bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Glycemic Control in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes (SUNNY Trial): A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Krul-Poel Yvonne H.M. , Westra Sanne , ten Boekel Edwin , ter Wee Marieke M. , van Schoor Natasja M. , van Wijland Hans , Stam Frank , Lips Paul T.A.M. , Simsek Suat
Published: May 2015

OBJECTIVE

Low vitamin D status has been associated with impaired glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in 275 adult patients with type 2 diabetes without insulin treatment. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either vitamin D3 (50,000 IU/month) or placebo for 6 months. To assess the primary outcome of the study, change in HbA1c, we performed a linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

Mean baseline serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] increased from 60.6 ± 23.3 to 101.4 ± 27.6 nmol/L and 59.1 ± 23.2 to 59.8 ± 23.2 nmol/L in the vitamin D and placebo group, respectively. Mean baseline HbA1c was 6.8 ± 0.5% (51 ± 6 mmol/mol) in both groups. After 6 months, no effect was seen on HbA1c (mean difference: β = 0.4 [95% CI −0.6 to 1.5]; P = 0.42) and other indicators of glycemic control (HOMA of insulin resistance, fasting insulin, and glucose) in the entire study population. Subgroup analysis in patients with a serum 25(OH)D <50 nmol/L or an HbA1c level >7% (53 mmol/mol) did not differ the results.

CONCLUSIONS

In a well-controlled group of patients with type 2 diabetes, intermittent high-dose vitamin D supplementation did not improve glycemic control.
Going Mobile With Diabetes Support: A Randomized Study of a Text Message–Based Personalized Behavioral Intervention for Type 2 Diabetes Self-Care
Authors: Capozza Korey , Woolsey Sarah , Georgsson Mattias , Black Jeff , Bello Nelly , Lence Clare , Oostema Steve , North Christie
Published: May 2015

Objective. Patients with type 2 diabetes often fail to achieve self-management goals. This study tested the impact on glycemic control of a two-way text messaging program that provided behavioral coaching, education, and testing reminders to enrolled individuals with type 2 diabetes in the context of a clinic-based quality improvement initiative. The secondary aim examined patient interaction and satisfaction with the program.

Methods. Ninety-three adult patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (A1C >8%) were recruited from 18 primary care clinics in three counties for a 6-month study. Patients were randomized by a computer to one of two arms. Patients in both groups continued with their usual care; patients assigned to the intervention arm also received from one to seven diabetes-related text messages per day depending on the choices they made at enrollment. At 90 and 180 days, A1C data were obtained from the electronic health record and analyzed to determine changes from baseline for both groups. An exit survey was used to assess satisfaction. Enrollment behavior and interaction data were pulled from a Web-based administrative portal maintained by the technology vendor.

Results. Patients used the program in a variety of ways. Twenty-nine percent of program users demonstrated frequent engagement (texting responses at least three times per week) for a period of ≥90 days. Survey results indicate very high satisfaction with the program. Both groups’ average A1C decreased from baseline, possibly reflecting a broader quality improvement effort underway in participating clinics. At 90 and 180 days, there was no statistically significant difference between the intervention and control groups in terms of change in A1C (P >0.05).

Conclusions. This study demonstrated a practical approach to implementing and monitoring a mobile health intervention for self-management support across a wide range of independent clinic practices.
Using Photography as a Method to Explore Adolescent Challenges and Resilience in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Walker Ashby F. , Johnson Cathryn , Schatz Desmond A. , Silverstein Janet H. , Lyles Shannon , Rohrs Henry J.
Published: May 2015

Patient-centered approaches to disease management are consistently recognized as valuable tools for improving health outcomes, yet studies are rarely designed to elicit adolescent perspectives. This study sought to better understand the perspectives of youths with type 1 diabetes according to key demographic variables. We conducted an exploratory study through which 40 youths were provided with disposable cameras and prompted to take five photographs each that captured what diabetes meant to them and to provide narratives to accompany their photo choices. Demographic variables examined included sex, age, disease duration, socioeconomic status (SES), race, and glycemic control (A1C). Content analysis was used for photos and open-ended responses to assign photo index scores, which were then analyzed by demographic variables using Mann-Whitney U tests for statistical significance. Analysis of photos/narratives (n = 202) revealed five main types of representations depicted by at least 50% of the young people. “Challenge” photos included diabetes supplies as tethering, food as a source of frustration, and the body as a territory for disease encroachment. “Resilience” photos included coping mechanisms and symbols of resistance. Overall, these representations were consistent across demographic categories with two exceptions. Males took more food depictions than females (P <0.005) and had fewer coping depictions (P <0.05). Youths from more affluent households were more likely to take photos of resistance (P <0.05). The use of photo index scores expands previous studies using photography by comparing demographic variation within a sample. Our findings provide insight into coping strategies and indicate that SES may provide an advantage for affluent youths in meeting diabetes-specific challenges.
Sea Surface Radiocarbon Reservoir Age Changes in the Aegean Sea from about 11,200 BP to Present
Authors: Facorellis Yorgos , Vardala-Theodorou Evi
Published: May 2015

