bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Perceived Foreign Language Proficiency on Hybrid Team Culture
Authors: Fleischmann Carolin , Folter Laura-Christiane , Aritz Jolanta
Published: May 2017

This study examines the impact of perceived foreign language proficiency on hybrid culture building in multicultural teams. Hybrid culture includes a mutually shared set of norms, communication patterns, problem-solving approaches, and synergistic task coordination that result from the diverse cultural backgrounds of the team members. Language is the main vehicle for communication and plays a major role in social interaction and therefore hybrid culture building. We argue that the level of perceived language proficiency of multicultural team members influences hybrid culture building; consequently, adequate language skills lead not only to an efficient task solution but are also an important factor in creating interpersonal relationships and building a shared culture. Our empirical analysis supports the positive influence of language proficiency in hybrid teams; however, foreign language proficiency is more influential on cognitively oriented areas of multicultural teamwork than on affective ones.
Measuring segregation between rural migrants and local residents in urban China: An integrated spatio-social network analysis of Kecun in Guangzhou
Authors: Zhao Miaoxi , Wang Yiming
Published: June 2017

In this paper, we demonstrate an integrated spatio-social network analysis to measure the degree of segregation within a Chinese urban neighborhood in terms of the everyday activities by rural migrants and local urban residents at such routine venues as restaurants, grocery stores, barber shops, etc. Our data were collected in May 2014, through an integrated geographical and social survey conducted within an inner-city neighborhood around Kecun in south China’s Guangzhou Municipality. Although Kecun features a highly condensed and mixed dwelling pattern between the rural migrants and indigenous urban population, we find that within our sample of 110 local and 132 migrant residents, the former tend to socialize more inwardly with their peer locals and visit neighborhood amenities more often such as pubs, stadia, and public kindergartens. In contrast, the migrants tend to attend local roadside food stalls, outdoor recreation facilities, small clinic shops, grocery malls, and private ( minban) kindergartens more often. Overall, only a modest degree of social interaction between the locals and migrants appears to exist in Kecun. On top of the methodological implications of our study, we argue that urban segregation in China is both socially and spatially different from its Anglo-American counterpart. More empirical research is needed to understand and assess social segregation underlying the everyday urban life in Chinese cities.
AL amyloidosis patients with low amyloidogenic free light chain levels at first diagnosis have an excellent prognosis
Authors: Dittrich Tobias , Bochtler Tilmann , Kimmich Christoph , Becker Natalia , Jauch Anna , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Ho Anthony D. , Hegenbart Ute , Schönland Stefan O.
Published: May 2017

Key Points

AL patients with an initial dFLC <50 mg/L represent a distinct clinical subgroup with mostly renal disease and a favorable prognosis. These patients are evaluable for hematologic response including a novel low-dFLC partial response, which predict renal and overall survival.
A phase 1/2 study of the oral proteasome inhibitor ixazomib in relapsed or refractory AL amyloidosis
Authors: Sanchorawala Vaishali , Palladini Giovanni , Kukreti Vishal , Zonder Jeffrey A. , Cohen Adam D. , Seldin David C. , Dispenzieri Angela , Jaccard Arnaud , Schönland Stefan O. , Berg Deborah , Yang Huyuan , Gupta Neeraj , Hui Ai-Min , Comenzo Raymond L. , Merlini Giampaolo
Published: May 2017

This phase 1/2 study assessed the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of the oral proteasome inhibitor (PI) ixazomib in patients with relapsed/refractory immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis. Ixazomib was administered to adult patients with relapsed/refractory AL amyloidosis after 1 or more prior lines of therapy (including bortezomib) on days 1, 8, and 15 of 28-day cycles, for up to 12 cycles. Patients with less than partial response after 3 cycles received oral dexamethasone (40 mg, days 1-4) from cycle 4. A 3+3 dose-escalation phase was followed by 2 expansion cohorts (PI-naive and PI-exposed patients) at the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Twenty-seven patients were enrolled: 11 during dose escalation (6 at 4.0 mg and 5 at 5.5 mg) and 16 during dose expansion (4.0 mg). Three patients experienced dose-limiting toxicities: 1 at 4.0 mg and 2 at 5.5 mg; the MTD was determined as 4.0 mg. Most common adverse events (AEs) included nausea, skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders (SSTD), diarrhea, and fatigue; grade 3 or higher AEs included dyspnea, fatigue, and SSTD. Overall, the hematologic response rate was 52% in patients treated at the MTD (n = 21). Organ responses were seen in 56% of patients (5 cardiac, 5 renal). Median hematologic progression-free survival was 14.8 months; 1-year progression-free and overall survival rates were 60% and 85%, respectively (median follow-up, 16.9 months). Weekly oral ixazomib appears to be active in patients with relapsed/refractory AL amyloidosis, with a generally manageable safety profile. The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01318902. A phase 3 study is ongoing (#NCT01659658).
A population-based longitudinal study on the implication of demographic changes on blood donation and transfusion demand
Authors: Greinacher Andreas , Weitmann Kerstin , Schönborn Linda , Alpen Ulf , Gloger Doris , Stangenberg Wolfgang , Stüpmann Kerstin , Greger Nico , Kiefel Volker , Hoffmann Wolfgang
Published: May 2017

