bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-determination and gender–power relations as predictors of condom use self-efficacy among South African women
Authors: Mpondo Feziwe , Ruiter Robert AC , van den Borne Bart , Reddy Priscilla S
Published: August 2015

This article identifies correlates of condom use self-efficacy using concepts from self-determination theory and gender–power measures. A cross-section of Xhosa-speaking women ( n = 238) from Eastern Cape, South Africa, was used to conduct bivariate correlations and multivariate linear regression analyses. Gender equality beliefs and HIV knowledge were positively associated with condom use self-efficacy generally and in risky situations. Condom use self-efficacy generally was also positively associated with power balance attitudes, negative beliefs about intimate partner violence, and positive growth perspective, while the association with hopeless personal perspective was negative. Surprisingly, lack of social support was positively associated with condom use self-efficacy in risky situations. The predictors of condom use self-efficacy identified in this study that may serve as change objectives for future sexual health promotion interventions.
Giant left ventricular pseudoaneurysm following myocardial infarction
Authors: Imoto Kazuyo , Kawahito Koji , Misawa Yoshio
Published: August 2015

A 56-year-old man was readmitted to our hospital because of cardiac silhouette enlargement. One month before admission, he suffered cardiac tamponade due to an oozing rupture of the left ventricle 4 days after an acute posterior myocardial infarction and was salvaged by pericardial drainage. Upon readmission, computed tomography revealed a giant pseudoaneurysm (105 × 85 × 75 mm3) in the posterior wall of the left ventricle. The patient underwent aneurysmal repair successfully.
The association between rotational thromboelastometry parameters and blood loss after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Bosch Yvonne PJ , Weerwind Patrick W , ten Cate Hugo , Henskens Yvonne MC , Nelemans Patty J , Dieri Raed Al , Maessen Jos G , Mochtar Baheramsjah
Published: August 2015

Background:

The objectives of this study were to investigate the changes in routine laboratory tests and rotational thromboelastometry variables after cardiopulmonary bypass and to investigate the association of these variables with postoperative blood loss.

Methods:

Blood was obtained at baseline, at admission to the intensive care unit, and at the first postoperative day. Rotational thromboelastometry tests and measurements of haemoglobin, haematocrit, platelet count, and plasma fibrinogen level (Clauss method) were performed. Excessive bleeding was defined as >1000 mL of chest tube drainage after surgery within 24 h.

Results:

After cardiopulmonary bypass, haemotocrit was decreased by 21%. Platelet count and fibrinogen level decreased more (35% and 42%, respectively). The largest change was found for clot formation time of INTEM (intrinsically activated coagulation) (+73%). Platelet count was not reflected by maximal clot firmness of PLATEM (platelet component specific coagulation). The decreases in FIBTEM (fibrinogen specific coagulation) maximum clot firmness and fibrinogen at the intensive care unit admission were comparable. Test results outside the reference range were associated with higher median blood loss when compared to values within the reference range, with most significant association for fibrinogen (p < 0.001) and FIBTEM maximal clot firmness (p = 0.016). At baseline, the ability of rotational thromboelastometry parameters to predict postoperative blood loss >1000 mL is higher than the predictive value of fibrinogen (area under the curve = 0.642; 95% confidence interval: 0.487–0.796), but only areas under the curve of APTEM (extrinsically activated coagulation with exclusion of fibrinolysis component) were significantly higher (p⩽0.05). At intensive care unit admission, the highest area under the curve was 0.689 (95% confidence interval: 0.549–0.828) for FIBTEM maximum clot firmness.

Conclusion:

Rotational thromboelastometry could be a useful point-of-care method to monitor haemostasis because it is a faster and more informative method, and it has a slightly higher predictive ability for blood loss compared to fibrinogen.
SLAP Repairs With Combined Procedures Have Lower Failure Rate Than Isolated Repairs in a Military Population
Authors: Waterman Brian R. , Arroyo William , Heida Kenneth , Burks Robert , Pallis Mark
Published: August 2015

Background:

Injuries to the superior glenoid labrum represent a significant cause of shoulder pain among active patients. The physical requirements of military service may contribute to an increased risk of injury. Limited data are available regarding the success of superior labral anterior posterior (SLAP) repairs in an active military population.

Purpose:

To quantify the rate of clinical failure and surgical revision after isolated and combined SLAP repair.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

All consecutive active-duty servicemembers undergoing arthroscopic repair of type II SLAP lesions at a single institution between 2006 and 2012 were identified. Patients with less than 2-year clinical follow-up and nonmilitary status were excluded. Demographic variables, surgical variables, and occupational outcomes were extracted from electronic medical records and confirmed with the US Army Physical Disability Agency database. Failure was defined as subsequent revision surgery or medical discharge with persistent shoulder complaints.

Results:

A total of 192 patients with SLAP repair were identified with a mean follow-up of 50.0 months (SD, 17.0 months). Isolated SLAP repair occurred in 31.3% (n = 60) versus 68.8% (n = 132) with concomitant procedures. At final follow-up, 37.0% (n = 71) of patients reported some subjective activity-related shoulder pain. Postoperative return to duty occurred in 79.6% (n = 153), and only 20.3% (n = 39) were discharged with continuing shoulder disability. The combined rotator cuff repair (96%; P = .023) and anteroinferior labral repair group (88%; P = .056) had a higher rate of functional return than isolated SLAP repair (70%). Thirty-one (16.1%) patients were classified as surgical failure and required revision. Of these, the majority of patients undergoing biceps tenodesis (76%) returned to active duty, as compared with revision SLAP repair (17%). Lower demand occupation and the presence of combined shoulder injuries ( P = .011 and .016, respectively) were significantly associated with a lower risk of medical discharge and revision surgery, respectively.