Archaeological excavations in two coastal sites of Greece, Ftelia on Mykonos and Cyclops Cave on Youra, have provided suitable material (charcoal/marine mollusk shell paired samples deposited simultaneously in undisturbed anthropogenic layers) to estimate regional changes of the sea surface radiocarbon reservoir effect (ΔR) in the Aegean Sea. Moreover, pre-bomb 14C ages of marine mollusk shells of known collection date, from Piraeus and Nafplion in Greece and Smyrna in Turkey, also contributed to the marine reservoir calculation during recent years. In this article, these already published results, 10 in total, are considered and calibrated again using the latest issues of the calibration curves IntCal13 and Marine13. The same calibration data were applied to 11 more paired samples from the archaeological sites of Palamari on Skyros and Franchthi Cave in the Argolic Gulf, published here for the first time, in order to investigate the fluctuation of the reservoir ages R(t) and ΔR values in the Aegean Sea from ∼11,200 BP (∼13,000 cal BP) to present. Our data show that R(t) and ΔR values are not constant through time and may vary from 1220 ± 148 to −3 ± 53 yr and −451 ± 68 to 858 ± 154 14C yr, respectively. An attempt was also made to correlate these fluctuations with eastern Mediterranean paleo-environmental proxies and other relevant paleoceanographic data found in the literature.
Prospective Associations of Depressive Rumination and Social Problem Solving with Depression: A 6-Month Longitudinal Study
Authors: Hasegawa Akira , Hattori Yosuke , Nishimura Haruki , Tanno Yoshihiko
Published: May 2015

The main purpose of this study was to examine whether depressive rumination and social problem solving are prospectively associated with depressive symptoms. Nonclinical university students ( N = 161, 64 men, 97 women; M age = 19.7 yr., SD = 3.6, range = 18–61) recruited from three universities in Japan completed the Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (BDI-II), the Ruminative Responses Scale, Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Revised Short Version (SPSI–R:S), and the Means-Ends Problem-Solving Procedure at baseline, and the BDI-II again at 6 mo. later. A stepwise multiple regression analysis with the BDI-II and all subscales of the rumination and social problem solving measures as independent variables indicated that only the BDI-II scores and the Impulsivity/carelessness style subscale of the SPSI-R:S at Time 1 were significantly associated with BDI-II scores at Time 2 (β = 0.73, 0.12, respectively; independent variables accounted for 58.8% of the variance). These findings suggest that in Japan an impulsive and careless problem-solving style was prospectively associated with depressive symptomatology 6 mo. later, as contrasted with previous findings of a cycle of rumination and avoidance problem-solving style.
Movement, Function, Pain, and Postoperative Edema in Axillary Web Syndrome
Authors: Koehler Linda A. , Blaes Anne H. , Haddad Tuffia C. , Hunter David W. , Hirsch Alan T. , Ludewig Paula M.
Published: May 2015

Background

Axillary web syndrome (AWS) is a condition that may develop following breast cancer surgery and that presents as a palpable axillary cord of tissue.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to determine the clinical characteristics of AWS related to movement, function, pain, and postoperative edema and (2) to define the incidence of and risk factors for AWS within the first 3 months following breast cancer surgery.

Design

This was a prospective cohort study with a repeated-measures design.

Methods

Women who underwent breast cancer surgery with sentinel node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection (N=36) were assessed for AWS, shoulder range of motion, function, pain, and postoperative edema (using girth measurements, bioimpedance, and tissue dielectric constant) at 2, 4, and 12 weeks. Demographic characteristics were used for risk analysis.

Results

Seventeen women (47.2%) developed AWS, and AWS persisted in 10 participants (27.8%) at 12 weeks. Abduction range of motion was significantly lower in the AWS group compared with the non-AWS group at 2 and 4 weeks. There were no differences between groups in measurements of function, pain, or edema at any time point. Trunk edema measured by dielectric constant was present in both groups, with an incidence of 55%. Multivariate analysis determined lower body mass index as being significantly associated with AWS (odds ratio=0.86; 95% confidence interval=0.74, 1.00).

Limitations

Limitations included a short follow-up time and a small sample size.

Conclusion

Axillary web syndrome is prevalent following breast/axilla surgery for early-stage breast cancer and may persist beyond 12 weeks. The early consequences include movement restriction, but the long-term effects of persistent AWS cords are yet unknown. Low body mass index is considered a risk factor for AWS.
The Presentation of Germany in Israeli History Textbooks between 1948 and 2014
Authors: Kizel Arie
Published: May 2015

This article reviews an extensive study of Israeli secondary school general history curricula and textbooks since the establishment of the state in 1948 until the present day. By analyzing the way in which Germany is presented in various contexts, the findings of the study indicate that, while the textbooks reflect a shift from an early censorious attitude to a factual approach, the curriculum continues to present national Jewish Zionism as the metanarrative. In this context, Germany is framed as a victimizer.
History Teaching in Albania Following Educational Reform in 2008
Authors: Vuka Denis
Published: May 2015

This article explores history teaching in Albania, with particular emphasis on educational and methodological aspects of new history textbooks published after the liberalization of the school textbook market in 2008. National history textbooks serve as a basis for the assessment of changing educational principles and methodologies in history teaching in terms of five qualitative factors: educational aims, teaching techniques and methodologies, historical narratives, visual materials, and sources. The article thus assesses the degree to which textbooks fulfill their educational function and help to put learning theories into practice. The author also places the revision and reevaluation of national history textbooks in Albania in context by comparing them to the progress of Kosovo's recently established educational system.
A probabilistic map of the human ventral sensorimotor cortex using electrical stimulation
Authors: Breshears Jonathan D. , Molinaro Annette M. , Chang Edward F.
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

The human ventral sensorimotor cortex (vSMC) is involved in facial expression, mastication, and swallowing, as well as the dynamic and highly coordinated movements of human speech production. However, vSMC organization remains poorly understood, and previously published population-driven maps of its somatotopy do not accurately reflect the variability across individuals in a quantitative, probabilistic fashion. The goal of this study was to describe the responses to electrical stimulation of the vSMC, generate probabilistic maps of function in the vSMC, and quantify the variability across individuals.

