bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mercury contamination in some marine biota species from Khuzestan shore, Persian Gulf
Authors: Hosseini Mehdi , Nabavi Seyed Mohammad Bagher , Parsa Yaghoob , Saadatmand Maryam
Published: December 2014

In this study, concentrations of mercury (Hg) were analyzed in some marine biota species (fish, shrimp, and crab) from Khuzestan shore, north part of the Persian Gulf. It was also our intention to evaluate potential risks to human health associated with seafood consumption. The results indicated that concentrations of Hg in the fish and crustacean were different among the species and tissues. Liver in fish and hepatopancreas in crustacean exhibited higher Hg concentration than the other tissues. The highest concentration of Hg was detected in Acanthopagrus latus liver (1.37 µg/g), followed by Labeo rohita (0.87 µg/g), Johnius belangerii (0.79 µg/g), and Barbus grypus (0.69 µg/g), respectively. Also the highest Hg concentrations were detected in shrimp species, Penaeus semisulcatus hepatopancreas (0.95 µg/g), followed by blue crab Portunus pelagicus (0.76 µg/g) and Metapenaues affinis (0.64 µg/g), respectively. The comparison indicated that benthic species were more contaminated than were other pelagic species. The results indicated that highest concentrations of Hg between different stations were detected in Musa estuary. The Hg concentration in all species were low than standards, expect in A. latus and P. semisulcatus collected from Musa estuary (S4). The variation in Hg levels among the species is likely to have resulted from metal bioavailability, changes in tissue composition, habitat,s and locations.
Effects of Satisfaction and Trust on Long-Term Orientation in Small Apparel Retailer–Supplier Relationships
Authors: Cho Jung Rim , Chung Jae-Eun , Hwang Jiyoung
Published: December 2014

The goal of this research was to examine how economic and social satisfactions influence trust-credibility and trust-benevolence and ultimately, long-term orientation in the context of the small apparel retailer-supplier relationship. Moreover, this study investigated the moderating influences of power in the relationships between trust-credibility, trust-benevolence, and long-term orientation. Findings indicated that economic and social satisfactions had a positive influence on both trust-credibility and trust-benevolence. Furthermore, the results showed positive influences of trust-credibility and trust-benevolence on long-term orientation. The balance of power between retailers and suppliers had a moderating influence on the relationship between trust-credibility and long-term orientation, but not on trust-benevolence and long-term orientation. The results of the research contribute to a more in-depth understanding of the small apparel retailer-supplier relationship, which is currently extremely limited.
Implementation failures revisited: Policy regime perspectives
Authors: May Peter J
Published: December 2014

The cataloging of failures when putting policies in place has been the hallmark of implementation studies since the 1970s. The numerous lessons from this research can be distilled into guidance about improving policy design to enhance implementation prospects and other suggestions for overcoming administrative obstacles. This contribution extends these lessons by addressing how the governing arrangements for addressing policy problems—the policy regimes that are put in place—either work to reinforce or undermine political commitments enshrined within policies. Regimes mediate feedback effects of policies in affecting policy legitimacy, coherence, and durability. These notions about policy regimes are contrasted with traditional perspectives about implementation failures. The value of a regime perspective in studying policy implementation and governing is illustrated for the case of the Affordable Care Act in the United States of America (USA).
Robust L∞ convex pose-graph optimisation for monocular localisation solution for unmanned aerial vehicles
Authors: Boulekchour Mohammed , Aouf Nabil , Richardson Mark
Published: December 2014

In this study, a robust L∞ convex pose-graph optimisation solution for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) monocular motion estimation with loop closing is presented. Most solutions proposed in literature formulate the pose-graph optimisation as a least-squares problem by minimising a cost function using iterative methods such as Gauss–Newton or Levenberg–Marquardt algorithms. However, with these algorithms, there is no guarantee to converge to a global minimum as they, with high probabilities, converge to a local minimum or even to an infeasible solution. The solution we propose in this work uses a new robust convex optimisation pose-graph technique, which efficiently corrects the UAV’s pose after loop-closure detections. Uncertainty estimation using derivative method and its propagation through multiview geometry algorithms are included in the developed solution. The detection of the visual loop closures, in appearance-based navigation, is achieved with our innovative, fast and efficient method based on Bayes decision theory with Gaussian mixture model in combination with the KD-tree data structure. Our navigation solution has been validated using real-world data in both indoor and outdoor environments acquired by a UAV equipped with a monocular system.
Biomechanical testing of an innovative fixation procedure to stabilize olecranon osteotomy
Authors: Reising Kilian , Konstantinidis Lukas , Helwig Peter , Wagner Ferdinand C , Südkamp Norbert P , Strohm Peter C
Published: December 2014

For the treatment of distal humerus an approach involving olecranon osteotomy is frequently preferred as it offers a clearer view, especially in cases of complex intraarticular fractures. It is however associated with the high risk of osteotomy-related complications such as nonunion, delayed healing, implant failure and migration of wires. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the stability of different new procedures that stabilize olecranon osteotomy compared with conventional tension band wiring. We hypothesize that the new implants provide equivalent stability as the conventional tension band wiring. To test the hypothesis 27 biomechanically evaluated synthetic ulnae were osteotomized and stabilized with either the application of tension band wiring, the Olecranon Hook LCP (Synthes, Switzerland), or the Olecranon Osteotomy nail (Synthes, Switzerland). Loading was performed providing a tensile load to simulate the tensile force applied by the triceps muscle. Cyclic force-controlled loading was performed at 300 alternating forces between 10N and 500N at a speed of 200N/sec. An ultrasound-based system measured displacement to an accuracy of 0.1 mm. Statistical analysis showed significantly less displacement in the Olecranon Hook LCP and Olecranon Osteotomy nail groups compared with tension banding. Comparison of plate and nail yielded no differences in stability. Biomechanical testing did however show significantly higher stability for newer fixation methods for olecranon osteotomies compared with the frequently applied technique of tension band wiring. Whether the use of these implants will also lower complication rates remains to be evaluated in future clinical studies.

