bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of collaborative care on survival time for dogs with congestive heart failure and revenue for attending primary care veterinarians
Authors: Lefbom Bonnie K. , Peckens Neal K.
Published: June 2016

OBJECTIVE To assess the effects of in-person collaborative care by primary care veterinarians (pcDVMs) and board-certified veterinary cardiologists (BCVCs) on survival time of dogs after onset of congestive heart failure (CHF) and on associated revenue for the attending pcDVMs.

DESIGN Retrospective cohort study.

ANIMALS 26 small-breed dogs treated for naturally occurring CHF secondary to myxomatous mitral valve disease at a multilocation primary care veterinary hospital between 2008 and 2013.

PROCEDURES Electronic medical records were reviewed to identify dogs with confirmed CHF secondary to myxomatous mitral valve disease and collect information on patient care, survival time, and pcDVM revenue. Data were compared between dogs that received collaborative care from the pcDVM and a BCVC and dogs that received care from the pcDVM alone.

RESULTS Dogs that received collaborative care had a longer median survival time (254 days) than did dogs that received care from the pcDVM alone (146 days). A significant positive correlation was identified between pcDVM revenue and survival time for dogs that received collaborative care (ie, the longer the dog survived, the greater the pcDVM revenue generated from caring for that patient).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Findings suggested that collaborative care provided to small-breed dogs with CHF by a BCVC and pcDVM could result in survival benefits for affected dogs and increased revenue for pcDVMs, compared with care provided by a pcDVM alone.
Readers’ Emotions: A Plurilingual Perspective
Authors: Rivière Marie
Published: June 2016

This article focuses on the differential emotional power of languages in the book-reading practices of plurilingual readers. Within a plurilingual perspective, it aims at adding nuance to the “emotional contexts of learning hypothesis” and the “theory of language embodiment”. This qualitative study is based on semi-structured interviews with 24 adult plurilingual readers living in Catalonia, Ile-de-France, French Basque Country, and western Switzerland. Some of the participants indicate that they have felt intense emotions while reading in languages they did not learn and do not use in highly emotional contexts. It can be inferred that cultural goods consumption, among other factors, may affect the emotional force of languages. Difficulties expressed by participants in feeling intense emotions or in appreciating books in family languages that are dominated languages – according to Bourdieu’s conception of dominant and dominated languages – suggest that sociolinguistic inequalities may also be of crucial importance in reading-language emotionality.
Grammar Correction in the Writing Centre: Expectations and Experiences of Monolingual and Multilingual Writers
Authors: Eckstein Grant
Published: June 2016

Although most writing centres maintain policies against providing grammar correction during writing tutorials, it is undeniable that students expect some level of grammar intervention there. Just how much students expect and receive is a matter of speculation. This article examines the grammar-correction issue by reporting on a survey of L1, L2, and Generation 1.5 (Gen 1.5) writing-centre attendees. Results reveal that while all groups expected grammar help, L2 students expected the most. In addition, L1 and Gen 1.5 writers reported receiving more grammar help than they expected. These findings suggest that tutors may not distinguish the language needs of L1 writers from those of Gen 1.5 and L2 writers; meanwhile, they may generally provide more grammar support to all tutees than writing-centre training and ideology recommend. The findings of this study may help writing centres craft more nuanced grammar policies and provide critical tutor training to better match students’ needs and expectations.
Exercise Telemonitoring and Telerehabilitation Compared with Traditional Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chan Christen , Yamabayashi Cristiane , Syed Nafeez , Kirkham Ashley , Camp Pat G.
Published: June 2016

Background: Despite exercise capacity and quality-of-life benefits, pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) and cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programmes are not easily accessed because of several barriers. A solution may be telerehabilitation (TR), in which patients exercise in their communities while they are monitored via teletechnology. However, the benefits of TR for the purposes of PR and CR have not been systematically reviewed. Objective: To determine whether the benefits of the exercise component of PR and CR using TR are comparable to usual-care (UC) programmes. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed of the Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases up to July 13, 2015. Meta-analyses were performed for peak oxygen consumption, peak workload, exercise test duration, and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) distance using the I2 statistic and forest plots displaying standardized mean difference (SMD). Results: Of 1,431 citations found, 8 CR studies met the inclusion criteria. No differences were found in exercise outcomes between UC and TR groups for CR studies, except in exercise test duration, which slightly favoured UC (SMD 0.268, 95% CI: 0.002, 0.534, p<0.05). Only 1 PR study was included, and it showed similar improvements on the 6MWT between the UC and TR groups. Conclusion: TR for patients with cardiac conditions provided benefits similar to UC with no adverse effects reported. Similar studies of TR for patients with pulmonary conditions need to be conducted.
Inter-Professional Practices of Private-Sector Physiotherapists for Low Back Pain Management: Who, How, and When?
Authors: Perreault Kadija , Dionne Clermont E. , Rossignol Michel , Poitras Stéphane , Morin Diane
Published: June 2016

