bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How French physicians manage with a future change in the primary vaccination of infants against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and poliomyelitis? A qualitative study with focus groups
Authors: Lungarde Karine , Blaizeau Fanette , Auger-Aubin Isabelle , Floret Daniel , Gilberg Serge , Jestin Christine , Hanslik Thomas , Le Goaster Corinne , Lévy-Bruhl Daniel , Blanchon Thierry , Rossignol Louise
Published: June 2013

Background

As in other European countries, the French vaccination schedule changes according to epidemiological and socio-economic situations. Further changes are planned for 2013, including the withdrawal of one dose for primary vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, pertussis and Haemophilus influenzae. A partnership between the French Technical Vaccination Committee and the French Institute for Health and Medical Research designed a study to assess primary care physicians’ agreement about this modification.

Methods

Qualitative study with focus groups and semi-structured interviews in France. Four focus groups were conducted with physicians, supplemented by four individual interviews.

Results

The physicians of the survey had accepted the suggested vaccination schedule well. A few concerns had been underlined: fear of less follow-up care for infants resulting from the removal of one visit driven by the primary vaccination; fear of loss of vaccine efficacy; suspicion of the existence of financial arguments at the origin of this change; and adjustment to current vaccination schedule. Several suggestions were made: providing strong support from health authorities; developing stable and simple recommendations; providing effective tools for monitoring patient’s vaccination status.

Conclusions

Physicians’ opinions suggested a good acceptance of a possible change about primary vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, pertussis and Haemophilus influenzae. Physicians’ suggestions resulted from this qualitative study on a new vaccination schedule. It showed how that their involvement was feasible for preparing the implementation of a new vaccination schedule.
Co-inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor and insulin-like growth factor receptor 1 enhances radiosensitivity in human breast cancer cells
Authors: Li Ping , Veldwijk Marlon R , Zhang Qing , Li Zhao-bin , Xu Wen-cai , Fu Shen
Published: June 2013

Background

Over-expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) have been shown to closely correlate with radioresistance of breast cancer cells. This study aimed to investigate the impact of co-inhibition of EGFR and IGF-1R on the radiosensitivity of two breast cancer cells with different profiles of EGFR and IGF-1R expression.

Methods

The MCF-7 (EGFR +/−, IGF-1R +++) and MDA-MB-468 (EGFR +++, IGF-1R +++) breast cancer cell lines were used. Radiosensitizing effects were determined by colony formation assay. Apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were measured by flow cytometry. Phospho-Akt and phospho-Erk1/2 were quantified by western blot. In vivo studies were conducted using MDA-MB-468 cells xenografted in nu/nu mice.

Results

In MDA-MB-468 cells, the inhibition of IGF-1R upregulated the p-EGFR expression. Either EGFR (AG1478) or IGF-1R inhibitor (AG1024) radiosensitized MDA-MB-468 cells. In MCF-7 cells, radiosensitivity was enhanced by AG1024, but not by AG1478. Synergistical radiosensitizing effect was observed by co-inhibition of EGFR and IGF-1R only in MDA-MB-468 cells with a DMF10%of 1.90. The co-inhibition plus irradiation significantly induced more apoptosis and arrested the cells at G0/G1 phase in MDA-MB-468 cells. Only co-inhibition of EGFR and IGF-1R synergistically diminished the expression of p-Akt and p-Erk1/2 in MDA-MB-468 cells. In vivo studies further verified the radiosensitizing effects by co-inhibition of both pathways in a MDA-MB-468 xenograft model.

Conclusion

Our data suggested that co-inhibition of EGFR and IGF-1R synergistically radiosensitized breast cancer cells with both EGFR and IGF-1R high expression. The approach may have an important therapeutic implication in the treatment of breast cancer patients with high expression of EGFR and IGF-1R.
Evaluating the use of citizens’ juries in food policy: a case study of food regulation
Authors: Henderson Julie , House Elizabeth , Coveney John , Meyer Samantha , Ankeny Rachel , Ward Paul , Calnan Michael
Published: June 2013

Background

Deliberative engagement techniques and citizens’ juries are touted as means of incorporating the public into policy decision-making, managing community expectations and increasing commitment to public health policy. This paper reports a study to examine the feasibility of citizens’ juries as a means of collecting data to inform public health policy related to food regulation through evaluation of the conduct of a citizens’ jury.

Methods

A citizens’ jury was conducted with a representative sample of 17 South Australians to explore their willingness to consider the proposition that food and drink advertising and/or sponsorship should be banned at children’s sporting events.

