bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pneumonectomy combined with SU5416 induces severe pulmonary hypertension in rats
Authors: Happé C. M. , de Raaf M. A. , Rol N. , Schalij I. , Vonk-Noordegraaf A. , Westerhof N. , Voelkel N. F. , de Man F. S. , Bogaard H. J.
Published: April 2016

The SU5416 + hypoxia (SuHx) rat model is a commonly used model of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension. While it is known that exposure to hypoxia can be replaced by another type of hit (e.g., ovalbumin sensitization) it is unknown whether abnormal pulmonary blood flow (PBF), which has long been known to invoke pathological changes in the pulmonary vasculature, can replace the hypoxic exposure. Here we studied if a combination of SU5416 administration combined with pneumonectomy (PNx), to induce abnormal PBF in the contralateral lung, is sufficient to induce severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in rats. Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to SuPNx protocol (SU5416 + combined with left pneumonectomy) or standard SuHx protocol, and comparisons between models were made at week 2 and 6 postinitiation. Both SuHx and SuPNx models displayed extensive obliterative vascular remodeling leading to an increased right ventricular systolic pressure at week 6. Similar inflammatory response in the lung vasculature of both models was observed alongside increased endothelial cell proliferation and apoptosis. This study describes the SuPNx model, which features severe PAH at 6 wk and could serve as an alternative to the SuHx model. Our study, together with previous studies on experimental models of pulmonary hypertension, shows that the typical histopathological findings of PAH, including obliterative lesions, inflammation, increased cell turnover, and ongoing apoptosis, represent a final common pathway of a disease that can evolve as a consequence of a variety of insults to the lung vasculature.
Chronic endurance exercise training offsets the age-related attenuation in contraction-induced rapid vasodilation
Authors: Hughes William E. , Ueda Kenichi , Casey Darren P.
Published: April 2016

Aging is associated with attenuated contraction-induced rapid onset vasodilation (ROV). We sought to examine whether chronic exercise training would improve ROV in older adults. Additionally, we examined whether a relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and ROV exists in young and older adults. Chronically exercise-trained older adults ( n = 16; 66 ± 2 yr, mean ± SE) performed single muscle contractions in the forearm and leg at various intensities. Brachial and femoral artery diameter and blood velocity were measured using Doppler ultrasound. Vascular conductance (VC) was calculated as the quotient of blood flow (ml/min) and mean arterial pressure (mmHg). These data were compared with our previously published work from an identical protocol in 16 older untrained (66 ± 1 yr, mean ± SE) and 14 young (23 ± 1 yr) adults. Peak (ΔVCpeak) and total vasodilator (VCtotal) responses were greater in trained compared with untrained older adults across leg exercise intensities ( P < 0.05). There were no differences in responses between trained older and young adults in the arm or leg at any exercise intensity ( P > 0.05). Comparison of ΔVCpeakin a subset of subjects at an absolute workload in the leg revealed that trained older adults exhibited augmented responses relative to untrained older adults. Exercise capacity (V̇o2 peak) was associated with ΔVCpeakand VCtotalacross arm ( r = 0.59–0.64) and leg exercise intensities ( r = 0.55–0.68, P < 0.05) in older adults. Our data demonstrate that 1) chronic exercise training improves ROV in the arm and leg of trained older adults, such that age-related differences in ROV are abolished, and 2) VO2peak is associated with ΔVCpeakresponses in both limbs of older adults.
Short-term aerobic exercise training improves gut peptide regulation in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Kullman Emily L. , Kelly Karen R. , Haus Jacob M. , Fealy Ciaran E. , Scelsi Amanda R. , Pagadala Mangesh R. , Flask Chris A. , McCullough Arthur J. , Kirwan John P.
Published: April 2016

Obesity-related nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now the most common chronic liver disease. Exercise and diet are uniformly prescribed treatments for NAFLD; however, there are limited empirical data on the effects of exercise training on metabolic function in these patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate the fasting and glucose-stimulated adaptation of gut peptides to short-term aerobic exercise training in patients with NAFLD. Twenty-two obese subjects, 16 with NAFLD [body mass index (BMI), 33.2 ± 1.1 (SE) kg/m2] and 6 obese controls (BMI, 31.3 ± 1.2 kg/m2), were enrolled in a supervised aerobic exercise program (60 min/day, 85% of their heart rate maximum, for 7 days). Fasting and glucose-stimulated glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-17-36) and peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYYTotal) concentrations in plasma were assessed before and after the exercise program. Initially, the NAFLD group had higher fasting PYY (NAFLD = 117 ± 18.6, control = 47.2 ± 6.4 pg/ml, P < 0.05) and GLP-1 (NAFLD = 12.4 ± 2.2, control = 6.2 ± 0.2 pg/ml, P < 0.05) and did not significantly increase GLP-1 or PYY in response to glucose ingestion. After the exercise program, fasting GLP-1 was reduced in the NAFLD group (10.7 ± 2.0 pg/ml, P < 0.05). Furthermore, exercise training led to significant increase in the acute (0–30 min) PYY and GLP-1 responses to glucose in the NAFLD group, while the total area under the glucose-stimulated GLP-1 response curve was reduced in both NAFLD and controls ( P < 0.05). In summary, 7 days of vigorous aerobic exercise normalized the dynamic PYY and GLP-1 responses to nutrient stimulation and reduced the GLP-1 response in NAFLD, suggesting that exercise positively modulates gut hormone regulation in obese adults with NAFLD.
OX40+ Regulatory T Cells in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Suppress Effector T-Cell Responses and Associate with Metastatic Potential
Authors: Lai Chester , August Suzannah , Albibas Amel , Behar Ramnik , Cho Shin-Young , Polak Marta E. , Theaker Jeffrey , MacLeod Amanda S. , French Ruth R. , Glennie Martin J. , Al-Shamkhani Aymen , Healy Eugene
Published: April 2016

Purpose: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the most common human cancer with metastatic potential. Despite T cells accumulating around cSCCs, these tumors continue to grow and persist. To investigate reasons for failure of T cells to mount a protective response in cSCC, we focused on regulatory T cells (Tregs) as this suppressive population is well represented among the infiltrating lymphocytes.

