bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA‐302b‐inhibited E2F3 transcription factor is related to all trans retinoic acid‐induced glioma cell apoptosis
Authors: Chen Peng‐Hsu , Shih Chwen‐Ming , Chang Wei‐Chiao , Cheng Chia‐Hsiung , Lin Cheng‐Wei , Ho Kuo‐hao , Su Po‐Chia , Chen Ku‐Chung 
Published: July 2014

AbstractAll‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA), a derivative of retinoid, is involved in the onset of differentiation and apoptosis in a wide variety of normal and cancer cells. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that control gene expression. Several miRNAs were identified to participate in ATRA‐mediated cell differentiation. However, no studies have demonstrated whether miRNA can enhance ATRA cytotoxicity, thereby resulting in cell apoptosis. This study investigated the effects of ATRA‐mediated miRNA expression in activating apoptotic pathways in glioblastoma. First, we found that high‐dose ATRA treatment significantly reduced cell viability, caspase‐dependent apoptosis, endoplasmic reticular (ER) stress activation, and intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation. From microarray data, miR‐302b was analyzed as a putative downstream regulator upon ATRA treatment. Furthermore, we found that ATRA up‐regulated miR‐302b expression in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner through retinoic acid receptor α‐mediated pathway. Overexpression and knockdown of miR‐302b significantly influenced ATRA‐mediated cytotoxicity. E2F3, an important transcriptional regulator of glioma proliferation, was validated to be a direct target gene of miR‐302b. The miR‐302b‐reduced E2F3 levels were also identified to be associated with ATRA‐mediated glioma cell death. These results emphasize that an ATRA‐mediated miR‐302b network may provide novel therapeutic strategies for glioblastoma therapy.
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We propose that high‐dose all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) treatment, a derivative of retinoid, significantly induces glioblastoma cell apoptosis via caspase‐dependent apoptosis, endoplasmic reticular (ER) stress, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. The miR‐302b overexpression enhanced by ATRA‐mediated retinoic acid receptor (RAR)α pathway was also identified. The E2F3 repression, a novel target gene of miR‐302b, was involved in ATRA‐induced glioblastoma cell cytotoxicity.
Happiness in Motion: Emotions, Well‐Being, and Active School Travel
Authors: Ramanathan Subha , O'Brien Catherine , Faulkner Guy , Stone Michelle 
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDA pan‐Canadian School Travel Planning intervention promoted active school travel (AST). A novel component was exploring emotion, well‐being, and travel mode framed by the concept of “sustainable happiness.” Relationships between travel mode and emotions, parent perceptions of their child's travel mode on well‐being, and factors related to parent perceptions were examined.METHODSQuestionnaires were administered to families (N = 5423) from 76 elementary schools. Explanatory variables were demographics (age and sex), school travel measures (mode, distance, accompaniment by an adult, safety, and barriers), and emotions (parent and child). Outcomes examined parent perceived benefits of travel mode on dimensions of well‐being (physical, emotional, community, and environmental). Descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests and hierarchical regression were used.RESULTSParents and children who used AST reported more positive emotions versus passive travelers. Parents of active travelers reported stronger connections to dimensions of well‐being. AST had the strongest association with parents' perceptions of their child's well‐being, and positive emotions (parent and child) were also significantly related to well‐being on the trip to school.CONCLUSIONSAs an additional potential benefit of AST, interventions should raise awareness of the positive emotional experiences for children and their parents. Future research should experimentally examine if AST causes these emotional benefits.
Area Disparity in Children's Perceptions of Access to Tobacco and Cigarette Purchasing Experiences in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Heng , Hsu Chih‐Cheng , Chen Fu‐Li , Yen Yea‐Yin , Lin Pi‐Li , Chiu Yu‐Wen , Lee Chien‐Hung , Peng Wu‐Der , Chen Ted , Lu Di‐Lin , Huang Hsiao‐Ling 
