bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of cell proliferation in black‐capped chickadees suggests a role for neurogenesis in spatial learning
Authors: Hall Zachary J. , Delaney Shauna , Sherry David F.
Published: April 2014

Following development, the avian brain continues to produce neurons throughout adulthood, which functionally integrate throughout the telencephalon, including the hippocampus. In food‐storing birds like the black‐capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus), new neurons incorporated into the hippocampus are hypothesized to play a role in spatial learning. Previous results on the relation between hippocampal neurogenesis and spatial learning, however, are correlational. In this study, we experimentally suppressed hippocampal neuronal recruitment and tested for subsequent effects on spatial learning in adult chickadees. After chickadees exhibited significant learning, we treated birds with daily injections of either saline or methylazoxymethanol (MAM), a toxin that suppresses cell proliferation in the brain and monitored subsequent spatial learning. MAM treatment significantly reduced cell proliferation around the lateral ventricles and neuronal recruitment in the hippocampus, measured using the cell birth marker bromodeoxyuridine. MAM‐treated birds performed significantly worse than controls on the spatial learning task 12 days following the initiation of MAM treatment, a time when new neurons would begin functionally integrating into the hippocampus. This difference in learning, however, was limited to a single trial. MAM treatment did not affect any measure of body condition, suggesting learning impairments were not a product of non‐specific adverse effects of MAM. This is the first evidence of a potential causal link between hippocampal neurogenesis and spatial learning in birds. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 74: 1002–1010, 2014
CTLA‐4 (CD152) enhances the Tc17 differentiation program
Authors: Pick Jonas , Arra Aditya , Lingel Holger , Hegel J. Kolja , Huber Magdalena , Nishanth Gopala , Jorch Gerhard , Fischer Klaus‐Dieter , Schlüter Dirk , Tedford Kerry , Brunner‐Weinzierl Monika C.
Published: April 2014

Although CD8+ T cells that produce IL‐17 (Tc17 cells) have been linked to host defense, Tc17 cells show reduced cytotoxic activity, which is the characteristic function of CD8+ T cells. Here, we show that CTLA‐4 enhances the frequency of IL‐17 in CD8+ T cells, indicating that CTLA‐4 (CD152) specifically promotes Tc17 differentiation. Simultaneous stimulation of CTLA‐4+/+ and CTLA‐4−/− T cells in cocultures and agonistic CTLA‐4 stimulation unambiguously revealed a cell‐intrinsic mechanism for IL‐17 control by CTLA‐4. The quality of CTLA‐4‐induced Tc17 cells was tested in vivo, utilizing infection with the facultative intracellular bacterium Listeria monocytogenes (LM). Unlike CTLA‐4+/+ Tc17 cells, CTLA‐4−/− were nearly as efficient as Tc1 CTLA‐4+/+ cells in LM clearance. Additionally, adoptively transferred CTLA‐4−/− Tc17 cells expressed granzyme B after rechallenge, and produced Tc1 cytokines such as IFN‐γ and TNF‐α, which strongly correlate with bacterial clearance. CTLA‐4+/+ Tc17 cells demonstrated a high‐quality Tc17 differentiation program ex vivo, which was also evident in isolated IL‐17‐secreting Tc17 cells, with CTLA‐4‐mediated enhanced upregulation of Tc17‐related molecules such as IL‐17A, RORγt, and IRF‐4. Our results show that CTLA‐4 promotes Tc17 differentiation that results in robust Tc17 responses. Its inactivation might therefore represent a central therapeutic target to enhance clearance of infection.
IFN‐γ‐producing NKT cells exacerbate sepsis by enhancing C5a generation via IL‐10‐mediated inhibition of CD55 expression on neutrophils
Authors: Kim Ji Hyung , Oh Sae Jin , Ahn Sehee , Chung Doo Hyun
Published: April 2014

A role for NKT cells has been implicated in sepsis, but the mechanism by which NKT cells contribute to sepsis remains unclear. Here, we examined WT and NKT‐cell‐deficient mice of C57BL/6 background during cecal ligation and puncture‐induced sepsis. The levels of C5a, IFN‐γ, and IL‐10 were higher in the serum and peritoneal fluid of WT mice than in those of CD1d−/− mice, while the mortality rate was lower in CD1d−/− mice than in WT mice. C5a blockade decreased mortality of WT mice during sepsis, whereas it did not alter that of CD1d−/− mice. As assessed by intracellular staining, NKT cells expressed IFN‐γ, while neutrophils expressed IL‐10. Upon coculture, IL‐10‐deficient NKT cells enhanced IL‐10 production by WT, but not IFN‐γR‐deficient, neutrophils. Meanwhile, CD1d−/− mice exhibited high CD55 expression on neutrophils during sepsis, whereas those cells from WT mice expressed minimal levels of CD55. Recombinant IL‐10 administration into CD1d−/− mice reduced CD55 expression on neutrophils. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of sorted WT, but not IFN‐γ‐deficient, NKT cells into CD1d−/− mice suppressed CD55 expression on neutrophils, but increased IL‐10 and C5a levels. Taken together, IFN‐γ‐producing NKT cells enhance C5a generation via IL‐10‐mediated inhibition of CD55 expression on neutrophils, thereby exacerbating sepsis.
Natural antioxidants as stabilizers of frying oils*
Authors: Aladedunye Felix Adekunle
Published: April 2014

Frying is a very complex process and the applied conditions often overwhelm most endogenous and added antioxidants. Synthetic antioxidants such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), and tert‐butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) are often added to processed oils to retard oxidative degradation during storage and frying; however, beside their poor performance under frying conditions, consumers' acceptance of synthetic antioxidants remains negative due to their perceived detrimental effect on human health. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the search for effective natural antioxidants for frying applications, notably, from phenolic components of common spices and herbs. The present study provides an overview of the literature on natural antioxidants, sources, and their performance under frying conditions.