Experimental Design: Flow cytometry was conducted on cSCC lymphocytes and in vitro functional assays were performed using sorted tumoral T cells. Lymphocyte subsets in primary cSCCs were quantified immunohistochemically.

Results: FOXP3+ Tregs were more frequent in cSCCs than in peripheral blood (P < 0.0001, n = 86 tumors). Tumoral Tregs suppressed proliferation of tumoral effector CD4+ (P = 0.005, n = 10 tumors) and CD8+ T cells (P = 0.043, n = 9 tumors) and inhibited IFNγ secretion by tumoral effector T cells (P = 0.0186, n = 11 tumors). The costimulatory molecule OX40 was expressed predominantly on tumoral Tregs (P < 0.0001, n = 15 tumors) and triggering OX40 with an agonist anti-OX40 antibody overcame the suppression exerted by Tregs, leading to increased tumoral effector CD4+ lymphocyte proliferation (P = 0.0098, n = 10 tumors). Tregs and OX40+ lymphocytes were more abundant in primary cSCCs that metastasized than in primary cSCCs that had not metastasized (n = 48 and n = 49 tumors, respectively).

Conclusions: Tregs in cSCCs suppress effector T-cell responses and are associated with subsequent metastasis, suggesting a key role for Tregs in cSCC development and progression. OX40 agonism reversed the suppressive effects of Tregs in vitro, suggesting that targeting OX40 could benefit the subset of cSCC patients at high risk of metastasis. Clin Cancer Res; 22(16); 4236–48. ©2016 AACR.
The Tumor Suppressive Role of MiRNA-509-5p by Targeting FOXM1 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Ma Ning , Zhang Weihua , Qiao Chenhui , Luo Hong , Zhang Xin , Liu Donghai , Zang Suhua , Zhang Liang , Bai Jingyun
Published: April 2016

Background/Aims: Deregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) expression is a frequent event in cancer development and progression. Recent studies have implied that abnormal expression of miRNAs is frequently observed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, we examined the levels and biological functions of miR-509-5p in NSCLC. Methods: The levels of miR-509-5p were measured by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-PCR) in NSCLC cell lines and NSCLC tissues along with adjacent normal tissues. Cell viability was analyzed by MTT and colony formation assay. Cell migration and invasion were evaluated by transwell and wound healing assay. In addition, we predicted the putative targets of miR-509-5p by bioinformatics analyses. Moreover, by luciferase-reporter assay, we analyzed the relationship between miR-509-5p and the target in NSCLC cells. Results: miR-509-5p expression was significantly reduced in NSCLC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. In addition, miR-509-5p decreased cell proliferation, migration and invasive capability of NSCLC cells. Moreover, we found that FOXM1 was a putative target of miR-509-5p. Enforced miR-509-5p expression in NSCLC cells reduced both mRNA and protein levels of FOXM1. Furthermore, dual-luciferase reporter assay showed miR-509-5p could bind to the 3' untranslational regions of FOXM1 mRNA. Furthermore, overexpression of FOXM1 reversed cell viability, migration, invasion and vimentin levels suppressed by miR-509-5p mimics in H1299 cells. Conclusions: miR-509-5p exerts tumor-suppressive effects by attenuating FOXM1 in NSCLC. Collectively, these findings provide further evidence that miR-509-5p may be considered as a novel and potential target for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of NSCLC.
The Novel H7N9 Influenza A Virus NS1 Induces p53-Mediated Apoptosis of A549 Cells
Authors: Yan Yinxia , Du Yongming , Wang Gefei , Deng Yuxue , Li Rui , Li Kangsheng
Published: April 2016

Background: H7N9, emerged as an avian influenza virus outbreak in Eastern China in early 2013, and represented another major threat to global health. Roles of its NS1 protein, an essential viral factor, in regulating apoptosis remain unknown. Methods: Apoptotic effect and features of H7N9/NS1 in the human A549 alveolar basal epithelial cell line were examined by caspase 3/7 activity assay and western blotting of apoptotic associated proteins. Effects of H7N9/NS1on mitochondrial membrane potential were investigated by flow cytometry. Results: The expression of H7N9/NS1 in A549 cells activated caspase 3/7 and increased the protein levels of cleaved caspase 7 and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). H7N9/NS1-expressing A549 cells displayed a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential. In addition, H7N9/NS1 increased the protein levels of total p53, p53 phosphorylated at Ser46 and Ser37, activated caspase 9, and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Conclusion: Our results suggest that H7N9/NS1 protein causes the accumulation of p53 by increasing phosphorylation levels of p53 and the induction of mitochondrial dysfunction, which may contribute to H7N9/NS1-induced apoptosis in A549 cells.
Neuroserpin Protects Rat Neurons and Microglia-Mediated Inflammatory Response Against Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation- and Reoxygenation Treatments in an In Vitro Study
Authors: Yang Xuelian , Asakawa Tetsuya , Han Sha , Liu Ling , Li Wei , Wu Weiwen , Luo Yunhe , Cao Wenjie , Cheng Xin , Xiao Baoguo , Namba Hiroki , Lu Chuanzhen , Dong Qiang , Wang Liang
Published: April 2016

