bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bortezomib therapy-related lung disease in a patient with light chain amyloidosis: A case report
Authors: Balsman Erich
Published: June 2016

Bortezomib was the first antineoplastic proteasome inhibitor and is currently indicated for the treatment of hematologic malignancies including multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma. This report describes a 57-year-old patient with light chain (primary) amyloidosis receiving weekly subcutaneous bortezomib injections who presented with recurrent hypoxemia and interstitial pneumonitis. Following the failure of conventional therapy, the patient responded rapidly to high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone. Oxygen therapy was able to be weaned off within three days and he was able to be discharged to home in stable condition, with follow-up computed tomography showing improving lung lesions. Bortezomib is known to rarely cause acute lung injury, but this complication has not been previously described in the setting of amyloidosis. Clinicians should be aware of potentially severe pulmonary adverse effects in all patients treated with bortezomib.
Bringing the Book to Life
Authors: Kesler Ted , Gibson Lenwood , Turansky Christine
Published: June 2016

Using participatory action research, the first researcher functioned as co-teacher in a fifth-grade class in a large northeastern city public school. The researcher and classroom teacher guided 28 students working in book clubs to compose digital stories in response to historical fiction. The research questions were: (a) What interpretations did students have of their historical fiction novels through the mediational tools of digital storytelling? (b) How did the dynamics of the book club structure contribute to the students’ interpretive work? Data sources included students’ process and product work, video and audio recordings of work sessions, reflective notes and journal, a semi-structured interview with the teacher, and stimulated recall interviews with three case study book clubs. Both researchers used multimodal analysis, particularly the concept transmediation, concepts of interpretation in reader response, and grounded theory, informed by activity theory, to analyze data. Findings show students’ expression of and limits to interpretation in the multimodal ensembles of their digital stories. The purposeful use of digital technology generated ongoing problem solving. Activity systems expanded students’ learning by generating collaborative zones of proximal development, a dialectic among mediational tools, and opportunities to take on roles that shaped students’ identities and repositioned who they could be in this learning community. The study shows the value of project-based multimodal responses using digital technologies in collaborative groups to develop students’ comprehension of literary texts. The study suggests an alternative to writing-to-learn practices that dominate the implementation of the Common Core State Standards, and that high-stakes tests reify.
Toxicological Evaluation of β-Caryophyllene Oil
Authors: Schmitt D. , Levy R. , Carroll B.
Published: June 2016

In a subchronic toxicity study, administration of β-caryophyllene (BCP) oil by oral gavage to Wistar rats at dosages of 0, 150, 450, or 700 mg/kg/d for 90 days, including a 21-day recovery period, did not produce any significant toxicologic manifestations. The study design also included a 28-day interim sacrifice in the control and high-dose groups. The BCP oil test article was well tolerated as evidenced by the absence of major treatment-related changes in the general condition and appearance of the rats, neurobehavioral end points, growth, feed and water intake, ophthalmoscopic examinations, routine hematology and clinical chemistry parameters, urinalysis, and necropsy findings. The no observed adverse effect level was the highest dosage level administered of 700 mg/kg body weight/d for both male and female rats. The study was conducted as part of an investigation to examine the safety of BCP oil for its proposed use in medical food products.
Relationships Among Perceived Stress, Bullying, Cortisol, and Depressive Symptoms in Ninth-Grade Adolescents
Authors: Williams Susan G. , Turner-Henson Anne , Davis Sara , Soistmann Heather C.
Published: June 2016

Adolescence is considered a critical period for risk of depressive symptoms, with prevalence ranging from 13% to 34%. Few studies have examined the relationships among perceived stress, bullying, and depressive symptoms accompanied by a biological marker of stress (cortisol). The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the feasibility of collecting biological specimens in a high school setting, including a morning and afternoon sample of salivary cortisol as well as computer-based survey data in order to examine the relationships among these variables in ninth-grade adolescents. A convenience sample of 31 ninth-grade students from a Southern suburban high school participated in this cross-sectional, correlational study. Perceived stress contributed the most toward the variance in depressive symptoms ( F = 29.379, df = 1, p < .001, partial eta square [[Formula: see text]] = 0.583). Females ( n = 15) had higher depressive symptoms scores than males, n = 16; t(29) = −2.94, df = 29, p = .023. Bullying scores were low and not significantly correlated with depressive symptoms, but participants reported more verbal/relational bullying as compared to physical, cultural, or cyberbullying. Cortisol slopes were normal (a negative change) for 20 participants (64.5%), while 4 (12.9%) had a blunted cortisol slope (less than .01 μg/dl change from morning to afternoon) and 7 (22.36%) had an opposite cortisol slope (morning low and afternoon high). Data collection procedures (salivary cortisol and computer-based surveys) were feasible in a school setting. High rates of perceived stress and depressive symptoms warrant a larger study in the future.
Schnitzler Syndrome Without a Monoclonal Gammopathy
Authors: Urbanski Michelle , Holfeld Karen , Milne Ardyth , Abbas Mariam
Published: June 2016

Background:

Schnitzler syndrome (SS) is a rare autoinflammatory disorder characterized by a recurrent urticarial rash and a monoclonal immunoglobulin M gammopathy, as well as 2 of the following minor criteria: recurrent fever (>38°C), objective signs of abnormal bone remodeling, elevated C-reactive protein level or leukocytosis, and a neutrophilic infiltrate on skin biopsy. Alternatively, a monoclonal immunoglobulin G gammopathy may be present along with 3 minor criteria for diagnosis.

