bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peripherally restricted viral challenge elevates extracellular glutamate and enhances synaptic transmission in the hippocampus
Authors: Hunsberger Holly C. , Wang Desheng , Petrisko Tiffany J. , Alhowail Ahmad , Setti Sharay E. , Suppiramaniam Vishnu , Konat Gregory W. , Reed Miranda N.
Published: May 2016

Peripheral infections increase the propensity and severity of seizures in susceptible populations. We have previously shown that intraperitoneal injection of a viral mimic, polyinosinic‐polycytidylic acid (PIC), elicits hypersusceptibility of mice to kainic acid (KA)‐induced seizures. This study was undertaken to determine whether this seizure hypersusceptibility entails alterations in glutamate signaling. Female C57BL/6 mice were intraperitoneally injected with PIC, and after 24 h, glutamate homeostasis in the hippocampus was monitored using the enzyme‐based microelectrode arrays. PIC challenge robustly increased the level of resting extracellular glutamate. While pre‐synaptic potassium‐evoked glutamate release was not affected, glutamate uptake was profoundly impaired and non‐vesicular glutamate release was augmented, indicating functional alterations of astrocytes. Electrophysiological examination of hippocampal slices from PIC‐challenged mice revealed a several fold increase in the basal synaptic transmission as compared to control slices. PIC challenge also increased the probability of pre‐synaptic glutamate release as seen from a reduction of paired‐pulse facilitation and synaptic plasticity as seen from an enhancement of long‐term potentiation. Altogether, our results implicate a dysregulation of astrocytic glutamate metabolism and an alteration of excitatory synaptic transmission as the underlying mechanism for the development of hippocampal hyperexcitability, and consequently seizure hypersusceptibility following peripheral PIC challenge.

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Peripheral infections/inflammations enhance seizure susceptibility. Here, we explored the effect of peritoneal inflammation induced by a viral mimic on glutamate homeostasis and glutamatergic neurotransmission in the mouse hippocampus. We found that peritoneal inflammation elevated extracellular glutamate concentration and enhanced the probability of pre‐synaptic glutamate release resulting in hyperexcitability of neuronal networks. These mechanisms are likely to underlie the enhanced seizure propensity.
Reliability and Validity of Physical Fitness Field‐Based Tests in Down Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ayán Pérez Carlos , Martínez‐Lemos Iván , Lago‐Ballesteros Joaquín , Cancela Carral José Ma , Loira‐Camiña Nerea
Published: May 2016

Physical fitness is an important marker of health that can be measured by means of field‐based tests, though research about its psychometric properties when performed by people with Down syndrome is scarce. A systematic review was designed to identify the validity and reliability of the existing physical fitness field‐based tests that have been administered to individuals with Down syndrome. An evidence‐based search for peer‐reviewed studies was conducted informing about the reliability and/or validity of physical fitness field‐based tests that have been administered to individuals with Down syndrome utilizing the PubMed, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus databases throughout the period November 2014 to May 2015. Of the 15 studies selected, all provided information about reliability, but only seven included validity measurement for the field tests chosen to assess physical fitness in Down syndrome cohorts. Aerobic resistance field test assessments were the most frequent, totalling 7 studies, while 5 investigations used strength tests instead and 3 of them used balance tests. Only one study used agility as a parameter. There was a noticeable lack of studies that analyzed the reliability or validity of physical fitness field‐based tests in people with Down syndrome, especially in adult and elderly populations. The half‐mile run‐walk, hand‐held dynamometer, and the four square balance tests seem to be the most valid field‐based tests when assessing aerobic endurance, muscular strength, and balance respectively in groups of persons with Down syndrome.
HBsAg positivity during pregnancy and adverse maternal outcomes: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Tan J. , Liu X. , Mao X. , Yu J. , Chen M. , Li Y. , Sun X.
Published: May 2016

Hepatitis B virus infection characterized by HBsAg positivity during pregnancy is a well‐recognized issue in developing countries, but the association between HBsAg positivity and adverse maternal outcomes remains uncertain. To examine the association between HBsAg positivity during pregnancy and adverse maternal outcomes, a retrospective cohort study was conducted in Sichuan province, China. Deliveries were recorded from six hospitals between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2010. Pre‐eclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), intrahepatic cholestasis, Caesarean section and placenta previa were prespecified adverse maternal outcomes. We used two multivariate logistic regression models to assess the association between HBsAg positivity and adverse maternal outcomes. In total, 948 (4.2%) pregnant women were HBsAg positive from 22 374 deliveries. Pregnant women with positive HBsAg had higher risk of GDM (aOR1.41, 95%CI 1.15–1.74), PPH (1.44, 1.13–1.83), intrahepatic cholestasis (1.74, 1.40–2.16) and Caesarean section (1.24, 1.06–1.45). No statistical associations were found between HBsAg positivity and pre‐eclampsia (1.36, 0.94–1.97), and placenta previa (1.21, 0.87–1.67). HBsAg positivity during pregnancy was associated with higher risk of multiple adverse maternal outcomes. Although the causality has yet to be established, efforts may be warranted in routine care, particularly in those with high risk for adverse maternal outcomes, given the volume population infected with HBsAg. Future studies are needed to establish causality and examine the impact of HBeAg on the adverse outcomes.
Intratesticular Bradykinin Involvement in Rat Testicular Pain Models
Authors: FUJIMOTO Kenichiro , YOSHINO Taiji , YOSHIOKA Katsuro , YUYAMA Hironori , MASUDA Noriyuki , TAKEDA Masahiro
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To clarify the role of bradykinin in urogenital pain, we investigated bradykinin involvement in rat models of testicular pain.

