bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Representing Variability in Subgrid Snow Cover and Snow Depth in a Global Land Model: Offline Validation
Authors: Nitta T. , Yoshimura K. , Takata K. , O’ishi R. , Sueyoshi T. , Kanae S. , Oki T. , Abe-Ouchi A. , Liston G. E.
Published: February 2014

Subgrid snow cover is one of the key parameters in global land models since snow cover has large impacts on the surface energy and moisture budgets, and hence the surface temperature. In this study, the Subgrid Snow Distribution (SSNOWD) snow cover parameterization was incorporated into the Minimal Advanced Treatments of Surface Interaction and Runoff (MATSIRO) land surface model. SSNOWD assumes that the subgrid snow water equivalent (SWE) distribution follows a lognormal distribution function, and its parameters are physically derived from geoclimatic information. Two 29-yr global offline simulations, with and without SSNOWD, were performed while forced with the Japanese 25-yr Reanalysis (JRA-25) dataset combined with an observed precipitation dataset. The simulated spatial patterns of mean monthly snow cover fraction were compared with satellite-based Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) observations. The snow cover fraction was improved by the inclusion of SSNOWD, particularly for the accumulation season and/or regions with relatively small amounts of snowfall; snow cover fraction was typically underestimated in the simulation without SSNOWD. In the Northern Hemisphere, the daily snow-covered area was validated using Interactive Multisensor Snow and Ice Mapping System (IMS) snow analysis datasets. In the simulation with SSNOWD, snow-covered area largely agreed with the IMS snow analysis and the seasonal cycle in the Northern Hemisphere was improved. This was because SSNOWD formulates the snow cover fraction differently for the accumulation season and ablation season, and represents the hysteresis of the snow cover fraction between different seasons. The effects of including SSNOWD on hydrological properties and snow mass were also examined.
Laboratory Measurements of Coarse Sediment Bedload Transport Velocity Using a Prototype Wideband Coherent Doppler Profiler (MFDop)
Authors: Stark N. , Hay A. E. , Cheel R. , Zedel L. , Barclay D.
Published: February 2014

A prototype wideband coherent Doppler profiler (MFDop) was tested for measuring bedload velocity of different gravel and coarse-sand-sized fractions (d = 1–32 mm) in the laboratory. The sediment was spread out on a smooth-surface tray, and motion was initiated by tilting the tray at angles of α = 20°–39° from the horizontal. Particle velocities downslope (u), cross slope (υ), and vertical to the tray (w) were determined for different MFDop parameter settings, such as monostatic/bistatic configuration, acoustic beam angle, and pulse length. Video observations of bed particle velocity were made for comparison to the acoustic measurements. Velocities estimated using the MFDop equal to, on average, 71%–74% of the velocities determined using the video observations. Standard deviations ranged from 21% to 35%, including observed irregular motion. Three stages of sediment motion were observed: (i) single particles moving with u ≤ 5 cm s−1, (ii) varying motion of particles and particle groups with predominantly 5 cm s−1 ≤ u ≤ 20 cm s−1, and (iii) fast sheetlike motion with u ≥ 20 cm s−1. The cross-slope velocity υ and the vertical velocity w were significantly smaller than u, hinting at slipping as the major particle motion rather than rolling or saltation. Comparisons between MFDop and video-determined velocities showed good agreement. Standard deviations for the MFDop velocity estimates ranged from 22% to 35%. The trials with different gravelly sediments and coarse sand revealed a significant influence of grain size, as well as grain shape impacting the initiation of sediment transport and transport velocities.
Nonglobal Parameter Estimation Using Local Ensemble Kalman Filtering
Authors: Bellsky Thomas , Berwald Jesse , Mitchell Lewis
Published: February 2014

The authors study parameter estimation for nonglobal parameters in a low-dimensional chaotic model using the local ensemble transform Kalman filter (LETKF). By modifying existing techniques for using observational data to estimate global parameters, they present a methodology whereby spatially varying parameters can be estimated using observations only within a localized region of space. Taking a low-dimensional nonlinear chaotic conceptual model for atmospheric dynamics as a numerical test bed, the authors show that this parameter estimation methodology accurately estimates parameters that vary in both space and time, as well as parameters representing physics absent from the model.
The Problem Is Not Just Sample Size
Authors: Hinkle Joshua C. , Weisburd David , Famega Christine , Ready Justin
Published: February 2014

Background:

Hot spots policing is one of the most influential police innovations, with a strong body of experimental research showing it to be effective in reducing crime and disorder. However, most studies have been conducted in major cities, and we thus know little about whether it is effective in smaller cities, which account for a majority of police agencies. The lack of experimental studies in smaller cities is likely in part due to challenges designing statistically powerful tests in such contexts.

Objectives:

The current article explores the challenges of statistical power and “noise” resulting from low base rates of crime in smaller cities and provides suggestions for future evaluations to overcome these limitations.

Research Design:

Data from a randomized experimental evaluation of broken windows policing in hot spots are used to illustrate the challenges that low base rates present for evaluating hot spots policing programs in smaller cities.

Results:

Analyses show low base rates make it difficult to detect treatment effects. Very large effect sizes would be required to reach sufficient power, and random fluctuations around low base rates make detecting treatment effects difficult, irrespective of power, by masking differences between treatment and control groups.