Key Points

Demographic changes have a direct impact on the blood supply, and demography can be used to predict blood donation rates in the future. The transfusion demand cannot be predicted from demography.
Race and Gender Differences in Undergraduate Research Mentoring Structures and Research Outcomes
Authors: Aikens Melissa L. , Robertson Melissa M. , Sadselia Sona , Watkins Keiana , Evans Mara , Runyon Christopher R. , Eby Lillian T. , Dolan Erin L.
Published: May 2017

Participating in undergraduate research with mentorship from faculty may be particularly important for ensuring the persistence of women and minority students in science. Yet many life science undergraduates at research universities are mentored by graduate or postdoctoral researchers (i.e., postgraduates). We surveyed a national sample of undergraduate life science researchers about the mentoring structure of their research experiences and the outcomes they realized from participating in research. We observed two common mentoring structures: an open triad with undergraduate–postgraduate and postgraduate–faculty ties but no undergraduate–faculty tie, and a closed triad with ties among all three members. We found that men and underrepresented minority (URM) students are significantly more likely to report a direct tie to their faculty mentors (closed triad) than women, white, and Asian students. We also determined that mentoring structure was associated with differences in student outcomes. Women’s mentoring structures were associated with their lower scientific identity, lower intentions to pursue a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) PhD, and lower scholarly productivity. URM students’ mentoring structures were associated with higher scientific identity, greater intentions to pursue a STEM PhD, and higher scholarly productivity. Asian students reported lower scientific identity and intentions to pursue a STEM PhD, which were unrelated to their mentoring structures.
S100A9 potentiates the activation of neutrophils by the etiological agent of gout, monosodium urate crystals
Authors: Rousseau Louis-Simon , Paré Guillaume , Lachhab Asmaa , Naccache Paul H , Marceau François , Tessier Philippe , Pelletier Martin , Fernandes Maria
Published: May 2017

Gout is one of the most painful types of arthritis that arises when the body mounts an acute inflammatory reaction against a crystallized form of uric acid known as monosodium urate crystals (MSUs). Although MSUs are known to activate neutrophils, the most abundant leukocyte in the synovial fluid of patients with gout, few studies have investigated the effect on neutrophils of the simultaneous stimulation with MSU and proinflammatory mediators in the inflamed joint. Herein, we focused on a protein that is highly expressed in the synovium in gout, S100A9. The predominant expression of S100A9 in and around blood vessels suggests it may prime neutrophils during their migration toward the inflamed joint. Using a combination of functional and signaling assays, we found that S100A9 enhances the production of radical oxygen species as well as IL-1 and IL-8 release by human neutrophils activated with MSU. Moreover, upstream and downstream signaling events activated by MSUs in human neutrophils were also potentiated by S100A9, including the mobilization of intracellular calcium stores, tyrosine phosphorylation, the serine phosphorylation of PKC substrates, Akt, and p38. We also show that S100A9 alone increases glycolysis in human neutrophils, which is suggestive of an additional mechanism through which neutrophils can be primed. Together, our observations indicate a novel way in which S100A9 may contribute to the pathogenesis of gout, by priming neutrophils to respond to MSUs.
HIV-1 decreases Nrf2/ARE activity and phagocytic function in alveolar macrophages
Authors: Staitieh Bashar S , Ding Lingmei , Neveu Wendy A , Spearman Paul , Guidot David M , Fan Xian
Published: May 2017

Respiratory complications occur frequently in individuals living with human immunodeficiency-1 virus (HIV) infection, and there is evidence that HIV-related oxidative stress impairs alveolar macrophage immune function. We hypothesized that nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), a master transcription factor that activates the antioxidant response element (ARE) and regulates antioxidant defenses, has an important role in alveolar macrophage (AMs) immune dysfunction in individuals with HIV infections. To test that hypothesis, we analyzed human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) that were either infected with HIV-1 or were exposed to the HIV-related proteins gp120 and Tat ex vivo and determined that either stress affected the expression of Nrf2 and the Nrf2-ARE–dependent genes for NAD(P)H dehydrogenase, quinone 1 (NQO1) and glutamate-cysteine ligase, catalytic subunit (GCLC). We then determined that the expression of Nrf2, NQO1, and GCLC was significantly decreased in primary AMs isolated from HIV-1 transgenic rats. In parallel, treating a rat macrophage cell line (NR8383 cells) with the HIV-related proteins gp120 or Tat similarly decreased the gene and protein expression of Nrf2, NQO1, and GCLC. Further, phagocytic function was decreased in both human MDMs infected with HIV-1 and primary AMs from HIV-1 transgenic rats. Importantly, treating HIV-1–infected human MDMs or AMs from HIV-1 transgenic rats with sulforaphane (SFN, an Nrf2 activator) significantly improved their phagocytic function. The salutary effects of SFN were abrogated by silencing RNA to Nrf2 in wild-type rat macrophages. Our findings demonstrate that HIV-1 infection and exposure to HIV-1–related proteins inhibit Nrf2-ARE activity in the AMs and impair their phagocytic function. Treatments targeted at increasing Nrf2-ARE activity could, therefore, enhance lung innate immunity in people living with HIV-1.
BCL6 represses antiviral resistance in follicular T helper cells
Authors: Amet Tohti , Son Young Min , Jiang Li , Cheon In Su , Huang Su , Gupta Samir K , Dent Alexander L , Montaner Luis J , Yu Qigui , Sun Jie
Published: May 2017

