bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controllable Synthesis of Bandgap‐Tunable CuSxSe1−x Nanoplate Alloys
Authors: Xu Jun , Yang Xia , Yang Qing‐Dan , Huang Xing , Tang Yongbing , Zhang Wenjun , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: April 2015

Composition engineering is an important approach for modulating the physical properties of alloyed semiconductors. In this work, ternary CuSxSe1−x nanoplates over the entire composition range of 0≤x≤1 have been controllably synthesized by means of a simple aqueous solution method at low temperature (90 °C). Reaction of Cu2+ cations with polysulfide/‐selenide ((SnSem)2−) anions rather than independent Sn2− and Sem2− anions is responsible for the low‐temperature and rapid synthesis of CuSxSe1−x alloys, and leads to higher S/Se ratios in the alloys than that in reactants owing to different dissociation energies of the Se−Se and the S−S bonds. The lattice parameters ‘a’ and ‘c’ of the hexagonal CuSxSe1−x alloys decrease linearly, whereas the direct bandgaps increase quadratically along with the S content. Direct bandgaps of the alloys can be tuned over a wide range from 1.64 to 2.19 eV. Raman peaks of the S−Se stretching mode are observed, thus further confirming formation of the alloyed CuSxSe1−x phase.
Redox‐Mediated Synthesis of a Fe3O4–MnO2 Nanocomposite for Dye Adsorption and Pseudocapacitance
Authors: Sahoo Ramkrishna , Pradhan Mukul , Roy Anindita , Dutta Soumen , Ray Chaiti , Negishi Yuichi , Pal Anjali , Pal Tarasankar
Published: April 2015

A logically chosen redox reaction of submerged Fe0 in an aqueous KMnO4 solution has been reported. The template‐free reaction conditions produced gram amounts of a hierarchical flowerlike Fe3O4–MnO2 nanocomposite. More precisely, freshly prepared Fe0 nanoparticles were prepared from air‐free hot water under submerged conditions using a door magnet. The black Fe0 particles were oxidized in water quantitatively by KMnO4 in the solution phase and the nanocomposite was prepared. The material has been used as a dye adsorbent and the representative cationic dye uptake, recovery, and recycling of the dye becomes easy owing to the ferromagnetic properties and surface negative charge of the material. The nanocomposite also showed a higher specific capacitance (327 F g−1 at 10 mV s−1) than the reported values of pure MnO2 and Fe3O4. The material exhibited a high energy density as well as a high power density, and remained stable even after a large number of charge–discharge cycles.
Linker length and flexibility induces new cellobiohydrolase activity of PoCel6A from Penicillium oxalicum
Authors: Gao Le , Wang Lushan , Jiang Xukai , Qu Yinbo
Published: April 2015

In a previous study, a novel cellobiohydrolase, PoCel6A, with new enzymatic activity against p‐nitrophenyl‐β‐D‐cellobioside (pNPC), was purified from Penicillium oxalicum. The cellulose‐binding module and catalytic domain of PoCel6A showed a high degree of sequence similarity with other fungal Cel6As. However, PoCel6A had 11 more amino acids in the linker region than other Cel6As. To evaluate the relationship between the longer linker of PoCel6A and its enzymatic activity, 11 amino acids were deleted from the linker region of PoCel6A. The shortened PoCel6A linker nullified the enzymatic activity against pNPC but dramatically increased the enzyme's capacity for crystalline cellulose degradation. The shortened linker segment appeared to have no effect on the secondary structural conformation of PoCel6A. Another variant (PoCel6A‐6pro) with six consecutive proline residues in the interdomain linker had a higher rigid linker, and no enzymatic activity was observed against soluble and insoluble substrate. The flexibility of the linker had an important function in the formation of active cellulase. The length and flexibility of the linker is clearly able to modify the function of PoCel6A and induce new characteristics of Cel6A.
Spatial and temporal control of cell aggregation efficiently directs human pluripotent stem cells towards neural commitment
Authors: Miranda Cláudia C. , Fernandes Tiago G. , Pascoal Jorge F. , Haupt Simone , Brüstle Oliver , Cabral Joaquim M.S. , Diogo Maria Margarida
Published: April 2015

3D suspension culture is generally considered a promising method to achieve efficient expansion and controlled differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). In this work, we focused on developing an integrated culture platform for expansion and neural commitment of hPSCs into neural precursors using 3D suspension conditions and chemically‐defined culture media. We evaluated different inoculation methodologies for hPSC expansion as 3D aggregates and characterized the resulting cultures in terms of aggregate size distribution. It was demonstrated that upon single‐cell inoculation, after four days of culture, 3D aggregates were composed of homogenous populations of hPSC and were characterized by an average diameter of 139 ± 26 μm, which was determined to be the optimal size to initiate neural commitment. Temporal analysis revealed that upon neural specification it is possible to maximize the percentage of neural precursor cells expressing the neural markers Sox1 and Pax6 after nine days of culture. These results highlight our ability to define a robust method for production of hPSC‐derived neural precursors that minimizes processing steps and that constitutes a promising alternative to the traditional planar adherent culture system due to a high potential for scaling‐up.
Ca2+‐independent sortase‐A exhibits high selective protein ligation activity in the cytoplasm of Escherichia coli
Authors: Hirakawa Hidehiko , Ishikawa Suguru , Nagamune Teruyuki
Published: April 2015

