bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived Facilitators of and Barriers to Healthful Eating Among University Students
Authors: Garcia Alicia C. , Sykes Lesley , Matthews June , Martin Noelle , Leipert Beverly
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Photovoice, an innovative qualitative research method in health care, has not been used to its full potential in nutrition/dietetics. We explored the use of Photovoice to determine perceived facilitators of and barriers to healthful eating among university students.

Methods: The study included 28 students enrolled in a 2008 introductory nutrition class. The students participated in a camera orientation session to review ethics and privacy issues. They took photographs and selected two for discussion in a focus group moderated by a graduate student who used a semi-structured facilitation guide. Researchers coded the transcripts, analyzed the pictures and students’ written comments about the project, and ensured data trustworthiness through credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability of data and methods.

Results: Six major themes emerged as facilitators and/or barriers: environment, nutrition knowledge, convenience foods, time, media influence, and food cost. More than onethird of the students thought the study “stimulated their critical thinking.” They felt more empowered in sharing their perceptions and “getting their voices heard.”

Conclusions: Photovoice was a useful, “motivating,” and “engaging” method for research on nutrition knowledge and dietary patterns of university students. Registered dietitians and other health professionals may benefit from the use of the Photovoice method when they are working with students.
Innu Food Consumption Patterns: Traditional Food and Body Mass Index
Authors: Atikessé Laura , de Grosbois Sylvie Boucher , St-Jean Mélissa , Penashue Basile (Mashen) , Benuen Manipia
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Food consumption patterns of an Innu community were described and the benefits of traditional food (TF) were investigated in relation to body mass index (BMI).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using food frequency and 24-hour recall questionnaires to evaluate consumption patterns (n=118) and to assess energy and nutrient intakes from TF and store-bought food (SBF) (n=161). Body mass index was calculated with a sub-sample of 45 participants.

Results: Mean yearly TF meal consumption was significantly related to age (p=0.05). Participants reporting high TF and low SBF consumption presented with a normal body weight (BMI=24.1) at the lower quartile and a slightly overweight status (BMI=25.8) at the median. Mean values for protein and carbohydrate intake were higher than the Dietary Reference Intakes, whereas dietary fibre intake was below these guidelines for both genders. Store-bought food provided higher levels of energy and nutrients, except for protein.

Conclusions: Although Innu consume high amounts of TF and SBF, a lack of some essential nutrients was observed. Because TF intake was related to a tendency toward a lower BMI, a combined, targeted diet could be proposed. Health services could reinforce the importance of TF consumption and promote traditional dietary practices that offer advantages at many levels.
Food Purchasing and Food Insecurity: Among Low-income Families in Toronto
Authors: Dachner Naomi , Ricciuto Laurie , Kirkpatrick Sharon I. , Tarasuk Valerie
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Factors underlying food-purchasing decisions were examined among a sample of low-income Toronto families.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was completed among 485 families residing in high-poverty Toronto neighbourhoods. Food-security status was assessed using the Household Food Security Survey Module. Open-ended questions were included to examine respondents’ food selection and management practices and their purchasing decisions for six indicator foods. Logistic regression was used to examine associations between factors influencing food-purchasing decisions, perceived food adequacy, and severity of food insecurity.

Results: Twenty-two percent of families had been severely food insecure in the past 30 days. Respondents engaged in thrifty food shopping practices, such as frequenting discount supermarkets and budgeting carefully. Price was the most salient factor influencing food-purchasing decisions; the likelihood that families would report this factor increased with deteriorating food security. Preference, quality, and health considerations also guided food-purchasing decisions, but generally to a lesser extent as food insecurity increased. Household food supplies reflected constraints on food purchasing, and they diminished with increasing food insecurity.

Conclusions: Despite their resourcefulness, low-income families struggle to feed their families. Dietitians have an important role to play as advocates for adequate income supports to promote food security and nutritional health.
Nutritional Status and Body Composition of Adult Patients with Brain Tumours Awaiting Surgical Resection
Authors: McCall Michele , Leone Ashley , Cusimano Michael D.
Published: August 2014

Purpose: To measure the prevalence of malnutrition, risk factors for poor dietary intake and body composition in patients with brain tumours admitted to hospital for surgical resection.

Methods: In this study, 316 patients admitted for brain tumour resection to the Neurosurgical service at St. Michael's Hospital were screened. Assessment tools included the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) for nutritional status and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) for body composition. All measurements were performed by one research dietitian. Information regarding medical history, symptomology, and tumour pathology was recorded.

Results: One hundred and nine participants were recruited. Malnutrition was present in 17.6% of patients, of whom 94.7% were moderately malnourished (SGA-B) and 5.3% severely malnourished (SGA-C). Key symptoms contributing to malnutrition included weight loss, nausea, vomiting, dysphagia, headaches, and fatigue. Patients with malignant tumors were more likely to have weight loss and lower fat mass.