Follicular Th (Tfh) cells are a distinct subset of Th cells that help B cells produce class-switched antibodies. Studies have demonstrated that Tfh cells are highly prone to HIV infection and replication. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are largely unclear. Here, we show that murine and human Tfh cells have diminished constitutive expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) inclusive of antiviral resistance factor MX dynamin-like GTPase 2 (MX2) and IFN-induced transmembrane 3 (IFITM3) compared with non-Tfh cells. A lower antiviral resistance in Tfh was consistent with a higher susceptibility to retroviral infections. Mechanistically, we found that BCL6, a master regulator of Tfh cell development, binds to ISG loci and inhibits the expression of MX2 and IFITM3 in Tfh cells. We demonstrate further that inhibition of the BCL6 BR-C, ttk, and bab (BTB) domain function increases the expression of ISGs and suppresses HIV infection and replication in Tfh cells. Our data reveal a regulatory role of BCL6 in inhibiting antiviral resistance factors in Tfh cells, thereby promoting the susceptibility Tfh cells to viral infections. Our results indicate that the modulation of BCL6 function in Tfh cells could be a potential strategy to enhance Tfh cell resistance to retroviral infections and potentially decrease cellular reservoirs of HIV infection.
State of the Net
Authors: Farley Isaac
Published: June 2017

My SEG staff colleagues and I continually research the latest innovations within scholarly publishing to improve SEG publications and our digital offerings. Additionally, SEG has new and established channels to share your research with the geoscience community — be it through press releases, podcasts, author interviews, social media, or traditional search and discovery. As of last month, Kudos, a free author service aimed at aiding researchers in more clearly articulating and sharing their work — in plain English — to laypeople, peers, and the public, launched in the SEG Digital Library.
Mental capacity to consent to treatment and the association with outcome: A longitudinal study in patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Elzakkers Isis F.F.M. , Danner Unna N. , Sternheim Lot C. , McNeish Daniel , Hoek Hans W. , van Elburg Annemarie A.
Published: May 2017

Background

Relevance of diminished mental capacity in anorexia nervosa (AN) to course of disorder is unknown.

Aims

To examine prognostic relevance of diminished mental capacity in AN.

Method

A longitudinal study was conducted in 70 adult female patients with severe AN. At baseline, mental capacity was assessed by psychiatrists, and clinical and neuropsychological data (decision-making) were collected. After 1 and 2 years, clinical and neuropsychological assessments were repeated, and remission and admission rates were calculated.

Results

People with AN with diminished mental capacity had a less favourable outcome with regard to remission and were admitted more frequently. Their appreciation of illness remained hampered. Decision-making did not improve, in contrast to people with full mental capacity.

Conclusions

People with AN with diminished mental capacity seem to do less well in treatment and display decision-making deficiencies that do not ameliorate with weight improvement.
Vitamin D deficiency in adolescents in a tier 4 psychiatric unit
Authors: Stewart Neil F. , Lewis Simon N.
Published: June 2017

Aims and method

To review the current clinical practice and guidelines for testing and treating vitamin D deficiency in adolescents admitted to a tier 4 adolescent psychiatric unit in north London. The blood test results of 56 patients admitted between 2012 and 2014 were examined to determine whether vitamin D levels had been tested. For those individuals who were tested for vitamin D, results were analysed by gender and ethnicity.

Results

Of 56 patients admitted, 48% were tested for vitamin D deficiency and in 81.5% of cases we uncovered deficiency or severe deficiency; 18.5% had the minimum levels of vitamin D for bone health as per our trust guidelines.

Clinical implications

Adolescents within tier 4 adolescent mental health services may be at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency and so assessment of vitamin D levels should be considered as part of a standard physical health review for this group of young people.
REASONS FOR ACTIONS IN CASE OF THE ADMITTANCE CARD OF EXPENSES OF RARE SECURITY ON THE EXAMPLE OF FOOTHILL WATER STORAGE BASINS OF THE REPUBLIC OF CRIMEA
Authors: Мордвинцев Михаил , Mordvintsev Mikhail , Кувалкин Алексей , Kuvalkin Aleksey
Published: June 2017

The necessity of creation of an automated system for

monitoring and forecasting the state of the water bodies in the

area of influence of the reservoirs to ensure the safe operation of

hydraulic structures is substantiated. The composition and the

basic components of such a system are presented.
Prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in children with forearm fractures
Authors: Saglam Y. , Kizildag H. , Toprak G. , Alp N. B. , Yalcinkaya E. Y.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This study aimed to determine whether children with distal radius impaction fractures have increased prevalence of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D) insufficiency compared with healthy controls.

Patients and Methods

This is a prospective controlled study. The 30 children who were diagnosed with forearm fracture at the orthopaedic emergency clinic were included in the study and 30 healthy children from the routine paediatric outpatient unit were included as the control group. Peripheric venous 25(OH) D, calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), phosphor (P), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) of both groups were recorded. The sample size was estimated based on the effect size for a type I error of 5% and power of 80%.

Results

Demographic characteristics of the two groups did not differ in terms of weekly physical activity levels and breast milk intake. The mean whole body BMI was similar in both groups of patients. History of previous fracture and 25(OH) D level were significantly lower in the patient group than the control group.

