bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shock and lethality with anthrax edema toxin in rats are associated with reduced arterial responsiveness to phenylephrine and are reversed with adefovir
Authors: Suffredini Dante A. , Li Yan , Xu Wanying , Moayeri Mahtab , Leppla Stephen , Fitz Yvonne , Cui Xizhong , Eichacker Peter Q.
Published: September 2017

Although edema toxin (ETx) and lethal toxin (LTx) contribute to Bacillus anthracis shock and lethality, the mechanisms underlying their cardiovascular effects are unclear. We have previously shown that ETx but not LTx inhibited phenylephrine-stimulated contraction of aortic rings prepared from healthy rats and that adefovir, a selective inhibitor of ETx cAMP production, blocked this effect. Here, we examined arterial function in rats that received 24-h ETx or LTx infusions. Compared with control rats, ETx reduced mean arterial pressure (MAP) and survival over 48 h ( P ≤ 0.0003) and increased plasma cAMP at 4, 24, and 48 h ( P < 0.0001) and nitric oxide (NO) at 24 and 48 h ( P ≤ 0.01). Compared with control animals, at 24- and 48-h phenylephrine stimulation of aortic rings from ETx animals produced decreased maximal contractile force (MCF; P = 0.05 and 0.006) and in vivo phenylephrine infusion in ETx animals produced decreased proportional increases in MAP ( P < 0.0001 and P = 0.05). In ETx-treated animals, compared with placebo-treated animals, adefovir treatment prevented all lethality ( P = 0.01), increased MAP ( P ≤ 0.0001), decreased plasma and aortic tissue cAMP at 24 and 48 h, respectively ( P ≤ 0.03), and plasma NO at both times ( P ≤ 0.004), and increased phenylephrine-stimulated increases in MCF in aortic rings and MAP in vivo at 48 h ( P = 0.02). LTx decreased MAP and survival also, but it did not alter the response to phenylephrine of MCF in aortic rings prepared from LTx animals or of MAP in vivo. In conclusion, in rats, hypotension and lethality are associated with reduced arterial contractile function with ETx but not LTx and adefovir improves ETx-induced hypotension and lethality.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The most important aspects of the present study are the findings that 1) in vivo challenge with anthrax edema but not lethal toxin depresses arterial contractile function measured both ex vivo and in vivo and 2) adefovir inhibits the effects of edema toxin on arterial hypotension and improves survival with lethal dose of edema toxin challenge.
Skeletal muscle mitochondrial protein synthesis and respiration in response to the energetic stress of an ultra-endurance race
Authors: Konopka Adam R. , Castor William M. , Wolff Christopher A. , Musci Robert V. , Reid Justin J. , Laurin Jaime L. , Valenti Zackary J. , Hamilton Karyn L. , Miller Benjamin F.
Published: September 2017

The 2016 Colorado Trail Race (CTR) was an ultra-endurance mountain bike race in which competitors cycled for up to 24 h/day between altitudes of 1,675 and 4,025 m to complete 800 km and 21,000 m of elevation gain. In one athlete, we had the unique opportunity to characterize skeletal muscle protein synthesis and mitochondrial respiration in response to a normal activity control period (CON) and the CTR. We hypothesized that mitochondrial protein synthesis would be elevated and mitochondrial respiration would be maintained during the extreme stresses of the CTR. Titrated and bolus doses of ADP were provided to determine substrate-specific oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and electron transport system (ETS) capacities in permeabilized muscle fibers via high-resolution respirometry. Protein synthetic rates were determined by daily oral consumption of deuterium oxide (2H2O). The endurance athlete had OXPHOS (226 pmol·s−1·mg tissue−1) and ETS (231 pmol·s−1·mg tissue−1) capacities that rank among the highest published to date in humans. Mitochondrial (3.2-fold), cytoplasmic (2.3-fold), and myofibrillar (1.5-fold) protein synthesis rates were greater during CTR compared with CON. With titrated ADP doses, the apparent Km of ADP, OXPHOS, and ETS increased after the CTR. With provision of ADP boluses after the CTR, the addition of fatty acids (−12 and −14%) mitigated the decline in OXPHOS and ETS capacity during carbohydrate-supported respiration (−26 and −31%). In the face of extreme stresses during the CTR, elevated rates of mitochondrial protein synthesis may contribute to rapid adaptations in mitochondrial bioenergetics.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The mechanisms that maintain skeletal muscle function during extreme stresses remain incompletely understood. In the current study, greater rates of mitochondrial protein synthesis during the energetic demands of ultra-endurance exercise may contribute to rapid adaptations in mitochondrial bioenergetics. The endurance athlete herein achieved mitochondrial respiratory capacities among the highest published for humans. Greater mitochondrial protein synthesis during ultra-endurance exercise may contribute to improved mitochondrial respiration and serve as a mechanism to resist cellular energetic stresses.
Transplantation of iPS-Derived Tumor Cells with a Homozygous MHC Haplotype Induces GRP94 Antibody Production in MHC-Matched Macaques
Authors: Ishigaki Hirohito , Maeda Toshinaga , Inoue Hirokazu , Akagi Tsuyoshi , Sasamura Takako , Ishida Hideaki , Inubushi Toshiro , Okahara Junko , Shiina Takashi , Nakayama Misako , Itoh Yasushi , Ogasawara Kazumasa
Published: September 2017

