bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
G protein‐coupled receptor 26 immunoreactivity in intranuclear inclusions associated with polyglutamine and intranuclear inclusion body diseases
Authors: Mori Fumiaki , Tanji Kunikazu , Miki Yasuo , Toyoshima Yasuko , Yoshida Mari , Kakita Akiyoshi , Takahashi Hitoshi , Utsumi Jun , Sasaki Hidenao , Wakabayashi Koichi
Published: August 2015

G protein‐coupled receptor 26 (GPR26) is one of the G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), which comprise the largest family of membrane proteins and mediate most of the physiological responses to hormones, neurotransmitters and environmental stimulants. Although GPCRs are considered to play an important role in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders, it is uncertain whether GPR26 is involved in the pathogenesis of polyglutamine and intranuclear inclusion body diseases. We immunohistochemically examined the brain tissues of patients with four polyglutamine diseases (Huntington's disease, dentatorubral‐pallidoluysian atrophy, and spinocerebellar ataxia types 1 and 3) and intranuclear inclusion body disease, and normal control subjects. In controls, anti‐GPR26 antibody immunolabeled the neuronal cytoplasm in a diffuse granular pattern. Neuronal nuclear inclusions in polyglutamine diseases were immunopositive for GPR26. In intranuclear inclusion body disease, GPR26‐positive nuclear inclusions were found in both neurons and glial cells. Marinesco bodies in aged control subjects were also positive for GPR26. Double immunofluorescence analysis revealed co‐localization of GPR26 with polyglutamine or ubiquitin in these nuclear inclusions. These findings suggest that GPR26 may have a common role in the formation or degradation of intranuclear inclusions in several neurodegenerative diseases.
Patient safety education and baccalaureate nursing students' patient safety competency: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lee Nam‐Ju , Jang Haena , Park Su‐Yeon
Published: August 2015

This cross‐sectional study examines baccalaureate nursing programs in South Korea to determine how and to what extent patient safety education was delivered, and to assess nursing students' patient safety competency. The Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) student evaluation survey and a Patient Safety Competency Self‐Evaluation tool were used. We distributed 234 surveys to senior students in four nursing schools; 206 (88%) students responded to the survey. The majority of students (81.6%) reported that they had received patient safety education during coursework. Patient safety education was delivered primarily by lecture rather than during laboratory or simulation sessions. The degree of coverage of QSEN competency and the students' self‐reported competency in total and attitude scores showed statistical differences among nursing schools. Students' attitude score was significantly higher than skill and knowledge. Our results confirm the need to revise the nursing curriculum and to use various teaching methods to deliver patient safety education more comprehensively and effectively. Furthermore, there is a need to develop an integrated approach to ensuring students' balanced competency.
Effect of 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor 4 agonist mosapride on human gastric accommodation
Authors: Amano T. , Ariga H. , Kurematsu A. , Yamato S. , Morioka S. , Masaka A. , Kanazawa M. , Fukudo S.
Published: August 2015

Background

Impaired gastric accommodation is one of the major features of functional dyspepsia. Mosapride citrate is a 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor 4 (5‐HT4) agonist, which is shown to improve upper abdominal symptoms. However, effect of mosapride on gastric accommodation was not clear. We tested the hypothesis that mosapride enhances the gastric accommodation in normal individuals.

Methods

Fourteen male healthy volunteers completed this study. Single administration of mosapride or placebo was performed randomly with more than 1‐week interval. Subjects swallowed a triple‐lumen polyvinyl tube with a polyethylene bag. The bag was positioned in the proximal stomach and the minimal distending pressure (MDP) was determined. The ramp distension starting from the MDP was then performed and subjects were instructed to score their perception using ordinate scales. Next the intra‐bag pressure was set at MDP + 2 mmHg and a liquid meal was administered 30 min later, and the intra‐bag volume was recorded for 60 min. We compared the MDP, perception scores, and the intra‐bag volume changes by administering placebo and mosapride.

Key Results

Minimal distending pressure was not significantly different in subjects receiving mosapride or placebo. Treatment with mosapride had no effect on intra‐bag pressures or volumes inducing first sensation or discomfort. Gastric accommodation, expressed as the difference between pre‐ and postmeal intra‐bag volumes, and the percent change of the intra‐bag volumes by the meal was significantly enhanced by mosapride compared with placebo.

Conclusions & Inferences

This is the first study clearly demonstrating that single administration of 5‐HT4 agonist can enhance gastric accommodation in humans. (Umin.ac.jp, number UMIN000014063)
A STRUCTURALLY BASED ANALYTIC MODEL OF GROWTH AND BIOMASS DYNAMICS IN SINGLE SPECIES STANDS OF CONIFERS
Authors: TAUSCH ROBIN J.
Published: August 2015

A theoretically based analytic model of plant growth in single species conifer communities based on the species fully occupying a site and fully using the site resources is introduced. Model derivations result in a single equation simultaneously describes changes over both, different site conditions (or resources available), and over time for each variable for each species. Leaf area or biomass, or a related plant community measurement, such as site class, can be used as an indicator of available site resources. Relationships over time (years) are determined by the interaction between a stable foliage biomass in balance with site resources, and by the increase in the total heterotrophic biomass of the stand with increasing tree size. This structurally based, analytic model describes the relationships between plant growth and each species’ functional depth for foliage, its mature crown size, and stand dynamics, including the self‐thinning. Stand table data for seven conifer species are used for verification of the model. Results closely duplicate those data for each variable and species. Assumptions used provide a basis for interpreting variations within and between the species. Better understanding of the relationships between the MacArthur consumer resource model, the Chapman–Richards growth functions, the metabolic theory of ecology, and stand development resulted.
Retinal vessel oxygen saturation and vessel diameter in high myopia
Authors: Zheng Qishan , Zong Yao , Li Li , Huang Xia , Lin Leilei , Yang Wei , Yuan Yongguang , Li Yujie , He Huining , Gao Qianying
Published: August 2015

Purpose

To investigate changes in retinal vessel oxygen saturation and diameter in high myopia.

