bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Montelukast and Antiadhesion Barrier Solution on the Capsule Formation after Insertion of Silicone Implants in a White Rat Model
Authors: Yang J.-D. , Kwon O.-H. , Lee J.-W. , Chung H.-Y. , Cho B.-C. , Park H.-Y. , Kim T.-G.
Published: December 2013

Background and Purposes: Capsular contracture is one of the most severe complications that can occur in breast surgery following silicone implant insertion. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of montelukast and antiadhesion barrier solution (AABS) on reducing capsular formation and their possible synergism. Materials andMethods: This study was approved by the Animal Ethics Committee (Reference No. KNU 2012-33) and was conducted in accordance with the Kyungpook National University - Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, Animal Ethics Committee. The experiments in this study were conducted in vivo in 4 groups of 24 rats. Following silicone implant insertion, the pocket was injected with different agents. Group I (control group) was given normal saline injections into the pocket and fed with pure water. Group II was given injections of AABS and fed with pure water. Group III was given injections of normal saline and the medication montelukast during the experimental period. Group IV was given injections of AABS and montelukast as postoperative medication. Peri-implant capsules were excised after 8 weeks and were evaluated for transparency, inflammatory cell content, capsule thickness, collagen pattern and TGF-β expression. Results: The capsules in the experimental groups (i.e., groups II-IV) were significantly more transparent than those in group I (controls; p < 0.05, Student's t test). The mean capsule thickness of the experimental groups II (296 ± 14.76 μm), III (280 ± 14.77 μm) and IV (276 ± 39.28 μm) was smaller than that of the control group I (361 ± 35.43 μm). Compared to the control group, the histologic findings in the experimental groups suggested a decreased inflammatory response occurring in the peri-implant capsules as they exhibited minor vascularization and a reduced number of mast cells and macrophages. The collagen patterns in the experimental groups were of a lower density than in the control group with the former showing a loose, tidy collagen pattern. The amounts of TGF-β and collagen I were higher in the control group than in the experimental groups. Group IV (the synergic effect group) had a more pronounced effect on all the parameters examined than that in groups II and III with separate drug administration. Conclusions: Montelukast and AABS reduced the thickness, the inflammatory cell infiltrate and the myofibroblast content of the peri-implant capsules around silicone implants in this white rat model. They lowered the expression of the fibrotic mediator, TGF-β, and inhibited the peri-implant capsular fibrosis. Therefore, montelukast and AABS are effective in the reduction of silicone-induced peri-implant capsular formation.
Myeloperoxidase Directs Properdin-Mediated Complement Activation
Authors: O'Flynn Joseph , Dixon Karen O. , Faber Krol Maria C. , Daha Mohamed R. , van Kooten Cees
Published: December 2013

Neutrophils and complement are key members of innate immunity. The alternative pathway (AP) of complement consists of C3, factor B, factor D and properdin, which amplifies AP activation. AP has been implicated in many neutrophil-mediated diseases, such as anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis. The exact mechanism by which the AP and neutrophils interact remains largely unstudied. We investigated the ability of the AP to interact with neutrophil components which can be exposed and released upon activation. Our studies focused on neutrophil enzymes, including myeloperoxidase (MPO), proteinase 3 (PR3), azurocidin, elastase, lysozyme and cathepsin G. All enzymes except for azurocidin were able to bind properdin. However, only MPO could induce C3 activation. MPO mediated AP complement activation in the presence of MgEGTA compared to the EDTA control. This activation resulted in C3 deposition and required properdin to occur. Furthermore, we could show that MPO binds properdin directly, which then serves as a focus for AP activation. In summary, properdin can directly interact with neutrophil components. MPO demonstrates the ability to activate the AP which is dependent on properdin. Finally, MPO is capable of inducing properdin-initiated C3 and C5b-9 deposition in vitro.
Manipulation of Arthropod Sex Determination by Endosymbionts: Diversity and Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Ma W.-J. , Vavre F. , Beukeboom L.W.
Published: December 2013

Arthropods exhibit a large variety of sex determination systems both at the chromosomal and molecular level. Male heterogamety, female heterogamety, and haplodiploidy occur frequently, but partially different genes are involved. Endosymbionts, such as Wolbachia, Cardinium,Rickettsia, and Spiroplasma, can manipulate host reproduction and sex determination. Four major reproductive manipulation types are distinguished: cytoplasmic incompatibility, thelytokous parthenogenesis, male killing, and feminization. In this review, the effects of these manipulation types and how they interfere with arthropod sex determination in terms of host developmental timing, alteration of sex determination, and modification of sexual differentiation pathways are summarized. Transitions between different manipulation types occur frequently which suggests that they are based on similar molecular processes. It is also discussed how mechanisms of reproductive manipulation and host sex determination can be informative on each other, with a special focus on haplodiploidy. Future directions on how the study of endosymbiotic manipulation of host reproduction can be key to further studies of arthropod sex determination are shown.
Phylogenetic Distribution and Evolutionary Dynamics of the Sex Determination Genes doublesex and transformer in Insects
Authors: Geuverink E. , Beukeboom L.W.
Published: December 2013