METHODS

Photographic, video, and stereotactic MRI data of intraoperative electrical stimulation of the vSMC were collected for 33 patients undergoing awake craniotomy. Stimulation sites were converted to a 2D coordinate system based on anatomical landmarks. Motor, sensory, and speech stimulation responses were reviewed and classified. Probabilistic maps of stimulation responses were generated, and spatial variance was quantified.

RESULTS

In 33 patients, the authors identified 194 motor, 212 sensory, 61 speech-arrest, and 27 mixed responses. Responses were complex, stereotyped, and mostly nonphysiological movements, involving hand, orofacial, and laryngeal musculature. Within individuals, the presence of oral movement representations varied; however, the dorsal-ventral order was always preserved. The most robust motor responses were jaw (probability 0.85), tongue (0.64), lips (0.58), and throat (0.52). Vocalizations were seen in 6 patients (0.18), more dorsally near lip and dorsal throat areas. Sensory responses were spatially dispersed; however, patients' subjective reports were highly precise in localization within the mouth. The most robust responses included tongue (0.82) and lips (0.42). The probability of speech arrest was 0.85, highest 15–20 mm anterior to the central sulcus and just dorsal to the sylvian fissure, in the anterior precentral gyrus or pars opercularis.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors report probabilistic maps of function in the human vSMC based on intraoperative cortical electrical stimulation. These results define the expected range of mapping outcomes in the vSMC of a single individual and shed light on the functional organization of the vSMC supporting speech motor control and nonspeech functions.
Sacroiliac joint motion in patients with degenerative lumbar spine disorders
Authors: Nagamoto Yukitaka , Iwasaki Motoki , Sakaura Hironobu , Sugiura Tsuyoshi , Fujimori Takahito , Matsuo Yohei , Kashii Masafumi , Murase Tsuyoshi , Yoshikawa Hideki , Sugamoto Kazuomi
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

Usually additional anchors into the ilium are necessary in long fusion to the sacrum for degenerative lumbar spine disorders (DLSDs), especially for adult spine deformity. Although the use of anchors is becoming quite common, surgeons must always keep in mind that the sacroiliac (SI) joint is mobile and they should be aware of the kinematic properties of the SI joint in patients with DLSDs, including adult spinal deformity. No previous study has clarified in vivo kinematic changes in the SI joint with respect to patient age, sex, or parturition status or the presence of DLSDs. The authors conducted a study to clarify the mobility and kinematic characteristics of the SI joint in patients with DLSDs in comparison with healthy volunteers by using in vivo 3D motion analysis with voxel-based registration, a highly accurate, noninvasive method.

METHODS

Thirteen healthy volunteers (the control group) and 20 patients with DLSDs (the DLSD group) underwent low-dose 3D CT of the lumbar spine and pelvis in 3 positions (neutral, maximal trunk flexion, and maximal trunk extension). SI joint motion was calculated by computer processing of the CT images (voxel-based registration). 3D motion of the SI joint was expressed as both 6 df by Euler angles and translations on the coordinate system and a helical axis of rotation. The correlation between joint motion and the cross-sectional area of the trunk muscles was also investigated.

RESULTS

SI joint motion during trunk flexion-extension was minute in healthy volunteers. The mean rotation angles during trunk flexion were 0.07° around the x axis, −0.02° around the y axis, and 0.16° around the z axis. The mean rotation angles during trunk extension were 0.38° around the x axis, −0.08° around the y axis, and 0.08° around the z axis. During trunk flexion-extension, the largest amount of motion occurred around the x axis. In patients with DLSDs, the mean rotation angles during trunk flexion were 0.57° around the x axis, 0.01° around the y axis, and 0.19° around the z axis. The mean rotation angles during trunk extension were 0.68° around the x axis, −0.11° around the y axis, and 0.05° around the z axis. Joint motion in patients with DLSDs was significantly greater, with greater individual difference, than in healthy volunteers. Among patients with DLSDs, women had significantly more motion than men did during trunk extension. SI joint motion was significantly negatively correlated with the cross-sectional area of the trunk muscles during both flexion and extension of the trunk.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors elucidated the mobility and kinematic characteristics of the SI joint in patients with DLSDs compared with healthy volunteers for the first time. This information is useful for spine surgeons because of the recent increase in spinopelvic fusion for the treatment of DLSDs.
Transosseous cerebrospinal fluid fistula 14 years after Chiari decompression: presentation and management
Authors: Gandhoke Gurpreet S. , Hauptman Jason S. , Salvetti David J. , Weiner Gregory M. , Panigrahy Ashok , Yilmaz Sabri , Pollack Ian F.
Published: May 2015