A Staphylococcus aureus transpeptidase, sortase A (SrtA), which catalyzes a peptide ligation with high substrate specificity, is a useful tool to site‐specifically attach proteinaceous/peptidic functional molecules to target proteins. However, its strong Ca2+ dependency makes SrtA difficult for use under low Ca2+ concentrations and in the presence of Ca2+‐binding substances. To overcome this problem, we designed a SrtA mutant that Ca2+‐independently demonstrates a high catalytic activity. The heptamutant (P94R/E105K/E108A/D160N/D165A/K190E/K196T), which resulted from a combination of known mutations at the Ca2+‐binding site and around the substrate‐binding site, successfully catalyzed a selective protein‐protein ligation in the cytoplasm of Escherichia coli. Selective protein modification in living cells is a promising approach for investigating cellular events and regulating cell functions. This SrtA mutant may prove to be a versatile tool for adding new functionalities to proteins of interest by incorporating functional proteins and chemically modified peptides in living cells, which usually retain low Ca2+ concentrations.
One‐step generation of triple knockout CHO cell lines using CRISPR/Cas9 and fluorescent enrichment
Authors: Grav Lise Marie , Lee Jae Seong , Gerling Signe , Kallehauge Thomas Beuchert , Hansen Anders Holmgaard , Kol Stefan , Lee Gyun Min , Pedersen Lasse Ebdrup , Kildegaard Helene Faustrup
Published: April 2015

The CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology has previously been shown to be a highly efficient tool for generating gene disruptions in CHO cells. In this study we further demonstrate the applicability and efficiency of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing by disrupting FUT8, BAK and BAX simultaneously in a multiplexing setup in CHO cells. To isolate Cas9‐expressing cells from transfected cell pools, GFP was linked to the Cas9 nuclease via a 2A peptide. With this method, the average indel frequencies generated at the three genomic loci were increased from 11% before enrichment to 68% after enrichment. Despite the high number of genome editing events in the enriched cell pools, no significant off‐target effects were observed from off‐target prediction followed by deep sequencing. Single cell sorting of enriched multiplexed cells and deep sequencing of 97 clones revealed the presence of four single, 23 double and 34 triple gene‐disrupted cell lines. Further characterization of selected potential triple knockout clones confirmed the removal of Bak and Bax protein and disrupted fucosylation activity as expected. The knockout cell lines showed improved resistance to apoptosis compared to wild‐type CHO‐S cells. Taken together, multiplexing with CRISPR/Cas9 can accelerate genome engineering efforts in CHO cells even further.
Sensitive and precise HPLC method with back‐extraction clean‐up step for the determination of sildenafil in rat plasma and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Strach Beata , Wyska Elżbieta , Pociecha Krzysztof , Krupa Anna , Jachowicz Renata
Published: April 2015

A sensitive HPLC method was developed and validated for the determination of sildenafil concentrations in rat plasma (200 μL) using a liquid–liquid extraction procedure and paroxetine as an internal standard. In order to eliminate interferences and improve the peak shape, a back‐extraction into an acidic solution was utilized. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a cyanopropyl bonded‐phase column with a mobile phase composed of 50 m m potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer (pH 4.5) and acetonitrile (75:25, v/v), pumped at the flow rate of 1 mL/min. A UV detector was set at 230 nm. A calibration curve was constructed within a concentration range from 10 to 1500 ng/mL. The limit of detection was 5 ng/mL. The inter‐ and intra‐day precisions of the assay were in the ranges 2.91–7.33 and 2.61–6.18%, respectively, and the accuracies for inter‐ and intra‐day runs were within 0.14–3.92 and 0.44–2.96%, respectively. The recovery of sildenafil was 85.22 ± 4.54%. Tests confirmed the stability of sildenafil in plasma during three freeze–thaw cycles and during long‐term storage at −20 and −80°C for up to 2 months. The proposed method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study in rats. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Description and evaluation of an intraoral cervical plexus anesthetic technique
Authors: Bitner Daniel P. , Uzbelger Feldman Daniel , Axx Kevin , Albandar Jasim M.
Published: April 2015

Unsuccessful anesthesia of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) may be due to supplementary innervations of mandibular molars from other branches, namely the cervical plexus (CP). The purpose of this prospective, randomized, double‐blind, controlled trial was to determine the effectiveness of an intraoral cervical plexus anesthetic technique (ICPAT) in mandibular molars with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis (SIR) when the IAN and lingual nerve (LN) blocks failed, and to provide a description of the technique. Forty patients diagnosed with SIR received IAN and LN block anesthesia prior to treatment. After clinical signs of anesthesia, patients were subjected to an electrical pulp test (EPT) at 2‐min cycles for 10 min post‐injection. The anesthesia was considered unsuccessful if there was a positive EPT response ten minutes following profound lip numbness. The experimental group (n = 20) were administered 2% Lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine using the ICPAT. The control group (n = 20) were administered 0.9% sterile saline using the ICPAT. Success was defined as no response on two consecutive readings from an EPT. In the experimental group, 60% of subjects showed successful anesthesia, whereas none of the subjects in the control group had successful anesthesia. A multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the anesthesia success rate using the ICPAT method was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than in the control group, irrespective of molar tooth type. The ICPAT method may be useful as a supplementary anesthetic technique for mandibular molars with SIR in subjects whom the IAN and LN blocks do not provide adequate anesthesia. Clin. Anat. 28:608–613, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluating sexual dimorphism in the human mastoid process: A viewpoint on the methodology
Authors: Petaros Anja , Sholts Sabrina B. , Slaus Mario , Bosnar Alan , Wärmländer Sebastian K.T.S.
Published: April 2015

