bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Combined Inhibitory Effect of the Adenosine A1and Cannabinoid CB1Receptors on cAMP Accumulation in the Hippocampus Is Additive and Independent of A1Receptor Desensitization
Authors: Serpa André , Correia Sara , Ribeiro Joaquim A. , Sebastião Ana M. , Cascalheira José F.
Published: January 2015

Adenosine A1and cannabinoid CB1receptors are highly expressed in hippocampus where they trigger similar transduction pathways. We investigated how the combined acute activation of A1and CB1receptors modulates cAMP accumulation in rat hippocampal slices. The CB1agonist WIN55212-2 (0.3–30 μM) decreased forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation with an EC50of 6.6 ± 2.7 μM and anEmax⁡of 31% ± 2%, whereas for the A1agonist, N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA, 10–150 nM), an EC50of 35 ± 19 nM, and anEmax⁡of 29% ± 5 were obtained. The combined inhibitory effect of WIN55212-2 (30 μM) and CPA (100 nM) on cAMP accumulation was 41% ± 6% (n=4), which did not differ (P>0.7) from the sum of the individual effects of each agonist (43% ± 8%) but was different (P<0.05) from the effects of CPA or WIN55212-2 alone. Preincubation with CPA (100 nM) for 95 min caused desensitization of adenosine A1activity, which did not modify the effect of WIN55212-2 (30 μM) on cAMP accumulation. In conclusion, the combined effect of CB1and A1receptors on cAMP formation is additive and CB1receptor activity is not affected by short-term A1receptor desensitization.
The Effects of Tai Chi in Centrally Obese Adults with Depression Symptoms
Authors: Liu Xin , Vitetta Luis , Kostner Karam , Crompton David , Williams Gail , Brown Wendy J. , Lopez Alan , Xue Charlie C. , Oei Tian P. , Byrne Gerard , Martin Jennifer H. , Whiteford Harvey
Published: January 2015

This study examined the effects of Tai Chi, a low-impact mind-body movement therapy, on severity of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in centrally obese people with elevated depression symptoms. In total, 213 participants were randomized to a 24-week Tai Chi intervention program or a wait-list control group. Assessments were conducted at baseline and 12 and 24 weeks. Outcomes were severity of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms, leg strength, central obesity, and other measures of metabolic symptom. There were statistically significant between-group differences in favor of the Tai Chi group in depression (mean difference = −5.6 units,P<0.001), anxiety (−2.3 units,P<0.01), and stress (−3.6 units,P<0.001) symptom scores and leg strength (1.1 units,P<0.001) at 12 weeks. These changes were further improved or maintained in the Tai Chi group relative to the control group during the second 12 weeks of follow-up. Tai Chi appears to be beneficial for reducing severity of depression, anxiety, and stress and leg strength in centrally obese people with depression symptoms. More studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm the findings. This trial is registered withACTRN12613000010796.
Management of Cerebellar Tonsillar Herniation following Lumbar Puncture in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Hoffman Kenneth R. , Chan Sean W. , Hughes Andrew R. , Halcrow Stephen J.
Published: January 2015

Lumbar puncture is performed routinely for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in idiopathic intracranial hypertension, despite lumbar puncture being classically contraindicated in the setting of raised intracranial pressure. We report the case of a 30-year-old female with known idiopathic intracranial hypertension who had cerebellar tonsillar herniation following therapeutic lumbar puncture. Management followed guidelines regarding treatment of traumatic intracranial hypertension, including rescue decompressive craniectomy. We hypothesize that the changes in brain compliance that are thought to occur in the setting of idiopathic intracranial hypertension are protective against further neuronal injury due to axonal stretch following decompressive craniectomy.
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Secondary to Forceful Sneeze
Authors: Nomani Ali Zohair , Rajput Haris Majid , Iqbal Mansoor , Jan Zakir , Irshad Muhammad , Badshah Mazhar , Khan Rao Sohail Yasin
Published: January 2015

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a relatively less common but important neurological condition comprising 5% of all the cerebrovascular accidents. In most populations the reported incidence is 6-7 per 100,000 person-years and one-third of survivors become dependent. It is a serious but potentially treatable cause of neurological morbidity. Multiple authors have identified the most unusual novel associations and triggers of subarachnoid bleeds over the past decade. We herein report a rare case of subarachnoid hemorrhage leading to focal neurological deficit in a middle aged man secondary to forceful sneeze.
Osteomyelitis Infection ofMycobacterium marinum: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Nguyen Hao H. , Fadul Nada , Ashraf Muhammad S. , Siraj Dawd S.
Published: January 2015

Mycobacterium marinum(M. marinum) is a ubiquitous waterborne organism that grows optimally at temperatures around 30°C. It is a nontuberculousMycobacteriumfound in nonchlorinated water with worldwide prevalence. It is the most common atypicalMycobacteriumthat causes opportunistic infection in humans.M. marinumcan cause superficial infections and localized invasive infections in humans, with the hands being the sites most frequently affected. It can cause skin lesions, which are either single, papulonodular lesions, confined to an extremity, or may resemble cutaneous sporotrichosis. This infection can also cause deeper infections including tenosynovitis, bursitis, arthritis, and osteomyelitis. Disseminated infections and visceral involvements have been reported in immunocompromised patients. We here report a case of severe deep soft tissue infection with necrotizing fasciitis and osteomyelitis of the left upper extremity (LUE) caused byM. marinumin an immunocompromised patient.
An Energy and Latency Aware WSN MAC Protocol for Bidirectional Traffic in Data Collection
Authors: Min Ji-Yeon , Chung Sang-Hwa , Ha Yuvin
Published: January 2015

