bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Using the Omaha System for Community‐level Observations
Authors: Kerr Madeleine J. , Flaten Carol , Honey Michelle L. L. , Gargantua‐Aguila Sebastiana del Rosario , Nahcivan Nursen O. , Martin Karen S. , Monsen Karen A.
Published: October 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of using a standardized language, the Omaha System, to capture community‐level observations to facilitate population assessment and electronic information exchange. The objectives were: (1) to evaluate the feasibility of using the Omaha System at the community level to reflect community observations and (2) to describe preliminary results of community observations across international settings.

Design and Sample

Descriptive. A dataset of 284 windshield surveys (community observations) completed by nursing students in five countries: Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Turkey, and the United States.

Measures

The Omaha System Problem Classification Scheme provided standardized terms for assessment of communities in an online checklist of 11 problems and their respective signs/symptoms.

Results

Feasibility was demonstrated: students were able to describe community observations using standardized terminology from the Omaha System. Preliminary results describe variations in community signs and symptoms by location.

Conclusions

The Omaha System appears to be a useful tool for community‐level observations and a promising strategy for electronic exchange of population health assessments.
Measuring Sixth‐Grade Students' Problem Solving: Validating an Instrument Addressing the Mathematics Common Core
Authors: Bostic Jonathan David , Sondergeld Toni A.
Published: October 2015

This article describes the development of a problem‐solving instrument intended for classroom use that addresses the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. In this study, 137 students completed the assessment, and their responses were analyzed. Evidence for validity was collected and examined using the current standards for educational and psychological testing. Instrument validation findings regarding internal consistency reliability were high, and multiple forms of validity (i.e., content, response processes, internal structure, relationship to other variables, and consequences of testing) were found to be appropriate. The resulting instrument provides teachers and researchers with a sound tool to gather data about sixth‐grade students' problem solving in the Common Core era.
A New Procedure for Mode I Fracture Characterization of Cement‐Based Materials
Authors: Dourado N. , de Moura M. F. S. F. , Xavier J. , Pereira F. A. M.
Published: October 2015

Fracture characterization under mode I loading of a cement‐based material using the single‐edge‐notched beam loaded in tree‐point‐bending was performed. A new method based on beam theory and crack equivalent concept is proposed to evaluate the Resistance‐curve, which is essential to determine fracture toughness with accuracy. The method considers the existence of a stress relief region in the vicinity of the crack, dispensing crack length monitoring during experiments. A numerical validation was performed by finite element analysis considering a bilinear cohesive damage model. Experimental tests were performed in order to validate the numerical procedure. Digital image correlation technique was used to measure the specimen displacement with accuracy and without interference. Excellent agreement between numerical and experimental load–displacement curves was obtained, which validates the procedure.
Fatigue Life Behaviour of Spot Friction Welded Al 5083‐O in Single Cover Butt Joints
Authors: Mohammadpour M. , Hassanifard S. , Hashemi Oskouei R.
Published: October 2015

In this study, the fatigue behaviour of spot friction welded joints of Al 5083‐O was investigated using experimental and numerical approaches. In the experimental part, a single cover butt joint of aluminium sheets with a thickness of 2 mm was fatigue tested under constant amplitude cyclic loadings. The sheets were connected using a spot friction welding technique with constant welding parameters of tool rotational speed, holding time, travelling speed, and shoulder plunge depth. Fatigue cracks were initiated in the vicinity of the weld notch and then propagated along the circumference of the weld's nugget. In the numerical part, a three‐dimensional finite element model was developed to determine stress and strain distributions in the spot friction welded joint and to predict the fatigue life using three approaches of Morrow, modified Morrow, and Smith–Watson–Topper. The results showed a good agreement between the fatigue life predictions and experimental data.
Thromboelastographic Clot Characteristics of Autologous Equine Blood Products After Activation by Autologous Thrombin, Bovine Thrombin, or Calcium Chloride
Authors: Ghassab Sasan , Dulin Jennifer , Bertone Alicia L.
Published: October 2015

Objective

To compare clotting efficiency of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and concentrated platelet‐poor plasma (cPPP) to citrated whole blood after activation by autologous thrombin, bovine thrombin, or calcium chloride (CaCl2).

Study Design

Experimental study.

Animals

Healthy adult horses (n = 6).

Methods

PRP and cPPP were prepared by commercial devices. Using thromboelastography, clotting variables were compared after activation of citrated autologous blood, PRP, and cPPP by autologous thrombin, bovine thrombin, or CaCl2, respectively.

Results

PRP had the greatest clot strength and quickest clot rate, whereas cPPP had the weakest clot strength, slowest clot rate, and longest clot initiation time. Bovine thrombin resulted in the shortest clot initiation time, quickest clot rate, and was similar to CaCl2 for greatest clot strength. CaCl2 also resulted in the longest clot initiation time and time to reach maximum clot strength. Autologous thrombin resulted in the lowest clot strength.

