bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous thermal ablation for primary hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chinnaratha Mohamed A , Chuang Ming‐yu Anthony , Fraser Robert JL , Woodman Richard J , Wigg Alan J
Published: June 2015

Background and Aim:

Percutaneous thermal ablation using radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) are both widely available curative treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite significant advances, it remains unclear which modality results in better outcomes. This meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) and observational studies was undertaken to compare the techniques in terms of effectiveness and safety.

Methods:

Electronic reference databases (Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Central) were searched between January 1980 and May 2014 for human studies comparing RFA and MWA. The primary outcome was the risk of local tumor progression (LTP). Secondary outcomes were complete ablation (CA), overall survival, and major adverse events (AE). The ORs were combined across studies using the random‐effects model.

Results:

Ten studies (two prospective and eight retrospective) were included, and the overall LTP rate was 13.6% (176/1298). There was no difference in LTP rates between RFA and MWA [OR (95% CI): 1.01(0.67–1.50), P = 0.9]. The CA rate, 1‐ and 3‐year overall survival and major AE were similar between the two modalities (P > 0.05 for all). In subgroup analysis, there was no difference in LTP rates according to study quality, but LTP rates were lower with MWA for treatment of larger tumors [1.88(1.10–3.23), P = 0.02]. There was no significant publication bias or inter‐study heterogeneity (I2 < 50% and P > 0.1) observed in any of the measured outcomes.

Conclusion:

Overall, both RFA and MWA are equally effective and safe, but MWA may be more effective compared to RFA in preventing LTP when treating larger tumors. Well‐designed, larger, multicentre RCTs are required to confirm these findings.
Effects of a Multimodal Exercise Program on Physical Function, Falls, and Injuries in Older Women: A 2‐Year Community‐Based, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Patil Radhika , Uusi‐Rasi Kirsti , Tokola Kari , Karinkanta Saija , Kannus Pekka , Sievänen Harri
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To investigate the effects of multimodal supervised exercise on physical functioning, falls, and related injuries in older women.

Design

Two‐year randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Tampere, Finland.

Participants

Women aged 70 to 80 who had fallen in the previous year (n = 409).

Intervention

Participants were randomly assigned to an exercise or control group (ClinicalTrial.gov NCT00986466). Exercisers participated in group exercise classes twice a week for 12 months and once a week for the subsequent 12 months and home exercises. Controls maintained their current physical activity.

Measurements

Physical functioning assessed at baseline and at 6‐month intervals during the intervention. Falls and related injuries monitored with fall diaries.

Results

Intention‐to‐treat analyses showed that exercise led to significant improvements in physical functioning. Leg strength differed significantly between the groups (mean change: 14.1%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 8.0 to 20.2 in exercisers; 1.6%, 95% CI = −4.5 to 7.7 in controls; P < .001). Chair stand time also differed significantly between groups (7.4%, 95% CI 3.8 to 10.8% in exercisers; 2.4%, 95% CI = −1.6 to 6.2) in controls; P = .02). Between‐group differences were significant for fast walking speed (P = .003) and probability of completing the backward walking test (P < .001), favoring exercisers. Timed Up‐and‐Go and grip strength did not differ between groups. There was no difference in the total falls incidence rate ratio (IRR = 1.0, 95% CI = 0.79 to 1.26), but exercisers were less likely to have medically attended injurious falls (IRR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.27 to 0.78; P = .004).

Conclusion

Twenty‐four months of multimodal exercise enhanced physical functioning in women aged 70 to 80 with a history of falls. Although the total number of falls was not lower than in controls, the rate of medically attended injurious falls was more than 50% lower.
Effect of Structured Physical Activity on Sleep–Wake Behaviors in Sedentary Elderly Adults with Mobility Limitations
Authors: Vaz Fragoso Carlos A. , Miller Michael E. , King Abby C. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Liu Christine K. , Myers Valerie H. , Nadkarni Neelesh K. , Pahor Marco , Spring Bonnie J. , Gill Thomas M. ,   the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Study Group
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of structured physical activity on sleep–wake behaviors in sedentary community‐dwelling elderly adults with mobility limitations.

Design

Multicenter, randomized trial of moderate‐intensity physical activity versus health education, with sleep–wake behaviors prespecified as a tertiary outcome over a planned intervention period ranging from 24 to 30 months.

Setting

Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Study.

Participants

Community‐dwelling persons aged 70 to 89 who were initially sedentary and had a Short Physical Performance Battery score less than 10 (N = 1,635).

Measurements

Sleep–wake behaviors were evaluated using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) (≥8 defined insomnia), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) (≥10 defined daytime drowsiness), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (>5 defined poor sleep quality) administered at baseline and 6, 18, and 30 months.

Results

The randomized groups were similar in terms of baseline demographic variables, including mean age (79) and sex (67% female). Structured physical activity resulted in a significantly lower likelihood of having poor sleep quality (adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for PSQI >5 = 0.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.68–0.94), including fewer new cases (aOR for PSQI >5 = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.54–0.89), than health education but not in resolution of prevalent cases (aOR for PSQI ≤5 = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.90–1.43). No significant intervention effects were observed for the ISI or ESS.

