bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Ba2+ on Structure and Piezoelectric Properties of PMN–PZN–PNN–PT Ceramics Near the Morphotropic Phase Boundary
Authors: Talanov Mikhail V. , Shilkina Lidiya A. , Verbenko Iliya A. , Reznichenko Larisa A.
Published: December 2014

The effect of using Ba2+ to modify the structure and dielectric and piezoelectric properties of Pb(1−x)Bax(Mg1/3Nb2/3)m(Zn1/3Nb2/3)y(Ni1/3Nb2/3)nTizO3(x = 0–0.15) ceramics near the morphotropic phase boundary has been investigated. It is found that increasing the content of Ba2+ leads to a sequence of structural transformations from heterophase state (tetragonal and pseudocubic phases) to a cubic state via an intermediate pseudocubic phase. The evolution of the dielectric and piezoelectric properties (sequences of transformations: normal ferroelectric →relaxor ferroelectric → paraelectric) is shown. It is stated that ceramics with x = 0.025–0.050 possess the optimal combination of functional parameters for use in low‐frequency receivers and actuators. They are characterized by high values of small‐signal and large‐signal piezoelectric coefficients d33 of 621 pC/N and ~1500 m/V (at E = 5 kV/cm), respectively, and also by increased values of dielectric permittivity ε/ε0 and tunability coefficient (К = [(ε/ε0(E = 0) − ε/ε0(E≠0))/ε/ε0(E = 0)]·100%), equal to ~7000 and ~80%, respectively (at E = 20 kV/cm). It is shown that for the creation of high‐power piezoelectric transducers it is necessary to use ceramics with x = 0.125, which differs with high values of the mechanical quality factor Qm and ε/ε0 (1406 and 10 890, respectively).
Boater Perceptions of Environmental Issues Affecting Lakes in Northern Wisconsin
Authors: Beardmore Ben
Published: December 2014

Understanding public perceptions of the importance of environmental issues is crucial for gauging support for management activities. I present a novel methodological approach to assess the importance boaters placed on 16 water issues in a lake‐rich region of northern Wisconsin. A latent class maximum difference conjoint model was used to examine the relationships between environmental concern and engagement with lake resources. Boaters were grouped to maximize observed heterogeneity in prioritizing issues of concern. Socio‐demographic characteristics, recreation specialization, place attachment, and attitudes concerning aquatic stewardship and invasive species management were then used to predict class membership. This modeling approach identified five groups whose perceptions of issues pertaining to lakes are influenced by their interactions with the lake environment. While anglers were most concerned about fishing quality, sightseers identified lakeshore development and loss of natural habitat. Groups also differed in their socio‐demographic and attitudinal characteristics. The priorities of each group were substantially different from those of the overall sample. Accounting for differences in stakeholders' environmental concerns may improve public involvement in water management initiatives by allowing managers to identify common concerns and prioritize important issues among multiple groups.
Seasonal and Regional Patterns in Performance for a Baltic Sea Drainage Basin Hydrologic Model
Authors: Lyon Steve W. , Meidani Roya , van der Velde Ype , Dahlke Helen E. , Swaney Dennis P. , Mörth Carl‐Magnus , Humborg Christoph
Published: December 2014

This study evaluates the ability of the Catchment SIMulation (CSIM) hydrologic model to describe seasonal and regional variations in river discharge over the entire Baltic Sea drainage basin (BSDB) based on 31 years of monthly simulation from 1970 through 2000. To date, the model has been successfully applied to simulate annual fluxes of water from the catchments draining into the Baltic Sea. Here, we consider spatiotemporal bias in the distribution of monthly modeling errors across the BSDB since it could potentially reduce the fidelity of predictions and negatively affect the design and implementation of land‐management strategies. Within the period considered, the CSIM model accurately reproduced the annual flows across the BSDB; however, it tended to underpredict the proportion of discharge during high‐flow periods (i.e., spring months) and overpredict during the summer low flow periods. While the general overpredictions during summer periods are spread across all the subbasins of the BSDB, the underprediction during spring periods is seen largely in the northern regions. By implementing a genetic algorithm calibration procedure and/or seasonal parameterization of subsurface water flows for a subset of the catchments modeled, we demonstrate that it is possible to improve the model performance albeit at the cost of increased parameterization and potential loss of parsimony.
Differential expression of basal microRNAs’ patterns in human dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Vasanthan Punitha , Govindasamy Vijayendran , Gnanasegaran Nareshwaran , Kunasekaran Wijenthiran , Musa Sabri , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty
Published: December 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that regulate translation of mRNA into protein and play a crucial role for almost all biological activities. However, the identification of miRNAs from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), especially from dental pulp, is poorly understood. In this study, dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) were characterized in terms of their proliferation and differentiation capacity. Furthermore, 104 known mature miRNAs were profiled by using real‐time PCR. Notably, we observed 19 up‐regulated miRNAs and 29 significantly down‐regulated miRNAs in DPSCs in comparison with bone marrow MSCs (BM‐MSCs). The 19 up‐regulated miRNAs were subjected to ingenuity analysis, which were composed into 25 functional networks. We have chosen top 2 functional networks, which comprised 10 miRNA (hsa‐miR‐516a‐3p, hsa‐miR‐125b‐1‐3p, hsa‐miR‐221‐5p, hsa‐miR‐7, hsa‐miR‐584‐5p, hsa‐miR‐190a, hsa‐miR‐106a‐5p, hsa‐mir‐376a‐5p, hsa‐mir‐377‐5p and hsa‐let‐7f‐2‐3p). Prediction of target mRNAs and associated biological pathways regulated by each of this miRNA was carried out. We paid special attention to hsa‐miR‐516a‐3p and hsa‐miR‐7‐5p as these miRNAs were highly expressed upon validation with qRT‐PCR analysis. We further proceeded with loss‐of‐function analysis with these miRNAs and we observed that hsa‐miR‐516a‐3p knockdown induced a significant increase in the expression of WNT5A. Likewise, the knockdown of hsa‐miR‐7‐5p increased the expression of EGFR. Nevertheless, further validation revealed the role of WNT5A as an indirect target of hsa‐miR‐516a‐3p. These results provide new insights into the dynamic role of miRNA expression in DPSCs. In conclusion, using miRNA signatures in human as a prediction tool will enable us to elucidate the biological processes occurring in DPSCs.
Does Banking Union Worsen theEU's Democratic Deficit? The Need for Greater Supervisory Data Transparency
Authors: Gandrud Christopher , Hallerberg Mark
Published: December 2014

