bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Sustaining Effects of Tai Chi Qigong in the Sixth Month in Promoting Psychosocial Health in COPD Patients: A Single‐Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chan Aileen W. K. , Lee Albert , Lee Diana T. F. , Sit Janet W. H. , Chair S. Y.
Published: October 2013

Objectives. To evaluate the sustaining effects of Tai Chi Qigong (TCQ) in improving the psychosocial health in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients in the sixth month.
Background. COPD affects both physical and emotional aspects of life. Measures to minimize patients′ suffering need to be implemented. Methods. 206 COPD patients were randomly assigned into three groups: TCQ group, exercise group, and control group. The TCQ group completed a three‐month TCQ program, the exercise group practiced breathing and walking exercise, and the control group received usual care. Results. Significant group‐by‐time interactions in quality of life (QOL) using St. George′s respiratory questionnaire (P = 0.002) and the perceived social support from friends using multidimensional scale of perceived social support (P = 0.04) were noted. Improvements were observed in the TCQ group only.
Conclusions. TCQ has sustaining effects in improving psychosocial health; it is also a useful and appropriate exercise for COPD patients.
Development and Application of One-Sided Piezoelectric Actuating Micropump
Authors: Ma H. K. , Li Y. T. , Su H. C. , Luo W. F. , Pan T. J. , Fang F. M. , Hsu S. W.
Published: October 2013

Three types of one-sided actuating piezoelectric micropumps are studied in this paper. In the first type, one-sided actuating micropump with two check valves can enhance the flow rate and prevent the back flow in suction mode to keep the flow in one direction. Furthermore, the frequency modulator is applied in the micropump to adjust and promote the maximum flow rate higher than 5.0 mL/s. In the second type, valveless micropump with secondary chamber shows that the secondary chamber plays a key role in the application of the valveless micropump. It not only keeps the flow in one direction but also makes the flow rate of the pump reach 0.989 mL/s. In addition, when a nozzle/diffuser element is used in valveless micropump, the flow rate can be further improved to 1.183 mL/s at a frequency of 150 Hz. In the third type, piezoelectric actuating pump is regarded as an air pump in the application of a microfuel cell system, which can increase more air inlet to improve the fuel/air reaction and further increase the performance of fuel cell.
Convulsive and Neurodegenerative Effects in Rats of Some Isolated Toxins from theTityus bahiensisScorpion Venom
Authors: Takeishi Ossanai Luciene Toshie , Lourenço Geane Antiques , Lebrun Ivo , Abrahão Nencioni Ana Leonor , Coronado Dorce Valquiria Abrão
Published: October 2013

DespiteTityus bahiensisbeing one of the most dangerous scorpions in Brazil, there are few studies about the effects of its venom, which acts mainly on the central nervous system. Previous studies demonstrated the convulsive ability of this venom. The present work aimed to study the hippocampal effects in rats of some toxins isolated from pool V, which induces a pronounced epileptogenic effect. The pool was separated by reverse-phase HPLC, and the peaks with higher yield (Tb V-1, V-5, V-24, V-27, and V-28) were used in the experiments. Cannulae and electrodes were implanted in the hippocampus of male Wistar rats (240–250 g). The animals were divided into six groups that received intracerebral injection of toxin solution (1 or 2 μg/μL) or Ringer solution (control group), and they were submitted to behavioral, electrographic, and histological analysis. All toxins studied evoked electrographic and behavioral epileptic-like activity to different degrees. Moreover, the toxins V-1, V-24, and V-28 caused significant neuronal loss in CA4 ipsi- and contralateral hippocampal areas. These results suggest that toxins fromT. bahiensisscorpion, when injected into the hippocampus, are able to act directly on the central nervous system inducing convulsive and neurodegenerative effects.
New Steroidal Erythrityl Triesters from the Heat Processed Roots of Panax ginseng
Authors: Chung Ill-Min , Ali Mohd , Yang Ye-Seul , Yoon Jae-Yeon , Hong Youn-Pyo , Ahmad Ateeque
Published: October 2013

Two new compounds stigmasta‐3α‐ol‐3α‐(2′R,3′S)‐butane‐1′,2′,3′,4′‐tetraolyl‐2′,3′‐dioctadec‐9″/9‴‐enoyl‐4′‐octadec‐9″″,12″″‐dienoate (1) and stigmasta‐5‐en‐3β‐ol‐3β‐(2′R,3′S)‐butane‐1′,2′,3′,4′‐tetraolyl‐2′,3′‐dioctadec‐9″/9‴‐enoyl‐4′‐octadec‐9″″,12″″‐dienoate (2) along with β‐sitosterol‐β‐D‐glucoside were isolated and identified from the heat processed roots of Panax ginseng. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR (COSY, HSQC, and HMBC) spectroscopic techniques aided by FAB‐MS, ESI FT/MS, and IR spectra.
An Overview of Recent Research Results and Future Research Avenues Using Simulation Studies in Project Management
Authors: Vanhoucke Mario
Published: October 2013

This paper gives an overview of three simulation studies in dynamic project scheduling integrating baseline scheduling with risk analysis and project control. This integration is known in the literature as dynamic scheduling. An integrated project control method is presented using a project control simulation approach that combines the three topics into a single decision support system. The method makes use of Monte Carlo simulations and connects schedule risk analysis (SRA) with earned value management (EVM). A corrective action mechanism is added to the simulation model to measure the efficiency of two alternative project control methods. At the end of the paper, a summary of recent and state-of-the-art results is given, and directions for future research based on a new research study are presented.
Microstructural and Compositional Characterisation of Chromate Pretreatment on Aluminium
Authors: Oki M.
Published: October 2013