This paper proposes a new Energy and Latency Aware MAC (ELA-MAC) protocol that provides high energy-efficiency and low latency for data collection applications in wireless sensor networks. In previous research, B-MAC+ avoids the receiver node's preamble overhearing of B-MAC with short preamble packets including only the destination address and the preamble packet number. However, like B-MAC, B-MAC+ has the sender node's preamble overhead and communication latency. XY-MAC tries to solve these problems with inserting an early ACK between preamble packets. However, with the independence of each node's wake-up point, the receiver node's idle listening duration of XY-MAC is always longer than that of B-MAC+. ELA-MAC spreads collection-request without using an early ACK and delivers collection-response using an early ACK with considering the traffic types such as broadcasting and convergecasting. In this way, energy consumption on both downlink and uplink can be reduced. Besides, the time for collecting data can be shortened on uplink. With the experimental parameter obtained by the energy consumption analysis, the experiment was performed on a real sensor network test bed with various topologies. We obtained the result that ELA-MAC improves the energy efficiency by 12% and 37% compared to B-MAC+ and XY-MAC, respectively, and data collection time by 28% compared to B-MAC+.
Trigger Pulse Generator Using Proposed Buffered Delay Model and Its Application
Authors: Dwivedi Amit Krishna , Urma Kumar Abhijeet , Islam Aminul
Published: January 2015

This paper proposes a circuit capable of incorporating buffered delays in the order of picoseconds. To study our proposed circuit in the profound way, we have also explored our proposed circuit using emerging technologies such as FinFET and CNFET. Comparisons between these technologies have been made in terms of different parameters such as duration of incorporated delays (pulse width) and its variability with supply voltages. Further, this paper also proposes a trigger pulse generator by utilizing proposed buffered delay circuit as its basic element. Parametric results obtained for the proposed trigger pulse generator match different application specific requirements. These applications are also mentioned in this paper. The proposed trigger pulse generator requires very low supply voltage (700 mV) and also proves its effectiveness in terms of tunability of pulse width of the generated pulses. The modeling of the circuit has been done using Verilog and the simulation results are extensively verified using SPICE.
Effect of Li(I) and TiO2on the Upconversion Luminance of Pr:Y2SiO5and Its Photodegradation on Nitrobenzene Wastewater
Authors: Yang Yi , Xia Guang-Zhi , Liu Cheng , Zhang Jin-Hua , Wang Lian-Jun
Published: January 2015

Based on the substrate of Pr:Y2SiO5upconversion nanomaterials, lithium ion Li(I) doped Pr:Y2SiO5and TiO2nanofilm coated Li,Pr:Y2SiO5composites were prepared by using a sol-gel method. X-ray diffractometer, SEM, and fluorescence spectrometer have been employed to test the crystal structure, microimages, and upconversion luminescence performances. The doping of Li(I) affects highly the crystal transition of Pr:Y2SiO5and X2-Y2SiO5phase was well formed by doping 8% Li(I). Furthermore, the doping of Li(I) also brings high luminance intensity of Pr:Y2SiO5and contributes to a maximum intensity of 9.76 × 106cps doped 8%. Too much of Li(I) doping would result in big crystal size and fluorescence quenching of Pr:Y2SiO5material. However, the coating of TiO2nanofilm is not helping in increasing the upconversion fluorescence of Li,Pr:Y2SiO5but is promoting the full use of the fluorescence. The luminescence intensities of TiO2/Li,Pr:Y2SiO5composites are getting down sharply with the coating amount since the luminescence emitted by Li,Pr:Y2SiO5is quickly adsorbed in situ by the TiO2coating film. With the optimum coating concentration of 1%, the TiO2/Li,Pr:Y2SiO5composite shows excellent photodegradation performances on nitrobenzene wastewater, though it shows a low luminescence intensity. For 5 mg/L nitrobenzene wastewater, the composite presents a photodegradation rate of 97.08% in 4 hours.
Automated Classification of Glandular Tissue by Statistical Proximity Sampling
Authors: Azar Jimmy C. , Simonsson Martin , Bengtsson Ewert , Hast Anders
Published: January 2015

Due to the complexity of biological tissue and variations in staining procedures, features that are based on the explicit extraction of properties from subglandular structures in tissue images may have difficulty generalizing well over an unrestricted set of images and staining variations. We circumvent this problem by an implicit representation that is both robust and highly descriptive, especially when combined with a multiple instance learning approach to image classification. The new feature method is able to describe tissue architecture based on glandular structure. It is based on statistically representing the relative distribution of tissue components around lumen regions, while preserving spatial and quantitative information, as a basis for diagnosing and analyzing different areas within an image. We demonstrate the efficacy of the method in extracting discriminative features for obtaining high classification rates for tubular formation in both healthy and cancerous tissue, which is an important component in Gleason and tubule-based Elston grading. The proposed method may be used for glandular classification, also in other tissue types, in addition to general applicability as a region-based feature descriptor in image analysis where the image represents a bag with a certain label (or grade) and the region-based feature vectors represent instances.
The Protective Effect of Lacidipine on Myocardial Remodeling Is Mediated by the Suppression in Expression of GPR78 and CHOP in Rats
Authors: Ge Yingxiao , Li Gang , Liu Baoxin , Guo Huixin , Wang Dongzhi , Jie Qiqiang , Che Wenliang , Hou Lei , Wei Yidong
Published: January 2015

