bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of the cAMP/PKA pathway induces UT-A1 urea transporter monoubiquitination and targets it for lysosomal degradation
Authors: Su Hua , Chen Minguang , Sands Jeff M. , Chen Guangping
Published: October 2013

Regulation of urea transporter UT-A1 in the kidney is important for the urinary concentrating mechanism. We previously reported that activation of the cAMP/PKA pathway by forskolin (FSK) leads to UT-A1 ubiquitination, endocytosis, and degradation. In this study, we discovered that FSK-induced UT-A1 ubiquitination is monoubiquitination as judged by immunoblotting with specific ubiquitin antibodies to the different linkages of the ubiquitin chain. UT-A1 monoubiquitination induced by FSK was processed mainly on the cell plasma membrane. Monoubiquitination facilitates UT-A1 endocytosis, and internalized UT-A1 is accumulated in the early endosome. Inhibition of ubiquitination by E1 ubiquitin-activating enzyme inhibitor PYR-41 significantly reduced FSK-induced UT-A1 endocytosis and degradation. Interestingly, FSK-stimulated UT-A1 degradation occurs through a lysosomal protein degradation system. We further found that the PKA phosphorylation sites of UT-A1 at Ser486 and Ser499 are required for FSK-induced UT-A1 monoubiquitination. The physiological significance was confirmed using rat kidney inner medullary collecting duct suspensions, which showed that vasopressin treatment promotes UT-A1 ubiquitination. We conclude that unlike under basal conditions in which UT-A1 is subject to polyubiquitination and proteasome-mediated protein degradation, activation of UT-A1 by FSK induces UT-A1 monoubiquitination and protein lysosomal degradation.
Systemic Iron Homeostasis
Authors: Ganz Tomas
Published: October 2013

The iron hormone hepcidin and its receptor and cellular iron exporter ferroportin control the major fluxes of iron into blood plasma: intestinal iron absorption, the delivery of recycled iron from macrophages, and the release of stored iron from hepatocytes. Because iron losses are comparatively very small, iron absorption and its regulation by hepcidin and ferroportin determine total body iron content. Hepcidin is in turn feedback-regulated by plasma iron concentration and iron stores, and negatively regulated by the activity of erythrocyte precursors, the dominant consumers of iron. Hepcidin and ferroportin also play a role in host defense and inflammation, and hepcidin synthesis is induced by inflammatory signals including interleukin-6 and activin B. This review summarizes and discusses recent progress in molecular characterization of systemic iron homeostasis and its disorders, and identifies areas for further investigation.
Small G Proteins in the Cardiovascular System: Physiological and Pathological Aspects
Authors: Loirand Gervaise , Sauzeau Vincent , Pacaud Pierre
Published: October 2013

Small G proteins exist in eukaryotes from yeast to human and constitute the Ras superfamily comprising more than 100 members. This superfamily is structurally classified into five families: the Ras, Rho, Rab, Arf, and Ran families that control a wide variety of cell and biological functions through highly coordinated regulation processes. Increasing evidence has accumulated to identify small G proteins and their regulators as key players of the cardiovascular physiology that control a large panel of cardiac (heart rhythm, contraction, hypertrophy) and vascular functions (angiogenesis, vascular permeability, vasoconstriction). Indeed, basal Ras protein activity is required for homeostatic functions in physiological conditions, but sustained overactivation of Ras proteins or spatiotemporal dysregulation of Ras signaling pathways has pathological consequences in the cardiovascular system. The primary object of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current progress in our understanding of the role of small G proteins and their regulators in cardiovascular physiology and pathologies.
HAb18G/CD147 Promotes pSTAT3-Mediated Pancreatic Cancer Development via CD44s
Authors: Li Ling , Tang Wenhua , Wu Xiaoqing , Karnak David , Meng Xiaojie , Thompson Rachel , Hao Xinbao , Li Yongmin , Qiao Xiaotan T. , Lin Jiayuh , Fuchs James , Simeone Diane M. , Chen Zhi-Nan , Lawrence Theodore S. , Xu Liang
Published: October 2013

Purpose: Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays a critical role in initiation and progression of pancreatic cancer. However, therapeutically targeting STAT3 has failed clinically. We previously identified HAb18G/CD147 as an effective target for cancer treatment. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential role of HAb18G/CD147 in STAT3-involved pancreatic tumorigenesis in vitro and in vivo.

Experimental Design: The expression of HAb18G/CD147, pSTAT3, and CD44s was determined in tissue microarrays. The tumorigenic function and molecular signaling mechanism of HAb18G/CD147 were assessed by in vitro cellular and clonogenic growth, reporter assay, immunoblot assay, immunofluorescence staining, immunoprecipitation, and in vivo tumor formation using loss or gain-of-function strategies.

Results: Highly expressed HAb18G/CD147 promoted cellular and clonogenic growth in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo. Cyclophilin A (CyPA), a ligand of CD147, stimulated STAT3 phosphorylation and its downstream genes cyclin D1/survivin through HAb18G/CD147-dependent mechanisms. HAb18G/CD147 was associated and colocalized with cancer stem cell marker CD44s in lipid rafts. The inhibitors of STAT3 and survivin, as well as CD44s neutralizing antibodies suppressed the HAb18G/CD147-induced cell growth. High HAb18G/CD147 expression in pancreatic cancer was significantly correlated with the poor tumor differentiation, and the high coexpression of HAb18G/CD147-CD44s-STAT3 associated with poor survival of patients with pancreatic cancer.