Methods

Relative oxygen saturation was measured in the retinal blood vessels of 54 participants with high myopia and compared to a control group of 54 individuals with emmetropia with the Oxymap T1 retinal oximeter. The participants with high myopia were further divided into two groups according to the grade of myopic retinopathy: Group A (grade < M2) and Group B (grade ≥ M2). One‐way anova was used to analyse the mean saturation and diameter of retinal arterioles and venules and the mean difference in arterio‐venous saturation among the four groups. Further analysis of multiple comparisons was performed with the Bonferroni test. Linear regression was used to analyse the correlation of ocular perfusion pressure or best corrected visual acuity with other variables.

Results

For all of the high myopia patients, retinal arteriole saturation (92.3 ± 5.6%) and the difference in arterio‐venous saturation (30.8 ± 5.0%) were significantly lower than in normal individuals (96.0 ± 5.8%, 35.4 ± 6.2%; p = 0.006, p < 0.001, respectively). In Group A, only the difference in arterio‐venous saturation (31.0 ± 4.7%) was significantly lower than in the control group (p = 0.011). In Group B, retinal arteriole saturation (92.2 ± 5.3%) and the difference in arterio‐venous saturation (30.7 ± 5.3%) were also lower than the control group (p = 0.02, p = 0.001, respectively). Both retinal arteriole diameter and retinal venule diameter were narrower than in participants with high myopia than the control group (p < 0.001). No statistically significant correlations were found between ocular perfusion pressure or best corrected visual acuity with any other variables.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated decreased retinal arteriole saturation and decreased difference in arterio‐venous saturation as well as narrowing retinal vessel diameter in highly myopic eyes. Further studies are needed to determine if such changes play a role in the development of high myopia and its complications or occur as a consequence of tissue remodelling during axial elongation.
Hazard detection with a monocular bioptic telescope
Authors: Doherty Amy L. , Peli Eli , Luo Gang
Published: August 2015

Purpose

The safety of bioptic telescopes for driving remains controversial. The ring scotoma, an area to the telescope eye due to the telescope magnification, has been the main cause of concern. This study evaluates whether bioptic users can use the fellow eye to detect in hazards driving videos that fall in the ring scotoma area.

Methods

Twelve visually impaired bioptic users watched a series of driving hazard perception training videos and responded as soon as they detected a hazard while reading aloud letters presented on the screen. The letters were placed such that when reading them through the telescope the hazard fell in the ring scotoma area. Four conditions were tested: no bioptic and no reading, reading without bioptic, reading with a bioptic that did not occlude the fellow eye (non‐occluding bioptic), and reading with a bioptic that partially‐occluded the fellow eye. Eight normally sighted subjects performed the same task with the partially occluding bioptic detecting lateral hazards (blocked by the device scotoma) and vertical hazards (outside the scotoma) to further determine the cause‐and‐effect relationship between hazard detection and the fellow eye.

Results

There were significant differences in performance between conditions: 83% of hazards were detected with no reading task, dropping to 67% in the reading task with no bioptic, to 50% while reading with the non‐occluding bioptic, and 34% while reading with the partially occluding bioptic. For normally sighted, detection of vertical hazards (53%) was significantly higher than lateral hazards (38%) with the partially occluding bioptic.

Conclusions

Detection of driving hazards is impaired by the addition of a secondary reading like task. Detection is further impaired when reading through a monocular telescope. The effect of the partially‐occluding bioptic supports the role of the non‐occluded fellow eye in compensating for the ring scotoma.
IURead: a new computer‐based reading test
Authors: Xu Renfeng , Bradley Arthur
Published: August 2015

Purpose

To develop a computer‐based single sentence reading test especially designed for clinical research enabling multiple repeat trials without reusing the same sentences.

Methods

We initially developed 422 sentences, with an average of 60 characters and 12 words. Presentation controls were improved by employing computer‐based testing and the oral reading was recorded by visual inspection of digital audio recordings. Variability in reading speed of normally sighted adults between sentences, between charts, between subjects, between formats, and between display devices was quantified. The impact of display size and pixel resolution on test geometry was assessed, and the impact of reduced retinal image quality and retinal illuminance were compared for reading and standard letter acuities. Eleven visually normal subjects (age: 18–60 years) participated in this study.