Sex determination in insects is characterized by a gene cascade that is conserved at the bottom but contains diverse primary signals at the top. The bottom master switch gene doublesex is found in all insects. Its upstream regulator transformer is present in the orders Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera, but has thus far not been found in Lepidoptera and in the basal lineages of Diptera. transformer is presumed to be ancestral to the holometabolous insects based on its shared domains and conserved features of autoregulation and sex-specific splicing. We interpret that its absence in basal lineages of Diptera and its order-specific conserved domains indicate multiple independent losses or recruitments into the sex determination cascade. Duplications of transformer are found in derived families within the Hymenoptera, characterized by their complementary sex determination mechanism. As duplications are not found in any other insect order, they appear linked to the haplodiploid reproduction of the Hymenoptera. Further phylogenetic analyses combined with functional studies are needed to understand the evolutionary history of the transformer gene among insects.
Effect of Periodontal Treatment in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Pejcic Ana , Djordjevic Vidojko , Kojovic Draginja , Zivkovic Vesna , Minic Ivan , Mirkovic Dimitrije , Stojanovic Mariola
Published: December 2013

Objective: To evaluate the effect of periodontal treatment on gingival overgrowth in a group of renal transplant patients. Subjects and Methods: Twenty-five renal transplant recipients receiving immunosuppressive therapy with cyclosporine A (CsA) were randomly assigned to 2 groups. Group 1 (n = 15) included patients who had been specifically referred to a dental clinic to prevent gingival overgrowth and were given full periodontal therapy. Group 2 (n = 10) was comprised of patients who did not receive any professional periodontal cleaning. Patients from both groups were examined to determine their periodontal status before and after 3, 6 and 12 months in terms of their plaque index, gingival index and gingival overgrowth. During the examination, their overall health was stable. Results: For group 1, the scores were 1.89 (baseline), 0.98 (6 months) and 0.56 (12 months), and hence there were significant reductions (p = 0.0001). The gingival indices were 1.71 (baseline), 0.76 (6 months) and 0.35 (12 months), and the reductions were also significant (p = 0.0001). A significant association was observed between poor oral hygiene and the degree of gingival overgrowth. The 1-year post-treatment follow-up showed that patients in group 1 did not develop gingival overgrowth due to the use of CsA as group 2 did without prior periodontal therapy. Conclusion: Oral hygiene status was the most important variable related to the development and degree of gingival overgrowth due to the use of CsA.
Cost-Effectiveness of Lapatinib plus Letrozole in Post-Menopausal Women with Hormone Receptor- and HER2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Delea Thomas E. , Hawkes Carol , Amonkar Mayur M. , Lykopoulos Konstantinos , Johnston Stephen R. D.
Published: December 2013

Background: In the EGF30008 and TAnDEM (TrAstuzumab in Dual HER2 ER-positive Metastatic breast cancer) trials, anti-HER2 therapy plus an aromatase inhibitor (lapatinib + letrozole (LAP + LET) and trastuzumb + anastrozole (TZ + ANA), respectively) improved time to progression versus aromatase inhibitor monotherapy (LET and ANA, respectively) in post-menopausal women with previously untreated hormone receptor-positive (HR+) and HER2-positive (HER2+) metastatic breast cancer. Methods: A partitioned-survival analysis model using data from EGF30008 and published results of TAnDEM and other literature was used to evaluate the incremental direct medical cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained with LAP + LET versus LET, ANA, and TZ + ANA in post-menopausal women with previously untreated HR+ and HER2+ metastatic breast cancer from the UK National Health Service (NHS) perspective. Results: Incremental costs for LAP + LET are £ 34,737 versus LET, £ 35,995 versus ANA, and £ 5,513 versus TZ + ANA. Corresponding QALYs gained are 0.467, 0.601, and 0.252 years. Cost/QALY gained with LAP + LET is £ 74,448 versus LET, £ 59,895 versus ANA, and £ 21,836 versus TZ + ANA. Given a threshold of £ 30,000/QALY, the estimated probability that LAP + LET is cost-effective is 1.4% versus LET, 9.2% versus ANA, and 51% versus TZ + ANA. Conclusions: Based on criteria for the evaluation of health technologies in the UK (£ 30,000/QALY), LAP + LET is not likely to be cost-effective versus aromatase inhibitor monotherapy but may be cost-effective versus TZ + ANA, although the latter comparison is associated with substantial uncertainty.
Genomic Profiling in Luminal Breast Cancer
Authors: Gluz Oleg , Hofmann Daniel , Würstlein Rachel , Liedtke Cornelia , Nitz Ulrike , Harbeck Nadia
Published: December 2013

SummaryThe developments in gene expression analysis have made it possible to sub-classify hormone receptor-positive (luminal) breast cancer in different prognostic subgroups. This sub-classification is currently used in clinical routine as prognostic signature (e.g. 21-gene Onoctype DX®, 70-gene Mammaprint®). As yet, the optimal method for sub-classification has not been defined. Moreover, there is no evidence from prospective trials. This review explores widely used genomic signatures in luminal breast cancer, making a critical appraisal of evidence from retrospective/prospective trials. It is based on systematic literature search performed using Medline (accessed September 2013) and abstracts presented at the Annual Meeting of American Society of Clinical Oncology and San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.
Associations Between Dietary Patterns and Skin Microcirculation in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Karatzi Kalliopi , Protogerou Athanase , Kesse-Guyot Emmanuelle , Fezeu Leopold K. , Carette Claire , Blacher Jacques , Levy Bernard I. , Galan Pilar , Hercberg Serge , Czernichow Sebastien
Published: December 2013

Objective—

Microvascular dysfunction is suggested to be a marker of common pathophysiological mechanisms in the development of insulin resistance, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Given the established relationship of diet with the macrovascular disease, the aim of this study was to investigate for the first time the possible associations between dietary patterns and microcirculation.

