bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative glucose level has different effects on the endogenous extracellular matrix–related gene expression in saphenous vein of type 2 diabetic patients undergoing coronary surgery
Authors: Sun Yongxin , Lin Zibo , Ding Wenjun , Wei Qiang , Shi Yunqing , Wang Chunsheng
Published: April 2014

Background:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) severely reduces the benefits of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However, few studies investigated the correlation between preoperative glucose level and endogenous extracellular matrix (ECM)-related gene expression of saphenous vein (SV) conduits in diabetic patients.

Methods:

A total of 130 patients were divided into high-glucose (HG), low-glucose (LG) and control group according to the preoperative level of blood glucose. The expression of ECM-related genes was analysed by microarray.

Results:

Compared with control group, 30 genes showed at least a threefold change in expression in HG group; up-regulation was observed in 24 genes. However, there were only 21 ECM-related genes showed at least a threefold change in expression between the LG and control group. Compared with HG group, matrix metalloproteinases’ (MMPs) expression was significantly decreased in LG and control groups. In contrast to the decrease in MMPs’ expression, expression of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) was increased.

Conclusion:

This study suggested that different preoperative diabetic status affected the expression of ECM-related genes in SV. ECM-related genes were more significantly imbalanced in diabetic patients with uncontrolled preoperative blood glucose than those with well-controlled preoperative blood glucose.
Guys and Gals Going for Gold
Authors: Lowen Aaron , Deaner Robert O. , Schmitt Erika
Published: April 2014

We test the hypothesis that women’s empowerment correlates with women’s international athletic success. Greater gender equality (measured using the Gender Inequality Index) is associated with higher participation and medal counts in the Summer Olympic Games from 1996 through 2012. This relationship persists even after controlling for previously identified nation-level predictors of Olympic success and across alternative measures of success (such as shares of the total, percentage within each country, and medals per athlete). These results provide direct evidence for the long-standing claim that girls’ and women’s international athletic achievement is linked to women’s empowerment.
Latino Associate Degree Completion
Authors: Gross Jacob P. K. , Zerquera Desiree , Inge Brittany , Berry Matthew
Published: April 2014

Lack of financial resources to pay for postsecondary education—perceived and actual—has been cited as a barrier to student access and persistence, particularly for Latino students. This study investigates the following question: “To what extent does financial aid affect the educational attainment of Latinos enrolled in Associate’s degree programs, and how do these effects change over time?” We find receiving aid of any type was positively associated with degree completion, though the effect declined over time.
Defining Young in the Context of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Chambers Suzanne K. , Lowe Anthony , Hyde Melissa K. , Zajdlewicz Leah , Gardiner Robert A. , Sandoe David , Dunn Jeff
Published: April 2014

The experience of prostate cancer is for most men a major life stress with the psychological burden of this disease falling more heavily on those who are younger. Despite this, being young as it applies to prostate cancer is not yet clearly defined with varied chronological approaches applied. However, men’s responses to health crises are closely bound to life course and masculinities from which social roles emerge. This paper applied qualitative methodology (structured focus groups and semistructured interviews with expert informants) using interpretative phenomenological analysis to define what it means to be young and have prostate cancer. Structured focus groups were held with 26 consumer advisors (men diagnosed with prostate cancer who provide support to other men with prostate cancer or raise community awareness) and health professionals. As well, 15 men diagnosed with prostate cancer and in their 40s, 50s, or 60s participated in semi-structured interviews. Participants discussed the attributes that describe a young man with prostate cancer and the experience of being young and diagnosed with prostate cancer. Chronological definitions of a young man were absent or inconsistent. Masculine constructions of what it means to be a young man and life course characteristics appear more relevant to defining young as it applies to prostate cancer compared with chronological age. These findings have implications for better understanding the morbidities associated with this illness, and in designing interventions that are oriented to life course and helping young men reconstruct their identities after prostate cancer.
Simulation of biomimetic traveling-wave micro-pump using a modified immersed boundary–lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Feifei Liu , Shoushui Wei , Shaowei Wang , Changzhi Wei , Xiaofei Ren
Published: April 2014

A biomimetic micro-pump model was constructed in this study based on the hydrodynamics of flagellated bacteria traveling-wave movement in a viscous fluid environment. In order to avoid the complicated force calculation, immersed boundary was introduced into lattice Boltzmann equation as velocity source. This method modified the traditional immersed boundary–lattice Boltzmann method in which immersed boundary was treated as force source. The present modified immersed boundary–lattice Boltzmann method was applied for solving the model, which can improve the computational efficiency and accuracy. The effect of the traveling field produced by the elastomer on the fluid flow was then probed. Numerical-simulation experiments were carried out to discuss the influences of traveling-wave deformations on the pressure distribution and velocity field and also to find out the effects of frequency, amplitude, elastomer’s length, wavelength, the thickness of the elastomer, and kinematic viscosity of the fluid on the flow rate.
The Role of Demineralized Allograft Subchondral Bone in the Treatment of Talar Cystic OCD Lesions That Have Failed Microfracture
Authors: Brigido Stephen A. , Protzman Nicole M. , Galli Melissa M. , Bleazey Scott T.
Published: April 2014