The mastoid process is one of the most sexually dimorphic features in the human skull, and is therefore often used to identify the sex of skeletons. Numerous techniques for assessing variation in the size and shape of the mastoid process have been proposed and implemented in osteological research, but its complex form still presents difficulties for consistent and effective analysis. In this article, we compare the different techniques and variables that have been used to define, measure, and visually score sexual dimorphism in the mastoid process. We argue that the current protocols fail to capture the full morphological range of this bony projection, and suggest ways of improving and standardizing them, regarding both traditional and 3D‐based approaches. Clin. Anat. 28:593–601, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Direct Staudinger–Phosphonite Reaction Provides Methylphosphonamidates as Inhibitors of CE4 De‐N‐acetylases
Authors: Ariyakumaran Rishikesh , Pokrovskaya Varvara , Little Dustin J. , Howell P. Lynne , Nitz Mark
Published: April 2015

De‐N‐acetylases of β‐(1→6)‐D‐N‐acetylglucosamine polymers (PNAG) and β‐(1→4)‐D‐N‐acetylglucosamine residues in peptidoglycan are attractive targets for antimicrobial agents. PNAG de‐N‐acetylases are necessary for biofilm formation in numerous pathogenic bacteria. Peptidoglycan de‐N‐acetylation facilitates bacterial evasion of innate immune defenses. To target these enzymes, transition‐state analogue inhibitors containing a methylphosphonamidate have been synthesized through a direct Staudinger–phosphonite reaction. The inhibitors were tested on purified PgaB, a PNAG de‐N‐acetylase from Escherichia coli, and PgdA, a peptidoglycan de‐N‐acetylase from Streptococcus pneumonia. Herein, we describe the most potent inhibitor of peptidoglycan de‐N‐acetylases reported to date (Ki=80 μM). The minimal inhibition of PgaB observed provides insight into key structural and functional differences in these enzymes that will need to be considered during the development of future inhibitors.
Effect of alteration of caveolin‐1 expression on doxorubicin‐induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiac cells
Authors: Takaguri Akira , Kamato Maiko , Satoh Yoshiaki , Ohtsuki Kazuaki , Satoh Kumi
Published: April 2015

Doxorubicin is an anthracycline antibiotic widely used in cancer treatment. Although its antitumor efficacy appears to be dose dependent, its clinical use is greatly restricted by the development of cardiotoxicity associated with apoptosis. Although caveolin‐1, the major structural protein in caveolae, can positively or negatively regulate apoptosis depending on the stimulus or cell types, the contribution of caveolin‐1 to doxorubicin‐induced apoptosis remains unknown. This study was performed to identify the regulatory role of caveolin‐1 on doxorubicin‐induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiac cells using a genetic approach. Caveolin‐1 knockdown with a short hairpin (sh) RNA adenovirus, but not overexpression of wild‐type caveolin‐1, resulted in a marked inhibition of doxorubicin‐induced caspase‐3 cleavage. However, caveolin‐1 knockdown tended to protect against doxorubicin‐induced decrease in cell viability, but it did not significantly reverse cell death induced by doxorubicin. Doxorubicin stimulated the phosphorylation of p38 and extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK). Doxorubicin‐induced caspase‐3 cleavage was inhibited by U0126, a MEK inhibitor or SB203580, a p38 inhibitor. Caveolin‐1 knockdown markedly inhibited doxorubicin‐induced p‐38 phosphorylation but not ERK‐mediated p‐53 phosphorylation in H9c2 cardiac cells. Our results suggest that reduced caveolin‐1 expression plays an anti‐apoptotic role in doxorubicin‐induced apoptosis but that it is insufficient to prevent such an apoptosis in H9c2 cardiac cells.
Untersuchungen zur Steigerung der Trocknungsgeschwindigkeit der Gefriertrocknung
Authors: Pliske Roland , Müller Ulrich , Kohlus Reinhard
Published: April 2015

Die Gefriertrocknung bietet gegenüber anderen Trocknungsmethoden den Vorteil einer schonenden Behandlung. Ein Nachteil ist jedoch die längere Trocknungszeit. Abhilfe kann diesbezüglich die dynamische Gefriertrocknung schaffen. Hierbei wird der Wärmeübergang auf das Produkt verbessert und die sich bildende Trockenstoffschicht wird permanent entfernt. Somit wird der Wärme‐ und Stofftransportwiderstand der Trockenschicht reduziert und es wird in der Nähe der Eiskristalle getrocknet. Dies bringt eine Steigerung der Trocknungsgeschwindigkeit mit sich, da im ersten Trocknungsabschnitt getrocknet werden kann.
Prediction with missing data via Bayesian Additive Regression Trees
Authors: Kapelner Adam , Bleich Justin
Published: April 2015