Background/Aims: Neuroserpin (NSP) is known for its neuroprotective role in cerebral ischemic animal models and patients. Our laboratory conducted a series of investigations on the neuroprotection of NSP in different cells in the brain. In the present study, we further observe the effects of NSP on neurons and microglia-mediated inflammatory response following oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), and explore possible mechanisms related to neuroprotection of OGD in the central nervous system (CNS). Methods: Neurons and microglia from neonatal rats were treated with OGD followed by reoxygenation (OGD/R). To confirm the effects of NSP, the neuronal survival, neuronal apoptosis, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were measured in cultured neurons. Furthermore, the levels of IL-1β and nitric oxide (NO) release were also detected in cultured microglia. The possible mechanisms for the neuroprotective effect of NSP were explored using Western blot analysis. Results: NSP administration can reverse abnormal variations in neurons and microglia-mediated inflammatory response induced by OGD/R processes. The neuronal survival rate, neuronal apoptosis rate, and LDH release were significantly improved by NSP administration in neurons. Simultaneously, the release of IL-1β and NO were significantly reduced by NSP in microglia. Western blot showed that the expression of ERK, P38, and JNK was upregulated in microglia by the OGD/R treatment, and these effects were significantly inhibited by NSP. Conclusion: These data verified the neuroprotective effects of NSP on neurons and microglia-mediated inflammatory response. Inhibition of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways might play a potential role in NSP neuroprotection on microglia-mediated inflammatory response, which needs further verification.
Antibacterial Activity of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Argon Plasma against 78 Genetically Different (mecA, luk-P, agr or Capsular Polysaccharide Type) Staphylococcus aureus Strains
Authors: Matthes Rutger , Lührman Anne , Holtfreter Silva , Kolata Julia , Radke Dörte , Hübner Nils-Olaf , Assadian Ojan , Kramer Axel
Published: April 2016

Previous studies on the antimicrobial activity of cold atmospheric pressure argon plasma showed varying effects against mecA+ or mecA-Staphylococcus aureus strains. This observation may have important clinical and epidemiological implications. Here, the antibacterial activity of argon plasma was investigated against 78 genetically different S. aureus strains, stratified by mecA, luk-P, agr1-4, or the cell wall capsule polysaccharide types 5 and 8. kINPen09® served as the plasma source for all experiments. On agar plates, mecA+luk-P-S. aureus strains showed a decreased susceptibility against plasma compared to other S. aureus strains. This study underlines the high complexity of microbial defence against antimicrobial treatment and confirms a previously reported strain-dependent susceptibility of S. aureus to plasma treatment.
The Role of Platelets in Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Vena Gino Antonio , Cassano Nicoletta , Marzano Angelo Valerio , Asero Riccardo
Published: April 2016

Background: Platelets are implicated in many pathophysiological processes, including inflammation and immunity. Ever-growing evidence suggests the active involvement of platelets in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory disorders, including cutaneous inflammatory diseases. A limited number of studies have investigated the role of platelets in chronic urticaria (CU). In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the role of platelets in chronic spontaneous and inducible urticarias. Methods: A literature search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar, and the references of relevant literature were reviewed. Results: Overall, in CU patients, conflicting results have been obtained from the assessment of platelet indices, such as mean platelet volume, platelet count and distribution width, as well as markers of platelet aggregation and activation. Nevertheless, a few studies showed significant changes of such parameters in CU patients compared to controls, in apparent correlation with clinical severity, autoreactivity and/or inflammatory status. Conclusions: In the absence of definitive conclusions, the pathogenic role of platelets in CU needs to be further explored. Platelets might represent a link between inflammation, coagulation and histamine release in the pathophysiological network of CU.
Distribution of Telomeric Sequences (TTAGGG)n in Rearranged Chromosomes of Phyllotine Rodents (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae)
Authors: Lanzone Cecilia , Labaroni Carolina , Suárez Natalia , Rodríguez Daniela , Herrera Macarena L. , Bolzán Alejandro D.
Published: April 2016

Phyllotines are sigmodontine rodents endemic to South America with broad genetic variability, Robertsonian polymorphisms being the most frequent. Moreover, this taxon includes a species with multiple sex chromosomes, which is infrequent in mammals. However, molecular cytogenetic techniques have never been applied to phyllotines to elucidate their karyotypic evolution. We studied the chromosomes of 4 phyllotine species using FISH with a pantelomeric probe (TTAGGG)n. Graomys griseoflavus, Eligmodontia puerulus, and E. morgani are polymorphic for Robertsonian translocations, whereas Salinomys delicatus possesses XX/ XY1Y2 sex chromosomes. Telomeric signals were detected at both ends of all chromosomes of the studied species. In S. delicatus interstitial telomeric sequences (ITS) were observed in the 3 major chromosome pairs, which are equidistant from one of the telomeres in these chromosomes. These results suggest that ITS are important in the reshuffling of the highly derived karyotype of S. delicatus. Considering the phylogeny of phyllotines, the Robertsonian rearrangements of G. griseoflavus, E. puerulus, and E. morgani possibly represent chromosome fusions which have occurred independently. The pericentromeric regions of the biarmed chromosomes of these species do not contain telomeric sequences characteristic for strict fusions of recent origin, suggesting a common pattern of telomeric repeat loss during chromosomal evolution of these rodents.
Artificial Urinary Sphincters for Treatment of Urinary Incontinence in Elderly Males
Authors: Raup Valary T. , Eswara Jairam R. , Marshall Stephen D. , Vetter Joel , Brandes Steven B.
Published: April 2016