Practical applications: Sources and performance of natural antioxidants during frying were reviewed. Despite abundance of data on the radical scavenging activity and antioxidant potency of some natural antioxidants under storage conditions, there is still a dearth of information on their activity during frying. This study revealed a number of under‐exploited sources of natural antioxidants that could be used to improve the stability of frying oils.
(+)‐Sparteine‐Mediated Substitution of o‐Benzyl‐N‐pivaloylaniline with Ketones
Authors: Ko Yi Kyung , Im Chan , Do Junghwan , Park Yong Sun
Published: April 2014

The (+)‐sparteine‐mediated lithiation–substitution of o‐benzyl‐N‐pivaloylaniline with various ketones was investigated. The obtained highly enantioenriched tertiary alcohols were used for the synthesis of alkenyl‐substituted products 12 and 13 as well as 3,3,4‐trisubstituted tetrahydroquinoline derivatives 22–24. The reaction with α,β‐unsaturated ketones afforded highly enantioenriched 1,4‐addition products 28–33 and provided a protocol for the asymmetric synthesis of highly substituted tetralin derivative 34.
When do victim group members feel a moral obligation to help suffering others?
Authors: Warner Ruth H. , Wohl Michael J. A. , Branscombe Nyla R.
Published: April 2014

In four experiments, we assessed when the salience of ingroup historical victimization will encourage a sense of moral obligation to reduce the suffering of others. Historically victimized groups (Jews and women; Experiments 1 and 3) who considered the lessons of the past for their ingroup felt heightened moral obligation to help other non‐adversary victimized groups. However, when the suffering outgroup was an adversary, Jews (Experiment 2) and women (Experiment 4) who focused on the lesson of historical victimization for their ingroup reported lower moral obligation to reduce others' suffering. The lesson focus effect on moral obligation was mediated by benefit finding as well as perceived similarity to the outgroup. Means to facilitate moral obligation, as well as limiting factors, among victimized group members are discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Traveling wave electroosmosis: The influence of electrode array geometry
Authors: Hrdlička Jiří , Patel Niketan S. , Šnita Dalimil
Published: April 2014

We used a mathematical model describing traveling‐wave electroosmotic micropumps to explain their rather poor ability to work against pressure loads. The mathematical model is based upon the Poisson–Nernst–Planck–Navier–Stokes approach, that is, a direct numerical simulation, which allows a detail study of the energy transformations and the charging dynamics of the electric double layers. Using Matlab and COMSOL Multiphysics, we performed a set of extensive parametric studies to determine the dependence of generated electroosmotic flow on the geometric arrangement of the pump. The results suggest that the performance of AC electroosmotic pumps should improve with miniaturization. The AC electroosmosis is likely to be suitable only at submicrometer scale, as the pump's ability to work against pressure load diminishes rapidly when increasing the channel diameter.
Distinct transcriptional signature and immunoprofile of CIC‐DUX4 fusion–positive round cell tumors compared to EWSR1‐rearranged ewing sarcomas: Further evidence toward distinct pathologic entities
Authors: Specht Katja , Sung Yun‐Shao , Zhang Lei , Richter Günther H. S. , Fletcher Christopher D. , Antonescu Cristina R.
Published: April 2014

Round cell sarcomas harboring CIC‐DUX4 fusions have recently been described as highly aggressive soft tissue tumors of children and young adults. Due to partial morphologic and immunohistochemical overlap with Ewing sarcoma (ES), CIC‐DUX4‐positive tumors have generally been classified as ES‐like and managed similarly; however, a systematic comparison at the molecular and immunohistochemical levels between these two groups has not yet been conducted. Based on an initial observation that CIC‐DUX4‐positive tumors show nuclear immunoreactivity for WT1 and ETS transcription factors, FLI1 and ERG, we performed a detailed immunohistochemical and molecular analysis including these markers, to further investigate the relationship between CIC‐DUX4 tumors and ES. The study group included 21 CIC‐DUX4‐positive sarcomas and 20 EWSR1‐rearranged ES. Immunohistochemically, CIC‐DUX4 sarcomas showed membranous CD99 positivity in 18 (86%) cases, but only 5 (24%) with a diffuse pattern, while WT1 and FLI1 were strongly positive in all cases. ERG was positive in 18% of cases. All ES expressed CD99 and FLI1, while ERG positivity was only seen in EWSR1‐ERG fusion positive ES. WT1 was negative in all ES. Expression profiling validated by q‐PCR revealed a distinct gene signature associated with CIC‐DUX4 fusion, with upregulation of ETS transcription factors (ETV4, ETV1, and ETV5) and WT1, among top overexpressed genes compared to ES, other sarcomas and normal tissue. In conclusion, the distinct gene signature and immunoprofile of CIC‐DUX4 sarcomas suggest a distinct pathogenesis from ES. The consistent WT1 expression may provide a useful clue in the diagnosis in the context of round cell sarcomas negative for EWSR1 rearrangement. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Historical climate observations in Canada: 18th and 19th century daily temperature from the St. Lawrence Valley, Quebec
Authors: Slonosky Victoria
Published: April 2014