Chromate conversion coating developed on aluminium has been examined using SEM/EDX and CTEM/EDX with a view to having further knowledge of its intrinsic surface, plan, and sectional morphologies which will aid the understanding of their roles in improved corrosion and adhesion properties of the underlying substrate. The surface consists of spherical clusters of particulate materials. The sections, however, reveal approximately parallel, linear features which terminate at or close to the metal/coating interface, while plan views show cell-like particulate features. The coating is composed of chromium and aluminium compounds, both, probably hydrated. For a conversion coating to fully replace its chromate counterpart, most of these features may have to be replicated in the nonchromium coating material which should contain nontoxic, leachable corrosion inhibiting species.
Association of Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectations with Physical Activity in Adults with Arthritis
Authors: Mielenz Thelma J. , Kubiak-Rizzone Kathryn L. , Alvarez Kimberly J. , Hlavacek Patrick R. , Freburger Janet K. , Giuliani Carol , Mercer Vicki S. , Callahan Leigh F.
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose. The purpose of this study is to determine whether higher baseline levels of (a) self-efficacy for physical activity, (b) self-efficacy for arthritis self-management, and (c) outcome expectations for exercise are associated with higher physical activity levels following an exercise intervention for adults with arthritis. Methods. A secondary analysis of the intervention cohort (n=130) within a randomized controlled trial of the People with Arthritis Can Exercise program was performed. Multiple linear regression evaluated the relationship between physical activity at a time point three months after the completion of an exercise intervention and three main explanatory variables. Results. After controlling for baseline physical activity, neither self-efficacy for arthritis self-management nor outcome expectations for exercise related to three-month physical activity levels. There was a relationship between three-month physical activity and self-efficacy for physical activity. Conclusions. Future research is needed to evaluate the ability of self-efficacy-enhancing programs to increase physical activity in adults with arthritis.
Associations between Psychosocial and Physiological Factors and Diabetes Health Indicators in Asian and Pacific Islander Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Li Dongmei , Inouye Jillian , Davis Jim , Arakaki Richard F.
Published: October 2013

The associations between psychosocial and physiological factors and diabetes’ health indicators have not been widely investigated among Asians and Pacific Islanders. We hypothesize that health behaviour and depression are directly or indirectly associated with diabetes’ health indicators such as BMI, glycemic control, general health, and diabetes quality of life. Our hypothesis was tested through a structural equation modelling (SEM) approach. Questionnaires that assessed health behaviour, depression, general health, diabetes quality of life, and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), along with patients’ demographic information, were obtained from 207 Asian and Pacific Islander adults with type 2 diabetes. IBM SPSS Amos 20 was used for the SEM analysis at 5% level of significance, and the goodness fit of the SEM model was also evaluated. The final SEM model showed that diet and exercise and foot care had positive associations, while depression had a negative association with diabetes’ health indicators. The results highlighted the importance of exercise and depression in diabetes patients’ BMI, glycemic control, general health, and quality of life, which provide evidence for the need to alleviate patients’ depression besides education and training in diet and exercise in future intervention studies among Asians and Pacific Islanders with type 2 diabetes.
Highly Dispersed α-MoC1-x in Porous Silica for CO Hydrogenation
Authors: Xiang Minglin , Zou Juan
Published: October 2013

A facile method has been developed to prepare highly dispersed α-MoC1-x
in porous silica. By utilizing C atoms in methyl modified silica supports, α-MoC1-x/SiO2
was obtained via insitu carburization. The obtained samples exhibited high activity for CO hydrogenation.
Arteriovenous Passage Times and Visual Field Progression in Normal Tension Glaucoma
Authors: Koch Eva Charlotte , Arend Kay Oliver , Bienert Marion , Remky Andreas , Plange Niklas
Published: October 2013

Purpose. Fluorescein angiographic studies revealed prolonged arteriovenous passage (AVP) times and increased fluorescein filling defects in normal tension glaucoma (NTG) compared to healthy controls. The purpose of this study was to correlate baseline AVP and fluorescein filling defects with visual field progression in patients with NTG. Patients and Methods. Patients with a follow‐up period of at least 3 years and at least 4 visual field examinations were included in this retrospective study. Fluorescein angiography was performed at baseline using a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO, Rodenstock Instr.); fluorescein filling defects and AVP were measured by digital image analysis and dye dilution curves (25 Hz). Visual field progression was evaluated using regression analysis of the MD (Humphrey‐Zeiss, SITA‐24‐2, MD progression per year (dB/year)). 72 patients with NTG were included, 44 patients in study 1 (fluorescein filling defects) and 28 patients in study 2 (AVP). Results. In study 1 (mean follow‐up 6.6 ± 1.9 years, 10 ± 5 visual field tests), MD progression per year (−0.51 ± 0.59 dB/year) was significantly correlated to the age (P = 0.04, r = ‐0.29) but not to fluorescein filling defects, IOP, or MD at baseline. In study 2 (mean follow‐up 6.6 ± 2.2 years, 10 ± 5 visual field tests), MD progression per year (−0.45 ± 0.51 dB/year) was significantly correlated to AVP (P = 0.03, r = 0.39) but not to age, IOP, or MD at baseline. Conclusion. Longer AVP times at baseline are correlated to visual field progression in NTG. Impaired retinal blood flow seems to be an important factor for glaucoma progression.
Geometric Nonlinear Analysis of Self‐Anchored Cable‐Stayed Suspension Bridges
Authors: Hui-Li Wang , Yan-Bin Tan , Si-Feng Qin , Zhe Zhang
Published: October 2013

