bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidermal growth factor-receptor activation modulates Src-dependent resistance to lapatinib in breast cancer models
Authors: Formisano Luigi , Nappi Lucia , Rosa Roberta , Marciano Roberta , D’Amato Claudia , D’Amato Valentina , Damiano Vincenzo , Raimondo Lucia , Iommelli Francesca , Scorziello Antonella , Troncone Giancarlo , Veneziani Bianca Maria , Parsons Sarah J , De Placido Sabino , Bianco Roberto
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Src tyrosine kinase overactivation has been correlated with a poor response to human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) inhibitors in breast cancer. To identify the mechanism by which Src overexpression sustains this resistance, we tested a panel of breast cancer cell lines either sensitive or resistant to lapatinib.

Methods

To determine the role of Src in lapatinib resistance, we evaluated the effects of Src inhibition/silencing in vitro on survival, migration, and invasion of lapatinib-resistant cells. In vivo experiments were performed in JIMT-1 lapatinib-resistant cells orthotopically implanted in nude mice. We used artificial metastasis assays to evaluate the effect of Src inhibition on the invasiveness of lapatinib-resistant cells. Src-dependent signal transduction was investigated with Western blot and ELISA analyses.

Results

Src activation was higher in lapatinib-resistant than in lapatinib-sensitive cells. The selective small-molecule Src inhibitor saracatinib combined with lapatinib synergistically inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of lapatinib-resistant cells. Saracatinib combined with lapatinib significantly prolonged survival of JIMT-1-xenografted mice compared with saracatinib alone, and impaired the formation of lung metastases. Unexpectedly, in lapatinib-resistant cells, Src preferentially interacted with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) rather than with HER2. Moreover, EGFR targeting and lapatinib synergistically inhibited survival, migration, and invasion of resistant cells, thereby counteracting Src-mediated resistance. These findings demonstrate that Src activation in lapatinib-resistant cells depends on EGFR-dependent rather than on HER2-dependent signaling.

Conclusions

Complete pharmacologic EGFR/HER2 inhibition is required to reverse Src-dependent resistance to lapatinib in breast cancer.
Gestational Protein Restriction Impairs Insulin-Regulated Glucose Transport Mechanisms in Gastrocnemius Muscles of Adult Male Offspring
Authors: Blesson Chellakkan S. , Sathishkumar Kunju , Chinnathambi Vijayakumar , Yallampalli Chandrasekhar
Published: May 2014

Type II diabetes originates from various genetic and environmental factors. Recent studies showed that an adverse uterine environment such as that caused by a gestational low-protein (LP) diet can cause insulin resistance in adult offspring. The mechanism of insulin resistance induced by gestational protein restriction is not clearly understood. Our aim was to investigate the role of insulin signaling molecules in gastrocnemius muscles of gestational LP diet–exposed male offspring to understand their role in LP-induced insulin resistance. Pregnant Wistar rats were fed a control (20% protein) or isocaloric LP (6%) diet from gestational day 4 until delivery and a normal diet after weaning. Only male offspring were used in this study. Glucose and insulin responses were assessed after a glucose tolerance test. mRNA and protein levels of molecules involved in insulin signaling were assessed at 4 months in gastrocnemius muscles. Muscles were incubated ex vivo with insulin to evaluate insulin-induced phosphorylation of insulin receptor (IR), Insulin receptor substrate-1, Akt, and AS160. LP diet-fed rats gained less weight than controls during pregnancy. Male pups from LP diet–fed mothers were smaller but exhibited catch-up growth. Plasma glucose and insulin levels were elevated in LP offspring when subjected to a glucose tolerance test; however, fasting levels were comparable. LP offspring showed increased expression of IR and AS160 in gastrocnemius muscles. Ex vivo treatment of muscles with insulin showed increased phosphorylation of IR (Tyr972) in controls, but LP rats showed higher basal phosphorylation. Phosphorylation of Insulin receptor substrate-1 (Tyr608, Tyr895, Ser307, and Ser318) and AS160 (Thr642) were defective in LP offspring. Further, glucose transporter type 4 translocation in LP offspring was also impaired. A gestational LP diet leads to insulin resistance in adult offspring by a mechanism involving inefficient insulin-induced IR, Insulin receptor substrate-1, and AS160 phosphorylation and impaired glucose transporter type 4 translocation.
CONTAMINAÇÃO AMBIENTAL POR LARVAS E OVOS DE HELMINTOS EM AMOSTRAS DE AREIA DE PRAIAS DO MUNICÍPIO DE FORTALEZA-CEARÁ.
Authors: Pedrosa Ésio Fortaleza Nascimento Chaves , Cabral Bruno Leite , De Almeida Paulo Ricardo Souza Frota , Madeira Mayara Ponte , De Carvalho Barbara Duarte , Bastos Kelma Maria Souza , Vale Josias Martins
Published: May 2014

