bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the New Aldose Reductase Inhibitor Benzofuroxane Derivative BF-5m on High Glucose Induced Prolongation of Cardiac QT Interval and Increase of Coronary Perfusion Pressure
Authors: Di Filippo C. , Ferraro B. , Maisto R. , Trotta M. C. , Di Carluccio N. , Sartini S. , La Motta C. , Ferraraccio F. , Rossi F. , D’Amico M.
Published: December 2015

This study investigated the effects of the new aldose reductase inhibitor benzofuroxane derivative 5(6)-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-ylmethoxy)benzofuroxane (BF-5m) on the prolongation of cardiac QT interval and increase of coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) in isolated, high glucose (33.3 mM D-glucose) perfused rat hearts. BF-5m was dissolved in the Krebs solution at a final concentration of 0.01 μM, 0.05 μM, and 0.1 μM. 33.3 mM D-glucose caused a prolongation of the QT interval and increase of CPP up to values of 190 ± 12 ms and 110 ± 8 mmHg with respect to the values of hearts perfused with standard Krebs solution (11.1 mM D-glucose). The QT prolongation was reduced by 10%, 32%, and 41%, respectively, for the concentration of BF-5m 0.01 μM, 0.05 μM, and 0.1 μM. Similarly, the CPP was reduced by 20% for BF-5m 0.05 μM and by 32% for BF-5m 0.1 μM. BF-5m also increased the expression levels of sirtuin 1, MnSOD, eNOS, and FOXO-1, into the heart. The beneficial actions of BF-5m were partly abolished by the pretreatment of the rats with the inhibitor of the sirtuin 1 activity EX527 (10 mg/kg/day/7 days i.p.) prior to perfusion of the hearts with high glucose + BF-5m (0.1 μM). Therefore, BF-5m supplies cardioprotection from the high glucose induced QT prolongation and increase of CPP.
The Four-Herb Chinese Medicine Formula Tuo-Li-Xiao-Du-San Accelerates Cutaneous Wound Healing in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats through Reducing Inflammation and Increasing Angiogenesis
Authors: Zhang Xiao-na , Ma Ze-jun , Wang Ying , Li Yu-zhu , Sun Bei , Guo Xin , Pan Cong-qing , Chen Li-ming
Published: December 2015

Impaired wound healing in diabetic patients is a serious complication that often leads to amputation or even death with limited effective treatments. Tuo-Li-Xiao-Du-San (TLXDS), a traditional Chinese medicine formula for refractory wounds, has been prescribed for nearly 400 years in China and shows good efficacy in promoting healing. In this study, we explored the effect of TLXDS on healing of diabetic wounds and investigated underlying mechanisms. Four weeks after intravenous injection of streptozotocin, two full-thickness excisional wounds were created with a 10 mm diameter sterile biopsy punch on the back of rats. The ethanol extract of TLXDS was given once daily by oral gavage. Wound area, histological change, inflammation, angiogenesis, and collagen synthesis were evaluated. TLXDS treatment significantly accelerated healing of diabetic rats and improved the healing quality. These effects were associated with reduced neutrophil infiltration and macrophage accumulation, enhanced angiogenesis, and increased collagen deposition. This study shows that TLXDS improves diabetes-impaired wound healing.
Comparison of the Treatment Efficiency of Bone Marrow‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation via Tail and Portal Veins in CCl4‐Induced Mouse Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Truong Nhung Hai , Nguyen Nam Hai , Le Trinh Van , Vu Ngoc Bich , Huynh Nghia , Nguyen Thanh Van , Le Huy Minh , Phan Ngoc Kim , Pham Phuc Van
Published: December 2015

Because of self‐renewal, strong proliferation in vitro, abundant sources for isolation, and a high differentiation capacity, mesenchymal stem cells are suggested to be potentially therapeutic for liver fibrosis/cirrhosis. In this study, we evaluated the treatment effects of mouse bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM‐MSCs) on mouse liver cirrhosis induced by carbon tetrachloride. Portal and tail vein transplantations were examined to evaluate the effects of different injection routes on the liver cirrhosis model at 21 days after transplantation. BM‐MSCs transplantation reduced aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase levels at 21 days after injection. Furthermore, BM‐MSCs induced positive changes in serum bilirubin and albumin and downregulated expression of integrins (600‐ to 7000‐fold), transforming growth factor, and procollagen‐α1 compared with the control group. Interestingly, both injection routes ameliorated inflammation and liver cirrhosis scores. All mice in treatment groups had reduced inflammation scores and no cirrhosis. In conclusion, transplantation of BM‐MSCs via tail or portal veins ameliorates liver cirrhosis in mice. Notably, there were no differences in treatment effects between tail and portal vein administrations. In consideration of safety, we suggest transfusion of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells via a peripheral vein as a potential method for liver fibrosis treatment.
Diabetes Mellitus and Increased Tuberculosis Susceptibility: The Role of Short-Chain Fatty Acids
Authors: Lachmandas Ekta , van den Heuvel Corina N. A. M. , Damen Michelle S. M. A. , Cleophas Maartje C. P. , Netea Mihai G. , van Crevel Reinout
Published: December 2015

