bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Evolutionary Dynamics of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Group A in Recurrent Epidemics in Coastal Kenya
Authors: Otieno James R. , Agoti Charles N. , Gitahi Caroline W. , Bett Ann , Ngama Mwanajuma , Medley Graham F. , Cane Patricia A. , Nokes D. James
Published: March 2016

The characteristic recurrent epidemics of human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) within communities may result from the genetic variability of the virus and associated evolutionary adaptation, reducing the efficiency of preexisting immune responses. We analyzed the molecular evolutionary changes in the attachment (G) glycoprotein of RSV-A viruses collected over 13 epidemic seasons (2000 to 2012) in Kilifi (
n
= 649), Kenya, and contemporaneous sequences (
n
= 1,131) collected elsewhere within Kenya and 28 other countries. Genetic diversity in the G gene in Kilifi was dynamic both within and between epidemics, characterized by frequent new variant introductions and limited variant persistence between consecutive epidemics. Four RSV-A genotypes were detected in Kilifi: ON1 (11.9%), GA2 (75.5%), GA5 (12.3%), and GA3 (0.3%), with predominant genotype replacement of GA5 by GA2 and then GA2 by ON1. Within these genotypes, there was considerable variation in potential
N
-glycosylation sites, with GA2 and ON1 viruses showing up to 15 different patterns involving eight possible sites. Further, we identified 15 positively selected and 34 genotype-distinguishing codon sites, with six of these sites exhibiting both characteristics. The mean substitution rate of the G ectodomain for the Kilifi data set was estimated at 3.58 × 10
−3
(95% highest posterior density interval = 3.04 to 4.16) nucleotide substitutions/site/year. Kilifi viruses were interspersed in the global phylogenetic tree, clustering mostly with Kenyan and European sequences. Our findings highlight ongoing genetic evolution and high diversity of circulating RSV-A strains, locally and globally, with potential antigenic differences. Taken together, these provide a possible explanation on the nature of recurrent local RSV epidemics.

IMPORTANCE
The mechanisms underlying recurrent epidemics of RSV are poorly understood. We observe high genetic diversity in circulating strains within and between epidemics in both local and global settings. On longer time scales (∼7 years) there is sequential replacement of genotypes, whereas on shorter time scales (one epidemic to the next or within epidemics) there is a high turnover of variants within genotypes. Further, this genetic diversity is predicted to be associated with variation in antigenic profiles. These observations provide an explanation for recurrent RSV epidemics and have potential implications on the long-term effectiveness of vaccines.
Rationale, design and methodology of a trial evaluating three strategies designed to improve sedation quality in intensive care units (DESIST study)
Authors: Walsh Timothy S , Kydonaki Kalliopi , Antonelli Jean , Stephen Jacqueline , Lee Robert J , Everingham Kirsty , Hanley Janet , Uutelo Kimmo , Peltola Petra , Weir Christopher J
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To describe the rationale, design and methodology for a trial of three novel interventions developed to improve sedation-analgesia quality in adult intensive care units (ICUs).

Participants and Setting

8 clusters, each a Scottish ICU. All mechanically ventilated sedated patients were potentially eligible for inclusion in data analysis.

Design

Cluster randomised design in 8 ICUs, with ICUs randomised after 45 weeks baseline data collection to implement one of four intervention combinations: a web-based educational programme (2 ICUs); education plus regular sedation quality feedback using process control charts (2 ICUs); education plus a novel sedation monitoring technology (2 ICUs); or all three interventions. ICUs measured sedation-analgesia quality, relevant drug use and clinical outcomes, during a 45-week preintervention and 45-week postintervention period separated by an 8-week implementation period. The intended sample size was >100 patients per site per study period.

Main Outcome measures

The primary outcome was the proportion of 12 h care periods with optimum sedation-analgesia, defined as the absence of agitation, unnecessary deep sedation, poor relaxation and poor ventilator synchronisation. Secondary outcomes were proportions of care periods with each of these four components of optimum sedation and rates of sedation-related adverse events. Sedative and analgesic drug use, and ICU and hospital outcomes were also measured.

Analytic approach

Multilevel generalised linear regression mixed models will explore the effects of each intervention taking clustering into account, and adjusting for age, gender and APACHE II score. Sedation-analgesia quality outcomes will be explored at ICU level and individual patient level. A process evaluation using mixed methods including quantitative description of intervention implementation, focus groups and direct observation will provide explanatory information regarding any effects observed.

Conclusions

The DESIST study uses a novel design to provide system-level evaluation of three contrasting complex interventions on sedation-analgesia quality. Recruitment is complete and analysis ongoing.

Trial registration number

NCT01634451.
Sex differences in the effects of 12 weeks sprint interval training on body fat mass and the rates of fatty acid oxidation and VO2max during exercise
Authors: Bagley Liam , Slevin Mark , Bradburn Steven , Liu Donghui , Murgatroyd Chris , Morrissey George , Carroll Michael , Piasecki Mathew , Gilmore William S , McPhee Jamie S
Published: March 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine whether very short duration, very high intensity sprint interval training (SIT) leads to loss of body fat mass in association with improvements to VO2max and fatty acid oxidation, and to assess the extent of sex dimorphism in these physiological responses.