Introdução: As praias são importantes focos de infecção humana por microrganismos, tanto através da água quanto do solo, sendo esta última um excelente meio de veiculação de várias espécies de parasitos, entre eles S. stercoralis, Toxocara canis, A. lumbricoides, Ancilostomídeos, entre outros. Objetivo do estudo: avaliar a contaminação das praias de Fortaleza (Praia do Futuro, Barra do Ceará e Beira Mar) por parasitas de importância médica.Materiais e Métodos: Foram selecionados seis pontos de cada praia onde foi colhido material (100 g de areia) em três amostras (uma superficial, uma com 10 cm de profundidade e outra com 20 cm), totalizando 54 amostras, que foram transportadas imediatamente ao laboratório para a análise. Resultados: Dentre as 54 amostras de areia analisadas, em 39 (72,2%) foram encontradas larvas, das quais 35 (64,8%) foram positivas para Ancylostoma sp , 3 (5,5%) para Strongyloides stercoralis e 4 (7,4%)  com ovos de Trichuris trichiura. Discussão: Os resultados apresentados comprovam a contaminação do solo da praia do Futuro, Beira Mar e Barra do Ceará, assim como a possibilidade de ocorrência de infecções humanas por enteroparasitas através do solo. Conclusão: Conclui-se que as praias da Barra do Ceará, Praia do Futuro e Beira Mar da cidade de Fortaleza encontram-se em situação precária de saneamento, visto que foram encontrados ovos e larvas de parasitas potencialmente infectantes em 72,2% das amostras, tornando-se necessário apoio e suporte de medidas da vigilância sanitária nestas praias imediatamente.
ASPECTOS EPIDEMIOLÓGICOS DA TRANSMISSÃO DE DENGUE EM SANTOS, SÃO PAULO, NO PERÍODO DE 1997 A 2012.
Authors: Bellegarde Fernandes Maria Angela , Natal Delsio , Domingos Maria de Fátima
Published: May 2014

Após a erradicação do Aedes aegypti no Brasil no final dos anos 50 do século passado, focos foram assinalados nos anos 80 na cidade de Santos, todavia a sua reinfestação definitiva foi comprovada nos anos 90. Os primeiros casos de dengue autóctones foram registrados no início de 1997. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar a dengue no município de Santos desde a sua reintrodução levando-se em consideração alguns de seus aspectos epidemiológicos, bem como as possíveis causas do comportamento das epidemias. As análises de incidência foram restritas aos casos em residentes (autóctones) que foram notificados e confirmados, no período de1997 a 2012, segundo: faixa etária, sexo, mês e ano de ocorrência. O comportamento da incidência da dengue durante a série temporal mostrou: anos epidêmicos intercalados com surtos e possíveis casos de reinfecção para cada introdução de sorotipo distinto, o que aumenta o risco de casos de dengue grave mostrando também um quadro de endemicidade da doença. Os métodos de controle utilizados, embora legitimamente embasados, não foram suficientes para evitar os surtos e as epidemias. Interpreta-se ter faltado a integração das ações – Controle Integrado.
Ambivalence in Organizations: A Multilevel Approach
Authors: Ashforth Blake E. , Rogers Kristie M. , Pratt Michael G. , Pradies Camille
Published: May 2014

The experience of simultaneously positive and negative orientations toward a person, goal, task, idea, and such appears to be quite common in organizations, but it is poorly understood. We develop a multilevel perspective on ambivalence in organizations that demonstrates how this phenomenon is integral to certain cognitive and emotional processes and important outcomes. Specifically, we discuss the organizational triggers of ambivalence and the cognitive and emotional mechanisms through which ambivalence diffuses between the individual and collective levels of analysis. We offer an integrative framework of major responses to highly intense ambivalence (avoidance, domination, compromise, and holism) that is applicable to actors at the individual and collective levels. The positive and negative outcomes associated with each response, and the conditions under which each is most effective, are explored. Although ambivalence is uncomfortable for actors, it has the potential to foster growth in the actor as well as highly adaptive and effective behavior.
Why be moral? In defense of a Kohlbergian approach
Authors: Lourenço Orlando
Published: May 2014

This article revolves around the “Why be moral?” question, a fundamental ethical question raised by Kohlberg and Ryncarz (1990) in the field of moral development. The study is in three parts. In the first part, Introduction, I refer to this fundamental ethical question and the questions related to it. In the second part, I compare Kohlberg’s response to that question and the questions related to it with those given, implicitly or explicitly, by other relevant figures of developmental psychology. Contrary to other developmental psychologists, I argue that, for several reasons, Kohlberg’s response to the why be moral question is more complete and deeper than that presented by the relevant developmental figures analyzed in this article. Despite this, I recognize that, as far as the other questions associated with the why be moral question are concerned, all those figures made important contributions to a better understanding of one’s moral functioning, and that some of them explored moral issues, which, to some extent, were overlooked by Kohlberg. In the third part, Final Words, I summarize the main ideas of the paper and enumerate several reasons why Kohlberg’s answer to the why be moral question is the most complete and deepest one among those presented so far in the field of moral development.
Por uma Análise de Conteúdo Mais Fiável
Authors: Lima Jorge Ávila de
Published: May 2014

A análise de conteúdo é uma técnica muito invocada e utilizada nas ciências sociais e humanas, incluindo as ciências da educação, mas raramente desenvolvida de forma adequada. No presente texto, defende‑se a necessidadede uma abordagem mais sistemática e rigorosa a esta análise e propõem‑se soluções técnicas para algumas das principais situações com que os analistas de conteúdo se deparam. O texto inclui recomendações metodológicas relativas a diversos aspetos deste tipo de trabalho e uma lista de verificação que permite aos investigadores determinarem em que medida as suas análises se pautam por critérios de rigor neste domínio.
Navarinou: “co-formando” un Espacio Público
Authors: Kampourakis Ilias
Published: May 2014