Introduction: We sought to examine the role of advanced age (defined as >70 years), impaired cognitive function, and decreased manual dexterity in the rates of re-operation (revision or replacement) of artificial urinary sphincters (AUS). Methods: From 1988 to 2012, 213 men underwent virgin AUS placements. Failure was defined as a revision performed for stress incontinence and replacement/exploration performed for urethral erosion/infection or mechanical failure. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed to compare failure rates with age and Cox proportional hazard models were used to test associations. Results: Advanced age was not associated with overall failure (p = 0.48), erosion/infection failure (p = 0.65), recurrent/persistent incontinence failure (p = 0.08), or mechanical failure (p = 0.36). Controlling for age, patients with cognitive dysfunction or decreased manual dexterity showed a higher rate of overall failure (p = 0.01). Conclusions: AUS placement is an excellent option to treat stress urinary incontinence in elderly men with intact cognition and good manual dexterity. AUS placement should be performed with caution in patients with impaired cognitive function or decreased manual dexterity, and additional effort should be made to identify these conditions both before and after surgery.
Clinical Outcomes after Selective Fetal Reduction of Complicated Monochorionic Twins with Radiofrequency Ablation and Bipolar Cord Coagulation
Authors: Peng Ruan , Xie Hong-Ning , Lin Mei-Fang , Yang Jian-Bo , Zhou Yi , Chen Hui-Qing , Zhu Yun-Xiao
Published: April 2016

Aims: To review pregnancy outcomes, complication rates and neonatal neural development of selective termination procedures for complicated monochorionic (MC) twins. Methods: This was a retrospective review of the pregnancies that underwent selective reduction with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and bipolar cord coagulation (BCC) in our institution. Results: Forty-eight cases underwent selective reduction with BCC and the remaining 45 with RFA. Overall survival was not statistically different between the RFA and BCC groups (71.1 and 62.5%, p = 0.379). With regard to the indications, the survival rates were not significantly different for twin to twin transfusion syndrome, twin reversed arterial perfusion, discordant anomalies and selective intrauterine growth restriction. Preterm premature rupture of membrane was not statistically different between the BCC and RFA groups (47.9 and 33.3%, p = 0.153). Five foetuses presented with abnormal middle cerebral artery-peak systolic velocity in the BCC group and 4 in the RFA group (p = 0.829). In the BCC group, neurological injury was detected in 2 neonates, presenting with cerebral dysplasia on MR scanning. In the RFA group, intracranial haemorrhage Grade III was detected in one neonate with cranial ultrasound (p = 0.607). Conclusions: Overall survival and complication rates following selective reduction in complicated MC twin pregnancies is similar irrespective of whether the reduction was performed using RFA or BCC. Key Message: It seems that selective reduction in MC pregnancies with RFA does not carry a significant decrease in the overall survival and complication rates than the cases with BCC. According to our data, neurodevelopmental impairment of the co-twins is relatively seldom after selective reduction.
Loss of
Biglycan
Enhances Thrombin Generation in
Apolipoprotein E
-Deficient Mice
Authors: Grandoch Maria , Kohlmorgen Christina , Melchior-Becker Ariane , Feldmann Kathrin , Homann Susanne , Müller Julia , Kiene Lena-Sophia , Zeng-Brouwers Jinyang , Schmitz Friederike , Nagy Nadine , Polzin Amin , Gowert Nina S. , Elvers Margitta , Skroblin Philipp , Yin Xiaoke , Mayr Manuel , Schaefer Liliana , Tannock Lisa R. , Fischer Jens W.
Published: April 2016

Objective—

Thrombin signaling promotes atherosclerosis by initiating inflammatory events indirectly through platelet activation and directly via protease-activated receptors. Therefore, endogenous thrombin inhibitors may be relevant modulators of atheroprogression and cardiovascular risk. In addition, endogenous thrombin inhibitors may affect the response to non–vitamin K-dependent oral anticoagulants. Here, the question was addressed whether the small leucine-rich proteoglycan biglycan acts as an endogenous thrombin inhibitor in atherosclerosis through activation of heparin cofactor II.

Approach and Results—

Biglycan concentrations were elevated in the plasma of patients with acute coronary syndrome and in male
Apolipoprotein E
-deficient (
ApoE
−/−
) mice. Biglycan was detected in the glycocalyx of capillaries and the subendothelial matrix of arterioles of
ApoE
−/−
mice and in atherosclerotic plaques. Thereby a vascular compartment is provided that may mediate the endothelial and subendothelial activation of heparin cofactor II through biglycan.
ApoE
and
Bgn
double-deficient (
ApoE
−/−
/Bgn
−/0
) mice showed higher activity of circulating thrombin, increased platelet activation and platelet adhesion in vivo, supporting a role of biglycan in balancing thrombin activity. Furthermore, concentrations of circulating cytokines and aortic macrophage content were elevated in
ApoE
−/−
/Bgn
−/0
mice, suggesting a proinflammatory phenotype. Elevated platelet activation and macrophage accumulation were reversed by treating
ApoE
−/−
/Bgn
−/0
mice with the thrombin inhibitor argatroban. Ultimately,
ApoE
−/−
/Bgn
−/0
mice developed aggravated atherosclerosis.

