bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Alzheimer's disease development: a comparison of cognitive criteria and associated neuroimaging biomarkers
Authors: Callahan Brandy L. , Ramirez Joel , Berezuk Courtney , Duchesne Simon , Black Sandra E. ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: November 2015

Introduction

The definition of “objective cognitive impairment” in current criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) varies considerably between research groups and clinics. This study aims to compare different methods of defining memory impairment to improve prediction models for the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) from baseline to 24 months.

Methods

The sensitivity and specificity of six methods of defining episodic memory impairment (< −1, −1.5 or −2 standard deviations [SD] on one or two memory tests) were compared in 494 non-demented seniors from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative using the area under the curve (AUC) for receiver operating characteristic analysis. The added value of non-memory measures (language and executive function) and biomarkers (hippocampal and white-matter hyperintensity volume, brain parenchymal fraction [BPF], and APOEε4 status) was investigated using logistic regression.

Results

Baseline scores < −1 SD on two memory tests predicted AD with 75.91 % accuracy (AUC = 0.80). Only APOE ε4 status further improved prediction (B = 1.10, SE = 0.45, p = .016). A < −1.5 SD cut-off on one test had 66.60 % accuracy (AUC = 0.77). Prediction was further improved using Trails B/A ratio (B = 0.27, SE = 0.13, p = .033), BPF (B = −15.97, SE = 7.58, p = .035), and APOEε4 status (B = 1.08, SE = 0.45, p = .017). A cut-off of < −2 SD on one memory test (AUC = 0.77, SE = 0.03, 95 % CI 0.72-0.82) had 76.52 % accuracy in predicting AD. Trails B/A ratio (B = 0.31, SE = 0.13, p = .017) and APOE ε4 status (B = 1.07, SE = 0.46, p = .019) improved predictive accuracy.

Conclusions

Episodic memory impairment in MCI should be defined as scores < −1 SD below normative references on at least two measures. Clinicians or researchers who administer a single test should opt for a more stringent cut-off and collect and analyze whole-brain volume. When feasible, ascertaining APOE ε4 status can further improve prediction.
Adult bone marrow mesenchymal and neural crest stem cells are chemoattractive and accelerate motor recovery in a mouse model of spinal cord injury
Authors: Neirinckx Virginie , Agirman Gulistan , Coste Cécile , Marquet Alice , Dion Valérie , Rogister Bernard , Franzen Rachelle , Wislet Sabine
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Stem cells from adult tissues were considered for a long time as promising tools for regenerative therapy of neurological diseases, including spinal cord injuries (SCI). Indeed, mesenchymal (MSCs) and neural crest stem cells (NCSCs) together constitute the bone marrow stromal stem cells (BMSCs) that were used as therapeutic options in various models of experimental SCI. However, as clinical approaches remained disappointing, we thought that reducing BMSC heterogeneity should be a potential way to improve treatment efficiency and reproducibility.

Methods

We investigated the impact of pure populations of MSCs and NCSCs isolated from adult bone marrow in a mouse model of spinal cord injury. We then analyzed the secretome of both MSCs and NCSCs, and its effect on macrophage migrationin vitro.

Results

We first observed that both cell types induced motor recovery in mice, and modified the inflammatory reaction in the lesion site. We also demonstrated that NCSCs but especially MSCs were able to secrete chemokines and attract macrophagesin vitro. Finally, it appears that MSC injection in the spinal cord enhance early inflammatory events in the blood and spinal cord of SCI mice.

Conclusions

Altogether, our results suggest that both cell types have beneficial effects in experimental SCI, and that further investigation should be dedicated to the regulation of the inflammatory reaction following SCI, in the context of stem cell-based therapy but also in the early-phase clinical management of SCI patients.
Periostin is critical for improving the therapeutic properties of adipocyte-derived stem cells
Authors: Chow Theresa , Rogers Ian M.
Published: November 2015

Periostin is a matricellular protein that is reactivated during tissue damage and repair and has been shown to be a critical regulator of multiple biological pathways involved in the repair of tissue after myocardial infarction, peripheral vascular disease, and skin wounds. The tissue repair properties attributed to periostin make it an ideal candidate to enhance the therapeutic properties of donor cells such as mesenchymal stem cells from adipocyte tissue. In a recent article inStem Cell Research & Therapy, Qin et al. demonstrated enhanced therapeutic properties of adipocyte-derived stem cells by genetically engineering them to express periostin.
Common endpoints of generalized weak contractive mappings via separation theorem with applications
Authors: Moradi Sirous , Farajzadeh Ali P , Cho Yeol Je , Plubtieng Somyot
Published: November 2015

In this paper, first, we give the separation theorem which is an extension of the separation theorem due to Jachymski and Jóźwik (J. Math. Anal. Appl. 300:147-159, 2004). Then, by using this and the related results, we prove that two generalized weak contraction multi-valued mappings have a unique common endpoint if and only if either they have the usual approximate endpoint property or they have the common approximate strict fixed point property. This result is an extension and correct version of the main result given by Khojasteh and Rakočević (Appl. Math. Lett. 25:289-293, 2012).
Effects of stride frequency and foot position at landing on braking force, hip torque, impact peak force and the metabolic cost of running in humans
Authors: Lieberman Daniel E. , Warrener Anna G. , Wang Justin , Castillo Eric R.
Published: November 2015

