bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The vitamin D receptor in the proximal renal tubule is a key regulator of serum 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3
Authors: Wang Yongji , Zhu Jinge , DeLuca Hector F.
Published: November 2014

It is well established that the mitochondria of proximal convoluted tubule cells of the kidney are the site of production of circulating 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3]. The production of 1,25(OH)2D3 at this site is tightly regulated. Parathyroid hormone markedly stimulates 1,25(OH)2D3 production, whereas 1,25(OH)2D3 itself suppresses production. The mechanism of suppression by 1,25(OH)2D3 has not yet been elucidated. We have now found that in the absence of vitamin D (vitamin D deficiency), the vitamin D receptor (VDR) is found in the interior of the apical brush border of the proximal tubule cells. This is unique for the proximal tubule cells, since this has not been observed in the distal tubule cells or in other epithelial cells, such as intestinal mucosa. Administration of 1,25(OH)2D3 to vitamin D-deficient rats results in the movement of VDR from the brush border to the cytoplasm and nucleus presumably bound to reabsorbed 1,25(OH)2D3. The VDR bound to 1,25(OH)2D3 suppresses expression of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 1α-hydroxylase and stimulates the 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 24-hydroxylase. Thus, VDR in the apical brush border of the proximal convoluted tubule cells serves to “sense” the level of circulating 1,25(OH)2D3 and modulates the activity of the 1α-hydroxylase and the 24-hydroxylase accordingly.
Assessment of an Average Controller for a DC/DC Converter via Either a PWM or a Sigma-Delta-Modulator
Authors: Silva-Ortigoza R. , Carrizosa-Corral F. , Gálvez-Gamboa J. J. , Marcelino-Aranda M. , Muñoz-Carrillo D. , Taud H.
Published: November 2014

Sliding mode control is a discontinuous control technique that is, by its nature, appropriate for controlling variable structure systems, such as the switch regulated systems employed in power electronics. However, when designing control laws based on the average models of these systems a modulator is necessary for their experimental implementation. Among the most widely used modulators in power electronics are the pulse width modulation (PWM) and, more recently, the sigma-delta-modulator (Σ-Δ-modulator). Based on the importance of achieving an appropriate implementation of average control laws and the relevance of the trajectory tracking task in DC/DC power converters, for the first time, this research presents the assessment of the experimental results obtained when one of these controllers is implemented through either a PWM or aΣ-Δ-modulator to perform such a task. A comparative assessment based on the integral square error (ISE) index shows that, at frequencies with similar efficiency, theΣ-Δ-modulator provides a better tracking performance for the DC/DC Buck converter. In this paper, an average control based on differential flatness was used to perform the experiments. It is worth mentioning that a different trajectory tracking controller could have been selected for this research.
Biological Pathotyping of Newcastle Disease Viruses in Sudan 2008–2013
Authors: Bilal Egbal Sidahmed Abdelrahim , Elnasri Iman Mohammed , Alhassan Aymen Mohamed , Khalifa Khalda Abdelaziz , Elhag Jedddha Ibrahim , Ahmed Selma Osman
Published: November 2014

The biological properties and pathogenicity of seven Newcastle disease virus field isolates were studied. These isolates were recovered from different outbreaks in Sudan (5 from chickens and 2 from pigeons) during 2008–2013. Based on intracerebral pathogenicity index, four NDV isolates were characterized as velogenic (their ICPI ranged 2.0–1.6) and three isolates were characterized as mesogenic (ICPI ranged 1.2–1.3). The mean death time for all isolates ranged from 54 to 76.8 hours. The elution time of the viruses from chicken erythrocytes and the ability to haemagglutinate mammalian red blood cells differed considerably in their reactions.
The Management of Gas-Filled Eyes in the Emergency Department
Authors: Lim Lik Thai , Ah-kee Elliott Y. , House Beve P. , Walker Jonathan D.
Published: November 2014

Background. Intraocular gas bubbles are commonly used in retinal surgery. There are specific management guidelines that need to be followed to ensure surgical success, and there are also unique ophthalmic and systemic complications that can occur in such patients.Objective. To educate emergency department personnel about important issues in the management of patients who have a gas-filled eye following retinal surgery.Case Report. A patient with a gas-filled eye developed several complications including pain, severe vision loss, high-grade atrioventricular (AV) block, and pneumocephalus.Conclusion. Awareness of potential problems that may arise in patients with gas-filled eyes who present to the emergency department may help minimize morbidity for such patients.
Resveratrol as a Therapeutic Agent for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ma Teng , Tan Meng-Shan , Yu Jin-Tai , Tan Lan
Published: November 2014

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, but there is no effective therapy till now. The pathogenic mechanisms of AD are considerably complex, including Aβaccumulation, tau protein phosphorylation, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Exactly, resveratrol, a polyphenol in red wine and many plants, is indicated to show the neuroprotective effect on mechanisms mostly above. Recent years, there are numerous researches about resveratrol acting on AD in many models, both in vitro and in vivo. However, the effects of resveratrol are limited by its pool bioavailability; therefore researchers have been trying a variety of methods to improve the efficiency. This review summarizes the recent studies in cell cultures and animal models, mainly discusses the molecular mechanisms of the neuroprotective effects of resveratrol, and thus investigates the therapeutic potential in AD.
Nonlinear Langevin Equation of Hadamard-Caputo Type Fractional Derivatives with Nonlocal Fractional Integral Conditions
Authors: Tariboon Jessada , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Thaiprayoon Chatthai
Published: November 2014

