bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Cross-Shelf Flow Structure, Upwelling Relaxation, and the Alongshelf Pressure Gradient in the Northern California Current System
Authors: McCabe Ryan M. , Hickey Barbara M. , Dever Edward P. , MacCready Parker
Published: October 2014

Moored observations are used to investigate the seasonal change in vertical structure of the cross-shelf circulation at a midshelf location in the northern California Current System. A streamwise–normal coordinate system is employed to eliminate meander- and eddy-induced biases in the cross-shelf flow that are unaccounted for with an alternative, commonly applied approach. The resulting flow structure develops an organized pattern midway through the upwelling season. In particular, under upwelling-favorable conditions an onshore return layer occurs just beneath the offshore surface flow, and a third offshore-directed layer exists at depth that does not appear to satisfy Ekman dynamics (to within 9 m of the bottom). Both subsurface layers strengthen in time over the upwelling season. Mechanisms to explain the mean structure are evaluated, and it is suggested that the timing of the development and strengthening of both the interior onshore return flow and the offshore near-bottom layer are consistent with the seasonally changing direction and magnitude of the large-scale alongshelf sea level gradient. The change to a poleward sea level gradient initiates a seasonal relaxation of upwelled isopycnals that likely leads to the near-bottom flow. Late-season enhancement of the interior onshore return flow is related to the alongshelf surface wind stress but appears to form as a consequence of offshore transport in the near-bottom layer and the need to satisfy coastal mass balance.
Decreased Expression of Stem Cell Markers by Simvastatin in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)–induced Breast Cancer
Authors: Rennó André Lisboa , Alves-Júnior Marcos José , Rocha Rafael Malagoli , De Souza Philipi Coutinho , de Souza Valéria Barbosa , Jampietro Juliano , Vassallo José , Hyslop Stephen , Anhê Gabriel Forato , de Moraes Schenka Natália Guimarães , Soares Fernando Augusto , Schenka André Almeida
Published: October 2014

Simvastatin, a competitive inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase widely used in the treatment and prevention of hyperlipidemia-related diseases, has recently been associated to in vitro anticancer stem cell (CSC) actions. However, these effects have not been confirmed in vivo. To assess in vivo anti-CSC effects of simvastatin, female Sprague-Dawley rats with 7,12-dimethyl-benz(a)anthracene (DMBA)–induced mammary cancer and control animals were treated for 14 days with either simvastatin (20 or 40 mg/kg/day) or soybean oil ( N = 60). Tumors and normal breast tissues were removed for pathologic examination and immunodetection of CSC markers. At 40 mg/kg/day, simvastatin significantly reduced tumor growth and the expression of most CSC markers. The reduction in tumor growth (80%) could not be explained solely by the decrease in CSCs, since the latter accounted for less than 10% of the neoplasia (differentiated cancer cells were also affected). Stem cells in normal, nonneoplastic breast tissues were not affected by simvastatin. Simvastatin was also associated with a significant decrease in proliferative activity but no increase in cell death. In conclusion, this is the first study to confirm simvastatin anti-CSC actions in vivo, further demonstrating that this effect is specific for neoplastic cells, but not restricted to CSCs, and most likely due to inhibition of cell proliferation.
Endovenous laser ablation with and without high ligation compared to high ligation and stripping for treatment of great saphenous varicose veins: Results of a multicentre randomised controlled trial with up to 6 years follow-up
Authors: Flessenkämper I , Hartmann M , Hartmann K , Stenger D , Roll S
Published: October 2014

Objectives

High ligation and stripping was compared to endovenous laser ablation for the therapy of great saphenous vein varicosity. Long-term efficacy was assessed in terms of avoidance of inguinal reflux and mechanisms of recurrence were investigated.

Design

Multicentre, randomised, three-arm, parallel trial.

Materials and methods

A total of 449 patients were randomised into three different treatment groups: high ligation and stripping group ( n = 159), endovenous laser ablation group ( n = 142; 980 nm, 30 W continuous mode, bare fibre) or a combination of laser ablation with high ligation (endovenous laser ablation group/ high ligation group, n = 148). Patients were examined clinically and by duplex ultrasound once a year. The primary end point of this study is inguinal reflux at the saphenofemoral junction after 2 years. This paper presents secondary data on sonographically determined inguinal reflux and clinical recurrences in the treated area after up to 6 years of follow-up.

Results

Median time to follow-up was 4.0 years; the mean time follow-up 3.6 years. Follow-up rates were: 2 years 74%, 3 years 47%, 4 years 39%, 5 years 36% and 6 years 31%. Most reflux into the great saphenous vein appeared in the endovenous laser ablation group (after 6 years: high ligation/stripping versus endovenous laser ablation p = 0.0102; high ligation/endovenous laser ablation vs. endovenous laser ablation p < 0.0002). Furthermore, more refluxive side branches were also observed in the endovenous laser ablation group (after 6 years high ligation/stripping vs. endovenous laser ablation p = 0.0569; high ligation/endovenous laser ablation vs. endovenous laser ablation p = 0.0111). In terms of clinical recurrence during the 6 years post therapy, no significant differences between the three treatment groups were observed ( p values from log-rank test: high ligation/stripping vs. endovenous laser ablation p = 0.5479; high ligation/stripping vs. high ligation/endovenous laser ablation p = 0.2324; high ligation/endovenous laser ablation vs. endovenous laser ablation p = 0.0848). The postoperative decline and later development in Class C (clinical etiological anatomical pathological) went parallel in all groups.