Endurance runners are often advised to use 90 strides min−1, but how optimal is this stride frequency and why? Endurance runners are also often advised to maintain short strides and avoid landing with the feet too far in front of their hips or knees (colloquially termed ‘overstriding’), but how do different kinematic strategies for varying stride length at the same stride frequency affect economy and impact peaks? Linear mixed models were used to analyze repeated measures of stride frequency, the anteroposterior position of the foot at landing, V̇O2, lower extremity kinematics and vertical ground reaction forces in 14 runners who varied substantially in height and body mass and who were asked to run at 75, 80, 85, 90 and 95 strides min−1 at 3.0 m s−1. For every increase of 5 strides min−1, maximum hip flexor moments in the sagittal plane increased by 5.8% (P<0.0001), and the position of the foot at landing relative to the hip decreased by 5.9% (P=0.003). Higher magnitudes of posteriorly directed braking forces were associated with increases in foot landing position relative to the hip (P=0.0005) but not the knee (P=0.54); increases in foot landing position relative to the knee were associated with higher magnitudes (P<0.0001) and rates of loading (P=0.07) of the vertical ground reaction force impact peak. Finally, the mean metabolically optimal stride frequency was 84.8±3.6 strides min−1, with 50.4% of the variance explained by the trade-off between minimizing braking forces versus maximum hip flexor moments during swing. The results suggest that runners may benefit from a stride frequency of approximately 85 strides min−1 and by landing at the end of swing phase with a relatively vertical tibia.
Studies on the Precise Chemical Synthesis of Human Glycoproteins
Authors: Kajihara Yasuhiro
Published: November 2015

Our research group demonstrated the semi-synthesis of complex-type biantennary sialyloligosaccharide-library by means of branch-specific glycosidase and several sialyltransferase reactions toward complex-type H2N-Asn-(biantennary compex-type sialyloligosaccharide)-COOH isolated from egg yolk at over a gram scale. This methodology yielded 35 kinds of homogeneous complex-type oligosaccharides. Using this oligosaccharide library, an efficient Boc solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) of acid labile sialylglycopeptide-α-thioester was demonstrated. Our research group showed that the sialoside in which the carboxylic acid is protected with a phenacyl group is stable under strong acidic conditions, and this critical finding enabled us to demonstrate the first Boc-SPPS for the synthesis of a sialylglycopeptide-α-thioester. Using both a synthetic method of sialylglycopeptide-α-thioester and native chemical ligation (NCL), our research group synthesized several glycoproteins such as chemokine MCP-3, three kinds of erythropoietin analogues, and interferon-ß. Our research group also demonstrated a unique synthesis that was an intentional synthesis of homogeneous misfolded glycoproteins bearing M9-high-mannose-type oligosaccharide. This unique synthetic misfolded-glycoprotein is useful for the purpose of uncovering the mechanism of molecular recognition in glycoprotein quality control (GQC) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). This account discusses the function of the oligosaccharides of glycoproteins based on our research findings.
Study on Preparation and Extinguishing Fire Ability of KHCO3/γ-Al2O3 Composites
Authors: Chen Ming , Zhao Dongfeng , Liu Yi , Li Fei , Li Shi
Published: November 2015

In this paper, KHCO3 nanoparticles were uploaded on γ-Al2O3 to form a new type of powder fire extinguisher comprising KHCO3/γ-Al2O3 composites through simple impregnation method. The micro morphology, crystallographic form, BET area, and thermal stability of the KHCO3/γ-Al2O3 composites were analyzed. Furthermore, the obtained KHCO3/γ-Al2O3 composites were used to extinguish a fire and displayed much better extinguishing ability than commercial extinguishers.
Reducing Risk and Improving Incentives in Funding Entrepreneurs
Authors: Bodily Samuel E.
Published: November 2015

This article suggests backer financing mechanisms that encourage an entrepreneur to launch a start-up that has unacceptable risk although positive expected payout. It uses decision analysis and certainty equivalents to compare these mechanisms from both the entrepreneur’s and the backer’s points of view. Backers may be local and national governments interested in technology, job creation, and growing the tax base; foundations; charities; nongovernmental organizations; and even corporations or individuals interested in a new product or technology. Alternative mechanisms include (a) the equity participation model predominant in start-up financing, (b) outright incentive gifts, (c) insurance against downside loss, and two new ideas: (d) swap hedge and (e) revenue contract. We develop risk analysis models of the alternative mechanisms, from which we calculate the comparative risk-adjusted attractiveness of each mechanism to the entrepreneur for a similar level of expected cost to the backer. The best alternatives, two highly efficient new ideas, eliminate moral hazard and leave ownership and control in the hands of the entrepreneur. And in the revenue contract, the backer may be additionally rewarded with money back sooner. Teachers may use the modeling and analysis to demonstrate comparative analysis of hedging versus insurance and fixed versus floating contracts, as well as risk sharing.
An Approximate Dynamic Programming Algorithm for Monotone Value Functions
Authors: Jiang Daniel R. , Powell Warren B.
Published: November 2015