We present a method for incorporating missing data into general prediction problems which use nonparametric statistical learning. We focus on a tree‐based method, Bayesian Additive Regression Trees (BART), enhanced with “Missingness Incorporated in Attributes,” a recently proposed approach for incorporating missingness into decision trees. This procedure extends the native partitioning mechanisms found in tree‐based models and does not require imputation. Simulations on generated models and real data indicate that our procedure offers promise for both selection model and pattern‐mixture frameworks as measured by out‐of‐sample predictive accuracy. We also illustrate BART's abilities to incorporate missingness into uncertainty intervals. Our implementation is readily available in the R package bartMachine. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 43: 224–239; 2015 © 2015 Statistical Society of Canada
Assertive Anger Mediates Effects of Dialectical Behaviour‐informed Skills Training for Borderline Personality Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kramer Ueli , Pascual‐Leone Antonio , Berthoud Laurent , de Roten Yves , Marquet Pierre , Kolly Stéphane , Despland Jean‐Nicolas , Page Dominique
Published: April 2015

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)‐informed skills training for borderline personality disorder (BPD) aims at the development of specific emotion regulation skills in patients, particularly with regard to the regulation of problematic anger. While the effects of dialectical behaviour skills training have been shown, their processes of change are rarely examined. Neacsiu, Rizvi and Linehan (2010) found that patient's self‐reported use of emotion regulation skills was a mediator of therapeutic change in these treatments; however, they found no effect for problematic anger. From an integrative perspective on anger (Pascual‐Leone & Greenberg, 2007; Pascual‐Leone & Paivio, 2013), there are several forms of anger, varying in their degree of therapeutic productivity. The present add‐on randomized controlled trial included n = 41 patients with BPD (n = 21 DBT‐informed skills training versus n = 20 treatment as usual). The first study examined the outcome of the DBT‐informed skills training encompassing basic components of training in mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness and emotion regulation. Results showed that symptom reduction was significantly greater in the DBT‐informed skills training, compared with the treatment as usual. The second study used process assessment, for which all patient completers underwent a 50‐min‐long psychological interview both early and late in treatment, which was rated using the Classification of Affective Meaning States. DBT‐informed skills training produced increased levels of primary ‘assertive’ anger, as compared with the treatment as usual, whereas no effect was found for ‘rejecting’ secondary anger. Most importantly, we showed that changes in assertive anger mediated the reported symptom reduction, in particular in patient's social roles. We discuss these results in the context of underlying mechanisms of change in DBT skills group treatments, in particular towards developing more productive forms of anger in this patient population. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

A 20‐session dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)‐informed skills training is a promising adjunct intervention for patients with borderline personality disorder, in particular for reducing problems related to social role.

Increases in assertive anger mediate the effects of DBT‐informed skills training, whereas rejecting anger remains unchanged over the course of treatment.

Short‐term objectives for intervention might involve the specific increase of assertive anger in BPD, by using DBT‐informed skills training; long‐term objectives for intervention might involve a specific decrease of rejecting anger in BPD.
Evolution of petaloidy in the zingiberales: An assessment of the relationship between ultrastructure and gene expression patterns
Authors: Rocha de Almeida Ana Maria , Yockteng Roxana , Specht Chelsea D.
Published: April 2015

Background: The development of petal‐like organs has occurred repetitively throughout angiosperm evolution. Despite homoplasy, it is possible that common underlying molecular mechanisms are repeatedly recruited to drive the development of petaloid organs. In Zingiberales, infertile, petal‐like structures replace fertile stamens, resulting in petaloidy in androecial whorls. Assuming that androecial petaloidy is a shared derived characteristic, we expect to find common ultrastructure and molecular mechanisms underlying androecial petaloidy across Zingiberales. Results: We show that petaloidy in Zingiberales is associated with tightly packed, protruding epidermal cells. Expression patterns for candidate genes involved in petal identity differ between the petaloid organs of Costaceae v. Cannaceae, despite similar macro‐ and microscopic organization. For all candidate gene families analyzed, our data suggest at least one Zingiberales‐specific duplication event. Conclusions: Our data suggest that the patterns of B‐class gene expression across the Zingiberales do not correlate with the occurrence of petaloidy, indicating that androecial petaloidy might have evolved independently of B‐class gene expression in some lineages. It is possible that gene duplication may play a role in the diversity of petaloid structures found throughout the Zingiberales. It is likely that Zingiberales petaloidy may also result from the deployment of genes other than those involved in specification of petal identity. Developmental Dynamics 244:1121–1132, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Motor neuron‐expressed microRNAs 218 and their enhancers are nested within introns of Slit2/3 genes
Authors: Punnamoottil Beena , Rinkwitz Silke , Giacomotto Jean , Svahn Adam J. , Becker Thomas S.
Published: April 2015

miR218‐1 and miR218‐2 are embedded in introns of SLIT2 and SLIT3, respectively, an arrangement conserved throughout vertebrate genomes. Both miR218 genes are predicted to be transcribed in the same orientation as their host genes and were assumed to be spliced from Slit2/3 primary transcripts. In zebrafish miR218 is active in cranial nerve motor nuclei and spinal cord motor neurons, while slit2 and slit3 are expressed predominantly in the midline. This differential expression pattern suggested independent regulation of miR218 genes by distinct enhancers. We tested conserved noncoding elements for regulatory activity by reporter gene transgenesis in zebrafish. Two human enhancers, 76 kb and 130 kb distant from miR218‐2, were identified that drove GFP expression in zebrafish in an almost complete miR218 expression pattern. In the zebrafish slit3 locus, two enhancers with identical activity were discovered. In human SLIT2 one enhancer 52 kb upstream of miR218‐1 drove an expression pattern very similar to the enhancers of miR218‐2. This establishes that miR218‐1/‐2 regulatory units are nested within SLIT2/3 and that they are duplicates of an ancestral single locus. Due to the strong activity of the enhancers, unique transgenic lines were created that facilitate morphological and gene functional genetic experiments in motor neurons. genesis 53:321–328, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ecological gradients driving the distribution of four Ericaceae in boreal Quebec, Canada
Authors: Thiffault Nelson , Grondin Pierre , Noël Jean , Poirier Véronique
Published: April 2015