Approach and Results—

Two hundred ninety-one healthy men and women selected from the Supplementation en Vitamines et Mineraux Antioxydants 2’ cohort were assessed for anthropometric, nutritional, biochemical, and microcirculation parameters using finger skin capillaroscopy. Dietary intake was assessed cross-sectionally using a food frequency questionnaire, and principal component analysis was used to identify dietary patterns from 40 food groups. Six dietary patterns were identified. A dietary pattern characterized by increased consumption of vegetable oils, poultry, and fish and seafood was positively associated with both functional and anatomic capillary density after adjusting for confounders (
β
=0.13,
P
=0.05 and
β=
0.20,
P=
0.00, respectively). A second dietary pattern with increased consumption of sweets was inversely associated with functional and anatomic capillary density in all multivariate models (
β
=−0.14,
P
=0.03 and
β=
−0.17,
P=
0.01). There were no associations between any of the derived dietary patterns and capillary recruitment.

Conclusions—

In healthy subjects, a dietary pattern characterized by an increased consumption of vegetable oils, poultry, and fish and seafood and low consumption of sweets was associated with better microvascular function. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm the present association.
Novel Lipid Droplet–Associated Serine Hydrolase Regulates Macrophage Cholesterol Mobilization
Authors: Goo Young-Hwa , Son Se-Hee , Kreienberg Paul B. , Paul Antoni
Published: December 2013

Objective—

Lipid-laden macrophages or foam cells are characterized by massive cytosolic lipid droplet (LD) deposition containing mostly cholesterol ester (CE) derived from the lipoproteins cleared from the arterial wall. Cholesterol efflux from foam cells is considered to be atheroprotective. Because cholesterol is effluxed as free cholesterol, CE accumulation in LDs may limit free cholesterol efflux. Our objective was to identify proteins that regulate cholesterol trafficking through LDs.

Approach and Results—

In a proteomic analysis of the LD fraction of RAW 264.7 macrophages, we identified an evolutionarily conserved protein with a canonical GXSXG lipase catalytic motif and a predicted α/β-hydrolase fold, the RIKEN cDNA 1110057K04 gene, which we named LD-associated hydrolase (LDAH). LDAH association with LDs was confirmed by immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry. LDAH was labeled with a probe specific for active serine hydrolases. LDAH showed relatively weak in vitro CE hydrolase activity. However, cholesterol measurements in intact cells supported a significant role of LDAH in CE homeostasis because LDAH upregulation and downregulation decreased and increased, respectively, intracellular cholesterol and CE in human embryonic kidney-293 cells and RAW 264.7 macrophages. Mutation of the putative nucleophilic serine impaired active hydrolase probe binding, in vitro CE hydrolase activity, and cholesterol-lowering effect in cells, whereas this mutant still localized to the LD. LDAH upregulation increased CE hydrolysis and cholesterol efflux from macrophages, and, interestingly, LDAH is highly expressed in macrophage-rich areas within mouse and human atherosclerotic lesions.

Conclusions—

The data identify a candidate target to promote reverse cholesterol transport from atherosclerotic lesions.
Cystathionine γ-lyase Accelerates Osteoclast Differentiation
Authors: Itou Takahiro , Maldonado Natalia , Yamada Iwao , Goettsch Claudia , Matsumoto Jiro , Aikawa Masanori , Singh Sasha , Aikawa Elena
Published: December 2013

Objective—

Clinical evidence has linked vascular calcification in advanced atherosclerotic plaques with overt cardiovascular disease and mortality. Bone resorbing monocyte-derived osteoclast-like cells are sparse in these plaques, indicating that their differentiation capability could be suppressed. Here, we seek to characterize the process of osteoclastogenesis by identifying novel regulators and pathways, with the aim of exploring possible strategies to reduce calcification.

Approach and Results—

We used a quantitative mass spectrometry strategy, tandem mass tagging, to quantify changes in the proteome of osteoclast-like cells differentiated from RAW264.7 cells in response to, receptor activator of nuclear factor κ-B ligand induction, a common in vitro model for osteogenesis. More than 4000 proteins were quantified, of which 138 were identified as novel osteoclast-related proteins. We selected 5 proteins for subsequent analysis (cystathionine γ-lyase [Cth/CSE], EGF-like repeat and discoidin I–like domain–containing protein 3, integrin α FG-GAP repeat containing 3, adseverin, and serpinb6b) and show that gene expression levels are also increased. Further analysis of the CSE transcript profile reveals an early onset of an mRNA increase. Silencing of CSE by siRNA and
dl
-propargylglycine, a CSE inhibitor, attenuated receptor activator of nuclear factor κ-B ligand–induced tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase type 5 activity and pit formation, suggesting that CSE is a potent inducer of calcium resorption. Moreover, knockdown of CSE suppressed expression of osteoclast differentiation markers.