Many sequential decision problems can be formulated as Markov decision processes (MDPs) where the optimal value function (or cost-to-go function) can be shown to satisfy a monotone structure in some or all of its dimensions. When the state space becomes large, traditional techniques, such as the backward dynamic programming algorithm (i.e., backward induction or value iteration), may no longer be effective in finding a solution within a reasonable time frame, and thus we are forced to consider other approaches, such as approximate dynamic programming (ADP). We propose a provably convergent ADP algorithm called Monotone-ADP that exploits the monotonicity of the value functions to increase the rate of convergence. In this paper, we describe a general finite-horizon problem setting where the optimal value function is monotone, present a convergence proof for Monotone-ADP under various technical assumptions, and show numerical results for three application domains: optimal stopping, energy storage/allocation, and glycemic control for diabetes patients. The empirical results indicate that by taking advantage of monotonicity, we can attain high quality solutions within a relatively small number of iterations, using up to two orders of magnitude less computation than is needed to compute the optimal solution exactly.
Line segments on the boundary of the numerical ranges of some tridiagonal matrices
Authors: Spitkovsky Ilya , Thomas Claire
Published: November 2015

Tridiagonal matrices are considered for which the main diagonal consists of zeroes, the sup-diagonal of all ones, and the entries on the sub-diagonal form a geometric progression. The criterion for the numerical range of such matrices to have line segments on its boundary is established, and the number and orientation of these segments is described.
ABORDAGEM GESTÃO POR COMPETÊNCIAS NA CONSTRUÇÃO DA ESTRATÉGIA ORGANIZACIONAL
Authors: Ghedine Tatiana
Published: November 2015

O presente trabalho buscou como a abordagem Gestão por Competências pode ser aplicada no processo de implementação das estratégias organizacionais, procurando identificar e analisar evidências relacionadas à aplicação do conceito de competência organizacional (CO) no processo de implementação de estratégias. Foi elaborado um framework para compreender a conexão entre as CO e a lógica estratégica organizacional. Para realização da pesquisa, optou-se por uma investigação qualitativa, por meio de um estudo de caso realizado na Marcopolo S.A. Participaram das entrevistas dois diretores e dois gerentes, além de três fornecedores parceiros da Marcopolo, totalizando 1050 horas de entrevistas gravadas. Observou-se que os entrevistados associam o conceito de CO a pontos fortes. Contudo, estes são associados a variáveis de controle ou análise interna para comparação de mercado, não fornecendo a compreensão necessária sobre as reais capacidades da organização. Constatou-se que, apesar da Marcopolo não trabalhar com o conceito de CO, ela possui 5 COs bem definidas: gestão flexível da produção; gestão do desenvolvimento de produto; gestão da marca e gestão de instalação em mercados externos. Além dessas CO já constituídas, identificaram-se outras duas em desenvolvimento.
Determination of allelopathic potentials in plant species in Sino-Japanese floristic region by sandwich method and dish pack method
Authors: Appiah Kwame , Li Zhenhao , Zeng Ren-sen , Luo Shiming , Oikawa Yosei , Fujii Yoshiharu
Published: November 2015

The Sino-Japanese Floristic Region appears as one of the major centers of development of higher plants. This region have been relevant for the study of evolution and systematics of many flowering plants. The taxonomic richness of endemic plant species in this region have survived several years of extreme climate conditions. Endemic mountainous plant species that have survived extreme climate conditions are of allelopathic and medicinal interest. For this reason, 251 plant species collected from the Sino-Japanese Floristic Region were screened for allelopathic plant species. Sandwich method and dish pack method were respectively used to screen plant leaf leachates and volatile materials with lettuce (Lactuca sativa CV. Great Lakes 366) as receptor plant. Among the 84 species that showed inhibitory effect on lettuce radicle elongation in our sandwich bioassay, Photinia glabra showed complete inhibition of lettuce radicle elongation (0% radicle elongation). In the dish pack bioassay, Photinia glabra, Liquidambar styraciflua, and Cinnamomum camphora (90.6%, 61.4%, and 50.2% respectively) were among the nine species that were observed with strong inhibitory effect on lettuce radicle growth. On the other hand, nine other species promoted lettuce radicle growth when compared to the control. Aesculus turbinata and Quercus gilva were the species with the highest growth stimulatory effect (33.0% and 16.1% respectively). We hereby present Photinia glabra as an allelopathic candidate species for both leachate and volatile compounds.
Normality criteria for families of zero-free meromorphic functions
Authors: Thin Nguyen Van , Oanh Bui Thi Kieu
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we prove some normality criteria for families of zero-free meromorphic functions. The results of this paper are generalizations of some problems studied by Chang [Acta Math. Sin. (Engl. Ser.) 28 (2012), 707–716] and Dethloff–Tan–Thin [J. Math. Anal. Appl. 411 (2014), 675–683].
Negative Binomial Marshall–Olkin Rayleigh Distribution and Its Applications
Authors: Jose K. K. , Sivadas Remya
Published: November 2015

A generalization of the Marshall–Olkin family of distributions is developed using negative binomial compounding instead of geometric compounding where addition is replaced by minimum of a random number of observations X
1,X
2,...,XN
. Here, we consider the Rayleigh distribution and extend it to obtain a Negative Binomial Marshall–Olkin Rayleigh Distribution. Various properties of the new family are investigated. Maximum likelihood estimates are obtained. The use of the model in lifetime modeling is established by fitting it to a real data set on remission times of bladder cancer patients. Also we try to develop a reliability test plan for acceptance or rejection of a lot of products submitted for inspection with lifetimes governed by this distribution.
Adolescent suicide and testosterone
Authors: Rice Timothy R. , Sher Leo
Published: November 2015