Geometric nonlinearity of self‐anchored cable‐stayed suspension bridges is studied in this paper. The repercussion of shrinkage and creep of concrete, rise‐to‐span ratio, and girder camber on the system is discussed. A self‐anchored cable‐stayed suspension bridge with a main span of 800 m is analyzed with linear theory, second‐order theory, and nonlinear theory, respectively. In the condition of various rise‐to‐span ratios and girder cambers, the moments and displacements of both the girder and the pylon under live load are acquired. Based on the results it is derived that the second‐order theory can be adopted to analyze a self‐anchored cable‐stayed suspension bridge with a main span of 800 m, and the error is less than 6%. The shrinkage and creep of concrete impose a conspicuous impact on the structure. And it outmatches suspension bridges for system stiffness. As the rise‐to‐span ratio increases, the axial forces of the main cable and the girder decline. The system stiffness rises with the girder camber being employed.
Mesh Partitioning Algorithm Based on Parallel Finite Element Analysis and Its Actualization
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhang Guoxin , Liu Yi , Pan Hailin
Published: October 2013

In parallel computing based on finite element analysis, domain decomposition is a key technique for its preprocessing. Generally, a domain decomposition of a mesh can be realized through partitioning of a graph which is converted from a finite element mesh. This paper discusses the method for graph partitioning and the way to actualize mesh partitioning. Relevant softwares are introduced, and the data structure and key functions of Metis and ParMetis are introduced. The writing, compiling, and testing of the mesh partitioning interface program based on these key functions are performed. The results indicate some objective law and characteristics to guide the users who use the graph partitioning algorithm and software to write PFEM program, and ideal partitioning effects can be achieved by actualizing mesh partitioning through the program. The interface program can also be used directly by the engineering researchers as a module of the PFEM software. So that it can reduce the application of the threshold of graph partitioning algorithm, improve the calculation efficiency, and promote the application of graph theory and parallel computing.
Frequency and Clinical Epidemiology of Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis in Dogs Infested with Ticks from Sinaloa, Mexico
Authors: Sosa-Gutierrez Carolina Guadalupe , Quintero Martinez Maria Teresa , Gaxiola Camacho Soila Maribel , Cota Guajardo Silvia , Esteve-Gassent Maria D. , Gordillo-Pérez María-Guadalupe
Published: October 2013

Ehrlichia canis is a rickettsial intracellular obligate bacterial pathogen and agent of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis. The prevalence of this disease in veterinary medicine can vary depending on the diagnostic method used and the geographic location. One hundred and fifty-two canine blood samples from six veterinary clinics and two shelters from Sinaloa State (Mexico) were analyzed in this study. All animals were suspected of having Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (CME). The diagnostic methods used were the ELISA (Snap4Dx, IDEXX) together with blood smear and platelet count. From all dogs blood samples analyzed, 74.3% were positive to E. canis by ELISA and 40.1% were positive by blood smear. The sensitivity and specificity observed in the ELISA test were 78.8% and 86.7%. In addition, thrombocytopenia was presented in 87.6% of positive dogs. The predominant clinical manifestations observed were fever, anorexia, depression, lethargy, and petechiae. Consequently, this is the first report in which the morulae were visualized in the blood samples, and E. canis-specific antibodies were detected in dogs from Sinaloa, Northwest of Mexico.
The Physiologic Effects of an Acute Bout of Supramaximal High-Intensity Interval Training Compared with a Continuous Exercise Bout in Patients with COPD
Authors: Butcher Scotty J. , Yurach Madison T. , Heynen Nichole M. , Pikaluk Brendan J. , Horvey Karla J. , Clemens Ron , Marciniuk Darcy D.
Published: October 2013

This study compared physiological responses and work performed during a supramaximal high-intensity interval exercise training session (HIIT) and a constant work rate (CWR) exercise session. Fourteen patients with COPD (mean FEV1  
53±13% predicted (±SD)) completed an incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and a steep ramp anaerobic test (SRAT) and then two exercise bouts to symptom limitation on separate days, in random order: (1) a CWR trial at 80% of CPET peak work rate (mean 63±15 W) and (2) a HIIT trial using repeats of 30 s at 70% of SRAT peak work rate (mean 112±29 W) followed by 90 s at 20% of CPET peak work rate. Subjects ceased exercise primarily due to dyspnea for both HIIT and CWR (64% vs. 57%, resp.). End-exercise VE, HR, dyspnea, and leg fatigue were similar between the two exercise protocols. Average work rate was lower in HIIT than CWR (32 vs. 63 W, P<0.05); however, subjects performed HIIT longer (542 vs. 202 s, P<0.05) and for greater total work (23.3 vs. 12.0 kJ, P<0.05). The supramaximal HIIT protocol was well tolerated and demonstrated similar maximal physiologic responses to constant work rate exercise, but with greater leg muscle work performed and greater peak exercise intensity.
Availability and Plant Uptake of Biosolid-Borne Metals
Authors: Koo Bon-Jun , Chang Andrew C. , Crowley David E. , Page Al L. , Taylor Alexandria
Published: October 2013