Results

The results showed that, in relation to the central proposition and evaluation data from the jury, opinion on the proposition remained comparatively stable. Most jurors indicated that they thought that food and drink sponsorship and/or advertising at children’s sporting events would have little or no effect on altering children’s diet and eating habits, with the proportion increasing during the jury process. Jurors were given evaluation sheets about the content of the jury and the process of the citizens’ jury to complete at the end of the session. The evaluation of the citizens’ jury process revealed positive perceptions. The majority of jurors agreed that their knowledge of the issues of food and drink sponsorship in children’s sport had increased as a result of participation in the citizens’ jury. The majority also viewed the decision-making process as fair and felt that their views were listened to. One important response in the evaluation was that all jurors indicated that, if given the opportunity, they would participate in another citizens’ jury.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the citizens’ jury increased participant knowledge of the issue and facilitated reflective discussion of the proposition. Citizens’ juries are an effective means of gaining insight into public views of policy and the circumstances under which the public will consider food regulation; however a number of issues need to be considered to ensure the successful conduct of a citizens’ jury.
Tools for mass screening of G6PD deficiency: validation of the WST8/1-methoxy-PMS enzymatic assay in Uganda
Authors: De Niz Mariana , Eziefula Alice C , Othieno Lucas , Mbabazi Edith , Nabukeera Damalie , Ssemmondo Emmanuel , Gonahasa Samuel , Tumwebaze Patrick , DiLiberto Deborah , Maiteki-Sebuguzi Catherine , Staedke Sarah G , Drakeley Chris
Published: June 2013

Background

The distribution of the enzymopathy glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is linked to areas of high malaria endemicity due to its association with protection from disease. G6PD deficiency is also identified as the cause of severe haemolysis following administration of the anti-malarial drug primaquine and further use of this drug will likely require identification of G6PD deficiency on a population level. Current conventional methods for G6PD screening have various disadvantages for field use.

Methods

The WST8/1-methoxy PMS method, recently adapted for field use, was validated using a gold standard enzymatic assay (R&D Diagnostics Ltd ®) in a study involving 235 children under five years of age, who were recruited by random selection from a cohort study in Tororo, Uganda. Blood spots were collected by finger-prick onto filter paper at routine visits, and G6PD activity was determined by both tests. Performance of the WST8/1-methoxy PMS test under various temperature, light, and storage conditions was evaluated.

Results

The WST8/1-methoxy PMS assay was found to have 72% sensitivity and 98% specificity when compared to the commercial enzymatic assay and the AUC was 0.904, suggesting good agreement. Misclassifications were at borderline values of G6PD activity between mild and normal levels, or related to outlier haemoglobin values (<8.0 gHb/dl or >14 gHb/dl) associated with ongoing anaemia or recent haemolytic crises. Although severe G6PD deficiency was not found in the area, the test enabled identification of low G6PD activity. The assay was found to be highly robust for field use; showing less light sensitivity, good performance over a wide temperature range, and good capacity for medium-to-long term storage.

Conclusions

The WST8/1-methoxy PMS assay was comparable to the currently used standard enzymatic test, and offers advantages in terms of cost, storage, portability and use in resource-limited settings. Such features make this test a potential key tool for deployment in the field for point of care assessment prior to primaquine administration in malaria-endemic areas. As with other G6PD tests, outlier haemoglobin levels may confound G6PD level estimation.
Incidence and risk factors for postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome after laparoscopic and open radical gastrectomy
Authors: Meng Hongbo , Zhou Donglei , Jiang Xun , Ding Weixing , Lu Liesheng
Published: June 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences and influencing factors for postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome incidence after laparoscopic and open radical gastrectomy.

Methods

Clinical data were collected for 563 patients who underwent open radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer and 72 cases receiving laparoscopic radical gastrectomy. We retrospectively analyzed the incidence of postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome, clinical features, course of disease, and risk factors of these two groups.

Results

There was no statistical difference for the incident rate of postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome between laparoscopic and open radical gastrectomy (6.9% vs. 3.7%, P > 0.05). Preoperative outflow tract obstruction and Billroth II anastomosis were the two risk factors for postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome in the open radical gastrectomy group and the laparoscopic surgery for gastric cancer group. The same results were obtained from logistic regression statistical analysis. Age greater than 70 years was also one of the risk factors for postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome in the open radical gastrectomy group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer does not increase the incident rate of postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome.
Single-crystalline δ-Ni2Si nanowires with excellent physical properties
Authors: Chiu Wen-Li , Chiu Chung-Hua , Chen Jui-Yuan , Huang Chun-Wei , Huang Yu-Ting , Lu Kuo-Chang , Hsin Cheng-Lun , Yeh Ping-Hung , Wu Wen-Wei
Published: June 2013

In this article, we report the synthesis of single-crystalline nickel silicide nanowires (NWs) via chemical vapor deposition method using NiCl2·6H2O as a single-source precursor. Various morphologies of δ-Ni2Si NWs were successfully acquired by controlling the growth conditions. The growth mechanism of the δ-Ni2Si NWs was thoroughly discussed and identified with microscopy studies. Field emission measurements show a low turn-on field (4.12 V/μm), and magnetic property measurements show a classic ferromagnetic characteristic, which demonstrates promising potential applications for field emitters, magnetic storage, and biological cell separation.
Cellular re- and de-programming by microenvironmental memory: why short TGF-β1 pulses can have long effects
Authors: Tan Ariel Bing-Shi , Kress Sebastian , Castro Leticia , Sheppard Allan , Raghunath Michael
Published: June 2013

Background

Fibrosis poses a substantial setback in regenerative medicine. Histopathologically, fibrosis is an excessive accumulation of collagen affected by myofibroblasts and this can occur in any tissue that is exposed to chronic injury or insult. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, a crucial mediator of fibrosis, drives differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. These cells exhibit α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and synthesize high amounts of collagen I, the major extracellular matrix (ECM) component of fibrosis. While hormones stimulate cells in a pulsatile manner, little is known about cellular response kinetics upon growth factor impact. We therefore studied the effects of short TGF-β1 pulses in terms of the induction and maintenance of the myofibroblast phenotype.