Results

Stopwatch timing of sentences reliably underestimated reading times by about 0.3 s, and exhibited coefficients of repeatability 17 times larger than those estimated from visual inspection of digital recordings. A slight relaxing of the lexical content constraints had no effect on reading speed; neither did sentence format (single vs three lines) or display size or distance. Within subject standard deviations of reading speed for different sentences were small (between 6% and 9% of the mean speed) requiring only small samples sizes to achieve typical statistical reliability and power when comparing conditions within individual subjects. The greater variability associated with stopwatch timing necessitates larger sample sizes. As defocus and light level were varied, reading acuity and standard letter acuity were highly correlated (r2 = 0.99), and reading acuity was slightly better.

Discussion

A computer‐based IURead reading test provides a useful reading speed and reading acuity tool for clinical research involving multiple conditions and repeat testing of individual subjects. Ready to use IURead files for use with a computer, tablet or cell phone can be downloaded from our lab website (https://www.opt.indiana.edu/Bradley/Downloads.aspx).
Intermediate addition multifocals provide safe stair ambulation with adequate ‘short‐term’ reading
Authors: Elliott David B. , Hotchkiss John , Scally Andrew J. , Foster Richard , Buckley John G.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

A recent randomised controlled trial indicated that providing long‐term multifocal wearers with a pair of distance single‐vision spectacles for use outside the home reduced falls risk in active older people. However, it also found that participants disliked continually switching between using two pairs of glasses and adherence to the intervention was poor. In this study we determined whether intermediate addition multifocals (which could be worn most of the time inside and outside the home and thus avoid continual switching) could provide similar gait safety on stairs to distance single vision spectacles whilst also providing adequate ‘short‐term’ reading and near vision.

Methods

Fourteen healthy long‐term multifocal wearers completed stair ascent and descent trials over a 3‐step staircase wearing intermediate and full addition bifocals and progression‐addition lenses (PALs) and single‐vision distance spectacles. Gait safety/caution was assessed using foot clearance measurements (toe on ascent, heel on descent) over the step edges and ascent and descent duration. Binocular near visual acuity, critical print size and reading speed were measured using Bailey‐Lovie near charts and MNRead charts at 40 cm.

Results

Gait safety/caution measures were worse with full addition bifocals and PALs compared to intermediate bifocals and PALs. The intermediate PALs provided similar gait ascent/descent measures to those with distance single‐vision spectacles. The intermediate addition PALs also provided good reading ability: Near word acuity and MNRead critical print size were better with the intermediate addition PALs than with the single‐vision lenses (p < 0.0001), with a mean near visual acuity of 0.24 ± 0.13 logMAR (~N5.5) which is satisfactory for most near vision tasks when performed for a short period of time.

Conclusions

The better ability to ‘spot read’ with the intermediate addition PALs compared to single‐vision spectacles suggests that elderly individuals might better comply with the use of intermediate addition PALs outside the home. A lack of difference in gait parameters for the intermediate addition PALs compared to distance single‐vision spectacles suggests they could be usefully used to help prevent falls in older well‐adapted full addition PAL wearers. A randomised controlled trial to investigate the usefulness of intermediate multifocals in preventing falls seems warranted.
Spinoza on Essences, Universals, and Beings of Reason
Authors: Hübner Karolina
Published: August 2015

The article proposes a new solution to the long‐standing problem of the universality of essences in Spinoza's ontology. It argues that, according to Spinoza, particular things in nature possess unique essences, but that these essences coexist with more general, mind‐dependent species‐essences, constructed by finite minds on the basis of similarities (‘agreements’) that obtain among the properties of formally‐real particulars. This account provides the best fit both with the textual evidence and with Spinoza's other metaphysical and epistemological commitments. The article offers new readings of how Spinoza understands not just the nature of essence, but also the nature of being, reason, striving, definitions, and different kinds of knowledge.
Caffeic Acid Inhibits UVB‐induced Inflammation and Photocarcinogenesis Through Activation of Peroxisome Proliferator‐activated Receptor‐γ in Mouse Skin
Authors: Balupillai Agilan , Prasad Rajendra N. , Ramasamy Karthikeyan , Muthusamy Ganesan , Shanmugham Mohana , Govindasamy Kanimozhi , Gunaseelan Srithar
Published: August 2015

In this study, the effect of caffeic acid (CA) on both acute and chronic UVB‐irradiation–induced inflammation and photocarcinogenesis was investigated in Swiss albino mice. Animals were exposed to 180 mJ cm−2 of UVB once daily for 10 consecutive days and thrice weekly for 30 weeks for acute and chronic study respectively. UVB exposure for 10 consecutive days showed edema formation, increased lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant status with activation of inflammatory molecules such as TNF‐α, IL‐6, COX‐2 and NF‐κB. However, CA (15 mg per kg.b.wt.) administration before each UVB exposure decreased lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers expression and enhanced antioxidant status probably through the activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARγ) in the mice skin. PPARγ is considered a potential target for photochemoprevention because it inhibits UVB‐mediated inflammatory responses. In this study, UVB exposure for 30 weeks caused squamous cell carcinoma and upregulation of iNOS, VEGF and TGF‐β and downregulation of p53 and tumor incidence in the mice skin. Both topical (CAT) and intraperitoneal (CAIP) treatment before each UVB exposure downregulates iNOS, VEGF, TGF‐β, upregulates p53 and reduces tumors multiplicity in the mice skin. Thus, CA offers protection against UVB‐induced photocarcinogenesis probably through activation of anti‐inflammatory transcription factor PPARγ in the mice.
How Excessive Stage Time Reduction in NPD Negatively Impacts Market Value
Authors: Bendoly Elliot , Chao Raul O.
Published: August 2015