Level of evidence: Basic Science Study, Biomechanical Study.
The effect of in situ/in vitro three-dimensional quantitative computed tomography image voxel size on the finite element model of human vertebral cancellous bone
Authors: Lu Yongtao , Engelke Klaus , Glueer Claus-C , Morlock Michael M , Huber Gerd
Published: December 2014

Quantitative computed tomography–based finite element modeling technique is a promising clinical tool for the prediction of bone strength. However, quantitative computed tomography–based finite element models were created from image datasets with different image voxel sizes. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is an influence of image voxel size on the finite element models. In all 12 thoracolumbar vertebrae were scanned prior to autopsy (in situ) using two different quantitative computed tomography scan protocols, which resulted in image datasets with two different voxel sizes (0.29 × 0.29 × 1.3 mm3 vs 0.18 × 0.18 × 0.6 mm3). Eight of them were scanned after autopsy (in vitro) and the datasets were reconstructed with two voxel sizes (0.32 × 0.32 × 0.6 mm3 vs. 0.18 × 0.18 × 0.3 mm3). Finite element models with cuboid volume of interest extracted from the vertebral cancellous part were created and inhomogeneous bilinear bone properties were defined. Axial compression was simulated. No effect of voxel size was detected on the apparent bone mineral density for both the in situ and in vitro cases. However, the apparent modulus and yield strength showed significant differences in the two voxel size group pairs (in situ and in vitro). In conclusion, the image voxel size may have to be considered when the finite element voxel modeling technique is used in clinical applications.
Accuracy evaluation of a new stereophotogrammetry-based functional method for joint kinematic analysis in biomechanics
Authors: Galetto Maurizio , Gastaldi Laura , Lisco Giulia , Mastrogiacomo Luca , Pastorelli Stefano
Published: December 2014

The human joint kinematics is an interesting topic in biomechanics and turns to be useful for the analysis of human movement in several fields. A crucial issue regards the assessment of joint parameters, like axes and centers of rotation, due to the direct influence on human motion patterns. A proper accuracy in the estimation of these parameters is hence required. On the whole, stereophotogrammetry-based predictive methods and, as an alternative, functional ones can be used to this end. This article presents a new functional algorithm for the assessment of knee joint parameters, based on a polycentric hinge model for the knee flexion–extension. The proposed algorithm is discussed, identifying its fields of application and its limits. The techniques for estimating the joint parameters from the metrological point of view are analyzed, so as to lay the groundwork for enhancing and eventually replacing predictive methods, currently used in the laboratories of human movement analysis. This article also presents an assessment of the accuracy associated with the whole process of measurement and joint parameters estimation. To this end, the presented functional method is tested through both computer simulations and a series of experimental laboratory tests in which swing motions were imposed to a polycentric mechanical analogue and a stereophotogrammetric system was used to record them.
Design of a non-homogeneous differentiator for actuator oscillatory failure case reconstruction in noisy environment
Authors: Cieslak Jérôme , Efimov Denis , Zolghadri Ali , Henry David , Goupil Philippe
Published: December 2014

This work addresses the problem of oscillatory failure case detection in the electrical flight control system of a generic commercial airplane. A non-homogeneous differentiator is first used to provide accurate derivatives in noisy environment and fast convergence time. In this study case, fault detection is addressed in the unknown input estimation issue for fault reconstruction with the same evaluation techniques currently employed in Airbus A380 airplanes. Based on the non-homogeneous differentiator theory, an algorithm for differentiator tuning is provided to manage a trade-off between the accuracy of fault reconstruction and the convergence time that is compliant with specified detection time requirements. Performance and robustness of the developed monitoring strategy are assessed using a high-fidelity Airbus benchmark and a parametric test campaign for the flight scenarios defined in the EU-FP7 ADDSAFE project.
Examining Intuitive Cancer Risk Perceptions in Haitian-Creole and Spanish-Speaking Populations
Authors: Hay Jennifer L. , Brennessel Debra , Kemeny M. Margaret , Lubetkin Erica I.
Published: December 2014

Background: There is a developing emphasis on intuition and affect in the illness risk perception process, yet there have been no available strategies to measure these constructs in non-English speakers. This study examined the comprehensibility and acceptability of translations of cancer risk beliefs in Haitian-Creole and Spanish. Method: An established, iterative, team-based translation process was employed. Cognitive interviews ( n = 20 in Haitian-Creole speakers; n = 23 in Spanish speakers) were conducted in an inner-city primary care clinic by trained interviewers who were native speakers of each language. Use of an established coding scheme for problematic terms and ambiguous concepts resulted in rewording and dropping items. Results: Most items (90% in the Haitian-Creole version; 87% in the Spanish version) were highly comprehensible. Discussion: This work will allow for further research examining health outcomes associated with risk perceptions across diverse, non-English language subgroups, paving the way for targeted risk communication with these populations.
Proteinuria with first-line therapy of metastatic renal cell cancer
Authors: Land Josiah D , Chen Adrienne H , Atkinson Bradley J , Cauley Diana H , Tannir Nizar M
Published: December 2014

Background

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitors, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors are approved for metastatic renal cell cancer. Proteinuria can occur, but there is limited data regarding the incidence, monitoring, and management in metastatic renal cell cancer patients.

