bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
γδ T Cells Facilitate Adaptive Immunity against West Nile Virus Infection in Mice
Authors: Wang Tian , Gao Yunfei , Scully Eileen , Davis C. Todd , Anderson John F. , Welte Thomas , Ledizet Michel , Koski Raymond , Madri Joseph A. , Barrett Alan , Yin Zhinan , Craft Joseph , Fikrig Erol
Published: April 2014

West Nile (WN) virus causes fatal meningoencephalitis in laboratory mice, and γδ T cells are involved in the protective immune response against viral challenge. We have now examined whether γδ T cells contribute to the development of adaptive immune responses that help control WN virus infection. Approximately 15% of TCRδ−/− mice survived primary infection with WN virus compared with 80–85% of the wild-type mice. These mice were more susceptible to secondary challenge with WN virus than the wild-type mice that survived primary challenge with the virus. Depletion of γδ T cells in wild-type mice that survived the primary infection, however, does not affect host susceptibility during secondary challenge with WN virus. Furthermore, γδ T cells do not influence the development of Ab responses during primary and at the early stages of secondary infection with WN virus. Adoptive transfer of CD8+ T cells from wild-type mice that survived primary infection with WN virus to naive mice afforded partial protection from lethal infection. In contrast, transfer of CD8+ T cells from TCRδ−/− mice that survived primary challenge with WN virus failed to alter infection in naive mice. This difference in survival correlated with the numeric and functional reduction of CD8 memory T cells in these mice. These data demonstrate that γδ T cells directly link innate and adaptive immunity during WN virus infection.
Complement Activation via Alternative Pathway Is Critical in the Development of Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization: Role of Factor B and Factor H
Authors: Bora Nalini S. , Kaliappan Sankaranarayanan , Jha Purushottam , Xu Qin , Sohn Jeong-Hyeon , Dhaulakhandi Dhara B. , Kaplan Henry J. , Bora Puran S.
Published: April 2014

The objective of this study was to explore the role of classical, lectin, and alternative pathways of complement activation in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV). The classical and alternative pathways were blocked in C57BL/6 mice by small interfering RNAs (siRNA) directed against C1q and factor B, respectively. C4−/− mice developed CNV similar to their wild-type controls and inhibition of C1q by siRNA had no effect on the development of CNV. In contrast, CNV was significantly inhibited (p < 0.001) in C5−/− mice and C57BL/6 mice treated with factor B siRNA. Inhibition of the alternative pathway by factor B siRNA resulted in decreased levels of membrane attack complex and angiogenic factors–vascular endothelial growth factor and TGF-β2. Furthermore, factor B was up-regulated in complement sufficient C57BL/6 mice at day 1 postlaser and remained elevated at day 7. Significantly reduced levels of factor H were observed at day 3 in these animals. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that activation of the factor B-dependent alternative pathway, but not the classical or lectin pathways, was essential for the development of CNV in mouse model of laser-induced CNV. Thus, specific blockade of the alternative pathway may represent a therapeutically relevant strategy for the inhibition of CNV.
Membrane-Bound Prostaglandin E Synthase-1-Mediated Prostaglandin E2 Production by Osteoblast Plays a Critical Role in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Bone Loss Associated with Inflammation
Authors: Inada Masaki , Matsumoto Chiho , Uematsu Satoshi , Akira Shizuo , Miyaura Chisato
Published: April 2014

PGE2 acts as a potent stimulator of bone resorption in several disorders including osteoarthritis and periodontitis. Three PGE synthases (PGES) were isolated for PGE2 production, but which PGES has the major role in inflammatory bone resorption is still unclear. In this study, we examined the role of PGE2 in LPS-induced bone resorption using membrane-bound PGES (mPGES)-1-deficient mice (mPges1−/−). In osteoblasts from wild-type mice, PGE2 production was greatly stimulated by LPS following the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 and mPGES-1 mRNA, whereas no PGE2 production was found in osteoblasts from mPges1−/−. LPS administration reduced the bone volume in wild-type femur that was associated with an increased number of osteoclasts. In mPges1−/−, however, LPS-induced bone loss was reduced. We next examined whether mPGES-1 deficiency could alter the alveolar bone loss in LPS-induced experimental periodontitis. LPS was injected into the lower gingiva and bone mineral density of alveolar bone was measured. LPS induced the loss of alveolar bone in wild-type, but not in mPges1−/− mice, suggesting an mPGES-1 deficiency resistant to LPS-induced periodontal bone resorption. To understand the pathway of LPS-induced PGE2 production in osteoblast, we used C3H/HeJ mice with mutated tlr4. Osteoblasts from C3H/HeJ mice did not respond to LPS, and PGE2 production was not altered at all. LPS-induced bone loss in the femur was also impaired in C3H/HeJ mice. Thus, LPS binds to TLR4 on osteoblasts that directly induce mPGES-1 expression for PGE2 synthesis, leading to subsequent bone resorption. Therefore, mPGES-1 may provide a new target for the treatment of inflammatory bone disease.
Role of 5-Lipoxygenase in IL-13-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation and Remodeling
Authors: Shim Yun M. , Zhu Zhou , Zheng Tao , Lee Chun G. , Homer Robert J. , Ma Bing , Elias Jack A.
Published: April 2014

