μm in diameter). Calcification increases with macrophage infiltration into the lipid pool in early fibroatheroma where they undergo apoptosis and release matrix vesicles. The confluence of calcified areas involves extracellular matrix and the necrotic core, which can be identified by radiography as speckled (≤2 mm) or fragmented (>2, <5 mm) calcification. The calcification in thin-cap fibroatheromas and plaque rupture is generally less than what is observed in stable plaques and is usually speckled or fragmented. Fragmented calcification spreads into the surrounding collagen-rich matrix forming calcified sheets, the hallmarks of fibrocalcific plaques. The calcified sheets may break into nodules with fibrin deposition, and when accompanied by luminal protrusion, it is associated with thrombosis. Calcification is highest in fibrocalcific plaques followed by healed plaque rupture and is the least in erosion and pathological intimal thickening. The extent of calcification is greater in men than in women especially in the premenopausal period and is also greater in whites compared with blacks. The mechanisms of intimal calcification remain poorly understood in humans. Calcification often occurs in the presence of apoptosis of smooth muscle cells and macrophages with matrix vesicles accompanied by expression of osteogenic markers within the vessel wall.
Deficiency of the MicroRNA-31–MicroRNA-720 Pathway in the Plasma and Endothelial Progenitor Cells From Patients With Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Wang Hsei-Wei , Huang Tse-Shun , Lo Hung-Hao , Huang Po-Hsun , Lin Chih-Ching , Chang Shing-Jyh , Liao Ko-Hsun , Tsai Chin-Han , Chan Chia-Hao , Tsai Cheng-Fong , Cheng Yi-Chieh , Chiu Ya-Ling , Tsai Tsung-Neng , Cheng Cheng-Chung , Cheng Shu-Meng
Published: February 2014

Objective—

Defects in angiogenesis/vasculogenesis or vessel repair are major complications of coronary artery disease (CAD). Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play a fundamental role in postnatal vascular repair and CAD. The role of microRNAs in CAD pathogenesis and their potential as biomarkers remain to be elucidated.

Approach and Results—

MicroRNA-31 (miR-31) level in both the plasma and EPCs of patients with CAD is found lower. miR-31 regulates EPC activities by targeting FAT atypical cadherin 4 and thromboxane A2 receptor, which show increased expression in CAD EPCs. Overexpressing miR-31 in CAD EPCs rescued their angiogenic and vasculogenic abilities both in vitro and in vivo. When exploring approaches to restore endogenous miR-31, we found that far-infrared treatment enhanced the expression of not only miR-31, but also miR-720 in CAD EPCs. miR-720, which was also decreased in EPCs and the plasma of patients with CAD, stimulated EPC activity by targeting vasohibin 1. The miR720–vasohibin 1 pair was shown to be downstream of FAT atypical cadherin 4, but not of thromboxane A2 receptor. FAT atypical cadherin 4 inhibited miR-720 expression via repression of the planar cell polarity signaling gene four-jointed box 1 (
FJX1
), which was required for miR-720 expression through a hypoxia-inducible factor 1, α subunit–dependent mechanism. Restoring miR-720 level strengthened activity of CAD EPCs. The miR-31–miR-720 pathway is shown critical to EPC activation and that downregulation of this pathway contributes to CAD pathogenesis. Circulating levels of miR-31, miR-720, and vasohibin 1 have the potential to allow early diagnosis of CAD and to act as prognosis biomarkers for CAD and other EPC-related diseases.

Conclusions—

Manipulating the expression of the miR-31–miR-720 pathway in malfunction EPCs should help develop novel therapeutic modalities.
Contribution of Kv7.4/Kv7.5 Heteromers to Intrinsic and Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide–Induced Cerebral Reactivity
Authors: Chadha Preet S. , Jepps Thomas A. , Carr Georgina , Stott Jennifer B. , Zhu Hei-Lei , Cole William C. , Greenwood Iain A.
Published: February 2014

Objective—

Middle cerebral artery (MCA) diameter is regulated by inherent myogenic activity and the effect of potent vasodilators such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Previous studies showed that MCAs express KCNQ1, 4, and 5 potassium channel genes, and the expression products (Kv7 channels) participate in the myogenic control of MCA diameter. The present study investigated the contribution of Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 isoforms to myogenic and CGRP regulation of MCA diameter and determined whether they were affected in hypertensive animals.

Approach and Results—

Isometric tension recordings performed on MCA from normotensive rats produced CGRP vasodilations that were inhibited by the pan-Kv7 channel blocker linopirdine (
P
<0.01) and after transfection of arteries with siRNA against KCNQ4 (
P
<0.01) but not KCNQ5. However, isobaric myography revealed that myogenic constriction in response to increases in intravascular pressure (20–80 mm Hg) was affected by both KCNQ4 and KCNQ5 siRNA. Proximity ligation assay signals were equally abundant for Kv7.4/Kv7.4 or Kv7.4/Kv7.5 antibody combinations but minimal for Kv7.5/Kv7.5 antibodies or Kv7.4/7.1 combinations. In contrast to systemic arteries, Kv7 function and Kv7.4 abundance in MCA were not altered in hypertensive rats.