Conclusions: This study demonstrated that patients admitted for brain tumour resection have a low prevalence of malnutrition compared with other cancer populations. Useful parameters for nutritional screening of inpatient admissions include weight loss >5% of usual weight, nausea, vomiting, dysphagia, and headaches.
Identification of Healthy Eating and Active Lifestyle Issues through Photo Elicitation
Authors: Joy Phillip , Mann Linda , Blotnicky Karen
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Effective workplace wellness programs, featuring supports for healthy eating and active lifestyle behaviours, have been found to reduce health risks and the associated economic burdens for individuals, organizations, and their communities. As part of a larger study, the purpose of this research was to engage volunteer participants from a university community to identify healthy eating and active lifestyle barriers and supports.

Methods: An ethics-approved, action-research design with photo elicitation technique was used to engage employees and students. Data were analyzed using qualitative analysis software.

Results: Participants identified barriers and both current and future supports for healthy eating and active lifestyle on campus. These were coded under the sub-themes of food environment, food and nutrition quality, physical environment, physical activity, fitness centre, and awareness/communication.

Conclusion: Photo elicitation was determined to be an effective technique to engage participants. Despite many supports, members of the university community still found it difficult to follow healthy eating and active lifestyle behaviours; however, a number of practical future supports were identified. This study also provided valuable insight into the role that dietitians can play in the development of successful wellness programs.
Indicators of Pediatric Malnutrition in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Larsen Bodil M. , Luchak Mila , Prenoslo Leslie , Wood Kim Brunet , Mazurak Vera
Published: August 2014

Purpose: This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of malnutrition at a Canadian children's hospital based on medical records and to identify gaps in current practices and rates/reasons for dietitian consult.

Methods: A retrospective chart audit of patients admitted during a winter season was completed. Patients with length of stay <4 days were excluded, as were those with fluid retention diseases. Outcome variables included anthropometrics, diet order, rates and reasons for dietitian consult, and biochemical data.

Results: Of the 83 charts reviewed (mean ± SD age 7.3 ± 5.6 years of age), weights were recorded less frequently than recommended (45% of patients ≤2 years of age and 85% of patients >2 years of age met or exceeded recommendations). Twenty-nine (36%) patients were identified at potential increased nutrition risk for overweight, 10 (12%) for underweight, and 31 (38%) patients had nutrition-related chart notes. Only 23 patients (28%) received a dietitian consult and, of those, 21 had a nutrition related chart note. Consultation occurred an average 5.4 ± 4.96 days after admission.

Conclusions: These data emphasize the need for development of standardized screening and assessment tools to better identify pediatric patients at risk for malnutrition and to improve access to optimal nutrition care.
Calcium, Vitamin D, Iron, and Folate Messages in Three Canadian Magazines
Authors: Cooper Marcia , Zalot Lindsay , Wadsworth Laurie A.
Published: August 2014

Purpose: Data from the Canadian Community Health Survey showed that calcium, vitamin D, iron, and folate are nutrients of concern for females 19–50 years of age. The study objectives were to assess the quantity, format, and accuracy of messages related to these nutrients in selected Canadian magazines and to examine their congruency with Canadian nutrition policies.

Methods: Using content analysis methodology, messages were coded using a stratified sample of a constructed year for Canadian Living, Chatelaine, and Homemakers magazines (n = 33) from 2003–2008. Pilot research was conducted to assess inter-coder agreement and to develop the study coding sheet and codebook.

Results: The messages identified (n = 595) averaged 18 messages per magazine issue. The most messages were found for calcium, followed by folate, iron, and vitamin D, and the messages were found primarily in articles (46%) and advertisements (37%). Overall, most messages were coded as accurate (82%) and congruent with Canadian nutrition policies (90%).

Conclusions: This research demonstrated that the majority of messages in 3 Canadian magazines between 2003 and 2008 were accurate and reflected Canadian nutrition policies. Because Canadian women continue to receive much nutrition information via print media, this research provides important insights for dietitians into media messaging.
Intraoperative high-field MRI for transsphenoidal reoperations of nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma
Authors: Berkmann Sven , Schlaffer Sven , Nimsky Christopher , Fahlbusch Rudolf , Buchfelder Michael
Published: August 2014

Object

The loss of anatomical landmarks, frequently invasive tumor growth, and tissue changes make transsphenoidal reoperation of nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFAs) challenging. The use of intraoperative MRI (iMRI) may lead to improved results. The goal of this retrospective study was to evaluate the impact of iMRI on transsphenoidal reoperations for NFA.

Methods

Between September 2002 and July 2012, 109 patients underwent reoperations in which 111 transsphenoidal procedures were performed and are represented in this study. A 1.5-T Magnetom Sonata Maestro Class scanner (Siemens) was used for iMRI. Follow-up iMRI scans were acquired if gross-total resection (GTR) was suspected or if no further removal seemed possible.

