bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The beneficial effect of growth hormone treatment on islet mass in streptozotocin‐treated mice
Authors: Scheinman Eyal J. , Damouni Rawan , Caspi Avishay , Shen‐Orr Zila , Tiosano Dov , LeRoith Derek
Published: December 2014

Background

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, characterized by a loss of pancreatic β‐cell mass and function, which results in dramatic reductions in insulin secretion and circulating insulin levels. Patients with type 1 diabetes are traditionally treated with insulin injections and insulin pumps ex vivo or undergo transplantation. Growth hormone (GH) has been shown to be involved in β‐cell function and survival in culture.

Methods

Twelve‐week‐old female C57BL/6 mice were treated with streptozotocin and monitored for their weight and blood glucose levels. Fourteen days post‐initial injection, these mice were separated into two groups at random. One group was treated with GH while the other treated with vehicle for up to 3 weeks. These mice were compared with mice not treated with streptozotocin.

Results

Under our experimental conditions, we observed that mice treated with GH had larger islets and higher serum insulin levels than streptozotocin‐treated mice treated with saline (0.288 vs. 0.073 ng/mL, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that GH may rescue islets and therefore may possess therapeutic potential in the treatment of type 1 diabetes, although consideration should be made regarding GH's effect on insulin resistance. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modulation of p53 and met expression by Krüppel‐like factor 8 regulates zebrafish cerebellar development
Authors: Tsai Ming‐Yuan , Lu Yu‐Fen , Liu Yu‐Hsiu , Lien Huang‐Wei , Huang Chang‐Jen , Wu Jen‐Leih , Hwang Sheng‐Ping L.
Published: December 2014

Krüppel‐like factor 8 (Klf8) is a zinc‐finger transcription factor implicated in cell proliferation, and cancer cell survival and invasion; however, little is known about its role in normal embryonic development. Here, we show that Klf8 is required for normal cerebellar development in zebrafish embryos. Morpholino knockdown of klf8 resulted in abnormal cerebellar primordium morphology and the induction of p53 in the brain region at 24 hours post‐fertilization (hpf). Both p53‐dependent reduction of cell proliferation and augmentation of apoptosis were observed in the cerebellar anlage of 24 hpf‐klf8 morphants. In klf8 morphants, expression of ptf1a in the ventricular zone was decreased from 48 to 72 hpf; on the other hand, expression of atohla in the upper rhombic lip was unaffected. Consistent with this finding, Purkinje cell development was perturbed and granule cell number was reduced in 72 hpf‐klf8 morphants; co‐injection of p53 MOsp or klf8 mRNA substantially rescued development of cerebellar Purkinje cells in klf8 morphants. Hepatocyte growth factor/Met signaling is known to regulate cerebellar development in zebrafish and mouse. We observed decreased met expression in the tectum and rhombomere 1 of 24 hpf‐klf8 morphants, which was largely rescued by co‐injection with klf8 mRNA. Moreover, co‐injection of met mRNA substantially rescued formation of Purkinje cells in klf8 morphants at 72 hpf. Together, these results demonstrate that Klf8 modulates expression of p53 and met to maintain ptf1a‐expressing neuronal progenitors, which are required for the appropriate development of cerebellar Purkinje and granule cells in zebrafish embryos. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 75: 908–926, 2015
Loss of SPARC dysregulates basal lamina assembly to disrupt larval fat body homeostasis in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Shahab Jaffer , Baratta Cristina , Scuric Bianca , Godt Dorothea , Venken Koen J.T. , Ringuette Maurice J.
Published: December 2014

Background: SPARC is a collagen‐binding glycoprotein whose functions during early development are unknown. We previously reported that SPARC is expressed in Drosophila by hemocytes and the fat body (FB) and enriched in basal laminae (BL) surrounding tissues, including adipocytes. We sought to explore if SPARC is required for proper BL assembly in the FB. Results: SPARC deficiency leads to larval lethality, associated with remodeling of the FB. In the absence of SPARC, FB polygonal adipocytes assume a spherical morphology. Loss‐of‐function clonal analyses revealed a cell‐autonomous accumulation of BL components around mutant cells that include collagen IV (Col lV), Laminin, and Perlecan. Ultrastructural analyses indicate SPARC‐deficient adipocytes are surrounded by an aberrant accumulation of a fibrous extracellular matrix. Conclusions: Our data indicate a critical requirement for SPARC for the proper BL assembly in Drosophila FB. Since Col IV within the BL is a prime determinant of cell shape, the rounded appearance of SPARC‐deficient adipocytes is due to aberrant assembly of Col IV. Developmental Dynamics 244:540–552, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The C. elegans NR4A nuclear receptor gene nhr‐6 promotes cell cycle progression in the spermatheca lineage
Authors: Praslicka Brandon , Gissendanner Chris R.
Published: December 2014