Conclusions—

This study reveals, for the first time to our knowledge, that in cerebral arteries, Kv7.4 and Kv7.5 proteins exist predominantly as a functional heterotetramer, which regulates intrinsic myogenicity and vasodilation attributed to CGRP. Surprisingly, unlike systemic arteries, Kv7 activity in MCAs is not affected by the development of hypertension, and CGRP-mediated vasodilation is well maintained. As such, cerebrovascular Kv7 channels could be amenable for therapeutic targeting in conditions such as cerebral vasospasm.
Theatre Building, Building Theatre: Fostering Disruption and Community through Arts and Education
Authors: Campbell Mary Schmidt
Published: February 2014

The occasion of building an NYU Abu Dhabi Arts Center on Saadiyat Island, as part of NYU's campus there, and the Tisch School planning a new Institute of Performing Arts Center (IPAC) in lower Manhattan create an opportunity for conceiving a dynamic, collaborative Middle East-meets-West partnership. This partnership has the potential to disrupt conventional expectations of both a liberal arts education and professional theatre training as well as to build bridges to new audiences.
Performing Dream or Reality: The Dilemma of Chinese Community-Based Theatre
Authors: Liang Shen
Published: February 2014

In recent years, teachers and students at Shanghai Theatre Academy did several community-based theatre projects among the migrant workers and their families who came from the Chinese countryside. When we applied Augusto Boal's techniques of Theatre of the Oppressed, we found that many community members prefer performing their dreams to performing their unpleasant reality.
Queer Politics, Sexual Anarchism, and Nationalism: The Chinese Male Mother and the Queer Family in He Is My Wife, He Is My Mother
Authors: Chang Ivy I-chu
Published: February 2014

Shuttling queerly across multiple temporalities, Chou Katherine Hui-ling's drama depicts a romance between You Ruilang, a self-castrated female impersonator, and Xu Jifang. The dramaturgy of gender transitivity intertwines sexual identity and nationalism, making palpable the homosexuality and homosociality that occurs between homophobia and homophilia.
Remembering and Reenacting Hunger: Caochangdi Workstation's Minjian Memory Project
Authors: Zhuang Jiayun
Published: February 2014

The Beijing-based Caochangdi Workstation's Minjian Jiyi Jihua (The Memory Project), launched in 2009, is an ongoing participatory creation. By engaging with genres of commemoration (e.g., oral history narratives, documentary, performance) participants retrieve and transmit the memories of peasant survivors of the Great Leap Famine of 1959 to 1961.
Does Climate Change Worsen Resource Scarcity and Cause Violent Ethnic Conflict?
Authors: Sunga Lyal S.
Published: February 2014

Does climate change create conditions in which ethnic groups, particularly in developing countries, become more likely to struggle for scarce resources which can then spur ethnically motivated violence and serious atrocities? Or is the relation between climate change and atrocities, if there is one, far more complex and perhaps indirect? How should climate change be viewed as a risk factor for the onset of violent ethnic conflict? What practical relevance could climate change effects have on early warning and prevention of serious human rights violations including crimes against humanity and genocide? The author first considers whether climate change science warnings deserve to be taken seriously before reviewing empirical studies focussing on the supposed link between climate change and ethnic conflict. Second, he argues that it is valuable to treat climate change as a possible risk factor for ethnic conflict situations in which crimes against humanity or genocide might be perpetrated, and to reflect upon early warning and prevention in this connection. The author then sets out five considerations that research on the question of a causal link between climate change and ethnic conflict should take into account.
Wood Anatomy Of Seven Species Of Tachigali (Caesalpinioideae–Leguminosae)
Authors: Macedo Tahysa M. , Barros Claudia F. , Lima Haroldo C. , Costa Cecília G.
Published: February 2014

This article describes the wood anatomy of seven species of Tachigali Aublet with the aim of identifying 1) diagnostic characters at the species level and 2) anatomical features with potential for future combined morphological and molecular phylogenetic analysis. Tachigali species present fibre dimorphism and can be grouped according to the arrangement of the thin-walled fibres: tangential bands of thin-walled fibres alternating with thick-walled fibres, as in T. duckei and T. vulgaris; wavy bands , as in T. paratyensis, T. glauca and T. vulgaris; well-developed bands to describe the abundance of thin-walled fibres in contrast to thick-walled fibres, as in T. denudata and T. pilgeriana; and in islands or groups of thin-walled fibres scattered among ordinary fibres. It is recommended to explore the phylogenetic significance of the different types of fibre dimorphism in future combined molecular and morphological cladistics analyses.
Wood Decay By Inonotus Rickii and Bjerkandera Adusta: A Micro- And Ultra-Structural Approach
Authors: Robles Carolina Analía , Castro María Agueda
Published: February 2014