Type 2 diabetes mellitus confers a threefold increased risk for tuberculosis, but the underlying immunological mechanisms are still largely unknown. Possible mediators of this increased susceptibility are short-chain fatty acids, levels of which have been shown to be altered in individuals with diabetes. We examined the influence of physiological concentrations of butyrate on cytokine responses toMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Butyrate decreased Mtb-induced proinflammatory cytokine responses, while it increased production of IL-10. This anti-inflammatory effect was independent of butyrate’s well-characterised inhibition of HDAC activity and was not accompanied by changes in Toll-like receptor signalling pathways, the eicosanoid pathway, or cellular metabolism. In contrast blocking IL-10 activity reversed the effects of butyrate on Mtb-induced inflammation. Alteration of the gut microbiota, thereby increasing butyrate concentrations, can reduce insulin resistance and obesity, but further studies are needed to determine how this affects susceptibility to tuberculosis.
Epigenetic Reprogramming of Muscle Progenitors: Inspiration for Clinical Therapies
Authors: Consalvi Silvia , Sandoná Martina , Saccone Valentina
Published: December 2015

In the context of regenerative medicine, based on the potential of stem cells to restore diseased tissues, epigenetics is becoming a pivotal area of interest. Therapeutic interventions that promote tissue and organ regeneration have as primary objective the selective control of gene expression in adult stem cells. This requires a deep understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms controlling transcriptional programs in tissue progenitors. This review attempts to elucidate the principle epigenetic regulations responsible of stem cells differentiation. In particular we focus on the current understanding of the epigenetic networks that regulate differentiation of muscle progenitors by the concerted action of chromatin‐modifying enzymes and noncoding RNAs. The novel exciting role of exosome‐bound microRNA in mediating epigenetic information transfer is also discussed. Finally we show an overview of the epigenetic strategies and therapies that aim to potentiate muscle regeneration and counteract the progression of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).
Genetic Analysis and Follow-Up of 25 Neonatal Diabetes Mellitus Patients in China
Authors: Cao Bingyan , Gong Chunxiu , Wu Di , Lu Chaoxia , Liu Fang , Liu Xiaojing , Zhang Yingxian , Gu Yi , Qi Zhan , Li Xiaoqiao , Liu Min , Li Wenjing , Su Chang , Liang Xuejun , Feng Mei
Published: December 2015

Aims.To study the clinical features, genetic etiology, and the correlation between phenotype and genotype of neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM) in Chinese patients.Methods.We reviewed the medical records of 25 NDM patients along with their follow-up details. Molecular genetic analysis was performed. We compared the HbA1c levels between PNDM group and infantile-onset T1DM patients.Results.Of 25 NDM patients, 18 (72.0%) were PNDM and 7 (28.0%) were TNDM. Among 18 PNDM cases, 6 (33.3%) had known KATP channel mutations (KATP-PNDM). There were six non-KATP mutations, five novel mutations, includingINS,EIF2AK3(n=2),GLIS3, andSLC19A2, one knownEIF2AK3mutation. There are twoABCC8mutations in TNDM cases and one paternal UPD6q24. Five of the six KATP-PNDM patients were tried for glyburide transition, and 3 were successfully switched to glyburide. Mean HbA1c of PNDM was not significantly different from infantile onset T1DM (7.2% versus 7.4%,P=0.41).Conclusion.PNDM accounted for 72% of NDM patients. About one-third of PNDM and TNDM patients had KATP mutations. The genetic etiology could be determined in 50% of PNDM and 43% of TNDM cases. PNDM patients achieved good glycemic control with insulin or glyburide therapy. The etiology of NDM suggests polygenic inheritance.
The Dynamic Similitude Design Method of Thin Walled Structures and Experimental Validation
Authors: Luo Zhong , Wang You , Zhu Yunpeng , Wang Deyou
Published: December 2015

For the applicability of dynamic similitude models of thin walled structures, such as engine blades, turbine discs, and cylindrical shells, the dynamic similitude design of typical thin walled structures is investigated. The governing equation of typical thin walled structures is firstly unified, which guides to establishing dynamic scaling laws of typical thin walled structures. Based on the governing equation, geometrically complete scaling law of the typical thin walled structure is derived. In order to determine accurate distorted scaling laws of typical thin walled structures, three principles are proposed and theoretically proved by combining the sensitivity analysis and governing equation. Taking the thin walled annular plate as an example, geometrically complete and distorted scaling laws can be obtained based on the principles of determining dynamic scaling laws. Furthermore, the previous five orders’ accurate distorted scaling laws of thin walled annular plates are presented and numerically validated. Finally, the effectiveness of the similitude design method is validated by experimental annular plates.
Altered ERK1/2 Signaling in the Brain of Learned Helpless Rats: Relevance in Vulnerability to Developing Stress-Induced Depression
Authors: Dwivedi Yogesh , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2015

Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2- (ERK1/2-) mediated cellular signaling plays a major role in synaptic and structural plasticity. Although ERK1/2 signaling has been shown to be involved in stress and depression, whether vulnerability to develop depression is associated with abnormalities in ERK1/2 signaling is not clearly known. The present study examined ERK1/2 signaling in frontal cortex and hippocampus of rats that showed vulnerability (learned helplessness, (LH)) or resiliency (non-learned helplessness, (non-LH)) to developing stress-induced depression. In frontal cortex and hippocampus of LH rats, we found that mRNA and protein expressions of ERK1 and ERK2 were significantly reduced, which was associated with their reduced activation and phosphorylation in cytosolic and nuclear fractions, where ERK1 and ERK2 target their substrates. In addition, ERK1/2-mediated catalytic activities and phosphorylation of downstream substrates RSK1 (cytosolic and nuclear) and MSK1 (nuclear) were also lower in the frontal cortex and hippocampus of LH rats without any change in their mRNA or protein expression. None of these changes were evident in non-LH rats. Our study indicates that ERK1/2 signaling is differentially regulated in LH and non-LH rats and suggests that abnormalities in ERK1/2 signaling may be crucial in the vulnerability to developing depression.
Stem Cell Tracking with Nanoparticles for Regenerative Medicine Purposes: An Overview
Authors: Accomasso Lisa , Gallina Clara , Turinetto Valentina , Giachino Claudia
Published: December 2015

