bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sulfide geochronology along the Endeavour Segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge
Authors: Jamieson John W. , Hannington Mark D. , Clague David A. , Kelley Deborah S. , Delaney John R. , Holden James F. , Tivey Margaret K. , Kimpe Linda E.
Published: April 2013

Forty‐nine hydrothermal sulfide‐sulfate rock samples from the Endeavour Segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge, northeastern Pacific Ocean, were dated by measuring the decay of 226Ra (half‐life of 1600 years) in hydrothermal barite to provide a history of hydrothermal venting at the site over the past 6000 years. This dating method is effective for samples ranging in age from ∼200 to 20,000 years old and effectively bridges an age gap between shorter‐ and longer‐lived U‐series dating techniques for hydrothermal deposits. Results show that hydrothermal venting at the active High Rise, Sasquatch, and Main Endeavour fields began at least 850, 1450, and 2300 years ago, respectively. Barite ages of other inactive deposits on the axial valley floor are between ∼1200 and ∼2200 years old, indicating past widespread hydrothermal venting outside of the currently active vent fields. Samples from the half‐graben on the eastern slope of the axial valley range in age from ∼1700 to ∼2925 years, and a single sample from outside the axial valley, near the westernmost valley fault scarp is ∼5850 ± 205 years old. The spatial relationship between hydrothermal venting and normal faulting suggests a temporal relationship, with progressive younging of sulfide deposits from the edges of the axial valley toward the center of the rift. These relationships are consistent with the inward migration of normal faulting toward the center of the valley over time and a minimum age of onset of hydrothermal activity in this region of 5850 years.
Recent volcanic accretion at 9°N–10°N East Pacific Rise as resolved by combined geochemical and geological observations
Authors: Waters C. L. , Sims K. W. W. , Soule S. A. , Blichert‐Toft J. , Dunbar N.W. , Plank T. , Prytulak J. , Sohn R. A. , Tivey M. A.
Published: April 2013

The ridge crest at 9°N–10°N East Pacific Rise (EPR) is dominated by overlapping lava flows that have overflowed the axial summit trough and flowed off‐axis, forming a shingle‐patterned terrain up to ∼2–4 km on either side of the axial summit trough. In this study, we employ 230Th‐226Ra dating methods, in conjunction with geochemistry and seafloor geological observations, in an effort to discern the stratigraphic relationships between adjacent flows. We measured major and trace elements and 87Sr/86Sr, 143Nd/144Nd, 176Hf/177Hf, and 238U‐230Th‐226Ra for lava glass samples collected from several flow units up to ∼2 km away from the axial summit trough on the ridge crest at 9°50′N EPR. Statistical analysis of the 238U‐230Th‐226Ra data indicates that all but one measured sample from these flows cannot be resolved from the zero‐age population; thus, we cannot confidently assign model ages to samples for discerning stratigraphic relationships among flows. However, because groups of samples can be distinguished based on similarities in geochemical compositions, particularly incompatible element abundances with high precision‐normalized variability such as U and Th, and because the range of compositions is much greater than that represented by samples from the 1991–1992 and 2005–2006 eruptions, we suggest that the dive samples represent 6–10 eruptive units despite indistinguishable model ages. Geochemical variability between individual flows with similar ages requires relatively rapid changes in parental melt composition over the past ∼2 ka, and this likely reflects variations in the relative mixing proportions of depleted and enriched melts derived from a heterogeneous mantle source.
Age and sex differences in prevalence and clinical correlates of depression: first results from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing
Authors: Regan Claire O. , Kearney Patricia M. , Savva George M. , Cronin Hilary , Kenny Rose Anne
Published: April 2013

Objective

The risk of depression is increased by physical illness; however, the nature of this relationship is complex and unclear. Here, we explore the prevalence and clinical correlates of depression, with particular emphasis on factors representing consequences or physical manifestations of disease and identify age and gender differences in their effects.

Methods

A population‐representative sample of 8175 community‐dwelling adults aged 50 years and over participated in the first wave of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. The primary outcome measure was clinically significant depressive symptoms defined by a score of 16 or greater on the 20‐item Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale.

Results

Overall, 10% (95% CI: 9–11%) of adults reported clinically significant depressive symptoms. Physical illness is associated with depressive symptoms only in adults 65 years and older; in adults aged 50–64 years, the association is mediated by medication use, and this age difference is statistically significant (p < 0.00). Irrespective of age, chronic pain and incontinence were stronger predictors of depression in men (interaction effects p < 0.00)

Conclusions

Our findings identify age‐specific and gender‐specific clinical markers for depression risk among the older population, which may identify those more likely to present with depression in community settings. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Scoping review of the literature on shoulder impairments and disability after neck dissection
Authors: Goldstein David P. , Ringash Jolie , Bissada Eric , Jaquet Yves , Irish Jonathan , Chepeha Douglas , Davis Aileen M.
Published: April 2013

Background

The purpose of this article was to provide a review of the literature on shoulder disability after neck dissection.

Methods

A literature review was performed using Ovid Medline and Embase databases. A total of 306 abstracts and 78 full‐text articles were reviewed. Forty‐two articles were eligible for inclusion.

Results

Patients undergoing nerve‐sacrifice neck dissections have greater disability and lower quality of life scores than those undergoing neck dissections with the least manipulation (ie, selective neck dissections). Shoulder impairments can still occur in patients undergoing selective neck dissections. Disability typically improves over time in patients undergoing nerve‐sparing neck dissections.

