bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controls of Global Snow under a Changed Climate
Authors: Kapnick Sarah B. , Delworth Thomas L.
Published: February 2013

This study assesses the ability of a newly developed high-resolution coupled model from the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory to simulate the cold-season hydroclimate in the present climate and examines its response to climate change forcing. Output is assessed from a 280-yr control simulation that is based on 1990 atmospheric composition and an idealized 140-yr future simulation in which atmospheric carbon dioxide increases at 1% yr−1 until doubling in year 70 and then remains constant. When compared with a low-resolution model, the high-resolution model is found to better represent the geographic distribution of snow variables in the present climate. In response to idealized radiative forcing changes, both models produce similar global-scale responses in which global-mean temperature and total precipitation increase while snowfall decreases. Zonally, snowfall tends to decrease in the low to midlatitudes and increase in the mid- to high latitudes. At the regional scale, the high- and low-resolution models sometimes diverge in the sign of projected snowfall changes; the high-resolution model exhibits future increases in a few select high-altitude regions, notably the northwestern Himalaya region and small regions in the Andes and southwestern Yukon, Canada. Despite such local signals, there is an almost universal reduction in snowfall as a percent of total precipitation in both models. By using a simple multivariate model, temperature is shown to drive these trends by decreasing snowfall almost everywhere while precipitation increases snowfall in the high altitudes and mid- to high latitudes. Mountainous regions of snowfall increases in the high-resolution model exhibit a unique dominance of the positive contribution from precipitation over temperature.
Therapist Work With Client Strengths
Authors: Harbin James M. , Gelso Charles J. , Pérez Rojas Andrés E.
Published: February 2013

Two studies were conducted to investigate the Inventory of Therapist Work With Client Assets and Strengths (IT-WAS), a new measure constructed to assess the importance therapists place on incorporating strength-based approaches in their therapeutic work. In the first study, a combined sample ( N = 225), comprising therapists in independent practice, graduate students and faculty in counseling-related fields, and counseling center staff at a large mid-Atlantic university was gathered to conduct an exploratory factor analysis. Results yielded three factors (Theory of Intervention, Assessment of Strengths, and Supporting Progress). The data also provided evidence for the IT-WAS’s internal consistency and validity, the latter being supported by correlations with measures of theoretically relevant constructs. In the second study, data from 31 counseling and clinical doctoral students provided evidence for the IT-WAS’s test–retest reliability over a 2-week period. Implications for clinical training and practice are discussed, and areas of future research are provided.
Study on the synthesis and properties of polyacrylamide/Na-montmorillonite nanocomposites
Authors: Koç Zafer , Çelik Meltem , Önal Müşerref , Sarıkaya Yüksel , Öner Yağmur , Açık Leyla
Published: February 2013

A series polyacrylamide/Na-montmorillonite nanocomposites was prepared by in situ free radical polymerization in aqueous medium using benzoyl peroxide (Bz2O2) as a radical initiator. To characterize the resultant nanocomposites, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis techniques were used. The moisture retain, water uptake, antibacterial properties, BET specific surface area and specific nanopore volume of nanocomposites were determined. The X-ray diffraction pattern showed that the polyacrylamide was intercalated up to 60.0 mass% acrylamide concentration, and then montmorillonite layers exfoliated into the polyacrylamide matrix. The interlayer spacing ( d001) of the montmorillonite increased from 1.19 to 1.90 nm by intercalation. Transmission electron microscopy views showed that the Na-montmorillonite partially exfoliated in polyacrylamide. The nanocomposites exhibited better thermal stability than the pure polyacrylamide.
Curcumin Inhibits UV Radiation–Induced Skin Cancer in SKH‐1 Mice
Authors: Phillips Jeffrey , Moore‐Medlin Tara , Sonavane Kunal , Ekshyyan Oleksandr , McLarty Jerry , Nathan Cherie‐Ann O.
Published: February 2013

Objective

As skin cancer incidence increases, research has focused on novel chemopreventive agents that inhibit tumor formation. In prior experimentation, curcumin, a naturally occurring food substance and anticarcinogenic agent, inhibited cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma xenograft growth. We hypothesize curcumin will inhibit UVB radiation–induced skin cancer growth in mice, approximating a human chemopreventive model.

Study Design

Randomized experimental animal and laboratory study.

Setting

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center‐Shreveport, Louisiana.

Subjects and Methods

SKH‐1 mice were pretreated with oral or topical curcumin or oral or topical control (n = 11/group) for 14 days. Mice received UVB radiation 3 times weekly for 24 weeks or were not radiated. Number of tumors formed and time to tumor onset for each mouse were recorded through tumor harvest after week 24. Tumor multiplicity and time to tumor onset were compared.

Results

Time to tumor onset was significantly shorter in control mice compared to mice receiving either oral (P =. 025) or topical (P =. 015) curcumin. A significant difference in the average number of tumors formed per mouse was seen, as fewer tumors were formed in the oral curcumin (P =. 01) and topical curcumin (P =. 01) groups, compared with respective controls. No significant difference in average number of tumors per mouse was seen between oral and topical curcumin (P =. 56), suggesting that both routes were equally effective.