Objective

Our primary objective was to describe the incidence and severity of proteinuria in metastatic renal cell cancer patients treated in the first-line setting with pazopanib, bevacizumab, or everolimus.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients with metastatic renal cell cancer enrolled from January 2011–April 2013 in a phase II trial. Baseline and toxicity data were extracted from the electronic medical record. Descriptive statistics were used.

Results

In all, 129 patients were eligible for analysis. The overall incidence of proteinuria was 81%, with most events being Grade 1 or 2. The incidence of proteinuria was 80% ( n = 35) for pazopanib, 64% ( n = 25) for bevacizumab, and 96% ( n = 44) for everolimus. At peak proteinuria, 80% ( n = 28), 64% ( n = 16), and 80% ( n = 35) of patients on pazopanib, bevacizumab, and everolimus, respectively, were managed with continued monitoring at the same dose. The overall incidence of Grades 3 and 4 events was 24% ( n = 6) and found in the bevacizumab group.

Conclusion

A high incidence of proteinuria with minor severity within each class was demonstrated. It may be reasonable to continue therapy at the same dose for Grade 1 or 2 proteinuria. Treatment modification or discontinuation of therapy may be warranted with Grade 3 or 4 proteinuria.
The trials of imperialism: Radhabinod Pal’s dissent at the Tokyo tribunal
Authors: Varadarajan Latha
Published: December 2014

At the end of the Second World War, the leaders of the defeated Axis powers were tried for crimes against peace, war crimes, and crimes against humanity in two specially established international military tribunals. Unlike at the vaunted Nuremberg trials, the judgment of the less-illustrious Tokyo tribunal was not unanimous. In his dissenting opinion, Justice Radhabinod Pal of India comprehensively disagreed with all aspects of the trial, finding all defendants “not guilty” of the charges leveled against them. Despite being considered quite incendiary at that time, the dissenting opinion has been largely ignored by International Relations scholarship analyzing the development of legal norms and institutions in global politics. Notwithstanding its many limitations, the questions raised in Pal’s dissent about criminality, power, and justice, while situated in a specific historical moment, remain far from settled. This article provides a second look at Pal’s dissent in order to recover its unique and critical insights into the relationship between imperialism and the development of international law.
Intergroup emulation: An improvement strategy for lower status groups
Authors: Onu Diana , Smith Joanne R. , Kessler Thomas
Published: December 2014

The social psychological literature on social change has focused on how groups overcome oppression and inequality. In this paper, we investigate an alternative strategy that groups employ for social change—the emulation of successful outgroups. We propose that lower status group members will be likely to employ a learning strategy when they perceive the status relations as legitimate (i.e., fair system) and unstable (i.e., own position is improvable). In Study 1 (Romanian undergraduate students, N = 31), we manipulated status legitimacy, while in Study 2 (British undergraduate participants, N = 94), we manipulated legitimacy and stability orthogonally. Overall, when they perceived status hierarchies as legitimate and unstable, participants exhibited higher admiration for the higher status outgroup, higher support for learning-related help (e.g., transfer of know-how, training) from the outgroup and had the most positive attitudes toward intergroup help. We propose that social change sometimes occurs gradually, through help and learning from successful models, and this paper offers insight into such gradual social change.
Bystanding or standing by? How the number of bystanders affects the intention to intervene in cyberbullying
Authors: Obermaier Magdalena , Fawzi Nayla , Koch Thomas
Published: December 2014

This study examines the bystander effect in cyberbullying. On the basis of two experiments, we test whether individuals who witness cyberbullying are less willing to intervene when the number of others who have already observed the incident is increased. In addition, we inquire how differently severe cyberbullying incidents affect bystanders’ intention to intervene. Our results show that a very severe cyberbullying incident boosts individuals’ intention to intervene, mediated by the assessment of the situation as emergency and, in turn, by an increased feeling of responsibility. However, if there is a larger number of bystanders in a cyberbullying incident, rather than just a few, participants feel less responsible to help, and thus, they are less willing to intervene.
Increasing Research Literacy
Authors: Coats Jacquelyn V. , Stafford Jewel D. , Sanders Thompson Vetta , Johnson Javois Bethany , Goodman Melody S.
Published: December 2014

The Community Research Fellows Training (CRFT) Program promotes the role of underserved populations in research by enhancing the capacity for community-based participatory research (CBPR). CRFT consists of 12 didactic training sessions and 3 experiential workshops intended to train community members in research methods and evidence-based public health. The training (a) promotes partnerships between community members and academic researchers, (b) enhances community knowledge of public health research, and (c) trains community members to become critical consumers of research. Fifty community members participated in training sessions taught by multidisciplinary faculty. Forty-five (90%) participants completed the program. Findings demonstrate that the training increased awareness of health disparities, research knowledge, and the capacity to use CBPR as a tool to address disparities.
Use of infrared thermography in children with shock: A case series
Authors: Ortiz-Dosal Alejandra , Kolosovas-Machuca Eleazar S , Rivera-Vega Rosalina , Simón Jorge , González Francisco J
Published: December 2014