Results

Surgery was performed for tumor persistence and regrowth in 26 (23%) and 85 (77%) patients, respectively. On the initial iMRI scans, GTR was confirmed in 19 (17%) patients. Remnants were located as follows: 65 in the cavernous sinus (71%), 35 in the suprasellar space (38%), 9 in the retrosellar space (10%). Additional resection was possible in 62 (67%) patients, resulting in a significant volume reduction and increased GTR rate (49%). The GTR rates of invasive tumors on initial iMRI and postoperative MRI (poMRI) were 7% and 25%, respectively. Additional remnant resection was possible in 64% of the patients. Noninvasive tumors were shown to be totally resected on the initial iMRI in 31% of cases. After additional resection for 69% of the procedures, the GTR rate on poMRI was 75%. Transcranial surgery to resect tumor remnants was indicated in 5 (5%), and radiotherapy was performed in 29 (27%) patients. After GTR, no recurrence was detected during a mean follow-up of 2.2 ± 2.1 years.

Conclusions

The use of iMRI in transsphenoidal reoperations for NFA leads to significantly higher GTR rates. It thus prevents additional operations and reduces the number of tumor remnants. The complication rates do not exceed the incidences reported in the literature for primary transsphenoidal surgery. If complete tumor resection is not possible, iMRI guidance can facilitate tumor volume reduction.
Association of genetic variants in the retinoblastoma binding protein 6 gene with the risk of glioma: a case-control study in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Hu Dezhi , Zhang Shuo , Zhao Yingjie , Wang Shiming , Wang Qihan , Song Xiao , Lu Daru , Mao Ying , Chen Hongyan
Published: August 2014

Object

The retinoblastoma binding protein 6 (RBBP6) gene plays an important role in the induction of apoptosis and regulation of the cell cycle, and interacts with both p53 and retinoblastoma protein in carcinogenesis. Recently, many studies investigating the function of the RBBP6 gene, including its roles in lung cancer and breast cancer, have been reported. However, the association between RBBP6 variants and glioma was unknown. Therefore, to uncover the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of RBBP6 and glioma, a hospital-based case-control study was performed in a Chinese Han population.

Methods

Ten common tagging SNPs of the RBBP6 gene (covering 100% of all SNPs) were genotyped with the Sequenom MassARRY iPLEX platform, including 992 cases and 1008 controls, according to the HapMap database based on a pairwise linkage disequilibrium r2 threshold of 0.8, minor allele frequency of 0.05, and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium of 0.05.

Results

The authors found that 4 SNPs were significantly associated with glioma (rs2033214, p = 0.013, adjusted OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.18–5.14; rs11860248, p = 8.64 × 10−6, adjusted OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.23–2.05; rs9933544, p = 3.65 × 10−4, adjusted OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.13–1.87; rs13332653, p = 0.004, adjusted OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.14–1.95). Stratification analyses revealed that rs2033214 was only significantly associated with low-grade gliomas; rs9933544 and rs13332653 were only significantly associated with glioblastoma multiforme; and rs11860248 was significantly associated with both low-grade gliomas and glioblastoma multiforme, compared with the common wild-type homozygous genotype. Further stratified analysis revealed that rs11860248 was more pronounced in certain subgroups: adults, males, histological types, and family history of cancer. What's more, the haplotype and diplotype analyses consistently revealed that the subjects carrying 1 copy of haplotype CCGCC had a 53% increased glioma risk compared with their corresponding noncarriers (p = 0.018, adjusted OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.08–2.17).

Conclusions

The authors' results suggested that RBBP6 gene variants are associated with glioma and contribute to glioma susceptibility, which was first reported elsewhere. Individuals with the so-called risk alleles might have an increased risk of glioma. These results might provide new insight into the occurrence of glioma.
National socioeconomic indicators are associated with outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a hierarchical mixed-effects analysis
Authors: Guha Daipayan , Ibrahim George M. , Kertzer Joshua D. , Macdonald R. Loch
Published: August 2014

Object

Although heterogeneity exists in patient outcomes following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) across different centers and countries, it is unclear which factors contribute to such disparities. In this study, the authors performed a post hoc analysis of a large international database to evaluate the association between a country's socioeconomic indicators and patient outcome following aneurysmal SAH.

Methods

An analysis was performed on a database of 3552 patients enrolled in studies of tirilazad mesylate for aneurysmal SAH from 1991 to 1997, which included 162 neurosurgical centers in North and Central America, Australia, Europe, and Africa. Two primary outcomes were assessed at 3 months after SAH: mortality and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) score. The association between these outcomes, nation-level socioeconomic indicators (percapita gross domestic product [GDP], population-to-neurosurgeon ratio, and health care funding model), and patientlevel covariates were assessed using a hierarchical mixed-effects logistic regression analysis.