Conclusion

Curcumin appears to inhibit skin cancer formation and prolong time to tumor onset when administered by either an oral or topical route. These data suggest that curcumin may have chemopreventive potential against skin cancer, necessitating future experimentation with human subjects.
Self-cross-linkable hydrogels composed of partially oxidized alginate and gelatin for myocardial infarction repair
Authors: Bai Xiuping , Fang Rui , Zhang Song , Shi Xinli , Wang Zeli , Chen Xiongbiao , Yang Jing , Hou Xiaolu , Nie Yongzhan , Li Yu , Tian Weiming
Published: February 2013

Calcium cross-linked alginate hydrogel has shown positive results for the treatment of myocardial infarction in both acute and chronic rat models. However, cross-linked alginate hydrogels possess poor mechanical properties, uncontrollable degradation, and poor cell adhesion and infiltration. In this study, covalent cross-linking of partially oxidized alginate and gelatin hydrogel was developed for myocardial infarction treatment, as compared to cross-linked alginate hydrogel and saline. Specifically, the gelation process, mechanical properties, and biodegradation of both cross-linked alginate hydrogel and oxidized alginate and gelatin hydrogel were examined in vitro and in vivo; and a rat myocardial infarction model was developed by injecting hydrogel into hearts, and postinjection, echocardiography was performed at 2, 4, and 6 weeks, respectively. Matrix metalloprotease-2/9 activity was also examined by in situ zymography on frozen slices of the treated hearts. Based on the results, that both hydrogels enhanced scar thickness and attenuated heart remodeling compared with the saline control group and that, compared to cross-linked alginate hydrogel, oxidized alginate and gelatin hydrogel exhibited the increased mechanical strength, enhanced angiogenesis, and stronger cell-recruiting capacity. It has also been illustrated that oxidized alginate and gelatin hydrogel–treated hearts have much weaker cardiac remodeling, enhanced extracellular matrix accumulation, and reduced matrix metalloprotease activity than cross-linked alginate hydrogel–treated ones. All results suggest oxidized alginate and gelatin hydrogel may be more suitable for the myocardial infarction treatment.
Clinical Phenomenology and Mortality in Charles Bonnet Syndrome
Authors: Lapid Maria I. , Burton M. Caroline , Chang Megan T. , Rummans Teresa A. , Cha Stephen S. , Leavitt Jacqueline A. , Boeve Bradley F.
Published: February 2013

Background/Aim:

Despite existing diagnostic criteria for Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS), clinical manifestations vary greatly. We examined the clinical course and mortality of patients diagnosed with CBS.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with CBS. We collected demographic and clinical information and medical burden scores. Kaplan-Meier mortality curves were compared using log-rank test. Cox proportional hazard model was used for multivariate analysis and hazard ratio (HR). Mortality was compared to expected mortality from Minnesota population.

Results:

Seventy-seven patients with CBS had a mean age of 79.5 (standard deviation ± 13.0) and were predominantly Caucasian (97%) and female (73%). In all, 20 (26%) subsequently developed a dementia syndrome, most often Lewy body. A total of 46 (60%) deaths occurred with an average follow-up time of 33.0 months. Characteristics associated with mortality included older age (75-84 [HR 3.34, P = .029], >85 [HR 4.58, P = .007]) and renal disease (HR 3.39 with 95% confidence interval 1.31-8.80, P = .012). Medical burden scores were not associated with overall mortality. Mortality was high compared to Minnesota population ( P < .0001).

Conclusions:

A large proportion of patients with CBS developed dementia, and there was a high mortality rate associated with older age and renal disease. Medical burden was not associated with mortality.
Understanding Foreclosure Risk: The Role of Nativity and Gender
Authors: McCormack Karen , Mazar Iyar
Published: February 2013

Drawing on qualitative interviews and fieldwork, this paper examines the risk factors that lead families into mortgage default and foreclosure risk. While neoliberal ideology and policy recognize lower-income families as at greater risk, in this paper we argue that immigrants and women experience particular risks – separation and divorce, the expense of remittances, poorer treatment in rental markets, and conflicting experience of ownership between the United States and country of origin. When these differences are ignored, social policies cannot respond adequately to the disproportionate risk that women and immigrants face to homeownership.
Distal stem features improve the torsional resistance of long-stem cemented revision hip stems: An in vitro biomechanical study
Authors: Holsgrove Timothy P , Petheram Timothy G , Miles Anthony W , Timperley Andrew J
Published: February 2013