Metal uptake by different plant species was quantified in sand media amended with biosolids in a sand-culture hydroponic medium. In a previous paper (Koo et al. 2006), we concluded that total quantities of organic acids were greatest in treatments containing both plants and biosolids, with lesser amounts in treatments with plants alone, biosolids-treated media alone, and a nutrient solution-irrigated blank medium. Biosolids enhanced organic acid production in the rhizosphere. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how organic acids in root exudates affect the absorption of metals by selected plants. We found that the concentrations of metals in the plant tissue grown on biosolids-treated medium were always higher than that from the standard medium, irrespective of species and cultivar. The amount of metal transferred from the biosolids-treated medium to the plant varied with the metal element, following the order: Cd > Ni = Zn > Cu > Pb > Cr. Interspecies and cultivar differences in metal uptake were trivial compared to differences induced by the treatment. The metal uptake decreased with the growth period, and the kinetics of metal uptake, as indicated by accumulation in corn shoots, were essentially a first order during the initial 4 weeks of growth, especially for Cd and Zn.
Microbial Diversity in the Era of Omic Technologies
Authors: Nikolaki Sofia , Tsiamis George
Published: October 2013

Human life and activity depends on microorganisms, as they are responsible for providing basic elements of life. Although microbes have such a key role in sustaining basic functions for all living organisms, very little is known about their biology since only a small fraction (average 1%) can be cultured under laboratory conditions. This is even more evident when considering that >88% of all bacterial isolates belong to four bacterial phyla, theProteobacteria,Firmicutes,Actinobacteria, andBacteroidetes. Advanced technologies, developed in the last years, promise to revolutionise the way that we characterize, identify, and study microbial communities. In this review, we present the most advanced tools that microbial ecologists can use for the study of microbial communities. Innovative microbial ecological DNA microarrays such as PhyloChip and GeoChip that have been developed for investigating the composition and function of microbial communities are presented, along with an overview of the next generation sequencing technologies. Finally, the Single Cell Genomics approach, which can be used for obtaining genomes from uncultured phyla, is outlined. This tool enables the amplification and sequencing of DNA from single cells obtained directly from environmental samples and is promising to revolutionise microbiology.
Infrared Spectroscopic Characterization of CIT-6 and a Family of *BEA Zeolites
Authors: Tomlinson Sean R. , McGown Tyler , Schlup John R. , Anthony Jennifer L.
Published: October 2013

Infrared spectroscopy is known to be a useful tool for identifying local structure changes in zeolites. Infrared spectroscopy is often employed to complement X-ray diffraction data. Local structure changes in zeolite CIT-6 and its zeolite beta (*BEA) analogs caused by calcination, altering framework composition, and ion exchange have been identified with mid- and far-infrared spectroscopy. Differences in the local structures of the samples were observed in mid- and far-infrared spectra, including changes in the intratetrahedral asymmetric stretch, the double-ring mode, and the intratetrahedral bending mode regions. The infrared spectra indicate that calcination or acetic acid extraction changed the structure of CIT-6 to that of zeolite beta (*BEA). Zinc ion exchange or the substitution of aluminum into the framework structure of acetic acid extracted samples retained the CIT-6 structure.
Lenalidomide Inhibits Lymphangiogenesis in Preclinical Models of Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Song Kai , Herzog Brett H. , Sheng Minjia , Fu Jianxin , McDaniel J. Michael , Ruan Jia , Xia Lijun
Published: October 2013

Lymphomas originate in and spread primarily along the lymphatic system. However, whether lymphatic vessels contribute to the growth and spreading of lymphomas is largely unclear. Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) represents an aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. We found that MCL exhibited abundant intratumor lymphatic vessels. Our results demonstrated that the immunomodulatory drug lenalidomide potently inhibited the growth and dissemination of MCL in a xenograft MCL mouse model, at least in part, by inhibiting functional tumor lymphangiogenesis. Significant numbers of tumor-associated macrophages expressing vascular endothelial growth factor-C were found in both human MCL and mouse MCL xenograft samples. Lenalidomide treatment resulted in a significant reduction in the number of MCL-associated macrophages. In addition, in vivo depletion of monocytes/macrophages impaired functional tumor lymphangiogenesis and inhibited MCL growth and dissemination. Taken together, our results indicate that tumor lymphangiogenesis contributes to the progression of MCL and that lenalidomide is effective in decreasing MCL growth and metastasis most likely by inhibiting recruitment of MCL-associated macrophages. Cancer Res; 73(24); 7254–64. ©2013 AACR.
3′-UTR Poly(T/U) Tract Deletions and Altered Expression of EWSR1 Are a Hallmark of Mismatch Repair–Deficient Cancers
Authors: Kishore Shivendra , Piscuoglio Salvatore , Kovac Michal B. , Gylling Annette , Wenzel Friedel , Trapani Francesca , Altermatt Hans Joerg , Mele Valentina , Marra Giancarlo , Peltomäki Päivi , Terracciano Luigi , Zavolan Mihaela , Heinimann Karl
Published: October 2013