El presente artículo resume la investigación presentada por el autor como el proyecto final del Máster de Arquitectura del Paisaje de la Universidad Politécnica de Cataluña. Se trata de una investigación de la evolución de la co-formación del Parque Navarinou, situado en el centro de la capital griega, a través de procesos de participación ciudadana. Aprovechando tanto el material de investigación empírica (entrevistas con las partes interesadas) como el material secundario (artículos de prensa, blogs, etc.), la investigación se enfoca en las características de los procesos participativos y subraya las distintas fases. Al mismo tiempo, a través del trabajo, el seguimiento (a partir de mapas y dibujos) exhiben las huellas espaciales y evolución de esos procesos. Por otra parte, la investigación se enfoca en el proceso de producción de espacio, principalmente con la reutilización de materiales, así como los factores relacionados con la funcionalidad y las actividades que toman lugar en el parque y permiten la animación del espacio.
Resonant matter: pattern correlates of process-in-formation
Authors: Báez Manuel Antonio
Published: May 2014

Through the aid of ever advancing technology, the analysis of complex phenomena offers us more comprehensive insights regarding the intricate inner workings of Nature’s dynamic processes. Through such digital simulations (i.e., of fluid, aero, neuro and vibratory dynamics), the operations and flow of energy are revealed as highly patterned process-structures of activity. These vivid configurations often resemble and correlate with the patterns and motifs found at different scales throughout Nature and in a myriad of cultural artifacts. As intricately braided cellular relationships, these fertile processes evolve into highly integrative systems with re-generative, shape-shifting and re-structuring capabilities. Moreover, they are robust coalitions of event-filled-processes, highly responsive and fluently encoded with information. This embodied potential of generative kinetic in-formation and related patterns have been explored and offer more comprehensive insights regarding the resonances between self-organization, pattern generation and emergent complex morphology. At the heart of this lies the nature of process-structures and their elaborations into multi-dimensionally entrained kinetic patterns of patterns-in-formation. We are experientially embodied with and inextricably embedded within this interplay of ubiquitous metapatterns with reciprocally related cultural artifacts and motifs offering insightful resonances as analytical tools advance and probe further into the inner workings of the human mind and the nature of embodied consciousness.
Valores associados ao trabalho: Um estudo com a população residente na Covilhã
Authors: Soares Cátia , Afonso Rosa Marina
Published: May 2014

O trabalho é um dos principais elementos estruturador da sociabilidade e é um fator organizador fundamental da vida e identidade dos indivíduos. É através dos valores associados ao trabalho que o indivíduo atribui um sentido e que interpreta as experiências relacionadas com o mesmo. Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar os valores associados ao trabalho de 172 sujeitos que se encontram no ativo. Foram utilizados dois instrumentos, o Questionário Sociodemográfico e o Questionário sobre Valores Associados ao Trabalho (Q.V.A.T.). Os resultados do estudo indicam a existência de diferenças dos valores de trabalho relacionadas com o género, idade, grau de escolaridade, situação profissional atual, anos de trabalho e número de pessoas dependentes economicamente do sujeito respondente. Os resultados sugerem a importância do estudo e análise dos valores associados ao trabalho para a compreensão e intervenção psicológica, social e organizacional no contexto do trabalho.
Diagnóstico de oportunidades escolares de egresados y egresadas del nivel medio superior del municipio de Tlalnepantla del Estado de México
Authors: Briseño Hurtado Fernando , Cardoso Espinosa Edgar Oliver , Mejía Bricaire Jorge
Published: May 2014

Recibido 10 de setiembre de 2013 • Corregido 21 de marzo de 2014 • Aceptado 2 de abril de 2014Actualmente es vital que el sistema escolar promueva que las oportunidades educativas se distribuyan equitativamente entre todos los sectores sociales e impulsar que  los egresados y las egresadas tengan la oportunidad de desempeñar ocupaciones en las que puedan aprovechar cabalmente la escolaridad que hayan adquirido. Por tanto, este trabajo tuvo como objetivo diagnosticar las oportunidades escolares que han tenido los egresados y las egresadas en el nivel medio superior, con respecto a la formación académica y su relación con el desempeño profesional y laboral.  Se realizó una investigación de tipo exploratorio, al determinar las oportunidades escolares de los egresados y las egresadas; descriptiva porque se identificaron los medios de inserción laboral, su continuidad en la educación superior y el grado de satisfacción del servicio educativo recibido. El diseño fue de carácter transversal, ya que se recolectaron los datos en un tiempo único, aplicando un cuestionario de 44 preguntas, a 65 egresados (36) y egresadas(29), los resultados mostraron que los puestos donde se desempeñan son semejantes a los de sus padres o madres: empleados 36.9% y  obreros 13.8% y  solo el 41.5% logró continuar sus estudios superiores en instituciones públicas, lo cual refleja que los estudiantes pobres se encuentran en desventaja debido a sus antecedentes socioeconómicos y culturales.
Tinnitus in patients on therapy with proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and in PPI non-users
Authors: Pirodda Antonio , Raimondi Maria Chiara , Cicero Arrigo Francesco Giuseppe , Rosticci Martina , Rinaldi Elisa Rebecca , Bellacosa Lara , Stanghellini Vincenzo , Borghi Claudio
Published: May 2014

Objective:

We wished to observe the prevalence of tinnitus in subjects on therapy with proton pump inhibitors (PPI). A possible favourable effect of the commercially available proton pump inhibitors (PPI) on inner ear disorders was recently outlined. In order to investigate this possibility the prevalence of tinnitus (an indicator of labyrinthine sufferance in general terms) among PPI users and non-users was analysed.

Study design:

An observational study on the prevalence of tinnitus among PPI users and non-users was carried out. Between June 2012 and March 2013 a cohort of consecutive patients who were referred to S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital of Bologna for various non-audiological disorders was included in the study. Each patient was instructed to complete an anonymous validated questionnaire on hearing problems. The Ethics Committee of S. Orsola Malpighi Hospital had been informed about collection of the data.