Cystic talar shoulder defects are particularly challenging osteochondral lesions. A retrospective chart review was performed on 13 adults that previously failed microfracture, presented with medial cystic osteochondral lesions of the talus, and were treated with malleolar osteotomy and subchondral allograft reconstruction. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of a medial malleolar osteotomy and allograft subchondral bone plug on pain and function. We hypothesized that following surgery, pain and function would significantly improve. Compared with preoperative measures, pain (first step in the morning, during walking, at the end of the day) and function (descending the stairs, ascending the stairs, and ambulating up to 4 blocks) improved postoperatively at 6 and 12 months ( P ≤ .001). During each activity, pain improved postoperatively from 6 to 12 months ( P ≤ .006). Postoperatively, from 6 to 12 months, the level of disability improved while descending the stairs ( P = .004), and the level of disability experienced while ascending the stairs and ambulating up to 4 blocks was maintained ( P ≥ .02). Multiple regression analyses identified body mass index as a predictor of preoperative function ( R2 = .34, P = .04). No variables were identified as significant predictors of postoperative pain or function. With all osteotomies healing, no graft rejection, and a single deep venous thrombosis, allograft subchondral plugs appear to successfully treat osteochondral lesions of the talus with improvements in pain and function as well as an acceptable complication rate.

Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Retrospective Case Series.
The evolving role of FLT3 inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia: quizartinib and beyond
Authors: Wander Seth A. , Levis Mark J. , Fathi Amir T.
Published: April 2014

Acute myeloid leukemia remains associated with poor outcomes despite advances in our understanding of the complicated molecular events driving leukemogenesis and malignant progression. Those patients harboring mutations in the FLT3 receptor tyrosine kinase have a particularly poor prognosis; however, significant excitement has been generated by the emergence of a variety of targeted inhibitors capable of suppressing FLT3 signaling in vivo. Here we will review results from preclinical studies and early clinical trials evaluating both first- and second-generation FLT3 inhibitors. Early FLT3 inhibitors (including sunitinib, midostaurin, and lestaurtinib) demonstrated significant promise in preclinical models of FLT3 mutant AML. Unfortunately, many of these compounds failed to achieve robust and sustained FLT3 inhibition in early clinical trials, at best resulting in only transient decreases in peripheral blast counts. These results have prompted the development of second-generation FLT3 inhibitors, epitomized by the novel agent quizartinib. These second-generation inhibitors have demonstrated enhanced FLT3 specificity and have been generally well tolerated in early clinical trials. Several FLT3 inhibitors have reached phase III clinical trials, and a variety of phase I/II trials exploring a role for these novel compounds in conjunction with conventional chemotherapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation are ongoing. Finally, molecular insights provided by FLT3 inhibitors have shed light upon the variety of mechanisms underlying the acquisition of resistance and have provided a rationale supporting the use of combinatorial regimens with other emerging targeted therapies.
Effects of recent Virginia AIDS Drug Assistance Program policy changes on diabetes and hyperlipidemia control in people living with HIV
Authors: McManus Kathleen A , Pinkerton Relana , Dillingham Rebecca
Published: April 2014

Objectives:

To describe the impacts of Virginia AIDS Drug Assistance Program’s elimination of diabetes and hyperlipidemia medication on disease outcomes in people living with HIV.

Methods:

Data were collected on two groups of people living with HIV who were prescribed medications for diabetes and/or hyperlipidemia; one group received medications from AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) and the other group received medications from another source. Data were collected for 13 months before and after the policy change. Diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and HIV control were compared using standard laboratory measures.

Results:

During the pre-policy-change time period, non-ADAP patients had better diabetes control than ADAP patients, but with multivariate analysis, ADAP status was no longer a statistically significant predictor. Otherwise, no significant differences between groups were identified.

Discussion:

ADAP patients had worse diabetes control compared to the non-ADAP group before the policy change. It is possible that this is due to the AIDS Drug Assistance Program population’s poor access to non-HIV primary care, including care for diabetes. It is reassuring that, even during a time of flux in AIDS Drug Assistance Program resources, the AIDS Drug Assistance Program patients’ co-morbid and HIV outcomes were not negatively impacted.
The Impact of Budget Cutbacks on Music Teaching Positions and District Funding in Three Midwestern States
Authors: Burrack Frederick William , Payne Phillip , Bazan Dale E. , Hellman Daniel S.
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate the existence and impact of budgetary cutbacks to music teaching positions and district funding in three Midwestern states, namely Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri. The results revealed cuts to staffing and district funding of music programs without a reduction in student enrollments in 2011–2012 following a downward trend the previous 3 to 4 years. Increases in teaching responsibilities and student fees were also trends. Based on collected data, staffing and budgetary reductions will continue to increase teacher workloads. Recommendations are provided for music education advocates, music teacher education programs, and state music education organizations to adapt to changing fiscal realities and needs of schools.
RhoA determines disease progression by controlling neutrophil motility and restricting hyperresponsiveness
Authors: Jennings Richard T. , Strengert Monika , Hayes Patti , El-Benna Jamel , Brakebusch Cord , Kubica Malgorzata , Knaus Ulla G.
Published: April 2014