Conclusion

When combined with either bovine thrombin or CaCl2, PRP provided the best combinations for clinical use. Autologous thrombin was suboptimal, but could be an autologous alternative for clinical application. As prepared here, cPPP had inefficient clotting, but may be sufficient for plasma spray indications.
Beetroot juice supplementation reduces whole body oxygen consumption but does not improve indices of mitochondrial efficiency in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Whitfield J. , Ludzki A. , Heigenhauser G. J. F. , Senden J. M. G. , Verdijk L. B. , van Loon L. J. C. , Spriet L. L. , Holloway G. P.
Published: October 2015

Key points

Oral consumption of nitrate (NO3−) in beetroot juice has been shown to decrease the oxygen cost of submaximal exercise; however, the mechanism of action remains unresolved.

We supplemented recreationally active males with beetroot juice to determine if this altered mitochondrial bioenergetics.

Despite reduced submaximal exercise oxygen consumption, measures of mitochondrial coupling and respiratory efficiency were not altered in muscle.

In contrast, rates of mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) emission were increased in the absence of markers of lipid or protein oxidative damage.

These results suggest that improvements in mitochondrial oxidative metabolism are not the cause of beetroot juice‐mediated improvements in whole body oxygen consumption.

Ingestion of sodium nitrate (NO3−) simultaneously reduces whole body oxygen consumption () during submaximal exercise while improving mitochondrial efficiency, suggesting a causal link. Consumption of beetroot juice (BRJ) elicits similar decreases in but potential effects on the mitochondria remain unknown. Therefore we examined the effects of 7‐day supplementation with BRJ (280 ml day−1, ∼26 mmol NO3−) in young active males (n = 10) who had muscle biopsies taken before and after supplementation for assessments of mitochondrial bioenergetics. Subjects performed 20 min of cycling (10 min at 50% and 70% ) 48 h before ‘Pre’ (baseline) and ‘Post’ (day 5 of supplementation) biopsies. Whole body decreased (P < 0.05) by ∼3% at 70% following supplementation. Mitochondrial respiration in permeabilized muscle fibres showed no change in leak respiration, the content of proteins associated with uncoupling (UCP3, ANT1, ANT2), maximal substrate‐supported respiration, or ADP sensitivity (apparent Km). In addition, isolated subsarcolemmal and intermyofibrillar mitochondria showed unaltered assessments of mitochondrial efficiency, including ADP consumed/oxygen consumed (P/O ratio), respiratory control ratios and membrane potential determined fluorometrically using Safranine‐O. In contrast, rates of mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) emission were increased following BRJ. Therefore, in contrast to sodium nitrate, BRJ supplementation does not alter key parameters of mitochondrial efficiency. This occurred despite a decrease in exercise , suggesting that the ergogenic effects of BRJ ingestion are not due to a change in mitochondrial coupling or efficiency. It remains to be determined if increased mitochondrial H2O2 contributes to this response.
Modulation of cationicity of chitosan for tuning mesenchymal stem cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation
Authors: He Jing , Wu Fang , Wang Dong , Yao Ruijuan , Wu Yao , Wu Fang
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to modulate the cationicity of chitosan to influence the mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) responses in terms of cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. The authors prepared water-soluble carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogels using genipin as the crosslinking agent. The chitosan cationicity was modulated by varying the genipin content from 0.5 to 10 wt. %. The results indicated that the cationicity exerted a striking modulation effect on various MSC responses. The increase of the genipin content, i.e., decrease of the free amino group content (cationicity), overall promoted the MSC adhesion, cytoskeleton organization, proliferation, and differentiation into the osteogenic lineage. A surprising cell alignment effect was also observed on chitosan samples with high genipin concentrations (>2.5%). The chitosan sample with the highest genipin concentrations (10%) exhibited the best MSC proliferation and highest protein expression levels toward osteogenic lineages. The genipin content also showed a strong modulation effect on MSC condensation, and cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions, as suggested by the expressions of the sry related HMG box9 (Sox9), intercellular adhesion molecule 1, and N-Cadherin. Overall, the authors have demonstrated that modulation of cationicity (amino content) of chitosan is an effective and simple approach to tuning various MSC responses, including adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, as well as cell–cell interactions. Such findings might have important implications in biomaterial design for various biomedical applications.
Metallic ground state in an ion-gated two-dimensional superconductor
Authors: Saito Yu , Kasahara Yuichi , Ye Jianting , Iwasa Yoshihiro , Nojima Tsutomu
Published: October 2015

A 3D approach to make 2D superconductors

When the thickness of a superconducting film becomes comparable to the typical size of its electron pairs, its superconductivity enters a two-dimensional (2D) regime. Thinner films usually have higher amounts of disorder, making it difficult to isolate the 2D effects. To circumvent this limitation, Saito
et al.
induced charge carriers on the surface of the 3D insulator ZrNCl. This approach produced a clean superconducting layer thinner than the unit cell of the crystal. The superconducting state was extremely sensitive to the application of a perpendicular magnetic field, as expected for clean systems.