Purpose: Although there have been increasing demands for health care providers to take part in inter-professional practices in recent years, very little attention has been paid to the actualization of such practices in the private sector. This study describes private-sector physiotherapists' inter-professional practices regarding low back pain (LBP) management and identifies organizational and provider-level variables associated with the intensity of such practices. Method: A total of 327 randomly selected physiotherapists were surveyed in the province of Quebec. Data were analyzed using descriptive and multiple regression analyses. Results: Physiotherapists reported frequent interactions with other physiotherapists (daily/weekly for 52.6%), family physicians (51.0%), and physiotherapy (PT) assistants (45.2%), but infrequent interactions with psychologists (3.6%), neurosurgeons (0.9%), and chiropractors (0.3%). Frequently reported means of interactions were written and oral messages sent through clients (55.1% and 24.1%, respectively), face-to-face unplanned discussions (41.9%), and faxed or mailed letters (23.2%). Variables associated with the intensity of inter-professional practices (mean of 6.7 [SD 1.7] out of 10 on the Intensity of Interprofessional Practices Questionnaire for Private Sector Physiotherapists) were related to physiotherapists' clientele, social activities with other providers, and perceptions of inter-professional practices as well as organizational models, vision, and provision of PT training. Conclusions: There is room to improve inter-professional practices with private-sector physiotherapists involved in managing LBP. Targets for action include physiotherapists and their workplaces.
Factors Associated with Reduced Perceived Access to Physiotherapy Services among People with Low Back Disorders
Authors: Bath Brenna , Jakubowski Megan , Mazzei Darren , McRae Jessica , McVittie Natalie , Stewart Sarah , Grona Stacey Lovo
Published: June 2016

Purpose: To explore which socio-demographic, clinical, and other factors are associated with reduced perceived access to physiotherapy among people with low back disorders. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to evaluate perceived access to physiotherapy services in a convenience sample of 111 people with low back disorders presenting to a spinal triage service. Participants were asked whether they felt that they had reduced access to physiotherapy as a result of cost, wait time, or location. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to explore the association between perceived access to physiotherapy and a range of socio-demographic, clinical, and other factors. Results: Overall reduced perceived access to physiotherapy was reported by 27.9% of the sample; 13.5% reported reduced access resulting from cost, 9.9% from wait time, and 10.8% from location. A variety of socio-demographic and clinical variables were found to be associated with reduced perceived access, including the presence of other health conditions, rural residence, and no prior physiotherapy use. Conclusion: Perceived access to physiotherapy among people with low back disorders may be associated with a diverse range of factors. Further research is required to determine the relationship between these variables and actual use of physiotherapy services.
Subchannel analysis and correlation of the Rod Bundle Heat Transfer (RBHT) steam cooling experimental data
Authors: Riley M. P. , Mohanta L. , Miller D. J. , Cheung F. B. , Bajorek S. M. , Tien K. , Hoxie C. L.
Published: June 2016

A subchannel analysis of the steam cooling data obtained in the Rod Bundle Heat Transfer (RBHT) test facility has been performed in this study to capture the effect of spacer grids on heat transfer. The RBHT test facility has a 7 × 7 rod bundle with heater rods and with seven spacer grids equally spaced along the length of the rods. A method based on the concept of momentum and heat transport analogy has been developed for calculating the subchannel bulk mean temperature from the measured steam temperatures. Over the range of inlet Reynolds number, the local Nusselt number was found to exhibit a minimum value between the upstream and downstream spacer grids. The presence of a spacer grid not only affects the local Nusselt number downstream of the grid but also affects the local Nusselt number upstream of the next grid. A new correlation capturing the effect of Reynolds number on the local flow restructuring downstream as well as upstream of the spacer grids was proposed for the minimum Nusselt number. In addition, a new enhancement factor accounting for the effects of the upstream as well as downstream spacer grids was developed from the RBHT data. The new enhancement factor was found to compare well with the data from the ACHILLLES test facility.
Reflood experiments in rod bundles with flow blockages due to clad ballooning
Authors: Moon S. K. , Kim J. , Kim K. , Kim B. J. , Park J. K. , Youn Y. J. , Choi H. S. , Song C. H.
Published: June 2016

Clad ballooning and the resulting partial flow blockage are one of the major thermal-hydraulic concerns associated with the coolability of partially blocked cores during a loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA). Several in-pile tests have shown that fuel relocation causes a local power accumulation and a high thermal coupling between the clad and fuel debris in the ballooned regions. However, previous experiments in the 1980s did not take into account the fuel relocation phenomena and resulting local power increase in the ballooned regions. The present paper presents the results of systematic investigations on the coolability of rod bundles with flow blockages. The experiments were mainly performed in 5 × 5 rod bundles, 2 × 2 rod bundles and other test facilities. The experiments include a reflood heat transfer, single-phase convective heat transfer, flow redistributions phenomena, and droplet break-up behavior. The effects of the fuel relocation and resulting local power increase were investigated using a 5 × 5 rod bundle. The fuel relocation phenomena increase the peak cladding temperature.
Cynotophyllosides K-L from the Roots of Cynanchum Otophyllum
Authors: Pang Wei-Wei , Zheng Yang , Qian Hao-Ying , Ma Lie-Feng , Wang Fa-Song , Shan Wei-Guang , Zhan Zha-Jun
Published: June 2016

Two new C21 steroidal glycosides named as cynotophyllosides K-L, were isolated from the roots of Cynanchum otophyllum, together with three known steroids cynotophylloside H, sarcostin and deacetylmetaplexigenim. The structure of the new compounds were established by spectroscopic and chemical analyses, especially 2D NMR techniques.
Lung cancer inhibitory activity of dietary berries and berry polyphenolics
Authors: Aqil Farrukh , Jeyabalan Jeyaprakash , Kausar Hina , Munagala Radha , Singh Inder Pal , Gupta Ramesh
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND: Blueberry (BB) and black raspberry (BRB) have been shown to be chemopreventive against estrogen-mediated breast cancer in pre-clinical studies. However, therapeutic efficacy of these berries against lung cancer is not known.