Does banking union exacerbate the European Union's democratic deficit? Using Scharpf's ‘input’ and ‘output’ legitimacy concepts, it is argued in this article that its design does worsen the democratic deficit. There are good reasons to limit ‘input legitimacy’ for politically independent institutions. ‘Output legitimacy’ is then even more relevant. Transparency is a key part of ‘output legitimacy’. It enables actors to judge whether the regulator is acting in the public's interest and can improve their outputs. This article focuses on the banking data that the supervisors collect. Data available to the European public is evaluated and compared toAmerica's banking union. European practices are not comparable in terms of availability or detail. An original survey of relevant officials is conducted, which results in the finding that only 11 of 28 Member States release any information on the banks they supervise. BothEUand national supervisors should provide publicly available, timely and consistent individual bank data.
One Currency, One Price? Euro Changeover‐Related Inflation in Estonia
Authors: Meriküll Jaanika , Rõõm Tairi
Published: December 2014

This article investigates euro changeover‐related inflation using disaggregated price‐level data. The differences‐in‐differences approach is used, and the control group for the treatment country, Estonia, is built from 12 eurozone countries. The Nielsen Company disaggregated price data are employed at product, brand and shop‐type levels. The results indicate that while the overall inflationary effect of euro adoption was modest, the effects were significantly different across various market segments. Changeover‐related inflation was higher for products that were relatively cheaper than the eurozone average. Inflationary effects were stronger in smaller shops.
Desensitizing toothpaste versus placebo for dentin hypersensitivity: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bae Ji‐Hyun , Kim Young‐Kyun , Myung Seung‐Kwon
Published: December 2014

Aim

The aim is to assess the effect of desensitizing toothpaste on dentin hypersensitivity.

Methods

We searched PubMed, CENTRAL, and Embase on December 20, 2013.

Results

Out of the 626 articles searched, a total of 31 randomized controlled clinical trials were included. The Standardized mean differences (SMD) for potassium‐containing toothpaste (n = 8) was −1.28 (95% Confidence interval (CI) −2.05 to −0.51; I2 = 93%); Stannous fluoride‐ (n = 6) was −1.37 (95% CI, −2.30 to −0.44; I2 = 95%); Potassium and stannous fluoride‐ (n = 3) was −2.50 (95% CI, −4.10 to −0.91; I2 = 95%); Calcium sodium phosphosilicate‐ (n = 4) was −2.36 (95% CI, −3.72 to −1.00; I2 = 92%); Arginine‐ (n = 8) was −3.25 (95% CI, −3.87 to −2.63; I2 = 86%). The desensitizing effect was favoured in the intervention group treated with potassium‐, stannous fluoride‐, potassium and stannous fluoride‐, calcium sodium phosphosilicate‐, and arginine‐containing toothpaste compared to placebo. Whereas, strontium‐containing toothpaste (SMD, 0.05; 95% CI, −0.34 to 0.44; I2 = 64%) was found to have no statistically significant desensitizing effect in the meta‐analysis of four studies.

