bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin-9 and T helper type 9 cells in rheumatic diseases
Authors: Ciccia F , Guggino G , Ferrante A , Cipriani P , Giacomelli R , Triolo G
Published: May 2016

Interleukin (IL)-9 is a 28-30 kDa monomeric glycosylated polypeptide belonging to the IL-7/IL-9 family of proteins that bind to a composite receptor consisting of the private receptor IL-9R and the IL-2 receptor, gamma (IL-2RG), a common gamma subunit shared by the receptors of many different cytokines. The IL-9R is expressed widely and IL-9 impacts a number of effector cells, such as effector T cells, B cells, innate lymphoid cells, mast cells, polymorphonuclear cells, epithelial cells and smooth muscle cells, playing an important role in regulating inflammatory immunity. The critical role of IL-9 in promoting cellular and humoral immune responses makes it an important focus of potential therapeutic interventions. Recently, a defined subset of T helper type cells, Th9 cells, has been identified by the potent production of IL-9. The involvement of the Th9 cell subset has been described in many types of inflammatory diseases, namely atopic diseases, helminth infections, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and ulcerative colitis. In this review, we summarize the IL-9 biological activities, highlighting roles for IL-9 and Th9 cells in rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, systemic vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis.
Neuroinflammation in motor neuron disease
Authors: Endo Fumito , Komine Okiru , Yamanaka Koji
Published: May 2016

Neuroinflammation, which is characterized by activated microglia, astrocytes, infiltrating immune cells and the subsequent production of inflammatory mediators, is linked to a pathological process common to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Furthermore, increasing evidence suggests that activated glial cells and immune cells surrounding motor neurons also contribute to the non‐cell autonomous neurodegeneration through neuroinflammation mediated by these non‐neuronal cells. As activated microglia can produce pro‐inflammatory cytokines and other neurotoxic or protective molecules under the control of infiltrated T cells and astrocytes, neuroinflammation includes both the detrimental and beneficial effects on motor neurons. Activated astrocytes also have an important role in neuroinflammation in ALS by interfering with the beneficial effects of neuroinflammation partly by transforming growth factor‐β1. In the peripheral blood of ALS patients, CD4+ T cells might have a tendency to polarize toward pro‐inflammatory type 1 T helper cells, and regulatory T cells are decreased during disease progression in ALS. Many ongoing clinical trials for ALS targeting neuroinflammation, together with a further understanding of the role of neuroinflammation in disease, will lead to the development of novel therapeutics for ALS.
A Long Time Gone: Post‐conflict Rural Property Restitution under Customary Law
Authors: Joireman Sandra F. , Meitzner Yoder Laura S.
Published: May 2016

Mass displacement of people due to violence poses a unique set of challenges for property restitution when people return to their homes after a long absence. This is particularly evident in rural areas where the dominant form of land holding is customary tenure. Violence‐induced displacement, unlike voluntary migration, challenges both customary and public legal‐administrative structures. The lack of written documentation of customary holdings and the importance of the support of community leaders means that incorporating returnees back into a community can be easier for those who choose to return, while reclaiming property without physical return is nearly impossible. This article seeks to make three contributions: 1) to note the diversity of return processes after long displacements in terms of timing and demographics; 2) to demonstrate that the nature of the claims people can make on customary tenure systems is at odds with international legal norms on property restitution after displacement; and 3) to introduce a set of observations and questions on how conflict can change customary law. The article is based on fieldwork conducted in Uganda, Liberia and Timor‐Leste, all countries with extended displacement where most of the rural land is held via customary claims.
Atrial Electromechanical Properties in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Efe Tolga Han , Cimen Tolga , Ertem Ahmet Goktug , Coskun Yusuf , Bilgin Murat , Sahan Haluk Furkan , Pamukcu Hilal Erken , Yayla Cagri , Sunman Hamza , Yuksel Ilhami , Yeter Ekrem
Published: May 2016

Background

There is much evidence linking inflammation to the initiation and continuation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), are chronic systemic inflammatory disorders. Atrial electromechanical delay (EMD) has been known as an early marker of AF. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the atrial electromechanical properties in patients with IBD.

Methods

Fifty‐two patients with IBD and 26 healthy controls were recruited in the study. Twenty‐five of patients with IBD were on active period, and the remaining 27 were on remission period. Atrial electromechanical properties were measured by using transthoracic echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging and simultaneous surface ECG recording. Interatrial EMD, left intraatrial EMD, and right intraatrial EMD were calculated.

Results

Patients on activation with IBD had significantly prolonged left and right intraatrial EMDs and interatrial EMD compared to patients on remission (P = 0.048, P = 0.036, P < 0.001, respectively) and healthy controls (P < 0.001, for all comparisons). Left and right intraatrial EMDs and interatrial EMD were also found to be higher when patients on remission with IBD compared with healthy controls. No statistical difference was observed between UC and CD in terms of inter‐ and intraatrial EMDs.