Immune surveillance is a critical component of the antitumor response in vivo, yet the specific components of the immune system involved in this regulatory response remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that autoantibodies can mitigate tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. We generated two cancer cell lines, embryonal carcinoma and glioblastoma cell lines, from monkey-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) carrying a homozygous haplotype of major histocompatibility complex (MHC, Mafa in Macaca fascicularis). To establish a monkey cancer model, we transplanted these cells into monkeys carrying the matched Mafa haplotype in one of the chromosomes. Neither Mafa-homozygous cancer cell line grew in monkeys carrying the matched Mafa haplotype heterozygously. We detected in the plasma of these monkeys an IgG autoantibody against GRP94, a heat shock protein. Injection of the plasma prevented growth of the tumor cells in immunodeficient mice, whereas plasma IgG depleted of GRP94 IgG exhibited reduced killing activity against cancer cells in vitro. These results indicate that humoral immunity, including autoantibodies against GRP94, plays a role in cancer immune surveillance. Cancer Res; 77(21); 6001–10. ©2017 AACR.
Complete Regrowth of Beard Hair with Ruxolitinib in an Alopecia Universalis Patient
Authors: Ramot Yuval , Zlotogorski Abraham
Published: September 2017

While most alopecia areata (AA) cases resolve spontaneously, the more severe types of AA, alopecia totalis (AT) and alopecia universalis (AU), can be highly resistant to therapy. We report on a 33-year-old ultraorthodox Jewish man with an 11-year history of AA that resulted in complete loss of the scalp and body hair 7 years ago. Previous treatments with intralesional and systemic corticosteroids had only partial and temporary effects. The patient was treated with ruxolitinib, 20 mg twice daily, resulting in complete growth of the beard after 4 months of treatment. The beard has a special significance for ultraorthodox Jews, and loss of the beard hair can have marked social and psychological consequences in AA patients. The Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have recently emerged as an effective treatment modality in AA, including the more severe forms, such as AT or AU. This report highlights the beneficial effects of the JAK inhibitors, especially in populations where the hair has a special importance due to cultural and religious backgrounds.
Buccal Epithelium, Cigarette Smoking, and Lung Cancer: Review of the Literature
Authors: Saba Raya , Halytskyy Oleksandr , Saleem Nasir , Oliff Ira A.
Published: September 2017

Lung cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among men and women in the United States, and optimal screening methods are still lacking. The field effect is a well-supported phenomenon wherein a noxious stimulus triggers genetic, epigenetic and molecular changes that are widespread throughout the entire exposed organ system. The buccal epithelium is an easily accessible part of the respiratory tree that has good potential of yielding a surrogate marker for the field effect in cigarette smokers, and thus, a noninvasive, reliable lung cancer screening method. Herein, we review the literature on the relationship between the buccal epithelium, cigarette smoking, and lung cancer.
Significant Improvement of Clinical Symptoms, Bone Lesions, and Bone Turnover after Long-Term Zoledronic Acid Treatment in Patients with a Severe Form of Camurati-Engelmann Disease
Authors: Baroncelli Giampiero I. , Ferretti Elena , Pini Cecilia M. , Toschi Benedetta , Consolini Rita , Bertelloni Silvano
Published: September 2017

Camurati-Engelmann disease (CED) is an ultrarare autosomal dominant bone dysplasia. Cortical thickening of the diaphyses of the long bones with narrowing of the medullary cavity are associated with bone pain, waddling gait, muscular weakness, easy fatigability, and a marfanoid body habitus. There is no specific treatment for CED. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or glucocorticoids are ineffective in improving bone lesions. A family with a mild to severe form of CED is described. Two patients received long-term bisphosphonate treatment: the 19-year-old female proband was treated with zoledronic acid for 2.2 years; the 4-year-old male proband was treated with neridronic acid for 16 months and with zoledronic acid for an additional 18 months. In both probands, zoledronic acid treatment significantly improved the clinical symptoms, bone lesions, ambulation, and body habitus. Before treatment, both probands showed a marked increase in serum levels of osteocalcin, procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide, and cross-linked carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen, reflecting an increased bone turnover. Bone marker levels returned to their normal values during treatment. Zoledronic acid treatment may be an important therapeutic option in patients with severe CED. Biochemical markers of bone turnover could be considered as surrogate indexes of CED activity.
Class III PI3K Positively Regulates Platelet Activation and Thrombosis via PI(3)P-Directed Function of NADPH Oxidase
Authors: Liu Yangyang , Hu Mengjiao , Luo Dongjiao , Yue Ming , Wang Shuai , Chen Xiaoyan , Zhou Yangfan , Wang Yi , Cai Yanchun , Hu Xiaolan , Ke Yuehai , Yang Zhongzhou , Hu Hu
Published: September 2017

Objective—

Class III phosphoinositide 3-kinase, also known as VPS34 (vacuolar protein sorting 34), is a highly conserved enzyme regulating important cellular functions such as NADPH oxidase (NOX) assembly, membrane trafficking, and autophagy. Although VPS34 is expressed in platelets, its involvement in platelet activation remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the role of VPS34 in platelet activation and thrombus formation using VPS34 knockout mice.