Exaggerated levels of IL-13 and leukotriene (LT) pathway activation frequently coexist at sites of Th2 inflammation and in tissue fibrotic responses. However, the relationship(s) between the IL-13 and LTs in these responses have not been defined. We hypothesized that the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) pathway of LT metabolism plays an important role in the pathogenesis of IL-13-induced chronic inflammation and remodeling. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated the effects of IL-13 on components of the 5-LO metabolic and activation pathways. We also compared the effects of transgenic IL-13 in C57BL/6 mice with wild-type and null 5-LO genetic loci. These studies demonstrate that IL-13 increases the levels of mRNA encoding cytosolic phospholipase A2, LTA4 hydrolase, and 5-LO-activating protein without altering the expression of 5-LO, LTC4 synthase, LTB4 receptors 1 and 2, and cysteinyl-LT receptors 1 and 2. They also demonstrate that this activation is associated with the enhanced accumulation of LTB4 but not of cysteinyl-LTs. Furthermore, they demonstrate that this stimulation plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of IL-13-induced inflammation, tissue fibrosis, and respiratory failure-induced death while inhibiting alveolar remodeling. Lastly, mechanistic insights are provided by demonstrating that IL-13-induced 5-LO activation is required for optimal stimulation and activation of TGF-β1 and the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-12. When viewed in combination, these studies demonstrate that 5-LO plays an important role in IL-13-induced inflammation and remodeling.
Hypoxia Modifies the Transcriptome of Primary Human Monocytes: Modulation of Novel Immune-Related Genes and Identification Of CC-Chemokine Ligand 20 as a New Hypoxia-Inducible Gene
Authors: Bosco Maria Carla , Puppo Maura , Santangelo Clara , Anfosso Luca , Pfeffer Ulrich , Fardin Paolo , Battaglia Florinda , Varesio Luigi
Published: April 2014

Peripheral blood monocytes migrate to and accumulate in hypoxic areas of inflammatory and tumor lesions. To characterize the molecular bases underlying monocyte functions within a hypoxic microenvironment, we investigated the transcriptional profile induced by hypoxia in primary human monocytes using high-density oligonucleotide microarrays. Profound changes in the gene expression pattern were detected following 16 h exposure to 1% O2, with 536 and 677 sequences showing at least a 1.5-fold increase and decrease, respectively. Validation of this analysis was provided by quantitative RT-PCR confirmation of expression differences of selected genes. Among modulated genes, 74 were known hypoxia-responsive genes, whereas the majority were new genes whose responsiveness to hypoxia had not been previously described. The hypoxic transcriptome was characterized by the modulation of a significant cluster of genes with immunological relevance. These included scavenger receptors (CD163, STAB1, C1qR1, MSR1, MARCO, TLR7), immunoregulatory, costimulatory, and adhesion molecules (CD32, CD64, CD69, CD89, CMRF-35H, ITGB5, LAIR1, LIR9), chemokines/cytokines and receptors (CCL23, CCL15, CCL8, CCR1, CCR2, RDC1, IL-23A, IL-6ST). Furthermore, we provided conclusive evidence of hypoxic induction of CCL20, a chemoattractant for immature dendritic cells, activated/memory T lymphocytes, and naive B cells. CCL20 mRNA up-regulation was paralleled by increased protein expression and secretion. This study represents the first transcriptome analysis of hypoxic primary human monocytes, which provides novel insights into monocyte functional behavior within ischemic/hypoxic tissues. CCL20 up-regulation by hypoxia may constitute an important mechanism to promote recruitment of specific leukocyte subsets at pathological sites and may have implications for the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases.
Monocyte/Macrophage-Derived Microparticles Up-Regulate Inflammatory Mediator Synthesis by Human Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Cerri Chiara , Chimenti Daniele , Conti Ilaria , Neri Tommaso , Paggiaro Pierluigi , Celi Alessandro
Published: April 2014

Cell-derived microparticles (MP) are membrane fragments shed by virtually all eukaryotic cells upon activation or during apoptosis that play a significant role in physiologically relevant processes, including coagulation and inflammation. We investigated whether MP derived from monocytes/macrophages have the potential to modulate human airway epithelial cell activation. Monocytes/macrophages were isolated from the buffy coats of blood donors by Ficoll gradient centrifugation, followed by overnight culture of the mononuclear cell fraction. Adherent cells were washed and incubated with the calcium ionophore, A23187, or with histamine. The MP-containing supernatant was incubated with cells of the human bronchial epithelial line BEAS-2B and of the human alveolar line A549. IL-8, MCP-1, and ICAM-1 production was assessed by ELISA and by RT-PCR. In some experiments, monocytes/macrophages were stained with the fluorescent lipid intercalating dye PKH67, and the supernatant was analyzed by FACS. Stimulation of monocytes/macrophages with A23187 caused the release of particles that retain their fluorescent lipid intercalating label, indicating that they are derived from cell membranes. Incubation with A549 and BEAS-2B cells up-regulate IL-8 synthesis. Ultrafiltration and ultracentrifugation of the material abolished the effect, indicating that particulate matter, rather than soluble molecules, is responsible for it. Up-regulation of MCP-1 and ICAM-1 was also demonstrated in A549 cells. Similar results were obtained with histamine. Our data show that human monocytes/macrophages release MP that have the potential to sustain the innate immunity of the airway epithelium, as well as to contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases of the lungs through up-regulation of proinflammatory mediators.
Induction of Cytotoxic Granules in Human Memory CD8+ T Cell Subsets Requires Cell Cycle Progression
Authors: Meng Yuru , Harlin Helena , O’Keefe James P. , Gajewski Thomas F.
Published: April 2014