The authors report a unique case of a transosseous CSF fistula that was detected more than 10 years after treatment of a symptomatic Chiari I malformation. This lesion initially presented as an intraosseous cystic lesion involving the C-2 vertebra, which was found to communicate freely with the subarachnoid space through a tiny dural opening. Surgical management involved hemilaminectomy and repair of the dural defect followed by reinforcement of the bony defect with demineralized bone matrix. Following closure of the fistula, symptoms of elevated intracranial pressure developed, necessitating a ventriculoperitoneal shunt for CSF diversion.
A device for measuring wave-induced motion of ice floes in the Antarctic marginal ice zone
Authors: Kohout Alison L. , Penrose Bill , Penrose Scott , Williams Michael J.M.
Published: May 2015

A series of wave instruments was deployed on first-year Antarctic sea ice during SIPEX (Sea Ice Physics and Ecosystem Experiment) II. Here we describe the hardware and software design of these instruments and give an overview of the returned dataset. Each instrument consisted of a high-resolution accelerometer coupled with a tri-axis inertial measurement unit, which was located using GPS. The significant wave heights measured near the ice edge were predominately between 1 and 2 m. During the 6 weeks of data capture, several large wave events were measured. We report here a selection of events, highlighting the complexities associated with measuring wave decay at individual frequencies.
Avifauna of Pashukhali and Gajdhar village in Netrokona district, Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Shawkat Imam , Naher Habibon , Islam Muhammad Saiful
Published: May 2015

Avifauna of village Pashukhali and Gajdhar in the district of Netrokona, Bangladesh was carried out during July 2003-June 2004. A total of 101 species of birds belonging to 12 orders, 35 families and 82 genera were recorded. Out of 101 species, 61 (60.4%) were non-passerine and 40 (39.6%) were passerine. Among them, 80 (79.2%) were resident and 21 (20.8%) were migratory birds. Of the non-passerine birds, 15 (24.6%) were migratory and 46 were (75.4%) resident. While in passerine birds, 6 (15%) were migratory and 34 (85%) were resident. Of the total species, 18 (17.8%) were locally found to be very common, 41 (40.6%) were common, 29 (28.7%) fairly common and 13 (12.9%) rare or few. Out of 101 species, highest numbers (58.4%) of species were widely distributed. Maximum numbers of birds (78.2%) were terrestrial.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(2): 141-152, 2014
Effect of coffee on the growth and development of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae
Authors: Mostakim Md , Khan Ataur Rahman
Published: May 2015

Effect of various concentrations of coffee, Coffea arabica, viz. 12.50%, 25% and 50% on the growth and development of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) was determined. Coffee lengthened the larval and pupal periods significantly. There was also a significant reduction in the pupal recovery and adult emergence of the beetle following treatment. The food with 50% coffee had the most detrimental effects on the beetle. Coffee extract could be used as useful botanical pesticide for controlling red flour beetle.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(2): 211-216, 2014
Nutrient contents of some popular freshwater and marine fish species of Bangladesh
Authors: Zaman Maria , Naser M Niamul , Abdullah Abu Tareq Mohammad , Khan Nasima
Published: May 2015

An investigation was carried out on the proximate and mineral contents of widely consumed freshwater small indigenous species (SIS), culture and marine fish species of Bangladesh. Proximate composition (crude protein, fat, ash, moisture, carbohydrate and energy) and selected mineral (Ca, K, Na, Mg, Fe, Zn and Mn) contents were determined eighteen locally available fish species of Bangladesh. Considering proximate composition high protein fishes are Thai Sarpunti 17.5 ± 0.15%, Rui 16.82% ± 0.02; high fat fishes are Thai Pangus 10.03±0.1%, Thai Sarpunti 9.38±0.37%; high Ash contents in Poa 4.78 ± 0.92 %, Ganges Chapila 3.96 ± 0.51%, Thai Sarpunti 3.31 ± 0.14%; high energy found in Thai Sarpunti 157.02 ± 2.61 Kcal/g and Thai Pangus 151.59 ± 2.71 Kcal/g. Considering mineral compositions, Ca rich fishes are Punti 1984.32 ± 1.1 mg, Mola 1267 ± 2.2 mg, Dhela 1717.8 ± 3.1 mg, Chapila 1100.6 ± 1.21 mg, Thai Sarpunti 1373.9 ± 5.32 mg. K rich fishes are Taki 501.47 ± 2.9 mg, Coral 415.24 ± 2.8 mg and Na rich fishes are Thai Sarpunti 780.01 ± 3.8, Ganges Chapila 415.32 ± 2.34 mg, Loitta 497.38 ± 4.21 mg. Trace mineral, Mg is high in Coral 187.98 ± 0.61 mg, Punti 148.16 ± 0.62 mg, Datina 144.05 ± 0.35 mg, Kachki 143.49 ± 0.3 mg fishes, whereas Fe are high in Chapila 15.95 ± 0.03mg, Punti 10.31 ± 0.2, Poa 7.01±0.66 and Zn in Thai Sarpunti 40.20 ± 0.34 mg, Poa 29.32 ± 0.32 mg fishes. Considering Mn, Chapila 6.34 ± 0.04 mg is the highest. This study indicate that small fishes with bones are important source of essential minerals especially Ca. Culture species found to be rich in source of protein, energy and lipids. Marine species exhibit good combination of protein and minerals. This study also encourage to take a culture species like Thai Sarpunti (Barbonymus gonionotus) for its high nutritional meat values and also to consume marine fishes and small fishes with bones for better nourishment. Promotion of the production and consumption of small fishes therefore be encouraged for better nutritional achievement.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(2): 251-259, 2014
Proximate composition and microbial quality of three imported aquarium fish feeds in Bangladesh
Authors: Kabir Md Alamgir , Rahman Mohammad Shamsur , Hossain Anwar , Mandal Shankar Chandra
Published: May 2015