We empirically investigate how time reductions in particular product development stages impact market value. Using longitudinal project data from 107 firms, we compare stage times prior to and following investments in new product development process changes. Our analysis reveals a predominance of focus on time reduction in the late stages of product development. We also find support for the existence of an inverted‐U relationship between market performance and time reductions for some of these stages: beta testing and technical implementation. Therefore, while time reductions can improve time to market, we observe a clear limit to the benefits associated with stage time reductions at particular stages. We also investigate the role of strategic contextual factors such as the extent to which a firm's patented innovations rely upon a variety, as opposed to a limited range, of diverse technology classes. The extent of this technology‐span impacts optimal stage time reductions. We perform an in‐depth post hoc analysis with a small set of firms to uncover how they should invest in stage time reduction given our empirical results. The post hoc analysis highlights that some firms are likely overinvesting in stage time reductions and destroying market value.
Joint Inventory and Pricing Coordination with Incomplete Demand Information
Authors: Lu Ye , Song Miao , Yang Yi
Published: August 2015

In retailing operations, retailers face the challenge of incomplete demand information. We develop a new concept named K‐approximate convexity, which is shown to be a generalization of K‐convexity, to address this challenge. This idea is applied to obtain a base‐stock list‐price policy for the joint inventory and pricing control problem with incomplete demand information and even non‐concave revenue function. A worst‐case performance bound of the policy is established. In a numerical study where demand is driven from real sales data, we find that the average gap between the profits of our proposed policy and the optimal policy is 0.27%, and the maximum gap is 4.6%.
Leaf aquaporin transcript abundance in peanut genotypes diverging in expression of the limited‐transpiration trait when subjected to differing vapor pressure deficits and aquaporin inhibitors
Authors: Devi M. Jyostna , Sinclair Thomas R , Jain Mukesh , Gallo Maria
Published: August 2015

A plant trait currently being exploited to decrease crop yield loss under water‐deficit conditions is limited‐transpiration rate (TRlim) under high atmospheric vapor pressure deficit (VPD) conditions. Although limited genotype comparisons for the TRlim trait have been performed in peanut (Arachis hypogaea), no detailed study to describe the basis for this trait in peanut has been reported. Since it has been hypothesized that the TRlim trait may be a result of low leaf hydraulic conductance associated with aquaporins (AQPs), the first objective of this study was to examine a possible correlation of TRlim to leaf AQP transcriptional profiles in six peanut cultivars. Five of the studied cultivars were selected because they expressed TRlim while the cultivar York did not. Transcripts of six AQPs were measured. Under exposure to high vapor pressure deficit, cultivar C 76‐16 had decreased AQP transcript abundance for four of the six AQPs but in York only one AQP had decreased abundance. The second objective was to explore the influence of AQP inhibitors mercury and silver on expression of TRlim and AQP transcription profiles. Quantitative RT‐PCR data were compared in cultivars York and C 76‐16, which had the extreme response in TR to VPD. Inhibitor treatment resulted in increased abundance of AQP transcripts in both. The results of these experiments indicate that AQP transcript abundance itself may not be useful in identifying genotypes expressing the TRlim trait under high VPD conditions.
Comparative physiological studies on the growth of cryptic species of Bostrychia intricata (Rhodomelaceae, Rhodophyta) in various salinity and temperature conditions
Authors: Muangmai Narongrit , Preuss Maren , Zuccarello Giuseppe C.
Published: August 2015

Inter‐ and intra‐specific physiological variations of intertidal macroalgae have been well investigated. However, studies on physiological responses of cryptic algal species have been poorly documented. Bostrychia intricata is a widespread marine red alga in the Southern Hemisphere, and has many cryptic species. We investigated the effect of different salinities and temperatures on the specific growth rate of three cryptic species (N2, N4 and N5) of B. intricata from New Zealand. Our data indicated that all cryptic species grew at the full range of salinities and temperatures tested, but exhibited a significant difference in their specific growth rates. Cryptic species N4 had a higher growth rate than the other two cryptic species under all experimental conditions, whereas cryptic species N2 occasionally showed a higher growth rate than cryptic species N5 at high salinities and lower temperatures. The distinct physiological properties of these cryptic species may explain their distribution pattern (a wider distribution of cryptic species N4 than N2 and N5) in New Zealand. The physiological divergence between the cryptic species could be related to their levels of evolutionary divergence, with more similar physiology between cryptic species, which share a more recent common ancestor (N2 and N5). Our findings underline that morphologically indistinguishable cryptic algal species are different in many other aspects and are truly independent entities.
Effects of cryopreservation on mitochondria of fish spermatozoa
Authors: Figueroa Elías , Valdebenito Iván , Zepeda Andrea B. , Figueroa Carolina A. , Dumorné Kelly , Castillo Rodrigo L. , Farias Jorge G.
Published: August 2015