Understory species play a significant role in forest ecosystem dynamics. As such, species of the Ericaceae family have a major effect on the regeneration of tree species in boreal ecosystems. It is thus imperative to understand the ecological gradients controlling their distribution and abundance, so that their impacts can be taken into account in sustainable forest management. Using innovative analytical techniques from landscape ecology, we aimed to position, along ecological gradients, four Ericaceae found in the boreal forest of Quebec (Canada) (Rhododendron groenlandicum, Kalmia angustifolia, Chamaedaphne calyculata, and Vaccinium spp), to regionalize these species into landscape units relevant to forest management, and to estimate the relative importance of several ecological drivers (climate, disturbances, stand attributes, and physical environment) that control the species distribution and abundance. We conducted our study in boreal Quebec, over a study area covering 535,355 km2. We used data from 15,339 ecological survey plots and forest maps to characterize 1422 ecological districts covering the study region. We evaluated the relative proportion of each ericaceous species and explanatory variables at the district level. Vegetation and explanatory variables matrices were used to conduct redundancy, cluster, and variation partitioning analyses. We observed that ericaceous species are mainly distributed in the western part of the study area and each species has a distinct latitudinal and longitudinal gradient distribution. On the basis of these gradients, we delimited 10 homogeneous landscape units distinct in terms of ericaceous species abundance and environmental drivers. The distribution of the ericaceous species along ecological gradients is closely related to the overlaps between the four sets of explanatory variables considered. We conclude that the studied Ericaceae occupy specific positions along ecological gradients and possess a specific abundance and distribution controlled by the integration of multiple explanatory variables.
Cross‐regulation between cytokine and microRNA pathways in T cells
Authors: Amado Tiago , Schmolka Nina , Metwally Hozaifa , Silva‐Santos Bruno , Gomes Anita Q.
Published: April 2015

microRNA (miRNA) mediated regulation of protein expression has emerged as an important mechanism in T‐cell physiology, from development and survival to activation, proliferation, and differentiation. One of the major classes of proteins involved in these processes are cytokines, which are both key input signals and major products of T‐cell function. Here, we summarize the current data on the molecular cross‐talk between cytokines and miRNAs: how cytokines regulate miRNA expression, and how specific miRNAs control cytokine production in T cells. We also describe the inflammatory consequences of deregulating the miRNA/cytokine axis in mice and humans. We believe this topical area will have key implications for immune modulation and treatment of autoimmune pathology.
Out‐of‐plane strength reduction of unreinforced masonry walls because of in‐plane damages
Authors: Dolatshahi Kiarash M. , Yekrangnia Mohammad
Published: April 2015

There are numerous studies on the behavior of Unreinforced Masonry (URM) walls in both in‐plane (IP) and out‐of‐plane (OP) directions; however, few aimed at understanding the simultaneous contribution of these intrinsic responses during earthquakes. Undoubtedly, even a strong URM wall shows weakened capacity in the OP direction because of minor cracks and other damages in the IP direction, and this capacity reduction has not yet been accounted for in seismic codes. In this study, performance of three URM walls is evaluated by several numerical analyses in terms of the OP capacity reduction because of IP displacements and failure modes. Several parameters influencing the OP capacity have been studied including aspect ratio, roof boundary condition, IP displacement and IP loading patterns. The results indicate that reduction in the OP capacity of URM walls varies from negligible to very high depending on boundary conditions, IP failure mode and IP damage severity. Moreover, IP loading pattern is more important in walls with higher aspect ratios because of their IP failure modes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Habits of Practice
Authors: Wickens Corrine M. , Manderino Michael , Parker Jenny , Jung Jinhong
Published: April 2015

In recent years, disciplinary literacy has been at the forefront of adolescent literacy research and practice but has largely focused on the four core content areas: English language arts, social studies, science, and mathematics. Drawing on a physical education lens, this article is a call to expand the definitions, approaches, and framework of disciplinary literacy by examining three critical issues for disciplinary literacy: focus on the disciplinary expert (i.e., thinking like a historian, a mathematician, a scientist, etc.), emphasis on cognition over other forms of engagement and disciplinary practice, and notions of student participation and activity.
Transgenic and cloned animals in the food chain – are we prepared to tackle it?
Authors: Jagadeesan Premanandh , Salem Samara Bin
Published: April 2015

