bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrophysiological and anatomical background of the fusion configuration of diastolic and presystolic Purkinje potentials in patients with verapamil‐sensitive idiopathic left ventricular tachycardia
Authors: Taniguchi Hiroshi , Kobayashi Yoshinori , Maruyama Mitsunori , Morita Norishige , Hayashi Meiso , Miyauchi Yasushi , Shimizu Wataru
Published: February 2015

Background

It is unclear whether false tendons (FTs) are a substantial part of the reentry circuit of verapamil‐sensitive idiopathic left ventricular tachycardia (ILVT). This study aimed to prove the association between FTs and the slow conduction zone by evaluating the electro‐anatomical relationship between the so‐called diastolic Purkinje (Pd) potentials and FTs using an electro‐anatomical mapping (EAM) system (CARTO).

Methods

The 1st protocol evaluated the spatial distribution of Pd and presystolic Purkinje (Pp) potentials in 6 IVLT patients using a conventional CARTO system. In the remaining 2 patients (2nd protocol), the electro‐anatomical relationship between the Pd–Pp fusion potential and the septal connection of the FT was evaluated using an EAM system incorporating an intra‐cardiac echo (CARTO‐Sound).

Results

Pd potentials were observed in the posterior–posteroseptal region of the LV and had a slow conduction property, whereas Pp potentials were widely distributed in the interventricular (IV) septum. At the intersection of the 2 regions, which was located in the mid‐posteroseptal area, both Pd and Pp potentials were closely spaced and often had a fused configuration. In the latter 2 patients (2nd protocol), it was confirmed that the intra‐cardiac points at which the Pd–Pp fusion potential was recorded were located in the vicinity of the attachment site of the FT to the IV septum. In all patients, ILVTs were successfully eliminated by the application of radiofrequency at those points.

Conclusion

FTs may at least partly contribute to the formation of the Pd potential, and thus form a critical part of the reentry circuit of ILVT.
Establishment and characterization of models of chemotherapy resistance in colorectal cancer: Towards a predictive signature of chemoresistance
Authors: Jensen Niels F. , Stenvang Jan , Beck Mette K. , Hanáková Barbora , Belling Kirstine C. , Do Khoa N. , Viuff Birgitte , Nygård Sune B. , Gupta Ramneek , Rasmussen Mads H. , Tarpgaard Line S. , Hansen Tine P. , Budinská Eva , Pfeiffer Per , Bosman Fred , Tejpar Sabine , Roth Arnaud , Delorenzi Mauro , Andersen Claus L. , Rømer Maria U. , Brünner Nils , Moreira José M.A.
Published: February 2015

Current standard treatments for metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) are based on combination regimens with one of the two chemotherapeutic drugs, irinotecan or oxaliplatin. However, drug resistance frequently limits the clinical efficacy of these therapies. In order to gain new insights into mechanisms associated with chemoresistance, and departing from three distinct CRC cell models, we generated a panel of human colorectal cancer cell lines with acquired resistance to either oxaliplatin or irinotecan. We characterized the resistant cell line variants with regards to their drug resistance profile and transcriptome, and matched our results with datasets generated from relevant clinical material to derive putative resistance biomarkers. We found that the chemoresistant cell line variants had distinctive irinotecan‐ or oxaliplatin‐specific resistance profiles, with non‐reciprocal cross‐resistance. Furthermore, we could identify several new, as well as some previously described, drug resistance‐associated genes for each resistant cell line variant. Each chemoresistant cell line variant acquired a unique set of changes that may represent distinct functional subtypes of chemotherapy resistance. In addition, and given the potential implications for selection of subsequent treatment, we also performed an exploratory analysis, in relevant patient cohorts, of the predictive value of each of the specific genes identified in our cellular models.
Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective
Authors: Shah Jay P. , Thaker Nikki , Heimur Juliana , Aredo Jacqueline V. , Sikdar Siddhartha , Gerber Lynn
Published: February 2015

The intent of this article is to discuss the evolving role of the myofascial trigger point (MTrP) in myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) from both a historical and scientific perspective. MTrPs are hard, discrete, palpable nodules in a taut band of skeletal muscle that may be spontaneously painful (i.e., active) or painful only on compression (i.e., latent). MPS is a term used to describe a pain condition that can be acute or, more commonly, chronic and involves the muscle and its surrounding connective tissue (e.g. fascia). According to Travell and Simons, MTrPs are central to the syndrome—but are they necessary? Although the clinical study of muscle pain and MTrPs has proliferated over the past two centuries, the scientific literature often seems disjointed and confusing. Unfortunately, much of the terminology, theories, concepts, and diagnostic criteria are inconsistent, incomplete, or controversial. To address these deficiencies, investigators have recently applied clinical, imaging (of skeletal muscle and brain), and biochemical analyses to systematically and objectively study the MTrP and its role in MPS. Data suggest that the soft tissue milieu around the MTrP, neurogenic inflammation, sensitization, and limbic system dysfunction may all play a role in the initiation, amplification, and perpetuation of MPS. The authors chronicle the advances that have led to the current understanding of MTrP pathophysiology and its relationship to MPS, and review the contributions of clinicians and researchers who have influenced and expanded our contemporary level of clinical knowledge and practice.
Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis in an Adult: An Uncommon Case of Paroxysmal Sympathetic Hyperactivity
Authors: Holder Eric K. , McCall Joseph C. , Feeko Kristofer J.
Published: February 2015