Lacidipine (LAC) is now widely used for the treatment of hypertension and further can prevent cardiac hypertrophy and remodeling. However, the underlying mechanism has not been fully understood. In this study, we examined the protective effects of LAC on cardiac remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and investigated the possible mechanism. Four weeks after administration of the designated drugs, blood pressure, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), and rterial pressure (MAP) were measured. The endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) parameters such as GRP78 and CHOP expressions in cardiomyocytes were also detected by immunohistochemistry. Results showed that the MAP in 0.36 and 0.72 mg/kg LAC groups was markedly lowered compared with that of the SHR control group (P<0.01orP<0.05). Moreover, 0.72 mg/kg LAC could also significantly decrease the LVMI (P<0.05). Simultaneously, the results of immunohistochemistry demonstrated that the expression of GRP78 and CHOP was significantly decreased by 0.72 mg/kg LAC (P<0.05), respectively. Our present study suggested that LAC could lower blood pressure and could prevent left ventricular hypertrophy accompanied by inhibiting expression of GRP78 and CHOP in ERS.
Primary Vaginal Myeloid Sarcoma: A Rare Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Modi Gaurang , Madabhavi Irappa , Panchal Harsha , Patel Apurva , Anand Asha , Parikh Sonia , Jain Pritam , Revannasiddaiah Swaroop , Sarkar Malay
Published: January 2015

Myeloid sarcoma (chloroma, granulocytic sarcoma, or extramedullary myeloid tumour) is an extramedullary mass forming neoplasm composed of myeloid precursor cells. It is usually associated with myeloproliferative disorders but very rarely may precede the onset of leukemia. Here, we are presenting a rare case of primary vaginal myeloid sarcoma in a geriatric female patient without initial presentation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A 68-year-old female patient with ECOG Performance Score of 1 presented with pervaginal bleeding for 20 days. On colposcopic examination, she was found to have mass in the anterior fornix of vagina. A punch biopsy specimen revealed chloromatous infiltration of the vagina. LCA (leukocyte common antigen), MPO (myeloperoxidase), and c-kit were strongly positive on IHC (immunohistochemistry). The patient’s routine blood investigations were normal including peripheral smear, lactose dehydrogenase, uric acid, 2D echocardiography, conventional cytogenetics, bone marrow aspiration, and biopsy. The patient was given 4 cycles of decitabine (Decitex, manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, India), 20 mg/m2for 5 days at an interval of 28 days. There was a partial response to decitabine according to RECIST criteria. As decitabine therapy was well tolerated, we are continuing in the same way until disease progression without any complications. The patient is undergoing regular follow-up at our centre.
Use of Selected Essential Oils to Control Aflatoxin Contaminated Stored Cashew and Detection of Aflatoxin Biosynthesis Gene
Authors: Abd El-Aziz Abeer R. M. , Mahmoud Mohamed A. , Al-Othman Monira R. , Al-Gahtani Munirah F.
Published: January 2015

Aspergillus spp. associated with cashew from the regions of Riyadh, Dammam, and Abha were isolated and three different culture media were used to qualitatively measure aflatoxin production by Aspergillus via UV light (365 nm), which was expressed as positive or negative. The obtained data showed that six isolates of A. flavus and four isolates of A. parasiticus were positive for aflatoxin production, while all isolates of A. niger were negative. Five commercially essential oils (thyme, garlic, cinnamon, mint, and rosemary) were tested to determine their influence on growth and aflatoxin production in A. flavus and A. parasiticus by performing high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results showed that the tested essential oils caused highly significant inhibition of fungal growth and aflatoxin production in A. flavus and A. parasiticus. The extent of the inhibition of fungal growth and aflatoxin production was dependent on the type and concentration of essential oils applied. The results indicate that cinnamon and thyme oils show strong antimicrobial potential. PCR was used with four sets of primer pairs for nor-1, omt-1, ver-1, and aflR genes, enclosed in the aflatoxin biosynthetic pathway. The interpretation of the results revealed that PCR is a rapid and sensitive method.
Experimental Heat Transfer Study on Green Roofs in a Semiarid Climate during Summer
Authors: Issa Roy J. , Leitch Kenneth , Chang Byungik
Published: January 2015