Key Points

Rho-deficient neutrophils are hyperresponsive. RhoA acts predominantly as a negative regulator of chemotaxis.
Phospho-kinase profile of triple negative breast cancer and androgen receptor signaling
Authors: Cuenca-López María D , Montero Juan C , Morales Jorge C , Prat Aleix , Pandiella Atanasio , Ocana Alberto
Published: April 2014

Background

The androgen receptor (AR) plays a central role in the oncogenesis of different tumors, as is the case in prostate cancer. In triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) a gene expression classification has described different subgroups including a luminal androgen subtype. The AR can be controlled by several mechanisms like the activation of membrane tyrosine kinases and downstream signaling pathways. However little is known in TNBC about how the AR is modulated by these mechanisms and the potential therapeutic strategists to inhibit its expression.

Methods

We used human samples to evaluate the expression of AR by western-blot and phospho-proteomic kinase arrays that recognize membrane tyrosine kinase receptors and downstream mediators. Western-blots in human cell lines were carried out to analyze the expression and activation of individual proteins. Drugs against these kinases in different conditions were used to measure the expression of the androgen receptor. PCR experiments were performed to assess changes in the AR gene after therapeutic modulation of these pathways.

Results

AR is present in a subset of TNBC and its expression correlates with activated membrane receptor kinases-EGFR and PDGFRβ in human samples and cell lines. Inhibition of the PI3K/mTOR pathway in TNBC cell lines decreased notably the expression of the AR. Concomitant administration of the anti-androgen bicalutamide with the EGFR, PDGFRβ and Erk1/2 inhibitors, decreased the amount of AR compared to each agent given alone, and had an additive anti-proliferative effect. Administration of dihydrotestosterone augmented the expression of AR that was not modified by the inhibition of the PI3K/mTOR or Erk1/2 pathways. AR expression was posttranscriptionally regulated by PI3K or Erk1/2 inhibition.

Conclusion

Our results describe the expression of the AR in TNBC as a druggable target and further suggest the combination of bicalutamide with inhibitors of EGFR, PDGFRβ or Erk1/2 for future development.
Determinants of exercise capacity in cystic fibrosis patients with mild-to-moderate lung disease
Authors: Pastré Jean , Prévotat Anne , Tardif Catherine , Langlois Carole , Duhamel Alain , Wallaert Benoit
Published: April 2014

Background

Adult patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) frequently have reduced exercise tolerance, which is multifactorial but mainly due to bronchial obstruction. The aim of this retrospective analysis was to determine the mechanisms responsible for exercise intolerance in patients with mild-to-moderate or severe disease.

Methods

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing with blood gas analysis at peak exercise was performed in 102 patients aged 28 ± 11 years: 48 patients had severe lung disease (FEV1 < 50%, group 1) and 54 had mild-to-moderate lung disease (FEV1 ≥ 50%, group 2). VO2 peak was measured and correlated with clinical, biological, and functional parameters.

Results

VO2 peak for all patients was 25 ± 9 mL/kg/min (65 ± 21% of the predicted value) and was < 84% of predicted in 82% of patients (100% of group 1, 65% of group 2). VO2 peak was correlated with body mass index, C-reactive protein, FEV1, FVC, RV, DLCO, VE/VCO2 peak, VD/VT, PaO2, PaCO2, P(A-a)O2, and breathing reserve. In multivariate analysis, FEV1 and overall hyperventilation during exercise were independent determinants of exercise capacity (R2 = 0.67). FEV1 was the major significant predictor of VO2 peak impairment in group 1, accounting for 31% of VO2 peak alteration, whereas excessive overall hyperventilation (reduced or absent breathing reserve and VE/VCO2) accounted for 41% of VO2 alteration in group 2.

Conclusion

Exercise limitation in adult patients with CF is largely dependent on FEV1 in patients with severe lung disease and on the magnitude of the ventilatory response to exercise in patients with mild-to-moderate lung disease.
Terminalia catappa attenuates urokinase-type plasminogen activator expression through Erk pathways in Hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yeh Chao-Bin , Yu Yung-Luen , Lin Chiao-Wen , Chiou Hui-Ling , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: April 2014

Background

The survival rate of malignant tumors, and especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has not improved primarily because of uncontrolled metastasis. In our previous studies, we have reported thatTerminalia catappaleaf extract (TCE) exerts antimetastasis effects on HCC cells. However, the molecular mechanisms of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (u-PA) in HCC metastasis have not been thoroughly investigated, and remain poorly understood.

Methods

The activities and protein levels of u-PA were determined by casein zymography and western blotting. Transcriptional levels of u-PA were detected by real-time PCR and promoter assays.

Results

We found that treatment of Huh7 cells with TCE significantly reduced the activities, protein levels and mRNA levels of u-PA. A chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay showed that TCE inhibited the transcription protein of nuclear factors SP-1 and NF-κB. TCE also did inhibit the effects of u-PA by reducing the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 pathway.