Conclusions—

Our large-scale proteomics study identified novel candidate regulators or markers for osteoclastogenesis and demonstrated that CSE may act in early stages of osteoclastogenesis.
Inhibition of Arthritis in the Lewis Rat by Apolipoprotein A-I and Reconstituted High-Density Lipoproteins
Authors: Wu Ben J. , Ong Kwok L. , Shrestha Sudichhya , Chen Kang , Tabet Fatiha , Barter Philip J. , Rye Kerry-Anne
Published: December 2013

Objective—

This study questions whether high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) and apolipoprotein A-I inhibit joint inflammation in streptococcal cell wall peptidoglycan-polysaccharide (PG-PS)–induced arthritis in female Lewis rats.

Approach and Results—

Administration of PG-PS to female Lewis rats caused acute joint inflammation after 4 days, followed by remission by day 8. The animals subsequently developed chronic joint inflammation that persisted until euthanasia at day 21. Treatment with apolipoprotein A-I 24 hours before and 24 hours after PG-PS administration reduced the acute and chronic joint inflammation. Treatment with apolipoprotein A-I at days 7, 9, and 11 after PG-PS administration reduced the chronic joint inflammation. Treatment with apolipoprotein A-I or reconstituted HDLs consisting of apolipoprotein A-I complexed with phosphatidylcholine 24 hours before and at days 1, 7, 9, and 11 after PG-PS administration reduced acute and chronic joint inflammation. Treatment with apolipoprotein A-I also reduced the inflammatory white blood cell count, synovial fluid proinflammatory cytokine levels, synovial tissue macrophage accumulation, as well as toll-like receptor 2, and inflammatory cytokine expression. At the molecular level, preincubation of human monocyte–derived macrophages with apolipoprotein A-I or reconstituted HDLs before PG-PS stimulation inhibited the PG-PS–induced increase in toll-like receptor 2 and myeloid differentiation primary response gene (88) mRNA levels, nuclear factor-κB activation, and proinflammatory cytokine production. The effects of apolipoprotein A-I and reconstituted HDLs were abolished by transfecting the human monocyte–derived macrophages with ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 or G1 siRNA.

Conclusions—

Apolipoprotein A-I and reconstituted HDLs attenuate PG-PS–induced arthritis in the rat. Studies in human monocyte–derived macrophages indicate that this benefit may be because of the inhibition of toll-like receptor 2 expression and decreased nuclear factor-κB activation in macrophages.
Insulin-Regulated Protein Palmitoylation Impacts Endothelial Cell Function
Authors: Wei Xiaochao , Song Haowei , Semenkovich Clay F.
Published: December 2013

Objective—

Defects in insulin signaling are associated with abnormal endothelial cell function, which occurs commonly in cardiovascular disease. Targets of insulin signaling in endothelial cells are incompletely understood. Protein S-palmitoylation, the reversible modification of proteins by the lipid palmitate, is a post-translational process relevant to cell signaling, but little is known about the role of insulin in protein palmitoylation.

Approach and Results—

To test the hypothesis that insulin alters protein palmitoylation in endothelial cells, we combined acyl-biotin exchange chemistry with stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture to perform quantitative proteomic profiling of human endothelial cells. We identified ≈380 putative palmitoylated proteins, of which >200 were not known to be palmitoylated; ≈10% of the putative palmitoylated proteins were induced or suppressed by insulin. Of those potentially affected by insulin, <10 have been implicated in vascular function. For one, platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase IB subunit gamma (PAFAH1b3; not previously known to be palmitoylated), we confirmed that insulin stimulated palmitoylation without affecting PAFAH1b3 protein abundance. Chemical inhibition of palmitoylation prevented insulin-induced angiogenesis in vitro; knockdown of PAFAH1b3 had the same effect. PAFAH1b3 knockdown also disrupted cell migration. Mutagenesis of cysteines at residues 56 and 206 prevented palmitoylation of PAFAH1b3, abolished its capacity to stimulate cell migration, and inhibited its association with detergent-resistant membranes, which are implicated in cell signaling. Insulin promoted the association of wild-type PAFAH1b3 with detergent-resistant membranes.

Conclusions—

These findings provide proof of principle for using proteomics to identify novel insulin-inducible palmitoylation targets relevant to endothelial function.
Randomized Comparison of Xience V and Multi-Link Vision Coronary Stents in the Same Multivessel Patient With Chronic Kidney Disease (RENAL-DES) Study
Authors: Tomai Fabrizio , Ribichini Flavio , De Luca Leonardo , Petrolini Alessandro , Ghini Anna S. , Weltert Luca , Spaccarotella Carmen , Proietti Igino , Trani Carlo , Nudi Francesco , Pighi Michele , Vassanelli Corrado
Published: December 2013

Background—

Percutaneous coronary interventions in patients with chronic kidney disease have shown suboptimal results. Drug-eluting stents (DES) might reduce the rate of target vessel revascularization in comparison with bare-metal stents (BMS) in patients with chronic kidney disease. However, given the multiple concomitant individual variables present in such patients, the comparison of neointimal growth after percutaneous coronary intervention is complex and difficult to assess.

