bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Litter Decomposition of Six Macrophytes in a Eutrophic Shallow Lake (Baiyangdian Lake, China)
Authors: Lan Yan , Cui Baoshan , You Zheyuan , Li Xia , Han Zhen , Zhang Yongtao , Zhang Yu
Published: September 2012

The decomposition of aquatic macrophytes has important consequences for wetlands because it is closely related to organic matter accumulation and nutrient cycling. A field litter bag experiment was undertaken to investigate the decomposition rates of six dominant macrophytes. And the level of nutrient transfer from plant residues to lake water was also researched in Baiyangdian Lake, a typical macrophyte‐dominated lake in the Northern China Plain. Intact standing plants of Phragmites australis, Typha angustifolia, Nelumbo nucifera, Potamogeton pectinatus, Ceratophyllum demersum, and Chara sp. were collected and different plant tissues incubated near sediment traps. Litter bags were collected at days 6, 26, 60, 104, and 140 to follow biomass loss and nutrient release. Decomposition rates of different macrophytes calculated from an exponential model ranged from 0.0028 to 0.0110 day−1. For the same external environmental conditions, decomposition rates were significantly affected by initial litter chemistry. The remaining biomass was positively related to the C/N and C/P ratios and negatively related to the N and P concentrations and the N/P ratio. Both stems and roots showed a lower decomposition rate than the leaves of the same species due to the higher C/N ratio. The nutrient release from plant litter to the lake water was substantial. Over the incubation period, the release of N from the litter represented 18.10–88.79% of the initial content, and the release of P from the litter represented 24.26–92.83% of the initial content.
Optimizing the multimodal approach to pancreatic cyst fluid diagnosis
Authors: Chai Siaw Ming , Herba Karl , Kumarasinghe M. Priyanthi , de Boer W. Bastiaan , Amanuel Benhur , Grieu‐Iacopetta Fabienne , Lim Ee Mun , Segarajasingam Dev , Yusoff Ian , Choo Chris , Frost Felicity
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to develop a triage algorithm to optimize diagnostic yield from cytology, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and v‐Ki‐ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) testing on different components of a single pancreatic cyst fluid specimen. The authors also sought to determine whether cell block supernatant was suitable for CEA and KRAS testing.

METHODS

Fifty‐four pancreatic cysts were triaged according to a volume‐dependent protocol to generate fluid (neat and supernatant) and cell block specimens for cytology, comparative CEA, and KRAS testing. Follow‐up histology, diagnostic cytology, or a combined clinicopathologic interpretation was recorded as the final diagnosis.

RESULTS

There were 26 mucinous cystic lesions and 28 nonmucinous cystic lesions with volumes ranging from 0.3 mL to 55 mL. Testing different components of the specimens (cell block, neat, and/or supernatant) enabled all laboratory investigations to be performed on 50 of 54 cyst fluids (92.6%). Interpretive concordance was observed in 17 of 17 cases (100%) and in 35 of 40 cases (87.5%) that had multiple components tested for CEA and KRAS mutations, respectively. An elevated CEA level (>192 ng/mL) was the most sensitive test for the detection of a mucinous cystic lesion (62.5%) versus KRAS mutation (56%) and “positive” cytology (61.5%). KRAS mutations were identified in 2 of 25 mucinous cystic lesions (8%) in which cytology and CEA levels were not contributory.

CONCLUSIONS

A volume‐based protocol using different components of the specimen was able to optimize diagnostic yield in pancreatic cyst fluids. KRAS mutation testing increased diagnostic yield when combined with cytology and CEA analysis. The current results demonstrated that supernatant is comparable to neat fluid and cell block material for CEA and KRAS testing. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Pancreatic cyst fluid triage
Authors: Pitman Martha Bishop
Published: September 2012

The realization that all neoplastic mucinous cysts have malignant potential has led to intensive evaluation of patients with both symptomatic and asymptomatic pancreatic cysts to determine the nature of the cyst and the possible need for resection. Currently, imaging and cyst fluid analyses offer the best means of accurately assessing pancreatic cysts preoperatively.
Flow cytometry CD45‐negative B‐NHL: A case report of a diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma without extranodal involvement
Authors: Palmeira Carlos , Sousa Maria Emília , Godinho Inês , Pires Ana Marta , Mendes Carlos , Martins Gabriela
Published: September 2012

Background:

The loss of CD45, the leukocyte‐common antigen, has been described in rare cases of large B‐cell lymphoma (LBCL) subtypes with extranodal involvement by immunohistochemical methods. Here we report a case of a patient with LBCL, with no extranodal lesions, which is CD45 negative by flow cytometry (FC) immunophenotyping.

Methods:

Immunophenotyping and DNA content analysis was performed by multiparametric FC on lymph node and bone marrow aspirate obtained from a 65 year old male patient.

Results:

Malignant B‐lymphocytes were CD5‐, CD10+/++, CD11c‐, CD19+, CD20+/++, CD23‐, CD34‐, CD38‐/+, CD45‐, CD79b++/+++, BCL2 overexpressed, FMC7++, IgM++/+++, TdT‐ with Lambda light chain restriction. This pathological cellular population showed near‐diploid DNA content, with a high proliferate rate.