Conclusion:

Favorable outcomes can be anticipated in the majority of military servicemembers after arthroscopic SLAP repair, particularly with combined shoulder injuries. Revision surgery occurred in 16% of patients after primary SLAP repair.

Clinical Relevance:

Isolated repair of unstable SLAP lesions and/or increased upper extremity demands are associated with higher failure rates in this population.
Situating and Constructing Diversity in Semi-Structured Interviews
Authors: McIntosh Michele J. , Morse Janice M.
Published: August 2015

Although semi-structured interviews (SSIs) are used extensively in research, scant attention is given to their diversity, underlying assumptions, construction, and broad applications to qualitative and mixed-method research. In this three-part article, we discuss the following: (a) how the SSI is situated historically including its evolution and diversification, (b) the principles of constructing SSIs, and (c) how SSIs are utilized as a stand-alone research method, and as strategy within a mixed-method design.
Evaluation of Quality of Life and Safety of Seniors in Golestan Province, Iran
Authors: Farzianpour Fereshteh , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi , Badakhshan Abbas , Gholipour Mahin , Hosseini Masoumeh
Published: August 2015

This study evaluated the criteria for quality of life (QoL) using standardized short-form health survey with only 36 questions (SF-36; Version 2.0) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) questionnaires to study the relationship between QoL and living conditions of seniors in Golestan province in Iran. This was an analytical cross-sectional study with descriptive and analytical parts. The population was individuals above 65 years of age in Golestan province in Iran. The sample size was calculated based on the correlation coefficient; a correlation of .2 or greater was considered statistically significant at 80% for the power of the test at the 95% confidence level. The data on QoL of seniors were collected by interview and observation using the CPSC questionnaire for nursing homes and the SF-36 for QoL health indicators. The reliability of the CPSC questionnaire was estimated using Cronbach’s alpha with a coefficient of .838. The SF-36 questionnaire was validated with Cronbach’s alpha with a coefficient of .95. Chi-square and logistic regression were used to interpret the probability of abnormal QoL between levels of independent predictors. The percentage of seniors in overall poor health as a binary outcome was 43.5, and the percentage of unsafe conditions was 49.8.
Cavafy in Poland
Authors: Kruczkowska Joanna
Published: August 2015

Despite the diversity of Modern Greek poetry available in Polish translation, Cavafy's work has eclipsed the achievements of other poets, just as the shadow of his lifelong translator, Zygmunt Kubiak, has inhibited other attempts only starting to surface in the twenty-first century. While external factors have determined Modern Greek anthologies in Poland, Cavafy translation has been mostly driven by personal passion. Apart from translation, this article reflects on various reasons why the Alexandrian's work should be so attractive to the Polish literary scene. Cavafy's seminal place within Polish literature stimulates further reflection on rewriting Cavafy in Poland.
Multipass pulsed current gas metal arc welding of P91 steel
Authors: Krishnan S. , Kulkarni D. V. , De A.
Published: August 2015

Conventional gas metal arc welding of modified 9Cr–1Mo steels referred to as P91 steels is considered difficult due to loss of alloying elements and degradation of weld joint properties. In comparison to the conventional process, pulsed current gas metal arc welding allows more accurate control of heat input per unit length and electrode deposition and, thus, can be more suitable for the joining of P91 steel. A detailed experimental study is therefore undertaken to examine the roles of welding current, speed and groove angle in the weld bead profiles and joint properties in multipass pulsed current gas metal arc welding of 12 mm thick P91 steel. The results show that the joint properties are strongly influenced by the heat input per unit length and the groove angle. A groove angle of 75° and an appropriate choice of process conditions resulted in fairly acceptable bead profiles and joint properties.
The Bom Santo Cave (Lisbon, Portugal): Catchment, Diet, and Patterns of Mobility of a Middle Neolithic Population
Authors: Carvalho António Faustino , Alves-Cardoso Francisca , Gonçalves David , Granja Raquel , Cardoso João Luís , Dean Rebecca M. , Gibaja Juan Francisco , Masucci Maria A. , Arroyo-Pardo Eduardo , Fernández-Domínguez Eva , Petchey Fiona , Douglas Price T. , Mateus José Eduardo , Queiroz Paula Fernanda , Callapez Pedro , Pimenta Carlos , Regala Frederico T.
Published: August 2015

The study of the Bom Santo Cave (central Portugal), a Neolithic cemetery, indicates a complex social, palaeoeconomic, and population scenario. With isotope, aDNA, and provenance analyses of raw materials coupled with stylistic variability of material culture items and palaeogeographical data, light is shed on the territory and social organization of a population dated to 3800–3400 cal BC, i.e. the Middle Neolithic. Results indicate an itinerant farming, segmentary society, where exogamic practices were the norm. Its lifeway may be that of the earliest megalithic builders of the region, but further research is needed to correctly evaluate the degree of this community's participation in such a phenomenon.
Interfacial heat transfer during hot metal forming operations assuming scale failure effects
Authors: Krzyzanowski M. , Beynon J. H.
Published: August 2015