Methods

A total of 24 men and 17 women (mean (SEM) age: 39 (±2) years; body mass index 24.6 (0.6)) completed measurements of the maximal rate of oxygen uptake (VO2max) and fatty acid oxidation (FATmax). Body fat and lean mass were measured by dual emission x-ray absorptiometry, and fasting blood lipid, glucose and insulin profiles were assessed before and after training. SIT consisted of 4×20 s sprints on a cycle ergometer at approximately 175% VO2max, three times per week for 12 weeks.

Results

Fat mass decreased by 1.0 kg, although men lost statistically significantly more fat than women both when expressed in Kg and as % body fat. VO2max increased by around 9%, but women improved VO2max significantly more than men. FATmax improved by around 13%, but fasting plasma glucose, insulin, total triglyceride, total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) did not change after training, while low-density lipoprotein decreased by 8% (p=0.028) and the HDL:Total Cholesterol ratio improved by 6%. There were no sex differences in these metabolic responses to training.

Conclusions

These results show lower body fat %, and higher rates of fatty acid oxidation and VO2max after 12 weeks of training for just 4 min per week. Notably, women improved VO2max more than men, while men lost more fat than women.
Self-reported suicide ideation and attempts, and medical care for intentional self-harm in lesbians, gays and bisexuals in Sweden
Authors: Björkenstam Charlotte , Kosidou Kyriaki , Björkenstam Emma , Dalman Christina , Andersson Gunnar , Cochran Susan
Published: March 2016

Background

Minority sexual orientation is a robust risk indicator for self-reported suicidal ideation and attempts. However, little is known about patterns of medical care for intentional self-harm in this vulnerable population. We investigate sexual orientation-related differences in self-reported lifetime suicide symptoms and medical care for intentional self-harm between 1969 and 2010, including age at initial treatment and recurrence.

Methods

We used data from the Stockholm Public Health Cohort, a population-based sample of 874 lesbians/gays, 841 bisexuals and 67 980 heterosexuals, whose self-administered surveys have been linked to nationwide registers. Estimates of risk for medical care were calculated as incidence rate ratios (IRR) with 95% CIs.

Results

Both suicidal ideation and attempts were more commonly reported by lesbian/gay and bisexual (LGB) individuals. Adjusting for risk-time and confounding, lesbians (IRR 3.8, 95% CI 2.7 to 5.4) and bisexual women (IRR 5.4, 95% CI 4.4 to 6.6) experienced elevated risk for medical care for intentional self-harm, as compared to heterosexual women. Gay men evidenced higher risk (IRR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3 to 3.4) as compared to heterosexual men. Recurrent medical care was more frequent in LGB individuals, especially in bisexual women and gay men. Lesbian and bisexual women were also younger than heterosexual women when they first received medical care for intentional self-harm.

Conclusions

Positive histories of suicidal ideation, attempts and medical care for intentional self-harm, including higher levels of recurrence, are more prevalent among LGB individuals in contrast to heterosexuals. Lesbian/bisexual women evidence an earlier age of onset of treatment. Tailored prevention efforts are urgently needed.
PKCα–GSK3β–NF-κB signaling pathway and the possible involvement of TRIM21 in TRAIL-induced apoptosis
Authors: Gao Xuejuan , Xu Fengmei , Zhang Huan-Tian , Chen Miaojuan , Huang Wensi , Zhang Qihao , Zeng Qingzhong , Liu Langxia
Published: March 2016

Tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a highly promising therapeutic agent for cancer treatment, owing to its ability to selectively target tumor cells for cell death while having little effect on most normal cells. However, recent research has found that many cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), display resistance to TRAIL. Therefore, it is important to elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing the resistance of tumor cells to TRAIL treatment. In this study, we show that GSK3β antagonized TRAIL-induced apoptosis in H1299 NSCLC cells, and determined that the PKCα isozyme is an upstream regulator of GSK3β that phosphorylates and inactivates GSK3β, thereby sensitizing cancer cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the anti-apoptotic effect of GSK3β is mediated by the NF-κB pathway, whereas the tripartite motif 21 (TRIM21) was able to inhibit the activation of NF-κB by GSK3β, and leads to the promotion of cell apoptosis. Taken together, our study further delineated the underpinning mechanism of resistance to TRAIL-induced apoptosis in H1299 cells, and provided new clues for sensitizing NSCLC cells to TRAIL therapy.
Mini-block sampler
Authors: Emdal Arnfinn , Gylland Anders , Amundsen Helene A. , Kåsin Kristoffer , Long Michael
Published: March 2016

