bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a web‐based educational programme on changes in frequency of nurses’ interventions to help smokers quit and reduce second‐hand smoke exposure in China
Authors: Sarna Linda , Bialous Stella Aguinaga , Zou Xiao Nong , Wang Weili , Hong Jingfang , Wells Marjorie , Brook Jenny
Published: October 2015

Aims

To evaluate a web‐based educational smoking cessation programme on changes in the frequency of hospital‐based nurses’ self‐reported interventions to help smokers quit using the 5 As (i.e. Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange), to reduce exposure to second‐hand smoke and to change attitudes about nurses’ involvement in tobacco control.

Background

Few nurses in China support smokers’ quit attempts using evidence‐based smoking cessation interventions based on the 5 As. Limited knowledge is a barrier to intervention. Web‐based tobacco cessation programs have the potential to reach a large population of nurses.

Design

A prospective single‐group design with pre‐, 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐up after the educational programme evaluated the feasibility of conducting web‐based educational programs in two cities in China in 2012–2013.

Methods

Frequency of interventions was assessed using a valid and reliable web‐based survey with a convenience sample of nurses from eight hospitals in Beijing and Hefei, China. Generalized linear models, adjusting for age, clinical setting, education and site were used to determine changes in the consistent (usually/always) use of the 5 As from baseline to 3 and to 6 months.

Results

Nurses (N = 1386) had baseline and/or 3‐ and 6‐month data. At 6 months, nurses were significantly more likely to Assess, Assist and Arrange for smoking cessation and recommend smoke‐free home environments. There was significant improvement in attitudes about tobacco control.

Conclusions

Nurses receiving web‐based smoking cessation education significantly increased self‐reports of frequency of providing interventions to patients who smoke, including recommending smoke‐free home environments to support quit attempts.
Gut‐derived lymphocyte recruitment to liver and induce liver injury in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease mouse model
Authors: Hu Ying , Zhang Henghui , Li Jing , Cong Xu , Chen Yanhui , He Gaixia , Chi Yujing , Liu Yulan
Published: October 2015

Background and Aim

Most studies focus on gut‐derived factors like microbiota and its products and how they contribute to non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) progression. This study investigated whether the gut‐derived lymphocytes could migrate to the liver and induce liver injury in NAFLD.

Methods

A high‐fat diet induced an NAFLD mouse model, and lymphocytes were labeled with 1,1‐dioctadecyl‐3,3,3,3 tetramethylindotricarbocyanine iodide and carboxy‐fluorescein succinimidyl ester, respectively, and intravenously injected to mice to monitor lymphocyte migration.

Results

Adoptive transfer model results indicated that compared with lymphocytes from the spleen, bone marrow and thymus of NAFLD donor mice, mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) cells from NAFLD donor mice predominately accumulated in the livers of NAFLD recipient mice. The frequencies of central memory CD4+T and CD8+T cells in livers of NAFLD mice were significantly increased; however, the activated T cells were not significantly altered. After adoptively transferred MLN cells, the frequencies of the activated CD4+T and CD8+T cells increased in livers of NAFLD recipient mice. By contrast, the frequencies of central memory and naïve CD4+T and CD8+T cells decreased. MLN cells also induced liver injury in NAFLD recipient mice, as reflected by elevated serum alanine aminotransferase and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase serums. Moreover, the chemotaxis assay showed that CCL5 mediated the MLN cell migration to the liver. Also, blocking the CCL5 inhibited MLN cell migration to the liver in vitro.

Conclusions

Gut‐derived lymphocytes from NAFLD mice could migrate to the liver and induce liver injury and hepatic CD4+T and CD8+T cells activation. The migration was associated with the upregulation of CCL5 in the liver.
Handling stress increases expression of male sexual behaviour in an amphibian with an explosive mating strategy
Authors: Woodley S. K. , Porter B. A.
Published: October 2015

Exposure to stressors typically suppresses reproductive processes, including the expression of sexual behaviour. However, many animal species breed in extreme conditions where opportunities to mate in a given season are limited. In such species, stress‐induced suppression of reproduction would be maladaptive, especially if they also have short lifespans. Species with longer lifespans, but still limited mating opportunities in a given season, may be able to withstand a few missed breeding opportunities. We tested whether capture and handling would suppress male sexual behaviour in spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum), a species with an explosive mating strategy but a relatively long lifespan. Males were captured as they migrated to breeding sites and were handled in a manner known to induce an increase in plasma corticosterone, a component of the stress response. Thirty min later, each male was paired with a freshly captured female for 60 min. Handled males deposited significantly more spermatophores than did control males. The mechanism for the increased sexual behaviour is unknown but may involve handling‐induced changes in stress hormones or reproductive hormones. Regardless of the mechanism whereby handling increased male sexual behaviour, our results support the hypothesis that stressors do not suppress male mating behaviour in a long‐lived species with limited opportunities to mate.
Bioavailable vitamin D levels are reduced and correlate with bone mineral density and markers of mineral metabolism in adults with nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Aggarwal Abhinav , Yadav Ashok K , Ramachandran Raja , Kumar Vinod , Kumar Vivek , Sachdeva Naresh , Khandelwal Niranjan , Jha Vivekanand
Published: October 2015

Aim

Blood levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH) D] are reduced in patients with nephrotic syndrome (NS). The lowering is thought to be due to urinary loss of vitamin D binding protein (DBP). A link between vitamin D deficiency and bone disease or markers of mineral metabolism has not yet been shown in NS. We hypothesized that alterations in bioavailable vitamin D levels might be linked to these abnormalities in NS.