Daily observations of weather and climate for the province of Québec, Canada, start in the 18th century and continue to the present day. Daily temperature observations from 12 observers ranging from 1742 to 1873 are described here. The frequency distributions of the temperature observations from each of the historical weather journals are examined for data quality and consistency. Adjustments for differing types of exposures, particularly north wall exposures, are developed. It is shown that examination of the daily data distribution can be used to infer information concerning the instruments used and likely exposure in the absence of metadata. Comparisons of the relative frequency distributions of historical and modern hourly observations are used to assess the reliability of the daily historical temperature data, and are able to detect problems with instrument exposure or sampling biases. Historical observations of temperature from the 18th and 19th centuries are shown to be comparable to modern temperature data. These daily observations will be used in further studies to analyse changes in climate and extreme conditions on a decadal to centennial time frame, and will form part of international data sets for the reconstruction and analysis of past climate events.
Detecting Genetic Interactions in Pathway‐Based Genome‐Wide Association Studies
Authors: Huang Anhui , Martin Eden R. , Vance Jeffery M. , Cai Xiaodong
Published: April 2014

Pathway‐based genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) can exploit collective effects of causal variants in a pathway to increase power of detection. However, current methods for pathway‐based GWAS do not consider epistatic effects of genetic variants, although interactions between genetic variants may play an important role in influencing complex traits. In this paper, we employed a Bayesian Lasso logistic regression model for pathway‐based GWAS to include all possible main effects and a large number of pairwise interactions of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a pathway, and then inferred the model with an efficient group empirical Bayesian Lasso (EBLasso) method. Using the inferred model, the statistical significance of a pathway was tested with the Wald statistics. Reliable effects in a significant pathway were selected using the stability selection technique. Extensive computer simulations demonstrated that our group EBlasso method significantly outperformed two competitive methods in most simulation setups and offered similar performance in other simulation setups. When applying to a GWAS dataset for Parkinson disease, EBLasso identified three significant pathways including the primary bile acid biosynthesis pathway, the neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, and the MAPK signaling pathway. All effects identified in the primary bile acid biosynthesis pathway and many of effects in the other two pathways were epistatic effects. The group EBLasso method provides a valuable tool for pathway‐based GWAS to identify main and epistatic effects of genetic variants.
Detection of Mendelian Consistent Genotyping Errors in Pedigrees
Authors: Cheung Charles Y.K. , Thompson Elizabeth A. , Wijsman Ellen M.
Published: April 2014

Detection of genotyping errors is a necessary step to minimize false results in genetic analysis. This is especially important when the rate of genotyping errors is high, as has been reported for high‐throughput sequence data. To detect genotyping errors in pedigrees, Mendelian inconsistent (MI) error checks exist, as do multi‐point methods that flag Mendelian consistent (MC) errors for sparse multi‐allelic markers. However, few methods exist for detecting MC genotyping errors, particularly for dense variants on large pedigrees. Here, we introduce an efficient method to detect MC errors even for very dense variants (e.g., SNPs and sequencing data) on pedigrees that may be large. Our method first samples inheritance vectors (IVs) using a moderately sparse but informative set of markers using a Markov chain Monte Carlo‐based sampler. Using sampled IVs, we considered two test statistics to detect MC genotyping errors: the percentage of IVs inconsistent with observed genotypes (A1) or the posterior probability of error configurations (A2). Using simulations, we show that this method, even with the simpler A1 statistic, is effective for detecting MC genotyping errors in dense variants, with sensitivity almost as high as the theoretical best sensitivity possible. We also evaluate the effectiveness of this method as a function of parameters, when including the observed pattern for genotype, density of framework markers, error rate, allele frequencies, and number of sampled inheritance vectors. Our approach provides a line of defense against false findings based on the use of dense variants in pedigrees.
Rapid expansion of glacial lakes caused by climate and glacier retreat in the Central Himalayas
Authors: Wang Weicai , Xiang Yang , Gao Yang , Lu Anxin , Yao Tandong
Published: April 2014