Results

Twenty-four hours after a single 30 min TGF-β1 pulse, transcription of fibrogenic genes was upregulated, but subsided 7 days later. In parallel, collagen I secretion rate and α-SMA presence were elevated for 7 days. A second pulse 24 h later extended the duration of effects to 14 days. We could not establish epigenetic changes on fibrogenic target genes to explain the long-lasting effects. However, ECM deposited under singly pulsed TGF-β1 was able to induce myofibroblast features in previously untreated fibroblasts. Dependent on the age of the ECM (1 day versus 7 days’ formation time), this property was diminished. Vice versa, myofibroblasts were cultured on fibroblast ECM and cells observed to express reduced (in comparison with myofibroblasts) levels of collagen I.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that short TGF-β1 pulses can exert long-lasting effects on fibroblasts by changing their microenvironment, thus leaving an imprint and creating a reciprocal feed-back loop. Therefore, the ECM might act as mid-term memory for pathobiochemical events. We would expect this microenvironmental memory to be dependent on matrix turnover and, as such, to be erasable. Our findings contribute to the current understanding of fibroblast induction and maintenance, and have bearing on the development of antifibrotic drugs.
Sequencing and validation of housekeeping genes for quantitative real-time PCR during the gonadotrophic cycle of Diploptera punctata
Authors: Marchal Elisabeth , Hult Ekaterina F , Huang Juan , Tobe Stephen S
Published: June 2013

Background

Quantitative RT-PCR (q-RT-PCR) is a powerful tool that allows for the large scale analysis of small changes in gene expression. Accurate and reliable results depend on the use of stable reference genes for normalization. However, the expression of some widely used housekeeping genes can vary under different experimental setups. To our knowledge, no validation studies have been reported for reference genes in cockroaches. The aim of the current study is the identification and validation of a set of eight housekeeping genes during the first gonadotrophic cycle of the cockroach, Diploptera punctata. This study made use of two different algorithms (geNorm and Normfinder) to evaluate the stability of gene expression.

Results

Candidate housekeeping genes were sequenced: β-actin (Actin), elongation factor 1 alpha (EF1a), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), armadillo (Arm), ribosomal protein L32 (RpL32), succinate dehydrogenase (SDHa), annexin IX (AnnIX) and α-tubulin (Tub). The expression of these eight genes was analyzed in corpora allata (CA) and ovaries of adult female D. punctata. Both geNorm, as well as Normfinder characterized SDHa, EF1a and Arm as being the most stably expressed in the corpora allata. In the ovary, the geNorm calculation showed Tub, EF1a and RpL32 to be most stable, whereas Normfinder identified Tub, EF1a and Arm as the best. In ovary, the least stable gene was Actin, challenging its usefulness in normalization. As a proof of principle, the expression of follicle cell protein 3c and CYP15A1 was monitored during the first gonadotrophic cycle.

Conclusion

Arm and EF1a form the most stably expressed combination of two reference genes out of the eight candidates that were tested in the corpora allata. Our results show that the combined use of Tub, EF1a and RpL32 ensures an accurate normalization of gene expression levels in ovary of D. punctata. Our study has indicated that neither Actin nor AnnIX should be used for normalization of transcript levels when studying the first gonadotrophic cycle in CA or ovary of D. punctata. The results stress the necessity for validation of reference genes in q-RT-PCR studies in cockroaches.
Unusual cerebral vascular prion protein amyloid distribution in scrapie-infected transgenic mice expressing anchorless prion protein
Authors: Rangel Alejandra , Race Brent , Klingeborn Mikael , Striebel James , Chesebro Bruce
Published: June 2013

Background

In some prion diseases, misfolded aggregated protease-resistant prion protein (PrPres) is found in brain as amyloid, which can cause cerebral amyloid angiopathy. Small diffusible precursors of PrPres amyloid might flow with brain interstitial fluid (ISF), possibly accounting for the perivascular and intravascular distribution of PrPres amyloid. We previously reported that PrPres amyloid in scrapie-infected transgenic mice appeared to delay clearance of microinjected brain ISF tracer molecules.

Results

Here we studied distribution of PrPres amyloid on capillaries, arteries and veins to test whether vascular specificity of PrPres corresponded to distribution of ISF tracer molecules. To distinguish PrPres-positive arteries from veins and capillaries, scrapie-infected mouse brains were studied by immunodetection of alpha smooth muscle actin. ISF was studied using fluorescein-labeled ovalbumin microinjected into brain as a tracer. In infected preclinical or clinical mice, PrPres was found mostly on capillaries (73-78%). Lower levels were found on arteries (11-14%) and veins (11-13%). Compared to PrPres, ISF tracer was found at higher levels on capillaries (96-97%), and the remaining tracer was found at a skewed ratio of 4 to 1 on arteries and veins respectively.