Conclusions: We identified HAb18G/CD147 as a novel upstream activator of STAT3, which interacts with CD44s and plays a critical role in the development of pancreatic cancer. The data suggest that HAb18G/CD147 could be a promising therapeutic target for highly aggressive pancreatic cancer and a surrogate marker in the STAT3-targeted molecular therapies. Clin Cancer Res; 19(24); 6703–15. ©2013 AACR.
A Decade of Improvements in Mimiviridae and Marseilleviridae Isolation from Amoeba
Authors: Pagnier Isabelle , Reteno Dorine-Gaelle Ikanga , Saadi Hanene , Boughalmi Mondher , Gaia Morgan , Slimani Meriem , Ngounga Tatsiana , Bekliz Meriem , Colson Philippe , Raoult Didier , La Scola Bernard
Published: October 2013

Since the isolation of the first giant virus, the Mimivirus, by T.J. Rowbotham in a cooling tower in Bradford, UK, and after its characterisation by our group in 2003, we have continued to develop novel strategies to isolate additional strains. By first focusing on cooling towers using our original time-consuming procedure, we were able to isolate a new lineage of giant virus called Marseillevirus and a new Mimivirus strain called Mamavirus. In the following years, we have accumulated the world's largest unique collection of giant viruses by improving the use of antibiotic combinations to avoid bacterial contamination of amoeba, developing strategies of preliminary screening of samples by molecular methods, and using a high-throughput isolation method developed by our group. Based on the inoculation of nearly 7,000 samples, our collection currently contains 43 strains of Mimiviridae (14 in lineage A, 6 in lineage B, and 23 in lineage C) and 17 strains of Marseilleviridae isolated from various environments, including 3 of human origin. This study details the procedures used to build this collection and paves the way for the high-throughput isolation of new isolates to improve the record of giant virus distribution in the environment and the determination of their pangenome.
First Isolation of a Marseillevirus in the Diptera Syrphidae Eristalis tenax
Authors: Boughalmi Mondher , Pagnier Isabelle , Aherfi Sarah , Colson Philippe , Raoult Didier , La Scola Bernard
Published: October 2013

Objective: Giant viruses and amoebae are common in freshwater, where they can coexist with various insects. We screened insect larvae to detect giant viruses using a high-throughput method. Methods: We analyzed 86 Eristalis tenax larvae obtained from stagnant water reservoirs in Tunisia. The larvae were decontaminated and then dissected to remove internal parts for coculture with Acanthamoeba polyphaga. Genome sequencing of isolated viruses was performed on a 454 Roche instrument, and comparative genomics were performed. Results: One Marseillevirus, named Insectomime virus, was isolated. The genome assembly generated two scaffolds, which were 382,776 and 3,855 bp in length. Among the 477 identified predicted proteins, the best hit for 435 of the identified proteins was a Marseillevirus or Lausannevirus protein. Tunisvirus was the most closely related to Insectomime, with 446 orthologs. One Insectomime protein shared with Lausannevirus and Tunisvirus showed the highest similarity with a protein from an aphid. Conclusion: The isolation of a Marseillevirus from an insect expands the diversity of environments in which giant viruses have been isolated. The coexistence of larvae and giant viruses in stagnant water may explain the presence of the giant virus in the larva internal structures. This study illustrates the putative role of amoeba in lateral gene transfer not only between the organisms it phagocytoses, but also between organisms living in the same environment.
Shan Virus: A New Mimivirus Isolated from the Stool of a Tunisian Patient with Pneumonia
Authors: Saadi Hanene , Reteno Dorine-Gaelle Ikanga , Colson Philippe , Aherfi Sarah , Minodier Philippe , Pagnier Isabelle , Raoult Didier , La Scola Bernard
Published: October 2013

Objective: Following the isolation of a Marseillevirus from the stool of a healthy young Senegalese and a Mimivirus from a Tunisian patient with pneumonia, we attempted to isolate other giant viruses of amoebae from a large human stool collection. Methods: During the period 2010-2011, a total of 1,605 stool samples, including 115 from Tunisian patients with pneumonia, were cultured on amoebae. We used a recently developed high-throughput isolation system to detect amoebae plaque lysis on agar plates; this method allows for the testing of 100 samples per plate per week. The giant virus was identified by sequencing of genes conserved in Megavirales. Results: A single giant virus, called Shan, was isolated from the stool of a Tunisian patient with pneumonia who responded poorly to antibiotics. This virus has an icosahedral shape typical of members of the family Mimiviridae and a size of 640 ± 10 nm. Phylogenetic analyses showed that Shan virus was classified as a member of Mimivirus lineage C that infects amoebae. Conclusion: Only one isolate was obtained in this study, suggesting that giant viruses of amoebae are rare in human stool. The isolation of Shan virus from a patient with pneumonia brings into question the etiological role of this virus and its subsequent release in stool.
Alcohol Disinfection Procedure for Isolating Giant Viruses from Contaminated Samples
Authors: Slimani Meriem , Pagnier Isabelle , Boughalmi Mondher , Raoult Didier , La Scola Bernard
Published: October 2013