Methods

We measured circulating levels of 25(OH)D, 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], DBP, serum albumin and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) in 106 adults with sporadic idiopathic NS and 40 healthy controls. Bioavailable vitamin D was calculated from previously validated formulae. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured at left hip (neck of femur) by DEXA.

Results

Compared to healthy controls, total and bioavailable 25(OH)D levels were significantly reduced in patients with NS as compared to healthy controls. Among the nephrotic patients, BMD was positively correlated with bioavailable 25(OH)D (r = 0.358; P = 0.0002) but not with total 25(OH)D (r = 0.174; P = 0.079). Total 1,25(OH)2D and bioavailable 1,25(OH)2D did not correlate with BMD (r = 0.131; P =  0.206 and r = 0.107, P = 0.295). Bioavailable 25(OH)D levels showed a strong inverse correlation with iPTH on univariate (r = −0.457; P < 0.0001) and multivariate (β=−0.453, P < 0.0001) analyses.

Conclusions

We conclude that bioavailable 25(OH)D is a better measure of vitamin D status with respect of BMD and mineral metabolism in patients of nephrotic syndrome.
Spatio‐temporal patterning of arginyl‐tRNA protein transferase (ATE) contributes to gametophytic development in a moss
Authors: Schuessele Christian , Hoernstein Sebastian N. W. , Mueller Stefanie J. , Rodriguez‐Franco Marta , Lorenz Timo , Lang Daniel , Igloi Gabor L. , Reski Ralf
Published: October 2015

The importance of the arginyl‐tRNA protein transferase (ATE), the enzyme mediating post‐translation arginylation of proteins in the N‐end rule degradation (NERD) pathway of protein stability, was analysed in Physcomitrella patens and compared to its known functions in other eukaryotes.

We characterize ATE:GUS reporter lines as well as ATE mutants in P. patens to study the impact and function of arginylation on moss development and physiology.

ATE protein abundance is spatially and temporally regulated in P. patens by hormones and light and is highly abundant in meristematic cells. Further, the amount of ATE transcript is regulated during abscisic acid signalling and downstream of auxin signalling. Loss‐of‐function mutants exhibit defects at various levels, most severely in developing gametophores, in chloroplast starch accumulation and senescence. Thus, arginylation is necessary for moss gametophyte development, in contrast to the situation in flowering plants.

Our analysis further substantiates the conservation of the N‐end rule pathway components in land plants and highlights lineage‐specific features. We introduce moss as a model system to characterize the role of the NERD pathway as an additional layer of complexity in eukaryotic development.
Occlusal traits in children with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Bardellini E. , Tonni I. , Micheli R. , Molinaro A. , Amadori F. , Flocchini P. , Piana G. , Majorana A.
Published: October 2015

Structured Abstract

Objectives

Literature is poor of data about the occlusion in children affected by neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). This case–control study investigated the occlusal traits in a group of children with NF1.

Setting and sample population

A hundred and fifteen children with NF1 were enrolled; non‐NF1 controls were sequentially selected among subjects referred to the Pediatric Dentistry Department.

Material and methods

All patients underwent a clinical dental examination and a panoramic radiography. The following orthodontic variables were considered: molar relationship, overjet, overbite, cross‐bite, scissor bite, and crowding/spacing.

Results

Class III molar relationship resulted significantly (p = 0.01) more common in children with NF1 than in the control group as well as the unilateral posterior cross‐bite (p = 0.0017). Forty‐three children with NF1 (37.3%) showed radiographic abnormalities; in one case, a plexiform neurofibroma was detected.

Conclusions

An early orthodontic evaluation might be planned in the management of children with NF1 to prevent or decrease the need for extensive orthodontic interventions.
Changes in Elementary Student Perceptions of Science, Scientists, and Science Careers After Participating in a Curricular Module on Health and Veterinary Science
Authors: Shin Soo Yeon , Parker Loran Carleton , Adedokun Omolola , Mennonno Ann , Wackerly Amy , San Miguel Sandra
Published: October 2015

This study examined to what extent a curriculum module that uses animal and human health scientists and science concepts to portray science and scientists in a relevant and authentic manner could enhance elementary students' aspiration for science careers, attitudes to science, positive perceptions of scientists, and perceived relevance of science. The curriculum was developed by a research‐based university program and has been put into practice in two early elementary classrooms in an urban school in the Midwest. An attitudinal rating survey and the Draw‐A‐Scientist Test were used to assess pre to post changes in student attitudes toward science, perceptions of scientists, perceived relevance of science, and aspiration for science careers. Findings indicated that the implementation of this curriculum contributed positively to student attitudes toward science, decreased students' stereotypical images of scientists, and increased student aspirations to become a scientist.
Writing as a Tool to Demonstrate Mathematical Understanding
Authors: Martin Christie Lynn
Published: October 2015