We study existence and uniqueness of solutions for a problem consisting of nonlinear Langevin equation of Hadamard-Caputo type fractional derivatives with nonlocal fractional integral conditions. A variety of fixed point theorems are used, such as Banach’s fixed point theorem, Krasnoselskii’s fixed point theorem, Leray-Schauder’s nonlinear alternative, and Leray-Schauder’s degree theory. Enlightening examples illustrating the obtained results are also presented.
Radial Basis Function Neural Network with Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithms for Regional Logistics Demand Prediction
Authors: Hu Zhineng , Zhang Yixin , Yao Liming
Published: November 2014

Regional logistics prediction is the key step in regional logistics planning and logistics resources rationalization. Since regional economy is the inherent and determinative factor of regional logistics demand, it is feasible to forecast regional logistics demand by investigating economic indicators which can accelerate the harmonious development of regional logistics industry and regional economy. In this paper, the PSO-RBFNN model, a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) combined with particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, is studied. The PSO-RBFNN model is trained by indicators data in a region to predict the regional logistics demand. And the corresponding results indicate the model’s applicability and potential advantages.
Study on Zero-Doppler Centroid Control for GEO SAR Ground Observation
Authors: Jiang Yicheng , Hu Bin , Zhang Yun , Lian Meng , Wang Zhuoqun
Published: November 2014

In geosynchronous Earth orbit SAR (GEO SAR), Doppler centroid compensation is a key step for imaging process, which could be performed by the attitude steering of a satellite platform. However, this zero-Doppler centroid control method does not work well when the look angle of radar is out of an expected range. This paper primarily analyzes the Doppler properties of GEO SAR in the Earth rectangular coordinate. Then, according to the actual conditions of the GEO SAR ground observation, the effective range is presented by the minimum and maximum possible look angles which are directly related to the orbital parameters. Based on the vector analysis, a new approach for zero-Doppler centroid control in GEO SAR, performing the attitude steering by a combination of pitch and roll rotation, is put forward. This approach, considering the Earth’s rotation and elliptical orbit effects, can accurately reduce the residual Doppler centroid. All the simulation results verify the correctness of the range of look angle and the proposed steering method.
Inhibition of Neutrophil Collagenase/MMP-8 and Gelatinase B/MMP-9 and Protection against Endotoxin Shock
Authors: Qiu Zheng , Chen Jianghai , Xu Hanmei , Van den Steen Philippe E. , Opdenakker Ghislain , Wang Min , Hu Jialiang
Published: November 2014

Endotoxin shock is a life-threatening disorder, associated with the rapid release of neutrophil enzymes, including neutrophil collagenase/matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) and gelatinase B/matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). After activation, these enzymes cleave extracellular matrix components and cytokines and thus may contribute to shock syndrome development. MMP inhibitors have been suggested as immunotherapy of endotoxin shock. However, little is known about the therapeutic time window of MMP inhibition. Here, a sublethal endotoxin shock mouse model was used to evaluate the effect of an MMP inhibiting peptide (P2) after intravenous or intraperitoneal injection and to study the time window between LPS and inhibitor injections. With the use of a specific ELISA the plasma P2 concentrations were monitored. Whereas we corroborated the treatment strategy of MMP targeting in endotoxin shock with a new inhibitor, we also demonstrated that the time window, within which effective MMP inhibition increased the survival rates, is rather limited.
The High-Dose Aldesleukin “Select” Trial: A Trial to Prospectively Validate Predictive Models of Response to Treatment in Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: McDermott David F. , Cheng Su-Chun , Signoretti Sabina , Margolin Kim A. , Clark Joseph I. , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Dutcher Janice P. , Logan Theodore F. , Curti Brendan D. , Ernstoff Marc S. , Appleman Leonard , Wong Michael K.K. , Khushalani Nikhil I. , Oleksowicz Leslie , Vaishampayan Ulka N. , Mier James W. , Panka David J. , Bhatt Rupal S. , Bailey Alexandra S. , Leibovich Bradley C. , Kwon Eugene D. , Kabbinavar Fairooz F. , Belldegrun Arie S. , Figlin Robert A. , Pantuck Allan J. , Regan Meredith M. , Atkins Michael B.
Published: November 2014

Purpose: High-dose aldesleukin (HD IL2) received FDA approval for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (MRCC) in 1992, producing a 14% objective response rate (ORR) and durable remissions. Retrospective studies suggested that clinical and pathologic features could predict for benefit. The Cytokine Working Group conducted this prospective trial to validate proposed predictive markers of response to HD IL2.