Conclusions

PrPres association with blood vessels suggested that ISF flow might transport diffusible PrPres precursor molecules to perivascular sites. However, the different vascular specificity of PrPres and ISF tracer indicated that ISF flow did not alone control PrPres dissemination. Possibly blood vessel basement membrane (BM) components, such as glucosaminoglycans, might concentrate small PrPres aggregates and serve as scaffolds for PrP conversion on multiple vessel types.
Development, inheritance and breeding potential of a recessive genic male sterile line D248A in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Liu Hongyan , Yang Minmin , Wu Kun , Zhou Xinan , Zhao Yingzhong
Published: June 2013

Genic male sterility (GMS) has great potential for heterosis exploitation in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Two spontaneous male-sterile plants were discovered in a Chinese sesame cultivar (Zhuzhi 4) in 2006. By consecutive sib mating with fertile plants from Zhuzhi 4, a new sterile line, D248A, was developed. Anatomy studies showed that D248A has thin, small and greenish anthers on which there are no or little pollen grains. The pollens are irregularly shaped and completely aborted, resulting in no germination and no formation of pollen tubes as revealed by acetocarmine stain or semi-solid suspension culture. Furthermore, D248A has a better performance in growth vigor, bloom duration and yield per plant than the other GMS lines (i.e. 95 ms-2A and 95 ms-5A). To investigate the inheritance mode of fertility, D248A was crossed and backcrossed with six varieties, and a segregating ratio of 3:1 and 1:1 for fertile and sterile plants was observed in F2 and BC1 populations, respectively. These results suggested that D248A is controlled by a recessive GMS gene. The average yield of four D248A-derived F1 hybrids is as high as 1695 kg·ha-1, which is almost twice of that of 95 ms-5A-derived F1 hybrids. These results indicated that this newly developed recessive GMS line has great potential in sesame hybrid breeding.
Myosin VI and its cargo adaptors – linking endocytosis and autophagy
Authors: Tumbarello David A. , Kendrick-Jones John , Buss Folma
Published: June 2013

The coordinated trafficking and tethering of membrane cargo within cells relies on the function of distinct cytoskeletal motors that are targeted to specific subcellular compartments through interactions with protein adaptors and phospholipids. The unique actin motor myosin VI functions at distinct steps during clathrin-mediated endocytosis and the early endocytic pathway – both of which are involved in cargo trafficking and sorting – through interactions with Dab2, GIPC, Tom1 and LMTK2. This multifunctional ability of myosin VI can be attributed to its cargo-binding tail region that contains two protein–protein interaction interfaces, a ubiquitin-binding motif and a phospholipid binding domain. In addition, myosin VI has been shown to be a regulator of the autophagy pathway, because of its ability to link the endocytic and autophagic pathways through interactions with the ESCRT-0 protein Tom1 and the autophagy adaptor proteins T6BP, NDP52 and optineurin. This function has been attributed to facilitating autophagosome maturation and subsequent fusion with the lysosome. Therefore, in this Commentary, we discuss the relationship between myosin VI and the different myosin VI adaptor proteins, particularly with regards to the spatial and temporal regulation that is required for the sorting of cargo at the early endosome, and their impact on autophagy.
The lysosomal signaling anchor p18/LAMTOR1 controls epidermal development by regulating lysosome-mediated catabolic processes
Authors: Soma-Nagae Taeko , Nada Shigeyuki , Kitagawa Mari , Takahashi Yusuke , Mori Shunsuke , Oneyama Chitose , Okada Masato
Published: June 2013

The lysosomal adaptor protein p18 is an essential anchor of a scaffolding complex for the mTORC1 and MAPK pathways, which play crucial roles in controlling cell growth and energy homeostasis. To elucidate the in vivo function of the p18-mediated pathway, we conditionally ablated p18 in the mouse epidermis. Mutant mice were born with severe defects in formation of the stratum corneum and died within 12 h after birth due to dehydration caused by loss of skin barrier function. Mutant epidermal cells can grow and differentiate into granular cells, but exhibit functional defects in corneocyte maturation. Electron microscopy identified abnormal immature cells, overlying the mutant granular cells, which accumulated autophagosomes, glycogen granules and dead nuclei. Cell culture analysis showed that loss of p18 attenuated lysosome function, resulting in accumulation of immature lysosomes and autophagosomes. Analyses of lysosome behavior revealed that p18 is required for functional interaction between lysosomes and target organelles including autophagosomes. These findings suggest that p18-mediated pathways control lysosome-mediated catabolic processes crucial role for development of mouse epidermis.
Phosphoinositide-bis-phosphate is required for Saccharomyces cerevisiae invasive growth
Authors: Guillas Isabelle , Vernay Aurélia , Vitagliano Jean-Jacques , Arkowitz Robert A.
Published: June 2013