Bjerkandera adusta (Willd.) P. Karst. and Inonotus rickii (Pat.) D.A. Reid. are important xylophagous fungi affecting street trees in Buenos Aires City, Argentina. The objective of this paper is to describe the decay patterns produced by these species in London plane wood (Platanus acerifolia (Ait.) Willd.), which is one of the most abundant tree species in the city, through light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A better knowledge of the decay patterns of these fungi at early stages would provide useful information for optimizing tree management programs. Microscopic observations showed that B. adusta, having caused an important loss of dry weight, showed more extensive degradation of wood after three months than I. rickii, affecting mainly fiber walls with potential consequences in tree strength and stiffness. Inonotus rickii, on the other hand, selectively affected vessel walls and middle lamellae between fibers. Rays remained virtually unaltered in all decayed wood.
The Wood Collection (Xylarium) Of The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Authors: Cornish Caroline , Gasson Peter , Nesbitt Mark
Published: February 2014

The wood collection of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (United Kingdom) has its origin in the founding of Kew’s Museum of Economic Botany in 1847. In the nineteenth century specimens came from explorers and botanists; from imperial institutions such as the Indian Forest Department, and from international exhibitions (world’s fairs). Woods were labelled with their names and properties, creating an educational exhibit aimed particularly at forestry students. In the early twentieth century wood specimens from aristocratic estates formed the basis of a new museum of British Forestry. The foundation of the Jodrell Laboratory at Kew in 1876 led to more research in plant anatomy, but sustained research in wood anatomy and the creation of a major collection of plant anatomy slides dates from the 1930s. Since that time, accessions have come from other wood collections (sometimes the transfer of whole collections), from Kew’s botanical expeditions in Brazil and Southeast Asia, and often as institutional or personal gifts from wood anatomists in other countries. The woods now number 34,314 and form part of the Economic Botany Collection, kept in a purpose-built research store and with a collection database available online. As well as enabling plant anatomy research, the woods are increasingly used by historians, and for wood isotope studies, biochemistry etc.
Deception in Third Party Advertising in the 2012 Presidential Campaign
Authors: Winneg Kenneth M. , Hardy Bruce W. , Gottfried Jeffrey A. , Jamieson Kathleen Hall
Published: February 2014

In this article, we profile the advertising activities and deception levels of the top 2012 spending independent expenditure groups that focused on the presidential contest. From December 1, 2011, through Election Day, November 6, 2012, independent expenditure groups spent more than $360 million on presidential television advertising, according to Kantar Media CMAG. More than a fifth of the dollars spent by the top groups purchased ads containing at least one claim judged as misleading by independent fact checkers. The proportion of dollars that these groups spent on ads containing at least one deception was much greater during the primaries than afterward. During the primaries, the pro-Romney super PAC “Restore Our Future” led the pack both in dollars spent on ads containing at least one deception and in the proportion of its ads found deceptive by the fact checkers. During the general election, in the post-primary period, the pro-Obama super PAC “Priorities USA Action” devoted the most dollars and greatest proportion of its total dollars to ads in which fact checkers found at least one deceptive claim. During some but not all of the 2012 election year, the percentage of third party ads containing at least one deceptive claim was higher among those groups not required to disclose their donors than it was among those required to do so.
Effects of Item Parameter Drift on Vertical Scaling With the Nonequivalent Groups With Anchor Test (NEAT) Design
Authors: Ye Meng , Xin Tao
Published: February 2014

The authors explored the effects of drifting common items on vertical scaling within the higher order framework of item parameter drift (IPD). The results showed that if IPD occurred between a pair of test levels, the scaling performance started to deviate from the ideal state, as indicated by bias of scaling. When there were two items drifting with 0.5 logits, IPD could have a substantial effect on vertical scaling. Although IPD had little impact on the recoveries of the parameters on the whole developmental scale, its effects on the recoveries of some parameters by separate grade and grade pair were manifest. Specifically, the mean achievement estimates became worse conditional on the pair of test levels between which IPD occurred, and the estimations of grade-to-grade growth and effect size were distorted for the grade pair corresponding to the test pair that involved IPD. Neither the estimation of standard deviation of the achievement nor the grade-to-grade variability was influenced by IPD.
Boundary Adherence during Place-based Policing Evaluations
Authors: Sorg Evan T. , Wood Jennifer D. , Groff Elizabeth R. , Ratcliffe Jerry H.
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

This note explores complications with standard methods to evaluate place-based policing interventions. It identifies and explains issues of boundary misspecification during evaluation as a result of boundary adjustment by police during an intervention.