Results

Multiple previously identified patient-level covariates were significantly associated with increased mortality and worse neurological outcome, including age, intraventricular hemorrhage, and initial neurological grade. Among national-level covariates, higher per-capita GDP (p < 0.05) was associated with both reduced mortality and improved neurological outcome. A higher population-to-neurosurgeon ratio (p < 0.01), as well as fewer neurosurgical centers per population (p < 0.001), was also associated with better neurological outcome (p < 0.01). Health care funding model was not a significant predictor of either primary outcome.

Conclusions

Higher per-capita gross GDP and population-to-neurosurgeon ratio were associated with improved outcome after aneurysmal SAH. The former result may speak to the availability of resources, while the latter may be a reflection of better outcomes with centralized care. Although patient clinical and radiographic phenotypes remain the primary predictors of outcome, this study shows that national socioeconomic disparities also explain heterogeneity in outcomes following SAH.
Does awareness affect the restorative function and perception of street trees?
Authors: Lin Ying-Hsuan , Tsai Chih-Chang , Sullivan William C. , Chang Po-Ju , Chang Chun-Yen
Published: August 2014

Urban streetscapes are outdoor areas in which the general public can appreciate green landscapes and engage in outdoor activities along the street. This study tested the extent to which the degree of awareness of urban street trees impacts attention restoration and perceived restorativeness. We manipulated the degree of awareness of street trees. Participants were placed into four groups and shown different images: (a) streetscapes with absolutely no trees; (b) streetscapes with flashes of trees in which participants had minimal awareness of the content; (c) streetscapes with trees; and (d) streetscapes with trees to which participants were told to pay attention. We compared the performance of 138 individuals on measures of attention and their evaluations of perceived restorativeness. Two main findings emerged. First, streetscapes with trees improved the performance of participants on attentional tests even without their awareness of the trees. Second, participants who had raised awareness of street trees performed best on the attentional test and rated the streetscapes as being more restorative. These findings enhance our knowledge about the role of an individual's awareness of restorative elements and have implications for designers and individuals who are at risk of attentional fatigue.
Photocatalytic Activity and Stability of Porous Polycrystalline ZnO Thin-Films Grown via a Two-Step Thermal Oxidation Process
Authors: Moore James , Louder Robert , Thompson Cody
Published: August 2014

The photocatalytic activity and stability of thin, polycrystalline ZnO films was studied. The oxidative degradation of organic compounds at the ZnO surface results from the ultraviolet (UV) photo-induced creation of highly oxidizing holes and reducing electrons, which combine with surface water to form hydroxyl radicals and reactive oxygen species. Therefore, the efficiency of the electron-hole pair formation is of critical importance for self-cleaning and antimicrobial applications with these metal-oxide catalyst systems. In this study, ZnO thin films were fabricated on sapphire substrates via direct current sputter deposition of Zn-metal films followed by thermal oxidation at several annealing temperatures (300–1200 °C). Due to the ease with which they can be recovered, stabilized films are preferable to nanoparticles or colloidal suspensions for some applications. Characterization of the resulting ZnO thin films through atomic force microscopy and photoluminescence indicated that decreasing annealing temperature leads to smaller crystal grain size and increased UV excitonic emission. The photocatalytic activities were characterized by UV-visible absorption measurements of Rhodamine B dye concentrations. The films oxidized at lower annealing temperatures exhibited higher photocatalytic activity, which is attributed to the increased optical quality. Photocatalytic activity was also found to depend on film thickness, with lower activity observed for thinner films. Decreasing activity with use was found to be the result of decreasing film thickness due to surface etching.
Wildlife Habitat Quality (Sward Structure and Ground Cover) Response of Mixed Native Warm-Season Grasses to Harvesting
Authors: Temu Vitalis , Baldwin Brian , Reddy K. , Riffell Samuel , Burger Loren
Published: August 2014

Agricultural intensification in America has replaced native warm-season grasses (NWSG) with introduced forages causing wildlife habitat loss and population declines for the northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) and similar ground-nesting birds. Reintroducing NWSGs onto managed grasslands to reverse grassland bird population declines lacks information about appropriate multi-purpose management. Post-season nesting habitat quality of mixed NWSGs (indiangrass (IG, Sorghastrum nutans), big bluestem (BB, Andropogon gerardii) and little bluestem (LB, Schizachyrium scoparium)) responding to previous-year(s) harvest intervals (treatments, 30-, 40-, 60-, 90 or 120-d) and duration (years in production), were assessed on late-spring-early-summer re-growths. Yearly phased harvestings were initiated in May on sets of randomized plots, ≥90-cm apart, in five replications (blocks) to produce one-, two-, and three-year old stands by the third year. Sward heights and canopy closure were recorded a day before harvest, followed a week after by visual estimates of ground cover of plant species and litter. Harvesting increased post-season grass cover and reduced forbs following a high rainfall year. Harvested plot swards showed no treatment differences, but were shorter and intercepted more sunlight. Similarly, harvest duration increased grass cover with no year effect but reduced forbs following a high rainfall year. One- or two-year full-season harvesting of similar stands may not compromise subsequent bobwhite nesting-cover provided post-season harvesting starts after the breeding cycle is completed.
Minimizing Risks of Invasive Alien Plant Species in Tropical Production Forest Management
Authors: Padmanaba Michael , Corlett Richard
Published: August 2014