Conclusions:

Low base rates present strong challenges to researchers attempting to evaluate hot spots policing in smaller cities. As such, base rates must be taken directly into account when designing experimental evaluations. The article offers suggestions for researchers attempting to expand the examination of hot spots policing and other microplace-based interventions to smaller jurisdictions.
Comparison of Radiographic and Anatomic Distal Metatarsal Articular Angle in Cadaver Feet
Authors: Jastifer James R. , Coughlin Michael J. , Schutt Shane , Hirose Christopher , Kennedy Michael , Grebing Brett , Smith Bertil , Cooper Truitt , Golano Pau , Viladot Ramon , Doty Jesse F.
Published: February 2014

Background:

A few studies report correlations between radiographic and anatomic measurements of the distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA). However, little is known about how the DMAA correlates with the hallux valgus angle (HVA) and with anatomic and clinical radiographic measurements.

Methods:

We dissected, measured, and radiographed 39 cadaveric feet for evidence of hallux valgus and the DMAA. We then correlated these values with paired clinical radiographic measurements made by physician evaluators.

Results:

Physician measurement of DMAA and anatomic measurement of DMAA were significantly correlated with a mean r = 0.64 (evaluator range, 0.44-0.66). Pairwise correlation between physician evaluators ranged from r = 0.63 to 0.84. Sixty-six percent of physician-measured DMAAs were within 5 degrees of anatomic DMAA.

Conclusion:

The percentage of radiographic DMAAs that were within 5 degrees of anatomic DMAAs was only 66%. Additionally, the DMAA was increased in the specimens with moderate and severe hallux valgus compared with those with normal or mild hallux valgus angles.

Clinical Relevance:

The DMAA is an important consideration in patients with hallux valgus. While it is less reliable than other radiographic measures, it was correlated to deformity severity in specimen with hallux valgus.
A contact theory for surface tension driven systems
Authors: Sauer Roger A
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a general model description for the contact of surface tension driven systems. The example system of a liquid droplet in contact with a deformable solid substrate is considered. This can be easily modified to consider two liquids or two solids in contact. The surface kinematics, essential to the modeling of surface tension, are described here in curvilinear coordinates. In particular modeling focus are the contact conditions at the contact boundary, where a wetting ridge may develop. It is shown that in the case of quasi-statics and hyperelasticity the governing equations can be derived from a global potential that accounts for contact as well as the energy storage within the bulk and surface domains. Altogether, 21 Euler–Lagrange equations are derived in this manner. Apart from these strong form equations, the governing weak form as well as its complete linearization, which are required for computational methods, are also discussed. It is shown that the governing equations can be further simplified into a reduced set of equations that are then suitable for an efficient computational implementation of the system. Computational solution methods are not discussed here, as the present focus is on the theory and its implications. A few remarks on analytical solutions, as well as a simple computational example, are given nonetheless. An auxiliary benefit of this work is a summary of the variation and linearization of the kinematical and constitutive equations of the system.
Perceptual inference and autistic traits
Authors: Skewes Joshua C , Jegindø Else-Marie , Gebauer Line
Published: February 2014

Autistic people are better at perceiving details. Major theories explain this in terms of bottom-up sensory mechanisms or in terms of top-down cognitive biases. Recently, it has become possible to link these theories within a common framework. This framework assumes that perception is implicit neural inference, combining sensory evidence with prior perceptual knowledge. Within this framework, perceptual differences may occur because of enhanced precision in how sensory evidence is represented or because sensory evidence is weighted much higher than prior perceptual knowledge. In this preliminary study, we compared these models using groups with high and low autistic trait scores (Autism-Spectrum Quotient). We found evidence supporting the cognitive bias model and no evidence for the enhanced sensory precision model.
Professional identities of middle managers
Authors: Thomas-Gregory Annette
Published: February 2014

This article presents and discusses the findings of a recent study on the professional identities of middle managers in a school of healthcare in a selected Chartered (pre-1992) UK university. Attention focuses on the career backgrounds of the middle managers, perception of identity and the interactional balance between the professional, academic and managerial aspects of their role. The study adopted an interpretive approach, in line with social constructivism, exploring their beliefs, feelings and perceptions with regard to their career background, identities and role. The data suggest that this group of middle managers were influenced by a complex array of circumstances and social processes, but also by critical incidents, key people and opportunities. There was evidence of very high levels of job satisfaction, and the respondents gave examples of core personality traits that contributed to their sustained career success. The data portray these middle managers as hybrid characters attempting to juggle multiple identities; however, this identity was being shaped by the university’s strategic vision to be an elite, research-led learning environment. If senior leaders of higher education institutions wish to aspire to excellence in healthcare education it is essential they recruit middle managers who demonstrate a complex interweaving of personal and professional qualities within a context of moral purpose, described in this study as, ‘loving the job’.
Triggers of change to public confidence in the police and criminal justice system: Findings from the Crime Survey for England and Wales panel experiment
Authors: Bradford Ben , Myhill Andy
Published: February 2014