Results:

In the age class 60–69 years there was a statistically significant lower prevalence of non-specified tinnitus in PPI users, compared to non-users.

Conclusion:

Even if a favourable effect on this symptom derived from the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux cannot be excluded, a direct regulatory effect on inner ear homeostasis, through the action of PPI on the gastric type proton pump of the inner ear, cannot be ruled out. Another possible effect could depend upon vasomotor activity enabling better peripheral perfusion without significantly modifying blood pressure values, thus contributing to the stabilization of inner ear oxygenation. Additionally, a certain degree of anti-inflammatory effect could yield another kind of non-specific favourable influx. In conclusion, even if the supposed benefit deriving from the use of PPI in treating inner ear affections of unknown origin is still unclear with regard to its significance and limits, the reported results demonstrate that longitudinal studies could be useful in order to verify the possibility of a new therapeutic perspective.
Whiplash injury and neuro-otological sequelae
Authors: Samji Alim , Thiagarajan Venkataramana , Yeoh Robin
Published: May 2014

Objective:

Epidemiological data showing an association between whiplash and neuro-otological symptoms have existed for many years; however, despite growing evidence a causal relationship has not been forthcoming. This review aims to identify whether evidence exists to substantiate a pathophysiological link between whiplash and its presumed neuro-otological consequences.

Study design:

A literature search was performed in accordance with ‘the literature search process: guidance for NHS researchers’, using the search terms ‘whiplash’, ‘vertigo’, ‘hearing loss’, ‘dizziness’, ‘tinnitus’, ‘hyperacusis’. This was augmented using citation linking.

Results:

No evidence was found that satisfactorily proved a pathophysiological link, but there was evidence to support several plausible theories. For hearing loss and tinnitus/hyperacusis these include auditory processing disorders (APD) secondary to cerebral hypoperfusion due to stimulation of cervical nociceptive afferents; and Eustachian tube dysfunction secondary to temporomandibular joint dysfunction. For vertigo/dizziness they include ‘cervical dizziness’ secondary to damage to vestibulocollic/cervicocollic reflexes, osteoarticular tendon sensors/cervical neuromuscular spindles with resulting proprioceptive dysfunction and discordance with visual input; central or peripheral vestibular pathology; and psychosocial factors.

Conclusions:

The results highlight the multifactorial, biopsychosocial nature of whiplash. Although the largest contributors to neuro-otological symptoms appear to be psychosocial, the results identify promising, if largely theoretical, pathophysiological mechanisms. Unfortunately, much of the work is underpowered and often lacks controls. It therefore creates a need for further research and forms a basis for that research.
Brendan at the Chelsea
Authors: Behan Janet
Published: May 2014

Brendan at the Chelsea, which started life at the National Theatre Studio, was one of the first productions in the opening season at the newly rebuilt Lyric Theatre, Belfast in 2011. The Lyric production toured to New York, Belfast, Dublin, and Derry in 2013.
Saint Behan
Authors: McGuinness Frank
Published: May 2014

This essay examines Brendan Behan's evolution as a dramatist, linking him to the tradition of O'Casey's urban theatre, particularly Juno and the Paycock, and emphasising his closeness to the experimental drama of his near contemporary, Samuel Beckett. It details how subversively Behan used both music and the Gaelic language in sexualizing the story of The Quare Fellow, how he censors such radical departures in An Giall, and how The Hostage in its wild exuberance restores Behan to the status of a most dangerously liberated dramatist. Finally it looks at the influence of Behan on his most significant follower, the openly queer English playwright, Joe Orton.
A 3-D Model of a Perennial Ryegrass Primary Cell Wall and Its Enzymatic Degradation
Authors: Vetharaniam Indrakumar , Kelly William , Attwood Graeme , Harris Philip
Published: May 2014

We have developed a novel 3-D, agent-based model of cell-wall digestion to improve our understanding of ruminal cell-wall digestion. It offers a capability to study cell walls and their enzymatic modification, by providing a representation of cellulose microfibrils and non-cellulosic polysaccharides and by simulating their spatial and catalytic interactions with enzymes. One can vary cell-wall composition and the types and numbers of enzyme molecules, allowing the model to be applied to a range of systems where cell walls are degraded and to the modification of cell walls by endogenous enzymes. As a proof of principle, we have modelled the wall of a mesophyll cell from the leaf of perennial ryegrass and then simulated its enzymatic degradation. This is a primary, non-lignified cell wall and the model includes cellulose, hemicelluloses (glucuronoarabinoxylans, 1,3;1,4-β-glucans, and xyloglucans) and pectin. These polymers are represented at the level of constituent monosaccharides, and assembled to form a 3-D, meso-scale representation of the molecular structure of the cell wall. The composition of the cell wall can be parameterised to represent different walls in different cell types and taxa. The model can contain arbitrary combinations of different enzymes. It simulates their random diffusion through the polymer networks taking collisions into account, allowing steric hindrance from cell-wall polymers to be modelled. Steric considerations are included when target bonds are encountered, and breakdown products resulting from enzymatic activity are predicted.
A Novel Proteomic Analysis of the Modifications Induced by High Hydrostatic Pressure on Hazelnut Water-Soluble Proteins
Authors: Prieto Nuria , Burbano Carmen , Iniesto Elisa , Rodríguez Julia , Cabanillas Beatriz , Crespo Jesus , Pedrosa Mercedes , Muzquiz Mercedes , Del Pozo Juan , Linacero Rosario , Cuadrado Carmen
Published: May 2014