Completed suicide is much more common in men than in women. Its incidence rises precipitously in adolescence. One biological hypothesis that accounts for the increased frequency of completed suicide in men is that the male sex hormone testosterone partially mediates the observed increase in suicide frequency among men. It is the aim of this communication to review the relevant literature and to describe putative biological mechanisms for this association. Specifically, we propose that the impairment wrought by of high levels of testosterone in the adolescent upon the emotion regulation system contribute to an account for these findings. Herein, we describe this neural system and the specific effects of testosterone upon the system. We conclude with a discussion of clinical implications and applications with an aim of stimulating further research.
Regression Discontinuity with Errors in the Running Variable: Effect on Truthful Margin
Authors: Lee Myoung-Jae
Published: November 2015

In regression discontinuity (RD) with a running variable
The parallel replica method for computing equilibrium averages of Markov chains
Authors: Aristoff David
Published: November 2015

An algorithm is proposed for computing
equilibrium averages of Markov chains which suffer from metastability –
the tendency to remain in one or more subsets of state space for
long time intervals. The algorithm, called the parallel replica method (or
ParRep), uses many parallel
processors to explore these subsets more efficiently.
Numerical simulations on a simple model demonstrate consistency of
the method. A proof of consistency is given in an idealized setting.
The parallel replica method can be considered a generalization of A. F. Voter's
parallel replica dynamics, originally developed to efficiently
simulate metastable Langevin stochastic dynamics.
Synthesis and characterization of a novel acryl amide-based yttrium imprinted sorbent via the ATRP approach for the preparation
of medical-grade 90Y
Authors: Abedi Mahvash , Shirvani-Arani Simindokht , Nabid Mohammad Reza , Bahrami-Samani Ali
Published: November 2015

Because of its favorable radionuclidic properties (pure beta emitter, E

βmax = 2.28 MeV,
T
1/2 = 64.1 h), the preparation of carrier free 90Y is of a great importance in radiopharmacy. Herein, we
report the synthesis, characterization, and application of a novel yttrium sorbent prepared on the basis of the ion-imprinting
concept. The ion-imprinted polymer (IIP) was prepared by atom transfer radical copolymerization of acryl amide (AAm, functional
monomer) and N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBAAm) crosslinking agent in the presence of a complex of yttrium ions (template
ions) with a homemade chelator, i.e., 2,2-bis(2-bromo-2-methylpropanoate)propane-1,3-disuccinate (also as initiator). For elimination
of yttrium ions, which act as the template, the prepared particles were treated with 50% v:v HCl : H2O to
produce yttrium-imprinted polymeric sorbent. To control the imprinting effect, corresponding non-imprinted particles (NIP) were
prepared in a similar manner except that yttrium ions were not used. The synthesized chemicals for the preparation of the
chelator-initiator compound and the product itself were assessed in every step using 1H-NMR analysis. NIP and YIP were
subjected to X-ray diffraction (XRD), infra-red spectroscopy (IR) and BET surface area analysis for characterization
studies. Sorption/desorption studies were conducted, and the effects of potentially interfering ions, such as Sr2+ (α = 119.69) and Zr4+ (α = 73.01) in presence of radio-yttrium, were investigated (particle size:
50–100 μm, resultant recovery of > 99% within 60 min and a capacity of 33.33 mg
Y(III) per gram of sorbent). The results showed that amounts of radio-yttrium as low as 250 μg could be
extracted effectively with high radionuclidic and radiochemical purity from macro-gram amounts of strontium.
Is the Cortical Deficit in Amblyopia Due to Reduced Cortical Magnification, Loss of Neural Resolution, or Neural Disorganization?
Authors: Clavagnier Simon , Dumoulin Serge O. , Hess Robert F.
Published: November 2015

The neural basis of amblyopia is a matter of debate. The following possibilities have been suggested: loss of foveal cells, reduced cortical magnification, loss of spatial resolution of foveal cells, and topographical disarray in the cellular map. To resolve this we undertook a population receptive field (pRF) functional magnetic resonance imaging analysis in the central field in humans with moderate-to-severe amblyopia. We measured the relationship between averaged pRF size and retinal eccentricity in retinotopic visual areas. Results showed that cortical magnification is normal in the foveal field of strabismic amblyopes. However, the pRF sizes are enlarged for the amblyopic eye. We speculate that the pRF enlargement reflects loss of cellular resolution or an increased cellular positional disarray within the representation of the amblyopic eye.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe neural basis of amblyopia, a visual deficit affecting 3% of the human population, remains a matter of debate. We undertook the first population receptive field functional magnetic resonance imaging analysis in participants with amblyopia and compared the projections from the amblyopic and fellow normal eye in the visual cortex. The projection from the amblyopic eye was found to have a normal cortical magnification factor, enlarged population receptive field sizes, and topographic disorganization in all early visual areas. This is consistent with an explanation of amblyopia as an immature system with a normal complement of cells whose spatial resolution is reduced and whose topographical map is disordered. This bears upon a number of competing theories for the psychophysical defect and affects future treatment therapies.
The Splice Isoforms of the Drosophila Ecdysis Triggering Hormone Receptor Have Developmentally Distinct Roles
Authors: Diao Feici , Mena Wilson , Shi Jonathan , Park Dongkook , Diao Fengqiu , Taghert Paul , Ewer John , White Benjamin H
Published: November 2015