Conclusions

Atrial electromechanical conduction is prolonged in IBD, and exposure to chronic inflammation may lead to structural and electrophysiological changes in the atrial tissue that causes slow conduction. Measurement of atrial EMD parameters might be used to predict the risk for the development of AF in patients with IBD.
Long‐term complication in follicular lymphoma: assessing the risk of secondary neoplasm in 242 patients treated or not with 90‐yttrium‐ibritumomab‐tiuxetan
Authors: Andrade‐Campos Marcio Miguel , Liévano Paola , Espinosa‐Lara Natalia , Soro‐Alcubierre Gloria , Grasa‐Ulrich José María , López‐Gómez Luis , Baringo Teresa , Giraldo Pilar
Published: May 2016

Background

Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma patients have a 25% increased risk of secondary primary neoplasms (SPNs). Regarding the controversy about the increased risk of SPN in patients exposed to radioimmunotherapy (RIT), we have analyzed this issue in a cohort of follicular lymphoma (FL) patients treated with/without RIT.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective study including all consecutive FL patients diagnosed since 2001 was performed. Demographic, clinical data including the incidence of any kind of neoplasm (excluding basocellular skin carcinoma) were recorded.

Results

A total of 242 patients were registered, male/female: 103/139, mean age: 59.9 yr (15–86), stage IV (57.8%), and Follicular Lymphoma Prognostic Index (FLIPI) low‐risk (62.15%) predominance. Ninety‐six patients (39.7%) were treated with 90Y‐IT. The median follow‐up for patients treated or not with 90Y‐IT was 61 (8–273) and 38 (1–171) months. With respect to SPN incidence, 38 (15.6%) patients have at least two cancers, in 17 (44.7%), FL was the SPN; for the rest (226), the global incidence of SPNs was 9.3% (21), but there were no differences related to the exposition or not to 90Y‐IT (P = 0.26). In seven patients, more than two (2–6) different therapies were registered; four were exposed to fludarabine‐based therapy, three to radiotherapy and two to autologous stem‐cell transplantation, and in the RIT cohort, two patients developed myelodysplastic syndrome.

Conclusion

This is one of the largest single institution reports assessing the risk of SPN in FL patients treated (96) or not (146) with 90Y‐IT. It seems that 90Y‐IT does not increase significantly the risk of SPN but avoiding its use after fludarabine and other intense cytotoxic schemes is recommended.
Nanotherapy silencing the interleukin‐8 gene produces regression of prostate cancer by inhibition of angiogenesis
Authors: Aalinkeel Ravikumar , Nair Bindukumar , Chen Chih‐Kuang , Mahajan Supriya D. , Reynolds Jessica L. , Zhang Hanguang , Sun Haotian , Sykes Donald E. , Chadha Kailash C. , Turowski Steven G. , Bothwell Katelyn D. , Seshadri Mukund , Cheng Chong , Schwartz Stanley A.
Published: May 2016

Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) is a pro‐angiogenic cytokine associated with aggressive prostate cancer (CaP). We detected high levels of IL‐8 in sera from patients with CaP compared with healthy controls and patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy. This study examines the role of IL‐8 in the pathogenesis of metastatic prostate cancer. We developed a biocompatible, cationic polylactide (CPLA) nanocarrier to complex with and efficiently deliver IL‐8 small interfering RNA (siRNA) to CaP cells in vitro and in vivo. CPLA IL‐8 siRNA nanocomplexes (nanoplexes) protect siRNA from rapid degradation, are non‐toxic, have a prolonged lifetime in circulation, and their net positive charge facilitates penetration of cell membranes and subsequent intracellular trafficking. Administration of CPLA IL‐8 siRNA nanoplexes to immunodeficient mice bearing human CaP tumours produced significant antitumour activities with no adverse effects. Systemic (intravenous) or local intra‐tumour administration of IL‐8 siRNA nanoplexes resulted in significant inhibition of CaP growth. Magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography of experimental animals demonstrated reduction of tumour perfusion in vivo following nanoplex treatment. Staining of tumour sections for CD31 confirmed significant damage to tumour neovasculature after nanoplex therapy. These studies demonstrate the efficacy of IL‐8 siRNA nanotherapy for advanced, treatment‐resistant human CaP.
Participative mental health consumer research for improving physical health care: An integrative review
Authors: Happell Brenda , Ewart Stephanie B. , Platania‐Phung Chris , Stanton Robert
Published: May 2016

People with mental illness have a significantly lower life expectancy and higher rates of chronic physical illnesses than the general population. Health care system reform to improve access and quality is greatly needed to address this inequity. The inclusion of consumers of mental health services as co‐investigators in research is likely to enhance service reform. In light of this, the current paper reviews mental health consumer focussed research conducted to date, addressing the neglect of physical health in mental health care and initiatives with the aim of improving physical health care. The international literature on physical healthcare in the context of mental health services was searched for articles, including mental health consumers in research roles, via Medline, CINAHL and Google Scholar, in October 2015. Four studies where mental health consumers participated as researchers were identified. Three studies involved qualitative research on barriers and facilitators to physical health care access, and a fourth study on developing technologies for more effective communication between GPs and patients. This review found that participatory mental health consumer research in physical health care reform has only become visible in the academic literature in 2015. Heightened consideration of mental health consumer participation in research is required by health care providers and researchers. Mental health nurses can provide leadership in increasing mental health consumer research on integrated care directed towards reducing the health gap between people with and without mental illness.
Constraints on geographic variation in fiddler crabs (Ocypodidae: Uca) from the western Atlantic
Authors: Hopkins M. J. , Haber A. , Thurman C. L.
Published: May 2016