Food allergies to hazelnut represent an important health problem in industrialized countries because of their high prevalence and severity. Food allergenicity can be changed by several processing procedures since food proteins may undergo modifications which could alter immunoreactivity. High-hydrostatic pressure (HHP) is an emerging processing technology used to develop novel and high-quality foods. The effect of HHP on allergenicity is currently being investigated through changes in protein structure. Our aim is to evaluate the effect of HHP on the protein profile of hazelnut immunoreactive extracts by comparative proteomic analysis with ProteomeLab PF-2D liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. This protein fractionation method resolves proteins by isoelectric point and hydrophobicity in the first and second dimension, respectively. Second dimension chromatogram analyses show that some protein peaks present in unpressurized hazelnut must be unsolubilized and are not present in HHP-treated hazelnut extracts. Our results show that HHP treatment at low temperature induced marked changes on hazelnut water-soluble protein profile.
Epigenetic Variation in Monozygotic Twins: A Genome-Wide Analysis of DNA Methylation in Buccal Cells
Authors: Van Dongen Jenny , Ehli Erik , Slieker Roderick , Bartels Meike , Weber Zachary , Davies Gareth , Slagboom P. , Heijmans Bastiaan , Boomsma Dorret
Published: May 2014

DNA methylation is one of the most extensively studied epigenetic marks in humans. Yet, it is largely unknown what causes variation in DNA methylation between individuals. The comparison of DNA methylation profiles of monozygotic (MZ) twins offers a unique experimental design to examine the extent to which such variation is related to individual-specific environmental influences and stochastic events or to familial factors (DNA sequence and shared environment). We measured genome-wide DNA methylation in buccal samples from ten MZ pairs (age 8–19) using the Illumina 450k array and examined twin correlations for methylation level at 420,921 CpGs after QC. After selecting CpGs showing the most variation in the methylation level between subjects, the mean genome-wide correlation (rho) was 0.54. The correlation was higher, on average, for CpGs within CpG islands (CGIs), compared to CGI shores, shelves and non-CGI regions, particularly at hypomethylated CpGs. This finding suggests that individual-specific environmental and stochastic influences account for more variation in DNA methylation in CpG-poor regions. Our findings also indicate that it is worthwhile to examine heritable and shared environmental influences on buccal DNA methylation in larger studies that also include dizygotic twins.
Association of Dioxin and Other Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) with Diabetes: Epidemiological Evidence and New Mechanisms of Beta Cell Dysfunction
Authors: De Tata Vincenzo
Published: May 2014

The worldwide explosion of the rates of diabetes and other metabolic diseases in the last few decades cannot be fully explained only by changes in the prevalence of classical lifestyle-related risk factors, such as physical inactivity and poor diet. For this reason, it has been recently proposed that other “nontraditional” risk factors could contribute to the diabetes epidemics. In particular, an increasing number of reports indicate that chronic exposure to and accumulation of a low concentration of environmental pollutants (especially the so-called persistent organic pollutants (POPs)) within the body might be associated with diabetogenesis. In this review, the epidemiological evidence suggesting a relationship between dioxin and other POPs exposure and diabetes incidence will be summarized, and some recent developments on the possible underlying mechanisms, with particular reference to dioxin, will be presented and discussed.
In Vitro Inhibitory Effects of Scutellarin on Six Human/Rat Cytochrome P450 Enzymes and P-glycoprotein
Authors: Han Yong-Long , Li Dan , Yang Quan-Jun , Zhou Zhi-Yong , Liu Li-Ya , Li Bin , Lu Jin , Guo Cheng
Published: May 2014

Inhibition of cytochrome P450 (CYP) and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) are regarded as the most frequent and clinically important pharmacokinetic causes among the various possible factors for drug-drug interactions. Scutellarin is a flavonoid which is widely used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In this study, the in vitro inhibitory effects of scutellarin on six major human CYPs (CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4) and six rat CYPs (CYP1A2, CYP2C7, CYP2C11, CYP2C79, CYP2D4, and CYP3A2) activities were examined by using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Meanwhile, the inhibitory effects of scutellarin on P-gp activity were examined on a human metastatic malignant melanoma cell line WM-266-4 by calcein-AM fluorometry screening assay. Results demonstrated that scutellarin showed negligible inhibitory effects on the six major CYP isoenzymes in human/rat liver microsomes with almost all of the IC50 values exceeding 100 μM, whereas it showed values of 63.8 μM for CYP2C19 in human liver microsomes, and 63.1 and 85.6 μM for CYP2C7 and CYP2C79 in rat liver microsomes, respectively. Scutellarin also showed weak inhibitory effect on P-gp. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that scutellarin is unlikely to cause any clinically significant herb-drug interactions in humans when co-administered with substrates of the six CYPs (CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4) and P-gp.
Selecting Essential Information for Biosurveillance - A Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis
Authors: Generous Nicholas , Margevicius Kristen , Taylor-McCabe Kirsten , Brown Mac , Daniel W. Brent , Castro Lauren , Hengartner Andrea , Deshpande Alina
Published: May 2014

This paper proposes the use of Multi-Attribute Utility Theory to address the issue of identifying and selecting essential information for inclusion into a biosurveillance system or process. We developed a decision support framework that can facilitate identifying data streams for use in biosurveillance systems or processes and demonstrated utility by applying the framework to the problem of evaluating data streams for use in an global infectious disease surveillance system.
The Effect of Training of School Physicians on Their Knowledge Regarding Surveillance in Alexandria
Authors: El-Nimr Nessrin , Wahdan Iman
Published: May 2014