Conclusions

Clinical recurrence appears with the same frequency in all three treatment groups, but the responsible pathological mechanisms seem to differ. Most reflux into the great saphenous vein and side branches appears after endovenous laser ablation, whereas more saphenofemoral junction-independent recurrences are seen after high ligation/stripping.
The Relationship Between Preschoolers’ Attitudes and Play Behaviors Toward Classmates With Disabilities
Authors: Yu SeonYeong , Ostrosky Michaelene M. , Fowler Susan A.
Published: October 2014

This study was conducted to examine the relationship between 32 typically developing preschoolers’ attitudes and play behaviors toward their classmates with disabilities or developmental delays. Children’s attitudes toward peers with disabilities were assessed using three methods: child interviews, sociometric peer ratings, and a social acceptance scale. Children’s play behaviors (e.g., solitary, onlooker, parallel play, associative/cooperative play) and teachers’ involvement in children’s play were observed during free play over a 10-week period. Results revealed that children’s identification of a classmate with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) as having a disability was negatively related to their associative/cooperative play with the classmate. Typically developing children’s sociometric ratings of classmates with disabilities were positively related to their associative/cooperative play with classmates with disabilities. In addition, children’s sociometric ratings were a stronger indicator of whether a typically developing child would play with a classmate with a disability than was identification of a classmate as having a disability. Suggestions for future research and implications for practice are discussed.
Effects of washing, peeling, storage, and fermentation on residue contents of carbaryl and mancozeb in cucumbers grown in greenhouses
Authors: Saeedi Saravi SS , Shokrzadeh M
Published: October 2014

Cucumbers grown in two different greenhouses were exposed to mancozeb and carbaryl at different times. The effects of 10-day preharvest period, water and detergent washing, peeling, predetermined storage period at 4°C (refrigeration), and fermentation on the reduction of residue levels in the plant tissues were investigated. Mancozeb and carbaryl residues in cucumbers were determined by gas chromatography–electron capture detection. Results showed that residue levels in samples, which were collected after 10 days following the pesticide application, were significantly lower than the samples collected after 2 h subsequent to the pesticide application. The culinary applications were effective in reducing the residue levels of the pesticides in cucumbers. As a result, non-fermentative pickling in sodium chloride and acetic acid was the most effective way to reduce the mancozeb and carbaryl residues of the cucumbers.
Feasibility of a Newborn Screening and Follow-up Programme for Sickle Cell Disease among South Gujarat (India) Tribal Populations
Authors: Italia Yazdi , Krishnamurti Lakshmanan , Mehta Vishal , Raicha Bhavesh , Italia Khushnooma , Mehta Pallavi , Ghosh Kanjaksha , Colah Roshan
Published: October 2014

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of a newborn screening and follow-up programme for sickle cell disease (SCD) among tribal populations of south Gujarat, India.

Methods

A total of 5467 newborn babies were screened over 2 years using High-performance liquid chromatography, with diagnosis by molecular analysis. The SCD babies were followed-up clinically and haematologically regularly for 1.5 to 5 years to describe the course of the disease.

Results

Thirty-three babies (0.60%) were sickle homozygous, 13 (0.23%) were-sickle-β-thalassaemia, 687 (12.5%) were sickle heterozygous, and 4736 were unaffected. The parents of SCD babies were educated and counselled for home care. There were 32 babies (69.5%) who could be clinically and haematologically followed-up; 7 babies (21.8%) presented with severe clinical complications, whereas 18 (56.2%) babies were asymptomatic till the last follow-up. The variation in clinical presentation was seen in spite of the presence of ameliorating factors, such as high fetal haemoglobin, Xmn-I polymorphism, and α-thalassaemia.

Conclusion

In addition to demonstrating the possibility of establishing a newborn screening programme for sickle cell disorders among tribal populations, this study has shown that the disease is not always mild among tribal groups in India, as previously believed. There is a need, therefore, for increasing awareness among these tribal groups about the disease, and for regular monitoring of affected babies to reduce morbidity and mortality and to understand the natural course of the disease.
Families Parenting Adolescents With Substance Abuse—Recovering the Mother’s Voice
Authors: Smith Jackie M. , Estefan Andrew
Published: October 2014

Alcohol and substance dependency are complex, problematic phenomena, which are growing worldwide. In particular, drug use and abuse among young people is a significant concern. Although addiction presents as a problem of dependent individuals, families are also profoundly affected by the family member’s addiction. In this narrative literature review, we review published research from 1937 to 2014 to capture a narrative and historical perspective of addiction and family. We condense and analyze the experiences of parents with alcohol- and drug-dependent children, to emphasize the need for a more specific, in-depth exploration of mothers’ experiences. Such exploration may advance nurses’ understandings of individual, familial, and social complexities of parenting an addicted child.
Dating Violence Victimization and Perpetration Rates Among High School Students
Authors: Coker Ann L. , Clear Emily R. , Garcia Lisandra S. , Asaolu Ibitola O. , Cook-Craig Patricia G. , Brancato Candace J. , Williams Corrine M. , Bush Heather M. , Fisher Bonnie S.
Published: October 2014