Conclusion

Structured physical activity resulted in a lower likelihood of developing poor sleep quality (PSQI >5) over the intervention period than health education but had no effect on prevalent cases of poor sleep quality or on sleep–wake behaviors evaluated using the ISI or ESS. These results suggest that the benefit of physical activity in this sample was preventive and limited to sleep–wake behaviors evaluated using the PSQI.
Determinants of timing and amplitude in the plant general stress response
Authors: Bjornson Marta , Dandekar Abhaya , Dehesh Katayoon
Published: June 2015

Plants have evolved intricate signaling cascades to rapidly and effectively respond to biotic and abiotic challenges. The precise timing of these responses enables optimal resource reallocation to maintain the balance between stress adaptation and growth. Thus, an in‐depth understanding of the immediate and long‐term mechanisms regulating resource allocation is critical in deciphering how plants withstand environmental challenges. To date however, understanding of this tradeoff has focused on the amplitude of long‐term responses, rather than the timing of rapid stress responses. This review presents current knowledge on kinetics of secondary messengers involved in regulation of rapid and general stress responses, followed by rapid stress responsive transduction machinery, and finally the transcriptional response of a functional general stress responsive cis‐element. Within this context we discuss the role of timing of initial peak activation and later oscillating peak responses, and explore hormonal and stress signaling crosstalk confounding greater understanding of these cascades.
Novel human ABCC9/SUR2 brain‐expressed transcripts and an eQTL relevant to hippocampal sclerosis of aging
Authors: Nelson Peter T. , Wang Wang‐Xia , Wilfred Bernard R. , Wei Angela , Dimayuga James , Huang Qingwei , Ighodaro Eseosa , Artiushin Sergey , Fardo David W.
Published: June 2015

ABCC9 genetic polymorphisms are associated with increased risk for various human diseases including hippocampal sclerosis of aging. The main goals of this study were 1 > to detect the ABCC9 variants and define the specific 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) for each variant in human brain, and 2 > to determine whether a polymorphism (rs704180) associated with risk for hippocampal sclerosis of aging pathology is also associated with variation in ABCC9 transcript expression and/or splicing. Rapid amplification of ABCC9 cDNA ends (3′RACE) provided evidence of novel 3′ UTR portions of ABCC9 in human brain. In silico and experimental studies were performed focusing on the single nucleotide polymorphism, rs704180. Analyses from multiple databases, focusing on rs704180 only, indicated that this risk allele is a local expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL). Analyses of RNA from human brains showed increased ABCC9 transcript levels in individuals with the risk genotype, corresponding with enrichment for a shorter 3′ UTR which may be more stable than variants with the longer 3′ UTR. MicroRNA transfection experiments yielded results compatible with the hypothesis that miR‐30c causes down‐regulation of SUR2 transcripts with the longer 3′ UTR. Thus we report evidence of complex ABCC9 genetic regulation in brain, which may be of direct relevance to human disease.

image

ABCC9 gene variants are associated with increased risk for hippocampal sclerosis of aging (HS‐Aging – a prevalent brain disease with symptoms that mimic Alzheimer's disease). We describe novel ABCC9 variants in human brain, corresponding to altered 3'UTR length, which could lead to targeting by miR‐30c. We also determined that the HS‐Aging risk mutation is associated with variation in ABCC9 transcript expression.
The Val30Met familial amyloid polyneuropathy specific Rasch‐built overall disability scale (FAP‐RODS©)
Authors: Pruppers Mariëlle H. J. , Merkies Ingemar S. J. , Faber Catharina G. , Da Silva Ana M. , Costa Vanessa , Coelho Teresa
Published: June 2015

Familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) is a chronic debilitating multi‐organic disorder, mainly assessed using ordinal‐based impairment measures. To date, no outcome measure at the activity and participation level has been constructed in FAP. The current study aimed to design an interval activity/participation scale for FAP through Rasch methodology. A preliminary FAP Rasch‐built overall disability scale (pre‐FAP‐RODS) containing 146 activity/participation items was assessed twice (interval: 2–4 week; test‐retest reliability) in 248 patients with Val30Met FAP examined in Porto, Portugal, of which 65.7% have received liver transplantation. An ordinal‐based 24‐item FAP‐symptoms inventory questionnaire (FAP‐SIQ) was also assessed (validity purposes). The pre‐FAP‐RODS and FAP‐SIQ data were subjected to Rasch analyses. The pre‐FAP‐RODS did not meet model's expectations. On the basis of requirements such as misfit statistics, differential item functioning, and local dependency, items were systematically removed until a final 34‐item FAP‐RODS© was constructed fulfilling all Rasch requirements. Acceptable reliability/validity scores were demonstrated. In conclusion, the 34‐item FAP‐RODS© is a disease‐specific interval measure suitable for detecting activity and participation restrictions in patients with FAP. The use of the FAP‐RODS© is recommended for future international clinical trials in patients with Val30Met FAP determining its responsiveness and its cross‐cultural validation. Its expansion to other forms of FAP should also be focus of future clinical studies.
Outcome measures in MMN revisited: further improvement needed
Authors: Pruppers Mariëlle H. J. , Draak Thomas H. P. , Vanhoutte Els K. , Van der Pol W‐Ludo , Gorson Kenneth C. , Léger Jean‐Marc , Nobile‐Orazio Eduardo , Lewis Richard. A. , van den Berg Leonard H. , Faber Catharina G. , Merkies Ingemar S. J. ,   on behalf of the PeriNomS study group
Published: June 2015