Background: Surveillance is important in schools. We assessed the effect of a training program on the knowledge of school physicians regarding surveillance. Methods: Seventy school physicians were included. Assessment of their baseline surveillance knowledge was done (pretest). An intervention program was prepared. Assessment of the training program was done using the same data collection tool (post test). Results: Significant difference in the mean knowledge score before and after the intervention was detected. In a multiple linear regression model, the total knowledge score before the intervention and the age of the physician were the only two factors found to be significantly affecting the school physicians' knowledge score after the intervention. Conclusion: Training of school physicians on disease surveillance has an effect on their level of knowledge regarding surveillance.
U.S. Pneumonia and Influenza Mortality Surveillance: A New Era
Authors: Kniss Krista , Malcolm Bianca , Sutton Paul , Brammer Lynnette
Published: May 2014

The National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) and the Influenza Division are collaborating to increase accuracy and decrease resources needed for pneumonia and influenza mortality surveillance in the United States Electronic death registration systems as well as funding to states have made reporting of mortality data to NCHS near real-time. We assessed the timeliness of the NCHS data and compared the data to the 122 Cities Reporting System (CMRS). Because of increased timeliness of the NCHS data and correlation to the 122 CMRS we will continue to monitor data from NCHS as a potential replacement for the 122 CMRS.
Under-ascertainment of Illness due to Influenza in Administrative Databases, a Population-based Record Linkage Study
Authors: Muscatello David J. , Amin Janaki , MacIntyre C. Raina , Newall Anthony T. , Rawlinson William D. , Sintchenko Vitali , Gilmour Robin , Thackway Sarah
Published: May 2014

Administrative and vital statistics databases are frequently used for public health surveillance of influenza incidence and outcomes. We used population based, probabilistic record linkage of laboratory diagnosed influenza, emergency department, hospital admission and death registration databases to determine how frequently laboratory diagnosed influenza is coded as influenza or recorded as a cause of death. Influenza was substantially under-recorded as a cause of emergency presentation, hospitalization and death. Influenza type A infection was more likely than type B to lead to coding of influenza. Despite under-coding, time series of coded influenza from databases do reflect trends in influenza incidence.
Validation of Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Respiratory Syndrome using Electronic Health Records
Authors: OYong Kelsey , Kajita Emily , Araki Patricia , Luarca Monica , Hwang Bessie
Published: May 2014

In Los Angeles County, emergency department data is collected from hospitals and classified into syndromes based on chief complaints. To validate this respiratory syndromic surveillance categorization, chief complaint data were compared to discharge diagnoses extracted from electronic health records from one hospital emergency department in Los Angeles County during one week in January 2013. The agreement between syndrome classification and discharge diagnosis for respiratory reports is high (k=0.75), though over 25% of diagnosis data were missing. Further validation of additional syndromes is needed. Electronic health records are valuable sources of data and can enhance the validity of syndromic surveillance systems.
Perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes submetidos à artroplastia de joelho do serviço de fisioterapia em hospital público de Santo André-SP
Authors: Santos Adriana Cordeiro dos , Biagi Alessandra Cristina
Published: May 2014

Introdução: A artroplastia de joelho é indicada para incapacidade grave resultante de dor, deformidade e função limitada como resultado de artrose, artrites reumáticas, osteonecrose e outras. Objetivo: Traçar o perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes submetidos à artroplastia de joelho do serviço de fisioterapia do Hospital Estadual Mário Covas (HEMC) de Santo André-SP. Métodos: Estudo do tipo retrospectivo baseado em um levantamento dos prontuários de pacientes que se submeteram à cirurgia de artroplastia de joelho no período de janeiro de 2007 a dezembro de 2009, e que realizaram reabilitação no setor de fisioterapia do HEMC. Resultados: A média de idade encontrada foi de 69,1 anos, prevalecendo o sexo feminino em 56,7% dos casos. Na totalidade dos prontuários encontrou-se como etiologia a gonartrose e o tipo de cirurgia realizada foi a artroplastia total de joelho, sendo 89,1% cirurgias unilaterais. Dentre as comorbidades encontradas, a hipertensão arterial sistêmica apresentou prevalência em 81,08%, no pós-operatório obteve-se 67,5% dos casos sem complicações. O tempo médio de reabilitação fisioterapêutica foi de 2,6 meses, 72,9% dos casos obtiveram alta por objetivos alcançados. A análise realizada revelou cinco municípios diferentes de procedência dos pacientes tratados no serviço do HEMC. Conclusão: Ao se comparar os resultados com os achados bibliográficos recentes encontrou-se, em grande parte, proximidades entre os dados.
A neurotoxicidade da Cannabis sativa e suas repercussões sobre a morfologia do tecido cerebral
Authors: Santos Bárbara Da Silva , Coertjens Marcelo
Published: May 2014