Methods and Results—

Randomized Comparison of Xience V and Multi-Link Vision Coronary Stents in the Same Multivessel Patient with Chronic Kidney Disease (RENAL-DES) was a prospective, randomized, multicenter study to directly compare the efficacy in the prevention of clinical restenosis of everolimus-eluting stent (Xience V) and BMS with an identical design (Multi-Link Vision), both implanted in the same patient with multivessel coronary artery disease and chronic kidney disease (estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min). The primary end point of the study was the ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization as detected with myocardial scintigraphy at 12 months. In 215 patients, 512 coronary vessels were successfully treated with the randomly assigned DES (n=257) or BMS (n=255). At 1 year, the rate of ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization for DES and BMS groups was 2.7% (95% confidence interval, 1.1%–5.6%) and 11.4% (95% confidence interval, 7.8% to 16%), respectively,
P
<0.001. For the multivariate analysis, independent predictors of the ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization were BMS implantation (odds ratio, 4.95; 95% confidence interval, 2.1–11.6;
P
<0.001) and vessel size (odds ratio, 0.32; 95% confidence interval, 0.1–0.7;
P
=0.006).

Conclusions—

This is the first randomized trial showing a reduction of clinical restenosis with a new-generation DES in comparison with a BMS of equal design, in patients who have chronic kidney disease with multivessel coronary artery disease.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00818792.
Perfusion of Ischemic Brain in Young and Aged Animals
Authors: Manwani Bharti , Friedler Brett , Verma Rajkumar , Venna Venugopal Reddy , McCullough Louise D. , Liu Fudong
Published: December 2013

Background and Purpose—

Aging is an important determinant of ischemic stroke outcomes. Both clinical and experimental stroke studies have shown that aging negatively correlates with infarct volumes but is associated with worsened functional recovery after stroke. This may correspond to a differing cellular and molecular response to stroke in the aged versus young brain. It was hypothesized in this study that the smaller injury seen in the aged ischemic brain is because of structural differences in microvasculature with aging or differences in intraischemic tissue perfusion.

Methods—

Both young and aged C57BL6 mice were subject to middle cerebral artery occlusion modeling. Laser speckle flowmetry was used to study the functional dynamics of cerebral perfusion, and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran staining was performed to examine the structural change in microvasculature. In separate cohorts, cresyl violet staining and immunohistochemistry with CD31 and IgG antibodies were applied to further assess the microvascular density and blood–brain barrier breakdown after stroke.

Results—

No difference in cerebral blood flow was seen at the baseline, intraischemically, and postreperfusion in young versus aged mice. FITC-dextran and CD31 staining did not show significant differences in the microvascular density between young and aged ischemic brains. More extravasation of IgG through the blood–brain barrier was found in the young versus aged cohort at both 24 and 72 hours after stroke.

Conclusions—

Cerebrovascular dynamics and perfusion are not responsible for the different stroke phenotypes seen in the young versus aged animals, which may be more related to different levels of blood–brain barrier breakdown.
Catastrophic Natural Disasters and Economic Growth
Authors: Cavallo Eduardo , Galiani Sebastian , Noy Ilan , Pantano Juan
Published: December 2013

We examine the average causal impact of catastrophic natural disasters on economic growth by combining information from comparative case studies. For each country affected by a large disaster, we compute the counterfactual by constructing synthetic controls. We find that only extremely large disasters have a negative effect on output in both the short and the long runs. However, we also show that this results from two events where radical political revolutions followed the disasters. Once we control for these political changes, even extremely large disasters do not display any significant effect on economic growth.
Morphological and acoustic characterization of Proceratophrys goyana (Lissamphibia: Anura: Odontophrynidae), with the description of a sympatric and related new species
Authors: MARTINS LUCAS BORGES , GIARETTA ARIOVALDO ANTONIO
Published: December 2013

Proceratophrys goyana was until recently the only species of the genus described from central Brazil. In this paper we characterize the adult morphology and advertisement call of this species, based on data collected at its type-locality (Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás, Brazil). These new data allowed us to recognize a new species of Proceratophrys, sympatric to P. goyana, which is described herein. Proceratophrys goyana is mainly characterized by the male SVL = 38.8–46.5 mm; a well-developed and continuous pair of dorsal sagittal ridges; upper eyelids triangular; developed frontoparietal crests, delimiting a shallow depression between them; overall color pattern browned, with the symmetrical dorsal ridges bordered laterally by dark brown undulations. Proceratophrys rotundipalpebra sp. nov. is characterized by the male SVL = 30.4–39.3 mm; the pair of symmetrical dorsal ridges well-developed anteriorly and somewhat interrupted in the sacral region; upper eyelids short and rounded; frontoparietal crests not well-developed; overall color pattern stained by 3–4 tonalities of gray, without a clear background color. The advertisement calls of both species are emitted in a multi-note pattern, each note pulsed, the first and last notes differing from each other and from those amidst the call in temporal features. The description of this new species is another example of the underestimated diversity of Proceratophrys in the Cerrado of central Brazil.
Ultrastructure and morphometry of eggs of Triatoma rubrovaria (Blanchard, 1843), Triatoma carcavalloi Juberg, Rocha & Lent, 1998 and Triatoma circummaculata (Stål, 1859) (Hemiptera-Reduviidae-Triatominae)
Authors: CARDOZO-DE-ALMEIDA MARGARETH , CASTRO-DE-SOUZA SIMONE , DE OLIVEIRA MARIA LUIZA RIBEIRO , DE ALMEIDA SÉRGIO ANTÔNIO SILVA , GONÇALVES TERESA CRISTINA MONTE , SANTOS-MALLET JACENIR REIS DOS
Published: December 2013