The objectives of this study were to provide an overview of the outcome measures (OMs) applied in clinical trials in multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and to determine the responsiveness of a core set of selected OMs as part of the peripheral neuropathy outcome measures standardization (PeriNomS) study. The following OMs were serially applied in 26 patients with newly diagnosed or relapsing MMN, receiving intravenous immunoglobulin (assessments: T0/T3/T12 months): 14 muscle pairs MRC (Medical Research Council) scale, the Neuropathy Impairment Scale motor‐subset, a self‐evaluation scale, grip strength, and MMN‐RODS© (Rasch‐built overall disability scale). All data, except the grip strength, were subjected to Rasch analyses before determining responsiveness. For grip strength, responsiveness was examined using a combined anchor‐ (SF‐36 question‐2) and distribution‐based (½ × SD) minimum clinically important difference (MCID) techniques, determining the proportion of patients exceeding both the identified cut‐offs. For the remaining scales, the magnitude of change for each patient on each scale was determined using the MCID related to the individual SE (responder definition: MCID‐SE ≥ 1.96). Overall, a great assortment of measures has been used in MMN trials with different responsiveness definitions. For the selected OMs, responsiveness was poor and only seen in one fourth to one third of the patients, the grip strength being more responsive. Despite the efforts taken to standardize outcome assessment, further clinimetric responsiveness studies are needed in MMN.
Comparing the NIS vs. MRC and INCAT sensory scale through Rasch analyses
Authors: Draak Thomas H. P. , Vanhoutte Els K. , van Nes Sonja I. , Gorson Kenneth C. , Van der Pol W.‐Ludo , Notermans Nicolette C. , Nobile‐Orazio Eduardo , Lewis Richard A. , Léger Jean‐Marc , Van den Bergh Peter Y. K. , Lauria Giuseppe , Bril Vera , Katzberg Hans , Lunn Michael P. T. , Pouget Jean , van der Kooi Anneke J. , Hahn Angelika F. , van den Berg Leonard H. , van Doorn Pieter A. , Cornblath David R. , Faber Catharina G. , Merkies Ingemar S. J. ,   on behalf of the PeriNomS Study Group
Published: June 2015

We performed
a comparison between Neuropathy Impairment Scale‐sensory (NISs) vs. the modified Inflammatory Neuropathy Cause and Treatment sensory scale (mISS), and NIS‐motor vs. the Medical Research Council sum score in patients with Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP), and IgM monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance‐related polyneuropathy (MGUSP). The ordinal data were subjected to Rasch analyses, creating Rasch‐transformed (RT)‐intervals for all measures. Comparison between measures was based on validity/reliability with an emphasis on responsiveness (using the patient's level of change related to the individually obtained varying SE for minimum clinically important difference). Eighty stable patients (GBS: 30, CIDP: 30, and MGUSP: 20) were assessed twice (entry: two observers; 2–4 weeks later: one observer), and 137 newly diagnosed or relapsing patients (GBS: 55, CIDP: 59, and IgM‐MGUSP: 23) were serially examined with 12 months follow‐up. Data modifications were needed to improve model fit for all measures. The sensory and motor scales demonstrated approximately equal and acceptable validity and reliability scores. Responsiveness scores were poor but slightly higher in RT‐mISS compared to RT‐NISs. Responsiveness was equal for the RT‐motor scales, but higher in GBS compared to CIDP; responsiveness was poor in patients with MGUSP, suggesting a longer duration of follow‐up in the latter group of patients.
Characterization and Pathogenicity of Phomopsis theicola Anamorph of Diaporthe foeniculina Causing Stem and Shoot Cankers on Sweet Chestnut in Italy
Authors: Annesi Tiziana , Luongo Laura , Vitale Salvatore , Galli Massimo , Belisario Alessandra
Published: June 2015

In March 2014, an outbreak of shoot cankers was observed on grafted Castanea sativa plants in a glasshouse in central Italy. Morphological characteristics led to the identification of isolates of Phomopsis recovered from cankered stems and shoots. Based on the morphological characteristics of colony appearance, shape of conidia and conidiomata as well as sequences of internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS), actin (ACT) and translation elongation factor (TEF‐1α), the fungus was identified as Phomopsis theicola/Diaporthe foeniculina. Pathogenicity test showed that P. theicola isolates were pathogenic to C. sativa when artificially inoculated, reproducing the symptoms originally observed. Koch's postulates were fulfilled by re‐isolating the pathogen. This is the first report of P. theicola/D. foeniculina causing stem and shoot cankers and dieback on C. sativa in Italy or elsewhere.
Mucopolysaccharidosis VII in a Cat Caused by 2 Adjacent Missense Mutations in the GUSB Gene
Authors: Wang P. , Sorenson J. , Strickland S. , Mingus C. , Haskins M.E. , Giger U.
Published: June 2015

Background

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are common lysosomal storage disorders causing typically progressive skeletal and ocular abnormalities.