Transgenic and cloned animal production for various purposes has been increasing rapidly in recent times. While the actual impact of these animals in the food chain is unknown, the significance of tracking and monitoring measures to curb accidental and or deliberate release has been discussed. Religious perspectives from different faiths and traditions have been presented. Although the concept of substantial equivalence satisfies the technical and nutritional requirements of these products when assessed against comparators, public opinion and religious concerns should also be considered by the regulators while developing policy regulations. In conclusion, measures to prevent real or perceived risks of transgenic and cloned animals in food production require global coordinated action. It is worthwhile to consider establishing effective tracking systems and analytical procedures as this will be a valuable tool if a global consensus is not reached on policy regulation. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Contribution of portal‐drained viscera to heat production in Iberian gilts fed a low‐protein diet: comparison to Landrace
Authors: González‐Valero Lucrecia , Rodríguez‐López José M , Lachica Manuel , Fernández‐Fígares Ignacio
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

In terms of whole‐body metabolism, visceral tissues have a disproportionate influence with respect to their masses, and under certain circumstances their high metabolic rate may compromise nutrient availability to the tissues of productive/economic interest. The low energy efficiency of Iberian compared to modern breeds could be partly explained by the contribution of portal‐drained viscera to heat production. The objective of this study was to determine the relative contribution of portal‐drained viscera heat production (PDVHP) to total heat production (THP) in Iberian and Landrace gilts fed a diet with low protein content.

RESULTS

Compared to Landrace, Iberian gilts (29 ± 0.9 kg body weight) had lower pre‐ and postprandial portal vein blood flow (654 vs. 965, and 746 vs. 1133 mL min−1, respectively; P < 0.01), postprandial PDVHP (3.09 vs. 3.88 kJ h−1 kg−0.75; P < 0.01) and PDVHP/THP ratio (0.08 vs. 0.13; P < 0.05), and greater THP (38.5 vs. 31.8 kJ h−1 kg−0.75; P < 0.05), when offered 0.25 of their daily ration in a 6 h sampling period.

CONCLUSION

In spite of the low energetic efficiency and growth rate of Iberian compared to modern breeds, the contribution of PDV energy expenditure relative to THP was lower in Iberian compared to Landrace gilts in the present study. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
DNA damage protection against free radicals of two antioxidant neolignan glucosides from sugarcane molasses
Authors: Asikin Yonathan , Takahashi Makoto , Mizu Masami , Takara Kensaku , Oku Hirosuke , Wada Koji
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Sugarcane molasses is a potential by‐product of the sugarcane manufacturing industry that is rich in antioxidant materials. The present study aimed to obtain antioxidative compounds from sugarcane molasses and to evaluate their ability to protect DNA from oxidative damage.

RESULTS

Two neolignan glucosides were isolated from sugarcane molasses using bioassay and UV spectra monitoring‐guided fractionation. The compounds were elucidated as (7R,8S)‐dehydrodiconiferyl alcohol‐4‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside (1) and (7S,8R)‐simulanol‐9′‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside (2). Neolignan glucoside 2 protected against DNA damage caused by free radicals more effectively than did neolignan glucoside 1 (13.62 and 9.08 µmol L−1 for peroxyl and hydroxyl radicals, respectively, compared to 48.07 and 14.42 µmol L−1). Additionally, neolignan glucoside 2 exhibited superior DNA protection against free radicals compared with various known antioxidative compounds, including p‐coumaric acid, ferulic acid, vanillic acid and epigallocatechin gallate.

CONCLUSION

The isolated neolignan glucosides from sugarcane molasses are able to protect DNA from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This is the first identification of these two compounds in sugarcane molasses. The sugarcane molasses can therefore be used as potential nutraceutical preventative agents, and the findings may foster the utilization of this by‐product as a bioresource‐based product. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
First experience of liver transplantation with type 2 donation after cardiac death in France
Authors: Savier Eric , Dondero Federica , Vibert Eric , Eyraud Daniel , Brisson Hélène , Riou Bruno , Fieux Fabienne , Naili‐Kortaia Salima , Castaing Denis , Rouby Jean‐Jacques , Langeron Olivier , Dokmak Safi , Hannoun Laurent , Vaillant Jean‐Christophe ,   the Donation After Cardiac Death Study Group
Published: April 2015

Organ donation after unexpected cardiac death [type 2 donation after cardiac death (DCD)] is currently authorized in France and has been since 2006. Following the Spanish experience, a national protocol was established to perform liver transplantation (LT) with type 2 DCD donors. After the declaration of death, abdominal normothermic oxygenated recirculation was used to perfuse and oxygenate the abdominal organs until harvesting and cold storage. Such grafts were proposed to consenting patients < 65 years old with liver cancer and without any hepatic insufficiency. Between 2010 and 2013, 13 LTs were performed in 3 French centers. Six patients had a rapid and uneventful postoperative recovery. However, primary nonfunction occurred in 3 patients, with each requiring urgent retransplantation, and 4 early allograft dysfunctions were observed. One patient developed a nonanastomotic biliary stricture after 3 months, whereas 8 patients showed no sign of ischemic cholangiopathy at their 1‐year follow‐up. In comparison with a control group of patients receiving grafts from brain‐dead donors (n = 41), donor age and cold ischemia time were significantly lower in the type 2 DCD group. Time spent on the national organ wait list tended to be shorter in the type 2 DCD group: 7.5 months [interquartile range (IQR), 4.0‐11.0 months] versus 12.0 months (IQR, 6.8‐16.7 months; P = 0.08. The 1‐year patient survival rates were similar (85% in the type 2 DCD group versus 93% in the control group), but the 1‐year graft survival rate was significantly lower in the type 2 DCD group (69% versus 93%; P = 0.03). In conclusion, to treat borderline hepatocellular carcinoma, LT with type 2 DCD donors is possible as long as strict donor selection is observed. Liver Transpl 21:631‐643, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Optimizing repeat liver transplant graft utility through strategic matching of donor and recipient characteristics
Authors: Hung Kenneth , Gralla Jane , Dodge Jennifer L. , Bambha Kiran M. , Dirchwolf Melisa , Rosen Hugo R. , Biggins Scott W.
Published: April 2015