The genome-wide accumulation of DNA replication errors known as microsatellite instability (MSI) is the hallmark lesion of DNA mismatch repair (MMR)–deficient cancers. Although testing for MSI is widely used to guide clinical management, the contribution of MSI at distinct genic loci to the phenotype remains largely unexplored. Here, we report that a mononucleotide (T/U)16 tract located in the 3′ untranslated region (3′-UTR) of the Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1 (EWSR1) gene is a novel MSI target locus that shows perfect sensitivity and specificity in detecting mismatch repair–deficient cancers in two independent populations. We further found a striking relocalization of the EWSR1 protein from nucleus to cytoplasm in MMR-deficient cancers and that the nonprotein-coding MSI target locus itself has a modulatory effect on EWSR1 gene expression through alternative 3′ end processing of the EWSR1 gene. Our results point to a MSI target gene–specific effect in MMR-deficient cancers. Cancer Res; 74(1); 224–34. ©2013 AACR.
Altered T Helper 17 Responses in Children with Food Allergy
Authors: Dhuban Khalid Bin , d'Hennezel Eva , Ben-Shoshan Moshe , McCusker Christine , Clarke Ann , Fiset Pierre , Mazer Bruce , Piccirillo Ciriaco A.
Published: October 2013

Background: While a central role for the T helper (Th) 1/Th2 axis in food allergy has been established, the Th17 response in food-allergic humans has not been addressed. Methods: Th17 responses in 18 peanut-allergic children, who were also allergic to at least one additional food allergen, were assessed relative to 15 age-matched healthy controls. To account for the atopy background in the allergic children, 7 atopic, but not food-allergic, individuals and their age-matched controls were included in this study. PBMCs were analyzed by flow cytometry ex vivo or were stimulated in vitro with peanut allergens, gliadin, or tetanus toxoid followed by analysis of proliferation and cytokine production in antigen-responsive cells. Results: We observed a significantly lower interleukin (IL) 17 production in CD4+ T cells of food-allergic individuals ex vivo (p < 0.02). In vitro, we found that IL-17 production in CD4+ T cells in response to all antigens tested was significantly impaired in food-allergic subjects compared to healthy controls (Ara: p < 0.005; gliadin: p < 0.004; TT: p < 0.03). No significant differences were observed between atopic and nonatopic individuals with no food allergy. Conclusion: Our results thus reveal a systemic, non-allergen-specific defect in Th17 responses to antigen stimulation in food allergic individuals, suggesting a role for Th17 cells in the control of food allergy and implicating IL-17 as a potential biomarker for tolerance to food antigens.
Quality of Life Is More Impaired in Patients Seeking Medical Care for Food Allergy
Authors: Le Thuy-My , Flokstra-de Blok Bertine M.J. , van Hoffen Els , Lebens Ans F.M. , Goossens Nicole J. , Dubois Anthony E.J. , Bruijnzeel-Koomen Carla A.F.M. , Knulst André C.
Published: October 2013

Background: Food allergy (FA) affects 2-4% of adults, but only a small percentage visit an outpatient clinic for a thorough evaluation. Methods: A matched case-control study was used to compare health-related quality of life (HRQL) of the Dutch general population that did not seek medical care for their FA with outpatients who did seek medical care. All participants were diagnosed as food allergic (i.e. with a suggestive history and corresponding positive IgE). HRQL was measured using the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire - Adult Form (FAQLQ-AF). A food allergy independent measure (FAIM) was used to evaluate the adult's perception of the severity of his/her disease. Results: Total FAQLQ-AF score in individuals who never visited a doctor for their FA was significantly lower than that of patients who sought medical care (2.4 vs. 3.9, p = 0.03), indicating that the former had a better quality of life than patients who did seek medical care. Regarding the different domains of FAQLQ, the score for allergen avoidance and dietary restrictions and the score for emotional impact (EI) was significantly higher in the group that sought medical care (p = 0.02 and 0.03, respectively), indicating the importance of these domains. The FAIM score was significantly higher in the group that sought medical care, indicating that they perceived their FA as more severe. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance: Patients who seek medical care for their FA have a more impaired HRQL and perceive their FA as more severe. Food avoidance and issues related to the EI of FA are key areas of intervention aimed at improving HRQL in patients with FA.
The Critical Role of mRNA Destabilizing Protein Heterogeneous Nuclear Ribonucleoprotein D in 3′ Untranslated Region–Mediated Decay of Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor mRNA in Liver Tissue
Authors: Singh Amar Bahadur , Li Hai , Kan Chin Fung Kelvin , Dong Bin , Nicolls Mark R. , Liu Jingwen
Published: October 2013

Objective—

Previous studies showed that low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) mRNA 3′ untranslated region (UTR) contains regulatory elements responsible for rapid mRNA turnover in hepatic cells and mediates the mRNA stabilization induced by berberine (BBR). Here, we elucidate the underlying mechanism of BBR’s action by characterizing mRNA-binding proteins that modulate LDLR mRNA decay via 3′UTR in liver tissue in vivo.

Approach and Results—

We generated a transgenic mouse model (Alb-Luc-UTR) that expresses Luc-LDLR3′UTR reporter gene driven by the albumin promoter to study 3′UTR function in mediating LDLR mRNA decay in liver tissue. We show that treating Alb-Luc-UTR mice with BBR led to significant increases in hepatic bioluminescence signals, Luc-UTR mRNA, and LDLR mRNA levels as compared with control mice. These effects were accompanied by specific reductions of mRNA decay-promoting factor heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D (hnRNP D) in liver of BBR-treated mice. Knockdown and overexpression studies further demonstrated that hnRNP D p37 isoform plays a major role in promoting hepatic LDLR mRNA degradation. In addition, we examined LDLR mRNA half-life, Luc-UTR reporter activity, and hnRNP D expression levels in cell lines derived from extrahepatic tissues. We demonstrated that strengths of 3′UTR in promoting mRNA degradation correlate with hnRNP D cellular abundances in nonhepatic cell lines, thereby suggesting its involvement in LDLR mRNA degradation beyond liver tissue.