When proximal bone stock is compromised at revision hip arthroplasty, distal fixation is often relied upon for stability of the femoral component. In such circumstances, torsional forces can result in debonding and loosening. This study compared the torsional behaviour of a cemented, polished and featureless (plain) stem with cemented, polished stems featuring fins or flutes. The finned stem construct was found to be significantly stiffer than the fluted stem. The maximum torque of the finned and fluted stems was significantly higher than the plain stem, with no difference between the finned and fluted stems. Distal stem features may provide a more reliable and greater resistance to torque in polished, cemented revision hip stems. Finned stem features may also increase the stiffness of the construct.
Replicated stalagmite-inferred centennial-to decadal-scale monsoon precipitation variability in southwest China since the mid Holocene
Authors: Jiang Xiuyang , He Yaoqi , Shen Chuan-Chou , Li Zhizhong , Lin Ke
Published: February 2013

A lack of agreement between stalagmite records of the centennial- to decadal-scale Asian summer monsoon (ASM) variability since the mid Holocene limited our understanding of forcings and the possible impacts on culture evolution. Here we present replicated high-resolution stalagmite δ18O profiles from Dark Cave in Guizhou province, southwest China, established with 512 oxygen isotope data and 28 230Th ages, providing a continuous history of the ASM precipitation from 6100 to 300 years before present (yr BP, before ad 1950). Consistency of stalagmite δ18O-inferred long-term decreasing ASM trends since the mid Holocene between caves at this site and others in the Indian and East Asian monsoon realms on orbital timescales supports the effect of primary orbital solar forcings on monsoonal precipitation. The Dark Cave records display significant centennial- to decadal-scale variations, more evident than previous stalagmite records. Spectral analysis of the Dark Cave δ18O time series yields periodicities of 731–723, 281, 91–83, 67, and 55–54 yr, implying ASM intensity for the last 6 kyr could be associated with solar activity and variability of El Niño-Southern Oscillation.
Hepatic effects of ketamine administration for 2 weeks in rats
Authors: Kalkan Y. , Tomak Y. , Altuner D. , Tumkaya L. , Bostan H. , Yilmaz A. , Unal D. , Kara A. , Turan A.
Published: February 2013

The aim of the present study was to investigate the long-term and high-dose application of ketamine on the liver by employing histologic and biochemical methods. A total of 30 male rats were randomly assigned to control and four treatment groups ( n: 6). Saline for control group and different doses of ketamine for four treatment groups (40, 60, 80 and 100 mg kg−1) were administered intraperitoneal twice a day for 2 weeks. Immunohistological staining, light and electron microscopy were used to study tissue specimens. Histopathological changes were more severe and diverse in groups 80 and 100 mg kg−1 day−1, and the least significant change was observed in groups 40 and 60 mg kg−1 day−1. The most important ultrastructural changes were seen in mitochondria and in the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The immunoreactivity of calcineurin was determined as different. Prolonged use of ketamine caused hepatocellualar toxicity and histological changes in hepatocytes in a dose-dependent manner in all experimental groups.
Transverse impact and axial compression behaviors of glass/epoxy pipes subjected to seawater and impact loading
Authors: Deniz Mehmet Emin , Karakuzu Ramazan , Icten Bulent Murat
Published: February 2013

This article investigates the effects of seawater and impact loading on the impact behavior and compressive strength of impacted glass/epoxy composite pipes. The specimens were immersed into artificial seawater at laboratory conditions for 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. First, the impact tests were carried out on composite pipes at room temperature, and then, the axial compression tests were performed. The results of immersed samples were compared with that of reference specimens (dry). Seawater effect on the force–deflection behavior and failure mechanism is more than impact energy with increase in pipe diameter, while impact energy effect is more dominant than seawater effect for small diameters of the pipe. Compressive strength generally reduces with increase in seawater immersion time and specimen diameter except for the highest diameter.
Development of the Reasons for Entrepreneurs’ Retirement Decision Inventory (RERDI) and Preliminary Evidence of Its Psychometric Properties in a French Sample
Authors: Chevalier Séverine , Fouquereau Evelyne , Gillet Nicolas , Demulier Virginie
Published: February 2013

The purpose of the present research was to develop an original self-report questionnaire to assess the structure of the reasons underlying the retirement decision process among French entrepreneurs using the push pull anti-push anti-pull view. Three studies were conducted to examine the reliability and validity of the Reasons for Entrepreneurs’ Retirement Decision Inventory (RERDI). The first study involved creating a list of items leading to a preliminary version of the RERDI. In the second study, 167 French entrepreneurs were surveyed to test the factor structure of the RERDI and to select the final items leading to a 16-item inventory. This tool comprises four reliable subscales: (a) push, (b) pull, (c) anti-push, and (d) anti-pull, with adequate internal consistency. Using confirmatory factor analysis, this four-factor structure was confirmed in the third study ( n = 255). The RERDI’s convergent validity and temporal stability were also confirmed. The importance of this inventory for further research and practice is discussed.
Early Weight-Bearing After Percutaneous Reduction and Screw Fixation for Low-Energy Lisfranc Injury
Authors: Wagner Emilio , Ortiz Cristian , Villalón Ignacio E. , Keller Andrés , Wagner Pablo
Published: February 2013

Background:

Anatomic restoration and postoperative rehabilitation of displaced fracture-dislocations of the tarsometatarsal junction of the foot are essential. Our objective was to report percutaneous reduction and screw fixation results in low-energy Lisfranc fracture dislocation injuries that were treated with early weight-bearing and rehabilitation.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated patients with low-energy Lisfranc injuries who underwent surgery between May 2007 and April 2011. The study reviewed 22 patients (12 men and 10 women) with an average age of 36.2 years (range, 16-50 years) and an average follow-up of 33.2 months (range, 12-50 months). We report the mechanism of trauma; quality of reduction in the postoperative digital radiographs; subjective satisfaction; AOFAS score; time required to return to work, recreational activities, and low-impact sports; and complications. Postoperatively, all of the patients were instructed to be non-weight-bearing for 3 weeks, and the stitches were removed after 2 weeks. At the third postoperative week, the patients were encouraged to bear weight as tolerated.