Background: NR4A nuclear receptors are a conserved, functionally diverse group of nuclear receptors that regulate multiple cellular processes including proliferation and differentiation. The gene nhr‐6 encodes the sole Caenorhabditis elegans NR4A nuclear receptor homolog with an essential role in reproduction by regulating morphogenesis of the spermatheca, a somatic gonad organ involved in ovulation and fertilization. Results: Here, we identify the spermatheca cell lineage defects that occur in nhr‐6 mutants. Utilizing cell marker analysis, we find that nhr‐6 is required for cell cycle progression and that the cell proliferation phenotype is not due to premature cell cycle exit. We also show that loss of the negative cell cycle regulators fzr‐1 and lin‐35 suppresses the cell proliferation defects. We further demonstrate that NHR‐6 activity intersects with Eph receptor signaling during spermatheca cell proliferation. Conclusions: NHR‐6 has an essential function in promoting cell cycle progression during G1 phase in a specific spermatheca cell lineage. Genetic suppression of the proliferation phenotype does not affect the differentiation phenotypes observed in nhr‐6 mutants, indicating a dualistic role for nhr‐6 in regulating cell proliferation and cell differentiation during spermatheca organogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 244:417–430, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rapid Automatized Naming in Children with Dyslexia: Is Inhibitory Control Involved?
Authors: Bexkens Anika , van den Wildenberg Wery P. M. , Tijms Jurgen
Published: December 2014

Rapid automatized naming (RAN) is widely seen as an important indicator of dyslexia. The nature of the cognitive processes involved in rapid naming is however still a topic of controversy. We hypothesized that in addition to the involvement of phonological processes and processing speed, RAN is a function of inhibition processes, in particular of interference control. A total 86 children with dyslexia and 31 normal readers were recruited. Our results revealed that in addition to phonological processing and processing speed, interference control predicts rapid naming in dyslexia, but in contrast to these other two cognitive processes, inhibition is not significantly associated with their reading and spelling skills. After variance in reading and spelling associated with processing speed, interference control and phonological processing was partialled out, naming speed was no longer consistently associated with the reading and spelling skills of children with dyslexia. Finally, dyslexic children differed from normal readers on naming speed, literacy skills, phonological processing and processing speed, but not on inhibition processes. Both theoretical and clinical interpretations of these results are discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Verification of computational optimum tilt angles of a photovoltaic module using an experimental photovoltaic system
Authors: Pourgharibshahi Hamed , Abdolzadeh Morteza , Fadaeinedjad Roohollah
Published: December 2014

Determination of the optimum tilt angles of a photovoltaic module is of great importance because the power of photovoltaic module is highly dependent on the incident solar radiation. The purpose of this research was to verify the computational optimum tilt angles of a PV module by conducting an experimental research in Kerman‐Iran. For achieving this, first, the optimum tilt angles were found using a computational model which predicts the module output energy at different tilt angles. Second, monthly, seasonal, biannual, and annual optimum tilt angles of a photovoltaic module were measured. The experimental optimum tilt angles were obtained based on 1 year measured data of the output energies of photovoltaic modules. The experiments were carried out by measuring the output electrical power of six photovoltaic modules which were inclined toward the south at different tilt angles throughout the year. The experimental optimum tilt angles were then determined based on the maximum output energy of the PV modules. Finally, the computational optimum tilt angle and the experimental optimum tilt angle were compared with each other. The results showed differences between the calculated and the measured optimum tilt angles of a PV module in the region under investigation. It was revealed that the measured annual optimum tilt angle is higher than the calculated annual optimum tilt angle. This difference was due to lack of the environmental parameter influences such as dust deposition on the PV front surface in the computational model. This study clearly showed that fixing the photovoltaic module based on the calculated annual optimum tilt angles decreases 3% the electrical output energy of photovoltaic module throughout the year compared with that fixed at the experimental optimum tilt angle. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1156–1165, 2015
Late Quaternary megafaunal extinctions on the continents: a short review
Authors: Stuart Anthony John
Published: December 2014

This paper provides an overview of the contentious issue of global megafaunal extinctions in the Late Quaternary. The main proposed causes are ‘overkill’, environmental change or a combination of both. There are major objections to the other suggested causes. Extinctions were highly variable in their severity between different zoogeographical regions, with the greatest impact in North America, South America and Australia, but also substantial in northern Eurasia. Sub‐Saharan Africa and Southern Asia were much less affected. For northern Eurasia, detailed chronologies show a staggered extinction pattern, in which each megafaunal species exhibits unique and complex distributional shifts, culminating in extinction for some species and survival in others. Environmental drivers were clearly very important, although the possible role of humans is not yet clear. Alaska/Yukon also has a good radiocarbon record which also suggests a staggered extinction pattern. However, the available data for the rest of North America are largely unsatisfactory. South America also boasted spectacular extinct megafauna, but again the currently available dates are insufficient to reliably discern patterns or possible causes. Australia and New Guinea also suffered major losses, but extinctions probably occurred much earlier than elsewhere, so that establishing a chronology is especially difficult. Africa and Southern Asia have the least available data. In order to make meaningful progress, it is vital to establish a large database of reliable radiocarbon dates for each region made directly on securely identified megafaunal remains. The need is for much more high quality data, not more debate based on imperfect evidence. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Weathering processes affecting granitoid profiles of Capo Vaticano (Calabria, southern Italy) based on petrographic, mineralogic and reaction path modelling approaches
Authors: Perri Francesco , Ietto Fabio , Le Pera Emilia , Apollaro Carmine
Published: December 2014