Timber production is the most pervasive human impact on tropical forests, but studies of logging impacts have largely focused on timber species and vertebrates. This review focuses on the risk from invasive alien plant species, which has been frequently neglected in production forest management in the tropics. Our literature search resulted in 114 publications with relevant information, including books, book chapters, reports and papers. Examples of both invasions by aliens into tropical production forests and plantation forests as sources of invasions are presented. We discuss species traits and processes affecting spread and invasion, and silvicultural practices that favor invasions. We also highlight potential impacts of invasive plant species and discuss options for managing them in production forests. We suggest that future forestry practices need to reduce the risks of plant invasions by conducting surveillance for invasive species; minimizing canopy opening during harvesting; encouraging rapid canopy closure in plantations; minimizing the width of access roads; and ensuring that vehicles and other equipment are not transporting seeds of invasive species. Potential invasive species should not be planted within dispersal range of production forests. In invasive species management, forewarned is forearmed.
Timely Meditations: Reflections on the Role of the Humanities in J.M. Coetzee’s Elizabeth Costello and Diary of a Bad Year
Authors: Varsamopoulou Evy
Published: August 2014

What may be the relevance of the European tradition of the humanities and of humanism today? In his novels, Elizabeth Costello and Diary of a Bad Year, the South-African writer, academic, and current resident of Australia, J.M. Coetzee, both enriches and puts into question the European traditions that have shaped scholarship, literary writers and academic professions in the humanities. His characters’ meditations on the value of literature, humanism, and the humanities, their present crisis and future possibilities, are timely interventions made from a complex, critical, comparative, cultural and geographic distance. The metafictional investigations of the two novels test the limits of the genre in a manner consistent with more experimental strains of postmodern fiction, while the two protagonists reflect two main personae of the author as itinerant, ageing academic and writer. It is the position of this paper that Coetzee constructs a minor literature within the major language of English; this is made evident by the entirety of his oeuvre to date though it becomes thematized in these two works. This paper will trace some of the contours, confrontations and dialogs of the two books and explore certain tangents of the radical quests and questions they put to their readership.
Identification of Diversity-Generating Retroelements in Human Microbiomes
Authors: Ye Yuzhen
Published: August 2014

Diversity-generating retroelements (DGRs) are a unique family of retroelements that confer selective advantages to their hosts by accelerating the evolution of target genes through a specialized, error-prone, reverse transcription process. First identified in a Bordetella phage (BPP-1), which mediates the phage tropism specificity by generating variability in an involved gene, DGRs were predicted to be present in a larger collection of viral and bacterial species. A minimal DGR system is comprised of a reverse transcriptase (RTase) gene, a template sequence (TR) and a variable region (VR) within a target gene. We developed a computational tool, DGRscan, to allow either de novo identification (based on the prediction of potential template-variable region pairs) or similarity-based searches of DGR systems using known template sequences as the reference. The application of DGRscan to the human microbiome project (HMP) datasets resulted in the identification of 271 non-redundant DGR systems, doubling the size of the collection of known DGR systems. We further identified a large number of putative target genes (651, which share no more than 90% sequence identity at the amino acid level) that are potentially under diversification by the DGR systems. Our study provides the first survey of the DGR systems in the human microbiome, showing that the DGR systems are frequently found in human-associated bacterial communities, although they are of low incidence in individual genomes. Our study also provides functional clues for a large number of genes (reverse transcriptases and target genes) that were previously annotated as proteins of unknown functions or nonspecific functions.
Artesunate Induces Apoptosis of Bladder Cancer Cells by miR-16 Regulation of COX-2 Expression
Authors: Zuo Wei , Wang Zhen-Zhong , Xue Jun
Published: August 2014