Accurate and noninvasive stem cell tracking is one of the most important needs in regenerative medicine to determine both stem cell destinations and final differentiation fates, thus allowing a more detailed picture of the mechanisms involved in these therapies.
Given the great importance and advances in the field of nanotechnology for stem cell imaging, currently, several nanoparticles have become standardized products and have been undergoing fast commercialization. This review has been intended to summarize the current use of different engineered nanoparticles in stem cell tracking for regenerative medicine purposes, in particular by detailing their main features and exploring their biosafety aspects, the first step for clinical application. Moreover, this review has summarized the advantages and applications of stem cell tracking with nanoparticles in experimental and preclinical studies and investigated present limitations for their employment in the clinical setting.
Induction of Functional Hair‐Cell‐Like Cells from Mouse Cochlear Multipotent Cells
Authors: Liu Quanwen , Shen Yi , Chen Jiarong , Ding Jie , Tang Zihua , Zhang Cui , Chen Jianling , Li Liang , Chen Ping , Wang Jinfu
Published: December 2015

In this paper, we developed a two‐step‐induction method of generating functional hair cells from inner ear multipotent cells. Multipotent cells from the inner ear were established and induced initially into progenitor cells committed to the inner ear cell lineage on the poly‐L‐lysine substratum. Subsequently, the committed progenitor cells were cultured on the mitotically inactivated chicken utricle stromal cells and induced into hair‐cell‐like cells containing characteristic stereocilia bundles. The hair‐cell‐like cells exhibited rapid permeation of FM1‐43FX. The whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique was used to measure the membrane currents of cells differentiated for 7 days on chicken utricle stromal cells and analyze the biophysical properties of the hair‐cell‐like cells by recording membrane properties of cells. The results suggested that the hair‐cell‐like cells derived from inner ear multipotent cells were functional following differentiation in an enabling environment.
Inability of Some Commercial Assays to Measure Suppression of Glucagon Secretion
Authors: Wewer Albrechtsen Nicolai J. , Veedfald Simon , Plamboeck Astrid , Deacon Carolyn F. , Hartmann Bolette , Knop Filip K. , Vilsboll Tina , Holst Jens J.
Published: December 2015

Glucagon levels are increasingly being included as endpoints in clinical study design and more than 400 current diabetes-related clinical trials have glucagon as an outcome measure. The reliability of immune-based technologies used to measure endogenous glucagon concentrations is, therefore, important. We studied the ability of immunoassays based on four different technologies to detect changes in levels of glucagon under conditions where glucagon levels are strongly suppressed. To our surprise, the most advanced technological methods, employing electrochemiluminescence or homogeneous time resolved fluorescence (HTRF) detection, were not capable of detecting the suppression induced by a glucose clamp (6 mmol/L) with or without atropine in five healthy male participants, whereas a radioimmunoassay and a spectrophotometry-based ELISA were. In summary, measurement of glucagon is challenging even when state-of-the-art immune-based technologies are used. Clinical researchers using glucagon as outcome measures may need to reconsider the validity of their chosen glucagon assay. The current study demonstrates that the most advanced approach is not necessarily the best when measuring a low-abundant peptide such as glucagon in humans.
The Contact State Monitoring for Seal End Faces Based on Acoustic Emission Detection
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Fu Pan , Chen Kan , Lin Zhibin , Zhang Erqing
Published: December 2015

Monitoring the contact state of seal end faces would help the early warning of the seal failure. In the acoustic emission (AE) detection for mechanical seal, the main difficulty is to reduce the background noise and to classify the dispersed features. To solve these problems and achieve higher detection rates, a new approach based on genetic particle filter with autoregression (AR-GPF) and hypersphere support vector machine (HSSVM) is presented. First, AR model is used to build the dynamic state space (DSS) of the AE signal, and GPF is used for signal filtering. Then, multiple features are extracted, and a classification model based on HSSVM is constructed for state recognition. In this approach, AR-GPF is an excellent time-domain method for noise reduction, and HSSVM has advantage on those dispersed features. Finally experimental data shows that the proposed method can effectively detect the contact state of the seal end faces and has higher accuracy rates than some other existing methods.
Quantitative Analysis of Intestinal Flora of Uygur and Han Ethnic Chinese Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Yao Ping , Cui Min , Wang Haikun , Gao Hongliang , Wang Lei , Yang Tao , Cheng Yongbo
Published: December 2015