This work focuses on developing multidisciplinary research on weathering profiles of granitoid rocks related to the tectonic and landscape evolution of the Capo Vaticano area, Calabria, southern Italy. During the Pleistocene, the Mediterranean climate plays, on the already decomposed plutonic rocks, important processes of alteration, on both the highest and inland areas and the coastal areas of the Calabrian region, such as the studied area. Field observations coupled to chemical, minero‐petrographical features and geochemical modelling are used to characterize the weathering processes affecting the granitoid complex. The granitoid cut slopes show a generally simple weathering profile characterized by a progressive increase in weathering towards the top of the slopes. The completely weathered rocks (class V) and residual soil (class VI) contain a high percentage of altered minerals, microfractures, and voids. The main mineralogical changes are the partial transformation of biotite and the partial destruction of feldspars (mainly plagioclase) that are associated with the neoformation of secondary clay minerals and ferruginous products during the most advanced stage of weathering. These transformations produce a substitution of the original rock fabric. Geochemical modelling showing the precipitation of kaolinite, illite, vermiculite, ferrihydrite and calcite. These secondary solid phases are similar to those found in this natural system. Thus, the final results of the weathering process is a soil‐like material mainly characterized by mostly a sand to gravel grain‐size fractions related to microfabric changes and mineralogical and chemical variations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neural correlates of visual motion processing without awareness in patients with striate cortex and pulvinar lesions
Authors: Barleben Maria , Stoppel Christian M. , Kaufmann Jörn , Merkel Christian , Wecke Thoralf , Goertler Michael , Heinze Hans‐Jochen , Hopf Jens‐Max , Schoenfeld Mircea A.
Published: December 2014

Patients with striate cortex lesions experience visual perception loss in the contralateral visual field. In few patients, however, stimuli within the blind field can lead to unconscious (blindsight) or even conscious perception when the stimuli are moving (Riddoch syndrome). Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we investigated the neural responses elicited by motion stimulation in the sighted and blind visual fields of eight patients with lesions of the striate cortex. Importantly, repeated testing ensured that none of the patients exhibited blindsight or a Riddoch syndrome. Three patients had additional lesions in the ipsilesional pulvinar. For blind visual field stimulation, great care was given that the moving stimulus was precisely presented within the borders of the scotoma. In six of eight patients, the stimulation within the scotoma elicited hemodynamic activity in area human middle temporal (hMT) while no activity was observed within the ipsilateral lesioned area of the striate cortex. One of the two patients in whom no ipsilesional activity was observed had an extensive lesion including massive subcortical damage. The other patient had an additional focal lesion within the lateral inferior pulvinar. Fiber‐tracking based on anatomical and functional markers (hMT and Pulvinar) on individual diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data from each patient revealed the structural integrity of subcortical pathways in all but the patient with the extensive subcortical lesion. These results provide clear evidence for the robustness of direct subcortical pathways from the pulvinar to area hMT in patients with striate cortex lesions and demonstrate that ipsilesional activity in area hMT is completely independent of conscious perception. Hum Brain Mapp 36:1585–1594, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human neural stem cells improve cognition and promote synaptic growth in two complementary transgenic models of Alzheimer's disease and neuronal loss
Authors: Ager Rahasson R. , Davis Joy L. , Agazaryan Andy , Benavente Francisca , Poon Wayne W. , LaFerla Frank M. , Blurton‐Jones Mathew
Published: December 2014

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent age‐related neurodegenerative disorder, affecting over 35 million people worldwide. Pathologically, AD is characterized by the progressive accumulation of β‐amyloid (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles within the brain. Together, these pathologies lead to marked neuronal and synaptic loss and corresponding impairments in cognition. Current treatments, and recent clinical trials, have failed to modify the clinical course of AD; thus, the development of novel and innovative therapies is urgently needed. Over the last decade, the potential use of stem cells to treat cognitive impairment has received growing attention. Specifically, neural stem cell transplantation as a treatment for AD offers a novel approach with tremendous therapeutic potential. We previously reported that intrahippocampal transplantation of murine neural stem cells (mNSCs) can enhance synaptogenesis and improve cognition in 3xTg‐AD mice and the CaM/Tet‐DTA model of hippocampal neuronal loss. These promising findings prompted us to examine a human neural stem cell population, HuCNS‐SC, which has already been clinically tested for other neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we provide the first evidence that transplantation of research grade HuCNS‐SCs can improve cognition in two complementary models of neurodegeneration. We also demonstrate that HuCNS‐SC cells can migrate and differentiate into immature neurons and glia and significantly increase synaptic and growth‐associated markers in both 3xTg‐AD and CaM/Tet‐DTA mice. Interestingly, improvements in aged 3xTg‐AD mice were not associated with altered Aβ or tau pathology. Rather, our findings suggest that human NSC transplantation improves cognition by enhancing endogenous synaptogenesis. Taken together, our data provide the first preclinical evidence that human NSC transplantation could be a safe and effective therapeutic approach for treating AD. © 2014 The Authors. Hippocampus Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Night shift work, chronotype and prostate cancer risk in the MCC‐Spain case‐control study
Authors: Papantoniou Kyriaki , Castaño‐Vinyals Gemma , Espinosa Ana , Aragonés Nuria , Pérez‐Gómez Beatriz , Burgos Javier , Gómez‐Acebo Inés , Llorca Javier , Peiró Rosana , Jimenez‐Moleón Jose Juan , Arredondo Francisco , Tardón Adonina , Pollan Marina , Kogevinas Manolis
Published: December 2014