An experimental study was conducted on green roofs under the semiarid summer climatic conditions of West Texas to investigate the effect of soil type, moisture content, and the presence of a top soil grass layer on the conductive heat transfer through the roof. Two soil types were investigated: uniform sand and local silt clay. Tests were also conducted on a control roof. A dual-needle heat-pulse sensor was used to conduct thermal property tests on the soils. The tests reveal that unlike sand, the thermal conductivity of silt clay did not increase continuously with soil moisture. Better heat transfer conditions were achieved when the sand and silt clay roofs were watered to a water depth of 10 mm per day rather than double the amount of 20 mm per day. The roof with silt clay soil had the lowest fluctuation in inner temperature between daytime and nighttime. Green roofs with silt clay soil required more than twice the amount of soil moisture than green roofs with sand to achieve similar roof heat transfer rates. The best net heat flux gains for vegetated green roofs were 4.7 W/m2 for the sand roof and 7.8 W/m2 for the silt clay roof.
The Links between Energy Consumption, Financial Development, and Economic Growth in Lebanon: Evidence from Cointegration with Unknown Structural Breaks
Authors: Abosedra Salah , Shahbaz Muhammad , Sbia Rashid
Published: January 2015

We investigate the relation between financial development, energy consumption, and economic growth in the economy of Lebanon over the period 2000M2–2010M12. Our findings confirm the existence of cointegration among the variables. The results indicate that financial development and energy consumption contribute to economic growth in Lebanon. The impact of energy consumption on economic growth is positive showing the significance of energy as a main stimulant of economic growth. Financial development is also found to play a vital role in enhancing economic growth. Financial development and economic growth also result in further increase in energy consumption. We offer some policy implications specific to Lebanon considering the recent discovery of large oil and gas reserves in the country and the historical importance of its banking sector which remains a center of Lebanon’s service-oriented economy.
Synthesis Method Effect of CoFe2O4 on Its Photocatalytic Properties for H2 Production from Water and Visible Light
Authors: Ortega López Yudith , Medina Vázquez Hugo , Salinas Gutiérrez Jesús , Guzmán Velderrain Vanessa , López Ortiz Alejandro , Collins Martínez Virginia
Published: January 2015

Currently, the need for more efficient materials that work in the visible light spectrum for hydrogen production has been increasing. Under this criterion, ferrites are ideal because their energetic properties are favorable to photocatalysis as they have a low band gap (1.5 to 3 ev). In this particular research, ferrite is presented as a hydrogen producer. Cobalt ferrites were synthesized by chemical coprecipitation (CP) and ball milling (BM) for comparison of their performance. The characterization of the materials was carried out with X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), BET surface area, UV‐VIS spectroscopy, and water adsorption/desorption tests. Evaluation of the photocatalytic activity under visible light was followed by gas chromatography. The results showed that cobalt ferrite by ball milling had a higher photocatalytic activity; this is attributed to the vacancies generated during the milling process at which the sample was exposed.
High CD133 Expression in the Nucleus and Cytoplasm Predicts Poor Prognosis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Huang Minjie , Zhu Huijun , Feng Jian , Ni Songshi , Huang Jianfei
Published: January 2015

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of Prominin-1 (CD133) in cancer cells and its potential value as a prognostic indicator of survival in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Methods. Cancerous tissues and matched normal tissues adjacent to the carcinoma from 239 NSCLC patients were obtained immediately after surgery. Immunohistochemistry of tissue microarrays was used to characterize the expression of CD133 in NSCLC and adjacent tissues. The correlation of CD133 expression with clinical characteristics and prognosis was determined by statistical analysis.Results. CD133 protein expression levels in both the cytoplasm and nucleus were significantly higher in NSCLC tissues compared with corresponding peritumoral tissue (P<0.05). CD133 expression in the nucleus of NSCLC cells was related to tumor diameter (P=0.027), tumor differentiation (P<0.001), and TNM stage (P=0.007). Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analyses revealed that high CD133 expression in the nucleus was an independent predictor of poor prognosis of NSCLC, as was high cytoplasmic CD133 expression (P<0.001).Conclusion. Our findings provide the first evidence that high expression of CD133 in both the nucleus and cytoplasm is associated with poor prognosis in NSCLC.
Cancer Stem Cells: Targeting the Roots of Cancer, Seeds of Metastasis, and Sources of Therapy Resistance
Authors: Adorno-Cruz Valery , Kibria Golam , Liu Xia , Doherty Mary , Junk Damian J. , Guan Dongyin , Hubert Chris , Venere Monica , Mulkearns-Hubert Erin , Sinyuk Maksim , Alvarado Alvaro , Caplan Arnold I. , Rich Jeremy , Gerson Stanton L. , Lathia Justin , Liu Huiping
Published: January 2015

With the goal to remove the roots of cancer, eliminate metastatic seeds, and overcome therapy resistance, the 2014 inaugural International Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) Conference at Cleveland, OH, convened together over 320 investigators, including 55 invited world-class speakers, 25 short oral presenters, and 100 poster presenters, to gain an in-depth understanding of CSCs and explore therapeutic opportunities targeting CSCs. The meeting enabled intriguing discussions on several topics including: genetics and epigenetics; cancer origin and evolution; microenvironment and exosomes; metabolism and inflammation; metastasis and therapy resistance; single cell and heterogeneity; plasticity and reprogramming; as well as other new concepts. Reports of clinical trials targeting CSCs emphasized the urgent need for strategically designing combinational CSC-targeting therapies against cancer. Cancer Res; 75(6); 924–9. ©2015 AACR.
Monitoring the Distribution of Surfactants in the Stratum Corneum by Combined ATR-FTIR and Tape-Stripping Experiments
Authors: Hoppel Magdalena , Holper Evelyn , Baurecht Dieter , Valenta Claudia
Published: January 2015