Analysis of real contact area and thermal resistance combined with experimentally derived interfacial heat transfer coefficient values led to the development of an advanced finite element based model to simulate the heat transfer at the oxidised tool/workpiece interface during hot steel rolling. An extensive progress review and building on the Sellars 1990's core assumptions are discussed. Today, oxide scale failure is predicted, taking into account the main physical phenomena such as stress directed diffusion, fracture and adhesion of the oxide scale. The separation loads within the scale metal/system are measured during testing. They are sensitive to the chemical composition of steel. The assumption of several parallel heat flow systems at the roll/stock interface remains the core model for today's research.
Corrosion performance of epoxy/BTESPT/MAO coating on AZ31 alloy
Authors: Chen M.-A. , Ou Y.-C. , Yu C.-Y. , Xiao C. , Liu S.-Y.
Published: August 2015

To enhance the anticorrosion property of epoxy/microarc oxidation (MAO) coating on AZ31 magnesium alloy, bis-(triethoxysilylpropyl)tetrasulphide silane is chosen for surface pretreatment to the MAO coating. Fourier transform infrared, SEM, electrochemical tests and immersion test were used to investigate the structure and corrosion performance of the coatings. The results show that the anticorrosion property of the epoxy/MAO coating on AZ31 magnesium alloy can be improved effectively by the silane pretreatment to MAO coating.
Lack of glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) deregulates B-cell survival and results in B-cell lymphocytosis in mice
Authors: Bruscoli Stefano , Biagioli Michele , Sorcini Daniele , Frammartino Tiziana , Cimino Monica , Sportoletti Paolo , Mazzon Emanuela , Bereshchenko Oxana , Riccardi Carlo
Published: August 2015

Key Points

GILZ-deficient mice develop B-cell lymphocytosis. GILZ deficiency precludes GC-mediated B-cell apoptosis.
IL-1β, in contrast to TNFα, is pivotal in blood-induced cartilage damage and is a potential target for therapy
Authors: van Vulpen Lize F. D. , Schutgens Roger E. G. , Coeleveld Katja , Alsema Els C. , Roosendaal Goris , Mastbergen Simon C. , Lafeber Floris P. J. G.
Published: August 2015

Key Points

Blood-induced joint damage is fully prevented by blocking IL-1β with a monoclonal antibody or receptor antagonist, not by TNFα blockade. IL-1β blockade prevents release of IL-6 but not TNFα from monocyte/macrophages, whereas TNFα blockade does not affect IL-1β or IL-6 release.
Multicenter study of combination DEP regimen as a salvage therapy for adult refractory hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Wang Yini , Huang Wenqiu , Hu Liangding , Cen Xinan , Li Lihong , Wang Jijun , Shen Jianliang , Wei Na , Wang Zhao
Published: August 2015

Key Points

A salvage therapy for adults with refractory hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Liposomal doxorubicin treatment combined with etoposide and methylprednisolone showed an encouraging overall response and was well-tolerated.
Molecular prediction of durable remission after first-line fludarabine-cyclophosphamide-rituximab in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Rossi Davide , Terzi-di-Bergamo Lodovico , De Paoli Lorenzo , Cerri Michaela , Ghilardi Guido , Chiarenza Annalisa , Bulian Pietro , Visco Carlo , Mauro Francesca R. , Morabito Fortunato , Cortelezzi Agostino , Zaja Francesco , Forconi Francesco , Laurenti Luca , Del Giudice Ilaria , Gentile Massimo , Vincelli Iolanda , Motta Marina , Coscia Marta , Rigolin Gian Matteo , Tedeschi Alessandra , Neri Antonino , Marasca Roberto , Perbellini Omar , Moreno Carol , Del Poeta Giovanni , Massaia Massimo , Zinzani Pier Luigi , Montillo Marco , Cuneo Antonio , Gattei Valter , Foà Robin , Gaidano Gianluca
Published: August 2015

Key Points

CLL patients harboring mutated IGHV genes but neither 11q or 17p deletion experience durable remission after frontline FCR.
Erythroferrone contributes to hepcidin suppression and iron overload in a mouse model of β-thalassemia
Authors: Kautz Léon , Jung Grace , Du Xin , Gabayan Victoria , Chapman Justin , Nasoff Marc , Nemeth Elizabeta , Ganz Tomas
Published: August 2015

Inherited anemias with ineffective erythropoiesis, such as β-thalassemia, manifest inappropriately low hepcidin production and consequent excessive absorption of dietary iron, leading to iron overload. Erythroferrone (ERFE) is an erythroid regulator of hepcidin synthesis and iron homeostasis. Erfe expression was highly increased in the marrow and spleen of HbbTh3/+ mice (Th3/+), a mouse model of thalassemia intermedia. Ablation of Erfe in Th3/+ mice restored normal levels of circulating hepcidin at 6 weeks of age, suggesting ERFE could be a factor suppressing hepcidin production in β-thalassemia. We examined the expression of Erfe and the consequences of its ablation in thalassemic mice from 3 to 12 weeks of age. The loss of ERFE in thalassemic mice led to full restoration of hepcidin mRNA expression at 3 and 6 weeks of age, and significant reduction in liver and spleen iron content at 6 and 12 weeks of age. Ablation of Erfe slightly ameliorated ineffective erythropoiesis, as indicated by reduced spleen index, red cell distribution width, and mean corpuscular volume, but did not improve the anemia. Thus, ERFE mediates hepcidin suppression and contributes to iron overload in a mouse model of β-thalassemia.
Phylogeny and biogeography of Primula sect. Armerina: implications for plant evolution under climate change and the uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Ren Guangpeng , Conti Elena , Salamin Nicolas
Published: August 2015