Objectives

To describe the clinic features, metabolic profile and a unique mutation in a domestic shorthair (DSH) kitten with MPS VII.

Animals

Affected kitten and 80 healthy cats.

Methods

Serum lysosomal enzyme activities and urinary glycosaminoglycan (GAG) accumulation were assessed. Exons of the β‐glucuronidase gene (GUSB) were sequenced from genomic DNA and genotyping was conducted.

Results

A 3‐month‐old DSH cat was presented for stunted growth, paresis, facial dysmorphia, multiple skeletal deformities, and corneal opacities. Evaluation of blood smears disclosed metachromatic granules in leukocytes and a urinary mucopolysaccharide spot test was positive. The proband had no GUSB activity but normal or increased activities for other lysosomal enzymes. Sequencing of the GUSB gene from the proband and comparison to the sequence of 2 healthy cats and the published feline genome sequence demonstrated 2 unique single base transitions (c.1421T>G and c.1424C>T) in exon 9, altering 2 adjacent codons (p.Ser475Ala and p.Arg476Trp). These amino acid changes are in a highly conserved domain of the GUSB protein and nontolerable to maintain function. Moreover, the p.Arg476Trp mutation previously has been identified in human patients. None of the other clinically healthy cats had these mutations.

Conclusions and Clinic Importance

The diagnostic approach to MPS disorders is delineated. This is only the second mutation known to cause MPS VII in cats. Similarly, 2 different mutations have been described in MPS VII dogs, thereby showing the molecular heterogeneity of MPS VII in companion animals.
The Fiqh of Revolution and the Arab Spring: Secondary Segmentation as a Trend in Islamic Legal Doctrine
Authors: Nakissa Aria
Published: June 2015

This article examines how the events of the Arab Spring have helped give birth to a new juristic subfield known as the “Fiqh of Revolution”. The Fiqh of Revolution supplies legal guidance on peaceful rebellion under contemporary conditions, addressing itself to a 21st century world order shaped by new internet media and post‐Cold War international human rights conventions. I argue that besides being an important source of influence for Islamist movements, the Fiqh of Revolution also illustrates broader trends in contemporary Islamic legal thought. In particular, I draw attention to the process of “secondary segmentation”, whereby new legal subfields are created for the purpose of justifying and regimenting the use of utilitarian modes of juristic reasoning. Although “secondary segmentation” is an emergent trend, I suggest that it has important implications for the future evolution of Islamic legal doctrine.
Varicella‐zoster virus encephalomyelitis with a prominent demyelinating component
Authors: Berth Sarah , Carbunar Olimpia , Yang Ning Sarah , Fredericks Brian , Lipton Howard L. , Valyi‐Nagy Tibor
Published: June 2015

The histopathologic presentation of varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) infection of the central nervous system is varied and is not well understood. Here we report a case of VZV encephalomyelitis with prominent demyelinating pathology in a patient with a history of follicular lymphoma treated with allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The patient presented with waxing and waning bilateral limb weakness and mental status changes. MRI showed leptomeningeal, peripheral spinal cord and periventricular cerebral white matter lesions in the brain, and polymerase chain reaction on cerebrospinal fluid detected VZV DNA. The patient expired from developing atrial fibrillation that rapidly progressed to ventricular fibrillation 10 days after admission to our hospital. Autopsy revealed macrophage‐rich areas of demyelination in the spinal cord and cerebrum with relative preservation of axons associated with inclusion bodies and positive immunostaining for VZV. This case represents a rare example of VZV encephalomyelitis presenting with a predominantly demyelinating, “multiple sclerosis‐like” pathology. The clinical and histopathologic findings and relevant literature are presented and discussed.
Testing for Granger Causality in Moments
Authors: Chen Yi‐Ting
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we consider a generalized approach which is flexibly applicable to testing Granger causality in various moments and in both the full‐sample and out‐of‐sample contexts. We further use this approach to establish a class of cross‐correlation tests for financial time series analysis, and show the advantages of this class of tests in unifying and generalizing Box–Pierce‐type Granger causality tests. We also conduct a Monte Carlo simulation to show the validity of our tests, and provide an empirical example to demonstrate the flexibility of our tests in exploring various types of Granger causality.
Evaluating the Validity and Reliability of the Financial Condition Index for Local Governments
Authors: Clark Benjamin Y.
Published: June 2015