Conclusion

In the present study, the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency was higher in patients with forearm impaction type fractures than healthy controls and the baseline levels reported in the literature. In addition, there were no significant differences in serum Ca, Mg, P, ALP and PTH levels between the healthy controls and the patient group.
Quando da tira pouco se tira. O uso da tira no livro didático de Língua Portuguesa: possibilidades e entraves
Authors: Menezes Tadna Simone Azevedo Ralile , Andrade Nair Floresta
Published: June 2017

Nos últimos anos, têm-se notado a inclusão e a utilização de Histórias em Quadrinhos – Tira – no ambiente educacional, o que tem gerado novos desafios para o professor preocupado com a formação do leitor autônomo e crítico, professor esse que almeja por melhores práticas pedagógicas, tendo o ensino-aprendizagem pautado na construção de um aluno letrado. No entanto, ao serem didatizadas no livro didático, algumas dessas possibilidades ficam comprometidas pela supremacia do uso do texto como pretexto para ensinar conteúdos gramaticais, criando-se, assim, entraves para o letramento do aluno. Diante do exposto, este trabalho tem por objetivo geral avaliar como o gênero Tira é explorado nos livros didáticos de Língua Portuguesa do Ensino Fundamental II, em especial no 9º ano.
Metodologia de pesquisa da história da arte para o estudo de obras de Salões de Arte da década de 1960
Authors: Santos Nelyane Gonçalves
Published: June 2017

Na tendência de estudos acerca dos salões na história da arte no Brasil é necessário o desenvolvimento de uma metodologia pautada na análise das obras que compuseram esses eventos. A constituição dos circuitos artísticos a partir da efervescência que os salões geravam entre artistas, críticos e público, nos chama a atenção sobre a necessidade de ampliarmos a compreensão das propostas artísticas vistas a partir da materialidade e visualidade das obras. Isto porque, o estabelecimento de marcos definidores de uma arte brasileira na transição do moderno ao contemporâneo, afastou os discursos históricos das obras e os aproximou da interpretação de fontes documentais, forçosamente associadas aos movimentos de arte em esfera internacional. Assim, a proposta metodológica que aqui se apresenta, coloca o desafio da interpretação das obras a partir de seus próprios vestígios e sentidos, sem desconsiderar a ampliação da pesquisa por meio de fontes documentais que esclareçam, mas não “profetizem” uma revelação de significado para a arte no Brasil da década de 1960.

ABSTRACT

The trend of studies on the salons in Brazil's art history is necessary to develop a guided methodology in the analysis of the works that made up those events. The constitution of the artistic circuit from the effervescence that the halls generated among artists, critics and the public draws our attention on the need to broaden the understanding of artistic proposals views from the visual and materiality of the works. This is because the establishment of the defining landmarks of Brazilian art in the transition from modern to contemporary, away from the historical discourse of the works and approached the interpretation of documentary sources, necessarily associated with art movements in the international sphere. Thus, the methodological proposal presented here, puts the challenge of interpretation of works from its own traces and directions, without disregarding the expansion of research through documentary sources to clarify, but not "prophesy" a revelation of significance for art in Brazil in the 1960s.

KEYWORDS

Methodology, art history, art salons, visuality, materiality.
Entrevista com Renato Mendonça: a Escola de Espectadores de Porto Alegre
Authors: Romano Olívia Camboim
Published: June 2017

Nesta entrevista, Renato Mendonça, jornalista, dramaturgo e coordenador da Escola de Espectadores de Porto Alegre (criada em 2013), expõe questões pertinentes às transformações que a EEPA vem passando ao longo de seu funcionamento, às dinâmicas dos encontros, à seleção dos espetáculos-tema e enfatiza o estímulo da Escola para que seus participantes tenham autonomia crítica e discutam junto com criadores as peças teatrais tratadas nas aulas. O coordenador da EEPA apresenta o perfil dos participantes e a busca da coordenação em manter a programação da Escola de Espectadores atrativa e estimulante para seus integrantes.

ABSTRACT

In this interview, Renato Mendonça, journalist and coordinator of Spectators School of Porto Alegre (created in 2013), presents the dynamics of the meetings, on the selection of plays and emphasizes the stimulation of school so that its participants have critical autonomy and discuss with the artists the spectacles treated in class. The coordinator of EEPA exposes on the profile of participants and the pursuit of coordination in maintaining programming Spectators School of attractive and stimulating for its members.

KEYWORDS

Spectators School, Porto Alegre City, Theater.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR OF BRAZILIAN ORGANIZATIONS: AN ANALYSIS OF ISOMORPHISM MECHANISM
Authors: Bogo Adelaide Maria , Schmitt Alan Christian , Henning Elisa , Menegotto Margarete L.A.
Published: May 2017

Human's behavior is determined by variables that are commonly understood as needs and motives and, in general, it is motivated by a desire to achieve some goal. According to Maslow, these needs are construct on a hierarchy composed of five groups - physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem and self-actualization. In order to fulfill these needs, organizations have social behavior to address the issues of human beings, individually or collectively way. Therefore, identifying the types of actions performed and then analyzing them in the context of basic human needs, will allow us to understand isomorphic features in the social behavior of these organizations. In this sense, this study aims to analyze the social behavior of Brazilian organizations and the existence of isomorphism in these practices. The sample consists of companies listed on the ISE-BOVESPA stock market and the data were collect in the Sustainability Reports. The methodology utilize Content Analysis technique to define the categories and descriptive statistics to understand the isomorphic behavior. The findings indicate a concentration of actions on the need for ‘Safety’ and the existence of coercive and normative isomorphism in social activities for internal audiences and mimetic isomorphism in actions aimed at external audiences.
SALES PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT: A STRATEGIC INITIATIVE TO THE GROWTH OF MICRO AND SMALL BUSINESSES
Authors: Galvão Evelyn Morais , Cotrim Syntia Lemos , Leal Gislaine Camila Lapasini , Aragão Franciely Velozo
Published: May 2017