Results:

Quality of reduction was anatomic or near anatomic in 100% of cases. The subjective satisfaction reported by patients was very good, with complete satisfaction in 20 of them (90.9%). The AOFAS average was 94 points (range, 90-100 points). Average return to work was at 7 weeks (range, 6-9 weeks), recreational activities 7.2 weeks (range, 6-9 weeks), training for low-impact sports 7.6 weeks (range, 7-8 weeks), and symptom-free sport activities 12.4 weeks (range, 11-13 weeks).

Conclusion:

In this selected group of patients with low-energy Lisfranc fracture dislocation, anatomic or near-anatomic reduction can be achieved with percutaneous reduction and screw fixation. Early weight-bearing is possible in these patients, and early return to regular activities and low-impact sport can be expected.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
From Ethnography to Mesography
Authors: Elie Serge D.
Published: February 2013

The prevailing geopolitical relations between parts of the world have always provided the enabling matrix of anthropological practice. Given the emerging global power alternation and its reconfiguration of the political and epistemic relations between regions of the world, which I call a postexotic historical conjuncture, anthropology must recalibrate its practices. This article suggests 5 domains of disciplinary adjustment: First, the reconceptualization of our metageographic imagination from one that assumes hierarchical relations to one of horizontal or radial relations between the world’s regions. Second, the abandonment of an egocentric intellectual sensibility in favor of a sociocentric one, as orientation to fieldwork. Third, the disassociation of fieldwork as a distinctive research practice from ethnography. Fourth, the substitution of mesography for ethnography as an alternative approach to inquiry for a postexotic anthropology. And fifth, the adoption of an ethic of reciprocity as a remedy to the chronic unequal exchange between anthropologists and communities.
ICD and End-of-Life Discussions
Authors: Simm Aimee Webb , Ainsworth Lorina Masterson , Sarah Macht Sister Mary , Adams JoAnna Grace , Callen Bonnie Louise
Published: February 2013

An implanted cardiac defibrillator (ICD) is a unique indwelling device for the treatment of cardiac dysrhythmia and the prevention of sudden cardiac death. On February 4, 1980, the first ICD was implanted into a human subject. Thousands of Americans have been saved as a result of this device. Near the end of life, an active ICD may no longer be consistent with a patient’s needs and/or current health status. The very benefit of the device becomes the risk. Research has shown a deficit in recipient understanding of the role and function of the ICD. Likewise, there is a deficit in physician-led discussions and education of ICD deactivation in end-of-life care.
SAS Code for Calculating Intraclass Correlation Coefficients and Effect Size Benchmarks for Site-Randomized Education Experiments
Authors: Brandon Paul R. , Harrison George M. , Lawton Brian E.
Published: February 2013

When evaluators plan site-randomized experiments, they must conduct the appropriate statistical power analyses. These analyses are most likely to be valid when they are based on data from the jurisdictions in which the studies are to be conducted. In this method note, we provide software code, in the form of a SAS macro, for producing statistical power analyses using such data. The macro is designed to estimate statistical parameters for multiple school subjects and multiple grades in a single computer run. Among other convenient features, the macro calculates intraclass correlation coefficient confidence intervals, which are essential for planning studies conservatively. We also provide a SAS macro for calculating benchmarks–again, using locally-based–data for interpreting the feasibility of achieving the minimum detectable effect sizes that are calculated in statistical power analyses. The benchmarks are potentially useful for interpreting the meaning of the effect sizes that are achieved in completed studies, as well. We describe the macros, describe how we verified their accuracy, show how they can be useful to education evaluators, and give examples of their use with statewide educational assessment data. It is our hope that the macros will help evaluators use local data when conducting group-randomized studies.
It’s not what you know it’s who you know: Political connectedness and political engagement at the local level
Authors: Alexander Damon
Published: February 2013

Drawing on a survey of households across a small rural community in north central Victoria, Australia, this article uses social network analysis to examine the embedded political resources citizens draw on and mobilize in order to effect change at the local level. The article uses a name generator to map the structure, size and composition of citizens’ political support networks and to identify key actors or ‘nodes’ they rely upon to get action on local issues. More traditional quantitative measures are then used to examine how being more or less ‘politically connected’ impacts upon levels of political engagement. The findings confirm that ‘who you know’ is important, with both the level of political connectedness and breadth of contact types important predictors of increased participation in political activities.
Republishing ‘The Ten Little Negros’: Exploring nationalism and ‘whiteness’ in Iceland
Authors: Loftsdóttir Kristín
Published: February 2013