Aim. To study the correlation between intestinal flora and ulcerative colitis by analyzing the abundance ofBacteroides, Fusobacterium, Clostridium, Bifidobacteriumspp., andFaecalibacterium prausnitziiin the intestinal of ulcerative colitis (UC) patients and healthy controls with Uygur and Han ethnic.Methods. Bacterial genomic DNA was extracted from fecal samples and analyzed with real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify the abundance ofBacteroides, Fusobacterium, Clostridium, Bifidobacteriumspp., andFaecalibacterium prausnitzii.Results. The samples from UC patients, Uygur and Han ethnic combined, had higher abundance ofBacteroides(P=0.026) but lowerClostridium(P=0.004),Bifidobacteriumspp. (P=0.009), andFaecalibacterium prausnitzii(P=0.008) than those from healthy controls. Among UC patients,Bacteroidespopulation was raised in acute UC patients (P≤0.05), while the abundance ofClostridium,Bifidobacteriumspp.,Fusobacterium, andFaecalibacterium prausnitziidecreased (P≤0.05) compared with the remission. In both UC patients group and control group, no difference was observed in the abundance of these 5 bacteria between the Han and the Uygur group.Conclusions. Variations in the abundance of these five bacterial strains in intestines may be associated with the occurrence of UC in Uygur and Han populations; however, these variations were not associated with ethnic difference.
Expression and Function of the Endocannabinoid System in the Retina and the Visual Brain
Authors: Bouchard Jean-François , Casanova Christian , Cécyre Bruno , Redmond William John
Published: December 2015

Endocannabinoids are important retrograde modulators of synaptic transmission throughout the nervous system. Cannabinoid receptors are seven transmembrane G-protein coupled receptors favoringGi/oprotein. They are known to play an important role in various processes, including metabolic regulation, craving, pain, anxiety, and immune function. In the last decade, there has been a growing interest for endocannabinoids in the retina and their role in visual processing. The purpose of this review is to characterize the expression and physiological functions of the endocannabinoid system in the visual system, from the retina to the primary visual cortex, with a main interest regarding the retina, which is the best-described area in this system so far. It will show that the endocannabinoid system is widely present in the retina, mostly in the through pathway where it can modulate neurotransmitter release and ion channel activity, although some evidence also indicates possible mechanisms via amacrine, horizontal, and Müller cells. The presence of multiple endocannabinoid ligands, synthesizing and catabolizing enzymes, and receptors highlights various pharmacological targets for novel therapeutic application to retinal diseases.
Correlations between the Memory-Related Behavior and the Level of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in the Mice Brain, Provoked by an Acute Administration of CB Receptor Ligands
Authors: Kruk-Slomka Marta , Boguszewska-Czubara Anna , Slomka Tomasz , Budzynska Barbara , Biala Grazyna
Published: December 2015

The endocannabinoid system, through cannabinoid (CB) receptors, is involved in memory-related responses, as well as in processes that may affect cognition, like oxidative stress processes. The purpose of the experiments was to investigate the impact of CB1 and CB2 receptor ligands on the long-term memory stages in male Swiss mice, using the passive avoidance (PA) test, as well as the influence of these compounds on the level of oxidative stress biomarkers in the mice brain. A single injection of a selective CB1 receptor antagonist, AM 251, improved long-term memory acquisition and consolidation in the PA test in mice, while a mixed CB1/CB2 receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 impaired both stages of cognition. Additionally, JWH 133, a selective CB2 receptor agonist, and AM 630, a competitive CB2 receptor antagonist, significantly improved memory. Additionally, an acute administration of the highest used doses of JWH 133, WIN 55,212-2, and AM 630, but not AM 251, increased total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the brain. In turn, the processes of lipids peroxidation, expressed as the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), were more advanced in case of AM 251. Thus, some changes in the PA performance may be connected with the level of oxidative stress in the brain.
In Sickness and in Health: Perineuronal Nets and Synaptic Plasticity in Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Pantazopoulos Harry , Berretta Sabina
Published: December 2015

Rapidly emerging evidence implicates perineuronal nets (PNNs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules that compose or interact with PNNs, in the pathophysiology of several psychiatric disorders. Studies on schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, mood disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, and epilepsy point to the involvement of ECM molecules such as chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, Reelin, and matrix metalloproteases, as well as their cell surface receptors. In many of these disorders, PNN abnormalities have also been reported. In the context of the “quadripartite” synapse concept, that is, the functional unit composed of the pre- and postsynaptic terminals, glial processes, and ECM, and of the role that PNNs and ECM molecules play in regulating synaptic functions and plasticity, these findings resonate with one of the most well-replicated aspects of the pathology of psychiatric disorders, that is, synaptic abnormalities. Here we review the evidence for PNN/ECM-related pathology in these disorders, with particular emphasis on schizophrenia, and discuss the hypothesis that such pathology may significantly contribute to synaptic dysfunction.
Silencing of CD24 Enhances the PRIMA-1–Induced Restoration of Mutant p53 in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yi Bin , Wang Chao , Chen Dongquan , Bae Sejong , Wei Shi , Guo Rong-Jun , Lu Changming , Nguyen Lisa L.H. , Yang Wei-Hsiung , Lillard James W. , Zhang Xingyi , Wang Lizhong , Liu Runhua
Published: December 2015

Purpose: In prostate cancer cells, there is CD24-dependent inactivation of mutant p53, but the mechanism and its significance remain largely unknown. Here, we validated this observation and explored the therapeutic potential of targeting CD24 in TP53 mutant prostate cancer cells.

Experimental Design: Overall, 553 prostate cancers (522 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded and 31 frozen tissues) were assessed for protein or mRNA expression of CD24 and TP53. The effects of CD24 on p53-dependent transcriptional regulation, cancer cell growth, the cell cycle, apoptosis, and mutant p53 restoration were also determined.