Night shift work has been classified as a probable human carcinogen based on experimental studies and limited human evidence on breast cancer. Evidence on other common cancers, such as prostate cancer, is scarce. Chronotype is an individual characteristic that may relate to night work adaptation. We evaluated night shift work with relation to prostate cancer, taking into account chronotype and disease severity in a population based case‐control study in Spain. We included 1,095 prostate cancer cases and 1,388 randomly selected population controls. We collected detailed information on shift schedules (permanent vs. rotating, time schedules, duration, frequency), using lifetime occupational history. Sociodemographic and lifestyle factors were assessed by face‐to‐face interviews and chronotype through a validated questionnaire. We used unconditional logistic regression analysis adjusting for potential confounders. Subjects who had worked at least for one year in night shift work had a slightly higher prostate cancer risk [Odds Ratio (OR) 1.14; 95%CI 0.94, 1.37] compared with never night workers; this risk increased with longer duration of exposure (≥28 years: OR 1.37; 95%CI 1.05, 1.81; p‐trend = 0.047). Risks were more pronounced for high risk tumors [D'Amico classification, Relative Risk Ratio (RRR) 1.40; 95%CI 1.05, 1.86], particularly among subjects with longer duration of exposure (≥28 years: RRR 1.63; 95%CI 1.08, 2.45; p‐trend = 0.027). Overall risk was higher among subjects with an evening chronotype, but also increased in morning chronotypes after long‐term night work. In this large population based study, we found an association between night shift work and prostate cancer particularly for tumors with worse prognosis.
Intraoral reconstruction with “thinned” peroneal artery perforator flaps: An alternative to classic donor areas in comorbid patients
Authors: Acartürk Tahsin Oğuz , Maldonado Andrés A. , Ereso Alex
Published: December 2014

Free fasciocutaneous flaps like the radial forearm free flap (RFFF) and the anterolateral thigh (ALT) are the most commonly used flaps in intraoral reconstruction. However, certain conditions preclude the use of either of these flaps. The aim of this report was to show applicability of “thinned” peroneal artery perforator (PAP) flaps in intraoral reconstruction. We report two cases of squamous cell carcinoma involving the tongue and floor of the mouth, where one patient had advanced scleroderma with tight forearm skin and the other with a history of Reynaud's disease precluding the use of RFFF. In addition, both patients were morbidly obese with thick adipose tissue in the thigh making ALT flap not a suitable option. Instead, a PAP flap was chosen. After the harvest, the subcutaneous tissue thickness was measured to be 2.2 and 1.8 cm, respectively. The thinning was performed by removing the deep fat lobules of the superficial fat layer down to a final thickness of 0.4 and 0.3 cm, respectively. A 2 × 2 cm area surrounding the perforators were kept untouched. Both patients had uneventful postoperative course with one patient having a small donor area dehiscence that healed with local wound care. The functional outcomes at 1 year were good. “Thinned” PAP flap is a unique and novel application that may be an alternative in intraoral reconstruction when primary choices are not available. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:399–402, 2015.
Determination of the type and quantity of sialic acid in the egg jelly coat of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus using capillary LC‐ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Yeşilyurt Batuhan , Şahar Umut , Deveci Remziye
Published: December 2014