To grow, insects must periodically shed their exoskeletons. This process, called ecdysis, is initiated by the endocrine release of Ecdysis Trigger Hormone (ETH) and has been extensively studied as a model for understanding the hormonal control of behavior. Understanding how ETH regulates ecdysis behavior, however, has been impeded by limited knowledge of the hormone’s neuronal targets. An alternatively spliced gene encoding a G-protein-coupled receptor (ETHR) that is activated by ETH has been identified, and several lines of evidence support a role in ecdysis for its A-isoform. The function of a second ETHR isoform (ETHRB) remains unknown. Here we use the recently introduced “Trojan exon” technique to simultaneously mutate the ETHR gene and gain genetic access to the neurons that express its two isoforms. We show that ETHRA and ETHRB are expressed in largely distinct subsets of neurons and that ETHRA- but not ETHRB-expressing neurons are required for ecdysis at all developmental stages. However, both genetic and neuronal manipulations indicate an essential role for ETHRB at pupal and adult, but not larval, ecdysis. We also identify several functionally important subsets of ETHR-expressing neurons including one that coexpresses the peptide Leucokinin and regulates fluid balance to facilitate ecdysis at the pupal stage. The general strategy presented here of using a receptor gene as an entry point for genetic and neuronal manipulations should be useful in establishing patterns of functional connectivity in other hormonally regulated networks.
Scaphosepalum manningii Luer (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae), a new species for Costa Rica
Authors: Dalström Stig
Published: November 2015

Scaphosepalum manningii, previamente conocida solo por una única recolecta de Venezuela, fue recién descubierta en la reserva forestal Boracayan, en el suroeste de Costa Rica. La especie es ilustrada y comparada con Scaphosepalum clavellatum, una especie estrechamente relacionada y talvéz simpátrica. 
Un nuevo híbrido de Tectaria (Filicales: Tectariaceae) en Costa Rica
Authors: Rojas Alvarado Alexander
Published: November 2015

 Aquí se describe un nuevo híbrido entre Tectaria acutiloba y T. lizarzaburui, de las llanuras del Caribe de Costa Rica. Se discuten los conceptos de T. lizarzaburui y T. vivipara y se propone el uso del primero de estos nombres en el neotrópico continental.
Zentrale Lokomotionsgeneratoren im Rückenmark der Katze und ihre Bedeutung bei der Rehabilitation nach spinalen Läsionen
Authors: Schulze S. , Martens H. , Schmidt M. J. , Dillenseger A.
Published: November 2015

Die Fähigkeit des Rückenmarks, sich nach partiellen oder vollständigen Schädigungen wieder zu erholen und sogar die Gehfähigkeit wiederherzustellen, ist Gegenstand vieler Untersuchungen an Katzen. Wesentliche Erkenntnis dieser Versuche ist, dass selbst nach einer vollständigen Durchtrennung des Rückenmarks auf der Ebene des 12./13. thorakalen Rückenmarksabschnittes eine gute Chance auf Wiederherstellung der Bewegung in den Hintergliedmaßen besteht. Eine wichtige Rolle spielen dabei die im Rückenmark gelegenen zentralen Lokomotionsgeneratoren („central pattern generators“, CPGs). Die CPGs alleine bewirken allerdings keine Reinitiierung der Motorik, sondern ein gezieltes und konsequentes Bewegungstraining, kombiniert unter Umständen mit einer sensorischen Stimulation der Hintergliedmaßen, ist dafür essenziell. Beide Maßnahmen führen zu einer Neuorganisation der CPGs sowie der neuronalen Netzwerke im Rückenmark. Grundsätzlich sind dabei das Alter der Tiere zum Zeitpunkt der Verletzung sowie Ausmaß und Lokalisation der Läsionen von großer Bedeutung. Einen neuen Ansatzpunkt liefert der Einfluss von Neurotransmittern/Neuromodulatoren auf die Regeneration des Rückenmarks. Inwieweit diese das Bewegungstraining unterstützen können, bedarf allerdings noch weiterführender klinischer Untersuchungen.
FXR as a Drug Target to Treat Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis
Authors: Ivy Kathryn Stevens
Published: November 2015

Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC) is a condition that results in the cirrhosis of the liver and eventually liver failure due to impaired bile flow. If left untreated and even if treated, PFIC will result usually in an early death. While the causes of this disease vary, all types present with a similar symptoms and eventual prognosis. There are four main proposed subtypes of intrahepatic cholestasis: disorders of membrane transport and secretion, disorders of bile acid biosynthesis and conjugation, disorders of embryogenesis and lastly, an unclassified group. The careful maintenance of bile salt homeostasis is crucial to the metabolism of fats and normal liver function. These genes are involved with the regulation and transport of bile from hepatocytes into the gallbladder and eventually to the ileum of the small intestines. Because maintenance of symptoms can be regulated to improve longevity and quality of life, it is important to further elucidate the mechanisms that lead to cholestasis. By understanding these mechanisms we can hope to develop treatments that target specifically the precursors and downstream effectors in the previously indicated genes. With early detection of PFIC, there is an opportunity for therapy, however the current pharmacologic opportunities are few and have a low efficacy. Therefore there is much need for a stronger and more selective treatment that can be directed to the cause of PFIC instead of its symptoms. I postulate that FXR is a good target because of its advantageous position as a transcription factor.
The Role of Intellectual Property in Collaborative Research: Crossing the “Valley of Death” by Turning Discovery Into Health
Authors: Pauly Nathan
Published: November 2015