Results: As determined with three sample cohorts, CD24 and p53 were not expressed in prostate epithelial cells but in prostate cancer cells in 48% of cases for CD24 and 16% of cases for p53 (mutant form). Expressions of CD24 and mutant p53 were more frequently observed in late-stage and metastatic prostate tumors. Mutant p53 accompanied with CD24 was expressed in most cases (91.6%, 76/83). Silencing of CD24 increased the transcriptional activity of p53 target genes, such as CDKNA1, VDR, and TP53INP1, leading to suppression of p53-dependent cell growth, cell-cycle arrest, and apoptosis in most TP53-mutant prostate cancer cells. Silencing of CD24 enhanced restoration of PRIMA-1–induced mutant p53 in endogenous TP53P223L/V274F DU145 cells and in PC3 cells transfected with TP53R273H.

Conclusions: In human prostate cancers, there is CD24-dependent inactivation of mutant p53. The coexpression of CD24 and p53 may help identify aggressive cancers. Targeting CD24 provides a strategy to enhance mutant p53-restoring therapies, especially in patients with TP53R273H prostate cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 22(10); 2545–54. ©2015 AACR.
Comparison of Echocardiographic Measures in a Hispanic/Latino Population With the 2005 and 2015 American Society of Echocardiography Reference Limits (The Echocardiographic Study of Latinos)
Authors: Qureshi Waqas T. , Leigh J. Adam , Swett Katrina , Dharod Ajay , Allison Matthew A. , Cai Jianwen , Gonzalez Franklyn , Hurwitz Barry E. , Shah Sanjiv J. , Desai Ankit A. , Spevack Daniel M. , Rodriguez Carlos J.
Published: December 2015

Background—

Reference limits for echocardiographic quantification of cardiac chambers in Hispanics are not well studied.

Methods and Results—

We examined the reference values of left atrium and left ventricle (LV) structure in a large ethnically diverse Hispanic cohort. Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography was performed in 1818 participants of the Echocardiographic Study of Latinos (ECHO-SOL). Individuals with body mass index ≥30 kg/m
2
, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation were excluded leaving 525 participants defined as healthy reference cohort. We estimated 95th weighted percentiles of LV end systolic volume, LV end diastolic volume, relative wall and septal thickness, LV mass, and left atrial volume. We then used upper reference limits of the 2005 and 2015 American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) and 95th percentile of reference cohort to classify the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) target population into abnormal and normal. Reference limits were also calculated for each of 6 Hispanic origins. Using ASE 2015 defined reference values, we categorized 7%, 21%, 57%, and 17% of men and 18%, 29%, 60%, and 26% of women as having abnormal LV mass index, relative, septal, and posterior wall thickness, respectively. Conversely, 10% and 11% of men and 4% and 2% of women were classified as having abnormal end-diastolic volume and internal diameter by ASE 2015 cutoffs, respectively. Similar differences were found when we used 2005 ASE cutoffs. Several differences were noted in distribution of cardiac structure and volumes among various Hispanic/Latino origins. Cubans had highest values of echocardiographic measures, and Central Americans had the lowest.

Conclusions—

This is the first large study that provides normal reference values for cardiac structure. It further demonstrates that a considerable segment of Hispanic/Latinos residing in the United States may be classified as having abnormal measures of cardiac chambers when 2015 and 2005 ASE reference cutoffs are used.
Prevalence and Prognostic Significance of Apparent Treatment Resistant Hypertension in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Thomas George , Xie Dawei , Chen Hsiang-Yu , Anderson Amanda H. , Appel Lawrence J. , Bodana Shirisha , Brecklin Carolyn S. , Drawz Paul , Flack John M. , Miller Edgar R. , Steigerwalt Susan P. , Townsend Raymond R. , Weir Matthew R. , Wright Jackson T. , Rahman Mahboob
Published: December 2015

The association between apparent treatment resistant hypertension (ATRH) and clinical outcomes is not well studied in chronic kidney disease. We analyzed data on 3367 hypertensive participants in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) to determine prevalence, associations, and clinical outcomes of ATRH in nondialysis chronic kidney disease patients. ATRH was defined as blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg on ≥3 antihypertensives, or use of ≥4 antihypertensives with blood pressure at goal at baseline visit. Prevalence of ATRH was 40.4%. Older age, male sex, black race, diabetes mellitus, and higher body mass index were independently associated with higher odds of having ATRH. Participants with ATRH had a higher risk of clinical events than participants without ATRH—composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, congestive heart failure (CHF), and all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 1.38 [1.22–1.56]); renal events (1.28 [1.11–1.46]); CHF (1.66 [1.38–2.00]); and all-cause mortality (1.24 [1.06–1.45]). The subset of participants with ATRH and blood pressure at goal on ≥4 medications also had higher risk for composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, CHF, and all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], (1.30 [1.12–1.51]) and CHF (1.59 [1.28–1.99]) than those without ATRH. ATRH was associated with significantly higher risk for CHF and renal events only among those with estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥30 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
. Our findings show that ATRH is common and associated with high risk of adverse outcomes in a cohort of patients with chronic kidney disease. This underscores the need for early identification and management of patients with ATRH and chronic kidney disease.
Role of the Gut Microbiome in Obstructive Sleep Apnea–Induced Hypertension
Authors: Durgan David J. , Ganesh Bhanu P. , Cope Julia L. , Ajami Nadim J. , Phillips Sharon C. , Petrosino Joseph F. , Hollister Emily B. , Bryan Robert M.
Published: December 2015