Glacial lake outburst floods are among the most serious natural hazards in the Himalayas. Such floods are of high scientific and political importance because they exert trans‐boundary impacts on bordering countries. The preparation of an updated inventory of glacial lakes and the analysis of their evolution are an important first step in assessment of hazards from glacial lake outbursts. Here, we report the spatiotemporal developments of the glacial lakes in the Poiqu River basin, a trans‐boundary basin in the Central Himalayas, from 1976 to 2010 based on multi‐temporal Landsat images. Studied glacial lakes are classified as glacier‐fed lakes and non‐glacier‐fed lakes according to their hydrologic connection to glacial watersheds. A total of 119 glacial lakes larger than 0.01 km2 with an overall surface area of 20.22 km2 (±10.8%) were mapped in 2010, with glacier‐fed lakes being predominant in both number (69, 58.0%) and area (16.22 km2, 80.2%). We found that lakes connected to glacial watersheds (glacier‐fed lakes) significantly expanded (122.1%) from 1976 to 2010, whereas lakes not connected to glacial watersheds (non‐glacier‐fed lakes) remained stable (+2.8%) during the same period. This contrast can be attributed to the impact of glaciers. Retreating glaciers not only supply meltwater to lakes but also leave space for them to expand. Compared with other regions of the Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH), the lake area per glacier area in the Poiqu River basin was the highest. This observation might be attributed to the different climate regimes and glacier status along the HKH. The results presented in this study confirm the significant role of glacier retreat on the evolution of glacial lakes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using new mass balance methods to estimate gross surface water and groundwater exchange with naturally occurring tracer 222Rn in data poor regions: a case study in northwest China
Authors: Su Xiaosi , Xu Wei , Yang Fengtian , Zhu Pucheng
Published: April 2014

Given that the concentration of 222Rn in groundwater is much higher than that in surface water and that its radioactive half‐life (3.83 d) is short, 222Rn is an effective tracer of groundwater–surface water interactions. In this study, a new mass balance method is presented, which can be used to estimate specific groundwater–surface water interactions within a river reach. Three possible situations of interaction between groundwater and surface water are considered, and equations based on the mass conservation of 222Rn are formulated for judging specific groundwater–surface water interaction processes and for calculating water flux. A case study was conducted for the Nalenggele River, Northwest China, to demonstrate the usefulness of this method. Samples of river water and groundwater containing 222Rn were collected from the study area to estimate the interactions between groundwater and surface water. The amount of water exchanged during these interactions was estimated and the results show that transformations between groundwater and surface water are frequent along the stream. The 222Rn mass balance method is highly sensitive for studying such interactions, even in areas for which conventional hydrologic data are sparse. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adherence to cancer prevention guidelines and risk of breast cancer
Authors: Catsburg Chelsea , Miller Anthony B. , Rohan Thomas E.
Published: April 2014

Healthy eating patterns and keeping physically active are potentially more important for chronic disease prevention than intake or exclusion of specific food items or nutrients. To this end, many health organizations routinely publish dietary and lifestyle recommendations aimed at preventing chronic disease. Using data from the Canadian National Breast Screening Study, we investigated the association between breast cancer risk and adherence to two sets of guidelines specific for cancer prevention, namely the American Cancer Society (ACS) Guidelines and the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research (WCRF/AICR) Recommendations. At baseline, 49,613 women completed dietary and lifestyle questionnaires and height and weight measurements were taken. During a mean follow‐up of 16.6 years, 2,503 incident cases of breast cancer were ascertained. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association of meeting each guideline, and number of guidelines met, with breast cancer risk. The two sets of guidelines yielded similar results. Specifically, adherence to all six ACS guidelines was associated with a 31% reduction in breast cancer risk when compared to subjects adhering to at most one guideline (HR = 0.69; 95% CI = 0.49–0.97); similarly, adherence to six or seven of the WCRF/AICR guidelines was also associated with a 31% reduction in breast cancer risk (HR = 0.69; 95% CI = 0.47–1.00). Under either classification, meeting each additional guideline was associated with a 4–6% reduction in breast cancer risk. These results suggest that adherence to cancer prevention guidelines is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer.
Somatodendritic ion channel expression in substantia nigra pars compacta dopaminergic neurons across postnatal development
Authors: Dufour Martial A. , Woodhouse Adele , Goaillard Jean‐Marc
Published: April 2014

Dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) are involved in the control of movement, sleep, reward, learning, and nervous system disorders and disease. To date, a thorough characterization of the ion channel phenotype of this important neuronal population is lacking. Using immunohistochemistry, we analyzed the somatodendritic expression of voltage‐gated ion channel subunits that are involved in pacemaking activity in SNc dopaminergic neurons in 6‐, 21‐, and 40‐day‐old rats. Our results demonstrate that the same complement of somatodendritic ion channels is present in SNc dopaminergic neurons from P6 to P40. The major developmental changes were an increase in the dendritic range of the immunolabeling for the HCN, T‐type calcium, Kv4.3, delayed rectifier, and SK channels. Our study sheds light on the ion channel subunits that contribute to the somatodendritic delayed rectifier (Kv1.3, Kv2.1, Kv3.2, Kv3.3), A‐type (Kv4.3) and calcium‐activated SK (SK1, SK2, SK3) potassium currents, IH (mainly HCN2, HCN4), and the L‐ (Cav1.2, Cav1.3) and T‐type (mainly Cav3.1, Cav3.3) calcium currents in SNc dopaminergic neurons. Finally, no robust differences in voltage‐gated ion channel immunolabeling were observed across the population of SNc dopaminergic neurons for each age examined, suggesting that differing levels of individual ion channels are unlikely to distinguish between specific subpopulations of SNc dopaminergic neurons. This is significant in light of previous studies suggesting that age‐ or region‐associated variations in the expression profile of voltage‐gated ion channels in SNc dopaminergic neurons may underlie their vulnerability to dysfunction and disease. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of four different cooking methods on anthocyanins, total phenolics and antioxidant activity of black rice
Authors: Surh Jeonghee , Koh Eunmi
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Two cultivars of black rice were investigated for the effects of different cooking methods on anthocyanins, total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities.