Objective:

To report a rare case of SS without monoclonal gammopathy and inform physicians of this possible clinical presentation so that treatment is not delayed.

Methods:

We report a case of a 62-year-old white man with a clinical diagnosis of SS without monoclonal gammopathy. He presented with chronic urticaria unresponsive to conventional therapy.

Results and Conclusions:

To our knowledge, there have only been 3 case reports of SS in the absence of monoclonal gammopathy documented in the literature. SS should be considered based on clinical presentation, even in the absence of monoclonal gammopathy, to facilitate appropriate management.
Determinants of non-adherence to disease-modifying therapies in multiple sclerosis: A cross-Canada prospective study
Authors: McKay Kyla A , Tremlett Helen , Patten Scott B , Fisk John D , Evans Charity , Fiest Kirsten , Campbell Trudy , Marrie Ruth Ann ,   for the CIHR Team in the Epidemiology and Impact of Comorbidity on Multiple Sclerosis (ECoMS)
Published: June 2016

Background:

Poor adherence to the disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) may attenuate clinical benefit. A better understanding of characteristics associated with non-adherence could improve outcomes.

Objective:

To evaluate characteristics associated with non-adherence to injectable DMTs.

Methods:

Consecutive patients from four Canadian MS Clinics were assessed at three time points over two years. Clinical and demographic information included self-reported DMT use, missed doses in the previous 30 days, health behaviors, and comorbidities. Non-adherence was defined as <80% of expected doses taken. We employed generalized estimating equations to examine characteristics associated with non-adherence at all time points with findings reported as adjusted odds ratios (OR).

Results:

In all, 485 participants reported use of an injectable DMT, of whom 107 (22.1%) were non-adherent over the study period. Non-adherence was associated with a lower Expanded Disability Status Scale score (0–2.5 vs 3.0–5.5, OR: 1.80; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06–3.04), disease duration (⩽5 vs <5 years, OR: 2.23; 95% CI: 1.10–4.52), alcohol dependence (OR: 2.14; 95% CI: 1.23–3.75), and self-reported cognitive difficulties, measured by the Health Utilities Index-3 (OR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.08–2.22).

Conclusions:

Nearly one-quarter of participants were non-adherent during the study. Alcohol dependence, perceived cognitive difficulties, longer disease duration, and mild disability status were associated with non-adherence. These characteristics may help healthcare professionals identify patients at greatest risk of poor adherence.
Graphic rules in planning: A critical exploration of normative drawings starting from zoning maps and form-based codes
Authors: Moroni Stefano , Lorini Giuseppe
Published: June 2016

This article is focused on the rules that we create using drawings (designs, pictures, paintings, etc.) which will be termed ‘graphic rules’. Its attention is therefore not simply on the use of images in normative documents but also ‘as law’. We will delve into one of these types of graphic rules: that is, graphic rules used in urban planning. The fact that graphic rules are widespread in planning practices, and indeed typical of them, makes rules of this kind a particularly significant field of interest for planning theory. An important point to stress is that while analysis of images used descriptively has been under way for some time (although in many respects it is anything but conclusive, despite what is generally thought), analysis of images used as rules is still in its infancy. To gain deeper understanding of these particular and widespread forms of (graphic) rules is therefore both theoretically and practically important.
Capturing/captured by stories of marginalized young people: Direct scribing and dialogic narrative analysis
Authors: Saldanha Kennedy , Nybell Lynn
Published: June 2016

Examining the results of the “narrative turn” in social work in their seminal article for Qualitative Research in 2005, Riessman and Quinney found themselves disappointed with the size and quality of the research corpus they reviewed. However, they also identified three exemplars of promising work, including the research of Faye Martin (Martin, 1998). Riessman and Quinney highlighted Martin’s narrative-gathering strategy, devised on the basis of her practice experience and dubbed “direct scribing.” The direct scribing method of narrative data collection disciplines the work of the researcher, who becomes the “scribe,” and elaborates the roles of the interviewees as authors of the narratives that they create.