Conclusions—

hnRNP D is critically involved in LDLR mRNA degradation in liver tissue in vivo. The inverse relationship of hnRNP D abundance with LDLR mRNA levels after BBR treatment suggests the potential of hnRNP D of being a novel therapeutic target for LDL cholesterol lowering.
Mice Heterozygous for the Xanthine Oxidoreductase Gene Facilitate Lipid Accumulation in Adipocytes
Authors: Murakami Noboru , Ohtsubo Toshio , Kansui Yasuo , Goto Kenichi , Noguchi Hideko , Haga Yoshie , Nakabeppu Yusaku , Matsumura Kiyoshi , Kitazono Takanari
Published: October 2013

Objective—

Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) catalyzes the production of uric acid with concomitant generation of reactive oxygen species. XOR has been shown to regulate adipogenesis through the control of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ, but its role in adipose tissue remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the role of XOR in adipose tissue using
XOR
genetically modified mice.

Approach and Results—

Experiments were performed using 2-, 4-, and 18-month-old XOR heterozygous mice (XOR
+/−
) and their wild-type littermates to evaluate the physiological role of XOR as the mice aged. Stromal vascular fraction cells were prepared from epididymal white adipose tissue in 2-month-old XOR mice to assess adipogenesis. At 18 months, XOR
+/
− mice had significantly higher body weight, higher systolic blood pressure, and higher incidence of insulin resistance compared with wild-type mice. At 4 months, blood glucose and the expressions of CCAAT enhancer–binding protein β, peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and tumor necrosis factor α mRNA in epididymal white adipose tissue were significantly higher in XOR
+/−
than in wild-type mice. Furthermore, histological analysis of epididymal white adipose tissue in XOR
+/−
mice revealed that adipocyte size and the F4/80-positive macrophage count were increased. Experiments with a high-fat diet exhibited that body weight gain was also significantly higher in XOR
+/−
than in wild-type mice. In stromal vascular fraction cells derived from XOR
+/−
mice, the levels of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ, fatty acid–binding protein 4, and CCAAT enhancer–binding protein α mRNA were upregulated, and oxidative stress levels were elevated during differentiation into adipocytes.

Conclusions—

These results suggest that the reduction in
XOR
gene expression in mice augments lipid accumulation in adipocytes, accompanied by an increase in oxidative stress, and induces obesity with insulin resistance in older age.
Activated Protein C Analog Protects From Ischemic Stroke and Extends the Therapeutic Window of Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator in Aged Female Mice and Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Wang Yaoming , Zhao Zhen , Chow Nienwen , Rajput Padmesh S. , Griffin John H. , Lyden Patrick D. , Zlokovic Berislav V.
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose—

3K3A-activated protein C (APC) protects young, healthy male rodents after ischemic stroke. 3K3A-APC is currently under development as a neuroprotectant for acute ischemic stroke in humans. Stroke Therapy Academic Industry Roundtable recommends that after initial studies in young, healthy male animals, further studies should be performed in females, aged animals, and animals with comorbid conditions. Here, we studied the effects of delayed 3KA-APC therapy alone and with tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) in aged female mice and spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Methods—

We used Stroke Therapy Academic Industry Roundtable recommendations for ensuring good scientific inquiry. Murine recombinant 3K3A-APC (0.2 mg/kg) alone or with recombinant tPA (10 mg/kg) was given intravenously 4 hours after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion in aged female mice and rats and after embolic stroke in spontaneously hypertensive rat. 3K3A-APC was additionally administered within 3 to 7 days after stroke. The neuropathological analysis and neurological scores, foot-fault, forelimb asymmetry, and adhesive removal tests were performed within 7 and 28 days of stroke.

Results—

In all models, tPA alone had no effects on the infarct volume or behavior. 3K3A-APC alone or with tPA reduced the infarct volume 7 days after the middle cerebral artery occlusion in aged female mice and embolic stroke in spontaneously hypertensive rat by 62% to 66% and 50% to 53%, respectively, significantly improved (
P
<0.05) behavior, and eliminated tPA-induced intracerebral microhemorrhages. In aged female mice, 3K3A-APC was protective within 4 weeks of stroke.

Conclusions—

3K3A-APC protects from ischemic stroke and extends the therapeutic window of tPA in aged female mice and in spontaneously hypertensive rat with a comorbid condition.
Arabic Conjunct-Sensitive Agreement and Primitive Operations
Authors: Larson Bradley
Published: October 2013

In some Arabic dialects, preverbal coordinated subjects cause plural agreement on the verb while postverbal ones cause either plural agreement or singular agreement. This paradigm has been addressed by Aoun, Benmamoun, and Sportiche ( 1994 , 1999 ) and Munn (1999) , with varying degrees of success. This article offers an alternative to the previous analyses that utilizes the concept of decomposed Merge ( Hornstein 2009 ), whereby Merge is reanalyzed as two suboperations. Previously unexplained cases that flout the paradigm are explained here by a decomposition of the Extension Condition ( Chomsky 1995 ) and a derivational account of pronoun binding across coordination.
A Note on P-Stranding and Adjunct Extraction from Nominals
Authors: Larson Bradley , Hornstein Norbert
Published: October 2013