Bladder cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the urinary tract and remains one of the major causes of cancer death worldwide. In this study, we investigated the effect and mechanism of Artesunate (ART), a traditional Chinese medicine, on inducing apoptosis of human bladder cancer cells. In vivo antitumor activity was investigated in bladder cancer in rat by subcutaneous injection of different concentration of ART. The effect of ART on growth inhibition and apoptosis of bladder cancer cells was evaluated using dimethylthiazoly-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and miR-16 expression levels were determined with real-time PCR. The concentrations of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the supernatants of bladder cancer cells were measured with an ELISA kit. The miR-16 inhibitor or mimic were transfected into cells to up- or down-regulate miR-16 expression. ART efficiently inhibited orthotopic tumor growth in the bladder cancer rat, which is accompanied with an increase of miR-16 expression and a decrease of COX-2 expression. In vitro, ART could induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis in bladder cancer cells, but presented a much lighter toxicity effect against normal human urothelial cells. ART significantly increased miR-16 expression and decreased the expression of COX-2 and the production of PGE2. More importantly, down-regulation of miR-16 expression could reverse the effect of ART on apoptosis and COX-2 expression in bladder cells. Moreover, exogenous PGE2 could inhibit apoptosis of bladder cancer cells treated with ART. In conclusion, ART can elicit an anti-tumor effect against bladder cancer by up-regulation of miR-16 expression, which resulted in the decrease of COX-2 expression and PGE2 production. Hence, ART might be an effective drug for the treatment of bladder cancer.
Effect of Mucin and Bicarbonate Ion on Corrosion Behavior of AZ31 Magnesium Alloy for Airway Stents
Authors: Jang Yongseok , Owuor Daniel , Waterman Jenora , White Leon , Collins Boyce , Sankar Jagannathan , Gilbert Thomas , Yun Yeoheung
Published: August 2014

The biodegradable ability of magnesium alloys is an attractive feature for tracheal stents since they can be absorbed by the body through gradual degradation after healing of the airway structure, which can reduce the risk of inflammation caused by long-term implantation and prevent the repetitive surgery for removal of existing stent. In this study, the effects of bicarbonate ion (HCO3−) and mucin in Gamble’s solution on the corrosion behavior of AZ31 magnesium alloy were investigated, using immersion and electrochemical tests to systematically identify the biodegradation kinetics of magnesium alloy under in vitro environment, mimicking the epithelial mucus surfaces in a trachea for development of biodegradable airway stents. Analysis of corrosion products after immersion test was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to identify the effects of bicarbonate ions and mucin on the corrosion behavior of AZ31 magnesium alloys with the temporal change of corrosion resistance. The results show that the increase of the bicarbonate ions in Gamble’s solution accelerates the dissolution of AZ31 magnesium alloy, while the addition of mucin retards the corrosion. The experimental data in this work is intended to be used as foundational knowledge to predict the corrosion behavior of AZ31 magnesium alloy in the airway environment while providing degradation information for future in vivo studies.
Effects of Estrogens and Estrogenic Disrupting Compounds on Fish Mineralized Tissues
Authors: Pinto Patricia , Estêvão Maria , Power Deborah
Published: August 2014

Estrogens play well-recognized roles in reproduction across vertebrates, but also intervene in a wide range of other physiological processes, including mineral homeostasis. Classical actions are triggered when estrogens bind and activate intracellular estrogen receptors (ERs), regulating the transcription of responsive genes, but rapid non-genomic actions initiated by binding to plasma membrane receptors were recently described. A wide range of structurally diverse compounds from natural and anthropogenic sources have been shown to interact with and disrupt the normal functions of the estrogen system, and fish are particularly vulnerable to endocrine disruption, as these compounds are frequently discharged or run-off into waterways. The effect of estrogen disruptors in fish has mainly been assessed in relation to reproductive endpoints, and relatively little attention has been given to other disruptive actions. This review will overview the actions of estrogens in fish, including ER isoforms, their expression, structure and mechanisms of action. The estrogen functions will be considered in relation to mineral homeostasis and actions on mineralized tissues. The impact of estrogenic endocrine disrupting compounds on fish mineralized tissues will be reviewed, and the potential adverse outcomes of exposure to such compounds will be discussed. Current lacunae in knowledge are highlighted along with future research priorities.
Towards the Development of Functionalized PolypyridineLigands for Ru(II) Complexes as Photosensitizers inDye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs)
Authors: Adeloye Adewale , Ajibade Peter
Published: August 2014

A number of novel ruthenium(II) polypyridine complexes have been designedand synthesized for use as photosensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) due totheir rich photophysical properties such as intense absorption, long-lived lifetimes, highemission quantum yields and unique redox characteristics. Many of these complexesexhibit photophysical behavior that can be readily controlled through a careful choice ofligands and/or substituents. With this perspective, we review the design and general syntheticmethods of some polypyridine ligands based on bipyridine, phenanthroline, terpyridine andquaterpyridine with/without anchoring groups with a view to correlate functionality ofligand structures with the observed photophysical, electroredox and power conversionefficiency of some examples of Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes that have been reported andparticularly used in the DSSCs applications. The main interest, however, is focused onshowing the development of new polypyridine ligand materials containing long-rangeelectron transfer motifs such as the alkenyl, alkynyl and polyaromatic donor functionalities.
The Half-Size ABC Transporter FOLDED PETALS 2/ABCG13 Is Involved in Petal Elongation through Narrow Spaces in Arabidopsis thaliana Floral Buds
Authors: Takeda Seiji , Iwasaki Akira , Tatematsu Kiyoshi , Okada Kiyotaka
Published: August 2014