Conclusions—

The present results indicate that biglycan plays a previously unappreciated protective role during the progression of atherosclerosis by inhibiting thrombin activity, platelet activation, and finally macrophage-mediated plaque inflammation.
Vitamin K–Dependent Protein Activity and Incident Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Danziger John , Young Rebekah L. , Shea M. Kyla , Tracy Russell P. , Ix Joachim H. , Jenny Nancy S. , Mukamal Kenneth J.
Published: April 2016

Objective—

Vitamin K–dependent proteins (VKDPs), which require post-translational modification to achieve biological activity, seem to contribute to thrombus formation, vascular calcification, and vessel stiffness. Whether VKDP activity is prospectively associated with incident cardiovascular disease has not been studied.

Approach and Results—

VKDP activity was determined by measuring circulating des-γ-carboxy prothrombin concentrations in a random sample of 709 multiethnic adults free of cardiovascular disease drawn from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Lower des-γ-carboxy prothrombin concentrations reflect greater VKDP activity. Subjects were followed up for the risk of ischemic cardiovascular disease (coronary heart disease, stroke, and fatal cardiovascular disease) for 11.0 years of follow-up. A total of 75 first ischemic CVD events occurred during follow-up. The incidence of ischemic cardiovascular disease increased progressively across des-γ-carboxy prothrombin quartiles, with event rates of 5.9 and 11.7 per 1000 person-years in the lowest and highest quartiles. In analyses adjusted for traditional cardiovascular risk factors and measures of vitamin K intake, a doubling of des-γ-carboxy prothrombin concentration was associated with a 1.53 (95% confidence interval, 1.09–2.13;
P
=0.008) higher risk of incident ischemic cardiovascular disease. The association was consistent across strata of participants with diabetes mellitus, hypertension, renal impairment, and low vitamin K nutritional intake.

Conclusions—

In this sample of middle-aged and older adults, VKDP activity was associated with incident ischemic cardiovascular events. Further studies to understand the role of this large class of proteins in cardiovascular disease are warranted.
The role of oxytocin on peaceful associations and sociality in mammals
Authors: Romero Teresa , Onishi Kenji , Hasegawa Toshikazu
Published: April 2016

There is currently substantial evidence indicating that oxytocin, a hypothalamus neuropeptide, modulates many forms of social behaviour and cognition in both human and non-human animals. The vast majority of animal research, however, has concentrated on maternal attachment and reproductive pair-bonds. In order to understand the neurochemical foundations of peaceful associations and sociality, oxytocin’s contribution to other types of social bonds, as well as to individual variation in sociality, should also be explored. Here, we summarise the most current studies that have investigated oxytocin’s role in regulating stable peaceful associations not directly related to mating. We also provide an overview on oxytocin’s role in support of specific social structures, and propose a novel research approach to evaluate the relationship between individual variation in social tendencies and variation in the oxytociergic system. We conclude by discussing avenues of future investigation in the biological substrates of sociality.
Vocal repertoire of adult captive red pandas (Ailurus fulgens)
Authors: Cao Dandan , Zhou Hong , Wei Wei , Lei Miaowen , Yuan Shibin , Qi Dunwu , Zhang Zejun
Published: April 2016

Vocal signals are a common communication tool used to recognize different individuals, advertise fertile phases or discriminate amongst potential mates. Therefore, a thorough understanding of vocal repertoires forms the basis for investigating the role of acoustic signaling in the sexual and social behavior of any animal. Red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) are classified as a vulnerable species and have declined by as much as 40% over the past 50 years in China. Adult red pandas are known to call frequently during mating and aggressive encounters; however, no quantitative description of their vocalizations has been attempted. Here, the vocal repertoire of captive red pandas was investigated. Acoustical and statistical analyses indicated seven vocalization types during the breeding season: “growl”, “bark”, “squeal”, “bleat”, “hoot”, “grunt” and “twitter”; the spectrogram for each vocalization type was extracted. The type of vocalizations produced varied with behavioral state and implies different functional contexts. Future studies are needed to uncover the functions of red panda vocalizations in individual recognition, sexual selection and social interaction.
In the General Interest of Peace? British International Lawyers and the Spanish Civil War
Authors: de la Rasilla del Moral Ignacio
Published: April 2016

This article reviews the core issues and different doctrinal positions present in the international legal debates triggered by the Spanish Civil War. It pays particular attention to the contributions of the first two British judges at the International Court of Justice, A. D. McNair (1946–1955) and H. Lauterpacht (1955–1960) to these debates. Their writings can be seen as respectively representative of the two stages through which British international lawyers went in the international legal debates on the Spanish Civil War. The article concludes with an analysis of the case for British “benevolent neutrality to the Nationalists” in the Spanish Civil War, reviewing the underlying motives which historians have highlighted as lurking behind the British-led non-intervention policy in the war.
Five species of the family Cyproideidae (Crustacea: Amphipoda) from Japan, with the description of a new genus and two new species
Authors: ARIYAMA HIROYUKI
Published: April 2016