Science
, this issue p.
409
Draft Genome Sequences of 17 French Clostridium botulinum Group III Strains
Authors: Woudstra Cédric , Le Maréchal Caroline , Souillard Rozenn , Bayon-Auboyer Marie-Hélène , Mermoud Isabelle , Desoutter Denise , Fach Patrick
Published: October 2015

Animal botulism is mainly associated with
Clostridium botulinum
group III strains producing neurotoxin types C, C/D, D, and D/C. In this report, we present the draft genome sequences of fourteen strains of
Clostridium botulinum
producing type C/D and two strains producing type D/C isolated in France, and one strain producing type D/C that originated from New Caledonia.
Complete Genome Sequence of Noncytopathic Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus 1 Contaminating a High-Passage RK-13 Cell Line
Authors: Nam Bora , Li Ganwu , Zheng Ying , Zhang Jianqiang , Shuck Kathleen M. , Timoney Peter J. , Balasuriya Udeni B. R.
Published: October 2015

A high-passage rabbit kidney RK-13 cell line (HP-RK-13[KY], originally derived from the ATCC CCL-37 cell line) used in certain laboratories worldwide is contaminated with noncytopathic bovine viral diarrhea virus (ncpBVDV). On complete genome sequence analysis, the virus strain was found to belong to BVDV group 1b.
Genome Sequence of Antibiotic-Producing Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Strain KCTC 13012
Authors: Jeong Haeyoung , Park Seung-Hwan , Choi Soo-Keun
Published: October 2015

We report the 4.0-Mb draft genome sequence of
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens
(syn.
Bacillus velezensis
) KCTC 13012, which exhibits a broad spectrum of antagonistic activity against bacteria and fungi and promotes plant growth as well. The genome contains an array of biosynthetic gene clusters for secondary metabolites that are comparable to those in
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens
subsp.
plantarum
FZB42
T
.
Complete Genome Sequence of Rothia mucilaginosa Strain NUM-Rm6536, Isolated from a Human Oral Cavity
Authors: Nambu Takayuki , Tsuzukibashi Osamu , Uchibori Satoshi , Mashimo Chiho
Published: October 2015

Here, we present the complete genome sequence of
Rothia mucilaginosa
NUM-Rm6536, a strain isolated from the tongue plaque of a healthy human adult. This strain is amenable to genetic manipulation by transformation and so provides a useful foundation for more detailed investigation of this species.
Complete Genome Sequence of Caulobacter crescentus Siphophage Seuss
Authors: Sloan Jordan M. , Keene Jennifer L. , Cahill Jesse L. , Rasche Eric S. , Kuty Everett Gabriel F.
Published: October 2015

Caulobacter crescentus
is a water-dwelling bacterium known to have a dimorphic life cycle. Here, we announce the complete genome of Seuss, a
C. crescentus
icosahedral siphophage, and describe key features. Seuss is unique among phages deposited in GenBank, with genes encoding novel hypothetical proteins composing 45% of its genome.
Complete Genome Sequence of Citrobacter freundii Myophage Merlin
Authors: LeSage Kayla C. , Hargrove Emily C. , Cahill Jesse L. , Rasche Eric S. , Kuty Everett Gabriel F.
Published: October 2015

Bacteriophage Merlin is a T4-like myophage which infects
Citrobacter freundii
, a member of the
Enterobacteriaceae
family.
C. freundii
is an opportunistic pathogen that is a common cause of nosocomial infections. This report announces the complete genome of myophage Merlin and describes its features.
Draft Genome Sequences of Four Genetically Distinct Human Isolates of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp.
equisimilis
Authors: Evers Caitlin , Patel Khushali , Petrosyan Varduhi , Morrison Clay , Varghese Viju , Chu Randy A. , Baig Aymen , Thompson Erika J. , Chase Michael , Hu Peter C. , Kalia Awdhesh
Published: October 2015

β-Hemolytic group C and group G streptococci (GCS-GGS;
Streptococcus dysgalactiae
subsp.
equisimilis
) emerged as human pathogens in the late 1970s. We report here the draft genome sequences of four genetically distinct human strains of GCS-GGS isolated between the 1960s and 1980s. Comparative analysis of these genomes may provide a deeper understanding of GCS-GGS genome and virulence evolution.
Complete Genome Sequences of Evolved Arsenate-Resistant Metallosphaera sedula Strains
Authors: Ai Chenbing , McCarthy Samuel , Schackwitz Wendy , Martin Joel , Lipzen Anna , Blum Paul
Published: October 2015

Metallosphaera sedula
is a thermoacidophilic crenarchaeote with a 2.19-Mb genome. Here, we report the genome sequences of several evolved derivatives of
M. sedula
generated through adaptive laboratory evolution for enhanced arsenate resistance.
Cognitive and physical symptoms of concussive injury in children: a detailed longitudinal recovery study
Authors: Crowe Louise , Collie Alex , Hearps Stephen , Dooley Julian , Clausen Helen , Maddocks David , McCrory Paul , Davis Gavin , Anderson Vicki
Published: October 2015

Background

Recovery from concussion sustained in childhood and adolescence is poorly understood. We explored patterns of recovery for neurocognition and postconcussive symptoms following concussion in children and adolescents.

Methods

Using a prospective, longitudinal design, we collected baseline data on 728 children and adolescents aged 10–17 years. 10 participants sustained a concussive injury (n=10) in the 12 months following baseline testing and they were reviewed at day 5, 10 and 30 postconcussion. Assessments included the CogSport for Kids computerised test battery to evaluate neurocognitive function and self-report, and parent measures of postconcussive symptoms. At day 30, parents also completed measures rating their child's quality of life and executive functions.