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDAdolescents who perceive easy access to tobacco are more likely to acquire cigarettes and experience smoking. This study assesses area disparities in perceptions of access to tobacco and cigarette purchasing experiences among schoolchildren.METHODSData on children's tobacco‐related variables were obtained from the Control of School‐Aged Children Smoking Study Survey in Taiwan. A stratified random sample of 65 primary schools was included. Polytomous logistic regression analyzed factors associated with tobacco accessibility and purchasing experiences.RESULTSMore than half of the children reported that tobacco retailers often or always sold cigarettes to them. Rural and mountainous children were more likely to have access to cigarettes (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.01 and 3.01, respectively) and have cigarette purchasing experiences (AOR = 3.06 and 13.76, respectively). Cigarette purchasing from retailers (AOR = 1.84) was significantly associated with children's perceptions of access to tobacco. The factors associated with cigarette purchasing experiences were families smoking (AOR = 8.90), peers smoking (AOR = 2.22), frequent exposure to entertainer smoking on TV and in films (AOR = 2.15), and perceived access to tobacco (AOR = 1.51).CONCLUSIONSThe health department should strictly enforce laws regarding retailers selling tobacco to underage, particularly in remote areas. Schools can reinforce tobacco‐use prevention messages.
Usual Source of Cigarettes and Alcohol Among US High School Students
Authors: Everett Jones Sherry , Caraballo Ralph S. 
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDCigarette and alcohol use are common among youth. We examined sources of cigarettes and alcohol among youth who were current cigarette and alcohol users.METHODSWe analyzed nationally representative data from the 2009 and 2011 national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys—biennial, school‐based surveys of high school students in the United States. Students completed anonymous, self‐administered questionnaires. Overall response rates were 71% for both years.RESULTSAmong the 17.3% of current cigarette users <18 years, 27.3% usually gave someone else money to buy their cigarettes and 27.7% usually borrowed (bummed) them. Fewer (14.1%) usually bought their own cigarettes in a store. Among the 40.3% of current alcohol users, 24.3% usually gave someone else money to buy it and 41.2% usually had someone give it to them. A few (4.5%) usually bought their own alcohol in a store. Age and intensity of use were positively associated with students buying their own cigarettes or alcohol, but negatively associated with students borrowing or having someone else give it to them.CONCLUSIONSBecause social and commercial sources of cigarettes and alcohol are common, multiple strategies are needed to reduce the ability for youth to obtain them and reduce their desire for them.
The Impact of a Physical Activity Intervention Program on Academic Achievement in a Swedish Elementary School Setting
Authors: Käll Lina B. , Nilsson Michael , Lindén Thomas 
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDDespite the emerging body of research on the potential of physical activity to improve learning and academic achievement, conclusive evidence regarding the effects of physical activity on academic achievement is lacking. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of a physical activity intervention program on academic performance.METHODSA controlled cross‐sectional design was used to investigate the hypothesis that the intervention program would increase the proportion of students in grade 5 who achieved the national learning goals in Swedish, mathematics, and English compared with 3 reference schools. Academic results from the years prior to and during the intervention program were analyzed. Logistic regression analyses assessed the odds of achieving the national learning goals when the intervention program was integrated into the elementary curricula.RESULTSHigher proportions of students in the intervention school achieved the national goals in all 3 subjects compared with the reference schools after initiation of the intervention program. The odds for achieving the national learning goals in the intervention school increased 2‐fold (p < .05), whereas these odds either did not change or decreased in the reference schools.CONCLUSIONPromoting physical activity in school by means of a curriculum‐based intervention program may improve children's educational outcome.
Phytophthora Crown and Root Rot of Apricot Caused by Phytophthora palmivora in Turkey
Authors: Türkölmez Şahimerdan , Çiftçi Osman , Canıhoş Ercan , Serçe Çigdem U. , Derviş Sibel 
Published: July 2014