Combined ATR-FTIR (attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy and tape-stripping experiments in vitro on porcine ear skin were used to investigate the spatial distribution of different surfactants in the stratum corneum (SC). To reveal a possible connection between the size of the formed micelles and skin penetration, dynamic light-scattering measurements of the aqueous surfactant solutions were also taken. Compared to an alkyl polyglycoside and sucrose laurate, a deeper skin penetration of the anionic surfactants sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) und sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) could be related to a smaller size of the formed micelles. Beside the differences in spatial distribution, a link between the physical presence of anionic surfactants in the SC and a decrease of skin hydration was found. Furthermore, the incorporation of SDS and SLES into the SC, even after a brief, consumer-orientated washing procedure with commercially available hair shampoos, was confirmed.
Genomic Sequencing and the Impact of Molecular Diagnosis on Patient Care
Authors: Solomon Benjamin D.
Published: January 2015

Evolving sequencing technologies allow more accurate, efficient and affordable genomic analysis. As a result, these technologies are increasingly available, especially to provide molecular diagnoses for patients with suspected genetic disorders. However, there are many challenges to using genomic sequencing to benefit patients, including concerns that there is insufficient evidence that identifying an underlying molecular explanation may positively impact a patient's healthcare. This concern has many repercussions, including funding and/or (in some countries and healthcare systems) insurance reimbursement for genomic sequencing. To investigate this concern, all monogenic disorders were analyzed based on the impact of achieving molecular diagnosis. Of the 2,849 individual genes in which germline mutations cause disorders (not including contiguous gene syndromes or what may be categorized as susceptibility alleles), our analyses showed a specific, available intervention related to at least one affected organ system for 1,419 (49.8%) genes. In 95.6% of these genes, the intervention(s) would be recommended during the pediatric time frame.
Language Dysfunction Is Associated with Age of Onset of Benign Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes in Children
Authors: Ma Yanli , Chen Guohong , Wang Yuan , Xu Kaili
Published: January 2015

Aims: To assess the language function of children with benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS), and investigate associated risk factors. Methods: The language function of 63 children with BECTS and 30 healthy controls was assessed using the language subtest of the Chinese version of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (C-WISC). Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to assess the risk factors of language dysfunction in children with BECTS. Results: The total score of language test of C-WISC, and the individual scores, were significantly lower in children with BECTS compared with the scores attained by the healthy controls, and were also significantly lower in children with BECTS with onset earlier than 6 years of age compared with those whose disease onset occurred later. There were no significant correlations between language function and treatment, frequency of seizures, lateralization of centrotemporal spikes, or duration of seizures, but there was a positive correlation between language dysfunction and the age at disease onset. Conclusion: Children with BECTS have language difficulties, especially those with earlier disease onset. Early age at seizure onset is a risk factor for language dysfunction in children with BECTS.
SOCIOLOGIA DA INFÂNCIA E JOGOS TEATRAIS: territórios de uma pedagogia teatral
Authors: Gomes Sidmar Silveira
Published: January 2015

O presente artigo relata uma experiência de abordagem de trechos da dramaturgia de Romeu e Julieta, de William Shakespeare, por meio de jogos teatrais de Viola Spolin e de jogos tradicionais. Tendo a criança como sujeito dessa experiência, pretende-se com esse percurso a emersão de seus modos de ser e estar e a percepção de sua posição de sujeito de cultura, como demonstrado pelos estudos da sociologia da infância.
Mitochondrial Reprogramming Induced by CaMKIIδ Mediates Hypertrophy Decompensation
Authors: Westenbrink B. Daan , Ling Haiyun , Divakaruni Ajit S. , Gray Charles B.B. , Zambon Alexander C. , Dalton Nancy D. , Peterson Kirk L. , Gu Yusu , Matkovich Scot J. , Murphy Anne N. , Miyamoto Shigeki , Dorn Gerald W. , Heller Brown Joan
Published: January 2015

Rationale:

Sustained activation of Gαq transgenic (Gq) signaling during pressure overload causes cardiac hypertrophy that ultimately progresses to dilated cardiomyopathy. The molecular events that drive hypertrophy decompensation are incompletely understood. Ca
2+
/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II δ (CaMKIIδ) is activated downstream of Gq, and overexpression of Gq and CaMKIIδ recapitulates hypertrophy decompensation.

Objective:

To determine whether CaMKIIδ contributes to hypertrophy decompensation provoked by Gq.