This school-based sample provides the largest estimate of physical and psychological dating violence (DV) victimization and the only report of DV perpetration among high school students. Among 14,190 students in relationships, 33.4% disclosed DV by a partner (victimization) and 20.2% used these same behaviors against a partner (perpetration) in the past 12 months. Physical DV victimization (13%) was less frequently disclosed than psychological DV (23%). Rates of DV victimization and perpetration were highest among females, those receiving free or reduced-price meals, those not exclusively attracted to the opposite sex, students reporting parental or guardian partner violence, binge drinking, and bullying.
“The Only Solution There Is To Fight”
Authors: van Niekerk Taryn J. , Boonzaier Floretta A.
Published: October 2014

This qualitative study investigates the discourses that men used when talking about their experiences of attending a Duluth–cognitive-behavioral-therapy (CBT) domestic violence program in Cape Town, South Africa. Data were collected from 12 men who were recruited from three programs. A discourse analysis of interviews revealed that men drew upon various dominant discourses of masculinity that may reinforce the subordination of, control over, and violence against women. Our findings from this study contribute to the debate surrounding the Duluth model’s effectiveness in South Africa by questioning its successes in transforming violent masculinity.
Typical School Personnel Developing and Implementing Basic Behavior Support Plans
Authors: Strickland-Cohen M. Kathleen , Horner Robert H.
Published: October 2014

We evaluated the ability of typical school personnel with basic behavioral training to develop and implement function-based supports for students with mild to moderate problem behaviors. Descriptive results indicated that following four 1-hr training sessions, 13 participants were able to (a) identify interventions that were and were not functionally related to problem behavior and (b) lead school-based teams in developing function-based supports that were rated as technically sound by external behavior analysts. Data resulting from a non-concurrent multiple baseline analysis across five of the trained professionals, each working with a team to address the problem behavior of one elementary school student, indicated that plan implementation occurred with high fidelity and was functionally related to decreases in problem behavior and increases in academic engagement. In addition, school personnel rated the training, tools, and implementation process as effective and efficient. Limitations and implications of these results are discussed.
The hemi-hamate autograft arthroplasty in proximal interphalangeal joint reconstruction: a systematic review
Authors: Frueh F. S. , Calcagni M. , Lindenblatt N.
Published: October 2014

Palmar lip injuries of the proximal interphalangeal joint with dorsal fracture-dislocation are difficult to treat and often require major reconstruction. A systematic review was performed and yielded 177 articles. Thirteen articles on hemi-hamate autograft were included in full-text analysis. Results of 71 cases were summarized. Mean follow-up was 36 months and mean proximal interphalangeal joint range of motion was 77°. Overall complication rate was around 35%. Up to 50% of the patients showed radiographic signs of osteoarthritis. However, few of those patients complained about pain or impaired finger motion. Based on this systematic analysis and review, hemi-hamate autograft can be considered reliable for the reconstruction of acute and chronic proximal interphalangeal joint fracture-dislocations with joint involvement >50%, but longer-term follow-up studies are required to evaluate its outcome, especially regarding the rate of osteoarthritis.

Level of Evidence: II
Influence of surgeon, patient and radiographic factors on distal radius fracture treatment
Authors: Neuhaus V. , Bot A. G. , Guitton T. G. , Ring D. C.
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate surgeon, patient, and radiographic factors influencing the recommendation for operative treatment in distal radius fractures. In a web-based study 252 orthopaedic surgeons from a variety of countries reviewed 30 consecutive sets of radiographs of patients that presented to our emergency department with a fracture of the distal radius. Surgeons were randomly assigned to receive either ‘Radiographs only’ or ‘Radiographs and clinical information’. Surgery was recommended on average 52% of the time whether or not surgeons received clinical information. Female surgeons, surgeons with less than 21 years of experience, and hand surgeons were more likely to recommend operative treatment, but these factors explained only 1% of the variation. Radiographic criteria (intra-articular fractures, ulnar styloid fractures, dorsal comminution, dorsal tilt, and ulnar variance) explained 49% of the variation. The overall agreement on treatment was moderate and slightly higher among surgeons that received radiographs alone.

Level of Evidence: Level II, therapeutic; not a clinical study
Undergraduate Conductors’ and Conducting Teachers’ Perceptions of Basic Conducting Efficacy
Authors: Silvey Brian A. , Baumgartner Christopher M.
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine undergraduate conductors’ and conducting teachers’ perceptions about basic conducting efficacy. At the beginning and end of the semester, undergraduate students ( N = 19) enrolled in a basic conducting course (a) were surveyed about the importance of certain skills necessary for being an effective conductor and (b) viewed and rated their first videotaped conducting episode. Results indicated very few significant differences in participants’ ratings of important conducting skills or their own self-evaluation of nonverbal conducting skills. In addition, university conducting teachers ( N = 9) evaluated videos of 10 conductors (five who had participated in the basic conducting course and five nonconductors who had not) who led a university concert band in an identical 1-minute excerpt of band music. No significant differences were found between the basic conductors’ and the nonconductors’ nonverbal conducting behaviors. Implications for conducting teachers, undergraduate conducting students, and preservice teachers are discussed.
IFN-γ causes aplastic anemia by altering hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell composition and disrupting lineage differentiation
Authors: Lin Fan-ching , Karwan Megan , Saleh Bahara , Hodge Deborah L. , Chan Tim , Boelte Kimberly C. , Keller Jonathan R. , Young Howard A.
Published: October 2014