Accounts of public ‘trust and confidence’ in criminal justice agencies often fall into one of two camps. Instrumental accounts suggest that people trust police and the criminal justice system (CJS) when they believe them to be effective in fighting crime and reducing offending. Expressive or affective accounts, by contrast, suggest people place as much or more emphasis on the social meaning of justice institutions as on their instrumental activities. In this article we add to recent studies that have sought to weigh up the balance between instrumental and expressive factors. Using data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales panel experiment, we present evidence that trust in police and the wider CJS is implicated in public concerns about the nature of local order and cohesion. The expressive account appears to offer a better understanding of why people may grant trust to, or withdraw trust from, the police and the CJS.
Giant Cell Tumor of the Distal Phalanx of the Great Toe
Authors: Dellenbaugh Samuel G. , Wilkinson Lee , Aydogan Umur
Published: February 2014

Giant cell tumors are rarely seen in the foot. They can cause a significant amount of pain and deformity due to their aggressive and recurrent nature. We present the unusual case of a giant cell tumor of the distal phalanx of the hallux in a 39-year-old man.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV, Case Report
Patient Perception of Whether an HIV Test Was Provided during the Emergency Department Encounter
Authors: Khakoo Naushad M. , Lindsell Christopher J. , Hart Kimberly W. , Ruffner Andrew H. , Wayne D. Beth , Lyons Michael S.
Published: February 2014

This cross-sectional study approached emergency department (ED) patients after the treating physician’s disposition decision to measure patient understanding of whether or not they had received an HIV test during their ED encounter. Of the 300 respondents, 24 were excluded due to missing data or because they had received an ED HIV test. Mean age was 41 years, 51% were men, 61% were black, and 29% had no high school degree. There were 5.8% (95% confidence interval: 3.5%-9.4%) who erroneously reported HIV test delivery during their ED course. Our results suggest a small but significant minority of patients falsely assume that they have been tested for HIV during their ED visit. This misperception could have broad implications, leading to less frequent subsequent testing, false reassurance of HIV-negative status, and inaccuracies in surveillance estimates or surveys that depend on self-report.
Concomitant Use of Carbamazepine and Rifampin in a Patient With Mycobacterium avium Complex and Seizure Disorder
Authors: Egelund Eric F. , Mohamed MohamedEslam F. , Fennelly Kevin P. , Peloquin Charles A.
Published: February 2014

Objectives. To report a probable interaction between rifampin and carbamazepine, likely leading to a seizure, and to review conflicting reports regarding this interaction. Case Summary. A 55-year-old female was treated with carbamazepine 200 mg 3 times daily for grand mal seizures, with excellent control. A 6-hour postdose carbamazepine concentration was 10.7 µg/mL (therapeutic range = 4-10 µg/mL). After she was diagnosed with pulmonary Mycobacterium avium complex, she received rifampin 300 mg twice daily, ethambutol 800 mg daily, and clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily. At first clinic visit, rifampin was changed to 600 mg daily, and clarithromycin was replaced with azithromycin 250 mg daily. A 4-hour postdose carbamazepine concentration was 7.1 µg/mL. Two weeks later, the patient experienced a seizure (no carbamazepine concentration reported at that time), but admitted to missing doses of carbamazepine. After experiencing 2 more seizures, the patient stopped taking rifampin. Subsequently, the carbamazepine dose was increased to 400 mg twice daily and rifampin was restarted at 600 mg daily. Two follow-up peak carbamazepine concentrations were 4.7 µg/mL and 4.4 µg/mL, with no reported seizures. No additional factors were identified as potential causes of the seizures or the lower carbamazepine concentrations. A Drug Interaction Probability Scale score of 6 indicates a probable interaction. Discussion. Conflicting reports exist regarding the effect of rifampin on carbamazepine concentrations, likely reflecting rifampin’s ability to display time-dependent, mixed effects on transporters and cytochrome P450 enzymes. Conclusions. Our case report describes a patient who experienced seizures after the addition of rifampin to her regimen, followed by lower peak concentrations of carbamazepine. Therapeutic drug monitoring in patients receiving both rifampin and carbamazepine is recommended to help clinicians optimize drug therapy.
The polyphony of BACH2
Authors: Dave Sandeep S.
Published: February 2014

In this issue of Blood, Huang and colleagues examine the role of BACH2, a transcription factor known to be expressed highly in germinal center B cells.1-3
A new approach to "Equation missing"-contractive nonself multivalued mappings
Authors: Ali Muhammad Usman , Kamran Tayyab , Karapınar Erdal
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we introduce the notions ofα-admissible andα-ψ-contractive type condition for nonself multivalued mappings. We establish fixed point theorems using these new notions along with a new condition. Moreover, we have constructed examples to show that our new condition is different from the corresponding existing conditions in the literature.

MSC:47H10, 54H25.
Release of CGRP from mouse brainstem slices indicates central inhibitory effect of triptans and kynurenate
Authors: Kageneck Charlotte , Nixdorf-Bergweiler Barbara E , Messlinger Karl , Fischer Michael JM
Published: February 2014

Background

CGRP is contained in a substantial proportion of unmyelinated trigeminal neurons innervating intracranial tissues. Previously, we have described a hemisected rodent scull preparation and later the intact trigeminal ganglion to measure stimulated CGRP release from trigeminal afferents.