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an uncommon acute, rapidly progressive autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that is most often due to infection or immunization. Generally, it is monophasic, but there is potential for recurrence and risk for development of multiple sclerosis. Although there has been literature documenting autonomic dysreflexia and hypertensive emergency in 2 pediatric cases of ADEM, to our knowledge there has not been a case detailing paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity in an adult patient with ADEM. This case report describes a fulminant case of ADEM and serves to expand the list of diagnoses associated with paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity.
LA GERONTOCRACIA Y EL CONSEJO DE ANCIANOS
Authors: Reyes Gómez Laureano , Palacios Gámaz Ana Berónica , Fonseca Córdoba Socorro , Villasana Benítez Susana
Published: February 2015

El poder ejercido por los viejos a través del consejo de ancianos, como sistema de gobierno indígena, fue motivo de estudio por parte de antropólogos y etnólogos, quienes generalizaron esta institución como norma de gobierno de los pueblos originarios. Bajo esta figura, el viejo está investido de sabiduría, prestigio, poder y liderazgo; rasgos de alto estatus social que homogeneiza a toda la población envejecida, haciendo creer que alcanzar edades avanzadas era ingresar de manera automática a un paraíso gerontocrático. Este trabajo discute la lucha intergeneracional por el poder y los cambios de organización social y política de los pueblos indios, y cómo se ha modificado la forma de gobierno, con saldo negativo para la población anciana. Hoy día quedan resquicios de lo que algún día fuera el consejo de ancianos, y sus funciones han sido relegadas a cuestiones rituales, mismas que no ponen en riesgo la toma de decisiones políticas y económicas de la comunidad.
"Aquí los maestros no pegan porque ya no se acostumbra”. Expresiones de la violencia hacia las mujeres en la Universidad de Ciencias y Artes de Chiapas
Authors: Bermúdez-Urbina Flor Marina
Published: February 2015

En este artículo se presenta una caracterización de los tipos de violencia hacia las mujeres en una universidad pública estatal del sureste de México. A partir de la revisión de 97 relatos escritos por jóvenes universitarios se encuentra que los patrones de socialización y estereotipos de género inciden en la violencia que sufren las mujeres.En este estudio se concluye que los docentes hombres aparecen en una proporción importante de relatos como los perpetradores de la violencia psicológica y sexual. Se encuentra también un importante número de casos de violencia de estudiantes varones hacia mujeres en actos asociados principalmente al acoso sexual y académico; en una proporción menor, se registran episodios de violencia psicológica y física entre estudiantes varones, que pueden ser explicados como parte de los patrones de reforzamiento de la masculinidad presentes en los modelos de socialización de género en familias y comunidades rurales de Chiapas.
Mujeres mayas: envejecimiento, pobreza y vulnerabilidad
Authors: Villagómez Valdés Gina , Sánchez González María Consuelo
Published: February 2015

Aquí se analiza la situación de vulnerabilidad de las mujeres adultas mayores en México y, particularmente, en dos comunidades mayas de Campeche y Yucatán, así como las estrategias de las mujeres y su familia para enfrentar la pobreza en un contexto de desigualdad social, exclusión y discriminación contra la gente que se encuentra en el periodo de la senectud. Se identifican algunos aspectos sociodemográficos de la población femenina mayor y los tipos de apoyos o transferencias que reciben del Estado, la comunidad y la familia. También se señalan los recursos que ellas continúan proporcionando al grupo familiar. Con estos datos se observa que la vejez, especialmente la femenina requiere ser atendida con eficiencia; asimismo, y contrariamente a lo que se piensa, las mujeres mayores no son sujetos pasivos o una carga, sino que continúan aportando diversos recursos a la familia.
Migración, etnia y género: tres elementos claves en la comprensión de la vulnerabilidad social ante el VIH/ SIDA en la población maya de Yucatán
Authors: Quintal López Rocío , Vera Gamboa Ligia
Published: February 2015

En el presente trabajo se analiza la manera como la migración, la pertenencia a la etnia maya y el género se conforman como elementos propios de un contexto de vulnerabilidad social, asociados a la potencial adquisición del vih/sida, entre hombres mayas yucatecos que migran semanal o quincenalmente desde sus municipios de origen, ubicados en el interior del estado de Yucatán —concretamente Tadhziú o Chacsinkín—, a Mérida, Cancún y la Riviera Maya. Asimismo, se incluye información sobre la vulnerabilidad a la que se ven expuestas las mujeres parejas de los migrantes, que esperan su retorno en las comunidades de origen. La aproximación se realiza a partir del análisis de los datos obtenidos de la aplicación de la “Encuesta de Identificación de Factores de Vulnerabilidad y Prácticas Sexuales de Riesgo asociados al vih sida y la Migración en población Maya”, diseñada para este estudio.
Predictors of Low-Acuity Emergency Department Use by Patients Enrolled in a Family Health Team
Authors: Jones Paul , Jones Jennifer , O'Brien Kristen , Lee-Poy Michael
Published: February 2015

Background

The primary aim of this study was to determine the characteristics and develop a predictive model describing low acuity users of the emergency department (ED) by patients followed by a family health team (FHT). The secondary aim was to contrast this information with characteristics of high acuity users. We also sought to determine what factors were predictive of leaving without being seen (LWBS).

Methods

This retrospective descriptive correlational study explored characteristics and factors predictive of low acuity ED utilization. The sample included all FHT patients with ED visits in 2011. The last ED record was chosen for review. Sex, age, Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS), presenting complaint(s), time of day, day of week, number of visits, and diagnosis were recorded.