The Icelandic version of the book The Ten Little Negros was republished in the autumn of 2007 after its original publication in Iceland in 1922, creating multilayered debate about the meaning of race and racism in Iceland. In this paper, I stress that, within the European context, ‘whiteness’ has to be theorized as emerging from particular histories and realities, being entangled with other identifications such as national identity. I explore the debate surrounding the book, claiming that it reveals how Icelanders struggle to see themselves as innocent in relation to racism. I suggest that the constant references to the past in these dialogues seek to establish Icelandic innocence as a persistent and ongoing Icelandic characteristic.
Action research as a both-ways curriculum development approach: Supporting self-determination in the remote Indigenous child care workforce in the Northern Territory of Australia
Authors: Bat Melodie , Fasoli Lyn
Published: February 2013

This article gives a detailed example of how action research theory can inform an innovative approach to education and training through its use as a curriculum design device within the both-ways philosophy of Indigenous education. This work was undertaken through a VET training program at the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia. The specific target group was Indigenous people currently working in early childhood services in remote Indigenous communities in the NT where few hold the necessary qualifications. The curriculum development methodology described in this article embeds an iterative and reflexive approach to learning that is intended to support the empowerment and self-determination of the Indigenous early childhood workers while delivering a nationally recognized ‘mainstream’ qualification.
Listening and Representation
Authors: Herrick Rebekah
Published: February 2013

Policy representation requires legislators to advance the interests of their constituents. As a consequence, much research on representation examines the congruence between constituents' preferences and legislators' behaviors. This article argues it is more realistic to think of policy representation as listening—a process—than congruence—an outcome. Listening involves legislators monitoring constituent interests and using that information in making decisions. Using data from a survey of state legislators in 26 states, this research finds that monitoring contributes to using constituent information and offers a measure of listening based on these two behaviors. Furthermore, it finds that compared with the decisions of others, the decisions (measured as cosponsoring gay, lesbian, and bisexual [GLB] issue legislation) of legislators who listen are more strongly influenced by district preferences (measured as district votes on same-sex marriage ballot initiatives). This suggests that listening contributes to representation.
Botulinum toxin-A for the treatment of overactive bladder: UK contributions
Authors: Seth JH , Dowson C , Khan MS , Panicker JN , Fowler CJ , Dasgupta P , Sahai A
Published: February 2013

Background:

Botulinum toxin-A (BoNT/A) is now established second-line management for refractory overactive bladder (OAB) and recognised in many incontinence guidelines and pathways. For those with neurogenic detrusor overactivity secondary to spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis, the toxin is currently licensed in certain parts of the world, including the UK. It is an effective treatment in those in whom antimuscarinics and conservative measures have failed who have symptoms of OAB and or detrusor overactivity (DO).

Methods:

Treatment can be given in an outpatient setting and can be administered under local anaesthesia. Its efficacy lasts for between six and 12 months.

Results:

It has an acceptable safety profile with the biggest risk being urinary tract infection and difficulty emptying the bladder, necessitating clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC). Medium-term follow-up suggests repeated injections are also safe and efficacious.

Conclusions:

The mechanism of action of the toxin is more complicated than originally thought, and it seems likely that it affects motor and sensory nerves of the bladder. In the last 10 years much of the progress of this treatment from early experimental trials to mainstream clinical use, and a better understanding of how it works in the bladder, are as a result of research conducted in the UK. This review summarises the significant and substantial evidence for BoNT/A to treat refractory OAB from UK centres.
GmGBP1, a homolog of human ski interacting protein in soybean, regulates flowering and stress tolerance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Yanwei , Zhao Lin , Li Haiyan , Gao Yang , Li Yongguang , Wu Xiaoxia , Teng Weili , Han Yingpeng , Zhao Xue , Li Wenbin
Published: February 2013

Background

SKIP is a transcription cofactor in many eukaryotes. It can regulate plant stress tolerance in rice and Arabidopsis. But the homolog of SKIP protein in soybean has been not reported up to now.

Results

In this study, the expression patterns of soybean GAMYB binding protein gene (GmGBP1) encoding a homolog of SKIP protein were analyzed in soybean under abiotic stresses and different day lengths. The expression of GmGBP1 was induced by polyethyleneglycol 6000, NaCl, gibberellin, abscisic acid and heat stress. GmGBP1 had transcriptional activity in C-terminal. GmGBP1 could interact with R2R3 domain of GmGAMYB1 in SKIP domain to take part in gibberellin flowering pathway. In long-day (16 h-light) condition, transgenic Arabidopsis with the ectopic overexpression of GmGBP1 exhibited earlier flowering and less number of rosette leaves; Suppression of AtSKIP in Arabidopsis resulted in growth arrest, flowering delay and down-regulation of many flowering-related genes (CONSTANS, FLOWERING LOCUS T, LEAFY); Arabidopsis myb33 mutant plants with ectopic overexpression of GmGBP1 showed the same flowering phenotype with wild type. In short-day (8 h-light) condition, transgenic Arabidopsis plants with GmGBP1 flowered later and showed a higher level of FLOWERING LOCUS C compared with wild type. When treated with abiotic stresses, transgenic Arabidopsis with the ectopic overexpression of GmGBP1 enhanced the tolerances to heat and drought stresses but reduced the tolerance to high salinity, and affected the expressions of several stress-related genes.