Memory CD8+ T cell responses are thought to be more effective as a result of both a higher frequency of Ag-specific clones and more rapid execution of effector functions such as granule-mediated lysis. Murine models have indicated that memory CD8+ T cells exhibit constitutive expression of perforin and can lyse targets directly ex vivo. However, the regulated expression of cytotoxic granules in human memory CD8+ T cell subsets has been underexplored. Using intracellular flow cytometry, we observed that only a minor fraction of CD45RA−CD8+ T cells, or of CD8+ T cells reactive to EBV-HLA2 tetramer, expressed intracellular granzyme B (GrB). Induction of GrB-containing cytotoxic granules in both CD45RA+ and CD45RA− cells was achieved by stimulation with anti-CD3/anti-CD28 mAb-coated beads, required at least 3 days, occurred after several rounds of cell division, and required cell cycle progression. The strongest GrB induction was seen in the CCR7+ subpopulations, with poorest proliferation being observed in the CD45RA−CCR7− effector-memory pool. Our results indicate that, as with naive T cells, induction of cytotoxic granules in human Ag-experienced CD8+ T cells requires time and cell division, arguing that the main numerical advantage of a memory T cell pool is a larger frequency of CTL precursors. The fact that granule induction can be achieved through TCR and CD28 ligation has implications for restoring lytic effector function in the context of antitumor immunity.
Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein from Madurella mycetomatis, a Marker for Tumorous Mycetoma Progression
Authors: van de Sande Wendy W. J. , Janse Dirk-Jan , Hira Vishal , Goedhart Heidy , van der Zee Ruurd , Ahmed Abdalla O. A. , Ott Alewijn , Verbrugh Henri , van Belkum Alex
Published: April 2014

About 40 years ago Abs against the fungus Madurella mycetomatis were first demonstrated to be present in eumycetoma patients, a disease characterized by tumorous swellings. To date nothing is known about the individual immunoreactive Ags present in this fungus. In the present study, we identify its first immunogenic Ag, a protein homologous to the translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP), a well-conserved histamine release factor in a range of eukaryotes. The gene for this Ag was demonstrated to be present in two variants in M. mycetomatis, with 13% aa difference between the two proteins encoded. In vitro, TCTP was secreted into the culture medium. In vivo, it was found to be expressed on hyphae present in developing stages of the eumycetoma-characteristic black grain. Significant IgG and IgM immune responses, against the whole protein and selected M. mycetomatis-specific peptides, were determined. The Ab levels correlated with lesion size and disease duration. Overall, the patients with the largest lesions had the highest Ab level, which lowered with decreasing size of the lesion. After 6–15 years of disease duration the Ab levels were the highest. TCTP is the first well-characterized immunogenic Ag, simultaneously the first monomolecular vaccine candidate, identified for the fungus M. mycetomatis.
Complex T Cell Memory Repertoires Participate in Recall Responses at Extremes of Antigenic Load
Authors: Naumov Yuri N. , Naumova Elena N. , Clute Shalyn C. , Watkin Levi B. , Kota Kalyani , Gorski Jack , Selin Liisa K.
Published: April 2014

The CD8 T cell memory response to the HLA-A2-restricted influenza epitope M158–66 can be an instructive model of immune memory to a nonevolving epitope of a frequently encountered pathogen that undergoes clearance. This memory repertoire can be complex, composed of a large number of clonotypes represented at low copy numbers, while maintaining a focus on the use of VB17 T cell receptors with identified Ag recognition motifs. Such a repertoire structure might provide a panoply of clonotypes whose differential avidity for the epitope would allow responses under varying antigenic loads. This possibility was tested experimentally by characterizing the responding repertoire in vitro while varying influenza Ag concentration over five orders of magnitude. At higher and lower Ag concentrations there was increased cell death, yet a focused but diverse response could still be observed. Thus, one of the characteristics of complex memory repertoires is to provide effector function at extremes of Ag load, a characteristic that is not generally considered in vaccination development but may be important in measuring its efficacy.
Public Health and Health Promotion Capacity at National and Regional Level: A Review of Conceptual Frameworks
Authors: Aluttis Christoph , den Broucke Stephan Van , Chiotan Cristina , Costongs Caroline , Michelsen Kai , Brand Helmut
Published: April 2014

The concept of capacity building for public health has gained much attention during the last decade. National as well as international organizations increasingly focus their efforts on capacity building to improve performance in the health sector. During the past two decades, a variety of conceptual frameworks have been developed which describe relevant dimensions for public health capacity. Notably, these frameworks differ in design and conceptualization. This paper therefore reviews the existing conceptual frameworks and integrates them into one framework, which contains the most relevant dimensions for public health capacity at the country- or regional level. A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify frameworks addressing public health capacity building at the national or regional level. We content-analysed these frameworks to identify the core dimensions of public health capacity. The dimensions were subsequently synthesized into a set of thematic areas to construct a conceptual framework which describes the most relevant dimensions for capacities at the national- or regional level. The systematic review resulted in the identification of seven core domains for public health capacity: resources, organizational structures, workforce, partnerships, leadership and governance, knowledge development and country specific context. Accordingly, these dimensions were used to construct a framework, which describes these core domains more in detail. Our research shows that although there is no generally agreedupon model of public health capacity, a number of key domains for public health and health promotion capacity are consistently recurring in existing frameworks, regardless of their geographical location or thematic area. As only little work on the core concepts of public health capacities has yet taken place, this study adds value to the discourse by identifying these consistencies across existing frameworks and by synthesising them into a new framework. The framework proposed in this paper can act as a theoretical guide for academic researchers and institutions to set up their own public health capacity assessment.
Susceptibility to Eating Disorders Among Collegiate Female Student–Athletes
Authors: McLester Cherilyn N. , Hardin Robin , Hoppe Stephanie
Published: April 2014

Context:

Research has suggested that the prevalence of young women with eating disorders (EDs) is increasing, but determining the exact prevalence of EDs within the female student–athlete (FS-A) population is difficult. Looking at certain traits may help us to identify their level of susceptibility to developing an ED.