Challenges in obtaining high quality samples of sensitive low-plasticity clay in an effective manner have been overcome by the development of the mini-block sampler. The starting point for the development of the new sampler was the Sherbrooke block sampler that was first introduced in Canada in 1979. Although the Sherbrooke block sampler can produce high quality samples, its use, particularly in industrial projects, has been limited due to the perceived high costs, practical difficulties, and the time required. This paper outlines details of the development and design of the mini-block sampler together with developed techniques for protection and transportation of the samples and preparation of specimens for laboratory testing. The sampler has been used successfully at five Norwegian clay sites. For two of the sites comparative Sherbrooke samples were available and it is shown that the quality of the mini-block samples is very high and is at least as good as that of the Sherbrooke samples. The work also demonstrates that rigging, preparation, and sampling with the mini-block sampler is fast, practical and is not labour intensive. Furthermore the resulting samples are easy to transport and handle, but still provide sufficient material for extensive laboratory testing.
Calibration protocol for PARAMICS microscopic traffic simulation model: application of neuro-fuzzy approach
Authors: Reza Imran , Ratrout Nedal T. , Rahman Syed Masiur
Published: March 2016

This study investigated the challenges of calibration of the PARAMICS microscopic simulation model for the local traffic conditions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It proposed an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) based calibration protocol for the PARAMICS model. The developed ANFIS model performs adequately in modeling the queue length as a function of two key calibration parameters, namely mean headway time and mean reaction time. The selected values of the calibration parameters obtained through the ANFIS modeling approach were used as the input parameters for the PARAMICS model. The error indices such as mean absolute errors and mean absolute percentage errors of the developed ANFIS model in predicting the queue lengths varied between 1.11 and 1.24, and between 3.44 and 4.06, respectively. The conformance of the PARAMICS output and the measured queue length indicates the validity of the proposed calibration protocol.
Ac-SDKP suppresses TNF-α-induced ICAM-1 expression in endothelial cells via inhibition of IκB kinase and NF-κB activation
Authors: Zhu Liping , Yang Xiao-Ping , Janic Branislava , Rhaleb Nour-Eddine , Harding Pamela , Nakagawa Pablo , Peterson Edward L. , Carretero Oscar A.
Published: March 2016

N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) is a naturally occurring tetrapeptide that prevents inflammation and fibrosis in hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. We previously showed that, in angiotensin II-induced hypertension, Ac-SDKP decreased the activation of nuclear transcription factor NF-κB, whereas, in experimental autoimmune myocarditis and hypertension animal models, it also reduced the expression of endothelial leukocyte adhesion molecule ICAM-1. However, the mechanisms by which Ac-SDKP downregulated ICAM-1 expression are still unclear. TNF-α is a proinflammatory cytokine that induces ICAM-1 expression in various cell types via TNF receptor 1 and activation of the classical NF-κB pathway. We hypothesized that in endothelial cells Ac-SDKP suppresses TNF-α-induced ICAM-1 expression by decreasing IKK phosphorylation that as a consequence leads to a decrease of IκB phosphorylation and NF-κB activation. To test this hypothesis, human coronary artery endothelial cells were treated with Ac-SDKP and then stimulated with TNF-α. We found that TNF-α-induced ICAM-1 expression was significantly decreased by Ac-SDKP in a dose-dependent manner. Ac-SDKP also decreased TNF-α-induced NF-κB translocation from cytosol to nucleus, as assessed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay, which correlated with a decrease in IκB phosphorylation. In addition, we found that Ac-SDKP decreased TNF-α-induced IKK phosphorylation and IKK-β expression. However, Ac-SDKP had no effect on TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase or ERK. Thus we conclude that Ac-SDKP inhibition of TNF-α activation of canonical, i.e., IKK-β-dependent, NF-κB pathway and subsequent decrease in ICAM-1 expression is achieved via inhibition of IKK-β.
Exercise-induced protection against reperfusion arrhythmia involves stabilization of mitochondrial energetics
Authors: Alleman Rick J. , Tsang Alvin M. , Ryan Terence E. , Patteson Daniel J. , McClung Joseph M. , Spangenburg Espen E. , Shaikh Saame Raza , Neufer P. Darrell , Brown David A.
Published: March 2016

Mitochondria influence cardiac electrophysiology through energy- and redox-sensitive ion channels in the sarcolemma, with the collapse of energetics believed to be centrally involved in arrhythmogenesis. This study was conducted to determine if preservation of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) contributes to the antiarrhythmic effect of exercise. We utilized perfused hearts, isolated myocytes, and isolated mitochondria exposed to metabolic challenge to determine the effects of exercise on cardiac mitochondria. Hearts from sedentary (Sed) and exercised (Ex; 10 days of treadmill running) Sprague-Dawley rats were perfused on a two-photon microscope stage for simultaneous measurement of ΔΨm and ECG. After ischemia-reperfusion, the collapse of ΔΨm was commensurate with the onset of arrhythmia. Exercise preserved ΔΨm and decreased the incidence of fibrillation/tachycardia ( P < 0.05). Our findings in intact hearts were corroborated in isolated myocytes exposed to in vitro hypoxia-reoxygenation, with Ex rats demonstrating enhanced redox control and sustained ΔΨm during reoxygenation. Finally, we induced anoxia-reoxygenation in isolated mitochondria using high-resolution respirometry with simultaneous measurement of respiration and H2O2. Mitochondria from Ex rats sustained respiration with lower rates of H2O2 emission than Sed rats. Exercise helps sustain postischemic mitochondrial bioenergetics and redox homeostasis, which is associated with preserved ΔΨm and protection against reperfusion arrhythmia. The reduction of fatal ventricular arrhythmias through exercise-induced mitochondrial adaptations indicates that mitochondrial therapeutics may be an effective target for the treatment of heart disease.
Microparticles as biomarkers of lung disease: enumeration in biological fluids using lipid bilayer microspheres
Authors: McVey Mark J. , Spring Christopher M. , Semple John W. , Maishan Mazharul , Kuebler Wolfgang M.
Published: March 2016