Experimental Design: Standard HD IL2 was administered to prospectively evaluate whether the ORR of patients with mRCC with “good” predictive pathologic features based on an “integrated selection” model [ISM (e.g., clear-cell histology subclassification and carbonic anhydrase-9 (CA-9) IHC staining] was significantly higher than the ORR of a historical, unselected population. Archived tumor was collected for pathologic analysis including tumor programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression.

Results: One hundred and twenty eligible patients were enrolled between June 11 and September 7; 70% were Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, NY) intermediate risk, 96% had clear cell RCC, and 99% had prior nephrectomy. The independently assessed ORR was 25% (30/120, 95% CI, 17.5%–33.7%, P = 0.0014; 3 complete responses, 27 partial responses) and was higher than a historical ORR. Thirteen patients (11%) remained progression free at 3 years and the median overall survival was 42.8 months. ORR was not statistically different by ISM classification (“good-risk” 23% vs. “poor-risk” 30%; P = 0.39). ORR was positively associated with tumor PD-L1 expression (P = 0.01) by IHC.

Conclusions: In this prospective, biomarker validation study, HD IL2 produced durable remissions and prolonged survival in both “good” and “poor-risk” patients. The proposed ISM was unable to improve the selection criteria. Novel markers (e.g., tumor PD L1 expression) appeared useful, but require independent validation. Clin Cancer Res; 21(3); 561–8. ©2014 AACR.
GAD Antibody-Associated Late-Onset Cerebellar Ataxia in Two Female Siblings
Authors: Kuchling Joseph , Shababi-Klein Julia , Nümann Astrid , Gerischer Lea M. , Harms Lutz , Prüss Harald
Published: November 2014

Background: Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GAD-ab)-associated cerebellar ataxia is a rare neurological disorder characterized by cerebellar symptoms concomitant with high GAD-ab levels in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Case Report: We report on 2 female siblings (aged 74 and 76 years) presenting with gradual progression of rotational vertigo, gait ataxia and vertical diplopia, continuously progressing for 6 months and 6 years, respectively. Autoimmune laboratory examinations showed remarkably increased serum and CSF GAD-ab levels. Their medical histories revealed late-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and other concomitant autoimmune disorders (Grave's disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis). Cerebral MRI and laboratory examinations were unremarkable. The diagnosis of GAD-ab-associated cerebellar ataxia with particular brainstem involvement was established in both women. After the exclusion of an underlying malignancy, immunosuppressive therapy has been initiated in both patients, which resulted in stabilization in one and in clinical improvement in the other patient. Discussion: The unique association of autoantibody-mediated cerebellar ataxia and late-onset T1DM in 2 siblings with similar clinical and paraclinical phenotypes strengthens the concept that hereditary factors might play a relevant role also in autoimmune diseases so far considered to be sporadic. Moreover, the occurrence of continuous vertical diplopia broadens the clinical spectrum of GAD-ab-associated neurological syndromes.
Serum Leptin and Skeletal Differences between Obese and Non-Obese Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Koršić Marta , Kušec Vesna
Published: November 2014

Objective: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects body composition, adipokine secretion, and skeletal integrity. The aim was to determine the association between leptin, body mass (BM) and body composition parameters - fat mass (FM) and fat mass index (FMI), lean tissue mass (LTM), lean tissue mass index (LTMI) and bone mineral density (BMD) in 67 male COPD patients. Methods: BM, body composition and biochemical indicators were measured or calculated using standard methods. Data were analyzed according to groups: non-obese (N = 48, BMI 21.0-29.9 kg/m2) and obese (N = 19, BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m2). Results: In the non-obese group statistically significant correlations were observed: negative ones of age with most BMD T scores, positive ones of BMI with all T scores, FM, FMI, LTMI and leptin, of FMI with leptin and all T scores, and of LTMI with most T scores. In the obese group also statistically significant correlations were found: positive ones of BMI with FMI, LTM, leptin and T scores (trochanter, total hip); of FMI with leptin; and of leptin with total hip T score. Conclusion: A positive relationship between FMI and BMD was found only in non-obese but not in obese COPD patients. Leptin concentration was associated positively with the total hip T score only in obese COPD patients, suggesting its protective role on the skeleton of obese COPD patients.
Implementasi Metode Studio-Based Learning dalam Pengelolaan dan Prosedur Pembelajaran Studio Perancangan Arsitektur
Authors: Rijal Muhammad , Aldy Pedia
Published: November 2014

Learning Model studio known as Studio - Based Learning (SBL) has the main features hands-on or first hand experience or learning by doing. Ideally, most of the SBL activities, either individually or in groups, conducted in a studio which was accompanied by a number of teachers / assistants. Student’s evaluation efficiently when using the method of correlational research conducted with data collection and analysis of questionnaire data with the statistics. Questions in the questionnaire were arranged by following structure: the ability of professors, lecturer’s attitudes, organization of the studio system, the ability of students, and student attitudes. Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK) was conducted on students of Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering UR S1 are taking courses in Architectural Design Studio 2010/2011 academic year, are 22 students. Four cycles of study procedures are planning, action, observation and reflection. Quantitive analysis was used to data analysis. The result of the research was the assessment of knowledge of the supervisor, supervisor attitudes, and the studio administration systems are good category.
Critical Analysis of a Website: A Critique based on Critical Applied Linguistics and Critical Discourse Analysis
Authors: Agustina Rina
Published: November 2014