Understanding the financial condition of local governments is important for public managers and elected officials as they work to align revenues with p ublic demands for services, while maintaining financial solvency. This task becomes even more important when the economic and financial environment, over which local officials have little to no control, is collapsing around them. This article seeks to expand the literature of measuring financial condition of local governments by testing the validity and reliability of the Financial Condition Index (FCI). The FCI is a framework for evaluating financial condition that was initially developed by Groves, Godsey, and Shulman and later applied in US state‐level studies by a number of scholars. The results from this article cast serious doubt on the applicability of using the FCI, and the four associated solvency dimensions, as an appropriate methodology for evaluating local government financial condition.
From the Field: It's Always Something: Maryland's Path through the “Great Recession”
Authors: Deschenaux Warren G. , Juppe David B.
Published: June 2015

Like most states, Maryland experienced a significant revenue decline following the “Great Recession” of 2008. The State balanced its annual budgets using a combination of spending cuts, new revenues, use of general fund balance and reserves, modifications to State–local government revenue and spending relationships, and transfers from various dedicated special fund balances. During this period, states also received generous federal support via the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. This case study differs in two ways from previous analyses of state budget balancing actions during times of fiscal distress. First, it demonstrates how elected officials established and implemented action to preserve spending priorities; chiefly relating to the social safety net and primary/secondary education. Secondly, it documents the combination of budget balancing actions adopted over a multi‐year period and shows the extent to which each type of action was relied upon. Future study can build upon this research, to show to what extent other states relied upon similar or divergent measures when balancing their budgets in post‐recessionary periods. Along with other states, Maryland was substantially affected by the so called “Great Recession.” But unlike many other places, Maryland did not substantially curtail employment or services. In particular, Maryland resisted substantial reductions in spending on health and education even after federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 support was exhausted, while maintaining a 5 percent balance in its Rainy Day Fund. This entailed a combination of spending restraint, balance transfers, rededication of revenues, health provider taxes, gambling, and higher taxes. This paper describes the actions taken each year, and illustrates how spending priorities were protected to the extent possible.
Melanopsins: Localization and Phototransduction in Xenopus laevis Melanophores
Authors: Moraes Maria Nathália , Ramos Bruno C. , Poletini Maristela O. , Castrucci Ana Maria L.
Published: June 2015

Xenopus laevis melanophores express two melanopsins, Opn4x and Opn4m. We identified Opn4x immunoreactivity throughout the melanophore cytoplasm and in the cell membrane. The strongest immunopositivity for Opn4m was observed in the nuclear region, and no labeling was seen in the cell membrane. This immunodistribution suggests Opn4x as the functional photopigment. In X. laevis melanophores, light triggers pigment dispersion and clock gene induction at blue wavelength, which maximally activates melanopsins. Although light stimulation activates phospholipase C and increases intracellular calcium and cGMP, this nucleotide does not participate in photo‐induced melanin dispersion. Nevertheless, the guanylyl cyclase activator YC‐1 stimulates Per1 expression, similar to blue light pulse, and the use of pharmacological inhibitors indicates the participation of the phosphoinositide cascade. Since cAMP levels does not change after blue light stimulation, the cAMP/PKA pathway most probably is not involved in blue light induction of Per in X. laevis melanophores. Given the localization of melanopsins and our pharmacological data, the light‐induced clock gene expression seems to be mediated by Opn4x through phosphoinositide cascade and rise in cGMP, thus leading to the reset of the biological clock in our model.
Temperature modulation and the presence of C20 fatty acids in mono‐ and digalactosyldiacylglycerol of Euglena gracilis and Lepocinclis acus: A modern interpretation of euglenid galactolipids using positive‐ion electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry
Authors: Craig Evan M. , Dahmen Jeremy L. , Leblond Jeffrey D.
Published: June 2015

Mono‐ and digalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG and DGDG, respectively) are important galactolipids that comprise photosynthetic membranes in almost all photosynthetic organisms. Intact forms of MGDG and DGDG of Euglena gracilis and Lepocinclis acus, two example euglenids with secondary plastids of green algal origin, were elucidated with fatty acid regiochemistry via positive‐ion electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry at two growth temperatures. At 20°C, E. gracilis and L. acus produced predominantly 18:3/16:4 (sn‐1/sn‐2) MGDG, whereas at 30°C this was supplanted by 18:2/16:2 MGDG. At both temperatures were also observed a variety of other MGDG and DGDG forms, including C20 fatty acid‐containing forms not expected in a green algal‐derived plastid. In addition to providing structural details of MGDG and DGDG not available in past studies, these results suggest a previously unknown relationship between these two organisms and the red algae. This study also illustrates that temperature modulation of galactolipids occurs via modification of unsaturation of both the sn‐1 and sn‐2 fatty acids; this is fundamentally different from previously published studies from our laboratory on other algal classes.
In the end it's a replication problem: What measuring telomere length can tell us about idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Chambers Daniel C.
Published: June 2015

See article, page 947
Towards intimate geographies of peace? Local reconciliation of domestic violence in Cambodia
Authors: Brickell Katherine
Published: June 2015