Results

Of 1580 patients who visited the ED in 2011, 56% were CTAS 1–3 visits, 24% CTAS 4–5 and 20% had no CTAS recorded. Patients who were older than age 65 were approximately half as likely to have a CTAS level of 4–5 compared to younger patients (OR=0.605, CI=0.441,0.829). Patients older than age 65 were 1.75 times more likely to be CTAS level 1–2 (OR=1.745, CI=1.277, 2.383). Patients who went to the ED during the day were less likely to LWBS compared to night visits (OR=0.697, CI=0.532, 0.912).

Interpretation

Most low acuity ED utilization is by patients under the age of 65, while high acuity ED utilization is more common among patients older than age 65. Patients are more likely to LWBS during late evening and overnight periods (9 pm–7 am).
Outcome Feedback within Emergency Medicine Training Programs: An Opportunity to Apply the Theory of Deliberate Practice?
Authors: Dalseg Timothy R. , Calder Lisa A. , Lee Curtis , Walker Jaymie , Frank Jason R.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

Outcome feedback is the process of learning patient outcomes after their care within the emergency department. We conducted a national survey of Canadian Royal College emergency medicine (EM) residents and program directors to determine the extent to which active outcome feedback and follow-up occurred. We also compared the perceived educational value of outcome feedback between residents and program directors.

Methods

We distributed surveys to all Royal College-accredited adult and pediatric EM training programs using a modified Dillman method. We analyzed the data using student’s t-test for continuous variables and Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables.

Results

We received 210 completed surveys from 260 eligible residents (80.8%) and 21 of 24 program directors (87.5%) (overall 81.3%). Mandatory active outcome feedback was not present in any EM training program for admitted or discharged patients (0/21). Follow-up was performed electively by 89.4% of residents for patients admitted to the hospital, and by 44.2% of residents for patients discharged home. A majority of residents (76.9%) believed that patient follow-up should be mandatory compared to 42.9% of program directors (p=0.002). The perceived educational value of outcome feedback was 5.8/7 for residents and 5.1/7 for program directors (difference 0.7; p=0.002) based on a seven-point Likert scale (1=not important; 7=very important).

Conclusion

While Canadian EM training programs do not mandate follow-up, it is performed electively by the majority of residents surveyed. Residents place a significantly greater educational value on outcome feedback than their program directors, and believe that follow-up should be a mandatory component of EM residencies.
Interactions of a streamwise-oriented vortex with a finite wing
Authors: Garmann D. J. , Visbal M. R.
Published: February 2015

A canonical study is developed to investigate the unsteady interactions of a streamwise-oriented vortex impinging upon a finite surface using high-fidelity simulation. As a model problem, an analytically defined vortex superimposed on a free stream is convected towards an aspect-ratio-six ($\mathit{AR}=6$) plate oriented at an angle of ${\it\alpha}=4^{\circ }$ and Reynolds number of $\mathit{Re}=20\,000$ in order to characterize the unsteady modes of interaction resulting from different spanwise positions of the incoming vortex. Outboard, tip-aligned and inboard positioning are shown to produce three distinct flow regimes: when the vortex is positioned outboard of, but in close proximity to, the wingtip, it pairs with the tip vortex to form a dipole that propels itself away from the plate through mutual induction, and also leads to an enhancement of the tip vortex. When the incoming vortex is aligned with the wingtip, the tip vortex is initially strengthened by the proximity of the incident vortex, but both structures attenuate into the wake as instabilities arise in the pair’s feeding sheets from the entrainment of opposite-signed vorticity into either structure. Finally, when the incident vortex is positioned inboard of the wingtip, the vortex bifurcates in the time-mean sense with portions convecting above and below the wing, and the tip vortex is mostly suppressed. The time-mean bifurcation is actually a result of an unsteady spiralling instability in the vortex core that reorients the vortex as it impacts the leading edge, pinches off, and alternately attaches to either side of the wing. The increased effective angle of attack inboard of impingement enhances the three-dimensional recirculation region created by the separated boundary layer off the leading edge which draws fluid from the incident vortex inboard and diminishes its impact on the outboard section of the wing. The slight but remaining downwash present outboard of impingement reduces the effective angle of attack in that region, resulting in a small separation bubble on either side of the wing in the time-mean solution, effectively unloading the tip outboard of impingement and suppressing the tip vortex. All incident vortex positions provide substantial increases in the wing’s lift-to-drag ratio; however, significant sustained rolling moments also result. As the vortex is brought inboard, the rolling moment diminishes and eventually switches sign as the reduced outboard loading balances the augmented sectional lift inboard of impingement.
Household Smoking Restrictions Relate to Time to First Cigarette Smoked in the Morning
Authors: Steinberg Marc L. , Stahl Naomi F. , Williams Jill M.
Published: February 2015

Introduction: The time a smoker waits until the first cigarette of the morning is often used as a measure of dependence with the rationale that more dependent smokers will smoke sooner upon waking than will less dependent smokers after going several hours without a cigarette overnight.

Aims: We sought to examine the relationship between time-to-first-cigarette (TTFC) and household smoking restrictions in two independent samples.

Methods: Two samples of smokers, one treatment-seeking community sample (N = 433) and one non-treatment seeking sample of smokers with serious mental illness (i.e., Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, or Bipolar I Disorder) (N = 94), provided information on cigarette dependence with the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) and on household smoking restrictions.