Conclusion

There was significant variability in the literature in terms of the prevalence and recovery of shoulder morbidity after neck dissection. This variability may not just be related to surgical technique or rehabilitation, but also to study design, definitions, and the variability in disability questionnaires used. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 299–308, 2014
MHD boundary‐layer flow over a stretching surface with internal heat generation or absorption
Authors: Basiri Parsa A. , Rashidi M.M. , Hayat T.
Published: April 2013

This article is concerned with the steady laminar magnetohydrodynamic boundary‐layer flow past a stretching surface with uniform free stream and internal heat generation or absorption in an electrically conducting fluid. A constant magnetic field is applied in the transverse direction. A uniform free stream of constant velocity and temperature is passed over the sheet. The effects of free convection and internal heat generation or absorption are also considered. The governing boundary layer and temperature equations for this problem are first transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations using similarity variables, and then solved by a new analytical method and numerical method, by using a fourth‐order Runge–Kutta and shooting method. Velocity and temperature profiles are shown graphically. It is shown that the differential transform method solutions are only valid for small values of independent variables but the results obtained by the DTM‐Padé are valid for the entire solution domain with high accuracy. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/htj). DOI 10.1002/htj.21054
Mixed convection heat and mass transfer over a vertical plate in a power‐law fluid‐saturated porous medium with radiation and chemical reaction effects
Authors: Srinivasacharya D. , Swamy Reddy G.
Published: April 2013

Mixed convection heat and mass transfer from a vertical plate embedded in a power‐law fluid‐saturated Darcy porous medium with chemical reaction and radiation effects is studied. The governing partial differential equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations using similarity transformations and then solved numerically using the shooting method. A parametric study of the physical parameters involved in the problem is conducted and a representative set of numerical results is illustrated graphically. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/htj). DOI 10.1002/htj.21058
WATER PARTICLE KINEMATICS QUANTUM APPROACH: A CHALLENGE FOR SPRINKLER IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Authors: De Wrachien D. , Lorenzini G. , Mambretti S.
Published: April 2013

Designing a sprinkler irrigation plant is always associated with a full understanding of the kinematics of droplets during their aerial path. This requires a very complicated modelling of the problem, as many variables affect one another in contributing to the whole process. The literature offers different descriptive methods among which is the ballistic one, to which the authors have recently given a novel contribution, and which is also reported here. In addition to this, the present paper introduces two novel quantum approaches applied to describe droplet kinematics, based on the time‐dependent Schrödinger equation and on the Scale Relativity Theory. Such an idea not only completes the classical description with a mean more tightly describing the microscopic phenomenon but also gives a broadly applicable tool to describe the actual kinematics of water droplets in sprinkler irrigation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
EVALUATION FOR MEASURING IRRIGATION SERVICE PERFORMANCE USING A SCORECARD FRAMEWORK
Authors: Phadnis Sanjay S. , Kulshrestha Mukul
Published: April 2013

The present study has been proposed for scorecard‐based framework for measuring irrigation service performance using a few key selected indicators suggested by the Indian National Committee for Irrigation and Drainage and uses categories such as technical performance, agricultural production performance and financial performance to group the indicators appropriately. The work involved measuring project performance in terms of selected performance indicators and their integration into a scorecard. The methodology adopted for the study is to assign weights to indicators in conjunction with their scores on a devised scale, and evaluates category and performance scores by employing a spreadsheet. This methodology has been used for the Samrat Ashok Sagar major irrigation project, Madhya Pradesh, India, which is performing suboptimally and suggests the need for reforms in order to ensure that the irrigation services demonstrate sustainable operational performance. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inflammation‐induced hyperalgesia and spinal microglia reactivity in neonatal rats
Authors: Vega‐Avelaira D. , Ballesteros J.J. , López‐García J.A.
Published: April 2013

Background

Peripheral inflammation and nerve injury evoke pain behaviours in adult rodents mediated by sensitization, a process that involves the activation of microglia in the spinal cord. In neonates, however, peripheral inflammation, but not nerve injury, induces a lasting hyperalgesia. It is known that microglia does not activate after nerve injury in young pups; however, changes in microglia associated with inflammation in neonatal animals have not been studied.

Methods

Inflammation was induced by unilateral intraplantar injection of carrageenan, complete Freund's adjuvant or zymosan in 10‐day‐old rats. Rats were tested for mechanical sensitivity in response to punctuate stimulation of the dorsal surface of the hind paw using calibrated von Frey filaments. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect changes in size and density of microglial cells using the specific marker Iba‐1. The effects of minocycline applications (120 μg, i.t.) on spinal microglia and behaviour induced by zymosan inflammation were studied.

Results

Hind paw inflammation in young P10 rats, with either of the agents used, produced an immediate hyperalgesia, which lasted more than 7 days. A concomitant and significant increase in cell size and density in Iba‐1‐positive cells was observed in the spinal dorsal horn. These morphological changes in spinal microglia were observed as early as 1‐h post‐inflammation. Intrathecal and systemic administration of minocycline blocked the hyperalgesia and the changes in spinal microglia produced by zymosan.