This paper addresses the dearth of writing in geography on domestic violence and its misplaced absenteeism in dialogues on geographies of war and peace. It challenges a preoccupation with (inter)‐national landscapes of war and militarism through its focus on the (im)possibilities of (liberal) peace within the home. The paper attends to the everyday politics of efforts to reduce spousal violence via local reconciliation – a customary practice of conflict resolution that has attracted criticism from the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women. On the basis of 120 interviews and a quantitative household survey in two provinces of Cambodia (2012–2014), the paper argues that political economy considerations are crucial to understanding the path and outcome of various domestic violence interventions. By analysing the situated beliefs and experiences of domestic violence victims, legal professionals, NGO workers, police officers and other authority leaders, it also stresses the importance of questioning what peace equates to for different stakeholders. The research shows a strong moralistic commitment to ‘harmony’ and the unyielding continuity of the marital unit by national and local government machinery intent on securing its own intimate security through local reconciliation. For many women who suffer abuse, and for legal professionals in particular, local reconciliation represents, by contrast, an ambiguous departure from intimate war to peace that can lead to the detriment rather than betterment of victims’ lives. Its continued use contravenes the country's 2005 domestic violence law in ‘severe’ cases and belies the promise of justice. Exposing and responding to the cultural ideals and norms promulgated, as well as the political and material realities operative, geographers have a greater role and responsibility to play in producing research that examines the multi‐scalar connections between these dynamics and the vested interests of their various interlocutors who have the potential to render peace putative.
Re‐growth, morphogenesis, and differentiation during starfish arm regeneration
Authors: Ben Khadra Yousra , Ferrario Cinzia , Benedetto Cristiano Di , Said Khaled , Bonasoro Francesco , Candia Carnevali M. Daniela , Sugni Michela
Published: June 2015

The red starfish Echinaster sepositus is an excellent model for studying arm regeneration processes following traumatic amputation. The initial repair phase was described in a previous paper in terms of the early cicatrisation phenomena, and tissue and cell involvement. In this work, we attempt to provide a further comprehensive description of the later regenerative stages in this species. Here, we present the results of a detailed microscopic and submicroscopic investigation of the long regenerative phase, which can be subdivided into two subphases: early and advanced regenerative phases. The early regenerative phase (1–6 weeks p.a.) is characterized by tissue rearrangement, morphogenetic processes and initial differentiation events (mainly neurogenesis and skeletogenesis). The advanced regenerative phase (after 6 weeks p.a.) is characterized by further differentiation processes (early myogenesis), and obvious morphogenesis and re‐growth of the regenerate. As in other starfish, the regenerative process in E. sepositus is relatively slow in comparison with that of crinoids and many ophiuroids, which is usually interpreted as resulting mainly from size‐related aspects and of the more conspicuous involvement of morphallactic processes. Light and electron microscopy analyses suggest that some of the amputated structures, such as muscles, are not able to replace their missing parts by directly re‐growing them from the remaining tissues, whereas others tissues, such as the skeleton and the radial nerve cord, appear to undergo direct re‐growth. The overall process is in agreement with the distalization‐intercalation model proposed by Agata and co‐workers. Further experiments are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Factors affecting the Risk-taking Behavior of Commercial Banks in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Morshedur , Uddin Kazi Mohammed Kamal , Moudud-Ul-Huq Syed
Published: June 2015

This study examines the capital regulation, profitability, bank size, liquidity, off-balance sheet activities, charter value, dividend payout ratio and macroeconomic variables as determinants of bank risk (credit risk and overall risk) by using information from 30 Bangladeshi commercial banks over a period of 2005-2013. We use Generalized Methods of Moments (GMM) in a balanced dynamic panel data framework. The empirical results show a negative relation between credit risk and capital regulation and a mixed relation between overall risk and capital regulation. We find a negative relation between credit risk and profitability and a positive relation between overall risk and profitability. The results also show that larger banks take higher credit and overall risk. It is also evident that off-balance sheet activities are positively related with both credit and overall risk. We also find that banks with high liquidity take more credit risk. Negative association is found between credit risk and charter value and mixed evidence is found on the relationship between charter value and overall risk. We also observe that dividend payout ratio is not an important factor of bank risk. With regard to the impact of macroeconomic variables we find no significant impact on risk. Finally we find that lagged risk is an important determinant of bank risk.
The Impact of Organizational and Business Strategy on Performance and Risk in the Insurance Industry
Authors: Lai Gene C. , Chou Lin-Yhi , Chen Lih Ru
Published: June 2015