Sialic acid is a terminal sugar of carbohydrate chains that participates in numerous biological events. Recent studies have explored the mechanism of carbohydrate‐mediated fertilisation to understand the biochemistry of fertilisation, although the type and quantity of sialic acid and the role of sialic acid during fertilisation remain unknown. Echinoderm fertilisation in particular has been studied extensively, yet our understanding of the mechanisms of carbohydrate‐mediated fertilisation and the role of sialic acid remains incomplete. In this study, we characterised the sialic acid types in the egg jelly coat of the sea urchin, Paracentrotus lividus, using the sensitive analytical system capillary liquid chromatography electro‐spray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry (capLC‐ESI‐MS/MS). First, we isolated the egg jelly coat and released its sialic acid using acid treatment. These sialic acids were derivatised with 1,2‐diamino‐4,5‐methylenediaoxy‐benzene dihydrochloride (DMB) and injected into the capLC‐ESI‐MS/MS system. When compared with standards, we identified twelve different types of sialic acid according to their retention times and collision‐induced dissociation fragments. The mass spectral data revealed that Neu5Gc, Neu5Ac, Neu5GcS, and Neu5Gc9Ac were the predominant types of sialic acid in the sea urchin jelly coat, with Neu5Gc being the most abundant. Other types of sialic acid detected included Neu5AcS, Neu5Gc7,9Ac2, Neu5,9Ac2, Neu5Gc8Ac, Neu5Gc7Ac, Neu5,7Ac2, Neu5Gc8,9Ac2, and Neu5,8Ac2. The types and quantities of sialic acid that we detected in the egg jelly coat will aid in the discovery of new sialic acid‐specific receptors on the sperm membrane. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 115–122, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quasilinear poroelasticity: Analysis and hybrid finite element approximation
Authors: Cao Yanzhao , Chen Song , Meir A. J.
Published: December 2014

We consider a system of partial differential equations which models flows through elastic porous media. This system consists of an elasticity equation describing the displacement of an elastic porous matrix and a quasilinear elliptic equation describing the pressure of the saturating fluid (flowing through its pores). In this model, the permeability depends nonlinearly on the dilatation (divergence of the displacement) of the medium. We show that the solution has regularity. We describe the numerical approximation of solutions using a hybrid finite element‐least squares mixed finite element method. Error estimates are obtained through the introduction of an auxiliary linear elasticity equation. Numerical experiments verify the error estimates and validate the proposed poroelasticity model. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 31: 1174–1189, 2015
Approximation estimates for isogeometric spaces in multipatch geometries
Authors: Buffa Annalisa , Vázquez Rafael Hernandez , Sangalli Giancarlo , Beirão da Veiga Lourenço
Published: December 2014

In this article, we extend this approximation theory developed in (Bazilevs et al., Math Models Methods Appl Sci 16 (2006), 1031–1090) and (Beirão da Veiga et al., Comput Methods Appl Mech Eng 209–212 (2012), 1–11) to the case when the computational domain is a collection of nonuniform rational B‐splines patches. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 31: 422–438, 2015
Cross‐sectional mapping of hole concentrations as a function of copper treatment in CdTe photo‐voltaic devices
Authors: Korevaar Bas A. , Zorn Gilad , Raghavan Kamala C. , Cournoyer James R. , Dovidenko Katharine
Published: December 2014

The carrier density and carrier density distribution within CdTe solar cells were studied with scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM). The CdTe solar cells were studied after every process step and as a function of varying copper treatment conditions. It was found that the CdTe film is practically undoped after deposition and after CdCl2 treatment, while after the copper step the carrier density distribution is non‐uniform with a mixture of p‐type and intrinsic grains in the CdTe film. These SCM observations were also confirmed with device performance data as well as capacitance–voltage measurements and Van der Pauw Hall measurements. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
XMVB 2.0: A new version of Xiamen valence bond program
Authors: Chen Zhenhua , Ying Fuming , Chen Xun , Song Jinshuai , Su Peifeng , Song Lingchun , Mo Yirong , Zhang Qianer , Wu Wei
Published: December 2014

Xiamen valence bond (XMVB), which is an ab initio nonorthogonal valence bond program, has been progressively developed and refined during the last 25 years. As the release of XMVB 1.0 in 2004, a number of significant enhancements and improvements have been made to the program. As a consequence, a new version, XMVB 2.0, has been released and will be described in this article. In XMVB 2.0, the nonorthogonal orbital‐based reduced density matrix approach for the valence bond (VB) theory is implemented, based on the second quantization scheme for nonorthogonal orbitals. The present article also describes the recently developed algorithms for orbital optimization in the VB self‐consist field (VBSCF) method, in which the internal contraction of wave function is used for computing energy gradients. Moreover, several newly implemented ab initio VB methods, such as VBSCF(CAS), internally contracted VB second‐order perturbation theory (icVBPT2), VB polarizable continuum model, VB effective fragment potential (VBECP), and density‐functional‐based VB, are briefly reviewed in this article. Finally, test calculations of several planar arenes, in which up to 18 active electrons are involved, are performed with XMVB 2.0. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rapid screening of residual pesticides on fruits and vegetables using thermal desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Shiea Christopher , Huang Yeou‐Lih , Liu De‐Lin , Chou Chih‐Chang , Chou Jo‐Han , Chen Peng‐Yu , Shiea Jentaie , Huang Min‐Zong
Published: December 2014

RATIONALE

Conventional mass spectrometry is encumbered by laborious and inconvenient sample pretreatment. Ambient thermal desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (TD‐ESI‐MS) is most noted for its rapid, simple, and sensitive detection capabilities. In this study, TD‐ESI‐MS was used to rapidly characterize residual pesticides on the surfaces of fruits and vegetables.