Conclusions

Results suggest a key role for spinal microglia activation in the development of hyperalgesia following inflammation in neonatal animals.
ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT OF SOCIAL AVOIDANCE
Authors: Harper Jill M. , Iwata Brian A. , Camp Erin M.
Published: April 2013

Problem behavior maintained by social‐negative reinforcement often is evoked by a specific type of social interaction—the presentation of task demands. This study involved assessment and treatment of a more general form of social avoidance in which the establishing operation (EO) for problem behavior consisted of social interaction per se. Four subjects exhibited high rates of problem behavior during the play or demand conditions of a functional analysis (FA). A subsequent FA in which problem behavior produced escape from social interaction confirmed social avoidance for all subjects. A series of interventions aimed at attenuating aversive characteristics of social interaction then was implemented with 3 of the subjects. These interventions included vicarious reinforcement, conditioning of social interaction as a reinforcer, stimulus fading, and differential reinforcement (DRA) plus extinction (EXT). DRA plus EXT was the only condition in which decreases in problem behavior and increases in social interactions were observed reliably.
TEACHER‐CONDUCTED TRIAL‐BASED FUNCTIONAL ANALYSES AS THE BASIS FOR INTERVENTION
Authors: Bloom Sarah E. , Lambert Joseph M. , Dayton Elizabeth , Samaha Andrew L.
Published: April 2013

Previous studies have focused on whether a trial‐based functional analysis (FA) yields the same outcomes as more traditional FAs, and whether interventions based on trial‐based FAs can reduce socially maintained problem behavior. We included a full range of behavior functions and taught 3 teachers to conduct a trial‐based FA with 3 boys with developmental and intellectual disabilities who engaged in problem behavior. Based on the results of the trial‐based FAs, we developed and conducted 5 function‐based interventions, using differential reinforcement of an alternative behavior and extinction in all but 1 case. In the remaining case, we used noncontingent reinforcement. All interventions led to reductions in problem behavior and increases in alternative behavior.
A COMPONENT ANALYSIS OF SCHEDULE THINNING DURING FUNCTIONAL COMMUNICATION TRAINING
Authors: Betz Alison M. , Fisher Wayne W. , Roane Henry S. , Mintz Joslyn C. , Owen Todd M.
Published: April 2013

One limitation of functional communication training (FCT) is that individuals may request reinforcement via the functional communication response (FCR) at exceedingly high rates. Multiple schedules with alternating periods of reinforcement and extinction of the FCR combined with gradually lengthening the extinction‐component interval can effectively address this limitation. However, the extent to which each of these components contributes to the effectiveness of the overall approach remains uncertain. In the current investigation, we evaluated the first component by comparing rates of the FCR and problem behavior under mixed and multiple schedules and evaluated the second component by rapidly switching from dense mixed and multiple schedules to lean multiple schedules without gradually thinning the density of reinforcement. Results indicated that multiple schedules decreased the overall rate of reinforcement for the FCR and maintained the strength of the FCR and low rates of problem behavior without gradually thinning the reinforcement schedule.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS AND INTERVENTION FOR CHRONIC RUMINATION
Authors: Woods Kathryn E. , Luiselli James K. , Tomassone Shanon
Published: April 2013

We conducted a functional analysis and treatment evaluation of chronic rumination in a 19‐year‐old man with intellectual disabilities. Outcomes of the functional analysis suggested that rumination was maintained by automatic reinforcement. Results of the intervention evaluation suggested that (a) noncontingent access to food after meals reduced rumination more effectively than did noncontingent access to inedible stimuli, (b) a particular type of food was associated with lower levels of rumination than other types of food, and (c) both presession and continuous access to food reduced levels of rumination more effectively than did fixed‐time access to food.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS SCREENING FOR PROBLEM BEHAVIOR MAINTAINED BY AUTOMATIC REINFORCEMENT
Authors: Querim Angie C. , Iwata Brian A. , Roscoe Eileen M. , Schlichenmeyer Kevin J. , Ortega Javier Virués , Hurl Kylee E.
Published: April 2013

A common finding in previous research is that problem behavior maintained by automatic reinforcement continues to occur in the alone condition of a functional analysis (FA), whereas behavior maintained by social reinforcement typically is extinguished. Thus, the alone condition may represent an efficient screening procedure when maintenance by automatic reinforcement is suspected. We conducted a series of 5‐min alone (or no‐interaction) probes for 30 cases of problem behavior and compared initial predictions of maintenance or extinction to outcomes obtained in subsequent FAs. Results indicated that data from the screening procedure accurately predicted that problem behavior was maintained by automatic reinforcement in 21 of 22 cases and by social reinforcement in 7 of 8 cases. Thus, results of the screening accurately predicted the function of problem behavior (social vs. automatic reinforcement) in 28 of 30 cases.
EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS OF PRECURSORS TO SEVERE PROBLEM BEHAVIOR
Authors: Fritz Jennifer N. , Iwata Brian A. , Hammond Jennifer L. , Bloom Sarah E.
Published: April 2013