Conclusions

The study reports that there is sufficient evidence to support the use of potassium‐, stannous fluoride‐, potassium and stannous fluoride‐, calcium sodium phosphosilicate‐, and arginine‐containing desensitizing toothpastes for dentin hypersensitivity, but not the use of strontium‐containing desensitizing toothpaste.
The genetical theory of multilevel selection
Authors: Gardner A.
Published: December 2014

The theory of multilevel selection (MLS) is beset with conceptual difficulties. Although it is widely agreed that covariance between group trait and group fitness may arise in the natural world and drive a response to ‘group selection’, ambiguity exists over the precise meaning of group trait and group fitness and as to whether group selection should be defined according to changes in frequencies of different types of individual or different types of group. Moreover, the theory ofMLShas failed to properly engage with the problem of class structure, which greatly limits its empirical application to, for example, social insects whose colonies are structured into separate age, sex, caste and ploidy classes. Here,Idevelop a genetical theory ofMLS, to address these problems.Ishow that taking a genetical approach facilitates a decomposition of group‐level traits – including reproductive success – into the separate contributions made by each constituent individual, even in the context of so‐called emergence. However,Iuncover a novel problem with the group‐oriented approach: in many scenarios, it may not be possible to express a meaningful covariance between trait and fitness at the level of the social group, because the group's constituents belong to separate, irreconcilable classes.
Fathering From the Long View: Framing Personal and Social Change Through Life Course Theory
Authors: Roy Kevin
Published: December 2014

Life course theory is a unique and critical approach to our emerging understanding of fathering over the next century. To understand contemporary fathering is to pay close attention to personal and social change in men's lives. Equipped with a theory that links history, social structures, and individual lives, we might clarify some of the ambiguity and confusion surrounding contemporary men's roles in families. I review previous research on fathering over the life course and assess the strengths and limitations of such research. I reexamine 5 themes that were presented 2 decades ago in order to translate life course insights into family science (Bengtson & Allen, 1993). I integrate my own research on low‐income fathers and families into these themes. Finally, I offer some insights for advances in fathering scholarship through life course theory.
Fathering, Feminism(s), Gender, and Sexualities: Connections, Tensions, and New Pathways
Authors: Doucet Andrea , Lee Robyn
Published: December 2014

This article provides a critical overview of selected intersections of feminist theories and gender theories within fathering research and looks at a variety of theoretical and methodological approaches to a diversity of fathering experiences, including differences of class, ethnicity, race, sexuality, and family forms. Although there are many overlaps between feminist theories and gender theories, and most scholars who write about gender are feminist or profeminist scholars, there is one important distinction. Gender theories attend to multiple dimensions of gendered narratives, lives, practices, identities, and institutions. Feminism and feminist theories share all of these concerns; however, feminism and feminist theories are also directly connected to the promotion of social change for diverse groups of women, especially disadvantaged women. This point is important because it can lead to potential conflicts between feminist concerns and fathering.
Use of Identity Theory to Inform Fathering Scholarship
Authors: Pasley Kay , Petren Raymond E. , Fish Jessica N.
Published: December 2014

Our goal was to assess the contributions of identity theory to fathering research by critically reviewing the fathering literature that incorporated concepts and assumptions from this theory to frame their efforts. Overall, research findings support the association between father identity and fathering behavior, although differences in the nuance of theoretical constructs (status vs. role) in this association are less pronounced. We identify several weaknesses in this literature (e.g., variations in conceptualization and operationalization of constructs that result in conflicting results, confusion of status and role‐level conceptualization). We end with conclusions about the continued utility of this theory in informing this body of research.
Testing a Family‐Centered Intervention to Promote Functional and Cognitive Recovery in Hospitalized Older Adults
Authors: Boltz Marie , Resnick Barbara , Chippendale Tracy , Galvin James
Published: December 2014

A comparative trial using a repeated‐measures design was designed to evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of the Family‐Centered Function‐Focused‐Care (Fam‐FFC) intervention, which is intended to promote functional recovery in hospitalized older adults. A family‐centered resource nurse and a facility champion implemented a three‐component intervention (environmental assessment and modification, staff education, individual and family education and partnership in care planning with follow‐up after hospitalization for an acute illness). Control units were exposed to function‐focused‐care education only. Ninety‐seven dyads of medical patients aged 65 and older and family caregivers (FCGs) were recruited from three medical units of a community teaching hospital. Fifty‐three percent of patients were female, 89% were white, 51% were married, and 40% were widowed, and they had a mean age of 80.8 ± 7.5. Seventy‐eight percent of FCGs were married, 34% were daughters, 31% were female spouses or partners, and 38% were aged 46 to 65. Patient outcomes included functional outcomes (activities of daily living (ADLs), walking performance, gait, balance) and delirium severity and duration. FCG outcomes included preparedness for caregiving, anxiety, depression, role strain, and mutuality. The intervention group demonstrated less severity and shorter duration of delirium and better ADL and walking performance but not better gait and balance performance than the control group. FCGs who participated in Fam‐FFC showed a significant increase in preparedness for caregiving and a decrease in anxiety and depression from admission to 2 months after discharge but no significant differences in strain or quality of the relationship with the care recipient from FCGs in the control group. Fam‐FFC is feasible and has the potential to improve outcomes for hospitalized older adults and their caregivers.
Sensory and Motor Peripheral Nerve Function and Incident Mobility Disability
Authors: Ward Rachel E. , Boudreau Robert M. , Caserotti Paolo , Harris Tamara B. , Zivkovic Sasa , Goodpaster Bret H. , Satterfield Suzanne , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Schwartz Ann V. , Vinik Aaron I. , Cauley Jane A. , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Newman Anne B. , Strotmeyer Elsa S. ,   the Health, Aging and Body Composition Study
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To assess the relationship between sensorimotor nerve function and incident mobility disability over 10 years.