Objective:

To determine the susceptibility of FS-As to EDs in relation to self-concept, including self-esteem and body image.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Athletic training and health centers at National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I, II, and III institutions via e-mail questionnaire correspondence.

Patients or Other Participants:

A total of 439 FS-As from 17 participating institutions completed the questionnaires. The sample was primarily white (83.1%) and underclass (61.8%).

Main Outcome Measure(s):

The questionnaire consisted of 4 parts: 3 subscales of the Eating Disorder Inventory-2, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Body Cathexis Scale, and demographic items.

Results:

A total of 6.8% of FS-As were susceptible to anorexia and 1.8% were susceptible to bulimia. The majority of FS-As (61%) reported normal self-esteem levels, whereas 29.4% had high self-esteem. Overall, 64.5% were satisfied and 23% were very satisfied with their body image.

Conclusions:

These results are generally positive in that they suggest FS-As have high levels of self-concept and are at low risk to develop EDs. However, these findings do not mean that all concerns should be dismissed. Although more than 90% of the respondents were not susceptible to an ED, there are still FS-As who may be. Athletic departments should evaluate their FS-As' levels of self-concept so that their susceptibility to EDs can be addressed. The emotional aspect of health care should be included in providing holistic care for student–athletes. Athletic trainers often are the primary health care providers for FS-As, so they should be made aware of this concern.
A Predictive Model to Estimate Knee-Abduction Moment: Implications for Development of a Clinically Applicable Patellofemoral Pain Screening Tool in Female Athletes
Authors: Myer Gregory D. , Ford Kevin R. , Foss Kim D. Barber , Rauh Mitchell J. , Paterno Mark V. , Hewett Timothy E.
Published: April 2014

Context:

Prospective measures of high external knee-abduction moment (KAM) during landing identify female athletes at increased risk of patellofemoral pain (PFP). A clinically applicable screening protocol is needed.

Objective:

To identify biomechanical laboratory measures that would accurately quantify KAM loads during landing that predict increased risk of PFP in female athletes and clinical correlates to laboratory-based measures of increased KAM status for use in a clinical PFP injury-risk prediction algorithm. We hypothesized that we could identify clinical correlates that combine to accurately determine increased KAM associated with an increased risk of developing PFP.

Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Setting:

Biomechanical laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

Adolescent female basketball and soccer players (n = 698) from a single-county public school district.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

We conducted tests of anthropometrics, maturation, laxity, flexibility, strength, and landing biomechanics before each competitive season. Pearson correlation and linear and logistic regression modeling were used to examine high KAM (>15.4 Nm) compared with normal KAM as a surrogate for PFP injury risk.

Results:

The multivariable logistic regression model that used the variables peak knee-abduction angle, center-of-mass height, and hip rotational moment excursion predicted KAM associated with PFP risk (>15.4 NM of KAM) with 92% sensitivity and 74% specificity and a C statistic of 0.93. The multivariate linear regression model that included the same predictors accounted for 70% of the variance in KAM. We identified clinical correlates to laboratory measures that combined to predict high KAM with 92% sensitivity and 47% specificity. The clinical prediction algorithm, including knee-valgus motion (odds ratio [OR] = 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.31, 1.63), center-of-mass height (OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.15, 1.26), and hamstrings strength/body fat percentage (OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.02, 3.16) predicted high KAM with a C statistic of 0.80.

Conclusions:

Clinical correlates to laboratory-measured biomechanics associated with an increased risk of PFP yielded a highly sensitive model to predict increased KAM status. This screening algorithm consisting of a standard camcorder, physician scale for mass, and handheld dynamometer may be used to identify athletes at increased risk of PFP.
A model for mentoring newly-appointed nurse educators in nursing education institutions in South Africa
Authors: Seekoe Eunice
Published: April 2014

Background: South Africa transformed higher education through the enactment of the Higher Education Act (No. 101 of 1997). The researcher identified the need to develop a model for the mentoring of newly-appointed nurse educators in nursing education institutions in South Africa. Objectives: To develop and describe the model for mentoring newly-appointed nurse educators in nursing education institutions in South Africa. Method: A qualitative and theory-generating design was used (following empirical findings regarding needs analysis) in order to develop the model. The conceptualisation of the framework focused on the context, content, process and the theoretical domains that influenced the model. Ideas from different theories were borrowed from and integrated with the literature and deductive and inductive strategies were applied. Results: The structure of the model is multidimensional and complex in nature (macro, mesoand micro) based on the philosophy of reflective practice, competency-based practice andcritical learning theories. The assumptions are in relation to stakeholders, context, mentoring, outcome, process and dynamic. The stakeholders are the mentor and mentee within an interactive participatory relationship. The mentoring takes place within the process with a sequence of activities such as relationship building, development, engagement, reflective process and assessment. Capacity building and empowerment are outcomes of mentoring driven by motivation. Conclusion: The implication for nurse managers is that the model can be used to develop mentoring programmes for newly-appointed nurse educators.
African primary care research: Quality improvement cycles
Authors: Van Deventer Claire , Mash Bob
Published: April 2014

