bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dyslexia
Authors: Snowling Margaret J.
Published: January 2016

Without the ability to read fluently with comprehension there is a downward spiral of poor educational achievement and career prospects. Dyslexia is therefore a major problem for society and a key question is whether it is possible to intervene early to ameliorate its impact. Studies following the development of children at family-risk of dyslexia reveal that it is associated with language delays and speech difficulties in the pre-school years before reading instruction begins. Literacy outcomes for children depend not only on the risk factors that predispose to reading difficulties but also on protective factors which mitigate the risk. Together current evidence places dyslexia on a continuum with other language learning impairments.
La prehistoria y la historia del Dcho. Constitucional europeo (ensayo de paralelismo con el decurso del Dcho. Constitucional nacional)
Authors: Jimena Quesada Luis , Tajadura Tejada Javier
Published: January 2016

Resumen:Los autores mantienen que la historia reciente de la integración europea tras las Segunda Guerra Mundial ha estado marcada, de manera análoga a como ha sucedido durante la “prehistoria” europea, por proyectos de unidad que perseguían un pacto social a nivel continental en donde la estabilidad económica (incluso monetaria) y política debían significar la consecución de la paz. Desde esta perspectiva, aunque los proyectos anteriores al segundo conflicto bélico no estuvieran fundados en intentos pacíficos y vías jurídicas (al contrario que la actual Unión Europea, con origen en la propuesta pacífica de la Declaración Schuman de 1950 y los Tratados Constitutivos de las Comunidades Europeas), las experiencias “preconstitucionales” europeas proporcionan elementos de interés para comprender mejor la debilidad del actual proyecto constitucional europeo. En efecto, el ensayo concluye que las virtudes de la idea de la “Europa a varias velocidades” (para hacer compatible la clásica dinámica de la ampliación y de la profundización) son todavía menos importantes que las grandes dificultades derivadas de las asimetrías de la Constitución económica (gobernanza económica y moneda única) y otros aspectos sustanciales de la “Constitución europea” (tanto en el plano institucional como en el terreno de los derechos fundamentales).Abstract:The authors hold that the recent history of European integration after the Second World War has been marked, similarly to what it happened during the European “prehistory”, by projects of unity pursuing a social pact at continental level where economic (including monetary) and political stability should mean the consolidation of peace. From this perspective, although the projects preceding the second war consisted of the lack of both peaceful attempts and legal basis (as opposed to the current European Union arising from the peaceful proposal submitted by the Schuman Declaration of 1950 as well as the founding Treaties of the European Communities), European “pre-constitutional” experiences provide interesting elements to better understand the weakness of the current European constitutional project. Indeed, the essay concludes that the virtues of the idea of “multi-speed Europe” (to reconciling the classical dynamics of enlargement and deepening) are still less important than the great difficulties caused by asymmetries deriving from the economic Constitution (economic governance and common currency) and other substantial aspects of the “European Constitution” (both at the institutional level and in the field of fundamental rights).
Positive Law vs. Good Intentions: The Legality of the Comcast-Time Warner Cable Merger
Authors: Tune Harrison
Published: January 2016

In 2014, a merger proposal was submitted to the U.S. Department of Justice by Comcast Corporation and Time Warner Cable. The proposed merger has incited popular opposition due to concerns that it would lead to the applicants’ monopolistic control over the internet distribution market. Consequently, appeals have been made in favor of enforcement of antitrust laws in this case. While it may be symptomatic of a need for the laws to change, there is currently no legal foundation for the opposition, and it would be fully legal for the Department of Justice to support the merger. In any case, either verdict will lead to a profound legal precedent.
Muslim Identity in 21st Century America: Ayad Akhtar's Works as Autobiography
Authors: Asif Saljooq
Published: January 2016

Recipient of the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Ayad Akhtar has been lauded as the de facto voice of the American Muslim in theatre and literature. Akhtar, A Pakistani American, claims that all of his works are inspired by his life and personal experiences; they are, he admits, a form of autobiography. In a post-9/11 world, however, where the position of Muslims in the United States has become increasingly scrutinized, Akhtar’s works purposely play upon American fears and anxiety in regard to Islam. Indeed, Akhtar’s works rely heavily on Muslim stereotypes in order to unsettle American audiences and gain artistic recognition. By doing so, Akhtar not only continues the clichéd depiction of Muslims in American media, but also upholds Stephen Spender’s theory on autobiography: that the perspective of the autobiographer, his Self, is forever forced to submit to that of society, the Other.
Asian Americans and Mental Health: Cultural Barriers to Effective Treatment
Authors: Speller Heather K.
Published: January 2016

Disparities in mental health care for racial minorities remains a serious and very real problem calling for immediate attention. The 2001 report of the Surgeon General affirmed that ethnic and racial minorities have less access to and availability of mental health services, and are subsequently less likely to receive needed mental health services. This paper examines a range of issues regarding Asian American mental health. It presents the practical and cultural barriers that members of this ethnic group confront when seeking mental health care and explains how cultural differences sometimes result in misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment. It also explores ways that the American mental health care system can improve to accommodate diverse ethnic groups.
A Wealth of Evidence: The Identity of the Man Commemorated at Sutton Hoo
Authors: Phillips Dmitri
Published: January 2016