AbstractForty‐nine Phytophthora isolates were obtained from roots and crown of apricot trees with symptoms of decline grown in commercial orchards in Malatya, Elazığ and Diyarbakır provinces, Turkey, in 2011 and 2013. All of the recovered isolates were identified as Phytophthora palmivora on the basis of morphological characteristics. Blast analysis of ITS region sequences of rDNA of 5 isolates revealed 100% identity with a reference isolates of P. palmivora from GenBank. Isolates of P. palmivora were pathogenic on 12‐month‐old wild apricot rootstock ‘Zerdali’ plants that were wound inoculated on the roots and on the crown. This study demonstrated that P. palmivora is the cause of the crown and root rot found on apricot in Turkey. To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. palmivora on this host plant.
Determinants of Sexual Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis in Male and Female Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: Results from an Italian Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fragalà Eugenia , Privitera Salvatore , Giardina Raimondo , Di Rosa Alessandro , Russo Giorgio Ivan , Favilla Vincenzo , Caramma Andrea , Patti Francesco , Cimino Sebastiano , Morgia Giuseppe 
Published: July 2014

Abstract

Introduction
Sexual dysfunction (SD) is prevalent in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and affects quality of life. Furthermore, lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) is common in MS patients.

Aims
This study aims to evaluate the relationship between SD, neurological disability, depression, anxiety, and urodynamic alterations in patients with MS and LUTD.

Methods
From January 2011 to September 2013, 135 consecutive patients with MS in remission phase and LUTD underwent first urodynamic examination, according to the International Continence Society criteria. Depression and anxiety were evaluated with the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D) and the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A), neurological impairment was assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and SD was investigated with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) or the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15).

Main Outcome Measures
Multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify variables for predicting female sexual dysfunction (FSD) (FSFI &lt; 26.55), male SD (IIEF-15 &lt; 60), or moderate-severe erectile dysfunction (IIEF-EF ≤ 16), after adjusting for confounding factors.

Results
Total IIEF-15 and all subdomains (all P &lt; 0.01), total FSFI, FSFI-arousal, FSFI-lubrication, and FSFI-orgasm (all P &lt; 0.05) were lower in subjects with EDSS ≥ 4.5. We found inverse relationship between IIEF-15 and relative subdomains with EDSS (all P &lt; 0.01) and between FSFI and relative subdomains with EDSS (all P &lt; 0.01), HAM-D (all P &lt; 0.01), and HAM-A (all P &lt; 0.01). Continuous EDSS (odds ratio [OR] = 1.54; P = 0.03) and categorical EDSS (≥4.5) (OR = 6.0; P = 0.03), HAM-D (OR = 4.74; P = 0.03), and HAM-A (OR = 4.10; P = 0.02) were significantly associated with FSD (FSFI &lt; 26.55). Detrusor overactivity (DO) was an independent predictor of moderate-severe ED (IIEF-EF ≤ 16) (OR = 2.03; P &lt; 0.01), and of FSD (OR = 9.73; P = 0.04).

Conclusions
Neurological disability, depression and DO are significantly predictive of SD in MS patients, irrespective of gender. An EDSS ≥ 4.5 may significantly predict the presence of SD.
Invasive polychaete Boccardia proboscidea Hartman, 1940 (Polychaeta: Spionidae) in sewage‐impacted areas of the SW Atlantic coasts: morphological and reproductive patterns
Authors: Jaubet María L. , Garaffo Griselda V. , Vallarino Eduardo A. , Elías Rodolfo 
Published: July 2014

AbstractBoccardia proboscidea is an alien polychaete species that has been introduced to the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean. This polychaete species has invaded intertidal benthic rocky shores, and builds reefs formed by thousands of individuals per square meter with densities up to 1,500,000 ind.·m−2 in organically impacted sites. This phenomenon was first recorded in Argentina in 2008. This is the first comprehensive study on the morphology, habitat and reproductive biology of B. proboscidea associated with the sewage‐induced abrasion platforms on the Argentinean coasts. Adult morphology of B. proboscidea from Mar del Plata is described and a comparison with material from other locations is made. Results showed that B. proboscidea from Mar del Plata, Argentina share the same diagnostic features as those of the individuals from the original description (California). Moreover, the results also indicated that the reproduction of this species involves a poecilogonous development (production of more than one type of offspring with both kinds of larvae) and implicates adelphophagy (nurse egg ingestion). Patterns of larval development varied both within a single brood and among broods of different females. Continuous reproduction of B. proboscidea coupled with a continuous supply of organic matter could explain the possible mechanism that led to the development of reefs.
Urban population genetics of slum‐dwelling rats (Rattus norvegicus) in Salvador, Brazil
Authors: Kajdacsi Brittney , Costa Federico , Hyseni Chaz , Porter Fleur , Brown Julia , Rodrigues Gorete , Farias Helena , Reis Mitermayer G. , Childs James E. , Ko Albert I. , Caccone Adalgisa 
Published: July 2014