Design

Prospective cohort study with longitudinal analysis.

Setting

Two U.S. clinical sites.

Participants

Population‐based sample of community‐dwelling older adults with no mobility disability at 2000/01 examination (N = 1,680; mean age ± SD 76.5 ± 2.9, body mass index 27.1 ± 4.6; 50.2% female, 36.6% black, 10.7% with diabetes mellitus).

Measurements

Motor nerve conduction amplitude (poor <1 mV) and velocity (poor <40 m/s) were measured on the deep peroneal nerve. Sensory nerve function was measured using 10‐ and 1.4‐g monofilaments and vibration detection threshold at the toe. Lower extremity symptoms included numbness or tingling and aching or burning pain. Incident mobility disability assessed semiannually over 8.5 years (interquartile range 4.5–9.6 years) was defined as two consecutive self‐reports of a lot of difficulty or inability to walk one‐quarter of a mile or climb 10 steps.

Results

Nerve impairments were detected in 55% of participants, and 30% developed mobility disability. Worse motor amplitude (HR = 1.29 per SD, 95% CI = 1.16–1.44), vibration detection threshold (HR = 1.13 per SD, 95% CI = 1.04–1.23), symptoms (HR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.26–2.17), two motor impairments (HR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.43–3.09), two sensory impairments (HR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.37–2.68), and three or more nerve impairments (HR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.54–3.53) predicted incident mobility disability after adjustment. Quadriceps strength mediated relationships between certain nerve impairments and mobility disability, although most remained significant.

Conclusion

Poor sensorimotor nerve function independently predicted mobility disability. Future work should investigate modifiable risk factors and interventions such as strength training for preventing disability and improving function in older adults with poor nerve function.
Cost Analysis of a Home‐Based Nurse Care Coordination Program
Authors: Marek Karen Dorman , Stetzer Frank , Adams Scott J. , Bub Linda Denison , Schlidt Andrea , Colorafi Karen Jiggins
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To determine whether a home‐based care coordination program focused on medication self‐management would affect the cost of care to the Medicare program and whether the addition of technology, a medication‐dispensing machine, would further reduce cost.

Design

Randomized, controlled, three‐arm longitudinal study.

Setting

Participant homes in a large Midwestern urban area.

Participants

Older adults identified as having difficulty managing their medications at discharge from Medicare Home Health Care (N = 414).

Intervention

A team consisting of advanced practice nurses (APNs) and registered nurses (RNs) coordinated care for two groups: home‐based nurse care coordination (NCC) plus a pill organizer group and NCC plus a medication‐dispensing machine group.

Measurements

To measure cost, participant claims data from 2005 to 2011 were retrieved from Medicare Part A and B Standard Analytical Files.

Results

Ordinary least squares regression with covariate adjustment was used to estimate monthly dollar savings. Total Medicare costs were $447 per month lower in the NCC plus pill organizer group (P = .11) than in a control group that received usual care. For participants in the study at least 3 months, total Medicare costs were $491 lower per month in the NCC plus pill organizer group (P = .06) than in the control group. The cost of the NCC plus pill organizer intervention was $151 per month, yielding a net savings of $296 per month or $3,552 per year. The cost of the NCC plus medication‐dispensing machine intervention was $251 per month, and total Medicare costs were $409 higher per month than in the NCC plus pill organizer group.

Conclusion

Nurse care coordination plus a pill organizer is a cost‐effective intervention for frail elderly Medicare beneficiaries. The addition of the medication machine did not enhance the cost effectiveness of the intervention.
Origin of rutile needles in star garnet and implications for interpretation of inclusion textures in ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphic rocks
Authors: Hwang S.‐L. , Shen P. , Chu H.‐T. , Yui T.‐F. , Iizuka Y.
Published: December 2014

The asterism effect of star garnet has been attributed to the oriented distribution of needle‐like rutile inclusions. Rutile needles occur in garnet from a wide range of metamorphic settings and rock bulk compositions, and their origin has been ascribed to different mechanisms, such as exsolution, and used to interpret petrological and tectonic processes. Results from an optical and transmission electron microscopy of Idaho star garnet indicate a co‐precipitation origin. It was found that rutile needles are predominantly oriented along the <103>rt//<111>grt and <001>rt//<001>grt directions following multiple crystallographic orientation relationships (CORs); i.e. COR‐1, 2, 2′, 3, 4 and 5 in 6‐ray star garnet, and are oriented solely along the <103>rt//<111>grt directions following exclusively COR‐2 in 4‐ray star garnet. The sole presence of COR‐2 <111>grt needles in the common 4‐ray star garnet, in contrast to the presence of both <111>grt and <001>grt needles with multiple CORs in the rare 6‐ray star garnet, suggests that the COR‐2 <111>grt needle probably is the energetically most favoured variant, as is also supported by the coincidence site lattice considerations. The unique crystallography‐controlled microstructures of 4‐ray star garnet, including the cloudy domains behind the {111}grt or {100}grt fronts with abundant inclusions of rutile needle, rutile compound needle and multiple‐phase‐inclusion, as well as the clear domains behind the {110}grt fronts with only a few above inclusions concentrated exclusively within the linear, <110>grt‐oriented, continuous tube‐like domains, further suggest that the COR‐2 <111>grt needles in 4‐ray star garnet most likely have a growth‐in origin, co‐precipitating with garnet at its growth fronts close to thermodynamic equilibrium conditions. The 6‐ray star garnet, on the other hand, most likely formed under far‐from equilibrium conditions, thereby yielding a maximum of 99 crystallographic variants of rutile needles with multiple CORs in a single crystal. In the light of these findings, along with the common occurrences of the sole COR in many inclusion‐host systems owing to the requirement to minimize the energy barrier in an exsolution process, the presence of both <103>rt//<111>grt and <001>rt//<001>grt needles with multiple CORs in garnet of Sulu eclogite and Erzegebirge quartzofeldspathic rock would therefore cast doubt on the assertion of an exsolution origin of rutile needles in garnet from these ultrahigh‐pressure rocks.
Susceptibility to excitotoxicity in aged hippocampal cultures and neuroprotection by non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs: role of mitochondrial calcium
Authors: Calvo María , Sanz‐Blasco Sara , Caballero Erica , Villalobos Carlos , Núñez Lucía
Published: December 2014