Methods

Here, we establish a preparation for examining CGRP release from central trigeminal terminals using single fresh slices of the mouse medullary brainstem.

Results

Basal and stimulated amount of CGRP substantially exceeded the detection level. Experiments were designed as matched pairs of at least six brainstem slices per animal. Stimulation with high potassium induced calcium-dependent and reversible CGRP release. Capsaicin stimulation of TRPV1 provoked concentration-dependent CGRP release. The anti-migraine drug naratriptan did not inhibit capsaicin-induced CGRP release from peripheral terminals but inhibited the release from brainstem slices. The glutamate antagonist kynurenate showed a similar pattern of site-specific inhibition of CGRP release.

Conclusions

As observed earlier for other drugs used in the treatment of migraine this indicates that the central terminals in the spinal trigeminal nucleus may be the main site of action. The preparation allows evaluating the trigeminal brainstem as a pharmacological site of action.
Characterisation and expression profile of the bovine cathelicidin gene repertoire in mammary tissue
Authors: Whelehan Cormac J , Barry-Reidy Anne , Meade Kieran G , Eckersall P David , Chapwanya Aspinas , Narciandi Fernando , Lloyd Andrew T , O’Farrelly Cliona
Published: February 2014

Background

Cathelicidins comprise a major group of host-defence peptides. Conserved across a wide range of species, they have several functions related to host defence. Only one cathelicidin has been found in humans but several cathelicidin genes occur in the bovine genome. We propose that these molecules may have a protective role against mastitis. The aim of this study was to characterise the cathelicidin gene-cluster in the bovine genome and to identify sites of expression in the bovine mammary gland.

Results

Bioinformatic analysis of the bovine genome (BosTau7) revealed seven protein-coding cathelicidin genes,CATHL1-7, including two identical copies ofCATHL4,as well as three additional putative cathelicidin genes, all clustered on the long arm of chromosome 22. Six of the seven protein-coding genes were expressed in leukocytes extracted from milk of high somatic cell count (SCC) cows.CATHL5was expressed across several sites in the mammary gland, but did not increase in response toStaphylococcus aureusinfection.

Conclusions

Here, we characterise the bovine cathelicidin gene cluster and reconcile inconsistencies in the datasets of previous studies. Constitutive cathelicidin expression in the mammary gland suggests a possible role for these host defence peptides its protection.
Triggering change in diabetes care delivery in general practice: a qualitative evaluation approach using the clinical microsystem framework
Authors: Janamian Tina , Crossland Lisa J , Jackson Claire , Morcom Jenny
Published: February 2014

Background

In 2008, the Sunshine Coast Division of General Practice (SCDGP) in Queensland, Australia initiated a highly successful Improved Diabetes Management (IDM) program with general practices in a regional area. The IDM program was evaluated against the 10 elements of a high functioning clinical microsystem framework as identified by Nelson et al. (2007) in order to determine key factors contributing to the successful adoption and uptake of the program in participating general practices.

Methods

The evaluation focussed on in-depth key informant interviews with 10 SCDGP staff and general practitioners (GPs) involved in the IDM program. A thematic analysis was undertaken and common emergent themes were reviewed against the 10 elements of high performing clinical microsystem.

Results

While all aspects of the clinical microsystem approach appeared effective in the design, implementation and adoption of the IDM program, several characteristics were crucial. The identification of champions of change in both the division and participating practices, the celebration of positive achievements and the use ‘real data’ from practices to demonstrate improved health outcomes for patients from the practice were instrumental in motivating participating GPs to both implement and sustain changes in their diabetes care delivery.

Conclusion

In designing and redesigning health care, the clinical microsystems approach offers a pathway for the effective uptake of innovation in Australian primary health care; a means of integrating structure, process and outcomes of a care framework for reviewing improvements in the health care delivery process and could lead to improvements in patient health outcomes.
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome/human immunodeficiency virus knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and use of healthcare services among rural migrants: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Wang Ying , Cochran Christopher , Xu Peng , Shen Jay J , Zeng Gang , Xu Yanjun , Sun Mei , Li Chengyue , Li Xiaohong , Chang Fengshui , Lu Jun , Hao Mo , Lu Fan
Published: February 2014

Background

Today’s rapid growth of migrant populations has been a major contributor to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. However, relatively few studies have focused on HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related knowledge, attitudes, and practice among rural-to-urban migrants in China. This cross-sectional study was to assess HIV/AIDS-related knowledge and perceptions, including knowledge about reducing high-risk sex.

Methods

Two-phase stratified cluster sampling was applied and 2,753 rural migrants participated in this study. An anonymous self-administered questionnaire was conducted in Guangdong and Sichuan provinces in 2007. Descriptive analysis was used to present the essential characteristics of the respondents. Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression models were performed to examine the associations between identified demographic factors and high-risk sex, sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms, and access to HIV screening services among the seven types of workers.

Results

58.6% of participants were knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS transmission, but approximately 90% had a negative attitude towards the AIDS patients, and that 6.2% had engaged in high-risk sex in the past 12 months. Logistic regression analysis revealed sex, marital status, income, migration and work experience to be associated with high-risk sex. Among the 13.9% of workers who reported having STD symptoms, risk factors that were identified included female gender, high monthly income, being married, daily laborer or entertainment worker, frequent migration, and length of work experience. Only 3% of migrant workers received voluntary free HIV screening, which was positively associated with monthly income and workplace.