Key Points

IFN-γ alone leads to aplastic anemia by disrupting the generation of common myeloid progenitors and lineage differentiation. The inhibitory effect of IFN-γ on hematopoiesis is intrinsic to hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells.
The Alexander Technique and musicians: a systematic review of controlled trials
Authors: Klein Sabine D , Bayard Claudine , Wolf Ursula
Published: October 2014

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders, stress and performance anxiety are common in musicians. Therefore, some use the Alexander Technique (AT), a psycho-physical method that helps to release unnecessary muscle tension and re-educates non-beneficial movement patterns through intentional inhibition of unwanted habitual behaviours. According to a recent review AT sessions may be effective for chronic back pain. This review aimed to evaluate the evidence for the effectiveness of AT sessions on musicians’ performance, anxiety, respiratory function and posture.

Methods

The following electronic databases were searched up to February 2014 for relevant publications: PUBMED, Google Scholar, CINAHL, EMBASE, AMED, PsycINFO and RILM. The search criteria were “Alexander Technique” AND “music*”. References were searched, and experts and societies of AT or musicians’ medicine contacted for further publications.

Results

237 citations were assessed. 12 studies were included for further analysis, 5 of which were randomised controlled trials (RCTs), 5 controlled but not randomised (CTs), and 2 mixed methods studies. Main outcome measures in RCTs and CTs were music performance, respiratory function, performance anxiety, body use and posture. Music performance was judged by external experts and found to be improved by AT in 1 of 3 RCTs; in 1 RCT comparing neurofeedback (NF) to AT, only NF caused improvements. Respiratory function was investigated in 2 RCTs, but not improved by AT training. Performance anxiety was mostly assessed by questionnaires and decreased by AT in 2 of 2 RCTs and in 2 of 2 CTs.

Conclusions

A variety of outcome measures has been used to investigate the effectiveness of AT sessions in musicians. Evidence from RCTs and CTs suggests that AT sessions may improve performance anxiety in musicians. Effects on music performance, respiratory function and posture yet remain inconclusive. Future trials with well-established study designs are warranted to further and more reliably explore the potential of AT in the interest of musicians.
Docking study of novel antihyperlipidemic thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine; LM-1554, with some molecular targets related to hyperlipidemia - an investigation into its mechanism of action
Authors: Khedkar Vijay M , Arya Nikhilesh , Coutinho Evans C , Shishoo Chamanlal J , Jain Kishor S
Published: October 2014

An investigation into the mechanism of antihyperlipidemic action of 2-chloromethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobenzo(b)thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-one (LM-1554) was carried out through docking experiments with six different molecular targets; Niemann Pick C1 Like1 protein (NPC1L1), ATP citrate lyase (ACL), C-reactive protein (CRP), lanosterol 14α-demethylase (LDM), squalene synthase (SqS) and farnesiod X-receptor (FXR) known to be implicated in the physiology of hyperlipidemia. The interactions of LM-1554 were compared with the interactions of their respective co-crystallized native ligands at the active sites of these receptors. These comparisons are based on their docking parameters, as well as, types of interactions and vicinity with various amino acids in the active site pockets. The interaction of LM-1554 with the target, NPC1L1 has been found to be the quite favourable as compared to those with the other targets assessed in this study.
Argatroban versus Lepirudin in critically ill patients (ALicia): a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Treschan Tanja A , Schaefer Maximilian S , Geib Johann , Bahlmann Astrid , Brezina Tobias , Werner Patrick , Golla Elisabeth , Greinacher Andreas , Pannen Benedikt , Kindgen-Milles Detlef , Kienbaum Peter , Beiderlinden Martin
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Critically ill patients often require renal replacement therapy accompanied by thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia during heparin anticoagulation may be due to heparin-induced thrombocytopenia with need for alternative anticoagulation. Therefore, we compared argatroban and lepirudin in critically ill surgical patients.

Methods

Following institutional review board approval and written informed consent, critically ill surgical patients more than or equal to 18 years with suspected heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, were randomly assigned to receive double-blind argatroban or lepirudin anticoagulation targeting an activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) of 1.5 to 2 times baseline. In patients requiring continuous renal replacement therapy we compared the life-time of hemodialysis filters. We evaluated in all patients the incidence of bleeding and thrombembolic events.

Results

We identified 66 patients with suspected heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, including 28 requiring renal replacement therapy. Mean filter lifetimes did not differ between groups (argatroban 32 ± 25 hours (n = 12) versus lepirudin 27 ± 21 hours (n = 16), mean difference 5 hours, 95% CI −13 to 23, P = 0.227). Among all 66 patients, relevant bleeding occurred in four argatroban- versus eleven lepirudin-patients (OR 3.9, 95% CI 1.1 to 14.0, P = 0.040). In the argatroban-group, three thromboembolic events occurred compared to two in the lepirudin group (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.1 to 4.4, P = 0.639). The incidence of confirmed heparin-induced thrombocytopenia was 23% (n = 15) in our study population.