Methods

Bradykinin (0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mmol/L) or distilled water was injected into the testes of male Wistar rats, and induced pain behaviors in conscious rats were evaluated. The effect of pretreatment with bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist FK3657 on bradykinin‐induced pain behavior was then examined. We also evaluated the analgesic effect of FK3657 in a rat acetic acid‐induced testicular pain as well as changes in the intratesticular bradykinin concentration after testicular injection of acetic acid.

Results

An injection of bradykinin into the testes of conscious rats induced pain behaviors that were dose‐proportionally reduced by prior administration of FK3657. In addition, FK3657 dose‐dependently inhibited the pain responses induced by testicular injection of 1% acetic acid. An increase in intratesticular bradykinin concentration was detected after the testicular injection of 1% acetic acid.

Conclusions

Here, we found that intratesticular bradykinin evokes pain behavior via stimulation of bradykinin B2 receptors and that intratesticular acetic acid injection induces intratesticular bradykinin synthesis, consequently leading to pain behavior. These findings suggest that the potential utility of bradykinin B2 receptor antagonists as a novel target for treating urogenital pain.
Effects of hummingbird morphology on specialization in pollination networks vary with resource availability
Authors: Tinoco Boris A. , Graham Catherine H. , Aguilar Juan M. , Schleuning Matthias
Published: May 2016

Specialization of species in interaction networks influences network stability and ecosystem functioning. Spatial and temporal variation in resource availability may provide insight into how ecological factors, such as resource abundance, and evolutionary factors, such as phylogenetically conserved morphological traits, influence specialization within mutualistic networks. We used independent measures of hummingbird abundance and resources (nectar), information on hummingbird traits and plant–hummingbird interactions to examine how resource availability and species' morphology influence the specialization of hummingbirds in three habitat types (forest, shrubs, cattle ranch) sampled over 10 sessions across two years in the southern Andes of Ecuador. Specialization of hummingbird species in the networks was measured by three indices: d' (related to niche partitioning), generality (related to niche width) and PSI (related to pollination services). Specialization indices d', generality and PSI of hummingbird species were influenced by resource availability. All indices indicated that specialization of hummingbirds increased when the availability of resources decreased. Variation in d' was also explained by an interaction between resource availability and bill length; hummingbirds with a long bill switched from being more specialized than other species when resource availability was low to being similarly specialized when availability was high. Overall, our results highlight the importance of ecological and evolutionary factors determining the specialization of species in interaction networks. We demonstrate in particular that ecological gradients in resource availability cause substantial changes in consumers' foraging behavior contingent on their morphology. Changes in pollinator specialization along resource gradients can have impacts on ecosystem functions, such as pollination by animals.
The interactive effects of photoperiod and future climate change may have negative consequences for a wide‐spread invasive insect
Authors: Yee Donald A. , Ezeakacha Nnaemeka F. , Abbott Karen C.
Published: May 2016

Increasing global temperatures may affect many ectotherms, including insects, although increasing temperatures are thought to benefit future populations through effects on adult size, fecundity, or populations. However, the way that temperature may interact with photoperiod is not well understood. We study this problem using the Asian tiger mosquitoAedes albopictus, an important worldwide invasive whose future spread is thought to be affected by changes in climate. We investigated how mass at maturity varied with temperature (21°C, 25°C) across short and long photoperiods, using laboratory populations from the extreme ends of this species’ current US range (Florida, New Jersey). These values were used to parametrize a model to predict optimal mass based on development times; the results of a second laboratory experiment under the same treatments were compared to model predictions. Warmer conditions shortened development times in females from all locations leading to either higher or lower mass depending on the photoperiod. We then used published mass–fecundity relationships to determine the consequences of mass on fecundity under our conditions. Under the majority of scenarios warming decreased predicted fecundity under long photoperiods, but proved beneficial under short photoperiods because the costs of fast development were offset by increased survival in the face of late‐season freezing risk. However, fecundity was always low under short photoperiods, so the marginal benefit of warming appears negligible given its cost under long photoperiods when the majority of reproduction occurs. Thus, with northern range expansion, where colder weather currently limits this species, detrimental effects of warming on fecundity are likely, similar to those identified for mass. Unlike previous work that has shown benefits of a warming planet to insects likeAedes albopictus, our work predicts lower performance under warming conditions in summer across the current range, a prediction with implications for range expansion, disease dynamics and populations.
Multiparameter analysis of naevi and primary melanomas identifies a subset of naevi with elevated markers of transformation
Authors: Fox Carly , Lambie Duncan , Wilmott James S. , Pinder Alex , Pavey Sandra , Lê Cao Kim‐Anh , Akalin Taner , Karaarslan Isil Kilinc , Ozdemir Fezal , Scolyer Richard A. , Yamada Miko , Soyer H Peter , Schaider Helmut , Gabrielli Brian
Published: May 2016