A key question in evolutionary biology is how intraspecific variation biases the evolution of a population and its divergence from other populations. Such constraints potentially limit the extent to which populations respond to selection, but may endure long enough to have macroevolutionary consequences. Previous studies have focused on the association between covariation patterns and divergence among isolated populations. Few have focused on geographic variation among semi‐connected populations, however, even though this may be indicative of early selective pressures that could lead to long‐term divergence and speciation. Here, we test whether covariation in the shape of the carapace of fiddler crabs (genus Uca Leach, 1814) is important for structuring geographic variation. We find that morphological divergence among populations is associated with evolvability in the direction of divergence in only a few species. The shape of the ancestral covariation matrix in these species differs from other species in having notably more variation concentrated along fewer directions (i.e. higher eccentricity). For most species, there is some evidence that covariation has constrained the range of directions into which populations have diverged but not the degree of divergence. These results suggest that even though fiddler crab populations have diverged morphologically in directions predicted by covariation, constraints on the extent to which divergence has occurred may only be manifested in species where variation patterns are eccentric enough to limit populations’ ability to respond effectively in many directions.
Combining gradient ascent search and support vector machines for effective autofocus of a field emission–scanning electron microscope
Authors: DEMBÉLÉ S. , LEHMANN O. , MEDJAHER K. , MARTURI N. , PIAT N.
Published: May 2016

Autofocus is an important issue in electron microscopy, particularly at high magnification. It consists in searching for sharp image of a specimen, that is corresponding to the peak of focus. The paper presents a machine learning solution to this issue. From seven focus measures, support vector machines fitting is used to compute the peak with an initial guess obtained from a gradient ascent search, that is search in the direction of higher gradient of focus. The solution is implemented on a Carl Zeiss Auriga FE‐SEM with a three benchmark specimen and magnification ranging from x300 to x160 000. Based on regularized nonlinear least squares optimization, the solution overtakes the literature nonregularized search and Fibonacci search methods: accuracy improvement ranges from 1.25 to 8 times, fidelity improvement ranges from 1.6 to 28 times, and speed improvement ranges from 1.5 to 4 times. Moreover, the solution is practical by requiring only an off‐line easy automatic train with cross‐validation of the support vector machines.
Registered Nurses: The Curious Case of a Persistent Shortage
Authors: Johnson William G. , Butler Richard , Harootunian Gevork , Wilson Barbara , Linan Margaret
Published: May 2016

Purpose

To better understand the apparent persistent shortage of registered nurses (RNs), including both aggregate trends and cyclical responses.

Design

We examine the employment of RNs over variations in economic activity, employing national aggregate and unique micro‐population data on nurses in Arizona.

Methods

These data, including our unique, ongoing survey of nurses in Arizona, enable a systematic examination of the cyclical demand for hospital care and institutional responses to that demand in the nursing market by employing multivariate regressions.

Findings

Demand for hospital nursing care increases rapidly during the early years of recessions, moderating as the economy improves. Hospitals initially employ more temporary nurses, then reduce temporary hires by shifting employed RNs from part time to full time while also adding RNs not previously employed in hospitals. The substitution of regularly employed RNs for temporary nurses reflects the need to reduce staffing costs to offset increases in uncompensated care.

Conclusions

The increased supply of nurses came from delayed retirements, higher relative hospital wages (inducing nurses in other sectors to return to hospitals), and added‐worker effects. Additional nursing hours were drawn from a pool of RNs who were not employed in health care.

Clinical Relevance

These results strongly suggest that correctly aligned incentives could reduce RN shortages without waiting for another recession.
ONE WITHOUT THE OTHER? BEHAVIOURAL AND INCENTIVE POLICIES FOR HOUSEHOLD WASTE MANAGEMENT
Authors: Kirakozian Ankinée
Published: May 2016

This paper provides a review of economic studies that analyses the use of multiple policies to cope with waste management problems. We discuss the factors that influence selective sorting behaviour, and the most appropriate policies for their promotion. Based on the works analysed, our survey shows the original features of waste as an environmental problem requiring regulation. The traditional approach in which decisions respond to rational behaviour, particularly cost savings, has some limits. Although not all public policies seem justified, we argue that there might be a need for specific policies to promote recycling, preferably based on the provision of information to consumers or on behavioural instruments. Indeed, personal factors specific to each individual – such as emotions and the influence of social interaction – should be taken into account in the development of public policies. We review the literature related to different rationales and identify some avenues for future research.
Melatonin attenuates neuronal apoptosis through up‐regulation of K+–Cl− cotransporter KCC2 expression following traumatic brain injury in rats
Authors: Wu Haijian , Shao Anwen , Zhao Mingfei , Chen Sheng , Yu Jun , Zhou Jingyi , Liang Feng , Shi Ligen , Dixon Brandon J. , Wang Zhen , Ling Chenhan , Hong Yuan , Zhang Jianmin
Published: May 2016