METHODS: In this study we investigated i) relative efficacy of individual anthocyanidins vs. respective anthocyanins, ii) relative antiproliferative activity of mixture of anthocyanidins compared to individual anthocyanidins, iii) antitumor activity of dietary BB, iv) Tumor inhibitory activity of diet supplemented with BB, alone and in combination with BRB, against lung tumor xenograft using nude mice, and finally, v) the efficacy of select polyphenolics present in BB and BRB against lung tumor xenograft.

RESULTS: Our findings indicated that individual anthocyanidins (aglycones) were significantly more potent (2-3 fold lower IC50) in inhibiting the non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell growth vs. respective anthocyanins (glycones). Further, anthocyanidins mixture at equimolar concentrations exhibited synergistic antiproliferative activity vs. individual anthocyanidins. When tested against NSCLC (A549 and H1299) cells in nude mice, dietary BB (7.5%, w/w) showed >40% reduction in tumor volume against H1299 xenografts. The maximal growth inhibition occurred with 5% BB dose, with no additional protection occurring at a higher dose (7.5%). However, somewhat lower protection was found when the BB diet initiated prior to tumor cell inoculation. The mixture of BB (5%, w/w) and BRB (2.5%) resulted in higher inhibition of tumor growth vs. BB alone (71% vs 42%). Likewise, a combination of delphinidin (bioactive of BB) and punicalagins (a bioactive of BRB, which gets converted to ellagic acid in vivo) showed higher tumor growth inhibition compared to delphinidin.

CONCLUSIONS: The therapeutic effects of the berries and berry polyphenolics observed against lung cancer in this study are highly encouraging. Further investigation into the mechanism of action of the combinations of the berry bioactives will be valuable for clinical use of this potent natural product against lung cancer.
Black raspberries in cancer clinical trials: Past, present and future
Authors: Kresty Laura A. , Mallery Susan R. , Stoner Gary D.
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND: Black raspberries (BRB) inhibit a broad range of cancers in preclinical models, including in vivo models of oral, esophageal, colon, breast and skin cancer. Promising preclinical results have led to clinical evaluations in cancer patients or patients at increased risk for cancer development.

OBJECTIVE: To summarize clinical investigations targeting cancer or precancerous lesions with BRB and discuss future directions.

METHODS: A thorough literature search was conducted through December 1, 2015 to identify all published studies evaluating BRB in cancer focused clinical trials.

RESULTS: Research investigating BRB in clinical settings report positive effects on preneoplastic lesions or cancers of the oral cavity, esophagus and colon. BRB treatment resulted in: histologic regression of oral intraepithelial neoplasia associated with improved histologic grade and significantly reduced loss of heterozygosity at tumor suppressor gene loci, modulated genes linked to RNA processing and growth factor recycling; in the colon, BRB inhibited FAP-associated polyp progression, demethylated tumor suppressor genes and improved plasma cytokine profiles; in Barrett’s patients, BRB consumption increased tissue levels of GST-pi and decreased 8-isoprostane, a marker of lipid peroxidation/oxidative stress.

CONCLUSIONS: The precise dose, duration and optimum mode of BRB delivery for cancer inhibition remains to be fully elucidated. Common themes across studies support that BRB are anti-proliferative, anti- inflammatory, reduce oxidative stress and restore tumor suppressive activity. Future directions are included in the conclusions section.
Wild blueberries attenuate risk factors of the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Klimis-Zacas Dorothy , Vendrame Stefano , Kristo Aleksandra S.
Published: June 2016

The ability of a wild blueberry-enriched diet to improve risk factors related to Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) such as endothelial dysfunction and chronic inflammation in the Obese Zucker Rat (OZR), a model of the MetS, was studied.

Obese Zucker Rats (OZRs) and their lean controls (LZR) were placed either on a Wild Blueberry-enriched (WB) or a control (C) diet for 8 weeks. Obese Zucker rats exhibited reduced vasoconstrictor response to phenylephrine (Phe) and exaggerated vasorelaxant response to acetylcholine (Ach). WB diet partially restored Phe-induced constrictor responses and attenuated Ach-induced relaxant responses in OZR. Plasma nitric oxide (NO) was significantly attenuated and aortic effluent prostaglandin I2 PGI2 concentration significantly increased in the WB diet. Downregulation of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in the OZR aorta was observed in the WB diet.