Conclusions

This first randomized controlled double-blind trial comparing two direct thrombin inhibitors showed comparable effectiveness for renal replacement therapy, but suggests fewer bleeds in surgical patients with argatroban anticoagulation.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials.gov NCT00798525. Registered 25 November 2008
Realization method for a rearrangement task by multiple mobile robots in consideration of map errors
Authors: Fujii Norisuke , Ogata Taiki , Hara Tatsunori , Ota Jun
Published: October 2014

In this paper, we propose a realization method for a rearrangement task involving multiple movable objects and mobile robots. All of the objects are transported from their initial positions to goal positions. It is important for mobile robots to cope with map errors in order to execute tasks in a real environment. However, a rearrangement task is a very complicated process involving constraints related to transportation order and scarcity of spatial resources. Therefore, it is difficult to develop an adequate method to deal with map errors and still maintain task performance. We primarily address two questions: what kinds of tactics are needed and when these tactics should be applied. Our method involves adopting a problem-partitioning structure that divides a complicated rearrangement problem into simple subproblems. Furthermore, we design a real mobile robot group. Using the realization method and real robot group, we conduct experiments involving a rearrangement task in an actual environment. The results show that our proposed method can cope with map errors quickly, while maintaining task realization performance.
Dopamine inhibits the function of Gr-1+CD115+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells through D1-like receptors and enhances anti-tumor immunity
Authors: Wu Jin , Zhang Ruihua , Tang Ning , Gong Zizhen , Zhou Jiefei , Chen Yingwei , Chen Kang , Cai Wei
Published: October 2014

MDSCs accumulate in tumor-bearing animals and cancer patients and are a major factor responsible for cancer-induced immunosuppression that limits effective cancer immunotherapy. Strategies aimed at effectively inhibiting the function of MDSCs are expected to enhance host anti-tumor immunity and improve cancer immunotherapy significantly. The neurotransmitter DA has been found to have anti-cancer activity, but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. In this study, we sought to investigate the therapeutic mechanism and efficacy of DA on the inhibition of cancer development via the regulation of MDSC functions. The regulation of the suppressive function of Gr-1+CD115+ MDSCs by DA was determined by use of murine syngeneic LLC and B16 graft models treated with DA in vivo, as well as Gr-1+CD115+ MDSCs isolated from these model treated with DA ex vivo. Here, we show that Gr-1+CD115+ monocytic MDSCs express D1-like DA receptors. DA dramatically attenuated the inhibitory function of tumor-induced monocytic MDSCs on T cell proliferation and IFN-γ production via D1-like DA receptors and retarded tumor growth. DA and other D1 receptor agonists inhibited IFN-γ-induced NO production by MDSCs from tumor-bearing mice and cancer patients. Decreased NO production was, in part, mediated via the suppression of p-ERK and p-JNK. In conclusion, the neurotransmitter DA potently inhibits the suppressive function of MDSC and enhances anti-tumor immunity. Our finding provides a mechanistic basis for the use of DA or D1-like receptor agonists to overcome tumor-induced immunosuppression in cancer immunotherapy.
Expression and targeting of lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1) on white blood cells for treatment of allergic asthma
Authors: Gupta Anukriti , Espinosa Vanessa , Galusha Lindsey E , Rahimian Vahid , Miro Katie L , Rivera-Medina Amariliz , Kasinathan Chinnaswamy , Capitle Eugenio , Aguila Helen A , Kachlany Scott C
Published: October 2014

Allergic asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that results from an exaggerated inflammatory response in the airways. Environment stimuli, such as pollen and HDM, cause activation and migration of inflammatory WBCs into the respiratory tract, where they cause lung damage. Migration of these WBCs is dependent on the active configuration of the β2 integrin LFA-1. The experimental therapeutic agent LtxA specifically targets active LFA-1 and causes cell death. We investigated the association between LFA-1 and allergic asthma and hypothesized that targeting LFA-1 with LtxA could be an attractive strategy for treatment of the condition. We examined LFA-1 (CD11a) levels on PBMCs from patients with allergic asthma compared with healthy controls. Patients exhibited a significantly higher percentage of PBMCs expressing LFA-1 than healthy controls. Furthermore, the level of LFA-1 expression on patient PBMCs was greater than on healthy PBMCs. We identified a unique cellular population in patients that consisted of CD4– CD11ahi cells. We also evaluated LtxA in a HDM extract-induced mouse model for allergic asthma. LtxA caused resolution of disease in mice, as demonstrated by a decrease in BALF WBCs, a reduction in pulmonary inflammation and tissue remodeling, and a decrease in proinflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-17F, and IL-23α in lung tissue. LFA-1 may serve as an important marker in allergic asthma, and the elimination of activated WBCs by use of LtxA could be a viable therapeutic strategy for treating patients with this condition.
An improved optimal nearly analytical discretized method for 2D scalar wave equation in heterogeneous media based on the modified nearly analytical discrete operator
Authors: Chen Yushu , Song Guojie , Xue Zhihui , Jing Hao , Fu Haohuan , Yang Guangwen
Published: October 2014