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) initiates a complex cascade of neurochemical and signaling changes that leads to neuronal apoptosis, which contributes to poor outcomes for patients with TBI. The neuron‐specific K+–Cl− cotransporter‐2 (KCC2), the principal Cl− extruder in adult neurons, plays an important role in Cl− homeostasis and neuronal function. This present study was designed to investigate the expression pattern of KCC2 following TBI and to evaluate whether or not melatonin is able to prevent neuronal apoptosis by modulating KCC2 expression in a Sprague Dawley rat controlled cortical impact model of TBI. The time course study showed decreased mRNA and protein expression of KCC2 in the ipsilateral peri‐core parietal cortex after TBI. Double immunofluorescence staining demonstrated that KCC2 is located in the plasma membrane of neurons. In addition, melatonin (10 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally at 5 minutes and repeated at 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours after brain trauma, and brain samples were extracted 24 hours after TBI. Compared to the vehicle group, melatonin treatment altered the down‐regulation of KCC2 expression in both mRNA and protein levels after TBI. Also, melatonin treatment increased the protein levels of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (p‐ERK). Simultaneously, melatonin administration ameliorated cortical neuronal apoptosis, reduced brain edema, and attenuated neurological deficits after TBI. In conclusion, our findings suggested that melatonin restores KCC2 expression, inhibits neuronal apoptosis and attenuates secondary brain injury after TBI, partially through activation of BDNF/ERK pathway.
Scaling leaf respiration with nitrogen and phosphorus in tropical forests across two continents
Authors: Rowland Lucy , Zaragoza‐Castells Joana , Bloomfield Keith J. , Turnbull Matthew H. , Bonal Damien , Burban Benoit , Salinas Norma , Cosio Eric , Metcalfe Daniel J. , Ford Andrew , Phillips Oliver L. , Atkin Owen K. , Meir Patrick
Published: May 2016

Leaf dark respiration (Rdark) represents an important component controlling the carbon balance in tropical forests. Here, we test how nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) affect Rdark and its relationship with photosynthesis using three widely separated tropical forests which differ in soil fertility.

Rdark was measured on 431 rainforest canopy trees, from 182 species, in French Guiana, Peru and Australia. The variation in Rdark was examined in relation to leaf N and P content, leaf structure and maximum photosynthetic rates at ambient and saturating atmospheric CO2 concentration.

We found that the site with the lowest fertility (French Guiana) exhibited greater rates of Rdark per unit leaf N, P and photosynthesis. The data from Australia, for which there were no phylogenetic overlaps with the samples from the South American sites, yielded the most distinct relationships of Rdark with the measured leaf traits.

Our data indicate that no single universal scaling relationship accounts for variation in Rdark across this large biogeographical space. Variability between sites in the absolute rates of Rdark and the Rdark : photosynthesis ratio were driven by variations in N‐ and P‐use efficiency, which were related to both taxonomic and environmental variability.
Accuracy of PSA Self‐Reports among Low‐Income Men with Prostate Cancer after a Public Health Nursing Intervention
Authors: Zavala Mary Wassel , Yule Arthur , Kwan Lorna , Lambrechts Sylvia , Maliski Sally L. , Litwin Mark S.
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To examine accuracy of patient‐reported prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels among indigent, uninsured men in a state‐funded prostate cancer treatment program that provides case management, care coordination, and health education.

Design and Sample

Program evaluation. About 114 men with matched self‐ and lab‐reported PSA levels at program enrollment and another time point within 18 months.

Measures

Abstraction of self‐ and lab‐reported PSA levels to determine self‐report as “accurate” or “inaccurate,” and evaluate accuracy change over time, before and after nursing interventions. Chi‐square tests compared patients with accurate versus inaccurate PSA values. Nonlinear multivariate analyses explored trends in self‐reported accuracy over time.

Intervention

Program enrollees receive prostate cancer education from a Nurse Case Manager (NCM), including significance of PSA levels. Men self‐report PSA results to their NCM following lab draws and appointments. The NCM provides ongoing education about PSA levels.

Results

Of the sample, 46% (n = 53) accurately reported PSA levels. Accuracy of PSA self‐reports improved with increasing time since program enrollment. Compared with men at public facilities, those treated at private facilities showed increasing accuracy in self‐reported PSA (p = .038).