Bošković ( 2005 , 2008 ) outlines a phase-based analysis of adjunct extraction in determinerless languages like Serbo-Croatian (SC). The analysis is modeled on recent phase-based analyses of P(reposition)-stranding (see Abels 2003 , 2012 ) wherein the richness of the functional structure of the PP determines whether extraction is possible. This squib identifies a problem for a unified analysis of these two phenomena. Bans on adjunct extraction are obviated under sluicing while bans on P-stranding are not.
Ten new species of lichenized Basidiomycota in the genera Dictyonema and Cora (Agaricales: Hygrophoraceae), with a key to all accepted genera and species in the Dictyonema clade
Authors: Lücking Robert , Dal-Forno Manuela , Lawrey James D. , Bungartz Frank , Rojas María E. Holgado , Hernández M. Jesús E. , Marcelli Marcelo P. , Moncada Bibiana , MORALES EDUARDO A. , Nelsen Matthew P. , Paz Elias , Salcedo Luis , Spielmann Adriano A. , Wilk Karina , Will-Wolf Susan , YÁNEZ-AYABACA Alba
Published: October 2013

As part of a larger systematic and taxonomic revision, including molecular phylogenetic analysis, of lichenized Basidiomycota in the Dictyonema clade, ten species are described as new from tropical America, seven in the foliose genus Cora and three in the filamentous genus Dictyonema: Cora arachnoidea J. E. Hern. & Lücking, sp. nov., C. aspera Wilk, Lücking & E. Morales, sp. nov., C. byssoidea Lücking & Moncada, sp. nov., C. cyphellifera Dal-Forno, Bungartz & Lücking, sp. nov., C. inversa Lücking & Moncada, sp. nov., C. squamiformis Wilk, Lücking & Yánez-Ayabaca, sp. nov., C. strigosa Lücking, E. Paz & L. Salcedo, sp. nov., Dictyonema aeruginosulum Lücking, Nelsen & Will-Wolf, sp. nov., D. diducens Nyl. ex Lücking, sp. nov., D. metallicum Lücking, Dal-Forno & Lawrey, sp. nov., and D. obscuratum Lücking, Spielmann & Marcelli, sp. nov. We discuss the taxonomic status of the six names historically established for species belonging in the genus Cora and reinstate the names C. gyrolophia Fr., C. pavonia (Sw.) Fr., and C. reticulifera Vain., providing diagnostic features for these, whereas the status of C. glabrata (Spreng.) Fr. and C. bovei Speg. remains uncertain. The following new combinations are introduced: Cora hirsuta (Moncada & Lücking) Moncada & Lücking, comb. nov., C. minor (Lücking, E. Navarro & Sipman) Lücking, comb. nov., Corella melvinii (Chaves, Lücking & Umaña) Lücking, Dal-Forno & Lawrey, comb. nov., Cyphellostereum phyllogenum (Müll. Arg.) Lücking, Dal-Forno & Lawrey, comb. nov., Dictyonema caespitosum (Johow) Lücking, comb. nov., D. irrigatum (Berk. & M. A. Curtis) Lücking, comb. nov., D. phyllophilum (Parmasto) Lücking, Dal-Forno & Lawrey, comb. et stat. nov., and D. scabridum (Vain.) Lücking, comb. et stat. nov. Keys are presented to the five currently accepted genera and 40 currently recognized species in the genera Cyphellostereum, Dictyonema, Cora, and Corella.
Observations on the Biology of Afrotropical Hesperiidae (Lepidoptera). Part 5. Hesperiinae incertae sedis: Dicotyledon Feeders
Authors: COCK MATTHEW J. W. , CONGDON T. COLIN E.
Published: October 2013

Partial life histories of 24 Hesperiinae incertae sedis that feed on Dicotyledons are described and illustrated. The genera dealt with are: Acada, Acleros, Andronymus, Fresna, Gorgyra, Melphinyet, Meza, Paronymus, Parosmodes, Platylesches, and Teniorhinus. The food plants of Gorgyra (mainly Connaraceae), Melphinyet (Euphorbiaceae) and Platylesches (Chrysobalanaceae) stand out as clearly distinct from those of the other six genera, which share one or two food plant families with each other. Thus four genera include Fabaceae in their food plants, two include Sapindaceae, two include Combretaceae, and Andronymus includes all three. Ova are only reported for five genera, but they do point to some significant differences: Gorgyra, Parosmodes and Platylesches are different from each other, and different from Acleros and Andronymus. The features of the caterpillars do not indicate clear patterns. The pupal shelters point to Parosmodes and Melphinyet showing some affinity and certainly differ from all others. Acleros and Andronymus have similar pupal shelters, and in common with Meza (dicotyledon-feeding species) and Fresna, the pupal chamber is not closed and the pupa rests on the leaf upper surface. The pupae of Gorgyra differ from all others. The pupae of Acleros and Andronymus have their colouring in common, probably reflecting their very similar pupal shelters. Similarly the pupae and shelters of Meza (dicotyledon-feeding species) and Fresna seem analogous. The other pupae, hidden in their shelters are less differentiated, although the completely wax-free shelter of Acada is superficially different. We conclude that the likeliest scenario is that in the Afrotropical Region members of the Hesperiinae incertae sedis have made the switch from monocotyledons to dicotyledons several times, and then radiated.
ENSO Effect on East Asian Tropical Cyclone Landfall via Changes in Tracks and Genesis in a Statistical Model
Authors: Yonekura Emmi , Hall Timothy M.
Published: October 2013