WB consumption decreased plasma concentrations of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- α (–25.6%, P < 0.05), interleukin (IL)-6 (–14.9%, P < 0.05), C-reactive protein (CRP) (–13.1%, P < 0.05) and increased adiponectin concentration (+21.8%, P < 0.05). Expression of IL-6, TNF- α and nuclear factor (NF)-kB was downregulated in both the liver (–65%, –59% and –25%, respectively) and the abdominal adipose tissue (–64%, –52% and –65%), while CRP expression was downregulated only in the liver (–25%). Thus, WB consumption improved endothelial function and exerted an anti-inflammatory effect in the OZR.
Effect of drought stress on gas exchange characteristics of four soybean genotypes
Authors: Chowdhury JA , Karim MA , Khaliq QA , Ahmed AU , Khan MSA
Published: June 2016

An experiment was conducted in a venylhouse at the environmental stress site of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur during September to December 2012 to determine the changes of photosynthesis and some related traits under drought stress in soybean genotypes. Four studied genotypes viz. Shohag, BARI Soybean 6 and BD2331 (relatively stress tolerant) and BGM2026 (susceptible) were tested against two water regimes such as water stress and non-stress. Results indicated that gas exchange characteristics were positively correlated with plant growth. Photosynthesis and stomatal conductance showed more reduction in susceptible genotypes than the tolerant ones. Transpiration rate was found minimal in tolerant genotypes. Changes in leaf growth attributes of the four selected genotypes were compared under drought (water) stress conditions which is one of the major plant parts related to gas exchange. Generally, drought stress decreased the leaf area more in susceptible genotype than tolerant genotype. From the result, genotype BGM2026 which recorded the lowest photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, leaf area but highest transpiration rate was considered as drought susceptible whereas BARI Soybean-6, Shohag and BD2331 were more drought stress tolerant which have better mechanisms of drought tolerance.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 41(2): 195-205, June 2016
Variability and path co-efficient for yield and yield components in rice
Authors: Sameera Sk , Srinivas T , Rajesh AP , Jayalakshmi V , Nirmala PJ
Published: June 2016

Twenty five rice varieties were evaluated for their variability with regard to yield and yield components. Estimates of heritability and genetic advance as per cent mean were also obtained for the above traits. In addition, studies on character associations and path co-efficients were also undertaken. The results revealed high variability, heritability and genetic advance as per cent mean for productive tillers per plant, number of tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle and number of filled grains per panicle, while days to maturity was recorded with high heritability coupled with low genetic advance as per cent of mean. Further, yield was observed to be positively associated with number of tillers per plant, productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle and number of filled grains per panicle. Among these, number of tillers per plant, productive tillers per plant and number of filled grains per panicle were noticed to exert high direct effects on grain yield per plant. High indirect effects of most of the traits were noticed mostly through productive tillers per plant indicating importance of the trait as selection criteria in crop yield improvement programmes.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 41(2): 259-271, June 2016
Effect of storage duration on the stored pupae of parasitoid Bracon hebetor (Say) and its impact on parasitoid quality
Authors: Alam MS , Alam MZ , Alam SN , Miah MRU , Mian MIH
Published: June 2016

The ecto-endo larval parasitoid, Bracon hebetor (Say) is an important biocontrol agent. Effective storage methods for B. hebetor are essential for raising its success as a commercial bio-control agent against lepidopteran pests. The study was undertaken to determine the effect of storage duration on the pupae of Bracon hebetor in terms of pupal survival, adult emergence, percent parasitism, female and male longevity, female fecundity and sex ratio. Three to four days old pupae were stored for 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 weeks at 4 ± 1oC. The ranges of time for adult emergence from stored pupae, production of total adult, survivability of pupae, parasitism of host larvae by the parasitoid, longevity of adult female and male and fecundity were 63.0 -7.5 days, 6.8-43.8/50 host larvae, 13.0-99.5%, 0.0 -97.5%, 0.00-20.75 days, 0.00-17.25 days and 0.00- 73.00/50 female, respectively. The time of adult emergence and mortality of pupae increased but total number of adult emergence, survivability of pupae, longevity of adult female and male decreased gradually with the progress of storage period of B. hebetor pupae. The prevalence of male was always higher than that of female. Therefore, short-term storage of B. hebetor pupae could be stored for up to 4 weeks without disturbing the functioning of the parasitoid. It is important for sustaining and accumulating large numbers of parasitoids in mass rearing programs and subsequent use of field application.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 41(2): 297-310, June 2016
Keats, Myth, and the Science of Sympathy
Authors: Tate Gregory
Published: June 2016

This essay considers the connections between myth and sympathy in Keats's poetic theory and practice. It argues that the ‘Ode to Psyche’ exemplifies the way in which Keats uses mythological narrative, and the related trope of apostrophe, to promote a restrained form of sympathy, which preserves an objectifying distance between the poet and the feelings that his poetry examines. This model of sympathy is informed by Keats's medical training: the influential surgeon Astley Cooper and The Hospital Pupil's Guide (1816) both identify a sensitive but restrained sympathy for patients' suffering as an essential part of the scientific and professional methods of nineteenth-century medicine. However, while The Hospital Pupil's Guide claims that mythological superstition has been superseded in medicine by positivist science, Keats's ode suggests that myth retains a central role in poetry, as the foundation of a poetic method that mediates between imaginative sympathy and objective impartiality.
Optimal Scheduling of Energy Storage System for Self-Sustainable Base Station Operation Considering Battery Wear-Out Cost
Authors: Choi Yohwan , Kim Hongseok
Published: June 2016