Objective: Giant viruses of the Megavirales order have been neglected in the literature because they are removed from samples during viral purification for viral metagenomic studies. Isolation via amoeba coculture has low efficiency and is extremely time-consuming. Thus, our objective was to improve Megavirales detection and recovery by using a new protocol that will eliminate most bacteria present in environmental samples while preserving giant virus viability. Methods: In this study, we tested the ability of a number of disinfection protocols to kill contaminating bacteria. These treatments were ethanol, UV irradiation, desiccation, glutaraldehyde and thermal shock. Results: Of all the treatments, a brief ethanol treatment did not significantly reduce the titer of viable viral particles of Acanthamoeba polyphaga mimivirus or Marseillevirus, whereas it efficiently killed Escherichia coli. This treatment was applied to environmental samples that previously tested positive for giant viruses and was shown to eliminate contaminating bacteria, whereas it allowed for the isolation of the giant viruses. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that ethanol treatment can be used to evaluate large collections of environmental samples for the presence of giant viruses and to provide insight into understanding their ecology. This study should also facilitate the isolation of giant viruses using other species of protozoa in addition to Acanthamoeba spp.
An Increased Number of CD4+CD25+ Cells Induced by an Oral Administration of Lactobacillus plantarum NRIC0380 Are Involved in Antiallergic Activity
Authors: Yoshida Tadashi , Fujiwara Wataru , Enomoto Mai , Nakayama Sayuri , Matsuda Hiroshi , Sugiyama Hisashi , Shimojoh Manabu , Okada Sanae , Hattori Makoto
Published: October 2013

Background: Our previous study showed that an oral administration of Lactobacillus plantarum NRIC0380 inhibited immunoglobulin E (IgE) production in a murine model, and that orally administered NRIC0380 induced CD4+CD25+ Foxp3+ T, i.e. regulatory T (Treg), cells in the spleen and Peyer's patch of mice. Although it has been reported that Treg cells might suppress the allergic symptoms, the involvement of the cells in the antiallergic activity of lactic acid bacteria has not been clearly demonstrated. We therefore examined in detail the antiallergic activity of Treg cells obtained from mice that had been fed NRIC0380. Methods: Treg cells were obtained from mice that had been fed NRIC0380. The T cell-suppressive effect of the cells was analyzed by coculturing the cells with splenocytes of β-lactoglobulin-immunized mice and β-lactoglobulin. The effects of the Treg cells on the IgE production and cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction were then analyzed by transferring the cells into another mouse. Results: The Treg cells obtained from the mice that had been fed NRIC0380 showed similar T cell-suppressive activity to those cells obtained from the control mice. The Treg cells obtained from the mice fed NRIC0380 significantly inhibited the IgE production and active cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction when transferred into another mouse that was subsequently immunized with the antigen. Furthermore, the Treg cells also significantly suppressed the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction when cotransferred with the IgE antibody into another mouse. Conclusions: The induction of Treg cells by the oral administration of NRIC0380 would be involved in the antiallergic activity of NRIC0380.
Functional Extracellular Eosinophil Granules: A Bomb Caught in a Trap
Authors: Muniz Valdirene S. , Baptista-dos-Reis Renata , Neves Josiane S.
Published: October 2013

Eosinophils store a wide range of preformed proteins, including cationic proteins and cytokines, within their morphologically unique granules. Recently, we have demonstrated that cell-free eosinophil granules are functional, independent, secretory organelles and that clusters of cell-free granules are commonly found at tissue sites associated with various pathologic conditions. Cytolytic release of intact eosinophil granules produces extracellular organelles that are fully capable of ligand-elicited, active, secretory responses and are hence able to act as ‘cluster bombs' that amplify the differential secretory properties of eosinophils. Herein, we review recent progress in elucidating the molecular mechanisms involved in the cytolytical release of intact cell-free functional eosinophil granules in a process associated with the liberation of eosinophil DNA traps (nets), a known aspect of the innate response recognized in various immune cells and pathological conditions. We also discuss the importance of clusters of cell-free eosinophil granules trapped in eosinophil DNA nets in disease and speculate on their potential role(s) in immunity as well as compare available data on DNA-releasing neutrophils.
Uterine Rupture in Twin Pregnancy with Normal Fetus and Complete Hydatidiform Mole
Authors: Sánchez-Ferrer María Luisa , Hernández-Martínez Florentina , Machado-Linde Francisco , Ferri Belén , Carbonel Pablo , Nieto-Diaz Anibal
Published: October 2013

We describe a rare case of complete hydatidiform mole with twin live fetus (CHMTF) confirmed by histopathology, flow cytometry and polymerase chain reaction techniques. No malformations were observed, fetal karyotype was normal and β-human chorionic gonadotropin levels were high (>100,000 IU/ml). The patient was informed of the risks and decided to continue with the pregnancy, but at week 15, she had to undergo hysterectomy due to uterine rupture. She subsequently developed persistent trophoblastic disease (PTD) with pulmonary metastases that required treatment with polychemotherapy. Patients with CHMTF should be informed of all known risks, including the considerable risk of PTD, which is similar to or, even higher than that associated with a singleton complete mole. The risk does not appear to be increased by continuing the pregnancy. Because so few series have been published, there is a lack of evidence-based clinical management guidelines. To our knowledge, this is the first report of uterine rupture in CHMTF.
Balloon against Jackhammer Disorder
Authors: Pelletier A.L. , Pospai D. , Merrouche M.
Published: October 2013