Proximate composition and microbial quality of three aquarium fish feeds commonly found in Bangladesh were collected from fish feed market of Dhaka city. Significantly higher moisture content (2.12 ± 0.06%) was found in Super NovaTM fish feed while similar moisture content was detected in other two feeds (p<0.05). On the other hand ash content detected in OptimumTM and Osaka 2000TM aquarium fish feed was significantly higher than that of Super NovaTM (10.67±0.19%) (p<0.05).Protein content found in OptimumTM (42.21 ± 0.12%) was significantly higher than that of Osaka 2000TM and Super NovaTM (p<0.05). However, similar lipid content was found in OptimumTM (1.06 ± 0.03%) and Super NovaTM (1.13 ± 0.01%) aquarium fish feed which were significantly higher than that of Osaka 2000TM (p<0.05). The Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were found in all feeds. However Vibrio sp was not found in any feed. Total bacterial count was significantly higher in Osaka 2000TM feed than that of others (P<0.05). However S. aureus was significantly higher in Super NovaTM than that of others while E. coli count was significantly higher in OptimumTM fish feed than that of others (p<0.05). Nutritional quality of the aquarium fish feed was qualified to some extent to meet the minimum requirement of the aquarium fish while microbial quality indicates some degrees of deterioration which may cause diseases of the aquarium fishes. Thus proper storage condition, hygienic handling and processing should be maintained to prevent the microbial contamination in aquarium fish feeds. There should be a monitoring cell from the government to assess the quality of this expensive imported feeds for aquarist.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(2): 283-294, 2014
Sulfatide-Hsp70 Interaction Promotes Hsp70 Clustering and Stabilizes Binding to Unfolded Protein
Authors: Harada Yoichiro , Sato Chihiro , Kitajima Ken
Published: May 2015

The 70-kDa heat shock protein (Hsp70), one of the major stress-inducible molecular chaperones, is localized not only in the cytosol, but also in extracellular milieu in mammals. Hsp70 interacts with various cell surface glycolipids including sulfatide (3'-sulfogalactosphingolipid). However, the molecular mechanism, as well as the biological relevance, underlying the glycolipid-Hsp70 interaction is unknown. Here we report that sulfatide promotes Hsp70 oligomerization through the N-terminal ATPase domain, which stabilizes the binding of Hsp70 to unfolded protein in vitro. We find that the Hsp70 oligomer has apparent molecular masses ranging from 440 kDa to greater than 669 kDa. The C-terminal peptide-binding domain is dispensable for the sulfatide-induced oligomer formation. The oligomer formation is impaired in the presence of ATP, while the Hsp70 oligomer, once formed, is unable to bind to ATP. These results suggest that sulfatide locks Hsp70 in a high-affinity state to unfolded proteins by clustering the peptide-binding domain and blocking the binding to ATP that induces the dissociation of Hsp70 from protein substrates.
The Hypothermic Influence on CHOP and Ero1-α in an Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Model of Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Poone Gagandip , Hasseldam Henrik , Munkholm Nina , Rasmussen Rune , Grønberg Nina , Johansen Flemming
Published: May 2015

Hypoxia induced endoplasmic reticulum stress causes accumulation of unfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum and activates the unfolded protein response, resulting in apoptosis through CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) activation. In an in vitro and in vivo model of ischemic stroke, we investigated whether hypothermia regulates the unfolded protein response of CHOP and Endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductin-α (Ero1-α), because Ero1-α is suggested to be a downstream CHOP target. The gene expression of CHOP and Ero1-α was measured using Quantitative-PCR (Q-PCR) in rat hippocampi following global cerebral ischemia, and in hypoxic pheochromocytoma cells during normothermic (37 °C) and hypothermic (31 °C) conditions. As a result of ischemia, a significant increase in expression of CHOP and Ero1-α was observed after three, six and twelve hours of reperfusion following global ischemia. A stable increase in CHOP expression was observed throughout the time course (p < 0.01, p < 0.0001), whereas Ero1-α expression peaked at three to six hours (p < 0.0001). Induced hypothermia in hypoxia stressed PC12 cells resulted in a decreased expression of CHOP after three, six and twelve hours (p < 0.0001). On the contrary, the gene expression of Ero1-α increased as a result of hypothermia and peaked at twelve hours (p < 0.0001). Hypothermia attenuated the expression of CHOP, supporting that hypothermia suppress endoplasmic reticulum stress induced apoptosis in stroke. As hypothermia further induced up-regulation of Ero1-α, and since CHOP and Ero1-α showed differential regulation as a consequence of both disease (hypoxia) and treatment (hypothermia), we conclude that they are regulated independently.
Comparing Whole Building Energy Implications of Sidelighting Systems with Alternate Manual Blind Control Algorithms
Authors: Dyke Christopher , Van Den Wymelenberg Kevin , Djunaedy Ery , Steciak Judi
Published: May 2015