Results: Half (50%) of smokers with serious mental illness and 36.7% of smokers from the general population reported that there were no limitations to smoking in their home. Household smoking restrictions were significantly and positively related to TTFC in both samples.

Conclusions: These data indicate that greater attention to TTFC may be warranted. The TTFC item is intended to measure dependence based on the premise that greater dependence should be associated with shorter TTFC. If TTFC is related to a household smoking ban, however, this item may not be assessing dependence as intended in some cases.
Online topological segmentation of visual sequences using the algebraic connectivity of graphs
Authors: Boal Jaime , Sánchez-Miralles Álvaro
Published: February 2015

In the context of topological mapping, the automatic segmentation of an environment into meaningful and distinct locations is still regarded as an open problem. This paper presents an algorithm to extract places online from image sequences based on the algebraic connectivity of graphs or Fiedler value, which provides an insight into how well connected several consecutive observations are. The main contribution of the proposed method is that it is a theoretically supported alternative to tuning thresholds on similarities, which is a difficult task and environment dependent. It can accommodate any type of feature detector and matching procedure, as it only requires non-negative similarities as input, and is therefore able to deal with descriptors of variable length, to which statistical techniques are difficult to apply. The method has been validated in an office environment using exclusively visual information. Two different types of features, a bag-of-words model built from scale invariant feature transform (SIFT) keypoints, and a more complex fingerprint based on vertical lines, color histograms, and a few Star keypoints, are employed to demonstrate that the method can be applied to both fixed and variable length descriptors with similar results.
The art of common ground: emergence of a complex pragmatic language skill in adolescents with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: DE MARCHENA ASHLEY , EIGSTI INGE-MARIE
Published: February 2015

Deficits in pragmatic language are central to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here we investigatecommon ground, a pragmatic language skill in which speakers adjust the contents of their speech based on their interlocutor's perceived knowledge, in adolescents with ASD and typical development (TD), using an experimental narrative paradigm. Consistent with prior research, TD participants produced shorter narrations when they shared knowledge with an interlocutor, an effect not observed at the group level in ASD. This effect was unrelated to general skills such as IQ or receptive vocabulary. In ASD, the effect was correlated with age and symptom severity: older and less severely affected participantsdidshorten their narratives. Several metrics (including explicit references to common ground, speech disfluencies, and communicative quality ratings) suggested that, although adolescents with ASD did not show implicit reductions in their narrative length, they were aware of common ground, and communicated differently in its presence.
Determinants of Loneliness among Older Adults in Canada
Authors: de Jong Gierveld Jenny , Keating Norah , Fast Janet E.
Published: February 2015

L'objectif de cette étude était de découvrir les déterminants principaux de la solitude des Canadiens âgés. Nous avons tiré sur des hypothèses concernant l'importance de la concordance entre la personne et l'environnement pour tester l'importance relative des caractéristiques personnelles, des conditions de vie privées, du réseau social/engagement social, et de la plausibilité de l'explication de la solitude. Les données comprenaient un échantillon de 3 799 répondants âgés de plus de 65, tirées de l'Enquête sociale générale de Statistique Canada, Cycle 22. Les caractéristiques personnelles, la dimension et la composition des réseaux sociaux, et la satisfaction avec les contacts du réseau, tous sont révélés d'être liés à la solitude, de même que les indicateurs de vivre sous des conditions économiquement et socialement difficiles. Les personnes âgées qui ont connu un recul récente de leurs situations financières, et qui n'avaient pas l'aide nécessaire pour faire face à un défi personnel récente, ont déclaré des niveaux plus élevés de la solitude. Une caractéristique frappante de nos résultats, cependant, c'est les scores relativement faibles sur la solitude des Canadiens âgés par rapport aux personnes âgées dans d'autres pays.
First-Order Convergence and Roots
Authors: CHRISTOFIDES DEMETRES , KRÁL’ DANIEL
Published: February 2015

Nešetřil and Ossona de Mendez introduced the notion of first-order convergence, which unifies the notions of convergence for sparse and dense graphs. They asked whether, if (Gi)i∈ℕ is a sequence of graphs with M being their first-order limit and v is a vertex of M, then there exists a sequence (vi)i∈ℕ of vertices such that the graphs Gi rooted at vi converge to M rooted at v. We show that this holds for almost all vertices v of M, and we give an example showing that the statement need not hold for all vertices.
Effects of salinity and sea salt type on egg activation, fertilization, buoyancy and early embryology of European eel, Anguilla anguilla
Authors: Sørensen Sune Riis , Butts Ian Anthony Ernest , Munk Peter , Tomkiewicz Jonna
Published: February 2015