Method:

Using geographic data gathered during post-experiment focus groups with officers involved in the Philadelphia Foot Patrol Experiment, we highlight the practice of boundary adjustment on the part of officers and we explain why such adjustments occurred.

Results:

Officers involved in the focus groups who identified the active boundaries of their hot spot assignments ( n = 124) all reported policing outside of their delineated beats. On average, their active beats were 0.13 square miles larger than the originally delineated treatment beats. Some active beats overlapped catchment and control locations.

Conclusion:

Boundary misspecification could cause researchers to (1) incorrectly label a direct benefit of receiving treatment as a diffusion of crime control benefits; (2) underestimate immediate spatial crime displacement; and (3) underestimate treatment effects. Future place-based experiments should take into account the various pressures on officers to adjust the boundaries of their assignments by incorporating measures that track boundary adherence over time (and reporting them) in order to optimize assessments of net effects, diffusion and displacement.
Developing Dementia-Friendly Tourism Destinations
Authors: Page Stephen J. , Innes Anthea , Cutler Clare
Published: February 2014

Dementia is emerging as a global issue. Increases in life expectancy create an older population structure with accompanying health needs but also high lifestyle expectations. For example existing generations have come to expect to be able to participate in leisure and tourism activities in later life, which can be constrained by the onset of dementia. Leading healthy lifestyles and engaging in tourism activities are viewed as fundamental to remaining active and contributing to slowing the progress of dementia. This study is the first to examine the challenges and implications of the growing scale of dementia and the business opportunities this may create for destinations wishing to achieve dementia-friendly status. The paper reports results from an initial scoping study with tourism businesses in a coastal resort in the United Kingdom with such ambitions to assess the nature of the issues that arose from a series of face-to-face interviews.
Outbreak of scrub typhus in North India: a re-emerging epidemic
Authors: Sethi Sunil , Prasad Amber , Biswal Manisha , Hallur Vinay Kumar , Mewara Abhishek , Gupta Navneet , Galhotra Shipra , Singh Gagandeep , Sharma Kusum
Published: February 2014

Scrub typhus is re-emerging in India. We describe an outbreak of 45 cases from our tertiary care center in north India. This outbreak included city dwellers who had no history of travel to hilly areas. The classical feature of scrub typhus, the eschar, was also noted rarely in these patients. The changing epidemiology of scrub typhus should be kept in mind while attending patients with acute febrile illness.
Is Diversity Management Sufficient? Organizational Inclusion to Further Performance
Authors: Sabharwal Meghna
Published: February 2014

This study focuses on the concept of organizational inclusion, which goes beyond diversity management, the dominant paradigm in the field of public administration. Although several studies in public administration mention the importance of inclusion, none of these studies have empirically tested its association with performance beyond diversity management. Data for this study comes from a survey conducted among public managers in Texas agencies. The study finds that diversity management alone is insufficient for improving workplace performance. What is required instead is an approach that promotes greater inclusion of employees in ways that takes their views into account and promotes self-esteem. The results show that productive workplaces exist when employees are encouraged to express their opinions, and their input is sought before making important organizational decisions. This requires supportive leadership and empowering employees with information and resources that will help them make important decisions about their jobs.
Diabetes to Go: Knowledge- and Competency-Based Hospital Survival Skills Diabetes Education Program Improves Postdischarge Medication Adherence
Authors: Magee Michelle F. , Khan Nawreen H. , Desale Sameer , Nassar Carine M.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

The primary purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of providing inpatient knowledge-based diabetes “survival skills” education. In addition, the preliminary impact of the survival skills education intervention on medication adherence and hospital plus emergency department admissions was assessed.

Methods

This study was a prospective nonrandomized pilot study conducted in an urban teaching hospital. In sum 125 adults consented—the majority of whom were African American women—with uncontrolled diabetes: blood glucose > 200 mg/dL or < 40 mg/dL upon admission to general medicine units. Mean admitting blood glucose was 283 ± 128 mg/dL. Evaluation measures were diabetes knowledge, medication adherence, and hospital admissions plus emergency department visits at and/or 3 months before baseline and at 2 weeks and 3 months postdischarge.

Results

There was improvement in diabetes knowledge and medication adherence, which was sustained to 3 months. A trend was observed toward reduction in emergency department and/or hospital admissions from 3 months preintervention to 3 months postdischarge for uncontrolled diabetes.

Conclusions

This knowledge-based program successfully provided survival skills education to hospital patients with uncontrolled diabetes and demonstrated preliminary evidence of a positive impact on medication adherence and a trend toward reduction in hospital and emergency department admissions.