Individuals suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at increased risk for systemic hypertension. The importance of a healthy gut microbiota, and detriment of a dysbiotic microbiota, on host physiology is becoming increasingly evident. We tested the hypothesis that gut dysbiosis contributes to hypertension observed with OSA. OSA was modeled in rats by inflating a tracheal balloon during the sleep cycle (10-s inflations, 60 per hour). On normal chow diet, OSA had no effect on blood pressure; however, in rats fed a high-fat diet, blood pressure increased 24 and 29 mm Hg after 7 and 14 days of OSA, respectively (
P
<0.05 each). Bacterial community characterization was performed on fecal pellets isolated before and after 14 days of OSA in chow and high-fat fed rats. High-fat diet and OSA led to significant alterations of the gut microbiota, including decreases in bacterial taxa known to produce the short chain fatty acid butyrate (
P
<0.05). Finally, transplant of dysbiotic cecal contents from hypertensive OSA rats on high-fat diet into OSA recipient rats on normal chow diet (shown to be normotensive) resulted in hypertension similar to that of the donor (increased 14 and 32 mm Hg after 7 and 14 days of OSA, respectively;
P
<0.05). These studies demonstrate a causal relationship between gut dysbiosis and hypertension, and suggest that manipulation of the microbiota may be a viable treatment for OSA-induced, and possibly other forms of, hypertension.
Reperfusion Beyond 6 Hours Reduces Infarct Probability in Moderately Ischemic Brain Tissue
Authors: An Hongyu , Ford Andria L. , Eldeniz Cihat , Chen Yasheng , Vo Katie D. , Zhu Hongtu , Powers William J. , Lin Weili , Lee Jin-Moo
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose—

We aimed to examine perfusion changes between 3 and 6 and 6 and 24 hours after stroke onset and their impact on tissue outcome.

Methods—

Acute ischemic stroke patients underwent perfusion magnetic resonance imaging at 3, 6, and 24 hours after stroke onset and follow-up fluid-attenuated inversion recovery at 1 month to assess tissue fate. Mean transit time prolongation maps (MTTp=MTT–[median MTT of contralateral hemisphere]) were obtained at 3 (MTTp
3 h
), 6 (MTTp
6 h
), and 24 hours (MTTp
24 h
). Perfusion changes between 3 and 6 hours (ΔMTTp
3_6
) and 6 and 24 hours (ΔMTTp
6_24
) were calculated. A 2-step analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of ΔMTTp
3_6
and ΔMTTp
6_24
on tissue fate. First, a voxel-based multivariable logistic regression was performed for each individual patient with MTTp
3 h
, ΔMTTp
3_6
, and ΔMTT
6_24
as independent variables and tissue fate as outcome. Second, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests on logistic regression coefficients were performed across patients to evaluate whether ΔMTTp
3_6
and ΔMTT
6_24
had significant impact on tissue fate for varying severities of baseline perfusion.

Results—

Perfusion change was common during both time periods: 85% and 81% of patients had perfusion improvement during 3- to 6- and 6- and 24-hour time intervals, respectively. ΔMTT
3_6
significantly influenced 1-month infarct probability across a wide range of baseline perfusion (MTTp 0–15 s). ΔMTT
6_24
also impacted 1-month infarct probability, but its influence was restricted to tissue with milder baseline ischemia (MTTp 0–10 s).

Conclusions—

Brain tissue with mild to moderate ischemia can be salvaged by reperfusion even after 6 hours. Such tissue could be targeted for intervention beyond current treatment windows.
On the Role of Temperature and Salinity Data Assimilation to Constrain a Coupled Physical–Biogeochemical Model in the Baltic Sea
Authors: Fu Weiwei
Published: December 2015

A three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR) method is implemented in a coupled physical–biogeochemical (CPB) model in the Baltic Sea. This study carries out a 10-yr assimilation experiment with satellite sea surface temperature (SST) and observed in situ temperature (T) and salinity (S) profiles. The impact of the assimilation is assessed with the focus on how the biogeochemical model responds to the improved hydrodynamics. The assimilation of temperature and salinity data yields considerable improvements in the physical model. On a basin scale, the mean bias of SST, T, S, and mixed layer depth (MLD) is decreased by 0.18°C (57%), 0.31°C (49%), 0.34 psu (43%), and 1.8 m (43%), respectively. More importantly, the biogeochemical simulation is improved in response to the physical data assimilation. Compared with in situ observations, the mean biases of chlorophyll a (Chl), dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and phosphorus (DIP) are decreased by 0.09 mg m−3 (15.5%), 0.19 mmol m−3 (9%), and 0.15 mmol m−3 (23%). Physical data assimilation also improves the simulated variability of Chl, DIN, and DIP and their correlations with observation. Compared with satellite observations, the mean bias of surface chlorophyll is reduced by 0.10–0.32 mg m−3 especially in the Skagerrak–Kattegat area and Bornholm basin. The decrease of total Chl change is caused by different mechanisms for winter and summer. While the deepened mixed layer acts as a dilution factor in winter, strengthened stratification agrees well with the decrease of chlorophyll in summer. In the vertical, relatively large changes of DIN and DIP occur below 60 m, which corresponds to the mean permanent halocline depth (~60–80 m) of the Baltic Sea.
On the Mediterranean Water Composition
Authors: Carracedo L. I. , Pardo P. C. , Flecha S. , Pérez F. F.
Published: December 2015