The history of England did not begin with the Industrial Revolution and not everything supposed about the Anglo-Saxons reduces to the myth of King Arthur and the Round Table. Contrary to commonly held beliefs, the Dark Ages of the North were full of splendor and brilliance; the only thing dark about them is their enshrouded history, but that only makes them all the more fascinating. The great burial mound at Sutton Hoo in East Anglia, discovered just before World War II, shines as one of the most grandiose sepulchers in history, yet the identity of its occupant remains a mystery. Was it a wealthy merchant, a warrior from overseas, or a great king? This paper gathers, presents, and scrutinizes the evidence and arguments from ancient records, opulate grave-goods, and contemporary investigations in an attempt to determine the most likely candidate for the individual interred in Mound 1 at Sutton Hoo.
The Morality Test: An Ancient Perspective on Personal Virtue and Patriotism in Public Life
Authors: Mooney Timothy
Published: January 2016

This paper follows the life of Alcibiades of Athens, the brilliantly successful general in the Peloponnesian War, whose dissolute private life and lack of patriotism made him a sinister figure in Athens. Having neither lived a virtuous life nor made it clear that he would subordinate his interest to the city, Alcibiades failed to gain the trust of the democratic populace of Athens. When suspicious citizens recaleld him from the battlefield, Alcibiades turned traitor and fought for Sparta, effectively ruining Athens' chances for victory. Given this example, this paper argues that the private lives of public figures are relevant to their positions as leaders of the state. The ability for a community to trust and respect its leaders is of paramount importance and must be protected by the appointment of virtuous and patriotic leaders to public positions.
The "Oklahoma City Plunder": Turner's Social Drama and Team Relocation
Authors: Morris Matthew
Published: January 2016

This essay frames the phenomenon of team relocation as a social drama defined by anthropologist Victor Turner. To support this view I examined the controversy surrounding the Seattle Supersonics' move to Oklahoma City, which occurred over a two-year period beginning in 2006 and ending in 2008. I provide a context for team relocation in the four major professional sports leagues of the United States and Canada as well as the specific context of the Supersonics controversy. I then analyze the situation as a social drama occuring between two parties: city officials and team owners. The media's role as an intermediary and the fan's role as an ibserver are also explored. I conclude briefly noting the impact of team relocation on the fans.
Translation in the Culture War for Hawaii: The Arabian Nights in Nineteenth-Century Hawaiian Newspapers
Authors: Hughes Alyssa
Published: January 2016

This article discusses the motivations behind the translations of The Arabian Nights in two competing nineteenth-century Hawaiian-language newspapers: Ka Hoku Pakipika and Ka Nupepa Kuokoa. Translations of The Arabian Nights serve as an epicenter of cultural conflict in the war for societal and political dominance of the Hawaiian Islands on the eve of their annexation to the United States. Furthermore, the role of translation itsel in the formation of cultural identities is discussed, focusing on the role of the translations of The Arabian Nights in the war for cultural hegemony in nineteenth-century Hawaii.
Iran and the Nixon Doctrine: American Arms and the Rise and Fall of the Shah
Authors: Guittard Alex
Published: January 2016

The 1969 Nixon Doctrine-which called for empowering American allies in order to reduce their dependence on the United States for security-has long been tied to President Nixon's aim of reducig the American military presence in Vietnam. However, notes from Nixon's 1967 meeting with the Shah of Iran suggest that the monarch heavily influenced foreign policy pursued by the future president. The doctrine also allowed the Shah to fulfill his regional political ambitions by facilitating the sale of billions of dollars worth of the most sophisticated American weaponry to Iran. However, as oil prices began to drop in the late 1970s, the Shah's defense spending began to have an increasingly adverse effect on the Iranian economy, ultimately contributing to the overthrow of the Pahlavi dynasty.
Mujeres violentas y/o delincuentes: una visión desde la perspectiva biopsicosocial
Authors: Soldino Virginia , Romero-Martínez Ángel , Moya-Albiol Luis
Published: January 2016

Violence and/or delinquency in women have been masked to some extent by society. Thus, the main goal of this work is to deeply analyse the published works on these matters, in order to understand this phenomenon from a neurobiological perspective. Firstly, the theory of the cycle of violence as a facilitating mechanism of violence in women will be analysed, with a special emphasis on neuroanatomical correlates. Subsequently, the relation between drug consumption and violence in women will be explained. Finally, the main biological correlates known as facilitating mechanisms of violence in women will be exhaustively described. The main risk factors for the facilitation of violence and/or delinquency in women are mistreatment experiences during childhood and drug consumption. Furthermore, high levels of cortisol and testosterone and low levels of serotonin and oxytocin would be correlates of that violence. On the other hand, two types of aggressors have been described according to the response of the Autonomic Nervous System: the premeditated ones, who present a low reactivity, and the impulsive ones, who present a psychophysiological hyper-reactivity. As it is a complex and insufficiently studied issue, increasing the corpus of knowledge in this topic is necessary with the objective of developing effective programmes of treatment and/or prevention.
Le silence et le procès civil
Authors: Bernigaud Sylvie
Published: January 2016