Some individuals engage in both mild and severe forms of problem behavior. Research has shown that when mild behaviors precede severe behaviors (i.e., the mild behaviors serve as precursors), they can (a) be maintained by the same source of reinforcement as severe behavior and (b) reduce rates of severe behavior observed during assessment. In Study 1, we developed an objective checklist to identify precursors via videotaped trials for 16 subjects who engaged in problem behavior and identified at least 1 precursor for every subject. In Study 2, we conducted separate functional analyses of precursor and severe problem behaviors for 8 subjects, and obtained correspondence between outcomes in 7 cases. In Study 3, we evaluated noncontingent reinforcement schedule thinning plus differential reinforcement of alternative behavior to reduce precursors, increase appropriate behavior, and maintain low rates of severe behavior during 3 treatment analyses for 2 subjects. Results showed that this treatment strategy was effective for behaviors maintained by positive and negative reinforcement.
THIRTY YEARS OF RESEARCH ON THE FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF PROBLEM BEHAVIOR
Authors: Beavers Gracie A. , Iwata Brian A. , Lerman Dorothea C.
Published: April 2013

Hanley, Iwata, and McCord (2003) reviewed studies published through 2000 on the functional analysis (FA) of problem behavior. We update that review for 2001 through 2012, including 158 more recent studies that reported data from 445 FAs. Combined with data obtained from Hanley et al., 435 FA studies, with line graphs for 981 FAs, have been published since 1961. We comment on recent trends in FA research and introduce the studies in the 2013 special issue of the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis.
RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY OF THE FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS SCREENING TOOL
Authors: Iwata Brian A. , DeLeon Iser G. , Roscoe Eileen M.
Published: April 2013

The Functional Analysis Screening Tool (FAST) is a 16‐item questionnaire about antecedent and consequent events that might be correlated with the occurrence of problem behavior. Items are organized into 4 functional categories based on contingencies that maintain problem behavior. We assessed interrater reliability of the FAST with 196 problem behaviors through independent administration to pairs of raters (Study 1). Mean item‐by‐item agreement between pairs of raters was 71.5%. Agreement for individual items ranged from 53.3% to 84.5%. Agreement on FAST outcomes, based on comparison of informants' highest totals, was 64.8%. We assessed the validity of the FAST by comparing its outcomes with results of 69 functional analyses (Study 2). The FAST score predicted the condition of the functional analysis in which the highest rate of problem behavior occurred in 44 cases (63.8%). Potential uses of the FAST in the context of a clinical interview, as well as limitations, are discussed.
Three‐dimensional pore structure analysis of polycaprolactone nano‐microfibrous scaffolds using theoretical and experimental approaches
Authors: Bagherzadeh Roohollah , Latifi Masoud , Kong Lingxue
Published: April 2013

In this article the pore structure and porosity parameters of polycaprolactone (PCL) nano‐microfibrous scaffolds are investigated using a predicting theoretical model and a nondestructive evaluation approach based on confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and three‐dimensional image analysis. Different fibrous scaffolds with different fiber diameters produced by electrospinning process and their 3D–pore structure were evaluated theoretically and also compared to results of CLSM and capillary flow porometery methods. The effect of polymer concentration on the pore structure of scaffolds was also investigated. The results showed that, the introduced approach not only can measure the pore size distribution of nanofibrous scaffolds, but also can measure pore interconnectivity of fibrous scaffolds. Furthermore, the results showed that increasing the fiber diameter resulted from increasing the polymer concentration in solvent can effectively increase the pore dimensions within the scaffold structure. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 903–910, 2014.
The effect of laser‐treated titanium surface on human gingival fibroblast behavior
Authors: Baltriukienė D. , Sabaliauskas V. , Balčiūnas E. , Melninkaitis A. , Liutkevičius E. , Bukelskienė V. , Rutkūnas V.
Published: April 2013

Surface modification, as a means of enhancing soft tissue integration in titanium would have significant advantages including less marginal bone resorption, predictable esthetic outcome, improved soft tissue stability, and seal against bacterial leakage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of laser‐roughened titanium surfaces on human gingival fibroblast (HGF) viability, proliferation, and adhesion. Titanium discs were ablated with impulse laser in four different patterns. Polished and sand‐blasted titanium discs were used as control groups. Specimen surface properties were determined using optical profilometry and scanning electron microscopy. HGF behavior on modified surfaces was analyzed using cell adhesion, viability, proliferation, and ELISA assays. Results suggested that modified Ti surfaces did not affect the viability of HGFs and improved adhesion was measured in laser treatment groups after 24 h. However, proliferation study showed that the adsorbance of fibroblast cells after 72 h cultured on polished titanium was higher and comparable with that of control cells. As for focal adhesion kinase (FAK), cells grown on laser modified surfaces had higher expression of FAK as compared with polished titanium. In conclusion, tested laser‐treated surfaces seem to favor HGF adhesion. There were no significant differences between different laser treatment groups. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 713–720, 2014.
The matricellular protein CCN1 suppresses lung cancer cell growth by inducing senescence via the p53/p21 pathway
Authors: Jim Leu Shr‐Jeng , Sung Jung‐Sung , Chen Mei‐Yu , Chen Chih‐Wei , Cheng Jian‐Yu , Wang Tse‐Yen , Wang Jeng‐Jung
Published: April 2013