Approach and Results—

Platelet-specific VPS34-deficient mice were generated and characterized. VPS34 deficiency in platelets did not influence tail bleeding time. In a ferric chloride–induced mesenteric arteriolar thrombosis model, VPS34
−/−
mice exhibited a prolonged vessel occlusion time compared with wild-type mice (42.05±4.09 versus 18.30±2.47 minutes). In an in vitro microfluidic whole-blood perfusion assay, thrombus formation on collagen under arterial shear was significantly reduced for VPS34
−/−
platelets. VPS34
−/−
platelets displayed an impaired aggregation and dense granule secretion in response to low doses of collagen or thrombin. VPS34 deficiency delayed clot retraction but did not influence platelet spreading on fibrinogen. We also demonstrated that VPS34 deficiency altered the basal level of autophagy in resting platelets and hampered NOX assembly and mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) signaling during platelet activation. Importantly, we identified the NOX-dependent reactive oxygen species generation as the major downstream effector of VPS34, which in turn can mediate platelet activation. In addition, by using a specific inhibitor 3-methyladenine, VPS34 was found to operate through a similar NOX-dependent mechanism to promote human platelet activation.

Conclusions—

Platelet VPS34 is critical for thrombosis but dispensable for hemostasis. VPS34 regulates platelet activation by influencing NOX assembly.
Genetic Ablation of MicroRNA-33 Attenuates Inflammation and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Formation via Several Anti-Inflammatory Pathways
Authors: Nakao Tetsushi , Horie Takahiro , Baba Osamu , Nishiga Masataka , Nishino Tomohiro , Izuhara Masayasu , Kuwabara Yasuhide , Nishi Hitoo , Usami Shunsuke , Nakazeki Fumiko , Ide Yuya , Koyama Satoshi , Kimura Masahiro , Sowa Naoya , Ohno Satoko , Aoki Hiroki , Hasegawa Koji , Sakamoto Kazuhisa , Minatoya Kenji , Kimura Takeshi , Ono Koh
Published: September 2017

Objective—

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an increasingly prevalent and ultimately fatal disease with no effective pharmacological treatment. Because matrix degradation induced by vascular inflammation is the major pathophysiology of AAA, attenuation of this inflammation may improve its outcome. Previous studies suggested that miR-33 (microRNA-33) inhibition and genetic ablation of miR-33 increased serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and attenuated atherosclerosis.

Approach and Results—

MiR-33a-5p expression in central zone of human AAA was higher than marginal zone. MiR-33 deletion attenuated AAA formation in both mouse models of angiotensin II– and calcium chloride–induced AAA. Reduced macrophage accumulation and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 expression were observed in calcium chloride–induced AAA walls in miR-33
−/−
mice. In vitro experiments revealed that peritoneal macrophages from miR-33
−/−
mice showed reduced matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression levels via c-Jun N-terminal kinase inactivation. Primary aortic vascular smooth muscle cells from miR-33
−/−
mice showed reduced monocyte chemotactic protein-1 expression by p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase attenuation. Both of the inactivation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase were possibly because of the increase of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 that is a well-known target of miR-33. Moreover, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol derived from miR-33
−/−
mice reduced expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 in macrophages and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 in vascular smooth muscle cells. Bone marrow transplantation experiments indicated that miR-33–deficient bone marrow cells ameliorated AAA formation in wild-type recipients. MiR-33 deficiency in recipient mice was also shown to contribute the inhibition of AAA formation.

Conclusions—

These data strongly suggest that inhibition of miR-33 will be effective as a novel strategy for treating AAA.
CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Gene Editing in Human iPSC-Derived Macrophage Reveals Lysosomal Acid Lipase Function in Human Macrophages—Brief Report
Authors: Zhang Hanrui , Shi Jianting , Hachet Melanie A. , Xue Chenyi , Bauer Robert C. , Jiang Hongfeng , Li Wenjun , Tohyama Junichiro , Millar John , Billheimer Jeffrey , Phillips Michael C. , Razani Babak , Rader Daniel J. , Reilly Muredach P.
Published: September 2017

Objective—

To gain mechanistic insights into the role of
LIPA
(lipase A), the gene encoding LAL (lysosomal acid lipase) protein, in human macrophages.

Approach and Results—

We used CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/Cas9 (CRISPR–associated protein 9) technology to knock out
LIPA
in human induced pluripotent stem cells and then differentiate to macrophage (human-induced pluripotent stem cells–derived macrophage [IPSDM]) to explore the human macrophage
LIPA
loss-of-function phenotypes.
LIPA
was abundantly expressed in monocyte-derived macrophages and was markedly induced on IPSDM differentiation to comparable levels as in human monocyte–derived macrophage. IPSDM with knockout of
LIPA
(
LIPA
−/−
) had barely detectable LAL enzymatic activity. Control and
LIPA
−/−
IPSDM were loaded with [
3
H]-cholesteryl oleate–labeled AcLDL (acetylated low-density lipoprotein) followed by efflux to apolipoprotein A-I. Efflux of liberated [
3
H]-cholesterol to apolipoprotein A-I was abolished in
LIPA
−/−
IPSDM, indicating deficiency in LAL-mediated lysosomal cholesteryl ester hydrolysis. In cells loaded with [
3
H]-cholesterol–labeled AcLDL, [
3
H]-cholesterol efflux was, however, not different between control and
LIPA
−/−
IPSDM.
ABCA1
(ATP-binding cassette, subfamily A, member 1) expression was upregulated by AcLDL loading but to a similar extent between control and
LIPA
−/−
IPSDM. In nonlipid loaded state,
LIPA
−/−
IPSDM had high levels of cholesteryl ester mass compared with minute amounts in control IPSDM. Yet, with AcLDL loading, overall cholesteryl ester mass was increased to similar levels in both control and
LIPA
−/−
IPSDM.
LIPA
−/−
did not impact lysosomal apolipoprotein-B degradation or expression of
IL1B
,
IL6
, and
CCL5.