Conventional finite-difference methods will encounter strong numerical dispersion on coarse grids or when higher frequencies are used. The nearly analytic discrete method (NADM) and its improved version, developed recently, can suppress numerical dispersion efficiently. However, the NADM is imperfect, especially in long-time seismic wave propagation simulation. To overcome this limitation, by minimizing the energy-error function, we have developed a modified optimal nearly analytical discretized (MNAD) method. The stencil of MNAD for the 2D wave equation is a novel diamond stencil. MNAD has two major advantages: The first one is that MNAD can suppress numerical dispersion effectively on coarse grids, which significantly improved computational efficiency and reduced memory demands. The second advantage is that the energy error of MNAD is much smaller after long-time simulation. The numerical dispersion analysis shows that the maximum phase velocity error was 5.92% even if only two sampling points were adopted in each minimum wavelength. To simulate a wavefield without visible numerical dispersion, the computational speed of MNAD, measured by CPU time, was approximately 4.32 times and 1.43 times comparing with the fourth-order Lax-Wendroff correction (LWC) method and the optimal nearly analytical discretized method (ONADM), respectively. MNAD also shows good numerical stability. Its CFL condition increased 24.3% comparing with that of ONADM, from 0.523 to 0.650. The total energy error was less than 1.5% after 300-s simulation whereas the error of other numerical schemes, such as the fourth-order and eighth-order LWC, etc., was up to more than 10% under the same computational parameters. Numerical results showed that our MNAD method performed well in computational efficiency, simulation accuracy, and numerical stability, as well as provided a useful tool for large-scale, long-time seismic wave propagation simulation.
Conditional Deletion of Men1 in the Pancreatic β-Cell Leads to Glucagon-Expressing Tumor Development
Authors: Li Feng , Su Yutong , Cheng Yulong , Jiang Xiuli , Peng Ying , Li Yanli , Lu Jieli , Gu Yanyun , Zhang Changxian , Cao Yanan , Wang Weiqing , Ning Guang
Published: October 2014

The tumor suppressor menin is recognized as a key regulator of β-cell proliferation. To induce tumorigenesis within the pancreatic β-cells, floxed alleles of Men1 were selectively ablated using Cre-recombinase driven by the insulin promoter. Despite the β-cell specificity of the RipCre, glucagon-expressing tumors as well as insulinomas developed in old mutant mice. These glucagon-expressing tumor cells were menin deficient and expressed the mature α-cell-specific transcription factors Brain-specific homeobox POU domain protein 4 (Brn4) and v-maf musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene family, protein B (MafB). Moreover, the inactivation of β-cell-specific transcription factors was observed in mutant β-cells. Our work shows that Men1 ablation in the pancreatic β-cells leads to the inactivation of specific transcription factors, resulting in glucagon-expressing tumor development, which sheds light on the mechanisms of islet tumorigenesis.
Thoughts on Modernism and “Feminist Aesthetics of Potentiality” In Ziarek’s Feminist Aesthetics and the Politics of Modernism
Authors: Jones Donna V.
Published: October 2014

This brief review essay focuses on the central question posed in Ewa Plonowska Ziarek’s Feminist Aesthetics and the Politics of Modernism: if feminism is considered in social and biographical terms while aesthetics focuses on questions of form and abstraction, does a feminist aesthetics become inconceivable? This question is examined in light of the traditional divide in modernist studies between aesthetics and the political.
Characterization of 2,9-Dihexylpentacene Films on Graphite (0001) by Metastable Atom Electron Spectroscopy and Ultraviolet Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Yamazaki Shunya , Okuda Shohei , Ozaki Hiroyuki , Endo Osamu , Ogino Kenji , Okamoto Kazuo
Published: October 2014

Using metastable atom electron spectroscopy and ultra-violet photoelectron spectroscopy, the electronic structure and the molecular orientation of 2,9-dihexylpentacene are studied for two kinds of films prepared by vapor deposition onto a graphite (0001) substrate. It is found that the molecules lie flat in a monolayer of 0.4 nm thickness but stand up in a 16-nm film with the methyl ends of the chains exposed outside.
Assessing the prevalence of malnutrition in tribal children using MUAC as a screening tool
Authors: Qureshi Mohtashim A. , Qureshi Ihtesham A. , Syed Asghar , Kokku Suresh Babu
Published: October 2014

Children malnutrition is a major public health problem in India. Malnutrition has the maximum impact on children living in rural and tribal areas. Various anthropometric indices such as weight–for-age, height-for-age, weight-for- height and Body Mass Index (BMI) are used to assess the nutritional status of the children. Mid-upper-arm circumference (MUAC) is being used as an alternative to traditional measurements like height and weight, particularly in emergency settings. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended MUAC to be used as an independent diagnostic criterion for assessing severe acute malnutrition among children. A total of 4502 children between 6-59 months of age were screened over a period of 12 months, in seven Medicins Sans Frontiers (MSF) Project mobile clinic sites located in states of Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh border areas in India. MUAC was measured with MSF-designed fiber optic measuring tapes. In general, the overall prevalence of malnutrition among 6-59 months children was 15.2%. However the prevalence of malnutrition was higher among children of 6-23 months age group (25.8%) as compared to children of 24-59 months (5.4%). Despite various national nutritional intervention programs have been in operation for about four decades, the malnutrition remains very high particularly among the children living in hilly and remote tribal villages.
Maximizing Demineralization during Chemical Leaching of Coal through Optimal Reagent Addition Policy
Authors: Dash Pratik S. , Prasad D. N. , Sriramoju Santosh K. , Lingam R. K. , Suresh A. , Banerjee P. K. , Ganguly S.
Published: October 2014