This article on capturing (and being captured by) the narratives of marginalized young people is situated in an increasingly significant movement in the social work literature that promotes giving voice to young people, so that they may have their views taken into account. We highlight the benefits of direct scribing as a means of narrative-gathering in social work and then address the challenge of interpreting these narratives, drawing on examples from our research. We suggest connections between direct scribing and the interpretive approach of dialogic narrative analysis as a method of interpretation that requires “letting stories breathe.” (Frank, 2010). The aim of this contribution is to describe specific ways in which linking direct scribing and dialogical narrative analysis may contribute to the advancement of narrative research in social work, and, in particular, to the enhancement of efforts to amplify “youth voice” in social work policy and practice.
A dynamic performance analysis of passive sunlight control strategies in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Villalba A , Monteoliva JM , Rodríguez R , Pattini A
Published: June 2016

Neonatal intensive care units are a special lighting design challenge. Although natural light is highly desirable, it should be carefully planned to maximise benefits and minimise the problems associated with uncontrolled sunlight. This paper discusses the performance of different passive sunlight control strategies in a neonatal intensive care unit at the Dr. Humberto Notti Children's Hospital in Mendoza, Argentina, analysing their annual daylight behaviour through dynamic daylight simulations. The aim of this work is to optimise the use of daylight in neonatal intensive care units, considering the special lighting conditions required. Results show that, in this case study, the adequate implementation of solar control systems and the appropriate layout of the space for different uses according to surrounding building design and the characteristics of the local luminous climate can increase the useful daylight illuminance by up to 13%, while avoiding the incidence of direct sunlight at all times.
Do Neighborhood Demographics Modify Walking Group Intervention Effectiveness in Urban Neighborhoods?
Authors: Schulz Amy J. , Mentz Graciela B. , Kwarteng Jamila , Israel Barbara A. , Gamboa Cindy , Sand Sharon L. , Gaines Causandra , Reyes Angela G. , Rowe Zachary
Published: June 2016

Objectives. We assessed the effects of neighborhood composition on effectiveness of the Walk Your Heart to Health (WYHH) intervention in promoting physical activity and reducing cardiovascular risk (CVR) in low-to-moderate–income, predominantly non-Latino Black (NLB) and Latino communities. Method. Multilevel models assessed modifying effects of neighborhood composition on (1) WYHH adherence/participation at 8 weeks and 32 weeks, (2) associations between participation and steps, and (3) associations between steps and CVR. Results. Approximately 90% of participants were women. Neither neighborhood poverty nor racial composition modified intervention participation at 8 weeks. At 32 weeks, residents of high percentage–NLB neighborhoods that also had high poverty rates had reduced participation. Neighborhood composition did not modify associations between participation and steps or between steps and CVR. Neighborhood percentage poverty and NLB were positively associated with CVR. Conclusion. Positive associations between participation in the WYHH program and physical activity, and CVR did not differ by neighborhood composition. Efforts to address challenges to long-term participation are warranted for residents of racially segregated, high-poverty neighborhoods. Residents of racially segregated neighborhoods with high concentrations of poverty experience disproportionately high risk for cardiovascular disease and can benefit from interventions such as WYHH that increase physical activity and reduce CVR.
Production and characterization of boron nitride-doped nanofiber mats created through electrospinning
Authors: Cakmak Yasemin , Canbolat M Fatih , Cakmak Enes , Dayik Mehmet
Published: June 2016

The aim of this study was to produce advanced nanofiber mats by adding boron nitride to poly (ɛ-caprolactone) polymer using an electrospinning method and to characterize the resultant structures. Pure poly (ɛ-caprolactone) nanofiber mats and boron nitride-doped nanofiber mats prepared at different concentrations were compared. The morphological structures of the nanofiber mats were examined under a scanning electron microscope, spectroscopic analyses were conducted using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermal stability was analyzed using a thermogravimetric analysis method. Successful electrospinning of boron nitride-doped nanofibers at lower voltages was achieved. The thermogravimetric analysis test found that the thermal stability of boron nitride-doped nanofiber mats is higher than that of pure nanofibers, which suggests that the produced composite material could be preferable in applications involving insulation and high temperature. On the other hand, the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results indicated that no chemical reaction occurred between boron nitride and the poly (ɛ-caprolactone) nanofibers.
Interpretive Autoethnography as a Way of Social Transformation in Academic Teaching and Learning Spaces in Chile
Authors: Ramírez-Pereira Mirliana , Espinoza-Lobos Michelle , Zapata-Sepúlveda Pamela
Published: June 2016

This article arose from our interest in investigating our own teaching practices at three universities in Northern Chile. The aim was to generate a deeper understanding of our roles as models for our students, and by using the methodology of the heart, we have joined our three voices of Latin American women researchers to describe the interpretative autoethnography and performative text as ways of researching in education, health, and psychology and its power as a tool for breaking the traditional academic discourse to connect with international audiences from our own biographies. We seek to show how social transformation can occur from the classroom and at the same time challenge the public higher education system that follows free market policies in this neoliberal world. Why use autoethnography? Because reflecting on our own practices through autoethnography allows us to get to know ourselves and at the same time appreciate our voices. Trends in educational research in Latin America have been strongly marked by colonization and dramatically influenced by the knowledge developed in the global north. We propose to put the south in our research by exploring our realities told through social stories of the heart.
Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing Redo Operations Using Ferromagnetic Dissection and Conventional Monopolar Dissection
Authors: Starr Joanne P. , Gates Richard N. , Palafox Brian A. , Quill Allison
Published: June 2016