Extracellular vesicles, specifically microparticles (MPs), are rapidly gaining attention for their capacity to act as biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, or responsiveness to therapy in lung disease, in keeping with the concept of precision medicine. However, MP analysis by high-sensitivity flow cytometry (FCM) is complicated by a lack of accurate means for MP enumeration. To address this gap, we report here an enhanced FCM MP gating and enumeration technique based on the use of novel engineered lipid bilayer microspheres (LBMs). By comparison of LBM-based MP enumeration with conventional bead- or fluorescent-based FCM enumeration techniques and a gravimetric consumption gold standard, we found LBMs to be superior to commercial bead preparations, showing the smallest fixed bias and limits of agreement in Bland Altman analyses. LBMs had simultaneous capacity to aid FCM enumeration of MPs in plasma, BAL, and cell culture supernatants. LBM enumeration detected differences in MP counts in mice exposed to intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide or saline. LBMs provided for 1) higher sensitivity for gating MPs populations, 2) reduced background within MP gates, 3) more appropriate size, and 4) an inexpensive alternative amenable to different fluorescent tags. LBM-based MP enumeration was useful for a series of different FCM systems assessed, whereas LBM gating benefited high- but not low-sensitivity FCM systems compared with fluorescence gating. By offering exclusive advantages over current means of gating and enumerating MPs, LBMs are uniquely suited to realizing the potential of MPs as biomarkers in biological lung fluids and facilitating precision medicine in lung disease.
Null Controllability of a Nonlinear Dissipative System and Application to the Detection of the Incomplete Parameter for a Nonlinear Population Dynamics Model
Authors: Simporé Yacouba , Traoré Oumar
Published: March 2016

We first prove a null controllability result for a nonlinear system derived from a nonlinear population dynamics model. In order to tackle the controllability problem we use an adapted Carleman inequality. Next we consider the nonlinear population dynamics model with a source term called the pollution term. In order to obtain information on the pollution term we use the method of sentinel.
Synergistic Activation of ERα by Estrogen and Prolactin in Breast Cancer Cells Requires Tyrosyl Phosphorylation of PAK1
Authors: Oladimeji Peter , Skerl Rebekah , Rusch Courtney , Diakonova Maria
Published: March 2016

Serine/threonine kinase PAK1 is activated by estrogen and plays an important role in breast cancer. However, the integration of PAK1 into the estrogen response is not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the hormone-induced activation of estrogen receptor (ERα, ESR1). We show that estrogen activated PAK1 through both the ERα and GPER1 membrane receptors. Estrogen-dependent activation of PAK1 required the phosphorylation of tyrosine residues by Etk/Bmx and protein kinase A (PKA) within an assembled signaling complex comprising pTyr-PAK1, Etk/Bmx, the heterotrimer G-protein subunits Gβ1, Gγ2, and/or Gγ5, PAK-associated guanine nucleotide exchange factor (βPIX, ARHGEF7), and PKA. Moreover, the PKA RIIβ subunit is a direct target of PAK1, and thus in response to estrogen, the activated pTyr-PAK1 complex reciprocally potentiated PKA activity, suggesting a positive feedback mechanism. We also demonstrate that PKA phosphorylated Ser305-ERα in response to estrogen, but pTyr-PAK1 phosphorylated Ser305-ERα in response to prolactin (PRL), implying that maximal ERα phosphorylation is achieved when cells are exposed to both PRL and estrogen. Furthermore, S305-ERα activation led to enhanced phosphorylation of Ser118-ERα and promoted cell proliferation and tumor growth. Together, these data strongly support a critical interplay between PRL and estrogen via PAK1 and suggest that ligand-independent activation of ERα through PRL/PAK1 may impart resistance to anti-estrogen therapies. Cancer Res; 76(9); 2600–11. ©2016 AACR.
TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand (TRAIL)–Armed Exosomes Deliver Proapoptotic Signals to Tumor Site
Authors: Rivoltini Licia , Chiodoni Claudia , Squarcina Paola , Tortoreto Monica , Villa Antonello , Vergani Barbara , Bürdek Maja , Botti Laura , Arioli Ivano , Cova Agata , Mauri Giorgio , Vergani Elisabetta , Bianchi Beatrice , Della Mina Pamela , Cantone Laura , Bollati Valentina , Zaffaroni Nadia , Gianni Alessandro Massimo , Colombo Mario Paolo , Huber Veronica
Published: March 2016

Purpose: Exosomes deliver signals to target cells and could thus be exploited as an innovative therapeutic tool. We investigated the ability of membrane TRAIL-armed exosomes to deliver proapoptotic signals to cancer cells and mediate growth inhibition in different tumor models.