RESULTS

There was a significant loss of anthocyanins during cooking: roasting resulted in the greatest decrease (94%), followed by steaming (88%), pan‐frying (86%) and boiling (77%). Contents of phenolic compounds decreased drastically after cooking, with significantly lower retention in the black rice cultivar that had higher amylose content. DPPH radical‐scavenging activity of black rice decreased after cooking. In contrast, metal‐chelating activity increased significantly after cooking. Anthocyanins showed a high positive correlation with total phenolic compounds (r2 = 0.936) but a significant negative correlation with metal‐chelating activity (r2 = 0.6107).

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that cooking degraded anthocyanins and other phenolic compounds, but with a concomitant increase in phenolics from possible degradation of anthocyanins, which resulted in the enhancement of metal‐chelating activity. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Multivariate optimization of a headspace solid‐phase microextraction method followed by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry for the determination of terpenes in Nicotiana langsdorffii
Authors: Ardini Francisco , Carro Marina Di , Abelmoschi Maria Luisa , Grotti Marco , Magi Emanuele
Published: April 2014

A simple and sensitive procedure based on headspace solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography with mass spectrometry was developed for the determination of five terpenes (α‐pinene, limonene, linalool, α‐terpineol, and geraniol) in the leaves of Nicotiana langsdorffii. The microextraction conditions (extraction temperature, equilibration time, and extraction time) were optimized by means of a Doehlert design. The experimental design showed that, for α‐pinene and limonene, a low temperature and a long extraction time were needed for optimal extraction, while linalool, α‐terpineol, and geraniol required a high temperature and a long extraction time. The chosen compromise conditions were temperature 60°C, equilibration time 15 min and extraction time 50 min. The main analytical figures of the optimized method were evaluated; LODs ranged from 0.07 ng/g (α‐pinene) to 8.0 ng/g (geraniol), while intraday and interday repeatability were in the range 10–17% and 9–13%, respectively. Finally, the procedure was applied to in vitro wild‐type and transgenic specimens of N. langsdorffii subjected to abiotic stresses (chemical and heat stress). With the exception of geraniol (75–374 ng/g), low concentration levels of terpenes were measured (ng/g level or lower); some interesting variations in terpene concentration induced by abiotic stress were observed.
Latest Advances in High Brightness Disk Lasers
Authors: Schad Sven‐Silvius , Stolzenburg Christian , Michel Knut , Sutter Dirk
Published: April 2014

For years disk lasers have been an ideal choice for the vast majority of high power material processing applications in the CW as well as short and ultra short pulse regime since they combine high output power with high beam quality at low investment and running cost. Ease of operation combined with highest efficiency, precision and robustness have established the disk laser as a standard tool throughout industrial applications. Tailoring laser based manufacturing chains has opened up a manifold of different areas such as high speed cutting, remote welding, brazing, cladding and hybrid welding.
Etiology and mortality of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in liver transplant recipients: A cohort study
Authors: Pérez-Cameo Cristina , Vargas Víctor , Castells Lluís , Bilbao Itxarone , Campos-Varela Isabel , Gavaldà Joan , Pahissa Albert , Len Oscar
Published: April 2014

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in liver transplantation (LT) recipients who progress to cirrhosis has received little attention. We investigated the adequacy of empirical treatment with third-generation cephalosporins for SBP in this population and the impact of transplantation on the evolution of the infection. We performed a cohort study with 138 SBP episodes: 19 in LT patients and 119 in non-LT patients. The etiology of SBP was identified for 73.7% of the episodes in LT patients and for 38.7% of the episodes in non-LT patients (P = 0.004). The main microorganisms in recipients were Escherichia coli (35.7%) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (21.4%). The etiologies did not differ in non-LT patients. The cephalosporin sensitivity was similar in the 2 groups (85.7% versus 78.4%, P = 0.7). LT recipients developed renal failure (57.9% versus 25.2%, P = 0.004) and encephalopathy (42.1% versus 22%, P = 0.08) more often than non-LT patients, and the mortality rates during episodes (52.6% versus 13.4%, P < 0.001) and at 6 months (70.6% versus 34.7%, P = 0.005) were higher. According to a multivariate analysis, the mortality-associated risk factors at diagnosis were a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score > 18 odds ratio (OR) = 6.1 and being an LT recipient (OR = 4.45). At 6 months, the risk factors for mortality were a MELD score > 18 (OR = 3.08), being an LT recipient (OR = 3.47), a known etiology (OR = 2.08), and the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma (OR = 3.73). Liver Transpl 20:856–863, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Associations of drug burden index with falls, general practitioner visits, and mortality in older people
Authors: Nishtala Prasad S. , Narayan Sujita W. , Wang Ting , Hilmer Sarah N.
Published: April 2014

Aim

On a population level in people aged ≥65 years old living in New Zealand, the aim of this study is to quantify each individual's cumulative exposure to anticholinergic and sedative medicines using the Drug Burden Index (DBI) and examine the impact of DBI on fall‐related hospitalisations, general practitioner (GP) visits, and all‐cause mortality.