METHODS

A direct sampling probe was used to obtain analytes from sample surfaces. MS and MS/MS analyses were performed on fruits and vegetables via TD‐ESI‐MS. External calibration curves and reproducibility tests were performed using liquid pesticide standards. Pesticide decay and distribution on samples was studied, as well as the removal of residual pesticides via soaking in water or detergent baths.

RESULTS

Since sample pretreatment was unnecessary, an analysis was completed in approximately 15 s or less, with no visible sample damage. Mass spectra were obtained for 22 pesticides. Linear calibrations (R2 from 0.9414–0.999) had limits of detection as low as 0.5 µg·L–1, with satisfactory reproducibilities for liquids and solids. Pesticides on sample surfaces decayed over 2 weeks under ambient conditions. Residual pesticides localized at the fruit peel. Detergent baths removed more pesticide than water baths.

CONCLUSIONS

TD‐ESI‐MS was used to rapidly screen residual pesticides in liquids and solids. Pesticides were found on fruits and vegetables, where the decay, distribution, and removal of pesticides on samples were also explored. Due to short analysis times, the technique allows for high‐throughput analyses for applications in food and environmental safety. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of plasma protease derived metabolites of glucagon and their formation under typical laboratory sample handling conditions
Authors: Howard James W. , Kay Richard G. , Tan Tricia , Minnion James , Creaser Colin S.
Published: December 2014

RATIONALE

Glucagon modulates glucose production, and it is also a biomarker for several pathologies. It is known to be unstable in human plasma, and consequently stabilisers are often added to samples, although these are not particularly effective. Despite this, there have not been any studies to identify in vitro plasma protease derived metabolites; such a study is described here. Knowledge of metabolism should allow the development of more effective sample stabilisation strategies.

METHODS

Several novel metabolites resulting from the incubation of glucagon in human plasma were identified using high‐resolution mass spectrometry with positive electrospray ionisation. Tandem mass spectrometric (MS/MS) scans were acquired for additional confirmation using a QTRAP. Separation was performed using reversed‐phase ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography. The formation of these metabolites was investigated during a time‐course experiment and under specific stress conditions representative of typical laboratory handling conditions. Clinical samples were also screened for metabolites.

RESULTS

Glucagon3‐29 and [pGlu]3glucagon3‐29 were the major metabolites detected, both of which were also present in clinical samples. We also identified two oxidised forms of [pGlu]3glucagon3‐29 as well as glucagon19‐29, or 'miniglucagon', along with the novel metabolites glucagon20‐29 and glucagon21‐29. The relative levels of these metabolites varied throughout the time‐course experiment, and under the application of the different sample handling conditions. Aprotinin stabilisation of samples had negligible effect on metabolite formation.

CONCLUSIONS

Novel plasma protease metabolites of glucagon have been confirmed, and their formation characterised over a time‐course experiment and under typical laboratory handling conditions. These metabolites could be monitored to assess the effectiveness of new sample stabilisation strategies, and further investigations into their formation could suggest specific enzyme inhibitors to use to increase sample stability. In addition the potential of the metabolites to affect immunochemistry‐based assays as a result of cross‐reactivity could be investigated. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Test of the Serial Discontinuity Concept: Longitudinal Trends of Benthic Invertebrates in Regulated and Natural Rivers of Northern Canada
Authors: Ellis L. E. , Jones N. E.
Published: December 2014

Abiotic and biotic impacts below impoundments within the context of the River Continuum (RCC) and the Serial Discontinuity Concepts (SDC) have been the focus of many lotic studies. Recovery gradients, however, are rarely examined in sufficient detail below dams. Further refinement and understanding are needed to inform science and river managers about regulated river ecology. In this study, we examine longitudinal patterns in abiotic and biotic characteristics in two regulated rivers in Northern Canada. We also examine spatial patterns on two natural rivers: a lake outlet river and a river with no lakes. Direct gradient analysis revealed that increases in periphyton, planktonic drift, primary production, substrate size, and changes in thermal regime at sites closest to the dam drive benthic invertebrate community characteristics. We test the Serial Discontinuity Concept by comparing predicted functional forms of each environmental variable with the empirically derived forms. Substrate size, periphyton biomass, and drift density increased below dams and recovered quickly within 5 km downstream, following closely with SDC predictions. The response of organic matter and water quality was variable, and benthic invertebrate richness recovered relatively quickly, contrary to SDC predictions. Thermal regime and flow took much longer to recover than most variables and represent a second longer gradient type below dams. Plecoptera, Gomphidae, and Simuliidae were strongly influenced by altered resource and habitat and may be good candidates for indicators and predictive modelling. Our results generally support predictions from the Serial Discontinuity Concept and highlight the need for the further testing and refinement of this concept. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Survival, Growth, and Movement of Subadult Humpback Chub, Gila Cypha, in the Little Colorado River, Arizona
Authors: Dzul M. C. , Yackulic C. B. , Stone D. M. , Van Haverbeke D. R.
Published: December 2014