This study analyzed the body and the operculum of eggs of Triatoma rubrovaria, T. carcavalloi and T. circummaculata, considered sylvatic species that live in sympatry.Triatoma rubrovaria is currently considered the most important vector of Trypanosoma cruzi in the rural areas of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, followed by T.circummaculata. Significant differences other than morphometry have been observed in the egg structures of the three species using traditional microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Triatoma circummaculata eggs are smaller than those of T.rubrovaria and T. carcavalloi. The average number of perforations in corionic cells in the egg body is higher for the T. rubrovaria. The average number of perforations in the operculum cell is higher in T. circummaculata. This is the first morpho-structural description of T. carcavalloi eggs. These results widen the concept of these three species and create new subsidies for the entomological monitoring in areas in which these vectors may infest human living quarters.
Two new species of Aaptos (Demospongiae, Hadromerida) from Brazil (western Atlantic)
Authors: CARVALHO MARIANA de S. , Da Silva Suzane M. , PINHEIRO ULISSES
Published: December 2013

Twenty-one species of Aaptos Gray, 1867 are known world-wide, of which only three were reported from Brazil. Two new species of this genus are here described from the Brazilian coast (Potiguar Basin, Northeastern Brazil): A. hajdui sp. nov. and A. potiguarensis sp. nov. Both possess only one category of strongyloxeas and one of styles, although both with wide size variation, suggesting that the diagnosis of the genus should be revised. Previous Brazilian records of A. aaptos have their status re-evaluated here, and only three species of the genus can be considered valid in Brazil: A. glutinans, A. hajdui sp. nov. and A. potiguarensis sp. nov.
Cliona tumula sp. nov., a conspicuous, massive Symbiodinium-bearing clionaid from the lower Florida Keys (USA)(Demospongiae: Hadromerida: Clionaidae)
Authors: FRIDAY SARAH , POPPELL ERICKA , HILL MALCOLM
Published: December 2013

Cliona tumula sp. nov. is described from the Florida Keys, Florida, USA. The new species is compared to representative Cliona spp. from the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific. Cliona tumula sp. nov. is a massive, mound-shaped zooxanthellate clionaid with a central, apical cluster of numerous oscula, slender tylostyles with variable heads and abundant, delicate spirasters with compound spines that can be concentrated at the ends, which in this species can appear as mushroom-like caps, with a skeleton in typical clionaid arrangement. It is distinguished from congeners by its epibenthic growth form that extends for 20–40 cm above the substratum, centrally located concentration of oscula, and calcareous fragments obtained from surrounding sediment that C. tumula sp. nov. incorporates in tracts that run through the choanosome perpendicular to the ectosome. This species can be locally abundant in the Florida Keys in patch reefs near sand flats, but may be restricted to the lower keys as it has not been observed on reefs to the east.
Mechanism of Precipitation Increase with Urbanization in Tokyo as Revealed by Ensemble Climate Simulations
Authors: Kusaka Hiroyuki , Nawata Keiko , Suzuki-Parker Asuka , Takane Yuya , Furuhashi Nana
Published: December 2013

This study examines how urbanization affects the precipitation climatology in Tokyo, Japan. A unique aspect of this study is that an ensemble, regional climatological simulation approach is used with sensitivity experiments to reduce uncertainty arising from nonlinearity in the precipitation simulations. Another aspect is that the robustness of the precipitation response is tested with “stress response” simulations with increasing urban forcing. The results show that urbanization causes a robust increase in the amount of precipitation in the Tokyo metropolitan area and a reduction in the inland areas. These anomalies are statistically significant at the 95% and 99% levels in some parts. There is no measureable change in the surrounding rural and ocean areas. These precipitation responses are attributed to an increase of surface sensible heat flux in Tokyo, which destabilizes the atmosphere and induces an anomalous surface low pressure pattern and the convergence of grid-scale horizontal moisture flux. The anomalous convergence of grid-scale horizontal moisture flux is a consequence of urbanization modifying the sea breeze.
Mesoscale Energy Spectra of the Mei-Yu Front System. Part II: Moist Available Potential Energy Spectra
Authors: Peng Jun , Zhang Lifeng , Luo Yu , Xiong Chunhui
Published: December 2013

In Part II of this study, a new formulation of the spectral energy budget of moist available potential energy (MAPE) and kinetic energy is derived. Compared to previous formulations, there are three main improvements: (i) the Lorenz available potential energy is extended into a general moist atmosphere, (ii) the water vapor and hydrometeors are taken into account, and (iii) it is formulated in a nonhydrostatic framework. Using this formulation, the mesoscale MAPE spectra of the idealized mei-yu front system simulated in Part I are further analyzed.