Improper activation and swelling of in vitro produced eggs of European eel, Anguilla anguilla, has been shown to negatively affect embryonic development and hatching. We investigated this phenomenon by examining the effects of salinity and sea salt type on egg dimensions, cell cleavage patterns and egg buoyancy. Egg diameter after activation, using natural seawater adjusted to different salinities, varied among female eels, but no consistent pattern emerged. Activation salinities between 30–40 practical salinity unit (psu) produced higher quality eggs and generally larger egg diameters. Chorion diameters reached maximal values of 1642 ± 8 μm at 35 psu. A positive relationship was found between egg neutral buoyancy and activation salinity. Nine salt types were investigated as activation and incubation media. Five of these types induced a substantial perivitelline space (PVS), leading to large egg sizes, while the remaining four salt types resulted in smaller eggs. All salt types except NaCl treatments led to high fertilization rates and had no effect on fertilization success as well as egg neutral buoyancies at 7 h post-fertilization. The study points to the importance of considering ionic composition of the media when rearing fish eggs and further studies are encouraged.
In vitro embryos production after oocytes treatment with forskolin
Authors: Paschoal Daniela Martins , Maziero Rosiára Rosária Dias , Sudano Mateus José , Guastali Midyan Daroz , Vergara Luis Eduardo , Crocomo Letícia Ferrari , Lima-Neto João Ferreira de , Magalhães Luis Carlos Oña , Monteiro Bianca Andriolo , Rascado Tatiana da Silva , Martins Alício , Leal Claudia Lima Verde , Landim-Alvarenga Fernanda da Cruz
Published: February 2015

The inhibition of nuclear maturation allows time for the oocyte to accumulate molecules that are important for embryonic development. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of blocking oocyte meiosis with the addition of forskolin, an efficient inhibitor of nuclear maturation, in in vitro maturation (IVM) medium. Forskolin was added to the IVM medium for 6 h at concentrations of 0.1 mM, 0.05 mM or 0.025 mM, then the oocytes were allowed to mature in drug-free medium for 18 h. The oocytes were assessed for the stage of nuclear maturation, the activity and distribution of mitochondria, oocyte ultrastructure, the number of viable cells and the apoptosis rate. After forskolin treatment, the oocytes were fertilized in vitro and cultured for 7 days. On day 7, the blastocyst rate, the ultrastructure, the number of intact cells and the apoptosis rate of the blastocysts were measured. No differences were observed for the stage of nuclear maturation of the oocyte, the mitochondrial activity and distribution, the blastocyst rate or total number of intact cells. However, a higher rate of apoptosis was observed in the blastocysts produced from oocytes blocked for 6 h with the higher concentration of forskolin (P < 0.05). We conclude that all the experimental groups reached the MII stage after the addition of forskolin and that the highest concentration of forskolin caused cellular degeneration without harming embryo production on the 7th day.
Regulation of recombinant human insulin-induced maturational events inClarias batrachus(L.) oocytesin vitro
Authors: Hajra Sudip , Das Debabrata , Ghosh Pritha , Pal Soumojit , Nath Poulomi , Maitra Sudipta
Published: February 2015

Regulation of insulin-mediated resumption of meiotic maturation in catfish oocytes was investigated. Insulin stimulation of post-vitellogenic oocytes promotes the synthesis of cyclin B, histone H1 kinase activation and a germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) response in a dose-dependent and duration-dependent manner. The PI3K inhibitor wortmannin abrogates recombinant human (rh)-insulin action on histone H1 kinase activation and meiotic G2–M1 transition in denuded and follicle-enclosed oocytesin vitro.While the translational inhibitor cycloheximide attenuates rh-insulin action, priming with transcriptional blocker actinomycin D prevents insulin-stimulated maturational response appreciably, albeit in low amounts. Compared with rh-insulin, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) stimulation of follicle-enclosed oocytesin vitrotriggers a sharp increase in 17α,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (17α,20β-DHP) secreted in the incubation medium at 12 h. Interestingly, the insulin, but not the hCG-induced, maturational response shows less susceptibility to steroidogenesis inhibitors, trilostane ordl-aminoglutethimide. In addition, priming with phosphodiesterase inhibitor, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) or cell-permeable dbcAMP or adenylyl cyclase activator forskolin reverses the action of insulin on meiotic G2–M1 transition. Conversely, the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor, SQ 22536, or PKA inhibitor H89 promotes the resumption of meiosis alone and further potentiates the GVBD response in the presence of rh-insulin. Furthermore, insulin-mediated meiotic maturation involves the down-regulation of endogenous protein kinase A (PKA) activity in a manner sensitive to PI3K activation, suggesting potential involvement of a cross-talk between cAMP/PKA and insulin-mediated signalling cascade in catfish oocytesin vitro.Taken together, these results suggest that rh-insulin regulation of the maturational response inC. batrachusoocytes involves down-regulation of PKA, synthesis of cyclin B, and histone H1 kinase activation and demonstrates reduced sensitivity to steroidogenesis and transcriptional inhibition.
Academic achievement and satisfaction in adolescents with CHD
Authors: Schaefer Christina J. , Hoop Ricarda , Schürch-Reith Stefanie , Stambach Dominik , Kretschmar Oliver , Bauersfeld Urs , Latal Beatrice , Landolt Markus A.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To evaluate academic achievement and satisfaction in adolescents with CHD.

Study design

Questionnaires were sent to all adolescents, aged between 17 and 20 years with CHD, currently treated at our hospital (n=326) in order to assess the patients’ education and satisfaction with their academic career. Results were compared with the official community statistics.

Results

A total of 207 patients completed the questionnaires (participation rate 63.5%), 113 boys and 94 girls; 50% had completed mandatory school at the highest, 37.3% at the middle, and 12.7% at the lowest educational level. The distribution in the general population was comparable: 57.6, 32.5, and 9.9%, respectively (p=0.8). Adolescents with severe CHD were less likely to attain a higher educational level than those with moderate or mild CHD (p=0.03 for school grades 7–9). None of the other examined medical or socio-demographic factors, such as socio-economic status, foreign language, severity of CHD, cyanosis, and open heart surgery, were found to be associated with lower educational attainment. After the mandatory 9 years of schooling, 21.4% (n=44) of the patients with CHD compared with 16.7% in the general population attended higher school levels heading towards university education (p=0.7). From the 165 patients who provided information on career satisfaction, 79% regarded their job or school situation as being their desired one without a difference for those with severe CHD.