Ecologists estimate vital rates, such as growth and survival, to better understand population dynamics and identify sensitive life history parameters for species or populations of concern. Here, we assess spatiotemporal variation in growth, movement, density, and survival of subadult humpback chub living in the Little Colorado River, Grand Canyon, AZ from 2001–2002 and 2009–2013. We divided the Little Colorado River into three reaches and used a multistate mark‐recapture model to determine rates of movement and differences in survival and density between sites for different cohorts. Additionally, site‐specific and year‐specific effects on growth were evaluated using a linear model. Results indicate that summer growth was higher for upstream sites compared with downstream sites. In contrast, there was not a consistent spatial pattern across years in winter growth; however, river‐wide winter growth was negatively related to the duration of floods from 1 October to 15 May. Apparent survival was estimated to be lower at the most downstream site compared with the upstream sites; however, this could be because in part of increased emigration into the Colorado River at downstream sites. Furthermore, the 2010 cohort (i.e. fish that are age 1 in 2010) exhibited high apparent survival relative to other years. Movement between reaches varied with year, and some years exhibited preferential upstream displacement. Improving understanding of spatiotemporal effects on age 1 humpback chub survival can help inform current management efforts to translocate humpback chub into new locations and give us a better understanding of the factors that may limit this tributary's carrying capacity for humpback chub. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Improving Ann‐Based Short‐Term and Long‐Term Seasonal River Flow Forecasting with Signal Processing Techniques
Authors: Badrzadeh H. , Sarukkalige R. , Jayawardena A. W.
Published: December 2014

One of the key elements in achieving sustainable water resources and environmental management is forecasting the future condition of the surface water resources. In this study, the performance of a river flow forecasting model is improved when different input combinations and signal processing techniques are applied on multi‐layer backpropagation neural networks. Haar, Coiflet and Daubechies wavelet analysis are coupled with backpropagation neural networks model to develop hybrid wavelet neural networks models. Different models with different input selections and structures are developed for daily, weekly and monthly river flow forecasting in Ellen Brook River, Western Australia. Comparison of the performance of the hybrid approach with that of the original neural networks indicates that the hybrid models produce significantly better results. The improvement is more substantial for peak values and longer‐term forecasting, in which the Nash–Sutcliffe coefficient of efficiency for monthly river flow forecasting is improved from 0.63 to 0.89 in this study. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Books in / As / Through Books
Authors: Serafini Frank , Tompkins Felicia
Published: December 2014

This article explores a variety of contemporary picturebooks that offer the picturebook as an object of construction, as a character, and as portals to other narrative levels. These metafictive devices break the traditional boundaries between fictional and real worlds by involving the reader in the narrative, talking to them directly, and requiring them to actively participate in the construction of the narrative. In addition, we offer some ways these picturebooks may be integrated into the elementary reading curriculum.
Reviewing Manuscripts for the Journal of Genetic Counseling: Practical Suggestions
Authors: Venne Vickie
Published: December 2014

The Journal of Genetic Counseling is the literary voice of our profession and our scholarship is only as good as the articles that are accepted. A quality review assists the editor in making publication decisions and enhances the manuscripts that are published, ultimately benefitting our profession and the public. Perhaps you are new to the reviewing process and/or you wonder about the sorts of things that make for a good review. The purpose of this article is to provide general guidance to enhance your experience of peer review. While the focus is research manuscripts, many of the guidelines will be similar for case reports, reviews, or professional issues papers.
The Efficacy of Preemptive Analgesia for Postoperative Pain Control: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Penprase Barbara , Brunetto Elisa , Dahmani Eman , Forthoffer Jola Janaqi , Kapoor Samantha
Published: December 2014

The purpose of preemptive analgesia is to reduce postoperative pain, contributing to a more comfortable recovery period and reducing the need for narcotic pain control. The efficacy of preemptive analgesia remains controversial. This systematic review of the literature evaluated the efficacy of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitors, and gabapentin as preemptive oral analgesics for surgical patients. Included articles were limited to studies of adult patients that compared the difference in postoperative pain between control and treatment groups. Of 40 studies reviewed, 14 met the inclusion criteria, including two on NSAIDs, four on COX‐2 inhibitors, and eight on gabapentin. Research was predominantly conducted outside the United States. Gabapentin and COX‐2 inhibitors were found to be the most effective preemptive analgesics for postoperative pain control. As part of a collaborative team, perioperative nurses and certified RN anesthetists are responsible for ongoing pain assessment and management for preemptive analgesic interventions.
Cerebrospinal fluid levels of the synaptic protein neurogranin correlates with cognitive decline in prodromal Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Kvartsberg Hlin , Duits Flora H. , Ingelsson Martin , Andreasen Niels , Öhrfelt Annika , Andersson Kerstin , Brinkmalm Gunnar , Lannfelt Lars , Minthon Lennart , Hansson Oskar , Andreasson Ulf , Teunissen Charlotte E. , Scheltens Philip , Van der Flier Wiesje M. , Zetterberg Henrik , Portelius Erik , Blennow Kaj
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Synaptic dysfunction is an early event in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis and directly related to cognitive impairment. Consequently, synaptic biomarkers may be valuable tools for both early diagnosis and disease stage. Neurogranin (Ng) is a postsynaptic protein involved in memory consolidation.