Results

Children and adolescents displayed a gradual reduction in postconcussive symptoms over the 30 days following injury. At day 5, 87% of participants were reporting physical and cognitive symptoms, with a generalised reduction in all symptoms by day 10 (40% of participants). On the computerised measure, reaction time was slower after concussion, but returned to baseline levels by day 30. At day 30, 10% of participants demonstrated ongoing postconcussive symptoms. Number of previous concussions was related to speed of symptom resolution.

Conclusions

At 5 days postconcussion, the majority of children and adolescents experienced debilitating postconcussive symptoms. However, by 30 days postinjury, 90% demonstrated recovery to normal for both neurocognition and postconcussive symptoms.
Exercise genomics—a paradigm shift is needed: a commentary
Authors: Bouchard Claude
Published: October 2015

The overarching goal of exercise genomics is to illuminate exercise biology and behaviour in order to better understand the preventive and therapeutic values of exercise. An ancillary aim is to understand the role of genomic variation in human physical attributes and sports performance. The aim of this report is to briefly comment on the current status of exercise genetics and genomics and to suggest potential improvements to the research agenda and translational activities. First, the genomic features of interest to the biology of exercise are defined. Then, the limit of the current focus on common variants and their implications for exercise genomics is highlighted. The need for a major paradigm shift in exercise genomics research is discussed with an emphasis on study designs and appropriately powered studies as well as on more mechanistic and functional research. Finally, a summary of current practices in translational activities compared with what best practice demands is introduced. One suggestion is that the research portfolio of exercise genomics be composed of a larger fraction of experimental and mechanistic investigations and a smaller fraction of observational studies. It is also recommended that research should shift to unbiased exploration of the genome using all the power of genomics, epigenomics and transcriptomics in combination with large observational but preferably experimental study designs, including Mendelian randomisation. In all cases, emphasis on replications is of paramount importance. This represents an extraordinary challenge that can only be met with large-scale collaborative and multicentre research programmes.
Bivalirudin versus unfractionated heparin: a meta-analysis of patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention for acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Farag Mohamed , Gorog Diana A , Prasad Abhiram , Srinivasan Manivannan
Published: October 2015

Objective

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) encompasses ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), with generally high thrombus burden and non-ST segment elevation ACS (NSTE-ACS), with lower thrombus burden. In the setting of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ACS, bivalirudin appears superior to unfractionated heparin (UFH), driven by reduced major bleeding. Recent trials suggest that the benefit of bivalirudin may be reduced with use of transradial access and evolution in antiplatelet therapy. Moreover, a differential role of bivalirudin in ACS cohorts is unknown.

Methods

A meta-analysis of randomised trials comparing bivalirudin and UFH in patients with ACS receiving PCI, with separate analyses in STEMI and NSTE-ACS groups. Overall estimates of treatment effect were calculated with random-effects model.

Results

In 5 trials of STEMI (10 358 patients), bivalirudin increased the risk of acute stent thrombosis (ST) (OR 3.62; CI 1.95 to 6.74; p<0.0001) compared with UFH. Bivalirudin reduced the risk of major bleeding only when compared with UFH plus planned glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPI) (OR 0.49; CI 0.36 to 0.67; p<0.00001). In 14 NSTE-ACS trials (25 238 patients), there was no difference between bivalirudin and UFH in death, myocardial infarction or ST. However, bivalirudin reduced the risk of major bleeding compared with UFH plus planned GPI (OR 0.52; CI 0.43 to 0.62; p<0.00001), or UFH plus provisional GPI (OR 0.68; CI 0.46 to 1.01; p=0.05). The reduction in major bleeding with bivalirudin was not related to vascular access site.

Conclusions

Bivalirudin increases the risk of acute ST in STEMI, but may confer an advantage over UFH in NSTE-ACS while undergoing PCI, reducing major bleeding without an increase in ST.
Bilateral perinephric pseudocysts in a cat
Authors: Salgüero Raquel , Arenas Carolina , Herrtage M. E.
Published: October 2015

A 14‐year‐old female neutered domestic shorthair cat was evaluated for a palpable abdominal mass, polyuria and polydipsia. Physical examination revealed a tense and distended abdomen. Blood work revealed moderate azotaemia. Both kidneys were reduced in size with decreased corticomedullary distinction and hyperechoic parenchyma. The kidneys were surrounded by a large subcapsular accumulation of anechoic fluid. Diagnosis of bilateral perinephric pseudocysts (PNP) and chronic renal disease was made. The PNP recurred three days post drainage. Fluid was consistent with a modified transudate. Medical treatment with diet and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor was started. PNP are uncommon subcapsular accumulation of fluid around the kidneys. Main differentials include urinoma and neoplasia, and therefore, the clinical history and examination of the fluid are important features in the work‐up of these patients.
Historical high-severity fire patches in mixed-conifer forests
Authors: Yocom-Kent Larissa L. , Fulé Peter Z. , Bunn Windy A. , Gdula Eric G.
Published: October 2015