Conclusions

These results show that u-PA expression may be a potent therapeutic target in the TCE-mediated suppression of HCC metastasis.
The potentials of and barriers to the utilization of advanced computer systems in remote construction projects: case of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Sidawi Bhzad , Alsudairi Abdulsalam
Published: April 2014

Background

An extensive body of knowledge indicated the positive impact of the Advanced Computer based Management Systems (ACMS) on various aspects of project management, while highlighting barriers that hinder adoption, diffusion, and utilization of the ACMS by the construction industries around the world. Remote projects have their unique management problems and these are caused mainly by the remoteness of the project. Little research was undertaken concerning this issue, particularly in the Persian Gulf region, and it has highlighted few unique communications and management problems such as the loose control, lack of human resources, infrastructure and experience.

Methods

This research investigated the use of ACMS by large companies in the Eastern province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and how it would help these companies sorting out a number of present projects’ management problems. Subsequently, a field study i.e. a questionnaire survey and interviews was carried out.

Result

The field study revealed significant association between frequent management problems with little use of ACMS and the domination of use of traditional communications and management systems. This paper argues that the use of traditional systems and the traditional way of sorting out construction problems limit the applicability of ACMS.

Conclusion

The present researchers recommend the use of customized ACMS associated with the application of lean and sustainable management principals as these would help overcoming barriers and providing intelligent solution for the strategic, technical, and social issues of the remote construction sites.
Maternal exposure to diethylstilbestrol during pregnancy and increased breast cancer risk in daughters
Authors: Hilakivi-Clarke Leena
Published: April 2014

The idea that susceptibility to breast cancer is determined not only through inherited germline mutations but also by epigenetic changes induced by alterations in hormonal environment during fetal development is gaining increasing support. Using findings obtained in human and animal studies, this review addresses the mechanisms that may explain why daughters of mothers who took synthetic estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy have two times higher breast cancer risk than women who were not exposed to it. The mechanisms likely involve epigenetic alterations, such as increased DNA methylation and modifications in histones and microRNA expression. Further, these alterations may target genes that regulate stem cells and prevent differentiation of their daughter cells. Recent findings in a preclinical model suggest that not only are women exposed to DES in utero at an increased risk of developing breast cancer, but this risk may extend to their daughters and granddaughters as well. It is critical, therefore, to determine if the increased risk is driven by epigenetic alterations in genes that increase susceptibility to breast cancer and if these alterations are reversible.
Coefficient of glucose variation is independently associated with mortality in critically ill patients receiving intravenous insulin
Authors: Lanspa Michael J , Dickerson Justin , Morris Alan H , Orme James F , Holmen John , Hirshberg Eliotte L
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Both patient- and context-specific factors may explain the conflicting evidence regarding glucose control in critically ill patients. Blood glucose variability appears to correlate with mortality, but this variability may be an indicator of disease severity, rather than an independent predictor of mortality. We assessed blood glucose coefficient of variation as an independent predictor of mortality in the critically ill.

Methods

We used eProtocol-Insulin, an electronic protocol for managing intravenous insulin with explicit rules, high clinician compliance, and reproducibility. We studied critically ill patients from eight hospitals, excluding patients with diabetic ketoacidosis and patients supported with eProtocol-insulin for < 24 hours or with < 10 glucose measurements. Our primary clinical outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality. We performed multivariable logistic regression, with covariates of age, gender, glucose coefficient of variation (standard deviation/mean), Charlson comorbidity score, acute physiology score, presence of diabetes, and occurrence of hypoglycemia < 60 mg/dL.

Results

We studied 6101 critically ill adults. Coefficient of variation was independently associated with 30-day mortality (odds ratio 1.23 for every 10% increase, P < 0.001), even after adjustment for hypoglycemia, age, disease severity, and comorbidities. The association was higher in non-diabetics (OR = 1.37, P < 0.001) than in diabetics (OR 1.15, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Blood glucose variability is associated with mortality and is independent of hypoglycemia, disease severity, and comorbidities. Future studies should evaluate blood glucose variability.
Repression of chimeric transcripts emanating from endogenous retrotransposons by a sequence-specific transcription factor
Authors: Mak Ka Sin , Burdach Jon , Norton Laura J , Pearson Richard CM , Crossley Merlin , Funnell Alister PW
Published: April 2014

Background

Retroviral elements are pervasively transcribed and dynamically regulated during development. While multiple histone- and DNA-modifying enzymes have broadly been associated with their global silencing, little is known about how the many diverse retroviral families are each selectively recognized.

Results

Here we show that the zinc finger protein Krüppel-like Factor 3 (KLF3) specifically silences transcription from the ORR1A0 long terminal repeat in murine fetal and adult erythroid cells. In the absence of KLF3, we detect widespread transcription from ORR1A0 elements driven by the master erythroid regulator KLF1. In several instances these aberrant transcripts are spliced to downstream genic exons. One such chimeric transcript produces a novel, dominant negative isoform of PU.1 that can induce erythroid differentiation.