Qu’il soit ou non le reflet d’une stratégie procédurale, le silence est valorisé lorsqu’il s’inscrit dans une optique respectueuse des droits de la défense et du principe du contradictoire. Le Code de procédure civile lui attribue une valeur fonctionnelle qui dépend à la fois de la maîtrise des parties sur le déroulement du procès et de la responsabilité du juge en matière juridictionnelle, concernant la régulation de l’instance. Accepté, toléré ou réprouvé, le silence n’est pas un, mais s’exprime de différentes manières dans le cadre du procès civil, ce qui rend aléatoire toute tentative d’intégration dans telle ou telle catégorie juridique. Il n’est pas pour autant l’expression d’une quelconque anarchie procédurale, la loi encadrant ses différentes manifestations et les effets juridiques qu’elles produisent.
La « quérulence processive » : vacarme, silence ou parole ?
Authors: Lévy Benjamin
Published: January 2016

L’auteur aborde la question de la quérulence processive en s’appuyant sur le témoignage de plusieurs sujets ayant été qualifiés de quérulents. En leur donnant la parole, il essaie de déterminer en quoi le bruit qu’ils causent répond au silence du droit à leur égard et cherche à mieux comprendre les enjeux de leurs requêtes incessantes. Enfin, il tente de déterminer s’il est possible de changer le vacarme de leurs multiples revendications en un discours auquel le droit serait susceptible de répondre.
Liens entre tracas de la vie quotidienne à l’âge scolaire et symptômes dépressifs : apports des échelles ISQVE©
Authors: Lemétayer Fabienne , Lanfranchi Jean-Baptiste
Published: January 2016

La présente étude a pour objectif d’identifier les domaines de vie de l’Inventaire systémique de qualité de vie pour enfants (ISQVE©) (Missotten, Étienne et Dupuis, 2007) les plus en mesure de rendre compte des tracas quotidiens à l’âge scolaire. Elle a également pour but de vérifier la valeur prédictive de ces tracas sur la santé psychologique des enfants, un an après une première évaluation. Dans cette perspective, 106 enfants scolarisés en milieu scolaire régulier, âgés de 8 à 12 ans, ont répondu à deux questionnaires : l’ISQVE© et le CDI. Tous ont été rencontrés lors de deux entretiens menés à un an d’intervalle (T1 et T2). Les analyses, menées avec l’approche PLS-PM, ont permis de retenir à chaque entretien sept domaines de vie perçus comme difficiles d’accès par les enfants sur les 20 domaines de vie évalués à l’aide de l’ISQVE©. Ces analyses ont également permis de montrer l’effet prédicteur de certaines difficultés ressenties sur un intervalle d’un an. De même, ces difficultés perçues ont permis de prédire des symptômes dépressifs de manière immédiate (sur une même période d’évaluation), mais pas sur un intervalle d’un an. La discussion porte sur l’intérêt et l’importance d’examiner plus attentivement les domaines de vie perçus comme difficiles d’accès par les enfants d’âge scolaire afin de prévenir les risques de symptômes dépressifs.
Characterisation of the human uterine microbiome in non-pregnant women through deep sequencing of the V1-2 region of the 16S rRNA gene
Authors: Verstraelen Hans , Vilchez-Vargas Ramiro , Desimpel Fabian , Jauregui Ruy , Vankeirsbilck Nele , Weyers Steven , Verhelst Rita , De Sutter Petra , Pieper Dietmar H. , Van De Wiele Tom
Published: January 2016

Background.It is widely assumed that the uterine cavity in non-pregnant women is physiologically sterile, also as a premise to the long-held view that human infants develop in a sterile uterine environment, though likely reflecting under-appraisal of the extent of the human bacterial metacommunity. In an exploratory study, we aimed to investigate the putative presence of a uterine microbiome in a selected series of non-pregnant women through deep sequencing of the V1-2 hypervariable region of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene.

Methods.Nineteen women with various reproductive conditions, including subfertility, scheduled for hysteroscopy and not showing uterine anomalies were recruited. Subjects were highly diverse with regard to demographic and medical history and included nulliparous and parous women. Endometrial tissue and mucus harvesting was performed by use of a transcervical device designed to obtain endometrial biopsy, while avoiding cervicovaginal contamination. Bacteria were targeted by use of a barcoded Illumina MiSeq paired-end sequencing method targeting the 16S rRNA gene V1-2 region, yielding an average of 41,194 reads per sample after quality filtering. Taxonomic annotation was pursued by comparison with sequences available through the Ribosomal Database Project and the NCBI database.

Results.Out of 183 unique 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequences, 15 phylotypes were present in all samples. In some 90% of the women included, community architecture was fairly similar inasmuchB. xylanisolvens,B. thetaiotaomicron,B. fragilisand an undeterminedPelomonastaxon constituted over one third of the endometrial bacterial community. On the singular phylotype level, six women showed predominance ofL. crispatusorL. inersin the presence of theBacteroidescore. Two endometrial communities were highly dissimilar, largely lacking theBacteroidescore, one dominated byL. crispatusand another consisting of a highly diverse community, includingPrevotellaspp.,Atopobium vaginae, andMobiluncus curtisii.