Flowers are vital for attracting pollinators to plants and in horticulture for humans. Petal morphogenesis is a central process of floral development. Petal development can be divided into three main processes: the establishment of organ identity in a concentric pattern, primordia initiation at fixed positions within a whorl, and morphogenesis, which includes petal elongation through the narrow spaces within the bud. Here, we show that the FOLDED PETALS 2 (FOP2) gene, encoding a member of the half-size ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporter family ABCG13, is involved in straight elongation of petals in Arabidopsis thaliana. In fop2 mutants, flowers open with folded petals, instead of straight-elongated ones found in the wild type. The epicuticular nanoridge structures are absent in many abaxial epidermal cells of fop2 petals, and surgical or genetic generation of space in young fop2 buds restores the straight elongation of petals, suggesting that the physical contact of sepals and petals causes the petal folding. Similar petal folding has been reported in the fop1 mutant, and the petals of fop2 fop1 double mutants resemble those of both the fop1 and fop2 single mutants, although the epidermal structure and permeability of the petal surface is more affected in fop2. Our results suggest that synthesis and transport of cutin or wax in growing petals play an important role for their smooth elongation through the narrow spaces of floral buds.
An Intelligent Space for Mobile Robot Localization Using a Multi-Camera System
Authors: Rampinelli Mariana , Covre Vitor , De Queiroz Felippe , Vassallo Raquel , Bastos-Filho Teodiano , Mazo Manuel
Published: August 2014

This paper describes an intelligent space, whose objective is to localize and control robots or robotic wheelchairs to help people. Such an intelligent space has 11 cameras distributed in two laboratories and a corridor. The cameras are fixed in the environment, and image capturing is done synchronously. The system was programmed as a client/server with TCP/IP connections, and a communication protocol was defined. The client coordinates the activities inside the intelligent space, and the servers provide the information needed for that. Once the cameras are used for localization, they have to be properly calibrated. Therefore, a calibration method for a multi-camera network is also proposed in this paper. A robot is used to move a calibration pattern throughout the field of view of the cameras. Then, the captured images and the robot odometry are used for calibration. As a result, the proposed algorithm provides a solution for multi-camera calibration and robot localization at the same time. The intelligent space and the calibration method were evaluated under different scenarios using computer simulations and real experiments. The results demonstrate the proper functioning of the intelligent space and validate the multi-camera calibration method, which also improves robot localization.
Technology-Based Innovations in Child Maltreatment Prevention Programs: Examples from SafeCare®
Authors: Cowart-Osborne Melissa , Jackson Matthew , Chege Elizabeth , Baker Evander , Whitaker Daniel , Self-Brown Shannon
Published: August 2014

Each year, hundreds of thousands of children in the U.S. are victims of child maltreatment. Experts recommend behavioral, skill-based parent training programs as a strategy for the prevention of child abuse and neglect. These programs can be enhanced using innovative technology strategies. This paper presents a brief history of the use of technology in SafeCare®, a home visiting program shown to prevent child neglect and physical abuse, and highlights current work that takes a technology-based hybrid approach to SafeCare delivery. With this unique approach, the provider brings a tablet computer to each session, and the parent interacts with the software to receive psychoeducation and modeling of target skills. The provider and parent then work together to practice the targeted skills until mastery is achieved. Initial findings from ongoing research of both of these strategies indicate that they show potential for improving engagement and use of positive parenting skills for parents and ease of implementation for providers. Future directions for technology enhancements in SafeCare are also presented.
Selection and Characterization of a Novel DNA Aptamer for Label-Free Fluorescence Biosensing of Ochratoxin A
Authors: McKeague Maureen , Velu Ranganathan , Hill Kayla , Bardóczy Viola , Mészáros Tamás , DeRosa Maria
Published: August 2014

Nucleic acid aptamers are emerging as useful molecular recognition tools for food safety monitoring. However, practical and technical challenges limit the number and diversity of available aptamer probes that can be incorporated into novel sensing schemes. This work describes the selection of novel DNA aptamers that bind to the important food contaminant ochratoxin A (OTA). Following 15 rounds of in vitro selection, sequences were analyzed for OTA binding. Two of the isolated aptamers demonstrated high affinity binding and selectivity to this mycotoxin compared to similar food adulterants. These sequences, as well as a truncated aptamer (minimal sequence required for binding), were incorporated into a SYBR® Green I fluorescence-based OTA biosensing scheme. This label-free detection platform is capable of rapid, selective, and sensitive OTA quantification with a limit of detection of 9 nM and linear quantification up to 100 nM.
Population genetics and origin of the native North American agricultural weed waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus; Amaranthaceae)
Authors: Waselkov Katherine E. , Olsen Kenneth M.
Published: August 2014

• Premise of the study: The evolution of invasiveness has been extensively studied in natural ecosystems; however, far less is known about the evolution of agricultural invasiveness, despite the major economic impact of weeds on crop productivity. Examining the population structure of recently arisen weeds can provide insights into evolutionary avenues to invasion of agroecosystems. Weeds that originate from wild plants are the most common yet least frequently studied type of agricultural invasive. Here we address several questions about the origin of the native North American agricultural weed waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus), which invaded corn and soy fields in the midwestern United States in the 20th century.