We describe a patient with dysphagia. The results of endoscopy, CT scan and echoendoscopy were normal. High-resolution manometry (HRM) showed esogastric junction dysfunction and hypercontractile peristaltic disorder. These HRM abnormalities completely disappeared after pneumatic esophageal dilatation. We discuss the treatment options and recovery of peristalsis after balloon dilatation.
Darexaban (YM150) versus enoxaparin for the prevention of venous thromboembolism after total hip arthroplasty: a randomised phase IIb dose confirmation study (ONYX-3)
Authors: Agnelli Giancarlo , Gallus Alexander S. , Lassen Michael R. , Prins Martin H. , Renfurm Ronny W. , Kashiwa Makoto , Turpie Alexander G. G. , Eriksson Bengt I.
Published: October 2013

This double-blind, double-dummy, randomised, phase IIb study (NCT00902928) evaluated different dosing regimens of darexaban compared with enoxaparin (randomised 1:1:1:1:1 to 15 mg twice daily [bid], 30 mg once daily [qd], 30 mg bid or 60 mg qd or enoxaparin 40 mg qd) in patients undergoing elective total hip arthroplasty. Patients, investigators, pharmacists and sponsor were all blinded to treatment allocation. Darexaban administration started 6-10 hours (h) post-surgery. Enoxaparin 40 mg qd administration started 12 ± 2 h before surgery. Treatment continued for 35 days. Bilateral venography was performed on Day 10 ± 2. The primary efficacy outcome was total VTEs (composite of proximal/distal deep-vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism) or death, at Day 12. Total VTE rates were similar across all groups. There was no apparent difference in efficacy between onceand twice-daily darexaban (odds ratio [OR] 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.71–1.42; p=0.988), or total daily dose (30 mg/day vs 60 mg/day; OR 0.81; 95% CI 0.57–1.15; p=0.244). There was no significant difference in major and/or clinically relevant non-major bleeding between darexaban qd or bid, or between total daily doses of 30 mg or 60 mg, and also for any dosing regimen of darexaban vs enoxaparin. Darexaban was well tolerated, without signs of liver toxicity. In conclusion, darexaban, administered qd or bid, and at total daily doses of 30 mg or 60 mg, appears to be effective for VTE prevention and was well tolerated. Data suggest no significant differences between a once- or twice-daily dosing regimen.
Universal versus platelet reactivity assay-driven use of P2Y12 inhibitors in acute coronary syndrome patients
Authors: Limone Brendan L. , Coleman Craig I.
Published: October 2013

Platelet reactivity assays (PRAs) can predict patients’ likely response to clopidogrel. As ticagrelor and prasugrel are typically considered first-line agents for acute coronary syndrome in Europe, we assessed the cost-effectiveness of universal compared to PRA-driven selection of these agents. A Markov model was used to calculate five-year costs (2013£/€), quality-adjusted life-years and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) for one-year of universal ticagrelor or prasugrel (given to all) compared to each agents’ corresponding PRA-driven strategy (ticagrelor/prasugrel in those with high platelet reactivity [HPR, >208 on the VerifyNow P2Y12 assay], others given generic clopidogrel). We assumed patients had their index event at 65–70 years of age and had a 42.7% incidence of HPR 24–48 hours post-revascularisation. The analysis was conducted from the perspective of six countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and United Kingdom) and used a one-year cycle length. Event data for P2Y12 inhibitors were taken from multinational randomised trials and adjusted using country-specific epidemiologic data. Neither universal ticagrelor nor prasugrel were found to be cost-effective (all ICERs >40,250€ or £36,600/QALY) compared to their corresponding PRA-driven strategies in any of the countries evaluated. Results were sensitive to differences in P2Y12 Inhibitors costs and drug-specific relative risks of major adverse cardiac events. Monte Carlo simulation suggested universal ticagrelor or prasugrel were cost-effective in only 25–44% and 11–17% of 10,000 iterations compared to their respective PRA-driven strategies, when applying a willingness-to-pay threshold = €30,000 or £20,000/QALY. In conclusion, the universal use of newer P2Y12 inhibitors is not likely cost-effective compared to PRA-driven strategies.
Poorer Right Ventricular Systolic Function and Exercise Capacity in Women After Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Sarikouch Samir , Boethig Dietmar , Peters Brigitte , Kropf Siegfried , Dubowy Karl-Otto , Lange Peter , Kuehne Titus , Haverich Axel , Beerbaum Philipp
Published: October 2013

Background—

In repaired congenital heart disease, there is increasing evidence of sex differences in cardiac remodeling, but there is a lack of comparable data for specific congenital heart defects such as in repaired tetralogy of Fallot.