Here we have carried out a multiparameter analysis using a panel of 28 immunohistochemical markers to identify markers of transformation from benign and dysplastic naevus to primary melanoma in three separate cohorts totalling 279 lesions. We have identified a set of eight markers that distinguish naevi from melanoma. None of markers or parameters assessed differentiated benign from dysplastic naevi. Indeed, the naevi clustered tightly in terms of their immunostaining patterns whereas primary melanomas showed more diverse staining patterns. A small subset of histopathologically benign lesions had elevated levels of multiple markers associated with melanoma, suggesting that these represent naevi with an increased potential for transformation to melanoma.
What is Good Reasoning?
Authors: McHugh Conor , Way Jonathan
Published: May 2016

What makes the difference between good and bad reasoning? In this paper we defend a novel account of good reasoning—both theoretical and practical—according to which it preserves fittingness or correctness: good reasoning is reasoning which is such as to take you from fitting attitudes to further fitting attitudes, other things equal. This account, we argue, is preferable to two others that feature in the recent literature. The first, which has been made prominent by John Broome, holds that the standards of good reasoning derive from rational requirements. The second holds that these standards derive from reasons. We argue that these accounts face serious difficulties in correctly distinguishing good from bad reasoning, and in explaining what's worthwhile about good reasoning. We then propose our alternative account and argue that it performs better on these counts. In the final section, we develop certain elements of the account in response to some possible objections.
Livestock grazing limits beaver restoration in northern New Mexico
Authors: Small Brian A. , Frey Jennifer K. , Gard Charlotte C.
Published: May 2016

The North American beaver (Castor canadensis) builds dams that pond water on streams, which provide crucial ecological services to aquatic and riparian ecosystems and enhance biodiversity. Consequently, there is increasing interest in restoring beavers to locations where they historically occurred, particularly in the arid western United States. However, despite often intensive efforts to reintroduce beavers into areas where they were severely reduced in numbers or eliminated due to overharvesting in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, beavers remain sparse or missing from many stream reaches. Reasons for this failure have not been well studied. Our goal was to evaluate certain biotic factors that may limit the occurrence of dam‐building beavers in northern New Mexico, including competitors and availability of summer and winter forage. We compared these factors at primary active dams and at control sites located in stream reaches that were physically suitable for dam‐building beavers but where none occurred. Beaver dams mostly occurred at sites that were not grazed or where there was some alternative grazing management, but were mostly absent at sites within Forest Service cattle allotments. Results indicated that cattle grazing influenced the relation between vegetation variables and beaver presence. The availability of willows (Salix spp.) was the most important plant variable for the presence of beaver dams. We conclude that grazing by cattle as currently practiced on Forest Service allotments disrupts the beaver‐willow mutualism, rendering stream reaches unsuitable for dam‐building beavers. We recommend that beaver restoration will require changes to current livestock management practices.
Assessment of Analytical Models of Pure Bending of Sheet Materials Using the Digital Image Correlation Method
Authors: Govindasamy G. , Jain M. K.
Published: May 2016

Bending of sheet materials is a common forming mode for shaping sheet components. Although many numerical models of bending, both analytical and numerical simulations based, are available in the literature, extensive experimental validations have been rather limited. A new bend test method and complementary three‐dimensional finite element (FE) simulation of the experiments are employed to assess the predictions from an advanced analytical and FE model of pure bending of aluminium sheet materials. The experimental set‐up developed and utilised is an open concept design that allows access to the tensile surface and through‐thickness region in the vicinity of the specimen bend line to continuously record images of the deforming specimen with two cameras. The specimen images are analysed for strains using an online strain mapping system based on digital image correction method. Tangential strain distribution results from the models in terms of material thinning in the bend region are compared with those from the experiments on AA2024 aluminium sheet material by considering the responses from the specimen edges and mid‐width regions at the bend line. Furthermore, the tangential and radial stress distributions on the through‐thickness section of the specimen from the analytical model are compared with those from the FE model. The results from experiments, FE model and analytical model are compared and discussed in the light of the experimental data and the assumptions involved in the development of the models.
Percepção de justiça e comportamento de cidadania organizacional: um estudo na perspectiva do Sistema de Mensuração de Desempenho Estratégico
Authors: Beuren Ilse Maria , Stella MaAltoé Stella Maris Lima , Dal Vesco Delci Grapégia
Published: May 2016

El propósito de este estudio es investigar la relación entre la justicia organizacional y el comportamiento de la ciudadanía organizacional de los empleados desde la perspectiva del Sistema de Medición del Desempeño Estratégico. Se llevó a cabo una encuesta online teniendo como muestra 105 empleados de una cooperativa de crédito. Para probar las hipótesis replicadas de Burney, Henle e Widener (2009), se utilizó el modelo de ecuaciones estructurales. Los resultados muestran que sólo la relación entre el grado de validez técnica del sistema y la justicia distributiva no fue significativa. Así, se concluye que los resultados son similares a los de Burney, Henle y Widener (2009), y para futuras investigaciones se propone explicar la hipótesis sin confirmar.
Biochip for Single Cell Analysis Using Laser Microfabrication1
Authors: Hanada Yasutaka , Nemoto Keisuke , Ono Toshiro
Published: May 2016