Conclusion

School education in Swiss adolescents with CHD is very similar to the normal population. In addition, the majority of adolescents are satisfied with their educational career. This fact may be due to the good educational support provided during schooling.
Sustaining the Effects of Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention Training
Authors: Shtivelband Annette , Aloise-Young Patricia A. , Chen Peter Y.
Published: February 2015

Background: Gatekeeper training is a promising suicide prevention strategy that is growing in popularity. Although gatekeeper training programs have been found to improve trainee knowledge, self-efficacy, and perceived skills, researchers have found that the benefit of gatekeeper training may not last over time. Aims: The purpose of this study was to identify strategies for strengthening the long-term effects of suicide prevention gatekeeper training. Method: In-depth interviews and focus groups were conducted with gatekeepers (N = 44) and data were analyzed using a qualitative research approach. Results: The results of this study suggest that posttraining interventions may be more effective if they include the following seven themes: (a) social network – connecting with other gatekeepers; (b) continued learning – further education; (c) community outreach – building awareness; (d) accessibility – convenience; (e) reminders – ongoing communication; (f) program improvement –- enhancing previous training; and (g) certification – accreditation. Conclusion: Posttraining interventions that incorporate the themes from this study offer a promising direction in which to sustain the effects of gatekeeper suicide prevention training.
Chitosan hydrogel vaccine generates protective CD8 T cell memory against mouse melanoma
Authors: Highton Andrew J , Kojarunchitt Thunjiradasiree , Girardin Adam , Hook Sarah , Kemp Roslyn A
Published: February 2015

CD8+ T cells are important in the control of viral infections and cancers because of their cytolytic activity. A vaccine able to generate these cells could be beneficial in the prevention or treatment of these diseases. Chitosan hydrogel is a promising vaccine formulation that has previously been shown to generate effector CD8+ T cells in a mouse model. This vaccine promotes sustained release of antigen and adjuvant, which generates a robust effector response. For longer lasting immunity, a memory population of these CD8+ T cells is required to control further disease. We found that vaccination with chitosan hydrogel or dendritic cells using ovalbumin protein as a model antigen and Quil‐A adjuvant provided protection in a subcutaneous melanoma challenge 30 days later. Ovalbumin‐specific memory CD8+ T cells were detectable following vaccination with the chitosan hydrogel but not the dendritic cell vaccine and an in vivo cytotoxicity assay demonstrated specific lysis of target cells in chitosan hydrogel vaccinated mice but not those receiving dendritic cell vaccination. These results demonstrate that vaccination with chitosan hydrogel is equally effective as dendritic cell vaccination in tumour protection but has more readily detectable immune correlates of protection. This may be advantageous in predetermining protection in vaccinated individuals.
Chemokine and chemokine receptor structure and interactions: implications for therapeutic strategies
Authors: Kufareva Irina , Salanga Catherina L , Handel Tracy M
Published: February 2015

The control of cell migration by chemokines involves interactions with two types of receptors: seven transmembrane chemokine‐type G protein‐coupled receptors and cell surface or extracellular matrix‐associated glycosaminoglycans. Coordinated interaction of chemokines with both types of receptors is required for directional migration of cells in numerous physiological and pathological processes. Accumulated structural information, culminating most recently in the structure of a chemokine receptor in complex with a chemokine, has led to a view where chemokine oligomers bind to glycosaminoglycans through epitopes formed when chemokine subunits come together, while chemokine monomers bind to receptors in a pseudo two‐step mechanism of receptor activation. Exploitation of this structural knowledge has and will continue to provide important information for therapeutic strategies, as described in this review.
No evidence of inhibition of horizontal gene transfer by CRISPR–Cas on evolutionary timescales
Authors: Gophna Uri , Kristensen David M , Wolf Yuri I , Popa Ovidiu , Drevet Christine , Koonin Eugene V
Published: February 2015

The CRISPR (clustered, regularly, interspaced, short, palindromic repeats)–Cas (CRISPR-associated genes) systems of archaea and bacteria provide adaptive immunity against viruses and other selfish elements and are believed to curtail horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Limiting acquisition of new genetic material could be one of the sources of the fitness cost of CRISPR–Cas maintenance and one of the causes of the patchy distribution of CRISPR–Cas among bacteria, and across environments. We sought to test the hypothesis that the activity of CRISPR–Cas in microbes is negatively correlated with the extent of recent HGT. Using three independent measures of HGT, we found no significant dependence between the length of CRISPR arrays, which reflects the activity of the immune system, and the estimated number of recent HGT events. In contrast, we observed a significant negative dependence between the estimated extent of HGT and growth temperature of microbes, which could be explained by the lower genetic diversity in hotter environments. We hypothesize that the relevant events in the evolution of resistance to mobile elements and proclivity for HGT, to which CRISPR–Cas systems seem to substantially contribute, occur on the population scale rather than on the timescale of species evolution.
Weak linkage between the heaviest rainfall and tallest storms
Authors: Hamada Atsushi , Takayabu Yukari N. , Liu Chuntao , Zipser Edward J.
Published: February 2015