Conclusions

HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes, and practices among rural migrants in China remain a thorny health issue, and use of healthcare services needs to be improved. Low levels of education and knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS among housekeepers and migrant day laborers result in this population likely being engaged in high-risk sex. Government programs should pay more attention to public education, health promotion and intervention for the control of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in China.
An overview on the Prus-Szczepanik condition
Authors: Hernández-Linares Carlos A , Llorens-Fuster Enrique , Mazcuñán-Navarro Eva M , Muñiz-Pérez Omar
Published: February 2014

In 2005 Prus and Sczcepanik introduced a large class of Banach spaces with the fixed point property for nonexpansive mappings. We say that this class satisfies the PSz condition. Checking that a given Banach space belongs to this class is not an easy task. Here we study the relationship between the PSz condition and other well-known geometrical properties of Banach spaces, and we give easier sufficient conditions for a Banach space to satisfy it.
Experimental methacrylate-based primers to improve the repair bond strength of dental composites – a preliminary study
Authors: Valente Lisia L , Münchow Eliseu A , Silva Manuela F , Manso Isabella S , Moraes Rafael R
Published: February 2014

In this study, experimental resin-based primers with varying concentrations of acidic methacrylate were formulated and tested as to their potential in improving the repair bond strength of an aged dental composite resin. The photocurable primers contained (wt%) methacrylate monomers (20-60%), acidic methacrylate (0-40%), silane coupling agent (10%), and ethanol (30%). The pH of the solutions varied between 4.8 and 0.31. The degree of C = C conversion of the primers, measured using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, varied between 22% and 42%, with a linear decrease in conversion associated with increased concentration of acidic methacrylate (R2 = 0.961; p < 0.01). Composite resin blocks aged using 1000 thermalcycles served as substrate for the repair bond strength test. The primers were vigorously applied to the composite surfaces and a silicone mold with cylindrical orifices was placed onto the surface. The orifices were filled with fresh composite resin (simulating the repair). In the control group, no primer was applied. A shear bond test was conducted after 24 h (n = 16 per group). Failure modes were classified under magnification. Data were statistically analyzed at p < 0.05. Repair bond strength values varied between 7.2 and 26.5 MPa. The control group had lower bonding ability than all primed groups. The increased content of acidic methacrylate had no significant association with bond strengths. In the control group only interfacial failures were detected, whereas cohesive failures within the aged composite were observed in the primed groups. In conclusion, application of methacrylate-based primers might improve the repair bond strength of dental composite resins. The concentration of acidic methacrylate on the primer had no significant effect on the immediate repair potential.
Hypercapnia attenuates ventilator-induced diaphragm atrophy and modulates dysfunction
Authors: Schellekens Willem-Jan M , van Hees Hieronymus WH , Kox Matthijs , Linkels Marianne , Acuña Gilberto L Andrade , Dekhuijzen PN Richard , Scheffer Gert Jan , van der Hoeven Johannes G , Heunks Leo MA
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Diaphragm weakness induced by prolonged mechanical ventilation may contribute to difficult weaning from the ventilator. Hypercapnia is an accepted side effect of low tidal volume mechanical ventilation, but the effects of hypercapnia on respiratory muscle function are largely unknown. The present study investigated the effect of hypercapnia on ventilator-induced diaphragm inflammation, atrophy and function.

Methods

Male Wistar rats (n = 10 per group) were unventilated (CON), mechanically ventilated for 18 hours without (MV) or with hypercapnia (MV + H, Fico2 = 0.05). Diaphragm muscle was excised for structural, biochemical and functional analyses.

Results

Myosin concentration in the diaphragm was decreased in MV versus CON, but not in MV + H versus CON. MV reduced diaphragm force by approximately 22% compared with CON. The force-generating capacity of diaphragm fibers from MV + H rats was approximately 14% lower compared with CON. Inflammatory cytokines were elevated in the diaphragm of MV rats, but not in the MV + H group. Diaphragm proteasome activity did not significantly differ between MV and CON. However, proteasome activity in the diaphragm of MV + H was significantly lower compared with CON. LC3B-II a marker of lysosomal autophagy was increased in both MV and MV + H. Incubation of MV + H diaphragm muscle fibers with the antioxidant dithiothreitol restored force generation of diaphragm fibers.

Conclusions

Hypercapnia partly protects the diaphragm against adverse effects of mechanical ventilation.
The application of seismic attributes for reservoir characterization in Pre-Tertiary fractured basement, Vietnam-Malaysia offshore
Authors: Ngoc Nguyen Huy , Aziz Sahalan B. , Duc Nguyen Anh
Published: February 2014