Conclusions—

LIPA
−/−
IPSDM reveals macrophage-specific hallmarks of
LIPA
deficiency. CRISPR/Cas9 and IPSDM provide important tools to study human macrophage biology and more broadly for future studies of disease-associated
LIPA
genetic variation in human macrophages.
Potential Cardiovascular and Total Mortality Benefits of Air Pollution Control in Urban China
Authors: Huang Chen , Moran Andrew E. , Coxson Pamela G. , Yang Xueli , Liu Fangchao , Cao Jie , Chen Kai , Wang Miao , He Jiang , Goldman Lee , Zhao Dong , Kinney Patrick L. , Gu Dongfeng
Published: September 2017

Background:

Outdoor air pollution ranks fourth among preventable causes of China’s burden of disease. We hypothesized that the magnitude of health gains from air quality improvement in urban China could compare with achieving recommended blood pressure or smoking control goals.

Methods:

The Cardiovascular Disease Policy Model–China projected coronary heart disease, stroke, and all-cause deaths in urban Chinese adults 35 to 84 years of age from 2017 to 2030 if recent air quality (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 µm, PM
2.5
) and traditional cardiovascular risk factor trends continue. We projected life-years gained if urban China were to reach 1 of 3 air quality goals: Beijing Olympic Games level (mean PM
2.5
, 55 μg/m
3
), China Class II standard (35 μg/m
3
), or World Health Organization standard (10 μg/m
3
). We compared projected air pollution reduction control benefits with potential benefits of reaching World Health Organization hypertension and tobacco control goals.

Results:

Mean PM
2.5
reduction to Beijing Olympic levels by 2030 would gain ≈241,000 (95% uncertainty interval, 189 000–293 000) life-years annually. Achieving either the China Class II or World Health Organization PM
2.5
standard would yield greater health benefits (992 000 [95% uncertainty interval, 790 000–1 180 000] or 1 827 000 [95% uncertainty interval, 1 481 00–2 129 000] annual life-years gained, respectively) than World Health Organization–recommended goals of 25% improvement in systolic hypertension control and 30% reduction in smoking combined (928 000 [95% uncertainty interval, 830 000–1 033 000] life-years).

Conclusions:

Air quality improvement in different scenarios could lead to graded health benefits ranging from 241 000 life-years gained to much greater benefits equal to or greater than the combined benefits of 25% improvement in systolic hypertension control and 30% smoking reduction.
Prospective Association of Physical Activity and Heart Failure Hospitalizations Among Black Adults With Normal Ejection Fraction: The Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Koo Patrick , Gjelsvik Annie , Choudhary Gaurav , Wu Wen‐Chih , Wang Wei , McCool F. Dennis , Eaton Charles B.
Published: September 2017

Background

Given high rates of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus, black persons are at risk to develop heart failure. The association of moderate to vigorous physical activity (
MVPA
) and heart failure in black adults is underresearched. The purpose of this study was to explore whether greater
MVPA
was associated with lower risk of heart failure hospitalizations (HFHs) among black adults with normal ejection fractions.

Methods and Results

We performed a prospective analysis of 4066 black adults who participated in the Jackson Heart Study and who had physical activity measured, had normal ejection fraction on 2‐dimensional echocardiograms, and were followed for 7 years for incident HFH. We used Cox proportional regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, smoking status, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary heart disease, atrial fibrillation, and chronic kidney disease and examined effect modification by sex and body mass index. Of the eligible population, 1925 participants, according to the duration of
MVPA
, had poor health (0 minutes/week), 1332 had intermediate health (1–149 minutes/week), and 809 had ideal health (≥150 minutes/week). There were 168 incident
HFHs
. MVPA for intermediate and ideal health was associated with decreasing risk of incident
HFH
(hazard ratio: 0.70 [95% confidence interval, 49–1.00] and 0.35 [95% confidence interval, 0.19–0.64], respectively;
P
trend
=0.003). The full model revealed hazard ratios of 0.74 [95% confidence interval, 0.52–1.07] and 0.41 [95% confidence interval, 0.22–0.74], respectively. There was no effect modification between
MVPA
and body mass index or sex on incident
HFH
.