In this study, I examine how using a writers' workshop model in mathematics creates a space for students to write about their mathematical thinking and problem solving and how their writing impacts instruction. This case study of one classroom with one teacher spanned 6 weeks and included 18 implementations of an adapted version of the Writers' Workshop (WW) in a fourth‐grade mathematics class. On a biweekly basis, the data were reviewed and changes made to the model. The analysis of the students' writing revealed (a) their understandings and misunderstandings of the mathematical content, (b) their readiness for more challenging tasks, and (c) their connections to prior knowledge. Students used writing to demonstrate their understanding of mathematics and show their mathematical processes. In some cases, examining only the numerical work failed to illuminate the students' understanding, their writing provided deeper insight. Students recognized writing as a tool for learning; this was evident in interview responses.
Identification of a new HLA‐A*24 allele, A*24:313
Authors: Kim S.‐K. , Oh H.‐B. , Yoon C. E. , Jun J.‐H.
Published: October 2015

The new allele, A*24:313, showed one nucleotide difference with A*24:02:01 (595G>A).
Designing a sustainable diet
Authors: Merrigan Kathleen , Griffin Timothy , Wilde Parke , Robien Kimberly , Goldberg Jeanne , Dietz William
Published: October 2015

Sustainability as dietary guidance created political debate
A GABAergic projection from the zona incerta to cortex promotes cortical neuron development
Authors: Chen Jiadong , Kriegstein Arnold R.
Published: October 2015

Circuits for brain building

The brain is made up of circuits. Chen and Kriegstein analyzed how one particular circuit functions differently in developing and mature mouse brains (see the Perspective by Spitzer). This circuit connects the brain's diencephalon to the cortex. Early in development, the circuit is excitatory and affects how the cortical neurons it touches build their dendrites and synapses. Later on, after the fundamentals of brain construction are in place, the circuit switches to inhibitory functions, helping the brain resist epileptiform activity.

Science
, this issue p.
554
; see also p.
510
Sperm calcineurin inhibition prevents mouse fertility with implications for male contraceptive
Authors: Miyata Haruhiko , Satouh Yuhkoh , Mashiko Daisuke , Muto Masanaga , Nozawa Kaori , Shiba Kogiku , Fujihara Yoshitaka , Isotani Ayako , Inaba Kazuo , Ikawa Masahito
Published: October 2015

Mouse work may lead to male contraceptive

Unintended pregnancies are a major health issue worldwide. Although oral contraceptives were developed decades ago for use in women, there are no male oral contraceptives. Miyata
et al.
show that genetic deletion or drug inhibition of sperm-specific calcineurin enzymes in mice cause male sterility (see the Perspective by Castaneda and Matzuk). Although calcineurin inhibitors resulted in male infertility within 2 weeks, fertility recovered 1 week after halting drug administration. Because the sperm-specific calcineuin complex is also found in humans, its inhibition may be a strategy for developing reversible male contraceptives.

Science
, this issue p.
442
, see also p.
385
Genome Sequence of Streptococcus agalactiae Strain H002, Serotype III, Isolated in China from a Pregnant Woman
Authors: Wang Rui , Li Liping , Luo Fuguang , Liang Wanwen , Gan Xi , Chen Ming
Published: October 2015

Here, we report the first whole-genome sequence of
Streptococcus agalactiae
strain H002, serotype III, isolated in China from a woman 32 weeks pregnant. This sequence represents an important addition to the published genomes and will promote comparative genomic studies of
S. agalactiae
spp. isolated from diverse regions, particularly when compared with Chinese strains.
Complete Genome Sequence of Spiroplasma litorale TN-1
T
(DSM 21781), a Bacterium Isolated from a Green-Eyed Horsefly (
Tabanus nigrovittatus
)
Authors: Lo Wen-Sui , Lai Yi-Ching , Lien Yun-Wei , Wang Tzu-Haw , Kuo Chih-Horng
Published: October 2015

Spiroplasma litorale
TN-1
T
(DSM 21781) was isolated from the gut of a green-eyed horsefly (
Tabanus nigrovittatus
), collected at Ocracoke Island in North Carolina in 1983. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of this bacterium to facilitate the investigation of its biology.
The most abundant small cytoplasmic RNA of Saccharomyces cerevisiae has an important function required for normal cell growth.
Authors: Felici F , Cesareni G , Hughes J M
Published: October 2015

The most abundant RNA visible between 5.8S and 18S rRNA on an ethidium bromide-stained gel of total Saccharomyces cerevisiae RNA has an apparent size of about 600 nucleotides. By purifying the band and using it as a probe to screen a genomic library, we isolated and sequenced the unique gene for this RNA. The transcribed sequence, determined to be 519 nucleotides long, contains elements typical of RNA polymerase III transcription. The RNA is predominantly cytoplasmic, so we called it small cytoplasmic RNA 1 (scR1). ScR1 is neither 3'-polyadenylated nor 5'-trimethylguanosine capped. We constructed a null mutation of the gene by deleting 252 base pairs from the transcribed region. Haploid strains carrying the scr1-delta lesion grew very slowly, segregated cytoplasmic petites [( rho-]) at high frequency, and showed signs of aberrant cell division. A secondary structure model for scR1 shows some of the conserved features of the signal recognition particle 7SL RNAs.
Medication burden in the first 5 years following diagnosis of type 2 diabetes: findings from theADDITION-UKtrial cohort
Authors: Black James A , Simmons Rebecca K , Boothby Clare E , Davies Melanie J , Webb David , Khunti Kamlesh , Long Gráinne H , Griffin Simon J
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Individuals with screen-detected diabetes are likely to receive intensified pharmacotherapy to improve glycaemic control and general cardiometabolic health. Individuals are often asymptomatic, and little is known about the degree to which polypharmacy is present both before, and after diagnosis. We aimed to describe and characterize the pharmacotherapy burden of individuals with screen-detected diabetes at diagnosis, 1 and 5 years post-diagnosis.