Conventionally, the heaviest rainfall has been linked to the tallest, most intense convective storms. However, the global picture of the linkage between extreme rainfall and convection remains unclear. Here we analyse an 11-year record of spaceborne precipitation radar observations and establish that a relatively small fraction of extreme convective events produces extreme rainfall rates in any region of the tropics and subtropics. Robust differences between extreme rainfall and convective events are found in the rainfall characteristics and environmental conditions, irrespective of region; most extreme rainfall events are characterized by less intense convection with intense radar echoes not extending to extremely high altitudes. Rainfall characteristics and environmental conditions both indicate the importance of warm-rain processes in producing extreme rainfall rates. Our results demonstrate that, even in regions where severe convective storms are representative extreme weather events, the heaviest rainfall events are mostly associated with less intense convection.
Real-time tracking of cell cycle progression during CD8+ effector and memory T-cell differentiation
Authors: Kinjyo Ichiko , Qin Jim , Tan Sioh-Yang , Wellard Cameron J. , Mrass Paulus , Ritchie William , Doi Atsushi , Cavanagh Lois L. , Tomura Michio , Sakaue-Sawano Asako , Kanagawa Osami , Miyawaki Atsushi , Hodgkin Philip D. , Weninger Wolfgang
Published: February 2015

The precise pathways of memory T-cell differentiation are incompletely understood. Here we exploit transgenic mice expressing fluorescent cell cycle indicators to longitudinally track the division dynamics of individual CD8+ T cells. During influenza virus infection in vivo, naive T cells enter a CD62Lintermediate state of fast proliferation, which continues for at least nine generations. At the peak of the anti-viral immune response, a subpopulation of these cells markedly reduces their cycling speed and acquires a CD62Lhi central memory cell phenotype. Construction of T-cell family division trees in vitro reveals two patterns of proliferation dynamics. While cells initially divide rapidly with moderate stochastic variations of cycling times after each generation, a slow-cycling subpopulation displaying a CD62Lhi memory phenotype appears after eight divisions. Phenotype and cell cycle duration are inherited by the progeny of slow cyclers. We propose that memory precursors cell-intrinsically modulate their proliferative activity to diversify differentiation pathways.
Supersymmetry-Inspired Non-Hermitian Optical Couplers
Authors: Principe Maria , Castaldi Giuseppe , Consales Marco , Cusano Andrea , Galdi Vincenzo
Published: February 2015

Supersymmetry has been shown to provide a systematic and effective framework for generating classes of isospectral optical structures featuring perfectly-phase-matched modes, with the exception of one (fundamental) mode which can be removed. More recently, this approach has been extended to non-Hermitian scenarios characterized by spatially-modulated distributions of optical loss and gain, in order to allow the removal of higher-order modes as well. In this paper, we apply this approach to the design of non-Hermitian optical couplers with higher-order mode-selection functionalities, with potential applications to mode-division multiplexing in optical links. In particular, we highlight the critical role of the coupling between non-Hermitian optical waveguides, which generally induces a phase transition to a complex eigenspectrum, thereby hindering the targeted mode-selection functionality. With the specific example of an optical coupler that selects the second-order mode of a given waveguide, we illustrate the aforementioned limitations and propose possible strategies to overcome them, bearing in mind the practical feasibility of the gain levels required.
Fouling in microstructured devices: a review
Authors: Schoenitz M. , Grundemann L. , Augustin W. , Scholl S.
Published: February 2015

This work reviews efforts in the greatest challenge to operate microsystems: fouling and blocking.
Manganese sesquioxide to trimanganese tetroxide hierarchical hollow nanostructures: effect of gadolinium on structural, thermal, optical and magnetic properties
Authors: Manigandan R. , Giribabu K. , Munusamy S. , Praveen Kumar S. , Muthamizh S. , Dhanasekaran T. , Padmanaban A. , Suresh R. , Stephen A. , Narayanan V.
Published: February 2015

Hollow Mn2O3 and Mn3O4 nanoparticles with different morphologies were obtained from a single precursor, MnC2O4.
The driving forces for twisted or planar intramolecular charge transfer
Authors: Zhong Cheng
Published: February 2015

The driving forces for twisting or planarization of excited D–A (donor–acceptor)-type chromophore have been investigated.
DNA driven self-assembly of micron-sized rods using DNA-grafted bacteriophage fd virions
Authors: Unwin R. R. , Cabanas R. A. , Yanagishima T. , Blower T. R. , Takahashi H. , Salmond G. P. C. , Edwardson J. M. , Fraden S. , Eiser E.
Published: February 2015

We observe aggregation of high aspect ratio, semi-flexible viral rods functionalized with complementary, single-stranded DNA oligomers.
Advances in tandem reactions with organozinc reagents
Authors: Kim Ju Hyun , Ko Young Ok , Bouffard Jean , Lee Sang-gi
Published: February 2015

A review of recent advances in tandem reactions with organozinc reagents that highlight their utility in organic synthesis.
Preparation of a novel thermo responsive PSF membrane, with cross linked PVCL-co-PSF copolymer for protein separation and easy cleaning
Authors: Sinha M. K. , Purkait M. K.
Published: February 2015

An amphiphilic thermo responsive PVCL-co-PSF copolymer was synthesized with enhanced pore density and hydrophilicity. It was found to have high hydration capacity and low BSA adsorption, with 92.5% and 95% flux recovery ratios achieved for BSA and HA, respectively.
Transcriptome analysis reveals the oxidative stress response in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Zhao Hongwei , Chen Jingyu , Liu Jingjing , Han Beizhong
Published: February 2015