AbstractThroughout the developing world, urban centres with sprawling slum settlements are rapidly expanding and invading previously forested ecosystems. Slum communities are characterized by untended refuse, open sewers and overgrown vegetation, which promote rodent infestation. Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) are reservoirs for epidemic transmission of many zoonotic pathogens of public health importance. Understanding the population ecology of R. norvegicus is essential to formulate effective rodent control strategies, as this knowledge aids estimation of the temporal stability and spatial connectivity of populations. We screened for genetic variation, characterized the population genetic structure and evaluated the extent and patterns of gene flow in the urban landscape using 17 microsatellite loci in 146 rats from nine sites in the city of Salvador, Brazil. These sites were divided between three neighbourhoods within the city spaced an average of 2.7 km apart. Surprisingly, we detected very little relatedness among animals trapped at the same site and found high levels of genetic diversity, as well as structuring across small geographical distances. Most FST comparisons among sites were statistically significant, including sites <400 m apart. Bayesian analyses grouped the samples in three genetic clusters, each associated with distinct sampling sites from different neighbourhoods or valleys within neighbourhoods. These data indicate the existence of complex genetic structure in R. norvegicus in Salvador, linked to the heterogeneous urban landscape. Future rodent control measures need to take into account the spatial and temporal linkage of rat populations in Salvador, as revealed by genetic data, to develop informed eradication strategies.
Distinct characteristics of OxyR2, a new OxyR‐type regulator, ensuring expression of Peroxiredoxin 2 detoxifying low levels of hydrogen peroxide in Vibrio vulnificus
Authors: Kim Suyeon , Bang Ye‐Ji , Kim Dukyun , Lim Jong Gyu , Oh Man Hwan , Choi Sang Ho 
Published: July 2014

SummaryTwo peroxiredoxins, Prx1 and Prx2, were previously identified in Vibrio vulnificus. Besides OxyR1, a homologue of Escherichia coli OxyR (EcOxyR), OxyR2 that shares low homology with EcOxyR was first identified in V. vulnificus. OxyR2 activated prx2 during aerobic growth, while OxyR1 activated prx1 only when exposed to exogenous H2O2. OxyR2 was oxidized to form a reversible C206 to C215 disulphide bond by sensing low levels of H2O2, which were insufficient to oxidize OxyR1, and only the oxidized OxyR2 activated prx2. OxyR25CA, in which all cysteine residues except for C206 and C215 were replaced with alanines, and its mutants, OxyR25CA‐C206S and OxyR25CA‐C215S, were constructed. OxyR25CA and OxyR25CA‐C215S directly bound to a specific binding sequence centred at −56.5 from the prx2 transcription start site, albeit with different binding affinities. The binding sequence consisted of four ATCGnt elements spaced by a helical turn and aligned in the twofold dyad symmetry, suggesting that OxyR2 binds DNA as a tetramer. OxyR25CA‐C206S also directly bound to DNA comprising more extended sequences, indicating that oxidized and reduced OxyR2 adopt different conformational states, leading to altered DNA contacts. The oxyR2 mutation reduced cytotoxicity and growth during infection, indicating that OxyR2 is essential for the pathogenesis of V. vulnificus.
Will smaller plates lead to smaller waists? A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the effect that experimental manipulation of dishware size has on energy consumption
Authors: Robinson E. , Nolan S. , Tudur‐Smith C. , Boyland E. J. , Harrold J. A. , Hardman C. A. , Halford J. C. G. 
Published: July 2014

SummaryIt has been suggested that providing consumers with smaller dishware may prove an effective way of helping people eat less and preventing weight gain, but experimental evidence supporting this has been mixed. The objective of the present work was to examine the current evidence base for whether experimentally manipulated differences in dishware size influence food consumption. We systematically reviewed studies that experimentally manipulated the dishware size participants served themselves at a meal with and measured subsequent food intake. We used inverse variance meta‐analysis, calculating the standardized mean difference (SMD) in food intake between smaller and larger dishware size conditions. Nine experiments from eight publications were eligible for inclusion. The majority of experiments found no significance difference in food intake when participants ate from smaller vs. larger dishware. With all available data included, analysis indicated a marginal effect of dishware size on food intake, with larger dishware size associated with greater intake. However, this effect was small and there was a large amount of heterogeneity across studies (SMD: −0.18, 95% confidence interval: −0.35, 0.00, I2 = 77%). Evidence to date does not show that dishware size has a consistent effect on food intake, so recommendations surrounding the use of smaller plates/dishware to improve public health may be premature.
Romiplostim treatment allows for platelet transfusion‐free liver transplantation in pediatric thrombocytopenic patient with primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Minowa Kei , Arai Katsuhiro , Kasahara Mureo , Sakamoto Seisuke , Shimizu Hirotaka , Nakano Natsuko , Ito Reiko , Obayashi Naho , Nakazawa Atsuko , Ishiguro Akira 
Published: July 2014