Method

The study used data extracted from Pharmaceutical Claims Data Mart (2011), National Minimum Data set (2012), Births, Death and Marriages (2012) and GP Visits (2012) for patient demographics, hospitalisations and mortality. Cumulative anticholinergic and sedative exposure was measured using the DBI. Polypharmacy was defined as greater than or equal to five medicines dispensed concurrently at any time during the study period.

Results

Amongst the study population (n = 537 387; 45% male), 43.22% were exposed to DBI drugs (95% confidence intervals (CIs) = 43.09–43.35). The odds of DBI exposure for individuals with polypharmacy are 4.92 (95%CI = 4.86–4.98) times greater than that for individuals without polypharmacy. DBI drugs were associated with fall‐related hospitalisations (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.56, 95%CI = 1.47–1.65) and greater number of GP visits (IRR 1.13, 95%CI = 1.12–1.13). Individuals with DBI > 0 had a 1.29 times higher mortality risk (95%CI = 1.25–1.33). Polypharmacy is also associated with a higher mortality risk with a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.66 (95%CI = 1.59–1.73).

Conclusion

Polypharmacy and exposure to DBI drugs were independently associated with fall‐related hospitalisations, frequency of GP visits, and risk of mortality. On a population level, DBI may be useful as a quality indicator to guide policy to improve prescribing and optimize clinical outcomes in older people. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic characterization of seeds from yellow lupin (Lupinus luteusL.)
Authors: Ogura Takahiro , Ogihara Jun , Sunairi Michio , Takeishi Hidetaka , Aizawa Tomoko , Olivos‐Trujillo Marcos R. , Maureira‐Butler Iván J. , Salvo‐Garrido Haroldo E.
Published: April 2014

Yellow lupin (Lupinus luteus L.) is a legume crop containing a large amount of protein in its seeds. In this study, we constructed a seed‐protein catalog to provide a foundation for further study of the seeds. A total of 736 proteins were identified in 341 2DE spots by nano‐LC‐MS/MS. Eight storage proteins were found as multiple spots in the 2DE gels. The 736 proteins correspond to 152 unique proteins as shown by UniRef50 clustering. Sixty‐seven of the 152 proteins were associated with KEGG‐defined pathways. Of the remaining proteins, 57 were classified according to a GO term. The functions of the remaining 28 proteins have yet to be determined. This is the first yellow lupin seed–protein catalog, and it contains considerably more data than previously reported for white lupin (L. albus L.).
Sizing up models of heart failure: Proteomics from flies to humans
Authors: Kooij Viola , Venkatraman Vidya , Tra John , Kirk Jonathan A. , Rowell Janelle , Blice‐Baum Anna , Cammarato Anthony , Van Eyk Jennifer E.
Published: April 2014

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the western world. Heart failure is a heterogeneous and complex syndrome, arising from various etiologies, which result in cellular phenotypes that vary from patient to patient. The ability to utilize genetic manipulation and biochemical experimentation in animal models has made them indispensable in the study of this chronic condition. Similarly, proteomics has been helpful for elucidating complicated cellular and molecular phenotypes and has the potential to identify circulating biomarkers and drug targets for therapeutic intervention. In this review, the use of human samples and animal model systems (pig, dog, rat, mouse, zebrafish, and fruit fly) in cardiac research is discussed. Additionally, the protein sequence homology between these species and the extent of conservation at the level of the phospho‐proteome in major kinase signaling cascades involved in heart failure are investigated.
Magnetism induced by iron impurities in the overdoped superconductor La2–xSrxCuO4
Authors: Arzhnikov A. K. , Dobysheva L. V.
Published: April 2014

We have performed first‐principles calculations of the magnetic properties of the overdoped (x=0.25) LSCO and Fe‐LSCO systems. Originally, without impurities of iron, La1.75Sr0.25CuO4 is nonmagnetic.

Replacing one of Cu atoms in a unit cell with an Fe atom (3 or 6% of Fe relatively to the Cu content) results in lowering the total energy of the magnetic state in comparison to the nonmagnetic one. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Glass forming ability of vitreous Ge‐Te‐In system
Authors: Petkov P. , Ivanova V. , Zaidan A. , Petkova T.
Published: April 2014

Chalcogenide glasses from (GeTe4)100−xInx and (GeTe5)100−xInx with x = 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 at % systems were investigated to define the glass forming ability. Parameters considered are number of constraints per atom, average coordination number and mean bond energy. The compositional dependence of these parameters is discussed in correlation with experimental obtained density, compactness and molar volume of the glasses. The stability of the glasses is confirmed through thermal properties study. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
XPS and AES sputter‐depth profiling at surfaces of biocompatible passivated Ti‐based alloys: concentration quantification considering chemical effects
Authors: Oswald Steffen , Gostin Petre‐Flaviu , Helth Arne , Abdi Somayeh , Giebeler Lars , Wendrock Horst , Calin Mariana , Eckert Jürgen , Gebert Annett
Published: April 2014