Phosphoinositide phosphates are important regulators of processes such as the cytoskeleton organization, membrane traffic and gene transcription, which are all critical for polarized cell growth. In particular PI(4,5)P2 plays essential roles in polarized growth as well as in cellular responses to stress. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae a sole PI(4)P-5-kinase, Mss4p is essential for generating plasma membrane PI(4,5)P2. Here we show that Mss4p is required for yeast invasive growth in low nutrient conditions. Specific mss4 mutants were isolated which are defective in cell elongation, induction of the Flo11p flocculin, adhesion and cell wall integrity. We show that mss4-f12 cells have reduced plasma membrane PI(4,5)P2 levels as well as a defect in the polarized distribution of this phospholipid, yet Mss4-f12p is catalytically active in vitro. In addition, the Mss4-f12 protein was defective in localizing to the plasma membrane. Furthermore, addition of cAMP, but not an activated MAPKKK allele, partially restored the invasive growth defect of mss4-f12 cells. Together our results indicate that plasma membrane PI(4,5)P2 is critical for yeast invasive growth and suggest that this phospholipid functions upstream of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase A signaling pathway.
Endothelial adherens junctions at a glance
Authors: Dejana Elisabetta , Orsenigo Fabrizio
Published: June 2013

Adherens junctions have an important role in the control of vascular permeability. These structures are located at cell-to-cell contacts, mediate cell adhesion and transfer intracellular signals. Adhesion is mediated by cadherins, which interact homophilically in trans and form lateral interactions in cis. VE-cadherin (also known as CDH5 and CD144) is the major component of endothelial adherens junctions and is specific to endothelial cells. Endothelial cells from different types of vessels, such as lymphatic vessels, arteries and veins, show differences in junction composition and organization. Vascular permeability is increased by modifications in the expression and function of adherens junction components. In some cases these defects might be cause of pathology. In this Cell Science at a Glance article, we present the example of the so-called cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM), where adherens junctions are dismantled in the vessels contributing to brain microcirculation. This causes the loss of endothelial cell apical–basal polarity and the formation of cavernomas, which are fragile and hemorrhagic. Other diseases are accompanied by persistent alterations of vascular morphology and permeability, such as seen in tumors. It will be important to achieve a better understanding of the relationship between vascular fragility, malformations and junctional integrity in order to develop more effective therapies.
ERP57 secretion is important for extracellular matrix accumulation and renal fibrosis progression and is an earlier sign of disease onset
Authors: Dihazi Hassan , Dihazi Gry Helene , Bibi Asima , Eltoweissy Marwa , Mueller Claudia A. , Asif Abdul R. , Rubel Diana , Vasko Radovan , Mueller Gerhard A.
Published: June 2013

Renal fibrosis is characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), which compromises organ function by replacing normal organ tissue. The molecular mechanisms leading to renal fibrosis are not fully understood. Here we demonstrated that TGFß1, AgII or PDGF stimulation of renal cells resulted in ER-stress followed by activation of the protective unfolded protein response pathway and high secretory level of protein disulfide isomerase ERP57. The TGFß1 impairment of ER-function could be reversed by BMP7 treatment suggesting a specific involvement in renal fibrosis. Clear correlation between the degree of fibrosis, ER-stress and ERP57 level could be evidenced in fibrosis animal models and in biopsies of renal fibrosis patient's. Protein interaction studies revealed that secreted ERP57 exhibit a strong interaction with ECM proteins. Knockdown of ERP57 or antibody targeted inhibition of the secreted form impaired significantly the secretion and accumulation of ECM. Moreover ERP57 was excreted in earlier stage of chronic kidney diseases and its level in urine correlated with the degree of renal fibrosis suggesting that the ERP57 secretion may represent one of the first signs of renal fibrosis onset and progression.
The mechanisms of the widespread production of phosphorylated HSP25 after fatiguing muscle stimulation
Authors: Jammes Yves , Steinberg Jean G. , Olivier Marine , Brerro-Saby Christelle , Condo Jocelyne , Ravailhe Sylvie , Guieu Regis , Delliaux Stephane
Published: June 2013

We already showed a widespread heat shock protein (HSP) response to fatigue of a single hindlimb muscle, responsible for a global adaptive response to an acute localized stress. We also demonstrated that the HSP response resulted from the activation of nerve afferents from the stimulated muscle. However, we did not examine the role played by the different muscle afferents as well as the efferent arm of HSP response. We here measured the changes in phosphorylated HSP25 (pHSP25) levels in resting hindlimb muscles, the diaphragm, kidney, and brain in response to a fatiguing stimulation of one tibialis anterior (TA) muscle which was repeated in five series of experiments: 1) intact muscle innervation, 2) during the selective procaine block of conduction in group IV muscle afferents, 3) after muscle nerve transection to suppress all the sensory messages, under pharmacological blockade of the 4) alpha adrenergic or 5) glutamatergic neurotransmission. The data showed that: 1) the pHSP25 response in hindlimb muscles resulted from the stimulation of both the groups III and IV muscle afferents while the pHSP25 response in the diaphragm, kidney, and brain resulted from the sole activation of the group IV fibres, 2) the blockade of alpha adrenergic, but not that of glutamatergic neurotransmission, suppressed the pHSP25 response in all the explored tissues except the brain. The present study highlights the role played by the groups III and IV muscle afferents in the fatigue-induced pHSP25 response and shows that the sympathetic nerve supply to the muscles and kidney represents the efferent arm of the pHSP25 activation. However, the pHSP25 changes in the brain cannot be explained by the pathways investigated here.
Experimental Study of Innovative Steel-Concrete Composite Beams under Hogging Moment
Authors: Jiang Aoyu , Chen Ju , Jin Weiliang
Published: June 2013

