bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
English compound and non-compound processing in bilingual and multilingual speakers: Effects of dominance and sequential multilingualism
Authors: González Alonso Jorge , Villegas Julián , García Mayo María del Pilar
Published: May 2016

This article reports on a study investigating the relative influence of the first language and dominant language (L1) on second language (L2) and third language (L3) morpho-lexical processing. A lexical decision task compared the responses to English NV-er compounds (e.g. taxi driver) and non-compounds provided by a group of native speakers and three groups of learners at various levels of English proficiency: L1 Spanish – L2 English sequential bilinguals and two groups of early Spanish–Basque bilinguals with English as their L3. Crucially, the two trilingual groups differed in their first and dominant language (i.e. L1 Spanish – L2 Basque vs. L1 Basque – L2 Spanish). Our materials exploit an (a)symmetry between these languages: while Basque and English pattern together in the basic structure of (productive) NV-er compounds, Spanish presents a construction that differs in directionality as well as inflection of the verbal element (V[3SG] + N). Results show between and within group differences in accuracy and response times that may be ascribable to two factors besides proficiency: the number of languages spoken by a given participant and their dominant language. An examination of response bias reveals an influence of the participants’ first and dominant language on the processing of NV-er compounds. Our data suggest that morphological information in the non-native lexicon may extend beyond morphemic structure and that, similarly to bilingualism, there are costs to sequential multilingualism in lexical retrieval.
High-mobility group box 1 is an important mediator of microglial activation induced by cortical spreading depression
Authors: Takizawa Tsubasa , Shibata Mamoru , Kayama Yohei , Shimizu Toshihiko , Toriumi Haruki , Ebine Taeko , Unekawa Miyuki , Koh Anri , Yoshimura Akihiko , Suzuki Norihiro
Published: May 2016

Single episodes of cortical spreading depression (CSD) are believed to cause typical migraine aura, whereas clusters of spreading depolarizations have been observed in cerebral ischemia and subarachnoid hemorrhage. We recently demonstrated that the release of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) from cortical neurons after CSD in a rodent model is dependent on the number of CSD episodes, such that only multiple CSD episodes can induce significant HMGB1 release. Here, we report that only multiple CSD inductions caused microglial hypertrophy (activation) accompanied by a greater impact on the transcription activity of the HMGB1 receptor genes, TLR2 and TLR4, while the total number of cortical microglia was not affected. Both an HMGB1-neurtalizing antibody and the HMGB1 inhibitor glycyrrhizin abrogated multiple CSD-induced microglial hypertrophy. Moreover, multiple CSD inductions failed to induce microglial hypertrophy in TLR2/4 double knockout mice. These results strongly implicate the HMGB1–TLR2/4 axis in the activation of microglia following multiple CSD inductions. Increased expression of the lysosomal acid hydrolase cathepsin D was detected in activated microglia by immunostaining, suggesting that lysosomal phagocytic activity may be enhanced in multiple CSD-activated microglia.
Shoulder Injuries in Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse, 2004-2009
Authors: Gardner Elizabeth C. , Chan Wayne W. , Sutton Karen M. , Blaine Theodore A.
Published: May 2016

Background:

Men’s lacrosse has been one of the fastest growing team sports in the United States, at both the collegiate and high school levels. Uniquely, it combines both continuous overhead and contact activity. Thus, an understanding of its injury epidemiology and mechanisms is vital. Shoulder injuries have been shown to be common in the sport, but thus far there has been no dedicated analysis of these injuries with which to better inform injury prevention strategies.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

All athlete exposures (AEs) and shoulder injuries reported to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Injury Surveillance System for intercollegiate men’s lacrosse athletes from 2004-2005 through 2008-2009 were collected. Type of injury was documented and the injury incidence per 1000 AEs was calculated. Event type, injury mechanism, specific injury, outcome, and time lost were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using 95% CIs, calculated based on a normal approximation to Poisson distribution.

Results:

There were a total of 124 observed shoulder injuries during 229,591 monitored AEs. With weights, this estimates 1707 shoulder injuries over 2,873,973 AEs, for an incidence of 0.59 per 1000 AEs (95% CI, 0.56-0.62). The incidence of shoulder injury during competition was 1.89 per 1000 AEs (95% CI, 1.76-2.02), compared with 0.35 per 1000 AEs (95% CI, 0.33-0.38) during practice. Acromioclavicular joint injuries were most common (0.29 per 1000 AEs; 95% CI, 0.27-0.31). Labral injuries and instability events were also frequent (0.11 per 1000 AEs; 95% CI, 0.10-0.13). Player-to-player contact caused 57% of all shoulder injuries, with 25% due to contact with the playing surface. The average time lost was 11.0 days, with 41.9% of all shoulder injuries requiring ≥10 days. Clavicle fractures and posterior shoulder dislocation were particularly severe, with no athletes returning to play during the same season.