Methods

The prescription histories of 1026 individuals with screen-detected diabetes enrolled in theADDITION-UKtrial of the promotion of intensive treatment were coded into general medication types at diagnosis, 1 and 5 years post-diagnosis. The association between change in the count of several medication types and age, baseline 10-year UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) cardiovascular disease (CVD risk), sex, intensive treatment group and number of medications was explored.

Results

Just under half of individuals were on drugs unrelated to cardioprotection before diagnosis (42%), and this increased along with a rise in the number of prescribed diabetes-related and cardioprotective drugs. The medication profile over the first 5 years suggests multimorbidity and polypharmacy is present in individuals with screen-detected diabetes. Higher modeled CVD risk at baseline was associated with a greater increase in cardioprotective and diabetes-related medication, but not an increase in other medications.

Conclusion

As recommended in national guidelines, our results suggest that treatment of diabetes was influenced by the underlying risk of CVD. While many individuals did not start glucose lowering and cardioprotective therapies in the first 5 years after diagnosis, more information is required to understand whether this represents unmet need, or patient-centered care.

Trial registration number

CNT00237549.
Minimally important difference estimates and methods: a protocol
Authors: Johnston Bradley C , Ebrahim Shanil , Carrasco-Labra Alonso , Furukawa Toshi A , Patrick Donald L , Crawford Mark W , Hemmelgarn Brenda R , Schunemann Holger J , Guyatt Gordon H , Nesrallah Gihad
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are often the outcomes of greatest importance to patients. The minimally important difference (MID) provides a measure of the smallest change in the PRO that patients perceive as important. An anchor-based approach is the most appropriate method for MID determination. No study or database currently exists that provides all anchor-based MIDs associated with PRO instruments; nor are there any accepted standards for appraising the credibility of MID estimates. Our objectives are to complete a systematic survey of the literature to collect and characterise published anchor-based MIDs associated with PRO instruments used in evaluating the effects of interventions on chronic medical and psychiatric conditions and to assess their credibility.

Methods and analysis

We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO (1989 to present) to identify studies addressing methods to estimate anchor-based MIDs of target PRO instruments or reporting empirical ascertainment of anchor-based MIDs. Teams of two reviewers will screen titles and abstracts, review full texts of citations, and extract relevant data. On the basis of findings from studies addressing methods to estimate anchor-based MIDs, we will summarise the available methods and develop an instrument addressing the credibility of empirically ascertained MIDs. We will evaluate the credibility of all studies reporting on the empirical ascertainment of anchor-based MIDs using the credibility instrument, and assess the instrument's inter-rater reliability. We will separately present reports for adult and paediatric populations.

Ethics and dissemination

No research ethics approval was required as we will be using aggregate data from published studies. Our work will summarise anchor-based methods available to establish MIDs, provide an instrument to assess the credibility of available MIDs, determine the reliability of that instrument, and provide a comprehensive compendium of published anchor-based MIDs associated with PRO instruments which will help improve the interpretability of outcome effects in systematic reviews and practice guidelines.
Effectiveness of multicomponent interventions in primary healthcare settings to promote continuous smoking cessation in adults: a systematic review
Authors: Martín Cantera Carlos , Puigdomènech Elisa , Ballvé Jose Luis , Arias Olga Lucía , Clemente Lourdes , Casas Ramon , Roig Lydia , Pérez-Tortosa Santiago , Díaz-Gete Laura , Granollers Sílvia
Published: October 2015

Objective

The objective of the present review is to evaluate multicomponent/complex primary care (PC) interventions for their effectiveness in continuous smoking abstinence by adult smokers.

Design

A systematic review of randomised and non-randomised controlled trials was undertaken.

Eligibility criteria for included studies

Selected studies met the following criteria: evaluated effects of a multicomponent/complex intervention (with 2 or more intervention components) in achieving at least 6-month abstinence in adult smokers who visited a PC, biochemical confirmation of abstinence, intention-to-treat analysis and results published in English/Spanish.

Methods

We followed PRISMA statement to report the review. We searched the following data sources: MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus (from inception to February 2014), 3 key journals and a tobacco research bulletin. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network checklists were used to evaluate methodological quality. Data selection, evaluation and extraction were done independently, using a paired review approach. Owing to the heterogeneity of interventions in the studies included, a meta-analysis was not conducted.

Results

Of 1147 references identified, 9 studies were selected (10 204 participants, up to 48 months of follow-up, acceptable methodological quality). Methodologies used were mainly individual or group sessions, telephone conversations, brochures or quit-smoking kits, medications and economic incentives for doctors and no-cost medications for smokers. Complex interventions achieved long-term continuous abstinence ranging from 7% to 40%. Behavioural interventions were effective and had a dose–response effect. Both nicotine replacement and bupropion therapy were safe and effective, with no observed differences.