This paper presents an innovative solution for steel-concrete composite beams under hogging moment. Compared to normal composite beams, additional concrete was cast inside the steel box girder of these innovative composite beams, aimed to increase the resistance to hogging moment. Bending tests were performed on three series of beams including four innovative composite beams and five normal composite beams. The load-displacement curves, load-crack width curves and ultimate strengths of test specimens were recorded. It was shown that concrete inside the steel box girder effectively enhanced the stiffness and ultimate strength of composite beams under hogging moment. The crack widths of concrete slab were reduced. In addition, the resistance to local buckling of the steel box girder was also remarkably enhanced due to the concrete inside. Design equations for determining the ultimate bending strength of the proposed solution were proposed, with particular emphasis for transverse sections under hogging moments. The results of those equations in terms of ultimate bending capacity complied well with the observed experimental results.
Incorporating Expected Life-Time into Live Load Factor for RC Structures Using Reliability Analysis
Authors: Zadeh Hany Jawaheri , Nanni Antonio
Published: June 2013

A method of reliability analysis is utilized to calibrate the live load factor based on the expected life-time of a cast-in-place reinforced concrete (RC) structure. The probabilistic parameters of live load are computed for different life-times and live load factors are then suggested so that the same level of safety is maintained for any given life-span. An example is presented that demonstrates how modified live load factors can be conducive to making decision on the necessity and the level of the required strengthening in a concrete structure in need of repair.
Sensor Placement for Structural Damage Detection considering Measurement Uncertainties
Authors: Zhou Xiao-Qing , Xia Yong , Hao Hong
Published: June 2013

Structural damage detection methods using vibration measurements have been developed for decades. Measurement selections may affect damage detection results, because inevitable uncertainties are involved in vibration testing. A new sensor placement index is defined as the ratio of two parameters, namely, the contribution of measurement points to a Fisher information matrix, and the damage sensitivity to the measurement noise. A large value of the contribution vector represents that the corresponding measurement points are sensitive to the damage and measurements at these points are more prominent for structural damage identification, whereas a small noise sensitivity value indicates measurement points that are less influenced by noises. Consequently, the points with large index values are chosen as the measurement subset. The effectiveness of the proposed technique is verified using a laboratory-tested steel frame. The damage detection using different measurement selection schemes shows that the present technique can identify multiple damages of the structure more accurately. The effect of the measurement number is also investigated.
Towards Narrowing Unexpected Issues in Future Earthquakes: A Review
Authors: Takewaki Izuru
Published: June 2013

When we encounter a devastating earthquake disaster, we have upgraded the earthquake resistant design codes in the long history of earthquake structural engineering. However the repetition of this action does never resolve the essential problem. This is because building structures and input ground motions have various complex uncertainties and unexpected phenomena often occur. The 2011 off the Pacific coast of Tohoku earthquake also provided some unexpected phenomena. This review paper discusses how to narrow unexpected issues in future earthquakes by referring to several concepts. Critical excitation methods, info-gap theories for uncertainty representation and interval analysis methods are the principal concepts.
Coach Leadership Effect on Elite Handball Players' Psychological Empowerment and Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Lee Younghan , Kim So-Hee , Joon-Ho Kang
Published: June 2013

This article examines the significance of the correlation between coach leadership behavior and players' organizational citizenship behavior, and the mediating role of psychological empowerment in the process. A total of 73 professional handball players from five different teams assessed leadership style, psychological empowerment, and organizational citizenship behavior based on the scale adapted from Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire form 5X. Regression analysis and bootstrap methods were utilized to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings indicated that both transactional and transformational leadership styles significantly predicted players' organizational citizenship behavior. In particular, psychological empowerment played a mediating role in the association between coach leadership and organizational citizenship behavior.
Statistical Analysis of Athlete Variability Applied to Biomechanical Analysis of Ski Jumping
Authors: Montelpare William , McPherson Moira , Puumala Rodney
Published: June 2013

Traditionally data processing in applied biomechanics has relied on descriptive approaches. Although these are effective exploratory techniques, they may not provide an understanding of the interaction between the variables that describe the event across repeated sampling. Factor analysis is a statistical process that allows the researcher to extend prediction beyond a univariate model to a structural equation in which dependent variables are processed against latent factors. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the application of factor analysis in the reduction of input variables to minimize inter-subject variance in structural equation modelling in biomechanics and specifically competitive ski jumping. Applying a systematic method of data processing, variables that lacked robustness were omitted; while variables that maintained homogeneity of variance across the mid-flight phase of the jump were selected. Based on this analytical approach, the final model is less influenced by confounding from the implicit variance that arises when using sequences of random variables (heteroscedasticity) within a set of predictor variables. Therefore, the final model is expected to maintain the characteristics of homoscedasticity and minimize stochastic effects.
Trends in Comprehensive Modeling of Spray Formation
Authors: Tharakan T. John , Mukhopadhyay Achintya , Datta Amitava , Jog Milind A.
Published: June 2013