Conclusion:

Shoulder injuries are common in NCAA men’s lacrosse and are an important source of lost playing time. Acromioclavicular injuries were the most frequent injury in this series, but labral and instability injuries were also common. In this increasingly popular contact sport, an understanding of the epidemiology and mechanism of shoulder injuries may be used to improve protective equipment and develop injury prevention.
Three-dimensional impact angle guidance with coupled engagement dynamics
Authors: Kumar Shashi Ranjan , Ghose Debasish
Published: May 2016

This paper proposes three-dimensional impact angle control guidance laws based on a sliding mode control technique. Unlike the usual approach of decoupling the engagement dynamics into two mutually orthogonal two-dimensional planes, the guidance laws are derived using coupled engagement dynamics. By using this approach, the control effort required to achieve the objective reduces and the performance of the guidance law is improved. The derivations of guidance laws are done using both conventional as well as nonsingular terminal sliding mode control, which guarantees asymptotic and finite time convergence, respectively, to the desired impact angle. In order to derive the guidance laws, multi-dimensional switching surfaces are used. The stability of the system, with selected switching surfaces, is demonstrated using Lyapunov stability theory. Numerical simulation results are presented to validate the proposed guidance laws for constant speed, as well as a realistic interceptor model with given aerodynamic properties. The simulations show the advantage of using coupled dynamics. The robustness of the proposed guidance laws, with respect to the interceptor’s system lag, is also investigated.
Searching for Category-Consistent Features
Authors: Yu Chen-Ping , Maxfield Justin T. , Zelinsky Gregory J.
Published: May 2016

This article introduces a generative model of category representation that uses computer vision methods to extract category-consistent features (CCFs) directly from images of category exemplars. The model was trained on 4,800 images of common objects, and CCFs were obtained for 68 categories spanning subordinate, basic, and superordinate levels in a category hierarchy. When participants searched for these same categories, targets cued at the subordinate level were preferentially fixated, but fixated targets were verified faster when they followed a basic-level cue. The subordinate-level advantage in guidance is explained by the number of target-category CCFs, a measure of category specificity that decreases with movement up the category hierarchy. The basic-level advantage in verification is explained by multiplying the number of CCFs by sibling distance, a measure of category distinctiveness. With this model, the visual representations of real-world object categories, each learned from the vast numbers of image exemplars accumulated throughout everyday experience, can finally be studied.
More Similar but Less Satisfying
Authors: Huh Young Eun , Vosgerau Joachim , Morewedge Carey K.
Published: May 2016

When people cannot get what they want, they often satisfy their desire by consuming a substitute. Substitutes can originate from within the taxonomic category of the desired stimulus (i.e., within-category substitutes) or from a different taxonomic category that serves the same basic goal (i.e., cross-category substitutes). Both a store-brand chocolate (within-category substitute) and a granola bar (cross-category substitute), for example, can serve as substitutes for gourmet chocolate. Here, we found that people believe that within-category substitutes, which are more similar to desired stimuli, will more effectively satisfy their cravings than will cross-category substitutes (Experiments 1, 2a, and 2b). However, because within-category substitutes are more similar than cross-category substitutes to desired stimuli, they are more likely to evoke an unanticipated negative contrast effect. As a result, unless substitutes are equivalent in quality to the desired stimulus, cross-category substitutes more effectively satisfy cravings for the desired stimulus (Experiments 3 and 4).
Redefining stereotypes: The banlieue and female experience in Faïza Guène’s Kiffe kiffe demain
Authors: Ahonen Mirka
Published: May 2016

In this article I discuss the female banlieue experience in Faïza Guène’s Kiffe kiffe demain, which describes daily life in a Parisian banlieue from the perspective of a girl with an immigrant background. In contemporary French literature the banlieues are usually portrayed either as oppressive places, where the characters feel alienated, or as non-places: according to Marc Augé meaningless spaces of transit and anonymity. Banlieue representations have also often reproduced stereotypical views about women. I argue that Kiffe kiffe demain challenges popular stereotypes and portrays a more nuanced image of the banlieue and its gendered practices. In the novel, the banlieue clearly does not evoke a sense of non-place, but rather holds personal and emotional values and meanings for the characters. The perspective of a young girl, ordinary experiences of everyday life, and a sense of community play an important role in constructing a rich image of the banlieue.
Esclaves de la scène : Blackface et acteurs noirs dans le vaudeville français du dix-neuvième siècle
Authors: Schreier Lise
Published: May 2016

Résumé

Comment représenter sur scène des personnes de couleur ? La question préoccupe longtemps le théâtre français, et c’est le vaudeville, genre généralement plus prompt à l’imitation qu’à l’innovation, qui le premier se risque à abandonner la pratique du blackface et à faire monter sur les planches des acteurs noirs. Nous sommes en 1847 ; si le maquillage noircissant est alors tenu pour ridicule, l’apparition de comédiens de couleur indigne. On ne comprend notamment pas qu’au moment où se débat l’abolition de l’esclavage (qui sera décrétée moins d’un an plus tard), on « oblige » des personnes de couleur à « s’exhiber » sur scène pour divertir les spectateurs. Cet essai propose une analyse de deux vaudevilles, l’un parodiant le recours au blackface et l’autre employant des acteurs de couleur, pour montrer que ce genre théâtral nous fournit des informations précieuses sur les perceptions d’un public populaire en matière de race.
Motivating Instruction? There’s an App for That!
Authors: Bruhn Allison , Hirsch Shanna , Vogelgesang Kari
Published: May 2016