Conclusions

We propose that KLF3 ensures the integrity of the murine erythroid transcriptome through the selective repression of a particular retroelement and is likely one of multiple sequence-specific factors that cooperate to achieve global silencing.
Phagocytosis of apoptotic or necrotic cells differentially regulates the transcriptional expression of IL-12 family members in dendritic cells
Authors: Dixon Karen O , O'Flynn Joseph , van der Kooij Sandra W , van Kooten Cees
Published: April 2014

Uptake of apoptotic cells by DCs is considered to contribute to induction and maintenance of immunological tolerance. TolDCs are sought after as cellular therapy in transplantation and autoimmunity and can be generated in vitro using GCs. In this study, we investigated how uptake of dead cells affects the production and expression of different members of the IL-12 family by immature DCs or TolDCs. We show that compared to regular immature DCs, TolDCs display elevated levels of PS-recognizing bridge molecule receptors αvβ5 and CD36, and have enhanced phagocytic abilities with accelerated uptake of apoptotic cells. We confirm that apoptotic cell uptake results in diminished production of IL-12p40 and IL-12p70 by DCs. We now show that this also results in increased expression of IL-12p35 and Ebi3. TolDCs completely lack expression of IL-12p40 yet have enhanced levels of Ebi3 and IL-12p35. Uptake by TolDCs of apoptotic or necrotic cells does not affect the expression of Ebi3/IL-12p35 and also does not increase IL-12p40. This is distinct from the culture of immature DCs with necrotic cells, which is sufficient to induce IL-12p40 secretion. Conversely, ingestion of apoptotic cells by DCs leads to increased expression of IL-12p35 and Ebi3 without affecting IL-12p40. In conclusion, we have shown that uptake of apoptotic versus necrotic cells by DCs differentially regulates members of the IL-12 family. Apoptotic cells favor expression of Ebi3 and IL-12p35, and we propose that differential regulation of the IL-12 family is an additional mechanism in determining the immune response to dying cells.
Measuring Water Holding Capacity—A Comparison between a Miniature near Infrared System and an Energy Dispersive X-Ray Scattering System
Authors: O'Farrell Marion , Bouquet Gregory , Tschudi Jon , Bakke Kari Anne Hestnes , Egelandsal Bjørg , Lunde Kathrine
Published: April 2014

The results presented here describe a comparative study on pork loins with drip loss varying from 0.25% w/w to 10.69% w/w. Thirty samples were measured using both near infrared (NIR) interactance and X-ray scattering. Partial least squares regression was used to build calibration models for each method. Results show that the correlation for the calibration model between NIR interactance and drip loss was R2 = 0.47 (leaving out three outliers) while that for X-ray and drip loss was R2 = 0.72 (leaving out three outliers).
The Differential Effects of Bilateral Tax Treaties
Authors: Blonigen Bruce A. , Oldenski Lindsay , Sly Nicholas
Published: April 2014

Bilateral tax treaties (BTTs) are intended to promote foreign direct investment through double-taxation relief. Using BEA firm-level data, we find a positive effect of BTTs on FDI, which is larger for firms that use differentiated inputs. BTTs allow multinational firms to request assistance from treaty partners' governments if they have a grievance about how tax liabilities are determined. These provisions disproportionately benefit firms that use inputs for which an arm's-length price is difficult to observe, since allocation of earnings across countries is more complex. We find differential BTT effects for both sales by existing affiliates and entry of new affiliates. (JEL F23, H25, H87)
Health and the Political Agency of Women
Authors: Bhalotra Sonia , Clots-Figueras Irma
Published: April 2014

We investigate whether women's political representation in state legislatures improves public provision of antenatal and childhood health services in the districts from which they are elected, arguing that the costs of poor services in this domain fall disproportionately upon women. Using large representative data samples from India and accounting for potential endogeneity of politician gender and the sample composition of births, we find that a 10 percentage point increase in women's representation results in a 2.1 percentage point reduction in neonatal mortality, and we elucidate mechanisms. Women's political representation may be an underutilized tool for addressing health in developing countries. (JEL D72, I12, I15, J16, O15, O17)
The Elasticity of Corporate Taxable Income: New Evidence from UK Tax Records
Authors: Devereux Michael P. , Liu Li , Loretz Simon
Published: April 2014

We estimate the elasticity of corporate taxable income with respect to the statutory corporation tax rate using the population of UK corporation tax returns. We analyze bunching in the distribution of taxable income at kinks in the marginal rate schedule. We decompose this elasticity into an elasticity of total income with respect to the corporation tax rate, and an elasticity of the share of income taken as profit with respect to the difference between the personal and corporate tax rates. This implies a marginal deadweight cost at the £10,000 kink of around 29 percent of tax revenue. (JEL G32, H24, H25, L25)
Corporate Taxes and Internal Borrowing within Multinational Firms
Authors: Egger Peter , Keuschnigg Christian , Merlo Valeria , Wamser Georg
Published: April 2014