The main objective of the optimal reagent addition was to maximize the quantity of product with minimal quantity of feed. In the present study, the optimal addition of reagents during the chemical leaching of coal was computed. Chemical leaching of coal was carried out using aqueous solution of caustic to dissolve and remove the mineral matter. Simulation studies were carried out using the optimal reagent addition for chemical leaching of coal in batch reactors. This was experimentally validated, using the bench-scale reactor setup with hierarchical optimization architecture. Chemical leaching experiments were conducted using West Bokaro coal. Samples collected at various time intervals during the experiment were analyzed. Variations in silica (SiO2) and alumina (Al2O3) concentrations, which were main constituents present in coal ash, were evaluated with respect to time for different concentrations of caustic. The simulation studies for optimal addition were carried out at 6, 8 and 10 intervals. An objective function, required for maximum ash removal, was solved, using sequential quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm to find out the optimum sequence for reagent dosing. An improvement of about 1% (wt) ash reduction on an average was observed with implementation of optimal reagent addition.
Prediction of FV520B Steel Flow Stresses at High Temperature and Strain Rates
Authors: Han Xiaolan , Zhao Shengdun , Zhang Chenyang , Fan Shuqin , Xu Fan
Published: October 2014

In order to develop reliable constitutive equations for the simulation, the hot deformation behavior of FV520B steel was investigated through isothermal compression tests in a wide range of temperatures from 900 °C to 1100 °C at an interval of 50 °C and strain rate from 0.01 to 10 s
Location Model and Algorithm of Construction Waste Recycling Centers for Service Reliability
Authors: Xie Qiu , Fan Xing Rong , He Qiong , Yang Yu
Published: October 2014

Presently, most studies focus on the minimization of the costs and negative social effects of the location of construction waste recycling centers; however, the influence of the location on future operation is usually ignored. Aiming at solving these problems, a location model for the maximization of service reliability was devised. Service reliability includes the recycling reliability of the construction waste and the delivery reliability of the recycled product. Through maximizing service reliability, the location deviation as a result of arrival delay is expected to be reduced and the service reliability improved. Then, two important parameters in our model were solved on the basis of correlative mathematical theories. Finally, an example was implemented to verify our location optimization model. A genetic algorithm was used to obtain optimal solutions, and the solutions were analyzed. Through establishing a location optimization model, a possible better solution to location problems may be obtained to help in implementing location selection for recycling centers.
An efficient synthesis of N-substituted pyrroles catalyzed by MgI2 etherate
Authors: Zhang Yongdong , Weng Guodong , Chen Jingyan , Ma Danting , Zhang Xingxian
Published: October 2014

We describe a convenient and useful procedure for the synthesis of various 2,5-dimethyl-N-substituted pyrrole derivatives by the addition of 2,5-hexadione with aromatic amines, heteroaromatic amines and aliphatic amines catalyzed by MgI
A Note on Economic Inequality and Democratization
Authors: Dorsch Michael T. , Maarek Paul
Published: October 2014

This brief note revisits the empirical relation between economic inequality and instances of democratization. We argue that economic inequality may be an explanatory factor only following macroeconomic downturns. Our point generalizes – empirical peace scientists examining the likelihood of major political events should consider the possibility that explanatory structural factors may have heterogeneous impacts across macroeconomic cycles.
Aerodynamic Optimization Design of Multi-stage Turbine Using the Continuous Adjoint Method
Authors: Chen Lei , Chen Jiang
Published: October 2014

This paper develops a continuous adjoint formulation for the aerodynamic shape design of a turbine in a multi-stage environment based on S
The pressure effect on crystal structure of complex ferroelectrics Ba4Sm2Fe2Nb8O30 and Ba4Gd2Fe2Nb8O30
Authors: Jabarov Sakin H. , Kichanov Sergey E. , Kozlenko Denis P. , Mehdiyeva Rafiga Z. , Lathe Christian , Mammadov Ali I. , Lukin Evgeniy V. , Savenko Boris N.
Published: October 2014

The crystal structure of complex oxide ferroelectrics Ba4Sm2Fe2Nb8O30 and Ba4Gd2Fe2Nb8O30 have been studied by means of energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction method at high pressure up to 4 GPa at room temperature. At ambient pressure, the crystal structure of both compounds is described by the tetragonal symmetry with space group P4/mbm. At pressure P∼1.8 GPa in Ba4Sm2Fe2Nb8O30 and at P∼2.2 GPa in Ba4Gd2Fe2Nb8O30 the structure phase transition have been observed. The orthorhombic structure model with Pba2 space group for high-pressure phase of those compounds have been proposed. The baric dependences of lattice parameters and unit cell volumes of Ba4Sm2Fe2Nb8O30 and Ba4Gd2Fe2Nb8O30 compounds have been obtained.
Understanding Fatigue Crack Growth Behavior at Low Frequencies for a Mn–Ni–Cr Steel in 3.5 % NaCl Solution Under Controlled Cathodic Potential
Authors: Prakash Raghu V. , Dhinakaran Sampath
Published: October 2014