Keeping students engaged in the curriculum is extremely important when attempting to close the achievement gap for students with and at risk for disabilities. This is particularly important for students with learning disabilities or behavior disorders. This article discusses the use of applications (apps) for mobile technologies that may be used to motivate and thus engage students in the classroom by supporting best instructional practices. These apps are matched to specific strategies that researchers have suggested for increasing motivation and engagement.
Life Span Transitions for a Student With LD
Authors: Cumming Therese M. , Smedley Emily N.
Published: May 2016

Transition planning and processes can greatly influence the quality of schooling transitions for students with learning disabilities. Student-focused planning and family involvement are two integral components of transition planning that do not always receive the emphasis that they deserve. The educational transitions of one student are examined through the lens of the student and her mother, with a focus on these two areas. These experiences are compared to research-based transition practices, with recommendations for improving the process for other students with learning disabilities in the future.
Plasticity of the Axon Initial Segment: Fast and Slow Processes with Multiple Functional Roles
Authors: Petersen Anders Victor , Cotel Florence , Perrier Jean-François
Published: May 2016

The axon initial segment (AIS) is a key neuronal compartment because it is responsible for action potential initiation. The local density of Na+ channels, the biophysical properties of K+ channels, as well as the length and diameter of the AIS determine the spiking of neurons. These parameters undergo important modifications during development. The development of the AIS is governed by intrinsic mechanisms. In addition, surrounding neuronal networks modify its maturation. As a result, neurons get tuned to particular physiological functions. Neuronal activity also influences the morphology of the mature AIS. When excitatory neurons are hyperactive, their AIS undergo structural changes that decrease their excitability and thereby maintain the activity within a given range. These slow homeostatic regulatory mechanisms occur on a time scale of hours or days. In contrast, the activation of metabotropic receptors modulates the properties of ion channels expressed at the AIS within seconds and consequently produces fast adjustments of neuronal excitability. Recent results suggest that this plasticity plays important roles in physiological functions as diverse as memory formation, hearing, and motor control.
Methodology to optimize wedge suspensions of three-piece bogies of railway vehicles
Authors: Wu Qing , Sun Yan , Spiryagin Maksym , Cole Colin
Published: May 2016

Wedge suspensions are critical systems for three-piece bogies. This paper proposes a methodology to optimize wedge suspensions using white-box suspension models, dynamic simulations of railway vehicle systems, parallel multi-objective Particle Swarm Optimization (pMOPSO), and parallel multi-objective Genetic Algorithm (pMOGA). Two types of original wedge suspensions with three different toe angle configurations were modeled and compared. Four case studies were carried out to prove the feasibility of the optimization methodology. A series of optimized designs were identified using the Pareto Front technique. Demonstrative optimized designs were compared with the original designs. Results show that wedge suspensions with the toe-in configuration provide better dynamic performance for freight wagons. Significant reductions to the maximum wheel/rail contact forces can be achieved by the optimized designs. Linear speed-up was achieved by using the parallel computing technique.
Understanding Tablet Consumers
Authors: Chan-Olmsted Sylvia , Shay Ronen
Published: May 2016

This exploratory study surveyed 379 undergraduate students at a southeastern university to investigate the factors that contribute to the consumer ownership of tablets, iPads, and dual adoption of both a tablet and smartphone. It also examines the factors that may predict a consumer’s likelihood to own a tablet in the future, given their current status as a non-owner. The findings consistently demonstrate the importance of perceived tablet usefulness, microblogging social media usage, and computer commerce in affecting tablet, iPad, and dual mobile device ownership.
Effects of Intraventricular Methotrexate on Neuronal Injury and Gene Expression in a Rat Model
Authors: Moore Ida M. (Ki) , Merkle Carrie J. , Byrne Howard , Ross Adam , Hawkins Ashley M. , Ameli Sara S. , Montgomery David W.
Published: May 2016