Ti‐based materials are frequently used worldwide for orthopedic implants. New β‐type or glassy alloys with nontoxic alloying elements are investigated with expected improved biofunctionality. The surface regions and surface layers formed at the materials are decisive for the integration of the implant in the body. Thus, the investigation of the surfaces with analytical methods such as XPS and AES is an essential task. We investigated such materials with different alloying elements after electrochemical passivation by both XPS and AES depth profiling. We discuss chemical changes due to the ion sputtering and motivate the use of non‐differentiated spectra for AES quantification. The behavior of the alloy elements in the investigated depth profiles is discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New method for the preparation of S doped Fe samples characterized by AES and TOF‐SIMS depth profiling
Authors: Barnard P. E. , Terblans J. J. , Swart H. C.
Published: April 2014

A new method for the preparation of sulfur (S) doped iron (Fe) samples is presented. The required amount of S in Fe is obtained by allowing the vaporized form of S to diffuse into a Fe sample (10 mm diameter, 0.5 mm thick) kept at a temperature of 750 K. Depth profile analysis using Auger Electron Spectroscopy and Time‐of‐Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) showed that the method is reproducible and can be used for the preparation of samples with different S concentrations. It was also found that S deposited onto Fe forms the desired FeS phase, which will prevent S from evaporating when the sample is annealed. Prepared samples were annealed to obtain homogeneity of S in Fe, after which the amount of S in the respective samples was determined by quantitative TOF‐SIMS. The outcome of the results suggests the application of this method to other high melting point host and low melting point dopant systems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glutaraldehyde fixation method for single‐cell lipid analysis by time‐of‐flight secondary ion‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Nagata Yasuyuki , Ishizaki Itsuko , Waki Michihiko , Ide Yoshimi , Hossen Md Amir , Ohnishi Kazunori , Sanada Noriaki , Setou Mitsutoshi
Published: April 2014

Lipid metabolism has attracted much attention in tumor biology studies. Recently, time‐of‐flight secondary ion‐mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) imaging has enabled in situ lipid analysis of biological specimens with a submicrometer spatial resolution for analyses of tumor cells. In clinical settings, sample preservation is important, and specimens are often obtained from patients at different times; these samples must be preserved prior to measurement, and preservation techniques commonly involve chemical fixation with aldehydes. However, the influence of sample preservation on TOF‐SIMS analysis of fatty acids has not been reported. Thus, we examined the influence of glutaraldehyde fixation on TOF‐SIMS analyses by using the multiple myeloma cell line U266. We prepared two indium‐tin‐oxide‐coated glass slides on which cells were attached. One slide was fixed with 0.25% glutaraldehyde and rinsed in ammonium acetate buffer, whereas the other was left untreated. The specimens were subjected to TOF‐SIMS analyses in negative‐ion mode, and signals in the mass range of m/z 0–1850 were monitored. Both fixed and unfixed cells exhibited intense ion peaks corresponding to phosphoric acids and five types of fatty acids, putatively derived from membrane phospholipids. These ions were localized at the cell attachment site. We statistically compared the mean intensity of fatty acids between fixed and unfixed cells and found that both showed equivalent signals. Glutaraldehyde fixation was thus shown to be an effective method for preparing samples for single‐cell lipid analysis by TOF‐SIMS. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Re‐estimating sample size in cluster randomised trials with active recruitment within clusters
Authors: van Schie S. , Moerbeek M.
Published: April 2014

Often only a limited number of clusters can be obtained in cluster randomised trials, although many potential participants can be recruited within each cluster. Thus, active recruitment is feasible within the clusters. To obtain an efficient sample size in a cluster randomised trial, the cluster level and individual level variance should be known before the study starts, but this is often not the case. We suggest using an internal pilot study design to address this problem of unknown variances. A pilot can be useful to re‐estimate the variances and re‐calculate the sample size during the trial. Using simulated data, it is shown that an initially low or high power can be adjusted using an internal pilot with the type I error rate remaining within an acceptable range. The intracluster correlation coefficient can be re‐estimated with more precision, which has a positive effect on the sample size. We conclude that an internal pilot study design may be used if active recruitment is feasible within a limited number of clusters. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“This was a Sexual Assault”: A Social Worlds Analysis of Paradigm Change in the Interpersonal Violence World
Authors: Malinen KelleyAnne
Published: April 2014

This article presents a portion of my research on woman‐to‐woman sexual assault. Research was based on interviews with survivors and service providers who have worked with them. Transcripts underwent a grounded theory method analysis. The article considers how sexual assault service provision is changing as rigidly gendered discourses on sexual violence are challenged. It draws on Becker's social worlds approach, introducing the “Interpersonal Violence World,” the “Violence Against Women Subworld,” and the “Anti‐Violence Project Subworld.” These subworlds are notably distinguishable by their discourses on how violence and gender interact. Woman‐to‐woman survivors' interactions with the Violence Against Women Subworld often prove problematic, an issue the Anti‐Violence Project Subworld addresses.
Redefining the design objectives of large offshore wind turbine rotors
Authors: Buck James A. , Garvey Seamus D.
Published: April 2014