Conclusion

A targeted nursing intervention may increase specific knowledge of PSA levels. Additionally, the provider/treatment setting significantly impacts a patient's disease education and knowledge.
The interplay of subjective social status and essentialist beliefs about cognitive aging on cortisol reactivity to challenge in older adults
Authors: Weiss David , Weiss Mona
Published: May 2016

Older adults are more likely than younger adults to experience stress when confronted with cognitive challenges. However, little is known about individual differences that might explain why some older adults exhibit stronger stress responses than others. We examined the interplay of two social‐cognitive factors to explain older adults' cortisol reactivity: (1) subjective social status, and (2) essentialist beliefs about cognitive aging. We hypothesized that, depending on whether older adults believe that aging‐related cognitive decline is inevitable versus modifiable, low subjective social status should lead to stronger or weaker cortisol reactivity. Using longitudinal data, we assessed the impact of cognitive challenges on stress reactivity in a sample of older adults (N = 389; 61–86 years). As predicted, regression analyses confirmed that 44 min after cognitively challenging tasks, older adults exhibited a significantly different cortisol reactivity depending on their subjective social status and their essentialist beliefs about cognitive aging. Specifically, older adults with low subjective social status and high essentialist beliefs showed a significantly elevated cortisol reactivity. We discuss the role of essentialist beliefs about cognitive aging to predict when and why high versus low subjective social status leads to stress responses in older adults.
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen S Gene is an Effective Carrier Molecule for Developing GnRH DNA Immunocastration Vaccine in Mice
Authors: Han YG , Ye WJ , Liu GQ , Jiang XP , Ijaz N , Zhao JY , Tesema B
Published: May 2016

Contents

Relatively molecular mass of GnRH antigens is small and hence needs to couple to a large carrier molecule to enhance its immunogenicity. This study investigated whether hepatitis B surface antigen S (HBsAg‐S) gene can be used as an effective carrier molecule for developing GnRH DNA immunocastration vaccine. Two copies of human GnRH gene were fused with HBsAg‐S gene for constructing a recombinant plasmid pVAX‐HBsAg‐S‐2GnRH that coded for 27 kDa target fusion protein. Ten male mice were divided into two equal groups, treatment and control. The vaccine (50 μg/mice) prepared in saline solution was injected into male mice at weeks 0, 1, 2, 4 and 7 of the experiment. Vaccine's efficacy was evaluated in terms of GnRH‐specific IgG antibody response, plasma testosterone levels, testicular weight and extent of the testicular tissue damage. The specific anti‐GnRH antibody titre in vaccinated animals was significantly higher than in controls in only 4th week of immunization (p < 0.05). In addition, vaccinated animals showed lower testicular weight than those of the controls (p < 0.05). Spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubules in vaccinated animals was suppressed. In conclusion, in this study, the engineered plasmid to be used as a GnRH DNA vaccine induced antibody response and suppressed spermatogenesis in mice. This suggests that HBsAg‐S gene can be an effective carrier molecule for developing GnRH DNA immunocastration vaccine when relatively molecular mass of the aimed antigens is small.
Dental and dentofacial problems in a female child with Toriello‐Carey ­syndrome: changes in 3 years
Authors: Tirali Resmiye Ebru , İlhan Banu , Şar Çağla , Çehreli Sevi Burçak
Published: May 2016

Toriello‐Carey syndrome is a rare disease whose clinical manifestations are midline facial defects, laryngeal and pharyngeal hypoplasia, cardiac defect, and corpus callosum hypoplasia. Literature states that clinical manifestations are more evident in males. This is the second report in the literature which describes the dental and dentofacial ­features in an 8‐year‐old female patient with Toriello‐Carey syndrome.
Serum creatinine elevation after switch to dolutegravir in a human immunodeficiency virus–positive kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Lee D.H. , Malat G.E. , Bias T.E. , Harhay M.N. , Ranganna K. , Doyle A.M.
Published: May 2016

Dolutegravir is a preferred antiretroviral drug for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected patients following solid organ transplantation. It has potent antiretroviral activity and does not interact with calcineurin inhibitors. We describe a case of an HIV‐infected kidney transplant patient, who was noted to have a rising serum creatinine following initiation of dolutegravir. At first, an acute rejection episode was suspected, but this finding was later attributed to inhibition of creatinine secretion by dolutegravir. We suggest that an awareness of this potential effect of dolutegravir is important for providers who take care of HIV‐positive kidney transplant recipients, in order to prevent potentially unnecessary testing.
Determination of parameters for Cauchy's problem for systems of ODEs with application to biological modelling
Authors: Pete A.N. , Mathye Peter , Fedotov Igor , Shatalov Michael
Published: May 2016

An inverse numerical method that estimate parameters of dynamic mathematical models given some information about unknown trajectories at some time is applied to examples taken from Biology and Ecology. The method consisting of determining an over-determined system of algebraic equations using experimental data. The solution of the over-determined system is then obtained using, for example the least-squares method. To illustrate the effectiveness of the method an analysis of examples and corresponding numerical example are presented.
A First Model of the Dynamics of the Bacteriophage T4 Injection Machinery
Authors: Maghsoodi Ameneh , Chatterjee Anupam , Andricioaei Ioan , Perkins N. C.
Published: May 2016