Shock is a complex clinical syndrome caused by an acute failure of circulatory function resulting in inadequate tissue and organ perfusion. Digital infrared thermal imaging is a non-invasive technique that can detect changes in blood perfusion by detecting small changes in the temperature of the skin. In this preliminary study, eight pediatric patients (five boys, three girls), ages ranging from 6 to 14 years (average: 9.8 years), were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at “Dr. Ignacio Morones Prieto” Central Hospital; here, the patients were examined using digital infrared thermal imaging. Patients in shock showed a significant decrease in distal temperature (at least 7°), compared to critically ill patients without shock. The latter group presented a skin temperature pattern very similar to the one previously reported for healthy children. The results show that infrared thermography can be used as a non-invasive method for monitoring the temperature in pediatric patients in intensive care units in order to detect shock in its early stages.
Initial Experience with the Use of Thrombopoetin Receptor Agonists in Patients with Refractory HIV-Associated Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Kowalczyk Mark , Rubinstein Paul G. , Aboulafia David M.
Published: December 2014

HIV-associated immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) has decreased in incidence 10-fold since the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). For patients with detectable HIV viral loads, first-line treatment approaches involve optimizing HAART followed by standard ITP options used to treat those without HIV infection. In the general population, the thrombopoetin receptor agonists (TRAs), eltrombopag and romiplostim, are effective when used as salvage ITP therapy. In addition, eltrombopag has been used effectively in patients with thrombocytopenia secondary to hepatitis C—a virus seen commonly in HIV-infected patients, especially in those who also have a history of intravenous drug use. There are, however, few reports or studies of TRAs use in those with HIV infection. Herein, we describe 5 cases of refractory HIV-associated ITP managed with TRAs. Although platelet counts improved for all patients, 2 patients succumbed to thromboembolic complications. Our initial experience, as well as our findings from a Medline review, supports the potential utility of TRA as salvage therapy in the treatment of HIV-related ITP; however, we recommend caution in the use of these agents in those who are at highest risk of thrombosis. Additional studies are needed to determine the efficacy and, more importantly, the safety of TRAs in treatment of HIV-associated ITP.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of asextruded Mg–xAl–5Sn–0·3Mn alloys (x = 1, 3, 6 and 9)
Authors: She J. , Pan F. , Peng P. , Tang A. , Yu Z. , Wu L. , Pan H. , Zhao C. , Gao Z. , Luo S. , Rashad M.
Published: December 2014

Properties of Mg– xAl–5Sn–0·3Mn alloys ( x = 1, 3, 6 and 9) prepared by hot extrusion are reported. The orientation relationship between Mg2Sn precipitate and Mg matrix in Mg–9Al–5Sn–0·3Mn alloy was determined. The yield strength of the as extruded alloys initially decreased with increasing Al content, then increased for Al contents >6 wt-. These changes are interpreted in terms of the effect of texture, grain size and second phase on the yield strength of the alloys.
High Tensile Wires in Removable Appliances
Authors: Houston W. J. B. , Farrant S. D. , Waters N. E.
Published: December 2014

It is suggested that high tensile stainless steel wires have a useful place in the fabrication of flexible removable appliance components. The properties of resilient components will be improved and the danger of distortion by the patient reduced.
Engineered antigen-specific human regulatory T cells: immunosuppression of FVIII-specific T- and B-cell responses
Authors: Kim Yong Chan , Zhang Ai-Hong , Su Yan , Rieder Sadiye Amcaoglu , Rossi Robert J. , Ettinger Ruth A. , Pratt Kathleen P. , Shevach Ethan M. , Scott David W.
Published: December 2014

Key Points

Generation and function of specific human Tregs. Specific regulation of FVIII responses by engineered human Tregs.
The second transferrin receptor regulates red blood cell production in mice
Authors: Nai Antonella , Lidonnici Maria Rosa , Rausa Marco , Mandelli Giacomo , Pagani Alessia , Silvestri Laura , Ferrari Giuliana , Camaschella Clara
Published: December 2014

Key Points

TFR2, a gene mutated in hemochromatosis and a partner of the EPO receptor, limits erythropoiesis expansion in mice. Iron deficiency mimics TFR2 deletion in the erythroid compartment.
Multi-step extragradient method with regularization for triple hierarchical variational inequalities with variational inclusion and split feasibility constraints
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Pang Chin-Tzong , Wen Ching-Feng
Published: December 2014

By combining Korpelevich’s extragradient method, the viscosity approximation method, the hybrid steepest-descent method, Mann’s iteration method, and the gradient-projection method with regularization, a hybrid multi-step extragradient algorithm with regularization for finding a solution of triple hierarchical variational inequality problem is introduced and analyzed. It is proven that under appropriate assumptions, the proposed algorithm converges strongly to a unique solution of a triple hierarchical variational inequality problem which is defined over the set of solutions of a hierarchical variational inequality problem defined over the set of common solutions of finitely many generalized mixed equilibrium problems (GMEP), finitely many variational inclusions, fixed point problems, and the split feasibility problem (SFP). We also prove the strong convergence of the proposed algorithm to a common solution of the SFP, finitely many GMEPs, finitely many variational inclusions, and the fixed point problem of a strict pseudocontraction. The results presented in this paper improve and extend the corresponding results announced by several others.