A global regulatory network involving the response to the oxidation stress inSaccharomyces cerevisiaewas revealed in this study.
Electron transport properties of fulgide-based photochromic switches
Authors: Nemnes G. A. , Visan Camelia
Published: February 2015

The transport properties of fulgide-based photochromic switches are investigated in the framework of density functional theory calculations.
Reagent-free photochemical silver dendrite synthesis on a gallium nitride thin film as a SERS-active substrate and catalytic cluster
Authors: Nie Bei , Zhou Qiuhong , Fu Weiling
Published: February 2015

A photochemical approach for dendrite synthesis on a GaN substrate is presented.
Cerium nanoparticles synthesized using aqueous extract of Centella asiatica: characterization, determination of free radical scavenging activity and evaluation of efficacy against cardiomyoblast hypertrophy
Authors: Sankar Vandana , SalinRaj Palayyan , Athira Raj , Soumya Rema Sreenivasan , Raghu Kozhiparambil Gopalan
Published: February 2015

Cerium nanoparticles synthesized usingCentella asiaticawere characterized, and tested for radical scavenging activities, cellular uptake, cytotoxicity and efficacy against cardiomyoblast hypertrophy and calcium overload.
Pickering emulsion polymerized smart magnetic poly(methyl methacrylate)/Fe2O3 composite particles and their stimulus-response
Authors: Ahn Woo Jin , Jung Hyo Seung , Choi Hyoung Jin
Published: February 2015

Smart polymer/inorganic composite magnetic particles were synthesized by Pickering emulsion polymerization using magnetic iron oxide (Fe2O3) particles as a solid stabilizer.
N-doped carbon nanosheets with antibacterial activity: mechanistic insight
Authors: Chakraborty Amlan , Patni Pranav , Suhag Deepa , Saini Gajender , Singh Anirudha , Chakrabarti Sandip , Mukherjee Monalisa
Published: February 2015

Carbon nanosheets with sharp “knife-like” edges interact with an E. coli bacterial membrane resulting in cell death.
Phenothiazine-functionalized redox polymers for a new cathode-active material
Authors: Golriz Ali A. , Suga Takeo , Nishide Hiroyuki , Berger Rüdiger , Gutmann Jochen S.
Published: February 2015

Redox-active, phenothiazine-functionalized polymers were synthesized and employed as a promising cathode-active material (∼3.7 Vvs.Li, 77 Ah kg−1) in a rechargeable battery.
Removal of Rhodamine B from wastewater by modified Volvariella volvacea: batch and column study
Authors: Li Qiao , Tang Xia , Sun Yuanyuan , Wang Yifan , Long Yunchuan , Jiang Juan , Xu Heng
Published: February 2015

This study investigated the biosorption of Rhodamine B (a carcinogenic dye) onto Volvariella volvacea in batch and bed column experiments.
Mechanical analysis of rat trabecular meshwork
Authors: Huang Jianyong , Camras Lucinda J. , Yuan Fan
Published: February 2015

We developed a method to quantify the initial Young's modulus of rat trabecular meshwork (TM) in situ, based on atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Control of micro/mesoporosity in non-hydrolytic hybrid silicophosphate xerogels
Authors: Styskalik Ales , Skoda David , Moravec Zdenek , Babiak Michal , Barnes Craig E. , Pinkas Jiri
Published: February 2015

Non-hydrolytic sol–gel reactions of acetoxysilanes with trimethylsilyl esters of phosphoric and phosphonic acids provide hybrid xerogels with large surface areas (up to 700 m2 g−1). The presence of SiO6 structural units in bridged-phosphoryl xerogels is related to their microporosity while the absence of such moieties in bridged-acetoxysilane networks is congruent with significant mesoporosity.
Sulfur/carbon nanocomposite-filled polyacrylonitrile nanofibers as a long life and high capacity cathode for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Ye Jian , He Feng , Nie Jia , Cao Yuliang , Yang Hanxi , Ai Xinping
Published: February 2015

A cycle-stable sulfur electrode in carbonate-based electrolytes is developed by embedding S/C nanoparticles in the PAN-based nanofibers.
Self-assembled nanoaggregates based on polyaspartamide graft copolymers for pH-controlled release of doxorubicin
Authors: Thuy Van Tran Thi , Lim Cheol Won , Park Jae Hyung , Ahn Cheol-Hee , Kim Dukjoon
Published: February 2015

The hydrazone group was effectively cleaved to release doxorubicin (DOX) conjugated on PASPAM in an acidic environment.
Plant habitat-conscious white light-emitting devices: Dy3+-emission considerably reduces involvement in photosynthesis
Authors: Nakajima Tomohiko , Hanawa Harumi , Tsuchiya Tetsuo
Published: February 2015

A Dy-based phosphor converted white light emitting device is promising for creating new lightings that preserve natural plant habitats.
The electronic and magnetic properties of transition-metal element doped three-dimensional topological Dirac semimetal in Cd3As2
Authors: Jin Hao , Dai Ying , Ma Yan-Dong , Li Xin-Ru , Wei Wei , Yu Lin , Huang Bai-Biao
Published: February 2015

The substitution of Cr atoms could tailor Cd3As2to a ferromagnetic half-metal, with the Curie temperature (Tc) up to room temperature, suggesting powerful potential for further spintronic applications.