Brain damage after insult and cognitive decline are related to excitotoxicity and strongly influenced by aging, yet mechanisms of aging‐dependent susceptibility to excitotoxicity are poorly known. Several non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may prevent excitotoxicity and cognitive decline in the elderly by an unknown mechanism. Interestingly, after several weeks in vitro, hippocampal neurons display important hallmarks of neuronal aging in vivo. Accordingly, rat hippocampal neurons cultured for several weeks were used to investigate mechanisms of aging‐related susceptibility to excitotoxicity and neuroprotection by NSAIDs. We found that NMDA increased cytosolic Ca2+ concentration in young, mature and aged neurons but only promoted apoptosis in aged neurons. Resting Ca2+ levels and responses to NMDA increased with time in culture which correlated with changes in expression of NMDA receptor subunits. In addition, NMDA promoted mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake only in aged cultures. Consistently, specific inhibition of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake decreased apoptosis. Finally, we found that a series of NSAIDs depolarized mitochondria and inhibited mitochondrial Ca2+ overload, thus preventing NMDA‐induced apoptosis in aged cultures. We conclude that mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake is critical for age‐related susceptibility to excitotoxicity and neuroprotection by NSAIDs.

image

Rat hippocampal neurons aged in culture were used to investigate mechanisms of age‐related susceptibility to excitotoxicity and neuroprotection by non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Old neurons display enhanced resting calcium and responses to NMDA along with increased expression of NMDA receptor subunits NR1 and NR2A altogether favoring mitochondrial calcium overload. NSAIDs protect neurons against excitotoxicity acting on mitochondrial calcium uptake. NMDA, N methyl d‐aspartate.
Rapid mitochondrial dysfunction mediates TNF‐alpha‐induced neurotoxicity
Authors: Doll Danielle N. , Rellick Stephanie L. , Barr Taura L. , Ren Xuefang , Simpkins James W.
Published: December 2014

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) is known to exacerbate ischemic brain injury; however, the mechanism is unknown. Previous studies have evaluated the effects of TNF‐α on neurons with long exposures to high doses of TNF‐α, which is not pathophysiologically relevant. We characterized the rapid effects of TNF‐α on basal respiration, ATP production, and maximal respiration using pathophysiologically relevant, post‐stroke concentrations of TNF‐α. We observed a reduction in mitochondrial function as early as 1.5 h after exposure to low doses of TNF‐α, followed by a decrease in cell viability in HT‐22 cells and primary neurons. Subsequently, we used the HT‐22 cell line to determine the mechanism by which TNF‐α causes a rapid and profound reduction in mitochondrial function. Pre‐treating with TNF‐R1 antibody, but not TNF‐R2 antibody, ameliorated the neurotoxic effects of TNF‐α, indicating that TNF‐α exerts its neurotoxic effects through TNF‐R1. We observed an increase in caspase 8 activity and a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential after exposure to TNF‐α which resulted in a release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria into the cytosol. These novel findings indicate for the first time that an acute exposure to pathophysiologically relevant concentrations of TNF‐α has neurotoxic effects mediated by a rapid impairment of mitochondrial function.

image

This study focuses on the neurotoxic mechanism of a pro‐inflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α). We demonstrate a prompt mitochondrial dysfunction followed by nerve cell loss after exposure to TNF‐α. These studies may provide evidence that the immune system can rapidly and adversely affect brain function and that TNF‐α signaling may be a target for neuroprotection.
Size Anomalies in U.S. Bank Stock Returns
Authors: GANDHI PRIYANK , LUSTIG HANNO
Published: December 2014

The largest commercial bank stocks, ranked by total size of the balance sheet, have significantly lower risk‐adjusted returns than small‐ and medium‐sized bank stocks, even though large banks are significantly more levered. We uncover a size factor in the component of bank returns that is orthogonal to the standard risk factors, including small minus big, which has the right covariance with bank returns to explain the average risk‐adjusted returns. This factor measures size‐dependent exposure to bank‐specific tail risk. These findings are consistent with government guarantees that protect shareholders of large banks, but not small banks, in disaster states.
High serum adiponectin is associated with low blood haemoglobin in elderly men: the Swedish MrOS study
Authors: Lewerin C. , Johansson H. , Lerner U. H. , Karlsson M. K. , Lorentzon M. , Barrett‐Connor E. , Smith U. , Ohlsson C. , Mellström D.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

Blood haemoglobin (Hb) concentration declines in elderly men, whilst the level of the adipocyte‐derived protein adiponectin increases with age. The association between erythropoiesis and adiponectin in elderly men is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether adipokines such as adiponectin and leptin are associated with anaemia and Hb concentration in elderly community‐dwelling men.