Experimental Methods and Results: K562 cells, transduced with lentiviral human membrane TRAIL, were used for the production of TRAIL+ exosomes, which were studied by nanoparticle tracking analysis, cytofluorimetry, immunoelectronmicroscopy, Western blot, and ELISA. In vitro, TRAIL+ exosomes induced more pronounced apoptosis (detected by Annexin V/propidium iodide and activated caspase-3) in TRAIL-death receptor (DR)5+ cells (SUDHL4 lymphoma and INT12 melanoma), with respect to the DR5−DR4+KMS11 multiple myeloma. Intratumor injection of TRAIL+ exosomes, but not mock exosomes, induced growth inhibition of SUDHL4 (68%) and INT12 (51%), and necrosis in KMS11 tumors. After rapid blood clearance, systemically administered TRAIL+ exosomes accumulated in the liver, lungs, and spleen and homed to the tumor site, leading to a significant reduction of tumor growth (58%) in SUDHL4-bearing mice. The treatment of INT12-bearing animals promoted tumor necrosis and a not statistically significant tumor volume reduction. In KMS11-bearing mice, despite massive perivascular necrosis, no significant tumor growth inhibition was detected.

Conclusions: TRAIL-armed exosomes can induce apoptosis in cancer cells and control tumor progression in vivo. Therapeutic efficacy was particularly evident in intratumor setting, while depended on tumor model upon systemic administration. Thanks to their ability to deliver multiple signals, exosomes thus represent a promising therapeutic tool in cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 22(14); 3499–512. ©2016 AACR.
Edelfosine Promotes Apoptosis in Androgen-Deprived Prostate Tumors by Increasing ATF3 and Inhibiting Androgen Receptor Activity
Authors: Udayakumar Thirupandiyur S. , Stoyanova Radka , Shareef Mohammed M. , Mu Zhaomei , Philip Sakhi , Burnstein Kerry L. , Pollack Alan
Published: March 2016

Edelfosine is a synthetic alkyl-lysophospholipid that possesses significant antitumor activity in several human tumor models. Here, we investigated the effects of edelfosine combined with androgen deprivation (AD) in LNCaP and VCaP human prostate cancer cells. This treatment regimen greatly decreased cell proliferation compared with single agent or AD alone, resulting in higher levels of apoptosis in LNCaP compared with VCaP cells. Edelfosine caused a dose-dependent decrease in AKT activity, but did not affect the expression of total AKT in either cell line. Furthermore, edelfosine treatment inhibited the expression of androgen receptor (AR) and was associated with an increase in activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) expression levels, a stress response gene and a negative regulator of AR transactivation. ATF3 binds to AR after edelfosine + AD and represses the transcriptional activation of AR as demonstrated by PSA promoter studies. Knockdown of ATF3 using siRNA-ATF3 reversed the inhibition of PSA promoter activity, suggesting that the growth inhibition effect of edelfosine was ATF3 dependent. Moreover, expression of AR variant 7 (ARv7) and TMPRSS2-ERG fusion gene were greatly inhibited after combined treatment with AD and edelfosine in VCaP cells. In vivo experiments using an orthotopic LNCaP model confirmed the antitumor effects of edelfosine + AD over the individual treatments. A significant decrease in tumor volume and PSA levels was observed when edelfosine and AD were combined, compared with edelfosine alone. Edelfosine shows promise in combination with AD for the treatment of prostate cancer patients. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(6); 1353–63. ©2016 AACR.
Fetal Development of the Bovine Uterus: A Light Microscopy and Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Kenngott Rebecca A.-M. , Sinowatz Fred
Published: March 2016

Important steps during the prenatal development of the bovine uterus are described using conventional hematoxylin-eosin staining of fetuses from different developmental stages [crown-rump length (CRL) 9.2-94.0 cm]. Additionally, a number of intermediate filaments (keratin 7, 8, 14, 18, 19; and vimentin), the basement membrane protein laminin, smooth-muscle marker (SMA), and S100 were studied to further characterize certain differentiation processes. During early development, the uterine epithelium is simple or (pseudo)stratified with bud-like protrusions. Developing caruncles can be observed in the corpus uteri at a CRL of 15.8 cm onwards, showing a simple, keratin-positive epithelium. In contrast, the intercaruncular areas are characterized by a (pseudo)stratified epithelium, which also shows positive staining in a different manner for the investigated keratins. A differentiation of smooth muscle cell layers can be observed from a CRL of 24.4 cm onwards. Intense SMA-positive cells/fibers, arranged perpendicularly to the developing circular SMA-positive muscle cell layer, can be found preferentially located in the developing caruncles. Lymphocytes occur in the uterine epithelium and stroma in the corpora and cornua of fetuses with a CLR of 15.8 cm and higher.
Effect of Antiglaucoma Medicine on Intraocular Pressure in DBA/2J Mice
Authors: Sawada Kanako , Hiraoka Miki , Ohguro Hiroshi
Published: March 2016