This paper examines the impact of organizational structure and business strategy on company efficiency, profitability, and risk-taking behavior in the Taiwanese life insurance industry. The insurance industry in Taiwan provides an interesting environment for studying this issue because different organizational forms coexist in the insurance industry. We examine four different types of companies by organizational structure and two different business strategies. We use two frontier methodologies (stochastic frontier approach and data envelopment analysis approach) to measure the efficiency performance of insurance firms. The results show that organizational structures and business strategies have significant impact on efficiency, profitability, and risk-taking behavior. In addition, we also find size, lines of business, leverage ratio, and market share have significant impact on efficiency, profitability, and risk-taking behavior. Our overall evidence suggests that a more competitive environment should be encouraged in the Taiwanese insurance industry to improve the insurer efficiency.
Coupled Lattice Boltzmann and Meshless Simulation of Natural Convection in the Presence of Volumetric Radiation
Authors: Luo Kang , Ai Qing , Yi Hong-Liang , Tan He-Ping
Published: June 2015

In this work, the coupled lattice Boltzmann and direct collocation meshless (LB–DCM) method is introduced to solve the natural convection in the presence of volumetric radiation in irregular geometries. LB–DCM is a hybrid approach based on a common multiscale Boltzmann-type model. Separate particle distribution functions with multirelaxation time (MRT) and lattice Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook (LBGK) models are used to calculate the flow field and the thermal field, respectively. The radiation transfer equation is computed using the meshless method with moving least-squares (MLS) approximation. The LB–DCM code is first validated by the case of coupled convection–radiation flows in a square cavity. Comparisons show that this combined method is accurate and efficient. Then, the coupled convective and radiative heat transfer in two complex geometries are simulated at various parameters, such as eccentricity, Rayleigh number, and convection–radiation parameter. Numerical results show that the LB–DCM combination is a potential technique for the multifield coupling models, especially with the curved boundary.
Constructal Vascular Structures With High-Conductivity Inserts for Self-Cooling
Authors: Cetkin Erdal
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we show how a heat-generating domain can be cooled with embedded cooling channels and high-conductivity inserts. The volume of cooling channels and high-conductivity inserts is fixed, so is the volume of the heat-generating domain. The maximum temperature in the domain decreases with high-conductivity inserts even though the coolant volume decreases. The locations and the shapes of high-conductivity inserts corresponding to the smallest peak temperatures for different number of inserts are documented, x = 0.6L and D/B = 0.11 with two rectangular inserts. We also document how the length scales of the inserts should be changed as the volume fraction of the coolant volume over the high-conductivity material volume varies. The high-conductivity inserts should be placed nonequidistantly in order to provide the smallest peak temperature in the heat-generating domain. In addition, increasing the number of the inserts after a limit increases the peak temperature, i.e., this limit is eight number of inserts for the given conditions and assumptions. This paper shows that the overall thermal conductance of a heat-generating domain can be increased by embedding high-conductivity material in the solid domain (inverted fins) when the domain is cooled with forced convection, and the summation of high-conductivity material volume and coolant volume is fixed.
An Energy-Based Method for Predicting the Additive Effect of Multiple Film Cooling Rows
Authors: Kirollos Benjamin , Povey Thomas
Published: June 2015

There have been numerous studies reporting film effectiveness for film rows in isolation, which have led to correlations that are used for preliminary design. Many applications require multiple film cooling rows. Although there is some published data which deal with the combined effect of multiple rows, in most design situations the additive effect is computed using correlations for single rows. The most widely used method is the Sellers superposition method. In many applications, the method gives accurate results. Although the method is to some extent physically based, energy is not conserved within the model, and in certain situations this limitation can be shown to lead to an underprediction of the film effectiveness. In this paper, a new energy-based method for predicting the additive effect of multiple film cooling rows is outlined. The physical basis and limitations of the model are discussed. Predictions conducted using the new method are compared with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) data and contrasted with the Sellers method. In situations where energy conservation is required to avoid underprediction of effectiveness the method is shown to be advantageous.
Application of the Transtheoretical Model to Physical Activity in Deaf Individuals
Authors: Korologou Stefania , Barkoukis Vassilis , Lazuras Lambros , Tsorbatzoudis Haralambos
Published: June 2015

The current study used the transtheoretical model (TTM) as a guiding theoretical framework to assess differences in processes of change, decisional balance, and self-efficacy among deaf individuals with different levels of physical activity. Overall, 146 participants (M age = 26.4 yr, SD = 4.28) completed anonymous questionnaires assessing the dimensions of the TTM, stages of change, processes of change, decisional balance, and self-efficacy. Analysis of variance showed that both experiential and behavioral processes of change were higher in the preparation, action, and maintenance stages than in the other stages. Accordingly, the benefits of physical activity participation were stronger in the preparation stage, whereas the costs were more evident in the precontemplation stage. Finally, self-efficacy at the preparation stage was higher than in the other stages. The findings revealed how different stages of physical activity participation can be explained through the TTM, and the implications for physical activity intervention are discussed.
Surviving Ebola survival
Authors: Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: June 2015

After recovering from Ebola, some patients are struggling with other health problems.
Mission controller
Authors: Hand Eric
Published: June 2015