We demonstrate laser microfabrication of transparent fluoric polymer using a conventional green laser. Fluoric polymers have unique characteristics such as high transparency, chemical resistance, and low refractive index and are expected to overcome many problems which conventional polymers have for biochip applications. We developed crack-free surface microfabrication of commercially available fluoric polymer commercially available fluoric polymer CYTOP (Asahi Glass Co., Ltd., Tokyo) using a conventional green laser. The laser ablation with successive wet etching by fluorine solution and annealing achieves high-quality microfluidics on the surface of the polymer substrate. In addition, we demonstrate the fabrication of a biochip with a three-dimensional fluid structure by bonding two pieces of CYTOP substrates for clear microscopic observation of swimming aquatic microorganism at the sidewall of the fluidics.
Reliability Analysis of Piles in Multilayer Soil in Mooring Dolphin Structures
Authors: Farag Reda , Haldar Achintya , El-Meligy Mahmoud
Published: May 2016

Reliability of complicated mooring dolphin structures (MDS) is estimated using few deterministic evaluations and an improved response surface method denoted as IRSM-second-order reliability method (SORM). It is a hybrid approach consisting of an IRSM, SORM, and several advanced factorial schemes. For this type of sophisticated analysis, simulation-based algorithm is impractical to implement. The concept is applied to estimate the risk of an existing MDS at the shore of Nile Delta. It is a large diameter steel-pile embedded in the sea bed. The Pile–Soil-System is represented by a nonlinear finite element model (NLFEM). In NLFEM, the steel pile is assumed to behave linearly under the considered working loads, but the soil is considered to behave nonlinearly. Moreover, the contact nonlinearity between the pile and the soil is taken into account. It is demonstrated that the reliability information on MDS can be extracted using tens of deterministic evaluations. It has been found that incorporation of the contact nonlinearity into analysis has no effect on the pile behavior. In the probabilistic analysis, the uncertainties in loading, material properties, and geometric details are taken into account. Both operational and structural limit states are considered. For the MDS considered in this study, it has been observed that the strength limit state (flexural) is more critical than the operational limit state (drift). The most important variables are the mooring loads, the radius and thickness of the pile, and the modulus of elasticity of steel.
Optimization of Co-Firing Burners
Authors: Valliappan Palaniappan , Wilcox Steve , Jagiełło Krzystof , Shao Yimin
Published: May 2016

At present, unless a boiler is especially designed to burn biomass, the levels of co-firing are generally limited to around 5% by mass. Higher levels of substitution sometimes lead to burner instability and other issues. In order to co-fire higher concentrations of biomass, a technique is required which can monitor flame stability at the burner level and optimize the combustion to ensure that local NOx is maintained below set limits. This paper presents an investigation of a system that monitored the combustion flame using photodiodes with responses in the ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR), and visible (VIS) bands. The collected data were then processed using the Wigner–Ville joint time–frequency method and subsequently classified using a self-organizing map (SOM). It was found that it was possible to relate the classification of the sensor data to operational parameters, such as the burner airflow rate and NOx emissions. The developed system was successfully tested at pilot scale (500 kWt), where the ability of the system to optimize the combustion for a variety of unseen coal/biomass blends was demonstrated.
Comparison of Compliance and Intervention Outcomes Between Hip- and Wrist-Worn Accelerometers During a Randomized Crossover Trial of an Active Video Games Intervention in Children
Authors: Howie Erin K. , McVeigh Joanne A. , Straker Leon M.
Published: May 2016

Background:

There are several practical issues when considering the use of hip-worn or wrist-worn accelerometers. This study compared compliance and outcomes between hip- and wrist-worn accelerometers worn simultaneously by children during an active video games intervention.

Methods:

As part of a larger randomized crossover trial, participants (n = 73, age 10 to 12 years) wore 2 Actical accelerometers simultaneously during waking hours for 7 days, on the hip and wrist. Measurements were repeated at 4 timepoints: 1) at baseline, 2) during traditional video games condition, 3) during active video games condition, 4) during no video games condition. Compliance and intervention effects were compared between hip and wrist.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences at any timepoint in percentage compliance between hip (77% to 87%) and wrist (79% to 89%). Wrist-measured counts (difference of 64.3 counts per minute, 95% CI 4.4–124.3) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (12 min/day, 95% CI 0.3–23.7) were higher during the no video games condition compared with the traditional video games condition. There were no differences in hip-measured counts per minute or MVPA between conditions or sedentary time for hip or wrist.