Conclusions:

To our knowledge, we describe the first case of a CD19+ B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma without expression of CD45 detected by FC, and the first case without extranodal involvement presentation. This case is reported not only because it is a rare one but also to raise awareness of FC users of its correct diagnosis. © 2012 International Clinical Cytometry Society
The phenotypic distribution and functional profile of tuberculin‐specific CD4 T‐cells characterizes different stages of TB infection
Authors: Streitz Mathias , Fuhrmann Stephan , Thomas David , Cheek Elizabeth , Nomura Laurel , Maecker Holden , Martus Peter , Aghaeepour Nima , Brinkman Ryan R , Volk Hans‐Dieter , Kern Florian
Published: September 2012

Background:

Recent publications have suggested that altered proportions of functional CD4 T‐cell subsets correlate with active pulmonary TB. Also, CD27‐expression on tuberculin‐activated IFN‐γ+ CD4 T‐cells is known to differ significantly between patients with active pulmonary TB and healthy TB‐unexposed BCG vaccinees. Here, we explore links between CD4 T‐cell phenotype, multiple functional subsets, and control of TB.

Methods:

We examined ex‐vivo overnight tuberculin activated CD4 T‐cells in regards to CD27‐expression and the activation markers, CD154 upregulation, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, IL‐2, and degranulation in 44 individuals, including cases of clinically active pulmonary TB, and hospital staff with prolonged TB exposure, some of whom had latent TB.

Results:

Active pulmonary TB generally showed an excess of TNF‐α+ subsets over IFN‐γ+ subsets, paralleled by decreased CD27 expression on activated IFN‐γ+ or CD154+ CD4 T‐cells. The single subset distinguishing best between active pulmonary TB and high TB exposure was CD154+/TNF‐α+/ IFN‐γ‐/IL‐2‐/degranulation‐ (AUROC 0.90). The ratio between the frequencies of TNF‐α+/IFN‐γ+ CD4 T‐cells was an effective alternative parameter (AUROC 0.87).

Conclusions:

Functional subsets and phenotype of tuberculin induced CD4 T‐cells differ between stages of TB infection. Predominance of TNF‐α+ CD4 T‐cells in active infection suggests an increased effort of the immune system to contain disease. © 2012 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Nearly optimal linear transceiver design for amplify‐and‐forward MIMO multiple‐relay systems under MMSE criterion
Authors: Li Quanzhong , Huang Jiyu , Zhang Guangchi , Qin Jiayin
Published: September 2012

In this paper, we consider amplify‐and‐forward multiple‐input multiple‐output multiple‐relay systems, where all the nodes have multiple antennas. For enhancing link reliability, we address the problem of designing optimal linear transceiver to minimize the mean squared error (MSE) of symbol estimations subject to the total relay transmit power constraint. This problem is highly complex and has not been solved in the literature. We first simplify this optimization problem to one that takes a singular value vector and a unitary matrix as optimization variables. Then based on the analyses for the simplified problem, we develop an iterative algorithm consisting of one boundary optimization and one unitary matrix constrained optimization. We show analytically that the proposed iterative algorithm always converges, and the MSE is monotonically decreasing from one iteration to the next. Finally, numerical results demonstrate the nearly optimal performance of the proposed scheme. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of Various Sized CuInS2 Quantum Dots and Their Photovoltaic Properties as Sensitizers for TiO2 Photoanodes
Authors: Peng Zhuoyin , Liu Yueli , Shu Wei , Chen Keqiang , Chen Wen
Published: September 2012

Understanding the various size effects of CuInS2 quantum dots is very important for improving the performance of quantum‐dot‐sensitized solar cells. In this work, CuInS2 quantum dots with sizes ranging from 2 to 8 nm have been synthesized by a simple thermolysis method and a ligand‐exchange process. The quantum dots as sensitizers were uniformly attached to the surface of TiO2 nanoparticle films capped with 3‐mercaptopropionic acid to form sensitized solar cells. Various sized CuInS2 quantum dots and sensitized TiO2 photoanodes were studied by XRD, TEM, UV/Vis, and PL spectroscopy. It was found that the CuInS2 quantum dots were successfully adsorbed on to the TiO2 nanoparticle films, and TiO2 photoanodes sensitized with 3.5 nm CuInS2 quantum dots have the highest optical absorption and best photovoltaic conversion efficiency of 0.72 % with a short circuit current density of 2.02 mA/cm2 and a voltage of 0.515 V under AM 1.5 illumination.
Cyclodextrin Anchoring on Magnetic Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Modified with Phosphonic Linkers
Authors: Tudisco Cristina , Oliveri Valentina , Cantarella Maria , Vecchio Graziella , Condorelli Guglielmo G.
Published: September 2012

Magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (MNPs) have been covalently modified with β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) cavities by adopting a two‐step anchoring route based on particle prefunctionalization with a phosphonic monolayer, which acts as a covalent linker between the MNPs and β‐CD. Particular attention has been devoted to the study of the functionalization process by adopting bifunctional phosphonic linkers to investigate the efficiency of the anchoring group (phosphonic acid or ester) and the role of a second functional group. The grafting process of the phosphonic linkers has been monitored by using X‐ray photoelectron and FTIR spectroscopy. β‐CD has then been successfully anchored on MNPs prefunctionalized with (3‐aminopropyl)phosphonic acid. The ability of β‐CD‐functionalized nanoparticles to carry and slowly release some drugs has been tested by adopting the anti‐inflammatory drug diclofenac sodium salt as a model.
Late‐Stage C–H Bond Arylation of Spirocyclic σ1 Ligands for Analysis of Complementary σ1 Receptor Surface
Authors: Meyer Christina , Schepmann Dirk , Yanagisawa Shuichi , Yamaguchi Junichiro , Itami Kenichiro , Wünsch Bernhard
Published: September 2012

Direct C–H bond arylation in the α‐ and β‐positions of spirocyclic thiophenes containing various functional groups (amine, ether, acetal, lactone) was accomplished. Selective phenylation in the α‐position of the thiophene ring was achieved by using the catalytic system PdCl2/bipy/Ag2CO3. The introduction of phenyl moieties to the β‐position was performed with the catalytic system PdCl2/P[OCH(CF3)2]3/Ag2CO3. Even the five‐membered lactone 10 with an electron‐withdrawing carbonyl moiety directly attached to the thiophene ring was arylated. Spirocyclic thiophenes substituted with a phenyl moiety in position A (top position) or B (left position) display low nanomolar σ1 affinities (e.g., 4a: Ki = 1.6 nM; 5a: Ki = 2.4 nM), indicating an additional hydrophobic pocket on the complementary σ1 receptor protein. A phenyl moiety in position C (at the bottom position) is not tolerated by the σ1 receptor (e.g., 12: Ki = 483 nM). However, an additional phenyl moiety in position A is able to compensate at least partially the unfavorable effects of the phenyl moiety in position C.
Voltage‐driven transport of ions and DNA through nanocapillaries
Authors: Steinbock Lorenz J. , Lucas Alex , Otto Oliver , Keyser Ulrich F.
Published: September 2012

We study the effect of salt concentration on the ionic conductance and translocation of single DNA molecules through nanocapillaries made out of quartz glass. DNA translocation experiments were performed in aqueous solution for concentrations of KCl between 10 mM and 2 M while ion conductance was characterized from 1 mM to 2 M KCl concentration. Here, we develop a model for the conductance of conical nanocapillaries taking into consideration the surface charge of the quartz glass. We demonstrate that the conductance of our nanocapillaries shows similar behavior to silicon oxide nanopores at low and high KCl concentrations. Finally, we show that DNA translocations in high KCl concentrations (400 mM–2 M) cause a reduction in the ionic current. In contrast, DNA translocations at low KCl concentrations (10–300 mM) lead to increases in the ionic current. Our new results, which until now have not been shown for nanocapillaries, can be well understood with an adapted model.
Analysis and Optimal Design for Association Studies Using Next‐Generation Sequencing With Case‐Control Pools
Authors: Liang Wei E. , Thomas Duncan C. , Conti David V.
Published: September 2012

With its potential to discover a much greater amount of genetic variation, next‐generation sequencing is fast becoming an emergent tool for genetic association studies. However, the cost of sequencing all individuals in a large‐scale population study is still high in comparison to most alternative genotyping options. While the ability to identify individual‐level data is lost (without bar‐coding), sequencing pooled samples can substantially lower costs without compromising the power to detect significant associations. We propose a hierarchical Bayesian model that estimates the association of each variant using pools of cases and controls, accounting for the variation in read depth across pools and sequencing error. To investigate the performance of our method across a range of number of pools, number of individuals within each pool, and average coverage, we undertook extensive simulations varying effect sizes, minor allele frequencies, and sequencing error rates. In general, the number of pools and pool size have dramatic effects on power while the total depth of coverage per pool has only a moderate impact. This information can guide the selection of a study design that maximizes power subject to cost, sample size, or other laboratory constraints. We provide an R package (hiPOD: hierarchical Pooled Optimal Design) to find the optimal design, allowing the user to specify a cost function, cost, and sample size limitations, and distributions of effect size, minor allele frequency, and sequencing error rate.
QT dispersion in mild cognitive impairment: a possible tool for predicting the risk of progression to dementia?
Authors: Coppola Ludovico , Mastrolorenzo Luigia , Coppola Antonino , De Biase Maria , Adamo Giovanna , Forte Raffaele , Fiorente Francesca , Orlando Rosanna , Caturano Michele , Cioffi Arcangelo , Riccardi Angela
Published: September 2012

Objective

The aim of this research was to investigate relationships between cognitive function and non‐invasive, repeatable cardiac parameters in elderly subjects suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Two hundred and twenty‐four community‐living elderly subjects, 31 AD patients, 77 MCI patients, and 116 cognitively normal subjects (CNS), were evaluated for cognitive abilities (Mini Mental State Examination score (MMSE)) and for electrocardiographic [corrected heart rate QT interval dispersion (QTcD)] and echocardiographic [Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)] parameters.