Currently, there is no manual blind control guideline used consistently throughout the energy modeling community. This paper identifies and compares five manual blind control algorithms with unique control patterns and reports blind occlusion, rate of change data, and annual building energy consumption. The blind control schemes detailed here represent five reasonable candidates for use in lighting and energy simulation based on difference driving factors. This study was performed on a medium-sized office building using EnergyPlus with the internal daylight harvesting engine. Results show that applying manual blind control algorithms affects the total annual consumption of the building by as much as 12.5% and 11.5% for interior and exterior blinds respectively, compared to the Always Retracted blinds algorithm. Peak demand was also compared showing blind algorithms affected zone load sizing by as much as 9.8%. The alternate algorithms were tested for their impact on American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Guideline 14 calibration metrics and all models were found to differ from the original calibrated baseline by more than the recommended ±15% for coefficient of variance of the mean square error (CVRMSE) and ±5% for normalized mean bias error (NMBE). The paper recommends that energy modelers use one or more manual blind control algorithms during design stages when making decisions about energy efficiency and other design alternatives.
Arrays of TiO2 Nanowires as Photoelectrochemical Sensors for Hydrazine Detection
Authors: Ongaro Michael , Signoretto Michela , Trevisan Valentina , Stortini Angela , Ugo Paolo
Published: May 2015

Electrodes based on arrays of TiO2 nanowires were prepared by template sol-gel synthesis with the goal of developing a hydrazine photoelectrochemical sensor. Experimental conditions were chosen so that the gelation reaction occurred inside the nanopores of track-etched polycarbonate membranes, with consequent filling with TiO2 nanowires. Different procedures for the removal of the template were examined, in order to obtain arrays of self-standing TiO2 nanowires. The nanowire arrays were bound to fluorine doped tin oxide substrates to produce handy photoelectrodes. The photocurrent recorded with the photoelectrodes in the presence of hydrazine showed significant dependence on the pollutant concentration. The development of a photoelectrochemical sensor for hydrazine detection in water samples, based on this principle, is presented.
Safety of Excipients in Pediatric Formulations—A Call for Toxicity Studies in Juvenile Animals?
Authors: Schmitt Georg
Published: May 2015

The development of drug products for pediatric use often requires age-appropriate formulations which can be more complex and may involve a broader range of excipients than adult dosage forms. Excipients established for adult use are not always appropriate for use in children because they can affect children differently than adults. Therefore, a comprehensive safety assessment of the excipients in a pediatric formulation is essential before use, referring to existing safety data from adult human and animals as well as safety data from pediatric use and juvenile toxicity studies, when available. The overall risk assessment needs to consider the safety risk from the excipients and the extent to which the risk from the disease as such will be ameliorated by the drug formulation. Non-clinical safety studies in juvenile animals are used to assess for specific toxicities or sensitivities of excipients and for establishing safe exposures in pediatric age groups. As for any active ingredient, non-clinical safety studies in juvenile animals should only be performed for excipients if important for clinical risk assessment and labelling. Pharmaceutical companies should be critical of excessive demands for juvenile animal testing, particularly of excipients when critically needed for significant therapeutic benefit.
Effects of High Hydrostatic Pressure on Water Absorption of Adzuki Beans
Authors: Ueno Shigeaki , Shigematsu Toru , Karo Mineko , Hayashi Mayumi , Fujii Tomoyuki
Published: May 2015

The effect of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treatment on dried soybean, adzuki bean, and kintoki kidney bean, which are low-moisture-content cellular biological materials, was investigated from the viewpoint of water absorption. The samples were vacuum-packed with distilled water and pressurized at 200 MPa and 25 °C for 10 min. After the HHP treatment, time courses of the moisture contents of the samples were measured, and the dimensionless moisture contents were estimated. Water absorption in the case of soybean could be fitted well by a simple water diffusion model. High pressures were found to have negligible effects on water absorption into the cotyledon of soybean and kintoki kidney bean. A non-linear least square method based on the Weibull equation was applied for the adzuki beans, and the effective water diffusion coefficient was found to increase significantly from 8.6 × 10−13 to 6.7 × 10−10 m2/s after HHP treatment. Approximately 30% of the testa of the adzuki bean was damaged upon HHP treatment, which was comparable to the surface area of the testa in the partially peeled adzuki bean sample. Thus, HHP was confirmed to promote mass transfer to the cotyledon of legumes with a tight testa.
An Inactive Geminin Mutant That Binds Cdt1
Authors: Suchyta Marissa , Miotto Benoit , McGarry Thomas
Published: May 2015

The initiation of DNA replication is tightly regulated in order to ensure that the genome duplicates only once per cell cycle. In vertebrate cells, the unstable regulatory protein Geminin prevents a second round of DNA replication by inhibiting the essential replication factor Cdt1. Cdt1 recruits mini-chromosome maintenance complex (MCM2-7), the replication helicase, into the pre-replication complex (pre-RC) at origins of DNA replication. The mechanism by which Geminin inhibits MCM2-7 loading by Cdt1 is incompletely understood. The conventional model is that Geminin sterically hinders a direct physical interaction between Cdt1 and MCM2-7. Here, we describe an inactive missense mutant of Geminin, GemininAWA, which binds to Cdt1 with normal affinity yet is completely inactive as a replication inhibitor even when added in vast excess. In fact, GemininAWA can compete with GemininWT for binding to Cdt1 and prevent it from inhibiting DNA replication. GemininAWA does not inhibit the loading of MCM2-7 onto DNA in vivo, and in the presence of GemininAWA, nuclear DNA is massively over-replicated within a single S phase. We conclude that Geminin does not inhibit MCM loading by simple steric interference with a Cdt1-MCM2-7 interaction but instead works by a non-steric mechanism, possibly by inhibiting the histone acetyltransferase HBO1.
Prenatal Exposure to Lipopolysaccharide Results in Myocardial Fibrosis in Rat Offspring
Authors: Chen Xin , Tang Yujie , Gao Meng , Qin Shugang , Zhou Jianzhi , Li Xiaohui
Published: May 2015