This study develops a theoretical model of a multinational firm with an internal capital market. Hypotheses regarding the role of local versus foreign characteristics such as profit tax rates, lack of institutional quality, financial underdevelopment, and productivity for internal debt financing at the level of foreign affiliates are derived and assessed empirically in a panel dataset covering the universe of German multinationals. We show that differences in nontax incentives given by fundamentals in local and foreign markets can offset or reinforce tax incentives. The results point at a many times higher tax-sensitivity of internal debt financing compared to previous research. (JEL F23, G32, H25)
Preface
Authors: Kikas Eve , Toomela Aaro
Published: April 2014

Eesti Haridusteaduste Ajakirja teises erinumbris käsitletakse arengut ja õppimist laias vanusevahemikus alates esimese klassi õpilastest ja lõpetades õpetajakoolituse üliõpilastega. Uurimise all on õpetajate uskumused ja tegevused ning õpilaste arenguvaldkonnad. Tööde teoreetilise aluse moodustab sotsiaalkultuuriline käsitlusviis, mille kohaselt eeldatakse, et areng ja õppimine on komplekssed – erinevate arenguvaldkondade näitajad mõjutavad üksteist vastastikku, olles omakorda seotud keskkonnanäitajatega. Uurimused on pikilõikelised, analüüsitud on nii õpilase kui ka õpetajaga seotud näitajaid, peale variaablikesksete analüüside on kasutatud ka indiviidikeskseid analüüsimeetodeid. Uurimused peegeldavad Eesti kooli ja ülikooli hetkeolukorda ning loodetavasti ärgitavad lugejaid mõtlema, mida ja kuidas edasi uurida, samuti annavad ideid, mida õpetamisel kasutada.
Conservatives, partisan dynamics and the politics of universality: reforming universal social programmes in the UK and Canada
Authors: Béland Daniel , Waddan Alex
Published: April 2014

This article explores the politics of universal family, health and pension programmes in the UK and Canada during recent periods of conservative rule. The analysis provides grounds for exploring partisan dynamics while testing what happened when the principle of universality clashed with fiscal and political pressures to restructure the welfare state. As suggested, in both countries, universality has remained stronger in the field of healthcare than in the one of cash benefits, a trend related to the wide popularity of universal healthcare, which explains why conservatives have been extra careful when dealing with this policy area closely tied to citizenship.
Análise da viabilidade econômica do policultivo de Carpas, Jundiás e Tilápias-do-Nilo como uma alternativa de modelo de cultivo de peixes para pequenas propriedades
Authors: Ritter Filipe , Pandolfo Adalberto , Barcellos Leonardo José Gil , Mezzalira Quevedo Rosmari , Dos Santos Ritter Vanessa Rita , Pimentel Gomes Aline , Marcondes Pandolfo Luciana
Published: April 2014

With a growing world population and increasing demand for quality food in sufficient quantities, aquaculture fits in this context as active producer of high quality animal protein in large quantities by field use. The production of fish in farm ponds and has practiced for over five decades in Rio Grande do Sul, and the system is commonly used in carp polyculture, which consists of intercropping different species of carp to improve the performance of each one and therefore achieve greater productivity. But the carp polyculture currently used has a low technological level, the production obtained is considered small. Studies have been performed by adding the silver catfish, the traditional polyculture, thus obtaining good results. Some studies were performed on economic viability, but with a single species, or consortium, as is the case of polyculture of shrimp and Nile tilapia. This study tested the polyculture with partial subtituição 25%, 50% and 75% of silver catfish and carp by Nile tilapia. The economic viability of all polycultures studied were analyzed under the condition of certainty by obtaining the Net Present Value (NPV), Annual Value (AV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR) and Payback. It was concluded that replacing 25% of silver catfish and carp by Nile tilapia has higher biomass production and that an investment in polyculture with vita useful 25 years is economically feasible for a fee Minimum Attractiveness (TMA) of 6.17%.
Place the Logo High or Low? Using Conceptual Metaphors of Power in Packaging Design
Authors: Sundar Aparna , Noseworthy Theodore J.
Published: April 2014

Across three studies, this research examines how marketers can capitalize on their brand's standing in the marketplace through strategic logo placement on their packaging. Using a conceptual metaphor framework, the authors find that consumers prefer powerful brands more when the brand logo is featured high rather than low on the brand's packaging, whereas they prefer less powerful brands more when the brand logo is featured low rather than high on the brand's packaging. Furthermore, the authors confirm that the underlying mechanism for this shift in preference is a fluency effect derived from consumers intuitively linking the concept of power with height. Given this finding, the authors then demonstrate an important boundary condition by varying a person's state of power to be at odds with the metaphoric link. The results demonstrate when and how marketers can capitalize on consumers’ latent associations through package design.
Driving Online and Offline Sales: The Cross-Channel Effects of Traditional, Online Display, and Paid Search Advertising
Authors: Dinner Isaac M. , Heerde Van Harald J. , Neslin Scott A.
Published: April 2014