Methods and Results—

In a prospective multicenter study, a cohort of 272 contemporary patients (158 men; mean age, 14.3±3.3 years [range, 8–20 years]) with repaired tetralogy of Fallot underwent cardiac magnetic resonance for ventricular function and metabolic exercise testing. All data were transformed to standard deviation scores according to the Lambda–Mu–Sigma method by relating individual values to their respective 50th percentile (standard deviation score, 0) in sex-specific healthy control subjects. No sex differences were observed in age at repair, type of repair conducted, or overall hemodynamic results. Relative to sex-specific controls, repaired tetralogy of Fallot in women had larger right ventricular end-systolic volumes (standard deviation scores: women, 4.35; men, 3.25;
P
=0.001), lower right ventricular ejection fraction (women, −2.83; men, −2.12;
P
=0.011), lower right ventricular muscle mass (women, 1.58; men 2.45;
P
=0.001), poorer peak oxygen uptake (women, −1.65; men, −1.14;
P
<0.001), higher VE/VCO
2
(ventilation per unit of carbon dioxide production) slopes (women, 0.88; men 0.58;
P
=0.012), and reduced peak heart rate (women, −2.16; men −1.74;
P
=0.017). Left ventricular parameters did not differ between sexes.

Conclusions—

Relative to their respective sex-specific healthy control subjects, derived standard deviation scores in repaired tetralogy of Fallot suggest that women perform poorer than men in terms of right ventricular systolic function as tested by cardiac magnetic resonance and exercise capacity. This effect cannot be explained by selection bias. Further outcome data are required from longitudinal cohort studies.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00266188.
Another Stage in the Redactional History of the Bel Story (Dan 14:1-22): The Evidence of Polemic against Foreign Priests and the Focus on Daniel in the Old Greek
Authors: Trotter Jonathan R.
Published: October 2013

Abstract

It is the contention of this paper that a comparison between the Theodotion and Old Greek versions of the Bel narrative (Dan 14:1-22) gives indications about some specific stages of the textual history of the story. Many of the distinctive elements in the Old Greek story suggest that in its core narrative the Old Greek represents a more thoroughly modified version of the story and even a variant literary edition. In the Old Greek, evidence of the development of the Bel narrative can be seen in its very concentrated focus on (1) the deception of the priests of Bel and (2) the centrality and cunning of Daniel. Both of these emphases in the Old Greek are interconnected and, it will be argued, result in a more pronounced tension between Daniel and the priests of Bel as well as a concentration of control almost exclusively with Daniel in the Old Greek.
Revision of Oxalis section Palmatifoliae DC. (Oxalidaceae)
Authors: LÓPEZ ALICIA , PANSERI ANDREA F. , URTUBEY ESTRELLA
Published: October 2013

A taxonomic revision of Oxalis section Palmatifoliae is presented, together with cluster analyses to clarify the limits of the species. This monophyletic section includes five species endemic from Southern Argentina and Chile. A key for the species, descriptions, illustrations, synonymy, and geographical distribution for each species are also provided. Five lectotypifications and two new synonymies are proposed.
Valid publication of the name Anaphalis hymenolepis (Asteraceae)
Authors: Yu Wen-Bin
Published: October 2013

Anaphalis Candolle (1838: 271), with approximately 110 species, is mainly distributed in tropical and subtropical Asia, but a few species occur also in temperate Asia, Europe, and North America. There are 54 species in China, of which 40 species are endemic (Zhu & Bayer 2011). During checking names validly published in the catalogues of Jin & Chen (1994, 1999, 2007; see Yu et al. 2011), we found that the currently accepted name Anaphalis hymenolepis Y.Ling was not validly published (Chen et al. 1966: 99), because two gatherings, K.T. Fu 1051 (male) and T.P. Wang 5506 (female), were simultaneously indicated as types in the protologue contrary to Articles 40.1 and 40.2 of International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (McNeill et al. 2012). Subsequently, Li (2009: 114) discovered that the name A. hymenolepis was not validly published with two gatherings cited as types; however, he failed to validate this name, because he termed the gathering K. T. Fu 1051 as “Lectotype” contrary to Article 40.6.
The structure and musculature of male terminalia in the tribe Xanthorhoini Pierce and related tribes (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Larentiinae), with particular reference to the Palaearctic and Australian regions
Authors: SCHMIDT OLGA
Published: October 2013

The musculature of the male genitalia was reviewed for the tribe Xanthorhoini and related tribes (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae). The genitalia morphology of males of 11 species was discussed and illustrated, and nine paired and unpaired genital muscles identified. Muscles m1, m2(10), m5(7), m6(5), m7(6), m8(3) and m21 have similar position in all species considered in the paper. Comparative morphology of the male terminalia and position of extensors of the valvae m3(2) and flexors m4 confirmed the previously uncertain separation of Euphyiini and Scotopterygini. Cataclysmini share musculature characters with the tribe Xanthorhoini. The generic affiliation of Xanthorhoe biriviata (Borkhausen) is questionable considering an unusual location of muscles m4. Generally, the places of attachment of the muscles m3(2) and m4 to the sclerites afford valuable characters for the higher classification of this group.
Using an AGCM to Diagnose Historical Effective Radiative Forcing and Mechanisms of Recent Decadal Climate Change
Authors: Andrews Timothy
Published: October 2013