Central nervous system (CNS)-directed treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, used to prevent disease recurrence in the brain, is essential for survival. Systemic and intrathecal methotrexate, commonly used for CNS-directed treatment, have been associated with cognitive problems during and after treatment. The cortex, hippocampus, and caudate putamen, important brain regions for learning and memory, may be involved in methotrexate-induced brain injury. Objectives of this study were to (1) quantify neuronal degeneration in selected regions of the cortex, hippocampus, and caudate putamen and (2) measure changes in the expression of genes with known roles in oxidant defense, apoptosis/inflammation, and protection from injury. Male Sprague Dawley rats were administered 2 or 4 mg/kg of methotrexate diluted in artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) or aCSF only into the left cerebral lateral ventricle. Gene expression changes were measured using customized reverse transcription (RT)2 polymerase chain reaction arrays. The greatest percentage of degenerating neurons in methotrexate-treated animals was in the medial region of the cortex; percentage of degenerating neurons in the dentate gyrus and cornu ammonis 3 regions of the hippocampus was also greater in rats treated with methotrexate compared to perfusion and vehicle controls. There was a greater percentage of degenerating neurons in the inferior cortex of control versus methotrexate-treated animals. Eight genes involved in protection from injury, oxidant defense, and apoptosis/inflammation were significantly downregulated in different brain regions of methotrexate-treated rats. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate methotrexate-induced injury in selected brain regions and gene expression changes using a rat model of intraventricular drug administration.
Clinical ethics in forensic psychiatry: Fostering reflection and dialog on the ward through moral case deliberation
Authors: Voskes Yolande , Weidema Frouk , Widdershoven Guy
Published: May 2016

Forensic psychiatry is pervaded by moral dilemmas. Although professionals in forensic psychiatry are trained in law and psychiatry and are certainly aware of ethical issues in the care for patients, they tend to make decisions in an implicit way and not to discuss their moral concerns or doubts. More structural attention for ethics seems to be required. In this paper, we show the value of moral case deliberation in forensic psychiatry. Moral case deliberation is a specific kind of clinical ethics support in which healthcare professionals discuss a moral issue from practice in a structured way, facilitated by an ethicist or specifically trained facilitator. It is applicable to a wide array of situations in healthcare practice. In contrast to other models of clinical ethics support, such as individual consultation, the focus is on the moral experience of professionals and using a structured method to foster dialog and joint moral learning. In this paper, an example of case on a forensic ward is presented. The case shows that moral case deliberation leads to reflection on values and stimulates openness and honesty regarding uncertainties. Moreover, the deliberation provides room for new insights and creates a basis for a joint decision on how to proceed further, recognizing the tensions and difficulties involved.
Elevated AQP1 Expression Is Associated With Unfavorable Oncologic Outcome in Patients With Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Li Chunxiang , Li Xiaofu , Wu Linfeng , Jiang Zheng
Published: May 2016

Background:

Hilar cholangiocarcinomas are malignant tumors with a poor prognosis. An early prediction of prognosis for patients may help us determine treatment strategies. Aquaporin 1 is a cell membrane channel involved in water transport, cell motility, and proliferation. Increasing evidences showed that aquaporin 1 played a role in tumor prognosis and diagnosis. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of aquaporin 1 in hilar cholangiocarcinoma.

Methods:

Here, we analyzed messenger RNA expression data of genes function as bile secretion in a data set of 169 samples using the R2 bioinformatic platform ( http://r2.amc.nl ). Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to verify the gene expression in 17 hilar cholangiocarcinoma samples. Immunohistochemistry was also performed in a series of specimens from 62 hilar cholangiocarcinoma tissues, and its clinical significance was assessed by clinical correlation and Kaplan-Meier analyses.

Results:

All data were analyzed using the R2 web application, aquaporin 1 was selected for further analysis. The significant expression variation of aquaporin 1 among 17 cases with cholangiocarcinoma was also found using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The expression level of aquaporin 1 protein significantly correlated with tumor-node-metastasis stage ( P = .002) and overall survival time ( P = .010). Higher aquaporin 1 expression indicated poor prognostic outcomes ( P <.05, log-rank test). Multivariate analysis also showed strong aquaporin 1 protein expression was an independent adverse prognosticator in hilar cholangiocarcinoma ( P = .002).

Conclusion:

This study highlighted the prognostic value of aquaporin 1 in hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Strong aquaporin 1 expression predicts poor survival, regardless of pathological features. Immunohistochemical detection of aquaporin 1, as a prognostic marker, may contribute to predicting clinical outcome for patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma.
Exploring the Role of Executive Functioning Measures for Social Competence Research
Authors: Stichter Janine P. , Christ Shawn E. , Herzog Melissa J. , O’Donnell Rose M. , O’Connor Karen V.
Published: May 2016

Numerous research groups have consistently called for increased rigor within the evaluation of social programming to better understand pivotal factors to treatment outcomes. The underwhelming data on the essential features of social competence programs for students with behavior challenges may, in part, be attributed to the manner by which available measures are accessed within applied research. The growing literature highlighting the bidirectionality of executive functioning (EF) and social competence supports a comprehensive evaluation of EF within intervention outcomes. Existing data from a suite of four informant and performance measures frequented within EF literature were evaluated as a case example of the contribution of EF in relation to the impact of the Social Competence Intervention for Adolescents (SCI-A) curriculum on social competence. Analyses explored a more “child-world” approach to EF assessment within a context of general social competence gains. Key findings highlight students’ improvements in broad, informant-based measures of executive function and in performance-based tasks designed to assess specific EF processes. Furthermore, these measures provide unique sources of information. Implications for the use of multisource executive function assessments within social competence interventions are discussed.
Trade-Offs at Ella Baker Public Charter School
Authors: O’Donnell Kate , Swanson Jessica
Published: May 2016