Purpose. To evaluate effectiveness of a novel hemostatic dissection tool in patients with congenital heart disease undergoing redo pericardiac dissections. Description. This dissection tool employs ferromagnetic energy to cut and coagulate. The unit passes no electric current through the patient, thus eliminating cautery-induced dysrhythmias and electrical interference. Ferromagnetic dissection is precise and reduces thermal injury spread by as much as 90%. Evaluation. We case matched 22 patients undergoing reoperation for congenital heart surgery by weight/operation. Group 1 used the ferromagnetic tool, and Group 2 used conventional monopolar cautery for pericardiac dissection. For groups 1 and 2, the mean weight was 27.7 and 28.4, respectively ( P = .87). Time (minutes) from skin incision to cardiopulmonary bypass was 71 versus 72 ( P = .44), cardiopulmonary bypass (minutes) was 75.6 versus 73.6 ( P = .42), total operative time (minutes) was 193 versus 201 ( P = .34). Chest tube output/kilogram in first 6 and first 24 hours was 0.4 versus 1.3 ( P = .02) and 0.8 versus 2.4 ( P = .01) for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Re-exploration for bleeding was 0% versus 9% ( P = .07). There was no mortality. Conclusion. The ferromagnetic dissection system appears safe and efficacious. Bleeding was significantly decreased and the need for re-exploration reduced.
The lived experience of having a rare medical disorder: Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome
Authors: Christensen Stacy , Wagner Linda , Coleman Melissa M , Appell Donna
Published: June 2016

Hermansky–Pudlak Syndrome is a rare form of albinism, affecting approximately one in 500,000 to one in 1,000,000 non-Hispanic individuals. The syndrome is more commonly found in Hispanics, where one in 18,00 individuals in Northwestern Puerto Rico are impacted. Because of the rarity of this chronic condition, patients often face challenges in their ability to cope with the diagnosis. A phenomenological study was conducted to explore the experience of individuals with this rare genetic disease. A purposive sample of adults between the ages of 20 and 49 diagnosed with Hermansky–Pudlak Syndrome was interviewed (N = 23). The majority (83%) were female. Data analysis resulted in the emergence of themes related to long road to diagnosis, learning to move forward, burden of being the expert, and survival through belonging to the HPS community.
Justice and Accountability: Activist Judging in the Light of Democratic Constitutionalism and Democratic Experimentalism
Authors: Simon William H.
Published: June 2016

This article examines the charge that activist judging is inconsistent with democracy in the light of two recent perspectives in legal scholarship. The perspectives – Democratic Constitutionalism and Democratic Experimentalism – suggest in convergent and complementary ways that the charge ignores or oversimplifies relevant features of both judging and democracy. In particular, the charge exaggerates the pre-emptive effect of activist judging, and it implausibly conflates democracy with electoral processes. In addition, it understands consensus as a basis for judicial legitimacy solely in terms of pre-existing agreement and ignores the contingent legitimacy that can arise from the potential for subsequent agreement.
Paris, Friday, 13 November 2015: Modest thoughts of an interculturalist
Authors: Praxmarer Peter
Published: June 2016

The attacks in Paris on 13 November 2015 have raised many questions as to what such acts of violence have to do with culture and religion, and how the academic field of intercultural communication could explain these acts. This article argues that it is best to leave out culture as well as religion when trying to come to terms with these and similar acts of horrorrism, to express more than étatique forms of solidarity, to engage in broader and deeper analysis of culture and communication in the various peripheries of society, and above anything else, to use a language ‘that permits knowledge and encourages the mutual exchange of ideas’ (Toni Morrison).
Sickle cell disease
Authors: Ekong Anietie
Published: June 2016

The haemoglobinopathies are the most common monogenetic diseases in the world. They include the thalassaemias and sickle cell syndromes. The sickle cell syndromes encompass several abnormal haemoglobin variants, of which homozygosity for the sickle cell gene – that is, sickle cell anaemia is the most common and most severe. Originally characteristic of the tropics and subtropics, recent mobility and migratory trends have meant that the prevalence of sickle cell disease (SCD) has significantly increased in the UK. It is important that GPs have an understanding of this disease, in order to help their patients deal with complications of every-day life. This article will address three main aspects of SCD: diagnosis, health maintenance, and some acute and chronic complications of SCD.
Sexually transmitted infections in primary care
Authors: James Daniel Stephen , Menon-Johansson Anatole S
Published: June 2016

Limited exposure to sexual health training, combined with a fear of having difficult conversations, may drive anxiety in dealing with patients’ sexual health concerns. This article focuses on how to assess a patient’s risk of sexually transmitted infections and deliver basic services for managing these infections safely in primary care. Sexual health delivery is changing, but a role for GPs is likely to continue.
Delay Aversion, Temporal Processing, and N-3 Fatty Acids Intake in Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Chang Jane Pei-Chen , Jingling Li , Huang Ya-Ting , Lu Yu-Ji , Su Kuan-Pin
Published: June 2016