A self-sustainable base station (BS) where renewable resources and energy storage system (ESS) are interoperably utilized as power sources is a promising approach to save energy and operational cost in communication networks. However, high battery price and low utilization of ESS intended for uninterruptible power supply (UPS) necessitates active utilization of ESS. This paper proposes a multi-functional framework of ESS using dynamic programming (DP) for realizing a sustainable BS. We develop an optimal charging and discharging scheduling algorithm considering a detailed battery wear-out model to minimize operational cost as well as to prolong battery lifetime. Our approach significantly reduces total cost compared to the conventional method that does not consider battery wear-out. Extensive experiments for several scenarios exhibit that total cost is reduced by up to 70.6% while battery wear-out is also reduced by 53.6%. The virtue of the proposed framework is its wide applicability beyond sustainable BS and thus can be also used for other types of load in principle.
Telomerase Activity is Downregulated Early During Human Brain Development
Authors: Ishaq Abbas , Hanson Peter , Morris Christopher , Saretzki Gabriele
Published: June 2016

Changes in hTERT splice variant expression have been proposed to facilitate the decrease of telomerase activity during fetal development in various human tissues. Here, we analyzed the expression of telomerase RNA (hTR), wild type and α-spliced hTERT in developing human fetal brain (post conception weeks, pcw, 6–19) and in young and old cortices using qPCR and correlated it to telomerase activity measured by TRAP assay. Decrease of telomerase activity occurred early during brain development and correlated strongest to decreased hTR expression. The expression of α-spliced hTERT increased between pcw 10 and 19, while that of wild type hTERT remained unchanged. Lack of expression differences between young and old cortices suggests that most changes seem to occur early during human brain development. Using in vitro differentiation of neural precursor stem cells (NPSCs) derived at pcw 6 we found a decrease in telomerase activity but no major expression changes in telomerase associated genes. Thus, they do not seem to model the mechanisms for the decrease in telomerase activity in fetal brains. Our results suggest that decreased hTR levels, as well as transient increase in α-spliced hTERT, might both contribute to downregulation of telomerase activity during early human brain development between 6 and 17 pcw.
Potential Diagnostic, Prognostic and Therapeutic Targets of MicroRNAs in Human Gastric Cancer
Authors: Tsai Ming-Ming , Wang Chia-Siu , Tsai Chung-Ying , Huang Hsiang-Wei , Chi Hsiang-Cheng , Lin Yang-Hsiang , Lu Pei-Hsuan , Lin Kwang-Huei
Published: June 2016

Human gastric cancer (GC) is characterized by a high incidence and mortality rate, largely because it is normally not identified until a relatively advanced stage owing to a lack of early diagnostic biomarkers. Gastroscopy with biopsy is the routine method for screening, and gastrectomy is the major therapeutic strategy for GC. However, in more than 30% of GC surgical patients, cancer has progressed too far for effective medical resection. Thus, useful biomarkers for early screening or detection of GC are essential for improving patients’ survival rate. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in tumorigenesis. They contribute to gastric carcinogenesis by altering the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressors. Because of their stability in tissues, serum/plasma and other body fluids, miRNAs have been suggested as novel tumor biomarkers with suitable clinical potential. Recently, aberrantly expressed miRNAs have been identified and tested for clinical application in the management of GC. Aberrant miRNA expression profiles determined with miRNA microarrays, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and next-generation sequencing approaches could be used to establish sample specificity and to identify tumor type. Here, we provide an up-to-date summary of tissue-based GC-associated miRNAs, describing their involvement and that of their downstream targets in tumorigenic and biological processes. We examine correlations among significant clinical parameters and prognostic indicators, and discuss recurrence monitoring and therapeutic options in GC. We also review plasma/serum-based, GC-associated, circulating miRNAs and their clinical applications, focusing especially on early diagnosis. By providing insights into the mechanisms of miRNA-related tumor progression, this review will hopefully aid in the identification of novel potential therapeutic targets.
Synthesis of Mixed Cu/Ce Oxide Nanoparticles by the Oil-in-Water Microemulsion Reaction Method
Authors: Pemartin-Biernath Kelly , Vela-González Andrea , Moreno-Trejo Maira , Leyva-Porras César , Castañeda-Reyna Iván , Juárez-Ramírez Isaías , Solans Conxita , Sánchez-Domínguez Margarita
Published: June 2016

Cerium oxide and mixed Cu/Ce oxide nanoparticles were prepared by the oil-in-water (O/W) microemulsion reaction method in mild conditions. The Cu/Ce molar ratio was varied between 0/100 and 50/50. According to X-ray diffraction (XRD), below 30/70 Cu/Ce molar ratio, the materials presented a single phase consistent with cubic fluorite CeO2. However, above Cu/Ce molar ratio 30/70, an excess monoclinic CuO phase in coexistence with the predominant Cu/Ce mixed oxide was detected by XRD and High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM). Raman spectroscopy showed that oxygen vacancies increased significantly as the Cu content was increased. Band gap (Eg) was investigated as a function of the Cu/Ce molar ratio, resulting in values from 2.91 eV for CeO2 to 2.32 eV for the mixed oxide with 30/70 Cu/Ce molar ratio. These results indicate that below 30/70 Cu/Ce molar ratio, Cu2+ is at least partially incorporated into the ceria lattice and very well dispersed in general. In addition, the photodegradation of Indigo Carmine dye under visible light irradiation was explored for selected samples; it was shown that these materials can remove such contaminants, either by adsorption and/or photodegradation. The results obtained will encourage investigation into the optical and photocatalytic properties of these mixed oxides, for widening their potential applications.
Spark Plasma Co-Sintering of Mechanically Milled Tool Steel and High Speed Steel Powders
Authors: Pellizzari Massimo , Fedrizzi Anna , Zadra Mario
Published: June 2016