MSC:49J30, 47H09, 47J20, 49M05.
Association between Pseudomonas aeruginosa type III secretion, antibiotic resistance, and clinical outcome: a review
Authors: Sawa Teiji , Shimizu Masaru , Moriyama Kiyoshi , Wiener-Kronish Jeanine P
Published: December 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses a complex type III secretion system to inject the toxins ExoS, ExoT, ExoU, and ExoY into the cytosol of target eukaryotic cells. This system is regulated by the exoenzyme S regulon and includes the transcriptional activator ExsA. Of the four toxins, ExoU is characterized as the major virulence factor responsible for alveolar epithelial injury in patients with P. aeruginosa pneumonia. Virulent strains of P. aeruginosa possess the exoU gene, whereas non-virulent strains lack this particular gene. The mechanism of virulence for the exoU
+
genotype relies on the presence of a pathogenic gene cluster (PAPI-2) encoding exoU and its chaperone, spcU. The ExoU toxin has a patatin-like phospholipase domain in its N-terminal, exhibits phospholipase A2 activity, and requires a eukaryotic cell factor for activation. The C-terminal of ExoU has a ubiquitinylation mechanism of activation. This probably induces a structural change in enzymatic active sites required for phospholipase A2 activity. In P. aeruginosa clinical isolates, the exoU
+
genotype correlates with a fluoroquinolone resistance phenotype. Additionally, poor clinical outcomes have been observed in patients with pneumonia caused by exoU
+
-fluoroquinolone-resistant isolates. Therefore, the potential exists to improve clinical outcomes in patients with P. aeruginosa pneumonia by identifying virulent and antimicrobial drug-resistant strains through exoU genotyping or ExoU protein phenotyping or both.
New targets for new therapeutic approaches
Authors: François Bruno
Published: December 2014

Because of its resistance profiles, Pseudomonas aeruginosa remains probably one of the challenging bacteria responsible for ventilator-associated pneumonia in the ICU. Nevertheless, a much better understanding of its mechanism of virulence, such as the type 3 secretion system that can also impact on resistance, gives some opportunities for management improvement. The most promising approach is probably the production of monoclonal antibodies that enable not only more targeted treatments but also development of some early preemptive approaches at the time of colonization through real-time diagnosis.
Bone marrow stromal antigen 2 expressed in cancer cells promotes mammary tumor growth and metastasis
Authors: Mahauad-Fernandez Wadie D , DeMali Kris A , Olivier Alicia K , Okeoma Chioma M
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Several innate immunity genes are overexpressed in human cancers and their roles remain controversial. Bone marrow stromal antigen 2 (BST-2) is one such gene whose role in cancer is not clear. BST-2 is a unique innate immunity gene with both antiviral and pro-tumor functions and therefore can serve as a paradigm for understanding the roles of other innate immunity genes in cancers.

Methods

Meta-analysis of tumors from breast cancer patients obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets were evaluated for levels of BST-2 expression and for tumor aggressiveness. In vivo, we examined the effect of knockdown of BST-2 in two different murine carcinoma cells on tumor growth, metastasis, and survival. In vitro, we assessed the effect of carcinoma cell BST-2 knockdown and/or overexpression on adhesion, anchorage-independent growth, migration, and invasion.

Results

BST-2 in breast tumors and mammary cancer cells is a strong predictor of tumor size, tumor aggressiveness, and host survival. In humans, BST-2 mRNA is elevated in metastatic and invasive breast tumors. In mice, orthotopic implantation of mammary tumor cells lacking BST-2 increased tumor latency, decreased primary tumor growth, reduced metastases to distal organs, and prolonged host survival. Furthermore, we found that the cellular basis for the role of BST-2 in promoting tumorigenesis include BST-2-directed enhancement in cancer cell adhesion, anchorage-independency, migration, and invasion.

Conclusions

BST-2 contributes to the emergence of neoplasia and malignant progression of breast cancer. Thus, BST-2 may (1) serve as a biomarker for aggressive breast cancers, and (2) be a novel target for breast cancer therapeutics.
A multidisciplinary approach to the investigation of “La Caverna dell’Antimateria” (1958–1959) by Pinot Gallizio
Authors: Bartolozzi Giovanni , Cucci Costanza , Marchiafava Veronica , Masi Susanna , Picollo Marcello , Grifoni Emanuela , Legnaioli Stefano , Lorenzetti Giulia , Pagnotta Stefano , Palleschi Vincenzo , Di Girolamo Francesca , La Nasa Jacopo , Modugno Francesca , Colombini Maria Perla
Published: December 2014

Background

This study concerns the application of non-invasive and micro-invasive analyses for the study of a contemporary artwork entitled La Caverna dell’Antimateria (“The Cave of Antimatter”) which was created by Pinot Gallizio in 1958–1959. The work represents one of the most significant examples of industrial painting. It consists of a total of 145 meters of painted canvas, designed in order to cover the entire floor plan of the René Drouin gallery in Paris, where it was displayed for the first time. Gallizio wanted to create an environment in which visitors could find themselves immersed in painting, in what he termed as a “work-environment”.