Para a compreensão das repercussões psicológicas e comportamentais verificadas em usuários de Cannabis sativa, experimentos têm sido desenvolvidos analisando a relação entre a intensidade do uso da droga e biomarcadores de lesão e inflamação. Dessa forma, este estudo teve como objetivo realizar pesquisa bibliográfica, relacionando marcadores bioquímicos de neurotoxicidade e suas repercussões sobre a morfologia do tecido cerebral em usuários de Cannabis sativa, durante a exposição ao ∆9-THC por via intravenosa e em pesquisas in vitro. Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa cuja pesquisa bibliográfica foi realizada nos bancos de dados PubMed, SciELO e Google Acadêmico, utilizando-se como critério de inclusão os seguintes termos: “Cannabis sativa”, “marijuana”, “maconha”, “Δ9-THC”, “neurotrophins”, “neurotrofinas”, “prostaglandins”, “prostaglandinas”, “BDNF” e “NGF”. Dessa forma, foram selecionados 40 artigos para integrar a presente revisão, datados de 1987 a 2013. O período de realização da pesquisa bibliográfica foi de agosto de 2011 a maio de 2013. Foi possível identificar os tipos e a magnitude das alterações morfológicas e bioquímicas decorrentes do uso de Cannabis sativa ou da exposição ao ∆9-THC. De uma forma geral, foi constatada a diminuição das massas cinzenta e branca do cérebro, da densidade do hipocampo, do volume das células neurais, entre outros. Foram constatadas também alterações nos níveis séricos de neurotrofinas e na biossíntese de prostaglandinas, de acordo com a metodologia utilizada ou região avaliada. Esses achados poderiam estar relacionados às mudanças comportamentais observadas em usuários de Cannabis sativa, esclarecendo, por exemplo, diversos sintomas psíquicos relatados na literatura.
The SPARC Data Initiative: Comparison of upper troposphere/lower stratosphere ozone climatologies from limb‐viewing instruments and the nadir‐viewing Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer
Authors: Neu J. L. , Hegglin M. I. , Tegtmeier S. , Bourassa A. , Degenstein D. , Froidevaux L. , Fuller R. , Funke B. , Gille J. , Jones A. , Rozanov A. , Toohey M. , von Clarmann T. , Walker K. A. , Worden J. R.
Published: May 2014

We present the first comprehensive intercomparison of currently available satellite ozone climatologies in the upper troposphere/lower stratosphere (UTLS) (300–70 hPa) as part of the Stratosphere‐troposphere Processes and their Role in Climate (SPARC) Data Initiative. The Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES) instrument is the only nadir‐viewing instrument in this initiative, as well as the only instrument with a focus on tropospheric composition. We apply the TES observational operator to ozone climatologies from the more highly vertically resolved limb‐viewing instruments. This minimizes the impact of differences in vertical resolution among the instruments and allows identification of systematic differences in the large‐scale structure and variability of UTLS ozone. We find that the climatologies from most of the limb‐viewing instruments show positive differences (ranging from 5 to 75%) with respect to TES in the tropical UTLS, and comparison to a “zonal mean” ozonesonde climatology indicates that these differences likely represent a positive bias for p ≤ 100 hPa. In the extratropics, there is good agreement among the climatologies regarding the timing and magnitude of the ozone seasonal cycle (differences in the peak‐to‐peak amplitude of <15%) when the TES observational operator is applied, as well as very consistent midlatitude interannual variability. The discrepancies in ozone temporal variability are larger in the tropics, with differences between the data sets of up to 55% in the seasonal cycle amplitude. However, the differences among the climatologies are everywhere much smaller than the range produced by current chemistry‐climate models, indicating that the multiple‐instrument ensemble is useful for quantitatively evaluating these models.
Spatial distribution and temporal evolution of crustal melt distribution beneath the East Pacific Rise at 9°–10°N inferred from 3‐D seafloor compliance modeling
Authors: Zha Yang , Webb Spahr C. , Nooner Scott. L. , Crawford Wayne C.
Published: May 2014

Determining the melt distribution in oceanic crust at mid‐ocean ridges is critical to understanding how magma is transported and emplaced in the crust. Seafloor compliance—deformation under ocean wave forcing—is primarily sensitive to regions of low shear velocity in the crust, making it a useful tool to probe melt distribution. Analysis of compliance data collected at East Pacific Rise between 9° and 10°N through 3‐D numerical modeling reveals strong along‐axis variations in the lower crustal shear velocities, as well as temporal variation of crustal shear velocity near 9°48′N between measurements spanning 8 years. Compliance measured across the rise axis at 9°48′N and 9°33′N suggest a deep crustal low‐velocity zone beneath the ridge axis, with a low Vs/Vp ratio consistent with melt in low aspect ratio cracks or sills. Changes in compliance measured at 9°48′N between years 1999 and 2007 suggest that the melt fraction in the axial crust decreased during this interval, perhaps following the 2005–2006 seafloor eruption. This temporal variability provides direct evidence for short‐term variations of the magmatic system at a fast spreading ridge.
Interconnected Frameworks with a Sandwiched Porous Carbon Layer/Graphene Hybrids for Supercapacitors with High Gravimetric and Volumetric Performances
Authors: Yan Jun , Wang Qian , Lin Changpeng , Wei Tong , Fan Zhuangjun
Published: May 2014

A facile approach to synthesize porous disordered carbon layers as energy storage units coating on graphene sheets to form interconnected frameworks by one‐step pyrolysis of the mixture of graphene oxide/polyaniline and KOH is presented. As effective energy storage units, these porous carbon layers play an important role in enhancing the electrochemical performances. The obtained porous carbon material exhibits a high specific surface area (2927 m2 g−1), hierarchical interconnected pores, moderate pore volume (1.78 cm3 g−1), short ion diffusion paths, and a high nitrogen level (6 at%). It displays both unparalleled gravimetric (481 F g−1) and outstanding volumetric capacitance (212 F cm−3) in an aqueous electrolyte. More importantly, the assembled symmetrical supercapacitor delivers not only high gravimetric (25.7 Wh kg−1 based on total mass of electroactive materials) but also high volumetric energy densities (11.3 Wh L−1) in an aqueous electrolyte. Furthermore, the assembled asymmetric supercapacitor yields a maximum energy density up to 88 Wh kg−1, which is, to the best of our knowledge, the highest value so far reported for carbon//MnO2 asymmetric supercapacitors in aqueous electrolytes. Therefore, this novel carbon material holds great promise for potential applications in energy‐related technological fields.
Prevalence of adiposity and associated cardiometabolic risk factors in the samoan genome‐wide association study
Authors: Hawley Nicola L. , Minster Ryan L. , Weeks Daniel E. , Viali Satupaitea , Reupena Muagututia Sefuiva , Sun Guangyun , Cheng Hong , Deka Ranjan , Mcgarvey Stephen T.
Published: May 2014

Objective

To describe the prevalence of obesity‐related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and associated risk factors in a sample of Samoan adults studied in 2010 as part of a genome‐wide assocation study (GWAS) for obesity related traits.