Two ends of the fire regime spectrum are a frequent low-intensity fire regime and an infrequent high-intensity fire regime, but intermediate fire regimes combine high- and low-severity fire over space and time. We used fire-scar and tree-age data to reconstruct fire regime attributes of mixed-conifer and aspen forests in the North Rim area of Grand Canyon National Park, with a goal of estimating patch sizes of historical high-severity fire and comparing them with modern patch sizes. We used three methods based on (i) aspen groves, (ii) even-aged stands, and (iii) inverse distance weighting, to estimate occurrence and patch sizes of historical high-severity fire. Evidence of high-severity fire was common in the 1800s, and high-severity fire years were associated with drought. High-severity fire patch sizes likely ranged from 10−1 to 102 ha. However, the forest is quite young, and we cannot rule out a historical large high-severity fire that could have reinitiated much of the 1400 ha study area. Fire scars, which are indicative of low-severity fire, were also common. Historical fire was likely heterogeneous across the landscape. Maintaining heterogeneity of fire severity, size, and frequency would promote heterogeneity of forest structure and composition and resilience to future disturbances.
Time-dependent versus time-independent probabilities of transmission and reflection of a quantum particle incident upon a step potential and a square potential well
Authors: Shegelski Mark R.A. , Malmgren Kevin , Salayka-Ladouceur Logan
Published: October 2015

We investigate the transmission and reflection of a quantum particle incident upon a step potential decrease and a square well. The probabilities of transmission and reflection using the time-independent Schrödinger equation and also the time-dependent Schrödinger equation are in excellent agreement. We explain why the probabilities agree so well. In doing so, we make use of an exact analytical expression for the square well for time-dependent transmission and reflection, which reveals additional interesting and unexpected results. One such result is that transmission of a wave packet can occur with the probability of transmission depending weakly on the initial spread of the packet. The explanations and the additional results will be of interest to instructors of and students in upper year undergraduate quantum mechanics courses.
Critical behaviors and phase diagrams of the mixed spin-1 and spin-7/2 Blume-Capel (BC) Ising model on the Bethe lattice (BL)
Authors: Karimou M. , Yessoufou R. , Hontinfinde F.
Published: October 2015

Using the recursion equations technique, the influences of the single-ion anisotropies or crystal-fields interactions on the magnetic properties of the mixed spin-1 and spin-7/2 Blume-Capel (BC) Ising ferrimagnetic system are studied on the Bethe lattice (BL). The ground-state phase diagram is constructed, the thermal behaviors of the order-parameters and the free-energy are thoroughly investigated in order to characterize the nature of the phase transitions and to obtain the phase transition temperature. Then, the temperature phase diagrams are obtained in the case of equal crystal-field interactions on the ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]) planes when q = 3, 4 and 6 and in the case of unequal crystal-fields interactions on the ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]) and [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]) planes for selected values of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] respectively when q = 3. The model shows first-order and second-order phase transitions, and where the lines are connected is the tricritical point. Besides the first-order and second-order phase transitions, the system also exhibits compensation temperatures depending on appropriate values of the crystal-fields interactions.
Feedback magnetization of ultra-low index irradiative structure
Authors: Rybin Oleg , Shulga Sergey
Published: October 2015

Ultra-low refractive index irradiative structure is considered. The structure consists of a patch antenna with the metamaterial slab located on top of the antenna, as superstrate. In this study, ultra-low index phenomenon of the irradiative system is associated with improving the directivity of the patch antenna by putting the metamaterial slab on top of the antenna. The last phenomenon, in turn, is associated with the feedback partial magnetization of Iron inclusions of the slab caused by the radiation from the antenna. Mathematical model for evaluating the complex effective relative permittivity of the irradiative structure is developed. Numerical calculations for complex effective relative permittivity of the irradiative structure and real part of the complex effective relative permeability of the metamaterial slab are done in the study.
Quantizations of the Extended Affine Lie Algebra $\widetilde{\frak{sl}_2(\mathbb{C}_q)}$
Authors: Xu Ying , Li Junbo
Published: October 2015

In this paper, the extended affine Lie algebra [Formula: see text] is quantized from three different points of view, which produces three non-commutative and non-cocommutative Hopf algebra structures, and yields other three quantizations by an isomorphism of [Formula: see text] correspondingly. Moreover, two of these quantizations can be restricted to the extended affine Lie algebra [Formula: see text].
A Proof of Wedderburn's Theorem
Authors: Cuenca Mira José Antonio
Published: October 2015

In this note we first introduce the finite weak Herstein condition, which is a property that holds for every finite field. For a field F satisfying the finite weak Herstein condition, we then characterize whether all the finite-dimensional division F-algebras are commutative. This gives an alternate proof of Wedderburn's Theorem.
A Length Function for Weyl Groups of Extended Affine Root Systems of Type A1
Authors: Azam Saeid , Nikouei Mohammad
Published: October 2015

In this work, we study the concept of the length function and some of its combinatorial properties for the class of extended affine root systems of type A1. We introduce a notion of root basis for these root systems, and using a unique expression of the elements of the Weyl group with respect to a set of generators for the Weyl group, we calculate the length function with respect to a very specific root basis.
Ideals Whose First Two Betti Numbers Are Close
Authors: Borna Keivan , Hassanzadeh S. H.
Published: October 2015