Non-invasive (Fibre Optic Reflectance Spectroscopy) and micro-invasive analyses (Fourier Transform Infrared and micro-Raman Spectroscopies, Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry) were performed on three of the canvases which constitute this work of art in order to obtain information regarding the artistic materials used by Gallizio.

Results

Pigments and unconventional materials (such as metal wires, sand) are present in the canvases that form the ceiling. The colours are unevenly distributed on the surface, thus revealing large areas of the white preparation below. In the canvas of the wall, instead, the paint is applied more uniformly and gives a dark colour cast. The analytical results led to the identification of many of the materials used by Gallizio. The pictorial palette consists of both inorganic and organic pigments, while polyvinylacetate, pure or mixed with a siccative oil, was identified as a binder thus confirming what was reported by the artist in his notes.

Conclusions

The results of this research provide information concerning the artistic technique used by Pinot Gallizio. The analyses were successfully performed both in situ and on micro-samples in order to characterise the pigments of the coloured area, the ground layer and the organic binders.
Dynamic effective pressure coefficient calibration
Authors: Yu Hua
Published: December 2014

Pore pressure prediction provides an important risk assessment in the oil and gas industry. Most predrill pore-pressure prediction methods from seismic and/or well-log sonic velocities are based on the effective stress principle, which relates velocity variation to the combined effect of overburden stress and pore pressure. In the current practice of pore pressure prediction, the effective stress coefficient [Formula: see text] is often assumed as unity, which is not always the case, especially when sediments are deeply buried and consolidated. To understand the variation of [Formula: see text] with depth, I analyzed density and velocity trends from more than 100 Gulf of Mexico wells near the Louisiana continental shelf edge. In the study area, overpressure zones are present in most wells and compaction disequilibrium is the dominant overpressure mechanism. Normal compaction trends for velocity and density were built. The overburden pressure model was refined by taking into account that the density gradient approaches zero at the onset depth of overpressure. Based on the effective pressure principle, values for [Formula: see text] in the overpressure intervals were estimated in the study area. The average [Formula: see text] values varied from 0.6 to 0.9 inclusive of errors associated with assuming the gradient of mud weight and pore pressure is the same.
Frequency of delusional infestation by proxy and double
delusional infestation in veterinary practice: Observational
study
Authors: Lepping Peter , Rishniw Mark , Freudenmann Roland W.
Published: December 2014

Background

Nothing is known about the prevalence of delusional infestation in
veterinary practice and the consequences for psychiatrists.

Aims

We attempted to examine the frequency of delusional infestation among pet
owners presenting their animals to veterinary clinics.

Method

We conducted a survey among 32 663 veterinary clinicians who were members
of the Veterinary Information Network.

Results

The respondents had seen 724 suspected cases of delusional infestation by
proxy in a pet. The clients were mainly White, female and 30–60 years
old. They presented mainly dogs and cats, and the alleged infestation was
mainly with arthropods or worms. Also, 252 clients claimed to be affected
themselves; we termed this ‘double delusional infestation’.

Conclusions

Delusional infestation is seen frequently in veterinary practice.
Psychiatrists need to be aware that patients may have pets they believe
are infested.
Glucocorticoids Regulate the Metabolic Hormone FGF21 in a Feed-Forward Loop
Authors: Patel Rucha , Bookout Angie L. , Magomedova Lilia , Owen Bryn M. , Consiglio Giulia P. , Shimizu Makoto , Zhang Yuan , Mangelsdorf David J. , Kliewer Steven A. , Cummins Carolyn L.
Published: December 2014

Hormones such as fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and glucocorticoids (GCs) play crucial roles in coordinating the adaptive starvation response. Here we examine the interplay between these hormones. It was previously shown that FGF21 induces corticosterone levels in mice by acting on the brain. We now show that this induces the expression of genes required for GC synthesis in the adrenal gland. FGF21 also increases corticosterone secretion from the adrenal in response to ACTH. We further show that the relationship between FGF21 and GCs is bidirectional. GCs induce Fgf21 expression in the liver by acting on the GC receptor (GR). The GR binds in a ligand-dependent manner to a noncanonical GR response element located approximately 4.4 kb upstream of the Fgf21 transcription start site. The GR cooperates with the nuclear fatty acid receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α, to stimulate Fgf21 transcription. GR and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α ligands have additive effects on Fgf21 expression both in vivo and in primary cultures of mouse hepatocytes. We conclude that FGF21 and GCs regulate each other's production in a feed-forward loop and suggest that this provides a mechanism for bypassing negative feedback on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis to allow sustained gluconeogenesis during starvation.
The carboxy-terminus of p63 links cell cycle control and the proliferative potential of epidermal progenitor cells
Authors: Suzuki Daisuke , Sahu Raju , Leu N. Adrian , Senoo Makoto
Published: December 2014