Discussion.Our findings are, albeit not necessarily generalizable, consistent with the presence of a unique microbiota dominated byBacteroidesresiding on the endometrium of the human non-pregnant uterus. The transcervical sampling approach may be influenced to an unknown extent by endocervical microbiota, which remain uncharacterised, and therefore warrants further validation. Nonetheless, consistent with our understanding of the human microbiome, the uterine microbiota are likely to have a previously unrecognized role in uterine physiology and human reproduction. Further study is therefore warranted to document community ecology and dynamics of the uterine microbiota, as well as the role of the uterine microbiome in health and disease.
Factors Contributing to the Success of Ultrasound‐Guided Native Renal Biopsy
Authors: Kriegshauser J. Scott , Patel Maitray D. , Young Scott W. , Chen Frederick , Eversman William G. , Chang Yu-Hui H. , Smith Maxwell
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors contributing to the success of ultrasound‐guided native renal biopsy.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients who had ultrasound‐guided native renal biopsy at our institution over a 10‐year period. We reviewed the imaging and electronic medical records to collect demographic information and clinical data, including pathologic results. Biopsy samples were categorized and compared on the basis of the number of glomeruli (optimal [≥20] versus suboptimal [<20]) and the pathologist's reported diagnostic confidence (high confidence versus limited confidence). Procedure details, including the operator and the use of the cortical tangential approach, were also obtained.

Results

For 282 patients with biopsies using 18‐gauge needles, the number of passes made was significantly higher for optimal (P < .001) and high‐confidence (P < .001) specimens than for suboptimal and limited‐confidence specimens. The cortical tangential approach was used more frequently for optimal (P< .001) and high‐confidence (P = .01) specimens than for suboptimal and limited‐confidence specimens. Radiologists routinely doing ultrasound‐guided procedures of all types had significantly more optimal (P= .01) and high‐confidence (P= .001) specimens than radiologists with limited ultrasound experience. The distance to the kidney, cortical thickness, glomerular filtration rate, and body mass index were not significant factors.

Conclusions

The ultrasound‐guided procedural experience of the operator, taking more than 1 specimen, and the use of the cortical tangential approach significantly improved the pathologic material obtained during native renal biopsies.
p53 as guardian of the mitochondrial genome
Authors: Park Ji‐Hoon , Zhuang Jie , Li Jie , Hwang Paul M.
Published: January 2016

Participating in the repair of nuclear DNA is one mechanism by which p53 suppresses tumorigenesis, but there is growing evidence that p53 also helps maintain the mitochondrial genome through its translocation into mitochondria and interactions with mtDNA repair proteins. Because of the susceptibility of mtDNA to oxidative damage and replication errors, it is vital to protect mtDNA genomic stability to preserve health and fitness. Here, we focus on reviewing the evidence for the involvement of p53 in maintaining the integrity of mtDNA through its activities in both the nucleus and the mitochondria.
Determination of the shape and orientation of nonlinear magnetic structures measured by Cluster spacecraft in the vicinity of the bow shock
Authors: Grzesiak Marcin , Przepiórka Dorota , Strumik Marek , Stasiewicz Krzysztof
Published: January 2016

We present a new method of determination of the size and the orientation of nonlinear electromagnetic structures observed in space plasmas. The method is based on the analysis of covariance matrix of gradients of fields estimated from multipoint spacecraft measurements. It does not make use of Taylor hypothesis and gives fully three‐dimensional estimates without assuming any symmetries of the structures. The method has been tested first on synthetic data and then applied to four‐point Cluster spacecraft measurements to determine geometrical properties of nonlinear electromagnetic structures observed in the vicinity of the bow shock. These structures comprise ULF waves that steepen to form shocklets (short large‐amplitude magnetic structures) in the foreshock region and large‐amplitude mirror mode structures observed in the magnetosheath downstream of the bow shock. In the case of foreshock ULF waves we find the three‐axis structure sizes of 1000, 3000, and 7000 km oriented to the ambient field at angles of 75, 30, and 60°, respectively. For the mirror modes our results give sizes of 150, 300, and 700 km oriented at angles close to the perpendicular direction for the shortest and middle scales and parallel orientation for the longest scale. The estimated geometry and properties of analyzed nonlinear structures follow, in general, those obtained previously.
Global equatorial plasma bubble occurrence during the 2015 St. Patrick's Day storm
Authors: Carter B. A. , Yizengaw E. , Pradipta R. , Retterer J. M. , Groves K. , Valladares C. , Caton R. , Bridgwood C. , Norman R. , Zhang K.
Published: January 2016

An analysis of the occurrence of equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) around the world during the 2015 St. Patrick's Day geomagnetic storm is presented. A network of 12 Global Positioning System receivers spanning from South America to Southeast Asia was used, in addition to colocated VHF receivers at three stations and four nearby ionosondes. The suppression of postsunset EPBs was observed across most longitudes over 2 days. The EPB observations were compared to calculations of the linear Rayleigh‐Taylor growth rate using coupled thermosphere‐ionosphere modeling, which successfully modeled the transition of favorable EPB growth from postsunset to postmidnight hours during the storm. The mechanisms behind the growth of postmidnight EPBs during this storm were investigated. While the latter stages of postmidnight EPB growth were found to be dominated by disturbance dynamo effects, the initial stages of postmidnight EPB growth close to local midnight were found to be controlled by the higher altitudes of the plasma (i.e., the gravity term). Modeling and observations revealed that during the storm the ionospheric plasma was redistributed to higher altitudes in the low‐latitude region, which made the plasma more susceptible to Rayleigh‐Taylor growth prior to the dominance of the disturbance dynamo in the eventual generation of postmidnight EPBs.
Tracking the attenuation and nonbreaking dissipation of swells using altimeters
Authors: Jiang Haoyu , Stopa Justin E. , Wang He , Husson Romain , Mouche Alexis , Chapron Bertrand , Chen Ge
Published: January 2016