Fatigue crack growth behavior at low loading frequencies for a Mn–Ni–Cr steel immersed in 3.5 % NaCl solution, with and without cathodic polarization, is investigated and presented in this paper. Frequency shedding method is used to estimate fatigue crack growth rate over a range of frequencies between 0.01 and 5 Hz at a constant stress intensity factor range of 15 MPa √m. The effectiveness of cathodic potential of −900 mV SCE in containing corrosion contribution to crack growth is estimated by comparing with published data on fatigue crack growth rate in lab air and 3.5 % NaCl solution without cathodic polarization. It is noted that there are three regions of crack growth rate as a function of applied frequencies when the data is plotted in log–log scale: linear crack growth rate, plateau crack growth rate, and high crack growth rate. The crack growth rate of steel in 3.5 % NaCl solution at 15 MPa √m is scanned for different cathodic potentials between −760 mV SCE and 1150 mV SCE at 0.01 and 0.1 Hz. The potentials at which the crack growth rates are the maximum and the minimum are found to be −760 and −950 mV, respectively. The optimum cathodic protection potential for the minimum corrosion fatigue crack growth rate ranges between −900 and −950 mV. This optimum potential for the minimum corrosion crack growth rate is more negative than the cathodic potential required for restraining the corrosion effects on fatigue strength of steel to normal ambient air behavior.
Transparent, Reproducible Data
Authors: Pulverer Bernd
Published: October 2014

New guidelines for the reporting of research and source data enhance the interpretation and reproducibility of published research.
Potential effects of aerobic exercise on the expression of perilipin 3 in the adipose tissue of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a pilot study
Authors: Covington Jeffrey D , Bajpeyi Sudip , Moro Cedric , Tchoukalova Yourka D , Ebenezer Philip J , Burk David H , Ravussin Eric , Redman Leanne M
Published: October 2014

Objective

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with reduced adipose tissue lipolysis that can be rescued by aerobic exercise. We aimed to identify differences in the gene expression of perilipins and associated targets in adipose tissue in women with PCOS before and after exercise.

Design and methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in eight women with PCOS and eight women matched for BMI and age with normal cycles. Women with PCOS also completed a 16-week prospective aerobic exercise-training study. Abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue biopsies were collected, and primary adipose-derived stromal/stem cell cultures were established from women with PCOS before 16 weeks of aerobic exercise training (n=5) and controls (n=5). Gene expression was measured using real-time PCR, in vitro lipolysis was measured using radiolabeled oleate, and perilipin 3 (PLIN3) protein content was measured by western blotting analysis.

Results

The expression of PLIN1, PLIN3, and PLIN5, along with coatomers ARF1, ARFRP1, and βCOP was ∼80% lower in women with PCOS (all P<0.05). Following exercise training, PLIN3 was the only perilipin to increase significantly (P<0.05), along with coatomers ARF1, ARFRP1, βCOP, and SEC23A (all P<0.05). Furthermore, PLIN3 protein expression was undetectable in the cell cultures from women with PCOS vs controls. Following exercise training, in vitro adipose oleate oxidation, glycerol secretion, and PLIN3 protein expression were increased, along with reductions in triglyceride content and absence of large lipid droplet morphology.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that PLIN3 and coatomer GTPases are important regulators of lipolysis and triglyceride storage in the adipose tissue of women with PCOS.
Identification and differential expression patterns of porcine OCT4 variants
Authors: Hwang Jae Yeon , Oh Jong-Nam , Lee Dong-Kyung , Choi Kwang-Hwan , Park Chi-Hun , Lee Chang-Kyu
Published: October 2014

OCT4encoded byPOU5F1has a crucial role of maintaining pluripotency in embryonic stem cells during early embryonic development and severalOCT4variants have been identified in mouse and human studies. The objective of this study was to identify different variants ofOCT4and analyze their expression patterns in preimplantation porcine embryos and various tissues. In this study, we showed thatPOU5F1transcribes its three variants, namelyOCT4A,OCT4B, andOCT4B1. TheOCT4Btranscript consists of exons identical to the major form of theOCT4variant,OCT4A, with a differential N-terminal domain-coding exon. The structure ofOCT4B1mRNA was the same as that ofOCT4BmRNA, but harbored a cryptic exon. Based on these findings, the transcription levels were investigated and found thatOCT4BandOCT4B1made up ∼20% among the variants in the embryonic stage and this indicates thatOCT4AmRNA is dominantly expressed during preimplantation embryo development. In addition,OCT4BmRNA was detected in all tissues examined, whileOCT4AandOCT4B1were detected only in testis but not in other tissues examined.OCT4B1showed inversely correlated expression withSOX2andNANOGexpression. OCT4A protein was specifically localized to the nuclei, whereas OCT4B was mainly localized to the cytoplasm of the porcine embryos at the blastocyst stage. The findings of this study reveal that the porcineOCT4gene can potentially encode three variants (OCT4A,OCT4B, andOCT4B1), and they are differentially expressed and would have roles dissimilar between each other in preimplantation embryos and various adult tissues.