Conclusions:

There were no differences in compliance between hip- and wrist-worn accelerometers during an intervention trial, however, intervention findings differed between hip and wrist.
Physical Activity Levels Among Adults in Uganda: Findings From a Countrywide Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Guwatudde David , Kirunda Barbara E. , Wesonga Ronald , Mutungi Gerald , Kajjura Richard , Kasule Hafisa , Muwonge James , Bahendeka Silver K.
Published: May 2016

Background:

Being physically active is associated with lower risk of many noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). We analyzed physical activity (PA) data collected as part of Uganda’s countrywide NCD risk factor survey conducted in 2014, to describe PA levels in Uganda.

Methods:

PA data were collected on the domains of work, travel and leisure. We calculated the percentage of participants meeting the World Health Organization (WHO) PA recommendations, and the types of intense-specific duration of PA. Prevalence ratios (PR) were used to identify factors associated with meeting WHO PA recommendations.

Results:

Of the 3987 participants, 3758 (94.3%) met the WHO PA recommendations. Work-related PA of moderate intensity, and travel-related PA contributed most to participants’ overall weekly duration of PA, each contributing 49.6% and 25.2% respectively. The median weekly duration of all moderate-intensity PA was 1470 minutes (interquartile range [IQR] = 540 to 2460). Weekly duration of all vigorous-intensity PA was low with a median of 0 minutes (IQR = 0 to 1080). The median daily sedentary time was 120 minutes (IQR = 60 to 240). Factors significantly associated with meeting WHO PA recommendations were body mass index and level of education.

Conclusions:

PA levels in Uganda are high, mostly achieved through travel and work-related activities of moderate intensity.
Metabolic dysfunction branches out
Authors: Rayner Katey J.
Published: May 2016

Amino acid metabolism is an important driver of heart failure and can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic targeting in the failing heart.
Evaluation to Improve a High School Summer Science Outreach Program
Authors: Chiappinelli Katherine B. , Moss Britney L. , Lenz Devjanee Swain , Tonge Natasha A. , Joyce Adam , Holt Glen E. , Holt Leslie Edmonds , Woolsey Thomas A.
Published: May 2016

The goal of the Young Scientist Program (YSP) at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis (WUSM) is to broaden science literacy and recruit talent for the scientific future. In particular, YSP seeks to expose underrepresented minority high school students from St. Louis public schools (SLPS) to a wide variety of careers in the sciences. The centerpiece of YSP, the Summer Focus Program (SFP), is a nine-week, intensive research experience for competitively chosen rising high school seniors (Scholars). Scholars are paired with volunteer graduate student, medical student, or postdoctoral fellow mentors who are active members of the practicing scientific community and serve as guides and exemplars of scientific careers. The SFP seeks to increase the number of underrepresented minority students pursuing STEM undergraduate degrees by making the Scholars more comfortable with science and science literacy. The data presented here provide results of the objective, quick, and simple methods developed by YSP to assess the efficacy of the SFP from 2006 to 2013. We demonstrate that the SFP successfully used formative evaluation to continuously improve the various activities within the SFP over the course of several years and in turn enhance student experiences within the SFP. Additionally we show that the SFP effectively broadened confidence in science literacy among participating high school students and successfully graduated a high percentage of students who went on to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors at the undergraduate level.
Ebola Virus’ Zoonotic Roots and Horrific PathA Review of:
Ebola: The Natural and Human History of a Deadly Virus
; David Quammen; (2014). W.W. Norton & Company, NY, NY. 119 pages.
Authors: Govindan Brinda
Published: May 2016

Review of: Ebola: The Natural and Human History of a Deadly Virus; David Quammen; (2014). W.W. Norton & Company, NY, NY. 119 pages.
Microbe Motels: An Interactive Method to Introduce the Human Microbiome
Authors: Robertson-Albertyn Senga , Hardee Erin , Stanley-Wall Nicola R.
Published: May 2016

The human body is occupied by an immense number of microorganisms collectively referred to as the “human microbiota.” This hands-on activity introduces the intestinal microbiota in a fun and engaging way.
Classroom Activities to Engage Students and Promote Critical Thinking about Genetic Regulation of Bacterial Quorum Sensing
Authors: Aebli Kimberly , Hutchison Elizabeth
Published: May 2016

We developed an interactive activity to mimic bacterial quorum sensing, and a classroom worksheet to promote critical thinking about genetic regulation of the lux operon. The interactive quorum sensing activity engages students and provides a direct visualization of how population density functions to influence light production in bacteria. The worksheet activity consists of practice problems that require students to apply basic knowledge of the lux operon in order to make predictions about genetic complementation experiments, and students must evaluate how genetic mutations in the lux operon affect gene expression and overall phenotype. The worksheet promotes critical thinking and problem solving skills, and emphasizes the roles of diffusible signaling molecules, regulatory proteins, and structural proteins in quorum sensing.
Role-Playing in a Vaccination Debate Strengthens Student Scientific Debate Skills for Various Audiences
Authors: Souza Gianne , Mixter Philip F.
Published: May 2016