Technology transfer is the process of transforming basic scientific discoveries into commercial products that can be sold to the public. Historically, the federal government has been the country’s largest funder of basic biomedical research through institutions such as the National Institute of Health (NIH). Private corporations utilize scientific knowledge generated at NIH to design drugs and medical devices that are then marketed to the American public. As a taxpayer funded institution, NIH has a fundamental responsibility to optimize the technology transfer process so that the American public receives the greatest return on its investment in the form of new healthcare products. Various laws passed in the 1980s have set up the technology transfer system to revolve around the dispensation of intellectual property rights. In recent years several prominent critiques of the technology transfer system’s use of intellectual property rights have emerged in academic literature. In order to assess the validity of these critiques I conducted ten oral history interviews with administrators at NIH that are deeply involved in the technology transfer process. This paper will demonstrate that many of the criticisms that are posed in academic literature do not impact research at NIH. However, interviews with officials at NIH indicate that there is still friction in the system that prevents the American public from receiving the maximum return on its investment.
The Cosmological Mosaic in Mérida, Spain: Preserving Pagan Roman Tradition through Art
Authors: Richards Zachary J.
Published: November 2015

The Cosmological Mosaic, a Roman imperial period mosaic found in Mérida in western Spain, has been the subject of inquiry for numerous archaeologists and art historians since its excavation in the 1960s. Though a large portion is no longer extant, there is much to be gleaned about this mosaic through the stylistic, scientific, historical, political, and religious contexts in which it finds itself. The visual resemblance to other mosaics in the Middle East and North Africa show that this work was invested with connections and interests spanning across the large empire. This view is supported by the elements of astronomy found in the work and how they relate to the possibility of an abundantly prosperous society. With this, one may deduce what exactly would have occupied the missing portion of the mosaic. The time period in which the mosaic was likely constructed provides insight into the political climate of the era, which then reveals the possibility of religious motivation for installing the mosaic in its space. Here, I intertwine all of these factors to speculate on the significance of the Cosmological Mosaic, not only in terms of broader history of art, but for the motivations of its ancient Roman owner as well.
Impacts of Global Christian Engagement on Economic Development vis-a-vis Human Trafficking Elimination Efforts
Authors: King Rachel Ellen
Published: November 2015

Christians have engaged in economic development projects ever since the early days of the colonial period. The gap between religion and economics has only increased over time as groups from both fields are guilty of distancing themselves and their work from the categorical “other.” Such a tendency perpetuates mutual misunderstandings of the opposite members’ motivations for involvement in economic enterprises. We have seen an unprecedented response of NGOs to global issues such as poverty and human trafficking, however these problems are too big for organizations to attempt to tackle alone or unilaterally. Now more than ever, there is a need for multiparty communication, coordination, cooperation and collaboration efforts between faith-based organizations and their secular counterparts. This paper argues that current trends toward global economic development are a direct result of earlier Christian colonial missions, thus religious rhetoric is a constitutive element of contemporary discourses on development. This paper pays particular attention to faith dialogues and interfaith commitments--or lack thereof--regarding anti-trafficking initiatives worldwide.
CXCR3+ Regulatory T Cells Control TH1 Responses in Crescentic GN
Authors: Paust Hans-Joachim , Riedel Jan-Hendrik , Krebs Christian F. , Turner Jan-Eric , Brix Silke R. , Krohn Sonja , Velden Joachim , Wiech Thorsten , Kaffke Anna , Peters Anett , Bennstein Sabrina B. , Kapffer Sonja , Meyer-Schwesinger Catherine , Wegscheid Claudia , Tiegs Gisa , Thaiss Friedrich , Mittrücker Hans-Willi , Steinmetz Oliver M. , Stahl Rolf A.K. , Panzer Ulf
Published: November 2015

Chemokines and chemokine receptors are implicated in regulatory T cell (Treg) trafficking to sites of inflammation and suppression of excessive immune responses in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases; however, the specific requirements for Treg migration into the inflamed organs and the positioning of these cells within the tissue are incompletely understood. Here, we report that Tregs expressing the TH1–associated chemokine receptor CXCR3 are enriched in the kidneys of patients with ANCA–associated crescentic GN and colocalize with CXCR3+ effector T cells. To investigate the functional role of CXCR3+ Tregs, we generated mice that lack CXCR3 in Tregs specifically (Foxp3eGFP-Cre × Cxcr3fl/fl) and induced experimental crescentic GN. Treg-specific deletion of CXCR3 resulted in reduced Treg recruitment to the kidney and an overwhelming TH1 immune response, with an aggravated course of the nephritis that was reversible on anti-IFNγ treatment. Together, these findings show that a subset of Tregs expresses CXCR3 and thereby, acquires trafficking properties of pathogenic CXCR3+ TH1 cells, allowing Treg localization and control of excessive TH1 responses at sites of inflammation.
Monetary Policy, Incomplete Information, and the Zero Lower Bound
Authors: Gust Christopher , Johannsen Benjamin K. , López-Salido J. David
Published: November 2015