Conclusions

Multicomponent/complex interventions in PC are effective and safe, appearing to achieve greater long-term continuous smoking cessation than usual care and counselling alone. Selected studies were heterogeneous and some had significant losses to follow-up. Our results show that smoking interventions should include more than one component and a strong follow-up of the patient to maximise results.
Genetic structure of Quercus gilva Blume in Japan as revealed by chloroplast DNA sequences
Authors: Sugiura Nami , Tang Dingqin , Kurokochi Hiroyuki , Saito Yoko , Ide Yuji
Published: October 2015

Quercus gilva (Blume) is an evergreen oak species that is native to Japan, China, and Taiwan. Because of a long history of human impact, this species is threatened with extinction in several regions of Japan. The objective of this study was to identify the genetic structure of Q. gilva based on chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) sequencing analysis. We collected 123 samples from 25 populations in Japan, 8 samples from 1 population in China, and 46 samples from 5 populations in Taiwan. Approximately 1815 bp of cpDNA was sequenced for each of the 177 samples. Thirteen haplotypes were detected, with no cross-region distribution of haplotypes among the three geographically separated countries. There were large genetic differences among populations (GST = 0.824, [Formula: see text] = 0.937). Six haplotypes (haplotypes 1, 2, 3, 4a, 4b, and 5) were detected in Japan; haplotype 4a was the most common, detected from 20 populations, and the other rare haplotypes, except for haplotype 4b, occurred at the edge of the species’ distribution. In addition, four haplotypes (haplotypes 1, 2, 3, and 5) were quite different from the predominant haplotype (haplotype 4a), with more than four cpDNA mutations except for a mononucleotide repeat, suggesting that populations with these rare haplotypes should be conserved separately.
Effect of annealing temperature on structural and magnetic properties of strontium hexaferrite nanoparticles synthesized by sol–gel auto-combustion method
Authors: Roohani Ebrahim , Arabi Hadi , Sarhaddi Reza , Sudkhah Saeedeh , Shabani Ameneh
Published: October 2015

In this paper, strontium hexaferrite nanoparticles were synthesized by the sol–gel auto-combustion method. Effect of annealing temperature on crystal structure, morphology and magnetic properties of nanoparticles was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Also, the thermal decomposition of as-synthesized powdered samples has been studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The XRD patterns confirmed the formation of single phase M-type hexagonal crystal structure for powders annealed above 950[Formula: see text]C, whereas the presence of hematite ([Formula: see text]-Fe2O3) as secondary phase was also observed for sample annealed at 900[Formula: see text]C. Furthermore, the crystallinity along with the crystallite size were augmented with annealing temperature. Comparison of the FT-IR spectra of the samples before and after annealing treatment showed the existence of metal–oxygen stretching modes after annealing. The thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the thermal decomposition of as-burnt powders happened in three-stage degradation process. The TEM images showed the nanoparticles like hexagonal-shaped platelets as the size of nanoparticles increases by increasing the annealing temperature. With increasing annealing temperature, the magnetic saturation and the coercivity were increased to the maximum value of 74.26 emu/g and 5.67 kOe for sample annealed at 1000[Formula: see text]C and then decreased.
A transverse Ising bilayer film with an antiferromagnetic spin configuration
Authors: Kaneyoshi T.
Published: October 2015

The phase diagrams and temperature dependences of magnetizations in a transverse Ising bilayer film with an antiferromagnetic spin configuration are studied by the uses of the effective-field theory (EFT) with correlations, in order to clarify whether the appearance of a compensation point is possible below the transition temperature in the system. From these investigations, we have found a lot of characteristic phenomena in these properties, when the value of an interlayer coupling takes a large value, such as the reentrant phenomenon free from the disorder-induced frustration and the novel types of magnetization curve with a compensation point.
Anharmonic phonon–electron effects on phonon density of states in La2−xSrxCuO4
Authors: Ashokan Vinod , Indu B. D.
Published: October 2015

In the present work, the phonon density of states (PDOS) for [Formula: see text] crystal is investigated by using the double time thermodynamic Green’s function method via a non-perturbative approach. A newly formulated Hamiltonian is considered for the lattice dynamics of phonon, which includes the effects of electron–phonon interactions, lattice anharmonicities and the interacting isotopic impurities. The automated emergence of pairons and [Formula: see text] wave pairing mechanism appears as a salient features of the theory. The PDOS is found to be dependent on temperature, impurity concentration, electron–phonon coupling coefficient and renormalized frequencies, and the numerical investigations on PDOS exhibits fairly good agreements with the inelastic neutron scattering experimental observations.
Numerically fitting the electron Fermi energy and the electron fraction in a neutron star
Authors: Li Xing Hu , Gao Zhi Fu , Li Xiang Dong , Xu Yan , Wang Pei , Wang Na , Peng Qiu He
Published: October 2015