This study investigates the association between polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) intake and neurocognitive functions in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We recruited 21 drug-naïve children diagnosed with ADHD according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and 21 non-ADHD controls. The n-3 intake and essential fatty acid (EFA) deficiency severity were recorded while the children were assessed for inhibitory control, delay aversion, and temporal processing with the Go/No Go Task, Delayed Reaction Time Task, and Finger Tapping Task, respectively. The ADHD group had more EFA deficiency symptoms ( p = .02) and poorer performance in delay aversion ( p = .02) and temporal processing ( p < .001). Moreover, ADHD symptoms correlated negatively with n-3 intake and positively with EFA deficiency. In addition, EFA deficiency was associated with higher delay aversion ( p < .001). Children with ADHD had a higher deficiency of EFA, and EFA deficiency had a positive association with ADHD severity and delay aversion.
Estimates of Poverty and Inequality in the Districts of India, 2011–2012
Authors: Mohanty Sanjay K. , Govil Dipti , Chauhan Rajesh K. , Kim Rockli , Subramanian S.V.
Published: June 2016

Though the Census of India and large-scale demographic surveys have bridged the data gap on key demographic and health parameters, estimates on poverty and inequality remain deficient for the districts of India. The estimates on poverty and inequality indices across the states of India conceal large variations among districts. We use an innovative approach to provide consumption-based estimates of poverty and inequality indices in the districts of India by pooling the 66th and 68th rounds of consumption expenditure carried out by the National Sample Survey. The new official poverty line of 2009–2010 and 2011–2012 as recommended by the Rangarajan Committee and adopted by the Government of India is used in the estimation of poverty. A set of poverty and inequality indices, the poverty head count ratio, poverty gap square, the Gini index, Theil index and mean log deviation (MLD) are used to estimate poverty and inequality indices for 623 of the 640 districts in India. Estimates of poverty are obtained by pooling the estimates of 2009-10 and 2011-12. Results suggest wide variations in the level, depth and incidence of poverty among the districts of India irrespective of size, stage and governance in the states. The pattern of inequality is different from that of poverty; it is higher in districts with a higher level of development. Estimates of poverty are consistently correlated with wealth index, agricultural labour and female literacy. Among various factors, the fertility level, wealth index and the proportion of agricultural worker are significant predictors of poverty. Based on the findings, we suggest to increase the sample size to estimate consumption poverty in every alternate quinquennial survey and undertake a special round of survey in multidimensional poverty. Districts ranked low in poverty head count ratio should be accorded high priority in planning and program implementation.
Vascular thiol isomerases
Authors: Flaumenhaft Robert , Furie Bruce
Published: June 2016

Thiol isomerases are multifunctional enzymes that influence protein structure via their oxidoreductase, isomerase, and chaperone activities. These enzymes localize at high concentrations in the endoplasmic reticulum of all eukaryotic cells where they serve an essential function in folding nascent proteins. However, thiol isomerases can escape endoplasmic retention and be secreted and localized on plasma membranes. Several thiol isomerases including protein disulfide isomerase, ERp57, and ERp5 are secreted by and localize to the membranes of platelets and endothelial cells. These vascular thiol isomerases are released following vessel injury and participate in thrombus formation. Although most of the activities of vascular thiol isomerases that contribute to thrombus formation are yet to be defined at the molecular level, allosteric disulfide bonds that are modified by thiol isomerases have been described in substrates such as αIIbβ3, αvβ3, GPIbα, tissue factor, and thrombospondin. Vascular thiol isomerases also act as redox sensors. They respond to the local redox environment and influence S-nitrosylation of surface proteins on platelets and endothelial cells. Despite our rudimentary understanding of the mechanisms by which thiol isomerases control vascular function, the clinical utility of targeting them in thrombotic disorders is already being explored in clinical trials.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: MicroRNA-130b promotes lung cancer progression via PPARγ/VEGF-A/BCL-2-mediated suppression of apoptosis
Authors: Tian Jianwei , Hu Liping , Li Xiao , Geng Jian , Dai Meng , Bai Xiaoyan
Published: June 2016

Background

The prognosis of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is poor yet mechanistic understanding and therapeutic options remain limited. We investigated the biological and clinical significance of microRNA-130b and its relationship with apoptosis in NSCLC.

Methods

The level of microRNA-130b in relationship with the expression of PPARγ, VEGF-A, BCL-2 and apoptosis were analyzed in 91 lung cancer patient samples using immunohistochemistry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay on tissue microarrays. Gain and loss-of-function studies were performed to investigate the effects of microRNA-130b, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) or vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) on biological functions of lung cancer cells using in vitro and in vivo approaches.