Results

Mean values of LVEF were not significantly different between the three groups; QTcD mean values were significantly lower in CNS group than in subjects with MCI and AD. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation test, carried out in the three study groups, showed a significant inverse correlation between QTcD and MMSE score (r = −0.357; p < 0.01) in the group of MCI patients, only. In multivariable‐adjusted linear regression tests, QTcD (p = 0.030) and education (p = 0.021) are associated with MMSE score in MCI group. Only the parameter of education appears to predict MMSE in CNS group; none of these parameters appear to predict MMSE in the group of patients with AD.

Conclusion

The association between QTcD and MMSE requires cautious interpretation and further extensive investigation. However, if confirmed by longitudinal studies, the finding could play a role in the management of the subjects with MCI. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solute Carrier Family 2 Member 1 Is Involved in the Development of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Vazquez-Chantada Mercedes , Gonzalez-Lahera Aintzane , Martinez-Arranz Ibon , Garcia-Monzon Carmelo , Regueiro Manuela M. , Garcia-Rodriguez Juan L. , Schlangen Karin A. , Mendibil Iñaki , Rodriguez-Ezpeleta Naiara , Lozano Juan J. , Banasik Karina , Justesen Johanne M. , Joergensen Torben , Witte Daniel R. , Lauritzen Torsten , Hansen Torben , Pedersen Oluf , Veyrie Nicolas , Clement Karine , Tordjman Joan , Tran Albert , Le Marchand-Brustel Yannik , Buque Xabier , Aspichueta Patricia , Echevarria-Uraga Jose J. , Martin-Duce Antonio , Caballeria Joan , Gual Philippe , Castro Azucena , Mato Jose M. , Martinez-Chantar Maria L. , Aransay Ana M.
Published: September 2012

Susceptibility to develop nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has genetic bases, but the associated variants are uncertain. The aim of the present study was to identify genetic variants that could help to prognose and further understand the genetics and development of NAFLD. Allele frequencies of 3,072 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 92 genes were characterized in 69 NAFLD patients and 217 healthy individuals. The markers that showed significant allele-frequency differences in the pilot groups were subsequently studied in 451 NAFLD patients and 304 healthy controls. Besides this, 4,414 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) cases and 4,567 controls were genotyped. Liver expression of the associated gene was measured and the effect of its potential role was studied by silencing the gene

in vitro

. Whole genome expression, oxidative stress (OS), and the consequences of oleic acid (OA)-enriched medium on lipid accumulation in si

SLC2A1

-THLE2 cells were studied by gene-expression analysis, dihydroethidium staining, BODIPY, and quantification of intracellular triglyceride content, respectively. Several SNPs of

SLC2A1

(solute carrier family 2 [facilitated glucose transporter] member 1) showed association with NAFLD, but not with T2DM, being the haplotype containing the minor allele of

SLC2A1

sequence related to the susceptibility to develop NAFLD. Gene-expression analysis demonstrated a significant down-regulation of

SLC2A1

in NAFLD livers. Enrichment functional analyses of transcriptome profiles drove us to demonstrate that

in vitro

silencing of

SLC2A1

induces an increased OS activity and a higher lipid accumulation under OA treatment.

Conclusions:

Genetic variants of

SLC2A1

are associated with NAFLD, and

in vitro

down-regulation of this gene promotes lipid accumulation. Moreover, the oxidative response detected in si

SLC2A1

-THLE2 cells corroborated the antioxidant properties previously related to this gene and linked the most representative clinical characteristics of NAFLD patients: oxidative injury and increased lipid storage.
The Employee Suggestion System: A New Approach Using Latent Semantic Analysis
Authors: Marksberry Phillip , Church Joshua , Schmidt Michael
Published: September 2012

Employee suggestion systems are often used as a way to improve participation from members of the organization to help solve problems that cannot be solved through traditional organizational practices. In the government sector, employee involvement programs are the most difficult to implement mainly because management regularly changes with new administration and these changes bring about many short‐term management practices and systems. Toyota's approach to employee suggestion programs has been widely benchmarked and studied, yet there is little research to show that these practices can be applied or are successful in the public sector. This work uses a statistical data‐mining technique to compare which types of human resource management practices are prevalent in employee suggestion programs at Toyota and a target government organization. This work shows that Toyota emphasizes organization‐centered factors to stimulate employee participation in solving small problems that relate to an employee's job. On the contrary, government organizations tend to emphasize employee factors that make conditions right for employees to make larger improvements in their jobs that lead to improvements outside their work areas. Findings suggest that Toyota's approach to employee suggestion programs is not a way to weaken management's obligation to perform problem solving, but instead is another medium to highlight problems that do not require management's intervention. These new insights and others provide an increased understanding of employee suggestion programs in the public sector that are unique to manufacturing. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sensitivity of hydrological ensemble forecasts to different sources and temporal resolutions of probabilistic quantitative precipitation forecasts: flash flood case studies in the Cévennes‐Vivarais region (Southern France)
Authors: Marty R. , Zin I. , Obled Ch.
Published: September 2012