At the mature stage, the MAPE spectra in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere also show a distinct spectral transition in the mesoscale: they develop an approximately −3 spectral slope for wavelengths longer than 400 km and − spectral slope for shorter wavelengths. In the upper troposphere, mesoscale MAPE is mainly deposited through latent heating and subsequently converted to other forms of energy at the same wavenumber. At wavelengths longer than roughly 400 km, the conversion of MAPE to horizontal kinetic energy (HKE) dominates, while at shorter wavelengths, the mechanical work produced by convective systems primarily adds to the potential energy of moist species and only secondarily generates HKE. However, this secondary conversion is enough to maintain the mesoscale − HKE spectral slope. Another positive contribution comes from the divergence term and the vertical flux. In the lower stratosphere, the main source of mesoscale MAPE is the conversion of HKE, although the vertical flux and the spectral transfer also have notable contributions.
The Lure of a Proposition: The Erotic Nature of the Lord’s Prayer as a Contradiction to Coercive Power
Authors: Brown Michael Joseph
Published: December 2013

The vision of the kingdom of God ( basileia) outlined in Matthew’s version of the Lord’s Prayer is a proposition meant to lure us into greater relationship and more harmonious feeling. The Christian idea that God is love must move beyond simple agapic language and embrace an erotic understanding as well. The desire to be in deeper relationship—the core of erōs—is at the core of the Christian message.
Optimization of machining parameters influencing machinability of Al2124SiCp (45%wt) metal matrix composite
Authors: Muguthu Joseph Njuguna , Dong Gao , Ikua BW
Published: December 2013

Taguchi method is used to find the optimal cutting parameters for turning Al2124/SiCp (45%wt) metal matrix composite using polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PcBN) and polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tools. Experiments were performed with High Precision Lathe Machine Model No: CG6125C. The parameters selected were cutting speed, feed, depth of cut, and tools. The output responses considered for the investigation were surface roughness, tool wear, and specific power consumption. Results show that the optimal combination of parameters giving the best surface finish are at cutting speed of 60 m/min, feed rate of 0.2 mm/rev, depth of cut of 0.10 mm, and PCD tool. The analysis also show that the optimal combination of parameters is at cutting speed of 40 m/min, feed rate of 0.15 mm/rev, depth of cut of 0.20 mm, and PCD tool insert give the lowest specific power. Dominant wear mechanism observed is abrasion wear affecting flank face. Uncoated PcBN had greatest wear followed by coated PcBN and finally PCD tool. Tool insert has a dominant effect on surface roughness having a contribution of 82.04% and followed by cutting speed having a contribution of 4.51%. On specific power consumption tool insert has a dominant effect having a contribution of 65.14% and followed by feed rate with a contribution of 13.57% and interaction ( ap ×  f) with a contribution of 9.92%. It is observed that optimization of the two characteristics for machinability of Al2124SiCp (45%wt) metal matrix composite simultaneously is difficult. On tool wear the results showed that PcBN tools suffered severe wear as compared to PCD tools.
Determination of fracture parameters of FRP composites: A combined experimental and numerical investigation
Authors: Rakshit Dipak , Chakraborty Sushanta
Published: December 2013

Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) composites are used in weight-sensitive aerospace type of applications as well as in infrastructure where durability is of real concern. FRP structures are prone to fracture at interfaces or within the matrix which may not be visible from outside. Thus, a thorough knowledge of initiation and propagation of crack in FRP composites is necessary. The present investigation focuses on a combined experimental and numerical investigation to understand the fracture behavior of FRP properly. The finite element modeling of FRP plate type of specimen is done using ABAQUS to estimate the fracture parameters, such as fracture toughness, fracture energy, etc. The same parameters are also measured experimentally by three-point bending tests as per American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The mode-I fracture behavior seems to be predicted very closely, whereas the observed mode II behavior does not match closely and the reasons for discrepancies are explored.
Developing Student, Family, and School Constructs From NLTS2 Data
Authors: Shogren Karrie A. , Garnier Villarreal Mauricio
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this study was to use data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study–2 (NLTS2) to (a) conceptually identify and empirically establish student, family, and school constructs; (b) explore the degree to which the constructs can be measured equivalently across disability groups; and (c) examine latent differences (means, variances, and correlations) in the constructs across disability groups. Conceptual analysis of NLTS2 individual survey items yielded 21 student, family, and school constructs, and 16 were empirically supported. Partial strong metric invariance was established across disability groups, and in the latent space, a complex pattern of mean and variance differences across disability groups was found. Disability group moderated the correlational relationships between multiple predictor constructs, suggesting the key role of disability-related characteristics in understanding the experiences of youth with disabilities. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Does Tourism Growth Influence Economic Development?
Authors: Cárdenas-García Pablo Juan , Sánchez-Rivero Marcelino , Pulido-Fernández Juan Ignacio
Published: December 2013

Having recognized the importance of tourism to economic growth, most international organizations have begun to argue that tourism growth can influence, as well, the economic and sociocultural development of society. However, recently, a new approach that criticizes the relationship between both dimensions has begun to be developed; suggesting that this is not an automatic relationship.

In this context, the aim of this study is to determine whether the economic growth experienced in some countries as a result of the expansion of the tourism activity over the last two decades influences an increase in the level of economic development. To that end, a sample of 144 countries has been used, which verifies that this relationship occurs, especially in more developed countries, which calls into question the conception of tourism as a driving force of economic development for the least developed countries, and even in developing countries.
Which Risk Factors are Really Predictive?
Authors: Grieger Lena , Hosser Daniela
Published: December 2013

In this study, we examined the (incremental) predictive validity of Andrews and Bonta’s Central Eight risk factors for recidivism in the German youth correctional system. The sample consisted of N = 589 male youth inmates who were incarcerated for the first time. Recidivism during the 78 months’ follow-up was assessed using official data. The Central Eight risk factors predicted recidivism in survival analyses. In a cross-validation, composite scores predicted general (area under curve [AUC] = .65) and violent recidivism (AUC = .66). The Moderate Four risk factors (family, school, leisure/recreation, substance abuse) showed predictive validity incremental to the Big Four risk factors (history of antisocial behavior, antisocial personality pattern, antisocial cognition, antisocial associates). School was the most predictive single risk factor. The results provide evidence for the applicability of the Central Eight as predictors for recidivism in the German youth correctional system. Furthermore, the study adds to the debate on the importance of dynamic risk factors.
Mechanical, thermal and dielectric properties of aluminum nitride/epoxy resin composites
Authors: Zhang Jian , Qi Shuhua
Published: December 2013