The Mediterranean Outflow Water (MOW) spills from the Mediterranean Sea (east North Atlantic basin) west off the Strait of Gibraltar. As MOW outflows, it entrains eastern North Atlantic Central Waters (ENACW) and Intermediate Waters to form the neutrally buoyant Mediterranean Water (MW) that can be traced over the entire North Atlantic basin. Its high salinity content influences the thermohaline properties of the intermediate–deep water column in the North Atlantic and its dynamics. Here, the composition of MW in its source region (the Gulf of Cádiz, west off Strait of Gibraltar) is investigated on the basis of an optimum multiparameter analysis. The results obtained indicate that mixing of MOW (34.1% ± 0.3%) occurs mainly with overlying ENACW (57.1% ± 0.8%) in a process broadly known as central water entrainment. A diluted form (80% of dilution) of the Antarctic Intermediate Water (AAIW) reaches the region and also takes part in MW formation (8.3% ± 0.5%). Finally, the underlying Labrador Sea Water (LSW) also contributes (0.4% ± 0.1%) to the characteristics of MW. From these results and considering 0.74 Sverdrups (Sv; 1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1) as the mean outflow of MOW, the MW exportation rate was inferred (2.2 Sv), which, decomposing MW, means that the MOW outflow is accompanied by 1.24 Sv of entrained ENACW, 0.18 Sv of AAIW, and <0.01 Sv of LSW.
Interannual Variability of Equatorial Eastern Indian Ocean Upwelling: Local versus Remote Forcing
Authors: Chen Gengxin , Han Weiqing , Li Yuanlong , Wang Dongxiao
Published: December 2015

The equatorial eastern Indian Ocean (EIO) upwelling occurs in the Indian Ocean warm pool, differing from the equatorial Pacific and Atlantic upwelling that occurs in the cold tongue. By analyzing observations and performing ocean model experiments, this paper quantifies the remote versus local forcing in causing interannual variability of the equatorial EIO upwelling from 2001 to 2011 and elucidates the associated processes. For all seasons, interannual variability of thermocline depth in the EIO, as an indicator of upwelling, is dominated by remote forcing from equatorial Indian Ocean winds, which drive Kelvin waves that propagate along the equator and subsequently along the Sumatra–Java coasts. Upwelling has prominent signatures in sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a concentration but only in boreal summer–fall (May–October). Local forcing plays a larger role than remote forcing in producing interannual SST anomaly (SSTA). During boreal summer–fall, when the mean thermocline is relatively shallow, SSTA is primarily driven by the upwelling process, with comparable contributions from remote and local forcing effects. In contrast, during boreal winter–spring (November–April), when the mean thermocline is relatively deep, SSTA is controlled by surface heat flux and decoupled from thermocline variability. Advection affects interannual SSTA in all cases. The remote and local winds that drive the interannual variability of the equatorial EIO upwelling are closely associated with Indian Ocean dipole events and to a lesser degree with El Niño–Southern Oscillation.
A Numerical Study of the 6 May 2012 Tsukuba City Supercell Tornado. Part I: Vorticity Sources of Low-Level and Midlevel Mesocyclones
Authors: Mashiko Wataru
Published: December 2015

On 6 May 2012, an F3 supercell tornado, one of the most destructive tornadoes ever recorded in Japan, hit Tsukuba City in eastern Japan and caused severe damage. To clarify the generation mechanisms of the tornadic storm and tornado, high-resolution numerical simulations were conducted under realistic environmental conditions using triply nested grids. The innermost simulation with a 50-m mesh successfully reproduced the Tsukuba City tornadic supercell storm.

In this study (the first of a two-part study), the vorticity sources responsible for mesocyclogenesis prior to tornadogenesis were investigated by analyzing vortex lines and the evolution of circulation of the mesocyclones. Vortex lines that passed through the midlevel mesocyclone (4-km height) originated from the environmental streamwise vorticity, whereas the low-level mesocyclone and low-level mesoanticyclone were connected by several arching vortex lines over the rear-flank downdraft associated with the hook-shaped distribution of hydrometeors (hereafter hook echo). Most of the circulation for the circuit surrounding the midlevel mesocyclone was conserved, although the baroclinity associated with positive buoyancy within the storm led to an up-and-down trend. The circulation of the material circuit encircling the low-level mesocyclone showed a gradual increase caused by baroclinity along the forward-flank gust front. Friction also had a positive net effect on the circulation. In contrast, most of the negative circulation of the low-level mesoanticyclone was rapidly acquired owing to baroclinity around the tip of the hook echo. Just after tornadogenesis, the low-level mesocyclone intensified significantly and developed upward, which caused retrograde motion of the midlevel mesocyclone.
Using Routinely Available Information to Estimate Tropical Cyclone Wind Structure
Authors: Knaff John A. , Slocum Christopher J. , Musgrave Kate D. , Sampson Charles R. , Strahl Brian R.
Published: December 2015

A relatively simple method to estimate tropical cyclone (TC) wind radii from routinely available information including storm data (location, motion, and intensity) and TC size is introduced. The method is based on a combination of techniques presented in previous works and makes an assumption that TCs are largely symmetric and that asymmetries are based solely on storm motion and location. The method was applied to TC size estimates from two sources: infrared satellite imagery and global model analyses. The validation shows that the methodology is comparable with other objective methods based on the error statistics. The technique has a variety of practical research and operational applications, some of which are also discussed.
A memristor-based Wien-bridge sinusoidal/chaotic oscillator
Authors: Abuelma'atti Muhammad Taher , Khalifa Zainualbideen Jamal
Published: December 2015