In the context of a stylized New Keynesian model, we explore the interaction between imperfect knowledge about the state of the economy and the zero lower bound. We show that optimal policy under discretion near the zero lower bound responds to signals about an increase in the equilibrium real interest rate by less than it would when far from the zero lower bound. In addition, we show that Taylor-type rules that either include a time-varying intercept that moves with perceived changes in the equilibrium real rate or that respond aggressively to deviations of inflation and output from their target levels perform similarly to optimal discretionary policy. Our analysis of first-difference rules highlights that rules with interest rate smoothing terms carry forward current and past misperceptions about the state of the economy and can lead to suboptimal performance.
Why Do Short Sellers Like Qualitative News?
Authors: von Beschwitz Bastian , Chuprinin Oleg , Massa Massimo
Published: November 2015

Short sellers trade more on days with qualitative news – i.e. news containing fewer numbers. We show that this behavior is not informationally motivated but can be explained by short sellers exploiting higher liquidity on such days. We document that liquidity and noise trading increase in the presence of qualitative news thus enabling short sellers to better disguise their informed trades. Natural experiments support our findings. For example, qualitative news has a bigger effect on short sellers’ trading after a decrease in liquidity following a stock's deletion from S&P 500 and a lower effect when investor attention is distracted by the Olympic Games.
Social and Solidarity Economy: Beyond the Fringe
Authors: Scott Sonya
Published: November 2015

Reseña del libro "Social and Solidarity Economy: Beyond the Fringe" Peter Utting (Ed.)
 
Una crítica vacilante: cómo el potencial del Comercio Justo disminuye con "éxito"
Authors: Hudson Ian , Hudson Mark
Published: November 2015

En términos generales, el objetivo del Comercio Justo es mejorar la vida de desarrollo de los productores nacionales. Para ello, el comercio justo, como cualquier otro movimiento de consumidores éticos, debe cambiar el comportamiento de los consumidores. Esto tiene la ventaja potencial de consumo defetishizing animando a la gente a cuestionar el impacto social y medioambiental de sus compras. Sin embargo, debido a que está sujeta a la lógica de un mercado caracterizado por la competencia y el conocimiento del consumidor limitada, el Comercio Justo también contiene características inherentes que trabajan contra este potencial mediante la reducción de la distinción entre el comercio justo y la producción convencional. Si el Comercio Justo es tanto maximizar su beneficio a los productores y animar a la gente a cuestionar la producción convencional, debe revertir su actual tendencia de oscurecer la distinción entre comercio justo y la producción convencional.
¿Quién es el dueño de los átomos? Nanotecnologías y derecho de propiedad intelectual
Authors: Carrozza Tomás Javier , Brieva Susana Silvia
Published: November 2015

En América Latina, bajo la premisa de una mejor competitividad, han aumentado exponencialmente
los recursos dirigidos al desarrollo de las nanotecnologías. En este marco, las discusiones en torno a la aplicación de derechos de propiedad intelectual en nanotecnologías ocupan un lugar central. Al margen de la preocupación expresada tanto en ámbitos públicos como privados, resulta escasa la producción académica referida a dichos derechos en esta área. De ahí que este trabajo se proponga problematizar acerca de la aplicación de los derechos de propiedad intelectual en el desarrollo de nanotecnologías, mediante la selección y revisión crítica de la literatura disponible. Del análisis se desprende la existencia de una controversia en torno a las restricciones que impone la aplicación de patentes al uso de productos de ‘primera generación’, lo que enfrenta, por un lado, a quienes reclaman derechos a retribución por regalías en I+D y, por otro, a quienes plantean el acceso libre al conocimiento científico-técnico.
El capital en el siglo XXI de Thomas Piketty
Authors: Falconí Benítez Fander
Published: November 2015

Reseña de El capital en el siglo XXI 
El gobierno de los indios. Antropología de la formación del estado en Oaxaca, México
Authors: Castro Neira Yerko
Published: November 2015

Este artículo estudia la formación del estado en México, en particular en el estado de Oaxaca, lugar donde se analiza el papel de las formas de gobierno indígena en la construcción de un orden estatal. Con base en material etnográfico se muestra cómo el concepto de gobierno de los indios circula por una variedad de escenarios en donde actores diferentes –juristas, académicos, líderes e intelectuales indígenas– contribuyen a su definición en la vida cotidiana, de manera que el estado se produce y reproduce incesablemente. Estos diversos sitios dan cuenta de la existencia, en México,
de un estado que encuentra su potencia en su propio carácter fragmentado y descentrado, al tiempo que formula su existencia en referencia al derecho y la ley.
Instrumentalización de la acción pública en educación superior en Argentina. Políticas sobre trabajo académico y negociación colectiva
Authors: Pérez Pedro Enrique , Solanas Facundo
Published: November 2015

A partir de las diferentes transformaciones producidas desde la década de 1990, tanto a nivel internacional como nacional, se busca en primer lugar analizar los dispositivos introducidos en el ámbito de la educación superior, así como los impactos que han producido en el caso argentino. En segundo lugar, con la crisis del paradigma neoliberal se observa una recomposición y homologación salarial, acompañadas de medidas de desarrollo y fortalecimiento de la carrera académica, que se enmarcan en una ampliación de la agenda de regulación de las relaciones laborales académicas desde el ámbito paritario.