An atmospheric general circulation model is forced with observed monthly sea surface temperature and sea ice boundary conditions, as well as forcing agents that vary in time, for the period 1979–2008. The simulations are then repeated with various forcing agents, individually and in combination, fixed at preindustrial levels. The simple experimental design allows the diagnosis of the model’s global and regional time-varying effective radiative forcing from 1979 to 2008 relative to preindustrial levels. Furthermore the design can be used to (i) calculate the atmospheric model’s feedback/sensitivity parameters to observed changes in sea surface temperature and (ii) separate those aspects of climate change that are directly driven by the forcing from those driven by large-scale changes in sea surface temperature. It is shown that the atmospheric response to increased radiative forcing over the last 3 decades has halved the global precipitation response to surface warming. Trends in sea surface temperature and sea ice are found to contribute only ~60% of the global land, Northern Hemisphere, and summer land warming trends. Global effective radiative forcing is ~1.5 W m−2 in this model, with anthropogenic and natural contributions of ~1.3 and ~0.2 W m−2, respectively. Forcing increases by ~0.5 W m−2 decade−1 over the period 1979–2008 or ~0.4 W m−2 decade−1 if years strongly influenced by volcanic forcings—which are nonlinear with time—are excluded from the trend analysis. Aerosol forcing shows little global decadal trend due to offsetting regional trends whereby negative aerosol forcing weakens in Europe and North America but continues to strengthen in Southeast Asia.
Ventilator Caregiver Education Through the Use of High-Fidelity Pediatric Simulators
Authors: Tofil Nancy M. , Rutledge Chrystal , Zinkan J. Lynn , Youngblood Amber Q. , Stone Julie , Peterson Dawn Taylor , Slayton Donna , Makris Chris , Magruder Terri , White Marjorie Lee
Published: October 2013

Introduction. Home ventilator programs (HVP) have been developed to train parents of critically ill children. Simulators are used in health care, but not often for parents. We added simulation to our HVP and assessed parents’ response. Methods. In July 2008, the HVP at Children’s of Alabama added simulation to parent training. Debriefing was provided after the training session to reinforce correct skills and critical thinking. Follow-up surveys were completed after training. Results. Fifteen families participated. All parents were confident in changing tracheostomies, knowing signs of breathing difficulties, and responding to alarms. 71% strongly agree that simulation resulted in feeling better prepared to care for their child. 86% felt simulation improved their confidence in taking care of their child. Conclusion. Simulators provide a crucial transition between learned skills and application. This novel use of simulation-based education improves parents’ confidence in emergencies and may lead to shortened training resulting in cost savings.
Influences on the knowledge and beliefs of ordinary people about developmental hierarchies
Authors: Binstock Georgina , Thornton Arland , Abbasi-Shavazi Mohammad J , Ghimire Dirgha , Xie Yu , Yount Kathryn M
Published: October 2013

This article is motivated by the idea that development and developmental hierarchies have been constructed and embraced for centuries by scholars and policy makers and have been disseminated among ordinary people. Recent research shows that most people have constructions of development hierarchies that are similar across countries. In this article, we extend this research by examining how basic social factors influence ordinary people’s beliefs about development and developmental hierarchies in six countries: Argentina, China, Egypt, Iran, Nepal, and the United States. Results show that the understanding and perception of developmental hierarchies vary by gender and education. These results are important because they show how distinct groups of people have differential access to information or ideas.
The Impact of Gender and Prepurchase Mood on Consumer Guilt after a Travel Purchase
Authors: Hanks Lydia , Mattila Anna S.
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this study is to add to the literature on consumer financial guilt in hospitality and tourism by exploring the circumstances in which it occurs and investigating antecedents that influence the experience of consumer financial guilt. Using an impulsive travel purchase as the context, this mixed-methods study examined the effects of gender and prepurchase mood on feelings of postpurchase guilt and satisfaction. Qualitative and quantitative results indicated that women were more likely than men to experience consumer guilt following an impulse travel purchase, and that this effect was moderated by prepurchase mood. Hierarchical regression analysis also indicated that consumer financial guilt affected levels of anticipated satisfaction with the purchase, over and above the effect attributed to prepurchase mood and gender.
Institutions, unionization and voice: The relative impact of context and actors on firm level practice
Authors: Brewster Chris , Wood Geoffrey , Goergen Marc
Published: October 2013

Trade unions provide a voice in the way firms are run, an input into reward systems and increased security of employment. But these vary with national context. Using transnational survey evidence, this article explores the relative impact of setting, and of unions and collective bargaining, on these issues. It is found that, irrespective of context, organizations are significantly more likely to make use of compulsory redundancies in the absence of unions and collective bargaining. However, in other areas, the impact of unions appeared less pronounced than that of the wider context. The article explores the reasons behind this, and the broader policy implications thereof.
Evaluating cross-national variations in envelope wage payments in East-Central Europe
Authors: Williams Colin C
Published: October 2013

This article seeks to explain the cross-national variations in the tendency of employers to under-declare salaries by paying formal employees an undeclared (‘envelope’) wage in addition to their official declared salary. Analysing the prevalence, size and nature of envelope wage payments across 10 East-Central European countries using data from a 2007 Eurobarometer survey, envelope wage payments are found to be less common, smaller and more likely to be for extra work in wealthier, less corrupt and more equal nations with higher levels of taxation, social protection and effective redistribution via social transfers. The theoretical and policy implications are then discussed.
Adversity and internalizing problems among rural Chinese adolescents
Authors: Davidson Shannon , Adams Jennifer
Published: October 2013