This case was written for educational leadership courses, especially ones focused on organizational change. The case explores a principal’s first year at school where the student achievement and school climate were not meeting the school’s lofty mission. Readers of the case should consider the steps and perspectives taken by the principal during her first year.
Inclusivity, Educators, and Non-Conformists
Authors: Pinto Laura Elizabeth , Pemberton Andrea
Published: May 2016

This case calls attention to some of the biases that teachers and leaders in school settings may carry when working with students whose appearance goes against the norm. It presents the experience of Lee-Ann, a vice principal, as she negotiates a conflict between a student and teacher, and is confronted by Marc, a guidance counselor, who recognizes what he views as unjust treatment of a student. Lee-Ann’s position contains contradictions between her self-perception as a “caring, open-minded” educator, and her interactions with and perceptions of a non-conforming student.
Decision-Making in School Racial Conflict
Authors: Martin Allison , Yoon Irene H. , Fluckiger J. Janell
Published: May 2016

The following case portrays administrator, faculty, and student responses to a race-related incident that occurred in a predominantly White, wealthy, suburban high school. Reports of the story took off in news outlets and on social media; but the events did not end there. The scenario underscores the challenges involved in school and district leadership during emotionally intense, divisive periods of heightened public scrutiny about racism. Questions and case analyses challenge readers to identify opportunities for social justice leadership in response to racism and in the face of pressure to minimize events and consequences. Teaching notes are also included to assist readers in unpacking how to model social justice leadership in the face of complex and competing stakeholder perspectives.
“This Too Shall Pass”
Authors: Coviello James C. , DeMatthews David E.
Published: May 2016

The story of the past 15 years in U.S. education has been one of fundamental reform and transformation. These changes are felt most acutely in the daily lives of teachers and principals and often have lasting effects on the context of the school community. This case study explores the challenges facing a principal when attempting reform and improvement efforts set in a larger backdrop of social and economic change. This case involves issues related to understanding school context and improving communication skills for new principals and can be used for principal preparation and educational leadership courses.
How social media is changing leadership and innovation
Authors: Dillon Cathryn
Published: May 2016

Leadership in healthcare has been prioritised in recent years, following the Francis report it is now actively promoted in post graduate training as being everyone’s responsibility. Leading grassroots innovation is a challenging task in a traditional organisational model. This article looks at how the rise in the use of social media to discuss professional issues has acted as a leveler, and how the NHS leadership model and social media can enhance personal leadership qualities and facilitate how all doctors can influence healthcare delivery.
Carotid Artery Dissection Following Neck Cannulation for Extracorporeal Life Support
Authors: Ryerson Lindsay M. , Sanchez-Glanville Carlos , Huberdeau Christa , Aklabi Mohammed Al
Published: May 2016

A term neonate was cannulated for venoarterial extracorporeal life support (ECLS) via the right neck for non-postoperative junctional ectopic tachycardia. Initial echocardiogram demonstrated an echogenic strand in the transverse arch. Computed tomography angiogram confirmed arterial dissection of the right common carotid artery that extended into the proximal transverse arch. Dissection flap was repaired at the time of ECLS decannulation without cardiopulmonary bypass. Follow-up computed tomography angiogram revealed a segment of narrowing of approximately 50% of the right common carotid artery without false lumen or aneurysm.
Fatal Acute Appendicitis in a Neonate With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Dunne Ben , Brown Kilian G. M. , Sholler Gary , Trivedi Amit , Smith Grahame , Winlaw David S.
Published: May 2016

We describe a case of fatal acute appendicitis in a neonate associated with congenital cardiac disease requiring staged surgery. Neonatal appendicitis is extremely rare and usually associated with prematurity and congenital abdominal conditions. This report serves to highlight the risk of this disease due to vascular insufficiency and ischemia in neonates with congenital cardiac disease and highlight the importance of considering this diagnosis in such a neonate with unexplained sepsis even in the absence of clear abdominal signs.
Is There Disparity in Cardiovascular Health Between Migrant Workers and Native Workers?
Authors: Lee Hyeonkyeong , Cho Sunghye , Kim Yune Kyong , Kim Jung Hee
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to identify the probability of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and its association with metabolic syndrome (MS) risk factors among middle-aged Korean Chinese (KC) migrant women workers compared to comparable native Korean (NK) women workers. Using matched samples based on the propensity score matching method, 10-year CVD risk was calculated and MS risk factors identified. Logistic regression and classification and regression tree (CART) analysis were conducted. The probability of KC migrants’ 10-year CVD risk was significantly lower (6.4%) than NK women risk (7.8%, t = 1.99, p = .048). Blood pressure of 130/85 mmHg or higher was found to be a significant risk factor for 10-year CVD risk in both groups. The findings support existing knowledge about the healthy immigrant effect on CVD and MS risk factors. The findings could be the basis for occupational health professionals to pursue policy initiatives and public health and occupational health interventions to improve CVD outcomes among migrant women workers including KC migrants.
Improvement of Oxygenation in Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome With High-Volume Continuous Veno-venous Hemofiltration
Authors: Yang Wenmin , Hong Jie , Zeng Qiyi , Tao Jianping , Chen Feiyan , Dang Run , Liang Yufeng , Wu Zhiyuan , Yang Yiyu
Published: May 2016