Improving the quality of clinical care and translating evidence into clinical practice is commonly a focus of primary care research. This article is part of a series on primary care research and outlines an approach to performing a quality improvement cycle as part of a research assignment at a Masters level. The article aims to help researchers design their quality improvement cycle and write their research project proposal.
Overconvergent Families of Siegel–Hilbert Modular Forms
Authors: Pang Mok Chung , Tan Fucheng
Published: April 2014

We construct one-parameter families of overconvergent Siegel-Hilbert modular forms. This result has applications to the construction of Galois representations for automorphic forms of noncohomological weights.
Effect of Financing on Profitability of Sawmill Industries in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Idiege DA , Emesowum CE , Amadi CA , Zaku SS
Published: April 2014

This study examined the Effect of Financing on Profitability of Sawmill Industries in Cross River State, Nigeria. The study was conducted at enterprise level in Cross River State with a sample of 80 saw millers to ascertain the effect of finance on their profitability. The result shows that amount borrowed business experience, level of education, cost of labour and extension visits were significantly influencing the profitability of saw millers. The study concluded that the entrepreneurs should be enlightened since the level of education impacted positively to profitability of the saw millers in the area.Keywords: financing, sawmill profitability, entrepreneurs
Simulation of non-hydrostatic gravity wave propagation in the upper atmosphere
Authors: Deng Y. , Ridley A. J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The high-frequency and small horizontal scale gravity waves may be reflected and ducted in non-hydrostatic simulations, but usually propagate vertically in hydrostatic models. To examine gravity wave propagation, a preliminary study has been conducted with a global ionosphere–thermosphere model (GITM), which is a non-hydrostatic general circulation model for the upper atmosphere. GITM has been run regionally with a horizontal resolution of 0.2° long × 0.2° lat to resolve the gravity wave with wavelength of 250 km. A cosine wave oscillation with amplitude of 30 m s−1 has been applied to the zonal wind at the low boundary, and both high-frequency and low-frequency waves have been tested. In the high-frequency case, the gravity wave stays below 200 km, which indicates that the wave is reflected or ducted in propagation. The results are consistent with the theoretical analysis from the dispersion relationship when the wavelength is larger than the cutoff wavelength for the non-hydrostatic situation. However, the low-frequency wave propagates to the high altitudes during the whole simulation period, and the amplitude increases with height. This study shows that the non-hydrostatic model successfully reproduces the high-frequency gravity wave dissipation.
Correlations between climate network and relief data
Authors: Peron T. K. D. , Comin C. H. , Amancio D. R. , da F. Costa L. , Rodrigues F. A. , Kurths J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. In the last few years, the scientific community has witnessed an ongoing trend of using ideas developed in the study of complex networks to analyze climate dynamics. This powerful combination, usually called climate networks, can be used to uncover non-trivial patterns of weather changes along the years. Here we investigate the temperature network of North America region and show that two network characteristics, namely degree and clustering, have markedly differences between the Eastern and Western regions. We show that such differences are a reflection of the presence of a large network community in the western side of the continent. Moreover, we provide evidences that this large community is a consequence of the peculiar characteristics of the western relief of North America.
Developing, implementing and improving learning outcomes assessment in Qatar's public higher education
Authors: Al-Thani Shaikha Jabor , Abdelmoneim Ali , Daoud Khaled , Cherif Adel , Moukarzel Dalal
Published: April 2014

This study reports on the development and implementation of the Student Learning Outcomes Assessment process and the system implemented at Qatar University. This system consists of two phases, initiation and enhancement, with progressive and continuous improvement in the assessment efforts. The initial 2006–2011 findings suggest effective strategies that can be used to build and develop assessment culture and knowledge. This study is significant because it provides ways that other universities in the region can be engaged in building their quality assurance system and continuously improving student learning outcomes.
The Future Role of Renewable Energy Sources for the Generation of Electricity in the European Region
Authors: Pedraza Jorge Morales
Published: April 2014

The development and use of renewable energy sources for electricity generation, particularly energy from wind, hydro, solar, biomass and geothermal, is a central aim of the European Commission's Energy Policy. For this reason, it is important to know what could be the role that renewable could play within the EU energy mix during the coming years, based on the role that this type of energy sources is now playing. The use of renewable energy sources for the generation of electricity is expected to be economically competitive in comparison with the use of conventional energy sources with the same purpose, will reduce the negative impact on the environment and the population as a result of the burn of fossil fuels, and will reduce the cost of the energy bill in the medium to long-term.
Analysts’ Recommendation Revisions and Investment Value
Authors: Yang Erjia , Li Lu , Chen Yunsen
Published: April 2014

Using a sample of Chinese analysts’ recommendations from 2005 to 2010, we find the following results: first, on average, the recommendations of Chinese security analysts have investment value; second, buy recommendations from star analysts have more investment value than those of non-star analysts. These results suggest that analysts do have some expertise. This research makes several contributions to the field: first, it can assist the more efficient allocation of economic resources; second, it investigates Chinese analysts’ expertise; third, it can help investors to select valuable recommendations to form portfolios; and fourth, it can help brokerage houses to evaluate the output of research departments.
Value of Virtual Touch Tissue Quantification in Stages of Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Yu Ning , Zhang Yueyue , Xu Yan
Published: April 2014

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate Virtual Touch tissue quantification (VTQ; Siemens AG, Erlangen, Germany) in stages of diabetic kidney disease.