Results

MicroRNA-130b up-regulation conferred unfavorable prognosis of lung cancer patients. Notably, microRNA-130b targeted PPARγ and inhibiting microRNA-130b markedly repressed proliferation, invasion and metastasis of lung cancer cells, leading to increased apoptosis. MicroRNA-130b-dependent biologic effects were due to suppression of PPARγ that in turn activated BCL-2, the key mediator of anti-apoptosis. Administration of microRNA-130b mimic to mouse xenografts promoted tumor growth. In vitro and in vivo, miR-130b enrichment associated with down-regulation of PPARγ, up-regulation of VEGF-A and BCL-2, and decreased apoptosis.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that microRNA-130b promotes lung cancer progression via PPARγ/VEGF-A/BCL-2-mediated suppression of apoptosis. Targeting microRNA-130b might have remarkable therapeutic potential for lung cancer therapy.
“Environmentalism of the poor”: the Tipaimukh Dam, ecological disasters and environmental resistance beyond borders
Authors: Islam Md Saidul , Islam Md Nazrul
Published: June 2016

The Indian government recently resumed the construction of the Tipaimukh Dam on the Barak River just 1 km north of Bangladesh’s north-eastern border. The construction work was stalled in March 2007 in the wake of massive protests from within and outside India. Experts have argued that the Dam, when completed, would cause colossal disasters to Bangladesh and India, with the former being vastly affected: the Dam would virtually dry up the Surma and Kushiara, two important rivers for Bangladesh. Therefore, this controversial Dam project has generated immense public discontents leading to wider mass-movements in Bangladesh, India, and around the world. The movement has taken various forms, ranging from simple protests to a submission of a petition to the United Nations. Drawing on the “environmentalism of the poor” as a conceptual metaphor, the article examines this global movement to show how environmental resistance against the Tipaimukh Dam has transcended national borders and taken on a transnational form by examining such questions as: who is protesting, why, in what ways, and with what effects. In order to elucidate the impending social and ecological impacts, which would potentially disrupt communities in South Asia, the paper offers some pragmatic policy recommendations that also seek to augment social mobility in the region.
Editorial: Decoding the macrophage phagosomal environment: the hunt for key reductases is on
Authors: Banete Andra , Basta Sameh
Published: June 2016

Discussion on the exogenous and endogenous regulatory pathways, which control phagosomal reduction.
Conditional reconstruction: An alternative strategy in digital rock physics
Authors: Karimpouli Sadegh , Tahmasebi Pejman
Published: June 2016

Digital rock physics (DRP) is a newly developed method based on imaging and digitizing of 3D pore and mineral structure of actual rock and numerically computing rock physical properties, such as permeability, elastic moduli, and formation factor. Modern high-resolution microcomputed tomography scanners are used for imaging, but these devices are not widely available, and 3D imaging is also costly and it is a time-consuming procedure. However, recent improvements of 3D reconstruction algorithms such as crosscorrelation-based simulation and, on the other side, the concept of rock physical trends have provided some new avenues in DRP. We have developed a modified work flow using higher order statistical methods. First, a high-resolution 2D image is divided into smaller subimages. Then, different stochastic subsamples are generated based on the provided 2D subimages. Eventually, various rock physical parameters are calculated. Using several subsamples allows extracting rock physical trends and better capturing the heterogeneity and variability. We implemented our work flow on two DRP benchmark data (Berea sandstone and Grosmont carbonate) and a thin-section image from the Grosmont carbonate formation. Results of realization models, pore network modeling, and autocorrelation functions for the real and reconstructed subsamples reveal the validity of the reconstructed models. Furthermore, the agreement between static and dynamic methods indicates that subsamples are representative volume elements. Average values of the subsamples’ properties follow the reference trends of the rock sample. Permeability trends pass the actual results of the benchmark samples; however, elastic moduli trends find higher values. The latter can be due to image resolution and voxel size, which are generated by imaging tools and reconstruction algorithms. According to the obtained results, this strategy can be introduced as a valid and accurate method where an alternative method for standard DRP is needed.
Denoising of gravity gradient data using an equivalent source technique
Authors: Martinez Cericia , Li Yaoguo
Published: June 2016

The inherent relationship among different components of gravity gradiometer data requires applied processing to be consistent among the components. This restricts the applicability of some traditional potential-field processing techniques, but it highlights opportunities for methods uniquely suited for such data sets. The equivalent source technique is one such method. We have applied fast equivalent source construction to two aspects of gravity gradient data processing. First, we denoised multicomponent data and obtained estimates of the incoherent errors for the observations. Second, we have proposed a method that can be used to estimate errors associated with the denoised data. Through synthetic and field examples, we have evaluated the effectiveness of equivalent source processing for denoising and noise estimation.
Galanin Activates G Protein Gated Inwardly Rectifying Potassium Channels and Suppresses Kisspeptin-10 Activation of GnRH Neurons
Authors: Constantin Stephanie , Wray Susan
Published: June 2016