Repeat liver transplantation (LT) is controversial because of inferior outcomes versus primary LT. A minimum 1‐year expected post–re‐LT survival of 50% has been proposed. We aimed to identify combinations of Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD), donor risk index (DRI), and recipient characteristics achieving this graft survival threshold. We identified re‐LT recipients listed in the United States from March 2002 to January 2010 with > 90 days between primary LT and listing for re‐LT. Using Cox regression, we estimated the expected probability of 1‐year graft survival and identified combinations of MELD, DRI, and recipient characteristics attaining >50% expected 1‐year graft survival. Re‐LT recipients (n = 1418) had a median MELD of 26 and median age of 52 years. Expected 1‐year graft survival exceeded 50% regardless of MELD or DRI in Caucasian recipients who were not infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) of all ages and Caucasian HCV‐infected recipients <50 years old. As age increased in HCV‐infected Caucasian and non‐HCV‐infected African American recipients, lower MELD scores or lower DRI grafts were needed to attain the graft survival threshold. As MELD scores increased in HCV‐infected African American recipients, lower‐DRI livers were required to achieve the graft survival threshold. Use of high‐DRI livers (>1.44) in HCV‐infected recipients with a MELD score > 26 at re‐LT failed to achieve the graft survival threshold with recipient age ≥ 60 years (any race), as well as at age ≥ 50 years for Caucasians and at age < 50 years for African Americans. Strategic donor selection can achieve >50% expected 1‐year graft survival even in high‐risk re‐LT recipients (HCV infected, older age, African American race, high MELD scores). Low‐risk transplant recipients (age < 50 years, non‐HCV‐infected) can achieve the survival threshold with varying DRI and MELD scores. Liver Transpl 21:1365‐1373, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Retracted: Stress corrosion cracking of high strength stainless steels for use as strand in prestressed marine environment concrete construction
Authors: Fernandez J.
Published: April 2015

Stainless steel reinforcement has an elevated chloride threshold and is an attractive alternative for prestressed concrete applications. However, due to the high strength requirements for prestressing strands, concern exists about the possibility of stress corrosion cracking (SCC). A possible candidate high strength alloy for use as prestressed strands in a Florida marine environment is UNS# S24000. Previous testing methods used on other stainless steel alloys were investigated to determine the best way to evaluate the UNS# S24000 as compared to other alloys. The alloys tested were a common austenitic stainless steel with high nickel content UNS # S31603, UNS# S24000, and a duplex stainless steel with high chromium and an additional constituent, molybdenum UNS# S32205. Prior work on high strength stainless steels have tested various alloys of austenitic steels or austenitic and duplex steels, but did not include UNS# S24000. The alloys examined were evaluated at various temperatures in magnesium chloride solutions and in a simulated concrete pore water solution at 60 °C, followed by an anodic polarization regime as an alternative test acceleration method. The results suggest that duplex high‐strength stainless UNS# S32205 performed overall better than the other two alloys. The UNS# S24000 still performed well in simulated concrete pore water and chloride solution tests, and performed better that UNS#S32205 at high temperatures in the tests in the magnesium chloride solution.
Fowler's syndrome of urinary retention: A retrospective study of co‐morbidity
Authors: Hoeritzauer Ingrid , Stone Jon , Fowler Clare , Elneil‐Coker Suzy , Carson Alan , Panicker Jalesh
Published: April 2015

Aims

To study the frequency of pain, psychological, or functional disorders in patients with Fowler's syndrome.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective chart review of patients with a diagnosis of Fowler's syndrome attending the Uro‐Neurology centre at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery between 2009 and 2013 looking at triggering events, physical and psychological comorbidities.

Results

Of 62 patients with clinical and electromyographic diagnosis of Fowler's syndrome, 31 (50%) had unexplained chronic pain syndromes, 12 (19%) of these were taking opiates. Fifteen (24%) had “functional” neurological symptoms. Abdominopelvic surgery with general anesthesia was the leading trigger (n = 21, 35%).

Conclusions

We found high levels of co‐morbidity with patients having some form of pain (50%), a probable functional disorder (24%), or psychological symptoms (31%). There are several potential explanations for this association including the effect of developing an apparently unexplained distressing condition, confounding effect of opiate use or referral bias. The findings suggest a need for prospective systematic study of comorbidity for this disabling condition. Neurourol. Urodynam. 35:601–603, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The complex enigma of autism
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: April 2015

Autism isolates individuals in society, denying them access to the complex world of social interaction. Mark Greener reviews some of the recent research into the genetic, molecular and neuroanatomical basis of ASD's diverse clinical presentation.
Survival of a child with spinal muscular atrophy and acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Wampole Anthony , Schroth Mary , Boriosi Juan
Published: April 2015