The Pre-Tertiary fractured basement forms important hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs in the Vietnam-Malaysia offshore area, and is being produced from such reservoirs in Vietnam where the authors have extensive working experiences for both clastics and fractured basement reservoirs and in both exploration and development phases. Due to their very small matrix porosity, the basement rocks become reservoirs only when they are strongly fractured. The quality of the fractured basement reservoirs depends on basement rock type, fracture density, and fracture characteristics including aperture, azimuth, dip, continuity, and fracture system intersection. Three-dimensional seismic data is applied widely to characterize these basement reservoirs. Based on results from applying many different seismic attributes to 3D seismic data from different Pre-Tertiary fractured basements in Vietnam and Malaysia, we demonstrate the utility of attributes in characterizing fractured basement reservoirs. Seismic attributes help predict the basement rock type and fracture characteristics from near top basement to deep inside basement. In the zone near the top of basement, the characteristics of fracture systems can be predicted by amplitude, coherence, curvature, and secondary derivative attributes. Deep inside the basement, relative acoustic impedance and its attributes have been successfully applied to predict the distribution of high fracture density, while dip and azimuth, ant-tracking, and gradient magnitude attributes have proven to be effective for predicting fracture characteristics. The accuracy of fracture characterization based on seismic attributes has been verified by drilling results.
Ontogeny, conservation and functional significance of maternally inherited DNA methylation at two classes of non-imprinted genes
Authors: Rutledge Charlotte E. , Thakur Avinash , O’Neill Karla M. , Irwin Rachelle E. , Sato Shun , Hata Ken , Walsh Colum P.
Published: February 2014

A functional role for DNA methylation has been well-established at imprinted loci, which inherit methylation uniparentally, most commonly from the mother via the oocyte. Many CpG islands not associated with imprinting also inherit methylation from the oocyte, although the functional significance of this, and the common features of the genes affected, are unclear. We identify two major subclasses of genes associated with these gametic differentially methylated regions (gDMRs), namely those important for brain and for testis function. The gDMRs at these genes retain the methylation acquired in the oocyte through preimplantation development, but become fully methylated postimplantation by de novo methylation of the paternal allele. Each gene class displays unique features, with the gDMR located at the promoter of the testis genes but intragenically for the brain genes. Significantly, demethylation using knockout, knockdown or pharmacological approaches in mouse stem cells and fibroblasts resulted in transcriptional derepression of the testis genes, indicating that they may be affected by environmental exposures, in either mother or offspring, that cause demethylation. Features of the brain gene group suggest that they might represent a pool from which many imprinted genes have evolved. The locations of the gDMRs, as well as methylation levels and repression effects, were also conserved in human cells.
Scube2 enhances proteolytic Shh processing from the surface of Shh-producing cells
Authors: Jakobs Petra , Exner Sebastian , Schürmann Sabine , Pickhinke Ute , Bandari Shyam , Ortmann Corinna , Kupich Sabine , Schulz Philipp , Hansen Uwe , Seidler Daniela G. , Grobe Kay
Published: February 2014

All morphogens of the Hedgehog (Hh) family are synthesized as dual-lipidated proteins, which results in their firm attachment to the surface of the cell in which they were produced. Thus, Hh release into the extracellular space requires accessory protein activities. We suggested previously that the proteolytic removal of N- and C-terminal lipidated peptides (shedding) could be one such activity. More recently, the secreted glycoprotein Scube2 (signal peptide, cubulin domain, epidermal-growth-factor-like protein 2) was also implicated in the release of Shh from the cell membrane. This activity strictly depended on the CUB domains of Scube2, which derive their name from the complement serine proteases and from bone morphogenetic protein-1/tolloid metalloproteinases (C1r/C1s, Uegf and Bmp1). CUB domains function as regulators of proteolytic activity in these proteins. This suggested that sheddases and Scube2 might cooperate in Shh release. Here, we confirm that sheddases and Scube2 act cooperatively to increase the pool of soluble bioactive Shh, and that Scube2-dependent morphogen release is unequivocally linked to the proteolytic processing of lipidated Shh termini, resulting in truncated soluble Shh. Thus, Scube2 proteins act as protease enhancers in this setting, revealing newly identified Scube2 functions in Hh signaling regulation.
Fluctuation of Rac1 activity is associated with the phenotypic and transcriptional heterogeneity of glioma cells
Authors: Yukinaga Hiroko , Shionyu Clara , Hirata Eishu , Ui-Tei Kumiko , Nagashima Takeshi , Kondo Shinji , Okada-Hatakeyama Mariko , Naoki Honda , Matsuda Michiyuki
Published: February 2014

Phenotypic heterogeneity of cancer cells is caused not only by genetic and epigenetic alterations but also by stochastic variation of intracellular signaling molecules. Using cells that stably express Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensors, we show here a correlation between a temporal fluctuation in the activity of Rac1 and the invasive properties of C6 glioma cells. By using long-term time-lapse imaging, we found that Rac1 activity in C6 glioma cells fluctuated over a timescale that was substantially longer than that of the replication cycle. Because the relative level of Rac1 activity in each cell was unaffected by a suspension–adhesion procedure, we were able to sort C6 glioma cells according to the levels of Rac1 activity, yielding Rac1high and Rac1low cells. The Rac1high cells invaded more efficiently than did Rac1low cells in a Matrigel invasion assay. We assessed the transcriptional profiles of Rac1high and Rac1low cells and performed gene ontology analysis. Among the 14 genes that were most associated with the term ‘membrane’ (membrane-related genes) in Rac1high cells, we identified four genes that were associated with glioma invasion and Rac1 activity by using siRNA knockdown experiments. Among the transcription factors upregulated in Rac1high cells, Egr2 was found to positively regulate expression of the four membrane-related invasion-associated genes. The identified signaling network might cause the fluctuations in Rac1 activity and the heterogeneity in the invasive capacity of glioma cells.
CIIA negatively regulates the Ras–Erk1/2 signaling pathway through inhibiting the Ras-specific GEF activity of SOS1
Authors: Hwang Hyun Sub , Hwang Sang Gil , Yoon Kyoung-Wan , Yoon Je-Hyun , Roh Kyung-Hye , Choi Eui-Ju
Published: February 2014