Conclusions

A dose‐response relationship between increasing levels of
MVPA
and protection from incident
HFH
was found in black men and women with normal ejection fractions.
Two new species of cave crickets Endecous (Notoendecous) Gorochov, 2014 (Orthoptera: Grylloidea: Phalangopsidae) from northeastern Brazil
Authors: CASTRO-SOUZA RODRIGO ANTÔNIO , ZEFA EDISON , FERREIRA RODRIGO LOPES
Published: September 2017

The current work presents the description of two Brazilian new species of the subgenus Endecous (Notendecous) Gorochov, 2014 recorded for the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. The morphology of phallic complex was used as main criterion for distinguishing the two species. Furthermore, aspects on the natural history, intraspecific variation and a pictorial key are presented considering the species known for this subgenus.
Estimation of the SST Response to Anthropogenic and External Forcing and Its Impact on the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation
Authors: Frankignoul Claude , Gastineau Guillaume , Kwon Young-Oh
Published: September 2017

Two large ensembles (LEs) of historical climate simulations are used to compare how various statistical methods estimate the sea surface temperature (SST) changes due to anthropogenic and other external forcing, and how their removal affects the internally generated Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO), Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), and the SST footprint of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC). Removing the forced SST signal by subtracting the global mean SST (GM) or a linear regression on it (REGR) leads to large errors in the Pacific. Multidimensional ensemble empirical mode decomposition (MEEMD) and quadratic detrending only efficiently remove the forced SST signal in one LE, and cannot separate the short-term response to volcanic eruptions from natural SST variations. Removing a linear trend works poorly. Two methods based on linear inverse modeling (LIM), one where the leading LIM mode represents the forced signal and another using an optimal perturbation filter (LIMopt), perform consistently well. However, the first two LIM modes are sometimes needed to represent the forced signal, so the more robust LIMopt is recommended. In both LEs, the natural AMO variability seems largely driven by the AMOC in the subpolar North Atlantic, but not in the subtropics and tropics, and the scatter in the AMOC–AMO correlation is large between individual ensemble members. In three observational SST reconstructions for 1900–2015, linear and quadratic detrending, MEEMD, and GM yield somewhat different AMO behavior, and REGR yields smaller PDO amplitudes. Based on LIMopt, only about 30% of the AMO variability is internally generated, as opposed to more than 90% for the PDO. The natural SST variability contribution to global warming hiatus is discussed.
Projected Changes in the Arctic Frontal Zone and Summer Arctic Cyclone Activity in the CESM Large Ensemble
Authors: Crawford Alex D. , Serreze Mark C.
Published: September 2017

The Arctic frontal zone (AFZ) is a narrow band of strong horizontal temperature gradients that develops along the Arctic Ocean coastline each summer in response to differential heating of the atmosphere over adjacent land and ocean surfaces. Past research has linked baroclinicity within the AFZ to summer Arctic cyclone development, especially by intensifying storms that migrate northward from the Eurasian continent. This study uses the Community Earth System Model Large Ensemble in conjunction with an advanced cyclone detection and tracking algorithm to assess how the AFZ, summer Arctic cyclone activity, and the relationship between them respond to warming under the representative concentration pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5) scenario. Under this strong warming scenario, the AFZ remains a significant cyclone intensifier. Changes to the AFZ are largely restricted to June, when earlier snowmelt leads to strengthening of land–ocean temperature contrasts. This strengthening is accompanied by enhanced cyclogenesis along the east Siberian coast, but no change is observed for overall cyclone frequency over the Arctic Ocean. However, simultaneous changes to subpolar storm tracks impact Arctic cyclone activity in all summer months, sometimes in opposition to the impact of the AFZ. In June, the storms migrating poleward to the Arctic Ocean become weaker under RCP8.5, leading to lower Arctic cyclone intensity. In July and August, the poleward shift of the North Pacific storm track enhances cyclone activity in the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas.
Accurate Detection of Streptococcus pyogenes at the Point of Care Using the cobas Liat Strep A Nucleic Acid Test
Authors: Wang Fangnian , Tian Yu , Chen Lingjun , Luo Robert , Sickler Joanna , Liesenfeld Oliver , Chen Shuqi
Published: September 2017

The performance of a polymerase chain reaction–based point-of-care assay, the cobas Strep A Nucleic Acid Test for use on the cobas Liat System (cobas Liat Strep A assay), for the detection of group A Streptococcus bacteria was evaluated in primary care settings. Throat swab specimens from 427 patients were tested with the cobas Liat Strep A assay and a rapid antigen detection test (RADT) by existing medical staff at 5 primary care clinics, and results were compared with bacterial culture. The cobas Liat Strep A assay demonstrated equivalent sensitivity (97.7%) and specificity (93.3%) to reference culture with a 15-minute turnaround time. In comparison to RADTs, the cobas Liat Strep A assay showed improved sensitivity (97.7% Liat vs 84.5% RADT). The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments–waived cobas Liat Strep A assay demonstrated the ease of use and improved turnaround time of RADTs along with the sensitivity of culture.
Expanding role boundary management theory: How volunteering highlights contextually shifting strategies and collapsing work–life role boundaries
Authors: Cruz Disraelly , Meisenbach Rebecca
Published: September 2017

Despite interest in expanding work–family research to focus on work–life issues, few scholars have addressed non-family life enrichment roles and their potential additional forms of and issues for boundary management. Using in-depth qualitative interviews, this study investigates the management of under-researched work–life boundaries by focusing on how volunteers communicatively manage the volunteer role in light of work and home demands. The findings suggest new boundary management processes. Specifically, in addition to the established segmenting and integrating processes, the volunteers also articulated a process of collapsing boundaries. This latter new category is manifested in two forms, named simultaneous role enactment and role value fusion. Furthermore, findings highlight how rather than only enacting one stance, individuals described contextually dependent, shifting ways of managing multiple life roles. These findings have implications for how scholars study work–life management, how practitioners seek to recruit members, and how volunteers and organizational employees make membership decisions.
Omenala: Toward an African-Centered Ecophilosophy and Political Ecology
Authors: Densu Kwasi
Published: September 2017