The development of sperm cryopreservation has enabled transcendental changes to occur in the reproductive biotechnology of both mammals and fish; it has become a basic tool for animal improvement. Nevertheless, these protocols cause damage to cell structure and physiology, altering sperm functioning due to cryo‐injuries during freezing and thawing. However, studies of the effects on the structural, functional and genomic stability of the mitochondria in fish spermatozoa during cryopreservation are still lacking. The object of this review was to analyse the effect of cryopreservation on mitochondrial metabolic pathways in fish spermatozoa. This effect is related with the bioenergy mechanism for flagellar movement during the activation of sperm motility. In teleost fish, the mitochondria may be cylindrical, spherical or irregular in shape and adhere in a helicoidal or conical pattern to the middle piece. The salmonidae have only a single mitochondrion, but this may vary in other species; the mitochondria provide the flagellum with energy during sperm motility, when sperm respiration is essential. The effects of cryopreservation can induce structural damage to the mitochondria, altering the biochemical process involved inATPproduction and thus causing a reduction in sperm motility. Fragmentation damage to nuclearDNAand diminution in sperm motility is mainly associated with damage to the structure and metabolic functioning of the mitochondrion. A direct correlation exists between the mitochondrial membrane potential (transmembrane integrity,∆Ψm) and the motility and fertilizing capacity of the cryopreserved spermatozoa, confirming that this organelle is the energy nucleus of the spermatozoon and that the cessation or prolongation of motility and successful fertilization depend on the availability ofATPin the spermatozoa. Further works are need to incorporate biotechnology studies, at cell and molecular level, of the possible effects of cryopreservation on mitochondrialDNA, enzymatic or metabolic modifications of the citric acid cycle, and the oxidative phosphorylation process in the inner membrane, as well as studies of the mitochondrial ultrastructure. Thus, mitochondrial dynamics could be established as a potential target for therapeutic strategies.
Promoting the Principles of the Aarhus Convention in International Forums: The Case of the UN Climate Change Regime
Authors: Duyck Sébastien
Published: August 2015

The 1998 Aarhus Convention constitutes a landmark international agreement to promote public participation, not only domestically, but also at the international level. In 2005, its parties adopted specific guidelines on the promotion of its principles in international forums and established institutional arrangements to promote the implementation of this instrument. This article provides an assessment of the work undertaken under the Aarhus Convention in the past 10 years in this respect, discussing the roles played by three main categories of actors: civil society organizations, national governments and international bureaucracies. The review of the promotion of the Aarhus principles in the international climate regime supports this analysis. This case study highlights that stakeholders and the secretariats established under the Aarhus Convention and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change have played primarily a cognitive role as they worked to increase awareness of the parties on participation issues in the climate regime. To implement the Aarhus Convention in the context of the climate negotiations, the parties tend to favour domestic solutions (such as the inclusion of civil society representatives in governmental delegations) rather than reflect the Aarhus principles in their negotiating positions.
The Identification of Direct and Indirect Effects in Studies with an Unmeasured Intermediate Variable
Authors: Kuroki Manabu
Published: August 2015

This paper considers the identification problem of direct and indirect effects of treatment on a response, when observed data are available but an important intermediate variable is unmeasured. To solve this problem, we propose identification conditions for direct and indirect effects based on (conditionally independent) proxy variables of the unmeasured intermediate variable. This paper establishes feasible approaches for evaluating direct and indirect effects in studies with a single unmeasured intermediate variable.
Distinct Temporal Regulation of RET Isoform Internalization: Roles of Clathrin and AP2
Authors: Crupi Mathieu J. F. , Yoganathan Piriya , Bone Leslie N. , Lian Eric , Fetz Andrew , Antonescu Costin N. , Mulligan Lois M.
Published: August 2015

The RET receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) contributes to kidney and nervous system development, and is implicated in a number of human cancers. RET is expressed as two protein isoforms, RET9 and RET51, with distinct interactions and signaling properties that contribute to these processes. RET isoforms are internalized from the cell surface into endosomal compartments in response to glial cell line‐derived neurotropic factor (GDNF) ligand stimulation but the specific mechanisms of RET trafficking remain to be elucidated. Here, we used total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy to demonstrate that RET internalization occurs primarily through clathrin coated pits (CCPs). Activated RET receptors colocalize with clathrin, but not caveolin. The RET51 isoform is rapidly and robustly recruited to CCPs upon GDNF stimulation, while RET9 recruitment occurs more slowly and is less pronounced. We showed that the clathrin‐associated adaptor protein complex 2 (AP2) interacts directly with each RET isoform through its AP2 μ subunit, and is important for RET internalization. Our data establish that interactions with the AP2 complex promote RET receptor internalization via clathrin‐mediated endocytosis but that RET9 and RET51 have distinct internalization kinetics that may contribute to differences in their biological functions.
The Effects of Greenfield FDI and Cross‐border M&As on Total Factor Productivity
Authors: Ashraf Ayesha , Herzer Dierk , Nunnenkamp Peter
Published: August 2015

We examine the effects of greenfield FDI and cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (M&As) on total factor productivity (TFP) in developed and developing host countries of FDI. Using panel data for up to 123 countries over the period from 2003 to 2011, we find that greenfield FDI has no statistically significant effect on TFP, while M&As have a positive effect on TFP in the total sample. Greenfield FDI and M&As both appear to be ineffective in increasing TFP in the subsample of developing countries. In contrast, M&As have a strong and positive effect on TFP in the subsample of developed countries.
The influence of the obstetrical condition on canine neonatal pulmonary functional competence
Authors: Silva Liege Garcia , Portari Guilherme Vannucchi , Lúcio Cristina Fátima , Rodrigues Jaqueline Aguiar , Veiga Gisele Lima , Vannucchi Camila Infantosi
Published: August 2015

Objective

To compare the influence of the obstetrical condition on neonatal respiratory performance, to estimate surfactant synthesis through lecithin and sphingomyelin ratio (L/S) in amniotic fluid of pregnant bitches and correlate the L/S with the respiratory condition during the first hour of life.