E-learning was easily found through browsing internet, which was mostly free of charge and provided various learning materials. Spellingcity.com was one of e-learning websites for teaching and learning English to learn spelling, vocabulary and writing, which offered various games and activities for young learners, 6 until 8 year old learners in particular. Having considered those constraints, this paper aimed to analyse the website from two different views: (1) critical applied linguistics  (CAL) aspects and (2) critical  discourse analysis (CDA). After analysing the website using CAL and CDA, it was found that the website was adequate for beginner, in which it provided fun learning through games as well as challenged learners’ to test their vocabulary. Despite of these strengths, there were several issues required further thinking in terms of learners’ broad knowledge, such as, some of learning materials focused on states in America. It was quite difficult for EFL learners if they did not have adequate general knowledge. Thus, the findings implied that the website could be used as a supporting learning material, which accompanied textbooks and vocabulary exercise books.
Moving Beyond On Home Country: Developing Global Citizenship through International Learning in Japan
Authors: Muhammad Nor Rahimah , Mustafa Zakaria
Published: November 2014

Globalization causes increasing competition in facing future challenges become more intense. Students as new generation the future need to improve their ability and talents in term of foreign language proficiency, knowledge, intercultural competency to remain viable. Students mobility to abroad as platform to build student’s knowledge, skills and character and the experience become more reflective to the workforce needs of today. This paper examine the impact of study abroad program among Malaysian students (N=245) who studying in Japan. Quantitative analysis of the data revealed that strongest influenced study abroad participation that (a) enhanced their tolerance towards people who different culture, (b) enhanced their awareness about cultural difference, (c) influenced their awareness of the importance of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Japan and (d) increased their desire to engage in employment sector organization or international company and enhanced their Japanese language skills. The result gives an insight that study abroad program will give them opportunity to get out from their own culture and society to explore new worlds, build their own identity and competencies, and challenge ourselves to work or living together with people who have different cultural background. Study abroad program will provide first-hand learning experience to students.
Leadership Skills Development Through Service Learning
Authors: A. Ejiwale James
Published: November 2014

The engagement of students in service learning will help them acquire and improve on necessary leadership skills required of them upon graduation. This is essential to help prepare and put the graduates of STEM programs at the forefront of employment in the new industrial revolution. It is therefore important that STEM majors should participate in service learning so as to discharge their civic responsibility and to improve their leadership skills. This paper addresses the forms, assessment and the need for service learning in STEM programs and how it can help develop the leadership skills of Â the participants.
Implementation of Collaborative Learning in Higher Education Environment
Authors: Wicaksono Soetam Rizky
Published: November 2014

The need of  improvement in learning process, especially in higher education environment, has already begun a dilemma for many lecturers. Many experts has already agreed that one of the success factor in learning process improvement is creating collaboration among students. This pre-eliminary action research tried to implement collaborative learning from small groups using simple task and escalating into large group with more complicated collaborative framework. Although there is no quantification result in this research, the questionnaire result has already proven that collaborative learning is feasible in higher education environment. However, further research in term of collaborative learning can be done easier using the result from this research.
English Language Teaching: Teaching of Hedges
Authors: Ko Charles
Published: November 2014

A hedge is a mitigating word or sound used to lessen the impact of an utterance. It can be an adjective, for example, â€˜Small potato me is not as strong as youâ€™; or an adverb: â€˜I maybe can swim faster than youâ€™, while it can also consist of clauses, that it could be regarded as a form of euphemism which should be taught as a main topic in English class of schools around the world. For instance, in Hong Kong schools, based on my observation while teaching in a number of primary and secondary English courses as a tutor, students report that their school teachers usually emphasize the teaching of all cohesive devices in terms of skills of writing while they neglect to explain the importance of the use of hedges in order to show euphemism. In this study, I would adopt Corpus Linguistics, a division of applied linguistics, as methodology to discover a great deal of hedges employed by so-called native speakers of English, for promoting the idiomatic usage of hedges in writing, nevertheless in speaking, so as to help teachers gain resources and inspiration in teaching to students the appropriate English hedges as a consequence of the authorâ€™s hard effort while revealing from the selected corpora of this paper.
Teaching Geometrical Figures in Waray: The LNU-ILS Experience
Authors: Q. Oyzon Voltaire , C. Lubio Cyrene , Salamia Jose Ismael , M. Ripalda Lorena
Published: November 2014

Waray children are â€œunconsciously shifting from their mother language to English and/or Tagalog in their vocabulary useâ€. English vocabularies are more familiar to Waray educands of today than are the indigenous Waray terms, for instance, for geometrical figures, colors, numbers, etc. Still, â€œit is an ongoing debate of what type of language should be used in the implementation of MTBMLE.â€ Should educators use a Waray that borrows heavily from English and other languages or a Waray that uses exclusively its own indigenous terms and concepts? The researchers formulate a single lesson plan using an inductive method incorporating the Montessori Approach. We have two types of pupils at LNU-ILS: Waray pupils whose language at home is Waray, and Waray pupils who are exposed to English at home.
The Impacts of Internationalization and Globalization on Educational Context
Authors: Heriansyah Hendra
Published: November 2014