Background

The historical orogenesis and associated climatic changes of mountain areas have been suggested to partly account for the occurrence of high levels of biodiversity and endemism. However, their effects on dispersal, differentiation and evolution of many groups of plants are still unknown. In this study, we examined the detailed diversification history ofPrimulasect.Armerina, and used biogeographic analysis and macro-evolutionary modeling to investigate a series of different questions concerning the evolution of the geographical and ecological distribution of the species in this section.

Results

We sequenced five chloroplast and one nuclear genes for species ofPrimulasect.Armerina. Neither chloroplast nor nuclear trees support the monophyly of the section. The major incongruences between the two trees occur among closely related species and may be explained by hybridization. Our dating analyses based on the chloroplast dataset suggest that this section began to diverge from its relatives around 3.55 million years ago, largely coinciding with the last major uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). Biogeographic analysis supports the origin of the section in the Himalayan Mountains and dispersal from the Himalayas to Northeastern QTP, Western QTP and Hengduan Mountains. Furthermore, evolutionary models of ecological niches show that the twoP. fasciculataclades have significantly different climatic niche optima and rates of niche evolution, indicating niche evolution under climatic changes and further providing evidence for explaining their biogeographic patterns.

Conclusion

Our results support the hypothesis that geologic and climatic events play important roles in driving biological diversification of organisms in the QTP area. The Pliocene uplift of the QTP and following climatic changes most likely promoted both the inter- and intraspecific divergence ofPrimulasect.Armerina.This study also illustrates how niche evolution under climatic changes influences biogeographic patterns.
Molecular phylogeny of Squaliformes and first occurrence of bioluminescence in sharks
Authors: Straube Nicolas , Li Chenhong , Claes Julien M. , Corrigan Shannon , Naylor Gavin J. P.
Published: August 2015

Background

Squaliform sharks represent approximately 27 % of extant shark diversity, comprising more than 130 species with a predominantly deep-dwelling lifestyle. Many Squaliform species are highly specialized, including some that are bioluminescent, a character that is reported exclusively from Squaliform sharks within Chondrichthyes. The interfamiliar relationships within the order are still not satisfactorily resolved. Herein we estimate the phylogenetic interrelationships of a generic level sampling of “squaloid” sharks and closely related taxa using aligned sequences derived from a targeted gene capture approach. The resulting phylogenetic estimate is further used to evaluate the age of first occurrence of bioluminescence in Squaliformes.

Results

Our dataset comprised 172 putative ortholog exon sequences. Phylogenetic estimates result in a fully resolved tree supporting a monophyletic lineage of Squaliformes excluding Echinorhinus. Non-luminous Squalidae are inferred to be the sister to a clade comprising all remaining Squaliform families. Our results suggest that the origin of photophores is coincident with an elevated diversification rate and the splitting of families Dalatiidae, Etmopteridae, Oxynotidae and Somniosidae at the transition of the Lower to the Upper Cretaceous. The presence of luminous organs was confirmed for the Sleeper shark genus Zameus. These results indicate that bioluminescence in sharks is not restricted solely to the families Etmopteridae and Dalatiidae as previously believed.

Conclusions

The sister-clade to non-luminous Squalidae comprises five families. The presence of photophores is reported for extant members of three out of these five families based on results of this study, i.e. Lantern sharks (Etmopteridae), Kitefin sharks (Dalatiidae) and Sleeper sharks (Somniosidae). Our results suggest that the origin of luminous organs arose during the rapid diversification event that gave rise to the extant Squaliform families. These inferences are consistent with the idea of diversification of Squaliform sharks being associated with the emergence of new deep-sea habitats in the Lower Cretaceous, which may have been facilitated by the evolution of bioluminescence.
Prevalence and microbiological characteristics of clinically infected foot‐ulcers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a retrospective exploratory study
Authors: Fitzgerald Pauline , Siddle Heidi J. , Backhouse Michael R. , Nelson E. Andrea
Published: August 2015

Background

The prevalence of foot ulcers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been reported at almost 10 %. These foot ulcers often occur at multiple sites and are reoccurring, with the potential risk of infection increased due to RA diagnosis and disease modifying medications. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of clinical infection in foot‐ulcers of patients with RA; describe the microbiological characteristics and investigate risk factors.

Methods

Retrospective clinical data was collected for all patients attending a rheumatology foot ulcer clinic between 1st May 2012 and 1st May 2013: wound swab data was collected from those with clinical infection.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients with RA and foot‐ulcers were identified; eight of these patients had clinical infection and wound swabs taken (29 %).

Of these eight patients there were equal men and women, with median age 74 years, and average disease duration 22 years.

Cardiovascular disease/peripheral‐vascular disease (CVD/PVD) were reported in six patients, diabetes in two patients.

Six patients were treated with disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARDs); three were on biologic medications and two on steroids.