The efficacy and therapeutic mechanisms of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) for improvement of oxygenation in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remain controversial. These questions were addressed by retrospective analysis of severe ARDS patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit of our hospital from 2009 to 2015 who received high-volume continuous veno-venous hemofiltration during mechanical ventilation. There was a significant improvement in partial oxygen pressure/fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) 24 hours after CRRT onset compared with baseline (median change = 51.5; range = −19 to 450.5; P < .001) as well as decreases in FiO2, peak inspiratory pressure, positive end-expiratory pressure, and mean airway pressure ( P < .05). The majority of patients had a negative fluid balance after 24 hours of CRRT. White blood cell (WBC) count decreased in the subgroup with high baseline WBC count ( P < .05). PaO2/FiO2 was higher in ARDS patients with extrapulmonary etiology than in those with pulmonary etiology ( P < .05). Improvement in oxygenation is likely related to both restoration of fluid balance and clearance of inflammatory mediators.
From professionals to entrepreneurs: Human Resources practices as an enabler for fostering corporate entrepreneurship in professional service firms
Authors: Kühn Christopher , Eymann Torsten , Urbach Nils , Schweizer André
Published: May 2016

Professional Service Firms (PSFs) such as accounting, consulting, law, engineering or advertising firms increasingly face changing attitudes and fluctuation among young people with high potential who question traditional career and human resource (HR) concepts. In this context, it seems vital to foster a spirit of corporate entrepreneurship in PSFs to create an attractive environment that satisfies the autonomy-striving professionals. Our research is based on a multiple case study design that investigates how corporate entrepreneurship in the fields of elite accounting/consulting and law firms can be enabled by HR practices. Specifically, we analyse how contemporary PSFs manage to identify, select, build, reward, retain and let go of entrepreneurial professionals. Our findings imply that there are still challenges to overcome in the identification, selection and reward practices, while promising approaches for training and retention exist in order for entrepreneurial behaviour to prosper. Based on these findings, we present HR-related recommendations for fostering corporate entrepreneurship in PSFs and highlight some promising avenues for future research.
A principal components method constrained by elementary flux modes: analysis of flux data sets
Authors: von Stosch Moritz , Rodrigues de Azevedo Cristiana , Luis Mauro , Feyo de Azevedo Sebastiao , Oliveira Rui
Published: May 2016

Background

Non-negative linear combinations of elementary flux modes (EMs) describe all feasible reaction flux distributions for a given metabolic network under the quasi steady state assumption. However, only a small subset of EMs contribute to the physiological state of a given cell.

Results

In this paper, a method is proposed that identifies the subset of EMs that best explain the physiological state captured in reaction flux data, referred to as principal EMs (PEMs), given a pre-specified universe of EM candidates. The method avoids the evaluation of all possible combinations of EMs by using a branch and bound approach which is computationally very efficient. The performance of the method is assessed using simulated and experimental data of Pichia pastoris and experimental fluxome data of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The proposed method is benchmarked against principal component analysis (PCA), commonly used to study the structure of metabolic flux data sets.

Conclusions

The overall results show that the proposed method is computationally very effective in identifying the subset of PEMs within a large set of EM candidates (cases with ~100 and ~1000 EMs were studied). In contrast to the principal components in PCA, the identified PEMs have a biological meaning enabling identification of the key active pathways in a cell as well as the conditions under which the pathways are activated. This method clearly outperforms PCA in the interpretability of flux data providing additional insights into the underlying regulatory mechanisms.
Live imaging of muscle histolysis in Drosophila metamorphosis
Authors: Kuleesha Yadav , Puah Wee Choo , Wasser Martin
Published: May 2016

Background

The contribution of programmed cell death (PCD) to muscle wasting disorders remains a matter of debate. Drosophila melanogaster metamorphosis offers the opportunity to study muscle cell death in the context of development. Using live cell imaging of the abdomen, two groups of larval muscles can be observed, doomed muscles that undergo histolysis and persistent muscles that are remodelled and survive into adulthood.

Method

To identify and characterize genes that control the decision between survival and cell death of muscles, we developed a method comprising in vivo imaging, targeted gene perturbation and time-lapse image analysis. Our approach enabled us to study the cytological and temporal aspects of abnormal cell death phenotypes.