This paper addresses the impacts of internationalization and globalization on educational context. It is undeniable that the presence and existence of globalization have brought and given a great deal of influences within various fields including on education sector. Of course, it will be a problematic if a school or a higher education institution does not comprehensively notice and precisely pay attention towards each effect and development from internationalization and globalization that obviously appear. Hence, it is needed an international curriculum design that has the meticulous content and process as well as assessment. Moreover, the curriculum also has to take account a variety of aspects and components from distinctive perspectives within its plan, array, and implementation in the field in order to meet the demands of global marketplace and be able to answer each of challenges and changes that arise.
Limiting Skills Gap Effect on Future College Graduates
Authors: A. Ejiwale James
Published: November 2014

Many graduates upon graduation from college or university find it difficult to get the job they planned to enter after they leave school. Employers are claiming that the new graduates are not equipped with the necessary skills required to work for them. Hence, they are not hirable. Obviously, it is easy to shift blame on academic for failing to prepare students with the necessary skills to be gainfully employed upon graduation. However, this is an issue that needs to be addressed jointly by all stakeholders involved in educating these potential college graduates while in school. This article addresses what skills gap is, some of its causes, and what to be done by students, educators and the industry to limit its effect on the future college graduates.
Interrogation in Teacher-Student Interaction in Bahasa Indonesia Learning at Elementary School
Authors: Hamsa Akmal , Sultan Sultan
Published: November 2014

Interrogation in Teacher-Student Interaction in Bahasa Indonesia Learning at Elementary School. This study aimed to describe the form, function, and questioning strategies teachers in teacher-student interrogation in Bahasa Indonesia learning in elementary school. Data sourced from four teacher of elementary school, SDN Tamangapa and SD Inpres Tamangapa. Data were obtained by (1) recording, (2) documentation, (3) field notes, (4) interview. The results showed that: (1) the form of questioning the teacher in the teacher-student interaction in Bahasa Indonesia learning in primary schools generally examined the low-level thinking skills, (2) functions of teacher questions are generally intended to check student understanding, and (3) teachers utilize a variety of strategies in addressing student answers correctly and the apparent hesitation. Some disadvantages are indicated teachers in providing interrogation.
The Dynamics of Malay Culture in West Kalimantan in the 20th Century
Authors: Ahyat Ita Syamtasiyah
Published: November 2014

There are various Malay communities in West Kalimantan, which can be divided into two broad categories: (1) Malay migrants from outside Kalimantan (West Kalimantan) or contemporary Malays and (2) local Malays or native Malays who are considered as indigenous Malays. Contemporary Malays are Malay people who came from various areas in Sumatra, Riau Islands, Malay peninsula, East Malaysia (Serawak and Sabah States), and Brunei Darussalam. This paper aims to reconstruct the dynamics of Malay culture in West Kalimantan. This historiographical project is undertaken by applying historical method which consists of several main steps: searching for relevant sources, selecting the sources, interpreting the sources, and reconstructing events as relevant to the main topic. Bibliography consists of local sources, documents, and works of foreign scholars which are relevant to the topic.
The Development of Writing Learning Model Based on the Arces Motivation for Students of Senior High School
Authors: Kosasih Andreas
Published: November 2014

This research obtains some of the findings which in a word can be described as follows: (1) the step of Introduction (exploration): through study library and observation, it can be found that the quality of writing learning and the need of a better writing learning model, and it is formulated the prototype of writing learning model based on the ARCES motivation, serta dirumuskan prototipe model pembelajaran menulis berbasis motivasi ARCES after the draft is validated by the Indonesian language experts and education technology experts. (2) The step of model development: through development of preliminary model and development of  main model and after it is done by  monitoring, evaluation, focus group discussion and revision, then it is produced a better writing learning model based on ARCES motivation. (3) The step of model effectiveness examination: through pre-test, treatment, and post-test which is produced writing learning model  based on ARCES motivation. From the effectiveness test result of model, it can be concluded that writing learning based on ARCES motivation is more effective (in average value of post test is 83,94) than writing learning conventionally (in average value of post-test is 75,79).
A Role for Partial Endothelial–Mesenchymal Transitions in Angiogenesis?
Authors: Welch-Reardon Katrina M. , Wu Nan , Hughes Christopher C.W.
Published: November 2014

The contribution of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions (EMT) in both developmental and pathological conditions has been widely recognized and studied. In a parallel process, governed by a similar set of signaling and transcription factors, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transitions (EndoMT) contribute to heart valve formation and the generation of cancer-associated fibroblasts. During angiogenic sprouting, endothelial cells express many of the same genes and break down basement membrane; however, they retain intercellular junctions and migrate as a connected train of cells rather than as individual cells. This has been termed a partial endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. A key regulatory check-point determines whether cells undergo a full or a partial epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions/endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition; however, very little is known about how this switch is controlled. Here we discuss these developmental/pathological pathways, with a particular focus on their role in vascular biology.
Transcatheter Closure of Large Atrial Septal Defects
Authors: Baruteau Alban-Elouen , Petit Jérôme , Lambert Virginie , Gouton Marielle , Piot Dominique , Brenot Philippe , Angel Claude-Yves , Houyel Lucile , Le Bret Emmanuel , Roussin Régine , Ly Mohamedou , Capderou André , Belli Emre
Published: November 2014

Background—

Data are needed on the safety and efficacy of device closure of large atrial septal defects.