This article analyses the performance of an integrated hydrological ensemble prediction system adapted to small to mid‐sized catchments (100–600 km2) situated in the Cévennes‐Vivarais region (Southern France) and characterized by short lag times (3–12 h). In this framework, flood forecasts need hourly Probabilistic Quantitative Precipitation Forecasts (PQPF) so as to provide early warning with 24–72 h of anticipation. Here, two sources of PQPF at daily and subdaily (6 h) meteorological time steps are considered: Ensemble Prediction Systems from the European Centre for Medium‐range Weather Forecast (ECMWF) and analogy‐based PQPF provided in real‐time at the Laboratoire d'étude des Transferts en Hydrologie et Environnement. The two PQPF are firstly disaggregated to respect the required hydrological hourly time step, through either the use of a stochastic rainfall generator or the application of a multimodel approach. Then, disaggregated PQPF are used as input to a hydrological model, which is called TOPSIMPL, to provide hourly ensemble discharge forecasts up to 48 h ahead. Illustration and evaluation of ensemble discharge forecasts issued in near real‐time conditions are given for some recently observed flash flood events. It is shown that hourly discharge forecasts are first‐order conditioned by the accuracy of PQPF at daily or subdaily time step. Six‐hour ensemble prediction systems correctly reproduce the rainfall temporal dynamics, whereas daily analogy‐based PQPF are less underdispersive in terms of rainfall amounts. As a result, the merging of the two sources of PQPF substantially increases the performance of discharge forecasts, the contribution of a more sophisticated hourly rainfall generator becoming marginal. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An automated algorithm for river ice monitoring over the Susquehanna River using the MODIS data
Authors: Chaouch Naira , Temimi Marouane , Romanov Peter , Cabrera Reggina , McKillop George , Khanbilvardi Reza
Published: September 2012

Reliable and prompt information on river ice condition and extent is needed to make accurate hydrological forecasts to predict ice jams breakups and issue timely flood warnings. This study presents a technique to detect and monitor river ice using observations from the MODIS instrument onboard the Terra satellite. The technique incorporates a threshold‐based decision tree image classification algorithm to process MODIS data and to determine the extent of ice. To differentiate between ice‐covered and ice‐free pixels within the riverbed, the algorithm combines observations in the visible and near‐infrared spectral bands. The developed technique presents the core of the MODIS‐based river ice mapping system, which has been developed to support National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NWS's operations. The system has been tested over the Susquehanna River in northeastern USA, where ice jam events leading to spring floods are a frequent occurrence. The automated algorithm generates three products: daily ice maps, weekly composite ice maps and running cloud‐free composite ice maps. The performance of the system was evaluated over nine winter seasons. The analysis of the derived products has revealed their good agreement with the aerial photography and with in situ observations‐based ice charts. The probability of ice detection determined from the comparison of the product with the high‐resolution Landsat imagery was equal to 91%. A consistent inverse relationship was found between the river discharge and the ice extent. The correlation between the discharge and the ice extent as determined from the weekly composite product reached 0.75. The developed CREST River Ice Observation System has been implemented at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration–Cooperative Remote Sensing Science and Technology Center as an operational Web tool allowing end users and forecasters to assess ice conditions on the river. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk of germ cell testicular cancer according to origin: A migrant cohort study in 1,100,000 Israeli men
Authors: Levine Hagai , Afek Arnon , Shamiss Ari , Derazne Estela , Tzur Dorit , Zavdy Ofir , Barchana Micha , Kark Jeremy D.
Published: September 2012

Testicular cancer incidence is highest among men of northern European ancestry and lowest among men of Asian/African descent. We conducted a large‐scale migrant cohort study to assess origin and migrant generation as predictors of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), controlling for possible confounders. Data on 1,092,373 Jewish Israeli males, who underwent a general health examination prior to compulsory military service at ages 16–19 between the years 1967–2005, were linked to Israel National Cancer Registry to obtain incident TGCTs up to 2006. Cox proportional hazards was used to model time to event. Overall, 1,001 incident cases (534 seminoma and 467 nonseminoma) were detected during 19.2 million person‐years of follow‐up. Origin was a strong independent predictor of TGCTs with remarkably low incidence for North African‐born (HR = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.04–0.21) and Asian‐born (HR = 0.35, 0.20–0.62), while intermediate for Israeli‐born of North African origin (HR = 0.48, 0.40–0.58) and Asian origin (HR = 0.56, 0.47–0.66), compared to European origin. A comparison of Israeli born of North African and Asian origin with North African and Asian‐born yielded a HR of 2.31 (1.36–3.93). Significant risk factors controlled for were year of birth, years of education and height. Findings persisted when analyses were stratified by histologic subtypes of TGCTs. The findings of lower rates of TGCTs among men born in North Africa and Asia compared to European ancestry, but a steep increase in next generation migrants, particularly among the Israeli‐born migrants from North Africa, provide clues to direct further research on the role of modern lifestyle and environment in the etiology of TGCTs.
Using the Constructs Multifinality, Work Hope, and Possible Selves With Urban Minority Youth
Authors: Park‐Taylor Jennie , Vargas Angela
Published: September 2012