Design and setting

The Gothenburg part of the population‐based Swedish Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) cohort (n = 1010; median age 75.3 years, range 69–81).

Main outcome measures

We investigated the associations between levels of adiponectin and Hb before and after adjusting for potential confounders [i.e. age, body composition, erythropoietin (EPO), total oestradiol, leptin, cystatin C and iron and B vitamin status].

Results

In these elderly men, age was negatively associated with Hb (r = −0.12, P < 0.001) and positively associated with adiponectin level (r = 0.13, P < 0.001). In age‐adjusted partial correlations, Hb and adiponectin levels were negatively correlated (r = −0.20, P < 0.001); this association remained significant after multivariable adjustment for age, body composition, EPO, fasting insulin, sex hormones, leptin and ferritin. Age‐adjusted mean adiponectin concentrations were significantly higher in anaemic men (66/1005; Hb <130 g L−1) compared to nonanaemic men (14.0 vs. 11.7  μg mL−1, P < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, adiponectin together with EPO, total oestradiol, insulin, albumin, transferrin saturation, HDL cholesterol, cystatin C, total body fat mass and free thyroxine, but not leptin, explained 35% of the variation in Hb level. These results remained essentially unchanged after exclusion of men with diabetes.

Conclusions

Serum adiponectin, but not leptin, was negatively and independently associated with Hb. This finding suggests a possible role of adiponectin in the age‐related decline in Hb level observed in apparently healthy elderly men.
An update on pathophysiological mechanisms related to idiopathic oro‐facial pain conditions with implications for management
Authors: Forssell H. , Jääskeläinen S. , List T. , Svensson P. , Baad‐Hansen L.
Published: December 2014

Chronic oro‐facial pain conditions such as persistent idiopathic facial pain (PIFP), atypical odontalgia (AO) and burning mouth syndrome (BMS), usually grouped together under the concept of idiopathic oro‐facial pain, remain a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Lack of understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of these pain conditions is one of the important reasons behind the problems in diagnostic and management. During the last two decades, neurophysiological, psychophysical, brain imaging and neuropathological methods have been systematically applied to study the trigeminal system in idiopathic oro‐facial pain. The findings in these studies have provided evidence for neuropathic involvement in the pathophysiology of PIFP, AO and BMS. The present qualitative review is a joint effort of a group of oro‐facial pain specialists and researchers to appraise the literature on idiopathic oro‐facial pain with special focus on the currently available studies on their pathophysiological mechanisms. The implications of the findings of these studies for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic oro‐facial pain conditions are discussed.
School Belonging, Generational Status, and Socioeconomic Effects on Mexican‐Origin Children's Later Academic Competence and Expectations
Authors: Hernández Maciel M. , Robins Richard W. , Widaman Keith F. , Conger Rand D.
Published: December 2014

This study examined factors that relate to academic competence and expectations from elementary to middle school for 674 fifth‐grade students (50% boys; Mage = 10.86 years) of Mexican origin. Models predicting academic competence and expectations were estimated using a structural equation modeling (SEM) framework, with longitudinal data from fifth to eighth grades. School belonging (i.e., social and emotional connectedness to school) predicted greater academic competence and expectations over time. Findings indicate that student feelings of belonging in school may act as a resource that promotes academic competence and expectations. Furthermore, family income, parent education, and generational status had direct effects on academic competence and expectations to some degree, suggesting the importance of contextual factors in this process.
Sanctioning Resistance to Sexual Objectification: An Integrative System Justification Perspective
Authors: Calogero Rachel M. , Tylka Tracy L.
Published: December 2014

In this article, we describe an integrated theoretical approach for promoting resistance to the system of sexual objectification. Drawing from system justification and objectification theories, we propose a two‐arm approach that would harness the system justification motive and adjust the lens of self‐objectification in order to facilitate social change. We suggest that it is necessary to frame a rejection of the system of sexual objectification as a way to preserve (rather than threaten) the societal status quo. Further, we argue that it is critical to alter and expand the self‐objectified lens through which many women come to view themselves in order to reduce their dependence on the system that constructs and sustains that lens. Although we recognize that multiple approaches and perspectives are needed, we argue that a disruption of the system at its ideological roots is essential to ultimately transcend sexual objectification as a cultural practice.
Commentary: Encouraging Confrontation
Authors: Glick Peter
Published: December 2014