Micro and small companies are lighting up in numbers and economic importance in the Brazilian market. In the sector of services, they already account for 27% of GDP. Given this importance, the purpose of this paper is to analyze how the integration of tools such as Planning Programming and Control of Production tools, together with the Quality Engineering tools such as performance management through indicators, can help to achieve the objectives of the organizations, especially small business, in the sales area. Boosting thus, strategically, these organizations to achieve and exceed their sales goals, become increasingly competitive, and growing in size and quality of service. The results obtained through the case study were satisfactory in 2014, where the signs of a crisis were already indicated in the country, this small business increased its sales by 12% compared to the year 2013.
Das Nationale Programm für nachhaltigen Konsum
Authors: Becker Romy
Published: June 2017

Ich bin 36 Jahre alt, verheiratet und habe ein Kind, bin studierte Kulturwissenschaftlerin und praktizierende Beraterin im Bereich Umwelt und Nachhaltigkeit. Vermutlich gehöre ich zum sogenannten Milieu der LOHAS. Doch ist mein Lebensstil nachhaltiger als andere?
Erneuerbare Energien in Deutschland im Kontext von Umweltbewusstsein und ökologischem Wertewandel
Authors: Stadermann Gerd
Published: June 2017

Wie kam es zu der weltweit anerkannten Spitzenforschung im Bereich der erneuerbaren Energien in Deut sch land? Der Artikel basiert auf einem Buchprojekt, das sich mit der Geschichte der Erforschung erneuerbarer Energien befasst. Diese Entwicklung wird anhand von Interviews mit Solarenergieforschern, die die Forschung seit den 1970er Jahren vorangetrieben haben, illustriert.
A Diagnostic Program of Vascular Tumor and Vascular Malformations in Children According to Modern Classification
Authors: Benzar Iryna
Published: May 2017

The aim of the study was to analyze the cohort of inpatient children with vascular anomalies according to the globally accepted classification introduced by the ISSVA. Methods: The study included 205 inpatient children within the time period of the years 2010–2015. Types of vascular anomalies (VAs), age of patients, diagnostic procedures, and anatomical localization of VAs were analyzed. Results: 65 patients of first year of life had vascular tumors, with prevalence of infantile hemangiomas (IHs) in 57 (87.7%) patients. 45 children had IHs localized within soft tissues, whereas 7 patients suffered from IHs of the liver, and 5 children from IHs of the respiratory tract. Most patients with soft tissue IHs were diagnosed only with ultrasound; СT or MRI diagnostics were performed on 5 (8.8%) patients, and biopsy was carried out in 2 (4.4%) children. Vascular malformations (VM) were diagnosed in 140 (68.3%) patients. Ultrasound investigation (US) was the screening method. MRI was performed to confirm the diagnosis of low-flow VM, whereas for high-flow VM CT angiography and selective angiography were useful. Venous malformations were diagnosed in 17 (12.1%) patients, and 112 (80.0%) had cystic LM, among them children under the age of 2 years prevailed. Arteriovenous malformations were diagnosed in 5 (3.8%) patients, ages 2–14 years. Conclusions: Clinical manifestations of vascular anomalies have clear age features. Among hospitalized children vascular tumors add up to 31.7% and VM – up to 68.3%.
Collaboration and Crisis in Mega Projects: A Study in Cross Corporate Culture Conflict and its Resolution
Authors: Smits Karen , Brownlow Robert A.
Published: June 2017

Projects typically involve multiple partners coming together to form a temporary project organization that manages project execution. Partners begin their relationship with soaring aspirations to collaborate but as they move through the project’s various phases and they experience friction, especially those related to cultural clashes, their noble aspirations succumb to creeping, if not full blown, crisis. This, in turn, creates lost relationality and compromised execution. Thus, the question: How can project partners manage the integration of differing corporate cultures and work processes to produce the most effective and efficient outcomes?  Using the mega project of the Panama Canal Expansion Program, the authors explore how a multicultural project organization moved from dysfunctional relationality to synergistic, self-reinforcing, collaboration. A “Collabyrinth” (Smits, 2013) model explores how participants learned to collaborate in a holding environment saturated with layers of complex cultural difference.  The Collabyrinth is composed of six comingling elements: (1) Conflicting Conditions, (2) Submarining, (3) Seeking Consent, (4) Storytelling, (5) Crafting Reciprocal Relations, (6) Synergizing. Certain aspects of crisis management are employed to explain intra-collabyrinth dynamics. Those aspects are: (1) Coming of the Forerunners, (2) Acuteness in the Now, (3) Resolution Seeking, and (4) Constructing Relationality. Specific examples of the collabyrinth journey are provided and recommendations are made to harness the positive power of cross-corporate culture collaboration.
Beta-2 Adrenergic Receptor Genotype Influences Power Output in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Kelley Eli F. , Johnson Bruce D. , Snyder Eric M.
Published: May 2017