Five wound swabs cultured skin flora, one staphylococcus aureus, one had no growth after culture; and one was rejected due to labelling error.

Conclusion

Almost a third of people with RA and foot ulcers attending clinic over one year had clinical infection, however microbiological analysis failed to isolate pathogens in six of seven wound swabs. This may be due to inaccurate diagnosis of ulcer infection or to issues with sampling, collection, transport, analysis or reporting. There was insufficient data to relate risk of clinical infection with risk factors.

Further research is required to identify the most appropriate techniques for infection diagnosis, wound sampling and processing.

Trial registration

Ethical approval was obtained from University of Leeds, Faculty of Medicine and Health (Reference number: SHREC/RP/349).
The association between periodontal disease and metabolic syndrome among outpatients with diabetes in Jordan
Authors: Alhabashneh Rola , Khader Yousef , herra Zaid , Asa’ad Farah
Published: August 2015

Background

To date, conflicting results have been reported about the association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and periodonttitis.

Methods

Two hundred and eighty patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited from outpatients visiting diabetes clinics in Islamic Hospital, Amman-Jordan. The oral hygiene and the periodontal status of all teeth, excluding third molars, were assessed using the plaque index of Silness and Löe, the gingival index of Löe and Silness, probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). Data were analyzed using the general linear model multivariate procedure with average PPD, average CAL, percent of teeth with CAL ≥3 mm, and percent of teeth with PPD ≥3 mm as outcome variables and diabetes, MetS and its individual components as predictors.

Results

Overall, 83.2 % of patients with diabetes had MetS. In the multivariate analysis, patients with MetS had a significantly more severe periodontitis, as measured by average PPD and average CAL (P < 0.005). The extent of periodontitis, as measured by the percent of teeth with CAL ≥3 mm and the percent of teeth with PPD ≥3 mm, was also significantly greater among patients with MetS (P < 0.005). As the number of metabolic components additional to diabetes increased, the odds of having periodontitis increased, and the odds were greatest when all the components additional to diabetes were present (OR = 10.77, 95 % CI: 2.23 -51.95).

Conclusion

Patients with MetS displayed more severe and extensive periodontitis. Having other MetS components additional to diabetes increased the odds of having periodontitis.
Criminal justice pathways to psychiatric care for
psychosis
Authors: Bhui Kamaldeep , Ullrich Simone , Kallis Constantinos , Coid Jeremy W.
Published: August 2015

Background

Some patients are at higher risk of contact with criminal justice
agencies when experiencing a first episode of psychosis.

Aims

To investigate whether violence explains criminal justice pathways (CJPs)
for psychosis in general, and ethnic vulnerability to CJPs.

Method

Two-year population-based survey of people presenting with a
first-episode of psychosis. A total of 481 patients provided information
on pathways to psychiatric care. The main outcome was a CJP at first
contact compared with other services on the care pathway.

Results

CJPs were more common if there was violence at first presentation (odds
ratio (OR) = 4.23, 95% CI 2.74–6.54, P<0.001), drug
use in the previous year (OR = 2.28, 95% CI 1.50–3.48,
P<0.001) and for high psychopathy scores (OR = 2.54,
95% CI 1.43–4.53, P = 0.002). Compared with White
British, CJPs were more common among Black Caribbean (OR = 2.97, 95% CI
1.54–5.72, P<0.001) and Black African patients (OR =
1.95, 95% CI 1.02–3.72, P = 0.01). Violence mediated
30.2% of the association for Black Caribbeans, but was not a mediator for
Black African patients. These findings were sustained after adjustment
for age, marital status, gender and employment.

Conclusions

CJPs were more common in violent presentations, for greater psychopathy
levels and drug use. Violence presentations did not fully explain ethnic
vulnerability to CJPs.
E4-Ubiquitin ligase Ufd2 stabilizes Yap8 and modulates arsenic stress responses independent of the U-box motif
Authors: Ferreira Rita T. , Menezes Regina A. , Rodrigues-Pousada Claudina
Published: August 2015

Adaptation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells to arsenic stress is mediated through the activation of arsenic detoxification machinery by the Yap8 transcription factor. Yap8 is targeted by the ubiquitin proteasome system for degradation under physiological conditions, yet it escapes proteolysis in arsenic-injured cells by a mechanism that remains to be elucidated. Here, we show that Ufd2, an E4-Ubiquitin (Ub) ligase, is upregulated by arsenic compounds both at mRNA and protein levels. Under these conditions, Ufd2 interacts with Yap8 mediating its stabilization, thereby controlling expression of ACR3 and capacity of cells to adapt to arsenic injury. We also show that Ufd2 U-box domain, which is associated to the ubiquitination activity of specific ubiquitin ligases, is dispensable for Yap8 stability and has no role in cell tolerance to arsenic stress. Thus, our data disclose a novel Ufd2 role beyond degradation. This finding is further supported by genetic analyses showing that proteins belonging to Ufd2 proteolytic pathways, namely Ubc4, Rad23 and Dsk2, mediate Yap8 degradation.
Enhancer of zeste acts as a major developmental regulator ofCiona intestinalisembryogenesis
Authors: Le Goff Emilie , Martinand-Mari Camille , Martin Marianne , Feuillard Jérôme , Boublik Yvan , Godefroy Nelly , Mangeat Paul , Baghdiguian Stephen , Cavalli Giacomo
Published: August 2015