The transcription factor p63 (Trp63) plays a key role in homeostasis and regeneration of the skin. The p63 gene is transcribed from dual promoters, generating TAp63 isoforms with growth suppressive functions and dominant-negative ΔNp63 isoforms with opposing properties. p63 also encodes multiple carboxy (C)-terminal variants. Although mutations of C-terminal variants have been linked to the pathogenesis of p63-associated ectodermal disorders, the physiological role of the p63 C-terminus is poorly understood. We report here that deletion of the p63 C-terminus in mice leads to ectodermal malformation and hypoplasia, accompanied by a reduced proliferative capacity of epidermal progenitor cells. Notably, unlike the p63-null condition, we find that p63 C-terminus deficiency promotes expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21Waf1/Cip1 (Cdkn1a), a factor associated with reduced proliferative capacity of both hematopoietic and neuronal stem cells. These data suggest that the p63 C-terminus plays a key role in the cell cycle progression required to maintain the proliferative potential of stem cells of many different lineages. Mechanistically, we show that loss of Cα, the predominant C-terminal p63 variant in epithelia, promotes the transcriptional activity of TAp63 and also impairs the dominant-negative activity of ΔNp63, thereby controlling p21Waf1/Cip1 expression. We propose that the p63 C-terminus links cell cycle control and the proliferative potential of epidermal progenitor cells via mechanisms that equilibrate TAp63 and ΔNp63 isoform function.
A Green and Biocompatible Magnetically Powered Nickel–Flagella Nanomotor
Authors: Shitanda Isao , Terashima Masaki , Sattayasamitsathit Sirilak , Hoshi Yoshinao , Itagaki Masayuki
Published: December 2014

A fuel-free, magnetically driven nickel–algal flagella nanomotor was developed. The nanomotor was readily prepared using a streptavidin-coated Au/Ni/Au nanowire and biotinylated-isolated flagella obtained from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The nanomotor exhibited defined locomotion parallel to the magnetic field axis, with a speed of 14 µm s−1. The nanomotor was found to capture a magnetic particle smoothly and to transport the particle efficiently.
First Total Synthesis of (+)-Podophyllic Aldehydes
Authors: Ito Junki , Sakuma Daichi , Nishii Yoshinori
Published: December 2014

The first total synthesis of three (+)-podophyllic aldehydes was achieved in a highly enantiocontrolled manner. Key steps include the organocatalyzed highly enantioselective cyclopropanation and Lewis acid-mediated chiral transfer ring expansion with excellent level of stereoinduction. This method can alternatively provide (+)- and (−)-podophyllic aldehydes by switching the organocatalyst in the asymmetric cyclopropanation.
Behavioral Contract Theory
Authors: Kőszegi Botond
Published: December 2014

This review provides a critical survey of psychology-and-economics (“behavioral-economics”) research in contract theory. First, I introduce the theories of individual decision making most frequently used in behavioral contract theory, and formally illustrate some of their implications in contracting settings. Second, I provide a more comprehensive (but informal) survey of the psychology-and-economics work on classical contract-theoretic topics: moral hazard, screening, mechanism design, and incomplete contracts. I also summarize research on a new topic spawned by psychology and economics, exploitative contracting, that studies contracts designed primarily to take advantage of agent mistakes. (JEL A12, D03, D82, D86)
Field Measurements of Sound Insulation in Large, Open Rooms
Authors: Zambon G. , Angelini F. , Belingheri A. , Benocci R.
Published: December 2014

The international standards governing the measurement of sound insulation in buildings (ISO 140) do not explicitly cover the methodology of taking measurements in large open rooms. A building with open plan floors, each of about 1300 m2, is considered here. The ISO 140-14 standard, through an analysis of sound level distribution, allowed smaller partitions to be identified and used as reference volumes. Different index calculation methods allowed critical issues to be highlighted. The impact sound index was strongly affected by geometry (i.e., volume); therefore, its calculation using different virtual volumes gave differing results. Furthermore, the index calculated using the logarithmic average of the indices for each virtual volume and an extended analysis of measurements over the entire floor provided different results. The airborne sound insulation index was demonstrated to be independent of the choice of virtual volumes; it could be consistently calculated using either the logarithmic average or the extended analysis.
Binding of a fluorescence reporter and a ligand to an odorant-binding protein of the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti
Authors: Leal Gabriel M. , Leal Walter S.
Published: December 2014

Odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), also named pheromone-binding proteins when the odorant is a pheromone, are essential for insect olfaction. They solubilize odorants that reach the port of entry of the olfactory system, the pore tubules in antennae and other olfactory appendages. Then, OBPs transport these hydrophobic compounds through an aqueous sensillar lymph to receptors embedded on dendritic membranes of olfactory receptor neurons. Structures of OBPs from mosquito species have shed new light on the mechanism of transport, although there is considerable debate on how they deliver odorant to receptors. An OBP from the southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, binds the hydrophobic moiety of a mosquito oviposition pheromone (MOP) on the edge of its binding cavity. Likewise, it has been demonstrated that the orthologous protein from the malaria mosquito binds the insect repellent DEET on a similar edge of its binding pocket. A high school research project was aimed at testing whether the orthologous protein from the yellow fever mosquito, AaegOBP1, binds DEET and other insect repellents, and MOP was used as a positive control. Binding assays using the fluorescence reporter N-phenyl-1-naphtylamine (NPN) were inconclusive. However, titration of NPN fluorescence emission in AaegOBP1 solution with MOP led to unexpected and intriguing results. Quenching was observed in the initial phase of titration, but addition of higher doses of MOP led to a stepwise increase in fluorescence emission coupled with a blue shift, which can be explained at least in part by formation of MOP micelles to house stray NPN molecules.
Semi-symmetric metric connections on pseudosymmetric Lorentzian α-Sasakian manifolds
Authors: Bhattacharyya A. , Patra C.
Published: December 2014