Students are surrounded by strongly-held viewpoints on scientific topics and frequently discuss news reports with their classmates. We developed the vaccination debate exercise to leverage this interest and develop core higher-order cognitive skills (HOCS), including, but not limited to, the ability to critique public media or primary research sources and create arguments for defending multiple viewpoints. Students prepared to debate different sides of the topic and then randomly assumed one of the roles: “Physician” (pro-vaccine), “Activist” (anti-vaccination), or “Parent-on-the-fence” (undecided). Students reported an increase in their abilities to discuss scientific topics with diverse audiences and an increased awareness of importance of examining Internet sources for credibility.
W-V flap: a new technique for reconstruction of female distal urethral stricture using vestibular mucosa
Authors: Dalela Diwakar , Gupta Piyush , Dalela Disha , Govil Tuhina
Published: May 2016

A premenopausal woman having a totally occlusive distal urethral stricture, with suprapubic catheter (SPC) in situ, was referred to us for a definitive procedure. On discussion of the treatment options, the patient refused for a buccal or vaginal flap procedure. Thus, a local W-V flap was fashioned from the periurethral vestibular mucosa with seemingly excellent results, both in terms of resolution of her symptoms and a forwardly directed stream of urine without incontinence.
An observational study of type, timing, and severity of childhood maltreatment and preterm birth
Authors: Selk Sabrina C , Rich-Edwards Janet W , Koenen Karestan , Kubzansky Laura D
Published: May 2016

Background

Childhood maltreatment has been linked to preterm birth (<37 weeks gestation) in some studies, but these findings have been inconsistent, and it remains unclear whether type, timing or severity of maltreatment are associated with risk of preterm birth. The aim of this observational study was to explore type of maltreatment (child and adolescent physical and sexual abuse and harsh parenting) as risk factors for preterm birth.

Methods

We examined these associations in a cross-sectional analysis of the Nurses’ Health Study II cohort of female nurses. Women completed a questionnaire about experiences of sexual abuse, physical abuse or harsh parenting, along with pregnancy outcomes. Logistic regression models adjusted for relevant covariates including age, race, alcohol and cigarette use during pregnancy, age at menarche, marital status, adult income, body mass index (kg/m2) at age 18, physical abuse in pregnancy, and childhood socioeconomic position.

Results

Among 51 434 first births, 4110 were preterm (8% of births). Forced sexual activity in childhood or adolescence was associated with a 22% increased odds of preterm birth (OR=1.22, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.35). Maltreatment involving sexual touch, physical abuse or harsh parenting was not associated with preterm birth in this sample.

Conclusions

Women who experience forced sexual activity in childhood or adolescence may have an increased likelihood of delivering preterm in adulthood.
Testing the suitability of thermal time models for forecasting spring wheat phenological development in western Canada
Authors: Mkhabela Manasah , Ash Guy , Grenier Mike , Bullock Paul
Published: May 2016

Predicting crop development stages is fundamental to many aspects of agronomy (e.g., pesticides and fertilizer applications). Temperature is the main factor affecting plant development and its impact on crop development is often measured using thermal-time. We compared different thermal-time models to identify the best model for simulating spring wheat development in western Canada. Models compared include (i) North-Dakota growing-degree-day (NDGDD), (ii) growing-degree-day base-temperature zero (GDD0), (iii) growing-degree-day base-temperature five (GDD5), (iv) beta-function (BF), and (v) modified-beta-function (MBF). We utilised agro-meteorological data collected across western Canada from 2009–2011. Results showed that accumulated heat units/daily growth rates from the different models correlated well with spring wheat phenology with R2 ≥ 0.91 and P < 0.001. However, when the developed models were used to predict time (calendar-days) from planting to anthesis for cultivar AC-Barrie, the BF and MBF models performed poorly. Average predicted times from planting to anthesis by NDGDD, GDD0, GDD5, BF, and MBF models were 63, 63, 62, 65, and 64 d, respectively; while the actual observed time was 60 d. Root-mean-square error (RMSE) for NDGDD was 4 d, 5 d for GDD0 and GDD5, and 6 d for BF and MBF. These findings suggest that simple GDD-based models performed better than more complex BF-based models.
Structure and expression analysis of genes encoding ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase large subunit in wheat and its relatives
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Wei , Li Si-Yu , Zhang Ling-Ling , Yang Qiang , Jiang Qian-Tao , Ma Jian , Qi Peng-Fei , Li Wei , Chen Guo-Yue , Lan Xiu-Jin , Deng Mei , Lu Zhen-Xiang , Liu Chunji , Wei Yu-Ming , Zheng You-Liang
Published: May 2016

ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGP), which consists of two large subunits (AGP-L) and two small subunits (AGP-S), controls the rate-limiting step in the starch biosynthetic pathway. In this study, a full-length open reading frame (ORF) of AGP-L gene (named as Agp2) in wheat and a series of Agp2 gene sequences in wheat relatives were isolated. The coding region of Agp2 contained 15 exons and 14 introns including a full-length ORF of 1566 nucleotides, and the deduced protein contained 522 amino acids (57.8 kDa). Generally, the phylogenetic tree of Agp2 indicated that sequences from A- and D-genome donor species were most similar to each other and sequences from B-genome donor species contained more variation. Starch accumulation and Agp2 expression in wheat grains reached their peak at 21 and 15 days post anthesis (DPA), respectively.
Holographic superconductors with the general RF2-type couplings
Authors: Sert Özcan
Published: May 2016