Methods and Results—

Between 1998 and 2013, 336 patients (161 children <15 years) with large, isolated, secundum atrial septal defects (balloon-stretched diameter ≥34 mm in adults or echocardiographic diameter >15 mm/m
2
in children) were managed using the Amplatzer device, at the Marie Lannelongue Hospital. Transthoracic echocardiographic guidance was used starting in 2005 (n=219; 65.2%). Balloon-stretched diameter was >40 mm in 36 adults; mean values were 37.6±3.3 mm in other adults and 26.3±6.3 mm/m
2
in children. Amplatzer closure was successful in 311 (92.6%; 95% confidence interval, 89%–95%) patients. Superior and posterior rim deficiencies were more common in failed than in successful procedures (superior, 24.0% versus 4.8%;
P
=0.002; and posterior, 32.0% versus 4.2%;
P
<0.001). Device migration occurred in 4 adults (2 cases each of surgical and transcatheter retrieval); in the 21 remaining failures, the device was unreleased and withdrawn. After a median follow-up of 10.0 years (2.5–17 years), all patients were alive with no history of late complications.

Conclusions—

Closure of large atrial septal defects using the Amplatzer device is safe and effective in both adults and children. Superior and posterior rim deficiencies are associated with procedural failure. Closure can be performed under transthoracic echocardiographic guidance in experienced centers. Early device migration is rare and can be safely managed by device extraction. Long-term follow-up showed no deaths or major late complications in our population of 311 patients.
Cardiovascular Lifetime Risk Predicts Incidence of Coronary Calcification in Individuals With Low Short‐Term Risk: The Dallas Heart Study
Authors: Paixao Andre R. M. , Ayers Colby R. , Rohatgi Anand , Das Sandeep R. , de Lemos James A. , Khera Amit , Lloyd‐Jones Donald , Berry Jarett D.
Published: November 2014

Background

The absence of coronary artery calcium (
CAC
) in middle age is associated with very low short‐term risk for coronary events. However, the long‐term implications of a
CAC
score of 0 are uncertain, particularly among individuals with high cardiovascular lifetime risk. We sought to characterize the association between predicted lifetime risk and incident
CAC
among individuals with low short‐term risk.

Methods and Results

We included 754 Dallas Heart Study participants with serial
CAC
scans (6.9 years apart) and both low short‐term risk and baseline
CAC
=0. Lifetime risk for cardiovascular disease was estimated according to risk factor burden. Among this group, 365 individuals (48.4%) were at low lifetime risk and 389 (51.6%) at high lifetime risk. High lifetime risk was associated with higher annualized
CAC
incidence (4.2% versus 2.7%;
P
 < 0.001). Similarly, mean follow‐up
CAC
scores were higher among participants with high lifetime risk (7.8 versus 2.4 Agatston units). After adjustment for age, sex, and race, high lifetime risk remained independently associated with incident
CAC
(
OR
1.60; 95%
CI
1.12 to 2.27;
P
=0.01). When assessing risk factor burden at the follow‐up visit, 66.7% of
CAC
incidence observed in the low lifetime risk group occurred among individuals reclassified to a higher short‐ or long‐term risk category.

Conclusion

Among individuals with low short‐term risk and
CAC
scores of 0, high lifetime risk is associated with a higher incidence of
CAC
. These findings highlight the importance of lifetime risk even among individuals with very low short‐term risk.
Stroke and Major Bleeding Risk in Elderly Patients Aged ≥75 Years With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Lip Gregory Y.H. , Clementy Nicolas , Pericart Lauriane , Banerjee Amitava , Fauchier Laurent
Published: November 2014

Background and Purpose—

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly prevalent in the elderly, but such patients tend to be under-represented in clinical trials. Increasing age confers a higher risk of stroke and bleeding when antithrombotic therapy is used. We examined risk factors for stroke and bleeding among elderly (age, >75 years) patients within a real world hospitalized cohort from the Loire Valley AF project.

Methods—

We identified elderly (age, >75 years) patients with AF, assessed their risk factors, and followed up for stroke, thromboembolism, death, or major bleeding. The effect of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) use on these end points was assessed.