This article describes and highlights the potential contributions that the constructs multifinality, work hope, and possible selves make for designing career counseling interventions and for better understanding possible career‐related factors associated with academic engagement and achievement among urban minority youth. Multifinality may serve as a superordinate orientation because it conceptualizes development as discontinuous and relatively plastic, allowing for youth deemed at risk to follow more hopeful pathways. Work hope and possible selves emphasize the utility of providing urban minority youth with space to answer questions related to what they might achieve and do in the future and who they might become. Together, multifinality, work hope, and possible selves provide a hopeful conceptual framework for career researchers and practitioners.
Racism‐Related Stress and Ethnic Identity as Determinants of African American College Students' Career Aspirations
Authors: Tovar‐Murray Darrick , Jenifer Ericka S. , Andrusyk Jara , D'Angelo Ryan , King Tia
Published: September 2012

Drawing primarily on the construct of psychological buffer, the purpose of this study was to explore the extent to which racism‐related stress and ethnic identity are determinants of career aspirations. A total of 163 African American college students from a predominately White Midwestern university participated in the study. A moderation regression analysis was conducted. Results indicate that ethnic identity interacted with racism‐related stress (p= .04) to predict career aspirations. In other words, as racism‐related stress increases in the context of low identity development, career aspirations decrease. Conversely, as perceived racism increases in the context of high identity development, career aspirations increase. Implications for professionals and future research in the field of career counseling are discussed.
Platycodin D induces anoikis and caspase‐mediated apoptosis via p38 MAPK in AGS human gastric cancer cells
Authors: Chun Jaemoo , Joo Eun Ji , Kang Minseok , Kim Yeong Shik
Published: September 2012

Mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) cascades play important roles in cell proliferation, death, and differentiation in response to external stimuli. However, the precise role of MAPKs in platycodin D (PD)‐induced cytotoxicity remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effect of PD and its underlying mechanism on AGS human gastric cancer cells. PD significantly inhibited cell proliferation and induced anoikis, which is a form of apoptosis in which cells detach from the substrate. It showed phosphatidylserine externalization, DNA fragmentation, increase of sub‐G1 phase, and activation of caspases in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. This apoptosis has been associated with the extrinsic pathway via Fas‐L and the intrinsic pathway via mitochondrial Bcl‐2 family members. Moreover, PD led to the phosphorylation of stresses‐activated protein kinases such as JNK and p38, followed by the activation of AP‐1. However, pretreatment with SB203580 (a p38 specific inhibitor) suppressed PD‐induced p38 and AP‐1 activation, and subsequently attenuated the PD‐induced apoptosis in AGS cells. These results suggest that p38 activation is responsible for PD‐induced apoptosis in AGS cells and PD might be useful for the development as the anticancer agent of gastric cancer. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 456–470, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of the Helicobacter pylori‐Induced inflammatory response in the development of gastric cancer
Authors: Lamb Acacia , Chen Lin‐Feng
Published: September 2012

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection causes chronic gastritis and peptic ulceration and is the strongest risk factor for the development of gastric cancer. The pathogenesis of H. pylori is believed to be associated with infection‐initiated chronic gastritis, which is characterized by enhanced expression of many inflammatory genes. H. pylori utilizes various virulence factors, targeting different cellular proteins, to modulate the host inflammatory response. In this review, we explore the many different ways by which H. pylori initiates inflammation, leveling many “hits” on the gastric mucosa which can lead to the development of cancer. We also discuss some recent findings in understanding the pathogen‐host interactions and the role of transcription factor NF‐κB in H. pylori‐induced inflammation. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 491–497, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Children, Technology, Problems, and Preferences
Authors: Farber Barry A. , Shafron Gavin , Hamadani Jaleh , Wald Emily , Nitzburg George
Published: September 2012

Increasingly, young people are using various forms of technology in the service of communicating with others, and many have noted the possibility of various dire consequences of this phenomenon, including sexting, cyberbullying, online harassment, and Internet addiction. In our own survey of over 300 adolescents, we found that texting and face‐to‐face communication were considered the most “convenient” forms of communication, while face‐to‐face communication and phone conversations were perceived as most likely to lead to “feeling understood” and “feeling intimate.” Face‐to‐face communication and texting were perceived as most likely to result in feeling regret for sharing too much information. By choosing to communicate through technology, many young people, including our patients, can continue to be social and, at the same time, keep a somewhat safer emotional distance.
Investigating the effects of metals on phenol oxidase‐producing nitrogen‐fixing Azotobacter chroococcum
Authors: Herter Susanne , Schmidt Marlen , Thompson Mark L. , Mikolasch Annett , Schauer Frieder
Published: September 2012

Expression of phenol oxidases (PO) in bacteria is often observed during physiological and morphological changes; in the nitrogen‐fixing strain Azotobacter chroococcum SBUG 1484, it is accompanied by the formation of encysted cells and melanin. Herein, we studied the effects of copper and the depletion of the nitrogenase‐relevant metals molybdenum and iron on physiological characteristics such as culture pigmentation, release of ortho‐dihydroxylated melanin precursors, and expression of PO activity in A. chroococcum. Biomass production and melanogenic appearance were directly affected by the depletion of either iron or molybdenum, or in the absence of both metals. Only nitrogen‐fixing cells growing in the presence of both metals and cultures supplemented with iron (molybdenum starved) showed the ability to produce an intensively brown‐black melanin pigment typically associated with A. chroococcum. Accordingly, PO production was only detected in the presence of both metals and in iron‐supplemented cultures starved of molybdenum. The total amount of catecholate siderophores produced by nitrogen‐fixing melanogenic cells was considerably higher than in cultures starved of metal ions. Induction of enhanced PO activity was stimulated by additional copper sulfate, possibly related to cellular processes involved in the detoxification of this particular metal, and revealed distinct release of the ortho‐dihydroxylated melanin precursors catechol and 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid.
A 2,3‐butanediol dehydrogenase from Paenibacillus polymyxaZJ‐9 for mainly producing R,R‐2,3‐butanediol: Purification, characterization and cloning
Authors: Gao Jian , Yang Huan‐Huan , Feng Xiao‐Hai , Li Sha , Xu Hong
Published: September 2012