We consider semi-symmetric metric connections on pseudosymmetric Lorentzian α-Sasakian manifolds. We study some properties of Weyl pseudosymmetric and Ricci pseudosymmetric Lorentzian α-Sasakian manifolds. We also give an example of a pseudosymmetric Lorentzian α-Sasakian manifold with a semi-symmetric metric connection.
The n-exponential convexity for majorization inequality for functions of two variables and related results
Authors: Adil Khan M. , Khalid Sadia , Pečarić J.
Published: December 2014

We apply the refined method of producing n-exponential convex functions of J. Pečarić and J. Perić to extend some known results on majorization type and related inequalities.
The emergence of an Udmurt-Russian mixed code: evidence from discourse markers
Authors: Kaysina Inna
Published: December 2014

This paper deals with the emergence of a mixed language variety spoken by Udmurt-Russian bilinguals in the Russian republic of Udmurtia. Called Suro-Požo ‘mixed, mixture’ by its speakers, this language code is characterised by variation in the use of Udmurt, Russian, double and hybrid discourse markers, as data analysis has revealed, which has specifically focused on subordinators and question tags. According to the frequency distribution of the native and borrowed discourse-regulating items in the analysed corpus, several classes of Suro-Požo discourse markers are represented overwhelmingly by Russian forms, indicating the starting point of a diachronic process of fusion (Matras 1998, 2000) of the two systems of discourse marking on the way from code-mixing to a mixed code (Auer 1998a, 1998b).Kokkuvõte. Inna Kaysina: Udmurdi-vene segakoodi esiletulek diskursusemarkerite alusel. Artikkel käsitleb segatud keelevarianti, mida kõnelevad Venemaa Udmurdi vabariigi udmurdi-vene kakskeelsed. Andmete analüüs näitab, et seda keelekoodi, mida kõnelejad nimetavad Suro-Požo ‘segatud, segu’, iseloomustab udmurdi, vene, kahekordsete ja hübriidsete diskursusemarkerite kasutuse varieerumine, mis tuleb eriti esile alistavate sidesõnade ja küsijätkude puhul. Diskursust reguleerivate omakeelsete ja laenatud elementide sagedusvahekorra põhjal esindavad mitmeid Suro-Požo diskursusemarkereid ülekaalukalt vene vormid, osutades kahe diskursuse markeerimise süsteemi diakroonilise fusiooniprotsessi (Matras 1998, 2000) algust teel koodisegust segakoodini (Auer 1998a, 1998b).Märksõnad: diskursusemarkerid, alistavad sidesõnad, küsijätkud, koodisegu, segakood, udmurdi keel, vene keel, Suro-Požo
Different loan sources as a reason for variability of some Estonian dialect words
Authors: Metsmägi Iris , Sedrik Meeli , Oja Vilja
Published: December 2014

Among other reasons, the phonetic variability of loanwords in Estonian dialects may reflect their origination from different but etymologically connected sources of borrowing. In an etymological dictionary, it is essential to find the words originating from different loan sources. In the present article, some dialect words and their variants are analysed from this aspect. Sometimes the different loan sources have concrete criteria, e.g. variants with different stem vowels in the words kann ‘jug’, nunn ‘nun’, and kirn ‘churn’, while some cases are not as clear, e.g. kartul and tuhl(is) ‘potato’, kapsas and kaapsas ‘cabbage’, and reetkamm and reigam(m) ‘reed’. If certain phonetic criteria are lacking, the areal distribution of variants may give valuable information about the possible loan sources. The analysis of a group of etymologically connected loanwords for ‘shuttle’, together with their further developments in Estonian dialects, illustrates the complexity of lexical relations in Estonian dialects.Kokkuvõte. Iris Metsmägi, Meeli Sedrik, Vilja Oja: Erinevad laenuallikad eesti murdesõnade variatiivsuse põhjusena. Üks laensõnade häälikulise varieeruvuse põhjusi eesti murretes on pärinemine erinevatest, kuid omavahel etümoloogiliselt seotud laenuallikatest. Etümoloogilistes sõnaraamatutes on eri laenuallikaist pärit sõnade eristamine põhimõttelise tähtsusega. Artiklis analüüsitakse niisugusest aspektist mõningaid (murde)sõnu ja nende variante. Eri laenuallikate tuvastamiseks on sageli kasutatud konkreetseid kriteeriume, nt sõnade kann, nunn ja kirn murdevariantide etümologiseerimisel on lähtutud tüvevokaalist. Paljudel juhtudel pole selgeid eristustunnuseid, nt sõnavariandid kartul ja tuhl(is), kapsas ja kaapsas, reetkamm ja reigam(m). Kindlate häälikuliste kriteeriumide puudumisel võib variantide murdelevik anda väärtuslikku teavet võimalike laenuallikate kohta. Rühma murretes esinevate süstikut märkivate etümoloogiliselt seotud laensõnade ja nende kohalike edasiarenduste analüüs illustreerib sõnavarasuhete komplitseeritust eesti murretes.Märksõnad: eesti murded, tüve varieerumine, alamsaksa laen