We explore the effects of the general non-minimally coupled [Formula: see text]-type couplings on the holographic s-wave superconductors numerically in the Schwarzschild-anti-de Sitter (AdS) background. We calculate the condensation and conductivity of the model for the coupling parameters a1 and [Formula: see text]. We obtain that the bigger deviations of the parameter a1 from the minimal case lead to the larger deviations of the gap frequency from the universal value [Formula: see text]. Moreover, the smaller [Formula: see text] and a1 cause to gradually stronger and narrower coherence peak.
Morphological characteristics and optical properties of hydrogenated amorphous silicon thin films
Authors: Tang Haihua , Liu Shuang , Zhou Xiang , Liu Yunfei , Chen Dejun , Liu Yong , Zhong Zhiyong
Published: May 2016

Hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) thin films were prepared by radio frequency (RF) plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (RF-PECVD) technique with silane (SiH[Formula: see text] as reactive gas. The influence of process parameters on the morphological characteristics and optical properties of a-Si:H thin films were systematically investigated. When the RF power density was taken as the only variable, it firstly improves the smoothness of the surface with increasing the RF power density below the value of 0.17 W/cm2, and then exhibits an obvious degradation at further power density. The refractive index, extinction coefficient, optical energy gap initially increase and reach a maximum at 0.17 W/cm2, followed by a significant decrease with further RF power density. When the RF power density was taken as the only variable, the surface of a-Si:H thin films become smoother by increasing the reaction pressure in the investigated range (from 50 Pa to 140 Pa), and the refractive index, extinction coefficient, optical energy gap increase with increasing of reaction pressure. The effect of RF power density and the reaction pressure on the morphological characteristics and optical properties of a-Si:H thin films was obtained, contributing to the further studies of the performance and applications of a-Si:H thin films.
Effects of Self-Stress Distributions on Stability of Tensegrity Structures
Authors: Shekastehband B. , Pourmand N.
Published: May 2016

Tensegrity systems are composed of any given set of cables connected to a set of struts in which the cables connectivity must be able to stabilize the configuration. Self-stresses contribute to the rigidity and stability of the system. Therefore, self-stress distribution has a dominant effect on the stability behavior of these systems. In this study, the stability behavior of plane double-layer tensegrity systems considering different distributions of self-stresses is evaluated. Based on the results obtained, collapse mechanisms, load carrying capacities, stiffness of the systems and slackening of the cables are affected by self-stress distribution. Therefore, self-stress design is a key factor that plays a dominant role on the stability behavior of tensegrity systems. These results can lead to the suggestion of some guidelines on the selection of self-stress distribution for the design of tensegrity systems against instability.
Multipartite cellular automata and the superposition principle
Authors: Elze Hans-Thomas
Published: May 2016

Cellular automata (CA) can show well known features of quantum mechanics (QM), such as a linear updating rule that resembles a discretized form of the Schrödinger equation together with its conservation laws. Surprisingly, a whole class of “natural” Hamiltonian CA, which are based entirely on integer-valued variables and couplings and derived from an action principle, can be mapped reversibly to continuum models with the help of sampling theory. This results in “deformed” quantum mechanical models with a finite discreteness scale l, which for [Formula: see text] reproduce the familiar continuum limit. Presently, we show, in particular, how such automata can form “multipartite” systems consistently with the tensor product structures of non-relativistic many-body QM, while maintaining the linearity of dynamics. Consequently, the superposition principle is fully operative already on the level of these primordial discrete deterministic automata, including the essential quantum effects of interference and entanglement.
Knowledge Practices for an Emerging Innovation Ecosystem
Authors: Spena Tiziana Russo , Trequa Marco , Bifulco Francesco
Published: May 2016

Knowledge and learning mechanisms are investigated in a multiple and inter-related context depicted by the definition of an innovation ecosystem [Lusch and Nambisan (2015)]; by questioning knowledge, the paper opens up practice-based learning studies [Gherardi (2000)]. Action research offered the opportunity to focus on knowledge and learning mechanisms in an emerging innovation ecosystem linked to a project supported by the Italian Ministry of Research. The paper identifies three different knowledge practices — connecting knowledge dots, integrating knowledge, and authoring and disseminating knowledge — to describe learning and knowledge mechanisms in a networking innovation context, leading to an innovation ecosystem.
How One Thing Led to Another
Authors: Weissman Irving
Published: May 2016

I started research in high school, experimenting on immunological tolerance to transplantation antigens. This led to studies of the thymus as the site of maturation of T cells, which led to the discovery, isolation, and clinical transplantation of purified hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). The induction of immune tolerance with HSCs has led to isolation of other tissue-specific stem cells for regenerative medicine. Our studies of circulating competing germline stem cells in colonial protochordates led us to document competing HSCs. In human acute myelogenous leukemia we showed that all preleukemic mutations occur in HSCs, and determined their order; the final mutations occur in a multipotent progenitor derived from the preleukemic HSC clone. With these, we discovered that CD47 is an upregulated gene in all human cancers and is a “don't eat me” signal; blocking it with antibodies leads to cancer cell phagocytosis. CD47 is the first known gene common to all cancers and is a target for cancer immunotherapy.
Protein Kinase C Enzymes in the Hematopoietic and Immune Systems
Authors: Altman Amnon , Kong Kok-Fai
Published: May 2016