GnRH neurons are regulated by hypothalamic kisspeptin neurons. Recently, galanin was identified in a subpopulation of kisspeptin neurons. Although the literature thoroughly describes kisspeptin activation of GnRH neurons, little is known about the effects of galanin on GnRH neurons. This study investigated whether galanin could alter kisspeptin signaling to GnRH neurons. GnRH cells maintained in explants, known to display spontaneous calcium oscillations, and a long-lasting calcium response to kisspeptin-10 (kp-10), were used. First, transcripts for galanin receptors (GalRs) were examined. Only GalR1 was found in GnRH neurons. A series of experiments was then performed to determine the action of galanin on kp-10 activated GnRH neurons. Applied after kp-10 activation, galanin 1–16 (Gal1–16) rapidly suppressed kp-10 activation. Applied with kp-10, Gal1–16 prevented kp-10 activation until its removal. To determine the mechanism by which galanin inhibited kp-10 activation of GnRH neurons, Gal1–16 and galanin were applied to spontaneously active GnRH neurons. Both inhibited GnRH neuronal activity, independent of GnRH neuronal inputs. This inhibition was mimicked by a GalR1 agonist but not by GalR2 or GalR2/3 agonists. Although Gal1–16 inhibition relied on Gi/o signaling, it was independent of cAMP levels but sensitive to blockers of G protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium channels. A newly developed bioassay for GnRH detection showed Gal1–16 decreased the kp-10-evoked GnRH secretion below detection threshold. Together, this study shows that galanin is a potent regulator of GnRH neurons, possibly acting as a physiological break to kisspeptin excitation.
Circulating Cytokines Predict the Development of Insulin Resistance in a Prospective Finnish Population Cohort
Authors: Santalahti Kristiina , Maksimow Mikael , Airola Antti , Pahikkala Tapio , Hutri-Kähönen Nina , Jalkanen Sirpa , Raitakari Olli T. , Salmi Marko
Published: June 2016

Context:

Metabolic inflammation contributes to the development of insulin resistance (IR), but the roles of different inflammatory and other cytokines in this process remain unclear.

Objective:

We aimed at analyzing the value of different cytokines in predicting future IR.

Design, Setting, and Participants:

We measured the serum concentrations of 48 cytokines from a nationwide cohort of 2200 Finns (the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study), and analyzed their role as independent risk factors for predicting the development of IR 4 years later.

Main Outcome Measures:

We used cross-sectional regression analysis adjusted for known IR risk factors (high age, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, smoking, physical inactivity, and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), C-reactive protein and 37 cytokines to find the determinants of continuous baseline IR (defined by homeostatic model assessment). A logistic regression model adjusted for the known risk factors, baseline IR, and 37 cytokines was used to predict the future IR.

Results:

Several cytokines, often in a sex-dependent manner, remained as independent determinants of current IR. In men, none of the cytokines was an independent predictive risk marker of future IR. In women, in contrast, IL-17 (odds ratio, 1.42 for 1-SD change in ln-transformed IL-17) and IL-18 (odds ratio, 1.37) were independently associated with the future IR. IL-17 levels also independently predicted the development of incident future IR (odds ratio, 1.48).

Conclusions:

The systemic levels of the T helper 1 cell cytokine IL-18 and the T helper 17 cell cytokine IL-17 thus may have value in predicting future insulin sensitivity in women independently of classical IR risk factors.
Bioenergetic and volume regulatory effects of mitoKATP channel modulators protect against hypoxia-reoxygenation induced mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Onukwufor John O. , Stevens Don , Kamunde Collins
Published: June 2016

The mitochondrial ATP sensitive K+ channel (mitoKATP) plays a significant role in mitochondrial physiology and protects against ischemic reperfusion injury in mammals. Although fish frequently face oxygen fluctuations in their environment the role of mitoKATP channel in regulating the responses to oxygen stress is rarely investigated in this class of animals. To elucidate if and how mitoKATP channel protects against hypoxia-reoxygenation (H-R)-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in fish, we first determined the mitochondrial bioenergetic effects of two key modulators of the channel, diazoxide and 5-hydroxydecanoate (5-HD), using a wide range of doses. Subsequently, the effects of low and high doses of the modulators on mitochondrial bioenergetics and volume under normoxia and after H-R using buffers with and without magnesium and ATP (Mg-ATP) were tested. In the absence of Mg-ATP (mitoKATP channel open) both low and high doses of diazoxide improved mitochondrial coupling but only the high dose of 5-HD reversed post H-R coupling enhancing effect of diazoxide. In the presence of Mg-ATP (mitoKATP channel closed) diazoxide at low dose improved coupling post H-R and this effect was abolished by 5-HD at low dose. Interestingly, both low and high doses of diazoxide reversed H-R-induced swelling under mitoKATP channel open conditions but this effect was not sensitive to 5-HD. Under mitoKATP channel closed conditions diazoxide at low dose protected the mitochondria from H-R-induced swelling and 5-HD at low dose reversed this effect. In contrast, diazoxide at high dose failed to reduce the swelling caused by H-R and the addition of high dose of 5-HD enhanced mitochondrial swelling. Overall our study showed that in the presence of Mg-ATP both opening of mitoKATP channels and bioenergetic effects of diazoxide were protective against H-R in fish mitochondria, while in the absence of Mg-ATP only the bioenergetic effect of diazoxide was protective.
The orphan pentameric ligand-gated ion channelpHCl-2is gated by pH and regulates fluid secretion inDrosophilaMalpighian tubules
Authors: Feingold Daniel , Starc Tanja , O'Donnell Michael J. , Nilson Laura , Dent Joseph A.
Published: June 2016