Partiendo de las herramientas proporcionadas por el análisis de políticas públicas, se propone el estudio de fuentes documentales para establecer las continuidades y cambios de estos dispositivos. Para ello, se tomará en cuenta el caso de la experiencia de la negociación paritaria nacional en general y la negociación paritaria en particular de la Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata.
El modelo de gobierno abierto en América latina. Paralelismo de las políticas públicas de transparencia y la corrupción
Authors: Vera Martínez Martín Cutberto , Rocha Romero David , Martínez Rodríguez María Concepción
Published: November 2015

En el siguiente artículo se analizan de las políticas públicas de reforma administrativa y de institucionalización del acceso a la información pública en México, Guatemala y Honduras, como factores clave para la evaluación de su vinculación con la modernización y mejora de la administración pública y el combate a la corrupción.
Violencia y autodefensas comunitarias en Michoacán, México
Authors: Fuentes Díaz Antonio , Paleta Pérez Guillermo
Published: November 2015

El artículo aborda el tema de la violencia y la emergencia de grupos de defensa comunitaria en Michoacán, México. En el texto se discute el surgimiento de estos grupos en las regiones de Tierra Caliente y en la Meseta Purépecha a partir de la defensa de su territorio y la obtención de seguridad y justicia, en un contexto de inseguridad y violencia producido por las actividades delictivas del crimen organizado en esa entidad. Se analiza la vinculación entre la transformación económica estructural en dichas regiones y la aparición de nuevas formas de operación del crimen organizado, vinculación que alteró el equilibrio en el orden local establecido entre ilegalismo, Estado y comunidad, lo que permitió el surgimiento de la defensa comunitaria.
Manual de análisis y diseño de políticas públicas de Gonzalo Ordoñez – Matamoros
Authors: Montenegro Hidalgo Vannesa
Published: November 2015

Reseña de Manual de Análisis y Diseño de Políticas Públicas
The level of post-traumatic stress and psychopathological symptoms in patients with meningioma after surgical treatment
Authors: Tarabrina N.V. , Kharlamenkova N. , Nikitina D.
Published: November 2015

The article is devoted to the empirical study of specificity and posttraumatic psy-chopathology in patients were operated for meningiomas. Subjects: 16 patients with meningiomas (women aged from 27 to 67 years, the average age is 52). The survey was conducted 6 months after surgical treatment in Burdenko Research Institute of Neurosurgery. Methods: Impact of Event Scale — IES-R; Symptom Check List-90-Revised, SCL-90-R. Results: Some patients who were undergone surgery for benign brain tumor (i.e. meningioma) have signs of post-traumatic stress; their availability indicates on partial PTSD. This conclusion is supported by the similar¬ity between the surveyed group of psychopathological symptoms and patients with breast cancer and partial PTSD, and by the difference between the surveyed group and patients breast cancer and high and low levels of post-traumatic stress. The empirical research has been continuing.
Comparative analysis of internal consultations and internet counseling parents of children with disabilities
Authors: Baulina M.E.
Published: November 2015

The article is devoted to comparison of internal counseling parents of children with disabilities with Internet consultation in "offline" form. Examines the practical experience of providing remote psychological assistance, the main difficulties and the advantages of this type of counseling. The most common categories of needs of parents, allowing to make conclusions about what motivates them to receive psychological assistance. The article emphasizes that, despite the limitations of online counseling, this form of psychological assistance must be present on the market of advisory services. The answers on the questions in "offline" form ensure the quick and easy access to information, what undoubtedly need parents who are raising children with disabilities.
On functions of dreams and dream-telling in the context of group dynamics
Authors: Chistiakov M.S.
Published: November 2015

This article narrates how the views on the function, the role and the use of dreams in therapy have developed in psychoanalysis . The article makes the assumption that dreams are brought to the group not from the beginning, but that the retelling of dreams is related to the particular phase of group development. It is assumed that the retelling of dreams and their processing in a group helps to restore the integrity of the "inner image of the group", that participants have, when it is under destruction in connection with the open or concealed conflicts in the group. It is also assumed that retelling of the dreams and their processing in the group may fulfill several other functions (relieving of separation anxiety for participants, associated with interruptions in the work of the group; a "leveling, regulating" effect on the activity level of the participants and on the degree of their involvement in what is going on in the group; aligning the positions of those who are "slightly behind" and those who are "slightly ahead" in meeting the challenges of group development).
Drawing after model and voice instructions as a method of developing spatial perception for children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Shumskaia N.A.
Published: November 2015

The article presents the experience of working with autistic children on development of spatial perception under neuropsychological approach. Child's development of adequate spatial perception is a current problem since it is a crucial element of school program. The article contains sequence and content of educational work that deals with finding a way of motivating the child, increase skills of planning, organizing, sequencing, prioritizing and shifting attention.
Una década en el rescate de los archivos existentes en la Casa de Moneda de México
Authors: Herrera Canales Inés María
Published: November 2015

El propósito de este artículo es presentar las actividades realizadas por el Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) en los últimos diez años con el fin de rescatar, ordenar, indentificar y crear el Archivo Histórico de la Casa de Moneda de México. Esta tarea ha sido producto de la colaboración entre dos instituciones: la Casa de Mondeda de México y el Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH), el apoyo de la Agencia Española de Coperación Internacional (AECI), Fundación Histórica Tavera de España y el Consejo Nacional de Ciencuia y Tecnología de México (CONACYT); y la labor de numerosas personas que trabajaron en este proyecto en tareas académicas, técnicas, administrativas y manuales.