Bacteriophage T4 is one of the most common and complex of the tailed viruses that infect host bacteria using an intriguing contractile tail assembly. Despite extensive progress in resolving the structure of T4, the dynamics of the injection machinery remains largely unknown. This paper contributes a first model of the injection machinery that is driven by elastic energy stored in a structure known as the sheath. The sheath is composed of helical strands of protein that suddenly collapse from an energetic, extended conformation prior to infection to a relaxed, contracted conformation during infection. We employ Kirchhoff rod theory to simulate the nonlinear dynamics of a single protein strand coupled to a model for the remainder of the virus, including the coupled translation and rotation of the head (capsid), neck, and tail tube. Doing so provides an important building block toward the future goal of modeling the entire sheath structure which is composed of six interacting helical protein strands. The resulting numerical model exposes fundamental features of the injection machinery including the time scale and energetics of the infection process, the nonlinear conformational change experienced by the sheath, and the contribution of hydrodynamic drag on the head (capsid).
Influence of voxelization on finite difference time domain simulations of head-related transfer functions
Authors: Prepeliță Sebastian , Geronazzo Michele , Avanzini Federico , Savioja Lauri
Published: May 2016

The scattering around the human pinna that is captured by the Head-Related Transfer Functions (HRTFs) is a complex problem that creates uncertainties in both acoustical measurements and simulations. Within the simulation framework of Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) with axis-aligned staircase boundaries resulting from a voxelization process, the voxelization-based uncertainty propagating in the HRTF-captured sound field is quantified for one solid and two surface voxelization algorithms. Simulated results utilizing a laser-scanned mesh of Knowles Electronics Manikin for Acoustic Research (KEMAR) show that in the context of complex geometries with local topology comparable to grid spacing such as the human pinna, the voxelization-related uncertainties in simulations emerge at lower frequencies than the generally used accuracy bandwidths. Numerical simulations show that the voxelization process induces both random error and algorithm-dependent bias in the simulated HRTF spectral features. Frequencies fr below which the random error is bounded by various dB thresholds are estimated and predicted. Particular shortcomings of the used voxelization algorithms are identified and the influence of the surface impedance on the induced errors is studied. Simulations are also validated against measurements.
Recalibrating the Scale: A Case of Reseating a Sold-Out Arena
Authors: LeCrom Carrie W. , Slavich Mark , Rufer Lisa , Greenhalgh Greg , Dwyer Brendan
Published: May 2016

Reseating a stadium or arena is not a new phenomenon. It offers colleges and universities the opportunity to reward donors who have contributed financially to the athletic department as well as to create or maintain an equitable seat allocation system. At the same time, a poorly planned or poorly executed reseating project has the potential to upset current donors to the point of alienation. ABC University is looking to take on a reseating project, and it is looking to Virginia Commonwealth University for guidance because of its successful 2013 reseating project. With the success of its men’s basketball program and highly engaged fan base, the time is right to undertake this project. Factors involved in the decision to reseat, communication with fans, and the method involved with the actual reseating are among the topics discussed. This case study would be beneficial to other schools looking to reseat or future athletic administrators interested in an insider’s perspective at a major revenue generation project.
Idiopathic sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis presenting as a right iliac fossa mass in a teenaged girl
Authors: Abdullah Hafez Mohammad Ammar , Shahzad Muhammad Asim , Ullah Sajjad , Ullah Waqas
Published: May 2016

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP) is a rare peritoneal condition characterised by a firm and thick membrane that encases a part of or the whole of the small intestine. It can be idiopathic or secondary to a variety of conditions. It usually presents as an acute or subacute small bowel obstruction, however, the presentation can vary. It may be diagnosed by radiology, although definitive diagnosis is by laparoscopy or laparotomy. It is treated by excision of the covering membrane. We report a case of a teenaged girl who presented with abdominal pain and a palpable mass in the right iliac fossa. The patient underwent emergency laparotomy after her work up was inconclusive, and was found to have a case of SEP. The distal ileum and the sigmoid colon appeared to be covered by a thick membrane, which was excised. Follow-up of the patient was unremarkable.
Faecal microbiota transplantation: applications and limitations in treating gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Sbahi Hani , Di Palma Jack A
Published: May 2016

The process of stool transfer from healthy donors to the sick, known as faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), has an ancient history. However, only recently researchers started investigating its applications in an evidence-based manner. Current knowledge of the microbiome, the concept of dysbiosis and results of preliminary research suggest that there is an association between gastrointestinal bacterial disruption and certain disorders. Researchers have studied the effects of FMT on various gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal diseases, but have been unable to precisely pinpoint specific bacterial strains responsible for the observed clinical improvement or futility of the process. The strongest available data support the efficacy of FMT in the treatment of recurrentClostridium difficileinfection with cure rates reported as high as 90% in clinical trials. The use of FMT in other conditions including inflammatory bowel disease, functional gastrointestinal disorders, obesity and metabolic syndrome is still controversial. Results from clinical studies are conflicting, which reflects the gap in our knowledge of the microbiome composition and function, and highlights the need for a more defined and personalised microbial isolation and transfer.
Extensive forest management contributes to maintain suitable habitat characteristics for the endangered Atlantic-Gaspésie caribou
Authors: Nadeau Fortin Marie-Audrey , Sirois Luc , St-Laurent Martin-Hugues
Published: May 2016