The paradigm of developmental regulation by Polycomb group (PcG) proteins posits that they maintain silencing outside the spatial expression domains of their target genes, particularly of Hox genes, starting from mid embryogenesis. The Enhancer of zeste [E(z)] PcG protein is the catalytic subunit of the PRC2 complex, which silences its targets via deposition of the H3K27me3 mark. Here, we studied the ascidian Ciona intestinalis counterpart of E(z). Ci-E(z) is detected by immunohistochemistry as soon as the 2- and 4-cell stages as a cytoplasmic form and becomes exclusively nuclear thereafter, whereas the H3K27me3 mark is detected starting from the gastrula stage and later. Morpholino invalidation of Ci-E(z) leads to the total disappearance of both Ci-E(z) protein and its H3K27me3 mark. Ci-E(z) morphants display a severe phenotype. Strikingly, the earliest defects occur at the 4-cell stage with the dysregulation of cell positioning and mitotic impairment. At later stages, Ci-E(z)-deficient embryos are affected by terminal differentiation defects of neural, epidermal and muscle tissues, by the failure to form a notochord and by the absence of caudal nerve. These major phenotypic defects are specifically rescued by injection of a morpholino-resistant Ci-E(z) mRNA, which restores expression of Ci-E(z) protein and re-deposition of the H3K27me3 mark. As observed by qPCR analyses, Ci-E(z) invalidation leads to the early derepression of tissue-specific developmental genes, whereas late-acting developmental genes are generally down-regulated. Altogether, our results suggest that Ci-E(z) plays a major role during embryonic development in Ciona intestinalis by silencing early-acting developmental genes in a Hox-independent manner.
Flagellar membranes are rich in raft-forming phospholipids
Authors: Serricchio Mauro , Schmid Adrien W. , Steinmann Michael E. , Sigel Erwin , Rauch Monika , Julkowska Daria , Bonnefoy Serge , Fort Cécile , Bastin Philippe , Bütikofer Peter
Published: August 2015

The observation that the membranes of flagella are enriched in sterols and sphingolipids has led to the hypothesis that flagella might be enriched in raft-forming lipids. However, a detailed lipidomic analysis of flagellar membranes is not available. Novel protocols to detach and isolate intact flagella from Trypanosoma brucei procyclic forms in combination with reverse-phase liquid chromatography high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry allowed us to determine the phospholipid composition of flagellar membranes relative to whole cells. Our analyses revealed that phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, ceramide and the sphingolipids inositol phosphorylceramide and sphingomyelin are enriched in flagella relative to whole cells. In contrast, phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylinositol are strongly depleted in flagella. Within individual glycerophospholipid classes, we observed a preference for ether-type over diacyl-type molecular species in membranes of flagella. Our study provides direct evidence for a preferential presence of raft-forming phospholipids in flagellar membranes of T. brucei.
The study of the Bithorax-complex genes in patterning CCAP neurons reveals a temporal control of neuronal differentiation by Abd-B
Authors: Moris-Sanz M. , Estacio-Gómez A. , Sánchez-Herrero E. , Díaz-Benjumea F. J.
Published: August 2015

During development, HOX genes play critical roles in the establishment of segmental differences. In the Drosophila central nervous system, these differences are manifested in the number and type of neurons generated by each neuroblast in each segment. HOX genes can act either in neuroblasts or in postmitotic cells, and either early or late in a lineage. Additionally, they can be continuously required during development or just at a specific stage. Moreover, these features are generally segment-specific. Lately, it has been shown that contrary to what happens in other tissues, where HOX genes define domains of expression, these genes are expressed in individual cells as part of the combinatorial codes involved in cell type specification. In this report we analyse the role of the Bithorax-complex genes – Ultrabithorax, abdominal-A and Abdominal-B – in sculpting the pattern of crustacean cardioactive peptide (CCAP)-expressing neurons. These neurons are widespread in invertebrates, express CCAP, Bursicon and MIP neuropeptides and play major roles in controlling ecdysis. There are two types of CCAP neuron: interneurons and efferent neurons. Our results indicate that Ultrabithorax and Abdominal-A are not necessary for specification of the CCAP-interneurons, but are absolutely required to prevent the death by apoptosis of the CCAP-efferent neurons. Furthermore, Abdominal-B controls by repression the temporal onset of neuropeptide expression in a subset of CCAP-efferent neurons, and a peak of ecdysone hormone at the end of larval life counteracts this repression. Thus, Bithorax complex genes control the developmental appearance of these neuropeptides both temporally and spatially.
Sex-specific dysregulation of cysteine oxidation and the methionine and folate cycles in female cystathionine gamma-lyase null mice: a serendipitous model of the methylfolate trap
Authors: Jiang Hua , Hurt K. Joseph , Breen Kelsey , Stabler Sally P. , Allen Robert H. , Orlicky David J. , Maclean Kenneth N.
Published: August 2015