For an ideal I of a Noetherian local ring [Formula: see text] one has [Formula: see text]. It is demonstrated that some residual intersections of an ideal I for which [Formula: see text] or 0 are perfect.
Spanning Simplicial Complexes of Uni-Cyclic Graphs
Authors: Anwar Imran , Raza Zahid , Kashif Agha
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we introduce the concept of the spanning simplicial complex Δs(G) associated to a simple finite connected graph G. We characterize all spanning trees of the uni-cyclic graph Un,m. In particular, we give a formula for computing the Hilbert series and h-vector of the Stanley-Reisner ring k[Δs(Un,m)]. Finally, we prove that the spanning simplicial complex Δs(Un,m) is shifted and hence is shellable.
Despite sequence homologies to gluten, salivary proline-rich proteins do not elicit immune responses central to the pathogenesis of celiac disease
Authors: Tian Na , Leffler Daniel A. , Kelly Ciaran P. , Hansen Joshua , Marietta Eric V. , Murray Joseph A. , Schuppan Detlef , Helmerhorst Eva J.
Published: October 2015

Celiac disease (CD) is an inflammatory disorder triggered by ingested gluten, causing immune-mediated damage to the small-intestinal mucosa. Gluten proteins are strikingly similar in amino acid composition and sequence to proline-rich proteins (PRPs) in human saliva. On the basis of this feature and their shared destination in the gastrointestinal tract, we hypothesized that salivary PRPs may modulate gluten-mediated immune responses in CD. Parotid salivary secretions were collected from CD patients, refractory CD patients, non-CD patients with functional gastrointestinal complaints, and healthy controls. Structural similarities of PRPs with gluten were probed with anti-gliadin antibodies. Immune responses to PRPs were investigated toward CD patient-derived peripheral blood mononuclear cells and in a humanized transgenic HLA-DQ2/DQ8 mouse model for CD. Anti-gliadin antibodies weakly cross-reacted with the abundant salivary amylase but not with PRPs. Likewise, the R5 antibody, recognizing potential antigenic gluten epitopes, showed negligible reactivity to salivary proteins from all groups. Inflammatory responses in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were provoked by gliadins whereas responses to PRPs were similar to control levels, and PRPs did not compete with gliadins in immune stimulation. In vivo, PRP peptides were well tolerated and nonimmunogenic in the transgenic HLA-DQ2/DQ8 mouse model. Collectively, although structurally similar to dietary gluten, salivary PRPs were nonimmunogenic in CD patients and in a transgenic HLA-DQ2/DQ8 mouse model for CD. It is possible that salivary PRPs play a role in tolerance induction to gluten early in life. Deciphering the structural basis for the lack of immunogenicity of salivary PRPs may further our understanding of the toxicity of gluten.
A dilated cardiomyopathy mutation blunts adrenergic response and induces contractile dysfunction under chronic angiotensin II stress
Authors: Wilkinson Ross , Song Weihua , Smoktunowicz Natalia , Marston Steven
Published: October 2015

We investigated cardiac contractility in the ACTC E361G transgenic mouse model of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). No differences in cardiac dimensions or systolic function were observed in young mice, whereas young adult mice exhibited only mild diastolic abnormalities. Dobutamine had an inotropic and lusitropic effect on the mouse heart. In papillary muscle at 37°C, dobutamine increased relaxation rates [∼50% increase of peak rate of force decline normalized to force (dF/dtmin/F), 25% reduction of time to 90% relaxation (t90) in nontransgenic (NTG) mice], but in the ACTC E361G mouse, dF/dtmin/F was increased 20–30%, and t90 was only reduced 10% at 10 Hz. Pressure-volume measurements showed increases in maximum rate of pressure decline and decreases in time constant of left ventricular pressure decay in the ACTC E361G mouse that were 25–30% of the changes in the NTG mouse, consistent with blunting of the lusitropic response. The inotropic effect of dobutamine was also blunted in ACTC E361G mice, and the dobutamine-stimulated increase in cardiac output (CO) was reduced from 2,100 to 900 μl/min. Mice were treated with high doses of ANG II for 4 wk. The chronic stress treatment evoked systolic dysfunction in ACTC E361G mice but not in NTG. There was a significant reduction in rates of pressure increase and decrease, as well as reduced end-systolic pressure and increased volume. Ejection fraction and CO were reduced in the ACTC E361G mouse, indicating DCM. In vitro DCM-causing mutations uncouple the relationship between Ca2+ sensitivity and troponin I phosphorylation. We conclude that this leads to the observed, reduced response to β1 agonists and reduced cardiac reserve that predisposes the heart to DCM under conditions of chronic stress.
N-acetylcysteine reverses diastolic dysfunction and hypertrophy in familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wilder Tanganyika , Ryba David M. , Wieczorek David F. , Wolska Beata M. , Solaro R. John
Published: October 2015