This paper presents the experimental results obtained from a memristor-based Wien-bridge oscillator implemented using a new memristor emulator. The memristor emulator can be implemented using off-the-shelf components. The experimental results show that nonlinear chaotic as well as linear oscillations can be obtained from the same circuit by careful adjustment of the value of a single resistor. The proposed circuit can be easily presented in an undergraduate laboratory course to demonstrate the use of memristors in generating chaotic oscillators.
Domestic Signaling of Commitment Credibility
Authors: Horowitz Michael C. , Poast Paul , Stam Allan C.
Published: December 2015

We provide a new perspective on how domestic factors shape the prospects for international cooperation. Internal arms, specifically conscription, signal a willingness and suitability to be a dependable ally. Possessing ineffective military forces inhibits a state’s ability to assist prospective allies and renders a state less able to deter threats on its own. This exemplifies an instance where the trade-off between arms and allies does not apply. Using new data on the military recruitment policies of states since 1816, we find that adopting a conscription-based recruitment system in the previous five years makes a state more likely to form an alliance in the current year, even when accounting for a heightened threat environment.
Posttraumatic Growth During Incarceration: A Case Study From an Experiential–Existential Perspective
Authors: Vanhooren Siebrecht , Leijssen Mia , Dezutter Jessie
Published: December 2015

Life after a traumatic experience is never easy. This is certainly the case for victims. For many offenders, committing a crime might be a traumatic experience as well, and incarceration may confront them even more with the consequences of their deeds. Humanistic therapies are very suitable for encouraging clients to embark on an explicit meaning-making process. In this article, we explore with a case study how experiential–existential therapy can foster meaning making and posttraumatic growth in prisoners. With Diana, we started with identifying her global meanings, which had been threatened by her own actions. The therapy offered her a safe nonjudgmental space where she could learn to explore all aspects of the crime she committed and its consequences. By processing her past in an experiential mode, she generated new meanings about herself, about others and about the meaning and purpose of her own life. Diana found new ways to meet her basic existential needs. She developed a more nuanced set of meanings and a richer pallet of coping skills that enable her to live her life in a more meaningful and in a better adjusted way.
Does Growth in the Executive System of Working Memory Underlie Growth in Literacy for Bilingual Children With and Without Reading Disabilities?
Authors: Swanson H. Lee , Orosco Michael J. , Kudo Milagros
Published: December 2015

This cohort-sequential study explored the components of working memory (WM) that underlie second language (L2) reading growth in 450 children at risk and not at risk for reading disabilities (RD) whose first language is Spanish. English language learners designated as balanced and nonbalanced bilinguals with and without risk for RD in Grades 1, 2, and 3 at Wave 1 were administered a battery of cognitive (short-term memory, WM, naming speed, and inhibition), vocabulary, and reading measures in Spanish and English. These same measures were administered 1 and 2 years later. Two important findings occurred: First, growth in the WM executive component was significantly related to growth in English word identification and passage comprehension when competing measures (phonological processing, naming speed, inhibition, and fluid intelligence) were entered into the multilevel growth model. Second, children defined as at risk for RD in Wave 1 had lower intercepts than children not at risk at Wave 3 across several measures of cognition, language, and achievement. However, except on measures of the executive component of WM, no significant group differences in linear growth emerged. These findings suggest that growth in L2 reading was tied to growth in the executive system of WM.
Building Infrastructure and Capacity for Correctional Health Research in a College of Criminal Justice
Authors: Sung Hung-En , Mellow Jeff , Vaughan Roger D. , Drucker Ernest
Published: December 2015

This analysis describes the planning and implementation of a development project to build infrastructure and capacity for correctional and community health research in a college of criminal justice. Partnering with a research-intensive university, the 3-year project recruited 112 faculty and student trainees for mentored research, extramural and intramural training, subsidized conference travels, and new course offerings. A network of 34 “nuclear” investigators emerged as a cohesive infrastructure from the experience, producing 21 refereed publications, 18 conference presentations, and nine grant applications in correctional and community health. A sustainability plan has been executed to consolidate the gains achieved. Lessons are discussed.
The Status That Troubled Me: Re-Examining Work With Black Boys Through a Culturally Sustaining Pedagogical Framework
Authors: Johnson Latrise P.
Published: December 2015

To understand how one participant “engage[s] in social action to solve problems,” this research utilizes critical narrative analysis to illustrate how researchers may re-enter into critical conversations with participants to interrupt deficit discourses used when describing the lives of Black male youth. This article analyzes the narrative of Teamer—a Black male from the urban south and former student of the researcher—alongside problematic and pervasive discourse to illustrate how individual narratives provide the context for re-examining normalized notions and how participating in critical meta-awareness can interrupt the deficit gaze placed upon Black males.
2015 Hans O. Mauksch Address
Authors: Sweet Stephen
Published: December 2015

While the popularity of the psychology major and the sociology major were comparable in 1970, sociology witnessed a decline while psychology witnessed expansion. This article considers strategies of expanding the popularity of the sociology major, considering data from a variety of sources. Primary recommendations are to configure programs to maximize prospects that students discover sociology early in their college careers and to limit the number of barriers that might prevent students from enrolling in sociology courses. Departments that expanded the number of sociology majors from 2008 to 2014 are identified. These departments prioritized expanding the major as an objective and developed a variety of methods to increase access, visibility, and vitality of the sociology program at their institutions.