Methods and Results:

Compared with Gq mice, compound Gq/CaMKIIδ knockout mice developed a similar degree of cardiac hypertrophy but exhibited significantly improved left ventricular function, less cardiac fibrosis and cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and fewer ventricular arrhythmias. Markers of oxidative stress were elevated in mitochondria from Gq versus wild-type mice and respiratory rates were lower; these changes in mitochondrial function were restored by CaMKIIδ deletion. Gq-mediated increases in mitochondrial oxidative stress, compromised membrane potential, and cell death were recapitulated in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes infected with constitutively active Gq and attenuated by CaMKII inhibition. Deep RNA sequencing revealed altered expression of 41 mitochondrial genes in Gq hearts, with normalization of ≈40% of these genes by CaMKIIδ deletion. Uncoupling protein 3 was markedly downregulated in Gq or by Gq expression in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes and reversed by CaMKIIδ deletion or inhibition, as was peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor α. The protective effects of CaMKIIδ inhibition on reactive oxygen species generation and cell death were abrogated by knock down of uncoupling protein 3. Conversely, restoration of uncoupling protein 3 expression attenuated reactive oxygen species generation and cell death induced by CaMKIIδ. Our in vivo studies further demonstrated that pressure overload induced decreases in peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor α and uncoupling protein 3, increases in mitochondrial protein oxidation, and hypertrophy decompensation, which were attenuated by CaMKIIδ deletion.

Conclusions:

Mitochondrial gene reprogramming induced by CaMKIIδ emerges as an important mechanism contributing to mitotoxicity in decompensating hypertrophy.
Transitions of Care in Heart Failure
Authors: Albert Nancy M. , Barnason Susan , Deswal Anita , Hernandez Adrian , Kociol Robb , Lee Eunyoung , Paul Sara , Ryan Catherine J. , White-Williams Connie
Published: January 2015

In patients with heart failure (HF), use of 30-day rehospitalization as a healthcare metric and increased pressure to provide value-based care compel healthcare providers to improve efficiency and to use an integrated care approach. Transition programs are being used to achieve goals. Transition of care in the context of HF management refers to individual interventions and programs with multiple activities that are designed to improve shifts or transitions from one setting to the next, most often from hospital to home. As transitional care programs become the new normal for patients with chronic HF, it is important to understand the current state of the science of transitional care, as discussed in the available research literature. Of transitional care reports, there was much heterogeneity in research designs, methods, study aims, and program targets, or they were not well described. Often, programs used bundled interventions, making it difficult to discuss the efficiency and effectiveness of specific interventions. Thus, further HF transition care research is needed to ensure best practices related to economically and clinically effective and feasible transition interventions that can be broadly applicable. This statement provides an overview of the complexity of HF management and includes patient, hospital, and healthcare provider barriers to understanding end points that best reflect clinical benefits and to achieving optimal clinical outcomes. The statement describes transitional care interventions and outcomes and discusses implications and recommendations for research and clinical practice to enhance patient-centered outcomes.
MicroRNA-200c Contributes to Injury From Transient Focal Cerebral Ischemia by Targeting Reelin
Authors: Stary Creed M. , Xu Lijun , Sun Xiaoyun , Ouyang Yi-Bing , White Robin E. , Leong Jason , Li John , Xiong Xiaoxing , Giffard Rona G.
Published: January 2015

Background and Purpose—

MicroRNA (miR)-200c increases rapidly in the brain after transient cerebral ischemia but its role in poststroke brain injury is unclear. Reelin, a regulator of neuronal migration and synaptogenesis, is a predicted target of miR-200c. We hypothesized that miR-200c contributes to injury from transient cerebral ischemia by targeting reelin.

Methods—

Brain infarct volume, neurological score and levels of miR-200c, reelin mRNA, and reelin protein were assessed in mice subjected to 1 hour of middle cerebral artery occlusion with or without intracerebroventricular infusion of miR-200c antagomir, mimic, or mismatch control. Direct targeting of reelin by miR-200c was assessed in vitro by dual luciferase assay and immunoblot.

Results—

Pretreatment with miR-200c antagomir decreased post–middle cerebral artery occlusion brain levels of miR-200c, resulting in a significant reduction in infarct volume and neurological deficit. Changes in brain levels of miR-200c inversely correlated with reelin protein expression. Direct targeting of the Reln 3′ untranslated region by miR-200c was verified with dual luciferase assay. Inhibition of miR-200c resulted in an increase in cell survival subsequent to in vitro oxidative injury. This effect was blocked by knockdown of reelin mRNA, whereas application of reelin protein afforded protection.

Conclusions—

These findings suggest that the poststroke increase in miR-200c contributes to brain cell death by inhibiting reelin expression, and that reducing poststroke miR-200c is a potential target to mitigate stroke-induced brain injury.
Cysteine-Sparing CADASIL Mutations in
NOTCH3
Show Proaggregatory Properties In Vitro
Authors: Wollenweber Frank Arne , Hanecker Patrizia , Bayer-Karpinska Anna , Malik Rainer , Bäzner Hansjörg , Moreton Fiona , Muir Keith W. , Müller Susanna , Giese Armin , Opherk Christian , Dichgans Martin , Haffner Christof , Duering Marco
Published: January 2015

Background and Purpose—

Mutations in
NOTCH3
cause cerebral autosomal–dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), the most common monogenic cause of stroke and vascular dementia. Misfolding and aggregation of NOTCH3 proteins triggered by cysteine-affecting mutations are considered to be the key disease mechanisms. However, the significance of cysteine-sparing mutations is still debated.

Methods—

We studied a family with inherited small vessel disease by standardized medical history, clinical examination, MRI, ultrastructural analysis of skin biopsies, and Sanger sequencing of all
NOTCH3
exons. In addition, we performed in vitro characterization of
NOTCH3
variants using recombinant protein fragments and a single-particle aggregation assay.