Comprehensive modeling of spray formation in liquid fuel injectors involves modeling of (i) internal hydrodynamics of fuel injector (ii) break up of liquid sheet leading to primary and secondary atomization and (iii) prediction of size and velocity distributions of droplets in the spray. Comprehensive models addressing all the three aspects are rare though some work has been reported that incorporate two of the three aspects. However, significant volume of literature exists on the individual modules. In the present work, progress and current trends in the individual modules have been extensively reviewed and their implications on development of comprehensive models have been discussed. The unresolved issues and future research directions are also indicated.
Pulmonary Carbon Dioxide Elimination for Cardiac Output Monitoring in Peri‐operative and Critical Care Patients: History and Current Status
Authors: Peyton Philip J.
Published: June 2013

Minimally invasive measurement of cardiac output as a central component of advanced haemodynamic monitoring has been increasingly recognised as a potential means of improving perioperative outcomes in patients undergoing major surgery. Methods based upon pulmonary carbon dioxide elimination are among the oldest techniques in this field, with comparable accuracy and precision to other techniques. Modern adaptations of these techniques suitable for use in the perioperative and critical are environment are based on the differential Fick approach, and include the partial carbon dioxide rebreathing method. The accuracy and precision of this approach to cardiac output measurement has been shown to be similar to other minimally invasive techniques. This paper reviews the underlying principles and evolution of the method, and future directions including recent adaptations designed to deliver continuous breath‐by‐breath monitoring of cardiac output.
Numerical Simulations of Stiffened Multi-Arch Double-Layered Panels Subjected to Blast Loading
Authors: Chen Wensu , Hao Hong
Published: June 2013

Blast-resistant structures are traditionally designed and fabricated with solid materials of heavy weight to resist blast loadings. This not only increases the material and construction costs, but also undermines the operational performance of protective structures. To overcome these problems, new designs with either new structural forms or new materials are demanded against blast loads. A multi-arch double-layered panel has been proposed as a new structural form in a previous study [1]. Its performance has been numerically demonstrated better than other forms of double-layered panels in resisting blast loads. In this study, to further improve the effectiveness of the multi-arch double-layered panel in resisting blast loads, responses of a five-arch double-layered panel with rectangular stiffeners to detonations are investigated by using finite element code Ls-Dyna. The numerical results show that the stiffened panel outperforms the unstiffened panel of the same weight in terms of the blast-resistant capacity and energy absorption capacity. Parametric studies are conducted to investigate the effects of various stiffener configurations, boundary conditions, stiffener dimension, strain rate sensitivity and blast intensity on the dynamic response to blast loadings. The central point displacements, internal energy absorptions, boundary reaction forces and plastic strains are compared and the optimal configurations of blast-resistant panel are determined. It demonstrates that the strategic arrangement of stiffeners with appropriate boundary conditions can maximize the reduction of dynamic response of the panels to blast loadings. The stiffened multi-arch dotuble-layered panels have great application potentials in the blast-resistant panel design.
Gabapentin Versus Chlordiazepoxide for Outpatient Alcohol Detoxification Treatment
Authors: Stock Christopher J , Carpenter Lindsay , Ying Jian , Greene Tom
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

Benzodiazepines are used to treat alcohol withdrawal (AW) but cause cognitive impairment, sedation, and ataxia, and interact with alcohol. Nonbenzodiazepine anticonvulsants are promising and possibly safer alternatives for the treatment of AW.

OBJECTIVE

To compare follow-up measures of Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Penn Alcohol Craving Scale (PACS), ataxia rating, and Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol revised (CIWA-Ar) symptoms between alcohol-dependent individuals randomized to treatment with gabapentin or chlordiazepoxide.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind study was conducted in US veterans with alcohol withdrawal (DSM-IV criteria). Subjects requiring hospitalization or taking benzodiazepines or nonbenzodiazepine anticonvulsants were excluded. Twenty-six participants were randomized: 17 received gabapentin and 9 received chlordiazepoxide. Gabapentin doses were 1200 mg orally for 3 days, followed by 900 mg, 600 mg, and 300 mg for 1 day each. Chlordiazepoxide doses were 100 mg orally for 3 days, followed by 75 mg, 50 mg, and 25 mg for 1 day each. CIWA-Ar, ESS, PACS scales and evaluation for ataxia were administered daily.

RESULTS

Follow-up mean ESS and PACS scores did not differ significantly between treatment groups in the early treatment period (days 1–4) but were lower (mean difference −3.70; 95% CI −7.21 to −0.19; p = 0.04) and (mean difference −6.05; 95% CI −12.82 to 0.72; p = 0.08), respectively, at the end of the treatment period (days 5–7) in gabapentin-treated subjects. CIWA-Ar scores were reduced similarly in both groups. Ataxia was not observed. No significant adverse events were noted. Limitations include our small sample size and 35% loss to follow-up at the end of the treatment period.