Wind turbine rotors are normally designed such that rotor power coefficient is maximized. Much of this methodology has been inherited from the aviation industry. This paper points out that designing machines for maximum rotor aerodynamic efficiency does not necessarily lead to a lower levelized cost of energy. The argument sits on the premise that levelized cost of energy is strongly influenced by machine capital expenditure (CAPEX) and annual energy production (AEP). We therefore assume that the true design objective is to minimize the CAPEX/AEP ratio. The basis of an alternative design path is presented, which centres on the minimization of total volume of structural material in the wind turbine. This is done whilst maintaining a given rated power. This alternative methodology requires the removal of conventional pre‐set design variables and assumptions which relate to the maximization of rotor power coefficient. We examine how changing chord length, axial induction factor and aerofoil lift coefficient affect material volume in the blade. Following this, we use a custom‐made blade element momentum programme to explore the relative CAPEX of machines with varying design axial induction factor and varying lift coefficient. This relative cost is calibrated to the 5 MW National Renewable Energy Laboratory offshore reference turbine. The effects on the rotor, drivetrain and tower are considered. For a 5 MW offshore machine, it is shown that an overall CAPEX/AEP reduction of over 2% can be achieved by using a low‐induction rotor with blades possessing aerofoils operating at non‐peak lift to drag ratios. This economy is delivered notwithstanding a 2.3% drop in design rotor power coefficient. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Disclosure of Surgeon Experience
Authors: Ganai Sabha
Published: April 2014

It is uncertain whether there is an ethical obligation to disclose surgical experience. This article explores the impact of principles including respect for patient autonomy, nonmaleficence, and justice, as well as professional duties including truth‐telling on the decision‐making relevant to the process of informed consent, taking into account surgeon experience, training, and the expected risk and uncertainty surrounding the disease process and operation. Issues such as the integrity of the doctor–patient relationship, difficulties with access to complex surgical services, and limitations in applying statistics to the future outcomes of individual surgeons are explored.
The Extent of Surgical Patients’ Understanding
Authors: Pugliese Omar Talhouk , Solari Juan Lombardi , Ferreres Alberto R.
Published: April 2014

The notion that consent to surgery must be informed implies not only that information should be provided by the surgeon but also that the information should be understood by the patient in order to give a foundation to his or her decision to accept or refuse treatment and thus, achieve autonomy for the patient. Nonetheless, this seems to be an idyllic situation, since most patients do not fully understand the facts offered and thus the process of surgical informed consent, as well as the patient’s autonomy, may be jeopardized. Informed consent does not always mean rational consent.
The association of physiological cortisol and IVF treatment outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Massey Adam J. , Campbell Bruce , Raine‐Fenning Nick , Aujla Navneet , Vedhara Kavita
Published: April 2014

Purpose

A systematic review was conducted to (1) collate and synthesise the available evidence for the role of cortisol in relation to IVF treatment outcomes; (2) to establish the strength of an association between cortisol and IVF; and (3) to assess the overall quality of the studies and guide future research in this area.

Methods

Seven electronic databases, including the reference lists of published papers, were searched. Inclusion criteria qualified any prospective/observational cohort study that reported original data. Quality assessment of eligible studies was conducted using the STROBE statement, which was used to assess the risk of bias and the quality of observational studies included in this review.

Result(s)

A total of eight studies reported a significant association between cortisol and IVF outcomes. Three studies found that higher cortisol may be associated with more favourable IVF outcomes, whereas five studies found that lower cortisol levels may be conducive to IVF success. Eleven of all studies included in this review were regarded as low quality publications.

Conclusion(s)

Study findings were that the evidence for the role of cortisol in relation to IVF outcomes is currently mixed. Future researchers are encouraged to consider the methodological limitations highlighted in this review and to utilise more robust assessment methods when examining the influence that chronic, rather than acute, stress may have on IVF outcomes.
Validation of the Griffith Empathy Measure in the Chinese Context
Authors: Zhang Qi , Wang Yi , Lui Simon S.Y. , Cheung Eric F.C. , Neumann David L. , Shum David H.K. , Chan Raymond C.K.
Published: April 2014

Objectives: The Griffith Empathy Measure (GEM) is a self-report measure of empathy. The current study aimed to explore the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the GEM. It also aimed to compare individuals with and without schizotypal personality disorder (SPD) features on various components of empathy.

Methods: 420 college students from Beijing and 526 college students from Guangzhou completed a set of questionnaires that measured empathy and schizotypal personality disorder traits. Cronbach's coefficient alpha was used to evaluate the internal consistency of the GEM. Construct validity was evaluated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA). Construct validity was also examined by looking at the relationship between the GEM and the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI). Finally, the sensitivity of the GEM was evaluated by comparing the total and factor GEM scores between individuals with and without SPD traits.

Results: The Chinese GEM showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.83). Results of an exploratory factor analysis suggested a three-factor model consisting of cognitive, affective and behavioural empathy components. Results of a confirmatory factor analysis showed that the three-factor model, as well as the two-factor model found in the English version, were both acceptable. Construct validity (specifically convergent validity) was also corroborated by significant correlations between the IRI subscales and GEM (personal distress: r = .09, p > .05; perspective taking: r = .34, p < .01; fantasy: r = .44, p < .01; empathic concern: r = .51, p < .01). Individuals with SPD traits showed lower scores on the GEM than individuals without SPD traits (t(1,250) = −1.99, p = .05), thus confirming discriminative validity.

Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that the Chinese version of the GEM demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency and construct validity. In addition, the findings suggest that the GEM is culturally appropriate and researchers can use it to study empathy in healthy and clinical Chinese participants.