Sexism differs from other prejudices due to intimate interdependence between the sexes, requiring gender‐specific research on effective ways to confront sexist behavior. Two central themes emerge from the current issue: (i) who can confront sexism successfully and (ii) how organizations and leaders should intervene. The burden to confront often falls on female targets, who experience social costs for doing so, especially when perpetrators have greater power. Targets therefore need allies, including men, who are not perceived as having self‐interested motives for confronting. Organizations—through leaders and policies—represent the most important and effective allies. Organizational priorities can determine whether female targets suffer in silence or are empowered to confront. Fortunately, there is increasing popular interest, both among women and organizations, to address barriers to women's advancement. This special issue represents an important first step, outlining promising strategies for confronting sexism.
Pathotypes of Colletotrichum sublineolum in Response to Sorghum Populations with Different Levels of Genetic Diversity in Sete Lagoas‐MG
Authors: Costa Rodrigo V. , Zambolim Laércio , Cota Luciano V. , Silva Dagma D. , Parreira Douglas F. , Lanza Fabrício E. , Souza André G. C.
Published: December 2014

Sorghum anthracnose is one of the most important and destructive diseases of sorghum. Genetic resistance has been the most efficient strategy to control the disease, but the high variability of the pathogen population in Brazil has resulted in only modest efficacy. Accordingly, we investigated the variability of Colletotrichum sublineolum in response to sorghum populations with three levels of genetic diversity: pure stand, three‐way hybrids and physical mixtures of three‐way hybrids. Six plots of each treatment were planted in different areas and at different dates. A total of 480 isolates, that is 40 single‐conidium isolates per plot, were collected from the field experiment to characterize the variability of the pathogen in each host population. Isolates were inoculated in a greenhouse on a differential line set composed of eight sorghum inbred lines. Our results reveal that the pathogen populations derived from three‐way combinations had higher pathotype diversity than did those derived from pure stand host populations. More complexly, virulent phenotypes were also developed in genetically diverse stands compared to pure stand host populations. The diversification of the host population limits pathogen adaptation, thus resulting in a significantly higher number of pathotypes. The results of this study will improve the management of sorghum anthracnose in the field by helping sorghum breeders maintain disease resistance.
Systemic combined melatonin–mitochondria treatment improves acute respiratory distress syndrome in the rat
Authors: Sun Cheuk Kwan , Lee Fan Yen , Kao Ying Hsien , Chiang Hsin Ju , Sung Pei Hsun , Tsai Tzu Hsien , Lin Yu Chun , Leu Steve , Wu Ying Chung , Lu Hung I , Chen Yung Lung , Chung Sheng Ying , Su Hong Lin , Yip Hon Kan
Published: December 2014

Despite high in‐hospital mortality associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), there is no effective therapeutic strategy. We tested the hypothesis that combined melatonin–mitochondria treatment ameliorates 100% oxygen‐induced ARDS in rats. Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats (n = 40) were equally categorized into normal controls, ARDS, ARDS‐melatonin, ARDS with intravenous liver‐derived mitochondria (1500 μg per rat 6 hr after ARDS induction), and ARDS receiving combined melatonin–mitochondria. The results showed that 22 hr after ARDS induction, oxygen saturation (saO2) was lowest in the ARDS group and highest in normal controls, significantly lower in ARDS‐melatonin and ARDS‐mitochondria than in combined melatonin–mitochondria group, and significantly lower in ARDS‐mitochondria than in ARDS‐melatonin group. Conversely, right ventricular systolic blood pressure and lung weight showed an opposite pattern compared with saO2 among all groups (all P < 0.001). Histological integrity of alveolar sacs showed a pattern identical to saO2, whereas lung crowding score exhibited an opposite pattern (all P < 0.001). Albumin level and inflammatory cells (MPO+, CD40+, CD11b/c+) from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid showed a pattern opposite to saO2 (all P < 0.001). Protein expression of indices of inflammation (MMP‐9, TNF‐α, NF‐κB), oxidative stress (oxidized protein, NO‐1, NOX‐2, NOX‐4), apoptosis (mitochondrial Bax, cleaved caspase‐3, and PARP), fibrosis (Smad3, TGF‐β), mitochondrial damage (cytochrome C), and DNA damage (γ‐H2AX+) exhibited an opposite pattern compared to saO2 in all groups, whereas protein (HO‐1, NQO‐1, GR, GPx) and cellular (HO‐1+) expressions of antioxidants exhibited a progressively increased pattern from normal controls to ARDS combined melatonin–mitochondria group (all P < 0.001). In conclusion, combined melatonin–mitochondrial was superior to either treatment alone in attenuating ARDS in this rat model.
Melatonin stimulates the nonamyloidogenic processing of βAPP through the positive transcriptional regulation of ADAM10 and ADAM17
Authors: Shukla Mayuri , Htoo Htut Htut , Wintachai Phitchayapak , Hernandez Jean‐Francois , Dubois Claire , Postina Rolf , Xu Huaxi , Checler Frédéric , Smith Duncan R. , Govitrapong Piyarat , Vincent Bruno
Published: December 2014