CCN1, a secreted matrix‐associated molecule, is involved in multiple cellular processes. Previous studies have indicated that expression of CCN1 correlates inversely with the aggressiveness of non‐small‐cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC); however, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Using three NSCLC cell line systems, here we show that long‐term treatment of cells with the recombinant CCN1 protein led to a permanent cell cycle arrest in G1 phase; cells remained viable as judged by apoptotic assays. CCN1‐treated NSCLC cells acquired a phenotype characteristic of senescent cells, including an enlarged and flattened cell shape and expression of the senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase. Immunoblot analysis showed that addition of CCN1 increased the abundance of hypo‐phosphorylated Rb, as well as accumulation of p53 and p21. Silencing the expression of p53 or p21 by lentivirus‐mediated shRNA production in cells blocked the CCN1‐induced senescence. Furthermore, a CCN1 mutant defective for binding integrin α6β1 and co‐receptor heparan sulfate proteoglycans was incapable of senescence induction. Our finding that direct addition of CCN1 induces senescence in NSCLC cells provides a potential novel strategy for therapeutic intervention of lung cancers. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 2082–2093, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The inhibition of p85αPI3KSer83 phosphorylation prevents cell proliferation and invasion in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Feola Antonia , Cimini Annamaria , Migliucci Francesca , Iorio Rosamaria , Zuchegna Candida , Rothenberger Rodger , Cito Letizia , Porcellini Antonio , Unteregger Gerhard , Tombolini Vincenzo , Giordano Antonio , Di Domenico Marina
Published: April 2013

Phosphoinositide 3‐kinase proteins are composed by a catalytic p110 subunit and a regulatory p85 subunit. There are three classes of PI3K, named class I–III, on the bases of the protein domain constituting and determining their specificity. The first one is the best characterized and includes a number of key elements for the integration of different cellular signals. Regulatory p85 subunit shares with the catalytic p110 subunit, a N‐terminal SH3 domain showing homology with the protein domain Rho‐GTP‐ase. After cell stimulation, all class I PI3Ks are recruited to the inner face of the plasma membrane, where they generate phosphatidylinositol‐3,4,5‐trisphosphate by direct phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate. All pathways trigger the control of different phenomena such as cell growth, proliferation, apoptosis, adhesion and migration through various downstream effectors. We have previously provided direct evidences that a Serine in position 83, adjacent to the N‐terminal SH3 domain of regulatory subunit of PI3K, is a substrate of PKA. The aim of this work is to confirm the role of p85αPI3KSer83 in regulating cell proliferation, migration and invasion in prostate cancer cells LNCaP. To this purpose cells were transfected with mutant forms of p85, where Serine was replaced by Alanine, where phosphorylation is prevented, or Aspartic Acid, to mimic the phosphorylated residue. The findings of this study suggest that identifying a peptide mimicking the sequence adjacent to Ser 83 may be used to produce antibodies against this residue that can be proposed as usefool tool for prognosis by correlating phosphorylation at Ser83 with tumor stage. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 2114–2119, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gremlin aggravates hyperglycemia‐induced podocyte injury by a TGFβ/smad dependent signaling pathway
Authors: Li Guiying , Li Ying , Liu Shuxia , Shi Yonghong , Chi Yanqing , Liu Guijing , Shan Tieying
Published: April 2013

Gremlin is a bone morphogenic protein (BMP) antagonist and is elevated in diabetic kidney tissues. In the early course of diabetic nephropathy (DN), podocyte are injured. We studied the protein and gene expression of gremlin in mice podocytes cultured in hyperglycemia ambient. The role of gremlin on podocyte injury and the likely signaling pathways involved were determined. Expression of gremlin was visualized by confocal microscopy. Recombinant mouse gremlin and small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting to gremlin1 identified the role played by gremlin on podocytes. Study of canonical (smad2/3) and non‐canonical (p38MAPK and JNK1/2) transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ)/smad mediated signaling revealed the putative signaling mechanisms involved. Smad2/3 siRNA and TGFβ receptor inhibition (SB431542) were used to probe canonical TGFβ/smad signaling in gremlin‐induced podocyte injury. Apoptosis of podocytes was measured by TUNEL assay. Gremlin expression was enhanced in high glucose cultured mouse podocytes, and was localized predominantly in the cytoplasm and negligibly on the cell membrane. Not only expression of nephrin and synaptopodin were decreased on treatment with gremlin, but also synaptopodin rearrangement and nephrin relocalization were evident. Knockdown gremlin1 or smad2/3 by siRNA, and inhibition of TGFβR (SB431542) attenuated podocyte injury. Inhibition of canonical TGF‐β signal blocked the injury of gremlin on podocytes. In conclusion, gremlin was clearly elevated in high glucose cultured mouse podocytes, and likely employed endogenous canonical TGFβ1/Smad signaling to induce podocyte injury. Knockdown gremlin1 by siRNA may be clinically useful in the attenuation of podocyte injury. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 2101–2113, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Na+/H+ exchange is inactivated during mouse oocyte meiosis, facilitating glycine accumulation that maintains embryo cell volume
Authors: Zhou Chenxi , Fitzharris Greg , Alper Seth L. , Baltz Jay M.
Published: April 2013