Hot work tool steel (AISI H13) and high speed steel (AISI M3:2) powders were successfully co-sintered to produce hybrid tool steels that have properties and microstructures that can be modulated for specific applications. To promote co-sintering, which is made difficult by the various densification kinetics of the two steels, the particle sizes and structures were refined by mechanical milling (MM). Near full density samples (>99.5%) showing very fine and homogeneous microstructure were obtained using spark plasma sintering (SPS). The density of the blends (20, 40, 60, 80 wt % H13) was in agreement with the linear rule of mixtures. Their hardness showed a positive deviation, which could be ascribed to the strengthening effect of the secondary particles altering the stress distribution during indentation. A toughening of the M3:2-rich blends could be explained in view of the crack deviation and crack arrest exerted by the H13 particles.
Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Technology for Wastewater Treatment and Reclamation: Membrane Fouling
Authors: Iorhemen Oliver , Hamza Rania , Tay Joo
Published: June 2016

The membrane bioreactor (MBR) has emerged as an efficient compact technology for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment. The major drawback impeding wider application of MBRs is membrane fouling, which significantly reduces membrane performance and lifespan, resulting in a significant increase in maintenance and operating costs. Finding sustainable membrane fouling mitigation strategies in MBRs has been one of the main concerns over the last two decades. This paper provides an overview of membrane fouling and studies conducted to identify mitigating strategies for fouling in MBRs. Classes of foulants, including biofoulants, organic foulants and inorganic foulants, as well as factors influencing membrane fouling are outlined. Recent research attempts on fouling control, including addition of coagulants and adsorbents, combination of aerobic granulation with MBRs, introduction of granular materials with air scouring in the MBR tank, and quorum quenching are presented. The addition of coagulants and adsorbents shows a significant membrane fouling reduction, but further research is needed to establish optimum dosages of the various coagulants/adsorbents. Similarly, the integration of aerobic granulation with MBRs, which targets biofoulants and organic foulants, shows outstanding filtration performance and a significant reduction in fouling rate, as well as excellent nutrients removal. However, further research is needed on the enhancement of long-term granule integrity. Quorum quenching also offers a strong potential for fouling control, but pilot-scale testing is required to explore the feasibility of full-scale application.
Shikonin Inhibits the Proliferation of Human Breast Cancer Cells by Reducing Tumor-Derived Exosomes
Authors: Wei Yao , Li Mingzhen , Cui Shufang , Wang Dong , Zhang Chen-Yu , Zen Ke , Li Limin
Published: June 2016

Shikonin is a naphthoquinone isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine Lithospermum. It has been used in the treatment of various tumors. However, the effects of shikonin on such diseases have not been fully elucidated. In the present study, we detected the exosome release of a breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) with shikonin treatment and found a positive relationship between the level of secreted exosomes and cell proliferation. We next analyzed miRNA profiles in MCF-7 cells and exosomes and found that some miRNAs are specifically sorted and abundant in exosomes. Knockdown of the most abundant miRNAs in exosomes and the MCF-7 proliferation assay showed that miR-128 in exosomes negatively regulates the level of Bax in MCF-7 recipient cells and inhibits cell proliferation. These results show that shikonin inhibits the proliferation of MCF-7 cells through reducing tumor-derived exosomal miR-128. The current study suggests that shikonin suppresses MCF-7 growth by the inhibition of exosome release.
Legionella pneumophila Carbonic Anhydrases: Underexplored Antibacterial Drug Targets
Authors: Supuran Claudiu
Published: June 2016

Carbonic anhydrases (CAs, EC 4.2.1.1) are metalloenzymes which catalyze the hydration of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate and protons. Many pathogenic bacteria encode such enzymes belonging to the α-, β-, and/or γ-CA families. In the last decade, enzymes from some of these pathogens, including Legionella pneumophila, have been cloned and characterized in detail. These enzymes were shown to be efficient catalysts for CO2 hydration, with kcat values in the range of (3.4–8.3) × 105 s−1 and kcat/KM values of (4.7–8.5) × 107 M−1·s−1. In vitro inhibition studies with various classes of inhibitors, such as anions, sulfonamides and sulfamates, were also reported for the two β-CAs from this pathogen, LpCA1 and LpCA2. Inorganic anions were millimolar inhibitors, whereas diethyldithiocarbamate, sulfamate, sulfamide, phenylboronic acid, and phenylarsonic acid were micromolar ones. The best LpCA1 inhibitors were aminobenzolamide and structurally similar sulfonylated aromatic sulfonamides, as well as acetazolamide and ethoxzolamide (KIs in the range of 40.3–90.5 nM). The best LpCA2 inhibitors belonged to the same class of sulfonylated sulfonamides, together with acetazolamide, methazolamide, and dichlorophenamide (KIs in the range of 25.2–88.5 nM). Considering such preliminary results, the two bacterial CAs from this pathogen represent promising yet underexplored targets for obtaining antibacterials devoid of the resistance problems common to most of the clinically used antibiotics, but further studies are needed to validate them in vivo as drug targets.
Erratum: Cavender-Bares, J.; Meireles, J.E.; Couture, J.; Kaproth, M.A.; Kingdon, C.C; Singh, A; Serbin, S.P.; Center, A; Zuniga, E; Pilz, G; Townsend, P.A. Associations of Leaf Spectra with Genetic and Phylogenetic Variation in Oaks: Prospects for Remote Detection of Biodiversity. Remote Sens. 2016, 8, 221
Authors:   Remote Sensing Editorial Office
Published: June 2016