Throughout the developing world, adolescents living in rural poverty face multiple and inter-related adaptive challenges. Using longitudinal data from the Gansu Survey of Children and Families, we adopt an approach grounded in resilience theory to investigate the relationship between cumulative adversity and internalizing problems among 1,659 adolescents between the ages of 13 and 16 years in an interior Chinese province. We also investigate the compensatory roles of parental warmth and teacher support. Results of multivariate regression models suggest that internalizing problems increased in later adolescence in this sample. The rate of increase did not differ by gender, counter to most extant literature on sex differences in the developmental trajectory of internalizing problems. Along with parental warmth, teacher support emerged as an especially important compensatory factor, highlighting the significance of teachers as an often overlooked resource for poor rural adolescents.
Unusual case of chondroblastic osteosarcoma of the rib in an adult
Authors: Ludhani Prakash Manoharlal , Anathakrishnan Radha , Chandrasekar Padmanabhan , Muralidharan Srinivasan
Published: October 2013

Primary osteosarcoma arising from the ribs is very rare. An unusual case of a primary chondroblastic osteosarcoma of the rib in a 30-year-old woman is described here. The patient underwent wide excision of the tumor along with the involved rib, followed by chemotherapy. Although clinically unsuspected in this unusual site, pathology confirmed a completely resected chondroblastic osteosarcoma.
Being Alongside: Rethinking Relations amongst Different Kinds
Authors: Latimer Joanna
Published: October 2013

This paper broadens out existing challenges to the divisions between the human and the animal that keep humans distinct, and apart, from other animals. Much attention to date has focused on how the Euro-American individuation of the human subject intensifies the asymmetries inculcated by these divisions. This paper rehearses some of this literature but goes on to attend to how these divisions undercut understandings of sociality and limit social organization to interaction between persons. Drawing together debates around the human/animal relation, the paper juxtaposes different perspectives of nature-cultures to bring ‘worlds’ of relations into view. Specifically, I distinguish here between the state of ‘being alongside’ and the process of ‘being-with’. Ranging from approaches that try to settle ideas of difference through appeals to ‘ethical health’, through to work on identity that ‘unconceals’ a wealth of connection, this distinction will help to keep apart those situated moments of relations, where the constituent parts are left more provisional and contingent, from more sought-out relationships, where a sense of togetherness purposefully dominates the conjoining of activities. Contrasting hybridity as a totalizing form of ‘being-with’, with alongsideness, as a form of intermittent and partial connection, the analysis eschews the obfuscation of difference entrenched in contemporary emphasis on connectivity. Proposing instead the importance of creatures as ‘division preserving', the paper theorizes ways to sustain regard for division as well as connection as key to understanding the arts of dwelling amidst different kinds.
Online dating preferences of Asian Americans
Authors: Tsunokai Glenn T. , McGrath Allison R. , Kavanagh Jillian K.
Published: October 2013

This study investigates the inter- and intraracial dating preferences of heterosexual Asian males and females as well as gay Asian males. Using data collected from 1270 Internet dating profiles, logistic regression is employed to examine the odds of one’s willingness to date someone who is Asian, White, Black, Hispanic, and some other race. The findings suggest that heterosexual females and gay males prefer to date Whites over nonwhites. Moreover, respondents from both sexual orientations were less likely to express a preference to date another Asian compared to their heterosexual male counterparts. Our results also reveal that educational attainment influences the willingness among Asians to date a fellow Asian. Finally, the analyses indicate significant differences in dating preferences based on the region of residence and age. The current results are discussed in relation to both the historical and present sociocultural racial climate, focusing on how media depictions and identity formation may play a part in shaping racial dating preferences for Asians.
A new perspective on hooking up among college students
Authors: Manthos Megan , Owen Jesse , Fincham Frank D.
Published: October 2013

Hooking up is a common behavior among young adults. Studies examining predictors of hooking up have yielded mixed results. This prospective study ( N = 339) used latent class regression analysis to identify two distinct groups for which hooking up was predicted differently. In all, 30% of participants accounted for 74% of those reporting hooking up across the entire sample. They reported significantly higher levels of alcohol use and depressive symptoms and lower levels of religiosity compared to participants in the other group. The patterns of predictive variables suggest that some young adults may pursue hooking up as a means of coping with distress, while others may do so as a way to meet attachment needs. These results illustrate that motivational factors for hooking up vary and may manifest in group-defined patterns. Using new methods to analyze hooking up may improve research accuracy and enhance understanding of young adult sexual behavior.
Invasive growth patterns of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma: radiological imaging and clinical implications
Authors: Szymańska Anna , Szymański Marcin , Czekajska-Chehab Elżbieta , Szczerbo-Trojanowska Małgorzata
Published: October 2013

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is a benign lesion with locally aggressive nature. Knowledge of its typical growth patterns is crucial for precise preoperative staging and adequate preoperative patient counseling. This pictorial essay focuses on characteristic radiological features and paths of invasive growth of this rare tumor. Also, the impact of accurate preoperative evaluation of tumor extensions on surgical planning and results of treatment are discussed.
3.0T MRI tractography of lumbar nerve roots in disc herniation
Authors: Chuanting Li , Qingzheng Wang , Wenfeng Xiao , Yiyi Hui , Bin Zhao
Published: October 2013

Background

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) with fiber tracking (FT) has found clinical applications in the evaluation of the central nervous system and has been extensively used to image white matter tract. The feasibility of FT of the lumbar nerve roots in disc herniation is unclear.