Conclusions

In Arabidopsis, GmGBP1 might positively regulate the flowering time by affecting CONSTANS, FLOWERING LOCUS T, LEAFY and GAMYB directly or indirectly in photoperiodic and gibberellin pathways in LDs, but GmGBP1 might represse flowering by affecting FLOWERING LOCUS C and SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE in autonomous pathway in SDs. GmGBP1 might regulate the activity of ROS-eliminating to improve the resistance to heat and drought but reduce the high-salinity tolerance.
Risk of type 2 diabetes according to traditional and emerging anthropometric indices in Spain, a Mediterranean country with high prevalence of obesity: results from a large-scale prospective cohort study
Authors: Huerta José María , Tormo María-José , Chirlaque María-Dolores , Gavrila Diana , Amiano Pilar , Arriola Larraitz , Ardanaz Eva , Rodríguez Laudina , Sánchez María-José , Mendez Michelle , Salmerón Diego , Barricarte Aurelio , Burgui Rosana , Dorronsoro Miren , Larrañaga Nerea , Molina-Montes Esther , Moreno-Iribas Conchi , Quirós José Ramón , Toledo Estefanía , Travier Noémie , González Carlos A , Navarro Carmen
Published: February 2013

Background

Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A proper anthropometric characterisation of T2DM risk is essential for disease prevention and clinical risk assessement.

Methods

Longitudinal study in 37 733 participants (63% women) of the Spanish EPIC (European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition) cohort without prevalent diabetes. Detailed questionnaire information was collected at baseline and anthropometric data gathered following standard procedures. A total of 2513 verified incident T2DM cases occurred after 12.1 years of mean follow-up. Multivariable Cox regression was used to calculate hazard ratios of T2DM by levels of anthropometric variables.

Results

Overall and central obesity were independently associated with T2DM risk. BMI showed the strongest association with T2DM in men whereas waist-related indices were stronger independent predictors in women. Waist-to-height ratio revealed the largest area under the ROC curve in men and women, with optimal cut-offs at 0.60 and 0.58, respectively. The most discriminative waist circumference (WC) cut-off values were 99.4 cm in men and 90.4 cm in women. Absolute risk of T2DM was higher in men than women for any combination of age, BMI and WC categories, and remained low in normal-waist women. The population risk of T2DM attributable to obesity was 17% in men and 31% in women.

Conclusions

Diabetes risk was associated with higher overall and central obesity indices even at normal BMI and WC values. The measurement of waist circumference in the clinical setting is strongly recommended for the evaluation of future T2DM risk in women.
Pharmacological, antioxidant, genotoxic studies and modulation of rat splenocyte functions by Cyperus rotundus extracts
Authors: Soumaya Kilani-Jaziri , Dhekra Mhalla , Fadwa Châbane , Zied Ghedira , Ilef Limem , Kamel Ghedira , Leila Chekir-Ghedira
Published: February 2013

Background

Cyperus rotundus Linn. (Cyperaceae) is a Tunisian medicinal plant used in folkloric (traditional) medicine to treat stomach disorders and inflammatory diseases. The present study explored the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and genotoxic activities of extracts from the aerial parts of C. rotundus. The antioxidant capacity and the modulation of splenocyte functions by these extracts were also investigated in mice. The phytochemical analysis was carried out using standard methods.

Methods

Aqueous, ethyl acetate, methanol and TOF-enriched extracts (300, 150, and 50 μg/ml) were evaluated for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. 4, 2, and 1 mg/ml of each extract were tested to investigate their effect on lipid peroxidation. The genotoxic study was monitored by measuring the structural chromosome aberrations of mice treated with 300 mg/kg of extract. The proliferation of lymphocytes in the absence and presence of mitogens was assessed at a concentration range 1–1000 μg/ml.

Results

The tested extracts were able to decrease the mouse ear oedema induced by xylene. Furthermore, it was shown that the same extracts reduced the number of abdominal contractions caused by acetic acid in mice, revealing the peripheral analgesic activity of these extracts. It is worth noting that mice treated with doses up to 300 mg/kg b.w. of Cyperus rotundus extracts did not exhibit any toxicity. The tested extracts significantly enhance lymphocyte proliferation at 1 mg/ml.