In addition to its role in the endogenous synthesis of cysteine, cystathionine gamma-lyase (CGL) is a major physiological source of the vasorelaxant hydrogen sulfide. Cgl null mice are potentially useful for studying the influence of this compound upon vascular tone and endothelial function. Here, we confirm a previous report that female Cgl null mice exhibit an approximate 45-fold increase in plasma total homocysteine compared to wild type controls. This level of homocysteine is approximately 3.5-fold higher than that observed in male Cgl null mice and is essentially equivalent to that observed in mouse models of cystathionine beta synthase deficient homocystinuria. Cgl null mice of both sexes exhibited decreased expression of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase and cysteinesulfinate decarboxylase compared to WT controls. Female Cgl null mice exhibited a sex-specific induction of betaine homocysteine S-methyltransferase and methionine adenosyltransferase 1, alpha and a 70% decrease in methionine synthase expression accompanied by significantly decreased plasma methionine. Decreased plasma cysteine levels in female Cgl null mice were associated with sex-specific dysregulation of cysteine dioxygenase expression. Comparative histological assessment between cystathionine beta-synthase and Cgl null mice indicated that the therapeutic potential of cystathionine against liver injury merits possible further investigation. Collectively, our data demonstrates the importance of considering sex when investigating mouse models of inborn errors of metabolism and indicate that while female Cgl null mice are of questionable utility for studying the physiological role of hydrogen sulfide, they could serve as a useful model for studying the consequences of methionine synthase deficiency and the methylfolate trap.
Altering lamina assembly identifies lamina-dependent and -independent functions for A-type lamins
Authors: Zwerger Monika , Roschitzki-Voser Heidi , Zbinden Reto , Denais Celine , Herrmann Harald , Lammerding Jan , Grütter Markus G. , Medalia Ohad
Published: August 2015

Lamins are intermediate filament proteins forming a fibrous meshwork, called nuclear lamina, between the inner nuclear membrane and peripheral heterochromatin of metazoan cells. The assembly and incorporation of lamin A/C into the lamina as well as their various functions are still not well understood. Here, we employed designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins) as novel experimental tools for lamin research. We screened for DARPins that specifically bind lamin A/C, interfere with lamin assembly in vitro, and with incorporation of lamin A/C into the native lamina in living cells. Selected DARPins inhibit lamin assembly and delocalize A-type lamins to the nucleoplasm without modifying lamin expression levels or amino acid sequence. Using these lamin binders we demonstrate the importance of proper integration of lamin A/C into the lamina for nuclear mechanical properties and nuclear envelope integrity. Finally, our study provides evidence for cell-type specific differences in lamin functions.
Regulation of neuronal KCNQ2 channel by Src: dual rearrangement of cytosolic termini underlies bidirectional gating regulation
Authors: Siloni Sivan , Singer-Lahat Dafna , Esa Moad , Tsemakhovich Vlad , Chikvashvili Dodo , Lotan Ilana
Published: August 2015

Neuronal M-type K+ channels heteromers of KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 subunits found in cell bodies, dendrites and the axon initial segment, regulate firing properties of neurons, while presynaptic KCNQ2 homomeric channels directly regulate neurotransmitter release. Previously, we have described a mechanism for gating down-regulation of KCNQ2 homomeric channels by calmodulin and syntaxin1A. Here, we describe a novel mechanism for KCNQ2 channels gating regulation utilized by Src, a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, in which two concurrent distinct structural rearrangements of the cytosolic termini induce two opposing effects, up-regulation of single-channel open probability, mediated by an N-terminal tyrosine, and reduction in functional channels, mediated by a C-terminal tyrosine. In contrast, Src regulation of KCNQ3 homomeric channels, shown before to be mediated by corresponding tyrosines, involves N-terminal tyrosine-mediated down-regulation of the open probability, rather than up-regulation. We argue that the dual bidirectional regulation of KCNQ2 functionality by Src, mediated via two separate sites, renders it modifiable by cellular factors that may specifically interact with either one of the sites, bearing potential significance in the fine-tuning of neurotransmitters release at nerve terminals.
Circadian modulation of learning abilities in a disease vector insect,Rhodnius prolixus
Authors: Vinauger Clément , Lazzari Claudio R.
Published: August 2015

Despite the drastic consequences it may have on the transmission of parasites, the ability of disease vectors to learn and retain information have just begun to be characterized. The kissing-bug Rhodnius prolixus, vectors of the Chagas disease, is an excellent model, particularly because conditioning the proboscis extension response (PER) constitutes a valuable paradigm to study their cognitive abilities under carefully controlled conditions. Another characteristic of these bugs is the temporal organisation of their different activities in a bimodal endogenous daily rhythm. This offers the opportunity to address the implication of the circadian system in learning and memory. Using aversive conditioning of the PER, we have tested whether the ability of kissing-bugs to learn and remember information varies during the day. We found that bugs perform well during the night, but not during the day: their ability to acquire information -but not that to retrieve it- is modulated in time. When keeping bugs under constant conditions to analyse the origin of this rhythm, the rhythm continues to freerun, showing its endogenous and truly circadian nature. These results are the first ones to evince the implication of the circadian system in the learning abilities of disease vectors and one of the few in insects in general.
Mode-dependent control of human walking and running as revealed by split-belt locomotor adaptation
Authors: Ogawa Tetsuya , Kawashima Noritaka , Obata Hiroki , Kanosue Kazuyuki , Nakazawa Kimitaka
Published: August 2015