A method for systematically tracking swells across oceanic basins is developed by taking advantage of high‐quality data from space‐borne altimeters and wave model output. The evolution of swells is observed over large distances based on 202 swell events with periods ranging from 12 to 18 s. An empirical attenuation rate of swell energy of about 4 × 10−7 m−1 is estimated using these observations, and the nonbreaking energy dissipation rates of swells far away from their generating areas are also estimated using a point source model. The resulting acceptance range of nonbreaking dissipation rates is −2.5 to 5.0 × 10−7 m−1, which corresponds to a dissipation e‐folding scales of at least 2000 km for steep swells, to almost infinite for small‐amplitude swells. These resulting rates are consistent with previous studies using in‐situ and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) observations. The frequency dispersion and angular spreading effects during swell propagation are discussed by comparing the results with other studies, demonstrating that they are the two dominant processes for swell height attenuation, especially in the near field. The resulting dissipation rates from these observations can be used as a reference for ocean engineering and wave modeling, and for related studies such as air‐sea and wind‐wave‐turbulence interactions.
Identification of contaminant source architectures—A statistical inversion that emulates multiphase physics in a computationally practicable manner
Authors: Koch J. , Nowak W.
Published: January 2016

The goal of this work is to improve the inference of nonaqueous‐phase contaminated source zone architectures (CSA) from field data. We follow the idea that a physically motivated model for CSA formation helps in this inference by providing relevant relationships between observables and the unknown CSA. Typical multiphase models are computationally too expensive to be applied for inverse modeling; thus, state‐of‐the‐art CSA identification techniques do not yet use physically based CSA formation models. To overcome this shortcoming, we apply a stochastic multiphase model with reduced computational effort that can be used to generate a large ensemble of possible CSA realizations. Further, we apply a reverse transport formulation in order to accelerate the inversion of transport‐related data such as downgradient aqueous‐phase concentrations. We combine these approaches within an inverse Bayesian methodology for joint inversion of CSA and aquifer parameters. Because we use multiphase physics to constrain and inform the inversion, (1) only physically meaningful CSAs are inferred; (2) each conditional realization is statistically meaningful; (3) we obtain physically meaningful spatial dependencies for interpolation and extrapolation of point‐like observations between the different involved unknowns and observables, and (4) dependencies far beyond simple correlation; (5) the inversion yields meaningful uncertainty bounds. We illustrate our concept by inferring three‐dimensional probability distributions of DNAPL residence, contaminant mass discharge, and of other CSA characteristics. In the inference example, we use synthetic numerical data on permeability, DNAPL saturation and downgradient aqueous‐phase concentration, and we substantiate our claims about the advantages of emulating a multiphase flow model with reduced computational requirement in the inversion.
On the emergence of diel solute signals in flowing waters
Authors: Hensley Robert T. , Cohen Matthew J.
Published: January 2016

Biota imprint their stoichiometry on relative rates of elemental cycling in the environment. Despite this coupling, producer‐driven diel solute variation in rivers and streams is more apparent for some solutes (e.g., dissolved oxygen—DO) than others (e.g., nitrate—
). We hypothesized that these differences arise from atmospheric equilibration, with signals emerging and evolving differently for gaseous and nongaseous solutes. Measurements of DO and NO3 in a spring‐fed river, where constant inputs isolate in‐stream processing, support this hypothesis, as do results from reactive transport modeling of river solute dynamics. Atmospheric equilibration dramatically shortens the benthic footprint over which signals integrate, facilitating emergence of diel DO signals in response to in‐stream metabolism. In contrast, upstream influences persist much further downstream for nongaseous solutes, confounding and potentially obscuring the diel signals from in‐stream assimilatory processing. Isolating diel NO3 signals from in‐stream processing requires a two‐station approach wherein metabolic impacts on solute variation are measured by difference between upstream and downstream sensors. Notably, two‐station inference improves markedly when hydraulic controls on signal propagation such as dispersion and storage are explicitly considered. We conclude that the absence of diel signals at a single station for nongaseous solutes such as
cannot be interpreted as lack of autotroph demand or element coupling. As advances in sensors enable the acquisition of an increasingly rich array of solute signals, controlling for differences in the emergence and downstream evolution of gaseous versus nongaseous solutes will dramatically improve inferences regarding the timing and magnitude of coupled elemental processing.
High expression of Fatty Acid‐Binding Protein 5 promotes cell growth and metastatic potential of colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Kawaguchi Koichiro , Senga Shogo , Kubota Chiaki , Kawamura Yuki , Ke Youqiang , Fujii Hiroshi
Published: January 2016

Fatty acid‐binding proteins (FABPs) are responsible for binding and storing hydrophobic ligands such as long‐chain fatty acids, and for transporting these ligands to the appropriate compartments within the cell. The present study demonstrates that the FABP5 gene is upregulated in colorectal cancer cells compared to normal colon cells in a manner that correlates with disease stage and that FABP5 significantly promotes colorectal cancer cell growth and metastatic potential. Thus, FABP5 might be a promising prognostic or therapeutic biomarker candidate in human colorectal cancer.
Rapamycin prevents acute dendritic injury following seizures
Authors: Guo Dongjun , Zeng Linghui , Zou Jia , Chen Linglin , Rensing Nicholas , Wong Michael
Published: January 2016

Objective

Seizures cause acute structural changes in dendrites, which may contribute to cognitive deficits that occur in epilepsy patients. Disruption of the actin cytoskeleton of dendrites likely mediates the structural changes following seizures, but the upstream signaling mechanisms activated by synchronized physiological activity to cause seizure‐induced dendritic injury are not known. In this study, we test the hypothesis that the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway triggers structural changes in dendrites in response to seizures.