The coupled action of the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE1 and the HCO3−/Cl− exchanger AE2 constitutes the principal mechanism for acute correction of decreased cell volume in mammalian somatic cells, while, when acting separately, they regulate intracellular pH. It was previously found that AE2 becomes inactivated during meiosis in mouse oocytes. Similarly, NHE1 activity stimulated by intracellular acidosis was present in preovulatory germinal vesicle stage (GV) mouse oocytes and then decreased during meiotic maturation. In contrast, NHE1 activity stimulated by decreased cell volume was low in GV oocytes but became active during meiotic maturation as the oocyte detached from the zona pellucida. It then decreased again in mature eggs similar to activity stimulated by acidosis. The subcellular localization of NHE1 was investigated with YFP‐tagged NHE1. Exogenous NHE1 expressed in GV oocytes localized to the plasma membrane and resulted in increased Na+/H+ exchanger activity, but only when co‐expressed with calcineurin homologous protein 1 (CHP1). When oocytes expressing functional NHE1 were matured to eggs, however, membrane localization of NHE1 and Na+/H+ exchanger activity were lost. It was unknown why NHE1 and AE2 activities are suppressed during meiotic maturation. Maintenance of cell volume in preimplantation embryos requires glycine accumulation via the GLYT1 transporter, a process unique to eggs and early embryos that is initiated during meiotic maturation. When NHE1 and AE2 activities were maintained in GV oocytes by exogenous expression, glycine accumulation was inhibited. We propose that NHE1‐mediated acute cell volume regulation is inactivated during meiotic maturation to allow preferential accumulation of glycine in eggs. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 2042–2053, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Epigallocatechin gallate inhibits growth and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition in human thyroid carcinoma cell lines
Authors: De Amicis Francesca , Perri Anna , Vizza Donatella , Russo Alessandra , Panno Maria Luisa , Bonofiglio Daniela , Giordano Cinzia , Mauro Loredana , Aquila Saveria , Tramontano Donatella , Andò Sebastiano
Published: April 2013

Well‐differentiated papillary and follicular thyroid carcinoma are the most frequent types of thyroid cancer and the prognosis is generally favorable however, a number of patients develops recurrences. Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), a major catechin in green tea, was shown to possess remarkable therapeutic potential against various types of human cancers, although data on thyroid cancer cells are still lacking. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of EGCG on the proliferation and motility of human thyroid papillary (FB‐2) and follicular (WRO) carcinoma cell lines. Our results demonstrate that EGCG (10, 40, 60 μM) treatment inhibited the growth of FB‐2 and WRO cells in a dose‐dependent manner. These changes were associated with reduced cyclin D1, increased p21 and p53 expression. Furthermore, EGCG suppressed phosphorylation of AKT and ERK1/2. In addition EGCG treatment results in reduction of cell motility and migration. Changes in motility and migration in FB‐2 were associated with modulation in the expression of several proteins involved in cell adhesion and reorganization of actin cytoskeleton. After 24 h EGCG caused an increase of the E‐cadherin expression and a concomitant decrease of SNAIL, ZEB and the basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor TWIST. Besides expression of Vimentin, N‐cadherin and α5‐integrin was down‐regulated. These data well correlate with a reduction of MMP9 activity as evidenced by gelatin zymography. Our findings support the inhibitory role of EGCG on thyroid cancer cell proliferation and motility with concomitant loss of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal cell transition markers. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 2054–2062, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Utilization of surface energetics approach to Understand protein interaction to ceramic hydroxyapatite
Authors: Aasim Muhammad , Bibi Noor Shad , Vennapusa Rami Reddy , Fernandez‐Lahore Marcelo
Published: April 2013

Background

A surface thermodynamics approach can be utilized to understand protein interaction during adsorption chromatography. Ceramic hydroxyapatite has been widely used in the purification of biomolecules during downstream bio‐processing. Protein interaction with this adsorbent is a complicated process.

Results

In this work, interaction between model proteins and an adsorbent (ceramic hydroxyapatite Type I) was studied via extended DLVO (Derjaguin, Landau, Verwey and Overbeek) theory. The surface energy parameters of proteins and adsorbent were determined from experimental contact angle and zeta potential values. In ceramic hydroxyapatite chromatography, protein adsorption takes place under mixed mode conditions i.e. cationic exchange and calcium chelation. The sample is loaded in low salt and eluted at increasing phosphate gradient. The XDLVO approach calculated the free energy of interaction as a function of distance, between the interacting surfaces under de‐binding conditions. The calculated interaction energy of the model proteins with CHT were correlated with the actual elution behavior. This revealed that all the proteins show minimum binding energies, i.e. |0.005| ± 0.002 kT under the observed conditions. These energy values are considered to be a cutoff between retaining and non‐retaining conditions. Higher energy values will explain binding and lower energies will explain elution (binding > |0.005| kT > elution).

Conclusion

Knowledge generated from these studies will assist understanding of adsorption of proteins to the process supports which could facilitate better bioprocess design and optimization. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Conspecific Brood Parasitism in the White‐faced Ibis Plegadis chihi (Aves: Pelecaniformes) Revealed by Microsatellites' Based Kinship‐Reconstruction
Authors: de CASTRO e Souza ANDIARA SILOS MORAES , DEL LAMA SILVIA NASSIF , MIÑO CAROLINA ISABEL
Published: April 2013