Background: The DBA/2J mouse strain is known to develop glaucomatous changes. Intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuations affected by age or antiglaucoma drug administration were compared among three mouse strains, DBA/2J, C57BL/6, and BALB/c. Methods: IOP was measured using the TonoLab tonometer under systemic anesthesia. For each mouse strain, the effects of age and topical administration of antiglaucoma medications (timolol maleate, dorzolamide, brimonidine tartrate, and travoprost) were assessed, and results were compared among the three strains. Results: IOP started to rise in DBA/2J mice at 21 weeks of age. The highest values of IOP were distributed from 18 to 51 mm Hg. Eighty percent of DBA/2J mice showed maximum IOP at either 35 or 46 weeks. IOP of C57BL/6 ranged from 9 to 14 mm Hg as the mice aged. Treatment with any of the antiglaucoma medications resulted in IOP-lowering effects in all three strains. The difference in levels before and after administration ranged from 6 to 10 mm Hg on average in DBA/2J. Conclusion: DBA/2J mice are a useful animal model to study the effects of antiglaucoma therapy.
Validation of the Modification of the Prolonged Papanicolaou Stain for the Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Moya-Salazar Jeel , Rojas-Zumaran Victor
Published: March 2016

Objectives: To validate the modification of the prolonged Papanicolaou stain based on the quality control of time, units and staining stages (micro- and macroscopic), and on the stain reactivation based on the control. Study Design: A prospective study was performed on 125,358 cervical smears in Lima (Peru). The microscopic quality control included evaluating the cytological characteristics through the staining quality index (SQI) and the quality criteria for samples described by the Bethesda System (TBS). The macroscopic quality control is based on the interslide staining as a set corresponding to a poststaining vertical angle. The stains were reactivated with the addition of 0.15 and 2 g of phosphotungstic acid for Orange G and EA-50, respectively. Results: Both the nonneoplastic and the neoplastic findings comply with the quality criteria of the TBS (SQI value = 0.94). The yield per battery of staining fluctuated between 5,616 and 17,954 Pap smears, and the reactivation of stains produced a stain yield of up to four times the initial amount of the smears, saving USD 5,598.88 from 2013 to 2014. Conclusion: The modification of prolonged Papanicolaou staining is an excellent alternative, with a cost-benefit ratio that generates savings and a higher yield per battery of staining.
Circumscribed Storiform Collagenoma Associated with Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome in a Young Adolescent
Authors: Zavras Nick , Mennonna Rosario , Maris Spyros , Vaos George
Published: March 2016

Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome is a rare congenital neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by dysmorphic features, skeletal abnormalities, growth deficiency, and mental retardation. Circumscribed storiform collagenoma is a distinct benign fibromatous tumor that presents either as solitary tumor or in association with other syndromes. In this report, we describe a 16-year-old male with Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome associated with circumscribed storiform collagenoma. To our knowledge, this association has not been previously described in the literature.
Heterodera glycines cysts contain an extensive array of endoproteases as well as inhibitors of proteases in H. glycines and Meloidogyne incognita infective juvenile stages
Authors: Masler Edward P. , Chitwood David J.
Published: March 2016

Heterodera glycinescysts contain proteases, and inhibitors of protease activities in various nematode species. In this investigation, proteases inH. glycinescysts were identified using a commercially available FRET-peptide library comprising 512 peptide pools qualified to detect up to four endoprotease types (aspartic, cysteine, metallo- and serine). Native cyst content (nHglCE) digested peptides in over 96% of the pools with all four protease types identified. Serine and metalloproteases represented nearly 70% of all proteases detected and were examined further. Trypsin (serine) and matrix metalloprotease (MMP) activities were compared among nHglCE, andH. glycinessecond-stage juvenile (J2) andMeloidogyne incognitaJ2 extracts. The relative levels of activity were different for all three enzyme sources. Trypsin activity was up to 60-fold greater inM. incognitathan in eitherH. glycinessource, while MMP activity was highest in nHglCE and lowest inM. incognitaJ2. Heat-denatured cyst content (hHglCE) inhibited proteases in all three nematode preparations and was generally greater inM. incognitathan inH. glycines. Largest differences (5.2- to 6.4-fold) were observed betweenM. incognitaand nHglCE trypsin and MMP inhibition. In infective juveniles, hHglCE inhibitedM. incognitaJ2 trypsin (IC50 = 0.64 hHglCEeq reaction−1) and MMP (IC50 = 0.54) more potently than eitherH. glycinestrypsin (IC50 = 1.34) or MMP (IC50 = 1.84). Use of three MMP substrates (73, 74 and 80) revealed clear species differences as well as complex associations between activity and inhibition. MMP73 digestion rates were the same inH. glycinesandM. incognitabut responses to hHglCE inhibition were different. MMP80 digestion rates were different but inhibition was the same. MMP74 digestion rates and inhibition levels were each different between species. These experiments provide further evidence that theH. glycinescyst should be examined as a source of compounds useful for developing nematode control methods.
Beyond Appearances: The Risk-Reducing Effects of Responsible Investment Practices
Authors: Laurel-Fois Daniela
Published: March 2016