Son of sevenless 1 (SOS1) is a Ras-specific guanine-nucleotide-exchange factor (GEF) that mediates intracellular signaling processes induced by receptor tyrosine kinases. In this study, we show that CIIA (also known as VPS28) physically associates with SOS1 and thereby inhibits the GEF activity of SOS1 on Ras, which prevents the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced activation of the Ras–Erk1/2 pathway. Furthermore, CIIA inhibited cyclin D1 expression, as well as DNA, synthesis in response to EGF. Intriguingly, CIIA failed to inhibit the Ras-specific GEF activity of Noonan-syndrome-associated SOS1 mutants (M269R, R552G, W729L and E846K). Taken together, our results suggest that CIIA functions as a negative modulator of the SOS1–Ras signaling events initiated by peptide growth factors including EGF.
CKMT1 regulates the mitochondrial permeability transition pore in a process that provides evidence for alternative forms of the complex
Authors: Datler Christoph , Pazarentzos Evangelos , Mahul-Mellier Anne-Laure , Chaisaklert Wanwisa , Hwang Ming-Shih , Osborne Foy , Grimm Stefan
Published: February 2014

The permeability transition pore (PT-pore) mediates cell death through the dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Because the exact composition of the PT-pore is controversial, it is crucial to investigate the actual molecular constituents and regulators of this complex. We found that mitochondrial creatine kinase-1 (CKMT1) is a universal and functionally necessary gatekeeper of the PT-pore, as its depletion induces mitochondrial depolarization and apoptotic cell death. This can be inhibited efficiently by bongkrekic acid, a compound that is widely used to inhibit the PT-pore. However, when the ‘classical’ PT-pore subunits cyclophilin D and VDAC1 are pharmacologically inhibited or their expression levels reduced, mitochondrial depolarization by CKMT1 depletion remains unaffected. At later stages of drug-induced apoptosis, CKMT1 levels are reduced, suggesting that CKMT1 downregulation acts to reinforce the commitment of cells to apoptosis. A novel high-molecular-mass CKMT1 complex that is distinct from the known CKMT1 octamer disintegrates upon treatment with cytotoxic drugs, concomitant with mitochondrial depolarization. Our study provides evidence that CKMT1 is a key regulator of the PT-pore through a complex that is distinct from the classical PT-pore.
Oncogenic K-Ras suppresses IP3-dependent Ca2+ release through remodeling of IP3Rs isoform composition and ER luminal Ca2+ levels in colorectal cancer cell lines
Authors: Pierro Cristina , Cook Simon J. , Foets Thomas C. F. , Bootman Martin D. , Roderick H. Llewelyn
Published: February 2014

The GTPase Ras is a molecular switch engaged downstream of G-protein coupled receptors and receptor tyrosine kinases that controls multiple cell fate-determining signalling pathways. Ras signalling is frequently deregulated in cancer underlying associated changes in cell phenotype. Although Ca2+ signalling pathways control some overlapping functions with Ras, and altered Ca2+ signalling pathways are emerging as important players in oncogenic transformation, how Ca2+ signalling is remodelled during transformation and whether it has a causal role remains unclear. We have investigated Ca2+ signalling in two human colorectal cancer cell lines and their isogenic derivatives in which the mutated K-Ras allele (G13D) has been deleted by homologous recombination. We show that agonist-induced Ca2+ release from intracellular stores is enhanced by loss of K-RasG13D through an increase in the ER store content and a modification of IP3R subtype abundance. Consistently, uptake of Ca2+ into mitochondria and sensitivity to apoptosis was enhanced as a result of K-RasG13D loss. These results suggest that suppression of Ca2+ signalling is a common response to naturally occurring levels of K-RasG13D that contributes to a survival advantage during oncogenic transformation.
Dynamic Properties of Water Confined in Sephadex G15 Gel by Quasi-Elastic Neutron Scattering and Neutron Spin Echo Measurements
Authors: Ito Kanae , Yoshida Koji , Bellissent-Funel Marie-Claire , Yamaguchi Toshio
Published: February 2014

The dynamic properties of water confined in Sephadex G15 gel were investigated over the temperature range of 275–320 K at a hydration level h (= mass of water/mass of dry G15 gel) of 0.38, where both bound water melting at 258–268 K and unfrozen water are present, by using quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) and neutron spin echo (NSE) techniques. The QENS data showed that, at 290 K, the water molecules perform local motions characterized by a diffusion coefficient Dlocal of (0.65 ± 0.05) × 10−5 cm2 s−1 and that the diffusion is limited to some volume estimated as a sphere with a radius of 4.4 Å. The Arrhenius plots of the relaxation time of water gave the activation energy of 44.2 ± 1.5 kJ mol−1, which is somewhat larger than the value (15–36 kJ mol−1) of water confined in MCM-41 C10 (pore diameter 21 Å). This finding suggests that water molecules in G15 gel are strongly bound to the hydroxy groups of the crosslinked substrates.
Low Resistivity Composite Catalyst for Hybrid Gas Purifier with DC Corona Discharge
Authors: Su Penghao , Zhu Yimin , Hou Chunyan , Liu Yingjie
Published: February 2014