Aluminum nitride (AlN) microparticles treated by silane coupling reagent of γ-glycidoxy propyl trimethoxy silane (KH-560) are employed to fabricate AlN/epoxy (AlN/EP) composites. Initially, both the flexural and impact strength of the AlN/EP composites increased, but later decreased with excessive addition of AlN. The mechanical properties of the composites are optimal with 5 wt% AlN. The thermal decomposition temperature and the dielectric constant of the composites increased with the addition of AlN. The thermal conductivities of the AlN/EP composites improved with the increasing addition of AlN, and the thermal conductive coefficient is 0.98 W/mK with 70 wt%-treated AlN. For a fixed AlN loading, the surface treatment of AlN by KH-560 exhibits a positive effect on the thermal conductivities and mechanical properties of the composites.
Virando o jogo
Authors: Gaffney Christopher
Published: December 2013

The progressive commercialization of football in Brazil has been accompanied by the emergence of social movements that seek increased visibility and power over decision-making processes in the sport industrial complex. These groups are responding to rapid changes in the political economy of Brazilian sport, particularly football. While many of these processes were well underway before FIFA selected Brazil to host the 2014 World Cup in 2007, the event preparations are accelerating the trends toward corporatization, privatization, and mercantilization of football culture. In the years leading up to the 2014 World Cup, social movements have formed to respond to these changes in the political economy of football. This article will analyze the emergence and decline of the National Fans’ Association (Associação Nacional dos Torcedores, ANT) as an attempt from Brazilian civil society to insert more progressive social agendas into the rapidly neo-liberalizing framework of Brazilian sport. I contextualize this movement with the larger frames of fandom and fans’ rights, the role of activist academics within social movements more generally, and explore the successes and failures of the ANT. The conclusion suggests that even short-lived experiments in the formation of social movements are worthwhile as they can take future shapes and directions that can eventually bring about the desired change.
Self-Management as a Mediator of Family Functioning and Depressive Symptoms With Health Outcomes in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Whittemore Robin , Liberti Lauren , Jeon Sangchoon , Chao Ariana , Jaser Sarah S. , Grey Margaret
Published: December 2013

This study examined the relationship of family functioning and depressive symptoms with self-management, glycemic control, and quality of life in a sample of adolescents with type 1 diabetes. It also explored whether self-management mediates family functioning, depressive symptoms, and diabetes-related outcomes. Structural equation modeling was used to estimate parameters in the conceptual causal pathway and test mediation effects. Adolescents ( n = 320) were primarily female (55%), younger adolescents (58%), and self-identified as White (63%). Self-management mediated the relationship between family conflict, family warmth-caring, parent guidance-control, and youth depressive symptoms with glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C). In addition, self-management mediated the relationship between family conflict and youth depressive symptoms with quality of life. Supporting optimal family functioning and treating elevated depressive symptoms in adolescents with type 1 diabetes has the potential to improve self-management, glycemic control, and quality of life.
Regional Differences in Gender Promotion and Scholarly Productivity in Otolaryngology
Authors: Eloy Jean Anderson , Mady Leila J. , Svider Peter F. , Mauro Kevin M. , Kalyoussef Evelyne , Setzen Michael , Baredes Soly , Chandrasekhar Sujana S.
Published: December 2013

Objectives

To identify whether regional differences exist in gender disparities in scholarly productivity and faculty rank among academic otolaryngologists.

Study Design and Setting

Academic otolaryngologists’ bibliometric data analyses.

Methods

Online faculty listings from 98 otolaryngology departments were organized by gender, academic rank, fellowship training status, and institutional location. The Scopus database was used to assess bibliometrics of these otolaryngologists, including the h‐index, number of publications, and publication experience.

Results

Analysis included 1127 otolaryngologists, 916 men (81.3%) and 211 women (18.7%). Female faculty comprised 15.4% in the Midwest, 18.8% in the Northeast, 21.3% in the South, and 19.0% in the West (P =. 44). Overall, men obtained significantly higher senior academic ranks (associate professor or professor) compared to women (59.8% vs 40.2%, P <. 0001). Regional gender differences in senior faculty were found in the South (59.8% men vs 37.3% women, P =. 0003) and Northeast (56.4% men vs 24.1% women, P <. 0001) with concomitant gender differences in scholarly impact, as measured by the h‐index (South, P =. 0003; Northeast, P =. 0001). Among geographic subdivisions, female representation at senior ranks was lowest in the Mid‐Atlantic (22.0%), New England (30.8%), and West South Central (33.3%), while highest in Pacific (60.0%) and Mountain (71.4%) regions. No regional gender differences were found in fellowship training patterns (P‐values >. 05).

Conclusion

Gender disparities in academic rank and scholarly productivity exist most notably in the Northeast, where women in otolaryngology are most underrepresented relative to men at senior academic ranks and in scholarly productivity.