This article examines the theoretical motivations underlying the conflicting beliefs in support of and against responsible investment (RI) and presents unique quantitative evidence to illustrate how such conflicting logics produce a curvilinear (inverted U-shape) relationship between screening intensity and two measures of risk. First, I argue that, whereas limiting the investable universe by using RI screening criteria increases the risk specific to the portfolio, very high screening intensity can reduce this risk. This is due to the fact that information benefits enable fund managers to be more selective, allowing them to select less risky firms. Second, by drawing on behavioral studies, I argue that this same curvilinear relationship occurs when examining the flow of money coming in and out of a fund. That is, high RI screening makes ethical investors “stickier” and less likely to pull money out of a fund because they are attracted to its ethical properties. I test my hypotheses using a data set of all known European RI screening equity mutual funds. I generally find strong support for both hypotheses. This has an important implication for investors: For high screening intensity and meaningful RI practices, RI is associated with a significant risk reduction.
The Politics of Race and Educational Disparities in Delaware’s Public Schools
Authors: Davis Theodore J.
Published: March 2016

Delaware has long played a pivotal role in the nation’s struggle to end school segregation and promote educational equality. This article discusses racial disparities in educational achievement and outcomes by examining the state’s political history and the politics of race in public education. This article explores educational disparities from a socio-political perspective, which takes into consideration the direct and indirect influence of historical, political, socio-economic, and socio-cultural events on educational achievements and outcomes in the state. It finds that Black students in urban areas are influenced more by the politics of race in public education than Black students in non-urban school environments in the state. It also shows that the educational achievement and outcomes of Black students are influenced more by the politics of race than White students. It suggests that the politics of race in public education is influenced by political factors that extend well beyond those associated with the process of educating.
Authoritarian Institutions and State Repression
Authors: Rivera Mauricio
Published: March 2016

Existing research has paid increasing attention to the role of political institutions such as legislatures and opposition parties in autocracies. So far, however, the relationship between nondemocratic institutions and state repression has remained largely unclear. This article argues that authoritarian institutions are related to divergent conflicting dynamics between incumbent regimes and opposition actors, which provide leaders with opposite incentives to repress. While authoritarian legislatures enhance leaders’ capacity to prevent conflict and reduce their need for repression, the presence of opposition parties helps opposition actors to overcome collective action barriers and mobilize against the incumbent regime, increasing the states’ need for repression. A panel data analysis of nondemocracies from 1976 to 2007 shows that authoritarian-elected legislatures reduce repression and the presence of opposition parties increases it. Moreover, the results indicate that autocracies with opposition parties and an elected legislature experience lower repression than autocracies with opposition parties but no elected legislature.
Washing efficiency and fabric damage by beating and rubbing movements in comparison with a front-loading washer
Authors: Yun Changsang , Cho Yoonkyung , Park Chung Hee
Published: March 2016

The objective of this study was to evaluate washing performance by beating and rubbing movements that simulate traditional washing methods. By comparing washing performance between these washing methods and a front-loading washer, we examined the potential of the new washing technique and proposed an efficient washing system. In this study, the new rubbing movement, that mimics a washboard, shows low fabric damage with high washing efficiency. The rubbing movement provides high mechanical force, which allowed easy transfer between soil and the detergent solution on the fabric surface. Thus, efficient washing can be accomplished by rubbing movements which minimize fabric damage and achieve high washing efficiency. A beating movement that copies a laundry bat gave the lowest damage and washing performance, so may be used for delicate textiles. In addition, location changes through flexing enhanced washing efficiency and showed better performance than strong force in a fixed location.
Does Training in Table Creation Enhance Table Interpretation? A Quasi-Experimental Study With Follow-Up
Authors: Karazsia Bryan T. , Wong Kendal
Published: March 2016

Quantitative and statistical literacy are core domains in the undergraduate psychology curriculum. An important component of such literacy includes interpretation of visual aids, such as tables containing results from statistical analyses. This article presents results of a quasi-experimental study with longitudinal follow-up that tested the effectiveness of a new technique for enhancing student interpretation of American Psychological Association-formatted tables. Undergraduate students exposed to the technique performed better than students not exposed on measures of table interpretation. Effect sizes between groups were large, even after a 3-month follow-up assessment. An active learning experience in which students learn how to create tables can enhance student’s ability to interpret tables presented in empirical psychological literature.
How to Create Automatically Graded Spreadsheets for Statistics Courses
Authors: LoSchiavo Frank M.
Published: March 2016

Instructors often use spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel) in their statistics courses so that students can gain experience conducting computerized analyses. Unfortunately, students tend to make several predictable errors when programming spreadsheets. Without immediate feedback, programming errors are likely to go undetected, and as a result, students will likely encounter difficulty mastering this new skill. In this article, I share techniques for creating spreadsheets that grade themselves either by providing immediate feedback or by delaying feedback until instructors have completed necessary evaluations of student performance. Students prefer automatically graded spreadsheets to more traditional methods for checking answers, and in the long run, automatically graded spreadsheets can save instructors’ valuable time. Furthermore, the techniques that I discuss can be adapted to create automatically graded assignments for other courses.
State-and-disturbance-observer-based sliding mode control of magnetic levitation systems
Authors: Ginoya Divyesh , Gutte Chandrashekhar M , Shendge PD , Phadke SB
Published: March 2016