The epigenetic plasticity hypothesis indicates that exposure during pregnancy may cause adult-onset disorders, including hypertension, myocardial infarction and heart failure. Moreover, myocardial fibrosis coincides with hypertension, myocardial infarction and heart failure. This study was designed to investigate the effects of prenatal exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on myocardial fibrosis. The result showed that at six and 16 weeks of age, the LPS-treated offspring exhibited increased collagen synthesis, an elevated cardiac index (CI), higher mRNA levels of TIMP-2 and TGFβ and a reduced mRNA level of MMP2. The protein levels corresponded to the mRNA levels. The offspring that were prenatally treated with pyrrolidine dithiocarbamic acid (PDTC), an inhibitor of NF-κB, displayed improvements in the CI and in collagen synthesis. Moreover, PDTC ameliorated the expression of cytokines and proteins associated with myocardial fibrosis. The results showed that maternal inflammation can induce myocardial fibrosis in offspring during aging accompanied by an imbalance of TIMP-2/MMP2 and TGFβ expression.
The Real Culprit in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Abnormal Epigenetic Regulation
Authors: Wu Haijing , Zhao Ming , Chang Christopher , Lu Qianjin
Published: May 2015

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease involving multiple organs and the presence of anti-nuclear antibodies. The pathogenesis of SLE has been intensively studied but remains far from clear. B and T lymphocyte abnormalities, dysregulation of apoptosis, defects in the clearance of apoptotic materials, and various genetic and epigenetic factors are attributed to the development of SLE. The latest research findings point to the association between abnormal epigenetic regulation and SLE, which has attracted considerable interest worldwide. It is the purpose of this review to present and discuss the relationship between aberrant epigenetic regulation and SLE, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and microRNAs in patients with SLE, the possible mechanisms of immune dysfunction caused by epigenetic changes, and to better understand the roles of aberrant epigenetic regulation in the initiation and development of SLE and to provide an insight into the related therapeutic options in SLE.
Gilded Hope for Medicine
Authors: Naggar Mohamed , Shehadi Ihsan , Abdou Hanan , Mohamed Ahmed
Published: May 2015

Gold is emerging as a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of arthritis, cancer and AIDS. The therapeutic mechanism of arthritic gold drugs and their modification in the presence of stomach hydrochloric acid, in the joints, and in the presence of mild and strong oxidizing agents is a matter of debate. It is believed that gold affects the entire immune response and reduces its potency and limits its oxidizing nature. DNA apparently is not the main target of gold in cancer treatment. Rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, heart diseases and recently AIDS have all been targeted with gold nanoparticles therapy. The era of gold nanoparticles started with cancer imaging and treatment studies. Gold nanoparticles have emerged as smart drug vehicles.
How Land Concessions Affect Places Elsewhere: Telecoupling, Political Ecology, and Large-Scale Plantations in Southern Laos and Northeastern Cambodia
Authors: Baird Ian , Fox Jefferson
Published: May 2015

Over the last decade considerable research has been conducted on the development and the impacts of large-scale economic land concessions for plantations in Laos and Cambodia. These studies have variously illustrated that concessions frequently result in serious negative impacts on local people and the environment, often leading to dramatic transformations of landscapes and livelihoods. As important as this research has been, these studies have largely focused on the immediate impacts of the “enclosure” process associated with gaining access to land by investors. In this study we take a different approach, investigating the implications of large-scale land concessions in southern Laos and northeastern Cambodia with regard to places outside of actual concession areas, both within the countries where the concessions are located and beyond. These links have been referred to as “teleconnections” or “telecoupling”, and adopting a “telecoupling” approach allows us to focus on particular relations between land-use change in one location and land-use change elsewhere, either nearby or distant, as the result of large-scale plantation development, both during the early plantation development period, and later when plantations are productive. It also provides opportunities to engage with Land Change Science (LCS) through Political Ecology (PE).
A Cyber Physical Interface for Automation Systems—Methodology and Examples
Authors: Kao Hung-An , Jin Wenjing , Siegel David , Lee Jay
Published: May 2015

Cyber physical systems (CPS) in a manufacturing and automation context can be referred to different manufacturing process, including design, simulation, control, and verification. However, for data analytics, the concept of CPS is relatively new, and a standard methodology is lacking on how to incorporate this type of interface for automation applications. This study discusses a modeling methodology for a cyber physical interface and presents the five levels of information for a cyber physical system, that range from the data connection level to the system configuration level. In order to achieve this awareness and health state of the machine and system, a technical approach that uses adaptive health monitoring algorithms is presented. Lastly, an experimental study on a machine tool ball screw is highlighted, in which a predictive model and a cyber physical interface is developed for this application. The outcomes from this study demonstrate that machine health state awareness is feasible, and the core technologies can aim mechanical systems systematically develop its CPS. This can lead to additional product revenue for the manufacturers, and also a potential competitive edge in the market place.
Characterization of Melanogenesis Inhibitory Constituents of Morus alba Leaves and Optimization of Extraction Conditions Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Jeong Ji , Liu Qing , Kim Seon , Jo Yang , Mo Eun , Yang Hyo , Song Dae , Hwang Bang , Lee Mi
Published: May 2015