To make titanium tin oxide (TTO) adapted to serve as a catalyst as well as a ground electrode in a DC corona discharge gas purifier, indium tin oxide (ITO) with low resistivity was composited with TTO via the sol–gel method. The resistivity of TTO–ITO composite was reduced to ca. 5 from ca. 104 Ω cm of TTO. The discharge characteristics and the purification performance were promoted by the reduction of resistivity. There was no difference between TTO–ITO and TTO in valence states or crystal phases. We deduced that the hybrid purification mechanism of purifier TTO–ITO was plasma catalysis driven by electrons.
The saphenofemoral junction in ultrasound
Authors: Mendoza E.
Published: February 2014

Die Untersuchung der Mündung der V. saphena magna in der Leiste in die tiefe Beinvene ist einer der Kernbestandteile der phlebologischen Duplexsonographie. Die Mündungs -varianten der Venensternseitenäste sind vielfältig, ebenso die möglichen Refluxquellen in Abhängigkeit der Kompetenz der beiden Klappen im Mündungsbereich der terminalen Klappe unmittelbar am Übergang zur tiefen Beinvene und der präterminalen Klappe distal des Venensterns. Die Duplexsonographie bietet die Möglichkeit, den Fluss in jeder dieser Venen einzeln darzustellen und ihr Zusammenspiel zu analysieren. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden die verschiedenen Einteilungen der Mündungsinsuffizienz zusammengestellt und schematisch vorgestellt und an-hand der duplexsonographischen Bilder erläutert.
Efficacy and safety of a new pneumatic compression device for peripheral arterial disease with intermittent claudication
Authors: Zelikovski A. , Loberman Z. , Rauh G. , Breu F. X.
Published: February 2014

Background: The primary objective of the study was to demonstrate that Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) with the new ANGIO PRESS™ IPC device can significantly improve the walking distance, i.e. pain free initial intermittent claudication distance (ICD) and the absolute claudication distance (ACD) in patients with stage II peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD) compared to control treatment.

Patients and methods: A total of 67 patients were screened and randomized into the study in four clinical centers based in Israel and Germany. Patients were randomized to one of the two study groups: 1. Medication treatment with ASS / Clopidogrel and standardized walking exercise with additional IPC treatment, two times per day for 1.5 hours for three months. 2. Medication treatment and standardized walking exercise alone. The safety and efficacy of the ANGIO PRESS™ device was determined for the treatment of symptoms of PAD Fontaine stage IIb by measuring the pain free walking distance, the absolute walking distance, the ankle-brachial-index (ABI) and the walking pain. Additionally the quality of life (QOL) of each subject was assessed according to the SF-36 questionnaire. Subjects were followed up at six weeks and 3 months.

Results: No statistical differences were observed in any of the demographic characteristics and baseline scores. A significant difference was found between the treatment and control group in the ACD and the walking pain scale. Subjects in the treatment group improved their total walking distance in 54 meters, an improvement of 40% compared to their baseline distance. The walking pain improved by 1.89 points in the treatment group. Despite the fact that the difference in the ICD between the study groups were not found significantly different, the mean change from baseline in ICD score at the three month visit in the treatment group of 37 m was found statistically significant (p=0.0002), whereas the mean change of 20.7 m in the control group was not found significantly different. No changes were found between the study groups in the ABI and the QOL. The treatment was easy to tolerate and most patients suffered no side-effects, nor complained of any significant discomfort. Two subjects suffered from SAEs which were determined as not related to the study treatment.

Conclusion: The ANGIO PRESS™ is a non-invasive, easy to use, home treatment which is safe and moderately effective for the treatment of intermittent claudication. The ability of subjects to improve their absolute walking distance and reduce the walking pain on the same time may offer a significant value for patients at early stages of PAD who are not indicated for an invasive treatment.
Canonical Barriers on Convex Cones
Authors: Hildebrand Roland
Published: February 2014

On the interior of a regular convex cone K in n-dimensional real space there exist two canonical Hessian metrics, the one generated by the logarithm of the characteristic function, and the Cheng-Yau metric. The former is associated with a self-concordant logarithmically homogeneous barrier on K, the universal barrier. It is invariant with respect to the unimodular automorphism subgroup of K and is compatible with the operation of taking product cones, but in general it does not behave well under duality. Here we introduce a barrier associated with the Cheng-Yau metric, the canonical barrier. It shares with the universal barrier the invariance, existence, and uniqueness properties and is compatible with the operation of taking product cones, but in addition is well behaved under duality. The canonical barrier can be characterized as the convex solution of the partial differential equation log det F” = 2F that tends to infinity as the argument tends to the boundary of K. Its barrier parameter does not exceed the dimension n of the cone. On homogeneous cones both barriers essentially coincide.