The current marketing environment is characterized by a surge in multichannel shopping and increasing choice of advertising channels. This situation requires firms to understand how advertising in one channel (e.g., online) influences sales in another channel (e.g., offline). This article studies the presence, magnitude, and carryover of these cross-channel effects for online advertising (display and search) and traditional media. The analysis considers how these advertising expenditures translate directly into sales, as well as indirectly through intermediate search advertising metrics—namely, impressions and click-through rate. For a high-end clothing and apparel retailer, the authors find that cross effects exist and are important and that cross-effect elasticities are almost as high as own-effect elasticities. Online display and, in particular, search advertising is more effective than traditional advertising. This result is primarily due to strong cross effects on the offline channel. Return-on-investment calculations suggest that by ignoring these cross effects, firms substantially miscalculate the effectiveness of online advertising. Notably, the authors find that traditional advertising decreases paid search click-through rates, thus reducing the net cross effect of traditional advertising.
Centrin 2 Is Required for Mouse Olfactory Ciliary Trafficking and Development of Ependymal Cilia Planar Polarity
Authors: Ying Guoxin , Avasthi Prachee , Irwin Mavis , Gerstner Cecilia D. , Frederick Jeanne M. , Lucero Mary T. , Baehr Wolfgang
Published: April 2014

Centrins are ancient calmodulin-related Ca2+-binding proteins associated with basal bodies. In lower eukaryotes, Centrin2 (CETN2) is required for basal body replication and positioning, although its function in mammals is undefined. We generated a germline CETN2 knock-out (KO) mouse presenting with syndromic ciliopathy including dysosmia and hydrocephalus. Absence of CETN2 leads to olfactory cilia loss, impaired ciliary trafficking of olfactory signaling proteins, adenylate cyclase III (ACIII), and cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channel, as well as disrupted basal body apical migration in postnatal olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). In mutant OSNs, cilia base-anchoring of intraflagellar transport components IFT88, the kinesin-II subunit KIF3A, and cytoplasmic dynein 2 appeared compromised. Although the densities of mutant ependymal and respiratory cilia were largely normal, the planar polarity of mutant ependymal cilia was disrupted, resulting in uncoordinated flow of CSF. Transgenic expression of GFP-CETN2 rescued theCetn2-deficiency phenotype. These results indicate that mammalian basal body replication and ciliogenesis occur independently of CETN2; however, mouse CETN2 regulates protein trafficking of olfactory cilia and participates in specifying planar polarity of ependymal cilia.
Local Activity Determines Functional Connectivity in the Resting Human Brain: A Simultaneous FDG-PET/fMRI Study
Authors: Riedl Valentin , Bienkowska Katarzyna , Strobel Carola , Tahmasian Masoud , Grimmer Timo , Förster Stefan , Friston Karl J. , Sorg Christian , Drzezga Alexander
Published: April 2014

Over the last decade, synchronized resting-state fluctuations of blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) signals between remote brain areas [so-called BOLD resting-state functional connectivity (rs-FC)] have gained enormous relevance in systems and clinical neuroscience. However, the neural underpinnings of rs-FC are still incompletely understood. Using simultaneous positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging we here directly investigated the relationship between rs-FC and local neuronal activity in humans. Computational models suggest a mechanistic link between the dynamics of local neuronal activity and the functional coupling among distributed brain regions. Therefore, we hypothesized that the local activity (LA) of a region at rest determines its rs-FC. To test this hypothesis, we simultaneously measured both LA (glucose metabolism) and rs-FC (via synchronized BOLD fluctuations) during conditions of eyes closed or eyes open. During eyes open, LA increased in the visual system, and the salience network (i.e., cingulate and insular cortices) and the pattern of elevated LA coincided almost exactly with the spatial pattern of increased rs-FC. Specifically, the voxelwise regional profile of LA in these areas strongly correlated with the regional pattern of rs-FC among the same regions (e.g., LA in primary visual cortex accounts for ∼50%, and LA in anterior cingulate accounts for ∼20% of rs-FC with the visual system). These data provide the first direct evidence in humans that local neuronal activity determines BOLD FC at rest. Beyond its relevance for the neuronal basis of coherent BOLD signal fluctuations, our procedure may translate into clinical research particularly to investigate potentially aberrant links between local dynamics and remote functional coupling in patients with neuropsychiatric disorders.
Controlling Phase Noise in Oscillatory Interference Models of Grid Cell Firing
Authors: Burgess Christopher P. , Burgess Neil
Published: April 2014

Oscillatory interference models account for the spatial firing properties of grid cells in terms of neuronal oscillators with frequencies modulated by the animal's movement velocity. The phase of such a “velocity-controlled oscillator” (VCO) relative to a baseline (theta-band) oscillation tracks displacement along a preferred direction. Input from multiple VCOs with appropriate preferred directions causes a grid cell's grid-like firing pattern. However, accumulating phase noise causes the firing pattern to drift and become corrupted. Here we show how multiple redundant VCOs can automatically compensate for phase noise. By entraining the baseline frequency to the mean VCO frequency, VCO phases remain consistent, ensuring a coherent grid pattern and reducing its spatial drift. We show how the spatial stability of grid firing depends on the variability in VCO phases, e.g., a phase SD of 3 ms per 125 ms cycle results in stable grids for 1 min. Finally, couplingNVCOs with similar preferred directions as a ring attractor, so that their relative phases remain constant, produces grid cells with consistently offset grids, and reduces VCO phase variability of the order square root ofN. The results suggest a viable functional organization of the grid cell network, and highlight the benefit of integrating displacement along multiple redundant directions for the purpose of path integration.
Nutritional State-Dependent Ghrelin Activation of Vasopressin Neurons via Retrograde Trans-Neuronal–Glial Stimulation of Excitatory GABA Circuits
Authors: Haam Juhee , Halmos Katalin C. , Di Shi , Tasker Jeffrey G.
Published: April 2014