Methods

Anthropometric and biochemical data collected from n = 3,475 participants (n = 1,437 male; n = 2,038 female) aged 24.5 to <65 years were used to describe the prevalence of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia within the study sample. One way analysis of variance, χ2 tests, and binary logistic regression were used to identify differences in disease and risk factor prevalence by 10‐year age group, gender, or by census region of residence.

Results

Obesity was highly prevalent among the study sample; 64.6% of females and 41.2% of males were obese according to Polynesian cutoffs (BMI ≥ 32 kg/m2). Females were less likely than males to have hypertension (31.7% vs. 36.7%) but equally likely to have diabetes (17.8% vs. 16.4%). With the exception of obesity and low HDL‐cholesterol in females only, there were significant differences in the prevalence of all NCDs and associated risk factors by age group, with the oldest age group (55 to <65 years) most affected. In both sexes, residents of the Apia Urban Area were at significantly greater risk of obesity, diabetes, low HDL‐cholesterol, and high triglycerides than residents of the more rural Savaii region.

Conclusions

The phenotypic characteristics of this sample provide evidence of a continuation of previously reported temporal trends toward obesity and its associated disorders. Attention must be paid to the critical NCD situation in Samoa. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 26:491–501, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ursprung der Selektivität und Aktivität von Ru‐Clusterkatalysatoren für die Brennstoffzellen‐Prozessgasreinigung: ein Gasphasenansatz
Authors: Lang Sandra M. , Bernhardt Thorsten M. , Krstić Marjan , Bonačić‐Koutecký Vlasta
Published: May 2014

Rutheniumcluster Run+ (n=2–6) in der Gasphase werden als Modellsysteme verwendet, um den Ursprung der außergewöhnlichen Eigenschaften trägerfixierter subnanometergroßer Rutheniumpartikel bei der katalytischen CO‐Methanisierung mit Bezug zur Wasserstoff‐Prozessgasreinigung für hochentwickelte Brennstoffzellenanwendungen aufzudecken. Mithilfe von Ionenfallen‐Massenspektrometrie und Ab‐initio‐Dichtfunktionalrechnungen werden folgende Eigenschaften dieser Cluster ausgemacht, die die Selektivität und katalytische Aktivität bestimmen: hohe Reaktivität gegenüber CO bei gleichzeitiger Inertheit gegenüber CO2; Förderung der kooperativ verstärkten H2‐Koadsorption und ‐Dissozation auf den zuvor gebildeten Rutheniumcarbonylclustern (d. h., es findet keine CO‐Vergiftung statt); die Gegenwart von Ru‐Atomplätzen mit einer niedrigen Zahl von Metall‐Metall‐Bindungen, die besonders aktiv für die H2‐Koadsorption und ‐Aktivierung sind. Weiterhin liefern Rechnungen mechanistische Einblicke in die CO‐Methanisierung und decken einen Reaktionsweg auf, der die Bildung einer Formyl‐artigen Zwischenstufe umfasst.
Planung und Bau von Liegestellen am Ober‐ und Mittelrhein
Authors: Melzer Judith , Dormann Michael , Herbort Johannes
Published: May 2014

Der Rhein ist die mit Abstand bedeutendste Binnenwasserstraße in Deutschland. Zur Gewährleistung der Sicherheit und Leichtigkeit der Rheinschifffahrt sind entsprechende Rahmenbedingungen für den durchgehenden und ruhenden Verkehr zu schaffen. Aufgrund der Veränderung der Flottenstruktur und des Wegfalls von früheren Liegestellen stehen für die Rheinschiffer heute keine ausreichenden Liegemöglichkeiten mehr zur Verfügung. Zur Verbesserung der Situation am Ober‐ und Mittelrhein plant die Wasser‐ und Schifffahrtsverwaltung des Bundes den Bau von insgesamt 14 Liegestellen für jeweils zwei bis zwölf Schiffe auf einer Strecke von ca. 290 km zwischen Iffezheim und Brohl. Durch die Realisierung der ersten Maßnahmen in Iffezheim, Sondernheim und Koblenz‐Wallersheim konnte bereits eine Verbesserung der Situation erreicht werden, die Umsetzung der Planungen an den elf weiteren Standorten wird in den nächsten Jahren folgen.

Planning and construction of berths at the Upper and Middle Rhine. Infrastructure's improvement for stationary ship traffic

The Rhine represents Germany's most important inland waterway by far. In order to ensure a safe and smooth ship traffic it is essential to create suitable basic conditions for the stationary ship traffic as well as for the active ship traffic. Insufficient berths are available nowadays, due to Rhine shipping's evolution in fleet structure. Furthermore there is a lack of former berths. The Federal Water and Shipping Administration is planning new constructions as well as the reconstruction of further and existing berths. Thus, 14 berths emerge at the Upper and Middle Rhine. Each one has a capacity for 2 until 12 ships and is located on a route of 290 km between Iffezheim and Brohl. Initial improvement was already achieved by the construction of berths in Iffezheim, Sondernheim and Koblenz‐Wallersheim. Further 11 construction projects will follow within the next years.