Methods

In vivo multiphoton imaging was performed in transgenic mice expressing green fluorescent protein in cortical neurons. The effect of rapamycin pre‐ and posttreatment was tested on kainate‐induced dendritic injury and cofilin‐mediated actin depolymerization.

Results

Kainate‐induced seizures caused acute activation of mTORC1 activity, which was prevented by the mTORC1 inhibitor, rapamycin. Rapamycin pretreatment, and to a lesser degree, posttreatment attenuated acute seizure‐induced dendritic injury and correspondingly decreased LIM kinase and cofilin‐mediated depolymerization of actin.

Interpretation

The mTORC1 pathway mediates seizure‐induced dendritic injury via depolymerization of actin. These findings have important mechanistic and translational applications for management of seizure‐induced brain injury.
Trajectories of Physical Activity Over Two Years in Persons With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Demmelmaier Ingrid , Dufour Alyssa B. , Nordgren Birgitta , Opava Christina H.
Published: January 2016

Objective

To identify and describe different trajectories of physical activity over 2 years and to identify baseline predictors for each trajectory within a large cohort of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

The sample included 2,752 people ages 18–75 years and independent in daily living. Data on sociodemographic, disease‐related, and psychosocial variables and physical activity (total weekly hours of vigorously/moderately intense activity and walking) were collected from registers and by questionnaires at baseline, and at 14 and 26 months. K‐means cluster analysis was used to identify different physical activity trajectories. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify predictors of trajectory membership.

Results

Three trajectories were identified: 1 stable high (n = 272; with an average of 25 hours of physical activity/week), 1 decreasing (n = 564; changing from 22 to 8 hours), and 1 stable low (n = 1,916; with an average of 3 hours). Predictors of the stable high trajectory versus the other 2 were male sex and already established physical activity at baseline. Predictors of the stable high trajectory versus decreasing trajectory were lower age and less social support for exercise, while predictors of stable high versus the stable low trajectory were less activity limitation and higher exercise self‐efficacy.

Conclusion

The results indicate that distinct trajectories of physical activity over 2 years in people with RA exist, and that stable, high physical activity is mainly predicted by male sex and already established physical activity at baseline. Additional predictors, amenable to change, include activity limitation, social support, and self‐efficacy for exercise, suggesting a wide perspective on maintained physical activity in RA.
Chiral Biomaterials: From Molecular Design to Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Green David W. , Lee Jong‐Min , Kim Eun‐Jung , Lee Dong‐Joon , Jung Han‐Sung
Published: January 2016

Chirality is integral to biological complexity. Chiral biomolecules are central to all fundamental recognition, conformational and replication functions in biological systems. Chirality also exists in living cells and higher order biological structures. Less is known about the cellular interactions with chirality, although most living cells are imprinted with chiral‐based signatures. The harnessing of molecular, supramolecular, and structural chirality has been largely overlooked in biomaterials chemistry and the engineering of biological structures for regenerative medicine. Since chirality is a fundamental element of biological architecture its implementation in materials biomimicry is a necessity for mechanical, structural, and biological reasons. Take the latter, new investigations show the direct influence of biomimetic chiral patterning and chiral‐based architecture on stem cell activities and behavior. Biomimetic integration of chirality signatures into medical biomaterials provides a new capability to maximize biological function and compatibility especially for morphogenesis and regeneration.
Effects of Molecular Orientation in Acceptor–Donor Interfaces between Pentacene and C60 and Diels–Alder Adduct Formation at the Molecular Interface
Authors: Breuer Tobias , Karthäuser Andrea , Witte Gregor
Published: January 2016

Interfaces between pentacene and Buckminster‐fullerene (C60) have attracted interest due to their application as oligomeric model system for organic solar cells. As the actual device characteristics in such implementations are crucially controlled by the interface structure, detailed investigations of this interface on a molecular level are mandatory. In this study, the influence of the orientation of the pentacene molecules in highly ordered crystalline bottom layers on the characteristics of such internal interfaces is analyzed. It has been shown that the interface structure is driven by temperature‐controlled diffusion of C60 molecules to the pentacene step edges in the case of uprightly oriented pentacene. For lying pentacene in the bottom layer, no step‐edge decoration is observed while the wetting of the pentacene layer is enhanced. Furthermore, the stability of the interface against intercalation and reorientation has been analyzed by means of NEXAFS spectroscopy, showing that the orientation of the pentacene molecules at the interface remains unchanged. Instead, strong indication for chemical modification of the molecular entities by the formation of Diels–Alder adducts between C60 and pentacene is observed. Finally, it is shown that C60 forms crystalline islands in thicker films only on top of uprightly oriented pentacene while rather amorphous films are formed on lying pentacene.
Local Probing of Ferroelectric and Ferroelastic Switching through Stress‐Mediated Piezoelectric Spectroscopy
Authors: Edwards David , Brewer Steven , Cao Ye , Jesse Stephen , Chen Long‐Qing , Kalinin Sergei V. , Kumar Amit , Bassiri‐Gharb Nazanin
Published: January 2016