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a lower motor neuron anterior horn cell disease, causes significant respiratory morbidity and mortality in children. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) accounts for 1–4% of all Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) admissions. Management outcomes for ARDS in patients with SMA have not been described. We present the case of a 5‐year‐old boy with Type II SMA and ARDS requiring invasive mechanical ventilation. He improved with meticulous management of mechanical ventilation, airway clearance, fluid/nutrition, and sedation/analgesia. He was successfully extubated after 14 days of invasive mechanical ventilation and discharged home after a 20 day hospitalization. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:E29–E31. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Advantages of a wholly Bayesian approach to assessing efficacy in early drug development: a case study
Authors: Walley Rosalind J. , Smith Claire L. , Gale Jeremy D. , Woodward Phil
Published: April 2015

This paper illustrates how the design and statistical analysis of the primary endpoint of a proof‐of‐concept study can be formulated within a Bayesian framework and is motivated by and illustrated with a Pfizer case study in chronic kidney disease. It is shown how decision criteria for success can be formulated, and how the study design can be assessed in relation to these, both using the traditional approach of probability of success conditional on the true treatment difference and also using Bayesian assurance and pre‐posterior probabilities. The case study illustrates how an informative prior on placebo response can have a dramatic effect in reducing sample size, saving time and resource, and we argue that in some cases, it can be considered unethical not to include relevant literature data in this way. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
To adjust or not to adjust for baseline when analyzing repeated binary responses? The case of complete data when treatment comparison at study end is of interest
Authors: Jiang Honghua , Kulkarni Pandurang M. , Mallinckrodt Craig H. , Shurzinske Linda , Molenberghs Geert , Lipkovich Ilya
Published: April 2015

The benefits of adjusting for baseline covariates are not as straightforward with repeated binary responses as with continuous response variables. Therefore, in this study, we compared different methods for analyzing repeated binary data through simulations when the outcome at the study endpoint is of interest. Methods compared included chi‐square, Fisher's exact test, covariate adjusted/unadjusted logistic regression (Adj.logit/Unadj.logit), covariate adjusted/unadjusted generalized estimating equations (Adj.GEE/Unadj.GEE), covariate adjusted/unadjusted generalized linear mixed model (Adj.GLMM/Unadj.GLMM). All these methods preserved the type I error close to the nominal level. Covariate adjusted methods improved power compared with the unadjusted methods because of the increased treatment effect estimates, especially when the correlation between the baseline and outcome was strong, even though there was an apparent increase in standard errors. Results of the Chi‐squared test were identical to those for the unadjusted logistic regression. Fisher's exact test was the most conservative test regarding the type I error rate and also with the lowest power. Without missing data, there was no gain in using a repeated measures approach over a simple logistic regression at the final time point. Analysis of results from five phase III diabetes trials of the same compound was consistent with the simulation findings. Therefore, covariate adjusted analysis is recommended for repeated binary data when the study endpoint is of interest. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antidepressive‐like effect of a Kampo (traditional Japanese) medicine, kososan (Xiang Su San) in a stress‐induced depression‐like mouse model: Proteomic analysis of hypothalamus
Authors: Nagai Takayuki , Hashimoto Ryoko , Okuda Sari M. , Kodera Yoshio , Oh‐Ishi Masamichi , Maeda Tadakazu , Ito Naoki , Hanawa Toshihiko , Kiyohara Hiroaki , Yamada Haruki
Published: April 2015

Aim

A Kampo medicine, kososan (KS), has been used clinically for the treatment of certain depression‐like symptoms. Our previous studies using the stress‐induced depression‐like model mice, showed that oral KS treatment leads to an antidepressive‐like effect via the normalization of dysfunction of hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis. In the present study, proteomic analysis was used to identify brain hypothalamus proteins that are affected by KS treatment.

Methods

KS was orally administered to stress‐induced depression‐like model mice at 1.0 g/kg/day for 9 days, and the hypothalamus was then analyzed using agarose 2‐D gel electrophoresis, followed by mass spectrometry‐based protein identification, and then western blot analysis and immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

The expression of eight proteins was increased or decreased in the hypothalamus of the model mice, but recovered on oral KS treatment. Among them, metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 (mGluR2) and 2′,3′‐cyclic nucleotide 3′‐phosphodiesterase 1 (CNPase1) were identified as depression‐related proteins. Western blot of the hypothalamus confirmed these results and showed that the expression of CNPase2 was opposite to that of CNPase1. On immunohistochemistry, mGluR2 expression in the hypothalamus paraventricular nucleus was downregulated and CNPase2 expression was upregulated in the cerebral fornix in the model mouse, but KS returned them to normal.

Conclusion

mGluR2 and CNPase in the hypothalamus are associated with the antidepressive‐like activity of KS.
Preparing English Learners for Effective Peer Review in the Writers' Workshop
Authors: Kim Soo Hyon
Published: April 2015

English Language Learners (ELLs) often face challenges when participating in peer review activities in writers' workshops. This article identifies some of the potential difficulties that ELL writers may experience, and provides teachers with strategies to address these problems. The author describes a simple three‐step peer review training model that she has successfully used with her students during writers' workshops. The training model involves establishing a shared set of evaluation criteria and expectations before peer review, supporting ELLs in their formulation and articulation of feedback during peer review, and helping ELLs reflect on the peer feedback they received after peer review. By implementing this three‐step peer review training model, teachers can strengthen the positive effects of using peer review during the writers' workshop, while supporting ELL writers who are still developing their proficiency in English.