The authors would like to correct the abstract and Figures 3 and 4 of this article [1] as follows:[...]
Transcytosis, Antitumor Activity and Toxicity of Staphylococcal Enterotoxin C2 as an Oral Administration Protein Drug
Authors: Zhao Wenbin , Li Yangyang , Liu Wenhui , Ding Ding , Xu Yingchun , Pan Liqiang , Chen Shuqing
Published: June 2016

Staphylococcal enterotoxin C2 (SEC2) is a classical superantigen (SAg), which can tremendously activate T lymphocytes at very low dosage, thus exerting its powerful antitumor activity. As an intravenous protein drug and a bacterial toxin, SEC2 has some limitations including poor patient compliance and toxic side effects. In this research, we devoted our attention to studying the antitumor activity and toxicity of SEC2 as a potential oral administration protein drug. We proved that His-tagged SEC2 (SEC2-His) could undergo facilitated transcytosis on human colon adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells and SEC2-His was detected in the blood of rats after oral administration. Furthermore, oral SEC2-His caused massive cytokine release and immune cell enrichment around tumor tissue, leading to inhibition of tumor growth in vivo. Meanwhile, although SEC2-His was dosed up to 32 mg/kg in mice, no significant toxicity was observed. These data showed that SEC2 can cross the intestinal epithelium in an immunologically integral form, maintaining antitumor activity but with reduced systemic toxicity. Therefore, these results may have implications for developing SEC2 as an oral administration protein drug.
Is Hybridization a Source of Adaptive Venom Variation in Rattlesnakes? A Test, Using a Crotalus scutulatus × viridis Hybrid Zone in Southwestern New Mexico
Authors: Zancolli Giulia , Baker Timothy , Barlow Axel , Bradley Rebecca , Calvete Juan , Carter Kimberley , De Jager Kaylah , Owens John , Price Jenny , Sanz Libia , Scholes-Higham Amy , Shier Liam , Wood Liam , Wüster Catharine , Wüster Wolfgang
Published: June 2016

Venomous snakes often display extensive variation in venom composition both between and within species. However, the mechanisms underlying the distribution of different toxins and venom types among populations and taxa remain insufficiently known. Rattlesnakes (Crotalus, Sistrurus) display extreme inter- and intraspecific variation in venom composition, centered particularly on the presence or absence of presynaptically neurotoxic phospholipases A2 such as Mojave toxin (MTX). Interspecific hybridization has been invoked as a mechanism to explain the distribution of these toxins across rattlesnakes, with the implicit assumption that they are adaptively advantageous. Here, we test the potential of adaptive hybridization as a mechanism for venom evolution by assessing the distribution of genes encoding the acidic and basic subunits of Mojave toxin across a hybrid zone between MTX-positive Crotalus scutulatus and MTX-negative C. viridis in southwestern New Mexico, USA. Analyses of morphology, mitochondrial and single copy-nuclear genes document extensive admixture within a narrow hybrid zone. The genes encoding the two MTX subunits are strictly linked, and found in most hybrids and backcrossed individuals, but not in C. viridis away from the hybrid zone. Presence of the genes is invariably associated with presence of the corresponding toxin in the venom. We conclude that introgression of highly lethal neurotoxins through hybridization is not necessarily favored by natural selection in rattlesnakes, and that even extensive hybridization may not lead to introgression of these genes into another species.
Occupancy and overlap in trait space along a successional gradient in Mediterranean old fields
Authors: Loranger Jessy , Blonder Benjamin , Garnier Éric , Shipley Bill , Vile Denis , Violle Cyrille
Published: June 2016

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Secondary succession is a worldwide phenomenon affecting plant communities. Studying functional variation during succession aids in understanding the mechanisms through which environmental shifts drive succession. We investigated changes in the functional space occupied by herbaceous communities during succession. Furthermore, since different traits are differently affected by environmental conditions, we asked how considering different sets of plant traits impacts those changes.

METHODS:

Using a chronosequence of Mediterranean old fields (2–42 yr after abandonment), we analyzed shifts of the occupied functional space during succession, how the volume of occupied functional space varies compared with null expectations, and the functional overlap between communities of different successional status. We repeated these analyses considering (1) the leaf–height–seed functional dimensions separately and together and (2) different sets of traits representing those dimensions.

KEY RESULTS:

From early to late succession, a shift toward nutrient conservative‐light competitive species occurred. Functional strategies of mid‐successional communities appeared more diverse than expected by chance and less diverse than expected for early and late communities. Early and middle stages overlapped the most. These patterns were generally robust to the choice of functional axes, though important trait‐specific exceptions occurred.