Methods

A total of 120 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were divided into 3 groups according to their urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (ACR): normoalbuminuria (ACR <30 mg/g of creatinine), microalbuminuria (ACR 30–300 mg/g), and macroalbuminuria (ACR ≥300 mg/g and estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2). Thirty volunteers served as controls. Virtual Touch tissue quantification was performed in the 4 groups to determine the shear wave velocity (SWV) of the renal cortex, and changes in the SWV were compared between the groups. Correlation analysis was performed between the SWV and ACR in the type 2 diabetes groups.

Results

When SWVs were compared, there was no significant difference between the normoalbuminuria and control group (P = .40), but there was a significant difference between the microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria groups and the control group (P < .05). There was also a significant difference between each pair of type 2 diabetes groups (P < .05). The correlation coefficient for the SWV and log(ACR) in type 2 diabetes was 0.773 (P < .05). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under the curve for SWV diagnosis of diabetes complicated by renal injury was 0.93; the best cutoff point, sensitivity, and specificity were 2.43 m/s, 85.7%, and 84.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

It is feasible to use VTQ to determine the renal cortical SWV for judging renal injury in type 2 diabetes mellitus. The SWV increases as the renal injury progresses and thus plays an important role in diabetic kidney disease stages.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Sonography Versus Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Primary Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Gao Yong , Zhu Shang-Yong , Dai Yi , Lu Bing-Feng , Lu Lu
Published: April 2014

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to prospectively assess the accuracy of sonography versus magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for a diagnosis of primary nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Methods

A total of 150 patients suspected of having nasopharyngeal carcinoma underwent sonography and MRI. A diagnosis was obtained from an endoscopic biopsy that was collected from the suspected tumor or a normal nasopharynx. The diagnostic performance of sonography and MRI for nasopharyngeal carcinoma was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The sensitivity and specificity of the two imaging methods were compared by the McNemar test.

Results

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma was present in 71 of 150 patients (47.3%) and absent in 79 (52.7%). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of sonography versus MRI for these cases were 90.1%, 84.8%, and 87.3% for sonography and 97.2%, 89.9%, and 93.3% for MRI, respectively. Both sonography and MRI had good diagnostic performance for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, with area under the curve values of 0.958 and 0.987, respectively. There was no significant difference in the rate of tumor detectability between sonography and MRI (P = .12), and the specificities of sonography and MRI were similar (P = .22).

Conclusions

Both sonography and MRI are useful tools for clinical screening of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. However, sonography is less expensive and easier to perform. The results of this study also suggest that nasopharyngeal sonography could be used for the initial investigation of primary cancer in patients suspected of having nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Fluoride Ring‐Opening Kinetic Resolution of Terminal Epoxides: Preparation of (

S

)‐2‐Fluoro‐1‐Phenylethanol
Authors: Shaw Travis W. , Kalow Julia A. , Doyle Abigail G.
Published: April 2014

(
R,R)‐
(−)‐
N,N′‐
Bis(3,5‐di‐
tert
‐butylsalicylidiene)‐1,2‐cyclohexanedaminocobalt(II)

Styrene oxide

1.5‐Diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non‐5‐ene

Benzoyl fluoride

Sodium borohydride
Allylic Oxidation Catalyzed by Dirhodium(II) Tetrakis[ε‐caprolactamate] oftert‐Butyldimethylsilyl‐protectedtrans‐Dehydroandrosterone
Authors: Ratnikov* Maxim O. , Goldmann Petra L. , McLaughlin Emily C. , Doyle Michael P.
Published: April 2014

e‐Caprolactam

Dirhodium(Ii) tetrakis[e‐caprolactamate]

tert‐Butylhydroperoxide

1,2‐Dichlorethane

TBDMSCl

1H‐Imidazole

N,N‐Dimethylformamide

Androst‐5‐en‐17‐one

Androst‐5‐ene‐7,17‐dione
Dibenzo[a,e]cyclooctene: Multi‐gram Synthesis of a Bidentate Ligand
Authors: Franck Géraldine , Brill Marcel , Helmchen Günter
Published: April 2014

5,6.11,12‐Tetrahydodibenzo[a,e]cyclooctene

Tetrahydrofuran

Lithium

5,6,11,12,17,18‐Hexahydro‐tribenzo[a,e,i] cyclododecene

5,11‐Dibromo‐5,6,11,12‐tetrahydrodobenzo[a,e]‐cyclooctene

N
‐Bromosuccinimide

Carbon tetrachloride

Dibenz[A,e]cyclooctene

Potassium
tert
‐butoxide
Synthesis of 8,8‐Dipropylbicyclo[4.2.0]octa‐1,3,5‐trien‐7‐one via Pd‐catalyzed IntramolecularCH Bond‐Acylation
Authors: Martin Ruben , Flores‐Gaspar Areli
Published: April 2014