Methods

We developed three monoclonal anti‐Ng antibodies. Mass spectrometry and a novel enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay were used to analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Ng in three independent clinical cohorts including patients with AD dementia (n = 100 in total), mild cognitive impairment patients (MCI), (n = 40) and controls (n = 80 in total).

Results

We show in three independent clinical cohorts a marked increase in CSF Ng levels in AD dementia (P < .001 in all studies). In addition, high CSF Ng levels at the MCI stage predicted progression to dementia due to AD with a hazard ratio of 12.8 (95% confidence interval 1.6–103.0, P = .02). In amyloid‐positive MCI patients, high CSF Ng correlated with a more rapid change in cognition during clinical follow‐up (P = .03).

Discussion

These results suggest that CSF Ng is a novel AD biomarker that may be used to monitor synaptic degeneration, and correlates with the rate of cognitive decline in prodromal AD.
The power of repetition: repetitive lyrics in a song increase processing fluency and drive market success
Authors: Nunes Joseph C. , Ordanini Andrea , Valsesia Francesca
Published: December 2014

The majority of music people listen to in their daily lives includes lyrics. This research documents how more repetitive songs lyrically are processed more fluently and thus adopted more broadly and quickly in the marketplace. Study 1 is a controlled laboratory experiment demonstrating how lexical repetition, a feature of the stimulus and not the consequence of repeated exposures, results in greater processing fluency. Study 2 replicates the effect utilizing custom‐produced song excerpts holding everything constant except the lyrics. Utilizing data from Billboard's Hot 100 singles chart from 1958–2012, Study 3 documents how more repetitive songs stand a greater chance of reaching #1 as opposed to lingering at the bottom of the chart. An analysis of #1 hits reveals increased repetition decreases the time it takes to reach #1 and increases the odds of debuting in the Top 40. This research chronicles the impact of processing fluency on consumer choice in the real world while demonstrating repetition as a stimulus feature matters. It also introduces a new variable to the processing fluency literature: lexical repetition.
Polysomnographic predictors of persistent continuous positive airway pressure adherence in patients with moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Chen Yung‐Fu , Hang Liang‐Wen , Huang Chun‐Sen , Liang Shinn‐Jye , Chung Wei‐Sheng
Published: December 2014

Extensive use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has positive clinical benefits for most patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, patient adherence is a major limiting factor to the effectiveness of CPAP treatment. This study determined the potential and quantifiable factors affecting the willingness of patients with OSA to undertake CPAP treatment by comparing the polysomnographic parameters recorded during diagnosis and titration. Patients with moderate and severe OSA who attended diagnostic polysomnography (PSG) and CPAP titration at the sleep center of China Medical University Hospital (CMUH) were included in the study. A total of 312 patients were divided into persistent users and nonusers of CPAP according to their use of in‐home CPAP following titration and a 7‐day CPAP trial. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to define the potential polysomnographic predictors of persistent CPAP adherence, and odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Most patients were men older than 50 years who were overweight or obese. Among the patients, 146 (46.8%) became persistent CPAP users. A 10% improvement of oxygen desaturation index (ODI) and a 10% increment in deep sleep percentage increased the chance of persistent CPAP use 1.18‐fold and 1.07‐fold, respectively. In addition, the improved ODI and deep sleep during CPAP titration increased the chance of persistent CPAP user. The polysomnographic parameters obtained from diagnosis and during titration can facilitate the prediction of persistent CPAP use.
Therapeutic effects of 5‐fluorouracil sustained‐release particles in 81 malignant pericardial effusion patients
Authors: Ji Yong‐Li , Li Rui‐Zhi , Xue Li‐Fang , Li Ping , Liang Xiao‐Hong , Dong Liang , Gao Yang , Cui Wen‐Chao , Pang Min‐Xia
Published: December 2014

This study aimed to investigate the clinical application value of the 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) sustained‐release particles implanted along the cardiac tangent direction into malignant pericardial effusion (MPCE). A total of 81 MPCE patients underwent pericardiocentesis, and were implanted with 5‐FU sustained‐release particles into the pericardial cavity under ultrasound guidance. The puncturing path was along the cardiac tangent direction. Ultrasound examinations were performed every week, and the efficacy was evaluated 4 weeks after treatment. The 45 patients who were treated with pericardial catheter drainage and simultaneous intracavitary chemotherapy were used as the control group. The success rate of pericardiocentesis was 100%. Ultrasound reviews performed 4 weeks after treatment showed that 71 cases achieved complete remission and eight cases achieved partial remission, while treatment was completely ineffective in two cases. The total remission rate was 97.53%, which was significantly higher than that of the control group (77.78%, p < 0.01). The implantation of 5‐FU sustained‐release particles along the cardiac tangent direction was safe, and demonstrated good efficacy and fewer adverse reactions. Thus, this method could be ideal for the treatment of MPCE.