Five species of the family Cyproideidae (Crustacea: Amphipoda) are described from shallow sea in Japan. Cyproidea liodactyla Hirayama, 1978 was collected from Kanagawa and Shizuoka Prefectures and Ariake Sea. Morphological character of the antenna 1 in these specimens is different from the original description. Examining the paratypes of C. liodactyla, the shape of the antenna 1 in the holotype is revealed to be abnormal. Cyproidea okinawensis sp. nov. was collected from Okinawa Island. Its morphological characters resemble C. liodactyla and C. robusta Ren, 2006; however, this new species is different from the former in the smaller eyes, the narrower coxa 5 and the coloration, and from the latter in the ovoid telson. Metacyproidea gen. nov. is established with M. makie sp. nov. from Hachijo Island in Tokyo Prefecture as its type species. This new genus resembles Cyproidea, especially in the peduncular article 2 of antenna 1 with a distinct distal tooth and the posterodorsal end of urosomites with a strong projection. However, Metacyproidea can be distinguished from Cyproidea by the coalesced urosomites 2–3 and the antenna 1 with a 10–16-articulated flagellum. Moolapheonoides acutifalcatus Kobayashi & Ishimaru, 2005 and Terepeltopes dolichorhunia Hirayama, 1983 were also collected from Wakayama and Fukui Prefectures and Kanagawa, Shizuoka and Yamaguchi Prefectures, respectively. A key to species of the family Cyproideidae in Japan is provided.
Three new species of Laonice (Polychaete: Spionidae) from West and Southwest Africa
Authors: SIKORSKI Andrey , PAVLOVA LYUDMILA
Published: April 2016

Three new species of Laonice (Polychaete: Spionidae): L. galatheae, L. cricketae, L. olgae—are described from South and West Africa (along the coast from 31°14.1ʼS to 04°44ʼN) based on Danish and South African zoological collections. Arguments relative to the morphological heterogeneity of the genus Laonice are advanced. The arguments are based on the following characters: degree of fusion of prostomium with peristomium at the anterior margin, degree of variability of all numerical characters, arrangement of anterior capillaries in two or more vertical rows, presence or absence of transversal dorsal membranous crests in the “post nuchal organ” and presence of genital pouches only on very limited number of segments or other pattern. Authors think it is obvious today an existence of at least four morphologically separate groups of species inside the Laonice-genus: “L. cirrata”, “L. sarsi”, “L. appelloefi” and “L. norgensis” groups. Eight species names from 34 valid names in the genus are still with unclear affiliation. L. quadridentata is treated now as a junior synonym of L. brevicornis. An opinion is expressed about L. insolita not belonging to the genus Laonice because of discrepancy the generic diagnosis.
The genus Triomicrus Sharp from central and southwestern China (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae), and a revised key to the Chinese species
Authors: SHEN JIA-WEI , YIN ZI-WEI
Published: April 2016

Five species of the genus Triomicrus Sharp from central and southwestern China are recognized, two of them are described as new: T. mangshanensis sp. n. from Hunan, and T. nabanhensis sp. n. from Yunnan. New distributional records for T. ludificator Löbl, Kurbatov & Nomura, T. mirus Shen & Yin, and T. punctifrons Löbl, Kurbatov & Nomura are given. A revised key to the Triomicrus species of China is presented.
Contribution to the knowledge of the genus Neuraphes Thomson (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae) in China
Authors: ZHOU DE-YAO , LI LI-ZHEN
Published: April 2016

Two new species of the ant-like stone beetle genus Neuraphes Thomson, 1859 (Scydmaeninae: Glandulariini) from Sichuan Province are described: N. (Pararaphes) shu sp. n. and N. (Pararaphes) xilingensis sp. n., their aedeagi are illustrated. A single female of the nominotypical subgenus from Heilongjiang Province is also recorded.
Studies of Peruvian Ptiliidae (Coleoptera) 3: the genus Discheramocephalus Johnson including six new species, and validation of the unavailable generic name Phytotelmatrichis Darby and Chaboo
Authors: DARBY MICHAEL
Published: April 2016

Six new species of Discheramocephalus Johnson are described and figured: D. angustus sp. n., D. capac sp. n., D. inretitus sp. n., D. interfusus sp. n., D. malalae sp. n. and D. parvus sp. n.. The insects were collected by Dr Caroline Chaboo and her students at the University of Kansas as part of a programme to compile an inventory of leaf beetles in Peru and are the first records of the genus from the country. A key is provided.                The unavailable genus Phytotelmatrichis Darby & Chaboo is made available from this publication, with Phytotelmatrichis peruviensis Darby & Chaboo 2015 as its type species.
Extreme Low-Level Updrafts and Wind Speeds Measured by Dropsondes in Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Stern Daniel P. , Bryan George H. , Aberson Sim D.
Published: April 2016