The white‐faced ibis Plegadis chihi Vieillot, 1817 (Pelecaniformes: Threskiornithidae) is a socially monogamous colonially breeding bird in which behavioral and ecological observations suggest the occurrence of conspecific brood parasitism (CBP). We inferred aspects of the genetic mating system of P. chihi in nature, using a genetic approach in the absence of parental information. We used five heterologous microsatellite loci and a multiple‐step methodological approach to infer kinship patterns among 104 pairs of nestlings sampled inside 80 nests in a breeding colony from southern Brazil. The estimated effective population size was 69 white‐faced ibises (95% CI: 50–98), enough to ensure long‐term population survival. Kinship patterns were identified for 38% of the analyzed pairs: 60% of the diagnosed pairs were identified as full‐siblings, 2.5% as half‐siblings and 37.5% as unrelated individuals. CBP could explain the presence of unrelated nestlings within broods, in agreement with available non‐genetic evidence. The presence of half‐siblings within broods could indicate extra‐pair paternity. Results suggest that a non‐strictly monogamous genetic mating system may be present in the white‐faced ibis. This study is the first molecular approach to better characterize the reproductive behavior of P. chihi in the wild. Our findings set the stage for further research to investigate the possible causes and consequences of alternative reproductive strategies in this species. J. Exp. Zool. 319A:277–284, 2013. © 2013 © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biomolecular Identification of Beta‐Defensin‐Like Peptides From the Skin of the Soft‐Shelled Turtle Apalone spinifera
Authors: BENATO F. , DALLA VALLE L. , SKOBO T. , ALIBARDI L.
Published: April 2013

Numerous bacteria are frequently observed in the superficial corneocytes forming the corneous layer of the soft‐shelled turtle Apalona spinifera. The resistance to bacterial penetration through the living epidermis in this turtle suggests the presence of an antimicrobial barrier, possibly derived from the presence of anti‐microbial peptides in the epidermis. Four beta‐defensin‐like peptides, named As‐BD‐1 to 4, have been characterized from skin tissues using molecular and bioinformatics methods. The precursor peptides contain the beta‐defensin motif with the typical cysteine localization pattern. The analysis of the expression for the four different beta‐defensin‐like proteins show that these molecules are expressed in the skin (epidermis and dermis) of the carapace, neck, digit, and tail but are apparently not expressed in the liver or intestine under normal conditions. These data suggest that in the skin of the soft‐shelled turtle there are potential effective anti‐microbial peptides against epidermal bacteria. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 320B:210–217, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Two‐step radiosynthesis of [18F]FE‐β‐CIT and [18F]PR04.MZ
Authors: Riss Patrick J. , Hoehnemann Sabine , Piel Markus , Roesch Frank
Published: April 2013

The cocaine‐derived dopamine reuptake inhibitors FE‐β‐CIT (8‐(2‐fluoroethyl)‐3‐(4‐iodophenyl)‐8‐azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane‐2‐carboxylic acid methyl ester) (1) and PR04.MZ(8‐(4‐fluorobut‐2‐ynyl)‐3‐p‐tolyl‐8‐azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane‐2‐carboxylic acid methyl ester) (2) were labelled with 18F‐fluorine using a two‐step route. 2‐[18F]Fluoroethyltosylate and 4‐[18F]fluorobut‐2‐yne‐1‐yl tosylate were used as labelling reagents, respectively. Radiochemically pure (>98%) [18F]FE‐β‐CIT and [18F]PRD04.MZ (32–86 GBq/µmol) were obtained after a synthesis time of 100 min in about 25% non‐decay‐corrected overall yield.
Exploring Instructional Strategies in Student Leadership Development Programming
Authors: Jenkins Daniel M.
Published: April 2013

The author explored 24 commonly used instructional strategies in student leadership development programming recently profiled in the leadership education literature. Through a national web‐based survey, this study asked leadership educators teaching classroom‐based academic credit‐bearing undergraduate leadership studies courses how often they used certain instructional strategies. Leadership educators showed a preference for discussion‐based pedagogies as well as instructional strategies that promoted conceptual understanding and personal growth. Although the infrequent use of tests and quizzes in leadership education was anticipated, the sparse use of highly experiential skill‐building activities such as simulation, role play, and games was surprising.
Effectiveness of MR angiography for the primary diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism: Clinical outcomes at 3 months and 1 year
Authors: Schiebler Mark L. , Nagle Scott K. , François Christopher J. , Repplinger Michael D. , Hamedani Azita G. , Vigen Karl K. , Yarlagadda Rajkumar , Grist Thomas M. , Reeder Scott B.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

To determine the effectiveness of MR angiography for pulmonary embolism (MRA‐PE) in symptomatic patients.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients whom were evaluated for possible pulmonary embolism (PE) using MRA‐PE. A 3‐month and 1‐year from MRA‐PE electronic medical record (EMR) review was performed. Evidence for venous thromboembolism (VTE) (or death from PE) within the year of follow‐up was the outcome surrogate for this study.

Results

There were 190 MRA‐PE exams performed with 97.4% (185/190) of diagnostic quality. There were 148 patients (120 F: 28 M) that had both a diagnostic MRA‐PE exam and 1 complete year of EMR follow‐up. There were 167 patients (137 F: 30 M) with 3 months or greater follow‐up. We found 83% (139/167) and 81% (120/148) MRA‐PE exams negative for PE at 3 months and 1 year, respectively. Positive exams for PE were seen in 14% (23/167). During the 1‐year follow‐up period, five patients (false negative) were diagnosed with DVT (5/148 = 3.4 %), and one of these patients also experienced a non–life‐threatening PE. The negative predictive value (NPV) for MRA‐PE was 97% (92–99; 95% CI) at 3 months and 96% (90–98; 95% CI) with 1 year of follow‐up.