How Alan Stern's tenacity, drive, and command got a NASA spacecraft to Pluto.
Integration of Bmp and Wnt signaling by Hopx specifies commitment of cardiomyoblasts
Authors: Jain Rajan , Li Deqiang , Gupta Mudit , Manderfield Lauren J. , Ifkovits Jamie L. , Wang Qiaohong , Liu Feiyan , Liu Ying , Poleshko Andrey , Padmanabhan Arun , Raum Jeffrey C. , Li Li , Morrisey Edward E. , Lu Min Min , Won Kyoung-Jae , Epstein Jonathan A.
Published: June 2015

Making cardiomyocytes

In the heart, multiple cell types work together. Cardiac progenitor cells give rise to cardiomyocyte, endothelial, or smooth muscle lineages. However, the identity of a marker specific to cardiomyocyte formation has been elusive. Jain
et al.
now identify a specialized progenitor population that is committed exclusively to forming cardiomyocytes. They also identify the niche signals that promote lineage commitment and the mechanisms involved in making cardiomyocytes. The findings may help in the development of future cell-based regenerative therapeutics for heart disease.

Science
, this issue
10.1126/science.aaa6071
The living element
Radium and the Secret of Life
Luis A. Campos
University of Chicago Press, 2015. 386 pp.
Authors: Curry Helen Anne
Published: June 2015

Radium played an important, but often forgotten, role in life sciences research in the early 20th century
Evaluation of a Novel Plasma (1,3)-β-
d
-Glucan Detection Assay for Diagnosis of Candidemia in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Liu Ying , Chen Feng , Zhu Xiaodong , Shen Lisong , Zhang Sean X.
Published: June 2015

We evaluated a novel plasma (1,3)-β-
d
-glucan (BDG) detection assay for the diagnosis of candidemia in children. The median BDG levels were 73.4 pg/ml in patients with candidemia and <10 pg/ml in patients without candidemia (
P
< 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed a cutoff point of 14 pg/ml and an area under the curve of 0.802. At these values, the assay demonstrated 68% sensitivity, 91% specificity, 66% positive predictive value, and 91% negative predictive value. Plasma BDG levels were undetectable in 18 candidemia cases.
Commentary: Management of Microbiological Samples in a Confirmed Case of Ebola Virus Disease: Constraints and Limitations
Authors: Hogardt Michael , Wolf Timo , Kann Gerrit , Brodt Hans-Reinhard , Brandt Christian , Keppler Oliver T. , Wicker Sabine , Zacharowski Kai , Gottschalk René , Becker Stephan , Kempf Volkhard A. J.
Published: June 2015

In light of the recent Ebola virus outbreak, it has to be realized that besides medical treatment, precise algorithms for the management of complicating microbial infections are mandatory for Ebola virus disease (EVD) patients. While the necessity of such diagnostics is apparent, practical details are much less clear. Our approach, established during the treatment of an EVD patient at the University Hospital in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, provides a roadmap for reliable and safe on-site microbiological testing.
A Screen for Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase-Primed Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Substrates Identifies the p53 Inhibitor iASPP
Authors: Woodard Crystal , Liao Gangling , Goodwin C. Rory , Hu Jianfei , Xie Zhi , dos Reis Thaila F. , Newman Rob , Rho Heesool , Qian Jiang , Zhu Heng , Hayward S. Diane
Published: June 2015

The Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) LANA protein is essential for the replication and maintenance of virus genomes in latently KSHV-infected cells. LANA also drives dysregulated cell growth through a multiplicity of mechanisms that include altering the activity of the cellular kinases extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3). To investigate the potential impact of these changes in enzyme activity, we used protein microarrays to identify cell proteins that were phosphorylated by the combination of ERK and GSK-3. The assays identified 58 potential ERK-primed GSK-3 substrates, of which 23 had evidence for
in vivo
phosphorylation in mass spectrometry databases. Two of these, SMAD4 and iASPP, were selected for further analysis and were confirmed as ERK-primed GSK-3 substrates. Cotransfection experiments revealed that iASPP, but not SMAD4, was targeted for degradation in the presence of GSK-3. iASPP interferes with apoptosis induced by p53 family members. To determine the importance of iASPP to KSHV-infected-cell growth, primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) cells were treated with an iASPP inhibitor in the presence or absence of the MDM2 inhibitor Nutlin-3. Drug inhibition of iASPP activity induced apoptosis in BC3 and BCBL1 PEL cells but did not induce poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage in virus-negative BJAB cells. The effect of iASPP inhibition was additive with that of Nutlin-3. Interfering with iASPP function is therefore another mechanism that can sensitize KSHV-positive PEL cells to cell death.

IMPORTANCE
KSHV is associated with several malignancies, including primary effusion lymphoma (PEL). The KSHV-encoded LANA protein is multifunctional and promotes both cell growth and resistance to cell death. LANA is known to activate ERK and limit the activity of another kinase, GSK-3. To discover ways in which LANA manipulation of these two kinases might impact PEL cell survival, we screened a human protein microarray for ERK-primed GSK-3 substrates. One of the proteins identified, iASPP, showed reduced levels in the presence of GSK-3. Further, blocking iASPP activity increased cell death, particularly in p53 wild-type BC3 PEL cells.