Strain effects have a significant role in mediating classic ferroelectric behavior such as polarization switching and domain wall dynamics. These effects are of critical relevance if the ferroelectric order parameter is coupled to strain and is therefore, also ferroelastic. Here, switching spectroscopy piezoresponse force microscopy (SS‐PFM) is combined with control of applied tip pressure to exert direct control over the ferroelastic and ferroelectric switching events, a modality otherwise unattainable in traditional PFM. As a proof of concept, stress‐mediated SS‐PFM is applied toward the study of polarization switching events in a lead zirconate titanate thin film, with a composition near the morphotropic phase boundary with co‐existing rhombohedral and tetragonal phases. Under increasing applied pressure, shape modification of local hysteresis loops is observed, consistent with a reduction in the ferroelastic domain variants under increased pressure. These experimental results are further validated by phase field simulations. The technique can be expanded to explore more complex electromechanical responses under applied local pressure, such as probing ferroelectric and ferroelastic piezoelectric nonlinearity as a function of applied pressure, and electro‐chemo‐mechanical response through electrochemical strain microscopy.
Solvent Engineering Boosts the Efficiency of Paintable Carbon‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells to Beyond 14%
Authors: Chen Haining , Wei Zhanhua , He Hexiang , Zheng Xiaoli , Wong Kam Sing , Yang Shihe
Published: January 2016

Carbon‐based hole transport material (HTM)‐free perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have shown much promise for practical applications because of their high stability and low cost. However, the efficiencies of this kind of PSCs are still relatively low, especially for the simplest paintable carbon‐based PSCs, in comparison with the organic HTM‐based PSCs. This can be imputed to the perovskite deposition methods that are not very suitable for this kind of devices. A solvent engineering strategy based on two‐step sequential method is exploited to prepare a high‐quality perovskite layer for the paintable carbon‐based PSCs in which the solvent for CH3NH3I (MAI) solution at the second step is changed from isopropanol (IPA) to a mixed solvent of IPA/Cyclohexane (CYHEX). This mixed solvent not only accelerates the conversion of PbI2 to CH3NH3PbI3 but also suppresses the Ostwald ripening process resulting in a high‐quality perovskite layer, e.g., pure phase, even surface, and compact capping layer. The paintable carbon‐based PSCs fabricated from IPA/CYHEX solvent exhibits a considerable enhancement in photovoltaic performance and performance reproducibility in comparison with that from pure IPA, especially on fill factor (FF), owing mainly to the better contact of perovskite/carbon interface, lower trap density in perovskite, higher light absorption ability, and faster charge transport of perovskite layer. As a result, the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 14.38% is obtained, which is a record value for carbon‐based HTM‐free PSCs. Furthermore, a PCE of as high as 10% is achieved for the large area device (1 cm2), also the highest of its kind.
Cadmium induces mucin 8 expression via Toll‐like receptor 4–mediated extracellular signal related kinase 1/2 and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase in human airway epithelial cells
Authors: Song Si‐Youn , Bae Chang Hoon , Choi Yoon Seok , Kim Yong‐Dae
Published: January 2016

Background

Inhalation of cadmium can lead to development of inflammatory airway diseases such as acute pulmonary edema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In inflammatory airway diseases, expression of mucins is increased, which leads to increased morbidity and mortality of the affected patients. However, no study on the effect of cadmium on expression of mucin genes in airway epithelial cells has been reported. Therefore, this study was conducted in order to investigate the effect and the brief signaling pathway of cadmium on expression of mucin genes in human airway epithelial cells.

Methods

In mucin‐producing human NCI‐H292 airway epithelial cells and primary cultures of normal nasal epithelial cells, the effect and signaling pathway of cadmium on expression of mucin genes were investigated using reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), real‐time PCR, enzyme immunoassay, and immunoblot analysis with several specific inhibitors and small interfering RNA (siRNA).

Results

Cadmium increased mucin 8 (MUC8) expression and Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. Cadmium significantly activated phosphorylation of extracellular signal related kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and p38 MAPK. ERK1/2 MAPK inhibitor, p38 MAPK inhibitor, TLR4 siRNA, ERK1/2 MAPK siRNA, and p38 MAPK siRNA significantly blocked cadmium‐induced MUC8 mRNA expression. TLR4 siRNA significantly blocked cadmium‐activated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 MAPK and p38 MAPK.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest for the first time that cadmium induces MUC8 expression via TLR4‐mediated ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK signaling pathway in human airway epithelial cells.
Gedrungene Kreisringstützen aus ultrahochfestem Beton
Authors: Empelmann Martin , Müller Corinna , Busse Daniel
Published: January 2016