Results

In a previous genetic screen for genes controlling muscle size and cell death in metamorphosis, we identified gene perturbations that induced cell death of persistent or inhibit histolysis of doomed larval muscles. RNA interference (RNAi) of the genes encoding the helicase Rm62 and the lysosomal Cathepsin-L homolog Cysteine proteinase 1 (Cp1) caused premature cell death of persistent muscle in early and mid-pupation, respectively. Silencing of the transcriptional co-repressor Atrophin inhibited histolysis of doomed muscles. Overexpression of dominant-negative Target of Rapamycin (TOR) delayed the histolysis of a subset of doomed and induced ablation of all persistent muscles. RNAi of AMPKα, which encodes a subunit of the AMPK protein complex that senses AMP and promotes ATP formation, led to loss of attachment and a spherical morphology. None of the perturbations affected the survival of newly formed adult muscles, suggesting that the method is useful to find genes that are crucial for the survival of metabolically challenged muscles, like those undergoing atrophy. The ablation of persistent muscles did not affect eclosion of adult flies.

Conclusions

Live imaging is a versatile approach to uncover gene functions that are required for the survival of muscle undergoing remodelling, yet are dispensable for other adult muscles. Our approach promises to identify molecular mechanisms that can explain the resilience of muscles to PCD.
Viscoelastic amplitude variation with offset equations with account taken of jumps in attenuation angle
Authors: Moradi Shahpoor , Innanen Kristopher A.
Published: May 2016

Anelastic properties of reservoir rocks are important and sensitive indicators of fluid saturation and viscosity changes due (for instance) to steam injection. The description of seismic waves propagating through viscoelastic continua is quite complex, involving a range of unique homogeneous and inhomogeneous modes. This is true even in the relatively simple theoretical environment of amplitude variation with offset (AVO) analysis. For instance, a complete treatment of the problem of linearizing the solutions of the low-loss viscoelastic Zoeppritz equations to obtain an extended Aki-Richards equations (one that is in accord with the appropriate complex Snell’s law) is lacking in the literature. Also missing is a clear analytical path allowing such forms to be reconciled with more general volume scattering pictures of viscoelastic seismic wave propagation. Our analysis, which provides these two missing elements, leads to approximate reflection and transmission coefficients for the P- and type-I S-waves. These involve additional, complex terms alongside those of the standard isotropic-elastic Aki-Richards equations. The extra terms were shown to have a significant influence on reflection strengths, particularly when the degree of inhomogeneity was high. The particular AVO forms we evaluated were finally shown to be special cases of potentials for volume scattering from viscoelastic inclusions.
Joint inversion of multiple geophysical data using guided fuzzy c-means clustering
Authors: Sun Jiajia , Li Yaoguo
Published: May 2016

Joint inversion of multiple geophysical data has become an active area of research due to its potential to greatly enhance the fidelity of inverted models. Many open questions and challenges still remain. One of them is how to effectively incorporate into joint inversion multimodal petrophysical information that describes the statistical behavior of physical property values in the parameter domain (i.e., in a crossplot). We have regarded the multimodal petrophysical data as different clusters in the parameter domain and developed an approach that handles multimodal petrophysical information through guided fuzzy c-means (FCM) clustering in the parameter domain. We inverted the petrophysical data in the parameter domain in a similar manner to and simultaneously with the geophysical data in the spatial domain through minimizing one common objective function. Numerical examples have determined that the resulting models from this multidomain joint-inversion strategy are able to reproduce both the geophysical and the petrophysical data. In addition to incorporating a priori multimodal petrophysical information into inversion, guided FCM clustering also allows us to integrate geology differentiation and geophysical inversion into one unified framework that makes these two components positively affect each other. Geology differentiation results were obtained as a direct output from joint inversion. We have also developed a strategy for imposing different clustering constraints in different model regions, allowing region-specific a priori petrophysical information to be incorporated into inversion. We have applied our joint-inversion algorithm to the SEG/EAGE salt model in four different scenarios, and we found that the proposed algorithm produced much better geophysical models and geology differentiation results than separate inversions.
Maternal Hyperleptinemia Improves Offspring Insulin Sensitivity in Mice
Authors: Talton Omonseigho O. , Pennington Kathleen A. , Pollock Kelly E. , Bates Keenan , Ma Lixin , Ellersieck Mark R. , Schulz Laura C.
Published: May 2016