Design

Prospective randomized study.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital and private referral centers.

Animals

In accordance to the condition at birth, puppies from 25 healthy bitches aged 2–6 years were allocated into: Eutocia Group – EUT (n = 19 neonates and 14 bitches); Dystocia Group – DYS (n = 8 neonates and 5 bitches) and Elective Cesarean Section Group – CS (n = 12 neonates and 11 bitches).

Interventions

Amniotic fluid was drawn from amniotic sac and lecithin (L) and sphingomyelin (S) were measured by high performance liquid chromatography to obtain the L/S ratio. Neonatal physical examination was performed at 1, 5, and 60 minutes after delivery, and included the assessment of respiratory rate (RR) and respiration effort (RE).

Measurements and Main Results

CS group had significantly lower amniotic L/S ratio when compared to EUT and DYS. There were no significant differences between vaginal groups (EUT versus DYS) in respect to L/S ratios. RE of eutocic neonates improved promptly, while RE of DYS and CS groups improved only 1 hour following birth. Moreover, amniotic L/S ratio positively correlated with RR after 60 minutes.

Conclusions

We identified a possible influence of the delivery method on the final surfactant maturation process. Thus, neonates born by elective CS prior to the onset of expulsive uterine contractions should have their respiratory parameters carefully monitored. Additionally, we propose that assessment of respiratory parameters 1 hour following birth can serve as a practical means to indirectly estimate pulmonary maturation (ie, surfactant synthesis) in puppies.
ACCURACY OF RADIOGRAPHIC DETECTION OF THE CRANIAL MARGIN OF THE DORSAL LAMINA OF THE CANINE SACRUM
Authors: Blume Lauren M. , Worth Andrew J. , Cohen Eli B. , Bridges Janis P. , Hartman Angela C.
Published: August 2015

An elongated sacral lamina has been described as one of the contributing factors for dogs withcauda equinasyndrome due to degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLSS); however, published evidence is lacking on the accuracy of radiographic screening for the presence of this lesion. Objectives of this prospective, cross‐sectional cadaver study were to describe the accuracy and repeatability of detection of the cranial sacral lamina margin on plain lateral radiographs of the lumbosacral junction in dogs. Twenty‐five medium and large breed canine cadavers were radiographed before and after placement of a radiopaque hook in the cranial margin of the sacral lamina. Three independent evaluators placed digital markers at the perceived margin on preinterventional radiographs. The distance from perceived location to the true location on postinterventional radiographs was recorded for each dog and observer. A discordance threshold (distance between perceived and actual margin) of 1.5 mm was subjectively defined as clinically relevant. The three evaluators demonstrated good repeatability, although the accuracy for margin detection was only fair (mean discordance 1.7 mm). Evaluators demonstrated greater accuracy in identifying the landmark in juveniles (1.4 mm) vs. adults (1.8 mm;P< 0.01). Results of this study indicated that observer repeatability is good and accuracy is fair for correctly identifying the radiographic cranial margin of the sacral lamina in dogs. This should be taken into consideration when interpreting elongation of the sacral lamina in radiographs of dogs with suspected DLSS, especially adults.
Elastic Pipe Control and Compensation for Managed Pressure Drilling Under Sea Wave Heave Conditions
Authors: Samuel Robello , Lovorn Randy
Published: August 2015

Managed pressure drilling (MPD) was developed as a group of technologies to more precisely control the annular pressure profile for which accuracy of the estimation of the bottomhole pressure is important. Particularly, under severe wave heaves in deepwater environments, the estimation based on static state pipe movement models can result in underestimation/overestimation of bottomhole pressures. The purpose of this study is to investigate the dynamic axial response of the drillstring with friction to applied heaving velocity, with particular interest to the effect at the bottomhole pressure. The paper presents an efficient and accurate method for solving the dynamic axial drillstring with friction and it allows it to be applied to heave velocity at the surface. The model that couples the pipe motion solves the full balance of mass and balance of momentum for pipe and annulus flow, considering the compressibility of the fluids, the elasticity of the system, and the dynamic motions of pipes and fluids. Also considered are surge pressures related to fluid column length below the moving pipe, compressibility of the formation, and axial elasticity of the moving string. Fluid properties are adjusted to reflect the effects of pressure and temperature on the fluids. The modeling takes into account the pipe elasticity under different combinations of heave and pipe velocities. Furthermore, the real-time torque and drag models are calibrated to actual hole conditions in real-time using survey, temperature, pressure, and downhole tool data to calculate friction factors in a wellbore. It has been observed that different conditions exist, some resulting in velocity reversal; thus causing surge or swab pressures. It has also been observed that heave amplitude has significant influence on bottomhole pressure. The different conditions observed for periodic or time function of displacements include (1) surface pipe velocity attributed to wave heave is in phase with the bottom movement of the string; (2) surface velocity of the pipe is out of phase with the bottom velocity of the pipe; (3) wave velocity and surface pipe velocity can be out of sync, and the bottom pipe velocity can be in phase with the surface velocity; and (4) wave velocity and surface pipe velocity can be out of sync, and the bottom pipe velocity can be out of phase with the surface velocity. The results of these calculations can be coupled to a real-time hydraulics model to determine a setpoint pressure for the MPD choke system. (SPE 173|005)
Solvent Selection Criteria and Optimal Application Conditions for Heavy-Oil/Bitumen Recovery at Elevated Temperatures: A Review and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Naderi Khosrow , Babadagli Tayfun
Published: August 2015