AbstractThrombocytopenia is a major risk factor for cirrhotic liver disease. Patients with thrombocytopenia may have esophageal or gastric varices secondary to portal hypertension, leading to variceal bleeding which exposes the liver to further damage. Here, we present a female pediatric patient with PSC and CD, whose progressive thrombocytopenia was successfully controlled by romiplostim, a TPO receptor agonist. The patient developed bloody diarrhea at four yr of age, and was subsequently diagnosed with PSC and CD when seven yr old. While CD was well‐controlled by immunomodulators, the patient's thrombocytopenia gradually progressed resulting in petechiae (platelet count of 11 × 109/L) when she was 10 yr and four months old. She responded poorly to immunoglobulin and corticosteroids. Weekly subcutaneous injection of romiplostim was therefore initiated, and platelet counts were maintained over at 50 × 109/L. She was able to undergo successful LDLT without platelet transfusion seven months after the initiation of romiplostim. Romiplostim was not required after LDLT with improved platelet counts. This case report suggests that romiplostim may be effective in the treatment of thrombocytopenic children with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension, and in eliminating the need for platelet transfusion during the peri‐transplant period.
Capital Inflows, Exchange Rate Flexibility and Credit Booms
Authors: Magud Nicolas E. , Reinhart Carmen M. , Vesperoni Esteban R. 
Published: July 2014

AbstractHistorically, capital flow bonanzas have often fueled sharp credit expansions in advanced and emerging market economies alike. Focusing primarily on emerging markets, this paper analyzes the impact of exchange rate flexibility on credit markets during periods of large capital inflows. It is shown that bank credit is larger and its composition tilts to foreign currency in economies with less flexible exchange rate regimes, and that these results are not explained entirely by the fact that the latter attract more capital inflows than economies with more flexible regimes. The findings thus suggest countries with less flexible exchange rate regimes may stand to benefit the most from regulatory policies that reduce banks' incentives to tap external markets and to lend/borrow in foreign currency; these policies include marginal reserve requirements on foreign lending, currency‐dependent liquidity requirements and higher capital requirement and/or dynamic provisioning on foreign exchange loans.
The Structure ofEurope: International Input–Output Analysis with Trade in Intermediate Inputs and Capital Flows
Authors: Benz Sebastian , Larch Mario , Zimmer Markus 
Published: July 2014

AbstractIn this paper we theoretically derive an internationalRybczynski matrix. Its elements indicate the aggregate output change in a country when endowment with one or more factors in the same or another country is increased. This allows us to characterize the production structure in 11 countries of theEuropeanUnion. Starting from a baseline case with free trade in final goods only, we analyze two types of interaction between countries: international trade of intermediate inputs and internationally mobile capital.
Do Capital Controls Enhance Monetary Independence?
Authors: You Yu , Kim Yoonbai , Ren Xiaomei 
Published: July 2014

AbstractInternational monetary policy trilemma—the tradeoff among exchange rate stability, monetary independence, and unrestricted capital mobility—is an important constraint for policy makers in an open economy. This paper investigates an aspect of the hypothesis that has received relatively less attention: whether a decrease in capital mobility through imposition of capital controls, while holding the degree of exchange rate stability constant, will enhance monetary independence. Using a panel dataset covering 88 countries for the 1995–2010 period and the generalized method of moments (GMM) estimation, we find that: (1) capital controls help improve a country's monetary independence; (2) the effectiveness of capital controls depends on the types of assets and the direction of flows that are imposed; and (3) the choice of exchange rate regime has an important impact on the effectiveness of capital controls on monetary independence.