Kelley, EF, Johnson, BD, and Snyder, EM. Beta-2 adrenergic receptor genotype influences power output in healthy subjects. J Strength Cond Res 31(8): 2053–2059, 2017—The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of ADRB2 genotypes on muscle function (absolute power and relative power) in healthy subjects. We performed genotyping of the ADRB2 (amino acid 16) and high-intensity, steady-state exercise on 77 healthy subjects (AA = 18, AG = 25, GG = 34). There were no differences between genotype groups in age, height, weight, or body mass index (BMI) (age = 28.9 ± 5.7 years, 27.9 ± 5.7 years, 29.2 ± 5.9 years, height = 170.7 ± 8.6 cm, 174.9 ± 8.7 cm, 173.4 ± 9.6 cm, weight = 68.5 ± 13.0 kg, 75.0 ± 12.9 kg, 74.4 ± 12.9 kg, and BMI = 23.4 ± 3.9, 24.4 ± 2.9, 24.7 ± 3.4, for AA, AG, and GG, respectively). The genotype groups differed significantly in watts, and watts/V̇o
2 with heavy exercise (watts = 186.3 ± 54.6, 237.8 ± 54.4, 219.4 ± 79.5, watts/V̇o
2 = 0.08 ± 0.006, 0.09 ± 0.005, 0.08 ± 0.006). There was a trend toward significance (p = 0.058) for W·kg−1 (2.7 ± 0.4, 3.2 ± 0.5, 2.9 ± 0.8, for AA, AG, and GG, respectively). These data suggest that genetic variation of the ADRB2 may influence relative strength in healthy subjects and may become an important genetic determinant of muscular strength and functional capacity in patients with diseases that result in a loss of muscle strength.
Short-Term Effects of Resistance Training Modalities on Performance Measures in Male Adolescents
Authors: Winwood Paul W. , Buckley Jaydon J.
Published: May 2017

Winwood, PW and Buckley, JJ. Short-term effects of resistance training modalities on performance measures in male adolescents. J Strength Cond Res 33(3): 641–650, 2019—This study compared the effects of 7 weeks of bodyweight, mobility, and resistance training programs on strength, power, and sprint times. Thirty-nine male adolescents (aged 14–15 years) were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: bodyweight and mobility training (BMT) (n = 25) or combined bodyweight, mobility, and free-weights training (CBT) (n = 14). A physical education class (n = 23) of similar age constituted a control group (CON). Both training groups performed 2 BMT sessions per week, and the CBT group performed 2 additional free-weight resistance exercise training sessions. Pretesting and posttesting consisted of vertical and horizontal jump tests, 5- and 20-m sprint tests, 2-kg medicine ball throw test, and maximal number of press ups. Small significant improvements (p ≤ 0.01) between pre-post measures were observed in the CBT group for 20 m (↑2.4%; effect size [ES] = −0.45) sprint time and horizontal jump distance (↑4.2%; ES = 0.43). No significant differences existed between the groups when the mean changes were compared. Effect sizes demonstrated training improvements were in favor of the CBT group (for sprint times, horizontal jump distance, and maximal press ups; ES = 0.35 to −1.35) compared with the BMT and CON groups and in favor of the BMT group (for sprint times and horizontal jump distance; ES = −0.33 to 0.34) compared with the CON group. Seven weeks of BMT and CBT can be beneficial for the development of physical performance capacities in untrained male adolescents. Increased training frequency with the addition of free weights provided the greatest training effects.
Role of Cholesterol Crystals During Acute Myocardial Infarction and Cerebrovascular Accident
Authors: Kalavakunta Jagadeesh K. , Mittal Mayank K. , Janoudi Abed , Abela Oliver G. , Alreefi Fadi , Abela George S.
Published: May 2017

Cholesterol crystals have long been recognized as part of atherosclerotic plaques. They have been visualized by light microscopy as empty spaces or imprints where crystals were once present and then dissolved by tissue processing. Thus, until now, their role in atherosclerosis and plaque rupture had been considered to be inert. However, by the processing of tissue without ethanol it was possible to visualize their extensiveness and potential role in tissue injury. Also, it was demonstrated that cholesterol expands in volume when crystallizing from the liquid to the solid state, which is the presumed cause of plaque rupture by sharp-tipped crystals growing out of the plaque’s necrotic core. Specifically, in patients who died of myocardial infarction, all culprit coronary lesions had extensive cholesterol crystals perforating the fibrous cap and intima, while those patients who died of other causes and had plaques did not have crystals perforating the cap and intima. Additionally, cholesterol crystals traveling downstream from the plaque rupture site can scrape the endothelium and promote vasospasm. Moreover, cholesterol crystals lodging into the muscle can trigger an inflammation with necrosis independent of circulatory compromise or ischemia. These findings suggest that cholesterol crystals could play a critical role in plaque rupture, as well as vascular and myocardial injury.
Nucleus Accumbens Shell Dopamine Preferentially Tracks Information Related to Outcome Value of Reward
Authors: Sackett Deirdre A. , Saddoris Michael P. , Carelli Regina M.
Published: May 2017