Extensive forest management aims at minimizing differences between managed and natural forests and at contributing to the conservation of endangered species such as the Atlantic-Gaspésie caribou. The decline of this isolated population was exacerbated by intensive forest practices, as the over-representation of regenerating forests supports high densities of bears and coyotes. These predators select such stands for the high availability of berries and browse suitable to alternative prey, especially moose. Our objective was to verify whether extensive treatments can provide suitable habitat characteristics for caribou. We compared the impacts of different intensive and extensive treatments on habitat attributes known to be selected by caribou, moose, and their predators. We sampled 291 sites in seven treatments and in mature coniferous forests (as the control). A partial canonical correspondence analysis highlighted which treatments maintain habitat attributes that are comparable with those found in mature forests, including some characteristics suitable for caribou such as a substantial biomass of arboreal lichen and a lower availability of resources for predators. Although being more suitable than the three intensive treatments tested, none of the four extensive treatments we studied provided similar habitat conditions to mature forest. Favouring extensive treatments could nevertheless be a relevant conservation compromise at the forest stand level, but their utility remains uncertain under the maximum sustainable yield paradigm as they impact a larger area.
Scaling limits of solutions of linear evolution equations with random initial conditions
Authors: Krupski Miłosz
Published: May 2016

We consider a linear equation [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a generator of a semigroup of linear operators on a certain Hilbert space related to an initial condition [Formula: see text] being a generalised stationary random field on [Formula: see text]. We show the existence and uniqueness of generalised solutions to such initial value problems. Then we investigate their scaling limits.
Surface functionalization of SPR chip for specific molecular interaction analysis under flow condition
Authors: Ma Tao , Chen Xiaoxia , Peng Qing , Zhang Pengfei , He Yonghong
Published: May 2016

Surface functionalization of sensor chip for probe immobilization is crucial for the biosensing applications of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors. In this paper, we report a method circulating the dopamine aqueous solution to coat polydopamine film on sensing surface for surface functionalization of SPR chip. The polydopamine film with available thickness can be easily prepared by controlling the circulation time and the biorecognition elements can be immobilized on the polydopamine film for specific molecular interaction analysis. These operations are all performed under flow condition in the fluidic system, and have the advantages of easy implementation, less time consuming, and low cost, because the reagents and devices used in the operations are routinely applied in most laboratories. In this study, the specific absorption between the protein A probe immobilized on the sensing surface and human immunoglobulin G in the buffer is monitored based on this surface functionalization strategy to demonstrated its feasibility for SPR biosensing applications.
Repeated tabular injection of high-level alkaline granites in the eastern Bushveld, South Africa
Authors: WILSON JEFF , FERRÉ ERIC C. , LESPINASSE PIERRE
Published: May 2016

Field observations, petrography and magnetic susceptibility fabrics are used to characterize the structure and evolution of the Nebo granite, forming part of the Bushveld Complex, in South Africa. The Nebo granite is the dominant component of the Lebowa granite suite, the largest known anorogenic granitoid complex. It is a composite tabular intrusion, comprising alkali feldspar granites and syenogranites. There are seven main petrographic units, defined by differences in modal content, crystallization sequence, magmatic water content, magnetic susceptibility and magnetic fabric. Each unit was emplaced independently and fed by vertical dykes. Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility used to map magmatic fabrics within the granite shows that they are dominantly controlled by alignment of early-crystallizing magnetite and are similar in outcrop and pluton scale. Magnetic foliations and lineations are horizontal, reflecting vertical host-rock compression and horizontal magma flow during emplacement. Space was created by magma pressure which resulted in roof uplift and floor depression: displacements were accommodated by normal and reverse faulting and flexural-slip along bedding planes in host-rock metasediments.
The Effect of Font Type on Screen Readability by People with Dyslexia
Authors: Rello Luz , Baeza-Yates Ricardo
Published: May 2016

Around 10% of the people have dyslexia, a neurological disability that impairs a person’s ability to read and write. There is evidence that the presentation of the text has a significant effect on a text’s accessibility for people with dyslexia. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are no experiments that objectively measure the impact of the typeface (font) on screen reading performance. In this article, we present the first experiment that uses eye-tracking to measure the effect of typeface on reading speed. Using a mixed between-within subject design, 97 subjects (48 with dyslexia) read 12 texts with 12 different fonts. Font types have an impact on readability for people with and without dyslexia. For the tested fonts,
sans serif
,
monospaced,
and
roman
font styles significantly improved the reading performance over
serif
,
proportional,
and
italic
fonts. On the basis of our results, we recommend a set of more accessible fonts for people with and without dyslexia.
What is the American Physiological Society's ITL and who are the members of PECOP?
Authors: Goodman Barbara E. , Matyas Marsha Lakes
Published: May 2016