Based on the basic definition of the Fermi energy of degenerate and relativistic electrons, we obtain a special solution to the electron Fermi energy, [Formula: see text], and express [Formula: see text] as a function of the electron fraction, [Formula: see text], and matter density, [Formula: see text]. We obtain several useful analytical formula for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] within classical models and the work of Dutra et al. (2014) (Type-2) in relativistic mean-field theory are obtained using numerically fitting. When describing the mean-field Lagrangian, density, we adopt the TMA parameter set, which is remarkably consistent with the updated astrophysical observations of neutron stars (NSs). Due to the importance of the density dependence of the symmetry energy, [Formula: see text], in nuclear astrophysics, a brief discussion on [Formula: see text] and its slop is presented. Combining these fitting formula with boundary conditions for different density regions, we can evaluate the value of [Formula: see text] in any given matter density, and obtain a schematic diagram of [Formula: see text] as a continuous function of [Formula: see text]. Compared with previous studies on the electron Fermi energy in other studies models, our methods of calculating [Formula: see text] are more simple and convenient, and can be universally suitable for the relativistic electron regions in the circumstances of common neutron stars. We have deduced a general expression of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], which could be used to indirectly test whether one equation of state of a NS is correct in our future studies on neutron star matter properties. Since URCA reactions are expected in the center of a massive star due to high-value electron Fermi energy and electron fraction, this study could be useful in the future studies on the NS thermal evolution.
Periodic Algebras Generated by Groups
Authors: Albeverio S. , Omirov B. A. , Rozikov U. A.
Published: October 2015

We consider algebras with basis numerated by elements of a group G. We fix a function f from G × G to a ground field and give a multiplication of the algebra which depends on f. We study the basic properties of such algebras. In particular, we find a condition on f under which the corresponding algebra is a Leibniz algebra. Moreover, for a given subgroup [Formula: see text] of G we define a [Formula: see text]-periodic algebra, which corresponds to a [Formula: see text]-periodic function f, we establish a criterion for the right nilpotency of a [Formula: see text]-periodic algebra. In addition, for G=ℤ we describe all 2ℤ- and 3ℤ-periodic algebras. Some properties of nℤ-periodic algebras are obtained.
On Non-commuting Sets in Certain Finite p-Groups
Authors: Liu Heguo , Wang Yulei
Published: October 2015

Let G be a group. A subset X of G is said to be non-commuting if xy ≠ yx for any x, y ∈ X with x ≠ y. If |X| ≥ |Y| for any other non-commuting set Y in G, then X is said to be a maximal non-commuting set. In this paper, the bound for the cardinality of a maximal non-commuting set in a finite p-group G is determined, where G is a non-abelian p-group given by a central extension as 1 → ℤpm → G → ℤp× ⋯ × ℤp → 1 and its derived subgroup has order p.
Braids with Trivial Simple Centralizer
Authors: Ali U. , Azam F. , Javaid I. , Haider A.
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we prove that the n-simple braid divisible by the generators xi for all 2 ≤ i ≤ n-2 has trivial simple centralizer. Consequently, the commuting graph defined on the set of simple braids is disconnected. We also prove that the graph has one major component.
Indispensable Hibi Relations and Gröbner Bases
Authors: Qureshi Ayesha Asloob
Published: October 2015

In this paper we consider Hibi rings and Rees rings attached to a poset. We classify the ideal lattices of posets whose Hibi relations are indispensable and the ideal lattices of posets whose Hibi relations form a quadratic Gröbner basis with respect to the rank lexicographic order. Similar classifications are obtained for Rees rings of Hibi ideals.
On Annihilator Ideals of Pseudo-differential Operator Rings
Authors: Manaviyat R. , Moussavi A.
Published: October 2015

Let R be a ring with a derivation δ and R((x-1; δ)) denote the pseudo-differential operator ring over R. We study the relations between the set of annihilators in R and the set of annihilators in R((x-1; δ)). Among applications, it is shown that for an Armendariz ring R of pseudo-differential operator type, the ring R((x-1; δ)) is Baer (resp., quasi-Baer, PP, right zip) if and only if R is a Baer (resp., quasi-Baer, PP, right zip) ring. For a δ-weakly rigid ring R, R((x-1; δ)) is a left p.q.-Baer ring if and only if R is left p.q.-Baer and every countable subset of left semicentral idempotents of R has a generalized countable join in R.
C3-Modules
Authors: Amin Ismail , Ibrahim Yasser , Yousif Mohamed
Published: October 2015

One of the continuity conditions identified by Utumi on self-injective rings is the C3-condition, where a module M is called a C3-module if whenever A and B are direct summands of M and A ∩ B=0, then A ⊕ B is a summand of M. In addition to injective and direct-injective modules, the class of C3-modules includes the semisimple, continuous, indecomposable and regular modules. Indeed, every commutative ring is a C3-ring. In this paper we provide a general and unified treatment of the above mentioned classes of modules in terms of the C3-condition, and establish new characterizations of several well known classes of rings.
Transgenic expression of the human growth hormone minigene promotes pancreatic β-cell proliferation
Authors: Baan Mieke , Kibbe Carly R. , Bushkofsky Justin R. , Harris Ted W. , Sherman Dawn S. , Davis Dawn Belt
Published: October 2015