CONCLUSIONS

In ambulatory veterans with symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, gabapentin treatment resulted in significantly greater reduction in sedation (ESS) and a trend to reduced alcohol craving (PACS) by the end of treatment compared to chlordiazepoxide treatment. Although limited by the small sample size, the suggestion of reduction in sleepiness and less craving warrants replication of the study with a larger sample.
Changes in Cholesterol-Lowering Medications Use Over a Decade in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Lo-Ciganic Wei-Hsuan , Boudreau Robert M , Gray Shelly L , Zgibor Janice C , Donohue Julie M , Perera Subashan , Newman Anne B , Simonsick Eleanor M , Bauer Douglas C , Satterfield Suzanne , Hanlon Joseph T
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

The impact of evidence-based guidelines and controlled trial data on use of cholesterol-lowering medications in older adults is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether utilization patterns of cholesterol-lowering medications in community-dwelling older adults changed following the release of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines and results from the Prospective Study of Pravastatin in the Elderly at Risk in 2002.

METHODS

Community-dwelling elderly individuals who were enrolled in the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study in 1997–1998 were followed for up to 11 years. An interrupted time series analysis with multivariable generalized estimating equations (GEEs) was used to examine changes in level and trend in cholesterol-lowering medication use before and after 2002, adjusting for sociodemographics, health-related behaviors, and health status.

RESULTS

Cholesterol-lowering medication use increased nearly 3-fold from 14.9% in 1997–1998 to 42.6% in 2007–2008, with statins representing the most common class used (87–94%). Multivariable GEE results revealed no significant difference in the level of cholesterol-lowering medication use after 2002 (adjusted OR 0.95; 95% CI 0.89–1.02). Multivariable GEE results revealed that trend changes in the rate of increase in cholesterol-lowering medication declined after 2002 (adjusted ratio of ORs 0.92; 95% CI 0.89–0.95).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of cholesterol-lowering medication increased substantially over a decade in community-dwelling elderly individuals but was not related to a change in level or trend following the release of the guidelines and evidence-based data.
Solipsism, self-indulgence and circular arguments: Why autoethnography promises much more than it delivers
Authors: Freeman John
Published: June 2013

The dominance of autoethnography has obscured a measured evaluation of the compatibility of autoethnographic research with its subject matter, and also of the research value of predominantly personal narratives – those stories by researchers who locate and regard themselves as the research subject and who then write evocative stories of their experiences. These are often the most difficult forms for autoethnography to accommodate, relying as they do on experience reading as its own analysis and diary-like description of the researcher/writer’s life standing for a retelling that provides an adequate informing of our understanding of a particular cultural context. It can be hard to distinguish these stories from autobiography. In these cases, autoethnography often appears to be used as little more than a relatively research-friendly term, as something that sounds more academically legitimate than autobiography but which has more in common with drawing the reader into the researcher’s own life than using one’s culturally located experiences as something that opens a door onto wider understanding.
A rare cause of neonatal hydrocephalus
Authors: Davidson Sarah Louise , Theodoulou Angela , Kempley Stephen Terence , Pasi John
Published: June 2013

A term male infant was delivered by normal vaginal delivery following an uneventful pregnancy. He presented at 3 days of age with jaundice, weight loss, and poor feeding. He rapidly deteriorated with hypotonia, seizures, a tense fontanelle, and depressed conscious level. A cranial ultrasound scan showed moderate lateral and third ventricular dilatation, with no visible fourth ventricle. Doppler measurements showed absent diastolic flow, confirming markedly raised intracranial pressure. Cerebrospinal fluid pressure was markedly elevated and coagulation profile showed a specific prolongation of the activated partial thromboplastin time. Factor VIII assay confirmed haemophilia and a computed tomography scan showed a posterior fossa haemorrhage that was effacing the fourth ventricle and causing an acute hydrocephalus. He was managed with cerebrospinal fluid drainage and recombinant factor VIII concentrate. Posterior fossa haemorrhage is an unusual cause of acute high pressure hydrocephalus in the term neonate. Haemophilia should be considered as a cause of unusual intracranial haemorrhage in term neonates.
Regulation of apoptosis in adipocytes and breast cancer cells by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3: a link between obesity and breast cancer
Authors: Sergeev Igor N.
Published: June 2013

Modulation of apoptosis is emerging as a promising strategy for prevention and treatment of breast cancer and obesity because removal of mammary cancer cells and mature adipocytes through this process will result in decreasing tumor size and produce long-term reduction in adipose tissue mass. The hormone 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) triggers apoptosis in breast cancer cells and adipocytes via the induction of the apoptotic Ca2+ signal – a sustained increase in concentration of intracellular Ca2+. This signal acts as an apoptotic initiator that directly recruits Ca2+-dependent apoptotic effectors, calpain and caspase 12, in breast cancer cells and adipocytes. Normal mammary epithelial cells are resistant to 1,25(OH)2D3-induced, Ca2+-mediated apoptosis because the mechanisms regulating Ca2+ in these cells do not sustain Ca2+ increase at the apoptosis-inducing level. Induction of apoptosis with 1,25(OH)2D3 in adipose tissue, particularly in the tumor-surrounding adipose tissue involved in tumor progression, can contribute to the anticancer effects of the hormone. The 1,25(OH)2D3-Ca2+ link between obesity and breast cancer supports the rationale to include Ca2+-dependent apoptotic proteases as molecular targets for the discovery of new therapeutic and preventive agents for breast cancer and obesity; it also supports the recommendation to maintain adequate or increased vitamin D and calcium intakes as one of the possible ways to protect against breast cancer and decrease adiposity.