Results—

We identified a novel cysteine-sparing
NOTCH3
mutation (D80G) in 4 family members, which was absent in a healthy sibling. All mutation carriers exhibited a CADASIL typical brain imaging and clinical phenotype, whereas skin biopsy showed inconsistent results. In vitro aggregation behavior of the D80G mutant was similar compared with cysteine-affecting mutations. This was reproduced with cysteine-sparing mutations from previously reported families having a phenotype consistent with CADASIL.

Conclusions—

Our findings support the view that cysteine-sparing mutations, such as D80G, might cause CADASIL with a phenotype largely indistinguishable from cysteine mutations. The in vitro aggregation analysis of atypical
NOTCH3
mutations offers novel insights into pathomechanisms and might represent a tool for estimating their clinical significance.
A new record of the subfamily Isometopinae (Heteroptera: Miridae) from the Korean Peninsula
Authors: JUNG SUNGHOON , DUWAL RAM K. , LEE SEUNGHWAN
Published: January 2015

The subfamily Isometopinae (Heteroptera: Miridae) is recognized for the first time in the Korean Peninsula based on a single female specimen, Isometopus amurensis Kerzhner. Herein, diagnosis of a female specimen, illustration of female genitalia, and habitus figures with biological notes are provided.
Ants with Attitude: Australian Jack-jumpers of the Myrmecia pilosula species complex, with descriptions of four new species (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Myrmeciinae)
Authors: TAYLOR ROBERT W.
Published: January 2015

The six known “Jack-jumper species Myrmecia pilosula Fr. Smith 1858, M. croslandi Taylor 1991, M. banksi, M. haskinsorum, M. imaii and M. impaternata spp.n. are reviewed, illustrated and keyed. Myrmecia imaii is known only from southwest Western Australia, the others variously from southeastern Australia and Tasmania. These taxa were previously confused under the name M. pilosula (for which a lectotype is designated). Previous cytogenetical findings, which contributed importantly to current taxonomic understanding, are summarized for each species. Eastern and Western geographical races of the widespread M. pilosula are recognized. Myrmecia croslandi is one of only two eukaryote animals known to possess a single pair of chromosomes (2n=2 3 or 4). Myrmecia impaternata is evidentially an allodiploid (n=5 or 14, 2n=19) sperm-dependent gynogenetic hybrid between M. banksi and an element of the eastern race of M. pilosula, or their immediate ancestry. The sting-injected venom of these ants can induce sometimes fatal anaphylaxis in sensitive humans.
Wave Boundary Layer Turbulence over Surface Waves in a Strongly Forced Condition
Authors: Hara Tetsu , Sullivan Peter P.
Published: January 2015

Accurate predictions of the sea state–dependent air–sea momentum flux require a thorough understanding of the wave boundary layer turbulence over surface waves. A set of momentum and energy equations is derived to formulate and analyze wave boundary layer turbulence. The equations are written in wave-following coordinates, and all variables are decomposed into horizontal mean, wave fluctuation, and turbulent fluctuation. The formulation defines the wave-induced stress as a sum of the wave fluctuation stress (because of the fluctuating velocity components) and a pressure stress (pressure acting on a tilted surface). The formulations can be constructed with different choices of mapping. Next, a large-eddy simulation result for wind over a sinusoidal wave train under a strongly forced condition is analyzed using the proposed formulation. The result clarifies how surface waves increase the effective roughness length and the drag coefficient. Specifically, the enhanced wave-induced stress close to the water surface reduces the turbulent stress (satisfying the momentum budget). The reduced turbulent stress is correlated with the reduced viscous dissipation rate of the turbulent kinetic energy. The latter is balanced by the reduced mean wind shear (satisfying the energy budget), which causes the equivalent surface roughness to increase. Interestingly, there is a small region farther above where the turbulent stress, dissipation rate, and mean wind shear are all enhanced. The observed strong correlation between the turbulent stress and the dissipation rate suggests that existing turbulence closure models that parameterize the latter based on the former are reasonably accurate.
From Foe to Friend
Authors: de Lange Deborah E. , Armanios Daniel , Delgado-Ceballos Javier , Sandhu Sukhbir
Published: January 2015

The relationship between multinational corporations (MNCs) and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) on social and environmental issues sometimes evolves from being antagonistic to cooperative. To explore how MNCs and NGOs are able to cooperate as friends rather than remain foes, this conceptual research drawing on complexity theory examines a proposed process of mutual adaptation occurring through more flexible semi-structures that support the evolution of (a) joint strategic responses enabled by future gazing, (b) communication systems that facilitate joint strategic responses, and (c) coordinated, timed-based change that supports joint strategic responses. The article provides illustrations from MNC–NGO collaborations. Conclusions are that mutual adaptation and cooperative resolutions are more likely when organizations either share these capabilities or compensate for each other’s shortcomings, and make trade-offs that align with joint strategic objectives. This article contributes to complexity theory and the NGO–MNC literature by exploring how interorganizational cooperative behavior incorporates mutual adaptation so that more sustainable practices are implemented and continuously improved upon by MNCs.
Constructing and Validating a Multiple-Indicator Construct of Economic Hardship in a National Sample of Adolescents with Disabilities
Authors: Murray Christopher , Doren Bonnie , Gau Jeff M. , Zvoch Keith , Seeley John R.
Published: January 2015