In this paper, a cascaded sliding mode control is designed for magnetic levitation systems usually comprised of an electrical loop and an electromechanical loop. A disturbance-observer-based sliding mode controller is designed for the electrical loop while a state-and-disturbance-observer-based sliding mode controller is designed for the electromechanical loop. The overall stability of the system is proved. The performance of the proposed scheme is compared with a conventional linear quadratic regulator combined with a proportional–integral controller by simulation as well as experimentation on a magnetic levitation setup in laboratory.
Differential Volume and Price Reactions to Loss Announcements and the Association With Loss Reversals
Authors: Dorminey Jack , Sivakumar Kumar , Vijayakumar Jayaraman
Published: March 2016

We examine differential volume–price reactions to loss announcements and their association with loss reversals. Our findings show that differential volume–price reactions are dissimilar between firms reporting profits and losses. In addition, the differential volume–price reactions surrounding loss announcements are useful in predicting loss reversals. When jointly considered, volume and price reactions provide unique information about future profitability for firms currently reporting losses. Overall, our results are consistent with losses generating more investor disagreements and more trading volume and show that a measure based on differential volume–price reactions to loss announcements is informative with regard to predicting subsequent loss reversals.
A Checklist for Alternatives in City–county Consolidation Decisions
Authors: Uden Amy B.
Published: March 2016

Conversations on local governmental efficiency typically suggest that fragmentation—having “too many” local units—is the primary deterrent to efficient and effective regional governance, and that consolidation is the best solution. This analysis examines these implicit assumptions using evidence from the current literature and a comparative case analysis. It explores alternatives for unification by looking at city–county consolidation attempts in midsize jurisdictions with an urban–rural mix. It also presents a checklist tool to assist practitioners in considering important underlying factors in their jurisdictions. Finally, it applies an interpretive guide to the checklist to help select among the contingent paths toward jurisdictional unification.
Links between marital quality, the mother–child relationship and child behavior
Authors: Mark Katharine M. , Pike Alison
Published: March 2016

We investigated the association between marital quality and child behavior, assessing mother–child relationship quality as a potential mediator. The sample included 78 mothers with two target children (mean ages = 9.82 and 12.05 years, respectively). Mothers reported on their children’s behavior as well as their marital quality, while each child reported on their relationship with their mother. Confirming our hypothesis, marital quality did relate to child behavior. Contrary to our expectations, the mother–child relationship provided negligible mediation of the link, but did provide significant prediction of child behavior in its own right. Importantly, our findings show differential outcomes for children within the same family, supporting a differentiated child-specific outlook. Further evidence that both marital quality and shared, as well as differential, mother–child relationships link with child behavior is provided here. Consequently, interventions with the aim of decreasing children’s behavioral problems and increasing more positive conduct can usefully include a focus on the nature of the parents’ romantic relationship, alongside parenting.
Are Mothers’ and Fathers’ Parenting Characteristics Associated With Emerging Adults’ Academic Engagement?
Authors: Waterman Emily A. , Lefkowitz Eva S.
Published: March 2016

Although parenting is clearly linked to academic engagement in adolescence, less is known about links between parenting and academic engagement in emerging adulthood. A diverse sample of college students ( N = 633; 53.1% female, 45.7% White/European American, 28.3% Asian American/Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, 26.4% Hispanic/Latino American, 21.6% Black/African American, and 2.8% Native American/American Indian) answered surveys about mothers’ and fathers’ parenting style, parent–offspring relationship quality, academic attitudes, academic behaviors, and academic performance. Emerging adults with more permissive mothers viewed grades as less important than emerging adults with less permissive mothers. Mothers’ authoritarian parenting, mothers’ permissive parenting, and relationship quality with father were differentially related to academic engagement depending on emerging adults’ gender. Both mothers’ and fathers’ parenting characteristics may affect the academic engagement of emerging adults via past parenting behaviors and current quality of the parent–offspring relationship, despite decreased physical proximity of emerging adults and their parents.
The bereavement experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* people who have lost a partner: A systematic review, thematic synthesis and modelling of the literature
Authors: Bristowe Katherine , Marshall Steve , Harding Richard
Published: March 2016

Background:

Socially excluded populations have poorer access to care; however, little attention has been paid to lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* people. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* people are at increased risk of certain life-limiting illnesses and may not receive the care and support they need at the end of life and into bereavement.

Aim:

To identify and appraise the evidence of the bereavement experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* people who have lost a partner and develop an explanatory model of lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* partner bereavement.

Design:

Systematic review (in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines) and thematic synthesis with assessment of reporting and rigour. Quantitative or qualitative articles reporting bereavement experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* partners were included, excluding articles reporting multiple losses in the context of HIV or AIDS.

Data sources:

PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library. Inclusion dates: database inception – 30 April 2015.

Results:

A total of 23 articles reporting on 13 studies were identified. Studies described universal experiences of the pain of losing a partner; however, additional barriers and stressors were reported for lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* people, including homophobia, failure to acknowledge the relationship, additional legal and financial issues and the ‘shadow’ of HIV or AIDS. A novel model was developed to explain how the experience for lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* people is shaped by whether the relationship was disclosed and acknowledged in life and into bereavement and how this impacts upon needs and access to care.

Conclusion:

There is a need for healthcare providers to avoid hetero-normative assumptions; be mindful of additional stressors in bereavement for lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans* people; and consider additional sources of support to deliver individualised holistic care.