• Methods: We genotyped 38 populations from across the species range with 10 microsatellite markers and used these data to assess genetic diversity and population structure within and outside the geographical region where waterhemp is agriculturally problematic.

• Key results: We found evidence for two ancestral genetic lineages in our data, supporting the hypothesis that A. tuberculatus was diverging into two evolutionary lineages prior to the 20th century. However, we found no support for the hypothesis that agricultural weed populations arose from admixture of these two lineages after secondary contact. Our data suggest that eastward movement of the western genetic lineage, facilitated by changing agricultural practices, is the source of the agricultural invasion of waterhemp.

• Conclusions: This research demonstrates that agricultural invasion by native, wild plant species can proceed via different evolutionary trajectories from weeds related to domesticated plants, which has implications for evolutionary biology and weed control.
Maize early endosperm growth and development: From fertilization through cell type differentiation
Authors: Leroux Brian M. , Goodyke Austin J. , Schumacher Katelyn I. , Abbott Chelsi P. , Clore Amy M. , Yadegari Ramin , Larkins Brian A. , Dannenhoffer Joanne M.
Published: August 2014

• Premise of the study: Given the worldwide economic importance of maize endosperm, it is surprising that its development is not the most comprehensively studied of the cereals. We present detailed morphometric and cytological descriptions of endosperm development in the maize inbred line B73, for which the genome has been sequenced, and compare its growth with four diverse Nested Association Mapping (NAM) founder lines.

• Methods: The first 12 d of B73 endosperm development were described using semithin sections of plastic‐embedded kernels and confocal microscopy. Longitudinal sections were used to compare endosperm length, thickness, and area.

• Key results: Morphometric comparison between Arizona‐ and Michigan‐grown B73 showed a common pattern. Early endosperm development was divided into four stages: coenocytic, cellularization through alveolation, cellularization through partitioning, and differentiation. We observed tightly synchronous nuclear divisions in the coenocyte, elucidated that the onset of cellularization was coincident with endosperm size, and identified a previously undefined cell type (basal intermediate zone, BIZ). NAM founders with small mature kernels had larger endosperms (0–6 d after pollination) than lines with large mature kernels.

• Conclusions: Our B73‐specific model of early endosperm growth links developmental events to relative endosperm size, while accounting for diverse growing conditions. Maize endosperm cellularizes through alveolation, then random partitioning of the central vacuole. This unique cellularization feature of maize contrasts with the smaller endosperms of Arabidopsis, barley, and rice that strictly cellularize through repeated alveolation. NAM analysis revealed differences in endosperm size during early development, which potentially relates to differences in timing of cellularization across diverse lines of maize.
Adaptive plasticity to heterogeneous environments increases capacity for division of labor in the clonal invader Carpobrotus edulis (Aizoaceae)
Authors: Roiloa Sergio R. , Rodriguez‐Echeverria Susana , Lopez‐Otero Aaron , Retuerto Ruben , Freitas Helena
Published: August 2014

• Premise of the study: Clonality has been proposed as an important mechanism favoring plant invasions, but few studies have been conducted to determine the role of clonal traits on successful invaders. An interesting trait associated with clonality is the capacity for division of labor. Division of labor requires a negative spatial correlation between the availabilities of two essential resources and ramet specialization for locally abundant resources to increase the overall performance of the clone. We hypothesized that the capacity for division of labor in the clonal invader Carpobrotus edulis will be selected in those clones from patchy environments where this trait could be an advantage.

• Methods: Morphological and physiological division of labor was compared between clones from coastal sand dunes (where nutrients and light show a negative spatial covariance) and from rocky coasts (where nutrients and light are homogenously distributed).

• Key results: Clones from coastal sand dunes showed a greater capacity than clones from rocky coasts for division of labor. Specialization for abundance was found at the morphological (biomass allocated to roots) and the physiological (photochemical efficiency) level.

• Conclusions: The greater ability for division of labor in the patchy environment where the presence of this trait would be more beneficial demonstrates the existence of local adaptation and suggests that rapid evolution in clonal traits could be contributing to the success of the invader C. edulis. This study is one of the few showing that division of labor is under selection and is the first reporting adaptive division of labor of an aggressive invader.