Conclusion

The NPV of MRA‐PE, when used for the primary diagnosis of pulmonary embolism in symptomatic patients, were found to be similar to the published values for CTA‐PE. In addition, the technical success rate and safety of MRA‐PE were excellent. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:914–925. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Noninvasive automated motion assessment of intestinal motility by continuously tagged MR imaging
Authors: van der Paardt Marije P. , Sprengers André M.J. , Zijta Frank M. , Lamerichs Rolf , Nederveen Aart J. , Stoker Jaap
Published: April 2013

Purpose

To evaluate continuously tagged 3 Tesla MRI for monitoring glucagon‐induced bowel motility changes in healthy volunteers.

Materials and Methods

After standardized oral bowel preparation, 10 healthy volunteers underwent a free‐breathing, continuously tagged three‐dimensional (3D) dynamic fast‐field‐echo (FFE), at a 3.36 Hz sampling frequency. One milligram of glucagon was administered intravenously during data acquisition. Each dataset was divided into four temporal sets of 2 min (period 1 to 4). Taglines were tracked automatically using a scale spaced based algorithm. Assessment of global spectral resolution was performed for three frequency intervals: 0.008–0.300 Hz (motility), 0.300–0.400 Hz (breathing motion), and 0.400–0.533 Hz (higher order motion). Additional analyses were performed at fine spectral resolution in frequency bands of 0.033 Hz. Glucagon‐induced motility changes were investigated by means of a motility index (spectral power normalized to the maximal spectral power per‐volunteer), resulting in a range of 0 to 1 (no motion to maximal motion). Statistical comparison was done for period 1 and 4 (Wilcoxon‐signed rank test).

Results

After glucagon administration, a significant decrease in the motility index was found for the low‐ (0.008–0.300 Hz) (P < 0.0001) and high‐frequency interval (0.400–0.533 Hz) (P < 0.0001). Around breathing motion frequencies, no decrease in motility index was detected.

Conclusion

Free‐breathing, continuously tagged MR imaging is a noninvasive method for automated bowel motility assessment and allows for detection of drug‐induced changes. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;39:9–16. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diffusion tensor imaging of extraocular muscle using two‐dimensional single‐shot interleaved multiple inner volume imaging diffusion‐weighted EPI at 3 tesla
Authors: Seo Hyung Suk , Kim Seong‐Eun , Rose John , Hadley J. Rock , Parker Dennis L. , Jeong Eun‐Kee
Published: April 2013

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for the medial and lateral rectus extraocular muscle (EOM) evaluation, to investigate the normal DTI parameters of the medial and lateral rectus EOM, and to compare with other skeletal muscle.

Materials and Methods

Seven multiple sclerosis patients and five normal subjects (M:F = 5:7, mean age = 31.6 ± 9.2) without EOM disorder were included. The orbital DTIs using 2D‐ss‐IMVI‐DWEPI were scanned with b = 500 s/mm2 and 12 directions. The mean diffusivity (MD) and fractional anisotrophy (FA) of medial and lateral rectus EOMs in both orbits, and temporalis muscles were measured in regions of interest on two consecutive axial slices. Student t‐test was performed to compare the mean apparent diffusion coefficient and FA values between medial and lateral rectus EOMs, and between EOMs and temporalis muscles.

Results

The MDs in medial (0.58 ± 0.18 × 10−3mm2/s) and lateral rectus EOMs (0.71 ± 0.18 × 10−3mm2/s) were significantly lower than temporalis muscle (0.84 ± 0.14 × 10−3 mm2/s) (P < 0.001, respectively). The MD in medial rectus EOM was significantly lower than lateral rectus EOM (P = 0.001). The FAs in medial (0.40 ± 0.05) and lateral rectus EOMs (0.40 ± 0.05) were significantly higher than temporalis muscle (0.25 ± 0.05) (P < 0.001, respectively). There was no significant difference between the FAs in medial and lateral rectus EOMs (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The MDs of EOMs were lower and the FAs were higher than those of skeletal muscle. These are well correlated to the unique characteristics of EOMs. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:1162–1168. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Software‐assisted small bowel motility analysis using free‐breathing MRI: Feasibility study
Authors: Bickelhaupt Sebastian , Froehlich Johannes M. , Cattin Roger , Raible Stephan , Bouquet Hanspeter , Bill Urs , Patak Michael A.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

To validate a software prototype allowing for small bowel motility analysis in free breathing by comparing it to manual measurements.

Materials and Methods

In all, 25 patients (15 male, 10 female; mean age 39 years) were included in this Institutional Review Board‐approved, retrospective study. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on a 1.5T system after standardized preparation acquiring motility sequences in free breathing over 69–84 seconds. Small bowel motility was analyzed manually and with the software. Functional parameters, measurement time, and reproducibility were compared using the coefficient of variance and paired Student's t‐test. Correlation was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient and linear regression.

Results

The 25 segments were analyzed twice both by hand and using the software with automatic breathing correction. All assessed parameters significantly correlated between the methods (P < 0.01), but the scattering of repeated measurements was significantly (P < 0.01) lower using the software (3.90%, standard deviation [SD] ± 5.69) than manual examinations (9.77%, SD ± 11.08). The time needed was significantly less (P < 0.001) with the software (4.52 minutes, SD ± 1.58) compared to manual measurement, lasting 17.48 minutes for manual (SD ± 1.75 minutes).

Conclusion

The use of the software proves reliable and faster small bowel motility measurements in free‐breathing MRI compared to manual analyses. The new technique allows for analyses of prolonged sequences acquired in free breathing, improving the informative value of the examinations by amplifying the evaluable data. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;39:17–23. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.