Pentameric ligand-gated ion channels (pLGICs) constitute a large protein superfamily in metazoa whose role as neurotransmitter receptors mediating rapid, ionotropic synaptic transmission has been extensively studied. Although the vast majority of pLGICs appear to be neurotransmitter receptors, the identification of pLGICs in non-neuronal tissues and homologous pLGIC-like proteins in prokaryotes points to biological functions, possibly ancestral, that are independent of neuronal signaling. Here we report the molecular and physiological characterization of a highly divergent, orphan pLGIC subunit, pHCl-2 (CG11340), in Drosophila melanogaster. We show that pHCl-2 forms a channel that is insensitive to a wide array of neurotransmitters, but is instead gated by changes in extracellular pH. pHCl-2 is expressed in the Malpighian tubules, which are non-innervated renal-type secretory tissues. We demonstrate that pHCl-2 is localized to the apical membrane of the epithelial principal cells of the tubules and that loss of pHCl-2 reduces urine production during diuresis. Our data implicate pHCl-2 as an important source of chloride conductance required for proper urine production, highlighting a novel role for pLGICs in epithelial tissues regulating fluid secretion and osmotic homeostasis.
Discounts as a Barrier to Entry
Authors: Ide Enrique , Montero Juan-Pablo , Figueroa Nicolás
Published: June 2016

To what extent can an incumbent manufacturer use discount contracts to foreclose efficient entry? We show that off-list-price rebates that do not commit buyers to unconditional transfers—like the rebates in EU Commission v. Michelin II, for instance—cannot be anticompetitive. This is true even in the presence of cost uncertainty, scale economies, or intense downstream competition, all three market settings where exclusion has been shown to emerge with exclusive dealing contracts. The difference stems from the fact that, unlike exclusive dealing provisions, rebates do not contractually commit retailers to exclusivity when signing the contract. (JEL D43, D86, K21, L13, L14, L42, L60)
Network Structure and the Aggregation of Information: Theory and Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Alatas Vivi , Banerjee Abhijit , Chandrasekhar Arun G. , Hanna Rema , Olken Benjamin A.
Published: June 2016

We use unique data from over 600 Indonesian communities on what individuals know about the poverty status of others to study how network structure influences information aggregation. We develop a model of semi-Bayesian learning on networks, which we structurally estimate using within-village data. The model generates qualitative predictions about how cross-village patterns of learning relate to network structure, which we show are borne out in the data. We apply our findings to a community-based targeting program, where citizens chose households to receive aid, and show that the networks that the model predicts to be more diffusive differentially benefit from community targeting. (JEL D14, D83, D85, I32, O12, Z13)
Perceiving Prospects Properly
Authors: Steiner Jakub , Stewart Colin
Published: June 2016

When an agent chooses between prospects, noise in information processing generates an effect akin to the winner's curse. Statistically unbiased perception systematically overvalues the chosen action because it fails to account for the possibility that noise is responsible for making the preferred action appear to be optimal. The optimal perception pattern exhibits a key feature of prospect theory, namely, overweighting of small probability events (and corresponding underweighting of high probability events). This bias arises to correct for the winner's curse effect. (JEL D11, D81, D82, D83)
Perfil farmacoepidemiológico dos pacientes diabéticos participantes do programa Hiperdia em Tubarão-SC, Brasil
Pharmacoepidemiological profile of diabetic patients participants of Hiperdia program in Tubarão-SC, Brazil
Authors: Silvano Gustavo Paes , Jaques Júnior Nelson Pickler , Machado Marcos de Oliveira
Published: June 2016

Introdução: A maior compreensão da fisiopatologia do diabetes mellitus tem contribuído para o desenvolvimento de novas terapias farmacológicas além daquelas já padronizadas. Em função da alta incidência de diabetes mellitus e outras condições, como hipertensão arterial sistêmica e depressão, é comum encontrar pacientes em politerapia, que demanda aumento do conhecimento das interações entre as classes de fármacos empregadas. Promover a adesão dos pacientes à terapia farmacológica é um desafio importante para os profissionais de saúde e um fator imprescindível para o sucesso no manejo do diabetes mellitus. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o perfil farmacoepidemiológico dos pacientes com diabetes mellitus cadastrados no programa Hiperdia da cidade de Tubarão-SC, Brasil. Métodos: estudo observacional descritivo com aplicação de questionários e coleta de dados de prontuários. Resultados: os 133 pacientes que participaram do estudo eram, em sua maioria, masculinos (54,1%), com uma média de 64,7 ± 10,1 anos, glicemia de jejum de 126,0 ± 46,8 mg/dL e hemoglobina glicada de 7,7 ± 1,4%. Os medicamentos mais frequentes foram os que atuam no sistema cardiovascular (29,5%) e sistema nervoso (25,6%). Apenas 21,8% dos pacientes foram considerados aderentes ao tratamento farmacológico. Os diabéticos tratados com metformina e sitagliptina apresentaram a melhor resposta metabólica. Conclusões: os diabéticos participantes do programa Hiperdia são na maioria idosos, homens, apresentando alta incidência de sobrepeso, hipertensão arterial e outras complicações em consequência da hiperglicemia crônica, além de má adesão ao tratamento e baixa resposta terapêutica na combinação de metformina com uma sulfonilureia.