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of FT in the lumbar nerve roots, and to assess potential differences in fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of L4, L5, and S1 nerves between healthy disc and disc herniation.

Material and Methods

Twenty patients with unilateral sciatica related to posterolateral or foraminal disc herniation and 20 healthy volunteers were enrolled in our study. Anatomical fusion with the axial T2 sequences was used to estimate the relevance of reconstructions. DTI with tractography of the L4, L5, and S1 nerves was performed. Mean FA and ADC values were calculated from tractography images.

Results

Lumbosacral root compression sites could be clearly identified on the tractography images. There was no significant difference in FA or ADC between left and right nerve roots at the same level ( P > 0.05) in healthy volunteers. The mean FA value of the compressed spinal nerve roots was significantly lower than that of FA of the contralateral nerve roots ( P = 0.0001). ADC was significantly higher in compressed nerve roots than that in the contralateral nerve root ( P = 0.0002).

Conclusion

3 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) DTI and FT of the lumbosacral region nerve is possible. There are significant changes in FA and ADC values in the compressed L4, L5, and S1 nerves.
Common cerebral networks associated with distinct deep brain stimulation targets for cluster headache
Authors: Clelland Claire D , Zheng Zhong , Kim Won , Bari Ausaf , Pouratian Nader
Published: October 2013

Background

Several centers have reported efficacious cluster headache suppression with deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the hypothalamic region using a variety of targets. While the connectivity of some of these targets has individually been studied, commonalities across these targets, especially with respect to network-level connectivity, have not previously been explored.

Methods

We examined the anatomic connectivity of the four distinct DBS targets reported in the literature using probabilistic diffusion tensor tractography in normal subjects.

Results

Despite being described as hypothalamic, the DBS targets localized in the midbrain tegmentum posterior to the hypothalamus. Common tracts across DBS targets and subjects included projections to the ipsilateral hypothalamus, reticular formation, and cerebellum.

Discussion

Although DBS target coordinates are not located within the hypothalamus, a strong connection between DBS targets and the hypothalamus likely exists. Moreover, a common projection to the medial ipsilateral cerebellum was identified. Understanding the common connectivity of DBS-targeted regions may elucidate anatomic pathways that are involved in modulating cluster headache attacks and facilitate more precise patient-specific targeting of DBS.
Power
Authors: Reed Isaac Ariail
Published: October 2013

This article draws on the conceptual link between power and causality to develop an account of the relational, discursive, and performative dimensions of power. Each proposed dimension of power is grounded in a different understanding of social causes: relational-realist, discursive-hermeneutic, and performative-pragmatic. For the purposes of empirical analysis, this dimensional schema crosscuts the classic sources of power typology developed by Michael Mann and others, thus rendering the conceptual apparatus for pursuing sociological research on power more complex and explanatorily effective. The schema is illustrated by an example from comparative-historical sociology: explaining the storming of the Bastille and its effects. A series of research questions for investigating the relative autonomy of performative power is proposed. Finally, the current schema is situated vis-à-vis classic sociological theories of power, including the arguments of Steven Lukes, Michel Foucault, and Pierre Bourdieu, among others.
A Survey of Patients Who Were Referred to Our Palliative Care Division From Other Hospitals and Appeared to Have Obvious Indications for Cancer Chemotherapies
Authors: Hirayama Yasuo , Terui Takeshi , Kusakabe Toshiro , Koike Kazuhiko , Ono Kaoru , Kato Junji , Ishitani Kunihiko
Published: October 2013

Higashi Sapporo Hospital is a cancer-specific hospital with palliative care doctors and certified oncologists. During case conferences held twice a week, we routinely evaluate the referred patients. In our case conferences, we selected patients who were referred to our palliative care division from other hospitals, with possible indications for cancer chemotherapies. We reviewed a total of 1215 patients who were referred to our palliative care division. We identified 18 cases as having indications for cancer chemotherapies. Among them, we identified 4 cases as having indications for standard cancer chemotherapies. All 4 patients tolerated the therapies well, responded to chemotherapy, and survived for more than 1 year. Conferences in which oncologists and palliative care doctors can discuss cases frequently and intimately are thought to be important.
Measuring Student Self-Perceptions of Writing Skills in Programs of Journalism and Mass Communication
Authors: Lingwall Andrew , Kuehn Scott
Published: October 2013

This study explored student self-perceptions of writing skills in journalism and mass communication programs at thirteen public state universities in the mid-Atlantic region. Factor analysis revealed seven sets of perceptions among 860 students. A Media Writing Self-Perception Scale was constructed and found to be reliable. The authors propose using this scale to help craft new instructional approaches. This study addresses implications for faculty members who wish to better understand their students in order to devise more effective writing instruction.