Previous studies have found surprisingly strong vertical motions in low levels of some tropical cyclones. In this study, all available dropsondes (12 000) within tropical cyclones during 1997–2013 are examined, in order to create a dataset of the most extreme updrafts (10 m s−1; 169 sondes) and wind speeds (90 m s−1; 64 sondes). It is shown that extreme low-level (0–3 km) updrafts are ubiquitous within intense (category 4 and 5) tropical cyclones, and that few such updrafts have been observed within weaker storms. These extreme updrafts, which are almost exclusively found within the eyewall just inward of the radius of maximum winds, sometimes occur in close association with extreme horizontal wind speeds. Consistent with previous studies, it is suggested that both the extremes in vertical velocity and wind speed are associated with small-scale (1 km) vortices that exist along the eye–eyewall interface. As a substantial number of updrafts are found within a kilometer of the surface, it can be shown that it is implausible for buoyancy to be the primary mechanism for vertical acceleration. Additionally, the azimuthal distribution of both the extreme updrafts and wind speeds is strongly associated with the orientation of the environmental vertical wind shear.
Health Care Information Technology, Work Organization, and Nursing Home Performance
Authors: Hitt Lorin M. , Tambe Prasanna
Published: April 2016

The authors investigate whether electronic medical record (EMR) systems are associated with higher levels of nursing home performance. Their difference-in-differences analysis is based on a survey of health care information technology (HIT) use in approximately 304 New York State nursing homes, combined with regulatory data from the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Studies (CMS) Nursing Home Compare database and the New York State RHCF-4 financial reports. For nursing home owners, the authors find a positive effect of EMR-system implementation, on the order of 1% higher productivity, 3% greater efficiency, but approximately 2.7% higher cost. They also find that EMR systems amplify the returns to modern workplace organization. Facilities that are one standard deviation higher on a work-organization scale—composed of practices that encourage employee collaboration, decision making, suggestions, and problem solving—have no adverse cost impact of adoption of HIT, and adoption of HIT is associated with a productivity increase of 1.5% or more. They find no evidence of an impact on health care quality.
“Chipping Away at the Issues”
Authors: Mattes Michaela
Published: April 2016

Disputants might resolve their disagreements in a piecemeal fashion, addressing a subset of the issues at a time. How viable is such a strategy? I argue that partial settlements signal the desire to resolve disagreements and can lay the foundation for additional cooperation by building trust and/or demonstrating the benefits of dispute resolution. As a result, partial settlements should be associated with the resolution of remaining disagreements. Yet, scholars have questioned whether pursuing a piecemeal approach may be more harmful than helpful, and a systematic empirical test of these competing predictions is necessary. Using data from worldwide territorial claims between 1919 and 2001, I find a strong positive correlation between partial settlements and comprehensive dispute resolution. In the shorter run, partial settlements are also associated with an increased likelihood for peaceful negotiations, but there is only limited evidence that they reduce conflict before all aspects of the claim are resolved.
Virtual special issue editorial essay: ‘The shitty rent business’: What’s the point of land rent theory?
Authors: Ward Callum , Aalbers Manuel B
Published: April 2016

In this introduction to a virtual special issue on land rent, we sketch out the history of land rent theory, encompassing classical political economy, Marx’s political economy, the marginalist turn and subsequent foundations for urban economics, and the Marxist consensus around rent theory during geography’s spatial turn. We then overview some of the contemporary strands of literature that have developed since the break down of this consensus, namely political economy approaches centred on capital-switching, institutionalism of various stripes, and the rent gap theory. We offer a critical urban political economy perspective and a particular set of arguments run through the review: first, land is not the same as capital but has unique attributes as a factor of production which require a separate theorisation. Second, since the 1970s consensus around land rent and the city dissipated, the critical literature has tended to take the question of why/how the payment exists at all for granted and so has ignored the particular dynamics of rent arising from the idiosyncrasies of land. Amongst the talk of an ‘Anthropocene’ and ‘planetary urbanisation’ it is surprising that the economic fulcrum of the capitalist remaking of geography has fallen so completely off the agenda. It is time to bring rent back into the analysis of land, cities and capitalism.
The Impact of Information on Doctors’ Attitudes Toward Generic Drugs
Authors: Tsaprantzi Aggeliki V. , Kostagiolas Petros , Platis Charalampos , Aggelidis Vassilios P. , Niakas Dimitris
Published: April 2016

The objective of this study is to assess the impact of information on doctors’ attitudes and perceptions toward generics. A cross-sectional survey based on a specially designed 21-item questionnaire was conducted. The survey involved doctors of different specialties working in a public hospital in Greece. The analysis includes descriptive and inferential statistics, reliability and validity tests, as well as structural equation modeling to evaluate the causal model. Statistical analysis was accomplished by using SPSS 20 and Amos 20. A total of 134 questionnaires out of 162 were received, providing a response rate of 82.71%. A number of significant associations were found between information and perceptions about generic medicines with demographic characteristics. It seems that the provision of quality information on generic drugs influences doctors’ attitudes and prescription practices toward generic drugs. This is not a static process but a rather dynamic issue involving information provision policies for strengthening the proper doctors’ attitudes toward generic drugs.
Hispanic Acculturation and Gender Differences in Support and Self-Efficacy for Managing Diabetes
Authors: Mansyur Carol L. , Rustveld Luis O. , Nash Susan G. , Jibaja-Weiss Maria L.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine whether perceived support, social norms, and their association with self-efficacy varied by gender and language-based acculturation in Hispanic men and women with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

A cross-sectional, secondary analysis of baseline survey data from a randomized control trial. Participants were 248 Hispanic patients from 4 community health centers who participated in a culturally targeted intervention for diabetes management. Quantitative statistical methods were used, including chi-square analyses, one-way ANOVA, and multiple regression.

Results

Gender and language both moderated the relationship between social factors and self-efficacy. Regardless of language, better perceived support was associated with improved self-efficacy in women but not men. Dietary norms were associated with self-efficacy in English-speaking men and women, while physical activity norms were associated with self-efficacy for Spanish-speaking women only.