Transgenic mouse models are designed to study the role of specific proteins. To increase transgene expression the human growth hormone (hGH) minigene, including introns, has been included in many transgenic constructs. Until recently, it was thought that the hGH gene was not spliced, transcribed, and translated to produce functional hGH protein. We generated a transgenic mouse with the transcription factor Forkhead box M1 (FoxM1) followed by the hGH minigene, under control of the mouse insulin promoter (MIP) to target expression specifically in the pancreatic β-cell. Expression of FoxM1 in isolated pancreatic islets in vitro stimulates β-cell proliferation. We aimed to investigate the effect of FoxM1 on β-cell mass in a mouse model for diabetes mellitus. However, we found inadvertent coexpression of hGH protein from a spliced, bicistronic mRNA. MIP-FoxM1-hGH mice had lower blood glucose and higher pancreatic insulin content, due to increased β-cell proliferation. hGH signals through the murine prolactin receptor, and expression of its downstream targets tryptophan hydroxylase-1 ( Tph1), tryptophan hydroxylase-2 ( Tph2), and cytokine-inducible SH2 containing protein ( Cish) was increased. Conversely, transcriptional targets of FoxM1 were not upregulated. Our data suggest that the phenotype of MIP-FoxM1-hGH mice is due primarily to hGH activity and that the FoxM1 protein remains largely inactive. Over the past decades, multiple transgenic mouse strains were generated that make use of the hGH minigene to increase transgene expression. Our work suggests that each will need to be carefully screened for inadvertent hGH production and critically evaluated for the use of proper controls.
Eccentric exercise slows in vivo microvascular reactivity during brief contractions in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Larsen Ryan G. , Hirata Rogerio P. , Madzak Adnan , Frøkjær Jens B. , Graven-Nielsen Thomas
Published: October 2015

Unaccustomed exercise involving eccentric contractions results in muscle soreness and an overall decline in muscle function, however, little is known about the effects of eccentric exercise on microvascular reactivity in human skeletal muscle. Fourteen healthy men and women performed eccentric contractions of the dorsiflexor muscles in one leg, while the contralateral leg served as a control. At baseline, and 24 and 48 h after eccentric exercise, the following were acquired bilaterally in the tibialis anterior muscle: 1) transverse relaxation time (T2)-weighted magnetic resonance images to determine muscle cross-sectional area (mCSA) and T2; 2) blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) images during and following brief, maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) to monitor the hyperemic responses with participants positioned supine in a 3T magnet; 3) muscle strength; and 4) pain pressure threshold. Compared with the control leg, eccentric exercise resulted in soreness, decline in strength (∼20%), increased mCSA (∼7%), and prolonged T2 (∼7%) at 24 and 48 h ( P < 0.05). The BOLD response to a brief MVC was altered 24 and 48 h after eccentric exercise, such that time-to-peak (∼35%, P < 0.05) and time-to-half-recovery (∼23%, P < 0.05) were prolonged. The altered contraction-induced hyperemic response suggests slowed microvascular reactivity and altered matching of O2delivery to O2utilization within muscle tissue showing signs of muscle damage. These changes in microvascular regulation after eccentric exercise may impede rapid adjustments in muscle blood flow at exercise onset and during activities involving brief bursts of muscle activation, which may impair O2delivery and contribute to reduced muscle function after eccentric exercise.
Activation of the ALK-5 Pathway is not per se Sufficient for the Antiproliferative Effect of TGF-β1 on Renal Tubule Epithelial Cells
Authors: García-Sánchez Omar , Sancho-Martínez Sandra M. , López-Novoa José Miguel , López-Hernández Francisco J.
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: Defective tissue repair underlies renal tissue degeneration during chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. Unbalanced presence of TGF-β opposes effective cell proliferation and differentiation processes, necessary to replace damaged epithelia. TGF-β also retains arrested cells in a fibrotic phenotype responsible for irreversible scarring. In order to identify prospective molecular targets to prevent the effect of TGF-β during CKD, we studied the signaling pathways responsible for the antiproliferative effect of this cytokine. Methods: Tubule epithelial HK2 and MDCK cells were treated with TGF-β (or not as control) to study cell proliferation (by MTT), cell signaling (by Western blot), cell cycle (by flow cytometry) and apoptosis (DNA fragmentation). Results: TGF-β fully activates the ALK-5 receptor pathway, whereas it has no effect on the ALK-1 and MAPK pathways in both HK2 and MDCK cells. Interestingly, TGF-β exerts an antiproliferative effect only on MDCK cells, through a cytostatic effect in G0/G1. Inhibition of the ALK-5 pathway with SB431542 prevents the cytostatic effect of TGF-β on MDCK cells. Conclusion: Activation of the ALK-5 pathway is not sufficient for the antiproliferative effect of TGF-β. The presence of undetermined permissive conditions or absence of undetermined inhibitory conditions seems to be necessary for this effect. The ALK-5 pathway appears to provide targets to modulate fibrosis, but further research is necessary to identify critical circumstances allowing or inhibiting its role at modulating tubule epithelial cell proliferation and tubule regeneration in the context of CKD progression.
Anti-Inflamm-Aging Effects of Long-Term Caloric Restriction via Overexpression of SIGIRR to Inhibit NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xu Xiao-meng , Ning Yi-Chun , Wang Wen-juan , Liu Jie-qiong , Bai Xue-yuan , Sun Xue-feng , Cai Guang-yan , Chen Xiang-mei
Published: October 2015