Improvements on a statistical tropical cyclone (TC) track model in the western North Pacific Ocean are described. The goal of the model is to study the effect of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on East Asian TC landfall. The model is based on the International Best-Track Archive for Climate Stewardship (IBTrACS) database of TC observations for 1945–2007 and employs local regression of TC formation rates and track increments on the Niño-3.4 index and seasonally varying climate parameters. The main improvements are the inclusion of ENSO dependence in the track propagation and accounting for seasonality in both genesis and tracks. A comparison of simulations of the 1945–2007 period with observations concludes that the model updates improve the skill of this model in simulating TCs. Changes in TC genesis and tracks are analyzed separately and cumulatively in simulations of stationary extreme ENSO states. ENSO effects on regional (100-km scale) landfall are attributed to changes in genesis and tracks. The effect of ENSO on genesis is predominantly a shift in genesis location from the southeast in El Niño years to the northwest in La Niña years, resulting in higher landfall rates for the East Asian coast during La Niña. The effect of ENSO on track propagation varies seasonally and spatially. In the peak activity season (July–October), there are significant changes in mean tracks with ENSO. Landfall-rate changes from genesis– and track–ENSO effects in the Philippines cancel out, while coastal segments of Vietnam, China, the Korean Peninsula, and Japan show enhanced La Niña–year increases.
Underlying Low-Order Dynamics of Nonlinear Interaction among Northern Hemisphere Teleconnection Patterns and Its Association with the AO/NAM
Authors: Zhao Nan , Liang Sujie , Ding Yihui
Published: October 2013

Studies on the nonlinear natures of the spatiotemporal structure of the Arctic Oscillation/Northern Hemisphere annular mode (AO/NAM) in the context of nonlinear interaction among the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), the Pacific–North American pattern (PNA), and the stratospheric polar vortex (SPV) are performed. The non-Gaussianity of the multivariate probability density function (PDF) in the phase space spanned by their indices is examined first. Five local maxima potentially related to circulation regimes are identified from the so-called angular PDF. One opposite pair of these regimes is found to correspond to the positive and negative phases of the AO/NAM. Since the authors are not sure that, due to uncertainty as suggested by statistical tests, some of the above regimes are non-Gaussian, the nonlinearity of phase-space tendency is employed as an assistant measure to identify them as nonlinear modes. It seems phase-space tendency traditionally estimated from time difference failed to be effective because of its dependence on Δt. To overcome this drawback a low-order stochastic dynamical model is established empirically from the indices. The investigation on the basic deterministic dynamics of this model suggests that the existence of regimes, such as those associated with the AO/NAM, can primarily be explained by its nonlinear deterministic part. However, two problems still remain unsolved: 1) one of the local maxima was almost not identified and 2) life cycles of the basic deterministic dynamics are too long to be related to the low-frequency variability. By introducing a multilevel approach of modeling, further insight into the residual noise of the above stochastic model can address these two issues quite well.
On the Transition from Profile Altimeter to Swath Altimeter for Observing Global Ocean Surface Topography
Authors: Fu Lee-Lueng , Ubelmann Clement
Published: October 2013

Conventional radar altimeter makes measurement of sea surface height (SSH) in one-dimensional profiles along the ground tracks of a satellite. Such profiles are combined via various mapping techniques to construct two-dimensional SSH maps, providing a valuable data record over the past two decades for studying the global ocean circulation and sea level change. However, the spatial resolution of the SSH is limited by both coarse sampling across the satellite tracks and the instrument error in the profile measurements. A new satellite mission based on radar interferometry offers the capability of making high-resolution wide-swath measurement of SSH. This mission is called Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT), which will demonstrate the application of swath altimeter to both oceanography and land hydrology. This paper presents a brief introduction to the design of SWOT, its performance specification for SSH, and the anticipated spatial resolution and coverage, demonstrating the promise of SWOT for fundamental advancement in observing SSH. A main objective of the paper is to address issues in the anticipated transition of conventional profile altimetry to swath altimetry in the future—in particular, the need for consistency of the new observing system with the old for extending the existing data record into the future. A viable approach is to carry a profile altimeter in the SWOT payload to provide calibration and validation of the new measurement against the old at large scales. This is the baseline design of SWOT. The unique advantages of the approach are discussed in the context of a new standard for observing the global SSH in the future.
Ethnic diversity and informal intra- and inter-ethnic contacts with neighbours in The Netherlands
Authors: Huijts Tim , Kraaykamp Gerbert , Scheepers Peer
Published: October 2013

We have examined the extent to which ethnic diversity in neighbourhoods and municipalities in The Netherlands is related to personal contact with neighbours from ethnic in-groups and out-groups among the native majority as well as among ethnic minorities. The results indicate that ethnic diversity is negatively related to personal contacts with native neighbours, but positively to personal contacts with neighbours from other ethnic groups. This applies equally to native respondents and Turks and Moroccans, rejecting Putnam’s hunkering-down hypothesis and ethnic competition theory. Instead, ethnic diversity increases meeting opportunities with ethnic minorities while decreasing meeting opportunities with the native majority.