A 2,3‐butanediol dehydrogenase (BDH) from Paenibacillus polymyxa ZJ‐9 was purified to homogeneity via fractional ammonium sulfate precipitation, followed by two steps of anion‐exchange chromatography using DEAE‐Sepharose and Source 15Q, obtaining a 35‐fold increase in specific activity and 34.9% yield. The molecular weights of the purified BDH subunit and holoenzyme were 44.5 and 90.0 kDa, respectively, as detected via SDS‐PAGE and gel filtration chromatography. These results were significantly different from those of other reported BDHs. Substrate specificity experiments showed that the enzyme could function preferentially as a reductase rather than as a dehydrogenase, and was mainly responsible for the reduction of R‐acetoin to R,R‐2,3‐butanediol. Gene cloning, sequencing, and expression experiments further demonstrate that this enzyme was a new type of BDH.
Simultaneous production of alkaline lipase and protease by antibiotic and heavy metal tolerantPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Bisht Deepali , Yadav Santosh Kumar , Gautam Pallavi , Darmwal Nandan Singh
Published: September 2012

An efficient bacterial strain capable of simultaneous production of lipase and protease in a single production medium was isolated. Thirty six bacterial strains, isolated from diverse habitats, were screened for their lipolytic and proteolytic activity. Of these, only one bacterial strain was found to be lipase and protease producer. The 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed that strain (NSD‐09) was in close identity toPseudomonas aeruginosa. The maximum lipase (221.4 U/ml) and protease (187.9 U/ml) activities were obtained after 28 and 24 h of incubation, respectively at pH 9.0 and 37 °C. Castor oil and wheat bran were found to be the best substrate for lipase and protease production, respectively. The strain also exhibited high tolerance to lead (1450 µg/ml) and chromium (1000 µg/ml) in agar plates. It also showed tolerance to other heavy metals, such as Co+2, Zn+2, Hg+2, Ni+2and Cd+2. Therefore, this strain has scope for tailing bioremediation. Presumably, this is the first attempt onP. aeruginosato explore its potential for both industrial and environmental applications.
Molecular cloning and functional characterization of a Δ6‐fatty acid desaturase gene from Rhizopus oryzae
Authors: Zhu Yu , Zhang Bi‐Bo
Published: September 2012

The objective was to screen for and isolate a novel enzyme with the specific activity of a Δ6‐fatty acid desaturase from Rhizopus oryzae. In this study, R. oryzae was identified as a novel fungal species that produces large amounts of γ‐linolenic acid. A full‐length cDNA, designated here as RoD6D, with high homology to fungal Δ6‐fatty acid desaturase genes was isolated from R. oryzae by using the rapid amplification of cDNA ends method. It had an open reading frame of 1176 bp encoding a deduced polypeptide of 391 amino acids. Bioinformatics analysis characterized the putative RoD6D protein as a typical membrane‐bound desaturase, including three conserved histidine‐rich motifs, a hydropathy profile, and a cytochrome b5‐like domain in the N terminus. When the coding sequence was expressed in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain INVScl, the encoded product of RoD6D exhibited Δ6‐fatty acid desaturase activity that led to the accumulation of γ‐linolenic acid. The corresponding genomic sequence of RoD6D was 1565 bp in length, with five introns. This is the first report on the characterization and gene cloning of a Δ6‐fatty acid desaturase of R. oryzae from Douchi.
Background ozone level in the Sydney basin: assessment and trend analysis
Authors: Duc Hiep , Azzi Merched , Wahid Herman , Ha Q. P.
Published: September 2012

It has been recognized that the background ozone concentration in urban areas is changing over the years. This article aims to determine the background ozone level (BOL) using ambient air quality data measurements collected at some monitoring stations in the Sydney basin, Australia. A definition of background ozone in the context of the Sydney region is proposed. With this definition, it is possible to estimate the background ozone using ambient measurements of ozone and its precursors. The trend of the BOL is also estimated from the temporal ambient monitoring records as of early 1998‐2005. These ozone level changes at different monitoring stations are assessed using the linear regression method. The results are shown to vary between different monitoring sites. This demonstrates that the local conditions at each site are important in determining as to whether an air quality management plan for reducing the ozone level to below the exceedance level is effective and achievable or not. Furthermore, the results obtained are compared with those obtained by the Clapp–Jenkin method, which is based on the relationship between oxidant and nitrogen oxides, assuming a stationary state of photochemical smog function.
Long intergenic non‐coding RNA TUG1 is overexpressed in urothelial carcinoma of the bladder
Authors: Han Yonghua , Liu Yuchen , Gui Yaoting , Cai Zhiming
Published: September 2012

Background and Objectives

Long intergenic non‐coding RNAs (lincRNAs) are a class of non‐coding RNAs that regulate gene expression via chromatin reprogramming. Taurine Up‐regulated Gene 1 (TUG1) is a lincRNA that is associated with chromatin‐modifying complexes and plays roles in gene regulation. In this study, we determined the expression patterns of TUG1 and the cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induced by silencing TUG1 in urothelial carcinoma of the bladder.