This article seeks to contribute to the reconstruction of an African-centered ecophilosophy and political ecology. Employing Cheikh Anta Diop’s theory of African cultural unity, it considers the Ndi Igbo philosophy Omenala, its paradigmatic implications for Africana studies, and its capacity to demonstrate the continuity of indigenous African socioecological praxis cross culturally. In addition, it explores the relevance of Omenala to the development of an authentic social history of African people and as a theory to analyze contemporary problems in the African world. Three key issues are addressed. First, the article accounts for the absence of ecological theory within Africana studies. Second, it explicates the cultural and philosophical basis for an African-centered ecophilosophy and political ecology. Third, it envisions new approaches and areas of inquiry within Africana studies.
Comparison of yield components and quality factors of sweet corn under different irrigation scheduling strategies
Authors: Córcoles H López , de Juan JA , Picornell MR
Published: September 2017

Rising energy costs, declining groundwater supplies, increasing competition for water resources between agricultural, industrial and domestic users and irrigation-induced water quality problems are providing considerable impetus to improving efficiency in irrigated agriculture. Much of the groundwater used for irrigation is found in closed underground basins. Water percolation is the only source of water available for recharge. In some basins, the pumping rate is much greater than the recharge from percolation and ‘water mining’ occurs. The aim of this study was to compare the yield components and quality factors of sweet corn grown under different irrigation scheduling strategies. The treatment with 426 mm of seasonal irrigation offered the largest commercial yields, with an appropriate quality production, good irrigation efficiency, the highest gross margin and the best break-even point irrigation strategy. Treatments with higher application produced lower irrigation efficiencies.
The Failure of Null Hypothesis Significance Testing When Studying Incremental Changes, and What to Do About It
Authors: Gelman Andrew
Published: September 2017

A standard mode of inference in social and behavioral science is to establish stylized facts using statistical significance in quantitative studies. However, in a world in which measurements are noisy and effects are small, this will not work: selection on statistical significance leads to effect sizes which are overestimated and often in the wrong direction. After a brief discussion of two examples, one in economics and one in social psychology, we consider the procedural solution of open postpublication review, the design solution of devoting more effort to accurate measurements and within-person comparisons, and the statistical analysis solution of multilevel modeling and reporting all results rather than selection on significance. We argue that the current replication crisis in science arises in part from the ill effects of null hypothesis significance testing being used to study small effects with noisy data. In such settings, apparent success comes easy but truly replicable results require a more serious connection between theory, measurement, and data.
Using Google Docs to Enhance the Teacher Work Sample
Authors: Gugino Jessica
Published: September 2017

The use of teaching portfolios in teacher education programs is a widely accepted practice. This article describes how a traditional teacher work sample was transformed using the online platform, Google Docs. The use of online digital portfolios may help to satisfy both the need to evaluate teacher candidates’ performance in special education settings and encourage deeper reflection through the use of interactive digital technologies. Equally important, when constructing the Google Doc work sample, teacher candidates learn important instructional technologies by implementing them in authentic settings. The author suggests the implementation of digital portfolios may reinforce best practices in special education.
Attitude toward the use of electronic medical record systems: Exploring moderating effects of self-image
Authors: Mijin Noh , Jang Hyeongyu , Choi Beomjin , Khongorzul Gantumur
Published: September 2017

The successful implementation of an electronic medical record (EMR) system depends on the acceptance of the system by the user who puts it into practice. Understanding medical professionals’ attitudes toward the use of EMRs is important for a successful implementation of the system. This study examines the attitude of medical professionals toward the use of EMRs by drawing from the theory of innovation diffusion and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). First, we identify the characteristics of EMRs and examine their impact on perceived usefulness, which together with perceived ease of use in turn influences attitude toward using EMR. Second, we examine the moderating effects of self-image between the key constructs of the TAM. To examine our research model, survey data from physicians and nurses from Korean hospitals were collected and analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling techniques. Results of the study showed that compatibility, security and accuracy have a positive effect on perceived usefulness, but reliability had no significant effect on perceived usefulness. Moreover, self-image acted as a moderating variable between the relationships between perceived ease of use and attitude and between perceived usefulness and attitude toward the use of EMR. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Targeting the central projection of the dural trigeminovascular system for migraine prophylaxis
Authors: Akerman Simon , Romero-Reyes Marcela
Published: September 2017