Results—

We studied 8962 patients with AF, and we identified 4130 elderly (age, ≥75 years) patients. Using Kaplan–Meier analyses, event rates of death, stroke/thromboembolism, the composite of stroke/thromboembolism/death, and major bleeding increased with increasing age. For mortality, VKA-treated patients did better than non-VKA–treated patients. The risk of death and stroke/thromboembolism/death increased with increasing age. The risk of major bleeding did not increase with increasing age strata. VKA treatment was associated with lower mortality in those aged <75 years (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45–0.72), and the effect size was maintained with increasing age strata (
P
int
=0.67). For stroke/thromboembolism/death, VKA also has a significant benefit in those aged <75 years (adjusted HR, 0.69; [0.57–0.83]), and the effect size was maintained with increasing age strata (
P
int
=0.58). For major bleeding, there was no statistically significant difference between age strata (
P
int
=0.67). In elderly patients, age and previous stroke emerged as the main predictors of stroke and thromboembolism. Renal impairment and VKA use were predictors of major bleeding.

Conclusions—

Elderly patients with AF have a higher risk of stroke and bleeding, but the benefits of VKA therapy for stroke/thromboembolism or mortality were present regardless of increasing age.
25-Hydroxyvitamin D Status Is Associated With Chronic Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Chung Pil-Wook , Park Kwang-Yeol , Kim Jeong-Min , Shin Dong-Woo , Park Moo-Seok , Chung Yun Jae , Ha Sam-Yeol , Ahn Suk-Won , Shin Hae-Won , Kim Yong Bum , Moon Heui-Soo
Published: November 2014

Background and Purpose—

The aim of this study was to determine the association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and neuroimaging correlates of cerebral small vessel disease.

Methods—

We identified 759 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack. Lacunes, white matter hyperintensity, and cerebral microbleed (CMB) were assessed using MR images. Deep CMB was defined as the presence of CMB in basal ganglia, thalamus, or brain stem. The association between 25(OH)D and small vessel disease was tested using linear and logistic regression analyses.

Results—

Mean age was 68 (±13) years. Mean level of 25(OH)D was 34.1±17.8 nmol/L. On bivariate analysis, a 25-nmol/L decrease in 25(OH)D was associated with lacunes (regression coefficient, 0.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02–0.45), severe white matter hyperintensity (odds ratio, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.41–3.08), and deep CMB (odds ratio, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.01–1.63). Also, 25(OH)D deficiency (≤25 nmol/L) was associated with lacunes (regression coefficient, 0.5; 95% CI, 0.04–0.95), severe white matter hyperintensity (odds ratio, 2.74; 95% CI, 1.31–6.45), and deep CMB (odds ratio, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.03–2.78). The association remained significant even after multivariable adjustment and in the subgroup of previously healthy patients.

Conclusions—

25(OH)D is inversely associated with lacunes, white matter hyperintensity, and deep CMB. Our findings suggest that 25(OH)D is linked to small vessel disease, and in future trials it should be tested whether 25(OH)D supplementation can prevent small vessel disease.
Love, Lust, and Loss in the Daoist Nunnery as Presented in Yuan Drama
Authors: Zhao Xiaohuan
Published: November 2014

Most studies of either Daoist influences and features or love and romance in Yuan drama concentrate on the male-dominated theme of deliverance (dutuo) or center on the “scholar-beauty” or “scholar-courtesan” romantic relationship, with little attention given to Daoist women involved in love affairs or marriage arrangements. This article aims to bring to light life and love in the Daoist nunnery as featured in Yuan drama, by focusing on transgressive Daoist nuns longing for secular life and sensual love and on lay women whose marriages are arranged by Daoist nuns. Four zaju plays have been selected for textual and thematic analysis, namely, Yuanyang bei (The Mandarin-Duck Quilt), Wangjiang ting (The River-viewing Pavilion), Nüzhen guan (The Cloister of Female Daoists), and Zhuwu ting qin (Listening to the Zither from a Bamboo-Thicketed Cottage). 

La majorité des études consacrées, suivant les cas, aux influences et aux éléments taoïstes ou aux intrigues romantiques dans le théâtre Yuan, se concentrent soit sur le thème masculin de la délivrance (dutuo), soit sur les idylles entre “lettrés et beautés” ou “lettrés et courtisanes”. En revanche on s’est peu intéressé aux exemples de femmes taoïstes impliquées dans des relations amoureuses ou dans des négociations matrimoniales. Cet article cherche à mettre en évidence la vie et l’amour dans les couvents taoïstes tels que les donne à voir le théâtre Yuan en évoquant des nonnes poussées à transgresser les règles par leur désir de vie laïque et d’amour sensuel et des femmes laïques dont le mariage est arrangé par des nonnes. Quatre pièces de zaju ont été choisies pour une analyse textuelle et thématique : Yuanyuan bei (La couverture aux canards mandarins), Wangjiang ting (Le pavillon donnant sur le fleuve), Nüzhen guan (Le couvent taoïste) et Zhuwu ting qin (Écouter la cithare dans la chaumière).
A Need for ‘Truth’
Authors: du Toit André
Published: November 2014