Methods

The expression levels of TUG1 were determined using Real‐Time qPCR in a total of 44 patients with bladder urothelial carcinomas. Bladder urothelial carcinoma T24 and 5637 cells were transfected with TUG1 siRNA or negative control siRNA. Cell proliferation was evaluated using MTT assay. Apoptosis was determined using ELISA assay.

Results

TUG1 was up‐regulated in bladder urothelial carcinoma compared to paired normal urothelium. High TUG1 expression levels were associated with high grade and stage carcinomas. Cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction were observed in TUG1 siRNA‐transfected bladder urothelial carcinoma T24 and 5637 cells.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that lincRNA TUG1 is emerging as a novel player in the disease state of bladder urothelial carcinoma. TUG1 may have potential roles as a biomarker and/or a therapeutic target in bladder urothelial carcinoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:555–559. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Advances in chromatographic supports for pharmaceutical‐grade plasmid DNA purification
Authors: Sousa Ângela , Sousa Fani , Queiroz João A.
Published: September 2012

Chromatographic technology is undoubtedly one of the most diverse and powerful purification methods for downstream process applications. The diversity and quantity of biomolecules present in crude extracts as well as the similarities between impurities and the target biomolecule are considered the critical challenges in the extraction and purification steps. Thus, it is important to optimize the purification protocol to achieve maximum recovery of the target sample. The structure of chromatographic supports has been continuously developed to afford rapid and efficient separations, as well as, the application of specific ligands to improve the selectivity for the target molecule. The present review discusses the structural progress and evolution of the chromatographic supports that have been used for plasmid DNA purification. Nowadays, the most desirable form of plasmid for gene therapy and DNA vaccination is the supercoiled isoform, due to its stability and higher transfection efficiency over other plasmid topologies. However, the main challenge is not only to produce high quantities of supercoiled plasmid DNA but also to preserve its quality, meeting the strict requirements recommended by the regulatory agencies. Therefore, this review will focus on the chemical and structural classification of the different media and on some of the specific ligands used for plasmid DNA bioseparation.
Acute mastoiditis: The role of imaging for identifying intracranial complications
Authors: Luntz Michal , Bartal Keren , Brodsky Alexander , Shihada Rabia
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Brain CT is performed in patients presenting with acute mastoiditis (AM) to identify intracranial complications (ICC). Recently, however, the need for CT scans in such patients has been questioned owing to concerns regarding long‐term effects of brain irradiation, with some clinicians claiming that the decision to scan should be based on a patient's clinical presentation. This study was aimed at characterizing the typical clinical presentation of patients who already have ICCs when diagnosed with AM, and to compare it to that of AM patients presenting without ICCs.

Study Design:

Prospective case series.

Methods:

All patients hospitalized with AM between July 1997 and December 2009 in an otologic tertiary referral center were divided into those with and those without ICCs on presentation. Prereferral clinical characteristics and the signs, symptoms, and inflammatory indexes at presentation were compared between the two groups.

Results:

Of 71 patients presenting with AM, 10 had at least one ICC (sigmoid sinus thrombosis [nine patients], perisinus empyema [five patients], subdural abscess [one patient], and epidural abscess [one patient]). Patients with and without ICCs did not differ regarding most clinical characteristics or presenting signs and symptoms. None presented with neurological signs or cranial nerve deficits.

Conclusions:

It is not possible to define an evidence‐based index of suspicion for ICCs in patients with AM. Diagnostic imaging at presentation accordingly remains mandatory.
THE INFLUENCE OF BLOWING SOIL TRAPPED BY SHRUBS ON FERTILITY IN TABERNAS DISTRICT (SE SPAIN)
Authors: Lozano F. J. , Soriano M. , Martínez S. , Asensio C.
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this study is to relate soil properties affected by the deposit of materials by the wind to the percentage of vegetation surface that facilitates their accumulation. To do this, we applied artificial wind and compared its effects to natural conditions by making use of the ‘fertility islands’ generated by some species of bushes under their canopies in semiarid environments and, which according to many publications, modify soil characteristics substantially.

Two very common species in our flat semiarid study area, Hammada articulata and Artemisia barrelieri, were chosen for comparison. Soil was sampled in gaps between shrubs and under canopies. Some shrubs were subjected to extra wind, whereas others were kept under natural conditions. At the end of this first stage, the islands under the canopies were sampled again, and any differences found in the data were studied. Increased retention of material affects the fertility of soils. Thus, we observed, for example, an increase in biomass carbon showing greater biological activity. Finally, we performed a statistical analysis, which resolved our hypothesis on the influence of the percentage of plant surface on the soil parameters. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.