CONCLUSIONS:

We showed evidence for a well‐defined history of successive dominance of different assembly mechanisms along succession, resulting in a generally stronger functional diversification in mid‐succession. We also demonstrated that different traits typically grouped under one functional dimension can substantially affect the results, discouraging the use of surrogate traits from the same dimension.
Bidirectional anatomical effects in a mistletoe–host relationship: Psittacanthus schiedeanus mistletoe and its hosts Liquidambar styraciflua and Quercus germana
Authors: Cocoletzi Eliezer , Angeles Guillermo , Ceccantini Gregório , Patrón Araceli , Ornelas Juan Francisco
Published: June 2016

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

During the interactions between a parasitic plant and its host, the parasite affects its host morphologically, anatomically, and physiologically, yet there has been little focus on the effect of hosts on the parasite. Here, the functional interactions between the hemiparasitic mistletoe Psittacanthus schiedeanus and its hosts Liquidambar styraciflua and Quercus germana were interpreted based on the anatomical features of the vascular tissues.

METHODS:

Using standard techniques for light and transmission electron microscopy, we studied the effects of P. schiedeanus on the phloem anatomy of Liquidambar styraciflua and Quercus germana and vice versa.

KEY RESULTS:

The phloem of P. schiedeanus has larger sieve elements, companion cells, and sieve plate areas when it is parasitizing L. styraciflua than Q. germana; however, the parasite produces systemic effects on the phloem of its hosts, reducing the size of phloem in L. styraciflua but increasing it in Q. germana. Those seem to be the bidirectional effects. No direct connections between the secondary phloem of the parasite and that of its hosts were observed. Parenchymatic cells of L. styraciflua in contact with connective parenchyma cells of the parasite develop half‐plasmodesmata, while those of Q. germana do not.

CONCLUSIONS:

The bidirectional effects between the parasite and its hosts comprise modifications in secondary phloem that are potentially affected by the phenology of its hosts, a combination of hormonal agents such as auxins, and the symplasmic or apoplasmic pathway for solutes import.
The report of my death was an exaggeration: A review for researchers using microsatellites in the 21st century
Authors: Hodel Richard G. J. , Segovia‐Salcedo M. Claudia , Landis Jacob B. , Crowl Andrew A. , Sun Miao , Liu Xiaoxian , Gitzendanner Matthew A. , Douglas Norman A. , Germain‐Aubrey Charlotte C. , Chen Shichao , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S.
Published: June 2016

Microsatellites, or simple sequence repeats (SSRs), have long played a major role in genetic studies due to their typically high polymorphism. They have diverse applications, including genome mapping, forensics, ascertaining parentage, population and conservation genetics, identification of the parentage of polyploids, and phylogeography. We compare SSRs and newer methods, such as genotyping by sequencing (GBS) and restriction site associated DNA sequencing (RAD‐Seq), and offer recommendations for researchers considering which genetic markers to use. We also review the variety of techniques currently used for identifying microsatellite loci and developing primers, with a particular focus on those that make use of next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Additionally, we review software for microsatellite development and report on an experiment to assess the utility of currently available software for SSR development. Finally, we discuss the future of microsatellites and make recommendations for researchers preparing to use microsatellites. We argue that microsatellites still have an important place in the genomic age as they remain effective and cost‐efficient markers.
REFERENCES IN LE CORBUSIER’S REORGANIZATION OF RURAL HABITAT
Authors: Arredondo-Garrido David
Published: June 2016

Projects for the Reorganization of the Rural Habitat designed by Le Corbusier during the ‘30s posed a territorial model from a radically new vision. The Ferme Radieuse, the Village Radieux and its implementation as the Unité d’Explotation Agricole within his theory of Les Trois Établissements Humains, form a complex theory of agricultural land use with an innovative character. However, in these studies some historical and vernacular references can also be found. They significantly influenced the overall approach and the results.
Thanks to his relationship with the rural activist Norbert Bézard and a direct contact with farmers in the region of Sarthe, in central France, Le Corbusier began to understand their problems, needs and ways of working. He approached, at the same time, to some theoretical reflections from French rural historians and geographers, such as Roupnel and Ramuz. Influence from writers like Ritter or politicians like Giradoux, together with its own interests, marked his later designs. Besides the accepted functionalist scheme, we can also find in this Reorganization of the Rural Habitat some interesting historical connections as well as a nostalgic attempt to recover past and vernacular models.
LE CORBUSIER. STREETS, PROMENADES, SCENES AND ARTEFACTS
Authors: Monteys Xavier , Fuertes Pere
Published: June 2016

The relationship of Le Corbusier with the street is complex and sometimes contradictory. young Jeanneret seems to be persuaded by certain sites, which we may define as urban scenarios, during his visits to cities like Istanbul in his formative years. Unlike his hometown La Chaux-de-Fonds – identified by a regular set of streets – these places may have been a picturesque coun- terpoint activated by a significant topography. Streets meandering along a set of ‘Dom-ino’ houses in the Oeuvre complete, as the tracking rails of a long shot recording, offer a changing viewpoint that may be considered in relation with such casual arrangements. The claim to kill the ‘rue corridor’ made in Précisions, together with his later writings, deeply contrast with his own comments on an empty Paris in the summer of 1942 – as published in Les Trois Établissements Humains – praising the same streets he pretended to erase by means of operations like the ‘Ilôt Insalubre No 6′.
RETHINKING LE CORBUSIER: URBAN DESIGN AND HISTORY
Authors: Sequeira Marta
Published: June 2016

„Rethinking Le Corbusier: urban design and history" Journal of Architecture and Urbanism, 40(2), p. 59