The origins of the South African trc process, which made such a dramatic contribution towards opening up a new more inclusive political culture in post-apartheid South Africa, are usually found in the constitutional negotiations and settlement reflected in the Postamble of the 1993 Interim Constitution. This article starts from the apparent paradox that a secretive amnesty pact by political elites could have been responsible for a public truth process uncovering human rights violations in past political conflicts. It suggests that an alternative trc genealogy may rather be found in the public amnesty debate since mid-1992 that issued in a civil society-based proposal for a truth and reconciliation process. The ‘amnesty for truth’ compromise, conjoining the political elites’ concerns for amnesty with the human rights quest for a victim-based truth and reconciliation process, resulted in the incoherence of the actual trc process. The ambivalent legacy of the trc, shaped both by secretive elite political deals as well as by the quest for public truth in politics, still informs unresolved tensions in the Marikana Commission, and those between the Promotion of Access to Information Act and the controversial Protection of State Information Bill.
A Gold Plate in the Collection of the Museum of the Historical Treasures of the Ukraine and the Motif of the Recumbent Wild Boar in the Scythian Animal Style
Authors: Kantorovich Anatoliy R. , Gribkova Anna A.
Published: November 2014

This article is devoted to the publication and analysis of a previously unpublished artefact – a gold plate with a depiction of a recumbent wild boar held in the Museum of the Historical Treasures of the Ukraine. On the basis of a visual examination, the authors have interpreted the article as the facing of a Scythian ritual wooden vessel. On the basis of an iconographic analysis of the depiction of the wild boar, they have dated it to the 5th centurybc, possibly to its second quarter. The depiction is discussed in relation to other depictions of a wild boar in Scythian art and an attempt is made to piece together the process of how the motif of a recumbent boar appeared in the Scythian Animal Style of Eastern Europe. Together with its close parallels, the authors attribute this depiction to the “Aleksandrovka – Arkhangel’skaya Sloboda” stylistic type for the depiction of recumbent boars dated to the period from the late 6th to the early 4th centurybc. The authors also attempt to piece together the process of the appearance of the motif of the recumbent wild boar in the Scythian Animal style of Eastern Europe as the result of the convergence of the Near-Eastern motif of a recumbent wild boar and the Saka-Siberian design of a “sudden breaking” wild boar.
St. Thecla: Remembering Paul and Being Remembered Through Paul
Authors: Smit Peter-Ben
Published: November 2014

This paper interprets the Acts of Thecla, as they are part of the non-canonical Acts of Paul (and Thecla) as a piece of literature that seeks to make the Pauline heritage meaningful in a new context and a for a new kind of audience, specifically through a renewed accentuation of his apostleship and his teaching on self-control. By remembering Paul as Thecla’s mentor and subsequent colleague in the apostolic ministry, the Acts of Thecla make the Pauline ministry relevant and accessible for those whose unmasculine bodies would not otherwise have presented them as plausible, or even viable candidates for this “job.” The papers uses the notion of cultural memory to achieve its aim.
The Position of Member States in (Autonomous) Institutional Decision-Making
Authors: Barros Ana Sofia , Ryngaert Cedric
Published: November 2014

The international legal personality and autonomy of international organizations constitute the main vantage point from which responsibility issues in an institutional context are addressed in legal scholarship. In such an exercise, what is often missed is an explanation of how both concepts impact upon the understanding of the position of member States vis-à-vis the organization, and in particular the legal relevance of State participation in the activities of the latter. This paper discusses the relationship between international organizations and their members through the lens of decision-making processes. Looking beyond the veil of an organization’s decisions, it confronts institutional autonomy with the prominent role assumed by member States in the processes of the formation of institutional will, with a view to asserting the legal significance of the latter for responsibility purposes. To that end, this paper first discusses member States’ participation in international organizations, and possible responsibility as a result of such participation, by reference to wrongful conduct perpetrated by the international organization. Subsequently, it concentrates on member States’ responsibility for their own conduct performed in an institutional setting. Based on the premise that member State voting behaviour may be qualified as an act of the State, the paper goes on to show that State participation could entail legal consequences in its own right, provided that international norms binding upon the State dictate particular courses of action in an institutional context.
Corporate Raiding in Ukraine: Prevention, Defense, and Policy Reform
Authors: Rojansky Matthew A.
Published: November 2014

Corporate raiding (‘reiderstvo’) is widely recognized as a major obstacle to post-Communist economic and political modernization and—in recent years—has been more prevalent in Ukraine than in any other similarly large and advanced economy. Yet the problem is poorly understood by the business community, policymakers, and the public at large. Based on the author’s field research in Ukraine, this article examines Ukrainian and international businesses’ vulnerabilities to raider attacks, offers an overview of strategies that may prevent or preempt raids, and describes active defensive strategies that may be deployed when an attack is already under way. Finally, the article provides an assessment of relevant legal and administrative reform efforts and, also, suggests priorities for development of future policies.
The Battle for Cheburashka: Films by Jove, Inc. v. Berov and Copyright in Soviet Animated Films
Authors: Budylin Sergey
Published: November 2014

In this essay, I discuss in some detail an extraordinarily instructive US case from the early 2000s: the Soiuzmul’tfil’m controversy, formally known as Films by Jove, Inc. v. Berov. More precisely, this essay is about a series of related cases in the United States and Russia concerning the rights to Soviet animated films. In their decisions, the courts discuss—and, to some extent, resolve—a number of complex legal issues of Soviet, post-Soviet, and current Russian law, including those related to intellectual property, corporate law, and private international law.