Effective decision-making requires organisms to predict reward values and bias behavior toward the best available option. The mesolimbic dopamine system, including the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell and core, is involved in this process. Although studies support a role of the shell and core in specific aspects of decision-making (e.g., risk, effort, delay), no studies have directly compared dopamine release dynamics in these subregions to cues exclusively signaling the availability of different reward magnitudes. Here, fast-scan cyclic voltammetry was used to compare rapid dopamine release dynamics in the NAc subregions during a magnitude-based decision-making task. Rats learned that distinct cues signaled the availability of either a small or large reward (one or two sugar pellets), and then were given an opportunity to choose their preferred option. We found that peak dopamine release tracked the more preferred (higher-magnitude) option in both core and shell subregions. Critically, however, overall (i.e., global) dopamine release was significantly higher and longer lasting in the shell and tracked the preferred magnitude during the entire cue period. Further, in the shell (not core), dopamine signaling significantly declined immediately at the lever press for reward but increased during the period of reward consumption. Collectively, the results indicate that although dopamine release in both the core and shell are activated by cues signaling the opportunity to respond for rewards of different magnitudes, dopamine release in the shell plays a differential and unique role in tracking information related to the outcome value of reward.
Proactive Control: Neural Oscillatory Correlates of Conflict Anticipation and Response Slowing
Authors: Chang Andrew , Ide Jaime S. , Li Hsin-Hung , Chen Chien-Chung , Li Chiang-Shan R.
Published: May 2017

Proactive control allows us to anticipate environmental changes and adjust behavioral strategy. In the laboratory, investigators have used a number of different behavioral paradigms, including the stop-signal task (SST), to examine the neural processes of proactive control. Previous functional MRI studies of the SST have demonstrated regional responses to conflict anticipation—the likelihood of a stop signal or P(stop) as estimated by a Bayesian model—and reaction time (RT) slowing and how these responses are interrelated. Here, in an electrophysiological study, we investigated the time–frequency domain substrates of proactive control. The results showed that conflict anticipation as indexed by P(stop) was positively correlated with the power in low-theta band (3–5 Hz) in the fixation (trial onset)-locked interval, and go-RT was negatively correlated with the power in delta-theta band (2–8 Hz) in the go-locked interval. Stimulus prediction error was positively correlated with the power in the low-beta band (12–22 Hz) in the stop-locked interval. Further, the power of the P(stop) and go-RT clusters was negatively correlated, providing a mechanism relating conflict anticipation to RT slowing in the SST. Source reconstruction with beamformer localized these time–frequency activities close to brain regions as revealed by functional MRI in earlier work. These are the novel results to show oscillatory electrophysiological substrates in support of trial-by-trial behavioral adjustment for proactive control.
VMAT2-Mediated Neurotransmission from Midbrain Leptin Receptor Neurons in Feeding Regulation
Authors: Xu Yuanzhong , Lu Yungang , Xu Pingwen , Mangieri Leandra R. , Isingrini Elsa , Xu Yong , Giros Bruno , Tong Qingchun
Published: May 2017

Leptin receptors (LepRs) expressed in the midbrain contribute to the action of leptin on feeding regulation. The midbrain neurons release a variety of neurotransmitters including dopamine (DA), glutamate and GABA. However, which neurotransmitter mediates midbrain leptin action on feeding remains unclear. Here, we showed that midbrain LepR neurons overlap with a subset of dopaminergic, GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons. Specific removal of vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) in midbrain LepR neurons (KO mice) disrupted DA accumulation in vesicles, but failed to cause a significant change in the evoked release of either glutamate or GABA to downstream neurons. While KO mice showed no differences on chow, they presented a reduced high-fat diet (HFD) intake and resisted to HFD-induced obesity. Specific activation of midbrain LepR neurons promoted VMAT2-dependent feeding on chow and HFD. When tested with an intermittent access to HFD where first 2.5-h HFD eating (binge-like) and 24-h HFD feeding were measured, KO mice exhibited more binge-like, but less 24-h HFD feeding. Interestingly, leptin inhibited 24-h HFD feeding in controls but not in KO mice. Thus, VMAT2-mediated neurotransmission from midbrain LepR neurons contributes to both binge-like eating and HFD feeding regulation.
Differential Effects of Retinoic Acid Concentrations in Regulating Blood–Brain Barrier Properties
Authors: Bonney Stephanie , Siegenthaler Julie A.
Published: May 2017

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a multifaceted property of the brain vasculature that protects the brain and maintains homeostasis by tightly regulating the flux of ions, molecules, and cells across the vasculature. Blood vessels in the brain are formed by endothelial cells that acquire barrier properties, such as tight and adherens junctions, soon after the brain vasculature is formed. Endothelial WNT signaling is crucial to induce these BBB properties by regulating their expression and stabilization. Recent studies have implicated retinoic acid (RA) signaling in BBB development and shown that pharmacological concentrations of RA (≥5 µm) can induce BBB properties in cultured brain endothelial cells. However, a recent study demonstrated that RA inhibits endothelial WNT signaling during brain development, suggesting that RA does not promote BBB properties. We therefore investigated whether RA plays a physiological role in BBB development. We found that BBB function and junctional protein expression was unaffected in mouse mutants that have a reduced capacity to synthesize RA (Rdh10mutants). Furthermore, embryos exposed to a RA-enriched diet did not enhance BBB protein expression. Together, our data indicate that RA is not capable of inducing, nor is it required for, BBB protein expressionin vivo. Like other studies, we found that pharmacological concentrations of RA induce BBB genes in cultured murine brain endothelial cells, and this may involve activation of the LXR/RXR signaling pathway. Our data do not support a role for RA in BBB development, but confirm reports that pharmacological RA is a robust tool to induce BBB properties in culture.
Disruption of the Axonal Trafficking of Tyrosine Hydroxylase mRNA Impairs Catecholamine Biosynthesis in the Axons of Sympathetic Neurons
Authors: Aschrafi Armaz , Gioio Anthony E. , Dong Lijin , Kaplan Barry B.
Published: May 2017

Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) is the enzyme that catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of the catecholamine neurotransmitters. In a previous communication, evidence was provided that TH mRNA is trafficked to the axon, where it is locally translated. In addition, a 50-bp sequence element in the 3′untranslated region (3’UTR) of TH mRNA was identified that directs TH mRNA to distal axons (i.e., zip-code). In the present study, the hypothesis was tested that local translation of TH plays an important role in the biosynthesis of the catecholamine neurotransmitters in the axon and/or presynaptic nerve terminal. Toward this end, a targeted deletion of the axonal transport sequence element was developed, using the lentiviral delivery of the CRISPR/Cas9 system, and two guide RNA (gRNA) sequences flanking the 50-bpcis-acting regulatory element in rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons. Deletion of the axonal transport element reduced TH mRNA levels in the distal axons and reduced the axonal protein levels of TH and TH activity as measured by phosphorylation of SER40 in SCG neurons. Moreover, deletion of the zip-code diminished the axonal levels of dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE). Conversely, the local translation of exogenous TH mRNA in the distal axon enhanced TH levels and activity, and elevated axonal NE levels. Taken together, these results provide direct evidence to support the hypothesis that TH mRNA trafficking and local synthesis of TH play an important role in the synthesis of catecholamines in the axon and presynaptic terminal.
30 YEARS OF THE MINERALOCORTICOID RECEPTOR: Mineralocorticoid receptor null mice: informing cell-type-specific roles
Authors: Cole Timothy J , Young Morag J
Published: May 2017

The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) mediates the actions of two important adrenal corticosteroid hormones, aldosterone and cortisol. The cell signalling roles of the MR in vivo have expanded enormously since the cloning of human MR gene 30 years ago and the first MR gene knockout in mice nearly 20 years ago. Complete ablation of the MR revealed important roles postnatally for regulation of kidney epithelial functions, with MR-null mice dying 1–2 weeks postnatally from renal salt wasting and hyperkalaemia, with elevated plasma renin and aldosterone. Generation of tissue-selective MR-deficient mice using Cre recombinase-LoxP gene targeting has made it possible to analyse mice lacking MR only in specific cell types. Targeting renal-specific MR has differentiated roles in specific compartments of the kidney. Ablating MR in neurons of the forebrain reinforced important roles of the MR in response to stress, behaviour and anxiety, but suggested a minimal role in maintaining basal HPA axis tone. Deletion of the MR in macrophages and other cell types of the cardiovascular system clearly defined important roles for the regulation of cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. Knockdown of MR mRNA in vivo using antisense/siRNA approaches, and similarly MR overexpression, has provided useful rodent models to study physiological roles of MR signalling in vivo. More recently, targeted mutation of specific domains of the MR such as the DBD has defined genomic vs non-genomic roles in vivo. New tissue-selective MR-null models are required to define roles of MR signalling in other regions of the brain, the eye, gastrointestinal tract, lung, skin, breast and gonadal organs.
The Genetic Architecture of Ovariole Number inDrosophila melanogaster: Genes with Major, Quantitative, and Pleiotropic Effects
Authors: Lobell Amanda S , Kaspari Rachel R , Serrano Negron Yazmin L , Harbison Susan T
Published: May 2017

Ovariole number has a direct role in the number of eggs produced by an insect, suggesting that it is a key morphological fitness trait. Many studies have documented the variability of ovariole number and its relationship to other fitness and life-history traits in natural populations of Drosophila. However, the genes contributing to this variability are largely unknown. Here, we conducted a genome-wide association study of ovariole number in a natural population of flies. Using mutations and RNAi-mediated knockdown, we confirmed the effects of 24 candidate genes on ovariole number, including a novel gene, anneboleyn (formerly CG32000), that impacts both ovariole morphology and numbers of offspring produced. We also identified pleiotropic genes between ovariole number traits and sleep and activity behavior. While few polymorphisms overlapped between sleep parameters and ovariole number, 39 candidate genes were nevertheless in common. We verified the effects of seven genes on both ovariole number and sleep: bin3, blot, CG42389, kirre, slim, VAChT, and zfh1. Linkage disequilibrium among the polymorphisms in these common genes was low, suggesting that these polymorphisms may evolve independently.
Statistical Methods for Latent Class Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping
Authors: Ye Shuyun , Bacher Rhonda , Keller Mark P , Attie Alan D , Kendziorski Christina
Published: May 2017

Identifying the genetic basis of complex traits is an important problem with the potential to impact a broad range of biological endeavors. A number of effective statistical methods are available for quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping that allow for the efficient identification of multiple, potentially interacting, loci under a variety of experimental conditions. Although proven useful in hundreds of studies, the majority of these methods assumes a single model common to each subject, which may reduce power and accuracy when genetically distinct subclasses exist. To address this, we have developed an approach to enable latent class QTL mapping. The approach combines latent class regression with stepwise variable selection and traditional QTL mapping to estimate the number of subclasses in a population, and to identify the genetic model that best describes each subclass. Simulations demonstrate good performance of the method when latent classes are present as well as when they are not, with accurate estimation of QTL. Application of the method to case studies of obesity and diabetes in mouse gives insight into the genetic basis of related complex traits.