S-glutathionylation of cardiac myosin-binding protein C (cMyBP-C) induces Ca2+ sensitization and a slowing of cross-bridge kinetics as a result of increased oxidative signaling. Although there is evidence for a role of oxidative stress in disorders associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), this mechanism is not well understood. We investigated whether oxidative myofilament modifications may be in part responsible for diastolic dysfunction in HCM. We administered N-acetylcysteine (NAC) for 30 days to 1-mo-old wild-type mice and to transgenic mice expressing a mutant tropomyosin (Tm-E180G) and nontransgenic littermates. Tm-E180G hearts demonstrate a phenotype similar to human HCM. After NAC administration, the morphology and diastolic function of Tm-E180G mice was not significantly different from controls, indicating that NAC had reversed baseline diastolic dysfunction and hypertrophy in our model. NAC administration also increased sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase protein expression, reduced extracellular signal-related kinase 1/2 phosphorylation, and normalized phosphorylation of phospholamban, as assessed by Western blot. Detergent-extracted fiber bundles from NAC-administered Tm-E180G mice showed nearly nontransgenic (NTG) myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity. Additionally, we found that NAC increased tension cost and rate of cross-bridge reattachment. Tm-E180G myofilaments were found to have a significant increase in S-glutathionylation of cMyBP-C, which was returned to NTG levels upon NAC administration. Taken together, our results indicate that oxidative myofilament modifications are an important mediator in diastolic function, and by relieving this modification we were able to reverse established diastolic dysfunction and hypertrophy in HCM.
An oxidative DNA “damage” and repair mechanism localized in the VEGF promoter is important for hypoxia-induced VEGF mRNA expression
Authors: Pastukh Viktor , Roberts Justin T. , Clark David W. , Bardwell Gina C. , Patel Mita , Al-Mehdi Abu-Bakr , Borchert Glen M. , Gillespie Mark N.
Published: October 2015

In hypoxia, mitochondria-generated reactive oxygen species not only stimulate accumulation of the transcriptional regulator of hypoxic gene expression, hypoxia inducible factor-1 (Hif-1), but also cause oxidative base modifications in hypoxic response elements (HREs) of hypoxia-inducible genes. When the hypoxia-induced base modifications are suppressed, Hif-1 fails to associate with the HRE of the VEGF promoter, and VEGF mRNA accumulation is blunted. The mechanism linking base modifications to transcription is unknown. Here we determined whether recruitment of base excision DNA repair (BER) enzymes in response to hypoxia-induced promoter modifications was required for transcription complex assembly and VEGF mRNA expression. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses in pulmonary artery endothelial cells, we found that hypoxia-mediated formation of the base oxidation product 8-oxoguanine (8-oxoG) in VEGF HREs was temporally associated with binding of Hif-1α and the BER enzymes 8-oxoguanine glycosylase 1 (Ogg1) and redox effector factor-1 (Ref-1)/apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (Ape1) and introduction of DNA strand breaks. Hif-1α colocalized with HRE sequences harboring Ref-1/Ape1, but not Ogg1. Inhibition of BER by small interfering RNA-mediated reduction in Ogg1 augmented hypoxia-induced 8-oxoG accumulation and attenuated Hif-1α and Ref-1/Ape1 binding to VEGF HRE sequences and blunted VEGF mRNA expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequence analysis of 8-oxoG distribution in hypoxic pulmonary artery endothelial cells showed that most of the oxidized base was localized to promoters with virtually no overlap between normoxic and hypoxic data sets. Transcription of genes whose promoters lost 8-oxoG during hypoxia was reduced, while those gaining 8-oxoG was elevated. Collectively, these findings suggest that the BER pathway links hypoxia-induced introduction of oxidative DNA modifications in promoters of hypoxia-inducible genes to transcriptional activation.
Getting a Life Takes Time: The Development of the Life Story in Adolescence, Its Precursors and Consequences
Authors: Habermas Tilmann , Reese Elaine
Published: October 2015

The life story is a special cognitive-communicative format which allows understanding persons from a biographical perspective through autobiographical reasoning and life narrating. Reviewing research on the development of the life story from the past 15 years, we clarify the conceptual and developmental specificity of the life story by comparing it to single event stories, and the specificity of autobiographical reasoning by comparing it to other forms of reasoning. To support the claim that the life story emerges only in adolescence, we review the earlier development of self and autobiographical remembering leading up to the life story. We outline the significance of autobiographical reasoning for bridging biographical ruptures, and we discuss the meaning of the cultural context for the development of the life story and its functionality. Finally, we suggest major developmental research questions that remain to be pursued.
L-Carnitine Ameliorates Cancer Cachexia in Mice Partly via the Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase-Associated PPAR-γ Signaling Pathway
Authors: Jiang Fang , Zhang Zongqi , Zhang Yi , Pan Xiaohui , Yu Li , Liu Su
Published: October 2015