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the association of neural control between walking and running, and in particular, how these two gait modes at different velocities are controlled (thus, either dependent on the gait mode or on velocity) by the central nervous system (CNS). The subjects were fully-adapted (acquiring modified motor patterns) to either walk or run on a split-belt treadmill driven in split mode (asymmetry in the velocities of two belts at 1.0 and 2.0 m s−1). Subsequently, the extent of adaptation transfer (i.e., how the adaptation affected the subsequent task execution) to walking and running at three different velocities in the tied mode (symmetrical velocities) at 0.75 m s−1: reflecting a preference to walk, 1.50 m s−1: a preference to both walk and to run, 2.25 m s−1: and a preference to run) was tested. Both walking and running on the split-belt resulted in the emergence of a significant aftereffect (asymmetrical movement) at all of the velocities tested when the adapted modes were executed subsequently (i.e., walking after adapting to walk and running after adapting to run). For contrasting modes (i.e., running after adapting to walk and walking after adapting to run), in contrast, such aftereffects were far less evident under all the velocities, thus showing only limited transfer across gait modes. The results demonstrate a clear mode-dependency in the neural control between human walking and running. In addition, only for walking, there was a degree of velocity-dependency.
Insects modify their behaviour depending on the feedback sensor used when walking on a trackball in virtual-reality
Authors: Taylor Gavin J. , Paulk Angelique C. , Pearson Thomas W. J. , Moore Richard J. D. , Stacey Jacqui A. , Ball David , van Swinderen Bruno , Srinivasan Mandyam V.
Published: August 2015

When using virtual-reality paradigms to study animal behaviour, careful attention must be paid to how the animal's actions are detected. This is particularly relevant in closed-loop experiments where the animal interacts with a stimulus. Many different sensor types have been used to measure aspects of behaviour, and although some sensors may be more accurate than others, few studies have examined whether, and how, such differences affect an animal's behaviour in a closed-loop experiment. To investigate this issue, we conducted experiments with tethered honeybees walking on an air-supported trackball and fixating a visual object in closed-loop. Bees walked faster and along straighter paths when the motion of the trackball was measured in the classical fashion – using optical motion sensors repurposed from computer mice – than when measured more accurately using a computer vision algorithm called ‘FicTrac’. When computer mouse sensors are used to measure bees' behaviour, they modified their behaviour and achieved improved control of the stimulus. This behavioural change appears to be a response to a systematic error in the computer mouse sensor that reduces the sensitivity of this sensor system under certain conditions. Although the large perceived inertia and mass of the trackball relative to the honeybee is a limitation of tethered walking paradigms, observing differences depending on the sensor system used to measure bee behaviour was not expected. This study suggests that bees are capable of fine-tuning their motor control to improve the outcome of the task they are performing. Further, our findings show that caution is required when designing virtual-reality experiments, as animals can potentially respond to the artificial scenario in unexpected and unintended ways.
Double network gels and the toughness of terrestrial slug glue
Authors: Wilks Alex M. , Rabice Sarah R. , Garbacz Holland S. , Harro Cailin C. , Smith Andrew M.
Published: August 2015

The terrestrial slug Arion subfuscus produces a defensive secretion that is sticky and tough, despite being a dilute gel. It is unusual in having high stiffness for a gel, yet retaining the high extensibility typical of mucus. In tensile tests, it sustains an average peak stress of 101 kPa, and fails at an average strain of 9.5. This gives the gel toughness; it requires much greater strain energy to fracture than most gels. This toughness may arise from a double network type mechanism. In this mechanism, two separate, interpenetrating networks of polymers with different properties combine to give toughness that can be several orders of magnitude greater than either network individually. Native gel electrophoresis suggests that A. subfuscus glue consists of two networks: a network of negatively charged proteins ranging in Mr from 40–220 × 103 that can be dissociated by hydroxylamine, and a network of heparan-sulfate like proteoglycans. The two networks are not tightly linked, though proteins of Mr 40 × 103 and 165 × 103 may associate with the carbohydrates. Targeted disruption of either network separately, using enzymatic hydrolysis, disulfide bond breakage, or imine bond disruption completely disrupted the glue, resulting in no measurable toughness. Thus, the two networks separately provide little toughness, but together they work synergistically to create a tough material, as predicted in the double network mechanism.
Synthesis of Tetrahydrothiophene and Thiophene-fused Porphyrin
Authors: Yang Lei-Lei , Hu Xiao-Lian , Tang Zhen-Qiang , Li Xiao-Fang
Published: August 2015

The sulfa-Michael/aldol cascade reaction of 1,4-dithiane-2,5-diol to 2-NO2-porphyrin has been developed, and this method provides a new facile approach to tetrahydrothiophene-fused porphyrin. Thermal methodologies drive dehydration and aromatization of tetrahydrothiophene-fused porphyrin to form thiophene-fused porphyrin in high yield. The peripheric fused-thiophene did not change the coordination properties of the porphyrin to Zn(II) and Ni(II).
Reversible Incorporation/Deposition Behavior of Cu on Hydroxyapatites by Heat Treatment at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Kato Sumio , Endo Tomoyuki , Ogasawara Masataka
Published: August 2015

Alkali earth hydroxyapatites (A-Hap: A = Ca, Sr, and Ba) containing Cu in the channel sites were synthesized by a Cu-loading and heat treatment method, and their thermal properties were investigated by thermogravimetry and high-temperature X-ray diffraction. Reversible incorporation/deposition of Cu in the channel sites of the apatites was observed. The behavior was accompanied with the oxidation/reduction of Cu at elevated temperatures in air.