Conclusions

This study builds on previous research by exploring the extent to which the social context of diabetes self-management may vary in its effects depending on gender and acculturation. The findings revealed potentially important differences based on both gender and language, suggesting that interventions must be designed with these differences in mind. Diabetes-specific support from family members, especially spouses, may be especially important for Hispanic women. For both men and women, it may be effective to find creative ways of involving the family in creating healthier social norms and expectations.
Natural Frequencies Do Not Foster Public Understanding of Medical Test Results
Authors: Pighin Stefania , Gonzalez Michel , Savadori Lucia , Girotto Vittorio
Published: April 2016

Major organizations recommend presenting medical test results in terms of natural frequencies, rather than single-event probabilities. The evidence, however, is that natural frequency presentations benefit at most one-fifth of samples of health service users and patients. Only one study reported a substantial benefit of these presentations. Here, we replicate that study, testing online survey respondents. Study 1 attributed the previously reported benefit of natural frequencies to a scoring artifact. Study 2 showed that natural frequencies may elicit evaluations that conflict with the normatively correct one, potentially hindering informed decision making. Ironically, these evaluations occurred less often when respondents reasoned about single-event probabilities. These results suggest caution in promoting natural frequencies as the best way to communicate medical test data to health service users and patients.
Polymorphism 2184A/G in the AGER gene is not associated with diabetic retinopathy in Han Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Li Jian , Cai Wei , Zhang Wei , Zhu Wei-Feng , Liu Ying , Yue Li-Xia , Zhu Ling-Yan , Xiao Jun-Ren , Liu Jian-Ying , Xu Ji-Xiong
Published: April 2016

Objective

To assess the association between the 2184A/G polymorphism in the advanced glycosylation end product-specific receptor ( AGER) gene and the susceptibility to diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Han Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

This cross-sectional genotyping study included patients with T2DM with and without DR. Genotype and allele frequencies of the 2184A/G polymorphism were detected using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment-length polymorphism analysis.

Results

This study included 943 patients with T2DM (285 with DR [DR group] and 658 without DR [NDR group]). There were no significant differences in age, sex, body mass index, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, diastolic blood pressure, glycosylated haemoglobin, fasting blood glucose, postprandial 2-hour blood glucose, and triglycerides between the two groups. The duration of T2DM and systolic blood pressure were significantly increased in the DR group compared with the NDR group. No significant differences were found in allele (A and G) and genotype (AA, AG and GG) frequencies of the 2184A/G polymorphism between the two groups.

Conclusion

The 2184A/G polymorphism in the AGER gene is not associated with DR in Han Chinese patients with T2DM.
Cytologic Criteria for Mast Cell Tumor Grading in Dogs With Evaluation of Clinical Outcome
Authors: Camus M. S. , Priest H. L. , Koehler J. W. , Driskell E. A. , Rakich P. M. , Ilha M. R. , Krimer P. M.
Published: April 2016

A 2-tiered histologic grading scheme for canine cutaneous mast cell tumors (MCTs) is based on morphologic characteristics of neoplastic cells, including karyomegaly, multinucleation, nuclear pleomorphism, and mitotic figures. Aspirates from MCTs may provide the same information more quickly, inexpensively, and less invasively. This study used these criteria to develop a cytologic grading scheme for canine MCTs to predict outcome. Three anatomic pathologists graded histologic samples from 152 canine MCTs. Three clinical pathologists evaluated aspirates from these masses using similar criteria. A cytologic grading scheme was created based on correlation with histologic grade and evaluated with a kappa statistic. Survival was evaluated with Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate hazard ratios for tumor grades and individual grading components. Simple logistic regression tested for relationships between risk factors and mortality. The cytologic grading scheme that best correlated with histology (kappa = 0.725 ± 0.085) classified a tumor as high grade if it was poorly granulated or had at least 2 of 4 findings: mitotic figures, binucleated or multinucleated cells, nuclear pleomorphism, or >50% anisokaryosis. The cytologic grading scheme had 88% sensitivity and 94% specificity relative to histologic grading. Dogs with histologic and cytologic high grade MCTs were 39 times and 25 times more likely to die within the 2-year follow-up period, respectively, than dogs with low grade MCTs. High tumor grade was associated with increased probability of additional tumors or tumor regrowth. This study concluded that cytologic grade is a useful predictor for treatment planning and prognostication.
On the Theoretical and Practical Relevance of the Concept of Gift to the Development of a Non-imperialist Economics
Authors: Cedrini Mario A. , Marchionatti Roberto
Published: April 2016

There is growing awareness of the need for interdisciplinary research on complex issues, but also of the obstacles that historical boundaries between social disciplines pose to such dialogue. It is increasingly recognized that the somewhat constitutive autonomy, the progressive autonomization, and finally the “imperialism” of economics have severely reduced the possibility of interdisciplinary discussion. This paper is a first step towards developing a research program on the foundations of a non-imperialist economics. It investigates gift exchange as a missed opportunity for economics. It aims at showing that, by refusing to tackle the complexity of the gift, economics has not only lost an opportunity to develop a method suitable for the analysis of complex problems, but has voluntarily chosen not to follow a path which would have prevented it from colonizing other disciplines. Reintroducing the concept of gift into the economic discourse may thus represent a required precondition to produce an innovating discourse on economics.