The purpose of the current study was to develop a multi-indicator construct of economic hardship among adolescents with disabilities ( N = 9,230) participating in the National Longitudinal Transition Study–2, the largest, most comprehensive investigation of adolescents with disabilities ever conducted. Five theoretically relevant indicators (i.e., family income, head-of-household education, head-of-household employment, participation in social programs, and lack of resources) contributed to the formation of an economic hardship latent construct. Scores on this factor were validated through associations with demographic, tangible-resource, school, and family factors. The implications of these findings for continued efforts to understand and respond to economic hardship among adolescents with disabilities are discussed.
Effects of a Multitier Support System on Calculation, Word Problem, and Prealgebraic Performance Among At-Risk Learners
Authors: Powell Sarah R. , Fuchs Lynn S. , Cirino Paul T. , Fuchs Douglas , Compton Donald L. , Changas Paul C.
Published: January 2015

The focus of the present study was enhancing word problem and calculation achievement in ways that support prealgebraic thinking among second-grade students at risk for mathematics difficulty. Intervention relied on a multitier support system (i.e., responsiveness to intervention, or RTI) in which at-risk students participate in general classroom instruction and receive supplementary small-group tutoring. Participants were 265 students in 110 classrooms in 25 schools. Teachers were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: calculation RTI, word problem RTI, or business-as-usual control. Intervention lasted 17 weeks. Multilevel modeling indicated that calculation RTI improved calculation but not word problem outcomes, word problem RTI enhanced proximal word problem outcomes as well as performance on some calculation outcomes, and word problem RTI provided a stronger route than calculation RTI to prealgebraic knowledge.
Effect of fiber volume content on electromechanical behavior of strain-hardening steel-fiber-reinforced cementitious composites
Authors: Song Jiandong , Nguyen Duy Liem , Manathamsombat Chatchai , KIM Dong Joo
Published: January 2015

This research investigated the effect of fiber volume content on the electromechanical behavior of strain-hardening steel-fiber-reinforced cementitious composites under direct tension. There is strong correlation between the change of electrical resistivity and the tensile response of strain-hardening steel-fiber-reinforced cementitious composites: the electrical resistivity of strain-hardening steel-fiber-reinforced cementitious composites clearly decreased during strain hardening as the tensile strain of them increased. The electrical conductivity, tensile resistance, and damage-sensing capacity of strain-hardening steel-fiber-reinforced cementitious composites were generally increased as the volume content of twisted steel fibers added in a mortar matrix increased from 0.0 to 2.0%. The strain-hardening steel-fiber-reinforced cementitious composites with fiber content more than 1% by volume produced high damage-sensing capacity with high nominal gauge factor: absolute value over 150. Besides, the addition of carbon black or ground granulated blast furnace slag in mortar matrices significantly reduced the electrical resistivity but slightly enhanced the damage-sensing capability of strain-hardening steel-fiber-reinforced cementitious composites.
Compression Induces Ephrin-A2 in PDL Fibroblasts via c-fos
Authors: Sen S. , Diercke K. , Zingler S. , Lux C. J. , Erber R.
Published: January 2015

Ephrin-A2–EphA2 and ephrin-B2–EphB4 interactions have been implicated in the regulation of bone remodeling. We previously demonstrated a potential role for members of the Eph-ephrin family of receptor tyrosine kinases for bone remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement: compression-dependent upregulation of ephrin-A2 in fibroblasts of the periodontal ligament (PDL) attenuated osteogenesis in osteoblasts of the alveolar bone. However, factors affecting the regulation of ephrin-A2 expression upon the application of compressive forces remained unclear. Here, we report a mechano-dependent pathway of ephrin-A2 induction in PDL fibroblasts (PDLFs) involving extracellular signal–regulated kinases (ERK) 1/2 and c-fos. PDLF subjected to compressive forces (30.3 g/cm2) upregulated c-fos and ephrin-A2 mRNA and protein expression and displayed increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Inhibition of the MAP kinase kinase (MEK)/ERK1/2 pathway using the specific MEK inhibitor U0126 significantly reduced ephrin-A2 messenger RNA upregulation upon compression. Silencing of c-fos using a small interfering RNA approach led to a significant inhibition of ephrin-A2 induction upon the application of compressive forces. Interestingly, ephrin-A2 stimulation of PDLF induced c-fos expression and led also to the induction of ephrin-A2 expression. Using a reporter gene construct in murine 3T3 cells, we found that ephrin-A2 was able to stimulate serum response element (SRE)–dependent luciferase activity. As the regulation of c-fos is SRE dependent, ephrin-A2 might induce c-fos via SRE activation. Taken together, we provide evidence for an ERK1/2- and c-fos–dependent regulation of ephrin-A2 in compressed PDLF and suggest a novel pathway for ephrin-A2 induction emanating from ephrin-A2 itself. We showed previously that ephrin-A2 at compression sites might contribute to tooth movement by inhibiting osteogenic differentiation. The regulatory pathway of ephrin-A2 induction during tooth movement identified in this study might be accessible for pharmacological interventions.