Migraine abortives likely target both peripheral-dural and central trigeminovascular mechanisms in mediating their therapeutic effects. However, in preclinical assays, many migraine preventives have little success at inhibiting similar trigeminovascular-mediated peripheral changes within the dural microenvironment. In addition, their effects on central trigeminovascular neuronal responses are largely unknown. Using a validated preclinical model of acute dural-intracranial (migraine-like) head pain, using Sprague Dawley rats, we tested whether migraine preventives suppress ongoing firing of central trigeminocervical neurons, and evoked responses to cranial neurovascular activation. Flunarizine, sodium valproate, propranolol, and amitriptyline, all dose-dependently inhibited ongoing spontaneous firing of dural trigeminovascular neurons, and differentially affected neuronal responses to intracranial-dural and extracranial-cutaneous somatosensory stimulation. Lamotrigine, only effective in the treatment of migraine aura, did not affect responses. These data provide a mechanistic rationale for the clinical effects of migraine preventives in the treatment of migraine, via the modulation of dural-responsive central trigeminovascular neurons. Also, given their limited effect on peripheral dural vasdilatory responses, these data also suggest that migraine preventives specifically target central, rather than peripheral, components of trigeminal neurovascular mechanisms involved in migraine pathophysiology, to mediate their preventive action. Finally, these data further validate this preclinical model of central trigeminovascular activation to screen migraine preventives.
Innate immunity may play a role in growth and relapse of chordoid meningioma
Authors: Presta Ivan , Guadagno Elia , Di Vito Anna , Malara Natalia , Mignogna Chiara , Maisano Domenico , Donato Annalidia , Cardillo Gabriella , Del Basso De Caro Maria Laura , Donato Giuseppe
Published: September 2017

Chordoid meningioma (CM) is a rare subtype of meningioma, which represents only 0.5% of all meningiomas. It is classified as Grade II according to the World Health Organization classification because of its tendency to relapse. Pathological and clinical characteristics have been studied in order to forecast the future evolution of the lesions. However, information about infiltration of macrophagic elements and mast cells is very scarce. The authors analyzed the immunohistochemical patterns of three cases and a relapse of CM, in order to verify whether infiltrating macrophages are in a polarized state and what would be the proportion between such elements and mastocytes. Results suggest that macrophages in CMs are mainly in a non-polarized or M2 state and their abundance might be associated with a major potential of relapse; additionally, there is an inverse correlation between the number of mast cells and macrophages. Further studies are requested in order to confirm these intriguing data.
Frequency of Adverse Event Monitoring in Ambulatory Patients on Amiodarone or Dofetilide
Authors: Rickard Joshua P. , Negrelli Jenna , Olson Jeffery L. , Dick Travis
Published: September 2017

Background:

Published studies state that adherence to regular laboratory assessments for anti-arrhythmic drugs is as low as 20%. Monitoring adherence is important as other studies have shown that up to 93% of patients on amiodarone experience an adverse drug event leading to a potentially lethal event.

Objective:

To determine whether patients prescribed amiodarone or dofetilide are being monitored according to package labeling and guideline recommendations for adverse events.

Methods:

Patients prescribed amiodarone or dofetilide from a 2-year period were eligible for inclusion. Patients with ventricular arrhythmias, prescribed more than 1 anti-arrhythmic agent, or received anti-arrhythmic monitoring outside the health-care system were excluded. Adherence to monitoring parameters was assessed according to labeled recommendations and published guidelines. The primary objective was to determine the frequency of baseline and follow-up monitoring recommendations for patients receiving amiodarone or dofetilide. The secondary objective was to determine rates of adverse drug events.

Results:

One hundred patients were evaluated (amiodarone n = 50, dofetilide n = 50). Average rates of baseline and follow-up amiodarone monitoring parameters were 55% and 57%, respectively. Average rates of baseline and follow-up dofetilide monitoring were 99.6% and 85%, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in abnormally elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone levels (8%-30%, P ≤ .005) after patients were prescribed amiodarone. Twelve percent of patients taking dofetilide had an increase in QTc interval by >15%.

Conclusions:

Amiodarone adverse event monitoring was lower than dofetilide in this cohort. Improving the monitoring of these agents may decrease morbidity risk in this population.
Non-cooperative maritime target position and velocity measuring method based on monocular trajectory intersection for video satellite
Authors: Chen Shengyi , Liu Haibo , Liu Xiaochun , Yu Qifeng
Published: September 2017

This paper presents a passive measuring method based on monocular trajectory intersection, aimed at realizing the position and velocity measurement of a non-cooperative maritime target for video satellite. Due to the fact that the target’s moving range is relatively small in comparison to that of the satellite during the observation time, a large measuring error results when directly using the monocular trajectory intersection method for 3D motion measurement. Therefore, the dynamic sea surface elevation model is employed to increase the maritime target movement constraints, which simplifies the 3D spatial motion of the target to 2D surface motion. By combining the surface constraint and monocular trajectory intersection method, measurement robustness for a non-cooperative maritime target can be greatly improved. Furthermore, a line-surface intersection method is proposed to obtain the initial solution for motion parameters, which increases the nonlinear optimization efficiency. Simulation experiments are conducted to analyze the effect of different error factors on position and velocity accuracy. The results indicate that the proposed method achieves high measurement accuracy and is feasible in practical applications for video satellite.
Experimental study on the vibration characteristic responses on the surface damage of wheel materials
Authors: Tian Ying , He Cheng-gang , Zhang Jie , Liu Qi-yue , Wang Wen-jian
Published: September 2017

The objective of the study was to explore the vibration signal responses on the surface damage of wheel materials using a JD-1 wheel–rail simulation facility. Vibration signals were extracted using the methods of local mean decomposition and Hilbert envelope spectrum. The surface damage of wheel rollers varies with different tangential forces. The results indicate that the surface damage of wheel materials has a corresponding characteristic frequency under different tangential forces conditions. When surface cracks appear on the surface of wheel rollers, the characteristic frequency of wheel roller is about 1830 Hz. However, the characteristic frequencies are about 800 Hz and 73 Hz for peeling and spalling damage on wheel roller. Multifractal dimensions of the vibration signals quantificationally identify and distinguish the surface damage types of wheel rollers, which can provide a meaningful guidance for the subsequent online detection of surface damage of wheel materials.
Waiting, power and time in ethnographic and community-based research
Authors: Palmer Jane , Pocock Celmara , Burton Lorelle
Published: September 2017