Conclusions

It appears that C. rotundus extracts contain potent components such as flavonoids that may potentially be useful for modulating the immune cell functions, provoking analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Cytosolic Ca2+ shifts as early markers of cytotoxicity
Authors: Wyrsch Philippe , Blenn Christian , Pesch Theresa , Beneke Sascha , Althaus Felix R
Published: February 2013

The determination of the cytotoxic potential of new and so far unknown compounds as well as their metabolites is fundamental in risk assessment. A variety of strategic endpoints have been defined to describe toxin-cell interactions, leading to prediction of cell fate. They involve measurement of metabolic endpoints, bio-energetic parameters or morphological cell modifications. Here, we evaluated alterations of the free cytosolic Ca2+ homeostasis using the Fluo-4 dye and compared results with the metabolic cell viability assay Alamar Blue. We investigated a panel of toxins (As2O3, gossypol, H2O2, staurosporine, and titanium(IV)-salane complexes) in four different mammalian cell lines covering three different species (human, mouse, and African green monkey). All tested compounds induced an increase in free cytosolic Ca2+ within the first 5 s after toxin application. Cytosolic Ca2+ shifts occurred independently of the chemical structure in all tested cell systems and were persistent up to 3 h. The linear increase of free cytosolic Ca2+ within the first 5 s of drug treatment correlates with the EC25 and EC75 values obtained in Alamar Blue assays one day after toxin exposure. Moreover, a rise of cytosolic Ca2+ was detectable independent of induced cell death mode as assessed by caspase and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) activity in HeLa versus MCF-7 cells at very low concentrations. In conclusion, a cytotoxicity assay based on Ca2+ shifts has a low limit of detection (LOD), is less time consuming (at least 24 times faster) compared to the cell viability assay Alamar Blue and is suitable for high-troughput-screening (HTS).
Toll-like receptor 4 mediates microglial activation and production of inflammatory mediators in neonatal rat brain following hypoxia: role of TLR4 in hypoxic microglia
Authors: Yao Linli , Kan Enci Mary , Lu Jia , Hao Aijun , Dheen S Thameem , Kaur Charanjit , Ling Eng-Ang
Published: February 2013

Background

Hypoxia induces microglial activation which causes damage to the developing brain. Microglia derived inflammatory mediators may contribute to this process. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has been reported to induce microglial activation and cytokines production in brain injuries; however, its role in hypoxic injury remains uncertain. We investigate here TLR4 expression and its roles in neuroinflammation in neonatal rats following hypoxic injury.

Methods

One day old Wistar rats were subjected to hypoxia for 2 h. Primary cultured microglia and BV-2 cells were subjected to hypoxia for different durations. TLR4 expression in microglia was determined by RT-PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence staining. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection and antibody neutralization were employed to downregulate TLR4 in BV-2 and primary culture. mRNA and protein expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was assessed. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO) and NF-κB levels were determined by flow cytometry, colorimetric and ELISA assays respectively. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) mRNA and protein expression was quantified and where necessary, the protein expression was depleted by antibody neutralization.In vivoinhibition of TLR4 with CLI-095 injection was carried out followed by investigation of inflammatory mediators expression via double immunofluorescence staining.

Results

TLR4 immunofluorescence and protein expression in the corpus callosum and cerebellum in neonatal microglia were markedly enhanced post-hypoxia.In vitro, TLR4 protein expression was significantly increased in both primary microglia and BV-2 cells post-hypoxia. TLR4 neutralization in primary cultured microglia attenuated the hypoxia-induced expression of TNF-α, IL-1β and iNOS. siRNA knockdown of TLR4 reduced hypoxia-induced upregulation of TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOS, ROS and NO in BV-2 cells. TLR4 downregulation-mediated inhibition of inflammatory cytokines in primary microglia and BV-2 cells was accompanied by the suppression of NF-κB activation. Furthermore, HIF-1α antibody neutralization attenuated the increase of TLR4 expression in hypoxic BV-2 cells. TLR4 inhibitionin vivoattenuated the immunoexpression of TNF-α, IL-1β and iNOS on microglia post-hypoxia.

Conclusion

Activated microglia TLR4 expression mediated neuroinflammation via a NF-κB signaling pathway in response to hypoxia. Hence, microglia TLR4 presents as a potential therapeutic target for neonatal hypoxia brain injuries.
CrypticIBDcheck: an R package for checking cryptic relatedness in nominally unrelated individuals
Authors: Nembot-Simo Annick , Graham Jinko , McNeney Brad
Published: February 2013

Background

In population association studies, standard methods of statistical inference assume that study subjects are independent samples. In genetic association studies, it is therefore of interest to diagnose undocumented close relationships in nominally unrelated study samples.

Results

We describe the R package CrypticIBDcheck to identify pairs of closely-related subjects based on genetic marker data from single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The package is able to accommodate SNPs in linkage disequibrium (LD), without the need to thin the markers so that they are approximately independent in the population. Sample pairs are identified by superposing their estimated identity-by-descent (IBD) coefficients on plots of IBD coefficients for pairs of simulated subjects from one of several common close relationships.