Maternal obesity and gestational diabetes are prevalent worldwide. Offspring of mothers with these conditions weigh more and are predisposed to metabolic syndrome. A hallmark of both conditions is maternal hyperleptinemia, but the role of elevated leptin levels during pregnancy on developmental programming is largely unknown. We previously found that offspring of hyperleptinemic mothers weighed less and had increased activity. The goal of this study was to determine whether maternal leptin affects offspring insulin sensitivity by investigating offspring glucose metabolism and lipid accumulation. Offspring from two maternal hyperleptinemic models were compared. The first model of hyperleptinemia is the Leprdb/+ mouse, which has a mutation in one copy of the gene that encodes the leptin receptor, resulting in a truncated long form of the receptor, and hyperleptinemia. Wild-type females served as the control for the Leprdb/+ females. For the second hyperleptinemic model, wild-type females were implanted with miniosmotic pumps, which released leptin (350 ng/h) or saline (as the control) just prior to mating and throughout gestation. In the offspring of these dams, we measured glucose tolerance; serum leptin, insulin, and triglyceride levels; liver triglycerides; pancreatic α- and β-cell numbers; body composition; incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; and the expression of key metabolic genes in the liver and adipose tissue. We found that the offspring of hyperleptinemic dams exhibited improved glucose tolerance, reduced insulin and leptin concentrations, reduced liver triglycerides, and a lower incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Overall, maternal hyperleptinemia was beneficial for offspring glucose and lipid metabolism.
Glucocorticoid Fast Feedback Inhibition of Stress-Induced ACTH Secretion in the Male Rat: Rate Independence and Stress-State Resistance
Authors: Osterlund Chad D. , Rodriguez-Santiago Mariana , Woodruff Elizabeth R. , Newsom Ryan J. , Chadayammuri Anjali P. , Spencer Robert L.
Published: May 2016

Normal glucocorticoid secretion is critical for physiological and mental health. Glucocorticoid secretion is dynamically regulated by glucocorticoid-negative feedback; however, the mechanisms of that feedback process are poorly understood. We assessed the temporal characteristics of glucocorticoid-negative feedback in vivo using a procedure for drug infusions and serial blood collection in unanesthetized rats that produced a minimal disruption of basal ACTH plasma levels. We compared the negative feedback effectiveness present when stress onset coincides with corticosterone's (CORT) rapidly rising phase (30 sec pretreatment), high plateau phase (15 min pretreatment), or restored basal phase (60 min pretreatment) as well as effectiveness when CORT infusion occurs after the onset of stress (5 min poststress onset). CORT treatment prior to stress onset acted remarkably fast (within 30 sec) to suppress stress-induced ACTH secretion. Furthermore, fast feedback induction did not require rapid increases in CORT at the time of stress onset (hormone rate independent), and those feedback actions were relatively long lasting (≥15 min). In contrast, CORT elevation after stress onset produced limited and delayed ACTH suppression (stress state resistance). There was a parallel stress-state resistance for CORT inhibition of stress-induced Crh heteronuclear RNA in the paraventricular nucleus but not Pomc heteronuclear RNA in the anterior pituitary. CORT treatment did not suppress stress-induced prolactin secretion, suggesting that CORT feedback is restricted to the control of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis elements of a stress response. These temporal, stress-state, and system-level features of in vivo CORT feedback provide an important physiological context for ex vivo studies of molecular and cellular mechanisms of CORT-negative feedback.
Longitudinal Associations of Phospholipid and Cholesteryl Ester Fatty Acids With Disorders Underlying Diabetes
Authors: Johnston Luke W. , Harris Stewart B. , Retnakaran Ravi , Zinman Bernard , Giacca Adria , Liu Zhen , Bazinet Richard P. , Hanley Anthony J.
Published: May 2016

Context:

Specific serum fatty acid (FA) profiles predict the development of incident type 2 diabetes; however, limited longitudinal data exist exploring their role in the progression of insulin sensitivity (IS) and β-cell function.

Objective:

To examine the longitudinal associations of the FA composition of serum phospholipid (PL) and cholesteryl ester (CE) fractions with IS and β-cell function over 6 years.

Design:

The Prospective Metabolism and Islet Cell Evaluation (PROMISE) cohort is a longitudinal observational study, with clinic visits occurring every 3 years. Three visits have been completed, totaling 6 years of follow-up.

Setting:

Individuals (n = 477) at risk for diabetes recruited from the general population in London and Toronto, Canada.

Main Outcome Measures:

Values from an oral glucose tolerance test were used to compute 1/HOMA-IR and the Matsuda index for IS, the insulinogenic index over HOMA-IR, and the insulin secretion-sensitivity index-2 for β-cell function. Thin-layer chromatograph and gas chromatograph quantified FA. Generalized estimating equations were used for the analysis.

Results:

IS and β-cell function declined by 8.3–19.4% over 6 years. In fully adjusted generalized estimating equation models, PL cis-vaccenate (18:1n-7) was positively associated with all outcomes, whereas γ-linolenate (GLA; 18:3n-6) and stearate (18:0) were negatively associated with IS. Tests for time interactions revealed that PL eicosadienoate (20:2n-6) and palmitate (16:0) and CE dihomo-γ-linolenate (20:3n-6), GLA, and palmitate had stronger associations with the outcomes after longer follow-up.

Conclusions:

In a Canadian population at risk for diabetes, we found that higher PL stearate and GLA and lower cis-vaccenic acid predicted consistently lower IS and β-cell function over 6 years.