Melanin is a natural pigment that plays an important role in the protection of skin, however, hyperpigmentation cause by excessive levels of melatonin is associated with several problems. Therefore, melanogenesis inhibitory natural products have been developed by the cosmetic industry as skin medications. The leaves of Morus alba (Moraceae) have been reported to inhibit melanogenesis, therefore, characterization of the melanogenesis inhibitory constituents of M. alba leaves was attempted in this study. Twenty compounds including eight benzofurans, 10 flavonoids, one stilbenoid and one chalcone were isolated from M. alba leaves and these phenolic constituents were shown to significantly inhibit tyrosinase activity and melanin content in B6F10 melanoma cells. To maximize the melanogenesis inhibitory activity and active phenolic contents, optimized M. alba leave extraction conditions were predicted using response surface methodology as a methanol concentration of 85.2%; an extraction temperature of 53.2 °C and an extraction time of 2 h. The tyrosinase inhibition and total phenolic content under optimal conditions were found to be 74.8% inhibition and 24.8 μg GAE/mg extract, which were well-matched with the predicted values of 75.0% inhibition and 23.8 μg GAE/mg extract. These results shall provide useful information about melanogenesis inhibitory constituents and optimized extracts from M. alba leaves as cosmetic therapeutics to reduce skin hyperpigmentation.
Glutathione in Cellular Redox Homeostasis: Association with the Excitatory Amino Acid Carrier 1 (EAAC1)
Authors: Aoyama Koji , Nakaki Toshio
Published: May 2015

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are by-products of the cellular metabolism of oxygen consumption, produced mainly in the mitochondria. ROS are known to be highly reactive ions or free radicals containing oxygen that impair redox homeostasis and cellular functions, leading to cell death. Under physiological conditions, a variety of antioxidant systems scavenge ROS to maintain the intracellular redox homeostasis and normal cellular functions. This review focuses on the antioxidant system’s roles in maintaining redox homeostasis. Especially, glutathione (GSH) is the most important thiol-containing molecule, as it functions as a redox buffer, antioxidant, and enzyme cofactor against oxidative stress. In the brain, dysfunction of GSH synthesis leading to GSH depletion exacerbates oxidative stress, which is linked to a pathogenesis of aging-related neurodegenerative diseases. Excitatory amino acid carrier 1 (EAAC1) plays a pivotal role in neuronal GSH synthesis. The regulatory mechanism of EAAC1 is also discussed.
Predictors of Energy Compensation during Exercise Interventions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Riou Marie-Ève , Jomphe-Tremblay Simon , Lamothe Gilles , Stacey Dawn , Szczotka Agnieszka , Doucet Éric
Published: May 2015

Weight loss from exercise-induced energy deficits is usually less than expected. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate predictors of energy compensation, which is defined as body energy changes (fat mass and fat-free mass) over the total amount of exercise energy expenditure. A search was conducted in multiple databases without date limits. Of 4745 studies found, 61 were included in this systematic review with a total of 928 subjects. The overall mean energy compensation was 18% ± 93%. The analyses indicated that 48% of the variance of energy compensation is explained by the interaction between initial fat mass, age and duration of exercise interventions. Sex, frequency, intensity and dose of exercise energy expenditure were not significant predictors of energy compensation. The fitted model suggested that for a shorter study duration, lower energy compensation was observed in younger individuals with higher initial fat mass (FM). In contrast, higher energy compensation was noted for younger individuals with lower initial FM. From 25 weeks onward, energy compensation was no longer different for these predictors. For studies of longer duration (about 80 weeks), the energy compensation approached 84%. Lower energy compensation occurs with short-term exercise, and a much higher level of energy compensation accompanies long-term exercise interventions.
Multi-Format Wavelength Conversion Using Quantum Dash Mode-Locked Laser Pumps
Authors: M’Sallem Yousra , Park Chul , LaRochelle Sophie , Rusch Leslie
Published: May 2015

We investigate and compare the performance of wavelength conversion for two different non-return-to-zero (NRZ) modulation formats at 40 Gb/s: on off keying (OOK) and differential phase-shift keying (DPSK). To achieve wide wavelength coverage and integrability, we use a dual pump scheme exploiting four-wave mixing in semiconductor optical amplifiers. For phase stability, we use a quantum-dash mode-locked laser (QD-MLL) as a multi-wavelength source for the dual pumps, with tunability provided by the output filter. The significant sidelobes of the DPSK spectrum (relative to OOK) require the balancing of the pump proximity to the original signal (facilitating high conversion efficiency) with the signal degradation from the pump spectrum overlapping the converted DPSK signal. We achieve a conversion efficiency near –3.6 dB for OOK and –5.4 dB for DPSK across a 12 nm tuning range with low input powers (1 dBm). We measure bit error rate (BER) and obtain error free transmission (BER < 10−9) with a power penalty less than 2 dB for OOK and 3 dB for DPSK.