The American Physiological Society Teaching Section has developed a biennial Institute on Teaching and Learning (ITL) through the APS Conference Program. The first ITL was held in June 2014, and the second ITL will be in June 2016. A Physiology Education Community of Practice was created to help connect the institute participants and other physiology educators to share evidence-based teaching in physiology at all education levels and ideas for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning and Discipline-Based Education Research in physiology. This editorial describes the origins and outcomes of the ITL and the advantages of joining the Physiology Education Community of Practice.
Hypoxanthine Derivatives in Experimental Infections
Authors: Simone Claudio De , Martelli Edoardo Arrigoni , Foresta Pietro , Famularo Giuseppe , Giacomelli Roberto , Jirillo Emilio , Ruggiero Vito , Tonietti Giorgio
Published: May 2016

In vivo treatment with parenterally administered hypoxanthine
derivatives, notably ST 789, was able to protect cyclophosphamide‐immunosuppressed mice against
experimental infections with both bacterial and fungal pathogens. However, the mechanisms accounting
for these effects of hypoxanthine derivatives remain to be fully established. In fact, only the treatment with
ST 789 resulted in a clear enhancement of the primary antibody production as well as macrophage
phagocytic activity, whereas T lymphocyte responsiveness to mitogens and both macrophage‐ and natural
killer‐dependent cytotoxicity were not significantly affected. These data, together with the recently shown
ability of ST 789 to increase interleukin‐6 production, suggest that monocyte/macrophages are likely to be the main cellular target of the immunomodulating activity of ST 789. Finally, in the presentln vivo study, hypoxanthine derivatives did not enhance the mean survival time of tumour‐bearing immunosuppressed mice.
Preclinical Evaluation of a Bone‐Marrow Autograft Culture Procedure for Generating Lymphokine‐Activated Killer Cells in Vitro
Authors: Klingemann Hans-Georg , Deal Heather , Reid Dianne , Eaves Connie J
Published: May 2016

Despite the use of high dose chemoradiotherapy for the treatment of acute leukemia. relapse
continues to be a major cause of death in patients given an autologous bone marrow transplant. Further
augmentation of pretransplant chemotherapy causes life threatening toxicity to nonhematopoietic tissues
and the effectiveness of currently available ex vivo purging methods in reducing the relapse rate is unclear.
Recently, data from experimental models have suggested that bone marrow‐derived lymphokine (IL‐2)‐activated
killer (BM‐LAK) cells might be used to eliminate residual leukemic cells both in vivo and in vitro.
To evaluate this possibility clinically, a procedure was developed for culturing whole marrow harvests with
IL‐2 prior to use as autografts, and a number of variables examined that might affect either the generation
of BM‐LAK cells or the recovery of the primitive hematopoietic cells. The use of Dexter long term culture
(LTC) conditions, which expose the cells to horse serum and hydrocortisone. supported LAK cell generation
as effectively as fetal calf serum (FCS) ‐containing medium in seven‐day cultures. Maintenance of BM‐LAK
cell activity after a further seven days of culture in the presence of IL‐2 was also tested. As in the clinical
setting. patients would receive IL‐2 in vivo for an additional week immediately following infusion of the
cultured marrow autograft. Generation ofBM‐LAK activity was dependent on the presence of IL‐2 and could
be sustained by further incubation in medium containing IL‐2. Primitive hematopoietic cells were
quantitated by measuring the number of in vitro colony‐forming progenitors produced after five weeks in
secondary Dexter‐type LTC. Maintenance of these ′LTC‐initiating cells′ was unaffected by lL‐2 in the culture
medium. These results suggest that LAK cells can be generated efficien tly in seven‐day marrow autograft
cultures containing IL‐2 under conditions that allow the most primitive human hematopoietic cells
currently detectable to be maintained.
Adjuvants for a New Generation of Vaccines
Authors: Allison Anthony C , Byars Noelene E
Published: May 2016

Subunit antigens of viruses and other infectious agents in their natural configuration can be
produced by recombinant DNA technology. To elicit protective immunity such antigens have to be
administered with adjuvants that elicit cell‐mediated immunity, including genetically restricted cytotoxicity,
and that produce high affinity antibodies of protective isotypes. Antibodies of such isotypes
(immunoglobulin G2a [IgG2a] in the mouse and IgG 1 in humans) efficiently activate complement and effect
antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity. Naturally occurring adjuvants such as lipopolysaccharide
and muramyl dipeptide (MOP) are pyrogenic and produce uveitis and arthritis in susceptible experimental
animal and human recipients. Synthetic analogues of MOP and monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) retain
adjuvant activity with reduced side effects. Adjuvants increase the expression of class II major histocompatibility
complex on antigen‐presenting cells and cytokine production: interferon‐gamma augments the
production of IgG2a antibodies in the mouse. Dispersion of antigens in water‐oil emulsions, immunestimulating
complexes or liposomes also increases immunogenicity, at least partly by targeting antigens
to antigen‐presenting cells. Inclusion of MOP analogues or MPL in such systems constitutes adjuvant
formulations, such as MOP‐A. When used with a variety of recombinant and other subunit antigens, such
adjuvants elicit protective immunity in experimental animals. This strategy improves vaccines already in
use (eg, influenza and hepatitis B) and makes possible new vaccines (herpesviruses, simian and human
immunodeficiency viruses, respiratory syncytial virus and acellular pertussis).