The protein kinase C (PKC) family, discovered in the late 1970s, is composed of at least 10 serine/threonine kinases, divided into three groups based on their molecular architecture and cofactor requirements. PKC enzymes have been conserved throughout evolution and are expressed in virtually all cell types; they represent critical signal transducers regulating cell activation, differentiation, proliferation, death, and effector functions. PKC family members play important roles in a diverse array of hematopoietic and immune responses. This review covers the discovery and history of this enzyme family, discusses the roles of PKC enzymes in the development and effector functions of major hematopoietic and immune cell types, and points out gaps in our knowledge, which should ignite interest and further exploration, ultimately leading to better understanding of this enzyme family and, above all, its role in the many facets of the immune system.
Race as a Bundle of Sticks: Designs that Estimate Effects of Seemingly Immutable Characteristics
Authors: Sen Maya , Wasow Omar
Published: May 2016

Although understanding the role of race, ethnicity, and identity is central to political science, methodological debates persist about whether it is possible to estimate the effect of something immutable. At the heart of the debate is an older theoretical question: Is race best understood under an essentialist or constructivist framework? In contrast to the “immutable characteristics” or essentialist approach, we argue that race should be operationalized as a “bundle of sticks” that can be disaggregated into elements. With elements of race, causal claims may be possible using two designs: (a) studies that measure the effect of exposure to a racial cue and (b) studies that exploit within-group variation to measure the effect of some manipulable element. These designs can reconcile scholarship on race and causation and offer a clear framework for future research.
Re-imagining the Cambridge School in the Age of Digital Humanities
Authors: London Jennifer A.
Published: May 2016

Recent work on the history of political thought, exploiting digital resources, is challenging the idea that empirically and hermeneutically minded political scientists must work independently in silos. Work by students of the Cambridge School and work by textual data miners are showing the way toward a new hermeneutical circle—one in which empirically and hermeneutically minded political scientists can use digital resources to analyze diverse texts and make groundbreaking discoveries on relationships between textual uses of language and political change. I analyze this new trend toward different sorts of political scientists using digital resources to study ideas, to outline underlying paradigms relating language and politics in these respective fields, and to consider how they could be brought into productive conversation. I then consider how such conversation would enrich subdisciplinary understandings of the role of language in politics. Ultimately, I use this analysis to generate a broader model for how empirically and hermeneutically inclined political scientists can benefit from collaboration in the age of digital humanities.
Neuroinflammatory and autonomic mechanisms in diabetes and hypertension
Authors: Han Cheng , Rice Matthew W. , Cai Dongsheng
Published: May 2016

Interdisciplinary studies in the research fields of endocrinology and immunology show that obesity-associated overnutrition leads to neuroinflammatory molecular changes, in particular in the hypothalamus, chronically causing various disorders known as elements of metabolic syndrome. In this process, neural or hypothalamic inflammation impairs the neuroendocrine and autonomic regulation of the brain over blood pressure and glucose homeostasis as well as insulin secretion, and elevated sympathetic activation has been appreciated as a critical mediator. This review describes the involved physiology and mechanisms, with a focus on glucose and blood pressure balance, and suggests that neuroinflammation employs the autonomic nervous system to mediate the development of diabetes and hypertension.
Characterizing active and inactive brown adipose tissue in adult humans using PET-CT and MR imaging
Authors: Gifford Aliya , Towse Theodore F. , Walker Ronald C. , Avison Malcolm J. , Welch E. Brian
Published: May 2016

Activated brown adipose tissue (BAT) plays an important role in thermogenesis and whole body metabolism in mammals. Positron emission tomography (PET)-computed tomography (CT) imaging has identified depots of BAT in adult humans, igniting scientific interest. The purpose of this study is to characterize both active and inactive supraclavicular BAT in adults and compare the values to those of subcutaneous white adipose tissue (WAT). We obtained [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) PET-CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of 25 healthy adults. Unlike [18F]FDG PET, which can detect only active BAT, MRI is capable of detecting both active and inactive BAT. The MRI-derived fat signal fraction (FSF) of active BAT was significantly lower than that of inactive BAT (means ± SD; 60.2 ± 7.6 vs. 62.4 ± 6.8%, respectively). This change in tissue morphology was also reflected as a significant increase in Hounsfield units (HU; −69.4 ± 11.5 vs. −74.5 ± 9.7 HU, respectively). Additionally, the CT HU, MRI FSF, and MRI R2* values are significantly different between BAT and WAT, regardless of the activation status of BAT. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to quantify PET-CT and MRI FSF measurements and utilize a semiautomated algorithm to identify inactive and active BAT in the same adult subjects. Our findings support the use of these metrics to characterize and distinguish between BAT and WAT and lay the foundation for future MRI analysis with the hope that some day MRI-based delineation of BAT can stand on its own.