Background:L-Carnitine has been demonstrated to ameliorate cachectic symptoms. In the present study, we sought to investigate the role of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) signaling pathway in the ameliorative effects of L-carnitine on cancer cachexia in a colon-26 tumor-bearing mouse model. Methods: The cachectic mice received L-carnitine (p.o.) or etomoxir (i.p.), or pioglitazone hydrochloride (p.o.) or GW9662 (i.p.). The physiological cachexia parameters, biochemical parameters, and serum cytokines were measured. The expression levels of representative molecules in the PPAR-γ signaling pathway were measured by using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or Western blot analysis. Results: Oral administration of L-carnitine at 9 mg/kg/day improved the cachexia parameters and biochemical parameters in cancer cachectic mice. The elevated serum concentrations of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were decreased by L-carnitine. These ameliorative effects of L-carnitine were lessened by the carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT I) inhibitor, etomoxir. The mRNA and protein expression levels of PPAR-α and PPAR-γ were decreased in the livers of cancer cachectic mice and increased after L-carnitine administration, which attenuated the increased mRNA expression levels of sterol-regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) and fatty acid synthase (FAS). Similar to pioglitazone, L-carnitine augmented the phosphorylation of PPAR-γ and attenuated the expression levels of phospho-p65 and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2. Additionally, the above-mentioned effects of L-carnitine were reversed by GW9662. Conclusion:L-Carnitine exerts its ameliorative effects in cancer cachexia in association with the PPAR-γ signaling pathway.
Transient Elastography in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients on Hemodialysis: The Effect of Net Fluid Withdrawal
Authors: Khunpakdee Narongrit , Jayanama Kullapong , Kaewdoung Piyaporn , Promson Kwannapa , Rattanasiri Sasivimol , Warodomwichit Daruneewan , Kantachuvesiri Surasak , Sobhonslidsuk Abhasnee
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: The impact of volume status on liver stiffness measurement (LSM) as measured by transient elastography (TE) as in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was unclear. We evaluated LSM before and after hemodialysis (HD) and identified the associated factors if the difference of LSM existed. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in ESRD patients on regular HD. Subjects underwent TE and bioelectrical impedance before and after HD. Results: Thirty-six patients were enrolled. Mean (SD) net fluid withdrawal volume (NFWV) per session was 2.55 (0.9) l. Median (range) pre- and post-HD LSMs were 5.38 (2.8-25.7) and 5.4 (2.8-26) kPa, respectively (p = 0.712). Mean differences of pre- and post-HD LSMs correlated with NFWV (r = 0.49, 95% CI 0.19-0.71, p = 0.002). Conclusion: In ESRD on regular HD, LSM is not affected by HD. TE can be done before or after HD with similar results. However, fluid excess at pre-HD can cause inaccurately high LSM.
The Influence of Various Parameters on the Success of Sensor-Controlled Scalp Cooling in Preventing Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia
Authors: Schaffrin-Nabe Dörthe , Schmitz Inge , Josten-Nabe Anke , von Hehn Ulrike , Voigtmann Rudolf
Published: October 2015

Background: The influence of systemic comorbidities on the success of scalp cooling during chemotherapy (CT) is widely unexplored. Comorbidities often require additional medication which itself can occasionally cause alopecia. This study investigates the influence of selected parameters on the efficacy of scalp cooling for the prevention of CT-induced alopecia. Patients and Methods: 226 cancer patients were treated with various CT regimens in combination with sensor-controlled scalp cooling. 136 breast cancer patients received (neo)adjuvant therapy, and 76 of these patients received epirubicine and cyclophosphamide (4× EC 3w) followed by paclitaxel (12× T w). The following parameters were prospectively investigated: chemotherapy-induced alopecia, systemic comorbidities and co-medication, nicotine abuse, hair treatment, menopausal status, and trichologic status. Results: Scalp cooling was successful (no or not visible hair loss; common toxicity criteria 0-1) in 65% of all patients, in 65% of the 136 breast cancer patients, and in 68% of the 76 patients receiving EC/T. In this subgroup, premenopausal patients (p = 0.009) and those without systemic comorbidities (p = 0.003), without co-medication (p < 0.001) and with high hair density (p = 0.038) showed less hair loss during CT; an effect was also seen for nicotine abuse (p = 0.023). Hair length and hair treatment had no significant influence. Conclusion: Sensor-controlled scalp cooling represents an effective addition to supportive cancer therapy. The success of scalp cooling depends on the applied CT regimen. Parameters like menopausal status, systemic comorbidities, medication, nicotine abuse, and original hair density also influence the outcome of hair loss prevention.
Pretreatment Pokemon Level as a Predictor of Response to Cisplatin and Paclitaxel in Patients with Unresectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhang Quan-Le , Xing Xi-Zhi , Li Feng-Yan , Xing Ya-Juan , Li Jing
Published: October 2015

Background: We firstly investigated the expression of Pokemon in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), then characterized the role of Pokemon in evaluating the response to combined cisplatin and paclitaxel chemotherapy and prognosis. Patients and Methods: In this study, 61 patients with previously untreated locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC were treated with a combination chemotherapy comprising cisplatin and paclitaxel. The correlation between serum expression of Pokemon and effectiveness of chemotherapy was assessed. Results: The expression level of Pokemon in NSCLC patients was higher than that in healthy controls (p = 0.000), and was correlated with tumor size and TNM stage (p < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated a poor response and shorter survival time in patients with pretreatment Pokemon levels in excess of 135.09 ng/ml compared to those with Pokemon levels below 135.09 ng/ml (p = 0.013). Pokemon ≥ 135.09 ng/ml was an independent risk factor for survival time in NSCLC patients undergoing combination chemotherapy (p = 0.018). Conclusion: The serum level of Pokemon correlated with efficacy of cisplatin and paclitaxel combination chemotherapy and survival time, which indicated that Pokemon may be a potentially useful biomarker for predicting treatment effectiveness of first-line chemotherapy and prognosis in NSCLC.