Sole thermal or solvent methods for heavy-oil recovery are not effective enough to deliver cost efficient processes. Hybrid applications of those two techniques have been proposed to take advantage of each and a wide range of investigations have been recently performed focusing on extreme conditions such as bitumen containing sands and carbonates, deep reservoirs, and oil-wet fractured carbonates. What is critically important in these applications is to determine the best performing solvent for a particular application and optimal application conditions for a given solvent at high temperature conditions. In this study, the results from various reported works on the hybrid applications of thermal (mainly steam) and solvent methods were complied, analyzed, and compared. Attention was given to a comparative analysis of steam-over-solvent injection in fractured reservoirs (SOS-FR) method. Steam/solvent methods show a promising outcome in general, while specific modifications must be taken into account for different application situations. These were discussed and specified, especially from proper solvent type and optimal application conditions for alternate injection of steam and solvent in different reservoir types.
Device characteristics comparisons for the InGaZnO thin film transistors fabricated on two-type surfaces of the plastic poly(ethylene naphthalate) substrates with hybrid barrier layers
Authors: Park Min-Ji , Yun Da-Jeong , Ryu Min-Ki , Yang Jong-Heon , Pi Jae-Eun , Kwon Oh-Sang , Kim Gi Heon , Hwang Chi-Sun , Yoon Sung-Min
Published: August 2015

The poly(ethylene naphthalate) (PEN) substrates have two sides of bare PEN and primer-coated surfaces treated to provide slip property for film production. Although the primer surface showed porous and inhomogeneous morphologies, a hybrid inorganic/organic double-layered barrier layer can effectively improve the surface roughness and permeability. The fabricated amorphous In-Ga-Zn-O thin-film transistors on the PEN substrates with hybrid barrier showed good performances and did not experience any degradation under the mechanical bending situation at a curvature radius of 3.3 mm. The variation in the threshold voltage was evaluated to be approximately −0.1/1.6 V under the negative/positive bias stress tests, respectively.
The Influence of In-Season Training Loads on Injury Risk in Professional Rugby Union
Authors: Cross Matthew J. , Williams Sean , Trewartha Grant , Kemp Simon P.T. , Stokes Keith A.
Published: August 2015

Purpose:

To explore the association between in-season training-load (TL) measures and injury risk in professional rugby union players.

Methods:

This was a 1-season prospective cohort study of 173 professional rugby union players from 4 English Premiership teams. TL (duration × session-RPE) and time-loss injuries were recorded for all players for all pitch- and gym-based sessions. Generalized estimating equations were used to model the association between in-season TL measures and injury in the subsequent week.

Results:

Injury risk increased linearly with 1-wk loads and week-to-week changes in loads, with a 2-SD increase in these variables (1245 AU and 1069 AU, respectively) associated with odds ratios of 1.68 (95% CI 1.05–2.68) and 1.58 (95% CI 0.98–2.54). When compared with the reference group (<3684 AU), a significant nonlinear effect was evident for 4-wk cumulative loads, with a likely beneficial reduction in injury risk associated with intermediate loads of 5932–8651 AU (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.22–1.38) (this range equates to around 4 wk of average in-season TL) and a likely harmful effect evident for higher loads of >8651 AU (OR 1.39, 95% CI 0.98–1.98).

Conclusions:

Players had an increased risk of injury if they had high 1-wk cumulative loads (1245 AU) or large week-to-week changes in TL (1069 AU). In addition, a U-shaped relationship was observed for 4-wk cumulative loads, with an apparent increase in risk associated with higher loads (>8651 AU). These measures should therefore be monitored to inform injury-risk-reduction strategies.
Quadriceps and Hamstring Strength Recovery During Early Neuromuscular Rehabilitation After ACL Hamstring-Tendon Autograft Reconstruction
Authors: Harput Gulcan , Kilinc H. Erkan , Ozer Hamza , Baltaci Gul , Mattacola Carl G.
Published: August 2015

Context:

There is lack of information related to quadriceps and hamstring strength recovery during the early period of rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using hamstring-tendon graft (HTG).

Objective:

To investigate quadriceps and hamstring isometric strength at 4-, 8-, and 12-wk time points after ACLR and to document the strength changes of these muscles over time.

Design:

Longitudinal study.

Participants:

24 patients (age 28.1 ± 8.1 y) who underwent unilateral single-bundle anatomic ACLR with 4-strand semitendinosus and gracilis tendon graft.

Main Outcome Measures:

The isometric strength of quadriceps and hamstring muscles was measured on an isokinetic dynamometer at a 60° knee-flexion angle 4, 8, and 12 wk after surgery.