Melatonin controls many physiological functions including regulation of the circadian rhythm and clearance of free radicals and neuroprotection. Importantly, melatonin levels strongly decrease as we age and patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) display lower melatonin than age‐matched controls. Several studies have reported that melatonin can reduce aggregation and toxicity of amyloid‐β peptides that are produced from the β‐amyloid precursor protein (βAPP). However, whether melatonin can directly regulate the βAPP‐cleaving proteases (‘secretases’) has not been investigated so far. In this study, we establish that melatonin stimulates the α‐secretase cleavage of βAPP in cultured neuronal and non‐neuronal cells. This effect is fully reversed by ADAM10‐ and ADAM17‐specific inhibitors and requires both plasma membrane‐located melatonin receptor activation, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Moreover, we demonstrate that melatonin upregulates both ADAM10 and ADAM17 catalytic activities and endogenous protein levels. Importantly, genetic depletion of one or the other protease in mouse embryonic fibroblasts prevents melatonin stimulating constitutive and PKC‐regulated sAPPα secretion and ADAM10/ADAM17 catalytic activities. Furthermore, we show that melatonin induces ADAM10 and ADAM17 promoter transactivation, and we identify the targeted promoter regions. Finally, we correlate melatonin‐dependent sAPPα production with a protection against staurosporine‐induced apoptosis. Altogether, our results provide the first demonstration that melatonin upregulates the nonamyloidogenic ADAM10 and ADAM17 proteases through melatonin receptor activation, ERK phosphorylation and the transactivation of some specific regions of their promoters and further underline the preventive rather than curative nature of melatonin regarding AD treatment.
Occupational stressors, burnout and coping strategies between hospital and community psychiatric nurses in a Dublin region
Authors: McTiernan K. , McDonald N.
Published: December 2014

Accessible summary

Burnout negatively impacts the delivery of mental health services.

Psychiatric nurses face stressors that are distinct from other nursing specialities.

The research was conducted in Ireland and captured a relatively large sample of respondents.

The results compared the stressors, coping strategies and burnout levels between hospital and community‐based psychiatric nurses.

Occupational stress can negatively impact on the well‐being of psychiatric nurses, which in turn can lead to poor client care. There is a dearth of published research conducted in Ireland that examines stress within the discipline. A between‐groups study, undertaken in February 2011, investigated stressors, burnout and coping strategies between hospital and community‐based psychiatric nurses in a Dublin region. Sixty‐nine participants (8 males and 61 females), aged between 18 to 60 years voluntarily completed the Mental Health Professional Stress Scale, the Maslach Burnout Inventory and the PsychNurse Methods of Coping Scale. The findings revealed that nurses were operating in a moderately stressful environment. Stressors focused on organizational issues as opposed to client issues. The main stressors identified were lack of resources, workload and organizational structures/processes. Both groups reported average levels of emotional exhaustion, low levels of depersonalization and average levels of personal accomplishment. A Mann–Whitney U‐test and Independent Samples t‐test found significant differences between hospital and community‐based nurses regarding depersonalization and personal accomplishment, respectively. Hospital nurses reported higher depersonalization scores, and community nurses had a greater sense of personal accomplishment. The personal accomplishment scores of hospital nurses were below mental health professional norms. No significant differences emerged regarding coping strategies. Avoidant coping strategies were favoured by both groups. It is recommended that interventions aimed at increasing personal accomplishment be implemented for both groups of nurses. An investigation of perceived job control and the use of social support would also be insightful.
Nurses' attitudes towards self‐harm: a literature review
Authors: Karman P. , Kool N. , Poslawsky I. E. , van Meijel B.
Published: December 2014

Accessible summary

People who self‐harm experience many problems and needs related to management of emotional and practical stress. A positive attitude among nurses is especially important given the close contact they have with people who self‐harm.

This article is based on a review of the literature. It includes articles that concern both general and mental health nurses who work in various healthcare settings (e.g. acute inpatients wards, community mental health, emergency departments and medical admission units).

The literature shows that negative attitudes towards self‐harm are common among nurses. It remains unclear how nurses' age, work experience and gender influence their attitudes. The setting in which nurses work appears to influence their attitude, as does their level of qualification. For example, mental health nurses appear to have more positive attitudes than general nurses.

Nurses' attitudes can be improved with the help of education comprising reflective and interactive elements. Supervision and support from colleagues appear to be especially important for mental health nurses.

Self‐harm is a growing health problem. Nurses in a variety of healthcare settings play a central role in the care of people who self‐harm. Their professional attitudes towards these people are essential for high‐quality care. This review aims to develop insight into nurses' attitudes towards self‐harm as they exist in contemporary nursing practice. A literature search was conducted in four databases, and a total of 15 relevant articles were found. This review indicates that negative attitudes towards self‐harm are common among nurses. The influence of nurses' age, gender and work experience remains unclear. Healthcare setting and qualification level appear to be influencing factors. Education can have a positive influence on nurses' attitudes towards self‐harm, especially when it includes reflective and interactive components. It is demonstrated in this review that a major change is needed regarding nurses' attitudes. To realize this change, nurses need to be trained and educated adequately concerning self‐harm. They need time and resources to build a therapeutic relationship with people who harm themselves so they can offer high‐quality care for this vulnerable group.