Background: Chronic inflammation is thought to be a determinant of the aging rate and longevity. Caloric restriction (CR) attenuates age-related increases in the systemic levels of several pro-inflammatory mediators, but the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of CR in the aging process remain unclear. Methods: Fisher 344 rats in a CR group were fed an amount of food corresponding to 60% of that fed to an ad libitum-fed (AL) group for 8 months. Biochemical analyses and renal pathological grading were used to analyze physiological status. Important signaling molecules in the Toll-like receptor/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (TLR/NF-κB) pathway were also analyzed by western blotting, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Results: 1) Compared with AL feeding, CR decreased aging-mediated increases in both biochemical marker levels and renal pathological grading. 2) Single immunoglobulin IL-1 (IL-1)-related receptor (SIGIRR) expression decreased with increasing age, but CR led to overexpression. 3) The expression of TLR4 was significantly higher in the CR group than in the AL group. 4) SIGIRR overexpression decreased the expression of the adaptor molecules myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), IL-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6). 5) The levels of the inflammatory markers phospho-IκBa and phospho-NF-κB p65 decreased in the CR group. Conclusions: The inflammatory response might be alleviated by SIGIRR via blockade of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Therefore, CR can decrease inflammation via SIGIRR overexpression, and SIGIRR might be a new target to delay aging.
Macrophage Polarization Modulates Development of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Li Feng , Yang Yongsheng , Zhu Xiaohua , Huang Lan , Xu Jinhua
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: Macrophages have recently been shown to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: Here, we used an activated lymphocyte-derived DNA (ALD-DNA) method to induce SLE in mice. We used a macrophage-specific eliminator clodronate to selectively deplete macrophages in mice. We isolated macrophages from bone marrow of the mice and used cytokines to differentiate M1 and M2 macrophages, respectively. Adoptive transplantation of M1 or M2 macrophages was performed in clodronate-treated mice. The effects on SLE were evaluated by serum anti-dsDNA autoantibody, by renal pathological changes, and by urine protein levels. Results: ALD-DNA induced SLE-like features in mice, manifested by induction of serum anti-dsDNA autoantibody, by renal pathological changes, and by increases in urine protein levels. Clodronate significantly decreased macrophages in mice, which significantly increased SLE severity. Adoptive transplantation of M2, but not M1 macrophages significantly reduced SLE severity in clodronate- and ALD-DNA-treated mice. Conclusion: M1 and M2 macrophages play different roles in development of SLE. M1 macrophages increase the severity of SLE, while M2 macrophages reduce it. Modulation of macrophage polarity may be an attractive therapy for SLE.
MicroRNA-199a-5p Regulates the Proliferation of Pulmonary Microvascular Endothelial Cells in Hepatopulmonary Syndrome
Authors: Zeng Jing , Chen Lin , Chen Bing , Lu Kaizhi , Belguise Karine , Wang Xiaobo , Yi Bin
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: Pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell (PMVEC) proliferation and angiogenesis contribute to the development of hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS). MicroRNA-199a-5p (miR-199a-5p) has emerged as a potent regulator of angiogenesis, and its expression levels significantly decrease in the serum of patients with hepatopathy. However, it has not been reported about whether miR-199a-5p might control PMVEC proliferation. Here, we described the miR-199a-5p governing PMVEC proliferation in HPS. Methods: PMVECs were treated with rat serum from common bile duct ligation (CBDL) or sham. MiR-199a-5p mimic or inhibitor was used to change the miR-199a-5p expression. Knockdown of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) was performed using siRNA. NSC-23766 was used to inhibit Rac1 activity. Gene and protein expressions were quantified by qRT-PCR and western blot. Cell proliferation was analyzed by 3H-TdR incorporation and CCK-8 assays. Stress fibers were detected by immunofluorescence. Results: CBDL rat serum induced the down-regulation of miR-199a-5p. Delivery of miR-199a-5p suppressed the CBDL rat serum-induced PMVEC proliferation whereas knockdown of miR-199a-5p promoted PMVEC proliferation. This was accompanied by a decrease and an increase in Cav-1 expression, respectively. Cav-1 siRNA abolished the enhancement of PMVEC proliferation induced by the miR-199a-5p inhibition. Although stress fibers were disrupted in Cav-1 deficient cells, NSC-23766 increased stress fibers and contributed to cell proliferation. Conclusions: CBDL rat serum induced down-regulation of miR-199a-5p in PMVECs, which led to an increase of Cav-1 gene expression. Increased Cav-1 expression, by inhibiting Rac1 activity, led to the formation of stress fibers, which contribute to PMVEC proliferation and thus the pathogenesis of HPS.
Folivory as a Constraint on Social Behaviour of Langurs in South India
Authors: Kavana Theethira S. , Erinjery Joseph J. , Singh Mewa
Published: October 2015

Folivory, being a dietary constraint, can affect the social time of colobines. In the present study, we compared food items and activity budgets of two closely related species of colobines inhabiting South India, i.e. the Hanuman langur (Semnopithecus hypoleucos) and Nilgiri langur (Semnopithecus johnii), to determine whether folivory had an impact on social time in these species. Our study established that Nilgiri langurs were more folivorous than Hanuman langurs. Nilgiri langurs spent much less time on social activities, but more time on resting, although the social organization of S. hypoleucos was similar to that of the Nilgiri langur. The enforced resting time for fermentation of leafy food items may have reduced the time available for social interactions, which in turn affected the social time in Nilgiri langurs. By comparing the data from previous studies on other Hanuman langur species, we found that S. hypoleucos spent a similar amount of time on social activities as Semnopithecus entellus. Hence, the social behaviour of S. entellus and S. hypoleucos is phylogenetically highly conservative.