Results:

Quadriceps and hamstring strength significantly increased over time for both the involved limb (quadriceps F2,46 = 58.3, P < .001; hamstring F2,46 = 35.7, P < .001) and uninvolved limb (quadriceps F2,46 = 17.9, P < .001; hamstring F2,46 = 56.9, P = .001). Quadriceps and hamstring indexes significantly changed from 4 wk (QI 57.9, HI 54.4) to 8 wk (QI 78.8, HI 69.9) and from 8 wk to 12 wk (QI 82, HI 75.7) (P < .001); however, there was no difference between indexes at the 12-wk time point (P = .17).

Conclusions:

The results of this study serve as a reference for clinicians while directing a rehabilitation protocol for HTG ACLR patients to better appreciate expected strength changes of the muscles in the early phase of recovery.
Effects of a 4-Week Biomechanical Ankle Platform System Protocol on Balance in High School Athletes With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Cain Mary Spencer , Garceau Stacy Watt , Linens Shelley W.
Published: August 2015

Context:

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) describes the residual symptoms present after repetitive ankle sprains. Current rehabilitation programs in the high school population focus on a multistation approach or general lower-extremity injury-prevention program. Specific rehabilitation techniques for CAI have not been established.

Objective:

To determine the effectiveness of a 4-wk biomechanical ankle platform system (BAPS) board protocol on the balance of high school athletes with CAI.

Design:

Randomized control trial.

Setting:

Athletic training facility.

Patients:

Twenty-two high school athletes with “giving way” and a history of ankle sprains (ie, CAI) were randomized into a rehabilitation (REH) (166.23 ± 0.93 cm, 67.0 ± 9.47 kg, 16.45 ± 0.93 y) or control (CON) (173.86 ± 8.88 cm, 84.51 ± 21.28 kg, 16.55 ± 1.29 y) group.

Interventions:

After baseline measures, the REH group completed a progressive BAPS rehabilitation program (3 times/wk for 4 wk), whereas the CON group had no intervention. Each session consisted of 5 trials of clockwise/counterclockwise rotations changing direction every 10 s during each 40-s trial. After 4 wk, baseline measurements were repeated.

Main Outcome Measures:

Dependent measures included longest time (time-in-balance test), average number of errors (foot lift test), average reach distance (cm) normalized to leg length for each reach direction (Star Excursion Balance Test [SEBT]), and fastest time (side hop test [SHT]).

Results:

Significant group-by-time interactions were found for TIB (F1,20 = 9.89, P = .005), FLT (F1,20 = 41.18, P < .001), SEBT-anteromedial (F1,20 = 5.34, P = .032), SEBT-medial (F1,20 = 7.51, P = .013), SEBT-posteromedial (F1,20 = 12.84, P = .002), and SHT (F1,20 = 7.50, P = .013). Post hoc testing showed that the REH group improved performance on all measures at posttest, whereas the CON group did not.

Conclusion:

A 4-wk BAPS rehabilitation protocol improved balance in high school athletes suffering from CAI. These results can allow clinicians to rehabilitate in a focused manner by using 1 rehabilitation tool that allows benefits to be accomplished in a shorter time.
A stable trimeric influenza hemagglutinin stem as a broadly protective immunogen
Authors: Impagliazzo Antonietta , Milder Fin , Kuipers Harmjan , Wagner Michelle V. , Zhu Xueyong , Hoffman Ryan M. B. , van Meersbergen Ruud , Huizingh Jeroen , Wanningen Patrick , Verspuij Johan , de Man Martijn , Ding Zhaoqing , Apetri Adrian , Kükrer Başak , Sneekes-Vriese Eveline , Tomkiewicz Danuta , Laursen Nick S. , Lee Peter S. , Zakrzewska Anna , Dekking Liesbeth , Tolboom Jeroen , Tettero Lisanne , van Meerten Sander , Yu Wenli , Koudstaal Wouter , Goudsmit Jaap , Ward Andrew B. , Meijberg Wim , Wilson Ian A. , Radošević Katarina
Published: August 2015

Flu vaccine candidate STEMs the tide

Every year we need a new flu vaccine, because influenza virus constantly mutates the major target of antibodies to flu: the “head” region of the viral hemagglutinin (HA) protein. Avoiding the problem of mutation requires a vaccine that elicits antibodies against the more conserved “stem” region of HA. During infection, antibodies are occasionally produced that recognize the stem and that neutralize a broad range of influenza virus strains. Impagliazzo
et al.
engineered an HA stem–only vaccine candidate that elicited broadly neutralizing antibodies in mice and nonhuman primates and that protected mice against multiple influenza strains.

Science
, this issue p.
1301
Keeping gene transcription in check
Authors: Riddihough Guy
Published: August 2015

A regulatory protein factor in bacteria ensures that RNA polymerase stays switched off until it receives the signal to go.
Ajuba links mechanical tension to cell cycle reentry
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: August 2015

Tissue damage stimulates quiescent cells to reenter the cell cycle through a mechanism that relies on Ajuba-dependent mechanical stimulation of Yorkie activity.
Trauma research—A field without a home base
Authors: Jayaraman Sudha , Vermund Sten H.
Published: August 2015

Trauma research can be a cost-effective investment worthy of attention and emphasis from the U.S. National Institutes of Health.