Conclusions

The methods implemented in CrypticIBDcheck are particularly relevant to candidate-gene association studies, in which dependent SNPs cluster in a relatively small number of genes spread throughout the genome. The accommodation of LD allows the use of all available genetic data, a desirable property when working with a modest number of dependent SNPs within candidate genes. CrypticIBDcheck is available from the Comprehensive R Archive Network (CRAN).
Alleviating effects of morin against experimentally-induced diabetic osteopenia
Authors: Abuohashish Hatem M , Al-Rejaie Salim S , Al-Hosaini Khaled A , Parmar Mihir Y , Ahmed Mohammed M
Published: February 2013

Background

Plant flavonoids are emerging as potent therapeutic drugs effective against a wide range of aging diseases particularly bone metabolic disorders. Morin (3,5,7,20,40-pentahydroxyflavone), a member of flavonols, is an important bioactive compound by interacting with nucleic acids, enzymes and protein. The present study was designed to investigate the putative beneficial effect of morin on diabetic osteopenia in rats.

Methods

Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic model was used by considering 300 mg/dl fasting glucose level as diabetic. Morin (15 and 30 mg/kg) was treated for five consecutive weeks to diabetic rats. Serum levels of glucose, insulin, deoxypyridinoline cross links (DPD), osteocalcin (OC), bone specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP), telopeptides of collagen type I (CTX), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were estimated. Femoral bones were taken for micro CT scan to measure trabecular bone mineral density (BMD) and other morphometric parameters.

Results

Significant bone loss was documented as the level of bone turnover parameters including DPD, OC, BALP and CTX were increased in serum of diabetic rats. Morin treatment significantly attenuated these elevated levels. Bone micro-CT scan of diabetic rats showed a significant impairment in trabecular bone microarchitecture, density and other morphometric parameters. These impairments were significantly ameliorated by morin administration. Serum levels of glucose, TBARS, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly elevated, while the level of insulin and GSH was decreased in diabetic rats. These serum changes in diabetic rats were bring back to normal values after 5 weeks morin treatment.

Conclusion

These findings revealed the protective effect of morin against diabetic induced osteopenia. We believed that this effect is through its both the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Complex roles of filamin-A mediated cytoskeleton network in cancer progression
Authors: Yue Jingyin , Huhn Steven , Shen Zhiyuan
Published: February 2013

Filamin-A (FLNA), also called actin-binding protein 280 (ABP-280), was originally identified as a non-muscle actin binding protein, which organizes filamentous actin into orthogonal networks and stress fibers. Filamin-A also anchors various transmembrane proteins to the actin cytoskeleton and provides a scaffold for a wide range of cytoplasmic and nuclear signaling proteins. Intriguingly, several studies have revealed that filamin-A associates with multiple non-cytoskeletal proteins of diverse function and is involved in several unrelated pathways. Mutations and aberrant expression of filamin-A have been reported in human genetic diseases and several types of cancer. In this review, we discuss the implications of filamin-A in cancer progression, including metastasis and DNA damage response.
President's Page
Authors: Cooke Dennis A.
Published: February 2013

Have you seen the movie Switch yet? It is a full-length documentary, cowritten and narrated by Scott Tinker of the Texas Bureau of Economic Geology and funded in part by AAPG. Unlike many other documentaries on energy and/or the environment, Switch does not advocate an agenda, but instead tries to educate the public on how much energy we use, where our energy comes from (the various forms of both fossil fuels and renewables), and the opportunities and difficulties involved in the transition from fossil fuels to renewables.
Dexamethasone: Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Generali Joyce A. , Cada Dennis J.
Published: February 2013

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label Drug Facts, a quarterly publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label Drug Facts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific drug uses that are unapproved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This new guide to the literature enables the health care professional or clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information before patient care decisions are made. Direct questions or comments regarding Off-Label Drug Uses to jgeneral@kumc.edu .
Pharmacy-Based Medication Reconciliation Program Utilizing Pharmacists and Technicians: A Process Improvement Initiative
Authors: Smith Stephanie B. , Mango Michael D.
Published: February 2013

Background

Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians have an opportunity to impact the quality of the medication histories and improve patient safety by ensuring accurate medication lists are obtained and complete reconciliation has occurred with the admission medication orders by owning the admission medication reconciliation process.

Objective

To compare the quality of a pharmacy-based medication reconciliation program on admission utilizing pharmacists and technicians to the usual multidisciplinary process.

Methods

This was a retrospective chart review process improvement study at a 186-bed tertiary care inpatient facility. Primary outcomes included both the accuracy of pre-admission medications listed and the reconciliation of those medications with admission inpatient orders. Technicians obtained patient medication histories. Pharmacists checked the technician-obtained medication histories and ensured reconciliation of those medications with admission orders.

Results

Medication accuracy increased from 45.8% to 95% per patient ( P < .001) and medication reconciliation increased from 44.2% to 92.8% ( P < .001) and remained above benchmark.

Conclusion

A pharmacy-based medication reconciliation program utilizing both pharmacists and technicians significantly increased the accuracy and reconciliation of medications on admission. These gains were maintained for the duration of the 6-month period studied and beyond per continued process improvement data collection.