2‐Bromophenylacetonitrile

NaHMDS

1‐Iodopropane

DIBAL‐H

Acetic acid, palladium

Rac‐BINAP

Carbonic acid, cesium salt

2‐(2‐Bromopheynyl)‐2‐propylpentanal

[8,8,‐Dipropylbicyclo[4.2.0]octa‐1,3,5‐trien‐7‐one

[(1E)‐1‐Propylbutyl‐1‐enyl]benzene
Preparation of (

R

a

)‐Methyl 3‐(dimethyl(phenyl)silyl)hexa‐3,4‐dienoatea
Authors: Brawn Ryan A. , Panek James S.
Published: April 2014

Lithium chloride

3‐Butyn‐2‐ol

n‐
Butyllithium

Chloro(dimethyl)phenylsilane

Vinyl acetate

Trimethylorthoacetate

Propionic acid

Lithium borohydride

(±)‐4‐(Dimethyl(phenyl)silyl)‐but‐3‐yn‐2‐ol

(
S
)‐4‐(Dimethyl(phenyl)silyl)‐but‐3‐yn‐2‐ol

(
S
)‐4‐(Dimethyl(phenyl)silyl)‐but‐3‐yn‐2‐yl acetate

(

R
a

)‐Methyl‐3‐(dimethyl(phenyl)silyl)hexa‐3,4‐dienoate
Gold(
I
)‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Allylic Amination of Allylic

N

‐Tosylcarbamates
Authors: Xing Dong , Yang Dan
Published: April 2014

Trans‐
2‐Penten‐1‐ol

p‐
Toluenesulfonylisocyanate

N,N‐
Diisopropyl ethylamine

Gold(I) chloride

Silver trifluromethanesulfonate
Preparation of
t
‐Butyl‐3‐Bromo‐5‐Formylbenzoate Through Selective Metal‐Halogen Exchange Reactions
Authors: Arredondo Juan D. , Li Hongmei , Balsells Jaume
Published: April 2014

t‐Butyl‐3,5‐dibromobenzoate

n‐
Butylmagnesium chloride

n
‐Butyllithium

Di‐
tert
‐butyl dicarbonate

1,3,5‐Tribromobenzene

t
‐Butyl‐3‐bromo‐5‐formylbenzaote

Iso‐Propylmagnesium chloride

N,N‐
Dimethlformamide
Synthesis of Cyclobutarenes by Palladium‐Catalyzed
C
(sp
3
)‐
H
Bond Arylation: Preparation of Methyl 7‐Methylbicyclo[4.2.0]Octa‐1,3,5‐Triene‐7‐Carboxylate
Authors: Davi Michaël , Comte Arnaud , Jazzar Rodolphe , Baudoin Olivier
Published: April 2014

(2‐Chlorphenyl)acetic acid

Lithium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide

Iodomethane

Palladium(II) acetate

Tri
‐t
‐butylphosphonimtetrafluroborate

Potassium carbonate
Enals via a Simple Two‐Carbon Homologation of Aldehydes and Ketones
Authors: Valenta Petr , Drucker Natalie A , Walsh Patrick J
Published: April 2014

Ethoxyacetylene

Borane dimethyl sulfide complex

Diethyl zinc

Hydrocinnamaldehyde

5‐Phenyl‐pent‐2‐enal
t
‐Butyl as a Pyrazole Protecting Group: Preparation and Use of 1‐
tert
‐Butyl‐3‐Methyl‐1

H

‐Pyrazole‐5‐Amine
Authors: Pollock Patrick M. , Cole Kevin P.
Published: April 2014

Tert
‐Butylhydrazine hydrochloride

3‐Aminocrotonitrile

tert
‐Butyl‐3‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐5‐amine

2‐Chloropyridine

Pd(dba)2

4,5‐Bis(diphenylphosphino) 9,9‐dimethylxanthene

Tetra‐
n
‐butylammonium bromide

Trifluoroacetic acid
Observation of polar stratospheric clouds over McMurdo (77.85°S, 166.67°E) (2006–2010)
Authors: Di Liberto Luca , Cairo Francesco , Fierli Federico , Di Donfrancesco Guido , Viterbini Maurizio , Deshler Terry , Snels Marcel
Published: April 2014

Polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) have been observed in the Antarctic winter from 2006 to 2010 at the Antarctic base of McMurdo Station using a newly developed Rayleigh lidar. Total backscatter ratio and volume depolarization at 532 nm have been measured from 9 km up to 30 km with an average of 90 measurements per winter season. The data set was analyzed in order to evaluate the occurrence of PSCs based on their altitude, seasonal variability, geometrical thickness, and cloud typology derived from observed optical parameters. We have adopted the latest version of the scheme used to classify PSCs detected by the CALIPSO satellite‐based lidar in order to facilitate comparison of ground‐based and satellite‐borne lidars. This allowed us to approximately identify how processes acting at different spatial scales might affect the formation of different PSC particles. The McMurdo lidar observations are dominated by PSC layers during the Antarctic winter. A clear difference between the different type of PSCs classified according to the observed optical parameters and their geometrical thickness was observed. Ice and supercooled ternary solution PSCs are observed predominantly as thin layers, while thicker layers are associated with nitric acid trihydrate particles. The same classification scheme has been adopted to reanalyze the 1995–2001 McMurdo lidar data in order to compare both data sets (1995–2001 versus 2006–2010).
Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility of Eocene and Miocene sediments in the Qaidam Basin, Northwest China: Implication for Cenozoic tectonic transition and depocenter migration
Authors: Yu Xiangjiang , Huang Baochun , Guan Shuwei , Fu Suotang , Cheng Feng , Cheng Xiang , Zhang Tuo , Guo Zhaojie
Published: April 2014