Waiting is one of the most common phenomena in ethnographic and other community-based research. Nevertheless, it remains under-explored in academic writing about the theoretical and methodological aspects of fieldwork. While waiting time often allows new data or information to emerge, we argue that such times have a significance independent of knowledge outcomes. We review various conceptions of waiting: as a time for self-awareness; the use of enforced waiting to exert power over the disadvantaged; and its obverse, the choice by the more powerful to ‘wait upon’ another’s needs and priorities. We use stories from our own fieldwork experience to suggest that in the particular context of ethnographic or community-based research, the choice to ‘wait upon’ others is a form of researcher reflexivity that can partially redress historical or current power imbalances.
How Spin and Salt Brought Down an Empire: A Study of Gandhi’s Legacy Using the Gorn Leadership Theoretic
Authors: Vengadasalam Puja
Published: September 2017

Gandhi is a much-misunderstood political leader. Due to the unique aspects of his leadership and his political philosophy of satyagraha, his contemporaries misunderstood him. The author undertakes an assessment of Gandhi’s leadership, using Gorn’s five dimensions of leadership. How Gandhi’s leadership style and philosophy impacted Mandela and the Dalai Lama, Aung San Sui Kyi and Martin Luther King among others is studied. By interposing Gorn’s leadership framework on the salt and spin movements that occurred during India’s struggle for freedom, the author finds that Gandhi’s leadership theoretic of satyagraha is tenable. As the article points out, what makes Gandhi and his satyagraha so significant is that it continues to influence current leadership and movements, and his substantial legacy overflows national, geographic and time boundaries.
Who is Overdosing? An Updated Picture of Overdose Deaths From 2008 to 2015
Authors: Eigner Gregory , Henriksen Brian , Huynh Philip , Murphy David , Brubaker Christopher , Sanders Jana , McMahan Deborah
Published: September 2017

Purpose:

To determine the role of opioids in drug overdose deaths in Allen County, Indiana between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2015.

Methods:

File review of 418 overdose deaths was performed using Indiana State Department of Health death certificates available through the Allen County Coroner’s Office. Data from autopsy and toxicology reports and coroner-requested prescribing data from Indiana’s Prescription Monitoring Program were reviewed. Cause of death and available data were analyzed to identify patterns and trends related to overdose deaths.

Results:

Four hundred eighteen drug overdose deaths were identified (336 accidental, 66 intentional, and 16 undetermined). Mean age was 42.5 years, 88.5% were Caucasian, and 68.7% were employed. The majority of deaths occurred at a place of residence (71.4%) and with other people present (57.5% of the time). Depression was the most common comorbidity identified. The most common drug classes identified by toxicology were opioids, followed by benzodiazepines. Significant increases in both heroin (35% of deaths in 2015 versus 8.2% in 2013) and fentanyl (30% of deaths in 2015 versus 2.2% in 2011) were observed.

Conclusions:

Drug overdose continues to be a significant cause of death in Allen County. The majority of deaths were accidental and in relatively young, employed individuals. Prevention and awareness strategies should be encouraged, given that the majority of overdose deaths occurred at a place of residence with other people frequently present. Additional concerns about patterns of drug use were confirmed with marked increases in both heroin and fentanyl contributing to overdose deaths in the latter part of the study.
Frontline Science: Proliferation of Ly6C+ monocytes during urinary tract infections is regulated by IL-6 trans-signaling
Authors: Dixit Akanksha , Bottek Jenny , Beerlage Anna-Lena , Schuettpelz Jana , Thiebes Stephanie , Brenzel Alexandra , Garbers Christoph , Rose-John Stefan , Mittrücker Hans-Willi , Squire Anthony , Engel Daniel R
Published: September 2017

Ly6C+ monocytes are important components of the innate immune defense against infections. These cells have been shown to proliferate in the bone marrow of mice with systemic infections. However, the proliferative capacity of Ly6C+ monocytes in infected peripheral tissues as well as the associated regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we analyzed the proliferative capacity of Ly6C+ monocytes in the urinary bladder after infection with uropathogenic E. coli, one of the most prevalent pathogen worldwide, and in LPS-induced peritonitis. We show that Ly6C+ monocytes proliferated in the bladder after infection with uropathogenic E. coli and in the peritoneum after intraperitoneal injection of LPS. We identified IL-6, a molecule that is highly expressed in infections, as a crucial regulator of Ly6C+ monocyte proliferation. Inhibition of IL-6 via administration of antibodies against IL-6 or gp130 impeded Ly6C+ monocyte proliferation. Furthermore, repression of IL-6 trans-signaling via administration of soluble gp130 markedly reduced the proliferation of Ly6C+ monocytes. Overall, this study describes the proliferation of Ly6C+ monocytes using models of urinary tract infection and LPS-induced peritonitis. IL-6 trans-signaling was identified as the regulator of Ly6C+ monocyte proliferation.