Behavioral and physiological coupling between energy balance and fluid homeostasis is critical for survival. The orexigenic hormone ghrelin has been shown to stimulate the secretion of the osmoregulatory hormone vasopressin (VP), linking nutritional status to the control of blood osmolality, although the mechanism of this systemic crosstalk is unknown. Here, we show using electrophysiological recordings and calcium imaging in rat brain slices that ghrelin stimulates VP neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in a nutritional state-dependent manner by activating an excitatory GABAergic synaptic input via a retrograde neuronal–glial circuit. In slices from fasted rats, ghrelin activation of a postsynaptic ghrelin receptor, the growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHS-R1a), in VP neurons caused the dendritic release of VP, which stimulated astrocytes to release the gliotransmitter adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP activation of P2X receptors excited presynaptic GABA neurons to increase GABA release, which was excitatory to the VP neurons. This trans-neuronal–glial retrograde circuit activated by ghrelin provides an alternative means of stimulation of VP release and represents a novel mechanism of neuronal control by local neuronal–glial circuits. It also provides a potential cellular mechanism for the physiological integration of energy and fluid homeostasis.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 5 in the Ventral Tegmental Area Regulates Depression-Related Behaviors
Authors: Zhong Peng , Liu Xiaojie , Zhang Zhen , Hu Ying , Liu Sarah J. , Lezama-Ruiz Martha , Joksimovic Milan , Liu Qing-song
Published: April 2014

Dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) govern reward and motivation and dysregulated dopaminergic transmission may account for anhedonia and other symptoms of depression. Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) is a proline-directed serine/threonine kinase that regulates a broad range of brain functions through phosphorylation of a myriad of substrates, including tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate-limiting enzyme for dopamine synthesis. We investigated whether and how Cdk5 activity in VTA dopamine neurons regulated depression-related behaviors in mice. Using the Cre/LoxP system to selectively delete Cdk5 in the VTA or in midbrain dopamine neurons in Cdk5loxP/loxPmice, we showed that Cdk5 loss of function in the VTA induced anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors that were associated with decreases in TH phosphorylation at Ser31 and Ser40 in the VTA and dopamine release in its target region, the nucleus accumbens. The decreased phosphorylation of TH at Ser31 was a direct effect of Cdk5 deletion, whereas decreased phosphorylation of TH at Ser40 was likely caused by impaired cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling, because Cdk5 deletion decreased cAMP and phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (p-CREB) levels in the VTA. Using Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADD) technology, we showed that selectively increasing cAMP levels in VTA dopamine neurons increased phosphorylation of TH at Ser40 and CREB at Ser133 and reversed behavioral deficits induced by Cdk5 deletion. The results suggest that Cdk5 in the VTA regulates cAMP/PKA signaling, dopaminergic neurotransmission, and depression-related behaviors.
Sex, Age, and Cognitive Correlates of Asymmetries in Thickness of the Cortical Mantle Across the Life Span
Authors: Plessen Kerstin J. , Hugdahl Kenneth , Bansal Ravi , Hao Xuejun , Peterson Bradley S.
Published: April 2014

We assessed the correlations of age, sex, and cognitive performance with measures of asymmetry in cortical thickness on high-resolution MRIs in 215 healthy human children and adults, 7–59 years of age. A left > right asymmetry in thickness of the cortical mantle was present throughout the entire lateral, dorsal, and mesial surfaces of the frontal lobe, extending into primary sensory, superior parietal, and anterior superior temporal cortices. A right > left asymmetry was present in the lateral, mesial, and dorsal surfaces of the posterior temporal, parietal, and occipital cortices, as well as in the entire inferior surface of the brain. An exaggerated left > right asymmetry was detected in females in anterior brain regions, and an exaggerated right > left asymmetry was detected in males in the orbitofrontal, inferior parietal, and inferior occipital cortices. Weaker moderating effects of sex were scattered along the mesial surface of the brain. Age significantly moderated asymmetry measures in the inferior sensorimotor, inferior parietal, posterior temporal, and inferior occipital cortices. The age × asymmetry interaction derived from a steeper decline in cortical thickness with age in the right hemisphere than in the left on the lateral surface, whereas it derived from a steeper decline with age in the left hemisphere than in the right on the mesial surface. Finally, measures of performance on working memory and vocabulary tasks improved with increasing magnitudes of normal asymmetries in regions thought to support these cognitive capacities.