The Cenozoic evolution of the Qaidam basin, especially its paleostress field, can provide a better understanding of the dynamistic process of the northern Tibetan Plateau. Under certain conditions, Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility (AMS) holds great potential for investigating early tectonic events, even where macroscopic and microscopic evidence of deformation is invisible. A basin‐scale AMS study of the middle to late Eocene Xiaganchaigou Formation and the early to middle Miocene Xiayoushashan Formation from seven locations was conducted, covering most outcrops of these two formations within the Qaidam basin. In the western Qaidam basin, principal stress directions inferred from AMS ellipsoids consist with those inferred from fold axial traces, while at Eboliang and in the northern Qaidam basin, most principal stress directions reflected by AMS ellipsoids are different from those reflected by fold axial traces. Two epochs of compressive strain have been identified: an early N‐S strain no later than Oligocene and a late NE‐SW strain since Miocene. The early N‐S compression is more intense in the northern Qaidam basin than that in the western Qaidam basin, while the late NE‐SW compression, which dominates the modern NW‐SE trending fold axial traces, is more intense in the western Qaidam basin than that in the northern Qaidam basin. The stress transfer provides a reasonable explanation for the southeastward migration of the deposition center in the Qaidam basin during Cenozoic. Moreover, the appearance of E‐component compression may be in close relationship with the beginning of the left‐lateral strike‐slip Kunlun Fault or the eastward channel flow to the south of the Kunlun Fault.
ECU
Design and Reliability
Authors: Yoshimi Joji
Published: April 2014

Onboard
ECUs
have become larger in scale and increasingly complex to meet the various requirements demanded of vehicles. Such
ECUs
are efficiently designed by utilizing design support tools. A higher level of reliability is also required of onboard
ECUs
, and onboard
ECUs
are evaluated in a specific manner.

This chapter describes case examples of utilizing design support tools that apply simulation technology used in design, and future prospects. Examples of what to look for when performing a reliability assessment, the onboard environment,
ECU
failure mode, reliability test items, and accelerated testing are also explained.
Causal Assessment in Environmental Studies
Authors: Norton Susan B. , W. Suter Glenn
Published: April 2014

Causal assessments bring together information to reach conclusions about how biological effects happened or can be produced. In environmental studies, a causal assessment may be prompted by observations of undesirable biological effects, concerns over a source or stressor, or questions about the efficacy of management actions. Observational studies are often the principal source of evidence available for causal assessments of environmental issues, but are problematic because causes are not manipulated, replicated, or randomly applied. Pragmatic strategies for interpreting observational study results for causal assessment include breaking up and analyzing causal pathways by mechanistic segment; comparing evidence for alternative causal explanations; using study design or statistical techniques to isolate the effects of individual variables; modeling the effects of multiple variables together; and supplementing observational results with evidence of sufficiency, exposure, and symptoms. Weight‐of‐evidence approaches are well suited to causal assessments because they can provide a common framework for synthesizing disparate types of information while retaining the evidence supporting or refuting conclusions.
A Call for an Unbiased Search for Moderators in Disfluency Research: Reply to Oppenheimer and Alter (2014)
Authors: Kühl Tim , Eitel Alexander , Scheiter Katharina , Gerjets Peter
Published: April 2014

In a commentary to our article, Oppenheimer and Alter stressed the importance of searching for moderators in disfluency research. We agree, but we would like to clarify two issues. First, unlike Oppenheimer and Alter, we assume that learner characteristics might indeed moderate the effects of disfluency. Second, conclusions concerning the impact of disfluency in educational settings might be biased because of the file‐drawer problem. To counteract this possibility, we want to encourage other researchers to publish their studies––regardless of whether they found (positive) effects of disfluency or not. Until then, any recommendation concerning the use of disfluency as an educational intervention seems premature.
Ultrafast Fabrication of Covalently Cross‐linked Multifunctional Graphene Oxide Monoliths
Authors: Wan Wubo , Li Lingli , Zhao Zongbin , Hu Han , Hao Xiaojuan , Winkler David A. , Xi Lingcong , Hughes Timothy C. , Qiu Jieshan
Published: April 2014

Stable graphene oxide monoliths (GOMs) have been fabricated by exploiting epoxy groups on the surface of graphene oxide (GO) in a ring opening reaction with amine groups of poly(oxypropylene) diamines (D400). This method can rapidly form covalently bonded GOM with D400 within 60 s. FTIR and XPS analyses confirm the formation of covalent C‐N bonds. Investigation of the GOM formation mechanism reveals that the interaction of GO with a diamine cross‐linker can result in 3 different GO assemblies depending on the ratio of D400 to GO, which have been proven both by experiment and molecular dynamics calculations. Moreover, XRD results indicate that the interspacial distance between GO sheets can be tuned by varying the diamine chain length and concentration. We demonstrate that the resulting GOM can be moulded into various shapes and behaves like an elastic hydrogel. The fabricated GOM is non‐cyctotoxic to L929 cell lines indicating a potential for biomedical applications. It could also be readily converted to graphene monolith upon thermal treatment. This new rapid and facile method to prepare covalently cross‐linked GOM may open the door to the synthesis and application of next generation multifunctional 3D graphene structures.