Innerhalb der dritten Förderperiode des Schwerpunktprogramms “Nachhaltiges Bauen mit ultrahochfestem Beton (UHPC)” (SPP 1182) der Deutschen Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) wurde am Institut für Baustoffe, Massivbau und Brandschutz (iBMB) der Technischen Universität Braunschweig das Last‐Verformungsverhalten von gedrungenen Stahlbetonstützen mit Kreisringquerschnitt aus UHPC unter zentrischer und exzentrischer Normalkraftbeanspruchung analysiert. Auf Basis experimenteller Untersuchungen wurde überprüft, ob sich eine geringe Wandstärke der Kreisringquerschnitte negativ auf die Tragfähigkeit der Stahlbetonstützen auswirkt. Des Weiteren wurde der Einfluss der konstruktiven Durchbildung der Stahlbetonstützen mit Kreisringquerschnitt aus UHPC auf das Last‐Verformungsverhalten untersucht.

Compact reinforced UHPC columns with circular hollow cross‐section

Within the third funding period of the Priority Program “Sustainable Building with ultra high performance concrete (UHPC)” (SPP 1182) of the German Research Foundation (DFG), the load‐deformation behavior of compact thin‐walled reinforced UHPC columns with circular hollow cross‐section was investigated under centric and eccentric normal force at the Institute for Building Materials, Concrete Construction and Fire Protection (iBMB) of the Technische Universität Braunschweig. On the basis of experimental investigations, it was examined whether the small wall‐thickness of the circular hollow cross‐section has an impact on the load bearing capacity of the reinforced concrete columns. Furthermore, the influence of the structural design on the load‐deformation behavior of the reinforced UHPC columns with circular hollow cross‐section was investigated.
Zum Entwurf großer Naturzugkühltürme
Authors: Krätzig Wilfried B. , Andres Matthias , Arntz Matthias , Eckstein Ulrich , Harte Reinhard , Wörmann Ralf
Published: January 2016

Preiswerte Energie bildet die Grundlage des Wohlstands von Industrienationen. Erzeugt wird diese derzeit und in naher Zukunft in thermischen Großkraftwerken von bis zu 1,2 GW Leistung, auf der Basis von Kohle oder Kernkraft. Derartige Kraftwerke benötigen zur Rück‐Kondensation ihres Arbeitsmediums Dampf große Naturzugkühltürme, um natürliche Gewässer nicht thermisch zu belasten und sie so zu vergiften. Der vorliegende Beitrag beschreibt diese größten Schalenkonstruktionen aus Stahlbeton, er erläutert aus der Vielzahl beim Bau und Entwurf auftretender technischer Probleme die Nachweise der Beulsicherheit sowie die oftmals komplizierten Gründungssituationen.

Design of large Natural Draft Cooling Towers

Cheap energy forms the basis of the wealth of industrial nations. Cheap energy will be generated presently and in near future in thermal power plants up to 1.2 GW of power, working on basis of coal or nuclear fuel. Such power plants require large natural draft cooling towers for re‐condensation of their working medium steam, to avoid thermal poisoning of natural waters. The present manuscript describes these largest shell structures made of reinforced concrete, it details, from multiple problems during design and construction, the safety proofs of shell stability, and their often complicated foundations.
Risk of pneumonia associated with zero‐degree head positioning in acute ischemic stroke patients treated with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator
Authors: Palazzo Paola , Brooks Amy , James David , Moore Randy , Alexandrov Andrei V. , Alexandrov Anne W.
Published: January 2016

Introduction

In the hyperacute phase of ischemic stroke, a 0° position is recommended to increase cerebral perfusion in nonhypoxic patients able to tolerate lying flat. However, use of 0° positioning is not uniformly applied in clinical practice, most likely due to concerns of aspiration pneumonia. We aimed to determine the risk of pneumonia associated with 0° head of bed positioning in acute stroke patients treated with thrombolytic therapy.

Methods

A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using prospectively collected, consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients treated with IVtPA whose head of bed was positioned at 0° for the first 24 h. Rates of hospital‐acquired pneumonia were determined using a strict adjudication process to insure accuracy of pneumonia diagnoses. Quantitative characteristics were analyzed in SPSS to compare differences between “true” pneumonia cases and nonpneumonia cases.

Results

Twenty‐four of 333 (7.2%) patients had mention the diagnosis of pneumonia in the registry and/or medical record. Of these cases, only 15 (4.5%) met evidence‐based diagnostic criteria for hospital‐acquired pneumonia. The 15 adjudicated cases had similar median admission NIHSS scores to nonpneumonia cases (10 vs. 9, respectively; P = ns), but were older (74 ± 15 vs. 64 ± 17 years; mean difference 9.889, 95 CI = 1.2–18.6; P = 0.026). A total of eight patients with pneumonia were intubated and mechanically ventilated, and one patient received bilevel positive airway pressure ventilation during the 0° positioning period. Pneumonia cases had significantly longer hospitalizations (14.5 ± 12 vs. 6.6 ± 9 days; mean difference 7.97, 95% CI = 1.1–14.8; P = 0.026) and higher median discharge mRS score (4 vs. 3: P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Zero‐degree head of bed positioning in the first 24 h following an acute ischemic stroke treated with IV‐tPA was associated with acceptable rates of pneumonia. Rates for pneumonia may be further reduced by eliminating use of a 0° protocol in intubated/mechanically ventilated patients.